While we ponder what to buy this season, designers in Europe are showing what will be hot for summer in 2012.

Is SPF15 enough protection in our natural skincare products?

Julia Kingham relishes design that pushes the boundaries.

Wise up for the warmer weather with informed sun care choices.

Whether they're retro or quirky, cutting-edge or glamorous, the right sunglasses will transform your look. Don't be timid when it comes to your shades this summer, make a statement.

Time to get casual, with our summer checklist - easy pieces that will form the backbone of your holiday wardrobe.

Mecca Cosmetica has become the New Zealand stockists of Diptyque, the cult French candlemaker.

Actress turned director Sophie Roberts lets Viva in on her style secrets.

When a champagne house can name Marie Antoinette and Marilyn Monroe as fans, you'd think the brand couldn't get any more glamorous - then they announce a collaboration with shoe designer Christian Louboutin.

Fashion has rejected its current minimalist aesthetic and heartily embraced colour.

Get ready to be entertained by some Japanese culinary theatrics.

Pop artists have been involved in clothing lines for a while, but now indie rock bands are getting in on the action - and not always with successful results. Viva charts some of the failures.

The humble and versatile egg lends itself to many different cuisines and recipes.

Forget the frocks, this year hair and makeup rocks.

Environmental artist Martin Hill says he tends to get more pleasure from personal experiences than from tangible objects.

A new book about Coco Chanel captures the spirit of the great designer. Here Viva explores how Chanel revolutionised women's fashion, and why, even 25 years after Karl Lagerfeld took over, the label remains as iconic as ever.

The current passion for purple gives plenty of choice for nails without going garish.

Australian retail analyst Robert Buckingham is in New Zealand to share his insights on global fashion trends.

Don't restrict yourself to just one colour or style of wine - there are plenty of others which will suit your palate.

Yoghurt is a great snack but also a highly versatile cooking ingredient and, what's more, it's good for you.

A new Argentinian restaurant shows promise - if it can get the basics right.

Executive chef of Sydney's Aria Restaurant and judge of Australia's Master Chef Matt Moran will be the star guest at Taste of Auckland in November. He chats to Viva.

Dancer Mary Jane O'Reilly tells Viva about her precious keepsakes.

Film-maker Ryan Murphy felt a strong connection with Liz Gilbert's Eat Pray Love.