Boho Twist and Tuck Hair-Do Tutorial

The Boho Twist and Tuck is a really easy hair style that literally takes 3-5 minutes, and the end result looks as though you've  had your hair professionally done!I frequently style my hair in this fashion for both day time and night time looks. It has a very elegant old-school/boho look to it, and goes really well with any sort of attire. So first things first, all you need is an elastic headband and some bobby pins.


The headband twist hairstyle works best for just above the shoulder to mid-back hair lengths. It even works for curls and thick hair- however you just might need more bobby pins to secure the style.



Step by step:

1. Start by tying the band around your head. Make sure that it lays right at your front hairline and ties just below the mid-point at the back of your head.

2. Begin at the front on one side with a small section on hair. Twist the section backwards many times.

3. Wrap the twist tightly around the headband as many times as it will go around.

4. Now take another section of hair from directly behind your first twist. Begin twisting it back, twisting in the tail of your first one.

5. Wrap this section around the headband, leaving a tail at the end.

6. Now leave the tail hanging down and start at the front on the other side. Repeat  the same steps above on the second side.

7. With the remaining hair in the very back, twist it and wrap it and tuck it around the band. It may seem messy at first, but just keep tucking in the loose piece (remember that the key to getting this boho hair-do right is to tuck and pin once you are done wrapping.

This glam hair style is also hugely popular on pintrest, check out this link for some more boho-chic inspiration!

-S

The Body Shop's Vitamin E Eye Cream: Review

I was really excited to try this product about
a year ago, as I heard many good reviews about the cream and it still remains one of The Body Shop's best selling items.At the time, I was looking for something to reduce puffiness under the eyes, the appearance of fine lines and slight dark circles. 

Unfortunately, I happened to find the product quite disappointing, and I failed to see any impact after using it for months on end. I felt that it didn't really make any difference to the skin under my eyes except for keeping the area well moisurised. Besides that, another plus is that the cream has a smooth and non greasy texture. 

Overall I feel like the cream doesn't really have much "power" behind it. Compared to some of The Body Shop's other products, this cream is slightly on the more expensive end.   I would definetely put my money to better use next time and purcase a more effective eye cream.

PS- this is just my personal experience with the product, but perhaps  some of you may have felt that this eye cream worked wonders! Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments section down below!
-S

Big Bubbles & A Bath Tub

Bath time- no better way to relax and unwind after a long grueling week! Bubbles, soft tunes and some candles are the way to go. Here's my little review of the lovely bubbly bath products I've been using as of late.

First things first, my very favorite product has been from the Body Shop's Honeymania Bodycare range. The Bath melt is made from pure nectar of wildflowers and gives off a really luxurious  floral scent. In order to get a really bubbly bath, all you need to do is run approximately 1.5 tablespoons of the honey melt under the tap. My skin always smells great after soaking in the formula and I feel that it makes the skin softer over time. Tip:  Make sure that you swirl the formula continuously to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the tub as it has quite a goopy consistency.. 

The second product (the little White hearts) are scented bath fizzers . While these may look very attractive to try out, I didn't find them effective at all. The fizzers simply dissolve away in warm water and don't even give off much scent. I was definitely disappointed with this purchase, and have resorted to leaving them as cute deco pieces in my bathroom. 

The third product is Baylis and Harding's jojoba, silk and almond oil bubble bath foam. The reason why I picked this product is because the B&H brand never disappoints, and is really affordable as well.The formula gives off a very rich, nutty scent and the large bottle lasts for absolutely ages(12-14 baths), compared to the Body Shop's Honeymania(maximum 7-9 baths). 

Also, I am dying to get my hand's on Zoella's Fizz Bar (now available at Superdrug). That's definitely on my wishlist so await the review shortly! In the mean time, what are you waiting for? Time to pamper yourself and unwind with these indulgent bath-time treats!

-S

Body shop - New Flavour!

Glazed Apple ! Need I say more? 

Personally, one of my favourite things about christmas time is the new Body Shop flavours.  Having recently bought a whole bunch of Body Shop products I didn't plan to go in their store. But as I was passing by a sales assistant was giving out samples of the glazed apple body butter, and all willpower was lost! After several minutes of checking out the new flavours I decided that I had to have something in the glazed apple flavour - and got the hand cream and at £3 I didn't feel too guilty about it! 

I thought this deserved a special mention - if you haven't checked out the Body Shop's new flavours - go check them out! 

