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CERTIFIED CHAMPION OF CURLS WINTER TAN FOR MELANIN SKIN WE’RE OBSESSED! MAIN CHARACTER COMMUTE THE DEFINITION OF TRAVEL IN STYLE ITALIAN CURL 101 MEET THE HOTTEST BRAID OUT NOW spellmagazine.co.uk
crochet beauty made featherlight
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Contents 04 Scoop Meet the industry disruptor behind Hair Muse 06 Spellometer What’s hot, what’s not 07 Who to follow Social media accounts worth a follow 08 Main character commute Outfit inspo to get around town
26 Culture shock
20 Spell loves
16 Supernova Avlon artistic team serve ablaze of texture 18 Starr of the show Meet the cover star Starr Kiely 20 Spell loves The product-junkie page inter tan, yes please! 22 W Tan-tastic buys for melanin skin 24 What are French curl braids? We breakdown the viral trend 26 Culture shock Author Abi Adamson encourages to rethink the way we work 28 Don't miss Unmissable reads from spellmagazine.co.uk
08 Main character commute
22 Winter tan, yes please!
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CERTIFIED CHAMPION OF CURLS WINTER TAN FOR MELANIN SKIN WE’RE OBSESSED! MAIN CHARACTER COMMUTE THE DEFINITION OF TRAVEL IN STYLE ITALIAN CURL 101 MEET THE HOTTEST BRAID OUT NOW spellmagazine.co.uk
EDITOR Jemima Cousins WRITERS Jennifer Meredith DESIGNER Rob Wheele
FIND US ONLINE 16 Supernova
COVER: STARR KIELY X CURLSMITH
@spellmagazine E: editorial@spellmagazine.com
© 2026 Feme Ltd. Reproduction of the contents of Spell Magazine in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are the author’s own, and may not reflect the views and opinions of Feme Ltd. This publication includes images generated with the assistance of AI technologies.
P O SCO
The Revival Kit, £40
Interview
Secrets to a seamless laid weave, go-to ponytail products and the powerful inspiration of mum
BEHIND THE SCENES
HAIR MUSE Hair Muse founder Hanifah Skeete knows a great install is only half the story. Inspired by clients who struggled to keep their styles fresh between appointments, she created the Hair Muse Revival Kit, a complete aftercare system that takes the guesswork out of maintenance.
Read the full interview at spellmagazine.com
I created the Hair Muse Revival Kit because I noticed many clients struggled to maintain their hairstyles between appointments. While a great install is important, maintenance, and I mean consistent care, is what keeps hair long-lasting. I also found that a lot of people were using multiple products from different brands that didn't work well together. With the Revival Kit, every product has been carefully selected to complement the others. They work together as a complete system, helping clients achieve the best possible results. For me, the secret to a laid weave is in both the installation and aftercare. A seamless blend starts with a neat, flat foundation and hair that complements the client's natural texture. From there, maintaining the look is just as important. Using heat protection, keeping the hair hydrated, SPELL
and following a simple maintenance routine helps keep sew-ins looking sleek, healthy, and natural between appointments. When it comes to ponytails my go-to products are the Hair Muse Edge Control and Pro Blend Spray. I apply the edge control in layers to smooth and flatten the hair section by section, creating a sleek foundation. I then finish with the Pro Blend Spray to lock the style in place, add shine, and maintain a smooth, polished finish throughout the day.
on making sure every hair is where it needs to be. So, clients get the best of both worlds. My inspiration comes from a mix of industry creatives and the women around me. I really admire hairstylists like Arrogant Tae for his attention to detail and ability to create flawless, luxury looks. I'm also inspired by women like Jayda Cheaves, who are constantly reinventing their style and influencing beauty trends.
But honestly, one of my biggest inspirations was my mum. Growing up, I I’m the type of stylist who watched her switch up loves a good chinwag and her hairstyles all the time, getting to know my clients and I was fascinated by when they first sit in the how hair could completely chair as it’s all part of the transform someone's experience and building look and confidence. I a relationship. But when remember when she it gets to the nitty gritty, got a sew-in and I begged I’m there working on the her to let me have one details. I definitely zone in. too! She made me wait There’s usually a point in until I was older, but I the appointment where was so excited when I the conversation slows finally got my first sew-in down and I’m fully focused as a teenager.
