Gulla Jónsdóttir's Los Angeles Hotlist

Here, interior designer and architect Gulla Jónsdóttir shares her favorite Los Angeles hotspots..

Way to spend a day alone? 

I wake up early and walk on the beach barefoot in the sand and after that go to a beautiful spa 

Best cocktail spot? 

The Ponte 

Breakfast?

The café at Fred Segal

Brunch?

Bel air hotel ~ Wolfgang puck restaurant 

Dinner?

I adore dinning at Tower Bar 

Museum?

Can’t beat a trip to the Getty Center 

Gallery?

Forever and always Hauser and Wirth Los Angeles

Artist?

Retna

Hotel?

La Peer Hotel which I designed

Beach?

Malibu

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Read our interview with Gulla here

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What Is.. The Class by Taryn Toomey

If you’re looking to feel alllll the feels, The Class by Taryn Toomey is the ultimate life changing workout for your mind + body. The Class, as created by fitness + well-being genius Taryn Toomey, is a unique physical experience that engages the mind like none other while working to build a long, strong, lean + toned physique. Through a simple collection of repeated calisthenics + plyometrics movement series you can expect to challenge your body’s ability to move like it never has before while also seizing the opportunity to engage your mind, capturing the relationship between mind + body in all it’s previously undiscovered glory. Understanding The Class can honestly + truly only be comprehended in hind sight or upon the momentary experiencing of it; upon completion you realise you’ve just been taken through something quite ethereal + are left with a newly grasped interpretation of all that can be tapped into through the beauty of movement. It’s an emotional journey + some, including myself, claim it holds a somewhat profound healing experience; intruth, for me, it helps me release trauma that’s been stagnant. It’s about total embodiment + for those who struggle with body-image or a lack of love for the body you’re in, the energy of this class in one way or another begins a new journey in self-confidence + an appreciation for your body that you’d never even allowed yourself deem possible. From the music to the instructors, the environment + the level of consciousness it gives, The Class by Tayrn Toomey is all the vibes in my world! With a physical location in New York City (another is opening this summer in LA) + a digital portal online you can check out what you didn’t know you needed in your life + check into a class at theclass.com

Designer Spotlight; Christopher John Rogers

This year the young designer to join an elite legacy that includes the likes of Alexander Wang & Proenza Schouler is the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund’s 2019 winner, Christopher John Rogers. Helping to launch the careers of many super talented designers over the last 16 years, the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund is a sure sign that Rogers is about to see his career in fashion jump into full throttle and we’re set to be seeing a lot more of him in the years to come.

The budding designer, born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 1994, now bases himself in Brooklyn, close to the fashion lime-light of New York’s well established elite. Growing up a Southern Baptist, his Grandmother had a huge influence on him and the way he understood the magic of dressing up. His love of fashion was evidently well established prior to his move to New York; he cleverly taught himself how to sew via tutorials on Youtube and carefully studied every word big designers, who he considers creative heroes, like John Galliano and McQueen would say in backstage interviews after their runway shows. After high school he went on to study at fashion at Savannah College of Art and Design before relocating to New York City. 

He has spoken about the realities of a young designer trying to catch their break in the fashion world and the innate difficulty it entails when you don’t “come from money”. Of his experience, Rogers says “Oh gag. So I actually have no money. I don’t have backers, I have a full-time job as a designer at Diane Von Furstenberg, and I take that money and I buy fabric I can afford and I try to turn the party.” However his diligent and industrious determination seems to be working, beautifully, for in 2017 he dressed Cardi B for the 2017 BET Hip Hop Awards, SZA wore his designs in the Black Panther soundtrack’s “All the Stars” video and in that same year Tracee Ellis Ross donned a look from his SS19 collection. Just a year later he showed his first full NYFW show in September 2018 at the age of 23.

So in a whirlwind and short career to date, he has quickly established himself a firm favourite and someone the industries leaders are watching very closely, not to mention as a creator of avant-garde evening wear that, in all it’s excessive beauty, is something of a magical spectacle. His belief that there’s “nothing wrong in effortful dressing” beams through in his designs and he creates with a mindset that allows women feel seen and heard. A look by Rogers is always big, bold and ravishingly engaging. He recently received a well-deserved standing ovation for his SS20 NYFW runway presentation and in the audience to support him were some of the industries top designers and influential figureheads including his former boss Diane von Furstenberg, Kerby Jean-Raymond of Pyer Moss, Alejandra Alonso Rojas, Adam Selman and Joseph Altuzarra. Self-proclaimed lovers of Rogers creations who have publicly worn his designs include celebrities from Michelle Obama and Rihanna to Lizzo, Ashley Graham and Kat Graham. 

With the help of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund’s financial prize of $400,000 and a year of invaluable mentorship from top industry insiders, ahead of him alongside his innate and towering talent, we’re absolutely sure Rogers is here for the long haul. 

