Aesthetic The definitive accompaniment to graduate lifestyle. June 2012 £2.75
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
Guide to moving into your new apartment
The City Girl Edition
Life as a fashion journalist
City girl style Snow White beauty tutorial
Louis Vuitton SS12
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hello June 2012
A note from the editors...
Welcome to the City Girl edition of Aesthetic, filled with fashion and ambition. Pour yourself a glass of rosé and relax with some City-style (page 14), career guidance from an ex-web editor from Harper’s Bazaar (page 8), and the latest on our designer wishlist (page 12). Plus we spend a day playing catch up with Anna Gardner, a beauty PR and Editorial assistant(page 10). Finally, we throw a NYC dinner party by night (page 46).
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We’re thrilled by the positive response we’ve had so far over Twitter, and can’t wait to hear what you all think of our first print issue. Don’t forget to stop by and say hello to us at hello@aesthetic.co.uk too! For now, turn your television off, sit back, unwind and enjoy...
Michelle and Lauren
Contents: Aesthetic June
hello
four six eight ten twelve fourteen twenty-three twenty-four thirty-two thirty-seven thirty-eight thirty-nine forty forty-four forty-six fif ifty-two
A Note from the Editors To Do in June Alex Shakespeare A Day in the Life Of... On Our Wishlist “Hello London!” Shop Shop! “Balletic Romance” Runway Edit: Louis Vuitton The Beauty Review How To: Polka Dot Pretty How To: Fairest of Them All An Afternoon with Jenny Wolf Making a House a Home New York City Dinner Party Talent Spotlight: Ruby Rae Love by Ella Masters fifif ifty-f ive A Small Girl in a Big City... fif ifty-seven Job Listings f ifty-eight End Note
ON THE COVER: Illustration Philippa Vernals (www.cocoskies.com) Garments Mulberry Spring Summer 2012 Mixam Print Publishing Unit 43, Wenta Business Centre, Colne Way, Watford, WD24 7ND Email: hello@aesthetic.co.uk Website: www.aesthetic.co.uk
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culture Most British trends begin when the movers and shakers of the City hone in on hidden hotspots. Michelle Chai takes us on a whistle-stop tour of our Olympic city.
To Do in June
Drink: Purl Acclaimed for their bespoke Silver Fizz cocktail, a variant on the famous Ramos gin fizz, is just one of the reasons that Purl is worth a visit this summer. From the unique cocktail creations that the bar is known for, to the New York inspired, speakeasy-esque atmosphere, Purl is described by regulars as “endearingly eclectic” and is tucked away in Central, in the basement of a Georgian house. 50 BLANDFORD STREET, CENTRAL. GET THERE VIA BOND STREET TUBE STATION. OPEN: 5-11:30PM MON-THURS; 5PM-MIDNIGHT FRI-SAT.
Eat: Koya Low-cost with great taste (word has it that their noodles are made with imported Japanese flour and speciality, softened water!), Koya is a contemporary Asian eatery located in the heart of trendy Soho. Start with a miso soup and move on to curry and prawn tempura for starters, before indulging in a big bowl of noodles. Served in a hot broth, cold with pouring sauce or cold with a separate bowl of broth, the possibilities are endless. 49 FRITH STREET, CENTRAL. GET THERE VIA TOTTENHAM COURT ROAD TUBE STATION. OPEN: NOON-3PM; 5:30-10:30PM MON-SAT.
See: Christian Louboutin Louboutin is infamously inspired by the Moulin Rouge, showgirls and cabaret, his early experiences in Paris and fantasy and the fairytale. Explore the design process and trace the origins of fashion’s most famous red soled shoe at the Christian Louboutin exhibition at the Design Museum. The exhibition promises to fulfil every shoe lover’s wishes with twenty years of designs and inspiration. DESIGN MUSEUM, SHAD THAMES, LONDON, SE1 2YD. OPEN: 10.00 -17.45 DAILY. LAST ADMISSION: 17.15.
Photographs Design Museum, Purl London, Koya Restaurants.
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Life as a Fashion Journalist We all dream of success in the career we love, but often this fantasy can seem unattainable. However, experienced editor Alexandra Shakespeare shows us that all dreams can come true, with a coffee, optimism and ambition, anything can be achieved. She lives a more toned down lifestyle now, but one she equally loves.
