WOTC’s Verdict on Blink Brow Bar’s Iconic Tubing Mascara
Finding the right mascara is like finding the right hair stylist. Once you find the one, you’re adamant to try others.
WOTC’s Verdict on Blink Brow Bar’s Iconic Tubing Mascara
WOTC Magazine
Finding the right mascara is like finding the right hair stylist. Once you find the one, you’re adamant to try others.
So when the OG’s of brows, Blink Brow Bar tried their hand at lashes.. we had to try!
Tried and tested by our very own editor-in-chief Phadria Prendergast, as well as a handful of WOTC’s beauty and fashion editors, the verdict is in… we love it!
WHAT WE LOVE MOST:
The easy removal!
Cotton and water does the trick in a matter of seconds
Mental Health Awareness Week: An Account From One of the Brightest Minds in the World on Overcoming Depression
When I started at Imperial I opted to commute from home because I thought that it would be cheaper and I could save money but the 1hr 15 minute commute took its toll on me.
Mental Health Awareness Week: An Account From One of the Brightest Minds in the World on Overcoming Depression
When I started at Imperial, I opted to commute from home because I thought that it would be cheaper and I could save money but the 1hr 15 minute commute took its toll on me. It meant that I couldn’t participate in a lot of the clubs and activities that happened after 7pm at uni because I had to be home before 8pm. How this curfew came about I don’t know, maybe it was all is my mind, a mindset that I’d continued on with from sixth-form. I’d say that I had a strict mother, I could never go over to a friends house much less sleep overs for fear that I’d become a lesbian. My mum would always say to bring my friends over to our house instead, and I’d look around the house and decide that’ll never happen. I once asked if I could go to the movies with a girl who’d invited me from school and the response I was met with instantly killed every thought I had about having a social life.
So here I was walking down the halls of Imperial, watching people take part in evening dance classes and wishing I could attend but also realising that if I attended I’d be home too late late (10 pm lol). And it was moments like this that made me strongly consider living in uni accommodation.
I finally decided to get a room starting at the second term of my first year and I used the excuse of my commute to convince my mum. She was all for it but I’d have to come home every weekend from Friday night and go back on Monday morning. Looking back I don’t understand why I agreed to this but I guess it’s because I respected/feared my mum and I didn’t have any close friends that could talk me out of it. At this time, my mum had started a church with a pastor she’d met and they both helped me through the packing process and drove me to my new abode.
I was never really religious growing up. I believed in God and knew there was a guy called Jesus who is apparently is his son who died for us, but that’s all the knowledge I had. This is the knowledge base that most African children have.. plus “obey your mother and father.” My mother also wasn’t really into it until she met the pastor which rekindled her fire and the whole household had to get involved. On Sundays I was in charge of the food, the inventory, the setup and the offering. My sister was in charge of not looking grumpy. I enjoyed playing church but over time, I began to ask myself if we were really helping anyone and I grew tired of empty promises.
That’s the backstory, I’ll now get to where it all went wrong. It was my first night sleeping in my new room in uni accommodation. My mum had dropped me off and I finally had my room to myself. I remember thinking that this was where my life would start when in fact it was where my nightmare started.
On my first night sleeping in my new bed, I was introduced to sleep paralysis. I’d have a nightmare I was being chased and I knew it was a nightmare and I was trying to wake up but I couldn’t move or speak. Then I’d wake up but I’d still be dreaming, yet thinking I was awake until it dawned on me that it was still a dream. I called my mum, she prayed for me and I thought it would be okay after that but every time I went to bed or had a nap it would happen again. I started sleeping with the lights on and when that didn’t work I was just afraid to sleep. I didn’t have anyone to talk to about it and the nightmares were starting to wear me down.
I had always liked to dress up and look nice. I’d plan a whole week of outfits the Sunday before the week started and would be excited to wear every single one, but as the days went by I started wearing the same jeans and top each day. I had started to dread going home on the weekends because I always felt worse and more drained when I left on Monday than when I came on Friday. I guess I should have realised that something was wrong when I started getting angrier in general, but it mostly manifested to my younger siblings.
I’d wear my fake smile to everyone but feel like my heart was breaking. Some weekends I didn’t even bother with the fake smile, but what’s funny is that my mum never noticed or realised that something was wrong.. or maybe I didn’t notice that she noticed.
It got to a point where I was always angry and hurting and I felt locked up inside myself. Almost like I couldn’t move or be me. I was a prisoner in my own body. To make it worse, I felt that I had no one to talk to because everyone thought I was okay and I wanted everyone to think I was okay. I thought I was okay. I was the smart one, the intelligent one, the one going to Imperial to study Molecular Biomedical Engineering. The one who got straight As and took care of everyone else. Maybe everyone thought I was grumpy because I had lots of uni work to do but no one ever challenged my mood.
Depression isn’t something that’s spoken about in an African household and mental health is a taboo — something that doesn’t exist and if it’s troubling you too much, pray to Jesus about it and he’ll take care of it.
I stopped attending lectures after sometime because I was always falling asleep in them. I was always tired even when I drank a double espresso with red bull. I’d stay in my room all day trying to stay awake but failing miserably. I started getting anxious as well. I got scared of speaking to people to the point where the toilet was located outside of my uni room but I was too scared to go to it in case I met someone on the way there and they decided to say hi. I’d hold it in until I couldn’t anymore and then listen at the door if anyone was coming and run for it.
After a couple of weeks stuck on my room, I realised that I needed help — help that my family couldn’t provide and so I went out in search of a campus Christian society and I found one. You can tell that I still didn’t know I had depression. If I knew, I would have reached out to a well-being advisor but I didn’t even know what depression was let alone what help was available.
The nightmares eventually stopped after attending a few of my mother’s ‘prayer meetings.’
I’d say that the nightmares ending helped a bit, but the damage was already done. I had depression and I still didn’t know. At this point I was a walking zombie.
