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Beauty

Asian Beauty

What happens when you stop wearing heels?

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


A couple of months ago, I visited the Supersports Factory Outlet at MBK Shopping Centre in Bangkok. It’s a great place to shop for off-season sports shoes and the like, and I snagged a pair of sports shoes at a very reasonable price. But this post isn’t about shopping at Supersports.

It’s about how I suddenly realised that my feet weren’t the same as they used to be once I stopped wearing heels.

In college and university, I all but lived in sneakers. I bought my first pair of working shoes (with heels) before I started work. Like all young working adult women then, I was conditioned into thinking that we had to wear heels to work, to fit some sort of mould; almost like a rite of passage into adulthood.

I started my working life in a traditional profession during vastly different era, where the work culture was very traditional, and misogyny was (is, even) rife. Wearing skirts was practically compulsory, and heels were expected. Young ‘uns will never get it LOL! 😀

While I was never hugely into shoes, I did find myself conforming to the norm. I wore heels ranging from the thick clunky ones that I could walk in, to almost stilettos, that I could not LOL! 😀 I wore round-toed shoes to sleek, pointy toed heels. They were uncomfortable, I battled blisters, and I never enjoyed wearing heels. But I conformed, because that’s what we do.

As the years wore on, I noticed that my feet had developed bunions due to the awkward, unnatural shape they had been forced into over the years. While I did not wear tight leather heeled shoes that often, I wore them often enough that it had affected the shape of my feet. The bunions on one of my feet would twinge now and again, but they weren’t that serious to warrant treatment – not yet.

And then, the pandemic hit over 5 years ago (gosh, already!) and I retreated to a casual lifestyle.

I stopped wearing heels, because there was nowhere to wear them to. I was semi-retired from office work, and there were no beauty events to attend. Social activities had ground to a halt for over 2 years.

In that time, I walked around barefoot, in slippers, or in sneakers. My feet were no longer restrained and constrained in tight, fitting leather shoes. I was no longer compelled to wear heels, putting strain on my knees, back and putting my posture in an unnatural position. I could wear whatever I wanted, and all I wanted was something comfortable on my feet that would protect them, and allow me the stability to walk comfortably, and to walk my dog.

When I needed to replace my sneakers recently, I took a long hard look at my feet and realised:

  • They were no longer the same size – my feet are now up to a whole size bigger than they were before, and for some reason, my sneaker sizes were almost 2 whole sizes bigger! This realisation was crucial, as I had been buying all the wrong sizes based on my old feet size, and I was wondering why my feet felt uncomfortable in my new shoes.
  • They were less narrow – I’d always had narrow feet, and they still are fairly narrow, but no longer narrow enough to fit into my old leather shoes LOL RIP my narrow Ferragamo shoes I had to specially buy online because they don’t carry the width here 🙁 My feet seem to have ‘spread’ so are wider than they used to be
  • My bunions were less severe and my feet look less deformed – I hadn’t realised that my bunion hadn’t twinged in a while, and while my toes aren’t straight, they appeared to be less deformed. I had not done anything to them in this time, merely allowed my feet to be in a natural state.
  • How liberating and free my feet felt in non-leather shoes – I wear exclusively sneakers or slippers these days, and my feet feel so free! They can actually MOVE and breathe now.

I’m sad about my cupboard of heels and shoes that no longer fit, of course. But at the same time, I’m happy that my feet have been allowed to revert to a more natural state, and that I no longer am forced to conform to societal norms and trot around in heels when I don’t enjoy it.

Is this post about not wearing heels, or just about feeling more liberated by throwing off yet another shackle of societal norms? It’s hard to say – probably a little of both 🙂

Do you still wear heels?

PB


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British Beauty

SHOPPING FOR A NEWBORN *UPDATED EDIT* – Lily Pebbles

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence



Despite being told left, right and centre that newborn babies really don’t need much stuff, it’s impossible not to get sucked into the world of baby shopping and it can be really quite overwhelming! On one hand I know that a newborn doesn’t need all the stuff, but on the other I feel like you only have your first baby once and there’s no harm enjoying that. So I feel like I’ve been somewhere in the middle when it comes to shopping. I’m letting myself enjoy the process and buy a few unnecessary bits just because they’re cute, but I’m also trying to be practical and not go too over the top. In fact one of my tactics has been, instead of asking friends and family what I should be buying, I’ve been asking what was the one thing they bought that they ended up not needing or using. Of course you have to factor in that every baby is totally different and what works for one might not work for another, and that’s something no-one knows until the time comes.

I think it’s quite common for people in the UK to start thinking about shopping after their 20 week scan, so that’s what we did and we didn’t jump in head first, we eased our way in. I started by researching online and chatting to friends and family. Compiling a Google list that Rich and I could both log into and edit helped me get my head around it and stopped me impulse buying every time I saw something cute. In fact we didn’t even go into a shop until I was maybe 23 weeks. I’m aware that a baby doesn’t go into it’s own bedroom right at the beginning, but we didn’t want to be decorating and sorting out a room with a newborn so that’s something we wanted to sort beforehand. I gave Rich some specific jobs so that he could be involved and know exactly how he could help, so he was in charge of researching things like baby monitors, cot mattress and baby slings.

*UPDATE*

Hello, Lily post-baby talking now… I was almost spot-on with all of my purchases, but since actually having a baby myself I’ve learnt so much and I thought I’d update this blog post and share a much more experience based checklist. Of course these are not essentials and everyone’s budget will be totally different, so feel free to adapt the list to what you need. This is just what I send my girlfriends when they ask me, and so I thought I’d make it public! As you’ll see on the checklist there’s an A and a B list, because not everything is needed for the first few weeks when a baby is a newborn. I found it really helpful to do all my research when pregnant and have all my links ready to go for when I needed to make the purchases, but to not buy the items until I needed them and it spread out the costs a bit too.

