Chic Lifestyle Magazine Christmas

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- LIFESTYLE -

ISSUE 47

Whats on | Fashion | Music | Spotlight | Food & Drink | Living | Beauty | Hair


t a l l a m o Fr

Hair by Claire flack and Ben Howe


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Contents | Contributors

Welcome - LIFESTYLE -

I’m a sucker for Christmas; it’s not the presents, the carols, the food, it’s not even the feeling of goodwill to all men. No, I just relish the opportunity to relive my childhood by watching A Muppet Christmas Carol and Jingle All the Way on repeat for a fortnight. The Chic office has been divided over the merits of Christmas songs this year; the way I see it is, yes to ‘Stop the Cavalry’, no to Destiny’s Child’s ‘Eight Days of Christmas’. We’ve been sure to pack this month’s issue full of festive treats, including our best decorative Christmas buys which you can find in our new Living section. If you’ve an aversion to the season of Yule, fear not, there’s plenty to cheer even the most ardent of Scrooges over the coming pages. Indie music’s favourite siblings and our cover stars Tegan and Sara have spent the past month supporting The Killers on their UK tour, we caught up with the girls to discuss their past, present and forthcoming album Heartthrob. We are drawing to the close of a phenomenal year for Sheffield - from Jonathan Marray’s win in the Wimbledon doubles to Jessica Ennis’ Olympic glory, the sporting achievements have been astounding. In terms of culture however, 2012 has been a landmark year for the Steel City, with Tramlines and DocFest drawing in huge numbers. We take a closer look at what is making Sheffield the UK’s culture capital in Sheffield, City of Culture. In this month’s Spotlight feature, we get inside the mind of Emma Guglez, a Sheffield-based artist, born and raised in Spain. Her work - some examples of which accompany our interview – is astounding, I urge you to take a look. As always, our beauty and fashion editors are on hand to give you their top tips to looking and feeling your best. We’ve been scouting out the finest restaurants and salons to to share with you, as well as giving you our hot picks of the month’s theatre, museums and galleries in our regular What’s On feature. We hope you enjoy spending an hour or so with Yorkshire’s number one for lifestyle and culture. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any feedback or suggestions. Have a wonderful festive season, we look forward to seeing you again same time next month. Your editor Chic Lifestyle Magazine 25 Leigh Street, Sheffield, S9 2PR General Enquiries/Advertising Tel: 0114 281 07 07 Email: info@chiclifestylemagazine.co.uk www.chiclifestylemagazine.co.uk

recycle when you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

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Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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22

12 MANAGING DIRECTOR Hussain Shafique

EDITOR

Kieran Smith kieran@chicpromotions.co.uk

26 06

12

16

what’s on

A sneak peek at the unmissable events occurring across Yorkshire’s theatres, galleries and museums this month

TEGAN & SARA

Having spent the last month opening arenas for The Killers, long-established, sibling indie heroes Tegan and Sara drop in for a chat to discuss their forthcoming album, Heartthrob

FASHION

The Chic fashionista shares her tips on how to keep warm this winter and look good doing it

20 MUSIC

We reveal our favourite Christmas classics, along with reviews of the latest offering from Lana Del Rey, The Staves and Christina Aguilera

22 SPOTLIGHT

Born in the South of Spain, Emma Guglez has spend the past year and a half bringing her own brand of ‘symbolic realism’ to Sheffield’s galleries - we take a closer look at the artist’s work

26 Sheffield city of culture

The past year has been a phenomenal cultural success for the Steel City - from Tramlines, through DocFest to Graves Gallery’s wonderful Warhol exhibit. We take a closer look

40 30

31

DESIGN DIRECTOR Shane Gilmartin

FOOD & DRINK

Our resident chef walks us through his indulgent Cheesecake Brownies and offers some tips on keeping lowcal this Christmas

Restaurant Review

This month it’s the turn of Lahore on West Street to be put to task by the Chic foodies

33 living

In keeping with the spirit of the season, we’ve sourced the best buys to keep your house chic this Christmas

34 BEAUTY TIPS

Our in house beauty expert gives her hot tips on looking glam for the festive party season

35 Beauty Review

Chic’s resident beauty pro gives her verdict after a trip to Ecclesall Road’s Top Nails

33 hair review

We put the clippers at the effervescent Wigs and Warpaint to the test

40 city break

If you’ve no qualms with the snow, you may as well enjoy it in style. This month we’ve headed to the jewel of Scandinavia – the Swedish capital, Stockholm

WEB DESIGNER

Francesca Cirillo

JUNIOR DESIGNER Scott Wheeler

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Melanie Jackson melanie@chicpromotions.co.uk

ACCOUNTS Dawn Goodwin

CONTRIBUTORS

Joe Davies Rebecca Needham Kate Hobson Melanie Jackson

SPECIAL THANKS

Tegan & Sara Emma Guglez Wigs and Warpaint Top Nails Lahore 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.


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Whats On | Preview

Rapunzel Presented at The Studio

My Fair Lady Crucible Theatre

The sheer amount of hair is exhausting to look at. It literally grows from the head right down to the floor and beyond, and is apparently strong enough to serve as a rope, even supporting the weight of a prince. It can only be Rapunzel, which comes to Sheffield this December. Presented by tutti fruity and the York Theatre Royal, who put on an acclaimed version of Hare and Tortoise last year, this year witnesses them to put on a hilarious production of Rapunzel (adapted by Mike Kenny). Despite the fairytale aspects of the show, at its heart it’s the story of a girl who’s overprotected, but ultimately yearns to live a normal life, just like everybody else. This is a narrative which is a common theme throughout literary history. With delightful music by composer Chris Mellor, beautiful choreography from the talented TC Howard and Catherine Chapman at the helm of the magical set design it promises to be the pinnacle of Christmas Season entertainment. Tickets start from £10.

It’s an absolute classic of the musical theatre world and for good reasons. My Fair Lady, which is based on the classic novel Pygmalion, is part of the very fabric of entertainment and has been for a good number of years. A new production is hitting Sheffield this Christmas so we can once again see the story of the cockney flower girl made good.

Wednesday 12th December – Saturday 5th January

To find out more or buy tickets visit: www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/event/rapunzel/

Thursday 13th December – Saturday 26th January

Coming to the Crucible Theatre, tickets will average around £20 for the production of My Fair Lady. It looks at the retelling of a story that focuses on the night a cockney flower girl meets a professor in Covent Garden, consequently changing both of their lives for good as the professor tries to turn her into a real lady. With classic musical theatre standards such as ‘The Rain In Spain’, ‘On the Street Where You Live’ and ‘Wouldn’t It Be Lovely and direction from The Sheffield Theatre Artists’ own Daniel Evans, this new version of the classic musical promises to raise spirits in even the darkest of hearts this Christmas. To find out more or buy tickets visit: www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/event/my-fair-lady-12/

Cinderella Lyceum Theatre

Friday 7th December – Sunday 6th January The tale of rags to riches is an absolute classic narrative that has influenced everything from My Fair Lady to Footballers Wives over the years. It’s one of the oldest stories ever told and Cinderella is pretty much its archetype, its template. Now Sheffield has chosen the Christmas period to put on its own retelling of the classic tale. With the Lyceum Theatre as its location and tickets going for as little as £10, it promises to be a night filled with wonder and magic as we are all invited to the ball to watch local servant girl Cinderella get glammed up and fall in love with her very own Prince Charming. Cast for the production includes Damian Williams, Ben Faulks and Sue Devaney. Coming from the same team who brought last year’s smash hit production of Sleeping Beauty to the audiences of the Steel City, it may not be the most sophisticated show in town, but for those looking to get into the spirit of the Christmas season with a classic feel good tale of local girl making good, this is the production for you! To find out more or buy tickets visit: www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/event/cinderella-12/

Beyond The Barricade at Christmas St George’s Hall Wednesday 12th December

Back by popular demand, Barricade at Christmas is a one night only showcase at St George’s Hall with tickets between the prices of £15.50 - £18.50. The popular touring production, which is truly one of a kind, is a sort of stage variety show with showstoppers from various musical theatre productions over the years.

The Machine Presented at Studio

Tuesday 4th December – Wednesday 5th December This is one for those who count themselves intellectual at heart. The Machine is a play which uses Goethe’s poem The Ramblers Lullaby II and deconstructs it, in the process creating a subtle comedy that explores language, meaning, thought and silence. The play, written by acclaimed French novelist Georges Perec, was originally a radio play in 1968 and this is the first time it has been adapted for the stage. In what has been labelled “an inventive, irreverent and intoxicating linguistic dissection of the poem”, The Machine uses computer programming protocols, randomisation, Beckett, algebra, French, proverbs, Italian, Lewis Caroll, geography, biography, Nietzsche, Napoleon, Schopenhauer, Verlain, Schiller, Rimbaud, Brecht, Dickenson, Neruda, Borges, German, Kirkegaard and KFC to achieve its goal and bring new light to a classic work. In what proves to be a fantastical exploration of literature and philosophy, The Machine is a complete mind teaser that absolutely has to be seen to be believed!

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Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

Featuring the principle performers from the West End Cast of Les Miserables, as performers from the 25th anniversary of the production, the cast will perform such classic songs from musicals such as Miss Saigon, The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies, Mamma Mia, Blood Brothers, The Jersey Boys and many more. The finale will see the cast tackle their own musical, as they hit the stage with a number from Les Miserables itself! It is one of the country’s most popular touring shows and has seen strong critical acclaim over recent years. The night promises to be truly spectacular! To find out more or book tickets visit www. bradford-theatres.co.uk


Whats On | Preview

The Red Headed League Bloc Projectors

Friday 30th November – 7-9pm

Red Headed people have kind of gotten the raw end of the stick culturally over the course of modern history. For some reason even in 2012, society persists in making red heads the butt of many a joke and as a kid being a red head on the playground was tantamount to wearing a kick me sign that you could never take off. Well Bloc Projectors are handing the power back this month as they are displaying their Red Headed League pamphlet, a book dedicated to the work of Red Headed artists!

Sheffield Landscapes Exhibition, Showroom Cinema and Workstation Saturday 3rd November – Friday 30th November / Tickets £40-£79

Art gets even more experimental this month with a new exhibition from Bellamy and Kent called Sheffield Landscapes. The exhibition sees a fascinating fusion of two disparate, although contemporary art forms. These are classical sculpture and more modern photography. The collective have taken their ideas out into the community, even into the illusive restricted and even sometimes prohibited areas of the Steel City where sculpture is a thing of myth and photography is hardly the done thing. It promises to be a fascinating exploration of the movement of modern art into the depths of the unknown. It should be an absolutely essential viewing.

Forces of Nature: Picturing Ruskin’s Landscape Millennium Gallery

Saturday 15th December 2012 – Sunday 23rd June 2013 The power and majesty of our natural landscape can be awesome to behold. Often underestimated, the power of nature is fearsome and can very much storm lives, as recently seen by Hurricane Sandy in the North East of the US. For centuries every sect of artists from the Romantic to the post modernists has taken our natural landscape as the inspiration for a masterpiece, and a new exhibition acts to highlight this. Coming exclusively to the Millennium Gallery in December and staying for several months are a selection of historical and contemporary work, using the evolution of Ruskin’s ideas as a means of looking at artists’ different approaches to portraying the landscape. A leading artist of the late 19th century and one of the founding fathers of the Pre-Raphaelite artistic movement, Ruskin is noted for his early environmentalism, he was truly ahead of his time and in 2012 his environmental stance in art has been lauded by critics and the art viewing public alike. Don’t miss this chance to catch some truly remarkable landscapes.

Christmas Crackers Millennium Gallery

Friday 2nd November – Sunday 20th January The season is truly upon us (although truthfully if advertisers are to be believed, it’s been here for months already). Yes, it’s Christmas, and even the art world is celebrating the festive season with a special festive exhibition at the Millennium Gallery in Sheffield. In what is an absolutely astonishing feast of craft and design, Christmas Crackers is there to provide an alternative to the crowded high street this Christmas when you’re looking for all the essentials for the holiday season. Available for purchase are affordable gifts from beautiful ornate jewellery to stylish glassware and ceramics, all handmade by UK craftspeople. Hooray for home grown talent!

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Whats On | Preview

Sheffield Theatres – A Brief History A stone’s throw away from one another, The Crucible and The Lyceum Theatre provide a hive of theatrical activity in the heart of Sheffield City Centre. The foundations which today’s action builds upon have been set since The Lyceum’s opening in the late 1890s, and the journey since then has certainly been a turbulent one. Hosting a wealth of dramatic productions spanning a wide scale of genres, both theatres have seen their fair share of talent and indeed continue to present well known classics alongside far smaller in-house productions, providing entertainment to a range of audiences. The Lyceum Theatre first opened its doors to the public in 1897. Designed by the famous architect W.G.R Sprague, the stage was built to be framed by a proscenium arch which creates a ‘window effect’, resulting in a good view for the entire audience. The Lyceum is the only surviving design of Sprague’s outside London, perhaps demonstrating its importance and value in the theatrical world, and placing both Sprague and indeed Sheffield on the map for classical theatre design. With a capacity of, 1068 spanning over three levels, The Lyceum began its reign as a major source of entertainment in Sheffield with a performance of ‘Carmen’ by Carl Rosa Opera Company. This was to be the first of many successful productions and famous faces gracing the stage, and the theatre was hugely popular. Regrettably, the theatre was forced into closure in 1969 in order to be converted into a bingo hall. Though this may seem like a bizarre leap to take in this current day, The Lyceum was not the only building to undertake such changes, and it seemed that theatre may never be the same again in Sheffield. Stranger yet, amongst the bingo calls of Two sitting ducks, twenty-two’, the venue was also used to host rock concerts, and unfortunately in the 1980s the interior of the building was near destroyed. However, all was not lost; in 1985 Sheffield City Council agreed to buy and restore the building, costing a grand total of £12 million. In the long run, it may be observed that this was a small price to pay for the years of entertainment that have since been hosted within the ornately decorated interior. Such classic and grand design inside provides a luxurious atmosphere in which to enjoy the theatre going experience, and serves as a reminder of the timeless nature of theatre. Indeed, at the Lyceum one can see modern touring West End productions such as ‘Legally Blonde’ or the cinematic success ‘Chicago’, as well as Sheffield’s annual pantomime which is a huge success each year. Strikingly different to the design of The Lyceum is its neighbour The Crucible, though its capacity is just shy of The Lyceum’s at 980. Built much later in 1971, The Crucible marked the comeback of theatres in Sheffield given that at that time The Lyceum was not providing any theatrical productions. In this instance, the Crucible’s founding artistic director was heavily involved with the design of the theatre, and it was he who suggested arguably the main feature of the building; the thrust stage. Also known as an open stage or platform stage, the thrust stage extends into the audience on three sides, yet maintains a backstage. This allows for easy access onto the stage from the wings, and yet has the major advantage of a heightened sense of intimacy between the audience and the performers on stage. Though of course a backdrop may be used, the use of props is often minimised given that the thrust stage provides a variety of perspectives of the stage, and thus misplaced props may obscure the view of members of the audience. The atmosphere inside The Crucible is palpable given that no one is further than 22 metres from the performer on stage. In addition, the use of a thrust stage reflects the environment in which a number of Shakespeare’s works were first performed, as the Globe Theatre also used this platform to present its theatre. Unsurprisingly The Crucible has hosted countless Shakespeare performances and adaptations, including a variety of big names. Most recently was Macbeth, which ran from September 5th – October 6th 2012 and featured Spooks actor Geoffrey Streatfield in the role of Macbeth. Perhaps more famously, Kenneth Branagh, who has also appeared in numerous film adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays, returned to the stage after ten years in 2002 to portray Richard III at the Crucible and was very well received. Alongside the theatrical side of The Crucible, it is also home to The World Snooker Championship which is held annually. Evidently it provides a good home for such a popular sporting event, as it has been held at The Crucible since 1977, not long after the theatre’s opening, and the event is considered to be the leading professional snooker tournament. Not to be forgotten is what could be considered as The Crucible and The Lyceum’s slightly younger brother, The Studio Theatre. Providing productions on a much smaller scale the Studio houses just 400 people, and tends to showcase in-house productions or touring shows. This serves as yet another layer in the rich tapestry that is Sheffield’s theatrical culture. Indeed, the three theatres together provide such a diverse range of theatre, dance and other productions that it would be hard to find someone whose artistic needs are not catered for by the complex. Whether looking for one of Shakespeare’s classics, some light Christmas entertainment or a musical number that anyone can enjoy, Sheffield theatres provides for all age ranges. Indeed, even those who have no interest in performance are likely to be enthused by the intricate interior detail within The Lyceum, or the stunning acoustics in The Crucible. The theatres give a platform on which to reflect on our past, and to gain inspiration for the future from.

