City Chic Styling Solutions: The Look-book.

 

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Look-book Lowdown:

Leisurely park strolls and seeing the sights calls for comfort but that’s no reason to skimp on style!

I’ve pulled some looks featuring some of summers hottest trends and staple items that will take you straight through into Autumn for the latest edition of my ‘Styling Solutions‘ Series: City Chic.

*Content is not sponsored.

The Basket Bag Trend:

My bag is vintage and is my take on the massive basket bag trend that is everywhere this summer. It has a chic Italian vibe to it and I’ve noticed this type of wooden handle feature is bang on trend going into Autumn/Winter 2017 gracing several bags that I’ve seen. One thing I adore and embrace about the fashion industry is when vintage style, is deemed on trend again! Rehashing styles instead of a focus on fast fashion is gathering momentum and is something Ive always embraced. Focus on attaining a collection of classic pieces that never truly go out of style and ‘shop your wardrobe’ to make the most out of your wardrobe pieces and get the most bang for your buck!

My white leather plimsolls with gold trim (pictured above) add a smart yet comfortable approach to footwear when exploring the cityscape.


Headwear:

I am an avid wearer of hats and this particular style and material is ideal for hot, summer styling or warding off crisp autumnal chill. Lightweight, and adding a chic flair to any outfit, this piece is from Marks and Spencer (last year’s collection). Keep an eye out for their S/S18 collection as they typically carry similar styles each summer season.

{Pictured wearing: Belle sleeved denim jacket from Penneys (Primark).}

Belle of the Ball:

Belle sleeves are also a massive trend that is going nowhere this Autumn/Winter season. This lightweight belle sleeved denim jacket features such feminine details as the belle sleeve coupled with a pretty bow detail on the arms. The sleeves can be hiked up to shorten sleeve length if desired and it is the perfect transitional piece to take me from cool summer nights into crisp autumnal weather before Old Man winter takes hold and the cashmere makes an appearance!

My top also continues the 70s style belle sleeve trend so whether I have my jacket on or off I’m rocking a belle sleeve!

I’m very particular when choosing a floral print to wear and I’m not usually one for larger prints but this one spoke to me plus the colours and print can be styled right into Autumn, perfect for a hint of the elusive Indian Summer weather!

Throwing Shade:

White shades – were a massive trend this summer and this continues into the coming season. This pair from Guess (via TK Maxx) embrace two trends; white frames coupled with the cat eye trend, and with no shortage of compliments on these shades it’s safe to say they’ll be gracing my face for another while yet!


Shop the Look: 

Jacket & Cargo Pants: via Penneys  (Primark)

Top: via Swamp Fashion.

Watch: via Caravelle New York

Chain: bespoke piece via Liwu Jewellery

Shades: Guess via TK Maxx.

Earrings: via Accessorize.

Hat: via Marks and Spencer.

Shoes: Plimsolls via River Island.

Bag: is Vintage.

Tell me what are your key transitional pieces that will see you through from Summer to Autumn! Find me on Twitter: @DublinGail  Instagram: @littlegforce  Facebook: GlamForce Blog by Gail O’Connor

Until next time…

Gail. x

Photography: Cormac Pow.

Liberty & Light with Alex & Ani – LIBERTY COPPER Collection. #CarryLight 

LIBERTY COPPER Collection Launch from Alex and Ani #CarryLight

Liberty Copper #CarryLight collection launch from Alex and Ani

New York State of Mind:

Renowned jewellery brand Alex and Ani launched their newest collection ‘Liberty Copper‘ last week and I was delighted to be invited to attend the launch of such an innately special collection.

The Location: The Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St. Dublin.
The Date: Thursday October 20th 2016.

If you love New York as much as I do then this collection is for you!

Featuring original copper from the centenial restoration project of the Statue of Liberty, Alex and Ani bought the copper to preserve and use in this extremely limited edition jewellery collection – essentially allowing consumers to acquire their very own piece of historic Lady LibertyGenius. Within this collection is the Sterling Silver Collection and 14K Gold collection.

All pieces come complete with a certificate of authenticity also!

