JOURNAL

Why buying handmade is good for the soul.   There’s something about buying a handmade item that conjures memories of an older time. A time when blacksmiths would work at their forge amidst sweat and steel; when artists would spend hours applying paint to the canvas; and when dressmakers would hand-stitch each garment with the softest of fabrics.  These days, with the rise of mass production and ease of buying online, it’s easy to forget the simple joys of buying handmade. However, whether you’re choosing a new outfit, an item for your house or gift for a loved one, selecting...

Stand (or comfortably sit) behind your favourite essential brands when they need you most.  It’s no surprise, our economy is in a state of absolute flux. We can’t leave the house (unless it’s essential) and when we do, most of the things we need aren’t available (that’s right - we’re looking at you Toilet Paper Hoarders).   In times like these, it’s easy to forget the brands and businesses we’ve been following with awe as the survival mode that seems to have gripped the planet kicks in. So how can we, as a likeminded and caring community, support those purpose-driven brands...

Every hat that Nadia Valavanis of BSVII creates comes with a story. Your story. Made with love and inspiration, these bespoke hats are a creative symbol of the purpose and meaning that resides in your inner self.   Name: Constantina || AKA: Nadia || Often found: In my studio || Listening to: Blues || Whilst sipping: Coffee or whiskey || Passionately discussing: My next project or life goals || And working on: HATS!   "A hat is a flag, a shield, a bit of armor, and the badge of femininity. A hat is the difference between wearing clothes and wearing a costume; it's the difference between being...

Living an eco-friendly lifestyle doesn’t require huge changes to your life.   With more and more people becoming aware of our impact on the environment, we’re seeing an increase in articles talking about the ways you can live an eco-friendly lifestyle. However, for many of us, making the switch to an eco-friendly lifestyle can be intimidating and overwhelming. It can sometimes seem like you need to make huge sacrifices if you want to live more sustainably - settling for products that don’t look as nice or work as well. The good news folks is that the opposite is true. With...