If you could live in any kind of house what would it look like? I ask myself this from time to time, the truth is I like so many different styles of architecture and I feel different buildings suit different landscapes. So, for me, it would really depend on where in the world I was living. If it was Australia then it would have to be a building that was modern and minimal.
If I didn’t already know that House A by Walter&Walter was situated in Melbourne there’s something about the architecture that definitely suggests it. Perhaps it’s the rough sawn timber cladding, maybe it’s the single story build or the minimal box-like structure. Modern Australian architecture has certainly embraced minimalism.
Inside House A there’s a strong Japanese influence to the design. There’s the use of large glass window panes at the back of the property that bring the outside in and flood the building with light. There’s also the enclosed garden a popular feature in many Japanese homes and the bold use of beautiful timber throughout. The staircase is a masterpiece with its graphic lines and tonal mix of wood. The whole property is a homage to this versatile material. Even though it might appear quite an open house it is actually quite private, the front is predominantly timber clad, except for the entrance, and the back is largely glass windows and doors leading onto the garden.
House A was designed by award-winning architect Andrew Walter, the firm received an award for the architecture in the 2017 Victorian Architecture Awards for Residential Architecture.
If you’re looking for a simple seasonal update why not try a change of fragrance. With Spring only a month away I’ve selected a few fresh Spring fragrances for you to try. I prefer fresh scents over strong ouds or sweet fruity fragrances anyway, as they feel cleaner and less overwhelming to me, and to others. I see fragrance as an extension of style, people react not just to how you look but how you smell, too, good or bad. My signature scent is a woody clean amber, it’s slightly warm, unisex and always gets a good reaction but it’s more suited to the the colder months of the year.
This time of year is usually about fresh starts, flowers and plants start to regrow, we begin to switch our homes for warm, cosy hideaways to fresh and bright spaces, and we start to shed the heavier warmer layers in our wardrobe. It’s the perfect time to swap your winter fragrance for something fresher.
Atkinsons Posh On The Green*
Inspired by the British love of a manicured lawn, this scent takes its inspiration from traditional garden parties, polo matches in the summer sun, a day spent watching the cricket and Wimbledon’s manicured grass courts. There’s even a touch of gin and tonic about it. It’s a clean blend, suitable for both men and women, with top notes of coriander and petit grain, middle notes of galbanum and geranium, and base notes of vetiver and cedarwood.
MALIN + GOETZ Cannabis*
Don’t jump to conclusions too quickly with this one, this is not going to make you smell like a naughty teenager. As with all their fragrances it’s fresh and lively; with top notes of bergamot and black pepper, middle notes of magnolia, and base notes of cedarwood, patchouli and sandalwood. If you prefer something a touch more masculine, this is a great one for you.
Roger & Gallet Thé Fantaisie*
This is a much more complex fragrance with many different notes yet it remains delicate. Alberto Morillas combined top notes of pine tree, lemon, mandarin, orange, geranium, and coriander; middle notes of nutmeg, palmarosa, clary sage, pink pepper and black tea; and base notes of benzoin resinoid, sandalwood and vetiver. It’s another unisex fragrance but I would say it’s more rich than the others and leans towards the feminine.
If you want some fresh style inspiration for Spring look no further than the Céline Resort 2018 collection, it will definitely have you sorted. It has everything from pretty slips in soft silk and eyelash lace, to slick black suits with lapel-less blazers that tie at the waist, there’s even a voluminous trench coat for good measure. The neutral palette will slide nicely into most wardrobes; blues, blushes, nudes, beige and classic black are all hard working essential foundation colours that suit most skin tones. The cuts are soft, floaty and feminine without loosing touch with Céline’s DNA of strong classic design. The collection is practical and wearable, appealing to many in a way so many fashion brands are unable to. The accessories remain simple but bold, such as organic shaped gold hoops as well as more classic hoop styles, simple bangles, silk scarves and tote bags.
As Hedi Slimane takes over the reins from Phoebe Philo, as new artistic director, it’s hard to imagine the iconic brand she has made it into in someone else’s hands. Slimane has certainly left his mark on Saint Laurent, what will he do with Céline?
Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Sunspel Stripe T-Shirt* | A.P.C. Half-Moon Bag in Black | Loewe Leather Espadrilles
You must visit Seville. Old or young, rich or poor this is a city with something for everyone. We visited in early November, a little bit risky as the temperature is a unpredictable then but (as you can see from my photos) we were lucky, with warm weather. Had we been there a week earlier (the last week of September) we would have been hit with temperatures in the low 30s, unbelievable for September. If you’re looking for a late summer city break I think Seville is perfect.
I imagine that mid-summer is pretty busy in Seville, in November there were queues for all the big tourist spots but it was pleasant walking around the city, and we were able to get a table when we wanted, wherever we wanted. We were told that Seville has the largest ‘old town’ in Europe which is probably what makes it such a wonderful place to stroll around, it really is a beautiful city.
I arrived with a list as long as my arm of places to see and eat but this is a city best enjoyed when you go with the flow, trust me you won’t go wrong. We saw a lot of the famous sites as we wandered around, with the unexpected weather and incredible architecture, it was too lovely outside to hideaway inside. The Catedral is magnificent and huge (one of the largest Christian churches in Europe), we walked around it and then headed to the gardens of the Royal Alcázar, walking down narrow alleyways and through pretty courtyards on our way.
There are so many great places to eat and such good food in Seville. If you’re a foodie it’s worth spending the day wondering from one tapas restaurant to another, sharing a plate or two and a glass of local wine in each. It’s impossible to visit them all in a weekend but worth giving it a go. We had some help from Gerry from Pure Andalusia, an English ex-pat that has lived in the area for over a decade and is very knowledgable. She organises some amazing food tours throughout the region so if you’re looking for an expert look no further.
There is still so much for me to explore in Seville and I will definitely be returning before long. Here’s a list of my favourites from this trip.
