The Killers have released a new track called ‘Your Side of Town’. Produced by the band with Stuart Price and Shawn Everett, the song marks their first new music since last year’s ‘boy’. Listen to it below.
“Hello everyone,” the Killers wrote in an announcement earlier this week. “With much excitement we present to you ‘Your Side of Town’. It’s got the ghosts of a lot of the synth music that inspired us over the years. And yet, somehow, feels completely our own. Now it’s yours. Turn it up!”
MUBI, the esteemed streaming platform celebrated for showcasing the crème de la crème of cinema, has just revealed their film lineup for September 2023. This month promises a blend of iconic directors such as Werner Herzog and Chilean director Sebastián Silva.
01/09/2023 | The Immigrant | James Gray
02/09/2023 | Vivarium | Lorcan Finnegan
03/09/2023 | Distant Voices, Still Lives | Terence Davies | In Search of Lost Time: Films by Terence Davies
03/09/2023 | The House of Mirth | Terence Davies | In Search of Lost Time: Films by Terence Davies
05/09/2023 | Fitzcarraldo | Werner Herzog | Werner Herzog: Ecstatic Truths
05/09/2023 | Stroszek | Werner Herzog | Werner Herzog: Ecstatic Truths
05/09/2023 | Invincible | Werner Herzog | Werner Herzog: Ecstatic Truths
05/09/2023 | Cobra Verde | Werner Herzog | Werner Herzog: Ecstatic Truths
05/09/2023 | Nosferatu the Vampyre | Werner Herzog | Werner Herzog: Ecstatic Truths
05/09/2023 | Family Romance, LLC | Werner Herzog | Werner Herzog: Ecstatic Truths
07/09/2023 | The Chambermaid Lynn | Ingo Haeb
08/09/2023 | Unfaithful | Adrian Lyne | Bound by Desire: Erotic Thrillers
08/09/2023 | Passion | Brian De Palma | Bound by Desire: Erotic Thrillers
08/09/2023 | Bound | Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski | Bound by Desire: Erotic Thrillers
12/09/2023 | The Goob | Guy Myhill
13/09/2023 | Mekong Hotel | Apichatpong Weerasethakul | To Sleep So as to Dream: Three Films by Apichatpong Weerasethakul
15/09/2023 | Life Kills Me | Sebastián Silva | Spotlight on Sebastián Silva
15/09/2023 | Rotting in the Sun | Sebastián Silva | Spotlight on Sebastián Silva
17/09/2023 | Two Lovers | James Gray
19/09/2023 | Cemetery of Splendour | Apichatpong Weerasethakul | To Sleep So as to Dream: Three Films by Apichatpong Weerasethakul
20/09/2023 | Olivia | Jacqueline Audry | Boarding School
20/09/2023 | The Cowboy and the Frenchman | David Lynch | Short Films Big Names
22/09/2023 | China Girl | Abel Ferrara | Abel Ferrara: A Double Bill
20/09/2023 | Innocence | Lucile Hadžihalilović | Boarding School
23/09/2023 | Tomasso | Abel Ferrara | Abel Ferrara: A Double Bill
26/09/2023 | Khrustalyov, My Car! | Aleksei German
27/09/2023 | Nothing Sacred | William A. Wellman
30/09/2023 | Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives | Apichatpong Weerasethakul | To Sleep So as to Dream: Three Films by Apichatpong Weerasethakul
Gareth Donkin is surprisingly studious. The twenty-three-year-old’s debut album Welcome Home is an immaculate, vibrant ode to classic R&B and soul music, pulling from the likes of Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, and Jamiroquai. To craft it, he looked back at what worked from the music that defined that era, whether songwriting or a production pattern, which he’s done since starting university four years ago. It’s a shock when he tells me the record was produced mostly in his bedroom, its lush and atmospheric sound so natural-sounding but likely painstaking to create. On Instagram and in music videos, there’s a permanent huge, goofy grin on his face, owing to the fact that music, for him, isn’t a key to break through to the industry but a therapeutic source of joy — the record giddy and fun, but never at the sake of sincerity. Welcome home indeed.
We caught up with Gareth Donkin in the latest edition of our Artist Spotlight series to talk about being inspired by the past, performing while recording, and the allure of cheesy love songs.
Congratulations on your debut album! How are you feeling with it so close to being out?
