Monday, November 06, 2006

THE BELLANAIJA HOT LIST

Hey everyone,
I'm sooo sorry that I have been so sporadic with my updates...
I have been on the move so it’s been kinda difficult to grab some free moments to update the way I want to...
Thanks for all the comments and all that....
Anyway, hope you had a great weekend!
This week is goin' to be hot! Take my word for it!
So watch out!

I present – The Bella Naija Hot List
It’s my guide to What’s Hot!
This is the first one so look out for future editions…
Let’s go!


THE TREND
The hottest trend right now is the full flare high waist skirt! This voluminous skirt is a gorgeous alternative the boho skirts that were the rave last year.
No matter your size - from skinny to full-bodied - this style is very flattering as long as its worn right....
Peridot & Ruby makes beautiful yet wearable versions of this skirt while Lanre Da Silva Ajayi makes a more avant-guarde version....
Try this...u'll be surprised by how stunning you'll look!


THE SPOT
No doubt about it, the hottest spot right now is Bambuddha.
Lagos has a notoriously fickle nightlife....the hotspot today is usually the has-been place tomorrow. For now, Bambuddha is the place to be.....
With the gorgeous interior, delectable food and drinks and enviable crowd - Bambuddha Restaurant and Lounge Bar is defintely THE hotspot...

You can visit them at Plot 1310 Karimu Kotun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria


THE BOOK
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's new novel, Half of a Yellow Sun is already garnering rave reviews. It is a set in biafra-era Nigeria but tells a very personal tale. It is a great read for people of all ages.

You can buy it at your book chain or purchase online on amazon.com


THE MAG
This is the HOT mag (no pun intended)
HauTe - Fashion Nigeria provides a fresh blend of international high fashion and local Nigerian designs...
Established international designers of Nigerian origin alongside high-flying home grown talent!
Grab your copy of HauTe while you can!









THE MAN
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu may not have won Big Brother Nigeria (BBN) but he certainly hasn't let that stop him. Its been months since the competition ended and Ebuka's is still shining bright in the spotlight. Along with five other BBN finalists, he was recently signed on as Glo ambassador. Ebuka defintely deserves his place on the hot list.








THE WOMAN
Bolanle Austen-Peters has set herself apart as a woman of excellence. This former United Nations (UN) employee left a career in international law and brought us Terra Kulture. Terra Kulture can best be described as an event venue per excellence - African Style! With Bolanle at the reins, Terra Kulture has grown from strength to strength while strongly promoting African/Nigerian culture to the new generation. With all the past success, she has not let down her guard, instead she continues to strategize new ideas and concepts for her business. For all that work, Bolanle Austen-Peters is THE woman.



That's it!
I hope you guys like it!
Let me know what you think...
Have a blessed week everyone and I'll be back tomorrow!

48 comments:

plebian said...

Congratulations on your 100th post! It was a couple of posts ago but I honstly can't believe you're *new* to the game as you're always on point.

As for this post, I thought "Half A Yellow Sun" was a short story! I read an excerpt a few months back but assumed it was just a story and not a novel. Now I must run and buy it since my book sense is like your fashion sense.

As for Periodot n' Ruby. How o how do I contact them? I'll be in Naija soon and would love to order!

Be well.

Anonymous said...

Keeping it coming. Luv da idea of the hot list.

bibi said...

the hot list is HOT...terra kulture is a cool place..luv the decor...food is allright...

Anonymous said...

nice nice i like the terra kulture

Anonymous said...

Nice! love ur hot list.

Lola said...

hey bella! great idea with the list!!! I have one issue though. I have been noticing a trend in lagos that bothers me at the least and terrifies me at the most. This is with restaurant/lounges/nightclubs that are cropping up in the city that are discriminatory towards women on the one hand, and locals (read Nigerians) on the other hand. While Bambuddha is a lovely restaurant, i have heard stories and stories on end of people being harassed solely because they are women, they are a group of women, or double standards with foreigners. We should all agree that in today's Nigeria, this type of behavior is deplorable. I understand that some clubs want to maintain an exclusivity and that's fine. SIMPLY state that so and so is a gentlemen's club etc. But to treat people the way some of these bars do is just disgraceful. Please, Bambudha is an example of this. Yes it's hot, cuz we Nigerians, we like to think of ourselves as above everyone else even if we know it's wrong. Let us be enlightened and discourage this attitude and trend. We can all have great times without bordering on sexism or racism.

Anonymous said...

Hi Bella, I was just wondering if you can post the link of the letter that Fela Durotoye wrote his wife - Tara cos the link through your blog isnt working.

Thanks and keep up the good work!

Dimples said...

Love this new idea of yours...what am I evenn chatting your ideas are always FAB..
Yeah love Peridot and Ruby creations...very very nice and creative.
Broccolimakesmepuke..i'd beg to differ..cos some of the stuff on their clothing line could be deemed as orginals..but it's all good..everyone is allowed to air his or her own view.
To all have a FAB day and a blessed week ahead.

TMinx said...

Bambuda is a nice looking place and thats where it stops. The management is full of airs and are very rude. I hope they see this and take the critisism as feedback and change for the better. My two cents.

