Amuse_Issue04_V3

ISSUE 04

AUGUS T 2012

OLYMPIC SPECIAL

KATE MOSS:

The secret lives of the athletes How to wear sport luxe The games mistress

THE FASHION RULES THE

THE

DIVINE

DEYN

MS

MEN WHO

PUT THE

BOUNCE in Kate Middleton’s blow-dry

NEWLY WED AND ON THE BIG SCREEN

PLUS

KARL LAGERFELD’S secret hideout, when HENRY HOLLAND met RIHANNA, and how to SUCCEED by London’s top businesswomen Cover_AugustHR.indd 1

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Contents A U G U S T 2 012 Left: Olympian chic; Top right: the Bekal hotel in Kerala; Below right: British triathlete Helen Jenkins; Below left: satchel, £880, Dsquared2; sunglasses, £178, Stella McCartney

Regulars 9

AMUSE REVIEWS All the capital’s finest fashion, art, film, music, books and shows

20

OBJECT OF DESIRE Anyone for a Gucci handbag?

23

THE FAST FASHION FIX Henry Holland on the pain and pleasures of style

36

MY TOP SHOP Louise Roe’s shoe fetish

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TRAVEL • News: castelli in Tuscany and eco in Dominica • The real dreamboat • St Tropez, dahling

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107 112

INTERIORS • News: how to decorate the Ralph Lauren way • Why the walk-in wardrobe is the heart of Sarah Curran’s home FOOD • News: food fit for an Olympian • The 15-minute meal by Florence Knight THIS MONTH’S MUSE Darcey Bussell on red wine and cabin fever

Columnists 25

SADIE & IRIS Our mother and daughter columnists get sporty in time for the Olympics

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A MA N ABOUT TOWN Nick Cox is manhandled

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UNNATURAL BEAUTY Bethan Cole on the attractions of black lips and orange eyebrows

Features 26

ON WITH THE SHOW Meet Es Devlin, the woman behind the Olympics closing ceremony

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THIS SPORTING LIFE How triathletes train, divers eat and paralympians think, by Hermione Eyre

38

KATE STYLE Ms Moss on getting dressed, flashing some leg and taking fashion advice from the nanny

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WE MADE IT...

And you can too. Lessons in empire-building from London’s most successful women entrepreneurs

50

AGYNESS FOREVER The model-turned-actress on her stunning, startling success

86

THE DREAM TEAM The three hairdressers tending London’s most precious locks

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HELP! I’VE GOT A STEPSON Lock up the tumble dryer and hide under the duvet – Hellboy’s home

Fashion & Beauty 56

SPORT LUXE Far too good to waste on the gym

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TRAINING DAY The snappiest sneakers in town

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TRENDS Embellishment: join the gild Burgundy: it’s the grand cru of looks Geometric: fashion that crosses the line Knits: Grandma would be thrilled

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BEAUTY News: Chanel pops by The full Brazilian: get up and glow Floral perfumes: scents of summer

On the cover Agyness Deyn, shot

by Christopher Sims at London’s Corinthia Hotel, wears V for Vendetta dress by Aqua by Aqua

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Marc Cain Agency | 2nd Floor, Devon House | 171 - 177 Great Portland Street | London W1W 5PQ Phone +44.20 743 607 05 | mc.agency.uk@marc-cain.com | www.marc-cain.com

EDITOR’S LYDIA SLATER

Starting out as Style Magazine’s Truly Scrumptious columnist, Lydia Slater has also written about food for The Telegraph, the Daily Mail and for Weekend magazine. Over her career she has tracked trends, reviewed restaurants, risked her waistline and fearlessly sampled everything from rabbit brains at El Bulli to home-made rat carpaccio.

My muse: “The exquisitely stylish model Inès de la Fressange – but I’m not sure she eats anything.”

CHRISTOPHER SIMS

Along with shooting Agyness Deyn for aMUSE, talented fashion photographer Chris has been working on recent projects for 55pages, his own personal magazine and online TV channel, and for graffiti artist Mr Brainwash.

My muse: “Bette Davis. With talk of a new film to be released about her, I think she will become an inspiration for a whole new generation. I’ll be channelling some energy from her.”

Hermione Eyre has contributed to Elle magazine, The Times and many other titles. “I’m incorrigibly nosy, so interviewing is my dream job.” Her favourite interview ever was with Naomi Campbell just as the diamond scandal broke: “She appeared to have a stash of diamonds stuffed into her bra. In fact, they were healing crystals.”

My muse: “Sir Kenelm Digby, a 17th-century alchemist. I’m writing a novel about him called Viper Wine, due out in 2014.”

I

Contributors

WILL LAWRENCE

A former editor of movie magazine Empire, where he remains a Contributing Editor, Will Lawrence is a freelance writer on film and a regular contributor to The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Times, among others. His interviewees include Robert Pattinson, Gary Oldman, Kristen Stewart and Steven Spielberg. He is a long-suffering supporter of Peterborough United football club.

My muse: “Bette Davis, or even Joan Jett, on a good day.”

aMuse Magazine is published by aMuse Media, 71-75 Shelton Street, London WC2H 9JQ. Company number: 07189146. aMuse Media cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited articles and images. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters and emails.

The material in aMuse Magazine is subject to copyright. All rights reserved.

The paper in this magazine originates from timber that is sourced from sustainable forests, responsibly managed to strict environmental, social, and economic standards. The manufacturing mills have both FSC & PEFC certification, and also ISO9001 and ISO14001 accreditation.

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

SARAH CURRAN

The leading lady of “everyday luxury” lived in the South of France before establishing the e-tailer mywardrobe.com. This month, she takes us inside her home, which is just as stylish as you’d expect.

My muse: “My father. He was an entrepreneur and instilled a work ethic in me – I knew that if I wanted a certain lifestyle, I’d have to work and contribute to my family. I grew up with him working 24/7 to make his business a success and it drove me to launch my own.”

letter

HERMIONE EYRE

NICHOLAS KAY

London-born Nicholas Kay was 11 when he moved to France and there developed an interest in photography.

After graduating from the Ecole Supérieur des Métiers Artistiques, he came back to London where he specialises in fashion and still-life photography. He is a contributing photographer for GQ UK and is chief photographer at style-passport.com.

My muse: “Chloë Sevigny.

She is super-talented and effortlessly stylish.”

Sasha Slater Editor sasha@amusemagazine.co.uk Hicham Kasbi Art Director copy@amusemagazine.co.uk Stephanie Hirschmiller Deputy Editor stephanie@amusemagazine.co.uk Polly Glass Features Writer polly@amusemagazine.co.uk Arabella Preston Beauty Editor arabella@amusemagazine.co.uk Fran Mullin Junior Fashion Editor fran@amusemagazine.co.uk Contributors: Bethan Cole, Nick Cox, Sadie Frost, Iris Law Lisa Grainger, Lydia Slater, Victoria Moore, Lorelei Marfil, Valentina Tiurbini, Florence Knight, Julia Chadwick, Henrietta Roussoulis, Natalie Silverton, Sara Austin, Beatrice Aidin, Erika de la Barquera, Dieter Brandenburg, Lisa Potter-Dixon 020 7866 8102 Twitter: @amuse_mag facebook.com/amusemagazine Stephen Murphy Publisher stephen@amusemagazine.co.uk Christian Price Commercial Director christian@amusemagazine.co.uk Advertising Consultant: Debra Davies 020 7866 8101 Printer BGP Distribution: Emblem Group Colour Management: David Ladkin

t may feel as though we’ve all been in training for the Olympics for months, but think about it from the athletes’ point of view – their whole careers lead up to this defining moment: fame or obscurity, triumph or ignominious defeat. It takes a certain temperament to cope with the pressure and Hermione Eyre’s wonderfully humane portrait of three Team GB competitors, triathlete Helen Jenkins, diver Tonia Couch and paralympian sprinter Sophia Warner, shows that these women have got what it takes. We wish them all the luck in the world.

Stella McCartney may have made the official tracksuits but she also did a great job on a high-fashion version – check it out on p56 in our sport-luxe fashion story.

Admittedly, it’s slightly less comfy to wear, but it looks a hell of a lot better with heels.

Es Devlin is no top sports star but her role in the Olympics is as important as any athlete’s. For she’s the woman charged with ending the festival with a bang. And her light-hearted closing ceremony is guaranteed to send us all home on a high, she tells Stephanie Hirschmiller, rain or no rain.

And for those of you who’ve had quite enough of sport, there’s still plenty to read in August’s aMUSE , from an exclusive interview with newly wed Agyness Deyn to Kate Moss’s personal fashion rules as outlined by the woman herself.

Happy reading

Sasha Slater sasha@amusemagazine.co.uk AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Reviews aMUSE

... FASHION... ART... FILM... MUSIC... BOOKS... SHOWS ...

Compiled by POLLY GLASS

McQUEEN McQ COMES TO LONDON

MCQ AW12

Drum roll please…(because honestly, this announcement needs it.) Yes, the powers that be at Alexander McQueen are opening the brand’s first flagship McQ store. Offering four floors of McQ womenswear, menswear and accessories – all in a beautiful Georgian townhouse in Mayfair – it’ll open a whole new forum for high-end retail therapy and credit card maxing.

McQ flagship store, 14 Dover Street, alexandermcqueen.co.uk

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fashion GO-FASTER HOSIERY

Canadian knit-meister Mark Fast has collaborated with British stocking label Jonathan Aston on a range of hosiery and bodywear (right) guaranteed to get you out of a tight spot with some serious va va voom. The selfconfessed technology nerd used differently calibrated machines as his starting point for four lines. Our favourite? His Scramble bodies (we love the tangerine, above) – created from a two-tone cationic yarn which shows as different colours when stretched: “It hasn’t been done before,” enthuses the body-conscious designer, who is a firm believer that you should “flaunt it while you’ve got it.” But what makes a woman really sexy? “It’s confidence – and eyes.” Though we suspect a flash of leg doesn’t go amiss either… SH FAST at Jonathan Aston, £6-£38, available exclusively at Selfridges Oxford Street until 24 August, selfridges.com

TKarlE Lagerfeld, A M K fashion’s A R L busiest man,

has just unveiled a capsule collection in Selfridges celebrating the Olympics (right) with a range of limited-edition T-shirts. If you’re looking for some relief from sport, though, there are two other collections available: Karl and Karl Lagerfeld Paris, which offer fashionable alternatives to all that sweaty effort. KT KARL LAGERFELD, available now in Selfridges, selfridges.com

A TRIUMPH OF GOOD DESIGN With cutting-edge undies designs from 16 high-flying fashion students and judges including

Poppy Delevingne and Helena Christensen, the Triumph Inspiration Award pulls in creative prowess from some of the most promising names in fashion. 2012 UK winner Sian Whitefoot, 21, will go head to head with winners from other countries in the Shanghai finals in October.

SIAN WHITEFOOT’S WINNING DESIGN

I wanted my garment to have a high-fashion feel and knew that if I took the ‘Dragons and Butterflies’ theme too literally I would risk it becoming over the top…

I didn’t want to mirror the form of the butterfly itself but, rather, draw subtle inspiration from the insect.

I stumbled across the image of an owl butterfly egg which resulted in late nights spent trawling through wildlife journals for further inspiration.

As a designer, I am influenced by nature…

I find beauty in the most unlikely places, from termite-bitten wood to the texture of salt formations in the desert. [With the Triumph award] I loved the chance to showcase and translate elements of nature into a glamorous, theatrical and, most importantly, fashionable runway piece.

If I win the whole competition, I will…

Buy my dream full-length mannequin from

AlvaForm, which would become an indispensable resource for me during my final collection next year.

And I’d splurge on an Agent Provocateur silk robe and some Charlotte Olympia shoes.

I used to put on miniature fashion shows for my family and friends…

I loved my dressing-up box. The daughter of a very close family friend used to be my main victim and every weekend at barbecues I would lure her up to my bedroom with the promise of sweets and dessert if she’d do just one more show.

On days off, I am happiest…

Dressed down in my comfy PJs in the family home in Anglesey, North Wales. I always go there to clear my head and de-stress; a barbecue on the beach, a nice bottle of wine and some toasted marshmallows as it gets late: perfect. triumphinspirationawarduk.com

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fashion

PRETTY

SHINY THINGS

THE BARBARA JEWELS AT LANVIN

LUXE IN LANVIN

TIME FOR TS AT PRADA

Fashionable city characteristics and imaginative graphics geekery blend in this new T-shirt collection from Prada.

Armenian designer and artist Vahram Muratyan, the brains behind recently-published tome Paris Versus New York has created snappy, ultra-cute but stylish pieces that are the ultimate in cartoon cool. A top summer staple.

Prada Parallel Universes capsule collection, about £120, available in all Prada stores, prada.com

A RING FROM LARA BOHINC’S PALLADIUM FINE JEWELLERY COLLECTION

‘Barbara’ might not seem an obvious title for a lavish jewel collection; but it is named after a flamboyant 1920s American billionaire (Barbara Hutton), so it may actually be perfect for this larger-than-life array of sparklers. Big (very big) and beautiful, these necklaces, bracelets, earrings and belts boast enough oversized sapphires, rubies, emeralds and diamonds to make Titanic’s ‘Heart of The Ocean’ blush. All to commemorate Alber Elbaz’s 10-year anniversary at the Lanvin helm. What will they do for his diamond jubilee?

THE BARBARA JEWELS will be available at Lanvin boutiques from August 2012, lanvin.com

FROM BOHINC WITH LOVE

Considering that they boast exquisite South Sea pearls and several hundred diamonds each, these pieces from Lara Bohinc (for The Palladium Fine Jewellery Collection) offer impressively slick minimal luxury. The five clean-cut, metallic gems – including a ring, pendant and pretty studs – that make up this new collection will add effortless chic to any outfit. Just ignore the upper price range.

A RING FROM LARA BOHINC’S PALLADIUM THE PALLADIUM FINE JEWELLERY COLLECTION BY FINE JEWELLERY LARA BOHINC, £450-£35,200, palladiumvisions.com COLLECTION

SAddTsome R E New E T YorkC HIC style to your THE PRINT OLYMPICS Fashion designer Mary Katrantzou and artist Mark Titchner have

captured the Olympic mood with their Britain Creates collaboration, ‘Tint the pallid landscape (off to the wars in lace)’. The digital animation layers Olympian power words with motifs from Katrantzou’s AW12 collection: spoons, crayons, Post-it notes and even keys from a vintage Olivetti typewriter. “There’s an interesting balance between a landscape of imagery with a kitsch side to it and totalitarian notions of agility, resilience and strength,” she told us. “The person looking at it can project what they think themselves.” The duo were inspired by early Disney animation, “so the layers come together in a very crude way, like painting on glass – flat and decorative.” And we’re not the only ones with an information overload just thinking about it: the digital files used were so huge that Katrantzou’s service provider blocked the internet in her studio during the production process. SH Britain Creates 2012: Fashion + Art Collusion, on display at Selfridges 31 July-19 August, selfridges.com

London wardrobe with the new AW collection from ultra-hip NYC designer Derek Lam. Wearable yet luxurious, they are the perfect party pieces for slightly chilly evenings (let’s face it, we know we’ll have a few) or for stylish business meetings.

We love this luxe jersey number with a check print. Alternatively, pick up a silk pyjama suit with Derek’s signature cat print. Meow.

10 CROSBY DEREK LAM AW12, £245£595, available exclusively in the UK at mywardrobe.com from August 2012

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art LONDON CALLING...

WINNING DESIGN Anyone with an interest in design, sport, or who just fancies checking out Michael Phelps in Speedos should seek out this forward-thinking exhibition.

Just in time for the Olympics, you can absorb the cutting-edge technology, fashion and design prowess behind our sporting style and kit.

The exhibition will also highlight the influence sport has had on art, design and culture. Vicarious sporty living at its best.

DESIGNED TO WIN, Design Museum, until 18 November 2012, designmuseum.org

THE ALCHEMIST OF COLOUR

Sophie Smallhorn, 41, has created installations and projects across London, the USA and Paris. Now she’s in charge of illuminating the Olympic stadium.

What’s your plan for the stadium?

I was commissioned by Populous, the company that designed the stadium, to create a body of colours which could be incorporated into the structure of the building. The Wrap (above), which encircles the structure which, with 336 panels, carries my 56-colour spectrum.

It has been a long project so now it is incredibly exciting to see it finally realised.

What, and who, inspires you in your work?

I take a lot of inspiration from accidental moments of colour that occur all around us, particularly in the city. Like when someone paints over some graffiti on a coloured wall and it creates two planes of colour that don’t quite match but are ‘accidentally’ interesting.

I do have a few colour heroes whose work I often return to: Agnes Martin, Robert Mangold and Sean Scully.

What are your favourite things about London?

London keeps me going. My favourite place to eat is Hereford Road, a restaurant on Hereford Road, and my new discovery is Gospel Oak Lido; but only very early in the morning.

If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?

Perhaps a florist. Because, somewhat romantically, I think it would be very nice to spend your days surrounded by flowers. sophiesmallhorn.co.uk

THE LONDON OPEN: PIO ABAD, ‘LAIR DU TEMPS (CAMEL)’; CAROLINE ACHAINTRE, ‘ZIBRA’, COURTESY OF ARCADE, LONDON. KITTY AND THE BULLDOG: VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM, LONDON (ALL IMAGES)

For the most current contemporary art from London’s finest, head over to Whitechapel. The exhibition, featuring 35 London artists, offers an exciting insight into emerging trends and developments and the people behind them. Many have engaged with politics, others with pop culture… You might not want to put it all up in your house, but it is a sharp snapshot of the what’s going on out there in Dalston.

THE LONDON OPEN, WHITECHAPEL GALLERY, until 14 September 2012, whitechapelgallery.org

HE L L O K I T T Y AT T HE V & A

There’s a certain bizarre stylishness about Lolita fashion, the street style of Japan. The overt wigs, the doll-like (but somehow edgy) make-up, the fixation with Hello Kitty… It’s an absorbing art, whether you find it beautiful or creepy or both; and what better a way to get a fun dose than with this upcoming session at the V&A? It’s the perfect alternative post-work activity. Come and get yourself styled in pink and curls, then hit the bars of South Ken. FRIDAY LATE AT THE V&A: Loli-Pop, 31 August, 6.30pm, main exhibition (‘Kitty and the Bulldog: Lolita Fashion and the Influence of Britain’) until January 2013, vam.ac.uk

A MINI ADVENTURE

Purple flares, poodle skirts, kitsch glamour…

From 50s rock ’n’ roll, through stylish mods, to the punk movement, British pop culture has spawned some sexy triumphs and some godawful embarrassments. All of which can be ogled or laughed at, depending on your viewpoint, at this wonderfully fun exhibition, embracing pieces from Mary Quant, Vivienne Westwood and a plethora of others – as well as pop graphics in posters, furniture and other bits and bobs.

POP! DESIGN. CULTURE. FASHION., Fashion and Textile Museum, until 27 October, ftmlondon.org

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Available at: BASLER Store, 55 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW3 1DP BASLER Store, Westfield London Shopping Centre, London W12 7GF BASLER Store, Westfield Stratford City, London E20 1EL BASLER Store, Brent Cross Shopping Centre, London NW4 3FJ

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AMUSE ART /

film

fashion / FILM

/ RESTAUR A NTS / BOOKS /

SHORT FILMS AT THE SANDERSON

A movie buff ’s dream that’s too good to miss. The premise is simple and luxurious – watch any of the fantastic, alternative films from the 2012 Future Shorts festival, on-demand, in-hotel… We tried this offer at the swish Sanderson and can confirm it’s a bloody magnificent arrangement.

