Amor Spring 18th Issue 2014

Produced by the young woman, for the young woman | EDUCATE, EMPOWER, UNITE

EYEBROWS : Bushy Is Back!

An Introduction to Afrobeats Spring Fa s h i o n Trends

BRIT Awards

London Fashion Week TOP 10

SINGLE? But Are you REALLY ReadY To Mingle?

LITTLE NIKKI talks new single ‘YoYo’ and her alter ego Nicole!

Issue 18 Spring 2014

Qualities Needed From Your Potential Business Partner

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EDITORS & MANAGEMENT

Editor-in-Chief: Ruby Mae Moore Technical Director: Tori Neburagho Creative Director: Sherina Bigby Head of Marketing: Shellon Rodney Sales: Zara Clarence & Ashley Powell Fashion Editor: Wardah Sempa Beauty Editor: Patricia Obaro Odje Music Editor: Ella December Entertainment Editor: Jan-Marie Revers Proofreader: Gwyn Havard

JOURNALISTS

Charley Jai, Louise Ann Munro, Jan-Marie Revers, Rachael Kitson, Jane Placca, Kristéle Ng Man Sun, Folasade Johnson, Wardah Sempa, Lolade Hassan, Elisha Ricketts, Jade Odusote, Dami Olonisakin, Ellen Simmons, Patricia Obaro Odje, Raeesa Essack, Araminta Pender, Jasmin Woodward, Ruby Mae Moore, Jacqueline Du’ven, Catherine Morgan, Katie Tsappas, Bex Clare, Sammy Jane, Immanuella Okunubi, Ella December, Oadrey Vincent, Keisha Joseph, Yazmin Joy Vigus, Kylie Slevin

CONTRIBUTORS & THANKS TO

Little Nikki, Sony Music, Bite The Ballot, King Cook Daily, Photographer - Ben Hughes, Louise Ann Munro – ACTivation Personal Trainer and Nutrition Advisor, Shea Moisture, Dreamz Beauty & Healthcare Ltd, We-Vibe, Stature PR, The Hair and Cosmetic Company, Teenage Cancer Trust, Brook Advisory Clinic, Bleuribbon Hair, LFW, Mulberry, Ted Baker, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Saint Laurent, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Prada, Topshop, Boohoo. com, Etsy.com, Aussie, Vaseline, Seventeen, Nails Inc, MUA, Nivea, French Connection, Boots, Smashbox, John Lewis, Clinique, Tom Ford, Mierous Hennessy, Stylist - Umika Verma, MakeUp Artist - Elle Iman, Photographer - Phoebe Cheong, Sharon @ Bloomers Lingerie, Chanel, Presenter – Mya, I Act Tv, Vault Studios, Chill London, Bridget Kelly, Roc Nation, Brit Awards 2014, Jordanne Patrice, EE BAFTA Awards, Yahoo Wireless, Remi O, Actor Expo, Mama Leahs, Duck & Waffle, Benihanas, MyJobMatcher.com, Unrivalled Media, Stay Clean Ltd, Velvet Pose, Fash-Jon, Ginge London, H&M

Editor-in-chief: Ruby Moore ruby@amormagazine.co.uk t: @TheRubyMaeMoore Fashion Editor: Wardah Sempa wardah@amormagazine.co.uk t: @wardahsempa Beauty Editor: Patricia Obaro Odje patricia@amormagazine.co.uk t: @The_Bellss Music Editor: Ella December ella@amormagazine.co.uk t: @EllaDecember Entertainment Editor: Jan Marie Revers jan@amormagazine.co.uk t: @JMRevers Lifestyle & Current Affairs Journalist | PR: Elisha Ricketts elisha@amormagazine.co.uk t: @ElishaRicketts Marketing: Shellon Rodney shellon@amormagazine.co.uk t: @shellonrodney Press: press@amormagazine.co.uk General: info@amormagazine. co.uk To advertise email: sales@amormagazine.co.uk or call Zara Clarence +44(0)7804 161782 | Ashley Powell +44(0)7939 935533 DISTRIBUTED BY TH&C (The Hair & Cosmetic Company Limited)

CONTENTS

HEALTH

COVER STORY

8-10 KING COOK DAILY : Recipes 12-14 A-Z ON HEALTH – G H I : Genital Herpes, Hysterectomy, Infertility 15 ECZEMA 16-18 FITNESS : How To Keep Those New Year’s Resolutions All Year Long

46-49 Little Nikki talks new single ‘Yo Yo’ and her alter ego Nicole

HAIR & BEAUTY 21 SKIN RE-VAMP : How To Get Radiant Skin For Spring After The Long Grey Winter 22-23 VALENTINE’S DAY : Gifts, Make-Up, Outfits 24-25 EYEBROWS : Bushy Is Back | OUR SPRING BEAUTY TRENDSETTERS 26-27 BEAUTY & FASHION EVENTS | REVIEW : Bleuribbon Hair 28-29 SPRING HAIR TRENDS 30-31 BRAIDS : Gotta Love ‘em!

32-33 TOP 10 : Make Up Beauty Products

FASHION 34-36 AN EVENING OF SPRING 37 MOST WEARABLE TRENDS FOR SPRING 2014 38-39 IT’S ABOUT TIME AMOR TALKED ABOUT FUR | BOMBER JACKETS 40-41 CLASSIC DESIGNER BAGS : For Less Than £1000 42-43 LONDON FASHION WEEK RETURNS | 5 TIPS ON HOW TO PICK OUT THE “PERFECT” BRA 44-45 QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

MUSIC 50-51 INTERVIEW : Bridget Kelly 52-53 BRIT AWARD 2014 | MUSIC NEWS | TOP 10 LOVE SONGS 54-56 ‘NIGGAS’ IN MUSIC | INTRODUCTION TO AFROBEATS 56-57 BEYONCΈ 58-59 JORDANNE PATRICE : Jamaica’s answer to Rihanna

ENTERTAINMENT 60-61 EVENT LISTINGS | CONCERT LISTINGS 62-63 FILM DIARY | WHAT I’M READING 64 BAFTA AWARDS

LIFESTYLE 66-67 INSPIRATIONAL FEMALE –Remi O founder of Actor Expo | INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 68-69 HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS | RESTAURANT REVIEWS 70-71 HOW TO : Get Your Work Published – Ella December 72-75 7 TIPS TO JOB SEEKING SUCCESS | TOP 10 QUALITIES NEEDED FROM YOUR POTENTIAL BUSINESS PARTNER | 3 KEY SPRING SAVING TIPS

LOVE & SEX 76-80

18+ VALENTINE’S GIVEAWAYS FOR SINGLETONS & COUPLES

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, We-Vibe is giving away to a few lucky readers We-Vibe products (products include intimate toys for solo-use/couples) Email: competitions@amormagazine.co.uk | Subject: We-Vibe | Stating name & address | SINGLE/COUPLE? | The winner will be announced by 28th February 2014 http://we-vibe.com/

EDITOR’S NOTE “@BinkyFelstead: Walking past Mulberry…

UGRHHHH I want EVERYTHING!!!!” - The Made in Chelsea star has it bad for designer gear!

H

ey Amorelles!

How’s it going!?

Just a quick note to say I am extremely happy with this issue! We have worked hard at Amor – so I hope you enjoy this edition as much as we have enjoyed putting it together.

Really excited to have some new young entrepreneurs on board for advertising.

I also take great pride in introducing you to our new Music Editor - Ella December who is the author of ‘Crossroads’ (to learn more about Ella and her book please visit p.70-71).

For our Cover Story (p.46-49) we have Little Nikki – I’m a personal fan! We also have an interview with Rocnation’s Bridget Kelly (p.50-51) – please visit youtube.com/amormagazine to check out our televised interview with them both.

Happy Spring! – From now until the next issue, I hope you are all working on those Summer bods (I am!)

Love Rubzzz! @TheRubyMaeMoore XX CELEB FACT: Lorde’s first single “Royals” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2013, making her the first New Zealand solo artist to have a number one song in the United States - Go girl!!

06 Amor Spring 2014

“@jamaledwards: The most important thing to do if you find yourself in a hole is to stop digging” - Wise words from the SB.TV founder

TOP

“@xxkdxx: You only have three choices in life, give up, give in or give it your all!”

- Get educated Amorelles…’Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’ - Nelson Mandela “@T_Hav_Eker: ‘You can’t get much done in life if you only work on the days when you feel good.’ – Jerry West FREE! #BestoftheBest” - Stay motivated Amorelles!

Kirst y Hesle

wo od

MISS ENGL

Researched by Charley Jai | @msCJ80

C o m pe te world s fo

MAG TO DOOR SERV ICE If none of our distribution sites are near you, why not get the magazine delivered straight to your door? You can purchase the ‘mag to door’ service by visiting: www.amormagazine.co.uk/subscriptions For 1 year’s subscription (which included 4 magazines) price – £11.99 One-off magazine – £3.99 WE AT E, EM PO ma n | ED UC the yo un g wo g wo ma n, for un yo the Pro du ced by

Produc ed by the young woman , for the young woman | EDUCA TE, EMPOW ER, UNITE

EYEBROWS : Bushy Is Back!

An Introduction to Afrobeats

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Spring Fashion Trends

HOW TO A RADIO BE /TV HOST

uty Bea FREE Tips from XFACTOR’s Cit y ickLE? BrSING in zmAre YaBut

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HEALTH

KING COOK DAILY

King Cook Daily With Chinese New Year just gone, of the oriental brings you 3 dishes in celebration festive season.

CRISPY VEGETARIAN SPRING ROLLS

S

pring rolls, a classic appetizer that almost everybody loves to order when eating Chinese.

If you're not familiar with Photos : Ben Hughes these little delicacies, also known as fried rolls, egg rolls or crispy rolls (not the chocolate sweets in your local corner shop), then boy you've got a treat in store! With a sweet chilli dip or ginger soy to compliment the dish, this makes the perfect starter for our Chinese themed menu.

In the past I remember seeing massive spring rolls the size of fat ice poles in Chinese take outs and chips shops... Nahh.

Authentic spring rolls should be crisp on the outside yet soft and aromatic in the centre and finished

08 Amor Spring 2014

within 3 bites which also makes it a great finger food.

INGREDIENTS FOR FILLING: 1/2 head of cabbage (shredded) 2 large carrots (julienne) 300g vermicelli noodles (soaked then cut into about the size of your finger) 4 spring onions (chopped) 2 cloves garlic (minced) 3 tbs soy sauce 1/2 tsp sesame oil 2 tbs cooking oil salt and white pepper to taste

THE WRAP: Spring roll pastry (you can find them in most oriental stores) Plain flour and water to form a paste (to seal the spring rolls) METHOD: Stir-fry all the filling ingredients together with the cooking oil on medium heat until half cooked. Season, taste and add sesame oil last.

Set aside to cool down completely.

THE ROLL: Position the pastry in a diamond shape towards you, placing a portion of the filling just below the centre. Make sure that it does not stretch out to the sides. Make your first fold ensuring it is tight.

Roll and fold over the sides.

Apply a touch of the flour paste and stick.

For best results chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before frying.

INGREDIENTS: 1 bowl of cooked jasmine rice 1 large egg beaten with a few drops of soy sauce 1 spring onion finely chopped salt, white pepper and soy sauce for seasoning (to your taste) 2tbs cooking oil

The question is how??

The answer is: Leftover cooked jasmine rice!!

THE PERFECT EGG FRIED RICE

So basically the secret to a successful fried rice every time, without it being too soggy or dry, is to use rice that has been left to cool down completely - preferably fridge temperature.

Jasmine rice I find has the best result compared to long grain or basmati rice. It has a slight stickiness to it when wok fried and stays moist.

METHOD: Heat oil in wok until it starts smoking. Pour in the beaten egg and scramble like mad for a few seconds. Only cook the eggs half way then chuck in the rice and continue to stir-fry while seasoning for a few minutes. Add in the

spring onions and give it a final toss. Then serve straight away.

I like mine with a sunny side up quail egg (optional)

Amor Spring 2014 09

HEALTH

STIR-FRY KING PRAWNS WITH GINGER AND SPRING ONIONS I often get asked what’s the best way to prepare a prawn stir-fry?

Straightaway ginger and spring onions pop into mind, the fresh ginger adds an incredible zing to this dish and will definitely have your guests amazed. This dish is all about the prep, no need to marinade the king prawns as we want a clean and crisp taste. It should only take a few minutes in the wok. Have a nice amount of sauce to spoon over your rice.

INGREDIENTS: 100g raw king prawns (peeled) Fresh ginger sliced into matchsticks 2 spring onions chopped into chunky strips 2 garlic cloves sliced 1 tsp oyster sauce 1 tsp soy sauce 1/4 tsp of dark soy sauce

10 Amor Spring 2014

1/2 tsp of salt 1 tsp of honey 2 tbs of cooking oil 100ml of vegetable stock and a selection of veggies of your choice (optional) METHOD: Heat the wok and oil on medium heat and add in the garlic, ginger and the white part of the spring onions.

Let it sizzle for 30 seconds then notch up the heat to maximum, adding the King Prawns.

Cook half way then add in all the seasoning and work that stir-fry technique! Make sure that all the flavours are incorporated.

