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FILA x Changing Lives FC: 2022 World Cup Collection

To celebrate the 2022 World Cup FILA has partnered with Changing Lives FC. The first football team to be made up of Refugees and Migrants in the UK. FILA joined Changing Lives FC at one of their Saturday morning training sessions led by Club Manager, David Simmons.

Changing Lives is a community programme based in Harlow, Essex, offering different activities and workshops to support young people within the area. Founded by David Simmons, alongside Ben Doyle in 2017, the non- profit organisation aims to encourage young people towards a positive pathway through sport, mentoring and educational workshops working alongside schools and local youth initiatives within the area.

One of the many programmes run by Changing Lives is their football team made up of young refugees and migrants from across the world as well as members of the Harlow community. The team is comprised of over 11 different nationalities, with players coming from some of the most dangerous and war-torn regions. The football club provides these young people with a chance to socialise, have fun and exercise while forming long- lasting bonds through the medium of sport. Going from strength to strength through teamwork and determination, Changing Lives FC now play in the Harlow District League, competing against other teams most weeks playing high-quality football.

The new FILA Campaign aims to shine a light on this valuable community organisation through a series of player portraits, an action-packed video of a team training session, as well as an interview style video featuring Changing Lives Club Manager David Simmons speaking on the importance of community support through football.

Shot by Jasmina Wood, a variety of mediums are used from handy-cameras and super 8s capturing the essence of the team and what the club means to them and the community. David Simmons speaks on the importance and positive impact the club has for these young players.

“I am absolutely delighted to be partnering with FILA on this amazing collection. It’s a real ‘pinch yourself moment’andafantasticachievementforalloftheboys! Thisshinessuchapositivelightonrefugeesand migrants who go through so much. I thank FILA for supporting our team and giving us this amazing opportunity” David Simmons, Club Manager & Co-Founder of Changing Lives.

The campaign sees players wear the new Aaron Graphic Short Sleeved Tee, part of the FILA World Cup Collection. The tee features the iconic FILA logo alongside a flag compilation of competing countries in this year’s World Cup. Players can also be seen wearing the new Lavin Track Jacket with matching Sidney Pants.

Shop the AW22 World Cup Collection at Fila


ABOUT FILA

Over the last half-century, FILA has been there for iconic moments, accompanying extraordinary individuals in pursuit of sport – those who courageously challenge limits and defy expectations through a seamless combination of power and grace. From its humble textile beginnings in Biella, Italy in 1911 to its historic introduction of colour on the tennis court in 1973, the brand has always taken pride in creating designs as bold and breath-taking as its wearers. With a philosophy of innovation and a commitment to performance and sophistication, FILA continues to make a statement with styles that are novel in aesthetic and effective in function.

ABOUT CHANGING LIVES FC

Changing Lives is a non-profit Community Interest Company that increases physical activity in the community & prevents children from involvement in anti-social behaviour and gang activity through sports sessions, community and social development workshops. Their mission is to offer social, sporting and work experiences that will instill confidence and motivation for children and young people, providing them with opportunities and pathways for a positive future.

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How To Become A BALR

An international luxury lifestyle brand known for its high-end fashion, travel products and accessories for men and women. Worn by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Dani Alvez, Neymar Jr, Roberto Firmino, Adriana Lima, Usher to name few, the brand has also collaborated with other global fashion players such as Puma, Rolex and Swarovski.

For SS22, the collection is split into two ranges, Las Vegas and Ibiza Getaway

The Las Vegas range

The new BALR. LAS VEGAS collection invites innovation in both design and print. Clean cut comfortability meets a vibrancy in colour, creating the perfect product of both craft and creativity. This season luck lies with the 7’s and aces abstracted atop transitioning tees, hoodies and bombers; a celebration of all things bright, beautiful and blazing from the Neon Capital of the World.

The Ibiza Getaway

BALR. IBIZA GETAWAY, sees serenity find style in a collection that effortlessly envisions hot days tempering to cool nights. Lighter tones of blue, pink and brown reflect the change in season while BALR.’s classic logomania makes for the perfect printed pattern or hexagonal hardware. See the Spanish sun set in a range of tees, trunks and tracksuits that simply smile with the summer.