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hair salon



Indie Favourites

TEGAN & SARA Last month cult favourites, the wonderful sibling pop duo, Tegan and Sara, opened for The Killers on the UK dates of their international tour including a brief stop in our Steel City. Chic managed to catch up with one half of the dynamic Canadian pair – Sara - for a little chat. We spent some time talking about the band’s forthcoming album, ‘Heartthrob’, set for a January 2013 release, their road to stardom, their fanatical fan base, what they think is new and current in music right now and their future plans for world domination. What can we expect from your new album ‘Heartthrob’? Well, so far I think the response has been really positive, and most people are saying that even though it’s quite different from our last record it’s a natural progression. Even if it sort of surprises people, it’s really going to make a bigger impact. Sometimes with records you get to listen to them a few times or see it live before it totally translates, or it connects. We have the utmost confidence that we’ve done something really strong; that I think is a compliment to the rest of the material we’ve already put out over the last ten plus years.

What’s been the general reaction of those who’ve heard the album so far? A lot of people, even people who have been fans or people who have to been working with us directly, it definitely comes as a bit of a surprise, but that’s perfect for us. We’ve made records we absolutely love and we’re really proud of what we’ve done in the past, but to continue feeling relevant after the last six albums you have to do something that surprises people even if initially people say they’re not sure what to make of it all at first, I’d rather have that reaction than to say it’s a great “part 2” to the last album. I really want people to feel as though we’ve taken more risks potentially, even if it’s not the most die-hard fans’ favourite record I want them at least to know we’re still really trying to do something new and exciting and ambitious, and as long as that shows through I can deal with some people really not liking it. Honestly there’s a natural life-cycle to a fan. Some people are going to be around for a long time and some people are going to dip in and out of our career, we always have to be cognizant of the fact that even if we could do 2,000 tickets the last time we came through a city, by the next time, if we’ve not done something new and exciting, we might lose them. We’re always trying to imagine that if we lose a certain amount of people - because that’s what happens - how we continue to connect with a new audience and a new generation. That a huge part of what influences me and what I’m interested in. What was really exciting to me in the year 2000 musically, now I’m listening to something entirely different, it’s obvious that that’s what would be reflected in our albums.

How does this album depart from your previous work? What it really comes down to is the song writing process is completely different. If anything we really made this promise to ourselves that we would revise and really challenge ourselves. In the past if a chorus wasn’t strong enough or if we didn’t like the sound we wouldn’t immediately dismiss it. With this record we were not changing anything, writing songs in the same way and working closely with a producer before we went into the studio. We were paying attention saying things like I think we can make this chorus stronger or change the key, little details that will probably make a big difference.

What records were you listening to at the time of recording, which artists helped inspire this album? Well this is such a weird answer but nothing, I find that when I’m writing I try to not listen to too much music just because obviously when I’m not writing music I’m always listening to music and watching TV and films and soaking up inspiration as I go. When I actually write, I prefer to keep my palette cleansed. I don’t want to even subconsciously pick up on too much of what is happening, I wasn’t listening to a tonne but I was constantly thinking about what had appealed to me over the last couple of years that didn’t fit in our genre. I naturally sort of have a tendency to gravitate towards really strong confident female singers, people like Alicia Keys, Beyonce, I love that kind of music. I’m really fascinated by big pop female singers right now because I think they’re making the best and boldest sounding music right now. I don’t have the chops to sing like Beyonce or Alicia for that matter but I would think to myself OK, pretend you’re not Tegan and Sara and instead you are Beyonce, how would you sing a chorus, even those tiny little conscious little reminders to not think what I might not do but what someone else might do helps me infuse in to the melody or into the structure of a song.

How did you two break into the music business? It’s a story that’s probably not that uncommon; we played music in high school, we made demo tapes in the city, in people’s garages and basements and that sort of thing. We thought we might be able to make a go of it locally and so when we graduated high school we made an independent record and started playing shows, and eventually after a year or two of doing that sort of circuit, we found ourselves forming a relationship with a man named Elliot Roberts, who managed Neil Young, who had an independent label in the United States, in California. We hadn’t been that interested in signing a record deal but he made an offer we couldn’t refuse, it wasn’t about bells and whistles and money and all that, rather it was about providing Tegan and I an opportunity make a number of albums over a course of ten years and not feel the pressure to sell the records, or be commercialised or whatever. All of a sudden at 20 years old we were signing this record deal and going out on tour with people like Neil Young, that was our big first and it was a wonderful relationship that we still have. Obviously we’ve transitioned out of that record deal and into a different relationship but I still feel like that was an important time in our career because we were given a lot of space to develop naturally and organically so that was really nice, we learned a lot.

What’s next for Tegan and Sara? The record isn’t going to come out for a while, we’re just touring, and we’re actually on tour with The Killers until Christmas time. In the new year, when the new record comes out we’re just going to do a lot of headline tours and festivals, go all over the world again and reconnect with our wonderful fan base.

What tracks on the new album are your personal favourites and why? Well I think of my own, I feel particularly happy with ‘Now I’m All Messed Up’. I think it’s a weird futuristic ballad, that’s at the top of my range which is great. I’m really excited about that song, it’s an intense one. I think of Tegan’s, I think everything she’s done is great, my favourite is ‘I was a Fool’, I think that was my favourite overall song.

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Women | Fashion

HAUTE COAT-URE! FLATTER YOUR FIGURE WITH A FINE FITTING COAT VIVIENNE WESTWOOD ANGLOMANIA Vivienne Wool-Blend Coat Navy Wool-Blend www.net-a-porter.com £610

BARBOUR Ridorch Coat Brown www. seasonsclothing.co.uk £329

BURBERRY LONDON Cotton Poplin Ob Trench Stone www. seasonsclothing.co.uk £795

GUCCI Belted Coat Black Signiture Wool Coating www.Gucci.com £1490

CRAWFORD Peplum Leather Biker Jacket Aubergine www.reiss.com £450

If you’re SHORT

If you Have Broad Shoulders

Look for A style that hovers just at the knee Avoid long coats, voluminous or double-breasted

Look for Loose, unstructured jacket.. Opt for a length that is mid-hip or longer. Avoid double-breasted styles, high or closed necks, and top details such as breast pockets, trimming, epaulets and shoulder pads.

detail.

If you’re Curvy Look for Straight or Belted Styles, with simple lines that hit near the knee.

If you Have Narrow Shoulders Look for padding and perhaps some details, like epaulets. Avoid dropped and unstructured styles that allow the fabric to fall at your natural shoulder line.

If you Have a boyish frame Princess-shaped silhouettes that boost the bust with bold details including large buttons and patch pockets Avoid styles that are too full and have exaggerated shoulder details.


Mens | Fashion

PAY PACKET

JACKET

CP COMPANY / KHAKI

YVES SAINT LAURENT BLACK £2,790 www.mrporter.com

THE KOOPLES

£425

www.thekooples.co.uk

£546

www.seasonsclothing.co.uk

HUGO BOSS BLACK £949 www.hugoboss.com

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD ANGLOMANIA LEE / Khaki £215 www.viviennewestwood.co.uk

A man needs but three coats: a parka, an everyday one, and a formal one. Here at Chic we will show you what to look for, and how to wear ‘em. Whether you’re having a snowball fight, trying to keep your suit dry in our lovely Yorkshire weather, or navigating the winds blowing between the office and car park, a good coat is indispensable. Your choices should boil down to the three types below. The Parka: The classic parka comes in many guises these days. For our pick we have chosen a cool CP Company. It works with a suit, just make sure that it’s longer than your suit jacket. The Everyday: For most days, you need a coat that multitasks. Take the Vivienne Westwood hunting jacket; a change from the enough seen and authentically ripped off Barbour, this jacket screams coolness and you can go straight from the office to The Forum no problem of course and will keep wind and water out. The Formal: When dressing up, a simple single-breasted coat in dark wool (cashmere if you can) will always make the grade. Cover up with a scarf on colder days. Make sure the coat fits over your suit (have a jacket on when you try it), but don’t get it too big, lest it look borrowed. And invest in one where the buttons are hidden, which suggests higher quality and keeps the wind out.

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Hilton | Review

The Hilton Fitness

Address: Victoria Quays, Furnival Road, Sheffield

S4 7YB Tel: 0114 252 55 00 Web: www.hilton.com/sheffield The most obvious step for those who want to lose weight and get fit is to join a gym – a step that when motivation is high is an easy one to take. Recent statistics show however, that of gym members, 67% rarely or never utilize their memberships after more than a month or two of joining. So what is it that keeps our dreams of washboard abs and toned arms as mere figments of our imagination? There are the obvious setbacks: busy schedules, social influences and naughty indulgences, but the main hindrance is often our lack of knowledge. The human body is a complex thing - How does it work? What does it need? How often does it need it? This is where a personal trainer comes in handy. Chic took a trip to Sheffield’s Hilton Hotel to hit the gym, and see what difference a personal trainer makes to a standard work-out. With its impressive facilities, the Hilton is a great spot for anyone looking to improve their fitness: the hotel boasts a 20-meter heated indoor pool, full gym and fitness centre, four spa treatment rooms and a wide range of classes. Moreover, the staff and trainers are always on hand to ensure that their customers are knowledgeable and confident enough to operate all of this equipment and really make the most of their time in the gym. The Hilton personal training sessions start with a friendly introduction which establishes all the need-to-knows. What kind of lifestyle do you lead? How often can you train? What are your eating habits? What are your goals? All of this information enables the trainer to figure out what kind of exercise you should be doing, and also allows them to tailor a training scheme that is both effective and exclusive to you. The next step is to get your body moving: a personal trainer will introduce you to new ways of exercising that will target problem areas, maximise weight loss and muscle building/toning. From interval training to floor workouts, weight-lifting to swimming, you’ll learn effective techniques and varied workouts that will bring you one step closer to that perfect body. The most effective role of the personal trainer is the role of motivator. They know the importance of variety; this is something that the body needs, and also something you need in order to stay focussed. Instead of reaching the point where working out becomes a chore, a trainer will ensure that your time in the gym is dynamic and rewarding; meaning money and time well spent. A Hilton personal trainer will be there for as little or as long as they’re needed; whether you’re looking for a permanent gym partner, or just someone to show you the ropes. At The Hilton, you’ll get more than a work-out plan, you’ll get a complete lifestyle change.

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Music | Reviews

Celebration at Christmas

Sheffield Cathedral, Tuesday 4th December There’s nothing more likely to get you in the Christmas spirit than an evening of music in the enchanting setting of Sheffield City Cathedral, which is what will be taking place at this year’s ‘Celebration at Christmas’. Mercury newspaper’s annual event this year features Unite the Union Brass Band, one of South Yorkshire’s most successful bands sure to rouse the Cathedral with their moving performance. Special guest singer songwriter John Reilly will also be making an appearance, as well as The Cathedral Songmen. All acts are working to raise money for the Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, one of only four specialised cancer hospitals in the country. This event will not only provide the perfect opportunity to embrace Christmas festivities in all their glory, but will make a massive difference to the 6000 people who are diagnosed with cancer each year in this region alone. Tickets are just £6 for concessions and a reasonable £8 for adults, providing a way to give this Christmas without searching desperately in the jampacked shops for the perfect gift.

The Staves Dead & Born & Grown Hailing from Watford, sisters Emily, Jessica and Camilla Staveley-Parker, better known as The Staves release their début album, Dead & Born & Grown in the midst of an extended UK folk revival. In a year where the none-moreanodyne Mumford and Sons are capable of topping the album charts both sides of the Atlantic, the authentic, haunting harmonies of Dead & Born & Grown are a breath of fresh air.

Lana Del Rey Born To Die: The Paradise Edition In a 12 month sepia-tinged whirlwind, Lana Del Rey has achieved a double platinum album, bagged both a BRIT and an Ivor Novello Award, and been hailed ‘Woman of the Year’ by GQ. Elevated to the forefront of the commercial market, she’s collaborated with Jaguar, lent her name to Mulberry, and is also the face of H&M. The rerelease of her debut album is a fittingly epic salute to Lana’s breakthrough year – and a reminder that no matter how extensive her ventures, it’s still about the song writing.

The record is a sparse affair, rarely expanding on the formula of tight vocal harmonies and plucked acoustic guitar – it doesn’t need too. As is often the case with sibling groups, the harmonies are impeccable; warm and broad, enveloping the listener in the lyrics. Musically the album strives to evoke the timeless feel that Laura Marling achieves so competently, falling only slightly short of the mark. The album’s best songs, “Facing West”, the evocative “Winter Trees” and current single “Tongue Behind My Teeth” all feel fresh despite dealing with universal themes in a style of music with clearly defined boundaries – this

is down to the sisters’ song-writing chops, they have a Joni Mitchell fan’s ear for ambiguous turns of phrase, and a sibling’s tongue for lyrical short-cuts. There is a darkness running throughout the album that occasionally oversteps its bounds but is mostly used to a great effect – the impact of “Winter Trees” hinges on on discordant chord progression. Opener, the Shakespearean “Wisely & Slow”, pulls the listener in slowly with a bright acapella before blossoming into a fully fledged folk rocker. Rather than follow any narrative lyric structure, the sisters prefer intimate portraits - “tender woman mourns a man, sits in silent sorrow with a bottle in her hand” - this is a beautiful turn of phrase, but one can’t help but feel that The Staves are trying their hardest to evoke the greats, both contemporary (Marling) and past (Mitchell) and struggling to compete. Regardless, Dead & Born & Grown is a beautiful, intimate and compelling listen – the perfect soundtrack for the winter setting in.

Describing herself as, “the sonic equivalent of a Vincent Gallo film”, today Lana is almost as recognised for her visuals as she is her music. Each of her clips has become something of an event, whether it’s a viral victory like ‘Video Games’, or a controversial collaboration like ‘National Anthem’. In tandem with its descendants, the reissue’s first single, ‘Ride’, was solemn, symphonic and set to a melodramatic video that resumed that 1960s nostalgia trip she’s renowned for. Thematically, The Paradise Edition lends itself to Lana’s usual muses: creeds of love and corruption, tainted innocence and notions of the American Dream, tinged with Hollywood Sadcore. Lyrically, there are more fast drives, palm trees and pretty summer times in the likes of ‘American’ and ‘Ride’, but with a new immersion of much darker librettos throughout. In the deep melody of ‘Gods and Monsters’, she’s “an angel, looking to get f*cked hard”; and amidst the symphonic strings of ‘Cola’ she’s “got a taste for [married] men who are older”. Sonically, Lana seems to delve deeper into her vision, her hypnotizing tone laced with a fusion of strings, keys and hip-hop beats. Twinkly piano keys tiptoe amongst sombre whispers of ‘Bel Air, with a lone drum beat lending itself to the choir-like chorus. There’s a retreat to the 50s in the serenity of ‘Blue Velvet’, and the haunting tones so reminiscent of ‘Video Games’ return in ‘Burning Desire’ and Hollywood infused ballad, ‘Body Electric’. Whether referencing old Hollywood relics or propelling the singer’s own Super-8 view of the world, The Paradise Edition succeeds in evoking both the sound of a bygone era and the aura of a timeless movie. This is something that Lana seems to have mastered in her music, and injected into her very essence, setting her apart from every other female in the industry.

