Focus: Andrea Ushedo’s Kitschai

Neon Colors

Eye-catching, hot and dangerous, fluorescent neon colors really look fantastic and bright. Choosing acid green, muted neon, pink or electric blue clothes will make you stand out in the crowd. Indeed, these colours are very nice, feminine and add an intrigue to your style. They highlight your bright personality and your goal to keep up with the latest fashion trends. However, whenever choosing one of these colours make sure not to overuse the latter since it can be risky in the aspect that you may look like a three colored traffic light. Pair these colours with simpler and softer tones so that there is a contrast. Wear neon bright colours on the part of your body you most of all want to define, since, once the colour appears on that zone, it will indeed attract attention first of all.
Whether neon is one of your favorite colours or you are just testing out the trend, it’s still a great way to add some brightness and cheerfulness to your summer wardrobe and make you have a fresh look. Follow the style tips below and learn interesting things about the neon colour trend and how to wear neon colours wisely in order not to look like a glow-stick.

HOW TO CHOOSE NEON COLOURS 

When it comes to colour trends today, one of the most loved and lively colors that make you look really glamorous is any shade of neon. The colours of bright green, pink, yellow and orange can change your entire look once chosen correctly and worn in harmony with the rest of the outfit. It is important to put the outfit together in a clever way, to use matching accessories in an appropriate quantity that will only compliment the look and you are done.

When choosing neon coloured clothing, you need to be honest to yourself. Never opt for this or that colour unless it is matching you well enough. No matter what today’s trend may be, the colour for your body becomes trendy only when it suits you well. See which colours bring out your features. For example, blue colours can bring out blue eyes, and tanner colours can bring out highlights in your hair. You need to be open and enjoy the experience while attempting different pieces of these colours. Try different hues, examine your look in the mirror and compare each of the shades thoroughly. You will sure pick the ones that are for your skin tone and suit your figure properly. Once you feel comfortable in them, you will be able to show off your trendy look with confidence.
Since neon colours are trendy in today’s high fashion and everybody strives to have at least one piece of clothes in this colour, here are some essential tips to follow when choosing neon clothes. For those being shy it is recommended to start with one shade of neon first. Once you start feeling comfortable in it, you can go on adding either matching accessories or other neon colours close in the shade. Start wearing these outfits on the beach, at home. Once you feel you are ready to show off, make these colours become your everyday choice for an ordinary casual look.

Other tips that will help you keep up with the trend while staying within your comfort zone are as follows:

1. Pick the neon shade that you love most of all and that goes well with your skin tone and hair colour. For example, if your face is pale, then accordingly yellow and orange will not look good for you. Instead, you should take brighter colours like neon pink or cobalt blue.
2. Don’t make all your outfits in the neon colour. Remember that this trend may disappear soon and you will later regret for having spent too much money on this colour. Take one or 2 pieces of clothes in the colours and combine them with neutral shades and you will sure have different variations for different occasions. Wear the neon colour item with the clothing piece that you already have. A neon shirt, for example, may look very stylish, when combined with some sexy skinny jeans you already have. Or simple accessories like a neon belt and matching purse can always be added to an outfit from your existing closet, giving it a second life.
3. Think twice. If you don’t want to catch attention, never opt for this colour, since neon will always make you visible from afar.
4. Check if the outfit fits you well. Since neon colours are extremely bold and eye-catching, they tend to make anyone look larger than they are. If you have a triangle body, use the neon colours for your top part. For oval shaped bodies, feel free to use neon bottoms. If you have an ideal body shape with proper curves and slim legs, then wear neon on whichever zone you like.
5. Choose accessories that will not overdo the outfit. Go for accessories that help to tone down the brightness of neon colors.
6. Don’t know if the colour will suit you? Then try small neon accessories first before purchasing any other piece of clothing. A neon belt or a clutch, or just your favorite neon nail polish can give you a hint if you like the colour or not. Once you check these, go ahead buying your beloved neon colour outfit.

WHERE TO WEAR NEON COLOURS

Since these colours are bright they can be easily worn on the beach. Here you don’t have to limit yourself with one hue of neon only. Feel free to take all the neon colours with you since there is no other ideal place than the sunny beach to show off these bright and lively hues. Be sure that you can wear whatever you want without worrying about an over-colored look.

For other cases, the choice of neon colours depends on the type of the event you are going to participate. Check the dress code if there is any. Stay on the safe side without too much attention. It is better to be safe than inappropriate.
You shouldn’t wear bright neon colours at office, to an interview or during any other business related activities. Yet don’t hesitate to wear neon colours on informal occasions, when visiting your friends or hanging out with them. For any other events that demand high fashion, neon colours can by all means prevail in your outfit.

