Gathering Strength for Weeks Ahead

“I need utmost strength for the weeks ahead”

“I need strength for weeks to come.”

“I need strength and courage for the next coming weeks.”

Perhaps till the end of this year.

These are words I’ve been muttering to myself for over five days now. I’ve always acknowledged September as the ‘crazy’ month – the month of activities, events, shows, career upgrade, etc but suddenly it’s beginning to seem like it’s more than that, well especially since I have more on my plate. My to-do-list has increased times threes of what it used to be but I took time out to sort the highs and lows of it all.

Considering it’s September – the fashion January wherein comes all sorts of fashion events, shows, parties and awards I have recently learnt to carefully take care of me which in the past has failed me even on important days as the last day of ARISE Fashion Show 2012, leaving all whining and sipping coffee alone at home while my colleagues partied – well, maybe worked through the night.

Below I have highlighted few things that will keep any hard working fashion girl in Lagos active and alive through the coming months that will include a lot of show, event and party hopping. I got it all covered, from the Elite Model Look Nigeria, MTN Lagos Fashion and Design Week 2012 which will run for four days, to FAB Awards, fashion designer parties here and there and lots more;

-         Water; drink lots of water. Of course it cannot be over emphasized. Water keeps you refreshed and going, stay away from those overly sweet drinks for a while

-         Rest; at least get four hours of sleep. A nap goes a long way you know right?

-         Flats/Heels; it’s okay to look and feel stylish but hey the pains on the feet, toes are not that pleasant and it’s a long way to December.

-         Less Carbs; yes carbs! Carbs make you weak, slowing down the metabolism thereby reducing the required strength needed.

-         Shower; get cold/warm/hot water on that skin!

-         Discover; there are few things as fun as discovering new things. Discover new places, people and products, you’d be happy you did.

-         Multivitamin; a pop of vitamin, revitalizes you and there you go!

-         Friends; have fun with friends. It could be quite boring attending a function alone, grab a friend or family along for fun.

-         Mint; keep your breath fresh and the right endorphins in your brain – get some mint.

There are lots more but these few will keep both body and mind sound…

Versailles Rhapsody

There are numerous things that impress me about Chanel and of course the great designer Karl Lagerfeld, first is how incredibly they transform a mere space into a dream. I mean…who does that? Often, I wonder what it’s actually like to get into a Chanel show because frankly I can spend every day attending one – well, after doing all officially required work. Focusing on the present, the recently unveiled 2012/13 Resort collection showcased at Versailles, France is still giving me goosebumps and I cannot –yet – pinpoint what exactly is giving me the spark or making me go wow! Wow! Wow! at each piece.

I’m watching the show right now and I can say particularly that for each piece there’s a story – a definite one at that. However few things come out fabulous like the shiny, double/ triple soled espadrille-looking creepers AND the-girl-in-the-dragon-tattoo- style hair cut ) all these combine everything perfectly thereby giving them that charming look of class. You know the class that says “Yes, I am a lady, a beautiful woman with class and while I like to look sexily attractive I also want to be very comfortable and stylish”. Pieces from the collection include; jackets which are a constant Chanel item, skirts, cute doll dresses, wrap gowns, overly big pants(what they call them again?), sweaters, circle skirts, leather pants, coats etc all made from a wide range of materials; wool, tweed, linen, satin, lace embroidery, and lots of other accessories. The styling as usual is simple perfection with essential details like pearls, studs, silver statement neckpieces, belts, bracelets, chain bags and clutches, brooches and neck chokers which sealed each look to perfection. Oh how I love! From swim suits, lovely evening and tea dresses to casual hang-out-with-the-friends and errand day looks this collection is nothing short of amazing. For me, I say this collection is A-amazing. I’ve always known that there are three things that sets an event on a top scale; the Venue which is best defined by an unusual décor, the Guests in attendance and the DJ! Yes, I had to scream that, the wrong DJ will definitely ruin a perfectly planned show or event. Well, Chanel and Karl never disappoint with all that – always on point! The whole idea at the show I guess is to give guests that old Parisian feel say a modern Maria Antoinette of class which is gradually returning into the industry and personal wardrobes; and when Chanel does it everybody accepts it.

It doesn’t come as a surprise anymore as Karl has remained one of the most respected and innovative creative personality in the fashion industry worldwide, people look up to him and I say he is my fashion animal. Well then, to a lovely new Chanel collection and more to come I say … Love, Kisses and Chanel!