Lagos dresses well, and most of it is made to measure. Having clothes sewn by a tailor is ordinary here, not a luxury, and hair is an event of its own.
Tailors
Almost everyone has a tailor, and the good ones are busy.
- Buy the fabric first. Ankara, lace, aso-oke and plain fabrics come from the markets, Balogun above all, or fabric shops. Lagos markets
- Bring a picture of the style you want, and agree the details: length, lining, sleeves, fit.
- Agree the price and the date in writing, or at least on WhatsApp.
- Have at least one fitting, and allow time for alterations.
The late delivery
Every Lagosian has a tailor story. Ahead of weddings, and above all in December, tailors take on more than they can finish. Give them far longer than they ask for, follow up, and do not leave an outfit for a fixed date to the last week.
Hair
- Salons do braids, weaves, wigs, relaxing and natural hair care. Braids can take many hours; book, and bring something to do.
- Home service stylists come to you, and are common.
- Buy hair extensions yourself if you know what you want, or agree with the stylist what is included in the price.
Check that the salon’s tools are clean and that braids are not pulled so tight that they hurt; tight styles damage hairlines.
Barbers
Barbershops are everywhere, from neighbourhood shops to upmarket studios. Choose one that sterilises its clippers and blades between customers, or uses new blades. Many keep a generator running so the power cut does not stop your haircut halfway.