As we start to layer up with denim jackets, wraps, hats and scarves this autumn we also start to update the colours we wear. Summer-brights are put away to the back of the wardrobe and autumn browns, deep purples, dark blues, greens, greys and deep rich pinks start to make an appearance, and it’s exactly the same with our nail polish colours.
The #TeamCoco girls are embracing much darker tones and hues this season on their nails from the beautiful Wild About Nature collection of colours by CND Vinylux, to the dark sultry colours of Benecos, and the stunning W7 Cosmetics in Suede.
CND Vinylux, Wild About Nature Collection comprises of 6 beautiful shades for autumn including; Blue Moon (deep cobalt blue), Dreamcatcher (rich dusky purple), Arrowhead (creamy earth), Spear (muted terracotta), Element (warm soft red) and Brimstone (beige neutral). Priced at £10.95 each, from Nail Polish Direct online.
Benecos, Vamp is a deep purple with a hint of red, a warm polish for the season. Vamp is made with additional avocado and biotin for depth and structure. There are 20 colours in the Benecos nail polish collection all of which are free from bad stuff like formaldehydes, camphor, parabens and much more. Priced at £6.95 each, from Benecos online.
W7 Cosmetics hold a serious amount of nail colours for each and every season, there are just too many colours to mention, but for autumn we are in awe of 70 Suede, it’s a wonderful chic grey/brown, perfectly suited for day or night. Priced at £4.95 each, from W7 Cosmetics online.
If you are a serious nail polish fan then you should know about the latest app by NailBuff, a free app that allows you to find the ideal nail polish shade from their vast library of brands, including essie, OPI and butter LONDON and others. You upload a photo or scroll using the unique touch screen technology. Perfect for when you need to match a particular bag, pair of shoes, or outfit. Search the App Store for NailBuff, or via Instagram nailbuffapp.
Some of the #TeamCoco girls are serious when it comes to vodka, they would even class themselves as vodka connoisseurs, so for those of you who are only just hearing about this wonderful day to celebrate all things vodka, here is a round up of general info to get you in the mood for a little vodka based cocktail or two!
Stats
National Vodka Day falls on 4th October annually. It runs across the world not just in the UK, National Vodka Day has been running since 2009 when it launched in United States.
In Russia, 31st January is Russian Vodka Day.
More vodka is produced in Poland and Russia than anywhere else in the world, this area is known as the vodka belt and also includes Ukraine, Belarus, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Events
This National Vodka Day is being celebrated at London Cocktail Week with international mixologist Joe McCanta who will be mixing some vodka cocktails especially for the event. Joe is an expert on taste and brings together a passion for great cocktails made from the freshest ingredients and the creative skill of a master mixologist. Joe has delivered master classes at trade shows including London International Wine Fair, and he has worked alongside world-famous chefs, including Alain Ducasse, Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay.
Joe says; ‘’My favourite vodka-based cocktail will be Vodka Martini, it’s the best cocktail for tasting the actual spirit and expressing the flavours. It’s a classic authentic cocktail which has stood the test of time, which makes it the perfect drink for any occasion. And to end the night it has to be the Espresso Martin, it’s rich, indulgent and deliciously smooth ’’.
Launches
October 4th sees the world famous vodka brand GREY GOOSE reintroduce an all-time favourite back into the UK. GREY GOOSE La Vanille is due to make its revival at London Cocktail Week amidst much anticipation and excitement. The essence of GREY GOOSE La Vanille is the discerning spirit for any cocktail, from an early afternoon GREY GOOSE La Vanille Spritz to a late-night GREY GOOSE La Vanille Espresso Martini cocktail, there is a perfect serve for every occasion.
GREY GOOSE La Vanille is due for national release into top bars across London and parts of the UK, and available to purchase from Amazon and Ocado from mid-October. RRP £40.
Retail
We are loving the vodka based lines at Hotel Chocolat, with their collection of Cocoa Vodka Liqueur made with 70% full bodied dark chocolate, lashings of fresh cream and vodka (priced at £25), and the dreamy Salted Caramel Cocoa Vodka, with a whole cocoa bean inside each bottle and a hint of Maldon sea salt, oozing caramel, cocoa and English vodka (priced at £25). Available from UK stores or online from Hotel Chocolat.
Cocktail Recipes
London Cocktail Club has very kindly put together two of their fave all-time vodka based cocktails for us to try at home. If you are visiting London and fancy trying one of these cocktails then head over to Liverpool Street for the London Cocktail Club’s vodka focused venue.
Sally-Ann Dunn & Bartosz Wozniak are the founders of Baltic Beauty – an online jewellery brand, inspiring a modern image of timeless amber jewellery.
In this current age of disposable fashion, the pair are working together to promote meaningful jewellery with no expiry date. Through their photos, social media and online blog – they’re creating a new avenue for styling the natural Amber stone for the modern woman.
Here, we go behind the brand to find out more…
When did you launch the brand and what was the reason behind it? Baltic Beauty first began in 2014, after a romantic weekend vacation to the shores of the Baltic Sea in Gdansk, Poland. It was there that we (my fiancé and I) discovered the beauty of Baltic Amber. Upon returning to the UK, we realised the rarity of amber in the English jewellery market, and most notably amongst young women. So, from our shared university room, we started our own Etsy store – proposing a new way of styling amber jewellery for the modern woman. Since then, Baltic Beauty has become an established online brand, with its designs sold all across the globe.
How many people are involved in the company and what are their roles? Baltic Beauty is solely ran by myself, Sally-Ann and my fiancé, Bartosz. We work on everything together as a team, with the creative branding side led mainly by myself, with Bart acting, more often than not, as the workhorse! Bart is a professional photographer, so often finds himself hidden behind his camera, responsible for all of our brands images. Being the only female, I find myself pushed in front of the camera, acting as the model for our brand. Other than having our own distinct skill sets, we generally run everything together – from collection design to customer service, we’re a team!
What is your background? [Sally-Ann] Interestingly, I actually studied Biology at the University of Exeter and was initially planing on become a doctor or medical researcher. However, from a young age I have always been creative. Up until the age of about 15, I used to make my family Christmas presents, from pyjama cases to rugby ball money boxes and phone holders. I sort of lost this creative passion whilst taking up an academic route, but quickly found it again upon starting Baltic Beauty – and I have no intention of ever losing it again!
