From Colombia, with love

FROM COLOMBIA, with love THE FIRST ISSUE SPRING TRENDS STRAIGHT FROM THE RUNWAY

REMEMBERING KARL DESTINATION:

PARADISE

ORGANIC BEAUTY BRANDS TO KNOW

WELCOME to the first issue I’m very happy to bring to you the first issue for From Colombia, with love magazine.

It’s a project that involved a lot of time, careful planning and love, so I’m really excited it has finally arrived to your hands.

As days go by, the arrival of spring is closer to us and that is what this issue is dedicated to. Whether you want to know the places to go to, what movies to watch, or the trends for the season, this magazine will be your guide. View the different trends that were present on the 2019 runway for both beauty and fashion, fall in love with your next vacation place, learn about some organic brands that are giving to the planet and your skin, and try one of the smoothies recipies we have curated for you.

Enjoy! maria alejandra contreras

CONTENTS 02 Welcome

FASHION

05 Spring Trends Straight From The Runway 13 Swim Trends 15 Oscar’s Best Dressed 17 In Honor Of Karl Lagerfeld 19 Inside a Bloggers Life

Silvia Tcherassi

Silvia Tcherassi

BEAUTY

21 Beauty Trends From The

Runway 25 Organic Brands You Need To Know 27 Skincare Routines Based On Your Skin Type 33 Ways To Treat Yourself At Home

SPOTLIGHT 35 Destination: Paradise

LIFESTYLE

39 Best Patios To Have Drinks 41 Best Post-Workout Smoothies

43 Meet The Editor 49 Editor’s Note

Fashion

Carolina Herrera

RUNWAY FASHION TRENDS SPRING SUMMER 2019 From pops of color to completely neutral outfits, there is a trend this season for every occassion and personality style. If you were looking to do a closet-cleanse and buy some different pieces for the new season, this article is going to help you find what you need. Get ready to get inspired with the different trends the runways left for us.

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Colorblock Maxi Revolve $350

Colorblock Maxi Lulu’s $83

Silvia Tcherassi

COLOR BLOCKED

This trend is a hard one to pull off, but possible, as Silvia Tcherassi, Versace and Prabal Gurung demonstrated. There are different ways to wear this trend, ranging from very daring to more safe. Regardless, this contrast will make your outfit (and you) stand out.

Ruffled Tiered Dress Urban Outfitters $68

Versace

Prabal Gurung

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BUSINESS CASUAL Carolina Herrera

Plaid Blazer Revolve $525

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Veronica Beard

Plaid Blazer Tobi $128

Out of all the trends, this is by far the most versatile. You can go from professional looking at the office to getting drinks with your friends at happy hour. Draw inspiration from the runway of Carolina Herrera, who has a fun approach to it with bold colors, fun prints and delicate details, or go more coordinated and muted like Veronica Beard did for this collection.

Plaid Blazer Urban Outfitters $128

Two-piece Jumpsuit $80 Lulu’s

Top $48 Pants $78 Tobi

MONOCHROMATIC Cushnie

Etro

Top $49 Pants $87 Lulu’s

Top $159 Pants $189, Revolve

Bright, bold one-color outfits were seen all over the runway. From designers like Cristian Siriano to Cushnie, monochromatic looks were present all over the runway this spring.

Christian Siriano

Etro

Tory Burch

Suede Fringe Blazer Free People $500

Chanel Pants $188 Matching Top $98 Revolve

Fable Vest Free People $298

Texas Skirt Revolve $275

FRINGED

Throughout the different runways we got to see different approaches to this trend from having it as small details on the sleeves, like Etro, and the top, like Tory Burch. Others committed fully to it like Chanel with the vest. Whichever approach you end up going for, it will definitely add a fun touch to your outfit.

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Floral Dress Revolve $89

Ruffled Maxi Dress For Love & Lemons $198

Carolina Herrera

Silvia Tcherassi

Floral Ruffled Dress Urban Outfitters $64

GARDEN PARTY Whether it is ditsy flowers like at the Luisa Beccaria show or bigger ones like at Rodarte’s, florals are a must for spring (everyone should own at least one floral pattern piece!.) Typically, this print tends to be super feminine and cute, but you can always spice it up and constrast it with some edgier accesories.

