Pocket Style

Fashion is always restless in its quest for the new, but when trends become overly futuristic, it takes a nostalgic trip to approved or retro styles. This dynamic isn't limited to just clothes, shoes, and accessories but also influences sneaker trends. During fall and winter, sturdy sneakers with thick, weather-resistant soles reigned supreme.

The Most Desired

This summer season's sneakers are classic, elegant, and comfortable, with thinner, graceful soles, taking over the streets and becoming the most desired models among fashionistas.

The sophistication of these sneakers is reflected in their slim silhouette that wraps around the feet, made from various materials like suede and smooth leather, in dark and vintage colors such as yellow, mustard, navy blue, or green with blue.

Highlights also include models like the Ballet Runner Loewe, white, minimalist, and cool, with soft lines and thin rubber soles, combined with laces that harmonize with the upper colors, offering a perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

This summer season, the spotlight will be on the iconic Adidas Samba, inspired by the classic sneakers of the 70s, and reissues of original models like the 60s Adidas Gazelle, developed by Adolf Adi Dassler for better sports performance, and the Onitsuka Tiger from the Japanese brand specializing in sports sneakers.

How to Combine Sneakers

Models like Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber lead the way, pairing the Adidas Samba with wide-leg jeans, sporty outfits, and leather jackets, staying true to the 70s aesthetic. 

However, these 70s classics also harmoniously adapt to maxi skirts, miniskirts with sporty socks, and dresses.

In fact, they are not only used to crown the most casual and sporty looks but can also be the perfect accessory to add a colorful and special touch to elegant and modern outfits every day, not just streetwear looks.

Thanks to their elegant form, these sneakers fit any occasion and are, therefore, a true wardrobe passport.

Fashionistas showcase endless combination and style possibilities on their social media, making them the protagonists of all looks.

Thus, sneakers have become the most worn footwear during Fashion Week among It girls attending the most glamorous jet-set events.

By jbanaggia 

Image Credit: Pinterest

Image credit: Camille Charriere

Image credit: Pinterest

Image credit: Pinterest 

Image credit: Pinterest

If you're looking for radiance, homogeneity and firmness of the skin, vitamin C is the special ingredient your skincare routine needs. It is one of the most important vitamins with numerous properties.

 Vitamin C and Its Benefits

Known as ascorbic acid on skincare ingredient lists, vitamin C has the ability to protect the skin from environmental aggressions due to its antioxidant properties and its role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for skin firmness. 

Vitamin C has four important functions in skincare:

Protection against free radicals and UV radiation damage due to the presence of antioxidants.

Anti-aging: It aids in the production of type I and III collagen, which are the main types of collagen in the skin, regardless of age.

Eliminates spots, brightens, and illuminates: An indispensable ingredient in treatments useful for reducing skin discoloration, making it more even-toned.

Hydrates and tones the skin: When you notice your skin looking tired, dull, and discolored, a great help can come from this vitamin.

Vitamin C in Your Skincare Routine

Vitamin C can be used in the morning and at night. It is advisable to include it in your morning routine as it helps to instantly brighten the skin. 

If used as a single ingredient (as in some boosters, for example), it is best applied after cleansing and exfoliation, and before moisturizer and sunscreen, to create a stronger shield against UV rays.

Vitamin C is highly unstable and tends to oxidize quickly, so in formulations, it is often accompanied by vitamin E or other ingredients like green tea that help in its anti-aging action. 

Some products use magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a derivative of ascorbic acid, which offers greater and better stability.

To fully enjoy all the properties of vitamin C, it is inserted in its pure form inside pressure capsules that preserve its integrity.

Contraindications

Normally, there are no contraindications. You can use products with vitamin C mixed with other illuminating or hydrating active ingredients. 

However, those with sensitive and reactive skin should be cautious when using many products or a high concentration of active ingredients, as the skin may react poorly and present redness and other problems.

Another important factor for safety is to always remember to use high SPF sunscreen in case of sun exposure.

The Difference Between Pure Vitamin C and Stabilized Vitamin C

Pure vitamin C, being an acid, oxidizes more easily in formulations containing water, reducing the product's efficacy. Stabilized vitamin C, a derivative form, does not contain acid, is more stable, and can be applied to sensitive skin with better effectiveness.

