Elevate & Illuminate: Only the best to begin your January

Welcome to 2026!

The calendar has turned, and with it comes that familiar mix of anticipation and hesitation. January has always been a study in contrasts. There are those who wake up ready to sprint; planners open, goals sharpened, momentum already humming. And then there are those who are still thawing, stretching slowly into the year, unsure of their footing but certain they’re not ready to rush just yet. Wherever you find yourself on that spectrum, know this: there is no wrong way to begin.

As we step into 2026, this month is about gathering what already works and making space for what’s next. It’s about returning to the old faithfuls from 2025 — the rituals, ideas, and comforts that held you steady — while also welcoming the rising stars in my world: fresh perspectives, new inspirations, and beginnings that feel just a little electric. Not everything needs to be new, but something gets to be.

In this edit of Elevate & Illuminate, I’m bringing you the best to begin your year — pieces chosen to support you whether you’re moving quickly or easing in gently. A new year doesn’t demand reinvention on day one. Progress will meet you at your pace.

Skincare

A bottle of “P-Tiox” by Skinceuticals against a white background via skinceuticals.com.

P-Tiox

$150

Skinceuticals

I love this because it targets heat-induced inflammation, which is one of the biggest reasons dark spots show up — especially for women living in the tropics.

Shop at Skinceuticals
A jar of ‘Restoring Body Butter’ by 24.8 skin by Aisha against an off-white background via @24.8skinbyaisha on Instagram

Restoring Body Butter

₦8,000

24.8 skin by Aisha

Divinely scented and incredibly gentle, this body butter deeply nourishes the skin. The rose-hip and goji berry notes linger softly, leaving skin smooth and beautifully scented for hours.

Shop at 24.8 Skin by Aisha
A tube of Bolden’s “F-Hydra Moisturizer” against a white background via beautyhutafrica.com.

F-Hydra Moisturizer

₦36,190

Bolden

This ultra-concentrated moisturiser truly proves that less is more. Just a pea-sized amount delivers deep hydration, leaving the skin nourished, balanced, and resilient all day long.

Shop at Beauty Hut Africa

Even ONSKN Serum

$53

ONSKN

This is a game changer for hyperpigmentation. I deeply appreciate skincare formulated with melanated skin at the forefront, and if that matters to you too, ONSKN is for you.

Shop at ONSKN
A bottle of Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum With Melasyl™ + Niacinamide by La Roche-Posay via beautyhutafrica.com

Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum With Melasyl™ + Niacinamide

₦63,550

La Roche-Posay

This serum is my trusted solution for intensive dark spot care and skin barrier repair. It delivers powerful results while supporting overall skin health, earning its place as a cornerstone of my nighttime recovery ritual.

Shop at Beauty Hut Africa
10% Niacinamide + 4% TXA Acid Serum Eye by Anua against a white background via KBeauty.com

10% Niacinamide + 4% TXA Acid Serum

₦18,000

Anua

A true hydration hero! This is a total lifesaver for hydration and pigmentation. It calms irritation, brightens dullness, and keeps skin supple. I will always have this in my itinerary.

Shop at My Lab Africa

Fragrance

A bottle of Matsukita by Clive Christian against a white background via clivechristian.com

Matsukita

£400

Clive Christian

Matsukita is a true showstopper, blending sparkling citrus and soft florals into a scent that feels effortlessly luminous and refined. It’s the kind of fragrance that turns heads and invites questions — elegant, distinctive, and impossible to forget.

Shop at Clive Christian
A bottle of Alien Hypersense by Mugler via essenza.ng

Alien Hypersense

₦‎271,000

Mugler

This scent captivated me the moment I discovered it in Milan. It’s truly intoxicating, with seductive jasmine sambac lifted by a bright pear note that keeps it bold, balanced, and unforgettable.

Shop at Essenza
A bottle of BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF by CHANEL via chanel.com

BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF

$275

CHANEL

The newest addition to the BLEU DE CHANEL family is easily my favourite. It has a deeper, more enveloping character that feels refined and confident, with a richness that sets it apart while still staying true to the signature BLEU DNA.

