Thursday, 25 October 2012

Why Do Women Wear High Heel Shoes?

In the last few months, I have been feeling some excruciating pains in my back and it seems this has transported to my left toe. I worry going to the GP will waste time and well I know what he/she might say “lay off heels and get some flat shoes”. Just like they always say! So like any smart young lady will do, I decided to keep on some painkillers and accept it will go away in time. Then it suddenly occurred to me that I cannot live on painkillers for the rest of my life. I need to do something drastic that would relief the pain- and fast. So I am opting for flat shoes! It seemed like the scariest thought I’ve ever had.  This is proving rather difficult after a week. Much effort is needed to accomplish this aim. In respect of this, I embarked on a research leap to find out- why women wear heels. Why women chose to ignore the evasive discomfort to mere pleasure- if at all is it pleasure when it hurts. Logically, the answer is simple- we just feel good in it.
 
Personally, I heart high-heeled shoes because they are attractive. The thought of not wearing them anymore really scares me. They are elegant in shape, supports good body posture and most of all created for different fashion styles. My favourite “Rouge” heel as seen in the picture below is styled with an African print. 



Recent research by the savvy foot care company Compeed revealed that British women wear high heel shoes than their European counterparts. British women on average wear a 3.3inches heel compare to 2.4inches in France and 2.7 in Germany. From this result, I can fairly interpret this information by concluding that British women on average are shorter than women in France and Germany. British women admitted to endure the pain caused by high heels because they are perceived as prestige. Hence, perception is a key factor to women’s decision to wear high heels.
So what are the medical effects of wearing such high heels?
A study by Dr. Kerrigan et al explored the effects of footwear on the knees. Their result showed high relationship between heels and strains on the knees. Therefore, all heels have detrimental effect on the knees which is likely to cause osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis otherwise known as wear-and-tear arthritis is as a result of degeneration of cartilage in the joint resulting to severe pain and loss of motion in the joint. That is not all; wide-heel shoes are of greater risk than narrow heel shoes because greater force is placed on them. So if you are opting for wider heels with the assumption that it is safer and low-risk to your muscle- think again!
So is it worth it? I think not!
From my findings, it is clear that all heeled shoes have incurable health effects. They can be controlled with painkillers, but is that a wise lifestyle when you can purchase fashionable flats less than your health value.
Be smart, Be fashionable!
 
Article by: Eighteen Forever
Photo credit: Eighteen Forever
 
Please ask for permission before using this information. Thank you

Wednesday, 17 October 2012

Nominated: Fashion Blog of The Year at Black Weblog Awards 2012

We have been nominated for Black Weblog Awards in US. So thrilled! Thank you for your support peeps. 


Photo credit: Black Weblog Awards 

Sunday, 14 October 2012

Voting Line Now Open


Eighteen Forever is a fashion blog with an emerging fashion line. 
Aim: to share bold, bright and current fashion trends through personal style and fashion shows......

Objectives: 1. connect with bloggers, designers, retailers and the 
social enterprise sphere.

2. Promote sustainable fashion, beauty and fashion events.

Current partners: ANGLO NUBIA Face Of Colour RuShee

Events and contribution: Press at Africa Fashion Week London 2012
and contributed to Africa Fashion Week Magazine August Edition

Awards: BEFFTA Awards and Black Weblogs Awards 2012 Nominee




Absolutely humbled to be nominated for this awards. It would mean everything if "Eighteen Forever" gets the trophy- so please vote and share the link www.beffta.com/voting THANK YOU!!

Sunday, 30 September 2012

BEFFTA Awards 2012: King of Couture Hosts Launch Party

Another hectic week off my schedule. It all started with the undergraduate recruitment fair in London, followed by the BEFFTA (Black Entertainment Film Fashion Television Arts) Awards nomination launch party on Wednesday 26th September at Babble Mayfair- then Face of Colour audition and photo shoot in Birmingham on Saturday 29th September at the Custard Factory. Uhh.... It's exhausting but fun!! BEFFTA launch party was prodigious!!!! Lots of people attended- celebrities, bloggers, presenters' and of course emerging talents' too. One thing I admire the most about BEFFTA Awards is its "inclusiveness". Everyone is given the chance to share their talents and gain well deserved recognition. This year's nomination launch party was hosted by Mr Adebayo Jones aka King of Couture. He is one of the most humble people I have ever met. His designs are high-fashion couture, heritage and ladylike. Loved the showcase at Africa Fashion Week London in August.