FUTURE SHORTS on-demand film screenings at the Sanderson and St Martin’s Lane hotels, until 31 August, futureshorts.com/festival

SSSHH, SILENT CINEMA…

St Martin’s Courtyard might just have one of the most appealing culture shots of the summer.

Transported into a free open-air cinema, visitors don wireless headphones and absorb quality international films. Al fresco tables and special menus from neighbouring funky restaurants will be on hand for pre-film dining and, for nibbles during the movie, enjoy a cocktail from Bill’s and free gourmet popcorn.

Forget Cannes: Covent Garden’s where it’s at.

SILENT CINEMA: Mini International Film Festival at St Martin’s Courtyard, 8-9 August, stmartinscourtyard.co.uk

music

ABOVE LEFT TO RIGHT: SANDERSON HOTEL; ST MARTIN’S COURTYARD

THE FEELGOOD FLICK

Margot (Michelle Williams) seems perfectly chirpy shacked up with round-faced wunderkind Lou (Seth Rogen) in sunny Toronto. Until dashing Daniel (Luke Kirby, of Law & Order fame) sails in and rocks her boat decidedly more than her cookbook-writing husband. Sexy yet strangely thought-provoking.

TAKE THIS WALTZ, out 17 August, takethiswaltz.com

LOVE IT OR LOATHE IT?

360, from Fernando Meirelles, director of City Of God, is a twisty, turny affair. Featuring a host of characters in different countries – including Jude Law as a nerdy businessman and Rachel Weisz as his wife – it charts their interconnected lives and sexual exploits. Some escapades are more convincing than others (you half-expect the evil eastern-Europeanpimp-Mafia bunch to sprout devil horns and cry “mwah-ha ha”), but it certainly commands attention. Go with your most opinionated friends.

360 opens 10 August, magpictures.com/360

C A N A DI A N C OOL Full of texture and colour, beloved ‘Ironic’ songstress Alanis Morissette is back after a four-year hiatus. Her trademark ‘empowered woman’ tone blends with rocky drives, electronic edges and softer moments. At its best in upbeat numbers like ‘Guardian’, it’s a good excuse for a nostalgic summer shindig.

HAVOC AND BRIGHT LIGHTS

by Alanis Morissette is out 27 August on Sony

360 © PHIL FISK 2010

LONDON’S SECRET FILM FESTIVALS

PARTY ON THE BLOC

Thank goodness, Bloc Party have released their first album since 2008 and we can confirm it was worth the wait. From the grungy undercurrent of ‘Kettling’, to the groovier feel of single ‘Octopus’, it’s just as interesting as the band’s back-catalogue, but with a new assurance and catchiness. The soundtrack for wild, dizzy late nights out – the band’s best work yet.

FOUR BY BLOC PARTY is out 20 August on Frenchkiss

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BORN IN BRITAIN

w w w. g o l a . c o . u k

40 Carnaby Street & Boxpark, Shoreditch

books PICK YOUR FAVOURITE

PENSIVE READS

LIFE SAVER We really struggled to put this down as the lives of Joanna, her daughter Holly (suffering terrible post-natal depression) and her grandson Mikey are changed forever after little Mikey topples into the Seine on a Paris trip – and is saved by a total stranger. This is a gripping, beautifully written book from the author of the highly acclaimed Other People’s Secrets.

A compelling observation of parenthood, life and love.

THE DAY YOU SAVED MY LIFE, Louise Candlish,£6.99, Little Brown Book Group

TWISTED FATES If you liked the basic concept of The Parent Trap but found the whole thing a bit sickly sweet, you might want to turn your attention to this: a fiercely engaging, readable, yet intelligent novel. Become absorbed in the evolving plights of two sisters, their respective futures decided by the toss of a coin – one to enjoy a cushy western life, the other to struggle and despair in an East German orphanage.

Best read with tissues and tea. Or something involving gin, on the beach.

A TWIST OF FATE, Jo Rees, out 2 August, £6.99, Pan Macmillan

Don some diamonds and shed an acceptance speech tear with this picture-led celebration of Dior-clad stars. In advertising campaigns, on screen and the red carpet, pore over Hollywood’s darlings in Dior from the ’40s to the ’00s.

STARS IN DIOR, text by Jerome Hanover, £40, Rizzoli Tell us what The Pleasures of Men is about.

It is 1840. Young Catherine Sorgeuil lives with her uncle in a rambling house in Spitalfields. Lonely, she is prone to dwelling on her past – until a killer begins to attack young girls. Catherine becomes obsessed with the killer and is so sure she can find him that she wanders London’s streets alone…

BREAKING THE DIET RULES

Bodies and I am really looking forward to reading Renegade, the new book by Robyn Young.

What literature do you always come back to?

I never tire of George Eliot – and I’m on my fifteenth reading of Anna Karenina. I wanted to read it again ahead of the forthcoming film.

Have you always been passionate about history?

When I was about seven, I made a cardboard box into a ‘time machine’ for my brother and he went flying off to new worlds. Now I fly in the machine too – but through words.

What drew you to the Victorian era?

I have always been fascinated by the 19th century – the industry, the bustle, the secrets and hidden corners… London was a place where great riches co-existed with terrible poverty. It was vulnerable to crime – as the murderer in the story knows.

What new books are you looking forward to reading this summer?

I am gripped by Hilary Mantel’s Bring Up The

Unless you’ve been living under a rock in recent weeks, you’ll probably have come across E.L James’ super-sexy Fifty Shades of Grey series. US writer Sylvia Day is poised to rival her, and some say Bared To You offers everything Fifty Shades... lacks, were such a thing possible.

So hot it practically sizzles, Bared To You charts the life of Manhattan newbie, Eva, and her steamy romance with the unspeakably dashing Gideon. Move over Danielle Steele and Jackie Collins, this is the dawn of a new Day. BARED TO YOU, Sylvia Day, £7.99, Penguin

Broccoli is worse than drinking Coke and fruits block fat-loss: A-list diet guru Venice A. Fulton has unusual ideas for getting “skinny in six weeks”. Opening with robustly-titled chapter “Cut the crap” and “Break fast or break fats” (he advocates skipping breakfast), Fulton challenges both medical advice and common sense, but it’s all backed up with logic and science…

SIX WEEKS TO OMG, £12.99, Michael Joseph/Penguin

IT’S DIOR, DARLING

What are your favourite London destinations?

I love to walk around Spitalfields. I like the Ten Bells pub – pure history – and the Hawksmoor bar.

FIFTY SHADES OF DAY

LONDON GOTHIC Historian, author and BBC fixture Kate Williams, 38, talks about her new novel’s seductive take on Victorian London, Spitalfields pubs and time machines…

What’s next for you?

I am currently finishing my second novel – about the aftermath of the Opium Wars in England and China and a terrified governess living in a large house in Yorkshire. I scare myself sometimes.

The Pleasures of Men, £12.99, Michael Joseph/Penguin

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shows

COCOROSIE: JAIR SFEZ

THE NEW BURLESQUE Miss Polly Rae stars in The Hurly Burly Sierra (left) and Bianca Casady

MAGNIFICENT MELTDOWN Get an inspiring dose of culture at this Southbank Centre festival. Catch intimate piano from Antony Hegarty (of Antony & The Johnsons, the festival curator) with contemporary dance accompaniment, a set from Lou Reed, or a lecture by Maria Abramovic. Also performing are experimental musical duo CocoRosie: two sisters who’ve soundtracked Kenzo perfume adverts, lived everywhere from Hawaii to Paris, pursued art projects and a million other exciting things. We spoke to one half, Bianca Casady, 30…

CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER

Whether or not you’ve read the gripping Mark Haddon tale told from the point of view of an intelligent, severely autistic boy who discovers a dead dog in his neighbours’ garden, speared by a garden fork, this National Theatre play based on the novel promises to be both thought-provoking and extremely engaging.

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME, opens 2 August, Cottlesloe Theatre, nationaltheatre.org.uk

Tell us a bit about the show you have planned for Meltdown…

We’ll be touring with a five-piece band from India called The Rajastan Roots and also with some great players from NYC, doing new arrangements of old and new songs.

We’re also screening uncut footage from the recent video for our single ‘We Are On Fire’.

Was your childhood musical?

Sierra was always a choir girl [she was an opera singer in Paris, before the two formed CocoRosie]. And our mother has a very kind, bird-like voice – she sang to us before bed.

Who and what inspires you?

I like beauty supply stores in NYC; the cheap ones, downtown. Hair nets have been a huge inspiration to us for many years.

Where do you get your outfits?

We shop at a kind of French Salvation Army, for workers’ clothes – we dress as workers.

COCOROSIE are appearing at Antony’s Meltdown, 1-12 August, part of Southbank Centre’s Festival of the World, southbankcentre.co.uk/meltdown

Show, a burlesque tour de force now directed by Kylie Minogue’s creative chief, William Baker Tell us about the show…

It’s a supercharged, sexy, saucy, feel-good, poke-fun, camptastic ride. It’s a pop concert with nudity. It’s Crazy Horse-meets-Madonnameets-Gypsy Rose Lee. You are going to know and love all the songs, want all the costumes and experience something completely new and very exciting. I front the show as the lead vocalist and burlesque performer and am accompanied by six amazing ‘Hurly Burly Girlys’.

Favourite bit of the show?

We have a very special new act that involves a giant hamburger…

Who inspires you?

I grew up obsessed by Madonna. I admire people who are brave enough to change their life for the better, even if it’s a risk to take that step.

How did you get into burlesque?

I met Jo King (a British burlesque performer) at a burlesque drop-in class in London and fell in love with the art form. With girls I’d enrolled into a Pussy Cat Dolls cabaret troupe I’d had before, I developed the material into something closer to burlesque, but added a contemporary twist.

What’s the best thing about what you do?

I laugh. A lot. The word burlesque means ‘to send up or to make a mockery’. We spend most rehearsals in stitches.

THE HURLY BURLY SHOW, Duchess Theatre, until 22 September, box office: 0844 412 4659

THE KENSINGTON ROAD SHOW

Ever feel that big shiny street flanked by the V&A and Science Museum looks a bit bare and tumbleweedy? Well, for nine days, this wide, smooth space will be teeming with music, art, live literature and circus acts. So go along to be serenaded by Patrick Wolf, take in a reading of a specially commissioned short story from Eleanor Thom (dubbed by The Guardian as one of the 12 best new novelists last year), or gawp at the acrobatics of elite ensemble The Exhibitionists.

ROAD SHOW, EXHIBITION ROAD, Kensington, 28 July-5 August, exhibitionroadshow.co.uk AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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object of

desire

THE

FLORENTINE

BAG

THERE are handbags; and then there are ones which make you go, “Ooooooohhhhhh”. This is one such bag. Gucci, the Florentine house that has been doing clever things with leather since goodness knows when, has taken its 1975 stirrup-shaped handbag and reinvented it for us fortunate 21st-century women. All butter-soft leather (or crocodile, or python, or ostrich) and lined with suede, it’s closed with a spur and comes in six colours and two sizes. The idea of a small, neat, structured handbag can be appealing but, let’s face it, most of us would struggle with the reality. The Soft Stirrup offers the best of both worlds – the modern slouchiness that allows us to chuck all our stuff in, but with just enough structure and luxurious detailing to look smart. All together now: “oooohhhhhh”.

Small Soft Stirrup bag in leather and suede, £1,260, by Gucci, 020 7235 6707, gucci.com 20 | AMUSE

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HOUSE OF HOLLAND AW12 HOUSE OF HOLLAND SS12

HOUSE OF HOLLAND AW12

‘Fashion is all about having fun and looking great and, if it hurts your feet for half an hour, then it does’

If I was going to assemble a crack Olympics fashion squad… it would just be my friends Richard Nicholl, Jonathan Saunders, Louise Gray and Gareth Pugh. I used to be a gymnast when I was a kid so that would be my Olympic sport. I gave it up, though, which I now regret – I’d have a much better body now if I hadn’t.

Rihanna is kind of as you’d imagine… but more so. She’s so in touch with what’s going on, she’s so intelligent. And she’s passionate about Styled to Rock – it was her concept, really. She’s the executive producer.

I own quite a lot of Christian Louboutin shoes… and they’re actually easy to wear because I don’t have the high heels. Having said that, I often wear things that aren’t the most comfortable. Fashion is all about having fun and looking great and, if it hurts your feet for half an hour, then it does.

I have to be enjoying myself for something to hold my interest… It helps me to keep

The fast fashion fix:

HENRY HOLLAND The fashion designer, 29, grew up in Ramsbottom, Lancashire with our cover star Agyness Deyn, counts the model-turned-actress as his muse and has just collaborated with Rihanna on Sky’s new fashion reality show, Styled to Rock

my concentration and to be creative. If I’m miserable, I find it hard to do anything.

I think Agyness always wanted to be an actress… That’s what she was looking to go into before she got scouted as a model. There are definitely elements of acting to modelling.

It’s all about becoming someone else and creating characters.

Fashion film is a great medium to present clothes in a different setting… It brings them to life and allows you to have so much more fun, with music and moving images. I loved the film Lanvin did with models dancing to Pitbull’s I Know You Want Me.

We’ve just shot a new film for the House of Holland underwear line we launched last year… This season we’re expanding it into sets; we just did knickers before. The new collection has a neon mesh which glows in UV light, so we’ve shot that in the video.

We created our own team for the House of Holland Resort 2013 collection… It was inspired by cheerleaders past and present and is all pom poms and Americana. There are lots of other references to sports, too – simple, wearable shapes but in great bright prints with a really fun attitude.

Styled to Rock airs on Sky Living later in the summer AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Family values — SADIE FROST —

C

When I was a child I went to The Primrose Hill state primary school in North London.

It was a solid school that nurtured diverse talents: the Milibands went there; and Boris Johnson; and the author Zoë Heller. What the school did really well was to recognise individuality and encourage uniqueness. In me. they saw a young girl in awe of the world of gymnastics. I watched the Olympics on the telly and was completely obsessed by the Russian gymnast Olga Korbut. As I practised handstands and backbends against my bedroom door, my eyes were on the posters of her, my idol, Blu-tacked to my bedroom wall.

The school observed my improvement and I was allowed to leave early some afternoons to train at the Michael Sobell centre in Holloway Road.

I would take the number 29 bus up the Camden Road and there I would practise my floor work and the bars till my body ached and my hands were sore – but my mind was exhilarated. I dreamt nightly that I would become a gymnast. However, in the late 70s in the UK, training facilities were limited, so everyone decided I should concentrate on dance instead.

I won a Scholarship to The Italia Conti Stage School, where I would spend three hours a day dancing.

All of this exercise at such a young age instilled in me the importance of being fit and healthy and while of course I can do none of that level of exercise now, I have a regime that spans trapeze, pilates, yoga and swimming. It’s important in my family – my sisters work out every day and one of them, Holly, is a personal trainer with whom I train regularly. My sons play tennis, football and cricket and watch every bit of sport on the TV, and Iris will do yoga, trapeze, and netball at school.

We all love watching sport together, though if it’s a choice between football and gymnastics, the boys and I will be fighting over the remote control.

They usually win. I’m sure we will be glued to the TV, watching everything this summer, and I can’t wait.

And I am equally sure there are thousands of boys and girls out there who will be inspired by this young generation of sportspeople and gymnasts. I just wonder who the stars of tomorrow will be.

PHOTOGRAPH: CHRISTOPHER SIMS; ASSISTANT NICK THOMPSON

‘As I practised handstands and backbends against my bedroom door, my eyes were on the posters on the walls of my idol, Olga Korbut’

I

— IRIS LAW —

like lots of sports but definitely not football. I have my fair share of football talk around the house as I have three football-crazy brothers, but I love hockey and netball and I play goal strike for both.

I’m not very competitive except with my closest friends which is weird. One of my best friends and I are among the better hockey players at school so we both play goal strike and often there is a little bit of a feud between us.

Apart from that, my school isn’t very sporty as it’s quite academic instead.

My brother Rudy plays football and cricket and has also taken up kickboxing; my other brother, Raff, is a sportsman through and through and has just won the tennis tournament at his school. As mum had such a fondness for gym as a child, she’s also enrolled me for classes at the Talacre sports centre (they train up some kids for the Olympics), though I don’t think it comes as naturally to me as it did to her. Mum does tons of pilates and yoga, too, but I’m happy she doesn’t do it excessively…

I don’t think I will be in town for August as I will be in France with a friend and then continuing onto other holidays, but I am interested in the Olympics. My school is very patriotic and is getting really involved. It has planned lots of Olympicthemed lessons and assemblies – one of which I was picked to direct. It took ages and I got quite frustrated because I’m a perfectionist and I was trying to direct 15 girls while they were all trying to talk at once.

I had to choreograph the girls all pretending to do different sports from the Olympics, so that they looked real. I included things such as the javelin, the hammer throw and the hundred-metre run. My idea was to make it synchronised, so that was even harder to achieve. However, we finally got there and it did look great in the end.

‘I was picked to direct an Olympicthemed assembly. It was frustrating because I’m a perfectionist and all 15 girls were talking at once’

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MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES Creating a memorable closing ceremony for the London 2012 Olympics is all down to one woman, Es Devlin.

How fortunate that she’s honed her design skills with Lady Gaga, Take That, Trevor Nunn and the Royal Opera House, says Stephanie Hirschmiller

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“I

Devlin’s set for David McVicar’s production of Berlioz’s Les Troyens at The Royal Opera House; (below) Es Devlin

t will probably all go horribly wrong,” observes Es Devlin, the set designer charged with creating the set for the Olympics Closing Ceremony.

I can’t see her eyes as they’re hidden behind a pair of Ray-Bans. However, if I could, I suspect they would reveal a flicker of mischief.

The two-and-a-half-hour show, “a seamless symphony of great British pop songs”, will be a celebration of the popular culture of the last 60 years, incorporating art and fashion as well as music. “It’s going to be very fun and colourful and it’s quite irreverent: it doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Don’t expect Wagner or Berlioz; think more along the lines of fun pop – really fun, bright pop.”

The gargantuan project involves a 100-odd-acre rehearsal space behind Dagenham’s Old Ford Factory, manned by 1,500 volunteers, two one-to-one mark-ups of the actual venue, a triple-peaked blueand-yellow striped circus tent and 72 trucks full of scenery (transported from Bristol and Birmingham). Oh yes, and only 16 hours to erect everything in the Olympic stadium itself – nine of which will be spent covering the pitch, as it needs to be in perfect shape for the Paralympics taking place just after.

“So there’s a genuine possibility that the bell will ring, like when you’re in an exam and you’re halfway through your essay, and we’ll just go, ‘And they all lived happily ever after,’ and do the show on what we’ve built,” she deadpans. Then she adds that the stadium is outside and it’s going to rain. “If you think about it, a roof might have been a good idea. I didn’t have a say in the building of the stadium. If I had, there might have been a roof on it.”

But, despite everything, Devlin is excited: “Being under the real elements, there’s something about it – it will look fabulous on camera. It’ll be dark and the lights will be glistening in the reflection of the rain. Wind is the tricky one…” However, we can all take solace from the fact that Take That’s Progress tour last year with its 60-foot robotic man – another Devlin special – all went off despite an accompaniment of driving wind and rain.

There has been a lot of fanfare about the opening ceremony. The Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle is masterminding the show.

Daniel Craig’s done a James Bond film for it and Sir Paul McCartney’s playing, but Devlin’s closing ceremony has gone almost completely under the radar – and that’s the way she likes it. Or, possibly, she’s just been far too busy to give the PR battle a second’s thought.

