I have been influenced by my colleague to try on this hairstyle. I have always secretly admired people bold enough to have dreads but I can’t imagine having one hairstyle for the rest of my life or till I cut my hair.
Another reason I avoid the natural dreads is that when it comes to keeping and maintaining dreadlocks, there is a lot of work to be done. Maintenance requires a lot of products and this could cause build up in your hair. There are two things you need to note when it comes to maintaining dreadlocks.
The first is that just as much as you add products to your hair, you have to monitor the extent to which they are used. Secondly, as you add products to your hair, you have to take care of their after effect.
You don’t have to go through this stress with the artificial dreads except you carry it for a very long time. You can style your hair once and use it for up to three months at a stretch.
Since I am so caring I have decided to share with you all. This is my next hairstyle by the way.

You simply purchase at least 3 packs of the hair extension specifically for this hair style
You can pick different colours; brown, black even grey
The extensions are applied as you would fix braids or weave afro kinky It can be permanent or temporary, the temporary form can last for about 3 months and is made of yarn or synthetic fibres while the permanent form is what it is – permanent. Human hair is wrapped around your natural hair or actual human hair locs are attached to your roots.
Texture: for a temporary loc-in you have the choice between yarn which is lighter in weight and comes in various colours which are easy to get or synthetic fibres which are heavier and come in different textures
Length: keep in mind that the longer the length, the heavier the load. Either way, the locs always look great

Let’s see how you look.

Your baby has grown, your Maternity Leave is up, and now it’s time to go back to work or study. Are you ready? And is your family ready?
After I saw a close friend experience separation anxiety resuming work and leaving her child to the care of others, I saw this as a needful article.
Family life can get more complicated with parents working or studying. There are care arrangements to organise, logistics to plan, and conflicting emotions to process.
So what can help ease the transition for both you and your child?
Here are some tips;
Recognize and work on your emotions
You’re likely to experience a range of emotions, such as guilt at leaving your child in someone else’s care, and worry about how your child will manage without you. But you may also feel excited about the possibilities of having time away from your child, and freedom to explore a new way of being a person and a parent.
You should know that all of these emotions are normal and valuable, you can make the most of the opportunities, and manage the guilt and worry more easily.
Support your child
 If your child has largely been at home with you, beginning childcare can be a big change. Depending on your child’s temperament, it’s common for them to express some separation anxiety, which may include crying when you leave, clinging onto you, and not wanting you to go.
At drop off, it often helps to get your child settled into an activity, explain that you’re leaving but you’ll be back, and then leave without too much delay. You can always call to find out how your child is going a little later.
Staff at the centre or at home even your caring relatives can also work with you to support a gentle transition into care.
Get practical
When beginning child care, it’s useful to have a good understanding of how it works. Practical questions to ask for daycare might include: What times can I drop off and pick up my child? Will I be able to visit and call my child at any time? Do you provide nappies and meals or do I need to provide them?
It’s also useful to have an understanding of child to staff ratios, the skills and experience of staff, and how staff will encourage your child’s learning and development. With these practical questions answered, you can feel more confident and comfortable with leaving your child in care.
Learning and growing together
Education begins at home from the minute a baby is born. But child care can broaden and develop your child’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
Focus on quality
A quality childcare centre opens up your child’s world to new relationships and new opportunities to play, learn and develop.
Conduct a thorough reference check. 
Do not rely on the nanny agency’s background check as the final word — conduct your own.
Carry Out Medical Screenings
Screen for HIV, Hepatitis B and other communicable ailments in your caretaker and request same from your day care centre.
 
 
 

