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advice

It’s (Not) All About The Music | What To Wear To A Festival

by Amber on February 18, 2010

Tomorrow I’m off with friends to Splore – a three day music festival where we’ll camp, dance and make like merry hippies. Hence I thought now is the perfect occasion to talk a little about what I’ve found works and what doesn’t when it comes to executing a fabulous festival outfit. After a lot of oh-so-tedious (not!) research at a multitude of concerts and gigs, I think I’ve got the basics down.

My picks for love a festival in a cold climate – it’s all about layers and balance (look good, keep warm):

- A simple merino wool dress will keep things looking cute; and whip away any moisture if you get damp. Merino is also notable for its “breath-ability” – it acts as a second skin with temperature control. Perfect for changing environments and crowd density.

- All the rest are just layers – a scarf to wrap on and off, a cloak or a gilet to loose yourself in (I am so partial to faux-fur right now), stockings, chunky motorcycle boots etc etc. You know the drill!

- I like the idea of fingerless gloves – they let you easily nip into your bag and grab things… It’s good to be dexterous!

- A clutch with a strap is also useful. Ever tried to get into a bag that’s hanging off a arm encased in a coat? Well, if you’re anything like me you’ll find coats hinder all movement. A clutch on a strap keeps things where you can see it, and makes for easy access.

This is my fail-proof uniform for an outdoor love-hippies-at-one-with-nature event, a la Splore*:

- Covered shoes (preferably sneakers with thick soles) to protect my feet from the elements.

- Dark shorts – there might be a lot of sitting on dusty/grassy ground, so keep the colour dark to avoid stains. The short option keeps you looking ladylike – I’ve seen it a million times – a girl sitting on a hill in a skirt, flashing the world. Don’t be that gal.

- This is the place where you can afford to have jangly, pretty jewellery – as hopefully there will be enough space for you all to wiggle to the music in peace – and therefore not rip any one’s skin to pieces with your accessories. Bon.

- An analog camera. Keeping it organic.

- A satchel big enough to carry all my junk while I’m away from camp.

- A big ass sun hat to keep your neck and face happy. Don’t forget to put SPF everywhere else though, including the backs of your hands!

* That is Laza sitting on the Tree Of Life at Splore 2008. I am conveniently standing behind the outfit.

For an inner city summer stomp think of the Girl Scout motto – “Be Prepared” – for any weather, any crowd:

- This is the place where you can afford to wear cute shoes. The ground will usually be paved so you can survive with a little heel, or some wedges. Want something strappy but tough? Try a Roman sandal, like you used to wear at school, they take a lot of punishment!

- I am a massive fan of the onsie – they’re playful, look good and you only have to make a single decision. Just make sure it isn’t too hard to slip in and out of when you pay a visit to the port-a-loo. Also, choose a playsuit made out of cotton rather than your fancy Karen Walker silk one if you’re worried about festival damage.

- Nylon raincoats scrunch up to fit in even the smallest bag. Bring your own if you don’t want to end up wearing a cheapie poncho, or worse – a garbage bag! I adore my Moochi raincoat.

- Packed festivals are no places to party with a digital camera (especially a DSLR). Unless you’ve got a tether and hella good protection, go disposable! If it gets lost in the fray, no worries. Diamante encrusted throwaway anyone?

And in brief…

BAD: Silk play suits, jeans, complicated wraps, bulky handbags, mega expensive/cherished garments, delicate accessories, pastels (careful careful), flashing the world.

GOOD: Sundresses, cotton stretch onesies, small satchels, disposable cameras, skin protection, merino wool, flexibility, deodorant, layers, cardigans (tie them round your waist, make a turban, whatever!), happy attitudes, good friends.

Agree? Disagree? Do you have a fail safe festival costume you rock every time, perhaps experiment depending on the event, or do you always show up in the same thing you usually wear out?

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Naming 101: Naming Your Brand Or Business

by Amber on October 9, 2009

Hello! Naming your business or brand?