8 Words Lauren Austin Photographs Provided by Alexandra Shakespeare
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rabbing five minutes from the busy life of Alex proved to be both difficult and sensational. Sat in the lecture hall at Southampton Solent University, Harper’s Bazaar’s ex-web editor conducts a fashion freelance presentation, overwhelming students with the challenging, yet equally exhilarating, world of self-employed journalism. “I’ve met some very inspiring people during my career, including a few celebs.” Beaming with memories she recalls unforgettable experiences from interviewing Tommy Hilfiger, to hanging out with the cast of Lost, to chilling out in a five-star Dublin suite, bathing in an outdoor plunge pool for typical review inspiration.
laptop case that holds the key journalist’s tool - a MacBook - Alex spills her passion for writing and creativity: “I allow myself to dream. I imagine talking to that designer, what beautiful outfit I’d wear and which extraordinary place I’d be sat…” Ambition and hunger for achievement in Alex’s opinion proves to get you where you want to be: “Knock on every single door! At the end of the day, editors are just real people… never give up.”
“I couldn’t tell you the amount of stars I’ve met.”
“I’ve travelled all over, from Africa to the Maldives, to India, but I’ve got to say one of the best experiences I’ve had was launching VIVA magazine in the Middle East.” Launched in 2004 with several other international journalists, VIVA has become a top -selling women’s glossy for intelligent women, reflecting all aspects of a woman’s life. Clutching the McQueen
Alex chats passionately about her career-driven life, getting lost in the moment recalling lost memories. A stylish woman with a new family on her mind, lecturing and sharing professional experience with future freelance journalists provides her with an unfamiliar, toned down lifestyle. Distinctly remembering the early stages of freelancing, Alex reminisces upon late nights and hoards of coffee. “It is not a 9am-5pm industry- if you want that become a secretary!” Checking her watch, she nervously smiles; evident that a busy
careers
schedule awaits. “If you know this lifestyle is for you, there will always be a way to do it! You will find the drive and desire and will never give up.” Spoken with genuine enthusiasm, the road to success clearly has its hurdles. Alex grins with passion and accomplishment. But are you really born with such drive and motivation? “I didn’t know my father until I was 28, which encouraged me to try harder to prove myself. Not everyone has the same determination and ambition, but we all have dreams and aspirations, and that can be a great motivator. As a magazine journalist, I am privileged to be able to write about readers’ lives and dreams.”
are just genuine real people so don’t be afraid to be yourself.” Today, as a lecturer of BA (Hons) Writing Fashion & Culture, she equips her students with everything a journalist needs in the big wide world. “Arm yourself with great interviews under your belt, and keep that book of contacts bulging in your pocket at all times.”
Alex meets Karl Lagerfield.
With a broad range of editorial experience and a mountain of published work in magazines, Alex provides key advice to anyone looking for a spot in the journalist industry. “Editors
Alex excuses herself as she returns to her busy schedule. Emphasising that working in the industry is no walk in the park, she makes it very clear that her passion keeps her strong, and her ambition has got her where she is today. “Never say never,” she says, while dashing off to teach the next big things.
Fashionable, happy, successful and now blessed with two children, Alex is everything a career-driven woman aspires to be. But as she reminds us, its not out of our reach either.
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careers
A Day in the Life of:
Words Lauren Austin Photographs Provided by Anna Gardner
Anna Gardner
Beauty PR and Editorial Assistant Young, determined and now a successful PR and Editorial Assistant at JolieBox, Anna Gardner takes us on a motivating journey through a typical day within the beauty industry.
my days immersed in the world of beauty.” The days are clearly jam-packed for Anna, whether it’s writing a post for JolieBlog, introducing a new and exciting product set to hit the market, or reviewing a sensational spa for the JoliePlace section in the Jolie Magazine, there’s always a fun and exhilarating challenge around the corner. “Some days I find myself typing like a madwoman to meet deadlines, but I still just love it all!”
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When venturing out of the office, it’s time to attend as many events as possible, and being London-based provides Anna with plenty of opportunities. “I love attending different events, it’s a great way to meet new people and spread your name across the industry.” Flying free from the office provides Anna with real industry knowledge and involvement, getting her fully equipped for the big wide world. Out of bed by 6am, and commuting to London by 7am, the day starts off with some M&S goodies and a coffee to go. “As soon as I arrive at my office I water my orchid and then get straight down to business!” You may wonder how a graduate in Psychology landed in the world of beauty, but it was Anna’s passion for blogging that opened her eyes to the wonderful world of PR.
At the end of a long day, it’s time for a lengthy journey home, and it’s quite hard to imagine Anna finally putting her feet up with a glass of Cava watching Gossip Girl… “Some days I do just fancy coming home, switching off, wrapping up in a slanket and cracking out some serious TV viewing!” Proving that we can all be successful and have time to sit back and enjoy life, a day in the life of Anna Gardner is definitely worth fighting for.
“It seemed like fun, plus my knowledge of the beauty blogging community seemed to fit the bill. So after a month of deciding whether it was the right move, I hit the beauty PR internship route head on with some serious job hunting and mega CV send-outs. Two internships later I landed a job at JolieBox, and have enjoyed my time there ever since.”