[Bart] I am Polish, I was born and raised in Poland, so english is actually my second language. But, my proud Polish heritage is what kind of inspired Baltic Beauty to begin with. Originally, I also took up an academic route of study at University, I studied Law at Exeter, and almost completed a masters at the University of Rennes, France. My passion for working for ourselves and working alongside Sal, is what led me to the realisation that I really don’t ever want a legal career, and so I quit the course 3 weeks before the end!
If you could start over with the business, would you do anything differently? I’m actually not sure that we would do anything differently, I am so proud of how Baltic Beauty is progressing and all decisions have led to where we are now. The only thing I think we could have done, is make more use of the networking opportunities whilst at University.
What is the hardest challenge you have faced since you started the company? The hardest challenge is essentially our mission – and will continue to be the hardest but most rewarding thing about our brand, and that is that we are trying to create a new target audience. Amber has always been a “stone” associated with older women, I know for example that my Nan’s favourite jewellery was Amber. Not only that, but thanks to high street clothes stores such as TopShop, Zara, etc. disposable jewellery has become such a popular choice. But we’re trying to show a youthful and modern audience, that Amber and timeless, meaningful jewellery is beautiful. It is our belief that a jewellery piece bears no expiry, but offers a lifetime of enjoyment, captivation and meaning. And, the exclusive beauty of our jewellery, is not only in its timeless design, but also that with each Amber stone, you own a completely unique and physical piece of history and time.
2017 is here, where do you plan on taking the brand? We’re planning on taking Baltic Beauty even further, maybe into some physical stores, maybe expanding further internationally – every day we are pushing more and more, so the possibilities are endless! In the next year, I would like to create a Baltic Beauty catalogue and lay down a number of key designs which will be here to stay – at the moment we get a bit carried away and add new designs every day!
To date, what has been the highlight since launching? [Sally-Ann] For me, it was the launch of our packaging. It sounds silly but I spent about a year, designing, creating and organising our very own branded jewellery boxes. It was the bane of my existence at the time, but seeing my hard work come to life was very special!
[Bart] A highlight since launching was definitely the transition from being a student and having Baltic Beauty as a hobby to working on it full time. We made the conscious decision to choose our own business over any safe career path – a terrifying but liberating moment.
Which city do you feel most at home in, London, Paris or New York? Definitely London, since being together we have always made an conscious effort to go to there regularly. It’s just something about London that makes you feel like you can do anything. It’s so cheesy, but after growing up in the countryside, London is just full of opportunity. Whether through networking, shopping or the sheer choice of coffee bars – you have everything you could possibly need within a relatively small radius.
Three beauty products you can’t leave the house without?
My Fiorelli handbag – the perfect cross body bag for holding all of the essentials
Lipstick – I’m in love with the Loreal Paris Matte Addiction in Mocha Chic but also, I am a sucker for Kylie Jenner’s Matte lipgloss too.
Style means….? [Sally-Ann] For me, style means conveying your personality. Your choices of style speaks volumes about your character. From the nail varnish you wear to the jewellery you accessorise with, to the colour you paint your bedroom walls, it is all a subtle description of who you are.
[Bart] Style means the ability to portray yourself appropriately in any given setting. I genuinely believe it is the opposite of fashion, fashion comes and goes but style is a timeless state of expression.
Statement shoe or statement bag? Always a statement shoe – Bart will forever have me on a shoe embargo, I could purchase a new pair every day.
If you had to, what piece of clothing from your wardrobe would you wear everyday? [Sally-Ann] I would choose black skinny jeans – they just look great with everything. Whether you throw on an oversized jumper for comfort, or a shirt and blazer – you can style them so easily.
[Bart] My grey knitted jumper, that I got as a gift from Sal – I’m pretty sure that it’s from a supermarket in France, but it’s so versatile and easy to style that it would get me through most situations.
Best place for a coffee? We love visiting new spots for a coffee – any small, cute and quirky location. But, we have to admit that our most visited coffee house is Costa Coffee.
If you could spent 24 hours in anywhere in the world, where would it be? [Sal] This is such a difficult question – as keen travellers, we have so many places we’d love to visit. But if it was only 24 hours, it would have to be someplace in the middle of nowhere. Maybe, in the Black Forest of Germany – just us and the sound of nature.
[Bart] For me, I would choose Whistler in Canada – 24 hours of skiing in the biggest ski resort in Canada? Yes please.
Find out more… You can shop our Amber Jewellery collections on our website (www.balticbeauty.co.uk), alternatively via our Etsy or Handmade at Amazon stores. Also, follow us on social media to explore how we style our amber jewellery and discover the fun behind the scenes!
Every once in a while you dine at a restaurant that you’ve never been to before and realise you’ve been missing out. Kasa & Kin Filipino Restaurant is that very place. It’s one of those places where you could take friends, your family, or even a date for a romantic meal. Discover the charm of Kasa Kin Filipino Restaurant today!
Soho has an abundance of choice, everywhere you turn there’s somewhere to have dinner, but Kasa & Kin is a little different. By day it’s a Filipino bakery and patisserie, lunch is served in the restaurant, and the evening buzz is around the restaurant, with the bakery open for takeaway treats.
Owned by Chris and Rowena, Kasa & Kin’s ethos is warm and welcoming. The team are not only friendly and approachable but they are seriously knowledgeable about Filipino Cuisine.
The menu oozed deliciousness even before anything hit our lips, and the smell was a mixture of herbs and spices and sweet bread. We couldn’t wait to tuck into our first dish.
The Food at Kasa & Kin
We chose the seafood BBQ platter to start, with baby squid and chilli king prawn. Then we had chilli chicken rice paper spring rolls and a couple of the dips and sauces on the side. They included spiced bagoong mayo (mayo with fermented shrimp paste) and calamansi aioli (Filipino citrus lime, garlic, soy & mayo).
More dishes followed including lemongrass chicken inasal, chilli king prawn, and Portobello mushrooms from the pinoy grill. Side dishes we opted for were; garlic fried rice, stir-fried greens with pak choy, and Kasa pickled cucumber & apple atchara.
