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LOVE IN THE AIR(1)

STYLISH COUPLES

When we decided to come up with this edition’s cover, it was surprising to note that there are actually not that many couple who dress as good as each other. It

was either one-sided, the male or female. So l hope the 10 we chose, meet up to your expectations. But looking good together, albeit lovely, is not the only

criteria that makes a successful union. Even though they look good together on the outside, it takes a lot more than that to stand the test of time, sustain and maintain a good marriage which l am sure the couples are well aware of as a union. They not only look good, they have found their balance and compliment each other.

I’m not one to preach it especially when l have never done it but l do know marriage takes a lot of hard work to succeed and l admire those who have done

several decades together. One of the cutest things l love to see are couples in their 70s and 80s who have been together for over five decades or more. A friend

of mine is always telling me about his parents who are both in their 80s now. It is so endearing to hear their squabbles and petty irritations about each other. The dad thinking

the mum is over dramatic and the mum thinking he is too demanding. What this simply tells one is that after a while, our parents become like our children and you now begin to settle their issues as you silently roll your eyes at their petty complaints but secretly admire their strong bond together as a couple who have been with each other for several decades. What is most fascinating is when you look at pictures of them when they were young and vibrant, full of life. You then look at this aging couple before you and cannot but truly appreciate their existence knowing that each day they spend with you is very special regardless of how demanding they are of your attention. In terms of fashion, some of our parents have ornaments and attires that have been recycled and are actually back now - vintage pieces that we now cherish so much - these items are more appreciated because of their sentimental value and unique style. The wardrobe of a grandparent who was stylish in the 50s and 60s is the treasure trove of today. True style, as we all know, is inborn.

Those who have it, wear it well like the couples we spoke about.

THISDAY STYLEFASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

RUTH OSIME

EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

EDITOR DIGITAL KONYE NWABOGOR

STYLE CORRESPONDENT MOJISOLA ALLEN

STYLE CORRESPONDENT SAFINA MOHAMMED

SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG

CONTRIBUTORSRUKY SALAKO

JULIET ALUAYODEJI ROTINWA

PHOTOGRAPHERTY BELLO

DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION. CHUKS ONWUDINJO

08111847085

08111847086

08111847087

08116759745

07054965500

08077092196

FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

When we thought of this concept, quite a few names sprung to mind but individuals, not as couples. A stylish couples’ moment is actually a hard thing to sync. The two individuals have to be distinct yet complementary; original yet classic; and most of all, own their own style and not be in the shadow of their partner. Below are 10 power-dressing couples that are in love and in style that have made it on our fashionable couple style list.

CONTENTFashion90’S TAKEOVERPG 6

5 FUN WAYS TO WEAR MONOCHROMEPG 8-9

5 MINUTES WITH ABIOLA MATESUNPG 17

TULLE SKIRT OVERLOAD FOR 2019

PG 18-19

BUSINESS CASUAL SHOES

EVERY MAN SHOULD OWNPG 20-21

OVER 40 AND STILL FABULOUS

PG 22

Society

THE BCX ENDYEAR PARTYPG 4

DAMILOLA OLADINIWEDS ADEWALEODUWOLEPG 5

BCX, an end-to-end technology solution provider in Nigeria, recently hosted staff and guests to a sumptuous end of year party in Lagos. The event, which had an old school theme, was held at Landmark Tower in Victoria Island and had in attendance a select audience of key players in the ICT sector.

