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Yearly Archives: 2018

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Spring has sprung and we are getting excited to bring out the sandals and the flip flops! (Even if it's only indoor for now since the weather is still very much in winter mode…)

Colourful, futuristic or embellished, this season's shoes will give a modern twist to our outfits. Here are some of the pieces we just cannot wait to wear.

Clear plastic

Missguided clear heeled ankle boot €60.81

Zara black high-heel sandals, €49.95

Colourful stilettos

River Island yellow faux leather court shoe €48.00

H&M suede court shoes €49.99

boohoo pointed toe mid heel courts €27.00

Curvy heels

Mango heel leather sandals €69.95

And Other Stories pointed slingbacks €89

Strass embellishment

New Look strap gladiator sandals €32.99

Futuristic sneakers

Sandro trainers with flames €195

Zara contrasting chunky sole sneakers €49.95

adidas Originals deerupt trainers €108.10

All white

Monki slingback kitten heels €30

H&M ankle boots €39.99

Cowboy boots

Topshop western ankle boots €98.00

Zara black leather ankle boots with snakeskin-effect €79.95

 

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RTÉ has announced a new season of natural history programming, celebrating our stunning wild island, across Sundays in spring on RTÉ One.

Viewers will get their first taste of what to expect in a brand-new promo which will debut during the first ad break on the Late Late Show tonight (Friday 6 April). Fronted by passionate programme-makers, the season – airing in April and May – will celebrate wildlife in a number of ambitious new documentaries and series, and encourage the public to take part in a variety of ways through online and social media. 

The first series to air will be the much-anticipated Ireland’s Deep Atlantic, which sees underwater cameraman Ken O’Sullivan embark on a series of voyages out into the open North Atlantic in search of large whales, sharks and cold water coral reefs 3,000 down on Ireland’s deep sea bed.

The two-part series will document many of these creatures’ behaviour for the first time in any TV programme and investigate the health of our deep Atlantic waters. This is an area inhabited by the largest animals ever to have lived on Earth, by some of the most beautiful, strangest looking, resilient and fascinating life forms on the planet and ecosystems.

The documentary series has become a partner in ground-breaking scientific research, sharing resources and collaborating with research scientists, which, to date will result in five scientific research publications, an unprecedented number for a TV documentary. The series will air on Sunday 22 April on RTÉ One.

Ken O’Sullivan said: ‘I spent the summers of my youth on Fenit Island, Co. Kerry fishing with my father, swimming, gathering carrageen and periwinkles, anything just to be on the shore and in the water. I love exploring and learning about our natural world, discovering new areas and trying to understand how creatures behave, how eco-systems function. '

'There are hundreds of thousands of species of flora and fauna in our seas, 17 species of whales have been seen in Ireland and we encountered and documented six of these during production.’

On May 13, a new four-part series A Wild Irish Year offers perfect Sunday evening family viewing on RTÉ One, with each show featuring the glories of wild outdoor Ireland through one beautifully filmed season. From wildlife to weather, from farming cycles to nature’s ancient rhythms, the series features the changes sweeping across our green island throughout one year.

Produced for RTÉ by Crossing the Line (makers of the acclaimed Wild Ireland, The Farthest and The Secret Life of the Shannon), the presenting team of Tara Shine, Rob Gandola and Eoin Warner showcase some of our most spectacular natural events and meet a diverse range of people whose livelihood depends on the natural rhythm of the seasons.

Dr Tara Shine said: ‘Ireland’s nature is wild, unpredictable and constantly surprising. You just never know what is around the next corner and finding hidden wildlife is always a thrill.’

On Sunday May 6, Ireland hosts Nature LIVE, as it broadcasts live to Europe from the banks of Dublin’s River Liffey. It will be anchored by RTÉ presenter Derek Mooney, with wildlife film-maker Colin Stafford-Johnson presenting from the Blasket Islands.

This one-hour television programme hosted by RTÉ in partnership with other broadcasters will feature some of Europe's extraordinary wildlife – beamed in live by satellite from the continent's most remote locations – from polar bears in the Norwegian Arctic to flamingos in southern Spain, and from basking sharks off the west of Ireland, to wolves in Slovenia. This unique event is designed to create a showcase for Europe’s nature.

