We need to talk about the music coming out this month.

As if March wasn’t explosive enough – with the likes of Lil Nas X, Zara Larsson, Silk Sonic, Drake, and Jorja Smith all releasing albums, music, and videos – it looks like April is set to be another great month for music.

Despite being only the first week of the month, the quality we’re now seeing has given many musicians a VIP pass straight into our favourite playlists. Chart-topping heavyweights Demi Lovato, Olivia Rodrigo, and BTS have all chipped in with exciting new projects, while debut soloist Rosé has impressed with her first single album. Justin Bieber has even made it back onto our radar after surprising us all with a new EP just weeks after the release of Justice.

But never mind our nattering, check out the music that has welcomed the start of April with a bang.

Demi Lovato – Dancing with the Devil… the Art of Starting Over

Demi Lovato’s much-anticipated seventh studio album was released on the 2^nd of April, having been preceded by the singles ‘Anyone’, ‘What Other People Say’, and ‘Dancing with the Devil’ in the first quarter of 2021. The album follows Lovato’s period of recovery following her hospitalisation from a drug overdose in 2018, drawing on themes of recovery and self-empowerment. Acting as an ode to the darker times in her life and career, Dancing with the Devil… the Art of Starting Over captures Lovato’s highs and lows in raw honesty. This album marks Lovato’s taking ownership of her vulnerabilities, flaws, and fears, and signifies her ongoing journey towards self-love and liberation.

A YouTube docu-series, Demi Lovato: Dancing with the Devil, was also released last month to accompany the album, and provides a more in-depth look at the events of 2018. You can check it out here.

Rosé – ‘Gone’

Rosé is best known for her work as a member of K-Pop girl band BLACKPINK, but 2021 marked the year she took her first steps into a solo career. Releasing her debut single album R last month, Rosé dropped two music videos. The lead single, ‘On the Ground’, came out on March 12^th, and peaked at No. 70 on the Billboard Hot 100 – making Rosé the highest charting Korean female solo artist in the US.

The music video for her second single, ‘Gone’, came out on April 5

^th – much to the excitement of fans all over the world. The song and its subsequent music video explore the mourning of a lost relationship, a popular topic for most love songs. The song is anything but typical, however, if the beautiful visuals and soft rock overtones are anything to go by. The track comprises all the components of a successful romantic ballad, as well as a suitable amount of angst to keep the narrative engaging.

Justin Bieber – Freedom

We’ve lost track of how many times we’ve talked about Justin Bieber these last few months. Following a string of chart-topping singles, the Canadian singer finally released his sixth studio album, Justice, on March 19^th. But this obviously wasn’t enough excitement for Bieber, who weeks later released a surprise EP titled Freedom on April 4^th. Bieber had a central role in the EP’s production and has writing credits in every track.

Unlike the crowd-pleasing commercial releases of the singer’s previous work, Freedom directly reflects on his experiences growing up in the public eye and the mistakes he made along the way. Culminating in a meditation on his current circumstances, the gospel-inspired extended play emphasises how Bieber’s spiritual and religious beliefs intertwine with his everyday life.

Olivia Rodrigo – ‘déjà vu’

2021 appears to be THE year for Olivia Rodrigo, who made waves back in January with her debut single ‘Driver’s License’. Preceding the release of her debut album later this year, the singer dropped another single: ‘déjà vu’. The track is already making the rounds on TikTok, with its dreamy intro and romantic aesthetic catching the attention of many fans across the platform. The song is characterised by a psychedelic indie-pop sound that lends itself well to the themes of heartbreak, fantasy, and obsession in the video.

Perfectly attuned to Gen Z trends, the music video adopts a nineties-noughties aesthetic that belies the darker realities of the narrative. Following a love triangle in which Rodrigo’s ex has moved on to another girl, the story highlights how the ex now recreates the ‘special moments’ he once had with Rodrigo (hence ‘déjà vu’). This realisation fuels Rodrigo’s resentment for her ex as well as a growing obsession with his new lover, who the singer tries to mimic throughout the video.

BTS – ‘Film Out’

In the lead up to the release of their third Japanese album in June, K-Pop superstars BTS dropped ‘Film Out’ on April 2

^nd. The song also features as the ending theme for the Japanese film Signal The Movie Cold Case Investigation Unit. Co-written by BTS member Jungkook and lead singer of the Japanese band Iyori Shimizu, the track is a ballad characterised by a slow build up and dramatic crescendo that highlights the narrative of being unable to save something or someone.

