Allure 31012016 by Vanguard Media Limited

January 31, 2016

n o i h s a F e Th Edition

TOP 2015 Red Carpet

FINALISTS

UCHE NNAJI

- On The Business Of Fashion

31/01 Contents

e m a i l : a l l u r e fo r t h e wo rl d @ v a n g u a r d n g r. c o m

FASHION 4

Top Ten 2015 Red Carpet Finalists

Styling Some 2016 Trends

PEOPLE 15

• Cointreau-Fizz Sundaze cocktail party holds. • The Vonne Flagship Store Debut

Editor’s Note Uche Nnaji is the brain behind Ouch, a high profile fashion outlet that stocks its own brand. He is one entrepreneur who cashed in early on the business of fashion. Today, he owns several outlets all over Nigeria. He heralds our first fashion edition in 2016. Read the business plan that earned him success on pp. 8 & 9. We have our ten best dressed, nominated by you, our esteemed readers. If you recall, we published pictures of 20 celebrities whose red carpet looks were too hot to handle. We asked for your votes to select ‘the top ten’. See the Top Ten as nominated by you on pp. 4 & 5. Congratulations to our 10 best dressed celebs voted for by Allure readers! On our fashion pages, Jemi Ekunkunbo shows ‘How to Style two 2016 Trends’ - The pajamas and Floral. Today is the last Sunday in January! How time passes. So quickly time flies that it seems like only a breath ago did we say happy New Year! In another couple of weeks, we would be celebrating Lovers’ Day - another time, another celebration, another month in 2016. Enjoy our read. Have a great week!

CHIBOK GIRLS: 500 days and counting.

Remmy Diagbare @ Vanguardallure1

COVER STORY Uche Nnaji

Quotes... “It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness”.

- Charles Spurgeon

“Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light”.

- Helen Keller

“If you are the kind of person who is waiting for the ‘right’ thing to happen, you might wait for a long time. It’s like waiting for all the traffic lights to be green for five miles before starting the trip”. - Robert Kiyosaki

TEAM JEMI EKUNKUNBOR

lookposh@yahoo.co.uk

PAMELA ECHEMUNOR

pamela.echemunor @gmail.com

YEMISI SULEIMAN

suleimanyemisi@gmail.com

FATIMA GARBA

fatigarba36@yahoo.com

EDITOR REMMY DIAGBARE DEPUTY EDITOR JEMI EKUNKUNBOR ASST. EDITOR YEMISI SULEIMAN STYLE REPORTER PAMELA ECHEMUNOR CONTRIBUTORS PRINCESS KATE EMIKO BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JEROME CODJO-YAOVI ONIPEDE

CONT. EDITOR LATASHA NGWUBE COPY EDITOR DODOIYI WILLIAM-WEST CORRESPONDENTS FATIMA GARBA DAVINA AYODELE LAYOUT / DESIGN GREGORY OBI OLAYIWOLA AJAGBE PHOTO OSCAR OCHIOGU (08034746487)

Printed and published by Vanguard Media Ltd Vanguard Avenue Kirikiri Canal; P.M.B 1007 Apapa, Lagos. For advertisement / enquiries, call DEBBIE: 08039675880, Office Auxiliary: EBERE OKOH

10 2015 RED CARPET FA S H I O N

TOP

FASH IO N

FINALISTS

By - Pamela Echemunor The votes of the Top Ten 2015 Red Carpet glam queens are in. Out of the 20 glamourous ladies who illuminated the red carpet last year, only ten have emerged victorious. Among them are former beauty queen, Omowunmi Akinnifesi and property developer, Eunice Efole, past winners of Allure Style Icon Awards. Here are your favourite top ten finalists based on your votes.

