Asian Chic Issue 5

Inside:

Wedding Season is upon us Plus make-up extraordinaire Afshan Islam pops in for a chat.

Venture / Fashion / Travel / Motoring

Issue 05

free

Asian Lifestyle, Asian Living, Asian Chic

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Contents

Issue

05 Asian Fashion| Page 22

Editor’s Letter

A look at Bhairavi Jaikishan’s Summer 2012 collection

Here at Asian Chic, each month we strive to highlight the most creative, influential and entrepreneurial individuals among Sheffield’s Asian community; we feel that this month we’ve created one of our best issues yet.

Following her win -- at last month’s International Make-up Awards, we speak to Sheffield’s own Afshan Islam, who gives aspiring make-up artists her top-tips on breaking the industry. With wedding season upon us, this month’s magazine is packed full of ads and editorial to help you find all the very best local business looking to make your big day extra special.

Of course we have all of our regular features including a glance in at some of Sheffield’s most promising up-and-coming businesses. This month the itchy-footed Chic traveller takes a trip down under, and shares his tips on how to get the most out of a trip to the Sunburnt Country, Australia. The most chic of the Chic staff give you a sneaky look at Bhairavi Jaikishan’s Summer 2012 collection, while resident rev-head, Tim Barnes-Clay talks us through none-more-chic, all new Kia Optima – What more could you ask for?

Inside:

Wedding Season is upon us Plus make-up extraordinaire Afshan Islam pops in for a chat.

Venture / Fashion / Travel / Motoring

Issue 05

free

Asian Lifestyle, Asian Living, Asian Chic

Your editor

Kieran Smith

Local Businesses | Page 06

Venture| Page 30

We take a look at two of Sheffield’s most exciting new entrepreneurial endeavours

A quick glance at some of Sheffield’s hottest businesses

Afshan Islam| Page 08

Travel | Page 34

Managing Director

Following her runaway success at this year’s International Make-up Awards, we chat to Beauty Beneath’s Afshan Islam

This month, we come from the land down under (where women glow and men chunder?)

Editor

The Team Hussain Shafique Kieran Smith

Design Director Shane Gilmartin

Web Designer Francesca Cirillo

Sales Manager Melanie Jackson

Contributors Tim Barnes-Clay

Special Thanks To Afshan Islam, Beauty Beneath

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Our policy

Wedding Season| Page 12

Motoring | Page 40

With an average cost of around £30,000, count yourself lucky you’ve got Asian Chic here to help make this wedding season very much “recession-friendly”

Our resident rev-head Tim Barnes-Clay gives us his take on the brand new Kia Optima

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Not connected with any other company or group. All material is copyright of Chic Promotions Marketing LTD and is not to be reproduced without permission. The placing of an order for an insertion of an advert in this publication shall amount to an acceptance of our terms and conditions.

We aim to produce a high quality, up to date magazine for your pleasure.

We strive with every care possible to ensure the information published is correct. However on occasion some material may be altered after the magazine has gone to print. Therefore we cannot accept any responsibility for these changes and can only offer our sincerest apologies in such an event.

Asian Chic Magazine 25 Leigh Street, Sheffield, S9 2PR Tel: 0114 261 07 07 Email: info@asianchic.co.uk

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Local Businesses Sheffield Dot Net Phone: 0114 327 1977 The recently opened Dot Net is a unique concept, combining an internet café with a phone shop. The store offers a wide range of services, including fast speed broadband internet, print and copy facilities, email and fax services and mobile phone repairs, unlocking and accessories. Customers can relax with a cup of coffee and surf their internet, whilst their children are entertained with computer games.

“ Unique Concept “ Having been involved in a few businesses before, owner Zakaria Khan thought he’d try something different and thus Dot Net was born. The result of a lot of hard work, Dot Net opened two weeks ago.

Zakaria says he’s thankfully faced no difficulties during its progression, which he hopes is a sign of good times to come. Zakaria has been spreading the word of Dot Net’s opening via newspapers, online sites, word of mouth and flyers, and the idea behind the store is something new in the area so Zakaria is positive of its success.

The recent economic climate has been tough for several new businesses, but although Zakaria admits it can be hard at times, he insists he is a survivor, whose family and friends have helped him through hard times. With a very positive attitude towards business, Zakaria believes the secret to maintaining a successful business is keeping customers happy all the time and looking out for them, and, faced with the chance to do it all again, would definitely leap in with both feet.

Yorkshire Furniture & Carpet Warehouse Phone: 0114 263 41 25

For affordable, stylish furniture and carpets in Sheffield, look no further than Yorkshire Furniture and Carpet Warehouse.

Offering a wide range of dining and bedroom furniture, suites and carpets, Yorkshire Furniture guarantees professionalism, efficiency and reliability offering an outstanding service to every client.

“ outstanding service “ The company has over 50 beds in their showroom, ranging from luxurious leather frames to storage designs. For a comfy night’s sleep, browse their range of mattresses and divan sets to suit all requirements, whether you’re after an orthopaedic or even a memory foam mattress.