Pure vitamin C is recommended for those with normal, oily, or acne-prone skin as they are more resistant to ascorbic acid. For those with sensitive skin or rosacea, stabilized vitamin C is ideal. 

It is also recommended for men who shave frequently, after exfoliation and peels, as the skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation during these times.

 Vitamin C Serum

A good skincare routine should include the use of a quality facial serum with vitamin C. Thanks to its antioxidant action, it is an excellent product that works on multiple levels to make the skin radiant, revitalized, and even-toned, enhancing the effect of the cream.

If the goal is to effectively combat not only skin aging by stimulating natural collagen production but also hyperpigmentation and skin imperfections, the serum becomes a true ally. The result will be brighter, firmer, and more even-toned skin. 

Be careful to choose a serum with stabilized vitamin C, as it is photosensitive and degrades easily.

Besides serums and boosters, there are many treatments with various types of vitamin C, and their effects can vary according to your skin type and needs.

By jbanaggia

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese discipline used to harmonize the environment and the flow of energy in our lives. For centuries, Feng Shui has been used to improve various aspects of life, such as health, well-being, prosperity, and our emotional side.

One of the most important objectives of Feng Shui is related to sleep, helping to promote a peaceful and restorative sleep, which is essential for overall health and well-being.

However, when putting this ancient discipline into practice, it is necessary to pay attention to avoid some mistakes that can interfere with sleep quality. There are some tips to help achieve a good night's sleep.

One mistake to avoid is the bed's position. Since it has great importance for sleep quality, an incorrect position can have a significant impact on overall health.

 In Feng Shui, the most unfavorable position is when the bed is placed directly in front of the door, exposing the person to an excessive flow of energy that enters and exits from one room to another, causing restlessness and difficulty in falling asleep.

Sleeping directly in front of the door can create a sense of insecurity, compromising the tranquility needed for a good night's sleep. Constant interruptions due to the energy flow result in poor sleep.

Another common mistake is placing the bed under a beam, which brings stress and anxiety, making relaxation difficult. According to Feng Shui, beams create a visual and energetic pressure over specific areas of the body, contributing to health problems related to those parts.

Avoid a bed without a solid headboard or against a window. The absence of a solid headboard can create a feeling of lack of support and security, affecting sleep quality. Placing the bed against a window can expose the sleeper to drafts and unstable energy, thus interfering with rest.

Consequences of Incorrect Bed Position

An incorrect bed position not only affects sleep but can also have long-term consequences on physical and mental health.

Physical Health:

-Constant exposure to energy flow can cause difficulty in sleeping, leading to insomnia.

-Lack of restorative sleep can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

-Poor sleep can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illnesses.

Mental Health:

Absence of quality sleep can cause anxiety, depression, decreased cognitive functions, memory loss, difficulty in concentration, and decision-making.

Similarly, lack of adequate rest can increase irritability and stress levels, affecting personal and professional relationships.

When practicing Feng Shui, it is essential to follow some recommendations to optimize the energy flow in the bedroom, improving sleep quality.

Optimal positioning of the bed

One of the most important bed positions in Feng Shui is the commanding position. Placing the bed in this way means you can see the door without being directly aligned with it, allowing you to feel confident and in control during your rest.

The commanding position brings many benefits, including a greater sense of control and security. Energy flows more harmoniously, creating a more favorable environment for rest.

Do not forget that the headboard should be against a solid wall. This way, you will feel a sense of support and stability.

A solid headboard provides physical and emotional support, reducing energy instability and preventing it from flowing irregularly around the head.

Avoid Distractions and Stimuli

Eliminate electronic devices like TVs, computers, and cell phones, which emit electromagnetic energy that interferes with sleep. Create a calm and more tranquil environment.

Use soft and warm lighting in the bedroom, avoiding bright lights. Opt for low-consumption lamps that encourage relaxation, preparing the body for sleep. Warm light reduces stress and promotes a sense of calm.

In the decoration, introduce plants, stones, or water elements. These natural elements can improve air quality, enhance breathing, and promote a sense of well-being and tranquility.