Seville City Guide
ARTS & CULTURE
Catedral de Sevilla It’s hard to miss this remarkable cathedral in the centre of Seville. Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Royal Alcázar A stunning Moorish palace, surrounded by lush gardens. Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
SHOPPING
Rue 8 Stop in here for a jewellery. Pl. de S. Francisco, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Castañer The most famous espadrilles to come out of Spain. Calle Sierpes, 38, 41001 Sevilla, Spain
Sombreros Maquedano A small shop selling beautifully made traditional Spanish hats. Calle Sierpes, 40, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
CAFÉS, BARS & RESTAURANTS
Mamarracha An easy, laid-back place to enjoy a few plates of tapas. Calle Hernando Colón, 1-3, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
No-Lugar Great food in an amazing space with beautiful artwork that you can buy. Calle Trajano, 16, 41002 Sevilla, Spain
Bolas The most amazing ice cream, an essential stop on a warm evening stroll. Cuesta del Rosario, 1, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
La Azotea Some of the best tapas we had in Seville, and great wine too! Calle Jesús del Gran Poder, 31, 41002 Sevilla, Spain
Mariatrifulca Delicious food with an amazing view over the river and Puente de Triana. Puente de Triana, esquina Plaza del Altozano, 41010 Sevilla, Spain
STAY
Corral del Rey A luxury hotel, beautifully designed with a homely feel. Calle Corral del Rey 12, 41004 Sevilla
Hotel Palacio de Villapanés An elegantly restored palace that’s now a hotel. Calle Santiago, 31, 41003 Sevilla
Gifts can seem a bit frivolous to me at times, with so many I’ve received having been redistributed (to put it politely). They rarely hit the mark and I hate to think of people wasting their money on me or anyone else. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner (as well as many a birthday and thank you opportunity) I have found something a little bit special that will put a smile on any minimalist home lover’s lips, well actually anyone that appreciates well-made little luxuries.
If you’ve ever struggled with finding the perfect gift for someone, I’m going to let you in on a little secret, One&Twenty. They are a London-based gift box company that carefully curate the most beautifully presented gift boxes. All the brands they work with have been selected for the quality and design of their products. There are no fillers, everything is desirable from both a functional and a visual perspective.
Chloe, One&Twenty’s founder, sent me The One ‘FOR HOME’ Gift Box*, a wonderful collection of small items for the home that will brighten anyone’s day. It includes two lovely natural linen napkins and two small hand-thrown ceramic cups by Sue Ure, a British ceramist that now resides in the South of France. They’re perfect for sipping your morning espresso from or a green tea later in the day. And speaking of tea, there’s a packet of my all-time favourite tea, Créme Earl Grey by London Tea Club (now closed). I promise you that if you’re an Earl Grey fan (or just a tea fan) you won’t have tasted one like this one, it’s delicious! Be aware that a little goes a long way. There’s also a pot of ‘Moon’ pot pourri from Evermore London. This was the one item in the box I wasn’t 100% sure about receiving; I grew up in an era when everyone had pot pourri in their homes and they were usually potent, unnatural smelling and brightly coloured. I can assure you that this is something else entirely. It’s full of the scents of a British garden in summer, there’s lavender, rose and sage, all sourced from UK farms. Last but by no means least, there is an organic coconut oil soap from Sevin London. You can choose from three different soap/scrub options, I received ‘White Porcelain’ a pretty soap bar scented with amber and white jasmine.
I loved opening this gift box. Who wouldn’t appreciate opening something so beautifully wrapped? When someone goes to the trouble of making a gift look this nice, you know they’ve put as much thought into the contents. I would highly recommend One&Twenty’s gift boxes if you’re looking for something special and original. There are currently four large boxes and three little ones, starting from £45.
As a teenager I was one of the lucky ones, with barely a spot on my face. Fast-forward to my 30s and it’s been a different story so far. As soon as I stopped taking the pill, just over a year ago, my skin flared up. Initially it was a couple of spots, they would start to clear and then (frustratingly) a couple more would appear. The sudden change in my hormones definitely had a significant affect. I’m sure the pill has covered up many issues that would have otherwise been apparent on my skin. On top of that I’ve struggled with problems with my digestive system for years, thanks to a particularly horrid batch of antibiotics I was prescribed in my early 20s. Anything that’s going wrong in your digestion system will usually show in your skin. Treating these conditions is the most important way for me to deal with my spots but here are some of the best spot treatments that work for me.
A moisturising mask might not seem like an obvious choice when dealing with spots but bear with me. The skin is in trauma whilst dealing with spots, and needs something calming and soothing. This is not a heavy mask and, thanks to the honey it contains, is great for soothing and healing the skin. Use once a week on a Sunday morning after cleansing or use it last thing before you go to bed instead of a night cream.
Another effective mask, this one gives your skin a thorough cleanse without stressing it further. The AHA fruit acids help remove dead skin cells whilst the kaolin clay draws out impurities without leaving your skin dry or tight. Use it once a week for up to 10 minutes, removing it gently with warm water and the muslin cloth that comes with it.
When you have spots and blackheads you still need to exfoliate your skin regularly, to remove dead skin cells that contribute to blocked pores. This is one of the gentlest exfoliators I’ve ever used whilst still being effective. It’s a physical exfoliant (rather than chemical) that uses finely milled rice powder to lightly exfoliate whilst the charcoal powder it contains has an anti-bacterial effect. I use this every day or every other day. Dermalogica say you can use it twice a day but I don’t think that’s necessary and possibly a little excessive if you have sensitive skin.
This is, without question, the secret weapon in my spot fighting arsenal! Whatever you’ve read, spots do not disappear overnight but with this little pot you can certainly speed up the process. It has an unusual texture, somewhere between a clay and a gel, combining montmorillonite clay, kaolin clay and salicylic acid. I apply it to my spots with a cotton bud in the evening, after cleansing. I look as though I have Shrek-like spots on my face for the 10 minutes it takes to dry. I then remove it with warm water. And that’s it.
I usually stick to cream cleansers but this cleansing bar was recommended to me and I can’t resist a good recommendation. The main active ingredient is Dead Sea mud which reputedly contains 26 minerals that deeply detoxify, exfoliate and hydrate the skin. You can use it on its own or in combination with their Detoxifying Cleansing Oil*. I’d recommend using both when you’re taking off your make-up.
I’m still working on plans for my home office, which is more likely going to be a home office corner rather than a whole room but I’m happy with that. I’ve been looking at some of my favourite interior design brands and have come up with this wish list of products for my perfect Scandinavian home office. You can see the inspiration for these pieces here in this post which I shared a couple of weeks ago. My idea is to create a space with just enough storage to keep things neat and tidy but not so much that it will encourage me to keep more than I need. I’d like it to feel clean and calm so I can stay focused, as I’m easily distracted by clutter and always feel the need to clear things away before I can begin on a piece of work.
