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TAIWO AJAI-LYCETTE I G H T Y & V I B R A N T !

CONTENT

TRENDS TO TRY PG 4-5

DRESS TO LOOK TALLERPG 6

FAT SHAMING PG 7

RAISING THE TEMPO WITH LATEX PG 8-9

DRESS UP GRANDPA JEANS PG 10-11

DO CLASSY ON A BUDGET PG 17

STYLING YOUR MONOCHROME OUTFIT PG 18-19

#TEAMHEELS ALL THE WAY PG 20-21

BEST NATURAL MAKEUP PRODUCTS, BENEFITSPG 22

ONE LOOK, 3 WAYS PG 23

Fashion

Taiwo Ajai Lycett is a renowned actor, cosmetologist and journalist. She’s well grounded as an all-round artist and has taken up major roles as an actor both locally and internationally. The multiple award winner actor who recently celebrated her 80th birthday, has definitely contributed her quarter when it comes to timeless movies and storytelling globally. AZUKA OGUJUIBA reports

THISDAY STYLEFASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

RUTH OSIME

EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

EDITOR DIGITAL

KONYE NWABOGOR

SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG

CONTRIBUTORSISIOMA USIADE

GUEST CORRESPONDENTSAZUKA OGUJIUBAZINA ANUMUDU

JOANNA MACGREGORSEYI ALAWODE

PHOTOGRAPHERTY BELLO

DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTIONCHUKS ONWUDINJO

08111847085

08111847086

08111847087

07054965500

08077092196

As we all know, tomorrow, 8th of March is International Women’s Day and the month of March itself is International Women’s Month. So needless

to say, this will reflect on our cover series this month where we feature women who have made a strong impact in their desired sectors. It is a thing of pride when we see women shattering ceilings and doing it for themselves as they break the shackles of tradition and take in roles often times reserved men. These women are not scared to forge ahead in pursuit of their dreams. What is most inspiring is how they become

role models to those who look up to them and are encouraged by their audacity and courage. Their gargantuan steps places a path for others

to follow. Some of their shoes are hard to fill but their zeal not as hard to emulate.

TAIWO AJAI-LYCETT is a globally known and respected actor for the roles she has played in several international sitcoms not to mention how she has also graced our

screens and stages with her riveting performances. At 80, she is an enigma who still remains vibrant with her larger than life personality. But like everyone else, she has had more than her fair share of challenges, one of which was being robbed and raped at the age of 65! This would have been too devastating a blow for most women her age at the time, to handle. But not Ajai-Lycett! She has maintained her dignity in the face of adversity and refused to allow the horrific experience curb her exuberance. She is at that point in her life where the power of positive thinking and being bold enough to air your views with no apologies is her preferred path. To say she engulfs you with her personality is putting it mildly and till date, remains one of the most audacious women of her time.

We should all take a leaf from her and learn to live our lives...on our terms and not by others.

FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITORInstagram: @thisdaystyle | Twitter: @thisdaystyleon | Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Website: www.thisdaystyle.ng

Outfits : QueenCess collection by @rubyandpinkPhotography: @oluwatobbie

Makeup: @peculiartouchconcept

trendstotry Fashion trends this year promises to lift your mood from the darkest depths of quarantine, and help you

wallow in style. From feathers that spark joy, to monochrome

so sleek, you’ll feel chic.

Sickly SweetsThis year’s styles balance delicate with daring. Tulle and sheer add romance to short lengths and make longer styles more risqué. When everyone else is in loungewear, tulle, sheer and chiffon makes a radical statement. Playing with fabric textures will help elevate your look from 1990s to a barbie doll. Model for STYLE TEMPLE

Hot GothYou’re entitled to be both decadent and sulky after a long 2020, climbing into a gothic slip dress. So, go on, bring some drama to your daywear with a wardrobe blackout. Model for DAVID TLALE

Sparking Joy2021 looks brighter thanks to shiny, happy styles that max out on colour and volume. Bigger and bolder is better, as clashing prints mix with expansive tulle: surely makes everything seem sunnier. Tis the season to pile it all on act like a kid in sweet shop with your own wardrobe! Model for KLUK CGDT

Logo-a-gogo! The slogan shirt has been usurped by slogan everything. From polos to pants, it’s time to pledge allegiance. Don’t stop at one logo, and clash if you need to, we’re talking head-to-toe branding. Model for TOKYO JAMES

Disco BallFittingly, as the temperature climbs, so too does the number of statement silvery styles this year. The category is mercury rising, with textures in the form of sequins and oversized metallic paillettes, as well as ‘touch me’ ruffles and lurex that shines even brighter when the sun’s out. It’s time to pull out all the lurex, glitter and metallics you didn’t get a chance to don on New Year’s Eve. Model for TSEMAYE BINITIE

Pop and BlockClash rainbow bright to stand out, bringing classic suiting and romantic ruffles into 2021 by mixing punch-packing pop colours with yellow. Get your colour fix by clashing each and every one on the colour wheel. Model for RE-LAGOS

Bubble-gum PinkWith the 2021 fashion trend, something you’ll want to chew on is the bubble gum pink. If you’re in the mood for romance, try soft sheer dresses. Or, dial down the girliness with something that simply goes ‘pop’. From crisp shirts to high waisted chinos, this lip-smacking shade boosts the simplest of shapes and moods. Bright, bubble-gum pink is the way to go. Model wearing DEOLA SAGOE

BY USIADE ISIOMA

Monochrome MatrixWhether textural and layered, like circle cut-out knits, or classic colour-blocking, there’s a monochromatic style trick for everyone. Just choose which one is best for you. Playing with patterns in monochrome like a polka dot stripe shirt over black pants for the immediate look, the head gear and sunshades aren’t left out. Model for SUNNY ROSE

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S T Y L E & D E S I G N THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style

Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021

TALLERDRESS TO LOOK

When it comes to looking taller, naturally, tall girls have an advantage. But for everyone else, it’s not the end of the world,

after all, what are wedges and stilettoes for, huh?But looking taller is more than just a function of the height

of your heels. First, remember to embrace who you are! After all, loving your body gives you confidence.

