1. Tame your beard  

 Summer heat can be a frizzy, sweaty nightmare for your hair and beard. To tame your beard, wash it with a gentle cleanser and warm water two to three times a week.  On the other days, rinse your beard with lukewarm water to keep out sweat and debris. When conditioning, opt for a lightweight balm for your beard that will soften your hair, add shine, and tame stray hairs. Trim and shave regularly to keep your beard looking fresh – a good shaver or beard trimmer (with assorted attachments) is the grooming gift that keeps on giving.  

@beardbrand How I Trim My Beard At Home @roque_80 ♬ original sound – Beardbrand

2. Keep your oral hygiene on point  

Rule of thumb: Brush twice daily and floss every night to prevent a buildup of bacteria, which will help keep your breath fresh. After brushing for two minutes (including your tongue), rinse with a mouthwash for a minty fresh breath. Invest in an electric toothbrush to give those pearly whites a good scrubbing. Did you know you should visit a dentist twice a year for check-ups and cleanings? If you haven’t yet, take this as a reminder to make that appointment ASAP (you’re welcome!).   

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by DJ Willingham (@dj_sneakerhead)

3. Hydrate your skin (from the inside out)  

How do you keep your skin healthy from the inside? Simple – drink water and eat water-rich foods. Staying hydrated helps maintain your skin’s elasticity, improves your complexion, and helps flush out toxins that cause breakouts.   

Don’t underestimate the power of a gentle cleanser daily (morning and evening) – and there’s a face wash to suit any skin type. Exfoliating your skin with a gentle scrub will unclog your pores and keep flaky skin at bay. Then, find a lightweight moisturiser to hydrate your skin daily – bonus points if you get a daytime moisturiser with SPF 30 (or higher).   

@realzack_ Simple skin care routine for the boys 🤞Takes less than 5 minutes and you’ll be glowing 🌟 @LaRochePosayUS @The Ordinary @Cardon @Kiehl’s Since 1851 #skincare #menskincare #menshygiene #mensgrooming #selfcare #improvement ♬ IN YOUR EYES – Snoh Aalegra

4 Keep your feet in top shape 

With all the summer galivanting to the beaches and poolside chilling, it’s easy to neglect your feet. Once a week, take a 30-minute warm soak and exfoliate your feet. A good scrub will help remove dead skin cells. Apply a soothing moisturiser and massage it in well — not only will it keep your skin healthy, but it will also keep your nails strong. If you’re keen to treat yourself, get a pedicure once a month – you’ll be astounded at how good your feet will look (and feel) afterwards. Plus – it’s a relaxing treat you can work into your monthly budget.   

@ramonisrael How To Get Soft Feet 🦶🏼 In The Shower: 🚿 Dove Original Soap Bar Dove Exfoliating Body Polish Foot Scrubbing Tool Naturium Glow Getter Multi- Oil Body Wash @Dove Beauty & Personal Care @SynxBody @Naturium Post Foot Wash: 🧴 Naturium Glow Getter Multi- Oil Body Butter The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Forvr Mood You Remind Me @The Ordinary @FORVR MOOD #footcareroutine #footcaretips #footcare #bodycareroutine #menshygiene ♬ Elevator Vibes – The Brothers Nylon

5 Smell fresh all day (and night) long  

While cologne has a reputation for being heavier than perfume, they do fade more quickly on the skin. So, if you want a scent that’s going to last a little longer, opt for perfume. Explore sweeter notes to bring the summery vibe with fragrances like Versace Eros Energy EDP,  a blend of citrus and amber. Another great summer scent is Dolce&Gabbana Light Blu Capri –  a refreshing blend of spicy and fruity notes.  For a scent that lasts longer, apply a body mist first, then your perfume. As the day goes by, reapply some body mist to keep your scent locked in.  

@whathewantssg Smells like Vacation in a Bottle. #dolcegabbana #lightblue #capriinlove #menperfume #mengroomingroutine #no1mengrooming #newperfume ♬ Swear By It – Chris Alan Lee

Words: Saadiqah Schroeder

Photography:

The post 5 Grooming tips for men this summer   appeared first on TFG Media.

Pursuing a musical career in South Africa is like trying to get a table at your favourite spot on the busiest day – no walk in the park, right? In true Club X style, we’re here to help you navigate your next career move with confidence. The journey will at times feel like you’re getting nowhere slowly (or like you’re navigating rush-hour traffic in Johannesburg, full of twists, turns and the occasional unexpected detour), but hey, that’s all part of the adventure, isn’t it?  

First the good news  

South Africa’s music scene is a melting pot of styles and sounds, rich and ever evolving. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) 2024 report, South Africa was identified as the hub of sub-Saharan Africa’s music industry, with an impressive growth rate of 19.9%.  

