Expecting Better: Why The Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong Book Review

Posted on April 8, 2015 by Catherine Balavage

Expecting Better: Why The Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong created a huge amount of buzz when it was released, and rightly so. Women’s bodies are always political minefields. Everything from our breasts to our rights to abortion are subject to scrutiny and sexism. No more so is this true than when a woman is pregnant. Everyone has an opinion on what you should eat, on what you should do. The amount of unsolicited advice is irritating and the amount of judgement from the conception all the way to how you give birth can be overwhelming. God forbid that people live and let live.

Which is why I love this book. Emily Oster is an associate producer of economics at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She has done her research and has the facts. That is the thing with facts: you can’t argue with them. I mean, people will try but the truth is the truth. Let’s start with caffeine and alcohol. Women are told to limit caffeine and not drink during pregnancy. Coffee allegedly causes a rise in miscarriage. But as Oster says:

“Women who drink coffee tend to be older so is it the coffee or is it the maternal age?”

On alcohol she says: “In continental Europe women drink wine when pregnant and there is no evidence at all that there children are not as smart as American children or have any other health problems. In fact there is no evidence of more foetal alcohol syndrome in continental Europe; if anything, rates are higher in the United States. This is interesting as any drinking is frowned upon in the US whilst in continental Europe before are less judgemental.

Ultimately I concluded that these recommendations were not just very cautious, they were too cautious. In moderation, pregnant women should feel comfortable with both alcohol and caffeine.

For alcohol, this means up to one drink a day in the second and third trimester, and a couple of drinks a week in the first. In fact, for the most part studies fail to show negative effects on babies even at levels higher than this. By a drink here I mean a standard drink – 120 millilitres of wine, 30 millilitres of hard spirits, 350 millilitres of beer.”

Considering that a recent legal test case brought by a council tried to pass a law in the UK to make it illegal for women to drink in pregnancy at all, that speaks volume. Women are not trusted with their own bodies and decisions. As Oster puts it “This feels like pregnant women are not given any more credit than children would be in making important decisions.” Quite.

My review of Osters book could go on for thousands more words. Instead I will say: buy it. If you are pregnant, buy it. If you have a pregnant friend, buy if for them. It is the essential pregnancy book. Emily Oster should be applauded for her excellent work and research. This book is groundbreaking, fascinating and practical. I loved it and I could not recommend it more. Steven D. Levitt, the co-author of the brilliant Freakonomics, said this book ‘may be the most important book about pregnancy you read.’ There is no ‘may’ about it. Read it.

Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know is available here.

What Are Those Floaters In Your Eye? The Amoeba In Your Eye Explained

Posted on April 7, 2015 by Frostie

Every see something float along your vision and wonder what the hell it is? The floating amoeba-shaped things are usually there after looking at a bright light. These are called floaters and if you ever wanted to know more about them then watch this amazing TED-education video from Michael Mauser called What are those floaty things in your eye? Watch and learn.

Mother-of-Three Proudly Displays Her Stretch Marks in Viral Picture

Posted on April 2, 2015 by Catherine Balavage

In an empowering move, lifestyle blogger Rachel Hollis posted a picture of herself wearing a bikini in an uplifting photo post on her Facebook page.. She was tired of worrying about the stretchmarks left on her body after three pregnancies with ‘huge’ babies. The picture soon went viral.

Looking amazing and with a wide, beautiful, smile the photo of Hollis has been liked over 465,000 times and shared over 62,000 times. Many other mothers are posting pictures of their own mummy tummies below. The photo, along with the inspiring statement has gathered a lot of support from other women. This is what Hollis said:

“I wear a bikini because I’m proud of this body and every mark on it…It’s never ever going to be like a Victoria’s Secret model, but I think I look good and my husband wants to make out with me, so I’m doing something right.”

I have stretch marks and I wear a bikini. I have a belly that’s permanently flabby from carrying three giant babies and…

Posted by The Chic Site on Saturday, 21 March 2015

I have stretch marks and I wear a bikini. I have a belly that’s permanently flabby from carrying three giant babies and I wear a bikini. My belly button is saggy… (which is something I didn’t even know was possible before!!) and I wear a bikini. I wear a bikini because I’m proud of this body and every mark on it. Those marks prove that I was blessed enough to carry my babies and that flabby tummy means I worked hard to lose what weight I could. I wear a bikini because the only man who’s opinion matters knows what I went through to look this way. That same man says he’s never seen anything sexier than my body, marks and all. They aren’t scars ladies, they’re stripes and you’ve earned them. Flaunt that body with pride! ‪#‎HollisHoliday‬

What do you think?