Thank you so much. It feels quite surreal, to be honest. I’ve been working on this project for a very long time. In fact, I came up with the name and idea for the album before I’d even put pen to paper. I just wanted it to reflect where my head has been or where it will be whilst learning more and getting inspired and influenced by different musicians. And it is just that, I took my time but really wanted to give it absolutely everything I could, but in an organic way. Not just sitting down and writing this album just for the sake of it. It’s happened over the past three to four years and I’ve been lucky enough to work with some incredibly talented musicians and people I met whilst I was at university at Leeds, and people who I’ve met remotely through social media. There’s people from all over who are featured on this album in some way, and I’m very grateful to those people who have inspired me.
The most striking thing about Welcome Home is how wonderfully entrenched in the past it is, while still feeling so new. Did you grow up around this kind of music, and how did it influence the record?
Yeah, I grew up part of a very musical family. I was listening to the likes of Jamiroquai, Michael Jackson, all of the classics that really inspired me at that age. I wasn’t interested in the radio, what was happening now, which maybe is a little close-minded. There are definitely artists I love that are just killing it from now. But I personally have always been so engrossed in the aspects of classic songwriting, which I don’t really hear as much of, now. Really lush harmonies and cheesy songwriting as well. I just love that. And I was lucky enough to have parents that put me onto the best stuff.
I took a look at your “Lifted” Spotify playlist as well, and it’s basically nothing from this decade at all.
I feel like a bit of an old soul. I’m not so ignorant to new music coming out that suddenly draws from the same places, but I went down an absolute rabbit hole while I was at university, especially in lockdown, I took so much in and spent that time studying and researching and going down all of these music paths inspired me in this project. Everything I was listening to when making the project is on that playlist, which feels quite special.
It really feels like a distinguishable thing because we’re still in the midst of this older-school music resurgence of funk, soul, disco. But some of them feel as if they’re putting on a costume — your music honestly feels plucked right from this era. Was it difficult to achieve this?
It took a lot of time. I spent a lot of time studying the sounds and quality of production from the 70s, 80s, 90s, really honing in on the different sounds and character of those songs, like Stevie Wonder and Quincy Jones. It took a lot of listening, patience, and research — I was very curious as to what gear they were using and what instruments gave it that feeling, that timeless quality. That’s what I’ve been trying to nail. It took a lot of time, love, and interest in how things were being done in that time.
Your voice is also one of the strongest assets on the whole album. At so many points, I’m hearing Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars, Prince — it’s a little eerie!
It’s really just what I’ve been influenced by. We have a similar range. I can’t hit all of those MJ notes, I’ll be real. When I first got into singing my tracks when I was about 17, it’s kinda just what came out, felt natural to me.
I also wanted to talk to you because these songs almost sound like performances. Not to sound corny, but it really does feel like you have a smile across your face while recording. Is this a correct read?
Yeah, it was so fun for me writing all of these tunes. The joy I felt after coming up with an idea that felt so right and good, it was very real. Even a song where I’m diving into heartache, the catharsis I felt after finishing a song, it was such a relief. I could sit back and feel proud of what I made. It was difficult writing and realizing the idea, but I’m so proud of it and this whole album. For instance, the final track, ‘De La Soul’, was me and my friends in our first-year university dorm having the greatest time, trying things out, literally finding random objects in the room like a hairbrush and scraping it to make music, getting really imaginative. That’s what this album is to me. It doesn’t follow a linear order, it’s just me and what I’ve explored, the parts of music I love the most, and getting creative.
It totally comes through. Listening to ‘Something Different’ and ‘Whenever’, particularly, I was just like, “Oh my God, this guy is having a great time.”
I was! I really was, just belting some stupid notes in my bedroom and hoping my neighbors don’t complain. Ironically, the lyrics to ‘Something Different’ are actually a bit sad. The idea was to make a sad song disguised as this dancy, feel-good thing. It’s just what felt right. Personally, I’m drawn to upbeat music anyway.
So you mention that you lived in six different places in two years. How did that shape not only the inspiration of the album, but the recording and writing process?
It was six different bedrooms I was studying in in Leeds, in the north of England. Then when COVID hit, I was working from home with my parents in France. If anything, being able to travel and being in different places while recording these different ideas was very inspiring and marked the different points I was at in my musical journey. Producing on my laptop was a constant, though, and that’s why Welcome Home felt nice to me as a title. This has been my real home, my source of comfort and therapy. I love making music and it was always there, despite moving around as much as I did in that time.