The music video builds on this storyline, presenting all seven members in a house thinking back on the past. In time the members also fade, becoming the memories they once cherished and tried to recall. The explosion of a drained hourglass signifies a turning point in the song, as the music hits a dramatic high and the house used for filming bursts into chaotic flames. Unable to control this turn of events, the video delivers the message that we aren’t always able to save the things or people we love the most.

Yet To Come…

That’s not all we’re going to see this month, either. Several albums and singles are set to drop this April, giving the month a needed energy boost as we come out of lockdown. Keep an eye out for Taylor Swift’s Fearless (Taylor’s Version), dropping April 9^th, London Grammar’s upcoming third studio album Californian Soil, set to be released on April 16^th, and Noah Cyrus and JP Harding’s debut EP People Don’t Change, scheduled for April 23^rd (to name a few!).

Happy listening!

Words By Charlie Colville

The post New Music Releases You Need to Add to Your April Playlist appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Spring is here! And what better way to celebrate than a fresh wardrobe?

We’ve been scouring the fashion bulletin boards to find the freshest releases of the month. Despite only being a week into April, the fashion scene is packed with new launches and collaborations – making for a very exciting start to the spring season! The picks we’ve listed only scratch the surface of what to expect this month, so keep your eyes peeled for up-and-coming releases throughout April.

Check out our picks below!

PacSun

As part of its 2021 spring/summer campaign, California-based brand PacSun have released a new gender-free collection. The Gen Z favourite is setting a precedent in contemporary fashion by directing the brand’s focus to self-reflection and mental health, inviting a selection of young changemakers – including Emma Chamberlain, Charlotte D’Alessio, and Nara Aziza – to join the campaign and support its message.

“This genderless way to shop rids the noise of who should be wearing what and grants you the freedom to pick and choose what’s right for you.” – PacSun Website

Youth culture is intrinsic to PacSun’s brand DNA, and this is reflective of the clothing they have on offer this season. Expect to see tie-dye co-ord sets, candy-striped knitwear, and check denim alongside relaxed hoodies and joggers.

Drop Date: You can shop the collection now on PacSun’s website.

Hanifa

Hanifa have just released their second drop of their ‘Capsule’ collection, comprising of loungewear sets, bodycon dresses, and psychedelically patterned halter tops. Designed by Anifa Mvuemba, the collection explores an optimistic vision of a post pandemic future – transitioning from today’s relaxed styles to ‘going out’ appropriate fits.

“We’ve taken fashion and function to present knitwear worth mentioning! Not just any knits but bold, breathable, and bright knits for your comfort. We want you to feel equally stunning and sophisticated no matter the plans ahead.” – Hanifa website

Underpinning their collection with bright colours and abstract wavy patterns, Hanifa’s new collection brings out the bold and fun fashion we didn’t get a chance to show off last spring.

Drop Date: You can pre-order the collection now on Hanifa’s website.

ZARA x Starter

Athletic brand Starter are celebrating their 50^th anniversary by launching a partnership with high street giant ZARA. Starter are well known for their fusion of sports clothing and popular culture, having previously formed partnerships with major professional sporting bodies to connect the consumer market with their favourite sports stars.

The new Women’s capsule collection includes T-shirts, a vest dress, crop top, shorts, joggers, reversible bucket hat, and a bodysuit. The colour palette also heavily references spring tones and shades, with an emphasis on pink, white, and blue.

£ 18

STARTER ©2021 CROP TOP

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£ 28

STARTER ©2021 JOGGERS

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£ 20

STARTER ©2021 BODYSUIT

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The RealReal

As a resale retailer with a mission to keep luxury items in circulation, The RealReal recently teamed up with eight luxury brands to launch a collaborative upcycled collection titled ‘ReCollection 01’. Transforming damaged clothing into new, one-of-a-kind items, the collection features pieces from big names like A-Cold-Wall, Balenciaga, Dries Van Noten, Jacquemus, Simone Rocha, Stella McCartney, Ulla Johnson, and Zero + Maria Cornejo.