HOW TO WEAR NEON COLOURS 

If you’re feeling confident and adventurous, why not make these lovely colours prevail in your wardrobe? Try a neon dress, a yellow one, for example. Layer it with a neutral blazer that you can easily take off as the weather gets warmer. This will be an ideal outfit for both a casual day wear and evening look.

However, for everyday use, neon colours can be a little bit tricky so pay attention to the tips suggested below learning how to put neon things together. The key elements to always keep in mind with neon colours are:

1. Use black or neutral together with neon colours in order to bring the bold and bright hues into balance.
2. Don’t wear too many accessories with these bright colours. Don’t match your bangles and hoops to your neon mini skirt, for example.
3. Neon on the bottom half is not that acceptable in most cases because it’s not next to your face. Especially if you don’t have a slim figure in the thigh area, then you will highlight the imperfection even more. You had better keep neon tones for your top part and wear darker shades beneath.
4. Dark black tights always work. With these tights you can choose any neon colour for your top or neon loose dresses and you will have a fascinating look.

In a word, it is important to pair your outfits in taste. To be on the safe side avoiding being considered way too tasteless, dress as you would normally do and wear one piece of cloth in neon colour. Combine colours as you normally do and apply this to neon colours. For example, if blue and yellow look good together, then use fluorescent yellow shorts with a vibrant blue blouse. Stick to the colour blocking rules, and you’ll do it right.

However, if there are colours that you do not know how to combine, turn to the classical white or black ones. Combine the neon colour with a white or black piece and you will have an ideal outfit.
If in the summer you want to look all in neon, combining two neon pieces, make sure that one is brighter than the other one. Or if you want to excess the limits and go for 3 colours of neon, which is indeed very risky and does not suit everyone, then at least pick 2 that are within the same family of colors and pick the third one in a different neon hue. For example: a pink and orange pair of shorts, pink shirt and green cardigan.

ACCESSORIZING NEON COLOURS

The best way is to start with the little things, like accessories. Just add a touch of neon here and there and your outfit will be complete. Here are some quick tips to follow:

• Since neon is indeed a big trend today, feel free balancing it out with accessories of softer colours. Add a pair of neutral wedges and a bright cuff or a necklace. To take it to the next level, try an equally bright nail polish colour to complete your look.
• You can always try the trend of neon colour wearing it in a subtle way. Building an outfit around neutrals is a great way to sport a neon colour. Try pairing a neon top with a basic, black skirt. The neutral colors will help the neon colour stick out, but it won’t overwhelm you. Add a pair of nude ballet flats, simple accessories and a classic black bag.
• Another subtle way to test out the neon trend is by accessorizing. Pair a simple gray peplum top with a pair of classic, black pants, then stick to the neon. A pair of bright neon high heeled shoes or a bag will only add colour to this basic outfit. You can also put on a neon necklace, earrings or bracelets to polish off the look. A classical look will always be modernized and refreshed with a slight touch of neon appearing on it.
• I recommend a satchel bag in bright yellow that can be complimenting a formal dress or a white tee with cropped pants. Long necklaces with shocking pink pendants also look great. Even if you have a strict dress code at the office you work, there is still a chance for you to make use of these colours, which will never harm your career. Instead of having a gloomy, dull raincoat, opt for a neon-coloured or transparent trench coat. You will feel fashionable, will satisfy your hunger for the trend, however once you get to the office you can take it off and no dress code restrictions can be applied against you. Or you can choose plastic neon umbrellas instead. Any accessory in neon tones can be easily used by you.

Another smart way of wearing neon colours is working in a combination of two colors or a combination of the same hues. Thus, you can mix and match one neon hue with pastels or neutral shades. Or wear a neon shade of the same color with a non-neon shade of it, like a baby pink wit neon pink, or a neon blue with a brick blue. And why not add some light neon touches to your look with the help of a scarf, a hair accessory, a belt or sunnies. And you will look extremely trendy and appealing. Last but not least, you can turn to the trick of wearing a neon makeup.
There are so many ways of wearing neon coloured clothes that you simply cannot keep all of them in mind. Always make sure to try each of the accessories first, compare the final look, make sure you do not lack confidence in the outfit and once ready, feel free to head out to show off yourself.

Here you have some looks I pulled out for you:

Shirt, calypsostbarth.com. Jeans, Paul & Bear. Shoes, heels.com. Clutch, Zara.

