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Stress Free Style

5 Fun Ways to Add a Personal Touch to Your Wardrobe | Style

  

Mixing things up in your wardrobe with pieces that show off your unique personality is a great confidence booster. Even with a few simple additions such as custom jewellery or handcrafted accessories, you can make a statement. Look for eye-catching second-hand or vintage pieces that represent your character. The more original your style, the more on-trend you’ll be this year, as in 2021, pretty much anything goes. Have fun mixing up your look for different occasions, and you’ll always be able to show your own style.

Here are five ways to add a personal touch to your wardrobe:

Custom jewellery

If you love collecting jewellery, layer pieces, such as necklaces or bracelets. Play around with textures and mix and match. Choose accessories you can easily customise yourself such as trollbeads. Each bead you add to your bracelet can represent something that’s important to you. You could also look out for fun accessories while you’re travelling so that each one your wear tells a story, and makes a great conversation piece.

Handmade accessories

Another way to add a unique touch to your look is with handcrafted bags and accessories. Research local and international designers and find one whose values align with yours. You can find artisans that only use sustainable materials to create one-off pieces, and they’re much more affordable than you might think. Handmade accessories are much more beautiful than ordinary high street options.

5 Fun Ways to Add a Personal Touch to Your Wardrobe

Vintage classics

Vintage classics will always be in style and you can find some really original pieces. There are plenty of vintage shops to browse online, so you don’t even need to leave your house. Here are some of the best online vintage clothing stores to give you an idea. Vintage clothing isn’t as expensive and inaccessible as it used to be. There’s a wide range available online and you can spend time looking for something that reflects your personality.

Upcycling

If you want to put your creative talents and flair to good use you could even refashion and upcycle your clothes. Alternatively, look for second-hand pieces in charity shops to re-purpose. If you’ve got the knack for throwing an outfit together, you can have a lot of fun up-cycling old clothes into a new look. You could even check out swap shops, or host a clothes swapping party for your friends. There’s no need to spend money to add a unique touch to your wardrobe.

Layering

Layering is about mixing and matching different styles and pieces. You can do this with your clothes and accessories. Throw a blazer over a brightly coloured top for a casual job interview style, or combine a floaty dress with boots and a leather jacket. Layer your jewellery by wearing bracelets of different weight and colours. There’s no right or wrong way to do it, just have fun creating your own look. The colder weather offers even more opportunities for you to layer up. With a few creative changes to your wardrobe, you can reflect your character and style.

Stress Free Style

The Perfect Job Interview Style To Make A Good Impression | Style

Cyntra, Cyntra Charlesworth, Hard decisions

Over the past few months, lots of you have sadly lost your jobs and gone looking for new ones. Thankfully, your luck has changed, and you have a few interviews lined up. Whether these are virtual or in-person, you have one burning question: how do you dress for a job interview?

It’s all about making a good impression, showing your personality and making the best first memory possible.

Here are a few style tips that can give you an extra boost and help you make an excellent first impression:

Keep it neutral

Do your research – find out what the company culture is like. Use their socials: Instagram/ Facebook/ LinkedIn to get an understanding of what the company culture and dress code is like. Last thing you want to do is turn up in a suit when the interviewee is in a t-shirt and jeans. 

Instead, keep things very neutral and use your personality, not your look, to make that first impression.

Be careful with your accessories

Accessories can make or break your job interview outfit. If you wear loads of jewellery and have lots of accessories, it doesn’t look too great. They can be too much of a distraction, causing the interviewer to have a negative view of you. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear any accessories at all!

A pair of simple earrings can look very classy and elegant, making you look like a boss. If you look at www.eyeglasses.com, you’ll find loads of glasses that can perfect your look! Glasses give off an aura of intelligence, instantly making you seem more professional. Even if you don’t need them to see, you can get some without prescription lenses to complete your look. I also think that a nice watch will create a fantastic impression and solidify yourself as someone that means business.

 The Perfect Job Interview Style To Make A Good Impression

Wear comfortable shoes

If you’ve got a virtual interview, you can ignore this tip. It’s only relevant if your lower body is on show! A lot of women will wear high heels to interviews as a way of commanding a dominant presence. There’s no denying that you look and feel like a badass when you’re in heels. It makes you seem more impressive, particularly as you look a bit taller. However, my counterpoint is that heels are very uncomfortable and hard to walk in. If you haven’t mastered the art of walking in heels, it could lead to some embarrassing moments. You don’t want to hobble around or walk really slowly while you’re in the interview building. The people might think you look a bit strange and overly nervous. As such, they dismiss you as someone that can’t handle pressure, so won’t be fit for the job. 

Opt for trousers over a dress/skirt

Dresses and skirts can be smart and professional when worn correctly. However, there’s something about trousers that just gives off professional vibes. So, when a you rock up in a suit, people will take notice.

It’s a power move that shows them you are a professional woman that’s here to be taken seriously. These days, you can get some gorgeous fitted trousers and blazers that will hug your figure while still being appropriate for an interview. Don’t feel you have to look frumpy or be ill-fitted – there is something so chic about introducing this look into your style.

