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Grammy Winner Ciara Celebrates Lagos’ Glow-Up on Stylish City Tour

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Grammy-winning singer Ciara Princess Wilson lit up the streets of Lagos this week, hailing the city’s remarkable transformation while embracing its rich fashion heritage. The global icon, known for hits like “Goodies” and “Level Up,” arrived for the 15th anniversary of Lagos Fashion Week and a guided cultural tour, turning heads in traditional Adire attire that blended her superstar flair with Nigerian artistry.

Accompanied by Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Ciara kicked off her visit with a warm welcome that set the tone for an immersive adventure. The tour, organized in collaboration with Lagos Tourism, took her through the bustling heart of Africa’s most populous city, spotlighting its evolution from a chaotic urban hub to a polished beacon of progress. “I’m so happy to be here,” Ciara beamed in a viral video, her excitement palpable as she marveled at the changes since her last trip.

Gone are the days of dusty, cluttered roads that once defined her first impressions of Lagos, Ciara shared. “Now I see paved streets everywhere, it’s clean, it’s beautiful,” she gushed, crediting local efforts for the visible upgrades in infrastructure and cleanliness. Her words struck a chord with residents and fans alike, who flooded social media with praise for the government’s strides in urban renewal. One netizen quipped, “Finally, a global star sees the real glow-up!”

Dressed in a stunning Adire ensemble, hand-dyed indigo fabric adorned with intricate Yoruba patterns, Ciara didn’t just tour; she honored.

The singer, who has long championed empowerment through style, used the outing to spotlight local designers. At the Onalaja Official showcase during Fashion Week, she paired up with influencer Chi-Chi in looks from the Nigerian label, seamlessly weaving her birthday vibes into the event’s creative pulse.

Ciara’s embrace of Adire went beyond aesthetics; it was a nod to sustainable fashion and cultural preservation. Adire, a time-honored craft from southwestern Nigeria, represents resilience and storytelling through textile. By donning the fabric, Ciara amplified its global appeal, drawing attention to artisans who keep the tradition alive amid modern trends. “Lagos is Africa’s creative capital,” she declared, urging visitors to dive into its art, rhythm, and unfiltered energy.

Ciara’s visit underscores Lagos’ magnetic pull on international icons, from Cardi B’s 2019 escapades to Stefflon Don’s frequent jaunts. For a city often stereotyped, her endorsement feels like a love letter, inviting the world to witness its heartbeat.

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Fashionista

DOS Marks 15 Years of Timeless Elegance with an Intimate Legacy Dinner

by Women Times on

For DOS, the Legacy Dinner was a beautiful reflection of fifteen years of creativity, style, sisterhood, and storytelling through fashion.

Hosted in the intimate warmth of the DOS Lekki store, located at 55a Akintunde Adeyemi Drive, Lekki, the womenswear brand founded by Debola Obanikoro, the evening gathered fashionistas, Influencers, loyal clients, and women who have, in one way or another, been part of the brand’s remarkable journey.

From Elizabeth Elohor to Diana Eneje, Style Connoisseur, Ify Okoye, Ifeoma Odogwu, Chika Uwazie, Onyeka Michael Agwu, and more gracefully hosted by Ozinna Anumudu, the event was filled with laughter, connection, and shared pride in a brand that has quietly defined Nigerian fashion for over a decade.

From the warm candlelight to the beautifully dressed tables adorned with florals, every detail told a story of grace and craftsmanship. Guests were treated to a five-course culinary experience by Tash Bistro, perfectly curated to complement the evening’s mood.

Between courses, stories and laughter flowed easily as guests reminisced about the pieces they’ve worn and the moments that made DOS more than a brand, a shared experience of womanhood and timeless pieces.

It wasn’t just a dinner, it was a toast to 15 years of vision, craft, and community.

The highlight of the evening came when Debola Obanikoro, founder and creative director of DOS, shared a few heartfelt words about the brand’s 15-year journey, from its modest beginnings to becoming a household name in Nigerian fashion, and now expanding its story to London.

Her message was simple yet powerful:

“DOS has always been about more than clothes; it’s about women, identity, and storytelling”.

Every woman in the room, from loyal clients to friends of the brand, represented a piece of that legacy.

Staying relevant in fashion for 15 years takes more than beautiful designs, it takes consistency, purpose, and resilience. DOS has stayed true to its DNA through changing trends and evolving markets, continuing to tell stories of strength, femininity and understated confidence.

