Thomas Sabo's Generation Charm Club

From the Babylonians to Queen Victoria, the collecting and wearing of charms to commemorate milestones and honour cherished memories has been one of the most enduring of jewelry styles. When I was at school (alongside the Babylonians, it now feels!) all the coolest of cats in my class had charm bracelets dripping with trinkets; the Eiffel Tower, precious sparkly dogs reminding them of their own… Fast forward just a feeeeew years this chaaarming trend is back with a bang.

Today, Thomas Sabo launches their Generation Charm Club, releasing an abundance of chic, beautifully detailed charms which can easily clip on to our existing Thomas Sabo necklaces and bracelets. I was amazed at the variety available and was excited to pick pieces and that were unique only to me.   

What I really love about these charms is how easily you can switch up the combinations of what you wear, depending on how you feel.  Whether you want to wear just one, or many charms together, or in this maximalist magpie's case, layer up a few chains of differing lengths with several charms together, for a bohemian, 70's feel.  

I was particularly drawn to the more celestial Thomas Sabo charms, immediately gravitating towards the moons, stars and zodiac charms (although, should I really be advertising that I'm a Scorpio?!)  The Vintage Moon and Star pendant, combined with the Star Mother of Pearl pendant reminded me of stargazing on my rooftop back at home in Watamu, Kenya. 

Although I only prefer to wear mostly yellow gold, the current trend is to mix your metals, and I can really see myself embracing this idea through incorporating some silver and rose gold charms.

I obviously had to have a charm of my initial (love me a 'K' anything!) and with a trip to Joshua Tree coming up next month, I feel I might commemorate this with a gold cactus charm... Watch this space! 

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In collaboration with Thomas Sabo
Photography: Ella Sadika
Hair: Taylor Taylor London  
Nails: Sophie Gass

Valentine's Gift List 2018 - For Her

Now, many cynics would have us believe that Valentine’s Day is just another one of those sugar-coated celebrations, designed by Hallmark in an annual bid to make young sweethearts spend their life savings… Bar-Hearts-Bug!  In fact, it is a historical celebration of Saint Valentine’s romantic martyrdom (a 3rd Century Roman priest who, after Emperor Claudius II had outlawed marriage, continued to unite young lovers, eventually being captured executed for doing so...)

So if you innocently, just so happen to leave this page open on your loved one's laptop, no one will judge... You're merely honouring a Saint, dear girl.

"Without Valentine's Day, February would be... well, January."

Above (L-R Clockwise):  Contrast Seam Bow Blouse, Amour Sweater, Silk Eye Mask, Polka Dot Handles Shopper Bag, Baja Deco ID Bracelet, Bobby Lobster Canvas Shopping Bag. 

Above: All you need is Love (*oh, and one of Victoire & Lou’s dreamy, beautifully curated, Valentine’s Gift Boxes... #ItsNotCheesyIfItsFrench)

Above (L-R Clockwise):  Knickers of the Week, Margo Embellished Georgette Midi Dress, Cutout Sequinned Tulle Dress, Bella Silk-satin Pajama Set, Lapis Leavers Lace And Stretch-tulle Triangle Bra.

Above:  Snuggle up and watch a romantic classic (think, 'When Harry Met Sally,' or 'Breakfast At Tiffany's'…) on the star-lit Berkeley rooftop, with Moncler blankets, hot water bottles, and staff serving you luxury winter canapés, chocolates, unlimited mulled wine and champagne… "I'll have what she's having!"  
 

Above (L-R Clockwise):  Gabby Ruffled Lace-trimmed Embroidered Tulle Thong, English Mint & Ginger Lip Care, Gabby Lace-trimmed Embroidered Tulle Suspender Belt, Hot Lips Mini Celebrity Trio, Eau Rose Hair Mist, Gabby Lace-trimmed Embroidered Tulle Underwired Bra.

Above:  Chinti and Parker's latest cashmere collaboration sees 100% of its profits go towards supporting Women for Women International, helping survivors of war living in some of the world's most dangerous places to rebuild their lives. Their three-year training programme equips women to earn money, regain their confidence and actively participate in their communities. Stronger Women = Stronger Nations! 