Click the link below to download my newborn “essentials” checklist. 

NEWBORN SHOPPING LIST

Watch the video where I talk in more detail about the specific products I used and liked below. 

NEWBORN ESSENTIALS VIDEO

SHOP SOME OF MY FAVOURITES HERE

 

Photos by Emma Croman


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Canadian Beauty

Dior · Rouge Blush Colour & Glow

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


 

 

Dior recently launched Rouge Blush Colour & Glow available in contour and highlighter duos, as well as blush and highlighter duos — with both having been designed to function as multi-use face palettes. In other words, makeup that’s gorgeous AND versatile. I’m in.

 

 

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Rouge Blush Contour & Glow (CAN $67.00/each) | Housed in a slim navy compact case with a full sized mirror on the inner lid, there is a contour shade on one side and a coordinating highlighter beside it. The surface of the powder displays the brand’s iconic cannage (caning) pattern, as well as the CD initials in raised lettering. The formula is infused with a gel that helps in providing a long-lasting and hydrating feel, while the texture feels super silky and blends effortlessly along the skin. The finish of the contour shade is said to be matte, but I find it imparts a faint sheen — a plus, as that keeps the colour from looking flat and one-dimensional. Pigmentation on the contour powder leans on the lighter side, which is fine by me, as this enables you to have more control over application. The highlighter shades are absolutely stunning, buttery smooth and bearing a complex shimmer. Diorissimo is the more neutral of the two and the one best suited to fair – light medium complexions, while Diorama is warmer leaning and while more suitable for medium and deeper skin tones, those with lighter complexions can probably make it work provided a light hand is used. I’ve been testing these out in a variety of ways, and apart from how lovely they look on the skin, they also look amazing as eyeshadow.

100 Diorissimo – pale camel contour paired with a champagne highlighter

200 Diorama – milk chocolate contour paired with a soft gold highlighter

 

Rouge Blush Blush & Glow (CAN $67.00) | There are 4 blush/highlighter shades to choose from and while that sounds like a small number, the available colour harmonies have a lot of thought behind them, which means that there’s actually a shade to suit basically every skin tone. As with the Contour & Glow duos, the formula is similarly gel infused and has an ultra-fine silky texture. The pigmentation on the blush is buildable and leaves behind a beautiful sheen, while the highlighter has the most stunning complex shimmer. While these have all been designed for the face, I can also see these working as eyeshadow and even mixed for unique new colours. In testing, I actually have worn this blush along the lid — sometimes paired with one of the contour shades, other times solo — and I absolutely love how it marries so beautifully with the blush placement.

 

 

I’m a huge fan of makeup that can serve a variety of needs, and both the Contour & Glow as well as the Blush & Glow definitely deliver. You can use them in the traditional sense; blush for cheeks, highlighter on high points, and contour for definition, but by thinking out of the box you can also wear them as eyeshadows or even bronzer — let your imagination rule. This versatility means that they are also great for travelling with; less makeup to pack!

Available at Dior counters and online

 

 

Kindly provided by Dior for my unbiased consideration




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Indonesian Beauty

[Review] Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Kiehl’s ini merupakan salah satu brand skincare yang menurutku sudah memiliki title “legendary” — aduh siapa sih yang gak tau brand ini, ya gak? Dari jaman aku kuliah 11 tahun lalu juga brand ini sudah popular banget dengan produk-produknya yang jadi holygrail orang-orang sampai jadi cult-favorite.

Selain memang klaim dan produknya yang memang bagus, brand ini memiliki daya tarik sendiri . Sungguh prestige rasanya kalau sudah pernah cobain produk-produk dari Kiehl’s. Dan salah satu produk “legendary” dari Kiehl’s yang patut jadi sorotan lebih yaitu si serum Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution yang akan aku bahas mendalam pada review kali ini.

This serum is house in a transparent glass bottle yang berisi 30 ml, dengan aplikator pipet. Yes, tentunya it also come in a white box yang sudah cukup informative. Semua penjelasan lengkap mulai dari cara pakai dan ingredients bisa kalian baca di dus nya.

Untuk tekstur, serum ini berwarna bening dengan gel-like konsistensi yang agak runny. Formulanya mudah diratakan, dan ngasih feels lembab juga pada kulit. Ini adalah salah satu Vitamin C serum yang menggunakan 3-O-Ethyl-Ascorbic-Acid. Jadi meskipun di Indonesia produk lokalnya baru booming dengan bahan ini, Kiehl’s sudah memakai turunan Ascorbic Acid yang bersifat gentle & stabil ini dari bertahun-tahun lalu. Jelas kan kenapa aku sebut dia adalah “legend” hehe.

Dengan memakai kandungan 3-O-Ethyl-Ascorbic-Acid (3-O-EAA) ini, sehingga serum ini jatuhnya masih aman untuk pemula. Karena si 3-O-EAA ini memang less irritation jatuhnya dikulit, jadi kemungkinan drying dan sensitized lebih kecil. Kandungan ini juga merupakan sumber antioxidant untuk menangkal radikal bebas, mencerahkan kulit kusam, mampu menyamarkan bekas jerawat / sunspots maupun hyperpigmentation. Bagi yang dulu malas pakai sunscreen dan mulai ada flek, nah kalian bisa pakai ini untuk reduce atau kalau memang genetic –paling tidak, dengan pakai ini tidak menambah adanya flek. Karena asli ya, flek itu kalau sudah terlalu dalam akan susah banget ditreat-nya. At least ya harus laser, keluar berapa duit lagi ya kan.