Lastly add in the vegetable stock and reduce heat to half. Chuck in the green parts of the spring onions and give it a last toss and there you have it... DIY Chinese!

Keratin – Natural Hair Products info@thehairandcosmetic.co.uk

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HEALTH

HEALTH A-Z

We at Amor aim to provide articles that will not only entertain but also educate. So in a bid to enlighten, we have decided to feature a series of “A – Z Women’s Health” articles. Whether it be acne, breast cancer, pregnancy or simply fitness and nutrition, we aim to cover as many topics as possible. Why not follow us - through the alphabet?

(Previous letters can be found in back issues online)

G Genital Herpes What is herpes?

H

Who is affected?

It is more common in women than men as infections can easily develop where there are warm moist conditions.

However, it is highly contagious and can spread easily between partners through sexual or even close contact.

Symptoms

with anti-viral agents which will shorten the infection period and stop the blisters from spreading.

What if I’m pregnant?

Vaginal delivery is not advised as the virus could be passed onto the baby, so a caesarian section would be necessary.

Cure

erpes is simply Some symptoms of genital The herpes virus is one which is considered to the inflammation herpes include blisters be incurable. The nature of the skin and mucus on the vulva, anus and of the disease is not membranes along with upper thighs. It is very a constant stream of sore blisters. This virus likely to include a fever attacks. It goes through has two categories; and swollen glands in phases where it is active herpes simplex 1 and the groin along with and inactive. herpes simplex 2. The So once the aforementioned former causes cold symptoms. Genital herpes contracted it remains in the body forever. sores on the nose and may also cause dysuria Risks mouth areas etc. It is pain when urinating.

Genital herpes increases a reoccurring virus Treatment the risk of cervical cancer. but can be treated Blisters will appear with anti-viral creams. anywhere between 3-20 Ladies, we at Amor stress the importance of regular The latter of the two, days after the body is cervical smear tests! herpes simplex 2, infected and will become Words: Jan-Marie affects the genitals.

Revers painful. It can be treated

12 Amor Spring 2014

h A

Hysterectomy

hysterectomy is a common operation to remove the womb (uterus) with one in five women opting to undergo the procedure.

Hysterectomies are usually the final option after less invasive therapy, but many women choose to have a hysterectomy to treat heavy periods, long term pelvic pain, non-cancerous tumours and various cancers, such as ovarian, uterine, cervical or cancer in the fallopian tubes.

A total hysterectomy requires the removal of the womb and cervix, whereas a subtotal hysterectomy only removes the womb but leaves the cervix in place. A total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingooophorectomy involves removing the womb, cervix, fallopian tubes and the ovaries, and a radical hysterectomy removes the womb and surrounding tissues, the fallopian tubes, part of the vagina, ovaries,

lymph glands and fatty tissue.

There are three ways of carrying out these various hysterectomies.

Vaginal hysterectomy involves removing the womb after a small incision to the top of the vagina.

An abdominal hysterectomy removes the womb after a small incision into the abdomen. Keyhole surgery is another method, where the womb is removed after a few tiny incisions into the abdomen.

A hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure and patients are advised to rest and prepare for a recovery period of six to eight weeks. Patients are usually hospitalised for up to five days and are advised not to lift anything heavy and to avoid bending too much, as the abdominal muscles and tissue need time to repair.

Surgical menopause

can occur if the patient is premenopausal (still has regular periods) before the operation, since the removal of the womb prompts the onset of the menopause. Surgical menopause usually occurs within five years of the operation, if not immediately afterwards. Once the menopause begins the patient should be offered HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) which can help relieve some of the symptoms of the menopause.

Words: Rachael Kitson

Amor Spring 2014 13

HEALTH

I

Infertility

What is it?

I

nfertility is the inability to conceive.

However, subfertility is more common than the extreme of infertility. Subfertility is where couples find it increasingly difficult to conceive.

Who can it affect?

It can affect both men and women.

Causes

There are three main causes of female infertility.

1. The most common of all is the failure to ovulate. This can be because of damaged ovaries, lack of eggs or hormonal problems.

2. An imbalance in the levels of hormones after conception.

3. Problems with the structure of the fallopian tubes. They could be damaged or blocked, which may be caused by previous surgery or the inflammation and / or infection of the pelvic region.

14 Amor Spring 2014

Treatment If the issue is lack of eggs or failure to ovulate, there is a likelihood of this being successfully treated with fertility drugs.

Hormonal imbalance can also be treated similarly.

However, if the problem is with the fallopian tubes or uterus, detection would be through ultrasound scans, lapararoscopy, ovulation tests or a hysterosalpinogram.

The treatment received then depends on the nature of the problem detected.

Research According to research carried out by The Family Medical Series (Women’s Health, 2001), infertility is divided equally between male and female partners. With 30% accountable to men, 30% to women and 40% to underlying factors in both

partners.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and artificial insemination are two commonly selected options when faced with infertility.

Words: Jan-Marie Revers @JMRevers

Eczema E

czema is a distressing and irritating skin condition that can make people very self-conscious, as the rash can be darker than a person’s usual skin colour and can also be raised or have a specific pattern. Eczema also tends to appear in specific places on the body; on the face, around the eyes, in the ears, as well as behind the elbows and knees. Eczema is always itchy and can progress to a weeping form, which can result in a bacterial or fungal infection.

Eczema can be a reaction to a toxic substance e.g. hairdressers often get eczema after years of handling chemicals or using latex gloves.

Eczema can be caused by side effects from certain medications, particularly immunosuppressant medicines used in chemotherapy, which can cause a severe reaction.

Conventional treatment is with popular creams to moisten (emollients), prevent itching (antihistamines) or combat infections (antibiotics or antifungals). Also, immune suppressants can be used to stop the body’s reaction to itching.

All of these treatments address the symptoms but not the causes.

Some of the emollient creams will contain Parabens, which is now recognised as a problematic substance as it has been found in large concentrations in breast tumours.

Herbal treatment looks at the whole person and addresses the underlying condition. With eczema the cause

can be directly related to your gut health and ability to absorb amino acids, especially if it is not due to environmental factors nor another underlying condition. Gut health is significant in eczema and a medical herbalist may well advise you to improve your diet by avoiding dairy and wheat products and eating a diet that includes probiotics and essential fatty acids.

Herbalists use Glycyrrhiza glabra (Liquorice) or Stellaria media (Chickweed) creams to stop inflammation and itching and help calm the skin. Avena sativa (Oats) can be really helpful for children’s itchy skin as well as weeping eczema conditions.

Just put some oats in a clean sock and run the bath through a tied-up sock.

Traditional internal remedies include Arctium lappa (Burdock), Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion), Galium aparine (Cleavers) and Trifolium pratense (Red Clover), which help the liver and digestion.

Words : Jane Placca The Manchester Herbalist themanchesterherbalist@yahoo.com

Amor Spring 2014 15

HEALTH

How to keep those ‘Fitness’ New Year’s Resolutions... all year long!

choices about the foods you eat throughout the whole year. Here is a website to help: www.nutrition.org. uk/healthyliving/ healthyeating

By Personal Trainer Louise Munro Activation Personal Training @ACTivation_PT

2

014 is here and most of us with good intentions will have made New Year’s Resolutions to get fit, lose weight, tone up and be healthy this year. But after a few months it’s a promise that a lot of people will have forgotten about, lost their focus on, or given up completely. So this year, I’m here to help with 10 tips to keep you motivated throughout the whole of 2014.

1

Choose Healthy Eating over Dieting

Diets don’t work, healthy eating does. Think of it as a life change - more fruit and veg, low GI carbs instead of high GI carbs, less sugars, healthy amounts of protein and good fats like Omega 3. You are what you eat. A healthy diet, plus exercise, makes your body function like clockwork. The right foods are fuel for our wonderful bodies to work efficiently. Bad food means your body has to work extra hard to break it down and of course too much fat will cause weight gain. Learn to make healthy

16 Amor Spring 2014

2

Drink more Water

Drinking water helps maintain the balance of your body fluids which is composed of about 60% water. The functions of these fluids include digestion, absorbtion, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients and maintenance of body temperature. Also water can help control calories. While water doesn’t have any magical effect on weight loss, opting for water rather than higher calorie beverages can certainly help.

Water also helps energise your muscles, exercise your kidneys, maintain normal bowel function and keeps skin looking good – so drink water all year round!

3

Exercise with a Personal Trainer or a Friend

Working out with a personal trainer to get you kick-started is a great idea. They can help keep you motivated and give you an exercise programme specific to your individual goals. If you can’t afford a personal trainer then it is a great idea to work out with a friend instead, as they challenge you when you need to be challenged and support you when you feel weak.

Working out for the vast majority of the population is a chore that could so easily be avoided, so combining it with catch-up time alongside your friends will make it more fun and more likely that you will actually participate.

4

Find Aerobic Exercises you like doing

To stay healthy, adults aged 18-64 should try to be active daily and should do 2 1/2 hours (5 x 30 minutes / week) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as cycling or fast walking OR 1 1/4 hours (3 x 25 mins / week) of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity such as running.

However not everyone likes cycling or running and that’s ok...

There are plenty of other heart racing activities you can try – how

about dancing, a Zumba class, skipping, football or martial arts? If you get bored doing one type of exercise, change to another like swimming, water aerobics or tennis. For more ideas on types of aerobic exercises ask your local gym what they offer or email me at ptlouisemunro@yahoo.com for exercises you can try at home.

5

Find Strength Training you like doing

To stay healthy, adults aged 18-64 should try to be active daily and should do musclestrengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms). If you are really into toning and/or weight-training, great, but if not, this can be daunting. So maybe give a personal trainer a try or a body pump class, or even Yoga? There are various muscle-strengthening exercises you can do yourself at home if you don’t fancy the gym - like press-ups, sit-ups, leg raises, squats, lunges and bicep curls using artificial weights like baked bean tins.

6

REMEMBER TO REST

Train hard but don’t overdo it. If you are injured or ill, remember to rest. If injured then also seek advice from a physio who will suggest the right strengthening exercises. If ill with something like the flu, then it is your body’s way of saying stop!

Let your body recover and then take it slowly on your first day back in training. If you don’t rest then injuries/sickness can get worse which puts your training off for longer. However when you are healthy, the more you exercise, eat healthily, get the right vitamins and enough sleep, then the less colds you will get. Also remember to get the right amount of rest between weight

Amor Spring 2014 17

HEALTH training sessions. Rest is one of, if not the most important part of any weight-training programme. Your body doesn’t actually build muscle during a workout; the opposite actually happens. Your muscle tissue breaks down during a resistance-training workout.

It’s during the rest period between workouts that your muscle tissue repairs itself, causing an increase in muscle size. So make sure you’re not working the same muscle groups two days in a row.

because then you also eat some fruit like raspberries, apples and oranges too. Yum! If you want a beer try a Guinness rather than lager because Guinness has more whole grains in it and is full of nutrients. If you’re looking for the lowest calorie alcohol then try something like a vodka soda. But if you can, stick to water or a fruit juice, which are of course much better for you!

Fill your fridge with fruits, Have a wedding vegetables, salad and healthy proteins like salmon, coming up? Going on holiday? Have eggs, turkey etc. Fill your cupboards with a film premiere? Have a hot date? To whole-grain rice and lovely low GI foods keep yourself motivated give yourself like sweet potatoes. Throw the biscuits little goals. Remember why you want in the bin or better yet, don’t buy them to get fit and look good in the first in the first place. Another tip is don’t go place. If general fitness is your goal, shopping hungry or you’ll buy comfort why not enter a marathon or take up foods. Go shopping after breakfast or martial arts so you have something to lunch and then you’ll make more sensible work towards? It’s much choices. easier for us to stay focused Forgive yourself on specific goals rather than just a general desire for Try to be healthy every day something vague. If you don’t make a lifestyle change! However have any goals at the moment if you have the occasional then maybe think of some fun ‘unhealthy’ day then forgive yourself things to put in your diary, such we’re all human. Don’t beat yourself up as knowing you have to fit into about it or you’ll be more likely to think a bikini for a fabulous holiday at ‘sod it’ and have another unhealthy day. A the end of the year, or a certain little treat once a week won’t do anyone dress for a party next month. any harm if it stops you over-indulging This might help keep you focused. during the other days. Even if you have a

7

Give yourself Want to fit into Goals a certain dress?

9

Fill your fridge with healthy foods

10

8

Drink less Not only does alcohol alcohol dehydrate

you, it’s also just dead calories. So if you can, cut down on alcohol. If you really do want a drink, try a small glass of red wine which at least has antioxidants in it or even better, try Sangria

18 Amor Spring 2014

really bad day, still forgive yourself. That was yesterday but today I’ll be healthy!

Remember this year we’re going for a lifestyle change not a fad diet that doesn’t work, so find exercises you like, a personal trainer/class/friend, goals to keep you motivated and healthy foods that you like.

Good Luck! Let’s have a healthy, happy 2014!

SKIN RE-VAMP: How to get radiant skin for Spring after the long cold grey Winter!

A

1

We all know it – exfoliating helps boost radiance as it removes all dead cells and toxins on the skin surface. Also it allows much better absorption of the active ingredients of the skincare applied subsequently.

3

Apply a fluid serum – one that contains Vitamin C - to energise and brighten your complexion as well as boosting cellular regeneration. It is renowned to be a powerful antioxidant, therefore protecting against oxidative stress (due to a hectic lifestyle, bad diet etc.)

