NORTH WEST FASHION & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
WINTER 2013/14 ISSUE 05
Exclusives with
VFNO ALEXANDRA SHULMAN EMILY SHEFFIELD A/W13 TRENDS
ELIZA DOOLITTLE WILL.I.AM NICK WECHSLER
THE
WINTER Issue
porsche design heritage
Silverberg Opticians 40 Whitechapel, Liverpool, L1 6DZ 0151 709 2012 www.silverbergopticians.co.uk
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La Vida Magazine Suite 101 Barclay House 35 Whitworth St. West Manchester M1 5NG info@itslavida.com www.itslavida.com Publisher Abanoob Anton Managing Director Andreas Anastasiou Managing Editor Athina Macpherson Associate Publisher Nikos Norman Account Managers Alyesha Sayle Joshua Tyson Tom Brookes Features Editor Jsky Junior Lifestyle Editor Mariana Cerqueira Writers Emily Mulenga Hannah Munday Holly Brooke Jaiden Micheal Omid Pourmohamad Sabina Emrit Media Developer Andy Wheeldon Circulation Manager Didi Anastasiou Photographers Dave Alexander Hanna Hillier Mike Brits La Vida TV Resolution Visuals Creative Director Athina Macpherson Creative Designers Charlie Wood Robyn Hislop Sean Park La Vida Media Group Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. Whilst every effort is taken, prices and product details are subject to change at any time; La Vida Magazine Ltd. take no responsibility for omission’s or errors. We respectfully reserve the right to publish and edit any articles at any time.
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WOMEN’S FASHION 10 FEMALE EDITORIAL SHOOT Our fashion feature girl runs amok with some of the fiercest combinations and trends for this festive season. 20 WOMEN’S FASHION TRENDS Adopt some of the hottest female fashion trends this season by doing it like a man and going androgynous; invest in an oh-so fabulous turtleneck; perk up your winter wardrobe with winter blooms; get your rebellious side out as punk-meets-grunge, fake your fur and wrap up warm with the best cover-ups.
FEATURES 30 ELIZA DOOLITTLE La Vida speaks exclusively to the fabulous and one-of-a-kind Eliza Doolittle who has taken both the music industry and fashion world by storm. 34 SVE Manchester born fashion design, Sally Ellis, takes some time out from designing to speak to us about her bespoke fashion brand ‘Sve’. 36 FRANCESCA NEWMAN-YOUNG Exclusive interview with Made in Chelsea’s Francesca Newman-Young. 47 WILL.I.AM Interview with super producer, Black Eyed Peas frontman and songwriter will.i.am. 58 NICK WECHSLER TV heartthrob Nick Wechsler talks exclusively to La Vida about Revenge, fashion and Hollywood. 62 DR. BEAUTIFUL We speak to leading cosmetic surgeon, owner of Le Beau Ideal and ‘Picasso of Botox’, Dr. Esho, about the thriving cosmetic industry. 74 EMILY SHEFFIELD La Vida meets Vogue’s Deputy Editor, Emily Sheffield, at the Vivienne Westwood King Street store during VFNO. 88 THE FRAGRANCE KITCHEN La Vida speaks to the ultimate ‘Sheikh of Chic’, Sheikh Majed Al Sabah, the man behind The Fragrance Kitchen. 106 NOMFUSI ‘Woman of the world’, Nomfusi, spoke to La Vida in an exclusive interview about her life, her role as ‘Mama Africa’ and her music. 109 SHAYNE WARD Shayne Ward talks to La Vida about moving back to the North West and working on his new album.
MEN’S FASHION 40 EDITORIAL SHOOT Our cover model explores the urban jungle in sophisticated style. 51 MEN’S FASHION TRENDS Country Attire helps you pack appropriately this season with their top winter buys; tailor your winter wardrobe accordingly; revel in the most rebellious fashion trend; keep warm and cosy in our urban knits and become the ultimate sports man.
LA VIDA DIARY
CONTENTS WINTER 2013
05 EDITOR’S LETTER Athina Macpherson introduces this issue.
64 LA VIDA DIARY We round up the hottest events that hit Manchester and Liverpool these past months. 66 ZEYNEP KARTAL La Vida sit front row at the preview of Zeynep Kartal’s debut collection.
THE COVER
68 VOGUE FASHION’S NIGHT OUT We speak to a selection of top designers at VFNO, including Vogue Editor-in-Chief, Alexandra Shulman.
LA VIDA LIFESTYLE 76 WINTER FITNESS SURVIVAL GUIDE Keep fit and healthy this season with the help of celebrity personal trainer, Hayley Newton. 78 ITSLAVIDA.COM Highlights of our recent online features. 82 EATING CLEAN & LEAN Learn the secrets behind living a healthy lifestyle by eating clean & lean as well as a yummy and healthy breakfast recipe. 84 LIFESTYLE DESTINATIONS Our editor chooses the top lifestyle destinations in the North West to eat, sleep, wine and dine this season.
LA VIDA BEAUTY
COVER MODELS: Matthew Ridley
Nemesis Model Agency
PHOTOGRAPHY Dave Alexander
MAKE-UP Omid Pourmohamad
FASHION Harvey Nichols
86 HIS NOT HERS Grooming tips, products and treats just for you men. 93 PIERRE ALEXANDRE Get the ultimate celebrity treatment at Pierre Alexandre. 94 LA VIDA BEAUTY This season’s hottest beauty trends from bold brows, wine-stained lips, feline flicks and slick-backed hair.
03 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
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EDITOR'S letter
I
think many of you can agree that 2013 has flown by; it’s been a whirlwind of a year. We’ve celebrated our first birthday, launched in the lovely city of Liverpool, played host to one of the biggest fashion events of the year, interviewed some famous names and faces and offered you a host of fashion trends and lifestyle tips and destinations to get you through each season.
a range of male and female fashion trends and looks to ensure you are cosy, comfy and, most importantly, fashionably on-trend this winter season. From turtlenecks to heavy knits, bold prints to simple cuts and punk influences to sports attire, there really is no reason you La Vida readers should stay at home. Get out and showcase your winter wardrobe in comfort and style.
To end 2013, and kick-start the New Year of 2014, we bring you an abounding winter issue bursting to the brim with delightful content. You will notice that we have a plethora of interviews for you with some of our favourite TV stars including Revenge heartthrob Nick Wechsler and Made in Chelsea’s Francesca Newman-Young; exclusive interviews with talented singer Eliza Doolittle, Nomfusi and Shayne Ward as well as catching up with super producer and songwriter will.i.am following his UK tour; we talk fashion with some of the most fabulous fashion designers from Sally Ellis, Joanna Sykes, Jonathon Saunders and Roksanda Ilincic to fashion icons Emily Sheffield and Alexandra Shulman. We also talk exclusively to the ‘Sheikh of Chic’ and the man behind The Fragrance Kitchen, Sheikh Majed Al-Sabah, as well as talented cosmetic surgeon and ‘Picasso of Botox’, Dr. Esho, who lets us into the world of aesthetics.
Our fashion feature girl runs amok with the hottest combinations for the party season whilst our cover model strips away the city glamour and goes back to basics in the Urban Jungle. Of course, no outfit would be complete without the appropriate beauty looks and grooming products to ensure your skin is just as eye-catching as your outfit. Our Top 10 essential male grooming products will safeguard soft, gorgeous smelling skin, lasting hairstyles and smooth complexions whilst our female beauty trends will leave you looking foxy and fabulous with bold brows, wine-stained lips, feline flicks and slick-backed hair – let the frost covered pavements be your ultimate catwalk this season.
For the frosty weather, which we all know is creeping up on us slowly, we have assured
As we too are only human, we understand that winter is a period of comfort eating and curling up at home in front of the fire. And so, to ensure we don’t lose our svelte figures and become couch potatoes, personal trainer to the stars, Hayley Newton, is on hand with her Winter Survival Guide complete with
facts and tips to winter-proof your workout and your waistline. Our much loved Clean & Lean diet continues this issue, focusing on the importance of breakfast and riding those mythical taboos by offering a healthy and fun blueberry buckwheat pancake recipe to indulge in, without regrets. For those foodies out there that enjoy wining and dining, you are in luck. Yet again we offer a selection of our favourite leisure destinations in the North West. From delicious and authentic Lebanese, Japanese and Italian food to Mancunian inspired cocktails, beers from around the world and exclusive bars to relax at with your friends and family. Alternatively, you can indulge in fine food and exceptional drinks whilst staying at one of the North West’s beautiful, and newly refurbished, Radisson Blu hotels – I warned you this issue was jam-packed! And so, with 2013 coming to a bittersweet end and 2014 set to be just as eventful and exciting, I thank everyone that has contributed to this magnificent issue and bid you all a happy and prosperous start to the New Year.
Athina Macpherson 05 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Silverberg Opticians, 40 Whitechapel, Liverpool, L1 6DZ, 0151 709 2012, www.silverbergopticians.co.uk
WWW.ALEXIZ.CO.UK
La Vida FASHION
Take a look at the hottest fashion trends for both the ladies and the gents this season. With the days getting shorter and the temperatures dropping, take advantage of this season’s warm essentials from the cosiest wardrobe additions, on-trend fashion looks, mood-lifting prints and the best cover-ups...
09 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
10 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
WRECK THE HALLS Don’t deck the halls this party season; wreck them with some of the hottest combinations of high-shine metallic skirts, luxurious faux fur, delicate embellishments, bright pops of colour and intricate designs. Delirious with glam and glitz, our fashion feature girl runs amok with the foxiest looks this winter.
Swimsuit: Project 104 Skirt: Andrew Majtenyi Necklace: Revival Coat: Twenty8Twelve Heels: Biba Creative Director & Stylist: Sabina Emrit (www.sabinaemrit.com) Photographer: Hanna Hillier Hair and make-up: Amy Rose Macdonald Styling assistant: Sophie Hannah Richardson With thanks to The Duke’s Head, Highgate Village
11 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
12 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
This Page: Gown: Patricia Bonaldi Clutch: Matthew Campbell Laurenza Opposite: Gown: Toujouri Capelet: Toujouri Ring: Rachel Galley Necklace: Julia Clancey
Trousers: Sinequanone Top: Evil Twin Wrap: Unreal Fur Boots: Unisa Ring: Sonal Talgeri Bhaskaran London 14 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
15 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
This Page: Skirt: Sorapol Top: ZDDZ London Gold Earrings: Anna Lou of London Opposite: Dress: Natasha Zinco Bracelet: Matthew Campbell Laurenza Shoes: Jimmy Choo Clutch: Matthew Campbell Laurenza
17 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Embellished Jumper: Sorapol Skirt: River Island
18 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
19 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
1
I T’ S A BOY-G IR L A FFA IR Androgyny has long been an evolving trend and this season is no different. Men’s styling has made its way back into the female wardrobe, however this time around, the masculine approach has taken a slightly different angle - a much more laid-back attitude with clean and simple cuts. Seen through key masculine pieces combined with the use of femininely embellished details and chunky, oversized ‘boyfriend’ staples, the perfect boy-meets-girl look is created. From your partners big, cosy jumper to his tailored shirt paired with your form-fitting trousers or knee-skimming skirt and brogues, this look is simple yet remains femininely charming.
Vanessa Bruno
Gucci, £445 (Net-a-Porter)
The Kooples, £130
Zara, £95
J.Crew, £168 (pre-order)
O’2nd, £320 (Harvey Nichols)
Whistles, £275
Matt & Nat, £80 (ASOS) 20 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Margaret Howell
Topshop, £42
Mango, £99.99 Dune, £79
Alexander McQueen, £465 (Net-a-Porter)
LA VIDA FASHION
Duffy, £165 (Harvey Nichols)
River Island, £38
H&M, £29.99
Michael Kors, £865 (Net-a-Porter)
&OtherStories, £45
T H E TURT LEN ECK
Elin Kling
Pandora Sykes
Elin Kling
2
We have always embraced a secret love for a good turtleneck and if there’s one trend worth trying, it’s this. This cosy sweater is both practical and adorable – no need for a scarf, your neck’s already covered. This season the turtleneck has moved away from its standard navy merino from our primary school days, to a decidedly more interesting version. Make sure you choose a heavy-knit version and wear it oversized in volume and chunky in texture.
Sass & Bide, £275 (Harvey Nichols)
Alexander McQueen, £530 (Harvey Nichols)
Warehouse, £42
21 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
WINTER BLOOMS
Be it individual snowdrops or bouquets of dahlias, this season’s winter blooms are undoubtedly going to serenade your wardrobe. This dazzling, feminine trend is the perfect way to lift those gloomy spirits now that winter has come to town with both its colourful and vibrant approach, but also the more subdued interpretations. Although certainly less feminine than summer’s dainty prints, these winter blooms are darker, edgier and hold an even more luxe and powerful quality.
Christopher Kane
3
ASOS, £22
Giambattista Valli
H&M, £24.99 Elizabeth and James, £350 (Harvey Nichols)
Miista, £225 (Harvey Nichols) Oasis, £45
Konplott, £57.50
22 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Jaded London, £50 (Selfridges)
Lanvin
Topshop, £38
Missguided, £29.99
Acne, £300
LA VIDA FASHION
ASOS, £55
Mango, £34.99 Missguided, £29.99
Calla, £340 (Harvey Nichols)
Topshop, £68 Red Valentino, £625 (Harvey Nichols)
L.K. Bennett, £195
Oscar de la Renta
Ted Baker, £219
River Island, £25
From Dolce and Gabbana’s intricately embroidered flowery designs to Lanvin’s forest inspired approach, the AW13 catwalks were a wintery meadow of flora. Burberry Prorsum and Bottega Veneta chose autumnal hues to interpret their blossoming prints, whereas Oscar de la Renta hyped up the romanticism using floral prints to create party-ready pieces with 60s-styled silhouettes. Giambattista Valli on the other hand, using black satin-like material with a blood red rose print, embarked on a darker, more gothic path than the traditionally girly, romantic print. Armani chose delicate, smaller bouquets, whereas Peter Pilotto went big and bold. But, no matter which choice of print, colour, pattern or design you prefer, these floral prints can be adapted into any wardrobe from small detailed accessories, to head-to-toe ensembles.
Topshop, £15
Zara, £15.99
23 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
4
Next, £45
Fausto Puglisi
Anthony Vaccarello
H&M, £29.99
ASOS, £75
PUNK-MEETS-GRUNGE
There certainly appears to be a rebellious edge this season with the punk trend taking centre stage on numerous catwalks this AW13. But, although punk is back, it looks a whole lot different from before. This season we welcome the amalgamation of punk and grunge to create a messier, darker and louder look. We see ripped tartan stews, paintsplashed denims, studded details, patent leather and PU pieces. This punk-meetsgrunge trend is the new grown-up take on fashion’s most rebellious and downright defiant trend.
Alex Christopher, £30 (Each To Their Own)
J Crew, £200 (Net-a-Porter)
Glamorous, £90 Antipodium, £179 (Urban Outfitters)
Diesel Black Gold
Joomi Lim, £105 (Harvey Nichols)
24 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Call It Spring, £55
Zara, £69.99 H&M, £24.99
M&S, £35
5 LA VIDA FASHION
Miss Selfridge,£120 M&S, Per Una, £89
HOT FUZZ You could say it’s somewhat cliché, but faux fur is one of this season’s favourite trends. With piles of faux fur seen on the AW13 catwalks at Prada, Fendi and our favourite faux fur influences seen at Topshop Unique, we have a selection of fur-adorned pieces. From bags, hats and earmuffs to full faux fur jackets and stoles, there is no reason not to adopt this sinfully soft and ridiculously warm trend into your winter wardrobe.
Stella McCartney, £1,020 (Net-a-Porter)
River Island, £150
Acne, £1,600 (Net-a-Porter)
Topshop Unique
&OtherStories, £29
Accessorize, £29
ASOS, £63.50
Topshop Unique
Oasis, £12
Zara, £29.99 H&M, £34.99
25 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Zara, £129
H&M, £89.99
The Sleeveless
Maybe not the most practical way to cover up this winter, but damn it looks cool. The sleeveless coat, as seen on the Victoria Beckham AW13 catwalk, is elegant and adaptable to both daytime and night-time. Pair with jeans and a long sleeved jumper or turtleneck and you’re good to go – what these pieces may lack in coverage certainly make up for in chic sophistication.
The Pink Lady
Lighter hues may not be your natural choice of colour during the winter season but this lighter, more lady-like colour palette alongside the darker, wintery mood, makes for an ultimate luxe, fashionforward contrast. Statement lapel details are the perfect addition to the pink coat.
French Connection, £185 26 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Petar Petrov, £1,109.67 (Far Fetch)
Trussardi
Victoria Beckham
6
COVE
The Boyfriend
Oasis, £110
Taken from the androgynous trend, the masculine coat takes borrowed-from-theboyfriend bagginess to the forefront for a new womanly feel. The key to covering up with ‘The Boyfriend’ coat is to find something oversized yet tailored – raiding your partner’s wardrobe is always a great starting point. Think wide, structured lapels, leather influences, kneegrazing lengths, pinstripes and structured materials and you have yourself the perfect boyfriend coat fit for any women.
Topshop, £210
Theyskens’ Theory
The Kooples, £425
ER UP WITH...
Céline
The Scot
Zara, £149
Plaid coats are everywhere this season with our biggest influences taken from Stella McCartney and Celine’s AW13 catwalks. From grungy tartans to softer, gingham checks, this season’s trend is everywhere. Take from the Scots and go plaid to spice up your wardrobe this season.
Stella McCartney
Topshop, £89
Stella McCartney, £1,085 (Harvey Nichols)
27 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
WWW.ALEXIZ.CO.UK
EI L
Having quickly risen to fame after her platinum
selling debut album, which included the hit singles
‘Pack Up’ and ‘Skinny Genes,’ Eliza Doolittle has become a household name. With the success of her
first record, the singer/songwriter allowed herself
LA VIDA FEATURE
A Z DOOLITTLE
some time-out from the limelight to really get to grips with the inspiration for her follow up ‘In Your
Hands’. Although there is a slightly more ‘grown-
up’ feel to what we’re hearing this time around, the first single ‘Big When I Was Little’ was a fun
loving summer smash infused with reggae vibes. To many she may come across as the ‘girl next door’, however there’s an edgy and sexy confidence to Eliza that doesn’t come naturally to most. She’s comfortable in her own skin and as far as role models go, we love her. La Vida’s Sabina Emrit got the lowdown on all things Doolittle.
You returned to the scene with a feature on the track ‘You & Me’ from Disclosure. How does it feel to be back? Great! I wanted to really take the time to write my album and I think it has been well worth it to not rush anything. Then writing ‘You & Me’ with Disclosure came at the perfect time! Do you feel that everyone is expecting the new album to follow the Disclosure house trend that’s everywhere right now? No, I’m sure they understand that ‘You & Me’ was for their album and more on their tip. Do you have any more collaborations in the pipeline? I always love working with different artists and musicians, so yes! But you’ll have to wait and see... You managed to perform a few songs from your new album at the iTunes festival, how did it feel? (And being at ‘home’ too?) Ah it was incredible! I loved every second of it. It was my favourite gig of this run so far. And yeah, being in my hometown made it even more special. The band and the new songs are coming together now and it’s just such a great feeling playing them to people for the first time! How did you come up with the title ‘In Your Hands’? ‘In Your Hands’ is one of my songs on the album and I wrote it at a time when I wasn’t feeling too good. I’m the kind of person who forgets how happy feels when I’m sad, and forgets how sad feels when I’m happy. And all the feelings I had when I was not in my finest hour are in that song and I just think it’s so important to remember that. By making it the title of my album, I’ll never forget. I also love the idea of people loving whole records again and buying the physical, seeing it as a body of work and holding a little piece of me ‘In your hands’. We see you in twitter snaps with artists like Sam Smith and Jessie Ware, who are your favourite new artists out there right now? Well those two are definitely on my list! They’re fantastic! I’m also loving Chance the Rapper, Tom Odell, Jake Bugg, The Colurs - man I could go on and on, I just keep my eyes and ears open nonstop for new music. You said in an interview once that you tried not to listen to other music too much whilst you were writing and recording. Now the album’s done, who’s on your playlist? Right now I have Arctic Monkeys AM album on repeat, James Blake, Aretha Franklin, Bread, D’angelo, Daft Punk, Donny Hathaway, Drake, Foo fighters, Jai Paul, Jay Z, Justin Timblerlake, Kanye West, Lucy Pearl, Mariah, Prince, Sting, Toni Braxton - and that’s in alphabetical order for ya! 31 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
“I’ve always loved how classically ‘London’ Liberty of London is!”