THE BCX END YEAR PARTY

OSILOWO

BY KO N Y E C H E L S E A N WA B O G O R

DAMILOLA OLADINI WEDS ADEWALE

ODUWOLE

DAMILOLA & ADEWALE ODUWOLE(GROOMS PARENT) ADEWALE & OLUFUNMILAYO ODUWOLE

(BRIDE’S PARENT) OMOOBA CHRISTOPHER OLUFEMI & OLORI OLAKITAN WELLINGTON OLADINI

(GROOM’S SIBLING) YEMI ODUWOLE

(GROOM’S SIBLINGS) WALE, DOYIN & NIYI ODUWOLE

KOLE ADEMULEGUN, GBOLAHAN FUNSO & ALEX O. ONABANJO

MR & MRS HAKEEM ADEWEMIMO

BRIDE’S MAIDS

DAMOLA & BOLAJIKOLE ADEMULEGUN

OBA LATEEF ADAMS & OLORIKUNLE ADEDAYO & JIMI BADEMOSI

The families of Omooba Christopher Oladini and Dr. Eng. Adewale Oduwole recently played hosts to family, friends, dignitaries and well-wishers who were in attendance to celebrate and support the families as they joined their daughter Damilola Oladoyin and son Adewale Oluwaseun (respectively) in holy matrimony at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, City Of David, Victoria Island. An exquisite reception party was held at LandMark Centre, Victoria Island with special music performance by KWAM 1 who held the newly weds and crowd spellbound with his legendary hits.

AYO ADEGBOYE

OSITA AND RITAMR & MRS LADIPO-AJAI

BCX STAFF

CALEB OJIMADU & LILIAN TILLEY GYADO FOLAKE OGUNLEYE

LEKANYINKA IDOWU

GREGORY

PEKUN ADENIYI MORENIKE & ISIOMA

YEMI ADEGBOYE

JULIA OBASI

LLOYD ONAGHINON M.C SHAKARA

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

The saying “What goes around comes around” may be intended to describe karma but it also works perfectly to explain the fashion cycle. Trends and styles that were once considered modern and audacious become old and uncool, only to be reborn and re-worn decades later. And that cycle seems to be turning quicker than ever. Less than 20 years later, fashion that was considered cool in the ’90s is cool once again. Whether it’s on the catwalk, on the street or in the stores, the ’90s trends are appearing everywhere. So, embrace those crop tops, chokers and Doc Martens, and we’ll show you the modern way to rock them. Here is our guide to ’90s fashion and how to wear it today.

’s

9

HOOP EARRINGSHoop earrings had a major moment during the 90’s. Worn by women everywhere, these ring-shaped earrings added attitude to plenty of outfits. The only rule while wearing this sassy jewellery item was to make them as big as possible. After all, what’s the point in wearing jewellery, if it doesn’t make a statement?

CROP TOPSTo wear the ’90s look in 2019, a crop top is a must-have. These midriff-baring tops were an essential fashion item for ladies living in the ’90s and are on-trend once again. Today, you can relive the best fashion from the decade by pairing a crop top with a pair of mom jeans. This chic combination is a favourite of celebrities and street style stars alike. To make the look modern, just swap cropped camisoles for short t-shirts, sweaters and tank tops.

CHOKERSWhen it came to accessories in the ’90s, chokers were “it”. These collar-like necklaces sat tightly around the neck and added an edgy element to outfits. While many were made of stretchy plastic and designed to resemble a tattoo, others boasted a fabric construction and featured charms and jewels. Chokers are well and truly back in fashion now and can provide a range of outfits with a chic ’90s touch.

OVERALLSIf you lived through the

’90s, the chances are that you wore overalls. These

sleeveless denim jumpsuits were an essential fashion

item for the decade and worn by both ladies and

gents everywhere. No longer just for farmers, the ’90s

made overalls a casual and comfortable wardrobe staple.

To rock this look in pure ’90s style, try partnering a pair of

classic blue overalls with a crop top and sneakers or a

pair of heels.

FLARED JEANSLong before skinny jeans were everyone’s go-to denim style, flared and wide-leg designs reigned supreme. Thanks to a preference for oversized and loose silhouettes, these pants were highly favoured during the ’90s. Their casual aesthetic made them perfect for daywear, but these must-have pants were also on show at night with crop tops. To rock flared jeans today, consider selecting a cropped style to give this look a modern update.

SEYI SHAY

DERIN ODUGBESAN-THOMAS

SAI SANKOH

LOLA OJETOLA

LISA FOLAWIYO

6

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019S T Y L E & D E S I G N

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

The comedy in our trajectory is our inability to view our narratives without rose coloured spectacles.

We can deceive ourselves enh..We are quick to notice the bloodshot eyes of

others whilst ours is dripping with slime. Our venomous outpour may one day drown us if we are not careful walahi....you may think it’s sauce.....lailai it’s bile.

When you decide to make yourself judge and jury over the life of others, you need to realise that even though you do not down their brand of poison, yours is just as lethal.

Work on a better YOU and give the world the privilege of enjoying the CHANGE you bring to the table.