Follow Christopher John Rogers on Instagram

*Unmissable* : Black Friday; Here's the Deal(s)

OK.. it’s that time of year again. When the world goes cray cray and we overspend on things we don’t need ($50.9 BILLION was spent this time last year in just a 4 day weekend period). Things that we’ll ‘fit into one day' but need right now cause we think it’s a great idea to have things that don’t fit just because they were good value or things that we just add to our basket because well, sure it’s only $500 and it’s usually $2,000. Yes you got it, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the 4 day period of online and in store sales that was once very much exclusively an American thing but has, in recent years, firmly made it’s way across the pond and into the psyche’s of pretty much everyone with an online connection, even my boyfriend who, when it comes to shopping, thinks it’s thee most torturous thing that life has bestowed upon us.. and i’m not talking luxuriating it up in Dover Street Market, just a quick visit to the local Waitrose for milk, even heeeee knows about it. Anyway, the thing to remember with sales is, it’s only worth it if you NEED it in your life - and ok there are blurred lines here between must have, need, and simply just CAN’T COPE WITHOUT IT, I know I know. Sales are an important time to plan and prep around and be aware of your own (and your bank account’s) limits and making sure to not let your hearts desires run wild and free. It’s not good value just because it’s on sale, trust me. And so with that in mind, here are HSF’s favourite sales to loose your sh*t over.

L A R S S O N & J E N N I N G S

The perfect gift for someone you love this holiday season is a fashion watch from this gorgeous London - Stockholm inspired brand that has taken on the quality of a luxury watch and brought it together with the chic designs of the classics and brought the prices down to temptingly dangerous lows.

30% off ALL watches

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I N C H 2

Leather goods with a little something extra, Inch2 is a beautiful young European brand specialising in quality leather pieces, focusing on shoes, boots and bags, to bring to life a perfect mix of masculine energy and feminine elegance. Their hero product, the leather brogue boots, are on sale for £184 down from £295.

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S P A C E N K

Nothing more to say than: We’ll take EVERYTHING please. Space NK has your every beauty need when it comes to cool, luxury and sometimes off the beaten track beauty brands to revamp your beauty shelves and bring a whole new glow to your skincare and makeup routine.

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M O N I C A V I N A D E R

Beautiful, elegant and super on trend, Monica Vinader is one of my go-to jewellery brands, that while not compromising on quality and design, doesn’t totally break the bank. Love this brand. ]

Shop 30% off and daily updated deals.

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C H I M I E Y E W E A R

Celine but make it half price. This young sunglasses brand is the BOMB. I love it. From big beautiful Jackie O styles to small and sleek Danielle Bernstein trendy pieces, you’re bound to find something to spice up your winter glasses wardrobe.

Shop with up to 50% off.

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C U L T B E A U T Y

We all know and love this beauty destination for your well known high-street and luxury brands’ cult products and the cult following they’re rightly created.

Shop with up to 40% off.

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D E A R F R A N C E S

Designed to last, a purchase with Dear Frances is something of a worthy investment in investment pieces. Luxury quality boots, flats, sandals, loafers and heels.. this brand is ethical in it’s productions and definitely worth a sneaky look at the very very least.

Shop 25% off site wide with the code BF25

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S O R U J E W E L L E R Y

Soru Jewellery is every jewellery lovers dream. Full of fabulous, elaborate yet super chic and elegant costume jewels, the brand is the perfect place to find that piece to make a pretty powerful statement no matter what you’re wearing. Adore adore adore.

Shop the entire collection with 30% off.

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S L E E P E R

When you’re a PJ’s girl like me you can’t not have a pair of these gorgeous night-out pyjamas. The brand is also known for their beautiful summer dresses that can be worn as a nightgown or out out and sales like this one are ABSOLUTELY worth falling for. Trust me, I’ve worn my pyjamas with feathered hems to weddings, birthday parties and dinner. Fab.u.lous.

For a full week shop 30% off all black items and up to 50% off on selected items.

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V I O L E T G R E Y

My absolute FAVORITE beauty store, this stunning destination is a heavenly take on what’s HOT for your beauty cabinet. Unfortunately they only ship within the US.

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A M B R E Y E W E A R

One of the best purchases of my year thus far has got to be these blue-light-blocking glasses that help those protect your sight when working long hours staring at a screen. The brand aims to bring quality back to our lives through their amazing lens technology and whether you wear prescription lens or not, you can totally wear Ambr Eyewear pieces.

Sign up HERE to avail of their buy 1 get 1 free Black Friday deal.

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A S T R I D & M I Y U

Costume jewellery at it’s coolest, Astrid & Miyu is the ultimate girls haven for all those cutesy little trinkets. Their ear cuffs are out of this world chic and it’s all made to be layered and worn however you wish, no rules, just fun and fabulous.

Shop 25% off the entire site, no code needed.

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W E S T 2 2

West 22 is a top secret fashionistas paradise. With dupe versions of the Bottega’s, in full leather, cute cashmere beanies, the prettiest hair accessories and endless fashion finds that add the perfect touch of fabulous to any outfit, this website is one of my favourites to get a stylish fix.

Shop with 25% off the entire website, till 11.59pm GMT Sunday.

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D U C I E L O N D O N

Everyday luxury is what Ducie does and damn do they do it right. Teddy coats, winter boots, amazing outerwear pieces and cute-find shoes and accessories, a click into Ducie is dangerously tempting and oh so naughtily the absolute right thing to do.