There are a number of Peridot and Ruby originals IMHO but then everybody is different.

I have to get that book, right now im readung 26a.

Take it easy Bella!

Anonymous said...

Dis broccoli sha.. She go talk her own. I like that. Say your own and keep am real. When nice comment don too much because pesson dey fear e no good. Make someone talk how e feel and make person respect am. Dat na mature wey. Love your honesty brocoli

Dimples said...

Lol..Anonymous 3 too razz abeg...
Anyways yeah Ebuka was a hottie.all those girls were feeling him and he loved every moment of him...he seemed like a nice dude though..shame he didn't stay longer...Katung though was a true winner from the very beginning. :)

Uzo said...

I am loving this list. Love the idea of having a hot list. Keep up the great work....

Anonymous said...

THat baby blue dress (or is it skirt?) looks absoluetly smashing.

Anonymous said...

Prolific Bells! Like the hot list idea! chick in the blue dress is quite exudes class. V.nice

LondonBuki said...

I have Half of a Yellow Sun on my bookshelf... I will be reading it soon.

Nice post!

Have a nice week!

Anonymous said...

@ dimples lol! Abi wetin i talk na lie?

Anonymous said...

I misss you!!!!!....LoL

XxKizzesxX

D!!

Biodun said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Biodun said...

Am loving the list girl, the skirts r fab, am rocking my lanre creation today, lol, n will go get that book, great post!

Anonymous said...

I actually agree with Broccoli. While the skirts are nice, they are indeed a replica of what's already out there. Also, the high waisted skirts is NOT for every figure. Short waisted or no waist should avoid because it emphasises the lack of a waist line.

Keep the HOT list going.

On the comment on the treatement of restaurant. Completely agree. Certainly out here in the West what makes a spot off da hook includes customer service. Restaurants/lounges/bars get reviews not just because the ambience and music might be cool but critical as to food and service.

I'll be in Naija in December and will NOT patronize their business. I do not give my hard earned naira to those who disrespect me.

Anonymous said...

half a yellow sun - amazing book, read every letter on every page. Chimamada is trully gifted.

Ebuka is foine damn... i miss BBN like crazy. Is there a way to catch up on what the housemates are up to? anyone?

Icy PR said...

Sup mama.. noice post. Naija peeps are repping.. gotta love it.. I am so frigging excited to say. I am officially a proud owner of a Peridot and ruby.. You have to have one to understand the feeling lol! Me likey!...

Ms. May said...

Great post girl.

@ Maurine: Email lab5fs@hotmail.com for P&R stuff. I am of the opinion that the entire P&R line is fabulous and part of the appeal is that they are two young women doing their thing and we need to support them. In addition, there are some very unique pieces, some of which I own, love and wear proudly. Fashion isn't always going to be original and when that's the case, it comes down to the cut, the fit, the quality, and the cost and P&R has the best of all of that and more. Finally, keep in mind that these ladies have just begun and the best of the best is yet to come! My two cents.

Still haven't read "Half" but definitely on my list.

Stay up!

Anonymous said...

Ah my fellow naijas!

Bella i totally love your hot list...
I am a big fan of P & R as you can see from my blog.
While your next door tailor can imitate what P&R does, to duplicate it would be a tad bit difficult.
I mean, lets keep it real, fashion is the same everywhere but its that splash of creativity that makes it what it is...There are tons of people making clothes and designing outfits these days...but its all about who has the character to make it stand out. I respect people that get off their asses and do something for a change. Other than sit there and talk the talk, when infact to walk the walk is difficult.
Go Peridot and Ruby. I am impressed. Will always be.
I think everyone has a RIGHT not to like P & R...but trust me on this one...your liking them or disliking them will not DISTURB the sales... (smile). At least i dont think so.

Bambudda, i have been hearing lots of things about that place. We will have to see whats up with them. I have also heard of their rude staff...we will also see how that goes.

Nice post Bella!

Wale said...

nice one!
it's nice to get the 411, not 419, about what's hot in naija.

abeg...what's hot for naija guys? apart from the hot naija sistas...wearing those hot clothes.

:c)

Anonymous said...

i will be looking forward to Bellanaija's hot list. I'm sure it will be blazingly hot!

I do love the feature on terra kulture. Eventhough i am completely cluess about her work ( and for the most part all of the features on today's post), you do give an insight into the world of fashion, entertainment in Naija land. i will definately be tagging along with you this christmas! i have to experience it to become a part of it :)

sufferingandsmiling said...

this has to be one of my favorite blogs. hmmm.

Beautifully Human said...

cool 'hot' list! I lurve the high-waisted skirt, but how long before every girl is wearing it and spoiling the look( just like the gypsy skirts)
Cant wait to get my hands on 'half a yellow sun'; I loved 'purple hibiscus'.

Anonymous said...

Lol..chei chei! lol. one peson jus giv minor little negative opinion about sometin for dis page na im people begin talk sales and dis and dat. Say u like am or not leave ur comment and leave tori. instead una go read wetin anoda peson talk b 4 una ditribute una own comment. Na free cuntry now. I feel awon friends of p and R sha dem clot dey kampe. but if someone feel say dem ne dey like dat ..e dey okay too now.

