May invites us into a state of reverence — a return to beauty as ritual and self-remembrance. This edit honours sacred care, clear vision, and the quiet confidence of showing up fully as ourselves.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about how often we treat beauty like a performance — something to present, prove, or perfect. But in truth, some of my most powerful, profoundly beautiful moments have been deeply private: massaging serums into my face while watching the sun rise, twisting my hair in silence, or choosing scents and colours that feel like home. These rituals aren’t about being seen — they’re about seeing myself, fully.
For African women, beauty has never been just surface-level. It has always been central: a language, a legacy, a way of being in rhythm with ourselves and the world around us. From the intricate rituals of skin and scent to the adornment of beads, corals, jewels and fabrics passed down through generations, our cultures have long held beauty as a portal — to connection, to care, to the divine.
This May, I’m returning to beauty as a sacred act — one rooted in pleasure, lineage, and intention. This Elevate & Illuminate edit is an ode to that return: to my own rhythms, reflections, and radiant truth.
These are my handpicked rituals, products, and pleasures for a meaningful May:
Beauty, Refined: embracing beauty through timeless favourites
Scent remains my favourite sense
Fragrance is more than a signature — it’s an experience that transcends the skin, inviting you into a space of intimacy and self-connection. The right scent doesn’t just linger in the air; it becomes part of you, a secret you carry, and a reminder of your presence in the world. This month, I’m drawn to fragrances that do more than please the senses — they nourish the soul. They are warm, enveloping, and utterly personal, like a ritual of self-affirmation in every breath.
They are:
Mousuf
₦25,000
Ard Al Zaafaran
I’ve been wearing Mousuf by Ard Al Zaafaran for months, and it’s become a constant in my routine. The opening notes of grapes and chocolate feel rich, almost decadent, but it’s the heart of musk and oud that really captures me — it’s deep, warm, and a bit mysterious. The base notes of toffee, tobacco, and florals are perfectly balanced, adding complexity without overwhelming the senses. Every time I wear it, I feel like I’m in my own space, completely centred and confident.
Chance Eau Spendide
€176
CHANEL
My friends at CHANEL sent me Chance Eau Spendid, and I’ve quickly fallen in love with it. It’s bright, fresh, and uplifting without feeling overpowering. The citrusy top notes bring an immediate burst of energy, while the heart of jasmine and patchouli adds a soft elegance that lingers. What I really love is how it evolves throughout the day. It feels light but never fleeting, like it’s always there, just beneath the surface. This gives me a sense of effortless confidence. It’s become my go-to when I want to feel both grounded and radiant at the same time.
Makeup will always be my first and best love
Makeup has always been more than just a way to enhance beauty — it’s a form of self-expression, a ritual, and a moment of creativity. I love it because it allows me to play, experiment, and connect to my inner self in a way nothing else does. Over time, I’ve found the products that I’m truly attached to — the ones that feel like an extension of me. These are my go-to makeup essentials, the ones I always reach for, whether I’m creating a bold statement or a soft, everyday look. They bring out the best in me, helping me feel both confident and beautiful.
My timeless favourites are:
The Colossal Volum’ Express Smoky Eyes
₦9,030
Maybelline
When I attended House of Tara makeup school in the summer of 2014, I discovered The Colossal Volum’ Express Smoky Eyes mascara, and it instantly became one of my favourites. The formula is incredibly volumising — it gives my lashes that bold, full look without the clumping. What I love most is the rich black pigment that really makes my eyes pop, giving them a smoky, dramatic effect that feels both sultry and powerful. Every swipe coats my lashes perfectly, adding instant volume and length. It’s one of those products that makes me feel effortlessly beautiful, whether I’m going for a soft look or something more intense.
Cheek Attitude
₦20,000
Beauty by AD
There’s no such thing as blush blindness in my house — we love colour, and blush is a staple. “Cheek Attitude” by Beauty by AD has quickly become a favourite because it’s so versatile. I love that it can be used as a cream, blush, and lipstick — it’s the perfect all-in-one product for a quick, vibrant look. The colour is rich, buildable, and gives me that healthy flush I’m always after, whether I’m just adding a touch of glow or going full-on bold. It’s one of those products that just makes me feel put-together and radiant in seconds.
To me, a bath is sacred
As an Ijaw woman, hygiene has always been an integral part of my culture. It’s not just a routine — it’s a ritual. First thing in the morning, before I encounter anyone, I make sure to clean my face, mouth, and privates. This simple act grounds me, ensuring I step into the world feeling pure and refreshed. For me, cleanliness is synonymous with beauty. It’s the foundation that allows me to feel my best. Right now, I’m using these specific products to maintain that sense of renewal — they’re my daily essentials for keeping my vessel clean and in balance.
