Category: Fashion/Beauty

Christmas in Nigeria is a time of joy, celebration, and sharing, but it doesn’t have to stretch your budget. With a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you can give meaningful gifts that will be appreciated without spending too much. Here are 10 affordable gift ideas to make your Christmas celebration with family and friends worthwhile without your overburdening yourself.

Locally Made Snacks or Treats

Food gifts are always appreciated. You can package locally made snacks like chin chin, puff-puff mix, groundnuts, plantain chips, or kilishi in decorative bags or containers. These are budget-friendly, delicious, and perfect for sharing.  

Ankara Accessories

Ankara fabric is versatile and affordable. You can gift small items like Ankara tote bags, headbands, scrunchies, wallets, or even a set of matching face masks. These items are stylish, practical, and showcase Nigerian culture.  

Custom Framed Photos

Printing and framing a memorable photo is an affordable and sentimental gift. Visit a local photo studio to print a favourite picture and pair it with an inexpensive but attractive frame. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate special memories.  

Recharge Cards or Data Bundles

Most friends and family spend a whole lot of their time either online or making phone calls on. Staying connected is essential, and gifting airtime or data is both practical and thoughtful. It’s a gift that everyone can use and appreciate, especially during the festive season when people love to connect with loved ones.  

Locally Sourced Beauty Products

There are many affordable, high-quality Nigerian-made beauty products, like shea butter, black soap, or essential oils. You can create a small care package of these items and present them as a pampering gift.  

A Mini Food Basket

Put together a small food basket with everyday staples or festive treats. Items like rice, spices, seasoning cubes, palm oil, groundnut oil, pastes, salts, and canned drinks can make a thoughtful and practical gift for families.

Handmade Cards with Personal Messages

A heartfelt message can go a long way. Create handmade cards with your personal touch, using affordable craft supplies. Write meaningful notes expressing your love, gratitude, or best wishes for the new year.  

Rechargeable or Solar-Powered Gadgets

Affordable rechargeable lanterns or mini solar-powered lamps are practical gifts for Nigerian households, especially in areas with erratic electricity supply. They are useful, thoughtful, and will be appreciated for their functionality.  

Traditional Food Ingredients

Gifting fresh or packaged traditional food items, like crayfish, dried fish, spices, or a small pack of locally grown grains like beans or garri, can be a unique and thoughtful gesture. Wrap them in a festive way to make the gift more special. 

A DIY Hamper

Understanding the state of the economy, you don’t have to spend a lot to create a lovely hamper. Buy a small basket or bowl and fill it with affordable goodies like biscuits, chocolates, sachets of coffee or tea, and maybe a small bottle of zobo or kunu. Add a bow or ribbon for a festive touch. 

The value of a gift lies in the thought behind it, not its cost. Don’t do too much trying to impress friends or families and then end up breaking the bank. These affordable ideas cater to local tastes and needs, ensuring that your friends and family feel loved and appreciated without putting a strain on your finances. After all, Christmas is about the spirit of giving and sharing moments of joy with those who matter most.

The festive season is a time to celebrate, and fashion plays a significant role in expressing the joy and excitement of the holidays. From glamorous parties to casual family gatherings, dressing up in style is essential for making an impression. Here are the top 10 festive season fashion styles for both men and women, combining elegance, tradition, and modern flair.  

For Women

Sequin Dresses

Nothing says festive like a sparkly sequin dress. These glamorous outfits are perfect for holiday parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations.  

Style Tip: Pair with metallic heels and a clutch for a chic look.  

Velvet Ensembles  

Velvet is a timeless fabric for the holidays, exuding luxury and warmth. Velvet dresses, jumpsuits, or blazers add sophistication to your festive wardrobe.  

Style Tip: Choose deep hues like emerald green, burgundy, or navy blue.  

Maxi Dresses with Festive Prints

Flowy maxi dresses with holiday-themed prints or embellishments are ideal for family gatherings or outdoor festivities.  

Style Tip: Accessorize with statement jewellery and a pair of strappy sandals.  

Tailored Pantsuits  

For a modern and powerful look, tailored pantsuits in bold colours like red, gold, or silver are on trend. They’re great for office holiday parties or upscale dinners.  

