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EU Adopts Stricter Toy Safety Rules, Expands Chemical Bans and Introduces Digital Product Passports

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THE WHAT? The European Parliament has approved new toy safety regulations aimed at reducing the number of unsafe toys on the EU market and strengthening protections for children’s health and development.

THE DETAILS The updated regulation replaces the 2009 directive and responds to growing online toy sales, including imports from outside the EU, and increased use of digital technologies. Member states and industry stakeholders will have 4.5 years to comply.

The rules significantly expand chemical restrictions: the existing ban on carcinogenic, mutagenic and reproductive-toxic (CMR) substances is extended to endocrine disruptors, respiratory toxins, skin-toxic substances and other chemicals deemed especially harmful to children. The intentional use of PFAS and the most hazardous bisphenols will be prohibited, and allergenic fragrances will be banned in toys for children under three and in any toys intended for mouthing.

Manufacturers will be required to conduct comprehensive safety assessments covering chemical, mechanical, electrical and physical hazards, as well as flammability, hygiene, radioactivity and risks linked to digital features.

All toys placed on the EU market must carry a digital product passport (DPP), improving traceability and enabling more efficient customs and market surveillance checks. Online marketplaces must also ensure CE markings, safety warnings and DPPs are clearly displayed, with non-compliant toys classified as “illegal content” under the Digital Services Act.

Manufacturers, importers and distributors will face clearer and stricter obligations, including immediate corrective action and notification requirements when risks are identified.

THE WHY? The regulation aims to tighten enforcement, modernise safety requirements and address gaps created by cross-border e-commerce and emerging digital risks in children’s products.

Source: European Parliament

Cream vs Powder Bronzer: How to Choose

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It’s that time again, the sun is shining brightly, the days are longer, and the look of sun-kissed skin is in. Summertime is the ideal time to explore the world of bronzers.

There is a misconception that bronzing and contouring are one and the same, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Contouring is meant to bring dimension and depth to the face with subtle sculpting while bronzers are meant to bring warmth and glow.

There is also a distinct difference in the shades of contouring products and bronzers. Because contouring is meant to add depth and dimension the shades often have a noticeably cooler undertone while bronzers have more a skin-like undertone.

Cream vs Powder

With so many options you may find yourself asking should I choose a cream or a powder? Cream bronzers are often a great choice for drier skins because of their emollient nature making it easy to get a softer blend. However, the new PureBronze collection, despite being a powder, gives a soft touch and blends easily even on a drier skin. It is equally important for oily skins to choose the correct texture for bronzers. Oily skins should avoid choosing bronzers that are heavily shimmered this can cause the skin to look very textured and shiny.

Finding Your Undertone

Just like any other complexion product, both depth of skin and undertone play important roles when choosing a bronzer.

The general rule of thumb is to opt for a bronzer one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Whether you are fair, light, medium, deep, or somewhere in between, knowing your skin’s undertone is just as important as knowing your depth of skin.

If you are unsure of your undertone here is a quick review:

  • Undertones fall into three basic categories: warm, cool, and neutral.
  • A warm undertone is more peachy, golden, or yellow.
  • A cool undertone is generally associated with skin that has hints of blue, pink.
  • Neutral undertones have a mix of cool and warm undertones.
  • Your undertone will affect how your skin appears when it is tan.
    • Lighter skin tones with warm undertones tan more peach. Choose a bronzer that is peachy based or neutral tan.
    • Light to medium skin tones with warm undertones tan more golden. Choose a bronzer that has a copper tone.
    • Deeper skin tones tan with warm undertones tan more of a deep bronze. Choose a bronzer that is deep rich chocolate.
    • Lighter skin tones with cool undertones tan rosier. Choose a bronzer with a rosier tone.
    • Light to medium skin tones with a cool undertone tan more of a deep cinnamon. Choose a tan shade bronzer with a hint of that cinnamon hue.
    • Deeper or richer skin tones with a cool undertone tan more reddish. Choose a deep brown with a hint of red.
    • Lastly, if you have a neutral undertone there is no detectable prominent shade, you may burn then tan. Opt for a beige tone that will not cause the skin to look to red or orange.