Boux Avenue Summer Launch Pool Party In The Heart Of Mayfair … A Night Of Blinis And Bikinis

Posted on March 31, 2015 by Corinne Tuddenham-Finn

Lingerie, swimwear and nightwear brand Boux Avenue and business owner Theo Paphitis, celebrated their Summer Launch in style last week at the Haymarket Hotel in Mayfair.
Celebrities including Vogue Williams, Ola Jordan, Rebecca Ferguson and many more enjoyed ‘Boux on the Beach’ cocktails by the beautiful candle lit pool, whilst listening to summer beats by DJs Charlotte De Carle and Becca Dudley.
The brand’s gorgeous summer collection was showcased at the party, which included their beautiful swimwear collection featuring key trends for the season including neon tones, cutesy florals and beach-ready tropical prints plus cover ups to match.
Guests were also treated to an exclusive preview of the brands new Summer TV ad, which is set to be aired this April.

Celebrity guests included Chloe Lewis, Lauren Goodger, ex Big Brother’s Bit On Side presenter AJ Odudu, Lilah Parsons, Ashley James, Rebecca Ferguson and Brian McFadden’s wife, Vogue Williams,

Made In Chelsea’s Ollie Locke arrived with girlfriend Catherine Louise Radford.

Charlotte de Carle, Lizzie Cundy, Hatty Keane and Scottish R&B singer Tallia Storm looked thrilled with their Boux Avenue gift bags.

SMC_3759

So, what can we expect from Boux Avenue this spring and summer?

From flattering tankinis to stylish kaftans, head off
to your dream destination with the latest styles from
the Boux Avenue swimwear collection. Their bikinis are holiday
must-haves, from halter necks and multiways to
bandeaus in prints that sizzle, you’re sure to be spoilt
for choice. Their cup-sized bikinis in 32A-40G (B cups
start with 28 underbands), and many DD+ swimwear
styles will have you dreaming of the beach in no time.

About Boux Avenue…

Boux Avenue is a sparkling new lingerie brand that you can find online and at 24 stores across the country.

Born out of a love for lingerie, nightwear, swimwear and all things romantic, with a desire to bring traditional service, superior fit and outstanding quality to a modern and beautiful setting, Boux Avenue is a luxurious shopping haven.

With an unrivalled eye for detail, passion for gorgeousness and design flair that will bring romance, seduction and a little slice of style to your boudoir, Boux Avenue aims to make love happen with an aspirational blend of nostalgic and contemporary design.

Boux Avenue is inclusive and for everybody, no matter what your age, size or style, creating irresistible lingerie and nightwear that will compel the desire to look, touch, feel and of course, wear.

www.bouxavenue.com

@BouxAvenue

About the Haymarket Hotel, Mayfair…

Housed in a smart Regency building, this ritzy boutique hotel puts you in the heart of London’s theatre-land. It’s a 5-minute walk to Charing Cross or Piccadilly Circus, giving you a choice of Tube lines. The flagship stores along Regent Street are all within a mile.
Art on your doorstep
You’ll be just a few blocks from the National Gallery at Trafalgar Square, and a 15-minute stroll from both the Royal Academy and the Courtauld Gallery. Need a rest? Rent a deck chair at nearby St James’s Park.
Making an impression
Guests at Haymarket Hotel rave about pretty much everything, from the staff and impeccable 24-hour room service to the chic fabrics and furniture. You can enjoy a drink by the glamorous pool, from the library’s honor bar, or in trendy Brumus Bar & Restaurant.
Comfy beds and linens
Rooms and suites are stylish, spacious, and quiet (windows are double glazed). Guests love the comfy beds, Frette linens, and bespoke Miller Harris toiletries. On the entertainment front, you’ll have free WiFi, a flat-screen LCD TV, an iPod dock, and a DVD/CD player.

Top Model UK And Top Model Worldwide – Season 8 Finals … The Main Event!

Posted on March 28, 2015 by Corinne Tuddenham-Finn

Promising a night of new talent, the finalists of Top Model UK and Top Model Worldwide were placed under the spotlight with a spectacular finals weekend of stunning runway shows and awards at The Hilton London Metropole.

The Top Model (www.topmodeluk.com) professional model search campaign is now in its 8th hugely successful year and in 2011, expanded into the international market with Top Model Worldwide (www.topmodelworldwide.com).
The 2015 campaigns reached their climax on March 13th and 14th 2015 whereupon 130 UK and 44 international finalists took part in three sold-out shows over two days, featuring 10 top designers, the finalists having been selected from over 4,000 entry applications through a series of auditions and interviews.

The competition drew the attention of the international press, together with a generous gathering of modelling cognoscenti who had given support and advice to the contestants.

With over 600 guests in place, lights down and music up, models sashayed in turn along the catwalk, communicating enthusiasm and nerves but above all the determination to become an award-winner in Top Model UK and Top Model Worldwide.