This incredible growth calls special attention to the increasing influence and impact of African music on the global stage. From traditional rhythms to Afro house, kwaito, qqom, amapiano and the next big spicy beats we’re sure are being created somewhere as you read this, we can understand why.  

“The figures in this year’s report reflect a truly global and diverse industry, with revenues growincin every market, every region and across virtually every recorded music format,” says John Nolan, IFPI chief financial officer and interim joint head.  

Strategies for success

There is no doubt it’s an exciting time for the music industry, and these positive reports are sure to give budding hit-makers an extra boost of hope. But to successfully navigate the business and its challenges (nobody said it was going to be easy), you need to have some useful strategies:  

1. Education is key
Educate yourself about copyright laws, industry practices, royalties and the business side of music. Organisations like SAMRO offer resources and workshops for aspiring musicians.  

2. Capitalise on digital platforms
Take advantage of YouTube, TikTok, Spotify, Instagram and SoundCloud to showcase your music and connect with fans. Cultivating a strong online presence not only increases your fan following but can attract industry recognition.  

3. Network and connect
Attend events and connect with like-minded people as much as possible. Forming relationships with industry experts can lead to new opportunities.  

4. Seek professional guidance
Consider working with reputable managers or lawyers with a clear understanding of the industry landscape, who will happily share their knowledge and insights with you, and have your back.  

5. Be persistent and remain resilient
In this industry, it is important to be patient and persevere. Take each obstacle in your stride, be prepared for rejection and criticism, and keep striving to perfect your craft. Don’t lose sight of the love you have for making music; stay authentic and your time will come.   

Challenges faced by artists  

• Financial Constraints  

According to Music in Africa, limited funding is frequently cited as a major hurdle for emerging artists across the continent. It can be hard to make a living from music.   

• Visibility and Exposure  

Artists are in constant competition for a moment in the spotlight as they navigate streaming platforms and digital-marketing strategies to effectively reach their audience. They also need to secure gigs, events and venues in which to play live to grow their audience.   

• Navigating Industry Structures  

The South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) reports that new and emerging artists encounter difficulties in safeguarding their intellectual property and understanding their rights.  

• Networking and Collaboration  

Building relationships and forming connections with the right people – such as producers, managers and promoters – may be challenging without established networks.  

“The figures in this year’s report reflect a truly global and diverse industry, with revenues growincin every market, every region and across virtually every recorded music format”

Tips to avoid getting screwed over  

• Know your worth 
  
• Read the fine print  
• Set clear boundaries  
• Avoid rushing into agreements  
• Seek legal advice  
• Protect your intellectual property  
• Network authentically  
• Stay updated on industry trends  
• Diversify your income  

Words by: Shanaaz Petersen 
Photo: Gallo/Getty Images 

The post How to navigate SA’s music industry  appeared first on TFG Media.

Velvet dresses 

Velvet is a luxurious fabric that’s perfect for winter events. It’s warm, elegant and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Opt for deep jewel tones like emerald green, burgundy or navy blue. It not only suits the winter season but adds colour to the usual black or grey choice. 

@weeding_dresses_dubai velvet fabric slim fit dress! #velvet #slimfit #gown #newyear #year2024 #eve #trending #viral #designer #2024bride #fypシ #foryou ♬ Happy New Year 2024 – Pasrah Instrumental

Long-sleeved gowns 

A long-sleeved gown is both practical and stylish for a winter wedding. It offers extra coverage and warmth without compromising on elegance. Look for dresses with lace or sheer sleeves for a touch of romance. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ankara/ African Print Fashion – Ready to Wear, Bespoke, Fabrics (@ankaraexclusive)

Maxi dresses 

Maxi dresses are ideal for winter weddings as they provide coverage and elegance. Choose a dress with intricate details such as sequins or embroidery to add a festive flair. Pair it with a statement necklace or earrings to complete the look.  

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Yasmin ✨ (@yasminsun)

Jumpsuits 

For a modern twist, consider a chic jumpsuit. Jumpsuits are stylish, comfortable and offer a unique alternative to traditional dresses. Whether you go for jewel tones or bold hues, pair your jumpsuit with elegant accessories for an understated and elegant look. 

@abimbolajae Shop jazzie jumpsuit😍 colors black, green, red #foryou #foryoupage #fashion #ootd #switchitup #fyp #viralvideos #viral #trending #jumpsuit ♬ original sound – Immaculate Vibez

Accessories 

Finish off your look with the right accessories. Think elegant scarves, chic gloves, and sophisticated hats. These not only add warmth but also bring an extra layer of style to your ensemble. 