Rodarte

Luisa Beccaria Off Shoulder Floral Skater Dress Tobi $98

Floral Print Ruffled LaceUp Dress Lulu’s $64

Prabal Gurung

Self-Portrait Louis Vuitton

CLASHING PATTERNS Mini Dress For Love & Lemons $216

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Wearing mixed patterns can become tricky, but when it is done right like at the Burberry, Prabal Gurung and SelfPortrait shows, it can make everything look ten times more interesting. Whether it is done in a big or subtle way, this will take your outfit to a whole new level.

Ruffled Black Dress Lulu’s $54

Mixed Dress Revolve $227

Jumpsuit Set Tobi $102

Tom Ford

Top $250 Pants $295 Revolve

Burberry

HEAD-TO-TOE NEUTRALS

On the opposite side of the monochromatic trend we have the head-to-toe neutrals, which were seen at the Dior, Tom Ford, Burberry and Salvatore Ferragamo runways. This is a great alternative when you don’t feel comfortable enough to go wear a bright color head-to-toe, but you want to keep it within the same palette. It is also more versatile since you can change the accessories based on the occasion and have the outfit look completely different.

Culotte Jumpsuit Lulu’s $59

Crepe Jumpsuit Tobi $74

Dior

Salvatore Ferragamo

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Fashion

Daniela Salcedo

TROPICAL ESCAPE Daniela Salcedo

One- Piece Revolve $148

Bottoms $104 Top $117 For Love & Lemons

One-Piece Anthropologie $168

Top $108 Bottoms $108 For Love & Lemons

One-Piece Anthropologie $350 Bottoms $60 Top $65 Urban Outfitters

Bottoms $140 Top $135 Anthropologie

Bikini Set Revolve $350

Top $45 Bottoms $42 Lulu’s

One-Piece Anthropologie $119

Fashion Allison Janney in Pamella Roland

Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton

Kiki Layne in Atelier Versace

BEST DRESSED: Amandla Stenberg in Miu Miu

Gemma Chan in Valentino

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Regina King in Oscar de la Renta

Jennifer Hudson in Elie Saab Haute Couture

Brie Larson in Celine

OSCAR’S EDITION Emilia Clarke in Balmain

Hannah Beachler

Michelle Yeoh in Elie Saab

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Fashion

THE LEGACY OF KARL

Karl Lagerfeld was one of the most prolific designers of our times, serving as creative director for Chanel, Fendi and his eponymous line. By taking on these three brands he proved to be able to understand the difference among these and speak their very individual languages which resulted in collections that were always exciting but true to the brand. In addition to this, he was also a fashion photographer and even published his own book.

From submitting a series of sketches and fabric samples to a competition at the age of 16- in which he ended up taking first place in the coat category - to later becoming the first designer to do freelance, it all ended up evolving into a 54-years long and succesful career.

With his passing, he has left a long-lasting impression in the fashion world with both the people that knew him directly and those who followed his career and were affected by his genious and creativity from afar.

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The contribution Karl made to the fashion world is immense and incredibly complex, but there are definitely some specific things that stand out from his long career that showcase how he was always one step ahead from the game. When he started at Fendi in 1965 in the fur department he revolutionized it by creating designs that incorporated rabbit and squirrel fur, both of which had never been used before in fashion. He also incorporated fur into everyday wear, since up to this point it was typically used for formal occasions.

Later in 1975 he became the first fashion designer to create a perfume without having his own fragrance label and attach his full name to the actual product, which he did for Chloé.

When he arrived at Chanel in 1983 most luxury fashion houses were dormant, as was the industry itself, but Karl took on this brand and made it successful and relevant again. He started by taking some of Chanel’s classic pieces and making them more modern and relevant to the time. He also took some of the brands symbols like the intertwined double Cs, the pearls, the quilted bag and the tweed jacket, and turned them into the recognizable iconography we know today. He also expanded the brand by coming with several different product categories and different prices. This was meant to attract the masses with pieces that seemed more affordable and allowed customers to buy into the brand’s lifestyle while still keeping the aspirational and exclusive element to it. This turned out to be the business model most luxury companies have nowadays.

Apart from designing, he also had an eye for photography. He started in the 80’s shooting his own designs and campaigns, a practice that continued throughout his career. His photography helped him forge a well-rounded image as an artist. He also published his photographs in different books, one of which is called “Off the Record.”