Over 50 awards were presented an the full list of award recipients can be found online at www.topmodeluk.com/the2015results
Proudly holding aloft trophies at the end of the evening were the main title award winners:
Georgia Butler (Editorial) Norwich
Jack Parr (Men) Leeds
Ellie Sammer (Commercial) Lancashire
Mica Brown (Over 25’s) Buckinghamshire
Tanisha Downing (Natural Beauty) Doncaster
Maryna Omolchenko (Worldwide) Ukraine

In addition to the stunning glass trophies and award titles, the prize pool included:
International travel
Beauty products
Goodie bags
Professional photographic shoots
Free styling and haircuts
Pamper breaks
Agency signings
London Fashion Week opportunities… and more!

Grand finalist recruitment for Top Model takes place over a four-five month period between July and December each year, with the Top Model team searching the length and breadth of the UK, and internationally, for the best new up-and-coming model talent.
Top Model is not a beauty pageant but prides itself on a pure model search ethos. All of the top prizes and opportunities for the finalists and award winners are focused on the fashion, beauty and model industries. The grand finalist selections and the awards are all decided by industry experts, not by public voting, with top couture designers and brands from around the world dressing the eventual finalists in professionally produced, fully choreographed runway show finals.
In addition to Top Model being a major UK and International model search, each year, Top Model adopts a chosen charity to support. For 2015, Top Model once again supported leading childhood cancer charity CHILDREN with CANCER UK (www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk), raising over £22,000 from the 2015 search and having amassed an impressive £75,000+ over six years.

Not only was it a night that paid tribute to UK and worldwide’s emerging, already blooming fashion industry, re-affirming its positive image, but discovered new talent in a fiercely competitive and febrile world of modelling, proving that with careful nurturing and professional motivation and guidance, the dream of becoming a Top Model can become a reality…

About Top Model UK and Top Model Worldwide…

Top Model is THE original No.1 leading professional model search competition in the UK and has been discovering new model talent and creating dreams for almost a decade. In addition to the fabulous opportunities that competition selection can bring for applicants, the chance to win a host of top awards and fabulous prizes also awaits those fortunate enough to make it through to the national Grand Finals.

The Top Model experienced team of industry professionals have an unrivalled and proven track record, providing top-level coaching, genuine guidance and professional support for all the finalists.

Applications for Top Model 2016 will be accepted online from July 2015.

Email: info@topmodeluk.com and info@topmodelworldwide.com

@TopModelUK

About Hilton London Metropole…

Hilton London Metropole is centrally located near many attractions including Madame Tussauds, the Sherlock Holmes Museum and Oxford Street shopping. Take a two minute walk to Edgware Road stations which service the District, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Bakerloo underground lines. Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station or to Heathrow Airport, only 15 minutes away.

As one of Europe’s largest conference hotels, this central London hotel provides 42 fully-equipped meeting rooms and 4,300 sq. m of event space.

Take in panoramic views of London from a Deluxe Room or choose one of London’s largest double bed rooms, the Superior Room, which is spacious enough for families or a group of friends. Upgrade to an Executive Room or Suite for access to the Executive Lounge. Book direct with Hilton.com and receive complimentary WiFi, enabling you to download, stream or browse and check emails.

Start the morning with an extensive breakfast buffet featuring an egg station, hot and cold items, baked goods, fruit and more. Dine on international cuisine at Fiamma Restaurant, or try Asian fusion dishes with views of London in Minako at the Met. Relax at the Sports Bar, sample a variety of whiskies at the Whisky Lounge, or visit the contemporary EDG Bar & Lounge before venturing out into London’s nightlife.

This London hotel’s LivingWell Health Club boasts Hilton Fitness weight machines and cardio equipment.

225 Edgware Road, London, W2 1JU, United Kingdom TEL: +44-207-402-4141 FAX: +44-207-616-7313

http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/united-kingdom/hilton-london-metropole-LONMETW/index.html

www.corinne-modelling.co.uk

Harvey Nichols (Knightsbridge) Presents A 4-day ‘Festival of Style’ Event Featuring Jessie Ware…

Posted on March 24, 2015 by Corinne Tuddenham-Finn

Harvey Nichols is kicking off the Festival Season in style by celebrating some of the most iconic festivals across its landmark luxury shopping mecca.

Customers are invited to indulge in seven fabulous festivals over four days, culminating in the coolest money-can’t-buy gig from the hottest artist of the moment Jessie Ware.
Each of the floors have been transformed – immerse yourself in Field Day fashion on the Fourth Floor, channel cool Coachella vibes on Third, take respite amidst the mystical Secret Garden Party surroundings on Second, dazzle amidst the elegant Serpentine Summer party on First, discover the best Bestival buys on Ground, and experience a Wilderness world on Lower Grounds 1 & 2. To avoid festival fatigue, take the Express Lift up to Fifth for a celebration of Taste of London summer indulgence; spread over every floor, Harvey Nichols’ Festival of Style runs from March 26-29 exclusive to the Knightsbridge store.

