Category: Fashion

  • Lara Rawa back with cocktail week

    By Kehinde OLULEYE

    Lara Rawa, a trained lawyer turned mixologist and the brains behind Lagos Cocktail Week, which  specialises in creating distinctive cocktails and custom mixology is back with this year’s annual Africa’s largest cocktail experience, Lagos Cocktail Week 2019 (LCW). The event is scheduled to take place from October 16 to October 17, 2019.

    The Lagos Cocktail initiative serves as a platform for celebrating and promoting the cocktail culture in Nigeria through events, seminars and training sessions, among others. The founder’s aspiration is for cocktails and the cocktail industry at large to be recognised as an integral part of the Nigerian beverage industry.

  • Davido turns philanthropist

    Kehinde OLULEYE

    Nigeria’s top music act, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, a few days ago declared his support for the good work that motherless babies homes have been doing over the years.

    Davido, who has just signed a deal to be an ambassador for Mario and Juliet baby diapers and wipes, said he will buy the products in large quantities and give them to motherless babies homes and orphanages.

    He set tongues wagging while signing the deal by declaring that his unborn son will exclusively wear this particular brand of baby diapers and wipes.

    His utterance could be an indication that the music star is expecting a baby boy from his partner, Chioma. Some weeks back, Davido had started a kind of celebration when he confirmed that Chioma was pregnant. At the deal-signing ceremony, Davido also said that the delivery date was not too far away.

    Mr Cletus Oragwa, Chairman of the baby diaper company, said it took three years for them to get Davido!

  • Billionaire businesswoman Shagaya hits 60

    Kehinde OLULEYE

    It has been an outpouring of love and affection for billionaire businesswoman Hajia Bola Shagaya as she turned 60 on Thursday. Although the dogged businesswoman hails from Ilorin, Kwara State, she has lived the larger part of her life in Lagos.

    Some years ago, the graduate of Accountancy and Economics from Armstrong College in California and Harvard Business School opted out of her job in the Central Bank to start a business which today runs across different sectors of the Nigerian economy.

    We hear that a party will be held today in Lagos to celebrate her 60th birthday.

  • Senator Akanbi surprises wife with early morning birthday toast

    Kehinde OLULEYE

    Oyo State senator, Adesoji Akanbi, gladdened his wife’s heart on Thursday by waking her up to a birthday toast. An inside source said the senator set the mood for the days’ celebration when he read out a poetic toast to his wife and top businesswoman, Hajia Zikrah Afolake Aduke Akanbi, and followed it up with an early morning prayer and breakfast birthday party.

    Part of the toast he read to his wife stated: “A bond with another person truly unique spices up existence. It gives life new meaning and makes it more exciting. Not everyone has that rare opportunity to be blessed with a woman who spreads joy and positivity around him. When you have that special gift, you have built a great team. I am lucky.

    “As a fresh day bubbles with fresh hope, I am always full of joy that I have a joy that is rare like a four- leaf clover plant. My joy is with me through thick and thin and has continued to offer a therapy money can’t buy. I really appreciate you.

    “When I think of the unforgettable moments we share, I continue to praise God for the exquisite glow that you cast on me and for being an elixir of hope of greater days to come.

    “It’s your birthday today, a two-step after the golden jubilee line. I wish you a birthday that is as extraordinary as your person. I hereby toast to a brighter, healthier and a promising future for us together.”

    Hajia Zikrah Afolake Aduke Akanbi is the Yeye Okanlomo of Ibadan Land and the Erelu Faderera of Erunwon  Ijebu.

  • Enter showbiz’s fabulous grandmums

    Kehinde OLULEYE

    This week’s array of showbiz stars have a few things in common. Some are hot, some are fresh and many attract admiring glances at most social events. They are some of the entertainment industry’s biggest stars, ageing very well and gracefully.

    Gone are the days when grandmas look old-fashioned and haggard. These hot grannies are comfortable with being called grandma in public and at their age; the old beauties are still going strong!

    At an age when many of their contemporaries have slowed down a bit or entirely, they are still on top of their games: beautiful, gorgeous and playing the role of grandmothers to the hilt.

