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Rumpl: A World With Better Blankets

Always excited to discover a new brand and get to know how it all started.

The Story Behind Rumpl

On a surf and ski trip through California, their founders were sleeping in a van, several miles up a dirt road near a secret hot spring. They awoke the next morning in subzero temperatures with a car that wouldn’t start. Far outside of cell reception, and confronted with an impossibly long walk into town, they decided to bundle up in their sleeping bags and drink whiskey while they waited for someone else to show up.

Minutes turned to hours, and in that time the conversation took an unexpected turn to the subject of bedding. Cozy and warm in their sleeping bags, the two acknowledged how much better the materials felt and performed than what was on their beds back home. A resolve was made to create a “sleeping bag blanket” and the idea for the first Rumpl product was born.

Returning from the trip and borrowing a sewing machine, the first Rumpl “Puffy” blankets were hand sewn in a cramped San Francisco apartment. After several months using the blankets, the two realized they had stumbled on to an idea much grander than just a sleeping bag blanket. The materials typically found in everyday blankets hadn’t evolved in hundreds of years—the entire category wasn’t utilizing any of the material innovation that was taking place in apparel, outdoor gear, and activewear. The Rumpl brand was born

Weatherproof, durable, and cozy blankets made with the same technical materials used in premium outdoor gear and activewear.

After turning to Kickstarter, getting funded in less than 24 hours, and ultimately hitting more than 10x the original campaign goal, they realized that others wanted more from an everyday blanket. Since that initial Kickstarter success, Rumpl has grown from a single home made ‘sleeping bag blanket’ to a whole line of blankets and technical comfort products that redefine the category.

3 Puffy Blankets To Choose From

Watch their founder and CEO, Wylie, explain more in the above video.

Also, Rumple has just announced a distribution agreement with Unify Brand Partnerships, a distributor in the United Kingdom known for representing pivotal brands within the lifestyle, sport and outdoor categories.

Their Value

Rumpl believes the blanket you use every day deserves the same attention to detail as a sleeping bag you might use ten times a year. In 2019, the brand completely redesigned their core line of blankets to only use 100% post-consumer recycled materials. They’re now recycling over 5 million discarded plastic bottles through their supply chain every year. 

They’re also donating 1% of all revenue to environmental non-profits, as well as being members of the freshman cohort of brands that are certified as climate neutral.


About Rumpl

In their own words: “One of our brand’s core values is to “Look To The Future Responsibly,” and consider that value in every business decision we make. In 2019, we completely redesigned our core line of blankets to use only 100% post-consumer recycled materials. We’re now recycling over 5 million discarded plastic bottles through our supply chain every year. We’re also proud to be a member of 1% For The Planet, which means we donate 1% of all revenue to environmental non-profits. And finally, we’re members of the freshman cohort of brands that are certified Climate Neutral. This means that beginning in 2020, and every year thereafter, we’ll be offsetting 100% of our company’s carbon footprint by purchasing offset credits.”

Visit www.rumpl.com

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Sunglasses For The Heat Wave

Avalan Orange Sunglasses by Layoners | T-Shirt by boohooMAN

Is it too late to buy some sunglasses in September? Definitely not!

I was lucky to try out some of the Layoners sunglasses and I was not disappointed. They are really an amazing value for money as the prices are below £50. Also, they are very comfy to wear as their frame is really light.

Lightweight frames with flexible handles and polarised lenses

All of this is included when you buy a pair!

What else?

There is a large collection to choose from.

Browse sunglasses for men


About Layoners

In their own words: ‘Straight from the runways of Milano to the streets of New York. Layoners brings the perfect mix of refined haute couture and hottest street style trends. Thick oversized frames, retro shapes and futuristic silhouettes have dominated this season, and we’re glad to feature them in our collections’.

Shop sunglasses on www.layoners.com

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My Trip to Barbados

Shirt by Luke | Sunglasses by ASOS

I love a beach vacation, especially in the middle of the winter, and I couldn’t have asked for a better escape than going to Barbados.

In numbers, Barbados is an island country in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies. It is 34 kilometres (21 miles) in length and up to 23 km (14 miles) in width, covering an area of 432 km2 (167 squares miles). Its population is of almost 300,000 people.

My favorite spots.

