Get your designs/art into a top gallery

This weekend our design brand, ALVA DE LA SELVA DESIGN LAB, is showcasing it´s products at ARTFLOW, one of Costa Rica´s most renowned galleries. For the last couple of years we have kept a close eye on the pieces and they are of great quality and curated beautifully. I won´t lie when I say that it has been one of our targets and now the day has finally arrived. Its freaking awesome.

If you are in Costa Rica, do stop by and visit. We are launching our meditation chair ! and I will be around from this afternoon until sunday evening. There will be music, drinks, talks, a design bazar and of course our exhibition, together with some other of the best designers in the country – and it is all for sale. 😉

Now, how do YOU get your design or art into one of the TOP galleries in your town? This is what has worked for us:

1. ORIGINALITY AND QUALITY

First things first. You need a good, solid, unique, high quality product to showcase. This is MUCH easier said than done. Our designs are filtered from over 200 ideas and approximately 10 full-scale models BEFORE making it to a gallery. It takes time, dedication and a LOT of discipline. You have to love what you do.

My first suggestion is go to fairs, and see what is out there. Make sure you create something of similar or better value. This alone will open many doors.

And please, do NOT copy stuff you see on pintrest! people notice, specially experts and gallery owners – and it could seriously blacklist you.

2. NETWORK

Go into meet up, facebook groups, twitter chats. Join chambers of commerce, associations, conferences, blogs, mailing lists, go to shops, museums, expos . .  be friendly, honest and simply show them what you´ve got. Remember, stay humble, you are not the only one with a good product – and it is not who you know. It is who knows you.

Also, be constant, people need to know what you are about and that you are in it for the long run. Exhibits represent large investments and they don´t want to spend their buck on one-hit-wonders. So also, make sure you produce work constantly.

3. HAVE GREAT BRANDING

Make sure you are on the main social media channels, that your image is consistent and that you post regularly.   Thats it. Did I mention – post regularly?

Also, print some gorgeous business cards and flyers with all your Social details on them – and give them out like it is christmas WHEREVER YOU GO.

4. COLD CALL AND BE PROUD OF YOUR WORK

If your product is GOOD, you will be proud of it, so show it off!  If you don´t believe in your work, nobody will. It really is that simple. Knock doors, galleries, associations, companies with art collections. Don´t be shy. Show people your products every few months. Eventually, if your product is good they will give in.

5. LOOK THE PART (and more importantly) ACT THE PART.

If you are a designer or artist, make sure you give that vibe -and look professional. Look like a successful artist, like somebody that galleries would be happy to introduce to their VIP customers! Don´t show up in rags or pants covered in paint. Trust me, first impressions count a lot more than you give them credit for!

Also, act the part. Be professional, we want you in TOP galleries, and timeliness, professionalism and manners go a long, long way.

. . .  if you want more advice, drop by Artflow Avenida Escazú  this weekend, more than happy to help!!! . . .  and if you are away, contact me on facebook.

May your weekend be a flight of spice!

xxx

Thousand kisses

Di Carolina

Sweter Karen Millen

Dress HelmutLang

Sunglasses Lunettes Kollektion

Sandals Adolfo Dominguez

Accessories Bimba y Lola, Orelia, Independent jewellers.

Get your designs/art into a top gallery

Cómo conseguir que una galería exclusiva exhiba tus diseños / arte

Este fin de semana nuestra compañía de diseño, ALVA DE LA SELVA DESIGN LAB, está exhibiendo sus productos en ARTFLOW, una de las galerías más exclusivas en Costa Rica. Siendo amante del arte, desde que llegamos a Costa Rica, la tengo en la mira. Sus piezas siempre son elegidas muy cuidadosamente y su propuesta siempre es innovadora. No les voy a mentir, estar ahí ha sido una menta que nos propusimos desde hace meses – y lo logramos!!! (YEAH BABY!) Es lo máximo.

