Jersey - House Of Coco Magazine

Beauty November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide: Felicia Bland on creating positive beauty with Millie’s Best

Speaking with Felicia V. Bland, is like speaking with a ray of sunshine. She is a breath of fresh air and positivity amidst an increasingly cynical world, and she radiates this attitude through her own business as well. Mille’s Best, named after her grandmother and inspired by her own daughter, is an amalgamation of all the positive values that Felicia stands for. Aside from selling sustainable organic hand-crafted products, she has also created a support network of female artisans — each one promoting empowerment, diversity, friendship, and sustainability. Why buy your soap from anywhere else?

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to start Millie’s Best?

I am a creative person, that loves food, beauty, art, reading, traveling, learning new things & doing crafts. I was born, raised and currently reside— in New Jersey, USA. In 2014, I started experimenting with handcrafted soaps & delicious body butters. I took a variety of professional courses on cold process soap making, hot process soap making, and essential oils in New York City. The Youtube handcrafted soap gurus Soap Queen’s Ann Marie Faiola, was one of my 1st great online teachers. Then I started to make, gift, donate & sell my handcrafted skincare products away to family, friends & to a local school for a fundraiser.

My love for healthy, handcrafted, natural and organic skincare products inspired me to start Millie’s Best. I come from a lineage of naturalist, creatives, hand-crafters, and business women. The company is named after my grandmother, Mildred. She was a beautiful, elegant, spiritual and creative person with gorgeous skin, and her skincare routine was natural and uncomplicated. She was a seamstress that designed, made and sold her own clothes. My daughter, Beauty, is a beautiful & elegant creative soul, that loves skincare, makeup, beauty, fashion and the arts, she currently has her own Mink eyelash business. She keeps me up to date on current beauty trends, social media and she inspires me daily. She was the one who encouraged me to start and continue to grow my company.

Could you run us through how your products are ethically and sustainably made?

Millie’s Best is currently an exclusive skincare online platform that offers a variety of luxurious, natural, vegan, organic, handcrafted artisan beauty products from different artisans in North America. I partner with some wonderful women with great brands. Some of my partners are Jillian of Butter Me Up Organics from California, Melissa of Elegant Rose Boutique from Michigan, Stephanie of Code Skincare from Florida and Tammi of Hanna Herbals from Illinois. They make their products in small batches, with lots of love. Each artisan has their own eco-friendly processes that are both ethical and sustainable. They use natural sustainably sourced, cruelty free ingredients with certified organic ingredients in small batches.

I would like to give a special Shout-out to all the handcrafted artisans throughout the world; your creativity, pride, devotion & commitment to your craft & the handcrafted industry is amazing and inspiring.

Why should we choose handcrafted soap?

You should choose handcrafted soaps because they are luxurious, delicious, & eco-friendly; they are made in small batches by handcrafted artisans. The artisans use high quality ingredients, beautiful natural oils, delicious butters, luxurious milks, fresh botanicals and natural essential oils. Handcrafted soaps are gentle, moisturising and safe. The pH of handcrafted soap is between 8-10, which is safe to use on the skin. Handcrafted soaps are free from harsh chemical detergents, hardeners and synthetic lathering agents. These harsh chemical ingredients can be drying and irritating to your skin and dangerous to the environment.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an entrepreneur so far?

My biggest challenge as a new online beauty and skincare entrepreneur has been managing all the social media outlets, marketing and selling online effectively. I am currently learning how to balance learning and applying all of this new tech, website & social media information. It is an exciting and ever-changing time for online entrepreneurship.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

Sometimes failing is a blessing and sometimes losing is winning but never give up. There are some talented & amazing women, that never act on their dreams & give up on their dreams because of the fear of failure. Some fail and stop pursuing their dreams. Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times before the light bulb worked, but to him each failure was a lesson. I have come to learn that failure can teach us a lot of lessons, that enables us to learn & grow.It is a blessing to be able to start all over again,because you still have the beauty of the breath of life; do something even if it’s small. Take a class, get a mentor, start the business, but do something to act on your dream consistently. All true creatives, hand-crafters & entrepreneurs know that the winning is in the growth & perseverance.

www.milliesbest.com

United Kingdom November 9, 2023

From function to fashion: the biggest sportswear trends

The sport world has long had an influence on fashion trends; items of clothing that started as functional accessories for sporting activities, quickly became staple features in everyday wardrobes. The glamorisation and aspirational quality of certain sports means it’s now more than acceptable to don sports clothes at social events. Heading out for dinner straight after the gym? No worries. How about custom basketball jerseys for Friday night drinks? Fine. Brunch in yoga pants? Absolutely.

Looking ahead to the rest of 2018, it’s unlikely this will change. Happily, strong is still the new sexy; whether you call it Sports Luxe, Athleisure, or just a super comfy outfit, here are the most popular activewear looks.

Yoga: making leggings an all-year-round option

First, we had the 80-inspired leggings look — you know, the one where the leggings were mostly black, but all slightly too transparent — and, despite the trend becoming omnipresent for a while, it wasn’t really working. However, thanks to the rise in popularity of Western-style yoga, and brands like Lululemon and Sweaty Betty producing yoga pants in a host of cute colours and patterns, leggings came back in a different guise. Crucially, because these yoga pants are first and foremost a functional item — to be worn during a yoga practice — the fabric is opaque enough to wear outside the yoga studio and stretchy enough to be worn all day without losing its shape.

