... Move over London, Paris, NY and Milan – Seoul Fashion Week documented some of the best street style looks of the season. Creative...
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| Hydrating Super Balm |
Tell me a bit about yourself and your journey so far…
Originally from Australia, I moved to Scotland in 2008.
I was one of those many people who had suffered from dermatitis / eczema prone skin, for what feels like forever… I was diagnosed with it when I was in late primary school and then spent the next 20 + years using various steroid ointments, cortisone creams and trying to find skin cleansers and moisturisers that didn’t exacerbate the problem areas. It would come and go in waves and when it was bad, it as baaaaad (think cracked & bleeding skin, blisters and itches so bad they made me cry). So I became really reliant on the steroid products, because it felt like they were the only thing that really “fixed” it. The thing was, these creams were only ever a temporary respite… and often made things worse, but back then I didn’t care… if it stopped the itch - good.
A few years ago after another nasty bout, I had a realisation. I just couldn’t continue slathering my skin with products that not only were full of horrible sounding chemicals but were also not actually helping my skin health. This coincided with a weekend mucking about in my kitchen playing with lip balm recipes – and things started to come together!
I began a lengthy journey (which is still on-going) to learn about more natural products. I’d always had an interest in more natural remedies and knew that plant based ingredients were really good for us, but I’d never delved into the world.
One of the key things I learned was just how dry my skin was. So I began reading, learning, researching and experimenting on my own skin. And now? I haven’t touched a steroid cream for nearly three years. Happy days!
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| Lucy Cardwell |
Have you always wanted your own business?
Not at all! My background is visual arts. I went to Art School in Australia, and worked for a long time in galleries, museums, events etc. Running my own business was never really something I strived for. Saying that though, I think it’s been the best thing I’ve ever done!
When I moved from office work and began Lucky Cloud full time, I thought I would miss the “office banter” and feel lonely working on my own. But I actually quite like it.
I’m also lucky that my office and workspace is in a large building with lots of other amazing small businesses. So there’s a fab creative, supportive energy around me.
We’re aware all of your products are natural, and vegan friendly. Was there anything in particular that inspired this?
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| Nourishing Cleansing Balm |
We’re aware all of your products are natural, and vegan friendly. Was there anything in particular that inspired this?
I guess my skin issues are what began the journey into the plant based industry. I’ve always had a belief in the “power of plants”, but once I started researching ingredients and trying to understand, to some degree, what goes in to products my eyes were opened.
Like a lot of people these days as well, there is a greater awareness of and desire to reduce the toxins and nasty chemicals that we’re using.
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| Lucky Cloud Skincare |
How do you formulate your products - what does the process look like?
I describe it as sort of working backwards. I generally try to think about what I want the product to do and who it’s for first before experimenting with blends. I’ll give you an example:
So, I wanted to create a face oil (which is ultimately a face moisturiser) for people with combination / acne prone skin. It needed to include oils that would soften, hydrate and nourish the skin, while at the same time not be too heavy, help to re-balance sebum production and target the acne-prone areas diminishing and calming infected areas.
And so I began a lot of research, questions and note taking. Which oils do I already love using? Which of those will be suitable? What other oils have I wanted to experiment with?
Once a “first draft” is created, I test it on myself for a period of time and refine it depending on skin feel, smell and skin condition after a few applications etc. Then I gather a group of product testers, who get to try them out and in return I ask them fill out a lengthy survey. With this information I then tweak recipes if required.
You might think it’s then ready to sell? Nuh-uh. I’ve then got to submit each product for a Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR), compile my own Product Information File (PIF), upload product info on a European Cosmetic Online Portal, write the product description and directions, have the label designed and printed, get the product photographed and THEN I can start to sell it…. Phew.
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| Balancing Face Oil |
What does 24 hours usually look like for you?
As soon as I wake up, I try to do a bit of yoga and stretching to waken my body up and get it relaxed and feeling strong for the day ahead. Then, after breakfast I walk to work, which usually takes about 20 mins – I like the fact that I can incorporate some physical exercise twice a day with my normal routine.
As soon as I arrive at work the computer is on – and to be honest that’s where most of the day is spent! There is a lot of admin involved in running any business. Answering emails, updating software, website changes, SEO, writing blog posts, researching potential new stockists… the list goes on! I usually take a break from the computer mid morning to pack up any online or wholesale orders.