The dream doesn’t just end there for Anna however, as she intends to build upon her career towards the journalism side of JolieBox. “Perhaps even one day I’ll be able to call myself a beauty journalist/beauty blogger! Of course my own personal blog will always hold a special place in my heart - it’s my little baby! But it would be great to see my journalism grow…”
Career-driven and passionate; Anna is fixed in the job she is devoted to: “The thing I love the most is that I get to spend
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fashion
On Our Wishlist
This month’s “if we could, we would” dream designer goods. Whet your appetite with these luxury wardrobe staples that Olivia Palermo and Alexa Chung would be envious of...
Words Lauren Austin and Michelle Chai Illustrations Ella Masters
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Chanel 2.55 Icon Bag, Chanel, £2850.
Leather Collar Trench Coat, Burberry Prorsum, £950.
Kitty Flats, Charlotte Olympia, £485.
fashion Neil Bas Relief Pendant on Chain, Vivienne Westwood, £145.
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Lips Clutches, Lulu Guinness, from £245.
Peace Friendship Bracelet, Mulberry, £60. Monte Carlo Stole in Pale Pink, Louis Vuitton. £800.
“hello 14
london!� Photographs and creative direction by Michelle Chai. Styling by Michelle Chai and Toni Ogle. Modelled by Toni Ogle. Illustrations by Ella Masters.
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Floral dress, £22.99, AX Paris, Tights, £8, Topshop, Platform lace-up wedge boots, £60, ASOS, Stud earrings, £6, Urban Outfitters, Petticoat white Alexa, £795, Mulberry.
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Overcoat, Thrifted, Ankle socks, £8, Topshop. Brogues, £32, Urban Outfitters.
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OPPOSITE PAGE: Overcoat, Thrifted, Floral playsuit, ÂŁ45, Dahlia, Socks and brogues as before.
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Tweed blazer, £110, Jaeger, Blouse, £38, Topshop, Shorts, £38, Zara, Brogues, £28, Topshop.
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fashion “Shop Shop!”
Prep your wardrobe ready for a summer in the City, with the High Street’s hottest new pieces. Dare to be a dreamer with idealistic British classics or get girly with Vuitton-inspired sugar pastels.
Trousers, £16.99, New Look
Mulberry
Photographs PR Shots, Mulberry.
Top, £22, People Tree.
Jacket, £25, New Look.
“Hello London!”
Very Clothing
Skirt, £87, French Connection Shorts, £25, Very.co.uk
Dress, £15.99, Topshop.
Top, £40, Monsoon
Balletic Romance
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Top, £19.99, Miss Selfridge, Skirt, £34.99, Topshop, Shoes, £15.99, New Look, Earrings, £9.99, Dorothy Perkins.
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Photographs, styling and illustrations by Lauren Austin. Modelled by Sian Robertson.
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Dress, £19.99, Zara, Shoes, £15.99, Dorothy Perkins, Earrings, £9.99, Urban Outfitters.
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Top, £19.99, Miss Selfridge, Skirt, £34.99, Topshop, Shoes, £15.99, New Look, Earrings, £9.99, Dorothy Perkins.
Top, £19.99, Miss Selfridge, Necklace, £30, Lola Rose, Eyelashes, £5.99, Eylure.
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Shoes, ÂŁ25.99, Monsoon.
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fashion The Runway Edit: Louis Vuitton SS12
Sugary pastels, macaroon-inspired coiffed hair styles, ladylike handbags, feathers, frills and all things feminine swanned down the carousel runway in Paris in September. Here’s our refresher course of what Marc Jacobs and the Louis Vuitton world has to offer this season and how you can wear the look - give or take a few feathers - for your own wardrobe.
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F Words Michelle Chai. Photographs Style.com.
ollowing a monumental thirty seasons of Marc Jacobs’ genius at Louis Vuitton as creative director, his recent SS12 endeavours firmly planted Jacobs’ and Vuitton’s deserved spot in fashion history. No stranger to taking risks and king of the famous Fashion 180°, the fashion glitterati took their seats on the circular ‘FROW’ in nervous anticipation for what had been rumoured to be Jacobs’ last season. Taking the models on a fairground carousel ride in the Louvre’s Cour Carrée, Louis Vuitton SS12 was a far cry from last season: handbags were top-handled, hues were soft with a sophisticated ease and years of pristine craftsmanship were displayed as the carousel fashion stage revolved to an eerily refreshing soundtrack. On the Parisian runway, sugary sweet ladylike influences overpowered the tougher silhouettes seen at other Paris Fashion Week shows. Even Kate Moss, the last model standing who notably closed the show, embraced purest white
feathers and an elegant, fittingly crown-like headpiece for the occasion, a far cry from the usual skinny jean and boots look that established Moss as the style icon of the decade. To sugar-coat your wardrobe this season, a key investment piece will be the boucle jacket, preferably in a muted tone, or in black paired with pastel jeans. The Louis Vuitton look is all about the perfect mesh between classic and contemporary, bringing prim ladylike pieces to the modern-day lifestyle with a quirky, panache twist. Marc Jacobs’ Vuitton girls were dressed head to toe in elegant two-piece suits so keep the two-piece look fresh with an injection of denim or gold accessories. Finish off with tousled, coiffed loose waves and wear a top-handled It-bag in the crook of your arm for the perfect summery sugar feel. Oh Marc, you’ve done it again. Booked a long weekend away from the office? Catch the Louis Vuitton – Marc Jacobs exhibition in Paris, at the Musée des Arts Decoratifs, open until 16 September 2012.
