Why not forgo celebrating Valentine's Day in the present, and put the money towards something fun in the future. Maybe you could save up for a fancy meal at a swish restaurant, a weekend away in the countryside or an exciting city break in the UK. Alternatively, why not put the money towards a holiday abroad, or agree to use the spending money whilst you're away.
]]>The Oyin in Purple (currently on offer) is the perfect way to incorporate a splash of purple into your wardrobe. Match with The Ladun in Purple for the perfect co-ord. For men, why not try one of our gorgeous purple bow-ties: The Kunle.
Culture dictates fashion, and fashion creates culture. Sheer is here this Autumn, the sensuous use of this material being born from designers reflecting some of the garments worn in top series and films over the past year. Sexy and stylish, whether layered to create a chic look or used to create a sultry date night look, sheer is most definitely here to stay this autumn.
Looking for something Sheer to add to your wardrobe? Why not shop The Makena in beige and blue?
AW21 is all about body positivity and fashion that reflects that. Whilst autumn and winter usually signals the transition to baggy clothing to cover and conceal, this autumn the fashion world is telling us to embrace our bodies and our figures, to express ourselves through our clothing and to fall in love with those figure hugging garments again.
To accentuate your curves, discover our gorgeous range of bodycon dresses like The Ife.
A staple of the autumn/winter wardrobe, from tight knits to chunky knits, knitwear is a big must this year. Whether it's heavy thick jumpers, or lightweight dresses, knitwear is bringing that combination of style and comfort to our lives this autumn/winter.
For the perfect chic knitwear, try The Mide in multiple colours.
We missed out on Christmas parties and gatherings last year, so this year it's definitely time to make up for it, and our wardrobe is reflecting that. Ditch the comfy leggings and loungewear for a night and opt for a dazzling party dress or daring jacket worthy of a Christmas party.
Shop our gorgeous range of dresses for this year's Christmas party.
What better way to counteract the dull and dreary landscape of autumn and winter than a splash of colour therapy in our everyday wear. Bright bold colours are top of the list for this year's autumn/winter trends, and with the nights drawing in, what better way to inject a bit of colour and cheer into our lives than with statement colours in our wardrobe.
Eldimaa Fashion is famed for its bold and vibrant colours, check out all of our garments now!
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Sadly, the number of people who go missing every year is alarmingly high and many do not receive the media attention that they deserve. This is even more true when it comes to Black Communities, where too often a reaction from the media and authorities is severely lacking and the treatment they receive from these two entities is criminally below standard, resulting in a painful, stressful and anxious experience for families and communities. Missingblackpeople.com aims to help reunite families with their missing loved ones, and keeps the website updated with missing people so that we as a community can do our utmost to help bring people back together.
https://www.missingblackpeople.com/
Founded in 1979, Southall Black Sisters is made up of black and minority women who have spent over 40 years fighting for women's human rights. They have campaigned and challenged domestic and gender-related violence both in a local and national capacity, and there work became all the more important during the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdown bringing a new danger to victims of domestic violence and sought to be there for people during those difficult times and continue to be a constant voice, listener and advocate for all victims of gender-related violence.
https://southallblacksisters.org.uk/about/
The Windrush Scandal has gained a lot of notoriety over the past few years for the abhorrent treatment of Commonwealth citizens who settled in the UK decades ago, and have been threatened with deportation, lost their jobs and homes, been detained and been refused vital health and social assistance. The Windrush Foundation seeks to fight for those affected, and educate communities.
https://windrushfoundation.com/
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Following in his father’s footsteps, John David Washington has been making big strides within the cinematic universe, proving that he certainly inherited his father’s talent when it comes to the profession. One of Washington’s first starring roles was the Spike Lee film BlacKkKlansman, where he played leading character, and real-life icon, Ron Stallworth, a police officer who infiltrated the KuKluxKlan. Since then Washington has gone on to star in films such as the highly acclaimed Tenet, and looks to be continuing the family tradition of making a huge impact within the world of both cinema and theatre. The Washington legacy continues.
Jay Jaxon, who trained in prestigious fashion houses such as Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior, paved the way for designers like Virgil Abloh and Olivier Rousteing. Jaxon was famed for his success in France, one of the few African American designers to enjoy such success in the fashion capital, rescuing design house Jean Louis Scherrer from the brink of collapse in 1969 and becoming the first African American to become a head designer at a French couture house.
