Maximalist, eccentric styles not only have seen a resurgence on recent catwalks, such as the metallic pink Valentino boots to Virgil Abloh’s wearable cityscapes for Louis Vuitton, and current designers are infusing hope into their clothing through maximalist touches and escapist attitudes.

People haven’t seen us in a year… or at least not from our torso downwards from our endless Zoom meetings. And boy, have we all forgotten our legs existed too? Thankfully, we’re slowly easing our way into incorporating every body part into our outfits, and not just what would only be seen on camera. Cue the rise of patterned pants and platform heels (which keep climbing higher). ‘It’ girls are the living proof that maximalist supremacy is reigning over 2021, just think of Dua Lipa’s skyscraper leather knee boots, Prada’s patterned bodysuits and maximalist manicures; but also Bella Hadid’s colorful crochet headwear staples, bright lip colours, tie-dye patchwork pants and more over the top, maximalist clothing. Other fashion icons Rihanna, Hailey Bieber and Irina Shayk have all jumped on the bandwagon of maximalist prints, which are all responsible for our over-flowing online shopping carts.

Several brands have seen an unexpected rise in popularity thanks to the bold pattern trend, in particular brands that are 70’s inspired with a retro vibe, such as Paloma Wool and Gimaguas. Emma Mulholland’s label Holiday is another maximalist veteran: you’ve probably seen their Kokomo bottoms more than once on your feed, and there’s nothing we’ve wanted more. Disco waves are also extremely popular, hence these Gimaguas pants are perpetually sold out.

£ 71.50

Gimaguas Disco Waves

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£ 129

Paloma Wool Claudia Pants

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£ 123.60

Holiday Kokomo Pants in Red

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It seems that nowdays the bigger, the brighter, the better! This maximalist approach is thought to have risen from the desire of escaping lockdown. After all, its loud style, often excessive, saturated appeal in encouraging to be bold, not just in fashion, but as a lifestyle.

Pre-pandemic less was certainly more. Simple blue jeans and sartorial elegance were celebrated as the pinnacles of style continuum. Statement pieces were only rarely worn for special occasions, and clean, classy stand-out brands such as Jacquemus and The Row were the most trending. Featuring soft neutral palettes, they are the opposite of the bold pop of colours we’re seeing everywhere, especially the colour green. It seems strange how pre-pandemic the colour was avoided from everyone’s palette, and now everyone is obsessed with it! Designers persisted during the pandemic to keep the fashion scene growing and evolving; it was within the melancholic darkness of the pandemic that maximalist rose from the ashes.

Words By Tommaso Donati

The post The Rise Of Maximalism: How The Pandemic Has Made Our Wardrobes More Eccentric appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Nia Williams founded relationship coaching service Miss Date Doctor (M.D.D) in 2016, aiming to provide modern support for modern love and relationships. The platform has coaches and counsellors for any relationship issue, delivering more help than most contemporary relationship agencies, as M.D.D enforces the importance of any issue, big or small, to a relationship or individual. With over 100 packages and lots of happy customers, it’s clear that M.D.D’s director knows her stuff. We’ve asked her some questions to help you with your love life for those of you spending December in Tier 3 Isolation.

We understand that being isolated with your partner might be a topic you’re worrying about, and you wouldn’t be alone: this might be one of the toughest times for relationships, but also one of the most exciting- it’s not often you’ll have this much time to spend together.

Nia is here to help you survive such challenging times and to help see this time through.

What’s your most important piece of advice for couples isolating together for the first time?

“This will feel quite stressful for couples, the emotional stress due to the unpredictability of the future and also financial impact can make individuals irritable and needing their partner’s support more. Due to this the most important thing to do is be patient with each other and understand these are unprecedented circumstances, give your partner space when needed, work in separate rooms and give emotional support if your partner is feeling anxious or stressed about the future – giving assurance you will get through this strenuous period together.”

Establishment can be an important part of communication in relationships: being open and declarative about things we need, want or have can be vital to avoid unnecessary arguments and keep couples from clashing. What do you think needs to be established in the relationship?

“Couples living together need to establish the following:

1. Working hours when quiet time and private time is needed.

2. Establish how you will sustain food supplies i.e grocery stores or food delivery service.

3. Personal boundaries for each individual i.e house rules to avoid conflict.

4. Write up a chores list that can be divided between the two of you.

5. Organise an ‘at home date night’ once a week i.e Netflix, couples games, romantic candlelit dinners etc.”

Having one space to live and work in can make anyone feel confined and claustrophobic, let alone when there’s more than one person doing it in the same place. Sometimes physical distance and boundaries are the best way to establish a sense of independence and focus, having different spaces for different daily routines and having different spaces for individuals can provide the compartmentalisation that’s needed when you’re isolating. With these house rules, personal boundaries and establishments in mind, are there any physical boundaries that you think should be set for couples in terms of working and living and isolating in one shared space?

“Yes, this is very important if physical boundaries are not respected this can lead to terrible arguments and significant upset. The following rules are imperative:

– Do not talk to me during working hours if I am working from home unless I engage with you or you just want to tell me something briefly.

– Do allow me to have private time to myself sometimes, despite us living under the same roof.

– Please respect your partner’s living rules to avoid arguments over chores and keeping the living space tidy.

– Respect that you are two different individuals but your different living styles have to integrate together successfully to avoid disagreements.”

People might be afraid to confront their partner with these ideas of distance and independence, what’s the best way to ask for some alone time without offending your partner? “Let your partner know you need some space and once you are finished you will join them.”