If you seek confirmation that the yoga activewear look has firmly taken hold, just look in any breakfast or brunch establishment from Mile End to Hammersmith – there you’ll see it, groups of girls in yoga leggings, sipping Matcha lattes over superfoods. Whether or not they’ve been to a yoga class is somewhat irrelevant; the success of this clothing trends supersedes the sport itself, and instead largely symbolises the ‘Clean eating, Clean living’ macro trend that’s continuing to reign supreme.

Basketball: celebrity endorsements bring mass appeal

Looking back, it all started with Michael Jordan – arguably the most famous basketball player of our time and the first ever billion-dollar athlete. While his skills got him to where he is now, good shoes sure helped. https://shoeadviser.com can help you get to where you need to be. Having a variety of shoes that can endure long-games and letting you be at the level you want while staying comfortable.–When Nike started selling sneakers for basketball sports in MJ’s name, he was blasted into the stratospheric level of fame. As such, people — basketball players or no — lusted after functional basketball sneakers, because they were associated with his name.

It is true, though, that certain product design features and assets will make one pair of basketball trainers functionally superior to another — whereas opting for one brand of yoga leggings over another won’t make you more able to Chaturanga or hold Trikonasana for any longer. Indeed, the Sport Consumer best basketball shoes reviews suggests players could jump over 3 inches higher with the right footwear!

The iconic Nike Jordan and Air Jordan have been mimicked by brands all over the world, and the shoe’s widespread appeal doesn’t show signs of slowing.

In a surprising move that bridges the worlds of basketball and fashion, the lakers austin reaves release exclusice rigorer shoes with kickscrew.com. This unexpected collaboration adds an exciting twist to the ongoing evolution of sportswear trends, turning functional footwear into a true fashion statement.

Running: wearable tech becomes an everyday accessory

Have you ever looked around on your commute, and clocked the amount of people who have switched analogue wristwatches for a fitness tracker? Spoiler alert: it’s a lot! Another nod to the mega trend that is Clean Living, the question “How many steps have you done?” is no longer without meaning to the vast majority: if asked, someone is clearly enquiring about your Fitbit, Garmin or other fitness tracker stats for the day. If smartwatches almost immediately acquired a “children’s” standard, with a telephone module and GPS, then fitness trackers lagged behind the trend for a long time. The first decent model of Fitbit for kids was introduced in 2018.

As such, the world of running has been hugely influential in fashion. So much so, that Fitbit offer a vast selection of different aesthetics and styles for trackers, including the Flex 2 which looks more like a gold bracelet than a functional sports accessory.

Cycling: here’s hoping the shorts don’t stick, but give us a bright cycling jersey any day!

Despite Kylie Jenner making her first post-baby public appearance in a pair of cycling shorts, there’s a lot more to this trend than spandex. Indeed, brands like Rapha have brought about a total rebirth of the colourful cycling jersey, and you’ll now find bike enthusiasts turning up to the office keenly wearing their cycling jackets.

As with other trends, the popularity of cycling clothing is closely tied to other lifestyle movements: namely, the desirability of vintage and aspiration to be more environmentally friendly. Indeed, many commuters have traded the tube to whizz through bicycle lanes and are proud to be part of a resurgence of cycling culture. Wisely, Rapha uses hints of retro 60s and 70s styling in its products.

CrossFit: the community workout creates a new tribe of sportspeople

Comparatively a new sport trend, CrossFit has made pretty big waves. Backed by a number of early adopters when it first launched, the sport has a strong, dedicated community. Furthermore, the competitive element — where CrossFit affiliated gyms compete against each other — encourages tight alliances between individuals and a powerful team spirit. As such, CrossFit fanatics associate themselves with the brand of their chosen gym: something we may see become more significant in CrossFit activewear design.

For the time being, Reebok seems to have monopolised on the CrossFit trend, opening specialist training centres and sportswear stores in its name.

Tennis: a timeless trend

We can’t discuss sportswear trends without speaking of tennis. Whether it’s the Wimbledon effect, big ticket sponsorship deals, or stardom of the sport’s key players, there’s something undeniably glamorous about what players turn up to Centre Court wearing.

Even off the court, Tennis shoes are ubiquitous during the summer months, with brands like Adidas, Keds, Diadora and Lacoste all offering their unique spin on the style. Tennis trainers have firmly made the transition from functional footwear to fashion statement.

Why sportswear will continue to be fashionable

With sports intrinsically linked to other values and aspirations — be it lifestyle choices or other — it’s safe to say that athleisure will continue to be an important fashion trend. What’s unclear right now though, is which trends will continue to flourish in coming years. Will we look back at yoga leggings with dismay? Will fitness trackers be put away in cupboards, to beep and beep as they lose battery, overlooked for the next wearables trend? Only time will tell.

Jersey November 9, 2023

How To Pack For A Winter Getaway: A Man’s Suitcase Essentials

Packing for a winter getaway can be difficult, especially if you spend most of your year in the sunshine and mild temperatures as your day-to-day wardrobe will reflect that of a beach holiday and will not be equipped for colder temperatures.

Whether you’re jetting off to Europe for a winter city break or ski holiday, or whether you’re going to New York for Christmas time, you need to ensure you pack the right winter essentials for subzero temperatures. Packing the wrong clothing and your trip may be ruined.

However, keeping warm in cold temperatures doesn’t mean you must compromise your style. Pack the below suitcase essentials for your winter getaway and you will strike sartorial gold.