 

Si están en Costa Rica y tienen tiempo, pasen a visitarnos. Yo voy a estar por ahí desde hoy en la tarde hasta el domingoo. Va  a haber música, bebidas, un bazar de diseño, y obviamente algunos de los mejores artistas y diseñadores nacionales. (y todo esta a la venta! 😉 )

Y bueno, si estas leyendo este post seguramente quieres saber cómo conseguir que una galería exclusiva exhiba tus diseños / arte. Aquí les van los tips:

1. ORIGINALIDAD Y CALIDAD

Primero lo primero. Necesitas un buen producto que sea único y de excelente calidad. Esto es MUCHO más fácil de decir que de hacer. En nuestro estudio de diseño nuestras ideas se filtran antes de desarrollarse para mantener la originalidad, y cuando hacemos esta selección aproximadamente 1 de cada 100 pasan. Después del desarrollo hacemos aproximadamente  5-10 prototipos de escala completa antes de llegar a un punto ideal de calidad. Tienes que realmente amar lo que haces – pero lo vale.

Mi primera sugerencia es ir a este tipo de eventos y visitar galerías, mira lo que ya existe y prepárate para igualar o mejorar la calidad y originalidad de lo que ves. Esto por si solo te va a abrir muchas puertas.

 

…y por el amor de dios, no copies lo que veas en pintrest!!! todos nos damos cuenta y muchas galerías te ponen en lista negra por plagio. OJO.

2. SOCIALIZA

Inscríbete a meet-ups, grupos de facebook, chats en twitter, cámaras de comercio, asociaciones y ve a tiendas, eventos, ferias, conferencias. . . . Se super amigable, amable y ve con buena actitud a presentarte y a mostrar tus productos a todos lados. De verdad todo esta en la actitud, no importa cuantos éxitos hayamos tenido siempre hay que ser humildes y buscar de colaborar con la otra gente. Siempre hay algo más que ofrecer, todo esta en platicarlo.

Y recuerda que no se trata de quién conozcas, sino quién te conoce a ti y a tus productos.

3. TEN UNA MARCA

Asegúrate de estar en todas las plataformas sociales con una imagen coherente y postea regularmente y muestra lo que haces y cómo te apasiona, la gente quiere ver tu proceso. Busca tener el mismo nombre, la misma foto en todos lados. . . ya mencioné que postees regularmente?

ahh!!… y obviamente ten tarjetas de presentación que vayan con esta misma imagen y repártelas en TODAS partes como si fueran confeti.

4. LLAMA Y MUESTRA ESTAR ORGULLOSO DE TU TRABAJO

Si tu producto es realmente bueno probablemente estes orgulloso de el, así que muéstralo! (recuerda, con humildad). Toca puertas de galerías, asociaciones, museos y compañías multinacionales con colecciones de arte. No seas penos@, hay que enseñar para vender!

De verdad que si tu propuesta es buena, las oportunidades vendrán. Solo hay que mostrar el producto con confianza, a las personas correctas, constantemente.

5. VISTE LA PARTE

Si eres diseñador@ o artista tienes que dar esa vibra – y ser siempre profesional. Vístete como artista de éxito, como alguien que ya expone en galerías en todas partes del mundo y que los dueños de ellas están orgullosos de presentar a sus clientes más VIP.

De verdad no puedo reiterar lo suficiente lo importante que es la primera imagen. No vayan a ir con pantalones llenos de pintura a mostrar su trabajo, hay que vernos y comportarnos lo más profesionales posibles en todo momento. Hay que estar a tiempo y con la mejor actitud y educación por que esto hace una diferencia enooorme y al final, la gente te compra a TI, no solo tu arte ni tus productos.

Si quieres más tips, ve a  Artflow Avenida Escazú este fin de semana! Yo estaré ahí para contestar tus preguntas!

Ahí nos vemos!! y que este fin de semana sea flight of spice!

xxx

Thousand kisses

Di Carolina

 

Cómo conseguir que una galería exclusiva exhiba tus diseños / arte

How to style a monochrome outfit

I LOVE the new monochrome trend. White and black always make a garment understated yet make such a strong impact, specially in blocks –  but there are a few tricks to keep this look interesting.