Above (L-R, Clockwise):  En Passant Eau De Parfum, Heart Printed Midi Dress, Soho Disco Textured-leather Shoulder Bag, Magnolia Eau De Toilette, Crème De La Mer, Super Star Distressed Leopard-print Sneakers.

Above:  "And they call it, Puppy Love..."  100% of the proceeds from this jaw-droppingly beautiful bouquet (a mix of Carpe Diem roses, All for Love roses and beautiful flowering eucalyptus) will go directly to the brilliant Wild at Heart Foundation, helping animal welfare projects worldwide.

Above (L-R Clockwise):  Close To My Heart cashmere sweater, Silver-tone Faux Pearl Hair Slide, Patch-pocket striped silk pyjama shirt, Striped wide-leg silk pyjama trousers, Mini gold-plated earrings. 

Above:  Forget your sleeve, wear your heart on your heels this Valentine's Day with Rogue Matilda's characterful Lover's Gold metallic brogues.

Heart 'Feel Good Challenge'

Knowing that this time of year can prove quiiiiite the struggle for many of us (I mean, January is the Monday'ist of all the months, and February is kind of, well, a bit 'meh' too) those cheery lot at Heart (my personal antidote for all dem'winter blues) has launched the #HeartFeelGoodChallenge. Here comes the science bit; Challenge yourself by trying a feel-good activity, inspired by a feel-good song you heard played on the station.  

I always have the radio playing as I write, and last week, fresh off the boat from Kenya, wearing 84 layers of clothes and feeling ultimately sorry for myself, Heart played one of my faves, 'Say You'll Be There' by the Spice Girls, no less. This bouncy, deliriously infectious girl power anthem is ultimately all about how actions speak louder than words, which resonates slightly, given my New Year's resolution has proved, thus far, to be mostly hot air! Promising myself I would start doing some exercise in 2018 didn't quite go entirely according to plan… 

Being a life-long member of the 'Fitness Protection Programme,' I have always struggled to commit to any kind of exercise regime, let alone enjoy any classes that I've tried.  As I get older I am increasingly aware that the health benefits of exercise cannot be denied, and a little toning here and there is always a welcome perk.  'Say You'll Be There' definitely leaves you feeling pumped, ready to leap off that comfy sofa and get moving, so yes, it happened…I leapt; A Frame gym membership was sourced, and Barre classes and Reformer Pilates signed up to...

I have to say, despite the anticipated pre-gym grumbles and subsequent aches and pains associated with squats, the endorphins have been released, and I'm really looking forward to my next class; 80's aerobics (and yes, there will be leg warmers and a scrunchie… I may not be well versed in exercising, but accessorizing? Oh, I've got that down, people!)

I'd love to hear if you have also taken up the #HeartsFeelGoodChallenge and started any new mood-boosting activities to help you get through these grey ol'months… And please share any 'pick me up' song recommendations you've heard play on Heart which might help keep us all stay motivated...!

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In collaboration with Heart
Photography: Ella Sadika
Hair: Taylor Taylor London  

Spring Denim at Debenhams

A good pair of jeans is the ultimate addition to anyone’s wardrobe, as regardless of the weather or the occasion, some good denim is the most reliable ‘go to’ of dressing solutions. I am the ultimate jeans girl, with a day rarely spent not wearing a pair, so I leapt at the chance to style up some of Debenhams latest spring denim designs…

THE SKINNY JEANS

Last season we saw a real shift back to skinny denim, and it’s quite clear that this sorely missed style is here to stay.  Charcoal grey is always a great transitional colour jean, and the bold, playful Studio By Preen polka dot shirt, with its gorgeous wizard sleeves, really stands out when worn with together. After abandoning my socks (gloves, vest, and balaclava), I’ll be wearing this outfit as I merrily skip outttta Winter into Spring. 

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THE BOYFRIEND JEANS

Baggy, too-cool to care boyfriend jeans are a staple in my wardrobe, and it’s a style I usually contrast with slightly more feminine pieces.  This pair however, are uniquely adorned with striking floral embroidery, so I reached for my leather jacket, sneakers and more plain accessories to try and balance out the pretty.