A weather-proof coat

If you’re heading off somewhere cold and wet, such as a snowy destination or a winter sports resort, the first item in your suitcase should be a warm rainproof coat. Good casual and stylish options are down-filled parka jackets, thick puffer jackets and lined bomber jackets, which look best in dark and neutral colours like khaki, black and navy. Team these with denim jeans and leather boots and you’ll be ready for the snow.

A wool overcoat

A wool overcoat is the perfect outwear choice for a wintry city break in Europe. Tailored topcoats are smart and sharp and are perfect for formal celebrations like dinners and galas. They are not as warm as weather-proof coats like parka jackets, but they are great for layering on top of knitwear and can be easily accessorised with scarves, gloves, hats and umbrellas.

Opt for a neutral single-tone wool overcoat in either black, grey or navy as they are most versatile. Layer your coat over bright-coloured knits for a refined but modern look.

A selection of knit jumpers

Another essential in your winter holiday suitcase is a selection of knit jumpers, whether that be roll necks, fisherman’s knits or chunky cable knits.

Knit jumpers are cosy and flattering and are teamed best with slim-fit jeans and smart shoes. Knit jumpers can look good in any shade, but a knit in a rich-hue (e.g. orange or burgundy) will elevate your winter look and add a pop of colour to cloudy day.

Leather boots

Leather boots are an essential in cold and wet climates. They keep your feet warm and dry and the rubber soles ensure for a good grip on all surfaces, which makes them the perfect footwear to wear in ice and snow.

What’s more, men’s casual shoes like leather boots are very versatile and can be worn with all sorts of clothing. Team brown leather lace-up boots with blue jeans for a casual look, or wear classic Chelsea boots with dark chinos for a refined finish, perfect for a formal occasion.

Denim jeans

Denim jeans are an essential clothing item in all suitcases and in all times of the year, but especially during wintertime. They are effortlessly stylish, easy to wear and very practical in colder weathers, due to the thickness of the denim material.

Pack denim jeans in your suitcase and wear them with either a knit jumper, a jersey sweater, a shirt or t-shirt for ultimate timeless stylish and unbeatable practicality. Dress them up or down to suit the occasion at hand.

Winter accessories

It wouldn’t be a winter getaway without packing the essential accessories: a beanie hat, a woolly scarf and leather gloves. Colourful woolly scarfs can brighten up a dark-coloured ensemble, leather gloves are smart and practical, and a beanie hat can keep you snug in icy temperatures.

You should also be sure to pack an umbrella if you’re heading to a wet and rainy climate.

Conclusion

Winter getaways are the perfect opportunity to wrap up warm, stay cosy and take advantage of stylish winter clothes. Pack the above clothing pieces in your suitcase and you will stay warm and dry but, importantly, on-trend.

Australia February 9, 2022

Where to Buy Affordable Workout Clothes for Kids in Australia

When it comes to your kid’s workout clothes, high quality does not always equate to high prices. Many well-known brands sell classy yet affordable workout clothes for kids.

Workout clothes are the clothes your kids are sweating in and you have to wash them constantly. Shelling out a big chunk of your cash on them won’t always be worth it. What’s more, your kids can still have fun with their workout classes even if they’re wearing inexpensive workout clothes.

The workout apparel of your kids should not hold them back—they should help them be more active while having fun. Now, if your goal is to find budget-friendly activewear without compromising the quality, the following brands can help you out.

Target

For stylish kid’s workout clothes at a discounted price, Target has been a go-to shop. They have a wide selection of supportive sportswear, classy biker shorts and moisture-wicking tops. They even have an amazing lineup of leggings, including those high-waisted sleek running ones.

Lisa Trujillo

Lisa Trujillo is an Australian activewear brand that spends years perfecting their workout clothing fabrics both for kids and adults. They have an incredible lineup of activewear for your kids’ varying needs, such as sports teams, workout sessions, gymnastics clubs, dance studios or simply outdoor games. They even offer custom-made activewear that’ll surely fit your kid’s preference and size.

Amazon

Amazon has an exclusive Core 10 line, and it’s amazing. The brand’s build-your-own legging’s quality is superb, and the price point is at $45, depending on how you customise your kid’s leggings. The online retailer also has a fan-favourite brand called Baleaf. It has everything from basic activewear for kids to workout-specific apparel like athletic swimsuits, biker shorts and more at a price of $40 and lower.

Zappos

Zappos has a wide array of kids clothing, shoes and accessories that come from famous brands, many of which are workout pieces. You’ll get to see different activewear essential brands and classic names like Reebok, Nike and Adidas. Not only that, there are trendy athleisure selections from Koral and Alo Yoga.

To partner with your kids’ activewear, Zappos also has an amazing selection of running shoes from Brooks, Asics and more, all at a guaranteed lower price.

The Iconic

The Iconic is an Australian clothing powerhouse that has a massive variety of kid’s clothing. This includes amazing activewear for everyday activities and sports coming from different popular brands, such as:

SAS – a brand dedicated to school-aged girls’ workout apparel. They have shorts, leggings and hoodies in fun and radiant colours that help young girls run, tumble, flip and jump with ease and comfort.
Bonds – they stock sports clothes from Bonds Kids like basic tees, as well as shorts.
Adidas – The Iconic offers a wide variety of Adidas clothes for your kids, including tracksuits and performance leggings. They even have Disney-branded tracksuits and dance dresses.

Myer

Myer is an excellent go-to source when shopping for kids workout clothes, and they have plenty of options available.