The four day Festival of Style offers an extravaganza of festival activity from exclusive pop ups, in
store theatre, DJs across every floor, and a wealth of promotions and services from Womenswear,
Menswear, Beauty and Food & Hospitality. Experience the exclusive House of Peroni Vita Al Fresco
summer terrace, indulge in a Bottomless Brunch, be styled to perfection with the Style Concierge
Stations, drop by the braiding station and showcase within the Slow Motion Hair Flick Photo Booth,
or learn the art of packing the perfect picnic from their Concierge team, all surrounded by the latest
tunes and must-have brands. Anything is possible once you step inside the wonderfully stylish
Festival of Style.

Harvey Nichols says of launching Festival of Style: “Renowned for our perfect blend of insouciant
style, exclusive designer edits and ever-playful spirit, Harvey Nichols is offering customers a fully
immersive festival experience, celebrating style in all its glory for the coming season. We are bringing
summer style to our flagship store early this year, culminating in an unforgettable night of music with
Jessie Ware to say thank you to our fearlessly stylish and loyal customers.”

Coming to Harvey Nichols from Thursday March 26:
FIFTH FLOOR – TASTE OF LONDON INDULGENCE
The Money-Can’t-Buy Gig
For one spectacular night only, the Harvey Nichols Fifth Floor Restaurant will be transformed into an
intimate gig venue with an exclusive performance from smoking hot singer of the moment Jessie
Ware. Tickets to this money-can’t-buy event will be available to win exclusively with any purchase
made at the flagship store and, with only 150 pairs up for grabs in the prize draw, it’s sure to be the
hottest ticket in town. The exclusive gig will mark the pinnacle of the four day Festival of Style
celebration; hotfoot it down to their flagship store from March 26 to be in with a chance of winning
your pass to a truly unforgettable evening.

House of Peroni Vita Al Fresco
Kicking off Festival of Style, Peroni Nastro Azzurro brings a taste of stylish contemporary Italian life
to Harvey Nichols as the Fifth Floor terrace is transformed into a stunning al fresco veranda.
Customers can kick back and relax after an afternoon of shopping as they enjoy Peroni Nastro
Azzurro infused drinks and the most delicious plates of Italian aperitivo influenced by classic Italian
street food and created by critically acclaimed chefs from Bottega Wapping. This culinary indulgence
will take place amid a stunning flower garden haven, filled with the sounds and scents of Italy in
springtime.

Bottomless Brunch
Celebrate the new season in style with an indulgent all-you-can-eat Bottomless Brunch up on the
Fifth Floor. With your choice of ten summer sharing dishes specially created by the Head Chef,
unlimited own label champagne and fresh fruit bellinis, take your pick from dining within their café,
restaurant or champagne bar and enter the draw to be in with a chance of winning tickets to the
exclusive gig with Jessie Ware.

Picnic Concierge
Need help pairing the crispest Sauvignon with the finest smoke salmon? Create your perfect picnic
feast with Harvey Nichols’ new Picnic Concierge located on the Fifth Floor. Our team of advisors will
provide tips on how to prepare the most stylish of hampers with matching wine pairings and
complimentary tastings throughout the festival.

Havana Club Cocktail Masterclass
Calling all budding mixologists – Harvey Nichols invites you to come and create the newest in season
summer cocktails courtesy of Havana Club at their Fifth Floor Champagne Bar. Become the perfect
hostess with the help of expert mixologists who will be holding complimentary 15 minute
masterclasses, showcasing the latest cocktail trends for SS15.

FOURTH FLOOR – FIELD DAY FIERCE
Summer Style Concierge Stations
To celebrate the launch of Style Concierge, an expert team of stylists will cut a stylish dash to their
pop up Style Stations to attend to your every fashion want and need for the duration of Festival of
Style. The team will be on hand to talk through their SS15 buy and discuss the latest trends to ensure
you are summer ready right now. Daily fashion shows modelling the latest mens and womenswear
collections from will also be taking place within the flagship store throughout the day.

Festival Hair Style Stations
Keeping your hair festival-ready throughout the summer festivities is an art form in itself. Learn the
tricks of the trade for style longevity with a SHOW Beauty bar and Kesh Braids bar and master the art
of minimal effort for maximum show-stopping style.

Slow Motion Hair Flick Photo Booth
Capture your festival mane in all its glossy glory with the Slow Motion Hair Flick Photo Booth.
Created using the latest advanced high speed technology, the booth is designed to showcase your
most stylish swish in high definition. Create a 6 second slow motion video in the specially-designed
booth, record, review, upload and share using #HarveyNicholsHairFlick and watch admirers swoon
with each flick.

THIRD FLOOR – COACHELLA VIBES
EXCLUSIVE Hook LDN Launch
London-based premium eyewear brand Hook LDN launches exclusively into Harvey Nichols on March
26 with a pop up on Third Floor. The unisex brand of the moment will showcase their new line of
opticals and sunglasses in time for the festival season.