Anonymous said...

Hmm.. the high-waisted thing is interesting.. i won't pass any judgement on it till i actually try it out for myself... cos i mean i didn't think skinny jeans would work with my bow-legs..lol.. but strange enough.. its so hot that i don't even wear flared jeans anymore!!!... but since i dont wear long skirts(and totally hated those long gypsy skirts of last summer).. i'll probably just try highwaist in skinny jeans(cos ciara did look very hot in em in her promise or wateve its called new video).. i'd do it with heels but not those hooker heels she had on.. lol!.. the dude 4rom big brother is cute dayum.. and whao.. icant wait 2 cum back 2 naija and go clubbing.. it looks soo much fun!!!

GREAT HOT LIST THO>> BUT THEN AGAIN>> COMING FROM U>> WE EXPECT NO LESS!!!

Ms. May said...

Anonymous.....we RESPECT a difference of opinion AND we still say what we have to say without hiding. Brocolli made her comment and signed her name to it and the rest of us did the same. Put up or.....u know the rest!

Funmi said...

Bella well done! you always have sumthin cooking I am loving this hot list. Ebukaaaa is hatttttttttttt! I totally agree with Icy ( u need to own a P & R skirt to understand the feeling) same applies for Lanre's stuff (she is extremely creative)

Anonymous said...

tsk!tsk!. no vex. e no matter weda my name dey dere or not. na my opinion i give why the anger? chill out now. :) how u doin?

Anonymous said...

Ms. May, there are several anonymous on the sites. So, puhlease with the comment. It's only fashion, chill!

Also, Broccoli, Bella Naija and the likes are "anonymous"! We don't what their real names are.

A beg sha. I luv Bella Naija an have been following her. I also luv fashion Naija or not. It's okay for people to agree or disagree with a current look based on their body shape, personality or whatveva. Please keep it fun! I think the "Put up or . .. " is so not cool!

Anonymous said...

Seriously people! Y’all should take it easy on the broken English. Some of us do love reading your comments/opinions/thoughts etc but do not have a clue as to what B.E. means. The terminologies are too gigantic to disintegrate. So... remember to write in simple plain english. x x

Anonymous said...

^^then it's about time you learn pidgin english!

Adaure Achumba said...

lol...some of una don kolo finish!!!
I love P&R designs or versions... i like the fact that is it's about blending our culture with modern fashion. African fashion doesn't always have to be iro and buba, bou-bou and gele. Bigs up to P&R design team. By the way LOW who do I have to 'DO' to get my own 'sket'...seems like i'm the only one without one yet. Lol

Anonymous said...

luv the hot list. it reminded me of oprah and her favourite things! difference is we aint getting none huh? if i had to choose though i'll want the light blue skirt, who made it? my english friend saw it and made me promise i'll get it for when i come over this xmas. so please hook a sista up. good work

Anonymous said...

Another magical post. Bambuddha looks good. In Nigeria, more attention has always been paid to the exterior of buildings, with tacky and over elaborate interiors. This place looks so different.

Anonymous said...

The blue dress is fetching! I am very interested. Is there a designer or ?

Klara said...

O.K! Am down! This blog is da coolest! Wow! Where do u get this ideas!
U r makin me want 2 visit lagos and check in dat hot spot.

Funmi Iyanda said...

just found this blog, I LOVE IT. l know you admire my work and am grateful but this is not about mutual admiration (why the heck not) society but your blog rocks. Chimanada is a remarkable writer and a gorgeous person inside out Bolanle is a lovely trailblazer. l would marry Ebuka anyday and l,m off to Bambuda this weekend hopefully the attention to details in decor will translate to cuisine, service et al.
proud of you Bella!

Aramide said...

oooh funmi iyanda posted on ur blog, u shd be proud! Great post bella...keep em coming xx

Aramide said...

@ lola thanks for that bambuddha review, I will bear that in mind, when I go on my date next mth with that oyinbo guy that invited me lol (sorry tryin2 be funny obv not workin) xx

Icy PR said...

www.peridotandruby.com

Anonymous said...

Awe-inspiring site. very informative. check mine on www.augustetashiya.blogspot.com/

Lonely African said...

I was just being vain and googled my name. Saw some new stuff and this was one. I'm really flattered to be chosen as the so called hot man on the list! Wonder what the criteria was but I'm sure it was a a good one!
Who's Bella? Have we met or can we meet? You sound quite ingenious... and hey, I also host a game show on TV and write for Thisday every sunday!!!!
Good to be found here!

Anonymous said...

Bella nwa mama. Popsie and Momsie must be really proud of ya. (In all sincerity, no flatteries).

Chimamanda Adichie is a class act; a genius - way above her peers. How she did the research on the Biafran war and came out with the book, Half of a Yellow Sun is mind boggling, considering that she was not even born in that era, that is, the Biafran War times.

Anyway a genius is always a genius. ( i hope i got the spelling right?)

Take care care now, mami. As usual, ya blog is on point!