Shop at CHANEL
A bottle of Philosykos by Diptyque against a white background via diptyqueparis.com

Philosykos

$255

Diptyque

Earthy and deeply sensual, this fragrance evokes the warmth of sun-kissed skin under a fig tree, creating a creamy-fresh balance that lingers with understated elegance.

Shop at Diptyque
A bottle of Flowerbomb Ruby Orchid by Viktor&Rolf via essenza.ng

Flowerbomb Ruby Orchid

₦‎289,500

Viktor&Rolf

This is pure feminine energy in a bottle — sweet, powdery, and confidence-boosting. Juicy peach and vine open the scent, soft orchid blooms at the heart, and a warm vanilla base lingers beautifully, striking the perfect balance between playful and polished.

Shop at Essenza
A bottle of CHANEL’s “Chance Eau Spendide” against a white background via CHANEL

Chance Eau Spendide

€176

CHANEL

This scent is bright, fresh, and uplifting with its sparkling citrus and a soft, elegant heart of jasmine and patchouli. What I love most is how it wears throughout the day giving me an easy, understated confidence that feels both radiant and grounded.

Shop at CHANEL

Makeup

Arielle Eyeshadow Palette by Yanga Beauty against a white background via girlyessentials.com.ng

Arielle Eyeshadow Palette

₦13,500

Yanga Beauty

This eyeshadow palette is pure creative joy. The vibrant, highly pigmented shades instantly spark my imagination, making it my go-to for playful, expressive looks that remind me beauty should always be fun.

Shop at Yanga Beauty
Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder Full by One Size via mirrorsbeauty.com

Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder

₦‎79,200

One Size

For an effortlessly polished finish, this has become a true staple for me. It smooths and blurs the skin beautifully, with minimal creasing even on the busiest days, making it the perfect final touch for makeup that stays flawless and confidence that lasts.

Shop at Mirrors Beauty
Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder by Danessa Myricks against a white background via beautyhutafrica.com

Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder

₦74,600

Danessa Myricks

This is the ultimate skin-smoothing essential. It instantly blurs pores, softens texture, and balances shine, creating a refined, velvety canvas. Worn alone or under makeup, it perfects the skin and grips product beautifully, making it the ideal base for a flawless, long-lasting finish.

Shop at Beauty Hut Africa
Primer by Bellazuri via bellazuri.com

Primer

$7.45

Bellazuri

If you have dry skin like I do, it’s a real game changer, preventing that tight, parched feeling after baking and helping everything stay crease-free from morning to night.

Shop at Bellazuri
A tube of Super Stay Vinyl Ink Longwear Liquid Lipstick in “55 Royal” by Maybelline against a white background via beautyhutafrica.com

Super Stay Vinyl Ink Longwear Liquid Lipstick in “55 Royal”

₦16,000

Maybelline

A bold, fierce red, this is a true power lipstick. Whether you’re hitting the club or stepping out for a board meeting, this is the lipstick to spark your confidence. A favourite in my books!

Shop at Essenza
A tube of Fenty Beauty’s Gloss Bomb Heat Universal Lip Luminizer + Plumper in “Fenty Glow Heat” via essenza.ng

Gloss Bomb Heat Universal Lip Luminizer in “Fenty Glow Heat”

₦47,000

Fenty Beauty

Again, I love a good gloss — and this is a great one. It delivers high shine with a smooth, plumping finish, and that warm rosy tint melts seamlessly into the lips while catching the light beautifully. One swipe is all it takes to understand why it’s so addictive.

Shop at Essenza

Clothing

A Stacy Knit Halter Maxi Dress in “Purple/Red” by Mekshi against a white background via meshki.com.au

Stacy Knit Halter Maxi Dress in “Purple/Red”

$169

Mekshi

The halter neckline brings instant, effortless chic, while the bold mix of vibrant purple and fiery orange is what really steals the spotlight. It pops beautifully against every skin tone.

Shop at Mekshi
A Collared Plunge Blouse in “Mermaid” by Laina Rauma against a white background via lainarauma.com

Collared Plunge Blouse in “Mermaid”

$220

Laina Rauma

When it comes to fun, expressive tops, this one truly stands out. The iridescent fabric catches the light beautifully, shifting colours with every movement, while the plunge neckline adds a refined, elevated touch that makes it feel effortlessly special.