“In this competitive era, choosing company and product names is the single most important marketing decisions businesses face”

Jack Trout, Business 2.0

Whether you’re naming a baby, a label, a product, blog or a band, a great moniker can propel your little fire-starter to new heights. Great names are a powerful branding force that can work to differentiate you from your competitors, provide creative marketing inspiration, sell a benefit and emotionally connect with customers. This applies to people too! Would Norma Jean have met the same success as the bombshell Marilyn Monroe did?

While many well known brand names appear to have been coined with a touch of luck and some great minds; dig deep and you’ll find most of them have been through rigorous development to get to the magic. The best thing however is that names are free! Taking the time to develop one could be one of the most valuable investments a company ever makes.

So, what makes a great name? While they can come from anywhere, it pays to develop one that has entrenched significance within your company and the service or product you offer. This is a fantastic opportunity to hook people in, because every name tells a tale. Is there a connection to family, place or a technique? Vogels bread taps into a tradition of health and wellbeing – as championed by naturalist Alfred Vogel (who has lent his name to all sorts of other products, including vitamins).

42below

Another kiwi name favourite is 42Below. The vodka peddlers developed a modern name with a great shape (to design to) that tells a great story.“42 Below what?” – it gives them a chance to talk about the origins and purity of their product. Look for a hook into your wider brand story.

It’s also important to create a name that’s in it for the long haul. In 1990 including the numbers 2000 after your brand name seemed to be in vogue and future forward. In 2009, it’s not such a good look. New Zealand company Rakon, makers of GPS chipsets, were named for ‘radio control’ in 1967 – despite giant technological advances, their name still stands in today’s market.  Consider playing with your name a little bit – mash-ups can be fun!

The sound has got to match the spelling. The most marketable names are ones that are easily spelled. For example, you could call your range of designer lunchboxes “Kool Kyds Bentos” – because k’s look edgy. It’s an extreme example, but do consider the sales potential if someone could find your website or phone number after overhearing a conversation. Making sure your brand name works both verbally and on the page is vital.

twitter

Twitter – playful, easy to spell and easy to find.

At the end of the day, names are like first impressions, they can be changed; and actions will always speak louder than words. A fabulous handle never hurt anyone though!

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Now we’ve discovered what’s in a name; here’s a basic naming process for you to follow:

RESEARCH: Do your research – analyse your strategy/business plan, for clues, investigate current names out in the market and explore your point of difference.

SCOPE: Scope out several different territories based on your research.

These may include -

• Abstract/random non related territory/unique and original.
• Descriptive territory of product/service proposition.
• Emotional focus/benefit.
• Future focus to territory (not numbers, think advancements).
• Word/spelling play, clever manipulation of words and sounds, mash-ups.

What are the emotional/functional needs of the territories explored?

CREATION: Come up with a range of names within each territory explored. No name is too silly or obscure – pop them all down on your list!

Outline and rank names in relation to project through shortlist.

Conduct a name search – has it been taken and linguistic appropriateness – culture etc.

ELIMINATION: Narrow down to two directions – check for availability on websites, company register, Google search results.

TESTING: Test your names – pitch them to friends, family and potential clients. Swirl the names around in all situations. Like a fine wine – what’s the mouth feel? Does it work with your elevator pitch? Are there any potential spelling disasters?

Finally, name it!

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This article first appeared on Etch Magazine – New Zealand’s online business and lifestyle magazine for young Kiwis. Check it out.

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HOT SHOPPING TIP

by Amber on August 26, 2009

Today’s hot shopping tip is to turn your shopping experience global. It’s time to take advantage of the plethora of online stores and your geographic location, to snag some bargains. So, say you’re like me, currently twiddling your cold little fingers in Oceania, there’s no better time than to plug in some Northern Hemisphere sites and check out what summer frocks they have up for sale. It’s also a fabulous opportunity to investigate new brands and designers.

Global Online Shopping

To get you started, I’ve listed a few suggested shops that do ship over yonder seas. Explore, save and hang out eagerly waiting for the delivery of some new threads by your letterbox.

If you live in the Southern Hemisphere:

- In case you were under a rock, a Southern Alp or on a self enforced break from the Internet (ha!), you’ll know that Topshop now ships to New Zealand and Australia! Summer frocks and rompers ahoy.

- American Apparel is great for boys, basics, nerdy accessories and ice skating dresses for summer. Hint: Find a shipping/discount code to make your purchase that much sweeter.