The Perfect Job Interview Style To Make A Good Impression

Wear a smile

Ok, this isn’t a piece of fashion advice, but it is worth paying attention to! Wearing a smile on your face is one of the easiest ways to make people like you. Smiling makes other people smile, which instantly triggers responses in their brain. It’s almost like you’re tricking someone into feeling happy. When they feel happy, they’ll obviously think of you in a positive manner.

Smiling also shows that you are excited about the opportunity and feel really relaxed. Everyone gets nervous during a job interview, but the trick is to mask these nerves and make it seem like you’re happy to be there. It will impress the interviewer as they’re expecting you to be stressed and anxious, but you don’t seem phased. It shows that you can handle tough situations – which they like!

Feel free to use all of these tips when dressing for your big job interviews. Don’t bother buying loads of different outfits for each interview; you can attend them all in the same one. Find an outfit that you feel comfortable in, and it will help you create an unforgettable first impression.

 

Colourful cups, art cups, patterns, Cyntra, Cyntra in the city, cyncity

Balance/ Stress Free Style

Salon 64 | London

salon 64, cyntra, cyncity, whats new

SALON64

We have all been there – rolled out of bed early, hit the alarm clock, ran out the door and as we sit having our morning coffee realize that we only put on one eye of mascara?

The out comes the phone or the awkward hand held mirror as we try to piece together a relatively normal face of make up for the day?

Well let me introduce to you SALON64!

is a brand new concept hidden in the streets of Soho. Just off Dean Street there lies a social hub for the 21st century trendsetter – a space where you can meet your friends, grab a coffee, do your make up and host a meeting… oh and did I mention have a blow dry from one of the most sought after hair styling team in London?

salon 64, cyntra, cyncity, whats new


The Style Bar Soho

As you enter Salon 64 you are met by the beautiful artsy design of the salon and the Style Bar space situated at the front window where you can plug in your iPhone, relax and have a coffee and prepare for your morning meetings after your commute!

Their coffee is exquisite with their very own coffee beans roasted by Vagabond to give you that morning buzz! Also, if you are feeling a little bit like you need a sweet hit – their pure chocolate based hot chocolate is not to be missed!

salon 64, cyntra, cyncity, whats new


The Bar

Next to the The Style Bar, The Bar serves a varying menu of drinks and snacks, it is the ideal place to meet friends or have a meeting.

It is designed to allow you to work on a laptop or tablet while having a creative space to chat and get your #girlboss on.

salon 64, cyntra, cyncity, whats new


Blow Dry

If you’re running from work to meet your friends or heading out on an impromptu date – run on in and the team are there have got you sorted with a pampering nail treatment or quick blow dry.

Beachy, big or whatever style you need the team there are so welcoming and really helpful in giving you a few tips to keep your mane in good check.

Their gorgeous products are all organic and made in Italy. Naturally nourishing for your locks – which is definitely what we need among all the city pollution.

salon 64, cyntra, cyncity, whats new


Art of the Conversation

Toward the back of Salon 64 is the fire pit area. This is where the concept really comes alive. The fire pits offer a space for you to work, host meetings, have your hair done and even catch up with friends while you get ready for the weekend.

It is so dynamic. You will see people nibbling a croissant in the morning preparing for the day ahead. People having their hair done and catching up over the days office goss before heading out into the Big Smoke. People just sitting back and enjoying London’s latest offering.

The area can be a table, a mirror, a dressing table and somewhere to have your hair blown. I can’t quite articulate it myself – you just have to go in!


Result

I am always looking for simple hacks to save me time and energy – and this is definitely one.

I love it for these three reasons:

  1. They serve GREAT artisan coffee

2. Ricky and the team are truly welcoming and really get you involved in the conversation! Their passion is tangible!

3. ANYONE who can give me big curls when I ask for big curls gets my seal of approval!

salon 64, cyntra, cyncity, whats new

Prices

Ricky Walters, owner of Salon 64, employs his expertise in the science of hair and beauty to direct a team of cosmetologists, ordering a number of highly specialized hair styling and colouring options as well as beauty & pampering treatments:

Creative Director/ Owner – upon consultation only (booking required)

Styling Services:

Cut & blowdry from £77.00

Blowdry from £55.00

Hair up from £70.00

Gents cut from £50.00

Colour Services:

Full head of Highlights from£185.00

Half head of Highlights from £145.00

Tint from £90.00

Nail Spa Treatments

Essential Manicure from £45.00

Essential Pedicure from £55.00

Explore

Stress-Free Guide to Cuba | Havana

Guide to Havana CubaThinking about travelling to Cuba?

Here is my little guide to the places I visited.

My hints and tips. All the things I wish I knew before I went.

I hope you enjoy and if you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to ask.


Learn Spanish

This is a big one – people don’t always speak English.


Flight

First and foremost this is a biggy. There are not many flights that go directly to Cuba. This may improve over time now the country is opening up.

However, that said – make sure you get the direct flight from London. We did the split going via Spain. Not only was it like stepping back in time on the plane (no personal screens) but it is a LONG flight. It may be more expensive but trust me it’s important.

