The Little Guru

Author: Nicole – The Little Guru

Converse x John Elliott
With a tactile rework of the archival Skidgrip, Converse x John Elliott creates a beautifully imperfect blend of vintage-inspired colour and texture.

The acclaimed menswear designer gives timeless casual style a vintage-inspired look. Featured in two distinct tones, this tactile rework of the archival Skidgrip creates a beautifully imperfect combination of texture and colour.

The details (John Elliott Skidgrip rework)

John Elliott reimagines archival Converse style with a tactile Skidgrip rework. Known for elevating street staples through unique textile approaches, the menswear designer replicates the striking imperfection of aged patina with a meticulously flocked canvas. Textured green and brown tones flow across the upper in organic patterns, adding unexpected vibrance to the clean and timeless silhouette. A vintage-inspired look and feel—on an archival classic that never gets old.
- Limited-edition low-top sneaker from menswear designer John Elliott
- Flocked canvas upper crafted with two-stage printing process—echoing the texture and colour of aged patina
- Nickel lace eyelets
- Signature smooth midsole
- Herringbone outsole
- Cobranded sockliner
- Second pop colour lace included
Converse debuted the silhouette — then referred to as the CVO – as a tennis and basketball sneaker way back in 1910. Decades later, it was renamed the Skidgrip in the 1960s. After Converse enhanced the rubber traction of the shoe. Fast forward to 2020, Converse reintroduced the sneaker with a 30-degree sloped midsole and double layer soft collar to improve stance, comfort, and overall style.

John Elliott- The Designer

What We’re Saying: John Elliott’s relationship with Nike has seemingly spawned a partnership with Converse. For his impending collaboration, the designer has reimagined one of the brand’s oldest silhouettes, the Skidgrip, largely drawing from his childhood in California.

“I discovered the Skidgrip like any kid in California through skating early in my childhood,” Elliott said. “It’s a silhouette that’s iconic. As a skate shoe, it was instantly recognizable. The Skidgrip is an important shoe in culture for skate and in representing California.”

The Converse x John Elliott Skidgrip is available online at www.converse.co.za, Shelflife and DTC Sandton from Thursday, 19 August 2021. Price Range: R1 799.00. Read more here.
August 20, 2021
The Movement Empire

I have always been that person to join some fitness class. Be it Pilates, Yoga or Zumba, I always made a point to keep my body moving. Why you ask, well because I need to keep my body moving. For me it’s more than just exercise. It’s about pushing my body to work better, for my heart and lungs to get stronger. For keeping my condition under control and my mind happy.

It’s been almost 2 years that I haven’t even thought of exercise, because well… Vid (covid), until now…

I decided I needed a partner to help me move and guide me along my journey to a stronger body and mind. The Movement Empire fell into my lap and it’s been a pretty awesome journey so far. It’s allowed me the opportunity to work out at home, without having to commit to sessions with a personal trainer in the gym. I don’t like gyms, if I’m honest, unless they’re women’s-only gyms without sweaty men with a wandering eye. I also needed a programme that would allow me to exercise when/where I could, at any time of day/night. I’m sure we are all master procrastinator’s when it comes to working-out and that’s why joining The Movement Empire, was all the motivation I needed to get moving again.

How it works

It’s simple, you enter some basic information to get you signed up on the site The Movement Empire .

Beginner

6 Week Foundation Programme to get your fitness back on track
Affordable full body-weight training experience three times a week
Fully pre-recorded training experience with your own Trainer & Training Partner to help you with your form, posture and technique
Access to bespoke lifestyle content to help you live your best life

Intermediate

Affordable full body-weight training experience three times a week
Fully pre-recorded training experience with your own Trainer & Training Partner to help you with your form, posture and technique
Access to bespoke lifestyle content to help you live your best life

Advanced

Affordable full body-weight training experience four times a week
Fully pre-recorded training experience with your own Trainer & Training Partner to help you with your form, posture and technique
Access to bespoke lifestyle content to help you live your best life

Meet the Team

Highly qualified trainers that are extremely motivating throughout your training. Along with the workouts, there are training partners that do the workout with you and demonstrate how to perform the workouts and offer alternate forms if you can’t manage the ones that they show you.

How much does it cost?

I love that it is a month-to-month payment plan with absolutely no strings attached. You can cancel at any time with no hidden fees involved!

Join the Movement

So what are you waiting for? Sign up here and get that body moving. You wont regret it!

August 7, 2021
Fayma Sewing Patterns Project

Ever been inspired to create your own clothing? I have.