@oohthought #partyoutfit #gloves #blackdress #tiktokfind #bundle #fypシ #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp ♬ original sound – _oliveee08_

Photography: Pexels

The post 5 Fabulous fits as a winter wedding guest appeared first on TFG Media.

Penny Heyns

Penny Heyns is celebrated for her extraordinary swimming career. At the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, she became the first woman to win gold in both the 100m and 200m breaststroke events. And she broke the world record for women’s 50m breaststroke in 1999, with a time of 30.83 seconds. Her remarkable achievements solidified her status as one of the greatest swimmers of all time. 

Caster Semenya 

Caster Semenya is a middle-distance runner known for her dominance in the 800m event. She won gold at the 2012 London Olympics and again at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Although faced with many challenges, especially surrounding her sex, Caster’s resilience and exceptional talent have made her a global icon in athletics. 

Bridgitte Hartley

Bridgitte Hartley made history by winning a bronze medal in the women’s K-1 500m canoe sprint at the 2012 London Olympics. She became the first South African to win an Olympic medal in canoeing, showcasing her dedication and skill in the sport.  

Elana Meyer

Elana Meyer is a legendary long-distance runner who won a silver medal in the 10,000m at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Her inspiring performance paved the way for future generations of South African female athletes in long-distance running. 

Zola Budd

Zola Budd gained international fame for her signature barefoot running style and swift moving. She competed in the 1984 and 1992 Olympics, making her mark in the 3,000m event. Budd’s unique approach and athletic prowess continue to inspire athletes worldwide. 

Photography: Instagram

Words: Siphosethu Ndabezimbi

The post 5 legendary SA women who competed in the Olympics appeared first on TFG Media.

Since 2022, the term ‘delulu’ has gained popularity on social media platforms like TikTok, and is now widely used as slang for ‘delusional’. There’s been an influx of posts made by #delulugirls who believe that “delulu is the solulu” and who encourage “delulu until it comes trululu”. Most people spamming For You pages with delulu posts are 18 to 24 years old. Looks like a lot of new born adults are in their delulu phase… 

Origin story  

Many view the Delulu Land trend with concern, and like every villain, it has an origin story. The term ‘delulu’ comes from K-pop fandom (since 2014) and was originally used to criticise the beliefs and theories fans had about K-pop artists. With the tidal wave of Korean culture in the last few years – music, series, food, beauty – it’s no surprise it’s gained popularity. 

Down the rabbit hole  

The delulu trend promotes believing that something is true even when all signs are pointing elsewhere. At first glance, the trend is light-hearted and initially revolved around romance. A Delulu Land inhabitant would interpret ghosting as a sign that their crush was falling hard for them and ghosted them out of fear of heartbreak. Or believe their beloved doesn’t post you on social media because you’re so hot that they’re afraid someone will steal you from them. 

In essence, it comes down to painting a self-protective narrative for yourself that’s easier to digest than the harsh reality. The memes, while laughable, have become an unavoidable part of modern discourse. Social media users are even applying this concept of being to other aspects of life. For one, Gen Zs have used the notion of being delulu to make light of discouraging work environments.  

For example, the expectation that being good at your job and working overtime will result in a big salary increase or promotion when, instead, you’ll just be given more responsibility for being efficient. It can also give one a confidence boost, like believing that you’re not getting a promotion because your manager is threatened by you. But we all know how toxic and counterproductive this type of thinking can be… 

On the other hand, a lot of Gen Z professionals are behaving like the employees they aspire to be – whether that means acting as though they’re in a more senior job position, or envisioning that they have gotten a promotion that isn’t entirely in their control – or bank account. The idea is that Gen Zers are manifesting their ideal occupations and inviting raises and promotions by living out their aspirations and being ‘delulus’.  

One could say that this is a type of positive thinking and optimism. Ever heard the saying, “I’ll see it when I believe it”? Gen Z is simply putting intention into their work and, with any chance, manifesting those thoughts into reality. This is a sign of good work performance and ambition, which some would argue is much better than the usual negative self-talk. 

However, delusions related to work environments can cause individuals to remain in a cycle of exploitation or prevent them from pursuing opportunities elsewhere. Holding on to romantic delusions (‘delusionships’) can lead to obsession and stalking your crush, or ignoring red flags in a relationship. It’s good to have a positive attitude, but it’s important to manage expectations and acknowledge situations for what they are. The first step is leaving Delulu Land… 

Is delulu taboo? 

Some view ‘delulu’ as an able-ist slur, claiming it trivialises a serious mental-health issue. Delusional disorder (previously called paranoid disorder) is a type of mental illness or psychotic disorder where people have delusions due to misinterpreting situations or having false memories.  

