Congratulations on starting a new career in fashion design! You are following your passion, and betting on yourself to succeed. You may feel excited, overwhelmed, nervous, or all of the above. And that’s okay! To help you get started and feel more prepared, there are several apps you should check out. Lucky for you, we have compiled nine of the best apps to help you as you begin your fashion designer career.
As a fashion designer, keeping up with technology trends is important. Your potential customers, the fashion community, and your creative inspiration can all be found online. Apps have been created to make this easier! Here are a few apps and their descriptions to get you started.
1. Alfred App
The Alfred App, created for Mac, provides a simple, easy way to find your files. While this may not seem revolutionary, it will save you tons of time searching through your files to find what you are looking for.
The app is free to download on your computer, or you can pay for the powerpack which gives you additional capabilities. You will be required to set up your preferences with the app so that a shortcut will take you to the spotlight search page.
Once the app is all set up, you will use the shortcut that you have set up, type in your search term(s), and ta-da there is the file you are looking for!
2. The Matboard
Now that you have your organizational technique down, let’s talk about inspiration. After all, creativity is an area where you thrive!
The Matboard app is similar to Pinterest because it allows you to search, save, and organize work that inspires you. Using this app you can set up mood boards for all of your different projects.
3. Art Authority
The Art Authority app is another inspiration-focused platform. It contains over 100,000 pieces of art including paintings and sculptures. All art on the art authority app is easy to sort through by using specific filters. Get inspired by centuries of art without leaving your computer!
4. Corel Draw
Corel Draw is a design app that allows you to create, save, and edit all of your designs. This intuitive platform is also accessible from any device (computer, phone, tablet) making it convenient to work from anywhere!
Fashion designers typically use this software for sketching or creating mannequin images for designs. You can get a free trial of the app and try it out for yourself before committing to purchasing it.
5. Sketch
Sketch is a relatively new vector graphics editor. Using sketch you can build your own designs, edit them, and easily share with clients or collaborators.
Sketch is a great app if you plan on frequently sharing and working with other parties during your design process. This app allows you to leave comments and share links that others can open without downloading any additional software. The licensing fee for Sketch is a one-time payment of $99.
6. Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator is one of the original creative design programs for fashion designers. The app can be used to generate flat sketches, freehand sketches, or tracing patterns. It is easy to use and very popular among fashion stylists.
Illustrator allows you to make comments and notes on the style design so that the pieces can eventually be put into a tech pack. You can use Adobe Illustrator on Mac or Windows, and you can access a free trial before paying $29.99 a month to use the app.
7. Shopify
Shopify is an e-commerce site perfect for selling your latest and greatest designs. Once you have a product to sell, you can set up your online store. You can personalize the store and easily create functionality to accept payments and track orders.
It is easy to use and it works well with other platforms. If you plan to sell independently, Shopify is a great place to start. You can get a free trial of Shopify before purchasing for $29 a month.
8. Instagram
This may seem like an obvious one, but Instagram can be an essential app for starting your career in fashion. Not only can you use it for inspiration, but also to connect with other talented people. By noticing trends and traffic on Instagram you can better tailor your own designs for the audience of clientele you want to reach. Instagram is also a growing platform for marketing and sales.
You may choose to have a personal Instagram account for your fashion brand, or you can create a page for your business to gain attention for the brand. The best part? It’s free!
9. Business of Fashion
Beyond the technical apps that are available, there are also business and news apps to consider. Staying up-to-date on what other designers are doing around the world and trends in the industry is crucial for your business.
The Business of Fashion app collects all major fashion-related news and information and displays it all in one place. It may not be enough to have great ideas and designs—fashion is also a business. And without knowing what the community and your competition are doing, you may be at a disadvantage.
Fashion trends and technology are constantly evolving, and so you should too! You can register for Business of Fashion for free and get access to five articles a month. If you want complete access, you can pay for the membership which is about $20 a month.
Start Your Fashion Designer Career Today! With your talent and the right tools, you have everything you need to start your fashion designer career.
To get the most out of each of these apps, you can also check out online tutorials to get to know all the useful features they have to offer. Remember that organizational and business apps are just as important as creative and design apps if you want to succeed in the fashion business.
Interested in more articles about fashion and the fashion industry? Check out our other blogs!
Carol Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All the content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
The Corona virus period made millions of people to change their traveling plans. No airplanes, no open borders and a extreme health situation confined everybody at home. Now the situation is getting better and everybody is wondering what to do this summer. It might not be the year to cross the planet to spend summer holidays in a very exotic location. The virus situation has also brought a very tough economic situation and your local businesses have suffered a lot. That is why you should maybe consider to spend your summer holidays not far from home. This will:
Pollute less
Help your local communities
Make you discover unknown wonders
Preserve your country patrimony
For all these reasons, and being based in Switzerland, here are 10 exciting Swiss places to spend your summer holidays this year (and maybe for the incoming years as well).
1- Saint Gallen: Swiss Craftsmanship
Saint Gallen is a Swiss town and the capital of the canton of St. Gallen. It evolved from the hermitage of Saint Gall, founded in the 7th century. Today, it is a large urban agglomeration (with around 167,000 inhabitants in 2019) and represents the center of eastern Switzerland. The town is home of the University of St. Gallen, one of the best business schools in Europe.
The region is beautiful and you can experience Switzerland from a very authentic ambiance. Germany and Austria are not far away and the city of Saint Gallen itself provides beautiful experiences. One of the main points of interest is the Abbey Cathedral. Built-in the 8th century it is a unique architectural style and its library has books from the 9th century! With more than 160’000 books, the library is a fantastic experience to live if you are interested in history and culture.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Eastern Switzerland developed true know-how for embroidery and became an important center of excellence. The textile activity continues and we would advise you to visit the Textile Museum and the Arts museum in the city center. Other activities like the botanical garden, the animal park, and even a zoo are also very interesting to do. Last but not least, you can experience Lake Constance, one of the biggest lakes in Europe representing a natural border between Switzerland and Germany. Click here to learn more about St. Gallen.
Basel: City of Arts
Basel is known for its many internationally renowned museums, ranging from the Kunstmuseum, the first collection of art accessible to the public in Europe (1661), and the largest museum of art in the whole of Switzerland, to the Fondation Beyeler. The University of Basel, Switzerland’s oldest university (founded in 1460), and the city’s centuries-long commitment to humanism, have made Basel a safe haven at times of political unrest in other parts of Europe for such notable people as Erasmus of Rotterdam, the Holbein family, Friedrich Nietzsche, and in the 20th century also Hermann Hesse and Karl Jaspers.
The Basel museums cover a broad and diverse spectrum of collections with a marked concentration in the fine arts. They house numerous holdings of international significance. The over three dozen institutions yield an extraordinarily high density of museums compared to other cities of similar size and draw over one million visitors annually.
By far my preferred museum is the Fondation Beyeler. It has a fantastic collection since it opened on 18th October 1997. It presents 140 works of modern classics, including 23 Picassos! The overall collection of 200 works of classic modernism reflects the views of Hildy and Ernst Beyeler on 20th-century art and highlights features typical of the period from Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent van Gogh to Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Francis Bacon. The paintings appear alongside some 25 objects of tribal art from Africa, Oceania, and Alaska. A third of the exhibition space is reserved for special exhibitions staged to complement the permanent collection.
