A Day In White - My Book Launch Day

在連日大雨的一周中，在剛過去的星期天，竟然有微微的陽光。我在鬧市中素淨的小空間a nice place to，舉行了《素系風格》新書發佈會。
說是發佈會，其實更重要的是，想和身邊重要的人分享快樂。看到大家手上都拿著書，坐在素樸、寧靜的空間中閱讀，有一種療癒的感覺。

In the last Sunday, the only sunny day in a rainy week, and probably the most important day of the year (to me...!) — the launch event of my first book 《LifeStyle In White》.

More than a formal launch, I will call it a “sharing” — share my book to all of you, and I wanted to share the happiness with everyone. Seeing all the people reading my book in the room, talking and sharing it with other friends, with sunlight penetrating the window... That scene is really beautiful.

中間的一節分享會，由我和哥哥主持。除了分享書中內容，也分享了我的親身經歷——三年來的素系生活。喜歡煮食的你，也許有點不解，因為《素系風格》並不是一本食譜工具書；而是一本真實，關於轉變和經歷、關於簡約生活練習的書。

And in the sharing section, not only I shared what 《LifeStyle In White》is about; but also shared my 3-years experience of being a vegetarian(and later, a vegan), and how it influenced other aspects in life.《LifeStyle In White》is not a recipe book, rather than that it is a story, a story of mine, an ordinary girl who choose to live a simple life.

“「食素，會影響人生喺唔同層面嘅決定。」”

以下是分享會的文字記錄（自木木文創 muk muk originals）：

有人覺得，IG紅人總都把生活裝得很完美，而我們家Charlotte在前日舉行的發佈會，就形容她的首本作品《素系風格》百份百是親身經歷。

所以，這是一本真實，關於轉變和經歷的書。

「從另一角度看，放棄肉食其實令你有更多選擇。」
「就好似買衫，要揀到你真係適合自己嘅嘢，你先有一個真正內心會富足嘅人生。」

崇尚素系生活，作為時尚博客的Charlotte也坦言自已愛美，所以更要親身嘗試才把自己真正喜愛的東西跟讀者分享。

「真係要識得揀咩嘢同自己嘅風格、信念係適合，唔係所有嘢都係啱嘅。」
「搵到自己嘅Style係真係好重要。」

要找到真正適合自己的身外物，考慮每件物件的代價，Charlotte認為認真思考消費才是保持簡單生活的第一步。同樣地，茹素也是在食物上作出這種選擇，深思熟慮吃甚麼進去，就不用負擔錯吃食物對身體造成的影響。

「民以食為天，你每日需要做嘅選擇，好多時都同食有關。」
「食素，會影響人生喺唔同層面嘅決定。」

作為攝影師，Charlotte希望將素食做成一個風格和潮流，用她的照片和設計去吸引更多人嘗試素食。

那天看到很多笑臉。 每一位到場支持的朋友們，我的恩師、認識了十幾年的好朋友、網上有緣份認識的「網友」、工作上認識的夥伴、幾個星期前才第一次見面的新朋友、咖啡店認識的咖啡師和朋友、未曾謀面的新朋友…… 就連中學時坐過我身旁（認識了16年、卻5年以上沒見面）的老同學也驚喜現身。

還有，看完書後跟我分享的一字一句，叫人感動。

Smiling faces were all around... My life-teacher, the friends which I’ve know for more than years, the friends which I met through social media, my working partners, the new friends, and the friends I’ve met in a cafe came to share the happiness with me. For that I will always be grateful that I’ve met so many beautiful souls in my life.

謝謝每一位，期待下次再見面。希望這本書能帶給你一點啟發、一點美好的感覺、一些正面的能量。

Thank you everyone for coming. And I wish this book could bring you some inspirations and positive energy.

#素系風格CharlotteInWhite

(請每一位使用這個HashTag，讓我好好認識我的讀者們吧!)
Please use this Hashtag for letting me know all of you through social media platforms!

當然，我也很想知道到場/未可以到場的你的意見，在這個Blog Post留言告訴我吧！
And of course, I would love to see your comments! (Comments below!)

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《素系風格 —— 素食與簡約生活練習》

 

林偉欣 Charlotte In White著 / 天窗出版

| 香港：於各大書店陸續上架有售〔誠品 | 三聯 | 商務 | 中華 | 二樓書店〕

| 澳門及台灣：快將上架 (即將公佈)

| 海外：天窗出版社官網訂購：bit.ly/2y2Et3Y

| GooglePlay：bit.ly/2JEH5L3 (含電子版試閱)

Venue: a nice place to.