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beauty The Beauty List Primp and preen ready for Monday morning with the newest and most innovative beauty classics this month. Whether you’re a skincare junkie or you love a doll-like flush to your cheeks, Michelle Chai tests the top beauty pickings.
Words Michelle Chai. Photographs Michelle Chai, Rituals Press Office, Kiehl’s Press Office.
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KIEHL’S WASHABLE CLEANSING MILK “A favourite with long time Kiehl’s customers, this is a creamy, milk formulated cleanser for normal to dry skin. Bringing an infusion of moisture to the skin, it is the perfect light cleanser for your summer skincare routine. Follow up with a toner and moisturiser for seriously supple skin.”
LANCÔME HYPNÔSE DOLL EYES MASCARA “Epitomising French luxury, Lancôme’s newest mascara is a firm favourite in the Aesthetic office. The cone shaped wand makes sure that every lash is coated, creating the perfect wide-eyed doll look. Sweep a few lashes of Doll Eyes on for an effortless daytime look.”
£18.00 / 250ML. VISIT WWW.KIEHLS.COM TO VIEW AND SHOP THE FULL RANGE
£21. VISIT WWW.LANCOME.CO.UK TO SHOP THIS PRODUCT
DAVINES AUTHENTIC MOISTURISING BALM “This sustainable and ethical multi-use product from Davines is from their first professional total use line with natural origin ingredients and aromatherapy balancing, vitalising properties. Perfect for removing makeup, hydrating hair and moisturising the body, with a burst of citrus scents.”
BENEFIT HERVANA BOXED POWDER BLUSH “Benefit’s latest boxed powder offering only serves to continue their winning streak (of blush). Containing four shades to be swirled together for a warm flush to the cheeks, Hervana is a must-have for your make-up bag this summer.”
£17.40 / 150ML. VISIT WWW.DAVINES.COM TO VIEW AND SHOP THE FULL RANGE
£23.50 / 8.0G. VISIT WWW.BENEFITCOSMETICS.CO.UK TO SHOP THIS PRODUCT
RITUALS HAMMAM DELIGHT FOAMING SHOWER GEL “The ultimate in luxury shower products, this foaming shower gel is fresh, clean and woody at the same time. The scent is sophisticated enough to use for both day and night, with a thick, creamy consistency that lathers up like no other.”
CHANEL ROUGE COCO SHINE – (57) AVENTURE “While it isn’t purse-friendly, Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Aventure is the ultimate in coral pinks. Creamy and just-sheer-enough for everyday – and every night – use, Aventure tells the story of a seaside adventure of a girl at the start of her destiny.”
£4.99 / 50ML. VISIT WWW.BOOTS.CO.UK TO SHOP THIS PRODUCT
£23.00. AVAILABLE AT ALL GOOD BEAUTY STOCKISTS AND CHANEL COUNTERS
beauty
Polka Dot Pretty!
Words and Photographs Lauren Austin Model Leanne Gresswell
This summer sweet pastels have returned, adding a little sugar, spice and all things nice to our wardrobes. So with the latest patterned-nail hype, these delicious ice scream shades alongside pretty polka dots create a fresh, girly glow to any outfit. Quirky yet subtle, this nail art is easy-peasylemon-squeezy!
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Paint each nail in a soft pastel shade. Creamy and glossy, Barry M’s pastel range is oh-so fun and glides on super smoothly.
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Grab a cocktail stick, and dip lightly into a small puddle of polish. Make sure you don’t over dab: you don’t want splodgy blotches!
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Gently dab small dots across the nail. For your writing hand, you may need a friend’s help! But be daring a give it a go… For a glossy finish, make sure you add a top coat, this smooths down the polka dots, creating an even, non-lumpy layer.
beauty
Fairest of Them All Words and Photographs Lauren Austin Model Sian Robertson
With the recent release of Mirror, Mirror and Snow White and the Huntsman, ‘lips red as roses and skin white as snow’ are what every fair maiden desires this season. Classic, simple and feminine, you’re sure to wow Prince Charming by following just three easy steps.