The thing that helped me greatly is that I knew I shouldn’t be alone, so I tried to surround myself with people. People who didn’t expect me to be perfect, but who genuinely cared if I was okay. I found this through a new church where someone spoke to me and let me know that I could beat this depression if I wanted to and that they could help me by being there for me.
I was still in denial up until I failed my third year of uni. Whilst speaking to the well being advisor, she said “you obviously are depressed”. And I wasn’t trying to look depressed that day. I was trying to be strong, and so it dawned on me in that moment that I wasn’t okay and I hadn’t been okay for a while.
The well being advisor asked me what I thought triggered the depression, but when I tried to come up with a list to explain why it all happened, I couldn’t. We decided to settle on the fact that it was my move to my uni accommodation, as that seemed like a big change in my life.
When I thought about it later, I concluded that it was because I was always living in fear.
Learning from it all, I’d say that even if you are going to one of the best unis in the world or you are working in one of the best companies in the world and you believe that everyone expects you to be perfect, it’s okay if you’re not and if you need help. You should always ask for help especially when it comes to your mental wellbeing because the more you hide and try to fix yourself, the more you break.
Can we really build mental resilience from our troubles?
I have always wondered how two people can experience the same event yet be affected differently? Why do we face issues? Have you ever dreamed of a world where problems do not exist? Is there anything to be gained from troubles?
Can we really build mental resilience from our troubles?
Words by Yetunde Salako
I have always wondered how two people can experience the same event yet be affected differently? Why do we face issues? Have you ever dreamed of a world where problems do not exist? Is there anything to be gained from troubles?
My time working with a unique group of people, 18-21 year olds, has shown me that mental resilience can be taught. Daily I meet young people with big problems, most come after 3-4 months of ruminating on it. The amount of time spent worrying about a problem can negatively impact your mental health, and some go on to develop conditions like anxiety and depression.
Difficult situations can be scary especially when it is something you have never faced before. But if you consider the following I hope you’ll agree that problems can be used to build your mental resilience.
Be solution focused
It would be unrealistic to expect a life without problems, so your approach is everything. Have you ever had a problem you spent time worrying about? Did it feel like it grew bigger?
If you believe there is a solution to your problem and spend more time thinking on what it could be, you’re more likely to find it.
Talk to someone
Troubles are rarely unique, by talking to a friend or a professional specific to your issue, you’ll realise that others before you have gone through similar things. This is important because they can share how they got through it with you. So ask for help, ask for advice, someone knows what you don’t.
Learn from the experience
It’s ok if you panicked the first time, but by the second or third time you’re facing an issue you need to be able to remind yourself of the things you have resolved previously. Apply the knowledge and problem solving skills learnt again and again. Use each situation to develop and improve on those skills.
Avoid unhealthy coping strategies
The things we do to cope that may provide short term relief from the stress of problems but are harmful in the long-term. Ignoring or avoiding the issue until you miss important dates or deadlines, comfort eating, substance misuse and ruminating just to name a few.
The aim is not to become robots who do not feel, and of course individual differences such as culture, environment and past experiences can affect our ability to cope with difficult situations. However mental resilience can be taught, and that’s where problems come in, they are our opportunities to practice the skills that build our mental resilience, until over time you find it easier to adapt and function in difficult situations. Without problems how would we learn to do this?
The Link Between Entrepreneurship and Depression
As an entrepreneur, the ultimate goal is to build a successful business, but what comes along with it can often be daunting to the mind. Being part of a generation who are keen on entrepreneurship and the idea of being in control and although there are many successes in running a business, the journey of being an entrepreneur can be straining, having an effect on a person’s mental health and wellbeing.
The Link Between Entrepreneurship and Depression
Words Aisha Kamara
As an entrepreneur, the ultimate goal is to build a successful business, but what comes along with it can often be daunting to the mind. Being part of a generation who are keen on entrepreneurship and the idea of being in control and although there are many successes in running a business, the journey of being an entrepreneur can be straining, having an effect on a person’s mental health and wellbeing.
Starting and running a business can be stressful and can create an emotional uproar from time to time and this can come down to a founder disregarding their mental health. Recent findings tell us that founders experience depression more commonly than others and many are unaware they have it. In fact, only 30% of entrepreneurs report having depression or not being in the right state of mind.
There are a number of factors that contribute to founders being in distress, having anxiety and depression. The fear of failure is one subsidising factor. The thought of telling others a project in which you have invested so much time, money and passion in has been unsuccessful can be too much to bear for some. There are often financial risks where founders pour a large portion of their resources into ventures which can lead to enormous financial stress. Another factor can be isolation, with a truckload of tasks to complete, it causes founders to spend less time with family or friends and in fact causes the build-up of depression.
Likewise, dealing with stress and anxiety whilst running a business can introduce negative thinking, self-blame and uncertainty can often come to a person who is constantly worrying. Furthermore, not getting enough sleep, not eating well and failure to exercise can generate mood vulnerability, leading to depression over time.
The Covid-19 pandemic took its toll on a lot of businesses and internationally founders had to face many challenges which inevitably affected their mental health. UK fintech CEO Tom Bloomfield, a co-founder of Monzo, stepped down at the beginning of 2021 due to his mental well-being. Bloomfield mentioned that he hadn’t enjoyed being CEO for a number of years, and was believed to be doing ‘too much.’ Despite this, Bloomfield was very happy to talk about his mental state as many others could relate as entrepreneurs themselves.
Another internet entrepreneur, Ben Huh, struggled with running his business and bottled up suffering with depression. He faced the common factor of the strains of building a business, feeling the burden of losing hundreds of thousands and feeling disappointed of being in constant failure. However, this led him to express his struggles in running a business in the attempt to fight the stigma of depression and anxiety.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and serial entrepreneur previously opened up about his battle with depression and described his life as great highs, terrible lows and unrelenting stress — often people do not want to hear the negative side of being an entrepreneur. However, having to share the struggles of running a business gives a chance for others to understand the reality you could possibly face in the life of being an entrepreneur.