These remind me that true beauty begins with how we care for ourselves, inside and out:
All about Clean Liquid Facial Soap in “Extra Mild”
₦61,600
Clinique
This scent is deeply invigorating — warm, bold, and full of life. The blend of almond, coffee, bergamot, and lemon creates a beautiful balance between comfort and energy, like a gentle wake-up call for the senses. I love massaging it into my skin after a bath; it lingers beautifully, leaving me feeling refreshed, recharged, and ready to take on the day.
Glow & Radiance Body Wash with Vitamin C and Citrus Essential Oils
₦11,200
Dr Teal’s
I can’t get enough of Glow & Radiance Body Wash with Vitamin C by Dr. Teal’s. The smell is absolutely divine — it’s like a burst of sunshine that stays with you long after you’ve rinsed off. It makes my morning routine feel luxurious and uplifting. Vitamin C not only brightens my skin but also gives me that fresh, rejuvenated feeling that sets the tone for the day. It’s become a staple for me — a quick yet indulgent way to feel clean, refreshed, and radiant.
Style, Elevated: for the love of leather
Again, you know I love a good bag
A bag is more than just a practical item — it’s an expression of identity, a piece of art that elevates your entire ensemble. I’m drawn to bags that marry form and function, where thoughtful craftsmanship meets bold design, with textures and colours that add personality to any outfit.
These bags aren’t just for carrying your essentials — they carry your essence:
Ava Hobo Bag in “Brown”
₦52,000
Lore Designs
The Ava Hobo Bag in “Brown” by Lore Designs is a true treasure. As soon as I smelled the rich leather, I was hooked. The scent is intoxicating, grounding me every time I carry it. What I love most is the space — this bag can hold almost everything! Whether it’s my essentials or extra items, there’s room for it all without feeling bulky. The smooth, supple leather only gets better with time, and the design is the perfect blend of practical and chic. It’s one of those bags that feels both stylish and effortless.
“Reno Clutch 1”
₦105,000
Mairachamp
This clutch is pure glamour in bag form! It’s so fancy — the kind of clutch that makes you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a moment of elegance. The craftsmanship is impeccable, and it elevates any look instantly. What I love most is the way it reminds me of shells, with its smooth, intricate design that feels both organic and luxurious. Whether it’s for a night out or a special event, this clutch adds that perfect touch of sophistication. It’s sleek, stylish, and undeniably chic, and I can’t help but feel like a star every time I carry it.
We’re stepping good over here
The perfect pair of shoes is like the frame to a masterpiece — they tie everything together and elevate your entire presence. It’s not just about comfort or style; it’s how they make you feel. When I find the right pair, they don’t just fit my feet — they frame me up perfectly, lifting my posture and giving me that extra dose of confidence. They’re the finishing touch that brings an outfit to life, making every step feel purposeful and poised. There’s something about the right shoes that just clicks and makes you feel like you’re walking in your true power.
These are my favourite pairs at the moment:
Women's platform sandal with Horsebit in “Light Green Suede”
$1,190
Gucci
I saw these Women’s Platform Sandals with Horsebit in “Light Green Suede” by Gucci at my aunt’s, and I fell in love IMMEDIATELY. Now this is a SHOE. The suede, the bold platform, and that iconic Horsebit detail come together in the most effortless yet elevated way. They’re the kind of shoes that take you from casual to chic in an instant, and the light green is just the perfect pop of colour.
Nulu sandals in “Brown”
₦155,000
by Kkerele
I have these “Nulu” sandals by Kkerele in burgundy, and I adore them — but they’re now a bit too big since I’ve lost weight. So, the brown pair are definitely on my radar now! I’m loving the rich, earthy tone of the brown — it’s the perfect balance of sleek and laid-back. The sandals are so comfortable, and the design is effortlessly chic, with that perfect mix of minimalism and style. I can already see myself slipping into them for everything from casual outings to dressier moments. They’re just a staple I can see myself wearing for years.
Mindful Living: as within, as without
The healing power of aromatherapy
Scent has always been medicine to me. As someone who finds grounding through ritual, I’ve come to rely on fragrance as a form of aromatherapy. They’re a way to soothe the nervous system, clear mental fog, and invite emotional clarity. Certain notes instantly settle me: lavender for calm, citrus for energy, sandalwood when I need to feel anchored. Whether it’s oils in the bath, sprays on my pillow, or a subtle roll-on before bed, scent is how I reset, how I regulate, how I return.