“To have such a dynamic group of luxury brands join us for our first collection sends an incredibly powerful message about the importance of circularity and the opportunity we all have to support a more sustainable future for fashion.” – Julie Wainwright, The RealReal founder and CEO

Prices range from $195 to $2450, and a portion of proceeds are donated to One Tree Planted in support of global reforestation work.

Drop Date: You can shop the collection now on The RealReal’s website.

Lazy Oaf

The Lazy Oaf brand recently launched Drop 2 of its summer collection, ‘Oaf TV’. Made up of seventeen individual items, Drop 2 is all about spring florals, pastels, and bold prints.

The brand had genderless styling in mind when it came to creating this collection, and so unisex co-ord items feature prominently in its line-up. Other standouts from the collection include daisy-patterned co-ord sets (with a matching bucket hat), pastel purple hoodies and jumpers, and a pair of floral dungarees.

£ 110

Lazy Oaf Pushing Daisies Cropped Jacket

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£ 65

Lazy Oaf Squish Face Jersey

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£ 75

Lazy Oaf Checkers Mini Skirt

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Comme des Garcons PLAY x Converse

The iconic PLAY logo has graced the sides of Converse sneakers since 2009, sending customers out into the world with little red hearts on their feet. For their newest collaboration, PLAY have been introduced to Converse’s Jack Purcell sneaker. The low-top sneaker is already known for its ‘smiley face’ rubber toe, so the addition of some cheeky heart faces peeking over the rubber sole of the shoe only adds to their charm.

“The collaborative design takes an over-sized version of the iconic logo and stylishly crops it to fit a low-top canvas. It’s instantly recognizable, popping off a neutral-toned upper in your choice of black or red.” – Converse website

Drop Date: You can shop the new sneaker now on the Converse website.

£ 130

Comme des Garçons PLAY Jack Purcell Low Top

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Supreme x Dr. Martens

Another collaboration making its debut this month is the Supreme and Dr. Martens revamp of the 5-Eye Shoe, an iconic lace-up from the British footwear brand. Three versions of the 5-Eye Shoe will be available – expect to see bold designs in brick orange and zebra print alongside Dr Martens’ usual classic black.

The orange and black versions will be rendered in leather, with tonal stitching used to break up the blocks of solid colour. In contrast, the zebra print shoe will be made from pony hair, giving it a more textural look.

Drop Date: April 8^th 2021 via the Supreme website.

Words By Charlie Colville

The post Our Favourite Drops Of April So Far appeared first on Voir Fashion.

As we enter another 3 weeks into lockdown and the novelty of trying to be our best selves is wearing off you start to feel that maybe your before self was just okay. We have Exhausted all the makeup, skincare and home workout routines and moved from Netflix and chill to News and Panic and back again. So, what is next for these upcoming 3 weeks? Why not consult the stars and find out? Pick yourself back up and discover what activities you can do based on your star sign. Look out for your lucky colour or crystal to guide you on your journey.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Aries are the youngest of the Zodiac. Your sun sign gives you a childlike wonder and creative approach, which will help you during this crisis. You are positivity at its best. Aries be bold, channel your creativity and your inner child. Looking to learn a technique?, try Drawing or Graphic design or invent something. Have fun with your wardrobe, revise and revamp your closet along with your personal style. For a more intensive activity, Try a virtual workout.

Lucky Color – Green

Lucky Crystal – Green Aventurine (all-round healing stone)

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Taurus often the voice of reason but you cannot reason yourself out of this global crisis. So, what can you do? You need to reapply your focus on what you can do. Apply all of your ideas and techniques and allow the hero in you to make a difference. For the Taurus, now is the time to be most yourself and inspire and support people. Start a blog or a master class or even sharpen the skills you already have anything to keep that mentality going. Now that spring is here for all those green-fingered Tauruses maybe it’s time to go back to basic tasks plant a herb garden or a rose bush.

Lucky Colour – White

Lucky Crystal – Clear Quartz (master healer)

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Geminis are ruled by Mercury, the messenger of the Gods. making you expert communicators and positive personality. It is time to put it out there for the world to benefit from. Stay in touch and share your good vibes. Try out your writing skills or even a new language sharpens those communication skills. To reach a wider audience try making videos or even a podcast. It’s good vibes with Geminis, try it.

