Style on Sunday - Christmas/December 2018

ISSUE 41 • DECEMBER 2018

ON SUNDAY

Sparkling on stage and screen

Cooking with the Stars Christmas recipes from celebrity chefs

What They’ll Wear

Fashion choices from the most stylish

1O

YEARS OF STYLE

We’re one decade old!

16 STYLE CONTENTS

contents

ISSU E 41 • DECE MBER 2018

ON SUNDAY

Sparkling on sta ge and screen

Cooking with the Stars

Christmas recipe s from celebrity che fs

1O

What They’ll Wear Fas

hion choices from the most stylish

33 Style Interview

Style Living

21 Sparkling on Stage and Screen International actress Marama Corlett shares her recent highlights and plans for 2019.

33 Cooking with the Stars at Christmas Three of Malta’s bestknown cooks share their favourite festive recipe.

30 10 Fabulous Years of Style We look back on our journey.

53

63 Style Checklist The news you simply must know.

45 Style Fashion 45 Alter Egos From casual to formal.

53 What They’ll Wear Stylish people on what they’ll wear come Christmas.

PUBLISHERS Content House Group Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel BKR3000 T: 2132 0713 info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt

YEARS OF STYLE

We’re one decade old!

Marama wears: Uno de 50 Another Round bracelet, ¤85, and Uno de 50 On Tip Toes earrings, ¤85, available from Uno de 50, Sliema Photography: Matthew B Spiteri Styling: Sarah Micallef Make-up: Danilo Monforte for Roseberry Hair: Nev Hair Salon, Naxxar Nails: Daphne’s Nails & Beauty Clothing: Lulù Boutique Jewellery: Uno De 50, Sliema Shot on location at The Snop House, Senglea

Style Beauty

91 Christmas Comforts Hearty food for cold winter months.

67 Shine Bright Shine with confidence this festive season!

97 Papped! In Style Style sees and is seen!

Style Home

91

83 Winter Update Three top designers choose their key seasonal trends.

Editor Jo Caruana editor@styleonsunday.com VISUAL EDITOR Sarah Micallef LAYOUT DESIGN Ramon Micallef ram@box-design.net Photography Alan Carville, Tonio Lombardi, Bernard Polidano, Matthew B Spiteri Contributors Chris Attard, Iggy Fenech, Chris Galea, Claire Giordimaina, Marie-Claire Grima, Stefan Hogan, Mark McBride, Sarah Micallef, Danilo Monforte, Neville Roman Zammit Advertising Content House Ltd Advertising SALES MANAGER Diane Scerri Advertising SALES coordinator Elena Dimech Printing Progress Press Ltd Distribution Style on Sunday is distributed for free with The Sunday Times.

Style on Sunday is a quarterly high-end magazine which epitomises quality lifestyle and refined living. This issue covers the period December 2018 – March 2019.

The themes and personalities featured are observed from the ‘Style’ perspective: elegant, inspiring, exquisite. Style on Sunday is meant to stir the desires of men and women, catering for their pleasures and needs. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means: mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of Content House Group. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in the publication, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain.

18 STYLE EDITORIAL

editor’s

importance of spreading positivity. From London to LA, Marama is one of Malta’s most successful acting exports, and she is known “I will honour Christmas in my for being a joy to work with – as Photo by Kris Micallef heart, and try to keep it all the Hair by Reece Davison at Dean Gera Salons she was when she was shooting year.” – Charles Dickens Make-up by Chris Attard for Franks, using Guerlain for our gorgeous cover interview his is easily my favourite (page 21). She shares her excitetime of year. Not so much because of the matement about the festive season, and brings us up to rialistic side of Christmas but because of the goodspeed on the fantastic projects she’s working on right will that seems to prevail – a smile here, well wishes now (including one that’s just gone live on Netflix). there. Like Dickens, I would love it if that could last And of course, there’s so much more of Christmas all year! running through the mag – from our festive fashion So I hope that our Christmas edition is an adeinterviews on page 53, to our make-up look, deliquate reflection of that happy, festive feeling – startcious recipes and fabulous interiors. ing with our lovely ‘celebrity chefs’ interview on From all of us to all of you – do have a very Merry page 33 – which takes you right into the kitchens of Christmas and a Happy New Year. See you in 2019! three of Malta’s best-known cooks. There they share their love for the season through the dishes that they have cooked for their families year after year, and even divulge one of their favourite recipes. Maybe PS: We’re 10! This issue we’re also celebrating 10 you could add it to your festive table this year? incredible years of Style – yet another reason to Meanwhile, our lovely cover star for this issue, be thankful! Thank you for being with us on this Marama Corlett, is also a shining example of the wonderful journey. Read all about it on page 30.

LETTER

T

Follow Jo on Twitter at twitter.com/jocaruana and Style on Facebook by searching for Style on Sunday Magazine.

COMPETITION This issue, you could win the new luminous and dazzling variation of Elie Saab’s Girl of Now perfume, Girl of Now Shine 50ml eau de parfum, worth €78.15.

To enter, all you have to do is answer the following question: Which aspect of Style did you enjoy most this issue, and why?

Send your answers, as well as your telephone number, to win@styleonsunday.com or in writing to: Style on Sunday, Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel BKR 3000.

Competition closes 1 March 2019. One entry per person. Terms & Conditions apply. Last issue, Audrianne Magro won the Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Capsules for eyes, worth €72.96.

STYLE interview 21

Marama Corlett

Sparkling

on Stage and Screen With a new show on Netflix and countless other film and TV successes under her belt, Marama Corlett is easily one of Malta’s most accomplished international actresses.