- Pixie Market is the home of many fantastically creative fashion designers. Plus there’s free international shipping for all orders over US$250.

- The Outnet, La Garconne and Shopbop are my picks for high end designer garments. It’s possible to find huge discounts on all the brands you covet at the end of season.

If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, obviously you kids have hella more choices when it comes to stores & shipping. However you may like to check out these options:

- Witchery is an Aussie chain store – good for simple, elegant pieces. They love neutral colours and their jewellery/scarves/bags are fantastic.

- Cool as a… General Cucumber. A good place to pick up the best pieces from New Zealand’s darker designers. Highlights include Gothic stalwarts Zambesi, the luxe leather work of Deadly Ponies and Jaeha – Alex Kim’s brilliant label.

- MyCatwalk stocks a plethora of cute Aussie & Kiwi designers – including Romance Was Born (get in there for their new tights!) and Elke Kramer’s heart stoppingly awesome laminate jewllery.

(Inspired by Rural Report, New Zealand Fashion Quarterly, Summer 2008)

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Taking Care Of Your Cheap Bling

by Amber on August 3, 2009

Cheap Bling

If you’re anything like me you’ve got a whole stack of cheap but precious jewellery stashed on your dresser. Mood rings, beach trinkets, costume jewellery and vintage buttons on a chain. Here’s a couple of tips to help you take care of your accessories and treasure your bling for longer!

+ Use a clear nail varnish to seal your accessory – you’ll prevent the metal tarnishing quickly. This action will also help prevent naughty metals like nickel causing an allergic reaction (fabulous for those tacky rings).

+ Keep the cheap goodies away from water. This means showers, baths, spas, pools and saunas! The deadly combination of chemicals and water is one way to ensure your “jewels” disintegrate quickly.

+ Stay organised. Treat your cheap bling like real gems – keep your necklaces separated, rings on ring tree, etc. Chains need to be fastened before you store them, and earrings need to be kept as a pair with their butterflies/backs.

If you’ve got a huge box of accessories and nowhere to hang your various necklaces, I recommend the use of small plastic craft bags – one bag per item – to keep everything separate and easy to view.

+ Love it? Buy two! If it’s really that special (and cheap), why not buy two? Just in case… If it’s chain store or vintage, chances are you’ll not find the gem of your collection again.

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“All that glitters is not gold.”

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10 MORE FUN THINGS TO DO FOR CHEAP OR FREE

by Amber on July 6, 2009

I had a very thrifty weekend, but I did a hell of a lot! It was inspiration to write about 10 more cheap thrills. See this post for 30 other fun things to do for less.

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The focus is on things you can do that don’t involve spending a lot of money – to relax, entertain or simply change tack away from the couch:

1. Visit your local gourmet food market. My favourite Auckland spot is the Parnell Farmers Market – places like these often have samples galore. Learn a little bit, taste a little bit and have a chat with vendors! I usually head straight to the fromagerie.

Cheese

2. Meet a friend for coffee. Or don’t. Develop a love of herbal tea – it saves you money and buys you time! At most cafes (for the price of a latte) you’ll get you get an entire pot of tea, giving you longer to loiter, chat, work on your screenplay. My little red pot of raspberry and peach tea cost $3.00!

3. Cook something laborious from scratch. It doesn’t have to be expensive – just time consuming! Think vegetable risotto with homemade bread. Invite friends around and add a bottle of wine for an instant dinner party.

4. Find a cheap nail salon and get an outrageous manicure. Orange and aqua with diamantes. Leopard print. Cute fruits? I particularly love the elaborate drying process and reading trashy mags while my nails harden. Another option is to grab one of your girlfriends and do it yourself.

5. Find an addictive computer game and clock that mother. I favour Roller Coaster Tycoon and other old school games I wanted to dominate as a kid.

6. Go for a run. It’s free, you get fit and some fresh air. Win win.

7. Host a couchsurfer. Do a weary traveller a favour by offering them a couch, and in exchange you’ll enjoy scintillating conversation, a taste of a new culture and perhaps make a new friend! Do give it a go, you weren’t sitting on that couch anyway.