    Taiwo Ajayi-Lycet

    Acclaimed international actress, Taiwo Ajayi-Lycet, is a journalist, television presenter, and cosmetologist. She’s also a feminist and was the first editor of Africa Woman magazine in the 70s.

    Idowu Philips

    Idowu Philips, widely known as Iya Rainbow, is a Nigerian veteran actress who has monopolised the twin roles of mother and grandmother for years in some of our biggest movies.

    Madam Awero

    Veteran actress, Lanre Hassan Adesina, popularly known in the Yoruba theatre circle as Madam Awero, has many movies to her credit and is one of Nollywood’s most famous faces.

    Onyeka Owenu

    Nigerian celebrated singer, Onyeka Owenu, popularly called Elegant Stallion, is also a songwriter, actress, human rights activist, social activist, journalist, politician, recording artist and X Factor series judge.

    Patience Ozokwor

    Patience Ozokwor, popularly known as Mama G, is a Nigerian actress, musician, fashion designer and gospel singer. She was among 100 Nigerians honoured by the government to celebrate the amalgamation of the northern and southern protectorates in 2014.

    Rachel Oniga

    Veteran Nigerian actress is one of Nollywood’s most famous faces. Fluent in both Yoruba and English, she is the perfect example of a successful crossover artist.

    Madam Kofo

    Veteran Nollywood actress, Abiola Atanda, better known as Madam Kofo, stands out because of her signature headgear. She is also a very good actress.

    Joke Muyiwa

    Joke Muyiwa is a veteran Nollywood actress, motivational speaker  and academic staff at Olabisi Onabanjo University in the department of Performing Arts.

    Clarion Chukwura

    Veteran Nollywood actress and humanitarian, Clarion Chukwura, was one of Nigeria’s hottest showbiz personalties at a time. And the years have not dimmed her lustre. She is still active within the industry where her son, Clarence, also operates as a very successful director.

    Ireti Doyle

    Ireti Doylel is a Nigerian actress, producer, presenter and writer. Doyle’s presence is quite prominent in Nollywood and she has an impressive ability to interpret simple and complex roles.

    Toyin Afolayan

    Toyin Afolayan is a Nigerian film actress, popularly known as Lola Idije, and she’s an aunt to Nigerian film actor Kunle Afolayan. Afolayan is a force to be reckoned with in the Yoruba movie genre.

    Joke Silva

    Joke Silva is no doubt an icon in the Nigerian movie industry. She is an actress, director and businesswoman. Silva is one of Nigeria’s most successful and recognisable actresses.

    Iya Ereko

    Veteran Nollywood (Yoruba) actress, Morenike Alausa Sulaimon aka Iya Ereko.

    Fausat Balogun

    Fausat Balogun , popularly known as Madam Saje,  is a Nigerian actress who stars majorly in Yoruba movies. She starred as Mama Saje in a 1990 television series titled, Erin Kee Kee.

    Iyabo Oko

    Kudirat Odukanwi is a seasoned Yoruba actress, popularly known as  Iyabo Oko. She  stars hilarious hilarious roles that amuse.

    Mama Ray

    Mama Ray, a Nollywood actress, is the spouse of Eyinwunmi Ray, who was a great pioneer of the Yoruba theatre industry before moving to home video. Mama Ray is a successful actress in her own right.

    Salawa Abeni (Alidu)

    Legendary Waka Queen,Salawa Abeni Alidu, popularly known as Queen Salawa Abeni, is a well-known name in the music industry and the exponent of a Fuji genre known as Waka.

    Ayo Balogun

    Queen Ayo Balogun is a popular female Juju Musician and President of the Association of Juju Musicians in Nigeria.

  • Behold medical doctors, engineers in showbiz

    LAST week, we gave you a peep into the professional backgrounds of our celebs whose professions are in the humanities. This week, we will be showcasing celebs whose educational backgrounds are in the other side of the academic divide.

    Of course, it is easy to think that some of our biggest and most successful stars in showbiz have a backgrounds in the arts. Nigerian actors and actresses may not feature regularly in Hollywood movies or feature regularly on top chats, but still they are masters of the game. They are master interpreters of simple and complex roles and crooners of the highest caliber.

    So, you may be forgiven if you thought that your favourite celebs either studied theater arts or went straight to the studio after high school. Wrong! The backgrounds of our celebs are very diverse.