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THE WHITE JEANS

It’s not just Liz Hurley who loves a good pair of white jeans… Regardless of the season, you’ll find my legs wrapped in gleaming white denim too. I wore this fitted pair with some white boots (a huge trend right now) and some pieces from Nine by Savannah Miller, who’s collections each season at Debenhams I look really forward to. FYI - her embellished khaki bag is a real keeper!

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THE BLACK JEANS

Worn from work and straight into play (do not pass go, do not collect 200…) nothing is worthier of investment than a good pair of skinny black jeans - they can literally do NO wrong!  I also really love this striped dress shirt, which I tied kimono style at the front, and with the addition of a strong red lip, your #OOTD would make the perfect #OOTN. 

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Shop my full Debenhams edit HERE. 

In collaboration with Debenhams
Photography: Eva Salvi
Hair: Taylor Taylor London  
Nails: Swanky

Getting Personal with Thomas Sabo

I have to say, when it comes to jewellery, I’ve always been on the subtle, rather than statement side of adornment. I prefer the layering up of smaller, more delicate pieces that spark conversation when close, rather than bolder pieces seen from a far.  Most of the jewellery I wear is also completely unique to me, personalised and engraved with family names and certain meaningful dates or phrases. Given that I don’t even have pierced ears, it will probably come as no huge surprise that I don’t have any tattoos either, so wearing jewellery to display my grand amour is about as bigger ‘shout out’ as someone can get!

I noticed a massive surge in all things personalised during the height of Sex and the City (didn’t we ALL want a ‘Carrie’ style necklace?!) and with Meghan Markle spotted wearing a necklace with her and her Prince’s initials on it, the trend shows no sign of remotely slowing down. 

Once a piece of jewellery is engraved, it instantly becomes more than a gift, it becomes an heirloom and this is why I always veer towards this idea for presents. With Christmas a few days away I wanted to make sure my family had some new treasures to celebrate the birth of my nephew Zac, whilst not leaving his big sister, Miss Safari Willow, out of the proceedings (pity the fool…!)

Thomas Sabo has some of the most layer-worthy, stylish yet amazingly affordable pieces, for which they offer complimentary engraving, so I headed straight there. They have a huge range of styles to choose from, catering for both male and female customers and their obviously differing ages and tastes. I also noticed their new Together collection of intertwined rings, and necklaces, encrusted with eye-catching diamonds, also highlighting these inseparable, bonds.

With so much to peruse, it took a little time to decide which pieces were most suitable, but the engraving amazingly only took a few minutes. I chose letters and names, but you can also add symbols which I may include next time.  I can’t wait to give my mother, sister and my friend Abbie their personalised creations, and not wanting to be left out, I maaaaaaay have also got myself a little somethin’ somethin’ too…  

Ok, so understandably, I couldn’t resist getting myself one of the Thomas Sabo Spinning Coin necklaces, on which I engraved a ’W’ and ‘Z’ on each side to keep both my niece and nephew close to my heart (*cue audience: “Ahhhhhhhhh…”)  Seriously though, this is such a great gift (even if just for yourself!) as it’s so versatile, can be worn from day to night and the playful spinning of the rotating coin is simply ADDICTIVE.  The necklace is also available in sterling silver (RRP. £139.00) and 18k rose gold plate (RRP. £198.00).

My darling friend Abbie also just had her second baby, so I decided to get her this Thomas Sabo classic ’Love Bridge’ bracelet in 18K Gold plate (RRP. £119.00), made completely unique to her by adding both her son’s names on to it; ‘Rocco and Ozzie.’  This bracelet will go with everything and anything and I imagine she won’t ever want to take it off. 

My sister has relatively ‘tom boy’ tastes when it comes to jewellery, and tends not to wear very much at all, but I know she’ll love these 18K gold plated Thomas Sabo ‘Little Secret Disc’ bracelets, on khaki, hand-knotted nylon (RRP. £49.00). Adjustable and personalised with the initials of her children, these look awesome stacked together, and not too ‘girly.’ I actually loved these worn together so much, that I decided to get my mother the same ‘Little Secret Discs’, engraved with her grandchildren’s initials, but with a ballet pink coloured cord (RRP. £49.00), as she also likes her jewellery to blend in more with her skin. I’m so excited about seeing them open these, and how special they will find the engraving.