Several models also credit their start in the fashion industry to Karl Lagerfeld, since he was the one to, in many occasions, discover them and give them a platform for international fame.

So, whether you liked him or hated him, the influence he had not only for the brands he worked with but the fashion industry as a whole, is undeniable.

“Whatever it is, good or bad, it influences fashion. You can see that in fashion quicker than in any other thing going on. Fashion is something that reflects our lives and times with the shortest release because, cars, design, and architecture take years to realize.”

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Fashion

THE ZEAL LIFE

Meet Myah, the creator of “The Zeal Life”, an online publication that is at real as it gets.

She noticed there was certain content she wanted to see but wasn’t getting anywhere, so she decided to write it herself. Every piece she creates for her publication is carefully thought and well-crafted, so she is always delivering high-quality content to her readers.

You will be able to find everything from fashion related news to conversations about sexuality in her website - a way for her to keep things honest and real. Continue to read the interview to get to know this wonderful person a little bit more.

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From Colombia, with love: What inspired you to start The Zeal Life?

Myah: I wanted to start a platform that allowed me to produce the content that I wanted to see in major publications — a source that promotes positive living in a quality fashion. The ultimate mission is to raise social consciousness through creative media, fashion editorials, videos, long form copy, etc. that encourage purpose in readers. In pursuing my own destiny, I am using my creativity and talents to inspire other artists to pursue their purpose as well.

FCWL: What has been some of the biggest challenges during the process?

M: Creativity is a form of energy that doesn’t always come consistently. I create from a profound state of mind, so ideas often come in waves.

I can be inspired to produce a big project, execute the project and then I will find myself in a place of creative block once it is completed. So finding the energy and time to produce quality content in a fast pace industry is a challenge. The solution is staying leveled and trusting the process.

FCWL: What defines your personal style?

M: I have to feel comfortable in anything I wear. My style embodies the paradox of both feminine and masculine energy that I embrace.

I can wear a sexy dress and a strappy heel or throw on over-sized coveralls with a pair of Adidas and feel just as fashionable. My style is versatile, edgy, chic and minimalistic.

What advice will you give on capturing the “insta-perfect” moment?

M: The Insta-perfect moment varies across

brands it is either natural and in the moment or one that is planned and just as intentional as a photo-shoot for a spread in a magazine. That moment ultimately depends on the brand’s story and what that photo is meant to say to a specific audience. So there’s no one size fits all perfect moment, but there’s the moment that is perfect and true for you.

FCWL: What have you learned from the experience of starting this publication?

M: Good things happen fast and die out just as fast, but great things take time and have longevity. We are in a generation that wants success, popularity, and money fast. We don’t want to put the time to cultivate legacy and impact. During this journey I’ve learned patience and the importance quality over quantity.

FCWL: What advice do you have for someone who wants to start their own online publication?

M: I have three pieces of advice.

First: Find your voice and be unapologetic in sharing your story through your work, and create the content that you want to read; good content will always find an audience. Second: Never play the comparison game, your power and success relies on you being your full authentic self, and no once can do that but you. Third: Build strong relationships across all mediums and be willing to learn a little bit of everything, so you can develop an eye in all parts of your publication.

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Beauty

Fendi

SPRING TRENDS: RUNWAY

From a natural makeup to a bright eye, all the trends from the 2019 runway shows.

CLASSIC RED LIP

Escada

Red lip is a classic when it comes to makeup, you can never go wrong with it. At the Escada and Lela Rose fashion shows it was accompanied of a natural makeup, making the red lip pop even more. A perfect for when you want to look put together without trying too hard.

Lela Rose

Revlon Super Lustrousâ„¢ Lipstick in Really Red $9

NATURAL BLUSH

Badgley Mischka

Very natural, minimalistic makeup was also present on the runway. Designers like Johathan Simkhai, Badgley Mischka and Brock Collection decided to just go for a pink accent on the cheeks and lips to enhance the natural colors of the models.

Glossier Cloud Paint in Puff $18

Jonathan Simkhai

Brock Collection

BOLD EYE

MAC Dazzleshadow Eyeshadow in Try Me On and Get Physical $19

Contrasting with the natural and minimal makeup at Jonathan Simkhai, Alice + Olivia, Byblos and Gabriela Hearst took an edgier turn by using bright, monochromatic eyeshadow.