Shop with 25% off everything excluding sale items and the Kendall boots. Use code BLKFRI1925

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7 Online At Home Workouts

Sometimes going to a gym and getting sweaty with strangers just isn’t what feels good. Whether it’s that you’re kind of shy or simply just too busy to get your butt there, if you like to get your heart rate up and move your body, there’s never an excuse to not find time for exercise in your day and life with this list of at-home workout plans.

L O U I S A D R A K E M E T H O D

Louisa Drake is London’s hottest exercise goddess. Focusing on a very a unique fusion style of working out that combines her expertise as a professional dancer + choreographer with her incredible knowledge of the body + how to make movement fun + effective, Louisa’s personalised method brings you on a shape-changing journey, resulting in longer, leaner lines + a strengthen body tone. Having travelled the world working with celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow + Victoria Beckham, in 2017 Louisa set out to create her own method, opening her very own studio in London + it’s HOT AF. Incorporating resistance, conditioning, cardio + stretching, LDM is available online with videos to buy that you can enjoy on repeat or live classes to attend via Zoom. LDM is a complete non-negotiable, just give it a try!

louisadrake.com

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M E L I S S A W O O D H E A L T H

Melissa Wood-Tepperberg is a Mom, wellness coach, avid meditator, certified yoga and pilates teacher and plant-based eater, working to shift the way we live and help her fans thrive from the inside out. The former model’s goal is to help you find your best self through movement methods, intuitive eating and mindful meditation. Her method is a monthly subscription with membership including 12 workouts available at all times, exclusive workouts published every Monday by Melissa herself and bonus flows and guided meditations throughout the month. Her upbeat personality and infectiously positive attitude is completely contagious and she is the perfect workout companion whether you’re at home or on the road. Get a 5 day free trial before committing - but trust me, you won’t be able to give it up. 

melissawoodhealth.com

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L E S M I L L S

If you’ve been to a Les Mills class you’ll know what I mean, these workouts mean bin.ness. And Les Mills On Demand is no different and just as kick-ass. With membership you obtain access to over 800 online workouts, creating a plan to suit your overall goals. As a member you also gain access to the Les Mills online global fitness community to help you stay motivated and accountable. New workouts are published each week with none ever expiring. Train your way with Les Mills, no matter where in the world you are. Try it out before fully committing for a free 10 day trial. 

lesmills.com

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P. V O L V E

From your own custom dashboard, you can plan and track your progress with P.volve. From there P.vole is all about making sure your form is working for you. With form being everything, P.volve teaches you exactly how to do every movement correctly to reduce pain or injury and of course bring to life the results you are aiming for even faster. Choose from over 150 workouts with more being added every week - all accessible online or the P.volve app. Also, with access to a motivating private Facebook community group and discounts on P.volve equipment, if you’re looking for great results and something a little different, try this amazing new addition to the at-home workout sphere. 

pvolve.com

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G L O Y O G A

Glo is perhaps one of the only, if not the sole, online based yoga classes that equals the feeling of being at an in-person class. It’s fabulous yoga at it’s best.. and on the familiarity of your own mat in the comfort of your own home. Whether you access it through online or the app, it’s staggering how many types and the volume of classes available. With many famous yoga teachers accessible on the platform too you can literally find anything you want. The classes are honestly endless, from duration to type to classes specifically focused on a particular pose like Crow or Chaturanga. Also, an enquire month of unlimited yoga on Glo costs less than a single yoga class in New York City at just $18/month. So go get your zen on with Glo.

glo.com

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T H E S H O N A V E R T U E M E T H O D

Shona Vertue found her fame by becoming the lady that helped David Beckham find his flexibility. Known for her amazing strength training, HIIT workouts and yoga flows, Shona Vertue created her Vertue Method to help you find the strength in your yoga and the flexibility in your weights training. She incorporates all aspects of health and wellness in her plans and if you follow her on Instagram, you’ll find all her top tips for finding your flow and creating the healthy body you’ve always dreamed of. 

shonavertue.com

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S W E A T

Made famous by creator and fitness industry disruptor, Kayla Itsines, SWEAT is the ultimate quick and effective sweat session for those who are ‘busy busy’ but still need to get that heart rate going and feel like motivated to workout everyday - even on your off days. Created by females; Kayla has on-boarded some of the top female personal trainers in the world so that you can find exactly what you’re looking for in a PT, it’s the perfect all female community to help you feel at home in your body. With weekly fitness goals and plans (including days off) and weekly meal plans and shopping lists, SWEAT is a monthly subscription plan that is totally worth the $19.99 fee. 

sweat.com

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Edelle Kenny's New York City Hotlist

Edelle Kenny is an Irish, New York City based photographer, videographer and freelance TV producer. She has worked on major global campaigns, shooting top models and influencers, not to mention her work as a producer with the Discovery Channel. Edelle’s work is a beautiful mix of sultry and sexy with a depth of meaning very distinctive to her style. She lives and works in Manhattan.

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Favourite way to spend a day to yourself?