I seems like a lifetime ago when I discovered Geneva Vanderzeil. She is the DIY Queen and back then, made incredible garments out of anything she could possibly get her hands on. The pieces she created were gorgeous and I always said that one day, I will make my own garment. One day.

My one day came a few weeks back when I was introduced to Fayma. My one day to make my own DIY clothing piece is here!

Who is Fayma?

Fayma is a powerful, easy-to-use, technology that enables anyone to express themselves through handmade tailoring. You no longer need pattern-making skills.

Their technology creates a pattern individually for your size, so you no longer need to puzzle over how to adjust a standard sewing pattern to fit your size, you immediately get an ideal sewing pattern for you. No more sizes, only you. Just choose your favourite model, order your individual sewing pattern, and create your new outfit that fits you perfectly!

Girl Power!

Everybody knows the hardships of buying clothing online. From tiresome browsing, to trying to guess how this particular size will look in this particular manufacturer’s execution. Market researchers claim that up to half of the clothing items purchased online are returned due to them being an imperfect fit.

This is not surprising as only 1 in 250 people possess standard, average body measurements.

What to do for those who do not fit women’s standards of sizes from 34 to 44? The sewing pattern industry was created for this purpose. To give the opportunity to create beautiful individual clothes to everyone, taking into account the characteristics of each figure.

When we go to popular pattern stores, we see all the same sizes. But it doesn’t have to stay this way. We believe that trying to standardize women is not acceptable, and our development is a manifesto of the uniqueness of being female. That’s what our motto is about: NO MORE SIZES. ONLY ME.

That’s the philosophy of Fayma, to offer a solution that will allow you to create beautiful clothes according to your pixel-perfect pattern, which takes into account all the features of the figure.

The Package

A personalized sewing pattern that takes into account all the nuances of your figure
A decent selection of stylish clothes
New designs arriving every season
Easy-to-use technology and convenient store on the web or app
Support team
Simple secured payment
Indescribable feeling of your own uniqueness

My Fayma Sewing Patterns Project

Feeling incredibly excited to finally get started on my garment. I decided to start with a simple Maxi Skirt and will hopefully come out with a gorgeous piece that I made on my own! Follow along my Fayma project on Insta! I will share my experience on a blog post too!

Wish me Luck! xx

July 29, 2021
Winter Design Insights with Kim Williams

Today we are featuring winter design insights with Kim Williams. Having the right fireplace in your home can bring an elemental warmth that not only heats your home but comforts the soul. Choosing which fireplace will work best for your needs will depend on aesthetics, the ambience and the size size of the space.

With the help of Kim Williams, she shares her top insights on selecting the perfect heating solution.

Aesthetics and Ambiance

Fire brings such energy into a space because it represents passion. With so many options from gas-oil hybrids, to ergonomic pellet fireplaces, there is sure to be one that fits your ideal aesthetic. Considering the style and ambience you want to create will determine which option will work best for you.

Go high quality

The final fireplace you choose should fit with your lifestyle requirements . The longevity of your design choice is also paramount on both essential materials such as fire bricks and in terms of style. I always recommend clients go for what they truly love, not just what is on-trend because fireplaces are expensive to repair or replace.

Size up your space

There are many experts whose main focus is understanding the science behind space and airflow, and how sunlight and energy interact in a space.

Follow the sun

The sun is often overlooked when home builders collaborate with architects and yet light is the most fundamental factor. Having a sunny space will make an enormous difference. If you are buying a home that doesn’t get a lot of sun, before installing heating systems, try to open it up with windows or skylights. The sun will always be the most efficient way to heat a home because after all, it is free.

Keep it connected

If a home is cold we tend to retreat to the warm embrace of our duvets rather than gathering in a communal area. A fireplace creates a warm social hub and the perfect ambience to bond as a family. When building your fireplace, consider how space will be used and use furniture that makes it easy to gather safely around the fire and facilitates being together.

Remember all the elements in the room

Making a space warm is also psychological. By considering elements such as the floors, wall coverings, lighting, colour and textures you can make even the darkest room feel cosy. To find balance among all these elements I often look to nature and incorporate earth, air, water and fire. Vibrant plants in open spaces infuse a home with life and cool ocean blues make the perfect inky backdrop for warm colours and earthy tones. Lush rugs and dim candles as well as rich wallpaper also help to add psychological warmth and insulation.

Take the fun Outside

Using your outdoor space with the kind of weather we have in South Africa is also very much an option. With us spending much more time outdoors we are seeing a huge resurgence of the fire pit. I personally love them and adore how versatile they can be – from a simple cost effective metal pit to grand sunken landscaped arenas there really is something for every budget. If a fire is not your preference, or perhaps you have a smaller courtyard garden, outdoor heaters are a lovely alternative.