-N

Victoria's Secret Fantasy Fragrance Mists: A review

When Victoria Secret came out with their "fantasies" collection, along with it were some really reasonable offers on their fragrance mist products. Here are my top picks:

-Coconut Passion

Luxurious rendezvous between vanilla and coconut.  This is without a doubt my absolute favorite day-time fragrance.

- Pure Daydream

This bright, refreshing fragrance is my Summer go-to scent, with a blend of pink currant and pearl orchid.

-Secret Charm
A combination of soft jasmine and honeysuckle fused together. A really fresh and calming, spa-like scent.

-S

Lucas' Papaw Multipurpose Ointment: A Review

This has been my go-to lip balm for years. It is great for soothing cracked lips and I find that daily usage keeps my lips really well hydrated (Especially in the Winter). The light texture is very much like vaseline  and glides on quite easily to the skin.

I also use this scentless ointment for any minor wounds, insect bites and sunburns. This inexpensive baby is super handy to have at home and the little red tube also fits really well into any hand bag when you're on the go. 


Product Availability:
Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia & Hong Kong
UK: http://www.pawpawshop.co.uk/shoppinglucas.php 

-S

Mac Face & Body Foundation

The MAC Face & Body Foundation has been one of the most talked about foundations for years with it being a staple in many MUA kits. Currently, it is my holy grail foundation and the one I reach for at every occasion. The FB foundation is unique because it is has a special water based formula that makes it lightweight and runny - and for those of you who fear thick cakey foundation (like myself) this ones for you! 

I don't think there is any other foundation out there that stays true to your own skin as this one. It is sheer and completely weightless and you can't feel a thing! It's suitable for all skin types; and with combination skin myself, it works well with a bit of powder on top. It is also long lasting and stays put throughout the day. This is also probably the best foundation for first time foundation users who find the prospect of choosing the right non cakey foundation daunting - I was one of these not too long ago!

However, if you are looking for a foundation that gives you a completely flawless and full coverage look, this possibly isn't the best one for you - but I find myself using it even for special occasions as with a bit of concealer on blemishes I find that it gives me a natural flawless finish - but this depends on your own skin and personal preference. 

I wear shades C5 and C6, mixing them up according to how tan I am. I find that even the 50ml bottles last ages and I think these foundations are definitely value for money.

-N

Be Kind to Sensitive Skin: Handy and Affordable Drug Store purchases by Simple and Tea Tree

Simple Cleansing facial wipes  

-The perfect solution for removing excess make up:One wipe will cleanse your skin without any irritation and even remove all signs of mascara.

-Not harsh and doesn't dry out your skin. Leaves you feeling refreshed 

-A very convenient product to carry around in your bag- perfect for Holidays and a refresher during the day. 

Tea Tree Nose Strips & Spot Stick 

The deep cleansing nose strips for  unclogging pores to remove blackheads and relieve blockages works satisfactorily well. I would definitely recommend this product for sensitive skin types, but I still feel that the Biore Ultra Deep Cleansing Pore Strips are more effective at getting rid of stubborn blackheads and white heads.


The Tea Tree Spot Stick is brilliant at making spots and zits disappear within days. Given that the brand prides itself in its core ingredient, tea tree acts as a natural antibacterial agent and best friend to sensitive, acne prone skin.What's more, these colourful products are often on offer and up for grabs in Superdrug at super affordable prices!

-S

The Amazing Clarisonic Mia : Review

This cleansing face brush is absolutely amazing. I cannot say enough good things about it! The first time I heard about this skin care product, make up guru Tanya Burr was raving about it. Having tried and tested the product and using it everyday, I must say it definitely lives up to all the hype.

To summarise, the Clarisonic Mia really does everything that it's website claims it does:

"The Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth skin. In just 60 seconds, the action removes more makeup and more dirt and sebum than cleansing with your hands alone. Removing more dirt and sebum from your pores also helps prepare for a better skin care regime."

Key benefits:
-If you have sensitive skin and big pores like me, the Clarisonic Mia works really well to tighten and reduce pore visibility.

-Really ensures that all your make up is long gone, unclogging pores and works really well in combination with Philosophy's Purity cleanser. 

-Skin feels really clean, soft and smooth once your done.
-the mia is  super quick (max 1 minute) and it is also waterproof (yes, you can use it in the shower!)