1. Another Country Loch Assynt Print by Tom Shaw | 2. Melo Orb in Ash | 3. MENU Conic Table Lamp | 4. Flowerbx Small Apothecary Vase | 5. String Furniture Pocket Shelving in Ash | 6. HAY Laptop Brush | 7. Skagerak Georg Desk in Oak | 8. HAY About A Chair AAC 22 in Black Stained Oak Veneer | 10. HAY Small Glass Bottle | 11. HAY Dot Low Glass Set (2) | 12. ferm Living Square Magazine Holder
I always like to have artwork around me and this print I’ve selected by Tom Shaw has this beautiful light and earthy moodiness, it’s the sort of photograph I can escape into in moments of chaos. I also like to have flowers or foliage on my desk, it’s another way to bring nature inside and has a calming effect on me. I recently discovered Flowerbx in London, they have a really nice selection of flowers and foliage (including eucalyptus) that can be delivered to your door.
Comfort is majorly important to me and is the reason I selected this particular chair by HAY. I’ve been testing out my favourite designs whenever I’ve had the opportunity over the last few months and this one came out on top for me. I haven’t managed to find it online but it is available in COS’s Kensington High Street store (sorry if you’re not based in London, it may be worth contacting HAY to find your local stockist).
I’ve been obsessed with this Skagerak desk for ages and ages! It’s called the Georg, named after designer Chris Liljenberg Halstrøm’s son. There are more pieces in the Georg series, all equally as beautiful in design, with a softness to each of them, thanks to their smooth rounded edges. The desk is a fairly standard size but if you’re looking for something slightly smaller, the Console Table is a little narrower and shallower.
I’ve never been one to think too far ahead. When someone asks me where I see myself in 5 years or 10 years my answer is usually quite predictable with no real specific goals except to be settled and happy. In some ways this is good because I tend to live in the present moment. In other ways it’s not so great because it’s important to feel you have achieved something and to know that you can achieve things if you put your mind to them.
I thought I’d try something new this year and set some New Year intentions. Intentions are more gentle than resolutions, I’ve never really stuck with resolutions and often forget about them as soon as January is over. A resolution can leave you feeling disappointed with yourself if you’re unable to complete them in the time you have allocated whereas an intention is more encouraging, something to continue to aim for this year, and next.
Six New Year Intentions
Follow My Own Path
It’s so easy to look at and take direction from others who have gone before us but to be true to myself, and get the most out of life, I think it’s important to follow my own path.
Be Mindful of What I Absorb
With so much information coming from every direction I think it’s important to learn to filter what’s useful and inspiring from what’s not. I plan to spend time reading more of the magazines I find inspiring, to limit my time online to sites and blogs that enrich my perspective, and to continue to surround myself with kind, interesting people, I respect.
Slow Down
I tend to squeeze a lot into each day, rarely giving myself the time to enjoy the moment or appreciate what I have achieved. I think it’s better to do less but do it well.
Continue To Learn
If there’s one thing that drives me it’s the desire to keep learning, whether that’s in photography, cooking, designing or styling.
Spend More Time Outside
There’s something so refreshing about a walk in the park or countryside, switching off from everything apart from what’s in front of me. It really helps to clear my mind and I don’t do it enough.
Go With The Flow
I need to learn to let go a little and appreciate the incidental things that happen, rather than worrying about what I think I should be doing.
Just like non-organic t-shirts, organic cotton t-shirts vary widely in how they feel, their shape and the density of the fabric. I’ve been buying organic cotton t-shirts for a little while now (switching over when I discovered how much better they are for the environment and the people that farm the cotton; not to mention, the quality). I thought I’d share some of the best I’ve found.
The White T-Shirt Co.
The White T-Shirt Co. focus solely on making perfect t-shirts and they’ve been doing it since 2004. They work with The Green Cotton Group, a Danish textile manufacturer that produce organic cotton using the most sustainable methods. The White T-Shirt Co. produce incredibly soft t-shirts that don’t lose their softness after washing. Their long-sleeve t-shirts are made with a fairly dense jersey whereas their short-sleeve t-shirts are much thinner, good for layering in the winter or on their own in warmer months. I recommend their Fitted Long Sleeve Round Neck T-Shirt and Relaxed Short Sleeve Round Neck T-Shirt (I go up a size in both for a looser fit).
ARKET
New kid on the block, ARKET are part of the immense H&M group. Their raison d’être is to create quality products that are accessible to all, that will last, an ‘archive’ of wardrobe essentials. Only a few of their products are currently made with organic cotton, mostly t-shirts and vests and the odd pair of jeans but they do also use recycled cashmere in some of their jumpers (I have one and it’s so nice). I have a couple of their Organic Cotton T-Shirts in black and blush (which they refer to as orange). It’s a classic crew neck style that hangs beautifully and has a flattering longer cut short sleeve. They’re very lightweight with a slightly coarse texture. They have stayed exactly the same wash after wash.
Organic Basics
If you’re looking for a classic crew-neck t-shirt look no further than Organic Basics. They’re a Danish brand that specialise in basics, such as t-shirts and underwear, all made from Turkish organic cotton. They are constantly pushing for a higher level of sustainability, environmentally as well as socio-economically. Their t-shirts fall somewhere in-between the other two brands, they are lightweight with a soft texture. They’re straight cut and hang really nicely. I have their Organic Cotton Stretch Tee in white and black, both of which I’ve worn quite a bit. They seem to get a bit looser and softer the more you wash them.
This post was created in collaboration with Corral del Rey.
Tucked away in Seville’s old Barrio Alfalfa quarter is the Calle Corral del Rey, a small cobbled street where the buildings almost touch. Split between two buildings (on either side of the street) is the Corral del Rey boutique hotel. From the street there’s little to give it away, just a large wooden door and a small sign in the wall. Once inside, it feels intimate and you feel protected by the building. Seville is by no means chaotic but there’s something uniquely relaxing and private about this restored 17th century casa palacio. With just 17 rooms it’s not a noisy, bustling hotel and, at times, we felt as though we had the place to ourselves.
We stayed in a room on the top floor and although not huge (it wasn’t easy squeezing in our two large suitcases), it was beautifully designed. There’s a homely style throughout the building that brings together comfort and luxury in equal measures. Our room had a small Juliet balcony that allowed us to look onto the Calle Corral del Rey below. Our bathroom was almost the same size as our bedroom, with stunning limestone used throughout.