Airport

You are not going anywhere quick.

Havana airport is renowned for being one of the slowest airports in the world. It is disorganised, chaotic and slow. You will be waiting for your bags a long time. If you are travelling with a tour operator they are well versed in this delay but if you are booking your own onward travel please keep this in mind. Bring a book – there is NO 3G and NO WIFI.

Taxis

There are lots of taxis waiting and available from the airport. Don’t be scared to haggle the price. They know you have just landed. If you can get a classic car I would highly recommend.


Accommodation

This is up to you how you do this. Some things to consider… There is no beach in the city, the closest beach to Habana is about 20 minutes away, at Playa del Este. There are daily shuttles, I think for 3CUC/day.

With this in mind if you are a beach bae then I would try and book a hotel with a pool for the first couple of days to get over the jet lag before moving on to a casa.

I stayed at NH Capri La Habana

Nestled in the heart of downtown, rooftop pool, great views and in a cool area.

If you are staying in Havana for a while I would highly recommend you seek out a casa to stay in. Effectively these are B&B’s where the hosts generally look after you. They cook, clean, feed and water you. It’s an amazing way to immerse yourself in Cuban culture, meet Cubans and also help the community. This way you are helping the locals out.

Here are some great recommendations: Best Casas in Havana 


What to wear?

Key pieces:

Trainers:

I wore Adidas Superstar.Havana is a casual place but also a place you want to explore. The roads are cobbled, the streets full of life. You want a trainer that looks stylish yet is practical for allowing to you to get stuck in.

Shorts:

This is the perfect climate for shorts. The Cubans are lively and bold dressers so don’t be afraid to go with colour. It’s not widely conservative – so you can wear what you would wear at home. Females are warned though – be careful if alone – you will get attention. My American Apparel shorts were a godsend. Chic and comfy.

Tops:

Short, long, flowy – anything goes. Play with colours and be vibrant. Its hot during the day but there is a cool wind at night so bring a light sweater or scarf.

Accessories:

Think hippy and creative. This town is full of colour and art. Be part of the creativity.

Bags:

Bring bags with lots of pockets. This is still a foreign country and you are a tourist. There are a lot of opportunists in this world.

This is a cool, casual, artistic and vibrant part of the world. Like most Caribbean islands it’s full of life. In the evening for dinner its casual with a little elegance if you feel.


What to see?

Havana is a historical and political hotspot to explore.

Cuba Direct was our tour operator as we only had a limited time there. We had a bespoke private tour and saw the whole of Cuba from the comfort of an old American car. If you are short on time then a tour is the way forward otherwise have a look around when you get there.


Top Visits

Hemingway House

Old Havana

El Malecon

Havana Catedral

Plaza de la Revolucion

El Cristo de La Habana


Places to Eat

Something you will work out quite early on is that when you buy food out – its well erm ok.

Their avocados though are off the fricking chain!

The best food you will have is cooked by Cubans in their Casa’s

Here is one of the restaurants I will recommend in Havana Old Town.

Good food – peaceful atmosphere – good price.

Watch the prices in Havana Old Town – they are expensive.

Coppelia

This is a must visit Havana’s Coppelia building is one of the largest ice cream parlours in the world. Holding 1000 guests, it is located on the part of Calle 23 known as La Rampa in the Vedado district.

Fidel Castro had it built to bring Ice Cream to Cuba but also rival the Americans in Ice Cream production.

Its a weird looking building but in a really cool area where loads of Cubans hang out so it’s nice to get away from the tourist humm that will drive you nuts in Old Town Havana

La Rampa

where the Coppelia is located in a cool area.

It has the big hotels that once were booming in the 50s and also the old Mafia hotel (you cannot miss it)
It is also the home to one of the best Jazz Clubs I have been too.

Head to the British Telephone Box and head down the stairs.

YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCED CUBAN MUSIC!

Enjoy


Keeping Healthy

Cuba is not a health hot spot in the world. A lot of the food is high carb, fried and meaty. It’s not the best place for vegetarians.

A lot of the cocktails have a spoonful of sugars added.

With this in mind think outside the box.

Havana Old Town is a nice walk away from most places – so opt for walking rather than cabs.

Try and top on veggies and fruit where possible.
You will often find vegetables come in a sauce – so in your best Spanish try and ask for them plain.

Swim, walk, run, and get active.

You don’t want to restrict your enjoyment but remember there is a Yin to every Yang – so balance it out.


Cuba is a wonderful place and will be ever changing now they are becoming open to the world.

Try and get there before it loses all its original value.


Words of warning

Do not buy cigars from anywhere other than state-run shops. You may think you’re getting a deal but you’re not they are fake and you do not know what is in them. You will meet sweet Cubans who have a friend, or know someone who can get them cheap, or will tell you about a national day where they are cheaper…unfortunately it is all lies. Sorry – but stick to the rules if you want cigars.


