The Best Rooftops to Enjoy the Sunrays

WOTC Magazine

Picture this: you, your nearest or dearest (or your work colleagues), a round of ice-cold drinks and some of the best views in the city of London. We think that’s a pretty sweet setup and so we’ve handpicked five of the best rooftops London has to offer, all that’s left for you to do is send the invite and decide who’s picking up the bill. Enjoy! 

The Pavilion, Knightsbridge

The private members’ club is housed in a historic property that dates all the way back to 1884. Inside, velvet furniture, mosaic tiling and intricate ironmongery exude a sense of welcoming luxury that marries timeless elegance with modern style. The Pavilion has three luxury buildings across London in Kensington, Cannon Street and St. James. The six-floor Knightsbridge venue opened its doors in July 2021, offering a multi-faceted space in the heart of the city with luxury retail stores, exclusive beauty salons and even antiquities dealers right on the doorstep, its rooftop terrace overlooking Hyde Park.

Aqua, Soho

Just a short walk from Piccadilly Circus, in the heart of Soho, you find the stylish Aqua Spirit rooftop bar — Or Aqua Nueva and Aqua Kyoto rooftop bars, depending on how you look at it.

The two impressive indoors restaurants blend together, and also holds two twin terraces, where you can enjoy drinks from the Aqua Spirit bar, but also a selection of signature Japanese and Spanish bites, taking inspiration from the flavours of the restaurants.

Coq D'argent, The City

Whatever the weather, you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and panoramic views at Coq D'argent. A luxurious space, boasting a chic bar, lavish restaurant and one of the most impressive rooftop spaces in the city, it was designed by celebrated landscape garden designer Arabella Lennox-Boyd, and features impressive views of famous London landmarks like St Paul's Cathedral and the Bank of England.

Radio At Me London, The Strand

Impossibly glamorous (and sometimes impossible to get into if you haven't booked), the exclusive rooftop bar at ME London piles on the wow factor with its minimalist monochrome decor and views over the City skyline. On those hot summer days, the prime spots are the white leather sofas by the rooftop edge: perfect for alfresco posing.

Alto By San Carlo At Selfridges Rooftop

If the view over central London from up on the sixth floor wasn’t eye-popping enough, then the space itself ought to do it – the trellises nimbly arching over the dining are are all covered from foot-to-tip with greenery, flowers, lemons, or other such seasonally appropriate goodies. And they’re not just for show either, they actually serve the equally beautiful practical function of holding up the retractable roof, to shield you from the wrath of envious, rain-soaked clouds. There are even a couple of cosy little beach-hut style cabanas, too.

The Power of Planning

Words Jade Thomas

Planning: something we all know we should do if we want to have a successful day, week or even career but maybe a skill that some of us feel we could improve. So how do we successfully plan and why does careful planning seem to be one of the keys to success?

When I see a client for therapy, no matter what issue they come to me with I always try and educate them on the issue or why this issue is persisting for them. I explain that often in this situation knowledge can be power and you don’t always need a list of tools and strategies to solve a problem, sometimes you just need a deeper understanding of the ‘why?’ in order to change or improve your behaviour. So why should we incorporate planning into our lives? Why is planning so important?

There are many psychological benefits as a result of successful planning. Firstly, planning or preparing for something whether that is planning your work week, a presentation or even a trip,brings a sense of control which in turn lowers our anxiety levels. When we feel more in control of a situation, we are less likely to feel anxious as anxiety usually comes from a sense of feeling out of control.

Planning can also increase your clarity, which can then enhance your confidence. For example, if you feel well prepared and clear about a big presentation you must give at work, you are more likely to feel more confident about the situation. On the other hand, if you leave your preparation for the presentation until 20 minutes beforehand and you walk into the situation not feeling clear about what you are going to say, this can not only increase your anxiety but also decrease your confidence which can then impact your performance. Finally, planning can also help you to achieve your goals in the sense that it increases consistency and often that is how goals are achieved. Want to run a marathon? You need to train consistently leading up to the marathon. Want to complete a degree? You need to attend lectures and produce work consistently. Want to write a book? You need to write consistently. All of these end goals not only require consistency, but they also require a sense of planning alongside it. You cannotwork consistently without having some sort of plan to follow, to ensure you are staying on track.

So, the next question is how? How can I effectively incorporate planning into my life as one of the keys to success?

Lots of the planning for success involves creating habits, whether that is daily habits, weekly habits or monthly habits. Again, the art of creating habits creates a sense of consistency.

A good place to start is to start by planning out your week. You can do this on Sunday if you want to hit the ground running first thing Monday morning or if you prefer to keep your working week separate from your weekend you can spend some time mapping out your week on Monday morning. Planning out your week can help to reduce any sense of overwhelm and helps you to break tasks down or spread the less important or imminent tasks out across the week.

Another way to plan for the week ahead is by meal prepping and outfit planning. Both very simple tasks but, you will be surprised how much time this can save you each day. By planning out your meals for the week not only saves you time but can also help you stick to healthy eating rather than ordering in that takeaway midweek because time just ran away with you and can also help to cut costs of eating out or ordering food.

Another way you can incorporate planning more broadly into your life is by goal setting, another element often used in psychotherapy. People often set themselves goals or resolutions at new year, but once January has past these are often easily forgotten about. Start by setting yourself yearly goals and then break those yearly goals down into more manageable, stepping stone, monthly and weekly goals, this ensures again that consistency which helps you to stay on track, ultimately helping you to achieve the overarching bigger yearly goals.

Finally, make sure you are planning time for rest. Rest is so important and often neglected in today’s ‘hustle culture’, ‘sleep when your dead’ society. But at the end of the day, without rest you cannot perform to the highest of your ability. We often associate resting time to be ‘unproductive’ or ‘a waste of time’, but actually taking time to rest and recover can be one of the most productive things you do as it recharges your battery’s so you can perform. Think about it like this, when our phone run’s out of battery we don’t start calling it ‘lazy’, we accept it has run out of battery, plug it in and use it again when its fully charged. Our bodies work in the same way, so remember to plan some charging time for yourself during your week.