Where do we start with explaining how good these dishes were? The platter was divine, especially when dipped in the sauces, and the chilli was hinted at rather than overpowered. The spring rolls were super light and delicately fragrant with lemongrass.
The standout dish was the chicken inasal, which was mouth-wateringly good. Marinated in annatto oil, ginger, chilli and lemongrass it was simply outstanding, and the talking point at our table. It melted in the mouth, left the most wonderful aromatic flavours, and could easily win every food award!
Not that we had any room left for dessert, but we couldn’t leave without trying the infamous tsunami cheesecake. With a choice of 6 to choose from we plumped for dulce de leche and mango, and neither disappointed. The dulce de leche was rich and indulgent, and the mango was light and fruity.
Filipino Pandesal Bread at Kasa & Kin
We took home some Filipino pandesal bread from the bakery to enjoy the following day. Pandesal is a quintessential sweet bread from the Philippines made with various flavours including; activated charcoal, annatto, chocolate, and purple yam.
This was a food experience to be savoured and one that we will remember forever. So, the next time you are in London’s Soho make the time to dine at Kasa & Kin and enjoy Filipino cuisine.
Located at 52/53 Poland Street, Soho, London, W1F 7NQ. Visit Kasa & Kin to book a table to view the menus and check out their Instagram @kasaandkin.
Warm weather means that we get to put away our chunky knitwear and puffy coats, swap them for sexy camis and tanks, and venture outdoors with sandals on our feet and soft-serve ice cream in our hands. But we can’t help but miss our sweatpants, leggings, and other loungewear pieces. Leggings are comfy, incredibly flattering, and great for working out. You’re bound to feel uber-confident in them. However, they can become too hot during warm weather.
That’s where shorts come into play, and, thankfully, they are popping up everywhere. Unfortunately, it can be tricky to find a perfect pair of shorts that’ll actually flatter your body type like leggings. We’ve rounded up five of the comfiest and trendiest short styles you should keep on your radar this summer. They aren’t your average shorts, either. These beauties come in a wide range of fabrics, lengths, and rises, with silhouettes that will actually accentuate your curves and flatter your body type.
1. High-Waisted Shorts
High-waisted shorts are an evergreen choice for spring and summer – and for good reason. These high-rise pieces accentuate your waist and flatter your curves, making them an excellent pick for women with apple and hourglass body types. Thanks to their rise and generous waist-line, these shorts give you more waist definition and coverage for your tummy. Some of them feature tummy control features, allowing you to look gorgeous and feel confident all day long.
We highly appreciate the versatility that comes with styling high-waisted shorts for women. SanctuaryClothing suggests to go for something casual and simple like a button-down or a plain white blouse so that your statement-making shorts can steal the limelight. If you’re gunning for a casual, cuter look, consider pairing your favorite graphic t-shirt with a high-quality pair of high-waisted shorts. When pairing colors, black on white is the best way to pull off the high-rise short silhouette.
Low-top sneakers, strappy sandals, and even satin-heeled chunky platforms are examples of superb shoe options to style with these shorts. Be that as it may, we’re forever loyal to boots when it comes to creating a cool look with longer short lengths. Plus, covering more skin will help fend off the chill on those cool late summer days.
2. Biker Shorts
Biker shorts were all the rage throughout the 1980s and the 1990s, and then they almost sank into oblivion. Their modern resurgence is nothing short of sensational, and it’s one short trend that has been embraced left, right and center. Nowadays, trendsetting models, designers, celebrities, street-style stars, and Instagram influencers continue to make a case for biker shorts outside of the activewear department. Biker shorts are super-comfy, chic, and flatter just about any body type, often used to contour and tone thighs, hips, and legs. And, above all, these buttery-soft pieces can be whatever you want them to be in your outfit.
If you wish to add a casual athleisure vibe to your outfit, team your biker shorts with a sweatshirt and a graphic tee. You can dress up your shorts with a structured, patterned coat or blazer and wear a fashionable belt to amp up your ensemble’s sophistication factor. Moreover, boxy leather handbags (preferably a crossbody piece), gold necklaces, or other pieces of layered jewelry can help make your biker shorts look more luxurious and stylish. It’s a trick that most celebs and fashion icons like Kim Kardashian use to look expensive without breaking the bank.
If casual combinations are your thing, you’ll appreciate the combo of charcoal biker shorts and a gray crew-neck t-shirt with a layered gold necklace. Elevate the polish level of your outfit with a pair of suede boots.
3. Denim Shorts and Denim Cut-offs
Ditch stiff and super-tight denim shorts for chic and comfy pieces. Denim shorts with straight cuts and high rise have also made a comeback, providing you with the much-needed elongating effect for mile-high sexy legs. The good thing about denim shorts is that they come in unlimited fits, washes, lengths, and rises, so there’s something flattering for you no matter your size, body type, or taste. Denim shorts are a true classic and an evergreen summer short style that won’t let you down.
When styling denim shorts, wear long-sleeve tops for a boho look that’ll get you oodles of compliments. Or, keep it simple by pairing your shorts with a thin white button-down and your favorite pair of low-top sneakers. If you wish to show off more of your beautiful figure, consider a pair of longer denim shorts with distressed details. Want to make your shorts a bit more formal? Why not introduce a pair of satin-heeled sandals and an oversized blazer? This chic, formal outfit is so easy to pull off that it’ll only take a few minutes.
4. Bermuda Shorts
Long shorts caused a lot of tongue-wagging when they made a surprise return to the street styles, social media, and the runway earlier this year. Many trendsetting fashion stars and celebs have embraced the lengthy short trend since. And while their popularity comes in waves, it’s now obvious that Bermuda shorts are here to stay. If you’re unsure what to wear on warm summer days, Bermuda shorts should be your secret style option. They generate plenty of elongating effects for women with pear body types. With hemlines that reach the lower thighs, they also help balance your tall upper half.
