Très Lola

Style, Quality & Eco-Excellence: Ascension

2009-10-20T20:26:00.007+01:00

Ascension is putting the chic in eco-chic, and they "...want to show the world that a stylish and design-led lifestyle can also be a sustainable one". The companies commitment to ensuring they operate ethically is impressive with everything from fair trade and organic fibres, carbon emissions, charitable projects, labour standards and animal products considered. Ascension have done the hard yards to create a guilt-free style haven and their pieces talk for themselves.

"We are working towards eco-excellence all the time"
By supporting eco-positive brands like Ascension, you're not only choosing style and quality but you contribute directly to the growth of the environmental consciousness in business but to a fairer future for manufacturers in developing nations.

Ascension have pieces for all occasions, here are some of the beautifully crafted eco-friendly options available in the online store:

Black to Basics

This cropped black blazer with slight statement shoulders plays on a few current trends while maintaining a classic elegance, perfect teamed with tailored trousers for the office or over a dress in the evening. A little black dress is a timeless wardrobe staple, this one is a flattering relaxed fit given shape with it's built in wide waist belt.

Mathilde Cropped Jacket, 109.00 (fair trade, made in Nepal) & Ascension Amy Dress, 79.00 (made from Bamboo viscose mix)

Dressed Up Like A Lady
These dresses are perfect for taking you from the office to the evening, worn over dark opaque stocking and cinched with a smart belt for the day or paired with statement heels and a cropped leather bomber jacket for the evening.

Dona Dress 65.00 (100% cotton, hand made in Nepal) & Ascension Ruby Dress, 75.00 (100% organic cotton sateen)

Steal His Style

Pull on this men's cardi over straight cut or skinny jeans for a comfy & stylish autumn option. Style up a classic white button down shirt by belting at the waist, pairing with a tie or emblazoned with a few vintage brooches.

Eco Rib Cardigan, 39.00 (organic & recycled materials) & Classic Poplin Shirt, 45.00 (100% organic, fair trade cotton)

If you're the kind of girl who loves a hot bargain, be sure not to miss Ascensions Clearance section. Ascension is based in Dorset, United Kingdom; delivery is available worldwide. All prices stated within article are in British Pounds.

What do you think of Ascension? Why not stop by the website and share your favourite pieces in the comments!

Blog Action Day: Uncovering Greenwash

2009-10-15T10:31:00.002+01:00

Linguistically playing on the word 'whitewash' and utilising the colour green, as is now intrinsically linked to the concept of environmentalism, GREENWASH refers to "...the practice of companies disingenuously spinning their products and policies as environmentally friendly" (source).

'Greenwash' is not a new concept. The word was first used by environmentalist, Jay Westerveld, in 1986, when referring to the hotel industry and specifically the concept of guests being encouraged to re-use towels. The concept was spruiked as a way for the guest to 'save the environment'. However, the hotel industries business policies remained unenvironmentally conscious, leading one to inevitably consider that this was more an exercise in cost cutting than in genuine support of a cleaner, greener environment.

Climate change is an inevitable and globally pertinent issue and as such, we as consumers from across the world are becoming more aware of the simple ways that we can contribute to acting ethically when it comes to environmentalism. In becoming aware of the existence of greenwash we can avoid supporting companies that are deliberately misleading us, as consumers, by cashing in on our desire to shop ethically.

Driving company profitability can be a key factor behind employing this sort of tactic - that is utilising public relations companies or advertising campaigns to push products and services as an eco-friendly option, or going further, to rebrand a company on a whole.

Companies are very aware that 'green' sells. A key reason why it is so important to ensure we are do not support these companies that falsify or exaggerate their environmental pursuits is that we are allowing them to profit and gain greater power within their industry - essentially, we enable their growth.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

For more information about how to identify whether companies are genuine in their support of environmentalism, click to download the pdf 'The Seven Sins of Greenwash'.

By making smarter environmental choices we can be the change that the world so desperately needs.

When you are shopping is an environmentally friendly product/service important to you? Would you purchase an obviously 'greener' product/service if you had the option?

UN, General Assembly, 1st Committee, Arms Trade Treaty - What does it all mean?

2009-10-13T23:08:00.008+01:00

Apathy
Originally uploaded by Toban Black

When you don't see first hand the detriment of gun crime, it can be difficult to gauge the scale of the problem. It's like all of the television commercials about poverty in third world countries - it can be simple to switch off when you can't relate. The key to overcoming this sort of apathy is to become aware.

So let's break it down a little and get across the agenda of the United Nations and in particular, the first committee - because right now, it may just seem like a whole bunch of guys and girls in suits, shaking hands and pushing paper, but what happens inside the walls of the United Nations Headquarters in New York City is pretty spectacular. There may not be designer gear and post-conference parties that see delegates spilling out of cabs at 5am looking scandalously worse for wear - and for this reason the UN won't make the cover of People magazine - but the work that is done at the UN? It's well worth page space and it's well worth your time.

Photo by scazon.

The United Nations: It's an international organization, founded in 1945, comprised of 192 member states (see full list here). These member states have agreed to accept and uphold the obligations of the Charter (view the charter here). In brief, the UN does not make laws, what it does do is provide a global body that works towards "solve[ing] problems that challenge humanity" (source). The UN has a focus on peacekeeping, development and human rights. You can learn lots more about the United Nations at the official UN website.

General Assembly (GA): The GA provides a forum for the 192 member states to discuss and make recommendations on the issues outlined in the Charter of the United Nations. For a more detailed outline of the functions and powers of the General Assembly, click here.

First Committee - Disarmament and International Security Committee: This is a committee within the General Assembly at the United Nations. It deals with issues surrounding international security and disarmament ("the act of reducing, limiting, or abolishing weapons" source)

Treaty: A treaty, in the context of the United Nations, is a binding agreement that the UN member states can opt to sign and uphold.

Image by JimBowen0306.

Arms Trade Treaty (ATT): An ATT was first addressed in the UN in 2006. Since then, diplomats have been discussing this potential treaty. Also since then, 2.1 million people have died, that's 2000 a day, as a result of armed violence (source).

The ATT is about regulating the conventional arms trade. There is presently no international regulation standard governing the import, export and transfer of conventional arms. This means that conventional weapons, like guns, that are intended for military purposes end up in the hands of criminals and other human rights abusers. These weapons are used to kill and maim civilians, as well facilitating the narcotics trade and other crimes such as armed burglary and rapes. This sort of criminal activity at the hands of conventional weaponry holds direct links to lack of development, which in turn makes for economic underdevelopment and poverty.

A key focus of an ATT would be on Risk Assessment - where are these weapons going? For what purpose? Does the end user have a history of negligent use of weaponry?

In 2006, 153 of the UN member states voted in favour of Resolution 61/89, a document that set out to achieve support on implementing an common international standards for the conventional arms trade (view Resolution 61/89 in full). 24 countries chose to abstain from voting (these counties included: Bahrain, Belarus, China, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Laos, Libya, Marshall Islands, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, UAE, Venezuela, Yemen, Zimbabwe (source). Only 1 country voted against the resolution, that country was the United States.

For more information about why an Arms Trade Treaty is needed urgently, watch the short video below:

For a more in depth look at the reason an Arms Trade Treaty is required, download the Oxfam report 'Dying for Action' (pdf).

