Category: trending

How to hide signs of a cold with make-up and skincare

Did you wake up with a nasty cold? There’s no need to look like death warmed up – these beauty tips and products will erase the signs of illness and restore health to your complexion.

Red nose, chapped lips, puffy face, a pale complexion – these are just a few of the beauty woes that come with a cold. Make-up may not be your top priority when you’re seriously under the weather, but once you’re over the worst it’s time to breathe some life back into your complexion. Here are a few clever tips and products to help you look better than you feel. 

Make sure you’re using a rich cream

A rich, nourishing cream will soothe parched skin and restore your natural glow. If your skin is dry and irritated, add a few drops of facial oil to your everyday face cream and pat it into your skin for an extra moisture boost.

 Placecol Illuminé Reviving Oil 15ml 450; Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream  50ml 295 SHOP NOW; Clarins Hydra-Essentiel 640 SHOP NOW

Grab a soothing balm 

The sensitive skin around your lips and nose is hit hard by a cold, and may appear red, inflamed and chapped. Protect and repair it with an intensely nourishing balm that seals in moisture and helps your skin bounce back quickly.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant 50ml 315 SHOP NOW; Nuxe Reve de Miel Super Baume 475; Bobbi Brown Extra Soothing Balm 1050 SHOP NOW

Boost radiance with hydrating foundations

Consider hydrating foundations and tinted moisturisers your skin’s new best friends. These hardworking products revive a dull, uneven complexion, giving your skin a healthy colour boost while erasing signs of fatigue.

 Inglot Beautifier Tinted Cream 399 (Exclusive to Edgars); MAC Lightful C + Coral Grass Tinted Cream SPF 30 With Radiance Booster 560 SHOP NOW; Clarins Skin Illusion SPF 15 515 SHOP NOW

Colour correct with concealer

A concealer is essential when trying to disguise the aftermath of a cold. While hydrating foundations and tinted moisturisers go a long way to conceal shadows and red blotches, colour correctors target specific skin problems. A yellow-based concealer diminishes purple or blue under-eye circles; green-based concealers neutralise redness around the nose; and an apricot-hued concealer brightens the skin for a fresh, healthy look.

Clarins SOS Primer Diminish Redness 425 SHOP NOW; Sisley Instant Correct in Just Rosy 1110 (Exclusive to Edgars) SHOP NOW; Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer 495 SHOP NOW



Use a waterproof mascara 

Sneezes and sniffles mean watery eyes, so keep eye make-up simple with soft, brightening eyeshadow instead of eyeliner, which might smudge during the day. Use a light coat of waterproof mascara to help revive and ‘open’ your eyes.

Kelso Beauty Waterproof Mascara 159.95 (Exclusive to Edgars) SHOP NOW; Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara 360 SHOP NOW; Givenchy Noir Couture Volume Waterproof Mascara 610 SHOP NOW



Add a pop of colour to cheeks and lips

Nothing lifts a dull complexion more than a pop of colour. Blush is a must to give cheeks a healthy flush and bring your complexion back to life. Creamy, hydrating formulas will blend easily into your skin and give it a dewy finish, as opposed to powder blushes that may accentuate dryness. As for colour, go for peachy shades. These hues instantly perk up sallow-looking skin. Avoid red tones as these may emphasise blotchiness. Use a tinted balm or nourishing lipstick on lips for a healthy, protective glow.

Chanel Coco Rouge Flash in Furtive 645; Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick Sheer Tint SPF15 in Blush 255 SHOP NOW; Dolce & Gabbana The Creamy Blush In Rosa Aurora 930 (Exclusive to Edgars)

SHOP BEAUTY


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All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

AW19 Lookbook: Colour & Print Trends

We highlight two of the biggest trends this season – mustard and animal print – and how you can get in on the action.

Two of the hottest trends this autumn/winter just happen to be two of our favourite obsessions at the moment – mustard and animal print. We dive into what we love most about these trends, and the best ways to wear them.

