Africa’s leading media personality Toke Makinwa is sharing her rich taste in fashion and beauty with the world via a plethora of entrepreneurial adventures. From perfumes and accessories to tote bags, this soft-life connoisseur is set to put her girlies on to the “baby girl for life” game.
Check out her latest, launching on the 5th of June, Oríkì. Born of Toke’s roots in the remarkable Yoruba traditions of West Africa, Oríkì means To Chant or Poetry. It loosely translates to “Praise of the head” and is a cultural phenomenon amongst Yoruba speakers from the Western Part of Nigeria, West Africa.
Toke Makinwa’s Oríkì is a tribute to home. These colourful “tote” bags are celebrations of culture, a homage to the importance of the head, and a symbol of the beauty and strength that runs through our veins.
The Oríkì Tote Collection by Toke Makinwa is a beautiful blend of tradition and modern elegance in fashion. Each handbag in the collection is crafted with care, celebrating the richness of the Yoruba culture and the exceptional craftsmanship of its people through the years. This collection is a testament to timeless elegance, making it a must-have.
The blend of colours on the bags celebrates our excellent spirit, each detail carefully woven together is praiseworthy and delicately crafted to embody the deep essence of the names we take pride in.
Meet the Standout Pieces
Àjoké Tote
Deep Blue highlighted by Crimson Red. Àjoké means “to be cherished by all,” making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe
Crafted with care and attention, this tote is designed for women who value style and substance, symbolizing passion, inclusivity and trust.
Àduke Tote
A blend of Regal purple and lilac speaks luxury and exclusivity. Àduke translates to “Beloved/much loved by many,” capturing the essence of elegance and refinement.
Representing luxury, nobility, and exclusivity, its unique features and exquisite craftsmanship make it a highly coveted and beloved possession for many men and women.
Àdùnní Tote
A mixture of yellow and orange sparks drama. Àdùnní means “Sweet to have,” perfect for those who embrace positivity and happiness.
This sweet treasure symbolizing joy, warmth, and the sweetness of life is a delightful, elegant accessory that adds a pop of colour and a sense of optimism to any ensemble.
Celebrate the Yoruba heritage and elevate your style with these exquisitely designed totes, each piece reflecting timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Available at Toke Makinwa Luxury
When you purchase the Oríkì tote collection by Toke Makinwa, you carry a piece of history and a story of resilience and elegance told by a name.
Haute Couture Week Fall 2024-25, which took place in Paris, wasn’t your typical affair. Held just weeks before the Olympic Games descends upon the city, the event pulsated with an energy that celebrated the human spirit and the power of fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most triumphant and theatrical looks that stole the show.
Demna Gvasalia, the creative director at Balenciaga, challenged the very definition of couture with his Fall 2024 collection. Yes, there were the expected echoes of Cristobal Balenciaga’s iconic silhouettes and elaborate headwear, but the true surprise was the fusion of these elements with Demna’s signature materials: denim, leather, and technical outerwear. Think oversized hoodies transformed into gowns and puffer jackets given haute couture makeover.
Taking inspiration from the Olympics of antiquity and their modern counterparts, Maria Grazia Chiuri crafted a lineup of sporty-chic Grecian gowns at Dior. Flowing silhouettes in light fabrics were paired with tank top bodices, a nod to the athletic prowess of the female form.
In their first couture show since the departure of Virginie Viard, Chanel upped the theatricality at their new venue, the Palais Garnier, the historic Paris Opera House. Dramatic opera capes and glamorous evening skirt sets ruled the runway, a fitting tribute to the opulent world of opera.
Haute Couture Week isn’t just about the clothes on the runway. Street style takes center stage as well, with attendees showcasing their interpretations of Parisian chic. This year, there was a definite influence of the upcoming Olympics, with metallics and sporty elements dominating the streets of the City of Lights.
From the subversion of Balenciaga to the Grecian goddesses of Dior and the operatic grandeur of Chanel, Haute Couture Week Fall 2024-25 was a season to remember. It was a celebration of human achievement, both in the realm of sports and in the art of fashion.