Pants, Stella McCartney. Jacket, Topshop. T-shirt, Mango. Bag, boticca.com. Shoes, Zara.

Shirt, Mango. Skirt & Flats, Asos. Clutch, Accessorize.

Is that a face on your make-up?

Do the wrinkles on your face scream, “LOOK AT ME!” after your standard makeup application? Rather than chalking it up to age, the main thing to consider are your makeup choices. Just like hairstyles, makeup techniques can add or subtract years to your appearance.
Prepare to hop aboard your own personal time machine with these makeup do’s and don’ts. Destination? 10 years younger.

1. Don’t skip or cake on foundation
Skipping out on foundation in your daily makeup routine can have harsh effects. Foundation helps even out your skin tone, whereas going sans coverage can put all of your skin’s flaws in the spotlight. A sheer, translucent foundation corrects the flaws and helps liven up the skin for a youthful, even tone. If you have oily skin, shoot for a mineral powder. For dry skin, tinted moisturizers are the best way to go. Another thing that can put creases & wrinkles on full display? TOO MUCH foundation. Heavy makeup is a one-way ticket to Ageville; it makes you appear older than you are.

2. Using too light of a base
Foundation that’s lighter than your skin tone will only exaggerate wrinkles and fine lines. Try a hue that’s 1-2 shades darker with a hint of shimmer. It will give your skin a fresh glow.

3. Applying blush incorrectly
Blush applied to the apples of the cheeks can draw attention to cheek wrinkles and sagging skin under the eyes. Apply color on the highest point of the cheekbone and brush upward. A rose-tinted shade of blush works great for all skin tones and ages, but don’t overdo it! Heavy color on the cheeks gives off a severe, clownish appearance. A general rule of thumb with makeup: Too much = AGING.

4. Metallic eyeshadow
Frosty-colored eyeshadows magnify creased eyelids and wrinkles. Instead, try a matte or solid color in peach or taupe which work great on all skin tones. For more advice on your best makeup, check out our post on The Best Makeup For Your Hair Color!

5. Mascara & eyeliner on lower lashes
Applying mascara and eyeliner to your lower lashes highlights two of the things you want to hide most: Crow’s Feet and dark circles. Plus, it makes your eyes looks smaller. For big, bright eyes – coat your top lashes with the blackest mascara to make the whites of your eyes look bright and clear. Also be sure to curl your lashes to make them look fuller – which of course means YOUNGER!

6. Wearing Deep, Dark Lip Colors
A dark color makes any surface look smaller—a welcome illusion perhaps on your hips but not your lips. To make your mouth look fuller (one hallmark of a youthful face), choose bright lipsticks and glosses (peaches, pinks, vibrant reds) over deep shades (burgundies, wines, browns). Makeup artists use another trick to create the illusion of luscious lips: Before applying color, trace a highlighter pencil along your upper lip line, then buff it out with your finger.

7. Choosing a Too-Dark Eyebrow Pencil
“Your brow color fades as you age, so the brow pencil that you were using at 25 will look too stark against your complexion at 50,” says makeup artist Denise Markey. I recommend Maybelline Define-a-Brow Eyebrow Pencils, which comes in four shades or you could go with IMAM or Zaron Eyebrow pencils. Choose the one that’s a shade or two lighter than your natural brow color. If your brows are starting to get a little wiry, run a clear brow gel over them as well, brushing them up and out toward your temples.
Has these tips helped you? Help a friend by sharing this article on Facebook, Twitter or via Email.
Stay Beautiful, Stay Happy, Stay Healthy!!!

For the Love of White!

I love white and so does Tiwa Savage! Yea, i bet you have also noticed. I have few white pieces in my wardrobe, I guess its time to add a few more.

Below are celebs who look extremely fab on white!

Tiwa Savage on a white for the Women Celebrate Women Concert at Eko Hotels back in June, 2013

Genevieve Nnaji on white at the AMVCA

White Friday

 

 

Forget about the days when it’s been cloudy,

But don’t forget your hours in the sun.

Forget about the times you’ve been defeated,

But don’t forget the victories you’ve won.

Forget about the mistakes that you can’t change now,

But don’t forget the lessons you have learnt.

Forget about the misfortunes you’ve encountered,

But don’t forget the times your luck has turned.

Forget about the people who have disappointed you,

But don’t forget the ones who showed you kindness.

Forget about the days when you’ve been lonely,

 But don’t forget the friends you’ve made along the way.

Forget about the lost opportunities of the past,

But don’t forget to seize the possibilities of the present.