Always walk tall as this is the first step to appear taller. No slouching or hunching,

throw back those shoulders and think tall! Straighten your

spine, extend your neck and see how it visually

adds inches to your torso.

AMA GODSON

IJEOMA KOLAFISAYO LONGE

ADA

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

Choose monochromes and solid colours to create an illusion of length and

added height. Different colours simply divide the body creating boxes, making

you look shorter and stubby. You can blend colours(choosing colours from

the same family) rather than wearing a starkly different one on the top and bottom. Also match your shoes to the colour of your lowers to add length to

your stems.

High-waisted jeans are shamazing for multiple reasons—including their

ability to make anyone look taller. “They hit you at your waist, which

is typically the smallest area of your stomach

Especially if you’re petite, teeny-tiny prints can make a surprisingly big

statement. Whereas big prints tend to minimize, micro prints maximize .

On occasion, these micro prints can hit you in the wrong places, causing parts of your body to look wider than you’d normally like. If that’s the case for you, switch this tip out for another one on

the list.

A monochromatic outfit creates a “cohesive” look, which keeps the eye running up and down. (It’s basically the column logic all over again.) The result: legs for days! We’re definitely going to use this tip on the reg—

monochromatic outfits are so in right now, and they’re virtually impossible

to screw up

CHOOSE THE RIGHT

COLOUR

OPT FOR HIGH-WAIST-

ED JEANS

CHOOSE A MICRO OF

PRINTS

GO MONO-CHROMATIC

Almost exactly a year ago, I was 60 and weighed 120kg – way too heavy for my height (5 feet and 10 inches). Meanwhile, my vital statistics were 49-47-51 (chest-waist-hips) inches.

I started a weekly column in this magazine on March 15th 2020, to shame myself into sticking to a diet and inspire other fatties.

Here is what I said in that first column:

* Until I was in my late 40s, I was a complacent ectomorph – narrow-hipped, flat-stomached, small-boned despite being tall (5 feet 10 inches) and so effortlessly slender that many of my girlfriends envied my ability to eat nonstop - and drink like a sailor on shore leave - without putting on an ounce.

* I’d pour 3 heaped spoons of sugar into each of the 5 cups of tea or coffee I got through every day. I’d merrily knock back several super-sweet, high-calorie whiskey/rum/brandy-and-cokes-or-sprites most nights, while carousing into the wee hours with equally indefatigable boozing companions.

* I was a huge fan of desserts that were drowning in thick dairy cream. My favourite savoury dishes were the fattiest cuts of meat (bacon, ribeye steaks) and ugba, the delicious Igbo delicacy that is known as “African salad” and drenched in palm oil.

* I frequently ate enough for three people in one meal and never steamed, boiled or grilled anything that could be fried. And it’s not as if I made any serious attempts to at least partially offset these gluttonous binges and alcoholic excesses by exercising.

* Ironically, I’d been something of a sports star as a teenager growing up in the UK. I was voted Games Captain by classmates at school and even won awards.

* But when I arrived at the University of Leicester, I fell in with a bunch of fast-living, fun-loving reprobates and decided that pubs, wine bars and hangovers were way more interesting than tennis, athletics, gymnastics and clear-headedness could ever be. And this somewhat immature mindset persisted for the next 3 decades.

* Sure, once in a while, in my 20s, 30s and 40s, I’d try to be a good girl and make my way to various gyms to meet my more health-conscious chums for aerobics classes…or join them for brisk early morning walks. But such rare forays into the realm of wholesomeness and physical exertion were half-hearted and reluctant.

* My default setting was Classic Couch Potato and Unrepentant Barfly.

* In a nutshell, I couldn’t be bothered to control my calorie intake – or to burn calories via exercise – because I didn’t need to deprive myself of

culinary delights or to sweat to stay slim. I remember being amused to discover, at one point in those halcyon days of unbridled and unpunished hedonism, that I could fit into my then 9-year-old son Oliver’s T-shirts.

* And then it happened. When I was nearly 50.

* All of a sudden, my body rebelled with a vehemence that shocked me; and I stopped getting away with abusing it.

* My previously speedy metabolism slowed down to a crawl. My previously unbloated frame succumbed to Middle-Aged Spread. And most of the clothes in my wardrobe became unwearable.

* I was shuttling between Nigeria and Europe at the time; and, by the way, there is a BIG difference between Nigerian and European attitudes towards weight issues.

* It’s a cultural thing.* As far as most Nigerians are concerned,

it’s fine for females to be chubby even when they are young, never mind when they are mothers or grannies. Here, it is expected that one will be larger at 50 than one was at 20; and most Naija ladies don’t feel bad – and aren’t made to feel bad - about becoming chunkier as they age or about sticking to roomy kaftans, bubus or wrappas when they cease to be spring chickens.

* Whereas in Europe, women who are past their primes doggedly aim to fit into outfits they wore as students. Bikinis included. And because I spent my formative years in Europe, I shared the average white woman’s profound fear of fatness and was utterly traumatised by my rapidly expanding waistline and hips…even though Nigerians often assured me that I looked “nice and fresh” and “better with some flesh on you.”

* As the kilos relentlessly piled on, my self-confidence plunged to rock bottom. And I’ve spent the past decade desperately trying – and spectacularly failing - to discipline myself to shed excess baggage by eating a lot less and exercising a lot more.