Untuk yang kulitnya oily-acne prone, serum ini mengandung Salicylic Acid sebagai exfoliator yang sifatnya oil-soluble jadi bisa membersihkan sel-sel kulit mati dan sebum sampai ke lapisan kulit yang lebih dalam. Bagi yang suka mengeluh pori-pori terlihat lebar, nah ini bisa jadi solusi juga untuk tighten pores. Karena pori-pori terlihat lebar itu ya karena penumpukan kotoran dan minyak. Aku sendiri cocok dengan Saliclyc Acid karena kandungan ini membantu sekali untuk melunakkan komedo ku, jadi lebih mudah dibersihkan.

Sumber antioxidant nya pun sebenernya enggak hanya dari 3-O-EAA saja ya, tapi juga dari Vitamin E yang terkandung didalam serum ini yaitu Tocopheryl Acetate & Tocopherol. Serum ini juga mengandung Ethyl Alcohol ya, tapi no worries, kandungan ini sebenernya masih oke dengan persentase yang sesuai karena alcohol juga berperan sebagai antibacterial dan mengikat bahan actives dalam serum agar gak mudah rusak.

Serum ini bisa kalian pakai am-pm ya, gak masalah sama sekali, pokoknya rutin aja lah kalau mau lihat hasil significant. Kalau aku sendiri, suka pakainya di pagi hari karena pemakaian dalam satu routine dengan sunscreen itu efeknya luar biasa untuk sun protection karena duo combo Vitamin C dan sunscreen itu mampu mencipatkan protective barrier terhadap sun damage.

Untuk formulanya memang setelah diratakan dan menyerap, akan ada rasa tacky nya , tapi ini bisa diakalin ya kalau memang kalian merasa kurang nyaman, yaitu semprot dengan face mist setelah pemakaian serum atau saat serum setengah menyerap langsung kalian timpa moisturizer. Dengan begitu, tackiness nya akan hilang.

Untuk efficacy yang paling terlihat pada kulitku adalah warna kulit yang terlihat lebih merata, antara wajah dan leher. Terutama kalau habis panas-panasan renang, serum ini cepet banget mengembalikan skin tone aku agar lebih rata. Efek cerahnya juga nampol banget. Bagi yang punya sunspots atau hyperpigmentation yang masih “halus” , bisa tersamar asal kalian pakainya juga rutin. This product is indeed worth every penny.

Jadi kalau kalian lagi cari serum yang mampu tackle kulit kusam, uneven skin tone, untuk brightening dan menyamarkan sunspots/hyperpigmenation, butuh antioxidant go for this one! Check out juga website Kiehl’s untuk info produk lainnya

Hope it helps!


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Beauty

Is Salt Water Good For Curly Hair?

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


There are so many different hair care products designed to give a beachy waves, or beachy curled effect, as if you’ve been swimming in the sea, for an effortless wavy, textured look.

If you have naturally curly hair, is salt water good for curly hair? What happens if you swim in the ocean (or a saltwater pool), with curly hair?

Could it cause your curls to get damaged? I’m going to explain the effects of salt water for curly hair, so keep on reading…

Is Salt Water Good For Curly Hair?

Why Does Salt Water Make Hair Curly?

Whenever you go into the ocean, or you swim in a saltwater pool, you’ll notice how your hair becomes wavy or curly, as it begins to dry.

How curly your hair becomes, depends on your natural hair type, and if you naturally have a curl/wave pattern. 

Saltwater can enhance your natural curl within your hair, as the salt within the water draws moisture out of the hair shaft.

This then makes the hair strands slightly rougher and more prone to clumping together, to give you that “beachy” hair look. 

Minerals within the saltwater creates a light coating on the hair, which gives the beachy texture and definition, to create a beachy and tousled effect. 

Pros and Cons Of Salt Water For Your Hair

You do have some benefits from saltwater, like giving you a beachy, textured effect and volume, making waves and curls look more defined. 

You’ll notice that the minerals within seawater can give you a mild cleansing effect, and potentially stimulate your scalp.

However, there are a number of downsides of saltwater for your hair. The salt is very drying for all hair types, and can strip the hair of its natural oils, which can lead to frizz, brittleness and potential damage – especially if you have dry hair or color treated hair in the first place. 

The mineral buildup can make your hair feel stiff, or dull overtime, so I’d recommend using a clarifying shampoo after going in saltwater, to cleanse your hair of impurities, and any salt build-up, to keep your hair as clean as possible. 

How To Protect Your Curls When Swimming In Salt Water

Is Salt Water Good For Curly Hair?

Salt water can enhance your curls, as the salt draws out moisture, which gives your hair both definition and texture, while the minerals can add a little hold.

When it comes to the downsides, saltwater has a drying effect on your curls, and curlier hair tends to be naturally drier than straight hair, and this can lead to an increase in frizz, tangles, and a loss of moisture, which can then lead to your curls becoming brittle, and more prone to breakage. 

If you are going in saltwater, ensure you use a clarifying shampoo to cleanse your hair of the salt, but also make sure you use intensively hydrating haircare products to recoup any lost moisture, to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.

How To Protect Your Curls When Swimming In Salt Water

If you’re going to be swimming in salt water, you can start by pre-wetting your hair with fresh water first, as this will help reduce moisture loss and keep your curls hydrated, and healthy. 

Apply a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight hair oil (like Moroccan Oil), as it’ll act as a protective barrier, against potential saltwater damage. 

After swimming, rinse your hair immediately, to remove any salt residue, as this will help to restore moisture levels, preventing extra dehydration (and damage).