The highlight of the event is the nominee announcement.  I am so humbled and delighted to be nominated for Blog of the Year in just 8 months of establishment. Thank you to everyone who nominated. Voting opens 7th of October #EighteenForever.

Fashion wise, it was average I guess everyone is saving their style-savv for the award night on the 27th of October at The Hippodrome North London. I cannot wait to see you all there.

Founder of BEFFTA Awards Miss Pauline Long with Ken Smart (L- Actor/Producer/Director at Genesis Producxions Ltd) and Mr Adebayo Jones (R- Fashion Designer aka King of Couture). Love the bright colour with natural make-up. 

         Fashion blogger meets Legendary Fashion designer- Mr Adebayo Jones... *Special moment*

Fashion blogger with Jimmy Akingbola from Holby City. Battle of the Darkest. Who is darker? 

Uhh..can you see what I'm seeing. Leyton keep your legs straight!! Didn't see this until editing. Your suit is super bright!! Samuell Benta well tailored suit in electric blue was my favourite on the night. *best-dressed*. 

I will be very happy to offer my service "what suits your body shape" to the lady in red. Nice shape- wrong dress + too much bling!! The lady in pink dress got the shape right for her body- however there is too much accessories going on.....ditch the necklace and keep earring and bracelet. Love the hair!!

You have committed a great offence by wearing that shoe with the frill skirt (lady on the left). What were you thinking? Love the jumpsuit (lady in the middle)

I introduce you to....Shiikane! They can sing. I mean they can sing!! Please perform on the award night. Love their style too. Animal print is NOT going anywhere. OK!" The clutch bag in the middle is from Miss London £32. I am definitely getting one *smiles*


Elaka performing at the launch party. Lace is very tricky to pull off. This dress did NO justice to her figure. Keep up the good work though!!

   Focus please.....focus on the right!! Lovely Victoria from Focus Organisation is nominated for Best  Events Promoter. She is definitely promoting with that "Top". To find out more about Focus Organisation, please follow this link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Focus-Organization/224250857613337?sk=info

Left: Fashion designer (The House of Adjeiwaa) and her friend. House of Adjeiwaa is nominated for fashion designer of the year. Good luck lady....I hope you WIN!!!! To see House of Adjeiwaa's designs, please follow this link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-House-of-Adjeiwaah/207719175908850?fref=ts

They got it right. A/W 12 is all about black, colour and statement shoes!!! Well done to the lady in LBD. For more black fashion this winter, visit Zara, Topshop and Warehouse. For bright colour fashion, see Eighteen Forever fashion line on this blog. 
Miss West Africa Winner was also at the event. She seemed nervous and overwhelmed by it all. Welcome to the world of entertainment!!!! Don't worry...you will get use to it.

Photo credit: Eighteen Forever

Wednesday, 26 September 2012

Nominated: Fashion Blog of The Year at BEFFTA Awards UK


Many thanks to all those who nominated Eighteen Forever for Fashion Blog of The Year 2012. We really appreciate you.

At the Launch Party with Jimmy Akingbola.

Photo credit: Eighteen Forever 

Saturday, 22 September 2012

Nicki Minaj & Co

Red hair, yellow heels, blue clutch bag? Yep! Embracing colour is the new paradigm in fashion. Take a bliss......Why not try multiple colours with your outfit. This outfit breaks style rule from all era with multi-colour combination is every way. Wondering where to get this fabulous shoe? No wonder, just shop at Milano for only £65. How could you ignore this cut-out tailored pencil dress from Oasis £80. I wore this dress on my graduation in January - not with the shoe of course. This outfit is "classy meets bright colour" which is unique but intensified. To avoid looking like a drag rather than a chic because of the "red hair"- I opt for supreme and natural make-up with a long-stain lipstick in nude colour from KIKO. Did you just ask where the earrings are from? One place for statement accessories particularly those inspired by geometrics- drum roll please.....its..... Topshop!!

Remember- fashion is about experimenting and evolving with shapes, patterns, styles and presentation. Just give it a try and have fun doing it!! Happy shopping xoxo



I love flowers- they are so beautiful I could collect them all day. 
FF- Clutch bag from Shu £20
KIKO nail liquor £9.99.