And how do you suggest we find some independence beyond the physical boundaries you’ve suggested? “Do not be too codependent on your partner; codependency ruins relationships. It is important that even though you are living together you do your own thing and embark on your own daily tasks and chores without constantly disturbing your partner.”

Even with these boundaries and independence, we understand when you’re stuck in the house with someone for a long time, arguments are almost inevitable. What do you think is the best way to diffuse an argument, or prevent one when tensions are high?“To avoid arguments listen to each other and show cognitive empathy towards your partner enabling you to see things from your partner’s perspective as well as your own. In the case of diffusing an argument concede if you are wrong, then apologise and do not raise your voice when speaking to your partner also always be aware of your tone.”

In isolation, every day can feel the same as we get into a routine that doesn’t change and can’t change, and with repetition comes boredom, which is sometimes the cause of these high tensions. How do you suggest couples can keep spontaneity and romance while stuck at home?

“Agree to quality time, no phones, no zoom, just the two of you. Try to create romantic fluidity by having intimacy and romance sporadically throughout the lockdown period. Understanding each other’s languages helps a lot in this situation knowing what your partner wants and needs is imperative. Play couples games i.e. a date night box, staycation setup or create an environment ideal for a romantic staycation. It is important to remember during lockdown give each other adequate space so that it doesn’t kill the romance.”

Games and staycations can be a brilliant way to spark romance and stop this period from feeling like an unrelenting Groundhog day, but on top of the boredom and impatience surrounding this pandemic, there is a lot of anxiety about the virus and families and these unprecedented times as a whole. One of M.D.D’s many counselling services regards mental health in the context of relationships, and the company is a key advocate for mental health, supporting and promoting Prince Harry’s Heads Together initiative. How should we comfort our partners if they’re feeling worried and how should we ask for comfort if we’re anxious in these times?

“Anxiety during this period is understandable. The unpredictability of this period is overwhelming, to say the least. It is important to communicate your feelings with your partner and be patient and supportive. Finances and jobs are a sensitive area at this time, create an environment that lets your partner feel comfortable at this time. Let your partner know your worries and fears and how this may be affecting your present behaviour. It is important to recognise your partner may be under strain at present which may result in some negative behaviour or possibly mood swings – do not take this personally.”

Although we are all facing a lot of uncertainty right now and all the elements of our lives have been changed by this pandemic, there is optimism and positivity to take away from it all. What message should couples keep in mind during this unprecedented period?

“The pandemic has been a strenuous period for us all but adversity is inevitable in life. There will be ups and downs and with patience, good communication, teamwork and resilience couples can get through this together. True love is shown by its unwavering strength through the tough times.”

As Nia says so well: “True love is shown by its unwavering strength through the tough times.”

Interview by Daisy Grace Greetham

The post Miss Date Doctor’s Director Nia Williams Gives Us Advice for Keeping the Isolation Love appeared first on Voir Fashion.

We are all well aware of the dangers of social media, and what it can present as a constant reminder of comparison. Often it has led many of us to feel unsatisfied with our lives, how we look, how we feel, what we’ve achieved; the list goes on.

If you were to honestly ask yourself ‘Do the people I follow online make me feel good about myself or push me to be the ultimate version of you?’, most would agree no. That is part of their job description; they are there are marketing experts to encourage you to buy items to live their perfect lives.

I’ve done it, my friends have, and I’m sure you have to. However, you grow to realise no matter how much you buy or do to feel like these people online; you never get the satisfaction you were looking for long-term.

I’ve watched the reality program Made in Chelsea on and off since it started, finding entertainment in their lives, following some of the cast on Instagram to see where they got their clothes from. There where it began for me at least following Mimi Bouchard.

While she had a relatively short stint on the program, I continued to follow her on my feed simply because I liked her style.

Mimi Bouchard, Mimi Method

However, as time passed, I noticed a definite change she began a journey of self-discovery. It’s noticeable to see that Mimi isn’t your average influencer shouting ‘look at me’ on Instagram but instead radiates the bliss of what you can achieve when you truly accept yourself. Now if you were to go onto her feed, you would find someone who is actively using their online space for good.

Mimi Method, Bouchard’s wellness platform she created earlier this year amid lockdown, is a space for your self-discovery teaching you how to become the best version of you, and ultimately to find that self-satisfaction many of us have been trying to achieve for so long.

We spoke to Mimi on how she started this journey, how she began her fast-growing platform, and finally, how during yet another lockdown we can genuinely use this time to transform ourselves into a content being.

You’ve been on a long journey from being on reality tv to where you are today, what would you say has been the driving moment or factor towards your amazing transformation? “The driving factor that led towards my transformation was realising that I am 100% responsible for my life. We all are. I wasn’t acting in alignment with my truest self, and I reached a point where I realised that there was more in this world for me. The reality show was a blessing in disguise, as I was so naive when I first started. It taught me to grow up and to be wary of who I trusted. The more I leaned into doing the things that made me feel good, the more I transformed into who I am today. I truly believe that understanding there’s a better life for you out there, practicing discipline, and creating healthy habits that keep you on track is the key to success. Meditation, reading, movement and eating quality foods are a few things that helped me transform from the inside, out.”

Could you explain Mimi Method to our readers? How would you say it differs from other health and wellbeing programs and sites? “Mimi Method is a holistic approach to health and wellness based on the following three pillars – Move, Nourish and Transform. Mimi Method bridges the gap between weight loss,

mindset, fitness, manifestation and nutrition. My guided meditations, healthy recipes and at- home Pilates workouts are all in video form. The program is all-encompassing because I’ve realised that people experience the greatest changes when their body and mind are in alignment with one another. Unlike other programs out there that focus on one area, Mimi Method ties the three most important aspects of transforming your life under one roof.”