seyi shay

eunice efole

fade ogunro

omowunmi akinnifesi

Bolanle Olukanni

toke makinwa

/ January 31, 2016

eku edewor

genevieve nnaji

zainab balogun

betty irabor

January 31, 2016 /

10 2015 RED CARPET FA S H I O N

TOP

FASH IO N

FINALISTS

seyi shay

eunice efole

fade ogunro

omowunmi akinnifesi

Bolanle Olukanni

toke makinwa

/ January 31, 2016

eku edewor

genevieve nnaji

zainab balogun

betty irabor

January 31, 2016 /

FA S H I O N

FASH IO N

STYLING SOME

2016TRENDS

The pajamaS trend T

By - Jemi Ekunkunbor

he pajama look is back but this time it’s the two piece set. Popular with celebrities, the pajamas is no longer confined to the bedroom. In silk or satin, it is one of the comfiest trends in recent time. Wear with pleasure, great for street style and date nights. All the big names are involved; Ralph Laurent, Alexander Wang, Givenchi and Gucci

silk floral PJ top

Floral Appeal F

loral prints are a classic pattern in the history and world of fashion. It’s one of those prints that will never get old, regardless of the year or season. This year, designers have revived the floral look for Spring/Summer. These buds are blooming outside your yard, showing up in everything and finding expressions in dresses, skirts, blouses, pants and more. The floral appeal brings back the romantic look and they come in age friendly colours and sizes. Lady-like dresses rule this year. Give your wardrobe some flower power.

It’s the beginning of another year and designers have reeled out trends for this year. The looks are as varied as the fabrics, but you’d surely find your comfort zone. From the ruffles trend to the pajamas look and even stripe, there is just so much to revel in. Here are two trends to copy.

Ezinne Chinkata silk floral PJ trouser

HOW TO DO • Flower designs can range

from pretty and delicate to big and bold; choose what fits your personality

lilian silk kata pajamas top

•

Accessorize with solid neutral shades and metallic

Gucci emily patent chain bag

HOW TO DO

• Wear with heals but nothing

Christian Louboutin court shoe

says you can’t wear what fits your personality like Ezinne Chinkata has done.

• For day, if you find this trend too

daring to handle, break up the pieces and work into your regular wardrobe. Tuck pajamas top into pencil skirt for work or a pair of jeans for any other outing. The pajama top is a chic alternative to the button down shirt you are used to.

Ellie Floral Pleated Dress

dakore egbuson

• Wear dressy shoes. Don’t wear

nkeiru amunumudu

/ January 31, 2016

slippers and appear like you just stepped out of your bedroom. If you must wear flats, choose a really dressy pair of gladiators but preferably wear shoes that don’t resemble slippers. A pair of pumps or platforms will do great.

Chanel Designer Handbag

Rocsi nude platform

nude chain bag

linda ejiofor jeans

champagne glittery high heel

eku edewor

January 31, 2016 /

FA S H I O N

FASH IO N

STYLING SOME

2016TRENDS

The pajamaS trend T

By - Jemi Ekunkunbor

silk floral PJ top

Floral Appeal F

Ezinne Chinkata silk floral PJ trouser

HOW TO DO • Flower designs can range

from pretty and delicate to big and bold; choose what fits your personality

lilian silk kata pajamas top

•

Accessorize with solid neutral shades and metallic

Gucci emily patent chain bag

HOW TO DO

• Wear with heals but nothing

Christian Louboutin court shoe

says you can’t wear what fits your personality like Ezinne Chinkata has done.