04 MAGAZINE
Bulletin Don't get left behind... Stay in the loop!
Note from Spell Editor It’s never too late for selfreinvention. Whether you want the changes to be big or small, inside or out, this issue is filled to the brim with options you can select and make your own. Starting with your daily commute (page 10), bring a hint of practical glamour to energise how you feel. When you vibrate at a higher frequency, you’ll get noticed for the right reasons, and have others stop to give you way. TEDx speaker and author Abi Adamson imparts career advice to help navigate through toxic work environments and transform your mindset. Turn to Culture shock, page 28.
Case closed
First look The landscape of braiding is set to change with the arrival of HaloBraid. Founded by tech innovator Yinka Ogunbiyi (pictured above left), the first-of-its-kind device assists in completing a braid extension, removing the manual labour and time required for a full head. With no official launch date, sign up via the website to stay in the loop.
Secure an elite mirror selfie with the Casetify x Fenty Beauty phone case. The stylish accessory puts a spin on humdrum phone protection with mirror-shine finishes and graphic graffitis. Plus, the convenience of having Fenty Beauty faves close to hand means you can ditch the clunky make-up bag and Shine Bright Like A Diamond. Prices from, £24.
Happy reading!
Jemima Cousins, Editor @j.coenterprise
What's landed on the beauty desk this month?
99 reasons EYEPHALT Eyebag Cream, £17.90
Party season is here, and the place to be is NinetyNine Regent Street. The timeless interior and bespoke architectural materials bring a new vibe to city club life – less strobe light and more warm light. Set across two floors, The Club Room has the main dancefloor and The Vinyl Room is tailored to luxe lounging and dining if you prefer a sophisticated soiree. 99 Regent Street, London, United Kingdom W1B 4EZ SPELL
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The
SPELL-OMETER
What’s hot and what’s not in the world of Spell
DOWN
BLACK LURRRVE
Law Roach aka the ‘Image Architect’ can do no wrong. May his reign of fashion fabulousness and supremely entertaining podcast appearances continue.
With Forever returning for season two in 2027 and A Different World also renewed for a second run, Black love and nostalgia are having a very welcomed moment.
WEATHERPROOF TRESSES
ALL SEASONS
UN-EDGED HAIRLINE
Desiray Green
PARTY SMALL TALK
Michael B. Jordan skipped his signature razor-sharp hairline and the internet had opinions. We’re declaring this grown-out-look a national emergency.
Let’s face it, feigning interest puts social anxiety at 100%. We’d rather befriend the buffet.
Come rain sleet, or snow, nothing will dampen our silk press when we’ve got Design Essentials Agave & Lavender Blow-dry & Heat Shield, £12
K? NO, IT’S J-BEAUTY
The Jo Malone Christmas colognes may be limited edition, but we’ve already earmarked Vanilla Scotch, £60 for our spring fragrance.
Japanese skincare, haircare and makeup steeped in ancient rituals and advanced science. Time to explore.
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@aifascinated
@drewomaukeleghe
THE REAL DEAL
@jasonbolden
@luxurylaw
@foreveronnetflix
UP
ATTENTION
AI short-form films are getting addictive – because who can concentrate for a whole feature-length anymore?
WHO to follow Jaded by the same old posts on the ‘Gram? Freshen up your feed with these follow-worthy accounts
BEEMCO
Chee Smalls
Who: @beemco.world
Who: @cheesmalls
Bio: A Pledge to the Edge The edges brush, reimagined. Patent pending.
Bio: Style Expert, Sr. Corporate Director, 15+yrs in Corporate Fashion, As Seen In: CFDA, Essence & TZR
Like: The edge brush continues to evolve. The latest update comes from the British brand Beemco. Born from founder Leo’s frustration with the lack of practical and goodlooking styling tools on the market, the EDGEDROP rethinks the traditional toothbrush design with a compact, purpose-made beauty object with its own lid. The patent-pending tool sculpts and shapes delicate baby hairs, making hairlines a work of art Picasso would be proud of. Follow if you want inspo and a fresh take on edge styling.