For More Stress-Free Travel Guides Click Here: Travel

Balance/ Stress Free Style

How to Enjoy Summer in Style

Every Summer has its own Story

And has’t that been true for our hot hot hot Summer. When we started it out from the muddy puddles of Glastonbury… We thought the tale has been told for the future of a very wet Summer… until one fine day the Sun finally came out.

The parks are filling up with bodies soaking up the sun, our wardrobes become a plethora of colours and textures to brighten up those days, BBQ becomes the go to for dinner and there is always time for a fruity cider.

The sun enables us to produce valuable vitamin D which in turn prevents us from getting seasonal affective disorders and other ailments. This means the time is now to get outside and enjoy this Summer in Style… here are my top little hacks… 

1) Hang up the boring Work clothes and embrace the day with Style

Smart Casual in hot weather is tough. With heavy fabrics and tight tailoring it can lead to people getting hot and agitated. Let go of the rules and bring out those natural cottons, flowing dresses, cami tops and crops.

We are a nation who embraces every minute of sunlight like it might be our last… so you will be forgiven for breaking the office dress code on these days. Live a little!

2) Kick out the heels and jump into those Kicks

The sun is out and it is time to get moving. The tube is a near death experience, traffic jams and being stuffy in the car! No way – get out and move. Four miles may sound a long way to work but put on your favourite kicks and get moving. You will get those early morning rays and keep your beach bod in check with the exercise.

I am drooling over my new kicks Footlocker is smashing it with styles this summer. These beautiful adidas quilted ZX Flux are stylish enough to be worn with a co-ord or summer dress meaning you can head straight from the office to the Park – BBQ – Sun Adventure without having to carry lots of bags with a change of clothes in.

3) Bring Nature in…

Flowers in every room. Brighten up your day. Go to the market after work and treat yourself to a new plant. Boost that smile every morning with the beautiful colours of nature. 

From Columbia Road to your local Florist. Pop in – find out whats local. Get the scents in and embrace the colours. If you want to order beautiful British Flowers online – check out Arena Flowers for special offers that are beautifully local to bring any room to life. or you can use wynne66708 for 25% off 😉

 53696-mixed-stocks


 Enjoy every moment…

Summer always ends with good memories

Balance

Best exercises for stress management

Stress

Everyday stresses can really wear you down. When the office seems to be getting on top of you and the work-load seems to be ever growing it can be hard to let go and separate home from work. Part of having a work-life balance is learning techniques to know when to turn off you work head from your home head. This can be difficult if there is not a natural break between leaving work and getting home.


Exercise

Exercise is often the best cure when your day has stressed you out. An after work gym session could be the best break you could have between leaving the office and getting home. Most people need to digest and sometimes take the stress of their day out which if you keep bottled up could lead to you having a stressful home environment. No-one enjoys having their head bitten off when they ask “how was your day”.

workout, stress management, stress relief


Pilates

Pilates is a great form of exercise to Centre, Concentrate and Connect with yourself while using up that negative energy to burn calories. Pilates is similar to yoga but emphasizes your body’s core. It strengthens the abdomen, obliques, lower back, inner and outer thigh, butt which is great if you have a desk job as it helps support your posture.

Pilates develops strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, coordination, balance, and good posture — with a much lower chance of injury than with other forms of exercise. The discipline emphasizes correct form instead of going for the burn. Which means even if you are absolutely shattered after a hard day you may be able to find enough energy to re-connect before heading home.

peace, tranquility, view, france, stress


Variations

There are a few types of Pilates you can try: Reformer, Hot and Mat.

Reformer: Is great for those who prefer more resistance as the reformer machine allows you to add weights to certain moves. Allowing you to get all the benefits while challenging yourself more. Try Fitness Fusions in Clapham for a challenging Reformer for FREE for your first time or for an all over body changer FRAME Pilates Package.

Hot: Like Bikram Yoga this refreshing way of doing pilates gives you the buzz and energy that you get from hot classes. Challenging and helps achieve the feeling of sweating out the stress. Try HotPodYoga for a sense enlightening session at one of their venues across London.

Mat: Best option for beginners or those who want clarity. You will strengthen your core while improving your posture. Search for your local pilates class to find the right match for you.


Clothing

Wear something reasonably fitting which allows you to move while not restricting you with extra clothing. Leggings from Lululemon or Fabletics are perfect to give you good fitting as well as stylish choices. If you want to rock both style, stretch and ultimate chic then check out the new collaboration between Bodyism x Charlotte Olympia.


Refresh

Pilates doesn’t require as many calories as other activities such as running therefore you do not need to load up after a session. Re-hydrate well as continue with your Supper as you would normally. For an added boost of clarity and de-stress I often have a Pukka Tea from either the Matcha Range (if i do a morning pilates) or Turmeric to soothe and benefit from anti-inflammatory properties from any stresses from work

Balance/ Stress Free Style

Create Beautiful Hair in Minutes for a Stress Free Morning

It’s been a long day and you hit the gym to de-stress.

You get home wash your hair and blow dry it silky smooth.

You hop into bed to get your beauty sleep.

Only to wake up looking like you’ve been play fighting in a rose bush while pumped with static!

Welcome to my world!