Love,

Charlotte

LifeStyle In White 素系風格

簡約生活，由素食開始

Hello, This is Charlotte, Charlotte in White!

Hi！我叫Charlotte，九十後，是個攝影師／錄像導演／平面設計師／時尚博客／網上時裝店店主／半個服裝設計師／半個模特兒和半個舞蹈員⋯⋯是個Slash斜槓青年吧！基本上，所有關於視覺創意的事我也接觸。

（推出這本書之後，我也成為賣文人了。）

我天生就喜歡看所有美麗的事物——包括人、景色、服裝⋯⋯但我並不是從小就學習藝術的。小學的畫畫課也沒有特別高分，偶爾被貼堂的作品，多數也是因為有哥哥（出貓）幫忙。不過，我爸爸是半個攝影迷，家中有專業的菲林相機，從小我就喜歡去搶他的相機亂拍，是真的亂拍一通！而那些相薄中「鬆、郁、朦」的照片，就是我的童年大作。那時，我也不擔心拍得好不好，反正爸爸從來不介意我燒菲林。看來，這也算是我創作之路的起點。

長大後，我才開始接觸不同的藝術作品，也開始跳舞，慢慢發覺自己還是喜歡簡單、直接的東西。無論是照片、錄像、設計、穿衣，愈簡約，我所感覺到的力量更大——簡單化，在我所觸及的地方，追求著每一個位置和細節也有其意思和意義的。

三年前，因為一次到台南參加斷食營的經歷，讓我做了一個決定：要從生活中最基本的「食」開始，把其「簡約化」。從此，我的斜槓又多了一劃，決意成為「素食者」，裡裡外外去實行我的簡約生活。

但始終，「民以食為天」嘛，在一個傳統華人家庭長大，從小由煮飯習慣「多油、多鹽、多肉」的嫲嫲帶大，要徹底地改變飲食習慣，並非易事，也絕非我個人的事。其中不少經驗，有好笑的、奇怪的、意想不到的、掙扎的、不愉快的：和自己的對戰問：「為何要吃素？」、「為甚麼簡單的吃頓飯也好像要麻煩身邊人遷就？」；還有和身邊的人的互動，餐廳老闆一知半解的說：「不吃肉？我們海鮮也好吃！」甚至媽媽無奈的訴說：「甚麼也不吃，也不知道要給你煮些甚麼！」

也許，從我的文字，能道出不少素食朋友的心底話，讓大家知道難免崎嶇的素食之路上有這麼一個素未謀面的知心人。更能讓未曾試過吃素的朋友多明白一點吃素到底是甚麼一回事，然後能和吃素的家人朋友相處得更好，甚至偶爾一起享受素食的滋味。

這三年，素食除了讓我發現食物可以如此多樣性，也讓我因此接觸到更多的人、更多我未曾想像過的事。沒有負擔的蔬食，不止於可以為身體帶來好的能量，感覺輕盈和舒適了，也影響了我的生活態度，甚至對生命的看法。在二十七歲的這一年，我寫下自己從決定素食開始，那些初心和經歷、成功與困難、身體及心靈上的點點過程——記錄我如何由選擇「食物」開始，過一個自己選擇的人生，一步步成為「更好的我」。即使感覺未足以超越世界的慣性，我卻可以選擇改變自己，從每天都要吃的食物開始。

對我來說，「素」不只是吃，它能賞、能活。素食的日子、簡約的生活、直接的情感——是啟發，是美麗的開始，是愛。

這篇文章收錄於《素系風格——素食與簡約生活練習》一書中，CHARLOTTE與天窗出版社合作出版的書藉；
於2018年夏天六月陸續上架，於香港及台灣各大書局有售。

按此看更多資料：《素系風格——素食與簡約生活練習》

LOVE,

CHARLOTTE

My Skincare Routine

(English Version Down Below)

最近，發現不少朋友也對我的日常肌膚保養程序感到興趣。我的膚質屬有點難攪的敏感、混合又乾性，而且我也怕覆雜的程序，所以我會選擇簡化。一些成分較天然的保養品就很合我心意了。文章中分享了幾個我覺得Must-Do的Skincare Steps，和最近試用過也很喜歡的產品。

不過，吃的東西也非常重要！

假如身體沒有吸收到好的營養，那麼做多少保養也幫不上忙。（就好像每天上健身房但卻亂吃垃圾食物一樣）如果想知道我一直在吃些什麼去保養，可以留意我六月即將推出的新書《素系風格 — 素食與簡約生活練習》。

Someone asked for a skincare routine tutorial on Youtube after my "Eating Food with Foodies on Friday" video is out on Youtube.