Use Relaxing Colors

Choose soft and relaxing colors like shades of blue, green, and lavender. Soft colors bring visual relaxation, calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.

 By making the necessary changes and paying attention to details, it is possible to ensure improved health and quality of life.

Applying Feng Shui in the bedroom, especially in the bed's position, is important for ensuring restorative sleep, bringing health benefits.

By jbanaggia 

With the diversity of products whose functions are not always clear and the increasingly elaborate skincare routines, it is understandable to have many questions.

We often don't know which product to apply first and which ingredients should not be combined. Do we start with the serum or facial oil?

Should we use the mask or the eye cream first? What is the correct sequence for a skincare routine, and should it be done in the morning or at night?

Some tips on the order of application to create a simple and effective routine can help achieve healthy and radiant skin.

Step-by-Step Skincare Routine

Makeup Remover as the First Product

The first step in a skincare routine is to remove any makeup, which can be done with a makeup remover or micellar water.

In the morning, we might skip this step, but for double cleansing fans, use a cleansing oil for a deeper clean.

Despite being an oil, it removes skin oiliness without disrupting the skin's natural balance and pH, keeping the skin beautiful and balanced.

Cleansing Soap for Morning and Night Use

Once makeup is removed, it is necessary to continue caring for the skin by cleaning it thoroughly to eliminate all impurities. 

Prefer a liquid soap or gentle cleansing gel to avoid damaging the skin. The current trend includes practical, ecological, and anti-waste soaps.

 For more effective cleansing, combine the soap with a facial cleansing brush, either electric or manual, to visibly improve the appearance of your skin.

Step Three: Exfoliant

We have some options: physical, chemical, or enzymatic exfoliants to be used three times a week. 

If you choose an AHA-based exfoliant (like glycolic acid), use it only at night and be mindful of the active ingredients you will combine later.

The Toner

Toner is used to rebalance the skin and restore the correct pH level. Choose according to your skin type: astringent and purifying or calming and hydrating. 

The current trend focuses on achieving a glowing effect.

Night Skincare Routines: AHA and BHA Acids

Treatments with acids should be used on clean, dry skin. You can choose those based on AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHA (beta hydroxy acids), like salicylic acid. They remove dead cells, refine skin texture, minimize discoloration, and reduce fine lines. 

It is best to apply them at night as they can be photosensitizing.

Remember to always use sunscreen the following morning. Apply them one to three times a week, gradually allowing the skin to adapt.

To avoid possible irritation, do not combine different types of acids or other active ingredients like Retinol simultaneously.

Always consult your dermatologist before starting treatment.

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C

Vitamin C has strong antioxidant action, brightens, and improves skin texture. 

It can be used lightly in the morning and at night, but it is preferable not to combine it with Retinol and Retinoids simultaneously to minimize the risk of irritation.

Active Ingredients: Retinol and Retinoids (Vitamin A)

Retinol and Retinoids are very effective in combating skin aging and aiding regeneration. They have brightening properties, especially in treating spots and discolorations. 

However, it is crucial to use them with caution and always after consulting a dermatologist, as they can cause irritation and light sensitivity. 

Use them only at night and not in combination with other active ingredients. 

Always use a high-factor sunscreen in the morning.

Essence

A product highly favored by Eastern women and now an essential skincare product in the West, to be used morning or night. It resembles a toner in its watery texture but is more concentrated with nutrients like a booster. 

It contains hydrating and anti-aging agents like hyaluronic acid, enzymes, or probiotics, which help restore skin comfort and enhance the effect of the serum and moisturizer applied later.

Serum

Facial serum is an essential product in your skincare routine, with a lightweight texture and quick absorption, crucial for deeply nourishing the skin and protecting it from oxidative stress. It can have antioxidant and anti-aging effects, with hyaluronic acid as a key ingredient. 

Use it daily, morning and night. Note: Serum penetrates deeply into the skin for a decisive effect but is not a substitute for moisturizer. Always use your favorite serum.

Eye Contour

Never forget to care for the very thin and delicate skin around the eyes, which ages faster than the rest of the face. If you have very dry skin in this area, choose creams with a rich texture and apply by tapping gently with the ring finger, morning and night. 

