Take Your Winter Look From Day to Evening
Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash
When talking about winter fashion, most of us gravitate to oversized sweaters, thick coats and bulky scarves.
It’s important to have stylish pieces that not only keep you warm, but also express your personality.
With these women’s winter fashion essentials, you can easily go from running errands during the day, to a night on the town without having to stop at home.
The Classic “Little Black Dress”
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Most women have the classic little black dress tucked away in their closet. In the past, this timeless piece was saved for only the most important events. However, in recent years, the 'LBD' has become a more transitional wardrobe staple.
A unique little black dress can take you from the office to an evening soiree effortlessly. While at the office, try wearing a white button down blouse underneath or a bolero jacket over it. Remove the blouse and add jewellery to dress it up for after hours.
Pencil Skirts
Pencil skirts are the perfect way to look polished and put together at the office, but sleek and sexy when out with friends.
I recommend wearing a slim turtleneck with your skirt during the day and adding chic bomber jacket at night. Look for pencil skirts with lace cut-outs or classy embellishments – these additional details will add interest to your garment and make your overall outfit 'pop'.
A Silk Blouse
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Silk blouses work at the office, on a date, at happy hour, and even at a Christmas party.
Just like the pencil skirt, a silk blouse masters the ability to make polished look sexy.
Keep it professional by wearing a tailored blazer to the office. At night, throw on a leather jacket to take the blouse from professional to flirty. Top it off with a pair of studded heels for the perfect combination of chic and edgy.
The Jacket
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Everyone has their winter coat, but the key to women’s winter fashion looks going from day to night is the right jacket.
From bombers to blazers and everything in between, the right jacket can add the perfect amount of flare. Some jackets everyone loves are navy blazers, camo jackets, and moto jackets.
So which jacket style do I recommend? It’s always going to be the jacket you feel most confident in because that’s the jacket that’s going to look best on you.
The Right Accessories
Even the chicest outfit needs a little bit of accessorising. Sometimes, simply adding a necklace or a different handbag is all it takes to go from daytime chic to night-time edge.
Accessorising can be hard. Over accessorise and you could look a little costume-ish, but under accessorise and you’ll look a little bare. Here’s a roundup of the perfect pieces to add, so that you look stylish, classy, and perfectly fashionable.
The Perfect Clutch
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The main difference between daytime and night-time looks is the bag you’re carrying.
During the day you want to keep all your essentials with you: your planner, lipsticks, laptop, tablet, and everything else but the kitchen sink, right? However, at night, you probably only need some lipstick, powder, a mirror, credit cards, and cash. Carrying less means you don’t need a large purse.
A clutch is the perfect size to hold all your night-time essentials while keeping the focus on your outfit. Swap out your daytime work tote for a smaller bag like this classic clutch.
Statement Jewellery
Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash
During the day, you want to keep your look focused on the business. This means you don’t want people distracted by your outfit. So, when the sun goes down, that means it’s time to play.
Swap out your simple pearls or studs for some eye-catching statement earrings. These look great with your unique 'LBD' or your silk blouse.
Jewellery is a quick, time saver when you’re trying to go from the office to happy hour.
Scarves And Wraps
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It’s cold outside and you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. In fact, scarves and wraps encourage style. You’ll love the way your jacket pairs with a cashmere or infinity scarf. Wrap yourself in soft cashmere for warmth, style, and comfort.
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to choose dark colours. Don’t let the world forget about colour with winter styling.
Printed silk scarfs can add both colour and intrigue to an otherwise plain outfit. Don’t be afraid to switch out your daytime scarf for a fun night-time scarf.
Women’s winter fashion looks are loaded with ways to keep your spirits high even when the temperatures are low. Stay warm and happy shopping!
Written by Tess DiNapoli
Street-wear In 2018: A Small Industry Insight
Autumn 2018 Fashion Trends You Can Shop Right Now
Even though the fashion month is in full swing, we won’t be seeing those trends ‘come to life’ for months to come, but that’s perfectly fine, as there is an entire universe of fall trends that are just getting their place in the limelight and are just waiting for us to shop and flaunt them. Given how inspired and inspirational, not to mention far from drab and inconspicuous the autumn 2018 trends are, there is no chance you won’t shine and make yourself feel just a little bit better in amazing clothing that spites the autumn, which, let’s face it, can be gloomy sometimes.