Now that we have discussed undertone and depth, application is also an essential element in getting the ultimate natural sun-kissed look. If using in conjunction with complexion products such as foundation make sure to apply a dusting of powder to prevent an uneven application. If a cream bronzeris preferredit can be blended directly onto the skin after foundation or tinted moisturizer.

Just as contour has specific rules for placement so do bronzers. Applying where the sun naturally hits the face is key. Proper bronzer placementincludes the sides of the forehead, around the temples in a c formation, the tip of the nose and the chin. Fan brushes are the best tool to use, remember this is to add warmth not coverage. A fan brush will keep the application light and natural. Don’t forget about the neck and decollate. For an added glow use a shimmer bronzer on the high points of the face such as the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose.

Bronzers can also be great on the days where you’re not wearing a lot of makeup or taking photos.

Whether you choose cream or powder, bronzers are a great way to welcome in and celebrate summer.

Rinseless Root Refresh Named Best Dry Shampoo – Iles Formula

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We are proud to announce that the Iles Formula Rinseless Root Refresh has been awarded Best Dry Shampoo in the Marie Claire Hair Awards 2025 — a celebration of innovation, performance, and true luxury in haircare.

This recognition is more than a win. It is a testament to our philosophy: that clean, fresh hair should never come at the cost of scalp health or hair integrity.

More Than a Dry Shampoo

At first glance, the Rinseless Root Refresh may seem like a dry shampoo, but it is so much more.

Where traditional dry shampoos rely on heavy powders and aerosol sprays to mask oil, our formula takes a different approach. Powered by clean, botanical ingredients, it gently cleanses the scalp without waterreviving roots and resetting your hair’s freshness and volume without leaving residue.

It is ideal for in-between wash days, post-gym refreshes, travel, or whenever your scalp needs a light reset.

A New Category of Clean

The Rinseless Root Refresh was created as a solution for modern lifestyles. It acts as a hybrid, combining the purifying effect of a hair wash with the convenience of its application.

Infused with science and clean beauty principlesthis innovative formula:

  • Purifies and refreshes the scalp without disrupting its natural balance

  • Absorbs oil and odour without powdery build-up

  • Delivers a soft, beachy texture without salt or stiffness

  • Supports scalp healthmaking it suitable even for sensitive skin

It leaves hair feeling clean, sumptuous, and lustrous,  as if freshly washed.

How to Use It

  • Shake well before use. Spray on scalp and roots.

  • Gently massage to absorb sebum and product buildup. Do not rinse.

  • Blow dry roots freestyle in the opposite direction to hair growth.

  • Brush through and re-style as normal.

  • Use as required between washes.

The Marie Claire Seal of Approval

Marie Claire’s panel of expert judges and beauty editors described the Rinseless Root Refresh as “a game-changer in the dry shampoo category — weightless, elegant, and truly clean.”

To be recognised by a global authority in beauty is a moment of pride for us at Iles Formula — and a sign that the future of haircare lies in thoughtful, performance-led innovation.

Begin Your Fresh Start

Whether you’re heading from work to dinner, navigating long-haul flights, or simply extending time between washes, the Rinseless Root Refresh is your new hair essential.

Discover the award-winning formula for yourself. Shop now

How to take furniture, and make it fashion.

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So what has furniture got to do with a style blog you ask?

Well my friends, if you think about it, furniture is the fashion for your home right? It’s a way to express your style, to give yourself and your home a sense of personality and self, much like the clothes you wear.

There are so many links between fashion and furniture, and when Target Furniture reached out and asked me to come and visit their gorgeously renovated new store in Mt Wellington, I couldn’t wait to see how they have dialled up the style in-store and share it with you too (I’ve also now mentally planned a makeover for my whole house haha!).

If you’re a regular reader of the blog, you’ll know that the values I’m looking for in pieces of clothing are as follows:

  • Versatility
  • Longevity
  • Value for Money
  • Self Expression / Individuality

So what really impressed me about Target Furniture, is their commitment to those same values when it comes to furniture. The more time I spent in store, the more it really came across that shopping for furniture has so many similarities to what I do when I’m shopping with my styling clients; texture, colours, key pieces are all reoccurring themes in both scenarios, so let’s explore that more…

My Fave Finds.

