Scent of the Summer: Valour

A modern red that defines the season.

There’s something timeless about a red lip — the quiet confidence, the instant polish, the effortless glamour. This season, our pick is Bobbi Brown’s Luxe Lipstick in Claret — a deep, rich red with a creamy, cashmere-like texture that feels as indulgent as it looks.

More than just colour, this lipstick embodies the new kind of luxury — understated yet powerful. The formula, enriched with hyaluronic acid and floral extracts, glides on smoothly and hydrates as it wears. The finish? A luminous satin that lasts through long lunches, late nights, and everything in between.

The Shade: Claret

Warm and refined, Claret sits beautifully between a classic crimson and a modern wine. It’s the kind of red that flatters every skin tone — bold enough for evening wear, yet sophisticated enough for day. Whether paired with a sleek black dress or soft linen neutrals, it adds instant depth and confidence.

The Texture: Luxe, Long-Lasting, Cashmere Smooth

Part of Bobbi Brown’s premium Luxe collection, the Cashmere Lipstick range is celebrated for its comfort and staying power. This isn’t your mother’s matte — it’s a new generation of luxury lip colour designed for real life. One swipe delivers rich pigment, while the formula nourishes lips throughout the day.

The Moment: Canterbury’s Event Season

From Cup Week to New Year soirées, this is the lip that goes the distance. Think champagne in hand, camera flashes, and the soft gleam of candlelight — Claret delivers that touch of quiet drama every festive look needs.

Where to Find It

Available at Ballantynes Christchurch, Bobbi Brown counters nationwide, and online at bobbibrown.co.nz.

At Cantabrian Magazine, we know that long Canterbury days outdoors call for more than style – they demand smart sun protection. That’s why we’ve been sampling the new Sunny Suncare Range by Bondi Sands, and it’s safe to say, it’s fabulous.

Infused with skin-loving ingredients such as Vitamin E and Australian Hibiscus, Sunny is lightweight, oil-free, dermatologically tested, and suitable for sensitive skin. From complexion-friendly face drops to a water-resistant body serum perfect for beach walks, each formula blends effortlessly for an invisible finish.

Bondi Sands explains the range was designed “to deliver high-quality sun protection while addressing common concerns about SPF texture and pore clogging.” It’s beauty with brains – practical, wearable, and effective.

Sun safety isn’t just for summer. Make SPF part of your daily routine, reapplying throughout the day for true protection. With Sunny, being sunsmart has never felt easier.

Thanks to Bondi Sands Australia and Undertow Media for sharing this innovative new range with us.

Winter in Canterbury holds its own beauty: the hush of frosted mornings, the crisp bite of air, the slow rhythm of shorter days. Yet beneath its elegance lies a challenge—our bodies and skin often bear the strain of the season. True wellness during these colder months is not about dramatic resolutions, but about cultivating subtle, lasting habits. Think of it as the stealth wealth of health: understated practices that pay dividends in energy, vitality, and radiance.

Skin Care: Protecting the Glow
Winter air, dry heating, and less sunlight can deplete skin of its natural balance. A pared-back but purposeful routine works best:

Hydration at the core – a quality ceramide-rich moisturiser locks in moisture without excess. Pair with a nourishing face oil at night for added protection.

SPF, even in grey skies – UV rays still reach through clouds, and prevention is the most elegant form of skin care.

Weekly renewal – gentle exfoliation maintains skin luminosity, keeping the complexion fresh through the winter dullness.


Movement: Staying Active Without the Show
Winter can tempt us into inertia, but small, consistent activity keeps circulation strong and spirits lifted.

Layered walks – bracing strolls in crisp air, dressed in quiet comfort, provide both exercise and mindfulness.

Low-impact rituals – yoga, pilates, or bodyweight routines at home allow strength-building without the need for flashy memberships.

Functional fitness – choose activity that integrates seamlessly into your day, such as taking the stairs or stretching between tasks.


Nutrition: Understated Nourishment
Winter cuisine can be indulgent, but true refinement lies in balance.

Seasonal produce – root vegetables, citrus, and dark leafy greens are abundant, nutrient-rich, and naturally suited to the season.

Warming proteins – lentils, beans, and lean meats support energy while grounding the body.

Mindful indulgence – a square of quality dark chocolate or a glass of full-bodied red wine savoured slowly is a richer experience than excess.


The Essence of Stealth Wellness
The art of living well in midwinter isn’t about chasing extremes—it’s about crafting small, intentional rituals that sustain you quietly. Like a cashmere scarf or a perfectly cut coat, these habits work in the background, elevating your season without demanding attention.

Wellness, after all, is the ultimate quiet luxury.