Considered to be Giorgio Armani’s protégé, Stella Jean is an Italian fashion designer and member of the Italian Chamber of Fashion. Jean has had a successful career within Italy, her blend of traditional Italian style fused with different cultures and influences making her one of the most influential women in Italian fashion. Having designed for the likes of Rihanna and Beyonce, Jean has also featured in V&A exhibitions and collaborated with the likes of Christian Louboutin. Jean is also the first and only Italian fashion designer to take to the stage at a BLM protest.
Famed for his work as CEO of Off-White, Virgil Abloh has been breaking boundaries in the fashion industry since his very first foray into the world of international fashion. Starting off in Chicago street fashion before bagging himself an internship at Fendi, Abloh has gone on to be one of the most renown fashion designers, and the first American of African descent to be artistic director at a French luxury fashion house, being named the Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton in 2018.
Donyale Luna was the first African-American model to appear on the front cover of British Vogue and has been cited as the first black supermodel. Luna, who enjoyed a successful career in the worlds of both fashion and film, is cited as one of the key figures for bringing about change in the world of fashion. Luna’s infamous 1966 Vogue cover enabled much more diversity within fashion modelling, paving the way for women and men of the future.
Another incredibly successful and powerful woman, Naomi Campbell’s long and illustrious career highlight just how influential she has been within the fashion industry. Famed for being one of the “big six”, a group of influential supermodels within the 90s, Campbell became the first black model to appear on the cover of French Vogue and was the first black model to appear on the illustrious September cover of American Vogue.
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How many times have you added something to your watchlist or told a friend, “I’ve been meaning to watch that.” There are only so many hours in a day, and often you find that committing hour after hour to a series or box-set can be difficult. Why not try and set yourself some time aside, where you can enjoy a moment of piece and quiet, watching your favourite show and munching on your favourite snacks.
Cooking and baking can be incredibly therapeutic, especially when you set some time aside to make a family favourite or an indulgent recipe. Put a bit of music on and loose yourself in a delicious recipe. If you opt for cooking, why not look into some tasty healthy recipes to look after your mind and body.
If this past year and a half has taught us anything, it’s the need to talk about our feelings. Whether that’s professionally, with family or friends, or writing your thoughts and feelings down in a diary, you’ll find not bottling things up is essential for your mental health and well-being, can feel therapeutic and make you feel much more at piece.
And breathe... The bank holiday weekend is finally here, which means you can finally enjoy a well deserved break, a chance to let your hair down and enjoy a few blissful days out of office. It's amazing what a difference that extra day makes, and the bank holiday weekend is the perfect opportunity to have a good time, as well as enjoy some TLC and relaxation.
Barbecues aren’t just about burgers and hot dogs, there is so much more that goes to making a good barbecue: from different meats, to daring marinades, delicious salads to all those added extras, here is our guide to hosting the perfect barbecue.
Not everyone is going to want or like the same thing, so it’s key to have variety when it comes to a barbecue. People often tend to focus on what meat they’re going to put on, and when someone asks “can I bring anything” it’s almost always sausages. So why not focus on what else you can bring to the menu. Supermarkets tend to focus on burgers, sausages and koftas, chicken kebabs and wings, why not cater to all dietary requirements by adding some extra things to the barbecue other than just meat.
Fish is GREAT on a barbecue, especially prawns, so why not try a combination of chilli and garlic, to get those prawns kicking. Wanting something a bit mellower, why not opt for a lemony marinade overnight? Not a fan of prawns? Salmon cooks beautifully on the barbecue and there are so many different ways you can prepare it. From a full piece of salmon cooked over a period of time with the lid down, to salmon fillets or even prepared as a kebab. Wrapping it in foil with some of your favourite flavour combinations can produce a succulent and deliciously flavoured piece of fish.
Vegetarian: It doesn’t just have to be bean burgers, why not try a halloumi veggie kebab, with cubes of the famous cheese intersecting pieces of pepper, red onion, either on its own or with a marinade (think chilli and soy). Why not try stuffed peppers, tomatoes, or griddle different vegetables to give them that gorgeous barbecue flavour.
