Jolie, an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Tony Award-winning actress, is known not only for her contributions to film and theatre but also for her impactful humanitarian work. With over two decades dedicated to advocating for refugees and human rights, Jolie has long been a force for good on the global stage. Recently, she extended her influence into the world of fashion by founding Atelier Jolie, a creative space that empowers artists and consumers alike to participate in sustainable fashion.

The TOM FORD campaign, shot by the renowned photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, is a cinematic tribute to feminine power. It features Jolie preparing for a role, embodying a character whose charisma captivates the camera. The visuals, rich in style and elegance, reflect a portrait of a woman who commands attention, drawing strength and confidence from the boldness of her lipstick—specifically, her chosen shade, 16 Scarlet Rouge.

Tom Ford, a brand synonymous with luxury and sophistication, first made its mark in the lip category with the launch of the Private Blend Lip Color Collection in 2010. The new TOM FORD Runway Lip Color continues this legacy, introducing a range of 18 shades designed to make a statement. This collection includes 10 of the brand’s classic shades alongside 8 new additions, offering a palette that caters to every mood and occasion.

What sets this collection apart is its innovative formula. Crafted with a hydrating complex, the lipstick promises to condition lips with luxurious emollience while delivering rich, fade-resistant colour. It’s a product designed not just for aesthetics but also for comfort, embodying the transformative power that Tom Ford believes a strong lip colour can bring.

The campaign, with its focus on Jolie’s unique blend of beauty, strength, and commitment to self-expression, aims to redefine what it means to wear luxury. Jolie’s collaboration with Tom Ford marks a new chapter in her illustrious career, one that blends her passion for art, fashion, and activism.

As the collection debuts, fans and fashion enthusiasts can expect to see Jolie’s powerful presence not just on screen but also in the world of high-end beauty, where her influence continues to resonate. The TOM FORD Runway Lip Color is set to become a staple for those who, like Jolie, see beauty as a form of self-expression and empowerment.

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A New Chapter for CK One

CK One Essence marks a bold addition to the CK One portfolio, a scent that revolutionised the fragrance world in the 1990s with its gender-neutral appeal and minimalist design. The new fragrance, crafted by Master Perfumer Alberto Morillas from dms-firmenich, promises an enhanced olfactory experience with double the concentration of the original eau de toilette. This upgrade aims to deliver a more potent and long-lasting freshness, modernising the classic CK One with a contemporary twist.

The fragrance opens with vibrant top notes of Italian Bergamot and blood orange, sourced responsibly from a family-owned farm in Calabria. These initial scents are designed to offer an energising and explosive start. At the heart of CK One Essence, a selection of high-quality teas, including organic green tea, adds a modern, invigorating freshness. The base of the fragrance features a unique musk upcycled from the paper industry, combined with creamy sandalwood, providing a warm and sensual finish.

Campaign and Packaging

To launch CK One Essence, Calvin Klein has teamed up with acclaimed creative director Alasdair McLellan. The campaign showcases a dynamic cast moving with a rebellious spirit, set against the anthemic backdrop of New Order’s “Blue Monday.” This visual representation captures the essence of CK One’s heritage—sensuality, unity, and individuality—celebrating a generation that embodies these values.

The packaging for CK One Essence reflects a modern, premium aesthetic while staying true to the simplicity of the original CK One flask. The bottle features a removable pump and a translucent metallic finish that highlights the fragrance inside. The secondary metallic carton enhances the luxurious nature of the scent’s ingredients.

Availability and Product Line-Up

CK One Essence will be available from 1 August 2024 in three sizes: 50 ml, 100 ml, and a larger 200 ml bottle, which will be released in April 2025. This new offering is set to continue the legacy of CK One, which was introduced in 1994 as the world’s first gender-inclusive fragrance. Known for its modern minimalism and anti-perfume attitude, CK One captured the zeitgeist of the 1990s, becoming a cultural touchstone with its bold, defiant campaign and universal appeal.

Legacy and Innovation

The launch of CK One Essence reaffirms Calvin Klein’s commitment to innovation while paying tribute to the timeless appeal of the original CK One. As the fragrance evolves for a new generation, it remains a symbol of inclusivity and modern style, reflecting both the heritage and future of the Calvin Klein brand.

For further details on CK One Essence, visit Calvin Klein’s website.

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Protect Your Skin from the Sun

The most crucial step in any summer skincare routine is sun protection. Experts recommend incorporating a high SPF, such as SPF 30 or 50, into your daily regimen. This should be applied after cleansing but before moisturising to fully shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Proper sun protection can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer, premature ageing, sunburn, and hyperpigmentation.