Style Tip: Pair with stilettos and a bold lip colour for a striking appearance.  

Traditional Attire with a Modern Twist

Traditional outfits such as Ankara dresses, kaftans, or sarees, styled with contemporary cuts or embellishments, bring a cultural touch to the season.  

Style Tip: Add modern accessories like a statement belt or clutch for a balanced look.  

Midi Skirts with Sparkly Tops  

A-line or pleated midi skirts paired with sequined or metallic tops create an effortlessly chic look for the holidays.  

Style Tip: Wear with ankle boots or heels for a complete outfit.  

Off-Shoulder Gowns

Off-shoulder gowns in elegant fabrics like satin or silk add a romantic flair to your festive wardrobe.  

Style Tip: Style with drop earrings and an updo for a polished look.  

Statement Jumpsuits  

Jumpsuits are perfect for those who want a sleek, modern alternative to dresses. Go for bold colours, festive embellishments, or wide-leg designs.  

Style Tip: Cinch your waist with a stylish belt for added definition.  

LBD (Little Black Dress)  

A classic black dress, updated with festive elements like lace, fringe, or sequins, is always in style for the season.  

Style Tip: Add pops of colour with accessories like red pumps or a green clutch. 

For Men

Classic Tuxedo

The tuxedo is a timeless option for formal holiday events. Black, midnight blue, or even velvet tuxedos add elegance to any gathering.  

Style Tip: Pair with a crisp white shirt, a bow tie, and patent leather shoes.  

Festive Blazers  

Patterned or colourful blazers in velvet or jacquard fabrics are great for adding a festive flair to your outfit.  

Style Tip: Wear over a turtleneck sweater or a classic button-down shirt.  

Traditional Wear  

Opt for cultural outfits like agbada, kaftans, or sherwanis for a traditional and stylish festive look.  

Style Tip: Accessorize with matching footwear and a stylish cap or turban.  

Rollneck Sweaters with Tailored Pants

A fitted turtleneck sweater paired with tailored pants is a sleek yet comfortable option for semi-formal gatherings.  

Style Tip: Add a blazer for an elevated look.  

Casual Festive Shirts  

Bold, festive-themed shirts with prints or patterns work well for relaxed gatherings. Go for plaids, florals, or geometric designs.  

Style Tip: Pair with chinos or dark denim and loafers.  

Double-Breasted Coats  

Stay stylish in colder weather with a double-breasted coat. It’s versatile and adds a polished look to any outfit.  

Style Tip: Wear over a suit or with a scarf for added flair.  

Statement Accessories

Upgrade your outfit with bold accessories like watches, cufflinks, or pocket squares in festive colours.  

Style Tip: A red or gold tie can add just the right amount of holiday spirit.  

Slim-Fit Suits  

A tailored slim-fit suit in bold colours like burgundy, green, or even patterned designs is perfect for modern men.  

Style Tip: Add a festive tie or pocket square to complete the look.  

Knitwear

Stylish knit sweaters with subtle patterns or festive colors are great for casual events.  

Style Tip: Pair with jeans or chinos and leather boots.  

Monochrome Looks  

Monochrome outfits in shades of black, white, or grey create a minimalist yet sophisticated look.  

Style Tip: Layer with a trench coat or blazer for added depth.  

The festive season is the perfect opportunity to experiment with your style and showcase your personality. Whether you prefer glamorous dresses or sharp suits, traditional attire or modern ensembles, these 10 fashion styles for men and women ensure you’ll be the centre of attention at any celebration. Embrace the joy of the holidays with outfits that make you look and feel your best!

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The 2024 Lagos Fashion Week 2024 is officially on. The event began on October 23rd and will end on Sunday, October 27th, garnering several fashion enthusiasts, executives, models, and creatives.

The 2024 Lagos Fashion Week theme is COMMUNE, honouring Africa’s fashion ecosystem’s collaborative spirit by honouring designers and behind-the-scenes creative minds.

Imad Eduso, Maliko, Ajabeng, Born Star Nigeria, NYA, Pettre Taylor, Kente Gentlemen, LFJ, Ajabeng, Oshobor, and Ugo Monye blessed the runway on Day 1.

This year’s highlight will include Lagos Fashion Week’s Green Access program by Style House Files, an initiative to boost sustainable emerging designers.