Selfie Style Snaps
Perfect the art of the Selfie whilst shopping in store to be in with a chance of winning tickets to the
exclusive Jessie Ware gig. Simply snap a picture of your fabulous self with your new season
purchases, upload via social media using #FestivalofStyle and be entered into a prize draw to attend
the one-off Jessie Ware performance on Sunday March 29.

Hunter Pop Up
What would a festival be without the now iconic Hunter welly? Put your most fearlessly stylish foot
forward with the Harvey Nichols Buyers’ edit of the latest Hunter offering for SS15.

Nails Inc Blossom Bar
To celebrate their new SS15 collection, Nails Inc will be positioned on Third Floor offering
complimentary manicures with any purchase from the new Blossom and The New White collections.
And, to get your tootsies tingling, they are also offering £10.00 off a Nails Inc pedicure with any
purchase made within the ladies shoe department from March 26 – end May 2015.

Beauty Concierge
New to Harvey Nichols, Beauty Concierge offers customers an impeccable, unbiased service for
every beauty want and need. Whatever the query, the finest Beauty Advisors will be on hand to
ensure you receive unrivalled expert advice and an unforgettable beauty experience. Their new
Custom Blend Lipstick service is available exclusively through Beauty Concierge.

Joe & Seph’s Pop Up Popcorn & Snowflake Gelato
Get into the festival spirit whilst shopping the latest Leisurewear edit with pop up gourmet popcorn
and luxury gelato stations located across the Third Floor.

STYLondon Tattoos
Add a fun finishing touch to your festival styling with STYLondon metallic transfer tattooing station.

SECOND FLOOR – SECRET GARDEN PARTY
Nestled within the exotic climes of the Second Floor, step inside the summer garden party and take
respite from the hustle and bustle with a refreshing summer Pimms from the Pimms Bicycle paired
with delicious scones and delicate cucumber sandwiches.

The Flower Appreciation Society
Independent Hackney-based florists The Flower Appreciation Society will be stationed in store
offering beautifully handpicked complimentary bouquets with any purchase made in store to the
value of £200 or more.

FIRST FLOOR – SERPENTINE SUMMER PARTY
Jonathan Saunders SS15 Q&A
Celebrated designer Jonathan Saunders arrives in store on Thursday 26, 2-4pm to host a one-off
style seminar to coincide with his latest SS15 collection.

Live SS15 Fashion Shows
Showcasing the SS15 style offering, models will walk the floor throughout the event with four daily
fashion shows presenting their Buyers’ picks of the new collections for Spring Summer Womenswear
and Menswear.

GROUND FLOOR – BESTIVAL BRILLIANCE
Louise O’Keeffe Fashion Illustration
Capture your most stylish in store purchases in print with London-based visual artist of the moment,
Louise O’Keeffe. Louise will be stationed in store for four days, offering customers the chance to be
sketched along with their buys across Accessories and Beauty; beautiful hand drawn prints to
cherish – what’s not to love?

Emotional Baggage Personalisation
Blur the lines between art and fashion and customise your festival look with beautiful hand painted
embossing courtesy of Emotional Baggage. The full collection of one-off vintage designer bags
launches into our flagship store for the duration of Festival of Style. Bring in your chosen tote to be
customised or purchase new in store and bag a unique object of desire ahead of the summer season.

LIMITED EDITION Harvey Nichols SS15 Gift with Purchase
Not your ordinary gift with purchase, Harvey Nichols’ now legendary limited edition offering for SS15
arrives this March. Spend just £150 on two or more items across fragrance, skincare of cosmetics in
store or online and receive £240.00 worth of treats from some of the most sought after brands in
the business.

LOWER GROUND – WILDERNESS WARES
The Modern Menswear Wardrobe with David Hellqvist
The epitome of English sartorial style, renowned journalist David Hellqvist arrives in store to host
The Modern Menswear Wardrobe – a series of seriously stylish masterclasses from the best in the
business. Offering styling tips and advice on how to dress to impress, you would be mad to miss such
words of wisdom from a true style icon.

Exclusive John Elliott + Co Launch
The latest cult brand you need to know – John Elliott + Co – has arrived exclusively at Harvey Nichols
on Lower Ground Floor. The future classic menswear collection consists of clean lines and modern
minimalism with an innovate twist; the go-to brand for style-conscious gents.

adidas Originals = PHARRELL WILLIAMS Launch
The epitome of original style and creativity, adidas has paired up with Pharrell Williams to showcase
a range of specially-designed adidas originals, landing at Harvey Nichols this month within the new
adidas shop-in-shop.

Refuel Brands Cap Customisation
Aaron Saunders of Refuel Brands will be in store on Saturday March 28 with a Cap Customisation
station. The premium streetwear brand will be offering a customisation service throughout Festival
of Style to spark an injection of street style to your headwear summer staple.

Shoe Shine Station
Show your shoes a little TLC with a pit stop at our complimentary Shoe Shine Station located on the
Lower Ground Floor.

