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Friday, October 2, 2020

For the Chance to Win a $500 Uber Eats Voucher, Tell Us How You Feel About Love & Dating During COVID-19

Undeniably our lives have changed in so many ways in the wake of COVID-19, but one aspect that took the biggest hit was our relationships and the way we date. Back in March, before we all knew what we were in for, it was widely assumed that if you were single and on dating apps, your DMs would be blowing up and people would actually put in the time and effort to get to know you while we were all in isolation.

Virtual dating seemed to have taken off! But as it turns out, when we checked in with you back in April, only half of the readers we surveyed who were using dating apps pre-pandemic actually continued to use them during isolation.

Some of you were dabbling in Zoom or socially distanced dates and others were locking things down with the person they'd been dating non-exclusively. But the majority of you didn't really see the point in getting to know people during such a turbulent and uncertain time, especially if you couldn't meet up IRL.

Now, as we're emerge from isolation across most of Australia (and our lives return to some sense of normalcy), we thought we'd check in again to see how things might have changed, so we can create the kind of content you need to navigate the new world of dating.

If you've got a spare five minutes, take this survey and tell us how you feel about love and dating during COVID-19 for the chance to win a $500 Uber Eats voucher.



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For the Chance to Win a $500 Uber Eats Voucher, Tell Us How You Feel About Love & Dating During COVID-19

Undeniably our lives have changed in so many ways in the wake of COVID-19, but one aspect that took the biggest hit was our relationships and the way we date. Back in March, before we all knew what we were in for, it was widely assumed that if you were single and on dating apps, your DMs would be blowing up and people would actually put in the time and effort to get to know you while we were all in isolation.

Virtual dating seemed to have taken off! But as it turns out, when we checked in with you back in April, only half of the readers we surveyed who were using dating apps pre-pandemic actually continued to use them during isolation.

Some of you were dabbling in Zoom or socially distanced dates and others were locking things down with the person they'd been dating non-exclusively. But the majority of you didn't really see the point in getting to know people during such a turbulent and uncertain time, especially if you couldn't meet up IRL.

Now, as we're emerge from isolation across most of Australia (and our lives return to some sense of normalcy), we thought we'd check in again to see how things might have changed, so we can create the kind of content you need to navigate the new world of dating.

If you've got a spare five minutes, take this survey and tell us how you feel about love and dating during COVID-19 for the chance to win a $500 Uber Eats voucher.



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Seven Months Into the Pandemic and I’m…Carving Biceps for the First Time

We're seven or so months into this little thing called COVID-19, and we're wondering:
How is your life and running during the pandemic?

We're collecting essays from the Another Mother Runner community about life and running during the pandemic during the month of October, and we'd love to hear from you.

Here are the guidelines:

—These are not essays about how you're doing the same thing every day. Nor are they politically oriented, a call to wear—or not wear—masks, or anything about conspiracy theories.

—Instead, Seven Months: My Life and Running During the Pandemic is an entry into a short, detail-rich story that has some kind of universal theme or resonance.

—The story doesn't have to be about running, nor does it have to have a happy ending—it can be funny, empathetic, enlightening, scary, whatever.

—500 word limit. (No exceptions!)

—We will run selected essays on this website, in our twice-weekly Another Mother Runner Newsletter, and on our Facebook page.

—All entries up for consideration must be received by October 11, 2020; send essay (again: 500 words max) and a picture of yourself (either a head shot or a vertical one of you running) to bamr@anothermotherrunner.com with subject line: Seven Months.

 

Excavating is more like it. They were buried, as was I, but we are digging out now.

Maybe you know the feeling.  

While friends around me spent the spring and summer energetically redecorating their surroundings, cleaning out long-forgotten closets, or learning to keep sourdough starter alive, I hunkered down to watch Netflix and eat ice cream like it was my job.  