Champion Kids – if you’re after great quality hoodies, sportswear and tees, then this brand is a great choice. Myer stocks a massive range of kids activewear for everyday activities.
Flo Dancewear – If your kid is into ballets, you’ll love the range available from Flo Dancewear. They have several tutus, leotards and ballet shoes to choose from.
Nike – looking for graphic tees and fleece tracksuits for your kids? Then you’d love Nike’s broad array of selection.

Decathlon

Another amazing go-to source on the list is Decathlon. It’s a great place to shop for fitness and sports clothing for your kids at a budget-friendly price. They have a full stock of clothing from hiking tees, basketball jerseys to horse riding tops and tennis skirts. Plus, Decathlon offers a number of kid’s shoes that can cater to whatever type of sports your kids are into.

Rebel Sport

Rebel has a huge range of kid’s activewear, regardless of what activity they are into. After all, Rebel is the home of Aussie fitness and sports. They stock popular brands like Puma, Nike, Underarmour and Elle at an affordable price. They have a selection of sports shoes, too.

SurfStitch

SurfStitch offers a variety of activewear collections perfect for your kid’s everyday activities. The brand is now one of the most popular retailers of surfwear online. From workout clothes to sports shoes, you name it. SurfStitch has got them all for you.

Takeaway

When out shopping for your kid’s workout apparel, being expensive does not always correspond to good quality. As long as you know where to find these affordable workout clothes, then you’re all good. Many popular brands and shops offer a wide assortment that is stylish and inexpensive at the same time, all without compromising the quality. These workout clothes can surely make your kids feel comfortable while they’re moving around.

Jersey February 9, 2022

4 new things you could do while in the Big Apple

What’s better than a trip to New York City? You could go during the holidays and see the giant tree while getting premium gifts for loved ones. Or you could go during the summer, while the weather is nice enough to enjoy a long walk to different attractions. Spring and fall are great for going to Central Park and other outdoor events. Whenever you choose to go, there’s always something amazing happening in NYC.

That said, NYC is a popular tourist destination. It’s very possible that you’ve already seen the more iconic attractions. You might be in the market for something new. Fortunately, there’s a lot of new things in the Big Apple happening at all times.

Below we gathered four things for every member of the family. From the sports fan to the theater junkie, we’ve thought of something for everyone. So give it a quick read and hopefully you find something new for your next trip to NYC.

Take A Swing At Sports Betting

New Yorkers visiting the city will often want to see a sports game. Both the Yankees and Mets play in the city, and Madison Square Garden is home to the Rangers and Knicks. Driving up to the city to hit up a sports bar then see a game is a great weekend trip. It’s hard to top the experience of a big city game, but there’s one new addition that can make things even more exciting.

New York now has legal sports betting, which you can do through sportsbook apps like BetMGM New York. Putting in your own money on the outcome of a game is a fresh way to have something to root for. Now it’s not just the team’s standings you’re vying for, it’s more money in your wallet. This adds a level of tension to a game that brings the thrill to new heights. You can bet on major league sports, college sports, and even attach your account to an online casino account to earn rewards points for goodies.

Experience The Magic Of The Harry Potter Store

NYC is famous for its stores dedicated to various beloved franchises. Disney has a shop, and Nintendo NY is the only store of its kind in the US. Now the Wizarding World of Harry Potter joins the ranks. Fans of the books and movies can grab a butterbeer, add Hogwarts House clothes to their wardrobe, and personalize wands or Quidditch jerseys.

See Broadway’s Latest

While the concept of Broadway itself has been around for awhile, there’s always a new show to see. There are two musicals about iconic stars playing right now: MJ and Tina Turner. David Byrne’s American Utopia offers a new way to experience music on stage. Classic shows like Phantom of the Opera and Wicked are still running, as usual.

Those looking to experience Broadway without the price of tickets can also check out the recent themed stores. The dedicated Hamilton store on 46th often gets exclusive goods and will be the closest many of us get while tickets are still always sold out. For those who can’t get enough of Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, the Drama Book Shop near Madison Square Garden is a newly rebuilt haven for Broadway and Miranda’s works.

Try The Best Pizza In NYC

There’s a lot of great pizza in NYC, but you might’ve missed Francesco’s. Located on 186 Columbus Ave, Francesco’s looks like a quick serve spot for a slice on the run. And it is, but it also offers sit-down customers amazing garlic knots and baked ziti. And of course, the pizza is heavenly. It’s truly a contender for best pizza in the city and is well worth taking a detour to the Upper West Side.

Germany November 4, 2021

The Top Tourist Attractions of New Jersey

Seaside towns are popular tourist attractions in every country with a coastline, and the United States is no different. As people began to settle in the “New World” centuries ago, the famous Atlantic City quickly became the destination of choice for those wanting to enjoy some time at the beach.

Unfortunately for beach lovers though, New Jersey sits at a much higher latitude than California on the West Coast, or Florida further down South. On the other hand, as time has passed and the state has been keen to remain a popular tourist area in the era of cheap air travel, New Jersey has arguably found itself with a broader range of activities than many other tourist states.

Let’s take a look at a handful of New Jersey’s most popular tourist attractions – you might be surprised by just how much there is on offer in the Garden State.

The Boardwalk

We’ll kick things off with the most obvious – you probably already know that Atlantic City is the East Coast equivalent of Las Vegas, with a string of huge casino hotels located along the cities iconic Boardwalk. This of course means that if you like to gamble, there is no better place to be in the Northeastern United States, but there is much more to the boardwalk too.