You could also follow up with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and hydrating curly hair friendly conditioner to replace any lost moisture. 


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Asian Beauty

4 Reasons why do you need to look perfect bride on your wedding day

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Wedding holds a lot of importance in everyone’s life. It is the most beautiful day for both the bride and groom as they are going to start a new life together. Making your wedding ceremony memorable with wedding photography has always been the biggest trend in the world. The beauty of bridal makeup and bridal dress always give an eye-catching look and it represents the wedding culture. No one wants to ruin their wedding event because of little mistakes, so we are here to give you some professional advices for your wedding day. Let’s move down and discuss why do you need to look perfect bride on your wedding day.

Biggest Event of your life

Wedding day is the biggest day of your life and you can never forget your wedding day, no matter what. That’s the major reason for looking perfect bride. Wedding day comes with happiness for both the bride and groom and their families too. Wedding day is the only day in which whole family members and most of the neighbors and friends are present. Isn’t it the biggest event?

Everyone’s watching you

The Bride and the groom are staring the wedding event and averagely 200-300 persons are invited on their wedding day. And everyone waits for the bride and groom to enter the hall. They love to see and capture the photos of perfectly dolled up bride in a beautiful bridal dress.

Wedding Photography

Wedding photography has always been the biggest trend for wedding. Hiring a wedding photography is the best thing you would like to do for your wedding. While everyone is busy in enjoying the event, only the photographers can capture all the moments of your wedding and give them a perfect shape by designing albums. Looking a perfect bride holds a lot of importance when it comes to wedding photography because your wedding day is just for 3-4 days but the photography will be kept safe and remembered for years. So wearing a perfectly matched bridal dress and bridal makeup will make you a perfect bride on your wedding day.

  • Pretty Bride of Moshaz
  • Preety Bride of Moshaz Beauty Salon
    Prettiest Bride
  • Urwa Hocane at Moshaz Beauty Salon
    Urwa hocane at Moshaz Beauty Parlour

Cultural Traditions

The cultural tradition varies from nation to social classes or caste. There are different cultural traditions that are being followed for hundreds and thousands of years. These traditions are always beautiful and are worthy to be captured. The bride and groom are always starring on these traditions and for these traditions it is important to take care of your looks.

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British Beauty

15 Ways to Get Your Camembert Fix This Christmas 

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Christmas won’t be Christmas without any camembert, or so the famous first line in Little Women goes…

This gorgeously gooey baked cheese is a dinner party classic, and for good reason! Whether it’s served as a mini-fondue on a grazing board ready for guests to tuck in with hunks of toasted sourdough, an elite starter flavoured with fresh rosemary and garlic, or the star in show of a picky bits tea, this humble cheese can take the most vanilla of dinner plans and transform them into a festive feast. 

If you’re looking for a way to reinvent the camembert wheel this Christmas, then you’ve landed in the right place because CheeseTok has been good to us this year, inspiring creative recipes aplenty. From truffle-flavoured creations to pigs in blankets pasta wheels and cranberry and camembert pastry twists, consider this the only inspo you need to make sure you take the crown for hostess with the mostest this Christmas. 

Baked Camembert With Honey & Chilli

A classic throw-in-the-oven, minimal effort dish is a busy hostess’s best friend, and this chilli and honey baked camembert is as 10/10 delicious as it is easy. Simply score your camembert, add some sprigs of rosemary and drizzle with honey and chilli flakes before baking, and prepare to wow. Serve with toasted sourdough, crackers or a slice of fluffy focaccia and enjoy the most moreish starter you’ll be thinking about for days afterwards. Find the recipe on Lindsey’s website here.

Camembert Sandwich

The sandwich of all sandwiches, consider this the most elite lunch choice you can make throughout the festive season. Melted between a toasted crusty loaf or bagel, this summery take on a Christmas classic features strawberries, blueberries and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze that’s sure to have your tastebuds dancing. 

Caramelised Camembert Potato Fondue

If there were two things in this world that we simply never tire of, let it be known it’s cheese and potatoes. This god tier recipe is one that combines the best bits of both, with a base of caramelised onions and creamy mash, topped with half a camembert, sprigs of rosemary, cloves of garlic and a drizzle of honey for the perfect mix of sweetness and tanginess. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, make sure it’s placed at your end of the table at dinner…

Truffle Baked Camembert Cheese

Elevate your camembert with a shaved truffle finish (*chef’s kiss*) and the most elite means of taking a traditional Christmas starter from predictable to perfection. Made all the better by the addition of a generous portion of confit garlic, this dish is one of few ingredients but guaranteed to have your guests requesting it time and time again. 

Camembert Spaghetti

Two words. Camembert Spaghetti- we’re sold. Once again made all the more delicious by the addition of copious amounts of garlic, this creamy spaghetti dish is comfort food central and one that’s perfect for December when your fridge is packed with an eclectic mix of ingredients that don’t exactly make a cohesive meal. With minimal ingredients, this pasta dish feels like a step up from your go-to pesto pasta with all the same comforting qualities. Midweek dinners just got all the more delicious. 

Camembert Croissant Sandwich

Sweet and savoury marry perfectly in this croissant sandwich, stepping up from the classic cheddar and ham filling with a combination that’s sure to become a staple of your festive brunch menus. With a generous jam base, melted camembert middle and chopped walnut topping, the mix of textures and flavours elevate this breakfast choice and make it the perfect Christmas morning combination that’s guaranteed to impress the in-laws. 