In this exclusive interview with Jo Caruana, Marama shares her recent highlights, and her exciting plans for 2019 and beyond.

Styling: Sarah Micallef Photography: Matthew B Spiteri Make-up: Danilo Monforte for Roseberry Hair: NEV Hair Salon, Naxxar Nails: Daphne’s Nails & Beauty Clothing: Lulù Boutique Jewellery: Uno De 50, Sliema Shot on location at The Snop House, Senglea (See full feature on pages 72-73)

Marama wears: Uno de 50 Man OjO earrings, ¤85, and Uno de 50 Zen bracelet, ¤95, available from Uno De 50, Sliema

22 STYLE interview

“I went on to play the series-regular role of Rina in the television drama Sinbad… before taking part in other feature films like Desert Dancer alongside Freida Pinto, Maleficent with Angelina Jolie and The Goob with Sean Harris.”

Marama wears: Uno de 50 Aurora Borealis necklace, ¤179, Uno de 50 Croco Tears earrings, ¤85, Uno de 50 B12 bracelet, ¤95, Uno de 50 Zen bracelet, ¤95, available from Uno De 50, Sliema

I

t’s bright and early on a Thursday morning but Maltese actress Marama Corlett bounds into our shoot location with a wide smile on her face and infectious enthusiasm. As an international actress, I have no doubt that this is part of her appeal – she’s a joy to work with and brings bags of energy and passion to the set, along with bucketloads of talent and a trademark style that makes her stand out, even in some of the most competitive acting markets around the world.

“I actually started out as a ballerina,” Marama explains, adding that she then transitioned from dancing into acting and moved to the UK. Her first role was in the West End production of The Children’s Hour, directed by Ian Rickson (Jerusalem), opposite Ellen Burstyn and Keira Knightley.

“After that, I went on to play the series-regular role of Rina in the television drama Sinbad for Sky Atlantic and on SyFy in the US, before taking part in other feature films like Desert Dancer alongside Freida Pinto, Maleficent with Angelina Jolie and The Goob with Sean Harris.”

And her impressive list of credits goes on… there was the TV series the Dovekeepers for CBS, and AD – The Bible Continues on NBC, as well as the West End production of The Crucible at The Old Vic Theatre with Richard Armitage.

Now, her latest work includes BBC2’s The City and the City with David Morrissey, playing AKI in Blood Drive on America’s SyFy channel,

Seasons 1 and 2 of Sick Note for SkyOne alongside Rupert Grint and Nick Frost (which you can watch on Netflix), and – in the New Year – Season 7 of Cinemax and Sky One’s Strike Back.

It’s clear that there’s no stopping her, but I decide to venture back to the beginning and ask Marama how she got started in the first place. “My grandparents always had Italian television on when I was growing up,” she says. “I remember being fascinated by the actor and comedian Totò, and I loved films by Antonioni, De Sica and Rossellini. I was intrigued by how the actors did what they did; how they made it look and feel so real. Little did I know at such a young age that I was watching some of the best work of neorealism that existed – all I knew was that it resonated with me.”

24 STYLE interview

“One of my greatest ambitions is to own a property in my hometown, Valletta.”

Marama wears: Uno de 50 Bis-a-dos ring, ¤105, and Uno de 50 Scales earrings, ¤85, available from Uno De 50, Sliema

Fast forwarding a few years and the love of cinema stayed with her, although she chose to train in classical ballet at the time and didn’t want to go down the typical drama-training route. “That said, I knew I was still preparing myself for an acting career somehow, and the transition felt pretty organic when I moved into acting full-time seven years ago.”

And, although she’s had an extremely varied career across stage and TV so far, Marama pinpoints one of her highlights as her first West End experience in 2011.

“I was in London transitioning from the ballet world to acting at the time,” she says.

“I was waitressing, doing medical improv work, ushering at a cinema and cleaning a private home on the weekends to make ends meet. I was exhausted and all I could think of was how much I wanted to act. Then, just like magic, I booked my first ‘proper’ acting job as Louis Fisher in The Children’s Hour by Lillian Hellman, alongside greats like Ellen Burstyn, Carol Kane, Keira Knightley and Elisabeth Moss. It was incredible, and I loved every moment of it.”

That said, there have been challenges too – such as playing Betty Paris in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible at the Old Vic Theatre. “It was really intense to live as Betty for six months,” Marama continues.

“The story plays out as a crisis that unfolds through the eyes of a child in 1692, having lost her mother, convulsing, and being afraid of being hanged. Miller’s genius, timeless writing slowly drags you into this visceral, heart-rending story. I loved it, but the rehearsal process was very physically and emotionally demanding, and I actually lost a lot of my hair and weight as a result.

My body reacted as though I really was going through the trauma myself.”

And beyond that, Marama explains that one of the hardest parts about working in acting is actually getting the work.

“The industry is so saturated with hopeful actors, and no one can prepare you for the downtime in between jobs,” she says. “When it does occur, it’s a constant struggle to stay motivated and to not give up; but what is really wonderful are the tight friendships you make and that

‘family feeling’ on set or on stage that’s irreplaceable – as well as that those people you connect with tend to stick with you along the way. You find strength and support in each other and help each other along the way. I’ve been really blessed in that way.”

Asked to share any particular stories that stand out, Marama immediately brings up a ‘fantastic’ actress she met on The Crucible – Natalie Gavin. “We became very close friends very quickly and her family invited me to their home up north in Bradford once the show had ended. Meeting her dad, who is originally from Ireland, I couldn’t help but mention that it felt as though I had met him before. His family just felt so incredibly familiar to me. I thought nothing of it but, four years on, after receiving a DNA test that I took to learn more about my heritage, I found out that Natalie’s dad was in fact my fourth cousin! He had taken the same DNA test a year before me and the company we both used connected us. We were all indeed family. We couldn’t believe it, especially after Natalie and I had worked together for six long months and were so drawn to each other.”