-The original clarisonic is larger and bulkier, so this smaller version makes a great travelling partner for weekends and holidays.

-The mia comes available with a series of replaceable brush heads to suit your skin needs (e.g. "Sensitive" and "delicate" brush heads).

Beware:
-during the first week of use, you may notice a break out or two (AKA: The Purging Phase). Dont freak out, the reason why this may be happening is because your skin is being cleansed six times deeper than it's used to, and all of the extra sebum and dirt is making its way out of your pores. After a week, its all clear and smooth sailing :)

 -Once you get into a routine with the Clarisonic Mia cleansing system, be consistent. If you stop using it for weeks or months at a time; be prepared: breakouts may occur as a result of changing your pattern of consistent daily cleansing.


- Although the battery lasts for at least 2-3 weeks depending on how frequently you use the product, one of the main downsides is that it takes at least a day to fully recharge!

-The Clarisonic Mia doesn't come cheap. It is indeed an investment, but after experiencing all the skin care benefits and durability of the product for over a year and a half, I feel like it was worth every penny!



Honestly, this is one skin care product that I absolutely cannot live without. If you guys decide to take the plunge, trust me-you wont be disappointed!

-S

Beauty With Heart: The Body Shop

Okay, so we have a confession to make. Naz and I are major Body Shop addicts. We can't keep our hands off their lovely bath, body and skin care products. Why, you ask?

Top 3 reasons:

-All natural goodness and a wide range of goodies for all needs, from lip to foot care

-Amazing Prices and discounts throughout the year 

-Ethically produced products (against animal testing)

We, the addicts, purchase these products so often that La Dolche Diva will have a separate section solely dedicated to The Body Shop. Keep an eye out for our reviews and top picks of their amazing skin care range including- shower gels, body butters, body scrubs, gift sets and much more!

-S&N

Lets talk: Philosophy Skin Care

Philosophy prides itself on building beauty from the inside out. the entire product line was developed with the "mind, body and spirit" approach. One of the things that we love about Philosophy is that the products are compatible for all skin types; be it acne prone, sensitive, dry or oily. What really makes these products stand out is the simple packaging and effective printed messages, which promote well being and inner beauty. with categorical product names like "Hope", "Purity" and "Grace", what's not to love?

The breakdown:

Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser £17.50 // 236.6ml

• Your go-to safe bet: Cleanser, toner & make up remover, all in one!
•  Massage on to damp skin and watch your make up dissolving in seconds. Say goodbye to residue and panda eyes!
• Great to use in the shower and works really well with the Clarisonic Mia.
•  Doesn't make the skin dry or tight. Gives blemish prone skin a fresh, bright and even tone.
• Makes skin and pores feel unclogged and really clean. You are guaranteed to have fewer breakouts and when using the cleanser on a daily basis, you feel less need for other skin care products like toners and exfoliators.
• A 240 ml bottle will last you ages! (at least 6-8 months, as you only need a tiny amount per day).
• Compatible for all skin types. PS: the extra gentle formula is ideal for sensitive skin types.

Philosophy Hope in a Jar £10.00 // 15ml, , £34.00 // 60ml

• Oprah raves about this product! High performance moisturiser for all skin types.
• The texture is very light and absorbs into the skin really quickly, leaving you with a radiant glow. skin feels soft and more even toned.
• Loaded with antioxidants that eat away dead skin, and softens up fine lines/ wrinkles.
• Works well with:
  -sensitive skin-no irritation. Doesn't give you break outs or make your face too greasy.
  -dry skin: say goodbye to flakiness!
• Travel friendly: Ideal size for carrying around in your handbag/ toiletry case!

Now for those of you who need a little extra care and faith in Philosophy's range, why not try out:

Philosophy When Hope is Not Enough Replenishing cream £7.99 // 30ml

This product is a true miracle worker for really dehydrated skin, especially in the winter. I find that lightly applying this moisturiser after using my Philosophy cleanser just before bedtime, yields the best results.

•  The non-greasy texture is brilliant in protecting and moisturising dry skin.
•  the GLA rich borage oil and Vitamin C contents help to keep skin well hydrated and helps to boost moisture retention.

So there you have it, the Philosophy essentials break down. 

Now I know what your next question is going to be: Easiest place to get my hands on these miracle skin care products?!? --> Look no further than: Boots & Amazon :)

-S

In the spirit of PFW: Presenting the Classics

This article was originally sourced from The LSE Beaver (Edition 789, Page 32) 

London's most unusual Fashion fairs!