For the past 700 years, Basel has been famous for one product, Läckerli, a kind of hard gingerbread that was originally only made in the New Year. Now you can buy them anywhere in Switzerland anytime, but a visit to the Läckerli Huus in Basel is always worth it. The cookie is a mixture of honey, nuts, candied fruit, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. In addition, the word “Läckerli” does not exist in another language, but is translated more or less by “small and delicious”. The address: 57 Gerbergasse. You can see more by visiting this website: https://www.basel.com/
Schwyz: Enjoying Central Switzerland
If you are interested in history, you need to visit Central Switzerland at least once. Land of William Tell (the legend) and the place where you can find the Rütli: the famous meadow by the lake of Four cantons in which Switzerland was created.
The Rütli
Central Switzerland is the region of the Alpine foothills geographically the heart and historically the origin of Switzerland, with the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden, Nidwalden, Lucerne, and Zug. If you wish to experience an amazing journey, you can stay in the city of Schwyz and you will see history with your own eyes. Most buildings in Schwyz are listed as a Swiss heritage site of national significance. The entire old city of Schwyz is part of the Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites.There are amazing places to discover while being in Schwyz:
The Bundesbriefmuseum (Museum of the Swiss Charters of Confederation)
The Dominican nuns Convent of St. Peter am Bach, the entire medieval and early modern settlement, the Hermitage and chapel
The Forum der Schweizer Geschichte (Forum of Swiss History)
The Ab Yberg im Grund House, the BethlehemHouse at Reichsstrasse 9
The Ceberg im Feldli house at Theodosiusweg 20
The house at Gotthardstrasse 99 in Ibach
The Grosshus at Strehlgasse 12, the Immenfeld house
The house at Langfeldweg 14 in Kaltbach
The house at Oberschönenbuch 79 in Ibach
The Catholic Parish Church of St. Martin
The Palais Büeler
The Rathaus (Town council house)
The Reding House
The State Archives of Schwyz and the Köplihaus house
The 18th century and the 19th century brought many people to Mountains landscapes. For some people was because of medical reasons, others because living in the mountains or closer to Mountains was an idyllic life, completely translated into the Romantic trend at that time. The end of the 19th century was also a very interesting period in literature as authors like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Felix Mendelssohn, or Lord Byron, gave a romantic vision of the mountain landscape and way of life. At that time tourists started visiting many regions in Switzerland, searching the ideal landscape. From the Bernese Oberland up to the top of Jungfrau, Mountaineering got trendy.
If you are looking for a nice, friendly, and cozy hotel, you can choose the Wysses Rössli Schwyz. Located in the main hauptplatz, you will be amazed by the history of the place. In this beautiful 4 stars Hotel, you will discover a journey between Gastronomy and culture. The first tracks about the Rössli in Schwyz take us to the 17th century when a great fire destroyed almost the entire city of Schwyz, including the Gasthaus zum Rössli. Rebuilt, it crossed the centuries under the possession of different rich families. It was also the place in which several prominent guests decided to stay like the German writer Johann Wolfgang Goethe and General Guisan.
On the way between Schwyz and the famous Lake of Four Cantons (or Lake Luzern), there is the small city of Ibach, the homeland of an amazing success Swiss story: Victorinox. You can visit the factory store and buy the original Swiss Army Knives. By the lake, in Brunnen, you can also visit the Victorinox visitor’s center and even build your own Pocket knife. Please visit the Swiss Tourism website to learn more about the amazing region of Schwyz: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/destinations/schwyz/
Grindelwald: The Jungfrau Region
The famous mountain village of Grindelwald is embedded in a unique Alpine landscape at the foot of the Eiger north face. It is the diversity of the glacier village that makes it so attractive. A wide range of activities and recreational opportunities amidst unspoiled nature is waiting to be discovered. Grindelwald was first mentioned in 1146 as “Grindelwalt” when King Conrad III gave a piece of land to the Interlaken Monastery.
We tend to say that Grindelwald is the open door to the Jungfrau (4,158m) and the Eiger (3,967m) region. Many scenes of the documentary film The Alps were shot in the region of Grindelwald, particularly on the north face of the Eiger. The James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service includes a chase through a skating rink and Christmas festival in Grindelwald. Grindelwald’s mountains were used as the basis for the view of Alderaan in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. Some of the action scenes in The Golden Compass were also shot in Grindelwald. In the 19th century, Richard Wagner, the German composer, spent some time in Grindelwald.
If you are looking for an amazing hotel to experience Grindelwald, one special address: The Boutique Hotel Glacier. This hotel combines over 150 years of Swiss heritage, the history of the lower glacier of Grindelwald, and contemporary sustainable designs. Indulge in the newly remodeled comfort of this boutique hotel in Grindelwald, and start your outdoor adventure with stunning views of the Eiger North Face just outside your window.
Meiringen: Elementary my dear Watson!
Meiringen is famous for the nearby Reichenbach Falls, a spectacular waterfall that was the setting for the final showdown between Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional detective Sherlock Holmes and his nemesis Professor Moriarty. The village is also known for its claim to have been the place where the meringue was first created.
The falls are located in the lower part of the Reichenbachtal, on the Rychenbach, a tributary (from the south bank) of the Aare. They are some 1.5 km (0.93 mi) south of the town of Meiringen, and 25 km (16 mi) east of Interlaken. Politically, the falls are within the municipality of Schattenhalb in the canton of Bern. The falls are made accessible by the Reichenbach Funicular. The lower station is some 20 minutes walk, or a 6-minute bus ride, from Meiringen railway station on the Brünig railway line that connects Interlaken and Lucerne.
In popular literature, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle gave the Grand (or Great) Reichenbach Fall as the location of the final physical altercation between his hero Sherlock Holmes and his greatest foe, the criminal Professor Moriarty in “The Final Problem”. At Meiringen, you can also visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum and get caught in the exciting atmosphere of the novel. You can check more about Meiringen by clicking here: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/destinations/meiringen-hasliberg/
Arosa – The Heart of Grisons
To get to Arosa, we tend to say there are as many turns as there are days in a year. And when you get there, you have the feeling to be in paradise. No matter if it is summer or winter, there is always something to do in Arosa. Whether airy mountain peaks, panoramic routes with panoramic views or remote side valleys – the numerous hiking trails and bike trails make the hearts of sportsmen, families, and connoisseurs beat faster. Many cozy rustic huts or the numerous restaurants on the mountain and in the village invite you to stay. Finally, the crystal-clear mountain lakes and ice-cold mountain streams provide a refreshing cooling. If you are lucky enough to be there for the Swiss national day, you will see an extraordinary firework by the village lake. You can discover more about Arosa by visiting the following website: https://arosalenzerheide.swiss/en/Region/Arosa
Zermatt: Swiss Alpine Experience
The name of Zermatt, as well as that of the Matterhorn itself, derives from the alpine meadows, or matten (in German), in the valley. The name appeared first as Zur Matte (“at the meadow”) and became later Zermatt. It does not appear until 1495 on a map or 1546 in a text but may have been employed long before.