26 STYLE interview

“Christmas in Malta is so nostalgic for me – just spending time with family and friends.”

Marama wears: Uno de 50 B12 necklace, ¤145, Uno de 50 B12 bracelet, ¤95, and Uno de 50 Croco Tears earrings, ¤85, available from Uno De 50, Sliema

Now, Marama looks forward to the other fantastic experiences, and is already gearing up for a busy new year – especially with the release of Strike Back, which will be out in a few weeks.

“I am also so excited to be sharing a screen with the likes of Rupert Grint (of Harry Potter fame), Nick Frost and Lindsay Lohan on Netflix, as Sick Note was great fun to film.

In the months to come, I am looking forward to working in the US for a while, and also potentially back here in Malta, which would be wonderful.”

In the meantime, though, the actress is gearing up for a relaxing Christmas – and was thrilled to be home for a few days to shoot our cover.

“I actually spent Christmas in Malta last year,” she says.

“It’s so nostalgic being here with the family and just eating, drinking and spending time at home. This year I’ll be spending Christmas with my 91-year-old grandad Ron, in New Zealand.

Gramps lost our grandma last year after a very happy 65 years together. It’s heartbreaking. I can’t wait to just give him hugs and spend time with him over the holidays.”

Finally, I ask Marama to share her New Year’s resolutions and, as is her wont, they are so true to her personality. “I plan to spend more time with those who are close to me, while also taking a writing course and learning to play the trumpet,” she smiles. “When I think of my future, I am most concerned about spending time with the people I love. I want to be happy, healthy, with lots of work… and to own a house in my hometown, Valletta.” n

“Just like magic I booked my first ‘proper’ acting job.”

Marama’s favourites

STYLE interview 29

Place in the world

Place to shop

Valletta

Thrift shops

Accessory

Philanthropic cause

Gold chains and trinkets

Celebrating Christmas Mass with persons with disabilities and the elderly at Dar talProvidenza through WFWP Malta, and speaking up for those seeking refuge in collaboration with MOAS

Film/TV Series My childhood favourites were Return to Oz and Umberto D

Book Think and Grow Rich

by Napoleon Hill

Thing to do Hanging out with the elderly

Artist Caravaggio

Food Oysters and chips

Drink Lagavulin whisky

Marama wears: Uno de 50 Looping ring, ¤105, and Uno de 50 Croco Tears earrings, ¤85, available from Uno De 50, Sliema

Christmas tradition Cold turkey toasties on Christmas evening

Christmas song Ninni la tibkix izjed

30 STYLE ANNIVERSARY

1O Fabulous Our 41st edition also marks 10 years since we first launched Style on Sunday in 2008.

“10

years of Style? You’ve got to be kidding me!” Jo Caruana smiles, as she leafs through the 40 editions of Style piled up on her desk. “I know it’s clichéd, but it literally feels like yesterday that I was approached to help launch the magazine, alongside a closeknit team of publishing minds, creatives and sales experts, all of whom wanted to give local readers something fantastic to look forward to with their Sunday papers.

“I recall that my first question was: ‘Will I have an editor’s picture?’” Jo laughs. “I had dreamt of being an editor for as long as I could remember, and was so excited that it was finally happening.”

Fast forward a decade and Style has certainly been a journey for Jo and the rest of the team. To this day it is a popular read, known for its interesting stories, beautiful shoots and on-point seasonal trends.

“Creating a magazine is such fun,” Jo continues. “But – like with most things – it’s probably hard to imagine the amount of work that goes into each story, each page, and every shoot.

There’s hours and hours of behind-the-scenes elements to get right, with countless people

on sundaY

ISSUE 09 DECEMBER 2010

STYLE ON SUNDAY

ISSUE 01 DECEMBER 2008

GERRY SCOTTI Exclusive

night at the opera Fashion That Turns Heads

exClusive! nigel Barker

America’s Next Top Model Judge, Photographer & Father

Fiorella & Giannella “FAMILY TIES”

ON SUNDAY

The STYle eNTerTAiNmeNT SpeciAl Tips for festive flair

Freedom Behind Closed doors

Christmas in a Cloistered Community

lending a hand. It’s very satisfying when things come together and we can finally see the results on-screen during the design process, and then on page when the magazine is printed.

The best part of every issue is always sitting down with my copy on the Sunday morning, and leafing through it with a cup of tea and looking back on the many moments that went into its creation.”

As you can probably imagine, choosing each issue’s cover star is pretty high on the agenda.

“It’s one of my favourite parts of the process but also one of the most challenging,” Jo continues. “We always try to select someone who is achieving brilliant things in that moment, but who isn’t telling their story everywhere else. We like to share something new and interesting with our readers, and to take a different angle.

“For me, the best thing about creating our cover is getting to know people that I might not get to meet otherwise, or spending time with them at an important moment in their lives. From being invited into Joseph Calleja’s beautiful home to chat about his career to hanging out with Ira Losco and taking her son

ISSUE 17 DECEMBER 2012

Christmas With…

Chic individuals invite us over a time For GivinG What it’s really all about

CATWALK LOOKS For Less

CHRISTMAS INDULGENCE

aristoCratiC asPirations Fashion for the party season

How Alcoholics Face the Holidays

"I'm a mum, I multI-task!"