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Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

Christina Aguilera Lotus The last two years for Christina Aguilera have been turbulent: Her 2010 album, Bionic sent her nose-diving into the pop abyss, her lyrical slip at the 2011 Super Bowl ignited the fury of a thousand critics, and her recent weight gain has been splashed across the pages of every tabloid around the globe. So, it’s not really surprising that on her new album, Lotus, she’s aptly in self-defence mode. The introduction features a mixture of bongos, choral riffs and hip-hop beats spliced with a vocal chant that sees the Lotus “rise up” and “submerge from her pain.” At three minutes long, the track takes its time to unfurl and elusively set the scene for what’s to come. ‘Army of Me’ is definitely ‘single’ potential and sounds somewhere between Katy Perry’s ‘Firework,’ and Xtina’s own hit, ‘Fighter’, with words like “wiser”, “stronger” and “fighter” dominating the chorus, this is for certain, one thundering anthem of liberation. ‘Let There Be Love’ screams Ibiza. Packed with digital beats and oodles of repetition, this is a track that would probably be appreciated on the dance floor, but definitely sounds more Ke$ha than Xtina.

‘Around The World’, however, makes up for everything that its predecessor lacks. Ditching the generic beat reminiscent of typical top 40 clones, this track exhibits a blend of mighty vocals, catchy hooks and cool rhythms. Scattered throughout the track list, are an assemblage of ballad-type tracks which flaunt the singer’s distinctive tone and near-infinite range; ‘Sing for Me’, in particular is a number that reminds us that despite everything, Xtina is still the queen of vocal acrobatics. The strength of this album is that whilst it carries a loose narrative of self-empowerment, it isn’t so strongly themed that it limits itself to one dynamic throughout. Loosely speaking, Lotus can be split into four categories: dance numbers, ballads, collaborations, (CeeLo Green and Blake Shelton), and questionably selected fillers, (‘Red Hot Kinda Love’ and ‘Circles’). Overall, the pop star proves she can still power through a chorus like a Russian weight lifter, but all too often her vocals are smothered by digital effects. While it’s not quite the pop gold that Stripped was, it certainly beats the bronze of Bionic, and certainly has the potential to generate a fair few chart-toppers.


Music | Christmas Songs

Christmas Songs

NAU G H T Y A N D N I C E Holiday songs are like snowflakes, there are so many intricate options: the subtle beauty of church choir hymns, the charming influx of town-centre brass triads, and the wayward drift of timeless old relics. Whether you try to avoid it, or succumb to its icy allure, over the next month your ears will be perpetually blessed with the sound of Christmas cheer. Each year, the window of festive opportunity looks a little more appealing to contenders of the music industry and beyond. We’ve listened to everything over Xmas dinner, from “Mistletoe and Wine,” to “Mr. Hanky, The Christmas Poo”, but which songs make us proud to don our woollen reindeer jumpers, and which make us want to stick the knitting needles in our ears? Get your sherry glasses and your eye rolls at the ready, some of the best merry-makers and worst offenders are as follows… Best: “All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey Even the uber scrooges of the universe get that twinkly feeling in their toes when they hear the tinkering of Mariah’s 90s classic. It may have been played to death. It may have been written as a tribute to the singer’s then-husband who she divorced four months later. But let’s be honest, this song is Christmas in sonic form – and we’re not talking about the remix with Justin Bieber, either. Worst: “Christmas Song (Ding Dong)” by Gunther and the Sunshine Girls Sweden’s three major exports are cheesy pop music, Volvos and scantily clad blondes. Gunther and his Sunshine Girls make up at least two of

these – and none of them hold driving licences. If this song is anything to go by, Basshunter must be the Swedish equivalent of The Beatles. Best: “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby Yes, it is the all-time, essential classic – Bing Crosby’s greatest contribution to mankind. Get in front of the bathroom mirror, get the comb and the after-shave out and get your Kevin McAllister on!

Worst: “Eight Days of Christmas” by Destiny’s Child Beyonce, Kelly and Michelle have had some empowering hits for females over the years, take the lyrics from ‘Survivor’ or ‘Independent Woman’, for instance. But reminding us that their Christmas gifts are made up of diamonds, designer gear and sports cars is a real kick in the teeth when you open that multi-pack of socks from grandma. Best: “Thank God it’s Christmas” by Queen Soft percussion and sprinkles of sleigh bells blended with the most euphoric voice of the last two generations; thank God for Freddie! Worst: “Mistletoe and Wine” by Cliff Richard We’re all accustomed to a bit of Christmas cheese, but Cliff oversteps the line by a fair few thousand yards in this track. Not to mention that any concoction off Cliff, mistletoe and wine is a no go at any time of the year.

Worst: “Proper Crimbo” by the cast of Bo Selecta Like a novelty t-shirt, this song was kind of funny the first time around. Ten years on and the seams are wearing a little thin. We think it’s about time Avid Merrion passed the Christmas spirit onto Keith Lemon.

Best: “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues If you’re British or Irish, this is probably your favourite Christmas song. If you’re not, odds are you’ve never heard it. It’s dreary, it’s dismal, and the words are pretty much indistinguishable apart from one famous phrase. We order you to listen, you’ll love it.

Best: “Christmas Tree” by Lady Gaga Lots of fa-la-la’s, ho-ho-ho’s and cheesy innuendos about Christmas trees and lady-parts – it’s just so bad, it’s good.

Worst: “Mad World” by Gary Julez Beautiful voice, beautiful song, but depressing as hell. Plus, it’s the reason that The Darkness never made Christmas number one with their festive classic, “Christmas Time (Don’t Let The Bells End);.

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Spotlight - Emma Guglez

Spotlight

EMMA GUGLEZ Sheffield is home to one of the most diverse and fruitful art and music scenes in the country. Catering for all tastes and abilities, the city is a hub of creativity and imagination, boasting a host of galleries - from the small, intimate Old Sweet Shop, right through to the spacious Millennium Gallery – and music venues, from the ever reliable weekly West Street Live, to our annual crowning jewel, Tramlines Festival. Each month we aim to shine our Chic Spotlight on one of the Steel City’s most inspired artists. This month we met with multidisciplinary artist, Emma Guglez, who was born and raised in Algeciras, Southern Spain, but has spent the past year calling the Steel City home. Emma’s work - which encompasses all artistic mediums - is consistently evocative, occasionally provocative and always fascinating. We quizzed Emma about her art, her heritage, her time in Sheffield and her plans for the future . . .

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Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47


Spotlight - Emma Guglez

Tell us a little about yourself, Emma. I was born and brought up in Algeciras, Cádiz, a few miles from Gibraltar, although as a result of moving around, I often feel as though I’m from ‘everywhere and nowhere simultaneously.’ I spent my childhood and part of my adolescence in Algeciras and moved to Granada just before I started University. On finishing university I began my Sheffield adventure. At what point did you begin to have an interest in art? What were your early influences? My father was my primary influence, and although he never actually worked as a professional artist he was very talented and often produced fascinating pieces of artwork. My home wasn’t a typically bohemian household, although it did have an artistic atmosphere. The walls were full of pictures and the bookshelves were always filled with books. From a very young age whenever I was asked the question ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ I always answered ‘an artist’ and my answer still remains the same. When I was five years old I started attending art class. My teacher, Juan Zahara was a great artist, and has since remained one of my main inspirations. Which artists do you most identify with? Who do you admire and who do you find most influential? Apart from these artists, what else inspires you when you create your work? When I was young I didn’t know much about artists other than what I’d learnt from a few books at home and a few comments made by my art teacher. As I progressed through university this started to change and my opinions began to evolve. It’s quite difficult to determine the specific external forces influencing my work as it is a highly complex issue. I’ve never met one particular person who has significantly guided the direction and style of my artwork, although I’ve evidently been influenced by my teachers, throughout my education. There have been many seemingly ordinary events, people, situations and pieces of art that will obviously have influenced my artwork, although without my direct knowledge. This includes exposure to both great and alternatively ‘not so great’ artists. However, some of the artists and artwork I particularly admire include Juan Zahara, my first art teacher, Salvador Dalí’s work on surrealism, Gustav Klimt’s Art Nouveau (including others), Juan Gris’ Cubism, Franz Kline’s black and white and Banksy’s social contents. Some of the less well-known artists I also admire include Audrey Kawasaki or El niño de las pinturas (a great Spanish graffiti artist). I’m also inspired by direct and indirect stimulus, sensations and feelings; to put it another way, I’m inspired by absolutely everything surrounding me. Which art media (drawing, video, photography) and materials particularly interest you and why? I work with a diverse range of material, depending how and what I want to express. However, I’m equally as content to work with whatever materials I have at my disposal. Black pen on paper, acrylic on board, canvas or walls (I’ve done several murals), aquarelle on paper, mixed media, digital media, sculptures, installations, public interventions, video, photography, and I also try not to veer too far away from graphic design. It usually depends on the project and how I want to convey it or how I feel at that moment. The majority of my work

uses drawing as a foundation which can be seen as very characteristic of my work. I define myself as a drawer because I have always had an attraction to lines. Most of my pictures either originate from or culminate as drawings. My artistic background has taught me to build through drawing, a technique I have been perfecting and which is now evident in my art work. I am very interested in the shapes and narratives I can create through drawing and often view this technique as a more effective tool for communication. What are you looking for with your art work? Against what or who do you react? My drawings seek to communicate certain ideas and feelings which stem from my inner world. They represent introspective journeys towards our more base instincts, shaped from perceived notions of morality and convention. My work tries to react against the absurd things we hunt down and the damage we cause; it can also be seen as a comment on the human way to create and destroy simultaneously. How would you define your style? How did you get to create your own language? I think my work sits within the boundaries of Symbolic Realism, using a wide variety of diverse materials. I always try to keep the key elements of my pictures to a minimum. I don’t like to overcomplicate a picture; I prefer it when a picture is clear. Technique and style are difficult to define. They develop according to what I want to communicate; they’ve rarely experienced a static condition. Each piece of work develops and evolves and within each piece of work you can find different techniques and styles. I rarely learn a technique and then put it into practice. I usually try to experiment with materials and explore their properties. The art work is usually bred from this dialogue between the idea and the material. Do you think if viewers pay attention to your work it is because of technique or because of image? If people notice my work, it’s usually due to a combination of the technique used and the overall image portrayed. I expect to communicate through my work; if they get the message, I am happy. I know the messages conveyed can lead to rejection or displeasure but I find both are preferable to indifference. What is the creative process involved in completing a piece of your work? The creative process varies depending on what I would like to achieve. Sometimes I will begin with sketching which, I know will easily lead me to what I want to draw at a later date; other times I’ll draw general basic lines which will undergo a process of continual modification along the way. I usually reflect ‘in the moment’, as I go along, with a pencil in my hand, ‘doing and undoing. What projects are you working on now? Are you planning any exhibitions? The production of my artwork is currently moving forward quite slowly as my job eats away a lot of my time and energy. I work at Creative Arts Development Space (CADS), a multi-purpose arts complex. CADS rent out studios to people who produce art. The building also has large ‘spaces’ where a variety of art events are held, including exhibitions, installations, music performances,

theatre, film, etc. I think it is one of the more interesting artistic spaces to visit in Sheffield. My responsibility at CADS is mainly to ‘fit out’ spaces and get everything ready for the events we hold. Outside work I try to create new artwork destined for the Sporf Project. A project I’m currently involved with, Sporf tries to identify local and international artists to promote and to help them sell their high quality digitized art (also originals). One of the promotional aspects of the job is to invite the artists to group exhibitions. One particular event, held last November, had spectacular results including showcasing the work of a number of prominent artists, including Augustinas Narsenas and Darren Washington, amongst many others. In addition to this I have also completed several murals, at CADS, over the last year. I generally have free reign over the walls at CADS so I can fill the spaces with my doodles, turning to my brushes and paint whenever if there isn’t too much work to do. What do you think about Culture, policy development and the management of it in this country? Do you think there are spaces enabled and available to exhibit? Many people criticize the government in relation to culture and I’m not about to contradict such a widely held belief. My country is currently in the midst of a serious financial crisis and each week another art gallery/museum/centre closes as more and more cost cutting measures impact directly on art and culture. This is because art and culture are directly tied to the government. The Government control almost all of our culture (apart from self-managed cultural spaces). Despite this, I hope that artists and other art professionals will be able to adapt and to create new and more interesting ways to manage culture and not permit a dilution of the arts. Spain has many artists and cultural professionals and as such has great artistic potential. I think ‘the arts’ are managed very differently in the UK, the Arts Council operates independently to the government, although they get some funding contributions from government. However, it manages to exist much more independently which consequently encourages the public to form their own opinion and to choose what they consider better for them. This also helps to strengthen the already robust industry which surrounds art and culture in the UK. What advantages and disadvantages are created by new technologies and social networks when it comes to the teaching, promotion, and dissemination of art? I think the relationship between social networks and art has become fundamental to the promotion and dissemination of art. Social networks and blogs have opened up the world of art to a section of the public who may have previously been excluded from this realm. Social networking and blogs can help to bridge a class and cultural divide which often exists in the exhibition, teaching and promotion of collections of work. Social networks and blogs also offer the artist a sense of immediacy and proximity with his/her audience whilst the creative process in on-going. The advent of social networks has also given previously unknown artists a forum to promote and distribute their work through a channel his/her audience can easily access.

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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From City of Steel to a Creative Melting Pot

SHEFFIELD ARTS CITY - F r o m C i t y o f S t e e l t o a C r e a t i ve M e lt i n g P o t -

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From City of Steel to a Creative Melting Pot When it comes to creativity, Sheffield has perhaps trailed behind other cosmopolitan areas of the North in the past. This could perhaps be attributed to the fact that until the 1980s the steel City was exactly that; the city of industry where the production of Steel came to characterise the cities entire cultural make-up. Before this there was little room for creativity; we didn’t need it to keep our economy booming. However, the loss of major industry that accompanied the Thatcher years were devastating - we lost business and as a result we lost money. Eventually the city recovered and this was largely due to the re-branding of the Steel City as a place for students and young idealists with ounces of creativity, talent and above all, ambition. The result is that Sheffield is now flourishing, we are stronger and richer than ever and this has a lot to do with the influx of young talent we have seen in recent years. Now we are at the forefront of British music, design, art and fashion and the cobwebs of the steel industry have well and truly been brushed away. This month we take a look at how the city transformed and ask just what happened to make Sheffield a haven for young artists everywhere? Sheffield, once a small medieval town, began to become a centre of industry in the 1700s with the Industrial Revolution. This era saw the city come to the forefront of steel production and coal mining which transformed it into the city we know today. The downturn began with the 1973 oil crisis, which hit the entire country hard, but hit nowhere as hard as Sheffield. Coupled with the wide reaching rationalisation in steel production in the same decade throughout the European Economic Community, inevitably the City lost valuable contracts and ultimately lost money. By the time Thatcher became an issue in the 1980s the city was already in a major state of decline. Something had to be done, the situation was becoming dire and as a result the Sheffield Cultural Revolution was born. Massive renovation projects coupled with the rise in young artists bringing acclaim to the city rejuvenated Sheffield in a way that resulted in a complete transformation. Today Sheffield is a radically different place, where not a whisper is heard of steel production and Sheffield is the birth place of innovators and creatives. Just what were the conditions that led to this rebirth? The first has to be the building renovations the city underwent in the latter half of the Twentieth Century. The projects saw the building of Meadowhall on the old city steel works, the investing in building of new sports facilities such as Don Valley Stadium, the architectural triumph of the building of such unique buildings as The Sheffield Hallam Hubs and the opening of centres of culture the Millennium Gallery and the Winter Gardens. The result is the influx of culture through forms of art, architecture, design and various other mediums that have sparked passion and creativity. These places bring elements of different cultures to the people of the Steel City, and as a result the Steel City itself acts to inspire.

Another reason is what has collectively come to be known as Sheffield One, a group of projects targeted at rejuvenating Sheffield’s City Centre. These projects have concentrated on the urban development of several areas including the Devonshire Quarter, Sheaf Valley, the Heart of the City, Castlegate Quarter and Victoria Quays. The result is that these areas have become a centre of commerce. They have become places of ideas and innovation, introducing new concepts to the Sheffield public en masse. This means that the youth of Sheffield have access to a wider breadth of inspiration than ever before. The third factor in this rejuvenation has to be the rising student population. Today the Steel City is a city of students, our universities are now among the best in the country. The conclusion we reach here is that students bring new ideas and experiences to the table. They bring something else to the mix and the chance to converse with people who come from an entirely different culture is something that sparks the sort of ideas that become legend. Along with all this, the growing multi-cultural nature of the city has §added to its transformation. The whole country has embraced multi-cultural ideals over the last several decades. This is especially true for Sheffield, as the rising number of international immigrants coming over to call the city home, along with the increase in international students at Sheffield universities, means that the city itself has become more multi-cultural. The city now caters to the tastes of people around the world, with international restaurants, fashion boutiques and art becoming a staple of Steel City society, forging a wonderful cultural melting pot. People are being inspired by the whole world in our little city and the results speak for themselves. Speaking of new additions to the city’s cultural landscape, the city has innovated its own music scene over recent years. This has ultimately culminated in the mega-weekend extravaganza, ‘Tramlines’. The festival showcases the best in UK music and literally shuts down the whole city for an entire weekend in July. It sees hundreds of thousands of music fans descend on Sheffield every year and Tramlines has everything from dance pop to folk music from a variety of both home grown and more well known, international acts. This year alone Tramlines welcomed big name headlining acts such as Miss Dynamite and Roots Manuva along with local heroes like Sarah Mac. This weekend alone acts as major inspiration for the artists and creatives of the city.