Coldness can make us retreat into our spaces to cocoon away from the harshness of the world. Building a fireplace is so much more than a heating solution, it is a way to draw us together to find comfort in the bonds we share with family and help us revive our souls after the haste and confusion of a busy day.

For more tips from Kim Williams, sign-up for her blog at www.kimwilliams.co.za or follow her on Facebook and Instagram

July 6, 2021
Olgani – Making the Mundane Magnificent

Olgani – making the mundane magnificent! If you haven’t already seen on my social media pages, I am utterly obsessed with Olgani Naturals. Olgani Naturals is a South African brand that develops natural and innovative oral care products.

Keeping it Natural

The brand uses only natural and edible ingredients. Offering direct benefits to oral care and the entire body. All Olgani products are free from those nasty preservatives such as glycerin and sorbitol which are abrasive agents.

Hand-harvested sea salt is the foundation of all Olgani products. Sea salt alkalizes the oral cavity which helps to neutralize acids. This helps tooth enamel and facilitating better mineral absorption.

Toothpastes and Toothpowders

The Olgani Mighty Cocoa Toothpaste combines the brands signature NutrieB base. Raw cocoa is rich in minerals and vitamins. Licorice has been added for cavity prevention and gum protection and there’s also Turmeric that offers anti-inflammatory & tooth whitening properties. A blend of essential oils with cocoa aroma and flavor will leave your teeth smooth and mouth fresh.

My personal favorite. Olgani toothpowders are definitely different from the norm. Charcoal and cocoa offer an enticing chocolate aroma for a unique, all-natural blend of botanicals and natural minerals. While the Sage and Wintergreen toothpowder helps to prevent dental plaque & cavities. Check out the Travel Packs that have been newly introduced!

Olgani 100% Compostable Bioplastic Toothbrush

Obsessed with Olgani’s new Poly toothbrush is an understatement. This toothbrush is a first of its kind in South Africa. Did you know that the toothbrush handle is made from bioplastic produced from Polylactic Acid (known as PLA) and the bristles are made from biodegradable nylon? Pretty cool right!

The Olgani Copper Tongue Curve Cleaner

Made with 100% copper. Practice of tongue cleaning is said to improve one’s digestion. Also, it removes toxins and bacteria from the oral cavity. Copper also has microbial properties and studies have shown it can kill micro-organisms like mold, fungi, and bacteria. When copper comes into contact with saliva, it helps maintain the body’s pH balance too.

Olgani mini-doughnut toothbrush stand

The adorable new mini doughnut stand! Four colours are available (canary yellow, mint green, snow white & pitch black). Perfectly designed to hold the Olgani compostable bioplastic toothbrush or the copper tongue cleaner. Each is designed to prevent residue build-up at the base and is easy to clean. The mini-doughnut also has a textured base to prevent slipping.

A brand that I would highly recommend and will use again and again. Eco-friendly and good for overall health- there is nothing better than that! They truly are making the mundane magnificent!

Shop Olgani Naturals here.

June 22, 2021
Skin Care Advice I Would Give to My Younger Self

If only I was given skincare advice at an early age. I remember when I was 13, I used my very first, glittery eyeshadow. My mom wasn’t really big on makeup and had very select items in her dresser. She was though, very good with her skincare and I remember that she would display her Oil of Olay on the dressing table. I remember sneaking some of the “golden skincare” every now and again just to feel the silkiness on my skin. If only I discovered it sooner, I think my skin would be even better today.

There are a few things I wish I did more of. Take the advice! I wish I could go back in time and do things a little differently.

1. Do not bake in the sun and wear the SPF.

I think this is the most important of all. Back then, I was big into sports at school. I did running, netball, hockey, I loved it! What I also loved, looking back on photos was how tanned I was and then the thought occurred, I never ever wore SPF. Now, I wear AT LEAST SPF 30 rain or shine. Yes, rays peak through the clouds. I learned when I got laser removal. I am not saying become a vampire but, you’ve got to protect your skin from the harsh rays at least during the peak hours of 12-3.

2. Pay attention to your neck and décolletage.

Yes, I moisturized my face. I even put on eye cream from my early 20’s but did I pay attention to the connected areas…nope. Nothing gives your age away more than chest wrinkles. While you are at it, slap on that sunscreen there too.

3. Start Retinoids now.
Don’t wait until you start to see wrinkles, start BEFORE you do. Early prevention is key. Read about a great range here and here.

4. Stop overwashing your face.

A little oil will not make you have a breakout for Pete’s sake. Stop scrubbing your face the way you do burnt cheese off your late-night toasted cheese plate.