It’s important to apply suncream to all exposed areas of the skin, including often-overlooked spots such as the ears, neck, and scalp. Reapplication throughout the day is key, as factors like sweating, swimming, and physical activity can cause suncream to wear off, leaving skin vulnerable to damage.

Hydrate from the Inside Out

Staying hydrated is vital for both overall health and skin health, particularly in the heat. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep skin hydrated from the inside out. In addition to water, consuming water-rich foods such as oranges, cucumbers, avocados, nuts, and sweet potatoes can further contribute to maintaining a glowing, hydrated complexion.

For external hydration, experts suggest opting for a lightweight moisturiser during the warmer months. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerine, aloe vera, and lactic acid are particularly effective at locking in moisture. Keeping a cucumber or rose facial mist on hand can also provide a quick hydration boost on the go.

Managing Oil and Sweat

Summer heat can lead to increased oil production and sweating, which can cause clogged pores and breakouts. To combat this, skincare experts recommend using oil-free and non-comedogenic products designed to prevent blocked pores. Blotting papers are also a handy tool for managing excess oil throughout the day. Simply press a sheet onto oily areas like the nose, forehead, and chin to absorb the excess without over-stripping the skin, which could lead to even more oil production.

Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliation is another key step in summer skincare. By exfoliating two to three times a week, you can remove dead skin cells and allow new, healthy cells to surface. This process reduces the risk of clogged pores, smooths the skin’s texture, and helps even out discolouration, providing a fresh base for makeup application.

However, it’s important to choose a gentle exfoliator to avoid irritation. Harsh ingredients such as perfumes, phthalates, and sodium lauryl sulphate should be avoided. Instead, find a product that suits your skin type and offers a mild exfoliating action.

Lighten Up Your Makeup Routine

Under the intense summer sun, heavy makeup can feel uncomfortable and may not hold up well. Fresha’s experts advise switching to a lighter, more breathable base, such as a BB cream or lightweight foundation, to layer over suncream. Embrace the natural summer glow by opting for illuminating powders and tinted lip balms instead of matte products. A refreshing setting spray can help keep makeup in place throughout the day.

Avoid Overloading Your Skin

Finally, while it might be tempting to overhaul your skincare routine in response to the changing weather, experts caution against introducing too many new products at once. Overloading your skin can lead to irritation and exacerbate existing issues. Instead, gradually incorporate new products and monitor your skin’s response carefully.

A spokesperson from Fresha summarised the importance of these steps: “Summer can bring challenges to your skin, so adapting your skincare routine to this warmer season and expected heatwave is vital. This guide emphasises the importance of hydration, UV protection, and gentle exfoliation to protect and nourish your skin’s barrier.”

By following these expert tips, you can help ensure that your skin remains healthy, hydrated, and protected throughout the summer.

For more information, visit https://www.fresha.com.

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Rising Interest in Weight Loss Medications

Interest in weight loss medications has surged globally in recent years. In the United States, nearly half (45%) of adults have shown interest in prescription weight-loss drugs, according to research by KFF. This trend has been mirrored in the UK, partly driven by the popularity of the drug Ozempic, which has gained traction through endorsements from celebrities and social media influencers.

Investigative Study by Simple Online Pharmacy

Simple Online Pharmacy conducted an investigation to pinpoint which UK areas show the most interest in newly available weight loss medications. Using Google Keyword Planner, the study analysed the average number of monthly searches for terms related to weight loss medications. These included general searches like ‘best weight loss medication’ and specific drug names such as Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda.

The total number of searches was then compared to the local population sizes in various towns and cities across the UK to determine where interest in weight loss medications is highest.

Top Findings

Bolton emerged as the area with the highest interest, recording 2,159 monthly searches per 100,000 people for weight loss drugs and related terms, amounting to an overall monthly search volume of 3,051.

Croydon ranked second with 1,706 monthly searches per 100,000 people, totalling an average of 2,958 searches per month.

In third place, Doncaster had 1,620 searches per 100,000 people, with a monthly average of 1,840 searches.

Wakefield followed in fourth place, with an average of 1,581 monthly searches per 100,000 people and an overall monthly average of 1,736 searches.

Rounding out the top five was Manchester, recording 1,482 monthly searches per 100,000 people, corresponding to 5,863 total monthly searches related to weight loss medication.

Other towns and cities making the top ten list include Lincoln (1,473 searches per 100,000 people), Stockport (1,422), Salford (1,260), Huddersfield (1,231), and Peterborough (1,217).

Least Interested Areas

On the other end of the spectrum, Oxford was identified as the area least interested in weight loss medication, with only 270 monthly searches per 100,000 people and a total of 438 searches per month.

Derby ranked second to last with 278 monthly searches per 100,000 people and an overall average of 752 searches per month.

Cardiff followed, recording 290 monthly searches per 100,000 people, equating to an average of 1,295 monthly searches.

