Bugging leather high - Coccinelle

BY OYINDAMOLA LAWAL
WHEN it comes to making lasting accessories, nothing can replace leather. Little wonder fashion conscious women go the extra length to get them.
   Despite the on-going animal rights campaign against leather, demand for the material for bags is on the increase.
 Experts say the best way to maintain leather bag is to avoid moisture and make it free from fungus. Whenever it’s dirty, wipe it with clean cloth and expose it to sunlight if it had not been used for a long time.
   Lagos top clothier, Mobos, a store known for labels such as Mystique, Rene Derhy and Dumond, has recently launched Spring Summer 2010 collections of an Italian brand leader in the production of bags and accessories, Coccinelle.
   The launching, which held at The Palms Shopping Centre, Lekki, showcased a range of quality Coccinelle bags, sunglasses and wristwatches and others.
    The collections range from a chic bowling bag to an ultra flat shopper, a fold over clutch bag and an oversize shopper, a tote, a purse with a shoulder strap and wallets.
   Coccinelle, which stands for “ladybug” in Italian language, expresses the irresistible charm of a cosmopolitan woman.

Clogs resurface with style

 By Oyindamola Lawal
    With the rains around most people, especially ladies, are worried about their shoes. But with clogs making a come back such worries are over.
  As noisy, uncomfortable and chunky as they are, clogs have resurfaced with unique looks. 
  For some, when the shoe is mentioned, the ugly, brown wooden footwear quickly appears in their minds.
  But with the re-emergence all that has changed as it now has a stylish and modern look that gives the edge on the 2010 runway as the biggest footwear for the season.
   Though, chic are always looking for something new, and sensual; however, this season’s clogs are fashionable to go with frill mini-dresses and shorts that will always get you noticed.
   They look great with girly dresses, tights and even cute shorts and tops.

Nicki Minaj Drops Hint about her Debut Album

Rapper Nicki Minaj took to Ustream last night and revealed the title of her highly anticipated debut album. The Young Money rapper has dubbed her debut album Pink Friday, set for release on November 23, the Tuesday before Black Friday in the U.S. That is traditionally the biggest shopping day of the year when Americans flock to stores to begin their Christmas shopping. "To carry on a great tradition of Black Friday, we are going to switch it up this year in honor of the Nicki Minaj album and call that day Pink Friday, and call my album Pink Friday," Nicki announced in her British accent. She then signed off with her signature greeting. 
  Young Money’s Nicki Minaj made her name as a chameleon, with an ever-changing look and a pliable character enhancing tracks from Usher, Mariah Carey, and Christina Aguilera, just to name a few.

  With her debut album, she’s finally making a solo splash, and this week rode addictively-Autotuned second single “Your Love” to No. 1 on Billboard’s rap charts. The track samples the 1995 Annie Lennox hit “No More I Love Yous,” but Minaj — who was a pre-teen when that song came out — says she barely knows Lennox’s music. “I was a fan of her fashion,” Minaj says. “I was so little [in her heyday], so I just remember her image. That particular song stood out, because that beat is insane.”
  She’ll happily elaborate on the project as a whole. “The album is much more emotional than you anticipate, which is a great thing,” Minaj says. “And I know women are gonna connect to the album so much. I felt like for so many years I was the girl who did the catchy little raps, and it’s time for me now to tell my story, and in telling my story, I’m really telling every girl’s story. We all go through the same thing. So the album is gonna feel very personal to every female.”
 

Michael Vick Escapes Disciplinary Action over Birthday Club Shooting

Philadelphia Eagles player Michael Vick will not face any disciplinary action following him allegedly being involved in a shooting after his birthday party at a nightclub in Virginia Beach back in June, says the National Football League. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell personally informed Vick of his decision yesterday (Tues. Aug 3) at the Eagles’ training camp in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

“Commissioner Goodell informed Michael Vick there will be no disciplinary action as a result of the incident in Virginia, based on his current understanding of the facts. Commissioner Goodell spoke several weeks ago by phone with Michael, Tony Dungy, and Eagles coach Andy Reid. All were in agreement on the need for additional support measures to be added to Michael’s plan to enhance his opportunity to succeed in life and football. These additional steps will remain confidential, but they will require Michael to meet even higher standards.”