Pesto Baked Camembert

Speaking of pesto, this baked camembert with twisted pesto pastry is a tear and share dream, creating the perfect centrepiece for Boxing Day ‘picky bits’ in a way that wows. To make it even easier, purchase pre-rolled pastry and simply cut and twist in an impressive but surprisingly easy to replicate design, and hey presto (or should we say pesto?), you’ve created a God tier recipe in less than 10 minutes. Experiment with sundried tomato or spiced pestos for a warming kick and enjoy in front of your seventh re-run of The Holiday of the festive season. 

Chipotle Honey Baked Camembert

Realistically cheese goes well with most things, but add a little chipotle sauce, fresh spring onions and a generous dose of honey and you may well have just created food heaven. With the perfect warming kick for a cold and crisp winter’s day, pair this spiced and saucy camembert with an equally delicious crusty loaf and prepare to welcome in your new foodie obsession. 

Rosemary and Garlic Camembert with Fluffy Bread Balls 

If your dreams are often consumed by Pizza Express’ dreamy dough balls (same), look no further than this recipe for an at-home version of their doughy dynamic but bigger and better. With a honey and rosemary roasted camembert at the centre of this delicious sharing showstopper, take a dreamy December afternoon to prepare a batch of these fluffy and moreish bread rolls (it’s easier than you think) and enjoy them with a delightfully cheesy centrepiece or with a leftover Turkey and stuffing filling too. Bellissimo!  

Super Easy Garlic Camembert Boat

Christmas calls for cheese and carbs on the hour every hour, and what better way to honour that tradition than with a camembert baked tiger bloomer? Stuffed with not one but two baked camembert rounds for double the joy and drizzled in oozy garlic rosemary butter, it’s a yuletide delicacy sure to please the crowds. And there’s no danger of any vampires coming anywhere near you – it’s a win win.

Camembert & Cranberry Twists

Want a bit of crunch with your camembert? Enter camembert and cranberry twists, baked to perfection and ready to share ‘n’ tear in 20 minutes flat. To make, simply roll out your Jus-Rol pastry and cut into two circles. Spread your first circle with a generous layer of spicy cranberry sauce, place your camembert wheel in the middle and then place your second layer of pastry over the top. Seal the edges with a fork to secure the layers and cut slices into the pastry ready to make your twists. Beat one egg and egg wash the whole pastry. Once complete, twist each of your sections into place and bake for 20 minutes until golden. 

Cut the top off the top ready for dipping and dig in! Praise be, PastryTok. If you fancy adding a side of ‘health’, serve alongside a portion of crunchy crudités for a fresh palate cleanser between the puff pastry. 

Camembert Baked Potato

If there’s one woman who never fails to come *through* with those convenient 10/10 recipes, it’s Poppy. Take your week-night Jacky P dinner and make it festive with this cheesy, caramelised red onion dreamboat, studded with garlic and seasoned to perfection. Yes. Please.

Pigs In Blankets Camembert Pasta Wheels

Meet the holiday hybrid we didn’t know we needed. Pigs in blankets are a firm favourite at Christmas time so combining them with cheese and carbs is nothing short of culinary genius. Plate it up and shovel it into your merry mouth at your earliest convenience.  Merry dirty dinner December, one and all. 

Honey & Camembert On Ciabatta 

For all the times you’re craving a Pret-level Christmas sarnie but cba to venture outside, consider this honey and cam ciabatta your lazy work-from-home lunch of dreams. Winter warmer? Completed it pal. 

Camembert Wagyu Burger

For a holly, jolly Christmas look no further than this deep fried camembert wheel. This mammoth C-Bert creation is not for the faint of heart as it calls for an entire wheel of cheese, sandwiched between layers of caramelised onion and a wagyu burger. Admittedly, there’s a lot going on but if you’re B-I-G on cheese, then this maximalist meat feast is as God-tier as it gets. Note to self: there’s no way to eat this gracefully, so prepare to have a cheese-coated soul at the end of this . Villain mode: activated. 




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Canadian Beauty

The Real Silk Press Guide: For Girls Who Want Sleek Hair Without Losing Their Curls

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


The Real Silk Press Guide: For Girls Who Want Sleek Hair Without Losing Their Curls

Alright, so let’s talk silk presses. Because if you’ve ever done one, you know there’s a fine line between silky smooth and fried-to-the-point-of-no-return. I love a good press, don’t get me wrong. That first-day bounce? That shine?? Ugh. Nothing hits like it. But let’s be honest—if you’re not doing it right, your curls might not bounce back. And then my be wondering why your twist out is not acting right.

So I put this guide together for anybody who wants their silk press to actually last without wrecking their hair. Especially if you’re tired of blogs giving you the same recycled advice with no nuance. We’re getting into all the stuff they usually skip.

What Even Is a Silk Press?

If you’ve ever used a flat iron and thought, “Oh, this is a silk press,”—girl, no. It’s not. A silk press is more than just straightening your hair. It’s a technique. It’s product. It’s prep. It’s tension. And honestly, it’s kind of an art form. The goal? Make your natural hair look like you got a relaxer… without actually relaxing it.

And when it’s done right? It moves. It shines. It gives that body and shine you always wanted

Your Hair Type Matters—Like, a Lot

This is the part most people skip over. You can’t give the same silk press advice to a 3A curl pattern that you give to 4C hair. It’s not the same at all.

Here’s the deal:
  • 3A–3C? You’ll probably need way less heat. Your hair might silk out fast but watch for limpness or frizz if you go too hot.
  • 4A–4C? You need real prep. I’m talking deep moisture, protein balance, and a blow-dry that stretches the hair properly without frying it. If you skip the prep, you’ll be looking in the mirror wondering why it came out puffy.