Keeping things casual is the secret to styling long shorts like a model or fashion pro. A typical combination is a slim black tank top and a pair of ripped denim Bermudas. To add a little more casual factor to your ensemble, wear a pair of low-top flat sneakers. Or, consider pairing a beautiful cashmere sweater with oversized leather Bermuda shorts for an unquestionable luxe look. Some height in your shoes will help make the long shorts feel feminine and sexy, but don’t go too high. A good pair of kitten heels is ideal.
5. Paper-Bag Shorts
“Bag It” is the general theme for buying, wearing, and styling shorts this summer, and justifiably so. Paper-bag shorts tend to sit high on the waist and are a little more tailored than tie-waist shorts. These features make them ideal for women with inverted triangle-shaped bodies who wish to offset their wide shoulders. Paper-bag shorts are also great for pear-shaped body types, as they offer added waist definition and provide more coverage.
When wearing paper-bag shorts, it pays to keep casual and cozy. A fitted crop top or a simple graphic t-shirt may be all you need to make them shine. A long, oversized coat or blazer may provide the warmth you need during nighttime events. However, if you wear paper-bag shorts, stick to monochromatic color palettes to ensure that your outfit is lean and long.
Wrap-Up
You’re not alone if you struggle with shopping or styling shorts for warm weather, but, thankfully, today’s shorts come in a variety of fabrics, rises, lengths, and fits that can flatter any body or look.
You only need to turn on your TV for two minutes to hear about what’s going on in Ukraine, but we rarely get to hear about how that affects people that live their or their livelihoods. For one business owner, she managed to use the negativity it as a way of giving back to the place she once called home.
Here, we talk to the founder of Coco Moka to find out more about her plans with her activewear brand, how knowing that her family are safe is her priority and what her plans are for the brand for the next five years…
Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching your brand Coco Moka…
I was born in Ukraine, Chernihiv after I finished University in Chernihiv with a specialization in two subjects Psychology and History, I moved to Finland to study International business and Marketing. In Finland I enjoyed nature, and learned about sustainability and recycling. Finland has the cleanest water you can drink from the tap, clean air, they have nature everywhere. They take care of their country and want to pass it on to the next generations.
During the Erasmus program in Finland, I came for a year to study Business and Marketing in Ireland. I still recall it as one of the best years of my life. Unfortunately, I developed an allergy during my time in Ireland and I got a rash on my skin from wearing synthetic clothing.
After I completed my studies in Finland, I moved to London to study a master’s degree in Business Psychology and after a few years studying and working in London, I came back to Ireland. In Ireland I worked in the tech industry specialising in digital advertising sales.
All during which I was looking for activewear which would not irritate my skin. During the pandemic, I decided to create activewear for myself because I could not find on the market anything like the performance activewear which would be suitable for people like me.
This is when Coco Moka was born. Coco Moka was created to solve two problems. I wanted to have activewear which would help to reduce skin irritation. Also, I wanted to make sure that the creation of activewear was not polluting our planet. We use OceanBalance fabrics to create our activewear. For every 2 kilograms (4.4. pounds) of OceanBalance™ yarns to produce sustainable fabrics, the environmental benefits include conserving five days of drinking water for one person and reducing the consumption of oil-based products by 3.785 litres.
You provide activewear for sensitive skin, why was this important to you?
When I developed my skin sensitivity, I did not know what to do about my irritated skin but I later realised that improving the quality of my life was up to me. I began by eating healthily and getting active with sports, however most sportswear would irritate my skin.
This inspired me to create my own line of luxury activewear, made of silky and smooth fabrics that would give me the feeling of a second skin. I kept this idea with me for many years, but I only started actively working on it during the pandemic.
I researched different fabrics until I found several types of eco-friendly materials which were soft like silk, yet flexible and durable for performance sports activities.
How do you want women to feel when wearing your clothes?
I want them to feel confident and beautiful. I want to help them enjoy sports with comfortable and eco-friendly clothing. I want women to find something that works for them. When women are wearing Coco Moka, I want them to enjoy the feeling of silky fabric on the skin. We focused on a few main values when we were working on the pillars of the brand. I wanted to make sure we created activewear so women could find quality, design and sustainability.
Slow and ethical fashion is at the forefront of what you do, can you tell us more about that?
Slow fashion is a key value of our business. I will give you some examples of why it is important.
“Fashion accounts for around 10% of greenhouse gas emissions from human activity, but there are ways to reduce the impact your wardrobe has on the climate. Annually, apparel manufacturing releases around 1.2 billion tons of greenhouse gases.” (as quoted from BBC‘s article by Christine Ro*)
We are keen supporters of slow fashion which aims to reduce the textile waste clogging our landfills. This means our production schedules are slower and get produced in smaller batches, meaning that we have zero waste designs.
When I am running out of stock, I let my clients know that it will take a few weeks for us to produce the item that they are looking for.. This gives me confidence that with time consumer behaviours will shift more from mass-market towards slow fashion.
Looking back since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?
Yes, I would do many things differently. I know so much more now. I have learned a lot. I continue learning every day. I made mistakes but that is a part of the learning process.
I know now which designs are selling better and so I would invest more into some designs and less in others. I understand more now about the power of branding and brand awareness and focusing on building consumers’ trust. I understand better where I can find Italian eco-friendly performance fabrics we are using for our collections. How to find and be accepted by market places, how to work with different social media channels. It takes time and effort to learn what works and what doesn’t. I am still in the beginning of the long journey of building a brand that will stand the test of time.
However, I was very lucky to find a mentor who had already created her own fashion and activewear business, from a very small investment. I was working on the brand together with my mentor who helped me learn faster about the world of running an activewear business.
Collaboration with my mentor saved me a lot of time and investment. I worked with my mentor to source and test the right fabrics, design samples of the collection, produce the collection, find suppliers and distribution channels.
Talk us through an average day in your life…
I have to say I am very lucky. I truly believe and follow what Marc Anthony said: “ If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. “
I wake up early and start my day with gratitude, I thank the day for giving me an opportunity to live it fully and create something useful.
I am a coffee lover, I am not only drinking it but I wear it. We use in our collection one type of fabric made from recycled coffee. So in the morning I will have a cup of coffee and I will spend time looking out at the beautiful nature from my window in Dublin before I open my emails and start working on the tasks I have outlined for the day.