When we speak, she has just completed the set for David McVicar’s production of Berlioz’s Les Troyens at The Royal Opera House – featuring a giant horse made of discarded 19th-century weaponry, towering 25 foot high over the performers. Troy and Carthage were represented as the convex outside and concave interior of a huge, three-storey metal drum, which acted as a giant sounding board. However, while she had four years to plan for Les AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Clockwise from top: Salome at The Royal Opera House; Devlin’s 60-foot robotic man for Take That’s Progress tour in 2011; the Olympic Stadium

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Troyens, the lead time for the Olympics was only a year.

Devlin, 40, grew up in Sussex in an academic and creative household with a teacher and a journalist for parents, who shared a love of storytelling. She has three siblings: one brother is now a composer, pianist and Russian-speaking lawyer, another works for the Cricket Foundation and her sister runs a craft centre. Following an English Literature degree at Bristol University, where she started drawing as “an escape from the pressure to produce words,” she undertook a Foundation Course at Central Saint Martin’s and then the Motley Theatre Design Course, winning the Linbury Prize for Stage Design in 1996 for her portfolio.

The prize was a commission for her first production – Lawrence Till’s Edward II – for which she tiled the Bolton Octagon so that it resembled a swimming pool, because “the play is set in an atmosphere of decay and abuse and the derelict swimming baths provided a useful foil to the language.” She has collaborated with the big names from the outset: Trevor Nunn on Harold Pinter’s Betrayal at the Lyttelton felt like “winning the lottery,” she tells me, and Pinter himself attended many of the rehearsals. She has since worked on everything from Macbeth at Klangbogen in Vienna to Salome at The Royal Opera House (her first commission from McVicar, who booked her in for Les Troyens as soon as the production closed) and the Royal Danish Opera’s Parsifal where she turned the stage into a giant megaphone: “The opening night was really special – it’s the first Wagner I had designed – and it was a really spiritual, lifechanging piece of music.”

A pivotal moment in her career wa s desig ning a Barbican production for WIRE alongside Jake and Dinos Chapman in 2000. It caught the attention of Kanye West and propelled her on a parallel course in to the world of pop, as she created stadium sets for the rapper, for Take That’s Circus tour with its mechanical elephant and for Lady Gaga’s Monster’s Ball – constituting a box made up of Nick Knight’s fashion films. “Gaga is a consummate performance artist and feels her way towards what the design should be via her costume,” she tells me. “Her range of references is really wellinformed and she knows exactly what she wants to see.” Devlin, Gaga and Kanye even recced a performance of De la Guarda together in New York and her repertoire also includes sets for Rihanna’s BRITS and Grammy performances and West and Jay-Z’s Watch The Throne tour across the US last year.

I meet Devlin at the start of July at the Olympics rehearsal venue.

With her mane of glossy raven hair, she’s dressed for action in puffa jacket, rolled-up jeans and Adidas trainers – accessorised with a Mulberry messenger bag, huge beaten silver rings and a lariat of security passes like a VIP Lovebox attendee – making her far easier to reconcile with her pop career than the theatre and opera in which she initially made her name.

However, as she explained, “there’s less of a crazy distinction between them than you might imagine and I wouldn’t be able to do without one or the other now. I think some of the practices in opera are helpful because the infrastructure is so clear, and yet the other side of that is that it can become rather predictable and traditional. With pop, sometimes it can be very chaotic and lastminute, and yet you can have moments of very liberated inspiration.”

In fact, it was while she was working on 2011’s Take That Progress tour that she hatched plans for the Olympics pitch, alongside coconspirator and creative director Kim Gavin. “We were sitting at Babington House for a week with the members of the band,” she recalled. “They wouldn’t get up until about 10 or 11, so we would have what we would call our ‘Olympic’ breakfast at eight.”

Devlin met her partner, costume designer Jake Galloway while working on the Pet Shop Boys’ Closer to Heaven musical in 2000.

They live in Peckham with their two sons – five-year-old Ry and two-year-old Ludo. “We used to sleep in our studios, but when we had the children we needed a separate space, so we built an apartment above the workspaces,” she says. Her mentality, too, has taken a shift: “I think you always have to be relatively obsessive, but you can’t physically do the most perfect job of being a mother and do the most perfect job on every one of the projects you’ve taken on and still be alive by the end of the week.”

But, although she’s pragmatic, she’s still irked if something falls short of how she imagined it: “I lie in bed going, ‘Arrrrgh.’ What I tend to do is plan how I can change things. So I just scheme and come along with little lists to people and say, ‘I need to change this, this and this,’ and then it’ll be exactly as I saw it.”

She’s nothing if not thorough a nd favou rs a n ac adem ic approach; one, more often than not, that entails total immersion: Les Troyens involved reading the letters of Berlioz, a whole lot of Virg il and visual research extending from Iraqi battlefields to north-African desert hill towns. She even spent time with inmates at Pentonville Prison while working on Beethoven’s Fidelio (set in a political jail). “I remember so clearly what this guy said to me: ‘When you come in here, you’re given a number, not a name, to scrub your identity away. What I held on to was this diamond of my own identity.’”

But back to the Olympics. And although she won’t be drawn on the details of the performers taking part (though rumour has it supers Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Rosie Huntington Whiteley will feature in a catwalk show celebrating British fashion, in outfits

by McQueen to Westwood along performances by The Who, George Michael and Take That), she told me she’d delved into the lyrics and iconography of each song to inform her production. And she warns me to expect “lots of weather-related jokes.” So bring a brolly – and enjoy the show. a Les Troyens opens in November in cinemas worldwide (roh.org.uk)

‘You can’t do the most perfect job of being a mother and do the most perfect job on every one of the projects you’ve taken on and still be alive by the end of the week’

AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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SHERE WE COME

TRATFORD

A triathlete whose favourite tipple is brandy, a Paralympian who keeps chickens, and a diver who shares her make-up with her teammates. Hermione Eyre uncovers the human side of the Olympic goddesses

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PHOTO BY TRIPLEDRY

Triathlete Helen Jenkins AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Helen Jenkins, 28, is an award-winning triathlete who lives with her coach and husband Marc Jenkins in Bridgend, Wales.

“Triathlon is actually a really friendly event. There’s not a huge amount of us – 55 on the start line at the Olympics. Obviously, we want to beat each other, but often we’re side-by-side for a two-hour race, so there’s a level of respect. You try not to bash into each other during the race. If it happens, I don’t think it’s intentional; often, you don’t know who’s kicked you, if you’re all in the water together. Then you find out later, when you watch the race back on TV. Let’s just say there are certain people you don’t want to stand next to in the start line.

Afterwards, we congratulate one another. There’s a sense of kinship because we all have the same dedication to our craft. A good way to let off steam is with the other athletes in the free bar after the Games. My tipple of choice is a brandy. Some athletes drink all the way through their training; I don’t. In the middle of the season it’s not something I want that much. It’s a personal choice. Tea and chocolate digestive biscuits keep me going. I never met a triathlete who didn’t love pudding.

The Olympics is going to be such a positive thing for Britain.

There might be a bit of complaining beforehand, because it’s a big inconvenience for a lot of people, but as soon as we have some British success everyone will forget about that and get on board.

The Beijing Games was spectacular – going in to the Birds Nest stadium was one of the most amazing experiences of my life – but our Games are going to mean a lot more to us as a country because the British public as a whole are interested in sport, and educated about it too.

I don’t know where my dedication comes from. Parents have a big impact. My parents, Ed and Jo Tucker, have always been as dedicated as I have. My father was in the RAF; he and my mum used to get up at the crack of dawn taking me back and forth across the country. Yet they never pushed me. It’s a hard balance to find.

Their approach helps make you what you are. I just want to get the best out of myself, see how fast I can run, how fast I can swim.

My husband, Marc, is also my trainer. We met at a swimming club and I got to know him when I was doing triathlon training.

He was an accomplished triathlete [he represented Britain at two Olympic Games] but I never thought about that, because I trained with him from when I was young. He was just there.

His career was cut short due to health issues – he has a DVT problem. He still races, but not this year. He created my training schedule and I get on with it. On indoor bike sessions, we always listen to AC/DC. It’s his choice; he calls the shots. But when I’m running, I’ll listen to my own music. He doesn’t need to be tough on me. If anything, he’s the one who tries to stop me from doing more. He knows what my limits are. It’s evolved really well: because

we live together he sees how tired I am at night or how fresh in the morning.

We’re a real partnership. We got married in Florida in 2008 and honeymooned in Las Vegas, which was fun. It’s important to take holidays and let your mind and body relax. We’ve been lucky everything has worked so well. It could all have fallen apart as soon as we tried it, but it works.”

‘Often you don’t know who’s kicked you… let’s just say there are certain people you don’t want to stand next to in the start line’ Tonia Couch, 23, lives in Plymouth and has been picked

for GB’s synchronised diving team.

“I don’t like to make a splash. There shouldn’t be any splash at all – the bigger the splash, the worse the dive, as a general rule.

I’ve been a gymnast since I was seven, but I’m working very hard now; without a doubt, the hardest I’ve worked in my life. I love it.

The water is my element. We’re water babies. I’m competitive, I’ll admit that. I love competing and I definitely like feeling competitive.

Inside our team, however, we’re not competitive: we just spur each other on to greater heights. For example, I’m always so chuffed when Tom Daley does an amazing dive. When the boys on synchro won a medal, we saw and it felt great, and then we went on to win one straight away afterwards. After that, Tom Daley won his medal.

It’s how it works. We’re all encouraging one another.

For breakfast, I eat a bowl of Special K and a few pieces of wholegrain toast to keep me going. I don’t need a huge amount of fuel because I’m repeating and perfecting one movement, not covering huge distances. For a break I’d have a Nutrigrain bar.

There’s definitely no alcohol for me at the moment. We’ve worked with nutritionists so it’s all planned out for us.

As an athlete, you’ve got to do what you need to do to be strong.

It’s about being strong; not being beautiful. I don’t think about my looks in that way. That said, you’re quite exposed on the board because your hair is always slicked back off your face, so some waterproof mascara is a bit of a winner. Even if you forget it’s there

‘As an athlete, you’ve got to do what you need to do to be strong. It’s about being strong, not beautiful’

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PHOTO BY URBAN DECAY

Synchronised diver Tonia Couch

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Paralympian Sophia Warner

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and you rub your eyes, it doesn’t come off. And your face is really hitting that water hard. My teammate also wears it – I let her borrow mine.

Of course I get nervous. Nerves are good. I relax by talking to friends, keeping myself busy and happy. I don’t have any charm for good luck, because where would I be if I lost it? Diving takes its toll, of course: I’ve dislocated my elbow and my knee and I had a stress fracture in my thumb in 2007. And I’ve had tendonitis, but you have to keep on going through all of it.

My parents work as a nurse and a bus driver. They’ve travelled the world supporting me. It’s upsetting if I disappoint them. If I win, I get a buzzy feeling that lasts for days.”

Sophia Warner, 38, holds two International Paralympic

Medals. The 100m and 200m sprinter lives with her husband Haydn and two young children, Lucca and Felix, near Dorking in Surrey.

“There’s not a day goes by that I don’t dream about winning. I try not to, but I can’t help it. I’m an extremist by nature. Whatever I do, I do 150 per cent. That means I train to the absolute maximum.

For me, that is 30 hours a week, divided between the gym, track and physiotherapy. I like to look in the mirror at night and know that I couldn’t do any more. But I don’t know what my competitors are doing, so I can only do my best. I’m very logical, so I try to develop the mentality that you can only control the controllable; and that means a personal best. The only thing I want to achieve at the Games is to run the fastest I’ve ever run.

I have cerebral palsy, which is the most prevalent disability in the world. It means brain damage caused at birth. It comes in many forms.

It can be extreme – the Prime Minister’s son had it so severely, he died. It can be mild. It can lead to deafness, disabilities or learning difficulties.

People usually have the perception that someone with cerebral palsy doesn’t have all their marbles and I hope I’m an example that that’s not always the case – I can string a sentence together and have an impact on the world in my own way.

I have difficulty walking because of signals from my brain. As an ambulant athlete I’m rated a T35, which means I’m the most disabled out of a wheelchair. In the Paralympics I will be competing against people with the same level of disability. The other way of judging races is to award points, like a golf handicap, which is a great system. For example, in the European championships I appeared to be coming last, with about five or six people ahead of me, but after they worked out the points, I won two medals because I’d done best in my category. This system means more races can take place, which helps raise the profile of Paralympics.

I’ve been competing for 14 years and the sport has just gone from strength to strength. People still think Paralympians are trying to prove something. I’m not. I’m just having a really good time. I’m not resentful and I don’t have an angry bone in my body. I don’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone except, scarily, myself.

I am sure there are some Paralympians out there with a chip on their shoulder. I’ve met people like that. I often do motivational speaking and sometimes I’ve been sent to inspire disabled people who, unfortunately, as with some able-bodied people, just can’t be

inspired. They’re not happy with the card they’ve been dealt and sport is not for them.

When I was growing up, I was never treated differently from my two siblings. It was never even mentioned that I had a disability.

I certainly wasn’t allowed to wallow or get out of doing anything.

I lived exactly the same life as my siblings. If they did help me with bags or anything, they never said, ‘Let me help you,’ so I never really noticed. One thing I did realise later was that we moved to a bungalow soon after I was born, probably for my benefit.

I read medical science and business at De Montfort University in Leicester, then I worked in marketing for Nestle and BT and finally for P&H, a wholesale distributor based in Brighton. But when Britain got the Olympic Games, I decided it was a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to raise my profile and to raise the profile of disability, so I gave up my job. It was a big moment. I knew I could get my sponsors to make a financial commitment to me.

My husband, Haydn, who’s a very laid-back surfer type – thank goodness, or otherwise he’d have left me – encouraged me all the way. We moved house and rented something we could afford more easily, my children changed schools and Haydn even built us a bed, high up in the rafters on a platform, so my new gym equipment could fit in the house. I’ve just secured the role of commercial director for UK Athletics, so that has been a massive breakthrough in terms of my future after the Olympics.

I grow all my own food, because I like to know what I’m putting in my body. I keep chickens, so I eat a lot of eggs and I eat meat at

‘My husband is a very laid-back, surfer type – thank goodness, otherwise he’d have left me’ least once a day, but it’s always very carefully picked out and organic. My children have never known anything but an athlete’s diet, unfortunately for them. It’s the way they’ve been brought up, without a treat cupboard. At friends’ houses, they just stand by the crisp cupboard.

It’s impossible to know who is going to turn up to compete at the Games. The population of disabled people in China is bigger than the population of Great Britain. This means they find athletes.

I’m prepared for surprises. In the warm-weather holding camp in Portugal, where we assemble until five days before the Games, I will miss my family, but I also know it’s the right place to be. I’ve got a job to do.

I believe in myself and my coach tells me I’m a talented athlete, so whatever condition I’d been born with, I think I’d have been doing this anyway. The fact that I’m this good, while having brain damage, suggests I’d have been good anyway. I can’t say that none of this is to do with my disability. Some of it must be a will to overcome. But, for better or worse, this is what I’m like, on or off the track. a The London Olympics will take place until 12 August. The Paralympics are from 29 August to 9 September AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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‘It was the last pair, they were in the sale, and they were my size so it was like, “God is telling me to buy them”’

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My top shop

“My shoes are my babies”

She’s a fashion TV presenter, style journalist and accessories designer, so no wonder Louise Roe’s relationship with her clothes is more than close, says Stephanie Hirschmiller

PHOTOGRAPHS BY DIETER BRANDENBURG; HAIR AND MAKE-UP BY ERIKA DE LA BARQUERA

L

ouise Roe, 30, began her career as a style journalist before TV came calling. A natural on camera, she went on to become an early adopter of online television, starting up Vogue TV, which she presented, directed and scripted: “There was no budget or team but it was amazing. I remember saying, ‘I want to go to Oscars,’ and they said, ‘If you can get it paid for, go.’” So she blagged hotel rooms and flights and off she set.

Originally from Surrey, it was Louise’s travel journalist father who first inspired her to write – not to mention to travel. These days, she divides her time between London (her best friend’s flat in Maida Vale), LA and the rest of the world – and is currently filming the third series of MTV makeover show, Plain Jane: “It’s like a romantic comedy movie in an hour; I take a young girl with no self-esteem or confidence and we spend the week together doing everything from shopping to jumping out of aeroplanes and swimming with sharks – anything that jolts her into facing fears and appreciating life.”

This year, she presented US channel ABC’s coverage of the Oscars and the live stream of Louis Vuitton’s AW12 show – both in the space of a couple of weeks. Of the former, she says that the backstage action – watching an off-duty George Clooney chatting to Prince Albert of Monaco – was “even more surreal than the gig itself… and then Charlize Theron walked by and literally brushed past me!” At Vuitton’s Paris extravaganza, with its purpose built steam train

(at a rumoured cost of eight million euros – “even the the whistle the conductor blew was made of diamonds”), she buttonholed Gwyneth Paltrow (“She’s divine; I’d spoken to her at the Oscars a week before and she remembered me”) and got to interview Marc Jacobs in one of the train’s carriages. “We had a laugh – he was chain-smoking and had these huge diamond buckles on his shoes and then he showed up to the after-party in a pink dress.”

As for her own wardrobe, she feels happiest in bright colours from high-street Zara and Forever 21 to William Tempest and Holly Fulton – “On TV, you can’t really wear black, as it doesn’t come up well” – and loves the boho aesthetic of the 1970s and the style of Nicole Ritchie and Kate Bosworth. Getting dressed, “I always start from the bottom,” she says, “with shoes.” Favourite designers include Christian Louboutin – “I bought a pair of gold lattice sandals when I first got this show [Plain Jane]. They were the last pair, they were in the sale, and they were my size so it was like, God is telling me to buy them” – and Camilla Skovgaard. “My shoes are like my babies,” she confesses. It is, therefore, a good job that she has a parallel career as an accessories designer with her own range of shoes and jewellery for the online store StylistPick every season: “I start with a mood board and have a massive scrapbook in LA that I’m always adding to.”

Roe’s jet-set lifestyle means she shops worldwide, citing current favourites as American Rag in Hollywood (“It’s this awesome shop that’s vintage, stocks homewares and it’s also got a café”), Intermix in New York (“like Browns but a bit less expensive”) and hip independent boutique Oxygen over here in No Ho for its treasure trove of stylish US labels such as Alice + Olivia. She’s also a big Selfridges fan. This autumn, she is starring in Jimmy Choo’s 24/7 campaign as one of the brand’s new ambassadors. She’s also styling herself – of course – and can’t wait to get cracking.