LA VIDA FEATURE You’ve been rocking the 90s throwback look – even the latest SS14 shows at New York Fashion Week [available spring 2014] are all doing sport luxe and casual chic. What do you love about it? Am I? I didn’t even know! You know what, I just love wearing all sorts of different stuff; I try not to be anything other than myself really. What brands are you wearing at the moment? At this moment in time I’m wearing a vintage plain white cotton tee, a Shakuhachu skirt and a Ksubi denim jacket with some Mother of Pearl skate shoes. If you had to find an outfit for a gig or event and had 20 minutes but could only pick one store, where would you go? Probably a department store so I could get shoes too! I’ve always loved how classically ‘London’ Liberty of London is - there are so many beautiful dreamy clothes in there! We saw you wearing a bespoke bra top by Auria - a brand we adore - at Glastonbury. It’s great to see artists supporting new talent in fashion. Do you collaborate with designers to create bespoke pieces or do you leave that to your stylist? YES! I work with my stylist Avigail Collins and we work on ideas together and inspire each other. I love working with designers and customising for shows - it’s so fun!
Any other young British fashion brands that you’re loving right now? Well I do love Auria [Diana Harris] and the bikinis she did with Margot Bowman too! What else am I liking? I got a new handbag by Janvier, which is really cute! Is there a dream designer that you’d love to work with? Of course! There are just so many! I love Jean Paul Gaultier, Louis Vuitton and Alia but there are so many more. So many artists are embarking on fashion collaborations, is that something you’ve thought about? I really do think that music and fashion are sisters and that’s why it works so well when people collaborate, have fun and make beautiful things. I’d love to get involved in fashion sometime but I haven’t really thought about it in too much detail. Now that Twitter and Instagram exist, you can really connect with your audience and get your music out there yourself. Do you like being able to use social media? Does it open you up to any negativity as an artist? I think it’s great. I can let people know where I’m going to be playing, when my album is coming out and even more so, who I am as a person behind my music. Of course you see negativity everywhere and the internet just magnifies it. If there are any negative vibes, nothing really gets to me - you’ve got to have thick skin and be yourself.
Would you ever go back into acting? I love it you know, plus I’m a ‘never say never’ kind of girl! There used to be a stigma attached to people crossing over from theatre to music, but now people seem more open to it. Do you think stage school is a good starting point for young people who want to become artists? I actually didn’t go to stage school myself, but I did attended Saturday classes and absolutely loved it. I really think that artists come from all sorts of backgrounds and so it’s not necessarily that the surroundings of an artist are what mould them; it could be just what’s within. What advice would you give to young people wanting to get into music? I would say do it for the pure love and nothing more, nothing less. If you really want to succeed and be able to make a living and gig and tour doing what you love, then you will have drive and focus! Do it! Describe the new album in three words? That’s hard! IN YOUR HANDS!
Eliza Doolittle’s album ‘In Your Hands’ is out on October 14th. Credits: Words by Sabina Emrit. Illustration by Natcha Malkin.
By Sabina Emrit
33 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Sve celebrates the strength and power of women with her high-end and ready-to-wear sleek, flattering designs. Known for her monochromatic colour palette as a basis, infusing each collection with a chosen colour – this season is pink. With an array of designs for any occasion, all garments are oneof-a-kind, of high quality and expertly designed. Sally Ellis, the designer behind Sve, creates all the beautiful pieces by hand – giving it that truly personal touch. As a unique and extraordinary designer, La Vida spoke to Sally about the Sve brand, her current collection and getting into the fashion industry.
Y
ou have a very inspirational story behind becoming a designer, could you tell us a bit about how it all came to be? I always wanted to be a designer from a young age. I was always designing dresses in sketchbooks as a child – I could only dream of becoming a designer one day. I wasn’t very academic at school so after leaving high school without the grades I needed for university, I enrolled in beauty school and worked as a therapist for a few years. At 19, I then decided it was my time to fly the nest and so I hopped on a plane to OZ [Australia]. When I returned I was more determined than ever to try and follow my dreams, so I moved to Manchester in pursuit of that. After researching all possible angles of getting into fashion design, I turned up on enrolment day and I was accepted onto my course. Fate was definitely on my side that day; someone was certainly looking after me. And after you completed your Fashion Design degree, what happened? Well after four years of studying Fashion Design at Salford University, I was picked to show my collection at Graduate Fashion Week which then got me my first job designing high-street wear – it didn’t take me long though to realise that high-street and fast-fashion were not my forte. I started designing and making bespoke men’s and women’s pieces to sell in small independent boutiques around Manchester. I then finally got offered a dream job in London working for a high-end designer and ‘coutureist’ so I moved down South. What made you come back up to Manchester? Well within no time it dawned on me that I should have my own label; if the lady I worked for in London could do it, so could I. So I packed my bag, got on the train and headed back home with a business plan jotted down on a piece of paper, this piece of paper was the start of my dream. How was starting up Sve from scratch? It was tricky but I had the stock in hand to supply a small shop, I just needed to make a few more pieces, which
LA VIDA FEATURE I knew I could do. I then needed to borrow a small amount of money to pay the first months rent and of course find the perfect property to home Sve which was in Cheshire. Why Cheshire? Well Tarporley is a village in Cheshire where my mother always used to take me shopping as a child. I loved it so much as a child that I remember saying to her that when I grow up and I’m a famous designer, I am going to have a boutique here - so that’s exactly what I did. How has this been for you so far? Well three years later, there has been a lot of blood, sweat and many, many tears of joy and worry but I have managed to create a brand that has since dressed some of the biggest names in music and television. I have managed to build a thriving and loyal
client base as well as showcasing for my fourth season at London Fashion Week. Sve also stared in Rhianna’s reality designer TV show ‘Styled to Rock’, I won Designer of the Year in 2012 from Fashions Finest and my brand has also been featured in many magazines. You design and manufacture your products yourself, would you say keeping your products so unique and one-of-a-kind is a principle you would like to continue with as your brand grows? Definitely. As it’s solely me running Sve from the business side to the manufacturing side, I believe that’s what makes each piece so special and unique – everything is made with passion and love. My inspirations behind Sve are the strong and independent women, which is something I will always keep. What are your plans for the future of Sve? What adventure do you plan to embark on next? My next adventure and goal for 2014 is to open another Sve boutique in London. Within this, I plan to sell my collections by season with pieces and sizes already in store so that when women come in, they can try their desired piece on in their size, buy it and leave – that’s what London needs as it’s at a faster pace of life and so you have to adapt to the London life and its shoppers, but I will always offer a bespoke made-to-measure service as well. What excites you about your new collection? The new collection is full of textures and different fabrics. I really had fun this season experimenting with winter elements and 1920›s glamour with an Sve twist. I love using red in every collection I create as it complements my trademark black and white so well, but my chosen colour this season though was pink. It’s a girly and fun colour and the reaction I get from all the ladies is pure joy and smiles on their faces.
What is your favourite item from your new collection? My favourite item I would say is the couture black lace feathered long dress – the ‘Black swan dress’ – but I love everything! If you could see Sve anywhere in the world where would it be? I would love to see Sve on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week and eventually I would love Sve to be sold globally. If you could collaborate with anyone in the world who would it be? I have always been a great fan of Victoria Beckham, the obvious reason being that she was my favourite Spice Girl, but also she has style and class and she is now a great designer in her own right. She understands women and the concept of style and I really do think her vision along with mine and my love for fashion would make for something very mesmerising.
What do you love most about fashion? Fashion has been a huge part of my life growing up, my mother always dressed to impress and definitely was always the most stylish mum – I never saw her without a pair of heels on, even when she was hovering! That’s where I must get it from, but my shoe obsession is getting out of control, I own 800 pairs of heels in counting and have made a special wardrobe that lights up. I believe fashion completes the person, it emanates their personality and it can really make someone feel very special. What does good fashion mean to you? Good fashion is only what I know. I believe you are either born with it or not at all, but I do believe that no matter what, Sve can make anyone that’s stylish look and feel great. That’s what I believe is key in fashion; being comfortable in what you wear but also knowing that you look and feel great.
48b High St, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0DX 01829 730193 info@svefashion.com www.svefashion.com 35 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Dress / Illustrated People Boots / Chockers Shoes Necklace / Eshvi Ring / Anfray & Anfray
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LA VIDA FEATURE
e v i s u excl iew v r e t in ... h t i w
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By Sabina Emrit
Francesca (or Franny as I call her) is a really good friend of mine. We met a few years ago at a music industry party and I instantly developed a slight ‘girl crush’. She had a very quintessentially British style and was never without a Mulberry bag or Aquascutum trench. She was also divinely pretty in that “omg, it’s so annoying how pretty she is” kind of way. I remember when I found out she was going to be on Made in Chelsea and immediately thought it was perfect for her. I can’t deny it either, I watch MIC every Monday without fail, but I don’t think you’ve had the chance to really know enough about the girl on your screens Fran is a talented little cookie. So, we decided to do a small photoshoot and interview with her so you could learn a little bit more about Francesca Newman-Young. We all know you from the BAFTA winning TV show Made in Chelsea, how did you get involved in the show? Part of me still has no idea! Reality TV was not something I thought I would ever do but I had some friends who were already involved and when the producers got in touch, it felt like the right time to go on a new adventure. It all happened very quickly, but I’m glad I took the risk. What’s life like in front of the camera? I enjoy being involved in the show but, as you can all imagine, exposing parts of your private life can be really nerve-racking especially when your heart’s involved. I don’t enjoy the fights, or the catty behaviour, but we do get to do some really fun things. The show is only one part of my life though, so some privacy is precious to me!
What three words would you use to describe yourself? Creative, curious and loyal. Do you have any style icons? My top five style icons at the moment are Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Chloë Sevigny, Kate Moss and Chloe Norgaard. The show, combined with twitter, is like an online catwalk. Is there any pressure with what you have to wear each episode? I love fashion. I get really excited about planning what to wear, it’s another opportunity to express myself and test new looks. It’s always interesting to receive the feedback – good or bad! Who are your go-to fashion brands right now? I wear a lot of Mink Pink, Bill + Mar, Paul & Joe Sister, Evil Twin and I love a bit of New Look too. Which brands would you love to wear that you haven’t quite got the chance to wear yet? Gosh, there are so many! Up-and-coming designers Creatures of the Wind and CO|TE are on my wish-list. Then there’s Sonia Rykiel, Isabel Marant and Eudon Choi. I also have my eye on many Marcus Lupfer creations. We know that you work in music; do you have any music tips for us? The next big thing? Ones to watch? I love Hozier. His single ‘Take Me To Church’ is stunning. I’m really excited about Sam Smith and Ella Eyre - they’ve done some awesome collaborations in the past; their individual debut albums should be pretty special. If you’re looking for an exciting new band, check out this two-piece band from Brighton called Royal Blood. We’ve heard on the grapevine that you actually have a good singing voice yourself, is this something you ever wanted to pursue? I love singing, it’s a genuine passion of mine but I don’t know whether I would ever do it professionally. But, if there were an opportunity to perform more, I wouldn’t dismiss it. If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take one CD (yes let’s pretend this desert island has a CD player), which album would it be and why? That’s really tricky! Nirvana’s album ‘Nevermind’ is one of my favourites, but I’m not sure it would be great for the severe moments of solidarity. I’m going to go with Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Rumours’ - ‘The Chain’ is one of the greatest songs of all time. Festival season has been and gone but it will certainly be back before we know it with tickets to Glastonbury already sold out! So, with that being said, do you have a favourite festival? Don’t I know it! Two hours of repetitive clicking and I got myself a ticket - phew! Nothing compares to Glastonbury, but I also love Sonar (in Barcelona), Latitude for a more relaxed one, Secret Garden Party and Bestival. I would also love to do Burning Man next year. If you were going away somewhere hot for the weekend, what essentials would you pack? Two of the material things I love the most are bikinis and sunglasses. I would pack a rainbow of dresses too. I believe
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it’s very important to invest in your skin; having a suncream with a decent SPF factor as well as some good aftercare is essential. I love Decleor, Lancaster and Hawaiian Tropics. If you had to pick a job that wasn’t music, what do you think it would be? I would need to do something creative. I started out my career as a writer and worked at a few publications - I would love to do this again, maybe as a screenwriter though or someone who works in the development stages of television. My other passion is food. It has always been a dream of mine to open up a restaurant. Many of your co-stars have launched new businesses with the help of MIC; are you working on anything? The show really can be a great platform to launch projects from! I already have my own music consultancy FNY Creations, but I love fashion and jewellery - I definitely wouldn’t shy away from designing my own or collaborating with another designer. Social media means that anyone watching the show, or even those who aren’t watching, can give you their opinions on everything from how you look to what they think of a scene. How do you handle the intensity of it all? You definitely need to develop a thick skin. Often the people at the other end of the nasty posts wouldn’t dream of saying half the things they type to your face and I think it’s important to remember that. When I don’t though, I am lucky enough to have a very supportive group of friends who bring me back to Earth. I also live a very normal life outside of the show, so I remain very grounded. So far you haven’t had much luck on the show when it comes to dating, is there anyone that you could see a romance blooming with on or off screen? I wouldn’t say I’ve been ‘unlucky’, the boys I’ve dated on the show haven’t been very ‘compatible’, but we’ve become friends so nobody’s lost out. Recently I’ve been working really hard and haven’t found the time for any romance, but they do say you find someone when you least expect it! Who is Francesca’s ideal man? Is there one? An ideal man would be incredibly dull. If I could find someone who made me laugh every day, I would be very happy. Who do you hang out with after filming?
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I have made some great friends on the show. I hang out with Binky, Cheska and Lucy and I’ve also recently spent a lot of time with Louise. Outside of the show though I have a really strong group of friends who live on the other side of London so I spend a lot of time with them. Do you keep in touch with anyone that’s left the show? Millie was always lovely to me, but I only met her a few times through the show. I am still good friends with Ollie, and I’m close with Caggie’s brother so I bump into her occasionally too. You’re out and about in London all the time, where are your favourite places to chill out with friends? Chelsea Farmer’s Market, The Electric Cinema or at a local pub. Favourite places for cocktails? Rum Kitchen and Calloo Callay for a fun evening out. Night Jar and the Langham Hotel if it’s a hot date. Favourite place for dinner? When I’m not cooking at home I love to try out new restaurants or pop-up spots. Brixton Village is a regular haunt of mine as it’s buzzing with great quality food at reasonable prices. I also love Patty & Bun for a good burger, Santos in Notting Hill and Tsunami. If you’re into something a little more otherworldly, I recommend Ginger Line. Favourite places for relaxation? My bed. I love a good sleep. What’s coming up next for you? I have started presenting for the music blog That Flavour where I’ll be interviewing artists from all walks of life; superstars and stars in the making. Presenting was something I had done in the past on an amateur level and absolutely loved. I also write and have my own blog for the Huffington Post so it’s amazing being able to combine my passions. I would love to take it further and have my own radio or television show one day, so that’s something I want to work hard towards. Photographer: Oleg Tolstoy. Stylist: Sabina Emrit Hair and Make Up: Olivia Newman Young Styling assistants: Liz Denson / Tanya Varma.
LA VIDA FEATURE
Dress / Beautiful Soul Trilby / Laird & Co Hatters Bracelet / Julia Burness Ring / Julia Burness
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LA VIDA FASHION
URBAN JUNGLE Strip away the city glamour and the skyscrapers – it’s time to go back to the basics. Answering the need to retune and find your essence in the middle of all the cosmopolitan chaos, simple items are your best friends and statement is the key word; you only need one piece to do the talking. Printed trousers, loud sweaters and statement coats are the maestros for a simpler symphony in the urban jungle.
Kattreya: Turtleneck: Primark Waistcoat: Zara Studio Skirt: Topshop Shoes: Kurt Geiger Matthew: Turtleneck: Marc by Marc Jacobs Coat: Acne Studios Jeans: Models own Shoes: Kurt Geiger Photography & Editing: Dave Alexander (www.davealexanderphoto.com) Models: Kattreya and Matthew @Nemesis Model Agency Make-up: Omid Pormohamed With many thanks to Harvey Nichols for wardrobe 41 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
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Matthew: Sweatshirt: Neil Barrett Kattreya: Camisole: Maje Trousers: Maison Scotch
Kattreya: Coat: Paul Smith Black Dress: Maje Matthew: Sweatshirt: Kenzo Top: Neil Barrett Jeans: Models own Boots: Kurt Geiger
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LA VIDA FEATURE
JSKY INTERVIEWS:
Black Eyed Peas frontman, songwriter, super producer and, most recently, a widely respected judge on BBC One’s ‘The Voice’, Will.i.am has a CV as colourful as a Picasso painting. Aged 38 and firmly cemented into the tapestry of popular culture, synonymously behind the scenes and at the forefront, Will.i.am is about to embark on his first ever solo tour. Having produced for the likes of Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber, Rihanna and Wolfgang Gartner, to name but a few, we get an insight into the multifaceted beast we know as the music industry. His record ‘Reach For The Stars’ was the first song ever to be broadcasted in Mars, and his love of gadgets has led to the release of his iam+ camera upgrade for the iPhone. We chat to Will.i.am about his tour, music projects and all things in-between.
Photo Credits: Mike Jurkovac
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irst things first; let’s talk about your tour. What made you finally decide it was time to do your first solo tour? It was a calling - I never had the desire before to tour by myself. Doing the odd show here and there and DJing was cool, but I never had the desire to tour outside of the Peas [Black Eyed Peas]. I didn’t feel the need or the reason, but with this project, and especially the success in my solo project, I think it was an obligation and a new desire. It’s a new excitement to want to do that. I’m really happy about it. What was your vision for the tour? I just wanted to represent the songs and display them in a way that excites the audience and allows them to escape whatever it is that they’ve been doing for two hours and have something that brings people together and brings joy. I know that sounds corny
“I wanna bring joy to people!” [in a high squeaky voice]. Who would you like to collaborate with that you haven’t done so yet? Jimmy Hendrix or Prince! I’m trying to be realistic. He’s not going to be an obvious one. How long did it take to get a tour of this magnitude together? It took time. We were still in the process of putting it all together a few days before, but it came together well. It sounds like a big commitment. I’m guessing you have to take a lot of time out? Yeah, it’s no different to doing an album. An album takes a year, year and a half. We focus a year, so it’s another one of those things. Does this mean The Voice is definitely out, or is that still up in the air? No, I can’t discuss [The] Voice details. What about Leah? She was amazing! How have things been going with her since the show? Woohoo! Now let’s talk something exciting [puts on a southern American accent]! Last time I was this excited about a project was when I was in the Black Eyed Peas and we were like, “We’re gonna do a dance album”. People were like “What?” and I was like “Yeah! We’re collaborating with David Guetta!” People
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were like “Who’s David Guetta?” This was before we were on radios top 40 everywhere. It’s the same excitement now! What stage are you at with recording Leah? We’re about 80 percent finished. Wow! How would you describe the style of music? Is it possible to sum it up? Well, I would say wonderful layers of sonic euphoria [laughs]. How about that one? It’s great stuff. It’s experimental. There’s a lot of fusion; pop fusion with layers, and her voice is just spectacular. Who would you say you’ve learnt the most from over the course of your career? Michael Jackson. Amazing! From your own personal experience, what did you learn from him?
“Man…Every second of your life is a stage.” Entertainment is your career and every time you walk, it’s a stage. Humility too. To check every moment of every decision as a potential last, so make sure that it’s the right decision and right thing to do. As big as he was, he wasn’t arrogant, he wasn’t rude. He’s Michael Jackson. He’s the best. I suppose you could say working with him changed the way you approached your own work then? It guides how I approach people that like my work. There are people that
accomplish an inch and they act like they created oxygen! They separate themselves from people. As big as Michael Jackson was, with all the things he accomplished, he didn’t. I mean he had to, for safety, but when he was around people it was as if he knew them forever. He was always connected and looking for connectivity and conversation and he made people really feel. I see today’s celebrities and they’re the total opposite of Michael Jackson. There’s like this generation of James Brown, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Ritchie, they have that. Now there’s this other generation of music and icons. How are you supposed to appreciate the people that appreciate outside of your safety and wellbeing? You shouldn’t be rude to people! Seriously, you get these celebrities who have this “I am holier than you” attitude. Dude you sing songs, what the hell are you talking about?