Also, porosity matters too. I know that’s the nerdy part of hair care, but if your hair sucks up water like a sponge (hi, high porosity), you need products that seal that moisture in or your press won’t last. Period.

🧴 Scalp Care Deserves a Whole Section

Everyone talks about silk pressing the hair, but what about the scalp? Just because you straightened your hair doesn’t mean you should ignore your roots.

I like to massage a little lightweight oil or use a scalp mist that doesn’t make my hair revert. Especially around the edges and crown, where my scalp gets dry faster. If your head’s itchy after a silk press, that’s your sign. Show your scalp some love!

Preparation = EVERYTHING

I used to think silk pressing was about having a good flat iron. Nope. It starts way before that. Like… before you even blow dry.

Here’s my prep:
  • Clarify your hair. Get rid of buildup or the flat iron will just be cooking product into your strands.
  • Deep condition like your life depends on it. You want that moisture locked in.
  • Use a heat protectant that actually works (I’m not naming names but some of these brands are just scented water).
  • Blow dry with tension—gently. Stretch the hair without burning it. I use a comb attachment but a paddle brush or round boars brush works too.

And please… make sure your tools are clean. That flat iron from 2024 with the gunk on the plates? Toss it.

Products I Trust (And Why)

I’ve tried everything from drugstore to salon-level and let me tell you: sometimes the $8 serum slaps just as hard as the $30 one. It’s about ingredients and how your hair responds.

A few I love:
  • Heat Protectant: CHI 44 Iron Guard or Mielle’s heat serum
  • Smoothing Serum: Design Essentials Silk Essentials (smells amazing, too)
  • Anti-Humidity Spray: ORS or even a light mist of Sebastian Shaper if you’re fancy
  • Finishing Oil: Vegamour weightless repair hair oil

And honestly? Sometimes I just go to YouTube and look up what hairstylists are using right now. They know what’s up.

How to Make It Last Longer Than a Day

Here’s where it all falls apart for most of us: the maintenance.

Nighttime is key. Wrap it, pin curl it, pineapple it—whatever works for your hair texture. But don’t just sleep on it and expect it to look fresh in the morning. You will wake up lookin’ like humidity hugged you all night.

I personally:
  • Wrap with a satin scarf
  • Sleep on a silk pillowcase as backup
  • Use dry shampoo at the roots after day 3
  • And I don’t keep running my fingers through it (I know it’s tempting, but don’t do it)

🌀 Getting Your Curls Back Without Tears

Let’s say your silk press is done. It was cute. You got your selfies. Now you wanna go back to your curls. Please don’t just wet your hair and hope for the best.

Do a gentle cleanse and follow up with a protein + moisture treatment. If your curls look limp or weird… that might be a little heat damage. I’ve had it happen. It’s not the end of the world. Trim what needs trimming, deep condition like crazy, and give your curls time to bounce back. No panic.

And also? Your hair is still beautiful, even if that one curl won’t coil up the same anymore. Don’t beat yourself up.

Keep Your Hair Thriving Between Presses

Don’t press too often. I personally aim for once every 6–8 weeks if my hair feels healthy. Some stylists will say 3–4 times a year, and that’s probably better long-term. In between, I live in twist-outs, wash & gos, or just a cute puff with my edges laid.

I also do regular trims, deep treatments, and no heat unless I absolutely have to. My motto? Just because it’s straight doesn’t mean it’s healthy.

🌍 The Part Nobody Talks About: Culture, Identity, and Hair Choices

Let’s be real. Silk presses aren’t just about looks. For a lot of us, it’s about versatility. About showing that our hair can do both. But sometimes people act like wearing your hair straight means you’re trying to be more “acceptable” or not embracing your natural texture. And… no. It’s not that deep. Or sometimes it is. But only you get to define that for yourself.

Silk presses are a choice. And choosing to style your hair one way doesn’t cancel your love for the way it grows out of your head. Period.

❓ Random Silk Press Questions You Might Be Too Shy to Ask

  • Can I silk press dirty hair? Clean hair only.
  • Why is my silk press frizzy already? Could be humidity or poor prep.
  • Is it better to go to a pro? For your first time, absolutely. You’ll learn so much.
  • Do I need special tools? Kinda. A good flat iron makes a huge difference.

Final Thought

Look. I love a silk press. I love how it feels. I love the way it moves when the wind hits just right. But I love my actual hair even more. So if I’m gonna press it, I’m gonna do it right. No shortcuts. No regrets.

What’s your silk press secret weapon? Or horror story? Drop it in the comments.

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Indonesian Beauty

Bounce Luggage Storage in Bali: Your Ultimate Travel Companion

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


When you’re exploring the vibrant island of Bali, Indonesia, every moment counts. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on its stunning beaches, trekking through lush rice terraces, or diving into its rich cultural history, the last thing you want is the hassle of lugging around heavy bags. That’s where Bounce luggage storage in Bali, the world’s largest luggage storage network, comes in—making your travel experience smoother, more convenient, and stress-free.

Why Choose Bounce in Bali?

Bali is a traveler’s paradise with so much to explore—whether you’re visiting the famous temples, indulging in street food, or shopping for local crafts. But the burden of carrying bags can often interfere with your ability to enjoy everything the island has to offer. Bounce has made it incredibly easy to leave your luggage behind and roam Bali hands-free.

As part of a global network with over 15,000 locations in 100 countries and more than 4,000 cities, Bounce has built a strong presence in Bali, offering numerous convenient luggage storage points across the island. It’s trusted by over 2 million travelers and has stored more than 6 million bags to date. The company’s goal is simple: to make travel easier and more enjoyable, giving you the freedom to move about without worrying about your belongings.