Zermatt is at the foot of Switzerland’s highest peaks. From Monte Rosa (4,634 meters) to the famous Matterhorn (4,478 meters), Zermatt is an amazing city, no matter if it is winter or summer. Hiking, mountain biking, or summer skiing? All of that in the cool and fresh air of the mountains. 38 four thousand-meter peaks can be reached from Zermatt. On tours, by climbing, by crossing, while engaging in snow sports in the highest ski area in the alps. A mountain summer can be experienced and enjoyed in over 100 different ways. One interesting place to stay in is the Riffelalp Resort in Zermatt. You will enjoy an amazing view of the Matterhorn, even from the swimming pool (please note this hotel will not open until December 2020).
Diablerets: Summer mountain freshness
Les Diablerets is a village and ski resort located in the municipality of Ormont-Dessus in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It is surrounded by the Diablerets Massif, its peak (Sommet des Diablerets at 3,210 meters) is the highest point in western Switzerland. It is a very important place for sports. Winter or summer, you will always find different activities to do. The name Diablerets derives from the French name of the devil: “Diable”. In the middle age, people tended to believe that the tremendous mountain rock wall surrounding the village was cursed and dominated by the devil. Many centuries later, Diablerets is a relaxing place to enjoy outdoors with friends and family. No matter if it is for a sportive week or simply a romantic weekend, Diablerets will surprise you.
Skiing and snowboarding until well into the early summer in the glacier ski region of Glacier 3000 offer competition to a wide range of adventure sports: canyoning, hydro speed, paragliding, dirt monster biking (a cross between mountain biking and motorcycling), tyrolienne traversing, or the highest Alpine Coaster (toboggan run on tracks) at the Glacier 3000 mountain station. The «Indiana» fun obstacle course and fixed rope routes round off the activities.
If you are looking for a hotel, The Eurotel Victoria Diablerets. The hotel is ideally located and offers great features like an indoor nice swimming-pool. It is a four-star hotel with 101 rooms, junior suites, and apartments.
Glacier 3000
Lausanne: The Olympic Capital
Lausanne is one of the most exciting cities around the Leman lake. It has been the headquarters for the International Olympic Committee since 1894. Called the Olympic capital, Lausanne is a city with a lot of energy thanks to prestigious educational institutions like EPFL, the Lausanne Ecole Hôtelière, and the university (UNIL). Night-life is intense, the lake shores are beautiful and perfect for relaxing moments. Here are some of the things you can do in Lausanne while spending some days within the city:
The Olympic Museum
The Lausanne’s Cathedral
The Lavaux vineyard region
Leman Lake beaches
The Flon night-life
The natural history museum in Palais de Rumine is a fantastic place, free entry, you can spend hours in the different sections. More recently, Lausanne saw the creation of Aquatis. Considered as the biggest freshwater aquarium in Europe, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a journey on the five continents to discover the main freshwater ecosystems. Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and South America. It is an exceptional journey made of aquarium-vivarium, a hotel, and two restaurants.
If you want to stay in a nice hotel, there are many interesting places to stay inside the Olympic capital. Here is a list of the main hotels, there are many more and you will always find the perfect match to your purse.
Beau-Rivage Palace
Lausanne Palace
Hotel Angleterre & Résidence
Mövenpick Hotel
Château d’Ouchy
Hôtel de la Paix
Alpha-Palmiers by Fassbind
Hotel Victoria
A special hotel I really like is the Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa. Ideally located between the lake and the city center, there is always something happening in this hotel. The restaurants, the spa, and the beautiful rooms are all made to please you and make you spend a fantastic and relaxed moment.
Locarno, The Swiss Mediterranean City
We often consider Switzerland as a small Europe on its own. In the Ticino, the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland, you can experience a true Mediterranean sea ambiance. My preferred city in this region is by far Locarno. The town is known for hosting the Locarno International Film Festival which takes place every year in August and involves open-air screenings at the main square, the Piazza Grande.
In January 2004, the Italian historian Marino Vigano speculated that Locarno’s castle may have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci. In 1342 the Visconti of Milan, for whom it is now named, attacked the castle from both the land and the lakeside and took it. It first came into the hands of the Eidgenossen in 1503. Today, only a fifth of the original structure remains. Only the foundation remains from the original structure.
I can recommend a beautiful hotel in Locarno. It is called the Hotel Villa Orselina. The five-star hotel has a privileged position above Locarno with panoramic views over Lake Maggiore. Just 50 meters from the Madonna del Sasso church, the cable car to Cardada-Cimetta, and the funicular railway which connects Orselina with Locarno. Locarno railway station is only 10 minutes away, while the nearest bus stop is right in front of the hotel.
As you could read on this page, Switzerland is very diversified and has numerous places to visit and you just need to come and discover these hidden treasures. At LuxuryActivist, we wish you a great summer and hopefully, you will be able to spend good times with your family or friends in beautiful places… in Switzerland.
José Amorim Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
Reading Time: 5minutesShe is Brazilian, beautiful and young. Gabriela “Gaby” Machado is definitely the next it-girl in fashion modelling. With only 15 years old she has already 7 years of experience in modelling. She started at the age of 8. If you think she was discovered in the street, in a party or on the beach, you are wrong. She was discovered in… social media. At the age of 8 she was discovered by a Brazilian modelling agency in ORKUT, the brazilian Google social network at that time. This is an interesting fact as more and more models are discovered via their social media presence. Gaby Machado has already a very solid experience and all Brazilian fashion press already know her. She is definitely the next super model. She knows what is required to become a model without compromising who she is. She is photogenic, she “grabs light” like no one at her age. For LuxuryActivist, Gaby Machado kindly accepted an exclusive interview .
LuxuryActivist (LA): You started your career in 2009, is it true? What do you think about the adventure so far? Gaby Machado (GM): Yes, I started in 2009 and so far it has been a great experience because I met different people and different places.
LA: What was your motivation to become a model? GM: It all started with the aim to become one and then in 2009, a modelling agency saw my profile in social media. They proposed to join the agency at no cost and my parents accepted. With 8 years old I was not necessary interested in fashion.
LA: What type of work do you prefer: cat-walking or being photographed? GM: Both, I do not have a preferred one.
LA: What was your preferred contract so far? GM: It was for a beachwear brand. We travelled to Pernambuco and stayed for 4 days. Porto Galinhas is beautiful. My preferred contracts are definitely the ones that require traveling.
LA: What aspect of a modeling career you find the most difficult? And what is the most important quality you need to have? GM: Being photographed for hours is not easy. Several looks and sometimes I stay 12 hours in a photograph session. It is tiring. I get out of home at 04:00 AM in the morning to travel to the shooting session location. It is not easy. Sometimes I wonder if people think I am a machine ah ah ah (laughs!).
LA: Several models are considered under-weight. There is a lot of controversy around this topic. Do you feel any pressure on this? What is your opinion? GM: I do not feel any pressure about being too thin. I eat what I want and I do not get fat. Also, I do not like to eat too much junk food. I naturally like salads and “real” food. My opinion is that we should not be obsessed to loose weight. Each person has his own body-type. We are not all equal. It is true I saw some models doing crazy things to loose weight because of some agency requirements. I do not agree with this. I believe the models’ family should pay attention to this and not allow such behaviors.
LA: Everybody is talking about your similar look as Gisele Bündchen. What do you think about this? GM: I like it. I think it is great to be compared to such an amazing woman. She has an unique shining. Being known outside of my country for my resemblance with Gisele is spectacular news!