Police say Vick won’t be charged due to a lack of cooperation by witnesses and the victim, Quanis Phillips, a co-defendant in Vick’s federal dog fighting case. Mike and the NFL Commissioner spoke on the phone following the shooting incident, but yesterday was their first face-to-face meeting. Goodell said:

“He understands the responsibility he has and the position he’s in, and he has to make good decisions,” Goodell said. “I want him to understand that he’s in a different position than others and because of that he has to protect himself differently, and he recognizes that, I think, and hopefully he’s going to make good decisions moving forward.

“A large part of our message is going to be the additional support we want to provide, helping him make better decisions, including mentoring, guidance and support we think we can provide him both at the league level and at the club level

“I think he’s made significant progress. I think he understands his responsibility, he’s been focused on it, but as I’ve said to him a year ago, he can’t afford lapses in judgment. He just can’t afford that. He understands that position he’s in, and he needs to make sure that he’s held to that high standard.”

Vick is scheduled to speak to reporters after practice today. But we’re glad he got out of this one okay! He just needs to be a little bit more careful in the future…

Washington Roberts showcased his Latest Trends

New York-based Nigerian designer, Washington Roberts has carved an niche for himself in the international market. He left the shore of Nigeria upon collection of his high school and faced with the unique challenges in the USA, was able to create a niche. Welcome to the world of contemporary fashion designer, Washington Roberts.
 From a very young age, Roberts began the hobby that would later become his career and passion. Born in West Africa on January 12, Washington was raised by his grandmother, Beatrice, a devout seamstress whose influence on Washington would later impact his life and his career. Beatrice’s attention to detail, steady hand and highly coveted seamstress skills were absorbed and practiced by young Washington, who adored his grandmother and watched her carefully. Throughout his childhood and to this day Washington’s grandmother has always been the biggest inspiration for him.
Inspirations for his Latest Collections
  My latest collection has been designed and crafted entirely by me. For this collection, photos of beach rocks inspired me. The shape and the layering of the stones on top of one another made me think of drapes. The textures of the beach rocks also induced me combining different fabrics together. Fabrics such silk and wool, silk jersey and Crepe back satin silk.
 All colors used were colors of the rocks. I also envisioned that the wearer of my designs, the women who are strong and beautiful as the rocks on the beach, would bring life to the sensuous and colorful creations that I have designed. I hope you feel as inspired by my designs as I have been while creating them
His Bio
Although fashion was always a big part of Washington’s life, it was never in his career agenda. Washington attended Igbobi College Yaba in Lagos, Nigeria and upon graduation relocated to the United States to continue his graduate studies. While studying chemical engineering, He decided to start designing clothes as a hobby. His first piece was a blazer for himself to wear on his 23rd birthday party. The jacket was a hit amongst the party guests. It was the topic of conversation throughout the night, and a wake up call for the designer who realized that his true passion and talent was in fashion.

In the past few years since his 23rd birthday party, Washington has featured his designs in numerous New York fashion shows, several issues of Hype Hair Magazine and on Envision Style & Substance during NYC Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Washington takes pride in all of his creations and picks the finest materials and the best colors. He designs pieces that compliment the women’s body and accentuate

Isio De-La' Vega graced "RUNWAY" cover

Have you seen this? if not watch out for the first Runway Magazine in Nigeria. Guess What? Top model, creative designer, Fashion Designer and G-bam presenter Isio De-La' Vega graced "RUNWAY" cover

Mary J. Blige Launches New “My Life” Fragrance

 R&B queen Mary J. Blige has now joined the long list of Hollywood celebrities with fragrances, including Mariah Carey, Britney Spears, Beyonce, Halle Berry and Sarah Jessica Parker, as the "Just Fine" star has teamed with Carol's Daughter to release My Life - a scent paying tribute to the confident woman.