There is a plethora of trends, but we have chosen the very best for you, and the best part is, they are now all yours for the picking, so pick away and go dazzle.
You’ll Love It
Whether we’re keen on a particular pattern or not, the runways have a way of making us inclined towards it once we see it on the models. Such is the case with animal print, about which opinions have been heavily divided, but more and more people are giving in to the trend. A statement leopard print coat seems to be all the rage right now, at least according to the street style section, and we have to say, it looks pretty darn classy when worn with neutral colors. However, if this isn’t really your cup of tea, you can always embrace the trend in a more subtle manner, with a pair of leopard print ankle boots for instance, which are enough to elevate an outfit but not as risky as a larger garment, so you don’t run the risk of making a fashion mistake.
Puff It Up
One of the most romantic trends, at least in our opinion, is the puff-sleeve trend that has been spotted on a number of garments, from simple tops to dressy blouses and even amazing autumn dresses. The best part is that, since the jeans plus a dressy top trend has made a low-key comeback, you can feel free to rock your puffy blouse with a pair of mom jeans or any other jeans that do your body justice and feel amazing. The fabrics are usually soft, so you can always put a trench coat over the blouse if it gets chilly and you’ll look amazing and a little ostentatious – in the best way, when you remove the coat.
Check, Please!
The popularity of the grey oversized checked blazer, usually long enough to serve as a tuxedo dress at times, doesn’t seem to be dwindling down. If you haven’t grabbed your version, make sure to hop to it ASAP, because the pattern didn’t only mark the fall season but also has staying power, which makes it a great investment. Aside from that, with the mixture of menswear-inspired garments and those purely feminine, you’re going to need this baby to exude those mixed vibes. And if it remains as popular as it is now, it might just dethrone the mighty trench coat.
In Layering We Believe
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Some are still in mourning over the end of summer, but instead of wallowing, jump on the amazing layering train, which allows you to show your mad mixing and matching skills and lets you unleash your inner fashion persona. There’s no need to say goodbye to dresses, as you can buy women’s dresses online, amazing and affordable ones at that, and practice the art of smart and chic layering. You can rock strappy dresses with shirts underneath and exude those trendy ‘90s vibes, and add a touch of athleisure with a warm and cozy pair of sneakers and cool and trendy polka dot tights. Finish off the look with a luxurious-looking long grey cardigan and bam – you’ve got yourself some layering gold.
A Complete Inevitability
After a close inspection of the street style section of every fashion capital from Oslo to New York and London, the verdict is in, and the white boot trend still remains untouchable. Whether you’ll go for knee-high or the ankle ones is irrelevant, you simply must snag a pair. They have proven not only their chicness, but also their versatility; they’ve been rocked with simple jeans, tracksuits, frilly dresses and power suits. So, it’s time for us to give in and let them elevate our look and mystically blend into each one at the same time. We don’t know how, but these boots have become a complete style chameleon.
Colour-block It
Carolina Herrera may have given away the creative reigns, but she did leave us with one final message – always be elegant and don’t be afraid to play with colour. One of the absolute best looks, one that we presume will be remembered and worn for years to come, is the one featuring a simple crisp white shirt, a ball gown skirt and a wide belt in a contrasting colour. This is a look worthy of the red carpet and meeting the queen, but it is also great for going out or even rocking it at work. We have been reminded, once again, that there is so much beauty in simplicity, even when that simplicity includes colour-blocking. As pieces like these are easy to find, go and find your go-to colours and mix like there’s no tomorrow.
Power Up
Finally, let us not forget about the mighty power suit. Every woman should own one, whether she is a ladyboss or not, because we all deserve to feel and look powerful. There are so many cuts that you can choose from fitted and oversized tailored blazers and wide-leg trousers in checked pattern, pastels or saturated colours, so make sure you pick one out and wear it as often as you can because this is unquestionably the outfit of autumn 2018.
Written by Sophia Smith
Photos Unsplash and Pexels
How to Wear the Most Popular Colours This Season
Summer is the perfect time to embrace colour and mix things up from your usual navy and black winter wardrobe.