Alice + Olivia

Byblos

Gabriela Hearst

BRAIDED

Good thing about braids, is that it is a really easy way to look put together. They are a great way to keep your hair in place and look good when your hair does not feel like behaving. A good way to make it more interesting is by adding accessories to it like Max Mara did in their fashion show. You can also wear two braids at each side like at the Alexander McQueen show or the traditional braid like at the Cushnie show.

Cushnie

SMOKEY EYE

Alexander McQueen

Tom Ford

Smokey eye is another go-to when it comes to make-up since it adds the glamour factor in an edgier way. You can go for a softer version like the one at the Nicole Miller show, go for a really hard eyeliner contour like Longchamp or the traditional full eye make-up like Tom Ford.

Smashbox Cover Shot Eye Palette in Minimalist $30

Smashbox Always On Gel Eye Liner $18

Nicolle Miller

Longchamp

Max Mara

Miu Miu

HEADBANDS Hair accessories were definitely a trend at the spring fashion shows, but one of the most predominant accessories were headbands. It can be a simple one like the ones at Dior or an embellished one like the one from the Miu Miu show.

Urban Outfitters Soiree Bedazzled Headband $18

Dior

GLITTERY

Simone Rochas

Glittery eyeshadow is a great way to go since you can either go for a real pop or do something subtler. One thing you can definitely count on is the shine factor.

The options are infinite when it comes to this product.

Stila Little White Lies Liquid Eye Shadow in Yellow Tales $24

Kate Spade

Beauty

ORGANIC BEAUTY BRANDS Each day we are becoming more and more aware of the damages some of our products do to the environment. At the same time we are more conscious of what we choose to put in our body and skin. That being said, there are some brands out there that are really doing their part when it comes to these two factors while still promising quality.

GLOSSIER Founded in 2010 by Emily Weiss. Initially started as a blog called “Into The Gloss” until it eventually developed into a full skincare and beauty brand. Some of their most popular products are their Milky Jelly Cleanser, the Boy Brow, Cloud Paint, and their Priming Moisturizer.

Find it online at glossier.com

LOVE PLANET AND BEAUTY As stated in their name, their mission is devoted 50/50 to beauty and the planet. Not only are they devoted to these two things but they also help support local farmers who harvest flowers and herbs by partnering with them to produce their fragrances. One of their coolest products is their conditioner which has a “fast-rinse technology” so you spend less time in the shower taking it off.

Find at lovebeautyandplanet.com 25

BURT’S BEES Not only their products are sustainable, but the whole company is - they don’t have trash cans in their offices. All their ingredients are organic, their packaging is recycled, and their products are not tested on animals. Their original Beeswax is so popular that one is bought every minute!

Find at burtsbees.com

OSEA MALIBU

Stands for Ocean.Sun.Earth.Atmosphere, “the core elements of wellness.” The base of all their products is seaweed which is the reason for the success of the brand. Some of their best products are the Black Algae Flash Mask, White Algae Mask and their Vitamin C Probiotic Face Polish.

Find at oseamalibu.com

PIXI BY PETRA Creator Petra Strand has over twenty years of experience in the cosmetics industry. Her mission with this brand is to bring out the natural beauty in all women. Since it is available at Target is very easy to find and very affordable. Their most popular product by far is the Glow Tonic Find at pixibeauty.com

KOPARI The base of every product is 100% pure, organic coconut oil that is sustainably sourced. Each product is made with skin-loving ingredients for all beauty needs. Offer body care, skincare and personal care. Some of their top products are the Coconut Melt, Coconut Sheer Oil and the Coconut Body Glow.

Find at koparibeauty.com

Beauty

HOW YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE SHOULD LOOK BASED YOUR ON SKIN TYPE

Glossier Taking care of your skin is extremely important, and the biggest factor to consider when it comes to this, is your skin type. With skin care one size does not fit all so it is extremely important to be aware of your skin needs in order to buy the right products and take good care of it. Again, based on the skin type the routine and the products used will vary (you don’t want to use a super harsh chemical peel on a sensitive skin or an oily cleanser on acne-prone skin) so just make sure you take all factors into consideration when purchasing your products.