THE TRENDS ON OUR RADAR

Move over, millennial pink – mustard is where it’s at! First lauded as ‘Gen Z yellow’ by Man Repeller’s Deputy Editor Hayley Nahman, this sunny, unadulterated hue conveys feelings of zeal, optimism and hope, and isn’t showing signs of disappearing anytime soon. Pantone Color Institute announced ‘Aspen Gold’ as one of its colours for 2019, and soon after we witnessed the bright shade pop up on runways at shows by Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera. Bright yellows pervaded at this year’s New York Fashion Week, and numerous celebrities followed suit, with Constance Wu channelling Beauty and the Beasts Belle with her yellow tulle dress to the 91st Academy Awards and Rachel Brosnahan sporting the same controversial colour at this year’s Golden Globe Awards.
On the print spectrum, leopard print has always been the go-to when it comes to sporting something a little bit wild and animalistic. However, this trend has evolved further than the leopard-print staple and in 2019, snakeskin is being taken for a test drive on catwalks and city streets around the world. Forming part of the runway trends for 2019, mustard and animal print are bang on-trend. We show you how to ace these trends.

HOW TO INCORPORATE THESE TRENDS INTO YOUR EVERYDAY WARDROBE

When introducing mustard to your wardrobe, it’s best worn with wine-red hues of burgundy, plum and maroon. Add a punch of mustard to your outfit in the form of leather boots, parkas, puffer jackets, plaid and retro corduroy button-down skirts. Being less flashy than its classic yellow cousin, mustard is an exciting alternative to the neutral tones that tend to dictate our autumn wardrobes. Keep your accessories minimal to let it take centre stage – this is a colour that doesn’t want to compete for attention.
MAX: JX lined-collar denim jacket 899.95; JX crew knit 299.95; D66 check suit pants 499.95; Dr. Martens embossed boots 3299.
DEJA: Free 2BU leopard-print shirt 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU PU leather skirt 299.95.
https://mag.edgars.co.za/2019/02/congrats-youve-found-hidden-patchwork.html
Free 2BU slouchy knit 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU leopard-print shirt 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU PU leather skirt 299.95; Free 2BU palm-leaf earrings 79.95; Free 2BU rings (part of set) 79.95; Free 2BU chunky combat boots 559.95 SHOP NOW

SHOP THE TREND

Animal print will soon become your new favourite neutral. Snakeskin trousers are taking the place of plaid and check pants, which usually serve as a dependable workwear staple. While it may seem a little out-there for some, this racy print works best with a clean-lined, tailored pair of pants that showcases a timeless silhouette and contrasts well against its loud nature. For the less brave, simply grab a clutch bag to pop against an all-black outfit or dip your toe into the trend with a pair of neutral-hued block-heeled snakeskin boots. The trick here is too choose items that pick up in the colours of the print. For example, classic snakeskin would work effortlessly with beige, grey, white and even mustard (layer a mustard jersey over a leopard print shirt) so don’t be afraid to pair the hot hue with animal print.
MAX: JX lined-collar denim jacket 899.95; JX crew knit 299.95; D66 check suit pants 499.95; Dr. Martens embossed boots 3299.
DEJA: Free 2BU leopard-print shirt 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU PU leather skirt 299.95.

SHOP THE TREND

QUICK-FIRE TIPS & TRICKS TO GETTING THESE TRENDS RIGHT

● Try not to wear either trend from top to bottom, unless you’re looking to make a specific fashion statement. If this is the case, then opt for a tailored pants suit.
● The key to pulling off animal print with class is all in the silhouette – steer clear of the print in items that are too short or tight, as you could veer into trashy territory.
● Pair animal print with solids. An animal print top with a pair of black cigarette pants says sophisticated rather than sleazy.
● Keep accessories minimal – let the colour and print do the talking.
● White and yellow are a match made in heaven. To emulate a curated urban streetwear look, pair mustard with crisp and clean white sneakers.
Fashion direction & production: Brittany Penebre. Photography: Paulo Touriero /Hero. Video: Roice Nel. Hair & make-up: Shahnaz Wels-Cola/SNCM & Kelly Paitaki/Gloss. Styling: Taugheeda Abdullah-Jacobs. Models: Max/Pulse, Lisa P/Fanjam, Deja/Boss. Written by Emma Follett-Botha.