Summer styles: what will you be wearing?
Dress to impress this summer — because let’s face it, you’re going to be tagged in every picture on Facebook and you don’t want to be dressed down.
6 Must-Have Summer Accessories
Source: Unspash
Oh, is it summer yet? If so, the perpetual hunt for the perfect accessories can officially start. I’m sure you’re all searching for the things you will recklessly spend your cash on, but who are we to judge. Forget about bags this time, because I know you have plenty of them, and get ready to splurge on some hot pieces of accessories. Here are some of the lust-worthy items for the upcoming season, and trust me, you will end up craving for more.
Hoop Earrings
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The bigger the hoop, the bigger the... Oh no, we won't say that out loud. They were once considered trashy and unattractive to be seen on a woman, but look how times have changed since then. Golden or silver, large or small, matte or glossy, these ear candies should never leave once they enter your jewellery box. Whatever colour you choose, they go perfectly with any hairstyle, especially with a tousled ponytail and loose waves. These circular stunners are easy to pair with any outfit as well, and you can also wear them with your favourite bathing suit. Beach goddess alert! Whether you match them with sneakers or a fancy dress, you can’t go wrong. If you haven't got a pair of them yet, it's time for a mini addition.
Skinny Frames Are The New Stunna Shades!
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The 90's are back, people, and the teeny-tiny frames are taking center stage! From street style fashionistas to runway models, these retro pieces made a huge comeback. It seems like Kourtney Kardashian, Bella Hadid and Rihanna can literally put their trademark on them, since they barely take them off. After all, It's not about protecting your eyes from the sun, but it's all for the aesthetics. Although these types of sunnies don't flatter everybody's face shape, you can always choose sunglasses you won't get mocked for, such as round or square-shaped ones. But if you are determined and don’t care about what everybody else think, then there is no shape you can't pull off. Besides, everything is ugly until Rihanna decides it's not!
Less Is More, Always
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Statement necklaces will get you noticed, but subtle necklaces even more. There's something about these accessories that will effortlessly complete your whole look. For ladies who adore the minimalistic charm, golden chain necklaces and subtle, layered chokers are the way to go. Perfect for any occasion, these discreet pieces bring out your feminine and classy side.
Straw Hats Are Amazingly Stylish
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Straw hats with a contrasting ribbon never went out of style. You can wear them during the day, but most importantly, they keep your head safe at the beach. If you are one of those girls who aren't ashamed to speak their minds but you'd rather have your hat speak instead, then embroidered slogan hats should be your staple head accessories for this season. Oversized hats are trending too, and they are all over Instagram.
Trendy Watches
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Diamonds are a girl's best friend? I'd rather say it's a nice watch. These are the most common and the most wearable hand accessories ever, and if you don't own at least one, then we're calling the fashion cops. It's 2018, which means you can wear the same watch with a baggy tracksuit and a glamorous dress. Stylish Daniel Wellington watches made their way into fashion, and Instagram influencers went crazy over them. Who wouldn't? Cuff and anchor bracelets are a perfect addition to this watch and trust me, no one really cares whether they are gold or silver because rules don't apply anymore.
Bandana Oh Na Na
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Bandanas are the easiest hair accessories ever and they look super cute too. You can wear them with different hairstyles, such as voluminous ponytails and messy buns. Since it's summer and our wardrobes are getting more colorful, opt for the floral, red, yellow or white ones. For the beauties who’d like to bring the 60's back, these are super cheap and light-weight too. So make your hair big, and show the world your inner Brigitte Bardot.
So, ready for a little shopping spree therapy? If the answer is yes, look through this list again and spoil yourself with some new fashion updates.
Written by guest blogger Scarlet Gratton
7 Must-Have Items for a Bohemian Chic Wardrobe
Bohemian chic is one of the fashion trends that will never go out of style – it emerged as one of the leading trends in the last couple of seasons, and it’ll remain dominant this year as well. But do you really know what makes this trend exactly what it is? If the answer is ‘no’, just stay with us and keep on reading, because there are seven must-haves you simply need to have in your boho chic wardrobe. Check them out and enjoy!