Stocked at SelfridgesAccent, and Harvey Nichols to name a few

Accessories starting from £45.

Apparel going up to £800

Visit www.balr.com


About BALR

BALR was founded in 2013 by professional football players and is a luxury lifestyle brand.

BALR is an international luxury lifestyle brand known for its high-end fashion, travel products and accessories for men and women. The Amsterdam-based brand has created a complete range of high-quality items that inspire to live the life of a BALR.

Founded in 2013 by Demy de Zeeuw, Juul Manders and Ralph de Geus, BALR. is the embodiment of a modern lifestyle brand. Aspirational, focused and in-sync with its young and ambitious audience, the company brings the luxurious lifestyle of extraordinary athletes within arm’s reach of everyone who works hard to live the dream.

We all have dreams of becoming a great and successful person. Greatness is not something that happens as a result of a careful selection process. It happens by taking action! You will not only find it in the big achievements of your life; you will find it in every little detail of how you live your life in style. It is about aiming high. Not taking no for an answer. And persevering where others before you have given up.

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Baldape Parlour: A Grooming Brand To Watch!

What a pleasure to be promoting a small business doing amazing things for the planet, whilst helping men in the meantime!

Looking at the above photo – you will have guessed it by now – this is about hair removal / back and body grooming.

What is the brand about

Baldape Parlour offers stylish and affordable kits to men to help them remove their back and body hair without having to visit a professional. It allows them to take control of their bodies in a way that hasn’t been done before.

There is no need for razors, helpers or salon treatments here.

Let’s have a closer look.

The Silverback Kit

The Silverback Kit contains a vegan-friendly formulated Charcoal Hair Removal Cream, that clears hair in as little as three minutes. It also offers a ‘helping hand’ for self-application of the cream with an easily washable and replaceable velvet applicator and additional sponge for use in removing stubborn hair.

Finally, the kit also features a soft and exfoliating elastic tool with microfibres that easily reach all areas to wipe away hair after application of the cream. 

How do hair removal creams work?

Hair removal (depilatory) creams contain certain alkaline chemicals that safely react with the hair on your body. They break down the Keratin (the protein structure of your hair), causing it to weaken and dissolve. This leaves the hair in a jelly-like state which can be easily wiped away. 

And the best part? Baldape’s kits are natural, vegan and sustainable, and ethically derived. The brand even donates 5% of its profits to important causes such as Animal Aid and Rainforest trust. 

One last tip

On average, customers tend to need a re-up on cream every 6-8 weeks to stay consistently smooth.


About the brand

In their own words: “We’re small but we aim to operate ethically and sustainably through minimising our plastic packaging, using truly recyclable materials and natural, eco-friendly ingredients, free from animal testing in all our products.

“We care about people feeling their best but also for the environment and with each and every sale, your contributions will go towards building a sustainable future..”

More details

Visit www.baldapeparlour.com

And please note that alongside the kit, Baldape Parlour also offers skincare solutions for men; something that not too many small brands are doing. 

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Did Somebody Say Gourmet Cookies?

Freshly baked festive goodies that can be whipped up in minutes? Doughlicious is the answer.

They produce yummy ready-to-bake cookie dough that is perfect for when you need to create freshly-made bakes for friends but don’t have time to spend lots of time in the kitchen!

Simply pop them in the oven and they will be ready to tuck into in just 16-18 minutes. 

Vegan, organic, gluten free and high in fibre, these sweet bites are the perfect post workout treat to satisfy those oh so familiar sugar cravings, or to enjoy as a morning pick me up when those cookie cravings hit!


Available in a delicious range of flavours including vegan and organic, indulge in the winter flavours Cranberry Oatmeal, Salted Caramel and Red Velvet, made using the finest gluten-free ingredients. 

Enjoy!

Where to buy them

Doughlicious is available from Waitrose, Wholefoods Market, Planet Organic, Selfridges and www.doughlicious.co.uk, RRP £3.99. 

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New Vegan Protein by MONAT

With the new year comes new resolutions, so that’s always great to be able to test new healthy products.