For a stylish addition to your dining and living rooms, take a look at Yorkshire Furniture’s range of dining tables and chairs; everything from traditional to modern looks. Their range of coffee tables and leather suites have something for every taste – pop into their showroom on Queens Road or visit their website to browse their extensive collection.

Yorkshire Furniture & Carpet Warehouse 264 Queens Road, Sheffield, S2 4DL Tel: 0114 263 41 25 www.furniturewarehousesheffield.com

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Afshan Islam Sheffield has its very own make-up extraordinaire in its midst. Afshan Islam, owner of salon Beauty Beneath in Attercliffe, recently came first at the Professional Beauty International Make-Up Awards in Germany – a very welldeserved achievement.

There’s no rest for Afshan however; as well as running her busy hair and beauty salon, she’s already preparing for her next challenge. We caught up with her in a rare free moment for a few words about the awards.

Congratulations on your recent win at the Professional Beauty International Make Up Awards! How does it feel?

Thanks! It’s a great achievement to have won against international competitors.

In October 2011, you travelled to Manchester to take part in the regionals of the Professional Beauty Awards – what did you have to do to get through the heats?

We were given models and had to apply make up for specific looks – Bridal and Glamour, for which the theme was a Lady Gaga influenced evening look. I won both categories and the overall award, presented by Emmerdale’s Kirsty-Leigh Porter and X-Factor star Carolynne Poole.

From this you were given the opportunity to work with the Art Deco team at a red carpet celebrity event – what was this like?

Art Deco supported the competition, they do the make up for celebrities and shows like Dancing With The Stars and Emmerdale. I applied the make-up for an X Factor contestant and saw lots of celebrities like Sarah-Jayne Dunn from Hollyoaks and Katie Price!

How did you get the opportunity to work with make-up artist to the stars, Louise Page, and what did you learn?

Through the competition I was invited to spend a day at her academy, I learnt a lot about how to treat celebrities when applying their make-up! She’s also asked me to assist her on an OK! magazine photo shoot with four Miss World models, so that’s a great opportunity, and I’m going on a five day intensive course to prepare for the shoot.

Are you planning on entering again next year?

Yes I’ve already entered the regional heats, there are different categories and themes, this year it’s World Brides. As I do bridal make up all the time this was perfect for me! I created a totally blingy Asian bridal look and came first!

What’s next for you?

For the championships I have to submit my ten best make up looks, and eight get selected. If I get chosen I then travel to the next event, which is in Vancouver, or Sydney if I miss that one! It would be amazing to get selected; this year’s theme is tropical birds so I can be really creative with that.

What other achievements have you attained in your career?

I’ve entered many competitions over the years, including the City & Guilds Make Up Award when I was at college.

The colleges submitted a variety of photographic shots (Asian, bridal and avant-garde), for which I was able to apply make-up to Britain’s Next Top Model, Misha Simpson. From this I got one of my images put on the cover of the Level 3 Beauty Therapy log book! And my biography is inside!

Beauty Beneath 620 Attercliffe Road, Sheffield, S9 3QS 0114 242 2122 www.beautybeneathsalon.co.uk

Tell us about the International Make Up awards, how was the experience?

It was amazing because as winner of the Manchester heat I was chosen as the only representative from the UK - at the event in Düsseldorf, Germany I was competing against representatives from 15 different countries. On my model I had to apply plain, natural eyes, simple cheek contouring and bright lips to complement the outfits, from designer Custo Barcelona. And I won! The prize was a trophy, certificate and €1000.

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As Spring settles in, here in the UK we mark the beginning of wedding season for Britain’s Asian communities. This unseasonal sunshine is providing the perfect backdrop for the vibrant, colourful matrimonial practises that will be taking place up and down the country. Of course we all want our special day to be perfect, but with anywhere between one hundred and ten thousand people to cater for this is rarely without its challenges! We mustn’t forget however, that this is a chance to bring together family and community and above all to enjoy ourselves.

Many wedding traditions which have originated in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh have carried over to second and third generation immigrant populations in western countries, as such, a market has grown in the UK for Asian-Wedding specialists, providing services like henna art, traditional dress, and of course, Asian gold. Increasingly, younger Asian couples are starting to incorporate Western features into their weddings, such as speeches, the first dance, as well as the wedding cake, all with a little extra glamour and ostentation.

All this comes with a price of course, with Asian weddings costing on average £30,000 in the UK, compared with the national average of £18,000.

With so much to plan for, organising a wedding is a daunting, difficult task. Fortunately, Sheffield has a wealth of wedding businesses keen to offer their services in everything from photography, through traditional cusine to bangra music DJ hire. This month, here at Asian Chic, we’ve done our best, working alongside local entrepeneurs to tailor our adverts and editorials towards the young, loved-up couples preparing to take that commital step into married life. We hope that, browsing these pages, you can maybe find that missing link to make your wedding celebrations that extra bit more special – and of course, we wish you every happiness in your married life.