So the ultimate question is how should an entrepreneur handle the challenges that come with running a business?
Training the mind is important and knowing how to take time out, eat right or even engage in physical exercise can contribute immensely to having a healthy mind-set. Most importantly, the building of a business should always include having a community, support and people that you can rely on not only physically but mentally.
Pink SS22
This season, we aren’t just wearing pink on a Wednesday.
Whether it’s baby, bright, bubble gum or blush, pink is certainly dominating both the runways and the high street this coming Spring Summer. Transitioning from dark, warm, winter looks straight to a fuchsia power suit may not be easy for everyone so start small by introducing pink accessories or a pop of colour within an all-black look.
Pink SS22
Words Lily Hall
This season, we aren’t just wearing pink on a Wednesday.
Whether it’s baby, bright, bubble gum or blush, pink is certainly dominating both the runways and the high street this coming Spring Summer. Transitioning from dark, warm, winter looks straight to a fuchsia power suit may not be easy for everyone so start small by introducing pink accessories or a pop of colour within an all-black look.
Balmain and Valentino showcased their Barbie-esque looks during SS22 Fashion Week and they were no less than eye-catching. Trends can often have people eye-rolling as designers unveil unwearable looks down the runway, however, we are glad this must have colour has trickled down to the high-street and simultaneously into our wardrobes.
While many people advise to stay away from trend driven looks and pieces, this one is not to be missed. Bright, statement pink is what caressed the runway this season, but lighter, pastel shades are also a hit.
This Valentino tweed dress (£2,100) is the perfect statement piece to kickstart your bold coloured wardrobe. Paired with a white blazer and sandals, this would look perfect for day drinks on a summer’s afternoon.
Buy Now
We can never say no to a bodysuit from SKIMS and this one in Ultra Pink (£56) is no different. The fit of these bodysuits is second to none and definitely worth investing in as staple pieces in your collection. To introduce the trend more subtly, pair this with denim jeans and heels for an effortlessly chic vibe.
Alexander Wang shorts are always popular no matter the colour and these baby pink ones (£435) are our most favourite yet. The cute colour makes them ideal for a feminine summer outfit. The high-rise contrast waistband is a statement in itself so go simple with this look. A black bodysuit and simple strappy heels or sandals, depending on the occasion, and you are good to go.
There is nothing better than a tailored blazer to make you feel empowered, especially when it comes in pink satin. This Alex Perry blazer (£1,800) is the perfect statement piece that we have been waiting for. Wear over a white mini dress for drinks with the girls or treat yourself to the matching shorts for a boss woman look to turn everybody’s head.
If you are looking for the perfect, pink occasion dress then look no further. This House of CB number (£189) is everything you could possibly dream of. A gorgeous blush pink satin with corset detailing, This would look a million dollars at a graduation, christening, wedding or even a garden BBQ.
32 Transitional Pieces For Spring
Spring has arrived and with it warmer and brighter weather. This makes the season the perfect occasion for a wardrobe refresh, so whether you're going all out with a spring clean or searching for key additions to your wardrobe, here’s what’s on our fashion editors list.
32 Transitional Pieces For Spring
Words Bethany Boyo
All the Pieces you need for spring
Spring has arrived and with it warmer, brighter weather. This makes the season the perfect occasion for a wardrobe refresh, so whether you're going all out with a spring clean or searching for key additions to your wardrobe, here’s what’s on our fashion editors list.
Coats
Tops
Jackets
Trousers
Dresses
Bags
Shoes
Accessories
Gymshark Must Haves
How many gym sets are too many, just asking for a friend. It's fair to say that your workout is only as good as the set you put on, here is some of this seasons must haves, just before you read on a quick disclaimer, these reviews are not sponsored by or affiliated with Gymshark .
Gymshark Must Haves
Words Bevery Pokauh
How many gym sets are too many, just asking for a friend.
It's fair to say that your workout is only as good as the set you put on, here is some of this seasons must haves, just before you read on a quick disclaimer, these reviews are not sponsored by or affiliated with Gymshark.
Adapt Animal Seamless Crop ½ Zip in Court Blue
Now when choosing a sports bra i didn't want to go down the conventional route I wanted something abit different that would give me maximum coverage, style and comfort, so i went for the Adapt Animal Seamless Crop ½ Zip - The fit is so flattery and the color is gorg and will compliment all skin types, the sweat wicking finish is impressive (*pulls moisture away from your body, through the fabric so it can evaporate) honestly you could wear it out with a pair of high waisted jeans or some joggers I personally wouldn't confide this beauty to the gym alone it just isn't fair, the material is very stretchy and roomy, i know once you see a roll neck you think conservative tight and restricting my it's actually the total opposite, the zip element gives it a hint of sexy, simply style with a cute necklace, i do suggest keeping it slightly open, the crop ½ does not include any padding but you could add padding or wear a sports bra on the inside if leaving it as it is isn't your style, the overall fit is true to size though i would normally get a small i felt so much more comfortable in a medium.
Price: £35.00
Adapt Animal Seamless Leggings in Court Blue
The seamless collection from Gymshark is without a doubt one of the best lines of leggings Gymashark sells in my opinion. They are so flattering even on bloated days, once I put them on they were so stretchy, comfortable, complimenting the booty and for all my shorts ladies not too long ! On skin it feels so buttery and sleeky and most importantly lightweight though it looks figure hugging, due to the sweat wick finish it doesn't stick to your skin, there is nothing worse than trying to pull up leggings when sweaty and it's just not budging. The scrunch bum feature is honestly my fav, it gives shape to the butt which is nice because sometimes you can get some leggings that are so fitted and it literally swallows you butt and your butt can sometimes look like it doesn't exist, i would definitely suggest getting the right size, as it is true to size and can come up tight which can be uncomfortable and cause major compression on thighs, the only issue i had is because my body is awkward the medium was a bit too big for my waist area and rolled down when doing vigorous movement so be sure to get different sizes depending on the collection, these are a great pair of leggings if you'd like to add more color to your gym wear collection and the design is so pretty and very subtle and 100% squat proof !