These are the aromatic rituals helping me stay centred — body, mind, and spirit:
Reed diffuser “Khan” by Rékojá
₦17,500
Rékojá
This scent makes the whole room feel like a deep exhale. “Khan” has this rich, grounding presence — warm without being heavy, like someone just lit incense in a quiet, sacred space. I keep it by my bedside or sometimes in the entryway, so I’m greeted with calm the moment I walk in. It’s the kind of scent that lingers softly in the air, creating an atmosphere that feels both elegant and emotionally safe. Every time I catch a whiff, I feel more anchored, more at home in myself.
Braided Eco Candle
₦79,200
Olive Gergel
This was a gift from my friends at Mirrors Beauty — and what a gift. The scent is soft, earthy, and enveloping, like the warmth of a familiar hug. I light it when I need to soften into my space, when I want my home to feel like a sanctuary. There’s something about the way it burns — slow, intentional, clean — that mirrors the kind of energy I’m cultivating. Plus, the braided design? Absolutely gorgeous. It’s functional beauty at its best.
Nature’s beauty, anchored at home
I don’t always have the luxury of being outdoors for long stretches, but I’ve found my own way to stay rooted. Plants and flowers have become my soft ritual — a way to anchor nature within my walls. A fresh bloom on the table, a leafy green by the window, even dried florals in warm-toned vases — they shift the energy of a space instantly. They breathe, they soften, they remind me to care and be cared for. It’s beauty that lives, changes, and gently brings me back to myself. In caring for these plants, I’m reminded that beauty, like nature, thrives in patience and presence — rooted, flourishing, sacred.
These are my home plant buddies:
Spider Plant
₦16,000
Nkasi Obi Lifestyle
This one was a gift from my friend Tobi, and I’ve been minding her like the leafy little baby she is. She’s due for a repot soon — stretching out in all directions like she’s trying to tell me something. There’s something so grounding about caring for a plant, watching it respond to love, light, and water. I keep her near the window, and every time I walk by, I smile. It’s the perfect plant for anyone looking to cultivate mindfulness — gentle, low-maintenance, and a beautiful reminder to slow down and tend to life, one leaf at a time.
Pinktastic Bouquet
₦88,000
Thelmz Flower Shop
You don’t need an occasion to gift yourself something as beautiful as this. Every time I treat myself to a bouquet, I’m reminded that I’m worthy of the same love and care I give to others. The Pinktastic Bouquet is pure joy — vibrant, lush, and full of life. It’s the kind of bouquet that lights up any room and makes me feel like the gorgeous girl I am. No special reason needed — just a little reminder to surround myself with beauty, always.
The Season’s Affirmations
Affirmations are more than just words; they are anchors that keep us grounded and aligned with our deepest truths. For May, these affirmations reflect the themes of beauty as a sacred ritual, rhythm, and self-remembrance. They are designed to guide you toward living with purpose and focus, honouring your identity and intentions. Attention is your currency — where you direct it shapes your reality, and identity is the concentration — the unwavering connection to who you are. As you move through May, let these affirmations guide you in self-empowerment, balance, and beauty in all its forms:
1.
My beauty is a devotion to myself.
2.
I honour my body as a temple of grace, pleasure, and presence.
3.
Each act of beautifying brings me closer to who I truly am.
4.
Adorning myself is a sacred ritual of self-love and remembrance.
5.
My beauty is rooted, radiant, and deeply mine.
6.
I return to myself through care, touch, and intention.
7.
To be beautiful is to be aligned with my spirit.
8.
I cherish the joy of tending to myself with reverence.
9.
My daily rituals are gateways to inner peace and outer glow.
10.
In beauty, I come home to myself — again and again.
In May, we celebrate sacred beauty: Honouring the essence of African women
As we step into May, we enter our first beauty issue — a milestone that feels both powerful and sacred. For African women, beauty is more than just skin deep; it’s a celebration of heritage, strength, and identity.
It’s an affirmation of our divine essence, deeply rooted in culture and in the love we pour into ourselves and each other. This edit of Elevate & Illuminate is a collective celebration of that truth, a moment to honour not only how we look but how we feel, how we nurture, and how we connect to the world around us.
We are embracing beauty in all its authentic, radiant forms, as a way of reclaiming our narratives and elevating ourselves as we truly are.
Welcome to our Beauty Issue.
Love always,
