Kalakuta museum was the home of Late Legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. This place once housed his followers i.e. his band members and dancers. It doubles as his home as well as a studio where he does his music.
Fela Anikulapo Kuti was huge resistance to the government during his time. This made the then government send soldiers to destroy his house twice. So, the current Kalakuta republic museum is his 3rd house. Fela must have gotten his spirit of activism from his mother who was also a strong activist. She also fought for Nigerian independence.
After his death in 1997, his children, family, and fans decided to transform his house into a museum. This will be a place where lovers of Fela can keep his spirit alive. The name Kalakuta was coined from Fela Cell’s room “Calcutta” during the time he was in prison. Another place to visit in memory of Fela is the New Afrika Shrine.
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Kalakuta Museum gate fee and Location
Kalakuta museum is located at 7, Gbemisola Street, Ikeja. You can take a tricycle before you get to Ikeja under the bridge to the place. The place is very easy to find, a short walk from the Allen Avenue bus stop. The gate fee for entry to the museum is 1000 naira. The museum has a ground floor where you can souvenirs. Also, it has a rooftop bar where you can order food, drinks, and palm wine.
In other to access the rooftop, you will pay a fee of 1000 naira. This has to be done 24 hours before a visit to the bar through their Facebook page. Fela’s graveyard is just in front of the building. He died at the age of 53.
Facts about Kalakuta republic museum
After making payment at the reception, a tour guide gives a tour of the museum. He is trained to give tourists as much insight into Fela’s life which is the purpose of the museum. The tour starts off on the ground floor where some of his albums are explained.
The album that I found interesting was that called, “Confusion“. Here Fela describes Ojuelegba, Lagos state as a place of confusion. To date, this place can be really confusing. It has four roads branching off this bus stop and it is full of people. For me, Ojuelegba feels like the busiest place in Lagos.
Tour of his museum
There are pictures of Fela’s family, children, wives, concubines as well as a girlfriend at the Museum. The museum also has pictures of Fela as an actor in a movie that was destroyed. In memory of this Legend, Felabration takes place every year at his shrine.
This place is a few distances away from the museum. Fela’s room is still kept just the way he left it before his death. With well-arranged clothes on a rack, his bed, and pillows. One of Fela’s main instruments is a Saxophone. His Saxophone is still being kept in his room to date.
Kalakuta museum also preserved some memoirs from the life of Fela. His first marriage to his wife abroad, children as well as tours around the world. An article showing the political party Fela founded to run for the presidency is at the museum.
These phrases caught my eye, MOP is for the poor not for the rich. Fela stood for the poor and had so many followers under this party. His ideology was greatly influenced by his fraternity with Malcome X and a black panther.
After your tour at the museum, you also visit Johnson Jakande park at Ikeja. This park is not too far from Shoprite. Also, the Kalakuta museum has rooms available if you want to lodge. Click here to read other fun things to do in Ikeja, Lagos.
FAQ to know before visiting Kalakuta Museum
What is the history of Kalakuta Museum? How did it get its name? Fela Anikulapo names this museum after the time he spent in Prison. We all know Fela can charm and drive a change. So he and his cell mates held a communal cell named Kalakuta Republic hence the name.
How much is Kalakuta Museum gate fee? The gate fee into the museum is 1000naira per person. This fee gives you access to a tour of the museum by a tour guide.
Shopping new pieces for your fashion closet requires proper planning. To shop new clothes/accessories, you need to have an idea of the holes you need to fill in your closet. That is if your’re like me who sometimes feel you have too many tops with not enough pants or skirts to go with it. Also, you always need trendy pieces for your closet. Although , catching up with trends can be like a wild goose chase. There a lot of brands offering very trendy pieces both online or offline. But you have to ask yourself if they are affordable. Affordability is relative though. What is affordable for me may not be same for you. However, I always look out for brands whose product are both stylish and affordable before shopping from them. Here I will be sharing my 5 best affordable fashion brands to shop.
Tye-dye print dress from store333
Store333
One online fashion brand to shop for trendy pieces is Store333. It is an overseas brand that makes hand made traditional outfits; dresses, dancing skirts, tote bags, beach wears etc. You can shop stylish prints from this store at affordable prices. They also offer wholesale prices those who are looking to resell. As a African lady and lover of anything colorful, I love their tye-dye outfits most especially. Also, there are lovely beach wears for your beach hangout. For a day out to the beach, a simple style inspiration is to wear loose tye-dye print from the store. This look can be completed with a pair of sandals and a tote bag also from Store333. If you’re one that doesn’t mind rocking cross cultural outfits. There are traditional Indian apparels e.g. crop tops with matching dance skirts.
The best part is that you can shop with my code by clicking on Store333 for any stylish piece you want to get 10% off your purchase. Interestingly, this store always have other deals which is an opportunity to save and purchase trendy outfit for your closet. Check here to view discounts codes updates at store333.
Tote Bag
How to shop, customer service and Shipping
For us in Nigeria, shopping overseas brands online though convenient is sometimes pricey. In most cases, the shipping prices may be way too much compared to the cost of your entire cart. I love shopping online overseas brands and sometimes the shipping fee scares me off. Store333 offers affordable shipping rates to any country. In other to shop easily on store333 to Nigeria, you need to keep the following in mind. Due to challenges of the brand to get express shipping to African countries, the check out option has been disabled for these countries. However, you can still shop from this site to Nigeria at a flat rate of 10USD. Your product will be delivered to you through post within 20-25days. Also you can check out their shipping policy to check other rates.