What made you want to create Mimi Method as a platform? “For the past six years, I’ve been on my development journey where I’ve completely transformed my mind, body and diet. It was a process that took a lot of trial and error, and I wanted to create a platform where I could share all of my knowledge with my followers in one cohesive place. I also love the community that the Mimi Method platform has fostered, with girls all over the world sharing similar values and supporting one another on their personal growth journeys. Seeing these girls that subscribe to Mimi Method transform right before my eyes is truly the most rewarding part of it all – I love going through my DMs! There’s always a new heartwarming story to read. “

Mimi Bouchard, Mimi Method

For readers who aren’t familiar with mediation and its purpose, could you explain a little about why you started, what it brings to your life, and how you think it could help others? “The purpose of (my kind of) mediation is to train your mind to start thinking differently. Honestly, it’s more like hypnotherapy, but I don’t use that word much because it can scare some people off. I use mental rehearsal in a lot of my guided meditations as this is one of the best ways you can reprogram your mind to start choosing differently in your day-to-day life. We are all conditioned with beliefs, and most of us don’t realise that we have the power to change them. Meditation is so powerful and has completely transformed my life. I started meditating because I used to find myself falling victim to my emotions and letting them control me. Meditation is a tool that allows me to regain control over my mind and be less reactive. It’s also taught me how to breathe and refocus during moments of stress and anxiety. A lot of my meditations on Mimi Method are focused on the law of attraction to manifest your goals. I believe that everyone can find value in meditation, especially during these uncertain times, where so many things feel out of our control. I have truly created my dream life, dream body, dream relationship, dream career through doing inner work like this. “

What are your tips for people wanting to create their businesses from scratch? How did you find your niche and hone down on what you wanted to make? “I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart. I dropped out of college during my freshman year because I knew I was destined to do something different and forge my path. I hated rules. I wanted to be my own boss. One of my biggest tips for people wanting to create their own business is to take the risk and JUST START. Once you launch your business, you can always pivot and grow based on the feedback you receive. I found my niche in the health and wellness / personal development space because this was an area that I was truly so passionate about – I was always eager to learn about it and naturally wanted to share what I discovered. I knew I wanted to create the Mimi Method platform because I wanted to help other women tap into their innate power, transform their minds and bodies, and finally start living the lives of their dreams. I did it… so I knew I could teach it. I love helping people, and seeing my work change lives.”

A lot of our readers will understandably be struggling with being out of work, among many other things, during this crazy pandemic. How have you personally dealt with the Coronavirus pandemic, and what do you recommend to people who are feeling overwhelmed with it all?

“I’ve dealt with the pandemic by sticking to what I know makes me thrive: my healthy routines. My morning routine really helps me start my day off on the right foot, as well as feel a sense of normalcy and control. Meditating and moving daily helps my mindset too. It is easier said than done, and there are certainly days when I feel overwhelmed and anxious. On these days, I try to carve out some time for myself to get back to ME, the person I want to be. On these days, I try to practice discipline with a side of self-care, whether it be reading a good book while walking on the treadmill, meditating and doing some Pilates, or cleaning the house. I always feel like cleaning and organising helps my brain. My recommendation to anyone out there feeling overwhelmed: meditate. Trust me; you can control your mind more than you could ever imagine. You can completely reinvent yourself by the end of 2020 by doing the inner work. I almost feel guilty for saying it, but 2020 has been one of the best years of my life. I have had the time to delve into personal development, even more, I finally had the time to start my new business, and my relationships have a new depth to them. You can decide what you make of this year. “

At this time of year, a lot of people are getting colds and illnesses, let alone perhaps having Coronavirus. What are some tips you would give for when you’re feeling physically not well enough to move or meditate? How do you keep yourself from feeling guilty? “Great question! It’s so important to listen to your body and honor what you’re feeling. I try my best to act intuitively and listen to what my body is telling me it needs. If I’m feeling tired or under the weather, I’ll take it easy and maybe do some relaxing stretches. If even that feels like too much, I’ll nourish my body with healthy foods, hydrate with lots of water and be sure to get plenty of rest. I try my best to remind myself that no one is perfect 100% of the time, and there is no reason to feel guilty over this. One key area I focus on is my bounce back rate, meaning if I fall off the wagon or feel “off” for a day that’s okay, but what matters is how quickly I can get back on track. Remember, everyone is human!”

Mimi Bouchard, Mimi Method

You’re very open and honest about your continual journey to be kind to yourself and continuing to transform, despite having moments where you return to old thinking and feeling insecure. Could you explain to us your old mindset versus your mentality now? “In my old mindset, I was overly self-critical and was always so hard on myself. I used to approach exercise and health from a place of hating my body and wanting to change it desperately. Once I altered my thought patterns and approached health and wellness from a place of love and self-respect, everything clicked for me. I was finally treating my body well because I was so grateful for it! This healthy mindset not only made the journey so much more enjoyable, but I was also finally seeing the physical results I had always wanted. Working on my mentality has truly changed my body. It sounds crazy, but I no longer hold the emotional weight that I used to. Meditating on changing old unhealthy habits like overeating helped me too when it comes to weight loss. There are certainly moments where I find myself falling back into old thought patterns, but I am now able to catch myself and redirect my thoughts before falling too deep down that rabbit hole. I truly feel like this “new me” mentality is the real me. I just had to unlearn what I was conditioned to be my entire life. “

As someone who personally struggles with body dysmorphia, and at a time when exercise is made even harder, how do you tackle negative thoughts towards body image? “Oh girl, I feel so much love and compassion for you! I know how it feels. I’ve made so many strides in regard to my body image and learning how to love myself, but I still have moments where I’m affected by body dysmorphia too. One thing I do is practice gratitude towards my body because even on my “off” days, I can recognise that I’m so lucky to have a body that is healthy and able. Learning to extend more love and gratitude towards my body has helped me heal past disordered relationships with food and body dysmorphia. I’m also a huge advocate for intuitive eating. When I’m eating intuitively, I feel more connected to my body and feel as if I can trust my body. Lastly, doing the work that I know makes me feel unstoppable. Meditating daily, moving daily, and simply being who I want to be, even if I don’t feel “there” yet.