I love sports, but I became active and a bit more athletic later in my life. Last year when I turned 40 I made a promise to myself that from now on sport is a part of my routine, the same way as brushing teeth every morning.
I do not follow an exact schedule when I exercise. I do not prefer specific times like in the morning, lunch or in the evening. It depends on how busy my schedule is and when I have a free slot to do it. But I make sure I do 3-4 times per week some type of activity, walking, cycling, jogging, hiking, or following video classes at home.
During the day, in the evening and sometimes during weekends I work on operational and strategic tasks. As it is still early days in the business,I do take care of many aspects of it myself.
The most exciting part of the day, which I will never call work, is when I work on creating the new collection. I gather ideas together, make some sketches, choose fabrics, colours eetc. For my next collection I have collaborated with a talented Ukrainian illustrator Ksen Kryvonos, www.ksen.design who is based in Amsterdam and is working with me on the next project which has been in the works for almost a year and a half. Through her illustrations my vision of this collection is brought to life. I like to collaborate with different people to bring diversity and different talents to the brand.
During the time, when we worked on establishing the brand we were focusing on building the brand identity. My business partner Olga Garajeva and I collaborated with brand identity Ukrainian designer Daria Solomenko @darkdonna. We had many meetings during the time we worked together on creating the brand identity to reflect, through visual representation, the values of unique and luxury fabrics, sustainability and European design.
Sometimes, unfortunately not as often as I would like to, I participate in the photoshoots. I love photoshoots because I can see how happy models are when they wear our outfits. I feel satisfied and happy when I see models wearing my products and truly enjoying it.
Unfortunately, since February 24th my day changed, I woke up to the news about the war in my country. My family just evacuated from Chernihiv, Ukraine and they did not want to leave in the beginning, until the city was completely destroyed. I flew to Poland last week to meet them for the first time after the war started. Now they are safe and staying with me in Ireland.
During the past month I had to rethink and re evaluate many things in my life. I saw very clearly what was important and how fragile life can be.
While I was focusing on helping my family and my country I was leaning on collaborations with my mentor Elena Gromova @elena_gromova_fashlab and creative director Olga Garajeva @olgagarajeva and a digital agency who helps with our social marketing.
They helped to finalise the new collection and organise our last photoshoot which will be available in the beginning of May.
How long does it take you to work on a new product and what’s the process behind that?
It usually takes a long time, around 6 – 8 months. The process starts with imagining the look and feel of the product, then I find visually something similar that inspires me to create a sketch and discuss it with my mentor.
She helps me to understand if what I imagine can also be practical for women who will wear it. Sometimes I can see beautiful designs in my head but when I think about it, the outfit will not be practical.
After I decide to proceed with the design I choose fabrics, accessories if needed and we send it to the pattern maker. Based on the simplicity or difficulty of the product the sample can take from a few days to 5-6 weeks. It will usually take 3 tries of the sample to get to the final product.
After we approve production, it takes us up to 6 weeks, sometimes even longer to produce a collection. This is a slow fashion process and we make a continuous decision to work with slower production times. We have to plan in advance our stock level, taking into consideration production time is longer than in mass-market.
We just finished working on the second collection. We made soft see through skirts from plisse fabric, which you can wear on top of shorts or leggings and combine it with different tops and jackets. You can wear skirts on top of shorts or leggings together with a jacket, walk to the gym and come back looking stylish before, during and after your workout.
But I had one product which I created very quickly. In March I made a simple recycled organic T-shirt. I used my own paint to print it over the T-shirt to support Ukraine. I made two designs with slight variations of the print. I shared sales of this product to support humanitarian efforts back home.
How much has social media played a role in the success of your brand?
Social media plays a very important part of building any business, but fashion and active wear businesses it’s even more important. We are only at the beginning of this journey and we understand it will take some time and some investment to build a successful brand presence on social media.
Different channels have different nuances: what will work for Instagram will not work on Twitter. Brands should not ignore TikTok and get there even if they think the audience is too young for them.
We have a strategy for each channel and are working on slowly building organic presence first. We want to start with building a community who are interested in what we do and want to follow us because they want to know more about our brand. It takes time and we are willing to work on it until we succeed.
What is your go-to quote when lacking motivation?
I like this quote “Don’t stop until you are proud”.
What does self care mean to you?
Self-care means to me to be healthy physically and mentally so I can focus on what I love to do and spend quality time with important people in my life.
Where do you see the brand in the next 5 years?
I want Coco Moka in 5 years to have a B Corp Certification. I am building the business process with the questions in mind about how the brand will benefit customers, communities and the planet.
I want the brand to be recognised as one of the leading brands that provide luxury quality outfits for people with sensitive skin.
I want to reduce the negative impact fashion production has on our planet.
I will continue to focus my efforts to help Ukraine in humanitarian aid. I made an initiative to help the community where I offer a 60% discount on all products for Ukrainians who left the country because of the war and moved to Europe.
When it comes to car detailing, there are a lot of dos and don’ts. Many people don’t know where to start, and they often make mistakes that can ruin the finish of their car. In this article, we will discuss some of the most important do’s and don’ts when it comes to car detailing like what is snow foam. We spoke with some professionals in the industry who gave us their best tips! So, if you want to learn how to detail your car like a pro, keep reading.
1. DO Get Rid of the Trash
One of the first things you should do when you start detailing your car is to get rid of any trash that may be in it. This includes anything from fast food wrappers to old newspapers. Not only is this garbage an eyesore, but it can also attract bugs and other pests. If you have any food in your car, be sure to throw it away before you start cleaning. As suggested by the professionals at AutoGuysLand, the smart thing would be to purchase a trash can for your car so that you can easily dispose of any garbage. You can find small, compact trash cans that fit perfectly in your car.
2. DON’T Use Harsh Detergents
When cleaning the inside of your car, it’s important to use gentle, non-toxic cleaners. Many people make the mistake of using harsh detergents, which can damage the upholstery and cause fading. Stick to gentle soaps and avoid using any abrasive cleaners. You can find specially-formulated car cleaners that are designed to be gentle on the interior of your vehicle. These cleaners will do a great job of cleaning without damaging the surfaces. However, before you jump to purchase a cleaner, check the labels to ensure that it is safe for use on your car’s specific materials.