What are your thoughts on an Arms Trade Treaty and the role of the United Nations?

The Girl Who Silenced the World for 5 minutes

2009-10-13T20:20:00.003+01:00

"You don't know how to fix the holes in our ozone layer. You don't know how to bring back an animal now extinct. And you can't bring back the forest that once grew where there is now a desert."

"If you don't know how to fix it, please, stop breaking it."

How to Use Twitter to Create Change - Tweeting a Treaty

2009-10-11T01:26:00.006+01:00

Skeptics of twitter will spend boundless energy on discouraging it's use and dismissing it's value. Their argument based on the belief that the tool is used primarily as a means to promote ones self and in particular, the mundane aspects of ones day. However, the value of twitter as a platform truly transcends that of Facebook style status updates. Twitter offers an outlet for all people to become citizen journalists and break up-to-the-minute news. It allows us to connect with politicians and celebrities with whom we would otherwise have had no level of conversation with. It also offers an opportunity to learn about topical issues through use of the search function.

The immediacy of Twitter has allowed for access to groundbreaking news from around the world, even before it has been picked up by traditional media outlets, such as television networks and radio stations. What follows are some examples of how twitter has been used to break and share up to the minute news:

In November 2008 twitter saw a flurry of texts offering accounts of the terrorist attack in Mumbai, as the tragedy unfolded. Soon after, twitter was used as a means of communicating the urgent need for blood donors to assist with those injured in the attacks (source).

January 15 2009 saw Janis Krums posting a photograph of the US Airways flight that crashed into the Hudson river, he was soon contacted by television networks to offer an eyewitness account of the events.

At London's G20 demonstrations in April 2009, Alok Jha reported on the Police tactic of kettling demonstrators and noted that those disallowed to leave the guarded pen outside of the Bank of England included accredited press (Alok Jha is a science and environment correspondent at The Guardian).

Examples of this sort of news reporting are limitless and citizen journalism will continue to see social networks like Twitter at the forefront of eyewitness accounts on breaking news stories from across the globe. For this reason, we will continue to turn to online for the latest news.

Images by mfilej and treslola.

As well as offering citizen news reporting, twitter is also a great tool for communication with those who we may otherwise have the opportunity to reach. From Ashton Kutcher to the Mayor of London, The X Factor to the United Nations - everyone who is anyone is using twitter to share with the world, 140 characters at a time. And you too can use Twitter to share with them, in fact, it would be inopportune not to.

Let's consider the ways that we could make best use of this dynamic online tool: from tweeting a politician or ambassador to act on pressing issues to sharing petitions and promoting causes - twitter has the power to transform and we, as individuals can provoke transformation.

Tweeting a Treaty, an Oxfam initiative held at the Beekman Hotel, just uptown from the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, was an event that saw international diplomacy and social media collide. Speakers from Avaaz, Witness and Social Change Camp as well as Ambassadors to the UN from both Netherlands and the United Kingdom gathered and shared how they were able to use social media as part of their humanitarian and diplomatic outreach.

Avaaz is a global movement with a simple goal 'to close the gap between the world we have, and the world most people everywhere want'. Brett Soloman spoke of their campaigns which
have seen Avaaz members rapidly responding to calls to demonstrate on urgent humanitarian issues, from petitioning for justice in Guinea to Climate Change demonstrations that saw Gordon Brown agreeing to attend Copenhagen. Avaaz are leading the way when it comes to global humanitarian calls to action.

Bukeni Waruzi from Witness, a website that 'uses video and online technologies to open the eyes of the world to human rights violations', spoke about The Hub. The Hub, he said, is essentially 'a humanitarian youtube', where users are able to watch and upload videos to create global awareness for humanitarian causes or to share their own human rights stories.

UK Ambassador to the United Nations for Multilateral Arms Controls and Disarmament is particularly passionate about twitter as a means to reach an audience that has opted in to the information he is sharing on twitter. In a separate conversation with John Duncan that took place earlier in the week in the United Nations delegates lounge, Ambassador Duncan spoke of the twitter as a very powerful tool with international reach that allowed for the formation of relationships, but not before recommending his Twitter client of choice, Hoot Suite. Duncan said Twitter was 'unlike the press', explaining that it had allowed him to reach '700 people who are articulate and informed and interested in what I want to say'.

John Duncan speaks further on 'digital diplomacy' and his use of social media in the video below.

So how can you make greater use of twitter, right now? The ways are many and varied but why not start by tweeting a petition? David Miliband will meet with Hillary Clinton this Sunday and he needs to persuade her that the United States should support a strong Arms Trade Treaty. You can show your support by clicking the little red button below - tweet your support, click now:

Act.ly is a fantastic tool by which to tweet for change - check it out, tweet your cause and encourage your followers to do so too.

How are you using twitter?

Jamaica's Criminal Underbelly: A Chat with Novelette Grant

2009-10-07T16:16:00.013+01:00

I'm in New York City, sitting across from me in the United Nation's cafeteria is Novelette Grant. Novelette cuts a chic yet bold figure and as she introduces herself there is no mistaking that Grant is a woman on a mission. As Jamaica's Assistant Commissioner of Police, Grant is here to address diplomats at the UN's First committee and explain why it is that an Arms Trade Treaty is so important to Jamaica.

Photographs by fightingtheboss, Radio Capsula.

For most people the most pertinent image of Jamaica is that which was forever cemented in our minds after the release of the 1993 box office hit Cool Runnings: Jamaica as a a pretty island nation, and it is. However, Jamaica is not all dreadlocks and cool vibes - there is a gritty criminal underbelly that is facilitated by the transfer of guns and ammunition into Jamaica.

'Gun crime numbers are horrendous ... a huge percentage of sexual assaults and robberies are accompanied by the use of fire arms' Grant explains, 'Jamaica does not manufacture guns and yet we are on the receiving end of the misuse of fire arms'. Grant goes on to tell me that that weapons intended for military purposes are on the streets, in the hands of criminals and that a staggering 77% of murders are committed by guns.

The dilemma facing Jamaican police is that seizing guns and ammunition from criminals is having little impact on the rate of violent crime, this is due to the continuing flow of illegal arms and ammunition into the country. So where are the guns coming in from? Grant says 'If we knew, we'd stop them'.

After our conversation Novelette Grant addressed diplomats at an Amnesty event, held in the United Nations headquarters, where the question was asked 'How can an Arms Trade Treaty help stop arms fuelling human rights abuses?'.

For Jamaica, the persistent and cyclical nature of the guns trade has so many detrimental effects on the nation: murder and abuse of innocents, facilitation of the narcotics trade and direct economic cost and impact on development. To put a monetary figure on the cost to Jamaica, Grant told delegates, that the cumulative loss to Jamaica since 1960 is about 75% of GDP.

Grant is determined to see a resolution, she explains that her expectations as a police officer are simply that there needs to be proper governance and regulation over the arms trade, just as there is for all other trades. Speaking on the need for an Arms Trade Treaty be put in place, Grant asks delegates '[to] consider that the arms trade is no less important than any other legal trade that criminals are misusing .... we are asking you to come up with the kinds of standards necessary'.