Five Products to Use at Home for Salon-worthy Hair 

WOTC Magazine

No need to waste time trying to find great products for your hair — these five products come highly recommended by the experts themselves.

Extension Professional

Extension Professional Clip-in Hair Extensions are an easy way to add instant length, volume and thickness to your natural hair at home. Crafted from premium quality, ethically sourced human hair and won't damage the natural hair like bonded or woven options.

Turbo Tong

Turbo Tong is the number one extra-long curling tong for long hair and extensions for a reason. I only use this wand when styling hair extensions as the extra-long barrel allows more hair to be tonged in one go and creates even and loose beach waves.

Tangle Teezer

I couldn't live without a Tangle Teezer! Great on all hair types but especially on hair extensions. Effective at smoothing and removing knots and tangles, the Tangle Teezer easily glides through your hair without damaging your extensions. 

ADEM LONDON Shampoo

This organic shampoo is rich in hazelnut oil, which translates to moisturising and strengthening benefits for your hair. Plus, there's no parabens or sulphates!

Duck & Dry All Round Hairspray

I love the Duck & Dry hairspray because it's weightless and gives a flexible and long-lasting hold with natural movement. It also smells sensational! 

Books For Those All Important Commutes

WOTC Magazine

Nothing can ease the pain of a long, tedious journey better than an engrossing read, so beat those travelling blues, and cash in on some ‘downtime,’ whilst stimulating your mind with our top picks.

IN MY SHOES

In My Shoes: A Memoir The Jimmy Choo founders personal and candid account of her life in the fashion business Mellon is one of the biggest names in the fashion world and one of the worlds best known business women The books release will coincide with the launch of the authors much anticipated new brand The author has an offer to film a reality television show about the months leading up to the launch of her new brand In this candid memoir, Tamara Mellon shares her whole larger-than-life story, with candour and detail that has never before been made public. From her troubled childhood and her time as a young editor at Vogue to her partnership with cobbler Jimmy Choo and her very public relationships, she offers a gripping account of the episodes that have made her who she is today.

#GIRLBOSS

#GIRLBOSS proves that being successful isn’t about where you went to college
or how popular you were in high school. It’s about trusting your instincts and following your gut; knowing which rules to follow and which to break; when to button up and when to let your freak flag fly.'

BROTOPIA

If you’re living in the vicinity of the 415 area code and have experienced the toxic Silicon Valley “bro” culture that’s coming to light, you’ll want to pick up Brotopia and give a good cheer. In this powerful exposé, Bloomberg journalist Emily Chang investigates the tech mecca's male-dominated culture (from venture capital to startups and titans), and interviews some of the Valley's most powerful women on what it takes to change “brotopia.” Everyone from Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg to YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki give their take, and guarantees are you’ll have your take by the end, too.

THE OTHER BLACK GIRL

Is the book worth the hype? Yes. It should be at the top of your Sunday reading list. A whip-smart and dynamic thriller and sly social commentary that is perfect for anyone who has ever felt manipulated, threatened, or overlooked in the workplace, The Other Black Girl will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last twist.

How to Maintain That Perfect Smile at Home

Words Dr Simmi Bharadia

Maintaining the perfect smile really does begin with our at-home routine! We have skincare and haircare routines yet there isn’t much emphasis on our smile routine! Here are 5 tips that you can incorporate into your daily oral hygiene practice to keep your pearly whites healthy.

1.     The Basics
I know the basics seem boring but a lot of people still get this wrong! We all need to be brushing our teeth for 2 minutes twice daily with an electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. When brushing, ensure that you aren’t just focusing on the front of your teeth; be mindful to brush the back, the side, the biting surface of the teeth and the gum line (where the tooth meets the gum). In addition, flossing is recommended at least once per day to remove plaque, bacteria and food debris from in between the teeth to help prevent cavities and gum disease.

2.     Don’t Forget About The Tongue!
I am utterly aware that this isn’t a sexy topic but using a tongue scraper is absolutely essential in my books. The tongue is a hotspot for bacteria, fungi, food, dirt and dead cells which can lead to bad breath and a coated tongue. Use a tongue scraper twice daily to remove this coating and experience the freshest breath you’ve ever had!

3.     Avoid Highly Pigmented Food (& Easy Hacks If You Cannot!)
I definitely don’t want to dampen the joy of your morning latte but smoking, red wine, tea and coffee are among a few of the culprits that cause external staining to form on our teeth. This can manifest as brown patches across the teeth that hide our natural tooth shade, making our teeth look much darker than they really are! Try to minimise these highly pigmented foods where possible but if you really can’t resist them, my top hacks would be drinking through a straw and rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash immediately after consuming.

4.     Mouthwash After Meals
A lot of my patients in the clinic tell me they combine the use of mouthwash with brushing, however this is the incorrect way to use mouthwash and doesn’t allow us to experience the benefits! Mouthwash should be used outside of brushing your teeth and works wonders after meals. Not only does it freshen breath and wash away any food or plaque stuck in the teeth, it also floods the mouth with a high concentration of fluoride, which is clinically proven to remineralize our enamel, keeping our teeth strong and bright since the tooth’s enamel layer is responsible for the glossy, pearlescent shine that we all lust after!

5.     Treat Yourself To A #TEETHMASK

A luxe at-home treatment that I love is the Advanced Enamel Serum Kit from Regenerate. It contains two custom-fit mouth trays, a mixing stick, enamel serum and an activator gel that work harmoniously to reverse early enamel erosion. This can occur from acidic fruits or sugar-laden fizzy drinks and its side effects include translucency, yellowing and sensitivity. The serum uses patented ‘NR-5 Technology’ which combines calcium silicate and sodium phosphate to form a crystal structure identical to the mineral found in enamel (hydroxyapatite). In combination with the activator gel, this serum improves enamel hardness and prevents tooth cavities.