Bad to the bones

Local Fashion house Skull and Bones Boys Club is exactly that – a radical T-Shirt printing service for men that takes intricate designs and makes them a reality. Completely self sufficient, the men’s fashion house print, dye and sew all the garments by hand and the result is that they produce the hottest clothes to add some colour, style and class to wardrobes worldwide, all with a hint of Steel City grit. www.skullandbonesboysclub.com Other independant Sheffield brands to look out for: XCVB, Our Kid Apparel, Three Pillars, Who?, Retreat, Infinity Clothing, Unrefined, Alone, Hantu Collective, Localled plus many more found in Balance, Sheffield, 156 Devonshire Street.

In conclusion, this city has undergone a massive revolution. It was once the very picture of post war doom and gloom. The end of the traditional Sheffield Steel Industry forced the city to change its ways and through several cultural renovations a whole new host of creative talent has risen to the fore, sparking passion and creativity in equal measure. Today the city is a very different place and is the home of artists, musicians and designers of all manner who have sparked new life into the once sparse Sheffield skyline. Chic has looked at three examples of Sheffield artists who have risen to the fore and brought life into our hearts.

KID ACNE

Originally born in Malawi in 1978, Kid Acne now lives and works as an artist in Sheffield, coming to call the Steel City home and his time in Sheffield has produced an artist of great talent. He has since been a featured artist for such prestigious companies as Prada, Levis, Volkswagen and Elle, bringing his own unique artistic touch and style to their respective brands. He also exhibits his artwork all over the world with his latest exhibition Damn Straight / Inoperable featuring soon in Vienna. Kid Acne is a real story of someone being inspired to make great art by his time living and working in the Steel City.

Wet Nuns

Having released new album ‘So Cold’ this year, Wet Nuns, are a Sheffield group at the forefront of music in the Steel City and are currently taking the UK by storm on a nation wide tour throughout the Autumn and Winter. Relying on a hardcore sound Wet Nuns bring a bit of dark rebellion to the Yorkshire music scene and continue Sheffield’s reputation as the UK’s music capital. Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Food & drink | Recipe

Cheesecake Brownies A delicious and dazzling dessert that will satisfy every sweet tooth – this recipe combines dense and fudgy brownie with a silky cheesecake-like topping.

Chicken Fricassee

Poached chicken in a cream and lemon sauce; equally delicious as a filling for vol-au-vaunts, chicken pies, pancakes or served on a bed of rice.

Ingredients: 100g butter, cut into cubes / 100 g dark chocolate, in drops or broken into pieces / 125g caster sugar / 3 eggs, beaten / 75g selfraising flour /1 tbsp cocoa powder / 100g dark chocolate, in chips or chopped into pieces / 200g cream cheese / 2 egg yolks / 75g caster sugar Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Butter a 20cm cake tin - if it has a removable base, butter the sides and line the base with a square of baking parchment, otherwise line the base and sides of the tin. 2. Place the butter and chocolate in a saucepan and melt over a low heat. Stir until smooth, then remove from the heat and beat in the sugar and a pinch of salt, followed by the eggs. 3. Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, add the chocolate chips and stir in. Tip the batter into the prepared tin and spread out using a spatula. 4. In a clean bowl, beat all the ingredients for the cheesecake mixture together until smooth. Dot heaped teaspoonfuls of this mixture across the top of the brownie batter in the tin, then use a skewer or knife to swirl the two mixtures together, right across the tin and up to the edges. 5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the middle of the cake still wobbles slightly when you gently shake the tin – a skewer inserted into the centre should come out with a little moisture on it. 6. Remove from the oven, place on a wire rack and allow to cool completely in the tin before carefully removing the cake and cutting into squares to serve.

Five Low-Cal Snacks for this Winter - Figs (six figs = 96 calories). Figs are seriously filling, and that’s because they are one of the best sources of fibre you can eat. - Frozen Yoghurt/Low Fat Sorbet (two scoops = 85 calories).This is a great way to cut calories and still secure that sweet kick. - Carrot Sticks and Hummus (100 calories). This is a healthy and nutritious snack that your body will thank you for.

Ingredients: 1.75kg oven-ready chicken / 450ml water /1 onion, peeled and chopped / 2 stalks of celery, washed and chopped / 6 black peppercorns / salt and ground black pepper / 1 carrot, washed and sliced / 25g flour / 45g butter or margarine / 1 egg yolk / 150ml double cream /1 tablespoon lemon juice / chopped fresh parsley / lemon slices, to garnish Method: 1. Place the chicken in a large pan, then add the water, peppercorns and seasoning. 2. Add the vegetables to the pan then bring to a simmer. 3. Cook slowly for about 40 minutes or until chicken is tender. 4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. 5. Strain the stock, reserving three quarters of a pint for the sauce. 6. Lift the chicken meat from the bone, discard the skin, then arrange meat in a hot dish. 7. Melt the butter or margarine in a small pan, stir in the flour and cook for half a minute. 8. Remove from the heat and stir in the stock. 9. Bring to a simmer while stirring continuously to form a smooth sauce. 10. Cook gently for about 5 minutes. 11. Put the egg yolk and cream into a small basin and mix. 12. Stir in a little of the hot sauce, blend well and return to the pan. Remove the pan from the heat, stir in the lemon juice, then season to taste. 13. Spoon over the chicken and mix in. 14. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and garnish with slices of lemon. 15. Serve with boiled rice.

- Crab Sticks with Sweet Chilli Dip (4 sticks = 100 calories). High in protein, low in fat, as well as boasting a host of other vitamins and minerals, crab sticks are a snack not to be snubbed. - Dark Chocolate (six squares = 100 calories). Chocolate can be good for you, especially when it’s dark. Low in saturated fat, bursting with metabolism-boosting caffeine, and packed with toxin-fighting antioxidants.

Sheffield Food Events:

Sheffield Farmers Market – This month’s farmers market falls on Thursday 20th December. Operating from the top of Fargate the market is a great place to buy fresh produce from local farmers and local bakeries. You can find a rich assortment of fresh goods including pickles, fruit, vegetables, jams and a selection of fresh meats.

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Christmas Markets – It’s that time of year again folks. In the run up to Christmas the city puts on the most amazing Christmas markets up and down Barkers Pool. There are stalls for every type of food imaginable, all fresh and ready for you to take away. A truly international market not to be missed! Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47


Food & drink | Review

Food

LAHORE

Three Course Meal £6.95 Sun-Thurs 5pm - 11pm Fri-Sat 5pm - 7pm

Situated in the heart of the city, prime positioned on West Street, lies Lahore. Formally under the arm of popular restaurant name Nawaab, the restaurant has steadily gained enough recognition for its fine Asian cuisine to now become an independent establishment. The restaurant itself has a modern, contemporary feel, simply decorated offering a focus on the food. Prominence is given to the heavy tables and chairs, with the huge wall-length windows providing an enviable view of the iconic Sheffield trams and an ideal excuse to people watch. Greeted and led to our table, we started with the preliminary popadoms, accompanied with pickle tray including mango puree, onion, creamy mint yoghurt and fiery hot chilli sauce. Crisp and warm, the popadoms quelled our hunger and set our taste buds tingling for more. Offered a selection of the chef ’s favourites, we were treated to Karahi Gosht and Nirali Special. The Karahi consisted of lamb chunks marinated in garlic and ginger sauce, roasted with fresh tomatoes, cumin seeds, bayleaf, cardamom, spices and herbs. Karahi is one of my personal favourites, and although I usually go for chicken, this Gosht dish has persuaded me to favour the lamb! Tender, succulent and filled with medium spices, this didn’t suffer from a Karahi’s tendency to be too dry, and was delicious. The Nirali Special is a Chef of the Year Award Winning Dish, and it’s easy to taste why. Diced, boneless chicken marinated with yoghurt and special masala sauce with selected herbs, the dish is cooked with fresh tomatoes, ginger, onions and a blend of spices, with fresh double cream, garnished with cashew nuts and fried onions. A milder dish, the cream gave a smooth, velvety texture, buttery with a hint of spice, luscious when scooped up with a piece of naan and the cashews added a special something I’d not encountered in an Indian dish before. Along with a couple of meat samosas packed with mincemeat, herbs and spices, we accompanied the dishes with pilau rice; soft and perfectly cooked, a coriander naan filled with coriander and cumin seeds, and a garlic naan, both soft, doughy, hot and moist, the way a scrumptious naan should be.

Want to be reviewed in our magazine? Contact us on 0114 261 07 08 or email us at info@chiclifestylemagazine.co.uk

95-101 West Street, Sheffield, S1 4EQ www.lahoresheffield.co.uk

After eating as much as we possibly could, I was definitely impressed with the food, overflowing with subtle flavours and seasoned to perfection. The chef was certainly a wizard with the spices, preparing new dishes for me which I will undoubtedly be ordering again in the future, which is any restaurant’s mark of success. Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Living | Christmas

Living

Foliage Filled Glass Christmas Baubel £2.50 - Marks & Splecer Outdoor LED Reindeer £79.99, festive-lights.com

LED Popsicle Lights, Soft White x 100 £25 - John Lewis

Outdoor LED Reindeer £79.99 - festive-lights.com

Linea Decadence Musical Note Decoratione £7.50 - House of Frasier

Marcel Wanders Stocking £19.50 - Marks & Spencer

Fine Stripe Table Cloth £35 - John Lewis

Gisela Graham Large Bristle Head Reindeer Ornament £39.95 - Selfridges

Christmas is a time for celebration. A time for family gatherings over mulled wine and holiday movies. But while you’re busy playing the perfect host, it’s important that your house looks the perfect festive abode – landing somewhere sensible between Santa’s grotto and the Grinch’s living room.

Step 1: All of the lights Standing as the centre piece in your winter wonderland, selecting a tree is always a good place to start. The secret to a pretty Christmas tree is to decorate in layers. Start from the base and work your way to the top, illuminating each major branch with a trail of delicate lights. A tree that glows from the inside out will be the most visually dynamic and really make your other decorations come to life. In terms of colour and style, the high street is your oyster; just make sure your running wire matches the colour of your tree for that extra touch of precision.

Step 2: Garlands and wonder There are no firm rules when draping your tree with adornments. A classy look, with a personal

touch is always a winner. In terms of technique, start at the tip of the tree and slowly increase the amount of garland between each wave as you work your way down the branches. To avoid a crowded look, use a mixture of simple and fancy decorations: Start by placing your favourite ornaments in prime positions, then add in your baubles evenly starting with the largest first. Ensure to place some décor closer to the trunk to create depth.

Step 3: The icing on the cake Finish your dressing with a touch of tinsel or some wintry icicles loosely wrapped around the entire tree. Spritz with a soft coat of bottled snow or glitter, top it off with an embellished star or guardian angel and wait for the present pile to multiply beneath.

Step 4: Room to room Christmas is the perfect time to deck the halls and beyond. For a tasteful yet festive feel, take the colour scheme of your tree and subtly extend it throughout the house. How far you want to go entirely depends on how clutter free or full your preferences are. For a general base, carefully lace your décor around fire places, cabinet tops and window sills. Candles, pine cones, stockings and ornaments are a few favourites.

not wow your guests and frame your efforts with spectacular table décor?

Step 6: It’s a wrap Wrapping is crucial, so why not take the time to add some tasteful touches to the outside of your house. Complete your festive fiesta and show your family and friends that you’re really inviting the holidays into your home this Christmas.

Step 5: Dine in style When the countdown is over, and the presents are opened, the next stop is Christmas dinner. No doubt you’ll have slaved for hours carving the perfect turkey, cooking the crispest vegetables and mastering the tastiest cranberry sauce: Why

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Beauty | Tips

Beauty Tips

Sparkly decoration doesn’t just stop at the tree; the party season is almost upon us and this is the time to throw caution to the winds and embrace your hidden, inner love of sparkle and magic in the beauty department. A little bit of glitz and glam can go a long way in turning your usual make up routine into something a lot more festive, so we’ve found a selection of our top shimmering tricks to give dazzle to your drabness.

Hot Product Nail Rock Frou Frou, £5.99

Glint and Glitz

It wouldn’t be a proper party without a veil of glitter casting a dazzling glint across the room. Use the festive cheer as an excuse to glam up with our pick of the most brilliant bits of bling.

There’s nothing wrong with a bit of kitsch in the holiday season. And what better way to fest up your talons than with a spot of Frou Frou? Nail Rock’s latest creation, Frou Frou consists of a set of themed embellishments to stick upon your nails, available in Thanks Giving, Seasonal, Bears and Fruit Burst… candy cane adorned fingers, anyone?

Bobbi Brown Choose Your Black Collection

• Shimmer Dust Set Topshop, £12

• Jewel Glitter Nail Paint in Ruby Barry M, £2.99

• Violent Eyes – Jet Black Glitterati Violent Lips, £6.25

• Bronze Shimmer Brick Bobbi Brown, £32

• The Red Velvet – Glitterati Mix Violent Lips, £9.36

• We Are Faux Lashes Sasco Superdrug, £8.99

Make up pros Bobbi Brown have launched their new collection, Choose Your Black. The collection consists of Kohl Cake Liner, Smokey Eye Liner Brush, Long-Wear Eye Pencil, Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner and Kohl Eyeliner, giving you the option to draw attention to your baby blues with as much oomph as you can handle.

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Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47


Beauty | Review

New Loyalty Card Free Treatment With Ten Stamps

Top Nails 288 Ecclesall Road Sheffield S11 8PE 0114 268 4061

A perfect set of beautifully manicured nails add a touch of glam to everyday life. But to achieve terrific talons one can’t just go anywhere; Top Nails is one of the best places in the city to mani-pedi you up to the max. I popped down to try a little pampering for myself.

Want to be reviewed in our magazine? Contact us on 0114 261 07 08 or email us at info@chiclifestylemagazine.co.uk

At Top Nails there’s not much you can ask for which they won’t be able to provide! Whether you fantasise about a classic French manicure, crystal laden glitter tips or even 3D bows adorning your nails, the Top Nail technicians can make your nail dreams come true. Acrylic, gel powder and polish, airbrush, Shellac gel polish, Bio Sculpture (French or polish) and pedicures and manicures are all on the menu at Top Nails, and it’s not all about nails; Jinny Lash Extensions, threading and semi-permanent make up are also available. I played it safe and opted for a full set of acrylics with white tips. I’m a lover of the acrylic; easily lasting for over a month, acrylic nails are easy to look after, don’t break and cause minimal damage to the natural nails when removed properly, allowing the nails to grow long without breaking. My technician started by removing my current coloured polish, then filed the nails down to a short length and buffed up the surface with an electric file, creating a smooth, clean surface on which to apply the acrylic. She then selected the correct size of tip for each nail, adding a dab of glue to the white plastic tip and sticking each one to about a third of the way down my nail. After applying a dab of oil to each nail, she started with the acrylic. Acrylic starts off as powder, which turns into a gel once the liquid chemical touches it. With a brush she carefully dipped the brush in the liquid and powder, then skilfully applied the gel to each of my nails, smoothing it into place covering my whole nail and the white tip, to give a perfect finish.