The staff at the hotel are discreet but quick to respond to any request, and the room service is exceptional. One evening we chose to have a chilled night in, ordered food from room service and watched movies on Netflix. I ordered the pumpkin soup, cheese and ham croquetas, and an avocado and mozzarella salad. It arrived hot and was incredibly delicious. Breakfast at the hotel was equally delicious, with tasty eggs and acorn-fed ham, fresh fruit, breads, jams and croissants.
The hotel is located close to the Cathedral and a short walk from some incredible tapas bars, so it’s perfectly located for exploring the city. On the roof there is a little oasis; tables and chairs, sun-beds, plunge pool and an honesty bar to escape to when your feet are too to walk any more. There’s also a lovely lounge to relax in, across the street in the other building.
I’ve been dreaming of a proper home office for months. I usually work from our dining table or curled up on the sofa with my laptop. Both are perfectly fine but it would be really nice to have a dedicated space. I’d love one spot to keep everything instead of spreading out across various rooms in the house. I also want somewhere that I feel mentally set to work. Having a dedicated space would help me to stay focused, it would stop me from trying to multi-task in the house throughout the day (I’m always putting on the washing and tidying up). I’ve also read that it will help me see my work as a business rather than a hobby. And a decent office chair might also save my back and all those chiropractor bills.
I love clean Scandinavian design and it seems particularly appropriate for a workspace. In order to maintain the minimal look it needs to be well organised, perfect for a productive working environment. I find a light, bright space motivating, it helps me to stay awake and focused. A tidy space also helps avoid too many distractions, I find there are enough already with all the emails I receive and the tabs I have open (I do tend to close my Mail and use OneTab to minimise the number of open tabs, in an attempt to reduce the distractions when I’m working on a post or project).
Skagerak, HAY and Melo make great office furniture and accessories. I’ll be sharing my perfect home office pieces in a couple of weeks.
I use Pinterest to create mood boards for each of the rooms in my house, for further home office inspiration please take a look at my Working From Home board.
At this time of year it’s very important to keep your skin really well nourished. Cold air, hot air and the constant change between the two can leave skin confused and a little traumatised. These are some of the nourishing skincare products I’ve been using in my skincare regimen this season, to keep mine in check.
Immunocologie Body Serum*
I’m obsessed with this moisturising dry oil from Immunocologie. It’s a lightweight oil that vanishes into my skin in less than a minute, so no waiting around to get dressed. The oil is absorbed quickly thanks to Immunocolgie’s Vital Oligo Science, a natural skincare delivery system. It’s fairly mess-free as the spray nozzle makes it easy to apply, and it also smells divine. After using it my skin feels well moisturised but not at all greasy.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% +B5
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the skin and it is there to aide in the production of collagen. It also helps skin retain moisture when the molecules are small enough to be absorbed deeply. The Ordinary‘s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 contains “low, medium and high-molecular weight hyaluronic acid, as well as a next-generation hyaluronic acid crosspolymer at a combined concentration of 2% for multi-depth hydration”. If the molecules are too large and sit on the surface of the skin all they do is draw moisture out of the skin so that just the surface is plumped.
Pai Skincare Instant Calm Redness Serum*
I seem to get through a bottle of this lovely calming serum from Pai (the sensitive skincare specialists) each month. It’s a light fluid that’s easily absorbed, perfect for use under your daily moisturiser or face oil. It contains Sea Aster which “inhibits the release of cutaneous neuropeptides, the molecules that cause skin to flare, while strengthening the surface skin, helping to reduce the appearance of redness; as well as Wild Oat which is famed for its ability to soothe reactive skin, enriched Wild Oat extract works to improve the appearance of delicate or damaged skin and helps to protect skin against environmental irritants”.
Immunocologie Super 7 Elixir Face Serum*
Another really great serum, it’s one which I prefer to use at night as it’s a little thicker and I like to allow it to settle into the skin before applying my night time moisturiser. It’s super nourishing thanks to a few key ingredients. The first of which you might find a little squeamish, Snail Secretion Filtrate. The Korean’s have been using it for ages and have some of the most advanced skincare in the world. It contains lots of good things like hyaluronic acid and antimicrobial peptides, great for both nourishing and repairing the skin. Anther key ingredient, Hibiscus Esculentus Fruit Extract (AKA Okra Extract) has been known to be used in Ayurvedic medicine thanks to its antibacterial properties which help the skin to heal. And, the essential fatty acids and anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties found in Desert Date (Balanites Roxburghii) Seed Oil soften and repair dry and damaged skin.
Pai Skincare Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser*
If you’re looking for a gentle but effective cleanser, look no further. When your skin is feeling a bit sensitive from the elements the last thing you should do is use something aggressive on it. It’s already on high alert and this would only cause more distress. Instead reach for something soothing and gentle. Pai have developed the perfect cleanser, it’s a cream cleanser that you gently massage into the face and then wash off using their Dual-Effect Sensitive Skin Cloth (which comes with the cleanser). It contains Camellia Oil which has both Omega 9 fatty acids and Vitamin E to nourish the skin, as well as Damask Otto Rose Oil which helps skin retain moisture.
Immunocologie Night Protection*
This is the first dedicated night cream I’ve used in a quite a while. I’d forgotten why it’s important to have a separate moisturiser for day and night. Skincare brands don’t make both so that they can sell you twice as many products but because each offers different properties that are more affective at different times of the day. Immunocologie’s Night Protection works to hydrate and help repair skin overnight. It uses Desert Date (Balanites Roxburghii) Seed Oil just like the Super 7 Elixir Face Serum to soften and repair. Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil which is rich in anti-oxidants and Vitamin C helps defend against free-radicals which age the skin. And, Protium Heptaphyllun Resin is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Cloe Cassandro Kimi Wrap Mini Dress* | Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Converse Chuck Taylors in Black | Ace & Tate Vivian Sunglasses in Matte Black* | A Weathered Penny Gold Wire Circle Hoops* | Merci Maman Large Hammered 10th Anniversary Necklace in Gold* | Merci Maman The Merci Maman Necklace*
This year, I’ve finally embraced the dress (more specifically, the wrap dress) and I’m not alone, if Instagram is anything to go by. It’s more than likely that you’ve already discovered both Réalisation Par and Reformation but there’s another brand I’ve been wearing that’s a little more under the radar, Cloe Cassandro.