Their customer service is quite okay. They are very responsive especially through their whatsapp line available on the site. You can ask any question from this line as they are very helpful with whatever you want. Although, this depends on the time differences of your current location.
All she needs
Every lady needs some statement pieces to part of her closet. Statement fashion items makes you look expensive. Another affordable fashion brand to shop is All she needs. All she need brand curate this statement fashionable pieces that affordable. It is a Nigerian based online brand. The brand is a one-stop shop for all a lady wants in fashion, beauty and lifestyle. The website is very easy to navigate. They deliver to any where in Nigeria at an affordable price too. I also wrote a review of my shopping experience with this brand. I love them especially for their superb customer service. You can shop stylish office and casual wears from the brand. Also there are lovely beauty products to improve your glow from these brand. They deliver the next day for Lagos based shoppers.
Shop All she needs mini bag
Marian clothing
Another fashion brand to shop for stylish and affordable fashion pieces is Marian clothing. It is owned by a Nigerian fashion blogger, Ada. She ships anywhere both within and outside Nigeria. There is also option for pick up. I prefer the pick up option because it is very accessible for me. So far my shopping experience has been fine. If you love to serve hot legs, the go to brand is Marian clothing. This is because most of her outfits are really short. Although, you can make a request to increase the length of your outfit to suit you. To order from marian clothings, check her out on instagram: @marianclothing_ng.
Rocking my two piece Marylin set
SolebySarah
Soles by Sarah is another affordable fashion brand to shop for trendy pieces. The brand makes hand made leather shoes as well as other accessories like rattan bags. For your summer or casual outings, you can shop a strap sandals from Sole by Sarah. It is owned and managed by Sarah Okolo. She delivers the next day for Lagos shoppers at an Affordable shipping fee. To shop stylish hand made shoes from her brand, look her up @solesbysarah on Instagram.
Rattan Bag from SolebySarah
Shein
Shein is an affordable online fashion brand to shop for closet. They sell trendy pieces for clothing and accessories. Shein site is a listing site for a lot of sellers. So, you need to read reviews of the brands in other to be safe. I also shared my review on my purchase from Shein. Some of the items on my cart are still as fabulous as ever. But My leopard print mini bag from one the brands from shein is now a write off after 3 weeks of usage. Imagine feeling like a damsel with your print bag and suddenly the strap snaps. The bag dropped my in a snap from ten to zero. Hence, for all online website with multiple sellers, the smart thing to do to avoid surprises is reading reviews. Reviews are personal experience of other shoppers and it will help guide you. Irrespective of my bad experience, shein is still a good site to shop trendy & affordable fashion piece for your closet. To avoid one bad apple to spoil to whole basket like my case, always take of reviews.
What is your opinion on the use of anklets? There are a lot of misconceptions in our society today about the use of anklets (popularly known as leg chains). These top Nigerian fashion bloggers will dissect anklets and its controversies in the society.
I was once wrongly perceived by someone that I just met as “a loose girl” at first sight because of my anklet. Even my boss at work also had his opinion on my use of anklets to work. He had to convince himself that I wasn’t a lesbian though I use anklets. Imagine that!
Anklets for me are just like any other jewelry like a bracelet, wristwatch, or necklace. So, I wonder why ladies who wear anklets attract disapproval from older folks or peers who look at them with disdain.
Igbo ladies in the early 20th century wear anklets to make a fashion statement. In those days, anklets signify prestige as well as wealth. Hence, it is disheartening that ladies who wear anklets are seen as lesbians, promiscuous or loose.
These misconceptions are some of the reasons ladies who love anklets don’t feel comfortable using them. Here some Nigerian fashion bloggers share their views on the use of anklets or how they dealt with bad assumptions about them because they simply wore anklets.
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Nigerian Fashion bloggers opinion on the use of Anklets
I interviewed other style bloggers in Nigeria on their opinion on the use of Anklets. Here is what they have to say and their opinion on the use of Anklets.
Stylebyadun
Adun, a Nigerian fashion blogger shares her opinion on the use of Anklets and personal experience wearing anklets.
“Growing up as a child I was made to believe that ladies who wear anklets are extremely promiscuous. I had been misjudged a couple of times using anklets. And I don’t really care about other people’s opinion as far as I am comfortable wearing it“.
In essence, she is of the opinion that anklets can be worn as far as the individual is comfortable in them. She blogs at www.trendywithirene.wordpress.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @stylebyadun.
Benita of the Stylishmillenial
Benita, another Nigerian fashion blogger at the stylish millennial also shares her opinion. She also talks about how people who use anklets are perceived.
“General misconceptions about ladies using anklets are related with decency. Apparently, it leaves the ladies with stares of disapproval and has people questioning the promiscuity of the wearer.”
Although she doesn’t use anklets she feels it is a stylish accessory. She blogs at http://thestylishmillenial.com. Her aim is to teach ladies between 18-35 years how to love their skin and own their personal style. She is also on Instagram @beenation_.
Debwritesblog
Debby is a lifestyle blogger and content creator based in Abuja. She is also an influencer for brands who want to promote their products. She uses anklets as jewelry but her experiences are not so good.