LA: Do you use social networks? What is your preferred social network and why? GM: I use a lot WhatsApp to talk to my friends. But my preferred social platform to display my work is Instagram. I can see all the love people have for my work and also I can reach more people.
LA: What advice would you give for young girls if they wish to become a model? GM: To find a good agency and always speak with your parents. Check what kind of work the agency has already done, never pay abusive prices for agency fees (I am talking about kids & teens agencies that are my personal experiences. I do not know how it is on adult agencies). Never send pictures in social media to strangers. Never believe in discussions like enroll in our agency today and you will get to work already next week. Every precaution is important.
LA: what can we wish you for 2017? GM: Wish me a lot of work and that I might meet Gisele one day!
As we can see, being a successful model is not only a beautiful face on a beautiful body. You need personality and intelligence to run your career and keep being true to yourself. Gaby Machado is definitely in the right track. She has the support of her family and friends to remind her who she is and where she comes from. In a world of beauty and glamour, a bit of cleverness is a luxury that everyone should afford.
You can follow her here:
INSTAGRAM:
YOUTUBE:
Boa sorte garota!
José Amorim
Exclusive interview for LuxuryActivist.com. Many thanks to Gaby and specially to her mother Patricia Machado. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
Thierry Mugler is one of the most gifted artists of his generation. He was a tornado in the world of fashion. There was a before and an after Thierry Mugler. He redefined all the standards and took the fashion show to an “out-of-this-world” level. A roadshow called Thierry Mugler Couturissime was created a couple of years ago and is traveling around the world in order to celebrate the iconoclast couturier Thierry Mugler. This summer, the exhibition is installed in Germany at the Munich Kunsthalle.
Thierry Mugler: Couturissime presents 150 haute-couture and prêt-à-porter outfits by a visionary couturier, director, photographer, perfumer, and dancer – almost none of which have ever been exhibited – in addition to accessories, stage costumes, videos, rarely seen sketches, and archival material. Numerous art prints by leading fashion photographers round out the show. From May 25th to August 30th, 2020.
This spectacularly staged retrospective presents the multifaceted work of this visionary couturier, director, photographer, and perfumer. It showcases more than 150 haute couture and prêt-à-porter outfits, stage costumes and accessories, videos, photographs, design sketches, and archival material created between 1977 and 2014. Some 100 works by famous fashion photographers who have staged Mugler’s creations, from Helmut Newton (1920–2004) to David LaChapelle (*1963), round out the exhibition.
With tendencies toward the futuristic, Mugler experimented with avantgarde techniques and materials – including (acrylic) glass, PVC, faux fur, vinyl, latex and chrome. His broad architectural silhouettes have made their mark on the history of fashion. To this day, Mugler continues to influence an entirely new generation of up-and-coming couturiers
“My only measure is excess” – Thierry Mugler
Thierry Mugler: Prodigy And A True Creator.
End of the ’70s, New York and Milan were the coolest places for fashion, and Paris was dying, sinking into the sands of its glorious past. The Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture was deeply looking for a renouveau. At the end of the 80’s it opened its doors to a few talented young gunners and Thierry Mugler was one of them.
During the 1980s and 1990s, Thierry Mugler became an internationally recognized designer, and his collections garnered much commercial success. At the request of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, he completed his first haute couture collection in 1992. In the same year, he launches his signature fragrance: Angel that changed completely the face of perfumery in the world.
Mugler’s creations have been worn by stars like Diana Ross, David Bowie, Lady Gaga, Céline Dion and Beyoncé, and captured on film by masters of fashion photography like Helmut Newton, Ellen von Unwerth, and Pierre et Gilles. With his penchant for theatrical performance, Mugler has created some of the most spectacular fashion shows of his time.
Thierry Mugler: Couturissime, in details.
This exhibition was initiated and produced by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts in collaboration with the Maison Mugler which restored the designer’s heritage couture. The exhibition was curated by Thierry-Maxime Loriot under the direction of Nathalie Bondil, Director and Chief Curator of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. The exhibition contains 8 acts illustrating all the glorious moments of the fashion designer.
ACT I – FUTURISTIC & FEMBOT COUTURE
ACT II – STARS & SPARKLES. STAGING FASHION
ACT III – TOO FUNKY
ACT IV – BELLE DE JOUR | BELLE DE NUIT
ACT V – MACBETH
ACT VI – BEYOND FASHION: MUGLER BEHIND THE LENS
ACT VII – HELMUT NEWTON & MUGLER
ACT VIII – METAMORPHOSES
The Munich Kunsthalle
With around 350,000 visitors every year, the Kunsthalle München is one of Germany’s most prestigious exhibition houses. Located at the heart of Munich, the Kunsthalle stages three large exhibitions a year on a variety of themes. Equipped with state-of-the-art museum technology, the approximately 1,200 m2 exhibition space is a respected platform for artworks representing a variety of genres from painting, sculpture, graphic art, photography and crafts, through to design and fashion. The Kunsthalle München’s diverse programme alternates monographic exhibitions with thematic projects, yet also includes interdisciplinary concepts.
Kunsthalle der Hypo-Kulturstiftung Theatinerstrasse 8 80333 Munich T +49 (0)89 / 22 44 12 kontakt(at)kunsthalle-muc.de https://www.kunsthalle-muc.de
When I used to work with Mr. Mugler, there was one thing that always stroke my attention: the fact that we could permanently see the fire of passion in his eyes. For everything, he brought to the fashion industry, and for all the inspiration he represents for future generations of fashion designers, he deserves this retrospective. If you plan to spend summer in Munich, do not hesitate to visit the Kunsthalle. You will be amazed by this extraordinary restrospective of one of the most gifted fashion creators of all times.
José Amorim Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
Exceptional days require sometimes exceptional gifts. For this year’s fathers’ day, you can honor your dad by offering him a gift he will remember. Anchored in the heart of the Charente region in France, Hennessy spreads its exceptional know-how of more than 250 years of history around the world. The leader in cognac invites you to introduce your father to an incomparable cognac, the Extra Old also called X.O.
Hennessy is a story of artisans. From the vineyards to the bottle finishes, all the craftsmen cultivate a deep sense of pride in what they do. Their passion is humbling. And their mastery of their craft is absolute, for each and every one.
The quality of the eaux-de-vie used in Hennessy cognacs is the domain of the distillery manager. With his team of artisans, he leads the distillation process from top to bottom. From legal compliance to meeting our own strict standards. With in-depth knowledge of the region and the distillation process, tradition is respected, as is innovation.
An emblematic symbol of the Hennessy House, Hennessy X.O is the Original cognac. It has remained unchanged since its creation and with each tasting, it continues to reveal its multiple facets. It was in 1870 that Maurice Hennessy created it for his circle of friends and thus launched a new style of cognac. The X.O is a harmonious blend of over a hundred different eaux-de-vies, from the Cognac region and carefully aged in young barrels in the Hennessy cellars. Deep and powerful, the Eaux-de-vie has the capacity to achieve a significant roundness over time.
The color of X.O, deep and intense amber, as well as notes of mahogany, are indicators of its power. Open and well balanced, the nose is full of rich aromas of black pepper and wild cocoa, sweetened by notes of dried fruit and canned with a delicately spicy hint. On the palate, it is immediately soft and powerful. This cognac is suitable for all occasions, whether tasted dry, with ice cubes, or even cut with a little water – there are no limits to indulging.
