Category: Lifestyle

By   Milcah   Tanimu

2024 has been a groundbreaking year for Nigerian fashion, with designers making waves locally and globally. Their creativity and innovation have dressed top celebrities and earned international acclaim. Here are the top 10 Nigerian fashion designers who defined style this year:

10. Prudential Atelier
A rising star, Prudential Gabriel stunned with designs for Miss Universe Nigeria and numerous celebrities, including Beauty Tukura.

9. Orire
Renowned for African prints and bold colors, Orire’s designs, like Meghan Markle’s gown during her Nigeria visit, became instant bestsellers.

8. Desiree Iyama
Known for her puffed gowns and signature flaps, Desiree Iyama captivated the “IT girls” of 2024 with her ready-to-wear designs.

7. Mai Atafo
Mai Atafo remained a household name, creating standout looks for Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, including a kaftan made from caps.

6. Ugo Monye
Famed for royal agbadas, Ugo Monye showcased his latest collection in London and dressed superstar Davido for his wedding.

5. Amy Aghomi
Specializing in bridal and aso-ebi, Amy Aghomi styled Sharon Ooja’s wedding and Davido’s music videos, earning accolades for her designs.

4. Wannifuga
A favorite among influencers, Wannifuga impressed with feminine silhouettes and signature prints, styling Toke Makinwa and Hilda Baci.

3. Banke Kuku
Banke Kuku’s floral, flowy prints highlighted femininity, dressing icons like Mo Abudu and Toke Makinwa in her trending knotted mesh dresses.

2. Andrea Iyamah
Andrea Iyamah’s international appeal soared, with her unique designs featured on CNN and adored by Hollywood stars.

1. Veekee James
Veekee James topped the list with her exquisite beading, stoning, and corsetry. Her AMVCA designs for Toke Makinwa and Osas Ighodaro stole the show.

These designers have not only redefined Nigerian fashion but have also showcased the nation’s creativity on the global stage, making 2024 a memorable year for the industry.

Category: Lifestyle
Author: Temi Iwalaiye

By  Milcah  Tanimu

In Urhoboland, the bride price is a key part of the marriage process, but it is much lower than in many other Nigerian cultures. In some cases, it’s as low as ₦200. However, the customs surrounding it are extensive.

The process begins when the groom visits the bride’s family to express his intentions. If they approve, they invite him back for a second visit, where the wedding list is handed over. This list includes items like outfits for the bride’s parents, money for the traditional meal, and a request for three bags of salt. It may also include a request for the groom to clear the bride’s father’s farm, which is negotiable.

The bride price is discussed in a family meeting. The bride’s family asks for a high amount, justifying it with their daughter’s education and beauty. The groom’s family then negotiates the price down. Typically, the price settles at ₦120, although it can vary. This symbolizes that the bride is not for sale but is honored.

Once the price is paid, the bride’s family returns ₦10 to the groom. This represents an investment in the future of their marriage. While the amount can vary, the process emphasizes respect, negotiation, and the couple’s future.

By Abigail Philip David

The festive season is upon us, and while financial challenges might make extravagant celebrations harder this year, they don’t have to dampen your holiday spirit. Christmas is all about spending quality time with loved ones, creating memories, and embracing the joy of togetherness.

With some creativity and a focus on meaningful moments, you can make this holiday season magical without breaking the bank. Here are 10 budget-friendly activities—perfect for indoors and outdoors—that will bring your family closer this Christmas.

Indoor Activities

1. Sip and Guess Game
Turn your living room into a hub of laughter with this simple yet entertaining game. Blindfold participants, have them sip mystery drinks, and guess the flavors. It’s a fun way to engage everyone and spark some festive giggles.

2. DIY Christmas Crafts
Get crafty as a family! Create ornaments from salt dough, paper snowflakes, or pinecones. Make garlands, wreaths, or stockings. These handmade decorations add a personal touch to your home and are cherished keepsakes for years to come.

3. Cosy Movie Night
Transform your home into a mini theatre with pillows, blankets, and dim lighting. Choose a beloved Christmas classic, serve popcorn and hot cocoa, and enjoy a relaxing evening filled with holiday cheer.

4. Family Cook-a-thon
Turn cooking into a festive event by preparing holiday meals together. Whether it’s baking cookies, whipping up jollof rice, or making traditional soups, teamwork in the kitchen is a fun and budget-friendly way to bond.

5. Giving Back Together
Teach the kids the true meaning of Christmas by volunteering as a family. Whether it’s helping at food banks, participating in toy drives, or delivering care packages, this heartwarming activity spreads kindness and creates lasting memories.

Outdoor Activities

6. Backyard Campfire and Treats
Set up a fire pit in your yard and enjoy a cosy evening roasting marshmallows, making s’mores, and sipping warm drinks. Add carols or storytelling for an unforgettable night under the stars.

7. Festive Scavenger Hunt
Organize a holiday-themed scavenger hunt in your backyard or a nearby park. Hide small treats like candy canes or ornaments and give everyone clues to find them. It’s a fun and adventurous activity for all ages.

