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True Self
【真實的我】
如實地做自己，是勇氣；也是最令自己舒服自在的選擇。
真實的我
如實地做自己，是勇氣；也是最令自己舒服自在的選擇。
小時候，老師、父母用過許多個方法教導我不能說謊，什麼「講大話會掉大牙」、「警察叔叔會來拉你」「說謊的小孩不乖，會沒人錫」甚麼的，用著恐懼來哄我就範。但是，到最後，能真的解釋「為什麼說謊不好」的原因，只有一個：
「每日如實的說真實的話，便不用每時每刻的記著，害怕謊話有日會給拆穿⋯⋯
要每天記著那麼多謊話，不是很累的事嗎？
說實話，就只需直接的回答就行了。」
這就說服了我不說謊。
然而，說謊也有許多不同的面向，
包括：你說的話、你的行動、你塑造的「形象」，也有分真實與不真實。長期戴著面具，用著「以為別人會喜歡的自己」去生活；日復日甚至連自己也被自己騙到。
曾經，我是很執著我在平台上所發佈的照片的「完美度」：不夠光的，不行、不是用專業攝影機拍的，不行、跟上個Post色調不夾的，不行⋯⋯ 曾經，對美學、風格上，有許多執著，後來甚至在分享的內容上，也愈來愈多控制。一天又一天，當讀者、followers開始增多，徬彿有一個無形的間尺在我的腦海中，有許多聲音在我創作/ 分享的時會出現：
「寫素食吧，大家也喜歡看健康的生活」
「跑步、行山的相片最大回應」
「又白又乾淨的簡約風最流行，調色時一定要這樣」
的確，這一切都是真實的我，可是我自己知道，光的底下充滿陰影⋯⋯ 我還是一個缺乏安全感的人，經常會壞疑自己的外表、能力；常不常會被憂傷、負面的情緒困著，也很害易會受情緒起伏而影響到工作和生活。我以為這些也是沒有人想看到的，所以我刻意把暗黑面的自己收起。
就如，手機中總有暗黑的照片，如果調色不合心意，包裝不了的話⋯⋯
寧願收藏。
可是，愈被壓抑的面向，出現率愈來愈密；憂傷的情緒像一頂大帽子，想除也除不了。慢慢，會覺得自己有點抽離，看著親了「塑造」的自己，竟有點陌生和抗拒——她不是在說謊，只是她在說的，不是事情的全部。
不喜歡，要找原因。我發現自己經常性在「要不要忠於自己」的問題上猶疑不決，便索性對症下藥⋯⋯
不再花力氣在勉強自己，只努力去成全自己，而我相信，當無論黑、白兩面也能不抗拒表露，100%做回真實自己時，是最有感動人的能力的。而我也發現，當我有勇氣承認自己的黑暗面，其實也讓在同路上爭扎的同路人有陪伴的安慰。
每天，如實地做自己，便是最自在、最輕鬆的事。
也許版面不再有完美的配色，但我的心卻透徹無比。沒有恐懼、沒有掩飾，只有純粹的紀錄，真真實實的生活與靈感日常。
願 大家也可以自在做自己！
Love,
Charlotte
Genmaicha Cream Bun: Ovule Bakery
Plate & Glass Mug: MIDWAY shop
White Mug: BASAO tea
Coffee drip bag: The Literal Coffee
Photo & Text: Charlotte In White
About LOVE
關於愛情的小二三事
許多人說，遇上對的人，會完整自己。我卻認為，遇上(認識)自己，好好專注發展自己，你自己便是對的人。有趣的是，當你不覺得有任何缺乏的東西，甚至不缺乏一段關係之時，那個對的愛人，就會被你吸引到、出現了。
When you start understanding yourself much more, focusing on your own growth, you will attract the right person. When you do not feel that there is anything lacking, the right one will be attracted to you.
關於愛情的小二三事
有時候，我喜歡在Instagram上發問，想知道你們的想法，想我寫什麼呢？想不到的，是有朋友叫我多分享「有關愛情」的事。
寫作靈感大多來自個人經歷，我也非「愛情專家」，戀愛次數，一雙手數得完。最大原因是我不容易喜歡上一個人，當然，同時由細到大我也不是多人追的女生——在男生眼中，大概我也不是gf-able的女生，安靜又帶點獨特的「奇怪」；but it’s ok，懂性以來，我也相信「有緣就會遇上」。不過，從這十多年的小小經驗中，慢慢地看到了一些自己在關係中的缺失。這些經驗，都提點著我在下一次的關係中，要怎樣去愛，怎樣成為一個更好的人。
Sometimes, I love asking you guys about the blogging topic on Instagram. Few days ago, one friend suggests that she is interested in reading more about “love & relationship” - which I was quite surprised.
My writings are usually inspired by story of my life. And by no means I could claim myself as a love & relationship expert (sorry, I have just a few serious relationships in my “history”). But, I guess through out some up & downs in these years, I have understand much more about myself & my partner; and thus maybe I could share some little reminders (for myself) in building future relationships. Or more importantly, and simply, how to be a better person.
Partner, not Boyfriend/ Girlfriend
還記得小時候二人三足的遊戲嗎？請放棄「男朋友、女朋友」的慣性稱號吧！一段感情當中，其實我們是希望找個可以一人一步、步伐一致、陪伴大家一起走下去的人。關係當中包括了信任、支持、尊重及互相成長。伴侶(Partner)，這個名稱其實更合適。
Still remember the “Three-legged Race”?
Give up the usual names of "Boyfriend or Girlfriend". In a relationship, in fact, we want to find someone who can walk together along the way in a similar pace. It is about the accompany, which includes trust, support, respect, care and mutual growth. “Partner”, which means a pair of people engaged together in the same activity, is much more precise when we come to talk about a relationship.