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Chandni 25 Staniforth Road, Attercliffe, Sheffield, S9 3HB 0114 256 0991/ 07960 960 840 Planning a wedding can be the most stressful time of your life, but Chandni Wedding Services are here to help you achieve the wedding you’ve always dreamed of.

The team at Chandni are dedicated to organising every aspect of your wedding, from decorating the venue to arranging catering. Their planners have access to a stunning array of colours and themes, to create a bespoke wedding package uniquely designed to your tastes.

The Chandni team can provide a complete wedding package, from showstopping features to the little indispensable extras, from wedding lights to adorn your house, to individual table centre pieces.

The wedding stage is a huge statement on the big day, and Chandni are committed to preparing the stage of your dreams. Having been dressing stages for years, the team have a wealth of experience in creating a beautiful, eye-catching backdrop to your big day. The team have a huge portfolio to browse through, helping clients to choose the perfect design.

“Venue hire, decoration, catering and photography - Planning for a wedding can be as daunting as it is exciting. Fortunately, Sheffield is home to countless shops and services to help make your special day that little bit easier.

Permit Chic to be your guide . . .”

What better way to entertain your guests than with a delicious chocolate fountain? Chandni can provide milk, white or flavoured fountains, in colours to match your theme, perfect for dipping fruit, halal marshmallows, fudge or donuts. Three tier beverage fountains are also available, and a stunning fruit-filled palm tree.

Rice & Spice 57 Bellhouse Road, Sheffield, S5 6HJ 0114 243 7085 A wedding wouldn’t be complete without a tantalising banquet of indulgent food.

Rice & Spice specialise in wedding and event catering, handling every event from big to small, indoor or outdoor. The team can rustle up tasty treats to supply all demands, from a simple buffet to a sit down, three course meal.

Rice & Spice specialise in Asian dishes ranging through every aspect of the cuisine; imagine starting with a tempting treat of prawn puree, onion bhaji or karahi kebab, then perhaps try a tandoori tikka dish or mixed vegetable biryani.

Chef ’s specials include murgh makani, lamb passanda, mushroom balti and chicken tikka karahi, accompanied with a portion of fluffy mushroom rice, pashwari nan or even paratha. Or if that doesn’t whet your appetite, the team are also specialists in a huge range of popular dishes – think bhuna, dansak, methi and ceylan, with chicken, lamb, prawn, mushroom, vegetables, king prawn or keema.

Arooj Banqueting 286 Attercliffe Road, Sheffield, S4 7WZ 0114 2757 786/ 07951 943 395 www.aroojshadihall.co.uk Having the perfect venue for your wedding can make all the difference. Arooj is one of Sheffield’s only exclusive banqueting halls, fit for all events.

Over the past two years, Arooj Banqueting has quickly established itself as a premier venue, offering the highest standards in event services for any event or occasion.

With separate halls for ladies and gentlemen, Arooj is an ideal venue for weddings, engagements, mehndi and manian, birthday parties, anniversaries, conferences, corporate events, receptions and business meetings. The team at Arooj also offer in-house catering, providing delicious, tailor-made banquets, whatever your tastes. The catering experts at Arooj can also provide their events services at venues across the region, with outdoor catering and delivery available.

The banqueting hall is an impressive space, comfortably seating 20 to 168 guests at a dining event, with the reception and drinks served in the Drawing Room. For just a reception, hundreds of guests can be entertained in the banqueting hall, and Arooj’s fully qualified staff are more than happy to organise almost any style of food and service. With excellent acoustics, the hall is the perfect venue to dazzle wedding guests, with plenty of space for a beautiful stage and exquisitely decorated tables. The air conditioned space has colour changing lights in the high ceiling, with audio visual equipment available.

Khoobsurat Photography 07790 423 952 Your wedding is a once in a lifetime, magical moment to remember forever. Khoobsurat Photography is dedicated to helping you capture these special days forever within timeless photographs.

Run by female photographer Khamida Khan, Koobsurat specialises in photography at special events such as weddings, proms and celebrations, providing dazzling snaps to treasure always.

Snapping away for eight years now, Khamida first took an interest in photography when she carried out a short neighbourhood photography course, then through Creative Burngreave she was mentored by professional photographer Richard Hamson and turned her passion into a career.

Having built up an impressive portfolio, Koobsurat can take care of everything to create timeless images, including styling and editing, helping you to remember every precious moment from the engagement to the wedding, with a set of stunning pictures to cherish forever.

Have we not mentioned your favourite dish? Don’t worry – Rice & Spice are dedicated to catering to your own particular tastes and are more than willing to create a personal menu just for you. Give them a call to discuss your requirements and impress your guests with a delicious wedding feast.

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Fashion LAKME FASHION WEEK SUMMER RESORT 2012 BHAIRAVI JAIKISHAN

BOHO-LUXE

One of the most exciting features appearing at Lakme Fashion Week was the Boho-Luxe fashion show. This is one trend that every Asian designer gets right every time, thanks to traditional Indian techniques such as dip-dye, tie-dye and eye-catching embroidery.

