Over the years, the Grammys have been a launching pad for some of the most significant moments in fashion history. This year was no different. African stars were seen making stylish statements as they walked the red carpet.
By Abioye Damilare Samson
The 68th edition of the Annual Grammy Awards took place on the 1st of February, 2026, in Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena. This year’s event saw the crème de la crème of the music world and the best in the business come together for the most prestigious award ceremony in the music world. Once again, African artistes proved their undeniable impact on the biggest stage in music history.
Over the years, the Grammys have been a launching pad for some of the most significant moments in fashion history. This year was no different. African stars were seen making stylish statements as they walked the red carpet.
Tyla, the South African star who won the award for Best African Music Performance for the second time, made a bold fashion statement as she walked the red carpet in a vintage DSquared2 gown. The vintage gown featured crystal accents on the bodice and a dramatic feathered train.
Davido, one of Nigeria’s biggest music sensation, made a stylish statement as he walked the red carpet in a classic black double-breasted tuxedo. The legendary Angélique Kidjo made a bold statement as she wore a custom-made men’s Louis Vuitton suit designed by the legendary Pharrell Williams.
From daring silhouettes to culturally resonant designs, these stars proved once again that African fashion belongs on the global stage. Let’s take a closer look at how African celebrities brought unmatched elegance and style to the 2026 Grammys red carpet.
Tyla
Tyla, who secured her second Grammy for Best African Music Performance with “Push 2 Start”, shimmered on the red carpet in a sheer DSquared2 gown that balanced glamour with softness. The nude-toned dress featured a plunging neckline, delicate crystal embellishments across the bodice, and a dramatic feathered train that trailed behind her with old-Hollywood flair.
She accessorised with a Pandora choker and strappy high-heeled sandals, keeping the focus on the dress’s fluid elegance. Her hair was styled half-up, with a long, sultry bang sweeping across the right side of her face, completing a look that felt effortlessly star-worthy.
Davido
Nigerian megastar Davido may not have taken home the Best African Music Performance award, but he made his presence felt on the red carpet. The Afrobeats icon arrived in a striking black double-breasted tuxedo that displayed meticulous detailing and bold design choices.
The standout feature was an ornate silver-embellished bib front that immediately drew the eye, while the jacket eschewed traditional lapels for a sharp, triangular geometric design in silver and black. This architectural element created a strong focal point and gave the silhouette a sculptural, modern edge. Davido kept his styling refined and intentional: a classic black bow tie, crisp white shirt, and dark sunglasses.
Ayra Starr
Nigerian star Ayra Starr commanded attention in a custom sheer navy-black deep-V gown by Nicola Bacchilega. The transparent design exuded modern elegance with a hint of drama, perfectly complemented by AKANO diamond earrings and a matching necklace.
Styled by Elly Karamoh with beauty by Painted by Esther, the look was confident, polished, and effortlessly star-level.
Angelique Kidjo
Angélique Kidjo exuded timeless elegance in a custom men’s Louis Vuitton velvet suit designed by Pharrell Williams. She paired it with a crisp white shirt, black tie, and dark sunglasses, while a matching sculptural headwrap added regal flair. Polished, powerful, and effortlessly commanding, the look blended classic menswear with unmistakable African poise.
While the five-time Grammy winner lost the award to Bad Bunny’s “EoO”, her fashion moment was nothing short of triumphant.
Omah Lay
Omah Lay, nominated for Best African Music Performance for his feature on Davido’s “With You”, kept things effortlessly cool on the red carpet. He stepped out in a brown ribbed knit cardigan layered over a patterned vest, paired with light-wash jeans and embroidered Western boots. The deep neckline, paired with a pendant necklace, gave the look a soft sensuality that aligns with his artistic persona.
On the lower half, he pairs the top with light-wash, slightly relaxed straight-leg jeans, complete with a leather belt and a chain detail that leans into classic cowboy styling. Finished with a bucket hat, slim sunglasses, and subtle jewellery, the look leaned into relaxed confidence: quiet, stylish, and unmistakably Omah Lay.
Shaboozey
Nigerian-American singer Shaboozey, born Collins Obinna Chibueze, celebrated his first Grammy win for Best Country Duo/Group Performance with his collaboration “Amen” alongside Jelly Roll by making a bold fashion statement on the red carpet.
The rising country star opted for an eclectic mix of high fashion and Western flair, wearing a Ralph Lauren tuxedo jacket paired with a Bode vest, a fresh take on the classic bolo tie, and jeans. Black shoes and a distinctive pilot’s hat completed the ensemble, showcasing his unique ability to blend traditional country aesthetics with contemporary style.
Adekunle Gold
Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold made his first appearance at the Grammy Awards this year, and even without a nomination, he arrived with undeniable style. The artiste struck the perfect balance between classic and contemporary in a black velvet Burberry blazer with satin lapels.
He wore an open-neck shirt unbuttoned at the top for a relaxed, sensual vibe, paired with tailored black trousers and polished dress shoes. Dark-tinted sunglasses added mystery, while layered chain necklaces and statement earrings brought a modern edge to the timeless silhouette.
Trevor Noah
Popular South African comedian and television host Trevor Noah, who returned to host the 68th Annual Grammy Awards for the sixth consecutive year, kept it dapper on the red carpet in a Ralph Lauren tuxedo. The ensemble featured a subtle shell pattern adorning the jacket and an elegant brooch on his lapel that added a sophisticated finishing touch to his classic look.
Trevor Noah’s choice reflected his signature blend of timeless elegance and understated flair, proving once again why he remains one of the most stylish figures on award show circuits.
Abioye Damilare Samson is a music journalist and culture writer focused on the African entertainment industry. His works have appeared in Afrocritik, Republic NG, NATIVE Mag, Newlines Magazine, The Nollywood Reporter, Culture Custodian, 49th Street, and more. Connect with him on Twitter and IG: @Dreyschronicle.