MATTHEW MENSAH’S GUIDE TO GUY GROOMING

Matthew Mensah shares his men’s grooming secrets and style tips with us.

The philanthropist and style icon lets us in on his grooming routine, and it’s not as complicated as you might expect. Follow his guide to feeling fresh and looking sharp all day, everyday. 

PR extraordinaire, award-winning sartorial figure, campaign strategist, humanitarian, brand influencer for Bvlgari – Matthew Mensah’s resume is impressive! We love that his personal style and grooming are always on point, despite his crazy busy schedule. We asked Mensah to share his grooming secrets.

What’s your approach when it comes to male grooming?
A man with respect for himself looks after himself, and there should be no excuses. If our female counterparts can manage a grooming routine, so should we. Manicures, pedicures and waxing should be part of every man’s grooming vocabulary.

Take us through your daily grooming routine.
It’s simple; I apply a rich moisturiser with shea butter from Ghana after my shower, brush my hair and beard, check that my nails are clean, and finish off with a great scent.

Which three key items are always in your bathroom cabinet?
Fragrance, moisturiser and a scissors for my beard.

Is there one grooming product you carry with you wherever you go?
I have a little miniature bottle of my favourite fragrance that I always carry in my bag, so I can refresh my scent throughout the day.

What are your top tips for men who would like to start a grooming routine?

  • Start and end your day by cleansing your skin with a mild cleanser.
  • Find a great barbershop like Bespoke Men in Sandton City, Legends Barbershop, Joburg CBD or La Familia Barbershop in Rosebank.
  • Invest in a monthly manicure and pedicure.

Do you have a signature fragrance?
Yes, Bvlgari Wood Essence is currently my go-to scent, and it’s so fitting as I am now the official brand influencer for Bvlgari – a dream position as it’s always been one of my favourite luxury brands.

Which fragrance family are you most drawn to?
I prefer masculine scents with notes of cedarwood, ambergris, fresh citrus and coriander – which actually describes the composition of the Bvlgari Wood Essence fragrance, hence why I am drawn to it! Tom Ford, Paco Rabanne and Gucci Homme are also fragrance houses that produce scents I gravitate towards.

Your beard is in impeccable shape, how do your maintain it to ensure it always looks on point?
Aah, thank you! Many people don’t understand that grooming a beard takes time and effort and you should consider the same approach as you would for your hair. It needs to be washed, brushed and trimmed (or shaven) to create the style you desire. A beard oil is also an essential product that will ensure your beard is keep soft, nourished and smelling good.

When it comes to grooming, is it all about the products for you or does healthy eating and exercise also play a big role?
Eating healthy and keeping active is very much a part of my routine. I have a bit of a sweet tooth so going to gym is crucial!

In 2017 you were named GQ’s Best Dressed Man Of The Year – how have you established your go-to style, and what style advice do you have for our readers?
It was such an honour to be given this accolade. When it comes to my style, I have always dressed for myself. I love wearing a suit but I think it’s all about the fit, so I tend to tailor most of the pieces so they fit properly. I then add my own spin on it with interesting shoes and accessories. My advice would be to create your own style and identity, and look at the shape and fit of clothing – not only the brands and price points.

SHOP GROOMING

Top 4 Easter getaways for families

We round up the best places to escape to for the whole family this Easter.

It’s the long weekend! Escape to one of these kid-friendly destinations for a relaxing break.
Children aged six to 12 can take part in Bakubung Bush Lodge’s Junior Rangers programme, where they’ll learn more about the landscape, its inhabitants, and why we need to protect our natural heritage.

Safari style: Bakubung Bush Lodge

Pilanesberg National Park, 2.5 hours from Joburg
Traditional safari escapes can sometimes be a little stuffy and dull for kids when you’re not out spotting game. Bakubung in the extensive Pilanesberg National Park solves this problem by being part bush lodge, part family resort. Thatched-roof chalets curve around a central swimming pool and cocktail bar, so parents can enjoy a G&T while the little ones exhaust their energy in the pool. There are also floodlit tennis courts, a volleyball net, action cricket and a kiddies’ playground. Have a budding game ranger on your hands? The Junior Rangers Programme is a hands-on environmental education experience offered at no extra cost for children aged six to 12.