8. Make a pinhole camera!

9. Structured photo missions - shoot yellow hues only, snap pictures of things starting with A, circles, whatever. Choose something and stick to it. This is one of my favourite time wasting activities – it’ll make you look at the world with fresh eyes!

10. Play pool. Hanging out at a pool hall for a few hours won’t cost much at all… improve your skills, drink, talk a load of crap with your friends or just soak up the atmosphere. The mustier the hall, the better!

pool hall

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What do you do to entertain yourself that’s affordable, and rad? I’d love to know!

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HOW TO BUY A MEN’S SHIRT

by Amber on July 1, 2009

Whether for your good self (or ladies, for your nearest dude!), it is imperative to know what you’re in for when you go shopping for men’s shirts. A great fit makes all the difference in looking like a true professional, while knowing how to choose good material will make life a whole lot easier!

Dior Homme - this is a slim fit...

As my friend Matt can testify, wearing a great shirt changes people’s perception instantly. In a tee you may be vaguely recognizable as the DJ from some club, but wearing a shirt you’re transformed into trusted professional. Yes, I will give you my money. Sweet.

Whether you’ve bought 30 shirts already or you’re about to buy your first one, it’s always nice to be reminded of the basic rules. So, with your best image interests at heart, here are a few guidelines to follow when shirt shopping:

MEASURE UP

Size and fit are the two most important things to think about when buying a shirt. First, you’re going to need to know a couple of measurements: neck and sleeve length.

[click to continue…]

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WORDS OF WISDOM: COMMIT TO IT

by Amber on July 1, 2009

Advice I received recently from a very smart cookie:

"Don't commit to things in bits, commit to what you have already. Build on it."

Stick at it, hunker down. Finish writing one great novel rather than starting 50 mediocre opening chapters. It’s about balance too – don’t spread yourself too thin… build the castle, then work on all the other bits of empire.

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Roller Girl – The Cutest Skates

by Amber on June 14, 2009

A question from Courtney, a beleaguered disco-bunny:

“…I just want a pair of roller skates! Where would I buy these?”

Alice Dellal

Dearest Courtney,

I know, me too. I’m sure you want more than a simple pair of roller skates too… you want the cutest ones out! A pair so ace you’ll want to wear them 24/7. Just imagine the fun to be had skating around your house in the morning, pouring cereal for breakfast and opening the curtains… Le sigh!

You’re going to want to try them on for a good fit, so to start off your search by popping into your local big box sports retailer first (in New Zealand I suggest Rebel Sport). If you have children sized feet you’re probably going to be in luck – kids always seem to have great skates. If you can’t find anything, fear not, your next move is to turn to the internet!

Here are my top 5 picks from the online skate merchants I found:

1. I declare the Riedell Palomino Deluxe Ladies model to be the Cadillac of roller skates! Hand coloured in teal, red or any other colour you like, they will be sure to turn heads as you whip past:

teal-skates

2. However don’t worry if you’re on a tighter budget – Zappos will sell you these sweet pink wheeled women’s Chicago Rink Skates for an affordable US$55:

chicago-rink-skate

3. I read about the Preen x Nokia skate collaboration on Fur Coat No Knickers last year. Alice Dellal was the face of their skates-love-child and associated UK events (as seen above). Who knows if you’ll be able to find the skates now (try eBay), but they too super-styling to ignore:

preen-roller-skates

4. The Rollergirl website sells a ton of different styles, so do look there – there’s something for everyone, including vinyl skates for vegans and others who don’t want to wear leather. I really liked the Electric Lady style in pink but they allow you to customise your lace and wheel colour combination.

electric lady skates

5. If you’re going to get into Roller Derby, you’re going to need more hardcore equipment.

“Roller Derby’s Classic 300 Women’s Quad Roller Skate features a freestyle boot with quilted leather lining and reinforced ankle support for a better skating performance. The Vacuum Chrome Nylon chassis, with the Double Action Cushion Aluminum trucks, provides enhanced control. The 56mm Grip Lite Speed Urethane and ABEC-3 bearings wheels provide a fast ride with smooth traction.”