This year you released your first two music videos, for ‘GEEK OUT!’ and ‘Whenever’. What were the filming processes like for these?
They were both shot on the same day. We were in a converted loft studio that John Liwag works out of, who directed and shot the music videos. We really just went with the flow. I worked with these two amazing stylists, Christiana and Bernadette, who helped me with the look and the fashion. We went ahead and shot all sorts of different things behind these backgrounds, we had some disco balls to play with, shooting whatever we could in the time we had. Fortunately, the footage turned out great and I’m really happy with the final product. And the ‘GEEK OUT!’ video was shot on the rooftop of the studio. It was extremely hot. Very very hot afternoon, but a very good one.
So talking about the actual record, romance is the number one topic. ‘Nothing We Can’t Get Through’ is about a tough time with a partner, Whenever’ is a flirty declaration of solidarity, and ‘By Your Side’ and ‘Falling for You’ are pure romantic admissions. Why do you think you come back to this topic, and does the person you’re singing about play into it?
It was really just a lot of what I was inspired to write about, at the time of making these tunes. The whole love and cheesy thing is something I’ve always loved. I’d say a couple of those were specifically about someone, where I was writing love songs because I love to do it. It’s a big part of that era I love to draw from.
There’s also a super fun collaboration with Jus Lovehall on ‘Don’t Turn The Music Down’. How did that song and partnership come to be?
Jus and I met on Instagram in about 2019, and we worked on a song together, ‘Tropics’ with another producer, Foolie $URFIN, on their joint album. We respected one another and clicked, and we really bonded over the love of old-school music, merging it with hip-hop and R&B. There was a really [strong] connection between the three of us, and Jus and I have been wanting to do something together for a while. This song was just a great fit. Jus killed the verse, and really poured his heart out. It’s one of my favorites on the album. It was great to work with him on something again, and I love and respect him so much. He’s got an amazing musical mind, great at writing lyrics.
You also say that you can chart a whole relationship in these songs, from the spark in the beginning to “surrendering yourself to them completely.” Do you think seeing this story down in a written form changes your perspective of it?
I suppose now that it’s all there, about to go out, and because I made these songs so long ago, I can now sit back and look at it in hindsight and think, “What are the weak points I anchor myself and improve on the next album?” Now that it’s done and it is what it is, I do feel like I have more of a perspective of where I see the next record going.
Have you started thinking about a second album or a direction you might want to head there?
I want to take it so much further. I don’t just want to be bound to my bedroom or home studios anymore. What I was going for with this album was to get it as close to [a live] sound as I could in my bedroom. But now, I just want to be in the studio. I want to get stuck in and record. I just hope to build on this first record — this is just the introduction.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.
Ariel Engle has shared another single from her sophomore album as La Force, XO SKELETON, which arrives September 29 via Secret City Records. It follows previous entries ‘condition of us’ and ‘october’. The accompanying video was directed by Ali Vanderkruyk, Engle herself, and Caely White. Check it out below.
“How do you continue to give and receive love when the person you love is dead?” Engle reflected in a press release. “It’s about loving into a void. It’s about loving and communing the spirit of a dead atheist who didn’t believe in spirit.”
“‘Fireball Whiskey’ touches on using alcohol to navigate my anxiety, and also just realising over time that caring for your mental health is so important and will affect the way you can love and be with people,” McMahon explained in a statement. “I think I’m afraid of change and didn’t know that about myself, but the process of writing this one helped bring it to light.”
Of the video, which she also edited, McMahon added: “I’ve never edited a video before, but I used this Handycam footage taken by my friends to try and tell a visual story of dancing and swaying myself out of the darkness. Travelling to this mountain range outside of Ojai felt like visiting a place where all my silly little worries and bruises could be transformed into something open and time could be suspended and I could empty everything out again, and that’s the reward for leaving behind what I loved but wasn’t right for me.”
Australia’s outback is home to a distinctive style of clothing that reflects both the rugged practicality of the land and the timeless appeal of tradition. Australian cowboy clothing, often embodied by the iconic Akubra hats, has transcended its origins and carved a niche in modern fashion trends. This article explores the fascinating journey of Australian authentic style, from its historical roots to its enduring influence on contemporary fashion.