Oistin Fish Market

During the daytime it might look quiet, however wait for a Friday night to eat some freshly caught fish cooked to perfection. Try some lobsters, shrimp, red snapper which are prepared on the grill and served with local favorites such as rice and peas, coleslaw, and salads.

My best evening in Barbados!

Pebbles Beach, the most popular spot according to TripAdvisor

Located in Carlisle Bay. This one seemed overrated to me. The minuses: looking to the left and you’ll see the not so pretty and massive Hilton hotel; look to the right and you’ll see the cruise ships transiting. At some point during the day the beach will be overcrowded by (cruise ship) tourists popping by for a few hours.

The pluses: the easy place to go snorkelling and watch the turtles. Magical!

Miami Beach, my (beach) hot spot!

This quickly became my preferred beach: beautiful sea & sand, good waves to both swim and bodysurf. Relaxed and not too busy (as the access isn’t obvious from the main street). Nice trees in the background – in case you’d need some shade. This beach has it all.

Sandals by Teva | Swim shorts by Luke Sport

Dover Beach, a popular spot

One can only enjoy the vibrant colours.

Saint Lucy, all the way up to the North

Here you’ll find a beautifully rugged coastline dotted with bays. The powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean pound the cliffs creating sea caves and blowholes. This is not an area for swimming but it makes up for this with majestic views and small pools for sea-bathing.

Shirt by Luke | Sunglasses by Lyle&Scott

Bridgetown, the Capital City

Both Barbados’ capital and largest city, it’s a vibrant, vivacious place steeped in history, where its unique blend of African, American and British heritage comes alive. Bridgetown and its Garrison is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with buildings dating back to the 17th, 18th, and 19th Century.

Bathsheba, the surfers’ paradise!

Useful websites: visitbarbados.org or barbados.org

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Tesei Watch by Spinnaker

Japan Automatic 3 Hands Movement with Date

Really glad at StylePilot to have received the Tesei SP-5084-11 from Spinnaker to review.

ABOUT THE COLLECTION

Updated and improved upon, the Tesei Titanium is now available as a bracelet. A host of subtle but important upgrades make this timepiece a true tribute to the spirit and ingenuity of Italian Naval legend Teseo Tesei.

What’s inside?

DIAL

True to its militaristic inspiration, the dial is designed to be efficient and effective at offering a clear cut read out of time. The hands in particular have been redesigned and upgraded with layerings of X-1 Swiss Super-LumiNova.

MATERIAL : Titanium
DIAMETER (mm) : 43
THICKNESS (mm) : 13
SHAPE : Round
COLOUR : Titanium
BEZEL : Unidirectional Bezel with Ceramic Plate


DESIGN

The Tesei case is forged out of the tensile strength but low density of Titanium. Hardened with Nitrogen and topped with a Ceramic inlaid bezel with luminous markings, every element of the design and fabrication has been carefully considered. A scratch resistant sapphire lens with anti-reflective coating makes this an effortless, durable and robust timepiece to wear for all conditions.

TYPE : Titanium Bracelet
COLOUR : Titanium
BUCKLE : Fold Over Buckle with Safety Lock and Push Button
WIDTH (mm) : 22

Powering and assuring an ever reliable performance from the Tesei, an NH35 Seiko Automatic lies at the heart of the watch.

By taking advantage of the incredible properties of Titanium, the upgraded Tesei is now a bracelet timepiece which offers a lightweight feel but with the neccessary strength to resist the conditions of a rugged wear at sea or on land.

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS

WATER RESISTANCE : 20 ATM / WARRANTY : 2 Years International


£495 RRP. Shop at www.spinnaker-watches.co.uk. Browse all Spinnaker watches.

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Hand-Cooked Crisps for a Festive Snack

Whether you’re planning a party or just want to snuggle up and watch your favourite festive film, here are a couple of suggestions for some hand-cooked crisps.

Looking for yummy hand-cooked crisps in the tastiest flavours? Fairfields Farm offer a fantastic range to suit every taste including Sweet Chilli, Bacon & Tomato and Sea Salt & Aspall Cider Vinegar to name a few. For the ultimate Christmas snack, reach for Fairfields Farm Kelly Bronze Turkey, Sage and Onion Crisps that combine the festive flavours of hand-reared bronze turkey with the punchy taste of sage and onion.