Like: New York-based style expert and senior corporate director Chee Smalls brings more than 15 years of fashion industry experience to her feed. Her daily posts range from polished outfit posts and clever styling ideas such as seasonal staples worn multiple ways, to beauty recommendations and reviews, plus glimpses into her glamorous work and day-to-day life. Follow if you like your fashion inspiration elevated and delivered by an industry expert.
Curves at Home
MÒNA
Who: @curvesathome Bio: Contemporary homeware & objects. In y(our) homes, at our office & showroom.
Who: @shopmona_ Bio: Simply Chic Made to order | Worldwide Shipping.
Like: Founded by Toronto-based designer Sean Brown, Curves at Home is a contemporary design and lifestyle brand with an eye for the unexpected. The brand became widely known for its signature Curves tote bags, but the feed is packed with far more, from CD-shaped rugs and candles to inflatables, apparel and quirky decorative objects. Follow for bold colour, offbeat interiors and lots of inspiration if beige minimalism leaves you wanting more.
Like: MÒNA is a Nigerian fashion brand and boutique based at Banex Mall in Lekki, serving up sleek, feminine style with a polished edge. Its Instagram is a mix of new product drops, outfit inspiration, styling tips and exciting behindthe-scenes moments from shoots and brand life. Follow this up-and-coming indie brand for a steady stream of chic looks and ideas on how to style them. SPELL
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Photo by Chris Barbalis, Unsplash
TREND REPORT
commute MAIN CHARACTER And the Oscar for best dressed leading lady goes to…
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08 MAGAZINE
“THE TRAIN MIGHT BE RUNNING LATE, BUT THE OUTFIT IS RIGHT ON TIME.” Unknown
When you hear the phrase “romanticise your life”, a picture is often conjured of dimly lit evenings with a scented candle, face mask and Netflix. Or perhaps a slow morning journaling session, complete with birdsong and a matcha made from scratch (or from Blank Street –we won’t tell).
However, what about the areas of life that really need the extra boost – like your commute? We hear your gloomy mumbles and groans. Even the word itself can stir up tension in our shoulders. How can the feeling of getting your bag trapped in the ticket barriers, or being stuck behind a slow driver, be romantic in any way?
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Well, if nothing about your commute makes you feel like you’ve “got it together”, your outfit can at least fill in the blanks. Whether your mode of transport is the Tube, a car, your bike, or you’re stomping the pavements, put some extra flavour into your ensemble and your commute will romanticise itself.
@__nadinep
TREND REPORT
Cashmere Thermal Top M&S, £28
Tube Girl
Barrel Jean, M&S, £38
Tackling the hustle and bustle five days a week requires a wardrobe tailored to survive stairs, escalators, warm tube carriages and close encounters with other people’s backpacks. Make breathable layers, a hands-free bag, polished-but-comfortable shoes your style besties – and nothing so precious that a rush-hour coffee collision could ruin your entire week.
Cross-Body Bag, by Tu, £16
Funnel Neck Jacket, by New Look, £49.99
Vanilla Skin Deodorant, by Phlur at Space NK, £20 @shaiannj
Brown Suede Loafers, by TK Maxx, £16.99
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Walk Everywhere Woman It’s frustrating when Google Maps flags “only a 25-minute walk” to then send you on a goose chase around three sets of roadworks. Comfort is non-negotiable, but commuter trainers needn’t condemn an otherwise excellent outfit. Start with supportive flats, trainers or boots, then add easy layers, weather-conscious outerwear and a bag that won’t leave one shoulder filing a formal complaint by lunchtime.