Our tori plenty so tay, we adopt dissemblance, we need to stop the nonsense and “borrow ourselves brain” whilst

trying to ensure that we live lives worthy of emulation.We must reduce the time we spend in the market

square listening to its unending chatter and concentrate on the acquisition of life building materials.

Wisdom does not fail in its application when we apply rationally rather than employ emotions to sieve our projections.

If perchance you find someone in this freezing cold who is prepared to cover your nakedness and

provide a blanket for the horrendous chill, hold on tight because you have just found a kindred spirit

and they are few out there.It’s always safe to “paddle your own canoe”

as the hidden holes in the boats of others will sink you.

Life is complex no doubt but learn to trust the voice within, as she is your best friend

through all of the vicissitudes you’re slapped with.Daily introduce “you” to “self” as you need to build

confidence, you are on this journey for a reason, traverse mindfully as mindlessness serves no purpose.

It’s important that we do not crease our dreams with the roughened hands of others.Trust your instinct and marry your ability to mobility, you cannot waste time romancing inertia, race like you’re starved of time but take time to exhale whilst drawing strength from kith and kin.

It’s a new year, but don’t be fooled by its neoteric nature as she is as old as the titanic in its lessons and as fast as light.

Ponder on your detours and speed breakers and thank your Creator for your progression, muse on the pockets of turbulence and be grateful that you have not become collateral damage. Take time to refuel so as not to lose steam.

You are relevant, you are important, spread your essence, let everyone enjoy your awesome fragrance, let your will make a way for you through strength of spirit, you are a solution to somebody’s problem, stop knocking yourself.

I celebrate you as you come into your own and blossom. Rev your engine with the oil of engagement, welcome to life.

CAPSULESAlero Adolloaleroadollo@yahoo.com

FUN WAYS TO WEAR MONOCHROME

The monochrome trend is one of the most influential fashion trends to date, and it is one that will never go out of style as it is not only so easy to pull off but also flattering for every body shape and skin colour. Keep reading to find out how to inject some fun into this classic trend.

BY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGORAd

d a S

plash of Colour

Add a New Element

Mon

ochrome Prints

Play

With

Shap

es and Styles

Fabr

ics

With Textures

OLA

ALERO

JALISA

STELLA UZO

RANTI

Monochrome looks can be elevated with a splash of colour as we sometimes see on the runway. But an easier way to introduce colour is with accessories like a colourful pair of shoes, a statement coat or a bright clutch.

Because these colours are mainstays, it can be easy to fall into a style routine that can leave your outfit looking flat. It’s okay to be a little repetitive from time to time, but the key with wearing monochrome is to always try to factor in a new element that references trends in order to keep the look fresh.

Adding prints can also elevate a monochrome outfit from basic to chic, so try for simple prints like stripes, checks and graphic abstract prints to give your outfit that little something extra.

With a monochromatic palette, it’s also important to focus on shapes and styles as your silhouette can determine if your look appears fun and trendy.

Wearing only black and white tones can become monotonous so keep things interesting by introducing texture to your look. Choosing fabrics of varying textures will not only create dimension but will give your look a luxe feel.

8 9

S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

THISDAY Style February 3, 2019

Follow the Nigerian elections of 2019www.arise.tv

41644519

#arise&voteARISE NEWS ANCHORS// FRONT ROW L-R: IDIA AISEN; OJI OKPE BACK ROW L-R: MODELE SHARAFA YUSUF; OLANIYI OYELOWO; ARON AKEREJOLA; VICTORIA PEPPL E; NDEE AMAUGO; MAERCY AJISAFE; ADESUWA OMORUAN, REUBEN ABATI; VERONICA ODEKA

2019

LOVE IN THE AIR

STYLISH COUPLESWhen we thought of this concept, quite a few names sprung to mind but individuals,

not as couples. A stylish couples’ moment is actually a hard thing to sync. The two

individuals have to be distinct yet complementary; original yet classic; and most

of all, own their own style and not be in the shadow of their partner. Below are

10 power-dressing couples that are in love and in style that have made it on our

fashionable couple style list.

Dilly and Fifi Umenyiora are undeniable a handsome pair and also one of our favourite fashionable couples. While out and about or making their red carpet rounds, they never disappoint with their complimenting styles. He is suave and handsome and she is just as stunning in her well put together attires.

