Do something now before it’s too late – Global Fashion Exchange


Influential figures in the world of fashion are joining forces with the Global Fashion Exchange (GFX) in a bid to overhaul the shopping habits of the nation and change their wardrobes through sustainable fashion. Founded in 2O13, GFX makes an impact through innovative clothing swap events, curated talks and cultural activations around the world. UK citizens, alone, throw away over 300,000 tonnes of textiles every year and, on average, wear each piece of clothing for only seven days and only 16% of clothes are being reused, with the other 84% being either burnt, dumped in landfills or sent to other countries to only reuse buttons and zips.

GFX founder Patrick Duffy is highlighting the environmental damage fashion is having through a series of ground-breaking pop up talks and sustainable fashion swaps across the country, to highlight the environmental damage fashion is having on our environment. Over the years, GFX has helped save 22 tons of clothes (over 40,000 pounds) from going to landfills through events held on three continents, in four global cities.

According to the not-for-profit global movement, Fashion Revolution, 25% of the carbon footprint of clothes come from the way we care for them; for example, one million tonnes of synthetic fibres discharge into waste water every year – the equivalent of approximately 53,000 plastic bottles coming off our clothes in the wash. Fashion Revolution has teams in over 100 countries around the world. The organisations campaigns for systemic reform of the fashion industry with a focus on the need for greater transparency in the fashion supply chain.

As such, if everyone wore their clothes more, we could reduce carbon, water and waste footprints by up to 30%. To put things into perspective – most people wear their clothing for an average of seven days, when the average should be three years.

The next swap will be taking place on Sunday 23 September and will be available for all to experience.

A little less Stress to your travels – ARKET’s travel range

There was a time when travel use to always be associated with Romance, mystery and luxury. Now thanks to the likes of Budget Airlines and profits coming above customer experience, yes you may experience mystery, but it’ll more than likely be, you questioning, “Where the hell am I?” After a horrendously delayed flight which has been diverted to some Godforsaken airport in the middle of nowhere. Plus, you may very well have paid pennies for your flight, but add on Tax, luggage fares, the cost of not printing your boarding pass, priority board (which the entire flight seem to have also bought) and your budget airline deal isn’t looking so budget after all.

So, as our thoughts start to slip to a sun kissed beach and of cocktails being sipped while watching a spectacular sunset, you need to think and be smart, don’t get caught out by these sneaky, hidden charges. Swedish retailer ARKET, have your best interests in mind. As part of its travel range of functional packing systems dedicated to people on the move. The luggage bags come in two styles – the 48-Hour Tote and the 72-Hour Duffle – sized to perfectly fit essential items required for a two- or three-day trip. Both bags are made from durable and water-repellent nylon and trimmed with
tonal straps, embroidered with a unique ARKET ID number. The 72-Hour Duffle is a multi-purpose bag and can be worn in three ways – on the back, with a shoulder strap, or carried by hand.

This series in question includes CORDURA nylon luggage, ultralight packable bags and a set of minimal travel accessories that fit compactly inside and are specifically designed to optimise the standard carry-on dimensions. Plus the range is available in five netrual colourways – black, olive, navy, burgundy, and beige – with prices ranging from £10 – £130. So don’t worry if you want to do a little more shopping in your final destination, you aren’t going to be stung, as you’re sorted with carry on luggage.

The history of the World Cup: as told by 10 hellish haircuts

The 2018 World Cup has arrived, and 3.4 billion people around each globe are currently glued to their screens, cheering on their country… and judging some of the horrendous hairstyles in motion. We’re not trying to be cruel but, historically, football players have been guilty of sporting some truly hellish hairstyles while playing the great game. From dye jobs to rat-tails, mohawks to mullets; experts in the field of ensure you look at your best in the hair care stakes are, Murdock London who have take a look at some of the World Cup footballers that will be remembered more for their tragic haircuts than their fancy footwork.

Chris Waddle, England, 1990

The first crime against style is our very own Chris Waddle, sporting a mullet that would make Billy Ray Cyrus jealous back in 1990! Though Waddle experimented with many styles over the years, it’s his trademark mullet which will forever be remembered in the footballers’ haircut hall of shame.