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SENSITIVE SKIN

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Cleanser It’s a hypoallergenic cleanser that removes dirt without disturbing your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Formulated with a hypoallergenic fragrance that prevents skin irritation. It is oil-free.

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser $10

Makeup Remover No rinse formula that protects your skin while effectively removing all make-up from face, eyes and lips. It also helps restore the protective barrier and softens the skin and hydrates the skin.

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Avène Micellar Lotion Cleanser and Makeup Remover $28

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Serum Helps prevent water from evaporating from the skin to provide deep hydration. Also provides powerful antioxidant protection. Restores and replenishes the skin for 24 hours of hydration.

Avène Hydrance Intense Rehydrating Serum $38

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Face Mask Deeply hydrating. Helps nourish, calm and rejuvenate your skin. Works in only 10 minutes. Soothing formula due to the duo of oats.

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask $24

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OILY SKIN

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Cleanser This cleanser is amazing because it gets rid of all impurities without irritating the skin. Its formula contains Zinc which helps regulate oil production.

No. 7 Beautiful Skin Foaming Cleanser $10

Tonic This tonic reduces shine and excess oil but doesn’t irritate your skin in the process. It is also good for acne-prone skin given that it has Salicylic Acid.

Origins Zero Oil Pore Purifying Toner $23

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2

Serum This serum does a great job when it comes to cleaning pores and minimizing them. It also helps regulate oil production.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% $5

Face Mask This mask gets rid of oil, dirt and pollution while balancing your skin to leave you with a healthy glow. They claim your skin will feel as if it can breathe better afterwards.

L’Oreal Pure-Clay Detox & Brighten Face Mask $13

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4

COMBINATION SKIN

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Cleanser It is perfect for combination skin because it effectively gets rid of all impurities without being too harsh on the skin and leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed.

Clinique Rinse-Off Foaming Cleanser $21

2

Toner It balances your skin by treating oily areas without being too harsh on the face. It also helps minimize large pores and hydrates.

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing PoreReducing Toner $21

3

Lotion It is the perfect combination between oil control and moisture lock. Attacks the T-zone to leave your whole skin looking smooth and shine free.

Clarins Hydra-Matte Lotion Combination Skin $48

The secret is the Japanese white charcoal which gets rid of all impurities in your skin while visibly reducing your pores as well. It also contains Glycerin which will hydrate and soothe the skin.

PCA Skin Detoxifying Mask $60

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Face Mask

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ACNE PRONE

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Cleanser This oil-free cleanser which salicylic acid deeply cleans your skin, leaving no residue behind and reducing the acne-causing bacteria. It also leaves behind a refreshind orange scent.

Philosophy Clear Days Ahead Acne Treatment Cleanser $22

Toner

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A great combination between sulfur which cleans the impurities and cucumber and camphor which help keep skin refreshed. When used twice a day it helps control the shine on the T zone as well.

Mario Bandescu Special Cleansing Lotion “C� $15

Treatment The key to this treatment is the salicylic acid that has proven to be incredibly effective in banishing blemishes.

You can wear it during the day as well since it is light enough to wear under makeup.

Murad Rapid Relief Acne Spot Treatment $22

Face Mask Formulated with Bamboo Charcoal, White China Clay and Lecithin which together act to clear skin and get rid of impurities. It is great for oil control and acne treatment. Origins is an organic brand.

Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask $26

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2

4

1

Cleanser

This formula helps get rid of all impurities without leaving any residue behind and keeping the moisture locked in your skin. It is balanced enough to fit most skin types.

Fresh Rose Cleansing Foam $29

Serum Not only it helps brighten skin and keep it hydrated, but it also makes your skin look younger by dimishing the fine lines in your face. They really focused on the pH level of this gel to make sure it was ideal for all skin types.

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Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum $59

Mosturizer

The technology in this moisturizer not only provides hydration but actually helps skin create its own internal water to continue to hydrate itself, which results in a 72-hour hydration - even after washing your face.

Clinique Moisture Surge 72-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator $39

Face Mask The Calendula in the mask helps with hydration and smoothing of the skin while the Aloe provides a cooling effect. It reduces any sign of distress for a healthy-looking skin.