Louise wears pyjama suit by Alice + Olivia at Oxygen and wedges and jewellery from her own high summer collection for StylistPick stylistpick.com/ louise-roe. Oxygen, 38 Eastcastle Street, W1, oxygenboutique.com AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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“I ALWAYS GO BACK TO PUNK AND ROCK ’N’ ROLL, WITH

GLAMOUR THROWN IN”

Kate Moss can wear whatever she likes and look fabulous, so how on earth does she pick an outfit from her giant walk-in wardrobe? She keeps the skirts short, wears black and asks the nanny’s advice, she tells Stephanie Hirschmiller

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i, I’m Kate.” She walks over to greet me, extending couturiers, but she knows exactly who she is when it comes to her own personal style. “I always go back to a bit of punk, and rock ’n’ her hand. And it’s not one of those perfunctory celebrity wet-fish specials, either, suggesting roll thrown in with a bit of glamour. You see these amazing that the ‘name’ in question has hand-sanitizer creations that people make, and you’re like, ‘Wow!’ But it’s not on standby. It’s a proper, decent shake. Moss is necessarily something you’d wear. Not day to day, obviously. But they are incredibly visionary in what they do.” in Barcelona, sitting on the judging panel for the fourth Mango Fashion Awards – the Spanish brand’s annual It is telling that Kate’s own designers of choice all share her clearly design competition to nurture emerging talent – and we’re in a defined sense of self. Of what makes them stand out, she says, “I meeting room in the city’s Mandarin Oriental – a hotel so grand think just being original and having a take on everything. The that it boasts a gilded drawbridge entrance that feels like a giant designers that I know, that I’ve worked with for years, have always gold catwalk. stuck with who they are inside. It’s not just a fashion thing; it’s what Kate plops down on the sofa. I say ‘plops’; but actually it’s more they believe in. It's their life, in a way. People like Vivienne of a glide, executed with languid elegance appropriate to one (Westwood) and Lee (the late Alexander McQueen) always have sporting a black tux jacket, tight jeans in a pale wash and ripped their own take on everything and it runs through every part, every at the knees and black caged-heel sandals. A German journalist element of their lives. I think that’s what makes somebody like that dithers as to the etiquette of sitting next to her, but she motions different from someone who just likes fashion. I don’t look at him in. something and go – adopts a faux sarcastic tone – ‘Ooh, that’s in “So your rider doesn’t stipulate, ‘must have sofa to self ’?” I ask. fashion,’ and go and buy. It’s just a feeling, really. I think sometimes “Models don’t have riders,” she giggles. when girls are really trendy they look amazing. I just don’t do that.

With 14 sell-out collections for Sir Philip Green’s Topshop under If I don’t feel comfortable wearing something, I won’t wear it. If her belt as a designer, Moss certainly brought more to the Mango panel than her status as the brand’s current face. So did she find it easy to decide on the winner? “No! It was hard! I mean, there are so many elements in what makes a winner, it’s really difficult – there’s always a piece that catches your eye.” What was she looking for? First and foremost, MINI OR MAXI FOR MATCH YOUR MANI TO UNCOMFORTABLE it was “how they used their materials and the SUMMER? YOUR PEDI? WEARING FUR? Mini, always – get the legs No. I mix it up, but I usually Not technicality.” She was also anxious to tap into her out. If you’ve got a tan, have lighter fingers and in London. I think a lot of commercial awareness and to look beyond her own you’ve got to. darker toes. people wear it in London. style. She explained that she would ask herself, EXPOSED SHOULDERS WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE WHAT PERCENTAGE “How would I see that on a runway or in a fashion OR LEGS. WHICH IS OF ADVICE YOU’VE OF YOUR WARDROBE shoot? It’s not necessarily what I would wear, but SEXIER? EVEN BEEN GIVEN? IS VINTAGE, DESIGNER you can still see there is intricacy in a design work.

Either, but not both at the Keep things simple. Don’t AND HIGH-STREET? “It’s important to have this contest, because it same time. overdo it.

There’s more vintage there, I think. Vintage, then helps young people – it costs a lot of money to put designer then high-street.

WHAT COLOUR SAYS CAN YOU OVERthings together, to put things out there and to manufacture. So I think it’s essential to support young, up-and-coming designers [the winner scoops €300,000].” What would she wear from the winner, Wisharawish Akarasantisook’s, collection?

“The blue latex coat, or the motorbike trousers.”

She may have her pick of the world’s top

K AT E S T Y L E :

SS12 TO YOU?

ACCESSORISE?

Black. Everyone says ‘pastel, pastel, pastel’; but no.

I do pile it on if I feel like a change, but generally I keep it simple.

SHOULD YOU EVER

DO YOU EVER FEEL

WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU BOUGHT? A white vintage Bill Gibb dress from Rellik.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: INEZ AND VINOODH. HAIR: SAM MC KNIGHT. MAKE-UP: WENDY ROWE. STYLIST: GERALDINE SAGLIO. LOCATION: BIG SKY STUDIOS LONDON

JACKET, £59.99 TOP, £9.99 SKIRT, £44.99; all Mango, as before

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Clockwise from left: Moss at the fourth Mango Fashion Awards ceremony; judging the competition; with Isak Andic, owner of Mango

something doesn’t work well for me, on that day, for myself, I won’t wear it.” So it’s about comfort, I blink? “Not comfort as in ‘heel or flat,’” (you’re unlikely to see Moss doing the school run in Crocs, after all) “but as in, your image; the person that you are inside.”

In fact, that’s why Moss is such a champion for the style of our own capital – she singled out designers Jonathan Saunders and Christopher Kane and expressed admiration for “young people who don’t care what other people think. They just go out and dress for themselves. There are ‘trendy’ people, but they make their own trends.” Another way in which she sets herself apart from the herd is her love of vintage – citing Rellik and Portobello Market as favourites. “I always seem to find a treasure in Portobello. And I go to secret little places, ladies with lots of clothes ! ” It’s refreshing to note, though, that she’s also a fan of the high street.

“It’s always a thrill,’ she enthuses, “getting something for a good price! You just get things that are well-made and fit well, that you don’t have to pay a fortune for.”

She does admit to the odd wardrobe crisis, though: “I don’t really think about [being a style icon]. I can’t think about it, otherwise I’ll get all paranoid about what I wear. I just try not to think about it. I’d get very self-conscious, I think, and then it would all go out of the window. I just dress for myself.” When it comes to getting ready, she (somewhat sheepishly) admits to rather a large walk-

in wardrobe. “I just, kind of, start trying things on. I’m very spontaneous. I ask whoever’s in the house for advice; my husband, my daughter, my nanny…”

Actually, it sounds as if the real fashion fiend chez Moss is her nine-year-old daughter, Lila Grace. “No, she never asks me (for style advice), never! She gets dressed and I’ll say, ‘I’m not sure about that,’ and she’ll say, ‘I like it!’ She puts all her looks together and I’m like ‘wow!’ They [Lila’s contemporaries] are really ahead of the game. She’s very strong in her opinions. So when I come downstairs, if she likes it [what I’m wearing] I’m alright.”

Moss is bronzed, freckled, and honed. Seriously honed. You can tell that from the glimpse of thigh visible through, and completely unspliced by, the ripped jeans: she still looks as fresh as when she started out in fashion two decades ago. I ask her what the biggest difference is between now and then, when she was posing for Corinne Day as a young teenager.

“Everything’s just faster, everything’s so available, online shopping and all that is amazing.” She singles out blogging as an important vehicle for the speed at which trends are disseminated: “to know what people are wearing on the street, even if you’re not in the same city. That’s incredible, that’s really exciting – all these young girls blogging. It’s like, wow, impressive!” She means it too. a Kate Moss is the face Mango's AW12 campaign, mango.com

‘Lila is very strong in her opinions, so when I come downstairs, if she likes what I’m wearing, I’m alright’

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ROSIE WOLFENDEN, DINNY HALL, CHLOE MACINTOSH, NIKKI TIBBLES, ARABELLA DYMOKE, SOPHIE CORNISH, BEC ASTLEY CLARKE, JUDE OWER, KANYA KING

24/07/2012 15:59

The secrets of

my success Make mistakes, move fast, never give in… and hire people who are better than you. London’s top women entrepreneurs reveal how they made it

Nikki Tibbles, florist

Age: 51 Business name: Wild at Heart What it does: Floristry How long has it been running?

I started the business 18 years ago, after a career in advertising. It was a leap of faith giving up a well-paid job and starting all over again, but it was the best decision I ever made.

What fi rst gave you the idea?

I was asked by a friend to do her wedding flowers and found that I really enjoyed making beautiful arrangements.

I have always wanted to work in a creative environment, which is why I originally went into advertising, so when I discovered my love of working with flowers, it was the perfect medium to express my creativity.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome?

Learning how to manage people as the company grew. Learning how to let go of things is something that I still work at, but I think this is something that every person who owns their own business struggles with.

Who was your mentor?

Constance Spry, the famous British florist, has always been a big influence

in my work. Her style of using beautiful English flowers and arranging them in a loose and natural way was an inspiration. The florist Jane Packer was very kind and supportive when I first started out.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur?

Employ people who are better than you.

It is something that I always try to do when I am looking for new staff.

How close did you come to shutting down?

There have been tough times, especially during the recession, as flowers are a luxury. But we have had to adapt, finding new ways of pushing our product and working out what our customer’s needs

and wants are.

What saved the business?

Expanding over the years. We have an events department, where we work on everything from private parties to weddings and corporate dos; we run a contracts business where we do regular flowers for private homes and businesses; and recently we launched a homewares division which we sell online and from our Pimlico shop. A big move to expand the business was to offer nationwide delivery. We have also developed our website and ramped up the social media side of things with a blog, a great Facebook page and a wedding blog.

What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur?

I think you need to have passion for what you do and determination to make the business a success. You will always have good and bad days but you have to have a positive attitude that will get you through and make things work.

What’s your philosophy?

Treat people as you want to be treated yourself and always give that little bit more. wildatheart.com AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Sophie Cornish, retailer

Dinny Hall, jeweller

Age: 50 Business name: Dinny Hall What it does: Jewellery design and retail.

How long has it been running? 26 years.

What fi rst gave you the idea for the business?

I was always going to do my own thing and, since I had a degree in jewellery design, what better business to go into?

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome?

Getting the right person to look after our finances.

Who was your mentor?

Several helpful and encouraging people have provided me with a loan at the right time, advice, encouragement when times were difficult and fuelled my belief in my creativity.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur?

Make ‘Can Do’ your motto.

How close did you come to failing?

I have teetered on the edge more than once: what saved the business was not just a positive attitude, but a sense of humour and perspective even at the worst times. This allows clarity of mind to prevail.

What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur?

1. You need to have good ideas and keep having good ideas. 2. You need to see those ideas through. 3. You must be a good leader. 4. You must be able to empathise with others and get the best out of others as a result of that empathy.

5. You must be inspiring. 6. Have a good sense of humour. 7. Self belief is essential – believe that whatever you set out to do is possible. 8. Know your limits – you can reach for the stars, but not beyond.

What’s your philosophy?

Always have the time for those you love and for what you love. dinnyhall.com

Age: 46 Business name: Notonthehighstreet.com What it does: The website offers curated collections of original and inspiring products from the best small creative businesses. The company has grown from its initial network of 95 small business partners to over 3,000, who sell over 50,000 products between them.

How long has it been running? Six years.

What fi rst gave you the idea for the business?

We came up with the idea after Holly Tucker ran a series of upmarket fairs called Your Local Fair. There were hundreds of small companies wanting to showcase their unique products. Holly realised there was a huge gap in the market for these businesses that didn’t have a strong route to market which is when she contacted me. We came up with the idea for Notonthehighstreet.com, the online marketplace.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome?

Actually, one of the most stressful days we had was launch day. We had spread the word and secured several press features announcing the launch of our site. A week before launch we knew that we had promised the impossible. We decided to flip the launch into a ‘preview’. We were still able to showcase the site but it just wasn’t transactional. Thankfully, everyone loved it enough to come back.

Who was your mentor? We have never had a single mentor, more a series of friends who have supported us and provided insight, a guiding hand and supported our belief in ourselves and the business.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur?

Own your mistakes. People who are ready to claim their failures as well as their successes inspire real confidence and are the most impressive long-term. Simon & Schuster has just published our book, Build A Business From Your Kitchen Table, which has many more tips, along with our own story.

How close did you come to failure?

We did come very close during our first Christmas. The company was growing so fast and servicing our customers and small business partners was costing more than we had, so we nearly ran out of money.

What saved the business?

We looked for venture capital funding.

It was a long process finding the right partnership but, in the end, it was the best decision for us. SPARK Ventures are still integral to our board.

What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur? Ambitious, determined and hard-working.

What’s your philosophy: Work hard then work even harder. It will be exhausting but it’s essential and, in the end, worth it.

‘A week before launch we knew that we had promised the impossible’

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Bec Astley Clarke, jeweller

Age: 39 Business name: Astley Clarke What it does: Astley Clarke is a luxury jewellery brand. We sell jewellery designed at our London design studio and jewellery collections from over 30 international jewellery designers. We

also sell in Harrods, Liberty and from our London showroom.

How long has it been running?

Six years.

What was the biggest hurdle for you to overcome?

People’s outdated beliefs that it is impossible to create a luxury brand online. One of the most important things is to understand and predict the evolution of luxury consumers who buy at their desk – whether they be bankers, doctors, solicitors, and regardless of gender.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur?

Persevere and do not be afraid of failure.

How close did you come to closing down?

No business can afford to be complacent.

What saved the business?

Amazing jewellery and a great team What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur?

One that refuses to take no for an answer.

What’s your philosophy?

Go precious every day: I don’t believe that fine jewellery should be confined to special occasions. astleyclarke.com

‘Thinking fast without dwelling on the consequences allows you to adapt to the market. Making errors is almost the most efficient way to learn’ Chloe Macintosh, retailer

Age: 37 Business name: Made.com What it does: The website allows customers to buy direct from furniture factories, cutting out the middle man. It also offers a platform for designers to showcase their products. Our aim is to democratise good-quality, unique designs.

How long has it been running?

Made.com was founded in March 2010 by Ning Li (CEO), Julien Callede (COO) and me (creative director). Since the launch, our Notting Hill-based office has collaborated with artists including Ai Wei Wei, Damien Hirst and the Chapman Brothers, as well as designers such as John Stefanidis, Steuart Padwick, James Harrison, Jimmie Martin and the Dare Studio.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome?

Our business model was based on grouping enough customers to reach minimum-order quantity from suppliers. When we first started, we struggled to get suppliers to agree to working with us. After many rejections, we managed to convince a large UK upholstery supplier and a couple of Asian ones to buy into the idea and help us launch the business. We are now working with a large and varied network of suppliers and it is satisfying to have them come to us now.

Who was your mentor? The founder of Lastminute.com and chairman of Made.com, Brent Hoberman. I had trained as an architect and didn’t know much about the digital world, so I was extremely lucky to get the chance to learn everything I know from someone like Brent. The biggest learning curve was changing my way of thinking. In architecture, it takes an average of four years to complete a building and no mistakes

are allowed. The more you plan, the fewer issues you have throughout the process. With a website, thinking fast and executing fast without dwelling for too long on the consequences allows you to evaluate solutions and adapt to the market. Making errors is almost the most efficient way to learn and evolve.

How close did you come to shutting down?

By getting the customers to vote for the products that they want to buy, rather than having shops or stock, we limit some of the risks associated with traditional retail. However, people who buy from us are ‘smart’ buyers: they have expectations and knowledge of the services that they should receive. The only way we managed to keep going was to connect with our customers, recognising our mistakes and showing them how passionate we are about our products, quality and service.

What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur?

What the most successful entrepreneurs I have met have in common is their ability to challenge the current way of approaching a problem. Being able to look at a situation with a completely different view point is a unique skill. Made.com reverses the traditional retail process by selling an item before it is even made. This has allowed us to bypass the most constraining and risky parts of a very archaic industry.

What’s your philosophy? A quotation from Darwin: “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.”

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Rosie Wolfenden, jeweller

Age: 34 Business name: Tatty Devine What it does: Produces jewellery handmade in England.

How long has it been running?

Since 1999.

What fi rst gave you the idea for the business?

Harriet Vine and I met at Chelsea school of Art. When we graduated, we didn’t want to get ‘proper jobs’ so we started making and customising things to sell on a market stall. That led to us supplying Harvey Nichols, appearing in Vogue, opening a shop – and we have never looked back.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome? The fact that we weren’t going to become painters.

Who was your mentor?

In some ways, Harriet and I have been mentors to each other. Other than that, I would consider Thelma Speirs and Paul Bernstock from Bernstock Speirs as mentors. Their shop is next to ours in Brick Lane, and they opened a couple of months before us. We instantly struck up a friendship, but their experience and knowledge have been invaluable as well as their love of conversation. Having someone to discuss trade shows, products, suppliers and customers with is vital.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur?

Never to be afraid to ask for help or advice and make sure you love what you do, as it’s much easier to sell things you are passionate about.

What saved the business?

Hard work and determination.

What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur?

You need to have faith in yourself, be bold and not be afraid of hard work. tattydevine.com

Kanya King MBE, music executive

Business name: MOBO Group What it does: Produces the MOBO Awards, which attract the largest primetime multicultural audience in Europe. Over the years, artists performing at the Awards have included Janet Jackson, P Diddy, Mark Ronson, JLS, Tinie Tempah, Dionne Warwick, Tina Turner and Jay- Z. The organisation also hosts the annual MOBO Tour, which champions emerging talent by touring the UK. And, via our website, we also give emerging talent a platform by way of MOBO TV acoustic sessions and interviews. We also put on seminars and workshops to support up-and-coming talent or to guide young people wanting to have a career in the music industry.

How long has it been running? 17 years.

What fi rst gave you the idea for the business? I saw a gap in the market. Music that was being enjoyed in clubs up and down the country wasn’t getting radio play nor was it being honoured by awards shows.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome? Putting on the very first MOBO Awards show in 1996 was an enormous hurdle. We secured a broadcast slot on national terrestrial TV and had six weeks to produce the show. I recruited a team and re-mortgaged my home to fund it. Thank goodness it was a huge success.

Who was your mentor? My mother is my biggest role model. She was a woman who managed to juggle many roles, including raising nine children. She faced adversity with solutions, was resourceful and possessed a unrelenting determination, which led her to fulfill a lifelong dream of starting her own hotel business when she was in her 70s. She instilled in me the confidence to go for it even if people are telling me that I can’t.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur? Passion, an ability to prioritise, persistence and great people to work with. The four ‘P’s.

How close did you come to failing? I have never considered it.Challenges are opportunities in disguise. This belief is what keeps me driven.

Founded by Doug Richard, a former BBC What saved the business? Having a Dragon, the School for Creative Startups ‘can do’ attitude. I don’t believe that I aims to give talented creative people from the worlds of film, art, design, fashion and possess any extraordinary skills; it’s all in even food the business nous to make their your approach. In life, it is not about any ideas a reality. An advisory network including special luck, education or even money: some of the most creative entrepreneurs in it’s 85% attitude and only 15% ability the country – from Natalie Massenet of netaporter.com to Anya Hindmarch, Sir Paul that makes anyone successful in business.

Smith and David Bailey – will teach people What kind of temperament do you how to run a successful creative business. need to be a successful The School for Creative Startups is looking for 100 budding creative entrepreneurs of entrepreneur? You have to be strategic. any age and background with a strong Passion is important. I get excited if business idea to apply for the 2012 things go well, but when they don’t, I’m programme. Applications close 15 August, equally passionate about fi xing them. with term starting in September.

Please visit schoolforcreativestartups.com for What’s your philosophy? With the more details. right advisors, plans will succeed…

THE SCHOOL FOR CREATIVE STARTUPS

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Jude Ower, philanthropist

Age: 32 Business name: PlayMob What it does: We have built games software which does charitable fundraising through existing games. This allows game-players to see all the good they have been doing, just by playing.

How long has it been running: Four years.

What fi rst gave you the idea for the business?

I have been involved in games for 12 years now; specifically those that make an impact, that are educational, train people or raise awareness. I loved the idea of using games for charities to teach about a cause and raise money. I had set up the business to create games, there was a much bigger, more valuable opportunity to create middleware so existing games to get into fundraising and applying this as an extra game layer, and feel-good factor for the player.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome?

Changing the business from a creative boutique game developer model to a middleware product company.

Who was your mentor?