Nottingham and Kingston upon Hull were also among the areas with the least interest, averaging 327 and 381 monthly searches per 100,000 people respectively. Nottingham had an overall monthly average of 1,058 searches, while Kingston upon Hull had 1,197.

Other areas with low interest levels included Stoke-on-Trent (418 searches per 100,000 people), Reading (426), Southend-on-Sea (438), Northampton (452), and Southampton (477).

Top 10 areas most interested in weight loss medications 

Expert Commentary

Commenting on the findings, Addy Mohammed, CEO of Simple Online Pharmacy, said, “The recent increase in weight loss searches has undoubtedly led to a significant rise in interest for weight loss medications over the past year. People are keen to see if they are eligible for weight loss medications available on the NHS.”

The study highlights the growing trend of individuals seeking pharmaceutical solutions for weight management, reflecting broader societal shifts towards addressing obesity and related health issues. With weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda gaining popularity, the data underscores the importance of understanding regional interest and the potential impact on public health services.

For more information, visit https://www.simpleonlinepharmacy.co.uk/.

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Disney Leads the Pack

According to the study, Disney is the most talked about company when it comes to stocks, boasting the highest number of videos and hashtags dedicated to its financial performance. The hashtags #disneystock, #disneystocks, and #disneyshares have collectively garnered 80 million views from 6,151 videos. This substantial engagement reflects widespread public interest in Disney’s market movements and investment potential.

The company’s share price, currently around $85, has seen significant fluctuations, having dropped from an all-time high above $200 in March 2021. This peak occurred following the announcement that California’s theme parks could reopen as COVID-19 restrictions were eased. Despite the decline, Disney remains a focal point for investors on social media.

Netflix and Amazon Follow Closely

Netflix ranks as the second most popular stock, with more than 13 million views on TikTok and Instagram. The global streaming giant has been featured in 1,384 videos, accompanied by 4,635 hashtags such as #netflixstock, #netflixstocks, and #netflixshares. Netflix recently ended its mail-order DVD service and reported an addition of 5.9 million new subscribers in the second quarter of 2023. Its stock price stands around $380, down from its peak of $690 in November 2021.

Amazon secures the third spot, with its stocks and shares attracting over 5.9 million video views, 17,278 hashtags, and 725 videos. The e-commerce titan reported net sales of $134.4 billion for the second quarter of 2023, and its share price has risen steadily, currently at about $128. Amazon’s market capitalisation of $1.32 trillion is the highest among the top five companies in the study.

Tesla and Walmart Complete the Top Five

Tesla is the fourth most discussed stock on social media, with 739 videos receiving more than two million views and 1,898 related hashtags. The electric vehicle manufacturer’s share price is approximately $260, with a market capitalisation of $813 billion.

Walmart rounds out the top five, attracting over 4.7 million views and 2,570 hashtags. The retail giant’s financial performance continues to be a topic of considerable interest among social media users.

Other Notable Mentions

The remainder of the top ten includes Costco in sixth place, followed by Microsoft, 3M, Nike, and Starbucks. These companies, like those at the top, benefit from strong brand recognition, which appears to translate into significant engagement on social media platforms.

Expert Commentary

A spokesperson for City Index commented on the findings, stating: “This data paints a fascinating picture of which companies’ financial performance attracts the most interest, excitement, and discussion on social media. The companies at the top of the list are some of the biggest brands in the world, highlighting how the general public are most comfortable approaching the complex world of the stock market through businesses and brands with which they are most familiar.”

The spokesperson added, “The strong appetite for advice and guidance on trading is demonstrated by the fact that videos on the top ten companies in the list have more than 117 million views in total. As trading continues to become more accessible to people who aren’t working in the finance industry and following the rise of so-called ‘meme stocks’ over the past two years, it will be interesting to see how the discussion of the best trading and investment opportunities continues to develop on social media.”

Conclusion

The City Index study underscores the growing influence of social media on investment trends. As platforms like TikTok and Instagram become more integral to financial discourse, they provide valuable insights into public sentiment and the popularity of certain stocks. Disney, Netflix, and Amazon lead the way, with significant engagement indicating a strong interest in their financial journeys. This trend is likely to continue, shaping the future of investment strategies and market analysis.

The top ten most popular stocks on social media 

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While extensive research on the mental health benefits of houseplants is still underway, numerous studies highlight the positive effects of green spaces and gardening on mental health. For instance, individuals who engage in daily gardening exhibit better well-being and lower stress levels compared to non-gardeners. These findings pave the way for understanding the potential emotional benefits derived from caring for indoor plants.