Forget about the plans that didn’t seem to work out right,

But don’t forget to always have a dream.

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity;

An optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” Winston Churchill

culled from frills and thrills

AWFL 2013 IS BACK AND ITS BIGGER AND BETTER THIS YEAR

The countdown has begun for London fans of African fashion. The third edition of Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) is set to return 1-4 August 2013 and there is just one month to go! In a bid to grow bigger, AFWL has not only expanded to three days but also moved to a bigger venue, Old Truman Brewery, in Shoreditch, London.

AFWL celebrates the work of African and African inspired designers in the UK. The annual event debuted in 2011 and welcomed 4,700 visitors followed by its sophomore edition in 2012 at London Spitalfields which attracted over 20,000 visitors.

Created by Ronke Ademiluyi CEO, AFWL aims to be the single, biggest African event in the UK.

This year’s event is set to see 100 designers on the runway and over 100 exhibitors spread across Old Truman Brewery’s massive indoor space, once again making AFWL the biggest fashion event across Europe showcasing African and African-inspired fashion.

AFWL ambassadors are just as fabulous – three gorgeous, glamorous and gifted ladies of African descent. Last year’s ambassador, Ghanaian model Menaye Donkor Muntari is joined by fellow model and philantrophist, Noella Coursaris Musunka of Congo and Noisettes lead singer of Zimbabwean descent, Shingai Shoniwa.

AFWL 2013 Ambassadors- Shingai Shoniwa, Noella Coursaris Musunka & Menaye Donkor Muntari

Another important change for Africa Fashion Week London comes in the form of two patrons this year, Princess Fifi Ejindu, the Nigeria-based architect and businesswoman and Yinka Shonibare MBE, the London-based globally celebrated Nigerian fine artist.
AFWL 2013 Patrons- Princess Fifi Ejindu and Yinka Shonibare MBE

“I believe Africa Fashion Week London is a great platform for African talent and a great opportunity for Africa to showcase the talent that we possess. The era of the hungry African child is long over and it is now time for our culture to be recognised globally,” said Mrs. Ejindu of AFWL.

The three days of back-to-back fashion shows will lead to the exclusive African Arts and Fashion Banquet to be held at The Dorchester, sponsored by leading pan-African women’s bimonthly New African Woman, L’Oréal’s premium professional haircare range for Afro Caribbean and mixed-race hair textures Mizani and Africa’s fastest growing telecommunications company Globacom Limited.

The exclusive first fundraiser event for the African Arts and Fashion Initiative aims to create start up funds for young designers to assist them in turning their creativity into sustainability. Set to feature fashion shows, art exhibits, and an exclusive celebration of African arts and fashion, the event will also see awards given out to those who have contributed to the growth of youth and women empowerment in Africa.

African Arts and Fashion Banquet will play host to the crème de la crème of African dignitaries and VIPs. In attendance will be the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Edem Duke who has given his endorsement to the event will be in attendance as well as the keynote speakers, the First Lady of Cross River State, Her Excellency Mrs. Liyel Imoke and Ghanaian economist, scientist, political writer and former chairman of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Ghana Professor Edward Ayensu.

“With this event we intend to raise start-up funds for emerging talent and tuition fees for extremely talented designers, hence in a way we are empowering the youth of Africa. While some have the opportunity and the funds to start their fashion labels, many others have no one to give them an opportunity or the funds they need. We have all the natural resources and all the talent in Africa but we should not leave it just to our leaders to help progress. If each of us were to sweep our own doorstep, the world would become a cleaner place. Therefore, this is our way to help emerging talent to a global platform and the funds they need,” Ejindu added.

Tickets for Africa Fashion Week London 2013 are now on sale at http://www.africafashionweeklondon.com

To participate in AFWL 2013 as a designer or support the event as a sponsor, please email info@africafashionweeklondonuk.com

For more information, visit:
Website: http://www.africafashionweeklondon.com
Twitter: @africafwl
Facebook: /africafwl
Instagram: africafwl
For media enquiries, please contact  Two PR at pr@stwopr.com @stwopr.com

Georges Hobeika Fall Couture 2013

 Amidst all the excitement and glamour that was Paris Fall Couture Week, Lebanese designerGeorges Hobeika showcased his royally inspired gem of a collection. Historical references to past princesses were freckled across the runway, denoted by elaborate ruffled (removable) Elizabethan collars, gleaming satin coat dresses and classic pencil skirts.

Monday Blues

For what it’s worth: it’s never too late,
Or too early to be whoever you want to be.

There’s no time limit, stop whenever you want.