Viewers can take part by sharing their own pictures and videos of nature and wildlife using #naturelive from wherever they live in Europe. The day kicks off with the Dawn Chorus, which will air on RTÉ Radio 1 from 12am through to 7am. Millions of birds will join in nature’s symphony broadcast live from over 20 locations across Europe. 

Derek Mooney said: ‘Europe’s nature is spectacular.  It’s only right that we celebrate it and I’m delighted that RTÉ is hosting this unique event which will be viewed by millions of people throughout the world on TV and online.’

Colin Stafford-Johnson added: ‘This is a unique and wonderful opportunity to showcase the very best that Ireland has to offer in terms of its wild places and wild creatures.’

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Let's face facts: gin is absolutely the MOST popular drink at the moment. 

From pink gin to bizarre flavoured gins, people are really jumping on the band wagon – and we're glad. 

The latest gin offering comes from the wonderful humans of Marks & Spencer, who have launched colour-changing gin. 

Yes, really. 

M&S have joined forces with Scottish distillery The Old Curiosity to create two divine flavoured gins, that change colour.

Like something out of Harry Potter. 

The two flavours are: British Rose, which transforms from a pale gold to a bright fuschia with a splash of tonic, and British Lavender – this also changes from purple to pink.

AH-MAZING. 

How does this witchcraft work?

“The gins keep the natural properties of the plants they're made from, consequently, when tonic is added, not only does the mixer open up the 'nose' of these fabulous gins, it changes the pH of the spirit together with its original colour,” according to the lads at M&S.

Also, it is important to note that these gins are not packed with weirdo chemicals.

 “The gins are 100 per cent naturally distilled and infused using florals and other botanicals and are free of chemicals, sugars, fruit extracts or flavour compounds.”

These gins are being launched next week, and will cost around 25 quid per bottle. 

The perfect summer beverage. 

Feature image: theginkin.com 

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While the fifth series of Peaky Blinders sadly isn't airing until 2019, at least we have Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard's amazing Tommy Shelby costumes to tide us over in the meantime.

The couple donned their best waistcoats and flat caps for their friend Audra's Peaky Blinders-themed birthday party.

Not only that, but the birthday bash actually took place at a racetrack! 

Looking through these pics, we honestly can't get over how dapper the Frozen star and her husband look.

One person aptly summed up our feelings towards the adorable parents: "You two are so damn cute I can hardly even stand it!"

Yep, the couple of the year award definitely goes to Dax and Kristen.

The pair were also joined by Ryan Hansen, who starred alongside Kristen as Dick Casablancas in Veronica Mars.

We may not want to hang around some of the violent gangsters from Peaky Blinders, but we would LOVE to sport these 1920s get-ups.

"Peaky Party in full effect at the race track," Kristen wrote on Instagram.

Her followers adored the couple's fancy dress, and we feel like Kristen's post has probably inspired plenty of other Peaky Blinders-themed shindigs by now!

And we have to say, we don't think Kristen's ever looked classier (or more intimidating) than in the photo below:

Now, does anyone know where we can pick up a grey waistcoat…?

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We all know the amazing feeling that live music gives us, you can almost feel it in your soul (if the gig is good).

Well, apparently this isn't all in our head, because attending concerts can actually prolong your life. 

According to a new study by O2, alongside Goldsmith University's Associate Lecturer Patrick Fagan, regularly attending live concerts can help expand your lifespan.

We're down. 

The study says that 20 minutes at a live performance "can lead to a 21 percent increase in that feeling of well-being." 

The research continued, claiming that attending concerts could be "directly linked to high levels of well-being with a lifespan increase of nine years."

So yes, basically attending gigs could really make you live longer.

How's that for an excuse to buy that ticket you've been putting off?

"Our research showcases the profound impact gigs have on feelings of health, happiness and well-being – with fortnightly or regular attendance being the key," Goldsmith University's Associate Lecturer Patrick Fagan said.

How did they get these results, I hear you ask? 

Well, basically the test subjects underwent "psychometric testing and heart rate tests" as they engaged in various activities that were positive for their health – like walking and exercising etc.  

The results simply revealed that people who attended concerts had an increase of 25 percent in feelings of "self worth and closeness to others" and a 75 percent increase in "mental stimulation".