Lately I have seen a lot of people and bloggers wear this trend and when it works it looks brilliantly – but I do think you need to know how to match to keep an outfit from becoming boring.  So here is how I try to keep an monochrome outfit chic:

1. Silhouettes and good cuts.

I have often mentioned the importance of a good cut and how the confection is often the price you pay in some of the higher brands. In this case, when you wear white on white, the fit and the shape is key. In my case I chose some wide-leged trousers (love that cut) just long enough to cover some pretty high heels (which makes you look even taller) and a crop top that breaks the all-white look with a touch of skin.

Personally I really like the extra-large minimalistic trends but I don´t think it always fits my body, so I try to do wide cuts that still fit well on shoulders and hips to get the look without feeling like I have borrowed my mother´s clothes.

2. Similar shades on main pieces and an accent colour.

I know a lot of people would disagree, and if you are after a super funky look, I would suggest you play away from this statement – but if you are looking for a well-put-together look do try to get similar shades on your main pieces, if you go with Ivory on the top, stick to Ivory on the bottom, don´t throw in some snow-white pants. It looks fine on accessories, but if you do it with your mains you run the risk of looking like you dressed in the dark.

Then to add that extra touch go for contrast, even if it is on another neutral tone, like I did here with the grey jacket. You can also keep on the monochrome pallet and throw in different textures or contrasting materials.

3. Minimal accessories. 

A minimal look really comes together on the details. If you ask me that is the beauty of it: the understatement of it.

In my case the outfit is very simple, but the shirt has cufflinks, I have a very thin (barely visible chain) and the belt match the shoes in a neutral skintone that blend in. Accessories personalize your outfits so do think them through and sprinkle them on the outfit – but don´t over do them. As Channel once said, take one thing off before you leave the house.

Have fun playing with monochromes!

Thousand kisses xxx

DCR

 

Oooh … And if you are in Costa Rica this weekend, do stop by Avenida Escazú, where my company, ALVA DE LA SELVA DESIGN LAB, will be launching its new MEDITATION LEAF CHAIR. It will be available online for worldwide shipping in the next couple of months! stay tuned

 

Blusa Intermix Online

Pantalones Intermix Online Pants

Saco Massimo Dutti

Lentes Lunettes-Kollection

How to style a monochrome outfit

10 Lessons I learnt on how to pick a new a beauty product. Review of La prairie caviar.

3.5 stars

About a week ago I looked in the mirror after a hot shower, and realized that my skin was looking dry and lifeless,  so I decided to go out and try some new products in hope that they would “stop the clock”. Usually, I go to the dermatologist for this kind of thing, but this time I decided to shop around for myself. This is what I learnt:

What I Wanted.

An amazing miracle cream that would freshen up my tiered skin and make up for my lack of hydration (I have been travelling and not drinking enough water). I pretty much wanted an preventive alternative to botox to mainatin my skin youthful as long as possible. Lets be honest, this is what we all want from anti-aging hydrating beauty products.

I knew it would take some time to see results but I still wanted to give whatever cosmetic I purchased my best shot. I realised that to achieve all this I had to be willing to splurge and be super disciplined to see results.

LESSON 1: KEEP YOUR EXPECTATIONS REALISTIC AND COMMIT TO USING THE PRODUCTS YOU PURCHASE.

Product Claims.

The lady at the cosmetic shop ensured me it was the best all around cream in the market and it provided proven results for unusually good skin toning and hydration for mixed skins. I asked around in several department shops and with a dermatologist and the comments were quite positive all around. The dermatologist I consulted mentioned it was for more damaged skins (this was not my usual dermatologist, as I was travelling) but I fell for the selling points and my priority was getting the promised results so I decided to go for it.

As I wanted to get the full effect the TRIO package was recommended: Face cream, eye cream and serum.

LESSON 2: DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE BUYING.

Price.

Most expensive beauty products I have ever bought – but I got a good deal for them. I got a travel pack for +350. The individual products have a similar size – this one has good value, has a convenient travel size and provides the full treatment. I was happy with my choice, I had paid a fat price for great products – but I still didn´t spent as much as I could have had I bought the individual products.