A comprehensive review of 42 studies underscores the positive impact of indoor plants on both mental and physical health. Experimenting with activities in rooms with or without plants revealed improved cognitive task performance, increased pain tolerance, and reduced physiological stress when surrounded by indoor greenery. Additionally, aesthetic preferences play a role, with lush, green plants with rounded and dense foliage eliciting more positive reactions from individuals.

Beyond the psychological advantages, houseplants offer tangible benefits for physical health. They act as natural purifiers, removing pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, fine particles, and volatile organic compounds from the air. Given that many people spend the majority of their day indoors, maintaining optimal indoor air quality becomes crucial.

However, achieving significant pollutant removal would necessitate a considerable number of plants in a well-lit room, a challenge for most individuals. For those willing to give it a shot, plants with a high leaf area, such as the India rubber tree (Ficus elastic) or devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum), are recommended.

Indoor plants may also contribute to increasing air humidity, addressing the prevalent issue of dry indoor environments. Maintaining optimal humidity levels can prevent the spread of viruses, fungal growth, and alleviate discomforts like dry eyes and skin. English ivy (Hedera helix), Devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum), and Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) are among the best choices for enhancing humidity levels, depending on room conditions.

Contrary to common belief, one need not possess a green thumb to enjoy the benefits of houseplants. Gardening is a continuous learning process, with even seasoned enthusiasts encountering challenges and setbacks. Embracing trial and error, learning from mistakes, and adapting to different plant requirements are fundamental aspects of cultivating indoor greenery.

For beginners, selecting plants suited to the specific conditions of their homes is essential. Some resilient options include the spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum), parlour palm (Chamaedorea elegans), and varieties from the cactus and succulent families, such as the zebra cactus (Haworthia) or jade plant (Crassula ovata). Growing herbs is also an inexpensive and practical starting point, offering an additional culinary benefit.

Technology aids this botanical journey, with apps available to assist in plant care. These apps offer advice, reminders, and forums for plant enthusiasts to seek guidance and share experiences. In essence, cultivating houseplants transcends mere decoration; it evolves into a hobby that fosters continuous learning, self-expression, and a tangible sense of accomplishment.

In conclusion, the growing trend of incorporating houseplants into indoor spaces goes beyond aesthetics. The mental health benefits, coupled with the physical advantages, position indoor greenery as an accessible and enriching addition to homes, particularly for those without access to outdoor green spaces. Embracing the world of houseplants becomes not only a visual delight but a journey towards improved well-being and a greener, healthier living environment.

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The Horizon IT system, implemented by the Post Office in 2000, faced scrutiny as it falsely accused hundreds of sub-postmasters of fraudulent activities, leading to wrongful convictions. Despite the identification of significant accounting flaws in the software as early as 2010, the Post Office persisted in prosecuting individuals until 2015.

The controversy surrounding the scandal resurfaced during the holiday season, with an ITV drama titled ‘Mr Bates vs the Post Office’ thrusting the issue back into the spotlight. A judge-led inquiry is currently underway, delving into the far-reaching consequences of the Horizon IT debacle.

Vennells, who served as the Post Office’s chief executive from 2012 to 2019, broke her silence in a statement, acknowledging the immense toll the scandal took on the lives of sub-postmasters and their families. She stated, “I express sincere regret for the devastation caused to the sub-postmasters and their families, whose lives were torn apart by being wrongly accused and prosecuted due to the Horizon system.”

Despite maintaining her silence earlier due to the ongoing inquiry, Vennells conveyed that she had heard the calls from sub-postmasters and others demanding the return of her CBE. In an effort to demonstrate accountability, she declared the immediate return of the honour and pledged to focus on assisting the inquiry until its conclusion.

The move follows Chancellor Rishi Sunak expressing robust support for initiatives seeking to revoke Vennells’ CBE. The widespread public condemnation, evidenced by the substantial petition, underscores the gravity of the situation and the demand for accountability in the aftermath of the Horizon IT scandal.

Simultaneously, pressure is mounting on Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, a former Post Office minister, who faces accusations of neglecting to address the unfolding scandal during his tenure. Davey, in his defense, asserts that he was misled by Post Office executives at the time and took action based on the information available to him.

Justice Secretary Alex Chalk has entered the discourse, revealing that he is actively considering the introduction of a bill to overturn the convictions of sub-postmasters ensnared in the scandal. The potential legal intervention aims to rectify the miscarriage of justice suffered by these individuals who were wrongly accused and prosecuted based on the flawed Horizon system.

The Horizon IT scandal has sent shockwaves through the Post Office and the broader community, prompting a reexamination of accountability within the organization and the need for systemic reforms to prevent such injustices in the future. As the judge-led inquiry progresses, the return of Paula Vennells’ CBE serves as a symbolic gesture, but the pursuit of justice for the affected sub-postmasters remains at the forefront of public consciousness.

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