8. Holiday Lights Tour
Take an evening walk or drive through neighborhoods adorned with twinkling lights. Bring hot drinks to stay warm and soak in the enchanting displays. It’s a magical way to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

9. Holiday Photo Adventure
Dress in festive outfits or matching jumpers and head to a scenic spot for family photos. Use Christmas lights, snowy backdrops, or decorated trees as your setting. These snapshots make beautiful keepsakes and holiday cards.

10. Visit a Holiday Market or Fair
Explore local Christmas markets filled with handmade crafts, festive foods, and music. Many markets also feature stunning light displays and kid-friendly attractions, offering a fun and affordable way to enjoy the season.

Celebrate the Simple Joys
This Christmas, focus on what truly matters: love, laughter, and togetherness. These simple yet creative activities prove that you don’t need a big budget to make the holidays special. Instead, they offer the chance to connect, share, and create moments that will be cherished for years to come.

By  Milcah  Tanimu

Unsterilised makeup brushes pose serious health risks, including the transmission of monkeypox, HIV, hepatitis, and other infections, warns Dr. Folakemi Cole-Adeife, a Consultant Dermatologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja. Dr. Cole-Adeife highlighted the dangers associated with makeup artists reusing brushes on multiple clients without proper sterilization.

According to her, sharing unsterilised brushes can introduce harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other pathogens into micro-cuts caused by eyebrow shaping or other makeup processes. She revealed cases where patients suffered severe skin infections or breakouts due to unhygienic makeup practices. Alarmingly, some patients have contracted viral infections, such as monkeypox or hepatitis, through contaminated brushes.

Dr. Cole-Adeife urged makeup enthusiasts to prioritize safety by using personal makeup tools or ensuring that artists sterilize brushes. “Hot water, methylated spirit, or proper sterilization methods are essential between clients,” she advised. Additionally, she encouraged makeup artists to maintain rigorous hygiene standards, including washing hands before handling clients’ faces.

These preventive steps can significantly reduce the risk of infections, safeguarding both clients and professionals in the beauty industry.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

Your beauty routine doesn’t stop when you turn off the lights. Your sleep hours are the perfect time for rejuvenation and repair. However, your hair and skin can still face damage during the night, from dryness to tangling. Fortunately, simple habits can ensure you wake up feeling refreshed and radiant.

Here are practical tips to protect your hair and skin while you sleep:

1. Choose the Right Pillowcase

The type of pillowcase you sleep on plays a significant role in your hair and skin health. Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from your skin and hair, leaving them dry. They can also cause friction, which leads to hair breakage and skin creases.

Switch to silk or satin pillowcases. These materials are gentler on your hair and skin, keeping them smooth, hydrated, and reducing friction. Plus, they’re cool and comfortable, enhancing your sleep.

2. Keep Your Hair Protected

Sleeping with unprotected hair can lead to tangles, breakage, and dryness. If you have long or fragile hair, tie it loosely with a soft scrunchie or wrap it in a silk scarf. Avoid tight hairstyles to prevent strain on your hair.

You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or nourishing hair oil before bed. These treatments are especially beneficial if your hair is dry or curly.

3. Don’t Skip Your Nighttime Skincare

Your skin does a lot of its recovery while you sleep, so support it with a good nighttime skincare routine. Begin by cleansing your face to remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Then, apply a hydrating moisturizer or serum to lock in moisture.

If you struggle with acne or dry patches, try using targeted treatments at night when your skin is most receptive.

4. Keep Your Bedroom Clean

Your pillowcases and bedding can trap oil, dirt, and bacteria, which can affect your skin and hair. Wash your pillowcases and sheets every week to prevent skin irritation and hair damage from these impurities.

5. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is vital, not only for your hair and skin but for your overall health. Drink plenty of water during the day and use a humidifier if the air in your bedroom feels dry. A humidifier will help your skin and hair retain moisture as you sleep.

By incorporating these habits into your nightly routine, you’ll protect your hair and skin, ensuring you wake up every morning with healthy, glowing skin and silky, well-nourished hair.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

Have you ever wondered what makes certain women irresistible to men? While every individual has personal preferences, studies and expert opinions point toward specific traits that are universally appealing. The key is not changing who you are but embracing your best qualities. Here are five types of women that men are most drawn to:

1. The Confident Woman

Confidence stands out as one of the most attractive traits. A confident woman knows her value, carries herself with self-assurance, and embraces her individuality. She walks into any room with her head high—not out of arrogance but because she believes in herself. Confidence radiates positivity and resilience, qualities men find inspiring and appealing.

2. The Woman With a Great Sense of Humour

Laughter brings people closer, and a woman with a great sense of humour can create a light and joyful atmosphere. Whether it’s laughing at herself, sharing a funny story, or enjoying lighthearted moments, this trait signals that she doesn’t take life too seriously and can adapt to any situation with ease. Humor fosters bonding, making interactions meaningful.

3. The Kind and Compassionate Woman

Kindness is timeless and universal. A woman who displays empathy, compassion, and support creates a nurturing and safe space for others. Men are drawn to these qualities because they foster emotional connection and show an understanding of human connection. A kind woman values relationships and treats people with respect and warmth.