Liberty Copper #CarryLight collection launch from Alex and Ani
{Artist Dara Kenny: live drawing the NYC skyline in a graffiti mural style.}

Liberty Copper #CarryLight collection Launch from Alex and Ani

Liberty Copper #CarryLight collection Launch from Alex and Ani

The LIBERTY COPPER Collection:

Charged with the HOPE of millions

The Statue of Liberty inspires all to believe in limitless opportunities.
The light of Lady Liberty is represented in the copper flame located in the disc of the collection. By wearing a piece form this collection it is hoped that by bearing her light we too can carry the light, ignite the light in others and create a light indivisible. #CarryLight

Prices are reasonable for such a special and historic collection starting at:
Carry Light Spoon ring and Carry Light Kindred Cord Bracelet both €49.00.

You can shop the collection below.

Liberty Copper #CarryLight collection Launch from Alex and Ani

Liberty Copper #CarryLight collection launch from Alex and Ani

{Creating my tote bag courtesy of Damn Fine Print.}

The launch was buzzing with quintessential New York vibes from live mural drawing from Dara Kenny to the brilliant Bugle Babes belting out a jazz compilation.

Guests were invited to create their own tote bag courtesy of Damn Fine Print – featuring the New York skyline and Lady Liberty.

I adore the extra attention to detail these special touches bring, they add finesse to an event and allow guests to take home mementos continuing the experience at home.

The evening was festive with guests agreeing it felt like a kick start to dare I say it…Christmas!

This is an extremely limited collection – availability from The Kilkenny Shop and Arnotts Dublin. Best get your skates on if you intend to own a piece of the collection!
If you do pick up a piece let me know! Twitter: DublinGail – Instagram: @littlegforce – Snapchat: DublinGail

Social Pics: from IMAGE Magazine.

Thank you Alex and Ani and Hunter Communications for the invitation to such a special occasion.

Thanks for stopping by, until next time…

Peace – Love – Unity.

Gail. x

Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

Social Pics: © IMAGE Magazine.

*Not sponsored .

Marcel’s Dublin The REVIEW: Cocktails and Dreams!

Review Marcel's French Restaurant Dublin #BestofMarcels Influencer Evening in association with BLOGGERCONFNF

 

Marcel's Restaurant Review: Mixology Masterclass ib Conjunction with BLOGGERCONF

The Event: Marcel’s ‘Influencer Evening’ Mixology Masterclass in conjunction with BLOGGERCONF. #BestofMarcels

The Date: August 18th 2016
The Location: Marcel’s French Restaurant, Merrion Row, Dublin.

I adore the glamour the addition of a tray of cocktails brings to an evening, adding a certain ‘je nais se quoi‘, and serving as the ultimate conversation starter!

 

Labour of Love:

From inception, to sourcing fresh ingredients and the quality of alcohol used, right through to the often mind-blowing presentation, you have to admit – done right, cocktail making is an art form!

The vast crowd assembled to celebrate Marcel’s first anniversary on Merrion Row, Dublin, eagerly lapped up all the behind the scenes tid-bits on the art of cocktail making at this exclusive ‘Influencerevent!

Leading the evening’s festivities was Tomasz our bartender and mixology mastermind for the evening, a hospitable and friendly host who whipped up some divine concoctions, my faves being the pineapple and passion-fruit blends!

Marcel's Restaurant Review: Mixology Masterclass in conjunction with BLOGGERCONF

Marcel's Restaurant Review: Mixology Masterclass in Conjunction with BLOGGERCONF

Marcel’s is part of the Mercantile Group also responsible for some of my favourite restaurants and bars such as uber stylish and renowned Pichet, Farrier and Draper, Opium and Cafe En Seine to name but a few.

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{One of my faves of the evening was this pineapple and passion-fruit blend! I give you ‘La Passiona‘ complete with copper tankard…and we all know how much I love copper anything!}

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The evening was a smashing success! An informative and incredibly fun learning experience – with some attendees even trying their hand in applying what we had learned!

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The Pornstar Martini is a winner. Every. Time.

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{Cheers to Marcel’s and their first Anniversary}

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I highly recommend a trip to Marcel’s Dublin to sample their copious array of cocktails if you’re in Dublin visiting or just in town for a shopping trip or night out! It’s worth noting the food is also delicious.

Thanks to Marcels Dublin for the invitation to celebrate their First year Anniversary on Merrion Row, Dublin and to Buck and Hound PR and BLOGGERCONF also.

Thanks for stopping by guys! Until next time…

Gail. xx

Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

*Not sponsored.

 

REVIEW: Dental Care with REGENERATE NR5- Worth the Hype?!