Historical Roots and Influences
The origins of Australian cowboy clothing can be traced back to the mid-19th century when European settlers and pioneers faced the challenging conditions of the outback. The clothing worn by these early settlers was not just a fashion choice; it was a necessity to withstand the harsh climate, protect from sun exposure, and provide durability for rugged work. Influenced by both British and indigenous Australian styles, these outfits gradually evolved to meet the unique demands of the land.
Wide-Brimmed Hat: A Symbol of Australian Identity
Central to the Australian cowboy style is the iconic Akubra hat. With its distinctive wide brim and sturdy construction, the Akubra has become synonymous with the Australian identity. Originally designed for harsh outback conditions, these Australian cowboy hats offer protection from the scorching sun, rain, and wind, making them a practical choice for those working in rural environments. Over time, the Akubras have transitioned from a utilitarian accessory to a cultural symbol that embodies the spirit of the bush and the values of resilience and independence.
Influence on Contemporary Fashion
While Australian cowboy clothing was born out of necessity, its influence on contemporary fashion cannot be ignored. The rugged yet stylish aesthetic of cowboy attire has found its way into mainstream fashion trends, capturing the imagination of designers, celebrities, and everyday individuals alike. Combining traditional and modern elements creates a distinctive and versatile look that resonates with people around the world.
Designers and fashion houses have drawn inspiration from Australian cowboy clothing, incorporating elements such as distressed denim, leather accents, and wide-brimmed hats into their collections. This infusion of ruggedness into haute couture has redefined the boundaries of fashion, blurring the lines between casual and sophisticated attire.
Additionally, celebrities have played an important role in popularising the Australian cowboy style. From Hollywood actors to musicians, many have been spotted donning Akubra hats and cowboy boots, effectively turning them into fashion statements that transcend geographical boundaries. This international embrace of the Australian cowboy style proves its universal and captivating appeal.
Modern Interpretations and Subcultures
In addition to influencing mainstream fashion, the Australian cowboy style has given rise to various subcultures and interpretations. One such example is the urban cowboy trend, where city dwellers adopt elements of cowboy attire to create a distinctive urban-rural fusion. This trend celebrates the contrast between rugged practicality and urban sophistication, resulting in a contemporary yet authentic style.
Similarly, social media has played an important role in shaping modern interpretations of Australian cowboy culture. Influencers and fashion enthusiasts showcase their personal takes on this iconic look, sharing outfit inspirations and styling tips with a global audience. The democratisation of fashion through platforms like Instagram and TikTok has allowed individuals to experiment with Australian cowboy clothing and put their unique spin on it.
Gender Fluidity and Inclusivity
One of the remarkable aspects of the Australian cowboy style is its gender-neutral and inclusive nature. While it originated as practical attire for male pioneers and ranchers, it has evolved to transcend gender boundaries. Women have seamlessly incorporated cowboy hats, denim, and leather into their wardrobes, contributing to a fashion movement that challenges traditional gender norms. This inclusivity not only expands the reach of the Australian cowboy style but also reflects the evolving values of modern society.
Wardrobe Tips for Embracing Australian Cowboy Style
Incorporating cowboy style into your wardrobe can be a fun and unique way to add a touch of rugged charm and authenticity to your look. Here are some tips on how you can seamlessly integrate cowboy elements into your outfits:
Start with Accessories
Begin by incorporating accessories that are emblematic of cowboy style. The most iconic accessory is the cowboy hat, particularly the wide-brimmed Akubra. Make sure your hat matches your style and face shape. Additionally, consider leather belts with intricate buckles, bolo ties, and rustic jewellery to add subtle cowboy flair to your outfit.
Denim and Leather
Denim and leather are key components of Australian cowboy attire. Opt for well-fitting denim jeans or a denim skirt as the foundation of your outfit. Pair these with leather shoes, which can be either classic high-top boots or more modern interpretations. Leather jackets or vests can also be fantastic additions for colder weather and add an edgy touch to your ensemble.
Western-Inspired Tops
Blouses and shirts with Western-inspired details can evoke cowboy aesthetics. Look for garments with embroidered yokes, pearl snaps, and puffed sleeves. Chambray shirts or plaid button-downs can also capture the essence of the Australian cowboy style while remaining versatile enough for various occasions.