If I’m running low on any products, then I’ll spend some time manufacturing. This takes more time and I’ll usually shut all tech down and turn the music up and get to work!
I usually tend to do more admin stuff in the afternoon. I've always got lots of lists, which help me remember what I need to focus on throughout the week
Have you faced any challenges in your entrepreneurial journey so far? And if so how have you overcome them?
I think anyone running a business will have faced challenges. It can be tough when you’re the sole decision maker. Sometimes things pan out, sometimes they don’t, but the most important thing I’ve learned is not to let those tough times totally overwhelm me.
It’s a huge learning process being an entrepreneur. A constant learning process. Find like-minded people who can inspire and support you. I’ve joined an online group called WE Mean Business, which is a group for women entrepreneurs. They are the best, most bad-ass group of women who all support each other. I’ve developed real friendships through it, discovered new stockists and networked with inspirational women.
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| Coconut Lip Butter |
Who and what inspires you?
Nature and my friends and family. I love the smell, colours and patterns of nature; flowers, leaves, trees, sand, sunsets and clouds. My friends & family are an incredible source of support and inspiration - from their constant complimentary feedback to telling me what they’re looking for in future products or what they currently love to use.
What is your most proud moment to date?
I think the proudest I feel is when strangers leave me reviews or comment on my products. Knowing I’ve created something that someone really loves and is helping them feel better about their skin is so heart-warming. I do actually cry sometimes when I read things like this…
“Love your body balm and even use it on my face, it's excellent! A little goes such a long way! Face oil next for me; thank you for such lovely cruelty free skincare it's a delight”
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| Nourishing Face Oil |
What would you say are three attributes needed to make a young woman successful?
Determination – it all takes a lot of hard work
Positivity – you have to remain positive, even when things feel like they’re falling apart
Patience – nothing is going to happen overnight, but you’ll get there if you want to
What advice would you give to The Beauty Run readers who are interested in starting their own skin care line?
Do your research. Find your niche. Be aware that there is a lot of research, experimenting and paperwork to be done before you’ll get anything ready to sell commercially. There are a lot of legal requirements throughout the product development and there’s no way you can take short cuts.
Oh and don’t try and do everything yourself… hire a graphic designer, a photographer, a web-developer, a copy writer – whatever area you don’t have strong skills in… I think women are particularly bad at thinking we can do it all ourselves. And while we’re incredible, it’s ok to not be able to do it all
Interviewed and edited by: Malika Isles
... After battling with dermatitis and eczema prone skin for years, Lucy Cardwell decided it was time to tackle this by setting up her o...
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It’s still too warm for heavy knits, but too cool for denim shorts and tank tops, and to our surprise, it’s still very much transition season…
Whether you own some of these items already, or need to head to the shops – we’ve put together a guide to help you through:
Oversized Cardigan
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| Zara £49.99 |
An oversized cardi is the easiest way to survive this season without needing to break the bank. Simply wear some of your summer outfits (that you’re probably not ready to box up yet), and chuck on one of these bad boys to keep you warm. Oversized cardis scream effortless chic, which many celebrities have been working just recently.
Cropped Jumper
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| Pretty Little Thing £20.00 |
If you’re not ready to cover up completely yet, a cropped jumper is a good piece to have in your wardrobe as it is more than suitable for this strange in-between weather. Plus, it’s a versatile piece that can be paired with so many things. From a pair of boyfriend jeans, to a high waisted skirt or even wide leg trousers. Extra tip: choose earthy tones when purchasing in a piece to achieve that autumnal look.
Chelsea Boots
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| H&M £49.99 |
These boots are a classic staple and a must have in your autumn wardrobe. They can be styled in so many ways, for example a gorgeous flowing dress on the warmer days or a chunky knit and jeans during those chilly moments. Done!
Mini Skirt
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| Zara £25.99 |
Checked grey tartan is in for the autumn and winter months, and for the confusing weather - what better way to do this then invest in a mini skirt? A mini skirt can be styled with a bare leg and knee high boots on the slightly warmer days, but can also be layered with tights or leggings when we reach the depths of winter. This skirt can also be dressed up quite easily with a blouse, or with a jumper or T-shirt on more of a casual day. Perfect investment.
Words By: Gayle Cortez
(Edited By Malika Isles)
... Although, usually the weather is known to be a lot cooler here in London during the month of October – it’s been fairly warm. With...