2

Apply a hydrating mask. Choose one that is deeply moisturising and has a gel-cream texture for an instant quenching effect, hence radiance-boosting. As a beauty tip, put your mask in the fridge at least 30 minutes before application for an ice-cold effect. Luminous complexion is guaranteed!

4

Change your rich nourishing cream to a lighter version, preferably with good protection – either with an SPF of 15 or one packed with anti-oxidants.

5

Since we are what we eat, we ought to start a little detox diet. To be honest, I am very bad at following any diets, so the only thing I can do for a week is to kick start the day with warm water and lemon juice!

Amor Spring 2014 21

Words By Kristèle Ng Man Sun

t the end of Winter, the cold weather always seems to drag on longer! I start to feel impatient, waiting to tuck away my heavy coats and get my lighter, more colourful clothes out!

Usually our complexion often looks as grey as Winter has been… so what are the beauty rituals and tips to get back our healthy flush?

BEAUTY

VALENTINE’S GIFTS FOR THE MAN IN YOUR LIFE – MEN’S GROOMING Men need to be groomed too!

If you are out of ideas for a Valentine’s Day gift then maybe try one of these beauty gift ideas?

Words : Patricia Obaro Odje Beauty Editor CLINIQUE Great Skin For Him Skincare Gift Set RRP £30.00 This set contains: Post-Shave Healer 35ml, Anti-Fatigue Cooling Eye Gel 5ml, Face Scrub 100ml, M Lotion 100ml

JOHN LEWIS Gentlemen’s Grooming Essentials Kit £25.00 This set contains: Mirror, Comb, Nail File, Razor with Blade and Mini Knife, Travel Clothes Cleaner, Shoehorn, Travel Toothbrush, Scissors, Tweezers, Nail clippers

TOM FORD Noir Eau de Parfum Fragrance Gift Set, 50ml £80.00 This Set contains: Noir Eau de Parfum 50ml, After Shave Balm 75ml

22 Amor Spring 2014

HOT MAKEUP LOOKS FOR V’s DAY!

M

y personal favourite look for the romantic holiday is simple yet effective. A slick line of black or brown eyeliner across the top lid really brings out the colour of your eyes, one of the first things a guy will notice about you, especially with lashings of mascara. Add a pop of bright red lipstick to the look to remind him of passion and love. Rimmel Lasting Finish 01 by Kate Moss, is a personal favourite.

Taylor Swift has this look done to perfection, so look to her for tips.

Another bold look you could add is a gold element to the eyes, shimmering eye shadow that will bring warmth to both your complexion and the cold Spring air. Dust MAC Eye-shadow in Nylon or Goldmine along your top and lower lash line before adding eyeliner.

Match with a light pink or nude lipstick so not to drag the attention away from your peepers, just like Beyoncé.

For those of you who want a more natural look with a laid back feel, look to beach babes like Naomie Harris with minimal makeup with big effect!

Try just a dusting of your favourite eye shadow with beige or white colour dabbed in the corner to make them stand out. Add a glowing, healthy tan and moisturising lip balm in some fantastic flavour that he might just get a taste of later in the evening! Pair with big beautiful waves in the hair department and you’re all set.

Words : Ellen Simmons

The Perfect V-Day Outfit Look #1: The Classic LBD

Whether you’re out for a hot date, heading to town with your girlfriends, or off to the classiest restaurants in the city with your loved ones, we have an outfit for each and every setting.

Words: Folasade Johnson

Rock a sassy and chic but classic and simple black dress. Ideal for that all rounded perfect date. Add your favourite silver bangles and dangly earrings. Finish off your look with these killer wedges you’ve been dying to wear since Christmas to brighten up your outfit!

Look #2: The Simple Stylish Effect Cheeky cocktails with the gals?

Why not throw on a pair of light blue ripped skinnys and a long sleeved white top? Lace up a pair of ankle wrapped sandals, ultra stylish yet sophisticated.

Glide through your makeup counter and glamorise your look a lil with a pair of fake lashes. Then lastly amp up your finished ensemble with a stylish silver chocker.

Amor Spring 2014 23

BEAUTY

Bushy is back!

W

ith

thicker brows being all the rage at the moment, Ms Delevingne’s luxurious pair is in high demand.

Angelina Jolie has even followed suit, ditching the thin brows she donned in the past for a much thicker brow.

For us girls who’ve been blessed with thicker brows, we’ve all been the victim of a beautician who has been asked to ‘tidy up’ our brows and leave us looking like a newly fleeced rabbit!

For those who were born with brows of a more sparse nature, Amor has a few suggestions for getting your brows in tip-top shape this Spring:

1. Brush your brows so that the

start of the brow is vertical. Gradually brush the rest of the brow in an outward fashion, aiming at a point between the top of your head and your ears.

Using a matching eyebrow pencil, fill in your brow with short, light

2.

24 Amor Spring 2014

(and finally attainable…)

strokes to create a fuller appearance.

The start of each brow should be in line with the inner corner of your eye.

The end of the brow should extend slightly past the outer end of your eye.

A great way to elongate the appearance of your eye is to extend the brow even further, a-la Natalie Portman.

Coat your flat-tipped eye-shadow brush with foundation that is one shade lighter than your skin tone.

Trace it around each brow to create the desired shape.

Use a clean foundation brush to blend in the foundation around your eyes.

Follow with a clear brow set gel to hold everything in place!

3.

4.

5.

But don’t be over zealous with your pencil this Spring – it’s highly unlikely that the mono-brow will ever be chic!

Words : Raeesa Essack

OUR SPRING BEAUTY TRENDSETTERS!

N

icole Scherzinger and Ciara were both influential women in 2013 showcasing their beauty style and make-up.

Nicole’s appearance as a judge on X Factor 2013 gave fans a treat, as the star put together a range of glamorous

outfits, updos and dramatic make-up, for the show. From a classic smoky eye and vampy lips, to natural eyes with a splash of colour, Nicole has covered a wide range of makeup trends. Right from the start of the August X Factor auditions, Nicole took her makeup inspiration straight from the catwalk, matching her dress with a striking cobalt liner on her bottom lashes, teamed with a nude lip and orange nails. She then went on to wow audiences during the final rounds, stepping out in a Jessica Rabbit style scarlet sequin gown by Ziad Nakad, with bright berry lips and smoky eyes. A nod to last year’s Goth Glam trend. For the Disco week results, it was all about the hair as she looked beautiful in an 80s style bob updo and a red matte pout. Finally, at the X Factor finale, she stole the show again in a plunging floorlength silver dress with sheer panels, from British designer Julien Macdonald, along with false lashes, smoky eyes and a nude lip. The

Nicole Scherzinger

After

Before

star is now rumoured to be in talks with Missguided to create her own brand based on her X Factor style. The collection is set to feature a range of long gowns and revealing dresses inspired by Nicole.

Just as Nicole has been trying out a variety of looks, Ciara meanwhile has also gone through a dramatic style transformation last year. Summer 2013 saw the singer cut off her long dark locks in favour of a gorgeous sun-kissed brown and blonde ombre bob cut.

Ombre was a huge trend last year and Ciara certainly rocked it, keeping the look fresh with her different take on the style, using blunt bob cuts and blends of colours to make a statement.

Her style evolved further after her engagement in October to rapper Future, as she stepped out at the November AMAs in a seethrough J Mendel noir graphic lace embroidered gown and sleek cropped blonde bob.

We’ve seen a lot of evolving looks from these two ladies last year, which we can guarantee will result in a lot of onlookers trying to mimic their trends this Spring.

Words : Araminta Pender

Ciara

Amor Spring 2014 25

BEAUTY

BEAUTY & FASHION EVENTS 2014

Words : Jasmin Woodward

LONDON FASHION WEEK

LONDON FASHION WEEK DATE: Friday 14th –Tuesday 18th February 2014 LOCATION: LONDON! (Varies)

A week full of best high fashion! We should all know what this is!

PLUS SIZE FASHION WEEKEND

BPSFW – PLUS SIZE FASHION WEEKEND DATE: 15th February 2014 LOCATION: Vinopolis Winery in London Bridge, London

The whole beauty industry comes together, with over 600 leading brands, with guest speakers and champagne receptions.

Celebrating the curves of the UK in one weekend, 13 UK and European designers showcase their collections with brands such as Evans, and Simply Be.

DIVAS OF COLOUR

PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY

The first ever gathering of the world’s powerful women of colour!

Catwalk shows, Talks, Music Performances and more!

DATE: 23rd - 24th February 2014 LOCATION: ExCel London

26 Amor Spring 2014

DATE: International Women’s Day – 22nd March 2014 LOCATION: Hilton Hotel Tower Bridge, London

BLOGGERS FASHION WEEK DATE: March 24th - 26th 2014 LOCATION: London! (RSVP info out soon!)

A chance for bloggers to showcase their talent in their own fashion week!

Are you a blogger? Follow @Bloggers_Love for more info!

DIVAS OF COLOUR

BLEURIBBON HAIR!

Words : Patricia Obaro Odje Beauty Editor

N

owadays, you can’t go anywhere on Twitter or Instagram without seeing a hair company advertising virgin hair! We caught up with one of the leading hair companies Bleuribbon!

They have a strong team of 17 ambassadors globally, including Yandy Smith from ‘Love & HipHop’! So, of course I was very pleased when they offered to send me some of their lovely virgin Malaysian hair for a review!

First thing’s first, PACKAGING. I was sent the hair in a beauty hair box with the Bleuribbon hair logo on it, along

with a thank you letter.

Immediately I was impressed because this is so professional! I have ordered virgin hair previously from hair companies and have not experienced as much customer care as this!

This hair is literally AMAZING! It has a natural glow to it without needing any additional serum or hair moisturizer. I have not even had it installed for that long and people are already noticing the quality! The wefts are thick enough so they don’t shed as often, yet not too thick so the tracks can be doubled up at the bottom, without anyone breaking their fingers!

The hair has a natural dark brown colour, which I thought was going to be a problem because my hair is jet black, but it blended in really well!

It was slightly static when first installed so I applied some straight hair serum so it did not feel dry, but after that I’ve left it and it has been fine!

I straightened the hair one evening before a night out and it stayed straight for 6 hours, even running around and of course dancing! I got SOO hot but my hair did not lose its straightness.

To protect my Malaysian hair from heat I apply some heat protector before I use my straighteners. This ensures the hair does not get damaged and will definitely last longer. I also limit the amount of products I put on my hair so it does not look greasy!

I was told some people have kept Bleuribbon hair for ages, I do not doubt that for a second!

Thanks Bleuribbon!

Check out my FULL interview with the Bleuribbon team on our website NOW! amormagazine.co.uk

BEAUTY The ‘wet look’ has transformed Keeping it Slick... this Spring from being hard edged and sculpted to an easily wearable grunge high street look with punch. This can be achieved by using creams and oils to make hair appear softer and pliable, instead of appearing overly structured.

The bulk of product should be used through the surface and roots of hair to keep locks in place and slicked back. Lighter texturing products can be used at the ends to allow movement with slight back-combing to add volume.

The Wet Look

Spring Hair Trends Words : Jacqueline

Du'ven

Tied in Knots

Simple and classic, this season’s take on ‘the bun’ can be created this Spring with minimal product, piled high on top of heads for a sultry 90s vibe. On wet or dry hair apply a smoothing product of your choice and tip hair upside down, using fingers or a brush.

Pull the hair together into a high ponytail.

Then wrap the tail around the base and secure tightly with hair grips. Spritz a small amount of hairspray to keep flyaways in place. To add ‘organised mess’ rub the palm of hands gently around the bun to give it a more textured, roughed up appearance.

28 Amor Spring 2014

Tousled locks, ponytails, and natural waves scream effortless chic this Spring, embracing the natural textures of hair and going against the grain of perfectly formed hairstyles. This Spring there are no rules, boundaries or mistakes. Hair can be smoother at the front and messy at the back or smoother on top and wavier at the ends.

This year is all about releasing the natural side to locks which should always have a fresh quality that does not look too overdone or polished.

To give natural texture, a leave-in conditioning spray or a texture mousse will do the trick!

Textured & Tousled

Accessorise Accessories Accessorise!

Scrunchies, floral clips, and thick headbands are back with a swing this Spring.

These can be added to any hairstyle, whether that is flowers in high buns or ponytails, delicate clips in side partings or intricate floral bands to weave in and out of hair. This year is all about experimenting with simplicity, by using the tool of the accessory to enhance the natural look and condition of those tresses.

Braid It Out! To give a delicate festival inspired feel to hair, braid crowns will keep locks out of faces and necks during warmer months, which is a brilliant way to keep cool and on trend.

With a fashion nod to artist Frida Kahlo, this look is reminiscent of an older time with a modern twist.

Amor Spring 2014 29

BEAUTY

BRAIDS: GOTTA LOVE ‘EM! Words by: Patricia Obaro Odje, Beauty Editor

I was so much in love with this hairstyle during A/W 2013 and believe it is going to remain my obsession for 2014!

B

raids are great for black hair and ensure that damaged hair from various weave hairstyles grows back effectively. Braids are also great for maintaining healthy hair!

As a young black woman I believe that it is important to

30 Amor Spring 2014

embrace your culture!