The family-friendly ethos extends to the lodge’s rates, too. Children 12 and under stay free – including accommodation, all meals and two game drives per day – when sharing a room with an adult paying a full-board rate.

And speaking of game drives… The Pilanesberg National Park is one of the most popular in South Africa thanks to its unique landscape. It lies in the transition zone between the semi-arid Kalahari and the Lowveld, which means it’s home to a diverse variety of wildlife. You could spot the big five, prolific herds of antelope, giraffes, cheetahs and – get those binoculars out, twitchers – more than 360 species of birdlife.

Snorkelling the beautiful Inhaca Island reef is just one of the many fun-filled family activities waiting for you when you board the MSC Musica four-night cruise to Mozambique.

All aboard: MSC Musica Cruise to Portuguese Island and Pomene

Departs Durban Harbor
Fancy really getting away from it all? Then leave all your troubles ashore and hop aboard the MSC Musica. This five-day, four-night cruise departs from Durban on Friday 19 April, setting sail for Mozambique. You’ll spend a day on the pristine, marine-protected Portuguese Island, then visit the wild beauty of the coastal Pomene region.

The best part? Children under 18 sharing a cabin with their parents travel absolutely free. They’ll still enjoy full access to all the onboard water parks, swimming pools, dining options and family-friendly entertainment, plus they have their own fully supervised clubs (these are divided by age group, so your 16-year-old won’t have to roll her eyes about being lumped with the 13-year-olds). Onboard activities include everything from games consoles to cooking classes, talent shows, sports tournaments and even a formal prom night for teens.

When you arrive in Mozambique, it gets even better. While at Portuguese Island, families can choose between water sports including sea kayaking, wake-boarding, banana-boat rides, stand-up paddle boarding and snorkelling. There are also transfers to historical Inhaca Island where you can take a scenic tour, shop for souvenirs or grab a snorkel and explore the beautiful reef. Water sports also feature heavily at Pomene, but the real allure of this area lies in a mangrove tour through the nature reserve, and a visit to the eerie ruins of the once-famous Pomene Hotel.

When you’re not enjoying thrills, spills and extreme sports along the Garden Route, take it easy in the tranquil garden at The Village Lodge.

Adventure awaits: The Village Lodge

Storms River, 1.5 hours from Port Elizabeth
Most towns on the Garden Route offer a sleepy, slow-paced charm – but not Storms River. Known for its adrenalin-inducing array of extreme sports and adventure tourism, it’s the perfect getaway for the family looking for a little excitement.

The best way to take advantage of all that this town has to offer is to find relaxed, family-friendly accommodation within easy distance of the main attractions. Cue The Village Lodge, which offers 10 en-suite rooms on a B&B or self-catering basis. There’s also a communal braai lapa, lounge area, games room (with an original Pac-Man arcade) and a large garden complete with hammocks and giant chess.

So, what’s on the agenda first? A guided Segway tour is a sedate yet fun way to explore the indigenous Tsitsikamma forest. Or – if heights are your thing – you can try abseiling, ziplining, a treetop canopy tour or even scream your lungs out on the world’s highest bridge bungee-jump at Bloukrans. Water babies are well catered for too, with blackwater tubing adventures, kayaking and even scuba excursions from the Storms River Mouth. And, of course, there are plenty of hiking and mountain-biking trails, including public access to the first 6km of the famous Otter Trail.

The five-star Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is like a luxury playground for adults and children alike. Your little ones will get closer to nature, learn about the fascinating history of the area and have plenty of fun – all while you enjoy being pampered from sun-up till turn-down.

Nature calls: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Between Stanford and Gaansbaai, 2 hours from Cape Town
This five-star eco-friendly getaway may be in a slightly higher price range than the other options on this list, but when you see the breathtaking location, gorgeous accommodation and list of included activities, you’ll want to go ahead and treat yourselves.