The winds of change blew gently by in late June when a high school friend posted about her local outdoor boot camp classes. I was intrigued and asked for more info. When I saw the 5:30AM start time, I pondered the value of my late nights with pals Ben + Jerry, and was like NOPE. I wanted to do the workout but couldn't find a way off the couch.

A month later I saw her post again for the August classes to start, and I noticed my BFF comment on it and then saw that she messaged me. Do it together?

My stomach sank while I considered how dark it was at 5:30 and how hard it would be. So very hard. I faltered but then quickly typed out “YES PLEASE!” before I could change my mind. She had reached a hand down to me where I was becoming one with my old sofa and yanked me to my feet.

We ran off to meet sunrise together that week and I have never looked back. 

For 60 minutes, 3-4 times a week, I now attend a hard core workout class that has boosted my spirits, connected me with other humans face to face which I needed more than I realized, rebuilt my confidence in my own body and strength, improved my overall fitness for running, and helped me shake off the pandemic cloud which had been suffocating me.

Also, feeling stronger and healthier helped me break it off with Ben + Jerry...except for occasional weekend flings of course. Now, for the first time ever in my whole life, I can see a legitimate bicep! These arm muscles feel like badges of honor to surviving the hardest few months of my adult life and coming out the other side a little stronger. 

This past weekend, I took my new strength on a tour of two 4000-footers in the New Hampshire White Mountains. When I reached the top of the second peak feeling physically tired but absolutely full of strength and joy, I knew I had successfully climbed out.

Naturally, I flexed.  

The post Seven Months Into the Pandemic and I’m…Carving Biceps for the First Time appeared first on Another Mother Runner.



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Authentic Caesar Dressing

Authentic Caesar Dressing is rich creamy and so much better homemade than from a jar. You are going to love how simple this really is and the savory flavor is going to WOW you! It will Change the way you eat anything Caesar forever!

Dressing is one of the best ways to add flavor, you can put dressings on so many things besides salad too. Try these dressings on what ever you desire, from chicken, to wraps, and marinades. Greek Salad Dressing, Avocado Ranch Dressing, and Cilantro Lime Dressing.

Rich and Creamy Authentic Caesar Dressing.

Authentic Caesar Salad Dressing

Now I know what you might be thinking…Anchovies? Gross! But trust me the only way to really get that incredible authentic Caesar flavor is to use Anchovies. They provide that briny blast of goodness and that rich umami flavor. Umami literally means pleasant savory taste, which is exactly what the anchovies provide. You don’t want to leave it out.

This is luscious, velvety smooth and tangy. It will really elevate your Caesar recipes. Knowing what’s in your dressing always brings peace of mind too. It’s so easy to throw together, you won’t buy from the store again.

Caesar Dressing Ingredients:

This is so good you’ll want to keep these ingredients on hand.

  • Anchovies in oil– Don’t be scared of anchovies, they are the authentic impeccable umami flavor of Caesar dressing. It’s a must have. Don’t worry it won’t be fishy. You can do this!
  • Garlic Cloves-Fresh garlic will give the best flavor.
  • Lemon Juice-recommend fresh lemon juice but if you don’t have it lemon juice from a bottle will work
  • Dijon Mustard-It’s another essential ingredient to giving the dressing it’s classic flavor.
  • Olive Oil– Olive oil mixes smoothly in dressings.
  • Parmesan Cheese-Use grated parmesan for easy mixing.
  • Pepper-Add just to taste

Making Authentic Dressing:

So simple to throw together. Seriously!

  1. In a food processor add the anchovies, egg yolks, garlic and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth and creamy. Add in the Dijon mustard, olive oil and parmesan cheese. Again pulse until smooth.

Making Rich and Creamy Authentic Caesar Dressing.