It is not always about having westernised hairstyles (silky weave extensions), try African inspired ones too! I certainly embrace mine... I love how braids are now becoming more popular as the seasons go by – they look FAB!

The initial growth spurt during the first few weeks of installing braids is noticeable then during subsequent weeks the hair grows at a normal pace.

Why do I love braids?

Because not only are they always trendy

but they make it so much easier to get ready in the morning - you literally just get up and go!

all up, half up, wrapped etc. Here are a few ideas for you if you choose braids!

STYLES There are so many ways to style braids!

They can be

This style is a classic!

You’ll never go wrong with this one!

This is my most common hairstyle when I have braids because it is easy, light and does not drag my side hairs. It gets all the hair out of your face without having to tie it all up!

MAINTENANCE 1. Wrap your braids EVERY DAY when you sleep. Not just when you feel like it!

It is obvious how to tell the difference between people who wrap their hair (or not) by just looking at the edges! Rough edges? A big NO NO! I tie a bandana around my edges, then a second scarf around the back and all my plaits are rolled up within a hair net.

When I had my hair up this way, apparently I was following Salonge’s hairstyle? Never noticed! I fell into this way of bunning my hair when I was trying to get all the hair up one night before I slept!

2. Every week as your braids continue to grow, use Africa’s Best Olive Oil Foam Wrap Lotion every Sunday before you sleep. The foam sets the edges of your hair together with the bits of braids that are starting to look a bit rough! I have been able to keep my braids in for nearly two months and my edges remain neat! (Found in all Afro-Carribean cosmetic shops across the UK).

3. Grease your scalp every few days because it is constantly exposed to the wind so it is bound to get dry!

Try Doo Gro Oil. There are different kinds depending on which one suits your hair. I tend to get an itchy scalp so I use the Doo Grow Anti Itch Oil. (Found in all AfroCarribean cosmetic shops across the UK).

Amor Spring 2014 31

BEAUTY

1. Aussie Miracle Recharge MoistureLightweight Conditioning Spray 250ml £4.49

This Spring ‘must-have’ will hydrate and give thirsty tresses a refreshing and nourishing drink! Spritz Aussie’s new moisture lock-in and leavein conditioning spray evenly on wet or dry hair and comb through for a soft luscious finish.

Top 10

Make Up Beauty Products 3. Limited Edition No 3 Vaseline Paint The Town Red Lip Tint 20g £3.49 Instead of layering on lipgloss and lipstick, this red lip tint from Vaseline gives lips a natural red pout topped off with a delicate sheen. This little number is perfect for keeping lips hydrated and kissable.

32 Amor Spring 2014

Words : Jacqueline Du’ven

4. Boots Vitamin E Gentle Eye Cream SPF 15 15ml £2.54

2. Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer ‘Luminizing’ (Oil Free) 30ml £28.00 Perfect for the Spring to Summer months, this photo finish primer will give skin a radiant natural glow that glides beautifully onto skin due to its thin consistency, allowing skin to breathe. Wearable on its own or under foundation, this versatile ‘Luminizing’ primer with a subtle hint of colour, fills in fine lines and can be used as a highlight and contouring tool to accentuate hollows of cheeks.

A small amount goes a long way with this Vitamin E Eye Cream from Boots own range. Apply a smidge under and over the delicate eye area.

Protecting the skin around the eyes from the sun with SPF 15 during the day, this light, non-greasy, quick absorbing eye cream helps to reduce puffiness, dark circles and fine lines to keep eyes looking younger and healthier in just four weeks.

6. French Connection Eye shadows Collection £12.00

5. Seventeen Phwoarr Paint-Fair £5.49 After a heavy night Seventeen ‘Phwoarr Paint’ will combat any signs of fatigue and pre night carnage.

Pat this rich, creamy concealer gently under the eye area until it blends into skin evenly. Build until unwanted dark circles are banished to achieve a flawless, fresh finish.

Tip!

Pat around eyebrows and on the lids of eyes to give a 60s glamour feel to make-up.

Additionally this concealer is a fantastic base for a pop of eye colour!

With 15 sultry colours to mix and match, this eye shadow palette from French Connection can easily create natural daytime and party evening looks at your fingertips.

7. Nivea Pure & Natural Anti Wrinkle Day Cream 50ml £4.99 It’s never too early to combat signs of ageing!

Nivea’s Anti Wrinkle Day Cream will help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving skin feeling fresher, firmer, healthier and smoother.

8. St James Polish Nails inc London 10ml £11.00 A glamorous retro red that will wow nails and dazzle onlookers. An ideal accessory with any outfit!

9. MUA Blush Perfection Cream Blusher-Dolly £2.00 Add to the tops of cheekbones for a subtle glow. This cream blush will give cheeks a hint of colour that is perfect for any natural daytime make-up look.

This gorgeously vibrant lippy from TopShop gives the look of volume to lips and contrasts perfectly with all skin tones. Its fantastic orange/red 10. Top Shop Infrared pigment is sure to last throughout the day (only Lipstick-Orange Red warranting a few retouches), providing a silky £8.00 nourishing finish that can be worn during the day and built up for a more dramatic look in the evening. A perfect Spring/Summer colour!

Amor Spring 2014 33

An Evening of Spring

Credits Model : Mierous Hennessy Creative Director : Wardah Sempa Styled By: Umika Verma Make Up : Elle Iman Photography : Phoebe Cheong

Credits Model : Mierous Hennessy Creative Director : Wardah Sempa Styled By: Umika Verma Make Up : Elle Iman Photography : Phoebe Cheong

Credits Model : Mierous Hennessy Creative Director : Wardah Sempa Styled By: Umika Verma Make Up : Elle Iman Photography : Phoebe Cheong

Yes, pastel shades come back into fashion now and again. Whether it is a mint green or a pale orange shade, pastel colours rock for the Spring/Summer season of course! Forgetting the dark colours of winter and bringing freshness, vibrancy and almost a delicate yet feminine touch to your wardrobe. Either a pale shade on a tailored jacket with tapered trousers, or a plain skater dress, find what works for you with pastel colours. Pastels can work for the majority of us, although if you’re a print lover, you may find this trend a bit difficult…

CropTops: Everybody can be a bit touchy

with the ‘crop top’, but with the right look and skirt or trouser to go with it, there’s nothing wrong with showing a bit of flesh for the warmer months. Also a crop top will compliment an outfit for a night out with the girls on the town. Whichever way you look at it, you can dress up in a crop top with a blazer and smart shoes, or with wedges for a casual going-out look. Getting it right is key, else you could go horrendously sideways…

Lace:

Ah, so we can never go wrong with the ‘lightness of lace’. A material that compliments all seasons of the year beautifully. However, during Spring, we should be focusing on light shades of lace, or deeper tones such as teal or blue. Whether the lace is crocheted or laser cut, lace works - it is a must-have for your wardrobe! Make a statement with a lace shirt and neon jewellery to complete the look. My personal favourite is white lace but then dressing it up with chunky jewellery to complete a ‘feminine grunge’ kind of look together with a statement blazer. It’s up to you how you choose to dress up your lace, but most importantly, have fun with it too!

Most wearable trends for Spring 2014

Pastels:

Available from Topshop.com

Available from Topshop.com

Available from Etsy.com

Words : Catherine Morgan Amor Spring 2014 37

FASHION

It’s about time Amor talked about

Furr!

T Kate Moss modelling

TOPSHOP faux coat

38 Amor Spring 2014

he use of real fur has been highly controversial in the fashion world for decades.

Is it a statement trend, an undesirable luxury, or a horrible reality? American Vogue editor Anna Wintour has consistently been the target of animal rights organisations such as PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), who were angered at her use of fur in Vogue and by how she promoted the entire fur industry. In 1996, an animal rights activist famously served Anna a dead raccoon for her lunch at the Four Seasons! Is this going too far or is this justified?

In the animal farming industry, living conditions of animals do vary but the extreme cases create much controversy.

According to PETA the majority of fur farmers pack animals into small cages, preventing them from even moving a few

Anna Winto

ur

steps during their lifetime.

Supermodel Kate Moss has popularised many fashion accessories such as ballet flats, Ugg boots, Vivienne Westwood pirate boots and Alexander McQueen skull scarfs. However, she was still added to PETA’s ‘Worst-Dressed’ celebrities list in 2008 because she frequently wore fur.

However, ASOS, H&M, Topshop, and several other High Street stores have recently banned the use of Angora products after a video exposing the cruelty that rabbits suffered went viral online, a video released by PETA. So does the fashion industry care about what customers want? Because even though these stores have banned the use of some fur products, luxury brands have not. This shows that there are many people out there who aren’t fazed by the animal cruelty involved, being more interested in the product/

THIS SEASON’S SPRING FASHION TRENDS “MUST HAVE”!

Lady Gaga

BOMBER JACKETS! trend itself.

Designers such as Chanel, Oscar De La Renta, Michael Kors and Prada (among many others) have used real fur products in their magazine campaigns. This has caused heavy controversy, as anti-fur activists believe that fur has become a trend again because of these marketing campaigns.

In early 2013, London department store Harvey Nichols’ fashion director, Paula Reed, resigned from her position in the wake of anti-fur controversy. Harvey Nichols famously had an anti-fur policy until Reed reintroduced fur products to the store.

This is a prime example of how activists do have an influence on fashion and whether fur should be sold. Is it something that should be recognised as a cruel and immoral trend? Or is it a luxury trend that will be around for years to come? After all, fur has been around for a long time already…

Words: Katie Tsappas

These stylish layered pieces get edgier for the Spring, with bold colourful prints and sporty cool detailing! The bomber jacket is very versatile and will complement your outfit!

Words : Wardah Sempa Fashion Editor

FLORAL EMBROIDERED BOMBER JACKET TOPSHOP £35.00

TROPICAL PRINT JERSEY BOMBER JACKET TOPSHOP £50.00

BOUTIQUE IMOGEN ROSE BROCADE BOMBER JACKET BOOHOO (NZ $40)

Amor Spring 2014 39

!

FASHION

Bags

Bags

Bags

Words : Wardah Sempa, Fashion Editor

Classic designer bags 2.

Michael Kors -

1. Saint Laurent – ‘Classic Baby Duffle In Earth Leather’ £695 I’m sure some of you Amorelles are in need of a duffle bag? You can never go wrong with a duffle bag, especially when it is made out of leather!

Saint Laurent is the “mother” at producing classy chic bags!

for less than

£1000!

‘Medium Selma TopZip Grommet Satchel’

£230 Michael Kors’ bags have been in trend forever! So why not go a little crazy by securing a glamorous chic bag? You’d think it would be difficult to purchase a decent priced Michael Kors bag, but fear not – we’ve found one at a reasonable price! You can purchase this long lasting, designer bag, which looks cute!

40 Amor Spring

3. Marc Jacobs –

‘Plaid Show Group Rosie’ £320 How could I NOT add a Marc Jacobs bag since the bag gives off nothing but a funky and vibrant feel, especially in bad weather?

4. Prada

- ‘Saffiano Leather Mini Bag’

So it Prada’s never cheap, but i to o s possib le, wn a for the price this bag is, it is c desi gner lassic definitely worth a look. The Check out bag with out the chic mini blue and gold colour elevates s p thou endi sa n bag by Prada. the bag to a whole different ( than nds on i g t k me We all know level! late r)!

2014

£600

5. Gucci – ‘Soho

Patent Leather Shoulder Bag’ £595

6. Louis Vuitton -

‘Neverfull MM’ -

£585 Louis Vuitton has the most classic designer bags ever! This is a classic print bag, which straightaway appeals to a woman with an appreciation of fashion. But actually it is an “everyday” bag which can be used at any location! Why not!?

9. Mulberry ‘Bayswater Bag’

£895

Unusual but exclusive fashion is what Gucci does best! A light pink patent leather is no exception. The bag may be small, but still shows off the original Gucci style that we all know best!

7. Dolce & Gabbana – ‘Small

Leopard-Print Sicily Bag’ - £555 The Sicily is one of Dolce & Gabbana’s most elegant designs! The exterior is so priceless and scenic. It’s like carrying a mini work of art on your arm (One of my favourites).

8. Burberry - ‘The Little Crush In Leather and House Check’ - £650 This Burberry clutch is just the cutest thing to carry your stuff in. A little expensive for a cosy-carrier but we love it! Who doesn’t need an exclusive clutch?

What about the traditional Mulberry bag!? Who doesn’t love Mulberry? We’ve had the likes of fashion icon Alexa Chung rock this stylish handbag on a daily basis! This is probably Amor’s most expensive one, but hey - a girl can dream! - You’d better start saving Amorelles!

Let’s not forget the classic Ted This monochrome bag 10. TED BAKER - ‘Janee Baker. not only looks cute on a fun Large Quilted Tote Bag’ night out but could also be used on a daily basis! £104

Amor Spring 2014 41

FASHION

London Fashion Week Returns!

A

fter the epic hectic successful of London Fashion Week in September last year, it is back to celebrate it’s 30th year! London Fashion Week is a clothing trade show held for press, buyers and fashion lovers twice a year at Somerset House in Central London.

The event is first showcased in February showing off their annual Autumn/Winter collection. It then returns back again in mid September to showcase the Spring/Summer collections.