LESSON 3: DON´T SPLURGE AND GO ALL OUT BEFORE YOU TEST A PRODUCT.

What meets the eye.

The packaging is gorgeous and quite high-end. The eye creaM, face cream and serum come in heavy blue glass bottles and a beautiful blue round box with a gliding lid.

As a designer, I know packaging could improve dramatically for very little cost. I like it but for the price I would have preferred a little travel case or a velvet bag to store my creams in. Also, the spatula falls off from it´s base and its a pain in the butt. Its a good package – I just have very high expectations.

LESSON 4: MAKE SURE YOU ARE GETTING A PRODUCT FOR  WHAT IS INSIDE THE BOTTLE, NOT HOW IT IS PACKAGED.

Consistency and Smell.

The moisturising face cream is not light as it is described in other reviews and for some reason it feels thicker on my skin than when I tried it on the stores.

LESSON 5. ALWAYS TRY FACIAL PRODUCTS ON YOUR FACE.

The cream is thick and rich but very little goes a long way. It spreads beautifully on the skin and it smells incredible! At first I was worried the scent would bother me, but it quickly fades as the skin absorbs it. It feel luxurious and I just love it.

The eye cream is very similar – perhaps a bit thicker even. Very, very little is needed. This could last me for a while.

The serum is heavier than most serums, less scented than the creams and spreads very well. As I layer them I feel my skin absorb the creams immediately. The feel it is a little greasy the first few days but soon I find the perfect dose for me.

LESSON 6: WHEN IT COMES TO BEAUTY PRODUCTS, LESS IS MORE.

Results.

Day 1 -5

I applied the eyecream-serum-and-cream after my daily cleansing routine (I will write a post about my routine soon) and just before my tinted sunblock. It feels very thick and greasy – I feel shiny and a bit uncomfortable. By the third or fourth day I discover half a spatula of the face cream is more than enough.

My skin feels very hydrated and I love the smell.

Week 5 – 15

The product has begun to give results. I am very constant and apply the whole routine every night and the hydrating cream in smaller quantities in the morning. It was originally recommended I use the whole kit twice a day but I found my sking did not need it. I like a clean-feel throughout the day and reapply sunblock constantly so it is just easier not to load up on the morning.

Every other night I apply the creams and then use my NU-SKIN electric roller. The results are brilliant. I feel my cheeks have toned up a bit and my eyes don´t look so tiered. Also, I tend to get slight dents under my eyes and they are beginning to disappear! . . . although to be honest, the cream stings a bit when I put it around the eyes.

Towards the end of the week I have developed a little rash around the eyes. Just a bit of redness and little bumps around the lid and under the eyes. I discontinue the eye cream, after contacting my usual dermatologist,  but I did so reluctantly because I LIKE the results. I continue to use the other products twice a day with no side effects.

LESSON 7: LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. IF IT DOESNT LIKE A PRODUCT, DISCONTINUE USE IMMEDIATELY AND GO SEE A DOCTOR. HEALTH OVER BEAUTY ANYDAY.

Days 15 -20

Towards the end of the week I begin to PMS – I ALWAYS break out a bit before that time of the month but this time the breakout is stronger than other times. It happens on my cheeks and on my forehead – which means it is not entirely hormonal. . . Admittedly I cannot blame this on the cream because since I have been travelling my diet has not exactly ben fat free, I have not drank enough water or exercised/sweated toxins as much as I usually do (It is harder to do cardio, so I stick to yoga) – but I am still considering that La prairie kit had something to do with this.

LESSON 8: WHEN YOU INCORPORATE A NEW PRODUCT TO YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE, MAKE SURE YOU MONITOR ANY CHANGES.

 

Conclusions.

I usually give a product 3-4 weeks before I decide if I like it.

The serum-cream routine I have continued to use has definitely hydrated and toned up my skin quite a bit. It works brilliantly with the nu-skin. I have found the perfect quantities to apply and have found that giving a few minutes before applying the sunblock really helps – but I rarely have time for that, so it is a bit inconvenient.