LA VIDA FEATURE
or rushing off or pretending to ignore because you have somewhere to be for some reason, it’s hard to sit comfortably doing that. But Michael [Jackson], hanging out with him for like five years, and becoming his friend, I used to learn. Imagine if Michael Jackson was a current artist today. If I say, “Ok, name this song” you’d be like “ummm”. You’d be having a hard time remembering it.
“Now imagine if Michael came out three years ago and was alive right now, and he didn’t exist in the past, put everything he did with the Jackson Five to death.” In a five year span, if he was putting out that much content, Ooh Baby Give Me One More Chance, Thriller, Beat It…all these songs, some people would say that you couldn’t put out that much material, I’d be like “Yes you can, I know people with a thousand videos on YouTube, and they have only been singing a year!” People are uploading one video a day. So, if you think of Michael Jackson’s repertoire, and his humility, I think that’s the key. People have no humility and they’re doing less work - the ego and the audacity people have! That’s what I’ve learnt the most from Michael Jackson; this abundance of what to do with success and how you should behave as a result of it. The people make you successful so if you separate yourself from the people that are actually your oxygen, you’re just suicidal! What excites you at the moment? Leah’s project. I’m super excited about that. And I’m finishing up with Britney. That’s about it right now. I’m guessing you see that a lot? Hell yeah! It makes me laugh. Every time I see that stuff when I’m travelling about, I’m just like what the ‘F’ are you people doing? Half of them don’t even write the songs they sing! Are you serious? I learnt a lot from Michael [Jackson], James [Brown], Stevie [Wonder], and my peers. When you see that sort of behaviour do you ever pull people up on it, or do you just laugh to yourself? Nah, I can’t; each to his own. I just know it’s a thing I wouldn’t do. I feel that every time I’m walking down the street and they say “Hey Will, can we take a picture?” and
because I’m in a rush to get somewhere, I have to pretend I don’t hear them. That just hurts, it breaks my heart, like I’m being a d**k. Even though I hate taking pictures, I hate it, at the same time, I’m like “Really bro, you’re taking pictures, you could just totally be ignored, you better appreciate that picture; appreciate the fact that someone wants to share that moment with somebody they know in their family”. But then at the same time, there’s life and when you’re out there in the world, you’re going somewhere, going to do something. Those small interruptions affect your productivity; as little as it may sound. But saying no,
What were you looking forward to the most about the tour ? I was looking forward to just going out there and performing for the first time with people there to see “Will Power”. I didn’t share the stage with any big acts, I just gave my all in the shows to just feel good in the moment.
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TAILORED UTILITY
Tailoring for AW13 will see a refined approach to the classics and a strong focus on contrasting elements, panelling and blocking through colour applications and fabric mixes. Lapel shapes will see narrow width proportions updated with notch, peak and shawl lapels for a more directional approach to jacket styling this season. However, we will see the regular width lapel proportions remain a popular contender amongst the high-street, with the broader peak lapel used to create classic sartorial styling amongst suiting. We’re also beginning to see the contrast lapel take shape this coming season with cord, suede and brushed cottons refreshing the classic
Balenciaga
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A signature style was adopted in this collection through the dark streamlined tailoring, contrasted with the affinity to combine new materials and proportions with the traditional. A pursuit for both inflexibility and movement was set out in juxtaposed fabrics of matte, wool, silk, mohair and cotton.
heritage looks. One of the key particulars to look out for this season, when deciding upon your suit, will be through panelling and pocket details. Designers this AW13 emphasise the use of pockets to complete the classic sartorial look – a popular choice for the modern gentleman. Complete this look with a neatly folded pocket square; don’t be afraid to use print or a combination of colours to show off your individuality and personal style. If you’re after a fashion-focused statement piece, look out for contrast panelling. This is a look that has steadily evolved over recent seasons, with blocking the most popular look applied by both designers and high-street brands. Whether executed using simple fabrics and colour contrasting body panel details, or plain, matt and sheen contrasts on sleeves, this look will give you that fashion focus and will look great on the younger gent wanting an update on a classic piece. Don’t be afraid to mix classic blazers with casual, smart-fitted jeans in darker tones to give that smart-casual look for everyday tailoring.
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Balmain Asia was the destination Olivier Rousteing had on his mind when creating his current A/W13 menswear collection. The collection is a mix of short, narrow jackets paired with low-crotch trousers, with sports elements given to tailoring; a signature of the Balmain style.
LA VIDA FASHION
Damir Doma
Hermes
Valentino
Colour was used alongside black and grey staples, which was a first for the designer. Giant pockets and oversized details could be seen alongside more traditional elements such as the three-button suit. Damir Doma also experimented with denim for the first time with his baggy, carrot-shaped trousers.
The theme for this collection was ‘Chic le Sport’. Noting the sophisticated allure, taut lines and abundance of energy throughout with the use of chrome, navy and black as well as striking bursts of yellow and pink showcased in the form of trousers and turtlenecks.
Valentino presented a 60s English sensibility on his catwalk, leading the way for many designers in Paris this A/W13. The look was centred on the dapper gent through capes and skinny suits, Mackintosh coats and slick, luxe, leather cocoon jackets and blazers. The focal pieces were then finished with fur trimmings and panels of black leather.
Dior Homme
Kris Van Assche
Viktor & Rolf
This collection wasn’t about the skinny but more about the athlete, with inspiration taken from the 1997 space film Gattaca. This translated as pareddown, minimal and clean with functional dressing becoming the main purpose of this collection. Technical fabrications, belted waists and controlled silhouettes were key components of this collection.
At Kris Van Assche the designer created a collection mixing and matching jackets and jumpers to create a collection where casual elements worked simultaneously with formal pieces. Statement pieces included contrast ties with colour-blocked shirts and blazers.
Skinny, fitted silhouettes and worn-out printed shirts were teamed with elegant dinner-style jackets at the Viktor & Rolf show. The main colour palette for this collection was grey, black and navy; key colours for this season.
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PUNK REBELLION Balmain
Punk Rebellion is a trend that has come to the forefront of men’s fashion this AW13. Influenced by the recent popularity of the pop-culture and streetwear trends, the demand for lighter bomber and biker style jackets has increased; great alternatives to the usual heavier style jackets, allowing you to layer with different outerwear and knitwear pieces. Although popular during S/S, we have seen this trend transcend into our A/W wardrobes, but with slight alterations to update the classic style. Outerwear details see a more streamlined approach to collar shapes, with a renewed focus on pocket placements, colour blocking, panelling and contrasting elements.
Belstaff
QUILTING Quilting remains important, as techniques have developed through a range of applications that incorporate a focus on both panelling and patterns.
Kenneth Cole
LEATHER The use of leather is a key focus for this season’s Punk Rebellion trend with the classic biker jacket. Alternatively, contrast leather against wool or nylon through chest band details, sleeves, placket taping and patchwork details, as seen by Lou Dalton, BLK DNM and MKI Black.
Emporio Armani
PANELLING Updates focus on subtle contrasts through colour and fabric combinations. The mix of black and blue, or tonal shades of colour, will add a sophisticated element to sporty panel-blocking, while fabric texture contrasts will offset matt and shine finishes, adding interest and a luxe feel to outerwear.
If you’re after that statement piece, fur-trimmed collars such as this Sandro jacket add that luxe feel to casual style outerwear. Varsity-inspired details and diamond quilting offer an unexpected sporty aesthetic to formal outerwear such as the bomber jacket in wool or leather as seen by Emporio Armani and Kenzo. For a downright grungy look, this J Brand stonewashed denim jacket will work perfectly alongside waxed black trousers or skinny black denim jeans – the rips are optional for an ultra grungy feel. Topman, £160
Kenzo, £920 (Harvey Nichols)
Sandro, £370 54 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
J Brand, £240
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URBAN knit
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Nicole Farhi
Topman
Fendi
Salvatore ferragamo
With winter well and truly underway, it’s no surprise that we begin to invest in warmer items of clothing. There is nothing new about the staple jumper except the variety of styles, shapes, patterns and textures that are being introduced this season.
The inspiration behind the looks this season are centred around the ethos of honest, post-industrial designs with a utilitarian approach to menswear knits – updating the classic, yet in line with the Industrial Evolution trend for this season. Brands including Salvatore Ferragamo, Alexander McQueen, Fendi and Topman have all featured knits that incorporate a mixture of felted, insulated and grainy properties, giving texture to pieces as well as an engineered abrasion and casual authenticity. Straightforward stitches and blocky constructions are key details to look out for this season as well as a colour palette of tonal grey, brown and blue shades, warmed with oxidised greens and rust.
H&M, £29.99
Relaxed shapes, robust tactile surfaces and soft yarn mixes are key with pared-down silhouettes and clean finishes, reinvigorated by intriguing patterns and textures.
Acne, £270
One of the strongest looks this season will gain interest from dimensional cables and relief effects that will update your cable knit jumper. These interlacing 3D cables and intertwined effects will create dramatic statement pieces. But whichever style of knit you opt for this season, whether it be the classic crew-neck, V-neck, funnelneck or turtleneck, there’s something out there for every man to ensure looking dapper and on-trend during the cold winter months. Burberry, £365 (Harvey Nichols)
Next, £30 55 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
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SPORTS luxe Sports Luxe plays upon a mix of perfected casual classics to create a clean sportswear look for A/W13. Drawing interest from streetwear and everyday basics this look has been updated and given an elevated edge using new luxe textures and considered details.
Reworked silhouettes, new graphic placements and creative layering move the authentic varsity trend towards a future sportswear look.
Reinvigorated workwear and biker classics with a rebellious attitude and a luxurious confidence portray this look and make it fashion-forward. Reinforced panels, heavy-duty taping and quilting details provide a functional, protective quality of industrial toughness, whilst luxurious hardwearing leathers add an element of luxury along with carefully stained and distressed finishes to create an overall rebellious mood.
Frankie Morello
Givenchy
The baseball shirt has been seen over previous seasons but has proved as a key item for winter through street-style analysis. This vintage sports inspired shape was first picked up in Tokyo last summer, before being introduced by buyers amongst the high-street retailers including Harvey Nichols and Selfridges. The baseball shirt has since been seen at London Collections: Men, confirming its place as a relevant look for casual shirting this coming season.
Neil Barrett
Sharp masculine tailoring can be adopted with an elevated sports influence by refining looks through preppy blocking and precision construction.
Whilst colour takes form through knitwear and tailoring, white will play a key colour for emphasising this cleaner sports styling, and mixed with a monochromatic colour palette will create an elevated sportswear look. These key statement pieces can either be mixed together to form a capsule wardrobe or be introduced by mixing them with simpler items from high-end to high-street.
A.P.C. Men, ÂŁ550
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H&M, ÂŁ24.99
LA VIDA FASHION
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Fashion is on the streets faster than ever and the streets have a more direct and quick access to fashion than ever. There is now the possibility of a much more integrated dialogue between fashion and its audience and vice versa. I don’t know if it is an influence, it is rather a much more direct energy that you may choose to avail yourself of or not.
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Raf Simons, Dior
James Long, £375 (Harvey Nichols)
Topman, £26
Neil Barrett
Botteha Veneta
Matthew Miller
Zara, £29.99
Givency, £185 (Selfridges)
New Balance, £165 (Mr Porter)
Zara, £49.99
Topman, £24
Rick Owens, £560 (Matches Fashion)
Blood Brother, £75 (Urban Outfitters)
Jimmy Choo, £450 (Harvey Nichols)
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NW EI CCH Season 2 has come to an end and as we all anticipate with irrefutable excitement the third series of ABC network’s hit TV series Revenge to hit E4 January 2014, we find it only fitting to chat with one of the TV shows heartthrobs, Nick Wechsler. Nick plays the too-good-for-his-own-good and long-suffering Jack Porter, a character we cannot help but sympathise with. With all the characteristics we love in a good show – the beautiful setting of The Hamptons, easy-onthe-eye characters, great wardrobes and, of course, a twisted, edge-of-your-seat plot, we are captivated by this dastardly show. Following the story of a young woman, Emily Thorne (played by Emily VanCamp), seeking revenge on all those who have wronged her and her family, the show, created by Mike Kelly, centres on the intricate lives of some of The Hamptons most devious and vengeful. Despite the perfectly beautiful setting of The Hamptons, only the antithesis can be found in the lives of those residing. With a whirlwind of drama, scheming, hatred and, of course, revenge, bluecollared Jack Porter becomes a pawn in the agonising games of those around him. The Albuquerque native, Nick Wechsler, is neither similar nor dissimilar from his boy-next-door alter ego, Jack Porter. With a dark, twisted sense of humour they become polar opposites, but with Nick’s humble and truly downto-earth qualities, we can’t help but feel Nick and Jack are the perfect match. The 35-year-old actor is highly enthusiastic and grateful about the show and the talented people he gets to work with but, pertinent to his modesty, he doesn’t hide his exasperation when it comes to the bittersweet world of Hollywood. As his dark humour comes out, we couldn’t help but laugh all the way through our interview with the talented actor, discussing revenge plots, wrestling, fashion and the world of acting. With the elaborate, enthralling plots constantly building addictive suspense we readily wait for the third season to air. But until then, enjoy our interview with the whole lot dirtier, Nick Wechsler. How’s your day been so far, what have you been up to this morning? So far I’ve woken up and read my scenes from the first few
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I’m lucky to have this job... scripts. I’m not sure what else… Interviews freak me out, I don’t know why, but I have such a hard time remembering what we just did this morning, but then again, I always do. If someone’s like “What do you think about something?”, “What was your life like?” Or “Where did you shoot yesterday” I have no idea! Maybe it’s selective memory? [Laughs] yeah I guess, it feels like someone else’s memories. It’s like I didn’t live this guy, these are someone else’s memories; I was just pretending to be this guy for a few hours each day I go to work. We love Revenge both here at La Vida HQ and the UK as a whole – it’s great! Apart from the beautiful settings of The Hamptons, and the extremely intricate and gripping plots, how would you sum up Revenge for those few people out there who haven’t had the chance to tune in yet? Oh God! Well, it’s a girl whose father was wrongfully imprisoned and who later died in prison. She then moves back to The Hamptons amongst her enemies so she can systematically destroy their lives. That to me is awesome. You play a blue-collared Jack Porter in Revenge; describe Jack to us in one sentence? Jack is a hard-working, genuine and well-intentioned, honest and loyal guy who sometimes is just too much for his own good.
My character Jack has lost so much in both a direct and indirect result of Emily’s choices that the consequences for the truth worsen because she’s raising the stakes. The whole moral and point of the show is that don’t win when you seek revenge. You lose. Emily’s hurting the person she wanted her whole life [Jack]. If someone lied to me for two years, I would probably resent them, but I don’t think it would be something I couldn’t get past. I would understand, but I would urge them to stop. I mean, if they were lying to me for two years and in the process I lost my wife [second series of Revenge] I would be roughly where Jack’s at; I’d be heart broken and furious. Do you think you’re quite like Jack? We know you’re a very humorous person who is, to be honest, distinctively different to Jack. Would you class yourself as similar or extremely different? I mean I’m like him in some ways, but we are very different. I am loyal, often too loyal for my own good kind of guy. I’m very honest and I’d class myself as working class like Jack in the sense I don’t have much of a palette for real fancy s**t. There are a number of ways in which we are alike but I have, I guess, a darker and harsher personality and a much darker sense of humour. I’m much less tolerant of b******t. The stuff he puts up with I would not put up with. I’m much more sceptical of people; I’m not as naïve I guess. You said before that you’ve previously played the bad-guy characters, do you miss playing this role or are you happy with playing the cooler and calmer Jack? The only thing I guess that I miss about being the bad guy is that there’s a bit more freedom when playing a villain or a bad guy. With Jack I feel the pressure be a bit more ‘mainstream’ with my appeal and sense of humour; I have no idea how to do. I think I end up just not doing some things that come naturally to me. To be honest, I feel kind of unnatural as Jack. I feel like I don’t know how people behave when they’re not being mean [laughs]. When I’m playing a bad guy there’s more room for a twisted sense of humour whereas with Jack, I don’t think people would quite get it. It would make him quite unsympathetic and awkward if he was making crude jokes or something. But I’m so lucky to have this job, sometimes I just feel a little out of place. I get worried that I’m being boring or something because I’m so used to acting as the bad guy. So yeah, sometimes I miss that. The good news is that with Jack, with the things he goes through in season 2 of Revenge, there’s a lot of room for darkness, another consequence of Emily’s never relenting revenge.
...It’s the
best job
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K S L E R
LA VIDA FEATURE
What’s the best thing about playing Jack? Well, it’s different. It’s the best job I’ve had so far. It’s different from anything else I’ve done in my career as I’ve never really played the good guy before; I’ve only ever played bad guys. I just love my work though which is cheesy I guess in this town, but I do. I get along with everyone so well; it’s great playing with them. The more meaningful the scene to our characters, the more fun the scenes are. Sometimes there are scenes that don’t have as much to do with your larger purpose on the show but it can’t always be your scene or your turn. The scenes you are in though are really fun to do. Everyone’s really good.
Do people ever stop you on the street, recognising you as Jack Porter, and talk to you as your character? Yeah, it is rare though. They don’t really get mad at me but people just tease me as being him; they know I’m not, they just refer to me as my character as they don’t know my name. They’ll say like “You gotta get away from that girl!” more so during season one. Stuff like that. So yeah, occasionally that would happen. It’s funny though when it happens.
Your character, Jack Porter, plays a major role in Emily’s revenge plan; how would you react if someone were to have you within their Revenge plan? Wow, I don’t know. I guess it would depend on how far they were wiling to let it go. That to me is the interesting thing about Revenge.
What’s it like filming Revenge? Is it as thrilling as the plots? It can be yeah! Like I said, a lot of your time can be downtime. People don’t realise though the amount of time it takes to shoot just one piece of usable footage – it’s insane! We’re only doing like 8 minutes of footage a day. We’ll be shooting several scenes a day, but each one will average 59 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
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You don’t win when you seek revenge...