“Delusions are characterised by an unshakeable belief in things that are not true and, in many cases, there is a continued belief in the delusion despite evidence to the contrary,” says Amy Morin, a psychotherapist and author. 

“Delusions are common symptoms of some psychotic disorders. They may occur along with hallucinations, which involve perceiving something that isn’t really there, like hearing voices or feeling bugs crawling on your skin,” she continues.  

“It’s also important to recognise that not all delusions are the same. Some delusions might involve non-bizarre beliefs that could theoretically occur in real life, such as believing that your spouse is cheating on you. Other delusions are bizarre, fantastical or impossible, like thinking that you are responsible for the fate of the world… 

Amy says it’s important for anyone experiencing delusional thinking to seek professional help. However, this can be challenging, since people experiencing delusions often don’t think of their beliefs as a problem. 

Words by: Sahrah Enous 

Photography: Gallo/Getty Images

The post Living in delulu land appeared first on TFG Media.

Molecule Magnilied 165 Billion Times  

Wonder: The Atomium  

Location: Brussels, Belgium  

This iconic 102-metre structure and its giant reflective spheres dominate the surrounding park. However, the design inspiration for this modern edifice includes elements so small they are invisible to the naked eye.  

The Atomium, designed by architects Andre and Jean Polak and engineer Andre Waterkeyn and built in 1958 for the World’s Fair, represents a molecule of solidified iron magnified 165 billion times. Each of the nine spheres, representing atoms, are 18 metres in diameter and are evenly spaced 30 metres away from each other.  

The steel sculpture has become a famous attraction in Belgium, but it was only designed to be a temporary feature. For the short-term fair, the spheres were built using aluminium sheets, but were renovated in 2004 using longer lasting stainless steel.  

The World’s Fair was the first in a series to be held following World War II and was an international exhibition to showcase national achievements. The Atomium structure remained permanently as a re-minder of how science, and something as small as an atom, can hold a great impact on the planet.  

Post-war there was wide-spread belief that science could be used to improve lives instead of destroying them, and this structure serves as a reminder of the peaceful applications of the atom. The war had led to the development of nuclear weapons, with atomic bombs proving the large-scale and catastrophic impact of atoms.  

But nuclear technology can also be used to serve humanity through new systems and cures. The Atomium symbolised, and continues to symbolise, peace. Today the Atomium is one of Brussels’ most popular tourist attractions, welcoming 600,000 people a year.  

Visitors can marvel at the external structure or venture inside some of the spheres to experience panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, navigating between the atoms through giant tubes.  

Inside the cubic crystal  

Five of the Atomium’s nine atoms can be entered by visitors  

1 Food with a view  

Level 8, in the top sphere, is the site of a 100-metre-high restaurant.  

2 Panorama 360  

Level 7, at an altitude of 92 metres, provides a panoramic view of Brussels. 

3 Changing content 

Temporary exhibitions have been showcased in these spheres, remaining for a year or two.  

4 Night lights 

More than 2 970 LEDs illuminate the structure when the sun goes down. 

5 Connecting stairs 

Stairs and escalators connect the spheres that aren’t accessed by elevator 

6 RockGrowth 808 

A nine-metre-tall red steel sculpture. Its mirrored arms reflect light from the Atomium to represent the power of atomic-force microscopes. 

7 Ascending the atoms  

A central elevator carries visitors straight to the top sphere. 

8 First exhibition 

This permanent exhibition features the history and purpose of the Atomium itself. 

9 Events sphere 

This area is not open to general visitors but can be rented out for a range of private events. 

10 Practical atoms 

Four spheres can’t be accessed for safety reasons. 

Tower’s Giant Golden Heart  

Wonder: Taipei 101  

Location: Taipei, Taiwan   

Building a 101-storey tower block might seem brave in an area with high seismic activity. However, Taipei 101 — which held the title of the world’s tallest building between 2004 and 2009 — has built-in earthquake and typhoon resistance.  

 At its tallest point, Taipei 101 reaches 508 metres, and at its base 380 concrete-filled steel piles are buried tightly in the soil up to 80 metres deep. This provides structural stability during the events of an earthquake or strong typhoon winds.  

But by far the most mesmerising safety feature hangs at the top of the structure — a giant golden ball. Called a mass tuned damp-er, this 660-tonne suspended steel ball dampens any vibrations that are caused by earthquakes or strong winds and steadies the swaying building as the floor and air around it moves.  

 The damper, which is the world’s largest, is visible to visitors from viewing platforms within the building. Entering above the 87th floor will make any person feel small in the presence of the tower’s golden heart.  

