HOW HOTELS USE SCENT TO CREATE ATMOSPHERE

Hotels use the power of smell to help tell a story. The smell is closely connected to the brain’s limbic system, where emotional processing takes place. It should be no surprise then that many hotels around the world have in recent years sought to harness the power of smell by creating their own signature scents that “represent their identity". Whenever a guest arrives at their building, it is the business’s job to make their hotel more than just a building. Even if it is just for a night, they want that building to make their guests feel happy and comfortable. So, by scent and fragrance, the hotels can now directly monitor how they are perceived and remembered in the eye of their guests. Different hotels have different vibes they want to give their guests. Some want to come off as old, elegant buildings fit for the wealthy. They want their guests to feel pampered during their stay. Others, want to give off the feeling of homey comfort, as if you were arriving home, rather than out spending the night in an unknown city. Hotels use specific scents to help create the atmosphere they’re seeking to convey, as decoration convey a particular feelings. An artfully placed display of fruit or the right bouquet of flowers goes a long way in communicating to guests. However, just as important as those visual touches, the hotel scent goes a long way in determining whether or not a hotel can portray the vibe they are going for. If, for example, they want you to feel at home in their hotel, they might use a soft mix of the scents of roses and tobacco. Whatever the scent is, it is often used in candles or sprays to scent the air, as well as in soaps and lotions. Their goal is not to overpower you with the hotel scent, but to subtly use it to convey a message– a message you will hopefully remember and connect with next time you’re thinking about booking a hotel. 

Taking the idea further, some hotels even offer products featuring their signature scents such as home fragrances, room sprays and candles which guests can purchase for their own use and thus, further connect with guests, even when they are at home. With staycations, more and more people are willing to purchase products to renovate their house or room in order to turn it into a hotel so that they can feel like they are travelling and staying at their favorite hotel. Today’s consumers are increasingly seeking pleasurable and memorable experiences that are unique and authentic, which led to a new term of “experiential marketing”. In the tourism field, experiential marketers seek to create “direct and valuable connections between organizations and their guests”, for instance by providing sensory experiences that trigger positive emotions. Using ambient scent may be a way for hotels to create “memorable experiences for guests” while also building brand loyalty. So, I you want the feelings those hotel scents convey without hefting the cost of a room for a night, you can turn your own home into a luxury staycation! You can purchase a hotel scent to spritz around your house, making it smell just like the fancy Weston Hotels or the luxuriously homey St. Regis. 

Personally, my favourite hotel-signature scent is one bought at the "Hotel Le Petit Palais", a beautiful Belle-Époque hotel on the Cimiez hill in Nice,

belonging to the Authentic Hotels. This hotel collection acquired an exclusive olfactory signature by Pierre Bourdon, one of the greatest perfumers in the world, an original "tailor-made" fragrance which is worthy of the luxury universe inspired by these hotels, a wonderful evocation of Grasse's flower fields fragrance, with the freshness of sea breeze and bathing sunshine. And in such an uncertain period for any travel projects, I can at least profit of this exclusive ambience scent to pleasantly dream about some of my favourite destinations by means of sophisticated olfactory suggestions... waiting for better days to come!

A CLOSE LOOK AT MY BRAND NEW CÉLINE TRIOMPHE BAG, THE QUINTESSENCE OF PARISIAN "ALLURE".

Here is one more post dedicated to a French bag. It's been almost three years since the Céline Triomphe Bag popped up on Celine’s website along with the rest of Hedi Slimane’s debut collection for the brand. In that time the bag has slowly, but steadily found its way into the hands of several style stars, who have been spotted with the Triomphe bag in tow. When these VIP ladies take notice, so do we, and while this isn't the first Céline by Hedi Slimane bag we’ve lusted after, it also likely won’t be the last. 

The Triomphe logo is rooted in Celine’s history and the story goes a little something like this: Céline Vipiana’s car broke down in Paris, right in front of the Arc de Triomphe, and she was inspired by the chain that surrounds the iconic monument. The inside of the double links represent two Cs and Celine’s founder immediately adopted it as a house emblem, using it on bags, jewelry, in prints and on shoes. The iconic house motif was adopted and reimagined by new creative director Hedi Slimane, appearing as the finishing touch on a classic silhouette, which we now know as the Triomphe Bag. Lined in lambskin, both sizes of the Triomphe bag contain a separated interior for maximum organization, as well two interior pockets—a slit pocket and a zippered pocket. The strap is designed to be worn either over the shoulder or crossbody as it’s adjustable. 

The larger size is the less eligible, 24.5 cm L x 18.5 cm H x 7.5 cm D.

The medium size works well for the everyday, though it's a bit on the smaller end for an everyday bag with overall dimensions of  22.5 cm L x 16.5 cm H x 7.5 cm D. 