Just like shopping for clothes, furniture shopping can be overwhelming, so I wanted to show you some of my personal favourites from Target Furniture, just to give you an idea of some of the gorgeous pieces they have, and get you started thinking about your own, unique furniture style too.

1. Add texture to your look to make it interesting!

Texture is where it’s at with the Edge Side Table in Natural. (will put links to each piece here and also the price that is current at time of publishing)

I love the interest in the shape of the side table itself, but also in the pattern of the wood.

This piece is like a gorgeous, intricate handbag. It can pair beautifully with a classic setup, or add an extra edge to something a bit more left of centre.

2. Have one key piece to elevate your look

If this was fashion, The Zara Sofa in Cream would be the most glorious coat! A key piece in your loungeroom, this sofa definitely makes an impact and elevates your space instantly!

Shopping for me is such a tactile experience, and I love the texture and hand touch the Zara Sofa offers.

3. Style and practicality can co-exist

Mid-Century Modern is always a furniture era I’m drawn to, the softness of the base and the simplicity of the glass and timber is what I love about the Maya Low Coffee Table in Natural.

This reminds me of a well-constructed shoe. Elegant and simple, but also practical and useful.

(from a practical standpoint, I love the curved edges for a coffee table, I have too many tiny humans in my house to have sharp edges at that level haha).

4. Luxury doesn’t have to equal beige

Who said all furniture has to be beige or grey? I just love the pop of colour the Madison Velvet Chair in Teal would bring to any space. It adds an element of luxury, just like a gorgeous velvet blazer would to your wardrobe.

I love the classic shape, with sharp corners but at the same time, the tone is soft and inviting and would work in any space (or in any wardrobe!)

Take classic black, but make it edgy and sophisticated

Eye-catching, without being over the top, the Oslo 6-drawer Lowboy in Dark has minimalistic lines and a sleek geometric frame, much like an elegant black jumpsuit

Both the jumpsuit and the Lowboy have a classic colour and silhouette, yet are not for the shy violets! They both have a distinct edge, with a touch of modern sophistication.

One of each for me, please!

6. The most elegant pieces can also be functional

The Haven Bookend Bedframe is right at the top of my personal list, with the light and relaxing colour palette, but the practical element of the bookend, perfect for either storage or styling (or both).

Much like a pair of cream wide leg trousers, this bedframe has a soft, classic feel, but also brings the practicality of storage (just like pockets in pants!).

I can see this frame fitting into many a different style bedroom, just as a classic wide leg pant will suit many a style personality.

7. Choose pieces where form and function meet

Practical, for outdoor use, durable and stylish all rolled into one. I’m talking not only about these gorgeous sunglasses, but also theTropea 3 Piece Outdoor Lounge Set, Gunmetal

I love the curves on the frame, something you don’t see much in outdoor furniture, and the on-trend mesh panels add texture.

This clever design also includes wood-like trim that is also actually aluminium, so will withstand the elements much longer and last for years and years, much like a sturdy pair of sunglasses.

Love my choices? You can shop a curated collection of my favourites on the TARGET FURNITURE WEBSITE

Over the next few months, I’m going to share some of my fave finds from Target Furniture, and show you how you can add that stylish touch to your house, as well as your wardrobe, but first, let me tell you a little more about Target Furniture here in NZ.

The Target Furniture Story.

Target Furniture has been one of New Zealand’s leading furniture retailers for more than 30 years. They’re a 100% Kiwi-owned and operated family business that is passionate about providing Kiwis with affordable furniture that doesn’t compromise on quality or style.

After opening Target Furniture in 1992, Monty Bielby launched the first franchise store in 2001 with a vision to help Kiwis create homes they love – and this is something we still pride ourselves on today.

In the early days, Monty worked closely with designers to craft a premium range of furniture. When importing gained momentum in the 90s, he moved the majority of manufacturing overseas to improve efficiency.

They have seven stores nationwide, but can deliver anywhere in NZ, without the long wait times, as everything is already here in New Zealand ready to be shipped.

I’d love to know your thoughts, what are your favourite pieces from the Target Furniture range? Tell me in the comments below.

This is a sponsored post thanks to Target Funiture. Please support the brands that support this blog.