Adesua is blessed with a stunning figure and good height to go with it. So much so, that anything she wears fits her perfectly. Elegant and always sexy and glamorous. Her husband Uzoma always compliments her in his sharply cut suits not to mention his trademark black, which exemplifies their impeccable taste. Effortlessly cool is their trademark.

Both Titi and Bimbo have imposing heights and always draw attention when they appear anywhere together. Titi has a strong sense of style because she is sultry, sexy and always pushes the envelope with an added twist to her dressing and Bimbo is forever suave and well put together in his attires, be it formal or native. It’s hard to find a couple where both people are style connoisseurs in their own right, but the Ogunbanjos not only shine individually, but also set trends together. They make looking good easy and fun.

Usually, when a man is such a sharp dresser, one would assume he would constantly overshadow his partner. Korede sure knows how to put himself together with his exceptionally well cut suits not to mention being brave enough to add the odd flash of colour now and again. His astute eye for unique accessories and dandy attires makes him stand out in the style stakes. But Arin is by no means a pushover herself as she gives equally as good as she gets with her svelte figure that clothes sit very well on. She too loves her well defined cuts and embraces anything that shows her silouhette in the best possible light.

The doyenne of style herself, Vivienne is easily one of the best dressed women in our shores. We did not think any man could step up to the plate with her but John has proven so because he is just as stylish and also pushes the envelope like his impeccably stylish wife. They are a delight to watch at events. This couple are so in sync, complimenting each other in love and fashion, proving their style credentials while out and about together with their head turning styles.

Their love for each other resonates more when you see how well they compliment each other with their sense of style. She is effortlessly sultry with a touch of innocence while he is dapper with a large dose of confidence. Her knight in shining armour. When they appear together, they create a magical fashion moment.

FIFI & DILLY UMENYIORA

ADESUA & BANKY

WELLINGTON

ADESUA & UZOMA DOZIE

TITI & BIMBO

OGUNBANJO

KOREDE & ARIN ROBERTS

VIVIENNE & JOHN SHITTU

C O V E R C O V E R

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

As a Nigerian living in the US, what did winning two Emmy awards mean to you ?

Winning an Emmy award is priceless. Winning two Emmy awards is indescribable. We were nominated in three categories with several other strong contenders and we won in two categories. I have seen a few great films not clinching a win, so winning two Emmy awards affirmed that our hard work paid off and our film was appreciated. It showed we were doing something right. As a Nigerian this gave me so much joy as it showcased not only the Emmy award win but also provided an opportunity for Nigeria to be portrayed in good light. Of course the positive validation of the win reinforced within us the desire to strive for even greater success.

What effect has being a recipient of this prestigious award had on your brand so far?

Malekfotofilms has over the years worked tirelessly to build a powerful brand in the film industry. Prior to us winning the Emmy award, we had won two Telly Awards for “ Fire and Ice” Winning the Emmy’s has broaden our horizons, differentiated our brand, positioned us stronger and also provided us a more credible voice. Everyone wants to work with who they can trust. Since winning the awards, we have found out that conversations are easier and quicker because people immediately feel more reassured and unguarded towards what to expect.

You started off as a photographer, at what point did you begin to see film and film making as a way of expression?

It all begun when I photographed a series on “ HIV, Poverty and Children”. I had met a 13 year old girl who had become an orphan as a result of HIV / AIDS. She resorted to prostitution to feed herself and her three younger siblings. There was also a lady that had lost her husband to HIV/AIDS who bluntly refused to stay at home and chose instead to sleep on the hospital floor for fear of dying alone. I was irked when photographs were unable to capture the true essence of these stories effectively. I felt a deep sense of frustration .That became my turning point. Experiences needed to be documented. I realized that storytelling was the most powerful medium and most effective means of expression.

At first, it was all about weddings , how did your career unfold?