London Fashion Week is one of the ‘Big Four’ fashion weeks, which include New York, Paris and Milan.

This London Fashion Week is from 20th Feb – 23rd Feb. Hundreds of designers, launches, promotions, events and celebrity guests are still yet to be confirmed.

Grab your tickets from the London Fashion Week website starting from £20 or telephone 0207 759 1977 for more information.

See you there and make sure you look out for us!

Words : Folasade Johnson

42 Amor Spring 2014

5 TIPS ON HOW TO PICK THE “PERFECT” BRA With Valentine’s Day round the corner, we can only assume those planning a hot date will be on the look out for a sexy lingerie set too! Sharon at Bloomers Lingerie brings you 5 tips on how to pick out the “perfect” bra...

1. Be open-minded about your size If you’re surprised (or disappointed), remember that the bra size is just a number (and a letter). The proper fit of the bra is the most important part.

2. Know your body type Be aware of your body type so you know what bras to look for. For example, if you are more of a top-heavy “apple” shape, you will likely be looking for fuller coverage bras, not demi-cups.

4. Test If you are buying a sport bra jump up and down to check the bounce! Also the same for strapless - put your hands up to check you won’t pop out of the bra when moving!

5. Be flexible If there’s a bra that you really love but they don’t have your size, it’s usually OK to go up a band size and down a cup size – or vice versa. Not all bands fit the same so you may find you have different sizes.

3. Check transparency Wear or bring a thin T-shirt to the store so you can see what each bra looks like under the sheerest of circumstances. You don’t want any surprises the first time you wear it!

Bloomers Lingerie is giving a chance for a lucky reader to win a bra fitting and lingerie set. To enter please email your name, address and number to; competitions@ amormagazine.co.uk Closing date: 9pm 29th April 2014. Winner announced by 1st May 2014

Sharon@bloomers Bloomers Lingerie, specialising in bra fitting 209 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, London, SE22 8HA, 0208 299 5023

Amor Spring 2014 43

Fashion is not that exists in Fashion is in the street, fashion ideas, the way is happening.

- Coco Chanel

something dresses only. sky, in the has to do with we live, what

COVER STORY

CHECK OUT OUR TELEVISED INTERVIEW WITH LITTLE NIKKI YOUTUBE.COM/AMORMAGAZINE

From the left: Ruby Moore (Editor), Little Nikki, Mya (Presenter) 46 Amor Spring 2014

LITTLE NIKKI

F

earless, fierce and confident are the perfect words to describe West London’s very own rising star, Little Nikki. Known for her infused mixture of sounds, from an exotic bashment vibe to a hip hop zest - Little Nikki is always full of surprises. She creates her own genre of music which makes her an interesting and unique artist to watch out for. Her blend of sound is innovating, electric and exciting which best fits the description of her new anticipated track “Yo Yo”. This upbeat dancehall track is due to be released in March, kick starting the year with a positive vibe.

Starting out in the all-girl group SoundGirl has given Little Nikki the perfect platform and experience she needs to grow in the industry. From co-writing songs for Little Mix, to being the face of Boohoo. com’s Summer campaign, has undoubtedly proven her raw talent. Her stunning single “Little Nikki Says” was featured on the TV advert, mirroring the urban style Boohoo. com represents. The 17-year old singersongwriter has created a buzz across the music scene and has built a dedicated fan base. Not only does she have her admirers “in a spell like a yoyo”, but also has her fans on the dance floor. Her infectious nature, originality and urban style have managed to earn Little Nikki colossal respect within

Amor Spring 2014 47

COVER STORY the industry.

Little Nikki is perhaps the combination of Azealia Banks, Rita Ora and Rihanna all blended into one. However, her originality and energetic attitude makes her different from the rest. At an age of just 17, she has accomplished much more than anticipated and should continue to flourish. The best is yet to come from Little Nikki this year and one thing we cannot deny is that she will certainly keep us all on our feet.

Words : Lolade Hassan

We at Amor wish Little Nikki a very Happy 18th Birthday on 6th March

48 Amor Spring 2014

“You find a

job that you

love doing,

you never w

ork a day in

your life�

Little Nikki

00 Amor Spring 2014 49

MUSIC

BRIDGET KELLY Check out our interview with Bridget Kelly on For info on future @Chilllondon events visit chilllondon.net youtube.com/amormagazine

R

oc Nation’s Bridget Kelly has managed to build such a devoted fan base so early in her career and has gained quite a substantial following over here in the UK too!

The RnB singer/ songwriter’s musical influences include legends such as Lauryn Hill, Pink and Mariah Carey. When you listen to her music, her musical influences are evident, as each artist illustratively plays a part in her style, charisma and attitude towards music. Her ability to blend RnB, rock and soul is incredible and makes her an amazing

50 Amor Spring 2014

artist to listen to.

Having never performed in the UK before, the Chill London team officially introduced Grammy award winner Bridget Kelly to her UK audience on 27th January 2014 at London’s Jazz Café, where she headlined the show.

Fiery Ms. Kelly sang five songs from her EP ‘Cut To… Bridget Kelly’, which is inspired by love,

relationship and heartbreak. Her songs cover a range of personal experiences that her fans can truly relate to. Surprisingly this independent lady places no importance on Valentine’s Day!

She believes it requires “so much pressure” to look good just for one day.

However, she told Amor presenter Mya that she loves a man who is ambitious, funny and a tad weird and her current partner fulfils these!

Realising her talent at age 11, when she first started performing at events, has given her the head start and experience she utilises today. Being fortunate to work behind the scenes with Jay-Z, one of the biggest rappers of today and the opportunity to collaborate with high profile producers, has contributed to this stunning young lady’s craft. After meeting Bridget Kelly – Amor

brands her as - not just an artist but also an advocate for saying what and how she feels.

Her confidence and enthusiasm for music is no shock as she attended the same high school as other passionate and outspoken artists such as; Nicki Minaj, Azealia Banks and Kelis (artists Amor loves – obviously!).

She advises other female artists to be patient and “understand that your craft and journey is not

comparable to anyone else’s”. Bridget Kelly is sure to do amazing things this year as more opportunities arise for this fearless songstress.

If you haven’t heard Ms. Kelly’s EP ‘Cut To… Bridget Kelly’ well you need to – a more than worthwhile listen!

Bridget Kelly excites us – we predict big things for her and hope to see her again in the UK soon…

Words : Lolade Hassan

RECORDING STUDIO In the heart of London’s Shoreditch 24-hour Access Band Rehearsal Space Recording Facilities Green Screen Photographic Studio Great Day Rates For enquires call: 020 7539 9339 / +44(0)74 3626 3217

15% off by quoting “Amor Magazine” Valid until 30th April 2014 www.vaultstudios.net

MUSIC

Bastille

O

n Wednesday 19th February 2014 one of the biggest annual music awards is set to return at the London 02 Arena. With their first award ceremony launched in 1977 the Brit Awards has been going strong for over 30 years and this year it will be hosted by none other than comedian/actor James Corden.

The awards contain 11 categories including: Best Breakthrough Act, Tom Odell British Female Solo Artist, British Male Predictions Solo Artist, British Group, International English rock band Bastille formed in Group and many others.

London in 2010, had a great year last year with their huge hit ‘Pompeii’ which reached number 2 in the UK Charts. Up for British Breakthrough Act, British Group, British Single and Mastercard British Album of the Year. It’s set to be that Bastille will take home at least one award at the end of the night.

British Singer-songwriter Tom Odell already scooped up last years Critics’ Choice Award, we think he could win this year’s Male Solo Artist.

Coming third in 2010’s X Factor - huge boyband One Direction ‘Midnight Memories’, their latest album became the fastest selling album of last year and we predict them scooping this year’s Group Award.

Singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding received her first UK number one with the successful single ‘Burn’ up for this year’s Female Solo Artist and British Single we think she could be this year’s Female Solo Artist winner.

52 Amor Spring 2014

Words : Bex Clare

MUSIC NEWS!!

Kelis

M

ost known for her huge single ‘Milkshake’. Kelis is set to release her new album entitled ‘Food’ due to be released on 28th April this year.

After hearing vocals of Jess Glynne in Clean Bandit’s latest single ‘Rather Be’ we expect big things for her in 2014.

‘Rather Be’ zoomed up the charts to become the Big Top 40’s new number 1 knocking Pharrell’s ‘Happy’ off the top spot.

Jess Glynne

Kat Dahlia

DVS - London Boy America Dreaming, If you haven’t heard the mixtape yet, where have you been?! The mixtape reached number 1 on the iTunes Hip-Hop chart and claimed a number 4 on the overall British Album Chart on iTunes as well!

Kat Dahlia’s debut single ‘Gangsta’, released in America in March 2013 was a hit! Her Album ‘My Garden’ is due to be released this February, definitely an artist to look out for this year.

Words : Sammy Jane

TOP 10 LOVE SONGS

C

hoosing the top 10 of love songs is hard considering there’s so many lovey dovey tunes from classics to cheese, but it had to be done for us Bridget jones’ wanting to sing along on a lonely Valentine’s day or for those of us who have just fallen in love for the first time (again). So here are the Top 10 Love Songs to get you in the mood for Luurrrve: Starting us off with a classic at

No:10 You find Usher with ‘Nice and Slow’

No:9 We’re going modern with Maxwell and his ‘This Woman’s Work’ No:8 We have Destiny Child and their ‘Cater 2 U’ No:7 A classic with LL Cool J and his ‘Doin It’ No:6 We have Keith Sweat ‘Right and A Wrong Way’ No:5 Again we meet with Usher - ‘Can U Handle It’ No:4 With the beautiful Mariah Carey - ‘We Belong Together’ No:3 We have Marvin Gaye ‘Sexual Healing’ No:2 We have the talented Brian McKnight - ‘Back At One’ And finally we have reached No:1 The phenomenal Alicia Keys - ‘If I Ain’t Got You’ Words : Kylie Slevin

Amor Spring 2014 53

MUSIC

‘Niggas’ in Music Ever wondered why the term ‘Nigga’ is used so loosely in today’s society and within our Music Industry?

T

he word Nigger dates back to the 17th century, a derogatory term used by non-blacks referring to black people suggesting they are extremely unsophisticated. Nigger is now spelt Nigga, to draw attention to the pronunciation of the word. The use of non-standard spelling referred to as ‘eye dialect’ indicates that the character’s speech is dialectal, foreign or uneducated.

The word Nigga is used to demean our character, belittle where we came from and undermine everything we stand for. We were taken from our homes and families, captured and kidnapped like animals, as if we were a nation of savages. Because of the colour of our skin and the fact that we were different from the

white man - or simply because they could - we became Niggas…

So why in 2014 are we still allowing ourselves to be subjected to the extremes of white man’s racism?

Not only that but we have become so accustomed to the term, that we now use it ourselves as a term A young of endearment to one another ‘my Michael Jackson nigga, my brother, my homie’. Some believe black people use the term to retain and exploit the memory of our ancestor’s past, as slaves. Malcolm X quoted “I was called a Nigga so much I thought it was my name”.

We listen to prominent black rappers use the term ‘Nigga’. For example “Niggas in Paris”. What’s so alien and unusual for two successful black men to be living the high life in Paris? Jay Z himself quotes “We ain’t even supposed to be here”. It’s almost as if he’s accepting this pet name and the labels that come with it. Like it’s supposed to be so amazing for a black person to be doing so well for themselves. Like we shouldn’t be in these kinds of places, or we shouldn’t have these nice things.

“Got my Niggas in Paris and they going Gorillas”. I don’t know about any other black person but I myself have never behaved like or emulated a gorilla and I’m unsure why the context of this phrase can be perceived as being provocative. To add further insult to injury, the remark is made by a white person on the track “What does that mean?” “I don’t know, but it’s provocative”. The more we use the word ‘Nigga’ the more we make it socially acceptable for the white man to use the word. As a black person, if you have white friends and use the term Nigga

“I was called a Nigga so much I thought it was my name” Malcom X Kanye West & Jay-Z

54 Amor Spring 2014

loosely around them, then maybe not all, but some, will become accustomed to using the term or suddenly find themselves using it unexpectedly.

On the flip side ,the term is used in endearment as a sign of recognition and what black people stand for. For example ‘All Of The Lights’. In this song Kanye quotes “MJ gone our Nigga dead”. Here Kanye is using the term as a way of identifying our people, our fight and our struggle. Kanye is also using the term to recognise Michael Jackson as the black man that he was.

Whether we choose to use the word Nigga in our vocabulary or not, what we should recognise and always remember is the true definition of the term.

We need to understand where it came from and most importantly understand the fight so many have fought before us. Malcolm X, Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela all fought the fights and paved the way for every single one of us blacks to be free and equal, so that we don’t have to be Niggas anymore…

Written by Elisha Ricketts

Introduction to Afrobeats

A

frobeats is the new African genre taking over the airwaves. Afrobeats is a style of popular music incorporating jazz, soul and funk. It originated from the southern part of Nigeria in the 1960s. The genre has transformed over the decades and is now reaching prominence in the UK charts as well as dominating the African charts.

Due to African immigration into the UK, a subgenre called

UK Afrobeats has now emerged. Those who have grown up in Britain but have an African heritage have now begun to create their own Afrobeats. To keep you up to date with this thrilling genre responsible for dance crazes such as the Azonto, we here at Amor are giving you a rundown of people who are important in the Afrobeat scene.