Is Slugging Actually Good for Your Skin? – 100% PURE

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The beauty TikTokers are at it again. The latest K-beauty trend to hit the For You pages and hashtags on the app is designed to give you the appearance of Korean glass-like skin and the dreamiest texture this side of the beauty internet.

Slugging, as it’s affectionately called, is the technique of smearing petroleum jelly on your face before bedtime. Yes, the sworn-by trend with a hashtag alone that yields over 189 million views could be the messy but golden ticket to baby-soft skin.

Let’s take a closer look at this K-beauty TikTok trend to see if it’s living up to its viral hype – plus some natural alternatives to the petroleum-sourced viral sensation!

What Exactly Is the TikTok Trend of Slugging?

You’re not alone if the term ‘slugging’ conjures up yet another K-beauty TikTok trend of putting snail mucin on your face or entails visions of slugs sliding across your face all in the name of silky skin. But the nighttime technique of slathering on petroleum jelly does leave a slimy, thick film resembling a slug – hence the trend’s namesake.

Is the viral beauty trend the key to waking with reborn skin? Since slugging entails applying a heavy-duty occlusive layer (traditionally balms like Aquaphor or Vaseline) it prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and dehydration of the skin that occurs overnight so you wake to fresh, plump skin.

Slugging also locks in moisture and your other night skin care products so you get more effective and beneficial results. This, in turn, leads to a plethora of other benefits, like more youthful-looking, glowy, and bouncy skin.

vaseline jar

The Pros and Cons of Using Petroleum Jelly for Slugging

The beauty of slugging besides achieving ultra-soft skin from the comfort of your bed is it only requires one product: an occlusive! Occlusive ingredients act as a seal, keeping moisture from escaping while giving skin a more hydrated appearance. The top trending occlusive for slugging is Vaseline.

Under the popular brand name for petroleum jelly, Vaseline is more effective at reducing the amount of moisture your skin loses and locking in hydration compared to applying a regular moisturizer. The low cost of the ooey-gooey goodness can make it a good choice for treating dry skin and other skin conditions like rosacea and eczema as well as anti-aging concerns.

The occlusive properties of Vaseline also have some drawbacks. The water-trapping barrier of Vaseline can also trap any bad bacteria that may already be on the skin, which could cause acne and exacerbate rosacea. Since most occlusives are petroleum-derived ingredients, there are concerns over some of the cancer-causing chemicals found in crude oil that may contaminate petroleum jelly.

open jars.jpg

What Are Some Natural Alternatives to Petroleum Jelly for Slugging Skin?

It’s reasonable to be concerned about the safety of petroleum-based ingredients in your skin care products. After all, petroleum can be refined into gasoline. Thankfully, there are some natural alternatives to Vaseline that we think could be real beauty saviors for slugging, too.

#1: 100% PURE Intensive Nourishing Balm

If you’re looking for the benefits of slugging without the mess and the chemicals from petroleum, this nourishing balm is the key to waking with reborn skin. It features natural occlusive ingredients like avocado and shea butters to reinforce the skin’s barrier.

Our balm is also fortified with non-comedogenic grapeseed and blackcurrant oils to restore and replenish dry skin. Its lightweight formula makes it perfect for slugging, for just about any skin type.

#2: Hydra Drench Cream

While not an occlusive balm, this ultra-lightweight cream with chia seed gel and sodium PCA is the perfect hydration prep before slugging. Layer it underneath your balm to supercharge moisture levels without clogging pores.

#3: Super Fruit Balm

Formulated with antioxidant-rich acai and goji berriesplus nourishing shea butter and grapeseed oilthis balm is a fantastic slugging option for sensitive or dry skin types. It reinforces the skin barrier and reduces redness while delivering ultra-deep hydration.

#4: 100% PURE Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm

This intensely moisturizing nighttime superstar is a game-changer for slugging. This balm includes non-comedogenic avocado butter and organic beeswax, which functions as an occlusive barrier to keep dry skin moisturized without feeling greasy. Vitamin E moisturizes flakes and cracks. Sunflower seed oil and olive oil enhance skin repair so you can wake up to baby-soft skin.