Rudi Voller, Germany, 1990

Rudi Voller’s permed mullet gave him the nickname “Tante Kathe” in his native Germany, which loosely translates to “Aunt Kathy” in English. If that wasn’t bad enough, the centre-forward’s hair also made headlines after a memorable falling out with Frank Rijkaard in a match at the 1990 World Cup. After an argument over a foul and subsequent free kick, Rijkaard famously spat in Voller’s luscious locks… and did so again as the pair were leaving the pitch after being sent off. Some sources also say that Voller’s mullet took a third phlegm-ing on the touchline afterwards.

Ronaldo, Brazil, 2002

Before the World Cup in 2002, Ronaldo asked his barber for a short back and sides… and middle, top and, well, everywhere except that iconic fringe at the front. The legendary striker later said that he was trying to divert press attention away from his groin injury… though, it may have worked a little too well as his hairdo is often better-remembered than the eight goals he scored for his country!

Lionel Messi, Argentina, 2006

Whilst Messi might be considered to be the ultimate heartthrob by both women and men across the world in 2018, 2006 was a different story altogether. For his debut World Cup, the youngster sported a crop that was reminiscent of something that your mother might style using a bowl and pair of scissors. Luckily the Argentinian sensation quickly got the chop and is now considered one of the most stylish players in the world!

Taribo West, Nigeria, 1998

The Nigerian defender’s neon green dreadlocks that matched his kit really does encapsulate everything that we remember about the 90’s. Though this look was a definite style-faux-pas, you really have to admire his dedication to stand-out hairstyles throughout his World Cup career – even despite his impending baldness!

Jose Perlaza, Ecuador, 2006

At Germany’s 2006 World Cup, José Luis Perlaza sported a hairstyle which had even the most experienced barbers scratching their heads. Was it a mullet, or would you describe it as “short front and sides”? Either way, the burnt curl fringe, cropped top and long locks at back certainly got people talking.

Roberto Baggio, Italy, 1990

Roberto Baggio’s iconic rat-tail-inspired style at the 19990 World Cup became so famous that the Italian footballer was given the nickname ‘Il Divin Codino’. This loosely translates into English as ‘the divine ponytail’ – but I’m afraid the jury is still out on that one!

Carlos Valderrama, Colombia, 1994

As well as being regarded by many as Colombia’s greatest player ever, Valderrama is also well-known for his iconic ‘do at the 1994 World Cup. Serving up ‘Sideshow Bob’ inspired style, it’s safe to say that all eyes were on him as soon as he stepped onto the pitch.

Trifon Ivanov, Bulgaria, 1994

Whilst the bearded centre-back helped Bulgaria to the semi-finals of the 1994 World Cup, he’s better remembered by many for his dishevelled look on the pitch. Best known by his nickname ‘The Bulgarian Wolf’, Trifon Ivanov certainly showed the other countries who to be afraid of.

Romania Team, 1998

Be top of the class with a learning holiday experience – Family Travels with a twist

Why not go for a gold star on the back to school holiday report by putting a completely different spin on family’s valuable holiday time and immerse the kids in cultural, adventurous and exciting experiences.  Families can try something different and go on a road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, learn more about the culture of the Bedouin people in Dubai, learn to scuba dive at world-famous locations off the coast of Phuket, get back to nature and embark on a ranching holiday in the Tucson Mountains or discover everything from tropical wildlife to space exploration in Orlando. Why not head to one of these fantastic destinations this summer

Learn about The Wild Atlantic Way on an exciting road trip

The journey of a lifetime awaits along mesmerising landscape, sea-salted shorelines and 2,500km of unforgettable experiences ahead of you when you take on the Wild Atlantic Way in all its wonder.

This coastal road brimming with enigmatic character, unmistakable atmosphere, unforgettable encounters, myth and legend at ever turning, commentating in life lasting memories, the Wild Atlantic Way showcase sensational scenery stretching across nine counties no takes in anything Andy everything from mythical ancient history to kayaking and world renounded surfing.

Learn about the culture of Dubai

Dubai is an amazing location for a family holiday as it is brimming with attractions and theme parks. For an enlightening and entertaining experience, kids and adults can immerse themselves in the nomadic desert culture. The Bedouin people were the earliest inhabitants of the region and with a Platinum Heritage Desert adventure you can dive into their culture and experience it first-hand. Families can cruise along sand dunes in a vintage Land Rover to learn about the desert’s history, as well as seeing native desert animals including gazelles and Arabian Oryx for a sand dune safari experience. Families also have the option of staying the night in the desert and can enjoy a stargazing learning session with a professional astronomer. Why not watch a falconry demonstration or even get involved by learning to fly the falcon as well? After returning from the desert, head to the Dubai Museum for more insight into the incredible Bedouin culture.