Pia Pauro dazzled the catwalk with high-definition colour and delicate embellishment on simple silhouettes, creating the ultimate boho-luxe trend.

Bhairavi Jaikishan kicks off her Summer 2012 collection in glamorous style, for both sides of the fashion parade - bold and reserved!

For the stylishly brave, Jaikishan creates heavy focus on embellishment, with bright and bold saris, and of course exquisitely embroidered patterns.

For the masses of ladies who prefer a more understated glamour, Jaikishan gives way to delicately crafted lehengas and saris in this season’s must-have pastel palette.

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Cascade

www.cascadejewellery.co.uk Phone: 07585 895 137 What compelled you to start your own business?

It has always been a dream of mine to own my own a shop or website. A few years ago, I bought a lovely ornate bracelet from a small boutique and it inspired me to search for other pieces of jewellery of a similar design. I came across some fantastic websites but some were for trade customers only. It was then that I decided to start up my fashion accessories business selling at home parties as it would give me an opportunity to do something I enjoy while fitting around my part-time work.

What actions did you take to make it a reality?

Firstly, I contacted Business Link to ask for advice on starting up a new business. They sent me information on some local courses they were running and I attended the ones which I thought would be useful. I thought about what I would call my company and I had a logo designed. I continued to source jewellery and accessories wholesalers and made enquiries about their products. I attended trade fairs and came away with lots of information from suppliers. From this I compiled a ‘wish list’ of all the items I thought people would love. A few months later, I started to place orders. As I spread the word about my new venture, family and friends offered to have home parties which were perfect for a fun and relaxing night in combined with some retail therapy.

How long have you been trading?

I had my first jewellery and accessories party in October, 2010 and I probably started planning a year before that.

How did your business arrive at the place it’s at today?

In addition to the jewellery parties, I started to book stalls at local events and fayres and customers were

asking if I had a website to order online. I then began to look at setting this up, finding a website designer and planning the overall look of my online boutique.

A year on from starting up, my website was ready to go live. I am now expanding the wedding jewellery and accessories side of the business, attending wedding fayres and promoting my business to a wider market.

What difficulties have you faced during its progression?

Obviously, I have had to consider the pricing of my items in the current economic climate. I did not want to compromise on quality so I have focused on sourcing high quality, mid-priced products that can be classed as affordable luxuries. It has also been difficult setting up and running a business alongside my part-time job.

How have you used advertising to your advantage, to set up and expand your business?

I have used promotional flyers to hand out at parties, events and around local areas from the start. I am now looking at local media to advertise to a wider market and get my business more exposure. Lifestyle and fashion magazines seem the ideal choice as they are distributed to outlets and businesses throughout the area. Hopefully, this will give potential customers the opportunity to see the fantastic range of fashion and occasion accessories my website has to offer.

What do you feel gives you the edge over your competitors?

I always try to source items and brands which are different to what the high street has to offer. In my collections I aim to include an exciting mix of trendy, distinctive and edgy pieces, from statement making designs, contemporary styling and a touch of the vintage vibe. I select each piece for its individuality and quality so women can be assured they will always find something unique and special to complement their outfit.

How have you and your business dealt with these tough

economical times?

Due to the marketplace being so slow, it has obviously had a big impact on my budgeting in certain areas of the business. I am gradually finding out what works best for my business and trying to adapt ways to manage the challenges.

What is your attitude towards business?

When you own your own business, your main aim is to see it grow and be successful. It is a big challenge which involves lots of hard work and commitment in the process but you get a lot of satisfaction from making your plans come to life and it’s very rewarding seeing what you can actually achieve if you try.

What do you believe the secret to maintaining a successful business?

I think it is important to build up a good reputation with your customers so that they are happy with their purchases and return to you in the future. You also have to have an edge on your competitors and strive to be different from the rest.

Would you do it all again?

Yes, but I would prefer to put all of my time into it instead of trying to juggle it alongside a part-time job.

Yummies

316-320 Owler Lane, Fir Vale, S4 8GF Phone: 0114 348 6412 To satisfy a sweet tooth with an irresistible selection of edible treats, look no further than dessert and deli bar, Yummies, in Fir Vale.

Owned by manager Nemy, Yummies has been a firm favourite in Sheffield for two years, and underwent a recent refurbishment in November. Studying for a Graphic Design degree at university in Manchester, Nemy was a regular at a dessert shop in the city and got talking to the owner. Helping him out in the café, an idea was born, and on returning to Sheffield, Nemy started running a burger van on the site of a car wash, which evolved into a dessert van. As demand grew, Nemy opened a café, starting off with a basic dessert menu, which then progressed into the dessert parlour and deli that is Yummies today.

Nemy is clearly passionate about his food and the creation of new and scrumptious cakes.

The premise behind Yummies is something of a treat in Sheffield – where else can you find the luscious range of delicious delicacies that lie behind the counter in Yummies? The massive choice of tasty nibbles is impressive, ranging from milkshakes to ice cream to cakes to desserts to savoury treats.

