Latest news with #PaloSanto
Los Angeles Times
6 days ago
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Miranda Kerr's Morning Face Routine Revealed
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. When a press release from KORA Organics landed in our inbox detailing Miranda Kerr's personal skincare routine, it read like a wellness diary. The founder, supermodel, and certified health coach is her own best case study, layering her high-performance, certified organic skincare line every morning with the precision of a facialist and the intention of a yogi. 'Ever wondered what Miranda actually uses on her skin every day to achieve that luminous glow?' the release teased. Turns out, it's not a 10-step routine, it's a few thoughtfully chosen essentials designed to brighten, energize, and protect. 'I created KORA Organics because I couldn't find products that were certified organic, results-driven, and aligned with my values,' Kerr shares. 'I use every single product in my line, I'm obsessed with moisturizing and making my skincare ritual something that gives back to me.' Here's exactly how she starts her day, and why her morning lineup might just upgrade yours. Kerr kicks off her day with the Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser, a brightening wash infused with peppermint and Palo Santo. 'It clears your energy,' she says. 'I really look forward to my routine because it feels like it gives back to me.' Peppermint invigorates, turmeric calms, and the aromatherapy? Consider it a morning meditation. The turmeric-based formula calms inflammation while lifting away overnight oil and sweat, which is especially important as warmer weather kicks in. Dermatologists increasingly recommend adjusting cleansers with the seasons, as the skin can shift from dry to oily as temperatures rise. Next comes the Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum, powered by Kakadu Plum, one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C on Earth. 'I've been using this daily for about six months and have noticed a huge difference,' Kerr says. 'It's helped soften fine lines and reduce pigmentation from pregnancy.' The result? Brighter, firmer skin that looks like it had a full night's sleep (even if you didn't). What makes this formula stand out is Kakadu plum, one of nature's most potent sources of vitamin C. It offers all the brightening and collagen-supporting benefits of synthetic serums but with a gentler, plant-based twist. And yes, science backs it up: Kakadu plum has made multiple lists of most effective skincare ingredients, thanks to its impressive antioxidant profile. This rich cream doubles as skincare and a subtle luminizer, thanks to turmeric extract and licorice root. 'I wanted to create a super-luxurious face cream,' Kerr explains, 'that bathed your skin in radiance while targeting dark spots and fine lines.' If you love a moisturized glow that plays well under makeup, this one's your ride-or-die. It also taps into one of the most consistent findings in dermatology: hydrated skin ages better. Moisture is key in preserving elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines. And this moisturizer hits both notes, restoring water content while delivering a visible glow. Kerr wraps her morning ritual with Silky Sun Drops, a certified organic SPF that was five years in the making. 'It doesn't leave a white cast and gives your skin a beautiful, dewy glow,' she says. Plus, it wears like a dream under foundation, consider it the high-performing SPF your makeup bag's been missing. It's a final protective step that doubles as a highlighter, leaving skin radiant, not greasy. Miranda Kerr's morning routine is a lesson in quality over quantity. Each product multitasks with purpose, backed by plant science and her personal stamp of approval. It's less about chasing glow and more about cultivating it, layer by certified organic layer. Because when a supermodel shares her skincare secrets (and uses them herself), you listen. Click here to learn more about Kora Organics
Hindustan Times
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Clandestine bars with imaginative food, Speakeasys is a trend here to stay