• For day, if you find this trend too

Ellie Floral Pleated Dress

dakore egbuson

• Wear dressy shoes. Don’t wear

nkeiru amunumudu

/ January 31, 2016

Chanel Designer Handbag

Rocsi nude platform

nude chain bag

linda ejiofor jeans

champagne glittery high heel

eku edewor

January 31, 2016 /

REPORTAGE

Uche Nnaji

- On the Business of Fashion

empty as we consider that rude), the same customers insist on buying OUCH instead. So, we can say that’s an interesting play I have closely watched play out over the years. Did you always want to design? No. I didn’t even know I would find myself in this industry. As a teen, I was actively involved with music in church; and before I turned 17, I was one of the best bass guitarists, at the time, in the Assemblies of God church, Lagos. Then, when I got into the university, I chose a course that would help me in actualizing my dream of becoming a diplomat. But all that changed when I decided to start buying fabrics and take to my tailors in Yaba, Lagos. What motivates you in fashion? My mood, the environment and the weather. You have been married for about 2 years now. How is married life? It’s a learning process and I am humbly going through the learning stage. How do you juggle business and family? I must be honest with you, it hasn’t been easy as I take work back home. As long as my phone is on, I have to work. But, I try to turn off my phone, most times, when I get home and later turn it on to reply mails and messages before turning it off again to go to bed. What challenges did you face starting the business? I faced same challenge any average, young person who wants to grow any idea or business in Nigeria faces up to this day; ranging from shortfall of enabling environment, multitaxing by local and state government agencies, the power issue which takes the cost of running business in these parts way more expensive than elsewhere globally. The list is inexhaustible, even till date. Challenge also came from my family. Naturally, at that time, this didn’t come with all the glamour it has now so my family members, out of love and concern, felt I ought to have still pursued a Masters degree in the UK but I am glad I followed my passion. Till date, we are still facing all these challenges. Except for my family who are now proud of me, every other challenge keeps amplifying daily.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: NELLY MESIK PHOTOGRAPHY: Aham Ibeleme STYLIST: THE STYLE DOCTOR Makeup : Zaron Cosmetics LOCATION: FAHRENHEIT LOFT HOTEL, LAGOS ALL OUTFITS : OUCH

By - Pamela Echemunor

che Nnaji is the CEO of lifestyle fashion brand, OUCH Couture. With passion for fashion, he took up styling early in life while studying Political Science at the University of Lagos. And, like any other determined young man, he built up the business from scratch until it became one of Nigeria’s topmost fashion houses. The Abia State indigene is often called the “style doctor” because of his dapper taste. He has styled people like actors O.C. Ukeje, Bryan Okwara and Melvin Orji. His most influential client is Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR. In this interview, he talks about his business, style and passion.

/ January 31, 2016

How did Ouch Lifestyle Plus come to be? OUCH started as an idea 8 years ago. An idea on how best sartorial solutions can be provided to the discerning man. This gave birth to the movement called OUCH. How has it been breaking into the world of fashion in Nigeria? I must say it has been an interesting journey. Initially, we used to have people come to our store, when it was just one OUCH outlet in Maryland, and price us way below what we have priced our items. Most of them always used the line – “It’s an unknown Nigerian brand so it should be way cheaper than foreign brands”. We used to fall for it then. The most discouraging ones were the well travelled folks who would come and start requesting for foreign brands. But I understood that time settles everything so, we weren’t discouraged by such. Eight years after, a large percentage of our clients now walk into our OUCH outlets and when we offer them another brand which we carry and own (this happens when we are experiencing production delays with new collections, we try not to leave the shelves

What do you think the Nigerian and African fashion scenes need? The fashion scene needs to tell itself the truth about where it really wants to play. The shows are fantastic but, personally, I think it needs to be balanced with the business side. The industry in Nigeria alone has the potential of contributing billions of forex to the IGR of the FG and state gov-ernments but this hasn’t started happening because it is only being treated as a show. The main work that African designers and brands need to focus on next, is how to really make our products marketable to the rest of the world. This starts with ability to produce locally and (ensure that) it meets globally acceptable standards. The scene also needs the intervention of venture capitalists; those who would understand that for the business to become viable, the designer should not be restricted through funding. An endless flow of a designer’s creative juice flows when finance is one less thing to worry about. If you could categorize your personality in three words, what would they be? Determined, focused and traditional. What does style mean to you? It means the unspoken channel through which I convey a message about myself and who I am. What is your vision for OUCH in the years to come? I see an OUCH that would keep getting better at solving sartorial and lifestyle challenges of individuals. I see an OUCH that would be creating more jobs to assist the Nigerian government with the disease called