   Infused with floral, wood, and fruit fragrances, women will enjoy its light scent that lasts all day long. Blige says that “I’ve named the scent ‘My Life’ because it’s not what we are; it’s what we’ve shared . . . My life is my journey and I’ve always shared it through my music. I can’t wait to share my story with millions of women through HSN.”

Blige says, "It's a special tribute to us as women . . . we're soft, we're edgy - we're all those things. And I wanted this perfume to represent every female's everyday life."

  Named after her 1994 hit album My Life, Blige says the fragrance "is the epitome of a confident woman. It doesn't scream out for attention. It's feminine but strong, powerful yet humble. It is 'my life'."

Mary explained the significance of the My Life album to WWD by saying, “I was crying out for help, because I was going through so much and four million women said, ‘Mary, we’re going through it too, but you’re helping us by calling on us.’”

Face of MUD, Genevieve Nnaji..... Hotter Than Fire

OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   I LOVE THIS.
Genevieve is always looking young, classy, simple, pretty and cute. At the last Encomium White and Black party, I really loved her choice of outfit. You know, that simple Little Black Dress that would just stands you out in the crowd. She was just looking gorgeous and unique.
  If that was not enough, this pretty lady was looking stunning in her one-shoulder Little White Dress at the Lagos Premier of Ije recently. Go girl....... You Rock....
   Apart from the fact that one of Nigeria’s top Nollywood actress, Genevieve Nnaji is the face MUD, the Make Up has proven not to be just another colourful range of make up but rather, the line stands out from other make-up brands.
   Whether you dare to be different, prefer polished and professional or simply want an all-natural look, MUD promises quality, long-lasting wearability, flawless application and radiantly accurate color. Alongside their systematic lines, precision tools, how-to guides and insider tips, they have eliminated the frustrating guesswork. Just simple, smart, versatile make-up

Roseline Mopelola Amusu came in at 5th place at Miss Africa USA

   In 2007 Nigerian Mfonobong Essiet emerged Miss Africa USA, years after, several countries have badges that crown. Though this year, Miss Nigeria, Roseline Mopelola Amusu did not get the crown, however, she was not the last …hipieeeeee.. go Naija
  The pretty damsel, came in at 5th place. I bet you, She is a go-getter. Amusu is not new to pageantry, She has represented Nigeria in the renowned Miss Universe pageant In Bangkok Thailand in 2005 as Most Beautiful girl in Nigeria 1st runner-up. (MISS NIGERIA UNIVERSE)
 Born Febuary 27, 1984, Amusu, a student of Human Science with specialization in International Relations and Diplomacy at the University of South Africa (UNISA has worked for the United Nations in South Africa and Africa Forum for former Head of States and Government in South Africa.
 She’s a founder of a Non-for-profit called the Break Free Foundation International (BFFI). She has launched an amazing project highlighting her platform to fight against child trafficking and child slavery in Africa and the world. She is a victim of this crime and is doing everything to save children from being trafficked or to rescue those who are already child slaves. She plans to continue her work with the Break Free Foundation, which she launched this summer in New York City, to do just that.