“I’ve always heard that only ladies who sell their body for money use anklets. I have been misjudged many times wearing anklets. A friend once called me out to stop wearing anklets because it makes me feel slutty. I then asked him if feels the same way about me wearing any other type of jewelry. Truly I don’t see it as a big deal. Hence, I have grown a thick skin around judgmental people who see it as wrong. Society has conditioned their mind about it be wrong, so, it will take a while to convince them otherwise. Anklets are a way to make a fashion statement. Just like wearing other jewelry like earrings or bracelets. “
I do share the opinion of this Nigerian fashion blogger, Debs, that the societal misconceptions around the use of anklets will hard to change. Moreover, if I can wear a necklace, waist bead, or bracelet, why can’t I wear anklets too? She blogs at www.debwritesblog.com and her instagram is @debwritesblog.
Sarah Okolo
Sarah is a Nigerian fashion blogger, lawyer and shoe maker. I particularly love her made shoes which I shared in a round post; 5 wardrobe essentials you should add to your summer fashion closet. She hasn’t been misjudged for wearing anklets. Lord knows what they say behind her?. Here she shares her opinion too.
“Anklets is a fashion accessory just like any other jewelry. I haven’t been misjudged to my face. But I have had a few elderly folks tell me to take it off. Because they feel it doesn’t speak well of me. Growing up the misconceptions surrounding the use of anklets was that it is worn by prostitutes, lesbians or ladies who are available.”
I really wonder how anklets tell of my marital status. Also how did anklets move from a jewelry of “prestige” to that which is associated to some kind of ladies?. Sarah blogs at www.ivorywealth.wordpress.com.
The Ada girl
A fashion entrepreneur and blogger, Ada rarely wears anklets but she has also heard some misconceptions on it use.
“While growing up, I hear a lot of people say that girls that wear anklets are wayward and irresponsible. Some people go as far as calling them, prostitutes. But with enlightenment around fashion, I’ve realized that nothing is wrong with it. It’s just as wearing bracelets on your wrist and earrings on your ears. Also, I hardly wear anklets and so far no one has misjudged me. “
Did I also say that she is skilled designer. I styled Morayo shirt dress on a post; How to style your shirt dress. She blogs at adagirl.com.ng. She also sells bags and shoes at you @slay_ng and @marianclothing_ng respectively on instagram.
From the discussion with above fashion bloggers, there is a general belief that anklets are worn by Lesbians and call girls. This misconception will take a lot of work to change in our society. Irrespective of this societal believes, anklet is a fashionable jewelry. And ladies who love anklets shouldn’t be seen as loose or lesbians. The misconceptions stated by the bloggers above is what they were told growing up.
What other belief or ideology were you told about ladies wearing anklets? Or what is your own opinion on the use of anklets. Do you agree on the thoughts shared by these Nigerian fashion bloggers or you absolutely disagree. Share your thoughts in the comment.
Typical of most offices is the freezing cold from the Air conditioner. It could get so cold that you may have to take hot tea all day. How do you keep warm in your cold office? Do you live on tea? Here are some cute outfit ideas to keep warm in your office.
In a bid to keep warm, your best bet is to layer your outfits. How can you dress stylishly to keep warm in the office? Here are some of the best cute outfit ideas for work to try. Also, some of these outfits take little effort like wearing accessories like scarves or ponchos.
Below are my favorite ways to dress for my cold office.
Cute work outfit ideas to keep warm at work
These outfit ideas are also perfect if you’re working from home during the cold season. Check out my favorite ways to keep warm in the office.
Complete your outfit with a shawl
Shawls are very large scarves that you wrap around you to keep warm in the office. They are perfect and easy to complete your looks. The good thing about shawls is that they can be worn while in the office and pulled off when in a warmer environment.
Shawls are also a versatile piece of fashion items not only to be worn by older or married ladies. It goes with gowns whether a western office dress or your Friday Ankara outfit. When choosing a shawl go for colors like black, brown, lavender, or white. I will link some of my favorite shawls or scarves from Everything5pounds.
Layer your outfit
Another simple fashion hack to keep warm in your cold office while being stylish is layering. Layering is a skill and should be worn with care. There is a thin line between being stylish and looking like a reverend mother while layering your outfit. One simple way to layer your office outfit is by wearing a long sleeve shirt or t-shirt in your sleeveless gowns.
Blazers
Blazers are a timeless must-have wardrobe essential for every lady. It is a very useful work wear outfit not just for keeping warm. Blazers make it easy to switch your outfit from casual to work wear. They complement every outfit whether, on gowns or shirts, it’s just perfect. It is also a stylish way to dress for your cold office. Blazers can keep warm all day reducing the effect of cold at the office. For me, if I am at loss on what to wear for office chills, I throw on a blazer to complete my work wear.
Cardigans
Remember those days when your mom ensures that you wear a cardigan to keep warm at school? Likewise, cardigans can also be worn as part of your workwear for your cold office. Although it can be quite challenging to get cardigans that are work appropriate.
But with the right cardigan e.g round neck cardigan or a long sleeve collarless cardigan, you can keep warm and be stylish. I really love collarless cardigans as they are very easy to throw on. I can easily keep on in my cold office and pull it off in a warmer environment.
Lekki conservation center Lagos is exciting, fun, and loved by the fearless. This is because it is known as the famous longest canopy walk in Africa. My day out at LCC was quite interesting and fun. Lekki Conservation park is located at Lekki epe expressway, Tipa bus stop. I almost missed my way trying to locate LCC on Sallah day. The reason is that one Lout ( Agbero) misled us, so I found myself in Ajah. This conservation center is also a home for wildlife animals like crocodiles, monkeys, etc.