When you taste the Hennessy X.O., you are immediately stroke by the sweet notes of candied fruit. It is deep, round and pleases the palate. But the story does not end here. Soon, the heat start increasing. You get the full power of a beautiful eau de vie that has aged in oak barrels. At this stage we feel hints of black pepper wrapped into a dress of chocolate. The chocolate notes continue to grow while a sharp woody vanillic facet bursts into our story. The oak notes will remain for a ver longtime in the palate like a good memory remains in our mind.
In 1947, Gérald de Geoffre designed the first Hennessy X.O. decanter whose distinctive form is still familiar to us today. The design combines gentle curves and a powerful silhouette. It is also a tribute to the pyramid-like forms of the grape bunches that gave birth to the eaux-de-vie.
If you enjoy Hennessy X.O., you definitely need to add ice cubes to it. Water will reveal all the flavors within. Ice makes the greatness of this cognac a never-ending discovery.
For this Father’s day, do make sure your dad gets a fantastic gift that will show how important and precious he is for you.
José Amorim Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only
Nothing makes or breaks an outfit like the way shoes do. Great shoes are an investment in every woman’s wardrobe and careful consideration should be taken before purchasing a pair. The modern woman is a smart buyer. She has identified the value of owning a great pair of shoe that is good for overall foot health and offer value for money. Buying shoes is no longer on impulse but rather after careful analysis of the wardrobe and deciding what shoes favor a majority of the outfits.
When footwear brands design shoes, they do it with style and functionality in mind. This is however not true for high fashion run-ways explaining the existence of eight-inch heels which are loved by those who can comfortably walk in heels. Shoes of whatever design or shape need to serve a purpose in a woman’s closet. No one wants to buy a thousand pairs of shoes to match each outfit they own. This is not only bad for the environment but doesn’t make any economic value hence comes in Italian shoes!
With the current times and trends, Italian shoes have become an addiction to many fashionistas. Italy is known for its long-standing tradition in quality products and the use of authentic materials to manufacture opulent products. It’s a country that has given birth to many legendary Italian shoes designers that are world-renowned, a notable figure being Edgardo Osorio and his brand Aquazzura. This luxury footwear brand is praised as exquisite and timeless shoes catering to women of all ages. There are three fundamental guidelines that Italian shoe manufacturers standby in making sure they produce ornate fashion shoes women love;
USE OF ITALIAN LEATHER
Throughout the centuries, leather has been the primary material for manufacturing Italian shoes; this isn’t to say that other products aren’t in use. Leather has been the preferred option for shoes mainly due to its durability and flexibility. Italian leather, when compared with others, is made to last not forgetting that Italians are very good tanners. Leather is versatile and tear-proof with most abrasions and scratches being easily wiped away. Shoes made from quality leather are sturdy and give that sophisticated appearance. The pores in the leather make this material breathable allowing air to circulate your toes.
IMPECCABLE CRAFTSMANSHIP
Every Italian shoe brand tends to do well and dominate the fashion world. Luxury brands handcraft every shoe making sure to use the highest quality components. The craftsmanship that the shoe masters employ is run from generation to generation. The phrase ‘made in Italy’ isn’t just a slogan thrown casually on Italian products. Thorough research and thoughtfulness are taken in manufacturing these shoes with an emphasis on quality from the start to finish. Shoe brands work hours on end to attain the perfect finishes on shoes often requiring multiple applications of waxes and polishes during the manufacturing process before the final inspection. Every shoe has to offer 110% satisfaction to its consumer.
QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
Quality over quantity is a common phrase used countless times but Italians take it to heart. Many fashionistas admire Italian shoes for their elegance and cutting-edge fashion. Italy produces the kind of shoes that would give any outfit that extra shine and glamour needed to stand out from the crowd. During the manufacture of different parts of a shoe, careful cutting is done and only the best materials are picked for production. For high-performance shoes, the foot silhouette is measured with attention to pressure points to make sure it’s as comfortable as possible. The stitching has to be well done and firm to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Simone Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
Fine dining at the most luxurious restaurants across the globe may come at a price. However, what you get for the high price tags are exceptional dining experiences, which can take you to an underwater culinary experience or to a beautiful castle-like restaurant.
Whether you want to enjoy exclusive getaways from KOALA or wish to try different cuisines from various parts of the world, these following places are not just known as the best travel destinations, but also for their luxury restaurants where you can enjoy tasty courses paired with wines.
France
There are several luxury restaurants in France. One of these is the popular Maison Pic in Drome, France. The 3-star Michelin restaurant is managed by the known Chef Anne-Sophie Pic. Her 9-course menu is worth $375, which frequently includes Mediterranean rouget in saffron broth.
Another luxurious restaurant in France can be found in the city of love, Paris. Whether you’re out on a business lunch or just want to try something spectacular, Plaza Athenee is a work of art restaurant, where diners may sit within the stainless steel shells below the chandeliers made of crystals. The menu focuses on eco-friendly and healthy food. Once you dine in this restaurant, expect to pay around $170 to $228 for just an entrée. For the dessert, the price starts at $52.
Spain
Packed with amazing attractions and countless activities to do, Spain is known for its rich culture and Spanish cuisines. One of the luxury restaurants in Spain is found in Ibiza and popularly known as SubliMotion. This 12-seat luxury restaurant charges more than a thousand dollars for its 20-course dinner.
The restaurant is under the management of Paco Roncero, a Michelin-starred chef, known for offering ultra-sensory experience to all diners. Open during summer season, the restaurant has a menu, which changes yearly. In previous years, diners have enjoyed touches like edible entrance tickets, DIY salad that guests pluck from the table-scape, and shells that show off different kinds of seafood cooked in their juices.
Switzerland
Switzerland is home to countless villages, lakes, and high peaks of the Alps. But, it is also known for its cuisines. One of the best restaurants where you can enjoy a great dining experience is Schloss Schauenstein. It is a luxurious restaurant located in Furstenau, Switzerland. Rated with 3-Michelin stars, it provides a rare dining experience where you can enjoy local cuisines at a luxurious Swiss Castle. Headed by the popular Chef Andreas Caminada, the restaurant’s six-course menu costs $259.
If you want to enjoy a sumptuous French cuisine in Switzerland, another luxury restaurant is Restaurant de l’Hôtel de Ville. This 3-Michelin star restaurant has the most decadent menu option with 11 courses at $400. Diners can enjoy a fillet of muscles and lamb with saffron. The price can go up once you add a bottle of wine.
Japan
Known for its Mt. Fuji, Japan has more things to offer and one of these is their luxurious restaurants. Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama is a luxury restaurant established in 1948, which is known for its amazing surroundings to provide diners a luxurious dining experience worth remembering. It provides a 10-course menu that comprises the best ingredients available. The restaurant’s meticulous attention to detail can be seen in their presentation of cuisines. Usually, a dinner costs $449 and lunch starts at $359.
Another restaurant in Japan known for its expensive menu is Aragawa. Located in Tokyo, this marbled wagyu, particular, the premium Sanda variety, draws beef and meat lovers around the world. The prices may range from $261 to $313 if you order from its prix fixe menu.