Bill Liao, co-founder of Xing.com and diplomat, investor, entrepreneur, business mentor, speaker, philanthropist and author; and Jo Haigh, multi awardwinning entrepreneur and trainer. Bill prepared me for some of the challenges I would face and helped me to realise my fears so I did not let them get the better of me in situations. Jo helps me to understand how I can best use my time.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur?

Expect the unexpected.

How close did you come to shutting down?

Changing the model was difficult as it involved a whole new way of thinking. It was very lonely too. You can ask for advice and help, but getting through the rough times is down to you, the entrepreneur.

What saved the business?

Perseverance, belief and the ability to be patient and impatient at the same time. It was also focus. Even though there will be so much getting thrown at

‘You can ask for advice and help, but getting through the rough times is down to you, the entrepreneur’

you, you have to keep running and make a beeline for that focus.

What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur?

You have to be determined, openminded and flexible. You have to stay calm to get things done and done well, but you also need to be impatient to do things quickly. You have to be energetic, work hard and play hard. Aggression is a very bad trait in terms of stunting growth of a business and holding back creativity. You have to be a very open, calm person and be prepared to work the long hours and do whatever it takes – it is all down to you and your choices, so this is your responsibility.

What’s your philosophy? There is always another way. If something doesn’t happen the way you thought it would, try again in a different way, with the same goal in mind. With perseverance, you will crack it.

Arabella Dymoke, online publisher

Business name: Thegoodwebguide.co.uk What it does: It’s an online guide offering its visitors a more taste-driven and selective alternative to search engines, whilst also championing small web-based businesses. It has grown its online presence with initiatives such guest-edited newsletters, in which high-profile individuals such as Delia Smith, Frankie Dettori, Sebastian Conran, Kelly Hoppen and celebrity photographer Richard Young all spill the beans on their favourite sites and the annual Website of the Year Awards, all enabling The GWG to become the definitive authority on everything that is good about the web.

How long has it been running? Since 2000.

What fi rst gave you the idea for the business?

The idea came from a friend of a friend and, at the beginning, we published books and had the website.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome?

Buying out my fellow partners in 2007. The recession has presented its own problems but, given we are a small company, we can adapt quickly.

Who was your mentor?

There have been several along the way, but all have given me the same advice, which is to believe in yourself and your abilities and you’ll succeed.

What is your best tip for a budding entrepreneur?

Don’t give up. When you’re low or are short on success, just keep going. Rewards come to those who work hard for them.

How close did you come to shutting down?

In the early 2000s, the company was affected by the dotcom bubble.

What kind of temperament do you need to be a successful entrepreneur?

Dogged determination. It’s liberating working for yourself and helping others.

AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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THE

RUNAWAY

BRIDE With a surprise marriage, a movie and a West-End play, Agyness Deyn is making waves this year, says Will Lawrence Photographed by Christopher Sims

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V FOR VENDETTA DRESS, £88, Aqua by Aqua (aquabyaqua.com) AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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JACKET, £735; and trousers, £459, both Paul Smith (paulsmith.co.uk) ELFIE SHOES, £140, Kurt Geiger (kurtgeiger.com) 52 | AMUSE

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T

o call 2012 a whirlwind year for Agyness Deyn is an understatement on a par with suggesting that we’ve had quite a damp summer. When she and I spoke at the start of the year, Deyn was a single fashion model, taking her first tentative steps along the path to a new career as an actress. Now, she’s a married woman, on the cusp of becoming a bona fide movie star, with some theatrical chops to boot.

In late June, Deyn shocked commentators by announcing her marriage to American character-actor Giovanni Ribisi. Ribisi, a Scientologist, played Phoebe’s brother Frank in Friends and then starred in The Rum Diary with Johnny Depp, and in Avatar. Now she says they’d been going out for “a while” but, a few months ago, she’d told she me she was single. In fact, almost everyone was surprised by the news that the couple tied the knot at the Los Angeles County Registrar. “Cat’s out of the bag!!!” tweeted Deyn’s sister. “Congrats to my sis… and mi [sic] new bro-in-law Giovanni.”

Deyn and I met several times for this piece, our first liaison occurring on the set of her forthcoming British independent movie, Pusher, squatting on the steps of a church hall in Dalston.

If ever she yearned for Hollywood glamour, this really wasn’t it.

“It’s not like I was looking for that,” she begins. “It’s just that I got to a point where I didn’t do much modelling for a while. I wanted a break from it to see what I really wanted to do.”

Her career as a model has earned Deyn a fortune, her CV littered with stellar names — Armani, Mulberry, Burberry and Westwood — and she even replaced Angelina Jolie as the face of Japanese cosmetics house Shiseido.

“But I stopped enjoying modelling as much. Because it changes as you get older. I did it for ten years and I started feeling as though I was on autopilot.”

She adds, “It was very full-on and very fast. I just needed something more. It was then that I decided I really wanted to try

acting and it was so empowering to make that decision; to really do something for myself.”

Deyn (born Laura Hollins) is a languid, quietly spoken and somewhat dreamy woman, far removed from the ebullient party girl I was expecting. She speaks slowly with a soft Lancastrian brogue and seems young for her 29 years. Acting-wise, she first dipped her toe in the water with a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it turn as Aphrodite in the 2010 Hollywood blockbuster Clash of the Titans.

“It was the tiniest role. I didn’t say anything; it was more a visual thing. I have a pink wig on.” She’s also starred in several short films.

Her part in Pusher, however – an English-language remake of Bronson and Drive director Nicolas Winding Refn’s début film in Danish – is much more demanding. She stars as Flo, a stripper and heroin addict and the love interest of the film’s central character, a small-time drug-dealer played by Richard Coyle.

“When I first read the script, I thought they would want something really sexy, but the part’s not like that,” says Deyn. “You can see that the character has a real awkwardness and vulnerability.” She pauses for a moment, before adding: “It is strange, though. I keep thinking all the filmmakers are going to figure out that I am an impostor.

But I am learning on the job as best I can.”

She underrates herself: Coyle describes her as “a natural” and the filmmakers cooed over her tender and fragile performance, alerting the casting director for the stage play The Leisure Society, who was so impressed that he handed Deyn her theatre début this spring. “I thought I would be terrified,” she says of her performance at the Trafalgar Studios earlier this year, “but I wasn’t, strangely. I felt really comfortable with it.”

This year she’ll begin work on her first leading film role, an adaptation of the Scottish novel Sunset Song, in which she’s set to star alongside Peter Mullan. Things are starting to take off.

Like many heroines in the movies, however, when her call to adventure first came, Deyn hesitated. “I originally got spotted in Manchester standing outside McDonald’s, but I didn’t take that

‘I thought I would be terrified on stage but I wasn’t, strangely. I felt really comfortable with it’

AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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PHOTOGRAPHS: CHRISTOPHER SIMS; ASSISTED BY NICK THOMPSON; AND POST-PRODUCTION BY 55FACTORY. STYLING: VALENTINA TIURBINI; ASSISTED

BY ANNELIE BROTTARE. HAIR AND MAKE-UP: CELIA BURTON AT MANDY COAKLEY, USING ALL MAKE-UP BY CHANEL SS12 AND HYDRA BEAUTY SERUM

DRESS, £235, Nanette Lepore (020 7221 8889) PATENT-LEATHER SANDALS, £415, Marni (marni.com)

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up,” she says. “I then came down to London because I didn’t know what course I wanted to do at university, so I thought I’d hang out with my mates while I decided.”

One day she was out in Kentish Town with Henry Holland, now a celebrated designer, whom she’s known since she was 12, “and I got spotted again. I was like, ‘OK, this is the second time, so maybe I can do this.’”

She says that her mother’s support, emotional and financial, was vital. “I worked hard with the modelling for years before I got financial success and there were points where I needed my mum to transfer £100 in to my account so I could make the next trip.

“When you are doing all the Fashion Weeks and going round to see ten clients a day and not getting anything for ages, you are like, ‘Oh, what is wrong with me?’ But there is nothing wrong with you; and I needed that support from my mum.”

Her mother, however, did not always approve of her daughter’s choices. “When I was young, I dyed my hair bright pink and then shaved it off and mum was like, ‘What have you done?’” As Deyn remembers when I ask about her childhood in Lancashire: “My sister was the same. She had dreadlocks.

“Mum would buy us matching Laura Ashley dresses and then my sister would go out to family dos with piercings and tattoos and I’d have a shaved head. It was so funny.

It has come full-circle, though, and actually we both wear quite girly stuff these days.”

Deyn and I meet for a second time on the day of her aMuse photoshoot at London’s Corinthia Hotel and she arrives in a soft, flowery dress and a pair of Adidas trainers.

“I don’t know that I have a personal style,” she says when the conversation turns to fashion. “Yesterday I wore a big sweatshirt and jeans. It just changes. I feel it’s simplified a lot.

“From the age of 15 to when I was 26 or 27, my style was full-on with lots of experimenting and crazy punk outfits, but then I felt, ‘OK, well, I did that.’ I wanted to be a bit simpler.”

Life in general, she says, has become simpler and healthier, especially since she moved to LA. The partying of her catwalk years has taken a back seat. I saw her this spring at a film magazine award show, from which she headed home as soon as her on-stage duties were done. “I went to the same awards once before,” Deyn recalls. “Me and my boyfriend at the time were invited in 2008 and I remember getting really wasted and meeting all these cool people.

(Above) With Richard Coyle in Pusher; (below) and in The Leisure Society

‘When I was young, I shaved my hair off and my mum was like, “What have you done?”’

This year I just did my bit and then went home and watched it on telly in my PJs.” She was glad to head back to the US and feels settled on the West Coast. “I am happy living in LA. I have a lot of friends there and I wanted to feed into that lifestyle a bit more, to be outdoors with the sun and to be healthy.

Griffith Park is right near my house and you can hike up a massive hill and then you can see the sea from the top and Hollywood, and you can drive to the beach. I love it.”

Though her acting career is taking off, Deyn says that she’s grateful for the opportunities modelling gave her. “It is just like a stepping stone,” she says, “Before, my career chose me. Now I’m choosing my career. I really feel as though it is my choice to do this, to try and become a good actor; and it feels really good to be assertive.” a AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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THIS

SPORTING

LIFE Get on track – fashion now comes with go-faster stripes Photography: Christopher Sims Styling: Fran Mullin

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JUMPER, £355, Sportmax (020 7518 8010) BRIEFS, £52, Wildfox (wildfoxcouture.co.uk) SUNGLASSES, £205, Miu Miu (Sunglass Hut: 0844 264 0860) AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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JUMPSUIT, £185, Lacoste (020 7439 2213) EARRINGS, £200, Delphine Charlotte Parmentier (dcp-corp.com) 58 | AMUSE

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SWIMSUIT, £315, Roksanda Ilincic (Selfridges, 0800 123400) TROUSERS, £325, Tim Soar (avenue32.com) SHOES, £240, Hogan Rebel (hogan.com) VISOR, £20, Stella McCartney for Adidas (adidas.co.uk) BELT, £210, Stella McCartney (net-a-porter.com) RINGS, £315, Maison Martin Margiela (net-a-porter.com) AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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COAT, £1,086, DVF (dvf.com) COLLAR, £161, Maison Martin Margiela (020 7629 2682) SWIMSUIT (worn underneath), £315, Roksanda Ilincic (Selfridges, 0800 123400) TROUSERS, £325, Tim Soar (avenue32.com) 60 | AMUSE

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TOP AND BRIEFS, £200 for set, Felder Felder for Triumph (brownsfashion.com) SHOES, £962, Sergio Rossi (020 7811 5950) RING, £272, Henrietta Lofstrom at Kabiri (kabiri.co.uk) CUFF, £280, Atelier Swarovski (atelierswarovski.com)

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CROP TOP, £92, Lucas Hugh (www.lucashugh.com) TROUSERS, £375, Mother of Pearl at The Shop at Bluebird (020 7351 3873) BELT, £210, Stella McCartney (net-a-porter.com) AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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TOP, £65, leggings, £80, both Stella McCartney for Adidas (adidas.co.uk) SHOES, £715.50, Marios Schwab (020 7249 3202) CUFF, £395, earrings, £200, both Delphine Charlotte Parmentier (dcp-corp.com)

With thanks to Westfield Stratford City Model: Heidi Rock at Premier Fashion assistants: Katie Tillyer and Jenny Tzakova Make-up: Lisa Potter-Dixon, head make-up and trend artist for Benefit Hair: Nadia at Foster London Hair & Beauty Photo assistants: Nick Thompson and Joe Barbour Post-production: 55factory AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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accessories

Studded trainers, £505, Giuseppe Zanotti (020 7838 9455)

Striped canvas trainers, £280, Marc by Marc Jacobs (020 7399 1690)

Rebel trainers, £210, Hogan (hogan.com)

Purple hi-tops, £385, Lanvin (luisaviaroma.com)

Blazer vintage trainers, £90, Liberty x Nike Blazer (liberty.co.uk)

GET IN TRAINING

Leather hi-tops, £460, Yves Saint Laurent (luisaviaroma.com)

Fran Mullin’s pick of the sneakers

Hi-tops with London skyline print, £520, Gucci (020 7235 6707)

Blue-lined trainers, £70, Keds (keds.co.uk)

Wedge trainers, £262, See by Chloé (my-wardrobe.com)

Hi-tops, £405, Mother of Pearl (avenue32.com)

ACNE A/W12

Brown trainers, £15.99, New Look (newlook.com)

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Suede trainers, £325, Jimmy Choo (020 7823 1051)

Trainers, £99.99, Tamaris (tamaris.de)

Tiger-print trainers, £360, Giuseppe Zanotti (net-a-porter.com)

White leather trainers, £60, Palladium (palladiumboots.com)

Superga 2790 platforms, £70, Superga x Henry Holland (schuh.co.uk)

‘Toby’ shoes, £265, Alejandro Ingelmo (Dover Street Market: 020 7518 0680)

Printed hi-tops, £225, Mulberry (020 7491 3900)

Silver trainers, £95, Adidas by Stella McCartney (0870 240 4204)

White jogging shoes, £75, La Redoute (laredoute.co.uk)

Swarovski crystal leather hi-top trainers, £1,395, Christian Louboutin (net-a-porter.com)

Low-tops, £90, FitFlop (harveynichols.com)

‘Ma Polka’ trainers, £105, Veja SP (asos.com)

‘Marathon ’84’ trainers, £60, Ellesse Heritage (zalando.com)

‘Logan’ trainers, £65, Dune (dune.co.uk)

‘Nokill’ hi-top trainers, £100, Forfex (farfetch.com) AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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REVIVAL300x220 aMUSE FASHION_Layout 1 23/07/2012 16:07 Page 1

GOODWOOD REVIVAL

“A

m e i ” t n i k c a b p e t s l a c magi

14 .15 . 16 SEPTEMBER For the latest event news follow us on and Admission strictly by advance ticket only • For tickets or hospitality please call: +44 (0)1243 755055 or visit

www.goodwood.com

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Sequins, pearls, beading… when it comes to embellishment, more is more, says Fran Mullin

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1. Top, £38, Lipsy (lipsy.co.uk) 2. Bag, £755, Marni (marni.com) 3. Biker boots, £810, Giuseppe Zanotti (luisaviaroma.com) 4. Trousers, £149, Hobbs London (0845 313 3130) 5. Pearl necklace, £198, Dsquared2 (020 7235 5000) 6. ‘A Simple Routine’ top, £645, Sass & Bide (harveynichols.com) 7. ‘Achilles’ yellow gold bangle, £748, Imogen Belfield (kabiri.co.uk) 8. Beaded skirt, £50, Topshop (topshop.com) 9. Shorts, £30, River Island (riverisland.com) 10. Heels, £1,130, Dsquared2 (020 7235 5000) 11. Sequin cardigan, £59.99, Mango (mango.com) 12. Embroidered clutch, £2,385.07, Dolce & Gabbana (luisaviaroma.com) 13. Printed-panel cardigan, £670, Versace (net-a-porter.com) 14. Tunic, £65, Autograph at M&S (marksandspencer.com) 15. Shoes, £250, Marni (marni.com) 16. Lace dress, £799, Alexander McQueen (farfetch.com) 17. Gold jacket, £550, Theory (020 7985 1188) AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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ACNE A/W 12

Plum job

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1. Leather bracelet, £60, Moxham (kabiri.co.uk) 2. Clutch, £400, Theory (020 7985 1188) 3. Leather and metal belt, £29, Cos (cosstores.com) 4. Leggings, £32, Wallis 5. ‘Chardwell’ dress, £555, The Row (harveynichols.com) 6. Yas Silver at BrandAlley gloves, £4.50 (brandalley.co.uk) 7. Bag, £7,673, Zagliani (020 7235 4124) 8. Dress, £159, NW3 by Hobbs (0845 313 3130) 9.

Nude leather heels, £380, Marni (luisaviaroma.com) 10. Dress, £299, Paul Smith Women (paulsmith.co.uk) 11. Skirt, £99, Per Una at Marks & Spencer (marksandspencer.com) 12. Two-tone satchel, £880, Dsquared2 (020 7235 5000) 13. Wool dress, £418, Jil Sander (stylebop.com) 14.Sunglasses, £279, Burberry at David Clulow Selfridges (020 7318 3313) 15. Red dress, £485, Theory (020 7985 1188) 16. Leather dress, £2,795, Alexander McQueen (matchesfashion.com) 17. Necklace, £35, Cos (cosstores. com) 18. Seam-detail leggings, £1,359, The Row (farfetch.com)

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1. ‘Kimmy’ boots, £50, Monki (monki.com) 2. Printed skinny jeans, £230, See by Chloé (net-a-porter.com) 3. Sunglasses, £178, Stella McCartney at David Clulow Selfridges (020 7318 3313) 4. Diamond-print blazer, £49.50, M&S (marksandspencer. com) 5. Bra, £12, Monki (monki.com) 6. ‘Bao Bao’ Bag, £96, Issey Miyake (020 7495 2306) 7. Dotty skirt, £99, Jaeger (0845 051 0063) 8. Taffeta top, £635, Giambattista Valli (net-a-porter.com) 9. Top, £89, NW3 by Hobbs (0845 313 3130) 10. Silver skirt, £35, Dorothy Perkins (dorothyperkins.com) 11. Printed tote bag, £165, Marni Edition (farfetch.com) 12. Checked knitted jersey dress, £435, M Missoni (harveynichols.com) 13. Print top, £390, Jonathan Saunders (matchesfashion.com) 14. Heels, £595, Nicholas Kirkwood (020 7499 5781) 15. Coat, £349, Hobbs London (0845 313 3130) 16. Silk shirt, £349, Paul Smith Women (paulsmith.co.uk)

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aMuse Magazine 2012: Aaron Basha advertisement (Right Hand Read)

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A good yarn

Get kitted out in knits this autumn, says Fran Mullin

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1. Bracelet, £98, TAI (kabiri.co.uk) 2. Jumper, £345, Markus Lupfer (my-wardrobe.com) 3. Bat-print sweater, £95, Zoe Karssen (matchesfashion.com) 4. ‘Falabella’ bag, £790, Stella McCartney (matchesfashion.com) 5. Skirt, £79, Phase Eight (020 7471 4422) 6. Knit dress, £743, M Missoni (my-wardrobe.com) 7. Checked trousers, £45, Betty Jackson (debenhams.com) 8. Jumper, £24, Monki (monki.com) 9. Heels, £795, Nicholas Kirkwood (020 7290 1404) 10. Owl sweater, £795, Burberry Prorsum (matchesfashion.com) 11. Single-breasted coat, £885, Armani Collezioni (harveynichols.com) 12. Jacquard dress, £355, McQ

by Alexander McQueen (my-wardrobe.co.uk) 13. Jacket, £129.99, United Colors of Benetton (0845 768 1813)

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NICK COX

t o w n

Are you tough enough for a man massage?