Her argument is simple and befitting, just like all other trades, governance is necessary, there needs to be accountability when it comes to the transfer of guns. Finishing her impassioned address, Grant puts it simply, 'Look at countries like Jamaica and look at the devastation'.

Get involved - tweet your questions or comments on an Arms Trade Treat to @conflictvoice and watch the event at http://www.conflictvoice.org, live streamed from the United Nations at 1.15pm 7/10 New York time.

What does UN Style look like?

2009-10-07T15:36:00.002+01:00

What does one wear to the United Nations headquarters to attend talks on the necessity of an Arms Trade Treaty?

UN Headquarters Daily Outfit Round Up- Day 1: all black skirt and blazer with opaque stockings and grey ankle boots, Day 2: black pants suit with pink and white striped shirt. Middle image taken by Rombo Kins.

At the United Nations, personal style is hardly the key focus, and rightly so, this is not fashion week, there are no paparazzi, though perhaps there should be - what these people are discussing is deserving of page space. With international peacekeeping discussions being held behind every closed door, the attendees at this New York City office tower are more likely to be considering how best to make their case on a world stage, not whether or not the other delegates approve of their choice of top. That being said, you're probably still a little curious, right? So what does style look like at the United Nations?

You may well have guessed, United Nations style is all about the suit. Nothing says business like a smart suit and by and large, suits are the uniform of choice for the international delegates and NGO representatives attending the UN's headquarters in Manhattan. Now, if you're thinking that suits are dowdy and boring, it's time to think again.

Lets think for a moment about Barney Stinson, the name should ring a bell, if it doesn't here is a quick overview to bring you up to speed: Barney is a character on the American sitcom, How I Met Your Mother, and most importantly, unofficial international ambassador of the suit after having coined the term Suit Up! If you've not yet found yourself jumping aboard the Suit Up! revolution, it's time to get across it.

Putting the "legendary" Barney Stinson aside, it is important to take pride in our physical appearance, whether we are a UN ambassador or a MAC sales girl, because first impressions can only be made once. Data from the Harvard Study of Health and Life Quality has found links between physical appearance and self-worth, with people who look good more likely to consider themselves capable and of high self worth (Source). Further, 'psychologists, writers and seminar leaders caution that we only have
from seven to seventeen seconds of interacting with strangers before
they form an opinion of us' (Source).

Another way to consider how your physical appearance can contribute to the impression others have of you is to ensure your appearance does not detract from what you are saying or doing. For example, you may be highly articulate and have a positive contribution to offer, however, you may not be given the opportunity to do so on account of your physical appearance being deemed inappropriate in the given context. In making choices to do with personal appearance we should respect and consider the environment we are placing ourselves in, fisherman pants and a slogan tshirt may work well at Climate Camp but when speaking in front of board level company executives, it's time to suit up - give people what they need to take you seriously, and then blow them away with your real agenda.

Photographs by Springleap.com, treslola.

At first glance, there appears to be an overwhelming sea of greys and black, but upon closer inspection there is an understated attention to detail. Splashes of colour and style are subtly exhibited in the realm of patterned men's ties, smart cuff links and women's bags and shoes. At the United Nations, personal style is in the accessories.

Women are decked out in smart pants suits or skirts accompanied by stockings and a low heeled or flat shoe, a choice that in New York is a smart one in order to tackle the most convenient form of commute, walking. Silk scarves are draped smartly under collars and simple neck chains sit above V neck shirts under blazers. The most outstanding personal style is that of the delegates who have attended in traditional dress, draped long line aqua fabric certainly sets them as stand outs in the sea of suits and it offers a far better introduction than any business card could achieve.

Who says international peacekeeping business can't be chic & stylish? What would you wear to the United Nations?

Behind Closed Doors

2009-10-06T17:31:00.008+01:00

No I'm not talking about Peter Andre's latest musical offering - today I am inside the United Nations headquarters in New York City. It's big, it's secure and I'm still waiting for someone to tell me and my shiny red dell netbook that we really don't belong here and to kindly move along....

Photographs by Fox Fotography.

I am here as part of ConflictVoice, an Oxfam initiative that is taking discussions out from behind the closed doors and into a more accessible realm. ConflictVoice is about encouraging conversation between mates and colleagues as well as between diplomats and officials. We all know that change can only happen when the masses shout loud enough - and to be impassioned we need to be educated and aware - so let's get across it and be part of the progress towards an international, legally binding Arms Trade Treaty (ATT).

"Every day 2000 people die from armed conflict. Since the UN's process towards and arms trade treaty started in 2006, 2,1 million people have died. Unnecessarily. In October, diplomats are meeting again (the UN's first committee on Security and Disarmament) to discuss the next steps. Oxfam, with its partners Amnesty, IANSA and others, are calling for negotiations to start in 2010 with an end date in 2012. We demand a treaty that will stop irresponsible arms transfers fueling conflict, poverty and serious human rights abuses."

It can be really difficult to start conversation like this as it's something that seems so far from home. When we don't see direct consequences in our day to day lives, understanding the scale of impact can be a difficult task. Essentially, an Arms Trade Treaty would prevent the illegal movement of weapons from country to country. The reason an Arms Trade Treaty is necessary is because arms are currently being flowed into countries where they are being used in a way that abuse human rights. This is a nice way of saying that guns are being sold between countries and used to kill and maim people. This is happening every single day.

To break it down even further, this means that American guns could potentially be being used to kill and injure American peacekeepers. By not supporting an international Arms Trade Treaty we are placing our military peacekeepers in harms way - the threat is coming from within and we need to start regulating the arms trade to prevent this.

You can learn more about the unregulated arms trade and what Oxfam is doing here.

Tomorrow Oxfam are launching a report called 'Dying for Action'. This event will be live streamed from Conflict Voice website and will be interactive so if you have a comment or better yet, a question to be put to international diplomats or Oxfam, please tweet it to @conflictvoice and use the hashtag #conflictvoice.

What does Lily Allen have in common with Kofi Annan?

2009-10-03T18:52:00.010+01:00

A belief in climate justice...

Photos by neil365, Devina Pereira, Anirudh Koul.

October 1 marked the international release of an all-star remix of Beds Are Burning. Originally written and performed by Midnight Oil, and now rewritten for the 2009 release; the song is as pertinent in rallying global support and creating passion for political justice today as it was in 1987.

"Music is the universal language, capable of transcending cultures, generations, religions and races. A song or an artist truly has the power to translate a message or a movement more than any politician or world leader can on a global scale.

"This will create a voice for all of us who deserve to have a say leading up to Copenhagen in December. The goal is to draw enough attention to an event that will affect everyone's lives on the planet."

Alexandre Sap, CEO of The:Hours (who assembled the artists and produced the soundtrack, source: media release)

The rerelease of Beds Are Burning saw over 60 celebrities and musicians from across the globe have come together to collaborate, for a game of spot-the-celebrity on a scale not seen since the release of Jimmy Kimmels parody clip, "I'm f*cking Ben Affleck". They did it because they care: about something bigger, something global, something that requires all of us, from wherever we are in the world, to band together, to learn about and act upon. Climate change is inevitable and it is now our responsibility to move towards climate justice. The release of Beds Are Burning is a demonstration of the reach of passion for climate justice, "...the greatest humanitarian crisis facing humankind today", from Fergie to Duran Duran, they're doing it because they care.

