Article Information Author, Chiamaka Enendu Role, BBC Africa Reporting from, Lagos Published 2 hours ago Reading time: 9 min
Described as the largest African evening dedicated to cinema and fashion, actors, filmmakers, and creators gathered at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in Nigeria adorned with spectacular headpieces, sculptural dresses, vibrant fabrics, and theatrical outfits that once again transformed this event from a simple award ceremony into a true fashion spectacle.
Held at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, this annual ceremony pays tribute to achievements in African cinema, television, and digital storytelling while serving as one of the continent’s largest cultural showcases where celebrities compete not only for the title of most elegant but also to win awards.
This year, the red carpet showcased an extraordinary fashion display. Several celebrities arrived with entourages to help them navigate through the crowd of photographers and fans.
Queen Mercy Atang, a reality TV star, made a grand entrance in one of the most eye-catching outfits of the evening: a dress made from over 500 slices of bread. Surrounded by assistants carrying trays of bread, she had difficulty moving freely.
In an interview with the BBC, Atang explained that the dress was designed to promote her bakery business, emphasizing that it was a deliberate marketing strategy rather than an attempt to shock.
The dress was created by iconic designer Toyin Lawan of Tiannah’s Empire, who claimed on Instagram that this look signaled a new trend: “Everyone should represent their business.”
This look quickly became one of the most talked-about topics on social media during the evening.
While some fans praised the creation, calling it a “true embodiment of the phrase ‘wearing your business on your head’,” not all were impressed, with some condemning it as a waste of food, a criticism that Atang rejected.
Turning to other highlights of the event, Ghanaian fashion star Nana Akua Addo stood out in an architectural silver dress inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany, adorned with hand-painted stained glass motifs and cathedral-like extensions.
The film “My Father’s Shadow” continued its streak of international recognitions by winning multiple awards, including Best Film, Director, and Screenplay at the AMVCA.
The event also honored other industry veterans, with Uzor Arukwe winning Best Actor and Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo receiving excellence awards for their illustrious careers.
Digital creators also graced the red carpet in sophisticated outfits and sculptural dresses, adding an extra layer of elegance to the evening.
Monica Friday, an actress and producer, showcased flags of seven countries, including Iran, embroidered on her purple ballgown, describing the outfit as a tribute to “a world in turmoil” and a call for peace.
The night was also marked by the presence of Nollywood star Osas Ighodaro, known for her impeccable style, who shined in a silver corset dress adorned with hundreds of stones and crystals.
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