5. Do not wax excess hair on your face.

Being the Mediterranean, I had/have a mustache. I waxed it so much it affected my skin. Starting waxing at a young age really takes a toll on the skin later in life. I started laser hair removal in my early twenties and it’s the best money spent. It is not as expensive as you think. It pays itself off if you compare it to all of the waxing appointments over the years.

6. Eat healthy.
You are what you eat and consuming foods with chemicals and too much sugar WILL affect your skin. Look I’m no saint- I drink coke every day but everything in moderation.

7. Limit drinking alcohol.
We all know this is dehydrating to the skin. Save it for when you are over 50 with college kids and bills…but follow it with tons of water at least.

8. Don’t stress it.
Stress can really affect your skin. Everything always works out in the end.

June 10, 2021
Instant Fresh Hair with Batiste Dry Shampoo

I don’t believe that there is a hair-conscious individual who is unfamiliar with the concept of dry shampoo. It’s a staple in any woman’s beauty cabinet for instant fresh hair. And if it’s not, I’m about to make your life ten times easier. A new beginning to instant fresh hair with Batiste Dry Shampoo.

What is Dry Shampoo?

Dry shampoo is essentially an oil-absorbing powder. This means you can use anything from baby powder to a high-end powdered dry shampoo. These sprays soak up the grease in your hair while adding volume.

Who’s Batiste?

For over thirty years Batiste has been the UK’s number one dry shampoo brand. Their tried and tested formula offers consumers an easy solution to grease-free hair. By targeting excess oils, Batiste’s dry shampoos eliminate that stringy look from the roots. Meaning that hair looks fresh without any water.

The “no water needed” shampooing technique has been perfected by Batiste. The unique brand has different options to tailor for your own individual crown.

Benefits of Dry Shampoo

The biggest benefit of dry shampoo is not necessarily health-related at all. Dry shampooing is flat-out convenient! It makes life easier when you don’t need to wash your hair regularly. I know it sounds gross, but we’ve all been there. You get home at midnight and its wash-day but you’re just too tired. You swear you’ll wake up early and shower in the morning but that doesn’t happen either. Enter stage right: your favorite Batiste Dry Shampoo to the rescue.

It should come as no surprise that washing your hair daily is a no-no for your hair health. It strips away your natural oils that keep your hair moisturized. If you’re reading this and nervously gulping, then don’t worry. This is once again where your Powder in Shining Packaging steps in, just skip a wash and use a dry shampoo instead! Skipping a wash is also a great way to prolong the life of colored hair since dyes fade with water contact.

Why We Love Batiste

As a result of less hair washing, dry shampoo can also lead to a reduction in hair damage. If you’re not washing your hair every day you’re using fewer chemicals and products on your hair. Using a dry shampoo can mean you end up styling your hair less regularly – it’s more of an up keep than an up-do at this point. If anything, it can be doubled as a styling product. So say hello to Instant fresh hair with Batiste dry shampoo!

Try It!

With 4 beautiful dry shampoos to choose from, you can conveniently salvage your hair every once in a while, with Batiste Dry Shampoo. Available at Dischem Pharmacies and Clicks

June 4, 2021
Skin Functional Oil Based Vitamin C

Skin Functional, an affordable South African skincare brand that has come into my life, stolen my heart, and enriched my skin. I introduced you to them almost a year ago and I was so impressed by the performance and results of their serums, that I swapped my personal skin care products and use only the Skin Functional, and let me say, my skin has never looked better. Skin Functional has done it again! A product that I have been wishing for them to introduce to the brand and the time has finally come… Introducing Skin Functional Oil-based Vitamin C.

Why the Vitamin C Hype?

Vitamin C serums are legendary for a reason: They really work. Uneven skin tone, rough texture, fine lines, acne scars, general dullness — you can name just about any common complexion concern and there’s a good chance that vitamin C is a recommended treatment.

What is Vitamin C?

As far as your skin is concerned, vitamin C is “a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals,” explains dermatologist Patricia Wexler. “Because of its antioxidant properties, vitamin C aids in your skin’s natural regeneration process, which helps your body repair damaged skin cells.”
So, in the same way that consuming antioxidant-rich foods aids your body in fighting off free radicals, topical antioxidants do the same for your skin. Keeping skin cells healthy.