TckTckTck, a global alliance of non-government organisations, trade unions and faith groups, are the organisation behind this epic release. They are urging the global community to become climate allies by stepping up and saying "I am ready for our leaders to sign a global deal in Copenhagen that is ambitious, fair and binding". The climate talks to be held in Copenhagen this December offer leaders from across the world an opportunity to join together and make a binding and viable commitment to actively working towards combating climate change.

As well as being a killer track with an impressive video and inspired by a most worthwhile cause, the song is free to download. View the video embedded below or at Time for Climate Justice and if you want to load the song onto your ipod you can download the song here. Be sure to stop by tcktcktck for more information on climate justice and Copenhagen.

What do you think about Beds Are Burning? Has it peaked your interest in Climate Justice?

Copenhagen 101: What's happening at December's Climate Change conference?

2009-09-30T00:04:00.011+01:00

Photos by UN Climate Talks, Net Efekt.

With an overwhelming amount of media attention concentrated around the upcoming climate change talks to be held in Copenhagen, it can be difficult to make head nor tail of the basics - what follows is your guide to the basics of the United Nations Climate Change conference, or COP15, which stands for the 15th Conference of the Parties (the official name of the summit).

What?

COP15 is a two week United Nations conference. It runs from the 7th December 2009 through until the 18th December 2009. The talks are being held to coordinate international action against climate action.

Who attends?

Environment ministers and officials from 192 countries.

Why?

To negotiate ways to combat climate change. Climate change is now widely regarded as inevitable.
For international officials to agree on targets and strategies to "...reduce global warming and to cope with whatever temperature increases are inevitable" (source: UNFCCC).

Quick climate change fact: A recent study by the British Met Office found that if greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced, the global temperature could rise to the extent that we would see major climate climate change by 2060, a year that is within what most would fore-see as within our lifetimes!
Essentially, the aim of COP15 is to sign onto an agreement, regarding climate change, to succeed the Kyoto Protocol and cover the period from the year 2012, going forward.

Kyoto 101: The Kyoto Protocol is an agreement that "set binding targets ... for reducing greenhouse gas emissions" (source: UNFCCC). The commitment period for the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012 and so Copenhagen is a chance for the international leaders to come together and look beyond 2012.

How?

By creating a legally binding agreement that is signed by the attending 192 countries. By accepting a new agreement, a top down approach to tackling climate change is being put in place.

Your key to Copenhagen related jargon

Unlocking the lingo!

UN United Nations
COP15 15th conference of the parties (official name of the summit)
UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
GHG Greenhouse Gas
CO2 Carbon Dioxide

Learn more:

Copenhagen negotiating text: 200 pages to save the world?

Official COP15 Website

The essentials in Copenhagen

What do you want to come out of the Copenhagen Climate talks this December?

Jo Wood Organics: Rock Chick meets Organic Chic

2009-09-29T21:27:00.003+01:00

"Love your planet go organic"

Jo Wood toured the globe for 30 years with the Rolling Stones, now she devotes her time to creating quality organic beauty products.

Inspired by her African heritage and general passion for African culture, Jo's first foray into organic products came in 1989 when she was misdiagnosed with Chrones disease and consequently looked for organic lifestyle products. At this time Jo found that the beauty industry had little in the way of organic offerings and so made the decision to create her own.

From humble beginnings, 2005 was the year that saw Jo launch a "...sophisticated and decadent range". A range that now includes fragrances, bath and body items, gift sets, candles and more. The entire range is certified organic which means the products are better for you and the environment, as organic products do not use chemical ingredients. Everything from the manufacture through to the packaging is considered to ensure the products meet the high standards that allow a brand to be deemed certified organic.

With a commitment to quality products and at price points that are comparable across the beauty product market you can shop safe in the knowledge that Jo Wood's products are a smarter option when it comes to choosing your beauty products.

If that's not enough to convince you that Jo Wood Organics are a smart beauty investment, you can head over to the official website where you are able to 'try before you buy' and request a free sample pack! What's not to love? Click here to learn more.

What Motivates You to Implement Behavioural Change?

2009-09-29T20:46:00.005+01:00

Photos by talicat2000, David Reece

When it comes to learning about new concepts, quitting negative habits or any other altering of existing behaviour, we are faced with a question of motivation. In order to bring about change we must first decide to do so.

Two of the key motivating factors to enabling positive change within our lives are outlined as follows:

Cost to self
Is it easy?
Will it take (more) time?
Does it cost me money?
Do I require re-education or training?

vs

What's in it for me?
Being driven by personal gain - weighing up whether the change is worthwhile given the expected or noted benefits? Benefits could include anything from financial gain, a feeling of self-contentedness and positive feedback from other people.

How does it work for you?
While it is true that these factors need to co-exist, when faced with important decisions, we often find ourselves concentrating more heavily on one factor over the other. Considering these two factors: What do you feel it is that motivates your decisions with regards to personal change? Whether it be quitting a perceivabley negative habit such as smoking; or something more along the lines of educating yourself on how to live a more sustainable lifestyle - is it cost or gain that you find motivating your decisions?

What Makes Us Antipodean?

2009-09-29T00:52:00.003+01:00

Photo by i"SNY!

Australians, New Zealanders, South Africans and Zimbabweans residing in the UK are collectively dubbed Antipodeans, but what is being Antipodean really all about?

While significant research has been conducted into British migration to Australia, the surface has barely been scratched when it comes to exploration of Antipodean migrational behaviour.

Symposium keynote speaker, Professor John Eade of Roehampton University, spoke about the changing face of migration in London, with particular focus on the Polish community. The 1900s saw Poles migrating to London out of opportunistic motivation to improve their societal stance upon return to their home country; the same sort of behaviour we see motivating some Antipodeans today. With London's position as a global city, it offers young professionals the chance to gain experience and seek financial remuneration on a scale not available to them in their home country.

Professor Carl Bridge of Kings College London discussed another key motivation behind Antipodean migration to Britain, one that has been best exemplified by Australians such as Clive James and Barry Humphries; the utilisation of nationality as a foundation upon which to build a career - Australianism as a selling point. He argued, that modern Antipodeans are able to use the positive reputation of their home country to their advantage when exploring opportunities, professional or otherwise, in Britain.

Professor Bridge went on to speak of the culture of institutions that exist in Britain for expats to demonstrate and celebrate their Australianess; from the London AFL to events such as The Church and themed bars like the Walkabout.

The themed pub culture was further explored by Monash University's Dr Simon Sleight. His discussion centred on the concept of 'cultural cringe'. It was prompted by an online discussion condemning Australian themed pubs as cause for national shame, describing those who frequent them as 'bogans' and 'yobbos'.

The contempt amongst some Antipodeans in being associated with institutions such as themed pubs gives rise to the question of why this concept of cultural cringe is apparently on the rise. It was suggested that it may be partly explained by recent changes to UK visa conditions. New rules allow holders of the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Visa (working holiday makers) to once again work for two years rather than one. Highly skilled migrants, on the other hand, now have even greater educational adherences to fulfil. This combination means that a type class gulf between the different kinds of visiting Antipodeans – those seeking adventure and those focusing on their long-term career - is opening up.