Taylor is a super cute and kind girl who make a lot of lifestyle videos for her viewers. In this Vegan Episode, we went to some of our favourite Vegan/Vegetarian places in Hong Kong! So here is the video:

After the video is published, I got few requests on how I do my everyday skincare. I did share once in Instagram Stories (@charlotteinwhite) but never have written about it. So I think it is time for me to reveal my "secrets"!

First of all, Eating matters.

Having a fruit smoothie in a market in Sydney.

Believe it or not, if you do not maintain a good diet, no matter how much time and money you spent on skincare, it just doesn't work! (As it is if you go to gym every day but you do not have a good diet, you will not be getting the result either.)

For more of the details of how eating could change your skin, I have shared in my book - LifeStyleInWhite《素系風格 — 素食與簡約生活練習》. For the below, I will share few of my everyday skincare steps with some of my recent pick of items.

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1. Clean Your Face

My skin type is a combination to dry & sensitive skin - 90% of the face is quite dry, but the nose usually gets oily and have blackheads problem. The blackheads problem has affected me since high school, and I have tried all the possible way to get rid of it, no matter it is scrubbing, squeezing or even removal pads... None of them really works and could sustain. But now I have found a balance, and here are some key products I would use to get the clean and clear skin.

Bioderma Solution Micellaire H20 Sensibio (Cleansing Water)

If I have applied sunscreen, concealer or brush colour that day, I will clean my face once I get back home with cleansing water on pads. Alcoholic remover really irritates my skin, so I tried to avoid all of them. Cleansing water is a light and gentle solution for getting your face clean, and I have been using Bioderma for 4 years. (I have also purchased Laroche-Posay cleansing water for sensitive skin, but not yet tried.)

Omorovicza Moor Cream Cleanser

As I have mentioned, over 85% of my skin is quite dry, so a cream cleanser really works for me. It is a calcium and magnesium-rich mud with essential oil, and it cleans and detoxes the face at the same time it keeps the hydration. Perfect for sensitive and dry skin. I prefer using it in Autumn and Winter.

John Masters Organics Rose Foaming Face Wash

For humid spring and hot summer days, I love to use a cleanser which feels lighter. This face wash formula is very mild, perfect for soothing the skin. What I love the most about is the fresh aroma of rose oil, every time I applied it on I instantly feel refreshed. 

 

2. Moisturize

Cannot stress enough how moisturizing your face matter, but it is just so important! And from time to time, my favourite differs - and here are some products I love recently.

John Masters Organics rose & aloe hydrating toning mist

A good toner to spray on face is so important. To nourishes, hydrates, and protects the skin. This organic and gluten free mist have 6 natural ingredients - and I love rose flower oil to soothes my sensitive skin. Besides applying it on face after cleansing, I also love to spray it through out the day, it is just great for lifting my spirits by the refreshing touch and scent!

Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Hydra-Essentiel Intensive Serum

I just cannot express how much I love about it recently. Developed from the moisture-packed organic Leaf of Life extract, it's a natural hydrating serum which brings a radiant to the skin instantly. The lightness texture is perfect for hot summer days. I use it day and night

Caudalie VINE[ACTIV] Overnight Detox Oil

This is simply a treasure. I found it when I was shopping in a pharmacy in Paris, and I instantly fall in love with it. Made with 100% natural ingredient of vine oil, this detox oil helps to 1)Detox your skin (a natural GLOWING skin in the morning!); 2)Moisturize. Also, I read a lot of online reviews of this oil, and over 85% of them are positive from all over the world!

Lamer The Moisturizing Soft Lotion

In drier autumn and winter days, I need something which could keep more moisture. What I love about Lamer, is that their creme is super soft and moisturizing. Also they don't have a strong smell which I like a lot. 

 

3. Put on MASK & Exfoliate

Some of the skin care routine I will keep it as weekly basis. And they are such an important element in the skincare routine.

Skin Inc Oxy-Recharge Bubble Mask

What I love about this mask - it gently peels the dead skin cell - bringing the surface oil, dirt and pollutants away. And the process is so fun! First of all, I apply a think layer of gel on my cleaned face; after 2-3 minutes, it changes to thousands of bubbles (and you can actually feel it is really working!); after 3-5 minutes, when I massage the bubbles away, there is some dead skin crumbles instantly. But be noticed that do not over do it, just once a week will be good.