Maldives
It’s a dream country for many beach lovers or for those who are looking for a paradise-like destination. But, did you know that one of the most luxurious restaurants in the world is located in Maldives? Popularly known as Ithaa Undersea, it is considered as the first undersea restaurant in the world, which allows you to dine 5m below the ocean’s surface with a panoramic view of the majestic coral garden.
Basically, guests are served with 6-course lunch and dinner menus, which feature a contemporary European cuisine that is matched with fine wine that blends local flavors with Western influences. The meal in this restaurant costs $320. The restaurant can be accessed by the guests of Conrad Rangali, a 5-star resort in Maldives.
New York
Known as the city that never sleeps, New York is also popular for its best restaurants. If you are looking for something luxurious, you can dine at Masa. This Japanese restaurant is located in Manhattan and established by Chef Masa Takayama. It offers a great dining experience that costs $595, which does not include taxes and beverages. The reservations in this restaurant are accepted three weeks prior to dining. Some of the best food in this restaurant includes Kobe beef and truffles.
Per Se is another luxurious restaurant in New York City, wherein diners can enjoy a temple of haute cuisine at $325. However, reservation in this restaurant can be tough, but it is worth the hassle because you will experience the signature oysters and pearls of Thomas Keller with 8 other dishes without any ingredients repeated.
Conclusion
Eating at the most luxurious restaurants may mean paying an expensive price tag, but it’s worth everything as you’ll pay for something that you won’t find from other restaurants. No matter what your preferences when it comes to cuisines, you can be assured that there will always be a perfect luxury restaurant that you will enjoy. Just make sure to do your homework first before you book any of the restaurants mentioned above for you to make the most of your luxurious dining experience.
LA Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
The word whisky is an anglicization of the Classical Gaelic word uisce (or uisge) meaning “water”. Whisky is a strictly regulated spirit worldwide with many classes and types. The typical unifying characteristics of the different classes and types are the fermentation of grains, distillation, and aging in wooden barrels.
There are many ideas around whisky and each one of us has different images. From Cowboys to Scottish highlanders, the world of Whisky is much more complex than you think. If you want to unveil some of its secrets, you need to embark on a journey made of passion, know-how, and pleasure. Here are ten questions about whisky you always wanted to ask and never really dare to do so. It is a nice way to explain certain details and maybe we might convince you to start a new “spiritual” passion.
Question number 1: What is whisky made from?
Whisky is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. Various grains (which may be malted) are used for different varieties, including barley, corn, rye, and wheat. Scotch is made mostly from malted barley.
Malt is a germinated cereal grain that has been dried in a process known as “malting”. The grain is made to germinate by soaking in water and is then halted from germinating further by drying with hot air. Various grains are used for malting. There are a number of different types of equipment that can be used to produce malt. A traditional floor malting germinates the grains in a thin layer on a solid floor, and the grain is manually raked and turned to keep the grains loose and aerated.
Question number 2: How do we obtain whisky? What is the distillation process?
The principals for the distillation of whisky have changed little over the last 200 years. Just three basic ingredients are needed – water, barley, and yeast. Technology now aids production, but traditionally there are five stages to the process – malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, and maturation. There are five steps to obtain a good whisky, here is a quick summary of the process.
Step one: The Malting Everything starts with the raw material, malted barley. The malting is a crucial step as the grains need to be perfectly malted with no humidity and rottenness. Each distiller has its own secret formula, but they all need a type of barley that produces high yields of soluble sugar. The grains are soaked in warm water for 2 or 3 days and then dried on the floor maintained at a constant temperature.
Step two: The Mashing Once the grains went through the malting, they start a new process, called the Mashing. The grains are added to warm water to begin the extraction of the soluble sugars. Water needs to be as pure as possible, generally from a natural source. The liquid combination of malt and water is called the ‘mash’. It is put into a large vessel called a mash tun and stirred for several hours.
Step three: The fermentation! Here the yeast is added and the fermentation begins. The addition of the yeast will initiate the process to transform sugar into alcohol. This process takes normally 48 hours but some distillers are happy to let the fermentation longer in order to create a chosen effect. The liquid at this stage is called ‘wash’ and is low in alcohol strength (between 5-10% ABV), like beer or ale. You could make beer from the liquid at this point, but the difference with whisky is that the liquid is now distilled rather than brewed.
Step four: The distillation Different countries can have different distillation methods. For example, Scotland would distill the wash twice whereas Ireland will distill the wash three times. The stills utilized for the distillation are made in copper and generally, they work in pairs and are heated traditionally with coal but modern distilleries might use gas or steam. For whisky, distillers will use alcohol from the middle of the distillation, also called the heart.
Step five: The maturation When the alcohol is collected, they are put into oak casks and stored at least for a minimum of 3 years. During maturation, the flavors of the spirit combine with natural compounds in the wood cask and this gives the whisky its own characteristic flavor and aroma.
Question number 3: What is the difference between whisky, whiskey, and bourbon?
This is a good question as many people and even media do not always make the difference. First things first. From a product point of view, there are no differences between WHISKY and WHISKEY. It is a language difference. WHISKY is the Scottish way of writing it and WHISKEY is the Irish way of writing it. Both names coming from the Gaelic variants. Therefore, either you pick up the best word you want or if you wish to be on expert mode, you would say a Scottish whiskY and an Irish WhiskEY.
Bourbon is a different game. Here you should never confuse Bourbon and Whisky. Bourbon is a very regulated business since the 19th century. Too many distillers tried to change its nature and propose several alternatives, which came to an and thanks to strict regulation. This regulation is collected within what we call the “Bottle in Bond Act of 1897″. Most of Bourbon production is done in Kentucky. To define Bourbon, you need to have the following mandatory criteria:
It needs to be produced in the United States
The beverage needs to contain at least 51% of Corn
Must be aged in new oak-charred barrels
Must be distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into the barrel at 125 proof.
Must be bottled at no less than 80 proof.
Must not contain any added flavoring, coloring or other additives.
So when you used to watch a good Hollywood Western, cowboys (and cowgirls) drank bourbon and not whisky. In the wild wild west period, bourbon was a cheap, easy to make, good to preserve in the long run. Therefore it became very popular. Cinema made it very popular being the “real man’s beverage”.
There is another designation which is Tennessee Whiskey. This reflects a corn based distillation made in Tennessee USA which is slightly different from Kentucky Bourbon.
Question number 4: Is Scotland the only country producing whisky?
Scotland and Ireland are the most well-known countries producing whisky but you will be surprised to see how many countries have developed specific know-how in Whisky distillation. Please find here the top 12 producers of whisky worldwide.
Australia
Canada
Finland
Germany
India
Ireland
Japan
Scotland
Taiwan
Tasmania
Taiwan
USA
The whisky world market is supposed to grow by 7.6% year on year until 2023 and it represents a true revival. Even countries that you would not even imagine do have whisky distillers. For your reference, Scotland is the biggest producer of whisky in the world. with almost 100 distilleries and more than 700 million liters a year, Scotland overcomes all the other countries. When you do the math, there are 42 bottles of Scotch whisky being exported out of Scotland every second.
Question number 5: I heard there is a Swiss Whisky. Is that true?