Leather Gloves, by Coach, £125
@sandra_ezenva
Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+, by Beauty of Joseon, £15.50
Backpack, TK Maxx, £27.99
Beaufort Wax Jacket, by Barbour x A.P.C, £499
Fitted jersey trousers, by H&M, £44.99
@veronica.fsa
Tully Ankle Wellington Boots, Oliver Bonas, £119.95
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Cargo Trousers, by Very, £35
TREND REPORT
@beautybyyasi
Colour block Lipstick in Amberlight, by Ilia at Space NK, £28
Passenger Princess
Ona Soft Bag, by Ölend, £82
Mary Jane Flats, New Look, £35.99 @yvonnevictoria
Technically, you could commute in six-inch heels, however the reality of crossing the car park while wrestling a laptop from the passenger footwell in icey conditions is an instant turn off. You want a style that’s a little more forgiving: crease-resistant tailoring, loafers or low heels, sunglasses permanently stationed in the car and a coat that doesn’t bunch awkwardly behind your back are all clear winners.
Military Jacket, by Primark, £32
Sunglasses, by Cotton On at ASOS, £12
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12 MAGAZINE
Satin Lined Beanie, by Patt3rn Up LDN, £25
Hand Cream by Rare Beauty, £18
Jacket, by M&S, £65
Bicycle Baddie @chelseaasoflate
Tour de France practicality without actually looking like you’ve entered the Tour de France is a delicate balance. Cropped or neat-legged trousers are your friend here (anything that stays well away from your bike chain) teamed with breathable layers and shoes you can comfortably pedal in. Add a backpack or secure crossbody, plus outerwear that can handle Britain’s inevitable mid-journey drizzle.
Quilted crossbody bag, by Oysho at ASOS, £19.99
Cigarette Jean, by F&F, £22.50
@drewincolor
Boots, by Deichmann, £39.99
SPELL
13 MAGAZINE
BE YOUR OWN TREND Model is wearing The Feme Collection Remi Miracle Crochet in Kinky Straight, colour P4/27/613
Urban French Curl (New Colours)
Feme Weave (Available in Two Bundles)
The Feme Collection Remi Miracle Crochet
NEW ARRIVALS Brands just landed and ready to shop
X-Pression 12x Curly Body Premium Too Blend Feather Crochet
X-Pression Pre-Sectioned
Discover our curated digital hair and beauty boutique today.
Spellbeauty.com @SpellbeautyUK
Free next day delivery* *Visit spellbeauty.com for Terms & Conditions
Photo by Stephen Hill for AvlonUK
NEW ERA
The Avlon’s artistic team explore texture steeped in technique
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COVER STORY
Style switch: Stunning hair transformations are Kiely's forte
From dancing on stage to building a thriving community across beauty, hair, fashion and lifestyle, Starr Kiely has spent years inspiring people with her talent, confidence and authenticity. Like many with textured hair, Kiely didn't always embrace her natural curls. Today, she's passionate about celebrating natural texture and helping others feel confident in their own curl journey. Here, Kiely talks about confidence, curl care, and why partnering with Curlsmith feels like the perfect fit. HOW HAS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CURLS EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS? My relationship with my curls has changed massively. In all honesty, I had a real dislike for my curls when I was younger because I
was always made to feel that curls weren’t pretty, glamorous or socially acceptable. But now I LOVE them. I embrace them, and although it took me years to get to this place, I think loving your curly hair is a journey. I love mine more and more every day.
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HOW HAS EMBRACING YOUR NATURAL CURLS IMPACTED YOUR CONFIDENCE, BOTH ON STAGE AND IN EVERYDAY LIFE? Embracing my curls has genuinely been the making of me. Without sounding dramatic, the moment I
"I’ ll wet my hair in the shower without fully washing it, then use the Curlsmith CurlFit Reviving Mist to refresh my curls. I’ ll gently brush through any knots before reapplying the Curlsmith Weightless Air Dry Cream.” learnt to love my curls, I felt like so many of the insecurities I had around my identity started to disappear. I think, for both women and men, our hair is such a huge part of our identity, so learning to embrace it is one of the best things you can do for yourself. All hair types are beautiful. WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WISH SOMEONE HAD TOLD YOU ABOUT CARING FOR CURLY HAIR WHEN YOU WERE GROWING UP? Leave it alone and don’t put heat on it! It sounds so obvious now, but when you’re younger and experimenting with your hair, you often end up damaging it. I really wish I’d just let it grow naturally and avoided heat until I was older.
WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE YOU MADE WHEN LEARNING TO CARE FOR YOUR HAIR, AND WHAT CHANGED EVERYTHING FOR YOU? Comparing my curls to other people’s was probably my biggest mistake. I had to learn that everyone’s curls are completely different. The moment I stopped comparing myself and started finding the products and routine that worked for my hair, everything changed. It’s a journey, and everyone’s looks different.
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IF YOU COULD GIVE JUST ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO SOMEONE WHO IS STILL LEARNING TO LOVE AND CARE FOR THEIR NATURAL CURLS, WHAT WOULD IT BE? This is such a special question, and one I take really seriously. I’d say embrace your hair. Don’t let anyone tell you whether it’s acceptable or not. Remind yourself every day that your curls are beautiful, and tell other people the same. Curly hair is something to be celebrated, and we should be proud of it.
spell loves FEED YOUR INNER PRODUCT JUNKIE
HIGH NOTES Did you know hair is more porous than skin, and therefore holds scents for longer? That’s why Cécred gets full credit for developing Temple Oud, £51, a rich, woody-floral perfume designed to work with your hair’s chemistry for maximum waftage. Use in-between wash days to give protective styles (braids, locs, twists) a luxury lift of bergamot and sandalwood, or use on clean hair as the final layer after sealing in moisture. Head to spellmagazine.co.uk to read which Cécred products gets the editor’s seal of approval.
FEEL FREE Free. Period. Is on a mission to shake up menstrual care by offering free organic tampons, funded by advertising on the packaging. Founded by Jenna Holmes, the brand’s tampons are made from 100% organic cotton, without fragrance, bleach or pesticides, making conscious period care more accessible. Available to order online in boxes of 35 for just the cost of postage and packaging.
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HANDS ON With cold and flu season in full swing, it’s time to step up the hand sanitizer game. Spiced Pumpkin-tini Hand Sanitizer by Touchland, £10, leaves hands free of bacteria and highly moisturised with its skincare-forward formula. Forget the strong chemical smell too, this festive fragrance is utterly divine!
ED’S CHOICE
HELLO PETAL Becoming a plant parent may be on the bingo card for 2027. The truth is that a few potted plants can enrich your daily life. From the air purifying qualities to the sense of accomplishment you gain from blooming petals, this book outlines the myriads of ways an indoor garden can nurture your mind, body and soul.
FESTIVE SPIRIT Thought music festivals were consigned to summer? Think again. With Detty December and Sole DXB weekender on the horizon, the fragrance of choice is Diesel Only Desire (£36/30ml). Fun, fresh and feminine, you can’t go wrong with this bottle of petal power.
Houseplants for Mind, Body and Soul: How to Grow Your Well-Being With Indoor Greenery by Kitty Greenbrown. Summersdale Publishers.
brands TO BOOKMARK
Hop on the burgundy bandwagon with stylish fashion pieces and accessories
X-PRESSION Curly Body in Colour BG, £8.60
ADIDAS Originals Tokyo Shoes, £75
Focus Time by THE HEAD PLAN, £23
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21 MAGAZINE
DIOR Addict Lip Glow Butter in Black Cherry, £34
3 4
2 5
1
6
Winter tan,
yes please! Carry the glow through all seasons with these tan-tastic buys 1. Bali Body Self Tanning Mousse, £28; 2. St. Moriz Advanced Gradual Self-Tanning Face Mist, £9.99; 3. Odylique Natural Glow Body Lotion, £25; 4. Skin & Tan, Tan & Tone Oil, £23.99; 5. Caribe Tanning Mousse, £25; 6. Tan-Luxe The Body Illuminating Self-tan Drops, £44
“Fake tans for darker complexions are overlooked and underrated, especially in the winter months. But why not get a glow for all seasons? In fact, this is the perfect time of year to focus on glow goals when complexions look dull and need a boost.” Pauline Briscoe, celebrity make-up artist
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23 MAGAZINE
Why everyone’s switching to
Italian curls
for their next braid appointment French curls walked so Italian curls could run Despite the name, Italian curls aren’t about geography so much as aesthetics. They’re a trade term used in the hair industry to describe a very specific kind of curl texture—one that sits neatly between a relaxed wave and full spiral curl. 'It's edgy and elegant and is one of the few protective styles to look a bit more elevated without losing its ease," says celebrity stylist Lorraine Dublin. So, if you're bored with your current braids, here's everything you need know about the trending tendril. WHAT ARE ITALIAN CURLS? Italian curls refer to a premium curl texture available in both synthetic and human bulk hair extensions. "It has a distinct appearance of being two big juicy spirals," says Feme ambassador Aisha Ibrahim. "It has a soft slip, so working with the hair is easy allowing braided sections to transition into flowing curls through the lengths or at the ends." This results in a style that’s glamorous while still looking relaxed and natural. WHAT ARE ITALIAN CURLS USED FOR? Italian curls soften the appearance of traditional braids. It's best used for boho, mermaid and knotless braids, as well as, traditional pick n' drop.