STEPHANIE SPITERI

GIFTS IDEAS FOR HIM & HER

ON STYle, fAmilY AND lAw

STYLE ANNIVERSARY 31

Years of Style Here, editor Jo Caruana takes a trip down memory lane by looking back over our 10 Christmas covers.

Harry’s first cover shot, it’s always a privilege and I find that the interviewee is usually as excited as we are.”

Shoots are also where Jo and the team need to have many ‘make it work’ moments. “I am always impressed how, despite weeks of planning, there is always something I haven’t thought of !” Jo grins. “But I think it’s all about finding a way of thinking outside the box and getting to the solution.

“One of the funniest moments I can recall was probably on a food shoot a few years back, while working with photographer Tonio Lombardi and chef Stefan Hogan. We were shooting by the pool area and I was adamant about creating a ‘bubble look’ while our dishes floated on the water for effect. This was easier said than done and, in the end, I found myself kneeling by the side of the pool (in heels, as always!), blowing into a long tube to create bubbles, while Tonio balanced on a ladder and Stefan

tried to stop the food from falling into the water. The result? We got the shot! But we were all drenched and everyone kept making funny comments about my tube…”

When Jo looks back, she says it is the hundreds of people that have contributed to the magazine that have made it such an incredible journey so far. “We’ve been able to meet and work with such lovely, talented individuals,” she says. “From our interviewees to the make-up artists, hair stylists, designers, photographers, fashion stylists, home owners and models, everyone has brought something special to our 10-year journey, and contributed something to the legacy that is Style.

“10 years is a milestone I know the whole team is thrilled to have reached – so thank you to everyone who has been part of that and, of course, to our readers – many of whom have been with us on the adventure from the beginning. I wonder what the next 10 will look like!” n

ON SUNDAY

ISSUE 29 • DECEMBER 2015

Malta’s top pâtissiers & their festive showstoppers

SHINE & SPARKLE

FashiON that dazzles

FOR THE LOVE OF LAW

3 mums 15 kids!

Large families at Christmas

“Style has always been known for its interesting stories, beautiful shoots and on-point seasonal trends.”

ON SUNDAY

THE YEAR AHEAD

The resolutions that matter, from the experts that know

EL BULLI CELEBRITY CHEF Speaks to Style

THE STYLISH MUMS’ CLUB… … talks fashion and sophistication after motherhood

ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 2011

Gil l i a n Zammit The classical beauty on art, travel and style WINTER INSPIRATION

Fashion, beauty and interiors we covet this season

STYLE LIVING 33

COOKING WITH THE STARS AT CHRISTMAS Cooking food for others is a sign of love and care, so it’s no surprise that it’s intertwined so tightly with the Christmas season – a time for all of us to come together and enjoy the company of family and loved ones over a feast prepared from the heart. Three doyennes of Maltese cooking invited Marie-Claire Grima into their kitchens to discuss what Christmas means to them, and to share a festive recipe of their own.

Photography by Alan Carville

Gloria Mizzi With a broadcasting career spanning more than 50 years, and two cookbooks – Glorious Food and More Glorious Food – under her belt, Gloria Mizzi’s cooking has inspired generations of Maltese people to get creative in the kitchen.

“I started celebrating Christmas properly when we moved to Malta when I was 15 years old. Of course, we always used to celebrate the feast as Roman Catholics but, since we were in Tripoli, we didn’t have the turkey and all the trimmings. It was more of an Italian-style celebration, with tortellini in brodo, fish and panettone for dessert, and the festivities mostly took place over Christmas Eve. Christmas pudding was very new to me – it’s the only thing I still don’t make myself. I’ll buy it ready-made, pour brandy over it, and set it on fire. My grandson calls it the fire cake!

“I usually spend Christmas here and New Year’s in Switzerland, where my son and his family live, or vice-versa. They have different traditional Christmas dishes over there too, such as duck and stollen cake. A funny thing happened one time when I was visiting – I had prepared the turkey for the following day, but it was too big to go in the fridge. I thought it would be a great idea to leave it overnight in the garden, since it was so cold, but my son just burst out laughing and said ‘yes, sure, if you want the foxes to have their Christmas first!’

“When the family gets together for Christmas, I’ll usually prepare a fish starter, such as smoked salmon with cream cheese, and then turkey and gammon, with a selection of seasonal vegetables. For dessert, I like making the qaghqa tal-cavatelli (cavatelli ring), small pastry balls dipped in honey with citrus fruits, sprinkled with chopped hazelnuts, arranged in a circle. I also make mince pies and mincemeat sponges.

I make my own mincemeat. All of a sudden, I’ve become wary of all the ingredients you find listed on premade items – I don’t know what half of them are!

“I like going around the shops at this time of year, although I think it’s all too over-commercialised. Christmas for me is a children’s holiday, with nicely-wrapped presents stacked under the tree and opened before lunch, while the adults sip mulled wine. Now that the children have grown up, they don’t like the presents nanna gets them – the clothes are too conservative (although everyone likes cash!). But everyone gets me nice presents. I’m not difficult to shop for. And having my family around me is the most precious thing of all.”

“Christmas for me is a children’s holiday, with nicelywrapped presents stacked under the tree and opened before lunch, while the adults sip mulled wine.”

34 STYLE LIVING

Gloria Mizzi’s Panforte Serves 6 “In Italian, ‘panforte’ literally means ‘strong bread’. It is the most famous Sienese cake, first mentioned in old documents from 1205.

One has to be very careful not to overcook it. I chose this recipe because I’m very partial to almonds. Orange and lemon candied peel can be hard to find in shops, so I make mine myself.”