The panel discussion identified three key types of intended stay for Antipodean's coming to Britain: those on their Overseas Experience or Working Holiday, those staying for a period of 8 or 9 years with the intention of returning to their home country, and those who come to settle while retaining citizenship in their home country, returning only for holidays.

This categorisation allows identification of the different sub-groups that exist amongst Antipodeans. It confirms that, as with any marginal group within a society, Antipodeans are a diverse collective and their experience is of a varied and forever evolving nature.

The Antipodean Experiences Symposium took place at Australia House on September 3.

Article originally written for and published by Australian Times.

Pete Murray at London's The Borderline

2009-09-26T14:54:00.000+01:00

Photos by Michael Spencer.

Sat in the centre of the stage at London's The Borderline, a harmonica slung about his neck, it's hard to imagine Pete Murray anywhere but here, however, Murray tried his hand at music only after an injury halted his rugby career. Perhaps it is this that endears him to his legion of loyal fans, never having dreamt of super stardom, Murray exudes a comfortable and genuine energy as he converses and interacts with his audience. There is no rehearsed dialogue; there is not even a set list, with the show taking form from crowd prompts, of which there are plenty. Murray introduces Saving Grace, explaining it's "...all about being in a great place in your life, which is right here, right now".

The biggest applause of the night comes after Opportunity, his faux-finale, invoking a sing-along on a magnitude usually reserved for nights around a campfire, even the lads raising their beer filled plastic cups to join in on the chorus. In what was the evening's only show of popstar behaviour, Murray exits the stage at the end of the song. The crowd stays put and continue cheering, having yet to perform his first hit single So Beautiful, they know he'll be back.

A few minutes pass before Murray again takes to the stage to play his encore. As the crowd draws silent, a request from the dark is heard, gently mocking the fangirls that have dictated the evenings set list, the male voice suggests Summer of '69. Murray thanks his audience for their support of him as an independent artist in these parts and tells them he'll be sticking around to sign autographs before closing his set with Please and So Beautiful.

Article originally written for and published by Australian Times.

R.I.F (Rest In Fabulousness) Frankie!

2009-08-27T10:06:00.003+01:00

It's not often I break from the intended editorial and publish administrative posts, however, given the length of the absence of fresh content and the circumstances by which this absence has occurred, I feel it necessary to explain.

It is with sadness and despair that I must inform you of the passing of the much loved laptop that has fuelled Tres Lola for the last year and 3 months. Known affectionately as Frankie to those close to him, he will be very dearly missed. Fabulous until the screen cracking end, I hope you'll all join me in throwing sequined confetti and saying a heartfelt farewell to dear Frankie.

And so, without wanting to sound all too insensitive in my moving on, it is time. While I would love to join the ranks of Justin Long and be able to stand tall and say 'I am a Mac', I fear that Mac ownership may remain elusive for now. Any slightly more recessionista-esque replacement laptop/netbook suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thank you for bearing with me through this period of sporadic publishing. I will be back as soon as I can - in the mean time, while I've got your attention, there is one more thing:

I'm all about balance. Using modern conveniences and enjoying luxuries on occasion. Things such as air travel and computers, using proportionately and in moderation while understanding the importance of being aware of the effect of our consumption and steering away from excess. We all need to band together to embed a greater social consciousness and create a positive shift in the way we consume and behave in our day to day - that's why I'll be spending my weekend at Climate Camp.

I'd love to urge those of you in or around London to get down to Climate Camp too. It's happening all week and it's an amazing opportunity to do something constructive by getting behind an issue that truly matters, while sharing and gaining greater knowledge on what we can do to make practical and positive lifestyle changes. Knowledge is the power we need to create positive change and when it comes to the environment, we only have one chance to get it right.

Learn more about Climate Camp here, and follow the live stream of updates from the Climate Camp site, via twitter.

xo, Kate

Music With Soul: Blue King Brown, The Borderline [Gig Review]

2009-08-13T22:46:00.008+01:00

Image by ceedub13
It's a blustery London evening, but upon stepping into The Borderline in Soho, it could just as likely be a balmy summer evening in the Antipodes. After a seemingly ill-fitting hip hop support act, Blue King Brown, an Australian urban roots outfit, fronted by Natalia Pa'apa'a, took to the stage to rapturous cheers from the crowd, an unpretentious melting pot of straight-from-work types alongside girls and boys in wife-beaters and dreadlocks.

The bands flag, reading 'Positive Movement', flanked the microphone stand, the group filling every corner of the small stage, dressed understatedly with Pa'apa'a's trademark Blade Runner style eye makeup the only notable flourish. What followed was an undeniably captivating blend of reggae, blues and roots fuelled by an outfit equally as passionate for music as they are for social justice.

The anecdotes Pa'apa'a shared in between tracks attested to the groups genuine enthusiasm for the issues that are the backbone of their lyrics. Speaking with the crowd about the groups time spent connecting with indigenous Australian's rural communities and sharing the tribulations faced by traditional land-owners in attaining the right to access their land. Socially conscious and politically driven, Blue King Brown prove able to walk their talk and live their message.

An indisputable highlight of the set came when Pa'apa'a introduced the rest of the crowd and Kiwi bred backing vocalist, Jess, led the women of Blue King Brown in a powerful rendition of Māori Haka chant.

Pa'apa'a closed the set by thanking the crowd for coming together and "celebrating life and music peacefully", a sentiment wholly encapsulating the seamless blend of social awareness and art that Blue King Brown so ardently deliver.

Originally published in the Australian Times, August 11 edition.

For more info on Blue King Brown, see official Blue King Brown website.
Watch Blue King Brown's Stand Up on Youtube.

What do you think of Blue King Brown?

Ethics: The Real Answer to Super Love & Success

2009-08-11T18:27:00.007+01:00

A lot is said about living life to the fullest; as far as making the most of our opportunities, we are quite the entitled generation. We know that we are the captain of our ship, the director of our play, the masters of our destiny. But super confidence in our own infinite potential can only be a positive sentiment, by which to live out our lives, when it is balanced with the question of considering the consequences of our every action.

Sound heavy? It needn't be. Considering the consequences of your actions could be an inbuilt mechanism for you, or perhaps it is something you consider most of the time; whatever the case, taking the time to consider the larger direct and indirect outcomes of your choices is one way to ensure you are being the best person you can be. Achievements in life are not always about being able to tick an item off of your person to-do list for life, some of the greatest achievements can come from developing your emotional self and creating a deep sense of how it is you present to the world.

Images by martapigs and l0ckergn0me.

It is difficult to measure all of the consequence of our actions but one way to attempt this is by consciously asking ourself, "Can my saying/doing this negatively impact anyone else?".

On top of ensuring we do not negatively impact people, we can also consciously look out for opportunities to do good, to any extent, from assisting a colleague, to picking up discarded litter in the street, to offering our time on a charitable project.

Courtesy & Manners;
Start small, keep your manners in check, encourage courtesy and make it common again. Think about this in every part of your day, here are a few places to start:

Consider your actions towards loved ones and strangers alike: in your home, work place, in the street, on the bus, at your coffee shop, on your lunch break, at the grocery store.

