Summer in Lagos isn’t the weather; it’s just a prelude to Detty December activities. We’re talking summer-themed parties, people travelling in and out of the country. And we’re giving you the ultimate Lagos-style prep guide. Think of this as the cheat sheet to looking hot, feeling fresh, while being busy and still having a blast before and when the summer fever fully kicks in.
Whether you’re brunching in Lekki, beaching at Tarkwa, or just flexing soft life on your IG stories—this one’s for you.
FASHION
“Hot Enough to Turn Heads, Chill Enough to Survive Lagos Sun”
1. Lightweight Fabrics Are Your Best Friends
Ditch anything clingy or heavy—go for cotton, linen, or outfits that let the breeze pass through. The weather is too unpredictable; don’t let the rains fool you, it can get hot in a few minutes. Your outfit should look like it was made for Lagos—flowy, stylish, comfortable, and above all, breathable.
2. Colours for the Mood
Don’t you think it’s time to switch up those “all black outfits” and gloomy outfits with something that makes people do double-takes at you? Also, light colors help with the Lagos heat.
3. Accessorize, Show Off!
You already took it easy on the outfit, you can go a bit further with your accessories, those chunky sunglasses and huge rafia hats, add more presence to you. Niche jewelry is also a great choice, those locally crafted chains, waist beads, and anklets, that say “ready for the summer vibes”. You’ll want to lose the heavy jewelry. Go for items that are both sleek and stylish.
4. Footwear That Survives Lagos
These are the days you need shoes that can handle everything from uneven sidewalks to long hours on the road, and even an unplanned event that you suddenly find yourself in, because that’s just Lagos, you never know how your day might end. Think sporty sandals with a thick sole (so your feet won’t hate you), or chunky slides that can easily transition from sidewalk to shoreline. Sneakers are fine—just be prepared to clean them when they touch anything wet. Sometimes, function equals fashion in Lagos.
WELLNESS
“Lagos Doesn’t Sleep, That Shouldn’t Involve You”
1. Hydration
It is not just a Twitter aesthetic; you sweat more than you care to admit. Coconut water, infused water, water with a straw—whatever helps you get those litres in. Lagos heat is not your mate, even when it’s raining once or twice in a week.
2. Skincare > Makeup
When the humidity is high, a full-beat is not only unnecessary—it’s risky. Embrace the “less is more” philosophy: a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum that lights up your cheekbones, and sunscreen. And after a day in the Lagos sun, treat your skin to a chilled aloe vera sheet mask or an ice water plunge. Your skin will thank you when the cameras come out.
3. Move That Body—Gym Is Cool But There’s More
Who said “workout” has to start at 6:00 AM, with crunches or heavy equipment? Take a dance class at The Body Language Company, Pitstop, or a yoga class at The Dew Centre, or Wall Climbing at PopLandmark. If you prefer solo vibes, try Tarkwa Bay, any of the Art Galleries, and Museums. Even a 20-minute stroll through the banana trees of Lekki Conservation Centre counts–All you need to do is move!
4. Mental Wellness
As I mentioned earlier, the closer we get to the “ember” months, Lagos starts to pick up even more. With calls from event planners, group chats lit up with “Which club this weekend?” and all that FOMO energy. Guard your peace. Dedicate Sunday mornings to meditation at home, or wherever you feel at peace. If your group chat is blowing up, mute it and go on a “social media cleanse” for a day—trust, Lagos can wait. Setting boundaries is the ultimate flex.
ACTIVITIES
“I’m Here for a Good Time”
1. Beachside Escapes and Getaways: Your Personal Lagos Therapy
Nothing says “pre-summer” like plotting a weekend trip to Ilashe or Tarkwa Bay. Imagine boarding a speedboat from Lekki; you feel the wind on your cheeks as Lagos shrinks and the ocean opens up. It’s a good way to step away from the increase in Lagos activities as the days roll into the “embers”. Whether it’s Tarkwa Bay or a private villa in Oniru, the ocean breeze is therapy.
2. Parties & Linkups: Catch Vibes, not Feelings
Be open to going out and catching Lagosians having a great time, whether it’s a rooftop party, a rave, or hanging out with your friends on public holidays. Whatever rocks your boat, don’t get hung up on the pressure Lagos can bear down on you; there’s always somewhere to let loose, just around the corner.
3. Creative Adventures: Boring Is Not in Our DNA
Try something new: enroll in a pottery class in Ikoyi and get your hands dirty molding a serving dish you’ll post on Instagram with pride. Go thrifting with your friends at Katangua or Yaba, literally anything that’s new and exciting for you. Roller-skating is another vibe. The key is to be spontaneous.
In conclusion, this is your last chance to get your life in “IG-ready” order—wardrobe, skin, mind, and weekend calendar—before Lagos becomes an all-day festival. So pack that bag, layer on your SPF, lace up those chunky sandals, and go get ready, because summer in Lagos is already here, but you’ve still got time.