Ensuring stability (link to infographic)  

How does the golden damper keep this building steady above the Pacific Ring of Fire fault lines?  

1 Metal frames  

Frames contain the mass damper for safety but provide room for swinging.  

 2 Cables  

The mass damper is suspended by strong 42-metre-long cables.  

3 Hydraulic pumps  

These components turn kinetic energy into heat, serving as shock absorbers.  

4 Clamping  

The ball is secured so that it can move up to 1.5 metres in any direction.  

5 Mass block  

The 660,000-kilogram sphere moves in the opposite direction to the building, reducing sway by 40 per cent.  

6 Positioning  

The mass damper is located at the top of the building where there is the most displacement during an earthquake or strong winds.  

7 Viewing platforms  

Between floors 87 and 91, visitors can view the large ball. 

Lucky Eight 

The number eight is lucky in Chinese culture, and this is just one element of local culture that’s reflected in the building’s design. There are eight clearly differentiated sections of the tower, each with eight storeys.  

In Chinese the word eight is pronounced ‘ba’, similar to the character ‘fa’, which means ‘well-off’. This has led to the number being associated with wealth in Chinese culture. On the side of the building, each section also features a large, traditional Chinese symbol that can be seen from the ground.  

Reclaimed archipelago  

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE  

Branching from Dubai’s shoreline into its turquoise waters, the Palm Jumeirah islands in Dubai represent the shape of a palm tree within an incomplete circle. This artwork isn’t a formation of nature, but part of an artificial archipelago known as the Palm Islands.  

The foundations for these islands came from the surrounding sand and rock. First, 7 million tonnes of rock were exported to the site from the nearby Hajar Mountains to form a strong base from giant rock slabs.  

Next, a huge 92 million cubic metres of sand was dredged from the bottom of the ocean of the Persian Gulf and sprayed into place to form the island’s unique shape. The result of this six-year effort was an extra 50 miles of coastline added to Dubai.   

On the trunk of the island are mostly apartments and shops, while hotels and re-sorts surround them on the outer crescent. The crescent is divided into three sections for the circulation of seawater not to be disrupted. 

Only a few years after the island was completed, by 2017 more than 10,000 people called Palm Jumeirah home. There are two additional palm islands -Palm Deira and Palm Jebel Ali – but Palm Jumeirah remains the only finished project of the three. 

Eco-friendly Arcology  

Wonder: The Agora Garden  

Location: Taipei, Taiwan  

A DNA molecule is a source of life. It carries all the information for the development and proper function of living organisms. It’s apt that this molecule is the inspiration for the shape of the Agora Garden.  

This is a residential tower designed to restore life to our planet through eco-friendly technology and carbon-reducing lifestyles. Designed by Belgian architect Vincent Callebaut and completed in 2018, this 93-metre-tall building combines urban life with natural habitats so that the two cannot just coexist but support each other.  

The height of the tower limits the occupied ground space, while plenty of plants serve as a carbon-absorbing city ecosystem for wildlife. Residents of this tower block have balconies packed with plants, including vegetable gardens and fruit trees.  

This encourages residents to grow their own food, and all their biodegradable waste is composted. With a luxury swimming pool, gym facilities and a rooftop clubhouse, this modern tower demonstrates how achieving low energy consumption and following a climate-conscious way of life doesn’t necessarily require a simple lifestyle.  

In his design proposal, architect Callebaut made his goals clear: In the heart of Taipei, after having built the city on the landscape, after having then built the city on the city, it is now time for the landscape to rebuild itself on the city.”  

Carbon-absorbing architecture 

Many features of this luxurious twisted tower help make it a self-contained ecosystem.  

1 Fixed centre 

The structure is a cross between a single tower and twin towers. 

2 Green mountain 

An area of around 6 000 square metres is covered by plants, making the total green coverage of the building’s floor space 246 per cent. 

3 Open-air gardens 

The 21 floors twist around the central column by 90 degrees, providing open-air space above every balcony. 

4 Car elevator  

Four high-speed elevators and one car elevator carry people and their vehicles to every level. 

5 Photovoltaic roof 

At  a height of 100 metres, this 1 000-square-metre platform uses sunlight to produce electricity for residents. 

6 Sky garden 

Rainwater is filtered and purified here to be used within the building. 

The Agora Garden is locally known as Toa Zhu Yuan 

60-Storey Dam

Wonder: Hoover Dam  

Location: Arizona-Nevada border  

Even without knowing the history behind the Hoover Dam’s origins, the size of this giant water levee is enough to inspire awe. Even today, building a dam the height of a 60-storey building across one of North America’s biggest rivers would be technically challenging.  

