olamide olarewaju

Banana peel comes with loads of nutrients and carbohydrate that helps the skin against wrinkles, fines lines and a lot of skin blemishes.

<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/pulse-beauty-review-face-sheet-to-get-rid-of-tired-eyes-try-purederm-age-defying-eye-gel-mask-id6612970.html">Facial wrinkles</a> occur at a point in people's lives when the skin loses elasticity, becoming noticeably loose, droops and loses its firmness!

ALSO READ: <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/pulse-beauty-review-i-tried-an-electric-facial-cleanser-for-the-first-time-id7270088.html">I tried an electric facial cleanser for the first time!</a>

Though sometimes, skin aging and wrinkles could happen naturally, they also arise as a result of lifestyle habits like smoking, it's never pleasant and while there are a lot of over the counter creams and beauty procedures to tackle this, a natural <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/skincare-diy-how-to-get-naturally-brighter-lighter-skin-in-5-easy-steps-id4453303.html">home remedy</a> without side effects is always a great idea.

Simple home remedies with natural ingredients are always healthy options to use for the skin as they are natural/organic and there are usually never adverse reactions.

ALSO READ: <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/beauty-tip-of-the-week-tired-of-dull-skin-this-is-how-to-brighten-it-without-side-effects-id7551934.html">Tired of dull skin? This is how to brighten it without side effects</a>

Banana peel is easy to use to get rid of acne and its scars leaving the skin clear and blemish free and it's done in very easy steps.

Note: Only use fresh banana peels

ALSO READ: <a href="about:blank">HOW TO KEEP YOUR BANANAS</a>

Banana and its peel ring in amazing beauty benefits for the skin, here's how to use it...

Want to stop wrinkles, skin aging? Try banana peel

If you want clear, glowing and baby soft face, there are things you should stop doing and they are infact simple!

From not removing makeup well, <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/beauty-tip-of-the-day-step-by-step-guide-for-washing-the-face-correctly-id5329851.html" id="422dec56-5980-52eb-8072-782c1bcfcd33">washing the face</a> properly and restoring i.e using products to moisturize and lock in moisture and so on can cause issues for the skin, ignoring these seemingly easy things can cause the skin to breakout.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/beauty-tip-of-the-day-7-face-washing-mistakes-ruining-your-skin-id6829330.html" id="cb7f023f-8def-5dd9-b4e8-66387af5a3a4">7 face washing mistakes ruining your skin</a>

<a href="internal:/article/7607714" id="23ff09cb-7e7b-580f-96ec-3a97556aad43">[No available link text]</a>

The skin is always prone to breakouts especially when it's exposed to oil, dust grimes that block the pores and disrupts the skin's PH. There are factors that happen as part of 'normal' everyday living that end up leaving the skin with blemishes.

1. Dirty pillow cases

This is one of the major causes of breakouts. Sleeping on dirty pillow cases are the fastest way to transfer germs to the face which results in pimple and acne breakouts.

Make sure to change pillow cases at least twice weekly.

2. Sleeping with makeup on

Sleeping with makeup on should be avoided at all costs. After a day of wearing a full face of makeup, start by removing makeup with wipes then proceed to cleanse and wash then apply toner.

Ensure you have a <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/beauty-tip-of-the-day-4-signs-its-time-to-see-a-dermatologist-id7149549.html" id="f497687d-8100-5068-afd5-a51e5725a8db">skincare</a> routine for day and night to keep the facial skin in top health.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/beauty-tip-of-the-day-3-tried-tested-makeup-products-you-can-substitute-for-another-id6797674.html" id="319ce473-0aab-5c46-a8db-0dc9781984fe">3 tried &amp; tested makeup products you can substitute for another!</a>

<a href="internal:/article/7607763" id="3541a6af-6dfb-5c4f-8d69-78363ef4eeff">[No available link text]</a>

3. Using too much products together

Stop trying out every products thrown your way. A lot of people test different products all at once. Find out what product works for for your skin type and tone and use just that. It's best to keep product use to the minimum as long as they work.

4. Not sticking to a routine

Not maintaining a routine is one reason the facial skin gets blemished. Adopt a skincare routine (day and night) that works for you and stick to it.