Frock Me!

For all you fashionistas crazy about vintage styles, look no further than Frock me! London’s most exciting vintage fashion fair, featuring  over fifty of the very best vintage dealers all under one roof at Chelsea Old Town Hall, complete with a lovely Vintage Tea Room. Frock Me! covers the full range of 20th century fashion –ranging from beautiful ’20s flappers dresses to ’80s flared trousers.

Are you ready to re-invent yourself as a modern day Elizabeth Taylor or Jane Russell? Dates for Frock Me! 2014 are below, and for more details click here 

Chelsea Town Hall, King’s Road, Chelsea, London SW3 5EE

Sundays, 11am – 5.30pm

Hyper Japan

Japanese fashion may not be as popular as luxury brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton, however it is embraced and adopted by increasing numbers of teenagers and young women in the western world. “Hyper Japan” was the UK’s largest Japanese cultural fair which takes place annually.

Some of the main labels featured at the November 2012 fair were:

AOI Clothing Uroco & Keiko Kato: A combination of timeless, stylish pieces from Tokyo and London. These designers combine both traditional and mixed modern fabrics.

Roxie Sweetheart: distinctly Japanese “alternative” fashion.

Tofu Cute: wild wigs, princess shoes, Japanese Kigurumi Onesies and many more girly fashion items!

The experience provided a fresh and original perspective on colourful street fashion. I found myself fascinated, stepping into Japanese fashion realms ranging from funky Harajuku inspired accessories to fancy frills and frolics. Trend setters; keep an eye out for latest styles and catwalk fashions from the east end!

This article was originally sourced from: http://lsesufashionsociety.wordpress.com/tag/sheshaya-surtani/

Exodus: African Designer Labels Delivered to your Doorstep

This article was originally sourced from The LSE Beaver (Edition 800, Page 20)

Designer and Exhibition Review: Zandra Rhodes

This article was originally sourced from The LSE Beaver (Edition 795, Page 16)

Designer & Exhibition Review: Miles Aldridge

FASHION EVENTS DOCUMENTED:

The Miles Aldridge Exhibition

WHO IS HE?

A pop video director turned photographer, Miles Aldridge has captured a unique take on fashion since the mid-90s. Having graduated with a degree in illustration from Central St. Martins, he credits luck as the reason why he became a fashion photographer. British Vogue took no time to spot his talent, and from there on his career ssky-rocketed Now based in New York, Aldridge has had work published in top publications across the globe from Italian Vogue to the New York Times. Aldridge is heavily influenced by his father Alan Aldridge, fashion photographer Richard Avedon and film directors; Alfred Hitchcock and David Lynch.

Miles Aldridge: I Only Want You To Love Me is the largest retrospective exhibition of the acclaimed photographer’s work to date. The high glamour photo fiction exhibition was held at the Somerset House from 10th July -29th September 2013. Featuring 55 large scale prints that form an overview of Aldridge’s multi-coloured universe, it was also accompanied by drawings and polaroids. The exhibition is testament to the fact that Aldridge’s love of drawing has always prevailed - sketches were always central to his process.

At the offset, it appears Aldridge has two obsessions: women, and his love for colour. Highly saturated clashing shades, overly- airbrushed models and cinematic compositions give Aldridges’ photography an eerily glamorous feel. By concentrating on unique scenes with psychologically complex characters in surreal settings, Aldridge offers an intriguing mixture of sensuality and melancholy, inviting the viewer to uncover a deeper layer of meaning behind his work.

A woman resembling Elizabeth Taylor sits in a red bed with green satin sheets, a bowl of half eaten grapefruit on her lap and appears to be screaming, arms flung in the air. In another, a woman clad in yellow sits on a checked tiled floor, seemingly ready to pounce, whilst glaring into the distance over broken plates and scattered food. His loud, conceptual photos featuring expressionless women all tell a similar story; both disturbing, yet beautiful. These are women at the edge of reason. The verge of breaking point. Every sense and emotion is magnified through Aldridge’s bright, clashing colours which screams out loud, so the models don't have to.

In its final weeks, I Only Want You to Love Me became a behind the scenes backdrop to the marquees and catwalks erected for London Fashion Week. For those of you who want to enter Miles Aldridge’s Technicolor fantasy world, his recently released book “I Only Want You To Love Me” (Rizzoli, New York), is now available. For further information visit: www.milesaldridge.com.