Now I don’t know what it all means but it sounds extreme. Here’s a a visual reference – I’m digging the green:

roller derby skates

Phew! There’s lot to choose from. To finish, I leave you with a styling suggestion from French Vogue – pair your skates with bubblegum coloured acrylic bangles, a sequined mini and delicately patterned hosiery.

vogue-paris-skates

Your location may vary – but no doubt your satorial excellence and the fun you’re having with your new wheels will cause you to writhe on the ground in glee! ❤

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CFS-ACELIFT

by Amber on May 27, 2009

Currently I’m working with a designer to remodel this blog from top to toe – which is thrilling step to take in a little blog’s life.

Why work with a designer? To put it simply, they make things not only look better (whether that’s more professional, fresher or friendlier) – but they make things work better. Logically, if things both look and work better, you’ll be able to deliver your message even more clearly… and that’s the aim of the game!

Pantone

Of course, it can be a scary prospect to work with a designer if you don’t know the various stages or aren’t too sure of the lingo. While I work with designers every day (they’re a beautiful breed) – I realise many people haven’t had the same joy.

That’s why over the next few weeks I’ll be taking this opportunity to take you step by step through the design process and give you an insight as to what it’s like to work with a graphic designer – from a client’s point of view.

MEET THE DESIGNER

Emma K I’ll be working with my friend, and frequent collaborator, Emma Kaniuk. She has a particularly genius approach to typography, publication design and small identities.

Aside from being an awesome designer, Emma is an accomplished foodie and frequent globetrotter!

Stay tuned as we take this beast on and give it a fresh new look.

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CFS LOVES 21

by Amber on May 8, 2009

CFS Loves

bamboo bicycle

  • Sweet bikes made out of wood. If you’re in New York you can take a 2-day class on making a bamboo bicycle – rad!
  • Thinking outside the square with alternative materials and techniques, tattoo artist Scott Campbell has created a series of laser cut currency. Each stack is formed from one dollar bills. They were part of his Make It Rain solo show at O.H.W.O.W. Gallery. I adore the skulls!

Scott Campbell

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30 FUN THINGS TO DO FOR CHEAP OR FREE

by Amber on April 21, 2009

It seems everyone you talk to now days is saving their pennies. Post travel extravaganza, I’ll be looking to plot and save for my next adventure. However, that doesn’t mean lying on my bed staring at the ceiling!

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Here’s a list of things you can do that don’t involve spending a lot of money – to relax, entertain or simply change tack away from the couch:

1. Instead of storing them, cut up your old magazines and create inspiration notebooks to refer to. I find this process incredibly relaxing, from destroying the magazine spines (kneel on them & tug) to snipping out bouffant hairdos.

2. Indulge in a single scoop of the most decadent flavoured gelato. My local has incredible flavours like Ferrero Rocher, Red Bull and Forrest Fruits.

3. Pick up brochures from your local information centre/historical society that give you self guided routes. Follow the walks to learn about your ‘hood!

4. Reorganise your CD/record/book/DVD collection with an alternate approach. Genre, year, alphabetical, spine colour. It’s time to get OCD.

5. Meditate. Focus on breath work first if you are having a hard time quelling your mind.

6. Set challenges for yourself. Abstain from alcohol, coffee, sex or chocolate for a month. Whatever your vice, keep away and you will be entertained no end. At the end you may even feel better. Too hard? How about a challenge to win $1000 worth of prizes in a month. Keep, swap, sell!

7. Attend art gallery openings. They are always good for filling those Monday and Tuesday evenings, and there’s almost always wine. Mm, wine culture!

8. Bands always need people in their music videos aka “a crowd of raging fans”. Go along and adopt a band, it’s always really really fun to rock out of control (even if they’re bad).

9. Feed ducks at your local pond. This is especially rewarding in spring when there’s ducklings and cygnets, aw.

10. Swim in the ocean. Or the lake! Try a variety of weathers – swimming in the sea when it’s raining is one of my favourite things ever.

swimming

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11. Go camping for a single night in your nearest regional/national park. You get fresh air, a change of scenery and a mini hassle free adventure.

12. Become an origami expert - there’s lots of good videos on YouTube. A friend of mine is a champ at making tiny piglets!