Whisky production was forbidden in Switzerland until the 1st of July 1999. Swiss law prohibited the use of staple foods such as grains and potatoes to be used for the purpose of distilling. However, with pressures from the WTO, Switzerland gave up the law which was also used to lower the tariffs on imported spirits. Switzerland is gaining some attention in the whisky world. Some distillers are doing a fantastic job. Even Scottish experts agreed on the fact that Swiss distillers have a true talent in distilling fine spirits. This undoubtedly lies in the long tradition of distilling fruit brandies like Williams and Kirschwasser
This is also come from the fact that Swiss people love whiskey. The annual whiskyconsomption of the country is around 1.9 million liters. As Swiss distillers truly admire the Scottish tradition, they have decided to call this distillation whisky and not whiskey. Here are 3 amazing Swiss whiskies you need to taste at least once in your life:
Appenzeller Säntis Malt This whisky was first distilled in 1999 and since 2003 the distillery only uses barley and grains grown in Switzerland’s mountain areas. In 2010, this whisky was rewarded as whisky of the year by Jim Murray. The whisky is aged in old beer barrels and distinguishes itself for its caramel and honey notes. You can read more here about this Swiss distillery: https://www.saentismalt.com
Holle Single Malt This is Switzerland’s first whisky produced since 1999 by the Bader Family in Lauwil. The whisky is aged in white and red burgundy barrels, which procures special honey and apple-caramel notes. More information about Holle here: https://www.single-malt.ch
Rugenbräu Swiss Highland Single Malt This is one of the newcomers in the whisky distillation sector. Originally from Interlaken, the famous region of the Jungfrau mountain. The specificity of this whisky is that the distillation is aged in white oak sherry barrels. They also have a whisky that is aged on top of the Jungfrau that develops notes od cedarwood and pepper. More information here: https://www.rugenbraeu.ch
Question number 6: Should we drink whisky in a large short glass like in Mad Men?
We all have these images of Don Draper drinking whisky in large short glasses. The famous whisky on the rocks. The question is: Are these glasses the best glasses for whisky tasting? Probably the answer is it depends. Generally the “madmen whisky glass” also known as “old fashioned whisky glass” is the perfect glass to create whisky cocktails. You can easily mix your preferred whisky with other ingredients in order to create amazing aperitif cocktails.
Nevertheless, if you are a true whisky connoisseur and want to enjoy every single facet of your precious whisky, you might want to adopt another shape of glass. Copita style glasses feature a tulip shape with a broad middle and a tapering top. These glasses allow aromas to gather and to be directed to the drinker. The Glencairn glass is widely considered the “official” glass of Scotch whisky. It can comfortably hold around 2 to 4 ounces.
Question number 7: What is the difference between Blended, Single Malt and Single Cask?
The art of whisky distillation is complex, refined and requires a true passion for the product. Multiple labels have developed across the years but the main five are:
Blended
Pure Malt
Single Malt
Single Grain
Single Cask
Blendedwhisky t is generally the product of mixing one or more higher-quality straight or single malt whisky with less expensive spirits and other ingredients. This typically allows for a lower-priced finished product, although expensive “premium” varieties also exist. Blended whiskies are back to the head of trends, especially in the cocktail world thanks to brands like Monkey shoulders.
Pure Malt is a whisky made at 100% of malted barley whereas Single malt is a whisky made at 100% of malted barley as well but from one single distillery. The first denomination do not contain the idea of specific location.
Single grain is a tricky one. Although the word “single” means that the whisky comes from an unique distillery, the denomination “single grain” means that the whisky is not necessary made from malted barley. It can be done with 100% wheat, corn or rye. In case you like whiskies made of barley, you should be careful if you get a bottle of single grain.
Single cask represents one of the most exclusive designations of whisky. Generally, it is dedicated to high premium and exclusive brands. This denomination means a premium class of whisky in which each bottle comes from an individual aging barrel, instead of coming from blending together the contents of various barrels to provide uniformity of color and taste. Japan seems a great connoisseur of Single cask whiskies and many Japanese whisky premium brands only propose Single cask bottles. Brands like Karuizawa have amazing ultra-exclusive single casks that can value between USD 2’500 to USD 8’000.
Question number 8: What is the best way to do a whisky tasting?
Probably the best way to taste a good whisky is to do it in good company. But if you are lucky enough to have an exceptional whisky within your hands, you might want to proceed with a serious whisky tasting. Once you have found the right glass (read above), you start by pouring 2 ounces in your glass. You turn in circles your glass in order to liberate all the flavors of the whisky. Then you take a long and slow breath so that you can experience all facets from the scent.
We advice to taste the whisky in ambient temperature, no ice cubes. Ice is water and water will dilute the whisky taste. Some experts would advice to poor just a few drops of pure water. This will help liberating the heart of olfactory and gustative notes of the whisky. Please make sure you drink your whisky with great responsibility for a pleasant moment rather than a rush. Take your time as whisky can be very complex, especially if you are just starting your passion.
Question number 9: Why certain whiskies have a smoked taste and smell?
Some brands will be renowned for the smoky whisky they will produced. The strong smoked facet tends to be a spectacular signature for Scotch whiskies. Where this scent & flavor comes from? It comes from the whisky manufacturing process. In order to make whisky properly you need to heat the barley in order to stop the germination process (that would convert starches into sugars which later becomes alcohol thanks to the yeast fermentation). The most abundant fuel source for starting a fire to complete that task was peat, and as it burned, its signature smoky embrace washed over the barley, imparting those flavors straight into the grains.
We burn locally sourced peat in our kiln fires as we start to dry the malted barley. pic.twitter.com/LesiafMRRr
Another brand renowned for the smokiness of their whisky is Ardbeg. Considered as one of the most smoked whiskies in the world, Ardbeg represents more than 200 years of know-how based in the Isle of Islay in Scotland. The peat harvest in the isle contains specific elements that will provide the uniqueness of Ardbeg whisky. Some of their creations like the Ardbeg 10 years old or more recently the Ardbeg Blaaack are signature whiskies for the smoked element You can read our full review of Ardbeg whiskies here.
Question number 10: Three whiskies that deserve to be tasted?
The best way to finish this educational article is to go from theory to reality. Please find here three whiskies we would advice you to discover and taste. Get the right glass, the right friends and the perfect moment. Whisky is a generous moment of sharing that you spend with friends and family. Take your time and do not forget to always be responsible with your drinking. It is about discovery and pleasure rather than rush and stress.
Bowmore Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 15 Year People who know Bowmore whiskies, have in mind two important facets: peatiness and sweetness. The first Bowmore distillery was established in the isle of Islay in Scotland in 1779. The distillery utilizes a whole range of the island’s malts to produce its whisky. The 15 years old is a great balance between the strong character of Islay’s Scotch whisky and the sweet notes obtained by three years of final maturation in ex-sherry casks. You need to try. Check the website here: https://www.bowmore.com
Glenmorangie Grand Vintage 1990 Single Malt Whisky This distillery has been capitalizing on its unique recipe for the past two hundred years and nothing can really go wrong with a bottle of Glenmorangie. It was back in 2016 that Glenmorangie released the Vintage 1990. It is by far one of the most prestigious aged whisky of the distillery and has been created for whisky lovers. The Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1990 is very facetted, presenting notes of cinnamon, cumin all wrapped in sweet and deep notes. Visit the brand website here: https://www.glenmorangie.com
Ardbeg Ten Years Old Islay Single Malt This whisky is revered around the world as the peatiest, smokiest, most complex single malt of them all. Yet it does not flaunt the peat; rather it gives way to the natural sweetness of the malt to produce a whisky of perfect balance. Named World Whisky of the Year in 2008. As the taste lengthens and deepens, dry espresso, liquorice root and tarry smoke develop coating the palate with chewy peat oils. You can learn more about this whisky by visiting the brand website: https://www.ardbeg.com
After this worldwide horizon about whisky, I do hope you have a different opinion about this prestigious spirit. We are far away from the high-school’s Cuba libre with J&B. Whisky has gained a more connoisseur, expert audience in the past 5 years. With more than 500 whisky brands in the world, there is maybe an untapped territory for you inside each bottle of the finest whiskies.