The Key Reasons Why Art Prints Are Worth Your Investment

Words Shemaiah Gold

Whether you’re starting your first art collection or you’re an experienced art collector, here’s why you can’t afford to miss out on investing in your first art print. The misconception can often be that art prints are not as valuable as the original art piece, however artists such as Joe Webb have proved that the investment value of art prints are increasing rapidly with some of his prints selling for £225 just a few years ago and now being sold for up to £5,000. Art prints are not merely copies of the original, they can have nearly the same value and on some occasions even more than the original. The fine detail and attention paid to the process of printing contribute to the increasing value, not to talk of those that are signed and hand finished. This is your ultimate step by step guide for investing in art prints, it may be quite overwhelming if it’s your first time so keep reading to learn more.

Firstly, consider that original art prints give you more than one investment option when starting your journey and art pieces are a great asset which always has the potential to grow. Art also offers a level of security that may not be available in other forms of investment, one of the strongest attributes being its tangibility which gives it significant value beyond just personal wealth. With art prints, unlike bonds and stocks where you’re at risk of it losing value quickly, it often has a higher residual value, more so than non-tangible assets. Keep in mind, there are many more reasons to own an art print, but here listed are just a few of the many.

Ultimately, no matter what happens in the art market, you can always sell your art. The art market is constantly growing and the market value is also increasing. One of the golden keys of adding to your art collection as an investor is looking for good quality prints that will appreciate over time and Joe Webb is amongst the group of quality artists who’s prints are increasing in value rapidly after breaking the internet, becoming a viral sensation with his dreamlike, thought provoking and surreal prints. Joe Webb started making his pieces as a response to his computer-focused graphic design job. Turning away from the screen, he revelled in the simplicity of using two or three print images to create totally new worlds. He first creates his hand made collages with a message whilst reimagining found imagery using simple and concise edits to make thought provoking artworks looking at issues such as the environment, war, inequality and questions our place in the universe which he then creates printed versions of. His prints are delicately screen printed on paper, often with a glitter varnish, signed, titled and numbered by Joe Webb.

So what is the best reason to invest in original art prints? Art itself is beautiful. Through art, you can experience joy, peace, serenity and quiet reflection. Art can provoke you into thinking, having more conversations and easily enhance the quality of your life, it’s not just about the wealth you create by investing in it. For art investors, a diverse portfolio would prove to be more successful so keep an open mind and don’t be afraid for some pieces to lose value and some to gain, it’s healthy to create a balance. When an artist sells open edition prints, there’s no predetermined limit on how many prints will be offered. This does not mean that an art print will be available indefinitely, so when you discover art you love, it’s always a good idea to act on it.

Although printmaking involves reproducing an image, a print is more than just a copy of an original. Fine art prints are something else entirely, resulting from a close collaboration between the artist and the print studio. Printers — the people who work with the artist to produce an edition — are highly skilled technicians, and can be described as artists in their own right.

Prints are not made in large production runs intended solely for commercial sale, a limited number (known as an edition) are produced, with prescribed routes for initial sale — either through the artist, a commercial gallery or a publisher. As a result they are true works of art, and as important to the artist as drawings or other works on paper.

The printing process in itself is very interesting with the different methods and paper available, for example canvas prints are museum quality giclée (Pronounced “gee-clay”) reproductions, created using an advanced ink jet printing process specially designed to capture the look of painted pigments, and capable of reproducing more than 36 million colours. Where with screen printing, an image is cut into a sheet of paper or plastic film, creating a stencil. This stencil is then placed in a frame, which has a layer of fine mesh stretched across it, forming a ‘screen’. A sheet of paper is placed below the screen, and ink is pushed through the stencil from above, using a rubber blade or squeegee, only the cut-out portions of the stencil print. In addition to stencils, a photographic image can be reproduced on the screen using light-sensitive gelatins. This was a hugely important innovation for Andy Warhol and other members of the Pop generation, who would appropriate commercial photographs and popular images alongside the technique.

Fine art paper prints are also high quality giclée reproductions, which often features soft colour fidelity on a slightly textured surface similar to watercolour paper.

We can’t deny that art prints make investing in art more accessible. Take Banksy for example, imagine if there was just one original girl with balloon, it would make it impossible for some Banksy fans to invest in this iconic art piece as the cost would be extreme and only one lucky individual could be the owner. Prints present the opportunity to own an authentic and iconic subject without a seven-figure price tag attached to it. It is a great way to get started, a way to acquaint yourself with styles and artists in the same mode as other mediums but at a different price point.

Artists make prints for a variety of reasons, some might be drawn to the collaborative nature of the print studio, or the potential for innovation the medium offers, or for a print’s potential to document each stage of a creative process. Prints can offer a completely different creative outlet to the artist’s primary working method. Some artists consistently make prints throughout their entire career — Jasper Johns and Pablo Picasso are famously prolific examples. The choice of paper is an important part of the printmaking process because it can directly influence the nature of what the printed image looks like. Jasper Johns is famous for having pushed for higher quality, heavier paper for his prints, whilst Andy Warhol loved cheaper, thinner paper for his Soup Can prints from the 1960s to emphasise that they were meant to be enjoyed by the masses.

An artist may also produce a limited number of artist’s proofs, often marked A/P, that are identical in nature to the standard edition. Here again, fractions may be used to indicate the total number of proofs, and the print number (e.g. A/P 1/4). Other proofs may be made at an earlier stage, as the artist and printer develop an image or test different compositions. These are known as state proofs, trial proofs or colour proofs. These can be unique, with differences in colour combinations, paper types or size. Andy Warhol started to sell his trial proofs as unique colour-combinations separate from the edition, and they’re now some of the most coveted works in his print market.

Lastly, how you frame your print is the most important long-term decision you make when it comes to caring for and keeping the art piece. If a print has bright colours, don’t hang it in direct sunlight, ensure it is kept away from any source of moisture and don’t trim the sheet to try to fit it in a frame.

So, what steps should I take next?

Start your art collection here, Joe Webb’s latest print, ‘Dark Matter’ 5 colour silkscreen with glitter varnish, Somerset enhanced Velvet 410gsm Paper with an edition of 100, signed, titled and comes with a certificate of authentication.