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Where is Lekki conservation Center located & Entrance fee?
One of the best things to do in Lekki is to visit the Lekki conservation center. After finding myself in Ajah, I took another bus back to Tippa bus stop. The park is just opposite this bus stop at Lekki. How much does it cost to get into Lekki conservation center? The gate fee is 1000 naira per adult and 200 naira per child. You are to pay an extra 1000 naira if you’re to participate in the canopy walk.
After payment, all tourist are to wait in a hall to led to the nature reserve. This is to allow entry into the conservation center in batches. The waiting hall is so beautiful. In my years on earth, I am enamored by the beauty of a bamboo roof. Such a nice innovation. Also there a small food canteen at LCC. You can get foods, finger foods, drinks, etc. The price of such foods is quite pricey. This may be because LCC is located on the island and food items are sometimes double the price of the mainland.
The tour guide usually pre-inform individuals not to take food along into the forest reserve. So, I lost my small chops to the monkeys in the forest because i didn’t hear the instruction. Any food item attracts the monkeys in the forest and these animals will harass you until it is taken from you.
The walk into the nature reserve at Lekki conservation center was a long one. Also, there is warning signage on the trees informing tourist not to rest on the wooden bridge. This because the wood may snap and the person will fall into the marshy swamp or be eaten by crocodiles. What time does lekki conservation center close? The opening hours is from 8am to 5.30pm daily.
Fun things to do at Lekki Conservation Center Lagos
The highlight of my visit is the Lekki conservation center canopy walk. However, there are more fun activities you can do asides its famous canopy walk. You can also opt to visit only the family park. The gate of 1000 naira gives you access to the family park only. In order to enjoy the canopy walk, you need to pay another 1000 naira. So, the walk on the canopy is optional for tourist.
The family park is more like JJT park or Ndubisi Kalu park. You can have a fun picnic with your family. Also, you can buy food from this park. If you love finger foods, they’ve got your covered. There are facilities that your kids can play with. The grown ups can engage in a game of tennis or play soccer.
I love this park a lot. There are about 2 fish ponds at the family park.
Canopy walk
One of the fun and exciting things to do in Lekki conservation center is the canopy walk. I was terrified while on the canopy walk. If you have phobia for height, I would recommend you don’t look down at all. To access this activity, you are to pay 1000 naira. Children are not allowed to climb this canopy except teenagers.
The canopy is built such as an arc i.e. at a point on the walk, you keep climbing higher before descending. Also, there are intermittent stop points on the canopy. So, you can catch your breath and brace yourself on your journey. We all had to climb the canopy in batches of six or more to avoid so much weight.
You’re free to quit the walk at any point. A lady did because she was terrified.
Family Park
Another fun place to explore at LCC is the family park. The entrance fee of 1000 naira per adult grants you access to this park. A lot families only visit the family park at LCC. While other enjoy the canopy walk while the younger children are led to the park.
There are array of activities to participate in for fun. The park has bouncing castles for children. So, your kids can have as much fun on the castle. LCC family park also have lovely huts where you hold a get together, birth party or family picnic. This huts are of various sizes, you can opt for small hut if you’re just two or max four people.
The family park also have some game boards for fun like Chess , monopoly, draft etc. Although these boards games are no longer in good shape due to poor maintenance. LCC park would have been fun with the board games. You can go along with ball for those who love football.
Finger foods also available at the park like barbecue chicken, drinks, snacks, ice-cream etc. So you can visit the park with cash for your purchase of foods and drinks. Moreover, tourist are not allowed to carry food items through the forest reserve to family park to prevent harassment from the wild animals.
Tree house
LCC also have a tree top house that children/teenagers can engage in at the park. This tree house is about 21m tall. So, your younger children can opt to climb the tree house in place of canopy walk.
Other fun things to do at Lekki conservation center
There are so many hotpsot for hangout in Lekki. Other places you can visit in Lekki includes the Nike art gallery, or farm city Lekki. Click here to watch my vlog on Nike art gallery. This will give an idea of things you’d see at this art center in Lagos. Also, you can click here to subscribe for more travel vlogs at Maggie’s memoir.
FAQ to know about Lekki Conservation Center Lagos
What to wear to Lekki Conservation Center? The best outfit to wear whether for male or female to LCC is very comfortable clothes. You need comfortable clothes tp enjoy this place. I highly recommend hiking shoes like boots or chunky sneakers if you’d be doing the canopy walk. A pair of loose fitting pants or shorts or culottes is perfect for a trip to LCC.
What animals are in LCC? There are variety of birds, snakes which are in mostly aquatic and of course the monkeys which are literally everywhere. The are free to move around.
Do they sell food at Lekki Conservation center Lagos? Of course they do. You can get snacks, local dishes and drinks. However, since this place is on the island, their prices are quite high compared to prices in the mainland of Lagos.
How long is the Canopy walk of LCC? The Canopy walk is the longest walk in Africa spanning about 401meter long.
Summer is one of the most anticipated season of the year around the world. Over here in Nigeria, Summer is the same as the rainy season. The weather is either too hot or too cold after a heavy downpour. In the western part of the world, it that time to ditch layering and thick clothing for the light clothes. Also, this switch in dressing mode means that you need to start digging into your closet to bring out your summer outfits. The bright colors, prints, loose dresses and the likes that go with summer. Nonetheless, whether summer or rainy season, there are some essential fashion pieces that you need for your summer fashion closet. Here are 5 summer wardrobe essentials you need in 2021.
