If your social media scroll has been dominated by a vibrant, strapless, figure-hugging dress with colourful stripes, you are witnessing a national fashion moment. The dress in question is from the Nigerian label Hertunba, and it has effortlessly transitioned from the runways of Lagos Fashion Week 2025 to the wardrobes of celebrities, influencers, and style-conscious women across the country.
The Brand Behind the Sensation
Hertunba is not a newcomer but a brand that has firmly planted its flag in the Nigerian fashion landscape. Founded by Florentina Nneka Agu, a designer from Benin, Edo State, the brand's name is a fusion of "Her" and the Yoruba chieftaincy title "Otunba." This nomenclature immediately signals its mission: to celebrate and empower strong, confident women.
The philosophy is woven into every stitch. Hertunba's creations are renowned for making women feel powerful, beautiful, and utterly comfortable. This is achieved through a dedicated focus on exceptional craftsmanship and premium, often locally sourced materials.
Deconstructing the Viral Dress
So, what exactly makes this particular dress the undisputed star of the season? The answer lies in a masterful combination of fabric, fit, and flair.
The fabric is the undeniable hero. It features a rich interplay of horizontal stripes in deep jewel tones—think emerald green, royal blue, and vibrant yellow—accented with a subtle metallic shimmer. This isn't mass-produced material; it's a thick, intentional weave that speaks to quality and time-honoured artistry. Many of Hertunba's fabrics, including the iconic akwete, are handwoven by women artisans in Edo State, embedding a story of culture and community into each garment.
The silhouette is equally commanding. The dress sculpts the body, creating a flattering hourglass shape before flaring out just below the knee into a dramatic, tiered hemline. This hem is adorned with playful tassels or fringe, which adds movement and a touch of drama with every step. The effect is regal yet playful, offering a mermaid-like elegance that feels both special and incredibly fun to wear.
How to Style the Hertunba Statement Dress
As demonstrated by style icons like Saskay and numerous fashion influencers, this dress demands a minimalist approach to accessories. The intricate pattern and texture are more than enough to make a powerful statement.
Hairstyle: Opt for a sleek bun or a high ponytail to highlight the strapless neckline and décolletage.
Jewellery: Choose one focal point—either a pair of bold statement earrings or a simple pendant necklace. Avoid wearing both to let the dress shine.
Occasion: This is a dress built for moments where you want to be seen. It thrives at upscale birthday dinners, champagne receptions, red-carpet events, or any gathering where confidence is the best accessory.
More Than Just a Garment: The Hertunba Ethos
The overwhelming love for this dress transcends its visual appeal. It taps into a growing desire for fashion with substance. Hertunba embodies the principles of slow fashion—prioritizing sustainability, supporting local artisans, and creating heirloom-quality pieces meant to last for years, not just a season.
Wearing a Hertunba dress means wearing a piece of Nigerian heritage, skill, and artistic pride. It is a conscious choice for women who value elegance, storytelling, and the empowering feeling that comes from wearing something truly exceptional.
So, if you've been captivated by the stripes flooding your Instagram feed, know that the hype is well-founded. The Hertunba dress is more than a trend; it's a wearable celebration of Nigerian design, female empowerment, and timeless style.