POWERCELL ANTI-POLLUTION MASK

As it's name, it is an anti-pollution mask which not only exfoliating the dull skin cell away, but at the same time it stimulates revitalisation and moisturize the skin, best for drier months. There are so much pollutions in the city - a good cleansing mask is always my "to-go" item, I even bring it to travel!

Kielh's Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Masque

This lightweight gel mask, combined by calendula flower petals and aloe vera, instantly hydrated the face when applying it on the morning. I love putting it into the fridge, and apply it before putting make up on.  Just 5 minutes, the skin will have a healthy appearance after the cooling and soothing process. I have been using it for 2-3 times a week for a year already!

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"Effortless" is not only a term applied to fashion styling, but also to skincare. To look effortless doesn't mean I didn't do anything, but I tried to keep my skincare routine as simple and natural, together with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

How about you? Tell me which step you think is the most important in the comment below!

Love,

Charlotte

A Romantic Night For The Bride

A ROMANTIC NIGHT JUST FOR GIRLS

Preparing a nice & lovely set up - with full of beautiful flowers, balloons, a beautiful dresses, wine and cake... Just to celebrate her BIG DAY! Yes, she is going to get married!
 

「明天晚上去Girl's date night？」「只是去Bar飲酒，不如弄一個迷你派對，一起玩、又可以慶祝、拍照，好不好？」突如其來的一個派對，就在前一天的晚上才興起說要辦。幸好現在手機通訊十分發達，馬上開一個群組，姐妹們互相分工合作，很快的便成功辦了這一次的驚喜婚前派對。
小小的地方充滿著美麗的鮮花，氣球，美美的衣服，酒和蛋糕... 更重要的是，一切是粉紅色的！

We have printed some of the engagement photos I took for this lovely couple earlier. (And hang them on the wall!) And some meaningful gifts for her... 

我們也特地印了一些之前我替這對情人拍的婚照。看上去像是偶像的照片呢～也為她準備了一些暖心的小禮物...

Although having a bridal shower is not a tradition in Hong Kong, but by holding a little party, is a fun and celebratory occasion that allows the bride's close friends to spend time together before the big day. Don't you want to plan one for your good friend who is going to get married, too?

　Bridal Shower是一個有趣又快樂的小派對，讓新娘的親密朋友在大日子之前一起度過美好的時光。一大班好朋友，無論怎樣，也是好玩又溫暖的吧。下次你愛的她快出嫁時，不妨也找個日子一起慶祝一下吧！
 

Arrangement by all these lovely girls
Set & Floral Decoration: Make Your Choicesss Floral Lab
Bride Outfit: mukmuk: wardrobe
Photography: Charlotte in White
Venue: Hotel Stage

LOVE,

CHARLOTTE

3 Tips to Design Your Dream Bedroom

誠實說，自己並不是一名整潔的女生... 由細到大，我也是被媽媽叫我執房執大的。長大後，（也因為工作慢慢培養到），開始注意到舒服的家是可以讓自己完全放鬆的（由其在外出拍攝一整天後)。所以今次想跟大家分享，一年前我搬進新家以後，幾個設計Dream Bedroom的小貼士 - 配搭顏色、小物；及創立自己的風格等等。看看我的靈感來源吧！

I still remember the trip to Setouchi Art Festival in Japan last year. Among all artworks and museums, Teshima Art Museum inspired me the most. The calmness and quietness naturally filled the architecture. I took a sit on the floor, closed my eyes to meditate... the minimal space generates a strong energy - a state of serenity. And of course, that trip inspired how I design my dream bedroom!

"A shade of blue, also I need it to be very comfortable, filled with sunlight and airy."

The crucial elements for my bedroom. Here I want to share 3 tips that I followed in designing my dream bedroom with you, which is perfect if you want to make your room a better space!

1. Create a Tone, a Style

When choosing a colour scheme for my bedroom, simplicity is always key. Your bedroom vibes should reflect a timeless tone that will stand the test of time and create a welcoming aura at the end of your day, every day. To find out your signature tones, take cues from your everyday outfit inspirations –which colour schemes do you usually opt for to make your style game strong?

Similar to putting an outfit together, ensure that you stick to no more than four basic colours, and that your tone blends well with the remaining pieces in your room.