You can change or stay the same,

Yellow Yellow

Trend of the Week: Yellow Dresses

The bridesmaids look urrrr….lovely on yellow. Most people do not like yellow as a color. Well, I do.

Bright yellow dresses are an emerging trend that have been spreading sunshine all over the Spring/Summer 2012 runways. From New York to Milan Fashion Week, varying shades of yellow have been a favourite with designers.

Yellow is no longer just a daytime-summer-sundress type of colour. It has streamed over into formal wear, with elegant floor-length gowns in silky, flowing fabrics and sparkly embellishments. Yellow is a colour that suits most skin tones and hair colours, the trick is to find the right shade for you. Brighter yellows looked striking against darker skin tones and on brunettes. Soft, buttery shades flatter paler skins and blondes. If you’re not keen on a fluorescent tint, try out a subtle lemonade shade.

Celebrities that Started the Yellow Trend 

Julia Kurbatova in a lemon one shouldered gown with hip flounce at the Golden Globes.

Charlize Theron looked graceful in a floral embroidered Stella McCartney ensemble.

Maria Menounos shimmers in a mustard yellow sequined Blumarine column gown.

Elizabeth Olsen wore an intricately beaded Emilio Pucci mini at the People’s Choice Awards.

Mireille Enos in a vivid yellow beaded gown by Naeem Khan at the Golden Globe Awards.

 

 She flaunts her luscious  “money-maker” in this yellow dress at the Ebony Live TV Launch. Hot or Not ?

Get With The Trend

 

Hop on board the yellow submarine, with these affordable and adorable dresses.

How To Make It Through The Week

The first half of the year has swung by in a flash and some of us will find ourselves having the Mid-Year Itch. Where the weeks just drag by and dwindle into monotony. It’s time to press the refresh button on 2

Tips To Make It Through The Week…With Your Sanity Intact
* Indulge in one thing you love, be it a slice of chocolate cake, a luxurious bubble bath or a miniature shopping expedition.
* Get your full 8 hours of sleep at least one night this week. You will feel well rested & thoseLouis Vuitton bags you were carrying under your eyes will thank you for lightening the load.
* Have your hair professionally blown out or treat yourself to a mani/pedi in your lunch break.
* Soak your feet in some warm water and bath salts after a long stressful day.

* Find the ability to ‘Say No’ to new projects or people that you currently don’t have the time or mental strength for.
* Do one thing this week to declutter your desk, your closet or your life.
* Surround yourself with something beautiful – a bouquet of flowers, a pretty ornament, wall hanging or a memorable photo frame.
* Take 10 minutes to feed your skin with some sunshine. You will gain a healthy glow and absorb that all important Vitamin D. Don’t forget the SPF.

* Take the time to have a cup of coffee with a good friend.
* Reflect, meditate, pray or do anything similarly relaxing that’s soothing for the soul.
* Carry an inspirational book to read while waiting in line or commuting to work/school.
* Wear something that boosts your confidence this week; a great dress, pair of high heels or bright lipstick. Don’t forget your best accessory – a smile.

* Enroll in a class that you’ve always been interested in – salsa dancing, creative writing, yoga, art. It will instill some excitement into the tedium of the week. If you find that you don’t like it, hey, at least you tried something new.
* Exercise the K.I.T.Y syndrome – Keep It To Yourself. By not giving in to your exasperations and anger, and by controlling your thoughts, you will avoid unnecessary conflict.
* Take things one task at a time. Overburdening yourself with too many duties and deadlines with heighten your levels of stress.
* Sing in the shower. As long as your neighbours don’t complain, it’s an upbeat way to start the day. Singing releases endorphins, creating a natural happy high.

* Light some beautifully scented candles when you get home, it will enhance your mood.
* Have one healthy, and fully balanced meal this week, and skip out on greasy, overprocessed take out food. Include eating your greens, it’s good for you, promise.
* Laugh Out Loud. Watch a funny TV series, rent a comedy, read a joke or spend time with someone who truly makes you smile.
* If there’s ever a point when things seem to get just too much – Stop for a minute. Breathe in deeply. Assess how bad the situation is. Write down your thoughts. Work on finding a solution.

* Congratulate yourself on something that you succeeded at this week.
* That one task you were putting off for weeks now – Get it done. Today.
* Stop worrying about tomorrow before today is even over.
* Every night before bed, think of one thing that you were grateful for during the day.

If by Friday, you’re still in one piece, without burning anything down, pulling all your hair out or breaking down…Congratulations! You’ve made it through the week!013 and find some exciting ways to make it through the week.