Current formulas smooth, brighten, and decongest the area.

Face Mask

Applied after cleansing, exfoliating, rebalancing, and treating the skin, a face mask provides an extra nutrient boost. At night, it is the last step in the beauty routine, used once or twice a week. 

If you have very dry skin, it can be followed by a facial oil for an even more regenerative action. 

Besides the classic creamy masks, there are also fabric or cellulose fiber masks. Nowadays, there are barrier-effect masks that can be applied daily after moisturizer, even before makeup.

Facial Oil

Facial oil is an optional skincare product, particularly nourishing and regenerating for skin needing extra care. 

Use it only at night or mix a few drops into your facial cream if your skin is particularly dry, especially in winter. Opt for a single natural, cold-pressed oil, like rosehip oil with antioxidant action, or a blend of fine oils for multiple benefits. 

Facial oil is a star product in the skincare routine and can also be used on oily skin, as all skin types need nutrition. 

To maximize its benefits, use it at the end of the night skincare routine to “seal” all active ingredients. There are also lightweight formulas available, perfect for use as a serum or makeup base.

Day Moisturizer

Using a moisturizer keeps the skin hydrated all day, protecting it from external aggressions like wind and pollution. Choose it according to your skin type and needs, from light gel textures to richer, more nourishing ones.

Whether it’s lifting, rebalancing, matting, or illuminating effects, the important thing is to remember to apply it every morning with upward, sinuous motions. 

For superior application, some skin experts suggest combining the cream with a next-generation beauty tool—our face will thank you!

Sunscreen

Sunscreen has become an essential step to protect the skin from sun damage. Modern formulations are lightweight and pleasant to apply, without the risk of creating an unpleasant "white mask" on the face. 

Wait until the skin has absorbed all previous products before applying it. Once absorbed, you can proceed with makeup application.

Night Cream

The night cream, the last step in the skincare routine, usually has a rich and comfortable texture infused with active, regenerative nutrients that work during the rest hours, assisting the skin's natural regeneration cycle. 

The night cream is light and free of SPF, of course, and its texture can be “sealed” with facial oil for added nourishment.

How Long to Wait Between Applications

The waiting time between applying one product and another depends on individual preference and the cosmetic used. 

Manufacturers typically provide guidelines for their products, such as application mode and waiting time for better skin absorption. 

Some people wait 15 seconds between applications to allow the product to absorb well, while others prefer to apply while the skin is still damp for a more pleasant texture.

The effectiveness of all products we apply depends on the order we follow to not affect their penetration capacity. 

Application should always follow the density of the products: applying a very dense product can create a barrier that prevents lighter products from penetrating. 

If you only use basic daily products like moisturizer, serum, and sunscreen, the correct order is: 

-Serum

-Moisturizer

-Sunscreen

It may seem complicated at first, but following a skincare routine will result in healthier, hydrated, and radiant skin.

By jbanaggia 

A great classic in perfumery, vanilla is among the most versatile ingredients in fragrances. It is perfect for those seeking softness.

The aroma of vanilla is warm, enveloping, gourmand, and exquisite. It is one of those olfactory notes that can reach the heart and make you fall madly in love.

It is sweet without being too cloying, suitable for the winter season because it creates that warm-cold contrast for the period, and its curiosities are enchanting.

As someone aptly said, "Vanilla enchants the senses and satisfies the soul," being considered a powerful aphrodisiac in the 18th century.

Obtained from the pod from which the essential oil for perfumery is extracted, there are various qualities, with the most valued being Bourbon and Tahitian.

Bourbon, primarily from Madagascar, is widely recognized as the best in the world, while Tahitian offers a more delicate aroma with similar nuances to plum. 

Famous Vanilla Perfumes

For enthusiasts of this genre, truly exceptional creations are those that incorporate vanilla at all stages of the olfactory pyramid, among the top, heart, and base notes, combining different qualities for an intense olfactory experience.

The Great Classics:

Sublime Vanille by Oliver Creed

A tribute from the brand to vanilla, the raw material comes from the Comoros Islands.