Price: £50.00
Energy Seamless Hoodie in Biscotti Brown
This is the perfect pullover made for performance, very lightweight and breathable, it has the energy seamless detailing all across the top, on the arms and the back, it's a unique looking color as well biscotti brown, this hoodie gives you the best of both worlds great for lounging in on a Saturday afternoon and working out in on a Monday morning vibes, i got this in a size medium as i didn’t want the fitted look.
Energy Seamless leggings in Biscotti Brown
I’ve actually never worn energy seamless leggings before prior to receiving them so I was very excited. I have to say I fell in love with the eyelet detailing in the leggings which makes them very breathable and who doesn't love showing a bit of skin right ? i got the leggings in a size medium and now i wish i got them in a smaller size only because there are supper long on me i’m 5’4 so the struggle is real, however i’m not sure if sizing down would have helped, the glute contouring with mesh structure wasn't giving what i thought it would be giving but nevertheless it's a very nice fit and unique color, the material is so soft and stretchy and i would 100% lounge in these leggings, for all my cardio lovers this pair of leggings and cardio are a match made in heaven i had an intense HIIT session over the weekend had no trouble moving around, pulling up leggings constantly or embarrassing sweat patches.
Price: £45.00
Adapt Camo Seamless Racerback Sports Bra in Green
So as mentioned before when I choose sports bras I don't really go for conventional bras, but this racerback bra is a win ! super comfy great coverage for those with a big bust i would 100% recommend especially if you don't want to show too much cleavage and the detailing with the scrunch in front and the back is a gamechanger
Adapt Camo Seamless Leggings in Green
First things first ! once you put these bad boys on they literally make you feel like wonder woman, the sleek feel on the fabric is unreal and they instantly pass the high waist check for anyone wondering, the band around the waist holds in the belly area nice and tight whilst still allowing you to move and 100% squat proof, again if your ever feeling conscious about your bloat these leggings definitely give the confidence to out there on the gym floor and perform regardless of how your feeling, the material is not to heavy which i really like, again we have the scrunch butt feature which adds a nice little touch and accentuate the glutes and the camo design subtle is not too much or in your face just really fun and playful again i nice way of adding color to your wardrobe
Price: £40.00
Crew Socks 3PK
The Gymshark crew socks provide comfort and great cushioning perfect for all you squatters and dealifters and also great to lounge in. Personally I love wearing my socks over my leggings, I don't know why but it brings that fashiony feel to my gym fits… I know not everyone wants to make a fashion statement with their workout fits but if you do i salute you !
Rumor has it Ben Francis spearheaded this trend
Price: £12.00
LC Bag
Who doesn't love a good gym bag, gymshark have the cutest selection of gym bags and the LC caught my attention straight away the cylinder like shape is so unique, it's designed to hold every in-gym essential you may have which is very clever especially if you want to keep your pockets clear from unnecessary clutter and focus on training, the best feature has to be the functional touchscreen pocket for your phone makes everything so much simpler
Price: £25.00
Celebrating individuality with Burberry SS22 Collection
Burberry hosted a preview of their SS22 collection by Riccardo Tisci. The preview is set in the Pavillion Club Knightsbridge, one of London's exclusive locations. We were greeted and escorted into an intimate setting with a breathtaking view of Hyde Park. As champagne and afternoon treat graced our palettes, we eagerly anticipated the presentation of the collection.
Celebrating individuality with Burberry SS22 Collection
Words Uyi Ilenbs
Burberry hosted a preview of their SS22 collection by Riccardo Tisci. The preview is set in the Pavillion Club Knightsbridge, one of London's exclusive locations. We were greeted and escorted into an intimate setting with a breathtaking view of Hyde Park. As champagne and afternoon treat graced our palettes, we eagerly anticipated the presentation of the collection.
The rotation of models began in pairs, with each pair showcasing a different piece from the collection over their SS22 attire. We began by looking at and hearing an in-depth description of Riccardo's methodology, from fabric layering to quilting, and how it all came together to produce such a liberated collection, with the help of a brand specialist. The delicate detailing of Tisci's creative genius can be seen in the gradual transitioning of his creative brilliance piece by piece. Through design, print, and technique, Tisci's exploration of imagination has given birth to a series of limitless possibilities, the power of self-expression, and a celebration of individuality.
My personal favourite would have to be the notable Burberry trench coat with a clean and precise silhouette. Tisci transformed this with the front coat panels featuring layering mesh in the animal-inspired print that moves through the animal instinct collection. The Distinctive ‘B’ logo is featured across the collection but Riccardo Tisci's signature designs captivate the eyes and minds of us all..
Suited All through Summer
In the words of Coco Chanel - "A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous."
A power suit is the embodiment of all of this and more. There are endless silhouettes to suit any occasion or mood. We're going bolder than ever with designs, colours, and accessories this spring and summer. Retailers have loaded their rails with brave power players, exploring every possibility. I'm going to show you some of my favourite essential suits that will meet all of your needs.
Suited All through Summer
Words Uyi Ilenbs
In the words of Coco Chanel - "A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous."
A power suit is the embodiment of all of this and more. There are endless silhouettes to suit any occasion or mood. We're going bolder than ever with designs, colours, and accessories this spring and summer. Retailers have loaded their rails with brave power players, exploring every possibility. I'm going to show you some of my favourite essential suits that will meet all of your needs.
Zara
Basic Blazer Croppers trouser suit | £80
BOA
Classic blazer with belt, Wide leg suit trousers | £120
Karen Millen
Italian Structured Satin Db Jacket & Flared trousers | £294.40
Jigsaw
Sunkissed Floral Blazer & Palazzo trouser | £215
ASOS
ASOS DESIGN slim suit in pink | £93
NA-KD
Pinstripe Oversized Suit | £132.90
The Launch Of Love Infinity
The launch of the remarkable Love infinity, the first art film of it’s genre, created in London by Oscar winner and Chinese multidisciplinary artist Tim Yip started a few nights ago at The National Gallery, with an evocative taster of the film and a panel featuring Louisa buck, Maryam Eisler, Daniel Lismore and Phillip Colbert.