Wake up early. A run along the east river. Then, scoot to Williamsburg and get a take out breakfast and sit in Domino park. Followed by a trip back into Manhattan to spend hours, walking around aimlessly soaking in the ample culture that New York has to offer. with a disposable camera in hand.  Also on a more practical note, I’d probably find an hour to go to Trader Joes and do a food shop mid day while there are no lines. It’s not all dreamy folks. 

Favourite breakfast?

My favourite breakfast is disappointingly oats, in my own apartment. I recently just got my own lease on my first Manhattan apartment, which is a big deal for freelancer, and my kitchen thankfully overlooks not one but two of the beautiful community artists gardens in the East Village. It’s a rare sight of green in the city. 

Favourite brunch?

My Favourite brunch is Cafe Collet in Williamsburg. It’s an aesthetically well thought out cafe with impeccable food. Everything on the menu is delicious and get the dark chocolate toast for the table. 

Favourite dinner?

My favourite dinner is a hard choice! For an intimate group or one on one with a friend I’ve been going Hanoi House on St Marks. At times there’s a wait time of over an hour, but I’ve never been disappointed. 

Favourite cocktail spot?

Apotheke in China town. I’ve been here a few times over the last year and I really like it as a treat. It’s good cocktails, atmosphere and amazing music.

Favourite hotel?

My favourite hotel is the Whyte hotel or the William Vale in Williamsburg. I recently spent the evening in September with a friend and her family who were staying in a water facing room. Wine, the sun setting over manhattan and friends that feel like family is the best feeling. 

Favourite night out?

Honestly, anything and anywhere intimate with my closest friends. a dinner followed by a few drinks and good conversation. 

Favourite hidden gem?

Roosevelt Island is a small island on the east of Manhattan. There’s not a lot going on there, but bring a picnic and a concealed bottle of wine in the summer evenings, sit in the Four Freedoms Park and watch the sunset over Manhattan. It’s also the most amazing place during cherry blossom season. 

Favourite exercise class?

My favourite exercise class is Rumble or GRIT boxing. Sometimes you just got to punch it out. I don’t need to say more.

Favourite weekend escape?

My favourite weekend escape is The Rockaways in Queens. It’s a strip of beach in Queens that seems like a little island of it’s own! It’s about 1.5 hour cycle from the city or you can get a ferry out there. I’ve regularly seen schools of dolphins and whales from the shore. It’s a really quick fix when you need to escape the madness of Manhattan. 

Favourite boutique?

Awoke Vinatge. Without a doubt. My 2019 new years resolution was to be more eco-friendly so Awoke is the perfect match between a little luxury and second hand. 

Favourite artist?

Nadia Lee Cohen and AlexPrager. Neither of them have the same aesthetic style as me but I find both of them captivating. 

Favourite museum?

Museum of Moving Image! Its small and seems specialised but it’s so interesting. I have been to the Jim Henson exhibition twice and if you watched the muppets as a child, it’s a must. 

Image Edelle Kenny

Designer Spotlight; Eudon Choi

Born and raised in Seoul, Eudon Choi is one of fashion’s hottest young designers right now. The London based womenswear designer originally studied and worked in menswear in his home city in Korea before moving to London where he attained his MA in womenswear in 2006 from the Royal College of Art. Sitting somewhere chic between designer and contemporary the outrageously talented designer creates exquisitely tailored pieces that have won the hearts of fashionistas the world over.  

So notably talented for the get-go, Choi was offered a job with All Saints a year before graduating, with the company holding a job for him as a Senior Designer upon completing his course. In the meantime his final collection was swooped up by one of the industries most prestigious stockists, Dover Street Market, which for any designer stands as a mark of reaching the top - which for Choi was a mark set before he even began. Despite his ‘arrival’ as such, Choi decided to take the opportunity to hone his craft learning from others; taking a job at Twenty8Twelve. He worked as one of the brands Senior Designers white also playing a part in the the overall picture of the company, working with top casting directors and stylists during the brand’s London Fashion Week shows, all of which gave Choi a taste of what it’s like to put together a show. This experience proved all too valuable now that he is creating his own collections which he began doing in 2009 with his eponymous label Eudon Choi. 

For his collections, he cuts every pattern by hand and works very closely with his seamstresses on the process of each single garment, finalising each piece with any concluding tweaks. Describing his designs as ‘unique, understated and intellectual’, Choi is known for his in-depth knowledge of tailoring techniques and his flawless eye for detail. With a distinct emphasis placed in his origins of tailored detailing, he tends to draws upon the beauty at the crux of more masculine cuts, reworking them into his vision for his now predominately female customer base. 

Supported by the industry from the beginning, Choi has received many awards for his work. And deservedly so, including backing from the British Fashion Council and the Fashion Trust through the Fashion Trust Initiative.  

Classic but with a contemporary twist, he continues to develop his own aesthetics and evolve his signature style season on season. Its safe t say that investing in a piece of Choi for your wardrobe is likely to last a lifetime, marrying it’s way into your style like the most perfectly fitting glove. 