    Some of our biggest stars have science, engineering, medical and technology education and degrees. For example, Banky W studied engineering, while Kiki Omeili,

    Beautiful Nubia and Dr Sid have medical degrees.

    Some like Kate Henshaw and Beautiful Nubia actually practised for some time before dabbling into the world of showbiz. So, here are celebrities who also ditched their first love for showbiz.

    Banky W

    Nigerian artist, actor and politician Olubankole Wellington aka Banky W, the Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) boss popularly known as Banky W is perhaps best known for his role in the film “The Wedding Party” and in the music industry, both of which were incredibly successful.  He studied Industrial Engineering at Rensselaer University in New York. Banky W has a reputation for interpreting his roles well. Besides being a successful musician in his own right, he is also a successful artiste management expert. So, it may surprise you to know that his background is in engineering.

    Okey Bakassi

    The former Senior Special Adviser on Entertainment Matters to the past Imo State Governor, Ikedi Ohakim, Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, popularly known as Okey Bakassi, is a Nigerian stand-up comedian and actor. He’s a graduate of Agricultural Engineering from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), Port Harcourt.

    Kate Henshaw – Medical Microbiology

    Kate Henshaw shot to fame as a model, and has since grown her brand and wealth with television and film roles. After completing her primary and secondary school in Lagos and Calabar, she spent one year at the University of Calabar for remedial studies and then majored in Medical Microbiology at the School of Medical Lab Science, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). Henshaw worked for some time at the Bauchi State General Hospital.

    Eldee

    Nigerian rapper, record producer and architect Lanre Dabiri, popularly known by his stage name Eldee, is an architect with a Masters Degree from the University of Lagos, Nigeria.

    Kiss Daniels

    Nigerian artist and Woju crooner-Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe aka Kiss Daniels has a degree in Water Resources Management and Agrometeorology (Water Engineering) from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

    Dr Sid

    Popular Nigerian singer and song writer, Sidney Onoriode Esiri, well-known as Dr Sid, completed a Dental Surgery course/degree at the Universit y of Ibadan (UI) before pursuing his passion in entertainment.

    Kiki Omeili

    The next person on our list of celebrities with degrees in the medical field is a graduate of medicine, this time from University of Lagos. Omeili began performing in stage plays all through her primary and secondary school years. This continued when she got into the university as she was a member of the drama club and acted in various productions as well as taking part in several drama competitions. In 2006, she obtained a medical degree from the College of Medicine, University of Lagos.

    Beautiful Nubia

    Nigerian songwriter, music composer and band leader Segun Akinlolu, popularly known as Beautiful Nubia, graduated from the University of Ibadan with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1992 and practised as a veterinary doctor for about eight years. He also holds a Post-Graduate Diploma from the Nigeria Institute of Journalism.

    Tonto Dikeh

    Nigerian actress, singer and humanitarian Tonto Dikeh, known to many as Poko, Tontolet, Mama King and King Tonto. Tonto Dikeh got an early taste of fame when she starred in a movie titled “Dirty Secret”, which generated controversy among Nigerians due to its adult scenes. Dikeh studied Petrochemical Engineering at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology.

    Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha

    Chukwuka’s acting career began with her debut in the movie “The Apple” in 2000 and has since bolstered her fame and wealth with television and film roles. She hails from Oraifite, Ekwusigo Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria, but born in Lagos State. She completed her primary education at Onward Nursery and Primary School in Lagos State, and then proceeded to the Federal Government Girls College in Onitsha, Anambra State, for her secondary education. She then headed to Lagos State University, where she studied Banking and Finance.

  • NU MI showcases best of Nigeria interior, product designs

    The best of Nigeria’s interior and product designers will exhibit their products from 21st September to 22nd September in Lagos.

    The exhibition is the initiative of NU MI Design House, the integrated interior, procurement, bespoke furniture manufacturer and homeware product designer.

    Nigerian art, according to the organisers, has captured the imagination of a global audience and introduced a new generation of world-renowned artists to an eager public. But far less known, and equally innovative, is the emerging Nigerian design sector and a range of creative collaborations between art and design are taking it to a new level.