If your complexion is naturally pale, Estee Lauder Double Wear in Shell, £30, provides a smooth, dense coverage, presenting an image that is both icy and soft. For darker skin tones, never try to go paler. You can still look porcelain with Estee Lauder’s Double Wear darker range. However, apply a light brushing of Rimmel Transparent Loose Powder, £4.99, to add extra flawlessness.
r, o r r i M r o r “Mir l...” l a w e h t n o
Keep the eye area as simple as possible, highlighting the brow with Benefit Browzings, £22.50. With structured eyebrows and a neatly framed face, a flick of Mac Studio Fix Lash Mascara, £14, will create sweeping lightweight lashes, avoiding any distraction from Snow White’s twinkling eyes.
Finally, for those rose bud lips, Dainty Doll lipstick in Saucy Sailor red, £12.50, is deep and rich for a showstopping effect. Paint over with Two Faced Double Lip Injection, £22, for a plumper pout, in preparation for true loves first kiss…
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interiors An afternoon with...
Jenny Wolf Words Michelle Chai Photographs Jenny Wolf Interiors
Jenny Wolf talks to Aesthetic about her flair for ‘weaving personalities with possessions’, her wildly successful interior design company and shares her tips with us for putting that all-important stamp of style to your rented pad.
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ew York based interior designer, Jenny Wolf, transcends style from all aspects: from her sleek aubergine Smythson notebook, to her effortlessly styled flaxen hair, to the way her eyes expertly assess her surroundings as we sit down to chat to her about her interior design background. This is a woman who means business but is sweetly covert about it. Jenny is relaxed, bubbly and constantly noting inspirations from her experiences and this afternoon is no exception: ‘I just love driftwood and those airy, aquatic colours at the moment,’ she says of the Southampton café that we’ve settled down at. A creative from her early years, Jenny began her career in retail. ‘I started off with retail development at Ralph Lauren. Think long, draining hours and not much sleep!’ she says with a smile. ‘I managed shop installations and visual merchandising, which was creatively, very fulfilling, and I even ended up working semifreelance for Ralph Lauren with the installations at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales in New York City. Five years later though, I began a degree at Parsons in Interior Design where I discovered my passion for architecture, colour, lighting and interior layout. My family have always been interested in furniture and architecture, so I guess it was always an inevitable step for me.’
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Jenny then progressed to assist on a number of residential projects before deciding to open up her own design company: Jenny Wolf Interiors. A well-respected firm renowned for Jenny’s attention to detail and creative flair, Jenny Wolf Interiors has an ‘organic approach’ to interiors.
and wife and mother, Jenny is a committed and inspirational individual, with her mind constantly ticking about current, upcoming and past projects. ‘Quite surprisingly, one of my most highly requested projects is for first-time renters and buyers.’ says Jenny with a sip of her cappuccino.
‘I like to emphasise simplicity in someone’s home. A home should reflect the lifestyle and passions of the people living in it, showcasing the things they love and have collected over time. My work motto is to weave personalities with possessions.’
‘I can still remember my first-time rental apartment. It consisted of my mattress, a makeshift bedside table and some ratty, old furniture that came with the flat. Not very inspiring, I can assure you! I reupholstered a chair and swapped some cushion covers around for a stamp of Wolf-style on “my first place” and instantly, ideas were flowing. That’d be one of my biggest tips for a place that feels like it holds no style hopes!’
And what about her personal style? ‘Is it any surprise that I’ve grown wildly away from Ralph Lauren?’ Jenny says with a little laugh. ‘I’m just kidding, I’m very true to my SoCal roots and have a very relaxed, bohemian-inspired style. I’m very simplistic in approach: if I’m inspired by something in my work, it is almost immediately reflected in my clothes that day! It’s a very far cry from my post-grad days at Ralph Lauren where my work “uniform” meant I could get away with minimal thought and still look well put together.’ Who could blame her? Jenny’s hectic lifestyle leaves little time for anything else. A go-getter, early adopter, multi-tasker
Jenny’s design portfolio is now a force to be reckoned with, boasting a huge variety of personal, commercial, residential and professional projects. Her organic style has become synonymous with the NYC design aesthetic and even at a glance, one can always associate muted colour palettes, antique furniture and detail placement, personality and sophisticated elegance with the Jenny Wolf grandeur. TO CONTACT JENNY WOLF FOR BOOKINGS AND ENQUIRIES, PLEASE VISIT HER WEBSITE: www.jennywolfinteriors.com.