Tips for the Best Caesar Dressing:

  • Anchovies– These are usually found in the canned fish aisle of your store and sold in glass jars or flat tins. If you don’t really want to use the fillet you can sub for anchovy paste. 1 anchovy fillet equals 1/2 teaspoon of anchovy paste. It will give a slightly different flavor, but still works.
  • Capers– Still can’t do the anchovies? You can use capers instead, still not quite the same flavor but it will work. Start with 2 Tablespoons of capers and a splash of Worcestershire Sauce. Add more to taste.
  • Egg Yolks– If you are worried about the raw egg or you’re pregnant be sure to use pasteurized eggs or you can use mayonnaise.  Substitute 1 Tablespoon of mayo fo reach egg yolk.

Storing Salad Dressing:

  • Fridge– Because of the egg yolk in this dressing it needs to be refrigerated immediately if not using right away. This will keep up to 3 days.

Rich and Creamy Authentic Caesar Dressing.

Recipes to Use with this Amazing Dressing:

This can be use on anything Caesar related or get creative and use it where ever you crave this tasty dressing!

Print

Authentic Caesar Dressing

Authentic Caesar Dressing is rich creamy and so much better homemade than from a jar. You are going to love how simple this really is and the savory flavor is going to WOW you! It will Change the way you eat anything Caesar forever!
Course Dressing, Sauce
Cuisine American, Greek
Keyword authentic caesar dressing, caesar dressinig
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 32 Tablespoons
Calories 42kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 6 anchovies in oil
  • 2 egg yolks*
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

  • In a food processor add the anchovies, egg yolks, garlic and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth and creamy. Add in the dijon mustard, olive oil and parmesan cheese. Continue to pulse until smooth.

Notes

*If you don't want to use raw eggs, greek yogurt or mayonnaise is a good substitute.

Nutrition

Calories: 42kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 57mg | Potassium: 10mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 28IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg


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17 Cute and Affordable Workout Clothes For Curvy Women - All From Amazon

Shopping for workout clothes isn't always easy, especially if you're looking on a budget or searching for specific sizes. To help you find your perfect match, we turned to Amazon. The site carries an array of brands we know and love in addition to its own impressive fit lines. Ahead, we've curated a list of its most comfortable and affordable choices, so all you have to do is shop. Keep reading to check out our favourites.



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AMR Gears Up: Best Running Gear for Dogs

Best Running Gear for Dogs: the next edition of Another Mother Runner Gears Up. We have #motherrunners—and their four-legged friends—put key running gear to the test, then deliver the results so you can grab the gear that works best for your running and body. 

By Allison Pattillo

Running with your favorite furry friend can be a wonderful way for both of you to get a workout and also incredibly frustrating at the same time, even ending in scrapes and tears (for me). Besides training, this often comes down to having the best running gear for dogs.

We set out to make the experience as enjoyable as possible for canines and their humans by reviewing the latest and best running gear for dogs. Whether you have issues with pulling, running with two dogs, how to carry water, or visibility, we have solutions. We also have the pictures to prove that these are some happy dogs!

And, while we didn’t review this tank (we discovered it just as this article was being published), sporting this pooch-themed Distance Graphic Tank from Brooks lets you wear your canine love right over your heart, with a gentle reminder to “Be the runner your dog thinks you are.”

Black Rhino Comfort Collar and Black Rhino Hands Free Leash

"The medium collar proved to have the Goldilocks fit for Sadie. It fit just right, and the padding on it seemed really comfortable for her.

The Hands Free Leash is the real star of the show. The leash has both a stationary clip, perfect for using on the road or sidewalks to offer a bit more directional control, and a clip that glides that made our trails runs more fun for Sadie and less stressful for me. The gliding clip allows Sadie to choose the best path for her without pulling me along. When Sadie saw chipmunks or squirrels, and decided to give chase, the bungee section of the leash meant she had a little thrill and I remained standing.