I couldn’t wait to wear my Spinning Coin Necklace, so I unwrapped this spoiling ‘Dear Kelly, Love Kelly’ gift a little early... I love it. Thanks Kelly. 

I will admit, I also decided to give my sister’s Little Secret Disc bracelets a little road test (and by road, I mean café with cake test, you know the one!) to show you how great they look stacked... Let's just say, I’m going to reeeeally struggle giving them away!

As it’s already so close to Christmas, and the last deliveries have been sent, pop inside your nearest Thomas Sabo store this weekend to find the perfect last minute gifts, made all the more perfect with complimentary engraving. These totally unique presents will be loved for a lifetime... ALLLLL of the Christmas Feels!  MERRY CHRISTMAS ONE AND ALL!

In collaboration with Thomas Sabo
Photography: Eva Salvi
Hair: Taylor Taylor London  
Nails: Swanky

Klorane: A French Pharmacy Favourite

Jane Birkin, Jane Seberg, Caroline de Maigret, Clemence Poesy… In my mind, when it comes to effortless style and seemingly natural beauty, French women will always come up le trumps.  I say ‘seemingly,’ as that well documented, and much envied, ‘je ne sais quoi’ our trop belle neighbours possess, is as much the direct result of the ritualistic use of reliable, high quality products as it is the dose of good genes they frequently are blessed with.

 I think this is why us Brits have always incorporated a lengthy and joyous perusal in a French Pharmacy into any travel itinerary, and why we have suddenly seen so many more French products pop up on our shelves this side of the channel in recent years.  

Despite now being able to pop to Boots to stock up on all my French faves, there are still few places more exciting to visit than a French Pharmacy.  Case in point; Last Easter, my girlfriends and I derailed our entire ski group in Courcheval, so we could visit a French Pharmacy… A little Après Skin before our Après Ski.  One friend, Emma, was raving about Klorane, and specifically their cult product, the Oat Milk Dry Shampoo.  Watching her purchase several cans, le FOMO kicked in and I also grabbed one myself. 

In all honesty, up until this point, I had always assumed dry shampoo was a quick fix for greasy hair, used if running late for work, or for a quick freshen up at a festival… Given I have major OCD and wash my hair most days, I just hadn’t ever imagined dry shampoo being a staple in anyone’s beauty regime, let alone my own. The reality is, French women don’t wash their hair every day, believing that frequent washing can strip the scalp of nourishing oils, so prefer to wash their hair only a couple of times a week. 

Launched in the ‘80’s and still considered the best in its field, Klorane’s Oat Milk Dry Shampoo decreases the need to wash your hair, and what I’ve found, is that it rather helpfully extends the life of my blow-dries.  Rather than leaving your hair feeling stiff, the result of others I’ve tired, the oat milk in Klorane’s Oat Milk Dry Shampoo seems to soften and protect your hair, even giving your doo some volume within just a couple of minutes. It took a while for me to relax into not washing my hair every day, but knowing that I’m looking after my hair and scalp, whilst also rocking some serious French chic, bed head vibes, it’s been worth it. Just pass me some red lippy and a Breton, already! 

Above: Shake Klorane's Oat Milk Dry Shampoo well before use and spray evenly 30cm away from hair roots… Leave for 2 minutes and brush out thoroughly, et voila! 

Above: Klorane’s Oat Milk Dry Shampoo is also available in a mini size for touch ups and added texture throughout the day. 

After discovering this total hair hero, I wanted to learn more about Klorane. In 1966, Klorane has a well-documented history in pharmaceutical ethics and is dedicated to protecting both plant heritage and the environment.  We all know I love incorporating more ethical purchases into my life, and it seems Klorane is putting the care in to the hair care, by donating a portion of its sales to supporting the activities of the Klorane Botanical Foundation. 

Keen to try some more of Klorane’s products, I decided to give their Mango Butter Range a go.  Having spent a chilly few months in London hiding under a beanie, and being about to head back to Africa for Christmas, I felt my hair could do with some serious nourishment. 

The Klorane Mango Butter Shampoo, and Conditioner, contain fatty acids that really act to repair your hair and bring back its suppleness and shine. 

Klorane's Leave in Cream serves as a protective coat, making your hair easier to style. Oh, and I should mention, the smell… Ooh La La! Heavenly. 