Words : Immanuella Okunubi

D’banj Nigerian artist D’banj is probably one of the most famous Afrobeats artists worldwide. The star has released a total of three albums to date. In 2011, he got signed to Kanye West’s GOOD Music label.

He has a catalogue of hits, but is most famous for his international hit “Oliver Twist”.

Mista Silva Mista Silva is a UK based Ghanaian artist. He infuses native Ghanaian dialect with funky up-tempo beats that have the crowd wanting to dance. His most popular song is “Boom Boom Tah” featuring Skob, Flava and Kwamz.

Lola Rae 22-year old Lola Rae ED burst onto VIEW E R the Afrobeats scene with eyoncé shocked fans by dropping her debut single “Watch My Ting her fifth album Beyoncé on iTunes Go”. The song is a celebration of unannounced. In three hours Beyoncé women in all their shapes and sizes sold 80,000 copies and in three days went and encourages body confidence. on to reach number one on iTunes Store charts in 104 countries. So the question is; With the rocketing sales and fanfare that The beautiful followed, is Beyoncé’s latest album worth Ezi who is all the hype? often called The album starts with ‘Pretty Hurts’ the ‘African which sets the precedent for the feminist Rihanna’ is one to watch in the tone of the album. The first song discusses Afrobeats scene. Originally from confidence in female appearance with Manchester, she moved to London lyrics like: “Brush your hair / Fix your to pursue a career in modelling and teeth / What you wear”. The intent is singing. She collaborated with Mista sweet but the song is a bit preachy and Silva for her first hit “Catch My flat.

Heart” which established her fans.

Beyoncé examines feminism again and gets it amazingly right with the aptly named ‘Flawless’. The song features a speech by prominent and critically acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie - “We Should All Be Feminists”.

B

Ezi Emela

music video ‘BLOW’

56 Amor Spring 2014

The song ‘Flawless’ is made up of two parts.

The first part is the previously released ‘Bow Down’ in which Beyoncé controversially proclaimed “Bow down bitches”. Her orders are now coupled with Adichie’s speech and ‘Flawless’, the second part of the song, now takes on a new empowering message. The cockiness and arrogance are gone, instead the song is now an advocacy for confidence and selfbelief. It’s not only a great anthem for feminism but a mind-blowing Beyoncé song.

Beyoncé’s feminism is not only about self-assurance, it’s also about confidence in the bedroom and loving sex. On ‘Blow’, Beyoncé cheekily sings “Can you lick my skittles?

That’s the sweetest in the middle.” In case you want to be in denial about Beyoncé’s risqué reference, she also declares “I’m about to get into this, girls / This is for all the grown women out there…” Beyoncé excels with another provocative number ‘No Angel’ which is a devilish delight and a slick and sultry performance from Mrs Carter.

music video ‘DRUNK IN LOVE’ Beyoncé is not only frank sexually but talks about her personal and family life which is famously shrouded in secrecy. On ‘Mine’ she teams up with rap superstar Drake whose influence is clearly evident as Beyoncé opens up about her life. She sings “Been having conversations about breakups and separations / I’m not feeling like myself since the baby”.

Beyoncé continues to delve into the subject of her babies, as she movingly discusses her miscarriage on ‘Heaven’ and adorably dotes on baby Blue Ivy on ‘Blue’. Blue Ivy’s inclusion in the song is heart warming when she says “Been-sy-ay” adorably mispronouncing her mother’s name.

All in all, Beyoncé the album is a triumph. The songs go from strength to strength with vocal powerhouse performances on ‘Drunk In Love’ and ‘No Angel’. Bey shows exactly why she is addressed as ‘Queen Bey’ as she effortlessly delivers striking song after song.

Beyoncé has never been so deep and so damn good, all hail Queen Bey! Words : Ella December, Music Editor

music video ‘BLUE’

Amor Spring 2014 57

MUSIC

Jordanne Patrice Jamaica’s answer to Rihanna!

Written by Charley Jai @msCJ80

A

t just 23 years old, this upcoming Jamaican Reggae/R&B/Pop songstress comes from a diverse musical background inherited from her father.

It is her ultimate goal to become the biggest recording artist in her home country Jamaica.

Graduating from Manley College of the Performing and Visual Arts, where she developed her superb vocal talents, Jordanne Patrice went on to record her first demos “Every Time We Touch” and “Again” produced by Almond Productions. They

58 Amor Spring 2014

both received praise from the public and radio personalities, with both hits capturing the attention of Christopher Birch, one of Jamaica’s hottest producers now working with UIM Records. As she continues her journey to stardom, Jordanne took time out to speak with Amor’s Entertainment Journalist, Charley about life in the fast lane…

1. Tell me more about your musical background… Are there any singers/musicians in your family?

Music was a big part of my life growing up. I started singing when I was about 3 years old. My dad has a huge music collection from all different types of genres, so everyday he would play them. My siblings and I loved them.

We would sing along and dance to all the greats. I took a liking to the singers Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson the most. My dad actually used to be in a band back in the day. He was the lead singer of a band called ‘The Loving Papas’ lol.

2. You’ve received radio play and have many supporters.

How did you start to get yourself and your music heard?

It was probably around 2007… My sister came up with the idea to record videos of myself singing and to put them on Youtube and Facebook. I received a lot of great comments and encouraging words but I wanted to go harder at it.

So, on Facebook, I started tagging a lot of producers, artists, random people and just anyone within the entertainment world.

I started getting a lot of

love and made a fan page based on this. Then two years later my dad took me to a studio to record my first two demos. I still continued making videos, then one day ZJ Johnny Kool from ZIP103 FM (he is a popular DJ on Jamaican radio) saw them and he messaged me on Facebook telling me how great I am and that he wanted to help me. He gave me the link to Christopher Birch. I met up with him and he was impressed by me, so we started working on my first original song.

After that, to get anyone’s attention, I’d still post my videos everywhere.

Whether it would be me singing live, or just one of my recordings, I am very persistent.

3. What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

The most challenging aspect at first, was getting the producers that I loved to give me a chance. I got turned down a lot with too many false promises.

Also, back then the DJs didn’t even want to play my music, so I had to swallow my pride and sometimes even beg lol! Now I’m starting to get the love I’ve always wanted so it isn’t as hard to get radio play. Being a female in the music

world is now the most challenging thing, I would say. It’s a male dominated, dog eat dog, world. Some people can be very cruel!

4. Have there been any highlights to date?

My biggest highlight would have to be hearing myself on the radio for the first time. I couldn’t believe it. I was crying uncontrollably...I will never forget that moment. Also I would say recording my first original song was a highlight. I wrote that song myself and it has a special place in my heart so it really meant a lot to me.

5. So what is the next step for you?

The next step for me is to make more hot music of course lol and to shoot my first music video as well.

Hopefully big things will take place :-) 6. Any tips for other aspiring singers/songwriters?

Be yourself. Don’t make anyone allow you to feel that you’re not good enough. Follow your dreams, don’t give up (even when it gets rough) and trust in the Lord always.

@jordi_patrice | facebook. com/JordannePatrice

Amor Spring 2014 59

ENTERTAINMENT

EVENTLISTINGS

Researched by Charley Jai @msCJ80

LAYDEEZ do COMICS February 17th - March 17th // 6.00pm // Free entry FOYLES BOOKSHOP, 3rd Floor, 113-119 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0EB Laydeez Do Comics is the first UK graphic novel forum led by women, open to all, www.laydeezdocomics.com | E: info@laydeezdocomics.com

Sports and Activity Camp Organised by STRETCH UK SPORTS February 17th – 21st // 8.30am // £10 per day WARREN SPORTS CENTRE, Whalebone Lane North, Dagenham RM6 6SB This is a fantastic way to keep your children entertained and active during their half term break!

For those aged 5-12, the full week offers a range of fun sporting activities including dance, music, arts & crafts. www.stretchuksports.co.uk | Tel: 01708 629 915

“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”

“Josephine Lacey Presents” Each and every Sunday at TOP SECRET COMEDY CLUB! 170 Drury Lane, Holborn, London WC2B 5PD Doors open 7pm // Show starts 8.15pm // £5 entry which includes free pizza!

Laugh yourselves silly at London’s top comedy night featuring both established and upcoming talent.

Which famous face will you spot on the night!? Go get your funny on at Top Secret in Covent Garden. www.thetopsecretcomedyclub.co.uk | @topsecretcomedy

60 Amor Spring 2014

Closes 15th February // times vary // £10-£16 POLKA THEATRE, 240 The Broadway, London SW19 1SB An enchanting production for the whole family bursting with music and mystery! It’s a hilarious and entertaining show which will have you captivated from start to finish. www.polkatheatre. com | Box Office: 020 8543 4888

Showcase Live 24th February // 7pm // £10 UNDER THE BRIDGE, Stamford Bridge Stadium, Fulham Road, London SW6 1HS Featuring some of the hottest musicians in the UK, Showcase Live is a huge platform which promotes new music by rising stars.

Former acts include Jessie J, Leah McFall and JLS. www.showcase-live. co.uk | @showcaseliveuk

Super Mothers Network Retreat

CONCERTLISTINGS

May 9th – 11th (40 places only) £169pp (includes travel, accommodation, meals, activities and classes) The aim of the network is to empower its members, not just mothers but all women.

This year they invite you fab ladies to an amazing weekend of realignment in the heart of Wales. A refreshing adventure, the weekend will be a much needed break from day to day life, a chance to meet new people, the opportunity to detox plus realise skills you never knew you had!

A guaranteed weekend of fun, relaxation and beautiful surroundings! www.supermothersnetwork. com/retreat | @SuperMothers

Drake 24-26 March 2014 The O2 London

Justin Timberlake 1,2,10 April 2014 The O2 London

Katy Perry 27-31 May 2014 The O2 London

Beyoncé 28 Feb-6 March 2014 The O2 London

Ellie Goulding 9 March 2014 The O2 London

Miley Cyrus 6 May 2014 The O2 London

Tinie Tempah

Katy B

30 March 2014 The O2 London

26 March 2014 Koko London

Written by Oadrey Vincent

Amor Spring 2014 61

ENTERTAINMENT

Film Diary Let 2014 be the year of living life to the fullest, with contagious laughter, lots of love and film watching happiness!

February

Robocop (14/02/14) – Action / Sci-Fi / Thriller Starring: Joel Kinnaman, Douglas Urbanski and Annie Cornish A choice between life confined to a wheelchair or a life as a robot. A battle between man and machine; Robocop is back!

About Last Night (14/02/14) – Comedy / Romance Starring: Kevin Hart, Regina Hall, Joy Bryant and Bryan Callen Is double dating ever the way to go? Boys will be boys and indeed girls will be girls. Let the set-ups, love, laughs, sex and dating begin! You know Kevin Hart always brings the ‘funny’.

Dominic Cooper and Dakota Johnson Movie release of the video game which is a modified edition of the car racing game ‘Need for Speed’.

Your dose of high speed car chases, prison breaks and revenge.

Noah (28/03/14) – Adventure / Drama Starring: Emma Watson, Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly and Logan Lerman A modern biblical depiction of the story of Noah, where he receives a divine apocalyptic vision, then takes the necessary precautions to protect his family.

April

March

Captain America: The Winter Soldier (04/04/14) –

– Action / Crime / Thriller Starring: Aaron Paul,

Adventure / Sci-Fi Starring: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson and

Need For Speed (14/03/14)

62 Amor Spring 2014

Sebastian Stan The previous sequel released in 2011 lacked a bit of humour. But now with two new directors, Anthony and Joe Rosso, we anticipate a brilliant mix of cheeky laughs with the usual adventures.

Rio 2 (11/04/14) – Animation / Family Starring: Anne Hathaway, Rodrigo Santoro and Leslie Mann This film is fun for the kids and the whole family

What I’m Reading…

Joie de Vivre by Harriet Welty Rochefort (Non-Fiction - £9.99)

Words by: JanMarie Revers

The French have a certain “Je ne sais quoi” about them in whatever they do from fashion to fine dining. In “Joie de Vivre”, which means Joy of Living, Rochefort provides tips on these French qualities in a witty yet informative read.

Tip one – “Always start your look with lovely lingerie” - sounds about right!

The Beauty Myth by Naomi Wolf (Feminism - £8.99)

too. Rio 2 promises even more magical adventures than the first sequel.

Join Blu, Jewel and their three kids as they attempt to adjust from city life to the wilds of the Amazon.

Words: JanMarie Revers @ JMRevers

How far has society gone in providing the exact definition and image of ‘beauty’? Wolf challenges the idea of the stereotypical ‘beautiful woman’ which the media portrays every day. “The Beauty Myth” is an exploration of the beauty industry and its consumers.

Grain Brain by Dr David Perlmutter and Kristin Loberg (Nutrition / Health - £13.99) Research and the ability to fully understand one’s body has evolved so much, yet new studies are released every day which still manage to shock us all.

“Grain Brain” is aptly headed; “The surprising truth about wheat, carbs and sugar – your brain’s silent killer”. Dr Perlmutter and Loberg provide insight into the growth of new brain cells at various ages as well as research into brain related diseases such as dementia.