5. Touching your face

By all means don't touch your face to feel it or to pop pimples, even before applying any form of treatment, make sure the hands are clean.

Notice your facial skin isn't glowing or as soft as you would want? You are probably not treating it right?

Stop doing these things to your face!

Having unprotected sex isn't the only way STDs are contracted. Sexually Transmitted Diseases are bacteria as well as viruses meaning they can thrive almost anywhere.

Repeatedly sharing moist towels is a fast way to contract STDs, because the viruses/bacteria thrive on them, they live longer on moist towels so warm or wet towels are no nos. Using moist towels has been associated to one of the most common STDs; Trichomoniasis which comes in form of a funny smelling vagina discharge.

Stay safe and don't ever share towels.

2. Lipsticks, Lipbalm

Sharing lipsticks and lipbalms is another way to get STDs. It's not advisable or hygienic to share lipwears especially if the tube has to be pressed against the lips, in such cases a q-tip or lip brush should be used (even this doesn't protect against STDs).

The tendency of someone with a cold sore or mouth thrush using it places the next person who does too at risk.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel-arts-culture/top-7-foods-that-fight-stds-id7507384.html" id="8c65a27c-739d-565e-9493-0fdd27f06a08">Top 7 foods that fight STDs</a>

3. Sharp objects (blades)

Sharing sharp objects is a common way STDs are transferred from a person to the other. Sharing blades, scissors have been linked to HIV.

Kissing is another way STDs are transferred because body fluid are usually exchanged in this act of intimacy. (One person can transfer oral thrush for instance to the other and this could be incubate STDs)

5. Keeping Beards

Studies show a lot of men who keep beards are prone to STDs as the area create a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

Beards have features of pubic hair.

Sharing the toilet is also a way to contract STD.

Did you know you could get Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) without having sex?

Unusual ways you get them without having sex

A seamless foundation application should be crease free, not settle into fine lines or be patchy or flaky and most importantly should feel and look like your skin- you shouldn't be able to tell the difference between your complexion and your foundation- it should fit picture perfectly.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/pulse-beauty-review-why-maybelline-fit-me-matte-poreless-foundation-is-a-must-have-id5458674.html" id="14610c4e-cd68-594f-baf6-d2d5064c553e">Why Maybelline Fit Me Matte+ Poreless foundation is a must have</a>

To achieve seamless foundation coverage, there are easy tips to be followed through to make sure the rest of the makeup go on perfectly as well.

Hate cakey, uneven, flaw defining foundation application? Yes us too! Here are ways to make sure your foundation game stays tight.

5 foundation rules to follow if you want perfect coverage

Created originally as batik knockoffs for Indonesians, West Africa adopted the print that's now widely claimed as African! It was intentionally made for the Indonesian market by the Dutch but embraced by West Africa, Ankara became the African claim to fashion fame because of the burst of vibrant prints it features.

Ankara is a rich versatile print that has been creatively worked on over the years. There's no mistaking the fact that this print trend has travelled far and wide. It has become a style item and one that has inspired/ influenced designs from Stella Jean, Duro Olowu and locally Lisa Folawiyo.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/fashion/african-fashion-style-the-latest-ankara-designs-id4775244.html" id="9df3994a-e515-5a31-8153-cd0a2b025f5c">7 reasons the ‘Ankara’ has become a global fashion piece</a>

The colourful print that has formed inspiration for major fashion brands all over the world is a beauty no doubt.

Known in different names including ‘Dutch wax’ in Ghana, ‘Kanga prints’ in Tanzania and other East African countries as Ikat, Batik, mud cloth and so on, the print is inarguably a global phenomenon!

The now famous print became accepted in West Africa because of its bold colours, stand out prints and bold tribal tendencies that are usually presented in twelve (12) or half six (6) yards.

Because it comes in 100% cotton (most of the time), it's versatile enough to be crafted into any style; traditional or modern so much that it's easily the most used fabric for any design; dresses, skirts, capes,accessories become unique when done in part or as a whole in Ankara and they are accepted all over the world.