Your podcast The MIMIBEE Podcast is a somewhat supplement to Mimi Method, what’s your favourite podcast, and who do you hope to interview on it in the future? “This is such a tough question – I loved so many of the 210+ episodes of The MIMIBEE Podcast! One of the coolest episodes I’ve recorded was with Ed Mylett – episode #153. I find Ed to be so inspiring while remaining incredibly down to earth and open about his journey and experiences. Episode #101 with Kathrin Zenkina was also amazing. In the future, I’d love to interview Dr Joe Dispenza. His teachings are fascinating, and I’m obsessed with all of his work. I live by so many principles I’ve learned from him, and I’m going to one of his week-long events in January.”

Finally, what’s the development of the Mimi Method going to look like? What can people look forward to seeing? “Mimi Method is growing and evolving every single day. The platform already looks different than it did when I originally launched it in late June. I’m constantly striving to elevate the platform and am always listening to feedback from my amazing subscribers. One of the most recent changes is that I received my Pilates certification through Equinox, so I’m taking the workouts to the next level. Another recent addition to the platform is I’ve started to create scheduled calendars and programs based on goals and skill levels, such as a “7-Day Schedule for Beginners” or a “2-Day Weekend Reset”. I’m always looking to improve the Mimi Method platform, and there are so many exciting initiatives coming down the pipeline in the next few months! After launching a few short months ago, we already have thousands of subscribers and an amazing community. These girls are the ones that motivate me the most to keep going. Their positive feedback drives me.” You can find Mimi on @mimibouchard, mimimethod.com, and The Mimibee Podcast available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Interview by Hayley Barnes

Images via Mimi Method

The post How Mimi Bouchard Became Her Superwoman Self, and How You Can Too appeared first on Voir Fashion.

We’re in the second week of lockdown, so we’re giving you a list of the best live streams and virtual concerts that are coming up during this month of isolation…

November 12th

iHeartRadio are having a virtual HBCU homecoming bash, which includes performances from Khalid and H.E.R. The virtual events will take place on iHeartRadio’s youtube channel, H.E.R going live at 3 pm E.T and Khalid performing at 5 pm. H.E.R’s performance will follow a brilliant talk about female entrepreneurship by iHeartRadio presenter Angela Yee and some special guests.

Lil Yachty is performing on November 12th too, playing songs for his fans, with a merch drop and some special guests as well. Described by Lil Boat himself as ‘like nothing you’ve ever seen before’, the show will be streaming from LA with the surreal backdrop of Lil Yachty’s Dreamworld. The event takes place at 9:30 pm E.T and tickets can be bought here.

November 14th

Metallica are hosting a live acoustic event as a benefit concert for their charity All Within My Hands. The unplugged event also includes an auction and the band have stated that 100% of the money raised will go to the charity: a non-profit focused on supporting struggling communities in the US. The show will take place on the streaming platform nugs.tv and tickets and fan packages are available here.

November 18th

Burna Boy has announced a virtual concert next week streaming from London’s O2 Academy Brixton. The show comes after his recently released album Twice As Tall and will be available on smartphones, web browsers and VR headsets. The event starts at 7 pm G.M.T and tickets are available here.

Major Lazer are reviving their world tour this month after the release of their fourth studio album Music Is The Weapon. The virtual concert will take place on Facebook’s VR platform Oculus Venues. The performance is at 9 pm E.T and will feature some of the latest VR technology to be created. Tickets are free and available here.

Major Lazer, Feat Alessia Cara, Hell and High Water

November 27th

Dua Lipa is streaming a live warehouse performance at the end of November, that she promises will be ‘multi-dimensional’ in light of her intergalactic space disco album Future Nostalgia released earlier this year. She’ll be performing songs from this recent album, as well as the remix editions and her first album too. There will be dancers, aerialists and some celebrity guests, not to mention some brilliant sets inspired by rave, vogue and tv show scenes. The performance starts at 8:30 pm G.M.T on LIVENow, tickets are available here.

Words by Daisy Grace Greetham

Graphic by Sophia Zenonos

The post This Month’s Best Livestream Concerts You Can Watch From Your Bedroom appeared first on Voir Fashion.

The journey into self care is one everyone should take. After years of putting others before yourself, the idea of self-care can be negatively portrayed as selfishness or a poor substitute to real mental health services, but making a conscious decision to improve your mentality is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself – taking time to care for yourself can help you care for others.

Especially with the busy work schedules and unbreakable routines of the modern world, mindfulness and conscious reflection can be a difficult thing to begin, which is why we’ve come up with a reading list to help you start your journey into putting yourself first. Whether a 10 minute reflection a day, or a change to your whole perspective, the following journals and books will help you unlock a higher level of happiness.