Print dress
Prints are always a summer staple. Every lady should own a print dress as a summer essential. For me, a print dress is a summer must-have for so many reasons. It brightens my mood, especially floral prints. Also, it is easy to wear, style and perfect for casual outings as well as vacations. You can your print dress with solid color heels like red or blue for a casual outing or as a Friday workwear.
Also for vacations, a pair of sandals will go well with your prints especially for a day out to the beach. If don’t have a print dress, you can purchase yours from the latest collection of my fashion blogger Wumi Tuase. This summer collection is in collaboration with ShopMosBox. The pieces are sparkly, affordable and to die for. To own a summer dress, shop your own @wumituase on Instagram. Also read my post on summer prints outfit ideas you need in your closet
A pair of Sandals
As stated earlier, summer for us in Nigeria comes sometimes with a heavy downpour. If you are like who works on the island, sometimes the rains come with some pool of water on the roads. You don’t want to be caught wearing your heels or loafers in the rain or risk losing them through damage. Hence, you need a pair of sandals for such days. Sandals are an essential summer staple for both the rain or the sun. They are perfect for casual outings. Although, for me during summer, a pair sandal is always in my bag. This for two main reasons; to easily switch from heels after work or for rainy days. To shop for fashionable hand made sandals for a summer wardrobe, check out @solebysarah on Instagram. Her shoes are fashionable, affordable and she delivers to any part of the country.
Rattan bags
Rattan bags are an essential summer wardrobe staple. This bags also known as straw bags were everywhere last year. It is a timeless fashion piece to own. Although, rattan bags are mostly reserved as an accessory for beach hangout or vacations. But they are also perfect for any formal or casual outing. Straw bags go with every outfit for summer. You can complete your outfits with straw bags; a jumpsuit, co-ord set outfit, rompers for vacations print dresses or work wear. In Nigeria, fashionable straw bags are not easy to find in the local markets. So, you can shop it from Ali-express or jumia. ( Ali-express sometimes may take forever to deliver at your local post office). You can also shop stylish straw bags from @solebysarah on Instagram.
Sweater
The sweater is another summer wardrobe staple for our weather in Nigeria. It sometimes gets too cold after a rainy day. Worse for you if you’re at work, its extra cold from the air conditioners. So, a stylish sweater for summer is essential. I particularly prefer sweaters made like jackets. It is easy to style with both casual outfits as well as workwear. Also, it is easy to switch looks in such sweater i.e. you put it on when it is cold and remove it when it becomes warm. Since summer in Nigeria comes with rains, you can purchase a good sweater from your local markets like Balogun, idumota, etc. Interestingly due to the summer season, this sweaters are very affordable and are mostly thrift. The only challenge is finding a stylish sweater out of the variety sweaters in the local markets.
Neon Outfits
Summer is the one the best to add some bright color outfit to your wardrobe. Bright colors like coral reefs, yellow, lemon, red and even neon green. For this summer, add some neon outfits to your closet; tops, dresses, pants in neon hues. You can choose to go sharp in monochrome neon green or color block with other bright colors for edgy looks. Also for a minimalist look, style your neon green with neutrals like black, white, etc. To shop a neon outfit you could shop online at dhl e-shop from to brands abroad and get it delivered at your doorstep. Also, you can also get a neon outfit at local markets; idumota, Balogun, etc. (Thanks to our ever industries Ibo brothers).
Beaches are the most relaxing place to visit for a vacation. How do I dress for the beach? What can I wear to the beach when I am not swimming? In this post, I will share some great options of cute beach outfits for summer.
Some of these options comprise bikini alternatives or beach outfits to wear for a modest look. Also, you need a great option of summer accessories to dress your look.
So, if you’re a first-timer or you frequent the beach, here are some ideas of what to wear for a beach hangout.
Cute beach outfits for summer
The beach is the best place to be for summer. After you’ve planned your trip to include a beach outing, you need stylish beach wear to pack. Here are cute beach outfits for summer to add to your travel packing list. I will also be linking some of my favorites you can shop from Everything5pounds.
Everything5pounds is one of my favorite sites like shein to shop. Every fashion item goes for about 5pounds. How much is shipping on everything5pounds? It is free anywhere in the UK. They also sell cute beach outfits for summer.
Shorts
In this part of the world, modesty in the way you dress is taken in high esteem. Unlike other parts of the world like Europe or America, there is absolutely nothing wrong with showing off “a better part” of your skin. So rocking bikinis and swimsuits that leave little to the imagination are normal beach outfits over there- its no big deal.
Coming down to our part of the world, rocking just bikinis may attract things you don’t like. Sexual harassment from weirdos or “agberos”, so, shorts are perfect for beach hang out.
Although there are stylish ways to rock bikinis and still look modest. You can style your bikini with sheer dresses, kimonos or see-through lace dress. This helps keep off the perverts while you rock your bikinis with style. For hydrophilic people that will take a swim or participate in waters sports, wear your bikinis with a scarf. Or better still you wear shorts.
Shorts are very comfy and you can go for any length you’re comfortable with. Bum shorts or 3/4 shorts paired with tanks, tee shirts, crop tops, etc are perfect for a day out at the beach.
