When was the last time a single Nigerian star totally redefined what it means to be a fashion trailblazer—and a mum—at the same time? Toke Makinwa, fondly known as TokStarr, isn’t just living her best life; she’s making motherhood look like the front row at Lagos Fashion Week. From radio waves to YouTube vibes and eye-popping style moments, Toke’s recent journey is an explosive masterclass in entertainment, ambition, and relentless reinvention.
Her name alone sets off a buzz anywhere in Nigeria. But beyond celebrity status, her evolving wardrobe—with stunning appearances that have gone viral more times than you can say superstar mummy—inspires young women, style followers, and mums nationwide. What’s the inside story behind her latest looks?
Toke Makinwa’s Career: The Unfiltered Journey
If “jack of all trades, master of all” was a face, it would be Toke’s. She burst onto the scene at Rhythm 93.7 FM, co-hosting The Morning Drive and setting the tone for inspirational stories and morning laughs on Nigerian airwaves. By 2012, millions watched as she brought her signature charm to the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) pageant, lighting up homes with her effortless presenting.
Not stopping there, Toke climbed the ladder to host major TV and radio shows and created her own extraordinary YouTube show, Toke Moments. With each episode, she cracks open raw, genuine conversations with celebrities, socialites, and influencers—no holds barred. Her journey is the stuff of classic Nollywood “from hustle to glory” tales, only it’s happening in real time, with every step carefully documented for her millions of fans.
Nigerian Fashion’s Leading Lady: Unprecedented Influence
Now, let’s talk style. Some call her the ‘original fashion girl’, and truly, that’s not an exaggeration. Ever since she graced the spotlight, Toke has been commanding attention with her bold looks, never afraid to take fashion risks that get everyone talking. Who can forget how her looks trend on social media almost every single weekend?
New motherhood hasn’t slowed her down—if anything, it’s fuelled her creativity. With the recent arrival of her daughter, Yakira Eliana (nicknamed Yaya), Toke has given us looks that scream pure confidence, excitement, and that soft touch only a proud mum can pull off. In a society where tradition and trend often clash, seeing a Nigerian celebrity embrace both, with style, has struck a serious chord.
Lagos to the World: Celebrating New Chapters
From taking baby Yaya to church for her dedication, to marking birthdays as a proud Scorpio, Toke has emerged from every moment with her fashion game set to “high alert.” Each outfit symbolises not just personal milestones, but the hopes and ambitions of countless women juggling family, career, and passion in modern Nigeria. Is it any wonder we’re all glued to her Instagram for the next unveil?
1. The White Dress for Yaya’s Baby Dedication
Step into the church that Sunday, and you’d think an angel had landed. For her daughter’s dedication and thanksgiving, Toke Makinwa wore an all-white gown by Bridal Accent, a bespoke Nigerian brand famed for their creativity. This wasn’t just any dress—it radiated the purity, joy, and hope of new motherhood.
According to the designer, Toke fell in love with their Ocean Collection. The designers combined a “Shell top and Marina drapery” to whip up a masterpiece that, frankly, would get even the most fashion-averse Nigerian aunties talking.
Off-the-shoulder elegance, draped texture—this gown looked almost like it floated on air. Not to forget the chic white fascinator and dainty veil, a nod to timeless Nigerian thanksgiving styles. According to style watchers, this homage to Bridal Accent is no fluke; Toke wore one of their pieces earlier in 2024, proving she’s loyal to designers who match her vibe.
2. The Pink After-Party Dress: Unfiltered Joy
Reception time? That’s when Toke truly let her hair down. She changed into a show-stopping, custom pink dress by TUBO—the kind of look that makes Nigerian after-parties legendary. Why settle for ordinary, when you’re a trailblazer?
The gown’s corset structure, one-shoulder ruffle, and silver accents had everybody whispering “Na wa o!” But the real talking point? The elaborate pink and silver fringe that shimmered with each step—a perfect metaphor for the sparkle young mums bring to Nigerian family celebrations.
3. The Red Dress in Fierce Scorpio Style
When Scorpio season rolled in, Toke didn’t disappoint. She celebrated her birthday in a floor-sweeping, red gown, complete with a high-neck front and dramatic ruffled back. If this isn’t the textbook definition of “striking a pose,” I don’t know what is.
Red is a statement colour in Nigeria—evoking passion and power—so this was a deliberate salute to her bold, confident persona. At the same time, the gown’s silhouette signalled Toke’s shift into a new chapter, balancing motherhood with elegance. Even the “Aso ebi” crowd had to give her credit!
4. The Brown Boss Blazer: Power Dressing, Naija Style
Next, Toke stunned Instagram with portraits of herself in an oversized brown blazer—worn as a mini-dress. This wasn’t just workwear; it screamed, “I’m the boss, and I know it.”
The combination of sharp tailoring and cheeky, logo-patterned tights added that youthful Lagos twist. Style experts say this look is perfect for the “soft power” era—where being a mum, an executive, or both is no excuse to dull your shine.
5. The Vibrant Yellow Mini Blazer
For a daytime exhibition, Toke opted for a light yellow blazer-cinched perfectly at the waist—paired with dark tights and sleek heels. The result? Balanced, professional, but ready to step out to catch amala with friends after.
6. The Black Lace Owambe Gown: Classic Nigerian Glam
Let’s be honest—can any Nigerian celebrity’s fashion story be complete without an owambe signature? Toke closed out the run with a black lace and gold embroidered gown, perfect for weddings and grand parties.
The fitted bodice, sweetheart neckline, and dramatic draped overskirt created the ultimate “statement piece.” She crowned it all with a classic cream gele and gold jewellery. According to Lagos-based stylist Yemi Bada, this mix of tradition and modern flair “captures why Toke inspires Nigerian women—she honours our roots even as she sets new trends.”
Through every look, Toke Makinwa reminds us that Nigerian women can be anything—celebrity, businesswoman, or mother—without sacrificing style. By mixing global and Nigerian designs, she puts local talent on the map, while affirming that motherhood and ambition are not mutually exclusive.
Her style evolution shows the hopes of a new generation: women who celebrate milestones with their own unique flavour, on their own terms. For many, Toke’s journey is more than fashion—it’s a bold statement of what it means to “shine your shine” in Nigeria today.
So, which Toke moment speaks to you the most? Is it her daring birthday red gown, her church-white embrace of tradition, or her soft-yet-bold boss ensemble? Share your favourite look—or your own fashion journey as a Nigerian mum or mogul. We’d love to hear your story!