Choosing between the two largely comes down to personal preference. Those looking for a fuller, more defined look may prefer Italian curls, while French curls offer a slightly more understated effect. HOW DO YOU ACHIEVE THE LOOK? Italian curls are created using specialised braiding extension hair. It's rarely done on natural hair. For a full head of braids, most styles require between two and four packs, depending on the desired length and thickness.
ITALIAN CURLS VS FRENCH CURLS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Italian curls and French curls share a similar soft, romantic appearance, but there is one noticeable difference. "Italian curls have tighter, more defined and consistent ringlets, giving the finished hairstyle greater volume and structure. French curls, by comparison, feature looser, more relaxed curls that create an airier, softer finish," explains Ibrahim.
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Because the fibres are often smooth and silky, experienced braiders maintain firm tension during installation to ensure the extensions remain secure within each braid. "Techniques like knotless braids and gradually feeding in hair can lessen tension on scalp," says Dublin. The finished look can be customised with different braid sizes, lengths and colours, making Italian curls suitable for everything from subtle everyday styles to statement looks. HOW DO YOU CARE FOR ITALIAN CURLS?
Like most curly extension styles, Italian curls benefit from regular maintenance to keep them looking fresh. • Every few days, lightly mist the hair with a mixture of water and leavein conditioner to maintain moisture and reduce dryness. • Rather than brushing through the curls, gently separate them with your fingers to minimise tangling while preserving the curl pattern. • Applying a lightweight mousse can also help define the curls, reduce frizz and keep the style looking polished between washes. • Protecting the hair overnight with a silk bonnet or satin pillowcase can further extend the life of the style and reduce friction while sleeping. ARE ITALIAN CURLS WORTH TRYING? If you’re looking to add texture, movement and elegance to your next protective hairstyle, Italian curls are a great choice. Their defined ringlets give you more structure than French curls while still delivering the relaxed, bohemian finish that continues to top hair trends.
URBAN Italian Loose Twist, coming soon
CURL CARE 101 What you need to get the Italian job done
CLARA Define @ Smooth Baby Hair Styling Brush, £7.99
O SO CURLY Satin Scrunchy Set, £10
SPELL
THE DOUX Big Poppa Defining Gel, £13.99
25 MAGAZINE
CECRED Scalp Refreshing Spray, from £17
Photo by Ben Iwara, Unsplash
WORKPLACE
Culture Shock: Why we need to rethink the way we work Culture Blooming author Abi Adamson reveals what really makes a workplace thrive, why so many organisations get it wrong and how we can create environments where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
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Workplace
From bad bosses and burnout to office politics and empty promises, finding a workplace where you can truly thrive can feel impossible. Culture Blooming author Abi Adamson reveals why so many organisations get workplace culture wrong, the red flags to watch out for and what it really takes to create an environment where everyone can flourish. TELL US ABOUT THE JOURNEY OF WRITING CULTURE BLOOMING – WHERE DID THE IDEA COME FROM, AND WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WRITE A BOOK ABOUT IT? My first degree was in film, and the entertainment industry is where I learned how culture really works. I spent years watching enormously talented people get nowhere while others walked through doors that had been held open for them since birth. I moved into HR and talent acquisition thinking I could fix that from the inside, and what I found instead was that the pattern followed me into every industry I touched. The gatekeeping was identical, the paperwork was just better. I wrote the book because I kept delivering the same diagnosis in room after room, and a diagnosis that lives only in a room dies the moment everyone walks out of it. WHY DO YOU THINK SOME WORKPLACES STRUGGLE TO CREATE A POSITIVE CULTURE? The first reason is that they try to create it rather than notice it. Culture is not something an organization launches in the third quarter, it is something already growing, and it is producing exactly what the conditions allow it to produce. The second reason, and this is the one I care most about. Leaders want to own culture the way they own a brand, so they spend their energy policing who belongs instead of asking what becomes possible when everyone is allowed to contribute. WHAT HAVE THE STRONGEST WORKPLACE CULTURES YOU’VE SEEN HAD IN COMMON? The first thing they share is that truth travels upward, and it travels quickly. In