In their own words “MONAT recognises the natural link between looking good and feeling good. Beneath the external radiance of hair and skin, true and lasting beauty radiates from within, from a foundation of health and wellness. How we nourish our bodies directly affects not only our inner vitality, but our outer beauty”. 

Vegan, healthy ageing wellness, skincare, and haircare brand – has just launched an additional two products to its Wellness range.  The new Vegan Protein powder and Balance pre-biotic supplement are ideal health products for festive and New Year season ahead.

 

NEW MONAT Vegan Protein 

Mix 28g powder (1 scoop) with 230-300 ml of water, plant-based milk, or your favorite beverage for 30 seconds. Enjoy 30 minutes after workouts or anytime you desire a high-quality, high-protein drink.
RRP £77/VIP £65

MONAT Vegan Protein is an excellent way to support the daily protein requirements of an active lifestyle by supporting the maintenance and growth of muscle mass. Vitamin B6 contributes to normal protein and glycogen metabolism while zinc and magnesium contribute to normal protein synthesis. This dynamic formula includes a custom blend of mushrooms that have long been valued in traditional use.

MONAT Vegan Protein has a velvety-smooth, grit-free texture that mixes easily in water or plant milk – no blender required. Its creamy, delicious, natural vanilla flavour will make this an indispensable part of your morning, post-workout routine,
or any time you need a protein boost.

With MONAT Vegan Protein, you’re always just one scoop away from a tasty, plant-based protein boost, any time of day.

Key Features include

. 20 grams of vegan protein per serving Silky-smooth, grit-free texture Delicious natural vanilla flavour
115 kcal per serving
. Plant-based superfood protein blend including pea, pumpkin, sunflower, and rice
. Custom mushroom blend including chaga, cordyceps, and maitake
. High in protein
. 1.5 g total carbohydrate per serving
. Contains no added sugar (not a low-calorie food)
. Keto-friendly (not for weight control)
. Mixes easily
. Ideal for shakes, smoothies, or on its own with plant milk in a shaker bottle
. Free from synthetic flavours and synthetic colours Free from dairy, soy, and gluten
. Space-conscious bag allows for easier storage

Does it taste good?

Yes, it does! It has a creamy texture. It is smooth and the vanilla aroma is discreet. So it is not overwhelming at all. Really smooth to drink (and also not to sweet). I really liked it!

NEW MONAT Balance 

Take one (1) capsule daily with a full glass of water before your first meal.
RRP £65/VIP £55

MONAT Balance is a new prebiotic food supplement containing thoughtfully selected ingredients to aid support of the digestive system, whilst contributing to the normal function of the immune system as well as the maintenance of skin, hair, and nails. MONAT Balance formula contains 12 strains of 5 billion lactic acid active bacteria, the bacteria work in the same way as the lactic acid bacteria in the gut, helping with a healthy bacterial system in the intestines.

Formulated with:

Lactic Acid Active Bacteria | MONAT Balance contains 12 strains of 5 billion CFUs of lactic acid active bacteria.

Inulin and Rice Hull Powder | Beneficial fibres that help to contribute to normal bowel function.

Zinc | Which contributes to normal carbohydrate metabolism, normal protein synthesis, and normal cognitive function. Additionally, zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system, protection of cells from oxidative stress and to the maintenance of normal skin, hair, and nails.

Calcium | Which contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes


About MONAT

MONAT is a vegan and cruelty free brand

Preserving the MONAT signature balance between modern and nature, the collection’s ingredients are backed by science, yet naturally derived. MONAT only uses clinically tested ingredients plus safe colourants and fragrances approved by the European Health Commission.

MONAT® is available to buy from www.monatglobal.com and MONAT® Market Partners nationwide.

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When Fashion Meets Tech, Art & Celebrity

The BALR. x ISHU collection is an exclusive line of premium unisex garments that give the wearer a sense of empowerment through unparalleled protection and privacy, with the ability to block out unwanted flashes and outsmart the spotlight using pattern technology. 