If you are following a healthy eating plan and want to stay on track over the festive period, Lentil Bites are the ideal guilt-free snack. They’re just under 99 calories per bag and available in two flavours: Tomato & Herb and Jalapeño & Lime. Available from independent retailers nationwide.

‘Beery flavoured crisps’: original and great!

For those who fancy a more quirky snack, pop Ten Acre hand-cooked crisps and popcorn in your basket on your weekly shop. Available in a range of tempting flavours, these vegan-friendly, moreish snacks are available from independent retailers nationwide.

Don’t they look yummy? ;- )

If you are still craving for some more, then try those (pictured below):

Fresh tomato and herb Lentil Bites bring your senses alive, make you want to party – brings a new meaning to pizza time! Or Hot chilli and fresh lime – the perfect combo for making your taste buds want to do the tango – you’ll be snapping your fingers and clicking your toes with every crunch!

Where can I buy some?

Shop online on www.fairfieldscrisps.co.uk or find them at Asda and Holland & Barrett

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5 Sunglasses for Father’s Day

Shopping for the perfect father’s day gift isn’t always easy.

Luckily, SmartBuyGlasses has you covered with this unique eyewear gift guide. Discover the top specs they think Dad will love, based on what their customers have virtually tried on!


SmartBuyGlasses’ virtual try-on​ (VTO) technology allows you to try on glasses online without ever having to leave your home. Want to make sure it’s the right match for your dad? Just have him use their virtual try-on tool to try before you buy!

Our top 5 below:

Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses

Model displayed RB3025 Aviator Polarized 001/58
Shop here.


These Ray-Ban sunglasses are a forever classic. If you want to get your dad a father’s day gift that he’s guaranteed to love, then you can’t go wrong with Ray-Ban Aviators! This look was a favorite for SmartBuyGlasses’ Ray-Ban virtual try-on online this year. Is your dad one of those “cool” dads? If so, these are definitely the sunglasses you’re looking for this father’s day.



Tom Ford Sunglasses

Model displayed FT0674 52D
Shop here.

This trendy pair of men’s eyewear is perfect for the youthful spirit dads. While the pilot shape is a classic, the colours and materials of these Tom Ford sunglasses are trendy and unique. The dark, neutral tones will go great with any look. This father’s day you can get these virtual try-on favorites by Tom Ford for the best prices with SmartBuyGlasses.



Persol Sunglasses

Model displayed PO0714 Folding Polarized 24/S3.
Shop here.

Is your dad a morning person? These Persol sunglasses with blue lenses are great for seeing clearly through mist or fog. These glasses are both high fashion and high function. The cool dark colour tones give these sunnies a sophisticated outdoorsy look.


Mont Blanc

Model displayed MB0033s Polarized 005.
Shop here.

Any dad that spends time outdoors is going to appreciate these Mont Blanc shades for father’s day. These sunglasses use polarizing technology to provide clear vision while outdoors. With durable metal frames and UV protection lenses, these sunglasses will be a huge hit this father’s day 2020.



Emporio Armani Sunglasses

Model displayed Emporio Armani EA4029 50638G.
Shop here.


Armani is famous for the bold designs that still look casual, and outfits that will make you look like the fashionista but without forcing you to try too much. These sunglasses are no different. With small details on these sunglasses from Armani, such as the logo on the frame not being engraved, these glasses will add a statement to your outfit without grabbing attention from it. The smooth gradient lens is something that reflects the aura of Giorgio Armani and it is something that will let people know that you have put thought into what you wear.


Shop all designers sunglasses on www.smartbuyglasses.co.uk

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A Great British Porridge

Looking for a healthy, delicious and nutrient-packed breakfast to power up your morning? Then tuck into the 100% natural, instant porridges from the Great British Porridge Co. – as seen on Dragon’s Den!

As a big porridge fan I couldn’t be more delighted but to try those new additions.

Crammed with the best, ethically-sourced fruit, nuts and seeds, as well as British wholegrain oats, these naturally-delicious porridges come in three nutritious flavours: Red Berry & Pumpkin Seed, Blueberry & Banana and Strawberry & Peanut Butter.