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It’s Halloween after all so anything goes and many beauty brands have a colour palette to cater to our spooky or glam needs. We’re here to show you the best beauty bits we’ve collected to ensure the 31st October, is a success.
Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
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| Pumpkin Enzyme Mask |
No pumpkin carving is required for this beauty tip to rid your skin of any dead cells. Just slather on this pumpkin mix for the smoothest Halloween skin.
Unicorn Cosmetics Brushes
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| Unicorn Cosmetics Brushes |
It’s time to cast your own make up spell and there’s no better way to do it than with these spookalicious, heat reactive brushes enclosed in their very own coffin case.
Beauty Bakerie Gelato
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| Beauty Bakerie Gelato |
Cook up a storm in the Beauty Bakerie with these gelato pots that will bring your eyes to life. Defining your lash line with a pop of colour you can sketch, flick, shape or recreate your greatest Halloween eyes.
Kylie Jenner Lip Kit
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| Kylie Lipkit in Vixen |
This secret Halloween weapon is the best for a deadly lip. Labelled itself as the blackened vampy look, a deep plum lip is all that’s needed.
Disco Ball Sparkles
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| Violet Voss in Holo Smokes |
Not just festival fashion, glitter tears equal gothic glam. Gather the glitter dust under the eye for grunge spooky, beauty.
Adhesive Talons
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| Henry Holland Jet Jems |
Step your nail game up and channel your inner mysterious vibe with jet-black crystal talons. There is such a thing as sassy witches.
Take it all off
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| Charlotte Tilbury Take It All Off |
There’s no better way to rid you of your Halloween sins than an oil rich cleanser that removes the toughest of long wear make up. Like a ghost, traces of the night are gone!
... As the haunting period looms, it’s time to prepare for the event and we don’t just mean our costumes. We have high expectations tha...
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| Source: Vogue |
Ralph & Russo is a luxury British brand controlled by Australian couple Tamara Ralph and Michael Russo. Their pieces have been graced on the red carpet by many celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Blake Lively and many more. With a client list that has grown to a several thousand, they can be compared with any of the dignified French maisons.
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| Source: Vogue |
Dancing silhouettes masqueraded down the runway escorted by the buzzing sound waves of Electro pop. With the models surrounded by white branded lampposts and light grey pillars, this set the ambiance for a series of luxurious, classic and sophisticated looks. Including pleated dresses, frilled panelled dresses and hints of oriental prints - the colour palette was made up of midnight blue, ivory, pastel blues, metallic and olive greens.
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| Source: Vogue |
Tantalised by the array of fabrics used; appearing in the distance gliding towards the end of the runway came a silk, pastel blue jumpsuit. Its whimsical silhouette shimmered whilst grasped with a floral textile belt around the waist. Engulfed in frills and pleats from the neckline down, this piece embodied the brands love for detailing.
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| Source: Vogue |
Co–ord at its finest, the abstract zip function petty coat emerged from the runway accompanied by a matching cropped top and pencil skirt. Detailing featured origami like folds embedded onto the front panels of skirt and bodice, and the coat. The look was completed with silver metallic court heels and a sparkly silver handbag.
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| Source: Vogue |
A halter neck collared blouse tucked into oversized culottes gathered at the waist, and emphasised by a wide white waist belt was another look I adored. Styled again with a simple court shoe, Ralph and Russo show us how simple can be stylish.
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| Source: Vogue |
The makeup looks featured heavy under eyeliner in metallic colours, paired with nude lips. For hair, straight tresses were slicked back behind the ears.
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| Source: Vogue |
Overall this collection is a fashion fanatics dream - the presentation of metallic oversized denim jackets, sophisticated trench bodice jumpsuits and the brands classic whimsical sheer and lace gowns was literally orgasmic. Spring Summer 18 is set to be a luxurious season.
Words By: Henrietta Darko
Lace flares, sheer dresses, belted waists and laser cut panelled skirts were seen floating along the Ralph & Russo runway for thei...
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Clinique Even Better Glow Foundation - £27.00
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| Clinique's Even Better Glow |
Smashbox Cover Eye Palette in Ablaze - £24.00
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| Smashbox Cover Eye Palette |
MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour in High Drama - £17.59
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| MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour |
YSL's La Laque Couture - £19.50
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| YSL's La Laque Couture |
Words By: Stephanie Orr
... The true elements of a season are often defined through a make up regime, especially where Autumn is concerned. And now that we’ve ...