The Inevitable Peasant Blouse With Intricate Embroidery
Peasant tops are making a serious comeback these days, and that’s what makes them an absolute must-have in any fashionista’s wardrobe. Such blouses have always been a massive hit among the boho chic lovers for a good reason – apart from being extremely chic and trendy, these are quite comfortable at the same time, as they’re made from lightweight fabrics that allow your skin to breathe. Just pick one with intricate embroidery and you’ll do a great job!
Fringed Leather Jacket Is An Absolute Must…
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A fabulous fringed leather jacket is also one of the pieces any fashionista simply has to have, and you’ll love to hear that it’s a true representative of the boho chic style. Fringed garments and accessories have been reinterpreted and made more contemporary in the last couple of seasons, and these are a major part of the bohemian style, so don’t forget to incorporate them into your everyday outfits. Of course, you don’t have to go strictly for a leather jacket – eco leather will do more than fine, too!
… As Well As A Flowy Maxi Dress …
Flowy maxi dresses make another essential part of a bohemian chic wardrobe, so get at least one such dress if you still don’t own it. Of course, lightweight materials like linen are more than desirable, as they’ll allow you to move with ease while looking stunning as always. Lace is another highly requested fabric, so you should pick a piece that features it and you won’t make a mistake. As far as colours are concerned, you should probably opt for earthy tones like beige, orange, and all shades of brown, as they’ll inevitably bring a bohemian vibe to any outfit.
… and A Fabulous Floral Bikini
If you’re a gal who loves to show off her curves and beautiful body in a gorgeous bikini, you’ll be happy to hear that floral ones are definitely in style. The fact that such swimwear is representative of bohemian chic style makes it even more attractive, so check out Seafolly Bali Hai swimsuits that were heavily inspired by gorgeous floral prints and stunning colour palette typical of boho chic. These pieces will be more than perfect for chilling out at the beach or by the pool, so be sure not to skip them at any cost!
Don’t Skip A Statement Headband Either
Everyone knows that boho chic is all about details, which is exactly why you need to pay a lot of attention to your accessories. Of course, a statement headband is absolutely inevitable – aside from being really practical and keeping your hair up, it’s a highly fashionable item as well, and you always can make it your signature piece everyone will know you by. Besides that, you can also take your favourite scarf or a bandana and tie it around your head instead of a real headband, which is basically killing two birds with one stone.
You Simply Need To Have A Boho Crochet Vest
Another garment typical of bohemian style is a crochet vest, which is a piece you simply need to own as the ultimate boho chic lover. Even though such a vest is quite specific and authentic, the fact is that you can dress up any outfit in your wardrobe with it, which just shows how versatile it actually is. This piece is also more than desirable for the festival season, especially for festivals like Coachella. If you’re up for it, remember to get this vest as soon as possible!
Chunky Jewellery Is A Bare Necessity, Too
As already stated, statement accessories play a huge role when speaking of bohemian chic style, and chunky bangles, rings, and bib necklaces are here to prove this claim. Gold and rose gold, silver and copper are the shades you should pick from, as these are the most likely to follow your boho-themed outfit, and the rule says ‘go big or go home’. However, if that’s a bit too much for your personal taste just pick a long necklace with a pendant made of feathers and you’ll nail your boho look in no time!
As you can see, there are a lot of fabulous garments and statement accessories that define the boho chic look and make it exactly what it is – the ultimate feminine style with a touch of vintage vibes. If that’s what you want to go for, just be sure to have the aforementioned seven pieces in your wardrobe ASAP. Once that’s done, you’ll come up with your bohemian combos like a true fashionista!
Written By Sophia Smith
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!
What Summer Streetwear Trends to Expect
Streetwear is a massive global trend that is only getting bigger, luxury brands have started showing their plans for the summer of and a lot of new and current trends are going to be seen this summer.
Holiday Wardrobe
Nothing like having an organised holiday checklist for your wardrobe style! We all want to look good in our holiday snaps, but we don’t really want the fuss of spending hours each day thinking of how to slay in those holiday photos. I picked some of my favourite staple pieces for a good holiday: easy to style; and effortlessly snap-worthy. I am currently in love with items from Mango and have picked items from there. enjoy!