Mind your manners: please, thank you, excuse me. Always.

Be aware that we do not all think the same way and as such behaviour that is acceptable to one person, may not be acceptable to you; be sensitive to this. For example, if a tourist is blocking the walking side of the escalators, politely ask them to move over, don't charge at them and knock them aside.

Do not feel that you are more entitled than any other person you encounter. Do not aid stereotypes by strutting by a person in need when you're on your way to your office job in your power suit, for example. Help where & when you can.

Think before you tweet. Tweeting can be impulsive, are you ridiculing someone or being negative? Is this public forum the best and most constructive outlet for your words?

Consume with Social-Consciousness;
Being a good person & making smart behavioural choices need not be limited to your direct actions towards those in what you say or do. Consider the choices you make when you shop. When we do shop, our purchases will have effect, however indirectly you see it to be: on the people involved in the manufacture of the product as well as our environment in your eventual decision of how to discard the product.

In the current climate, one where we are well versed on climate change and ethical injustices occurring in the manufacture of products; we, as consumers, and as intelligent people, should not turn off our social consciousness every time we take a trip to the shops.

We are fortunate that because climate change and social justice is on the agenda, more businesses are helping us out by conducting their businesses ethically. They are giving us options. They are granting us the ability to make better choices. Consumerism no longer needs to be synonymous with waste and unethical behaviour. This is a fabulous thing, because shoes are pretty & designers are continually exciting us with their innovation - living ethically is not about sacrificing this part of our life, it's about making smarter choices: quality, not quantity.

Look at Louise Galvin, her hair care products are reasonably priced, free of the chemicals usually found in similar products and manufactured in a way that is entirely carbon neutral.

The Body Shop prides themselves on supporting community trade, defending human rights, protecting the planet and are against animal testing - all that on top of the fact that they provide high quality beauty products. Read more on The Body Shop's values.

"If business comes with no moral sympathy or honourable code of behaviours, then God help us all." Dame Anita Roddick. Human Rights Activist. Founder of The Body Shop (Source: The Body Shop online)

People Tree fashion offer quality fair trade women's and men's fashion. Click here to check out there stuff online.

How about some seriously fabulous vegan shoes? It's 2009 ladies, and shoes do not need to be made out of leather to offer comfortable, long lasting quality. Two great eco-friendly shoe retailers that are proving ethical fashion need not be pricey & unattractive are Beyond Skin and Bourgeouis Boheme. Check them out, what do you think??

Images by treslola, jovike and venturout.

Some considerations for the next time you hit the shops:

Is it a quality piece that will live in your wardrobe for years and years or will it be tossed aside and see itself in landfill come next season?

Has that lipstick come from a company that tests products on animals?

Have those tights been produced in a factory that subject workers to poor working conditions as a way to achieve cheap manufacture costs?

Is that coffee you're drinking ethically sourced from fair trade farmers?

Is your meat and dairy produce sourced from free range farms?

Take your reusable bag! These little beauties don't just come in handy for doing your weekly grocery shop, save on wasted plastic when buying your jeans & shoes too! Check out AlphabetBags for a stylish & eco-friendly carrier bag option.

Being ethical and conscious about your shopping does not need to be boring or difficult; there is nothing negative about educating yourself and making the choices you know to be right - share your knowledge with your friends - shop local, buy fair trade, use animal-cruelty free, choose ethically manufactured products, buy fresh product with little or no waste packaging, buy vintage, opshop!

It is also difficult to change the way our minds make consumer choices - huge, sudden change can often prove unsustainable. Instead, take it step by step and it, educate yourself, become more aware. Making the ethical choice will soon become second nature, as you quickly consider where the product has come from and how it was manufactured - it's all about small changes, ladies! Check out this article by Green My Style, Can we find eco on Oxford St?

Being Fabulously Successful;
It won't happen if you slay people along the way, it won't happen if you forget to consider that despite your status as leading lady in this show that is your life, you still need the rest of the cast, they're going to see you make this thing happen and they're going to be there at the wrap party.

Image by .laurie., taminator

Awareness is a gift you can grant yourself and it is an infinitely giving gift that will allow you to see ways to greater grow into the type of balanced person you need to be in order to achieve unfathomable personal success. Be it in your career, family life, with friends, travel; you need to achieve balance as success that is gained by negotiating what is best for yourself by sacrificing the needs and desires of others is success that will be shallow and short-lived.

Chase what excites but give your mate a leg up on the way.

Rise to the top, but don't push away the ladder that helped you get there.

Rallying around the concept of super confidence and self love is wondrous, but achieving balance and love of others as well as yourself is even greater.

Measure your good-will and success on your ability to express kindness to those you do not know and without want for anything in return; it is in these virtuous actions, to extend courtesy and kindness without expectation of return of favour, that we can truly assess our strength of character.

Live wondrously, largely, outrageously - but above all, live ethically - acting with love, consideration and balance is something we can all live out, if we choose to.

Big stuff or small stuff - when have you found yourself facing a difficult choice? Perhaps an opportunity that could have been a sure fire get-ahead for you, but at the expense of another? What did you do?

Quality Coffee in London, the Antipodeon Way: Nude Espresso

2009-08-08T00:12:00.006+01:00

Finding quality espresso and service with a smile can be difficult in London. With so much on offer, it is often difficult to sort the good from the bad while managing to avoid outlaying hard-earned pounds on the trial and error of sampling what so often turns out to be dodgy espresso with a side of attitude from a snarky barista. With this in mind, TL is stepping up to the task of doing the coffee trialling hard-yards and has discovered a gem in Nude Espresso.

Walking into Nude Espresso, a coffee house tucked away in a street behind Spitafields markets, the barista looks up from the order she's creating to greet us right away. Decked out in smart modern decor, Nude is a far cry from the hustle bustle atmosphere one is forced to become accustomed to in most London coffee houses.

The menu is clearly set out on a chalkboard beside the counter and includes all the varieties of coffee you have come to expect as well as, impressively, the flat white which tends to be somewhat elusive throughout London. Magnetic letters stuck to the espresso machine suggest trying an iced coffee, after all, the sun is shining and it is 24 degree outside. If you're not after coffee also on offer are a range of juices, wines and beer. In way of food, it's all made fresh on site each day you have a variety of sandwiches and muffins to choose from. Having sampled the white chocolate and raspberry muffin and a blueberry friand, it is apparent that not only is the focus here on a quality blend of espresso but also in ensuring quality and freshness in their food menu - the muffins could be described as nothing short of delectable. A brunch menu to include eggs Benedict is in the works, so stay tuned for that.

Priding themselves doing simple things well: all of the details are meticulous, right down to coffee art on the crème of the flat white. Nude knows good coffee and understands that the experience is in the details. Nude if the perfect stop for anyone (particularly Aussies and Kiwis, who will appreciate a touch of home) desperately longing for a coffee house that offers a first-rate espresso. Nude will restore your faith in London's ability to deliver that sought after mix of atmosphere, friendly staff and amazing coffee.

Website: www.nudeespresso.com
Location: 26 Hanbury Street
Hours: Monday to Friday 7.30am - 6pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am - 6pm.

Have you got a favourite London coffee shop? Not from London? What makes you go back to a particular coffee house?