3. DO Use Organizers
One of the best ways to keep your car clean is to invest in some organizers. This will help you keep all of your belongings in one place and prevent them from becoming scattered throughout the car. You can find a variety of organizers that fit perfectly in your car’s trunk, backseat, or even under the seats. For example, you can keep organizers in your trunk for when you go grocery shopping, or you can use them to store your sports equipment. By having everything in its place, you’ll be able to keep your car much cleaner. And the best thing is that you can find these organizers in many different styles and colors to match your car’s interior.
4. DON’T Use the Sponge
When washing your car’s exterior, it’s important to avoid using a sponge. Sponges can cause scratches and swirl marks on the paint, which will make your car look dull. Instead, use a soft cloth or a wash mitt. These materials are designed to be gentle on the paint and will not cause any damage. Be sure to use a separate cloth or mitt for each area of the car, such as the wheels and body. This will prevent any dirt or grime from being transferred from one area to another. In addition, wheels are more likely to be covered in brake dust, which can damage the paint if it’s not removed properly.
5. DO Polish It
After you’ve washed and dried your car, it’s time to polish it. Polishing will help to remove any scratches or swirl marks that may be on the paint. It will also give the car a deep shine. When polishing, be sure to use a high-quality product. You can find polishes specifically designed for cars at your local auto parts store. For example, you can find polishes that contain Carnauba wax, which is a type of natural wax that will give your car’s paint an extra shine.
6. DON’T Forget the Tires
One of the most important parts of detailing your car is to clean the tires. Tires can become very dirty, especially if you live in an area with a lot of dust or road debris. When cleaning the tires, be sure to use a brush designed specifically for this purpose. You can find these brushes at most auto parts stores. In addition, be sure to use a rubber protectant on the tires after they’ve been cleaned. This will help to keep them from becoming dry and cracked.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your car looking its best. Detailing your car is an important part of car ownership, and it’s something that you should do regularly. By taking the time to detail your car, you’ll be able to enjoy it for many years to come.
There’s no need for Valentine’s Day to be met by a collective groan from singles. In fact, why not use the day of love to invest in yourself with one of these decadent gifts. Whether you have a partner or not, let February 14th be the day for spoiling… yourself. Light a candle, draw a relaxing bath, and slip into something more comfortable for a night that’s all about you. After all, self-love is the best love.
These gifts range from little treats to luxurious buys, with our curation of Valentine’s Day gifts keeping self-care front of mind. The gifts we tend to give ourselves are largely practical – we often splash out on the things we need, rather than want. There will be none of that here, with sumptuous and indulgent buys you perhaps wouldn’t normally justify. Have a loving partner? We still recommend treating yourself. After all, nobody loves you like you do.
Damesfly Candles, available at Harvey Nichols, from £48. With touching messages that keep it real, Australian candle brand Damesfly are a great choice for getting cozy with this Valentine’s Day.
2.Yaa Yaa London ‘Quietly Confident’ Pink Earrings, £59. These statement earrings are handmade using precious stones and are beautiful and unique – just like you. Brushed metal is teamed with gate crystal-lined stones to create these eye-catching earrings, with no two pairs the same.
3. The Stopover: The Mile High Club by T L Swan, available at Amazon, from £4.99. Fasten your seatbelt, you’re in for a real ride. There’s a reason why our wellness editor and editor-in-chief are raving about this saucy slice of escapism. And the good news is, there’s a sequel.
4. Ivy Ekong Fashion Amie Dress, £159. There’s power dressing, then there’s the blazer dress. This beautiful tweed dress can be worn both day and night.
5. Hill & Friends Its Lit Candle, £55. Scented candles are our love language. And this special treat is scented with a medley of pomegranate, pepper, and spice with a tang of blackcurrants.
6. BEAU Polish Chan Y’all Feel The Love, £7.50. BEAU Polish is a small, independent beauty brand championing inclusivity. We love this bright and bold shade in pillar box red – perfect for a statement V-Day mani.
7. Yogipod Relaxation Gift Bundle, £20. We love this gift box of hand-printed yoga props brand that will help you find your calm and encourage a moment of zen this Valentine’s Day.
8. Little Moons ‘You Mean So Mochi To Me’ gift box, available to purchase from Deliveroo, Heavenly Desserts, Westfield London, and Selfridges Pick & Mix mochi bar, £15. They do say the way to my own heart is through my stomach, so when it comes to self-love, dessert is king. Enjoy a plethora of Little Moons flavours with this delicious gift box.
There seems to have been a shift of late and more people are having open conversations around women’s health and what exactly that means. I am of the generation where talking about periods was ‘gross’, buying tampons along with that night’s dinner offering was awkward, especially if you were doing the shopping with your new beau. Thinking back to the day my period started I remember embarrassment and hushed voices as my mother whispered through the portaloo door – only I could get my first period at Pony Club whilst wearing white jodhpurs – “make sure the pad is in the right place, god knows we don’t want a leak”.
We have come along way since then but there is still not enough being done to educate both girls and women as to how their cycle really works. Too few of us know how our cycle can work for us, not to mention the hormonal contraception we are all put on quicker than you can say “but what about condoms” from a young age and then wonder why there are so many issues with mood, libido and even fertility further down the line.
In my early thirties I started to become a lot more aware of my body both mentally and physically and realised I had been on contraception without a break for 17 years, and never thought to question it. Despite living with M.E. and depression no conversation was ever had to see if there was any correlation. I am not saying there definitively is, but maybe it would have been good to explore whether the pill was affecting my mood rather than just whack me on some antidepressants and be done with it.