FOLLOW @eudonchoi // SHOP @ farfetch.com

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SHOP EUDON CHOI

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Image Credit vogue.com

5 Brands to Love this Fall

A N I N E B I N G

FOLLOW @aninebing // SHOP aninebing.com

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S L E E P E R

FOLLOW @daily_sleeper // SHOP the-sleeper.com

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T O T Ê M E

FOLLOW @toteme // SHOP toteme-studio.com

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C H I M I

FOLLOW @chimieyewear // SHOP chimieyewear.com/en/

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B E V Z A

FOLLOW @bevza // SHOP bevza.com

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Image Credits 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

What Is.. FaceGym

Maybe you’re a spin enthusiast or a resistance-goddess, perhaps you love your morning run or sweating it out at Bikram? Whatever your chosen method of movement you understand and agree with the benefits in time spent working the body and a dedicated commitment to strengthening the muscles of our body; simply put it pays off to workout, right? Why then have we never connected such dedication to the face? Step forth FaceGym, the world’s first ever gym session for the face.

FaceGym was founded in 2016, by ex-beauty journalist Inge Theron who as a contributor for the Financial Times, documented her search for the next big thing in beauty in her column ‘Chronicles of a Spa Junkie”. Over a 3 year period she visited 57 spas, tried 25 anti-ageing treatments, tolerated 15 detoxes and sweated her way through 32 different types of movement classes. In her extreme search she underwent a face-lift procedure that left her house-bound due to complications and with a new outlook on skincare and the search for what works, she wondered if perhaps there was a less invasive was of ageing gracefully?

FaceGym is her resulting creation, the fruits of a two-year study that saw her travel the world to work with fitness experts, doctors, gurus and facialists. It’s a non-invasive facial workout requiring no knives, needles or recovery time; just 45 - 60 minutes in the hands of one of the company’s expert trainers. Exercising the face works to increase the blood circulation (allowing oxygen and nourishment to reach skin cells) and develop the 43 muscles in the face, making the shape of the face more full and defined. The ‘training’ part of the workout varies depending on the outcome you desire, so whether it’s a lifted look, tightening, detox, de-puffing or sculpting there is a varying custom-created workout. However the overall aim of a session at FaceGym is to stimulate the muscles, bringing back the skin’s natural elasticity and promoting collagen production. 

With similar steps to a body workout, the trainer will take you through the warm up, cardio, sculpting, and cool down stages of the workout. Using high energy kneading movements, a carefully selected selection of high-quality products from around the globe alongside optional vitamin boosters, a jade gua sha tool, a yoga ball and an electrical muscle stimulator (EMS), a session at FaceGym leaves your skin looks instantly tighter and brighter with your face visibly more sculpted. Fresh skin, the natural way, what’s not to love?

Available in London, Manchester, New York & coming soon to Los Angeles // Book your workout here // Workouts cost bewteen £50 and £225 or $70 and $270

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SHOP FACEGYM APPROVED PRODCUTS

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Who Is.. Mr. Pearl

With his 18 inch trained waistline, Mark Erskine-Pullin famously known as Mr. Pearl is something of a 21st century genius and a mysterious father figure in the fashion world. It is not just his commitment to his beloved craft as a corsetier - he wears a corset 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (relieving himself of the garments only to bath) - that he really skyrocketed to fame but rather the fact that he is arguably the most iconic, talented and sought-after corset maker in existence. 

Born in South Africa in 1962, he grew up in a working class family and lived a modest life there with his father Neil, an English toolmaker and his half-English, half-Dutch mother Yvette. Upon their divorce however, he was sent to live with his grandparents Hetty and Ruben Searle. Falling in love with corsets and the art of waist training at a young age, his fascination was encouraged living with his Grandmother, where he would lace her into her corsets upon her request and, loving every minute of it, so his journey into the fashion world was born. Feeling under much pressure to conform, Pullin married a South African actress but later ended it before moving to London, where he found his freedom. He worked as a dresser and costume designer for the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden by day and by night he was a regular nightclub attendee and performer - going under his alter ego “Pearl”; it was later that Isabella Blow named him “Mr. Pearl”, which has stuck ever since. 

After a stint working under the legendary performance artist, fashion designer and club promoter, Leigh Bowery, Pullin moved to Paris to pursue his career as a corsetier after meeting designer Thierry Mugler at the Love Ball in New York City. Paris has become his home and there he works on a made-to-order basis for private clients only. Marking a history of controversy, the corset is often seen as a symbol of female oppression, yet to the contrary a sign of sexuality, power and the pursuit of pleasure. For Pullin it is a form of self-discipline and of his work he says, “it is not about being fashionable. I do not follow fashion at all. I’m interested in an ideal, a kind of expression of elegance, which really has nothing to do with fashion”.

From conception to materialisation, a Mr. Pearl piece can take months of hard work and craftsmanship. Mr. Pearl has produced creations for designers such as Chloe, John Galliano, Thierry Mugler, Jean Paul Gaultier, Alexander McQueen, Christian Lacroix and Antonio Berardi, while celebrities like Kylie Minogue, Jerry Hall, Sophie Dahl, Victoria Beckham, Kim Kardashian not forgetting his long-term collaborator Dita Von Teese have been known to wear his designs. 