Top Notes: Bourbon Vanilla and Vanilla Orchid

Heart Note: Tonka Bean

Base Notes: Lemon, Bergamot, and Musk

Terra Mia by Carthusia by Luca Maffei

A gourmand to celebrate the Neapolitan soul.

Top Notes: Neroli, Pink Pepper, and Bergamot

Heart Notes: Coffee, Rose, Hazelnut, Orange Blossom, and Jasmine

Base Notes: Vanilla, Amber Wood, Ambroxan, and Musk

Vanhera by Laboratorio Olfattivo

Signed by Luca Maffei.

Top Notes: Vanilla, Szechuan Pepper, Cardamom, Pink Pepper, and Bergamot

Heart Notes: Cashmere Wood, Sandalwood, and Cinnamon

Base Notes: Vanilla, Dark Woody Notes, Amber, Ambrocenide, and Musk

Vanilla Flash by Tauerville

A composition by Andy Tauer incorporating his favorite notes: Bourbon Vanilla, Rose, Patchouli, and Tobacco.

Vanille West Indies by Ligne St Barth

Signed by Andy Tauer, an homage to the Caribbean version of this spice, a perfume that allows you to breathe the atmosphere and evokes the warmth of the Caribbean sunset.

Notes: Vanilla, Creamy Caramel, and Exotic Orchids.

Vanilla Perfumes with Gourmand Notes

While some choose an olfactory overdose of vanilla, others may prefer fragrances with richer and more complex compositions, using exotic ingredients like Ylang-Ylang, Tiaré, or Jasmine.

Examples of Fragrances:

Angel by Thierry Mugler

Decidedly gourmand, vanilla is enhanced by pralines, caramel, and red fruits. This perfume, awarded the FiFi Award Hall Of Fame 2007, is considered the pioneer of the gourmand genre.

Top Notes: Cotton Candy, Coconut, Cassis, Melon, Jasmine, Bergamot, Pineapple, and Mandarin

Heart Notes: Honey, Red Berries, Blackberry, Plum, Apricot, Peach, Jasmine, Nutmeg, Orchid, Caraway, Rose, and Lily-of-the-Valley

Base Notes: Patchouli, Chocolate, Caramel, Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Amber, Musk, and Sandalwood

Seventh Avenue by And Other Stories

Exotic ingredients for the new fragrance from the Swedish brand such as Vanilla, Papyrus, Black Currant, and Midnight Violet.

Vaniglia e Zenzero by L’Erbolario

A winning combination, sweetness on one side and sensuality on the other.

Top Notes: Ginger and Lemon

Heart Notes: Vetiver and Patchouli

Base Notes: Vanilla and Siam Benzoin

Segnorina Misteriosa by Salvatore Ferragamo

A black, elegant limited edition version for a new interpretation with Vanilla.

Top Notes: Blackberry and Neroli

Heart Notes: Tuberose and Orange Blossom

Base Notes: Milk Mousse, Black Vanilla Pod, and Patchouli

Spiritueuse Double Vanille by Guerlain

A vanilla reminiscent of oceanic voyages from past centuries, including Incense, Rose, Ylang-Ylang, and Pink Pepper.

Top Notes: Pink Pepper, Bergamot, and Incense

Heart Notes: Ylang-Ylang, Cedar, Bulgarian Rose, and Jasmine

Base Notes: Benzoin and Vanilla

Vanilla & Cedarwood by Kiehl’s

A perfume representing Yin and Yang, on one side the femininity of Ugandan Vanilla, on the other side the masculinity of Cedarwood.

Extra Tips: How to Use Them

Perfumes with vanilla notes can be used both in summer and winter, but are generally more appreciated in the cold. 

They can be worn during the day or at night; however, it is recommended to use them in moderation.

By jbanaggia

Biotin is a B-group vitamin, an essential micronutrient that acts as a coenzyme in important metabolic processes. Biotin is a true beauty vitamin; it thickens the hair, increases elasticity, prevents dryness, and combats hair breakage. It produces keratin, a primary component of healthy hair.

It helps in transporting oxygen to follicular cells, making them healthy and vital. This is one of the reasons why biotin has been shown to be useful in preventing hair fragility and dullness.

It is very beneficial for the beauty of the skin, nails, and for a healthy metabolism and energy production.