Whereas I love the results and really like the cream I have to admit I feel it is a bit too thick for me and have begun to understand why the dermatologist said it was for older skin. I don´t think I need so much.

LESSON 9: ALWAYS LISTEN TO THE PROS.

PROS

I LOVE the results of the cream. It definitely does what it says on the box,

CONS

I think its simply too thick for me and although they sell it for all type of skin and as preventive I really do believe it is better suited for older skins. (see lesson no.2).

It is very expensive.

I am allergic to the eye cream I cannot use it, I am not sure what triggered this – I have never had this reaction before. All other products and routine have remained the same, it is a very specific area, and the rash went away as soon as I discontinued the eye-cream.

I am very upset about the investment and have decided to not buy any product my usual dermatologist does not recommend.

OVERALL

If you are 40+ and are looking for a pick-me-up for your skin and have about $400 usd to spare or want to invest in a luxurious, rich caviar cream for your skin – I highly recommend getting the TRIO. I really do think they work better together. It works FABULOUSLY with a bit of electric therapy like NU-SKIN. I would also try dermarollers before applying if your skin is very dry. It is a great hydrating cream and definetly tonnes up – long term I believe it could be a good anti-aging preventive cream.

I would be cautious with skins prone to acne and not recommend it for people who are oversensitive to scented products. Overall a great product but it is not for everybody.

LESSON 10: STICK TO PRODUCTS THAT ARE RIGHT FOR YOUR SKIN AND WHEN IN DOUBT, ASK THE EXPERTS.

—–

 

Ingredients

Water, Cyclomethicone, Octyldodecyl Octyldodecanoate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Trifluoromethyl C1-4 Alkyl Dimethicone, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Polyacrylamide, Dimethicone, Behenyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Algae Extract, Malt Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Lactobacillus Ferment, Polyglucuronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Ulva Lactuca Extract, Glycine, Arginine, Methionine, Caviar Extract, Polysilicone-11, Glyceryl Stearate, Petrolatum, Steareth-2, Butylene Glycol, Saxifraga Sarmentosa Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Morus Nigra (Mulberry) Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycoproteins, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Retinyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ethoxydiglycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Ascophyllum Nodosum (Algae) Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Lactic Acid, Laureth-7, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, BHT, Triethanolamine, Phospholipids, Mica, Fragrance, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Eugenol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Farnesol, Citral, Sodium Sulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, Potassium Sorbate, Diazolidinyl Urea, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Yellow 5

 

10 Lessons I learnt on how to pick a new a beauty product. Review of La prairie caviar.

Una Noche Única "The Last Night Of The Proms" en Londres

Hace una semana tuve la oportunidad de ir a “The Last night of the proms” en el  Royal Alber Hall en Londres. Para aquellos que no esten familiarizados con esto, los “Proms” es el festival más grande de música clásica del mundo, es un evento anual en el Reino Unido en el que se dan conciertos en parques y teatros en todo Gran Bretaña. Durante todo el mes que dura el evento, llegan amantes de la música de todo el mundo a disfrutar de conciertos, hacer pic-nics en el parque y, cómo es tradición, ondear las banderas de sus respectivos países al rítmo de música de todo tipo tocada por orquestas. De verdad es algo grande.

Según me han dicho el tema de vestimenta es bastante relajado a pesar del peso cultural y el entusiasmo de los que vamos a los conciertos, inclusive para la última noche que se lleva a cabo en el Royal Albert Hall. Había mucha gente de Jeans con suéteres de banderas, pero en nuestro caso decidimos hacerlo una ocasión especial, después de todo, es el Royal Albert y habíamos conseguido boletos en palco, así que decidimos ir de Gala, como era tradición anteriormente.

Y bueno, considerando que los Ingleses son ultra pulcros y meticulosos con sus trajes no quise quedarme atrás por lo que decidí portar un vestido estructurado de Olga Piedrahita. Lo compré en el último viaje a Colombia, fue amor a primera vista y me enamoré más después de que me dijeron que el print es de las ventanas de la Catedral de Cartagena. Ya sé que pude haber encontrado algo en Londres, pero la verdad no me hubiera dado tiempo con todo el trabajo y agenda que tengo así que salió perfecto – ademas, el vestido resultó ser lo más cómodo del mundo! – lo amé casi tanto como estar en el RAH esa noche. Una experiencia inolvidable y difícil de repetir!