Covering some 2500ha of pristine Cape floral kingdom, Grootbos not only preserves the natural beauty of this area, but pioneers progressive luxury tourism that uplifts nearby communities. Because of this, all the activities offered are conservation- and community-themed. The three-night family package includes a three-course lunch on arrival, an exciting treasure hunt through the fynbos, then an early supper and babysitter for the kids while you linger over a six-course dinner. Your kids will love collecting their eggs straight from the farm for breakfast the next day, followed by an educational morning learning about rock pools and the ancient caves at the beach (with a gourmet picnic lunch). Pony rides, night walks, interactive coastal tours, a marine safari and a farewell dinner under the stars are just a few more of the delights families can look forward to.

Fancy building your own itinerary? Other options include botanical 4×4 tours, shark-cage diving, scenic flights, boat-based whale watching, a progressive tourism excursion and a ‘hive to home’ beekeeping experience, among others.

Edgars Club members can go further for less with exclusive savings on everything from flights to car hire and all-inclusive packages. Whether it’s a local bush break or a relaxing beach holiday you’re after, we’ve got it all, just for you. Read more about our travel savings here.

Words: Jade Taylor Cooke

4 must-have trends for girls this winter

Keep your little girl warm and cosy in fleece tops and lined jackets this autumn/winter.


Cosy fleece, lined jackets and soft knits will keep your kids comfy and snug as summer turns to autumn and temperatures drop.

1. Popcorn Fleece  

Fleece is the word in kid’s fashion this year. The trend gets an update with a fuzzy popcorn-like finish that’s fun, fluffy and super cosy. The animal hoodies add personality, and provide an extra layer of protection from the biting wind that sets in at this time of the year.

123 Toddlers popcorn fleece jackets 159.95 each

2. Knit Ponchos

These gorgeous knit ponchos will keep your little one warm in adorable style. The faux fur-trimmed detail is a chic and glamorous touch that she’ll get a kick out of.

123 Toddlers faux fur-trim capes 159.95 each

3. Textured Toppings

Playful, practical and pretty, this charming fuzzy bunny top ticks all the right boxes. It also provides plenty of room for movement; perfect for little girls who are always on the go.

123 Toddlers bunny sweat top 119.95; 123 Toddlers pompom-detail glitter sneakers 229.95

4. Parka jackets

The hooded parka is a must-have for cool, rainy days. Fit with fluffy faux-fur lining and a zip-up front, this outerwear essential will add a warm finishing touch to any outfit.

123 Toddlers parka jacket 229.95; 123 Toddlers fur-lined boots 99.95

Photography: Andrè Wepener/Pixel Lounge. Styling: Rushana Burton.

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

Travel to Zanzibar with Edgars Club

Make your travel dreams come true by heading to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar for less, with Edgars Club.

Get ready to (swim)suit up and lose yourself in the sultry rhythm and spellbinding sunsets of a tropical paradise.


 CLUB VIP + CLUB LIFE + CLUB CLASSIC

With its raw coconut coastlines, delectable cinnamon-vanilla aromatics, turquoise water and soft, white-sand beaches, a getaway to Zanzibar is everything you could dream of and more. A tour of the spice farms is not be missed, where you get the chance to sample various exotic spices and enjoy a deliciously spiced lunch in paradise. Sound good? With Edgars Club, you can make it happen. Club members get to explore the Spice Island for seven nights from only R9 995 pps. Travel valid from 16 March – 15 July 2019. Click here to find out more. Ts and Cs apply.

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Stand the chance to win Michelle Obama’s memoir

Edgars Club members stand the chance to win one of two copies of the Michelle Obama best-seller, Becoming.

Edgars Club members can win one of two of Michelle Obama’s best seller, Becoming.

CLUB VIP + CLUB LIFE + CLUB CLASSIC

Determined, focused and compassionate, America’s former first lady is a force to be reckoned with. As the first African American woman to serve in this position, she played a pivotal role in creating a more inclusive White House and became a powerful advocate for women and girls. In her candid memoir, Becoming, Michelle Obama invites readers into her world. Edgars Club members stand the chance to win one of two copies of Becoming, valued at R399 each. Competition closes 31 March. Find out more about the giveaway here. Click here to read five inspiring things we learnt about Michelle Obama in this bestseller. Ts & Cs apply.