When people think about France they usually think about the city of love, Paris. But as a single girl the French Riviera is paradise. Cote d’Azur its original name before renamed by the English.
For a Nigerian visiting The French Riviera you would need a Schengen visa & this is what you’ll need;
1. Passport (with a validity with more than 6 months)
2. 1 Visa application form
3. 1 Photo (3.5×4.5, taken recently, against a white background)
4.  Flight booking confirmation slip
5.  Documents to prove ability to pay for travel expenses
           A certificate of income or a tax declaration
           certificate issued by a public agency or
           Personal bank statement for last 3 months
6.   Schedule of stay or Travel itenary
            Hotel booking etc
7.   Letter of employment(original and photocopy)
8.  Introduction letter from employer
French Riviera
The French Riviera is the Mediterranean coastline of the southeast corner of France. Cities like the sovereign state of Monaco, Nice, Saint Tropez, Toulon, Cannes, Hyeres and more are part of the Riviera. It’s no surprise that the French Riviera is a major tourist attraction. Situated at and to the east of the point where the Alps meet the Mediterranean, it is an area that enjoys a wonderfully mild to warm climate all year round.
Through autumn and Winter, the Riviera is protected from cold north winds by the Alps in its hinterland; since frosts and snow are rare, Spring comes early, bringing the first mimosas into bloom by February; by April the days are normally sunny and warm, and gardens already filled with flowers. From May to September or October, the climate is ideal, with plenty of sunshine and warm to hot days and beautifully warm nights.
Resorts
There are a lot of wonderful resorts spanning the coastline of the French Riviera depending on where you decide to visit in the Riviera. These are open all year round. There are mostly built along or close to the marina so tourists can enjoy the breath-taking views and indulged in the wild life. Resorts you can check out include Les Balons D’Azur, The Hyatt Regency Nice Palais De La Mediterranee et al.
Eat Your Heart Out
We all know about the French cuisine so let’s not say too much before I get a food panic attack, but I will recommend a few dishes and drinks that are a must try from the Riviera. Dine like royalty and a movie star or artist their favourites include Tapenade, Nougat, omelette aux truffes, Ratatouille (yes it’s the dish from the Disney cartoon), aioli, tarte tropezienne, fromage de chevre, bouillabaisse.
Fashion & Pop Culture
Just like food the French are known for fashion, the French Rivera has housed a lot of the world renounced fashionistas like Coco Chanel just to name a few. There are a list of must have fashion items you would need to bleed in with the fancy folk on the coast. You must have you your minimal bikinis so you sun bath on a yacht or the beach, the little white dress, your flares & cropped pants, get you a straw hat so you can look like a movie star from the 50’s last but not the least your chiffon dress game must be tight. Your fashion will complement the scenery during the day and buzzing night life which celebrities from Puff Daddy to Leonardo Di Carpio have been known to indulge in.
 Festivals and fireworks
This is probably the most exciting thing about the French Riviera. Several events include.

Monaco; Monte Carlo Masters (Tennis), April/May
Monaco; Formular One Grand Prix, May
Cannes; Cannes Film Festival, May
Nice; Jazz Festival, July
Toulon; Toulon Tournament. Tall Ships Race

 
Any sponsors?

Anyone who knows me knows that my Eyebrows affect my mood. I am not being dramatic, they even affect my self esteem. At the moment I have a whack job done to my eyebrows. My regular place was closed so I decided to walk into a popular beauty store to get it done. The results were saddening. The one true saving grace I have is been able to fill my eyebrows well to give the illusion that they are perfect. I tell you this is one of the life skills you need as a woman.
Assess Your Brows
The most important thing to know is the shape of your natural eyebrows. Balance and proportion are what the human eye perceives as beautiful.  There are different eyebrow shapes and knowing what suits you is half the work done.
Brush Your Brows
Pin Share Whether you want your brows to look structured and precise, or wild and unruly, brushing your brows is the most important step.
Shape Your Brows
Here in Nigeria, we are used to the razor. I am lucky to be hairy so I use different methods depending on my mood to get my eyebrows in shape. I actually enjoy waxing. Though the blade is faster, it is a skill I haven’t been able to master. In an emergency or when I am alone I tweeze my eyebrows to shape, removing excess hairs destroying the shape.
Fill in Your Brows
There are many different ways to fill in eyebrows, you can use a pencil or a dip brow pomade. It just depends on personal preference. The pomade is easier for some but I prefer the pencil. Small strokes are key in order to properly blend the colour into your brow while still looking natural. I see some people just draw a straight line and wonder why it doesn’t look like what they see in magazines. I guess this is why people prefer the dip brow. Anastasia Beverly Hills makes a good product. If you are a beginner you can easily use this. After shaping your eyebrows, you use the pencil or dip brow to give volume.
Set (Your Eyebrows)
You should always set your freshly formed eyebrows with a brow gel that is either clear or tinted. This will confirm that your brows are waterproof and sure to last all day.