The main work that African designers and brands need to focus on next is how to really make our products marketable to the rest of the world. unemployment. I see an OUCH that would be taking up locations in major Nigerian cities, then Africa and, eventually, fashion capitals of the world. Aside from being a stylist and designer, you also sing. Tell us about that. Well, I was born into a Christian family where I found myself becoming part of the children’s choir. Those were the formative years for me. These days, I still play my bass guitar once in a blue moon. I did try my hand, two years ago, with a few songs. One of them is still being played on Smooth FM but they never mention the artiste because I am sure most of the presenters will not believe that I did the song. Do you plan to do anything in music in the future or are you doing anything now? Sure, I do plan to; I can’t leave my first love just like that. Maybe, when I earn a sabbatical from OUCH, I would dedicate some more time to it. How did you manage being criticized by your contemporaries back when you just started? People will always criticize what they can’t grasp. I am glad they did back then as it only made me resolve to succeed and clear their doubts (laughs). You do more of men’s clothing and accessories. Do you plan to expand into styling and designing for women? It’s a step at a time. What is fashion without women’s clothing? Most definitely, we will soon. Why did you decide to design for men basically? Charity begins at home (laughs). Who is your focus clientele? Our focus clientele are discerning individuals who know and appreciate quality. Those who put price ahead of quality and comfort don’t fall under this demography. What makes OUCH stand out? Our brand values and culture. For example, we train our staff to understand that what we sell to our clients is not clothes but rather the good feeling; which means that from the moment the client walks in through those doors, you have to do all within your power to make them have a pleasant experience at OUCH. What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs and people who look up to you? They should pick a passion then remain focused on it until it speaks.

January 31, 2016 /

9 5

REPORTAGE

Uche Nnaji

- On the Business of Fashion

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: NELLY MESIK PHOTOGRAPHY: Aham Ibeleme STYLIST: THE STYLE DOCTOR Makeup : Zaron Cosmetics LOCATION: FAHRENHEIT LOFT HOTEL, LAGOS ALL OUTFITS : OUCH

By - Pamela Echemunor

/ January 31, 2016

January 31, 2016 /

9 5

FA S H I O N

ALLUREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

WEEKLY FAB LIST ! By - Fatima Garba

Looking for the latest trends to transition into? Hopefully our weekly fab list will help you decide the major trends to keep you looking fab all day and all week.

THE TRENCH VEST The trench will always be a classic staple in in all of our closets, but this year, it is trending in a fresh sleeveless silhouette. Whether you are running to brunch or heading to a meeting, this vest is a perfect layering option to step up your favorite outfit.Pair it with converse, a tunic dress for a casual look or brush-off that classic white button up and baby doll black heels for a polished work look.

Kurt Geiger trench

Karen Millen sleeveless trench coat

Fendi Embellished Bag

Moschino leopard print dress

EMBELLISHED BAGS The detail of the moment when it comes to bags this season is patched embellishment. They were all over the runways and certainly worth an investment. Whether you shop the bag pre-embellished or DIY a bag you already own, this style is a major eye-catcher.

Saint Laurent embellished bag

PENCIL MIDI SKIRT The midi has been trending for a while, but now, it is back with buttons, zippers, and leather. It is all about the hardware and texture. Pair it with a mock neck sleeveless crop, and bold clutch for cocktails with friends. Or tuck in your go-to button-up, pull out those cute peep toe heels, and march with confidence.

Ă§Kurt Geiger red leopard print pumps

LEOPARD PRINT TREND

Rihanna in Roberto Cavalli leopard dress

Leopard prints will make your look roar this season. Leopard prints are like neutrals they are made up of brown, beige, and black, after all. They are seasonless, and you can wear them with almost anything. Plus, they add a little edge to your wardrobe. Topshop midi skirt

Nicholas midi skirt

/ January 31, 2016

IQ By - Fatima Garba

he Okiki Marinho brand has been in operation since 2012 providing fashionable clothes and luxury hand bags that cater to both working class and high net worth clients. The clothes and bags are distinguished by their unique designs, high quality materials and leather, superior craftsmanship and longevity.In this short Interview,the brain behind this fashion brand, Okiki Marinho give us an insight into her life.

Who is Okiki Marinho? I am a lady who transitioned from a career in Investment banking, then Oil & Gas before becoming a Fashion designer. I am the owner and creative director of my brand (named after me) overseeing a team who make bespoke clothes and fine handcrafted leather handbags. How did the brand come about? The brand was officially birthed in 2012 when I decided to pursue fashion as a full time job. I had a desire to become a global player in the business of fashion, to be part of the generation that will make Nigeria great through creativity, hard work, perseverance and consistency. Has fashion always been a flare for you or is it something you just came across? From an early age, I had shown a keen interest in fashion and I used to look forward to visiting boutiques with my mum. I was always fascinated by women and their varying taste in clothes and was intrigued by how they paired them with accessories. I will say it has always been a flare for me. What challenges do you face in the fashion industry? The challenges we face range from unreliable power supply, to difficulty in employing the right hands for the job. A lot of the youth do not appreciate the gravity of work that is involved in becoming a successful fashion brand. There is a get-rich today via little to no hard work attitude going around. Where do you see the Nigerian Fashion Industry in the next five years? In the next five years I see the fashion industry contributing an even larger revenue to the economy. I

