Welcome to Locals Only. In this series, we're tapping notable locals in the style space to share a tight list of their top recommendations of what to see, eat, and shop in their home city. They'll share off-the-radar recs that you won't find in your average guidebook, resulting in digestible mini guides revealing where the city's most fashionable residents are actually hanging out.
When I think about Lagos, Nigeria, my mind immediately goes to Afrobeat. Everyone I know who visits the vibrant city tells tales of dancing all night and spending the next day enjoying the city's incredible cuisine. When it comes to fashion, it feels like the city is the capital of maximalism. Bright colors and eye-catching designs are basically required among the fashion crowd. With all this in mind, I just had to learn more.
Andrea Iyamah just opened a location on Bleecker Street, and while I've seen many stores pop up in West Village lately, this one definitely had me the most excited. The brand's designs include 3D elements, incredibly flattering silhouettes, and a color scheme that makes me halt every time I see the window display. The experience the brand created only has me wanting more, so I had to stop in one day and ask for more details about Iyamah's life in Lagos, which led to this article coming to life. Today, Iyamah is sharing her guide to all of the hot spots that her birthplace and current home has to offer, from undiscovered restaurants to boutiques with wondrous architecture. Beware—this is a story that might tempt you into booking a flight.
Where are you originally from, and how long have you lived in this city?
I was Born in Lagos and moved to Canada when I was 17 for school, after which I moved back to Lagos. I have lived in Lagos for as long as I can remember, except for the few years spent in Canada.
How has Lagos influenced your fashion designs and the story of your brand?
Lagos is a very energetic, vibrant place. This energy and vibrancy can be seen in our pieces through the colors and prints. The weather, the culture, the vibrant art scene is infused in our brand heritage. We want our customers to embark on a journey of cultural discovery each time they wear our piece.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I wake up at 5 a.m., pray and meditate, and then work out. I love spinning and a morning run. Breakfast is about 9 a.m., and work starts at 9:30 a.m. I get into the office, take meetings, connect with the team, and I usually wrap up work at 7:30 p.m., spend time with my husband, have dinner, and go to bed at 10 p.m. with music.
I know that you love to travel. When you're away, what do you miss the most about Lagos?
I miss the weather. We already have great weather in Lagos, except during the rainy season. Lagos is also very energetic. It motivates you even when you are feeling low. There is always something to do.
Do you participate in Detty December? Can you tell me what that looks like?
I am not much of a party girl, but I save my partying for December. The calm and equally fun side of Lagos, I think, is in October/November. This is when the art and fashion season kicks off. … Detty December, as it is fondly known, is when people like to go out—Lagos is a city that doesn't sleep, and you really see that during this month.
What to Pack
One thing you'll learn immediately if you begin to research Lagos is that it's quite the global city. Influences come in from every continent, and if you're craving it, there's a restaurant for that—Slow Lagos would be our first stop. The brasserie combines Latin American, Central American, and West African flair. If you find Iyamah there, just know she's ordering the kale salad immediately.
Every time I've spoken to someone about Lagos, they've mentioned Alára. The concept store's design would make any architect drool. Iyamah told me that this is the place she goes to find one-of-a-kind pieces, and I was instantly sold. I'll touch on this later, but when you're done shopping, you can float over to a restaurant that's just as enticing as the clothing.
If you're lucky enough to score a visit with Iyamah, she'll take you out to one of her favorite galleries, Art Twenty One. The space is dedicated to spotlighting local artists and some of the greatest modern pieces you can imagine. There's always something new here to get inspired by.
Pura Vida Beach House is one of Iyamah's favorite places to hang out on the weekends. If you're visiting Lagos as a tourist, this is the perfect place to stay if you're hoping to be near the ocean. This location is dedicated to curating a peaceful environment that you won't be able to get enough of.
WWW Travels Tip: The traffic can be quite intense, so make sure you leave enough time to get around, especially if you are thinking of going to the beach.
If you want to order like Iyamah, go to Z Kitchen and have a sip of the zobotini. Her preference for this cocktail location comes from the fact that she is "not too keen on sweet drinks, so it's the perfect blend." If you have the time to stay for a bit, expect to find delicious Lebanese cuisine.
Another boutique that truly looks like a work of art from the outside in, Temple Muse is a must for luxury shoppers and gift givers. Iyamah told me that "they have got the best collection of gifts with authentic character," but it's the list of designer names that really caught my eye. From all-time favorites to new discoveries, there are so many options to choose from.
If you like a night out, you simply can't miss ZaZa. With good music and even better live performances, this is a nightclub that offers quite the array of experiences.
WWW Travels Tip: ZaZa gets really busy over the weekends and also during holidays. It's super difficult to go anywhere on the Island without a table, so I would recommend you make a reservation for everything weeks in advance.
For travelers looking for a souvenir to bring home to friends or just to admire for yourself, you simply must stop by the Lekki Art Market. It's definitely considered a tourist attraction, but it's the home to authentic African artwork and crafts that will ensure you never forget this trip.
After spending a few hours shopping at Alára, you'll certainly work up quite the appetite. Iyamah raves about the restaurant's abula, which she describes as "a traditional Nigerian meal made out of yam flour and served in a bowl with soup and gbegiri (peeled, cooked beans) and ewedu (jute leaves)." This spot would be my first stop of the trip just to put in this order.
WWW Travels Tip: The traditional Nigerian dish abula sells out pretty quickly, so go at the beginning of lunch or dinner service.
If you're looking for a spot that hasn't been discovered quite yet, say hello to 788 on the Sea. This destination provides a luxurious dining experience with incredible views. Any restaurant that has a resident pianist is immediately at the top of my list.
