Hello all, we are hoping to bring out a seasonal magazine with the Kilkenny People and we will be filling the pages with mad crazy shoots. If you are a promising model, tall, small, skinny or curvy, and would like to do some interesting shoots, get in touch. We don't pay, but we will give you prints for your portfolio.
Email me on blanaid@ehp.ie, or call (083) 303 8133, or (056) 7703312, if you are successful, you could be starting on the road to beauty stardom! Or not.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Kate Moss, London - Paris - Carlow?
Most of you will know that my brother is the Kilkenny People photographer, Eoin Hennessy.He sometimes gets to do the glamorous jobs, an example of which came on the back of a phone call from the Irish Mirror to say that Kate Moss was on her way down to the Babyshambles gig in Carlow, and could he get a couple of shots. Off he went, got the shots, and now we are waiting to see who picks them up.
It's a really interesting side to the game, you can see why paparazzi get a kick out of their job. I'm sure Kate doesn't really like being photographed 24/7, after all she is just a woman in nice clothes...it's a bit weird.
Eoin did a good job, he's always very polite, so he managed to get close enough. He's quite unimpressed by the whole celebrity thing, so I reckon he'll be sticking to the sports shots...
A Fresh Coat
Here is the text for this Wednesday's page, all about your number one investment this season....
A Fresh Coat
A coat is one of those items that deserves a little investment. A good coat can accentuate a figure, draw attention and compliments, keep you warm, and give you a little thrill of ownership each time you put it on. A bad coat, however, makes you look like a walking sack of potatoes or a tablecloth, is not warm, makes your skin itch, and fills you with a school child’s stubbornness of not wanting to put on your coat.
This year, spend a little to love a lot, anything from €100 to €200 is a decent amount to hand over, anything above is a real treat, anything below is either a wonderful bargain, or a waste of money that will hang in your wardrobe for the next few years, unworn because it’s unloved.
No matter what your shape is, there is a coat that was made for your figure. Designers admire different silhouettes, it’s just a matter of discovering who loves yours enough to flatter it through their cuts. Style itself also loves different shapes, each era throwing up an icon that defines it, and a look that inspires the rest of us. There are many different styles this season that will dominate the stores, from Twiggy to Masculine to Tweed, no one will be untouched by the fashions that will sweep over us. Just remember, when dealing with these latest inspirations and trends, it’s not about fashion, it’s about style. Never sacrifice a wonderful cut and fit for a trend that may not suit you.
The Shoot
This week we welcome Emma Holohan back to the modelling fold. She is currently amusing herself with the frivolities of education, which means she can only do the occassional shoot during the school year. I mean, what about your priorities Emma, what’s education compared to getting to do the odd shoot for the Kilkenny People? Joking.
She is a wonderful model, professional and great craic. Her sallow skin and caramel toned hair complements our Swedish looking blonde Rachel, also from Kilkenny, who has been gracing these pages of late with her unique beauty. I know the girls are a little embarrassed when I say how great they are, but they do us such a service here at Style, and the shops in Kilkenny as well. They model the clothes available to perfection, I hope that their work is appreciated by any store that they so immaculately represent.
From left to right, Emma is wearing a cream soft wool Mac style coat from Benetton on High Street. This comes highly recommended, I think it is a superb addition to any wardrobe. Think of all the things it will go with, trousers, skirts, boots, shoes, anything. Emma is wearing tweed wide legged trousers from Oasis, and a bottle green polo neck from Vero Moda. The tan round toed shoes are from Faith.
Rachel looks remarkably like Grace Kelly in this beautiful black coat from Coast in Goods. Again, it is a soft wool mix, decadent in it’s comfort. I think of shapes like this as “opera” style, so classic and sophisticated. It is collarless, yet has wide lapels, a look which creates an unfussy line that highlights the neck. There is a wide sash tie, that can be knotted or bowed, depending on your taste. The width of the tie makes your waist look tiny. The skirt of the coat is full and turned under in a tulip style, it is such a exquisite creation, it is one of my ‘yearn for’ pieces of the year. The black patent shoes with Christian Louboutin style red soles are from Wallis, in the Market Cross. Wallis is being feted as this seasons one to watch, similar to how Debenhams new lines were received last year. They are being commended for their value, colour and fit. Wait a little while for their Autumn range to come in fully, and then go mad. We will be doing a feature on them in the Weekender in two weeks time.