REVIEW: Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 Toothpaste Worth the Hype?

#RegenerateYourSmile Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste Review

Shine Bright Like a Diamond!

#RegenerateYourSmile

One of our best accessories is often the most ignored and taken for granted – our smile.

Our smile is often the first welcoming and friendly sign we give to people and the wider the better! First impressions count for a lot and especially so when working in the beauty industry and networking at events like Fashion Week

I attended the official re-launch of Regenerate products in Ireland in May and since June, I have been trialling *Regenerate Toothpaste with Nr5™ in a bid to undo some of the damage from enamel erosion as well as the damage I have done to the gum surrounding a tooth which has left the dentine surrounding it exposed. This particular dentine problem arose during an overly zealous tooth brushing session recently, much to the dismay of myself and my Dentist…who marvelled at the fact that I was being too clean with my brushing!

 

#RegenerateYourSmile the review Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste

What is Tooth Enamel?

Tooth enamel is the outer coating of the tooth and despite it’s hardness it gets eroded daily by acid attacks from food and drink.

At the re-launch of Regenerate Enamel Science NR5™ Toothpaste guests were told how to spot if their tooth enamel is wearing thin, by checking the bottom of our teeth and examining if the bottom is becoming a little more transparent then the rest of our teeth. Most of us in attendance had signs of enamel erosion…

#RegenerateYourSmile the Review Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste

How Does Enamel Become Eroded?

Tooth enamel erosion frequently goes unnoticed and happens to everyone of all ages, making teeth increasingly vulnerable. It can occur from enamel exposure to acidic food and drinks such as carbonated drinks like lemonade, cola, vegetable juices and smoothies and fruit waters such as lemon water. It is best to consume these liquids through a straw to curtail the exposure of acid to the tooth enamel.

The Claims:

Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 builds up, essentially “regenerating” the enamel surrounding teeth and makes it stronger protecting against tooth decay and loss.
According to the team behind Regenerate Enamel Science80% of common tooth problems are caused by enamel erosion and acid attacks“.

9 years of research inspired by bone repair technology have lead to the development of the exclusive and clinically proven NR5™ technology.

 

With every use active NR-5 ingredients combine to form a fresh supply of enamel minerals. These wrap and integrate onto teeth helping to regenerate enamel and reverse the erosion process helping to keep teeth strong and healthy.

It is the first system that can regenerate enamel mineral, with the same mineral that tooth enamel is made from, helping to regenerate enamel by restoring its mineral content and micro hardness .

The Review:

Like I said above, I had an overzealous tooth cleaning session rushing out the door one morning and brushed too hard resulting in a slight exposure of dentine to one of my teeth. I realised I had done something wrong when the incident took place however the soreness subsided after a day or two and I got on with things making a note to visit the dentist – noticing in the mirror that my gum looked a little more in an upward position to its usual appearance.

#RegenerateYourSmile the Review: Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste

I went about the start of my day and headed out for my daily walk…(I add at this point, that this was in the middle of winter in frigid conditions). Mid-way through my walk and really pounding the pavement I began to breathe deeper through my mouth as I was feeling the workout – once I inhaled the icy cold air within it went directly to the area of sensitivity surrounding my tooth where the dentine had become exposed! I winced with the pain and thought “that’s weird!”. I hadn’t realised that it was the spot that had been sore whilst brushing a dew days before! I continued my walk but had to reduce the speed as the same thing kept happening with every breath – and similiar pain arising upon consumption of cold drinks or ice-cream.

Since using Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 religiously morning and night I have noticed a significant difference in the reduction of sensitivity particularly in the “exposed” area. I have also noticed significant whitening of my teeth has occured and that the tip of the bottom of some of my teeth, that were slightly transparent are less so now after prolonged use. I used a pea-sized amount daily morning and evening (before events and the like also) and the product lasted me about 3 months used in this way.

 Major Performance Points right there!

My Experience – from Performance Points to Pleasure of Use:

Significant lessening of sensitivity to the area where dentine is exposed.
☆ Whitened teeth quickly
☆ Gentle formula – pleasing crystallised appearance, no burning sensation.
☆ Pleasant, mild yet effective minty taste and scent.
☆ Decent sized tube (considering the price) – lasted 3 months using pea-sized amount.

Worth the Money?

The Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆/☆

I would say that if I saw it on the shelf I would probably scoff at the price however having tried the product, I have experienced the benefits and having been to the re-launch I now have an understanding of the science and research that goes into this product to back up the immense claims.

I give it 4/5 stars only de-ducting points for the price point which may make it unattainable for some folk. Performance-wise I found it to be stellar.

Upon trialling, Regenerate Enamel NR5 is in my opinion, definitely worth the money if you suffer from any of the issues I have mentioned in this post and if it within your price point. It has definitely earned it’s four star rating!

Would I purchase again?

Definitely,  for the reasons above. The price would have me considering my budget with every purchase however as at €13.99 it is approximately double the price of other household names in toothpaste (which I can understand given the research), that claim to do something similiar…it is definitely a results based, considered purchase!

#RegenerateYourSmile the Review: Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste

There is also a Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 Boosting Serum Kit™ that you can use alongside the toothpaste for double the performance, however I wanted to trial the toothpaste alone to see results from  its solo performance as a lot of people may decide to only opt for the toothpaste option in the Regenerate Enamel Science family!

The Boosting Serum rings in at €39.99 a considerable hike in price form the toothpaste but the claims are that it lasts three months, used once a week for three days with a heightend performance power through dual usage of products.

I hope to report back on the performance power of this product once I incorporate it into my routine.

#RegenerateYourSmile the Review: Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste

#RegenerateYourSmile the Review: Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste

#RegenerateYourSmile the Review: Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste

{A close up of the crystallised appearance of Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste – I found the appearance very pleasing, coupled with the gentle whitening effect I felt the toothpaste really performed the way the scientists claimed it would.}

There you have it, thoroughly tried and tested – Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 toothpaste comes ‘GlamForce Approved and Recommended‘.

Thank yous go to Unilever Prestige and Avila Lipsett for the invitation to the incredible Regenerate event and Press Samples to trial.

Have any of you tried Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 Toothpaste? Do you think you will?Let me know!

Regenerate products are available in most Boots stores.

I hope you enjoyed this Review/Beauty Chat style post guys and thanks for stopping by!

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.
This post contains PR Samples marked with * however all thoughts and views are 100% my own as always!

DUBLIN FASHION: The 2016 #DublinFashion Festival Launch! #GalaxyStyle

The 2016 #DublinFashion #GalaxyStyle Dublin Fashion Festival Launch

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Essence of Dublin:

The Event: The Launch of Dublin Fashion Festival

A humid, wet summer’s eve saw the annual launch of Dublin Fashion Festival take place in conjunction with Galaxy Ireland hosting Ireland’s finest fashion industry folk, assembled at the same time in the same place, to celebrate Dublin and it’s shopping and fashion offerings. The venue was packed to the rafters despite the dismal evening and I was delighted to be amongst those invited to celebrate!

The always uber dapper, Darren Kennedy was in attendance as this years ‘face‘ of Dublin Fashion Festival – the first time a male has been selected to represent the festival!

The Location: City Hall, Dublin
The Date: August 17th 2016.

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The Outfit: I styled my outfit around this gorgeous cold shoulder kimomo – kindly gifted to me by Boohoo.com. I’m obsessed with it! I channelled my inner Penny Lane – Kate Hudson’s character in Almost Famous and went for a seventies style look (a huge trend right now), with a modern twist! I absolutely love this outfit choice and I felt stylish and comfortable – so important. 

Hat: Penneys (Primark)

*Kimono: gifted from Boohoo.com

Top & Arm Cuff: New Look

Bag: H&M

Jeans: H&M

Choker: River Island

Watch: Caravelle New York

Shoes: Korkys

Upon arrival guests were greeted at the door with a warm welcome and informed of various hubs within the venue such as the Galaxy Ireland #GalaxyStyle hangout, the Dyson Supersonic area and the West Coast Cooler bar!

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The Galaxy Style Hangout Area: a welcome hub to relax in and chat whilst waiting for the event to start and afterwards to reflect on the show with some chocolate and West Coast Cooler. How swish and stylish is this set up? Just look at the seating!

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There was just enough time before the show to allow guests to snap some pictures, mingle and catch up over a refreshing offering from West Coast Cooler – I opted to try the rosè (I’m usually an original WCC kinda girl!) with a blackberry and lime zest twist. Delish! I’ll definitely be trying this concoction at home!