OKIKI MORINHO see more brands gaining a strong foothold in the global market. Rather than Pop up shops with departmental stores we would have fashion houses that will represent the country in a more stable arrangement. I believe we would start styling and dressing up more foreign celebrities at major international award shows. What future projects do you have or hope to achieve? We would be teaming up with a couple of fashion influencers to run a couple of campaigns that will increase brand awareness. We also intend on working on projects that give women a voice to speak out on issues such as infertility by demystifying the contents surrounding it. Can you tell us your signature style? My signature style is the Pleated Wrap Dress. It is very good at concealing areas of the female body that we do not necessarily feel comfortable putting on display. What fashion item is essential to you? A wrist-watch. January 31, 2016 /

H E A L TH

HEALTHY LIVING101 by - Teri Mendes

Healthy-Looking Skin for 2016? Get the Secret Herbs Right Here! Discover which secret herbs can be used to maintain beautiful, healthy skin. Herbs have been used for centuries to help treat skin conditions, improve skin quality and enhance the skin’s appearance.

We all want healthy looking skin and many of us are concerned about what we are actually putting on our skin. Consider herbs or herbal products for a natural, healthy alternative to pricey treatment products especially in this current economic situation. Maintaining healthy skin will ensure proper skin performance and improve your skin’s appearance. CHAMOMILE Chamomile grows as a plant and comes in many different varieties. It is the chamomile flower that is used for medicinal purposes. Traditionally, chamomile is dried and used to brew chamomile tea or in potpourri. Chamomile is considered a safe herb to use on the skin of adults and children. It’s antiinflammatory and contains antimicrobial properties that are excellent in treating inflammatory skin ailments such as eczema, common diaper rash and

psoriasis. Chamomile can also be useful in the healing of wounds, as its extracts are thought to hurry the healing process. Chamomile can be used as part of your daily skin regimen as it is soothing and gentle and can inhibit inflammation of the skin and skin infections. So next products you buy look out for chamomile in the active ingredients. LEMON BALM Lemon balm, once thought of only in the culinary world, has many medicinal uses. Lemon balm leaves are traditionally used to brew teas and drink mixtures. Lemon balm leaves are very aromatic and add wonderful flavor to many culinary dishes. Surprisingly, lemon balm works wonders medicinally as well. Washing cuts or scrapes in a bath of lemon balm tea acts as an antiseptic, while using it on bug bites or skin inflammations can be quite soothing. Additionally, lemon balm has potent anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities that can be beneficial in the treatment of cold sores and herpes simplex virus. ROSE WATER Rose water has long been admired for its natural beauty and skin care benefits. Rose water is frequently used in the treatment of various skin ailments. Rose water is highly regarded as a superb skin toner, as it is a natural astringent. Rose water is also an excellent cleanser due to its anti-inflammatory

TERI Speaks Good Morning Teri, Please how do we prevent the dark armpits because I do shave mine? Thank You NG

/ January 31, 2016

KNOW? The word SPF in SPF15 means Sun Protection Factor. It refers to the theoretical amount of time you can stay in the sun without getting burned.

Many women spend a fortune on skin care products. There are products on the market for every skin problem out there and most of these products are not cheap. It is easy to become inundated with choices and brand names, but it’s not so easy to make a choice on what to purchase for your particular skin type or skin ailment.

Did you

qualities. Washing with rose water daily can decrease the appearance of clogged pores, which can lead to pimples. Rose water also has the ability to act as a disinfectant, cleansing the skin of bacteria that may lead to skin irritations or infections. Additionally, it is said that rose water, when applied hourly, may prevent sunburn. SAGE Regular use of sage oil or sage itself can have a rejuvenating effect on the skin. Rubbing sage oil on the skin can help to renew skin cells, thus preventing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, sage can be helpful in the treatment of several skin ailments including acne, eczema, psoriasis and chapped or cracked skin. Traditionally, sage oil is obtained from sage leaves and used in skin care products. Sage oil can be applied directly to the skin to treat common skin conditions as well as cold sores. In addition, sage can be a successful insect repellent.