Amsterdam born, luxury lifestyle brand BALR. partners with London-based technology and fashion brand ISHU to deliver a transformative collection, which uses innovative sunlight technology to distract and distort. When taking a photo, the unique fabrics containing thousands of nano-spherical crystals reflect the flashlight back into the camera resulting in images where the wearer is blacked out.

Popular with celebrities such as Beyonce, Jay-Z, Usain Bolt, Jaden Smith Nick Jonas, Priyanka Chopra and Paris Hilton to name a few, this unique collaboration features a tracksuit, tees and a poncho that when photographed only show the item of clothing rather than the person wearing it. Alongside this sits footwear and accessories featuring the iconic ISHU print. 

The collection is available at www.balr.com and  www.maisondefashion.com 


About the brands

BALR.
An international luxury lifestyle brand known for its high-end fashion, travel products and accessories for men and women. Founded in 2013 by Demy de Zeeuw, Juul Manders and Ralph de Geus, BALR. typifies the modern, aspirational lifestyle of an athlete. The brand has also collaborated with other global players such as PUMA, (RED), Samsung, and MINI Cooper and designing a fan jersey for Manchester City Football team. Over and above the apparel BALR. lifestyle brand sells everything from branded Golf Carts to Vespas to Beds all in keeping with the brand ethos of luxury, style and aspiration.

ISHU
Founded by London-based tech fashion entrepreneur Saif Siddiqui, ISHU is best known for blurring the lines between fashion and technology using innovative fabrics to black out unwanted flash pictures and videos, providing protection from digital privacy intrusion. ISHU seeks to use its design and products to raise awareness for energy poverty by donating and providing solar solutions with ISHU products sold.

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Festive Snacking With Munchy Seeds!

There are six flavours to enjoy: Toasted Tamari, Warm Cumin and Fennel, Spicy Peri Peri, Totally Triopical, Super Berry, and Cacao and Apricot,


With today’s snacking world being more functional and health-conscious than ever, seeds remain synonymous with goodness, nutrition and health and just a small handful can provide that nutrition boost that your body needs.

After a Christmas vibe?

If you’re looking for a festive snack that is both tasty and healthy, then pick up a bag of Munchy Seeds Warm Cinnamon this Christmas.


Bursting with good energy and naturally-nutritious ingredients, Munchy Seeds Warm Cinnamon is the perfect snack to refuel on this winter.


A delicious blend of sunflower and pumpkin seeds, with a sweet taste of cinnamon, Warm Cinnamon Munchy Seeds evoke the flavours of winter in each delicious bite. Plus, each pack offers a good source of protein, vitamin E and fibre, as well as iron, zinc and magnesium; meaning you can treat yourself this festive season with none of the guilt and all of the nutritional benefits.


Alongside Warm Cinnamon, Munchy Seeds also produces five other flavours: Sweet Chilli, Mega Omega, Salted Caramel, Honey Roasted and Mild Chilli and they are all made using the most delicious and crunchy roasted seeds, whilst also being coeliac- friendly, dairy free and suitable for vegetarians.

Where to buy some

Munchy Seed mixes are available from Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Ocado and The Co-op in 25g snack packs (RRP 80p), 125g sharing packs (RRP £2.99) and 450g mega packs (RRP £8.75) and also from www.munchyseeds.co.uk

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Wreath Making with Barbour

As the famous Barbour brand has just launched two new fragrances –Barbour Fragrance For Him & For Her – they wanted to celebrate the ingredients in their new Barbour Fragrance.

As a result I was invited to a Wreath-Making.

I have detailed the steps below.

What you need to make a Christmas Wreath

You will need one wreath ring, scissors, (green) twine, florist wire and moss, in addition to hardy and different textured foliage such as eucalyptus, spruce, ivory, evergreen oak and buxus.

The Tools

The Ingredients

Christmas decorations such as fir cones, dried oranges, dried bergamot and cinnamon sticks look great and create a delicious festive aroma. However, to go the extra mile, be bold and try some pepper as it will bring new colours.