Cloe Cassandro make beautiful silk-chiffon dresses (as well as other resort wear, including swimwear). They work with local artisans in Bali where everything is handmade, hand dyed and hand printed using traditional Balinese batik printing techniques. They describe themselves as an ‘ethical luxury beachwear brand’ that aim ‘to create simple, classic pieces’ that ‘are produced ethically and to the highest standard’. Basically, all good things I love to hear.
I took the Kimi dress out to Seville and, with the weather being unseasonably mild, it was ideal with a biker thrown over the top and a pair on Converse. It’s quite sheer but it comes with a slip dress you can wear underneath when you need to be more modest. Otherwise, it’s the perfect cover-up by the pool or at the beach.
The Haçienda de San Rafael, just outside Seville, is (without question) my favourite of all the hotels I’ve stayed in this year. The property is surrounded by olive groves and fields that are full of cotton plants in the summer. The sandy lane that leads from the main road up to the hotel gives little away. The trees divide, opening up to reveal the haçienda, a stunning old white building that surrounds a pretty cobbled courtyard. An old well draws your eye in the centre and around the outside established pink and yellow bougainvillea. Each of the rooms is accessed from the courtyard and there’s a small dining area in front of each where you can sit and enjoy breakfast or lunch. It’s impossible not to enjoy either (or dinner for that matter); food here feels both indulgent and healthy. The Galician style octopus with potato that I had for lunch the day we arrived was tender and full of flavour; I can still conjure up its taste and texture now, weeks later.
If I was to use one word to describe what I felt at Haçienda de San Rafael it would be tranquility. I was incredibly relaxed whilst there and didn’t want to leave; two nights just wasn’t enough. It’s not one thing that makes it special but an amalgamation of so many small details that they get so right. There’s a very homely feel suffused into every room, thanks to the attention to detail of Cookie, the mother of the two brothers that now run the Haçienda de San Rafael. Cookie’s influence can be seen everywhere you look, she and her family are visible on the walls, in the pictures and paintings around the building. When you sit down in the living area you feel as though you’re in her home. I suppose on some level you are, although she doesn’t live there, the building has been in her family for many years.
The bedrooms are simply decorated with a few well-chosen decorative details. Ours had a double height bedroom area, with stairs leading up to a cosy lounge, and below it a large bathroom with a wonderful shower and a bath tub I happily whiled-away at least an hour in. I don’t know what they wash their towels with but I’ve never felt any so soft.
The gardens are perfect for a wander before dinner, we caught the sun setting over the olive grove which was incredibly beautiful. We then headed in for a gin and tonic from their honesty bar in the lounge, before sitting down to a delicious three-course dinner which included some perfectly cooked sea bass. A comforting hot chocolate back in the lounge after dinner and we were ready to sink into our bed for an incredible night’s sleep. We then got to do it all over again the next day!
The Haçienda de San Rafael is a 45 minute drive from Seville, we got a taxi to take us out there as we weren’t planning to go anywhere once we arrived but if you’re staying longer a car’s a very good idea as there’s plenty to explore in the area. I arranged to go on a 2 hour horse trek with Gerry from Pure Andalusia. The stables are halfway between the haçienda and Seville which made it a perfect stop on our way back into the city. Gerry took me through old olive groves, fields and eucalyptus woods on an incredibly well-behaved horse. It was a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours, even if I could still feel it in my legs three days later. It gave me a great feel for the area and I immediately understood what had drawn Gerry to move out there in the first place. If you’re looking for someone to take you hiking or would like to explore the vast food and drink specialities of the region, Gerry can organise it all.
Haçienda de San Rafael, Carretera Nacional IV (km 594), Las Cabezas de San Juan, 41730 Sevilla
So I’m a bit of a t-shirt and jeans girl a lot of the time. I own way too many of each, all in the search for the perfect one/pair. Lately I’ve been living in my Weekday Voyage jeans and these Mango Committed ones (which I bought in the sale at the end of the summer). I’ve been much more choosy about the denim I buy since I learnt what a huge impact both denim manufacturing and cotton growing has on the environment. Both the Weekday Voyage and Mango Committed pairs were made with organic cotton which uses far less water and no harmful chemical fertilisers, pesticides or insecticides. These are harmful not only to the land but also to the people that farm it.
Everyone should own a good white tee. If you ask me, it’s THE wardrobe essential of all essentials. A classic crew in a non-fitted cut is my preferred style, the looser fit just feels more comfortable to me. I recently discovered quite a new brand that have chosen to do a few basics really well, including a classic crew. Organic Basics are from Denmark where they take sustainability a lot more seriously than most countries. As the name suggests they use organic cotton in all their products which currently range from super soft undies to t-shirts. They’re a sustainable brand challenging the industry to improve its processes. They grow their cotton in Turkey, just outside Izmir. The farmers they work with have a long history of producing high quality Turkish long fibre. The long fibre is important because it gives the smooth texture to the finished garment.
This post was created in collaboration with Auree Jewellery.
LOVE, TRAVEL, LAUGH; three things that mean a lot to me. They’re the three things that I most like to do, and am lucky enough to do regularly. I carry these words with me on my necklace, a small reminder of what I believe is important. My mind is often distracted and I’ve found that by working out what is most important to me, I’m able to let go of the things and thoughts that aren’t.
Growing up I was told that it was important for me to be my own person, not to copy others but to discover the things I liked and enjoyed. The older I get the more that makes sense to me. We’re all individuals with our own passions and although it’s easy to get swept along with what everyone else is doing, it’s more fun to discover something more personal to you. Some things are universal though, we all need and gain from having and building good relationships. Without the LOVE of our partners, friends and family, life would be dull. Having someone to share the good and bad times with is important for all of us and allows us to grow as people. TRAVEL always offers me the opportunity to meet you new people, be inspired by new places and learn about different cultures. It’s the chance to escape the ordinary that is a breath of fresh air to me. And, life shouldn’t always be taken too seriously, there is something so energising about really LAUGHing with someone, the friends that have me in fits of giggles are my best friends. I’m unguarded with them and utterly relaxed.