Since it is a water-soluble substance and cannot be stored by our body in sufficient quantities, it is advisable to daily provide a diet rich in a variety of fresh foods that are naturally rich in biotin.

Biotin-rich foods, also known as B7, work from the inside out, helping our hair regain its natural volume, shine, vigor, strengthen, revitalize the scalp, and support growth.

Foods that Promote Hair Growth and Health:

Eggs:

Rich in nutrients like biotin, egg yolks are an excellent source of this vitamin. The yolk contains about 10 micrograms, a third of the recommended daily intake, which is 30 to 100 mcg. Make sure to cook eggs well to avoid the interference of avidin, a protein in the white that can hinder biotin absorption.

Salmon:

Rich in good Omega-3 fats, salmon is a healthy food par excellence, containing a significant amount of biotin, making it ideal for skin and hair health. It can be smoked, baked, grilled, or even raw (sushi, sashimi, carpaccio). Prefer fresh salmon.

Liver:

If you consume meat, it is very likely you have biotin in abundance. Poultry and red meats are excellent sources. The richest in biotin, however, is liver: 75 grams of beef liver provide 31 mcg of vitamin B7. Chicken livers are also excellent sources and can be rediscovered as a risotto ingredient, for example.

Soybeans:

Legumes, rich in protein and fiber, are sources of biotin. Be sure to include lentils, beans, chickpeas, fava beans, and peas in your menu. Soybeans are among the richest—try them in the form of tofu, miso paste (great for seasoning rice, barley, or soups). Miso can also be used to enrich vegetable, fish, and meat dishes.

Sunflower Seeds:

The star of this category, sunflower seeds are very rich in biotin, containing 2.6 mcg per 20 grams, excellent for promoting hair health. Almonds, nuts, and seeds as snacks can become a very healthy habit. Chewed or sprinkled on salads, they are a fantastic source of minerals, good fats, and vitamins, including vitamin B7.

Mushrooms:

Mushrooms like funghi are low in calories and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Their biotin content is relevant (70 grams contain 5.6 mcg), helping in the mission for “healthy hair.” They can be added to a variety of dishes, such as salads, classic risotto, soups, grilled or baked dishes.

Sweet Potatoes:

Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and a variety of minerals. These nutrients are among the richest in biotin plants. Excellent for hair and skin, they can be consumed mashed, baked with a pinch of rosemary, or fried, which is healthier than classic potatoes.

Avocado:

Avocado is an authentic beauty food, rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, nourishing the skin and hair. Adopt the trendy avocado toast for breakfast, or dip carrot or celery sticks in guacamole.

Spinach:

Spinach is the leafy green vegetable par excellence, rich in nutrients like vitamins A and C and antioxidants like lutein. They also contain a good amount of biotin. It can be consumed in salads to reap its anti-aging benefits.

Broccoli:

Broccoli is a health elixir that should be consumed regularly. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties and contains biotin beneficial for hair and skin health. When consumed with salmon, it provides a concentrated dose for hair health.

Tuna:

Tuna is a source of amino acids and healthy fats, providing a good amount of biotin. It can be added to salads, pasta, and sandwiches. To extract the maximum biotin, it is better to consume it fresh, but canned tuna is acceptable if it is of good quality and preserved in extra virgin olive oil.

By jbanaggia

There are several solutions to prevent hair frizz, and often simple habits can bring unexpected effects. Taking care of the scalp is one of them and has been growing significantly, as well as using hair serum, which is used to make our locks more beautiful and healthy. 

However, it’s not just about using a specific product for dry hair; performing some fundamental daily gestures can also prevent damage to the lengths and, indeed, frizz. 

Frizz can be a sign of damage to the hair fiber, and to make it healthy, it is necessary to ensure that the cuticle closes and protects both the hair fiber and the keratin from degradation caused by external factors. Without a well-structured cuticle, the hair becomes dull.

Simple habits can help solve

Clean Only the Scalp

One of the most important daily practices to avoid frizz is to wash only the scalp and not the hair; scrubbing the hair damages the cuticle.

Always Use Conditioner

Always use conditioner, as it makes it easier to detangle the hair and minimizes static electricity, preventing the cuticle that protects the hair from lifting and water from entering the fiber, thus avoiding frizz.