13. Go thrift shopping, limiting yourself to $10 or less. What can you get? Something weird, classy, cool or for your best friend (I always buy old man cardigans for my bffs).

14. Make stupid videos - I spent serious time making this video as part of going away card. You can do better, rise to the level of internet meme… hours of fun!

15. Geek out and become the kind of person who can name plants and tell you all about their secret lives. Every time people see my tattoos they shoot me botany questions, so I am starting to gather a little knowledge on hydrangeas. Why yes, that is a Hydrangea macrophylla! (Boys who can name plants are incredibly sexy by the way. Swoon. Combine that skill with a picnic in a garden and I’m yours.)

16. On that note, organise a picnic with friends. Each of you is to bring one plate of treats, someone is to bring a blanket and voila! A modern feast.

17. Listen to the entire body of work by one musician/band. Form an opinion. Share that opinion. No idea? Start with Bob Dylan.

18. Likewise, read the entire body of an author’s work. Borrow these (potentially stacks) of books from the library. No idea? Start with Joyce Carol Oates.

19. Start a blog. I heart Wordpress and there’s a free hosted version available. Vent, rant, discuss, share what you’re thinking in that cute lil head of yours… and tell me when you’ve done so!

20. Scan old photographs and reminisce. Even better, do it with a friend. You can talk abut times that were, or the times that explain why you are who you are today. Fun.

old-photographs

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21. Pub quizzes are grand. Drink a beer, squabble with your friends and learn some new facts. If you go every week your accumulated bar tabs will start covering the entire team’s drinks! Good for those empty Mondays and Tuesdays.

22. Acquire language tapes and learn a new tongue. I like putting Plimsleur lessons on my iPod and brushing up on my Japanese while running.

23. Make play-dough. I’m serious. Get back to your childhood and whip up a batch of dough (recipe here) and use food colouring to dye it wild hues. Sculpt and carve away your frustrations!

24. Plan that trip. Get into the nitty gritty of itineraries and budgets. Research: how much for that Cuban visa? How much for a meaty snack on the Trans-Siberian railway? What’s a good local coffee shop to visit in Glasgow?

25.  DIY some fashion. Dainty tights, studded ballet flats and mini top-hats to decorate thy head. Learn to knit if you can’t already!

26. Write letters to all your nearest and dearest letting them know some of the reasons why you appreciate them… “I love you because you are not afraid to be silly and dance like a maniac with me, we share a Japanese obsession and I can always encourage you to do shots.” Post them.

27. Craft haiku. Modern ones, innit. I’ve written haiku about Trent Reznor’s hair, the emotional toll of public buses and the smell of the sea when you’re in love.

28. Head to your nearest mega-chain-book store like Borders - the modern library. Sit down somewhere paw at all the latest editions of foreign magazines, lap up the latest sci-fi fiction or read some manga. Then leave, without paying a cent. Muahaha! Sometimes if I’m feeling saucy I take my pile of reading material to the cafe and splash out on a ridiculously named coffee.

29. Gig guides and event listings are your friends! You should be able to find a free event to attend every night of the week. Go forth and discover new venues, music styles and subcultures. Raves, Romanian folk or clubs laid out like rabbit warrens – explore them all!

30. Live near the country? See if there is somewhere you can pick your own fruit and vegetables, or head to your local urban farmers market. Then take your seasonal produce and get in touch with your domestic side. For example, if you could get cheap fruit, there’s a world of preserves and jams to explore. Failing that, grab a bottle of vodka – there is always litres of cocktails to be made!

Domestic efforts

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EXTRA EXTRA! Read about 10 More Fun Things To Do For Cheap or Free. Hurrah!

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Avoiding Jet Lag And Other Long Haul Tips

by Amber on April 16, 2009

Out the plane window

Ah, jetsetting… I love to fly. In fact before we reach the midpoint of this year, I will have racked up more than 15 flights. (Oops, that’s a lot of carbon. Hopefully my vegetarianism, lack of car and other paid offsetting will help!)

Of course with this much zipping around the world (it turns out I haven’t spent one Easter in New Zealand in the last 5 years) I’ve got the art of long haul flying down. Here’s some helpful things to keep in mind before and during your flight:

JET LAG

+ Water, water everywhere. Please do not consume alcohol, it’ll just make you feel sluggish, which is not good when your body clock is going to be topsy turvey anyway. Alcohol also dehydrates you and when combined with air-con = DANGER… abstain and your skin will thank you.

