3 Middle-class Nigerians on the struggle to stay stylish in Tinubu’s Nigeria
Written By
AdetolaLifestyle writer
Since the start of the Tinubu presidency, Nigerians have been battling some of the harshest economic conditions in recent memory — from fuel subsidy removal to skyrocketing food prices and a naira that can’t sit still. For many, survival has replaced soft life, and the business of looking good has quietly taken a back seat.
Where people once saved for new shoes or budgeted for monthly Shein hauls, they’re now weighing fashion choices against electricity bills, rent, and food prices.
We spoke to three middle-class Nigerians about how this economy has forced them to rethink their wardrobe choices, and what sacrifices they’ve made to still show up looking decent. Here’s what they had to say.
Hassan, Music Act & Entrepreneur (Avg. Monthly Income: ₦400k)
Before the economy got this bad, how often did you buy new clothes or accessories? How has that changed now?
This economy has driven me completely out of fashion. As a music act, I constantly have visual ideas and looks I want to try out — for shows, shoots, or just everyday style.
Before now, I shopped in three phases: one wardrobe for performances and shoots, another for regular work life, and one more for casual wear. These days, I’ve had to merge everything into one. I can’t afford to fund three separate wardrobes anymore. I just make do.
What fashion items do you now consider “luxuries” that used to feel normal to buy?
Even something as simple as branded T-shirts and accessories. Before, I could buy those on impulse, especially for shoots or stage presence. Now, I have to sit down and ask myself, “Do I really need this, or can I make do with something I already have?”
Have you had to repeat outfits more often or get creative with your wardrobe to keep up appearances?
Absolutely. Even as an upcoming act, people judge you if you repeat outfits at events. So my team and I brainstorm ways to restyle older outfits. Maybe we layer things differently, switch up the accessories, or wear it in a new way. It’s all a game of creativity now.
What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve seen someone do (or done yourself) to stay fashionable despite the economy?
I wouldn’t call it ridiculous, but the shift to thrifted “high fashion” is wild. People are no longer just thrifting regular clothes. Everyone’s chasing second-hand designer items now and calling them “preloved.” It’s a serious market.
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Dorris, 30, Digital Journalist (Avg. Monthly Income: ₦250k)
Before the economy got this bad, how often did you buy new clothes or accessories? How has that changed now?
Nigeria’s economy has always been tough, but this version of hard life is different. I used to buy a new dress every month. It was my little treat for working hard. It made me feel good and helped me stay ready for unexpected outings. These days, that’s no longer possible.
What fashion items do you now consider “luxuries” that used to feel normal to buy?
Shein. That’s a full-blown luxury now. I used to do group hauls with my sisters just so we could qualify for free shipping. But now? We can’t even afford to fill our individual carts. I don’t even bother anymore.
Have you had to repeat outfits more often or get creative with your wardrobe to keep up appearances?
I’ve definitely been repeating outfits. A lot. I haven’t really gotten creative with it, though. I’m not that kind of girl. I just repeat quietly and hope no one notices.
What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve seen someone do (or done yourself) to stay fashionable despite the economy?
Nothing too dramatic. My friends are all 30+ now, so nobody’s trying to do too much. We keep it classy and low-maintenance. Nobody wants to go broke because of fashion.
Tife, 28, Social Media Manager (Avg. Monthly Income: ₦350k)
Before the economy got this bad, how often did you buy new clothes or accessories? How has that changed now?
Before, I used to shop quarterly. I’d save up and refresh my wardrobe every few months — new jeans, fresh sneakers, shirts for work and going out. Now, even replacing one basic outfit feels like a luxury. I’m at that point where I fix my old stuff instead of buying a new one.
What fashion items do you now consider “luxuries” that used to feel normal to buy?
Sneakers. I used to love a good pair of kicks. Nothing crazy, just clean, stylish ones. Now, I can’t even look at the price of the ones I like without feeling bad. I’ve been wearing the same pair for over a year and just cleaning them constantly to keep them fresh.
Have you had to repeat outfits more often or get creative with your wardrobe to keep up appearances?
Yes. I’ve mastered the art of jacket layering. Throw on the same shirt but pair it with a different overshirt or jacket and boom, new look. I’m also doing way more laundry than I used to because I wear the same rotation of clothes now.
What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve seen someone do (or done yourself) to stay fashionable despite the economy?
I once borrowed a particular type of gown from a friend just to take corporate headshots for work. I returned it the next day. It wasn’t even my size, but the photos came out fire, so no regrets.
Note:
Names have been changed for anonymity.
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