Earthy Colour Palette
Embrace an earthy colour palette that resonates with the natural hues of the outback. Think warm tones like browns, tans, and rust, as well as deeper shades of denim blue. Mixing and matching these colours will help create a cohesive and authentic cowboy-inspired look.
Layering and Textures
The layering technique adds depth and dimension to any outfit. Combine different textures, such as a knit sweater with a denim jacket or a suede vest over a plaid shirt. This layering not only adds visual interest but also pays homage to the practicality and adaptability of cowboy clothing.
Modern Twists
Put your own spin on the Australian cowboy style by mixing it with modern fashion trends. For instance, you can pair a cowboy hat with a flowy sundress for a whimsical contrast. Experiment with incorporating cowboy elements into streetwear, like wearing a bolo tie with a graphic tee and sneakers.
Balance and Minimalism
To avoid looking overly costume-like, aim for a balanced approach. Incorporate a few cowboy-inspired elements into your outfit rather than going all out. For example, pair a cowboy belt with a contemporary dress or wear cowboy boots with skinny jeans for a subtle yet stylish look.
Confidence is Key
Ultimately, confidence is the most crucial accessory when embracing any style. Rock your cowboy-inspired outfit with self-assurance, and you’ll exude the charm and charisma associated with this iconic look.
Remember, the essence of the Australian cowboy style lies in its authenticity and versatility. Whether you’re channelling the spirit of the outback or putting your own spin on tradition, cowboy elements can spice up any look.
Conclusion
Australian cowboy style’s journey from functional workwear to a globally recognised fashion trend speaks to its enduring appeal and adaptability. As it continues to evolve and influence contemporary fashion, it also reflects broader societal shifts towards sustainability, inclusivity, and the celebration of authenticity. Whether donned for practical purposes, as a fashion statement, or as a nod to tradition, Australian cowboy clothing remains a symbol of timeless charm and cultural significance.
Sunglasses transcend mere fashion, serving as a vital protection against ultraviolet radiation for the eyes and the delicate skin of the eyelids, preventing premature ageing. If you find yourself constantly squinting against the relentless sun’s rays, consider embracing polarised sunglasses. These lenses not only shield you from harmful UV radiation but also diminish glare and alleviate eye fatigue. Within this compilation, we present six distinguished brands of polarised eyewear renowned for their effectiveness and reliability.
RAY-BAN: Timeless Elegance and Versatility
A quintessential icon in the realm of stylish eyewear, Ray-Ban remains a timeless choice. The brand features four prominent collections of polarised sunglasses, encompassing aviator, wayfarer, club master, and round styles. Yet, other designs are also at your disposal.
Combine these offerings with a plethora of customisable options, and you’re presented with an almost boundless array of styles that make the task of selecting just one or two an arduous decision. These sunglasses eliminate glare, enhance image clarity, mitigate eye strain, and heighten contrast—a definitive addition that augments their chic allure.
OAKLEY: Performance Meets Style
Speaking of choices, Oakley emerges as a brand that seamlessly marries polarisation’s functionality with performance-oriented design catering to a diverse lifestyle. Arguably the foremost producer of athletic sunglasses, Oakley is equally adept at delivering traditional, contemporary aesthetics.
Their HD polarised lenses, originally crafted for elite athletes seeking respite from glare, bestow the same benefits upon a spectrum ranging from sports enthusiasts to sun-worshippers.
MAUI JIM: Vivid Colours and Enhanced Perception
Inspired by the sun-kissed shores of Maui, which lend the brand its moniker, Maui Jim excels in crafting polarised eyewear that transcends convention through its PolarizedPlus2 technology. This innovation surpasses the role of glare and UV radiation protection, vividly enhancing the world’s true hues in intricate detail, regardless of your location.
The palette of colours is equally enticing. Maui Rose, with its subtle pink tones, proves ideal for high-octane activities, while HCL Bronze stands as an excellent choice for day-to-day wear. Neutral Gray offers peak protection against blazing sunlight, while Maui HT amplifies contrast and colour vibrancy in low-light settings and on the golf course. Furthermore, Maui Jim sunglasses exhibit resilience against scratches, oil, and water, making them a trusty companion for any adventure.
NATIVE EYEWEAR: Unrivalled Clarity and Contrast
Native Eyewear ventures far beyond the ordinary, producing lenses that redefine innovation and sophistication. Among the most advanced polarised options available, these lenses excel in blocking up to four times more infrared light while heightening UV protection.