Haig Club Whisky Pop Up
Smooth, sophisticated and stylish – new scotch whisky brand of the moment, Haig Club, fronted by
David Beckham, has landed at Harvey Nichols. Take respite from shopping the floors at their pop up
station located on the Lower Ground Floor.

#FestivalofStyle

 Tickets to the Jessie Ware gig on Sunday March 29, 8pm at Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge will be
available to win exclusively with any purchase made at the flagship store from Thursday March 26 –
Saturday March 28. No minimum spend.
 The House of Peroni Summer Terrace will be open daily from Friday March 27 until Sunday May 24
 Bottomless Brunch is available daily from 11am-3pm, Thursday 26 – Sunday March 29. £65.00.
Available to book online or by phone from Friday March 20. Tel: 020 7235 5250
 Picnic Concierge is available within the Fifth Floor Concierge
 Havana Club Cocktail Masterclasses: complimentary drop-in 15 minute classes will take place within
the Champagne Bar, 12.30pm, 1pm & 1.30pm
 Summer Style Concierge Stations are located across every floor
 To book a complimentary appointment with Beauty Concierge, please email:
beautyconcierge@harveynichols.com Tel: 020 7201 8688 mob: 07860 754111
 Custom Blend Lipstick is available through Third Floor Beauty Concierge. £60.00 for two products
 SS15 Fashion Shows take place four times per day throughout Festival of Style. 12, 2, 4 & 6pm
showings, located on First Floor
 SS15 GWP is available throughout stores Nationwide and online. Spend £150 to receive SS15 GWP
worth £240.00

About Harvey Nichols Group:
Harvey Nichols is the world’s leading luxury retailer, renowned for its exclusive edit of the most prestigious
brands across womenswear, menswear, accessories, beauty, food and wine.
Founded in 1831, today Harvey Nichols has stores in London, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham,
Leeds and a dedicated beauty store Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols in Liverpool. Outside of the UK stores
include Dublin in the Republic of Ireland and in ternationally Riyadh, Hong Kong, Dubai, Istanbul, Ankara and
Kuwait.
Further information on Harvey Nichols can be found on the website www.harveynichols.com.

Caudalie UK Polyphenol C15 Review

Posted on March 18, 2015 by Catherine Balavage

Above is the video of my life. It is not all work and no play: nothing beats a cosy weekend lie-in expect maybe a catch up with your friends. Live 1,000 lives in one, moving from one turbo-charged day to the next. You can create your own personalised movie of your life with the awesome Caudalie app here and then share it with your friends. You will also have the chance to enter a competition to win an Anti-Ox Box, which include deluxe sizes of the entire Polyphenol C15 range. So what are you waiting for? I tag my friend Paola Berta to do her own video.

Caudalie launched a new anti-oxidant, anti-wrinkle, skincare range called Polyphenol C15 in 2014. Developed for busy, urban women with fast paced life. Pollution, stress and an unhealthy lifestyle are the daily factors which cause free radical damage and lead to skin ageing. I reviewed their Broad Spectrum SPF20 Anti-Wrinkle Protect Fluid, Anti-Wrinkle Protect Cream Broad Spectrum SPF20, Anti-Wrinkle Defense Serum and Anti-Wrinkle Eye & Lip Cream.

The active ingredients in this skincare range are a combination of the two most effective antioxidants on the market, Grape-seed Polyphenols (a Caudalie patent) and stabilised Vitamin C. Starting from 30 the skin begins to age. The skin weakens, draw from its reserves and takes longer to recover completely. In short, it oxidises. Great. So far so depressing. The good news though is that with Polyphenol C15 the skin cells are completely repaired and protected. Can the products help? Let’s find out.

Broad Spectrum SPF20 Anti-Wrinkle Protect Fluid

I am obsessed with SPF. I wear it everyday. Even in winter. I think this has helped as many people think I am younger than I am. This awesome multi-purpose product is an anti-oxidant shield and keeps skin protected all day long. It works on existing wrinkles and stops new ones forming over time. It is also a broad spectrum sunscreen. What more could you want?

Anti-Wrinkle Protect Cream Broad Spectrum SPF20

Uses Grape-seed, Polyphenols and stabilised Vitamin C to give a plump, hydrated skin. It neutralises day-to-day attacks, plumps skin and restores lipid balance. This is a great cream that smells great and protects against dehydration lines and skin tightness. It treats dry skin, as well as protecting skin against daily aggressors. I love it.

Anti-Wrinkle Defense Serum

This is the product with the highest concentrate of Polyphenol C15 in the entire range. It is deep and intense to correct wrinkles and reinforce the skin’s natural defence system. This wonderful serum leaves skin smoother and brighter. It also smells great and leaves skin soft. Sigh.

