Fashion: Aleem Yusuf

OBSESSION Designer Aleem Yusuf is giving other designers a run for their money. From evening gowns to wedding dresses, he is designing couture apparel fit for the fairest of the fair. Since he was nine years old, Yusuf has found burning inspiration in his natural surroundings and scenery, which is evident in his bold, detailed designs. Different experiences, textures, visions or conversations translate into creative, emotional responses for Yusuf, resulting into the next piece or collection of intricate wearable art. These ordeals are then showcased in a variety of eye-catching collections featuring madeto-measure, daintily feathered and uniquely sequined clothing that make the Aleem Yusuf Couture brand one that gives clients a “very personalized” and memorable experience.

One of Yusuf’s newest projects, the “Obsession” collection, is just another example of the designer’s eccentric style and creativity. As a way of paying homage to Melbourne black — a beautiful color worn by Melburnians in all seasons—through “Obsession”, the Australian designer has incorporated the deep, warm color into the collection to serve as a welcoming introduction to the many more bold fashion statements that the exquisite collection has to offer. Layered with love, individuality and beauty, “Obsession” is sort of like a rose, as it gives women the strength that they need to showcase their daring beauty, but also the delicacy to acknowledge the compassion that lies within themselves as well. ALEEM YUSUF'S

Expert Dating Tips FOR THE MODERN, SINGLE WOMAN

BY AVANTI TOLBERT H ave you ever done something really risky and complicated? Something that you had to put a lot of thought into, work up the courage to even make an attempt to do, and then hope and pray that all of your hard work wasn’t for nothing — even though sometimes it has been? Well, if you’re a part of the dating world, chances are that you probably have.

Way back when — before nearly all of civilization became roped into technological advances and popular trends — dating was fairly simple. Two people who enjoyed time spent with one other would come together over a period of time for romantic outings, deep conversations and special events until they were ready to take things to the next level and tie the knot. Nowadays, dating has become an entire operation that requires far more attention, knowledge, time and motivation in order to pull off. The world is constantly introducing new trends and tricks into new-aged dating that are almost impossible to keep up with, which can make dating in the present day quite a real struggle.

Recently, we sat down with dating expert and VP of dating.com Maria Sullivan for a Q&A about current dating trends and what they mean for women who are (or are planning to be) a part of this fast-paced dating world. Here’s what she had to say:

Q: What are your best dating tips for today’s modern, single woman in 2020?

A: Keep an open mind. People tend to stick to their specific “type” of preferred looks or style when it comes to dating. By opening up your mind and grabbing dinner or engaging in a conversation with someone who you might not often gravitate to, there is a chance that you find that you connect with that person or are attracted to what their personality has to offer. Don’t dwell on the past. It is hard to put yourself out there and open up to finding a new partner when you have been hurt in the past, but there are so many new opportunities and connections waiting for you in the future that you have to look forward to.

Lastly, be yourself. I know this is a common saying, but it is so important. Don’t try to hide who you are or be embarrassed about the things you like. Showing who you really are to potential partners will give you a better idea on if a relationship can grow.

Q: Have you noticed any new recent trends when it comes to women in dating?

A: A recent trend is flea bagging. Flea bagging is when a woman continually dates people that aren’t right for her. Some women believe that they just need to settle if they don’t want to end up alone and end up dating people that they are aren’t compatible with.

Another recent trend is “glamboozling,” which is when a woman gets ready for a date i.e. puts on makeup, does her + HER HEART

Q: How can a woman feel empowered to make the first move?

A: Many women don’t like to make the first move because they are afraid of rejection. I am a big advocate for women making the first move. If you get rejected, that is ok because that person probably wasn’t your soulmate anyway. To help women feel empowered to make the first move I think it is important to remember how many options you have. The person you are interested in talking to you might even find you more attractive for approaching them first. When making the first move, you don’t have anything to lose, but you might have a ton to gain.

Q: How has the dating world changed for the better and/or the worst in recent years?

A: Today’s dating culture is tough. One change in the dating scene is that a lot of people are looking for casual hook ups rather than long lasting relationships. This poses as a problem to the population of singles that are actually looking for something serious. Additionally, popular dating trends like “ghosting” catch people off guard and leave them wondering what went wrong in the short-lived relationship, ultimately lowering their confidence.

Q: What are some current dating red flags to look out for?

A: One major red flag is when the person you are dating is constantly on their phone when you are together but takes a while to respond to messages or doesn’t answer your phone call when you’re apart. It wouldn’t be an issue if they don’t respond to you normally, but the fact that they are always on their phone when you are together is a sign that they might be ignoring you or just aren’t that into you.

Another red flag is that the person you are dating starts to become very jealous or protective. When dating, you should feel like you can do whatever you want whenever you want, without the other person dictating your every move. If the person you are dating wants to know where you are at all times, doesn’t like you wearing a certain outfit or doesn’t allow you to hang out with your friends, then it might be time to move on. As the relationship progresses so will their overbearing power.