By meticulously reducing and selectively filtering blue light, they offer unparalleled contrast and optimum visual clarity. Native Eyewear seamlessly combines high-performance styles with contemporary trends, ensuring that no individual perceives the world through ordinary lenses.
SWITCH: Adaptive Versatility and Instant Style
Switch’s interchangeable sunwear introduces a revolution in sunglass versatility. The ingenious magnetic interchange system allows instantaneous lens changes, secured by robust high-energy magnets. Beyond bolstering performance during water sports or snow activities, these polarised lenses afford comprehensive eye protection.
Switch’s diverse collection encompasses full-rim, half-rim, and rimless designs, providing an abundance of incentives to switch up your eyewear.
KAENON: Cutting-Edge Technology and Uncompromised Clarity
Kaenon commands attention for a compelling rationale. The company ingeniously introduced its SR-91 technology, addressing the limitations of existing lens materials. This innovation guarantees clarity, complete UV safeguarding, and impact resistance – all enveloped within an ultra-lightweight, rugged frame that eradicates glare.
Ideal for athletes, professional commitments, and daily life, these sunglasses encompass all your desires while maintaining an elegant simplicity.
COSTA DEL MAR: Coastal Charm and Optical Excellence
Adding to the roster of exceptional brands, Costa Del Mar captures the essence of coastal living in its polarised sunglasses. Renowned for its exceptional optical clarity, Costa’s lenses are designed for adventure and exploration. With a focus on preserving the vibrant colours of the outdoors, Costa Del Mar sunglasses are the perfect companion for fishing, boating, or simply soaking in nature’s beauty. Beyond protection, these sunglasses offer a window into a world where every moment is crystal-clear and vivid.
Explore the World of Polarised Glasses
Polarisation, a captivating natural phenomenon, revolves around the absorption of light waves that bounce off horizontal surfaces. While the sun emits non-polarised rays, their reflection upon such surfaces gives birth to polarised light. This light manifests to the human eye as a shimmering glare that disrupts clarity, obscures visibility, and provokes eye irritation.
Unlike simple sunlight, glare poses a more intricate predicament, possessing the potential to momentarily blind and discomfort the eyes. This predicament, however, finds its solution in specialised eyewear donning a polarising coating.
Unlocking the Benefits of Polarised Glasses
If you’re still sceptical about the need for polarised eyewear, consider these paramount advantages that underscore their value:
Impeccable shield against ultraviolet radiation
Visual serenity: alleviation of stress and eye fatigue
Crystal-clear vision: enhanced contrast and colour perception
Guardian of tender eye surroundings against sun’s perils
Unique Attributes of Polarised Eyewear
Beyond their primary benefits, polarised glasses reveal distinctive qualities you should be aware of:
Subtle dimming of LCD screen images: smartphones, tablets, TV
Enhanced detail perception: revealing textures like car windshields
Elevated investment: reflecting quality and performance
Potential challenge in reading traffic signs
Distinguishing Polarisation Authenticity
A straightforward method to assess polarisation involves an LCD-equipped device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Gaze at the device screen through the lens of polarised glasses: a subtle darkening of the display should occur. Upon a 90-degree rotation of the device, the screen should plunge into complete dimness, sealing the authenticity of the polarisation.
Navigating the Selection of Polarised Glasses
Choosing polarised eyewear necessitates a similar approach to that of regular sunglasses. Consider the quality of materials, manufacturer reputation, degree of ocular safeguarding, and stylistic design. Optimal alignment with facial contours enhances the overall look, but remember, personal preference and individual style should remain the guiding forces in this selection.
In Conclusion
In your journey to find the perfect pair of polarised sunglasses, there are many brands offering a unique blend of innovation, style, and functionality, ensuring that your eyes stay protected from the sun’s harsh rays. Whether you’re an athlete seeking peak performance, an adventurer craving vibrant landscapes, or a fashionista looking for a reliable companion for daily journeys, polarised glasses cater to your every need. So, as you sift through designs and features, remember that you’re not just selecting eyewear; you’re investing in a gateway to a world where visual excellence and unmatched comfort converge.