Through the years, DOS has built a community, not just of customers, but of women who see themselves reflected in every collection, every silhouette, and every detail.

As the evening drew to a close, guests clinked glasses to the next chapter, *The DOS Lekki Store Launch, on Sunday, 26 October,* at 55A Akintunde Adeyemi Drive, Lekki, a shopping experience that promises to usher in a new era for the brand. One story, one woman, one design at a time.

Fifteen years on, DOS remains a symbol of grace, growth, and grit, proof that true legacy isn’t just built, it’s worn.

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Fashionista

Ebettz Fashion and Accessories Unveils “The Unapologetic” Collection: Redefining Confidence and Style

by Women Times on

Ebettz Fashion and Accessories, a leading name in premium e-fashion renowned for its daring fusion of sophistication, edge, and empowerment, has unveiled its latest collection, “The Unapologetic.”

Sourced directly from top designers worldwide, this new lineup features striking statement pieces designed to inspire confidence, celebrate individuality, and embody strength. Every item has been carefully curated to ensure women receive the highest quality and style, allowing them to look commanding and feel authentically themselves.

More than just apparel, “The Unapologetic” signifies a movement for women who own their uniqueness and approach every situation with authority. The collection showcases sharp tailoring, elegant silhouettes, and timeless accessories—each piece a testament to attitude, identity, and bold self-expression.

Under the mantra “Act like a Lady. Dress like a Boss,” Ebettz continues to revolutionize fashion retail by offering high-end, designer-quality pieces through a seamless online shopping experience. Known for its commitment to originality and empowering style, the brand remains a trusted destination for women seeking to make a statement with their fashion choices.

The “Unapologetic” collection is now available exclusively at www.ebettzfashion.com.ng.

About Ebettz Fashion and Accessories
Ebettz Fashion and Accessories is a premium e-fashion brand that sources and curates designer-quality clothing and accessories for women. With a commitment to originality and empowerment, the brand ensures every woman can stand out confidently and
unapologetically. Operating under its powerful slogan, “Act like a Lady. Dress like a Boss,” Ebettz continues to merge edge and elegance, redefining modern fashion for women everywhere.

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Fashionista

Empowering Through Style: How Omidiora Titilayo is Redefining Nigerian Fashion from Ibadan

by Women Times on

For Omidiora Titilayo Alice , the founder and Creative Director of Blaze Seam Fashion house located in Ibadan the Capital city of Oyo state, Fashion is part of her soul . But unlike other Fashion designers, her mission is to help people especailly fashion enthusiasts to express their individuality and confidence through intentional styling and timeless designs.

The Ibadan based designer who has successfully carved herself a niche in Nigeria’s fashion industry said she aim to tailor her brand to specifically suit and compliment Nigerians , while remaining stylish yet comfortable, functional and affordable.

Before venturing into Fashion World, Titilayo had a stint in modeling while she was a student of University of Ibadan .According to her , Blaze Seam was born out of a passion she had nurtured while studying and modeling

She said “The Brand idea came up when i was modeling for fashion brands and then began crafting pieces during school breaks.The rest is now history . My aim is to shift away from Western-centric fashion styles and norms, i want to put a Pan Nigeria/African clothing needs with versatile fabrics and fits, where it will be acceptable and accomodated globally..

When asked about her unique selling point, She smiled and said ” Sometimes last year , we decided to think outside the box by shifting from the industry style of focusing only on branding for a particular gender . At the moment, my brand is gradually gaining huge followership among the male folks beacuse of our unique style of making Vintage.Shirts and the rest .”

Born to a family of Five children where she’s the only female child . , the award winning entrepreneur who has won several fashion awards believe Nigerias Fashion industry is the place to be due to the economic growth and development activities taking place.”There are lot of opportunities in the industry , we are just scrathing the surface. Famous Fashion designers are trooping in to different countries in Africa daily to seek for new ideas and styles .one only needs to get into it with full confidence.” she disclosed . This could mean – as a next step – expanding her business, and providing high-quality clothing across Nigeria and beyond .

With its headquarter in Ibadan, Blaze Seam have showcased its brand in several runways and Fashion shows in Nigeria including the famous Ibadan Ankara Fiesta . .The Brand is expected to participate in the forthcoming Swiss/Nigeria beauty and Fashion exhibition where she aim to expand her clientele outside south west part of Nigeria to other part of Nigeria and beyond.