The Ankara's versatility, richness in colour, durability, uniqueness and timeless appeal makes it one 'trend' that will transcend centuries and continue catching on globally.

Ankara has been exported all around the world, Stella Jean's designs are largely influenced by the trend, Duro Olowu also uses the versatile print in his works and back in Nigeria the likes of Lisa Folawiyo, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi have made African print a huge part of their designs. Stella McCartney faced a backlash just recently after she laced her <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/fashion/ankara-prints-seen-on-stella-mccartneys-ss18-collection-id7419114.html" id="a98b972e-de03-594e-a2d9-f2ba0a3a96a2">SS18 collection</a> with five solid print designs inspired by this gorgeous print.

The Ankara has no doubt found a home in Africa but for it being claimed strictly as an African invention, errr not really!

The iconic Ankara fabric is usually claimed as an African invention but errr not really!

Did you know this print fabric wasn't originally African?

<h1>Dehydration and lack of giving proper attention to the</h1>

If you want baby soft, smooth lips for lipwears to glide on then you've got to keep your pout in the best shape- you should tend to it the way you do the facial skin and rest of the skin- Yes! you should pay attention to your lips by exfoliating.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/microblading-would-you-honestly-spend-n150k-on-this-beauty-trend-id7377888.html" id="375750fc-abc6-5d8e-ab03-48dc54361439">Would you (honestly) spend N150k on Microblading?</a>

Exfoliating the lips often ease dryness caused by harsh products, removes dead skin on the surface to reveal visibly smoother, cleaner, softer and fresher lips.

Infact, a quick way to tend to it daily is to use your damp brush on both lips after brushing your teeth to get rid of dead skin on the surface to reveal a new one. If this is done daily, you have a higher chance of having soft, kissable lips as against allowing dead skin pile on the lips making them darker, drier and cracks when you wear lipsticks (it's worse when you use matte lipsticks).

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/beauty-tip-of-the-day-how-to-use-lemon-sugar-to-tackle-dark-lips-id6017096.html" id="c2def3d7-0026-5305-9bdc-13b1ee581c76">How to use lemon, sugar to tackle dark lips</a>

One quick D.I.Y works perfectly to leave the lips smoother, finer and softer

<ul><li>1 tablespoon raw honey</li><li>1 tablespoon sugar</li><li>Few drops of fresh lemon juice</li></ul>

1. Mix all the above together in a clean bowl

2. Massage this all over lips for about a minute using clean fingers or toothbrush (using the bristles to pick)

3. Wipe this clean with a clean damp face cloth

4. Apply a moisturizing lip balm to lock in moisture

You can do this as often as necessary for visibly softer and smoother lips.

If you want baby soft, smooth lips for lipwears to glide on then you've got to keep them in the best shape!

1 natural way to keep the lips baby soft

Jeans have become wardrobe staples that never go out of season and they can fire up any look stylish, casual, laidback and in control as long as they are styled to complement the rest of the pieces paired with it.

Jeans are commonly owned as bottoms but it doesn't hurt to own a statement denim shirt (oversized makes more statement if you dare rock) as well (denim on denim rocks still), in a crazy skirt, dungaree, shorts and the list goes on. It's a signature style piece.

Though not trendy, jeans are more seen as timeless as they have been seamlessly transformed year in and out/for centuries to suit the existing style trend at any time. It's easiest one piece that almost everyone around the world own in common (no?)!

The greatest thing about owning a (at least a) pair of denim is the versatility as it can dressed up or down and works with almost any look one sets to achieve; it's about the most versatile piece of clothing anyone could own.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/fashion/nigerian-designers-do-runway-shows-really-help-fashion-brands-id7352361.html" id="24045530-b82e-568d-b248-be5eddc022f9">Do runway shows really help fashion brands?</a>

Casual chic, cool, laidback, sporty, work smart and so on are some of the themed styles a piece of denim can be done in and thinking of firing up your denim get up? Pair them this ways:

1. Denim over denim

Wear your jeans as a matching set; sport a jeans shirt/top over jeans bottoms like trousers, skirts, shorts. Go for contrasting washes that work against your skintone and shows off your personal style.