Through the trickery of magical photography, Emma is back in the frame modelling this 1960’s inspired red boiled wool trapeze coat, from MiMi on High Street. The colour is vibrant, the cut is perfection, and the buttons are a bit of fun. Combined with this cute black beret with brooch detail, and stunning black jersey dress with puff sleeves, both from Oasis, and the black patent shoes from Wallis, we have created that alludes to this era, without coming over all beatnik. I like to think of it as what the Parisians were wearing in the Sixties.
Rachel returns with another key look for the season, tweed and deconstruction. Praha on High Street are known for stocking the edgier labels, and this coat is no exception. In a subtle tweed, with a great cut, and unfinished raw details all over, this coat is a great supplement to a winter wardrobe, adding a splash of fashion without being overly trendy. The fake fur detail on the collar adds warmth and texture. The jeans are from Benetton and are a marvelous fit and style, and also very reasonably priced.
So, make the most of the chillier season, and show off your taste with a coat that will last you a lifetime. Don’t be afraid to invest, and don’t be afraid to try on at least twenty different coats before settling on the one you love. Much like choosing a husband.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Tempted?.
Tempted on John Street...
Wow, what a popular page this was, even though there was a mistake in the printing, and it ran on the front and back of a page instead of across two page. Not to worry, I didn't cry....much.
The owner of this shop is a true Style icon in the making, one of those girls you want to get birthday presents from, because you know they will be the best, most beautiful present ever.
Anyway, pop down for a visit if you're near John Street. It has quite an eclectic range in store.
Here is the text from that page..
Last week I mentioned that Rose Inn Street and John Street were slowly becoming a new town centre, with a fantastic collection of new stores appearing in their fabulousness on this new walkway. They will soon lead the pedestrian shopper from High Street to the Train Station Shopping Centre, and all the savvy people are pitching their tents before the main event begins.
One such retail genius is Julie Harvey, the proprietor, buyer, merchandiser, manager and all round brains behind Tempted? on John Street. Based in the old post office beside Langton’s, she has done a spectacular job on the overall look of the store. With a new face of sage green and luminous pink, the once jaded looking building now pops out of the row of buildings, and the façade alone endorses the title of the shop, it tempts you in. I could go on and on about the marvelous interiors, but this is about style, so expect to see a Tempted interior feature in this very paper shortly.
THE STORE
Tempted? Is described as a shop for women from twenty odd years of age up, who “don’t follow trends, yet have passion for beautiful clothes in gorgeous fabrics.” I personally am an advocate of any store who sells stylish, individual pieces, instead of overloading our minds with rakes of fashion that can blow our minds, wallet and wardrobe door. I am trying to train myself to buy one beautiful piece a month, and with the introduction of tempted into an already wonderful market in Kilkenny, my resolve to adopt this shopping method has suddenly become better.
The price ranges vary, and, having checked it out myself, I feel they are very fair priand reasonable, particularly for the quality of the stock. There were items to suit every budget, and the fact that you can place deposits, helps those of us who may want to soften the blow to our bank account on one day. I would definitely prefer to spend two hundred euro on a beautiful coat I will keep forever, than on four coats at fifty euro, that will end up keeping my wardrobe warm instead of my back.
We must stop this accumulation disease that is running rife through our wallets and minds. Why do we gather so many piles of “stuff”. We are not celebrities, who feel that they can’t be photographed in the same thing twice, and anyway, even with these mounds of material spilling out of laundry bins, hot presses, closets and from under beds, we tend to rotate the same twelve or so pieces continuously. So, why not shove the surplus stock towards the second hand shops, and start again.
Another bonus down at Tempted? is that styles will be limited to avoid the miniature nightmare of walking in to a club or restaurant, feeling spanking new, and finding three other women wearing some part of your outfit. Certain items will be completely unique, so you will have a little haute couture in the Marble City.
Tempted? stock the Danish designer Malene Birger, and Irish designers such as Joanne Hynes and John McCormack. Another label is Custo Barcelona, a
Spanish range which is also stocked in Brown Thomas. Sanimi is a super range which provides tailored elegance in Italian wools and silks. This range is designed by an former Alexander McQueen designer.
There is also an exceptional selection of bags and accessories, sourced from around Europe, some of which are limited edition pieces.
The back room of the shop has a selection of hats another pieces such as handmade soaps from Rose Acre soaps in Enniscorthy and felt cushions and bags by Maeve Coulter, a local designer who is based in Castlecomer Design Yard.
An innovative aspect to this store is the development of a private styling room, upstairs. This is a magnificent space, providing all the ease and comfort of your own house, with the expert help of Julie, and a whole shopful of clothes to choose from.