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interiors Making A House A Home... Words Lauren Austin Photographs PR Shots; Debenhams, Matalan, Monsoon
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hilst growing up it always felt as though our bedroom had close resemblance to solitary confinement. As children we were sentenced to stay there until “after dinner” and as students, Halls of Residence became a prison room of hard-core study- armed with lumpy bed, a sink and a wonky desk. So after all these years, you can literally taste the freedom as you begin house/flat hunting for the very first time. But how do you style this empty building and make it feel like home? As a stylish career-driven woman, you want a clean, minimalist space with vibrant colours to flash your fun-loving personality. Summer is here, and it’s time to embrace the season’s biggest trend- florals. The high street is blooming with flowery buys, so your home can look lavish, but well-budgeted. A statement floral wall looks both classy and on-trend and instantly warms up an empty room, but in case this makes a room look even smaller, be sure to add a bulky mirror to provide the illusion of a larger space. Keep the furniture white and minimalistic, allowing the vibrant decorations to glow. Raid your parent’s old unwanted cupboards and storage space, to store any clutter and mess! You can easily sand this down and spray it white or cream later.
Glam up plain cushions and curtains with ribbon, beads and lace for a dash of personality, and enhance the bedroom and bathroom with romantic, scented candles, to relax and enter your element at the end of a difficult day. Banish boxes and cartons that may be on show: cereals and dried spaghetti look much more appealing in glass containers. If you’re expecting guests, trim the heads off fresh colourful roses and place them into a clear shallow bowl of water to elegantly float in the centre of the dinner table- You can also add shiny glass beads to the bottom for extra embellishment! So let the house-warming begin, welcoming the girls with a bottle of Vino Rosa, and a night of laughter and celebration to christen your new loved home.
interiors The best of the bunch...
This beautiful tea set, £15.99, Carol Lake, Debenhams, is perfect for leisurely lunches with the girls on a summer’s afternoon
45 These containers, £7.99 each, Debenhams, are perfect for neatly storing food and condiments. Garish boxes and tins are banned from the kitchen, making way for style.
Pretty floral storage boxes, £15, Matalan, are attractive and tidy up any clutter, leaving your house with a fresh minimalistic aura.
Bright cushions, £28, Debenhams, immediately warm up an empty house. Stylish and fun, they bring summer to your home all year round.
For the office, stock up on these exotic, oriental fabric notebooks from Monsoon, £8.00, for a feminine yet professional appeal.
food Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup Full of healthy nutrients and the perfect warm-up to your New York dinner party, this creamy cabbage and potato soup is filling, indulgent and you won’t even need any extra bowls!
Words Michelle Chai Photographs BBC Good Food, The Dainty Chef.
Ingredients 46
1 TBSP olive oil 1 onion, diced pinch of crushed red pepper flakes 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 potatoes, peeled and shredded 1 carrot, shredded salt and pepper 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1/2 medium sized head of cabbage, shredded 5 cups chicken stock 1 parmesan cheese rind (optional) 1 can evaporated milk 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
Method
In large soup pot heat olive oil. Add onion and crushed red pepper flakes and saute until onions are translucent, 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and saute for another minute or two. Add potatoes and carrot and season generously with salt and pepper and the dried thyme. Add the cabbage and the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, add the parmesan cheese rind (if using) and simmer for about 30 minutes or until cabbage is tender. Stir in the evaporated milk and remove from heat. Gradually add the cheese a little at a time and stir until melted and creamy. Remove the cheese rind before serving. To make the bread bowls: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Slice the top off of the bread bowl. Hollow out the bowl, leaving a 1/2� thick shell. Place bowl and lid (cut side up) on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Sprinkle with a little grated parmesan cheese. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Summer warmer goodness!
food Buffalo Chicken Tacos Bring an elegant version of traditional Mexican tacos to the table with these buffalo chicken tacos. Perfectly chic and the ideal social meal, impress your guests with your culinary finesse and this simple recipe.
Method Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, cayenne, and garlic powder. Season the chicken pieces with pepper, then dredge in the flour mixture. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the Dutch oven and once it gets hot, add chicken and cook on both sides – about three to four minutes per side. Once the chicken is done, set it aside in a bowl and toss with half a cup of cup buffalo wing sauce. Assemble 10 tacos, dividing the toppings evenly among each taco.
Ingredients 1lb chicken breasts, skinless, boneless, cut into inch pieces 1 cup flour 3 tablespoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 cup buffalo wing sauce, plus extra for garnishment 47 1 tablespoon olive oil 10 six-inch yellow corn tortillas
Toppings: Shredded butter lettuce Diced onions mixed with cilantro Avocado slices Ranch dressing Green onions, sliced thinly
Stack ‘em up!
food New York Cheesecake To complete a city girl’s perfect dinner party, we need a dessert that holds ALL of the following characteristics: rich, dense and coated with elegance. Yes it’s the NY cheesecake, a delicacy which never goes out of style! This recipe provides you with the most luxurious cheesecake with a summertime twist.