Prep Like a Pro: What to Use Before Slugging”

Slugging works best when applied over clean, hydrated skin. To get the most out of your slugging routine, it’s essential to layer the right products underneath your balm. These hydrating serums and moisturizers from 100% PURE® help prep your skin for the ultimate overnight glow-up.

1. Rose Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Infused with rose hydrosol and hyaluronic acidthis serum draws moisture into the skin and plumps fine lines—perfect for layering before slugging.

2. Hydra Drench Cream

As mentioned above, this lightweight cream with chia seed gel and omega fatty acids quenches thirsty skin without heaviness. Ideal for oily and combo skin types prepping for slugging.

3. Green Tea EGCG Concentrate Cream

Packed with EGCG antioxidants, olive squalaneand yerba matethis cream helps calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier before sealing everything in with a balm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slugging

1. Is slugging good for acne-prone skin?

It depends. If your skin is well-cleansed and you’re using non-comedogenic products underneath, slugging can help lock in hydration and calm irritation. But occlusive layers like Vaseline may trap dirt or bacteria, potentially worsening breakouts. Opt for non-comedogenic alternatives like 100% PURE’s Intensive Nourishing Balm instead.

2. Can I slug every night?

You canbut most skin types don’t need to. Slugging 2–3 times per week is ideal for dry or dehydrated skin. Oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from slugging only during colder months or after skin barrier damage.

3. Should I apply slugging products over serums or moisturizers?

Yes! Slugging is the final step. Think of your balm as a lid: you’ll want to apply all your water-based and active treatments first (like serums and creams), then seal everything in with your balm to prevent moisture loss.

4. What ingredients should I avoid under slugging?

Avoid strong actives like AHAs, BHAsor retinoids under occlusion if you’re new to slugging. These ingredients can become more potent when sealed in, potentially leading to irritation. Stick to calming, hydrating formulas like hyaluronic acid, niacinamideor ceramide-rich moisturizers.

5. Can I use face oils for slugging instead of balm?

Not quite. Face oils are emollientswhich soften and nourish the skin—but they don’t seal in moisture like occlusives. If you’re looking to slug with clean products, go for a balm with beeswax, shea butteror plant waxes like 100% PURE’s Super Fruit Balm.

France Seeks Three-Month Nationwide Suspension of Shein Over Sale of Illegal Products

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THE WHAT? The French government is requesting a court-ordered three-month suspension of Shein’s entire French website after authorities identified the sale of childlike sex dolls and banned weapons on the platform.

THE DETAILS According to the Finance Ministry, France will petition a Paris judge to apply an emergency judicial measure under Article 6.3 of the country’s digital economy law, which enables courts to impose actions preventing harm caused by online content.

Shein disabled its third-party marketplace in France on 5 November after regulators found the prohibited products offered by external sellers, but the company’s main platform—featuring Shein’s own apparel—remains live.

The government is now seeking a full-site suspension to pressure the company into strengthening product oversight and compliance controls. A hearing at the Paris court is scheduled for Wednesday, with Infinite Styles Services Co Ltd, Shein’s Dublin-based European entity, summoned to appear. A ruling is expected in the coming weeks.

THE WHY? French authorities are pursuing the suspension to curb the circulation of illegal and harmful products and compel the platform to improve vetting and enforcement measures.

Source: Reuters

Makeup and Beauty Blog Monday Poll, Vol. 891

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I hope you have a double rainbow kind of day!

So…what is the Monday Poll?

Excellent question! It isn’t, contrary to its name, an actual poll, like with little clicky buttons. It’s just a list of more or less random questions I’ve been posting on this blog every Monday morning for the past quadrillion years (since 2007).

1. Something you need to do for beauty maintenance soon?

Oh boy, my upper lip could use a wax. LOL! If I let it go much further, I’m going to look like a bad guy with a twirly mustache.

2. Something nice that’s beauty-related that you’ve done for yourself recently?

About a month ago, a friend of mine and I went to the Cavallo Point spa in Sausalito. I can’t wait to go back!

3. What’s a word that you like?

Honestly, I have so many. Off the top of my head: jaunt, effervescent, soliloquy.

4. What’s a funny little habit that your pet has?

When Rosie sleeps, she snores loudly. (It wakes me up sometimes.) Marnie likes to bring her favorite tennis ball outside; she doesn’t actually want to play fetch, though. She’ll just carry it and run around.