* In 2015, I was kidnapped in Port Harcourt and had to be sedated when I was released. The medication, which I took till 2018, worsened my weight problem; and by the

summer of 2019,

my obesity had become so extreme – I was 120 kilos or nearly 19 stone! - that even relaxed fat-tolerating Nigerian pals began to express concern.

* Then, while I was in London last autumn, my knees almost completely caved in from the sheer pressure of all that lard. I could barely walk and had to return to Nigeria in a wheelchair. But can you believe that despite this indignity, I STILL continued to eat like a pig, drink like a fish and carry on as if sugar was an absolute necessity?

* I hired competent physiotherapists who enabled me to ditch the wheelchair. But there is only so much a therapist can do for a stupid self-destructive patient; and because I didn’t offload any blubber, every step I took was excruciatingly painful.

* I hated myself. I set myself deadline after deadline and kept missing deadline after deadline. First it was that I would start a diet programme on my 60th birthday last October. Then it was that I would start when I started a new job on November lst.

* Then it was that I’d eat to my heart’s content on Christmas Day and start dieting on Boxing Day. When Boxing Day became yet another food binge, New Year’s Day became the new deadline. Then every single Monday since January lst was supposed to be D-Day. But no diet plan ever lasted beyond lunchtime. And I developed the habit of lying to folks who confronted me about my obvious ill health and limited mobility.

* If anyone suggested that I confront a weight problem that was clearly dragging me down, I’d say that I was already confronting it and had “recently” commenced a diet.

* Then – finally! – last month, I decided that enough was really, really, really enough…and that “fat-shaming” myself by going public with my weight loss struggle was the best way of motivating myself to get rid of the 35 kg my doctor says I must jettison if I want to avoid diseases like diabetes, heart attack and stroke.

* This diary will catalogue my experiences as a fat person, other peoples’ feelings about fatness, the practical/medical/emotional/financial difficulties that fatness can generate and the ups as well as downs that I encounter as I try to escape from fatness.

* I hope you enjoy sharing the journey with me.

* But something went wrong in my head; and instead of steadily losing weight, I binged and starved erratically. And after many ups and downs that included a triumphant drop to 106kg and depressing sojourn at 123kg (caused by Christmas gluttony), I wound up being even fatter at the end of 2020 than I’d been at the beginning of 2020!

Fortunately, I’ve managed to backtrack a bit and have shed a handful of kilos in recent weeks by simply reducing my sugar intake.

I currently weigh 118kg and have regained my motivation mojo and

am ready to vigorously revive the battle of the bulge…and fight fatness more effectively during this Second 2021 Phase.

I will forgive regular readers of this column if they cynically scoff and say that they have heard it all before. But the struggle to improve oneself should never be abandoned because of past failures and I won’t relent until I have reached my target weight.

I was at my happiest and most elegant when I was 70kg (see black and white photograph) and a size 10 (UK sizing).

But a woman of my current advanced age might look haggard in a totally fat-free body and face zone, so my target weight is 85kg…which will enable me to wear size 14 clothes.

This column will be monthly rather than weekly henceforth, so please look out for it again on the first Sunday of April.

SHAMING!Fat

BY

D

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U

KO

GB

AR

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WAR ON FAT PHASE TWO: MARCH 2021

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style

Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G N

TEMPOLATEXRAISING THE

With BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

Leggings have become an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe, right up there with jeans, but

that doesn’t mean that they have to be boring and basic black. For this who want to ‘raise the tempo’ opting for shinny Latex leggings certainly does the trick. Though the fabric

might seem a tad hot for this weather, it certainly does not feel so when worn. And besides, a little more warmth than usual is a small price to pay for the hotness of

your look. Latex though shiny in texture, is

actually quite forgiving on the skin depending on the top you wear with it. It’s also elongating and

when worn with heels, a very huge dose of sex appeal right there. They are also comfortable because it has

some stretch to it. For those who cannot show their

waistline and trim figure but still yearn to adorn one of these sexy leggings, don’t

despair...just wear a loose top over it and make sure the sinful bits are well

covered so the focus remains on your legs. The latex leggings are show stopping,

fashion forward and definitely back on the fashion scene.

BISOLA AIYELA

AMA GODSON

KIM KADASHIAN

SAINT LAURENT BLACK LATEX LEGGINS

YSL LATEX LEGGINS

SAINT LAURENT LATEX LEGGINGS

PRETTY LITTLE THING LATEX LEGGINS

LILIAN AFEGBAYI

IDIAH AISIEN

CHICHI

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style

Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021

grandpaDRESS UP

JEANS

Who knew grandpa dressing

could basically go main-stream?

Yes, we are talking about grandpa jeans that every IT girl has been

wearing lately. This jeans silhouette is tapered, straight,

and loose in shape. It is too

baggy but in a cool kind of way. To show you a

visual picture about this wide-leg fit,

we’ve rounded up various instances of wearing the denim

trend, Draw inspiration

from the different

looks.

With High-Top Sneakers

Figuring out a way to pair your grandpa jeans isn’t as simple as you wouldthink. If you don’t style them right, your entire outfit can fall from chic to chunky in seconds. For the ultimate fresh look, top them off with classic kicks and a loose tee

to finish. JENNY

With Fanny Pack

Another cool collaboration with your grandpa jeans can

come in the form of fanny packs. These waist belt bags are the

ultimate chic combination to jazz up the loose inspired pants.