Shop at Laina Rauma
A Teri Crochet Dress in Mustard by Andrea Iyamah against a white background via andreaiyamah.com

Teri Crochet Dress in “Mustard”

₦516,300

Andrea Iyamah

When I want something that feels as good as it looks, this is my go-to. The relaxed crochet knit is soft and effortless, while the rich mustard shade adds a bold, uplifting pop to any travel wardrobe. It’s perfect for slow hotel mornings, easy brunches, or chic poolside moments.

Shop at Andrea Iyamah
Ajoke Set by Motthelabel against a white background via motthelabel.com

Ajoke Set

₦240,000

Motthelabel

I don’t usually gravitate toward denim, but this set completely won me over. It feels surprisingly soft and comfortable against the skin. The vibrant shades of blue add just the right amount of richness, making it both striking and effortless to wear.

Shop at Motthelabel
An Aya Striped Fringe Robe Dress by Kílẹ̀ńtàr against a white background via kilentar.com

Aya Striped Fringe Robe Dress

₦722,200

Kílẹ̀ńtàr

This piece perfectly captures my style ethos: bold structure, vibrant colour, and thoughtful detail. It’s playful yet commanding — a piece that makes a statement without ever softening its strength.

Shop at Kílẹ̀ńtàr
A Mermaid Dress in “Purple” by Bawsty against a white background via Bawsty.com

Mermaid Dress in “Purple”

₦40,000

Bawsty

I love this dress not only for its stunning colour, but because it’s a Bawsty piece. Effortlessly chic and beautifully made, the iridescent purple mermaid silhouette flatters curves in the most confident, celebratory way.

Shop at Bawsty

Jewellery

Kofo Chunky Long Necklace by Refaíní against a white background via refaini.com

Kofo Chunky Long Necklace

₦250,000

Refaíní

A true statement piece. This 18ct gold-plated brass necklace commands attention with its bold design and luminous tourmaline detail. It instantly elevates any look with confidence, polish, and undeniable presence.

Shop at Refaíní
Bee Stud in “Gold” by Onalaja against a white background via onalaja.com

Bee Stud in “Gold”

$129.00

Onalaja

These are such a special find. They strike that rare balance of subtle and symbolic; easy enough to wear every day, yet rich with meaning for anyone who loves bold, expressive style and a touch of Beyoncé-inspired energy.

Shop at Onalaja
Schiaparelli’s Eyes Rhinestone Earrings against a white background via schiaparelli.com

Eyes Rhinestone Earrings

€1 ,850

Schiaparelli

I’m completely obsessed with the Eyes Rhinestone Earrings by Schiaparelli. The iconic eye motif, drenched in shimmering rhinestones, feels bold, surreal, and impossibly chic.

Shop at Schiaparelli
Kofo Earrings by Refaíní via refaini.com against a white background

Kofo Earrings

₦180,000

Refaíní

Part of Refaíní’s Kofo set, these earrings deliver impact without the weight. Bold yet refined, they’re designed to stand out while remaining effortlessly comfortable — the kind of piece you can wear all day and still feel polished and powerful.

Shop at Refaíní
Ruby Neck Cuff by Unrefyned against a white background via @unrefyned_ on Instagram

Ruby Neck Cuff

₦45,000

Unrefyned

This piece is anchored by a bold, captivating gemstone that instantly draws the eye. Crafted with sustainability at its core, it blends conscious design with undeniable impact; powerful, refined, and made to be worn with intention.

Shop at Unrefyned
Sunflower Earrings against a white background via curioclass.cc

Sunflower Earrings

₦29,500

Curioclass

I love sunflowers, and these make me smile every time. They’re bright, cheerful, and bring such an easy burst of joy to any look.

