A couple of weekends ago, I finally managed to escape my mundane routine and hang out with my friend and her 2-year-old daughter at the Selfie Factory O2. I was excited to check out the quirky interactive pop-up experience that promised to up my Instagram game.

As soon as we walked in, we were transported to a world of vibrant colours and funky decor. It was like stepping into a candy-coloured dreamland. My friend's daughter was in awe, and she was ready to show off her best poses and steal the show.

We started off in the pink replica tube train, which was a bit of a tight squeeze for us adults. But who cares about personal space when you're trying to capture the perfect shot? We all squished in and struck our best poses while my friend's daughter showed us how it's done.

Next up was the doughnut wall, and we were all drooling at the sight of the colourful confections. We grabbed some to pose with, but let's be real, we were more interested in devouring them. The pink supermarket was another favourite, and we pretended to shop for imaginary groceries while posing like fashion models.

My friend's daughter was a natural in front of the camera, and she had her angles down pat. We were all trying to keep up with her and failing miserably. But that didn't stop us from having a blast and snapping ridiculous photos.

The confetti room was a total riot. We were throwing confetti everywhere and pretending to be in a music video. My friend's daughter was twirling around like a mini superstar, and we were all laughing and having a great time.

We spent hours exploring the different rooms and snapping photos. By the end of it, we were exhausted but happy. Our camera rolls were full of silly and ridiculous photos that we'll treasure. Then we went for pizza.

The Selfie Factory O2 is a must-visit for anyone who loves to take photos and have a good time. It's a place where you can let your inner child come out and play, and where you can create unforgettable memories with friends and family. And if you bring a cute toddler along, they might just steal the show.

1. Beaches

2. Bunce Island

If you're an African history buff like me, you simply cannot miss the Bunce Island Tour! This place used to be the largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast of West Africa, and it's truly a captivating experience. With its long and complex history, you'll be moved by the stories that this place has to offer.This small island, located just a short boat ride from Freetown. Visitors can tour the island with a knowledgeable guide, who will provide insight into the island's dark past.

3. Gorilla Sanctuary

Sierra Leone is home to a population of endangered Western Lowland Gorillas, and the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Located just outside Freetown, the sanctuary is home to over 100 chimpanzees and a small group of gorillas. The Gorillas had sass and really looked at home climbing up trees and doing mating rituals. What's more, the baby gorillas are just the cutest.

4. People

As someone who has deep roots in Sierra Leone, I can tell you firsthand that the people here are some of the most friendly and hospitable you'll ever meet. It's not uncommon to be stopped on the street and offered a warm smile or a helping hand. And if you happen to visit someone's home, you'll be welcomed with open arms and treated like family. Trust me, you won't want to leave.

5. Food

Oh, and let's not forget about the food - from the savory flavors of cassava leaves to the sweet taste of mangoes, your taste buds will be in for a treat. Sierra Leone's cuisine is a delicious blend of West African and European influences. From spicy Jollof rice to delicious seafood dishes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try the local street food, such as Akara and jelly coconuts.

8. Shopping

9. Waterfalls

10. Culture

It makes me so proud to see the African fashion industry finally blow up internationally. I’ve always had a few pieces in my wardrobe but when I went to Sierra Leone for Christmas a couple of years ago, I pretty much designed an entire collection of African dresses, skirts, and tops. I chose all the fabric and then worked with local tailors to design, cut, and sew them. I’ve already blogged about how I started designing my African outfits , but this latest collection was my favourite experience so far. My cousins and friends would take me to local markets where we’d hunt down beautiful African prints and haggle price buy them. We’d then head to the tailor where I’d show him sketches, photos and my own clothes to copy. Once I got all measured up, the talented tailor and his team got to work and created these beautiful pieces. The result is what you see below. I photographed these in lockdown last year, but I really hope I get to wear them out and about this summer. Would love to know what you think.

The halter neck Peekaboo skater dress

This dress is my favourite from the whole collection. Made from 100% African wax cotton, the purple fabric is covered in big animated like petals… and I’m living for it. I wanted something different so decided to go for a high halter neck cut, with a peekaboo neckline. For the bottom half, I asked for a high waist A Line skater skirt. This is the sort of African dress I would wear to a wedding or formal event with a dressy pair of heels and a clutch bag. 

The African Style Prom dress

The corset peplum top

I wanted a corset style top because when they fit, they’re really flattering. The corset silhouette accentuates my waistline, while the peplum cut gives it a fun, playful finish. I will always favour the sweetheart neckline as I think it’s the flattering for someone with broad shoulders like me. The thin straps keeps it cute but sexy. 

The ruched Off the Shoulder skater dress

It will come no surprise to you that this shoot took place over 7 months ago. A girl can’t really collate any decent content when she’s housebound, locked in and been wearing the same tracksuit sets for the last three months.   However, as we are slowly but surely seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, I thought it  would be to share this look as we transition into the new season.

 I’ve had this Ankara top for years now. It was one of the first African fabrics I chose and had tailor made into a fitted peplum style top. It seems to be one of the key pieces that I’ve worn continuously in the last four years because it fits so well. It’s fair to say that the sweetheart neckline is my go-to look, as it’s the most flattering for my neck and shoulder. I love the Aztec style Ankara print which goes well with anything denim, while the bustier cut and peplum finish hooks me up with a decent waistline, especially when I’ve been overindulgent.

The next time I’m back in Africa be it Sierra Leone or Nigeria, I’ll definitely be replicating this style using Ankara fabric again. I like that a lot of the clothes I wear are one off pieces, and that everything is tailor made. I cannot wait to raid my Summer wardrobe so I can pull out my favourite African designs and get ready for post lockdown season. Bring it on!