Anti-Wrinkle Eye & Lip Cream

This gel cream fights oxidation, wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness. Phew. In fact, this awesome gel-cream addresses every issue to do with the eye and lip contours. Its formula also incorporates an instantly tightening fern extract, Matrixyl 3000 (a combination of peptides) to boost collagen synthesis, Horse Chestnut extract to smooth, and Licorice extract to decongest. Finally, soothing Calendula and Witch Hazel add even more softness. It instantly works on dark circles (my main skin nemesis) and the eye contour is smoothed. Leaves you with brighter eyes day after day. Good stuff.

These products are great because they keep up with our demanding lifestyle. Up early and to bed late. Being the successful career women, wife and mother. It all takes its toll and our skincare has to keep up. Thankfully, this amazing new range from Caudalie does. I love it and will be using it again.

The Polyphenol C15 is available from April at caudalie.com in Caudalie stores.

Sponsored Post

Sensationail Home Kit Review

Posted on February 13, 2015 by Sarah Bacchus

Hello everyone, its been ages since I last posted an article but I hope this one will keep the ladies happy! Ok so I never thought I’d see the day I rave about an at home gel nail kit. But that day has come and if you follow me on Instagram you would have seen me mention this a few times. This Sensationail kit is incredible on so many levels.

I was sent this kit to review and used the product over a few weeks. I have removed it and reapplied the system to really put it through its paces. If you haven’t come across my site before then welcome. I used to be a Celebrity nail artist and an Educator for some of the biggest professional nail brands in the world. I can honestly say that Sensationail is in fact….Sensational!!

I’m going to go out on a limb here and state that I think this kit is possibly better an any professional product I have ever used tested or worn myself. Now I know everything there is to know about gel polish, the way the chemicals react and how different products work together. I also put my nail enhancements through utter hell. I can, as I know someone that will fix them in a blink of an eye if they chip, drop off or lift and that’s me.

Most professional gel applications become a little spongy, soft and lift after about a week on my nails. Not sensationail it’s incredible. I got 2 full weeks out of the first application. Only taking them off to redo as the regrowth was looking a little unsightly. I removed them and reapplied them with ease and I can report that this brand is seriously rocking my world.

You won’t need to worry about applying extra layers as it’s so strong it’s just perfect. It has the best combination of strength and possibly the biggest factor that makes nail enhancements perfect and that’s it’s also flexible. So it will bend a little like real nails should. Too brittle and they can crack. This leads to lifting and all sorts of problems. Not with Sensationail you don’t! Not to mention the shine of the topcoat. It holds as good as new for all 14 days. No scratches, no dulling and certainly the shiniest of top coats I have ever come across. With the added bonus of being a 2 in 1 product. A combined base and top coat. Amazing don’t you think!

Sensationail Home Kit Review Tips

When lightly buffing the surface shine make sure you don’t damage the nails natural thickness, as over buffing will thin your nails drastically.
Cleanse with the product supplied. Don’t use nail polish remover as this is a solvent and could possibly cause lifting.
Don’t touch any of the nails after cleaning as this will transfer natural oils from your fingertips and will result in the product not settling properly.
When applying the primer only add it to 4 nails (leave the thumbs to last) Its a sticky product and fluff will drive you mad!
When applying the base coat to the 4 natural nails make sure not to touch the skin (this will lead to lifting) By laving a tiny margin around the sides and bottom it will increase the length of time that the product will stay looking perfect.
If you get any product on the surrounding skin just remove it with the orange wood stick provided in the Sensationail kit.
Do not wipe off the shiny, tacky residue from any of the layers as this is a very important part. *Sticky sticks to sticky or a rough surface. If you remember this you wont ever go wrong. If you remove it by mistake its OK but you will find the product might not adhere to the next layer. So all you ned to do is lightly buff the surface and recleanse.
Swirl the lid and brush in clockwise, or an anti clockwise motion around the neck of the bottle (whatever one feels easiest) as you take the applicator out. This will prevent dripping of the product and only the amount you need will be on the brush.
Next professional tip is to apply the polish as thin as you can. I found this product self levels and it’s amazing even if you are a little heavy on application. But its a good habit to get into as you could get a few more applications out of one bottle.
This is possibly the best tip I am going to give you now….Start to apply the polish in the middle of the nail. The push the brush towards your Proximal nail fold (cuticle) “I am going to drop in a diagram at the bottom and an explanation all about the cuticle at the end of this article. Make sure you read it as it will be very beneficial for you” As you push the brush back it will do all the work for you and you will see the polish edges are as neat as a pro! Try it a few times and let the product just glide on. *You are in no rush as it wont set until you are happy and place it into the lamp.
Top tip….Don’t leave any products near a lamp that it on. The bright blue light will most certainly cure whats in the bottles or the brush you leave on your desk!!!! Be warned!
Take your time when you first do a set. read the Sensationail instructions, my cuticle advice and the professional routine bellow before you start and Practice makes perfect!
Once you have mastered a few tips all you have to remember is that the Base & Topcoat take 30 seconds to cure and the polish takes 1 minute. Simple as that. If you need 3 coats, then apply 3.
If you have exceptionally weak nails I suggest a double layer of base and a double layer of topcoat cured for 30 seconds at each application.
When you are finished cleanse, wash hands and Oil those stunning nails twice a day with almond oil. There you have it some professional advice.