The necklace I’m wearing is Auree’s Seychelles Spinning Love, Travel, Laugh Pendant. It’s a classic Victorian design that hides the message until you spin it. Auree are kindly offering you a discount code to use on their website until 18/12/17. If you type in AUREEANGEL7 you will receive 15% off all pendants and necklaces, just in time for you to buy some lovely Christmas presents. If you’d like to know which items are my favourite, head over to Auree’s Journal. If you follow me on Instagram, there’s a chance for you to win one of the Seychelles Spinning Pendants, either to give as a gift this Christmas or to keep for yourself. And, if you sign up to the Auree newsletter you’ll be entered into a competition to win a £250 necklace. Good luck!
So I’ve been a bit sneaky this year, instead of creating a women’s gift guide and a wish list like I usually do, I’ve combined them. I always want everything that’s on the women’s gift guide anyway so it made sense. The result is a bumper list of amazing products which I highly recommend. Each of the brands I’ve featured create the most amazing products and even if you don’t see something suitable here, please click through to their websites using the product links below, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
I’ve included all sorts in my gift guide, some obvious gifts like earrings, beauty products and candles as well as something a little more unusual like this beautiful print by Nadia Taylor at Print Club London and a box of cacti from the cool plant people at Geo Fleur. The gorgeous hoop earrings are from Otiumberg, a brand whose website I find myself returning to over and over again because I just can’t decide which pair of earrings I want most. Women will always tell you they need another handbag but they might not feel that way if they own one of PB 0110’s timeless designs. As long as it fits the world in (well a nice make-up bag and a few other bits) and is versatile enough to go with almost everything, it’ll be a big hit. Immunocologie’s The Luminous Set is perfect for anyone struggling with their skin in this cold weather, oil based products will keep them protected. And if they’re feeling really cold and just want to cosy up at home, a beautiful dressing gown should do the trick, I’ve not seen one more beautiful than this one from Toast. SEP Jordan’s geometric cushion covers are designed and made in Jordan by female refugees. The brand has given these women a chance to make their own money so they no longer have to beg for even the most basic things. I hope you find something wonderful for the important women in your life. Happy shopping.
Christmas is just around the corner and I’m finally thinking about gift ideas. I always aim to buy presents that are useful. Unless I know someone needs something specific, I try to keep it quite simple. I love to buy things that people can eat, drink or use in the home, as I know they’re not likely to go to waste.
1. David Mellor Rosewood Starter Knife Set | 2. Prévu Core Combed Cotton Hoodie in Olive | 3. Cate & Nelson Nº 173 40 mm Watch in Black | 4. Gestalten Small Homes, Grand Living – Interior Design for Compact Spaces Book | 5. Iris Hantverk Shoehorn | 6. Murmur Speck Throw in Grey, White & Black | 7. Native Union Lightning Cable Collection | 8. Moleskine Wine Journal | 9. Muuto Corky Carafe | 10. Willow Organic Men’s Shower Set | 11. Sunspel Pima Cotton Lounge Pants in Navy | 12. Sunspel Cotton Cellulock Long Sleeve T-Shirt in Navy | 13. ferm LIVINGBrass Semicircle Stand | 14. ARKET Vetiver Hand Wash 500ml | 15. Toast Christmas Hamper | 16. PB 0110 CM39 Coin Case in Black | 17. Herbivore Beard Tonic Sampler
Toast‘s Christmas hamper contains enough goodies to keep most men happy, at least until the start of the new year. There are some things I know will always go down well. Most men will not be disappointed to receive a watch for Christmas, as long as it’s a classic style and I think Cate & Nelson make some pretty awesome watches. They’re great value as the quality is very good, with supple leather straps and Swiss movements. Loungewear has come a long way in the last few years, it’s much smarter and much more comfortable, perfect for those lazy Sundays on the sofa. I love the soft cotton of Sunspel and have my eye on so many pieces from new menswear label, Prévu (I may end up having to steal anything I do buy, so naughty). If anyone else finds their man “borrowing” their phone charger cable on a regular basis Native Union have some very nice designs that he’ll know are his (or ask for a set yourself so that he can’t suggest it’s his). Hopefully there’s something in my list that will be a good fit or will inspire you to buy something nice for the men in your life. I’ve only selected pieces from brands that I believe produce good quality products. Happy shopping.
We flew into Seville in the early evening and as we drove into the city the light began to fade. The journey between the airport and our hotel (just 25 minutes) revealed little of Seville’s beauty. The light had all but gone by the time we drove down the quiet little cobbled street of Calle Santiago, where our hotel was located.
The Hotel Palacio de Villapanés is a former 18th Century palace in the Santa Cruz district of the city. The façade of the hotel was still impressive, with its huge dark wooden doors that open onto pink marble stairs and columns; at the top of which a set of ornate black iron gates open onto a magnificent courtyard. In the centre of the courtyard is a classical water fountain surrounded by lush green plants, the soothing sound of the water set the tone for our stay.
We arrived at the hotel just after another couple so we were asked to wait a few minutes in some pretty incredible peacock chairs. We were each given a lovely glass of refreshing Cava to drink whilst we waited. A couple of minutes later we were given a thorough overview of Seville’s old town by Pedro, a member of the hotel’s knowledgable concierge team. We were then shown to our room at the back of the hotel, on the top floor, overlooking a second courtyard. We had a pretty special room, it was simple, comfortable and luxurious with a private terrace and sun cabana. The hotel also has a large roof terrace with a plunge pool that’s open to all guests.
We dropped our bags in the room, changed quickly and headed off to find something to eat. I had been given a few recommendations by friends but as it was getting late and we’d been travelling for the best part of the day we asked the concierge to recommend somewhere good nearby. David (another member of the concierge team) suggested Catalina Casa de Comidas y Más, a restaurant with a simple style that served some wonderful fresh food. I got my octopus fix with a delicious dish of grilled octopus and aubergine, whilst Sophie opted for an amazing courgette salad with smoked sardines, Arzúa cheese and red pesto. We opted for an early night and headed back to the hotel for a nightcap, that’s if camomile tea counts? It was lovely sitting in the inner courtyard taking in our beautiful surroundings.
Our bed was huge with lovely squidgy pillows and two light-as-a-feather duvets (one each). We closed the shutters, pulled the curtains and slept insanely well, to the point where we both slept in late. When we did manage to rouse ourselves and opened the curtains and shutters we were greeted was a wonderful view over the rooftops of the surrounding buildings. One incredible shower with three different jet options and Molton Brown goodies later, I was ready for breakfast. The hotel provides a diverse buffet covering most tastes, as well as offering cooked food and a glass of pink sparkling wine, should you be in the mood.