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Hanging out in the Galaxy Style Hub: Raising a glass to the Dublin Fashion Team, Galaxy Ireland and everyone else involved in the production of the festival – it’s a highlight event in my Fashion calendar year! 

The Show:

Overview: The show opened with an acoustic version of Royals by Lorde – sung busker-style, paying homage to scenes on the streets of Dublin such as Grafton Street. The room was still, only the flash of photographers could be heard, the audience were enthralled and models marched down the runway in unison to the beat of the music. The lyrics punctuated the air like exclamation points and with a roaring applause and change in pace of music, the show had well and truly begun!

Offerings from stores such as the Stephen’s Green CentrePowerscourt Centre, Brown ThomasPenneys (Primark), Dunnes Stores, and various other shops and boutiques around Dublin featured with bright jewel toned hues, coupled with gold hues as seen from the likes of Swamp Fashions, as well as winter white (always a fave!), mustard, burgundy and browns littering the runway – tulle, lace, fur and suede also made a striking and prolonged appearance.

Military style influences, sports luxe options as well as formal evening wear also showcased for the women as well as country gentleman chic in the form of various style of suit, for the gents from the likes of Magee and Louis Copeland amongst others in the Menswear section of the show. Lastly, as with every winter wardrobe the colour black was never far away!

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A diverse mix of styles sashayed down the run-way from mid-length and long swish coats, high neck tops, pleated midi skirts, silk/lace camisoles, gladiator sandals, culotte style trousers, fur stoles, embellished garments, co-ords, skirts with slits, chokers and platform heeled sandals in a variety of heights featured in a showcase of AW16 styles available in a host of Dublin shops.

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{Not the best quality photo but I just had to include it! Galaxy Ireland treated guests to a personalised bar of chocolate – how cool is that?! It’s so hard to track down anything with my name on it! #delira #loveit }

ABOUT: Dublin Fashion Festival takes place in conjunction with Galaxy Ireland #GalaxyStyle this year. It kicked off today and runs from September 5th-11th with a schedule jam-packed with events (most open to the public) including on-street catwalk shows, a fashion photography exhibition, Luas Style Spotters to name just a few!

Head on over to www.dff.ie for all the details on the upcoming festivities!

Tell me: have any of you seen any Dublin Fashion Festival activities on the streets of Dublin in previous years?

I cannot wait for a week of  fashion, fun and frolics! 

Thank you to Clyde Carroll and the Dublin Fashion/Dublin Town Team, Galaxy Ireland, West Coast Cooler Ireland, Sadhbh and team at Elevate PR, and finally Boohoo.com/Burrell PR for kindly gifting me the kimono piece.

Thanks for stopping by guys!

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor
Twitter: @DublinGail
Instagram: @littlegforce

*Kimono is a gifted PR item.

VIP Morning with Peter Mark: Re-Launch of NIOXIN Thickening Hair Products.

NIOXIN VIP Morning with Peter Mark Hair Salon

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Thicker Hair and Breakfast in Style:

I was recently kindly invited to attend a VIP morning for the Re-Launch of NIOXIN Hair Products in Peter Mark where I would experience the full NIOXIN in-salon experience in my quest to return to my luscious locks. I had wanted to try NIOXIN since speaking with a Beauty Editor of a popular Irish magazine at a launch, about her amazingly thick hair and subsequently her experience with NIOXIN. I was reminded of this rumoured “miracle” hair product when my stylist mentioned it to me and hence I was delighted to receive the invitation from one of my favourite salons and where I had my very first job, Peter Mark! I remember it well…

The Event: VIP Morning: Re-Launch of NIOXIN with Peter Mark hair salon.

The Location: Dundrum Town Centre.

The Date: April 2016.

Upon arrival at the salon, I was warmly greeted by my stylist and offered an array of breakfast delights and refreshments from orange juice and warm freshly baked pastries such as croissants to sausage rolls and fruit, as was my mom who accompanied me (a mother-daughter day was on the cards), fascinated at the prospect of what treatment I was attending the salon for!

I was then whisked off to my seat to begin my Nioxin experience…

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The Consultation:

A hair consultation followed with my stylist and a Senior consultant of Wella (NIOXIN is under the Wella haircare umbrella) and a hair health check ensued using the latest technology to check hair density, growth, sebum excretion amounts (natural oils in the hair), hair follicle health and overall hair health. I had previously had a similar hair health check with a haircare company and knew my hair was healthy, however I wasn’t sure why after a lengthy illness a while back, it wasn’t growing back as thick or strong as it once had been.