And when the Hoover Dam was being constructed between 1930 and 1936, it was the largest dam ever built. The Colorado River, which stretches 1,400 miles from Colorado’s Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of California, was once faster flowing, more direct and very unpredictable.  

It caused sudden flooding and regularly left the surrounding lands in drought. To convert the river into a reliable water source for the drier southwest region of the US, the Hoover Dam was built. Construction commenced during the Great De-pression, resulting in thousands of people travelling many miles to the Hoover Dam looking for employment.   

Workers scaled the rocky can-yon, inserting dynamite into the rock by hand to break away the foundations. Despite the treacherous working conditions, which caused around 100 men to fall to their deaths, the Colorado River was eventually tamed by the dam. Today this dam is one of the world’s largest hydroelectric power plants.  

 

The dam is named after US President Herbert Hoover, who provided funds for construction

Hydroelectric Hoover Dam  

How does this historic construction function?  

1 Dam  

Over 3,300,000 cubic metres of concrete makes up the dam.  

2 Intake towers  

These four concrete structures control the water supply that reaches the power plant turbines.  

3 Spillway inlet  

To prevent flooding, any overflowing water enters spillways eight metres below the dam’s top.  

 4 Penstocks  

Water travels through steel pipes known as penstocks to the powerhouse.   

5 Powerhouse  

Water passes through turbines at speeds of 85 miles per hour. A generator turns this kinetic energy into electricity.  

6 Valve houses  

These components are built about 55 metres above the river level to monitor the release of water through outlets.  

Five Impacts of The Dam  

Farmland irrigation  

The dam holds enough water to irrigate 2 million acres of land.  

Water control  

Water can be contained or released to prevent floods and droughts.  

Hydroelectric power  

1.3 million people use electricity from the dam each year.  

Altered ecosystems  

As water is used and stored by the dam, water levels in the Colorado River have lowered. Local plant life has reduced to benefit areas further away.  

City Growth  

Branching out the Colorado River has resulted in the development of cities such as Los Angeles and Las Vegas.  

The post Architectural Wonders Of The World appeared first on TFG Media.

Use paint to add personality

A coat of paint can make a big impact in your home. Spruce up your living room with a pop of colour or add a bit of drama to your bedroom with a dark accent wall. Don’t be scared of a small space – it can take a lick of colour too. According to designer furniture store owner Martin Waller, small rooms benefit most from a dramatic colour scheme.  

Make plants part of your decor

Plants are a budget-friendly way to introduce colour and texture to your space. Plants lend a room a calm aesthetic, and they also add a breath of fresh air, literally. Don’t have a green thumb? Get artificial plants. The ones currently in stores look extremely authentic so only the keenest eye will note any difference.  

Update your decor with soft furnishings

Instead of buying a new sofa, spruce up your existing one by updating your scatter cushions and adding a throw. Piling pillows and comforters in an assortment of colours and textures on your bed is the secret to making your boudoir look lush and cosy (thank you, Pinterest). If the clean lines of a boutique hotel room are more your vibe, choose light and bright colours for cushions during summer and spring and darker, moodier tones that will add warmth during autumn and winter.  

Make a gallery wall your feature

Gallery walls are the talk of the town right now, and they are pretty easy to pull together using prints, art pieces, stencils and pictures of your loved ones. Before you start knocking nails into the wall, arrange your different items on the floor until you are satisfied with the mix of shapes and sizes. Play around with paint, too. Painting your frames in a mix of mismatched tones will give you a quirky and fun display. If it’s a sophisticated finish you’re after, paint the frames and the wall the same colour.   

Words: Gaynor Siljeur

Photography by: Shutterstock, Pexels

Also read: 2022 Top Décor Trend: Embracing The Curves

The post Four Savvy Home Decorating Ideas for a Tight Budget  appeared first on TFG Media.

 How to accentuate your hips

Your hips don’t lie, and you know it! Opt for body-con dresses or snug-fitting styles. Use slim belts to cinch in your waist and emphasise your hips better. and pair skinny stretch jeans with a bodysuit, sneakers or heels and a confident attitude for a winning combo.  

How to elongate your legs

Whether you’re short or tall, elongating the look of your legs is something many aim to achieve. A pair of short shorts coupled with a pair of wedges or platform espadrilles is a great look for summer. When buying jeans, choose high-waisted or cropped to give your legs a lengthened look. Roll the ends of your long pants up once or twice to form a cuff exposing your ankles. Your ankles are generally the thinnest part of your leg and exposing them helps to slim down and elongate your look.