+ A homeopathic remedy could aid your jet lag woes. I loved using ‘No Jet Lag’ – chewable tablets that relieved symptoms. After using these twice on extreme long distance flights, I declare them a lifesaver.

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SLEEP

+ As soon as you get on the plane, set your watch to local time and start to live by it. No sleep until your destination is sleeping!

+ Like falling asleep to music? Make a calming play list to help you settle in for a nap. My favourite sleepy mix features The Eels and Otis Redding amongst others.

+ Masks are good for blocking out the light and forgetting the presence of your fellow travellers. Zone out. No mask? A scarf works a treat, or as I discovered rather recently, fabric headbands can also be employed for this purpose.

Sleeping Mask

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EAT

+ Make food a trouble free experience by ordering vegetarian/vegan. It solves all the mystery meat issues and lessens the chances of an upset tummy. As a bonus, specially requested meals are always served first, mitigating any annoying waits.

+ Be sure to try a nibble of everything – stretch out those minutes.

+ Snacks are always entertaining. I like dried fruit and muesli bars the best – good for keeping your energy levels up and you can indulge in some variety. Chocolate is a super treat to keep your spirits and sugar levels high.

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ENTERTAINMENT

+ Nothing beats a good book for whiling away the hours. Here’s 5 good reads I have enjoyed while travelling:

  • Con Brio by Brina Svit, light French fiction about a novelist’s tempestuous relationship.
  • Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell – you’ll step off the plane incredibly inspired and motivated. Also, since reading this I’ve referenced it about 10 times for work too. Business and pleasure!
  • The Wind Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami – a lengthy, engaging read – this one will have you set both there and back.
  • Pattern Recognition by William Gibson – globetrotting digital adventures slash dream brand land. I like Gibson, his work drips with adjectives.
  • If it’s SERIOUS travelling and you like fantasy, try Robert Jordan’s Wheel Of Time series. It’s epic – eleven books so far, plus companion volumes. You could possibly stretch the books out to last a good six months of globe trotting…

travel-reads

+ Indulge in a movie marathon. Do it. Catch up on everything you always meant to see but didn’t. I’ve recently enjoyed Woody Allen’s Manhattan, Slumdog Millionaire, Madagascar 2 and Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist. BYO Jaffas or favourite cinema snacks.

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

If you’re looking to fly with an airline with particularly extensive entertainment system, I vote for Air New Zealand it’s one of the world’s best. Singapore Airlines is also renowned for its Kris World system. Games, music, movies, good times!

+ If you’re travelling with a companion, have a debate. Try a good intellectual chinwag about the merits of Nietzsche, or a lighter discussion on whether undercuts are really that naff (no!). Attempt to solve the world’s problems in 10 hours.

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GENERAL COMFORT

+ Bring a pair of shoes you can slip out of as soon as you get on the plane. Travellers to the US and the UK will also appreciate the ease of slip-on shoes when it comes to security checks. While wearing your favourite boots can save space in your luggage, taking them on and off constantly will only interrupt your flow.

+ Pack a spare pair of socks in your hand luggage to change into for the second half of your journey – it’ll help your feet feel a bit fresher! A clean pair of undies is also useful – you never know when you’ll be delayed.

+ Put your boarding pass in a safe place like a note book or travel wallet – you’ll need it if you’re transferring, and then again when your home to check/collect airline rewards. I always seem to lose mine… Do as I say, not as I do, so watch out – they’re slippery beasties!

Boarding Pass

Hold on tight!

+ Long hair? Keep it tied up and off your face. A fabric headband works wonders. If it’s not 3am when you land, brush your hair before you disembark. It’ll make you feel a lot better about taking on the duty free shopping or meeting someone special at the other end.

+ If you’re feeling a bit poorly, do take a break from the confines of your seat. Walk round the plane, definitely do the plane exercises that make you (and I) feel self conscious. When you return to your seat, breathe deeply and relax your shoulders. Drink water regularly.