As it turns out the hair that frames my face is particularly weak and grows a certain amount and then breaks therefore keeping hair thickness and growth in the area to a minimum…that’s where NIOXIN comes in!

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What is NIOXIN Dermabrasion?

A Facial for the Scalp – How it Works:

The NIOXON Demabrasion Treatment is an anti-aging treatment for the scalp to help regenerate and revitalise the scalps skin through an exfoliation process, just like a facial for the scalp!

Suitable for men and women and those with colour treated hair the dermabraison treatment gently exfoliates, removing build up around the hair follicles and the claims are that it helps skin surface regeneration by up to 34% compared to untreated skin. NIOXIN treatments and products are recommended for those with alopecia, thinning/fine hair in order to promote healthy, stronger and thicker hair growth.

The Process:

Designed to revitalise the scalp and prevent hair damage the NIOXIN Dermabrasion Treatment is applied to the hair and has a revitalising, zingy mint scent. The scalp tingles with the  active concoction of ingredients and signals that the treatment has gone to work on restoring the hair to it’s natural and former glory.

The Application:

Applied to dry hair in a grid pattern and massaged into hair for one minute.

Left on the hair for ten minutes and then rinsed well.

Followed by the recommended NIOXIN 3 Part System.

Hair was then styled as usual and re-examined once more: with sebum levels, scalp and hair surface and follicle condition all re-examined after the treatment.

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{Hair health is re-examined after the NIOXIN Dermabrasion Treatment.}

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{Images are so in depth that they show minute in-grown hairs in the scalp – too many of these and the scalp is congested.}

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{An example of a NIOXIN Three Part System.}

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{My finished look – complete with boho blow dry.}

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The Feedback:

I had a  lovely morning getting to grips with learning about these NIOXON products and in-salon treatments on offer in Peter Mark salons and I highly recommend trying NIOXIN products if you have thin/fine/thinning hair that’s in need of some nourishment and TLC perhaps after illness or having a baby or simply over-styling. Hair feels instantly strengthened, conditioned and thicker after one treatment. Scalp feels nourished and uber clean – all in all one is left with the perfect foundation for regeneration of hair growth! .

Have any of you tried NIOXIN treatment or products before? If so how did you like the products/treatment?

I was also to my surprise, kindly gifted a bottle of the NIOXIN Dia Boost Thickening Treatment with HTX before I left my consultation and I will be reporting back with my experience and review of this product soon.

Thank you goes to Peter Mark Dundrum Town Centre for this invitation to attend the NIOXIN VIP morning and experience these incredible treatments and products the gift and also to my wonderful stylist Emma, whose talented and capable hands I always feel comfortable in!

Thanks for stopping by guys!

Gail. x

Photography : © Gail O’Connor.
Not sponsored.

EXCLUSIVE: An Evening with Dior – A French Fragrance Journey!

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Date with Dior: the heritage, the fragrance journey!

When Dior come to Dublin and are hosting an event you know you’re in for a treat. That said, when you’re a fragrance fanatic and you hear it’s a Dior Fragrance Event, in one of your favourite places in Dublin, you hot-tail it to the event pronto!

The Event: Dior Fragrance Event.

The Location: Residence Members Club, St.Stephen’s Green, Dublin.

The Date: Tuesday, April 12th 2016.

Continue reading “EXCLUSIVE: An Evening with Dior – A French Fragrance Journey!”

EXCLUSIVE: My #BeautyBlossoms AVEDA Consultation and Hair Salon Experience at Brown Thomas!

Exclusive Aveda Consultation at Brown Thomas Beauty Blossom Event 2016 with Miss and Co Salon

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Beauty Blossom:

It was a busy day of work and meetings made all the more easier to navigate with the promise of a pamper session right in the middle of it all in one of my favourite Dublin haunts. This welcome reprieve from the norm came in the form of an exclusive invitation to an afternoon consultation with Aveda at the Brown Thomas Beauty Blossom Event.

The Location: The Beauty Garden, Brown Thomas, Grafton Street.

This exclusive consultation was with the highly skilled Deborah Jordan, Aveda Ambassador and Creative Director of Miss and Co. Hair Salon in Waterford, Ireland.

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About the Brand:

Aveda is a natural beauty company, with offerings in skin, hair and make-up.