Tempted will help you define your own look, if you wish, and keep you up to date with new pieces that they know you will love. You can enjoy a light lunch while you are treated to a personal shopping experience. Pure bliss in my mind.
The space itself is beautifully decorated, spacious with fantastic views. It is a wonderful addition to the business.
The top floor is going to be a holistic treatments room, as Julie is a Pilates instructor. So, you can get a full shopping event, pick up a new wardrobe, a couple of textiles for your home, enjoy some food and wonderful conversation, pop up for some therapies, and leave, knowing that it can all begin again next week.
THE SHOOT
This is my favourite shoot that we have done for Style. Our photographer, Eoin Hennessy, design technician Michael Lennon, and myself worked on this panoramic image extensively, creating the perfect looks, poses, lighting and creative background. The models, Aine, Julie and Rachel are as good as any of your professionals, following direction exactly.
From left to right, Aine is modeling an ideal work, or semi formal look. The silk shirt is a leotard style, which draws the material smoothly over the waist and hips. This removes unwanted material bulk, and accentuates the midriff. The double collar, featuring a chiffon ruffled outer collar, rests perfectly against the jaw line, defining and framing the face and neck. Combined with a high waisted tweed skirt, and drop necklace, this outfit is crowned, literally, by this remarkable fancy for the hair.
Julie is wearing, very well, this Danish style navy dress, with a drop waist and wide sleeves. It features a polka dot slip, and comes with a complementing scarf, that can be worn any which way you like. It is a beautiful piece.
Rachel models this glittering gold hounds tooth design cropped jacket. This is such a well done piece, not too over the top, ideal for this casual style, or for dressing up a plain black dress on a night out. The jeans are a wonderful fit.
Aine is looking quite 1980 in this next ensemble, the striped top has an open back, and can be worn like this over good thick leggings, or as a dress over tights. You can also wear it casually over jeans.
On the next page, Julie is modeling this amazing black overcoat, which sports a run of buttons, and a full skirt. We chose to show it as a dress, but it is faultless as a piece for any wardrobe.
Rachel shows this dress to perfection, with a structured design and nude chiffon paneling and arms, it is a classic style. It highlights the collar bone and defines the waist, yet doesn’t cling to the thighs.
Aine is back with a more mature look. This forest green polo neck is perfect for her colouring. The skirt, gold lace over a flesh colored underskirt, has been pulled up high on the waist, accentuating the bust, waist and hips perfectly. The necklace, created with beads of similar tones, balances the sparkle quotient of the outfit.
Finally, Julie is representing the Seventies style ski era, with a delectable wool cardigan, complete with velvet wired tie. This is a comfortable, snug addition to a winter wardrobe, wear it over your black office skirt or trousers, over jeans, over a little white skirt on a night out, with anything really.
All of the amazing footwear came from the Pink Room on William Street (up by the old cinema), a store which complements the style of Tempted and other boutiques in the city. The shoes are of fantastic quality and creation, and ideally supplemented each of our overall looks.
The makeup was done by the very talented Helen in O’Connell’s pharmacy on High Street. I gave her the brief of movie star lips, and heavy dark eyes, to create a mood of identity and glamour for the shoot. She is remarkably gifted at make up artistry, talk to her if you are confused about the whole cosmetics world. She used Shiseido products, a personal favourite of mine, whose skincare specifically is second to none.
……..So, the answer to the question? Yes, I am tempted…
Photography - Eoin Hennessy Photography
Background design - Michael Lennon
Styling and Hair - Blanaid Hennessy
Makeup - Helen in O’Connell’s Pharmacy, High Street, using Shiseido.
Shoes - The Pink Room, William Street.
Wow, what a popular page this was, even though there was a mistake in the printing, and it ran on the front and back of a page instead of across two page. Not to worry, I didn't cry....much.
The owner of this shop is a true Style icon in the making, one of those girls you want to get birthday presents from, because you know they will be the best, most beautiful present ever.
Anyway, pop down for a visit if you're near John Street. It has quite an eclectic range in store.
Here is the text from that page..
Last week I mentioned that Rose Inn Street and John Street were slowly becoming a new town centre, with a fantastic collection of new stores appearing in their fabulousness on this new walkway. They will soon lead the pedestrian shopper from High Street to the Train Station Shopping Centre, and all the savvy people are pitching their tents before the main event begins.