Fatoumata (Fifi) Souma Emerged Miss Africa USA 2010-2011

   Miss Fatoumata (Fifi) Souma emerged Miss Africa USA who will reign as Miss Africa USA 2010 - 2011. The 21-years-old damsel, which was crowned at the beautiful Montgomery College Performing Arts Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, on Saturday July 24 2010, was from the Republic of Guinea Conakry.
   Souma is a full time student at Montgomery College with a major in Communication. Fifi's platform is to raise awareness and fight against the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), promote Education of the Girl Child in Guinea and to continue as
a Goodwill Ambassador volunteering for America by teaming up with charitable organizations across the United States to serve needy communities. According to the Judges, Souma had a lot of poise and gleamed with confidence on stage, looked comfortable, is very talented and stood out overall.
   The Pageant weekend kicked off with an elaborate VIP banquet at the University of Maryland Marriott Conference Center while the pageant show took place at Montgomery College Performing Arts Center in Silver Spring, MD. Both events were successful and sold out beyond capacity and we do apologize to those who were turned away because the PAC had no more room for anymore attendees.
   A glimpse at the audience as the National Anthem of the United States of America was being played via audio CD at the Grand finals.  Miss Chinwe Enu from Nigeria followed with the African Anthem " Nkosi Sikelele Africa"and she wowed the audience with her amazing operatic voice.
   In attendance at the Miss Africa events, were African Ambassadors to the United States,
local Elected officials, University Professors, sponsors, special guests, friends and family and the 32 finalists who made it to the grand finals this year, representing different African countries in the United States of America.
    The event was chaired by Valerie Ervin, Vice President of Montgomery County Council who presented a proclamation to the Miss Africa USA Pageant and the African Women's Development Foundation, declaring July 22 -25-2010 as Miss Africa USA Pageant days in Montgomery County, she was present with her Aide Mr. Joseph Eyong who also played a very supportive role in this pageant and directed protocol very well to ensure all dignitaries were taken care of. Mr. Eyong was also instrumental in showcasing Montgomery County to the delegates and their family and friends which is what the pageant also aims to attain by highlighting the host county to the rest of the world. Montgomery County was certainly very welcoming to over 1000 guests who visited from other states, from Africa and Canada as well.
 It was also great to have in the house representatives from the Federal Reserves, thanks to Mr. Wayne Pacine, Senior Inter-agency Project Analyst from the office of Staff Director, Governor of Federal Reserve System in Washington DC.
   Vice President of Montgomery County Council Valerie Ervin and her Aide Mr. Eyong present the Proclamation to the leadership of the pageant: Lady Kate Njeuma, Founder and Executive Producer, Miss Linda Arrey, Pageant Coordinator.
  Also in attendance were the Pageant Patrons all the way from Clayton County Georgia, Honorable Mike Glanton and his beautiful wife Pearla Glanton who have relentlessly supported the pageant over the years. Mrs Glanton presented special gift baskets for all finalists and volunteers.  
   The pageant was hosted by Dr. Aretha Makia, a former beauty Queen from Cameroon who also received the Woman of Valor Award for being an inspiration to young women. She was supported by the following MCs Dr. Emma Osong from Cameroon  and Miss Nunu Wako from Ethiopia.

THE TOP 4 WINNERS FOLLOWING THE QUEEN ARE AS FOLLOWS:
     Miss Natasha Beckley from Sierra Leone, Natasha's goal is to continue working with women in her Sisters for Sisters Campaign.
She aims to continue volunteering with organizations in the US and spreading her humanitarian efforts in Africa and internationally as well. It has also been reported that Miss Beckley will represent Sierra Leone at the upcoming Miss World Contest in China.
Natasha will also serve as the Queen's Deputy as needed.

Miss Priscilla Boateng comes in 3rd place as the 2nd Princess. Priscilla hails from Ghana, she is a graduate, returning to school for a Masters degree in Marketing. Priscilla has adopted a school in her home town in Ghana where she hopes to encourage students to gain knowledge and skills in information technology. She will equip the computer lab and promote interest in IT among students in Ghana. Congratulations Miss Boateng!!!!!!!

The Judges:

Mr. Jerrod Mustaf: President and CEO of Street Basketball Assoc. Former NBA star.

Her Excellency Neneh M Gaye: Former Ambassador of Gambia to the United States of America, a journalist and diplomat by profession and an activist for women's rights and empowerment.

Mrs Sarian Bouma: Commissioner with the Governor of Maryland African Affairs Commission, Author of the book 'From Welfare to Millionaire' and entrepreneur with branded
products in the market.

Mrs Astrid Tasong: Director of Vikings Unlimited, including the Vikings Center, Vikings Floral and Vikings Event Planning based in MD.

Mr. Bertini: Actor and Model based in New York.

Mr. Peter Wairegi: Editor in Chief of African-American Lifestyle Mag
and Motivational Speaker.