The trend of speakeasys is here to stay. With several elusive spots opening up across the country, this new way of drinking has had a resurgence. Once a hidden, clandestine bar with a secret entrance that allowed entry to only a chosen few who knew the magical word for fear of being discovered by authorities, speakeasys are now a cultural phenomenon. Earlier, these establishments used to serve just about any alcohol to paying customers, as it was prohibited by law. But nowadays, these secretive bars focus on honing their bartending skills to produce experimental drinks that are enticing yet fun, with ingredients that will leave you wondering how did they get their hands on it. Even with the food, chefs allow their imaginations to run wild. If you are in Mumbai and want to try a taste of Delhi's f&b scene, mixologists from Hoot's and Margaret's Eye, two bars in the capital, will be doing a bar takeover at ness at Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai. It will be taking place on May 9 from 7pm onwards. Ranked #18 of India's Top 30 Best Bars 2024, Hoot's is a speakeasy known for telling a story through cocktails, while it's sister bar, Margaret's Eye brings nostalgic Tiki-style drink to customers ready to experiment. Cocktail enthusiasts can try out some of Hoot's offerings, including Robert's Ancestrals, which is a blend of whisky and coffee liquor with a finesse of Fernet Branca, or #30, a refreshing gin-based cocktail with Palo Santo cordial. From Margaret's Eye's menu, one can sip on Wild Risotto, which is a blend of vodka and sparkling water with porcini mushrooms and parmesan cheese, along with Maracuyay – a tangy punch of tequila and mezcal with passion fruit and lime overtures. A special menu of tapas has been curated for this occasion that pairs well with the cocktails. HTBS
Forbes
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Best Tequilas For Sipping, According To Bartenders And Beverage Directors
For a lot of drinkers, tequila still conjures up memories of rushed shots, salt, and a regrettable night. But here's the truth: good tequila deserves better. The best tequilas — the ones crafted carefully, without additives, and made from fully mature agave — aren't made for shooting. They're made for sipping. Like a fine Scotch or bourbon, a great tequila deserves to be savored: slow, thoughtful, and full of layered, evolving flavors. Whether you prefer a pure, clean blanco or a rich, barrel-aged añejo, sipping tequila opens up an entirely different—and far better—experience with the spirit. I spoke to bartenders, beverage directors, and agave experts about their favorite tequilas for sipping. Here's what they recommend—and why these bottles deserve your full attention. 'When choosing to sip on tequila rather than making a cocktail with it, you're making the conscious effort of wanting to taste the process of tequila distillation,' says Nicolette "Nikki" Bonkowski, Bar Lead at Whiskey Neat in Fort Lauderdale. For Bonkowski, finding a good sipping tequila means starting with quality: 'You'll want to seek out qualities that include 100% agave and additive free.' She recommends Lalo Blanco, describing it as smooth, balanced, and full of toasted agave sweetness—so much so that "you won't need or want to add anything to it." Chef Richard Sandoval, of Richard Sandoval Hospitality, shares a similar affection for blancos. 'I've always gravitated toward blancos. They're the purest expression of agave—the soul of tequila in its most honest form," he says. Among his favorites are Lalo Tequila and Tequila Deferente. Lalo, he says, 'delivers brightness and elegance with each sip," while Deferente captures the beauty of highland agave, "crisp, floral, and layered with minerality." In other words: if you're new to sipping tequila, a blanco is a pure, honest place to start. While blancos show the raw beauty of agave, reposados and añejos offer a deeper, more layered experience—without masking the spirit's soul. Reposado means "rested" in Spanish, and these tequilas are aged in oak barrels for anywhere from two months to one year. The aging process softens the fresh, vegetal notes of the agave and adds subtle layers of vanilla, caramel, spice, and sometimes light oak without overpowering the spirit's natural character. Añejo tequila, meaning "aged," is barrel-aged for one to three years, developing a deeper color and richer flavors like toffee, baking spice, roasted agave, and dark chocolate. Orestes Cruz, bar lead at Palo Santo in Atlanta, recommends Tierra de Ensueño Single Barrel Reposado (Wheated Bourbon Cask) for sipping, describing it as 'balanced sipping tequila with apple, cinnamon, oak, toffee, vanilla, and cocoa notes." He adds, "Tierra de Ensueño has a buttery mouthfeel with a warm baking spice finish. I enjoy this tequila in a glass with a large ice cube." For a slightly richer expression, Danny Garcia, Assistant General Manager at Lady Jane in Denver, turns to Wild Common Reposado. 