Blueberry & Banana

Perfect as a quick breakfast at the desk, on the go or before the school run, whipping up a delicious hot and wholesome breakfast couldn’t be easier. Simply tear open the pack, add boiling water, stir and in just 60 seconds you can tuck in!

Strawberry & Peanut Butter

All Great British Porridge Co. products are suitable for vegans and those following a dairy or gluten free diet. They contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives

Red Berry & Pumpkin Seed

Naturally sweet, vegan, dairy and gluten free, the Great British Porridge Co’s range of delicious, 100% natural instant porridges are high in protein and fibre and full of carefully-sourced ingredients, making breakfast speedy, nutritious and delicious.

Where to buy it?

The Great British Porridge Co. is available from Sainsbury’s, Wholefoods Market, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and selected retailers nationwide.

About The Great British Porridge Co.

Made in small batches near the sea in Sussex, The Great British Porridge Co. recently appeared on Dragon’s Den and received offers from all five dragons.

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‘In & Out’ Probiotic and Prebiotic Skincare Solutions by FUNDERM

They take care of the DERM so that you can concentrate on the FUN.

A disruptive skincare brand Funderm has hit UK shores! And we could only fall in love with that awesome packaging.

To enhance this process, Funderm have mixed the two-best skin-loving ingredients – Probiotics & Prebiotics, combining to formulate a unique active ‘In & Out’ solution that’s unlike anything else on the market. Individually they work great, but together with powerful active ingredients, they form a cutting-edge formula that clears pimples and blemishes, soothes irritated skin and restores the delicate ‘Microflora’ to ensure your skin is glowing, gorgeous and glorious. Goodbye bad skin days! 

In their own words, “Funderm provide the sickest solutions for your skincare needs, no matter your skin type. Whether you’ve got bomb skin that needs a little love or get regular visits from the blemish bi#%h, Funderm have created a powerful complex made to deliver quick, efficient and impressive results”.

Let’s have a closer look:

NO DRAMA | Natural Clay Mask

£32 RRP. Shop at www.funderm.com

What it is: Ready for a quickie? NO DRAMA by Funderm is a natural red clay mask that will leave your skin purified, beautiful, purified and balanced in only 5 mins, with visible results from the first use. The clay is smooth, creamy and has a soft luxurious scent. NO DRAMA is easy to apply and is made for maximum results in minimal time.

What it does: NO DRAMA features an innovative blend of clinically proven active ingredients. The formula includes Prebiotics & Probiotics and wonderous dead sea minerals leaving your skin purified, balanced and beautiful. NO DRAMA also contains Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E and Vitamin B3 to inhibit sebum production and improve your skins’ texture. The active formula minimizes the appearance of pores by keeping them clean, leaving your face revitalised with never-ending elasticity. Forget what Mary J said, we want all the drama in our lives!

WAS BAD | Anti Pimples Gel Treatment

£28 RRP. Shop at www.funderm.com

What it is: It’s time to stop taking it on the chin! WAS BAD is the ultimate on-the-go invisible anti-pimple treatment gel, with visible results, for problematic breakouts and blemishes that can be such a b#@$*. Thanks to Funderm’s innovative formula with clinically proven, active ingredients and the Prebiotic & Probiotic complex, your skin will look pimple-free and purified.

What it does: This delicate oil-free gel combines clinically proven active ingredients such as Prebiotics & Probiotics and wondrous dead sea minerals to unclog pores, exfoliate dead skin cells and control sebum. Day-by-day, WAS BAD’s cutting-edge formula works around the clock to clear pimples and blemishes, soothe irritated skin and restore its delicate microflora back to full health. It’s invisible with visible results!

LAVI DAVI | Multivitamin For Skin

£32 RRP (60 GUMMIES). Shop at www.funderm.com

What it is: For beautiful skin, suck on your gummy! LAVI DAVI is a yummy, lip-smacking grape flavoured multivitamin food supplement that contains natural active ingredients such as collagen, phosphatidylserine and the $h%*-hot Prebiotic & Probiotic complex. LAVI DAVI is also gluten free and contains 0% fat. Each bottle contains enough gummies for 1 month – two per day.