I’ve really been enjoying using Klorane’s Mango Butter Range twice a week, with interim touch ups using the Klorane Oat Milk Dry Shampoo.  My scalp is definitely appreciating being left alone a little more, and my hair is super shiny thanks to the oils I’m clearly allowing to hang out a little more. 

Being now able to stock up on these affordable Klorane products within the U.K, rendering those heavy beauty hauls back from Paris on the Eurostar less necessary, has also been massively helpful (and now there’s plenty more room to smuggle back cheese…!)

Klorane is available at Boots, Escentual, Birchbox, Look Fantastic and independent pharmacies.

In collaboration with Klorane

Photography: Eva Salvi

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All He Wants For Christmas 2017...

If you’re struggling to find something more exciting than the annual pair of socks, here is a little giftspiration for the (sometimes) deserving men in your life…  Hover and click on the items for their direct links.

ABOVE:  Frangipani’s brilliantly unique and colourful cotton and linen designs are perfectly suited from beach to bar (RRP. £75.00 each). 
 

Above: Pop Ottolenghi’s Chilli and Coriander Chutney in his stocking... It's deeeelicious!

Above:  This luxury, multi-brand Christmas Collection Box is filled with nine stylish, yet practical, pressies, including a S’well Bottle, Aspinal of London Credit Card Case and Barbour scarf.  The ultimate spoil. (RRP. £150.00... But worth £228.45).  
 

All She Wants For Christmas 2017

Jingle Kells is back here with a little annual, last min giftspiration for the lovely ladies in your life... If, like me, amidst the haze of festive celebrations and trying manically to finish sign off various bits of work, you’ve left your present buying to the very last minute, fear not! We still have some time to place orders for our loved ones online, cuppa in hand, rather than having to brave the last minute high street dash on Christmas Eve!  Oh and the Net a Porter SALE started today too, so all our disorganisation might have have paid off...

Hover and click on the items for their direct links and Merry Christmas (shopping)...

Above:  'Buy to Give' this season by spoiling your loved one with jewellery that also directly helps fight against ivory poaching.  The Tembo Collection comprises seven Masai bead inspired bracelets which I designed with Auree Jewellery, and every purchase of a Satao, Pembe or Shina (RRP. £50.00 - £140.00) sees 100% of the profit go to For Rangers, a campaign in conjunction with Tusk that helps the heroes on the front line of conservation in their fight against elephant poaching across Africa. A real feel good pressie. 

Above:  Pens, make up brushes, carrots… If they fit, they’re going in one of these Pentreath Hall Alphabet Pots (RRP. £42.50). How many is toooo many?! 

Above:  A Cartwright & Butler festive hamper filled with thoroughly-British tasty treats… Let the feasting begin! (From RRP. £35.00)

Above (L-R):  I already have a super chic, personalised Garment Bag (RRP. £175.00) from bespoke womenswear label Tephi, and now I'm after their perfect Washbag (RRP. £40.00) to match.  Edge of Ember's ethically and sustainably made personalised Love Letters (RRP.£95.00) are swoonsome and look even better when stacked together in different lengths. 

Oh, and don't forget that all important Stocking! 

 Dear Santa...!

Uzma Bozai's Africa Collection (Donating 10% to For Rangers)

I’m always one for mixing a casual tee with something smarter, and the minute it gets chillier the tee is replaced with a sweatshirt. Never out of style, and always comfortable (not something regularly associated with fashion, let’s be honest!) the sweatshirt is a great way to dress down and bring a little casual-cool to your favourite pair of velvet or leather trousers, or maxi and pencil skirts.  I was therefore, thrilled to discover Uzma Bozai’s namesake brand, my now go-to for colourful, bold and intricately embellished sweatshirts. 

This season, Uzma Bozai have released a collection of sweatshirts inspired by Kenya’s beautiful Masai Mara, featuring hand-beaded tribal art, wild animals and statement slogans derived from African proverbs.  Not only is the Africa Collection ultra wearable and all things hella cool cat, but after learning about For Rangers and their incredible work through following me on Instagram, Uzma Bozai will be donating 10% from each Africa sweatshirt to the cause until Christmas. 