NTADO DUMA

With PuffySleeved Blouse

Puffy sleeves are playful and fit rightfully with grandpa jeans. This

pairing is easily the modern update and also makes for a smart, work wear piece. The silhouette can also be right up your

alley if you are looking for a girly vibe and tempered touch. You may wear an architectural top with your baggy jeans

for a night-out look as well. SADE AKINOSHO

With Strappy Sandals

When we say this is a fresh idea, we really mean it. We’re talking about combining the innovative and unique

idea of grandpa jeans with strappy sandals. And there are a lot of ideas

that you can add into this mix. Be it a tailored blazer or a silky-silk blouse,

you are basically primed. BENGINE

With Oversized

BlazersThis trendy maestro of a slouchy blazer is anything but boring. The

good thing about wearing the oversized blazer is to match it with baggy jeans. This look totally means business and

if you’re looking to amp your look, then this blending will do the

trick. NADINE RODRIGUES

With Slingbacks

Pair the grandpa jeans with pointed slingbacks to bring about an unexpected appeal to the sassy look.

This is one of the hottest footwears so if you’re looking to bring your own spin with

the wide-legged pants, there are several options. Try a bright slingback to give

your denim a sweet symmetry or for something neutral, try white

jeans with a block heel. LISA FOLAWIYO

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G N THISDAY Style

Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021

E I G H T Y & V I B R A N T !

TAIWO

AJAI-LYCETTAs a mark of respect to International Women’s Day, 8th of March and also International Women’s Month of March, we are featuring women who have made indelible marks in their chosen fields. Many of these women have not only excelled and are excelling in their chosen paths of success, they are shattering ceilings and breaking down shackles of tradition with no apologies!Taiwo Ajai Lycett is a renowned actor, cosmetologist and journalist. She’s well grounded as an all-

round artist and has taken up major roles as an actor both locally and internationally.The multiple award winner actor who recently celebrated her 80th birthday, has definitely contributed

her quarter when it comes to timeless movies and storytelling globally.Ajai has featured in films like ‘Angels’, ‘Black and Blue’, ‘Oloibiri’ as well as plays such as ‘Life

Everlasting’ and The ‘National Health’ among others.Like most legends of their time, Ajai has had more than her fair share of highs and lows in her life.

One of which was being raped at the age of 65, a most haunting experience. But being the fiery-spirited woman that she is, Ajai refused to be engulfed in such mental anguish and chose instead to pick up the pieces and surge forward emotionally and mentally. In this interview with AZUKA OGUJIUBA, Ajai delves into various issues taking about the early days of her career, the narrative amongst 21st century contemporary women, her 80th birthday celebration, valuable fashion items, what she would like to be remembered for and much more. It’s such an interesting read, enjoy.

How has the year 2021 been for you so far?2021 promises to be a successful year. Yes we’ve

had some rumblings but we shall overcome. I think it promises a rebirth, that’s how I feel. We are in February and we all did it together. I have high hopes, very high hopes for all of us this year. A little bit dicey but we will get through.

You recently celebrated your 80th birthday, how does it feel?

Yes, that’s why I said this year is my year. I’m happy and it’s going to be a good year. It’s elevating. I going to celebrate all year. So, for all the blessings and joy I’m having from the Almighty, I hope Nigeria will tune into the that.

Given the chance to relive your life, would you still choose the same career path of acting?

I don’t want to change anything about my life. Not a thing. The good, the bad, the ugly, nothing. Those are the things that transformed my life. The sum total of my life is the mishmash of my life. Now, what I take from that is that, we all are invincible and if we know we are divine and we are indestructible, then we are okay. If we don’t, then we are destroyed.

How we react to what happens to us is the most important thing. If our reactions are negative then we are in deep nightmare but if you are optimistic then you would get around.

I’m quite happy how my life has turned out. So, I’m grateful and blessed.

What is your most treasured item at this point in your life?

Oh, I’ve got plenty! When I was robbed in my house, it was fascinating that some of the valuable things I had, the thieves didn’t recognize them as such. They took all the diamonds and gold but left out the

Afrocentric and more valuable items I have. Like the one I have on my wrists right now. They are more than gold. A friend got them for me from Dakar, Senegal. Those of us who know our heritage, will recognize how precious and valuable this is. So, when they left these ones, I was glad they did because they were ignorant. People always go for what’s shiny, but not all that glitters is gold.

Even at 80, you exude so much radiance that reflects outwards making you still beautiful. What’s the secret of this?

Wow! Coming from a beautiful young lady, that’s great compliment. Thank you. Now, the secret of my beauty is just living! No whining, no whinging, no regrets but gratitude. I’m grateful for everything I have, my fortune, my profession, my friends, my lovers, (when I say my lovers please don’t take it the other way. Everyone here is my lover. Those who love me with passion, those are the ones that keep me afloat, so I love people). Life is not always about you so don’t take yourself too seriously. I don’t take myself too seriously. I always care about the collective. I haven’t gone through what people might call struggle. The struggles that have been in my life are just ordinary and normal struggles that you go through. And at times you go through these kinds of struggles out of other people’s ignorance and not yours.

I’m in love with life and in love with love. It rejuvenates and renews you. I know it sounds unbelievable but it isn’t to me because that’s what I live on. Food you can eat but love, you can’t do without. Love is like water; you might not eat food for days but try not to drink water for a couple of days and you are finished.

Do you know the percentage of water that we are? So, you have to replenish that and that’s how I feel

about love.

Are there any leisurely activities you enjoyed in your younger days that you miss doing now because you are unable to?

No, because I continue to live, I don’t miss anything. I swim and I dance a great deal. And I believe that helps you. It also helps to rejuvenates you. It’s the greatest exercise ever because you shake off everything. It lubricates your joints and everything. So, I’m not worried about ageing thinking that I missed something, no. Actually, I wouldn’t want to be 25 again, I wouldn’t want to be 65 again or anything less because as you get older you should have peace of mind and a little bit of wisdom to go with that.