Shop at Bawsty

Bags

The Veron bag by Isianola against a white background via isianola.com

The Veron bag

€624.75

ISIANOLA

The Veron Bag is ISIANOLA’s signature debut and the hero of the IYEMI TRILOGY. Limited to 100 numbered pieces, each is handcrafted in Naples by master artisans using generational techniques. Sculptural and powerful, it’s an instant classic designed to endure.

Shop at ISIANOLA
A Ciao Ciao in “Barolo” by Bottega Veneta against a white background via bottegaveneta.com

Ciao Ciao in “Barolo”

$5,900

Bottega Veneta

This bag truly lives rent-free in my head. The craftsmanship is impeccable, from the intrecciato tramezza to the signature knot, and the gold hardware is truly the finishing touch.

Shop at Bottega Veneta
Artemis Bag by 21 Wool Street against a white background via 21woolstreet.bumpa.shop

Artemis Bag

₦75,000

21 Wool Street

I’m completely taken with this piece. Named after the moon goddess, this silver stunner truly lives up to the title. It’s bold, luminous, and impossible to ignore, adding instant pizzazz to any ensemble.

Shop at 21 Wool Street
Goldie Bag by Gbemisoke against a white background via gbemisokeshoes.com

Goldie Bag

₦45,000

Gbemisoke

Crafted in beautiful leather, it’s the sculptural statement handle that truly steals the show for me. It’s bold, elegant, and instantly eye-catching. This is the kind of bag that elevates any look effortlessly, blending refined craftsmanship with undeniable presence.

Shop at Gbemisoke
Erika Bag in “Wine” by Steve Madden against a white background via stevemadden.com

Erika Bag in “Wine”

$108

Steve Madden

The bag’s deep wine tone is rich and intentional, and the design feels bold without trying too hard. It’s the kind of bag that sharpens a look instantly while still being easy to live with.

Shop at Unrefyned
An Ava Hobo Bag in “Brown” by Lore Designs against a white background via lore-designs.com

Ava Hobo Bag in “Brown”

₦57,000

Lore Designs

This bag is an absolute lifesaver for me. I use it almost every day. It fits everything I need without feeling bulky, and its rich leather scent still gets me every time. It’s practical, chic, and only gets better with wear.

Shop at Lore Designs

Shoes

Reflect Amoeba in “Red” by KiingDaviids against a white background via kiingdaviid.com

Reflect Amoeba in “Red”

₦110,000

KiingDaviids

From the bold colour to the vibrant leather, every detail of these shoes is full of personality. KiingDaviids really understands how to create statement footwear, and this pair is proof. It’s striking and confident.

Shop at KiingDaviids
The Gaze Mules in “Gold” by Kora Shoes against a white background via @korashoesng via Instagram

Gaze Mules in “Gold”

₦95,000

Kora Shoes

These are one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes I’ve ever worn!

Shop at Kora Shoes
Pierced Mule in “Tory Red / Silver” by Tory Burch against a white background via toryburch.com

Pierced Mule in “Tory Red / Silver”

$398

Tory Burch

God, I can’t express how much I LOVE these! They’re the perfect combination of comfort and style — you can throw them on with anything and instantly feel more polished.

Shop at Tory Burch
The Women’s Horsebit platform sandal in “yellow patent leather” by Gucci against a white background via gucci.com

Women’s Horsebit platform sandal in “yellow patent leather”

€950

Gucci

There’s nothing quite as iconic as a Gucci platform, and this one is pure joy. The bold horsebit detail paired with glossy yellow patent leather makes it bright, unapologetic, and instantly uplifting.

Shop at Gucci
Vlogo Signature Slide Sandal With Crochet Embroidery 60Mm by Valentino a white background via valentino.com

Vlogo Signature Slide Sandal With Crochet Embroidery 60Mm

$1,100

Valentino

The crochet embroidery is the standout for me; beautifully detailed, artisanal, and so special. They strike that perfect balance between all-day comfort and understated luxury, making them an easy, elegant go-to.

Shop at Valentino
roro in “burgundy” against a white background via kkerele.com

roro in “burgundy”

₦185,000

kkerele

This bag is an absolute lifesaver for me. I use it almost every day. It fits everything I need without feeling bulky, and its rich leather scent still gets me every time. It’s practical, chic, and only gets better with wear.