Y bueno, sin más, aquí esta mi reseña en imágenes de esta noche tan especial. Pueden ver más del concierto ( y del vestido) en la BBC.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDSBZRX1V3M

Danielle de Niese – una verdadera Diva.

 

 
 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChFA4PDiZgs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlbEsx08jIk

Dress: Olga Piedrahita

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Chaos leather strap ankle sandal

Accessories: Orelia London

Una Noche Única "The Last Night Of The Proms" en Londres

la prairie caviar - reseña de producto

3.5 stars

What I Wanted.

An amazing miracle cream that would freshen up my tiered skin and make up for my lack of hydration (I have been travelling and not drinking enough water). I pretty much wanted an preventive alternative to botox to mainatin my skin youthful as long as possible. I KNOW its unrealistic, but lets be honest, this is what we all want from anti-aging hydrating beauty products.

I knew it would take some time to see results but I still wanted to give whatever cosmetic I purchased my best shot. I was willing to splurge and be super disciplined.

Product Claims.

The lady at the cosmetic shop ensured me it was the best all around cream in the market and it provided proven results for unusually good skin toning and hydration for mixed skins. I asked around in several department shops and with a dermatologist and the comments were quite positive all around. The dermatologist I consulted mentioned it was for more damaged skins (this was not my usual dermatologist, as I was travelling) but I fell for the selling points and my priority was getting the promised results so I decided to go for it.

As I wanted to get the full effect the TRIO package was recommended: Face cream, eye cream and serum.

Price.

Most expensive beauty products I have ever bought. +350 usd for the samplers package. The individual products have a similar size – this one has good value,has a convenient travel size and provides the full treatment. I was happy with my choice.

What meets the eye.

The packaging is gorgeous and quite high-end. The eyecrea, face cream and serum come in heavy blue glass bottles and a beautiful blue round box with a gliding lid.

As a designer, I know packaging could improve dramatically for very little cost. I like it but for the price I would have preferred a little travel case or a velvet bag to store my creams in. Also, the spatula falls off from it´s base and its a pain in the butt. Its a good package – I just have very high expectations.

Consistency and Smell.

The moisturising face cream is not light as it is described in other reviews and for some reason it feels thicker on my skin than when I tried it on the stores. LESSON No1. ALWAYS TRY FACIAL PRODUCTS ON YOUR FACE.

The cream is thick and rich but very little goes a long way. It spreads beautifully on the skin and it smells incredible! At first I was worried the scent would bother me, but it quickly fades as the skin absorbs it. It feel luxurious and I just love it.

The eye cream is very similar – perhaps a bit thicker even. Very, very little is needed. This could last me for a while.

The serum is heavier than most serums, less scented than the creams and spreads very well. As I layer them I feel my skin absorb the creams immediately. The feel it is a little greasy the first few days but soon I find the perfect dose for me.

Results.

Day 1 -5

I applied the eyecream-serum-and-cream after my daily cleansing routine (I will write a post about my routine soon) and just before my tinted sunblock. It feels very thick and greasy – I feel shiny and a bit uncomfortable. By the third or fourth day I discover half a spatula of the face cream is more than enough.

My skin feels very hydrated and I love the smell.

Week 5 – 15

The product has begun to give results. I am very constant and apply the whole routine every night and the hydrating cream in smaller quantities in the morning. It was originally recommended I use the whole kit twice a day but I found my sking did not need it. I like a clean-feel throughout the day and reapply sunblock constantly so it is just easier not to load up on the morning.

Every other night I apply the creams and then use my NU-SKIN electric roller. The results are brilliant. I feel my cheeks have toned up a bit and my eyes don´t look so tiered. Also, I tend to get slight dents under my eyes and they are beginning to disappear! . . . although to be honest, the cream stings a bit when I put it around the eyes.