'At 43% ABV, it is slightly higher proof than most tequilas on the market, but higher proof doesn't equate to more burn,' he explains. 'The slightly higher proof allows more nuance and flavor to be present and experienced while sipping. For me, this tequila smells of butterscotch and faint tobacco and tastes like spiced caramel.' If you're looking for something to impress even the toughest critics, Fortaleza might be the answer. Jordan Joseph, Beverage Director at Crawford Hospitality, compares Fortaleza Anejo to the "Pappy Van Winkle" of tequila: hard to find, highly prized, and worth every drop. "It offers a great balance of Fortaleza's agave spirit and barrel influence," he says, with driving flavors like 'Werther's Caramels, white peppercorn, vanilla gelato, and green cardamon.' Justin Parramore, Beverage Manager at Old Pueblo Cantina in Chicago, champions Fortaleza Reposado for its incredible texture and universal appeal. 'There's a subtle note of sweet spice that balances the savory quality of the cooked agave, and a nice almost oily texture to add some interest to the glass. I've never seen this tequila disappoint.' If you're looking for hidden treasures that sip beautifully without the heavy price tag, the pros have their favorites too. Augusto Lino, Bar Manager at Noir Bar, recommends La Gritona Reposado, noting that it's all about balance: 'They're not trying to hide the tequila behind secondary notes from oak barrels; they are simply using the six months of aging to soften the vegetable essence of their original product.' Bonus: it's a woman-owned, additive-free brand. Rio Azmee, General Manager at Bar Moga, suggests keeping Herradura Anejo Ultra chilled in the freezer for a smooth sipping experience. 'It has flavors of cooked agave, caramel, honey, and toasted almond which makes it perfect for sipping," he says. Meanwhile, Alexa Roberson, bartender and beverage manager at C&S Oyster Bar in Atlanta, applauds Inspiro Tequila, praising not only its clean flavor but the fact that it's woman-owned and additive-free—a meaningful combination for today's conscientious drinkers. Blur bottles of spirits and liquor on bar counter getty For those who like their spirits with a little story (and a lot of aging), Fuenteseca offers some of the finest sipping tequilas on the planet. John Cooper, General Manager at Vagabond DC, swears by the Fuenteseca Reserva Extra Anejo 21 Year, appreciating its complexity: 'I enjoy the varying niche notes due to the way it was aged both the barrels and in two different climates which gives it a unique flavor profile.' For something a little more approachable (but no less extraordinary), Oscar Ramirez of The Hideaway in Beverly Hills recommends the Fuenteseca Reserva 7 Year, calling it 'super smooth, full of deep flavor,' and noting, "you can taste how much care went into it. It's truly a tequila made for sipping, not shooting." Additional favorites from experts include Don Fulano Blanco, praised by Amber Bruce of The Keefer Bar for its richness and creamy texture despite a slightly higher proof. Amir Babayoff, Bar Director at Ophelia in NYC, agrees, calling Don Fulano "a standout sipping tequila with rich, full-bodied depth and no additives," layered with notes of "agave, vanilla, tropical fruit, herbs, pepper, and minerals." Tequila Ocho Reposado also earns a spot on the list for those who want a softer, lightly aged profile. As JoanRose Caguiat, Director of Beverages at The Ridley House, puts it: 'Tequila Ocho Reposado is a standout sipping tequila because it highlights the true essence of agave while layering in subtle oak aging. It's smooth, vibrant, and lightly sweet, with notes of cooked agave, tropical fruit, and soft spice.' Even spicier takes on tequila, like Tanteo Chipotle, have their moment. Ivan Vasquez, owner and bar manager at Mayahuel in Queens, calls it 'easy and smooth to sip and gives a pleasant chile heat that's not overwhelming," noting its mild smokiness adds a unique character to the glass. This Cinco de Mayo, leave the shot glasses behind. Instead, celebrate with a truly great tequila: one that showcases pure agave flavor, craftsmanship, and complexity. Whether you choose a bright blanco like Lalo or Don Fulano, a rich reposado like Tierra de Ensueño or Wild Common, or a long-aged beauty like Fuenteseca, one thing is clear: great tequila deserves more than salt and lime. It deserves your full attention. Because when you sip it slowly, you realize tequila isn't just a drink—it's an experience.