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Method
Heat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4. Put the digestive biscuits into a food bag, and release any stress with a rolling pin! Or you can cheat and use a food processor… Mix together with melted butter. Line a 20cm spring-form tin with parchment paper, and press mixture tightly to base and bake for 5 minutes, then cool. Raise oven temperature to 240°C/fan 220°C/gas 9. For the filling, beat the soft cheese with an electric hand whisk on a low speed. Gradually add the sugar, plain flour, double cream and vanilla extract until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, and slowly combine the eggs until light and fluffy. Carefully stir in 200g of raspberries (we’ll keep a few for decorative purposes). Pour the filling into your spring-form tin, edges previously brushed with butter. Bake for 10 minutes, and then reduce heat to 110°C/fan 90°C/gas ¼. Bake for a further 20 minutes.
Ingredients Crust
85g butter, melted 140g digestive biscuits 1 tbsp sugar, granulated
Topping
142ml carton soured cream 300g fresh raspberries (optional) 200g white chocolate, melted (optional)
Filling
3 x 300g full fat (one off girls!) soft cheese 250g Caster sugar 3 tbsp plain flour 2 tbsp vanilla extract 3 large eggs, plus one yolk 284ml double cream
Remove cake from oven, and make life a little easier by using a round bladed knife to loosen the edges. Place on a cooling rack for two hours. For the topping, combine the double cream, the sugar and white chocolate for the topping. Spread over the cheesecake right to the edges. Cover loosely with foil and refrigerate for at least eight hours or overnight. Unlock the side, and slide the cheesecake off the bottom of the tin onto a plate, then slide the parchment paper out from underneath. Decorate with fresh raspberries, et voilà!
Baked with style...
food Cosmo Queens & the City Now you can’t have a New York themed dinner party without the classic Cosmopolitan- it’s compulsory. Zesty, fresh and elegant, this timeless cocktail made famous by the girls of Sex & the City is most welcome at the table…
Words Lauren Austin Photographs Lauren Austin Illustration Philippa Vernals
Ingredients
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Serves 4 120ml (4fl oz) lemon vodka 60ml (2fl oz) Cointreau or triple sec 2 freshly squeezed limes or lime cordial if preferred6 60ml (2fl oz) cranberry juice
Method Poor ice into 4 martini glasses, and chill. Shake the vodka, Cointreau, lime and cranberry juice vigorously in a shaker with ice. If you haven’t got a shaker, mix the ingredients well with a spoon. Empty the ice, and strain the cocktail evenly into the 4 martini glasses. Decorate each glass with a wedge of lime and sugar around the rim. Alternatively, for a fiery and citrusy punch, peel a 50p sized piece of orange skin, curl between your fingers, and set alight for a couple of seconds before dropping it into each drink. Serve immediately.
Cheers!
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talent Ruby Rae Love by Ella Masters
A freelance illustrator and teaching assistant, as well as a fashion and art blogger, Ella Masters epitomises determination and creative flair. If it’s possible to fall in love with talent, then here at Aesthetic, we certainly have. As Ella inches towards her goal of owning a mobile boutique of handcrafted wares, we sit down for a cup of Earl Grey and chat to the lady herself. SO TELL US ABOUT THE VELVET FEATHER JOURNEY SO FAR… I started my online jewellery shop in March 2011. It started off as something I did between jobs, something relatively small, and many bloggers bought items from RubyRaeLove, but it really took off last summer. I have had some really lovely opportunities with RRL. WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN SOURCES OF INSPIRATION? My main source of inspiration is a variation of beautiful things, often I use the memories of my childhood to inspire my pieces, I try to create pieces that my ten-year-old self would have loved. WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE ELLA MASTERS PORTFOLIO? Lots of lovely positive things, I am working on a lot of different projects: I am first and foremost an artist so I am always thinking of the next creative project. currently I am working on a series of paintings of beautiful tattooed ladies. As for RubyRaeLove, there are lots of lovely collaborations coming up and a few new exciting pieces in store that i will be sharing via my little blog ‘Ella’. You can catch some of Ella’s work throughout this issue of Aesthetic… right now! Ella blogs her creative process at www.ellamasters.com, and you can shop RubyRaeLove online: www.rubyraelove.bigcartel.com.