And of course, at 80, you already have the sheer freedom of being able to do what you want at your own pace, not being bothered about what other people think about you; whether they like you or not, which is fantastic. The wonderful knowledge that you are enough so you don’t worry about what anybody thinks anymore, in the sense that nobody influences you, you just do what’s right for you.

You are definitely a river of wisdom and we would like to learn more from you. What’s your take on the independence of today’s women who feel they don’t need men to complete them?

I think they got it all wrong and they are going to live to regret that line of thinking. It’s against nature and it’s against any sensible view of the society. I’m not saying anyone should be conformists but I’m saying the family of man is made up of family of man. It’s in this family you grow children to populate the world and give it structure to stabilize the world. I think it’s perversity for such women in particular.

Women have power but some of them don’t know the nature of the power that a woman possesses. We

How we react to what happens to us is the

most important thing. If our reactions are

negative then we are in deep nightmare but if

you are optimistic then you would get around. I’m quite happy how

my life has turned out. So, I’m grateful and

blessed.

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021C O V E RTHISDAY Style

Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021C O V E R

are the people who create the world. We are next to God. God is a woman. God wanted to populate the world and He came by himself and He came as a woman. All the Divine qualities that God has that we talk about; love, tolerance, forgiveness, overcoming, we associate all these with God. Now who is more loving than a mother? Who creates all the children in the world, tell me who wasn’t born by a woman? Nobody! That’s God at work and that’s how He decided to organize the world. Our women do not understand fully the power they have and their divinity. Because all that is ruling them is money. I’m here to tell you that money is a servant. Money is only important in the way it helps us buy food, clothes and all sorts. But if you measure your life on how rich you are, or that you have money, then your value system is upside down.

We just had a rich man die recently. He had 10 Rolls Royces, was he able to take any? Did it help his breathing when it came to it? The most valuable thing we have is our lives and when you start thinking money, positions and status are everything, then we are lost. All I can say to that question is that it’s an ignorant way of looking at the world. It’s idiotic, stupid and infantile. It’s coming from people who have not used their brains to think about how the world is organized because when you know that, then you will know the responsibility a woman has, to keep the world stable. If we had women governing us, we will have a different perception of what our needs are in this country.

Most of the countries where women are leaders are stable and doing well. It doesn’t mean they don’t have problems but the sensitivity, passion and grace that women have, men don’t have them. So, if someone sees me cry and thinks I’m weak, that person is stupid. If I see such girls, I’ll tell them, ‘Don’t you see how God made men and women? Men are there to give us the sperm to fertilize and we carry on and God provided them so that when we are supposedly weak or in gestation period, they can come in and protect the home front but the person who keeps the home together is a woman’. As a woman, once you have a child, that child becomes your preoccupation and it doesn’t matter how many of them you have, you live for them unlike the fathers who live for their girlfriends. But a woman, even if she’s having lovers, her children are usually her top priority.

Then you want to deny yourself such power and responsibility of being a mother because you feel you are “liberated” and don’t need a man? That’s so irresponsible. What about the children you are likely to have, do you think it’s only money that raises children? Why deny them a father figure?

Do you know what happens to Nigerians abroad who take their children there thinking they want to start a new life with them? They go in there working all day and don’t have time for the children. These children go to plazas stabbing one another and becoming nuisance to others.

So, if you are a responsible woman you should know that the kids need both parents and more so, the influence of their mothers.

In the yester-years, was it a struggle for you to convince your parents to accept your career path?

Not my parents particularly, but my siblings who didn’t understand such a path. As a matter of fact, my mother in her days, was an actor in their Church so they had an idea of what that was. Then my paternal grandfather was a minister. Whenever he performed in any neighborhood, the place was shut down. So I got show business in my veins. My father told me that

I was a throwback of his father. So I was quite relaxed in being an actor.

You became a rape victim at 65 and currently Nigeria has increasing cases of rape. What in your opinion should be the right punishment for rapists and what do you believe should be the way forward for the country in tackling this disturbing situation?

I have been talking about ‘quantum physics; cause and effect’ all along, we have a society that commodifies women. We are nothing in their eyes, we are just there to be used. A man would be arguing with you and tell you “I have one like you at home” but no, he doesn’t! We are special but he’s so ignorant that he doesn’t know. They don’t value women. We have a Legislature that contains pedophiles, some are married to 12, 13 or 14-year olds and some who aren’t married yet they are eyeing such minors. It’s a sick society. So

that self-righteousness of regulating homosexuals is sad. If you have a society like that, and you have preponderance of men in the police force and the security system, many women are just there doing nothing. Even in the Legislature, what are the women doing there? They are just following the men around. As long as you keep having these kind of situations, the women don’t have any value in this society. Remember I told you earlier how powerful women are and how divine we are but see the contrast?

So, I report to the police station, do they do anything? “What’s the woman there for if not to be slept with, so what’s the big deal if your boyfriend rapes you. So what do you want me to do?” That’s how they think. They see you immediately and they start to have fantasies of sleeping with you. Are these the people you think will enact laws that will protect the women or look after anybody? They are too dumb to know that these women being raped could be their mothers, sisters or daughters, aunties. How sick can it be for a 74-year-old man to rape a 5-year-old and nobody is doing anything about it? In Saudi Arabia they would have chopped his head off.

If you run a government or society of impunity, you can get away with anything particularly if you have “long legs” or you know somebody who knows somebody. This is why I’m saying, it’s about time, women start grooming themselves and start supporting each other. This is not a gender role; I’m just

saying it as it is. It’s not a question of whether I hate men, I love being heterosexual, I love men but they are useless. When it comes to fighting for you forget it, they won’t.