Emirates Woman
11-04-2025
- Business
- Emirates Woman
The Rug Company Bungalow on the business of craftsmanship
Kate Judd, Managing Director at The Rug Company, and Rabah Saeid, founder and creative director of Dubai-based design studio, Styled Habitat, on the business of craftsmanship and weaving an experience beyond retail for human and brand connection. Kate Judd, Managing Director at The Rug Company, and Rabah Saeid, founder and creative director of Styled Habitat What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? Kate Judd (KJ): My morning routine is my time to ground myself for the day ahead. I start with a coffee and love sitting on my balcony, taking in the view of Zabeel Palace. The Arabian light never gets old for me, especially since moving from New York. Lately, I've been listening to business and fashion podcasts as I ease into the morning. I use this time to reflect on the person I want to be that day – and how I should dress to match that energy. Do I need to channel power in a BOUGUESSA blazer with statement jewellery, or am I dressing for a beautiful day hosting guests in The Bungalow's garden? This routine is sacred to me, especially as my schedule becomes more demanding. Rabah Saeid (RS): I love a slow morning. I intentionally wake up early, around sunrise, to savour my ritual. To awaken my senses, I light Palo Santo wood or a candle and practise deep breathing to cultivate calmness and ground myself. Then, I settle into a chair with a cup of tea – my only opportunity for stillness throughout the day. As an interior designer, my days are filled with varied tasks and constant interaction. From collaborating with my team to meeting clients, overseeing contractors, and visiting project sites, there is never a dull moment. The demands are endless, the pace relentless. My morning routine is a deliberate act of self-preservation in the face of a demanding day. The stillness of the early morning hours offers a sanctuary of peace, allowing me to navigate my work with greater presence and intention. How did you start off in this industry? Talk to us through your career journey. KJ: I started my career working for an antiques store that supplied pieces to Ralph Lauren stores, which is where I first discovered my passion for curating unique pieces to shape immersive experiences. In 2012, I joined The Rug Company in London to help launch a new concept for the Chelsea Flagship showroom. Over time, my passion for visual merchandising and showroom design led me to take on the role of Visual Merchandising Director. I then went on to create over 15 showrooms globally, from London to New York, Cape Town to Moscow, and more. Each project allowed me to blend local cultures with our brand's identity. Naturally, I transitioned to managing The Rug Company's franchise and distribution network, overseeing over 20 partners worldwide. This role combined my love for travel, business development, and relationship-building. In the past two years, I've focused on repositioning The Rug Company in the Middle East, helping shape our presence in this incredible market. RS: Growing up, I was surrounded by intellectual conversations and diverse perspectives, fostered by eclectic dinner parties and a home filled with an appreciation for beauty and travel. This instilled in me a deep love for design. Despite this, I was on track to pursue a degree in medicine until I moved to the U.S. and discovered my passion for interior design while decorating my own space. Curating tablescapes and hosting gatherings ignited a creative spark I had never considered as a career. This realisation led me to pivot. I returned to school and earned a degree in interior architecture. My design career began in Houston, Texas, working on high-end residential projects, historical homes, and multi-family developments in Houston, Dallas, Aspen, and New York. In 2012, I moved to Dubai, where my regional journey continued to evolve – from workspace solutions to hospitality design in Marrakech, Morocco – ultimately leading to the founding of Styled Habitat in 2016. What is the design DNA and core philosophy of the brand and how does it differ from the rest? KJ: At its heart, The Rug Company is about artistry, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Our in-house studios in New York and London create pieces that transcend trends – each rug is meticulously handcrafted by killed artisans, taking months to perfect. It's the antithesis of mass production. But a rug is more than just a decorative piece – it symbolises warmth, hospitality, and tradition. We understand that our creations become treasured parts of our clients' lives, enriching the spaces where meaningful moments unfold. RS: Design is deeply personal – at Styled Habitat, our design philosophy centres on creating spaces that are both emotionally resonant and enduring. We believe that the interplay between understated elegance, sensual allure, and a feeling of belonging is key to achieving this. Our approach is rooted in an appreciation for the richness of history, the significance of context, and the transformative power of storytelling. We create environments where people can expand their experiences and feel truly at home. Tell us more about the concept behind The Rug Company Bungalow. RS: Nestled in the heart of Jumeirah, The Rug Company Bungalow marks a milestone as the brand's first standalone store in the Middle East. This enchanting boutique is a masterclass in nostalgic elegance, seamlessly blending vintage charm with contemporary sophistica- tion. Paying homage to the mid-century villas on Al Wasl Street, built in the 1980s, the design amplifies the villa's distinct architectural characteristics. The iconic pitched roof and the connection to the outdoors are celebrated, revitalising the bohemian and eclectic style reminiscent of old-school Palm Springs glamour. This design approach gives the Bungalow a timeless and stylish charm. KJ: The Bungalow is a space designed to be more than just a showroom – it's a place for conversations, collaborations, and creative exchange. We wanted to move away from the traditional retail model and create an environment that feels more like a beautifully designed home, where people can experience our rugs in a more personal way. The space also doubles as a cultural hub, hosting talks, installations, and intimate gatherings for our discern- ing clientele and the region's design and art community. Since launching in late November, the events we've hosted have surpassed even our highest expectations for The Rug Company's new home in Dubai. How did you know it was the right time to launch this and what was the catalyst? KJ: For many years, we were fortunate to have the amazing Arwa Hafiz from The ODD Piece representing us. When she decided to move on to her next chapter, it gave us the perfect opportunity to officially bring The Rug Company into the UAE, a market that has shown us so much love over time. It was the perfect time to establish our official presence. The UAE is such an exciting place to be, especially in the design world. The talent here is incredible – visionaries like Rabah are shaping the region's design landscape – and we're already seeing how much we can grow by collaborating in this inspiring space. The space evokes the charm of 1970s architecture blended with the bohemian glamour of Palm Springs. Did you envision this aesthetic from the outset? RS: Styled Habitat's thoughtful design transforms the Bungalow into a warm and inviting retreat, evoking the quintessential retro lifestyle of the 1950s and '60s. A design alchemy allowing design to unfold piece by piece material by material. Earthy tones, rich textures, and natural materials harmoniously blend, paying homage to the mid-century villas lining Al Wasl Road. The design studio me- ticulously incorporated the villa's history and context, highlighting its distinctive architectural features. The pitched roof, a hallmark of mid-century design, is reimagined with cleverly integrated air vents. Meanwhile, arched windows frame breathtaking views of Moroccan- inspired gardens, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. The space puts craftsmanship at the forefront. What are some of the design touches that make it unique? RS: The Rug Company Bungalow transcends traditional retail, serving as a haven for design enthusiasts. This meticulously curated space invites exploration, inspiration and connection. As a beacon of style and sophistication, it brings a fresh perspective while maximising the potential of the space, further solidifying Jumeirah as a hub for luxury and design innovation. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a sun-drenched conversation pit, a nostalgic centrepiece that embodies the essence of retro chic. The adjacent Cushion Display Room showcases an exquisite collection of hand-woven wool and silk cushions, crafted by renowned designers. Each piece reflects an unwavering commitment to quality and artistry. Creating tangible moods and moments that speak to the notion that we can all transcend the ordinary simply by stepping through a well-designed space. KJ: Aside from our jewel-box Cushion Room and 70s-inspired sunken lounge Rabah has mentioned, my favourite design moment is the enclosed palm tree that we have. It's viewed from most points inside the Bungalow, and it's a testament to Rabah's visionary yet playful design sensibility. It