W

e may drive at speed and ski off-piste, but it takes real balls to drop a crop-sleeved kimono in a room reeking of ylang ylang.

Once I shuddered at the mere mention of massage; now I’m being touched up on a regular basis. What’s more, I’m as relaxed with the firm fingers of a female therapist as I am down with some man-on-man action. Some may need reminding that only films provide ‘happy endings’, but a true gentleman never confuses massage with sensuality, swingers, or Soho.

Perhaps I should thank athletes for getting my ‘man massage’ back on track? With their constant spa visits during training, recovery and rehabilitation, they have changed public perception of massage and proved that there is really nothing at all girly about this particular brand of body maintenance.

New spas are being constructed with people like me in mind and they are elegant, dark and luxurious. With its amphitheatre sauna, black mosaic steam room and men’s areas hewn from marble, Espa Life at The Corinthia, in Whitehall (right), is a modern temple to the cult of the body. No wonder men are flocking here to worship the body beautiful. In this environment, pampering and indulgence give way to resultsdriven bodywork. Whilst I’m drooling face down (it’s the sign of a good massage), I receive the holy grail of back rubs.

Sports-trained masseur Jesus uses his fingers, thumbs and elbows in slow strokes, applying pressure across my muscles and into their connective tissue. By the time you read this there should be a waiting list.

(Personalised Massage £95 for 50 mins / £145 Massage Oil, Facial Massage Creme and ONCE, SPA for 80 mins.)

Natural Soy Candle come in a zippered black MENUS SOUNDED At Aromatherapy Associates, even the case that wouldn’t look out of place in your essential oils have been working out and tool box (£51 from vitamangrooming.co.uk).

INDULGENT BUT Once, spa menus sounded indulgent, but bulking up. Clearly blending for blokes NOW THEY READ produces powerful oils, and its Black Pepper, now they read like gladiatorial challenges LIKE GLADIATORIAL Rosemary and Ginger Oil is as warming and and it can be difficult to navigate this sort of CHALLENGES relaxing as of a drop of the hard stuff. When minefield. Knowing your pain threshold will applied firmly and fearlessly by my masseuse, be the key in enjoying this experience. Yes, Michelle, in a Swedish and cross-fibre massage technique, my stiff and aching the best new treatments may have a sports ‘influence’, but muscles open up, bringing instant relief. (Intensive Muscle Release Treatment only Olympians should attempt a full-blown Sports Massage. £60 for 90mins / £90 for 120mins.)

Maybe you enjoy writhing around in agony to a Jon Bon Jovi Shyer types should purchase spa-themed products and experiment at soundtrack and being left immobilised for days? I don’t, home. Champneys launches its Sports Therapy Range this month and the because I’ve been there. But then – maybe you are more of a Cool Muscle Rub and Revitalising Muscle Rehab Bath Soak have both been man than I’ll ever be.

Nick Cox is a style consultant and editor of designed to rest and relax men’s overworked bodies. All-natural Aussie brand thegroomingguide.com VitaMan has gone even further and created a portable massage kit. Its Body AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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BETHAN COLE

Blue lips, orange eyebrows and lilac hair – welcome to extreme beauty

CATWALK SHOT: PRADA AW12

F

ull disclosure: I do not have a sporty bone in my body. Thus, I have great admiration for athletes, Olympians, Paralympians and even the merely physically fit.

However, what I hope that sporting activity and bodily endeavour of any stripe do have in common with my approach to beauty is the striving for a state of fearlessness.

With beauty, in my opinion, it’s all about travelling out of your comfort zone and taking self expression to new extremes, about playing, about creativity, about joy in colour (especially when you’re young) – and not about some prissy Stepfordian striving for conformist perfection.

Six years ago, long before the arrival of Lady Gaga and Katy Perry and their version of extreme celebrity beauty, I was wearing black and blue and green lipstick (even on TV, where I got lambasted for it by beige and homely sofa queen Lorraine Kelly), I was dyeing my hair fire engine-red, wearing it cut in an aggressively short fringe and in all kinds of weird and wonderful architectonic buns. These days, I feel my experimentalism was vindicated somewhat by the arrival of stars within the pop canon who were even more morphic and adventurous than me – from Gaga to Nicki Minaj.

And it seems that this sense of fearlessness is (finally) creeping into the once-conservative beauty industry at large. When I met with a whole bunch of beauty company representatives the other week, not only were black and Asian women finally visible, but there was glorious nonconformity, too – one with lilac hair (hello, Charlotte from MAC!) and another with a nose ring (hello, Jen from Armani!) – which would have been inconceivable 15 years ago when I started ‘I WAS WEARING writing about beauty. Back then, the beauty company girls were without exception soignée GREEN LIPSTICK, I and Sloaney-looking, with immaculate blowWAS DYEING MY HAIR dries, natural make-up, Pashminas and kitten FIRE ENGINE-RED heels – polished and professional, but very Catwalk beauty for AW12 was a carnivalAND WEARING IT CUT esque array of experimental looks to take cautious and conventional in their demeanour.

So things have evolved for the better. Some IN AN AGGRESSIVELY inspiration from, such as the orange eyebrows months ago, Illamasqua announced that and violent black eye colour at Prada (above), SHORT FRINGE’ ‘Apocalips’ – a blue/turquoise lipstick – had blue lipstick and turquoise wigs at Jeremy been its best-selling colour of the season. And even Estée Lauder – which Scott and micro fringes at Versace. My favourite of all was 20 years ago was terribly conservative, WASP and mainstream – now has a the joyously naïve painterly make-up conceived by Florrie glorious gunmetal-grey lipstick launching in its autumn colour collection: White for Meadham Kirchhoff – if I were 19 again, I’d be very early-80s bleak Mitteleuropean ‘Ultravox’ video, Visage’s ‘Fade To Grey’ trying to replicate elements of this exuberant bricolage promo or, indeed, Bowie’s ‘Ashes to Ashes’. maquillage in my own bedroom.

AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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24/07/2012 10:12

Beauty News ULTIMATE HEALTH CHECK If you’re curious about your overall health but don’t

3

OF THE BEST

FAKE TANS FOR BEGINNERS

 JAMES READ BB GRADUAL TAN, £20.50, 50ML One for… glamour on the go. Click, brush on and blend. Heavenly gold-striped packaging too.  HE-SHI DAY TO DAY GRADUAL TAN, £14.50, 200ML, HE-SHI.EU One for… an all-over instant tan. Use on face and body a couple of times a week for a lovely natural tint.  ST TROPEZ WASH OFF INSTANT GLOW BODY LOTION, £12.26, 150ML One for… fickle self-tanners. You can be gorgeous and glowing one day, pale and porcelain the next.

want to bother your GP with the what-ifs and whys (in other words, if you’re a total hypochondriac), why not have the professionals at Randox Health Checks give your body the service of a lifetime? Randox has been supplying the medical industry with cutting-edge blood tests for years and now it has brought its skills and technology to the high street with a sparkling new centre (left) near Liverpool Street Station. It has the most extensive diagnostic screening menu in the world and all customers are offered a follow-up phone call or consultation.

Randox Health Checks’ six screening packages range from £150 to £1,195. randoxhealthchecks.com

SEEK SANCTUARY The Sanctuary Spa was originally founded over 35 years ago as

a place for the The Royal Ballet ballerinas to unwind and relax. This summer, it has revisited these roots and launched the Active Reverse Skincare range, with a youthful-looking Darcey Bussell as the face of the product. We love the Leave-on Exfoliating Cream and the Lipid Recovery Facial Oil, £22, which sinks in to the skin like a dream. thesanctuary.co.uk

WORDS: ARABELLA PRESTON

TRY ME… What: Slender Cow Total Body Where: Cowshed, Shoreditch House What’s it like: As your therapist sets about your prone limbs with a body brush, you realise that this place ain’t called the Cowshed for nothing. Phase one is swiftly followed by phase two: a thorough scrubbing with the brand’s detoxifying body scrub and finally a massage in which cellulite-busting serum and firming body butter all combine to steer you on course for toned perfection. The rest is up to you.

Results: While this treatment should not be mistaken for a cellulite panacea, it certainly revives dull skin, leaves you smooth as a new-born calf and gives you the resolve to hit the gym.

Details: £105, Cowshed, various locations, 020 7534 0871, cowshedonline.com

DAVINES’ DIVINE DETOX Davines makes genuinely innovative yet naturally derived products that look and smell good. The Detoxifying Scrub Shampoo (£14.35) will blast summer grease and pollution away. Used once a month, it leaves your hair squeaky clean and your scalp invigorated. Available from Beauty Mart, Harvey Nichols. davines.com

CHANEL POPS UP

Chanel Beauty is quickening our pulses once more with the launch of a pop-up beauty boutique in the heart of Covent Garden. Open until December, the space will see top make-up artists such as Lisa Eldridge and Kay Montano sharing their skills, preview exclusive products and host special make-up classes. There may even – be still, our beating hearts – be make-up vending machines. Check out the boutique’s very own website for the low-down on all the latest happenings. chanelatcoventgarden.com AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Beauty NARS LAGUNA BRONZER £25

BY TERRY SOLEIL TERRYBLY AUTORADIANT TINTED SERUM £58

THE BEST BRONZER AROUND: SOFT, SUBTLE AND A LOVELY SHADE OF TAN

USE BEFORE (OR INSTEAD OF) FOUNDATION TO GIVE YOUR SKIN A SUN-KISSED SHEEN

CHANEL ILLUSION D’OMBRE EBLOUI £23

USE YOUR FINGERS TO SMUDGE THIS LONG-WEARING EYE MOUSSE IN TO THE LASH LINE AND EYELID

CHANTECAILLE CHEEK CREME IN COY £29 POP HIGH ON YOUR CHEEKBONES FOR A DEWY GLOW

CHANEL BROWN EYE PENCIL £17

ROUGHLY SMUDGE INTO THE LASH LINE, THEN USE YOUR FINGER TO BLEND

LATINA LOVELY

No one does sun-kissed quite like the Brazilians, so look to Issa for your summer beauty inspiration, says Arabella Preston

CARMEX £2.54 FROM BOOTS, SUPERDRUG, TOPSHOP AND URBAN OUTFITTTERS A SMEAR OF LIP BALM IS ALL THAT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS NO-FUSS LOOK

IF YOU MUST WEAR FOUNDATION, MAKE IT THIS ONE. SHEER AND LIGHT, IT WILL ENHANCE RATHER THAN COVER

ELIZABETH ARDEN EIGHT-HOUR CREAM FRAGRANCE FREE £25, BOOTS

THE ULTIMATE MULTI-PURPOSE BEAUTY PRODUCT, THIS CULT CLASSIC WAS USED TO BRUSH THE MODELS’ BROWS UP AND HOLD THEM IN PLACE

SMASHBOX ILLUMINATOR £20.50

TAP ONTO HIGHLIGHT POINTS LIKE UPPER CHEEKBONE, BROW BONE AND CUPID’S BOW

TRY ME… For: Dry skin and nails What: Pedicure with natural extracts of orange Where: Bliss Spa, 60 Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DD What it’s like: It may be raining outside,

but you’ll get a taste of summer as your feet soak in a bath of orange slices while you sip the accompanying freshly squeezed juice.

Dry skin is sloughed off with a deliciously fruity scrub before polish is applied. The treatment also includes a free bottle of polish in a hot orange.

Results: Smooth, sandal-worthy feet and a polish that lasts for weeks.

Contact and price: 020 7590 6140, £61.30

CATWALK SHOT: ISSA SS12

A

t the SS12 Issa show, make-up artist Kay Montano looked to the brand’s Brazilian heritage as inspiration for her beach goddess look. Imagining “times shooting on the beach with Mario Testino, with a little Bo Derek thrown in” was all this maestro required as reference.

To recreate the look, Montano suggests applying a powder bronzer with a soft, rounded brush around the edges of your face, in subtle downward motions, mimicking how the sun hits you. Crucially, you need a non-terracotta bronzer that’s only a couple of shades darker than your own skin. “This will ensure your skin looks naturally sunkissed, rather than reality TV star.” A pop of pink cream blush on the apples of the cheeks will keep you looking fresh and will “lift” the bronzer.

To complete the look, smudge a soft brown eyeliner pencil into the lash line, brush eyebrows up and out, then finish with a hydrating lip balm. Rio, here we come.

CHANEL VITALUMIERE AQUA £32, 30ML

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When it comes to looking good the Italians know a thing or two.

Made in Italy, BlanX non abrasive whitening toothpaste is the only cosmetic toothpaste made from natural Arctic Lichen to give you a brilliant white smile gently, everyday. Magnifico!

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STUNNING NATURAL WHITENESS FROM ITALY. 01/06/2012 12:08

Beauty DIPTYQUE LES FLORALES EAU ROSE £60, 100ML YARDLEY ROYAL ENGLISH DAISY £9.99, 50ML VALENTINO VALENTINA £53, 50ML

GUCCI FLORA GLAMOROUS MAGNOLIA £72, 100ML

DIPTYQUE FRAGRANCE FITTING REVIEW What: Personal fragrance fitting, half an hour Where: Diptyque, Westbourne Grove What it’s like: Sit back in the elegant boutique,

surrounded by pretty perfumes, and inhale the aromas of scented candles wafted in front of your nose. Based on what you do (and don’t) like, you’ll then smell a selection of perfume strips, before being spritzed with different combinations of your favourites – all accompanied by knowledgeable, friendly insight. Hair colour, outfit and occasion can all be taken into consideration.

Results: I practically skipped out of the store, high on floral fumes, smelling glorious and feeling thoroughly educated about fragrance. And armed with samples of Eau Rose and Tam Dao. Details: It’s free! Just remember to book in advance. 020 7727 8673, diptyqueparis.com

MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN AQUA UNIVERSALIS FORTE £140, 70ML

MARC JACOBS DAISY £45, 50ML

THE SCENT OF SUMMER

From bluebells to violets, flowers are your starting point for a fragrant August, says Arabella Preston

ESTEE LAUDER TUBEROSE GARDENIA £57, 30ML

LANVIN JEANNE £55.50, 100ML

T

his is the year of the overtly floral perfume, with heavenly launches from Gucci, Marc Jacobs and Valentino to name a few. They’re a little bit old-fashioned and we like it. Jo Malone’s Wild Bluebell is a knock-out, managing to achieve modern sex appeal with plenty of English country garden thrown into the mix.

Lanvin’s Jeanne takes the delicate violet as its theme, whilst Gucci Flora has launched Glamorous Magnolia, a light and fresh scent, perfect for summer evenings.

JO MALONE WILD BLUEBELL £76, 100ML

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24/07/2012 16:58

the strength of diamonds

Rescue & Repair Renunail Strengthener Restore & Maintain Renunail Sensitive

SCAN TO VIEW WEBSITE

Condition & Grow Renunail Nourishing Oil

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24/04/2012 15:26

HAIR Three hairdressers, whose clients include Elle Macpherson, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Alexa Chung and the Duchess of Cambridge, have just set up shop together in Notting Hill. Arabella Preston enjoys the Josh Wood Atelier experience Photographs by Nicholas Kay

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ALEXA CHUNG IN VERO MODA. PREVIOUS PAGE: THE JOSH WOOD ATELIER

TODAY AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Clockwise from far left: James Pryce; Josh Wood; George Northwood; the drawing room at the Atelier

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T

hrough unmarked black lacquer doors in an inconspicuous mews house in Notting Hill, some of the world’s top hairstylists and their camera-shy clients come and go.

Unpretentious, despite its exclusivity and name, this is the Josh Wood Atelier, a place that seeks to right all the wrongs of modern hair salons.

The hushed and light-filled interior, with its pale wooden walls and sleek Scandinavian furniture, is half World of Interiors drawing room, half the studio of a hip architect. A living wall of glossy green le a ve s i s r e f le c t e d i n a bank of mirrors and gone are the traditional hairdressers’ stations, replaced by a long, communal table. Customers are given iPads with which to amuse themselves as they wait and are offered detox smoothies or snacks created by the Atelier’s in-house chef. It is a place formed in the image of its founder: modern, luxurious and playful.

Everybody loves Josh Wood.

No, really: PRs, beauty editors, models… He is the man a very particular type of London woman has on speed dial. Laura Bailey wrote an open love letter to him in a recent blog for Vogue – ‘Letter from a Blonde’ – where she praised his “magic mixology and mood-changing hair genius” whilst lamenting “the Hollywood starlets and supermodels who keep you way too busy for my liking”.

Laid-back, yet focused and driven, Wood, 45, moves effortlessly between charming salon clients, planning the expansion of his Atelier with his business partner Lorraine O’Brien and hosting conferences in his role as creative director of Wella. His career is unique: never before has a colourist risen to such prominence in the world of fashion. He trained at Vidal Sassoon, working with session stylist Ray Allington, but swiftly realised that his future lay

in colouring, not cutting. “I wasn’t very good at styling and I was much better at colour,” he says in his soft Northern accent. “There weren’t many colourists, especially men. As I got more established and my clientele built – more celebrities, deeper relationships – the more I was singled out then as the colourist who’d do X.” Of his long relationship with Elle Macpherson, he says, grinning, “I’ve known Elle for twenty years and she’s a good friend. She has the best hair known to man. Although I do feel more and more that one needs to be less defined by who one does than what one does.”

Wood may, in fact, come to be defined, not by his clientele, but by his staff. For he has put together a hairdressing dream team, bringing to his Atelier – amongst others – the darling of the young London fashion scene, George Northwood, and the man who scooped the gig of the century as the Duchess of C a m br id g e ’s we dd i n g hairdresser, James Pryce. It was Wood’s vision to establish his Atelier as a “creative hub,” and the September launch of the Atelier Agency, which will look a f ter h i s te a m’s ed itor ia l bookings, will see this vision come to fruition.

It has long been the way for top hairstylists that, at a certain point in their lives, the choice has to be made between an editorial career, styling for magazine and advertising shoots, and traditional salon work. Where the Josh Wood Atelier differs is in providing a space for top stylists to do both. All the hairdressers are freelance, meaning that they manage and adapt their careers as they see fit. As Josh describes it, “I was really just looking for an atelier, just me by myself. Very quickly, when people began to hear about what I was doing, it became evident that a lot of people were at a similar juncture, where they didn’t want to be just salon hairdressers, or session hairdressers, or working on films. They wanted the diversity and to feel more in control of their own career.”

‘That whole Kate blow-dry thing doesn’t really reflect my work. I much prefer precision cutting. People don’t want the big, bouncy blow-dry any more; it’s a bit naff, to be honest’

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EVA RINALDI, FLICKR. REX FEATURES

Clockwise from left: a long, communal table replaces traditional hairdressers’ stations; clients, the Duchess of Cambridge; and Elle Macpherson; the Atelier lies behind unmarked lacquered doors in an inconspicuous Notting Hill mews

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The location of the salon was also something that happened organically. Notting Hill, despite its cash and cachet, has long been a hairdressing wasteland, with natives forced to head south to Chelsea or west to Mayfair to see a top-end stylist. Although tempted by these high-profile locations, Josh realised the answer lay on his doorstep. “I live here,” he says, laughing. “Why would I make it more complicated for my clients that live around here too?”

Joining Wood in W11 in November last year was the boyishly handsome Northwood, 34, previously creative director of Daniel Hersheson. He is best known for tending the tresses of Alexa Chung and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, whom he got to know in his early days at Hersheson. “There were lots of new models coming through.