Use the Hair Dryer Correctly

Dry your hair without rubbing it with a towel and use the hair dryer correctly at a medium temperature and at least 15 centimeters away from your hair, always directing the hot air jet towards the ends.

Protect Your Hair from Wind, Rain, and Sun

It's important to tie up your hair on windy or unstable weather days. Use a scarf, a hat, or some accessory to avoid friction, which ends up damaging the cuticle and leaving the length unprotected against external aggression. 

Regarding sun protection, which may seem like an excessive form of hair care, it is crucial and deserves special attention.

The 18-MEA (18-methyl eicosanoic acid), which is the first barrier against external aggression, decreases by more than 90% due to solar radiation during the summer. Therefore, we should always use a hair sunscreen.

Brush Hair to Avoid Tangles and Knots

It’s important to always keep the hair detangled to avoid damaging the hair fiber; brushing it after coming home is important because the length tends to float in the air and rub against clothes. 

If the hair is not tangled, it is not necessary to brush it before sleeping, but if an oil-based serum with zero water content is applied, it’s necessary to brush or comb it to distribute the product evenly. 

It’s important to choose a high-quality hairbrush, remembering that not all brushes are the same.

Stay Away from Flat Irons

Avoid daily use of flat irons to make hair shinier and frizz-free. The more you use the flat iron, the more you damage the hair, even when using a heat protector, which can only prevent 50% of the damage. 

Frequent use of flat irons can weaken and break the disulfide bonds of keratin, which give greater strength to the hair. This damage is quite noticeable and quick in fine hair.

Never Sleep with Wet Hair

Never sleep with wet hair, as it is more fragile and this way you avoid possible breakage. Use a serum before going to bed and use silk pillowcases to avoid possible friction.

By jbanaggia

It's no surprise that classic ballet flats have been around for almost 70 years. The style was created by actress and pioneer of French style Brigitte Bardot, who requested a pair of lightweight and flexible shoes resembling real ballet slippers from designer Rose Repetto in 1956.

Today, the style remains as enduring as ever. They offer a sense of ease and comfort that other fashionable shoes may not be able to provide.

In recent seasons, they have reappeared on the runway and on our feet.Comfortable, versatile, and chic, ballet flats are experiencing a new moment of glory, although they never completely disappeared.

On the other hand, we're not talking about just any shoe, but a great fashion classic, timeless and indispensable.

More practical than Slingbacks and more feminine than Louboutin Decollete sneakers, ballet flats now have a place in our fashionista hearts more than ever.

Thanks to many variations, they are the protagonists. Firstly, those in satin, then the mesh ones, which are perfect for summer and have become a viral hit on social media.

The most searched on the internet

If your social media algorithm is in sync with mine, you may have seen these mesh flats all over your feed recently. (toes are out this summer).

An analysis revealed that Google searches for these shoes have skyrocketed, registering a three to six times increase in demand over the past two months compared to the same period in 2022.

 Also, according to the global search platform, at the top of the wish list are black ballet flats and models with rhinestones.

However, the first place on the podium is an unexpected novelty: the so-called Mary Jane Ballet Flats, which have appeared on the feet of the most influential it girls.

Seen in the front row of fashion shows during New York, London, Paris, and Milan fashion weeks, photographed on the most prestigious red carpets, the low-cut shoes with a strap across the instep are undoubtedly the most coveted and desired at the moment.

The Best Part

From elegant to casual, we can make flat shoes match any outfit for any occasion, especially because there are so many amazing options these days. From a stylish dress to skinny jeans.

I think brands have finally realized that people want to be comfortable without sacrificing their style.

Although considered a classic by many, this shoe style goes through its own trend iterations, just like every piece of clothing. 

Brands like Miu Miu and Alaïa have released their own takes on the style, the former sticking to ballet satin and the latter going in a more assertive direction with cutouts and embellishments.

No matter the price or brand, all are elegant enough to wear for the coming years. Whether you are interested in trendy pairs or prefer to stick with classics, there is a pair of flats for everyone.

Image credit: Pinterest

Image credit: Pinterest