Here are the best designs on the Haute Couture Week Fall 2024-25 runways…
Schiaparelli
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Dior
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Thom Browne
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Chanel
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Armani Prive
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Balenciaga
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Jean Paul Gaultier by Nicolas di Felice
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Collins Badewa
A fashion and pop culture writer who watches a lot of TV in his spare time. At Style Rave, we aim to inspire our readers by providing engaging content to not just entertain but to inform and empower you as you ASPIRE to become more stylish, live smarter and be healthier. Follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ ♥
Step aside blue, gray denim takes the crown for summer 2024! For years, blue denim has been the undisputed king of casual wear. It was everything–classic skinny jeans, trendy boyfriend cuts, rugged distressed jackets, and much more. There’s no denying that it’s a trusted wardrobe staple, but it’s summer 2024, and gray denim is officially considered the cool kid.
Fashion insiders are declaring gray the hottest denim trend of 2024, and with good reason. The color is a breath of fresh air from the traditional blue and black. It works just as fine, with varying styling options anchored on a subtle vibe.
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The allure of gray denim color
The beauty of gray denim lies in its incredible versatility. Unlike its blue counterpart, gray offers a more neutral palette that goes into a variety of styles. It elevates a laid-back weekend look and also gives a finishing touch to dressed-down elegance. Undoubtedly, gray denim can always adapt.
The wide spectrum of grays available further expands your options. Light washes offer a breezy summer vibe, while medium grays provide a balanced look perfect for everyday wear. Darker washes, on par with classic black denim, can be dressed up for a night out.
Shop editor’s curation
Compared to blue denim, which can sometimes feel a tad juvenile, gray offers a more mature and sophisticated air. It retains the cool, casual feel of denim while adding a touch of refinement. Black denim, on the other hand, can sometimes appear harsh. Simply put, gray bridges the gap, offering a softer and more approachable alternative.
Gray denim trends for 2024
The 2024 runways were awash with a stunning array of gray denim styles, including:
Wide-legs: Wide-leg cuts are a major trend, offering a comfortable and relaxed silhouette. They pair perfectly with tucked-in blouses or cropped sweaters for a chic and balanced look.
Flared options: Flared jeans are also making a comeback, adding a touch of retro charm to your outfit. Look for subtle flares that flatter the leg without overwhelming your silhouette.
Intriguing washes: When it comes to washes, a light vintage wash with subtle distressing offers a lived-in feel that’s both stylish and effortless. Also, consider a dark, clean wash with minimal distressing.
Embellishments: Embellishments like subtle embroidery or metallic threading are also making their mark, adding a touch of personality to your gray denim.
How to style this denim trend
The beauty of gray denim lies in its ability to look great with all kinds of styles. Here are some tips on how to style it for different occasions:
Casual, chic, and bold: Pair your light-wash gray jeans with a crisp white t-shirt and a denim jacket for a timeless and effortless look. Add a pop of color with a bright red handbag or a pair of bright sneakers.
Office denim: Elevate your office attire with a pair of dark-wash, wide-leg, gray jeans and a tailored blazer. A silk blouse and pumps complete the sophisticated and professional look.
Shop editor’s edit
Night out on the town: Swap out your black jeans for a pair of dark gray skinny jeans and a statement top. A leather jacket and statement heels will add a touch of edge for a night out.
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Embrace the gray revolution
Gray denim’s versatility, sophisticated air, and on-trend appeal make it a must-have for your 2024 wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different washes, cuts, and styles to find your perfect gray color denim look. From casual outings to dressed-up occasions, gray denim can be your go-to for effortless style. Ditch the predictable blue and embrace the cool, sophisticated charm of gray denim.
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Vivian Bens
A creative writer with a voracious appetite for fashion, beauty, lifestyle and culture. As one who’s passionate about the advancement of the woman, creating content that inspire smart style and living, and positive lifestyle changes is a calling I take seriously. At Style Rave, we aim to inspire our readers by providing engaging content to not just entertain but to inform and empower you as you ASPIRE to become more stylish, live smarter and be healthier. Follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ ♥
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has been a whirlwind of emotions, a kaleidoscope of musical periods revisited, and a testament to her enduring connection with fans. Each stop on this global journey brings new surprises, heart-tugging moments, and a celebration of Swift’s artistic evolution.
The London leg on Sunday, June 23rd, was no exception, as fans at the iconic Wembley Stadium witnessed a truly unforgettable moment–a surprise appearance by none other than NFL superstar Travis Kelce, Swift’s boyfriend.