Rompers are a great option if you need what to wear to the beach. For me, a floral romper is perfect. Rompers are like a shirt or blouse merged with shorts mostly loose at the thighs. Floral prints put me in the holiday moods and of course the summer feel. Most Rompers are breezy and easy to throw on.
So, you can rock a romper to the beach finishing off your look with a pair of sandals or sneakers. Although getting a quality affordable romper can be quite challenging in Nigeria. This item of clothing is not easy to find in local market e.g. Balogun, Oshodi or Idumota. And in most cases, if found its either too pricey or of a low quality. Nevertheless, you can get affordable quality romper from online stores like Jumia, Konga, etc.
Aside from the lovely cute beach outfits for summer, there are some lovely beach accessories to finish off your look. One of such accessories is a sunshade. A stylish sunshade will make feel chic all day as well as protect your eyes the sun rays.
Also, the heat from the sunray in the afternoon in Lagos can “boil beans” sometimes, so, a beach hat comes in handy. You can purchase a stylish sunshade with its case from All she needs. For a stylish beach hat, your purchase from your local market like Oshodi, Balogun market, etc.
There is hardly any outing you want to go for as a lady without a handbag. Growing up as a Nigerian lady, I have always seen my mum and elder sister always complete their outfit with a bag. So, it is almost impossible for me to go out without a bag.
This is irrespective of the size i.e. small or big depending on certain necessities for that day. So it is for a beach hang out. Your handbag is where you keep your essentials for your day out to the beach e.g. sunscreen cream, shades, games, snacks, etc.
For a beach day out, finish your look with straw bags also know as rattans or a tote bag. To purchase a stylish rattan bag, check @solebysarah on Instagram. She makes hand made accessories, also for a beach sandal, she is a go-to brand.
In as much as dressing to suit the occasion is essential, one shouldn’t forget the aim of vacation which is rest. Also, this list of beach outfit /accessories will come in handy for your next vacation to the beach. You also check out my post on how to dress stylishly for your cold office; style tips
The beach is one of the best places to unwind, chill and have a fun-filled day out. In Lagos state, there are several beaches you can visit for vacation. Some of these beaches are quite expensive while some are cheap. What are the cheapest beaches in Lagos to see? Are there private beaches in Lagos? In this post I will be sharing my top 15 best beaches in Lagos and their entrance fees. Some of these beaches are in Lekki while others around Okun-Ajah. I love to visit private beach in Lagos because they are quite neater and better.
So, if you need to visit beaches in Lagos, here are beaches for every budget. Also you can read my post on 10 best things to do in Lekki Lagos.
Tarkwa bay beach
How much does it cost to go to Tarkwa bay? Tarkwa is one of the cheapest beach in Lagos to visit. However, you need to take a boat ride to access the beach.
How can i get to Tarkwa bay?
You can access Tarkwa bay beach through a boat ride of 500naira per person from CMS, or Victoria Island. Also, if you’re in group, you can bargain for a fee that covers to and fro with any of the ferry drivers.
Fun things to do at Tarkwa bay beach, Lagos
The entry fee to Tarkwa bay is 300 naira per person. You can choose to sit on the rocks on the far end of the beach. Also, you can bring in your food.
There are food vendor on the beach where you can buy food too. If you don’t have a beach wear on you, you can shop for beach outfits at Tarkwa bay beach.
There beach chairs and tents available for rentals at this beach. Most of the tents cost from 6000naira to 10000naira. However, it solely depends on your negotiation skills.
You can stroll on the beach bank, swim in the beach waters, ride a quad bike or play soccer on this beach. Also, you have a picnic at the beach too.
Top 15 best beaches in Lagos: Laguna beach
Laguna Beach is another private beach in Lagos. How much does it cost to go to the beach in Lagos? It is not so expensive to go the beach in Lagos. One of the private beaches in Lagos to go on a budget is Laguna beach. Entry fee is 1000per person.
The Entry fee guarantees you access to all the beach benches and cabanas. Cheap right? So, if you need beach that is very affordable yet private, go for Laguna beach Lagos.
Atican Beach
Another private beach in Lagos to know is Atican beach. This beach is just beside Laguna beach. Atican beach is more of a resort with day pass to the beach.
The Entry fee to Atican beach for a day is 2000naira per person. You can sit in the beach huts. However, if you need beach benches, you need to pay for it.
I would recommend you just sit in the huts. You will see chairs to sit in provided by vendors at this beach. Fun things to at Atican beach includes horse ride, soccer games etc.
Barracuda
Barracuda beach is another private beach in Lagos also along the Okun-ajah beaches. It is farthest yet with the best private beach in Lagos.
The road to this beach is quite bad and it is horrible on a rainy day. I would recommend you visit during the dry season. The entry fee to barracuda beach is 1500naira per person. This gives to access to all the facilities at the beach.
However, there are other activities like horse riding which you need to pay for. Can I bring in my food to Barracuda beach? Sure you can bring in your own food to this beach. Also, you can get food at barracuda beach at the restaurant.
Barracuda beach also has a lodge, lounge, and club. For me, this my top best places to go for honey moon in Lagos on budget. You can also read my post on other places to for honeymoon in Nigeria.
Whispering palms resort, Badagry Lagos
Another private beach in Lagos that is perfect for honeymooners is whispering palms resort, Badagry. They have nice lodges, restaurant and lounges. So, if you need fun place for honeymoon, go for whispering palms. The lodges go for as low as 20,000naira per night.