Founder Horst went from successful and celebrated salon owner to founder of a natural hair and beauty brand whilst recovering from burn-out on a retreat in India. Horst had developed an appreciation for the power of wellness to promote balance to the mind, body and spirit from a young age through his herbalist mother.

Having moved to the states later in life from Austria, he developed his first clove shampoo in a kitchen sink in Minneapolis together with Shiv Nath Tandon whom he met in India as well as some doctors of Ayurveda. All have continued to work for Aveda since the early seventies.

A Brand is Born:

In 1978 Aveda was born through this well timed collaboration. The vision? To bring beauty professionals products that would be good for them, their guests, the Earth and its communities.

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My Aveda Experience:

I was excited for the opportunity to try a new haircare brand and better still, try some natural haircare from a brand I have long heard rave reviews about.

Upon arrival I was warmly greeted with a cup of delicious Aveda Peppermint and Liquorice Tea and lead to my seat.

I then met with Deborah for my consultation and first up was a debrief on my hair, discussing everything from it’s current health state, manageability etc and any style requests I had. I had recently done a blog post on New York Fashion Week Hair Trends as done by Aveda at shows such as Jenny Packham, Public School, Charles Youssef and Leanne Marshall. I requested the beautiful and intricate Cobra Braid as featured in that post, to be done on my hair. Deborah agreed the look would suit me and my style and set about getting to work.

Next step was to de-stress. The Aveda Blue Oil was applied to my wrist points and I was told to close my eyes and inhale the calming benefits of the oil whilst a short but welcome Indian Head/ Shoulder massage and some limb stretching were performed. #bliss

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The Process: Get the Look!

Aveda’s Shampure was applied to sections of my hair and massaged into the scalp area around my head, followed by a brief, gentle back-comb of each section for a magnificent amount of volume.

Shampure is  dry shampoo which achieves what dry shampoo is designed to do but also gives a nice dose of volume with it. Application can be easily and evenly distributed, due to the packaging allowing targeted and accurate application of each section. Bonus: hair feels and smells incredibly clean and fresh with a slight herbal scent
to it that doesn’t overpower at all. Hair is left shiny – not matte and lacklustre looking like some other dry shampoos can leave hair.

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The Result:

I was astounded at how well the NYFW Cobra Braid re-creation turned out! Needless to say I was deliriously happy with the results from the volume, to the hairstyle itself and the overall Aveda experience – plus to know it was all natural haircare used to get the look, felt amazing.

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Hair Health:

Deborah also performed a hair health check, scanning and mapping out my hair follicles for an accurate reading on hair density, and overall hair health. I scored very high and am delighted (and relievedhello beauty blogger here!) to report my hair health is  excellent!

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{Density is captured and rated on a scale of one-five…five being excellent.}

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{Snapped: the delightful Deborah Jordan and I at the #BeautyBlossom event, Brown Thomas, Dublin.}

More pictures from The Brown Thomas #BeautyBlossom event:

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Massive thanks to Deborah Jordan and Aveda for having me! I’m always grateful and excited for an opportunity to try a new experience! If you’re around Waterford pop into Miss and Co. Salon, for a gorgeous Aveda experience and tell Deborah I sent you!

Have any of you tried Aveda products before or are you a newcomer like me? If so, what are your faves?

Aveda is available at Brown Thomas and various other department stores and independent salons in Ireland.

I hope you enjoyed this Beauty Chat and if you try out Aveda Tweet me: @DublinGail or tag me on Instagram: @littlegforce with pics, I’d love to see your experience!

Thanks for stopping by!

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

*Not sponsored.

NEW in Fashion: #HOFSS16 Discover New Season Style From The Brands at House of Fraser.

#HOF House of Fraser SS16 Press Preview Morrison Hotel Dublin Ireland

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With the promise of a heatwave here in Ireland, salute the arrival of summer with the SS16 Collection from House of Fraser!

I am in the process of making a concise list of key, classic pieces that I want to add to my capsule wardrobe for summer and an invitation to the House of Fraser SS16 Press Preview more than delivered.

The Event: House of Fraser SS16 Press Preview.

The Date: March 2nd 2016

The Location: The Morrison hotel, Dublin.

The Collection Overview:

Capsule pieces, practicality for the workplace, weekend wear, travel essentials – all are catered for in this stunning collection. Leather, lace, suede, print, all feature highly with neutrals playing an integral part in this playful and practical collection from House of Fraser.