What it does: Prebiotics & Probiotics work together to rejuvenate your skins’ natural bacterial compounds enabling beautiful skin. Backed by essential minerals, active ingredients and vitamins such as zinc, vitamin E, B6, phosphatidylserine and collagen, LAVI DAVI helps prevent future breakouts keeping your skin beautiful and fresh. You will taste and see the difference!

Shop at www.funderm.com

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Shake Up Your Drinks Cabinet With New Hard Milkshake Liqueurs

How spoiled we have been: whilst being stuck at home here it is a box containing three bottles of milkshakes and alcohol! A match made in heaven!

Before you ask, it has an insanely rich taste and low alcohol (15% abv) so it has been made for an incredible drinking experience.

In a nutshell, the Brand new bottled ‘hard’ shakes have all the deliciously decadent flavour of an American diner milkshake, but with a boozy twist! Introducing Chocolate, Strawberry and Banana Hard Milkshake Liqueurs, available exclusively at Firebox.com.

Perfectly blended with a hard dose of cream liqueur goodness, this tasty trio of dairy-filled delights can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, in a shot or as the pivotal ingredient of some creamy cocktails.

Add a sumptuous kick to your drinks cabinet and test your home mixology skills with these luxurious liqueurs – take your pick from these tempting flavours:

Strawberry Hard Milkshake Liqueur

£19,99 RRP. Available exclusively at www.firebox.com

Deliciously decadent version of the classic American Diner milkshake, but with a boozy twist. Velvety in texture with candied, fruity strawberry notes and a bold vanilla finish.

This indulgent velvety blend tastes absolutely heavenly whether sipped neat on the rocks, drizzled over desserts, or mixed into smoothies and sweet summer cocktails – strawberries-and-cream Caipirinhas anyone? Yum. 

  • Sweet, velvety strawberry with rich, creamy vanilla. SO delicious 
  • That classic diner shake experience – with a boozy twist
  • Your new favourite summer tipple has arrived!
  • Reduced alcohol content (15% ABV) for a relaxed drinking experience
  • Add a luxurious boozy kick to smoothies, desserts and cocktails
  • Tastes ridiculously good over ice or mixed into smoothies and cocktails

Banana Hard Milkshake Liqueur

£19,99 RRP. Available exclusively at www.firebox.com

Transport yourself to the beach with rich banana flavour perfectly balanced with vanilla and a blended dose of cream liqueur goodness.

This smooth and milky mashup tastes absolutely sublime whether served neat over ice, poured liberally over desserts, or sloshed into smoothies and milk-based cocktails – give a fruity boost to that Banana Daiquiri! 

  • Fresh n’ fruity banana with smooth, creamy vanilla – the perfect tropical tipple 
  • All the flavours of a classic diner shake, with a boozy twist
  • Tastes absolutely fantastic served neat on the rocks
  • Reduced alcohol content (15% ABV) for a laidback drinking experience
  • Add a bright and boozy banana kick to creamy cocktails and desserts

Chocolate Hard Milkshake Liqueur

£19,99 RRP. Available exclusively at www.firebox.com

Delve into the silky smooth texture of luxuriously creamy chocolate, with sweet notes of decadent vanilla and a sophisticated alcohol kick.

This luxurious chocolatey concoction tastes unbelievably delicious served neat, over ice, or glugged generously into a milk-based cocktail – think next-level White Russians and chocolatey Espresso Martinis! 

  • Smooth, silky, creamy, chocolatey – my GOD it’s good
  • All the flavours of a classic diner shake – with a boozy twist
  • Get your moreish milkshake fix without drinking a whole tub of ice cream! 
  • Reduced alcohol content (15%) for an easy-going drinking experience 
  • Move over Irish Cream, there’s a new (and far tastier) liqueur in town!
  • Tastes great over ice, in a coffee, or splashed into creamy cocktails and desserts

Each one of the Hard Shakes has a reduced alcohol content for an easy-going drinking experience so you can really savour the flavour.

About Firebox:

Firebox: A London-based lifestyle retailer selling a highly curated mix of unconventional homeware, lifestyle accessories, gadgets, food, drink and gifts ‘with a twist’.
We believe the products we choose to surround ourselves with are a reflection of the way we live our lives and are an extension of our personality. Our mission is to shake things up and get people to embrace their more imaginative side.

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