In a time when fashion is fast and seasons are multiplying, there’s something nurturing in the fact that Mr. Pearl’s work will always take time. His dedication to the art sees him refuse to use any form of modern technology in the making of his famously extravagant and opulent inventions. And so it stands that if you’re in the market for one of the world’s most iconic corsets, Paris is calling.

Designer Spotlight; Sophie Buhai

It’s not always easy to follow your heart but taking the lead from Sophie Buhai, self-reinvention seems all too easily attainable, not to mention rather stylish. 

Leading the way as the ultimate example of originality, Sophie Buhai is firmly back in her native LA lifestyle, having left her life in NYC and selling her stake in Vena Cava, the clothing line she co-founded and designed with her friend Lisa Mayock, straight out of Parsons. With 10 years experience in the industry, not to mention a manic New York City paced career in the rearview, she took a year out to develop other passions. During that time, Sophie thoughtfully designed her newly purchased home which led to her organic movement into an interiors role - a role she still holds today, designing for fashion insiders. However, it was in 2015 that she truly found her feet, launching her namesake jewellery brand, Sophie Buhai. Housed on her website, alongside a wide variety of life-style findings she has discovered along the way, including a Natalie Smith painting, Mark Pavlovits homeware and an Elsa Peretti terracotta vase, her designs and collections have been received with significant regard. Known now for her beautifully bold yet powerfully delicate modernist pieces, Sophie continues to reinvent the world of sculptural silhouettes, bringing to life her take on modern classics.

Shop the collection now at Net-A-Porter.com

Image Credits 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9

Jewellery Brands To Fall in Love With

Dainty jewels are always a good idea. And as we come to the end of January, not to mention the end of those January blues there’s absolutely every excuse to treat yourself to a little self-gifting of some pretty little treasures. In a follow up edition to my new “Considered Curation” series, a new venture in which I share the brands, people and places I love, today it’s all about decorating yourself and those you love with something beautiful from local and international designers who have built something that simply must be shared and worn.

So darlings, get in, we’re going shopping!

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SORU JEWELLERY

Soru is a UK based jewellery brand that has brought all my jewellery dreams to life. Soru, meaning sisters in Sicilian, was aptly created and curated by two half English-Sicilian sisters Francesca Kelly and Marianna Doyle in 2013. Full of ornate flair and made for the every-day wearer, carrying her to those every-night occasions, each Soru creation is ethically handmade in Italy or Turkey using gold plated sterling silver, set to precious metals and semi precious gemstones. Francesca and Marianna’s story is a gorgeous one and their philosophy, that jewellery should complete a look and make you feel transformed, is part of the brand’s elegant aesthetic. To say I’m in love would be an understatement.

FOLLOW @sorujewellery // SHOP harveynichols.com

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BEATRIZ PALAOIS

Founded in Madrid in 2011 by Beatriz Palacios Jiménez, Beatriz Palacios, is an elegant mix of feminine strength and unconventional sophistication. After graduating as a mining engineer, Beatriz worked as a jewellery designer in Dublin before moving back to her hometown of Madrid to embark upon her own creative journey with her now well-established brand. With a strong insistence on quality and craftsmanship, each season sees a newly developed collection originating from the depts of her innate sense of playful experimentation with new forms and previously unused materials.

FOLLOW @beatrizpalaois_jewelry // SHOP beatrizpalacios.com

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LEAH ALEXANDRA

Creating the pieces that can’t be found anywhere else, Leah Alexandra, knows exactly what we need in to create the most beautifully adorned jewellery wardrobe. Having spent time as a metalsmith, Leah now marries her love of creation by traveling the world to source the most unique, beautiful materials which play part in the distinctive nature of all her designs. Versatile and timeless, investing in a Leah Alexandra piece will never loose it’s charm.

FOLLOW @leahalexandrajewelry // SHOP leahalexandra.com

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MOMUSE

Delicate by nature and simply irresistible, MoMuse Jewellery is a stunning collection of contemporary jewellery pieces designed by Irish native Margaret O’Rourke. Margaret has seen herself go from selling her designs at weekend markets to being recommended by the New York Times as one of the most coveted shops to visit in Dublin (don’t miss her haven, MoMuse in the Powerscourt Townhouse in Dublin’s city centre). Classic and unapologetically simple, her designs are a clear vision of her own beautiful way of seeing the world and have made their way into the lives and wardrobes of many in all their elegantly understated glory. Expect diamonds in white, champagne and black as well as emeralds, sapphires & rubies set to the backdrop of 9 karat gold metals.

FOLLOW @momusejewellery // SHOP momuse.ie

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MEJURI

Setting the ethical standards high, Mujuri is an everyday touch of luxury at dangerously seductive prices. Working to make luxury so affordable, this beautiful brand teams up with their manufacturers to sell directly to their consumer, meaning they get to create using top quality materials and craftsmanship without the mainstream markups. Each piece is inspired by the idea of quality essentials being a fun and fabulous part of your everyday looks.