The acrylic dries almost instantly, allowing my technician to finish off the edges of the nails with a file and squaring them off. After she buffed up the surface to give a perfectly levelled nail, I washed my hands then the technician applied two coats of clear polish, and I set the polish under the UV dryer. The result was a set of perfect nails, glossy and perfect with white tips sparkling. Love them. Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Hair | Review

WIGS AND WARPAINT 11 West One Plaza, Fitzwilliam Street, Sheffield, S1 4JB 0114 270 03 36 www.wigsandwarpaint.com

With the party season fully upon us, there’s never been a better time to treat your locks to a good dose of TLC. Wigs and Warpaint, Sheffield’s multi-award winning salon, is packed to the rafters with the skills and inspiration to smother your hair with love and give you more sparkle than the fairy on top of the tree this December.

• After a full analysis of my dull, limp locks, we decided that a boost of colour was most definitely required for ultimate oomph. As I’m naturally quite fair, Holly chose a cool, creamy colour to complement my skin tone. • We went for three shades of blonde to add depth and interest to the colour: a really light blonde, soft blonde and darker blonde, keeping it natural. • Holly mixed and applied the colour throughout a full head of highlights, using foils to separate the hair. • After leaving on for about 20 minutes, my hair was washed with Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo and a Moroccanoil Treatment to strengthen my weak strands and give a lush look. • A toner was applied to lighten up the colour and make it dazzle to its full potential. • To style, Holly went for a glam, wavy look. She applied a blast of Sebastian Volupt Spray to inject a boost of volume, and Sebastian Mousse Forte to hold the curls. • Blow drying with a round brush and using a curling tong to create big curls and waves, Holly sprayed a spritz of Sebastian Shaper Fierce Hair Spray to finish. The Verdict My mane has been transformed; going from a dull straggle of dry ends to a voluptuous, sparkling showstopper. The colour is fantastic – blonde and bright yet not too yellow or ashy, with the different shades blending to give a more natural-looking depth. The condition of my hair is stunning – just one dose of the Moroccanoil has already infused in some much-needed gloss and softness, making my hair look in far better condition.

The Products • Moroccanoil – Antioxidant infused, nutrient rich formulas, inspired by an oil product discovered in Israel, which give dramatic results, leaving hair smooth and shiny whilst actually improving its condition. • Extra Volume Shampoo – Contains antioxidant argan oil and nutrients to cleanse, detangle and bring back body to hair, without drying, fading or stripping colour. • Treatment – Transforms and repairs, replenishing lost proteins for strength, fatty acids, omega-3 oils and vitamins for shine and antioxidants for protection. • Sebastian – Formed in the 1970s, their products aim to use fearless styling to create catwalk-ready styles. • Volupt Spray – A spray gel to build volume and softness using cushion particle technology. • Mousse Forte – Defines waves and curls with a strong hold whilst remaining soft; protects from heat damage and controls frizz. • Shaper Fierce – The strongest hold, freezing styles with a high shine gloss. Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

Want to be reviewed in our magazine? Contact us on 0114 261 07 08 or email us at info@chiclifestylemagazine.co.uk

I popped down to have my hair glossed and glammed by Wig Trainee Holly Aldersley, who transformed my mane into the belle of the ball. The Process

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New shop opening in Sheffield Training

Martial Arts

Boxing

Fitness

Pro-X Sports, one of the country’s top online specialists for Mixed Martial Arts, Boxing, Nutrition Supplements, Fitness and Training Gear, are bringing their first retail outlet to Sheffield this Spring!

What’s more, a former world class Taekwondo champion who competed for England will be managing the shop! So you can expect highly personalised service and get real insightful tips and advice from Shabir Akhtar and his experienced team.

The 1000 square foot shop on London Road will be home to what promises to be the largest stock of equipment and clothing in South Yorkshire.

Did you know that Shabir, a keen boxer, was the first person in the country to have won both the heavy weight title for the ITF BTC Championship in England and the WTF BTC title (Olympic Style Taekwondo)?

Pro-X Sports’ extensive stock means that for virtually anything you need, For the very best in martial arts fightwear, you’ll find it! At knock-out prices. boxing gear, fitness and training Customers can expect to choose equipment, nutrition supplements and from over 2000 products ranging from much more – head to Pro-X Sports, on gloves to training weapons, sparring 35a London Road, from 31st March! and weights to name but a few. Pro-X Pro-X Sports – knockout also offers a great selection of clothing and uniforms from leading brands. prices whatever your game!

www.pro-xsports.com

Join us on Facebook to get a 10% discount!

0844 800 1724 ProXSportsUK

@ProXSports


City Break | Stockholm

City Break

STOCKHOLM

The Jewel of Scandinavia. The blue and green city. The gateway to Lapland. The herald of the Northern Lights. The Venice of the North. These descriptions are ostentatious, grandiose and even triumphant in nature, extolling virtue. However, when applied to the Swedish capital city of Stockholm they are fairly accurate. A city built in the 14 islands that comprise a portion of Sweden’s South East coast; Stockholm is a city whose beauty rivals that of infamous island city Venice and whose history is on par with the likes of London and Paris. A trip to Stockholm is a journey into the icy heart of Scandinavia’s dark Nordic history and grandeur.

Attractions The Royal Palace: Sweden’s monarchy is as

fraught by dynastic betrayal and treachery as any of the great European royal houses. If you want to truly explore the fascinating story of how Sweden transformed a traditionally elected monarchy to its modern constitutional monarchy, then the official residence of the monarchs of Sweden is a must. Officially one of the largest royal palaces in Europe, with over 600 rooms, it was built in the traditional Italian Baroque architectural style and sits on the spot of the original residence of the Swedish Kings, the Tre Kronor Castle, which was burned to the ground in 1697. Open to the public and boasting no less than five official museums, a trip to The Royal Palace of Sweden is not just a chance to explore the way the modern Swedish monarchs live, but a chance to explore their history. Particular highlights include the royal reception rooms, with splendid interiors from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the Rikssalen (Hall of State) with Swedish Queen Kristina’s silver throne and Ordenssalarna (Halls of the Order of Chivalry). You can also visit Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities, the Tre Kronor Museum and the treasury. A visit to the Royal Palace takes you to the heart of Stockholm’s grandeur and unique history.

Fotografiska: For those who want to take a break from the annals of Swedish history to embrace somewhere more modern, then the Fotografiska,

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Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

located on Stadsgårdshamnen, is the place for you. Billed as one of the world’s largest meeting places for photography, the Fotografiska is a boho haven. Showing photography from some of the true greats in the field, past exhibitions include the works of such masters of the craft as Annie Leibovitz, Anders Petersen and Christopher Makos. A truly international experience, a trip to this infamous gallery will show you the best in photography and truly prove that when it comes to this art form, Sweden’s contributions stand up there with the best. Fotografiska houses an academy, bistro, cafe, bar, conference rooms, museum shop, gallery and event spaces.

Gamla Stan: This is the traditional Stockholm

old town which has buildings that date right back to the thirteenth century. The oldest part of the city, which is housed on the Stadsholmen island, is mostly comprised of medieval walkways, cobbled streets and archaic architecture (Northern German architecture has had a strong influence on the building’s architectural make-up). The area is home Stockholm’s most important and culturally significant buildings including the Stockholm Cathedral (built in the thirteenth century), the royal palace, the Nobel Museum (as in Nobel Peace prize) and Sweden’s House of Nobility (a palace built as a centre of advocacy for the rights of the Swedish nobility). Once considered a slum with its historic buildings left in disrepair, Gamla Stan has now been restored and is ready for you to discover!

Food Den Gyldene Freden: Situated in the heart of

Gamla Stan, Den Gyldene Freden (The Golden Peace in English) is in fact Stockholm’s oldest restaurant, and even more impressively one of the oldest in the world, having been originally built as a tavern in 1722. Today it is exclusive, but well worth a visit as it cooks traditional Swedish Cuisine, especially dishes involving the Scandinavian delicacy, Reindeer Meat. Beware that the average price for a meal anyway in Stockholm is high, and at Den Gyldene Freden the average price is around £70 per dish. Expensive but worth it, Den Gyldene Freden reflects Sweden’s high standard of living and makes you feel like royalty!

Frantzén/Lindeberg: Situated in the heart of

the old town, this restaurant moves from old to new, embracing Swedish classic minimalism and modernity and is actually one of this year’s trendiest hotspots for those wishing to dine on the finest cuisine Stockholm has to offer. Often cited as one of the world’s 50 best restaurants, and rated with two Michelin Stars, it’s the home to high cuisine with dishes such as escargot and caviar d’escargot. Dishes that are sure to get your mouth watering include bone marrow with smoked parsley and smetana and osteria caviare, lamb with cumin, lavender and aubergine as well as Satio Tempestas. If you’re after the ultimate in high class cuisine then this is the restaurant for you.


City Break | Stockholm

Le Rouge: Situated on Brunnsgrand Street, again

The Royal Palace

in the heart of the old town, Le Rouge moves away from traditional Swedish minimalism to provide a much more international feel. It’s classically French in feel and décor. Warm, sumptuous and Mediterranean, it’s like an Oasis in the heart of the frozen tundra that is Stockholm in the winter and, of course, its menu is classically French. With dishes around £40 -£60 on average, it is well worth the price you have to pay and an absolute treat, the mood provided by the basement restaurant, with Moulin Rouge style draperies and ornate hanging gold chandeliers make you feel as though you are in a French Boudoir, whilst still feeling a classic Swedish twist!

Nightlife Sturecompagniet: The biggest club in Stock-

holm, indeed in the whole of Sweden, Sturecompagniet is the ultimate in luxury, ostentation and largesse. It’s where the stars of Swedish society go to let their hair down and relax, maybe get a little wild too! Located at Sturegatan 4, near Humelgarden, this club is chic, modern, banging and funky with blaring, wall to wall beats, funky neon wall art, pink furry sofas in its infamous rainbow room and glittering neon lights. Drinks here are fairly expensive, even by Swedish standards and the cocktails (it has a massive cocktail menu) cost an arm and a leg, but for the atmosphere it is most definitely worth it!

Fotografiska

Fotografiska (inside)

Spy Bar

Den Gyldene Freden (inside)

Ambassadeur: Located at Kungsgatan 18, this

ultra chic establishment is the ultimate cultural melting pot, influenced by several cultures and traditions in a modern, sophisticated manner to bring you the best drinking experience possible. The biggest part of the club is the Ambassadeur White, where you can bop along all night to vocal house music, the ultimate in banging club tunes. In contrast the Ambassadeur Black Room focuses on smooth R&B/soul tunes which light the soul with a jazzy, upbeat feel. The last room, the Ambassadeur Gold Room is your pure nostalgia hotspot, with pop tunes from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s ready on the decks for you to dance the night away with, transporting you back to the peak of your clubbing days in the process.

Spy Bar: This bar of cultural legend sits in the

heart of Stureplan district, at Birger Jarlsgatan 20, and is possibly Stockholm’s most famous bar; a real meeting point for all you dedicated drinkers and party animals! A gathering point for the cultural elite of Stockholm, Spy Bar is where elitism meets the alternative crowd to provide something different, something so new it could just blow your mind. Grandiose yet somehow minimalist at the same time, Spy Bar manages to truly straddle two words and is the ultimate when it comes to contradiction, it has to be seen and witnessed to be believed.

Christmas: Christmas Market in the Old Town: There’s

nothing like an authentic Christmas market and Gamla Stan’s is absolutely one of the best in the world. Stalls upon stalls line the streets of the old town during Christmas, with activity being centred around Stortorget. The market is one of the oldest of its kind in the world, being established as far back as 1915. While the church bells of the cathedral play as you shop, you can buy all manner of Swedish sweets, meats, toys, souvenirs and Christmas gifts among a whole host of extraordinary homemade Swedish items.

Christmas Market Stall

So there you have it. Stockholm is one of the most culturally diverse, beautiful cities in the world and it’s easy to see why so many travel there every year. It’s got it all; history, architecture, nightlife, great food and atmosphere all among the glistening peaks of the highest snow topped spires. A trip to Stockholm is a trip into the heart of Nordic culture, heritage and tradition, something that absolutely cannot be missed!

Chic Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 47

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Rd

Available to download from itunes store and www.mercurytaxis.com


Asian - CHIC -

Motoring Car Review

Jaguar Land Rover is a key player within the UK economy. It is the largest investor in automotive research, development and engineering in this country and it generates billions of pounds of economic activity every year. - Range Rover Evoque SD4 Prestige LUX Automatic 3dr Coupé 1,500 new jobs have been created to support the launch of the Evoque, so it comes as no surprise that the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) is attracting a lot of attention. And rightly so, because the car delivers top levels of craftsmanship, economy, luxury and performance into a shrink-wrapped package. Aesthetically, the Evoque certainly marks a bold evolution of Range Rover design. With a striking rising beltline, a muscular shoulder running the length of the car, and a distinctive taper to the low floating roofline, the motor adopts an extremely vibrant profile with a commanding and muscular stance. Inside, the cabin provides exactly what you would expect; sumptuous surroundings with quality materials and an elegance befitting of a Range Rover interior.

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www.asianchic.co.uk

Rather than using a traditional trim hierarchy, the Evoque gives you the choice of three design themes: the cool and contemporary ‘Pure’, the luxurious ‘Prestige’, on test here, and the bold and sporting ‘Dynamic’. My SD4 Prestige LUX Automatic 3dr Coupé version came with a silver exterior, a panoramic roof, leather seats and a hide covered dash. Under the hood lurked a potent 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine married to a six-speed, creamy smooth automatic transmission. Behind the wheel, you feel confident and comfortable. Despite the low roof, visibility is very good, and the car feels powerful and balanced at motorway speeds with very little roll on more twisty routes. Of course, as a true Range Rover, the Evoque delivers allweather, all-surface competence too, which is enhanced by

the company’s signature Terrain ResponseTM system. The standard four-wheel-drive transmission is an innovative full-time intelligent assembly which continuously varies the front/rear torque split to deliver optimum grip and balance. The car also has generous ground clearance and better breakover, approach and departure angles than other premium compact SUVs. The Evoque will undoubtedly tempt rural based motorists who need this kind of vehicle to get around, as well as a new generation of business executives who want a nononsense car that also delivers oodles of style.

u @carwriteups www.carwriteups.co.uk


Asian

You Drink We Drive

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

- CHIC -

Range Rover Evoque SD4 Prestige LUX Automatic 3dr Coupé www.landrover.com

Max speed: 121 mph 0-60 mph: 8.5 secs Engine: 2179 cc 4 cylinder 16 valve turbo diesel Max. power (bhp): 190 at 3500 rpm Max. torque (Ib/ft): 309 at 1750 rpm CO2: 169 g/km Tech Price: £45,420 on the road

Spec www.asianchic.co.uk

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Far Eastern Promises a fusion of cultures, traditions and style