The Steps

Take your evergreen foliage and begin to twist it around the metal circle. Wrapping the stem of the leaves around the metal wire, try and keep the end of the leaves facing outwards. Tie in place using the twine or gardening wire, and continue around the circle until you have covered the wire in leaves. You may need to tie each stem in a few different places depending on how long each piece is.

You can now add flowers to inject colour and brighten up the greenery. Keep securing these extra pieces with a single wrap of wire.

Finally, finish your wreath with pepper or dried oranges for a seasonal touch. Try spray painting your pine cones in gold, silver or fake snow to add even more festive spirit to your wreath!

The Result

Et voilà !

If you’ve used fresh foliage, hanging your wreath outside will help it keep for about 4 weeks. If you hang a fresh wreath inside, it will last approximately 2 weeks – although this will vary depending on which type of foliage you’ve used.

About the Fragrance

Discover the Barbour Fragrance For Him & For Her exclusive to the Fragrance Shop.

A nod to Barbour’s Scottish heritage, the Barbour For Him fragrance contains a blend of woody notes of cedar, guaiac wood and vetiver, mixed with amber and musk for depth and warmth and topped with a sharp citrus top enhanced by a spicy heart of cardamom, baies roses and black pepper.
A perfect idea for a Xmas gift!
Visit www.thefragaranceshop.co.uk

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7 Natural Ways to Reduce Men’s Hair Loss

Research suggests that 70% of the male population will lose their hair as they get older, with half set to experience this by the age of 50. 

While hair loss is a natural part of the ageing process, there are many ways that men can reduce losing their hair overtime and retain their self-confidence. What’s more, many of these methods don’t involve taking any medications or undergoing invasive – and often expensive – hair transplants. 

Dr Earim Chaudry, Medical Director at men’s health platform Manual shares some key advice on how to limit hair loss in men using the natural methods outlined below:  

  1. Eat a balanced diet 

Healthy hair starts with a healthy diet. When it comes to preventing hair loss with your diet, make sure you’re consuming foods that are packed with vitamins and minerals. These include: 

  • Foods rich in iron, including green leafy vegetables, eggs, beans, and grains
  • High-protein foods, including lean meats and seafood
  • Food rich in omega-3 acids, such as fish, flax seeds and walnuts 

In addition, it is especially recommended that you stay hydrated throughout the day to maintain healthy hair. 

  1. Regularly wash your hair with mild shampoo 

Regularly washing your hair with shampoos that are free from sulphates, parabens and mineral oils will prevent hair loss. By washing your hair with mild shampoos, you are keeping the scalp clean and lowering the risk of infections that may result in hair breakage or loss. 

  1. Avoid hot showers

While there is no medical evidence that hot showers contribute to hair loss, it is still important to be cautious. This is because taking a really hot shower may have the power to strip the scalp of the essential oils that help to protect it. This can cause dryness, inflammation and could also result in the thinning of your hair. 

  1. Refrain from brushing wet hair 

Your hair is in its weakest state when wet, so it’s best to avoid brushing wet hair if you are aiming to reduce hair loss. There is also a danger of brushing your hair too frequently, as doing this could increase the chances of your hair becoming injured,  encouraging further loss. 

  1. Exercise regularly 

Exercising, especially on a frequent basis, will improve blood flow to the scalp area and this could help prevent forms of hair loss. In addition, exercise will reduce your stress levels, something to keep in mind due to the direct correlation between hair loss and stress

  1. Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption 

As tobacco can potentially damage your hair follicles, ditching the cigarettes will help to reduce your hair loss. Cutting down on  alcohol consumption will also do favours for your hair. Despite the fact that there’s no proven link between alcohol use and hair loss, heavy drinking can in fact lead to nutritional deficiencies or hormonal issues, which in turn can thin out your remaining locks.  

  1. Change how you style your hair 

Hairstyles such as ponytails and braids tend to pull hair or tug hair follicles, which could eventually lead to baldness. As well as this, regularly using tools such as blow dryers and straighteners can cause thermal damage to your hair. Down the line, this will lead to breakage and result in hair loss. With this in mind, it may be time to think about healthier and less damaging ways to style your hair if you prefer a longer style. 

Credits | Tips from manual.co and Image from beauti.tips