One such retail genius is Julie Harvey, the proprietor, buyer, merchandiser, manager and all round brains behind Tempted? on John Street. Based in the old post office beside Langton’s, she has done a spectacular job on the overall look of the store. With a new face of sage green and luminous pink, the once jaded looking building now pops out of the row of buildings, and the façade alone endorses the title of the shop, it tempts you in. I could go on and on about the marvelous interiors, but this is about style, so expect to see a Tempted interior feature in this very paper shortly.
THE STORE
Tempted? Is described as a shop for women from twenty odd years of age up, who “don’t follow trends, yet have passion for beautiful clothes in gorgeous fabrics.” I personally am an advocate of any store who sells stylish, individual pieces, instead of overloading our minds with rakes of fashion that can blow our minds, wallet and wardrobe door. I am trying to train myself to buy one beautiful piece a month, and with the introduction of tempted into an already wonderful market in Kilkenny, my resolve to adopt this shopping method has suddenly become better.
The price ranges vary, and, having checked it out myself, I feel they are very fair priand reasonable, particularly for the quality of the stock. There were items to suit every budget, and the fact that you can place deposits, helps those of us who may want to soften the blow to our bank account on one day. I would definitely prefer to spend two hundred euro on a beautiful coat I will keep forever, than on four coats at fifty euro, that will end up keeping my wardrobe warm instead of my back.
We must stop this accumulation disease that is running rife through our wallets and minds. Why do we gather so many piles of “stuff”. We are not celebrities, who feel that they can’t be photographed in the same thing twice, and anyway, even with these mounds of material spilling out of laundry bins, hot presses, closets and from under beds, we tend to rotate the same twelve or so pieces continuously. So, why not shove the surplus stock towards the second hand shops, and start again.
Another bonus down at Tempted? is that styles will be limited to avoid the miniature nightmare of walking in to a club or restaurant, feeling spanking new, and finding three other women wearing some part of your outfit. Certain items will be completely unique, so you will have a little haute couture in the Marble City.
Tempted? stock the Danish designer Malene Birger, and Irish designers such as Joanne Hynes and John McCormack. Another label is Custo Barcelona, a
Spanish range which is also stocked in Brown Thomas. Sanimi is a super range which provides tailored elegance in Italian wools and silks. This range is designed by an former Alexander McQueen designer.
There is also an exceptional selection of bags and accessories, sourced from around Europe, some of which are limited edition pieces.
The back room of the shop has a selection of hats another pieces such as handmade soaps from Rose Acre soaps in Enniscorthy and felt cushions and bags by Maeve Coulter, a local designer who is based in Castlecomer Design Yard.
An innovative aspect to this store is the development of a private styling room, upstairs. This is a magnificent space, providing all the ease and comfort of your own house, with the expert help of Julie, and a whole shopful of clothes to choose from.
Tempted will help you define your own look, if you wish, and keep you up to date with new pieces that they know you will love. You can enjoy a light lunch while you are treated to a personal shopping experience. Pure bliss in my mind.
The space itself is beautifully decorated, spacious with fantastic views. It is a wonderful addition to the business.
The top floor is going to be a holistic treatments room, as Julie is a Pilates instructor. So, you can get a full shopping event, pick up a new wardrobe, a couple of textiles for your home, enjoy some food and wonderful conversation, pop up for some therapies, and leave, knowing that it can all begin again next week.
THE SHOOT
This is my favourite shoot that we have done for Style. Our photographer, Eoin Hennessy, design technician Michael Lennon, and myself worked on this panoramic image extensively, creating the perfect looks, poses, lighting and creative background. The models, Aine, Julie and Rachel are as good as any of your professionals, following direction exactly.
From left to right, Aine is modeling an ideal work, or semi formal look. The silk shirt is a leotard style, which draws the material smoothly over the waist and hips. This removes unwanted material bulk, and accentuates the midriff. The double collar, featuring a chiffon ruffled outer collar, rests perfectly against the jaw line, defining and framing the face and neck. Combined with a high waisted tweed skirt, and drop necklace, this outfit is crowned, literally, by this remarkable fancy for the hair.
Julie is wearing, very well, this Danish style navy dress, with a drop waist and wide sleeves. It features a polka dot slip, and comes with a complementing scarf, that can be worn any which way you like. It is a beautiful piece.
Rachel models this glittering gold hounds tooth design cropped jacket. This is such a well done piece, not too over the top, ideal for this casual style, or for dressing up a plain black dress on a night out. The jeans are a wonderful fit.
Aine is looking quite 1980 in this next ensemble, the striped top has an open back, and can be worn like this over good thick leggings, or as a dress over tights. You can also wear it casually over jeans.