Bag storage service to keep your things safe while travelling.

How Does Bounce Luggage Storage Work?

Using Bounce is incredibly simple. Whether you’re staying for a few hours or several days, you can easily find a Bounce partner location nearby to drop off your bags, and there are no time limits or minimum requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

#1 Book Online

Start by visiting the Bounce website or app to quickly find a luggage storage location near you in Bali. The platform allows you to browse available stores, select a convenient spot, and book online in just a few clicks.

#2 Drop Off Your Bags

Once you arrive at your selected location, simply show your booking confirmation to the store employee. They’ll safely store your bags while you explore Bali freely.

#3 Enjoy Your Day

With your bags securely stored, you can immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Bali without any encumbrances. Whether you’re hiking Mount Batur, visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, or enjoying a relaxing day at a beach club, your time is yours to enjoy.

#4 Pick Up Your Bags

After your adventure, return to the same location, show your confirmation, and pick up your belongings. You can easily change or cancel your reservation anytime before drop-off for a full refund, ensuring flexibility with your plans.

Two travelers exchanging luggage with tagged bags at a drop-off point for a free-hassle travel.
Secure and convenient luggage storage for hassle-free travel.

Secure and Affordable Luggage Storage

Bounce offers a variety of storage options that suit your travel needs. From day trips to extended stays, the rates are affordable and transparent. In Bali, you’ll find multiple storage locations offering secure facilities for all kinds of bags, from small backpacks to large suitcases. No matter what you’re carrying, Bounce has got you covered.

The best part? Insurance coverage up to $10,000 is included with each booking, so you can rest assured that your belongings are safe while you’re away. You can explore Bali with the peace of mind that your luggage is well-protected, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying your day.

Locations Across Bali: Easy Access Wherever You Are

Bounce’s network of luggage storage spots in Bali spans across the island, from the bustling streets of Kuta to the serene vibes of Ubud. You can find locations near major transport hubs, popular tourist spots, and even local cafes and shops, making it easy to drop off and pick up your bags wherever you are. Whether you’re coming from the airport, visiting local temples, or checking out the beach clubs, you’ll always have a Bounce location within reach.

Bounce, More Than Just Luggage Storage

Bounce offers much more than just a place to store your bags. It’s about enhancing your travel experience by giving you flexibility and freedom. If you’ve just arrived in Bali and your accommodation is not ready, or you’ve checked out but still have a few hours to spare, Bounce helps you make the most of your time on the island without the inconvenience of dragging around your luggage.

The service is also an excellent option for those hopping between destinations within Bali. If you’re traveling from Ubud to Seminyak for the day, storing your bags with Bounce allows you to enjoy a seamless experience between locations.

Trust and Convenience in Bali

When it comes to traveling, convenience, safety, and affordability are key. Bounce understands these priorities and has crafted a service that meets the needs of modern travelers, no matter their itinerary or budget. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with kids, or part of a larger group, Bounce caters to all kinds of travelers looking to make the most of their time in Bali.

With over 15,000 locations worldwide, Bounce has set the standard for luggage storage services. Travelers can now leave their bags behind and enjoy the freedom to explore Bali to the fullest without any worries.

Travel Smart with Bounce

Bounce makes traveling in Bali (and beyond) an unforgettable experience by providing a simple, secure, and cost-effective way to store your luggage. By using their easy online booking system, you can quickly locate a storage spot, drop off your bags, and go on to enjoy everything the island has to offer. Say goodbye to heavy bags and hello to stress-free travel with Bounce—your trusted luggage storage service in Bali, Indonesia.

So, if you’re planning a visit to Bali, don’t let your luggage weigh you down. Download the Bounce app today, and get ready for worry-free adventures in one of the world’s most enchanting destinations!


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Beauty

Seasonal Wellness and Allergies | Maple Holistics

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Introduction 

Springtime brings us endless blooms, warmer weather, new signs of life and tremendous shades of green as the trees begin to awake from their sleep. However, as beautiful as Spring can be, it also comes with its challenges. Allergies caused by pollen, pet dander and dust seem to become an overwhelming nuisance and these seasonal changes can often interfere with our skin and overall wellness. That said, you can always find light at the end of the tunnel by using a few hacks and making simple routine changes that make a world of difference as we transition into the warmer months.

How To Sniff Out The Problem 

We often mistake allergies for the flu.

As we come out of Winter, it can be easy to mistake your sniffles and sneezes as the beginning stages of a cold or flu, but often the real issue at hand is caused by allergies. The common symptoms of allergies usually include watery eyes, a runny nose and an itchy sneeze that never seems to go away. Being able to tell the difference between allergies and a flu can make a huge impact on your overall wellness and comfort, and here’s exactly how you can do just that. 

1. Understanding your allergies

Like most issues in life, there is often a root cause behind them, and allergies are no different. Typically, allergies are your body’s response to harmless substances such as pollen, dust and mold, all of which commonly occur during the Spring. Everybody’s body is their own, and people have different triggers which impacts the way their body reacts to these substances. This is why it’s important to understand your triggers in order to avoid any unwanted sniffles and irritation. 

2. Allergy vs. Cold: Spotting the Difference

Although allergies and colds manifest with similar symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose and congestion, it’s generally quite easy to tell them apart. The easiest way to spot the difference is by looking at the timeline. If your symptoms last longer than a week, then it’s most likely allergies that are plaguing your wellness. An allergic reaction is usually accompanied by sneezing and itchy eyes, but minus the fever, lethargy and body aches that are attached to the common cold or flu. 

3. Common Allergy Triggers

Certain nuts can trigger allergies.