How to flatten your tummy

Before you get into your outfit: wear underwear that fits just right. Underwear too small or too big can create unsightly lines below your clothing and draws attention to your mid-section. Choose clothes in heavier materials that lay flat against your skin. Shapewear is also a miracle creation and creates a seamless silhouette beneath your outfit. Choose darker colours or patterns with thin vertical stripes – an optical illusion that works in your favour.  

How to cover your arms

Many people have a love-hate (or hate-hate) relationship with their upper arms. It’s easy to cover up this insecurity during winter, but when the heat rises it gets a little trickier. Choose tops in lightweight fabrics that have ¾, eyelet, batwing or balloon sleeves. Choose breezy shirts that can be easily rolled up without it looking scruffy. Boleros, stoles or kimonos are suitable for summer and easy to throw over a strappy summer dress or a jeans-and-vest combo. 

Words by: Lynette Botha 

Photography: Getty Images, Shutterstock, Pexels

The post The Best Ways To Dress For Your Body    appeared first on TFG Media.

Dell Latitude 7330

The hallmarks of Dell’s business-focused Latitude range are a more conservative approach to design, features and specifications. The upside is that you end up with a much more reliable machine that will usually outlast more flashy models, handling the rough and tumble of the mobile work style with ease and looking darn good doing it. The stylish, all-aluminium Latitude 7330 is close to the top of the range, and sports the latest i7 processor complemented by a massive 32 GB of RAM and a full 1 TB of fast SSD storage. This puts it on par with most serious gaming laptops, but you won’t be gaming on this machine, obviously. Instead the Latitude range is optimised for serious business users so it’s set up for peak security, long battery life, high reliability and worldwide tech support – all traits the business executive values most.

It conforms to Intel’s very latest Evo specification for peak performance with power economy and comes with some neat extras such as software security features, which make the machine almost unhackable, and settings to thwart anyone screen watching over your shoulder. It still has legacy ports such as good old USB-A and HDMI for plugging in monitors and projectors, but that’s matched by two USB-C ports too. Our test model was the 2-in-1 convertible with a sharp 13.3” touchscreen covered in toughened Gorilla Glass 6. The screen folds flat, as expected and does the usual screen gymnastics, allowing you to use the PC as a tablet.  A nod to the new work style means there’s a full-HD camera supported by two noise-reducing mics. Unfortunately, the kill switch for the webcam is poorly placed in the notch used to open the laptop, where you are more likely to accidentally reactivate the cam.You’re paying handsomely for all these refinements, of course, but if you’re the dealmaker, you’re likely well worth it. Otherwise there’s very little to fault this supremo workhorse laptop.

13.3” touchscreen, i7 (12th gen), 32 GB RAM, Iris Xe, 1 TB storage, 2× USB-C, 1× USB-A, HDMI 2.0, 4G SIM slot, 307 × 200 × 16 mm, 1.36 kg, R40 000

Nokia XR20 

One of the best handsets for butterfingers and phone abusers, the Nokia XR20 claims to be nearly indestructible. Certainly, it easily shrugged off our drop tests and our prolonged water submersions, and came up smiling. Naturally it’s water- and dust-proofed to the highest industry standard, which is IP68, but it also conforms to the tough MIL-STD-810H military standard for extreme temperatures, drops onto hard surfaces and sustained vibrations, for example.In hand it feels slightly more streamlined than a phone in a serious protective cover. That’s because it’s a sturdy aluminium frame set in tough plastic bumpers all round, with a hard-wearing, textured plastic back cover.

It feels far more pleasant to hold than any rugged phone cover we’ve used because the phone and its protection feel properly integrated, without extra millimetres added to every side of the device. It is still chunky, though, and on the heavier side at 248 g. The large 6.67” screen is covered with the toughest Corning Gorilla Glass Invictus, which can still get scratched up, but is much harder to shatter on impact. We enjoyed the stereo speakers, the headphone jack, microSD storage and the side-mounted fingerprint sensors (although the positioning of the oversized Google Assistant on the opposite side was decidedly ill-conceived). But for the price of the XR20, you might feel a little short-changed by the average hardware including the decidedly mid-range Snapdragon 480 processor, and the merely adequate 48 MP camera (plus a 13 MP wide angle), and below par fast charging.

 For some time Nokia’s messaging has been around extending its phones’ life-span by providing at least three years of Android upgrades, and that idea has now been extended to making the phone itself more durable too. It’s a tricky equation to balance in a marketplace where users are used to regular phone replacements bringing new and improved features. But for those involved in hard-wearing, industrial environments and for the klutzes who are condemned to living for months with water damage and broken screens, the rugged XR20 might be a worthwhile investment. The rest of us will just invest in a decent cover.