Amor Spring 2014 63

ENTERTAINMENT

EE British Academy Film Awards

The award season is all about the recognition of those who are hugely talented, making their mark in the world of music, fashion or film. In the run up to the BAFTA Awards, here are some of my predictions for 2014!

FILM / ADAPTED Screenplay 12 Years a Slave - John Ridley

FILM / ANIMATED Despicable Me 2 - Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin

SUPPORTING ACTOR Michael Fassbender – 12 Years a Slave

FILM / LEADING ACTOR Christian Bale - American Hustle

FILM / LEADING ACTRESS Judi Dench - Philomena

SH OUTSTANDING BRITI FILM - Mandela: Long tin Walk To Freedom - Jus gh, Sin ant An , ick adw Ch lliam David M. Thompson, Wi Nicholson

DOCUMENTARY We Steal Secrets: The Story Of Wikileaks - Al ex Gibney

SUPPORTING ACTRESS Oprah Winfrey – The Butler

EE RISING STAR AWARD Lupita Nyong’o

The award ceremony takes place on Sunday 16th February 2014 and is to be held at London’s Royal Opera House in Covent Garden for the eighth year in a row, hosted by the impressionable Stephen Fry! Join in with the twitter conversation via @BAFTA using #EEBAFTAs - Written by Charley Jai | @msCJ80

64 Amor Spring 2014

THREE DAYS, TWO VENUES, ONE HUGE FESTIVAL 4/5/6 JULY LONDON – FINSBURY PARK BIRMINGHAM – PERRY PARK LONDON: FRI,4TH JULY BIRMINGHAM: SUN, 6TH JULY

LONDON: SAT, 5TH JULY BIRMINGHAM: FRI, 4TH JULY

KANYE WEST

DRAKE

PHARRELL WILLIAMS

RUDIMENTAL

BASEMENT JAXX IGGY AZALEA ELLA EYRE ANGEL HAZE

WIZ KHALIFA AZEALIA BANKS * PRETTY LIGHTS CHANCE THE RAPPER EARL SWEATSHIRT * A$AP FERG

LONDON: SUN, 6TH JULY BIRMINGHAM: SAT, 5TH JULY

BRUNO MARS OUTKAST

ELLIE GOULDING JOHN NEWMAN SALT-N-PEPA * CLEAN BANDIT NEON JUNGLE

TICKETS WENT ON SALE FRIDAY 31 JANUARY AT 9AM (So be fast Amorelles!)

AVAILABLE AT www.wirelessfestival.co.uk www.facebook.com/WirelessFestival www.twitter.com/WirelessFest #wireless

LIFESTYLE

INSPIRATIONAL FEMALE W

ith very little support and encouragement, seeing the lack of opportunities for those who work within the creative field, Remi O decided to launch her very own event which would go on to provide huge platforms of opportunity for businesses as well as individuals, plus become the first networking event to actually give performers the chance to get up close and personal with industry big-wigs!

What were you doing before you launched Actor Expo?

I was working for the BBC as an A.P. working across radio and online.

What makes Actor Expo better than other creative networking events?

Well, it’s run by me and I think I bring a unique creative flair to proceedings. I haven’t imitated anyone else.

I’ve created novel ideas, ran with them and have created an environment that people feel comfortable in and enjoy

66 Amor Spring 2014

returning to year after year.

Being the original event of this kind (launched in 2008) there is a sense of familiarity to Actor Expo compared with other networking events.

Have there been any successful outcomes for anyone who has attended one of your events?

Yes, in 2010 we held a live audition for actors at the event. 6 of them were successful and landed roles in a West End pantomime! They

were fully paid for the season which made me very proud.

What was your biggest achievement last year?

After having to take a year off due to illness, I would say my biggest achievement was returning to work; to run Actor Expo as it takes a lot to pull off an event of its size. Also, the task of having to deliver a successful event, whilst 8 months pregnant was quite an achievement too!

How will you be spending Valentine’s Day? Well it will be my little girls first ever Valentine’s Day and she’ll be exactly 4 months old on that day so I guess I will spend the day loving on her and spoiling her rotten!

Who knows I may even whisk her away to see family overseas in New York or Jamaica!

Actor Expo is held once a year at the Camden Centre in King’s Cross.

Spotlight, Casting Call Pro and USA agents are just some of the professionals who exhibit each year! www.actorexpo.co.uk | @actorexpo Interview by Charley Jai | @msCJ80

International Women’s Day A

nnually, thousands of events are organised to recognise the efforts of women throughout history. The aim is to celebrate and inspire. Those part of the United Nations (UN) identifies March 8th as International Women’s Day. Events are held worldwide and it is typical for students to participate in educational sessions focussed on the lives of women celebrated in history for their achievements.

International Women’s Day Events Be the change When: Saturday 1st March 2014 10am-1pm Where: Mayfield School, Heathfield, Birmingham, B19 1HJ What: An event encouraging those in attendance to improve on life changing factors such as bettering their communities, health and well-being.

Extraordinary Women of Southwark

International Women’s Day

When: Thursday 6th March 2014 10am-4pm Where: Morley College, London, SE1 7HT What: An exploration into the lives of women who have helped to change the social landscape of Bankside in areas such as housing, education and arts.

When: Friday 7th March 2014 Where: Dukinfield Town Hall, Manchester, SK16 4LA What: Mistry Marketing and Events presents a networking celebration. Join with exhibitors, speakers and entrepreneurs.

Words: Jan-Marie Revers @JMRevers

Amor Spring 2014 67

LIFESTYLE

Holiday Destinations Words : Keisha Joseph

BUDGET: £200pp

Barcelona

Barcelona is the perfect low budget city break with tan potential too!

Dance your nights away along Las Ramblas, then sit by the sun on one of the beaches only a short walk from the town centre. With Tapas and Sangria in abundance, the Spanish charm will stop you ever wanting to go home!

Brussels

Easily accessible, thanks to frequent services via Eurostar, getting away for a cultured weekend couldn’t be easier.

With lots of shopping and delicious Belgian chocolate on every corner, you won’t be short of things to do. Don’t forget to be a real tourist by grabbing a peek at the infamous Mannequin Pis

68 Amor Spring 2014

never been more fun. Lots of locations even provide hot tubs for you to relax in after hitting the slopes - Perfect!

BUDGET: £2000pp

Mauritius (the Pissing Boy) before you jump back onto the train home.

BUDGET: £500PP

Venice

Venice provides a European getaway that lives up to all expectations. The best way to get around is by water, gondolas being very popular amongst tourists. Be sure to check out Piazza San Marco for its classic Italian architecture, then enjoy freshly caught seafood at one of the many canalside eateries.

The Alps

If you’re looking for something different to do on holiday and some amazing photo opportunities, then a ski break is for you. With the appeal of both sun and snow, learning something new and keeping fit has

If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle and a bit fed up with party island holidays, then Mauritius is for you. Miles and miles of picturesque sand and perfect blue water as far as the eye can see. This is the place to kick back and relax during a calming break. If the scenery isn’t enough to convince you about your life of luxury, the creole lobster and aubergine fritters will definitely change your mind!

Dominican Republic

Sun? Check! Culture?

Check! Amazing food?

Check! Welcome to the Dominican Republic!

With choices between a vibrant city escape to San Domingo or a luxury beach break in Punta Canta, you are spoilt for choice with things to do.

With food that combines Spanish, Caribbean and African cuisine, you won’t go hungry either!

Benihana

Restaurant Reviews

Words : Ruby Mae Moore

Benihana (Piccadilly branch) 37 Sackville Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 3DQ Cuisine: Japanese (Speciality : Steak, Seafood, Sushi) Price Rage: Average Rating: 4/5 I loved this restaurant. The fantastic food is prepared right there in front of you by your very own chef! If you are into fish, I highly recommend the Black Cod… it is to die for *Dribbling*!

Duck & Waffle

Duck & Waffle

Mama Leahs

Heron Tower, 110 Bishopgate, London EC2N 4AY Cuisine: British (Speciality : their delightful Duck, Waffle, Fried Egg and Mustard Maple Syrup combo – You have to try!)

Price Rage: Average Rating: 4.5/5 I love the fact that this restaurant is open 24/7 offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and late night menus – perfect for the vampires!

Located in the Heron Tower on 40th floor - you cannot get better than the panoramic view of our London city. Great food, great views and conveniently Mama located – Leahs definitely becoming a hotspot for me…

660 Old Kent Rd, London SE15 Cuisine: American (Speciality : Grills, Burgers, Cocktails, Milkshakes, Waffles, Pancakes) Price Rage: Pursefriendly!

Rating: 3.5/5 A very friendly environment.

Staff are very accommodating, and the food is great… American dining with a twist of extra flavour at purse-friendly prices!

LIFESTYLE

E

lla December is a 21 years old, author, journalist and journalism student at the London College of Communication. When Ella was younger, she flirted with many ideas of different professions - an ice cream woman, a civil servant, a journalist… One thing stayed the same though, she always wanted to write a book as writing was her favourite thing to do.

Ella started writing short stories in 2012, which were influenced by music because she had established herself as a music journalist with her personal blog and

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HOW TO

GET YOUR WORK

working for sites such as Grmdaily and Linkup TV. She first wrote three short stories inspired by music, that were part of the RAW (Rhythm And Writing) collection. In 2013, Ella then began a short story series called ‘Mimi Memoirs’ which was about the life of 25 year-old Mimi who had started a new job and embarked on a new relationship. It was a coming of age series, which analysed female friendships, relationships and loyalty amongst other topics. It was also full of drama and cliffhangers.

PUBLISHED

After putting eight short stories on her Scribd, she decided it was time to finally write a novel… ’Crossroads’.

‘Crossroads’ centres around four friends Chelsea, Veronique, Zora and Yvette. The foursome’s lives have all hit a crossroads, hence the title. The four appear to be in successful and comfortable positions in their lives but disarray encounters.

It’s a thought provoking and entertaining read that discusses female

friendships, relationships and the idea of success as well as other talking points.

For all the ‘Crossroads’ fans, Ella is now working on ‘The Zora Tales’ - a short story series focusing on Zora’s life after the book. She is also working on a short story collection called ‘Snippets’ for the end of the year – we can’t wait for this! If you haven’t got a copy yet of Ella’s ‘Crossroads’ - you need to. A brill chick-flick circulated around all the topics young women face. @Elladecember elladecember.wordpress.com scribd.com/ella_December Hardcopies of Ella’s ‘Crossroads’ can be purchased by visiting: www.lulu.com/shop/ellajukwey/crossroads/paperback/ product-21327870.html Or the ebook version is available on Amazon, Google Books and Google Play

ELLA GIVES US 5 TIPS ON HOW TO GET YOUR WORK PUBLISHED 1. Write all the time so your skills are the best they can be 2. Start putting out stories, preferably short stories on Scribd, Wattpad or any other document/ story sharing website. This will help you gain a fan base and court the attention of publishers 3. Join writing forums, so you can get feedback from other writers 4. Research publishers that are best for you. For example my publishers were Wordjar who published young authors in particular 5. Subscribe to Writers Digest - they are extremely helpful

Amor Spring 2014 71

LIFESTYLE

7 STEPS TO JOB SEEKING SUCCESS The New Year is traditionally a time when we take stock of our lives and strive for change. For many people that means a new job. However, with competition for that dream role at its fiercest at the beginning of the year, Arran Stewart, director at MyJobMatcher.com, offers jobseekers a head start with his seven top tips for success:

#1

Make sure your CV will make the “yes” pile. Your CV is still one of the most important tools you’ll ever have to clinch that job. It’s your responsibility and no one else’s, to make sure that you maximise your chances of catching the eye of employers and recruiters.

It sounds obvious, but take the time to ensure that your CV accurately reflects the required skills of the job you are applying for.

Bring out your relevant experience and relate it to the job - also craft a quick, clear and concise covering note to accompany your application. All it takes is a little bit of effort to tweak your CV and it could be the key to opening the door to your next job. Put yourself

72 Amor Spring 2014

into the shoes of the recruiter and ask yourself what they want to see and how your CV will get them excited about YOU?

#2

Tread carefully online - without a traffic cone on your head. Most employers and recruiters will have a look at your digital footprint - sometimes before ever contacting you about your application. If you have a million selfies sporting a traffic cone on your head as your Facebook front page, what conclusion do you think someone will draw? It can be both positive and negative because our digital footprint impacts the first impressions

of who people really think we are - the best candidates use this to their advantage and tailor their online profiles to the sector they are targeting.

Get your personal “in the pub” profile locked down to your mates on Facebook. Don’t be a Twitter twit, instead keep your professional profile on LinkedIn in tip top shape as the latest industry research suggests that 50% of Fortune 100 companies hire here.

#3

Job seeking can be a numbers game but don’t get trigger happy. You won’t simply apply for your dream job one day and get it the next. Unquestionably, job seeking is about setting a number of good horses

running and making sure you steer the right ones home! By all means apply for the jobs you think are best and most relevant to you, but be mindful not to simply apply for everything and anything you find, as you can ultimately end up reducing your chances of finding a job. You don’t want to devalue yourself by landing on every desk at the same time or, even worse, the same desk more than once. Nothing puts an employer off like the smell of desperation.

Stay proud in your search, remain sensibly selective in your job applications and never devalue yourself by getting trigger happy and firing your CV out everywhere.