As we mentioned before, the biggest culprits responsible for those nasty allergies are pollen, pet dander, mold and dust. They have a negative effect on your wellness and so an allergic reaction is your body’s way of staving off these substances. Certain foods such as nuts, eggs, and shellfish may also trigger allergic reactions. Performing a simple blood test through your healthcare provider can help you find out if you have any allergies, and also help you to understand your triggers and avoid them wherever possible. 

The Power of Prevention

Now that we’ve determined that getting to know your specific triggers and allergies is the best way to beat your allergies, it can also be helpful to know that prevention is better than treatment when it comes to your allergies. 

1. How to Allergy-Proof Your Home

Preventing the onset of allergies starts in your home, where you’re likely to spend a lot of your time. The air that you’re breathing can have a huge impact on your wellness, so clearing the air in your home is a great place to start. You can make a small investment in an air purifier which helps to trap dust and pollen or make use of plants with air-purifying properties such as snakeplants, lilly flax or spekboom potplants. In addition to clearing the air, keep the windows closed during windy days, regularly wash your bedding in hot water to eliminate dust mites and use an allergy-proof pillowcase to avoid triggering an influx of the sniffles. 

2. Nutrition and Lifestyle Hacks

Healthy food, healthy body.

Your diet plays a huge role in your wellness, skin health and it also affects your body’s ability to fight off allergies. This is why it’s important to eat plenty of foods that are rich in antioxidants. Leafy greens, berries, wholegrains, nuts, seeds and vegetables are all types of food that can give your body an antioxidant boost from within. Furthermore, drinking an appropriate amount of water everyday makes a big difference, and staying clear of processed, oily and fatty foods are amazing, yet simple lifestyle hacks that can improve your overall wellness. 

3. Staying Ahead of Allergy Season

They say that those who fail to plan, plan to fail, and the same can be said for allergy season. We know that prevention is the best form of medicine, and so preparing for allergy season can help you fight off your symptoms before they even arrive. To manage allergies, it’s important to avoid known triggers when possible, use medications like antihistamines and nasal sprays, and keep living spaces clean to reduce exposure to allergens. In some cases, allergy shots may be recommended to help improve your wellness.

Kitchen Cabinet Cures

If you missed the prevention stage, and you’re playing catchup with your allergies and seasonal wellness, fear not, because there are many items and treatments you can use, which may already be in your home. Many common ingredients, like honey, turmeric, and apple cider vinegar, have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties that can help reduce your symptoms.

1. Keep The Sniffles At Bay With Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful home remedy that can be used for a number of things, including your overall wellness, skincare and allergic reactions. When it comes to allergies, the water vapor created from adding apple cider vinegar to boiling water can be especially beneficial. Inhaling the vapor can help remove mucus and clear out your nasal passages. While this doesn’t completely cure your allergies, it certainly makes breathing a little easier. 

2. A Spoonful of Honey The Sniffles Away 

Ancient cultures have been using honey as a natural remedy long before modern humans, and still today it can play a huge role in your wellness routine. Honey, potentially has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A spoonful of honey a day can help you build up a tolerance towards pollen, however the best way to do this is to start in the winter before spring and its multitude of pollen arrives. Finally, honey can also be helpful in clearing the throat and nasal passages. 

3. Spice Away The Sneeze – Turmeric tea 

Much like honey, turmeric is a powerful natural remedy that humans have used for centuries. You can easily add it to your diet as a spice, or boost your seasonal wellness by drinking it as a tea. It can help reduce symptoms of a sore throat, water eyes and help to clear congestion. Spice away your sneeze with turmeric and help keep your body balanced and your allergies at bay. 

Essential Oils for Easy Breathing 

Essential oils can be a potent weapon in your arsenal when fighting off seasonal allergies. They are derived from natural substances like leaves, twigs and the flowers of certain plants. Certain essential oils can help make breathing through allergies more comfortable as well as having the added benefit of aiding in soothing your senses. 

1. Peppermint Essential Oil 

Not only is peppermint essential oil known for its cooling, soothing effects, but it also can help clear congestion and make breathing more comfortable. Adding a few drops of this oil to your diffuser can help to ease your sinuses and clear your air passages. Many people also use it topically, first diluting it with an appropriate carrier oil and then applying it directly to the chest area in order to open up your airways more effectively. 

2. Lavender Essential Oil 

Lavender.

Calm your allergies with lavender.

Lavender essential oil is popular for its calming, floral fragrance and is a staple amongst aromatherapy enthusiasts. However, it can also be used for enhancing your overall wellness routines, thanks to its medicinal properties.  Inhaling lavender oil can reduce sneezing, congestion, and other allergy symptoms. The best way to use it for fighting off allergies is to diffuse lavender in your bedroom for a peaceful night’s sleep, free from bothersome symptoms. 

3. Eucalyptus Essential Oil 

Eucalyptus essential oil has long been considered as a natural remedy for respiratory issues and it’s because of that that it can be used in the fight against allergies. It has a woody, herbaceous scent and helps open the airways and reduce mucus buildup. When diffused or used in a steam inhalation, eucalyptus oil can provide relief from allergy-related congestion, allowing you to breathe easier. 

Conclusion

As we make the shift out of winter and the spring blooms become more abundant, allergies can become an irritating side effect on our wellness. However, by recognizing your triggers and incorporating preventative measures, along with natural remedies from your kitchen and essential oils, you can significantly reduce the impact of allergies on your daily life. Remember, prevention is always the best strategy, but there are plenty of ways to ease symptoms if they do arise. So, embrace the beauty of Spring without the discomfort of seasonal allergies, and let your body thrive with the right care and attention.




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