14 Items To Enhance Your Daily Style

2009-08-05T19:08:00.005+01:00

1. Patent heels; instant height & glam, as well as a way to add a touch of femininity to an what would perhaps otherwise be a rather androgynous outfit.

2. Frilly knickers; so you have to hand wash these pretty delicate things rather than chucking them on cycle with the rest of your machine washables, but these pretty knickers are so lovely you'll give yourself that extra shot of confidence just from acknowledging how fabulous they make you feel.

3. Waistcoat; it is a sure fire way to take your tshirt & pant combo from casual to office wear but why not throw on a waist coat over your tshirt and pair with jeans for a great dressed-casual but looking totally-on kind of a look?

Images by .craig, emmar.

4. Bow; in your hair, on your shirt, pinned to your bag. A bow is the perfect way to add quirky cuteness to a more classic look. Louloulovesyou.co.uk is great for bows.

5. Back Seamed Stockings; yes they may be a little difficult to get straight, but they are so worth it for achieving that minxy retro secretary style.

6. Blush; look alive! Give your cheeks a touch of colour, hit up your local makeup counter & find the right shade to give your cheeks that little extra glow.

7. Brooch; hit up local vintage and opshops to find a selection of kitsch old-lady style brooches and add an instant alternate focal point for your next outfit.

8. Scarf; in your hair, around your neck, as a belt, wrapped around your wrist - plain pashmina or patterned silk. Add a bit of colour & style with a fancy scarf.

9. Bubble wand; why let the under 10's have all the fun?

Images by Gabriela Camerotti, Idhren, treslola.

10. Watch neckchain; vintage-esqe & gorgeous, let this piece be worn as a necklace & truly add to your outfit as an accessory rather than a merely functional time piece.

11. Tutu tulle skirt; this delightfully OTT piece should not simply be reserved for the likes of Ms Bradshaw. Invest in a big tulle skirt, dress it up with a well-made corset & boyfriend blazer or down with a band tshirt & biker boots.

12. Parasol; channel high-society glam of days gone by & frolic about under the shade of an oriental inspired parasol.

13. Amazing hair; cut it off, curl it up, colour it, accessorise it. Work it and let your hair become your greatest accessory.

14. Fragrance; search department store counters and luxury boutiques to find an amazing signature scent. Try mens fragrances too, they may be just the fragrance you've been searching for.

What's your favourite way to add a little pizazz to your everyday wear?

Living Up To The Hype: Florence Welch

2009-08-03T19:39:00.005+01:00

Florence Welch grew up in South London and attended Camberwell Arts College before finding epic success and being thrust into the spotlight as vocalist, leading lady and band name sake of Florence + the Machine. Florence has been compared to Kate Bush as well as having been hyped as one of the biggest acts of 2009, winning the Critics Choice award at the Brits; and with such stratospheric success in the first half of '09, one can hardly argue with the fact that Florence Welch is a force to be reckoned with in the UK pop scene.

Photo by florenceandthemachine

Lungs is the hotly anticipated debut album from Florence + the Machine and includes singles Kiss With A Fist, Dog Days Are Over and Rabbit Heart (Raise It Up) as well as a cover of Candi Staton's You've Got The Love.

When taking to the stage what you get from Florence (+ the Machine) is a theatrical experience characterised with exhilarating manic energy that brings their album, Lungs, to life in all of it's enchanted glory. Perfectly encapsulating the dark intensity of the lyrics, Florence captivates her audience, transporting them on a journey of twisted angst and euphoric highs typified in her impressive vocals; building up to epic frenzied crescendos before mellowing, all the time seducing her audience with her blissful intensity. Not one to miss, find out when Florence is performing near you here.

Watch Florence + the Machine - Drumming Song

For more information on Florence + the Machine including tour dates, media store and Biography stop by the official Florence + the Machine website.

What do you think of Florence?

Growing Hair Out Gracefully

2009-07-30T22:06:00.003+01:00

There is only one down side to sporting an edgy short-do and that's growing it out when you decide to revert back to long luscious locks instead. There are a few ways to ensure you keep your hair in top condition and looking flattering while it is at that often difficult in-between length.

Photo by FRESHiAMATL

Regular trims: so you want your length back? This doesn't mean you should forgo a regular trim. By maintaining a regular hair appointment you will be ensuring your hair is rid of any split-ends that can cause frizz and damage your hair. A regular trim will keep your hair in top condition, meaning you won't lose unnecessary length when you do go for your hair cuts.

Condition & Treat: keep your hair looking its best by using a hot oil treatment from time to time and more regularly using a salon quality leave-in conditioner; this can lessen frizz and fly-aways for a smoother look and increase shine for healthy looking hair.

Style it up: consider a fringe, try a new colour, use a hot iron to straighten your locks, create bouncy curls by using hot rollers, use a dab of product to create a tousled look; try everything and anything to discover how to get your hair looking its best at each different length. While 'in-between' may not be your ideal length, there will be a way to get your hair looking fabulous no matter what its length. It may be that when your hair is short it looks best flat ironed and with a heavy fringe, but when it's a little longer a more natural lose curl, middle parted and held in place with a simple headband could work better.

What's your top tip for dealing with pesky in-between length hair?

How To Go Forth With Purpose & Tenacity

2009-07-29T22:54:00.004+01:00

When it comes to the completion of tasks such as finding a new job, apartment or quality local nail salon, the initial excitement that comes with turning over a new leaf can often turn into an arduous longing for the search to be over and for stability & routine to recommence. Throughout the process of making an significant life change, it is important to remind ourselves of why we are creating change and that we must persevere through the junk that we will inevitably find ourselves up against in order to reach our ideal end.

Maintaining grace and a strength of character will not only see you reflect an admirable outer self and thus attract like-minded souls; but your emotional self will benefit immensely as your teach yourself the art of overcoming obstacles with confidence and greater resolve. Focusing on actionable will allow you to move past difficult situations; perseverance is what will see you focus and realise that:

Time is the greatest healer and that opportunities come with time

Maintaining focus on what you need to do and how you can go about it means you will be able recognise and seize more opportunities

You mustn't become discouraged when it seems you have missed a golden-opportunity; make peace with the philosophy that it has happened for a reason; maintain perseverance and move forward.

Productive use of time is of ultimate importance; be it that you spend time on practical steps towards your goals or that you use it to focus on creating a more positive frame of mind

There are a number of ways we can persevere against the odds:

Before beginning your search, write down your goals and feelings. Remind yourself of the endless opportunities awaiting you and scrawl down all the positive feelings you experience: excitement, glee, anticipation! Reflect back upon these when things seems without hope. Use it as an inspiration sheet to bring your positive feelings back when you need them the most.

Take regular breaks from the task at hand. Do whatever it takes to remove the process from your thoughts and give your mind a rest. Watch your favourite television program, go for a run, have a coffee with friends.

Remind yourself of the adage, that nothing in life that is worth doing is easy and that anything in life worth doing is worth doing well. And while we are on cheesy cliché lines, how about: whatever doesn't kill you only makes you stronger.

Gain a bit of perspective, look at the situations of others around you and around the world and put your difficulties into perspective. Don't get so caught up in your own situation that you fail to see how solvable it is. You can work it out - of course you can!