We were a little gutted to discover the amazing wellness area too late in our stay (we were only there for two nights). The sauna and steam room would have gone down well, had we had the time.
Davina Mulford Fedora in Wine with Burgundy Band (Closed now) | ME+EM Icon Cable Knit Sweater in Cream* | Weekday Voyage Jeans in Wow Blue | Adidas Court Vantage in White | Davina Mulford Fringed Cross Body Bag in Black* (Closed now) | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | CFconcept Tusk Necklace
Last month, just before I headed off to Seville, Davina Mulford asked me if I would style and model some looks for her AW17 campaign. I’m a genuine fan of her namesake brand; I practically lived in one of her Panama hats over the summer and her cross body bag has seen me through many sartorial situations. Davina is lovely, talented and passionate; she’s also been very supportive of Style&Minimalism, always encouraging and there for a chat.
Her new collection features four colour variations of her traditional fedora (eight if you include her new monogram service which allows you to have your initials embroidered on the ribbon). She’s chosen a classic palette of navy, burgundy, pale grey and camel – so there’s something to suit everyone. They’re well-structured fedoras (no flimsy, floppy brims) that sit comfortably on the head. They come with a few sticky felt strips that you can place under the inner rim if you need to adjust the fit slightly.
For the campaign I styled four looks, each to compliment one of the four colour variations. I chose to style my looks with pieces from brands I regularly wear; including ME+EM, Baukjen and AllSaints. If you’d like to see some of the other looks, please visit the Davina Mulford blog where Davina has kindly shared an interview she did with me at the time. In it I share some styling tips and advice. If you have a read please do come back and leave a comment below to let me know what you think.
On a side note, I just wanted to mention how amazing this jumper is from ME+EM. It’s a merino-cashmere-mix and comes with a detachable collar that converts it into a polo-neck, a clever design that will see me through the winter.
Sadly since this post went live Davina decided to close-up shop. The struggle for small businesses to survive in this industry in the early years is such a huge challenge, even when you have an incredible product.
This post was created in collaboration with STAY Copenhagen.
Last month, Brittany Bathgate and I took a trip to Copenhagen for the weekend. It’s a city we both have quite an obsession with; we’ve been previously, on separate occasions. This time around we stayed at STAY Copenhagen, an apartment hotel in the Islands Brygge area of the city. They have 172 apartments, ranging in size from studio apartments to penthouses, that have all been designed by HAY (one of my favourite Danish brands) in a minimal monochrome palette. Each feels bright and open with huge windows on either side. As the sun set, the light in our apartment flooded in, casting beautiful shadows across the floor and furniture. We stayed in one of their top floor penthouse apartments, each with our own double bedroom and bathroom. My bathroom was partitioned from my room with a dramatic clear glass wall. We had a large balcony, that on warmer days would have been lovely to use. And if that’s not enough, there’s a huge rooftop terrace for everyone to use. The block looks like an ‘A’ from above, creating an inner terrace which some ground floor apartments back on to. On the other side are a mix of cafés and restaurants, including Scarpetto, WabiWabi, Le Marché and Emmerys. It’s a beautiful decked space with raised geometric flower beds dotted around.
Previously known as the ‘A-House’, the block once housed some of Copenhagen’s top creatives. Some of the apartments are still adorned with remnants of their previous owners; a scribble on a wall, a print on a ceiling. The building still reflects its artistic past with the apartments and rooftop regularly being used for all sorts of things like pop-up restaurants, recording studios and photoshoots.
Just across the harbour from Islands Brygge is Dybbølsbro station where you can get a train to Nørreport in about 10 minutes. There’s also Kødbyen (the meatpacking district) just beyond Dybbølsbro station where you can find lots of cool bars and restaurants, including Kødbyens Fiskebar.
There were so many amazing places I wanted to visit when I was in Copenhagen; and high on my list was the Frama Studio Store. As the name suggests, it is a studio-cum-store, a space for Frama to showcase and sell all their wonderful designs. It’s such a beautiful space, very calming, and filled with designs I would love to see in my own home. Brittany, Hannah and I arrived in the rain and were immediately invited to sit down for a coffee and a chat with Johanne from Frama; it was super relaxed, as I’ve come to realise is the norm everywhere but London.
The 250m2 space was at one time St. Pauls Apotek (an apothecary), then in 2013 it was sympathetically renovated by Frama. It now blends old with new in an unexpected way. I’m all for mixing classic with contemporary design, as it brings character and depth to the clean modern design that I love but it takes a lot of practise to make it work this seamlessly. As you enter the space you’re greeted with the original pharmaceutical cabinets that line two full walls. The rooms are light and airy, and there’s this feeling that you’re walking through someone’s home, only they keep it as perfectly ordered and curated as a gallery. I found each room so inspirational and came away with a long wish list for our home.
Milan is a city that welcomes you with open arms. Everywhere we went the people we met could not have been kinder, friendlier or more generous. I really enjoyed the few days I spent in Milan but this was the most poignant observation that I took away with me. It’s a much slower city than London, people are not too busy to talk to you. They take the time to have a coffee with you and give you advice on what to do in their city. They will linger at your table to tell you why their pasta tastes out-of-this-world good. And for me, one particular PR bent over backwards to ensure I got to see The Last Supper (thank you very much Sonia). The Italian culture is one of generosity but it’s never been quite so apparent to me as it was in Milan.
I tried to fit a lot in to our trip but (as always) there just wasn’t enough time to see and do everything with just 48 hours. I intend to return in the not too distant future to explore more.