Asian - CHIC -

There are few places in the world more culturally alien to western sensibilities than the Far East. Japan, in particular - despite its global prominence as a financial power, a tech giant and regardless of our inexplicable love of sushi - is culturally, in terms of arts and etiquette, a world away from our china cups and ITV dramas. The overwhelming success of Studio Ghibli’s animated feature films then, is nothing short of miraculous. Founded by the undisputed king of anime, Hayao Miyazaki along with fellow film director Isao Takahata in 1985, the Ghibli team have produced seventeen feature-length films over their twenty-seven year history, almost half of which have been helmed by Miyazaki himself. A critical and commercial behemoth in their native Japan from the off, it wasn’t until Spirited Away became the first foreign-language film to win Best Animated Feature at the 2002 Academy Awards that the rest of the world warmed to Ghibli’s charms. Based in Tokyo, Ghibli have often been referred to as the “Japanese Disney”, in fact Disney control the studio’s distribution rights outside of Japan, but the comparison isn’t really fair; the consistent quality of Ghibli’s output coupled with their distinctly eastern sensibilities mark the studio out as a wholly unique beast. Many of Ghibli’s films are rooted in Japanese folklore, from the forest sprites inhabiting the world of Princess Mononoke to the forthcoming Takahata helmed Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, based on one of Japan’s oldest traditional narratives. Miyazaki’s own sensibilities too, permeate the bulk of Ghibli’s catalogue; his love of aviation (Castle in the Sky, Porco Rosso), strong young female leads (Spirited Away, Kiki’s Delivery Service) along with ever present ecological concerns (Princess Mononoke, Ponyo). Studio Ghibli have spent the past twenty seven years growing from Japanese heroes to international treasures – in a climate where the big animation studios are quick to jump on any fleeting fad that promises a quick turnover, the loving handcrafted beauty that fills each frame of a Ghibli movie is something to treasure and continually able to evoke a childlike wonder in even the most prudish grown-up. Ghibli’s latest feature, From Up on Poppy Hill, the second film directed by Hayao Miyazaki’s son, Gorō was released to great acclaim in Japan last year, and is set for a UK release in early 2013. To get you prepared we’ve selected our very favourite Ghibli films for you to check out; prepare yourself for a magical, mystical journey to the east . . . Laputa: Castle in the Sky (Hayao Miyazaki, 1986) Miyazaki’s third feature, and Ghibli’s first, is a highflying adventure set in an alternative-reality steampunk 19th century England, where the stratosphere is home to comical sky pirates, flying robots and mysterious floating castles. Its cult appeal runs deep yet it was not a big success, something Miyazaki feels is down to the fact he chose a young boy from a mining village to be its hero; almost every Miyazaki protagonist since has been female. The story follows the fortunes of a young boy, Pazu, who along with the mysterious Sheeta goes in search of the legendary floating castle of Laputa. Unfortunately they are not the only ones who seek the castle, and thus ensues an adventure caper through the skies featuring a host of pirates, sinister government officials and eco-warrior robots. The film introduces two key themes that Miyazaki would return to time and time again throughout his career – an ecologicallyminded narrative and the majesty of aviation. Grave of the Fireflies (Isao Takahata, 1988) Studio Ghibli’s name is not synonymous with family-friendly films, and a pervading sense of childlike whimsy, but closer inspection proves that there’s a lot more to the studio’s offerings. Case in point: the heart-rending Grave of the Fireflies, Isao Takahata’s first of four offerings for the studio, adapted from Akiyuki Nosaka’s semi-autobiographical novel about the death of his younger sister following the Allied firebombings of Kobe during World War II. Shot through with an aching sadness, yet lined with a persistent, bittersweet sense of hope, Grave of the Fireflies was a commercial flop in Japan (due in large part to its release as half of a comically mismatched double bill with My Neighbor Totoro), but it stands as one of Ghibli’s proudest critical moments, and a personal favourite of renowned film critic Roger Ebert, who called it, “an emotional experience so powerful that it forces a rethinking of animation.” My Neighbour Totoro (Hayao Miyazaki, 1988) Easily Ghibli’s best known and best loved feature. My Neighbour Totoro is perhaps the best entry point for Ghibli newcomers. A genuine phenomenon in Japan, the eponymous forest spirit is a more beloved face than Mickey Mouse could ever dream of becoming. My Neighbour Totoro is an intimate family tale set during one summer in ’50s rural Japan. It boasts astonishing attention to detail and delicate characterisation of two young sisters, Mei and Satsuki, who have moved with their father to a new house while their mother is recovering in hospital from a long-term illness. The sisters spend their days exploring the surrounding countryside, where they meet the big-hearted spirit Totoro. Like the majority of Miyazaki’s films, Totoro is more episodic than narrative, with no antagonist, helping to capture the joyful power of unfettered childhood imagination as well as paying homage to the beauty of Japan’s traditional rural living.

Kiki’s Delivery Service (Hayao Miyazaki, 1989) In this writer’s humble opinion, Miyazaki’s most underrated work, Kiki’s Delivery Service can feel a little insubstantial to fans of later Ghibli films, but for fans, its lightness of touch and episodic nature proves the film’s most charming asset. Based on the books by Japanese writer Eiko Kadono, this is Miyazaki’s first true literary adaptation, although, as with all his others since, it bears little resemblance to the original. Aimed at teenage girls, it is set in a modern world where witchcraft exists, and where young witches have to leave home at the age of 13. We follow the insecure Kiki and her sarcastic cat, Jiji. As with Totoro, there’s no bad-guy figure, no conflict; Kiki’s adventure is simply one of discovering self-confidence. Blending humor with a sensitive look at the end of childhood, Kiki’s Delivery Service is Miyazaki at his most relaxed and charming; team Disney should be making notes.

rests on its unbridled creativity and vision, Ghibli are notoriously stringent when it comes to their “no-cuts” policy on international distribution. It’s this single-mindedness coupled with a seemingly limitless imagination that has cemented Studio Ghibli’s reputation as the greatest animation house in the world.

Princess Mononoke (Hayao Miyazaki, 1997) Easily Miyazaki’s most ambitious film and in my opinion his most accomplished, Princess Mononoke is a sprawling two and a quarter hour epic set in late Muromachi period Japan. Following a young warrior mortally cursed by a diseased boar-demon, it takes us deep into Japan’s primeval forest, as its gods of nature resist humanity’s industrial progress in a long, bloody physical battle. Arguably unsuitable for Ghibli’s younger audience, it features brutal combat scenes and monstrous mutations, entwining the theme of aborted innocence with its overt environmental concerns. Princess Mononoke took more than 15 years and £14.5 million to complete the journey from its creator’s mind to the big screen. Of course, the investment was well worth it; Mononoke was the top-grossing film at the Japanese box office in 1997, earning raves from critics all over the world. Mononoke is Miyazaki’s defining statement and a testament to the beauty and power of the Ghibli vision and probably the finest example of traditional hand-drawn animation to date. Spirited Away (Hayao Miyazaki, 2001) Spirited Away is the film that cemented Studio Ghibli’s reputation in the west. After the success of Princess Mononoke, Miyazaki spent an extended period searching for his next project, finally finding inspiration in the young daughters of some family friends. Aimed at the hearts of 10-year-old girls, Spirited Away offers its intended audience a smart, strong-willed protagonist whose relatively straightforward coming-of-age journey is beset with all manner of obstacles that could only have come from the mind of Miyazaki, including fantastical creatures, magic spells, and unforgettable, dreamlike set pieces. Whilst the main character is the stubbornwilled Chihiro, the film’s enduring image is that of the spirit spectre, No-Face - one of Miyazaki’s most memorable characters in a career that has brought to life countless times. The success of Spirited Away www.asianchic.co.uk

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Travel Guide

Kölsch in Cologne

History-heaped Cologne, home to Kölsch beer and the Kölner Dom Cathedral echoes centuries of famous architecture, arts and vibrant culture from the heart of the city to its outer fringes, giving visitors and locals plenty to enjoy. Located on the Rhine River to the north of Bonn, Cologne is Germany’s fourth largest city and lies within the Rhine-Ruhr Metropolitan Area with more than ten million inhabitants. Home to more than 30 museums, hundreds of galleries, and yearlong merriments, the city is a must see on the European map. History of Cologne With a history spanning back 2000 years, Cologne’s past is what makes it the dynamic metropolis it is today. As one of the oldest German cities, Cologne’s unique atmosphere is reminiscent of its Roman roots, which is where the name originates. Founded in 50 AD, it was formerly known as, Colonia. In the Middle Ages, Cologne was the most densely populated and one of the most prosperous towns in the German-speaking region - in particular due to the pilgrims and trade benefits that the newly introduced ‘staple right’ brought. After making its mark as one of the most important trade centres in Europe, its excellent economic and political position suffered after the discovery of America, and with the introduction of new economic systems and trading channels; this continued into the 19th century. In 1881, the city walls were demolished, paving the way for exciting extensions and possibilities, attracting the world’s attention again for the first time since the Middle Ages. These developments included everything from the new ring road, to the whole new town, and with the Industrial Revolution and the incorporation of surrounding areas; Cologne was transformed into an industrial city.

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It the midst of the Second World War, 90 per cent of the inner city was ruined – and by the end, only 40,000 habitants remained in the city. In 1947, work began to revive the old town from its rubble remains – this architecture still characterises the face of Cologne today. The Rhine metropolis is now the fourth largest German city and one of the most popular travel spots in Germany and Europe overall. In the 21st century, Cologne is still a favourite location for many thanks to its central location. It is one of Western Europe’s most important traffic hubs with all high-speed trains and flights stopping here. Travellers can fly to more than 130 destinations around the world from Cologne-Bonn Airport. Accomodation If you’re thinking of a trip to Cologne, flight prices start from £89 and the city boasts over 250 hotels ranging from low-budget accommodation to stateof-the-art design hotels. Grab a luxury four star room at the Azimut Hotel from 79 Euros per night. Built in an old red brick tower, these elegantly furnished rooms offer all desirable amenities from rich breakfast buffets to relaxation areas and conference rooms. Centrally located, many famous sights such as the Kölner Dom, the old town and the Media Park are reachable within a few minutes of walking. The central station and Cologne Trade Fair are situated 4 kilometres away and conveniently accessible by public transport or taxi. If you’re looking for budget accommodation,

Cologne’s Art-Hotel offers spacious rooms and a cosy atmosphere for as little as 50 Euros per night. For any party opting for a quieter stay, this location is perfect; tucked away in a more secluded area of the city. The main railway station, the exhibition area and the eminent sights of the city centre can be reached in 15 minutes by public transport or taxi; and with the A59 motorway nearby, pit stops at nearby cities are also tempting. Food & Drink Whatever you feel like eating – the chances are that Cologne can provide it. Here you will find more than 3000 pubs, cafés and restaurants serving everything from city specials to home comforts. Live like a local and head to one of the city’s infamous brew houses for a beer and some hearty cuisine. To drink Kölsch beer is to drink pure Cologne culture; specially brewed in the heart of the city, this light ale served in its trademark 0.2 litre cylindrical glass is the poison of the locals. Brew house food specialities range from Halver Hahn, (rye rolls with Dutch cheese, butter and mustard); to Hämmche, (boiled knuckle of pork, mashed potatoes and sauerkraut), and more experimental dishes, such as Rheinscher Soorbrode, (sometimes made with horsemeat) if you’re feeling brave. Starred and crowned chefs can be found just as readily in the hotels and restaurants of Cologne, the city is bursting with eateries that cater for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner by candlelight or a social spot for a larger party, you won’t be disappointed.


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Events in Cologne Cologne Carnival Cologne has much to offer all year round, but November marks the dawn of the “fifth season of the year” as the annual Carnival kicks off. With the proclamation of the new Carnival Season, the action begins on November 11 at 11:11am and continues right the way through to February, drawing to a close on Ash Wednesday. As one of the biggest street festivals in Europe, the city makes way for mile-long parades and parties of epic proportions. The streets of Cologne are set to burst at the seams with colourful, ridiculous and revealing costumes as the air grows thick with ticker tape, glitter and flying candy. Closing times for clubs and bars are suspended for the duration of the festival, ensuring that party time is possible at any hour. If you’re looking to catch the chaos at its peak, head to Cologne in February as the carnival reaches a climax in what they call the “crazy days.” Natives are welcomed, providing they promise to start the morning with a party popper, a bottle of Kölsch and a dose of party potential.

Christmas Markets With December looming, Cologne is set to embrace the festivities in the countdown to Christmas. Every year, the city centre opens its gates on the last Monday before Advent to host its infamous Christmas Markets. Be amongst the millions of visitors who fly in from around the globe to delight at the goods on sale at the quaintly designed huts and stalls throughout the city. Get into the festive spirit and experience the arts, crafts and decorations amidst the aromas of mulled wine, hot chestnuts and baked gingerbread. From pewter pourers to wreath binders to glassblowers, there is much to see throughout the city in all its illuminated glory. Take your pick from the Cathedral Xmas Market, Angel’s Christmas Market, Harbour Christmas Market, Old Market and Market of Fairy Tales.

Sight Seeing Cologne was built on ground that is steeped in history. Take a walk through the journey of the city from the Roman Empire to modern times by setting aside some time to visit a few of the famous landmarks and museums Cologne has to offer. The twelve Romantic churches are amongst the cultural highlights, alongside the Kölner Dom Cathedral. Cologne also boasts five Baroque buildings and many churches from the late 19th and early 20th century. Take a trip to the Römisch-Germanisches Museum to experience an impressive account of Roman history along the Rhine, or visit the Old Town and stroll through the narrow cobble-stoned alleys which are reminiscent of times long ago. The Rheinauhafen with its extraordinary “crane houses” is resplendent of modern Cologne, and is just one of the city’s alluring contemporary monuments. Once the tallest skyscraper in Europe, the Hansahochhaus demands attention; with its outer beauty and multitude of department stores inside. A family favourite is Cologne Zoo with its adjacent botanical garden, boasting over 12,000 species of plant. Or if you’re after some first-hand entertainment, stop by the Ludwig Museum and see one of its 400 infamous annual shows, or hit the Media Park for a movie night at one of Germany’s most successful cinemas. Lanxess Arena is another stellar sight which draws in countless international stars, including Lady Gaga and Coldplay this year alone. With an abundance of cultural prosperity, festive glee and hearty cuisine, Cologne provides the perfect transition into those winter months. Experience a city in all its jovial glory; drunk and dressed up in parts, grand and momentous in others; and return home with a new found love for German refinement, or at least a wohlverdient kater, (well-earned hangover).

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Talk through all your options calmly and in confidence

If you’ve had an abortion and are feeling confused afterwards we can help

Ring for an appointment or chat

0808 802 5433 Text ‘LIFECARE’ followed by your message to

88020 www.lifecharity.org.uk

Alternatively drop in every Thursday 11am - 2pm

Life Care Centre, 22 Norfolk Row, Sheffield, S1 2PA (off Fargate)

Scan here to view our website LIFE does not refer for abortion

Registered National Charity No.1128355 in England and Wales and No.SCO41329 in Scotland






Asian - CHIC -

We’ve got it covered! Being modest, doesn’t have to be a bore, be fun with your style! Our outfit is an expression of ourselves. So being a ‘hijaabi’ shouldn’t hinder your approach to fashion, rather it should enhance your ability to experiment and be more daring with this extra fashion piece.

DORETHY PERKINS Brown leopard print maxi skirt Black www.dorethyperkins.com £25

ZARA Jacquard-Printed Scarf with Frayed Hem www.zara.com £25.99

ZARA Military Jacket Navy www.zara.com £69.99

DOROTHY PERKINS Brown Leopard Print Maxi Skirt Leopard www.dorethyperkins.com £69.99

NEXT Suede Mid Ankle Boots Black www.next.co.uk £65

DOROTHY PERKINS Fiorelli Colourblock Shopper, Blue www.dorethyperkins.com £65

ALDO Padty Bracelet Gold/ Midnight Black www.aldoshoes.co.uk £12

Cover it! Style it! Chic it! Don’t shy away from styling and experimenting with your hijaab. Try an embroidered cap - fabulous with a bold plain pashmina scarf. However, try not to clash this with a floral or patterned scarf. You don’t want to be too busy as it will draw attention away from the cap. Instead of a plain pin add a bit of sophistication and bling to your hijaab by adding a brooch to it. There are a number of beautiful, striking, delicate brooches available, that add a touch of class or a hint of glam! There are a lot of extravagant gorgeous headpieces that can be used to dress your hijaab up for a wedding or occasion. However it doesn’t have to be over the top, you could add a simple headband to your hijaab that looks chic and keeps it in place! Try to manipulate your scarf to add pleats and volume. There are different styles you can create to make sure your hijaab stands out from the rest. www.hijabistyle.blogspot.co.uk

www.biah.co.uk

HIJAAB


Asian

Suit

- CHIC -

YOURSELF The modern Asian man takes pride in the way he looks. A jacket can make or break a suit. Black can be slimming but it can also be safe and boring. Your clothes should reflect your personality, and taking an occasional risk with your wardrobe puts across an impression of confidence and individuality. Try adding a dash of colour to your jacket, but stick to darker, more autumnal hues like browns, tan or khaki, else you run the risk of it all getting a bit ‘Miami Vice’.