Also, you visit this resort for a day to tour it. The entry fee is 1500per night. These covers for at least 2 paid activities like bicycle ride and paddle boat ride.
Whispering palms does not really have a beach front. So, you can not swim in the beach. However, you can lounge on the beach chairs facing the water. You also engage in free activities like snookers, table tennis, swim in the pool, or play mini golf.
Gberefu Island beach ( Point of no return, Badagry, Lagos)
Gberefu island beach is another fun beach to visit in Lagos. This beach is the point of no return where the slave traders use for shipping slaves. It is said that slaves never returned home on reaching this point.
The entry fee to Gberefu beach is 200naira. You can only access this island on a boat ride that cost 100naira per person. It is a very long trek to this beach. However, it worth the walk as this beach is very beautiful. I also visited other places in Badagry like Badagry Museum, the first storey building. Click here to learn other fun things to do in Badagry Lagos.
Lekki Leisure Lake beach Lagos
Another beach in Lagos and entrance fee you need to know is Lekki Leisure Lake beach. This is also located at Lekki. The entry fee is 2000naira per person.
I would recommend this beach if you need private beach in Lagos on a budget. Also one of my best of the top 15 best beaches in Lagos. The entry fee gives you access to the beach benches, and all other facilities. However, you cannot bring in your food. You can only buy from the beach restaurant. In my opinion, the food at the restaurant is quite expensive.
All in all, I would recommend Lekki Leisure beach as it is a great place to have fun in Lagos.
Suntan beach
Suntan beach is another beach in Badagry Lagos. This is also very affordable. You can locate this beach taking a tricycle from Badagry roundabout.
The entry is 500naira per person. You can access all the beach chairs for free. Also, you can take a horse ride for 500naira. I would recommend taking pictures at the beach with their so called ” Professional photographer“. The pictures I got were crap. A mobile phone picture is way better.
Eleko Beach
Eleko beach is another fun beach to visit in Lagos. Although, this beach is quite far. It is a few more distance on a bus from Novare mall.
I enjoyed my visit to this beach. The beach is free to access as at when I visited (2019). However, I am unsure of any changes till date.
You can enjoy a stroll at the park, play soccer at the beach or just take instagrammable pictures. Also, you can book a beach hut which comes with a mini pool. If you love to swim, you cannot swim at the beach. This because it too deep and unsafe for swimming.
Landmark Beach resort and Hotels
Another best private beach to know and one of the top 15 best beaches in Lagos is Landmark beach. This beach is more a resort with access to the beach for hotel guest and day visit.
The entry fee is 2000naira per person. You can only pay for access to this beach online for day visit. Also, you cannot bring in your own food. You can get food at the beach for as low as 2000naira.
Landmark beach also has beach clubs you can enlist to. These beach clubs offers a lot of fun activities for members. You need to pay for beach benches or lounge chairs for access. The beach benches goes for about 4000naira for the bench.
However, if you’re on a budget, you can hang around and still have fun at the beach without paying for benches or chairs. You can go with a picnic mat to enjoy the beach view and have fun. Click here to book a day at landmark beach.
Oniru Private beach
Oniru beach is another beach you need to know. This beach is located a few walking distance from Landmark beach Lagos.
The entry fee to Oniru beach is 1000naira per person. Also, you can access the Moist beach club at this beach. Moist beach club is a fun place to visit. However, you cannot have access except you make reservations or buy a bottle of wine.
On my visit to Moist beach, I was declined access because they assumed I was underaged. Can you imagine? Anyways, you can explore Oniru beach too. Oniru beach is quite fun. However, it is always crowded. Also, the beach benches are too close to the water. Sometimes the waves flows to the lounging area and I find that disgusting.
You can bring in your food. Also, you can buy food at the beach. You can enjoy horse riding for a fee of 500naira or Jet ski for 2000naira per person for 5 minutes rides.
Other beaches to Know
Other fun beaches of the 15 best beaches in Lagos on my bucket list to explore are the following.
Elegushi Beach: I haven’t visited because it is the most common. Also, it is said to be always full to capacity.
Light house beach: This is a fun beach club located at Tarkwa bay. I am yet to visit because of the cost of access. However, I am unsure of access for day visit. Feel free to comment below if you know.
Ilashe beach: This is also another luxury private beach in Lagos to Know. You require a boat ride to access this beach. You can go on a day visit or stay in at their beach huts.
La Campaigne tropicana: This beach is my top bucket list destination. Although it is quite expensive too. The entry fee is 6000naira per person.
So, if you’re Lagos and need beaches to see, explore any of these Lagos beaches. These are the top 15 best beaches in Lagos you can explore.
As a lady, there are times where you look into your closet and feel like you need some new items to be added. In other to do this, you can choose to check out some stores to pick up new finds or like me opt for online shopping. For someone like me who loves shopping online-due to my 9-5 job, discovering new affordable fashion sites always gladdens my heart. This especially if the items are trendy, versatile and a Nigerian owned brand. Sometimes, made in Nigerian fashion brands are high-end as well as too pricey. On another hand, shopping from overseas sites is even more frustrating. (the long wait for your item, expensive shipping fee, exchange rate, etc.). One such affordable Nigerian fashion brand i recently shopped from is All she needs.
All She Needs is an online fashion brand with well-curated stylish items. The brand is a one-stop-shop that caters for feminine needs; clothing, accessories, jewelry, etc. Their website is simple to navigate with items all to die for. I picked up two items from their website which i will review in this post as well as share my experience shopping with this brand.