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LifestyleFashionista

Khadijat Wahab Redefines Standards with Wakaddy Empire’s New Collection, GLEAM

by Women Times on

 

 

In a bold stride towards reshaping the fashion industry, Wakaddy Empire proudly presents its latest collection, GLEAM, under the creative direction of Khadijat Wahab. Established in July 2015, Wakaddy Empire has consistently pushed boundaries, and this new release promises to be a testament to its innovative spirit.

At the heart of this groundbreaking collection lies Khadijat’s amazing approach to design. With a focus on inclusivity and diversity, she spearheads the brand’s ethos of embracing all body types through the pioneering concept of “what waist.” This technique ensures that garments are expertly crafted to celebrate the beauty of every individual, setting Wakaddy Empire apart as a trailblazer in the fashion realm.

Khadijat’s impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail have earned Wakaddy Empire acclaim from esteemed clientele, including icons like Kika Osunde, Chioma Ikokwu, Gbemi O., Mrs Nosa Okubo, Tiwa Savage, Chidinma Ikile, Stephanie Coker, and many others. These collaborations underscore the brand’s reputation for excellence and its ability to resonate with discerning fashion enthusiasts.

The launch of this new collection, GLEAM, which basically translates to radiating with confidence and elegance, signifies a significant milestone for Wakaddy as it continues to redefine norms and set new standards in the fashion landscape. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, quality, and inclusivity, the brand reaffirms its position as a frontrunner in the global fashion arena.

Wakaddy Empire invites fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters alike to immerse themselves in the allure of its latest creations. From statement pieces exuding elegance to versatile designs transitioning seamlessly from day to night, the GLEAM collection promises something for every lady.

As Khadijat unveils her latest creations in the GLEAM collection, she celebrates individuality, style, and self-expression.

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Fashionistas Set To Be Thrilled, As Lagos Fashion Fair Holds Sept. 7- 9

by Women Times on

…As Organisers Urge Govt to use Fashion Industry to boost Economic Growth

 

Ayodeji Olugbade, Chief Executive Atlantic Exhibition Ltd has said that fashion Industry is one of the sectors that the Government can use to support and boost the nation’s economic growth.

He disclosed this during an interview with pressmen on the forthcoming Lagos Fashion Fair billed for Eko hotel, Lagos between Sept 7th to 9th, 2022.

Mr Olugbade noted that ” Lagos Fashion Fair 2022 in partnership with Africa Fashion Week Nigeria will feature Masterclass with Toyin Lawani , renowned Tiannah’s Empire couture.

In her own contribution, Princess Ronke Ademiluyi, Founder Africa Fashion Week Nigeria stated that ” govt should focus on using fashion as another non oil export to grow our nation’s GDP”.

She added that ” our creative talents are already translating the fashion sector into wealth creation”.

Princess Ademiluyi added that ” Lagos Fashion Fair and Africa Fashion Week Nigeria fusion offer an opportunity for creative designers, fashion professionals, stylists, retailers , models, trend setters and consumers to buy wholesale , shop at discounted rate, interact, network and build business relationships with Nigeria and International exhibitors and visitors.”

Mr Ayodeji Olugbade noted that ” this year’s bumper exhibition packages will feature fashionistas, importers from Europe, Asia exporters and their Nigeria counterparts with loads of activities: shopping, runways, shows, musical performances, celebrities appearances, and celebration of fashion icons”.

He further disclosed that ” Lagos Fashion Fair has attained over 3,000 exhibitors, 35,000 visitors, 35 speakers, 84 large procurement buyers, 69.9 % business networking opportunities and 84% follow up meetings”

” Lagos Fashion Fair and Africa Fashion Week fusion platform is where creative Nigerian fashion designers and entrepreneurs will further connect with intl designers after the Covid-19 disruption to showcase the beauty and creativity of both world through their designs and innovations” he stated.

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Bb. Pilipinas International Hannah Arnold backs Invent School Program of DOST

by Women Times on
Newly-crowned Binibining Pilipinas International 2021 Hannah Arnold expressed her gratitude to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for congratulating her and acknowledging her advocacy.

In a virtual press conference almost a week after winning the national pageant, Arnold revealed that among the projects of DOST, she loves the Invent School Program the most, where students create ideas and inventions while the agency helps them through workshops.

“I want to say thank you to the Department of Science and Technology for watching the coronation night and for acknowledging that we truly do need scientists’ help to prevent another pandemic,” said Arnold, who is an Applied Science in Forensic Studies graduate from the University of Canberra.