TIP: We all love barbecued corn on the cob, why not try wrapping your corn in foil to make sure you don’t burn it.
Make sure you have a variety of drinks to suit all parties, both those who fancy an alcoholic drink and those who don’t. Cocktails and mock tails are a great way to make a variety of drinks for all parties without having to buy loads of ingredients. They’re also a greats summer drink and look pretty in the inevitable pictures that will be taken. Why not check out our guide to some of our favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes to give you inspiration for your dream barbecue garden party.
We don’t want to put a dampener on things, but with a barbecue, or indeed any occasion outdoors in the UK, you have to have a back up plan. Whether it’s a gazebo, an indoor space to eat, or an umbrella over the barbecue, make sure you’ve got a plan b in case the weather isn’t quite what you were hoping for. If all else fails, have an indoor barbecue by grilling your food in the oven, you’ll still have all the fun of the barbecue, just without the outdoors.
Why not make your own chilled out summer/barbecue playlist to serve as the backing track to your event? Don’t fancy the hassle, why not download a pre-made playlist on one of the music streaming services? Don’t forget to make sure there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained too, from outdoor games and sports, to fun board games or group games - barbecues are great because they can be whatever you want them to be: a great chance at family bonding, or a chance for the kids to let off steam whilst you enjoy some time being able to relax with your friends.
Decor isn’t a necessity but it’s sometimes fun to have an excuse to decorate your house ready for a special occasion. If you want to go for a more sophisticated look, smart lanterns or hanging lights are a go to, whilst for a more cutesy look you can opt for bunting and cute tea light holders.
TIP: Don’t forget Citronella candles, they’re perfect for keeping bugs and insects away.
Looking for the perfect barbecue outfit, why not shop our lockdown lifted edit.
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The Vanishing Half - Brit Bennett
Shortlisted for multiple awards including the Orwell Prize for Political Fiction, the Women’s Prize for Fiction and Fiction Book of the Year, The Vanishing Half is a hit second novel for Brit Bennett. Spanning the 1950s to the 1990s the book follows two estranged sisters, and explores racial identity, family and the influence of the past.
How to Kill Your Family - Bella Mackie
Following on from her successful debut book Jog on, the Vogue journalist’s new novel “How to Kill Your Family” is a laugh out loud, black satire story about family dysfunction and murder. Highly regarded as one of the best books of the year, it is a must read for those who love black satire.
You Are A Champion: How To Be The Best You Can Be -Marcus Rashford
Could there be a better role model for a young child than Marcus Rashford? Not only has he worked tirelessly to become one of the most talented footballers of his generation, but he also has a social conscious that has seen him be named the top of The Sunday Times Giving list and be a key figure in the fight for free school meals and reading amongst children. Incredibly popular amongst children of all ages, Marcus’s new book sure to be an enthralling read for any child.
Megamonster - David Walliams
Considered the modern day Roald Dahl, David Walliams’ books have been a favourite amongst children for many years, his books being adapted into tv programmes, films and plays. Megamonster is all set to be another classic, following the misadventures of a young school girl, that is sure to be a favourite with your little ones.
Girls Are Amazing: A Collection of Short Stories for Girls - Annabelle Lindgreen
With so many books oriented towards boys, Girls are amazing, with its 7 original stories aiming to encourage girls to be who they want to be, is the perfect read for the little girl in your life. Exploring themes of courage, love, happiness, mindfulness and strength, the stories inspire and empower young girls and really understands the emotions young girls go through.
The Underbelly Festival is making a comeback this year, however with a slightly different venue, Cavendish Square. Whilst dubbed a "foodie festival" thanks to its delicious array of street food (which should be enough to entice you), there is so much more to the Underbelly Festival, perfect for families and couples alike. With plays, discos and tv favourites for kids, and comedy, cabaret, drag and music for adults, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained, whether you're visiting with your children or nieces and nephews, or whether you're attending with a partner or friends.
If you enjoy the Underbelly Festival, you could visit their sister event, the London Wonderground at Empress Place in Earl's Court, where you will find alfresco dining, a city beach, vintage rides and a whole host of performances.