Why SF’s Vitamin C Formula is special

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate: A Stable & Effective Form of Vitamin C

It’s a mouthful, I know, but it’s also the absolute best type of vitamin C. Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (TA) is stable and lipid-soluble. TA is also less irritating than ascorbic acid, so it’s especially ideal for sensitive skin types. (YAY for us sensitive babies). Because it’s lipid-soluble, TA works well with skin and is able to visibly brighten and reduce the visible signs of aging. TA won’t degrade as quickly as other types of vitamin C. It can last up to 18 months in the bottle, in fact. This stability is crucial if you want to make sure your skincare product can really be effective in the long run.

Our Views

SF can do no wrong in my eyes. The Vitamin C Serum has exceeded my expectations. The formula is incredible and fast-absorbing on my skin. The science behind it proves that SF delivers astonishing products for noticeable results!
Bravo Skin Functional Team- this one is a winner!

Have you heard about the Daily Moisturiser by SF? It’s too one of my favourites from the brand, you can read more about it here.

Shop Skin Functional Range and the new Vitamin C Serum on their site Skin Functional

June 2, 2021
Let’s Talk Tea …

Let’s talk tea, shall we …

Did you know that different types of personalities are drawn to different types of tea? Your preference for loose-leaf tea over tea bags, and even how you brew your tea, says a lot about who you are.

Tea Talk with Jessica Bonin

SA-born tea sommelier, Jessica Bonin, who gained experience from studying directly under tea masters in China, Japan and South Korea, talks tea.

“While teas have always been selected for their unique characteristics and flavour profiles, our inclinations towards different teas are representative of our personal characteristics.

“For every individual, tea has a different meaning. It is an expression of our emotions and who we are. We all associate with its effects. Even on a subconscious level. Tea drinking for some, is soothing and healing, while for others, it’s invigorating.

“With so many beneficial compounds, tea creates various states in the body and mind. We then form associations based on those outcomes. We naturally gravitate toward teas that fulfil the state of being we seek.”

To cater for every taste, mood and personality, the Rooibos tea industry has added new twists to the pantry staple. Today there are numerous blends of specialty Rooibos infusions on the market, with a clear trend towards more natural ingredients.

Bonin remarks that each Rooibos tea blend has a distinct keynote, flavor, aroma, texture, and feel. This appeals to one’s deeper character.

“If you’re in a contemplative mood, Rooibos & Chamomile will provide a calming effect, while Rooibos & Lemon is likely to be the blend of choice for those who demand focus. The spontaneous will likely gravitate toward a berry-blend, whereas warm and caring individuals will find harmony in a cup of chai tea.”

After meticulously studying the various infusions, Bonin has developed a tea personality quiz for tea lovers.

Take the quiz here

If you are looking to buy some exotic and tasty tea, buy some here.

May 20, 2021
Have You Heard About Burt’s Bees?

Have you heard about Burt’s Bees? An incredible story about how 2 people left their city-loving lives and moved to a remote pristine wilderness raising bees.

Burt Shavitz and Roxanne Quimby created Burt’s Bees in the early 1980s. In their former lives, Burt worked as a photojournalist in Manhattan, and Roxanne was an artist living in San Francisco. Each left behind the harried pace of city life to seek freedom in the remote, pristine wilderness of Maine.

They valued the simple life and knew the importance and personal worth of staying connected to nature. Their lifestyle was low-impact, and socially and environmentally conscious. As back-to-basics, D-I-Y types, they were ahead of their time—their approach is as compelling now as ever.

Roxanne used to say that since we take from nature, we must respect and preserve it. Today, we follow in her and Burt’s footsteps by using the best ingredients from nature and respecting nature so we can all live well.

I adore a brand that doesn’t test on animals because it’s a brand that is committed to responsible sourcing of ingredients. It has recyclable packaging and respects nature (they are CarbonNeutral certified). Burt’s Bees does it all.

I’m excited to share with you some amazing products that are 100% and made with love.

Burts Bees Products

Burt’s Bees Mango Lip Balm

The brand’s most iconic product, Mango Butter, a naturally nourishing balm that smoothes dry lips.

Tinted Lip Balm R99

This balm coats the lips in a sheer veil of colour combined with 8 hours of intense moisture. The Botanical Waxes in these softly tinted balms are a real treat for parched, dry lips.

Lip Shimmer R99

Shea Butter and antioxidant-rich Fruit Oils moisturize, nourish, and soften lips naturally. A burst of minty freshness is definitely a favourite for me.

Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream R125

As someone who rarely used cuticle oil, this balm is everything! I love this nourishing, healing balm that also has a fresh lemon scent. The formula works to nourish dry, brittle nails as it moisturizes and softens cuticles. Definitely a favourite of the range!

Burt’s Bees is available for purchase online at Takealot & Dischem

Read more here

May 18, 2021