BEAUTY BYTES: Add sugar to soap to exfoliate. That is it for today my readers! Hope you enjoyed this piece! Remember you read it here first! For comments and questions please email terimendes@gmail. com, @terimendes. I would love to hear from you, till next week. - it’s ta ta for now! XOXO

Dear NG, Thanks for writing in. Hope you were able to find a solution to questions from Last week Sunday’s article which had preventative steps to dark pits. I always say avoid too much use of hair removing creams and eventually you will notice that your under arms will start to lighten. These hair removing agents contain acids that can darken the skin. Let me know how you get on. And keep writing in! Best wishes,

Teri M

FEATU R E

POCKET FINA by - Omilola Oshikoya Ten Practical TIPS to creating Wealth in 2016 1. Change your mindset. The first thing would be to change your mindset. It all starts with the mind. According to Paul Martinelli, “everything you see was created twice, first in the mind of the creator.” Paul Martinelli also says “where your focus goes your energy flows.” The Bible says “As a man thinketh so is he.” A lot of people are poor because of their mindset. There is a quote from a book that I contributed to called the Money Book, it says “The rich believe that they are free to become & achieve anything they want to, the poor believe they are in bondage, restrained or constrained by external forces from becoming & achieving anything. Whichever way, the rich because of his belief and mindset gets richer; The poor also is where he is by reason of his belief and mindset.” You are what you believe. Believe no matter how difficult it is now that you can achieve in life. Let me share two stories of two very wealthy people. The founder of Dominos Pizza had a tough childhood. He was raised in orphanages and foster homes. His father died when he was four. He graduated last in high school. He was expelled from catholic seminary. He tried college six times but never got past his fresh man year. In 1960, he and his brother borrowed $900 to buy a pizzeria. His brother left within a year. He stayed on and worked really hard. 18 hours a day, 7 days a week. In year 2000, Dominos had over 5000 stores in the US alone and over 300 other stores in other countries. This is almost 15 years before they came into the Nigerian market.

KATHY EMIKO

NCE

The richest man in the world from 2010 to 2013 was Carlos Slim Helu, a Mexican. He oversees a vast business empire that is influential in every sector of the Mexican Economy. At the age of 14 his grandmother sent him away to avoid being drafted into the army. He opened his first current account and bought his first shares at age 12. If they can do it, then you can do. 2. Dream big “Albert Einstein says “your imagination is everything. It is a preview of life’s coming attractions.” I recently read that Jack Nicklaus the legendary golfer who won more than 100 tournaments & more than 5.7 million dollars in winnings said “I never hit a shot, not even in practice without a very sharp, focus picture of it.” Jim Carrey, the actor in films like Dumb and dumber, The Mask, Ace Ventura etc used to drive his old Toyota up to Mull Holland drive to look at the city below and imagine his future, when he was a young struggling actor. One time he wrote himself a cheque for 10million dollars and postdated it Thanksgiving 1995. He wrote for acting services rendered. He kept it in his wallet & took it where ever he went. In 1994, after the films, Ace Ventura etc where released his asking price had risen to 20 million dollars per picture. In 1994 when his dad died, he placed the cheque in his coffin as a tribute to the man that taught him how to dream. Remember, you are never too old to dream. At 52, Leonardo Davinci completed Monalisa. At age 75, Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa. …TO BE CONTINUED

Omilola Oshikoya is Africa’s premier Wealth Coach and the founder of Omilola Oshikoya International. After over 10 years in finance /investment banking, Omilola resigned from a successful career in pursuit of fulfilment. Please send an email to Omilola on pocketfinance@omilola.com. Twitter: @omilola, Instagram: @omilolaoshikoya, Facebook: @omilolaoshikoya, Website: www.omilola.com