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...you
lose
was called in for this I auditioned and I came back and Mike Kelly was there and he remembered me. When I went into the room there were also people there that had directed other pilots that I nearly got – it was a room full of people that were kind of rooting for me. I think that was a somewhat ‘reward’ for having stuck it out. If you’re persistent enough, and make enough connections, you come across people in your career and, if you haven’t burnt those bridges, it might just add to the timing being right and the role. out as a minute per page and if our script is 50 pages long, we’re only allowed 40-sometimes minutes, so we have to try act faster to get it all done. So, from getting there and acting, there’s a lot of down time. It’s great I guess as there’s time to joke around with your scene buddy, the only thing is, you can sometimes lose your head. The experience of action shooting is not as thrilling as you want it to be either, but when you get to do it with your scene partner, there’s electricity and it’s lots of fun. What’s been your favourite scene to shoot? My favourite scene that I’ve had as Jack was the moment that I felt the most pride of my performance and I’ll happily accept a complement for it – which is really rare for me. I have a blast doing them. When you watch yourself once the scenes are all pieced together and it’s officially ‘aired’, do you have that buzz when you finally see the final ‘product’? Yes and no. When we’re doing the scenes I’m in my own head judging it thinking, “I’m terrible, what am I doing, I’m barely there… I could have done that better – Oh God, oh God”. And then when I see the finished product I’m like “Oh, that actually goes together really well – certainly better than I expected!” Insecurity is a very selfish trait; I’m usually concerned about my own insecurities, but seeing the finished product you see how good it looks when everyone pulls together and does their job. I don’t come off as bad as I expected, so yeah, I do get a little charge from that – a boost. I’ll feel bad in advance, and then when I see it, I realise that I just need to get off my own case [laughs]! You last played Kyle in Rosewell, how did you then go on to play Jack in Revenge? I mean Roswell was 10-11 years ago, so I had basically 10 years of almost nothing between Rosewell and Revenge; I did the same thing that everyone does. I was submitted for an audition and it just so happened that I had some allies in the casting team. I had screen tested for Mike Kelly’s previous pilot, which I got really close to getting. So when I 60 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
You were a wrestler in high school I believe, how on earth did you go from wrestling to acting? [Laughs] wow, well I don’t know! I was good at wrestling. I was a wrestler in middle school and then in high school. I think the schedule was different and I could only do it after school, but I wanted to do drama and they both clashed. I was cocky and didn’t think drama would be difficult, I thought; “I can do this, it’s easy”. It was mostly because I have a dark sense of humour and I’d think of things that made me laugh and I wanted to have a captive audience for that. I wanted to find an outlet for that and so I joined drama. I don’t regret it at all, but there is a part of me that still is a wrestler. A part of me that loves that kind of competition; it’s still jealous of the actor part of me. If you didn’t pursue acting, you didn’t select acting over wrestling, what would you have loved to pursue? I have no idea! I’m from Albuquerque and that place will just drain the life out of you; it’s a vampire of ambition. There’s not much there to inspire you to be honest. If I’d stayed there, I could see myself living a life where I wouldn’t travel much; I’d probably have just stayed there and got some small job. So you may have become the real Jack Porter? [Laughs] yeah you could say that, but at least he owned his own bar and he had ambitions to travel. At the start of season one he wanted to go to Haiti. If I hadn’t left Albuquerque to pursue acting, I don’t think I would have amounted to much to be honest. I did find out soon after leaving that I have an interest in psychology, but I think that that’s largely because I came out here and got away from the Albuquerque mind-set. I became very interested in psychology and I actually started to take a few semesters at SMC [Santa-Monica Community Collage], to try to get that underway and start chipping away at a psychology degree, one that would allow me to become a therapist. That may be a thing if I ever quite acting. What do you do in your spare time when you’re not filming? I go to a lot of concerts; an insane number of concerts. I go to concerts,
LA VIDA FEATURE
hang out with my friends, go to movies and all those things that ‘normal’ people do. The only things that I do that isn’t normal is that I go to an abnormal amount of concerts – I go to three or 4 a month. I need to be something musical; a musician or a sound guy or something as I’m always at concerts and it’s a shame it’s not tax deductible [laughs]! But unfortunately, I don’t have any musical talent. Without giving anything away, as the third season hasn’t come out yet, what can we expect from Jack? We can expect to see him attempting to abandon his plan for revenge against the Grayson’s. I think he’s done the math and realised what Emily hasn’t realised yet; you don’t win when you seek revenge, you lose. He’s like, “Now that all I have left is my child, I’m not willing to lose my child either because I’ll end up putting my child in harms way somehow, or because I was so single minded about vengeance, that I was taken away from my child because I went out and sought revenge”. If something was to happen and he did seek revenge and he went to, let’s say, prison, the child would be left without a father or a mother. Things have been enforced by circumstances to take a step back and try and live with the injustice. But I think it’s such a fragile house of cards, that his plans to walk away from it are just as fragile. I think he can be easily drawn back into it if something reminds him of how unjust the situation is. We’ll also see more of Jack and Emily; more reminders of their relationship. In terms of fashion, Jack is very casual and laid back wearing simple ‘T’s’ and Jeans. Playing Jack, do you ever get a little wishful to play dress-up in suits and fancy attire as your costars do? I don’t think it would be appropriate for Jack yet. There are moments in season three where you see him dressed a little smarter and different, but him dressed-up is still not gonna be as nice. He’s not going to be as perfectly tailored as the others. I don’t envy it as a character, as it wouldn’t be appropriate, but for my own life I’d love suits that fit me that well and a bunch of nice clothes that look that good.
What would you describe your fashion sense as? Cheating [laughs]! I just wear a lot of black. I don’t really have a fashion sense but I guess my ‘style’ is just very easy and casual but it’s stuff that I like, like form fitting clothes, not tight, just form fitting and then I like slim cuts and dark colours. Do you have any future projects besides Revenge? Anything we can keep our eye out for? No actually. Just trying not to break down I guess and realise how futile this life can be. Right now I don’t have anything on the horizon, I’m just enjoying working on my current gig. I think maybe coming back to England should be your next move. Definitely. I’m pretty sure I’ve been to Manchester a few times so I’ll certainly come back again. I didn’t spend very much time there as I took a train up from London, bare in mind this was 7-8 years ago, but I took a train up to see Radiohead at the 02 Apollo. I think I may have gone up another time. I can’t remember but I know I went to see Little Britain live with my girlfriend at the time. What did you think of Little Britain? It was great! I was a fan of the series anyway, but I thought it was great. I haven’t seen Little Britain America, or whatever the American version is, but I loved the first series of the UK version. In fact, I have one of their box sets at home! Do you have any advice for those who are aspiring to get into the acting industry? You know what’s funny, I was just talking to someone about this last night. Basically, if my child wanted to pursue acting I would just say “God help you”. I really wouldn’t want my child to do it but I wouldn’t stop my child; I would just really hope they would come up with something else that they were interested in. Why do you not think acting would be a suitable career path? It can be great and I wouldn’t dream of diminishing someone’s hopes, but the reality is that it can do a real number on your spirits. It’s very weird. I don’t think being handed the key for the kingdom and having it constantly taken away from you is good. It’s your publicist’s job, your manager’s job and the whole teams job to keep convincing the industry to hand you the keys again. But the longer you have them, the harder it is to let go. It’s a weird thing, if you can’t get them [the industry] to hand you the keys back again, by that time you will have developed enough of an ego that you don’t want to go get a ‘regular’ job. You feel a failure, which is stupid. You were never better than anyone else; it just makes you feel like “I really don’t wanna have to get a regular job”. And on top of it all, the skills you cultivated to become an actor do not apply anywhere else in the world - only in this industry. So, if you are forced by circumstances to go get a ‘regular’ job, you have nothing to fall back on, you have to start at the bottom, and it’s daunting; you’ve chosen rejection for a living. So, my advice would be to have a real think about it, but if they didn’t want to turn back, I would say just wish them the best of luck and advise them to have other sources of emotional income. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket and don’t try to be above getting a ‘regular’ job because you never know how things are going to turn out. Don’t make yourself to precious, be humble and treat acting as if it’s a hobby and you’ll probably get further.
Tune in to the new Season 3 of Revenge that will air on 6th January 2014 on E4 or catch-up on all the previous episodes on 4oD.
61 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Dr. Beautiful The Man Behind
D
ubbed the ‘Picasso Of Botox’, Dr. Esho is one of the rising stars within the UK aesthetic industry and one of its most sought-after cosmetic doctors. Known for his artistic flare and ability, he has an ever-growing and loyal client base. His passion is beauty and his soul desire is to enhance your beauty and help you achieve your own personal ideal. As a highly qualified aesthetic doctor with an excellent background in plastic surgical training, Dr. Esho graduated with an MBChB from Leicester Medical School in 2005 and went on to attain his MRCS, all whilst undertaking plastic surgical training in Leeds. Now working as a respected practitioner within the private sector and for the NHS, his unique skill set regularly features as one of the official UK doctors for the WWE superstars. Tell us about the story behind Le Beau Ideal. How did the company start? The concept started during my time as a plastic surgeon trainee in Leeds. I became more and more interested with facial rejuvenation, especially the concept of enhancing someone’s image with minimally invasive techniques. The ability to create and enhance, combined with my interest of art and fashion, set the foundations in creating Le Beau Ideal. What does Le Beau Ideal stand for? Attaining the ‘beautiful ideal’. I loved the concept, as the meaning is different for every individual. Knowing this, I set to create a bespoke service that would aim to cater to all ideals but at the same time, give the client a soothing environment and a nourishing and luxurious atmosphere.
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Do you feel the environment that your clients are in plays a big part in their cosmetic surgery? Yes, definitely. The atmosphere and environment is key in the journey to a new you. In each of our locations we ensured this part of the experience was maintained and the introduction of our bespoke packages was a natural evolution in enhancing the treatment process. What is the ethos behind the brand? The ethos of the brand is simple – to create a unique facial rejuvenation experience using state of the art anti wrinkle and cosmetic treatments, whilst provide a luxury bespoke concierge service for all our clients. Each client should leave Le Beau Ideal feeling the traditional formality of the cosmetic surgery process has been removed and instead, exchanged for a journey of indulgence. In your opinion, what sets you apart from other aesthetic companies? There is currently no other company like Le Beau Ideal in the market. When a client comes to us, they not only receive a high-quality standard in aesthetic care, but they gain a way of life. From the bespoke packages to the new lifestyle element, both unique, we aim to support our client in all aspects of achieving their ‘Le Beau Ideal’. How would you describe your ideal customer? My ideal client would be a blank canvas – and with that, I mean someone who would come to me with no idea of what they wanted, but trust me to either create a new image for them or enhance what is already there. Just the same as with an artist or a fashion designer, the excitement comes in that creative phase and when you
LA VIDA FEATURE
Credentials
Lead cosmetic doctor and owner of Le beau ideal aesthetics UK Brand ambassador for IS clinical and skin expert Voted good surgeon guides hottest cosmetic professional 2013
have full license to create, you can achieve some amazing results.
– this is one not to miss, so keep your eyes and ears open!
How has 2013 been for you? Everything so far in 2013 has happened so fast. Our new website has launched, which has had rave reviews from respected figures within the industry, and we have just completed our live event for NE1 Newcastle fashion week – not forgetting our bank holiday event Temptation that saw both aesthetics and fashion combine.
You offer a wide variety of treatments, but which has been the most popular to date? Le Beau lip augmentations for sure.
So, talking more specifically about Le Beau Ideal, what treatments do you offer? Well, from Botox to dermal fillers, our clinics have everything to cater to your needs. Our procedures and treatments lists introduce further advanced procedures in the form of injectable treatments – breaking down fat, enabling lipo [liposuction] in the convenience of your lunch break, to the advanced Dracula Face Lift, which takes PRP to the next level. What about your bespoke packages? Within the bespoke packages highlighted on our site, we are stepping it up a gear by fusing the combination of aesthetics, fashion and beauty all in one luxury event. This is where our clients will be able to shop for the latest garments in fashion, experience the best in aesthetic and beauty treatments all whilst enjoying gourmet canapés and refreshments. These events occur in selected private venues around the UK, but we also have plans to do such events in both Dubai and Monaco in 2014 for our clients to further enhance their experience. The next VIP event will be in a secret luxury location in the UK where we will be launching our new champagne facial in association with Goût De Diamants
So how did your nickname ‘Picasso of Botox’ come about then? [Laughs] I was given the nickname from the outcome and interest we were getting with Botox, but it’s changing now as more and more women are seeking lip augmentations. Let’s not mix this up though, I don’t mean the exaggerated ‘trout pout’ that some ladies like to sport, but the subtle, more natural enhancement in both definition and volume of your lips which is our specialty. What has been your career highlight so far? I can’t get too into it, what with patient privacy and confidentiality, but my highlight so far was having the privilege to treat a very important client who requested me after hearing me on the radio discussing aesthetics and fashion. It just hit me how far we have come in such a short space of time and what a lot of hard work and commitment can achieve – as well as support from family and good friends of course.
Take a look online www.lebeauideal.co.uk Follow the team on Twitter @lebeau_ideal Or like and interact with Le Beau Ideal on Facebook with their new live consultation feature coming soon 63 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Liverpool Style Awards
La Vida Diary
Launch party at pure clinic
Juice Fm style awards
The 7th annual Juice FM Style Awards took place late October at the breathtaking Anglican Cathedral.
Top left: Adam Weighell and Gemma Cutting hosted the 2013 Juice FM Style Awards. Bottom left: Alex Gerrard reclaimed her title as Stylish Scouser and was joined by Hollyoaks ladies Gemma Merner and Jennifer Metcalfe. Above: The brilliant Gabrielle performed on the night, as did The Luminites and Little Nikki
Presented by Adam Weighell and Gemma Cutting from Juice FM Breakfast, the awards celebrated Liverpool as the most stylish city in the world – covering everything from music, fashion, sport, retail and culture. The La Vida team arrived in style to show support and, of course, revel with the fashionable ladies and gents of Liverpool with 107.6 Juice FM. Revellers at the Pure Clinic launch party
64 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Manchester Pure Clinic
La Vida popped across town to the highly anticipated grand opening of Pure Clinic Manchester. Manchester’s new home for Botox and laser treatments launched on 12th December with an exclusive cocktail party, live music and the chance to meet the team and learn a little bit more about the treatments on offer.
LA VIDA DIARY
La Vida Diary Liverpool Met Quarter
Manchester Key 103
Jinglebell ball
Francesca Kearns
Jason Lock Photography Robbie Williams and La Vida’s very own Features Editor, Jsky; Little Mix perform looking lovely in black and red; Union J at the Key 103 Jingleball before their performance.
With our love of fashion, La Vida were kindly invited to the VIP launch of Miss Francesa Couture’s flagship store in her home town of Liverpool in the stunning Met Quarter. With doors officially opening on 14th November, the VIP launch party the night before, gave us an insight into Francesca’s fabulous AW13 collection with an exclusive catwalk show, cocktails and a true witness of fashion history. Think big, bold and beautiful and you have Miss Francesca Couture. With a celebrity following from the likes of Michelle Keegan, Alesha Dixon and Helen Flanegan this brand is sure to be a hit
On the 12th December, the roof was lifted at the Phones 4u Arena, Manchester, for Key103’s Jingeball 2013. Some of the biggest acts in the world of pop came together for the annual sellout fundraising concert and La Vida Magazine were there to take in all the action and interview the acts backstage. Robbie Williams, Rizzle Kicks, Pixie Lott, Neon Jungle, The Vamps, Union J, Lawson, Jason Derulo and Rudimental showed the packed arena their most famous pop hits. Stay tuned to La Vida TV page on our website for the exclusive footage.
Jason Lock Photography 65 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Manchester: Zeynep Kartal Debut Collection Zeynep Kartal previewed her upcoming debut collection as part of Vogue Fashion’s Night Out earlier this year in a show presented by La Vida Magazine’s very own Features Editor Jsky. One month later, at the apt surroundings of Room Restaurant Manchester, the fruits of Zeynep’s collection were exposed in tremendous fashion. The staircase catwalk was headed by Hollyoaks ladies Nikki Sanderson, Gemma Merna, and completed by a selection of Nemisis models, including former La Vida cover model Chloe Frankie Peers as well as hair styling by Trevor Sorbie. Guests included Made In Chelsea stars Spencer Matthews and Josh Coombs. Photographs by Carl Sukonik of The Vain Photos
LA VIDA DIARY
From left to right: Made in Chelsea boys Spencer Matthews and Josh Coombs; some of the We Are Indigo PR team; our very own Features Editor Jsky with some of the fashion forward guests. Below (L-R): Matt Peacock with some of the Nemisis Model Agency team; the brilliant Trevor Sorbie hairstyling team.
Nikki Sanderson
Chloe Frankie Peers
Two of our favourite gowns from the Zeynep Kartal Collection
Nikki Sanderson & Gemma Merna
Designer, Zeynep Kartal with Hollyoaks ladies, Nikki Sanderson & Gemma Merna 67 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
VOGUE
LA VIDA DIARY
FASHION’S NIGHT OUT
U
tter the words ‘fashion’ and naturally London is one of the first places that springs to mind. However, as many of you savvy fashionistas know, Manchester stood tall on October 10th, putting itself on the beautifully illustrative fashion map with this years Vogue Fashion’s Night Out. Playing host to one of the biggest events on the fashion calendar with 150 city centre retailers, restaurants and galleries taking part, our Northern city presented the global shopping event put together by none other than Vogue Magazine. The shopping extravaganza was first launched in New York in 2009 by Vogue Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintor, to spice up the retail industry and lift everyone’s sombre moods during the recession. And so, for its fifth year, the Vogue team packed their designer suitcases and took an all-out road trip to Manchester for the citywide soiree. “The Mancunians have been so enthusiastic and the stores have all really made the effort to make it a special night” said the brains behind the fabulous bash, Vogue Editor-inChief Alexandra Shulman. Yet, despite the afternoons train delays from London, leaving a host of fashionistas, VIPs and designers to arrive fashionably late (but thankfully just in the nick of time), the glittering event went down without a hitch in sight.
their amazing New Cathedral flagship store, was buzzing with irrefutable excitement as all (including us) posed expertly in front of the lustrous backdrop whilst surveying the store to spot our favourite fashion icons. From Erdem, Henry Holland, Jonathon Saunders and the Vogue team, the store was filled with names that could make our knees go jelly-like – luckily cocktails were in hand to give us a little ‘Dutch courage’ as we rubbed shoulders.
There was no backdrop this time, nor a photobooth, but instead a giant Selfridge’s shopping bag for hilarious photographic memorabilia to be shot.
The store’s beauty floor also took part, offering MAC makeovers for a little fix-up between camera shots and events, all the whilst our feature girl Eliza Doolittle and fashionista Jameela Jamil spun the decks looking every so stylish “Bringing Fashion’s Night – but we didn’t expect anything less. Out to its [Manchester’s]
Harvey Nichols was next on our list with their illustrious streets is the next logical step The party was also anniversary marking a decade in Exchange in the evolution of Fashion’s extended into the Square. The birthday streets with an outdoor Night Out in the UK” bash began in serious Vogue Eats pop-up style as the who’s market on King Street, who of the fashion elite joined the party in featuring a variety of local vendors all ready to celebration of VFNO. take part. On the fashion side of King Street, Vivienne Westwood’s regional store left no The fashion crowds flocked to the shopping disappointment to passers-by. Offering an party to catch a glimpse of their favourite eclectic event with music, photographers, designers and guests in their little customised cocktails and Vogues very own Deputy Wendy houses, or style sheds as we like to Editor, Emily Sheffield (dressed in an ankle call them. With cupcakes, popcorn, jelly, ice skimming Gold Label skirt from the brand) cream, sweets and, of course, cocktails, the whom La Vida exclusively interviewed, talking Harvey Nichols birthday bash was certainly all things fashion, Westwood and, of course, one to put down in the fashion photo album. VFNO.
Their beauty floor became a playground of Twister, Spin the Lipstick and Pin the Ponytail on Karl as well as a little hair pick-me-up for the tired shoppers, courtesy of Umberto Gianni (whose salon opened on the 3rd December). With the region’s most fabulous fashionistas So, with our freshly blown hair glistening turning on with Charmsies, we made our the style with to the department stores “The Mancunians have been way their FNO first floor to take a peak in their so enthusiastic and the stores style sheds. Housing a selection T-shirts and limited-edition have all really made the effort of designers and famous faces FNO Chanel from Sophia Webster, Marcus to make it a special night” Le Vernis Lupfer, Roksanda Ilincic, Joanna manicures, the Sykes, Joleon Lescott and Made October 10th event can only be described in Chelsea’s Oliver Proudlock and Jamie as a carnivalesque catwalk, flowing with Lang, some were personally designing the champagne, canapés, designers and fashion exclusive FNO T-shirts whilst others were at icons – and of course La Vida. your cameras disposal – or that of the pop-up photobooth. “Bringing Fashion’s Night Out to its [Manchester’s] streets is the next logical step Moving across our paved catwalk for the in the evolution of Fashion’s Night Out in evening, Selfridges welcomed shoppers with the UK” said Alexandra Shulman – watch out whisky elderflower cocktails and Sex and the London, you’ve got competition. City-esque cosmopolitans as well as crepes, candyfloss and many more sweet-tooth The official Hugo Boss launch party, held in delights on sale.
Further downstream, Spinningfields gave it their all with music and mayhem on The Avenue as Flannels offered us an evening with our very own, Manchester born designer, Matthew Williamson. Venturing now back uptown, Skin Health Spa pampered the last shoppers standing with well-deserved make-overs, hand scrubs and much needed manicures, ready for the evenings final destination – the official VFNO after-party at Malmaison, closing the days remarkable event in style and sophistication. With goodies and shopping bags in hand, the days surreal event came to a bittersweet end and we can only hope (although already convinced from our interview with Emily) that Manchester will yet again host Vogue Fashion’s Night Out and our streets will again buzz and light up with excitement. So, until next year Vogue, where we will hopefully welcome you all once again with jewel-encrusted arms. But for now, thank you for our fabulous event and showing that Manchester is firmly on the fashion map. Written by Athina Macpherson
Voguue Fashion Director Lucinda Chambers with the lip-tastic shoe designer Sophia Webster talking about how it feels to see your designs come to life.