Nail art, like fashion, follows its own trends, allowing you to effortlessly enhance your nails with intricate patterns, captivating designs, and a mix of colours and techniques. Each year, skilled artisans reveal versatile and flawless designs that perfectly match any outfit, igniting excitement among trend-conscious individuals to proudly display these exquisite nail art creations.
What’s Hot in Manicures in 2023?
The 2023 manicure trends, guided by expert nail artists, encompass both timeless traditions and innovative styles, catering to short nails, subtle designs, and classic shades. Let’s explore the world of manicure fashion designs for this season.
Micro French Manicure
The inception of the French manicure dates back to the 1970s when a prominent Hollywood director sought the expertise of Jeff Pink, the visionary behind ORLY nail polish, in devising a technique to grace actresses’ nails, ensuring compatibility with a myriad of film outfits. This endeavour yielded the inception of the Original French Manicure.
Recently, the French manicure experienced a triumphant resurgence, with the latest iteration sporting an even finer tip strip, exuding an air of subtlety and practicality. Take inspiration from Dior and Simone Rocha runway displays.
Stiletto Nail Design
While the micro French manicure embraces rounded and natural aesthetics, stiletto nails, deriving from the Italian term “stiletto”, meaning “dagger,” counterintuitively feature elongated and pointed shapes. However, this year’s prevailing advice from nail experts leans toward opting for shorter stiletto nail variants, a more pragmatic choice.
Shades of Nude
While attention-grabbing chrome manicures and marbled nail designs dominate social media feeds, the ever-relevant beige hues assert their prominence in 2023. The allure of minimalist design, executed with understated neutral polishes, lies in their innate compatibility with any outfit and their enduring appeal, which surpasses that of vibrant tones.
Emphasis on Nail Accents
Ranging from rhinestones to glitters, matte to glossy finishes, textural accents remain in vogue this year. Of the more unconventional trends, nail piercing and jewellery-like embellishments add a touch of elegance.
Gothic Nail Art
As anticipated, the Gothic wave, propelled by the success of the “Wednesday” series, permeates fashion runways, extending its influence to manicure trends. Celebrities such as Hailey Bieber often opt for bold black hues.
However, embracing this trend need not entail exclusive adherence to black; inspiration can be drawn from the Versace, and Schiaparelli showcases, offering a broader spectrum of options.
“Rich Girl Manicure”
Jennifer Lopez spearheaded the “rich girl nails” trend, with nail artist Tom Bachik at the helm. Followers of this trend, including Nicola Peltz and Lily Collins, attribute its appeal to skilful shade selection—specifically, creamy tones with a subtle grey undertone.
Barbicore
Hot pink shades, enlivening our wardrobes, now grace the realm of nail beauty trends. Barbicore-style manicures, noted in the displays of Batsheva, Peter Do, and others, epitomise this vibrant hue’s ascent.
Chrome Nails
The legacy of “glazed” nails, initially showcased by Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, and Lizzo, continues to resonate. This trend, encompassing a spectrum of silver, bronze, metallic, and milky white hues, sustains its captivating allure.
Manicure Colours for 2023
The array of fashionable manicure colours in 2023 is delightfully diverse, making the task of pinpointing overarching trends a real challenge. Nude tones, captivating greens, various shades of pink, lilac, and blue, along with jewel-like hues, chocolate, coffee, and wine-inspired tones, compose a veritable kaleidoscope of choices. Check out the SIMPLY nail polish collection for inspiration.
The top shades of the season include:
Pistachio
Lilac
Mint
Deep emerald
Milky white
Blue
Pale blue
Olive
Pale yellow
Short Nail Manicures in 2023
As ever, the timeless elegance of the French manicure resonates beautifully with short nails. A contemporary twist for 2023 involves opting for a milky or grey base, although traditional nude shades remain a steadfast choice. Graphic motifs, such as angular “smile” patterns and combinations of glossy and matte textures, inject modernity into this classic style.
Thin lines and abstract marble designs harmonise exquisitely with short nails, embracing minimalism to its fullest. Gradient effects and stamping techniques also maintain their relevance, either in tandem or as standalone elements.
Those seeking the perfect short nail manicure can adopt a “different hands” approach—crafting distinct designs for each hand. With the right choice of shades and designs, you are sure to achieve the most fashionable 2023 manicure.