This was my life until I discovered a simple and easy life hack which means you can wake up with loose rolling waves allowing you to get work ready in half the time.

This little hack is so simple yet so effective it will completely revolutionise your morning routine leaving you less stressed and giving you more time to spend on other things such as a morning meditation, cooking a nutritious breakfast or even taking an extra shut eye.

The bed-time top knot.

This cute hairstyle is most effective on freshly washed hair which is slightly damp.

You can still do it with dry hair but adding a spritz of hairspray will give extra hold.


Follow these simple steps to rolling curls

Start by washing your hair with a good quality Organic Shampoo and Conditioner such as Tabitha James Kraan Hair Cleanser and 4-in-1 Conditioner. Organic Haircare is important for your hair especially when working in polluted cities. Many high street brands strip your hair of its natural oils and then drown it in thick silicone which weighs it down leaving it lifeless. For rolling curls you need light and nourished hair.

Once washed comb through using a Tangle Teezer. Tangle teezers are gentle on your hair. When your hair is wet it is more flexible but vulnerable to breakage when using normal hairbrushes. Tangle teasers are gentle on your hair preventing breakages leaving your locks luscious and full. This gorgeous Gold one can be snuck into your gym bag so you can wash at home or away.

Next apply your pre-styling products. My current favs are: Bumble& Bumble Invisible Oil Primer and Kerastase Resistance Volumifique.
Protecting your hair against heat and other UV damage is key to keeping your hair in good condition. A good mousse gives your hair that extra lift but also a little bit of tackiness for styling the next day.

Blow dry your hair to 90% dry.

Finally grab your hair band. The bain of my life (if you follow me on snapchat you will see) is hair tyes snapping. The first world problems of big hair. For this reason my friend at Feelunique.com  introduced to me Invisibobble and I am a convert. Stretchy, painless and kind to your hair these are the perfect alternative.

Grab your hair and twist into a top knot that sits on your head. You want it as high on your head as possible so it does not interfere with your sleep but you also get the all over curl.


Come the morning when the alarm goes off…

Your hair will have transformed into rolling waves. Before you let your hair down lightly spritz it with Bumble & Bumble Dryspun Finish or TRESemme Extra or Freeze Hold and leave it while you finish your make-up. Once completed let your hair down and let waves roll. You may want to tame around your face or back brush the back for more lift.

Bed ready to work ready in just 20mins!

Stress Free Style

Minty Mondays: Matching Heels and Sneaks

Spring is finally here and what better way to celebrate then freshening up your wardrobe with some pastel mint vibes.

Going to work 5 days a week you can get stuck in the same rotation of grey and black making you feel like winter is still in your wardrobe. Time to shake it up and bring some fresh colour into you repertoire. Adidas stan smiths have brought out a fresh new range of pastel sneakers ranging from frozen green to pastel pink. Intricate details and a cool finish these are an excellent addition to put a spring in your step and spring into your wardrobe.


Changing from sneakers to heels is made easy when you stick to the same colours as you know it will match.

My ASOS mint heels add a simple yet effective insert of colour into my black suit. If you are like me and your wardrobe is a mix of monochrome then brightening up for the seasons can be simply left to your accessories.


Matching your sneaks to your heels means you can dash about town to all your meetings, commute without damaging your knees, get in the car easily while placing your heels in your bag and transition from boardroom coffees to girls and cocktails without having to dash home to change.

Its all about using your precious time effectively and not feeling a pack horse every time you know you’re meeting friends after work.



We are busy ladies these days. Managing your time effectively so you can be the best #GIRLBOSS while also balancing out that time for social and relaxation.

Keep it fresh this spring and treat yourself to some matching heels and sneaks! Go on… you deserve it!

Balance

Using your Senses to relieve Stress: Clarified Designs

Life is full of stress. From the moment we wake up BOOM goes our alarm we are on edge throughout the day. If you live in a city you have to deal with noise, traffic, people, coffee, work, meetings, exercise, emails, telephone calls… the list goes on.

Finding daily ways to calm yourself to keep stress at bay is imperative to make sure you keep balanced. Having an internal toolkit to help you bring your levels back to Zen is key to remaining calm in all situations.

Your senses are key to calmness and clarity. Think about when you visit home and the smell of your mum – that relaxation it sends through you. When you taste that herb that takes you back to when you first tried it. The feeling of your favourite sweater soft against your skin. Your senses can transport you to a place of calm and it is this technique that I want to share with you today.


 

I recently received my beautiful blend from Clarified Designs. An elixir of essential oils in a beautiful necklace to help balance me out. The smell is divine and provides the reminder to take a few minutes in stressful times to stop and effectively smell the flowers.

I wanted to find out more about this wonderful company so I got in contact with their founders to find out more about this inspiring idea.


When was Clarified Designs Founded?

Clarified Designs was founded in our (Rachel and Francesca) joint household in Brisbane August 2015

What was the inspiration behind its creation?

Rachel first introduced me (Francesca) to essential oils in 2014 when we met.