在他出現之前 Before he/she comes
了解自己、接受自己。如果一部分的你還是空洞、未知的，期待有一個人出現就會把它解決的話，對不起…… 這是不可能的。即使在短時間內，他的存在填補了你一部分的空虛；時間一長，要不你會感覺太依賴對方，要不就是覺得自己好像比以前空虛了。我喜歡一個比喻，說一段關係，不是0.5+0.5=1，是1+1=我們——不是倚賴別人來完整自己，而是要一起走出完整的人生。別急，好好認識自己、更深的了解自己，對的人便會出現了。
Don’t be hurry, please spend time to know yourself and befriend with yourself. If part of you is still feeling empty, and expecting the “Mr./Miss Right” will magically solve those problems, I'm sorry ... this is IMPOSSIBLE. Even if his/her presence fills a part of the feeling of emptiness at first, as time goes by, you will either too dependent on your partner, or you will feel even emptier than before. There is an analogy, saying that relationship is not 0.5 + 0.5 = 1, but 1 + 1 = us. We are not relying on others to complete ourselves, but by having each other accompanied, we figure out our life together. Know yourself well, understand your mind, and the right person will … Tada! He or she will be there.
在他出現之後 After he/she comes
一，有記性。
一開始你為什麼覺得這個人特別，第一次認真看著他眼睛的感覺，第一次擁抱的感覺。這些感覺都是非常個人和獨特的，也是幾段感情過後，我學到的第一件事——要把它們都放在心頭，好好記著。在一段關係中，我們會很容易習慣大家的存在，很容易take each other for granted，慢慢地就忘記了彼此的特別、觸動到你內心的地方。時刻懷著感恩的心，去欣賞對方的每一個舉動，也許是保持關係甜蜜的秘訣。
First, have a GOOD MEMORY.
It is all about why you started. The very special human being in front of you, his/ her beautiful eyes, the intimacy between you two… These feelings are very personal and unique. In a relationship, it is easy to take each other for granted, slowly forgetting the special feelings and loving moments. Always with gratitude, admiring each other may be the secret to maintaining a loving relationship.
二，別小覷原諒的力量。
現世代，我們追求平等，追求完美的對象，對方稍有犯錯稍有缺點，我們就覺得：這個人不太值得我去愛。放棄成為了很容易，也大不了的事。可是，我卻覺得應該要聆聽自己心裏的聲音。除了表面的對錯，你有想過對方為什麼會犯錯嗎？嘗試去了解對方的想法，去明白對方。最重要是，「如果明天是世界末日，那今天的你還會選擇去愛他嗎？」Bingo，你內心就有答案了。
Second, don't underestimate the power of forgiveness.
In modern times, we pursue equality and always hope to look for a perfect partner. If he/ she makes a few mistakes, we may feel that this person may simply not the one. It is always easy to give up on a relationship. However, apart from the “who is right and who is wrong”, have you ever wondered why he/she made the mistake? Try to not be caught in your own thoughts, but to understand his/her situation behind the mistake. And, "If tomorrow is the end of the world, would you still choose to love him today?" Bingo, you have the answer in your heart, listen to it, trust your intuition.
三，不再為小事動氣。
一時周圍放的污糟衫、偶爾忘記了的重要日子等等的小事，不要太在意而動氣吧！不發脾氣，其實你可以選擇好好的解釋，又或者以一個輕鬆、開玩笑的方式去取代。別忘了，一段關係，一段partnership是互相支持不完美的大家一起走下去；而支持、鼓勵永遠也比負面情感奏效。小事情，一起笑笑，然後改過吧！
Third, don’t sweat the small stuff!
Maybe it is the dirty laundry all over the floor, the important event that he/she occasionally forgets… and so on. There are 90% of the stuff that your partner did annoy you! But hey, before losing your temper immediately, can you think of something else to react? Explain to each other by teasing or making a joke of him/ her? Don't forget, a partnership means to support encourage each other along the way, even if we are not perfect. A positive attitude is always the key. Don’t sweat the small stuff, just laugh it out and change!
四，不要停止做最好的自己。
不要停止、拒絕成長。即使走的路不一樣；但步伐一致，是走在一起的關鍵。
Fourth, don't stop being your best self.
Don't refuse to grow even in a comfortable relationship! Mutual growth, support and encouragement are the keys in a long-lasting partnership.
許多人說，遇上對的人，會完整了自己。我卻認為，遇上(認識)自己，好好專注發展自己，你自己便是對的人。有趣的是，當你不覺得有任何缺乏的東西，甚至不缺乏一段關係之時，那個對的愛人，就會被你吸引到、出現了。
When you start understanding yourself much more, focusing on your own growth, you will attract the right person. When you feel there is nothing lacking, the right one, will be attracted to you.
with love & blessings,
Charlotte
PS: HELLO!
Jessie Jing, the beautiful cover girl in the photo, is publishing her first book 《Manuscripts of the Mind》.
The book is a series of poetry and prose dedicated to and inspired by the fantastical world of the bipolar mind and how one journey through the metamorphosis of one’s state of living to a state of being.
Pre-order available: 《Manuscripts of The Mind》
Photos in the article:
Art Direction • @charlotteinwhite
Photography • @nylllllk
Set Design • @makeyourchoicesss_floralab
Wardrobe • @futureclassicsofficial
5 Morning Habits to Calm Your Day
【早上完成這五件事，會給你平靜的一天】
有些事情，我每天起床也會做。不知不覺成了生活日常的日常，這些事不難做也不太花時間，只需要提醒自己就可以了。
“When you keep doing something for 21 days they become a habit.”