A LITTLE Q&A
The Made in Chelsea boys, Oliver Proudlock and Jamie Lang, speak to Harvey Nichols’s Menswear Buying Manager Darren Skey - according to Jamie, 25 is the limit on how many Jaffa Cakes you should eat!.
La Vida managed to squeeze a few Q&A’s between events with some of our favourite designers and fashion icons at Harvey Nichols. Local graffiti artist, Evan Barlow,
JOANNA SYKES The British designer and Central Saints Martins graduate took on the role as Creative Director for heritage brand Nicole Farhi back in July 2012 and, although her main focus is Nicole Farhi, she revealed she has hopes to reinvigorate her own label ‘SYKES’ back into the industry. With over eleven years in the industry, we certainly believe she has the experience and talent to do so. Oozing style and confidence in one of her monochrome A/W13 knits, Joanna describes the Nicole Farhi woman as a “free spirited”, “creative” and “individual” woman who doesn’t just follow trends. And, for those of you craving more fashion advice from the Creative Director herself, she tells us her favourite look for AW/13 is the androgynous trend, something quite far from her love for pink, but that’s fashion right? Our fellow Brit also tells us every woman should have a good coat, particularly as here in the UK it’s “freezing”, something we couldn’t agree on more!
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customised a giant number 10 at the front of the store capturing the fashion faces at the party.
Joanna was keen to praise her six-year experience with designer Giorgio Armani stating he was a huge influence in her career, “I think what he’s done with women’s tailoring is incredible and it’s so inventive at the same time and feminine, his ethos of ‘less-is-more’ has been a huge influence on me. He likes to bring out the simple essence of the wardrobe. I learned a lot about fit and how to get clothes to fit really well and feel fantastic”. To round the Q&A off, the question that most of the fashion icons were asked throughout the evening was fired: “What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received throughout your career?” Proving she is just as down to earth and human as the rest of us, Joanna, almost cynically, replied with “trust no one, assume nothing and check everything”. We are certainly excited to see what Joanna has planned for Nichole Farhi and we will be keeping our eyes peeled to see what her eponymous label will be doing in the future.
LA VIDA DIARY
JONATHON SAUNDERS Glasgow born designer, Jonathon Saunders, was another icon we had the pleasure to catch up with during Harvey Nichols’s birthday bash. Dressed chicly in black, he pauses to think before answering questions the Manchester fashion pack eagerly await answers for. Known for his use of prints and colour, Saunders describes each season’s collection as the “antithesis” of what is previously worked on, “If the season before was very strict and stubborn, then my automatic reaction is to do the opposite, something that’s more free-spirited and more relaxed”. The honorary Londoner gets most of his inspiration from the capital where you can often find him pondering in bookshops and galleries. As a designer he states he “loves things that are new”, and the mix of cultures and shops in London is the perfect place to be inspired for next season’s designs. As for working for fashion giant Alexander McQueen, he tells us “It’s not as scary as you would think, you just have to work hard”. Confirming that putting effort into everything you do is the key to success and development, he opens up saying “I think I can speak on behalf of many designers when I say that all of us make mistakes and all of us try things that don’t always work” - nice to know!
ROKSANDA ILINCIC Designer Roksanda Ilincic spoke to Vogue Fashion Features Director Sarah Harris. Dressed in an on-trend, baby pink PVC skirt, it was obvious Roksanda’s calling was fashion and not architecture as she first thought. “In my life I tried to do different things. I actually started with architecture, thinking that’s going to be my profession but it never was. Instead of architecture magazines I bought fashion magazines.” And lucky for us as this Serbian fashion designer has graced the fashion world with many elegant day and evening dresses with her eponymous label.
Designer Marcus Lupfer spoke about his drive to become a designer and how he knew leaving Germany would be the best way to follow his fashion dreams. 71 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
ALEXANDRA SHULMAN Think Editor-In-Chief and naturally a Devil Wears Prada-esque woman comes to mind; intimidating yet well groomed and confident. Well that was before we met the wonderfully down-to-earth Alexandra Shulman who was another icon among the numerous fashion faces at Vogue Fashion’s Night out and Harvey Nichols’ birthday bash. Describing her style as “haphazard” and her number one wardrobe staple to be a pair of Manolo Blaniks, we found ourselves quite in awe of this effortlessly dressed woman, who won’t go higher than a mid-heel. Proving she was happy to be there, she chatted in depth and happily answered our questions. Emphasising her minimalistic style she tells us she is enjoying the androgynous, minimal, sportswear feel that a lot of the designers have done for SS14 and will definitely be buying a bomber jacket “or two” she adds. And if she isn’t amazing enough, whilst pursuing a career at Vogue she also had time to write her book “Can We Still Be Friends”. Although telling us it “wasn’t a life long ambition”, she is “really glad” she did it - with the eagerly awaited book now being shared amongst the La Vida ladies, we will be sad to put it down. Another trait Alexandra showed was her respect and support for the designers as she “wouldn’t want to pick one out” when asked whom she felt was making wavelengths in the industry. Instead, Alexandra expressed how “thoroughly grateful” she was of the designers for coming up to Manchester to take part in the sublime fashion event. Well, we certainly are thankful British Vogue has such an influential woman as Editor.
THE FASHION-PACK AT THE HUGO BOSS OPENING PARTY...
Henry Holland, Jonathan Saunders & Christopher Kane Image credit: James Mason
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Sam Rollinson; Christopher Kane; William Banks-Blaney Erdem Moralioglu; some of the La Vida team; Bay Garnett & Alexandra Shulman
LA VIDA DIARY
Written by Mariana Cerqueira
VIVIENNE WESTWOOD & VFNO La Vida take a trip to Vivienne Westwood’s regional King Street store to shop, take part in the VFNO party and talk exclusively to the lovely Emily Sheffield
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n the space of a few decades, Vivienne Westwood went from estranged to beloved in this kingdom. Labelled by the newspapers when she first started as ‘unwearable’ and ‘nothing to do with fashion’, she now has the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Meryl Streep, amongst many other fashion icons, wearing her pieces. Manchester is certainly one lucky city as it homes the North’s regional store dedicated to Vivienne Westwood’s eponymous brand.
told people to stop buying clothes and is a professed anti-capitalist. Her designs may change throughout the years, but the motivation to stand by and rebel against what she considers to be wrong, does not.
Housed in a beautiful 19th century listed building, the Manchester shop is a must visit location for any fashion lover to enjoy the iconic status of Dame Westwood’s designs. With adorned high ceilings and sturdy wood furniture, it is one of the most Once a primary school teacher, Vivienne tasteful and iconic venues in town, oozing Westwood only ended up in fashion because class that matches some of her designs but her boyfriend at the time, Malcom Mclarren, paradoxically clashes with others - in a good needed someone to help him with the clothes. way of course. Her designs were displayed in the London boutique Mclarren opened and were later Storing all four labels of the brand, no worn by the pioneering punk rock band he shopper will be disappointed by the lack managed, the Sex Pistols. Now considered one of choice: Gold Label – the brands couture of the most important personalities of punk, ready-to-wear line; Red Label – the prêt-aWestwood was responsible for the creation porter line, representing Vivienne’s interest in of the movement’s uniform, characterised by Savile Row tailoring; ripped fabric, safety pins and S&M influences. Anglomania – the diffusion line taking The essence behind everything Vivienne inspiration from the Westwood does is very simple, ‘make the brands extensive world a better place’. The obscenity in her archives; and MAN designs during her punk years was justified, – the dedicated with the aim to shock British society at the menswear collection time, as she felt “so outraged by the way the emphasising world is so corrupt and mismanaged”. She tailoring and British created a T-Shirt in support of Julian Assange, fabrics.
There is a varied range of accessories too - the collaboration of the brand with The Cambridge Satchel Company, the iconic tartan bags, Westwood’s Melissa shoes, and not to mention the stunning jewellery. The wonderful scent you’ll smell from the moment you walk in is, thankfully, also available to purchase as part of Westwood’s fragrance collection. Buying a Vivienne Westwood piece is not just pure shopping though, it’s buying into the conviction of a better world, or at least the fight for one. All of Westwood’s designs are born out of something she wants to express as for her, fashion is about the message. Unlike many other brands that do not have their creator with them, Vivienne Westwood’s brand is still created by the lady herself, giving the pieces that unique and personal touch that some fashion houses may lack. Combining such a charismatic brand with a fantastic location is a recipe for success that you have to see for yourself. Vivienne Westwood’s exclusive collaboration with The Cambridge Satchel Company. 73 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Vivienne Westwood Gold Label AW13-14 Catwalk
Julie Deane, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company; the exclusive Vivienne Westwood and Cambridge Satchel collaboration; Cambridge Satchel limited luggage tags, only available at Vivienne Westwood, Manchester
EMILY SHEFFIELD La Vida exclusively interviewed Vogue’s beautiful Deputy Editor, Emily Sheffield, at the Vivienne Westwood King Street store VFNO party. Interviewed by Athina Macpherson Event images: Steven Ramage
How would you describe your average day at Vogue? I don’t really have an average day because it always changes. Last week for example I was on a shoot with Neneh Cherry, the singer, but otherwise we might be in the office going to features meetings, fashion meetings and ringing up writers and commissioning them. We also have meetings with designers and lunches with PR companies. I also do a lot of writing, although I usually write interviews up at home because you can’t always concentrate in the office. We then go to fashion week twice a year, which is really good fun. It’s a very exciting job because it feels like most weeks are fairly different which keeps things interesting. How did you launch yourself into the world of fashion? I was a news journalist for ten years and that lead me into doing features. This was at a time when fashion was beginning to explode in London and at the Evening Standard we launched a section called ‘Life and Style’ which was quite revolutionary because it was bringing a whole fashion section into a daily newspaper. Going back 10/15 years, newspapers barely had any fashion in them and now they are filled with fashion. Later I went on to Harpers to do a maternity leave cover and then went on to Vogue to again cover someone on maternity leave. It was whilst I was covering that I was then offered the deputy job, I have been there for the last 7 years now and I’ve had a really good time. I have always loved fashion and have always had Vogue plastered all over my walls since the age of seven.
How would you describe your personal style? I’m not sure I really have a personal style, I really enjoy clothes and I like changing what I wear, that’s what is fun about it. Some people are quite strict and like to stick to black and white or tailoring but I like to switch depending on the mood I’m in. My fallback is jeans, an overcoat, trainers and a white t-shirt – that’s my everyday wear. Tonight I’m wearing a Vivienne Westwood skirt [Gold Label], which I love, and earlier I was wearing a leather skirt with Jimmy Choo flats. I never dress tarty, I like to look a little undone and a bit rock chick. I don’t like to look too pulled together, that’s not me. What is the best piece of style advice you have been given? Kate Phelan, the Fashion Director at Vogue, once said to me, “As soon as you’ve had children, don’t dress like a little girl”, and she is absolutely right. So many trends now are quite cute, for example the little bow-peep collars and tunics, which essentially are for young girls and once you’ve had children you should dress like a grown woman. What do you think about Manchester being chosen to host this year’s Fashion Night Out? I think it’s really great. It’s important to remember London isn’t the centre of everything. Most of the ‘London’ designers didn’t actually come from London. Christopher Kane and Jonathon Saunders who are both here tonight, they came from Glasgow. I’m from the North, my Dad lives near Doncaster and I’ve spent time in Manchester. I worked with the Guardian at Manchester Evening News when I was 23. I think the point about fashion is that everyone, wherever you go whether in Britain or around the world, loves fashion. What do you think about our fashion up here in the North West? I think it’s amazing; all the girls I’ve seen tonight look really chic. We are here in Vivienne Westwood who have had staggering sales figures this evening. I’m looking forward to seeing a bit more of what everyone is wearing in the clubs later on. We feel that Manchester has really stepped up its game in the fashion world. What do you think of Manchester and its adaptation to London, our perceived fashion mecca? There have been a lot of big movements that have come out of Manchester, particularly music wise and music is a huge influence on fashion. I want to repeat, I don’t think London is the centre of everything. There are cultural movements that come out of cities all over the world, especially the North. It’s about the whole of the country. It’s about the countryside where we get our beautiful tartans and plaids and then it’s about the cities where they have their urban cultural music movements; all of that plays into fashion every single day.
La Vida female fashion writer Holly Brooke & Managing Editor Athina Macpherson with Vogue Deputy Editor, Emily Sheffield
In regards to Vivienne Westwood, who is such an iconic designer, how do you think she influenced fashion today? She influences us today because she is a part of a cultural movement; she was part of the huge cultural punk movement. What I love about Vivienne Westwood is that she still embodies everything she stood for as a teenager when she started her brand with Malcolm McLaren. She runs a global corporate business, but there is still a sort of rawness and magic about her and I think that is why so many generations think she is a total hero. All around the world she is revered and I think that is completely right. How do you feel she represents Britain? I think she is completely iconic of what Britain has stood for in fashion over the years. British designers today are absolutely fearless. Christopher Kane is a prime example, something comes from the heart when they try and break the rules and move fashion on and make it more exciting. Without British designers, fashion around the world would be a bit boring. It’s important to remember that Britain is having resurgence at the moment, which is felt around the globe. Most editors now think that coming to London is one of the most exciting stops on the circuit. Vivienne Westwood strongly believes in her ‘buy less, spend well’ motto, what would be your one piece from Vivienne Westwood that you couldn’t live without? I’d get one of her big tartan plaid coats; I think they are really beautiful. I totally agree with her ‘buy less, spend well’ motto. As I’ve got older I now really save up for something I want, like these Prada shoes I’m wearing, they are the only thing I’ve bought this season. I now buy less and spend more wisely. Yes it is more expensive, but they will last a lot longer so it’s all about cost per wear. I think fast and cheap fashion is not a good thing, I am about budget yes, but not too cheap, I don’t want to worry about where the clothes have been made and who they have been made by and in what way. 75 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
WINTER FITNESS SURVIVAL GUIDE With personal trainer
Hayley Newton
Hibernating, although highly tempting, isn’t going to burn any of those extra calories. Winter-proof your workout and your waistline with our seasonal survival guide by personal trainer to the stars, Hayley Newton.
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t’s tricky, especially with the colder weather, to stick not only to your healthy eating – craving those comfort foods – but also keeping up that love-hate relationship with the gym – the sofa is just so appealing this time of year. Here though are a few facts and pointers to help ensure you don’t become a couch potato.
FLIP BACK THAT CHEMICAL SWITCH During winter our body’s chemical switch has flipped to storing more fat. Our body almost doubles the production of ATLPL, a chemical that promotes fat storage, during
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winter, whereas in summer, it more than halves. As incredibly clever this is of our bodies, it’s not ideal for maintaining a svelte figure year round. But don’t worry, you’re not doomed to wear fat pants all season. Exercise during this chilly climate promotes the increase of SMLPL, the muscle enzyme that promotes the burning of fat, offsetting the podge-promoting effects of ATLPL.
PEEL YOURSELVES OFF THE SOFA The next issue to tackle though, and more often than not the hardest, is to find a way to peel ourselves off the
LA VIDA LIFESTYLE incredibly comfy sofa and rev-up our bodies to increase our SMLPL. There are numerous ways to incorporate exercise into our daily routines but first things first, we need to get motivated! Motivation is the key component here and the best way to get up and at it, is self-motivation. Yes, this may sound a little odd, but this is the catalyst. When you get back from your long day at the office, although you may want to just slip into your baggy tracksuit and fluffy slippers, don’t! Motivate yourself by changing straight out of your workwear and straight into your work-outwear – this is the best motivation!
LET’S GET PHYSICAL OUTDOORS Next, exercise. Although many of us have been accustomed to relating exercise with the ambivalent concept of the gym, there are many other fun ways of incorporating exercise into our daily routine during wintertime – even just half an hour of exercise a day will help release those endorphins and increase those allimportant serotonin levels (you’ll see why these serotonin levels are important shortly). Just taking your dog out for its daily walk and having a little jog alongside gets your heart pumping within minutes – perfect! That’s already some cardio for the day done. Anything that gets your blood pumping and creates some sweat is perfect in keeping off the pounds. Another little trick when working out, especially come wintertime when it’s necessary, is to pile on the layers. The more insulation you have, the quicker you sweat and the more you sweat, the more you body is heating up and burning calories. So maybe, in hindsight, winter is the perfect time to burn calories, as layers are a necessity!
LET’S GET PHYSICAL INDOORS Don’t fancy going outside? Not to worry, there are tons of inside hobbies that will get your motor running other than the gym. Swimming is great for an overall body workout, and it’ll also motivate you to keep looking your best when you slip into that swimsuit. Thought you’d grown out of the trampoline phase? Think again! Trampolining is a great cardiovascular exercise that strengthens your legs but it’s also great, great fun. How’s your hand-eye coordination? Good? Bad? It doesn’t really matter; you can still try your hand at dancing and kickboxing. Both these exercises are high-energy workouts guaranteed to burn calories and fat. The cardioconditioning element of both dancing and kickboxing is one of the most effective ways to burn fat – especially that stubborn belly fat. And again, it can be great fun!
LET’S GET PHYSICAL AS A GROUP If you’re looking for a group activity, why not try indoor wall climbing. Indoor climbing isn’t only fun, but no matter what aspect of your body you’re interested in improving, whether it be your cardiovascular health, toning muscles or losing a little weight, indoor climbing is just what you need as an overall body workout. If you do want to change it up a bit and fancy venturing
outside with friends and family, why not wrap-up and go on a leisurely bike ride or, something even more fun, ice-skating! Ice-skating is the perfect festive hobby to indulge in. Whether it be with your loved one or a group of friends, it’s great fun and also works out most parts of your body – especially those abs from laughing so hard. The list is honestly endless when it comes to exercising – you just have to be creative!
EAT THE RIGHT HABITS Diet, as you all know, is just as important as exercise. It’s not worth doing all this hard work physically if you’re not going to be cautious with your eating habits. It’s very common to put on weight during this season and only if you understand why this is so, will you truly be able to kick those extra pounds to the curb. As the days get shorter during these months, the lack of sunlight during the winter season makes serotonin in the brain less active. Too little of this mood-lifting chemical leaves us feeling tired and hungry. And so, we crave carbohydrates - the foods that temporarily increase our serotonin levels. Carbohydrates are a quick fix and not a long-term solution, but this doesn’t mean you must avoid carbs entirely. Proteins contain tryptophan, a large amino that converts to serotonin in the brain which works best when consumed in conjunction with low-fat, healthy carbs such as brown rice, nuts, legumes, sweet potatoes, oatmeal and, of course, fruit and veg. These ‘good’ carbohydrates are essential in helping your brain properly process the tryptophan in protein. So, as our cravings get typically stronger during the day, consuming protein rich foods such as fish, chicken, eggs, cottage cheese, nuts and beans suppresses these cravings, regulating your serotonin levels and, of course, your waistline.
DON’T BE CRUEL THIS SEASON But lets be realistic for a minute. It’s the festive season and it’s going to be damn hard to stay away from those mince pies and chocolates, so don’t! It’s not healthy to suppress your body from something that it craves (hence eating good carbs is good as opposed to not eating any at all). The more you suppress your body’s natural cravings, the more you will crave it and the more likely you are to binge eat. Everything is good in moderation. So, if you are prone to pinching the pies and scoffing the chocolate, be vigilant. Keep reminding yourself that you’ve done so well and you will allow yourself a treat – ‘treat’ being the key word, not a regular occurrence. A little tip to ensure you don’t go overboard is to keep your cupboard and fridge fully stocked up with healthy fruit and veg, that way you can ‘pick’ at the healthy stuff. But remember, go to the supermarket after you’ve eaten, otherwise your cravings and hunger take control of the trolley. The main trick though, and something that I swear by, is motivation. Stay motivated and positive and you can truly do anything you put your mind to. 77 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
F OREV ER U N IQU E G ET Y O UR 2 0 1 4 FA S H IO N F I X We sift though magazines from weekly gossip publications to high fashion couture just to get our fashion fixes. It could be because we are looking for that special little something to wear on a night on the town to show your fellow colleagues and friends just how fashion forward you are, or it may be to get some clear ideas for a full walk in wardrobe overhaul for the season ahead. Either way, we all take note of the key season trends in order to stay ahead of the most influential concept in the world; fashion!