Learn to scuba dive in Phuket

For families looking to keep active and learn a skill on holiday, Phuket in Thailand is the perfect choice and home to great year-round dive sites suitable for all ages. Phuket is also the departure point for the Similan Islands, one of the most famous diving destinations in the world.  Marine life here is truly incredible and the underwater scenery ranges from the gentle sloping reefs in the east to the dramatic and wild boulder sites towards the west of the islands. Rare Whale Sharks and Manta Rays are common visitors, making these sites unmissable for keen scuba diving families.

Learn to horse ride in the USA

What better way to spend a family holiday than getting back to nature and ranching with cowboys against the stunning backdrop of the Tucson Mountains in Arizona? There are a variety of ranches available in the area and as well as offering amazing horse rides and cattle drives, ranches usually offer extras such as rock climbing, astronomy shows and hiking. Most also have dedicated kids’ clubs, perfect for giving parents a little time together to explore the rugged terrain and breath-taking natural beauty of the area.

Learn about wildlife and space exploration in Orlando

Orlando is already known as a hot-spot for family holidays. For those looking to go beyond the theme-parks, why not head to the Kennedy Space Centre? This unique site is split into “mission zones” [NR1] where families can get up close and personal with the story of humans in space. The Kennedy Space Centre is home to many attractions and tours for various ages and interests. Be sure to check out their website for their launch countdown so you can coincide your visit with a rocket launch.  After the excitement of space exploration, head to the beautiful Everglades to enjoy family-friendly tours where you can explore the wildlife of the area on your very own airboat adventure.  Kids will love this holiday and it will definitely be one to remember.

Open Wide and be left agog at Ordo

Something we are all guilty of is allowing our toothbrush to get a bit weathered and over used. In fact 70% of us fail to replace our heads every 2 months as recommended by dentists! Well Ordo want to revolutionize the dental hygiene market with their slick online subscription service and streamlined electric toothbrush Ordo pack, which fits precisely and conveniently through your letterbox.

Headed up by Jordan Kennedy and Bartholomew Walsh, the Founders and Creators of Ordo share an unrivalled obsession for impeccable design and service with backgrounds respectively in Marketing, Ecommerce and Architecture. Ordo is the UK’s first oral health subscription service of it’s kind, combining sonic pulse technology, style and functionality.

Designed with your busy lifestyle in mind Ordo was created to eliminate the inconvenience and expense of buying oral care products and to make life easier.
Ordo have created a simple and stylish solution with an contemporary crafted and designed sonic pulse electric toothbrush with replacement heads, toothpaste and batteries delivered to your door every two months. The Ordo toothbrush has been designed for a modern mindset; a seamless ergonomic, slim and lightweight design, travel friendly and stylishly finished with an aluminium anodised handle for complete comfort. Problem solving at its finest, simple! No more chunky brushes, bulky chargers and weathered brush heads. As something we all do for two minutes, twice a day, every day, it can finally be enjoyable and cool, and actually improve our teeth, make them whiter and cleaner, minimising those trips to the dreaded dentist!

The Ordo brush has a two-minute timer with 30 second pulses to change quadrant (one of the four areas of our mouths). It doesn’t need to be charged as it’s powered by a AAA battery which are sent to you every 2 months along with your new head, travel cap, 2-month supply of toothpaste and travel toothpaste, all for £10, including delivery. The plan is totally flexible, and you can cancel anytime. So no more shopping around, bulk buying brush heads or forgetting to buy your oral care products and being battery-operated means there are no messy cables or charging ports. It’s 100% transportable if you’re on the go… at the gym, work or travelling remotely.

Convenience and sustainability are central to the brand, with Ordo you never have to think about changing your toothbrush head again – new heads will be delivered straight to your door every two months as part of their subscription plan alongside new batteries, so you are never without charge. Plus, Ordo have been awarded accreditation from the Oral Health Foundation as their specially formulated toothpaste is Whitening and Sensitive all-in-one, removes stains and reduces sensitivity and if that wasn’t enough is Cruelty free and vegan friendly.