The Little Book Of Self Care – Mel Noakes

Self-care coach Mel Noakes divides self care into three categories: ‘mind’, ‘body’ and ‘life’, in her 200 page book, making it a convenient, easy and to-the-point read. With tips, thought provoking quotes and easy-to-follow guidance on improving your mental and physical health, based on Noakes own experiences and her NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming) practices, this is the perfect book to dip in and out of, to trial different suggestions and to create your perfect self-care routine. Plus it can fit in your handbag.

Self Care For The Real World – Nadia Narain and Katia Narain Phillips

This book is for those afraid of the exclusivity of self care, often promoted by celebrities and influencers, who have the money and time. The book teaches about wellness and self-love without patronising, gate-keeping or overcomplicating, strongly encouraging the idea of self care no matter the circumstances.

How To Be Happy (Or At Least Less Sad) – Lee Crutchley

One of the most popular ways to reflect at the moment is through journaling. How To Be Happy (Or At Least Less Sad) is a creative workbook aimed to help you find happiness in the little things, providing a product of distraction, reflection and new perspectives. Aimed especially at those who struggle with depression or anxiety, checklists, meditative activities and bold quotes are Crutchley’s tactical way to start self-reflection.

Resilient – Rick Hanson Ph.D

From New York Times bestselling author and psychologist Dr Rick Hanson, Resilient mixes psychology, neuroscience and mindfulness to teach us how to gain composure and confidence in the face of adversity. The practical guide provides the reader with personal stories of resilience, conclusive suggestions and bona fide advice on solving conflicts with yourself and others.

The Headspace Guide to Mindfulness & Meditation – Andy Puddicombe

The Headspace Guide to Mindfulness & Meditation is the perfect introduction to self care and mindfulness, especially for those with busy schedules. The book’s mission is to provide 10 minutes of escape from the hustle and bustle of each day and any worries about the future or past. Convenient and easily accessible, Puddicombe has filled this book with daily exercises that practice finding calm, fulfillment and new ways to approach stress and fatigue. Whether you’re new to meditation or not, this book is a great way to get unstuck from the rut of modern living.

Ikigai – Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

The age-old Japanese concept of having happiness and purpose in life (Ikigai) is perfectly captured in this book, as it introduces the mindfulness methods used in Japan to make everyday meaningful, educating the reader on the ten rules of Ikigai and how the people who follow them live such long and full lives. Focussing on Okinawa – the Japanese island home to the world’s most Centenarians – the authors conducted interviews with residents to find the reasons for ikigai’s wonderful effects.

I Am Here Now – The Mindfulness Project

I Am Here Now is another brilliant journal and mindfulness guide. A way to destress and distract, The Mindfulness Project has curated the best collection of activities to focus on the here and now, to break habits and to cultivate a new awareness of your feelings. Drawing, colouring, writing and observing are just some of the simple methods of meditation this book provides.

Ignite Your Light – Jolene Hart

This book is the ultimate self care guide: recipes, skin care rituals, yoga suggestions and quizzes are featured in the book, along with educational profiles and guidance on relationships, resilience and releasing negative energy. Jolene Hart focuses on creating positive energy and a better perspective of the world.

You Are A Badass Everyday – Jen Sincero

This pocket-sized book is a motivational manifesto for personal transformation. New York Times’ bestselling author Jen Sincero empowers striving towards success through easy and accessible messages about surrounding yourself with positivity and staying focused. At less than 250 pages, it’s a perfect reiteration of her two previous books for people with busy schedules, whilst continuing her unapologetic, badass ideas to make new and improved points of motivation.

Gmorning, Gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me & You – Lin-Manuel Miranda

Hamilton: The Musical creator Lin-Manuel Miranda has created a little book of poetry that sparks self love and appreciation by the page. With cute drawings and thought provoking mini pep talks, it’s a great way to start your day or end it as it reminds you to appreciate things and recognise how important you are. Self care in the simplest form.

Words by Daisy Greetham

Graphics by Zhao

The post Shelf Care – 10 Books on Health, Wellness and You appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Throughout the unforgettable year that is 2020, small businesses have had to face hard challenges during lockdown earlier on in the year. With the rise of a second lockdown, independent businesses are likely to struggle financially once again, however with Christmas soon approaching we think it’s a great idea to keep in mind independent brands when finding the perfect gift to give your loved ones. At Voir we have curated top 10 brands to keep in mind this season, who are small but mighty!

3AM Eternal

Sister duo Emily and Caitlin Price have teamed forces to create up-cycling, circular fashion brand: 3AM Eternal, where they find vintage hidden gems and lovingly work on reviving the pieces by hand which is then available to purchase from their E-Store. Talking to Buro247, the sisters described their brand as “Playful, optic, fantasy.”.

Studded Petals Vintage

For lovers of luxury and vintage alike, online store Studded Petals Vintage has a beautiful curation of rare and nostalgic designer items available for purchase if you are looking for that something special, all the while empowering slow fashion and giving clothes a new loving home.

Bias Editions

There are a few staple fashion pieces in life that can be worn throughout the years and remain as timeless and elegant as each season passes. Silk slip dresses are one of those pieces. Bias Edition is an independent small-batch label, who constantly reinvent the slip dress in an array of shades for each of your moods. Worn alone or layered, the slip dress is made for day to night and for years to come.

Pêche

Neutral toned preppy silhouettes meet 90’s New York Street style at Pêche; a Brooklyn based fashion label providing wearable, quality pieces that can be worn across the seasons and be dressed up or down according to what the day ahead has planned for you.