Bornstar Nigeria x Maison Mystic debut their collaboration on the Lagos Fashion Week 24 stage.

Maison Mystic collection photographed by @insignaonline, courtesy @sonyalphanigeria

EVENT 1: Lagos Fashion Week x Bicester Collection Roundtable

DATE: Wednesday, October 23rd 2024

TIME: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM WAT

LOCATION: External Ballroom, Federal Palace Hotel (FPH)

The 2024 Lagos Fashion Week 2024 is officially on. The event began on October 23rd and will end on Sunday, October 27th, garnered several fashion enthusiasts, executives, models, and creatives.

The 2024 Lagos Fashion Week theme is COMMUNE, honouring Africa’s fashion ecosystem’s collaborative spirit by honouring designers and behind-the-scenes creative minds.

Imad Eduso, Maliko, Ajabeng, Born Star Nigeria, NYA, Pettre Taylor, Kente Gentlemen, LFJ, Ajabeng, Oshobor and Ugo Monye blessed the Runway on Day 1.

This year’s highlight will include Lagos Fashion Week’s Green Access program, by Style House Files, an initiative to boost sustainable emerging designers.

Ajabeng collection photographed by @kolaoshalusi @insignaonline, courtesy @sonyalphanigeria

EVENT 1: Lagos Fashion Week x Bicester Collection Roundtable

DATE: Wednesday, October 23rd 2024

TIME: 10:00AM – 12:0PM WAT

LOCATION: External Ballroom, Federal Palace Hotel (FPH)

In our fast-paced world, the way we start our mornings can set the tone for the entire day, as starting your day with intention is a powerful way to set the tone for a productive and mindful day. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, find peace of mind or set yourself up for success, establishing a morning routine can transform your life by incorporating intentional practices into your morning, you can cultivate a positive mindset, boost your energy and prepare yourself for whatever it is the day may bring.

Beginnings are quite important. They set a tone for what’s to come, and mornings are no exception. Establishing a morning routine can be the perfect way to start your day off on the right foot. We may end up asking ourselves, “what are the right morning routine to take, How do we take these steps, what are the benefits of a mindful morning routine?” Here’s a guide:

Mindful Morning Routines

Starting Your Day with IntentionIn our fast-paced world, the way we start our mornings can set the tone for the entire day. A mindful morning routine can transform your life by grounding you in the present moment, fostering a sense of calm, and8 setting clear intentions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to creating a mindful morning routine that you can integrate into your daily life.

Wake Up Early

Waking up early gives you the quiet time you need to start your day without rush. Aim to wake up at least an hour before your usual time. This not only gives you ample time for your routine but also allows you to experience the tranquility of the early morning.

Hydrate with Intention

Starting your day by drinking a glass of water. Hydrating first thing in the morning helps your metabolism and flushes out toxins. As you drink, take a moment to feel gratitude for the water, appreciating its role in nourishing your body.

Practice Gratitude

Spend a few minutes reflecting on what you’re grateful for, you can start by writing down three things you’re grateful for each day to cultivate a positive mindset. This practice can be as simple as thinking of three things or writing them down in a journal.

Gentle Movement or Exercise

Including some form of physical activity or exercise into your morning. Whether it’s yoga, stretching, or a light jog, movement helps to wake up your body, improve circulation, and release endorphins. Choose an activity that you enjoy and that feels good to you.

Mindful Breathing or Meditation

Take at least 5-10 minutes to practice mindful breathing or meditation. Maintain a good sitting posture, close your eyes, and focus on only your breathing. Inhale deeply and hold on for a few seconds, then exhale slowly. This practice centres your mind and reduces stress, preparing you for the day ahead.

Nourish Your Body with a Healthy Breakfast

Prepare a nutritious breakfast that fuels your body. Eat more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. As you eat, practice mindful eating by savoring each bite, noticing the flavours, textures, and how the food makes you feel.

Set Intentions for the Day

Define your goals and priorities for the day, create a to-do list to help you stay focused. Ask yourself what you want to achieve, how you want to feel, and what mindset you need to maintain. Writing these intentions down can make them more concrete and help you stay focused throughout the day.