It was about September 2015, where I started becoming more aware of the spiritual and magical properties of the oils while reading at work. (Francesca)

I came home to Rachel explaining how the vibration of oils worked just like crystals, except we could interact with them on a different level (smell) which made them so much more present and permeating to me. I told her how wonderful it would be to wear the oils all day! She had tiny little bottles in her room which she had bought at a craft store a few weeks ago because she thought they were cute!

Coincidence or alignment?

From there the idea was born, we started wearing necklaces and all our friends and family around us wanted to wear them as well!


What attracted you to essential oils?

For both of us it is definitely the luxury of smelling such a potent plant oil. I felt instantly better when I smelt the right oils, and I think on a soul level, I always knew how magical they were.

Essential oils are such a gentle and instantaneous way to soothe your soul, mind and emotions, let alone all their physical benefits as well


Which oil is your favourite?

Francesca: Rose, because I feel she is the queen of all essential oils. She balances a woman’s entire reproductive system, soothes her heart, and instils her with passion, love, patience and elegance.

Rachel: Geranium, because it is extremely balancing and smells floral and herbaceous at the same time.

Internally it calms me down and allows me to embrace everything with positivity.


How important are essential oils for young women in stressful jobs? 

We would say that essential oils have a lot to bring women in stressful jobs.

Not only can they calm the central nervous system, they can help a young woman come to understand her true nature, desires and life purpose.

They will fuel her fire, increase drive, motivation and desire to attain fulfilment.


What blend would you recommend for those trying to balance work stress and life stress?

We could recommend our Shakti blend
This is designed to balance all energies in our body.

Including masculine/feminine energies, hormonal system, mental, emotional and spiritual bodies. The Shakti blend calls on the divine masculine and feminine to achieve balance within the body. If you are feeling stagnant or lacking direction the vibrational qualities of the oils in this blend will attract inspiration, movement and energy to you. This blend will help your body listen to its own truth, for without balance we are unable to live to our full potential.

The blend includes the Certified Organic Oils of Atlas Cedarwood, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Geranium and Clary Sage.

It has an incredibly refreshing scent likened to the natural scents of the forest and the earth. Balance yourself with this blend to achieve holistic equilibrium.


 

What advice would you give to people new to essential oils?

First of all it would be to follow your nose.

Head into a trusted aromatherapy company and let your nose lead you to your very first essential oil or blend.

Next step would be to read about how that oil and blend affects you to see if it correlates with what you need in your life.

Letting your intuition guide you to oils can be an amazing experience.

Essential oils are an excellent and non-invasive way of treating physical symptoms, altering your mood and lifting your spirits.


Head on over to their Clarified Designs for any questions you may have about their blends. They now ship across the world so you can order your own personalised blend to bring some balance into your day to day lives.

I keep mine loose around my neck in order that I can bring it out and Zen whenever the weight of the world gets too much. Cute, simple and effective.

 

Explore/ Stress Free Style

After work Blow Dry with Brooks+Brooks

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Its Friday!
Finally…something to make you smile. Its the weekend. Its the night of the week when you can let your hair down (or blow-dryed into the perfect up do) and dance the night away.


You can touch up your make up in the work bathrooms but giving your hair a refresh is sometimes difficult. This is where the perfect salon to quickly give you the once over is the answer.

Based in Holborn Brooks+Brooks is the golden ticket.

They transformed my locks from drab to fab!

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I was met by Kayleigh at the door who sat me down to go through my options. I was tired from a long day at work and welcomed a sit down and relax. Offered a coffee and a lil brownie to start my day was starting to get a little better.

We chatted about options, hair colour, hair condition and face shapes. Kayleigh suggested a couple of styles…

Heading out for cocktails and a banquet dinner we opted for a half up do.


Kayleigh was ab8 little camera shy so she stayed hidden

Hair Washed
Best Massage
Hair Treated
Hair Heated

and we were ready to get started!


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First she tied knots to make an edgy braid. Playful yet tamed.

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Then mermaid curls.

Kayleigh used a wand to create such magical waves. They set perfectly with the in salon products and lasted hours.

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Th finished style was in incredible. I had been transformed from the dreary end of work look to freshly made for a night with the girls.

Glamorous, Stylish and Chic: Brooks+Brooks Hairdressing is a must check out.

To book your appointment head to: enquiries@brooksandbrooks.co.uk

or call +442074058111


Explore/ Stress Free Style

Monochrome Mondays: Travel Style

1Style while Travelling

When you travel for work it can be quite difficult looking the part but also making sure you are being realistic with your outfit.
Commuting across london, getting to the airport, the plane journey and then finding your bearings the other side, you need to be prepared so you don’t turn up flustered, sore feet and a little disheveled.

Here is my guide for looking like a Girl Boss no matter the Time Zone.

 


Preparation

Pack and plan the night before. I can’t emphasise how important this is. You will be calm, level headed and prepared. If you don’t you make up on the day stressed, tired, late and forget those key and important documents.

Keep all your travel documents in a slip together. Keep your toiletries in a plastic bag to save time and searching at the airport. Separate your work clothes from casual for a quick change. Bring something extra in case of delays.