Lucky Colour – Blue

Lucky Crystal – Blue Aventurine (stone of opportunity)

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

The Cancerian soul is sentimental, loving, compassionate and needs expression, known to be the homemakers of the Zodiac. Now that we are indoors, it is your time to shine. Revamp your home experience with experimenting on new meals if you haven’t yet, make some banana bread. Change up your living space and wardrobe, optimize it for you. Practice self-care pamper yourself and give yourself the best at-home experience as it is what you do best.

Lucky Colour – Purple

Lucky Crystal – Amethyst (Healing protection)

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Leo, you have the biggest heart and are ruled by the sun. You inspire those around you with your good leadership and positive nature. As you are governed by the sun you will always shine your creative light. Explore the healing power of music with new genres create playlists and try out dance routines. Structure for Leo comes from their mental fabric and their external environment. Sit down, calm yourself and meditate to lift your spirits. You can also alter your environment to include items that bring you joy. Fill your home with sweet fragrance you love.

Lucky Colour – Yellow

Lucky Crystal – Tigers eye (self-understanding)

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

The perfectionist in you is in distress now that you cannot control your environment. Known for dotting every I and crossing every T Virgos lavish being in control, so how do you get it back? Just focus on what you can control and get some gratification. Now is the time for a spring-cleaning plant a garden or even try out new recipes to give you back the control you desperately crave. Nothing wrong with it we don’t judge.

Lucky Colour – Orange

Lucky Crystal – (Vitality, Motivation)

Libra

September 23 – October 22

No one is better equipped to create balance in life like a libra. Work and home balance now that it is all at home, the libra needs to create a balance and contrast between both situations. Create a calm environment and feel free to explore new activities like dance during your home time. Libra are natural teachers; it is time to start a project to teach the skills you have.

Lucky Colour – Pale blue

Lucky Crystal – Blue Apatite (Good health)

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Practicality and enlightenment are the two guidance tools of the Scorpio. Any challenges ahead are to be tackled using these tools. It is time to learn for the Scorpio to combat issues to come. Finance is key – Research new ways to save money, take care of investments and share your findings with others. Now that we are indoors for the Scorpio home is where the heart is, create all the Imaginative ideas you have had on the back burner, don’t be afraid to be different your personal style is excellent. Connect with your higher self, esoteric interests can fascinate you, to achieve enlightenment.

Lucky Colour – Black

Lucky Crystal – Black Tourmaline (Protection)

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Laughter is the best medicine, especially for the Sagittarius. Armed with humour the Sagittarius is out to liven the mood with comedy. The Sagittarius quirky take on life and situations is perfect in this time. To keep the laughter going, the Sagittarius will gravitate towards comedic content while sharing with those around them. In true spirit, the Sagittarius views this time as a time to relax at home and care for yourself.

Lucky Colour – Orange

Lucky Crystal – Golden healer quartz (healing on all levels)

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Capricorn relies on stability and a down to earth approach. Cool and rational the Capricorn is setting an excellent example on the ability to adapt to current circumstances. For you Capricorn, it is a great time to explore love as their love zones manifest try online dating. In their rational nature, Capricorns take walks to clear their heads and rid of stress. Journaling has also been seen to be an asset for the Capricorn.

Lucky Colour – White

Lucky Crystal – Snowflake Obsidian (balance of mind, body, and spirit)

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Aquarius is humanitarian of the Zodiacs who enjoy their privacy. Your star sign compels you to help others but also enjoy your time alone at home. Thanks to the internet, you can help people online. It is time to spend some time yourself, whether it is a good book or your favourite movie snuggle up and just be. As you explore more, try out new things for yourself, what are flavours you have always wanted to taste.

Lucky Colour – White

Lucky Crystal – White diamond – (calm, inner peace)

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

The notorious dreamer. As a Pisces, you are well placed to bring your love and compassionate self to the world and share your vision. Set your sights on love and compassion. Send out love and healing through live streams. Centre yourself with yoga as your mind wanders all day. Try something new with astrology and open your mind to interpreting the stars and share your insight.

Lucky Colour – Pink

Lucky Crystal – Rose Quartz (Unconditional Love)

Words by Joanna Hope

Graphics by Araceli Alonso

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The post New Skills to Learn According to Your Horoscopes appeared first on Voir Fashion.