Weddings will most likely always remain a part of Malekfotos. We enjoy documenting the love experiences shared by couples. Videos always provide them the opportunity to relive their special and unforgettable day. We are however mindful of the number of weddings we handle in a year and usually only accept a limited number. This is to enable us provide them with the best experience ever . Now with regards our growth, there is so much around you that as a filmmaker you want documented. You want to use your skills to make a difference in the world you live in. There are stories that are yet untold and information that have been buried. You want to give a voice to the voiceless. You want to

make great impact in the lives of others .You want to make a difference .You want to celebrate heroes and their achievements. You want to document the social sufferings and pain that others experience .You want to showcase to the world the hidden gems of cultures and traditions that haven’t been recognized. Being able to document any of such social projects is fulfilling, rewarding and highly satisfying for us. We just can’t stop. We are fully immersed with the unending passion to create such stories for the world to see and hear..

Were there any particular films or film makers that you admired?

I admire a number of filmmakers and the achievements they have made in the film industry. Internationally, we have such great inspiring filmmakers such as Christopher Nolan, James Cameron, Steven Spielberg and a list of others.. In Nigeria I admire the contributions that Kunle Afolayan , Mo Abudu , Genevieve Nnaji and KEMI Adetiba have made towards changing the narrative of the Nigerian film industry globally. Their action and the action of many other talented film makers has helped shape the positive perspective of the film industry in Nigeria and Africa.

When did you first conceive the idea of Inner Conflict? Inner conflict started simply as an idea in 2014. We all

at some point in our life’s struggle with inner conflicts. Decisions we have to make when confronted with key life issues or circumstances. “Inner conflict” is a short film about a professional boxer who experienced a series of life changing events within a short period of time. His mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer, he also had booked his biggest priced fight and then his wife was expecting their first baby. These roller coaster ride of

emotions posed to be his inner conflict that he had to deal with and overcome. A truly

captivating story.

How do you manage to find the perfect balance in making a

film both entertaining and profound at the same time?

There is no formula for creating a perfect balance. Making a good film requires a good concept and a whole lot of time and dedication. Your perception on how your audience will receive it also plays an important and determinant factor in ensuring you provide them with a story that is entertaining and profound at the same time.

What has been your personal key to success?Hard work and dedication

towards the end goal. There is an innate desire to keep setting

very high goals hence I always create vision boards which self propels me

each day to attain these goals. Once achieved, then new goals are set all over

again. Success is a journey and not a destination. You have to keep aiming high, breaking boundaries

and shedding off any limitations. The moment you stop daring to actualize your dream then you become irrelevant . In addition what I focus on and allow within my immediate space is highly crucial to my personal success. I surround myself with great minds, family and friends. I enjoy quiet times of fellowship and gaining great wisdom from God.

What are some common myths about your profession?

I will just highlight three myths here. 1. You need to go to film school to be a great filmmaker. 2. You need expensive paraphernalia to make a good story. 3. You can succeed alone.

What do you enjoy most about your job, your career?The ability to conceptualize an idea, translate it into a

film and then give it a life of it’s own is indeed the most rewarding aspect of what we do.

Any projects you’d like to let us in on?We are currently working on a few documentaries and

short films which unfortunately we cannot disclose to the public at the moment. We are excited about the projects and can’t wait to share this when it is all completed. Aiming even higher as always. Keep watching this space!

What would you like to say to young, independent filmmakers who are just starting out?

Be deliberate, focused and determined. If you say you are going to do something then do it. Don’t let anything stop you, not even your failures.. Dare to dream big.. take all Limits off..nothing is impossible to accomplish in life once you set your mind on it.. Look for opportunities everywhere and when you see it, seize it and maximize it. Lastly to create powerful experiences as a filmmaker; teamwork and collaboration is needed to succeed.

Minutes with

MATESUN ABIOLA 12

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34

5

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910

11Starting off as a photographer, Abiola Matesun decided to try his hands on film making as a way to properly document real life experiences. Two Emmy awards later, he has proved that a great deal of hard work and passion would take you anywhere. In this interview, he speaks to KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR on the projects he is currently working on and lets us in

on what he loves about the business of film making .

Fondly referred to as the Victoria and David Beckham of Nigeria, this couple are head-turners all the time. No matter the event, eclectic and sometimes avant-garde dressing, Reni always pushes the envelope, and Tunde is right beside her looking suave and sharp in his tastefully cut suits and well made native attires. As Reni owns one of the best fashion stores in Africa, ALARA, it’s not surprising that they have a very strong eye when it come to style.