5. What’s the best Thanksgiving side dish?

Does pecan pie count? Because that’s all I’m interested in, hahaha! If it doesn’t, then I’ll go with mashed potatoes.

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

P.S. Here are the questions to copy/paste with your answers in a comment. Talk to ya soon.

1. Something you need to do for beauty maintenance soon?
2. Something nice that’s beauty-related that you’ve done for yourself recently?
3. What’s a word that you like?
4. What’s a funny little habit that your pet has?
5. What’s the best Thanksgiving side dish?

Why 2025 Is the Year of the Chic Chop – Iles Formula

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2025 has officially crowned the bob haircut as the statement of the year. No longer just a classic, the bob is being reimagined by today’s most iconic women—not as a fallback, but as a bold, expressive style choice.

Pamela Anderson led the charge. Once known for her signature bombshell waves, Pamela surprised the world by chopping her long blonde lengths into a chic bob with soft bangs—and the transformation was nothing short of stunning. The look? Fresh, feminine, and entirely modern. It’s not just a haircut; it’s a declaration of evolution.

A Global Wave of Bobs

Pamela may have sparked the conversation, but she’s far from alone. This year, the bob has taken over red carpets, fashion weeks, and street style feeds. A few notable mentions:

FLORENCE PUGH

Florence Pugh embraced the rebellious side of the bob, rocking an undone micro-bob with tousled texture and choppy edges. It perfectly complements her offbeat style and fearless fashion choices.

TAYLOR RUSSELL

Taylor Russel

Taylor Russellthe darling of high fashion, has been seen sporting a wet-look tucked-under bob—a style that manages to look simultaneously futuristic and classic

THINGS

Zendaya

Zendayaever the chameleon, turned heads at Paris Couture Week with a sharp, French-inspired blunt bob that framed her face with effortless sophistication.

Why the Bob Now?

The bob’s resurgence isn’t just a trend—it’s a reflection of the cultural mood. There’s a collective shedding of excess, a desire for freedom, refinement, and intentional simplicity. After years of beachy waves, curtain fringes, and layered length, women are embracing the strength and confidence of a cut that makes a statement without needing to scream.

In 2025, the bob is:

  • Powerful – it reveals the face, jawline, and expression.

  • Versatile – from polished to punk, there’s a bob for every personality.

  • Low Maintenance – with the proper cut and high-performance products, styling is minimal yet effective.

  • Eternally Chic – think of it as your beauty reset button.

HAILEY BIEBER

Hailey Bieber

photo from @haileybieber

Hailey Bieber swapped her beachy length for a sleek chin-length bobpaired with luminous skin and minimalist fashion—a visual reset that’s become her signature 2025 look.

GIGI HADID

Gigi Hadid

HAILEE STEINFIELD

The more extended version bob, known as the Riviera bob, worn by Hailee is quite glamorous with its low side part, top volume and rounded ends.

Hailee Steinfield

Styling the Modern Bob

At Iles Formulawe see the bob as a canvas for hair health and shine. Whether worn air-dried with soft waves or smoothed to a glossy finish, the secret to an unforgettable bob is care:

  • The Iles Formula Finishing Serum is a must—heat protectant, humidity shield, and shine-enhancer in one. If heat-activated, it’s known to transform dull hair to a lustrous spun silk texture.

  • Add serum to wet hair before blow-drying to create that organic volume Pamela’s new bob is already becoming known for.

  • Use a round brush to bevel under or go sleek with a flat iron—our formulas protect and define, no matter your finish.

In Summary: The Bob Reclaims Its Crown

If you’ve been flirting with the idea of a chop, 2025 is your year. The bob isn’t just a haircut—it’s a mood. It’s the reinvention of beauty on your own terms.

From Pamela’s powerful pivot to the runway-ready cuts seen on today’s fashion icons, the bob is reclaiming its throne with grace and edge.

Ready to make the cut?

What are Style Foundations and why are they so important?

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Your Style Foundations. They are literally what they say on the tin. They are the foundations you should be using to make every. single. decision related to your style.

They are the building blocks for understanding your own, unique personal style.

They are the filters that help weed through all the overwhelm when it comes to fashion, and style and shopping and all of that.