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Swimwear: includes new addition Sea Folly!

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New Additions at House of Fraser!

Home to many well known and well loved labels such as Biba and Linea, exciting new additions such as Kenneth Cole and Sea Folly have made House of Fraser their home just in time for summer!

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My TOP Picks!

From basic wardrobe staple pieces to key summer essentials, these are my top picks from the Press Preview.

Biba:

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Linea:

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I hope you saw some summer staples for your wardrobe in this post from House of Fraser and if so, tell me what!</strong

Thanks for stopping by guys!

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

NEW in FASHION: The COS Collection of Style – SS16 Preview!

COS SS16 Style Collection Press Preview, Kerlin Gallery, Dublin

COS SS16 Style Collection Press Preview, Kerlin Gallery, Dublin.

Longing for brighter, warmer, sunkissed Spring days? I’ve got just the remedy! Feast your eyes on the exquisite new season collection from COS.

COS SS16 Style Collection Press Preview, Kerlin Gallery, Dublin

The Event: the COS SS16 Press Preview.

The Date: 12th November 2015.

The Location: Kerlin Gallery, Anne’s Lane, Dublin.

Held in the beautiful and appropriately minimalistic surroundings of the Kerlin Gallery the collection became the art and breathed life into the stark canvas of the room.
The perfect vibe to accompany the Spring/Summer 16 showcase by COS, a brand known for its premium, minimalist chic approach to apparel at a high-street price point.

COS SS16 Style Collection Press Preview, Kerlin Gallery, Dublin.

The Welcome:

A warm hug and the offer of a delicious Chai tea on arrival coming in from a damp and blustery day, was the beginning of a wonderful afternoon taking in all things COS at the COS Press Preview for their SS16 Collection. Delightful.

COS SS16 Style Collection Press Preview, Kerlin Gallery,  Dublin.

The Overview:

Celebrating Essentials and Reinterpreting Calm at COS This Season.

COS SS16 Style Collection Press Preview,  Kerlin Gallery, Dublin.

The Collection:

Women’s wear is treated to a theme of reduction and reinvention in a palette of blush, cream and sandstone hues. A pared back naturalistic approach to the collection sees the company highlighting an evident organic, effortless and functional appeal – sure to make this collection a stand-out for the pretty, practical and chic lovers amongst us!

Elegance simply abounds in this collection…

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Organic Oragami Approach.

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A stand-out piece for me was the pearl linen silk shirt, falling in folds that elegantly drape around the neckline.

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Back to Basics: Nude Rules.

Sandstone hues take inspiration from the organic shapes of sand dunes seen in Renate Aller’s photographs and results in garments organiclly structured and delivered with a calming influence.

With a firm focus on a reduction in details, and the use of luxurious fabrics such as silk, the collection is simply stunning.
Neutrals in summer are always in style.

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Raw Denim:

The collection sees denim celebrated for it’s functionality, desirability and simplicity. Denim is set to be a HUGE trend this SS16 and is layered throughout the collection right down to the accessories!

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The Accessories:

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Knotted leather sandals in grey or white.

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Angular, metallic jewellery featuring details such as compressed, recycled denim adds another contemporary twist to the collection.

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{I love this angular take on the jewellery, this piece in particular!}

Menswear:

Tailoring, fresh silhouettes, car coats and boat necks feature strongly in the Menswear Collection for summer.

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The overall vibe to this press event was sheer elegance complimented by a chic and minimal approach to the presentation, perfectly complimenting the brand. I am looking forward to picking up a a couple of pieces from this collection and incorporating them seamlessly into my wardrobe capsule collection.

This was one of my favourite press events that I have attended. I cannot get over the overall attention to detail. From the presentation of the collection calmly and eloquently communicated by the PR representatives for the company, the aesthetics of the show place adding an almost ethereal feel to the event, to the welcome spread of a selection of teas and nibbles laid out, complimented with a seating area.

A calm, cool and chic presentation – to be honest I expect nothing less from COS.

The collection is rolling out in-store from February – so not long now to wait!

What are some of your favourites that stand out from the collection? Tweet me @DublinGail/Tag me on Instagram @littlegforce or leave your faves in the comments section below!

Thank you to Baluba for the invitation and the Kerlin Gallery.

Thanks for stopping by everyone!

Gail.Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

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