The teen size is perfect for the mini-bag lover with dimensions of 18.5 cm L x 14 cm H x 6 cm D.

The Nano size is 16.5 cm L x 11.5 H cm x 5 cm D. 

As for the colour and leather type selections, I chose the medium version of the bag, in classic black, smooth calfskin leather, but the model is available also in beautiful neutral, pastel, or vibrant shades, as well as in exotic skins or Triomphe logo canvas + tan leather. 

Anyway, what I like most of this bag is its quintessential Parisian "allure", which inspires me unexpected, imaginary journeys to the "Ville Lumière", in a period of so many travel restrictions.

YSL SUNSET BAG, A CROSSBODY WITH MANY PLUS POINTS.

The YSL Sunset bag is one of the most beautiful bags designed by Saint Laurent, and a favourite  one in my closet too. During this pandemic year, with alternative periods of social-distancing and smart-working, I've been prone to set aside large, roomy totes in favour of smaller crossbody bags, which I find perfect combined to sneakers, when I go out temporarily for errands, then go back to my home-office. 

1) YSL SUNSET BAG'S PLUS POINTS:

A plus point of the YSL Sunset bag, compared to other crossbody bags, is the fact that it is pretty spacey. This is due to the gussets at the side which also add a nice touch to the overall design of the bag, and to the fact that, on the inside, it is made up of two compartments – one open central pocket and a smaller slot pocket at the front; there is also an external slot pocket at the back of the bag, on the outside. The bag is closed via a magnetic snap on the flap, and features the standard interlaced YSL initials on the front in metal hardware, as well as a leather encased keyring on the side. The Sunset bag has an extremely sleek and elegant feel to it. It has a chain and leather shoulder strap, which is adjustable, thus allowing it to be worn in multiple ways – as a long shoulder bag, a crossbody bag, or doubled up as a shorter handbag. Carriers of the YSL Sunset have confirmed its high durability with no visible scratches after several months of use. It is worth keeping in mind, however, that the larger size of the bag can get pretty heavy due to the chain strap and the amount of items that the bag can hold – but that really depends on what you plan on carrying.

2) YSL SUNSET BAG AVAILABLE COLOURS AND MATERIALS.

When it comes to colours and materials, the Saint Laurent Sunset collection certainly has a lot to choose from. Aside from the classic smooth calfskin leather version, the Sunset bag has been released in a range of finishes and materials including shiny patent leather, velvet, metallic laminated and crocodile embossed. You can also take your pick when it comes to the metal finishing of the chain strap and YSL initial hardware. The YSL Sunset bag is available in an array of colours, from neutral black, white and beige to more playful colours like red and green. Personally, I chose a chic medium version in black crocodile embossed with edgy silver hardware, which perfectly matches with my go-to black and silver star sneakers.

3) YSL SIZES AND DIMESIONS.

The Saint Laurent Sunset bag is available in small, medium and large sizes. The dimensions of each version are as follows:

YSL Sunset Small: 19 cm x 13 cm x 9 cm - Strap drop: unfolded 51cm; folded: 28 cm

YSL Sunset Medium: 22 cm x 16 cm x 8 cm - Strap drop: unfolded: 51 cm; folded: 28 cm

YSL Sunset Large: 27 cm x 18 cm x 8 cm - Strap drop: unfolded: 42 cm; folded: 24 cm

Overall, the YSL Sunset is a great go-to bag. It’s got a beautiful design which will add a touch of chic to any outfit. It is versatile, stores a good amount of items and is a standard price for this kind of designer bag. I think it is definitely worth the investment!

GLAM VALENTINE'S GIFT: DIOR TRIBALES EARRINGS

Hello dear readers. How was your Valentine's Day? 

As anticipated in my Instagram post, in which I described our celebrations, I'm going to write a short post about the present I received on the occasion: Dior Tribales earrings.

This bold model offers a new variation on an iconic style of the House. The white resin pearls suspend the signature letter charms 'D.I.O.R.' in gold-finish metal, with the letter 'O' paved with crystals. The clasp is integrated on the pearl, for a glam tribal effect.

Giving a romantic gift is all about knowing your partner. My sweetheart, even if he has known me for several years, and also my tastes pretty damn well, can still surprise me and strike the right chord without being overly cheesy. 

After all finesse is required, whether your relationship is brand spanking new or in its golden years...💕💘

HOW CELEBRITIES & FASHION PEOPLE STYLE THEIR FACE MASKS.

It would be an understatement to say that street style in 2020-2021 looks very different, if compared to previous years. This is, of course, due to the pandemic and its restrictions, including wear a face mask when you're among people. Naturally, stylish A-listers adapted to the safety rules and donned the newest must-have accessory with their chic looks. So, forget an It-shoe/ handbag, this year the style set wants a face mask to match their personal style.