Personal Development

Dedicate some time to personal growth activities such as reading, journaling, or listening to a podcast. Choose content that inspires you, expands your knowledge, or helps you grow personally and professionally.

Plan and Prioritize

Review your schedule and to-do list for the day. Prioritize your tasks and set realistic goals. This not only organizes your day but also reduces anxiety by giving you a clear roadmap to follow.

Embrace Silence

Before diving into the noise of the day, spend a few moments in silence. This could be during your meditation, while drinking your morning tea, or simply sitting and enjoying the quiet. Silence helps you connect with your inner self and reinforces a sense of peace.

Tips for creating a sustainable morning routine:

1. Start small and add new practices gradually
2. Be consistent and make it a habit
3. Make it enjoyable and personalized
4. Be gentle with yourself and don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day.

Benefits of having a mindful morning routine:

1. Improved mental clarity and focus
2. Enhanced self-awareness and Mindfulness
3. Increased energy and motivation
4. Better time management and Productivity
5. Reduced stress and anxiety
6. Improved overall well-being

The long-awaited 2024 AMVCA is finally here!!! This year will celebrate 10 years of awarding and recognizing talents in the industry.

The event honours talented actors and actresses in the film industry and will be held live at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos.

As is customary, the gifted radio and TV presenter, IK Osakioduwa, will be the host of the event.

Check out the outfits for the men at the AMVCA:

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Good bye, Blondie Riri!

Rihanna has decided to dump her honey-blonde hair for a new pastel pink look ahead of the 2024 Met Gala. 

Fashion business mogul and singer Rihanna is expected to walk on the red carpet of one of the most glamorous annual events, blessing fans with magnificent beauty.

Last night, Riri stepped out with her partner, A$AP Rocky, to support him with his new Puma collaboration, released during a whirlwind weekend of F1 races in the city. The Fenty Beauty founder stepped out with pastel pink hair in Miami.

Rihanna wore a slinky black silk dress with an off-the-shoulder silhouette and corseted waist to the event.

In 2014, she debuted a sugary pixie cut at a Clippers game in Los Angeles, unlike the longer 2024 version. Will this be her Met Gala look? Only time will tell. Follow us on Twitter at @streamdorm to stay updated on the Met Gala.

In today’s world, Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) has become the norm among some celebrities, but only a few admit it publicly. Toke Makinwa is among those few in Nigeria.

In 2020, Toke Makinwa was asked why she did BBL; she said it was to feel better in her clothes.

“Yes, I worked on my body, but my breasts are natural. I had a lip filler because I wanted to launch my lipstick brand. Also, I enhanced my body after I got my fibroids removed. I did that because I wanted to feel better in clothes. I do not regret enhancing my body because it’s the best thing I’ve ever done, and I wanted to look curvy, and I love it.”

On Saturday, May 4th, 2024, she was asked by an X (fka Twitter) user if her butt was real; she admitted it was paid for. Another user asked her if she could go back in time to do things differently: “Nothing. Regret is so exhausting,” she said.

She may not have regretted a thing, but she did admit that bleaching was the dumbest thing she had ever done. “I’m just so thankful for good genes and money,” she said.

Let’s face it, most of us don’t like reading school books and that is because of the obligation attached to it. And some subjects are just plain difficult. For Example, Mathematics. I’m sure you guessed it too. But the thing is you have to pass the subject and not liking it is a problem for you.

So, I am going to be explaining the best way to study a course or subject even if you don’t like it or find it difficult.

CHANGE YOUR MINDSET

You know that you are the boss of your mind? Well if you don’t know, I am telling you now. Whatever you want your mind to believe, trust me, that’s what it’s going to believe. So all you have to do is tell your mind that if you don’t read, you won’t pass. It’s that simple. Let me be honest, at first, you’d feel like it’s not working but if you continue saying it, one day you’d believe it. You won’t realize when, but you’d just see yourself believing it.

Cultivate the habit of reminding yourself and your mind(most especially) that if you don’t read, you won’t pass. And trust me you’d be getting better. You can also bring up other things to tell your mindset to help you read. And if for any reason you have a mindset that gives you the motivation not to read, try reversing it.