A man’s guide to grooming like a pro this winter

From power products to the latest trends, we’ve got what you need to transform your current grooming routine.
Winter is coming, which means it’s time to switch up your grooming routine. What worked in summer is simply not going to cut it as the harsh elements kick in, sapping moisture from your body and doing a number on your skin.  Here’s how to make changes that prepare your hair and skin for the new season.

Hair trends

Expect to see the return of wild and free hair this year. The buzz cut that was big news last year is still a trendy option, but longer styles are staging a comeback. Curly-haired guys, consider growing out your waves into a loose, floppy top. Straight-haired? Grow it into a bob a la Johnny Depp. And when it comes to the ’fro, graphic shapes are back, such as skin fade flat tops, bowl tops and taper fades.

Retinol remedy

Retinol is a powerful anti-ageing ingredient that helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles by boosting the production of collagen in the skin. It also improves the skin’s texture and reduces dark marks and scarring, for an even complexion. It takes consistent use to benefit from this ingredient, so find a product you like and stick to it for best results.

Grooming oils

If you’re after a soft beard, smooth locks and hydrated skin, consider incorporating oils into your grooming routine. They absorb quicker and deeper into the skin than moisturisers, and contain nourishing and soothing ingredients that condition unruly beard hair and keep skin hydrated.

Fragrance update

New season new scent, right? With all the launches taking place, it’s difficult to narrow it down to just one – so don’t! We recommend picking a light, crisp and fresh fragrance for daytime use, and something more sensual for the evening.

Beard care

When it comes to facial fuzz, big, unruly and bushy beards are being replaced with short, clean and more stylised stubble. For those who still prefer some facial fur, the moustache is making a huge comeback – not only reserved for ‘Movember’, it’s now a strong style statement.

Pollution proof 

 We are all exposed to pollution on a daily basis. The latest wave of serums and moisturisers are designed to form an invisible shield between the air and your skin. They contain powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals, minimising the damage caused by air pollution and protecting your skin from premature ageing.

Optimal hydration

A common skin concern among men is dehydration, which indicates that your skin is lacking the essential moisture it needs to look plump and healthy. The latest launch by ClarinsMen consists of three products to target varying degrees of dehydration – from a rich and heavy balm for severely dehydrated skin, to lightweight, fresh lotions with built-in sun protection that are suitable for all skin types.

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

The item: The combat boot dominates this season

The best combat boots to add to your autumn/winter wardrobe for stylish and versatile looks.

It’s autumn, which means we can finally wear our combat boots to death! If you don’t yet have a pair, or you’re on the lookout for another style, then you’re in the right place. Consider them the must-have boots for autumn/winter 2019.

Why we want them

Instagram-worthy and influencer-approved, the combat boot is the shoe to own this season. Combat boots were a particular favourite in the ’90s and are back with a vengeance. So much so that the Hadid sisters (Bella in particular), Kaia Gerber and Hailey Bieber have been spotted wearing them like a second skin in between runway shows. And now we want them too!

How to wear them

The trick to wearing them correctly is in the styling. Combat boots are versatile enough to wear with your favourite pair of mom jeans or with a dress, and they look great with a cute pair of socks peeking out the top. Roll your jeans up to ankle height to show off your boots, or wear them with dresses and skirts that are ankle height or shorter for a feminine look with some attitude. Avoid floor-sweeping lengths that hide your boots and don’t do any justice to the look. The combat-hiker hybrid is admired for its badass, don’t-mess-around look, so pairing it with a feminine summer dress will add some edge; go for flowing fabrics in pretty floral prints for the perfect balance. Although the boot has punk/grunge undertones, designers have started experimenting with the design and silhouette of the shoe to make it more mainstream. From heels, platforms and buckles to lace-ups, slip-ons and bejewelled styles, the combat boot is here to serve us all.