If you are going to a business meeting in another country remember you may be asked out for dinner that evening so remember to pack an alternative outfit.


 

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Footwear

Trust me it is not a good idea to travel in heels. Rushing about even in the smallest heels can wreak havoc on your knees.
You may have to run for you plane, or make a long walk the other side, and you don’t want to be one holding your colleagues back. There is nothing worse than watching someone rush in heels.
Flat shoes don’t need to be the odd thing out on your outfit: edge up your corporate style while travelling.

These Nike Cortez are sleek, monochrome and stylish can be worn with a suit to give it a nonchalant edge of style while keeping you in a position where you’re ready for anything. You can even use those in the evening when exploring the new town you are in and racking up those 10,000 steps.


IMG_3542[1]Accessories

Don’t think outfits – Think Accessories.

How can you make the outfit you’re wearing look completely different? This helps you save on space in your suitcase. A different chunky necklace or a scarf can transform how an outfit looked.
Bring two tops and one set of trousers. Wear your hair-up and long earrings.
This trick is particularly great if you want to sacrifice space to bring your workout gear.

These trousers are my go-to whenever travelling as one day they are high waisted the next they are peg trousers with a sweater.


Workout Gear

Always chuck in a sports bra, leggings, swimsuit and top.

You never know after a long day your hotel may have a gym/ spa. You may even find a local yoga class and then head back for a sauna.

It’s better to be prepared than miss out.


Handbag

Headphones, book, charger, healthy snacks, water and money.

You never know with travelling whether there will be a delay.
Don’t always rely on technology because when the power is gone – its gone.
Keep snacks on you in-case you don’t find a place to grab a bite, you don’t want to be the one with the growling stomach or low energy.

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Travelling can take its toll on you. Tired, rushed, busy and stressed. If you can take the pressure off yourself in certain areas then you can focus on the job in hand.

What are your tricks for travelling? Would love to hear
Comment Below

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Stress Free Style

Workwear Favourites: Pastel Pink


I am loving Pastels as we move closer to spring.

I have never been a fan of the gray scale that working in The City/Office often leads you to wearing.

As a firm wearer of black – pairing a pastel colour just brings an outfit a splash of freshness.

Its feminine, smart, fresh and stylish.


Here are my Pastel favourites:
(Perfect for the office and post work catch ups)

footlocker

adidas Stan Smith 
Cute, chic and feminine these sneakers can be slipped on to wear on your commute to work. If you work in a corporate office you can slip these under your desk until the end of day then slip them back on to casual up your business outfit if meeting friends after work.
Paired with black trousers or a cute dress you can transform your outfit without having to bring another bag of clothes.


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Helene Berman Coat

This coat is perfect for keeping you warm while we transition to Spring. The fresh pastel pink brings elegance to your outfit while being very smart. You could use this to smarten up a more casual outfit if you’re heading to the theatre or out for dinner post work.


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ASOS PROPELLOR Lace Up Pointed Heels

Just love these!


If you are anything like me and find that black is your go to colour – mixing in a pastel can really transform you.

A flash of lipstick, a spritz of a floral perfume and pastel accessory can add that femininity to a harsh black outfit.


Explore/ Stress Free Style

Big and Voluminous Hair: Tabitha James Kraan


“Hair thrives when it is Nurtured by Nature”
Wise words from Tabitha James Kraan the creator and passion behind the Organic and Sustainable Haircare range.


Bad Hair Day!

We all have busy lives running from gym to work to friends to parties! Last thing we need is a bad hair day!

Those hair days where all the volume is gone and but the ends are fluffy!
We get in from work and we want to head straight out but the lifeless mop on our heads is holding us back!
Not to mention that luck lustre smell from everything you have picked up throughout the day!

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Hmmm “what about dry shampoo”
With most dry shampoo you will end up looking like you have dandruff or if you go for the “brown” one…dirty!

Well let me introduce to Tabitha James Kraan Dry shampoo and Hair Perfume

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These beautiful products are completely Organic and Sustainable and SMELL ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!

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I picked up the full set from her website including the hair cleanser, conditioner, hair oil, hair perfume and dry shampoo.
When the products arrived I quickly set out to use these products…


I parted my hair and gently sprinkled the dry shampoo along my parting and roots

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I waited 30 seconds for the powder to do its power! Then blow-dryed my hair on a cool setting from side to side.

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(insert instant volume pose)

The RESULTS were AMAZING!

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Big, Bold, Luscious and full of Life.

I gave a couple of little spritz’s of the hair perfume and I was ready to go!


So many products on the market are full of nasty chemicals which seep into our blood-stream. The also get into the water and pollute the environment. Many products also strip all the natural oils from your hair which can result in nasty side effects such as dandruff, dry and frizzy hair or greasy hair. Tabitha’s product range is one of the purest, cleanest, most organic hair products possible that work in harmony with the hair and the scalp. Hair that is treated to the Tabitha James Kraan formula has natural shine and lustre, vibrant colour, smells amazing and stays looking good for days.


What you put on your body is as important as what you put in your body.

Making small changes to make sure your products are clean, environmentally friendly, organic and kind to your skin really make a holistic impact.