BodyPerfect not just slimming but fitness

Drink Mainly Water Sports or energy drink, fruit smoothie, or a bottle of soft drink — each serving contains about 100 calories or more. Yet, these beverages don’t satisfy you the way 100 calories of food does, so they’re a waste. Other liquids may be high in sodium and carbohydrates, which trick your body into retaining water, puffing you out.Water, on the other hand, has zero calories and carbs and little to no sodium, making it the perfect slim-down drink. And strangely, it actually helps flush out excess water weight as well as jump-starts your metabolism. If it’s just too boring, add lemon wedges or mint leaves. There are many reasons why it is important to drink water, especially if you want a quick weight loss: • Initial weight loss is largely due to loss of water, and you need to drink an adequate amount of water in order to avoid dehydration. • The process of burning calories requires an adequate supply of water in order to function efficiently; dehydration slows down the fat-burning process. • Burning calories creates toxins (think of the exhaust coming out of your car), and water plays a vital role in

flushing them out of your body. • Dehydration causes a reduction in blood volume; a reduction in blood volume causes a reduction in the supply of oxygen to your muscles; and a reduction in the supply of oxygen to your muscles can make you feel tired. • Water helps maintain muscle tone by assisting muscles in their ability to contract, and it lubricates your joints. Proper hydration can help reduce muscle and joint soreness when exercising. • A healthy (weight loss) diet includes a good amount of fiber. But while fiber is normally helpful to your digestive system, without adequate fluids, it can cause constipation

instead of helping to eliminate it. • Drinking water with a meal may make you feel full sooner and therefore satisfied eating less. Note, however, that drinking water alone may not have this effect. In order to feel satiated (not hungry), our bodies need bulk, calories and nutrients. HOW MUCH WATER SHOULD I DRINK? You have probably heard that you should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. How much water you actually need depends on your weight, level of activity, the temperature and humidity of your environment, and your diet. Your diet makes a difference because if you eat plenty of water-dense foods like fruits and vegetables your need to drink water will be diminished. You can do some research and use a calculator and measuring cup if you like, but nature’s pretty good at letting you know the right amount to drink. When you drink enough water, your urine will usually be pale yellow, though vitamin supplements and antibiotics can discolor it. On the other hand, you shouldn’t need to run to the bathroom too frequently. When in doubt, drink a little more. Do not worry that drinking water will give your body a bloated look. There are a number of causes of water retention, including consuming too much salt. But drinking water is not one of them. It is possible to harm yourself by drinking too much water, but it takes quite an effort. Either through obsessivecompulsive behavior or extended athletic activity, drinking large amounts of water can dilute the electrolytes (sodium and potassium) in your blood to the point that it interferes with brain, heart and muscle function. Athletes compound the problem with the loss of sodium (salt) through sweating, but can drink electrolyte replacement drinks. Princess Kathy is a certified nutrition and fitness consultant. Email: bodyperfectng@gmail.com | Twitter: @usoorganic | BB: 2B679D12 | Blog: princess Kathy Emiko.

January 31, 2016 /

FEATU R E

luxury

wines spirits With Pamela Echemunor

The Basics Of Serving Wine Serving wine varies from person to person, but there are standard procedures and techniques wine experts advice enthusiasts to follow which would make the experience of wine drinking more enjoyable. Here are a few tips to consider.

Corking the wine bottle Punch the cork slightly away from the centre. Ensure the worm (the ‘worm’ is the curlycue part of a wine opener) to be centred so that it’s less likely to split the cork. The corkscrew should be inserted into the cork about one turn less than all the way in. Some fine wines have long corks and you can go all the way in.

Temperature Red wine tastes a lot better when served slightly below room temperature from 53-69 °F.

A proper glass will make any wine taste better When it comes to wine glasses, enthusiasts recommend the Vinum Glass which was created by Georg Riedel, a 10th generation Austrian glass maker. The Vinum is a machine-made crystal glass which easily decants wine making it easier to experience the flavours as you consume it.

Use a decanter Decanting is one of the best ways to enjoy red wine, because it will greatly improve the flavour of red wine. The classic method is to pour wine into a glass pitcher or wine decanter and let it sit for about 30-45 minutes. The faster way is to use a wine aerator which decants wine almost instantaneously.