The Boardwalk is technically a street name (and the most expensive square on the American Monopoly board, replacing London’s Mayfair) but the vast majority is dedicated to the four-mile-long promenade which was first constructed in 1870. Most of the best sightseeing opportunities are located somewhere along the Boardwalk, there is an amusement park named the Steel Pier, the famous “Entrance to the Stars” landmark and several other interesting and exciting historic and cultural attractions.

Princeton Stadium

The Powers Field at Princeton Stadium is primarily used for American Football and is the home of the Princeton Tigers NCAA team. This 27,773-seater stadium was built in 1998 to replace the aging Palmer Stadium and has been maintained to an excellent standard ever since despite not hosting a full NFL team.

Watching a match at Princeton is a great way to experience American Football and is regularly filled to capacity. Those who are visiting Atlantic City to gamble may also enjoy being able to place legal sports bets both online and even at the stadium, with a NJ Sports Betting provider such as Unibet. American’s love to bet on sports, and it remains the only gambling related activity to be fully regulated in (almost) every state.

The Liberty State Park

There’s a famous story regarding New York’s Statue of Liberty, which sits on what was once a disputed island in Upper New York Bay. When the United States was still in its infancy, a row waged between New York and New Jersey over who should own the land inside the bay, which was exacerbated when New York began dredging to create extra land around their Statue of Liberty.

This backfired on New York when the US Supreme Court awarded all of the newly created land to New Jersey, who successfully argued that the turf used to create it had been pulled from New Jersey’s area of the bay.

Today, the two states have long ago put their differences behind them, and the two islands – Liberty Island and Ellis Island –boast 1,212 waterside acres with stunning views of the Statue itself, as well as a designated nature reserve, a host of other memorials and monuments, and recreational facilities for fishing, picnicking, kayaking, and cycling.

Battleship New Jersey

The enormous USS New Jersey is the US Navys most decorated vessel, but was retired some years ago and now serves as an amazing floating museum, moored in a convenient location for tourists on the Delaware River. Visiting the Iowa-class battleship is a must for visitors for the state, who can enjoy a guided tour of one of the largest military vessels ever built.

The USS New Jersey was first built to help fight against German UBoats in World War 2, but also saw action in other conflict zones including Desert Storm. You can even visit the bridge of the ship, where Admiral Halsey once commanded the entire Pacific Fleet. It’s hard not be awestruck by the six high caliber machine guns mounted on deck!

In Conclusion

We’ve barely touched on everything New Jersey has to offer here. Art fans might want to check out the Grounds for Sculpture, whilst youngsters might prefer a day out at The Adventure Aquarium, or the Cape May County Park & Zoo. With New York being just a short drive across the river, you’ll never be short of things to do in this area of the United States.

Jersey September 3, 2021

Best Groomsmen Gifts for All Four Seasons and Some Classic Selections

Great groomsmen gifts should be personal at the same time practical. The difference between a meaningful item and something that just sits on the shelf and collects dust is a thin line – especially so when it comes to wedding-related giveaways. It may be a hard call what to put as groomsmen gifts depending on how close the groom is to his buddies.

Choosing a gift will be easier when the focus is directed to the main point like the wedding theme or the season of the year when the wedding is set. Groomsmen’s gift should be something that is convenient and at the same time, something the groom’s men will surely like. The possibilities are limitless.

Following are top ideas by season that can be readily customized for any groomsmen group, and used instantly during the wedding or later as memorabilia. Remember to wrap them nicely according to the theme wedding and enclosed them with a little thank you card.

Spring Groomsmen Gifts

If the groomsmen are big sports fans and you are having a spring wedding, this may be the ideal time to opt for these gifts. Most sports items like golf and ski equipment are part of the sale schemes of most stores. This season also has two holidays namely, Easter and Memorial Day. These holidays would imply weekend sales. Here are the top picks for spring groomsmen gifts:

Engraved NBA Cufflinks

Who doesn’t love NBA? Keep groomsmen gifts chic and sporty at the same time with these lucrative cufflink designs. Shops can customize the cufflinks depending on the groomsman friend’s favorite basketball team.

Party Tub Cooler

Tub coolers that are large enough to hold cold beverages for parties are can be indispensable items. While chilling after the wedding, groomsmen stay chilling with this groomsmen gift when they are too lazy to get up and get cold drinks from the fridge. They can use this when watching playoffs with friends too. Tub coolers are one handy groomsmen gift!

Pocket Multi-purpose Tool

Whether the men love roughing the great outdoors or just having backyard barbeque because it’s spring, a handy multi-purpose tool may be one of the perfect groomsmen gifts one can ever find. It gets them ready for anything. Some multi-tool includes five or more gadgets like pliers, knives in two sizes, screwdrivers, rulers, bottle openers, and more. It can also be in different sizes to ultimately fit the pocket. This toolset is a classic example of groomsmen gifts that can be used a long way past the big day.

Summer Groomsmen Gifts

Whether having a beach wedding or not, the start and end of the summer season usually bring in major sales days. A lot of activities are done in summer and groomsmen gifts may be picked to make the groomsmen’s summer more enjoyable. There are a lot of things to choose from but here are some of the best practical summer groomsmen gifts you can find:

Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

Summer is here and days are long for endless lake rendezvous, beach outings, pool parties, and other activities. A waterproof Bluetooth speaker may be a great idea for groomsmen gifts. They can play their favorite Spotify playlist.