+ Above all else, be kind to your fellow passengers, officials and crew. Travel karma is good to accrue. No matter what happens, remain calm and maintain a positive demeanour. Don’t worry, you’ll be there soon – godspeed!

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HOW TO HAVE THE PERFECT EASTER

by Amber on April 10, 2009

Cadbury Creme Egg

Just eat one. Indulge ceremoniously, making the moment stretch out as long as possible. Get dressed up for the occasion if you feel like it, perhaps with some decorative head wear (boys and girls both).

A lesson in finding bliss in moderation ❤

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HOW TO LIGHT YOUR BEDROOM

by Amber on March 24, 2009

Lighting is incredibly important. It sets the mood, the atmosphere and the scale of a room. Would you rather go to a starkly lit dinner party or one possessing a comfortable glow? I think the glow is optimal; the lighting of our favourite little restaurant is something we should aspire to in our own spaces.

Light

Thanks to a past life as a cinematography student and current forays into photography, I’ve learned what makes people and eyes happy. Thus, I offer my view on how to perfectly light your bedroom, your boudoir.

masculine bedroom

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So how do we create friendly environments with light? My philosophy is to layer lamps across a room. This is to create rooms that we enjoy being in as well as simply shells in which to rest our bodies and keep our stuff. Aside from making the most of natural light sources, I believe there is one golden rule to great lighting:

Nothing is to be lit directly from overhead!

Bedrooms are for relaxing, not washed out faces. You want to feel your best in your bedroom, not be squinting and squirming at the sight of your nose casting bizarre cubist shadows everywhere. To achieve a warmly lit bedroom scene, I use three tiers of lighting: atmospheric, task and decorative.

ATMOSPHERIC:

These are the main sources of light in the room. I love the liberal use of standing floor lamps, preferably at different levels. However most bedrooms are average sized and therefore don’t necessitate a forest of lamps. A more appropriate set up therefore would be a low floor lamp (such as a globe), a table height lamp and a large standing light source.

lamps

TASK:

This layer is about the lights above your mirror and your bedside lamps. The functional stuff shouldn’t be neglected – making sure your bases are covered will make everything that much more harmonious and liveable:

  • It’s highly recommended that if you are sharing a bedroom, make sure there is two separately controlled beside light sources. Me? I like to have two lamps anyway, so it doesn’t matter which side I stretch out to sleep on, hee.

Side light

  • A light source above your mirror will save time; whether doing your make up, plucking nose hairs or just general preening. Fumbling in the dark always hinders “going out” preparation.
  • If you must have a desk or workspace in your room (if only we all had the space to make bedrooms only for sleeping and relaxing in), allow it its own light source, with a high wattage bulb. No need for utilitarian pieces here however… check out this piece of lamp porn by industrial design demigod Yves Béhar, the Leaf Light:

Leaf Light

DECORATIVE:

This layer serves the purpose of adding magic to your rituals (like drinking tea before bed), for romance and for when Stella McCartney hires your bedroom for a lingerie shoot or your mates band needs a suitably captivating location for their latest video.

  • Indulge in a variety of beautiful candles or use some sparkling fairy lights!
  • Embrace different colours – blue light disco or red light district? I wish a light rope came in a lilac.

red rope

  • Try digging around antique or curios stores to discover a crazy feature piece – I have always wanted a giant glowing matchstick as a centrepiece.  Go wild on this layer! Not just in quantity, but with your creativity.

Decorative

INSPIRATION/OTHER THOUGHTS:

  • Look to the books and magazines written by stylist and designer Isle Crawford. She is a genius at making homes 4 dimensional bubbles of happiness and aesthetic pleasure. In particular I like her book Home is Where the Heart is and Elle Decor back issues.
  • Bare bulbs are naff. Your bedroom is not a post-modernist Berlin cafe. If you must use something like this, multiply it – have 20 or 100 bare bulbs instead.
  • Browse the Apartment Therapy archives. They have a billion articles and photographic features on beautiful rooms. If you’re inclined to do-it-yourself, check out this tutorial on how to rewire a lamp – perhaps make your own version of this gorgeous tea party affair!

Teapot lampshade

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Photos sourced from we heart it.

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