Towards the end of the week I have developed a little rash around the eyes. Just a bit of redness and little bumps around the lid and under the eyes. I discontinue the eye cream – but I do so reluctantly because I LIKE the results. I continue to use the other products twice a day with no side effects.

Days 15 -20

Towards the end of the week I begin to PMS – I ALWAYS break out a bit before that time of the month but this time the breakout is stronger than other times. It happens on my cheeks and on my forehead – which means it is not entirely hormonal. . . Admittedly I cannot blame this on the cream because since I have been travelling my diet has not exactly ben fat free, I have not drank enough water or exercised/sweated toxins as much as I usually do (It is harder to do cardio, so I stick to yoga) – but I am still considering that La prairie kit had something to do with this.

 

Conclusions.

I usually give a product 3-4 weeks before I decide if I like it.

The serum-cream routine I have continued to use has definitely hydrated and toned up my skin quite a bit. It works brilliantly with the nu-skin. I have found the perfect quantities to apply and have found that giving a few minutes before applying the sunblock really helps – but I rarely have time for that, so it is a bit inconvenient.

Whereas I love the results and really like the cream I have to admit I feel it is a bit too thick for me and have begun to understand why the dermatologist said it was for older skin. I don´t think I need so much. LESSON No2. ALWAYS LISTEN TO THE PROS.

PROS

I LOVE the results of the cream. It definitely does what it says on the box,

CONS

I think its simply too thick for me and although they sell it for all type of skin and as preventive I really do believe it is better suited for older skins. (see lesson no.2).

It is very expensive.

I am allergic to the eye cream I cannot use it, I am not sure what triggered this – I have never had this reaction before. All other products and routine have remained the same, it is a very specific area, and the rash went away as soon as I discontinued the eye-cream.

I am very upset about the investment and have decided to not buy any product my usual dermatologist does not recommend.

OVERALL

If you are 40+ and are looking for a pick-me-up for your skin and have about $400 usd to spare or want to invest in a luxurious, rich caviar cream for your skin – I highly recommend getting the TRIO. I really do think they work better together. It works FABULOUSLY with a bit of electric therapy like NU-SKIN. I would also try dermarollers before applying if your skin is very dry. It is a great hydrating cream and definetly tonnes up – long term I believe it could be a good anti-aging preventive cream.

I would be cautious with skins prone to acne and not recommend it for people who are oversensitive to scented products. Overall a great product but it is not for everybody.

—–

 

Ingredients

Water, Cyclomethicone, Octyldodecyl Octyldodecanoate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Trifluoromethyl C1-4 Alkyl Dimethicone, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Polyacrylamide, Dimethicone, Behenyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Algae Extract, Malt Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Lactobacillus Ferment, Polyglucuronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Ulva Lactuca Extract, Glycine, Arginine, Methionine, Caviar Extract, Polysilicone-11, Glyceryl Stearate, Petrolatum, Steareth-2, Butylene Glycol, Saxifraga Sarmentosa Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Morus Nigra (Mulberry) Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycoproteins, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Retinyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ethoxydiglycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Ascophyllum Nodosum (Algae) Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Lactic Acid, Laureth-7, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, BHT, Triethanolamine, Phospholipids, Mica, Fragrance, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Eugenol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Farnesol, Citral, Sodium Sulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, Potassium Sorbate, Diazolidinyl Urea, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Yellow 5

 

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The key pieces for this fall - The trends that are crossing borders in 2015

The key pieces for this fall – The trends that are crossing borders 

There is a lot to pick from this season . . . or maybe it feels like so because in the last month I have been in shops in 4 countries and the supply of different designs is endless. There is so much, in fact, that I ended up not buying anything!! which is ridiculous, I know. . . but after seeing it all, I have a very clear idea of what I am after – and I think I´ll have to order it online because I probably wont find it in Costa Rica.