2. Always, Less is More

Use what feels right, and throw away the rest!

I always make sure everything I put in my room is with the finest qualities, and each of them is beautiful on its own. Meanwhile, they are practical and long-lasting, which I can use it for years and will not go out of style. Before purchasing any items, make sure you have to touch it, feel it - to see if you really like it. The thing you picked should bring you a sense of serenity, calmness and peace.

Minimalism, create the perfect space for imagination, therefore it helps my creativity.

Besides, keeping everything clean and tidy, say NO to a cluster of things... I know it is easy for girls to accumulate clothes or bags on the chair (in my case, on the top of my cushions) But please avoid being messy! Your room should be a restful place to give you peace of mind after a long working day. So, regular housework and cleaning are essential!

3. Add a Personal Touch

Convey a personalised touch to your private domain with memorable items that reflect your individuality. Paintings, postcards and polaroid photos are some key items that provide me with a sense of solitude especially in my personal environment. Each with its own memorable story, these additions breathe life and blends a touch of personality into the furniture pieces.

Take it up a notch and brighten up your bedroom with greenery. Not only does it improve air circulation, it creates a relaxing and restful ambience to help you unwind. A personal favourite of mine, this ceramic vase brings a contemporary feel to any bedroom and creates a breath of fresh air with simple inclusions of fresh flowers or any basic, leafy plant – great remedies that help in reducing your stress levels after a long day.

Vases, Cushions from Indigo Living 

We spend the most of our time in the bedroom. Transform your bedroom into the perfect sanctuary space. Start with baby steps by organising your items and clearing the clutter off the floor. Not only does it make your space more comforting, it helps in reforming your housekeeping habits in the long run.

How do you keep your home tidy all year round? Share your thoughts on these bedroom styling tips in the comments below!

LOVES,

CHARLOTTE

A Day with Her

The morning, with sunshine, flowers, and your best friend. The precious, quality time you spent with someone who is inspiring - talking about what is happening in life, about works, relationships, families... or simply just chit-chat. 

I met Samantha 5 years ago in my dance group. We used to dance together, and after we left the group, as freelancer, we worked on several creative project since last year. Since then we have been really good friends. Here, I want to share a simple conversation about ourselves. (3 important questions!) And yes, we are wearing my shop mukmuk: wardrobe collection! (And Samantha's Pink Shirt is on 30% discount!) Find it here.

充滿陽光的早上、美麗的鮮花、約一個想見的朋友... 談生活上發生的事、談工作，談感情，談家庭...... 簡單地聊天、聽聽對方的想法，也許會為你帶來一些新的看法。

Samantha 是我五年前跳舞認識的朋友。離開舞團以後，因為我們的工作性質，同時地也是自由身工作者的我們經常有機會一起合作。這文章中有三個簡單問題（及我們的答案）；除了希望讓你了解我們（SLASH的工作）多一點之外，也希望可以讓你想想屬於你自己的答案。對啊，你們看到我們身上很美的，也是 mukmuk: wardrobe 的衣服，她身上的薄紗恤衫裙更在做30%折扣優惠，在這Link可以找到。

We have been work together for many creative projects, me being photographer and Samantha being the art director.
攝影和美術指導的工作總是離不開大家吧...

To Talk About...

#1 - Who are you?

 

Samantha: 

I am a "SLASH" - Florist at Make Your Choicesss Floral Lab; Leather Maker at Make Your Choicesss, also a Founder of Wedfloks - an online wedding resource sharing platform). I also do art direction and styling freelance works. I am passionate about doing any challenging works.

Slash ：花藝師@Make Your Choicesss Floral Lab ，皮革匠@Make Your Choicesss，婚禮分享平台創辦人及編輯@wedfolks 。有時會做Art direction / Styling的工作。但其實總括而言，我選擇做我喜歡和具挑戰性的工作。

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Charlotte: 

Well, yes. Similar to you, I am a SLASH, too. I am a freelance Creative Director - I initiate photo shoot, direct videos, design graphics for campaigns. I mostly work with different artists and art organizations. At the same time, I am the founder of an online fashion store mukmuk: wardrobe. I am also a Fashion & Lifestyle Blogger.

跟妳一樣，我也是身兼幾個身份。我是自由身創作人 - 主要是擇影、錄像指導、平面設計 ；大多和不多同藝術團體合作。同時，我亦是網上時裝店 “mukmuk: wardrobe” 主理人。我也是時尚博客，在網誌、YOUTUBE頻道分享自己對「美」的一套生活態度。

#2 - What satisfy you?