They are my number one stop, and the most important tool I use when working with every single styling client.

Cool but what exactly are they? I hear you say…

Let’s break them down. There are THREE fundamental Style Foundations;

  1. Your colour palette
  2. Your body’s proportions and best bits
  3. Your style personality

Let’s look a little bit more at each of them and why they are important.

1. Colour Palette

Having your “colours done” was a big thing in the 80’s, (Colour Me Beautiful anyone?) and now thanks to TikTok, its having a moment again.

But colour has always been a tool that stylists have used to help clients find the best pieces for them. I use two spectrums: warm to cool tones, and muted through to dominant intensity.

So when I talk about colour with my clients, it less about  “oh honey, don’t wear red”. I hate restricting people when it comes to their style. And more about understanding where you sit on the colour spectrums, as it can really help shop more efficiently and make your wardrobe work harder for you, in a few ways.

  • Narrowing down options when you go shopping. If you know what colours to look for in-store, it makes the whole experience less overwhelming. Know your best colours can immediately eliminate 1/2 a store potentially. Colour is also a very useful first search tool. It’s the easiest thing to see on a shop floor, so use your colours to find the pieces you want to try on. It will save a bunch of time!
  • Knowing how to mix and match your existing wardrobe. Colour in the same colour palette will most likely work together, so if you’re purchasing within your ideal colour palette, the chances of everything mixing and matching well are much, much higher.
  • Understanding your best colours can help cull some of the pieces in your wardrobe that you’re not wearing…. You might not even realise you don’t wear something because it’s not your ideal colour. But often there are 2 reasons why this is the case. 1. it just doesn’t look as good on you. 2. its really hard to match it back with anything else in your wardrobe because it doesn’t play well with the other colours you own.

2. Your body’s proportions and best bits

Again, this is not so much about pigeon-holing you into a body type (although that can still be really helpful for some people!) and more about understanding your own unique proportions and also being able to identify, and dress to, your own best bits.

Dressing well is 100& dressing to highlight your best bits, rather than dressing to hide the bits you’re not so keen on.

If you can identify the parts of your body you’re the MOST confident in drawing attention to, and then dressing to do just that, you’re always going to feel good in what you wear.

Note: when I say “draw attention to, that doesn’t always mean “reveal”. My legs are one of my best bits, but I love a wide leg pant as much as a short skirt – BOTH draw attention to that area, just in different ways.

Understanding how clothes fit on your unique body is one of the simplest ways to define your style. If something doesn’t look good on you, simply don’t wear it – trends be damned! Yet if you LOVE something, flog it as much as your can, regardless of what anyone else is wearing.

3. Your Style Personality.

This is by FAR the most important of your Stlyle Foundations as far as I’m concerned. Your Style Personality is a collection of words, that as a collective, describe your personal style (or where you’d like it to be). I get my clients to think of three words that represent the style they want to have.

My three style personality words are FEMININE | EDGY | ELEVATED. They define not only everything I purchase but also HOW I put all my outfits together.

For example, if I’m wearing quite a feminine, pretty dress, I immediately want to add some edge with a shoe choice – I’l add some Converse high tops, or some studded sandals, rather than adding a girly heel or ballet flats. To elevate, a blazer, or jacket just lifts the look, or I’ll add an unexpected colour combo that most people wouldn’t wear to make my outfit stand out just a little.

Pinterest is a great tool when discovering, or re-assessing your Style Personality. It’s a great way to visually express things you like, and group them together in the boards to give you some clarity around your own sense of style.

How to USE your Style Foundations effectively

Now that you have more of an understanding of what your Style Foundations are, EVERY style decision you make, going forward, should be based on these three frameworks.

Use them as filters;

When you’re cleaning out your wardrobe:

  • do the clothes you have fit within your colour palette, are they easy to all match back together?
  • do your clothes do the best for your body shape, do they highlight the good bits, or are they there to hide things?
  • do your existing clothes match at least ONE of your Style Personality words?