It is true that across the board you have a cohesive sense of trends and that chain shops like Zara or Mango have most of the same pieces – but the truth is that every country has a different flavour and that the way people style the same piece is unique to their environment and each individual. If you ask me, people-watching is the best bit about travelling. It´s an injection of fashion inspiration, it is addictive and I am completly in love with it!

Having said that, there are a few trends and garments that seem to predominate internationally this fall, and I have done the research so you don´t have to:

Distinctive Colours and Patterns for fall 2015

1. Squared – Checkered in similar tones with contrasting accents


2. Black and White in block and patterns


3. Burnt Red, Shedron and Burgundy


4. Emerald Green (specially in northern countries)


5. Nudes


6. Greys

Accessories of the Season

1. Black Leather ankle boots


2. V -point loafers with tassels, suede and leather textures.


3. Black and White sandals pumps and lace-ups.


4. Hats.


5. Rounded shoulder bags in leather earthy tones.


6. Stacked up minimal rings and necklaces


7. Uneven earrings and ear cuffs


8. Oversized, minimalistic sweaters and Coats


9. Fur.

Predominating General Trends 

1. Minimalistic block colours


2. Masculine look with a sexy edge (feminine accesories or clevages)


3. 70´s Bohemian Rhapsody

As we go into the fashion weeks and begin to see what is out there we may seem to want it all – but a girl has got to pick her battles. In my case, as usual, I am faced with an identity crisis. I live in Costa Rica (fairly warm weather) but work 50% of the time in Mexico (slightly colder) and have to travel back and for to the UK and Europe a few times towards the end of the year (freezing). So, my fashion-investment pieces need to work in all locations (or I need to triple my income – fast).

For this reason and the variety of environments i move in (from designer artistic gatherings to high-end business meetings) I tend to buy block colour, solid and classic pieces and add the accents with more accessible accessories and shoes – this year I am craving a bit of a change. I aim for more fun pieces over an elegant classic look. It has to be warm and as usual, quite versatile.  So here it is, my dream edited selection of key pieces for the season.

 

All these you can find at mayor stores such as Selfridges, Harrods or Matches.com, Net-a-porter, LuisaviaRoma.com  – And of course, similar pieces for all budgets will be available in shops like Zara, Mango, Asos, TopShop etc. For example:

boot trousers

Midi and long skirts

 For bohemian dresses I personally prefer RAPSODIA 

Mango grey coat  

 Wide Leg Tailored Pants

Suits

 

 Asos Shoes 

Top Shop Bag 

Chiara´s Shoes and glitter  

 

PERSONALIZING THE LOOK

The key to these pieces is to make them your own.

Personally, after looking through my selection, I find it needs a bit of colour to match my personality. I would add touches of burgundy red, emerald green and golden accessories, maybe yellow here and there – depending on my location, occasion and mood.  I would also recommend mixing textures. It is wonderful to see such rich materials in the shops this season: Lets strategically use the suede, the leather, the velvet, the wools, the fur and the glitter.  They could make a plane black outfit look like a million dollars.

Also, I have found there are about three different shades of red around. In my case I think I look too pale and dull with burgundy, its just not for me. So I try to look for that burnt cherry red colour (I have already bought the Dior nail polish and lipstick. Im in love with this shade.) I would recommend brunettes with slightly olive undertones to their skin to take this approach – or to invest in a colour test with a professional stylist – (I will write a post on that later).

Also experiment with the mix, with how you tie your belt, with accessories. There are no rules and if somethings doesn´t work – it does not matter! You always have tomorrow to give it another go. My one piece of advice is to always try to be loyal to your lifestyle, your personality and your body shape. Once you go through all the things available in shops and pick your key pieces, you cannot go wrong.

 

So with that, I end my fall wish list . . .  to be updated when winter approaches. I hope it inspires your wardrobe!

And if it all fails, and you don´t know where to start or have a set budget just invest in one classic, statement piece like an Isabel Marant or Alexander McQueen Coat, a Burberry Trent, a Louis Vuitton or Yves Saint Laurant bag – or, my favourite, Valentino studded shoes.

XXX

D.C.

What will be your key piece for this Fall?

The key pieces for this fall - The trends that are crossing borders in 2015