Ingredients

180g toasted almonds, chopped 180g mixed candied peel, preferably orange and lemon, cubed 180g plain flour 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tbsp mixed ground spices – coriander, nutmeg, cloves and aniseed Unsalted butter for cake pan 270g honey ½ tsp ground cinnamon mixed with 1 tbsp plain flour Method

In a large bowl, combine the almonds, candied peel, flour, cinnamon and mixed spices. Mix well. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a 28cm cake pan with oven paper and butter the paper well.

In a saucepan over low heat, heat the honey, stirring continuously for about 2mins. Stir the hot honey into the flour mixture, blending well. Taking care not to burn your fingers, shape the mixture into a ball. Flatten the ball of dough evenly in the prepared pan. Pour the cinnamon-flour mixture into a sieve and shake it over the top of the cake. Bake the cake until golden brown for no longer than 20mins.

Remove the cake from the pan and let cool on a wire rack. When cool, peel off the oven paper and place the cake on a platter. Any leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container.

STYLE LIVING 37

“At Christmas, everybody is in a better mood than usual – it’s a wonderful time.”

Pippa Mattei Cook, food writer and educator Pippa Mattei published her first cookbook in 2003. Her second book, Pippa’s Festa, was voted Best Entertaining Book in the World at the Gourmand Awards in France in 2013. Pippa is a fixture in culinary circles in Malta, and has also made television appearances in the US, Greece and Gibraltar.

“I’ve always been excited about Christmas.

The earliest Christmas memory I have is of singing O Tannenbaum when I was in kindergarten in Germany. It was the first time I was on stage! When we moved back to Malta, we moved to a villa in Zejtun called Villa Arrigo.

My mother was very good at entertaining, and she used to host the whole family – we would be around 30 people, and she used to lay the table for Christmas about a week before. She would cook the turkey to perfection on Christmas Eve, so, by Christmas Day, it would be easy to carve. With hot vegetables and gravy, the turkey doesn’t need to be piping hot. We kept going to my mother’s until about 10 years ago, when I took over.

“At Christmas, everybody is in a better mood than usual – it’s a wonderful time.

Every December, I attend the Festival of 9 Carols and Lessons by the Choral Society

at St Paul’s Pro-Cathedral in Valletta. It’s a beautiful tradition. On Christmas Eve, some of our friends come over, and then some of us go to church. On Christmas Day, we’ll have gammon, turkey and timpana – my husband’s father, Dr Salvinu Mattei’s recipe – and then pudding, qaghaq tal-ghasel, cake, fruit from the garden, stuffed dates and nuts. Then we sit by the fire and exchange presents.

“I prepare everything rather like my mother did, except I make a lot more mince pies! I had two aunts, Jane and Cella, and they had the most wonderful recipe for mince pies.

Cella was a nurse and she travelled a lot, and she was an inspiration to me. I’m working on her memoirs – she left me all her recipes, so I’m going through them and modernising them for print. I have lots of plans for other books too. I like to promote Maltese recipes and, at the moment, I give cookery lessons to people from all over the world – Germany, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, the UK. Many of them will have had a Maltese grandmother, and remember her cooking traditional dishes, and will want to learn how to make them themselves.”

38 STYLE LIVING

PIPPA MATTEI’S QAGĦAQ TAL-GĦASEL Makes approx 12 side-plate-sized honey rings

“Honey rings are sold in shops all year round, but it is at Christmastime that the citrus fruits and spices you need are in season. Although you can buy them easily, the home-made ones are far superior. The following recipe is from my friend Anna’s family cookery book.”

Ingredients for the filling

150g blanched almonds, roasted and roughly ground 150g granulated sugar 800g semolina 2¼ tins black treacle Zest of 1 orange, 1 lemon and 3 tangerines 400g candied peel, finely chopped 1 tumbler water 12 whole cloves 1 cinnamon stick 1½ tbsp cacao, optional Ingredients for the pastry

750g plain flour 30g butter 2 egg yolks 2 tots anisette 1 tsp vanilla 1 cup water, with a little evaporated milk

Method

Both the pastry and the filling can be made up to 48hrs in advance. To make the pastry, sift the flour into a large mixing bowl, preferably of an electric blender. Chop up the butter and add to the flour, blend till the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolks, anisette and vanilla and then, mixing all the time, add the water and evaporated milk, until a dough is formed. The dough should be firm but still pliable. Allow to rest in the fridge for a day or two.

To make the filling, bring a tumbler of water to the boil and add the whole cloves and cinnamon stick. Take off the fire and allow to infuse, then strain water and discard cloves and cinnamon stick. Set the water aside. Put the treacle on a low fire with the sugar and infused water. When the sugar is melted, mix in all the other ingredients except the semolina. Stir well and then add the semolina,2 stirring for about 10mins. Remove from heat and allow to set in a cool place for 48hrs.

When ready to make rings, roll out some pastry on a work surface sprinkled with lots of flour, to measure a rectangle, about 30cm long by 10cm wide. Take a generous spoonful of your filling and shape into a long sausage on a surface sprinkled with semolina. Lay this in the middle of the pastry rectangle, leaving about 2cm at each end empty.

Dampen the edges and fold the pastry over to encase the filling. Carefully ease the sausage to form a ring and putting one end inside the other, seal the whole ring. With a sharp knife, slash the top of the pastry ring in six places, lifting these openings so that the filling shows through.

Repeat until all pastry and filling are used up.

Bake in a pre-heated oven at 190°C for 25mins or until the pastry is lightly coloured. Once cooked, allow honey rings to cool and then store in airtight containers until ready to eat.