Kiehl’s Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Mask $18

DRY SKIN

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4

Beauty

We’ve all been there - at the end of a hard day (or week) we want to treat ourselves to something nice to recharge our energy and let all the pressure go. Sometimes in spite of how much we deserve this because we really do – it can be hard to fit in your budget. This article will help you come up with ways of treating yourself without having to spend too much money, and the best, at the comfort of your own home. So, relax and get ready to let all your worries go.

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TREAT YOURSELF AT HOME

There are actually a few ways in which you can

pamper yourself without hurting your pocket. A very easy way is to give yourself a new manicure and pedicure. You can do a “Netflix and Nails” sort of thing and just play your favorite show while you fix them. Having our nails done always makes us feel like we can conquer the world afterwards and it is also a good thing to do to keep your appearance clean and professional.

Another way is to take a relaxing warm bath, which has traditionally been known to help get rid of stress since it relaxes the muscles. Just play your favorite music or show, light up some candles, pour a glass of wine - or two - and enjoy. For an enhanced experience, add an extra something to the water like an essential oil, a bath bomb or even coconut milk. Research the benefits of these individual choices to decide which one you want based on what you need or are looking for.

Something else you can also do is to give yourself a face mask. When we are stressed our skin tends to suffer by looking dull, dry, puffy and sometimes it can even make you breakout, so you want to take some time to take care of it. It is not necessary to buy a mask at a store since there a lot of natural ingredients that you find in your fridge and mix up, but if you rather just get one that is pre-made make sure it fits your needs.

You can also add an extra step to the skin care time by using a face roller to massage your face and complement the whole treatment. This will improve the blood circulation, which will help get rid of dark circles and tone and lift skin, all leading to a healthy glow.

Rare Rose Quartz Facial Roller $50

Maison Margiela ‘REPLICA’ By The Fireplace Scented Candle $62

Forever 21 Bath Bomb Trio $8

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Lifestyle

DESTINATION: PARADISE

by Maria Alejandra Contreras

I

t’s official! Colombia has been named one of the coolest places to visit by Forbes.com and being a Colombian myself it felt right to give you the reasons why you most certainly should visit. Whether you are going with your friends, your boyfriend, by yourself or with your family, looking for an adventurous experience or a more relaxing one; or just different ways to explore the culture, this article is going to provide you with an overview of Colombia.

THE ENERGY One of the things the country is most known for is the people. Colombia has appeared several times in the list of happiest countries in the world, and they will always welcome you with a smile on their face. Most of them will also be very open to point out the places that you should go to and give you tips so you can take full advantage of the place and are able to experience it like a local. Also, due to the multiple holidays and celebrations a year, one thing you can count on is that Colombians know how to have fun.

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One of the largest festivals in the country is the Barranquilla Carnival, or “Carnaval de Barranquilla”, a 3-day festival, considered the most important infestival in Colombia since it is dedicated to highlight multiple aspects of the country’s culture for the entire duration of it. In fact, UNESCO declared it one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity Dance in 2003.

If there are no festivals happening during the time of your visit, another alternative are the night clubs, which are also a great way to celebrate the culture.

Whether you are dancing to a fast-paced salsa song or a slow vallenato song (a music style traditional of the Caribbean region), it will for sure make for a night of fun.

THE FOOD Another thing Colombia is famous for is the delicious food. Due to its location Colombia’s numerous fruits and vegetables are produced year-round, so most of the dishes you will find are prepared with natural ingredients and often with minimal dressing or seasoning to enhance the freshness of the components. For the most part, all meals are accompanied by a natural fresh-squeezed juice since, again, a lot of fruits are produced all over the country and therefore are easy to access. Based on the region the traditional dish will change, so make sure you are asking about the specialty of the area as well as the best place to eat it, so you are experiencing the true cuisine.

THE PLACES But the best thing about this country is the different places you can visit, not only for how incredibly beautiful they are but also because of how diverse they are as well. Before naming some of the places I feel obligated to spit out some facts, so brace yourselves because here they come: Colombia ranks second in the list of the 17 most biodiverse countries and it is the combination of the Amazon and the Chocó rainforests that leads to a unique mix of plants and animals. In fact, Colombia is home to the most endemic species in the world - meaning species that are exclusive to one area. It also has the highest number of species by area in the world; over 4,000 species of orchids grow here, and one out of every five butterfly species is found in the country. So clearly, Colombia is an extremely interesting country to get to know.