Just a peek into the display cabinet sets mouths salivating, and the rainbow coloured array of cakes produces a tricky choice. A favourite is Big Ben – layered cake with lashings of chocolate cream, mousse and cream, or perhaps you fancy getting stuck into a generous slice of Caramella – caramel gateaux packed with layers of cream and drizzles of caramel sauce, topped with caramel shavings. An eye-catching temptation is the Bubbly Blue – a blue-coloured, bubblegum flavoured gateaux, crammed with bubblegum cream and sponge, smothered in multi-coloured hundreds and thousands, bubblegum sauce and a jam filling. For the chocolate lovers, the Choc Flake Fudge Cake will fulfil all desires – an overload of rich, sensational double chocolate, or maybe the Pearl Cake is more to your tastes - a beautiful, white, purely cream cake. For something a bit different, try the Ferrero Rocher cheesecake, a rich and indulgent dessert topped with chopped nuts and a Ferrero Rocher chocolate.

If it’s ice cream you’re after, prepare to be dazzled. A simple scoop of vanilla just doesn’t cut it at Yummies; their selection of flavours is much more impressive. Imagine Red Bull flavoured ice cream, or maybe their popular choices including the crunchy Maltesers, Screwball or Millions varieties will set your tongue tingling.

An indulgent dose of comfort food will make any grey day feel better. Yummies serves homemade school desserts to bring back memories; remember cornflake treacle tart, caramel slices, Bakewell tarts and flapjack? All smothered in thick, steaming custard to warm you up on a rainy day.

A particular speciality are the Yummies’ milkshakes, with over 200 flavours available. Thick, creamy and irresistible, the milkshakes bring customers back time and time again. Choose from a simple creation made from your favourite chocolate bar, like Snickers, Ferrero Rocher or Mars Bar, or try a special formula like the Darth Vader Shake – a mixture of Oreo cookies and bubblegum.

Yummies isn’t just about the desserts, however.

The deli also serves a wide range of homecooked food, with a favourite being the lasagne; the spicy mince, creamy béchamel sauce and melted cheese is something of a special treat.

Yummies also offers burgers, including the shami kebab burger, paninis, wraps, pasta, shepard’s pie, curry and much more, filling the gap when you’re feeling a bit peckish.

Offering something yummy to suit every taste, pop into Yummies for a special treat, open 11am-11pm, Monday to Thursday, and 3pmlate, Friday to Sunday.

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Venture About Town Apna Restaurant

113 Psalters Lane, (Meadowbank Road), Rotherham, S61 1DL 01709 550 077 (Restaurant)/ 01709 560 430 (Takeaway)

44A Kimberworth Road, Masborough, Rotherham, S61 1AE Phone: 01709 380 450 - www.mirzafashions.co.uk

For a special treat to tempt your tastebuds, give Apna Restaurant a call – they offer the finest Asian cuisine in both their restaurant and takeaway.

Looking for a new outfit for a special occasion? Pop into Mirza Fashions in Masborough, who can find you the perfect piece from their collections.

Offering a mouth-watering array of starters, mains, sides and desserts, Apna’s extensive menu holds something for everyone. Chef ’s specials include Desi Chicken (cooked Lahori style with lots of curry sauce), Paya (lamb trotters cooked in a rich gravy sauce) and Haleem (a blend of lentils cooked with boneless chicken). Alongside this, Apna’s chefs can create Asian favourites to your taste – maybe you’re a fan of Fish Karahi, Handi Achari or perhaps a Biryani?

A family run business stocking a huge range of high quality Asian clothing, Mirza Fashions provide women’s fashions, loose materials, ready-made suits, footwear and beautiful jewellery, as well as children’s clothing.

Apna can also provide outdoor catering, banqueting and corporate events, with special discounts offered for birthdays, weddings, parties and other corporate events. Let Apna’s delicious food top off a special event or provide the perfect evening in their restaurant.

Lifestyle Furniture

Regency House, 27 Idsworth Road, Sheffield, S5 6UN: Phone: 0114 244 4440 Feel it’s time to spruce up your home with some new peices furniture? Lifestyle Furniture may have just the answer, with their wide range of furnishings and carpets.

With a huge choice of beds, suites, tables and carpets, Lifestyle Furniture is a one-stop-shop to deck out your house.

Whether you’re after a pine frame bed, leather sofa or even a modern bedside table, Lifestyle Furniture will have the perfect piece to fit in wonderfully with your décor.

With styles to suit all budgets, tastes and interiors, pop into their showroom to discover the ideal piece to transform your house into a home you love.

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Stocking the latest designs and brands, Mirza’s luxury range of designer suits, includes Om Text, Vipul, ME, Rama, BELA, with many more Pakistani and Asian suits in stock. If you don’t find the perfect piece in store, designs can also be ordered in from catalogues.

Take a browse through their rails and let Mirza Fashions help to make your dream outfit a reality.