The leash has two handles, which make it easy for me to guide her if needed or get her out of the way of other runners or cyclists. It also comes with a pouch, which is perfect for carrying training treats, a dog waste bag and car keys." - Casii and her dog Sadie, who is part Weimaraner and part German shorthair pointer

Price: $18.95 for collar/$19.95 for leash

Perfect for: Anyone who’s ever complained of being jerked off their feet or having their arms pulled while running with dogs

Grab it here: blackrhinoonline.com

Tuff Mutt Adventure Dog Harness and Poop Bag Holder

"No matter what I do, Rooney is a puller, but this harness hit her in a way that didn’t cause her to choke when she wanted to get going. We live in California and it can get hot on our runs, yet the harness seemed breathable and gave her no hotspots or blisters and has padding in all the right places. I also like that it has two different attachment points for the leash (attaching a leash to the point on the back means less leash tangles). The harness was the easiest I’ve ever used, truly it took just a minute to get figured out, for a snug, comfortable, and secure fit.

The poop bag dispenser was something I didn’t know I needed! I attached it to my leash handle, and it keeps bags (plus cash/credit card and a key) handy." - Kat and her Australian Shepherd Rooney

Price: $34.99 for harness/$19.99 for bag holder

Perfect for: Anyone with energetic running and hiking dogs who need durable products, and for those who don’t have pockets in their running clothes

Grab it here: tuffmutt.com

Running Gear for Dogs

Lifekey Fetch Pet Tag

"Waylon is a rescue who has had several names, meaning getting him to come when called can be a challenge (oddly enough, he usually comes when we say, “Let’s go!”), and he can get far away in the blink of an eye. While he is microchipped, having the Fetch Pet Tag on his collar gives great peace of mind that he’ll make it back to us safely if he does escape because it’s so easy to use. The scan feature is built-in on most newer iPhones, plus the tag also provides information to download the app if needed.

I’m especially excited for the tracking feature, it’s an expansion of Lifekey’s human technology that allows people to check in before an activity, in the works that will allow me to see where Waylon ventures when he runs off-leash at home. Since Waylon tends to have some anxiety, the fact that the tag is silicone means it doesn’t jangle his nerves or mine, and there’s no pesky subscription service." - Allison and Waylon, an anxious Border Collie/Catahoula Leopard Dog/Great Pyrenees mix who is very fast, follows his nose, and does not come when called

Price: $25

Perfect for: Confidence that you and your pooch will be reunited in case you lose each other

Grab it here: lifekey.co

Running Gear for Dogs

Ruffwear Trail Runner Dog Leash Belt System

"This is a GREAT product for road or trail running with your dog, especially if you like to carry hydration—which we do. I really love the leash attachment system, how it allowed Rollie to switch from side to side without pulling me, and the quick release on the bungee leash if needed. It really changed how Rollins and I moved together, for the good. Once I got the waist belt adjusted (I deducted half a point because it was a bit tricky to adjust when I was wearing it with Rollie attached), it did not bounce, and I forgot I was wearing it.

The belt also had plenty of pockets for stashing gear, poop bags, gels, and a zipped pocket to hold my phone and keys." - Courtney and her pittie mix Rollins, aka Rollie Pollie (“Rollins isn’t built like a runner, but neither am I. And we both ADORE running.)

Price: $69.95

Perfect for: When you want to carry your phone, water for you and Fido, plus run hands free

Grab it here: ruffwear.com

Nite Ize Nite Howl LED Safety Necklace

"Charlie is dark chocolate brown and we live in an urban area, so, with darkness coming early in the evenings, this is 100% necessary on nighttime outings. My kids loved how it changed colors and it’s easy to charge with a USB cord. Keep in mind this isn’t designed to replace a collar, it’s meant to wear in addition to a collar in low light situations." - Katie, Ella, Maeve, Annie and their chocolate lab, Charlie

Price: $19.99

Perfect for: Keeping your dog visible in low light and at night

Grab it here: niteize.com

Running Gear for Dogs

Noxgear Lighthound

"This durable harness, with a secure leash attachment, makes it sure your dog will have 360 degrees of visibility for up to a quarter of a mile. The harness is rechargeable, washable, adjustable, and has six colors of light in flashing mode and eight colors in solid light mode. There’s no doubt your pooch will light up the coldest winter night in this harness. FYI, they make a human version as well!"