2. Jeans styled with bodysuit

Pair your slimfit jeans for instance with a sleek bodysuit as top. This helps smoothen out folds and gives an illusion of a well defined shape.

3. Good old t-shirt over denim

Pair your jeans in any style with a fitting graphic t-shirt that mimics your personal style for a casual/laidback fit.

4. Jeans paired with kimono

Throw on a kimono over your top paired over jeans, denim over denim for a chic yet effortless look.

5. Jeans paired with crop top

If you're confident in your skin, pair your jeans with a crop top to show off your toned midriff and perfect shape.

Who says styling jeans should be basic or boring? Fire up your denim in whatever style in these 5 ways...

5 playful yet chic ways to fire up your jeans

The celebrities chose the looks from the top South Africa based designer owning the looks in different styles to suit their personalties and occasion.

Stephanie Coker chose the Gert-Johan Coetzee's frilly silver dress paired with pink ankle cuff sandals complete with a glowing makeup look and pink lips for The Voice Nigeria 2017.

She also chose a custom white pant suit from the same designer with plunging neckline, power embellished shoulders complete with intricate gold detailing.

Tiwa Savage opted for a blush ball gown from the South African designer for her South Africa Idol performance. The piece came complete with delicate appliqué and beautiful tulle overlay with pink shoes. She chose the look with ombre curly centre part hair complete with a bronzy makeup look.

Who rocked their Gert-Johan Coetzee look better ? Who is the perfect muse; Tiwa Savage or Stephanie Coker?

Tiwa Savage and Stephanie Coker both rocked Gert-Johan Coetzee's pieces recently looking all stunning but who nailed theirs best?

Who rocked their Gert-Johan Coetzee look better?

The emerging Nigeria based fashion brand presents colourful prints on alluring styles showing off the female body. Taking inspiration from fairy tales, romance, femininity the collection presents the collection as one confident in her skin.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/fashion/osuare-womenswear-brand-brings-vibrant-handpainted-signature-to-dakar-fashion-week-2017-id7268545.html" id="37d655da-2957-55d4-9f88-78765fad079d">Osuare brings vibrant, handpainted signature to Dakar Fashion Week 2017</a>

Floor length halter dresses, jumpsuit with flared bottoms featuring a bubbly print and sequin mix, bardot dress with sheer embellished ball bottom. halter babydoll, dresses with bell sleeves, playsuits, kimono paired with matching sets and more were featured in the collection.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/fashion/fashpa-womenswear-brand-pays-homage-to-african-women-with-ijoya-capsule-collection-id7263090.html" id="143dc09f-dd91-520b-b787-ad0965463301">Fashpa pays homage to African women with 'Ijoya' Capsule Collection</a>

"Needlethread Stitches unveils the 'Allure Collection' for the modern, elegant and confident women" a rep for the brand shares. "The collection focuses on the alluring features of the feminine body, inspired by fairy tales, romance and feminine beauty with an African feel in it".

Photography: @stylesquadng for @studio24nigeria

Model: @nancy_keshy

Hair: @black_wraponzel

Creative Director: @needlethread__

Needlethread Stitches highlights print, bold hues and sheer details for new collection; 'Allure'.

Womenswear brand plays on prints, bold hues for 'Allure' Collection

Split ends are caused by a lot of 'carefree' habits including not trimming the hair in a long time, harsh towel drying, continuous use of hot styling tools, bleaching/colouring, regular blow dry, using sub standard hair products and so on.

With split ends, it's best to get expert attention and improve lifestyle habits by drinking enough water, bet regular trims, use products that work and try out home remedies that work! A tried and tested one is using good old beer! Studies reveal beer help control split ends.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/beauty-tip-of-the-day-5-great-facial-cleansers-gentle-enough-for-everyday-use-id7180862.html" id="bc301ff8-dfff-555e-a490-71d1cb8981fa">5 great facial cleansers gentle enough for everyday use</a>

To use beer on hair, get it flat. Leave the beer bottle/can open for a few hours or simply turn it into a bowl and warm in a microwave!

Here's how to use beer for split ends

Split ends are caused by a lot of 'carefree' habits including not trimming the hair in a long time but beer works for it!