According to the beauty queen, the government program encourages students to continue developing inventions that may be vital in preventing future disasters and problems such as the pandemic.

Arnold hopes that she can have a chance to visit the students during her reign.

“They [students] go through a workshop with them [DOST] to encourage them to keep on going and to prevent future issues, disasters. I heard that the applications closed yesterday so maybe with my reign, I can visit these students and see what they are making,” she quipped.

On social media, DOST congratulated Arnold for raising the science and technology flag on the pageant stage.

“Thank you, Ms. Hannah Arnold for proudly raising the S&T flag and for encouraging the young generations to pursue a career in science,” the post said.

“Let’s bring more science and technology presence in the international stage, even in beauty pageants.”

Arnold, on the other hand, was happy that her science degree helped show that pageant candidates are more than just a pretty face.

“I am so glad they really acknowledged it and showed that we all have beautiful backgrounds wherein [there is an] infinite variability of women, we have a lot to bring. We can also balance being a scientist and a beauty queen,” she added.

Arnold will represent the country in Miss International 2021, which is set to be held in Japan in November.

Source: ABS News

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FashionistaBeautyEntertainment

Kendall Jenner Makes a Bold Fashion Statement as She Returns to Runway

by Women Times on

Kendall Jenner the supper model has made her return to the runway for the Jacquemus Paris fashion show on Wednesday, June 30. The keeping up with the Kardashians star stunned in a hot pink ensemble, baring her midriff in fitted trousers paired with a matching mini bralette and cropped button up cape shirt. She even donned full-arm red gloves to accentuate the couture look.

“good to be back!” Kendall wrote on Instagram yesterday, adding, “thank youuuu @jacquemus @pg_dmcasting.”

Kendall’s BFF Fai Khadra captured Kendall’s catwalk, adding “ayeee” to his Instagram Stories. The 818 Tequila founder reposted Fai’s video, writing “friendship” beneath the snapshot.

Designer Simon Porte announced ahead of the show, “After such a particular year, I wanted to gather people inside and share a fashion moment together.” The Jacquemus show was dubbed “La Montagne” in honor of the mountain terrain design inspiration.

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BeautyEntertainmentFashionistaLifestyleUncategorized

“I’m having the best time of my Life”- Rabiya Mateo

by Women Times on

Two weeks after the Miss Universe pageant, Rabiya Mateo says she’s happier and more relaxed.

In an interview with Boy Abunda on Sunday, May 30, Rabiya opened up about her pageant experiences and her plans after Miss Universe 2020.

“Sobrang saya (I’m so happy), I can say that I’m more relaxed now. Wala na ‘yung pressure (there’s no more pressure) and burden on my back. I’m just having the best time of my life,” she said.

Rabiya said she learned how to “enjoy the moment” and to “love myself even better now” because of the competition. But the Philippine representative could not help but recall how tough her pageant experience was.

“What I’ve been through has never been easy. I know it’s gonna be hard but not as hard as what happened in the competition. It was a test of character and a test of faith,” she said.

Trial by fire

“From the moment I won Miss Universe Philippines until the Miss Universe competition, binugbog ako (I was beaten up) emotionally, mentally. I tried to be strong and hold myself together,” Rabiya began.

The 24-year-old Iloilo native recalled that she wasn’t prepared for the pageant drama and intrigue. “[I was] someone who is so naive, that was my first time to join a national competition. Kahit sinasabihan ka na ‘you need to prepare for this, for that’ once na dumating ka sa point na ‘yun, magugulat ka pa din.’” 

“Even the moment I won, I didn’t have that sweet victory. The day that I was crowned, that joy was taken away from me. Iniisip ko lang, ang dami ko talagang pinagdaanan (I just realized that I went through a lot),” she said.

“I’m not even sure how to express myself, how to react. With all the negative thoughts, I’m not even sure if I did an interview and shared my side of the story, it will tell the truth,” she said.

“I didn’t want to add fuel to the fire. I tried to keep as quiet as I could. I tried to continue my journey even though inside I was falling apart.”

Looking back, Rabiya said that the choice to keep quiet was the right thing to do. “I have the organization with me, they defended me to the public. That was the best thing to deal with the issue,” she added.

“When I won, I didn’t feel like a winner… Ang daming tinapon na hindi ko magawang ipagtanggol ang sarili ko (There were so many comments and I couldn’t even defend myself,)” she said.