On the next page, Julie is modeling this amazing black overcoat, which sports a run of buttons, and a full skirt. We chose to show it as a dress, but it is faultless as a piece for any wardrobe.
Rachel shows this dress to perfection, with a structured design and nude chiffon paneling and arms, it is a classic style. It highlights the collar bone and defines the waist, yet doesn’t cling to the thighs.
Aine is back with a more mature look. This forest green polo neck is perfect for her colouring. The skirt, gold lace over a flesh colored underskirt, has been pulled up high on the waist, accentuating the bust, waist and hips perfectly. The necklace, created with beads of similar tones, balances the sparkle quotient of the outfit.
Finally, Julie is representing the Seventies style ski era, with a delectable wool cardigan, complete with velvet wired tie. This is a comfortable, snug addition to a winter wardrobe, wear it over your black office skirt or trousers, over jeans, over a little white skirt on a night out, with anything really.
All of the amazing footwear came from the Pink Room on William Street (up by the old cinema), a store which complements the style of Tempted and other boutiques in the city. The shoes are of fantastic quality and creation, and ideally supplemented each of our overall looks.
The makeup was done by the very talented Helen in O’Connell’s pharmacy on High Street. I gave her the brief of movie star lips, and heavy dark eyes, to create a mood of identity and glamour for the shoot. She is remarkably gifted at make up artistry, talk to her if you are confused about the whole cosmetics world. She used Shiseido products, a personal favourite of mine, whose skincare specifically is second to none.
……..So, the answer to the question? Yes, I am tempted…
Photography - Eoin Hennessy Photography
Background design - Michael Lennon
Styling and Hair - Blanaid Hennessy
Makeup - Helen in O’Connell’s Pharmacy, High Street, using Shiseido.
Shoes - The Pink Room, William Street.
Wednesday's page is full of health
You read it here first.... obviously enough...
Here is the main body of text for Wednesday's page (the 20th of September), read on if you want some motivation to change your lifestyle...
Waist not, want not.... a Style guide to healthy living.
Almost every female celebrity has been asked to define her diet, her exercise regime and her genetics so that the interview’s thirsty readers can then, presumably, scurry off and apply her way of life to their own.
My favourite answer, though rarely heard, is “eat less, move around more”.
Now, I know some will groan and say, well, we know that, now give us the secrets! The 500 euro treatments! The new secret Star diet! The amazing new fitness class!
I could continue in exclamation marks, but really, the truth is so boring. You eat everything you like in moderation, and exercise appropriately. The truth, however, doesn’t make a good headline, or excite our weary brains. Many magazines continue to lure their readers with “My amazing weight loss!” and “Celebrity weight plan!” stories. These “celebrities” careers often exist purely because of how much their weighing scales read and how succinctly they can discuss each pound of flesh.
In future, when reading the latest Big Brother or Soap Star dietary recommendation, do like MC Hammer told you, and break it down. What gems of information are they really offering? …“ I work out a bit, I eat vegetables, I don’t eat a lot of sweeties, and I work my ass off racing from TV studios to radio stations to publishers, so I can tell them all about what I ate today! Aren’t I just a pure child genius!” Aren’t they just…
Their plans are so groundbreaking, almost as revolutionary as the Atkins, where you completely eliminate starch from your diet, and amazingly lose weight. Or what about that really clever one where you don’t eat a pile of junk food and sweets every day, and then somehow, miraculously, once again, lose weight!
Yes, I sound cynical, that’s because I am. There is no such thing as a quick fix, the problem is always lifestyle. You don’t have to have a problem with your weight to have a bad lifestyle. I don’t need to lose weight, but I also don’t exercise at the moment, or eat vegetables. Yes, I’m blessed that these factors don’t find their way to my backside in a massive amount, but I do tire easily and am completely unfit. So, today I embark on my new lifestyle. Good food, gym going and fresh air, can’t you just smell the good intentions.
So this is directed to all of you, whether you want to lose or gain weight, tone up, wake up or shake it up. Here are a few, what I hope are, sensible offerings of advice. Lets make Wednesday the 20th of September “Lifestyle Day!”. Or not…
-Decide why it is that you want to lose weight, or change your lifestyle, and what you hope to achieve from it. Keep that in mind when you veer back towards your previous unhealthy habits.
-Always discuss any change of lifestyle with a doctor you are comfortable with, and, if possible, a qualified nutritionist. This is the best money you will spend, with considered professional advice and information, there is no need to stuff yourself full of celebrity soliloquy’s.