When have you had to pull out the emotional big guns & persevere?

Let Negativity Motivate You

2009-07-22T23:35:00.005+01:00

Each day we encounter negativity, it could be something as simple as someone knocking unapologetically into us in the street or something more, such as a clash with a close friend. It is important during trying times to conduct oneself with poise and determination, rather than allowing negativity to infiltrate our demeanour and be passed on in our own actions.

The most productive way to channel any negativity directed at us is to turn it around and find motivation to change our current reality into something more inspiring. Consider how you can remove yourself from the firing line of negativity and ensure you don't endure the same unconstructive energy again. Also recognise how recieving negative energy makes you feel and use this knowledge to be sure that you do not leave those around you feeling drained because of your own behaviour.

Change your current reality. Write a list, make a plan, start at (1), start today.

Move forward and away. Where you are right now might have been wonderful once; but if a relationship or job is causing you any amount of upset, recognise that it may be a sign to say your goodbyes and take your time and energy somewhere new and exciting.

Be better. Use this time of difficulty as a reason to re-evaluate your own demanour and strive for a bit of self-improvement.

Believe in signs & find the good in all situations, despite how negative it may seems at the time. remember that you are always where you are meant to be. It will become clear, so chin up!

Discover what it is that you need to do to shake a negative mood in the first instance - from watching a clip on you tube, calling your mum, enjoying a cold beer with a friend, writing it all in your diary, exercising, baking or planning your weekend.

Social Detox. Methodically cull the negativity energy in its every form!

How do you react when you encounter a difficult person or situation?

Steal His Style: Matt Smith As The 11th Doctor in Doctor Who

2009-07-21T21:53:00.006+01:00

Matt Smith's appointment as the latest actor to take on the role of the Doctor in Doctor Who was controversial from the get-go and the controversy has lingered on with the emergence of the first photographs from Doctor Who's Cardiff based set.

The 11th Doctor
Originally uploaded by jjm3

In what seems to be a continuation of the now established theme of contentiousness that is rife amongst 2009's pop culture offerings; (The 5 night format BBC used in airing Torchwood, Arctic Monkeys 'new direction' as heard in Crying Lightening, Florence Welch's cover of Beyonce's Halo, Britney's dubious lyrics in If You Seek Amy, Lady Gaga's outfits, Bruno... in general); Matt Smith's aesthetic has stirred up love-it-or-hate-it style frenzied discussion amongst fans and media alike.

The first glimpse at the stylistic direction of Matt Smith's incarnation of the Doctor illustrates a look that has been described by The Guardian as "...the cross between rookie geography teacher and Hoxton clubkid" (The fashion police on Doctor Who's new outfit, 21 July).

A more positive and arguably a more fitting descriptor lies in the articles reader commentary, one in particular describing the look as "...very fashionable Steam Punk".

The details of this look demonstrate a distinct departure from the direction of Smith's widely-adored predecessor, David Tennant, and consequently clear the way for Smith to carve out a unique characterisation of the Doctor. Love it or hate it, this is the new Who.

Let's take a closer look at Matt Smith's throwback geek chic and steal his style.

Doctor Who by Tres Lola featuring Marc by Marc Jacobs watches

What Can I Do?

2009-07-20T18:24:00.006+01:00

Our world is such that it is as great as it is tragic. For every incredible part of our existence there is another part that causes us to feel deep despair. The difficulty is in challenging ourselves not to turn a blind eye, to stop believing that there is not enough that can be achieved on an individual level and to start formulating ideas that will take us away from feelings of helplessness and towards the gratification and excitement of creating a positive impact.

Whenever you are faced with a situation that tugs on your heart strings and causes you to feel a sense of despair, the best way to channel these sorts of emotions is to consider actionables. In the same way we can plan our dream future by brainstorming and taking actionable points to formulate a plan to get us where we would like to be, we can do so too for stepping up in other areas.

Asking why social justice issues exist is simply the first step in taking action, we need to move beyond asking why and start considering how we can make things better.

Don't ask what your government / corporation / [insert other authority figure, larger group or institution here] can do - ask yourself what you can do:

Can I donate money?
Can I volunteer time to a local charity or combine an interest in travelling with that of being charitable, eg. teach ESL abroad or use profession in a third world country?
Can I organise an event to spread awareness?
Can I make myself more aware?
Can I purchase cosmetics that do not test on animals?
Can I buy ethically manufactured clothing?
If I need to fly, can I off-set my carbon levels?
Can I encourage my corporation to recycle / donate unused goods to charities?
Can I write an article for my school / college / university / work newspaper about events that broaden the knowledge of those around me?
Can I give my old clothes to charity stores instead of selling them on eBay?
Can I give the $70 I was to spend on a new pair of heels to the Red Cross/Salvation Army/[insert charity of choice here] instead?

Maybe there is only one or two things on that list that you can practically commit to doing, and that is fine! The key here is to recognise that making change starts with the individual, it starts with us, and all change starts small.

It is also important to realise that we don't need to completely reconcile each part of our life. For a practical example: we may work for a huge corporation but be super passionate about the environment. This does not mean that we should quit our job because the company doesn't recycle as best it should and sends senior management on frequent long and short haul flights. It simply means we should do what we can in our personal life to make as big of an impact as possible and when it comes to work, we should see if there is any practical solutions to the ethical clash you may be experiencing - again, taking action is about creating workable plans. If an opportunity exists for you to bring about some level of change at your corporation, perhaps you have found that your reconciliation is not that you should be shunning this un-eco friendly corporation but rather that you should be gently giving them a nudge in the right direction. You are where you are meant to be.

Another example could be of how to make socially responsible consumer choices. While it would be rather difficult to show our disdain towards an increasingly consumeristic society by halting all purchasing, being aware of the great ecological or social justice issues will allow you to make smarter every day choices: fair trade coffee, non-sweatshop clothing, free range egg and meat products.

The same goes for those of us who love our Starbucks, a corporation that has become the poster child for our consumerist society. We don't need to give up our caffeine fix to believe in greater equality, but how about giving as much as you'd spend on your coffee to a charity box. Making change doesn't have to be about sacrificing all of your mini life luxuries but rather about allowing your gratification to ensure you take action to see that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the sort of lifestyle you are able to.

We don't need to commit all of our time to every cause, but we can let a charitable awareness be the underlying basis for how we carry out our lives; we don't need to change our entire lifestyle to be eco-friendly, but small adjustments and smarter choices will help; we do not need to quit our job and volunteer all of our time to make a difference, but if we can sacrifice a few hours a week, that's awesome. You have to first learn to crawl before you can walk and even when you can walk, it takes practise to become a runner.

Consider the barriers to your creating actionable change and make your first plan around how to break down these barriers. If, for instance, we allow ourselves the excuse of being 'too busy', we give ourselves permission to feel indifferent. We all have weeks where we are fully booked - however, to be constantly 'too busy' to do something for someone else is all too indicative of the societal norm and we should embrace challenging this fast paced distracted reaction to charity and replace it with passion for a cause, despite our other commitments, in conjunction with our other commitments.

It's all about prioritising - we are not too busy to care. Doing something charitable might just be the perspective we all need.

What do you care about and what do you do to turn despair into action and action into change?