    To showcase this unique new sector, NU MI Design House is curating the NU MI Design Exhibition, featuring a combination of leading Nigerian artists alongside established and emerging Nigerian furniture and other product designers and a unique selection of NU MI founder, Tanwa Newbold’s own work that includes a stunning collaboration with artist Polly Alakija.

    Building on 2018’s first edition hosted at the Oando Wings building, the 2019 NU MI Design Exhibition will take place at LASWA Yard, Falomo Jetty, the new headquarters of maritime Lagos.

    Read Also: Erelu to fashion designers: don’t imitate others

    It features works from product designers like Studio Lani, Tosin Oshinowo, Alaga Collections, Funferekoroye, Kelechi Odu and Oguma Adegoke alongside renowned artists Polly Alakija, Ghariokwu Lemi, Olumide Onadipe and a curated selection from the Nike Art Gallery.

    Speaking at the launch, Creative Director and Founder, Tanwa Newbold, said: “Whether you are looking for the luxury of a world-renowned furniture producer, the highest quality local design and production or African-inspired unique homeware, the NU MI Design Exhibition has something for you. We are privileged to be able to bring together so many talented designers, and I am hugely encouraged by the innovation and creativity that is coming out of Nigeria at the moment.

    “At NU MI, we combine contemporary interior design, with the ability to produce or procure unique pieces, specifically designed to suit your vision. We believe that in a world where choice and flexibility is increasingly important to consumers, we are able to offer a service that maximises your ability to achieve your vision, whether you want to source locally, or internationally.”

    The event is supported by LASWA, the owners of the Yard venue, Bank of Industry, Plascon Paints and La Connaisseur, the exclusive concept store for wine lovers.

  • Timeless floral trend

    DO you know the latest fashion in town, when it comes to ladies’ dress (gown, skirt and top)? If you have been following the fashion trend, you would have noticed that the latest ladies’ dress in vogue is the floral looks. And it is getting hotter by day. The floral dress is the fashion must-have this season. Believe it; it is for ladies of class and fashion.

    Beautiful and stylish floral prints are in vogue. They are remarkably apparent this season and add a subtle and sexy appeal to one’s look. Floral print comes in different patterns and designs, depending on the style. Go for prints that complement your frame.

    Styling tips

    • Use a brooch to bring more attention to your outfit.
    • You can use a belt to accentuate your waist, though it depends on the design.
    • Go for a clutch purse to glam-up the outfit.
    • And a patent shoe to make you look sleek.
    • A sleeveless floral blouse could be a perfect accompaniment to your business suit while remaining professional.
    • Try switching out your solid pencil skirt for a printed cotton sateen pencil skirt in a floral pattern. Then pair your printed skirt with a solid peep-toes and blazer for a chic look.
    • Although floral patterns can be bright, bold and busy, you can easily tone down your floral pattern by adding a little bit of control to your look. For example, top a floral dress with a cool jacket.
    • Since floral accessories can add a feminine touch to your look. Try pairing your wardrobe-staple black pants with a floral shoe. Or try some floral flats with your slim-cut jeans, tailored Bermuda shorts or solid skirt.
    • Add instant flair to your look by mixing a floral clutch bag with a solid cocktail dress, or a floral tote bag for casual wear.
  • Kings and queens of endorsement

    Celebrity endorsement is the mother of all side hustles. In recent times, it has guaranteed a steady stream of hefty income for our biggest celebs with some of them earning as seven or eight digit sign-on fees.

    Once an individual reaches a celebrity status, be it in music, sports, acting or comedy, he is at the point of hitting it big.  Brands, intent on connect in with their existing customers and attract new ones, are always quick to get celebrities aboard to help them promote their products.

    Several successful companies are happy to invest in a famous face because it guarantees an exponential jump in sales in the long run. Companies around the world also use celebrities endorsement to communicate their brand ideals to particular sets of customers and win market share.

    When selecting a celebrity endorser, a company might consider the credibility, physical appearance, intellectual weight, lifestyle and fan base.

    This week, we serve you celebrities who have landed the most lucrative endorsement deals in the business, including the corporate concerns, home appliances, cosmetic, equipment, clothing, food industries and lots more.

