As Told by Kiki Kamanu
Lupita Nyongo shared a cute bag on her social media page, during her recent trip to Lagos. Imagine seeing the name of your hometown proudly flagged on a bold and beautiful fashion piece, and adorned by one of the most profilic black actresses of this generation. I fell in love with Kiki Kamanu almost inmediately. And wait until you see their Wakanda bags!
Kiki Kamanu, named after its brand owner, is described as distinctive chic. The brand prides itself in well-crafted, exclusive creations. For more information, visit www.shop.kikikamanu.com.
There's so much to love about this brand. I've shared 3 of my favourite pieces below- check out their website and let me know your thoughts!
#Lagos Fave Things Leather Trim Tote (tan)
#Wakanda Fave Things Leather Trim Tote
Velvet Appliqué Luv Lagos Hoodied Hi-low
Follow @kikikamanu on Instagram!
Jenny Holloway to host a discussion on 'What is an ethical factory'
Jenny Holloway has been working in the fashion industry for over thirty years; both in the private and public sector.
Pharrell’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales
Pharrell's announced it will be offering 50% during Black Friday Sales and 70% on Cyber Monday on your entire order.
Pharrell’s Launches His Clothing Line With The Prince's Trust
This week clothing line pharrell’s, Peter Jones 'form protege' will be launching its range on The Prince’s Trusts’ TOMORROW’s Store Online in time for Black Friday and the Christmas season.
Summer Blues
Nothing invigorates me more then a clear blue sky, that first peak in the morning at that blue sky puts a smile on my face. Because I know that it brings with it the promise of a magnificent day full of adventure, new possibilities and endless fun and pleasure. Blue in all its glorious shades are the perfect pick-me-up colour to re-energise your wardrobe.
The lighter shade, Niagra Denim blue rocks you gently into a sweet state of relaxation. This soft blue shade, is versatile and a comfortable colour to wear whether it is for daytime fun or office wear, as it a can be easily matched with either bold, pastel or muted colours.
Chambray Dress with Short Ruffled Sleeves @ La Redoute
Strappy Double Layer Dress @ Oliver Bonas
Blue Lace Shift Dress @ Dorothy Perkins
The darker more richer Lapis Blue is a much more stronger and confident shade. It is gorgeous in its depth of colour. Perfect for something a bit more formal like special occasion evening wear.
Cold Shoulder Ruffle Dress @ Simply Be
The last shade of blue will transport you to your own Island Paradise, Aqua Blue. This shade is exhilarating with is green undertone. A beautiful colour on its own but it comes alive when paired with white or even a deep see green for a sophisticated look or with orange for a more playful look.
Frill Trim Wrap Front Dress @ New Look
Tie Dye Skirt @ East
Do stock up on your favourite shade of Blue it will perk you up on those not so clear blue sky days. Whether it is new dress, a pair of shoes or accessories. Big or small just as long as it is something Blue to transport you to a happy place.
AW Trends
We are in the last month of summer and as much as we hate to think of autumn/winter, we cannot avoid it because it is coming. But at least we be prepared. So maybe knowing what to expect, you will be a bit more excited about Autumn /Winter.
Bomber jacket has already been a rage all summer season and they are back for another season
For the colder seasons, we see this much loved item updated with sequins, embroidery and prints to elevate if from a key piece into a can’t-do-without item.
Available @ www.glamorous.com
Available @ www.next.co.uk
Another great love of the summer season, the cold shoulder, is back to rule the new season with variations ranging from super cool sexy dresses to knitwear for edgy street wear.
Available @ www.riverisland.com
Available @ www.newlook.com
Making a comeback from the 90s, the minimalist slip dress is here to stay. Take your pick from delicate lace trims, to dainty florals, and classic spaghetti straps.
Available @ www.rivierisland.com
Available @ www.riverisland.com
Available @ www.missselfridge.com
No A/W season is complete without velvet. The key fabric for the season and no matter how you wear it, crushed, colored, top-to-toe, just make sure that you have something velvet in your new season wardrobe.
Available @ www.primark.com
Available @ www.riverisland.com
Another one from the 90s is the choker, this season it is back to make a statement and you will love it.
Available @ www.newlook.com
Available @ www.riverisland.com
Seems like we just cannot get enough of them, platform boots and chunky heels. This season we will love them even more as they have been given a new lease on life for A/W 16 in Black suede and velvet making is super-hot especially on those cold days.
Available @ www.newlook.com
Available @ www.newlook.com
Sustainable Style
Maison de Mode, a US-based online luxury fashion retailer, prides itself in showcasing fashion that represents sustainability. Unfortunately, sustainability has been an ambiguous word thrown around to make products more appealing to consumers, lobbyists and other members of the public. But what does it really mean? Is sustainability relatable and directly linked to the consumer? And the big question for fashionistas- is style comprised on the platfotform of ethical standards in fashion?
Maison de Mode does a great job in bridging the gap between consumers and such standards: it is now easier to understand how your every day fashion choices can make an impact in our society and environment- without all the sustainability jargon!
See what it's designers are doing to earn the sustainability badge:
Achu Parpat Vintag (by Mola Sasa)
Mola Sasa used artisanal techniques with beautiful intricate woven details in this bag. Creating handmade pieces means artisans can compete in a world of homogenised mass production. Let's not forget the recycled materials used, which means we can be more responsible for the materials we consume.
Kimono Dress Shirt (by Maiyet)
It's great when high-end designers promote small, artisanal designers. Many companies take advantage of work factories in developing countries- it's nice to see that individual designers and dress makers can be paid decently for what they do- without compromising on quality. Maiyet also donate a portion of their proceeds to ocean-related charities. Not bad!

Oversized long coat (by Shipper)
Shipper partners with organisations that help sustainable businesses which allows them to grow and make profits. So as you lavish yourself in this tweed coat, you'll feel even better knowing that you also contributed to the success of other sustainable businesses!
What are your thoughts on sustainable businesses in fashion?