Brown Fleck Velvet Collar Skinny Blazer – Topman £85

Blue Mountain Blazer – Abercrombie & Fitch £290

Fosberry Blazer – Jack Wills £229

Amares Tailored Jacket - Hugo Boss £349

Khaki Tweed Check Jacket – Next £110

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UP TO

OFF ON SE LEC T E D IT E M S SATURDAY 17TH NOVEMBER SUNDAY 16TH DECEMBER 2012

Maysa, 485-487 Leeds Road, Bradford, BD3 9ND . Tel: 07902 708 755 . Email: mymaysaonline@gmail.com

www.mymaysa.com

C Join us on Facebook : mymaysaboutique



The contemporary Asian wedding a fu s io n o f cu ltur e s, tr adi ti ons and s tyle With Enchant Weddings

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Asian - CHIC -

Marriage or ‘shaadi’ is a key milestone in Brit-Asian life and hugely significant in South Asian culture. A UK National Statistics report showed that the highest proportion of married couples under pension age were in Asian households, demonstrating the importance of marriage for the Indian and Pakistani communities. However, a shift in lifestyle choices of British Asians has led to marriages happening later in life, with education, careers and travel taking priority over marriage. This implies that more and more couples are in a better position to take control of the decisions as well as paying for the celebrations, giving them a greater choice. This can test family relations as a wedding is considered an important event for the parents and extended family as well as the bride and groom. The extended family may wish to be actively involved in all aspects of the planning and organisation of the wedding, and this is something that will need to be handled with tact and diplomacy. Many couples use the services of a wedding planner to arrange the venue, catering, wedding outfits, photography, entertainment and also to give advice about the different cultural aspects of a Muslim, Sikh and Hindu wedding. Samina Saddique, Sapna Pandya and Rae Barratt recognised the growing demand for wedding planners that could relate to clients from Asian as well as western backgrounds, and set up Enchant Wedding, a UK based company which offers full planning and management services for traditional Asian, western and fusion weddings. Samina explains, “Using a wedding planner to manage the more important and specialised tasks can take the pressure off the bride, and allow friends and family to relax and have fun without having to worry about the organisation or the day itself. A good Asian wedding planner should have a thorough understanding of the different religious and cultural requirements of the couple as well as keeping abreast of the latest trends in contemporary Asian and western weddings”. The traditional British Asian wedding is a typically large, stylish and glamorous affair, often including several separate ceremonies and events spread over a week or more. The cost of an Asian wedding in the UK is frequently well over £30,000 compared to an average of £14,441 for a western wedding. Samina says, “Many couples love the traditional ethos of having a large wedding, with guests upwards of 300, but at the same time wish to retain an intimate feel. The aim is to strike a balance between having

a grand and interesting wedding as well as making sure the couple have time to speak to all of their guests”. Increasingly, western features are incorporated into the contemporary Asian wedding, such as speeches, the first dance and the traditional wedding cake. Particularly for those couples with different cultural backgrounds, creating a fusion wedding, which celebrates the best aspects of both cultures but which still incorporates the ideals, culture and rituals of a traditional Asian wedding represents the biggest challenge. Asian weddings have customs and traditions that date back to hundreds of years ago but their appeal has never lost its touch. These are meaningful gestures and rituals that despite the influences and infusion of western culture in the ceremony and reception, most couples never fail to incorporate old customs as homage and as tribute to the culture and heritage. Wedding traditions vary across religion, caste, ethnicity, language and region. Wedding ceremonies from western India have their own regional traditions and customs that add a unique flavour and colour to each ceremony. Hindu marriages elevate a woman to become her husband’s ‘adharma-charini’, and she is always seen as an equal partner to him in life’s pursuits. One such ritual is ‘Havan’. A sacred fire called the ‘Havan’ is lit and mantras are chanted inviting the various Deities to be present to witness the wedding. Agni the Fire God, being a symbol of light, energy and purity is regarded as the chief witness to the wedding. If you are hoping to incorporate this ceremony into your wedding, always check with the venue first that this will be possible! Samina says, “Asian wedding traditions have a long history and religious significance, which can sometimes make them a little daunting for a couple. A wedding planner will help explain the meaning behind a wedding ritual and what is expected of the couple. Couples looking to throw the ultimate East meets West wedding may choose to hold a traditional eastern ceremony in the morning and a

western style reception at night. Incorporating parts of one culture into the day for example, having a western ceremony but tying in the eastern theme by attire, décor, catering, cake and make-up. Mehndi (or henna as it is more commonly known) has also become increasingly popular for western brides”. For traditional Indian weddings, brides decorate themselves with gold and diamond jewellery, apply mehndi to colour their hands and feet and undergo various bridal rituals, including wearing bridal lehenga or saree. As more western brides are choosing Indian bridal attire for their big day, an increasing number of Asian brides are also now choosing a traditional white wedding dress over the saree. Nowadays, there is a much greater choice of attire for the bridegroom too, from the traditional longer length sherwani to the shorter length and more modern jodhpuris. Sherwani’s can be designed to look traditional or contemporary, incorporating a fusion of eastern style with a touch of the west. And finally, the most enjoyable elements of a wedding are of course the food and the entertainment but catering for everyone’s tastes at a fusion wedding can prove tricky. Choose caterers that can offer a good variety of vegetarian and halal meat options for guests if required. Whether you decide to hire a live band or a DJ (or both), opting for a mix of pop, r&b and indie, with a sprinkling of Bollywood will ensure that everyone hits the dance floor! For more information and advice on planning your Asian, fusion or western wedding, please contact the team at Enchant Wedding on 01543 571232 or email enchant@srsinspireltd.co.uk. All images were kindly provided by Upendo Images, www.upendoimages.com. For more information please contact Bhavna Pandya-Barratt on 07873 877824 or email info@upendoimages.com. Tel: 07901 622347 Email: enchant@srsinspireltd.co.uk Web: www.srsinspireltd.co.uk Twitter: @EnchantWeddings Facebook: EnchantWeddings www.asianchic.co.uk

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MI Jewellers

Address: 75-77 White Abbey Road, BD 8DR

What is the purpose of a piece of jewellery? Most would say that it is simply something beautiful. However, for the Asian community, jewellery holds so much more value. Often pieces of jewellery are passed down through the generations in an Asian family, holding value as much for their status as for their ornate finery. These pieces of jewellery act as a show of affection, value and ultimately as an investment in the future, as they can often be traded in for cash during times of need. As such, it means that buying jewellery is a decision not to be taken lightly. If you want a jewellers who are knowledgeable, have a reputation for excellence and the smarts to handle your jewellery needs, then M.I Jewellers are there for you. M.I. Jewellers, which sits on 76-77 White Abbey Road, Bradford, is a family run jewellers, whose owners have a history in the business, with the past four generations of the family calling jewellery their trade of choice, even naming their shop after their father. Experts in their trade, they import their pieces straight from Dubai. Consequently, this has major advantages for the customer. It cuts out the middle man, cutting down the price and allowing for the sale of exquisite, ornate items at more affordable prices. It also allows for M.I Jewellers to import the latest styles and fashions. Let them do the trend spotting for you and provide you with pieces that scream class and sophistication. If that isn’t enough M.I Jewellers don’t just sell gold, they buy it. Financially things have been rocky over the last couple of years, however with prices higher than ever, gold is still as solid an investment as it has ever been. Simply take your piece in, get it weighed and you will receive the cash equivalent - they don’t scrimp on value like a pawn broker would, you get your money’s worth. They even go one step further, at M. I Jewellers you can take in your old pieces and do a part exchange, trading up for stylish, relevant pieces. The jewellery experts specialise in wedding jewellery and made to order pieces. Their collection of wedding jewellery is extensive and beautiful, selling a variety of both small and large jewellery set which caters to your pocket book as well as your need to make your special day the best it possibly can be. As for the made to order items, simply bring in a picture of the design you require and M.I. Jewellers will handle the rest. They are especially skilled at making made to order bangles, which are stunningly beautiful, as well as easy on your bank balance. So there you have it, jewellery is inherently valuable and must be treated with care and attention. If you want experience, value and skill in the handling of your most valuable items then M.I. Jewellers are the people to call on. They have the know how, they’ve built up a large client base through years of skill, their importation of pieces straight from Dubai allows for a fantastic amount of variety and ultimately – they do it all at a price that’ll leave you smiling.

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Inside Bradford Plaza

Bradford Plaza

Address: Leeds Old Road, Thornbury, BD3 8JW

Beautiful assortment of ladies garments

Your shopping list is about a foot long and you don’t have the time to go out of your way to a thousand shops all over the city to get everything you need. Modern life is fast paced, and often doesn’t allow you the time to tick off every box on your to do list, consequently leaving countless things undone. That’s why we have shopping centres, all the convenience and none of the hassle. All you have to do is walk a few seconds from shop to shop and the retail world is in your grasp. If you’re looking for a shopping centre which guarantees quality and convenience, then look no further than the Bradford Plaza. Situated on Leeds Old Road in Thornbury, the Bradford Plaza, which opened this September and sits right next to Morrison’s, is in the heart of Bradford’s thriving Asian community. This is a huge advantage because the Bradford Plaza hosts a whole plethora of Asian orientated shops with the best in Asian jewellery, clothing and shoes Bradford has to offer. On top of that, it has a whole range of shops to cater to just about every need you have, from candles to arts and crafts; if there’s something you need, the Bradford Plaza will have it for you! There’s even a café with delicious snacks and treats ready for you, when you need to take a little break from the hustle and bustle of shopping. Conveniently there’s also a prayer room located on the buildings second floor, which welcomes all.

Custom costume and premium jewellery

Hand crafted cakes by Saffron Pastries

On top of this the Bradford Plaza doesn’t just cater to customers, but to small business owners too. Going from market trader to shop owner can be a tough transition, and the Bradford Plaza, which rents out spaces for an initial six month period, can provide the perfect stepping stone in achieving your dream. If you want to hire a double unit for a six month period you get a 16ft x 6ft space at £80 a week, along with a £350 non-refundable deposit. It’s a great way to feel out the market, get some experience, build your customer base and brand loyalty, as well as test the waters to see if your company is ready for expansion. There you have it. The Bradford Plaza is convenient, modern and committed to providing you with the highest quality at reasonable prices! Cafe Plaza serving fine halal cuisine and drinks

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Paul Chowdhry Critically acclaimed and cited as the UK’s No.1 Asian comedian with a loyal fan-base and approximately 3 million YouTube hits, Paul Chowdhry has distinguished himself as one of the most talented and popular comedians to have recently emerged into the mainstream. Inspired by legends such as the late Richard Prior, George Carlin and Sam Kinison he is one of the few comics with the ability and diversity to effortlessly straddle the urban and mainstream stand-up circuits as an international headline act. 2012 has been a momentous year for Paul; after landing a coveted regular slot on Channel 4’s late night topical comedy show Stand Up For the Week, last month saw his hugely successful UK tour, ‘What’s Happening White People?’ draw to a close. 2012 continues to be his year with the release of his debut stand-up DVD, ‘Paul Chowdhry – What’s Happening White People?’ late last month. Recorded during his autumn 2012 tour at London’s Hammersmith Apollo, viewers can expect a topical, edgy, and unique highly charged volley of dry observational humour tapping into modern day Britain. We caught up with Paul when the tour stopped off at City Hall last month, to find out more about his comedy, his DVD and plans for the future. We are good to you, aren’t we? What can viewers expect from ‘What’s Happening White People?’? I’ve been touring around the UK for the past few months, and the tour got picked up by Universal Pictures who have kindly released it on DVD – my first ever DVD. That makes me one of the first British-Asians to have a stand-up DVD. It’s my take on multicultural Britain and growing up in this country over the past few decades; how perceptions of race have changed. You recorded the show back in September at the Hammersmith Apollo, what kind of reception did you get? It depends what mobile you’ve got . . . The reception was really good; I had three thousand people at the Hammersmith Apollo and the week after I recorded Live at the Apollo for BBC One. How was that experience? Well, I’d recorded my DVD the week before which was a two and a half hour show in front of three thousand people and then I’m having to go to a ten minute TV set, which was a difficult transaction to make. So really the more amazing experience was the DVD, Live at the Apollo just went by so quick. How did it compare to your regular slots on Stand Up for the Week? Stand Up for the Week is much more topical. Live at the Apollo is prime time BBC One, so you can’t swear or do anything too risqué in that kind of show. Stand Up for the Week was really demanding because you’re turning over a brand new comedy set every week based on current events, so you have to keep up with the news and constantly be writing new material. There’s no show like that in the world I don’t think. Although it’s a late night show on Channel 4, it’s probably one of the most difficult to make; it’s not a bunch of comedians on a panel bouncing off one another. Take for example the Jimmy Saville scandal, you’d have to write material on that, or on the Obama administration, or both just days after they’d happened. I’ve done sixteen appearances on Stand Up for the Week, and off the back of that “what’s happening white people?” kind of became my catchphrase and it took off from there. Tell us a bit more about the show itself ‘What’s Happening White People?’ It’s my take on modern day multicultural Britain; how perceptions have changed and how racism has changed over the years. I talk about my unique experiences growing up as an Asian in this country,

a lot of personal stories about my life in London, and the lives of different ethnicities and cultures in British society. How has your Asian heritage informed your comedy? People say, “you talk about being Asian”, that’s because I’m Asian. If I was an Irish comedian talking about being Irish people would make a thing of it. People say that Asian comedians always talk about being Asian but the thing is there aren’t many Asian comedians working the UK circuit. I mean, I’m not doing Goodness Gracious Me material, my experience is my own, as a British-Asian, raised in London. The British comedy circuit is renowned as one of the best places for comics to hone their act. Have you – as an Asian comic – experienced any stigmatism or hostility, working those circuits? I’ve been doing stand-up since late 1998, it’s a very tough industry, there’s a lot more rejection than there is acceptance. You’re writing and performing you own material and being judged on your material, your look, your performance, your persona, your delivery. It’s not a profession that naturally appeals to a lot of people. There weren’t any Asian comics, in the country in ’98, there was only Goodness Gracious Me and that wasn’t stand up. When I was building up an audience playing the clubs, there were certain instances – I’d be backstage with the other comics and someone might say racist words to you, but they’d laugh it off as being “ironic”. Well, I didn’t see the irony in that, because I’m the only Asian guy in the room and you’re using those words like that around me. So you get that, and occasionally you get jealousy around certain comics. I was doing the clubs for years, booking venues up and down the country, and eventually I started selling them out and building up a following which allowed me to break away. Eventually I sold out two nights at the Leicester Square Theatre in London, with no PR, no publicity, just on the back of my own hard work and YouTube clips, it’s a hard theatre to sell out without any TV appearances. Of course there are some people in the industry who see me as different and who resent things like that, but you’ve just got to keep at it and when the audience is so supportive, you know the hard work is paying off. Do you think that there’s a danger in the current comedy climate, of reverting to old ways of dealing with taboo subjects in a bad way and passing it off as ironic? Well exactly, it’s not obvious irony anymore and so

it’s come full circle in a way. In America, racism is so blatant that the whole thing has lost any sense of irony, and you’re left thinking, “how can you get away with that?” Comedy is such a big industry now, fifteen years ago, you wouldn’t have comedians playing arenas, but now it’s happening all the time. I don’t think you see that kind of comics playing arenas fortunately. I’m not going to name any comics, but there are certain people getting onto TV, I’d be interested to hear a black comic or Asian comic doing similar type of material. What I do isn’t just for Asians, or black people or white people, it’s for everyone. I’m not here to try and push any buttons, just be funny. It’ll always be the case though, that one person’s offence is another man’s comedy. Tell us about your acting work. I recorded an American film, Swinging with the Finkles, with Martin Freeman, Mandy Moore and Angus Deayton, that aired on Sky last month. I do the odd part whenever it comes up and it’s decent. But it’s the stand-up that I’m most passionate about and where I focus my attentions, anything else is just a bonus. Hopefully the DVD will give people a better idea of who I am. Who are your comedy heroes? There were a few British comedians during the Seventies and Eighties; Frankie Howerd, Kenny Everett, Morecambe and Wise, and a lot of the sitcoms, It Ain’t Half Hot Mum and Love Thy Neighbour. Mostly, growing up though, it was American comedians – Alternative Comedy didn’t come here until the Eighties, but they’d been doing it over there since the sixties – people like George Carlin and Bill Cosby, Richard Pryor, Sam Kinison. In the Eighties, it kicked off over here with people like Ben Elton and Rik Mayall, but a lot of that came from the Americans. Finally, tell us a bit more about the DVD. Well, it’s out now. There’s some great extras on there, including my first ever appearance on Stand Up for the Week. There are a few surprises in there that I won’t spoil. There’s also a commentary that I did with Tim Westwood, which is interesting – basically we were sat in a room, he hadn’t watched the DVD, it’s like you’re in a room watching the show with Tim Westwood, which can be uncomfortable in places, a few arguments kick off, he’s been stealing a few of my jokes.