So, you women in communications and women generally, should start thinking of what’s important in your life instead of thinking that the men are going to do it. It’s women that are going to do it.

Put more women in power and in position of authority, train more women, support, one another and vote one another. Most women would rather vote for men than the women. You should change the perception and start thinking of the girl-child instead of staying around saying ‘I don’t need a man I’ve my own money’ and all that nonsense. There are bigger fishes to fry, bigger issues that women should concentrate on but they are not, which is why I call them idiots, because if you are not using your brain someone else will use it for you. That’s what men are doing.

Women concentrate on looking pretty in order for men to like them so they can give them houses in Lekki, take them to Dubai and then give them shops. Is that the sum total of your ambition? When you can have the world and contribute to it positively. All I can say to these girls is stop being parasites, make your own contributions! Don’t say the men won’t let us, no! Nobody gives you power, you take it, you earn it.

Did anyone stop me? Did racial discrimination stop me? Did it stop Ngozi Okonjo Iweala? Did it stop Oby Ezekwesili?

So enough of the excuses. You are lazy and you are saying someone is trying to stop you.

What would you like to be remembered for?That I loved and was being loved. I’m not my look,

not the clothes I wear, I’m not my house, I’m not my shoes, I’m not all these, I’m me. I’m Loved. That I have loved and I’m being loved passionately. That had genuine relationships. I like you to remember that I was real, that I was fierce and that we were together, that’s enough for me.

Women concentrate on looking pretty in order for men to like them

so they can give them houses in Lekki, take them to Dubai and then

give them shops. Is that the sum total of your ambition? When you can have the world and contribute

to it positively. All I can say to these girls is stop being parasites, make your own contributions! Don’t say the men won’t let us, no! Nobody gives you power, you take it, you

earn it.

DO CLASSYON A BUDGET

Do you want to look like a million bucks, but think you can’t because you don’t have the money? You don’t have to be rich to look expensive! And, when you wear clothes that you love and fit well, you acquire confidence! Follow these tips to look expensive while on a budget:

COORDINATE YOUR SHOES & BAG A key to making your outfits look polished is coordinating your shoes and bag. If you wear black shoes then carry a black bag. Brown shoes look great with a brown bag in the same colour tone. You can venture out a bit by wearing black shoes with a nude or a solid colour bag, like pink. Leopard flats or heels look great with a black or nude bag.

WEAR SUNGLASSESWear sunglasses and you’ll look cool and collected! Perhaps the images of celebrities wearing beautiful sunglasses have been an influence on us to wear them. The more dandy sunglasses help make your outfit look expensive.

TOKE MAKINWA

SERWAA AMHERE

DIMMA UMEH

NIMI NWAFOR

WUNMI

WEAR POINTED FLATS OR HEELSWomen who wear flats or heels that are pointed have a look that screams expensive! Black or nude are popular colours that go with everything. They are considered wardrobe essentials.

WEAR BLACKBlack is a neutral, it goes with everything. Since it is a solid colour, it coordinates with other colours and patterns. When we think of the colour black, we think of Coco Chanel. She made black and white famous in her tailored clothes and fabrics.

WEAR LIP COLOUR Wear a lip colour with a tint like red, coral or pink. Red is a classic. It goes great with black and white. Wear a shade that looks good with your skin tone.

BY F

UN

KE B

ABS-

KUFE

JI

C O V E R

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G N

MONOCHROME OUTFITSDressing head to toe in a single colour may sound daunting, but it is one of the easiest ways to elevate your look. Whether in a bold red or a subdued yellow, a monochrome outfit takes

the guesswork out of getting dressed. With this strategy, pulling together an outfit has never been easier because you won’t have to worry if two pieces co-ordinate.

A few tips to keep in mind: You don’t necessarily need to have pieces in the exact same

shade to make this look work. And if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try adding a contrasting pop of colour with your shoes or accessory. The joy of the monochrome fashion trend is wearing different shades and tints of the same colour and not just same solid colours. Take a look at styling tips on combining existing pieces of your wardrobe into a stylish monochrome outfit.

styling your

select the right colours

It’s important to select a colour that looks great against your skin tone and hair. If your

complexion is very fair and you have blonde hair, opt to wear navy instead of harsh black. Women

with dark skin and dark hair could opt for a deeper colour like burgundy or purple. If you’re new to

monochromatic outfits and not sure what colour to begin with, start with dark neutrals, like black, navy,

gray, and brown. If you are feeling brave, you can also try darker richer monochromatic colours, like burgundy, eggplant, and hunter green. These are

the best colours to play with and most likely you already own clothing in these neutral

colours. MODEL FOR YUTEE RONE

achieve right balance

Remember balance when combining pieces. This is a rule for every outfit, not

just monochromes. You don’t want the one colour to overwhelm you. Quite the contrary,

you want it to make you look tall and lean. To achieve this, play with proportions. If you’re wearing a billowy top, make sure

to pair it with fitted bottoms. With a full A-line skirt wear a form-fitting

top. Model for VICNATE

mix textures

Make sure you mix textures within your monochrome outfit! You want to

add visual interest, depth, and dimension to your look so it’s not one-dimensional or

boring. Some texture combinations you can try pairing together are denim and chiffon, leather and cotton, suede and silk, wool and sequins. And don’t forget your shoes when it comes to texture. They play a role in adding interest to

your outfit. Consider how leather, patent, suede, or satin shoes will work with the

outfit you’re trying to create. Or sequined heels!