Manicure Trends for Long Nails in 2023
Long nails offer an expansive canvas for artistic exploration, allowing for a diverse range of designs. Among the captivating novelties of 2023 manicure trends, an alluring trend involves imitating various natural textures—ranging from wood and precious stones to marble and amber—infusing nails with a distinctive look. The opulent charm of rubbed manicures, harnessing metallic, pearly, or mirrored effects through the application of powders, adds an enchanting dimension to this season’s celebration.
For long nails, a refined selection of deep, noble tones and intricate painting techniques is advised, as overly dark or vibrant shades may be better suited for shorter nails. The synergy of gradient effects with stamping or the fusion of rubbing techniques with rhinestone embellishments can yield captivating results. Personal creativity takes centre stage as you amalgamate the myriad of 2023 manicure trends into a uniquely expressive statement.
Top Design Concepts for Fall-Winter 2023-2024
Modern nail art knows no boundaries in terms of combining techniques, emphasising the paramount importance of maintaining a neat and harmonious nail aesthetic. By selecting the ideal manicure, you showcase your appreciation for beauty, fashion, style, and impeccable taste. It is advisable to stay attuned to the latest fashion currents, as this practice consistently contributes to the enhancement of your overall image.
The contemporary landscape of fashion underscores a preference for simplicity and accessibility, allowing beauty enthusiasts of all backgrounds to exude comfort and style. Accordingly, complex nail designs replete with excessive decoration are giving way to more understated and refined aesthetics.
Foremost design concepts this season:
Abstraction: Playful patterns such as dotted motifs, artful strokes, seamless gradients, splotches, and randomly placed elements characterise the abstract trend, offering an avant-garde expression.
Animal print: From zebra and leopard to tiger, giraffe, turtle, and snake, animal prints elevate autumn-winter manicures to new heights. Contrasting these prints with deep or nude shades enhances their sophistication.
Foil embellishments: The prevailing metallic allure of the autumn-winter season welcomes foil accents in gold, silver, and an array of colours. Their integration into complex, multifaceted designs seamlessly transitions from daytime to evening looks.
Monochromatic sophistication: A flawlessly executed monochromatic manicure remains timeless and stylish regardless of the season or shifting fashion landscapes.
Negative space elegance: Embracing the minimalist spirit of the season, a “naked” manicure boasts a strikingly concise yet chic aesthetic.
Timeless French: The enduring classic of a French manicure retains its relevance and allure.
Multicolour expressions: Unconventional gradient techniques, applying varied hues to individual nails, harmoniously blend multiple seasonal shades into a cohesive and dynamic ensemble.
In your pursuit of the ultimate manicure, you not only express your affinity for beauty and style but also celebrate the dynamic realm of contemporary fashion. By staying attuned to the nuances of these trends, you ensure that your image, appearance, and nails consistently reflect your inherent elegance and sophistication.
Raymond Weil has launched the freelancerDiver 2775 collection. Taking inspiration from the world of Wing Foil. Raymond Weil has partnered with Titouan Galea, a three-time Wing Foil world champion, to celebrate this new launch. Through this collaboration, the brand has explored the champion’s world, remarkable skills, and the mindset that propelled him to success.
All four versions of the watch offer improved underwater visibility with a gradient dial transitioning from a darker hue at 6 o’clock to a lighter tone above. The full steel version of the freelancerdiver 2775 is available with a 5-row stainless steel bracelet or a pierced rubber strap, while the two-tone models exclusively offer a 5-row stainless steel bracelet.
The freelancer Diver 2775 is available now and ranges from £1,995 to £2,195.
Mitski has shared two new songs ‘Star’ and ‘Heaven’, which are lifted from her forthcoming album The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We. They follow lead single ‘Bug Like an Angel’, which we named one of our songs of the week. Mitski worked with arranger and conductor Drew Erickson and a full orchestra at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles to bring the new songs to life. Take a listen below.
The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, the follow-up to 2022’s Laurel Hell, is due to arrive September 15 via Dead Oceans. Mitski has today announced a string of European and UK acoustic performances titled Amateur Mistake; find those dates below, too.
Sat Oct 7 – Edinburgh, UK – Queens Hall
Mon Oct 9 – Manchester, UK – Albert Hall
Wed Oct 11 – London, UK – Union Chapel
Sat Oct 14 – Berlin, DE – Babylon
Mon Oct 16 – Utrecht, NL – Tivoli / Vredenburg
Fri Oct 20 – Paris, FR – Le Trianon