Key season fashion trends for Autumn/Winter 2014 have been available to purchase since Summer 2013, with most designers dropping a Cruise Collection in between seasons as teaser campaigns. 2014 holds a range of different key season trends with an array of colours and textures to suit every taste, preference and budget: Fruity florals in fine and large prints with fondant shades; metallic and satin fabrics from shift dresses, suits and eveningwear; sheer fabrics, layered-up
during the day and left sheer for the evening; and pleated skirts worn as mini, midi and maxi lengths Online fashion website Forever Unique showcase a selection of all of the above fashion trends in a series of dresses, playsuits and separates for all occasions. To stay ahead of fashion trends, you don’t have to be a fashion victim. Take inspiration from fashion trends and incorporate them into your own personal style. Be a fashion leader, plan early and stay ahead of the trends.
SL ATE R S NEW Y E AR . NE W S TY LE Revising and decluttering your winter wardrobe is not only therapeutic, but it will also give you a head start in giving yourself a great confidence boost. We’re talking about a clear, concise fashion overhaul that will give you a capsule wardrobe to wear throughout the current season. You don’t have to buy items that you will only wear once on a Saturday night out; it’s about buying investment pieces that are durable, fashionable and wearable from season to season. Take advantage of the post Christmas sales and hit the high street with a budget in mind and try and stick to buying all round garments that you can mix and match to get the most out of each ensemble. Learn about picking the right shirt, the most flattering chinos, your all-round 3-piece suit suitable for any occasion and the perfect brogues to complete your look. Visit us online to find out the tricks and tips for your new wardrobe with Slater’s Menswear. Alternatively, visit Slater’s menswear and choose from their large selection of men’s fashion items for all occasions. Go and get your fashion fix and ooze with style and confidence for 2014. 78 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
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EATING CLEAN & LEAN Welcome to part 2 of our Clean and Lean way of life. In our last issue, we covered the basics of this eating regime and now we’re back to give you more help on your mission to become healthier and slimmer. One of the biggest reasons as to why many of you may find it hard to lose weight is because of your eating habits. Nowadays, we’re targeted daily by endless advertisements dictating and influencing us what we should eat and how we should eat them. Take the Just-Eat advertisements for example, with their ‘Don’t cook, Just Eat’ slogan promoting takeaway food as opposed to cooking at home. Most of these companies and these adverts fail to inform us that eating fruit and veg is the best possible diet, but instead to stock up on sugar-loaded artificial products. The worst thing is, most of the time we fall for it because it’s an easy, convenient and perfect fit to our busy lifestyle. What we must remember though, regardless of what we have thrown at us, is that food is the fuel that our body needs to get us through that same busy life – working, thinking, taking the kids schools, watching TV, going to the gym, and so on and so forth. So, if our body is so important, why do we cut on the time we should spend treasuring it? This is why eating Clean and Lean should be one of our top priorities in life. Remember that if you don’t take care of your body, you can’t just order another one online. Breakfast is our topic of conversation today, known as the most important meal of the day, yet the most affected meal by society’s conceptions. Think about your idea of breakfast. Does it consist of cereal and milk? Bread, butter and jam? Concentrated juice? 82 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Or even a fry-up or a muffin as a special treat? These are the typical breakfasts we see on our TV screens, in films, on adverts and what everyone else eats. But is it possible that everyone is wrong? Yes. All of the above, although quick to make in some cases and deliciously filling in others, are not suitable for your morning meal, as they don’t give us what we need to start our day properly. High in sugar, salt and saturated fat and low in nutrients and protein, these breakfast options may taste good when you eat them, although they do offer some temporary energy, they do not give you what you need for a healthy lifestyle. Changing your idea of breakfast is the first step towards healthier habits, and a big part of the Clean and Lean lifestyle. The first, and the easiest, thing you need to learn is when exactly to have breakfast. Breakfast should be eaten within an hour of waking up in order to kick-start your metabolism. If you don’t eat within an hour of opening your sleepy eyes, then your body will hold onto what it can to give you energy; that being fat. The second thing is the importance of protein. Unlike sugary breakfasts that give you an energy slump mid morning (notice that when you eat a sugary breakfast an hour or two later you hit an energy slump and crave more sugary foods for that extra energy boost), protein will leave you full for longer. If that wasn’t enough to makes us happy, protein rich breakfasts also give you a metabolism boost which will make your body burn more calories and fat – don’t you love protein already? Be it chicken, eggs, smoked salmon, milk, cheese or yoghurt, this should be an essential ingredient in your daily breakfast. It may sound strange to think of a breakfast that includes
LA VIDA LIFESTYLE chicken, but we assure you your body will love it. But, if you aren’t ready for chicken yet, start including protein in your breakfast by having poached or boiled eggs or even yoghurt with granola and fruit, and then, once comfortable, start to experiment with different recipes. The other must-have on our breakfast help-list are greens. You may think we’ve hit our head somewhere, but don’t let your marketing-led conceptions of breakfast fool you. Don’t choose sugar and fat over vitamins and fibre. Instead, opt for a combination of protein and greens to best start your day by providing your body with exactly what it needs to get through the day. Other than recipe options, there are a few more aspects you should keep in mind.
HYDRATION IS KEY Our body is, or should be, 50% water, so at breakfast time and for the remainder of the day, don’t forget to refuel. Aim to drink eight to ten glasses of water a day, and more if you exercise. The perfect way to hydrate over breakfast is to mix a cup full of warm water with half a freshly squeezed lemon. Although this may not be your cup of tea (literally), this will not only hydrate you but it will also help detox your system and give you a clean slate for the new day.
DON’T FORGET TO VARY Eggs are a great starting point for breakfast but try not to make them your regular breakfast. Variety is also one of the key teachings of the Clean and Lean regime, as your body needs a wide range of vitamins, nutrients and other components. If you stick to eating the same food over and over again you will be providing your body with the same set ingredients, which will eventually lead to deficits. These deficits can lead to health problems because your body is not getting everything it needs to properly function. There is an endless world of possibilities for breakfast recipes, as long as you let go of your prejudice against having some of the morning ingredients, just don’t forget the protein and greens formula and you’re good to go. For instance, avocado helps you burn body fat and improves the condition of your hair, skin and nails, while asparagus makes your tummy de-bloat – both are a great option to fill your greens’ quota.
RUSHING IS NO EXCUSE Not making time for a healthy breakfast is one of the worst lifestyle mistakes one can make, so make sure you try to change this habit by waking up half an hour earlier. Another option is to prepare your breakfast the night before, storing it in the fridge for the next morning. Homemade oatmeal is a great example – you can even take it to work and eat it there, as long as it is still within an hour of you waking up. Alternatively, slice half an avocado and grab a few oatcakes for a healthy breakfast on the go.
ORGANIC IS ALWAYS BETTER As we covered in our last issue, opt for the least man altered food whenever possible. The more a product resembles its original state (the less it was transformed by man) the better it is for you – the overall notion behind eating Clean and Lean. Go for organic eggs instead of free-range for example, as they contain more Omega 3, helping you burn more fat. Now that you know what you need to do, what better way to start your day than by giving your body exactly what it needs. You’ll soon feel healthier and stronger, not to mention the shedding of those extra pounds. You shouldn’t wait for summer to give a health boost to your life – start now and start with a Clean and Lean lifestyle.
BLUEBERRY BUCKWHEAT PANCAKES Ingredients: 3/4 cup buckwheat flour 3/4 cup wholemeal flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup buttermilk 3/4 cup non-fat milk 1 tablespoon honey 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries, divided 1/2 cup real maple syrup Directions: 1. In a large bowl whisk together the flours, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 2. In another bowl, beat together the buttermilk, non-fat milk, honey, eggs, and oil. 3. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing only enough to combine them. 4. Stir in 1 cup of fresh or still-frozen blueberries - if you are using frozen berries, thaw the other cup of berries at this time so they are thawed for serving (make sure the blueberries you add to the batter are still frozen otherwise they will turn your batter blue!). 5. Preheat a large non-stick griddle or skillet over a medium flame. 6. Ladle the batter onto the skillet with a 1/4-cup measure. 7. Flip the pancake when it is golden brown on the bottom and bubbles are forming on top - about 1 1/2 minutes. 8. Cook the other side until golden brown - about 1 1/2 minutes. 9. Serve topped with more blueberries and honey. To store, cover the remaining batter with cling film and place in the fridge. To cook, follow the above cooking directions.
Recipe and images from www.dinnerwithaura.com
*TOP TIP Berries are rich in antioxidants to detox your system, packed with vitamin C, to help your body deal with stress and full of fiber which helps to regulate blood-sugar levels. 83 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
IT’S ALL ABOUT BLU
R
adisson Blu is one of the worlds leading brands with more than 290 hotels in operation in 62 countries. Part of the Carlson Rezidor hotel group, Radisson Blu is also Europe’s largest upper upscale brand, offering vibrant, contemporary and engaging hospitality, characterised by their unique and admirable ‘Yes I Can’ service ethos.
LIVERPOOL This contemporary 4-star deluxe hotel is set in the heart of Liverpool’s city centre with breathtaking views over the River Mersey and Irish Sea. Its excellent location in the business district, close to the city’s major attractions and a short walk from Liverpool ONE, the newly built Metquarter and illustrious Albert Dock, makes this hotel ideal for business during the week and the ultimate leisurely escape on the weekend. But the enviable location of Radisson Blu Liverpool is only one of many exceptional attributes. The beautiful hotel features striking interiors and 194 modern and stylish state of the art guestrooms decorated in ocean blues and urban reds.
and packages for you and your friends as preparation to hit the big city, or as part of a pampered getaway.
Located around the world, Radisson Blu hotels have become a perfect destination for travellers, vacationers and businessmen and women as a home away from home – with all the added luxuries. Here in the North West, we are graced with two of the most iconic Radisson Blue hotels in our major cities of Liverpool and Manchester.
The hotels Filini restaurant also extends a truly contemporary and memorable experience with the restaurants simply cooked authentic Italian foods, comprised of the best fresh ingredients from Italy and its many regions. With the restaurants extensive wine list from across Italy, Filini is the perfect foodie destination whether you’re staying at the stylish hotel or not. The dark wooden floors and neutral background come together perfectly with the vintage red-leather seating, draping red curtains and atmospheric lighting, while rustic Italian framework adorns large windows that overlook the River Mersey as if you were in the heart of Venice itself. Alternatively, the hotel’s cosmopolitan White Bar is a prominent destination for business meetings, socialising with friends and relaxing away from the hectic urban city life. Set in a grade II listed cottage, you can enjoy sharing platters and a bottle of wine with
For a more luxurious escape, the hotels newly refurbished Ark Health Club is complementary to those staying, yet available for anyone, providing the latest exercise equipment and personal trainers at hand as well as an impressive swimming pool, sauna and whirlpool. If you’re after a more pampered visit, the hotel offers an array of revolutionary wellness treatments 84 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
your desired companions, or savour salad, pasta or tapas dishes whilst sipping some of the freshest, most imaginative cocktails in Liverpool by talented mixologists. So, whether you’re staying for business using one of the hotels nine meeting rooms, visiting the metropolitan city, getting pampered with friends, or simply wining and dining away from home, this superb premier hotel is the idyllic location for everyone. And whilst most travellers know Radisson as a mainline business hotel, a glimpse at its social offerings certainly changes any preconceived notions, providing a stylish and luxurious destination in the heart of Liverpool.
Radisson Blu Hotel Liverpool 107 Old Hall Street L3 9BD, Liverpool United Kingdom 0151 966 1500 info.liverpool@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.co.uk
MANCHESTER Located beside Manchester Airport, this Radisson Blu has been one of Carlson Razidor’s flagship hotels since 1998. The hotel has become a favourite for businessmen and women and vacationers traveling to, from and within Manchester. As the only hotel directly connected to the
Manchester Airport terminals and bus and coach stations, Radisson Blu is perfectly located for both business trips and holidays with 27 adaptable meeting rooms, a Business Lounge and 360 guest rooms; the iconic hotel is perfectly equipped to handle any requirement you need – including health and fitness with their on site Pace Health Club with a well-equipped gym, indoor pool, steam room, sauna and on-site Beauty Lounge for all your pre vacation treatments. Their restaurant and bar offers impeccable food and unique cocktails to those passing through to make their visit even more exceptional. The Radisson Blu hotel has always been a luxurious destination, however, with the hotels recent work to radically transform all core elements of the property over the next three years, the Manchester Airport hotel is set to reach new bounds of opulence. Graven Images have taken over this £10 million project – the largest current hotel investment programme in the North of England – to completely transform the quintessential hotel in three phases, over three years, with the first phase, and largest, already complete.
As preparations for the grand refurbishment began in March 2013, the first phase is complete and has already brought a new and revolutionary edge to the hotel, emanating the brands contemporary aesthetics and hi-tech boutique feel. The public areas, including the hotel’s receptions and lobby area, embrace a clear flow of linear spaces, linked physically or visually to create a natural interaction between the interior of the hotel and the passing volume of people using the airport walkway (linking the terminals). The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, ‘Collage’, has doubled in size with three unique zones, creating the ideal space for social, private or individual dining, as well as boasting front-row seats to the airports runway views. Meanwhile, the bar has become a destination in itself with the ambiance changing throughout the day through an eclectic mix of seating, lighting and music, including live DJ’s in the evening – accompanied, of course, with a specially created and exceptional cocktail menu. Moving up to the ninth floor, the Business Class section of the hotel boasts the ultimate experience for the passing businessmen and women. With the hotels newly conceptualised Business Lounge, transformed from the once Observatory Suite, it has kept its panoramic view of the
airport that any plane enthusiast would die for, yet with the added luxuries of Business Class. This sleek environment is ideal for intimate meetings, business rendezvous and the perfect escape from the contrastingly hectic environment that is the airport. A private reception and dedicated check-in has also become a viable addition to the 9th floor offering exclusive services with the help of the hotel’s exceptional staff.
The 120 Business Class bedrooms and suites have also had a facelift of their own. As with all 360-guest bedrooms, they have been designed to create an uncluttered and calming mood including the latest interactive technology. The room palette features rich, dark-stained ash timber, greys and silver grey wall coverings and fabrics, with a feature highlight colour of rich violet added to elements such as cushions and bed throws offering an all-round luxurious visit for anyone staying. Phase two of the programme covers an additional 120 guest bedrooms and will be completed in early 2014, with the remaining 120 bedrooms covered in phase three in 2015 – when the project will be completed. So far this refurbishment and brainchild of Graven Images has managed to emanate further the hotels luxurious qualities as a sleek and sophisticated destination, reflecting the signature, contemporary style of Radisson Blu, all whilst maintaining the charm and heritage of the flagship hotel.
Radisson Blu Hotel Manchester Airport Chicago Avenue M90 3RA Manchester United Kingdom
0161 490 5000 reservations.manchester@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.co.uk
85 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
HIS NOT HERS The essential male grooming guide
ELEMIS FOAMING SHAVE GEL £21
CLINIQUE EYE GEL £22
LAB SERIES FACE TREATMENT £22
NICKEL FACE SCRUB £16
KIEHL’S HEAVY LIFTING MOISTURIZER £38
This high performance foam moulds itself to the contours of the face for the cleanest, closest shave. Chinese Date, English Oak and Witch Hazel help defend the skin against irritation and razor burn, leaving the skin feeling nourished, softened and refreshed.
86 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Award winning Pro LS All-In-One Face Treatment is ideal for the busy man who demands a skincare product that works just as hard as he does. The superlight, fast-absorbing formula with 4 skin benefits smoothes, moisturises and repairs tired skin, whilst controlling shine – a great treat for your skin.
Kiehl’s ‘Heavy Lifting’ Facial Fuel is specifically designed for men’s thicker and coarser skin. The antiaging cream is designed to moisture, lift and firm while reducing the appearance of fine lines. A great allrounder.
Anti-Fatigue Cooling Eye Gel is an undereye serum that helps reduce puffiness while cooling and refreshing the appearance of tired eyes. The lightweight serum dries quickly for a hydrated look and feel, helping reduce the appearance of dark circles.
This best-selling, high-performance face scrubbing gel eliminates impurities, removes dead skin cells and evens out skin tone. This soap-free formula contains Jojoba Oil crystals to deeply exfoliate and cleanse. Ideal for daily use on all skin types.
LA VIDA BEAUTY
INHIBITIF HAIR-FREE SERUM £29.99
A highly concentrated serum, Inhibitif helps reduce the appearance and density of body hair, minimising the need for hair removal in just eight weeks. An ideal solution for the gentleman amongst us who prefer to keep their torsos (and beyond) hair free.
BIOTHERM HOMME NO-SHINE CLEANSER £16.50
T-Pur No-Shine Cleanser is a purifying, unclogging cleanser ideal for humidity, hot conditions, daily pollution and stress. Biotherm T-Pur helps to protect against skin shine, controls sebum and masters sweat for a no-compromise result that lasts all day long.
TIGI CATWALK HAIRSPRAY £6.29
Session Series Finishing Hairspray by TIGI provides long lasting and moveable hold for contemporary styles. This longlasting, fast-drying hairspray will keep your desired hairstyle in place, whilst protecting your hair from humidity as well as conditioning the hair and adding shine.
WILKINSON SWORD 5 £12.99 BURBERRY BRIT RHYTHM EAU DE TOILETTE £57 for 90ML
Brit Rhythm eau de toilette by Burberry is inspired by the exhilaration and adrenaline of live music and the electric energy of the crowd. With top notes of basil, verbena, spicy cardamom and juniper berries, and a heart of black leather, patchouli and cedar wood, this fragrance is both sexy and provocative.
New innovative Wilkinson Sword 5 Power Select is the only powered razor with 3 vibration settings, giving you the ultimate shave comfort. Adjusting the shave power is proven to reduce skin irritation, achieving great looking skin.
87 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
LA VIDA FEATURE
The Fragrance Kitchen We speak exclusively to the man behind The Fragrance Kitchen, Sheikh Majed Al-Sabah
T
FK, The Fragrance Kitchen, is the latest chapter in the ongoing retail legend that began in 2005 by Sheikh Majed Al-Sabah. Based in Kuwait, this perfume house was borne as a diary of his life and a translation of his childhood and sensory memories. With the skilful combination of Oud, Taif Rose and burning Agarwood along with the tradition of Middle Eastern perfumery with the French expertise of Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, TFK is the culmination of a dream to create the ‘perfect’ or dream perfume for each individual. Fragrances are very important in the Middle East with families closely guarding their secret perfume blends and recipes, passing them down from generation to generation. Sheikh Majed Al-Sabah’s grandmother was no exception, teaching her grandson how to create scents by mixing oils bought at the souk markets. Discovering he had a ‘nose’ and a passion for perfume, he was able to take his skill out of his grandmother’s kitchen and into his own ‘Fragrance Kitchen’.
How did your passion for fragrances begin? It actually stemmed from my love of blending fragrances as a child. I was brought up by my grandmother who happened to have a very special technique in blending fragrances; something mainly known in the Middle East. Everyone here keeps a secret recipe of their special blend just for themselves, similar to those who keep a secret recipe to make wine, or a chef for a special dish. It is something that the people of the Middle East are very proud of; we love developing special scents within the family. So, whilst my grandmother was bringing me up, I started to appreciate how she made and blended her fragrances, and that’s how I fell in love with blending fragrances. So, you would say that your grandmother and your childhood were your biggest influences? Yes certainly. I loved how she did the whole process and so I started becoming a ‘nose’ for her when she was blending the fragrances. I just got 89 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
into it from that moment. During my teenage years I started making my own blends and wearing them myself. I then started my luxury fashion business, travelling around the world, attending fashion shows, meeting lots of people and journalists and then people started asking me “What are you wearing? Is that a certain fragrance?” I always kept a number of sample bottles with me in my pocket and I started to give them out, everybody got into it and started asking me for more. Some retailers from different countries started asking me if I wanted to take it seriously and yield a collection and work it out as a business. I was kind of lazy and didn’t want to do it. We hear you ignited your talent for fragrance blending with Tom Ford, how did this come about? Well in 2004, when Tom Ford decided to leave Gucci, we started taking about the idea of how we could do something together. He wanted to start the business with men’s tailorwear. I told him that this would be difficult to bring to the Middle East as people here don’t have the patience – the whole culture of Savile Row tailoring is not here yet. With the nature and culture of people in the Middle East, most people wearing their national costume, they don’t get to enjoy the aspect of menswear tailoring until they travel abroad.
year when we launched the brand. What makes the TFK brand so unique in comparison to other fragrance brands? With my 20 years of business in fashion, as I still do my business in luxury fashion, I thought that the world doesn’t really need another fragrance brand, and so I wanted to do something a little more special. I decided to adapt my fragrance house to the nature of the fashion business. I asked myself “How come the fragrance industry only has one or two launches every year, whereas if you go to any fashion store, they always have a new collection every 3-4 weeks?” I therefore thought about doing something different, something that other fragrance houses don’t do, and that was to launch a different fragrance every month. I would work around each different fragrance on a monthly basis by changing the look and feel of the store and the look and feel of the brand ambassadors (such as their attire), so the whole concept changes regularly. We wanted to take that as a formula to move on and to really attract the consumer and the people with this kind of direction – and it’s worked!