Can't argue with science now, can you? 

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Over half of male college athletes, and 38 per cent of non-athletes have admitted to having coerced a partner into performing a sexual act. 

A study of 379 male students from an unnamed university in the US, asked a number of questions around the topics of sexually coercive behaviour and consent, in an attempt to learn more about the attitudes that exist around rape culture. 

Aside from the sheer number of men who said they had engaged in coercive behaviour, one of the more alarming findings was the mentality behind the admissions, and the apparent belief in rape myths. 

Offending participants shared the opinion that "if a woman doesn't fight back, it isn't rape", a worrying take on gender roles, such as "women should worry less about their rights and more about becoming good wives and mothers." 

Speaking to the Washington Post, Kristy McCray, an assistant professor of health and sport sciences at Otterbein Universtiy in Ohio, said: "Sports are a hypermasculine endeavor, and there's a lot that connects hypermasculinity to violence." 

While the findings are no doubt disturbing at best, many readers of the report have taken to social media to say the news doesn't come as a huge shock. 

The study proves particularly relevant at a time when the #MeToo and #IBeleiveHer movements aim to open the conversation around rape culture and provide support for the victims of sexual assault. 

 

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One of the most anticipated influencer-designed products has finally been announced.

Members of the beauty community, along with Suzanne Jackson's hundreds of thousands of followers, have been waiting with baited breath for the reveal of her tan brand. 

Suzanne has been teasing fans with hints about the product for what seems like forever, but now, two years in the making, the date for it's release is finally here.

Solid Gold will be launched on April 12, with it going on pre-sale the same day.

Taking to Instagram. the business mogul wrote: 

'You're GOLD baby, solid GOLD. After nearly two years of hard work, we're ALMOST ready to share with you our GOLDEN secret!'

'Who's ready for #SOSUbySJ tan?'

We're pretty sure the entire country is ready after waiting so long for a peek at the highly anticipated product. 

Pre-sale is at 8pm, so make sure you set those alarms. 

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While shopping on the high street may be the port of call for most, thrifting has gained momentum in recent years.

Shopping in charity shops has always been a key component of many shopper's wardrobe construction, be that because of the unique finds or the low prices. 

A new study has found that millennial women more than ever are looking to second-hand stores and services for clothing

 

A post shared by Iris Otley (@iris_otley) on

One in three women shopped for second-hand clothing last year, according to the ThreadUp Resale Report. 

The clothes were sourced from various areas, be they IRL charity shops or resale apps like Depop or ThreadUp. 

Up to 66pc of consumers use thrift to buy better brands they would otherwise never pay full price for, according to the report. 

Second hand shops are an excellent resource for people seeking a vintage-inspired look, and for those whop want to add to their day-to-day wardrobes on a budget. 

'I often get asked if resale as a category has hit the mainstream,' said ThreadUp CEO James Reinhart. 

'People want to know if it's had its breakout moment yet. Has it “arrived”?'

'The truth is more people are shopping secondhand than ever before.'

Resale shops and apps have grown by a whopping 49pc in the past year, and show no signs of waning in popularity. 

Get us to the second-hand store, ASAP. 

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If, like us, you're partial to a few drinks on the weekend, you'll know that one spirit in particular has captured the heart of the nation.

In recent years, the humble Gin and Tonic has undergone somewhat of a transformation, proving itself the beverage of choice for millennials across the country.

We're right at the centre of a gin Renaissance – and the latest event on Dublin's social calendar is here to prove it. 

The city's biggest ginthusiasts are invited to sample products from some the best gin producers in Ireland and across the globe, in Dublin Castle this weekend. 

Guest will can the chance to sip on gins of every kind while nibbling on specially selected food pairings, and generally feeling fancy AF. 

You'll also have the opportunity to attend a masterclass and take part in a foraging lesson with Ireland's leading ambassadors. 

Hosted at Printworks at Dublin Castle, Gin Experience Dublin, will donate €10 from every ticket sale to DEBRA Ireland, a charity devoted to helping those people with rare genetic skin conditions. 

Tickets are priced at €40.00, plus booking fee, and must be purchased in advance. 