Your First Look at the WOTC Big Beauty Summit 2022’s Purple Carpet

The one thing you can always be sure to expect at any WOTC event is that you will have an unrivalled, luxury experience and the Big Beauty Summit certainly didn’t disappoint.

WOTC Magazine hosted the Big Beauty Summit 2022 at the iconic Hotel Café Royal, where the opulence of Mayfair, the energy of Soho and sophistication of St. James combine.

Upon entering the Pompadour Ballroom, one of the largest ballrooms in London, with its 21st-century modernity and ornate detailing, guests were able to enjoy canapés and drinks as they greeted new and old faces, whilst pausing for a photo opp or three on the purple carpet, hosted by WOTC’s features editor Beverley Martins.

At the latter end of the ballroom, WOTC’s array of past and present beauty cover girls who included the likes of beauty mogul Bobbi Brown, British perfumer Jo Malone CBE and Jamie Kern Lima, founder of billion-dollar empire IT Cosmetics were creatively placed together, making for another picture-perfect opportunity, alongside the purple carpet.

Guests were spoilt for choice, with a final purple-themed, balloon backdrop which could be seen as they left through the large double doors of the ballroom, and stepped out onto the pillared outdoor terrace, with breathtaking views of central London.

Lucinda Strafford and Liberty Poole on the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Lucinda Strafford on the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Lucinda Strafford on the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Longest-standing First Lady of Belize, Kim Simplis Barrow on the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Longest-standing First Lady of Belize, Kim Simplis Barrow and daughter Salima on the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Longest-standing First Lady of Belize, Kim Simplis Barrow on the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Jojo Kelly on the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Snapchat’s Hannah Fisayo at the Big Beauty Summit

Beauty influencer Busola B and beauty entrepreneur Sarah B at the Big Beauty Summit

Liberty Poole at the Big Beauty Summit purple carpet

Enas Daeki at the Big Beauty Summit

Akash Mehta of Fable and Mane at the Big Beauty Summit

Phadria Prendergast and Akash Mehta of Fable and Mane at the Big Beauty Summit

Enas Daeki at the Big Beauty Summit

Model Fifi Anicah at the Big Beauty Summit

Michelle Feeney of Floral Street at the Big Beauty Summit

Here’s What Happened at the WOTC Big Beauty Summit 2022

Love Island stars Lucinda Strafford and Liberty Poole and the longest-standing First Lady of Belize Kim Simplis Barrow are among those who were in attendance at the event. From practical takeaways to inspiring quotes, here's everything to know…

WOTC held its annual women's conference, the Big Beauty Summit 2022 at the iconic Hotel Café Royal in their breathtaking Pompadour Ballroom, which opened out to a beautiful pillared outdoor terrace overlooking London's distinctive home of fashion, dining, wellness and lifestyle: Regent Street. 

The morning kicked off with their purple carpet hosted by WOTC features editor Beverley Martins, who welcomed and interviewed guests including Lucinda Strafford, Liberty Poole and Akash Mehta of Fable & Mane and sounds by international DJ, Furmzy. 

The aim of the summit? To inspire, educate and share insights and advice, whilst creating new opportunities and partnerships. 

Hosted by the WOTC team including editor-in-chief Phadria Prendergast, features editor Beverley Martins who spoke to guests on the ‘purple carpet,’ and political editor Mika Abrahams. 

The jam-packed schedule saw several WOTC Editors join leading beauty and thought leaders to hold insightful panel discussions, which included fun breakout sessions over the course of the day.

The most anticipated panel of the day? Lessons in Leadership, which saw First Lady of Belize Kim Simplis Barrow and Europe’s most influential thought-leader and philanthropist Pastor Tobi, deliver powerful key-note speeches. The panel was led by editor-in-chief Phadria Prendergast who was dressed in 16Arlington for the occasion. 

A close second was the ‘Pitch Your Beauty Business,’ panel which allowed four female founders the opportunity to pitch their business LIVE for their chance to win a £10,000 fund to help kick-start their business and 12 months’ worth of mentorship with a beauty leader. In the end, the fund was equally awarded to all four female founders and 3 months’ worth of mentorship each. 

Other panels included Beauty Influencing 101 which featured skin activist Kadeeja Sel Khan and Snapchat’s Hannah Fisayo; How to Build a Global Beauty Brand which featured Blink Brow’s Vanita Parti, and former as well as former beauty PR gurus Michelle Boon, founder of Seen Group and Michelle Feeney of Floral Street

Guests took home a goody bag full of their beauty favourites from WOTC sponsors who included REN, Benefit and Eylure.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Big Beauty Summit, and to those who missed it, subscribe to find out about our next event.

The goody bag at the WOTC Big Beauty Summit 2022 in London, was worth £258

There’s nothing quite like a FREE gift bag crammed full of products and discounts from your favourite beauty brands which included Eylure, Benefit, REN and Floral Street to name a few, which is what each guest at the much anticipated, sold-out WOTC Big Beauty Summit 2022 event took home. The exciting guestlist included Love Island favourites Lucinda Strafford and Liberty Poole, Fable & Mane’s Akash Mehta, skin activist Kadeeja Sel Khan, as well as several C-suite leaders from MAC, LVMH, Dior, Snapchat, and hundreds of female founders and aspiring beauty moguls

The Big Beauty Summit which took place on the 1st of July at the iconic luxury 5-star Hotel Café Royal, is a favourite for some of the world’s greats who include Oscar Wilde and Muhammad Ali, Winston Churchill and David Bowie, David Chipperfield and Albert Adrià. 

WOTC Magazine’s beauty line-up has already included some of the world’s biggest beauty leaders who include revolutionary beauty mogul Bobbi Brown; British perfumer Jo Malone CBE, renowned for her namesake multi-million-pound companies Jo Malone London and Jo Loves; Jamie Kern Lima, founder of billion-dollar empire IT Cosmetics; Maria Hatzistefanis, founder of cult beauty brand Rodial; Toni Ko, founder of NYX; Alexia Inge of Cult Beauty, the go-to destination for beauty discovery and incubating indie trends; global makeup artist Ruby Hammer; beauty revolutionist Sharon Chuter of UOMA Beauty; Vanita Parti MBE, founder and CEO of the iconic Blink Brow Bar and Samantha and Nicola Chapman who became the first YouTube beauty gurus and founded the Real Techniques.