Lara Intimates

Sustainable fashion has a growing presence in the fashion industry, but there has been less of a sustainable impact seen across underwear brands. Introducing: Lara Intimates. This Hackney owned brand is comprised of 7 machinists who create comfortable non-wired bras from deadstock fabric, ranging from sizes 26A-36GG.

Mukzin

Chinese label Mukzin blurs the line and embraces the culture fusion between traditional Chinese garments and Westernised wear. Expect bold and fantastical prints in a rainbow of bright colours, combined with a mixture of Eastern-inspired silhouettes and Western tailoring and streetwear.

Cinta The Label

Growing up on the Spanish shores, Cinta The Label’s founder Amy Sturgis was mesmerised by the vibrancy of flamenco dancers and has injected her love for Spanish culture into her brand, with a modern twist. Using the same silhouettes and fabrics used in flamenco dresses, Cinta The Label has created a collection of small-batch, wearable pieces that can be styled for your Spanish summers ahead.

The Line By K

Redefining what is known as basic wear, The Line By K is a female-led business that creates high quality, flattering everyday pieces that are ethically made in LA. With a focus on self-love and female empowerment, a statement on the brands’ website reads “We believe clothing has the power to alter the way you carry yourself, and we create with the intention that each piece can give you the confidence to take risks and do anything without seeking people’s approval.”.

Emma Brewin

If you aren’t a hat person, you will be after seeing the fun and vivacious hand made hats in Emma Brewin’s collection. Since quickly becoming an Instagram favourite with fashion influencers, the brand’s founder Emma has come a long way since making each pastel, fluffy bucket hat by hand in her home in Kent.

Réalisation Par

The meaning of ‘Réalisation Par’ translates to ‘made by, styled by’ and is a brand that proudly produces individual cult pieces, rather than collections. The women behind Réalisation Par, Alexandra Spencer and Teale Talbot have made the aim of their business to ensure each piece you purchase “to be an individual addition to your own personal style, and it is our desire, ultimately, to give you the confidence to wear it”.

Words by Sophia Zenonos

Graphics by Sophia Zenonos

The post 10 Small Fashion Brands To Lookout For This Lockdown appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Joggers: Alexander Wang. T Foundation logo cotton-blend sweatpants, £180

Jumper: Alexander Wang. T logo sleeve hoodie, £222

Coat: Rhuban Khaki Trench coat, £817

Bag: Gucci Dionysus Super Mini crossbody bag, £625

Shoes: Chanel CC Logo Pink Black Suede Sneaker, £1,200

Hat: Prada logo plaque baseball cap, £260

Earrings: Balenciaga Plug crystal-embellished earrings, £350

Loungewear set: Pretty Little Thing Cream Recycled Longline Jumper and Wide Leg Knitted Set, £40

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Esther 85mm croc-effect leather pumps, £525

Bag: Wandler Georgia leather shoulder bag, £590

Necklace: Brinker & Eliza Borrow from the Boys chain necklace, £115

Necklace: Märta Larsson 18k yellow gold vermeil The Raw One Rose Quartz necklace, £150

Ring: Monica Vinader Siren Stacking Moonstone ring, £80

Ring: Maria Black Phoenix Micro ring, £54

Earrings: Jil Sander mini hoop earrings, £230

Joggers: & Other Stories Oversized Organic Cotton Jogger Trousers, £55

Top: Pretty Little Thing Pink Washed Oversized T-Shirt, £12

Shoes: New Balance 827 Women’s, £65

Socks: Balenciaga Sponge socks with Balenciaga logo at front, £95

Bag: Valentino Garavani VSLING shoulder bag, £1,635

Rings: Joanna Laura Constantine set of four gold-plated rings, £150

Earrings: Balenciaga BB small stud earrings, £350

Hairclip: J.Crew Large hair clip in Italian tortoise, £22

Edit by Yasmin Norvill

Graphics by Victoria Zhao

The post Get The Look: Lockdown Loungewear Essentials To Add To Your Shopping Basket appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Lockdown 2.0 is here. Instead of panicking and starting to count the days why not make a list of all the movies and shows you haven’t had time to watch in these past months. Netflix is always there for us and this is the perfect time to take advantage of its wide array of shows, take a break from your remote routine and make your days a bit more entertaining without the necessity of going out.

Maybe you’re not in the mood to navigate its extensive list or watch shows based on its recommendations, which is why we’ve come up with a list of our own. A list with all our favourite latest shows, classic movies, awarded documentaries and much more. Check it out:

1. Ratched

Ratched, Netflix

Ryan Murphy’s latest series that’s got everyone’s attention. The story revolves around the infamous nurse Ratched interpreted by Sarah Paulson and taking inspiration from the movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. The medical villain was once again immortalized in the mediatic scene by Paulson’s acting and ‘Murphy-esque’ style. An intriguing watch and unpredictable story to add to your list.

2. Enola Holmes

Enola Holmes, Netflix

A fun and engaging spin to the usual Sherlock Holmes stories. Enola Holmes, interpreted by Millie Bobby Brown and directed by Harry Bradbeer, takes us on the journey of a strong and independent girl. A girl who’s willing to do anything to find her mother and prove herself not only to her brothers but the world.Daring, charming and witty are some of the characteristics that will make you love this character and get lost in her anecdotes and adventures.