How to use beer for split ends

The eyebrow trend features the eyebrow 'neatened' but it's defined in a 'squiggly', kinda wavy way!

The brows are drawn/fill in as you would the normal brows only that instead of drawing/filling along the natural line/arch, they are done wavy (super weird if you ask me).  It starts with the natural line and then goes high, then dips a bit, then goes a bit higher again and it goes on till the end of the arch over the brow bone.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/beauty/beauty-tip-of-the-day-5-great-facial-cleansers-gentle-enough-for-everyday-use-id7180862.html" id="a783971d-e35e-5c68-a9ba-6c1fba6d9044">5 great facial cleansers gentle enough for everyday use</a>

Also dubbed the finger wave brow trend, this look has already generated a lot of buzz and reaction online popping up on Instagram feeds at every opportunity but with <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/beauty/throwbackthursday-remember-when-island-beauty-lipsticks-powders-were-the-rave-id7199581.html" id="423c0199-c680-5925-a8cc-595282ba70db">beauty</a> trends, you'd never know!

Would you try out the 'wavy eyebrow' trend or nah?

Would you try the trending Wave Brow look? Get in here makeup enthusiasts....

This eyebrow trend is getting all the rave, would you try?

Latest Kenyan Beauty and Health News & Trends

Beauty & Health

Just like ensuring a great sense of hygiene with overall health, cleaning makeup brushes should be a habit if you intend to keep skin infections, breakouts, acne, eczema and so on at bay. It also helps to make them last longer.

Makeup brushes should be cleaned often as leaving them riddled with dirts can cause blemishes and even more serious breakouts on the skin as dirty makeup brushes are breeding places for bacteria.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/beauty/beauty-video-cheap-effective-way-to-get-makeup-brushes-squeaky-clean-must-watch-id4622707.html" id="9114d977-6df8-500b-a56e-5b09ea9c8a4f">Cheap, effective way to get makeup brushes squeaky clean</a>

Cleaning your makeup brushes (see how to here) should however be done carefully, avoiding these listed things:

1. Never soak your brushes in water. Instead run them under lukewarm water to get out the dirt and grimes from foundation, powder, eyeshadow etc

2. Never use harsh detergent to clean instead opt for mild shampoo to lather up to wash brushes. Gently rub on the wash till it lathers, do this continuously till the lather comes off clean and clear that's how you know it's clean.

3. Be gentle with the bristles. Don't wash like you're washing a tee-shirt for instance, you have to be careful with the bristles so they don't come off loose or alter the shape of the brush afterwards rinse them inside and out/thoroughly.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/beauty/makeup-tutorial-heres-how-to-clean-your-makeup-brushes-with-shampoo-id4390029.html" id="28514e07-4f2c-5a2b-812b-0fa1b43c4d24">Here's how to clean your makeup brushes with shampoo</a>

4. Don't wring the bristles to get water out, blot them using a clean towel or face cloth by laying them flat for a while then flip them over after to get both sides dry.

5. Make sure not to get water in between the end of the brush and the handle so it doesn't become weak/fall off or get ruined.

Cleaning your makeup brushes which should be often should be done carefully, avoiding these things...

5 things NEVER to do when cleaning makeup brushes

The cover story tagged 'America’s New First Lady' sees the reality star posing gracefully in polished designer looks; think big hair, dark suits, pearls and graceful postures as the cover star with daughter in tow.

The cover story (already stirring controversy on social media because of the title) shows a never before seen modest Kim Kardashian who spots the grown-up looks including a neck high piece complete with gloves and a vintage purse with big hair sitting prim with North West in a dress for the regal cover shot.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/beauty/kim-kardashian-reality-star-set-to-launch-beauty-brand-id6835378.html" id="940bacdb-8365-5b6a-ae2b-ef66c40dc316"> </a>

She does a lot more grey suits, black dresses with pearl neckpieces, a cocktail complete with fur stole and more demure looks ditching her sexy looks for 1960's ones.

Channelling Jackie Kennedy's style ditching her signature bombshell blonde locks and barely there looks,Kim Kardashian does polished, grown up look with North West for Interview Mag.