Showdown Events

www.showdownevents.co.uk Phone: 07833 923 635 Make way for the Champ - Showdown Events present a night of World Title Thai Boxing in the shape of Showdown 11.

Dropping in to Sheffield Octagon Centre on 17th June, Showdown 11 showcases fighters from across the UK and Portugal.

Featuring a World Title fight between fighters from two of the most famous gyms in Europe, Thomas McCormick (Wicker Camp, Sheffield) and James France (Bad Company, Leeds), the show also presents former two times World Champion Imran Khan against Irish champion Seamus Cogan.

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Travel Guide

Australia

Covering a total area of 7.69 million square kilometres, mainland Australia is the world’s largest island - but smallest continent. Stretching about 3700 kilometres from north to south and 4000 kilometres from east to west, Oz is the sixth largest country on Earth. Australia is also the only continent that is governed as a single country. It is sometimes informally referred to as an ‘island’ continent, surrounded by oceans.

Australian society is made up of people from a rich variety of cultural, ethnic, linguistic and religious backgrounds, and this is a defining feature of modern Australian society.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have inhabited Australia for tens of thousands of years. Most Australians are immigrants or the descendants of immigrants who arrived during the past two hundred years from more than two hundred countries, cementing Australia as a melting pot of cultural diversity.

As if this already wasn’t enough reason to visit the Sunburnt Country, allow Chic to take you further into the cracked outback and bustling cities of one of the most desirable holiday destinations on our blue planet.

Australia is divided into six states and two territories.

Canberra is the national capital and the centre of government which lies on the ancient

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lands of the Indigenous Ngunnawal people.

It is home to important national institutions, including the Australian Parliament and the High Court of Australia. New South Wales is Australia’s oldest and most populated state; home to Sydney, the nation’s largest and most recognisable city.

“ melting pot ” Victoria is the smallest of the mainland states in size but the second most populated - Melbourne is situated here; sometimes referred to as the “cultural capital of Australia” and is the birthplace of Australian film, television, art, dance and music. We all know Australia is the best place to work on that suntan, and for a tan like no other, head to Queensland, Australia’s very own sunshine state - and for any Nemo fans out there, Queensland is also home to the world famous Great Barrier Reef.

South Australia covers some of the most arid

parts of the continent; sometimes known as the ‘Festival State’, South Australia has a thriving arts scene, with more than 500 festivals taking place there every year.

At the top end of Australia lies the Northern Territory. Darwin, on the northern coast, is the capital, and Alice Springs the principal inland town. Alice Springs is the physical heart of Australia, almost exactly at the nation’s geographical centre. The Northern Territory is home to the famous Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and Kakadu national park.

Western Australia is Australia’s largest state by area. About three-quarters of the state’s population live in the capital Perth. The east of the state is mostly desert, while to the west the state is bound by almost 13,000 kilometres of pristine coastline – surf ’s up!

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Tasmania is separated from mainland Australia by Bass Strait and is the smallest state in Australia. One-fifth of Tasmania is covered by national parks and wilderness areas. It is one of the world’s most mountainous islands whose geology reflects Australia’s connection millions of years ago with Antarctica. For the more adventurous among you, Tasmania is a must.

drop on funky Brunswick Street or upmarket Chapel Street. Wander Southbank’s cafes, bistros and bars and get a world tour of cuisines in Carlton, Richmond and Fitzroy. Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and cheer with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Because of its vast size and diversity of landscape and culture, Australia offers something for any traveller – entire libraries could and have been written about each of these principalities, but for the sake of brevity, we’ll focus on three of Australia’s most desirable, and – of course – Chic tourist destinations; Sydney, Melbourne and the wild expanse of the Northern territories.

You never quite know what’s in store when you wander off Melbourne’s grid of city streets into the maze of Gothic laneways behind them. Even the locals find surprises here, where the venues for food, fashion and art are small, quirky and sometimes hidden. Discover a late-night jazz bar or watch the world go by from a tiny trattoria, browse the boutiques and check out urban art. You can unlock the city’s real secrets in these distinctive Melbourne streets. Melbourne is a city best enjoyed by immersing yourself in the Boho lifestyle, but if you can’t bear to be without five-star surroundings, we recommend The Marriott – opulence incarnate.

“ Boho lifestyle ” Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty.

Kayak under the Sydney Harbour Bridge or wave at the Opera House as you ride a ferry across the harbour to Manly. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach or swim in the calm waters of Coogee. Lose yourself in the cobblestone cul-de-sacs of The Rocks or in the markets, boutiques, cafés and pubs of Paddington.

As well as a world-famous harbour and more than 70 sparkling beaches, Sydney offers fabulous food, festivals and 24-7 fun. Sydney’s beaches will be beckoning before you even land in Botany. You might see them flying in – a long, golden chain split across both sides of the harbour and fringed by green bush and sea. If you’re an avid surfer, sun-worshipper or just love the sea, you’ll be itching to get onto the waves, smelling the salt air or nestled nicely on the sand.