red flags > green flags
n Blame culture and lack of accountability
n Clear internal growth and progression
n Disregard for personal boundaries
n Respected work-life boundaries
n High staff turnover
n Psychological safety with mistakes
strong cultures, somebody relatively junior can say this is not working and the room genuinely takes it seriously. People tend to thrive when the reward they get actually matches what gets said. And this doesn’t always have to be financial. Development, sponsorship, visibility, and genuinely interesting projects are equally, if not, more important. IN YOUR OPINION AND EXPERIENCE, WHAT’S THE BEST WORKPLACE PERK? A manager who is genuinely good at managing, and I would argue everything else is decoration. Nobody in the history of work has stayed in a miserable job because of the snacks, and nobody has ever handed in their notice over the absence of a pingpong table. WE HEAR A LOT ABOUT BURNOUT, QUIET QUITTING AND DISENGAGEMENT. DO YOU THINK THESE ARE INDIVIDUAL PROBLEMS, OR SIGNS THAT WORKPLACE SYSTEMS ARE FAILING? These are system failures, and for me it is not a close call. Framing all of this as individual failure is enormously convenient, because individuals can be sent on resilience training and systems require somebody senior to change something uncomfortable. Quiet quitting is not laziness, it is a fairly accurate response to being told that you matter by an organisation whose behaviour says otherwise.
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IS “WE’RE LIKE A FAMILY HERE” EVER ACTUALLY A GOOD SIGN? Rarely, and I say that as somebody who loves her family. The intention behind the phrase is usually warmth, and the word itself imports something else entirely. Family usually means obligations that you cannot resign from. It means the difficult uncle gets a pass every single Christmas because he is family. What people genuinely want when they reach for that word is belonging and loyalty, both of which are excellent things to want. Call it a team instead. SHOULD PEOPLE HAVE TO SOCIALISE WITH COLLEAGUES OUTSIDE WORK TO GET AHEAD? No, and where it is true, it tells you something has gone wrong in the growing conditions rather than something being wrong with the people. This belongs to what I call Exposure, which is about who gets access to light and opportunity. The fix is unglamorous, which is probably why it gets avoided. Move the decisions back into daylight and into working hours. Socialize with colleagues if you enjoy it, and many people do. It should never be the price of admission. FINISH THE SENTENCE: A HEALTHY WORKPLACE SHOULD NEVER MAKE YOU FEEL… …like you have to leave part of yourself at the door in order to be allowed in. People spend an extraordinary amount of energy performing an acceptable version of themselves at work, and that is energy they could be spending on the actual job. Nobody has ever done their best thinking while simultaneously managing an impression.
Culture Blooming: Nurturing Workplaces Where People Grow by Abi Adamson is published by BerrettKoehler
Don't miss
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Everything you need to know about the hottest ingredient in skincare: PDRN
New report finds major health concerns for Afro hair needs State intervention
Yinrin founder Emmanuel Abimbola talks hair and scalp care, building community, and connecting with his audience
Feme Weave: The affordable weave influencers swear by
Redefining what success looks like both in beauty and in business, founder Roshanne Dorsett, of the cult-hero brand, The Glowcery
Chester Charles shares how Patt3rn Up LDN is combining hair protection, style and community.
What are French curl braids? The elegant hairstyle making a stylish comeback
Can’t decide between a bob and a pixie? Meet the bixie
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28 MAGAZINE
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CERTIFIED CHAMPION OF CURLS
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