 

Samantha:

I love the process of self-discovery - to know what I can do, my ability. I learn my technique from studying it myself (sometimes from books or youtube!). It is true that I could learn faster if there is someone teaching; however, learning from mistakes give me extra satisfaction which pushes me to go further!

我喜愛自我發現的過程，不斷地發掘自己的能力。現在擁有的技能大部份都靠自己一點一點去發掘出來，當然有人從旁指導會快很多，但從碰板中學習改進的滿足感，是推動我不繼的前走的一個原因。
 

Charlotte: 

Being able to create. Nothing satisfies me more than putting what in my mind into reality.

有創作的能力。沒有什麼事情比把我腦中的影像成為實體更有滿足感。

#3 - Who were you 3 years ago?
And what kind of person you are after 3 years from now?

 

Samantha:

3 years ago, I was (or have always been?) a determined, strong-willed person, if I decided I have to do something, I will go for it whatever it takes! 3 years from now... It is difficult to say it solidly. People always ask the same question: "Have you achieved your dream?" No. My biggest dream is to be able to make different choices according to different stages of life. So it won't be achieved until I die! (Well... it's true). I wish that I am still a strong-willed person after 3 years, still doing what I want to do - but at the same time, spending some time for myself and the people I love.

三年前，我是一個倔強和向前衝的人，一但想到要做，就不顧一切地嘗試。很難說三年後我希望完成/達到甚麼，因為我了解自己實在太Free Flow, 經常有人問我是否已經完成了夢想，並不。我最大的夢想是在人生不同階段能自由地選擇想做的事，所以我的夢想在人生完結的一刻才真正完成。三年後我希望自己依然倔強，堅持去做想做的事，但偶爾慢下來多一點了解自己，了解身邊人。

 Charlotte:

I was a learner 3 years ago. Learning how to run an online shop, and how to start directing different creative projects. 3 years later... Be more confident and content in creative works, I guess? Still being passionate about what I am doing, and at the same time, "Stay hungry & Keep Learning".

2014年，我剛開始 mukmuk: wardrobe 和Freelance Creative的工作。開一間網上時裝店不容易，雖然不用付店租、也沒有任何的裝修工作；不過細節上也是讓我學到很多的。例如：入價、Set up網站、怎樣和顧客溝通等等。3年前的我，是起步者。
3年後？30歲的我，我希望是，可以比現在更悠然自得、對工作更得心應手，把自己對工作，創作的熱情延續下去。還有，Stay Hungry & Keep Learning.

My photography work - SixAurasStudies in 2016. Collaborated with Samantha.

How about you? What's your answer? Ask yourself the same questions, and talk to your best friend. Keep inspiring each other, and grow old, and be wiser together.

快點跟好朋友約會，然後問大家一樣的問題、一起討論、一起成長吧。

LOVES,

CHARLOTTE

To: The 90s "KID"

To: the 90s "kid"

You are no more a kid. Yes, you're no more a kid. You have lived for 27 years - you graduated from university, you have been focussing on work for 5-6 years, and now you go into another stage of your life.

You have also learned some important lessons in life.


You might have distance away from some friends, but it's okay - you understand that only the real friends who understand and support you matters. You might have several relationships, and you haven't keep in touch with most of them (most of the ex-es), but it's okay - you understand you have to let people go in order to meet the one who meant to be in your life. You might have lost an important people in your life, but it's okay - as the pain helps you grow and now you understand how important it is to treasure every moment as it only happens once in your life. You might have made some mistakes or you hurt people, but it's okay - now you know how to avoid doing it again and most importantly, you now have the power to forgive as you understand the intentions of other people when they did something wrong.

 

致：90後的你
 

不再是很年輕的妳，已經過了二十加七個年頭。

畢業以後，這六年間，我們本著青春、空間和機會，工作了好幾年。轉眼九十後也廿七歲。雖然沒了十六、七歲的青春和十八、九歲的無盡體力；卻少了廿一、二歲的驚驚青青，和幼嫩的處事，換來是開始有想法、和一點點的成熟起來。
 

在這些年，你也許跟部分的朋友走遠了；但不要緊，你知道最重要的是那些明白你的、支持你的朋友還在身邊。也許愛過幾個人、談過幾場戀愛、也許沒有再跟他們有聯繫；但不要緊，你明白有時你需要放手，才會真正擁有。也許你失去了一個對你很重要的人；但不要緊，那些痛苦讓你成長，和教曉你現在珍惜當下的每一刻，把每次，也當作最後一次。也許你犯過一些錯、傷害了一些人；但不要緊，現在的你可以避免犯同一的錯誤。最重要的是，當你看見別人犯錯的同時，你會明白他背後的原因，從而，你擁有了原諒別人的能力。

I do not regret what I've done in this 27 years. I am thankful for a happy childhood. I am thankful I've met a lot of amazing people in my life. They make me - "me". Apart from experiences you have gained in the past; just remember, that who you are today, it’s not who you have to be tomorrow. 