STYLE LIVING 41

Karmen Tedesco Karmen Tedesco is one of the most familiar names in Maltese cookery. Renowned for recipes that put a more health-conscious twist on local cuisine, she has published 11 Maltese cookbooks and has another one on the way, this time with her favourite collaborators – her grandchildren.

“Back in my day, Christmas used to be a lot more about the birth of Jesus. We’d have a large crib and a small Christmas tree, decorations which we’d make ourselves by cutting coloured tissue paper and hanging strips of crepe to form a trellis, and we’d open a few presents – certainly not as many as the kids get nowadays!

“I have two children and six grandchildren, and they all come over to mine for Christmas.

We’ll have lots of antipasti, dips, crudités, sweet peppers, gbejniet, olives, and an aperitif.

Then I serve brodu with tortellini. The children love it – they call it the Christmas brodu.

Then, we don’t have a whole turkey, but a stuffed turkey breast, or fish, and the usual mix of vegetables. For dessert, I like to serve something with almonds – I don’t like Christmas pudding, it’s too heavy. Then we bring out the cheese board and, soon after that, it’s time for tea, with fruitcake and mince pies.

By the end of it, everyone will be stuffed, but that’s why we linger. We spend the whole day just eating and talking.

“My late husband Wilfred used to love Christmas. He’d light up the whole house, and it used to look like Fairyland. But ever since he passed away on New Year’s Day 2014, I have to say it hasn’t been my favourite time of year. Whenever I start hearing Christmas carols, I can’t help but think to myself, what’s there to be happy about? But I don’t like saying it in front of the children – sometimes you just need to put on a brave face and carry on.

“Now I am planning to write a cookbook together with my grandchildren, Kristina, Martina, Daniel, Lara, Benjamin, and baby Sam. They’re all quite keen on cooking, and it is their dream for us to write a book together! Martina has already started planning, with her own little notebook of recipes. Of course, I have my own recipes that I intend to put in there too. I tend to look at what I’ve done on radio and TV that my viewers have enjoyed most, see which ones were the most popular, and that’s what’ll go in the book.”

42 STYLE LIVING

KARMEN TEDESCO’S CHRISTMAS BRODU Makes 4-6 portions

“My grandmother made this brodu every Christmas.

I used to serve fancier soups for Christmas lunch, but once the grandchildren started coming along, we had to make something nutritious for them. We always make the tortellini together. The trick for a tasty broth is to let the meat simmer for as long as you can – at least one hour, but two if you can afford to.”

Ingredients for the tortellini

50g onions, finely chopped 1 tbsp olive oil 200g mushrooms, finely chopped 100g prosciutto, chopped 500g cooked chicken breast ¼ tsp grated nutmeg 2 tbsps chopped parsley ¼ tsp mixed herbs freshly ground black pepper Ingredients for the broth

300g beef for broth (shin or chuck) or chicken carcass or 500g chicken necks and wings or turkey giblets and wings 2 litres water 50g onions 100g carrots stalk of celery 5 home-made egg pasta tortellini per person (follow recipe below) or 100g fine pasta (stelline) 1 level tbsp chopped parsley Method

To make the tortellini filling, first sauté the onion in the oil until soft. Add the mushrooms and prosciutto, and cook for a few minutes. Blend all the ingredients together to form a paste.

Shape the tortellini by rolling out the pastry as thinly as possible, and use a 7cm pastry cutter to cut circles. Place a teaspoon of filling in the middle of each pasta circle, and moisten the edges with water. Fold the dough over to form a half moon, then draw the two ends together to form a rounded-bonnet shape. Press tightly to seal, toss with flour or semolina, set aside on a well-floured baking sheet and cover.

To make the broth, put the beef, chicken or turkey, onions, carrots and celery into a large pot and cover with water. Bring all the ingredients very slowly to simmering point and then simmer for at least one hour.

Strain all the broth and cut a few pieces of the meat to add to the soup. Skim the fat off the broth, taste and season. Cook the tortellini or stelline in the broth and serve garnished with chopped parsley. n

STYLE FASHION 45

AlterEgos From casual to formal, STYLE ON SUNDAY brings the festive season’s key pieces together.

PHOTOGRAPHY: BERNARD POLIDANO STYLING: IGGY FENECH HAIR: CHRIS GALEA FROM MICHAEL&GUY MAKE-UP: CHRIS ATTARD FOR FRANKS, USING GUERLAIN MODELS: KYLIE AT MODELS M; SARAH AT SUPERNOVA MODELS Shot on location at Derek Garden Centre, Qormi

Kylie wears: Top and gloves from Armani Exchange; trousers from Mango; shoes from Oltre; bag from Furla; Ted Baker bangle from Sunlab.

Sarah wears: Dress from Verve; shoes from Mango; bag from Furla; Ted Baker bracelet from Sunlab; earrings stylist’s own.

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Kylie wears: Dress from Lulù Boutique; Vera Mont cardigan from Mei Boutique; earrings from Verve; handbag from Furla.

Sarah wears: Dress from Lulù Boutique; jacket from Armani Exchange; Skagen necklace from Sunlab.

STYLE FASHION 47

Kylie wears: Top and jacket from Mango; Betty Barclay shirt from Mei Boutique; jeans from Hilfiger Denim; Michael Kors watch, Fossil rings and Skagen necklace from Sunlab.

Sarah wears: Betty Barclay top and trousers from Mei Boutique; Michael Kors watch, Max&Co sunglasses and Fossil ring from Sunlab.

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Sarah wears: Vera Mont dress from Mei Boutique; belt, gloves and faux fur shawl from Armani Exchange; bag from Furla.