“ 24-7 fun ” For the more bohemian among you, be sure to pay a visit to Glebe, the bookwormish and often overlooked sister amongst Sydney’s glamorous inner-city suburbs. But who needs a high profile or designer fashion when you have ideals and intellectual mettle? Staying in Sydney doesn’t have to be expensive, if you’re willing to rough it, there are countless hostels scattered throughout the city, but for a fortnight of luxury it has to be a stay at the Four Seasons - fine dining, luxury spas, breathtaking views – heaven.

Melbourne is a maze of hidden laneways, opulent bars, exclusive restaurants and offthe-beaten-track boutiques. Here you can soak up culture, hit the sporting grounds, taste the dynamic food and wine scene, dance ‘til dawn or wander the parks and leafy boulevards. Visit Federation Square, the city’s landmark cultural space, and enjoy a sunset beer on the St Kilda promenade. Shop till you

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“ Magical ”

If neither Melbourne nor Sydney float your boat, and a taste of the real, wild Australia is what you crave; we suggest you set up camp in Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Terri-

tory. Surrounded by a red sand desert which stretches for hundreds of kilometres in all directions, Alice Springs is one of Australia’s most famous outback towns. It is the gateway to the iconic natural features of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta National Park. Here, stories of Australia’s history and heritage are told through a colourful cast of characters and events that include camel races, golddiggers and outback pioneers. Sail over the spinifex plains in a hot air balloon or bike ride to Simpsons Gap. Join a safari of quad bikes across the desert or fly over the MacDonnell Ranges. Peer into the traditions of the Aboriginal Arrernte people who have lived here for 20,000 years and browse contemporary Aboriginal art along Todd Mall. If a trip to Alice Springs sounds like your cup of tea, make sure you book in at the beautiful Crowne Plaza hotel, set against the magical backdrop of Australia’s Red Centre.

Australia isn’t for everyone, granted, particularly if you can’t deal with the heat. But for those with a burning desire for adventure and for some of the most beautiful natural features on the planet, a trip down under is vital bucket list material - with flights as cheap as £600, you’ll be guaranteed a g’day.

German Marques

Unit 1, Fell Road, Sheffield, S9 2AL Phone: 0114 327 2027

Even if your ride is exclusive, the repair costs needn’t be at German Marques, with their rates easily bettering that of the dealers’.

Having only been open since July 2011, German Marques is fast becoming the principal place to take your luxurious set of wheels to.

For a top notch service, look no further than German Marques to treat your exclusive vehicle with the respect it deserves.

The business specialises in German makes, including BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche Volkwagen, Bentley, Rolls Royce, Mini and Maserati, although all cars are welcome. Highperformance cars need high-performance treatment, and the team at German Marques have the passion and attention to detail needed to provide your vehicle with the care it deserves.

Owner Gary is more than qualified to handle any motor, having been a mechanic for several years, as well as having worked at the Mini factory in Oxfordshire. After leaving his previous job last May, Gary decided to use his impressive auto experience to open his own business with German Marques. Highly trained technicians, Gary and his team undertake all work with care to produce perfect results.

Offering all service, repairs and maintenance, including diagnostics, engine tuning, modifications, body repairs, resprays, restorations, wheel refurbishments, paint-free dent removal and stone chip repairs, German Marques pride themselves on their extensive knowledge, quality customer service and competitive rates.

Asian

Asian

- CHIC -

- CHIC -

You Drink We Drive

Tel: 0114 239-39-39 www.sheffieldcitytaxis.com Sheffield’s No1

Motoring Car Review

THE OPTIMA is the all-new flagship saloon that is the latest model to be launched in Kia’s design-led product offensive. It went on sale in the UK in February, bringing fantastic design, high levels of standard specification and low running costs.

- Kia Optima 1.7 CRDi 3 The Kia Optima is a credible car for business - it looks sharp and handles any commute admirably.

The steering lacks feel, so you don’t get much sense of connection with the road surface, but the car is comfortable, has enough power, and is easy to live with.

It is sold only with a diesel engine – a new 134 bhp version of Kia’s smooth and efficient 1.7-litre CRDi ‘U2’ power unit – but the Optima contains every essential for the corporate user. Features include a high-end Infinity audio system, self-parking, heated and cool-ventilated seats, cornering lights, panoramic sunroof, reverse parking camera and an automatic cabin defogging system.

“ easy to live with” The interior is sporty, and the fascia tilts towards you so that all the major controls are within your sight-line for best visibility and ease of use. Slim armrests in the doors have integral audio speakers, freeing up more storage space in the panel beneath.

In the top-of-the-range Optima 3, on test here, mood lighting in the lower part of the doors and the centre fascia adds to the cabin’s already sophisticated ambience.

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The Optima is based on an all-new platform, which ensures it has class-leading passenger space while being no larger than its competitors. The boot is also roomy, and there is a lower lip to make loading the car less strenuous.

“ sophisticated ambience ” It is a safe motor too. All versions have Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to counter any tendency the car might have to skid out of control because of bad weather or over-exuberant driving. This is linked to Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), which senses when the wheels on one side of the car are on a lower-grip surface than those on the other side.