And yes, there are something I will do every morning, and doing so it makes everything different - not only my health is getting better, I feel a lot calmer throughout the day too.
早上完成這五件事，會給你平靜的一天
有些事情，我每天起床也會做。不知不覺成了生活日常的日常，這些事不難做也不太花時間，只需要提醒自己就可以了。
“When you keep doing something for 21 days they become a habit.”
And yes, there are something I will do every morning, and doing so it makes everything different - not only my health is getting better, I feel a lot calmer throughout the day too.
每天起床，花5分鐘時間坐在床上或坐墊上，閉上眼晴，靜靜地聆聽自己的呼吸。
2. 整理及收拾床舖——整齊的睡房不單立即讓你感覺舒服自在，晚上回家時也能讓身體心情好好休息。
3. 早上淋浴，可以嘗試使用半冷或全冷水——它會讓你的鼻子都非常暢通，有一種早上在大海暢泳的感覺。（踫到冷水記得要保持呼吸，別閉氣，呼吸會讓你容易適應水的溫度；也可以先撥一些水在肚子讓身體適應）
4. 挑戰自己，起床別趕緊去沖咖啡，反而在睡覺前倒一杯水；起床後，加一點檸檬汁，把它整杯喝完。
5. 預早15分鐘出門，時間鬆動一些，也許會發覺心情也放鬆一點。
Don’t look at your phone immediately at the moment you woke up. Try to sit on the bed, or on a cushion, cross your legs, softly close your eyes, pay attention to your breathing for 5 minutes.
2. Make your bed - a tidy and clean space not only brighten up your mood immediately, and when you back from work at night, it provides you a warm welcome with a space for you to rest.
3. Take a cold shower in the morning. Cold shower will help your breathing to be smooth, and nothing is better than a feeling of diving in the sea in the morning. (little reminder: Keep breathing will let you to adapt to the temperature of water, and you may want to start with pulling some water to your belly first.)
4. Challenge yourself: Rather than going to make yourself a coffee, start your morning with a cup of still water with some lemon juice. It helps to detoxify your body.
5. Try to leave our home 15 minutes earlier than usual to get to work or school. With abundance of time, you may feel the whole day is much more relaxing.
你也有屬於自己的早上習慣嗎？
Do you have your own morning rituals too?
Love,
Charlotte
How I Stop Judging & Start Loving Myself
【活在自己的外表下】
「活在自己的外表下」這句說話很奇怪吧，不是所有人都叫妳「別活在自己的外表下」嗎？
Everyone told us we shouldn’t be limited with how we look, no?
活在自己的外表下
「活在自己的外表下」這句說話很奇怪吧，不是所有人都叫妳「別活在自己的外表下」嗎？
Everyone told us we shouldn’t be limited with how we look, no?
我曾經是患嚴重「討厭自己」的病人。
現世代的女生很難當，活在大眾的眼光下，那「美」的標準高得不容許半分的差距。假如你像我一樣，也是個完美主義者，也許常常也會問自己同一堆問題：
「我有沒有看起來肥了一點？」
「我的皮膚太差嗎？那暗瘡有沒有太搶眼了？」
「天啊，我的髮形是想怎樣⋯⋯怎麼每一天也是Bad hair day。」
「（滑Instagram的同時）我也想好像她線條那麼美，今天的晚餐不吃好了⋯⋯」
我不知道社會的標準從何時開始變成這樣，廣告、社交媒體上充斥著完美無瑕的臉孔。一模一樣的審美觀，也讓我曾經在路上迷失過。是的，幾年前的我也拼命的做運動和節食，為了看上去、照片拍上去不用再美圖修瘦一點，也不用去除臉上那過多的斑點。為了迎合大眾，為了迎合潮流，為了自己喜歡上自己，明明沒有吃過早餐也會去街上跑個五公里，每次也快要頭暈的倒下、明明背就痛得不得了，也會迫自己做Sit up。
身材瘦了、比例好了，得到的稱贊也漸漸多了。社交媒體上發的照片也愈來愈多人留意，因為我替自己做了一個「健康」的形象——我做運動、我吃得健康、早睡早起。每個人也喜歡這個看上去清爽、有型的女生。是的，我也喜歡這個我塑造出來的自己。可是，我卻受飲食不協調而困擾。日復日，看著自己在磅上的磅數愈來愈低，我像上癮了的感覺。
直到有一天，我再看不過眼自己「造」出來的自己。我得到幾多人的追隨，得到幾多人的喜愛，有令我對自己感覺好一點，愛自己多一點嗎？
I used judge myself a lot, like all day, everyday.
You cannot imagine how difficult it is to be a woman. We are all being judged by media and society, the “passing line”, the standard of being beautiful, is always hard to reach, almost impossible to fulfill. If you are a perfectionist like me too, maybe these questions will always be on your head:
”Do I look fat? Because I ate too much in the last holiday?”
”Why I always having such an acne-prone skin?”
”My hair looks horrible…”
”Why is she so skinny? I’d better skip the dinner tonight… (while looking other’s profile on instagram)”
I have no idea why this standard becomes so normal nowadays (or even for decades, already). And yes, I’ve had lost myself in this journey of “Pursuit of Perfection”. Back to few years ago, I ate little and I kept on exercising every single day - not because I love working out, but it is for another hidden reason - I don’t have to photoshop myself in computer anymore in order to look tiny and thin in pictures. I thought it was the meaning of perfection, I thought if I look perfect, I would be happy. I forced myself to run 5km every morning even before breakfast, kept doing sit up even I was suffering from back pain… I thought by having such discipline, I would had the control over my body, and my happiness. That was me, 4 years ago.