Milan City Guide
Arts & Culture
Museo del Novecento Spend an hour getting up close to the works of Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Paul Klee, Kandinsky and Amedeo Modigliani, among others. Palazzo dell’Arengario, Via Guglielmo Marconi, 1, 20122 Milano
The Last Supper It’s essential to see Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural if you’re in Milan. It was meticulously restored over 20 years, layers of repainting were removed, revealing Leonardo’s original work. Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milano
Duomo di Milano Milan’s famous cathedral takes your breath away. It’s a huge Gothic building covered in intricate decoration. Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milano
Fondazione Prada An inspiring cultural centre, not just for the art they exhibit here but also its stunning architecture (it was once a distillery). Largo Isarco, 2, 20139 Milano
Sempione Park Escape the streets of Milan for a walk in this beautiful city centre park. Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano
Shopping
Fidenza Village An hour outside of Milan is a fantastic shopping outlet with shops including Loewe, Belstaff, Jil Sander, Rado, Paul Smith and Levi’s. There’s also a lovely restaurant called Villano, serving the most delicious fresh pasta and Lambrusco (a sparkling red wine). Via San Michele Campagna, 43036 Fidenza
10 Corso Como Outlet You’ll find collections from previous seasons from brands including Helmut Lang, Chloé and Comme des Garçons; as well as vintage pieces. Via Tazzoli, 3, 20154 Milano
RAW Find a souvenir that’s a bit more unusual in this shop of curiosities. Corso Magenta, 10, 20123 Milano
Cafés, Bars & Restaurants
Princi Stop in at one of their five bakery-cum-cafés in Milan for bread, cakes and coffee. Piazza XXV Aprile, 5, 20154 Milano
Pasticceria Marchesi Stop in for a morning coffee and pastry in Milan’s oldest pastry shop. Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, 20123 Milano
Bar Luce A quirky café at the Fondazione Prada that was designed by film director Wes Anderson. Stop in and try a glass of the local Franciacorta sparkling white wine. Largo Isarco, 2, 20139 Milano
10 Corso Como A restaurant, gallery, design shop and hotel all-in-one, 10 Corso Como has everything. Corso Como, 10, 20154 Milano
28 Posti A modern Italian restaurant, a stone’s throw from the Naviglio Grande. I plan to try their tasting menu next time I’m in Milan. Via Corsico, 1, 20144 Milano
Terrazza Triennale A Michelin starred restaurant on top of the Palazzo dell’Arte in the Park Sempione with panoramic views of the city. It was designed by Milanese architects, OBR. Viale Alemagna Emilio, 6, 20121 Milano
La Pesa Trattoria 1902 If you want a traditional restaurant, serving classic Milanese dishes, this is the place to go. Via Giovanni Fantoni, 26, 20148 Milano
Vetusta Insignia Head here for a delicious platter of local meats and burrata. Alzaia Naviglio Grande 48, 20144 Milano
Stay
Hotel Magna Pars Suites Light and fresh modern Italian design hotel, close to the Naviglio Grande. (Read my review here.) Via Vincenzo Forcella, 6, 20144 Milano
Senato Hotel A beautifully designed hotel, mixing metal and marble in a modern way. Via Senato, 22, 20121 Milano
Hotel VIU Milan Mixing smart design in a comforting palette, it’s a luxury hotel that you’ll feel at home in. Via Aristotile Fioravanti, 6, 20154 Milano
I’ve dabbled with brown hair before but I’ve always felt more comfortable and confident as a blonde. As I’ve gotten older my naturally blonde hair has turned more mousey blonde and I’ve resorted to highlights and high-lift tints to maintain the lighter look I prefer. The downside is that my fine hair has become quite dry and harder to style. I’ve resorted to using heated tools again but this causes further damage, even with a heat protector. I’m guessing I’m not the only one in this situation so I thought I’d share the latest haircare products I’ve been using on my highlighted hair that have made a huge difference. Not surprisingly, they’ve become an essential part of my routine.
I’m a tough customer when it comes to haircare products, I find they usually over promise and under deliver. I’ve been using the same professional shampoo and conditioner for the last two years, as everything I’ve tried since just hasn’t compared. My old staples are not the worst products, they’ve done a fairly good job but I’ve always thought that there might be something better, and that my hair needed something extra.
Sachajuan is not a new brand to me, I’ve been using their Hair In The Sun UV protector for a few years now but for some reason I’d never thought to give the rest of their range of products a try, until now. The brand is eye catching, with its Scandi-minimal packaging and label. Their bottles are the sort you can confidently display in your bathroom, but don’t be fooled, it’s not style over substance, their products are very good.
I’m always suspicious of people who say that they noticed a difference after using something just once. However, I have genuinely seen a dramatic change in the condition, feel and colour of my hair since I switched to Sachajuan two weeks ago. It’s now got more of the relaxed swishiness it had when I was younger. It feels much softer which has led me to keep touching it as I can’t believe it’s my hair. And, my highlights look a lot brighter and softer in tone.
All of their products contain their Ocean Silk Technology, a combination of active ingredients, sea algae, protein and minerals which boost moisture, repair split ends, reduce frizz, generally improve the condition of the hair and give it back its shine. They also all smell incredible.
A good shampoo and conditioner that leave my hair feeling clean but not stripped, soft but not weighed-down.
The Intensive Repair Shampoo is designed for people with damaged, porous, dry hair and/or hair exposed to the sun. My hair currently ticks all of these boxes. The shampoo gently washes the hair leaving it feeling clean but not stripped, and the conditioner leaves it feeling soft but not weighed-down. They also has UV protectants that penetrate the hair follicle, protecting it from future UV damage.
Hair Repair & Over Night Hair Repair
Although these two products sound similar they are slightly different, one you need to wash out and the other you can but don’t have to. They both work like a hair mask, giving your hair a little extra nourishment. I’ve found them both to be affective and have used one or both at least once a week, depending on which fits into my routine. The Hair Repair is a post-shampoo treatment that you leave on for up to 10 minutes before washing out. I give my hair a light towel dry before applying it. You don’t have to do this but I think it helps the product penetrate the hair more effectively. It heals split ends, is great if you struggle with frizz and generally improves the health and shine of your hair.
The Over Night Hair Repair is somewhere between a mask and a leave-in conditioner. After washing your hair in the evening, you apply the product from the ends up. You then sleep in it and, depending on your hair type, you can either leave it on or wash it out in the morning. It’s water-based so it doesn’t feel or make your hair greasy. It improves elasticity as well as strengthening the hair. There are two algae that play an important role, Rhodophycea which works on the inside and Chondrus Crispus which works on the outside.
Leave In Conditioner & Intensive Hair Oil
I’ve been using both the Leave In Conditioner and Intensive Hair Oil when drying my hair. It might sound like overkill but my hair is that dry that it can take it. After washing and towel drying my hair I spray the Leave In Conditioner all over and then apply just a small pump of the Intensive Hair Oil. I comb both through my hair before applying Bumble and bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer. If my hair is still a little flyaway once it’s dry I use a tiny bit of the Intensive Hair Oil to smooth it down.