Young money maker- what you say? Not a fan of her music but I adore the unusual hair colour and make-up. Yellow was HOT during Spring but it looks like it is here to stay. Embrace COLOUR!!

Photo credit: Eighteen Forever & The Internet 

Sunday, 16 September 2012

10 Office Outfits You Can Wear


When it comes to office-wear, it can be very difficult to decide what is "smart", "acceptable" and perfect for our body shape. From all of the outfits created, few items stand-out the most....blazers, skirts, A-line dresses and LS Shirts. This is not to say that blouses are not acceptable because they are. But you have to be sure of your body-shape before shopping for them. Blouses can make you look bigger!! Make sure you try them on. Blazers are great and an easy way to turn a casual look into a smart and attractive outfit. They are every fashionistas must-have "IT" item. If you are the type that works long hours and travel often, a mid-heel shoe would be perfect with your outfit. My job requires travelling and sometimes touring (on campus), I always have a flat shoe in my bag for "just-in-case" situations...if you know what I mean. It is important to think of your health when it comes to heels and make-up. Too much of it can be detrimental to your health!!

Some of you might be overwhelmed by the prices of this items (see below). Not to worry, I'm in the process of designing affordable pieces for office-wears which would be available by 2013. In the meantime, take a look at the post "Eighteen Forever Fashion Line" for current collection!!

If you are like many women who like to leave the office and head to a bar or a party.......take a look at the outfits below. This should inspire your look!! Any questions, just ask!



Hybrid Dress with Botton and Belt £85
Camilla & Marc Dress with Peplum Detail £245
Asos Sexy Pencil Dress with Zip Detail £26.50
Reiss Perle Court Shoe £129
Exclusive Black Glitter by Lucy Choi £168
Beyond Skin Bow Front Heeled Shoes £90


Classic White Shirt £50
Washed Silk Skirt with Gathered Side £340
Debutante Set of Three Necklaces £290
Reiss Janice Lace Detailed Court Shoes £159
Pauric by Pauric Sweeney Embossed Box Bag £201.50


Glamourous Leather Look Playsuit £32
Ted Baker Tailored Blazer £199
Tokyo Shoe Boot £35
Fendi AW10/8M0247 FOGHM Green Plastified Fabric Portamonete £165
Reiss Tali Large Bowling Bag £169

                                                    Double Breasted Cotton Coat £21
                                                    Pure Silk Washable Blouse £140
                                                    Gabi Black Belt £65
                                                    Savana High-waisted Cotton Short
                                                    Suede Shoe Boot £65
                                                    River Island Buckle Satchel


Celandine Yellow Size Sweater by Burberry Brit
Honey Pleat Trouser by Burberry Brit
Mandu Chelsea Coat by Malene Birger
Pallion Basket Bag from Boticca
DY114 Coral & Cream Shoe




Aline Leather Shoulder Dress by Michael Michael Kors
Ted Baker TUNDA Flared Skirt Coat £229
Pepe Jeans Leather Ken Gloves £30
Asos Suede Shoe Boot £65
Braids Together Charcoal Bag
Two Layered Scarf from Boticca £114
River Island Earring £6




Red Print Pant by Preen Line £81
Black Wetlook Animal Print Peplum Top £25
Ted Baker Check GHRA Tailored Blazer £199
Pandora 14ct Onyx Pear Earring Charms £165
London Rebel Heeled Shoe with Toe Cap £32
Chainlink Black Purse £170
Ri2K Leather Satchel £65




Icrystal Print Silk Shirt by Thesyken's Theory £345
Vava Voom Pencil Skirt £30
ALDO Romelia Suede Court Shoe £70
Leopard Print Blouse by Just Carvalli £240
Red Clara Basic Short £30
Signature Black Silk Shirt £230
Audrey Blue Cropped Trousers £205



Cream High Waisted Pencil Skirt £447
Leopard Print Shirt by Just Carvalli £240
Women Stretched Tailored Blazer £59
Asos Scala High Heels £22
Lle Monaco Shoulder Bag from Boticca £248
Chinese Laundry Traffic Jam Heels £35
Armani Exchange Cream Bracelet Watch £99

Image Created by: Eighteen Forever