And after just two months, I started losing a lot of weight. And then… the pictures I post on social media got more likes, and I gained quite an amount of followers too. Seems that everyone loves a sporty, healthy girl with a “well-balanced” life. However, the truth was I am suffering from eating disorder. Seeing the dropping numbers on the weighting scale everyday, I was totally addicted to this feeling of “controlling & regulating” myself.
Until one day, I couldn’t accept this anymore.
No matter how many followings I gained, how many likes I got - I didn’t feel happier. Deep inside, I knew something was wrong inside me… I didn’t know how to stop judging myself. My heads were full of judgements and negative emotions that I couldn’t let go. I don’t know how to start loving myself.
But I wanted to change.
我開始看很多不同女生的語錄或是文章。我開始明白，要懂得愛別人，先要學懂怎樣愛自己。對自己再不要太苛刻，要懂得欣賞自己。我也開始接觸宇宙的世界觀。明白到，想要得到一樣東西，先要讓自己知道自己的目標和想法，宇宙才會安排你想要的事情發生。而最重要的，是懂得愛自己，要和自己好好相處。
現在去上一課瑜珈課，是因為可以令內心平靜下來；去行山、呼吸新鮮空氣，是因為讓身體吸收自然養份。做這些事，是為了讓自己愛自己多一點。每每在躍動、流下汗水的一刻，我感到實在的快樂，那不再是來自磅上的數字跳動。
依然愛發社交媒體上的照片，是因為，我發現，沒有其他的事比可以影響到別人來得更有滿足感和快樂。（現在還寫專欄和出書了！）如果你下次在鏡子前嫌棄自己、想餓自己的時候，會記起我的文字，那對我來說，就是莫大的成就和快樂了。
雖然，踏入二十八歲了的我最近開始受身體一點點的小老化（像新陳代謝開始變慢、臉上的色斑開始愈來愈多等等）而影響。但在擦保養品的同時，我清楚意識到我擁有了年月給我的經驗、歲月給我的啟發，而這些一點一點，也讓我變得更為動人。
So I started reading. Reading a lot of online articles, quotes about self-care & self-love. I started questioning myself where do these negative thoughts come from, and observing them one by one, passively acknowledging it. I started to understand I have to heal myself through self-love, before I could know how to care for others. The more I know about spirituality, the more I believe in the law of attraction. I started to find my goals, understand my thoughts, witness my emotions. Most importantly, I started practicing self-care and self-love…
Now, when I practice yoga, it is because it calms me and remind me of love & compassion; when I go hiking, it is because of the fresh air and to relax the body. I move because I love my body and honour it. Every time I feel my heart beating and sweat dropping, I am thankful for being alive, being able to walk on earth. And, the true happiness comes. My emotions no longer affected by the fluctuation on scale. I am free.
I still love posting pictures on social media, writing for blog & magazine and even published a book last year. Being able to spread positive messages, share inspirations with others, bring me the biggest satisfaction and happiness. If… next time, when you are judging yourself in front of the mirror, and thinking if you should skip meals, and suddenly think of my story, and remind yourself to drop any judgements - that would bring me tremendous joy.
Although I am now approaching 29 and I begin to notice some changes on my body (slower metabolism, more and more freckles on the face, etc.). However, I clearly know that they are simply a sign of maturity and wisdom, and that makes me more beautiful too. I accept what it is as it is.
「別活在自己的外表下」，說的冠冕堂皇，但真正能做到嗎？我就未有這修為了。更實際一點的，定義你個人專屬的「好」，然後透過改善生活的細節去令自己變得更好（別只在模仿，要真心相信和實踐）；別讓外來的標準去判斷「不好」，也接受那些你眼裡不好（這是困難的我知道）。只有這樣，當你即使「活在自己的外表下」，也能找到自身的美好，就這樣，人類最強的美麗就出來了——那叫自信！
要記得，學懂欣賞自己的美麗吧，因為世界上就只有你一個，獨一無二的存在。有一句張國榮的在演唱會上說過的話，我一直放在心裏，常常提醒自己——
「人最緊要既就係，你懂得點樣去愛人之外⋯⋯最緊要既，係你識得去欣賞你自己。」
“Don’t define yourself by how you look.” It sounds nice, but how can we really pursuit it in everyday life? It might be hard, but you start from shifting your mindset, changing your thinking habits - try not to make judgements because of the outside standard, don’t engage the negative thoughts, simply observe… Witness where did these thoughts come from, and slowly you will know it is all coming from LOVE, because you want to be a better version of yourself.
Remember, learn to see and admire how beautiful you already are. Because you are the one and only one, the most special human being on this earth.
Treat yourself as you treat others; love yourself as you love others.
LOVE,
CHARLOTTE
You Smell Like GREEN
【法式簡約。零化學物的綠色香氣】
100Bon，英文唸出是Scent Bon，意思是美好的香氣，回歸『香味』本質。的確，有理念的綠色品牌是美好的。
【法式簡約。零化學物的綠色香氣】
女生，總喜歡聞上去香香的。
身邊有些朋友卻容易皮膚敏感，就算無論有多喜歡香氣，也沒法使用香水。早陣子受 100BON 的邀請，做過一個 “100BON EXPERIENCE” - 對這個綠色品牌概念非常有好感，所以希望在這邊介紹一下。
Fragrance is an invisible (& the most attractive) accessory.
However, some friends of mine have to avoid perfume because of allergies (chemicals). Last week, I was happy to be invited by 100BON for a "100BON EXPERIENCE" - and I’ve fall in love with the green concept behind the brand immediately.