Rabiya said the most hurtful remark accusations that she was a mistress. “I was raised by a single mother, lahat-lahat nang pinagdaanan ko, pinaghirapan ko ‘yun (Everything I achieved, I worked hard for it). I have my moral values with me.”

Rabiya said she chose to see the experience in a positive light. “It needed to happen. I need to be stronger for Miss Universe. Isa rin ‘yung sa mga rason kung bakit ako gustong makilala ng mga tao (That issue made more people curious about me),” she said.

Miss Universe performance

After her top 21 miss universe pageant,Rabiya admitted that she was initially disheartened by the results.

“When I didn’t get called in the Top 10, nanlamig ako. ‘Yun na ‘yon? (I was shaken. That was it?) Months of sacrifices and hanggang doon na lang ako (That was the end for me)?.  I was crying,” she narrated.

Rabiya said she realized that all candidates put in so much efforts for the pageant. “I cannot discredit them… [the crown] just wasn’t meant for me. Sa position naman ng judges, hindi ako ‘yung hinahanap nila that night (I didn’t fit the criteria the judges were looking for). I truly understand. I was just thankful na nakapasok pa rin ako sa Top 21 (that I still got in the Top 21).”

Rabiya admitted the expectations got to her. “I was so afraid to fail, I needed to please the Filipinos, I needed to sacrifice a lot of things… I even asked myself ‘Is this even worth of everything?’”

She confessed that she started to self-loathe during the competition. “I had life coaching sessions just to get through this kind of thing,” she said.

Aside from the pressure to do better, Rabiya said she was also constantly compared to other personalities. “I want to be free, I want to be able to express myself without being compared to other beauty queens. I am Rabiya, I am not anybody else,” she said.

“It’s difficult to be in that position pero alam ko na binigay ko ‘yung lahat (I gave my all),” Rabiya said. She added that despite the results, she still considers herself blessed to meet nice and supportive people in her Miss Universe journey.

“Kahit hindi ko naiuwi ‘yung korona after the competition, I feel loved by the Filipinos. It wasn’t a perfect performance pero nakita pa rin nila at appreciate nila ‘yung efforts na nagawa ko.”

(I wasn’t able to bring home the crown but I feel loved by Filipinos. It wasn’t a perfect performance but they saw and appreciated all my efforts.)

Plans after Miss Universe

Now that the Miss Universe pageant competition is over, Rabiya said she’s decided to stay in the United States for a while.

“That was my favor to the organization, if I can stay a little bit longer. Since this is my first time to stay out of the country, I really want to make memories, meet people, and I’m planning to look for my dad… I’m positive I’m gonna meet him, ” she shared.

Rabiya said that she doesn’t hold a grudge against her father. “He abandoned us for 19 years but I still love him and I still long for him.”

She added that their family situation molded her to be a strong woman. “He built me to be a queen and to build my empire, I’m thankful for that.”

Rabiya said she might not be joining pageants anytime soon. “Let’s give it like two years, let’s see. I’m not closing any doors,” she said.

However, Rabiya said she has plans to enter the entertainment industry. “I wanted to try showbusiness. I might go into acting, I’m gonna talk to management. In the coming days, I’m gonna sign up for a network,” she shared.

Rabiya added that she’s also looking forward to her homecoming in Iloilo. She said she’s planning to go back to the Philippines around July 2021.

Source: Rappler.com

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EntertainmentFashionista

Stop Asian hate: Says Bernadette Belle Wu Ong

by Women Times on

 

Posting the look to Instagram, the contestant wrote the following in the caption: “What is this platform for if I can’t use it to send a strong message of resistance against prejudice and violence! Thank you #MissUniverse for giving me this opportunity! My national costume is inspired by Singapore’s National Flag—it symbolises unity for all and social harmony in a multi-racial, multi-cultural and inter-religious country.”

Her collaborators on the dress, Meriales and Espinosa, echoed Ong’s message. “What made me say yes? It’s not just a national costume,” wrote Meriales. “It’s a statement and protest to stop Asian hate. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of such a cause.”

Ong’s look certainly sends a powerful statement, following a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes over the past year, and is especially timely as it is also currently AAPI Heritage Month. Given that Miss Universe has been no stranger to controversy in the past, with incidents of racism both against and involving previous contestants, Ong’s outfit made for a refreshing change. The look was even celebrated on Instagram by the likes of Diet Prada, who wrote “we’ll definitely be keeping an eye on this one!” We certainly agree.

Source: Vogue

 

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