José Amorim Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only
It can be difficult to find eco-friendly brands these days, especially if you are a fiend for luxury or designer products. If you invest in something that you later find out is not sustainable and gracious towards the environment, it can make it challenging to enjoy that piece. Luckily, there are brands that will give you the satisfaction of owning luxury items while still having the safest material.
Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher is a designer who thrives on recycled fabrics, organic fibers, and natural dyes. Known for painting in circular brushstrokes, using old textiles or discarded garments, she creates luxurious, minimalist, sustainable womenswear. She also collaborates with environmental conservation initiatives and empowers females through her Eileen Fisher Leadership Institute.
Birch by Helix
Eco-friendly furniture is just as important as any other product, and is easier to find than you think. Birch by Helix is a great option with furniture made of organic material. They are incredibly confident in their business and how they safely make each and every product. Hence the 25 year warranty and 100 night sleep trial they offer for their mattresses.
They use natural latex instead of synthetic latex, which is tapped from plant life and not a blend of latex fibers and fillers. Their mattresses are crafted for more comfort by using lush layers of wool, cotton, and latex that support your body. This brand is definitely very dedicated in staying all natural, and is a wonderful option.
Stella McCartney
This luxurious clothing brand is reshaping the fashion industry. Dedicated to not only giving consumers beautiful pieces of clothing but also set a high bar for sustainability. They are completely animal cruelty free with no fur or leather and use recycled textiles and organic cotton. The quality of the material is extremely high and long lasting, reducing the amount of wasted production.
Beyond Meat
For those of us that enjoy eating meat, sometimes we do not take the time to realize where it is coming from. There are a lot of companies that abuse animals and do not take the time to care about the negative impact they are making in our environment. However, Beyond Meat is, well, beyond that. Based in Los Angeles, the company focuses on creating delicious and plant based meat products that are significantly better for the health of humans and the environment.
Compared to a regular meat patty, a Beyond Burger generates 90% less greenhouse gas emissions and requires 46% less energy. In 2018, they received an Environment Champion of the Earth Award from the United Nations.
Patagonia
A favorite brand from those who find their happy place in the outdoors: Patagonia. The company not only has reliable adventuring equipment and quality clothes but also has their brand centering around keeping the Earth green. One of their core mission statements is “100% For The Planet”. They honor this by building repair centers all over the world to reduce their carbon footprint and designate certain money to environmental groups to preserve the planet. On top of that, they have certain items of clothing pieces that have been made from all of the recycled material.
When you purchase something from Patagonia, you are investing in a premium product. This company is perfect if you are looking to do long traveling trips, are a heavy hiker and like to support sustainable businesses.
TOMS
TOMS have donated over 60 million shoes to children around the world. They even provide clean drinking water, eye services, and safe birth kits for communities in need around the globe. Their shoes and shoe boxes are made with recycled and vegan materials.
Not only are they eco-friendly, their shoes are also very cute and have countless options. When you purchase a pair you feel better about what you are taking home with you.
Lush Cosmetics
Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics is a brand that is an all-natural bath and body brand. We use soap products every single day, but sometimes do not realize the brands we use are not harmful to the environment. Lush is dedicated to practicing eco-friendly routines for all of their packaging or products. Their quality is luxurious enough to make you feel clean about your skin and the planet.
They also always offer free samples when you go into their store so you can experience their value first hand. Their organic mindset has even inspired other beauty brands to make a change and follow suit.
Conclusion Our carbon footprint as an entire world and an individual is astronomical. The importance of reducing this is important in order to keep our environment happy and healthy. If you are looking for brands that are based around keeping an eco friendly mission, these brands are great examples. Not only are there core values in line with helping for a cleaner and safer world, but also have amazing and long lasting tangibles. Do not be hesitant to support these brands and maybe buy some new shoes or taste an incredible meatless burger.
Susan Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
Traveling is a very fun thing for many people across the globe. One of the main issues that many people have when traveling is deciding exactly what should be packed into that tight suitcase. In general, though, when you travel it is certainly a good thing to do so in an eco-friendly manner. There are multiple things that you can purchase in order to travel in such a way. Below you will find 7 must have items for the eco-friend traveler.
1. Straw that is reusable
This might seem like an afterthought but having a reusable straw can save you a ton of headaches. The size of the straw is simply unbeatable and there are a ton of practical ways to use it while drinking. Check out this list for the best reusable straws on the market. In fact, see the next suggestion for its best application!
2. A water bottle and kit that is reusable
This is a must have for anyone traveling. The Go Berkey Kit is a great option here as it is specifically designed for this type of travel. This specific kit will help you purify your water on a long arduous journey. These kits are also quick and efficient and particularly portable for the on the go traveler. One of the worst things that could happen to anyone traveling is getting dehydrated and sick because of the lack of a good clean water supply.
3. A tote bag
This is another easy item to have on hand but it will last a lot longer than a cheap plastic bag. Also, you can get a tote bag with a brand you support and they are reusable for long periods of time. Tote bags are perfect for grocery shopping, especially if you’re doing that frequently. Get ready to customize your own tote bag.
4. Metal or bamboo cutlery
If you have your own silverware, it will cut down on the cheap plastic ware you use from restaurants or drive-thrus. Not only is this eco-friendly, but it also is something you are already comfortable with using. There are a number of good options when it comes to buying cutlery for these trips. These are also nice to have even after your trip is done for things like outdoor picnics or barbecues.
5. Travel mugs that are collapsible
If you are one of the many people who need coffee or tea every morning, having a travel mug that can collapse is essential. This could even be for someone going who isn’t a caffeine person but traveling with a number of people who enjoy the buzz. They will be happy you have decided to pack it when those early morning hikes happen. Here’s a nice list of mugs that are eco-friendly for your next trip.
6. Solid Toiletries
Having the right blend of toiletries is absolutely essential for any trip. There are a number of good options here with solid shampoo, perfume, toothpaste, and conditioner bars. The last thing anyone wants is to get stuck somewhere without any reliable toiletries. These are all also lighter in weight than buying larger bottles. Be sure not to skimp on this category, The Pack Hacker shares full details on this traveling technique.
7. Travel towel
What would a vacation be without a trip to the beach or some fun in the sun? That is why the travel towel is the final item on this list. There are many uses of something like this but here are 9 good options for this last important item. In conclusion, owning each of these 7 items is the bare minimum to planning an eco-friendly vacation. There are many more items to add to the list via a number of other useful resources worth checking out. Make sure to consider where you are going before you plan your purchases and also talk to everyone in your party. Once that is done, get excited for now only an amazing trip but an environmentally friendly one too!
Nichelle Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available Images are for illustration purposes only