This article cannot be complete without giving credit to whom it is due. The Ojoras have remained the epitome of style for over several decades and are showing no

sign of slowing down. Like fine wine, they get better with each passing day. He adorns the most complimenting native attires while she follows suit with her stunning choice of fabrics not to mention her jaw-dropping beautiful diamonds many women can only fantasize about. They are a living proof of a couple with impeccably good taste. This duo are still going strong in love and keeping their thumbs on the style button while at it.

There is nothing more regal than Otunba Balogun’s trademark white agbada and his lgold chains which he carries off superbly. And his wife, Olori’s colourful attires

and statement pieces in jewelry, is also a delight to watch. And even after several decades, they still have a commanding presence. His love for his wife has no bounds and he is quick to regale her with praises as she walks beside him majestically adorned in the finest of attires. Theirs is a testimony of the strength of love and adoration for each other.

Ifeyinwa is so beautiful it looks like she is turning the clock back as she ages gracefully. Always well put together in anything she adorns, her famous head gear is always a show stopper. She has never missed a step when it comes to her sense of style and has remained a head turner till date. Her husband Asue fits the term, tall, dark and handsome to the T. So dapper in his well cut suits and native attire, Asue also remains on top of his game in the style stakes. Definitely a handsome couple any time, any day. TUNDE & RENI

FOLAWIYO

KUNLE & OJUOLAPE OJORA

IFY & ASUE IGHODALO

SUBOMI & ABIMBOLA BALOGUN

C O V E R

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

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S T Y L E & D E S I G N THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

FOR 2019

Tulle skirts

look incredibly sophisticated long or

short. Just take a look at DABOTA LAWSON and tell us

why you won’t want to own a mini tulle skirt?!

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI & ISIOMA USIADE

Who says you have to be ballerina to wear tulle skirt? Exactly...nobody! Everyone, including bloggers, fashionistas, It-girls, Editors and many other fashion-influenced ladies are wearing them and they are a major fashion staple for 2019. It’s fair to say, the tulle skirt makes a fresh and high-style look and anyone can wear them. Join the 2019 band wagon and upgrade your wardrobe with the now ‘must-have’ Tulle Skirt.

Flowy and flirty,

the tulle skirt is a very attractive

option for that ultra feminine look

Super chic yet

elegant, a maxi layered tulle skirt paired with a chiffon black top is a cool vibe. This look is so versatile and can translate

to any fancy occasion that you might want to go.

tulle skirt overload Yellow

is fancy. For a bright but

fancy look, a mellow yellow is a great colour

to wear head to toe. We love how NANCY ISIME stuck

to one colour palette for her tulle skirt look and blocked it

with red accessories.

A white shirt, we repeat,

is a blank canvas to build on any outfit. The

tulle skirt looks absolutely stunning matched with this

white shirt

Didn’t we tell you

the tulle skirt was a vibe?! Don’t miss

out on owning this chic trendy skirt in 2019. Channel

you inner SADE AKINOSHO by replicating this look on your next

chance to play dress up.

SADE AKINOSHO

SIMIOA

NANCY ISIME

TOKE MAKINWA

DABOTA LAWSON

OG OKONKWO

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S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

OXFORDA lot of men make the mistake of thinking Oxford shoes can only be worn for formal occasions. However, that’s simply not true. When styled correctly, Oxfords can suit a variety of occasions, including those that have a business casual dress code. To wear Oxfords to work, pick a pair in black or brown leather. To ensure you don’t appear overdressed, be sure to avoid patent designs. Of course, if you’re still feeling a little too formal, you can always opt for the Oxford’s more casual cousin, the Derby.

MONK STRAPThe monk strap is sleek yet cool enough to take

you from 9 to 5 and beyond. Their formal

and sophisticated design ensures they’re appropriate

for the office while their unique and stylish appeal also means they can work

for after-work drinks and weekend events. When

shopping for monk straps, we’d suggest going for a

shiny leather design for a refined yet statement style.

EVERY MAN SHOULD OWN

There’s no denying that shoes

can have a huge impact on the overall

appearance of any outfit. So, when you’re aiming for a specific dress code,

carefully considered footwear is essential. For business casual

attire, that means picking a pair of shoes that appears both stylishly relaxed and suitably corporate. Thankfully, there are several styles that you can always rely on to give

your everyday officewear the easygoing polish it demands.