Nicola Roberts and Elle Macpherson Judge on Britain Next Top Model

NICOLE ROBERTS

ELLE MACPHERSON

  In 2008, our own Ibukun Jegede was the first African and Nigerian male model to win Britain’s Next Top Model of Colour, which was his first modeling competition. However, over the year the contest has gone bigger and bigger.
  Guess what, the most famous of The Girls Aloud singer, dancer and actress, Nicola Roberts is to be a guest judge on 'Britain's Next Top Model'.

  The Sexy singer who has her own make-up range Dainty Doll will appear alongside presenter and supermodel Elle Macpherson to mentor the modelling hopefuls. She will be seen guiding them through a photo shoot for children's charity Beatbullying   In a preview clip from the upcoming episode, the redhead is heard giving the hopeful stars tips on how to succeed in front on the camera. She said: "The most important thing is that you're able to put as much emotion into your photograph as possible, because I think that the photographs will really help thousands of young people in the UK."
   Nicola and Elle will also be joined by fashion designer Julien MacDonald, stylist Grace Woodward and model Charley Speed in the show's panel.
   The wannabe runway stars will take part in a photoshoot based on the effects of bullying, something Nicola admits is close to her heart.
   The pretty singer previously revealed it took her years to learn to love her pale skin. She said: "I used to be hugely insecure about being pale - if I didn't have a tan I didn't feel attractive. But I realise now that was massively unhealthy."

Lindsay Lohan Launched High Street Leggings

I like..............hmmmmmm....... With a great inspiration from late Marilyn Monroe, the beauty of all time,  and the love Lindsay Lohan have for high street legging style, she launched  her own Legging Collection last year. The 6126 Spring 2010 leggings Collection is mainly featured on dark colours and styles in buttery soft fabrics, classic high waisted looks all exuding sexy confidence. The line also debuts revealing hot shorts and capri length leggings in lace, leather and denim.

Celebrity statement

By OYINDAMOLA LAWAL
WHEN it comes to strutting the red carpet and looking good, celebrities always go extra mile to be on top or among those with the latest trend.
As the ladies showcase their stylish outfits, the dudes also don the scene in unique and classy designs.
At different events, these celebrities were spotted in their looks.


Miss Carnival Lagos
  Sometimes the simplest look makes the greatest impact. At a recent event, Miss Lagos Carnival stepped on a red carpet in a long angelic one-shoulder red empire dress with silver details at the shoulder, her dangling earring

Ex beauty Queen Elizabeth Aisen
  CEO of Beth Modeling Agency, Elizabeth Aisen, recently proved that pregnancy can’t stop any woman from looking good, as she donned breathtaking short sheer little black dress, enhanced with black bag, black and white wrist watch, nude studded peep toe and white necklaces. Her lovely curly human hair weave and simple make up gave her that alluring look.

Etcetera
   Etcetera stepped out in a white button black shirt and a trendy suit. Black is the most versatile and flattering colour, so it can be dressed up or down. The most important staple for every woman’s wardrobe is the little black dress

   Screen queen, Mo Abudu
  The screen queen, Mo Abudu, was also spotted looking stunning on the red carpetwith a short multi-coloured fitted metallic dress.  She complemented her look with a cute lustrous creamy satin ”deco bow’ peep-toe pump and a gold chain handle bag.

Omowunmi Akinnifesi
   At a recent show, the pretty damsel stepped into the red carpet in a vintage lace little black dress with posh puff sleeve and black shoe. Her curly hairstyle, simple make up and silk vintage ruffle clutch gave her a perfect look.

Timi Dakolo
  Timi is fast becoming one of the best-dressed celebrities on the red carpet.  He stole the red carpet glam with a trendy one-button doubled sided flap pocket suit, a dazzling black satin pocket square and neck tie.

Segun Obe
   Segun Obe was seen recently at a show in a straight black stitch detailed jeans and a lovely brown one sided detailed blazer, complemented with a white t-shirt

Skuki
 The duo strutted the red carpet recently, in their black military four-pocket jacket, customized skuki t-short and a trendy satin pant.

 

Sound Sultan
   Sound sultan hit the red carpet in his ninja look with his superman T-shirt, black multi-pocket sleeveless biker jacket worn on a pair of jeans. His camo bike hand glove made us feel he came with a bike.