Canvas Travel Duffle Bags

Travels are frequent during summer as the weather is generally ideal. Whether your groomsmen love to travel for enjoyment or because of fieldwork, travel duffle bags are handy as groomsmen gifts. This kind of bag has plenty of space yet is easy to fit inside suitcases. Canvas bags are also highly customizable.

Wooden Sunglasses

It’s summer and there’s a lot of sun. Why not give quality, wooden sunglasses as groomsmen gifts? These customizable sunglasses usually made from bamboo and polycarbonate (PC) plastic are fantastic gifts.

Fall Groomsmen Gifts

The weather gets cooler in fall and it is the best time to give out groomsmen gifts that they can use not only during the fall wedding but also in the up-and-coming months. Aside from a good bottle of wine for a good price, here are some great choices for groomsmen gifts in fall:

Flasks

Giving out flasks as groomsmen gifts is a classic fall move. This gift can be personalized by engraving the groomsmen’s initials or some other design unique to them. Grooms can also pair the flask with their favorite drink.

Football Jerseys

Fall equals football! Football jerseys can be customized based on the groomsmen’s favorite football team and player. Start asking the person you’ve known the longest and work down from there to avoid risking having the same jersey for two or more persons.

Grooming Kits

Grooming is important for men year-round but fall can be the perfect season for these groomsmen gifts. Try matching the grooming kits with their hair or grooming style. These kits will come in handy when a groomsman already has a mustache or growing a beard. For groomsmen who always keep trimmed facial hair, substitute grooming kits with shaving supply kits.

Winter Groomsmen Gifts

Winter spells holidays! When having a winter wedding, picking out groomsmen gifts is a breeze. Apart from that, almost everything is on sale, this is the time when any gift is pictured as thoughtful. Even so, winter gifts should reflect groomsmen as an important part of the groom’s life.

Wool Scarves

For an outdoor winter wedding, wool scarves are a warmer alternative to neckties and bowties. Wool scarves can also be given as groomsmen gifts. Choose a different color or pattern for each groomsman. Make sure that it fits their style so they would still wear it a lot of times after.

Beanie and Pom-pom Hats

This is a fun groomsmen gift that can be worn during cold weather. This comes in different designs and can also be knit with initials or patterns to make it more personalized. Machine knit beanies are often less stretchable compared to hand-knit versions.

Men’s Gloves

Men’s gloves as groomsmen gifts during winter are not uncommon. Choose gloves that feel particularly soft and smooth against the skin like gloves made of nubuck fabrics. Nubuck leather fabric is also quite elastic and although most are one size, they amazingly fit all hand shapes.

All-Timer Classic Groomsmen Gifts

Of course, some groomsmen gifts go with any wedding, any time of the year. These are items that can be used often and always. They are timeless classics. Here are some of them:

Money Clips

Not all men own a money clip. Gift groomsmen with this and give them a place to insert their cash when on the go. Money clip groomsmen gifts are slim, contemporary alternatives to bulky wallets.

Leather-made Custom Wallets

There are always quality custom wallets made of top-grain leathers when traditional groomsmen gifts are preferred. Custom wallets can be engraved with the groomsmen’s name or initials, a favorite symbol that brings you to mind, or a personal heartfelt message. Leather is very durable and so it lasts a long time and can carry a lot of wear and tear.

Custom watches

Time is priceless. Thus, gifting groomsmen with unique and quality-made watches is a classic move. Make sure to check specifications such as the material used, design and style, size, thickness, strap width, water resistance, and customization options.

Traditionally, the groom gives the groomsmen gifts as a symbol of appreciation after the wedding is over. Nowadays, groomsmen gifting is a lot less unspecified. What matters is that groomsmen’s gifts were selected with care and thoughtfulness. Whatever’s chosen is special and they sure will like it!

City breaks July 20, 2021

Chic city staycation at Bankside Hotel London

It’s the year of the staycation, and from Cornwall to the New Forest, I’ve recently been hunting out some of the hidden gems the UK has to offer. Little did I know that it would be on my doorstep where I’d find one of my favourites. As a Londoner, I can vouch for many of us when I say that staying in the city for a break away never really crosses our minds. However, I can firmly declare that I have been utterly swayed after staying at Bankside Hotel in the city. This six-storey London offering is a delight.

Tucked behind the iconic OXO Tower on the Southbank, this hotel is housed in a neighbourhood that booms with creativity, with the National Theatre, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market being just some of the offerings nearby. You’re immediately captivated by the design of Bankside. As part of the Autograph Collection, it’s clear that the interior heads behind the hotel haven’t done things half-heartedly. Dayna Lee is the mastermind behind the artistic treasure trove. As a former film-set director, she’s certainly injected some of her past profession into the venue, with pinball machines fixed to one wall, and awe-inspiring lighting inside the restaurant. There’s art in the reception, including pieces by British artist Helen Gorrill, immediately grabbing your attention and pulling you in to the visual feast on offer.

The room was superb. There are a total of 161 airy-residential style rooms, split into categories from the Modest Double and Modest Queen, to Generous Queen, Starter Suite and Biggest Suite. Our room was a Starter Suite, and it felt like a home away from home. The first thing to note is the size, with the space existing like a studio apartment with a large (and very cosy) bed, a wraparound sofa which is ideal to laze on and enjoy drinks, and a magnificent bathroom which oozed style. There’s a stunning element to the rooms, with cosy meets rustic charm seen in the form of concrete pillars left unpainted. You can feel the buzz of the city around you and a peek out of the windows gives you a glimpse of the hubbub of Londoners heading out for their post-work sundowners. We’d taken our adorable puppy along to experience the trappings of Bankside – and they’re as dog-friendly as it gets. There was a cosy bed awaiting her and she bounded around in excitement before falling lazily into it and drifting off to the sleep. There’s even a coveted canine concierge service up for grabs, as well as food bowls and treats to keep those tails wagging away.

