How to Dress Like a Star on a Budget – Inspired by BBN Stars

July 26, 2025 admin

Looking like a celebrity doesn’t have to cost a fortune. If you’ve ever admired the glitz and glam of Big Brother Naija (BBN) stars like Mercy Eke, Liquorose, Tacha, Neo Akpofure, Erica Nlewedim, or Cee-C, but felt your bank account couldn’t keep up—this blog is your fashion breakthrough.

The truth is, while many BBN stars rock designer labels and luxury brands, they also know how to pull off budget-friendly fashion with style and grace. They’ve mastered the art of looking expensive without actually spending extravagantly—and so can you.

Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or just someone who loves to slay smartly, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to dress like a star on a budget, inspired by your favorite BBN fashion icons.

1. Understand the Power of Confidence

Before we even talk clothes, let’s talk attitude. BBN stars often shine not just because of what they wear, but how they wear it. From Tacha’s unapologetic confidence to Neo’s suave elegance, style starts with believing in yourself.

You can wear a ₦5,000 outfit and look like a million bucks if you carry yourself with grace and boldness. Walk tall, smile, and let your posture do some of the styling for you.

Budget tip: Confidence is free—own it!

2. Thrift Like a Pro (Okrika is Gold)

If you think second-hand clothing is beneath a star-level look, think again. Many celebrities, especially during their hustle years, built their style reputations from thrift markets.

Visit places like:

Yaba Market (Lagos)
Wuse Market (Abuja)
Balogun or Tejuosho Market

You’ll find high-quality items—sometimes even designer pieces—for a fraction of the price.

Pro Tip from Liquorose: Layer thrift finds with standout pieces. Mix a ₦2,500 jacket with a fitted dress or jeans and heels, and suddenly, you’ve got a killer look.

3. Follow Celebrity Stylists on Social Media

BBN stars often credit their stylists for curating their flawless outfits. While you may not afford their services, you can follow them for free fashion inspiration. Stylists like Swanky Jerry, Medlin Boss, Tiannah Styling, and Khris Touch post regular content showcasing how they style clients.

By observing how they match colors, textures, and accessories, you’ll learn how to recreate similar looks using budget-friendly pieces.

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4. Invest in Wardrobe Basics

Stars know that classic pieces never go out of style. Some items work with almost everything and can be dressed up or down.

Must-have budget basics:

Crisp white shirt
High-waisted jeans
Black fitted blazer
Neutral heels or sneakers
Little black dress (LBD)
Solid-colored bodycon dress

These staples help you build multiple outfits with fewer items, just like fashion-savvy stars like Erica Nlewedim or Venita Akpofure.

5. DIY Styling – Make It Your Own

Many BBN stars work closely with stylists who customize outfits to suit their brand. But you can achieve similar results with Do-It-Yourself (DIY) creativity.

Here are some ways:

Cut and reshape thrift jeans into trendy shorts
Add rhinestones or patches to plain shirts
Mix Ankara with modern silhouettes
Layer accessories to elevate simple looks

This is how stars like Dorathy Bachor express individuality in their style—by making even simple clothes look unique.

6. Get Inspired by Their Instagram Looks (Then Recreate Them)

Celebrities post their outfits all the time. Instead of scrolling and envying, take screenshots of your favorite BBN star’s look, then:

Break down the outfit into parts: top, bottom, shoes, bag, accessories
Search for budget versions on websites like Jumia, Shein, or in your local market
Don’t copy exactly—adapt it to your own style

For example, if Cee-C wears a bright yellow suit with strappy heels, try a budget blazer in a similar shade and pair it with jeans or a skirt you already own.

7. Play with Accessories – Your Affordable Game-Changer

Accessories are the cheapest way to look expensive.

BBN stars love:

Bold earrings (Liquorose is a fan)
Statement sunglasses (Neo’s go-to)
Waist belts (Erica rocks them often)
Headwraps and turbans
Layered necklaces

Budget tip: Visit local accessory vendors or online markets where you can get trendy items for as low as ₦500–₦2,000.

8. Grooming and Skincare Count as Part of the Look

Ever noticed how BBN stars always look polished? It’s not just the clothes—it’s the skin, nails, and hair.

You don’t need a ₦20,000 spa day. Just:

Stay hydrated
Use affordable skincare brands like Simple, Nivea, or Garnier
Keep nails clean and shaped (even basic polish makes a difference)
Wear hairstyles that flatter your face (from braids to sleek ponytails)

Looking well-groomed makes your outfits pop even more.

9. Shop Smart: Sales, Online Discounts, and Local Brands

Timing is everything. BBN stars may wear luxury brands, but many also support affordable Nigerian brands like:

Shop Eki
1964 Brand
SGTC Clothing
ShopRika
Zaftan by Zephans & Co

These brands sometimes hold end-of-season sales or Instagram flash sales. Sign up for newsletters or follow them on social media to catch deals early.

10. Know Your Body Type and Dress Accordingly

BBN stars understand what works for their shape. Mercy Eke, for example, embraces body-hugging clothes that highlight her curves. Nengi wears elegant, structured dresses that elongate her frame.

Instead of buying what’s trending, buy what fits you best. You’ll look more expensive in a well-fitting ₦3,000 outfit than a ₦50,000 trend piece that doesn’t flatter your shape.

11. Style Repetition – It’s Not a Sin

Ever seen how BBN stars sometimes repeat wardrobe pieces in different ways? That’s intentional.

You can:

Wear one blazer over jeans, then over a gown
Style a white shirt as a top one day and as a jacket the next
Use one bodycon dress as a skirt by layering with a blouse

This gives you multiple outfits from just a few items, a trick that fashion-conscious celebrities swear by.

12. Stay Updated but Stay YOU

Fashion evolves quickly. While it’s good to follow trends like color blocking, monochrome outfits, wide-leg trousers, or mini bags, always prioritize your personal style.

BBN stars succeed in fashion because they mix trends with individuality. Whether it’s Angel’s boldness, Nini’s elegance, or Neo’s clean lines, they stay true to themselves.

You should too.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need Millions to Dress Like One

Dressing like a star isn’t about money—it’s about intention, creativity, and confidence.

By:

Thrifting wisely
Styling smartly
Accessorizing boldly
Grooming consistently
Repeating with flair

You can achieve that star-studded look on a shoestring budget.

Remember, even the biggest stars started small. Your style journey doesn’t need to begin in a boutique on the Island—it can start right in your neighborhood market, your closet, or your mirror.