When you’re shopping:

  • Start by using your colour palette as the visual filter. Only look at pieces that sit somewhere in your range.
  • Assess if things you try on define your best bits.
  • Is what you’re purchasing a reflection of these words

When you’re putting outfits together:

  • Are you playing with matching colours in your palette? Or are you defaulting to ‘black and…”
  • Can you tweak things to draw attention TO your good bits. Do you need to tuck something in? Or roll the sleeves or hem up, or elongate your body with a vetical line?
  • Are ALL THREE of your Style Personality words reflected in the look you’ve created?

Still stuck on understanding your own, unique Style Foundations? Well the good news is I can help with that! I offer a Style Foundations Package, no matter where you are based, that is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding about what your individual style foundations are.

FIND MORE INFO HERE

I hope that helps explain a little more about what your Style Foundations are and WHY they are so useful when it comes to understanding your own style.

P.S. Are you ready to step into your style with confidence?….here are 3 ways I can help you to get started :

1. book a FREE 30 minute style consultation to chat about how I can help you elevate your everyday style – BOOK HERE

2. Join The Style Circle – my monthly styling membership and get an all access pass to me – JOIN HERE

3. Ready to work with me? This is your official invitation to work with me this year. To step into your style with confidence CLICK HERE

The Best Facial in New York: Why Celebrities Swear by Joanna Vargas Sp

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Ever wondered how celebrities maintain flawless skin despite long flights, late nights, and red-carpet events? The secret isn’t filters or genetics — it’s Joanna Vargas Spa. Known as the ultimate destination for glowing, camera-ready skin, this New York institution has become synonymous with innovation, luxury, and visible results.

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Joanna Vargas Spa blends science, nature, and artistry — the same formula that has earned Joanna her reputation as one of the most sought-after facialists in the world.


Where Red-Carpet Radiance Is Made

From A-list actors to top models and editors, the Joanna Vargas facial is a beauty industry legend. Every treatment is customized to your skin’s unique needscombining advanced technology with plant-powered skincare for results that are immediate, lasting, and real.

Clients rave that every facial feels indulgent, yet purposeful — leaving skin visibly smoother, hydrated, and radiant. Whether prepping for a high-profile event or maintaining everyday glow, Joanna’s approach ensures your skin always looks its best.


Signature Treatments You’ll Fall in Love With

The Triple Crown Classic

Lift | Sculpt | Glow
A celebrity favorite, this facial combines advanced microcurrent technology with expert sculpting massage to tone, depuff, and contour the face — delivering the iconic “Joanna Vargas glow”.

The Twilight Facial

Resurface | Tighten | Even Tone
For next-level rejuvenation, this treatment merges radio frequency with microneedling to refine texture, reduce pigmentation, and firm the skin. A true red-carpet essential praised by beauty editors.

The Fire & Ice Facial

Resurface | Hydrate | Brighten
A dual-phase powerhouse: a mild glycolic peel (“Fire”) resurfaces and smooths, followed by a soothing botanical mask (“Ice”) to hydrate and calm. Instant radiance with zero downtime.

The Oxygen Purifying Facial

Detoxify | Hydrate | Revive
Ideal for congested or dull skin, this facial infuses medical-grade oxygen to plump, hydrate, and purify — leaving skin luminous and refreshed, ready for anything.


A Philosophy That Goes Beyond Skincare

At Joanna Vargas Spa, the mission is simple: help clients feel as good as they look. Every treatment combines cutting-edge technology with clean, nutrient-rich ingredientscreating a luxurious experience that delivers visible results without harsh chemicals or downtime.

From the moment you enter, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of calm sophistication: soft lighting, soothing scents, and expert hands that intuitively understand your skin.


Why It’s the Best Facial in New York

  • Celebrity-Tested, Esthetician-Approved: Trusted by Hollywood’s elite for visible, camera-ready results.

  • Customizable Treatments: Every facial is tailored to your skin type and goals.

  • Clean, High-Performance Skincare: Powered by Joanna Vargas’s award-winning line, including Vitamin C Face Wash, Eden Niacinamide Calming Serum, and Twilight Night Cream.

  • Instant + Long-Term Results: Leave glowing — and stay that way.


Book Your Appointment

Experience why Joanna Vargas is synonymous with glowing, healthy, youthful skin.

Book your treatment today at the Joanna Vargas New York Spa — or explore the full range of Joanna Vargas skincare to bring the spa experience home.

Your red-carpet skin starts here.