A Match Made in Unexpected Heaven: Football Meets Pop
While the worlds of professional football and pop music might seem like unlikely companions, the surprise appearance of Kelce sent the stadium into a frenzy. Swift, known for her meticulously crafted setlists and elaborate stage productions, managed to keep this surprise under wraps, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already electric atmosphere. Fans, who had been diligently dissecting Swift’s social media posts and tour details for any cryptic clues, were left stunned and delighted.
From the Stands to the Stage: Kelce Joins Swift for a Show-Stopping Performance
Midway through the concert, a hush fell over the crowd as the pulsing beat of “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” filled the stadium. Before this electrifying moment, Swift had been playfully hinting at a special guest during her recent shows. Eagle-eyed fans, ever vigilant on social media, dissected her posts and tour details, searching for cryptic clues. This only added to the anticipation swirling around the London stop. The decibel level in Wembley Stadium reached a deafening crescendo when the spotlight finally landed on Kelce, who emerged from the wings sporting a tuxedo and a sparkly top hat.
A Performance Full of Heart: Kelce Steals the Show (But Not the Spotlight)
While Kelce might be a superstar on the football field, his singing experience is limited. However, his sheer enthusiasm and genuine love for Swift were undeniable. He confidently joined the songstress for a stripped-down acoustic rendition of “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart,” a fan-favorite duet from her latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department.”
The crowd, completely captivated by the moment, sang along with gusto, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Kelce’s role wasn’t limited to just singing. He playfully participated in the song’s choreography, picking up Swift and carrying her offstage for her costume change. He even took a moment to powder her face, adding a touch of lighthearted fun to the performance. His enthusiasm and love for Swift were clear as day, and the crowd responded with thunderous applause.
Beyond the Surprise: A Testament to Swift’s Showmanship
While Kelce’s surprise appearance undoubtedly stole the show at this leg of the Eras tour, it also served as a testament to Taylor Swift’s artistry and ability to captivate her audience. Her willingness to incorporate such unique elements into her tour demonstrates her commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for her fans.
The Eras Tour is not just a concert; it’s a carefully curated journey through Taylor Swift’s musical evolution, filled with nostalgia, powerful vocals, and breathtaking visuals. Kelce’s surprise appearance added another layer to this narrative, showcasing the importance of love and unexpected connections in her life and music.
Eras Tour: A Celebration of Taylor Swift’s Song and Story
The Eras Tour is a celebration of Taylor Swift’s musical journey, revisiting each distinct era of her career. Each stop on the tour features a carefully curated setlist that takes fans on a nostalgic trip through her albums, from the country charm of her early days to the pop anthems that have dominated the charts in recent years. The London show was no different, with Swift belting out fan favorites like “Love Story” and “Shake It Off” alongside newer hits like “The Very First Night” and “Carolina.” The crowd, a diverse mix of ages and backgrounds, sang along word-for-word, proving the timeless appeal of Swift’s music.
A Look Back and a Look Forward: Swift Reflects on London and Beyond
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Swift shared her reflections on the London show. She expressed her awe at the massive crowds, writing, “Wembley Stadium round one was so surreal. Looking out into crowds of 90,000 fans each night and hearing that VOLUME… Those were some of the loudest crowds I’ve ever heard.” She further elaborated on some of the show’s highlights, reminiscing about the energy of the acoustic sections and the joy of reuniting with old friends like Hayley Williams of Paramore for a performance of “Castles Crumbling,“a song they hadn’t performed together since 2011. Swift also expressed her excitement about welcoming rising star Gracie Abrams to the stage for the first-ever live performance of their collaboration, “Us.”
A Mutual Support System: Kelce Cheers Swift On, Swift Returns the Favor
Travis Kelce’s attendance is not the first time he has shown his support for Taylor Swift on tour. He attended a stop in Kansas City last July, even before they started dating, and has been a regular fixture at her shows since. Meanwhile, Swift has been a vocal supporter of Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs, even attending this year’s Super Bowl where they emerged victorious. This mutual support system adds another layer of sweetness to their relationship, highlighting the genuine connection they share.
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Bilikisu Bashir
Unafraid to challenge the norm, I write stories that spark conversations and leave a mark. At Style Rave, we aim to inspire our readers by providing engaging content to not just entertain but to inform and empower you as you ASPIRE to become more stylish, live smarter and be healthier. Follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ ♥