I have supported For Rangers, a campaign in conjunction with Tusk, all year with Auree Jewellery by donating to them the profits of our Tembo Bracelet collaboration. 

The project was started by friends of mine back in Kenya, a dedicated group of individuals, with no overheads or running costs, who raise money for the welfare of rangers on the frontline of this battle to save elephants by undertaking insane feats to help raise money to support them.  Over the last two years, the group have completed, amongst many others, the 'Marathon de Sables' across the Sahara Desert, the ‘Beyond The Ultimate’ Jungle Run in Peru, and last week, the ‘Desert Ultra’ across 250km of Namibia. Legends, or what?! 

Please consider buying a sweatshirt or bracelet this Christmas, and supporting For Rangers and the brave heroes on the front line of the battle to save Africa's endangered wildlife.

Read my interview with Uzma Bozai HERE

Photography: Frances Davison

Hair: Taylor Taylor London

FitFlop x Habitat for Humanity

I moved to my flat in Notting Hill three years ago, after a short but tumultuous period of bouncing around from house to flat, and at one point, hotel room to friend’s sofas. Although still an ongoing process, slowly making this little one-bedroom flat, with its creaky black floor boards and New York loft style exposed brick and sky lights, my own, has been a total joy. Saving up for things has taken time, and in some cases, some extreme willpower (fixing windows over buying new shoes, for instance, takes the strength of an ox…!) and the arrival of my long-lusted after jade velvet sofa of dreeeeeams this month, just in time for my impending hibernation, has been a triumph.

My bathroom is covered in Matthew Williamson for Osborne and Little butterfly wallpaper, my wardrobe, in House of Hackney colobus monkeys, and Jo Malone candles and photographs of my beloved niece Safari Willow and nephew Zac cover most of the surfaces. Monkey book ends, giant coral prints, a Rosanna Lonsdale zebra lamp, and my framed Guy Malin leopard balloon photograph all remind me of where I’m from in Africa.  Stepping into my flat after a crazy day whizzing around London, throwing off my boots, popping on my slippers and attacking some Jaffa Cakes, makes me feel calm, cosy, and safe…

Basically, I feel at home. 

I know, the word LUCKY springs to mind. Especially when one in five people across the world are living in slums or substandard housing, propelling them into a grinding cycle of poverty. When someone lacks a home, their health, well-being, educational prospects and ability to earn a living all become affected. 

With this in mind, FitFlop are supporting Habitat for Humanity this year, a global non-profit organisation which helps build homes for families in need around the world, offering them strength, stability and self-reliance through much-needed shelter. 20% from each purchase of a pair of FitFlop House Slippers, in all their cloud-like double shearling and fluffy pom pom glory, is made to Habitat for Humanity. 

Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity has worked tirelessly to provide access to decent housing for families in over 70 countries. From building homes and providing villages with clean drinking water, to natural disaster relief and micro-finance, this organisation have amazingly helped over 10 million people worldwide.

The FitFlop House Slippers are available in two different colour ways, and I was immediately drawn to the charcoal grey pair with midnight blue pom poms. Not only have I practically not taken them off, but several of my friends have already gone and bought themselves a pair after seeing mine. With Christmas fast approaching, these make the perfect ‘Buy to Give’ present… Even if that present miiiight be to yourself… Hey, no one’s judging here! 

Oh, and if that wasn’t enough, this pair of beyond comfortable, limited edition LOVE Slippers also see 20% from each sale go to support Habitat for Humanity’s life-changing work. What’s not to LOOOOOOVE, huh?!

 “At FitFlop, people put their hearts and souls into making the world’s best ergonomic footwear, because they believe that if you want to live an inspired life, you’ve got to start with a great foundation.  And while a great pair of shoes will improve your life, a safe decent home is the ultimate foundation.” 

Marcia Kilgore, Founder of FitFlop.

“We’re really excited to be partnering with FitFlop on this venture. Both of our organisations are passionate about making a sustainable difference and FitFlop’s vision for solid foundations aligns perfectly with ours.”

Naomi Rothwell, Habitat for Humanity GB Corporate Partnerships Manager

In collaboration with FitFlop

Photography: Francis Davison

Hair and Makeup: Secret Spa

#FITFLOPxHABITATFORHUMANITY