I decided enough was enough and had my implant removed so I could at least see what it felt like to have a natural cycle. It took a while for my body to get used to the natural way of life but once it did, the changes were incredible. More energy, being able to feel the highs and lows of progesterone and estrogen spikes rather than a base level plateau of ‘meh’, better skin and weight loss. Sounds great huh? But the one thing that wasn’t so fun was the rage. This sounds dramatic but believe me it was like clockwork, five days before my period I became a she devil, screaming at my long-suffering partner, hating everything and everyone. I could tell this was to do with a hormonal surge but I wanted to gain a better understanding of what was happening and if there was anything I could do to help it. Enter Menstrual Cycle Coach, Carly Procter of Nourish and Flo. We worked together over a six week period (no pun intended) to really help me understand my cycle and how to work with it, rather than against it. Each weekly session centered around a different topic including nutrition, exercise, working methods eg, when to plan meetings, pitch work, admin; and as we uncovered more and more it all started to make sense – of course I’m absolutely knackered on this day, my body is trying to gear me up for menstruation and here I am asking it to get to the gym, pitch to a new client, make a three course meal and write a column. Menstrual Cycle Coaching is not about reinventing the wheel it is about learning how your body works and small changes that can be made to increase productivity, to rejoice in rest and to honour the absolute miracle us women go through monthly.
I took some time to talk to Carly further to get an understanding of what she hopes to help women achieve moving forward.
Before we dive in, could you give me a bit of background as to how you came to be here? Have you always worked in coaching / women’s health?
I have always been interested in health and well-being but had no idea what I wanted to do as a career. While I was figuring it out I trained as a beauty therapist in Brighton and then moved up to London and found work in a Kensington spa. I then decided I wanted a career as a nurse. After 3 years of training I really wanted to go into women’s health in some way. Things didn’t work out that way, and ended up working in the busiest ICU in London. I still had this itch to coach people, particularly women, and guide them to better health and well-being so I went part time in my nursing job and trained as a Nutritional Therapist. I specialised in women’s health, teaching women how to find the root cause of their health issues, eat better, and live a more fulfilling and healthy life. As time went by I wanted to go a little deeper and I started geeking out on all things menstrual cycles and periods. I am now a certified Menstrual Cycle Coach, teaching women how to work with their hormonal ebbs and flows, and not against them, to achieve better health and smoother periods.
And what was it that made you want to make the transition from nursing and nutrition to focusing more on women’s health?
The more I learnt, the more passionate I became. After my own experience of coming off hormonal contraception, I realised how little I knew about my own body. The more conversations I had with other women, the more I realised how little they also knew about their own physiology. Through no fault of their own, most didn’t know the basics of how their menstrual cycle worked. It is something that is only briefly touched on at school and then barely spoken of again, yet it is the very foundation of womanhood. For too long women have been done a disservice when it comes to their bodies and their health and I feel so passionate to be a part of what I see as a revolutionary time for women reclaiming themselves.
As a woman, and this is something we touched on during our coaching sessions, I feel there is still a lot of shame around discussing periods and it is all a bit taboo (even though the year is 2022) why do you think this is and what ramifications do you think that has had on women in general?
Unfortunately, we have been socially programmed for years to see periods as unpleasant, painful and disgusting. If that is all you hear then that is what you’ll believe, even if it’s untrue. It was a subject that even our own mothers or grandmothers wouldn’t talk about. It means women feel embarrassed to talk about it to the point that even buying sanitary products is a shameful experience for many. If you are reading this and feel this way, ask yourself this: why are we embarrassed about something that is so natural and the very reason we are all on this planet? How can something so incredible be seen as anything other than beautiful? Your menstrual cycle should be celebrated and not something to feel shame about!
When you began your journey into this subject, what did you find the most interesting or surprising aspect?
The game changer was learning the power of cyclical living. Cyclical living is about learning to adapt your life according to the phases of your menstrual cycle. Each phase has a hormone shift which enables menstruators to experience variety in their cycle. We are taught that the ups and downs of hormones are a negative thing. Where actually, if you learn how to listen to your body and adapt your life accordingly, you can use these ebbs and flows to your advantage.
We have spoken a lot about how we think girls should be educated about their periods and everything that surrounds them – if you could go back and talk to pre pubescent Carly, what would you say and do you have any suggestions / advice on how mothers can support their daughters through the transition?
The most valuable thing you can offer someone starting, or about to start their period is your unwavering support and an open ear. Whether it’s a daughter, a niece, or a friend’s daughter, let them know they can talk to you or come to you with any questions. Secondly, a girl’s very first period should be celebrated! This could be something simple like a girly day out, or a gift box of goodies filled with things like period products, nail polish, bubble bath and their favourite snack. Whatever you do, make it a special occasion to make their experience as positive as possible.
Can you give me a snapshot of how to celebrate your cycle to show how we should be using our femininity as a reason to celebrate rather than hide away?
Let’s use day one of your period as an example. Your reproductive hormones are lower in this phase, which means your energy might be less, you might have an increased appetite and you might feel a little groggy. Check in with yourself and listen to what your body is telling you. How do you feel? What feels natural and instinctive to you?
You want to focus on being as nurturing and nourishing to your body as possible. This might be allowing yourself a little extra time in bed in the morning. It might be putting on your favourite comfy clothes or lounge wear. It might be turning your phone to aeroplane mode while you sit mindfully with a warm cup of tea and a nourishing bowl of porridge. It might be running yourself a bubble bath and treating yourself to your favourite chocolate (yes, at the same time!). Your period is also the time of high intuition, so you may enjoy reflecting on the past month and journaling your thoughts and feelings. This phase is all about you and celebrating the arrival of your period with indulgence and down time.
After menstruation we move into the follicular phase, our hormones are starting to rise – this is the perfect time for earlier mornings, girly dates with friends or just treating yourself to something feminine such as flowers.
Once we move into ovulation everything is at a high – oestrogen is giving us all the good vibes and great energy. This is the perfect time to hit PB’s at the gym, putting your favourite outfit on and going dancing, flirty dates with your partner and nourishing yourself with fresh, colourful foods. Think of this time as summer solstice and that feeling of letting loose and dancing in the fields – that’s what this is about.
The fourth phase is the luteal phase, things are slowing back down ready for menstruation. We start to retreat and hibernate. I like to do things like hunker down and read my favourite book, say no to things, put boundaries in place. This is the time for boujee candles, nights in, getting cosy and preparing ourselves for the next stage.
If women can work in restructuring their cycles in this way and even look forward to each phase and what it represents, the results will be amazing.