Sensational has all the right ingredients to create perfect nails at home time and time again. I can’t fault this in any way. Well if I was really going to be picky I’d say that with some of the colours it shrinks back just a little with the first coat of polish….But on applying the second you would have forgiven it in a heartbeat. The coverage is unsurpassed.

Professionals would normally do 3 thin coats, very thin ones when applying any products for a client as they can ripple and not cure right the way through. This leads to lifting and unhappy customers. Now this is where I feel this products comes into it’s own. The ease of application is tremendous, it’s near on impossible to get it wrong. The applicator brush of the combined base and topcoat is brill and the colours glide on almost seamlessly.

I give this a huge 10/10. For anyone that wouldn’t set foot in a salon this is perfect and for those of you needing to save a few pennies this will blow you away. Excuse the pun…This is Hands down the best gel manicure kit I have used in years.

Below is a professional explanation about the real Cuticle and manicures.

To explain what the true cuticle is… in fact it covers the entire nail bed. Yes thats right girls. The cuticle is basically the residue from the proximal nail fold when the nails are growing. Its there to keep infection out. And should NEVER BE CUT, EVER. As the nail plate grows it just travels with it. It can be carefully cleaned away by yourself but you just need a little know how…So I have done a little routine for you to help you apply Sensationail like a professional.

1. Grab a towel and some kitchen paper and place it on a table with a good light above the area. Preferably set up during the day. Sundays are best! Set aside about 1 1/2 hours to do a great job.
2. Gather all you need and plug in the lamp and arrange your desk with everything you need.
3. To remove the true cuticle gently glide the Sensationail remover tool (this is perfect) up and down the ENTIRE nail bed very gently. You can do this on dry nails with the remover and you will see lots of dry powdery debris coming off. Don’t over work it just do tiny moments with a little pressure and you will be amazed at what comes off!
5. Wash those hands and nails, getting rid of the excess debris. Then dry them off with a clean piece of kitchen roll.
6. Using a gentle file, shape nails. Lightly zig zag the file on the ends. This will add a little bit of key so the base coat will be able to nestle into the ends and seal them.
7. Arrange the lamp, bottles and products so they are easily accessed and loosen the lids a little.
8. Grab a cleanser pad provided in the kit and cleanse (not too much as this will saturate the nail and will lead to lifting!) one drop will do all 4 nails. Really cleanse those nails and scrub away at them so they are nice and clean. Try not to get any fluff left behind.
9. Look at the nails and see if you have any fluff or dust. Do not touch the nail plate if you have. Try to remove it by reusing the pad.
10. Apply a very small amount of base coat to 4 nails (do the thumbs last). Remember to add some around the free edge (tip of the nail). Keep it simple and try not to touch the skin. Keeping it just on the nail bed.
11. Place in lamp for 30 seconds.
12. Apply the colour thinly around the free edge. Then over the nail. Gel polish is amazing as it won’t set until it gets near the lamp! If you find its shrinking back a little just flash cure each nail for 5-10 seconds then move on to the next. This normally happens with darker colours and reds. Word of warning….don’t place any gels near the lamp as they will set, as I have mentioned before. Its always good to remind you!
13. Pop your beautifully and carefully painted nails into the lamp for 1 minute.
14. Apply a second coat to just the nail bed, paying attention to making sure it’s as neat as possible.
15. Pop in the lamp for 1 minute.
16. If you need a 3rd coat go ahead and do another.
17. Place in lamp for 1 minute. If you have applied this thickly you will feel it get a little warm. This is very normal it’s just the molecules connecting and being activated to link together until it sets. It sets so fast it’s a little friction and nothing to worry about.
18. Apply a thin coat of top coat and make sure you run a little along the tip to seal the edges. Then place your hand in the lamp for one last 30 second session!
19. Now do this to all 4 fingers on the other hand, followed by the thumbs. All done! I do hope this has helped you along with my professional gel nails tips.

It all sounds like there are loads of stages but trust me once you have done it a couple of times this will save you so much money and you will be able to have stunning nails all year round that look like a professional job.

*Please remember if you are thinking of doing other peoples nails you need proper training a licence/insurance and tell the council you are running a salon, either from home or mobile. It’s not worth running the risk of getting in trouble.

The key to anything is learning to do things properly and this article is intended for the use of Sensationail home gel nail kits.

For more beauty, fashion or styling advice just Tweet me @sarahbacchus and check out my site SLBstyle.com

For any photography and Personal Styling bookings please email me at sarah@slbstyle.com

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Sensationail Home Kit Review Tips

Below is a professional explanation about the real Cuticle and manicures.

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Sensationail Home Kit Review Tips

Below is a professional explanation about the real Cuticle and manicures.

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