    Funke Akindele aka Jenifa

    Funke Akindele, popularly known as jenifa, is known for her success with sponsored ads and recently is believed to have made more money from brand partnerships than from her acting career. Apart from her major deal with a real estate brand, she is also a brand ambassador of a popular product. Idowu Philips

    Idowu Philips, widely known as Iya Rainbow, is a Nigerian veteran actress who has monopolised the twin roles of mother and grandmother for years in some of biggest movies.

    Ngozi Nwosu

    Veteran Nigerian actress and producer Nwosu has many movies to her credit and is one of Nollywood’s most famous faces.

    Helen Paul

    Helen Paul, aka Alhaja Donjazzy, who recently bagged a Ph.D in Theatre Arts from the prestigious University of Lagos is a comedian, singer and actress.

    Saka

    Afeez Oyetoro is a Nigerian comic actor and lecturer,  popularly known as Saka. Saka’s first big endorsement deal was with a telecom firm. He has since notched other deals.

    Odunlade Adekola

    Odunlade Adekola is a Nigerian actor, singer, film-maker, producer and movie director. He is arguably the most celebrated Yoruba movie actor in the industry at the moment. There is hardly a day that a movie featuring him doesn’t appear on our screen. He has quite a few endorsement deals.

    Olamide

    Nigerian hip hop recording artist, song writer and producer, ecords mostly in Yoruba, his native tongue. Olamide Adedeji known by his stage name Olamide but popularly called Olamide Baddo or BaddoSneh is one of the biggest Yoruba hippop artistes of his generation.

    Phyno

    When it comes to endorsements, Nigerian artist, producer and song writer, actor and the most popular igbo rapper, Phyno, is a master. He has a few good endorsements in the bag.

    Dbanj

    Popular Nigerian musician-Dbanj has everything in his favour: good looks, gorgeous body, a winsome smile and several musical hits. No wonder endorsements have not stopped rolling in, even if he has not been very active in the music scene in recent times. Dbanj is still shinning.

    Omawunmi

    Omawumi Megbele, known by her stage name Omawumi, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who gained attention as the 2007 runner-up on West African Idols, a reality TV show part of the Idols franchise but has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry with

    Genevieve Nnaji

    One of Nollywood’s veteran and most recognisable actresses, Genevieve  Nnaji, is a Nigerian actor, producer and director. Nnaji has starred in quite a few blockbusters. The extremely photogenic actress is every brand’s dream.

    Wizkid

    Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun (born 16 July 1990), known professionally as Wizkid (sometimes stylised as WizKid), is one of Nigeria’s biggest hippop stars.

    Davido

    The Omo Baba Olow crooner, David Adedeji Adeleke better known by his stage name Davido, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, record producer and entrepreneur.

    Burna Boy

    Nigerian international Afro-fusion singer and songwriter Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy. Burna has been in the news recently for his very successful album, African Giant.

    Tiwa Savage

    Tiwatope Savage, Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress, known professionally as Tiwa Savage, is a hardworking and highly talented music super star.

  • Look glamorous in jumpsuit!

    In the last few months, jumpsuit fashion has gradually found its way back into the scene, even if it is not as daring as it used to be. These days, it is not uncommon seeing designers splashing colourful and stylish jumpsuit designs in sheer slinky fabrics, ruffle, lace trimming and slips. Jumpsuit dresses are versatile pieces and accordingly, they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

    This soft, feminine look is very much in right now and of course, it adds volume to your hips! Jumpsuits are a great wardrobe piece!

    How to rock jumpsuits trend

    • For a semi-formal evening-style with some dressy sandals and a tantalizing handbag.
    • When wearing jumpsuit consider accessorizing with a skinny belt, as this will further accentuate that hourglass shape.
    • Add a pair of stylish over-sized earrings to make a chic and lasting statement.
    • Avoid a jumpsuit that has motive, but choose plain or neutral colours. This way you will radiate an aura of glamour and elegance to your look. However, it is important to pay attention to the waist and buttocks while choosing a jumpsuit.
    • To look smart and trendy you can wear a gorgeous belt on a straight-cut jumpsuit. For those who have long legs and tall body, you can look for something that makes you free and fabulous. But for women who have short legs, it’s worth using calf- length jumpsuit to make your legs look longer.
    • Also, you need to make sure that you wear a jumpsuit that fits especially in the second section.