has become symbolic of The Bungalow and always reminds us of the Dubai beyond whenever we're spending our day there. How challenging was it to implement this and how did you achieve this in such a location? KJ: The Rug Company Bungalow was definitely a labour of love. This was one of the most challenging yet deeply reward- ing projects of my career. Collaborating with Rabah's vision was key in creating a space that feels like home – a sentiment our guests often share upon arrival. We couldn't have asked for a more inspiring environment to showcase our rugs, helping people envision how they could elevate their own personal spaces. RS: Renovating a space always comes with unforeseen challenges. In the case of the Bungalow, the tight timeline was the main hurdle. Thankfully, our client Kate, with her extensive experience opening showrooms internationally was very understanding and supportive. The developer, Huna Living, provided incredible support and believed in our vision and championed the project from the start. Lastly, the tireless efforts of Hannah Bower-Brooks and her team at Cherwell Interior were instrumental in transforming the dilapidated space into a stunning space. The end result is something truly unique – when you step into the Bungalow, you feel both fully immersed in the environment and transported to another time and place. The Rug Company Bungalow is designed to be a showroom and modular creative hub. What are the services being offered? KJ: From the moment guests walk through the door, they're met with the highest standard of service – something Dubai expects, and we deliver. Our team takes the time to understand each client's space or project, offering thoughtful suggestions tailored to their needs. We offer personalised consultations, a white-glove service with at-home rug approvals, and the opportunity for clients to be fully involved in creating a bespoke rug – from concept to completion. Hospitality is just as important to us as design and ensuring that every guest feels at home has been a priority from the very beginning. This is The Design Issue – what is the first design that has left an impression on you? RS: I have such a passion for everything under the design umbrella – art, fashion, landscaping, travel, nature, architecture, and graphic design. There are so many facets to explore. One of the most profound design impressions I've had was seeing the early experimental works of Charles & Ray Eames at MoMA in New York City. Their approach – that design is primarily about process rather than a final product – serves as a great reminder to stay curious and never stop questioning the design journey. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Olly Alexander says expressing his sexuality was met with ‘extreme resistance' and ‘hostility' from record label
has spoken about the pushback he's received over the course of his career when it's come to expressing his sexuality in his music and visuals. Alexander, speaking in an exclusive interview , was asked about whether he had noticed that despite led by acts like , and , the same interest does not appear to exist for explicitly queer music from men. 'Well,' Alexander says, 'it's not gone unnoticed that I was much more popular when I was in a band with two straight people.' The former Years & Years frontman was then asked if he'd had to fight to express his sexuality how he wanted over the years, to which he responded: 'Yes! When the label saw [the visuals for] Palo Santo, which was Years & Years' second album, they were like, 'What the fuck is this?'' 'They didn't get it,' Alexander continued. 'And I don't need them to get it. But this is the music industry. It's a fucked up game.' He went on to explain that he felt he had earned his label's trust after the huge success of Years & Years's debut album Communion. 'Our debut album had sold millions. I'd recouped for my record label. But I felt like the choices and creative decisions I was making were being met with extreme resistance and, sometimes, some hostility. I suppose, they were thinking that I was about to take a machete to my marketability. But fuck it.' Elsewhere in the interview, the singer had commented on the criticism his performance at last year's Eurovision had received from some who felt it was too sexualised. '[People] were so outraged. I expected some pearl-clutching, but I was a bit taken aback by how many pearls were clutched.' To read Olly's cover interview in full, check out issue 363 of Attitude magazine, , and alongside 15 years of back issues on the free . The post Olly Alexander says expressing his sexuality was met with 'extreme resistance' and 'hostility' from record label appeared first on Attitude.