The Launch Of Love Infinity
Words Shemaiah Gold
The launch of the remarkable Love infinity, the first art film of it’s genre, created in London by Oscar winner and Chinese multidisciplinary artist Tim Yip started a few nights ago at The National Gallery, with an evocative taster of the film and a panel featuring Louisa buck, Maryam Eisler, Daniel Lismore and Phillip Colbert.
Image credits to Dave Benett @davebenett
Image credits to Dave Benett @davebenettFrom the moment I walked into The National Gallery, I was surrounded by an array of character. The whole evening was very dreamlike, very artistically curated and depicted the film exceptionally. As soon as I arrived, I was met by Katy Wick who put the night together, looking beautiful in a bright purple overcoat who then led me into the main gallery space where I was given some white wine by the very smartly dressed waiters. Anyone would have been inspired whilst being in the space, it was the perfect location for such an event being surrounded by the greatest collections of paintings in the world, many from the 16th century renaissance period. I was very excited to spend the evening in conversation with some of the icons that emerged from the East London creative scene celebrating the release of the film series produced by Iranian-born, London-based artist and photographer Maryam Eisler and designer and conceptual arts curator Mei-Hui Liu.
I was particularly intrigued when speaking to Phillip Colbert one of the current leading NFT artists about ‘The Lobsters’ following his first NFT auction which took place recently at Bonhams auction house with special guests amongst Tinie Tempah and more. In a dreamlike merging of the fantastic and the real, Love Infinity takes some of the greatest characters East London can provide, pushing the boundaries on what is ‘real’ life and what is art.
Historically, the east end has been a place of poverty and hardship but also of new beginnings in the words of Tim Yip himself. The bold cinematic art film brings to the foreground societal themes of identity, diversity and freedom, and sees Yip turn his camera lens towards London at a period of economic uncertainty, political division, and environmental crisis, to create raw intimate footage of untold narratives.
Shot over the span of two years, the two films are set against the backdrop of the unique cultural scene of East London. The nearly three-and-a-half hour long “Memorandum for The Next Golden Age” is a semi-documentary, in which Yip revisits the history of East London through interviews with some of the key players of the local scene, from fashion designer Vivienne Westwood to artistic duos Gilbert & George and Philip and Charlotte Colbert.
Image credits to Dave Benett @davebenett“I love how the film brilliantly captured all these beautiful bubbles of creative individuality; as humans we have the possibility to make our own reality, and for me all these brilliant creative forces are a shining light of the power of self-expression.”
“Tim has such lovely energy and I love how he poetically navigated and inspired everyone he met on his acid trip style journey through the creative rabbit holes of east London. I love how it’s shot and edited."
“The film really is a beautifully realist absurdity which is the essence of life.”
Comments from Phillip Colbert
Best Dressed At The Oscars 2022
Stunning looks from the red carpet…
The Oscars. One of the ultimate events in the entertainment industry and a chance for celebrities to dazzle those at home in stylish outfits befitting a red carpet.
Best Dressed At The Oscars 2022 Part 1
Words Bethany Boyo
Stunning looks from the red carpet…
The Oscars. One of the ultimate events in the entertainment industry and a chance for celebrities to dazzle those at home in stylish outfits befitting a red carpet.
Many stars came decked out in looks referencing both old and new inspirations whilst some chose to look to the future with more modern looks. It was the first time Oscar nominees also took centre stage this year, as Demi Singleton stunned in an elegant Miu Miu dress. Meanwhile, Dakota Johnson’s elaborate Gucci gown designed but the mastermind himself Alessandro Michele stood out from the rest. However, it was Euphoria star Zendaya's floor sequined floor length Valentino skirt paired with a cropped white blouse that stole the show, for being simple yet radiant. It’s safe to say the stars embraced the return of in-person proceedings this year and more than one dramatic look was found on that illustrious Academy Awards red carpet, that being said here are some of WOTC’s favourite looks from the night…
1 - Zendaya in Valentino Haute Couture
Image Credit: STEPHEN LOVEKIN/SHUTTERSTOCK
2 - Demi Singleton in Miu Miu
Image Credit: CHELSEA LAUREN/SHUTTERSTOCK
3 - Dakota Johnson in Gucci
Image Credit: EVAN AGOSTINI/AP/SHUTTERSTOCK
4 - Mila Kunis in Zuhair Murad Couture
Image Credit: STEPHEN LOVEKIN/SHUTTERSTOCK
5 - Maggie Gyllenhaal in Custom Schiaparelli
Image Credit: JORDAN STRAUSS/INVASION/AP 
6 - Jessica Chastain (Best Actress winner) in Gucci
Image Credit: AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES 
London Fashion Week Rejina Pyo AW22
Did you ever imagine yourself wanting to dress like a worker from the 1920’s? Not the glitz of the flappers or the glamour of the movie stars, or like Mademoiselle Chanel or Scott Fitzgerald and his crowd, but like the real working class of the 1920s? Like miners, or farmers, construction crew or labourers? Rejina Pyo thinks so.
LONDON FASHION WEEK
REJINA PYO AW22
Words Amie Elizabeth White
Did you ever imagine yourself wanting to dress like a worker from the 1920’s? Not the glitz of the flappers or the glamour of the movie stars, or like Mademoiselle Chanel or Scott Fitzgerald and his crowd, but like the real working class of the 1920s? Like miners, or farmers, construction crew or labourers? Rejina Pyo thinks so.