The most important thing I've learned in these 27 years. And how about you?

我不害怕一步步變老啊。反而時間，讓我更清楚自己想要什麼、想成為怎樣的人、做更好的選擇。
你呢？

Start now by asking yourself: “What’s the one thing I can do today to be a better person?”
Ask yourself the same question tomorrow. And the day after that. And so forth.

現在就問自己，有什麼我可以做，讓自己成為一個更好的人？
然後明天再問自己一樣的問題，然後後日再問、後後後日也問。直至永遠。

LOVES,

CHARLOTTE

Photographer : Edmond Ho
Outfits : Vintage Collection

Say No To Negative Thinking

I don't know about you, but some days I wake up with such negative emotions and anxiety that just glue me to my bed for hours of uselessness, until even the stillness in oblivion could not bear me and pushed me away. Lack of confidence, low energy, self-doubt... Negativity has been a haunting nightmare, worse than any imagination of wardrobe malfunction. 

I tend to indulge myself in these negative thinking. Some people combat this problem by immersing themselves in entertainment or substances. Perhaps sleeping and solitude was my distraction too, but as everyone knows, nightmares are a force to ignore, they linger somewhere in your room, patiently waiting for the moment you lose down your guard, and strike mercilessly.

So recently I decided to face this problem upfront, and to learn more about these thinkings. I started to ask myself "What do you really want?" "Who do you really want to be?" 

我並不是樂觀的人。幾年前曾經輕度抑鬱，兩年前漸漸變好。(也謝謝身邊的男朋友和朋友！1）
可是，誠實的告訴你，有時我仍會讓消極情緒和焦慮影響到。沒自信、自我懷疑... 這些消極、負面的思想其實一直在傷害自己。
有些人會選擇逃避、有些人會沈醉在負面的情緒中。雖然我不是什麼self help專家，我卻想分享幾點、對我非常有效的小建議：包括寫作、創作、和自己對話等等... 問自己「你真正需要什麼？你想成為一個怎樣的人？」好好了解自己，也許是心靈的最好解藥。

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Write It Down

Listen to Yourself, Know Yourself.

Sit down, grab a pen and a piece of paper, write down everything that you've been thinking. No matter it is about "what is in my working schedule?" "What should I eat for lunch?" or "How do I feel this morning?"; try to write down everything that is running through your mind. Writing is a process of self-listening; most importantly, you are also observing your mind. Get to know what is in your mind is a crucial factor to knowing what your problems are.

---

Talk To Yourself

Be Honest, and Precise

When I was younger, I used to think that those people who whisper or talk with themselves are weird. (Boyfriend alert.) Only now I realized it is the best way to communicate with yourself. (He talks to himself even in his sleep.) Our world constantly make it difficult for us to concentrate in our mind. Try to talk to yourself in the morning, ask yourself: What kind of day do you want? What can I do in order to achieve it? In the evening, refresh your mind by listing the things you have achieved, your most enjoyable moments, and say goodbye to negative thoughts; you will begin to feel serenity and it definitely improves your sleeping quality too.

Just simply say "I know you can do better tomorrow!" "Thank you for being yourself." You will be amazed by the power of your thoughts.

---

Learn To Be Happy Alone

Loneliness is a Blessing

“Paradoxically, the ability to be alone is the condition for the ability to love.” ― Erich Fromm.

Most people underestimate the importance of being alone. I am a person who loves personal space, most of the time I prefer having a cup of coffee and reading alone instead of hanging out with friends. (Yes, I am an introvert.) Meditating, reading, dreaming... It also means you have to refuse to look at your phone for some time. (What is it for anyway?) When you know how to be alone, you stay calm and peace in a quiet environment, you can take care of yourself and so you now know how to take care and love the others, too!