Price: $69.95

Perfect for: Being noticed with every stride and major “cool dog” vibes (you may or may not hear a sick dance club beat in your head as you run…..)

Grab it here: noxgear.com

Running Gear for Dogs

Ruffwear Double Track Dog Leash Coupler

"I LOVED the leash coupler! Having to run with two leashes is such a pain and having the dogs together on one leash was much easier. I felt like they were more on task and didn’t wander as much, since they were closer to each other. And, it felt safer for all of us. The bungee effect of the coupler was nice for giving all of us a bit of independence from each other. However, I did take off half a point because in a quick stop situation, it’s more challenging to get a hard stop out of the dogs since they weren’t feeling a hard stop from the leash. That said, I still plan to use this all of the time." - Ashley and her black lab mixes, Zoe and Autumn

Price: $24.95 for leash coupler

Perfect for: Running with two dogs

Grab it here: ruffwear.com

Running Gear for Dogs

Vapur EZ Lick Foldable Dog Water Bottle

"Waylon is very specific about his water bottles—if the stream is too fast or makes a scary squirting sound with the last squeeze, he gets spooked. It’s a process. What makes this new offering so cool, is that water is dispensed via roller ball technology (like roll-on deodorant). The licking seemed to calm Waylon, and he got the water he wanted without the “scary” experience of having water squirted in his face. Figuring out how to fill the bottle the first time took a hot second, and it did require a bit of getting used to when carrying it on the run, but seeing how happy it made Waylon, it’s worth it. When I’m wearing a hydration pack, it’s super easy to stash in a pocket, and has a sturdy clip to attach it a pack or your belt when hiking." - Allison and Waylon, an anxious Border Collie/Catahoula Leopard Dog/Great Pyrenees mix

Price: $19.99

Perfect for: Thirsty pups on the go

Grab it here: vapur.us

Check out all of the AMR Gears Up columns here!

Did we miss your favorite running gear for dogs?
Let us know in the comments below!

The post AMR Gears Up: Best Running Gear for Dogs appeared first on Another Mother Runner.



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A Trainer Shares How to Strengthen Your Upper Body, Once and For All - Plus, Her 7 Key Moves

It really pays to have a strong upper body in life, whether you're lugging a heavy box up your stairs, heaving a suitcase onto a rack, or toughing out a plank sequence or Chaturanga in yoga. That extra strength in your arms, back, and shoulders helps you get through everyday life injury-free and feeling good. If you struggle to build upper-body strength, it can be frustrating to work this area and not get the results you want. We consulted Jennifer Nagel, ACE-certified personal trainer and CEO of Figured Out Fitness, to find out exactly what you should do to get a strong upper body.

Why Should You Strengthen Your Upper Body?

We already touched on some of the ways upper-body strength can aid you in everyday life, and Nagel said this is just one reason to work this part of your body. "We use upper-body strength in everyday movements such as pulling, pushing, and reaching," she told POPSUGAR. "Building upper-body strength makes these everyday movements easier and safer."

A strong upper body can also promote good posture. "Strong and balanced muscles of the shoulder, back, chest, and core are critical in your posture and body alignment," Nagel explained. And healthy posture is about more than sitting up straight; it can help you prevent joint pain, arthritis, muscle fatigue, and injury, Nagel said.

How Can I Build Upper-Body Strength?

"Building strength is simply creating enough external force or resistance to create muscle adaptation," Nagel said. Essentially, resistance work forces your muscles to grow stronger in order to adapt to the stress you're putting on them; if you're not adding external force, those muscles have no reason to get stronger. For your upper body, you can do this with resistance equipment, like dumbbells, resistance bands, and machines, or with bodyweight moves. And while the dumbbells and barbells get a lot of the attention when it comes to building muscle, Nagel said some of her favourite upper-body exercises are actually dynamic bodyweight moves. We'll talk more about those below.