CHIC AMA

coordinating metallics

This is a great colour that goes well with any skin tone. Remember, to try on a colour

first to make sure it works for your colouring. The opposing texture of the pants (sequins) and the light texture of the top oppose one another and again create a balance. Think of this look like a judicial scale. One texture on

one side needs to be balanced out by the opposing texture on the other side. This is a chic look for a family party

or wedding. SHARRON CLEAR

add in a touch

of patternMonochrome outfits don’t just have

to be made up of solid pieces; you can incorporate patterns or prints but be warned

it would be a little more difficult to find a pattern that matches your colour scheme. To add visual interest and to break up the solid

blocks of colour, add a print piece made up of the same colour you’re working

with. You can also try adding a patterned scarf for fun. LILIAN

AFEGBAI

accentuate the right areas

Accentuate the right areas of your body using the right colour. When wearing the same colour in different tints and shades, you want to

pay attention to how dark or light each piece is. If you have very wide hips and want to play them down, you wouldn’t wear light coloured pants or skirt. More

flattering would be the dark shade of the colour on the bottom half and the lighter tint on top. Like dark navy

pants and a lighter blue shirt. You could also add a belt to accentuate your waist in the monochrome

colours you’ve selected. A belt is a great option if your outfit is flowing and you need to

add some structure or definition. LERATO SEUOE

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021

#TEAMHEELS ALL THE WAY

Heels are a woman’s best friend! Well, if you can walk around comfortably

in them, adding a pair of heels to your closet is must. So here’s a list to

choose from according to your liking and comfort.

BLOCK HEELSBlock heels come into

picture when you want

comfort. They are

broader than stilettos

and bring more stability

to your posture.

Choose from slender

bases to full wedges

or mules. Own a pair of

mules that are trending

and look perfect for

every occasion!

PLATFORM

HEELSThough they may not

be your everyday

wear, platform

heels are the most

comfortable of the

lot. These are for

those long days

when you’re mostly

on your feet. They

give better balance

as the width of heels

is uniform all across.

STILETTOSHigh and narrow, these

makes the legs look long

and elongated for a lean

silhouette. Stilettoes get

narrower towards the

end and are pointed at

the toes. They may not

be very comfortable for

long hours but definitely

make a statement! So

save the stilettos for

those night events which

demand you to look

dressy with minimal

moving around.

PUMPSPumps are usually lower

in height than stilettos.

Pumps offer you the

needed height along with

stability in movement.

Choose from the peep-

toes or closed-toes as

per your preference. If

it’s your first pair, go for

a nude or black colour.

VERONICA ODEKA

ESPADRILLES

These are the casual, rope-

soled shoes which are

either flat or sometimes

high-heeled. Apt for those

looking for comfort paired

with some edgy style!

DITA RITCHIE ESPADRILLES

JENNIFER OBAYUWANA

CHICHI

INIDIMA OKOJIE

STILETTOS CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

GUCCI PLATFORM

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

VIOLET EZEDIMORA

REBECCA MINKOFF BLOCK HEELS

KITTEN HEELSFor everyone who detests

high heels, kitten heels can

be a good option. Or if you’re

tall and don’t need to add

on to your height, they

are the perfect fit. They

are not very high or even

too narrow. Perfect for

elevating the outfit

and not bothering the

height, kitten heels

are for everyday

use.

DIOR KITTEN HEELS

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S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021

MAKEUPPRODUCTS & BENEFITS

BEST NATURAL

Saie Mascara 101Saie uses all-natural

ingredients for its small, yet quality, line of makeup. This includes their Mascara 101, a thick and paraben-free mascara.

It relies on beeswax and quackgrass extract to strengthen, lengthen, and shape eyelashes. It also contains organic shea butter, which helps condition lashes.

This mascara is also free of propylene glycol. Users say it doesn’t irritate eyes or sensitive skin.

Mineral Fusion Eye PencilThis eye pencil is a

hypoallergenic, cruelty-free eyeliner designed to define. People also use it to create a smoky eye look, thanks to its smooth formula.

It contains skin-friendly ingredients like vitamin E, meadowfoam, and jojoba. It’s

also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin.

This natural eyeliner is also free of gluten, parabens, and phthalates. Plus, some people use it as a brow pencil, suggesting its potential as a multiuse product.

Mineral Fusion Eye Shadow Trio

This eye shadow trio is a natural, talc trusted source-free alternative to conventional eye shadow. It’s cruelty-free and contains no fragrance, gluten, parabens, or phthalates.

It features a blend of botanical ingredients, including aloe vera, white tea, and grape seed. Some color options also contain chamomile and vitamin E, which can be soothing on the skin.

Most of the trios contain carmine, a dye made from dried bugs. If you’re vegan or allergic to carmine, check the ingredient list before purchasing.

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Correct Multi-Action Concealer

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Correct Multi-Action Concealer is a natural, non-GMO concealer with a mousse-like texture. It’s formulated to blend easily and provide coverage.

The active ingredients are pomegranate, coffee, and organic algae. It’s free of parabens, dimethicone, and propylene glycol.

Users love how natural it looks. They also say that it’s gentle and doesn’t cause irritation. This product comes in six shades.

Maia’s Mineral Galaxy Mineral Foundation

In general, it’s difficult to find natural foundations in a wide range of shades. Maia’s Mineral Galaxy Minera Foundation has a variety - 22, to be exact.

This powder foundation is formulated to provide even, lightweight coverage. It contains a blend of pure minerals, along with organic arrowroot powder and kaolin clay, and is free of parabens.

Rejuva Age Defying Liquid Foundation

This botanical liquid foundation is designed for all skin types. It provides moderate coverage and leaves a semi-dewy, natural finish.

If you prefer a liquid foundation to a powdered one, this product could be a good choice. It comes in six shades.