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Silvia Tcherassi

Apart from the rainforest, some of the best places to visit if you want to experience nature are Caño Cristales, also called The Liquid Rainbow, a multi-colored river due to the different flowers, fish and rock formations found here; Salento, home to the tallest palm trees in the world; or Nuquí, where between the months of June and October you can go whale watching.

Also home to beautiful beaches, you can experience the sand and the ocean in different ways. From luxury hotels with enclosed beaches to a more natural experience, you have over 300 beaches to choose from. Some of the most popular are Parque Tayrona, San Andres & Providencia, and Isla Barú, all located in the Caribbean region.

Daniela Salcedo

Finally, if you are looking for something less risky you can always go to the main cities like Bogotá, Medellin, and Cali where you can still experience the culture without going too far from your comfort zone. Whichever you choose, it will be an experience to remember.

“The city’s shapes, colors, and patterns, with its Caribbean flair and eclectic appeal, are a part of my brand’s DNA as they link to my heritage and upbringing.”

- Silvia Tcherassi Johanna Ortiz

THE FASHION INDUSTRY Now, not only these are the reasons why you should visit Colombia, but they are also what inspires the different artists of the country, from musicians to designers, a list that is constantly growing.

Especially in the fashion industry there are a few names that over the past few years have grown, not just in the country, but internationally as well. Some names you might recognize are Silvia Tcherassi and Johanna Ortiz, two designers that are constantly inspired by the little things that make their country special.

For her latest collection, Ortiz drew inspiration from the jaguar that lives in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region, a symbol of the pre-Columbian culture as well. On the other hand, we have Mercedes Salazar, who considers herself an artisan, and claims Colombia is at the heart of everything she designs. She started experimenting with unconventional materials to create her jewelry pieces, and lately has taken this idea even further by investing in the research of more of these. She also has created long-term alliances with several indigenous groups by making them part of the production chain as suppliers of fabrics and elements she incorporates in her pieces.

On the up-and-coming hand we have Daniela Salcedo and Alejandra Valdivieso, who take advantage of one of Colombia’s biggest resource, gold, to create their pieces. Valdivieso constantly draws inspirations from Colombian culture for all her pieces, like her ant pieces, a symbol very typical of the Santander region and was featured in the ‘100 leaders of society’ article by Gerente magazine in Colombia. For Daniela Salcedo, it started as a school project that later developed into a full company with retails stores in both Colombia and Mexico. Both designer pieces are made in bronze and bathed in gold and handcrafted in Colombia.

FINALLY At this point I hope I have convincingly made my case for you to visit, since clearly there are endless reasons to do so, or at least to add some “Made in Colombia” pieces to your wardrobe.

If you do decide to visit, make sure you do your research to plan the trip that best suits your style, but whether you choose to visit this country for its beautiful places, delicious food, fun culture or growing fashion industry, it is a trip worth your time and who knows, you might love this country so much you end up staying!

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Lifestyle

BEST PATIOS TO HAVE DRINKS 39

After months of running away from the cold, you might want to take advantage of the sunny days ahead, and what better way to do this than having a few drinks under the sun while you enjoy a gorgeous view of the city. So, if you are looking for the best places in the city and you happen to be in Atlanta to enjoy some FrosĂŠ with your friends, this list will help you take advantage of that girls time.

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love warm weather, I really do. Which is why as soon as it gets warm you can bet I’ll be standing underneath the sun as much as I can. A great and fun way to do it is to spend the afternoon with your friends just sipping cocktails while you listen to some good music and enjoy the fresh, warm air. Based on the place you go to the environment will change, as well as the different activities you’ll be able to do, but one thing you can count on with this list is that they will all have great cocktails and amazing views.

The first place is Gypsy Kitchen, a Spanish restaurant located at the Shops of Buckhead.

With their menu they intend to keep the traditional Spanish cuisine but made in a more modern way.

During the weekends they tend to have tapas and drinks specials meant for you to enjoy with a group of friends. They also sometimes offer live music.

Another place is O-Ku, a sushi place located in Midtown. Their menu is also a contemporary approach to traditional cuisine, but in this case it’s an Asian one. Their main restaurant is on the first floor, but if you are looking to enjoy the fresh air you can head to their rooftop which counts with an exclusive food menu and really interesting cocktails.