A denim suit paired with worker boots walked out first, confirming that the knee-high styles will be gracing our calves again this year. An olive-toned satin shirt dress followed, before another look of utility made from a shirt of cream and cargo pants of beige came behind. But it was the suits that grounded the collection. Suit after suit came down the runway. There was one cut sharp in a brown of the smoothest chocolate, another in checks and another in blue. Blazers were cut wide, with shoulders and sides demanding double the space of the person who wears it. A waxed ochre bomber jacket with matching pants formed another, tucked into boots just like the pilots used to do. Coats included macs made of leather, double-breasted and checked, or slim puffer styles of mossy green. There were knitted vests layered with boiler-suit denim, and fisherman hats to top off some of the looks. Despite all the masculinity, this was not a display of fashion from a man’s world gone by, as Pyo’s creations were contemporary and constructed with the modern woman in mind. The naked shoulders, flashes of chest and figure fitting dresses gave the collection its sexiness, but it was a sexiness that you can wear every day.
A sentimental element taken from her era of inspiration was the idea of togetherness. Despite the hardships of prohibition and lifestyle conditions, people still connected and did what they could to have a good time. She says “there were no boundaries – everyone was welcomed with open arms” and it is here where Pyo’s talents lie, as she produced a collection of pieces that can be used in every occasion of her customer’s lives. Suits and shirts for any office, mixed with some floral dresses for any garden, coats for any weekend getaway, and some slinkier dresses just in case the evening gets away with you. The 1920s was an era that we learn about in history, but the clothes in this collection? This is for now.
The Collection
London Fashion Week Simone Rocha A/W 2022
Simone Rocha has solidified herself as one of the most exciting and evolutionary designers to showcase at London Fashion Week. Fairytale femininity is married with function then twisted with gothic flair to produce collections that modern women can’t wait to wear. As we took our seats in the medieval hall in London’s Inns of Court, it felt as if Rocha had planned the winds of brute force that had surrounded us before entering, literally whisking us from our daily life into the story that she was no doubt about to tell us.
London Fashion Week
Simone Rocha A/W 2022
Words Amie Elizabeth White
Simone Rocha has solidified herself as one of the most exciting and evolutionary designers to showcase at London Fashion Week. Fairytale femininity is married with function then twisted with gothic flair to produce collections that modern women can’t wait to wear. As we took our seats in the medieval hall in London’s Inns of Court, it felt as if Rocha had planned the winds of brute force that had surrounded us before entering, literally whisking us from our daily life into the story that she was no doubt about to tell us.
The narrative was inspired by the Irish tale, Children of Ire¸ in which the four daughters and sons of an Irish King were turned into swans by their jealous stepmother. As the collection unfolded before us, shapes and shadows reminiscent of their influence were indisputable, but acclimatised perfectly with Rocha’s signature style. As always, ballooned sleeves and voluminous skirts were ballasts of the collection. Taffeta was tailored into coats, some with braids that twisted over arms and followed behind like Rapunzel’s locks. It was stitched to ruche and pleat, forming bows atop fabric that billowed below. Utility came in the shape of leather jackets, cargo pants and shorts, each chosen to tuck and turn with the black satins or white shirts that commanded more space and attention. Each look was broken up by another layer of fabric in a different shine or structure. Sheer dresses were worn atop gingham shirts, and a flash of torso broke up the heaviest velvets of sapphire and onyx.
But not a single look was lost from the influence. “Wings” of ruffled fabric fell from shirts and jackets. Tight knitted hoods with crystal embroidery surrounded faces to give a bird-like crown. Pointed platforms turned feet into beaks, with wet-look trainers on some and fringed flats giving a “feathered” look to complete others. Of course, as the swans in the story were of royal descent, there was never a better excuse to adorn each look with droplets of rubies or crystals or pearls.
The colours were kept to a palette of blacks, greys and whites, with a blue velvet coat and hint of peach later down the line. But the minimal yet poignant pigment of use was the red. Appearing as gems around the neck, then as a squiggle on a dress, and then as a latex cape atop a ruffled white skirt. It was a reference to the darker elements that are etched in every fairytales core, and a reflection of Rocha’s ability to twist darkness into her effeminate styles season after season.
Layer after layer, look after look, Rocha spun a ready-to-wear tale of magnificent but manageable proportions. The collection was nothing short of a fairytale, and once again, Rocha proved that London Fashion Week is a stage for her story.
The Collection
Glitz & Glam Never Fades For Halpern
Hosted in the eclectic Brixton Recreation Centre, The Halpern Autumn/Winter 2022 was a combination of glitz and glam that reflected off the stone walls of the community centre. Michael Halpern decides that ‘community is where it’s at,’ as he highlights with this collection that ‘It’s not just about the clothes anymore.’
Glitz & Glam Never Fades For Halpern
Words Bethany Boyo
Hosted in the eclectic Brixton Recreation Centre, The Halpern Autumn/Winter 2022 was a combination of glitz and glam that reflected off the stone walls of the community centre. Michael Halpern decides that ‘community is where it’s at,’ as he highlights with this collection that ‘It’s not just about the clothes anymore.’
Although being almost entirely bespoke the collection reflected just how much the fashion industry has changed since the pandemic. Amidst all the glitz and glamour, community and social awareness have become major topics. Halpern expresses his belief in this by bestowing his lights from his show to the Recreation Centre, which the Borough of Lambeth can’t afford to install power in.
Halpern, drawing inspiration from old Hollywood movies channelled the age of disco with references to the ’70s seen throughout. Glitter, sequins, and tassels noted in each design took us back to a time of extravagance and decadence as though the collection was a scene out of a movie. Most of the designs showed off Halpern’s creative flare, like the tiger-motif velvet burnout crinkled chiffon one-shoulder slit dress in an ivory and gold hue stole the show, whilst some pieces were more minimal. Standout pieces included: An exuberant white balloon sleeve gown with ruching details on the arm and a checked orange skirt suit fused with layered fringing in the thigh slit.
It's safe to say that Halpern’s designs, whether bespoke or not will never cease to appreciate both in value and artistic quality. By listening to what the women who buy his clothes want and making more accessible designs this season, it’s clear to see he is ahead of the curve and plans to stay there.