/ January 31, 2016

Pour a standard wine serving A bottle of wine contains just over 739 ml (25 Ounces), so it’s common to see it portioned out into five-5 ounce (150 ml) servings. This helps one measure the appropriate amount to avoid getting drunk.

Pour the wine into the glass Cradle the wine bottle with both hands, carefully pour about 4 or 5 ounces of wine into the glass. You should leave the glass sitting on the table when pouring. Twisting the wine bottle gently towards the end of the pour will help prevent the last bit of wine from dripping down the bottle.

Holding the wine glass There are various ways to hold a wine glass. However, the most common way to experience wine, is by holding it by the stem. It seems logical to cup the bowl, however your hands will heat up your wine.

FOOD E By Pamela Echemunor

Delicious Salad dressing with Avocado

Avocado is one of the most nutritious fruits on the planet. It is enriched with vitamins and minerals that the body needs to survive daily. It contains a good amount of calories, protein and healthy fats. Avocado has a vast number of uses, from being ingested to being used as a beauty product. This fruit is an essential in everyday life. Here are some delicious dressings made from avocado. LEMON AND AVOCADO DRESSING Ingredients • 1 large avocado ripened (skin and pit removed). • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. • 1/4 cup water. • 1/4 cup fresh parsley. • 1 small clove fresh garlic. • Juice of 1/2 lemon. • 1 tsp honey (optional). • Salt and pepper to taste. Method: Place all ingredients except oil and water in the bowl of a food processor or mixer. (A high-speed blender works beautifully, too.) With the blade running, add the oil, slowly followed by the water. Puree until smooth. Add a bit more oil and water if too thick. AVOCADO AND CUCUMBER DRESSING Ingredients • 1/3 cup olive oil. • 1 clove garlic, minced. • 3/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. • 2 avocados, peeled, seeded and cubed. • 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and cut into chunks Chilli pepper and Salt to taste. Method: Puree the olive oil and garlic in a blender until smooth. Add the cilantro, avocado, cucumber, and lemon juice. Puree again until smooth, then season with salt and pepper.

Email: pamela.echemunor@gmail.com, Instagram: @nanya2207, Twitter @nanya2207.

PEO PL E

“ONE PARTY AT A TIME!”

:08039675880

The Vonne Flagship Store Debut By - Latasha Ngwube

ONO BELLO

OMOWUNMI AKINNIFESI

TADE OLAFISOYE

MIMI ONALAJA

DAYO OKENIYI

The VONNE diffusion label from the mother label, Vonne Couture, creatively led by Yvonne Nwosu, recently released its first offerings for the Spring/Summer season. Its flagship store located in the heart of Victoria Island, Lagos, opened with a fashion cook out and grill. Celebrities and socialites alike let their hair down to the soothing beats from Escape Club’s finest DJ as they sipped refreshing cocktails while taking in the new merchandise. Discounts were offered, gifts were won, tons of fashionistas came through to shop as people partied through the night.

Yvonne Nwosu

Isio Nwanogho

Lande Agusto

TONYE GARRICK

Dodos Uvighara & Titi

Cointreau-Fizz Sundaze cocktail party holds Delphine Okoronkwo

MUNACHI ABII

By - Pamela Echemunor

Bella Naija and J.Room recently, hosted its annual Cointreau-Fizz Sundaze cocktail party. The star studded event, took place at Maison Fahrenheit in Victoria Island Lagos. Guests were treated to mouth watering chops and cocktails by Cointreau-Fizz, while DJ Cuppy and DJ Obi entertained on the spin wheels. The event which kicked off in the afternoon lasted till late and guests were thrilled with a show of fireworks as the event drew to a close. The guests also went home with a Cointreau-Fizz gift box with a delightful selection of macaroons, chocolates and strawberries, and special-edition J.Room and BellaNaija snapbacks. The event was attended by celebrities including Banky, Darey Art-Alade etc and Seyi Shay.

Tiwa Works & Bode Pedro

Latasha Ngwube, Ezinee Chinkata, Banky W & Uche Pedro

Adebayo Oke Lawal

Ejiro Enaohiwo

DEOLA BAKARE

Lillian Unachukwu

Freda Francis

ZED EYE

JENNIFER OLIZE

DENOLA GREY

SWANKY JERRY

INI EDO

January 31, 2016 /