We decided that if we wanted to do something special for the Middle East, we would start by working on a special fragrance. At the time, Tom had a deal with Estée Lauder to develop his own fragrance and beauty brand, so we did just that. I gave him a number of my samples, of which he liked some of them, and then we decided to nail them down to one that we called Arabian Wood, which then went into production. The Estée Lauder management soon called me and said, “Guess what? Your fragrance ran as one of the top 3 best selling Tom Ford fragrances world wide”.
What’s the process like for developing your fragrances on a large scale? Well I took all my samples and archives to them and they asked me what the ingredients were in each blend. I said, “I have absolutely no idea”. I only keep bottles of the fragrances I have blended in my archives and so I couldn’t remember some of the ingredients in some of the blends. They then had to take all my blends into the lab and begin to analyse each one and legalise each one of them. It wasn’t until then that we actually started the collection with 60 different fragrances last 90 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
How many fragrances do you currently hold? Well right now we’ve reached over 80. We discontinue the ones that are not doing so well, leaving us with our 25-30 bestsellers worldwide. We then use these as the base, introducing and adding new collections and new series every month around them. That’s the strategy right now. What do you feel is the most distinctive aspect in each of your fragrances? My fragrances are very seductive, very different. Everybody is very much attracted to them. I also think it’s the whole concept of the person behind it that has a great affect. I see it a lot in the Western world where everybody is intrigued and interested to know more about me, someone who comes from a royal family and who has an interest in developing fragrances. That’s one of the pictures that people are very interested in with this project. The whole thing now is to expand out of the Middle East. Do you not feel the fragrance market is quite competitive outside The Middle East? Many international brands are adopting this whole oud concept using Amber’s and ingredients that were once unknown in the Western world, but now they are going deeply into them. You can see every brand out there is going into the oud thing, something influenced by the Middle East as they saw that the use of oud worked well. But, someone like myself, as a nose who knows those ingredients, can tell you that 99% of the products out there that have the word ‘oud’ on it, doesn’t even have ‘oud’ in it. Instead, brands use high dosages of amber or musk and call it ‘oud’. And so, for the people who are not the connoisseurs of oud, they will think it’s a joke. They simply use oud as a marketing word and strategy.
Is this what drove you to create your Kuwait fragrance house, The Fragrance Kitchen? Yes, that definitely gave me the confidence and boost to move on and start thinking about doing my own brand. That was the turning point around 20072008. Mind you, I’m a nose but I’m not a chemist, so I don’t get to go into the lab and make all these blends from scratch. I’m someone that goes with my nose and my gut feeling. I haven’t been trained as a professional nose either; I’m just someone that has had it as a hobby for years. How do your fragrances come together? So my nature was, when I was making these blends, to keep them in my archive with every blend that I have created kept in my archive. And so, when I decided to start my business [The Fragrance Kitchen], I said I would take all my archive blends to Grasse in the south of France [centre of the French perfume industry]. I wanted to have someone that was really specialised in making professional fragrances to be in this project. We now have a very interesting familyowned company whom I am partnering with in the south of France who do all my collections.
kept secret. That was out direction. We even follow this principle within our stores in regards to the shop concept and layout. It is very much influenced by the film ‘Noir’ with the dim lighting and the simplicity – what you see on display are always the bottles themselves, showcased like art pieces. You do not see the boxes of the bottles on display like many other brands do. We wanted to keep it very clean, chic and elegant and that is our direction.
Would you say this is the main difference in regards to longevity between fragrances? I can tell you one thing, we spend a lot, a lot of effort in our lab to make sure the longevity of our fragrances stays a minimum of 8-10 hours on people.
Tell us a little more about your brand ambassadors. We wanted to really apply this formula of differentiation to the whole concept of The Fragrance Kitchen brand and so we hired professional male models to become our brand ambassadors. We don’t call them sales assistants; we call them our brand ambassadors. They are the ones who are featured in all our photographing, campaigns, videos and advertising. Mind you, we don’t do any billboards or print advertisement, we always use our website and our social media with an intensive amount of PR through our PR offices worldwide. Why do you prefer to use social media platforms to advertise as opposed to the more ‘traditional’ methods? We want people to talk about the brand as opposed to over-exposing them in a negative way as many other brands do. We wanted to always be that best
Why is this? In the Middle East, especially in our market, you always have to have an aura around you. We are very different to the Europeans in this way. We have to have a radius around us in which people can smell us and the fragrance we are wearing. Europeans, on the other hand, don’t want you to be able to smell them unless you come very close to them. But here in the Middle East, people want to make an entrance. It’s as if you are walking into a room wearing a very glamorous red carpet dress; people want to make an entrance with their scent. It goes for both genders, everybody wants this aura around them, it makes you feel so proud when someone stops and asks you where your fragrance is from because it smells so good. You feel very honoured and proud and so that’s why we spend so long putting our efforts into the longevity. What made you choose to create these unisex fragrances? The reality is that my friends and I are very much cross-gender in the sense that we like to use women’s fragrances on ourselves and some of the ladies like to
LA VIDA FEATURE use men’s fragrances. It’s this sort of cross-gender that we see a lot of now and so we have adapted to this demand. How do you wear your fragrances? Do you stick to one, or do you alternate through the seasons and according to your mood? In summer I love to wear ‘Son Of A Rose’ but during the wintertime I always wear my own experiments. What I mean by this is that because of the cool weather, you get to have much more depth into the smells you are testing and so wintertime is when I start to test the new blends that I have developed. I do change my fragrances in relation to my mood as well; even some of my current blends in my collection have reflected my moods. For example, I created ‘Mr Danger’ when I was in a very bad mood, and it worked. I also went through a challenging time with business and at that time I developed the fragrance ‘At Your Own Risk’ – there’s always emotion in my fragrances, it’s as if the fragrances are a diary of mine. Do you consider fragrance to be an important accessory? Definitely, without a doubt.
Each bottle in your collection holds an individual quote. What influenced you to add this unique touch to your bottles? They’re influenced by the movie ‘Message in a Bottle’. People are always hesitant or shy to deliver a message to someone, so I thought that this could be a great tool if you wanted to deliver a message to a loved one. What made you choose both Manchester and Selfridges to launch your perfume house, The Perfume Kitchen? We decided to do Selfridges in London where we had the opportunity to launch during London fashion week. I believe the Selfridges management were pleased with the performance of the brand alongside the brands look and feel, that they invited us to do this opportunity and pop-up shop in Manchester. Tell us a little about your exclusive fragrance for Selfridges, Ambrosea. We developed this fragrance with the Maharaja of Udaipur. His highness was very kind to give us the opportunity and invite us to Udaipur to be the ones behind developing the scent and creating the name. He is the testimonial person behind it. It’s very interesting to involve a royalty into a scent and we are
very honoured and grateful to him for his hand in developing a fragrance for us. How do you envision TFK in the future? Well I think that we’ll come to a certain point where we’ll cover the rest of the world with an outlet in each major city. I also see myself developing TFK as a lifestyle brand. Everybody asks me “why don’t you do a body line or scented candles?” But I don’t want to follow that path at all because everybody has done that. I want to take TFK to the next level and really create it into a lifestyle brand. My dream is to develop a very interesting boutique hotel influenced by all my scents with every room inspired by an ingredient or by a scent of ours – it’s the whole lifestyle around it and the TFK name. www.tfk.com.kw Follow on twitter @IloveTFK instagram @instatfk facebook/tfk
Pierre Alexandre Getting dolled-up and ready for a night out on the town can be a long and unnecessarily tedious process as most of you ladies know, especially when working a full time job. So, when I was told I could get this whole pampering process of hair, nails and make-up done for me at one of Manchester’s finest hair salons, I jumped for joy.
Pierre Alexandre has long been one of Manchester’s most original and wellknown hair salons since the man himself first opened shop in 1965. And, after pioneering the concept of unisex hairdressing, the prestigious eponymous salon, located in the heart of Manchester’s city centre on King Street West, is catering to our very demanding needs. With a birthday night planned, and the birthday girl in tow, we headed for a well deserved and, to be honest, well-needed pampering session before hitting the busy, cosmopolitan Spinningfields for celebratory food and drinks. Popping in after work wasn’t just a lifesaver and easy option, but a relaxing end to the day and a perfect start to a glitzy, glamorous night out.
Hair First step. Hair. Holly and Stephanie were our lovely stylists for our afternoon of pampering and gave us the options for our hair look for the evening. I chose a simple blow dry, whilst the birthday girl chose a stylish up-do to complement her extravagant birthday ensemble. I will be honest; I have scoured Manchester for not only a good and long-lasting blow dry, but also somewhere that’s affordable. Typically £30 for what I consider to be a simple task, Pierre Alexandre was a godsend - £15 for a blow dry (£20 if I still had my luscious, long extensions)! The birthday girl’s up-do, as a longer and more complex process, was £30 but it was her birthday after all, and damn it looked good! Both the blow dry and up-do served the biggest test of all - the test of time - lasting the duration of our indulgent afternoon and the nights antics. For those busy businesswomen out there, Stephanie informed us that for future reference, we could wash our hair in the morning at home, and pop into Pierre Alexandre on our lunch break for a touch-up blow dry for only £10 – it really doesn’t get any easier than that.
Make-up Make-up was the final and finishing touch to our pampered afternoon, but by no means any less exceptional. Make-up artist to the stars, Caroline Shuttleworth, was on hand at Pierre Alexandre to use her talented experience and work her magic. Sat in the comfy, reclining chairs with our hair freshly blow and pinned, nails drying and makeup in process, we felt like A-list celebrities getting ready for the red carpet - or maybe we were? Caroline gave us ‘The Effect’. Choosing a celebrity look, Caroline applied my desired ‘Megan Fox’ look and my friend’s ‘Cara Delevingne’ adaptation. Our celebrity-inspired makeover, with the whole works including lashes, was a remarkable £30 and lasting 45 minutes, it was a relaxed, friendly and thoroughly enjoyable experience. Not to mention we looked fabulous by the end of it - watch out Brian Austin Green, I’m coming for you!
Nails Whilst my friends up-do was being perfected, I moved to nails. As a first time bio-gel user at Pierre Alexandre, the full set was £27, which, with my impatient lifestyle, was perfect! The gel at ‘Bio Nails by Rosie’ lasts at least 3 weeks and looks fabulous – not to mention it’s usually double the price elsewhere. Rosie was my nail artist for the evening as she recommended a simple, on-trend, deep red colour that works well for both daytime and night-time. My friend chose a simple ‘shape and paint’ as Rosie calls it for, hold your breath, £5 – you really couldn’t ask for more. Who needs to bother with painting their nails themselves, I’d come here everyday for a ‘shape and paint’ if I could – or at least before a night out. So, with hair and nails done, it was time to move onto our flustered faces.
Pierre Alexandre | 38 King Street West, M3 2WZ, Manchester | 0161 834 5837 appointments@pierrealexandrehair.com | www.pierrealexandrehair.com
WINTER HAS ARRIVED! THIS WINTER, Stella McCartney
WHETHER YOU’RE
frolicking ON THE SLOPES OR
braving
THE
ENGLISH WEATHER,
winter
BRINGS US
BOLD BROWS
With this seasons bold brows, one name comes to mind, Cara Delevingne. Pencil-thin arches should remain firmly in the early 2000s, as it looks as though big, dark brows are here to stay. Bushy, untamed brows were spotted at Haider Ackerman and Isabel Marant. At Stella McCartney and Chanel they were neat and bold, while Victoria Beckham went all out with bold, darkened brows. If you’re blonde, take your brows a shade darker. Whether you wear yours bushy or groomed is completely up to you, but if you prefer the latter, keep your brows in check with brow gel and a comb.
BOLD BROWS,
stained
LIPS,
FELINE FLICKS &
slick
HAIR
- LA VIDA SHOWS YOU HOW TO LOOK FABULOUS ... Written by Emily Mulenga 94 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Rochas
AND Victoria Beckham
foxy
Laura Mercier, Long Wear Brow Definer, £16.50 (1) - Selfidges Benefit Speed Brow, quick-set brow gel, £13 (2) E.L.F. Studio Eyebrow Kit, £3.75 (3)
LA VIDA BEAUTY
These provocative plum hues are perfect for the stained-lip look. With a selection of hues including Hang Up in Cremesheen, and Cyber, Amorous, Verve, Captive and Twig, all in Satin from MAC, you can alternate the intensity of your wine-stained look.
Christian Dior
Vera Wang
MAC Pro Lip Palette, 6 select plums, £35 (4)
STAINED
LIPS
If you’re embracing the thought of winter, and you don’t mind the winestained lip look, this trend is just for you. Colour should diffuse from the inside outwards, with a matte powdered finish to keep it even more ontrend. Variations of the look were seen at Lanvin, who opted for a softer, velvet matte texture; Christian Dior tried a more rosé blush version of this look whilst Vera Wang went big and bold with a glossy finish.
HOW TO ACHIEVE STAINED LIPS: Seen all over the AW13 catwalks, this wine-stained look will complement your festive mood perfectly. Create this on-trend stained-lip look by following these simple steps:
1. Prime lips with a light-base lip primer 2. Apply wine coloured hue of choice – keep the lines soft and smudgy 3. Blot away the excess shine for the Lanvin lip-stained look 4. Alternatively, apply a layer of gloss over your berry lips for a highshine, Vera Wang-esque look Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color in Crimson, £19 (5) Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour in 116 Envoûtante, £25 (6)
Lanvin
Lancôme L’Absolu lipstick in Caprice, £22 (7) Too Faced Lip Insurance, £14.50 (8) Boots
WINGING IT
Christian Dior
Our favourite feline flick is back. The Brigitte Bardot effect was seen all over fashion week; and while the trend follows on from the sixties look for S/S, the A/W version is a lot more futuristic. At Dior, winged liner was silver rather than the staple black, and was paired with the wine-stained lip. Black dots dabbed on the lower lash line made for a startling and super cool look at Anna Sui, whilst cat-eye liner was kept colourful at shows like Monique Lhullier, Michael Kors, and Jason Wu.
Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner, £10 (1) Bobbi Brown LongWear Gel Eyeliner, £17.50 (2)
HOW TO ACHIEVE THE FELINE FLICK: Whether you’re after a darker and more dramatic look, or something subtler, this feline flick is great fun and super easy to achieve:
Anna Sui
1. Base the lid with primer 2. Choose your choice of flick – thin, thick, black or coloured 3. Pull the eyelid back tightly to ensure a neat line 4. Draw on your preferred feline flick
Lancôme Hypnôse Ultra Dazzling Eye Shadow no.211, £21(3) lancome.co.uk Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Intense Eyeshadow, 01, £23.40 (4) - John Lewis
Monique L’huillier
96 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Jason Wu
BareMinerals High Shine Eyecolour, in Electric, £12 (5)
Giambattista Valli
LA VIDA BEAUTY
Wave goodbye to those harsh partings and welcome A/W13’s slick-backed do. The runways were graced with pulled-back, glossy manes to create this streamlined look. At Alexander Wang and Donna Karan, hair was pulled tightly back into smooth, sleek ponytails whilst Christian Dior chose a wet-look approach to this slicked-back look. Without a single hair out of place, this season’s hair trend boasts an ultra-modern finish with Gucci channelling a straighter pulled-back look while Missoni and Balmain gave the models a casual, matt adaptation. This look is not only ultra-modern but can be worn both casual and smart to make you a true slick-siren.
Alexander Wang
SLICK SIREN
TOP TIPS TO LOOK LIKE A SLICK SIREN:
Balmain
There are a number of different methods you can follow in order to create your desired Slick Siren hairstyle. For a deliberately dishevelled Balmain inspired look, spray hair with sea salt spray and then slick back and set with a wax product. This look is all about roughness and texture so don’t worry about creating the perfect quiff.
Rag & Bone
To create a smoother look, á la Giambattista Valli, mix gel with shine oil in equal parts then layer onto hair, combing through and back, securing the top part of the hair with grips, a hair tie or extra gel to hold in place ‘naturally’. For the slick ponytail as seen at Alexander Wang, straighten the hair first then saturate with Argan Oil all the way through to get that sleek shine. Pull the hair back tightly using a fine-toothed comb, tying the hair together at the nape of the neck. Spray the top of the hair with extra strong holding spray to prevent those little wisps of hair from getting free. 97 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
I NTR ODUCING L IV ERP OOL’S AUTHE N TIC L EBAN ES E STR EE T FOO D
Photography by Mike Brits
98 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
LA VIDA LIFESTYLE
Bakchich
L
ebanon – the strikingly rugged land situated on the Eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, where its food has fast become one of the most popular Middle Eastern cuisines.
Fortunately, you don’t have to travel overseas to enjoy the exotic food and unique culture as Liverpool now brings you Bakchich, a true Lebanese experience where you are guaranteed to feel transported to the beauty of this land with its simple, clean and fresh ‘street food’ to share. In Lebanon, food is a culture and a passion, bringing family and friends together to appreciate the beauty of freshly prepared cuisine to share and Bakchich does it exactly right. With the vision to introduce the finest Lebanese street food with a slightly French twist, at Bakchich you can find healthy fresh and traditional dishes, like that celebrated in Beirut.
Options include staples and small dishes such as falafel, halloumi cheese, stuffed vine leaves and baklawa, not to mention the divine mezze platas, served with pickles and homemade bread; perfect for sharing. The small plates and mezze concept has become a somewhat trend here in the UK, but it is, and has always been, a big part and tradition in the Lebanese culture. With a focus on dining with friends and family, enjoying the informal and fun experience, the sharing concept comes to play in the Lebanese culture and one that will flourish here thanks to Bakchich. The variety of hot and cold beverages to healthy non-alcoholic fruit cocktails and fresh juices makes it suitable for all the family. And, if you are spoilt for choice, the friendly and attentive staff are happy to guide you to picking the best dishes for your taste buds.
This little piece of Lebanon brings people and cultures together, from families and businessmen to travellers and locals. This upbeat café-style restaurant is cleverly designed with large zinc tables and booths lined with bar stools creating an even more authentic, canteen-like experience yet with a slight modern edge. Value for money is also extremely significant with the restaurants name itself suggesting its affordable prices. The Arabic, ‘Bakchich’, translates to ‘loose change’ and reflects the culture of grabbing a bite to eat on your way home, a quick snack for lunch or some ingredients to cook a Lebanese feast with at home. This restaurant definitely isn’t one to be missed. So, when you find yourself in the heart of Liverpool’s Ropewalks and fancy a quick, simple and fresh bite to eat on your own or with a group of friends, be sure to lose yourself in the Lebanese experience and visit Bakchich – the essence of good food.
Bakchich Lebanese Restaurant 54 Bold Street Liverpool, L1 4HR 0151 707 1255 info@bakchich.co.uk www.bakchich.co.uk
99 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
the
Belvedere CluB £70 bottle & mixers Friday 8pm – 10pm saturday 6pm – 10pm
Your pre-drink dream Come true...
Escape to Italy with Il Forno in 2014. WIN a holiday for two to Italy, where you will be invited to experience some of the most exciting and successful vineyards in the world and taste handmade, authentic produce from Il Forno’s highly coveted suppliers. Dine at Il Forno in January to be in with a chance of winning! Visit www.ilforno.co.uk for more information
132 Duke Street, East Village, Liverpool, L1 5AG | 0151 709 4002 info@ilforno.co.uk | www.ilforno.co.uk M@ilfornouk C/ilfornoliverpool
BRAND NEW
tastes With Sapporo Teppanyaki known for its exquisite Japanese dishes, La Vida takes a look at the resturants signature Teppanyaki and how it differs from sushi.