This article was originally sourced from: http://lsesufashionsociety.blogspot.co.uk/p/fashion.html

Top Style Tips: Dressing right for your body type

Most celebrities manage to always look so perfect whether they’ve been spotted by paparazzi running in to a grocery store, or seen on TV strutting their stuff on the red carpet. It’s easy to imagine what you’re thinking, and the answer is no: they weren’t born that way. What sets these celebs apart from the rest of us is their stylists, talented individuals who provide them with top fashion tips that enable them to appear effortlessly chic, no matter where they are. Besides the fact that most of us can’t afford stylists, I think it’s always more fun to take your own creativity and individualism into your own hands and be your own stylist. Here are some of my pointers for looking your best, even if it’s just another cold (and snowy!) winter’s day at uni that you’re getting dressed for!

[Miranda Kerr: image sourced from justjared.com]

Follow trends—to a certain extent

Of course you don’t want to turn up at a party in bell-bottom jeans and over-sized shoulder pads, but there’s no reason to adopt the latest trends if those clothes aren’t age-appropriate or figure-flattering for you. Keep up with the latest styles, but make sure they suit not only your figure, but your individual personality too.

Create the ideal body shape

Everybody has a different shape. While some of us are curvy and voluptuous, the others may be petite and slender. Dress right for your body type: If you have wide hips, give the impression of a smaller waist by finding a dress or top that accentuates where you are the slimmest. There’s no harm in trying out many different styles and sizes to find that perfect outfit that flatters your body type at all angles. Bear in mind that clothes shouldn’t pull or cling to you; instead, they should skim your body.

[Jennifer Lopez: image sourced from stylebistro.com]

Don’t accentuate your flaws

Most girls have bits and bobs of their body that they aren't too proud of. If you aren’t crazy about your waistline don’t draw attention to it by wearing short tops and fitted dresses. To minimize a tummy bulge, look for clothes with a wide band at the waist. If it’s your wobbly thighs that need concealing, avoid wearing light-coloured pants or jeans (as pale colours and prints will immediately attract unwanted attention to that area of your body).

Another big no-no: As superfluous as this may sound, many women end up buying clothes that are just too big (in hopes that their flaws will be hidden). The truth behind it is, loose-fitting clothing actually makes women appear larger, not smaller, because it deprives them of any sort of body shape.

[Kim Kardashian: image sourced from iamkimkardashian.com]

Getting the under layers right

When trying on an underwire long leg bodysuit or a girdle, take the time to find pieces that work with your body and your budget. Remember that if something feels a little too tight in the changing room, rest assured that it will unbearably tight after many hours mingling at a cocktail evening. Choose wisely; as much as you want to create a smoothing effect under your dress, make sure it provides you with maximum comfort too.

[Rosie Huntington-Whiteley: image sourced from dailyrecord.com]

Spend generously when it really counts

Don’t go for a cheap knock-off buy when it comes to the solid foundations of any wardrobe, whether it is a black pencil skirt for work or a white blouse to match with a funky neck-piece. Remember that these core elements of your closet can be styled to look great for so many different occasions, so make sure they fit perfectly and you get your money’s worth!

Find that perfect pair of heels

The higher the heel, the slimmer you’ll look, as it elongates your legs and forces you to throw your shoulders back—creating the perfect posture as you walk. My advice to those who wish to opt out of those oh-so-painful stilettos: How about comfort heels with a platform? Such shoe types hold your arch at a gentle angle, whilst also providing more support at the balls of your feet.

Sales and stocking up on basics

Trends will always come and go. Disregard what will be the “in look” next fall. You will always need your basic T-shirts and inexpensive skinny’s for layering. Even though Boxing Day sales are over, the January sales and seasonal discounts are still on! Keep an eye out for woollen pants, sweaters and outerwear on sale too.

Best accessory finds in the most unexpected locations

For fun, trendy items—like scarves or chunky jewellery, I often find that the best places are street stalls and little crafts stores. Behold a range of stylish accessories, ranging from ribbon tie necklaces to pearly headbands. The greatest discoveries are often in the places you least expect to find it!

-S

This article was originally sourced from: http://lsesufashionsociety.wordpress.com/tag/sheshaya-surtani/

The fashion journey so far!

This article was originally sourced from The LSE Beaver ( Edition 804,Page 19)