-Talk to your family, and make sure there are some guidelines in place that will help you with willpower and motivation. There is no real point on you embarking n a wonderful new lifestyle, if you are being dragged down by swill munching, sedentary spouses or offspring.
-Take it easy on yourself, many people take a long time to adapt to a new way of life, whether its dietary or exercise. You will not be able to run a marathon by week two, or always say no to the offer of a second slice of cake. Who cares, you are making an effort every day, that is what’s important, not every minute.
-Find a form of exercise you are happy with, be it gym going, walking the road or salsa class. If you can’t make time for organized activity every day, then implement daily or weekly routine changes - swap the Hoover for a sweeping brush, the lift for the stairs, the car for a bike.
…(P.S. A word of advice to my wonderful road walkers, please consider your route carefully, some roads are just not safe to walk along. When deciding, think about the width of the grass verge and traffic visibility. Also, if the route is isolated, please bring a mobile phone with you, just in case you twist your ankle or any other situation arises.)
-Apply some rules or mantras to your life, that you use when eating out, shopping, or just at the start of the day. Now, repeat after me;
“WAIST NOT, WANT NOT” - This applies to those of you who have been taught to clear their plate, no matter what. As you are an adult now, remember, you do not have to finish the food if you are already full to the point of suffocation. I know it is a “waste“, but I would prefer to waste a couple of cents worth of food, than feel uncomfortably full. Drop the guilt, it’s okay to be full.
“EAT WHEN YOU’RE HUNGRY, STOP WHEN YOU’RE FULL” - This is a good relation of the above, but one you should apply every day. It is pretty straightforward. As you are unwrapping your elevenses treat, ask yourself if you are actually hungry, or are you just reacting to a routine. If you are popping in slices of toast late at night, think about it, do you actually feel hungry, or are you just bored or fidgety? Comfort eating is also a big problem, try to see food as a fuel for the body, rather than a provision of comfort. This habit can grow out of your control, so don’t be afraid to seek help and advice whenever you need it.
“WATCH FOR THE SNACK ATTACK” - Many nutritionists say that people snack when they are thirsty, not hungry. As most of us do not supply our bodies with the hydration it needs, this is usually the case. So, next time you pick up a Mars Bar, try a bottle of water first.
“EAT LESS, MOVE AROUND MORE” - you should try and qualify your calories, match your amount of exercise to the food you consume daily. So, if you go to a party and stuff your gills, then add an extra mile to your walk, or go to an extra class, instead of wallowing in guilty self pity. Just get up and get over it.
“CENTS SENSE”- Never ever scrimp on food quality. Never choose the lesser quality product because it is two euros cheaper. Think of all the money you spend on gym fees, nutritional supplements, diet plans, I guarantee it is considerably more that the accumulation of cents you have saved by feeding your body, and often your family, with cheaper, possibly unhealthy food.
I don’t necessarily mean always buying organic, although that would be wonderful, I mean the good quality meat, fresh vegetables, the interesting healthy food that you are afraid to put in your basket in case you don’t like it. Buy it, try it, if you don’t like it, you don’t buy it again. Easy. Decision made.
“EVERY DAY IS A START” - Okay, I am beginning to sound a little comme le Doctor Phil, but listen, if you go off the rails, track or path, don’t fret. Tomorrow is another day, learn to laugh at your slip ups, while recognizing them as exactly that, slip ups. So you didn’t get some exercise today, plan tomorrow‘. Yes, perhaps you will, one tired evening, inhale a Chinese, Maltesers and a KitKat. Just don’t have them for breakfast the next day as well. Never be consumed by a diet or lifestyle. Never get obsessed or overly concerned, just try and make it a very good habit.
The fact is, responsibility for our health must begin with ourselves. So, lets forget the fad diets, the celebrity endorsements, the magic potions, or the elixirs of instant slimness. It’s not about weight or food or running or worrying. It’s just making a decision to be healthier. It’s about getting the best out of life, and that means getting the best out of your body, so that you can enjoy that life to the fullest and healthiest that you can. I’m not going to stop eating chocolate, and I’m not going to ask you to do that either. All I’m saying is that we should all have a little think about our lives and bodies, what we want from them, now and in the future.
Scary information of the week.
Johnny Logan is back, he of Eurovision eh…fame, is now an r&b artist, with a remix of one of his winning entries Hold Me Now. Seriously. It’s renamed Don’t Cry, and features a real live rapper, Kaye Styles. The video is causing much hilarity on you tube, with baggy trousers a go go. The battle between Westlife and Take That? Forget it, this one is better, Hasslehoff V Logan. Bring the heat boys.
www.youtube.com
Here is the main body of text for Wednesday's page (the 20th of September), read on if you want some motivation to change your lifestyle...