Most people instantly associate Japanese food with sushi, myself included, but that was until I took the time to visit the renowned Liverpool and Manchester based restaurant chain, Sapporo Teppanyaki. Cooked before your very eyes by their talented chefs, who are as skilful with a samurai worthy knife as you are with your smartphone; in a process as entertaining as the latest James Bond film, we are presented with sushi’s lesser known brother, Teppanyaki. Located in the heart of Liverpool in East Village since November 2003 and opening later in 2005 on Manchester’s Liverpool Road, Sapporo Teppanyaki offers you the chance to experience this glorious and delicious Japanese cuisine, introducing Northerners to the magical art of Teppanyaki. Teppanyaki dates backs to the 1940’s, when a Japanese restaurant chain introduced the concept of cooking Japanese with a Western twist. The Japanese weren’t particularly fond of this new style of cuisine, but the ‘foreigners’ living in Japan quickly fell in love with it. The huge success it had in Japan inspired the opening of Teppanyaki restaurants in the US in the 1960’s. The outcome was similar to that of Japan, and this new style of Japanese cuisine spread like wildfire all over the world, with Sapporo Teppanyaki being the first of its kind in the UK. As raw fish was a little out of some peoples comfort zones, the art of Teppanyaki allowed those less accustomed to indulge in Japanese flavours in a more familiar way. This style of Japanese cuisine is substantially different from sushi, the most well known staple of Japanese culture. The main difference is that, unlike sushi, Teppanyaki food is cooked and not served raw. Revolving around the restaurant’s main focal point and element of the Teppanyaki preparation is the teppan - the iron hotplate on which the food is cooked. Teppan, together with Yaki, which means pan-fried, forms the Japanese word
Teppanyaki, concisely summing up the revolutionary concept – grilled food on a large iron hotplate. The main ingredients are beef, chicken, fish and vegetables, as well as a wide choice of seasoning from teriyaki, BBQ, chilli and garlic, to options of mild and spicy garnishes. Teppanyaki does not just offer amazing food; there is an entertainment side to it, making it even more exciting. Whilst preparing the food, chefs do all kinds of tricks and you suddenly feel transported to a Cirque du Soleil show. They spin, flip and catch what will soon be on your plate, dazzling all diners with their impressive culinary tricks. As the highlight of your meal, and pièce de résistance, the chef sets alight the large hotplate in a spectacular, and of course controlled, display of flames - who knows what else your chef will have in store for you? In Sapporo, you will experience this live cooking show on a horseshoe-shaped table surrounding the chef and the teppan, where he will cook your delicious meal and entertain you while doing so. There are a number of seats around each grill; with space for up to 20 people. So depending on the size of your party, you may be graced with the company of other diners. This unique seating attribute only adds to the social component of the Teppanyaki experience, as you can meet other people at the restaurant and magically extend your party and, who knows, your friendship circle too! Watching the show and having fun with your fellow diners not only makes your dining experience more lively, it creates a great atmosphere to spark conversations, meet new people or simply enjoy a great time with your friends and family. The benefits of Japanese food are recognised worldwide, with Japan being amongst the countries with the highest life expectancy in the world. Healthy fats, antioxidants and protein are just a few of the best nutritional features. All these health benefits are abundant in the Teppanyaki style of Japanese cuisine; delivered with great taste and fantastic presentation. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients, free from preservatives and other nasty addi-
tives, are cooked in front of you, giving you complete control over the seasoning and the cooking of your meal. Sapporo’s fish, meat, poultry and vegetables are sourced exclusively from local, North West suppliers, making it even more eco and health-friendly; ensuring ingredients are the freshest possible. The hotplate cooks this ethically sourced produce at 400ºC, sealing in all natural flavours and nutritional goodness. Conscious eaters don’t need to worry about hidden calories such as butter to season what would otherwise be a healthy steak, as nothing is ‘hidden’ in the Teppanyaki method – it’s all out in the open for you to see and control. Sapporo offers its visitors six different Teppanyaki options, all packed with starters, desserts and a variety of flavours - enabling you to savour the unique Japanese experience. With tongue twisters like Shojin Ryori and Shogun, the menu’s names are all inspired by the Japanese language and culture, further enhancing the experience of dining at Sapporo Teppanyaki. Grilled vegetables, Namasu salad and Miso soup are only a few of the many healthy options the top restaurant offers to start your meal – BBQ spare ribs are also at hand if you’re feeling naughty! The meal continues with the main attraction, ranging from chicken and beef to fish and all kinds of seafood, all flamboyantly prepared in front of you. The dessert repertoire also caters for every taste: Japanese Yuzu Fruit Cheesecake, Chocolate Spring Rolls or a healthy seasonal fruit salad are just a few of the options available to finish your meal in blissful content. The Teppanyaki cuisine opens doors to a whole new world of exotic yet slightly familiar food. It’s not just a meal; it’s a full experience. Complementing exquisite taste
with exciting entertainment and a lively atmosphere, Sapporo Teppanyaki has all the ingredients to provide an amazing time, Japanese style.
Sapporo Teppanyaki Liverpool, 134 Duke Street, East Village Liverpool L1 5AG 0151 668 0010 Sapporo Teppanyaki Manchester 91-93 Liverpool Road, Manchester M3 4JN 0161 979 0574
Given the opportunity to sample some of the best menus in and around the North West, whilst meeting some real characters along the way, is certainly one of the lovely perks of the job. And so, when I heard the Radisson Blu Manchester Airport Hotel was currently undergoing a £10million refurbishment, with its Collage restaurant stunningly transformed and open for business, I jumped at the chance to go take a peek, or taste in this case, for myself. M
M
aking our way to the stylish hotel by train, of course, we walked across the covered walkway to the blue-lit Radisson Blu Hotel. Greeted kindly by the reception staff that showed us to our destination for the evening, we were welcomed by the restaurants maître de, smiles and all. Although our table was ready and waiting, we ventured to the hotel’s funky new bar, Little m, for one of their Mancunian themed cocktails. Industrial Revolution was my choice of poison, as the saying goes, but poison it was not; infusing gin with a blend of Earl Grey tea, lemon juice and sugar syrup, a surprising Martini delight was made. My dining partner chose another fun cocktail named after the well-known Manchester rock band the ‘Happy Mondays’ comprising of Vodka, midori, fresh lime, watermelon and basil leaves – equally fun, and equally tasty. Stomachs starting to rumble, we moved to our table; a comfy couched booth situated in the right wing of the restaurant. With front row seats to the contrastingly hectic runway, we were in the idyllic location; feeling as though we were about to take a trip around the world, yet in the comfort of an atmospheric restaurant. With our cocktails almost done, we ordered a lovely bottle of New Zealand white wine as recommended by our waitress – I’m a self confessed wine lover, but not a wine connoisseur, yet the recommendation was perfect. Our only problem now was the menu.
104 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
The menu features an eclectic selection of dishes from around the world from unique combinations to classic favourites. I’m sure you can understand the difficulty we may have had deciding, so much so, we did the unimaginable, we called a friend. Yes, I hope you are laughing, I certainly was. As an indecisive pair, my dining partner and I went through all the ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’ stages: called a friend, asked the audience and did a little fifty-fifty – pathetic, I know. But, we finally decided on our meals – I stress the plural use of meal. For starters we had, please adopt the brace position, the all-time favourite, ham and pineapple pizza accompanied with the exotic grilled halloumi and pear salad. This isn’t the most familiarised starter choice, but we’re on holiday right (kind of)? The pizza was superb, just the right amount of pizzatomato ratio (if you love pizza you’ll understand the importance), the ham was crispy and the pineapple fresh. The salad, although crack wheat based, was surprisingly light enough to leave us room for our mains. Although, after letting the food settle between courses, we started to feel the wrath of our greedy eyes, we plodded along and devoured our seafood mains. Seafood linguini for my dining partner with cackles, muscles, prawns, garlic, herbs and chilli, all cleaned and ready to eat. And for me, well, I chose something new, something I wasn’t used to eating outside of the Mediterranean. I chose the char-grilled
half lobster with garlic and tarragon butter, accompanied with fries. The lobster was, and I will be honest, surprisingly exquisite. I have always been a little food-snob when it comes to seafood, unless I’m sat on the shore itself, but easy to eat and extremely succulent, this lobster exceeded my preconceived expectations. And so, we ate, sat back, relaxed and enjoyed the music, ambience and extremely attentive staff (as they topped up our wine glasses), until we felt ready to tackle the dessert menu. Yes, that’s right, dessert. After all, it would be rude not to try a little bit of everything from the newly opened restaurant. As much as I wished I had the stomach for the local artisan selection cheese board, I went for my second favourite – the warm chocolate brownie with chocolate chip ice cream. My partner was starting to reach maximum capacity, so chose a lighter dessert; the selection of sorbet and ice-cream. This delicious dessert menu, accompanied with another bottle of wine from their extensive wine list (thankfully the use of public transport was extremely convenient), helped round off an unforgettable dining experience. Radisson Blu Hotel Manchester Airport Chicago Avenue M90 3RA Manchester 0161 490 5000 reservations.manchester@radissonblu.com
Half Price cocktails tHursday 8pm - 11pm friday 8pm - 11pm saturday 6pm - 11pm
N
I S M U F O which my mother, a sangoma, taught me. I can’t come here and call myself a traditional singer though; I would be lying to myself if I didn’t say that I have other influences. I’m now finding a way of fusing those two worlds.
Interview & photography by Mike Brits
B
orn in the township of KwaZhakele in the Eastern Cape, raised solely by her sangoma mother, Nomfusi led a not-so-ordinary life, developing her love and talent of music from accompanying her mother to weekly sangoma rituals. Since launching her singing career in 2009, she is a two-time SAMA nominee, Metro FM Award nominee as well as holding numerous local and international tours under her belt. After the global success of her first album “Take Me Home”, the pop-soul singer has continued her journey, starring in the long-awaited film adaptation of Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom, portraying the character of Miriam Makeba due for release in 2014. And so, La Vida caught up with the acclaimed ‘woman of the world’, to discuss her touching life story, her dazzling film role and everything in between.
‘I really want to be a part of building the education system back home’ 106 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Welcome to Liverpool Nomfusi! Thank you very much. People all over the world are being treated to your music, but I don’t think people realise the diversity of the music back in South Africa. How do you feel about bands from South Africa going overseas? You know what, there aren’t many young artists travelling today yet there are quite a few of the older jazz musicians, like Hugh Masekela, that are still travelling a lot. It’s true what you say though, people over here don’t understand the diversity of the music in South Africa. I feel like I am part of the generation that is trapped between traditional and Western music. After South Africa was liberated, we were very much exposed to American music. I grew up listening to Aretha Franklin and all that as it became popular in South Africa. But still, I have my traditional music,
You say your mother was a Sangoma, what would be an accurate way to describe a Sangoma? A sangoma is a healer and more of a fortune-teller. She had a gift of seeing the future and could tell what you were up to and even warn you about paths you should or should not follow. She was a very unique lady, but I was very scared of her [laughs]! I wouldn’t do anything naughty when I was playing because I was afraid she was going to foresee them! You lived in Site B, Khayelitsha in South Africa which must have been quite tough growing up. Can you give me an idea of what it was like living in an encampment? Well [laughs], that’s first time I’ve been asked that! Basically it’s an informal settlement, with lots of shacks that are very close to each other. In our area we had one tap that everyone had access to, so you’d take your bucket and go get water for your living. It was horrible. There were lots of rats. Even today I’m still frightened! I can’t deal with rats! One of your goals is to raise awareness in these areas; to help children break out of the poverty mind-set. Can you tell us a little more about how you go about doing this? I am a young artist, so I am hoping to use my gifts to bring awareness. I really want to be a part of building the education system back home, so I will go to schools and, because I sing and they see me on TV, that gives me the power to positively influence them. I don’t consider myself a celebrity, but a lot of ‘celebrities’ out there disappear, you can’t see
LA VIDA FEATURE
‘I’m trying to be that person who kids see and learn from’ them; they go so far that you can’t touch them, you know? So I’m trying to be that person that the kids see and learn from – not from TV, but from me going to them and telling them “This is where I’m from, this is where I’m at and these are my dreams”. And you can achieve them if you do A, B, C and D but the only real recipe for achieving those goals is to hard work. There is no escaping it unfortunately. So I’m doing that! Here in Liverpool I visited the Paul McCartney School (LIPA) and that gave me some very good ideas of what an art institution is. There is such a gap back home and so much needed. I’m thinking that if we could do something like that back home, it would really be great. You’ve been cast as Miriam Makeba in the upcoming Nelson Mandela film adaptation ‘Long Walk to Freedom’. How does it feel to be asked to play ‘Mama Afrika’? Oh my word, I don’t know! It was amazing man! I know the movie is not about Miriam Makeba, it’s about Nelson Mandela, but you know, being a young Miriam for a few seconds was just amazing. It was almost a bar like this one [points around Studio 2] and they transformed it into a bar from the 1940-1950s – even the atmosphere changed! It felt as if I went back in time. It was such a high-quality production and there were so many people; I’ve never seen so many people on a set, dancing along to the music of Miriam Makeba, and I am Miriam Makeba! And then suddenly, in came Nelson Mandela, walking in! It was mind blowing. And at the same time I have to act this
out. I was being transported to a place where I never existed and my brain was playing tricks on me!
We can’t wait to see the film in 2014! Take Me Home is the name of your most recent album and it has been receiving some great attention around South Africa. Where can people here in the UK get a hold of your music? Don’t worry about that! We are working on it and you will get access to it soon. Are you releasing something new here? What are your plans? As it stands, I’m finding it difficult to come here and sing my old traditional songs. So we are in the process of doing an international album. I’m working with Simon Britton and we’re busy writing the songs here. The music is soulful, very soulful, which is from listening to my early Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston influences. You will also hear clicks, which comes from my native language, Xhosa, combined with very energetic guitar pieces, which are found in classic African styles. This will all be fused together along with me singing English, which will hopefully appeal to a larger audience. How did you initially get into the music scene? I managed to pass my Matric and so the government helped fund my studies. During my first year, it was really difficult to live as the money only covered the student residence and school fees, so I still needed money to eat. I got myself a job at this restaurant, Stardust, but my English was very poor at the time, having come from the eastern cape, and I had to serve tables! The food was Moroccan or Mediterranean or something, so there was Hummus and Tzatziki and all these sorts of things that I couldn’t even pronounce – It was a mess, and I honestly thought there was no way I’d be able to get the job! I was very skinny at that time, and the manager was worried I couldn’t carry
the plates, so it didn’t make sense for him businesswise to hire me. Then he asked me if I could sing, and I was like “Yes!” - this was my only chance now! He asked me what song I can sing but because I grew up in church, I didn’t know worldly music except Whitney Houston. So I decided to sing I Will Always Love You and when I was done, he smiled and said “Can you work tonight?” Me singing got me the job, and it kept me because I made so many mistakes! People heard me sing in that bar, and it wasn’t long before I was performing full time! Well we certainly look forward to seeing what else you have in store for us. For now, thank you for your time Nomfusi! No, thank you! I think next year is going to be an excellent year for Nomfusi and I look forward to you all hearing the new album!
With special thanks to Rare Studio Liverpool, a non-profit organisation giving those passionate about dance the best possible start in the performing arts industry with safe, professionallevel training no matter your background or experience. To help support Rare Studios please visit www.rarestudioliverpool.co.uk
107 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
LA VIDA FEATURE
SHAYNE WARD
“
elcome to W my World
”
Interviewed by Jsky Image courtesy of Outside Org
W
inning The X-Factor back in 2005 catapulted Shayne Ward into the mainstream psyche, making him a household name. Selling over 3 million records worldwide with a record breaking debut single that amassed 313,000 copies on it’s first day of sales, it came as shock in 2011 when it was announced that he was dropped from his record label SYCO. 2012 saw Shayne return to our TV screens on Dancing On Ice, and subsequently starring in the West End hit Rock Of Ages. Shayne Ward returns to Manchester to perform a selection of his pop classics, and talks exclusively to La Vida Magazine about moving back to the north and working on a new album. How did it feel to be back in Manchester and perform at Manchester Pride? I really enjoyed it! It’s good to be back in Manchester and performing on stage again. It’s a pretty good feeling. The crowd was well up for it. Do you have anything new coming out? We all know and love your classic tracks, but we’re dying for something new to come out from you. Welcome to my world. I’ve been writing brand new material. I’ve not long got back from France and I’ve been writing a brand new album. It feels great. You can only sing so much of your old songs before the fans really want that new material. So that’s exactly what I’m doing. Performing at Manchester Pride was a nice way to get myself back out there because I’ve been stuck in the studio all the time.
Where are you residing at the moment? At the moment I’ve left London. I was living in London for about 5 to 6 years. I’ve just moved out to the countryside now. I’ve built my own house so I’m up there, about 40 minutes from my mum’s house in Manchester. If anyone says anything nasty she’s got her heels in her hands ready [laughs]! Joking aside, it’s good. It’s nice to be back in Manchester. I didn’t know how I would be received on the stage as I’ve not done a gig in Manchester for a while now. The last thing I did was Dancing On Ice after I came out of Rock Of Ages, so to do a gig here and get such a good reception keeps that hunger going for me. Have you been watching The X-Factor since you left? It was a long time ago since you won. What do you make of the other contestants? 2005 was when I won – I feel like I’m dead old when I say it – but 2005 was a long time ago and the performers that have come from the show since have been fantastic. Artists like Leona, and the success of One Direction. I’ve met the boys a few times now, and my old tour manager Paul Higgins looks after them at the minute. I spoke to him yesterday and it’s just crazy. I think it just shows the power of The X-Factor and the Internet. A lot of people put the show down back in the day and they really shouldn’t have underestimated exactly what could happen. Everything’s changed. From 2005 to now, it’s on such a bigger, broader scale. Back in my day it literally was just a small stage, 3 judges and it was just about getting on there and singing your song; now it’s global.
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twenty8twelve.com
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U
rachelgalley.com
unisa.co.uk
River Island
Unreal Fur
riverisland.com
unrealfun.com.au
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Urban Outfitters
Rachel Galley
Unisa
Sandro
urbanoutfitters.co.uk
mango.com
sandro-paris.com
Matches Fashion
Selfridges
matchesfashion.com
selfridges.com
viviennewestwood.co.uk
Matthew Campbell
Sinequance
Laurenza
sinequance.com/en
W
johnlewis.com
mcldesign.net
Julia Burness
Miss Francesca Couture
V
Vivienne Westwood
Warehouse warehouse.co.uk
Sorapol
juliaburnessjewellery.com
missfrancescecouture.co.uk
Julia Clancey
Miss Selfridge
sorapol.co.uk
missselfridge.com
K
Missguided missguided.co.uk
Whistles whistles.co.uk
Sve
juliaclancey.com
Karen Millen
topman.com
marksandspencer.com
jbrandjeans.com
jcrew.com
Topman
lancome.co.uk
Inhibitif
J Brand
tigiprofessional.com
Oasis oasis-stores.com
Laird & Co Hatters
M
J
TIGI
lkbennett.com
labseries.co.uk
thekooples.co.uk
net-a-porter.com Next
littlewoods.com
inhibitif.com
Net-a-Porter
L.K. Bennett
illustratedpeople.com
karenmillen.com
110 LA VIDA WINTER 2013
Konplott
svefashion.com
T
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Zara zara.com/UK
Ted Baker tedbaker.com
ZDDZ London zddz.co.uk
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Cartime
Luxury Dealership Quality Used Cars Buy - Sell - Finance
Cartime is one of the UK’s newest, most exciting and fastest growing independent car supermarkets. Rapidly building ‘a new way to buy quality used cars’ with main dealer facilities at independent prices, producing a sought after buying experience backed up with 100% customer satisfaction both before, during and after purchase. With helpful advice readily available, you can find your perfect car from our 200 vehicles with a vast selection of makes, models, specifications and prices. All our high quality standard cars come with a full MOT, RAC 62 point check and written warranty. As specialists in quality used cars, Cartime offers a range of prestige, sports, family and 4X4 vehicles. We cater to you and your needs, tailoring finance packages to your personal requirements. You can be assured of gaining the most cost effective finance package for your next used car.
0161 764 3290 - sales@cartime.co.uk
www.cartime.co.uk