I always wonder how some women don it. They look so classy walking effortlessly in heels even standing for hours on end. Wearing heels for me can be a struggle but I do it because sometimes yanga dey pain.
 When Marilyn Monroe said “Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world,” we’re fairly certain she was talking about heels.
That is from Marilyn but there is nothing sexy about wearing heels and walking like a baby calf.  But if you can’t walk in said heels? That is a serious problem I am going to try to solve with these steps.
Walk Heel to Toe
The easiest way to look like ungainly in heels is to put your whole foot down at once, as if you’re wearing flats. It may seem obvious to many, but when wearing a high shoe, put your heel down first, followed by your toe. This will make your walk look more natural. 
Take Small Steps
Wearing heels makes your stride shorter than normal, so you’ll have to take an increased number of small steps to go the same distance. Add in a slight wiggle and this can work in any woman’s favour.
Don’t Rush
Trying to walk quickly in heels can not only look awkward but end in disastrous trip or fall. Between the smaller steps and the compromised balance, it’s best to take your time in heels. Besides, walking slowly gives off an air of confidence.
Lean Slightly Back
You may find you want to walk faster than your heels will allow, and end up bending your neck to compensate. So allow yourself to lean a bit back when walking in heels, as this will counteract your inclination to push your torso forward. 
Visualize Yourself Walking In A Straight Line
When you want to draw a straight line, you’ll get better results if you look at your end point as you draw, rather than looking at your pencil as it moves. Similarly, when walking in heels, you’ll walk more gracefully if you look at your goal point (the cafe at the end of the street, for example), and visualize a straight line going toward your end point, rather than staring down at your toes as you walk. 
Arch Your Foot Slightly
As you take each step, or if you feel yourself slipping, arch your foot slightly to put pressure on the inside of your shoe. This will make your shoe fit closer to your foot, making it easier to maneuver.
Make Sure Your Shoes Fit
If your shoes are ill-fitting, it makes the difficult task of walking naturally in heels almost impossible. If your heels are too big, use shoe pads for a better fit. If they are too small, consider having them stretched by a local cobbler, or try this hack to stretch them yourself.

Sometimes it’s the smallest change in your look that can impart the greatest difference. You don’t always have to reboot your entire closet in order to look brand new (although, of course, I would never shame you for doing such an exciting thing).
Adding a cap to your wardrobe choices is the answer. I know it may seem too simple but it works, trust me. You can style it different ways depending on your outfit.
Snapbacks, berets, baseball caps are taking centre stage amongst celebrities and fashionistas. Before you say you are neither, imagine picking up your kid in the afternoon looking all fly in the latest cap style or just strolling down to the supermarket.
Caps were really popular in the 80s.This retro style has returned with more styles and looks. These days, caps come in various styles, fabrics and textures. I have seen some cool Ankara ones around. Leather is pretty cool if you got spunk. They really will fit everyone, some more than others as observed with certain Nigerian artistes. There is no need for taking measurements prior to buying a cap. Meaning you can easily see one online and just shop.
The best part about this trend for us women is that it is perfect on days your hair refuses to co-operate, if you have had that weave in too long and when you have something to hide.
To wear a classic caps
Choose a bright, colorful and eye-catching outfit, and don’t shy away from bright lips, either. Then brush your hair down and casually throw your cap on top. It’s understated and casual, yet very on trend.
You don’t have to be dressed casually to rock a cap. You can pair a cute dress with a cap. It gives a quirky yet unique look.
You can especially wear it for outdoor and sports related activities.
If you are a tomboy, I bet you already own one. We girly girls are just jumping on this trend.
 