Shop at Lore Designs

Wellness

Outsmarting Reality by NERO KNOWLEDGE against a white background via amazon.com

Outsmarting Reality

$12.46

Nero Knowledge

I discovered Nero Knowledge’s work in December 2024, and it genuinely shifted my perspective in a profound way. This book challenges you to rethink limits, break through mental barriers, and actively shape your own reality. If you’re serious about growth and expansion, it’s a must-read.

Shop at Amazon
Room Mist in “Breezy Mugget & Sea Salt” against a white background via @dekeliving on Instagram

Room Mist in “Breezy Mugget & Sea Salt”

₦32,000

Deke Living

This scent is everything to me. Fresh, airy, and enthralling, I never travel without it — Joburg, PH, Abidjan, everywhere. One spray instantly makes any space feel calm, clean, and like home.

Shop at Deke Living
Natural Benefits: Immune by Ahmad Tea against a white background via ahmadteang.com

Natural Benefits: Immune

₦3,000

Ahmad Tea

If travel tends to knock your system off balance like it does mine, this tea is essential. I always pack a few sachets because it gently supports my immunity while offering a calming, familiar ritual wherever I am. One warm cup helps me reset, recharge, and feel grounded.

Shop at Ahmad Tea
A flatlay of “The Power of Awareness” by Neville Goddard against a white background. Image via Amazon

The Power of Awareness

$5.99

Neville Goddard

There’s nothing quite as iconic as a Gucci platform, and this one is pure joy. The bold horsebit detail paired with glossy yellow patent leather makes it bright, unapologetic, and instantly uplifting.

Shop at Amazon
he Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid against a white background via rhbooks.com.ng

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

₦13,000

Taylor Jenkins Reid

Easily my favourite read of 2025. Glamorous, imaginative, and deeply inspiring, Evelyn’s unapologetic ambition and strategic brilliance stayed with me long after the last page, reshaping how I think about resilience, authenticity, and living life entirely on your own terms.

Shop at Roving Heights
Rose Quartz by RA Tribe against a white background via ratribeng.com

Rose Quartz

₦8,000

RA Tribe

Rose quartz is all about love – and I love love!

Shop at RA Tribe

The Season’s Affirmations

 

1.

I am building momentum at a pace that supports my life, not drains it.

2.

I am allowed to move slowly and still be deeply committed to my growth.

3.

I am honouring my energy by choosing alignment over urgency.

4.

I am making progress in ways that feel patient, intentional, and true to me.

5.

I am trusting that clarity arrives in its own time, often quietly and right on schedule.

6.

I am creating space to live, learn, breathe, and become as I move forward.

7.

I am resilient, even when my journey unfolds in small, steady steps.

8.

I am beginning again without pressure, guided by curiosity instead of fear.

9.

I am confident that warmth, motivation, and momentum will return when I am ready to receive them.

10.

I am already on my way, supported, capable, and moving forward in my own powerful way. 

You’re already on your way

Momentum doesn’t have a single shape. Some journeys are built across a thousand small, patient steps; others unfold in a hundred deliberate ones. Neither is better. Neither is behind. What matters is that your pace is sustainable — that it leaves room for living, for learning, for breathing. This is how we avoid burnout: by choosing alignment over acceleration, and progress that supports us rather than drains us.

This January, I invite you to begin again, softly or decisively, with curiosity instead of pressure. To trust that momentum can be built. To trust that warmth will return. To trust that clarity will come; often quietly, often later than expected, but always in its own time. However you choose to start, however slow or swift your steps may be, you are already on your way.

And as the year unfolds, know this: you are not walking it alone. I’m right here, rooting for you — for your becoming, your patience, and the steady courage it takes to keep going in your own way.

lazyload

Author

  • lazyload

    The Siren of the South, Denise is Editor-in-Chief at Marie Claire Nigeria. An astrologer, singer, and tarot reader, she is passionate, spirited, and vivacious. Denise enjoys sitting by the ocean, and can often be found dancing to music only she seems to hear, laughing at out-of-pocket posts, or speaking to plants.

    View all posts
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