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travel A small girl in a big City
New York... the city where any fashion-conscious girl should be. Bursting with energy and filled with opportunity, Lauren Austin asks ‘what are you waiting for?’ The first time I went to New York - as you can imagine - was simply mind-blowing. A suitcase jammed with only the best of my dresses and clutching my loyal Louis Vuitton, I was ready to conquer the City. My list of things ‘to-do’ could have wrapped around New York itself - twice. There were the monuments, the department stores, the restaurants, the theatres, the boutiques, the tours and just not enough time. My first set of advice is to strongly narrow down your ‘to-do’ list. Ticking one experience off a day is enough, leaving you time to relish the moment and enjoy a cocktail (or four).
service and fuelled for a long day - I’m set to go. So I begin my journey around the City, and to my surprise, I came across a familiar little cupcake store, the Magnolia Bakery on 401 Bleecker St (at 11th St.) made famous by Sex & the City. Invited in by the alluring smell and array of perfect little cakes all delicately frosted, I left with four red velvet cupcakes, a crème puff slice and two cherry tarts. What time does the tea party begin? Hopping into a yellow cab, I’m exhausted from roaming the streets today. It’s cocktail o’clock, so I head for Grand Central Station for a couple of cheeky Cosmos. Sitting back and flicking though my photos, today has been nice. With tomorrows plans in mind, I have an early night and prepare for another day involving a small girl exploring a big City.
Photograph by Lauren Austin. Illustration by Philippa Vernals.
We instantly feel we need to see the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State building etc. But take a second to think; we see these daily on television, films, books and magazines, not to mention the attraction it draws to tourists. I’m not saying keep away, but maybe narrow these down a little. I’m about to reveal the secrets of New York, where tourists are scarce and culture is abundant. So if you’re like me and passionate about vintage, Local Clothing at 328 East 9th Street immerses you in fabulous second hand gems. Prices gravitate to around $90, but everything is well selected and beautifully made with an electric touch. I can honestly say that I’m not a breakfast person; however breakfast in the City is inevitable. You could meander along the streets and come across hundreds of breakfast bars, but Andrew’s Coffee Shop proved to be particularly exceptional. Filled with busy New Yorkers stocking up on caffeine for the day, I fill myself with blueberry pancakes. Sweet, succulent and stacked sky high, I think I’m in heaven. Friendly staff, fast
To Do List:
Sweet Mellissa Patisserie - 276 Court St (at Douglass) - Brooklyn, NY For tea, cake and finger sandwiches, whilst sat under then sunshine in charming gardens. Meat Packing District (Gansevoort Market) New York’s most fashionable neighbourhood with exclusives clubs, cashdraining boutiques and hip restaurants. Despite the haute onslaught, this area is the local’s trendiest. Peasant Wine Bar– 194 Elizabeth St. (Near Spring St.) One of Downtown’s best kept secrets, hidden under a rustic Italian restaurant, is the perfect spot to spend an evening over wood-fired pizzas with a carafe of red wine, alongside complimentary olives and bread. You might wonder why anyone springs for the pricier entrées upstairs.
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listings June Job Listings Closer, Features Editor Bauer Media, London Contract Type: Temporary Salary: DOE
To apply for the position please send your CV with a covering letter explaining why you are perfect for the role to Helen at helen.morgan@closermag.co.uk.
Asos, Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor London (NW1 Camden) Contract Type: Permanent Salary: DOE
To apply for this position, please visit Gorkanajobs.co.uk and fill out their application form online.
Fashion Photographer
Harper’s Bazaar, Deputee Chief Sub-Editor Hearst Magazines UK, London Contract Type: Permanent Salary: DOE To apply for this position, please send your CV and covering letter to Dom Price at dom.price@ hearst.co.uk.
Digital Image Retoucher and Photographer’s Assistant Interiors and Homeware Design Contract Type: Freelance Salary: £63 per day, three days a week
Creative and innovative individual required for a photography assistant vacancy. Must hold industry and studio experience, and preferably, own tools and equipment. To apply for this position please send your CV, covering letter and visual creative portfolio to dom.price@hearst.co.uk.
Styled by Lex, London Contract Type: Freelance Salary: Negotiable To apply for this position, please send your CV, covering letter and portfolio with any relevant written and visual fashion content to info@styledbylex.com.
Fashion Illustrator Pool Couture, London Contract Type: Freelance Salary: £10 per hour
To apply for this position, please send your CV, covering letter and examples of previous, related fashion work to charlie@charlietkitts.com.
Press Off ice Intern L’Oreal, Hammersmith London Contract Type: 12 month internship Salary: £18,000
Outgoing, organised, all-round performing student or post-graduate required for a year of invaluable experience in our busy head office, press department. Please send CV and covering letter to interns@uk.loreal.com.
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WITH THANKS TO: Alexandra Shakespeare Anna Gardner The Design Museum Ego Box Doodles Ella Masters Jenny Wolf Kiehl’s Press Office Koya Restaurants Mulberry Press Office Philippa Vernals PR Shots Purl London Ruby Rae Love Rituals Press Office Sian Robertson Toni Ogle
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THE AESTHETIC TEAM Lauren Austin | Michelle Chai tel 020 6395 4271 e hello@aesthetic.co.uk t @aestheticmag w www.aesthetic.co.uk
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Until next time...
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