Kylie wears: Dress and boots from Armani Exchange; faux fur jacket from LulĂš Boutique; gloves from Hilfiger Denim; bag from Furla; Armani necklace from Sunlab.

STYLE FASHION 49

Sarah wears: Top from Oltre; trousers and earrings from Verve; Betty Barclay coat from Mei Boutique.

Kylie wears: Blouse from Oltre; Betty Barclay jumper from Mei Boutique; skirt from Armani Exchange; hat from Verve.

50 STYLE FASHION

Kylie wears: Catsuit and earrings from Verve; blazer and headband from Mango; Betty Barclay belt from Mei Boutique; shoes from Hilfiger Denim; bag from Furla; Skagen bangle and Fossil ring from Sunlab.

Sarah wears: Jumpsuit from Mango; faux fur jacket from Oltre; belt from Verve; bag from Furla; Ted Baker necklace and Ted Baker sunglasses from Sunlab.

STYLE FASHION 53

What They’ll Wear Three of Malta’s most stylish tell STYLE ON SUNDAY what they’ll be wearing over the festive season and why.

INTERVIEWS BY IGGY FENECH PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALAN CARVILLE

Meanwhile, these cross earrings were inspired by this year’s Met Gala Ball, which explored Catholic Imagination – in fact, religious iconography has been all the rage since.

The shoes and handbag, however, have been kept simple, and I chose a nude shade for my lips – although I may change my mind and go for bright red on the night!

With a following of over 120,000 on Instagram, influencer and model SARAH ZERAFA (@sosazerafa) is often in the spotlight.

The holiday season, however, is a time for her to unwind and catch up with family and friends.

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M

y life’s changing so quickly that I have no idea where I’ll be spending Christmas and New Year’s. Having said that, it will definitely be with my family and my boyfriend, Jean.

For Christmas Eve, I will opt for the standard red. Yet, while I normally choose in-your-face outfits, this time I decided to keep it simple and use accessories to bling it up.

The style of the dress – long sleeves and a high neckline – also makes it unnecessary to match a jacket with it. I’ll wear a coat, of course, but I’ll leave it in the cloakroom.

For New Year’s Eve, I have chosen a beige dress, which I would normally avoid like the plague because of my hair colour. Thankfully, the brown roots make it easier for me to pull it off… with beige, the only thing you have to keep in mind is that the particular shade needs to complement your skin tone.

The dress also brings out my hour-glass figure and makes me look taller – which are both pluses.

I matched this with a mushroom-coloured coat to keep me warm, and topped it all off with a cross-necklace on a choker chain.

When buying my outfits, I look for individual pieces rather than complete looks. I shop online, at flea markets, and at a variety of highstreet shops, but always top them off with statement pieces – such as a beret or a nice piece of jewellery.”

54 STYLE FASHION

I also like block colours and to layer varying but similar tones; hence, my New Year’s Eve outfit is a maroon-coloured blazer I had tailormade in Vietnam and a shirt with mandarin collar beneath in a slightly darker shade, coupled with a pair of plain navy trousers.

My jewellery is mostly borrowed or inherited, so those smaller, more special pieces are a statement rather than anything else. I wear most daily, and with whatever I’m wearing. They’re great pieces to have!

Freelance architectural designer and creative ANDREW BORG WIRTH (@aborgwirth) has had a busy few months creating the staging for Tosca at the Aurora, for fashion designer Luke Azzopardi’s latest showcase, and much more. Nevertheless, Christmastime is a laid-back affair, when he plans to recharge before the New Year.

I

like to be comfortable at Christmas, and in the company of our nearest and dearest. Over New Year, on the other hand, I’ll be travelling with some friends to Barcelona to join many others for the city’s national celebrations. The outfits I chose are items that I’d wear in each of these different contexts.

My wardrobe is made up of pieces I’ve collected over time and I put things together because of their colour and fit. For Christmas Eve, I thought a plain black sweater and statement palazzo trousers would be both fun and comfortable.

My style is not too rigid, though – I don’t like to think too much about it and just have a bit of fun with it all. I resent the idea that there is one preconditioned look I should have because of my gender, my age, my profession or my sexuality. Realistically, it’s just an outfit and it’s just one night.

Ultimately, it’s about feeling good in what you’re wearing. The small decisions we make and the quick checks we run in front of a mirror are what allow us to escape from the boring and really set a bit of a tone.

STYLE FASHION 57

Each outfit is adjustable, with a removable collar and wrists for the dress, and removable wrists for the white blouse. These add glamour when needed, and become simpler for those more relaxing moments.

Also, both outfits are from my first collection and were inspired by the Château de Courances in France. Wearing them on special occasions reminds me of the beautiful times gone by and the wonderful times ahead.

Founder and creative director of her own namesake women’s and bridal label DIANE de MALHERBE (@dianedemalherbe) recently moved to Malta from France. As she will be getting away for the holiday season – to Biarritz in the South of France for Christmas and the Italian Alps for New Year’s – her clothes reflect the need for versatility.

I

n general, I would describe my style as feminine and elegant, but I have always preferred the beauty of simplicity rather than being overdressed. The fantasy can be in the unexpected details, colours or embellishments.

Because the celebrations at this time of the year last all day, I have chosen two outfits that are both elegant and comfortable at the same time – this way, they can evolve along with the day.

The green dress with red detailing, which I chose for Christmas, is, I believe, the perfect colour mix for the occasion; setting the mood mentally and physically. This is also a comfortable dress and was designed so that it can be expanded at the waist.

Colour also plays a role in my New Year’s Eve outfit, with the silver embroidery making a powerful statement as you rock in the New Year.