REN, Glow and Protect Serum

Eylure, Cluster Effect, No.104

Eylure, Cluster Effect, No.174

Floral Street, Wonderland Bloom Scented Reeds

Polished London, Whitening Paste & Mouth Cleanse

20% of at Kalon Parlour

Benefit, 24-Hour Brow Setter

Elegant Touch, Nail Icons in Billboard Bae

Nails & Brows, Beauty Edit Mayfair, Brow Lift

£50 off at Allure House

5 Tips You Need for A Winning Wimbledon Look This Season

Words Bethany Boyo

Wimbledon season has come around again with its flurry of illustrious spectators and outfits alike. WOTC has 5 key tips for you to put together a winning outfit this season.

1. You can never go wrong with a suit. Bordering between formal and edgy, a suit can be dressed up and down to suit your Wimbledon style. Add chic flair to your outfit by going oversized with a striped shirt.

Credit: Tessa Thompson, in Polo Ralph Lauren at Wimbledon 2019. Getty Images

2. Go preppy for the win, with a pair of flared linen trousers, a striped cotton shirt and a cardigan to match!

Credit: Megan Markle, in Ralph Lauren at Wimbledon 2018. Getty Images

3. Add a splash of colour. White rules the day at Wimbledon, but with a splash of colour you can add some vibrance to a classic all-white outfit.

Credit: Adwoa Aboah at Wimbledon 2019

4. A jumpsuit is a sure-fire way to earn style points this Wimbledon season. Simple yet elegant along with a statement bag is a major key to this look.

Credit: Poppy Delevingne, in Ralph Lauren at Wimbledon 2021. Getty Images

5. Don’t be afraid to go casual! A pair of shorts, a shirt and a nice pair of trainers are a comfortable yet modish option for Wimbledon. We would also recommend adding a cardigan or jumper in case of an abrupt weather change.

Credit: Kendall Jenner, in Polo Ralph Lauren at Wimbledon 2019. Getty Images

All Aboard Fable & Mane’s ‘Mane Train’ Pop-up Store at Selfridges London

Words Amanda Okoye

WOTC had the pleasure of visiting Fable & Mane’s debut pop up in London on Friday afternoon and we were nothing less than impressed. The creativity and thought that was put into the event was evident; small details such as golden ticket scratch cards for their product giveaways and the Bob Bob Ricard-like “press for head massage” was a fantastic extra touch.

Fable & Mane, a traditional, clean, vegan and cruelty free hair company was founded by sibling duo Akash and Nikita Mehta. Available for purchase in the US, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and now, the UK, in just over 2 years, it is becoming one of the fastest-growing hair care brands in the world.

We caught up with Akash on the day to talk about the range, as Akash revealed to WOTC that the creation of the Fable & Mane product line came from Nikita experiencing hair loss and them wanting to find a solution. The pair had always loved traditional spices and oils because of their close relationship with their grandmother, and wanted to somewhat continue the family memory through infusing their traditions into their business. They also saw a lack of South Asian representation and natural formulations within the industry and wanted to change that.

Within the business, Nikita is considered the creative one, whilst Akash focuses more on the business side and marketing.

A personal favourite product within the line for Akash is the hair oil, stating it strengthened his hair. He added that when mixing a few drops of hair oil into the hair mask it prompts extra hair growth and just all-round healthier hair.

Customers can purchase Fable and Mane directly from their stockists Sephora, Cult Beauty and Boots. Visit their pop-up in Selfridges London on the ground floor until Wednesday 29th June 2022

WOTC’s Top Beauty Picks

Words Jessica Harris

From best-kept beauty secrets to hacks, we’ve got you covered.

Blemish + Age Cleansing Gel, Skinceuticals

As someone who is prone to hormonal breakouts and congestion, I need a cleanser that's going to keep working long after my skin has got used to it and that's exactly what this does. With exfoliating lipo hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, it leaves my skin feeling really clean without being dry and tight.

Vinoperfect Radiance Complexion Correcting Serum, Caudalie

The dark leftovers of a spot can be tricky to cover, especially when I like my make-up to feel as natural as possible so applying this twice a day is key to clear any pigmentation.

Hydration Replenish Microencapsulated Moisturiser, Rose Inc

I cannot love this brand any more! Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's skincare and make-up is non-comodegenic meaning it doesn't clog pores, and really delivers on all promises. This gel-like daily moisturiser is instantly cooling and leaves my skin plump all day.

Complexion Renewal Pads, ZO Health

These are my secret weapon to keep my skin clear and glowing every day. They soothe any irritation and balance out oil levels on the skin to keep congestion at bay. They're an absolute game-changer!

Z-22 Ultimate Face Oil, Zelens

Because my skin is prone to dehydration, I need a really nourishing face oil at night. This is packed with essential oils to improve the skin's elasticity and isn't too greasy so I don't ruin my bedding!

Daily Defence Shield SPF 30, Elemis

Come rain or shine, I never finish my skincare regime without an SPF. I've noticed a huge difference in the texture and tone of my skin since I started using one daily. This is lightweight, non-greasy and sinks in quickly making a great base for my make-up.

Luminous Silk Foundation, Armani Beauty

When looking for a base, I need something with buildable coverage that enhances, not hides, my skin. This is my go-to when I have a full-on day of events and meetings in London because it doesn't budge without being cakey.

Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard, Nars

I'm very particular about my concealer and I come back to this one time after time. Highly pigmented and light-reflecting, it hides a multitude of sins.

Complexion Rescue, Bare Minerals

Whether I'm working from home or jumping on a flight, I need my skin to be able to breathe. I've used this tinted moisturiser for years and it never disappoints for a natural, hydrated glow.