#4

Be careful of recruiter jargon and buzzwords. Like it or not, online jobs have

inevitably been written by recruiters who are working in salesdriven environments and who are rightfully desperate to fill roles for their clients. As a result of this they quite often succumb to the desire to, shall we say, “over-egg” a role as highlighted in this recent quiz in the Guardian. <http:// careers.theguardian. com/careers-blog/ quiz/top-ten-mostridiculous-job-titlesquiz> The danger here is that although you may consider yourself, say, a “Marketing Manager” and not a “Growth Hacker” - you need to invest the time to understand some of the en vogue terms being used by recruiters in order to ensure that you open yourself up to the best and most relevant roles. It is also sensible to mention these terms in the content of your

CV - even if only in the summary. The reason?

Well a lot of recruiters search for people online and obviously keywords drive a lot of databases and after all, if it’s a great job with the right package do you really care if you are called a “Growth Hacker”?

#5

Always let technology shorten your odds and do the leg work for you - you wouldn’t go out to get 15 separate insurance quotes in order to find the best one - so where it exists, use technology to make your job seeking simpler.

Remember that when you search a traditional search engine such as Google or Bing you will only find what is rated and ranked by that search engine this is often affected by clever SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and the amount of budget someone can spend on PPC (Pay Per Click) or adwords to “get found”, so the results are invariably biased. Take the time to go through to pages three and four, rather than just the top ranked page, as you normally would. Even better, let technology do all the searching for you.

Sites like MyJobMatcher. com receive hundreds of thousands of jobs from all

Amor Spring 2014 73

LIFESTYLE the best job boards and then match your CV to the most relevant, eliminating bias and sending you daily alerts with relevant new job matches.

#6

Don’t forget, it’s all about people At the end of the day, people hire people.

Your CV will only take you so far and where applications are flying in thick and fast, a quick phone call to a hirer to confirm receipt of your CV and willingness to answer any immediate questions, will find you elevated to the top of the list. At the very least they will be aware that you are willing and able to become their next great hire!

#7

Finally Don’t ever give up! Job seeking can at times be a dark and depressing place. But, like all things in life, don’t give up - not ever, and always keep true to your motives. In the end, perseverance, savvy and a helping hand from technology will get you there happy job seeking!

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TOP 10 QUALITIES NEEDED FROM YOUR POTENTIAL BUSINESS PARTNER: 1. Find a Partner Who Shares Your Vision This is the most important attribute in a potential business partner. It is important that your partner shares your vision about how and where they want the company to go.

2. Choose a Partner Who Has Different Expertise To You If you are naturally good at / interested in the marketing and PR of a business, find someone who is naturally good at / interested in pushing for sales. Your business partner is meant to fill in the gaps. Your cons are meant to be their pros – vice versa!

3. Find a Partner Who Can Offer Resources, Knowledge, Experience and Credibility In The Chosen Industry Choose a partner with a strong business network, industry connections, client list and credentials.

4. Choose a Partner who Practices Good Personal and Business Ethics Only enter into partnerships with someone you can trust.

5. Choose a Partner You Respect Choose someone who you respect and who respects you back. If you do not respect your partner, chances are - their opinions and suggestions will mean nothing to you.

6. Choose a Partner Who Has an Admirable Work Rate If you admire the work rate of someone, having him or her in your business should also motivate you to do more.

7. Avoid a Partner Who Is Financially Unstable There are various reasons for avoiding this kind of partner, the obvious being when someone shows a mis

management of financial budgets. They may not have the required discipline to make a business work.

3 Key Spring Saving Tips

8. Avoid a Partner Who Has a lot of Personal Baggage

Hey ladies, Here are 3 key Spring saving tips for the women that love to spend. HAPPY SAVING! Words : Jade Odusote

When someone has a lot of personal baggage they are usually distracted and expect you to understand their incompetence because you are aware of their ‘circumstances’ and therefore should be supportive...

9. Avoid a Partner Who Has Had Failed Businesses Partner with someone who has made a success of previous businesses.

10. Consider A Partner Who Wants To Invest Their Own Money In The Business In Exchange For A Shareholder Only welcome this if the investment is essential to grow your business. If it will grow anyway then why offer any shareholding?

However, if you need the investment, then calculate carefully the size of the shareholding offered as it is not easily retracted and a bank loan may be preferable. @RubyMaeMoore

#1

Prioritise! Cover your necessary costs ASAP, whether it’s a phone bill, accommodation or food costs.

#2

Resist temptation! Stay away from the large shopping centres and juicy sales. Ask yourself before you spend - do I really need this?

Or simply leave your card at home but bring a small amount out with you just in case of emergencies.

#3

Plan ahead! Strategise your spending for the month, how much will you save and how much will you spend? What you’re spending on and why? Also once you have decided how much you’re saving put it in your savings account ASAP. Out of sight, out of mind.

BIG TIP! AVOID eating out this luxury should only be for special occasions. Look for fun social activities that aren’t expensive or that are even FREE!

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LOVE & SEX

RELATIONSHIPS

Should it really be that complicated?

R

eal relationships are meant to be pretty unified and a whole lot of trust is meant to be incorporated. So why is there a great deal of secrecy within most relationships today? Thanks to a fast paced evolving technology industry, we can benefit from smart phones which have multiple passcodes and with finger print identification systems to gain access, which prevents prying individuals.

However the implications this has on relationships can be somewhat severe.

It seems like it’s the norm to be in a committed relationship where both partners have every code or print locked and the other partner just accepts this situation, all in the name of trust. However wouldn’t you agree that trust means you should feel comfortable enough to leave your devices around your partner, whether locked or unlocked, because there are no indecent secrets nor any disloyalty?

When having personal conversations about a

76 Amor Spring 2014

friend or family member’s life via text, email etc. it’s understandable that you don’t want to share these with your partner. But should that be grounds for locking your phone in the most profuse way? If he/ she happens to discover this, then okay be an adult and explain there are particular boundaries.

Having a passcode can indicate you have something to hide, which causes curiosity which can lead to distrust and further problems. If you have nothing to hide then why are you selfinflicting wounds into your relationship? Unless it is the case that perhaps you do have something to hide?

Reality is - everyone wants a partner they can trust whole-heartedly even if this hope is fantasy you can improve your chances by avoiding these technical pitfuls.

Words : Jade Odusote

Love is a Battlefield: 4 Ways to Protect Your Heart

L

ove is complicated!

Has anyone else noticed how love can be torture, joy, pleasure and pain, ALL AT THE SAME TIME!? Amy Winehouse referred to love as a ‘losing game’, Pat Banatar described it as a ‘battlefield’. I always thought love was pretty simple, but maybe these pop

making. Talk about “drunk love”! So what does this mean? It means when we fall in-love we can’t help but be vulnerable.

But don’t worry - here are 4 ways to stay level headed on the battlefield:

#1

Listen to your inner

circle

maestros are onto something. The other day while I strolled through London’s buzzing West End, latte in hand (very cosmopolitan!), I got to thinking about love and the life choices we make when we fall for someone.

The state of being inlove has a similar effect to drinking a double turbo shot. According to scientists, the cocktail of dopamine, norepinephine, serotonin and phenylethylamine, are just some of the chemicals released into the brain that can affect your personal judgment and decision-

It is important not to neglect your close friends and family when it comes to matters of the heart. When you have love-goggles on, everything can be pretty darn rosy and pleasant “I’m so in luuuurve!” But in reality, your close friends and family are the people who have your back! Don’t isolate them. You might not agree with what they say but being prepared to listen to your troops keeps you grounded and gives you a wider perspective.

#2

Ask yourself questions

When we fall in love, we have the tendency to be blinded by our emotions. But don’t be afraid to check in with yourself every now and then. Ask yourself: “Am I happy? Is this relationship taking me forward in life? Am I making decisions about my career and future based on my current relationship? And if yes, am I okay with that?” Your head and heart need to work together!

#3

Don’t lose your sense of self

Keep your personal development going sister!

Maintain your friendships, keep up with your hobbies and don’t neglect your dreams and ambitions.

When two people are both happy and grounded with who they are, they become a stronger couple.

LOVE & SEX

Does settling for sex, mean settling for less?

#4

Consider how your relationship makes you feel about yourself?

When you spend time with your partner do you feel better or worse about yourself and your body?

Equally: how do you make the other person feel?

Practice being mindful of the effect you have on each other.

Love will never be easy.

Even after the honeymoon period, long distance, temptation, fear and personal challenges will always present relationship obstacles. Maybe Ja Rule was right? ‘Love is pain’. But does this mean we should stay off the battlefield? Not take the risk? I don’t think so.

Words : Yazmin Joy Vigus @aliljoy | www.aliljoy.com

‘...the truth is everybody is going to hurt you, you just got to find the ones worth suffering for.’

- Bob Marley

78 Amor Spring 2014

S

ometimes both men and women are found in relationships with no strings attached. This means no phone calls - unless it’s regarding the time and place to meet to have sex - no personal conversations, no dating… I personally believe that settling for sex outside of a relationship means settling for less.

I once believed that it was possible for females to do this and not get emotionally wrapped up, which is demonstrated superbly by our male counterparts... Some of us females like to tell ourselves that having a sexual relationship without the label is fine. If men can - so can we… right? But are we truly satisfied when it is JUST that? What if feelings develop?

Are you breaking an unwritten contract? Or are you trying to strive for a better deal? Could settling for sex on its own just be to remove the fear of getting into another relationship, where you’re valued and will probably fall in love?

Admittedly, writing these articles was inspired by late nights of ‘Sex and the City’ and I remember a scene where Carrie said: “I am someone who is looking for love, real love. Ridiculous, inconvenient, consuming, can’tlive-without-eachother love...” It was a scary quote - but the difference between the character and the majority of women (including myself) is she can admit it, whereas some of us are clouded by fear. What woman doesn’t want this? Can you honestly sit there and say you’d pass on this offer?

Sadly, most women think that ‘casual sex’ could indeed turn into a relationship… but why would it? You’ve already settled for less, why expect more?

Words : Dami Olonisakin @oloni

SINGLE?

but, are you ready to mingle?

1. Get those personal boxes ticked before you seek a partner: stability is so important! (health, home, finances etc).

2. Get your self-appreciation in check before you look to be appreciated by another: no-one will respect you if you do not respect yourself.

3. Get your mind right: we bring about what we think about, so the more you project positivity the more positive outcomes you’ll have.

4. Improve your wardrobe: if you want to attract smart and sophisticated, you need to look the part yourself! (Mix and match if you cannot afford to buy new purchases).

5. Get connected: being a social butterfly will introduce you to all sorts of people. You won’t find your (potential) spouse with your head in work or while sat in front of the TV 24/7!

6. Get flirty and fun: knowing how and when to turn on a little bit of charm goes a long way, so dust off that stush face and replace it with a smile ;)

Happy month of love to all! Being single doesn’t have to be such an issue. Learn to love yourself, embrace the opportunity to achieve certain goals and when you stop thinking so hard about finding The One, he or she will walk into your life just at the right time. Words : Charley Jai | @msCJ80

Amor Spring 2014 79

LOVE & SEX

SPEED DATING

VS

S

o you’re single. Maybe you’ve just come out of a long term relationship and need to get back in the “game” or maybe you’ve just not met that person who gives you butterflies in your immediate/extended colleague/friends group.

Or maybe you’re just sick of being that Bridget Jones figure and find yourself constantly trying to avoid the clutches of pushy family members trying to set you up with various distant acquaintances.

There are various options, one of which is online dating. The benefits of online dating are simple – you get loads of choice (depending on how fussy you really are of course), and also it potentially ends the era of having to cut and run from drunken losers in the club scene.

80 Amor Spring 2014

ONLINE DATING Also, first date nerves may be minimalized, because you get a chance to chat to the person a bit beforehand, which is way easier than a blind date!

Although, while the internet is full of possibilities, this allows the insecure, deceitful, or down right creepy to go wild, so it’s always a wary way of meeting someone. Also, chatting to someone before the date is all well and good, but it could potentially exhaust any potential spark and mystery and then it’s an awkward kiss on the cheek and a shake of the hand.

Speed dating is an alternative. It seems a bit ‘90s, but it’s quick, you can ask the awkward questions and read a person’s body language,

something that’s a little difficult to do behind a computer screen. Also, at least you know that this person is what they say they are at least to some degree (ie they aren’t a 60 year old man trying to pose as a dashing 20-something year old).

Mind you, sometimes the most genuine ‘potentials’ could be shy and reserved, so you may not give them a fair chance because they can’t be heard over the outgoing blow-their-owntrumpet types.

Basically, as learned from Bridget Jones, any way to find ‘potentials’ can be an awkward way. Perhaps try the pushy relative method and the others, and remember you find something when you’re not looking for it.

Words: Rachael Kitson

ECT DO YOU CARE ABOUT THE LAWS THAT AFF E? VOT TO RED ISTE YOU? - ARE YOU REG

In the UK only 12 percent of young people are certain to vote at the next general election (Hansard Society, Audit of Political Engagement, 2013).

From 2014 it will be an annual day of activity in which Bite the Ballotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partners, will be involved in activities in schools, universities and local communities. On the day each partner will have a Bite the Ballot station set up and volunteers will be on hand to sign up and get young people registered and talking about politics.

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