If you had five minutes to educate our male counterparts – I know, it’s not much – what message would you drive home to try and get them to think about women’s health a little differently?
That their support is crucial for us to be the very best version of ourselves we can be. Men and women have very different hormone cycles. Women’s are a lot more complex, with several transitions throughout our lives. Therefore, all we ask is for your patience and understanding. Encouraging your female partners, family and friends by letting them know you are open to conversations around their hormones and menstrual cycle really is the most incredible thing you can offer a woman.
Do you think it is possible to restructure your life in a way that works in harmony with your cycle?
Absolutely! For too long many women have lived their lives fighting against their biology. Let’s start using what we have, by listening to our bodies, paying attention to our hormones and learning the art of cyclical living to enhance your health and well-being.
What do you hope to achieve as a coach when working with your clients?
I teach women how to tune into themselves to become more intuitive with their bodies to give them back control of their health and well-being. My clients learn how to eat, move, handle stress, manage their lives and celebrate their menstrual cycles for more ease and flow in their lives.
What is next for Nourish and Flo?
I am just so proud to be a part of a menstrual revolution that is happening right now! My focus is on working with amazing women and menstruators to inspire them to own their hormones and to embrace their menstrual cycles. I want to drive the message home that women don’t need to be suffering with problematic periods. It is completely possible and within your reach to have enjoyable menstrual cycles and I’m excited to teach you how!
To find out more about what Carly has to offer visit her IG here or drop her an email carly@nourishandflo.com
It can be difficult to know what to wear for an event. Should you dress up? What about the color, length, style, etc.? What does smart casual even mean? Check out these tips on How To Choose The Right Outfit for your event.
1) What Sort Of Event Is It?
Depending on what the event is, you will have to dress accordingly. If it’s a cocktail party, you should wear something more casual than if it were an awards ceremony or wedding. You should also be mindful of your footwear. High heels are usually not advised for outdoor events in case the weather takes a turn for the worse! When it comes to dresses, cocktail dresses are perfect for weddings, unless specified otherwise. Always remember to go for what makes you feel comfortable.
2) The Dress Code
Always pay attention to the dress code. If you’re not sure what the dress code is, take a look online or even call the event planner to ask. They will be more than happy to help you out. If there is no dress code, go with whatever outfit you feel comfortable wearing. However, If there is no dress code, go with whatever outfit you feel comfortable wearing. We spoke with formal dress specialists Sherri Hill who advised the following: if there is a dress code, check your invite or read up on any other details about the event so that you know whether a formal dress is required or if you can choose a smart casual look.
3) The Different Dress Codes
There are many different dress codes including, but not limited to:
Formal, smart casual, semi-formal, cocktail dress, business formal, casual. Let’s take a closer look at what each generally requires.
3.1) Formal
If it’s a formal event, you’ll need to dress up. This means a suit or dress for women. the colors and style of your outfit should be classic and elegant. You don’t want to wear something too trendy or flashy, as it may not be appropriate for the occasion.
For men, a dark suit is always a safe choice. A white shirt and black tie are also standard formalwear options. For women, a little black dress is always a good option, or you could choose a dress in a more subdued color like navy or olive green. Avoid bright colors and loud patterns. When it comes to shoes, men should wear dress shoes, while women can wear pumps, flats, or sandals ( with straps or ankle ties, not metal or plastic).
3.2) Smart Casual
At a smart casual event, it’s best to dress up a little bit from what you would normally wear. This could mean wearing a dress shirt and tie for men, or a blouse and skirt/trouser combo for women. Smart casual is usually more relaxed than formal attire, but it’s still important to look polished and put-together.
3.3) Semi-Formal
Semi-formal events are a bit less formal than formal events but not as relaxed as smart casual. For men, this could mean wearing a suit with no tie, or even a sports coat. A dress shirt and trousers are also an option. For women, semi-formal attire usually means wearing a dress or pantsuit. skirts and dresses should be knee-length or longer, and you should avoid very flashy or revealing outfits.
3.4) Cocktail Dress
A cocktail dress is perfect for a more formal wedding, but it can also be worn to other semi-formal events. For women, a cocktail dress should be knee-length or shorter and have straps or be sleeveless. It’s also important to avoid too much skin exposure. You don’t want to wear something that’s too sexy or revealing. When it comes to color, stick to darker shades like navy, black, and purple.
3.5) Business Formal
If you’re attending a business formal event, men should wear a suit with a tie while women should wear a pantsuit or skirt and blouse combo. For shoes, choose classic styles in dark colors. Men should also wear dress shoes while women can get away with sleek pumps or loafers.
3.6) Casual
As you might have guessed, casual events are by far the easiest to dress for! This means you can wear pretty much whatever you’d like at this type of event, whether it’s jeans and a T-shirt or leggings and an oversized sweater. There aren’t any rules when it comes to dressing for casual events, so just wear something that makes you feel comfortable.
4) The Weather Factor
When it comes to picking out an outfit for a formal event, consider the weather as well. If there’s a chance of rain or snow, it’s a good idea to choose a weather-appropriate outfit. This means a heavier coat or leather jacket for men and women, and shoes that won’t get ruined if they get wet.
5) Accessories
When putting together your outfit for a formal event, don’t forget about accessories. A nice watch, belt, or scarf can add a touch of polish and sophistication to any look. Just make sure that your accessories are also in keeping with the dress code for the event. Keep it classy and simple. If you don’t know how to accessorize, look to sites like Pinterest for inspiration.
6) Comfort
One of the most important things to remember when choosing an outfit for a formal event is that you should be comfortable in it. You’ll likely be spending a lot of time in this outfit, so you don’t want something that’s too tight or restrictive. Make sure you have plenty of time to try on different outfits and find the one that’s just right. You should also bring a backup outfit with you so that you have something else to wear if your first choice isn’t working out.
Source https://unsplash.com/photos/ZDN-G1xBWHY
Choosing the right outfit for a formal event can be tricky. You want to make sure that you’re dressed appropriately but also comfortable (and warm if it’s cold). The weather is often something to keep in mind when choosing your clothes, as well as whether or not you’ll need accessories like scarves and belts. As long as you consider these factors, picking out an appropriate outfit should be easy!