6.67” display, 6 GB RAM, 8 MP / 48 MP + 13 MP wide cameras, 128 GB, IP68 dust/water-resistant, 18 W fast charge, 248 g, R11 000

WD Passport Go 

WD has made it both trendy and practical to pack full-sized solid state drives into lightweight, pocketable shapes. The Passport Go weighs just 50 grams but it stores up to 1 TB of data in about a space little bigger than a bank card, but surrounds it in a rubberised border that absorbs rough treatment and drops of up to two metres while keeping your precious data safe from harm. And the USB cable is permanently attached and folds up into its own storage compartment on the casing, so there’s nothing to lose or leave behind. It uses a traditional USB-A plug but transfers data impressively quickly at speeds close to USB-C, and it’s compatible with older PCs and Macs too. 

500 GB, 95 × 67 × 10 mm, 55 g, R 1 700

Dell 5570 Precision Workstation

The term ‘workstation’ denotes PCs that are used for manipulating large amounts of data, usually with professional-grade graphics output. Workstations are used for architectural, technical and artistic drawing, which are often rendered as 3D models, or even as animations. Unsurprisingly, workstations have very serious graphics processing onboard, which usually exceeds that of gaming PCs because the results have to be mathematically precise, and you pay a good bit extra for that. Fully loaded mobile workstations such as the Dell 5570 Precision allow technical professionals to work in the field, at a client, or on the road.

Build quality on the 5570 Precision is excellent as you would expect of a high-end professional machine. Despite the raw power under the hood, courtesy of the latest i7 (12th gen) processor, the machine is still remarkably compact with a very slim profile of less than 1 cm thick. Inevitably, with a low-profile design you lose your legacy ports like traditional USB ports and HDMI Out, in favour of USB-C. This model offers three USB-C ports (two with Thunderbolt capable), which includes multiple monitor support. The optional docking station adds back three USB-A ports and HDMI Out for working in comfort at your desk. Inevitably the ultra-high definition (4K) 15” screen is gorgeous, but we feel it will prove too small for intensive graphic work where tools quickly clutter the screen, even though this is an obvious trade-off against portability.

More concerning is the lack of a number pad on the keyboard deck. This is used extensively for calculations and applying effects. But the 5570 Precision can’t be faulted for its technical rendering chops. We installed a number of industry-standard tools, and set it to render a high-polygon landscape visualisation. We were not disappointed. The professional grade Nvidia RTX A2000, with 8 GB VRAM, rendered our scene with barely a whisper from the system fans.  This machine displays none of the high-revving fan noise that we associate with gaming and runs almost silently, even under heavy load. The  5570 Precision is truly a beast in terms of raw processing power, and would work a treat for manipulating big files in client meetings for example, but the lack of legacy ports does bother us since data storage, drawing tools and other peripherals are pretty standard USB devices in the creative work environment.   

15” 4K screen, i7 (12th gen), Nvidia RTX A2000 8 GB, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB storage, 3× USB-C (2× Thunderbolt), 4-way speakers, 344 × 230 × 9 mm, 2.1 kg, R46 000

Photography: Courtesy Images

The post Premium Lifestyle Gadgets appeared first on TFG Media.

Firstly, the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition has a 6.8-inch display in comparison to the 6-inch screen on the cheaper model. You also won’t be plagued with ads and you’ll get 32GB of storage, up from 8GB on the basic Paperwhite.

When it comes to the display, the Signature Edition has a matte coating with 300ppi and a 16-level greyscale. Words and numbers look precise and sharp in a very clear, uncomplicated font. It’s a really pleasurable experience reading on the screen and you can even see it in bright sunlight because it doesn’t suffer from glare. It’s also easy on the eyes because the backlight automatically adjusts itself based on the lighting around you, switching between white and warm lights, as well as increasing or decreasing the brightness level.

Made from 60% post-consumer recycled plastics, it has black bezels surrounding its screen that are thick enough to hold without touching the screen but thin enough that the e-reader still looks sleek and compact. It weighs 207g (about the same as a phone) so it’s small and light enough to easily hold onehanded, plus the rubber backing makes it grippy enough to not slide out of your hands. It’s waterproof as well, with a rating of IPX8.

You’ll be able to store thousands and thousands of books on the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition thanks to its 32GB of storage. That’s the major benefit of this versus the cheaper Kindle Paperwhite, which only has 8GB of storage. Bookworms rejoice!

6.8″ screen (lit), 300ppi, 32GB storage, IPX8 waterproof, 10 weeks battery claimed, wifi/BT, 174 x 125 x 8 mm, 208g, R4000

>> Back to tablet buying guide

The post Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition review appeared first on TFG Media.