3. American Murder: The Family Next Door

American Murder: The Family Next Door

The Netflix documentary tells the infuriating and heart-breaking story of the 2018 Watts family murders. It explores the disappearance of Shannan Watts and her children and everything that encompassed the after-math of this tragic event. With the use of social media posts, recordings, messages and even home videos it delves into the lives of the victims and role of the father and husband of the family. It’s worth a watch and will also helps us understand the superficiality of social media and how it can often make us create and believe in false realities…

4. Grand Army

Grand Army, Netflix

Based on the theatre play SLUT, the series created by Katie Cappiello is everything but your typical teenage drama. We live the story of five teenagers from the Grand Army High School and go through their reality of living and studying in Brooklyn in this modern era. Racism, prejudice, religion, inequality and privilege are just a few of the many topics you’ll hear about in the story of their chaotic world.

5. The Last Dance

The Last Dance, Netflix

A docuseries produced by ESPN that chronicles the career of Michael Jordan, considered the best basketball player in history. It focuses on the 1997/98 Chicago Bulls season, Michael Jordan’s last renown season in Chicago, as well as on Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman and coach Phil Jackson, the four people behind the strength and fame of the Bulls in the 90s making it one of the strongest teams in the NBA history. NO, you don’t need to be a basketball aficionado in order to watch the series, we can assure you that anyone will enjoy learning about the path and challenges of one of the most acclaimed athletes in the world. So why not give it a try?

6. The Holiday

The Holiday, classic trailers

A classic light-hearted rom-com to brighten up the upcoming cold days. With the incredible cast of Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black and many more you can’t but add it to your must-watch list. It’s ideal to take your mind off the lockdown days that may feel lonely. It focuses on women’s struggles and the challenging interdependence of professional and personal lives. From failed love experiences to workaholic habits and the importance of taking some time off, perfect for this season don’t you think?

7. Chewing Gum

Chewing Gum, Netflix

The comedic story of Tracey, a young black woman living in London in order to accomplish her goals, and honestly, also escaping the reality of her highly religious Christian family. A hilarious and maybe controversial watch that will make you reflect on the different realities that surround us and the importance of following your own dreams. Cheesy, we know, but at times that’s exactly what we need.

8. ‘David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet’

‘David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet’ , Netflix

The acclaimed documentary has been said to be the most important one of the year according to Forbes, and we can’t help but agree. David Attenborough’s latest documentary collects testimonies of experts and helps us understand the fight we’re currently undertaking for our future, or at least the one we should undertake. It may seem discouraging at first, but it’s completely the opposite. It’s an encouraging lesson, through this project the 93 years old naturalist is trying to teach us something and help us re-evaluate our role in this plane through explaining his.

9. Mindhunter

Mindhunter, Netflix

The series is based in the 1970s and tells the story of two FBI agents in their mission to understand the human mind, but any mind, the one of serial killers in order to get through them in a manner that had never been considered before. It’s based on the begging of profiling and the many challenges along the way for the method to be recognised. The perfect series for a lover of psychology and mystery.

10. Explained

Explained, Netflix

A good alternative if you’re looking for something more informative yet entertaining. A docuseries with short episodes focusing on different topics relevant to our contemporary society, from the wealth gap to monogamy. With episodes ranging from 16 to 25 minutes each making it the perfect option for someone with a short attention span, or someone with a busy schedule that wants to take a break without taking their mind completely off ongoing social issues. And if you happen to watch it and love it, there are a few spin-offs that will entertain you just as much, such as The Mind Explained or Sex Explained.

Words by Chiara Ferrari

Graphics by Victoria Zhao

The post Let the Netflix Binge Begin: Series and Movies to Get You Through the Month appeared first on Voir Fashion.

After the news of another lockdown on Saturday, we understand you might be feeling a little overwhelmed and underprepared, but in these slightly more precedent times there is room for growth and self-reflection – we’re here to help you with an optimistic message: we’ve been here before and it won’t be like this forever.

The new rules entail the closure of non-essential retail, restaurants, and leisure venues, and strict regulations on meeting people outside of your household, which you can do only outside and with one person. Schools and universities will remain open and work that can’t be done from home will still go ahead, while retail workers will have financial support no matter if employers are small or large, charitable or non-profit.

While the next month may feel like deja vu, there are things we can do differently this time around after making it through the first lockdown; we can use the isolation as time to work on ourselves – to take the time we would have spent on errands and procrastination to learn about ourselves, to find new things we love, to catch up on things we’ve been meaning to watch or read or listen to. We’ve compiled a list of things to do as lockdown starts, so that you can take advantage of this time.

Buy or make a journal

Journaling is a useful (and cute) way to reflect on what you want, what you need and how to get it. Journaling can also be a check-in tool, to look into how you’re feeling and to clear your thoughts. Answering questions and writing your goals and affirmations is a great daily habit to pick up during this lockdown to take some time for yourself and to help you on your path to achievement.

Schedule your week

Organising your week and setting daily goals is a great way to make each day feel productive. Whether it’s organising your shelves, sorting your wardrobe or getting a piece of work done, setting a task and achieving it can really make you feel like you’ve had a successful day.

Challenge yourself to find a new hobby

Going into the month with a new hobby in mind is a great way to fight off the boredom and maybe find a new online community to be a part of, it could be something completely new or something you saw someone else do the first time round… just maybe something other than baking more banana bread.

Lockdown resolutions

At the beginning of lockdown, you might want to write a list of things you want to achieve or improve on over this time, not so much the weekly, scheduled tasks but something you can look back on when we’re out of this isolation and can say that you’re proud of, this can be anything from reading a book to quitting a habit.

Find some positivity

There’s no doubt you’ll spend a lot of time on social media during isolation, so here’s a list of instagram accounts that will brighten up your timeline and keep you thinking positively:

@thegoodquote

This page focuses on self-development and reflection by posting art and literature. These posts will make you look at your life and your journeys with positivity and reflection.

