Afrobeats sensation Tiwa Savage has opened up about the ongoing backlash she faces due to her fashion choices, particularly when it comes to her age.
In a recent interview on the Receipts podcast, the 44-year-old single mother expressed frustration over the constant criticism she receives from Nigerians about the way she dresses.
Savage, who is known for her bold style and confidence, revealed that she often faces harsh age-shaming, especially when wearing outfits considered revealing, like bikinis.
“They age-shame me every single day,” Savage said, speaking passionately about the issue.
She pointed out the double standard she experiences compared to other female celebrities, particularly American singers like Beyoncé, who also flaunt their bodies in their 40s.
“I can’t wear a bikini because of my age? I can because I have a body,” she added.
Savage’s comments highlight a cultural divide in how aging women are perceived in different parts of the world.
While Beyoncé, who is in her 40s, continues to be celebrated for her beauty and confidence in wearing bikinis, Savage argues that Nigerian society treats her differently.
She compared the contrasting reactions to women of her age in the two countries.
“Beyoncé is in her 40s and wears bikinis, but Americans don’t age-shame her. They’d be like, for her age, ‘black don’t crack.’ It’s more celebrated when you look good in your older age,” Savage said.
In contrast, Savage claims that Nigerians often criticize her for daring to wear similar outfits.
The criticism that Tiwa Savage faces in her home country is harsh and personal.
She mentioned that some Nigerians accuse her of setting a bad example for her son by wearing revealing clothing.
“They always throw these things like, when her son grows up, he’s going to see this,” Savage said.
But the singer fired back, saying she has no shame in how she dresses or presents herself.
“My son is going to be like, ‘My mum is a powerful and beautiful woman,’” she said confidently.
Savage’s words have sparked a broader conversation about age, body image, and the judgment placed on women, particularly in African cultures.
While Western society often celebrates older women who embrace their sexuality and beauty, women in their 40s and beyond in some African cultures still face criticism for daring to dress in ways considered youthful or revealing.
Savage is challenging these cultural norms, arguing that beauty and confidence shouldn’t be limited by age.
Tiwa Savage’s career has always been marked by her willingness to push boundaries.
Her music and fashion choices have often reflected her bold personality and her desire to empower women.
But her fashion choices, including wearing revealing outfits like bikinis, have often brought her under fire from critics.
Savage, however, has always remained unapologetic about who she is. The singer also shared her thoughts on body image and the pressure women face to conform to society’s expectations.
“I’ve always felt comfortable in my skin, and I’ll continue to wear whatever makes me feel good,” she said.