A lot of the other stylists wouldn’t work with the new faces as they don’t always pay. I made a lot of sacrifices and worked really hard and I met those girls. So it’s about not saying no. In fact, I’ve only really just started to say no now, 10 years on.”

His career followed these girls in to the studio and subsequently onto the red carpet. However, he says he would never give up his salon work. “I’m a creature of habit; I like routine. That’s the part of working in the salon that anchors me. My haircuts don’t look like haircuts. My blow-drys don’t look like blow-drys; I make hair look cool. When people are in my chair I spend less time cutting and styling their hair and more time telling them how they can get this look at home quite easily.”

For nine months after leaving Hersheson, Northwood wasn’t allowed to see any of his old clients (a move typical of the industry).

Since this period came to an end at the beginning of June, he has been overwhelmed by his clients’ loyalty. “It never ceases to amaze me how loyal people are to their hairdressers. I was somewhere for eight years before this and I was the new kid for nine months; I didn’t see any old faces. So it’s been like, ‘Oh my God,’ this is my history, these are people I know. The jigsaw has fitted together.”

Pryce, too, has recently watched the clock of his non-compete clause tick down. Previously at Richard Ward in Chelsea, Pryce, 34, is a calm character who seems very much at home in the relaxed

atmosphere of the Atelier. Indeed, he seems so easygoing that one wonders if he had any idea at the time of the impact last year’s Royal Wedding would have on his career. “It was really nerve-wracking actually, preparing,” he says. “You couldn’t escape the media attention. I wasn’t doing any interviews, so journalists would just book in for haircuts and not tell me who they were. You could always tell, though,” he laughs. “They’d always send in brunettes.”

Does he hope the Duchess will return to him? “Yeah, I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’d like it. But we’ll see. You know, it was an amazing time in my career and I’m just happy to have experienced that.

What will be will be. I’m not going to obsess about it.”

In the meantime, Pryce is returning to his roots as a creative stylist (he first worked at Trevor Sorbie). “That whole Kate blow-dry thing doesn’t really ref lect my work,” he admits. “I much prefer precision cutting – I’m really into short hair on women. Long hair at the moment is more undone. People don’t want the big, bouncy blowdry any more; it’s a bit naff, to be honest. Go for loose, messy waves, long layers and grown-out fringes instead: less is more.”

This caref ul ef for tlessness per fec tly embodies the atmosphere and approach of the salon itself. All three stylists evangelize about giving women hair that they are able to recreate and care for easily at home.

Whilst the focus of the salon is on providing a bespoke service to its clients, Josh Wood’s eyes are firmly on the future of the Atelier and its team; on using the success of the Notting Hill salon as a springboard to greater things. “I think we’ll def initely open somewhere else in London,” he says, “in a different neighbourhood.

I’m only ever going to do things that are small and private, with a closed-door policy. I think, because of the nature of my work, I could see us having an Atelier in Beijing or Moscow. When you’ve got a small business that’s quite transportable, you’re open to whatever comes along – or you should be. If it’s just this, then I’m totally satisfied, but we’ve just got to so see what happens.” a joshwoodcolour.com

‘My haircuts don’t look like haircuts. My blow-drys don’t look like blow-drys; I make hair look cool. I spend less time cutting and styling hair than telling clients how they can get this look at home’

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LIFE MYWITH HELLBOY The wicked stepson isn’t the stuff of fairytales, yet. But he soon will be if writer Victoria Brook’s experience is anything to go by...

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W

hen I first clapped eyes on Hellboy, I had beansprouts palatable to tiny tastebuds and minimising their salt no idea he was going to ruin my life. An and sugar intake. So Hellboy has devised a fiendish new form angelic, curly-haired little blonde of sabotage. moppet of seven, he was my boyfriend “We’re just off to the park!” he will say. “Promise you’re not going Alex’s son from a previous relationship, to McDonald’s?” I yelp as the door closes. Two hours later, they and came to stay with us every other weekend. Like Liz Hurley, I return, smeared with ketchup and fizzing with sugar. Hellboy says revelled in part-time motherhood. I took him to Legoland when he didn’t hear me. Alex thinks it’s nice that he enjoys spending time his dad had to work, stocked the fridge with his favourite E-numbers with his brothers and of course they love being with Hellboy. Only and spent hours painting tiny soldiers for him to play war games.

I know it’s not about them at all. It’s about me.

Time passed. Hellboy grew up, developed spots and an attitude The torment continues over dinner. Hellboy serves himself a problem, and his mother couldn’t cope. So, reluctantly, I agreed he heaping plateful, then shovels food in, biting his fork with an audible could move in with us. “He’ll be with us for a year,” Alex assured ‘click’ with every mouthful. When he pauses for breath, it’s only me. “We’re just going to get him back on the straight and narrow.” to address his father on the subject of their favourite footballers, That was eight years ago. Alex and I have had two more sons. while I sit, silent, bored and ignored by both.

And Hellboy is still lurking in our basement, planning his war of And those are the good evenings. The bad ones are when he attrition against me. fi nds out what my strongly held views on anything are, then Hostilities begin at 8am, when Hellboy and I both rush for the launches into an attack. Watching the Boat Race, for instance, he bathroom. If I can get in fi rst and lock the door, I can put the cheered wildly for Oxford because I’d been to Cambridge. laundry on, have a shower, and make sure that Hellboy hasn’t, yet Yes, I’m sure this is par for the course with a teenager. But when again, purloined my special £60 a bottle keratin shampoo and they’re your flesh and blood, you must be sustained by the memory conditioner for coloured hair, then left it upside down to drain into of how they loved you once. the plug.

At other times, Hellboy is prone to doing, as PG Wodehouse But if Hellboy beats me to it, he will shower until all the hot once put it, acts of kindness out of sheer malevolence. The other water has run out, while I pound on the door, unheard. I am day I came down to the kitchen to find he’d tidied everything into handicapped by having to remember the laundry and the key to the dishwasher, including the ice-cream maker which has the words the padlock on the washing ‘No Dishwasher’ helpf ully machine. We had to install it printed on the side. Another t i me he va r n i she d some because Hellboy was putting on a wash three times a day furniture, protecting the floor t y pically, a single pair of from drips with a couple of my underpants and one vest , plus a best antique, monogrammed towel, which had been used linen sheets. When he babysits, once, then dropped to the floor. he likes to expose the boys to “I’m just saving the kids from getting fat and spotty” (when he’d eaten all his brothers’ Easter eggs) Meanwhile piles of our dirty new cultural experiences: The “Thanks for the jumper. Do you mind if I sell it on eBay?” clothes mounted to the ceiling Blair Witch Project is one that “I’m not like you - you’re so bourgeois and conventional.”

– as did the electricity bills. springs to mind, a fi lm choice “I’m not like you - you’re so bohemian and pretentious.”

“Can’t you put someone else’s which resulted in weeks of (Used interchangably) “I didn’t realise you were saving it for your dinner party.” stuff in at the same time, if you’re sleepless nights for the rest of us. doing a wash?” I once asked him “But they wanted to watch it!” ex a sper ate d ly. “ Ugh ! ” he he protested, injured by our shuddered. “I’m not putting your reproaches. dirty stuff in with mine!” It was only when the tumble dryer gave Strangely, I am fond of Hellboy and want to help him. But when up the ghost from over-use that we installed the padlock on the I found myself wearily leafleting the district in the company of my new one.

70-something parents – Hellboy had taken the job I’d found him, Our unspoken war continues over lunch. Hellboy likes to come then announced it was too boring – I realised enough was enough. back from college to eat at home. If I’ve prepared something for (Hellboy, by the way, was furious when I claimed half the cash.) him, he doesn’t touch it because it’s processed/he’s decided to be Recently, however, I’ve begun to feel confident of victory. Not vegetarian/he’s not a quiche man/he’s not hungry. But if I haven’t, because Hellboy has lost heart for the battle, but because his tenure he mutters something about selfishness, then fills up on the special in our house must inevitably draw to a close. bars that I have to source for his brothers, who are allergic to Despite his own best efforts, he has secured a place at university. peanuts.

By September, I will once again be able to shower in peace. Or so Naturally, I worry about the children’s diet. As a family, we try I thought, until he announced last week that he’d decided he wanted to eat organically. I spend hours devising ways to make soya and to take a few more A-levels instead. Let battle recommence. a

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO HELLBOY

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CELEBRATE THE BEST OF BRITISH AT COOKBOOK CAFE

Cookbook Cafe offers upscale market table fare that champions British seasonal and sustainable ingredients in an interactive culinary experience. The new weekday ‘50 Mile’ lunch menu offers a selection of dishes created from ingredients sourced within a stone’s throw from the hotel. Londoners flock to the restaurant at the weekend to enjoy a spectacular brunch. While adults relax with ‘bottomless’ Crémant and Bellinis the children can be entertained with the regular Kids Cook masterclasses – all the ingredients to guarantee the perfect afternoon for the whole family. For more information visit www.cookbookcafe.co.uk

Do you live an InterContinental life?

Cookbook Cafe is a Sustainable Restaurant Association ‘Two-Star Sustainability Champion’ Please call us on +44 (0) 20 7409 3131 Or visit us on www.london.intercontinental.com

In over 170 locations across the globe including HONG KONG • LONDON • NEW YORK • PARIS

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aMUSE

abroad

THE

WORDS: POLLY GLASS

KERALA CONNECTION Sipping a cool gin sling in the elegant, dome-shaped Ivory Bar, surrounded by beautiful water gardens, you may decide that the Bekal hotel is too good to leave.

You would be wrong, since this picture-perfect patch of north Kerala offers amazing, spotless beaches that are scarcely visited by the average Brit backpacker.

So tear yourself away from the copper and gold-leaf mural, birdcage lanterns and rain shower in your room and go for a walk – even if it’s just to the 2.5-acre garden with meditation and yoga pavilions, a fitness centre and swimming pools.

Vivanta by Taj – Bekal, from £195 per night/rates for villas and suites start at £297, vivantabytaj.com

AL FRESCO FIZZ

Milan’s many shopaholics can take a sparkling break from buying Marni and picking out Prada this summer since the Hotel Principe di Savoia is creating its very own Champagne bar, kitted out with pieces from the new Fendi Outdoor Collection.

The Champagnes have been selected by the hotel’s chef-sommelier Alessandra Veronesi, so you can guarantee your bubbles will be very this season.

Outdoor Champagne Bar, Hotel Principe di Savoia, open 6pm-midnight until September 2012, dorchestercollection.com

TUSCAN BREAK

Parts of this former castle in the Tuscan countryside may date back to the tenth century, but the plumbing’s certainly not medieval – it’s an idyllic five-star spot these days. Whether you opt for a suite in the main castle or an apartment-style ‘olive grove suite’ on the 4,200-acre estate, expect meticulous attention to detail, with beautiful authentic décor, free Wifi, iPod docking stations in rooms and an infinity pool (perfect for gazing at the surrounding hillsides). Wine tastings, ceramics classes, vineyard tours and other treats all add to the experience.

Castello di Casole, Grand Opening Offer *Book 3 nights, Stay an extra night Free* - Private Label Worldwide (privatelabelww.com, 01628 771 171) offers 4 nights in a Junior Suite on a B&B basis with return flights from London to Florence from £1,327 per person (based on 2 sharing).

Price includes complimentary use of gym, Wi-Fi, in-Suite movies, VAT and service. Bookings must be made by 31st August 2012 for travel completed by 31st March 2013.

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abroad

GET THE DOMINICAN HABIT

Just four villas and bungalows make up this Dominican resort – the ultimate in high-end privacy, dahling. A luxurious but totally eco-friendly haven backed by rainforest and looking out onto the Caribbean, it promises guilt-free fun. Read a good book in one of the treehouses (complete with floor-to-ceiling windows) in the forest canopy, try your hand at kayaking or book a private one-man jazz concert to while away the evening.

Secret Bay Resort, Dominica, from $232 per night, secretbay.dm

BRITISH BOUTIQUE BREAK

MEDITERRANEAN DETOX Barcelo La Bobadilla – a place pretty much sustained on olive oil alone – is offering a detox, anti-oxidising, oil-smothering (a very soothing process) spa package, with treatments based on locally-grown olive oil.

Head for its whitewashed Andalucían buildings for a weekend break from the city and leave feeling like you’ve been in an olive press. In a good way.

The Olive Oil Spa Package at Barceló La Bobadilla, from €168 per person. Includes overnight accommodation for two with breakfast and an Olive Oil Peel and Aromatic Massage for each person, barcelo.com

Need a holiday, but don’t want to fight through check-in?

Embrace the UK’s last chance of decent weather with a trip to this gorgeous, nautically-decorated and impeccably tasteful hotel in picturesque Salcombe (opt for a ‘J Class’ room if you’re feeling lavish). Raise your pulse with some windsurfing, have a good old browse in the town’s cobbled streets – complete with ample shopping opportunities (it’s not all Jack Wills) – then enjoy fabulous fresh crab and a vodka martini back at base camp. Rule Britannia.

South Sands Boutique Hotel, Salcombe, Devon, high-season rooms from £205 (‘Optimist’) to £375 (‘J Class’) per night, bed and breakfast, southsands.com

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WE KNOW THE LATIN AMERICA YOU’LL LOVE For individual travel recommendations and unrivalled insight, speak to the UK’s Nº1 specialist in travel to Latin America

www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk

BEST SPECIALIST TOUR OPERATOR Sunday Times Travel Magazine Readers’ Awards 2011

020 8622 8466

BEST TOUR OPERATOR TO CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA

BEST VALUE TOUR OPERATOR

British Travel Awards 2011

Sunday Times Travel Magazine Value Awards 2011

INTO THE BLUE The Raja Ampat islands of Indonesia are wild and pristine; and the only way to explore them is by schooner, discovers Lisa Grainger Few places on earth are so beautiful that they inspire travellers to build a boat. But so enamoured were four friends by the Raja Ampat islands in eastern Indonesia that they created a handsome 34-metre Phinisi schooner, with dramatic red tie-dyed sails and cabins for ten, so they could keep going back. And, rather fabulously, this year they decided to share their beloved Tiger Blue with non-friends, so we could all feel the love.

The area they wanted to explore is so remote that it feels almost otherworldly. It is utterly wild – a place where the tops of islands pop out of the sea like the backbone of some mythical dragon, where clear, gem-coloured waters teem with marine life. Whales breach as you’re having cocktails, manta rays soar by like giant underwater bats and the only footprints on the beaches are those left by turtles.

Life on the boat is equally free; because the schooner can only be hired privately, guests do what they want, when they want. While a few friends might spend a morning kayaking in remote inlets or walking dense forests, another lot might be

snorkelling with turtles and thousands of exotic fish before a barbecue lunch in a sandy cove. There is diving, fishing and snorkelling equipment for the adrenalin-lover and luxurious cosseting with sun loungers, music systems and drinks for the lethargic, as well as feasts concocted by chef Lucas Hauben, who can whip up duck confit or sushi as effortlessly as he does Thai curries.

The boat sails by wind power – if there is a wind, or a massive engine if there isn’t – and is large enough to cruise from Bali to Papua New Guinea, taking in the historical Banda Islands or the Komodos, where dragons roam the rocks. I sailed on Tiger Blue for just a few days – long enough to make me fall in love with Raja Ampat, although not quite enough to wipe my mind of the 39-hour trip to get there…

Exsus (020 7337 9010, exsus.com) offers seven nights on Tiger Blue (tigerblue.info) from £2,850 per person, including return economy flights with Cathay Pacific, transfers, full-board accommodation (excluding alcohol) and activities. Based on ten sharing.

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A VERY STYLISH CÔTE The Côte d’Azur is the fashion pack’s summer camp, and St Tropez is at the heart of the action discovers Stephanie Hirschmiller

La Réserve in St Tropez, lying but a whisker – or 19-minute, €800 journey via private helicopter – from Nice, is Karl Lagerfeld’s favourite hotel. Every summer, Karl rents one of the Reserve’s villas for himself for the duration. And another for his entourage. That’s just how he rolls.

During the summer, the roads are embouteillage central so chopper is simply the only way to travel. We weren’t staying in a villa, but in one of La Reserve’s deluxe suites. Each is set around a spa bathroom complete with central jacuzzi bath and more fluffy white towels than one could hope to avail oneself of. Bedroom to the right, sitting room to the left and glass frontage looking straight out over parasol palm trees and on to an azure expanse of Med, guarded by the Cap Camarat lighthouse.

The building itself is one of those ugly 1970 classics, given a stylish makeover by designer Jean-Michel Wilmotte – you’re not allowed any new builds in these parts, so it’s always a question of being creative. And, with its ocean-facing front made from wall-to-wall glass and suntrap terrace on the roof, said creativity won it Best New Hotel in 2011’s Wallpaper* Design Awards.

But back to the real reason we’re here. Not to stalk Lagerfeld, but to check out the hotel’s Express Fit and Beauty programme – four days of four-hour Nordic walking sessions (the ones where you march along holding a ski pole in each hand). This torture is rendered bearable due to the programme’s carrot-and-stick approach. So the Nordic agony is balanced by a Crème de la Mer facial, Swedish/Shiatsu fusion massage and seaweed body wrap. A spot of thigh-crunching aquabiking falls somewhere in between. However, a hydrotherapy session involving agonisingly strong jets of water pummelling the body to break down cellulite and wash off the seaweed wrap was just pure sadism.

The food was a tailor-made meal programme created by head chef Eric Canino – he trained under Michel Guérard, who invented Cuisine Minceur (Gallic gastronomy lite) – and basically means protein, vegetables and a lot of melon soup. It is exceptionally well-conceived. And, while cheating is not actively banned, the mere fact that you need to make a sheepish request for the bread, butter and salt you’re craving rather shames you into submission. I was far too cowed to ask for a bottle of Château Miraval from the nearby vineyard, owned by Brad Pitt.

And although I kept involuntarily visualising Lagerfeld sitting in the sauna, impeccably attired in pristine black suit and shades, he failed to materialise. Ah well. Maybe next year.

Express Fit & Beauty at La Réserve Ramatuelle, from €1,090 for full-board four-day programme, including all meals and treatments, but excluding accommodation, which costs €550 per night. lareserve.ch

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THE FRAGRANCE FOUNDATION FOUNDATION UK FIFI AWARD WINNERS FOR 2012 201 THE ‘OSCARS’ OF THE FRAGRANCE INDUSTRY

Angel – Thierry Mugler Fragrance Foundation Hall of Fame 2012

Danger Parfum – Roja Parfums Best New Female Fragrance in Limited Distribution

Elie Saab – Elie Saab Best New Fragrance for Women and Best New Female Print Advertisement

Neroli Portofino – Tom Ford Best New Male Fragrance in Limited Distribution

Gucci Guilty Pour Homme – Gucci Best New Fragrance for Men

Daisy Eau so Fresh – Marc Jacobs The Peoples Choice Award For Women

Armani Code Sport – Giorgio Armani The Peoples choice Award for Men

Justin Bieber – Someday Best New Celebrity Fragrance

Kenzo Flower Tag – Kenzo Best New Female Fragrance Commercial

ckone shock – Calvin Klein Best New Male Fragrance Commercial

Precious One – Angela Flanders Best New Independent Fragrance

Balenciaga L’Essence – Balenciaga Best New Female Fragrance Design and Packaging

Mont Blanc Legend – Mont Blanc Best New Male Print Advertisement and Best New Male Fragrance Design and Packaging

Rose de Mai Bougie Parfumee – Roja Parfums Best New Home Fragrance

Shams – Memo International Flavours and Fragrance Perfume Extraordinaire

Look out in store for all the winners of a FiFi Award. The following retailers are members of The Fragrance Foundation: Boots, Debenhams, Escentual.com, Fortnum & Mason, Harris Pharmacy, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Hoopers, House of Fraser, John Lewis, Next, Oldrids, Superdrug, The Fragrance Shop, The Perfume Shop, Selfridges, Voisins.