Lash Sophisticate, Code 8

As I have very long but straight lashes, a good mascara can instantly make me look more awake. This one from Code 8 is so natural without clumping and the brush allows me to be super precise -  I can even create a cat eye effect with it.

Modern Matte Lipstick in Vieve, Vieve

I'm not someone who is very adventurous with their make-up hues and you'd have a task to pry my nude lipsticks from me which is why I love Jamie Genevieve's formulas. Matte but not dry or flaky, the colours are natural but bold and all seem to suit my skintone perfectly. The pinks are next on my wish list for spring.

Five Best Skin Oils

Words Oriana Findlay

Skin oil has the sort of divisiveness that something like Marmite has; you either love it or hate it. Fans will tell you a good skin oil will hydrate, brighten and leave your skin looking and feeling smooth. As a self-confessed skincare junkie, and a massive fan of skin oil, I will tell you that these claims are not unfounded. In fact, scientists and skincare experts alike claim that skin oil is extremely beneficial in balancing and maintaining skin. In addition, they contain a number of antioxidants and vitamins, which help create a strong skin barrier and contribute to an overall better complexion.

Finding the right skin oil is not a one size fits all approach however. There’s an abundance of skin oils on the market and choosing between the myriad of options can become a little overwhelming. To make your life a little easier, I narrowed down the best skin oils so you don’t have to.

1.

Neo Sephiri Kalahari Melon Oil has high levels of Vitamin E, and helps repair skin and fight off free radicals like air pollution (perfect for women working in big cities!) Within a few weeks you can expect healthier, hydrated and smoother skin.

2.

Ren Bio Retinoid Youth Concentrate Oil contains a retinol alternative as well as rosehip which improves skin moisture and texture. It’s especially effective when used with Ren’s other products such as their Brightening Glow Daily Tonic.

3.

Elemis Superfood Facial Oil is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamin c. Fatty acids are important as they aid in cell repair, so result in smoother more supple skin. If you tend to have oily skin, this one is non-greasy and absorbs rapidly.

4. A’Kin Rosehip Oil improves skin texture with its antioxidant qualities. It absorbs quickly into skin and results in more nourished, hydrated skin - perfect for someone looking to try skin oil for the first time.

5.

Pixi Beauty Vitamin C Oil creates brighter, more radiant skin thanks to its star ingredient, vitamin C. This oil is also a particularly good primer as it preps your skin before makeup, creating a glowy and radiant base.

Highlights From the Platinum Jubilee

Beverley Martins

Her Majesty The Queen became the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee after 70 years of service, this year.

The four-day celebration included public events and community activities, as well as national moments of reflection on The Queen’s 70 years of service. Even citizens who were not celebrating still had the luxury of a long weekend. 

The long weekend kicked off, with a short film starring The Queen, in which she sat across a table from Paddington Bear, followed by a performer by the British rock group Queen, performed with Adam Lambert, their long-time stand-in for their late frontman, Freddie Mercury. 

Enjoyed the most by the sweet Prince George, Rod Stewart took to the stage to perform a cover of Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline”. We saw on camera the young Prince singing along with such joy. Andrew Lloyd Webber, The Cats and Evita creator took to the stage in a purple velvet suit to introduce a medley of his greatest hits, noting that the Queen’s “reign has outrun any West End show in history”.

We saw a host of runway models in designs from an eclectic mix of British designers, while the word “fashion” and silhouettes of mannequins were alternately projected onto the facade of Buckingham Palace.

The climate crisis was introduced by the 96-year-old nature documentarian David Attenborough, who delivered a heartfelt speech urging viewers to take this moment to reflect on one of the biggest challenges our world is currently facing.

Following Attenborough’s powerful words, Prince William took to a podium to announce that it would serve as a key facet of the royal family’s work moving forward. “As I watch those extraordinary images, it does make me think of all the monumental and pioneering work of so many visionary environmentalists that have gone before,” he said. “I’m in awe of people like the great Sir David Attenborough who look at the beauty and power of our Earth and then work to celebrate and preserve it.”

To end the celebrations, we were graced with performances from the “royal favourites” Elton John and Dianna Ross.

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022

WOTC Magazine

If you’re a flower and garden lover, you can agree that the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022 week was pure bliss! From the magnificent show gardens and the beautiful sculptures, to the blooming floral displays dressing the streets and storefronts of Chelsea, it was truly a royal celebration of the beauty of life, and a great tribute to Britishness, with commemoration to Her Royal Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

Some of our favourite memories of the event include walking through calming gardens under a canopy of glorious trees, not forgetting the smooth jazz band in the open air theatre, a glass of Pims lemonade in hand!  

We really enjoyed promenading through the array of quirky market stalls, with artists and gardeners alike, each one passionately presenting a beautiful showcase of vintage clay pots, botanical etchings and leather boots.

The talent displayed in the curated gardens were out of this world! One of our favourites were the tablescapes, which had a floral tea party theme, fully equipped with exotic flowers and beautiful china.

Some things we learnt whilst here were the importance of mindfulness, to slow down and enjoy the little things that make the outdoors so special, absorbing the sweet sherbet scents of the Elizabeth Rosa, hearing the gentle sound of the Japanese wind chimes and watching all those happy bumblebees, hopping from one flower to the next.

The innovations in garden design and sustainable gardening were incredible. It was an art form to observe designers creating interesting breeds of plants and new ways of reducing waste, conserving resources and building community through their exhibitions, many of which are being relocated for the wider public to enjoy.

The buzz of the community of garden lovers was electric! You could feel and hear the vibration of passion and awe in the crowd, the ladies in floral day dresses and the men chinos and straw hats, laughing and living life in the moment.

To the Royal Chelsea Hospital, thank you for hosting us! It was a pleasure to explore your beautiful grounds. We can’t forget the amazing impact you continue to make daily.