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Sanober Hussain What does it take to make a model? Not just good lucks but intelligence, courage and maybe even a splash of luck. These days modelling competitions are a far cry from what they were in the 50s and 60s and require some actual brains. Sheffield Psychology student Sanober Hussain took on the challenge beginning with the Miss Sheffield competition, which she won in style, showing that brains and beauty make the ideal combination. She has since gone on to international success, acting not only as a contestant, but as a judge in countless beauty competitions. This month Asian Chic magazine sat Sanober down for a chat, talking about anything and everything from the international beauty circuit, via tireless charity work, to just what it takes to become a top model. What inspired you to take up competitive modelling? I’m a very competitive person and I wanted to set myself a challenge. It also gave me a platform to be a role model for others and speak out. Originally I thought I’d try Miss Sheffield, where I was competing against professional models and dancers, I won and it was amazing. I really enjoyed the process and learned that it’s all about how you hold yourself and perfecting your interview skills. Overall the experience was really positive. How did it feel to reach the semi finals of the Miss England competition? It was a learning curve that inspired me to want to do more competitions, as well as a fantastic experience! Can you tell us about your experience as an Asian woman entering the Miss England Competition? I wouldn’t say it was harder, I would say it was educational, as it proved a point to society that regardless of culture or race you can still compete successfully. It proved a point that regardless of ethnicity, whatever you set your mind to, you can achieve. It showed that as a British Asian you can have just as much success as anybody else. What did it mean to you to win the Miss Pakistan World competition? It was amazing, I can’t really describe how it felt. Not many women get the opportunity to do this; I got the chance to compete against talented and educated Pakistani women from all over the world and to win an international title like that felt incredible. It has given me a great platform and opened many doors for me. Looking back on it today, how would you say you’ve grown as you’ve taken part in more high profile competitions? Funnily enough as a person, in terms of my personality, I’ve not changed at all, I’m very humble. I had a friend I’ve not seen in three years who I met up with recently and they said, ‘I thought you might have changed, but you haven’t changed at all!’ I’ve changed in that the industry has changed - fifty years ago it might have been about being a Barbie doll, relying only on looks to win these sorts

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of competitions, now you have to have the mental standards as well as the physical standards to win the competition. It’s more about how intelligent you are and being a well-rounded person, which is a part of the whole process. Which of your titles are you most proud of and why? I’m going to say each one, because they are each very unique and different - without each one I wouldn’t be where I am now. Miss Sheffield was a stepping stone, it gave me the inspiration to keep on going, I don’t know what I would do if I hadn’t won it, it may have knocked my confidence as it was definitely the first can of fuel in my engine. Competing as a Pakistani woman in Miss England gave me even more inspiration. The Miss Earth competition saw women competing from over eighty five countries. I met one girl from a particular country who was confused, asking me questions about Pakistan and what is portrayed through the media. Through meeting me it gave her an insight about Pakistan’s beautiful history, culture and fashion, it opened her eyes to the beauty of Pakistan. Essentially, I won 1 of 10 special Miss Earth awards, the Miss Earth Friendship award. Consequently. the whole experience was amazing because now I have a friend in nearly every country in the world. Considering that you are a Psychology graduate as well as a model, would you say that getting an education is vital? For me personally education is important, it’s good to mentally stimulate your mind - not necessarily academically, more in the sense of learning, it’s good to have knowledge of the world. Whatever you specialise in, it could be medicine, art, dance, music, etc., it’s good to have a passion. Tell us about some of your other modelling projects? I have modelled in Pakistan London fashion week as a catwalk model. I have also been on a recent trip to LA where I was invited to do some photo shoots and some charity work which was amazing. I was also in London recently where I was asked to give the fashion award at the Pakistan Achievment Awards for UK and Europe 2012 which felt really good.

Tell us more about the charity work you do? I always try to give something back to society. I especially support charities regarding mental illness, I studied it in Psychology so as a consequence I’m very passionate about working for mental illness charities. Furthermore, I support charities that focus on abuse on women and children especially, because after all they are our future. Recently you’ve been on the other side of the fence as a competition judge, how was that? I judged the new Miss Sheffield competition and the South Yorkshire talent competition. Additionally, I have judged the Mr and Miss Pakistan World competition and have been asked to judge the Miss India Canada 2013 competition too! I also judged the Miss England global finals competition in London, which was really fun, the winner I helped choose went on to win the international competition! I had a small part in helping her on her way which I guess shows I know how to judge a winner! Was it hard to be a judge, when you’ve been in their position before? No, if anything it makes it easier! I always judge a competition fairly as I am a fair person. I’ve been there which makes it easier to be honest and to step into their shoes - you’re a better judge for it. I also stick to the marking criteria which always helps! For someone entering their first competition, what advice would you give them? Entering your first competition, you should prepare mentally and physically; it’s a roller coaster of emotions. Make sure you research regarding the competition, know how to answer the questions and make sure you’re in shape. Have confidence and believe in yourself. People think it’s a pretty easy thing to do, to just walk on stage but you really need to put the work in. Ultimately, have the confidence, believe in yourself and enjoy it. Can you give us a little hint about any future projects? All I can say is I’m involved in a project regarding fashion and TV work but can’t say much more. Watch this space!


14 Shearbridge Road . Bradford . BD7 1NP www.janan.co.uk . Tel:01274 949 700 Janan can offer you an array of exclusive designer branding such as Needlez, Gul Ahmed, Junaid Jamshed, Maria B, Poze, Unze, Setrms, Aab and more.


Asian - CHIC -

To find the best international Asian fashion designers, you don’t need to fly halfway across the world. You just need to get to Bradford. As one of the most renowned couture fashion boutiques around, Janan is proud to showcase, nothing but the best. Introducing exclusive designs under one roof, you will find the likes of Needlez by Shalimar, Gul Ahmed, Junaid Jamshed, Asim Jofa, Sana Safinaz, Poze, Unze, Setrms, Maria B, Khuda Baksh, and Kashish Banshee displaying their latest collections. With a reputation so strong that they even have minimum requirements of the designers they stock, Janan are going from strength to strength, and every one of their carefully selected couturists supply an extensive range of unique Asian fashion including formal, casual, partywear, Arabian fashion, kidswear, footwear, menswear, bridal and fusionwear. To even make the cut these collections have to be fresh and innovative, ultimately meeting Janan’s vision of what Asian fashion can aspire to. Janan is the ultimate Asian Couture paradise with two floors packed to the brim with the absolute best clothes with an infinite number of garments in every cut imaginable. Unique and versatile, these outfits in every shape and design possible. The collections are as comfortable as they are wearable and manage to find that mid way point between traditional patterns and new, modern style with fabulous materials and cuts. Janan especially focuses on bridal wear, as they realise that a bride wishes to look absolutely perfect for such an important event. Janan in accordance with this don’t just offer fabulous wedding attire but a bespoke bride and groom service with an exclusive menswear department, ranging from stunning sherwanis with modern cuts and embellishments to complementing the right footwear. Janan is the place to be if you want originality, fusion and style and you won’t be disappointed once you step through those doors!


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i n f o @ j a n a n . c o. u k . w w w. j a n a n . c o. u k . 1 4 S h e a r b r i d g e R o a d , B D 7 1 N P C i t y o f B r a d f o r d www.asianchic.co.uk


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Local Businesses Follow Your Dream

Address: The Forum, 127-129 Devonshire St, S3 7SB . Phone: 07851800848 . Web: www.fydtattoo.com

There’s a certain romanticism to the idea of getting a tattoo. Oddly whenever I think about it I think of Marlon Brando and James Dean as the ultimate 50s bad boys, moody and revolutionary, snaring the hearts of millions. In reality getting a tattoo is a delicate balance that has to be straddled carefully. You have to find a place who know what they’re doing, or you risk serious health repercussions. If you want a place who know what they’re doing then go to Follow Your Dreams Tattoo Parlour. Situated conveniently in the Forum in the heart of metropolitan Sheffield, Follow Your Dreams Tattoo parlour is a purely custom made tattoo parlour run by talented tattooist Tacho Franch, who has been practising since 2001 and left his native Argentina to broaden his horizons and tattoo knowledge with a cultural trip around Europe. The team includes recent editions Caz, who is noted for talent with all things cute and funky and Rich, who’s fantastic with adapting walk-in tattoo ideas into ingenious works of Body Art. There are a fantastic range of styles available to those wishing to visit the parlour with a particular focus on Japanese, black and grey and old school tattoo styles. They also offer a line of intricately detailed paintings for you to choose from. To find out more, get opening times or check out prices visit www.fydtattoo.com

Savannah’s

Address: 88 West Street . Sheffield . S1

The opening of a new bar is always a reason to celebrate. As far as we at Chic Lifestyle magazine are concerned, this city can never have too many drinking holes for us to go quench our thirst in on a Friday night. That’s why we welcome new high class, ultra chic, modern bar, Savannah’s to the Sheffield bar scene! Located smack bang in the middle of Fargate, between Watson’s walk and High Court, Savannah’s is everything an inner city bar should be, sleek and modern with wacky colours, blaring lights and banging tunes coming together to provide its customers with the perfect remedy to the week day blues. The drinks menu is classy, yet affordable, the music embraces the freshest trends whilst also staying true to classic chart tunes and the atmosphere is electric, indeed it’s so charged you need to be careful of the static feedback! Savannah’s has only been open a short time, but has already proved to be a massive success and a hit with the bar hoppers of the Steel City. Friday 16th November saw Savannah’s massive launch party as they officially opened up to the public. The night proved to be a major hit and the bar has already proved their pulling power by getting Lauren Pope, star of reality TV phenomenon ‘The Only Way is Essex’. The star was hired to perform a DJ set at the bar, that had everyone up on their feet raving to the sound of the beat. Along with massive drinks deals the night couldn’t have been more of a success, and it looks like Savannah’s is going to be the success story you need to check out! Search for Savannah’s Sheffield on Facebook

The Painted Teapot

Address: 2 High Street . Dronfield . S18 1PY Phone: 01246 418 447 Web: www.thepaintedteapot.co.uk

When the work piles up and things get stressful what do you do to get away from it all? Most people like a way to relax and calm down, perhaps express themselves via some artistic outlet to get away from the drudgery of corporate life - live a little. This month we’ve got the perfect place for you to go if you need to express yourself and that’s The Painted Teapot in Dronfield, just outside of Sheffield. Located smack bang in the centre of Dronfield, at Number 2 on the High Street, The Painted Teapot is a pottery and crafts studio where you can go to bring out your inner Monet and realise your true artistic potential. The range of pottery to paint on offer is truly vast, with anything from an egg cup to a full dinner service on hand for you to customise in any which way you wish, in other words complete creative freedom! The Painted Teapot is also the perfect place to go and take your children if you want a day of fun, that drags them away from their computer games and allows them to learn and have fun at the same time. There is also a great range of products especially for kids to paint from toy dinosaurs and footballs to toy unicorns and fairies. They also open for parties and events; it really is a place for all the family! For more information, opening times and prices please visit www.thepaintedteapot.co.uk

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Graze Inn

Address: 315-319 Ecclesall Road . Sheffield . S11 8NX Phone: 0114 267 6666 Web: www.grazeinn.co.uk

Is it truly possible to mix modern chic, country farmhouse charm with a pinch of rustic zeal. Most would say it’s impossible, in our modern society, chic establishments seem to belong to the city and farmhouse café’s that ooze rustic country charm. However, there is a place that manages to skilfully combine the two elements to become something exciting, something new. That place is the Graze Inn. Located smack bang in the middle of the city, on 315-319 Ecclesall Road, The Graze Inn is elegance and charm defined, with nouveau riche style crystal chandeliers and tasselled hanging light fixtures sitting comfortably side by side with rustic style wooden tables and chairs as well as dusty, decorative glass jams. The food is unique and simply scrumptious with particular highlights being their British Flats (their take on the traditional pizza), and what themselves describe as the ‘star of the show’, their rotisserie chickens, which are lovingly fawned over by top chefs to provide you with unique hearty chicken based dishes. The Graze Inn’s head chef, Mark James, has worked with multi award winning chef Richard Smith and Michelin Starred group chef Les Rennie to create in the websites own words ‘an innovative, fresh menu, with a strong focus on sharing’. Along with the fact that The Graze Inn use locally sourced, market produce and you get food that is bound to leave a fantastic impression. You’ll be begging for more and the Graze Inn will only be too happy to provide! For more information, opening times and prices please visit www.grazeinn.co.uk



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Here at Asian Chic, each month we strive to highlight the most creative, influential and entrepreneurial individuals within Yorkshire’s Asian community; we feel that this month’s issue is our most inspired to date. This issue, we have not one, but two sterling interviews for our wonderful Asian Chic readers. British Asian comedian, Paul Chowdhry has had a remarkable 2012; from his show-stealing appearances on Stand Up for the Week to an acting role alongside Martin Freeman in Swinging with the Finkles. Paul tops off his year with the release of his first DVD, the provocatively titled ‘What’s Happening White People?’, we chat to the funny man to find out more. As if that weren’t enough Miss Pakistan World 2011, Sanober Hussain also dropped by to give us an insight on the world of international modelling and beauty pageantry.

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There exists a dangerous misconception in the west, that ‘arranged marriage’ equates to ‘forced marriage’, we take a look at the very serious problems of forced marriages and how they affect the Asian community in our feature, I Do or I Have To.

MANAGING DIRECTOR Hussain Shafique

I was also granted the pleasure this month of writing about some of my favourite films in a look at the biggest animation studio in the east and probably the best in the world, Studio Ghibli, whose consistently sublime output has brought me countless pleasure. You can find a brief history of the studio along with a selection of their best work in our Far Eastern Promises feature.

DESIGN DIRECTOR Shane Gilmartin

EDITOR Kieran Smith Kieran@chicpromotions.co.uk

WEB DESIGNER Francesca Cirillo JUNIOR DESIGNER Scott Wheeler

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ADVERTISING MANAGER Melanie Jackson Melanie@chicpromotions.co.uk

Enchant Wedding are a fledging local wedding planning business, who offer a great, affordable service. The Enchant team have offered a guest editorial for this issue looking at the current trend of fusion weddings, which borrow aspects from a variety of cultures and traditions to create the perfect ceremony. Of course we have all our regular features, including a glance in at some of Yorkshire’s most promising up-andcoming-businesses. Our itchy-footed traveller pays a visit to Germany’s cultural capital, Cologne, while resident rev-head Tim Barnes-Clay talks us through the new Range Rover Evoque – what more could you ask for?

Asian Chic Magazine 25 Leigh Street, Sheffield, S9 2PR General Enquiries/advertising Tel: 0114 281 07 07 Email: info@chicpromotions.co.uk www.asianchic.co.uk

ACCOUNTS Dawn Goodwin CONTRIBUTORS Joe Davies Rebecca Needham Tim Barnes-Clay Romana Shah Rachel Biggins

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recycle when you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

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20 LOCAL BUSINESSES

We take a look at three of Yorkshire’s most exciting entrepreneurial endeavours; The Painted Teapot, Graze Inn and Savannah’s.

SANOBER HUSSAIN

Since winning Miss Sheffield in 2011, Sanober has gone on to gain fame as an international model and beauty queen. We caught up with Miss Pakistan World herself to find out what it takes to cut it on the beauty circuit.

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TRAVEL

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FAR EASTERN PROMISES

PAUL CHOWDHRY

Since emerging as the star of Stand Up for the Week, 2012 has been a whirlwind success for co median Paul Chowdhry – we chat with Paul about his latest stand-up DVD, ‘What’s Happening White People

ENCHANT WEDDING

Enchant Wedding planers work tirelessly to give couples their perfect day – here they explore the current trend of fusion weddings, which bor row from all cultures to create a beautiful, unforget table ceremony.

FASHION

The Chic fashionista gives us her tips on looking our best this winter.

This month, we pay a visit to the Rhineland’s cultural capital and Germany’s fourth largest city, Cologne.

Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli, is probably the best in the world. We explore the his story of the studio and look at some of their very best work.

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MOTORING

Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli, is probably the best in the world. We explore the his story of the studio and look at some of their very best work.

SPECIAL THANKS Sanober Hussain Paul Chowdhry Aimee Reilly Enchant Wedding 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.





ISSUE 10

Local Businesses | Interviews | Health | Fashion | Motoring | Travel


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