The Collection
Poster Girl debuts with Ski-ready collection
Pop culture’s favourite brand takes on aprés ski at London Fashion Week with their debut runway show amid the effects of storm Eunice.
If you’re not familiar with the brand, then where have you been? With their infamous Miranda dress worn by the likes of Kylie Jenner and Dua Lipa, you’ve got to have this brand on your radar if you are looking for hyper-feminine designs, with a fun Y2K-edge.
Poster Girl debuts with Ski-ready collection
Words Jennifer Engmann
Pop culture’s favourite brand takes on aprés ski at London Fashion Week with their debut runway show amid the effects of storm Eunice.
If you’re not familiar with the brand, then where have you been? With their infamous Miranda dress worn by the likes of Kylie Jenner and Dua Lipa, you’ve got to have this brand on your radar if you are looking for hyper-feminine designs, with a fun Y2K-edge. The British designer duo took over an incomplete floor of a building in west London, stripping back the set to showcase their highly anticipated AW22 collection.
Beginning the show with a custom gold chainmail co-ord, straight away the looks became more captivating as more layers and textures were introduced. Mixing their signature ‘psychedelic swirl lace’ shapewear with chainmail mini dresses, the ski-slopes won’t know what hit them. Bold neon pink lace dresses, jade latex and Mongolian fur coats, this collection is more than just being loud but owning the sensuality and versatility of being a Poster Girl.
Collaborating with 3D print designer Roussey on the jewellery, which was a combination of Swarovski encrusted pieces and metallic filament, complementing each look. You could tell that the brand was showing its growth, incorporating eyewear looks and outerwear tailored to perfection. An ode to British manufacturing. This collection was a stunning introduction to the brand and an insight into what could be in store.
The Show
WOTC Ones To Watch 2022
Introducing WOTC’s class of 2022 who make up fashion designers, media personalities and actresses.
WOTC Ones To Watch 2022
Introducing WOTC’s class of 2022 who make up fashion designers, media personalities and actresses.
Bukky Bakray
British actress Bukky Bakray won the nation’s heart in 2019 for her role in Rocks, later becoming the youngest BAFTA Rising Star Award recipient as well as one of the youngest Best Actress in a Leading Role nominees. She ended 2021 with a key role in television series You Don’t Know Me and appeared in Forbes’ 30 under 30.
Giorgia Tordini and Gilda Ambrosio
The Italian duo are the founders of luxury label The Attico, founded in 2016. Since its inception the pair have garnered a celebrity cult following from Hailey Bieber to Rihanna to Leonie Hanne.
Grace Beverley
As CEO & founder of TALA and Shreddy, Beverley is steadily carving a name for herself as a businesswoman, launching her first company whilst still at university.
Amanda Gorman
The Poet & activist gained international fame when she read her poem “The Hill We Climb” at the 2021 inauguration of the U.S. President Joe Biden. She became a youth delegate for the UN in 2013 and graduated cum laude from Harvard University in 2020 with a degree in sociology.
Tega Akinola
British-Nigerian creative and recent sports psychology university graduate, Akinola is the designer of her eponymous label for men and women. Her quirky upcycled designs have no doubt brought uniqueness to streetwear.
Bianca Saunders
Founder & Creative Director of her namesake Bianca Saunders, Saunders has created a new approach to menswear, picking up Forbes 30 under 30 in 2020, was shortlisted for the LVMH prize the following year, and hosted her very first show in Paris last month.
HoYeon Jung
The model-turned-actress rose to international fame almost overnight after the Netflix series "Squid Game,” hit our screens. Her performance as the North Korean defector Kang Sae-byeok turned her into one of the show's breakout stars, racking up millions of Instagram followers within weeks.
Nella Rose
The British media personality and influencer is well known for her funny and full of character vlogs has been featured on several media platforms including BET, Netflix, Foot Asylum and the BBC.
Natalie O’Leary
Media personality and PrettyLittleThing podcast host and presenter Natalie O’Leary is the social media face for the UK-based fashion retailer. Alongside hosting for PLT at their heavily influencer-focused events, she also picked up her own slot on BBC Radio 1, and hosted at the WOTC New Faces Awards 2021 in December.
Saniyya Sidney
Having played young Venus Williams in 'King Richard,' Sidney is also set to play Sasha Obama in Showtime's 'The First Lady,' Sidney is taking Hollywood by storm at just 15 years of age.
Wilglory Tanjong
Tanjong is the founder and CEO of Anima Iris, her luxury handbag line, all of which are hand-stitched in Dakar, Senegal. With a star-studded celebrity following from actress Khosi Ngema to Beyoncé, Wilglory Tanjong is a name you will want to remember.
The Golden Age: Paul Costelloe AW22
Set in the luxurious Palm Court of the Waldorf Hotel, Paul Costelloe transports us to the gilded age in his AW22 collection. Surrounded by hand painted murals in a crisp white setting, the show delivers a magnificent interpretation of the renaissance period.
The Golden Age: Paul Costelloe AW22
Words Bethany Boyo
Set in the luxurious Palm Court of the Waldorf Hotel, Paul Costelloe transports us to the gilded age in his AW22 collection. Surrounded by hand painted murals in a crisp white setting, the show delivers a magnificent interpretation of the renaissance period.
The collection draws inspiration from Tudor styles with a range of reds, regal blues and rich van Dyk browns infused with a mastery of modern tailoring that Paul is renowned for. Fabrics include lavish tweeds, gold lined brocades and jacquards. Statement coats crafted from pure wool and sumptuous knits make for key pieces in the collection.
Paul Costelloe does what he does best with balloon dresses and Elizabethan high neck ruffles. The collection features luxurious printworks by William Clark in Northern Ireland. Laser-cut designed bags in gold and silver and commissioned jewellery from Nidhi Creations from India and Bláithin Ennis, delivering a fabulous exploration of the Golden Age.