4. The Adventurous Woman

Adventure is the spice of life, and an adventurous woman adds excitement to every experience. Whether she’s exploring new places, trying new foods, or embracing new activities, her willingness to step outside her comfort zone makes life exciting and memorable. Many men admire women with adventurous spirits because they bring spontaneity and energy to relationships.

5. The Intelligent Woman

Intelligence is a highly appealing quality. Beyond academic knowledge, intelligence includes curiosity, thoughtfulness, and meaningful conversations. An intelligent woman engages in stimulating discussions, offers insights, and challenges ideas. Such women deepen emotional connections by fostering intellectual compatibility and encouraging mutual growth.

These qualities—confidence, humour, kindness, adventure, and intelligence—are traits men tend to admire. Ultimately, being authentic and embracing your individuality while nurturing these characteristics can lead to genuine, long-lasting connections.

By Milcah  Tanimu

To maintain your wigs—whether synthetic or human hair—it’s crucial to use the right comb. A good comb reduces tangles, prevents damage, and keeps your wig looking beautiful for longer. Here’s a guide to the top combs for wigs and tips for proper care:

Best Combs for Wigs

1. Wide-Tooth Comb: Ideal for all wig types, especially curly or wavy styles. It gently detangles without causing frizz or breakage.
2. Loop Brush: Best for straight wigs, this brush smooths hair without snagging the lace or pulling the wefts.
3. Tangle Teezer: With a unique two-tier design, this brush works effortlessly on all wig types, reducing damage.
4. Steel/Metal Bristle Brush: Designed for synthetic wigs, metal bristles are soft and anti-static, minimizing damage to fibres.
5. Boar Bristle Brush: Perfect for human hair wigs, it enhances shine and evenly distributes oils.

Comb Properly to Extend Wig Life

• Avoid brushing synthetic wigs when wet, as this weakens the fibres.
• Start detangling from the ends and work toward the roots to reduce pulling and breakage.
• Use gentle strokes and avoid excessive force, especially with synthetic wigs.

Maintain your wigs with the right tools and techniques to ensure they stay lush and beautiful for a long time.

By  Milcah  Tanimu

Guinness Nigeria Plc has announced 33 new beneficiaries of its 2024 Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme. Each recipient will receive ₦200,000 annually for the duration of their studies at public institutions across Nigeria.

During the ceremony at Guinness Nigeria’s headquarters on November 27, Managing Director Girish Sharma highlighted the company’s commitment to youth empowerment. “Since 2019, this initiative has supported over 123 outstanding students, with ₦43 million disbursed to nurture talent in STEM fields,” Sharma said.

Notably, over 55% of this year’s beneficiaries are female, emphasizing Guinness Nigeria’s dedication to gender equity. The program also welcomed eight beneficiaries from the Federal Nigerian Society for the Blind, reflecting its focus on inclusivity.

Corporate Relations Director Rotimi Odusola reiterated Guinness Nigeria’s long-term commitment to education, mentioning the recent increase in financial support from ₦100,000 to ₦200,000.

One recipient, John Sharon from the University of Lagos, expressed gratitude, saying, “This scholarship is a timely support, especially with rising school fees.”

The scholarship program, part of Guinness Nigeria’s broader CSR initiatives, received over 18,500 applications this year, underscoring its impact in empowering Nigerian youths through education.

By Abigail Philip David

Sneakers are a staple in casual fashion, loved for their comfort and versatility. However, they tend to get dirty quickly, requiring regular cleaning to keep them looking fresh. While many people resort to using detergent due to its availability, this common practice can actually harm your sneakers. Here’s why you should stop using detergent and the best alternatives for cleaning your sneakers.

Why You Should Avoid Detergent

1. Harsh Ingredients
Detergents are designed for clothes and fabrics, not sneakers. Their harsh chemicals can weaken and disintegrate the materials used in your sneakers, leading to premature damage.

2. Residue Buildup
Detergents often leave behind residue that’s hard to rinse off completely. This residue attracts dirt and grime, making your sneakers look dirty again shortly after cleaning.

3. Material Damage
Many sneakers come with protective coatings or treatments. Detergent can strip these away, causing discolouration, cracking, and general wear and tear.

4. Colour Fading
Brightly coloured sneakers are especially susceptible to colour fading when exposed to harsh detergents, ruining their original appearance.

5. Loss of Shape
Detergents can erode the glue and weaken the stitching in your sneakers, leading to deformation or structural damage over time.

Best Alternatives for Cleaning Sneakers

1. Baking Soda
Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub away stains and odours. Baking soda is gentle and effective for deep cleaning.

2. White Vinegar
A solution of white vinegar and water works wonders for white sneakers. It brightens their appearance and removes tough stains without damaging the material.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide
When diluted, hydrogen peroxide is an excellent cleaning agent for removing stains and brightening colours. Use it sparingly to avoid over-bleaching.

Using these alternatives will not only keep your sneakers looking great but also prolong their lifespan. By avoiding harsh detergents, you can maintain the integrity, colour, and shape of your sneakers while keeping them clean and fresh. Switch to these gentler cleaning agents for better results and long-lasting footwear.