Wellbeing is about nourishing inside and out.

Make those small changes so you can look and feel fabulous

(and smell insane!)
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Check out Tabitha’s full range at http://www.tabithajameskraan.com/ or visit her salon in the heart of the Cotwolds for the full treat!

Balance/ Stress Free Style

Changing Seasons Style

This Autumn I have a new addition to my Fall Wardrobe

Timberland 6″ Classic Boot

Timberlands 4

Timberland once known for being workman boots are now defined as a timeless Style staple.

They have an ability to give any style an air of nonchalance. Worn by Men and Women, these boots bring a certain look to an outfit while being applicable to a plethora of looks. Just take a glance at Cara Delivigne or Rihanna – effortlessly cool in their dress down wear – these boots bring the casual joggers and baggy top a type of definition which is hard to come across in any other boot.

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Paired with jeans, skirts and dresses: the classic Timberland can really bring a degree of edge to your fall wardrobe while elongating your legs as the chunk of the boots brings a clear contrast in size to your pins.

As the nights draw in and the days become cooler layers will become a necessity.  A strong and stylish pair of boots will allow you to layer on those chunky knits without making yourself feel like you’ve given up style for practicality.

  Timberlands

These boots are also great for those Winter walks through the beautiful parks to see how the seasons are changing.

I got mine from Footlocker who have the range of Timberland styles from Classic to the Glastonbury to the Sneaker Look

Encourage yourself to get outside and make sure you get out and enjoy what is left of the day in order to get those daily endorphins and limited amount of Vitamin D. Fitness is equally important in the Winter as it is in the Spring/Summer as Root vegetables come into season and the warmer drinks are the ones that seem more desirable.

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How do you style your boots? What are your Winter essentials? I would love to hear! Comment below with your links to your pics! Or @ me on in instagram @cyntra,city

This post is in collaboration with footlocker but all opinions and style choices are my own. #approved

Recipes

Top Tips to Slim for New Years Eve

Retro Fonts

Hands up who is still feeling full!

Christmas Day has finished and now we are looking forward to the next big event of 2015…

NEW YEARS EVE 2015

Some of you may be heading back to work this week, but getting stressed about NYE should not be on your to do list… I’ve created a list of my top tips to get the ball rolling ready for the big night!

Right first things first:

#1 Have a breakfast to tackle the hangover

The best way to deal with over indulgence is to get some Asparagus in your diet.
Research to be published in the Journal of Food Science, Korean researchers found that extracts taken from the leaves and shoots of asparagus boosted levels of key enzymes that break down alcohol after heavy drinking!
So I recommend Poached Egg and Asparagus for Boxing Day!

 

#2 Get those 10,000 steps in

Wake up, chuck on those sweats (and if you’re still feeling festive your Christmas Jumper) and go out for a walk! Nothing too excessive you do not want to punish yourself. Grab your dog, mum, partner or headphones and just get the blood running and the calories burning. I cannot explain enough how important it is to do your 10,000 steps a day. Keeping slim was never so easy if you just keep moving.

While you are at work – make sure you head out in those lunch breaks this week. Walk to work. Walk around the office. Just keep moving. Sitting down is a sure fire way to keep the Christmas bulge longer than usual!

#3 Cheat with a waist trainer

You can buy one of these off amazon and create the perfect silhouette for your little black dress. Wearing this on a day to day basis also helps your posture and helps curve your body in and out in all the right places.

Wear it under your snuggly wear while catching up with family or if you are in the office… under your workwear. Completely invisible to anyone but you… this is a must for getting ready for NYE

#4 Clean up your diet

You have approximately 6 days to nail this. If you need a little help get James Duigan book which contains a 14 day guide to a flat stomach. This should be able to guide you in the right direction in order to give you a head start into 2016

Sneak some left over turkey for some lean protein. It features a lot in this book and will save you pounds while losing pounds.

#5 Get some sexy high heels

Heels elevate you up, slim down your legs, make your butt perky and all over give you a slender and confident look. Black strap look heels are my favourite things to hit A/W15. Edgy, cool and stylish these are the perfect addition to your wardrobe for NYE!

On my radar are:

New Look:

 Image 1 of New Look Cut Out Lace Up Heels

Louboutin:

Women Shoes - Apron Lili Veau Velours - Christian Louboutin

Kurt Geiger:

Image 1 of KG By Kurt Geiger Idol Strappy Heeled Sandals

#6 Pre-order a box fitness goodies!

Want to find new healthy snacks, supplements, fitness trends to get fit for 2016 – head over to Fittyldn.com!  They’ve created a monthly box that let’s you discover the hottest fitness foods and workout products! Expect all kinds of brands, from the big boys that grace the health shop shelves down to the small start-ups you haven’t heard of!

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There is one for every need…from Cleanse box to Women’s Health box and an Everyday to cover all your needs.

So those are my top tips! I hope you enjoy them. I am now off to get my 10,000 steps – while keeping on my stretchy leggings to keep my post Christmas day tummy at bay!

Bring it on 2016! I am ready for you!