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

Fashion direction & production: Brittany Penebre. Photography: Paulo Touriero/Hero Creative. Styling: Rushana Burton

Nikiwe Dlova: ‘Creativity is blossoming like never before in Africa’

Creative hair stylist Nikiwe Dlova shares her inspiring journey to self expression and hair success.

Soweto-based hair artist Nikiwe Ndlova has changed the way we think about hair with her visionary creations. We asked her about her inspiration and what the next generation of young African creatives is doing differently.

Graduating from the University of Johannesburg in 2013 with a diploma in clothing management, Nikiwe went on to work in retail as an intern and was promoted to assistant in the buying department. In 2016 she went on her own and started her a hair street culture blog called ownURcrown, which elevated her career to what it is today.

What shaped your aesthetic? 

I don’t really remember when the creativity ‘hit’ or kicked in, and I can’t pinpoint where it comes from exactly. But I remember that as a kid I was always inspired by everything happening around me – the newspapers and magazines, the activity out on the street. Eventually, when I was a little older at school, I started letting some of that creativity out, and I would sing and act as much as I could. But for the most part, my creative side was a little shy.

Was there a moment when something just ‘clicked’ for you? 

For a long time, you wouldn’t even have noticed me. I didn’t really express myself on a visual level. It took a while for me develop who I am today and how I portray myself to the world. It only happened after I left university, and more significantly, when I cut my Afro and I suddenly had short hair; it changed everything for me. That was actually such a defining moment and one that really started my relationship with hair. I suddenly felt like my true self.

What was it about cutting your hair that made you feel this way? 

I think that it takes a lot of confidence to be completely who you are. It’s easy to underestimate what it takes to be your true self. And unfortunately it’s something that most of us take a long time to learn. One thing I can say though is that people are finding their individuality and sense of self a lot quicker these days … Maybe because there is a greater sense of belonging?

How do you think creativity in Africa has evolved?  

Creativity is blossoming like never before in Africa. And platforms like social media are helping it along, especially for the younger generations – Millennials and Gen Z. Suddenly people are seeing proper representation, and it helps shed some of the fear or uncertainty of being who you truly are or how you want to present yourself. We’re learning that we don’t have to look across the ocean at places like USA to tell us what to wear and how to look. Suddenly we can stand back and say wait, we don’t need anyone else defining us.

How do you think that’s shaping the next generation of creatives?  

The next generation of creatives is going to change the narrative of society. They’re discovering things most of us never had the chance to learn. But one of the most important things they’re learning is deep-rooted self-love. It’s such a valuable and powerful lesson to learn.

What have you learned through your own creativity?  

I learned that generally, we don’t celebrate ourselves nearly enough. We have this culture of waiting for others to celebrate or recognise us. We shouldn’t wait for those moments. We should just celebrate ourselves because we are worth celebrating.

What shapes your personal style?  

It’s difficult to describe it because there are so many things that inspire and shape me. Some days I’m simple with a twist; other days I’m a burst of colour. There are days I’m a mix of African eclecticism, and others when I’m quite ‘out there’.

You’re known first and foremost for your hair. What does hair mean to you?  

Hair is a powerful thing. Especially in our country, where many people still can’t fully embrace or express themselves through their hair. Hair is fun and it can be interesting. But it’s also political and powerful. It can be a tool for social commentary and for making a statement. What I want most of all is for kids to be inspired by what they see.

Do you think your relationship with hair has a particular future?  

What’s really important for me is that the narrative of hair changes. So I would love to start an academy or production company that will help change the way people look at hair. I want to train people to take hair styling to the next level and push creative boundaries.

FUN FACTS

Favourite accessory? 
Can I say my hair? Because it’s definitely my hair!

All-time favourite style icon?
Without a doubt, Erykah Badu.

Bucket list destination? 
I can’t pick only one: Ghana, New York City and Amsterdam.

A wild party or a quiet night in? 
I’ve had my wild days, so I’d have to say a quiet night in.

Check out Nikiwe’s Instagram & Nikiwe’s Blog

Words: Edwain Steenkamp. Photography: Instagram