The Collection
Three Cheers For Labrum London!
Three Cheers for Labrum! As creative director Foday Dumbuya goes back to his roots in Sierra Leone this season, the collection explores poetic movement and what a collection it is. The show, featuring a spoken word performance and vocals by a choir, transported onlookers into another world, taking us on a journey of movement.
Three Cheers For Labrum London!
Words Bethany Boyo
Three Cheers for Labrum! As creative director Foday Dumbuya goes back to his roots in Sierra Leone this season, the collection explores poetic movement and what a collection it is. The show, featuring a spoken word performance and vocals by a choir, transported onlookers into another world, taking us on a journey of movement.
Almost poetic in its fluidity, the collection is filled with cultural nuances, from the detailed tailoring of suits and overcoats to the dynamic colours such as ocean greens and effervescent yellows seen throughout. Dumbaya expresses the influences from back home and his life here as the fabrics used are steeped in culture, sourced and crafted in Freetown. Standout pieces include: a collarless suit with braided leather pockets and a vivacious orange coat with oversized lapels. Teaming up with leather goods brand Nosakhari, the brand also unveiled three contemporary bag shapes including a crossbody, an oversized tote and a folio.
Labrum London continues growing from strength to strength, with each collection and show setting a standard for the next. WOTC are excited to see where the artistry of Foday Dumbuya and his team will take us next.
The Collection
“Let’s just say Slack communities are your best friend to meet people in your industry, but which ones are the best to join?”
Before COVID came and messed up all our plans of going out, socializing, going on holiday and most importantly NETWORKING. So the use of Slack, Discord and other online communities such as them increased in users. Companies, charities and social clubs relied on them more than ever as WFH increased and lockdown had the cheek to actually happen.
“Let’s just say Slack communities are your best friend to meet people in your industry, but which ones are the best to join?”
Words Sandra Edmund
Before COVID came and messed up all our plans of going out, socializing, going on holiday and most importantly NETWORKING. So the use of Slack, Discord and other online communities such as them increased in users. Companies, charities and social clubs relied on them more than ever as WFH increased and lockdown had the cheek to actually happen.
Of course, in-person events were cancelled and the rise of virtual events was upon us where we were able to network with individuals within our industry or our interests. Personally, I didn’t like virtual events because I was really missing that in-person interaction but being a part of a discord group and slack channel really helped my networking game. So I bring to you online communities to consider joining.
FinTech
Cryptocurrency & Blockchain
Beauty
Creatives
Technology
Online Marketing
There are 1000+ online communities out there that you can join and the above are only a few that are available to join. If you are looking for a slack or discord community for your industry or interest, you can check out these websites to find the one for you:
Don’t forget, if you are part of any communities, check to see if they have their own slack or discord community channel. If they don’t, be the one to start one because you never know how many others may want to either network or need support.
But for now, it's your favourite tech geek signing out until next time x
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK: ZIMMERMANN RTW FALL 2022
The first look was the golden dress. Bell-sleeves, tasselled hems, embroidered shoulders and a frilled neck, married with a full-length skirt that bounced with each step. It’s a style that has come to define Zimmermann’s elevated bohemian flare.
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK: ZIMMERMANN RTW FALL 2022
Words Amie Elizabeth White
The first look was the golden dress. Bell-sleeves, tasselled hems, embroidered shoulders and a frilled neck, married with a full-length skirt that bounced with each step. It’s a style that has come to define Zimmermann’s elevated bohemian flare. Following on from the dress came a suit of cobalt, worn close to the figure and cuffed with a pattern like before. But here, a figure of an archer appeared, and we saw the twist that this show would offer us: the Zimmermann Zodiac. The collection was inspired by the stars. Created with the Scottish artist Anita Inverarity, each look contained an image or a trinket associated with the 12 signs of the Zodiac, re-imagined for the Zimmermann woman and coming to life in the craftsmanship that the designer gets so right. Folk-like and fun, but intricate and considered, celebrating illustration and the influence from above. And not a single detail was spared when it came to the Stargazer: belt buckles were crescent moons, jewels were orbs made of gold. Even zippers got the celestial treatment, as stars featured on the pull.
In true Zimmermann style, details were picked from dreams and looks were so good they were surreal. But in a world where reality and practicality reigned supreme, each look was grounded by wearability and belief. As the fashion world looks towards the trends of the cooler temperatures, Zimmermann offered us a lesson in textural layers. Shearling jackets, puffer coats and cable-knit cardigans weighted down the lighter fabric underneath. There were pea coats, bomber jackets and capes, worn over dresses for some, and paired with jeans for the next. High collars promised to keep us from the cold, with knitted scarves and fur over shoulders offering even more. Even tights were a feature, but not the kind that would ever be an afterthought. These were tights made of thick ivory lace, or patterned with the same depth and detail of the silks that the models wore. The romanticism of Zimmermann, one we perhaps associate with Spring florals or Summer nights, was made rational and reasonable, and wearable as the sun turns to ice.
It was a show marked by contrasts. Wool was paired with lace. Colours of orange and Kelly green punctuated ivory tones. Delicacy and detail were offset by heartier and heavier textures of leather and felt. But it was a show of fun. Frills were made to bounce, flares were made to flounce, and the game of contrasts served as a tantalising but tasteful reminder that clothes are meant to be worn. But there was history, too, as velvet shoes established an intimate connection to Renaissance Italy. It was a time of richness and of art. But it was a time and place where astrology shaped the arts and civic life like never before, and an era that is mirrored in the way we are influenced by our star signs now.
The final looks were gowns made with gold. Individually embroidered discs bearing stars and signs shimmered from shoulder to floor. Yes, they were gowns that demand a certain setting. But if you layer them with a shearling jacket, the setting might not be as far-reaching as you thought. Details picked from dreams, but looks marked with a realism and believability that made this Zimmermann ready-to-wear, actually ready-to-wear. The stars aligned with this one.