Example of the mindset that motivates one not to read: school na scam School isn’t a scam. A simple question you’d be asked, you’d start stuttering, cause you don’t know it. So see education as a means of being respected and seen as smart in the future. So you can say things like Education will make me smart Education will take me places. Education will help me improve my skills. And if you continue saying it, you’d one day believe it. And once you believe it, it is possible.

CREATE YOUR INTEREST

Teachers or any other person would be like “for you to study well you have to put interest in the subject” Which interest? Like where is the interest coming from? I don’t like this subject and you are telling me to have an interest in the subject. If I had an interest in the first place I wouldn’t hate it! That aside, the truth is if you don’t have a reason to Like a subject, you won’t like it. And in this case, you must pass the subject or the course. So you must like it. Someone might ask, How do I create interest? Look for how that subject connects to your future ambitions. Example: Mathematics; you might think you don’t need maths for anything, how will maths help me as a Dancer? Or an Actor? Not directly, but indirectly though. According to psychology, Maths helps in sharpening your brain. You need a sharp brain to memorize scripts, you need a sharp brain to memorize dance moves. You don’t have to settle for less, Let maths help you become better than average. If you have not figured out what you want to be in life, that’s okay as long as you’re not over 20. You can create reasons to love maths. Probably to make you smarter. You could create other interests, passing a subject or a course depends mostly on you.

LISTEN MORE ATTENTIVELY IN CLASS

This is an unpopular truth, but if you want to pass any subject or course you must attend classes and not just attend classes but also pay attention. Some of the things the teacher or lecturer would say, are going to come out in your exams. Especially if he says something like “Listen carefully” or “It’s not on your note” This is something you’ve heard before, but it’s the truth. Another reason why you should pay attention in class is when you listen to a teacher, not just listening, understanding, and asking questions in class. You won’t forget. It is probably not something that works big time for everyone but it works. Then when you go home and read, my dear, forgetting it isn’t an issue. During exams, you’d remember most of the things the Lecturer said. Especially if you were actively participating in class. So don’t be shy, ask questions, and make contributions, and you’d surely pass.

REVISE THE COURSE OR SUBJECT

It’s just a catchy way to say study. Even if you don’t want to. I don’t know how best to spell it out, but once you forget a subject it will forget you, once it forgets you, you will fall. Times that are best to study.

1. After the teacher has taught: when you get back home and have rested.
2. probably a week or two weeks later.
3. any other time you want.
4. before the exams.

Don’t make excuses by saying the subjects are much, make a timetable, and be disciplined enough to see it through. No one can teach you how to be disciplined, it’s a personal decision.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO STUDY FOR HOURS

I know our teachers have probably bragged about studying for five hours, six hours, etc and they expect you to do the same. But the truth is, even if you study from now until eternity, if you don’t understand what you are reading, you are just stressing yourself unnecessarily.
I am not saying it’s not okay to do so, but that’s not for everyone. As long as you are true to yourself, and you understand what you studied, you can stop or take a break.
Look for better methods to help you.
Ask a friend that you know, understand the subject better than yourself.
Watch videos on that particular topic (I do this very well)
Read articles on it.
Pretend you’re teaching someone the subject, so you’d read like you’re going to teach.

In conclusion, school isn’t a scam. No subject is greater than you. If you want to pass a subject you will. It is up to you to make that decision.

WRITTEN BY FAVOUR AWANA

If asked to identify someone bold and daring in fashion Bianca Censori would be at the top of my list. The wife of American rapper Ye (Kanye West) has pushed the envelope regarding celebrity public fashion. Almost every time you see her name trending you can guess it’s because of our outfit.

Her almost nude outfit has rightfully raised the question of whether she’s safe. When she walks with her husband, Ye, he’s seen mostly covered and her the opposite. Of course, this isn’t new for people in fashion as they are seen with outfits that can only be worn once and are overboard for daily fashion choices Examples include Kirsten Stewart, Coi Leray and others.

Bianca Censori and Kanye West have been married for over a year. Their marriage happened within a year of Ye’s divorce from Kim Kardashian. Bianca, an Australian architect and entrepreneur, was allegedly employed at Yeezy before they both got married.

Here are some of Bianca Censori’s iconic and daring fashion outfits:

In the kitchen…

To Cheesecake Factory…

In the bathroom…

In the corridor…

Tiger

No pants this year…

On Brand…?

Reminds you something?