A hub of activity and home to some of the most famous seasonal events in the capital, Somerset House's infamous courtyard is transforming once again, this time into Dodge: a celebration of food, drink, art and dodgems, perfect for capturing the imagination of all age groups. Perfect for a swift visit, or for spending more time perusing the event together, Dodge will transform the Somerset House courtyard for the majority of the summer holidays.
After huge success and high demand, The Luna Cinema is back this year, with an array of different films on offer at parks and beautiful locations across the capital. Enjoy a dreamy experience of the big screen, with a host of classic films and fan favourites that are perfect for family evenings or date night. Enjoy your favourite films in stunning locations, bring a picnic and enjoy a moonlit experience unlike no other.
Visit Hampton Court Palace this summer to enjoy their magical children's attraction, The Magic Garden. Offering a unique way for your family to explore and learn about the history of the Palace, The Magic Garden is an exciting and adventurous children's playground is fun for all ages. Entry to The Magic Garden playground is included in your admission ticket to Hampton Court Palace, so you can make a full day of family fun adventures.
Cricket's new family-friendly format is coming to the capital this summer, with Lord's Cricket Ground and The Kia Oval playing host to the city's two franchises: London Spirit and The Oval Invincibles. Designed to attract more boys and girls into the sport, The Hundred will be played by both men and women, with double headers to ensure a full day of family fun, and DJ sets, live performances and fun activities to embrace the imagination and interest of your little ones.
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Whether you enjoy a dance in a nightclub, or you prefer heading to watch your favourite artists with your friends or partner, one of the big changes from July 19th is that music venues and nightclubs are reopening.
Having never reopened throughout the pandemic, it's safe to say a few of us may be a bit rusty when it comes to outfit preparation, so we thought we'd help out with some outfit inspiration.
Different places have different styles, different dress codes, but the one thing we can all agree is that nightclubs and music venues are HOT, so it’s best to dress accordingly.
Eldimaa Suggests: Why not opt for a stylish co-ord for your first trip back to the club. Cool and easy to style, the co-ord is perfect for dressing up or down, depending on the dress code. Midriffs have made a comeback (just ask Vogue) so you’ll be on trend with this gorgeous co-ord.
Festivals and outdoor events are allowed to return, with restrictions of no more than 30 people being lifted on Monday. With the rise of festivals like Coachella, these outdoor music events have become about so much more than just the music. It’s the opportunity to make a fashion statement, so why not invest in some brand new clothes for the ultimate festival vibes.
Eldimaa Suggests: Everyone loves a boho festival look, and the distinctive patterning on The Bola in Red, gives a chic bohemian nod to the classic style. Paired with a pair of shorts or a flowing skirt, this and our other versions of The Bola will be perfect for embracing that festival look.
If that’s not your style, why not turn to The Folu, our beautiful range of patterned skirts perfect for elevating your outfit to a 10/10 in seconds.
TOP TIP: The Lesedi is the perfect festival accessory, great for keeping you shaded from the sun without compromising your outfit.
Whilst weddings have been permitted throughout various stages of lockdown, for many the idea of their big day being toned down by restrictions has been enough to see a series of postponements across the country, as couples to be keep their fingers crossed for the big wedding of their dreams. They always call this time of year wedding season, and with so many postponements, it’s sure to be an even busier period for the industry, so it’s best to be prepared for those RSVPs.
Eldimaa Suggests: Dresses, dresses, dresses. Here at Eldimaa Fashion, we love a good dress and we have a whole range of outfits perfect for the wedding season. The Lola in particular is a great investment, this multi-way dress providing you with six different styles all in one, meaning that you can restyle the dress for different occasions and create a completely new outfit - perfect for wedding season!
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Leo (July 23 - August 22): Orange
Leo’s exude warmth and creativity, and what colour is more warming than that of orange. Characterised by their bold nature, it comes as no surprise that orange is one of Leo’s optimum colours, as it is sure to exude that bold, vibrancy that epitomises Leo’s nature.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22): Brown
One of the earth signs, Virgos and the colour brown are a match made in heaven. Virgos are characterised by their sense of calm in the middle of uncertainty, their adaptability to change and their ability to support those around them. As such, it is no surprise that earthy tones are a go to colour for Virgos.