VSM then stabilises the car by reducing the amount of steering assistance if you are applying too much steering effort, or increasing it you are applying too little.

To alert other motorists to sudden braking, the Optima utilises an Emergency Stop Signalling system (ESS) - this flashes the brake lights rapidly to warn following drivers. In addition, the executive-focused Kia is equipped with front, side and curtain airbags, plus active front-seat head restraints to minimise the risk of whiplash injuries.

The manual version of the Optima. features Kia’s EcoDynamics fuel-saving, CO2-reducing measures, including Intelligent Stop & Go and aerodynamic drag-reducing measures. The diesel engine develops similar power and torque to the 2.0-litre units in European and Japanese rivals, but from a smaller capacity. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 10.2 seconds, and the car can reach a top speed of 125 mph. Better still, the Optima can achieve 57.6 miles per gallon, and it only pumps out CO2 emissions of 128 g/km.

“ stability with refinement ” The Optima’s ride provides the perfect combination of stability with refinement, on those long motorway drives that are a fact of life for many business drivers. Extensive noise-reduction measures ensure minimal transmission of engine and road sound, while the low co-efficient of drag not only helps fuel economy but also minimises wind turbulence.

As with all Kias, the Optima comes with the South Korean company’s unique seven-year or 100,000mile warranty, which is fully transferable to subsequent owners.

Kia Optima 1.7 CRDi 3

www.kia.co.uk

Max speed: 125 mph 0-62 mph: 10.2 secs Tech Combined mpg: 57.6 Spec Engine: 1685 cc 4 Cylinder Turbo Diesel Max. power (bhp): 134 at 4000 rpm Max. torque (Ib/ft): 325 at 2000-2500 rpm CO2: 128 g/km Price: £24,495 on the road www.asianchic.co.uk

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Monster Signs

Unit 5, Fell Road, Attercliffe Common, S9 2AL Phone: 0114 327 15 75/ 07850 372 331 “First impressions are imperative and presentation is absolutely everything”. Monster Signs are dedicated to providing beautiful and effective signage solutions.

Having established the business in 2010, Jason Biggin and Ian Cougill at Monster Signs have over 20 years of experience in the signage business. Jason’s career started at college where he studied Signs and Environmental Graphics, then started his own business along with Ian. Ian is also a trained, sign writer, using time-honoured methods to create beautifully finished signs and products, including handpainted narrow boats.

The team at Monster has a portfolio of clients nationwide and can deal with every aspect of the sign creation process, from initially establishing the client’s needs, to the design, manufacture and fitting, and their list of services reaches far beyond that of the simple sign.

From a signage aspect, Monster can offer a huge range of solutions to transform a business’ exterior or interior, incorporating the company’s logo, colours and graphics. Add a further dimension to a plain sign with 3D lettering or logo, or introduce a lighting source for impressive illumination, day or night.

Whatever your individual needs, Monster Signs can deliver – trays, flags, shop fascias, built-up signs, letters and totem poles.

Another solution is window graphics, whereby a vinyl design is applied to the glass offering huge scope for advertising to the passing trade.

The signs don’t have to be purely business front orientated however; Monster can create everything from interior displays to health and safety signs, labelling fire exits or dangers- for example, and even ‘For Sale’ signs.

Banners can be another incredibly effective form of promotion, adding impact to your company’s public profile. Monster Signs offer all kinds of professional and attractive banners, from stand-alone A-boards, to exhibition displays, backdrops, outdoor media, event furniture and bars. The team can design and install every piece, offering digital printing, vinyl lettering, canvas and PVC banners.

For a complete branding solution, Monster Signs offer the design and manufacture of promotional goods, and can provide embroidered and printed clothing, enabling companies to promote their brand throughout the company.

A big part of Monster Signs’ portfolio of services is the vehicle wrapping, which involves fully or partly covering a vehicle with an adhesive film. This can be used to fully brand up a commercial vehicle (everything from motorcycles to double decker buses), producing an impressively striking result. For something a little more subtle however, the team can apply lettering or logos to a vehicle, producing a very professional appearance and giving the public and customers the information they need.

The wrapping process can also be used on domestic cars, allowing a dramatic colour change without the need of a permanent respray. Stand out from the crowd by choosing from Monster’s range of over 1,000 colours and finishes, including chrome, carbon fibre and matt black, and can also protect the vehicle with scratch proof film. This can be completed in under just three days, preserve the original

paintwork and be removed at any time, with no damage to the paintwork underneath. The team have worked on an array of prestigious cars including Bentleys, Range Rovers and Audi R8s – your vehicle is in safe hands with the Monster boys. A perfect solution for the indecisive – refresh your car with a different colour every year!

The Monster team are passionate about their craft, offering a bespoke design service to create stunning designs for their clients. Providing an amazing, friendly service at every step of the way, the guys can achieve stunning results whatever your requirements, large or small scale. Get in touch with them today to discuss what they can do to transform your ideas into a reality and explore your business’ full potential.