FOLLOW @mujuri // SHOP mejuri.com

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Image Credits 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

Spritz Up Your Life

Scent is an important part of one’s identity. Unlike the clothes we wear and the manner in which we act - both of which are only linkable to a physical interaction, the scent a person wears is a beautiful, delicate impression that lingers and lives on long past the time spent in their company. It can also ignite memories- sometimes in the most unassuming and unexpected places, reminding you of them from a far. Frangrance is sexy. In a way, so sneakily suggestive, you don’t even need to see or feel the person to know it’s theirs.

It’s important to really know what you want and love when it comes to fragrances, to find something sexily unidentifiable yet distinctly all encompassing. I’m a believer in building out a wardrobe of scents, ones for different situations in life; the one you wear during the day and then a special one for nighttime only. Ones for summer and others for winter. Our senses change all the time, be it due to seasonal changes or situational ones. Really it’s all about moods, the mood you’re in or the one you want to project and a scent always helps create that.

In an age where brands bang out a million products and cover every imaginable genre of commodities, it’s an understatement to say how much I love a good niche perfume brand! My all time favourite is ROADS, an Irish brand that has gone super global. They focus on incredible, multi-layered scents which take a year to create from the birth of idea to the end product and the luxuriousness of each scent transport you into the person you want to be while wearing it. Here, we take a look at some of my favourite luxury perfume brands and a personal favourite in each one..

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ROADS

Unsaid Eau de Parfum 50ml

£95

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BYREDO

Bal D'Afrique Eau de Parfum - Neroli & Cedar Wood, 50ml

€98

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Maison Margiela Replica

Beach Walk Eau de Toilette 100ml

€112.80

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LE LABO

Santal 33 - Eau de Parfum, 50ml

€152

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FREDERIC MALLE

L'Eau D'Hiver Eau De Parfum 100ml

€226

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ACQUA DI PARMA

Colonia Eau de Cologne Spray 100ml

£95

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DIPTYQUE PARIS

Philosykos Eau de Parfum 75ml

€125

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KILIAN

Good Girl Gone Bad Icon Eau de Parfum

€203.68

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Top Image via Pinterest

Stay at The London EDITION, Soho London

Primely situated on the edge of Soho and just a seven-minute walk from Oxford Circus, The London EDITION is a faultless blend of edgy elegance. The brainchild of American entrepreneur Ian Schrager, the once co-founder of Studio 54, it’s a bucket list London stay that doesn’t disappoint. 

Upon stepping inside, one is left somewhat open-mouthed at the splendour of the lobby. Swiftly captured by the sheer opulence, it’s a room within itself, doubling as a meeting space come day or night with it’s statement, low-lit bar and stylish seating area. A destination of sorts, the hotel conquers the quintessential magnificence of London with it’s social hub spirit. Whether staying the night or just spending a few hours hiding out from the hustle and bustle, the hotel’s selection of hangout spots is exceptional. Starting with bespoke cocktails at the Punch Room to the back of the building, followed by dinner at the now infamous Berners Tavern, a dining delight directed by famed Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton; while later winding down the evening back to the lobby bar for a night cap where the atmosphere sparkles with out-of-towners and locals alike.

Retiring to your room, guests are treated to a minimalist affair; one that lovers of contemporary interiors will really appreciate. Cosy in a chalet way, the rooms are a true escape; the perfect place to unwind. From loft to penthouse, each room captures the essence of old world London while being flawlessly à la mode. Wood panelled walls lend themselves to the perfect contrast of crisp whites and calming tones of modern luxuriousness, while an array of amenities make you feel right at home. 

The London Edition is a new generation of luxury with an attainable feel at the heart of exactly what makes London have that London feel. 

10 Berners Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3NP, England  //  020 7781 0000  // www.editionhotels.com

Images from The London EDITION

Online Stores HSF is Loving Right Now

Online browsing (ok who are we kidding, it’s full on shopping) is a dangerously addictive and highly enjoyable act. However small and no matter the price, if you’re like me and you much rather shopping online these days, my new series “Considered Curations” in which I will be sharing the brands I love to hit up is here to help you find your next wardrobe hit. With the excitement of your parcel arriving to the door and getting to try things on in the comfort of your own home, while also getting to test it out with other existing pieces and do the whole mix-and-match review (we all do it) and well, with the ease of online returns these days there is little left to say but this..

Get in darlings, we’re going shopping!

FRANKIE THE SHOP

Classic with a twist, Frankie the Shop is consistently a firm favourite. Authentically cool in pretty much everything they produce, it’s a perfectly inspired place to seek out your next ‘unfussy, minimal, wallet-conscious’ purchase. With locations in NYC and Paris their online store is a mixture of on-the-pulse designers and Pinterest worthy pieces.

FOLLOW @frankietheshop // SHOP frankietheshop.com

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LES HEROINES

Founded by Australian born fashion stylist Vanessa Cocchiaro, Les Heroines is a stunning creation focusing on occasion-wear and custom made designs for bridesmaids; taking care of your every wedding day dress dream; whether your looking for your bridesmaids or simply something fabulous to wear as a guest. Elegant and gracefully stylish, Cocchiaro designs for the abundance of shapes, ages, tastes and styles of women everywhere.