I hear people complain so much about the new generation of men. Heck, even I have complained. Now you hear more tribal stereotypes Yoruba this, Igbo that, Hausa men are like this and I wonder why the complaints are louder than ever. I started tracing the root of this problem, I came to a conclusion that it is up to us to bring up our sons to be the men we wish we had, the men we would be proud of.
Your son will get lots of information—some true, some false—from his peers and the media, so he needs your help to sort it all out.
1. Teach him about his body
Teaching your son about his body should be an open, honest and continuous conversation, starting at an early age. When boys are 8 or 9 years old, they are widely varied in their levels of curiosity and understanding. Some may ask lots of questions, while others may be wondering about things to themselves. Respond to their questions, but don’t wait for them to come to you. And, if they ask you a question you’re not ready to respond to, it’s okay to say, “Let me think about it.” Just make sure you follow through with an answer. If someone is bullying your son or touching him in an inappropriate or harmful way, help him feel comfortable with saying “no” and telling an adult. It will be easier for him if you already established an open, honest dialogue. Let them know what is right and wrong touching and to report anyone who tries to touch their private parts. Always ask about what games are being played especially with older children, adults and caretakers.
2. Teach him responsibility
I am a strong advocate of involving children in household chores from an early age. Teach him proper personal and environmental hygiene, to take care of his toys and belongings. Don’t leave the chores to your daughter. For those that have a husband that helps with the dishes, you know what a relief that can be. Please give that gift to your future daughter in law. You simply must teach him to save.
3. Teach him to develop his talents
Encourage your son to be active and try new things, from organized sports to playing with friends. Physical activity is not only good for the body, but it’s also a great opportunity to be active and interact with other children. By supporting their interests whether in music, arts, craft, sports, politics even and helping them decide what they want to participate in, you can also help them understand and build towards a future career or hobby. At a young age, let them explore.
4. Teach him to love, show affection and care
I encourage getting children pets but we all know how stressful that can be. If you have the power, go for it. Encourage care and concern for siblings, relatives and friends. To the best of your ability mark birthdays and celebrate achievements.
5. Privacy in person and online
You have to decide what age you would let your children join social networks or how much freedom they are allowed with phones, gadgets and the internet. Talk with your son about the importance of personal space and personal information—and respecting his own privacy, as well as others. Teach him about social media responsibility that anything posted online, including pictures of himself, is available for anyone, any time to see.
6. Teach him about faith
It is important for your child to have an anchor. No matter how far he may stray your words and teachings would be a moral compass. You cannot be there all the time but he will always have his conscience.

I know everyone and their grandmother has gone to Dubai. If you haven’t, don’t feel bad rather don’t snub Dubai. Dubai can be wonderful if you take time to see the sights. It is not just a place to shop, you can have a wonderful family vacation, honeymoon or just me time.
Desert Safari
A visit to Dubai is never complete without a Desert Safari. The adrenaline rush through the heady driving in a 4X4 vehicle or a quad bike is an exceptional moment, indescribable in words. Even though this activity will take up 6 hours on your clock, adventure junkies could opt for the Evening tours, which include BBQ and belly dance.  Plus it photographs well.
Shopping in Dubai
The list of shopping malls in Dubai is countless right from the humongous malls selling branded goods to the small shops famous for trinkets and souvenirs. Whichever mall you decide to visit, you have to go on a tax free shopping spree in Dubai.
Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah beach is a must visit attraction for any tourist in Dubai. More than the beach itself, the long strip of five star hotels instantly catches your attention. There are lot of water sports and family activities to do on the beach itself, especially the Kite beach which attracts a lot of Kite surfers. Reserve your evenings for the beach activities.
Dubai Creek Cruise
Cruising down Dubai Creek is a once in a lifetime experience particularly when it’s on a traditional Dhow in the shadows of the moonlight. If you are traveling as a couple, the cruise sets up a perfect romantic setting amidst the flickering background lights, music and belly dancing and BBQ buffet dinner. The cruise takes approximately 2 hours of sailing in the Dubai Creek.
Ski Dubai
The world’s famous indoor ski slope in the Mall of Emirates has some amazing setting for beginners and intermediaries to enjoy snow activities like skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing.
Wild Wadi
The kids will love the killing waves whilst the adults will time-travel back to their younger days. A perfect place if you are a water baby.
Afternoon Tea at the Burj Al Arab
A stay in the Burj Al Arab is dream accomplished only by a few. For the others who want to gather memories of a visit to the Burj Al Arab rather than just clicking photos of the hotel from a distance, the idea of afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar provides an insight to the splendor of the hotel’s interiors.
Hot Air Balloon Flight
The hot air balloon flight in Dubai is a renowned activity for taking in the amazing views of Dubai; numerous tour operators have started offering this service because of its consistent popularity. If you have the extra cash, try to book a ticket to take a trip around Dubai in a hot air balloon, the views are fantastic and unforgettable.
Parachute Jump/Skydiving
First time jumpers are just going to love this! Learn to aviate and enjoy the experience of total weightlessness in the sky. As you venture into open air, memorize the bird eye’s view of the Palm Island, Sheikh Zayed Road, Arabian Sea and the Jumeirah Beach. However, be prepared to allot at least 3 hours for parachute jumping and adventure skydiving.
 