它來自法國，兩位創辦人以前都是國際香水品牌的香水專家，不過因為想專心製作好(BON)、健康及純淨的香氛，也不願意添加對人和地球有害的化學物，所以才創立 100BON。當中，所有香水來也是來自於100%天然原材料——不含石化原料、人工香精、致敏物質等等，讓擁有敏感肌膚，甚至是懷孕女性都可以安心使用。
此外，你會發現這個品牌有一點不同：它捨去過度包裝，也不做動物試驗，原料也是來自可持續的農業。100Bon，英文唸出是Scent Bon，意思是美好的香氣，回歸『香味』本質。
的確，有理念的綠色品牌是美好的。
100BON is the first French perfume manufacturer 100% dedicated to natural ingredients. With a collection of 100% natural fragrances, which are rechargeable, green and accessible. The perfumes are designed and developed in France based on essential oils, without colour, phtalates and petrochemicals - a safe & clean perfume for those with sensitive skin, even during pregnancy.
Their products are not tested on animal, with 100% vegetables ingredients, and minimises costly bottles and too much packaging, with a holistic “Green” philosophy.
自己搭配的專屬香氣
那天，我上了一課「香水體驗課程」，在三十多種不同香氣中找出自己喜歡的香氣，把多款香調堆疊——搭配出屬於自己的味道。每支100BON香水都可根據其香調分類分成前、中、後調，並按照個人喜好組合出完整香水結構；100BON特別之處，就是可以根據個人對香味的取向，選擇自己使用的順序而疊噴出獨特的香水組合，每款香水的呈現方式亦因此變得各有不同。基本上，是沒可能和別人「撞味」！
這個Tailor-made的過程其實很好玩～
Tailor-made & Layering
On that day, I took a “Discovery Workshop” - learning their concepts and natural perfumes as well as learning how to mix and match for creating my personalized perfume. With over 20 kinds of scents, I played with endless possibility with the sequence of layering. There were a lot of “experiments”, but that was really fun.
“So what is Charlotte’s Layering Combination?”
Charlotte’s Layering Combination
後調 Base Note：雪松&鳶尾花 CEDRE ET IRIS SOYEUX
些許的甜味，結合了細緻的木調
A wooden floral hint, a powder & exciting scent with an aura of fascination
中調 Middle Note：含羞草&天芥花 MIMOSA & HELIOTROPE POUDRE
一個同時帶著花香與粉感的香調，溫柔而甜美
A delicate, soft sweetness with floral & powdery notes.
前調 Top Note：橙花&苦橙葉 NEROLI & PETIT GRAIN PRINTANIER
春天的青澀味道
A mix of floral & suave hints, like a spring bud.
“The secret ingredient is always LOVE.” 太喜歡這一句了。
真正的可持續香氣
最後，最令我深刻的是，每一家店也可以重覆補充香水——只要拿回空瓶就可以了（價格也很相宜！）這樣不但減少耗材，也為地球盡一分力。
環保不只是說，而是要做啊！
A Sustainable & Rechargeable Perfume
What impressed me the most is their GREEN 100% REFILLABLE method. All of their perfumes can be recharged and refill this as many time as you wish in 10/10 HOPE store. Not only this minimise the waste, it also make each perfume much more affordable.
A collaboration with 10/10 HOPE & 100 BON
Love,
Charlotte
A Lesson to Self-Care
【好好照顧自己】
茹素雖然不是魔法，卻讓我意識到「要好好照顧自自己」的道理，除了應用在飲食上，應該應用在生活各方面。那麼，同樣道理，可否用在心靈層面上？你有沒有好好照顧自己的情感？
Although following a plant-based diet is not a life-changing magic, it inspired me to “how to live well?” in other aspects. Meanwhile, can we apply the same concept into our inner self?
好好照顧自己
這幾年，我經常聽到幾個經常形容我的形容詞，清爽、獨特、平靜。不少訪問會問我茹素以後，心靈會否變得平靜起來。茹素雖然不是魔法，卻讓我意識到「要好好照顧自自己」的道理，除了應用在飲食上，應該應用在生活各方面——好好吃一頓飯，好好穿衣，好好工作，好好生活。那麼，同樣道理，可否用在心靈層面上？你有沒有好好照顧自己的情感？
There are always a few keywords describing me - fresh, unique and calm. But I have not always been a calm girl since childhood. It took me many years to be who I am now, to learn those lessons I have to learn. Although following a plant-based diet is not a life-changing magic, it inspired me to “how to live well?” in other aspects, such as having good meals, wear comfortable clothes and work well etc. Meanwhile, can we apply the same concept into our inner self?
什麼是身心靈健康？
What is well-being?
簡義來說，一個健康和快樂的狀態。
(n.) A state of feeling healthy and happy.
身、心、靈三方面是相互連繫，相互影響。一個人的健康，身就是身體、生理；心就是心理、情緒；靈代表靈性、靈魂，這三方面之間必須維持一個平衡，我們才會在一個真正健康的狀態。
Body,Mind,Soul - three are related and affecting each other. Healthy body may be the most common definition we hear health. Healthy mind, which we may think of peaceful emotions and mindset. Soul, about our spiritual health, help us to find happiness and meaning of life. One must achieve a balance in these three aspects in order to enjoy a healthy life as a whole.
“Self-care means being switched on, fully present and engaged in your life. It’s the opposite of switching off and retreating from the world. Ignoring your own needs leaves you depleted, but self-care will energise you.”