We applaud these fashionable celebs for keeping themselves, and others, safe by wearing a face mask. And we can also rely on these sartorial stars to prove that you can make any face mask look stylish with the right outfit. From ultra-cool models' / actresses' off-duty ensembles to Royal celebrities' and it-girls effortless chic outfits, you'll definitely be inspired by your favourite stars' glam ways of dressing up a mask, especially because we are all certainly be wearing this accessory for long. And these examples are not enough glam for you, you can opt for facemasks to either match your dress or by A-list luxury brand, to make this protective gear the latest way to make a fashion statement.

Ahead see how a few celebrities style their face masks.

Olivia Palermo (It-girl)

Ana de Armas (Actress)

Duchess of Cambridge

Kaya Gerber (Model)

Letizia, Queen of Spain

Angelina Jolie (Actress)

Hailey Baldwin (Model)

BYE BYE STRESS: 9 STEPS TO THE ULTIMATE SUNDAY RELAXING BATH.

Sunday is the best day to recover from a busy week and prepare for a new one. When you're busy, but also during this stressful pandemic period with only a few leisure and social activities allowed, you should schedule some me-time during the weekend. It helps you to reduce stress and makes you feel good about yourself. A warm bath helps relax tensed nerves and makes you happier! What better way to end your weekend with a long relaxing bath and turning your bathroom into a private spa. 

1. Gather all your essentials: Find a nice bath soap, a book or your favorite magazine, some candles, essential oils for your relaxing bath. Transform your bath into a decadent honey moisture bath with foaming bubbles by twirling your favourite foam bath under running water.

2.  Add a scented oil: Add some scented oil when your bath is halfway full. Lavender or rose oil are great choices because of the relaxing effect. Now, I’m using all-natural bathing products and scented candles.

3. Right temperature: Dim the lights and make sure your bath is the right temperature. A warm bath is best for relaxing your body. If it’s too hot, you could get dizzy (we don’t want that).

4. Put on relaxing music and light a few candles: Spotify has some great relaxing playlists. It depends on your mood, but try to find something relaxing, calm, and positive. Light a few candles and place them on the edge of the tub.

5. Bring some snacks: I always love to bring a cup of green or chamomile tea with me. You can even treat yourself to a nice glass of wine, champagne, strawberries, chocolates, etc. Whatever you like, it’s your special time. Place it within easy reach, but far enough away that it will not fall in the bathtub.

6. Put on a face mask and tie your hair up: Tie your hair up and put on a face mask. A face mask can be very relaxing when used while you’re taking a bath.

7. Fluffy towel and bathrobe: Use some fluffy towels that make you feel warm and comfortable. I always warm my monogrammed towel and bathrobe by placing it on a radiator while I'm in the bath. This way, they will be nice and warm when I come out of my bath. Also, make sure your pj’s are already warm and ready in the bathroom.

8. Enjoy your bath!: Relax, read a book, and forget everything. This is your time to relax.

9. Extend relax afterward: Just enjoy some time for yourself before bedtime. Get a glass of tea and read or listen to music.

NEW YEAR, NEW GOALS: IT'S TIME TO PLAN FOR 2021.

The period between Christmas and 6th January for most is just a blur, during which just wait for days to go by and eat all the comfort food we have, am I right? 

But we all can become more intentional about how we want our lives to look like. Now, as for me, I took last week to really think about what I want, need and plan my next year. I highly encourage you to do the same, if you haven't, up to now, so as to start your NY off with a great mindset and direction on where to go.

I you want to join me in my reflection week, here's what I did:

1) I set up some time without interruption, lighted some candles and made the room cozy.

2) I got my planner, on which I wrote my goals, last year and really reflected on the actions I took, the goals I accomplished, and the ones I didn't. I reflected on why I didn't accomplish these goals and revised if these goals were still aligned with what I want. If they were, they automatically went into my next Year's goals.

3) Time to plan for 2021! Still in that journal, I wrote all the things I want to accomplish. In this section, it's time to go all out with our dreams, anything that's in our mind, which will appear more realistic and attainable if written on paper.

4) Vision board! I recreated mine with inspirational pictures, glued to it. It can be our 2021 goals or our lifetime goals, but we can do whatever we'd like, there are no rules here, we can even mix it all in, as from a stream of consciousness.

5) Action Plan! Because a goal without a plan is just a wish! Let's get those big goals we want for this year and break them down into small action steps to spread throughout the new year.

6) I transferred the goals and action steps to my newly set planner, and set a reminder to follow up on a weekly basis.

So isn't it exciting to be back making plans for a new year ahead, hoping that it will throw more exciting novelties at us... 

Happy New Year!