For more details and to purchase a ticket, click here

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With Spring in the air there's a sense of new beginnings. The days are longer, the weather is better (most of the time) and the Easter eggs are fully consumed. 

So why not pick up a new skill or hobby? From reading to rowing and cooking to coin collections there's so much out there to choose from! Luckily for you, we've come to the rescue and complied the best hobbies to suit your star sign.

What are you waiting for? Get that spring in your step! 

Aquarius (January 20- February 19)

The tech-savvy Aquarius loves all things problem solving. Get yourself a thousand piece jigsaw and stock up on the sudoku or find a riddle that wll keep you occupied for hours! 

Pisces (February 19- March 20)

Staying true to their symbol of the fish, Pisces adore spending time in the water. Head down to the local pool and get swimming-fit for the summer. Bored of doing lengths? Try a fun water sport like canoeing, water polo or water aerobics instead. 

Aries (March 20- April 19)

Sitting down peacefully is an Aries' worst nightmare, so now is your chance to get out and about! Push yourself out of your comfort zone and defy the height with rock-climbing or wall-climbing! 

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Artistic and sensitive, Spring is the perfect time to take advantage of a Taurus' creative energy. Embrace working with your hands and making a mess with pottery or painting. Who knows, you might be the next Picasso?! 

Gemini (May 21-June 19)

Inquisitive Gemini's love exploring different cultures and modes of thinking. Even if  that round the world plane ticket is out of your reach just yet, why not prep yourself by learning a new language? Take a beginners night course or even download Duolingo. Oui, Oui! 

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

A home bird by nature, Cancers love spending time beautifying their surroundings.  Get out in the garden and turn it into that Eden you've always wanted. Don't have a garden? Fill your window sills and balconies with potted plants and cute cactus gardens! 

Leo (July 23- August 22)

Leos are full of energy and love being centre stage. Confident and outgoing, they were born to be on the stage. So unleash your inner diva this Spring and try Zumba, hip hop, ballet, or even burlesque if you're brave enough! 

Virgo (August 23- September 22)

Virgos need constant stimulation and are always busy. Keep those hands occupied with knitting and croqueting. A new skill set you can do anywhere is right up a Virgos ally! 

Libra (September 23- October 22)

Lovers of the finer things in life and socialising, a book club is the perfect outlet for a Libra. With the gossip and wine flowing, it also gives you a perfect excuse to finally read that bestseller that's been sitting by your bed for months! 

Scorpio (October 23- November 21)

Scorpios are all about self-improvement. While they can appear extroverted on the outside, they prefer pursuits that offer them some alone time to unwind. Try Yoga or meditation as your Spring start! 

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21)

A Sagittarian is all about the wide open outdoors. They love spend time in nature and nothing revives them more than a trip to the wilderness. Get your hiking boots on Sagittarius and climb those mountains! 

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

The practical Capricorn is always looking to make life run a bit smoother. So take a daily chore like cooking and turn it into something fun. Take a cookery class or channel your inner Gordon Ramsey (without the swearing) with set of new cookery books and a host of exciting new recipes! 

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The sun is shining for what feels like the first time in forever. There’s a spring in our step and we’re starting to daydream about the summertime. We know Irish summers tend to be a tad dreary, which will come as no surprise, as the country experiences between 150 and 225 rainy days every single year.

Luckily, HB is here to brighten the coming months as they have re-launched one of their nicest ice-creams. They announced that the Super Split will be back, just in time for the summer.

However, there will be something very different about the popular ice-cream. They have decided to change the name from Super Split to SPLIT.

But fear not, they won’t be changing the recipe!

HB shared, “We’ve received several heartfelt emails, handwritten letters and social media messages asking us to bring back this legend, and we listened!”

They added, "We’ve decided to give the name a makeover, from Super Split to SPLIT, but fans old and new can rest assured that the great taste they’ve come to know and love, is still the exact same."

HB SPLIT is available in packs of nine in shops nationwide.

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It's out with the old, and in with the new!

For many, spring is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts – making it the perfect the excuse to give your wardrobe a well-deserved makeover. 

To help, we've trawled the high street in search of some of the best pieces so you can nail this season's most stylish trends. 

Pretty in Pastel 

Check yo'self 

Puff it out 

Sheer beauty

Statement colour 

 

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