I am not a self-help guru, and I do spend a lot of time and effort to learn how to cope with negativity. I know how hard it is to cope with stress, at the same time I cannot deny - we are the only person who can thoroughly understand ourselves. Try not to focus on the past, and concentrate on here and now - What can I do for a better me?

Be ready to change, your life is yours, live it as you choose!

Photographer : Zuice Flower
Outfits : Ziztar

LOVES,

CHARLOTTE

Back to School Essentials

August, the last week of Summer holiday. 

I still remember the mood at the end of this month, I'm more like rushing all my holiday assignments, spending every single day with friends and enjoying the last week of "freedom and happiness".

However, a new school year always fizzes with excitement. We have new plans, new things that we want to achieve... Here is a list of essentials I wish I've prepared before the school year start.

又到了開學前的最後一個星期。記得當年還要上學的我，總是到這個星期才急急的把所有作業做完，再每一天也和朋友們約會唱K踏單車... 希望把最好一星期的自由和快樂好好利用。
不過，新的學年其實也是新一頁的開始。一連串的計劃、歷程才剛剛展開。「工欲善其事，必先利其器」- 雖則這個可能是購物的借口，不過有些東西我的確覺得是必須擁有的。例如：每天也會用到的環保水樽、餐具、飲管；上課用的文具、筆記本；一對好的眼鏡和電腦保護幕等等。這些小物，除了實用，其實也代表著你擁有自己的一個Statement、是屬於自己生活態度。

1. Reusable Water Bottle & Utensils Set

We tend to buy plastic water bottles whenever we are thirsty - no matter it is in the morning or after a sports lesson, because of it is so convenient. Even if more people tried to recycle, it still does not help a lot - studies show that in Hong Kong, we are disposing a large amount (5.28 million) of water bottle every single day! 
I strongly recommend that everyone should have bring their own "To-go" wares - from water bottle, to knife, forks, chopsticks... or even straw. It is a way more "fashionable" way of loving and protecting the world.

These items are my recent-favourite and I always remind myself to make sure I got these before I leave home:
Memo Bottle - I love how slim it is to put in a school bag...
Klean Kanteen Insulated Tumbler - Best for Coffee!
Tiger Stainless Steel Bottle - Great for chilly weather.
Bucket Straw - Great concept founded in HK, Stainless eco-friendly straw
Knife & Fork from Japan

And yes, you alone will make a difference. Eco-friendly is the new black.

2. Note Book & Stationery

It is just so important keeping a notebook!
Not only apply to school life, but these two things are on the top list of my "essentials" list. Notes taking, writing down inspirations & thoughts, schedule planning, setting different reminders... Although we are now so convenient by accessing the phone, I still prefer the traditional way. I become more self-aware when I go through what is in my mind, making sure and visualizing what to do and what needed to be done. Extremely useful for creative inspirations, too! I like to draw a mind-maps when I am brainstorming.
And I love returning to my notebook regularly to see what were in my mind, what lessons I have learnt, and how I become the person I am today.

Recently I'm using:
Moleskine Ruled Soft Notebook - I prefer ruled because I just love a tidy notebook!
Muji Planted Paper Monthly Schedule Notebook
Moleskine Classic Click Ball Pen 1.0 White
HAY #HAYPENCIL - The best pencil with a cover!

3. A Pair of Quality Glasses

There might be a lot of cheap options in the market, but are you really seeing your best and doing everything you can to protect your eyesight?
Cheap glasses could cause eyestrains, skin irritation, or even harm your eye-sight. Imagine you are wearing your glasses every day but they do more harm than good to your eyesight? Go to a knowledgeable optician and he could explain to you what you need to know - get fully protect your eyes for a lifetime of good vision. They usually offer warranty and after-services so that you can always make sure your pair of glasses are in the best condition. Start to love and protect your eyes more from today!

Savile Row Eyewear London - Their Opticians are professional and helpful! I have been wearing this glasses for two years and they are still in very good condition. Love their collection of stylish yet classic frames from all over the world, too.

4. Decorated Laptop Cover

I have been searching for a protective cover for my laptop and last year I got this from cover-up - a real stone skin for your computer. It just "naturally" stands out! People keep asking where did I got this from... and I just love it so much. It is extremely thin and beautiful.

COVER-UP Stone Skin for MacBook Air 

What are your essentials? Are they more or less same to mine?

If you are looking for more outfits idea for school or work, click here for more inspirations! The secret of mix & match with ONE color!

I hope you enjoy the last week of holiday and have a fresh new start in September!

Loves,