Shopping with All She Needs
I first came across this brand on the Instagram page of Fashion blogger, thisthingcalledfashion. So I checked out their site, All she needs and I was totally floored. Their fashion items are amazingly beautiful. Navigating through the site was quite easy and well sectioned. As someone who loved to save and plan my shopping, I added two lovely items to my cart as soon as I was ready; A bag and a dress.
Customer Service
Their customer service is very good. One of the items, a mini bag- Eva Bag which I chose in brown went out of stock. The brand gave me a call to pre-inform me and also to know if i would love it in another color which was in stock at the time. This customer service was quite thrilling because some online brands will have switched the color to the available without your consent. (I am living proof of such switches).
Delivery time
The delivery was also fast. I made my order like a day before and i got it the next day as Lagos shopper. The delivery fee is also quite reasonable as i was charged 1,000 naira for both items. You can also get your items delivered free for orders of 30,000 naira and above.
Payment Options
Also, there are two payment options available: pay on their site and on delivery of your items. The payment on delivery is good for those who prefer to see their shopped items. (especially if you want to be sure it fits for clothing before making a payment). I opted for pay on delivery and i wasn’t impressed with the way my bill was issued to me. My bill was written in paper instead of an invoice. For me, the brand can do better than that. But the way they packaged my items was quite beautiful. ( I really love the shopping bag that came with my cart.). So basically my shopping experience with All She needs was good.
Mini Bag (Eva Bag)
Shop Eva Mini Bag from All She Needs
I have always wanted to own a mini bag. Because they are chic and lightweight. So I shopped the Eva mini bag from All She needs a site. This bag comes in two sizes; large for those who love space to carry enough stuff in your bag and mini bag-just for the essentials. It is also a very lovely eye-catchy chic handbag – I always get nice compliments rocking it. It goes well all outfits so I don’t have to bother about matching my outfit with my bag.
This bag checks the list of all I look out for in a bag. It is fun or work bag, durable/waterproof i.e. it doesn’t soak up water especially when caught in the rain & quite affordable. It also fits my basic needs; lipstick, pen, note pad, make up, etc. It is a bag suitable for days when you want to carry your basic needs for the day- leaving out the extras.
My review of mini Dress (Mimi Dress) from All she needs
I added a mini dress- Mimi Dress, to my cart from All She Needs. This mini dress is classy and really beautiful. The dress is made from a shiny material. Just every mini dress, it easy to throw as well as style. This dress gives me a whole range of ideas on places to rock it to; a dinner outing with boo, girl’s night out or to an event- to slay the red carpet. The two items I shopped from All She needs makes me gets value for my penny. If I am looking to add new pieces of fashion items to my closet, I will look to All She needs.
As an African lady who is proud of the curly nature that comes with black hair, I avoid ponytail hairstyle. This hairstyle normally do not last for more than two weeks. (Most stylist pre-inform you so you know that you can’t wear it for so long- more like a disclaimer that comes with the hairstyle.). Aside the fact that it doesn’t last, it is fast and affordable to make. i.e. if the hair extension is not so pricey. Last Month, I made my hair from Demoire brand. She needed a model for hair and gets to keep it. (Who am I to pass off such offer) . Also her work is always epic from my last experience working with her. It was in collaboration with Ajike Makeover for a bridal look. I was floored with their work. So a yes was in line. I love the hair. Here is one of the easy natural hair styles and how to maintain it for one month.
Demoire brand is an hair stylist, wig maker and seller of the loveliest falsies. For her brand promotion, she used me as model and made a lovely ponytail on my hair. I was wowed as usual by her expertise as I was on an un-relaxed hair at the time. She was able to get whatever look she wanted with my hair. She also gave guidance on how to maintain it to last as at least two weeks. This is something you don’t get from most stylist. (How will they make more sales if your hair last long?. Chai.)
Freshly made ponytail, Styled by Demoire
How I maintained my ponytail?
Surprising my ponytail hairstyle lasted over a month. This because of the directions of maintenance give by Demoire. (Well I did something slightly different). The method of I used for rocking my ponytail for a month are as follows
For night time or bed time, Wrap your ponytail hairstyle with a scarf to hold it. This helps the gel stay for fresh each day
Fill a spray bottle with water at the end of the week and sprinkle on hair. Then tied a scarf over for it for about 5 minutes. It gives the hair a refreshing look
Or you get a spray gel from your local store. I bought mine for about 600 naira at Oshodi Market. You can use a spray gel if don’t have an empty spray bottle. Repeat the process like step two
Cream the attached hair extensions often so as to maintain its glow
This simple hacks for maintaining ponytail will help you rock it for a longer period. Also Demoire brand is a go to for your hairstyles. She always brings out ones beauty with her skills and you can reach on Instagram through @De_moire. You can also read 5 easy style hacks every woman should know.
Easy sleek low bun ponytail natural hairstyles
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post and all opinions are mine.
Skincare routine for clear skin using Arami essentials
I know this may seem like its not related to this post. However, a fine face and beautiful hair is what makes us fashionable. You may wear the most stylish outfit there is. But if you have a rough, uneven or acne prone skin, this makes all your effort seem like a waste. So, here I shared a simple 2 minute skincare routine using Arami essentials.
Arami Essentials is an organic skincare product. So, you don’t need to worry about using too many chemicals for your skin. Click the YouTube video below to watch my Arami essentials review.