Reality star channels '60s Jackie Kennedy style for Interview Magazine

Known for their countless celebrity partnerships, a  recent study by Corra (carried out on 1,000 women on their product habits to understand brand attachments and what inspires a cosmetic switch) revealed MAC Makeup as the fourth preferred millennial beauty brand with CoverGirl toping the loyalty list for all generations with the brand's bronzer as the most used.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/beauty/throwbackthursday-remember-when-island-beauty-lipsticks-powders-were-the-rave-id7199581.html" id="8b454371-5f69-53ca-9562-7b9df47e2f96">Remember when Island Beauty lipsticks &amp; powders were the rave?</a>

The results from the survey takes a detour from widely assumed buying decisions/influence as women stood by the brand they trust and not necessarily through random influence.

Surprisingly, the study revealed 1 out of 5 women have not switched up their makeup routine in over year making brand loyalty and the possibility of using a brand for years on end a common feature amongst most women.

Other surprising results from the study includes a whooping 40% shopped their makeup products from departmental stores and a lot didn't test out new products frequently.

The top reasons for brand loyalty in women were presented as quality of products by a whooping 38.1%, continuous use/women tend to buy products they've used for a long time and those that are of good value.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/beauty/pulse-beauty-review-switch-cosmetics-foundation-is-all-you-need-for-long-lasting-flawless-finish-id6861051.html" id="7415960b-486f-5455-89f6-820485c8ab24">Switch Cosmetics' foundation is ALL you need for long lasting flawless finish</a>

Shockingly, the least important element influencing women's purchase decision were cruelty-free labels! While the top reasons for switching beauty brands include discovering a product of better quality and discovering a product of better or same quality at a lower cost.

The survey were carried out broadly on three generations; Baby boomers, Generation X and Millennials!

Amongst millennial, top beauty brands were:

See the complete survey via http://corra.com/beauty-product-loyalty/

CoverGirl tops at number 1 makeup brand amongst millennials

A recent beauty survey defies common beliefs, putting CoverGirl, Maybelline, Neutrogena and MAC as the top preferred brands &amp; even more surprising results.

Makeup brand ranks 4th for top millennial brands, CoverGirl is no 1!

What was the first 'designer piece' you bought with your money and how did it feel? How did you break your designer virginity?

<h1>I remember mine too well, it was a classic</h1>

Now that the working class can burst out a new pair of Christian Louboutin heels or a Les Petits Joueurs handbag without breaking a sweat, let's talk luxury or better still reminisce over 'indulging' in the finer things of life (team sometimes 'Yes' to vanity).

The first designer (by that I mean 'luxury' back then) piece I bought with my money (not the ones mum, dad or aunts or uncles bought when they travelled and certainly not all those gifts you got or grew into) was this dear sunglasses of mine by Vivienne Westwood!

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/fashion/lookbook-5-things-nigerian-designers-are-getting-wrong-in-their-presentation-pt-1-id5798475.html" id="796250e7-2f16-5261-9235-82b654554591">5 things Nigerian designers are getting wrong in their presentation [Pt. 1]</a>

I bought it like a million years ago (can't remember how long ago I bought it but it's nothing less than 8 or 10 years and I still have it!) It was about N40,000 or so then! It was love at first sight.

I remember going into a cousin's boutique then after she just got back from a trip abroad to stock her store and I laid eyes on those beauties and I just couldn't let go- you know how they say if you see something nice/you like, buy it? I did.

I was first attracted to the 'sturdy' yet kinda 'sensually strong' (if there's any word like that) casing slightly opened with the beauty that's the gold mix frame beckoning to me.

I have to confess I had a flair for 'collecting' (from mum and aunties of course) nice designer sunglasses back then- my Senior Secondary school days.

My very first designer pair was a Police sunglasses; an extremely nice one but I got that as a gift from mum not bought with my money so this 'Viv Westwood sunnies' (what I christened it) came really special to me.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/fashion/mode-de-vie-with-olamide-5-things-nigerian-designers-are-getting-wrong-in-their-presentation-pt-2-id6123033.html" id="cc3676e7-42de-5477-b0c5-1c927264a33f">5 things Nigerian designers are getting wrong in their presentation [Pt. 2]</a>

I had little money because I always saved to buy fashion items really (my mum largely influenced this, she could shop or clothes and boy did she do for me! I had 'clothessss' but for this one I knew I had to get this myself). I finally paid twice.