曾經，當我對外界的煩擾而感到疲累時，我會選擇逃避，讓自己躲在家中，對外不聞不問。那時候的我覺得，我需要這一點安靜又安全的時間去休息。不過，休息的愈久，卻會感到無力感更重。
I used to “switching off” myself when I have negative emotions and anxiety. They just glue me to my bed for hours of uselessness. I thought I needed that space to rest and think. However, the longer I indulge myself in switching off, the more powerless I feel towards everything.
真正照顧自己，意思是讓自己完全投入，百分百的參與在你的生活中。這與隔離自己、避開外邊世界的方式完全相反。 忽視自己的需求會讓你感到疲憊不堪，但好好照顧自己卻可以激勵你，讓你重新感到自己的力量。嘗試把專注力重新回到自身，打開耳朵好好聽一聽身體的需要、觀察自己對事物的反應，慢慢地訓練自己的敏感度和相信自己的直覺。
Caring for yourself means to let yourself be fully engaged and presented in your life. This is the exactly opposite of isolating yourself from the outside world. Ignoring your own needs can make you feel exhausted, but taking care of yourself can motivate you and make you feel your inner strength again. Try to put concentration back to yourself — listen to your body's needs, observe your reactions to the surrounding, and slowly train your sensitivity and start beliving your instincts.
照顧自己的日常練習
Practice these few steps
聽上去好像很難明白？不如由生活上幾個簡單細節開始吧！
在晨光初起的早上，練習瑜珈、冥想，放鬆呼吸，把筋骨放鬆；好動的你也可以選擇做一點肌肉訓練，把專注力都重新回到自身。
在忙碌的下午，為自己泡一壷茶或沖煮一杯咖啡，讓自己慢慢從急促生活中放慢節奏，享受一下平靜和放鬆的時刻。
在寧靜的晚上點起心愛的香氛蠟燭，放點輕鬆的慢音樂，偶爾使用讓人放鬆的精油搽在手腕，或是睡前噴幾下天然香氣的pillow mist，好好舒眠及舒緩情緒。
Hard to understand? Don’t worry… It's always better to start with a daily routine.
In the early morning, start the day by practicing yoga and meditation, try to relax your breathing and your body. If you are an active person, you may try doing some muscle training, and put the concentration back to yourself.
During a busy afternoon, make yourself a cup of tea or brew a cup of coffee, let yourself to slow down from the rush of life, try to enjoy a moment of calm and relaxation.
In the quiet evening, you can light your favourite scented candle, play some slow music; and maybe use relaxing essential oils to massage your hands, or to spray a few drop of soothing sleeping mist before going to bed.
對我來說，奢華不等於是物質上的種種，而是對生活的細節有要求，講求生活上的質感；美好的生活，從照顧好自己的需要開始。
To me, luxury is never a materialistic concept, but it requires your attention to every details in life, looking for the quality of life. Well-being begins with you treat yourself with good care.
最後，想感謝 10/10 HOPE 的邀請，在剛剛的倫敦之旅給了我到 bamford 的體驗。品牌的理念不但跟我很相近，「用在身體上的跟吃進去的同樣重要」，還有他們holistic（全面的）的想法和理念，也帶給我對身心靈不一樣的看法。
Last but not least, I would like to thank 10/10 HOPE for their invitation and bamford for their warm welcoming. Not only I appreciate their brand concept and belief - “What goes on the body is as important as what we put inside.”, also they inspired me to have deeper understanding about well-being.
我和他們也合作拍了一個短的影片——很快就會跟大家見面，請期待喔！
I have also partnered with them to create a video, please stay tuned!
PS: 那天在Brompton Cross的 Daylesford 吃午餐，全素的選擇很多呢；就像我手上拿著的Pizza，滿滿的antichoke洋蓟，新鮮烤出來的就是特別的滋味！除了Cafè外，他們也有賣新鮮、有機食材、家品等等，果真是一個全面的體驗。
PS: After visiting bamford store, the staff recommended that I should visit Daylesford for lunch. Plenty of vegetarian/vegan options and healthy meals, perfect for gathering with friends and family. Also, remember to check out their grocery store (with organic natural food) and homewares shop, I am sure you will spend quite a lot of time there!
Daylesford
76-82 Sloane Avenue Brompton Cross
London SW3 3DZ
Love,
Charlotte
Being Eslite BestSelling Author & Book Sharing
素系分享會 與 誠品暢銷榜
Last weekend, I hosted two book sharing sessions in Eslite Bookstores. And I have two amazing news - one of them is that my book reached the Bestsellers in the store.
剛剛的週末，我在誠品書店舉辦了一連書本分享會，還有上了誠品暢銷榜和另一天大喜訊。
素系分享會 與 誠品暢銷榜！
素系誠品分享會
Two Book Sharings in Eslite Bookstores
剛剛的週末，我在誠品香港 2018 Reading Summer「靈感解密室」的主題活動中，分別在銅鑼灣和太古店舉辦了書本分享會，講述我書中的靈感與分享我的素系生活。很感謝到場的每一位，兩節一小時的分享中，見到很多原本陌生的面孔，卻因為《素系風格》連結起來；你們用心的聽，讓我感到無比榮幸。（對，很抱歉我的嗓子太差了；幸好你們也不嫌我棄我沙啞的聲音。）
Last weekend, I hosted two book sharing sessions, one of the events in 2018 Reading Summer organised by Eslite Hong Kong - to share my inspirations of the book and life. I can never imagine how 《LifeStyle In White》 has brought all of you together, and I'm really grateful to see so many new faces, paying so much attention during the 1-hour book sharing.
(I am sorry that my voice was terrible - and fortunately, none of you has any complaints about it!)
我是誠品暢銷書作者！
I'm the Best Selling Author!