For a complete list of the FiFi Award winners and more information, visit www.fragrancefoundation.org.uk Facebook.com/FragranceFoundationUK

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Twitter: @FragranceFDN_UK

24/07/2012 11:37

aMUSE

at home

LA DOLCE VITA AT HOME

WHICH CRAFT?

From Kirstie Allsopp to Monty Don, everyone’s obsessed with arts and crafts these days. So we barely stopped jotting down brilliant ideas as we read this bright, colourful guide to homespun décor and individual interior styling. With pretty homemade pieces and restored flea market finds, in good-enoughto-eat pictures from inspiring homes worldwide, Selina Lake guides you through a wealth of design inspirations in a very flickable room-by-room format.

Homespun Style, Selina Lake, £19.99, Ryland Peters & Small

WORDS: POLLY GLASS

LONDON IN PICTURES

Regal London architecture with an arty twist?

From the niche furniture designer behind the Goring’s Royal Suite, the Berkeley and most of the new Savoy? Yes, please.

Interiors man to the rich and famous (including HRH Prince Charles) Tim Gosling has produced a lavish book of iconic old London photographs, set alongside his own new sketches of them - accompanied by some engaging history and secrets about Buckingham Palace. Well, he should know…

London’s Secrets: A Draughtman’s Guide, Tim Gosling, £20, Endeavour

From H&M shop floor worker to Home Collection Co-Ordinator for Polo Ralph Lauren in Europe, Italian-born Maurizio Pellizzoni, 39, has climbed the interiors ladder with panache. Now running his own business, MPD London, he attracts swathes of wealthy clients, such as footballer Joe Cole and his wife Carly, who want to achieve the Ralph Lauren look. He lives in Lewisham with his partner Chris and their chocolate Labrador, Arthur.

from Lake Como and my home-town is an important influence on who I am and my design values. The changing seasonal colours create the most beautiful natural transformation throughout the year.

TELL US YOUR INTERIOR DESIGN

WHAT IS THE PERFECT INTERIOR?

TRENDS FOR 2012...

I like to combine classic style with luxurious detailing, but always with an emphasis on comfort. I love to keep traditional design fresh with a modern twist, combining classic Ralph Lauren pieces, for example, with bespoke table lamps and a beautiful crystal chandelier.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU? The main influence on my design comes from my travels; I learn something new every time I visit a place. I went to Cape Town for the first time last year – the architecture and design was so fresh and interesting.

Comfort and practicality: since people are spending more time at home they can’t just have a room that’s aesthetically pleasing without being comfy. Large dining areas: there’s growing demand for replicating the glamour of a beautiful hotel or restaurant.

Quality finishing: people are moving away from mass-produced design and towards that which reflects their personality.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR INSPIRATION?

DAY OFF...

Ralph Lauren taught me to pay attention to detail; it transforms a space. Books are fundamental to a room, for instance. I am

Having brunch with friends; I love Italian food and Princi in Soho is my favourite. mpdlondon.co.uk

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LONDON LIVING?

Shoreditch House on sunny days.

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT

HOW TO BE A LINEN LOVER...

Bedtime never looked so sumptuous. Thanks to L&B London’s newly opened design studio – the only bespoke bed linen service in London – you can invest in personalised bedware, as well as dressing gown-andslipper sets, towels, children’s cashmere sleeping bags... (seriously).

“It’s all about customisation now,” French owner Leonora Beaubois tells us. “People want the bespoke service.” No, really, we do.

L&B London Design Service, lblondon.com

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interiors

A WORKING

crosses, Hari and Bo. I’m most definitely a dog person and I don’t think Hari and Bo would be very impressed if I brought a cat home…

From the window, I can see the garden, driveway and surrounding fields, but the most important bit of the house for me is, of course, my wardrobe. I designed a walk-in wardrobe space with a team of shop fitters, so I would be able to see all my clothes and accessories, making it easy Fashion e-tailer Sarah Curran, 38, started out as a sub-editor for The Times to get ready in the morning. I have far too Online, but swiftly progressed to fashion with her first boutique, Powder, in many clothes, shoes and bags, but they are Crouch End, stocking the likes of Marc Jacobs and Paul & Joe, before launching a perk of the job. I invested a lot in fitting My-wardrobe.com in 2006 of the wardrobe as I wanted floor-toceiling mirrors, with a carpet and good lighting; often the things that stores forget.

I see parallels between my fashion sense and my have lived in Great Bowden in Leicestershire for 18 months now. interiors tastes: they are both classic with a modern edge.

As soon as I saw the house I knew it was my dream home – it’s a large I have taken a traditional French style of interior and given light brick two-storey house built in 1900, that you reach via a it a modern edge with a unique character. The colour beautiful, winding tree-lined driveway with fields on either side. palette is grey and white and I have taken French-style The shell was there, but we completely gutted it and made it our own furniture and then accessorised the rooms with modern from top to bottom. I live with my partner Tom Usher (art director for paintings and ornaments.

Harper’s Bazaar) my son Jake, who’s eight, and our two pug-shih tzu

WARDROBE

Clean lines, antlers, an at-home cinema and a huge closet make Sarah Curran’s dream home

I

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ALUMINIUM DEER HEAD, £89, GRAHAM AND GREEN grahamandgreen.co.uk

GET THE LOOK…

VERSAILLES BABY GOLD CHAIR, £295, THE FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

The rest of the house has brightly lit areas such as the orangery, which lets in lots of natural light for working, as well as hanging out with family. I always wanted my home to have an orangery. We built it so it opens up onto the terrace and so you can sit outside in the summer. I kept the colour scheme in pale greys and whites with lots of framed photographs and candles. A colleague bought me the sculpted candlesticks in the living room from Graham & Green.

Although we spend most of our time in the orangery as a family, the living room is a lovely space in which to entertain guests. I have filled it with framed photographs and ornaments which I have collected on my travels, such as an ornamental horn and Buddha-head candle. The photo frames are from Flamant and I have them in different sizes all over the house.

I work from home in an office space, which leads off the kitchen and into the garden – it’s decorated with a pair of silver stag heads I bought from Graham & Green. In fact, stags heads and antlers are a bit of a theme throughout the house. If I’m working I can still hear the commotion if Tom is cooking or Jake is racing around in the garden.

The snug is the darkest room of the house, so I played on this with the country-style colours and fabrics. There is a ‘hunting in the country’ feel to the room and it’s incredibly cosy and romantic, with the roaring open fire in the winter. I found the antler chandelier I have in there on the most wonderful interiors site called The French Bedroom Company and it’s such a dramatic piece.

We also have a cinema room, which people don’t always expect. There is nothing more relaxing than snuggling up on the sofa there, watching a film with Jake of an evening.

GILT CANDELABRA, £28, GRAHAM AND GREEN grahamandgreen.co.uk

VERY VELVET CHAISE LONGUE, £595, THE FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

FIGHT ME ANTLER CHANDELIER, FROM £845, THE FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

FLOS KTRIBE F1 FLOOR LAMP, £433, AMARA amara.co.uk

TIFFANY SILVERPLATED PHOTO FRAME, FROM £13 flamant.com ANNE-MARIE CARVED CHAIR, £315, THE FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk AMUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK |

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Look great and feel greater in the 2012 limited edition t-shirt from Jeans for Genes Day.

Modelled by Caggie Dunlop

Designed by rising talent Bradley Harper from the London College of Fashion, buying this t-shirt will make a difference for children living with genetic disorders across the UK. Buy yours now for £13 and start changing lives at

Jeans for Genes ® and ™ © 2012 Genetic Disorders UK. All rights reserved.

Registered Charity Number: 1141583.

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food news

by LYDIA SLATER

GLOBAL GOURMET Sailing, diving, cycling or hurdling? You don’t have

to choose with Biscuiteers’ new Games Tin, which contains a 19-strong collection of deliciously edible hand-iced athletes, their all-important medals and even a mini stadium for staging your own gourmet Games in front of the TV. A winner.

The Biscuiteers Games tin costs £40 plus p&p, delivery nationwide, biscuiteers.com

PATRIOTIC PIES

For an Olympian feast, check out the apple pie recipe in baker-to-the-stars Eric Lanlard’s new book. “Apple pie is such a patriotic British dish,” he says, “and you can make it look really Olympian by adorning the crust with the five rings, or a laurel wreath around the edge.”

Tart It Up, £18.99, Octopus

COOL DOWN Pop-up private members’ club The Fringe is a

mere 100m from the Olympic Park and hopes to help athletes relax after a hard day’s competing.

Try its tasty GINFORD CHRISTIE:  4 x 1” cubes of fresh watermelon  50ml London Dry Gin  3 basil leaves  10ml sugar syrup  Cubed ice best made in batches of 4 METHOD 1. Place all ingredients (except ice and one basil leaf, for the garnish) in a Boston glass.

2. Briefly muddle to extract the juice from the watermelon.

3. Add a scoop of cubed ice.

4. Shake vigorously for 9.87 seconds, the eponymous hero’s personal best.

5. Strain through a tea strainer into a chilled Martini glass.

6. Float a basil leaf before serving.

FULL OF BEANS Award-winning boutique

chocolatier Amelia Rope has nailed her colours to the mast with this patriotic Olympic Trio of red, white and blue-wrapped chocolate bars. Inside, you’ll find the sophisticated flavours of lime and sea salt, hazelnut and sea salt and coffee beans. £16.81 plus p&p or see ameliarope.com for stockists

REFUEL

New energy cereal FUEL is rich in Vitamin B and E, high in fibre and contains guarana extract. “We have created FUEL specifically to meet the needs of today’s active people taking part in marathons, triathlons and mountain-climbing, as well as more traditional pastimes such as rugby, tennis and squash,” says co-founder Barney Mauleverer, who himself recently completed the Jungle Marathon in the Amazon. This sofa surfer thought it tasted pretty good too…

Available in Tesco and Sainsbury’s (where it’s on promotion until the end of the Games). £3.29 for a 400g pack.

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restaurant news

by LYDIA SLATER

FOOD FIT FOR AN

OLYMPIAN

THE

BREAKFAST

Get the day off to a healthy start at Hammersmith’s Hampshire Hog, which has introduced the Athlete’s Breakfast for the duration of the games. Race there for Bircher muesli with honey yogurt, grated apple and toasted almonds, followed by eggs, ham and a virgin apple mojito. £15, thehampshirehog.com

THE

LUNCH

Chic new Notting Hill restaurant Mazi offers a modern, molecular take on Greek cuisine (think taramasalata mousse and a delicious dessert of baklava with black olives) and an impressive wine list. Sit outside under the enormous grapevine and get into the Olympian mood; as long as it’s not raining.

Mazi, 020 7229 3794, mazi.co.uk

THE

DINNER

Chef Rowley Leigh of Le Café Anglais is opening his kitchen to prominent food writers and fellow chefs including aMUSE’s own Florence Knight (inset), for a series of one-off collaborative dinners. We have two tickets to Florence’s dinner on 1 August, worth £140, to give away to aMUSE readers.

Lucas Hollweg is joining Rowley on 12 September, then it’s Gizzi Erskine on 6 November and Rose Prince on 23 January.

Cooking with Rowley tickets available from Le Café Anglais, 020 7221 1415, £70pp including dinner, wine and service.

Email competitions@ amusemagazine.co.uk. For a full set of terms and confitions see amusemagazine.co.uk.

THE TEA

The Games are proving a rich source of inspiration for London’s pastry chefs. At The Royal Horseguards Hotel, you can indulge in a SporTea menu involving energy-packed pastries from around the world and finishing off with Lucozade cupcakes (until 12 August, £35pp, guoman.com). Meanwhile at The Capital, holder of the Tea Guild’s Award of Excellence for Top London Afternoon Tea 2012, lift dumbbells made of passion fruit and Valhrona chocolate to your lips, consume a basketball made from glazed carrot cake and there’s even a winner’s podium in a tasty lemon sponge (until 9 September, £25pp, capitalhotel.co.uk, 020 7591 1200).

THE

PARTY

Want to party with the athletes? Head down to the Last Lap at Chinawhite, a private venue aimed at athletes and VIPs which runs for the duration of the Games.

Winning British athletes are in the running to be gifted a Golden Cocktail – a mix of Hennessy Paradis Imperial Cognac, Luxor 24ct gold-leaf Champagne and a handmade set of gold rings, adorned with a ruby, a black diamond, an emerald and a sapphire from London jeweller Hirsch at the bottom of the glass. For the rest of us, it’ll cost £2,012… thelastlap.co.uk

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Designed to Win An exhibition dedicated to innovation in sport

26 July – 18 November 2012 Open daily

Design Museum Shad Thames London SE1 2YD designmuseum.org #beyondreason In Association with

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

TH E

FIFTEENMINUTE

MEAL

Two courses in a quarter of an hour?

No problem for superchef Florence Knight

GRILLED MACKEREL, RUNNER BEANS & PANGRATTATA serves four This dish has everything that an Olympian needs to feel on top form before competing.

Grilled mackerel is a healthy, oily fish full of omega-3 and protein, while the green beans are a great source of vitamin C and iron. The pangrattata adds crunch and is there to provide the carbs. More importantly, it’s very, very tasty.

• 300g stale focaccia • 1 long red chilli • 2 cloves of garlic • Good-quality olive oil • 1 unwaxed lemon • 2 sprigs of oregano • 450g runner beans • A pinch of Maldon salt • 4 whole mackerel trimmed and gutted

1 For the pangrattata, tear the focaccia onto a baking tray then sprinkle with salt and a few drops of olive oil. Place in an oven at 180ºC for ten minutes until it is crisp and golden. Remove from the oven and leave to cool. Once cool, place the bread in a blender and blitz it until it has the consistency of rough crumbs.

2 Meanwhile, de-seed and dice the chilli and chop the garlic very finely until it’s almost a purée. Put the garlic into a saucepan and fry very gently in a tablespoon of olive oil until the oil is infused. Add the breadcrumbs in to the pan with the garlic and chilli. Stir and turn the heat up to medium-high, making sure you do not burn the garlic. After a few minutes, turn the mixture onto a baking tray, add the zest of half a lemon and the roughly chopped oregano.

3 Trim the beans, pulling away any strings, and slice them chunky on the angle. Place a pot of water with a good pinch of salt on the heat and bring to boil.

4 Heat a griddle pan until hot, then lightly oil and season the mackerel with salt. Place the fish onto the hot pan and cook for six minutes on each side. You should cook the mackerel until the flesh is opaque and starts to come away from the bone. It is important to make sure the griddle is hot enough to ensure that the fish has nice black lines and comes away easily when cooked.

5 Halfway through cooking the fish, drop the runner beans into the boiling, salted water until tender – about five minutes – then drain.

5 To serve, squeeze half the lemon juice over the beans along with a good glug of olive oil. Lay over the charred mackerel and scatter over the pangrattata to finish.

WARM BLUEBERRIES & VANILLA ICE CREAM Plump, syrupy blueberries – high in antioxidants and vitamins to keep you in shape – spooned over vanilla ice cream make a quick and delicious pudding. Everybody deserves to tuck into this gold medal-winning dessert.

• 2 heaped tbsp caster sugar • ½ vanilla pod, split in half • 2 punnets of blueberries • 1 tub of your favourite vanilla ice cream 1 Put the caster sugar in a saucepan with water to about an inch depth and add the vanilla pod. Be sure to choose a pot wide enough for the fruit to fit neatly inside in one layer. Over a medium heat, dissolve the sugar and slowly bring to the boil. Once simmering, add the blueberries. Cook for three minutes, continually spooning the syrup over the blueberries. Once the blueberries start to burst out of their skins, remove from the heat.

2 Place a large scoop of ice cream in to a bowl and spoon over the juicy, syrupy blueberries.

VICTORIA MOORE’S TOP PICKS

WITH THE MACKEREL:

Stella Alpina Pinot Grigio 2011 Alto Adige, Italy (13.5%, Majestic, £8.79 down from £10.99 when you buy two) has refreshing, clean edges and provides the crisp mouthful this needs.

WITH THE BLUEBERRIES:

I love moscato for its spritz and melon-and-nectar taste, but hadn’t liked a Gallo wine in years until this one came along. Gallo Family Vineyards Moscato 2011 California (8.5%, around £6.79 Asda, Co-op, Sainsbury’s, Ocado) is like honeyed pineapple.

Victoria Moore, wine columnist for The Telegraph, is the Louis Roederer International Wine Writer of the Year

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THIS MONTH’S –– MUSE ––

right: Above and hen. itc K ’s m To ler & ut B a : ow Bel ch Wilson broo

Which woman most inspires you?

My mother – she was a working mum who kept everything together and we felt happy. Also, Audrey Hepburn. I grew up watching her films, knowing that she always wanted to be a dancer.

Which Londoner most inspires you?

I’ve always been obsessed with Sting and The Police.

Whose style do you emulate?

Apart from Audrey Hepburn’s, I enjoy trying to be different. I don’t worry about being overdressed – it’s more fun.

Whose style do you avoid?

I’m better with tailored clothes. I think I look messy easily.

Where do you go to think?

I get cabin fever so I like getting out.

I never had moments to myself as a dancer – I really appreciate them now.

Where do you go to relax?

The Sanctuary Spa in Covent Garden. It was created 35 years ago for dancers like me – when I danced with The Royal Ballet, it was my retreat from the world.

Where do you go to drink?

Wine bars in London or quiet English pubs. I’m a red wine fan (it helps that my parents live in France).

Where do you go to feast your eyes?

I love architecture and the grandeur of the V&A. I was jealous that my kids saw the British Design Exhibition without me recently.

Where do you go to feast your soul?

I love art galleries – most recently I visited the Royal Academy of Arts.

Darcey Bussell The dancer emulates Audrey

Hepburn, eats fish in Chelsea and can’t resist Harvey Nichols

let’s e Royal Bal Darcey in th 2007 in s on ti ria Va Themes and

cQueen Below: a M ed at ur at fe s es dr esign D h is rit B e th Exhibition; lock Sandra Bul

Which three shops can’t you resist?

Harvey Nichols, LK Bennett and the costume jeweller Butler & Wilson.

Where do you go to escape from London?

Australia, where I’ve lived for the past four years. It’s so different from anywhere else.

Which shows have you seen recently?

I saw the Sydney Dance Company before I left Australia to come here. I want to take my kids to Matilda, and I’d love to see Singin’ in the Rain because I used to dance with Adam Cooper.

Which restaurant did you eat in last?

Tom’s Kitchen in Chelsea – I ordered fish.

What is your life philosophy?

Have no regrets and be happy.

What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?

Don’t rush growing up.

What do you miss when you’re away?

My dogs in Australia; my friends in London.

Who would play you in the film of your life?

Everyone says I look like Sandra Bullock.

But I don’t know if she would want to play a ballet dancer.

What’s your favourite London hotel?

The Mandarin Oriental – the location, right next to Hyde Park, is great.

What would you do with Battersea Power Station?

I’d turn it into a multi-purpose centre incorporating arts, sports and music.

Sanctuary Spa Active Reverse skincare is available from Boots and thesanctuary.co.uk

PHOTOS: SCILLYSTUFF, DJTOMDOG, FLICKR; DAVID GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY; FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/GETTY

on in utler & Wils Above left: B e right: heels by ov London. Ab ndon’s . Below: Lo LK Bennett al nt rie O Mandarin

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