Waist not, want not.... a Style guide to healthy living.
Almost every female celebrity has been asked to define her diet, her exercise regime and her genetics so that the interview’s thirsty readers can then, presumably, scurry off and apply her way of life to their own.
My favourite answer, though rarely heard, is “eat less, move around more”.
Now, I know some will groan and say, well, we know that, now give us the secrets! The 500 euro treatments! The new secret Star diet! The amazing new fitness class!
I could continue in exclamation marks, but really, the truth is so boring. You eat everything you like in moderation, and exercise appropriately. The truth, however, doesn’t make a good headline, or excite our weary brains. Many magazines continue to lure their readers with “My amazing weight loss!” and “Celebrity weight plan!” stories. These “celebrities” careers often exist purely because of how much their weighing scales read and how succinctly they can discuss each pound of flesh.
In future, when reading the latest Big Brother or Soap Star dietary recommendation, do like MC Hammer told you, and break it down. What gems of information are they really offering? …“ I work out a bit, I eat vegetables, I don’t eat a lot of sweeties, and I work my ass off racing from TV studios to radio stations to publishers, so I can tell them all about what I ate today! Aren’t I just a pure child genius!” Aren’t they just…
Their plans are so groundbreaking, almost as revolutionary as the Atkins, where you completely eliminate starch from your diet, and amazingly lose weight. Or what about that really clever one where you don’t eat a pile of junk food and sweets every day, and then somehow, miraculously, once again, lose weight!
Yes, I sound cynical, that’s because I am. There is no such thing as a quick fix, the problem is always lifestyle. You don’t have to have a problem with your weight to have a bad lifestyle. I don’t need to lose weight, but I also don’t exercise at the moment, or eat vegetables. Yes, I’m blessed that these factors don’t find their way to my backside in a massive amount, but I do tire easily and am completely unfit. So, today I embark on my new lifestyle. Good food, gym going and fresh air, can’t you just smell the good intentions.
So this is directed to all of you, whether you want to lose or gain weight, tone up, wake up or shake it up. Here are a few, what I hope are, sensible offerings of advice. Lets make Wednesday the 20th of September “Lifestyle Day!”. Or not…
-Decide why it is that you want to lose weight, or change your lifestyle, and what you hope to achieve from it. Keep that in mind when you veer back towards your previous unhealthy habits.
-Always discuss any change of lifestyle with a doctor you are comfortable with, and, if possible, a qualified nutritionist. This is the best money you will spend, with considered professional advice and information, there is no need to stuff yourself full of celebrity soliloquy’s.
-Talk to your family, and make sure there are some guidelines in place that will help you with willpower and motivation. There is no real point on you embarking n a wonderful new lifestyle, if you are being dragged down by swill munching, sedentary spouses or offspring.
-Take it easy on yourself, many people take a long time to adapt to a new way of life, whether its dietary or exercise. You will not be able to run a marathon by week two, or always say no to the offer of a second slice of cake. Who cares, you are making an effort every day, that is what’s important, not every minute.
-Find a form of exercise you are happy with, be it gym going, walking the road or salsa class. If you can’t make time for organized activity every day, then implement daily or weekly routine changes - swap the Hoover for a sweeping brush, the lift for the stairs, the car for a bike.
…(P.S. A word of advice to my wonderful road walkers, please consider your route carefully, some roads are just not safe to walk along. When deciding, think about the width of the grass verge and traffic visibility. Also, if the route is isolated, please bring a mobile phone with you, just in case you twist your ankle or any other situation arises.)
-Apply some rules or mantras to your life, that you use when eating out, shopping, or just at the start of the day. Now, repeat after me;
“WAIST NOT, WANT NOT” - This applies to those of you who have been taught to clear their plate, no matter what. As you are an adult now, remember, you do not have to finish the food if you are already full to the point of suffocation. I know it is a “waste“, but I would prefer to waste a couple of cents worth of food, than feel uncomfortably full. Drop the guilt, it’s okay to be full.
“EAT WHEN YOU’RE HUNGRY, STOP WHEN YOU’RE FULL” - This is a good relation of the above, but one you should apply every day. It is pretty straightforward. As you are unwrapping your elevenses treat, ask yourself if you are actually hungry, or are you just reacting to a routine. If you are popping in slices of toast late at night, think about it, do you actually feel hungry, or are you just bored or fidgety? Comfort eating is also a big problem, try to see food as a fuel for the body, rather than a provision of comfort. This habit can grow out of your control, so don’t be afraid to seek help and advice whenever you need it.