Consistency with your workouts is also crucial for building upper-body strength. Nagel recommends doing two to three strength sessions a week that incorporate upper-body exercises. Aiming for three to five sets of six to 12 reps for each exercise is a good place to start, but since every body is different, it's always best to consult an expert, such as a personal trainer, for a plan that'll help you achieve your individual goals. One key, though, "is to allow two to three days of rest in between sessions for your body to recover and to prevent overuse injuries," Nagel said. Don't neglect the recovery aspect, she stressed. "More exercise doesn't always equal better. Make sure you take time off between your workouts and incorporate recovery methods such as stretching, foam rolling, and massage to stay injury-free." You can also mix in cardio workouts on your non-strength days if you still want to get some exercise in.

What Exercises Should I Do to Build Upper-Body Strength?

Equipment like dumbbells and resistance bands are helpful for building upper-body strength, but not mandatory; bodyweight moves are great too. "Some of my favourite upper-body exercises are dynamic bodyweight movements such as bear crawls, crab walks, and moving push-ups," Nagel said. "They build upper-body strength while working on mobility and coordination." Compound moves like overhead presses, and push-ups are great too; "they work multiple muscle groups at the same time and they mimic everyday movement patterns."

Ahead, check out seven of Nagel's favourite moves and variations for building strength in your upper body. She recommends combining these exercises with lower-body or full-body moves for a more well-rounded strength workout.



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Texture Talk: Aaron Wallace is Serving the Grooming Industry’s Underrepresented Customer — Black Men

The male grooming industry has blown up to become a multi-billion dollar trade, but through its soaring success, much of which is due to the beard movement, the industry has failed to recognize one particular customer with incredible buying power — Black men.

Whether located on their heads or face, the needs of Black men’s afro-textured hair is unique, yet product lines directed at them across mass and prestige markets are hugely underrepresented. It’s rare to find catered primping solutions on the shelves of major retailers, especially high-end, and whenever you do, the products are usually assigned to a separate, dingy section.

Aaron Wallace is on a mission to change that narrative. The British barber-turned-grooming-brand-founder has his own eponymous natural hair and beard care range for Black men, a line that was born out of his South East London barbershop. “How I came into the Aaron Wallace brand was simply through having conversations [with clients]. Cutting hair day in and day out, you become not only someone’s barber, but also like their hair doctor,” shares Wallace.

Photograph courtesy of Aaron Wallace

Through these chats, Wallace says that he noticed that many of his Black male clients were dealing with the same hair issues, like constant dryness and receding hairlines. Aware of the lack of products on the market that properly catered to their needs, and uncomfortable recommending most of what was out there, the hair pro decided to take action with a four-piece, paraben-free line (which is now officially available in Canada via international shipping) that easily fits into any grooming routine no matter how simple or extensive it is. “I just found that there was such a need for my customers – and for myself. [Being a barber], I thought I was in the best position to find a solution for this.”

Since launching the Aaron Wallace brand, the entrepreneur has closed up shop to focus solely on his hair and beard care range. “The goal has been to produce products that are multi-functional and of a quality premium feel,” he says.

We recently caught up with the ex-barber virtually to chat hero ingredients, building his brand and the grooming industry at large. Read on for what he shared.

On building his grooming brand and landing on the right hero ingredients and formula:

“The first thing I did was look into the key differences between afro hair and other hair types. By doing research into the fundamental makeup of afro-textured hair, I was able to find ingredients that were really good for addressing afro-hair needs. For example, with textured hair, one of the main issues we’re very prone to is dryness because of the curl patterns, especially when you’re living in cooler countries. So once I had the issues I wanted to tackle, it was all about hero ingredients. I found that mango butter [is great] for maintaining hydration in the hair and that black seed oil is one of those almost mythical ingredients: It has so many holistic health benefits in terms of cleansing the hair and [promoting] hair growth. Mango seed butter and black seed oil ended up being the two staples I wanted to work with.