Before dinner we sank into the sofas inside our charming room, and it was undeniably hard to peel ourselves off them. After a dreamy shower and a freshen up, we waltzed out to the terrace for a T&T. The Tequila and Tonic is fast becoming the staple drink of the summer, which is hardly surprising given it is both refreshing, yet also provides that kick to take you into the evening. The trend can be enjoyed on the terrace, as they’ve partnered with El Rayo Tequila which, we’re sure, will knock your socks off. The beautiful trappings of the terrace allow you to sink into seats surrounded by playful and vibrant modern Mexican artwork, and you can tuck into some fresh ceviche to go hand in hand with your T&T. The bar pops with vibrant colour, and the smiley waiting staff make the tipple that even more enjoyable.

For dinner, eating at the Art Yard Bar & Kitchen is a must. It’s a beautiful setting housed inside the hotel, and it’s both stylish and informal at the same time. The restaurant serves seasonal and fresh food and you can even bring your dog to revel in the eclectic eatery. Picking from the menu came with some difficultly, simply due to being spoilt for choice. I started light with some charred sweetcorn with radicchio, chicory and jalapeño dressing. It was beautifully put together and burst with flavour. For the main, marinated halloumi came up trumps. Side dishes have the ability to be disregarded when it comes to meals, but the two we opted for were so standout that they deserve a sentence or two of their own! The green beans and toasted almonds? Amazing. Toasted almonds always add that sweet kick you need and the sweet and savoury partnership was delightful. We also delved into a pot of seaweed jersey royal potatoes which were hearty and wholesome. What made the evening all the more special was the attentive and thorough service, and a magic trick that has left me scratching my head ever since, performed by one of the mixologists. Breakfast delivered too, with lip-smacking dishes such as waffles with berries and bacon sarnies on offer. I even feasted on a cheese board which set me up perfectly for the day. Tea and coffee – a must for most Londoners – was also served, with bottomless top-ups available, should you need that extra caffeine hit.

The service at Bankside is friendly through and through, with every member of staff making sure you’re well tended to for the duration of your stay. There’s also a keen focus on sustainability, with staff making the effort to reduce their carbon footprints by introducing procedures and processes to control daily energy use, and decreasing energy requirements. As well, several tables in the lobby are made from recycled plastic, and they use low VOC paint throughout Bankside to reduce the emission of harmful toxic chemicals into the air. These are just two of many initiatives implemented by the hotel, with a firm list of goals in place that Bankside would like to achieve, from reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases, to adopting a zero-to-landfill policy.

Whether you use the hotel as a base for your city exploring, or to sink into the beds, head to the gym and indulge in wellness, it ticks both boxes. The hotel is a divine spot to visit to take some ‘me-time’ and you can even embrace your inner gym bunny by heading down and getting your heart pumping using the extensive amount of equipment on offer. This sophisticated and savvy staycation spot was awarded the 2021 Traveller’s “Best of the Best” Award, popping them in the top 1 per cent of all hotels worldwide, and I can hardly say I’m surprised.

What are you waiting for? Book your chic city staycation at Bankside Hotel here now!

Design April 14, 2021

Varenna Founder Arantxa Gandini is redefining activewear for the modern day woman

Amidst the crystal clear waters and rustic villas of Lake Como, a new activewear brand was born. Varenna — established in 2020 by Italian entrepreneur Arantxa Gandini — sits at the intersection of high-fashion and high-performance redefining activewear for the modern day woman.

“Wellness, elegance and beauty at the heart of everything we do,” Arantxa says as she shares the inspirations and distinctive ‘Made-in-Italy’ ethos of her luxury activewear brand.

According to Arantxa, Varenna was “born out of a desire to create clothing using conscious design methods and minimal waste.” In fact, it is the first and only activewear brand to be completely produced in Italy, utilising only high-quality recycled and biodegradable fabrics, reinforcing Arantxa’s own commitment to preserving the environment and contributing towards a greener future.

Taking inspiration from the inimitable beauty of mother nature, Varenna offers refined yet sophisticated sportswear pieces that “give life to the magic that occurs when the natural world meets wise human hands.“

“Our pieces infuse the elegance and sophistication of a luxury fashion label, with the design, performance and versatility of an activewear brand,” adds Arantxa. “Our refined, minimalist aesthetic vision proves that sportswear has indeed become a new expression of contemporary elegance.”

We sit down with Varenna Founder Arantxa Gandini, who invites us to discover the world of Varenna, and learn about the tradition, innovation and passion that inform its lovingly designed and thoughtfully-made collections.

What led you to embark on your journey to create a sustainably luxury activewear brand?

I’ve always felt the need to feel beautiful and elegant, not just at the office or during special occasions, but also while training outdoors, at home, or in the gym. However, I couldn’t find any activewear brands that could satisfy this need.

Because of this, I decided to combine my two biggest passions — sports and fashion — to develop a brand that could meet the elevated tastes and standards of women like myself. So, with my business partner, we founded Varenna with a clear vision in mind. This was to contribute to women’s happiness and to create an environment where wellness, elegance and beauty are at the heart of everything we do.