If you’re looking for a little bit more entertainment you might want to consider the Clermont Hotel rooftop, since it has a few games that you can play with your friends. The building itself has a rich history in the city of Atlanta and has gone through many different renovations to finally recently open as a boutique hotel. The environment is really different with a style that has been described as “rock n’roll meets grandma’s living room.” As for the food, you will get a playful menu of street food and occasionally, they have live DJs playing.

But by far the one that counts with the most activities is The Roof at Ponce City Market, also located in Midtown. From fun games like mini golf to a full dinner service, this place has it all. Apart from the live music they offer at night, they often do different themed events, like the Mardi Gras one, that really immerse you into the occasion.

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Lifestyle

BEST POST WORKOUT SMOOTHIES After giving it your all on your workout session, you need to replenish the energy that your lost. For this, nothing is more delicious and convenient than a smoothie - and of course, effective. Smoothies are great because they are packed with nutrients and protein, but they can be enjoyed in a to-go version for when you need to get moving. In this article you will find just a few examples of healthy smoothies you can drink to keep you going through the day and won’t make you feel guilty afterwards. Also, don’t feel limited to these recipes, with smoothies there is no wrong, you can mix and match until you find a recipe that fits you.

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The Spinach Smoothie

Spinach has been linked to numerous health benefits like cancer prevention, moderation of blood pressure, contributing to eye health and figthting oxidative stress. If you are scared of how spinach tastes in a drink you can add kiwi, banana, milk, greek yogurt and a touch of honey to disguise the flavors.

The Cherry Smoothie

Cherries helps relax muscles, something you’ll definitely need after working out. Mix a banana, pinneaple, cherries, greek yogurt and coconut water. The coconut water helps with hydration and adds an extra flavor to your smoothie.

The Berries Smoothie

Among the benefits that berries offer we see they help your arteries healthy, lowers cholesterol levels, reduce skin wrinkling and help fight inflammation. A simple recepie is to just throw all your berries (blackberries, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries) in the blender, milk, vanilla protein powder and enjoy!

The Kale Smoothie

Kale helps reduce the risk of heart attacks, diabetes, lowers cancer risk and contributes to bone, skin and hair health and improves digestion. For a packed smoothie add pineaple, strawberries, banana, milk and honey or stevia for sweetness. You can also add greek yogurt for extra smoothness and protein.

The Cranberry Smoothie

The best known health benefit cranberries have is the prevention of urinary tract infections, but cranberries also help reduce the risk of cardiovscular disease and they benefit oral health by preventing bacteria from binding to teeth. Mix cranberries, oranges and a banana with water. Add maple syrup for sweetness.

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BEHIND THE SCENES with the editor

Get a glimpse into who the editor is as she models some of the trends for the season

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOANA VARGAS STYLING BY MARIA ALEJANDRA CONTRERAS MAKEUP AND HAIR BY MARIA ALEJANDRA CONTRERAS MODEL MARIA ALEJANDRA CONTRERAS

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EDITOR’S NOTE My name is Maria Alejandra Contreras and I am the creator of this magazine. I was born in Colombia but moved to the United States three years ago to study Fashion Marketing and Managament, which I’ll soon graduate from. I started my blog “From Colombia, with love” in 2017 and after a lot of work and planning I decided to expand by making it a printed magazine, which you know have the pleasure to enjoy.

My mission with my blog is to make it fashion and beauty related contened that is easy to digest featuring affordable pieces and easy-to-recreate looks, for those who feel overwhelmed with the thought of dressing in the morning. I intend to carry that mission into this magazine in a more well-rounded way, so that you can still feel comfortable scrolling to this articles and hopefully feel encouraged afterwards to acquire a few pieces.

As I said, I intend to bring to you content that not only you’ll enjoy but that will also move and inspire you - content you can relate to. From the interviews we conduct, to the photoshoots we create, to the articles we write, we always have you in the back of our minds and it is our intention to deliver content that will excite you.

Hopefully, this will be the start of a long-lasting relationship between us and that you guys continue to give us the opportunity to bring you new information each month.

Thank you for sticking with us until here and I hope to see you in our next issue.

From Colombia, with love maria alejandra contreras