Buying luxury pieces is most times an investment especially with timeless pieces. The great thing about investing in quality pieces is how you can pass them down after using them after years and years and they still retain every bit of quality they came with.

Just like a classic Chanel bag for instance that appreciates, those are passed down to generations and tend to appreciate over time. Even when you decide to resell, you can make so much more than you got it!

It's a smart decision to invest in anything of great quality, not for show off but as something tangible to pass down or even a life saver when you need a lot of money!

Though in recent times I've loved Nigerian brands more but I definitely will be over the moon when I pay for those Vintage Chanel double flap bag (specifically Black Alligator 2.55 *inserts swoon emoji*).

What was your experience like after paying for your first ever designer piece?

The Vivienne Westwood Sunglasses' are expectedly 'old'

What was the first 'designer piece' you bought with your money and how did it feel? I'm telling all about my Vivienne Westwood sunnies.

How did you break your 'designer virginity'?

This popular print (Ankara) is one of the most versatile prints used all over the world right now and it's hot no doubt but there are others that are patiently waiting unexplored and what's wrong in tapping into that?

Ankara has been used so much it has to get a break! It's become a fad that's getting/got out of hand. From chic designs to basic ones, to bags, shoes, jewelry, Ankara is slowly being (has been) abused and for a fabric that has gone global and influenced major brands that's unimpressive.

The way this otherwise beautiful and versatile fabric has been 'abused' everywhere around is a representation of how lazy an average fashion creative has gotten.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/bi/lifestyle/ankara-why-the-african-print-remains-the-coolest-id6204396.html" id="bc8601d5-2929-565c-b9b8-7598374cd46d">Why the African print remains the coolest</a>

Intentionally made for the Indonesian market by the Dutch but embraced by West Africa, Ankara became the African claim to fashion fame because of the burst of vibrant prints it features.

Ankara is a rich versatile print that has been creatively worked on over the years. There's no mistaking the fact that this print trend has travelled far and wide. It has become a style item and one that has inspired/ influenced designs from Stella Jean, Duro Olowu but the print needs a break (or at best left in the hands of those who craft pieces off it to perfection).

What <a href="" id="b2543722-9ddf-5466-811a-eb7a690697f0">Lisa Folawiyo</a> does with Ankara- embellishing print pieces has gained popularity and has adorned the bodies of popular celebrities all over the world but there's more to telling the African style story apart from using Ankara.

The <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/fashion/lookbook-house-of-deola-releases-absolutely-breathtaking-pieces-for-komole-kandids-series-1-id4718669.html" id="1dcc8ff9-27e7-5a75-9aff-b99bda58304e">Aso-Oke</a>s, Adire, and more creative prints and traditional textiles telling rich African stories are yet to be richly explored- this is not to say The Lisa Folawiyos, Stella Jean, Asiyami Gold, Tina Lonbodi, Demestik by Reuben Reuel and more are doing badly with this fabric.

Maki Oh also does amazing work with 'Adire' crafted into contemporary designs that have been seen on Solange Knowles, Beyonce, Michelle Obama to name a few.

ALSO READ:<a href="http://www.pulse.ng/fashion/african-fashion-style-the-latest-ankara-designs-id4775244.html" id="db23815c-d98b-5fcf-8ef1-b31172bc4873">7 reasons the ‘Ankara’ has become a global fashion piece</a>

Orange Culture also employs tie and dye on designs that have paraded major runways all over the world and emerging brand Ladunni Lambo is definitely on to something infusing Aso Oke in the most creative way one stylish look at a time.

This iconic fabric (no doubt) created as batik knockoffs for Indonesians will continue to catch on globally but for right now can it just be left to rest?

Can designers get creative with other fabrics that can tell the 'African Story' and maybe create their designs on any fabric while at it? That's telling the African Story creatively.

Model in a piece by Demestik By Reuben Reuel