另外，其中一個很叫人興奮的消息，就是《素系風格》登上了誠品暢銷榜！記起剛剛出書的時侯，和哥哥走到書店，說要拍在書店上架的照片。我笑說：「放New Arrivals邊夠啊，等我放去暢銷榜影張相呃下人先！」
然後，新書出版未到兩個月的今天，這個小願望實現了。看到「BestSellers 誠品書店暢銷榜」的貼紙貼到書本右下角——實實在在的，《素系風格》得到了大家的肯定。
Another very exciting and unexpected news -《LifeStyle In White》 has reached the Eslite Bestsellers (Health & Well-being Rank 7)after published for 1.5 months! I still remember, two months ago, my brother and I went to the bookstore, wanted to take some pictures of my book. I joked that I should put it on the Best-Selling section instead of the New-Arrivals section to take a "unprecedented" picture.
Yesterday, the moment I saw the sticker of "Eslite Bookstore Bestsellers" being sticked to the bottom right corner of the book, I know that 《LifeStyle In White》 has been affirmed by many, many of you. I can proudly say that "I am the best selling author in Eslite Bookstore!".
另一個天大的喜訊
Another GREAT NEWS...
出書快要兩個月，得到很多朋友、陌生人、傳媒朋友一直的支持；也非常感謝誠品香港的同事兩天的幫忙、天窗出版社一直支持和名嘴哥哥Calvin林偉豪做司儀；媽媽也當我兩天的保姆，貼身照料感冒失聲中的我。
剛剛也知道《素系風格——素食與簡約生活練習》入圍了第五屆香港金閱獎（香港出版界的「奧斯卡」）；天大的喜訊，入圍了就當自己羸了！
（可以還是有公開網上投票的環節，到時候要大家幫手了！）
In these months, I have received endless support and love from many of my new and old friends (Yes, if you are reading this now, you are definitely one of them). Also, I must give a big applause to Eslite Hong Kong for their help in the weekend; Enrich Publishing for supporting all along the way and my best brother the one and only Calvin Lam being my greatest MC all the time. And last but not least, thank you to my mum who always takes good care of me when I am sick.
I just know that the 《LifeStyle In White》 was shortlisted for the 5th Hong Kong Book Award (the "Oscar" in Hong Kong Publishing Industry). Okay... that really means so much to me and I already think I have won even I was just being shortlisted!
Public online voting will start very soon and your vote would mean so much to me!
Thank you for always sharing the best news with me,
Charlotte
Herbivore GF & Omnivore BF
素食女友：我的肉食男友
I guess, there should be over 90% of boys who do not prefer to be a Vegetarian.
Or I should put it in this way, 90% of them cannot stand for a meal without meat!
我猜，世界上應該有百分之九十的男生也不喜歡吃素。或許應該這樣說，百分之九十的男生也不喜歡沒有肉食。
素食女友：我的肉食男友
我猜，世界上應該有百分之九十的男生也不喜歡吃素。
或許應該這樣說，百分之九十的男生也不喜歡沒有肉食。
I guess, there should be over 90% of boys who do not prefer to be a Vegetarian.
Or I should put it in this way, 90% of them cannot stand for a meal without eating meat!
我身邊有些男性朋友，知道那一餐他們要吃素的話，是真的會憂鬱起來， 有些更開玩笑的說：「那我先吃肉，『打個底』來好了！」對於男生，只吃菜，肚子還是會相當空虛；一餐沒肉吃⋯⋯「我不飽啊！」
對於「男生真的比較難成為素食者嗎？」這個問題，我會稱之為，因為他們沒有女生的決斷和行動力（看我從肉食一下子轉為素食就知道我真有很強的行動力了）。男生與素食生活這個組合，是一件多麼讓人驚訝的事。
If my friends and I are going for a Vegetarian lunch or dinner that day, some of my male friends will be really, really "depressed". Some of them would even be joking and saying "Oh, then I should eat something meaty before having dinner with you!". For guys, it seems they strongly believe that they will end up with an empty stomach with a meatless meal. (Again, not all of them, but maybe 90%!)
"Are Boys truly harder to become a Vegetarian?" Well, the combination of "Boys" and "Vegetarian life" seems to be a mismatch.
如何經營一段「素與葷」的愛情
when a Vegetarian love a Omnivore
在愛情的路上，又怎樣？說真的，當時我轉為吃素，真的有為這個問題擔心過。到底將來的男朋友會不會因為每一餐也要和我吃素而不習慣，甚至不會喜歡上我呢？
Honestly, when I first changed my diet to be a Vegetarian, I was really worried about the issue. "Will my future boyfriend not be used to eating vegetarian food for every meal, or even feeling hard to hang out with me?
結果一：
當然是我有交上男朋友，交往也快三年了。
不過， 重點是， 你有沒有清楚了解自己／ 對方的想法？ 為甚麼你們會是肉食者和素食者？你們懂不懂得尊重對方的選擇？常言道，戀人的相處之道，是溝通、互相了解，並尊重對方。這並非只是有關把甚麼食物放進口的問題，而是有關生活上所有的事。試想想，假如你們一個喜歡音樂，另一個喜歡畫畫，你們會因此嫌棄對方嗎？假如你們一個喜歡放假在家看書，另一個則好動得非走出去戶外活動不可，你們會因為這樣而分開嗎？ 常常聽說一些戀人， 在拍拖甚至結婚後，說大家性格不合，對方並不是自己想要的類型⋯⋯那我想問一下，在決定一起之前，其實有充分的了解自己及對方嗎？還是只是一時興起與衝動，最後分手就是因為了解呢？
Conclusion 1:
I have a boyfriend, and we have been staying together for 3 years.