“WATCH FOR THE SNACK ATTACK” - Many nutritionists say that people snack when they are thirsty, not hungry. As most of us do not supply our bodies with the hydration it needs, this is usually the case. So, next time you pick up a Mars Bar, try a bottle of water first.
“EAT LESS, MOVE AROUND MORE” - you should try and qualify your calories, match your amount of exercise to the food you consume daily. So, if you go to a party and stuff your gills, then add an extra mile to your walk, or go to an extra class, instead of wallowing in guilty self pity. Just get up and get over it.
“CENTS SENSE”- Never ever scrimp on food quality. Never choose the lesser quality product because it is two euros cheaper. Think of all the money you spend on gym fees, nutritional supplements, diet plans, I guarantee it is considerably more that the accumulation of cents you have saved by feeding your body, and often your family, with cheaper, possibly unhealthy food.
I don’t necessarily mean always buying organic, although that would be wonderful, I mean the good quality meat, fresh vegetables, the interesting healthy food that you are afraid to put in your basket in case you don’t like it. Buy it, try it, if you don’t like it, you don’t buy it again. Easy. Decision made.
“EVERY DAY IS A START” - Okay, I am beginning to sound a little comme le Doctor Phil, but listen, if you go off the rails, track or path, don’t fret. Tomorrow is another day, learn to laugh at your slip ups, while recognizing them as exactly that, slip ups. So you didn’t get some exercise today, plan tomorrow‘. Yes, perhaps you will, one tired evening, inhale a Chinese, Maltesers and a KitKat. Just don’t have them for breakfast the next day as well. Never be consumed by a diet or lifestyle. Never get obsessed or overly concerned, just try and make it a very good habit.
The fact is, responsibility for our health must begin with ourselves. So, lets forget the fad diets, the celebrity endorsements, the magic potions, or the elixirs of instant slimness. It’s not about weight or food or running or worrying. It’s just making a decision to be healthier. It’s about getting the best out of life, and that means getting the best out of your body, so that you can enjoy that life to the fullest and healthiest that you can. I’m not going to stop eating chocolate, and I’m not going to ask you to do that either. All I’m saying is that we should all have a little think about our lives and bodies, what we want from them, now and in the future.
Scary information of the week.
Johnny Logan is back, he of Eurovision eh…fame, is now an r&b artist, with a remix of one of his winning entries Hold Me Now. Seriously. It’s renamed Don’t Cry, and features a real live rapper, Kaye Styles. The video is causing much hilarity on you tube, with baggy trousers a go go. The battle between Westlife and Take That? Forget it, this one is better, Hasslehoff V Logan. Bring the heat boys.
www.youtube.com
Welcome!
An introduction to Style.
Welcome to blanaid.com, the website that aims to represent the style sectors in the Marble City.
Most of you will know that I write the pages in the Kilkenny People and the Weekneder, I hope you enjoy the pages, feel free to offer some feedback here on blanaid.com.
I hope to run competitions, have an online store and provide news and updates in the not so distant future, and on a regular basis.
For now, please enjoy our gallery of shoots, download a pdf of a page, link to our website, read our past columns, or ask for some advice.
Feel free to chat amongst yourselves, and help each other out with style decisions. Rate the good shops in town, who offers the best service, or who is the master hairdresser or beautician. Comment on style in Kilkenny, who's wearing what, and who shouldn't be wearing that. Have a rant about your boyfriend, a moan about your work or plug your own designs.
Most of all, enjoy Style....and check back with us often.
B
Welcome to blanaid.com, the website that aims to represent the style sectors in the Marble City.
Most of you will know that I write the pages in the Kilkenny People and the Weekneder, I hope you enjoy the pages, feel free to offer some feedback here on blanaid.com.
I hope to run competitions, have an online store and provide news and updates in the not so distant future, and on a regular basis.
For now, please enjoy our gallery of shoots, download a pdf of a page, link to our website, read our past columns, or ask for some advice.
Feel free to chat amongst yourselves, and help each other out with style decisions. Rate the good shops in town, who offers the best service, or who is the master hairdresser or beautician. Comment on style in Kilkenny, who's wearing what, and who shouldn't be wearing that. Have a rant about your boyfriend, a moan about your work or plug your own designs.
Most of all, enjoy Style....and check back with us often.
B
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