FOLLOW @lesheroinesofficial // SHOP lesheroines.com

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WITCHERY

From simple everyday essentials to tasteful one-off finds, Witchery covers your every need in terms of taking you from a casual look on your day off to the bright lights of a Saturday night out. With a focus on muted tones and a satisfactory balance between separates and one-piece buys, shopping on Witchery is exactly the place to add a little something different to your style story.

FOLLOW @witcheryfashion // SHOP witchery.com

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GU-DE

Gu-De, one of the hottest new kids on the block, is a luxury leather handbags brand that had just been picked up by Net-a-Porter. Timeless beauty and unique design dusted with delightful ladylike details are the foundations to this 70’s inspired handbag collection, brought to life by Seoul-based founder and designer, Ji Hye Koo.

FOLLOW @gu_de_official // SHOP gu-de-official.com

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A.EMERY

For those who shop summer in winter (cause let’s face it, whoever let the weather deter from a good shoe investment), A.Emery is an Australian shoe brand that is set to light your heart on fire. It’s minimalist modernism meets Ancient Greek and their core collections are something your wardrobe will forever thank you for.

FOLLOW @a.emery_ // SHOP aemery.com

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Image Credits 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

Designer Spot Light, Noha Raouf, Dallas

Born and raised in Egypt, Noha Raouf is a Dallas-based womenswear designer whose love of design stems way back to her early childhood when, by the age of five, she delved into the art of dress making under the mentorship of her grandmother. 

After attaining her BA in Mass Communication in Egypt, Raouf worked in the PR world for a number of years before moving to Dallas with her husband to pursue her love of design. She attended El Centro School of Design where upon graduating, her graduate collection earned her well-deserved recognition and the best fashion collection accolade. 

Having since launched her synonymous brand, the designer is focused on extraordinary textures, clean cuts and distinctive constructions. On her own personal direction and as the driving force behind the brand, she says, “NOHA RAOUF is specifically designed for the fiercely independent and the exceptionally original.” With both read-to-wear and demi-couture pieces available, the NOHA RAOUF brand is one of Dallas’s finest and is committed to bring character to women’s wardrobes while enhancing the individual character of her consumer.

Website noharaouf.com |  Location, Dallas, Texas  |  Graduation Year, 2017

All Images: Noha Raouf

At Home Loungewear, What To Wear

Over the past number of years we’ve seen loungewear completely come into its own. Stepping out of the house in your Olivia von Halle pyjama’s (accompanied by killer heels of course) seems altogether normal right? Not to mention, dressing up a comfy Zoe Jordan tracksuit for a Thursday night dinner date with your girls. Loungewear as daywear; well, it’s a thing that can’t be denied.

However what about the all original concept of loungewear. The kind you actually lounge around in at home. With the sizzle of summer well behind us, it’s no longer so hard to fathom the act of lounging again, now that the beauty of Fall days are creeping in. It’s all about getting cosy and igniting that hygge life again. Whether you work from home, simply don’t like wearing (quote unquote) real clothes or are planning a gorgeous snuggly night in - insert Netflix and chill - HSF has you covered for every lounge-worthy situation..

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River Island

Blue floral satin jacquard maxi kimono

€45

SHOP

Skin

Dakota Pima cotton-jersey jumpsuit

£135

SHOP

Love Stories

Cirque de la Nuit

June Bralette, €100 | Vicky Briefs, €50

SHOP

Emma Harris

Tamara Blue Mist Luxury Gown

€359

SHOP

River Island

Pink rib frill hem flared mix & match

Top, €40 | Trousers, €35

SHOP

Olivia von Halle

Lila Roba PJ Set

£395

SHOP

Jigsaw

Mila Stripe Jersey Pyjamas

£60

SHOP

Skin

Ribbed stretch-Pima cotton and modal-blend travel set

£295

SHOP

Oysho

Velvet fringe dressing gown

€49.99

SHOP

Yvonne Lin, Womenswear Designer

With an MA in design from the Royal college of Art and a BA in womenswear from Central Saint Martins, Yvonne Lin is a womenswear designer carving out her niche with an innate and intimate  understanding of the creative as an all-encompassing state of being.

Speaking through many forms of visual language, Lin incorporates her love of theatre, performance and the body into her mastery of the female form; within which each piece combines an element of powerful elegance with conscious modernism. Laster pattern cutting and structured coats meet billowing layers of dreamy draping and the contrast of heavy fabrics against exposed skin.

Through a compilation of accessories, footwear, installation art, stills and film, the Chinese-Canadian designer, who grew up in a small town in China, brings to life her empowered silhouettes while playing homage to both the feminine and masculine, honouring the delicate while acknowledging the indestructible. 

Her graduate collection, as pictured below, comes from her inspiration of the latin words Vulnus Cura which mean ‘to wound and to heal’ as she seeks to confront the human emotions that require us to mend the parts of us that have become fragmented and fractured. 

Minimal to the eye yet deeply meaningful in her approach, Lin continues to evolve through an array of multi-disciplinary processes and seeks to stay true to the confluence of contrasting cultures and realities that influence her everyday. 

 Website ylin.co.uk  |  Location, London  |  Graduation Year, 2017

PHOTOS: YVONNE LIN