Beneficial ingredients include coconut oil, sunflower oil, and aloe leaf juice. Keep in mind that while coconut oil is moisturizing, for some people it causes breakouts.

This product is formulated without gluten, talc, soy, or animal byproducts.

Crunchi Make Me BlushCrunchi Make Me Blush is a

botanical, highly pigmented pressed blush. It’s packaged in biodegradable paperboard.

The blush is vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO. Beneficial ingredients include organic virgin argan oil, rice powder, oregano extract, and lavender.

Users say the four colours look soft and natural on the skin. Some even use it as a lip stain or eye colour.

RMS Beauty Luminizer X Quad

This highlighter quad creates a natural glow. It’s made of plant-derived ingredients, including castor seed oil, coconut oil, and rosemary.

The shades, which can be mixed together, are free of gluten and soy. They’re also cruelty-free and non-GMO.

Since this product contains beeswax, it’s not vegan-friendly. It also contains coconut oil, which may clog pores for some.

In recent years, natural makeup has become all the rage. People are caring more about what they put on their faces and body. They’re studying labels, researching brands, and learning about potentially harmful substances found in traditional makeup.

Consequently, people are turning toward natural makeup, like lipstick colored with fruit pigment. It’s also known as clean, green, or nontoxic makeup.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between natural and regular makeup.

We’ve also rounded up 10 of the best natural makeup products online. We chose these products due to their excellent ratings from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The EWG rates cosmetics, toiletries, and skin care products based on their potential health hazards and concerns.

Mineral Fusion LipstickThis lipstick adds colour while

providing hydration and moisture. Its active ingredients are shea butter, jojoba oil, and pomegranate, along with vitamins C and E.

Mineral Fusion Lipstick is pigmented with mineral colours instead of synthetic dyes. Like other Mineral Fusion products, it doesn’t contain parabens, phthalates, or artificial fragrances.

According to users, this lipstick feels smooth and has staying power.

C’est Moi Reflect Lip GlossThis paraben-free, sheer lip gloss adds

shine and colour. It contains a blend of moisturizing plant oils, including castor seed oil and sunflower seed oil. Many of its botanical ingredients are organic.

This gloss, along with the brand’s entire line, was created for people with sensitive and delicate skin.

Since this gloss is made with beeswax and carmine, it’s not vegan.

Benefits to natural makeupWhile all clean makeup isn’t created equal, there are some

general benefits to using it.

1. Reduced exposure to harmful ingredients Many people like natural makeup because it has fewer

potentially harmful synthetic ingredients.

2. Fewer odor-induced headaches Some companies scent their makeup with artificial

fragrances. Usually, this is done to mask other ingredients or enhance the branding of the product because odors can trigger headaches in people who are prone to migraine. For some, this may include fragrances used in scented makeup.

Since natural makeup is usually fragrance-free, it might be an ideal alternative if you’re sensitive to strong odors.

3. Lower risk of skin irritation The preservatives, dyes, and fragrances in regular makeup

can cause contact dermatitis. This involves an itchy red rash due to skin sensitivity or an allergic reaction.

In fact, cosmetics are the most common cause of fragrance-related contact dermatitis. Compared to rinse-off products like shampoo and cleanser, items like lipstick and eye shadow are more likely to cause skin issues because they’re worn for long periods.

Using natural makeup without preservatives, dyes, and fragrances can limit your risk of skin irritation.

4. Safer for sensitive skin Natural products are generally well tolerated by people with

sensitive skin. Regular cosmetics, on the other hand, often trigger flare-ups and increase irritation.

For instance, people with eczema are encouraged to use products without synthetic dyes. Makeup with plant-based ingredients is also recommended.

Unlike traditional makeup, natural products are more likely to check these boxes.

5. Contains skin-healthy ingredients In addition to enhancing your features, natural makeup can

give your skin a healthy boost. Clean beauty products contain plant ingredients that could benefit your skin. Examples include:

• avocado oil • shea butter • rosehip oil • jojoba oilThese oils have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-

repairing properties. Natural makeup is also coloured with plant pigments like fruit

extracts. While there isn’t hard evidence on the skin benefits of plant pigments, it’s thought that these ingredients nourish the skin with vitamins and antioxidants.

BY USIADE ISIOMA

3 WAYS

ONE LOOK

SLEEK & CLASSICThis look is great for a dressier occasion. Pair the skirt with your favourite black bodysuit for a sleek, fitted look. Nude pointed heels and minimal accessories to finish the look! Think date night, a baby shower, cocktail party, happy hour or even girl’s night.

EVERYDAY OFFICE CHICFor this look, pair the DOS skirt with a matching top, which is a bit loose. Tuck in the top to create a sleek look that makes it look like a dress. The top offers the right amount of loose and flowy to compliment the skirt. It hangs nicely on the body and looks sophisticated and chic creating a balanced look which is key when wearing co-cords.

BUSINESS MEETING READYThis look will have you taking on a business meeting in style. If you are tired of wearing a business suit, you can update your look with a midi skirt which is ideal for any business meeting. These pieces are different fabrics and textures, but together they create one well put-together look and will give you the confidence to run a smooth meeting.

A midi skirt is a classic piece that looks chic no matter what you pair it with. It has the perfect amount of ruching and draping to

flatter any shape and size.Versatility and length, you don’t have to worry about showing too much leg, which makes it that much more

wearable. It can be worn anywhere and dressing it up or down is a cinch. Make the most of your wardrobe when you have a simple

DOS clothing’s midi skirt; it’s one look three ways with this essential piece. Having one outfit that fits different events is key for any

working woman.

BY USIADE ISIOMA

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style

Vol. 22, No. 9432 Sunday, March 7, 2021S T Y L E & D E S I G N