Here’s What the WOTC Editors Had to Say to Their Former Teachers on National Thank A Teacher Day

WOTC Magazine

In honour of #NationalThankATeacherDay, we say thank you to all the teachers who motivated and inspired us.. and not just in the classroom. To the teachers who became our parents away from home, and for some of us, the only role models we had. From moulding our young, impressionable minds with words to exercising the utmost patience, to showing us we could be far more than nominal, here's what the WOTC editors had to say about their former teachers.

I would like to thank my dissertation supervisor, for not only helping me to understand my topic, but also expanding my mind, to think beyond the letters in front of me. You saw that I had a heart for what I was writing and pushed me to come to a conclusion of my own, to trust my opinion and be confident in it.

Beverley, The Corner 

Dear Rachel Lamb 

You invested time and passion into your lectures and you built a rapport with us all. You were present during a pivotal point in my life, faced with the stress and confusion of university. I will always remember submitting my draft article for our module and you saying “you can write girl,” whilst giving me all the pointers to develop my work. I'm sure you were just being nice and that extra supporting tutor, but you instilled in me a sense of confidence and self-belief that will last a lifetime. So thank you; your brief presence in my academic journey has impacted me in ways I could only have imagined at the time.

Uyi, Fashion Editor 

I would like to thank my secondary school music teacher Ms Neckels. Ms Neckels was a teacher who helped me express my creativity and showed me that some of the things I never thought I was capable of doing were possible. Where other teachers doubted me, she showed how to be resilient.

Bethany, Fashion Editor 

I’d like to thank a very special teacher, Mr Ige, that I had the privilege to meet whilst I was studying at 6th form. What made him stand out was his wise words and his constant encouragement. It was the seemingly small yet powerful words, “I believe in you” that really ignited the confidence in me again. I didn’t have much belief in myself so it meant a lot. I was a student who had terribly failed my A-levels, but this teacher taught me about resilience. He taught me to not give up when faced with a knock, but to remain focused and determined to achieve my goals. He made mention that those grades didn’t define me. Those words kept me going throughout my several years of study and I still cherish and feed off those words today.

Hannah, Education Editor 

I want to thank Salim Vohra for the massive support during my 3rd year of university. During the stressful time of Covid, being in lockdown and  doing my dissertation, I received nothing but encouragement which led me to having a great result!

Aisha, Health Editor 

Thank you to my A-Level Product Design teacher who believed in my innovations and creativity! The support I received and my exploration through that course kickstarted my journey of discovery into the Construction Industry!

Barbara, Construction Editor 

I’ll never forget my maths teacher Ms. Ring, she made maths simple and relatable. She made me like maths (not my strongest subject), but I improved my grades in her class. I felt like I could accomplish anything in maths and the “hardest” questions, she gave me confidence to attempt. She adopted her teaching style to suit the needs of her class. 

Ms Odutola, my graphics teacher, was amazing. She was just a good role model all round. I never left her classroom without laughing. She inspired my creativity and she wasn’t judgemental. She made the classroom a relaxing environment.

Faith, Social Editor 

National Thank A Teacher Day

Words Hannah George

Many of us wouldn’t be who we are today without the teachers that believed in us.

I asked a number of people what made their ‘favourite’ teacher stand out from the rest. Here’s what was said:

• They made me happy

• They were welcoming

• They were relatable

• They made me laugh

• They made me feel confident

• They were non-judgemental

• They made things simple

• They were patient

• They were honest

• They listened to me when no one else would

• They were always happy and optimistic

• They made the classroom a relaxing environment

• They made me feel like I could achieve anything

• They focused on making sure I was happy rather than just being in class and learning

From these statements, it is clear that what makes a good teacher is not necessarily how well a student performs or how much they believe they learned in a subject. It is more than that. There is clearly more emphasis on soft skills, interpersonal (people) skills, communication skills, listening skills, time management, and empathy.

I believe that if we truly want to get the best out of our students, then we have to place more value and ensure the right measures and policies are in place to allow our teachers to be progressive both in their personal and professional development. Teachers globally go through different things to ensure their students are catered to, from taking money out of their salaries to buy better resources for kids, to financing their school meals, to using their ‘personal time’ on their days off and holidays to plan extensively to support and prepare engaging learning materials.

Teachers are more than just educators, they are in some cases mother and father figures, friends and role models. Teachers help to shape the minds of the next generation of leaders. They have a big responsibility on their hands and deal with more than what we could imagine.

Teachers are modern day superheroes. There are words that have been spoken to many of us that we still cherish to this day. Many of us are grateful to have met one teacher that truly believed in us.

I want to use this as an opportunity to thank all teachers worldwide. You have the power to change lives. Do not look down on your opportunity and gift to teach, inspire and encourage the next generation.

The Top 5 Exhibitions You Won't Want to Miss This Summer

Words Shemaiah Gold

One of the best things about visiting London are the world-class museums, galleries and exhibitions. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that nothing beats an in-person art encounter. This summer, London city is jam packed with the most insightful and creative exhibitions, whether you're in London for a short visit or just want to expand your creative mind. We've put together this guide for all the top exhibitions happening in London this summer so don't just enjoy the sun on the beach like everybody else, prepare to become enlightened by an array of the weird and wonderful world of contemporary art.

Kusama's Obliteration Room at the Tate Modern

23rd July – 29th August 2022 (Free)

Yayoi Kusama's interactive Obliteration Room begins as a white space which visitors are invited to cover with stickers. Over the course of a few weeks the room is transformed from a blank canvas into an explosion of colour, with thousands of spots stuck over every available surface.

Picasso Ingres: Face to Face at the National Gallery

3rd June – 9th October 2022 (Free)

For the first time ever a painting by Pablo Picasso (Woman with a Book, 1932) from the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, California, and the painting by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres (Madame Moitessier, 1856) which famously inspired it, will be shown side by side at the National Gallery, London as part of a special collaboration between the two institutions.

Our Time on Earth at the Barbican

5th May – 29th August 2022 (££)

The new show at London’s Barbican Centre takes us inside a tree and under the earth to encourage us to marvel at the biosphere and rethink our place within it.