Add a pair of each of these business casual shoes to

your work wardrobe, and you’ll never be over or underdressed again.

SHOES

NICOY H

AKIN FAMINU

GABRIEL AKINOSHO CAESAR CHUKWUMA

DAVIDSON PETIT-FRÈRE

DAVIDSON OBENNEBO

KOREDE ROBERTS

DRESS BOOTSCasual clothing and street wear have been slowly creeping into the business world for some time now, so you shouldn’t shy away from adding an edgy pair of dress boots to your rotation. They can be a great way to let your personality shine through while keeping your look professional. From Chelsea and chukka styles to brogue and Derby designs, there is a lot of variety, so you shouldn’t struggle to find a pair to suit your style and dress code needs. Dress boots traditionally come in black, brown and tan. However, other colours are available. We’d suggest going for a muted shade and styling them with a slick pair of chinos, jeans or trousers.

CHELSEA BOOTSBoots may not be the first shoes that spring

to mind when you think about business casual footwear. However, they can actually be incredibly stylish and comfortable and can create an effortlessly refined look. We

aren’t saying you should break your Dr Martens out at work or formal events, but Chelsea boots make an excellent option.

They feature a round toe with elastic sides and can slip on and off quickly without laces

or a buckle. As such, they achieve a cleaner

aesthetic than other boots.

DERBYThe Derby is another classic

dress shoe style and an excellent addition to any

business casual wardrobe. Thanks to their timeless and

minimal design, Derbies work great with a wide

range of outfits. The key to making them look great in the office is to create

a balance with your outfit. To do so,

try wearing classic leather

styles with more

relaxed ensembles and suede

designs with more

formal looks.

LOAFERSIf you don’t already own a smart pair of loafers, it’s time to add some to your collection. These slip-on, laceless shoes are an essential item for any man and can easily be adapted to a business casual setting. To do so, try rocking a pair of brown or black leather loafers with chinos and a button-up business shirt. Just remember to keep your shirt tucked in and add a matching belt to ensure a suitably polished appearance for the office.

MONK STRAP

The monk strap is sleek

yet cool enough to take you from

9 to 5 and beyond. Their formal and

sophisticated design ensures they’re

appropriate for the office while their unique and stylish appeal also means they can work for after-work drinks

and weekend events. When shopping for monk straps, we’d

suggest going for a shiny leather design for a

refined yet statement style.

BUSINESS CASUAL

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

20 21

S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G N THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

THISDAY Style 683 Sunday, February 3, 2019

OVER

STILL

40

For a woman over 40, owning your style is not only a discipline that takes a little bit of work, but it’s also a powerful expression of who you are: a woman who’s

constantly learning, changing and growing (in age and in mind!). With the wisdom of knowing their bodies and the experience of seeing trends come and go, women over

these years, have a honed sense of style that we all can aspire to. For those who don’t, we have a few tips.

FBaUOUS

BY K

ON

YE C

HEL

SEA

NW

ABO

GO

R

Don’t Be Afraid To EvolveJust like you, your style will continue to evolve. Even if you’ve found your stride, think of dressing yourself everyday as not only an expression of who you are, your mood, your vibe, but also something that can constantly be tweaked, improved or updated.

Look For InspirationIf you do find that

you’re stuck in a rut

or aren’t feeling quite

like yourself in your

clothes, go online, flip

through magazines,

look at women you

admire on the street or

at work, and then start

to emulate their style.

Eventually, you’ll hit a

sweet spot where you’ll

just be dressing for you.

Demand The Perfect FitThis is a time when you can and should be aware of what to accentuate - and what not to. Wear what looks and feels great. Seek out pieces that fit beautifully and when in doubt, splurge on a great tailor. Clothes always look best when they fit you perfectly.

Continue To Take RisksWhether you’re happy in your comfort zone or doing a complete style overhaul, take some risks. We don’t mean dive head first into every trend you see, but it’s okay to shake things up a bit. Owning your style can also mean exploring! So, explore new colours, prints or even try on a bodycondress for a night out. Give yourself permission to push the boundaries of what you think you should wear.

VERONICA ODEKA

RITA DOMINIC

DAKORE AKANDE

SHAFFY BELLO

22

S T Y L E & D E S I G N