I think, what is crucial in a relationship, is that do you understand your thinking, or his/her thinking? What makes you become a vegetarian or a meat-eater? Do you know how to respect each other while acknowledging these differences between you two?
We have always heard that, the way we get along with each other, especially in a romantic relationship, is to communicate, to understand, and to respect each other. This is not just about what you put in your mouth, but is about everything in life. Just think about it - if one of you likes music and the other likes to paint, would you dislike the other person despite the difference? If one of you likes to stay indoor to rest in the weekend, but the other one wants to head out for outdoor activities, are you guys going to break up simply because of this issue? I have always hearing similar things from my friends. Some people, after dating or even getting married, they start to think their partner is not the type of lover that they really want... Then I have to ask, before you starting a relationship, do you have a good understanding of yourself and him/her? Or is it just a rapid feeling and impulse, and finally breaking up because of understanding each other?
結果二：
他是肉食者，但也會跟我吃素。
我男朋友是肉食者，但對吃素沒有抗拒，也喜歡跟我食素，所以約會的初期，他也會主動建議吃素（男生初初都是這樣哄女生的吧），我們的約會也因為一邊去嘗試不同素食餐廳而感覺很有趣。接著， 我也提議可以去一些葷素搭配的餐廳。我們兩個也極喜歡吃上海菜， 他喜歡小籠包、獅子頭等； 我則喜歡冷盤， 例如香菜百頁卷、手拍青瓜、素餃子（大愛！）等，所以我們去上海菜餐館就各點各的餐點；後來我心愛的米線店推出了素湯頭，那裡也成了我倆的飯堂。
那次在巴黎的最後一個晚上，我倆也想試試在街頭的餐廳吃法國菜，他吃他的蛤蜊和勃根地牛肉，我吃我的烤雜菜和薯條—雖然是配菜但也煮得很用心，提提餐廳別用牛油，他們大多會轉用橄欖油代替。美食配上白酒，我倆度過了一個非常浪漫又難忘的晚上。現在我們每到一個新的城市旅行，也會特地找一些有名的素食餐廳，訂好桌子一起吃飯。
Conclusion 2:
He is a meat-eater. But he will have vegetarian meal with me.
My boyfriend is a meat-eater, but he also like to eat all kind of vegetarian food. When we first start dating, he would always suggest to go vegetarian restaurants(Yes, he was, and "has been" so sweet and considerate.), and we always find it interesting trying out different new places. We would also go to some restaurants which offer meat and veggie options, like our favourite Shanghainese cuisine. He always order steamed pork dumplings and braised pork ball, and my favourite are appetizers like coriander vegetables roll, sour cucumber and vegetarian dumplings. Sometimes we also love to go to noodles bar, as they also serve vegetables broth now for noodles too!
One time, the last night during our trip to Paris, we wanted to try eating in local French restaurant on street (like a Parisian!). Some people might think it is impossible for a vegetarian to eat in normal French restaurant; but the key is just to get creative and make smart choices! This is what happened: he had his clams and burgundy beef while I had my grilled vegetables and french fries (although they were side dishes, they are still so delicious). For vegan, just to remember to remind the waiter, most of them would be happy to switch butter to olive oil instead for you. With great food & wine, we had a very romantic and unforgettable evening in Paris. And even now it has became our practice - everytime we travelling to a new city, we would find some famous vegetarian restaurants and try together.
結果三：
葷或素，也不降低戀人分數！
我沒有強迫男友要跟我吃素， 我也沒有嫌棄或是討厭他吃肉。正如一開始所說， 關係裡的所有細節， 不強迫、沒嫌棄，說到底，還是要了解、要尊重，愛情才是你跟對方的連結啊。當然，我還是希望他多吃蔬果，而我也很欣賞他喜歡吃素的心，每一次他陪我去吃素，我也心存感激。
想喜歡的人偶爾跟你吃得健康一點？其實自己下廚也是不錯的選擇。當你「辛辛苦苦」地煮得一手好菜，我相信你的他/她也會欣賞這份心意吧！我們大多會做一道素食主菜，例如冬蔭公雜菜煲；假如男朋友那天想吃一點肉，他會再自己烤三文魚或烤雞柳，然後我們就可以開開心心吃飯了。
Conclusion 3:
It really doesn't matter when you love each other!
I have never forced my boyfriend to be a vegetarian, or having any negative feelings when he eats meat. Just like what I have said, don't judge, open up and try to understand each other. To respect, is always the key to a relationship. Of course, I would still hope that he will eat more fruits and vegetables, and I am always grateful every time he eats vegetarian food with me.
If your partner is a dedicated meat-eater, but you want him to be healthier once in a while, why don't you consider to cook for him/her? A meatless dinner can be plenty satisfying - we love to make Thai style Tom-yum vegetables pot as main(full of different colours and nutritients); sometime when my boyfriend wants to eat some meat, he would prepare fried salmon/ chicken. To prepare a tasty and healthy meal is more easy than you think!Why not give it a go once in awhile?
只要用心經營，一段素與葷、相互尊重的關係其實很有趣。
各位素食男女，不用擔心啦！
As long as you love each other, and with mutual understanding and respect, a relationship between a vegetarian and a omnivore could be very interesting indeed.
Don't worry! :)
Love,
Charlotte
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年夏天六月上架，現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》
This article is included in 《LifeStyle In White》, a book published by Charlotte In White and Enrich Publishing. It is now available at all major bookstores in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Click here for more information: 《LifeStyle In White》
Portrait of Charlotte & Kajeng by Ocean Wong.
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!)
[ Your # on IG ]
《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.
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!
"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。
-
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.
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。
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.
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,