Tell us more about Varenna’s design ethos. Where does the inspiration for your designs come from?

Our story begins amidst the idyllic beauty of Lake Como, my childhood home. For me, Lake Como has always been the ultimate expression of Italian beauty and way of life. It is a truly magical place where the elegance of the villas seamlessly blend with the majesty of nature.

The main inspiration for our collections come from the natural world in all its forms. From the inimitable lights, patterns, colours and geometries of nature, our collections are born. We design collections that embody the graphic quality and stark symmetries of nature, giving life to the magic that occurs when the natural world meets wise human hands.

Describe Varenna in three words. Tell us more about your brand vision and what sets you apart from other activewear brands in the market today?

Our three main keywords are fashion, sustainable and ‘Made-in-Italy.’ Our mission is as ambitious as it is simple. We combine comfort (an essential feature in any sportswear brand) and glamour, which is something any successful fashion brand has in spades.

Through our collections, we constantly redefine the concept of what an active wardrobe looks like. Our pieces infuse the elegance and sophistication of a luxury fashion label, with the design, performance and versatility of an activewear brand. Our refined, minimalist aesthetic vision proves that sportswear has indeed become a new expression of contemporary elegance.

How important is sustainability to Varenna’s ethos?

In terms of sustainability, we’re always looking for low-impact raw materials and energy solutions. We believe that offering our clients sustainable choices eventually leads to better, more conscious consumer behaviours, resulting in a greener world.

For this reason, we only work with a select network of suppliers in Northern Italy to minimise our carbon footprint. We also put our best efforts towards preventing waste and only using high-quality fabrics from recycled PET bottles and biodegradable sources.

Varenna is the first luxury activewear brand that is completely ‘Made-in-Italy,’ which we hope reaffirms Italy’s position as a leader in the fashion world. Our entire supply chain is sustainable. This begins with design and sourcing the finest recycled Italian fabrics, to our very exacting cut and assembly process, which is as close as ‘made-to-measure’ as you can possibly get in activewear.

For me, tradition, innovation and passion are three words that perfectly describe our collections, which are all lovingly designed, thoughtfully made and packaged in Italy.

What is next for Varenna? What is your long-term vision for the brand?

Our goal is to continue to design and produce elegant, mindfully-made clothes. We believe that brands today have to go beyond simply producing products, which is why we are developing a holistic brand universe that includes fashion, sports and wellbeing.

Our vision is to transform our flagship boutiques into exclusive wellness spaces, where our luxury clientele can relax and take care of their mind and body. At our Varenna boutiques, they can participate in Yoga or Pilates classes, or indulge in some traditional Italian food, reimagined through a lens of wellness and elegance.

Shop #TeamCoco’s top 10 picks from Varenna’s latest collection

Czech Republic April 12, 2021

Jersey is Open : Escape to the Club Hotel & Spa

Here at House of Coco we’ve always had a love affair with Jersey, the island has a real sense of luxury and joy that we’ll never tire of. So hearing the news that from 26th April, the island will be open to visitors from the UK once more, we had to start planning our next visit.

Luxury destination The Club Hotel & Spa and its Michelin-starred restaurant Bohemia in St Helier stunning new packages are perfect for an idyllic summer getaway. With Michelin-starred beach dining, sensational summer spa packages and fabulous family-friendly breaks, there’s something for everyone.

The Ultimate Jersey BBQ

For adventure-seekers and gourmands alike, The Ultimate Jersey BBQ Package combines a one-night stay with an al fresco dining experience like no other. The day starts with an accompanied kayaking adventure that takes guests on a breathtaking exploration along Jersey’s east coast. From there, it’s a trip to The Ecrehous, a cluster of tiny, picturesque islands off where, on a secluded islet beach, your own private chef from Bohemia awaits with an incomparable three-course lunch and fine wines – this has to be the most luxurious way to social distance. Priced from £1,999 for two people including an overnight stay and breakfast.

Time to Relax

Boasting world-class spa facilities and indoor and outdoor pools, book a stay in one of the hotel’s beautiful bedrooms or suites before slipping into total relaxation mode at The Club Spa. An extensive treatment list will leave you spoilt for choice and ensures pampering from top to toe. The Cleansing Spa Retreat (from £478 B&B) is perfect for those seeking deep restoration. Head to the spa where your experience will start with a full body brushing and exfoliating with sea salt and seaweed, before enjoying a warm body envelopment of rich stimulating algae and essential oils.

A mineral hair treatment with tension relieving massage is next, followed by a blissful full body massage using lemon and juniper, and then a gentle cleansing facial to leave you glowing and radiant. To finish, a Tibetan foot massage offers deep cleansing and exfoliation, leaving you silky smooth and totally refreshed. Spend the night in one of the hotels beautiful bedrooms and enjoy a delicious breakfast the next morning, before you head out to explore all that Jersey has to offer.

A Family Friendly Getaway

If you’re travelling with little ones, The Club Hotel & Spa offers everything you need for a luxury family break. With swimming pools, beaches within walking distance and Jersey Zoo and the ‘aMazin’ Adventure Park there’s plenty to do. Family rooms are suitable for two adults and up to two children, and VI(Little)Ps are well catered for with access to games and books and a welcome gift of the Club Teddy Bear. Essentials, including cots, bouncy chairs, and changing mats are all available and children are more than welcome at Michelin-starred Bohemia.

The Club Hotel & Spa – the staycation destination that has it all.