@wearefeelgoodclub

The viral Instagram post that has seen millions of Instagram stories of people sharing the word that we made it through this lockdown, so we can do it again. If you need a bit of perspective and uplifting, @wearefeelgoodclub is where it’s at.

@effyourbeautystandards

This page fights back against the toxic thinspo sometimes associated with Instagram by celebrating the beautiful people defying society’s beauty standards and reminding us all how gorgeous we are.

@blessthemessy

Jess Bird is an artist who shares her beautiful graphics about mindfulness, mental health and love, including advice and quotes to think about.

@loveofhuns

This lockdown doesn’t have to be about working into the night, getting back on the Chloe Ting workout and keeping up the diet. Its always important to have a laugh through your Instagram feed. At this time, its needed.

Words by Daisy Grace Greetham

The post Lockdown 2.0: We Did the First One, We Can Make it Through The Second appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Since its debut in 2011, Black Mirror has become a Netflix phenomenon. It’s creator, Charlie Brooker, successfully chilled us all with 5 seasons of the sci-fi anthology series, leading us into cold alternate realities and realistically dystopian technological advances, enforcing messages about humanity and politics and the toxic power of social media. With recent rumours of a season 6 on the horizon and the constant comments on the likeness of this pandemic-stricken year with an episode of the show, we’ve compiled a list of the best Black Mirror episodes, in case you were in the mood for some satire and stylish skepticism.

Nosedive (s3 ep1)

‘Nosedive’ was an episode that could really hit home, one that everyone could relate to because of its depiction of social media in a future not so far away. Lacie (Bryce Dallas Howard) is a young woman in a world where people are publicly rated out of 5 stars for every interaction they have. The episode follows Lacie as she obsessively tries to get a high score, but after a fight with her brother, her interactions become worse and worse, and her score snowballs. Brooker remarked on a lot of the issues with social media in this episode: consumerism, capitalism, the way we seek validation from others, and with the episode’s ranking system paralleling platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Uber, it’s a universally relatable episode for this day and age.

Black Mirror, Nosedive

Be Right Back (s2 ep1)

One of the more romance-based episodes in the anthology, ‘Be Right Back’ explores love, grief, and consumerism, when following her boyfriend’s death, Martha (Hayley Atwell) invests in a program that can mimic him through his social media and digital impressions. Martha becomes infatuated with it, unconsciously channeling all her grief and heartbreak into an unhealthy obsession with this AI version of Ash (her boyfriend), further fuelled by the company’s advertisements and promotions, that eventually convince her to purchase a synthetic replica of Ash, so she can interact with him like he’s alive. Things begin to unravel when Martha realises he can’t replace the real Ash, enforcing the message of how soulless social media is: how personality traits and interests can be exaggerated or suppressed on social media. The episode is devastating, heart-breaking, and slightly scary all at once, with artistic direction and great actors.

Black Mirror, Be Right Back

Hated In The Nation (s3 Ep6)

At nearly 90 minutes, this episode is practically a full-blown movie. The story follows a detective in a UK not so different from ours, investigating some mysterious deaths. It has almost all of the traits of a British crime drama, with Brooker’s dark flair and a sci-fi storyline. Without us spoiling it for you, this episode draws a hypothetical about the potential power of empty death threats and violent comments on the internet and the oppressive mob mentality of a social media nation – in a way, it’s a subtle cyberbullying lesson for adults and leaves us thinking about ‘an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind’. A great plot, great actors, and, as always, there’s something to take away from it.

Black Mirror, Hated In The Nation

The Entire History Of You (s1 ep3)

‘The Entire History Of You’ is one of those episodes that really shows the incredible minds of Black Mirror’s creators, as their ingenious thoughts of the technological future are almost unimaginable to the rest of us. The particular future in this episode is one with “grains” – an implant that captures every single second of the day and saves it, so that you can replay any memory of exactly how it was inventive right? The story is focused on Liam, a man that becomes a victim of his own obsessive and unrelenting examinations of his life, as he starts to question his wife’s faithfulness. The “grains” prove to be detrimental in Liam’s case but are relied upon by the government, services, and employers, and so it becomes another Black Mirror example of technology vs humanity. The episode kind of makes you glad to have the simple ability to forget.

Black Mirror, The Entire History Of You

Hang the DJ (s4 ep4)

This is one of Black Mirror’s rare feel-good episodes, and now that we’ve told you, you don’t have to watch it so tensely. It is one of those “life is a simulation” types, but it is in the best way possible, as it follows two people in a dating community that predetermines the duration and subjects of your romantic relationships, and although they seem perfect for each other, they only get 12 hours together. The ideas in the episode parallel the current trends in dating: online dating, constant dating, matchmaking, and option paralysis – the inability to make a decision when presented with a wide range of choices. The episode is romantic, thought-provoking and, unusually for Brooker, optimistic.

Black Mirror, Hang the DJ

Black Museum (s4 ep6)

‘Black Museum’ is the perfect episode for Black Mirror fans, as not only does it follow the common brief of shock, technology, and macabre horror, but it features so many easter eggs and more obvious references to previous episodes. Every episode is practically linked together by this museum in the middle of nowhere, who’s rather creepy curator (Douglas Hodge), tells traveler stories about his technological recruitments and prototypes as they walk around the stuffy gallery, eventually coming to the museum’s most sinister attraction. There’s no real message to this episode, but it’s absolutely the most Black Mirror-y Black Mirror so far.

Black Mirror, Black Museum

Words by Daisy Greetham

The post The Best Black Mirror Episodes to Get You Through Lockdown Part 2 appeared first on Voir Fashion.