After that, I became the guinea pig. I tested all other ingredient ideas on myself and tested different formulations until I got to a point where I liked it. I then took products to customers and other Black men and ran a few focus groups to get their thoughts and feelings on what they thought could be improved. From there, we started to do the manufacturing.”

On his full Aaron Wallace product line-up:

“Our focus has always been on the solutions to healthy afro hair. I found that in order to really grow and maintain afro hair, you need to cleanse and preferably with a natural cleanser that doesn’t strip the hair too much of its natural oils. Then you need to condition with, again, a natural conditioner that helps to strengthen and improve the actual condition of the hair strand. Then it’s about locking in moisture. So we started with our shampoo, conditioner and hair moisturizer, and the final step was my hair and beard oil, which helps to seal in all that moisture you added in plus adds extra nutrients.”

On what still needs to change in mainstream grooming to better serve Black men:

“One of the key things we’re big about is accessibility. When I started out, there were barely any products on the market that were made for Black men. In the UK, it was a big quest to go and find afro-hair shops to begin with, and when you did find one, most of the products were tailored to women. I just felt Black men were really underserved. When I go to a large supermarket to do my weekly shop and I see hair brands on the shelves, I should be able to find something catered to my hair texture as well.”

On the brand’s most popular markets worldwide:

“The UK is our top in terms of sales, and second is the US. Almost half of our Instagram followers are from the US. I’ve also found that the issue of being underserved that many Black men were facing in the UK [was also the experience of] many in other parts of the EU as well, so we have a lot of customers from countries like Germany and France. They say the same thing: There isn’t anything there formulated for their hair types.”

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Love your roots 👑

A post shared by Aaron Wallace Grooming (@byaaronwallace) on

On his biggest grooming tip:

“When it comes to any haircare, it’s important to know that there are two sides to the coin: the internal and external. The internal is about making sure that you’re eating and sleeping well and avoiding as much stress as possible by keeping those cortisol levels down. With the external, it’s important to remember that it’s all about consistency and a routine. I always compare grooming to going to the gym. If you go and work out on Monday you’re not going to see real results on Tuesday. Working out is a thing you have to continually do, and if you maintain a routine and stay consistent, you’ll see results. It’s the same thing with haircare.”

Missed our last Texture Talk column? Click here.

The post Texture Talk: Aaron Wallace is Serving the Grooming Industry’s Underrepresented Customer — Black Men appeared first on FASHION Magazine.



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Bottega Veneta Launches Exclusive Pouch Bag for Vancouver Pop-Up

If you’ve been pondering buying a Pouch bag from Bottega Veneta, might we suggest that now is the perfect time to do so, given that the brand has just released an exclusive colourway to celebrate its new pop-up in Vancouver?

Opening today, the pop-up is located in Vancouver’s Holt Renfrew, and will run until October 24. The store will house a wide selection of Fall 2020 womenswear pieces, including accessories, footwear and leather goods – specifically the brand’s cult-favourite Pouch handbag. In celebration of the pop-up, the brand has launched the Chain Pouch bag in a Porridge colour with a chunky gold chain detail ($5,040) and the pop-up is the only place to get your hands on the colour in Canada. The bag is already a wear-with-everything staple in the wardrobes of the fashion industry and Hollywood’s most stylish women, and this beautiful neutral is no exception.

bottega veneta pouch bag
Photograph courtesy of Bottega Veneta.

And in case you need any more of a reason to make the bag yours, luxury handbag resale site Rebag just released the first report associated with Clair, its automated luxury appraisal index which launched last year. According to the report, the Pouch is a very safe bet for value retention. In fact, the Pouch has an 86 per cent value retention on average. Bottega Veneta handbags in general have increased in value retention by 10 per cent in 2020 versus 2019, too – the brand’s Jodie Hobo is another good investment option, with a 95 per cent average value retention.

With the holidays right around the corner, this little beauty has skyrocketed right to the top of our wishlists.

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