‘Our Time On Earth’ urges us to demote ourselves from the top of the species hierarchy and consider how what we design could be attuned to the needs of all beings, not just our own.

Eternally Yours at Somerset House

16th June – 18th September 2022 (Free)

Showcasing diverse examples of creative reuse, from historical samples of the Japanese art of Kintsugi and Boro, which embrace upcycling and repurposing, to works from contemporary artists who put repair at the heart of their practice, Eternally Yours explores the unexpectedly hopeful and healing stories that repair reveals. In light of the recent global pandemic, the exhibition seeks to unpack how ‘repair’ can guide both our individual and collective healing.

Gold at the British Library

20th May – 2nd October 2022 (£)

Dazzling beauty, striking resilience. Gold has long held the power to ignite feelings of awe and wonder across cultures.

Take a journey around the globe to learn how gold elevated art in manuscripts and books. Discover the masterful techniques used to handle such a precious metal. Examine items that are hundreds of years old.

Unveil the stories illuminated by gold.

Preparing for the Summer Sun

WOTC Magazine

The sunscreen you need to protect you whilst you enjoy the incoming Summer sun rays, as recommended by the WOTC team.

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Spf 30, £25.20

Anthelios Uvmune 400 Invisible Tinted Fluid Spf50+ Sun Cream, £18.00

Shiseido Expert Sun Protector Face & Body Lotion SPF50+, £34.00

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate SPF30 Lotion, £14.49

Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF50, £22.00

Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ for Face, £6.99

Spring Clean Your Sanity

Words Amie Elizabeth White

Spring cleaning might not be at the top of your to-do list, but your health and wellness definitely should be, and now is the perfect time to work on it. The lighter, brighter days are a mood-booster for most, but there is more that you can do to improve and take control of your mindset, to level up your energy, and to take a little bit more care of your emotional and mental state this season. Just like when you go on a detox diet to flush the toxins from your body, a little detox for the mind goes a long way. We’ve broken it down into 5 priorities. Get ready to put the Spring back into your step!

Priority 1: The Digital Detox

We know the benefits of connectivity and communication. We wouldn’t be who/what we are without it! But taking a conscious break from your devices might just be the most beneficial thing you do this week.

1. Put your phone in another room for the day. We are all guilty of mindless scrolling, of checking our messages every 5 minutes or being attached to our work when we really shouldn’t be. Leaving your phone in another room will allow you to really disconnect and avoid temptation, freeing you up to do other things or to focus on the task in front of you. Social media can be so draining, and taking some time away from this will remind you who you are and what YOU prioritise in life (and that isn’t somebody else’s life)

2. Switch off the television. Its great to wind down with a bit of television in the evening, but doing this every single night is not the best way to spend your time. It takes away your ability to be truly present in the moment. By switching the television off, you free up your time and your energy. You can enjoy every mouthful of your dinner, whilst sipping on your favourite glass of wine. You can talk to your partner, and engage in the conversation fully. It will also allow your body to wind down for the evening properly, giving you a better nightssleep which will benefit you the next day.

3. Spring clean your Feed! When you get back on your phone or device, unfollow anyone who doesn’t add anything positive to your life. Make your time online a productive and positive experience. This applies to your inbox too. Unsubscribe to that which offers nothing to you. This will help maintain your inbox, reduce wasted time, and remove the endless “unreads” that clog your mind.

Priority 2: Get Outside!

1. If you want to see an improvement in your overall physical and mental health, to reduce stress levels, increase energy levels and quiet the mind, getting outside is one of the most beneficial things you can do. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a coffee in the sunshine or a run along the river in the morning, getting outside will release some positive endorphins, cleanse the mind and soul of the Winter blues, and will add some mindful movement to your day.

Priority 3: Tie Up Loose Ends

1. The social calendar. Have you got event invitations that you haven’t responded to? Have you got a friend you were supposed to contact but still haven’t got back to them? All it takes is 5 minutes time to RSVP or drop someone a line, tick it off your to-do list, work on those essential relationships and have a great time whilst doing it.

2. Do your errands! The actual process of Spring Cleaning can be quite a chore, but the mental benefits of a clean and tidy space, as well as the feeling of accomplishment when it’s complete, is a relatively painless way to boost your mojo and clear your mind, giving you one less thing to think about, and an environment free of mess.

Priority 4: Self-Awareness & Mindfulness

1. One of the best things to do to realign and prioritise your self is by setting a Spring Intention. Take an inventory of what you want this season to look like for you, where you want to grow, what you want to achieve. Find a key word that resonates with you and your intentions, then write it up somewhere where you can see it to remind yourself of your intention every day. By having it clearly written, you have a clear goal and a level of accountability to achieve it.

2. A useful tool for detoxing the mind is to unload it all, whether in your journal or with a friend. Saying it all out loud will help you to see things more clearly, to figure out where things are going wrong, and relieve you from the stress of holding it all inside. Reflect on what is said or written. Are the emotions associated with these thoughts benefitting you? Are they allowing you to be the best you can be? If not, then action them, and if you can’t action them, let them go.

3. Take a moment to be present. Life is so fast, so busy, and even when we are doing nothing, we seem to be thinking about everything that we should be or will be doing soon. Spend a moment to just stop. Bring your attention to where you are, who you are, and what you’re doing right now. By learning to direct your attention to the present, you can learn to let go of the background noise, free up your mental bandwidth and allow you to focus on the task, or the enjoyment, that you get to experience right now.

Priority 5: Sleep it Off

We cannot emphasise the importance of a good night’s sleep, and we don’t have the time to tell you every single amazing benefit you will reap when prioritising your night, so here’s a few to get you going:

• It is essential for your brain and ALL aspects of your brain functions.

• It will improve your concentration and productivity.

• It can help enhance athletic performance and lower your risk of injury.

• It reduces the risk of developing diabetes and insulin resistance.

• Lack of sleep can impact your immune functions.

• It will boost your mood, your motivation and your mindset

• It will help to regulate your emotions and allow you to engage fully in events and relationships.

5 priorities to switch up your Spring, detox your mind, and Spring into life!