‘No matter how broke, the average woman would still do something to her hair’
-Amanda Etuk
You cannot argue with my logic whether you say she will wash it at home, she would buy the shampoo. If she is going to cut it, she would need scissors and a clipper. If she is like some people I know she would need to steam it, dye it, straighten it, relax it, install a weave, braid it etc. You get the picture. Woman must make hair. Would it not be great to be part of the industry servicing this need? Let me rephrase. Don’t you want your share of the cake?
Owning a salon in Nigeria is a very lucrative business. It is a business that can be done on the side or full time depending on your availability, goals and projection. It is also a business one can start even if you do not possess any beauty skills.
My friend and I have had this idea to set up a salon for the longest time ever. So I am sort of a self-proclaimed expert on what needs to be done. Holla Investors!
What are you drawn to about salons; the ambience? The expertise? Location? Convenience? Cost?
These are some of the factors people consider before choosing salons. The salon I currently patronize is close to home and the stylist does my hair okay at a good price. Is it fancy? No but it serves me well. You have to first think of what type of salon you want to start. What kind of clientele do you want to attract? (The sort that would cough up more than I would or the regular folks or even students).
Start by making a list of what you need which will include:
A business plan:
If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Sorry for the cliché but it is true. A business plan helps you know the pitfalls of the business before you begin. It also helps you know how much capital you have to invest.
A unique selling proposition:
What will set your salon apart from the stylists in Mushin and under bridge Ikeja? It could be customer service.
Salon equipment:
You need to invest in a standard generator, hair curlers, flat irons, hair products. You can add spa equipment to have additional services available for your customers.
Hired staff:
The idea my friend and I had was to run the business sort of in partnership with the stylists. This idea could work for you. You could simply rent out chairs in your salon and collect monthly rent from the stylist and even nail technicians. This way they are under more pressure because they would need to make extra for themselves after paying you rent. Imagine you had 5 spaces for rent at N30,000 per month that’s pretty decent. Though you would have to pay electricity and utility bills.
A location:
Do you know you can run a salon from your home if you can’t afford to rent a shop? Or offer home service if you have hair and beauty skills. You could even start making wigs and hair products to sell
No idea works except you work at it. Clients will not magically appear; you should market it to your target audience every way you can. Social media is the way to go especially these days. Push your idea, make it work.
Remember me in your kingdom.
 

What is Ankara?
What is Ankara Fabric?
Isn’t it the capital of Turkey?
It is the capital of Turkey and it is also the name of a popular fabric worn by many of us.
Ankara was formerly known as Dutch wax print. It was originally manufactured by the Dutch for the Indonesian textile market. But, by mistake or design, these prints garnered significantly more interest in West African than in Indonesia. Recognizing this opportunity, the Dutch decided to focus on West Africa. As such, the prints changed to reflect African culture and lifestyle more. African print was henceforth born. As you might suspect, this is the condensed gist of the issue. 
Ankara Fabric

The long and short though is the universal acceptance of these prints in the West African market specifically. Ankara is one of the cheapest traditional fabrics (made even cheaper when Chinese manufacturing of the fabric became widespread). If you notice, other African fabrics like Aso Oke are reserved for special occasions, but Ankara is used for everyday wear.

Ankara can be used to make a fashion statement for yourself ranging from Ankara Tops to Ankara pants, even to the Ankara accessories like bags and shoes etc.
Recently , this West African Trend has become more popular on runways and even international stars such as on the runway and has been embraced by some of our fav celebs and fashion pioneers including Elle Varner, Beyonce, Solange, Gwen Stefani, Rihanna, Anna Wintour, Michelle O, and the Kardashians to name a few.
Just when you think the Ankara trend is dying. It resurrects with even chicer fabric patterns and colours. Have you been to a textile shop recently?
I was strolling through the gram (Instagram) and I found some really gorgeous pieces.

 
Be adventurous with your Ankara. Let’s see your styles.