I paired this with a pair of black trousers just to ensure warmth and comfort on such a cold night.

My advice as you put together your own outfits is not to be afraid to glam them up with glittery or shiny shoes and jewellery, while also ensuring you stay true to yourself and your style… after all, that’s always the most glamorous part! n

STYLE CULTURE 59

Fabio Agius

Ian Churchill

Modern mementos of a nation’s heritage Promoting our local cultural heritage in a different way.

A

s the world bids goodbye to comic book legend Stan Lee, the characters that he created will continue to fascinate us. Nowadays, the cult of comics has many followers, some of whom are intrigued by the characters, while others by the design. In Malta, this cult is nourished

by Wicked Comics, which strives to provide suitable platforms for local artists to refine and showcase their skills. This year, Heritage Malta has collaborated with Wicked Comics in the publication of the book Impressions of An Island – A Malta Comic Con Artbook to promote our local cultural heritage in a different way.

The book, which was launched by Minister Owen Bonnici during the Malta Comic Convention in November, is a celebration of Maltese culture and local heritage, as well as pop culture. Its 160 pages in full colour are also a landmark that commemorate the 10th anniversary of this annual convention.

The Malta Comic Convention is now a recognised and respected entry in the global comics’ calendar. Comic fans look out for it since it offers them a unique opportunity to meet their favourite comic creators.

The annual convention serves also as a melting pot of ideas and interaction from which new ideas might come to life.

In this book, 56 artists, both local and foreign, have joined forces to offer a compilation of various artworks, most of which aim to connect the world of mythical heroes and legendary creatures with renowned Maltese cultural heritage sites and places. The vivid and colourful illustrations contribute to a fantastic new venture that portrays an innovative perspective of how to create modern mementos of a nation’s heritage.

As one flips through the kaleidoscopic journey inside this book, themes will vary from the romantic to the comic and to the horror genres. Dragons and monsters lure within prehistoric temples, the tentacles of a huge octopus threaten the high bastions of Fort St Angelo, an underwater mythical creature makes contact with a girl on a boat in the port, handsome and robust knights defend the islands, and popular heroes whizz across the UNESCO-listed Valletta skyline.

The wealth of talent and creativity leap out of the bizarre illustrations, turning this book into the ideal gift for all comic fans and art enthusiasts. Impressions of An Island – A Malta Comic Con Artbook is available for sale at all Heritage Malta museums and sites. n

More information is available on Heritage Malta’s website www.heritagemalta.org

60 STYLE LIVING

Bethlehem f ’Ghajnsielem celebrates its 10th anniversary 2018 is a milestone edition for Bethlehem f’Ghajnsielem – the 10th since the first opening of the live crib at Ta’ Passi fields in Gozo. It has been a long journey with every edition offering new attractions to strengthen the reproduction of the greatest story ever told – The Nativity Story. ethlehem f ’Ghajnsielem has always offered all the ingredients for a memorable experience, where Maltese folklore and traditions are intertwined with the Maltese crib. Throughout the years, the event has managed to attract international attention as a Top 10 worldwide destination at Christmastime.

Once again, the main attractions include the carpenter and blacksmith’s dwellings, the bakery, an open-air market selling seasonal fruits, fish and a wide selection of vegetables, a local crafts area promoting traditional skills and folklore, a tavern, a farmhouse with a panoramic roof, the room of scents, and the Bethlehem Inn. You can also travel on a ‘Maltese boat’ across the river. The ‘Castrum Romanum’ will again host the Roman garrison, who will be patrolling the streets of Bethlehem, collecting taxes and

Opening hours

taking the census as decreed by the Emperor of Rome. Several other re-enactments and live events will also be taking place during the hours of animation, while children will have the opportunity to try several ‘hands-on’ tools and families can enjoy the unique surroundings of the Maltese countryside or try some local snacks.

Finally, your last stop and the highlight of this journey is the ‘Grotto’ where a poor unknown couple is tending their newly-born Baby Jesus with a donkey and a cow close by. n

Sunday, 9 December 3.30pm-7.30pm Wednesday, 12 December * 9.30am-12.00pm Thursday, 13 December 2.30pm-7.30pm Saturday, 15 December 4.30pm-8.30pm Sunday, 16 December 2.30pm-7.30pm Saturday, 22 December 4.30pm-8.30pm Sunday, 23 December 2.30pm-7.30pm Tuesday, 25 December 3.30pm-8.00pm Wednesday, 26 December 2.30pm-7.30pm Friday, 28 December 4.30pm-7.30pm Saturday, 29 December 4.30pm-8.30pm Sunday, 30 December 2.30pm-7.30pm Tuesday, 1 January 3.30pm-8.00pm Saturday, 5 January** Activity Magi in Malta Sunday, 6 January *** 2.00pm-8.00pm *Animated by children for school children and elderly. **Event in Malta in aid of the Community Chest Fund.

Details to be announced at a later date. *** Departure of the Three Kings from Malta and Official Closing Ceremony.

For more information, visit www.ghajnsielem.com/bethlehem

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STYLE LIVING 63

p THE RUG GALLERY Discover a world of statement, luxury pieces at the Rug Gallery, where each rug in their breath-taking range of classic and contemporary pieces is crafted by hand and is truly one-of-a-kind.

Luscious and prestigious, each creation is a worthy centrepiece of any home. The Rug Gallery, Qui-Si-Sana Seafront, Sliema, T: 2133 4191, FB: RugGalleryMalta

u ABSOLUT Absolut wants to inspire people around the world to spread love with the launch of its latest limitededition bottle. In this new campaign, Absolut repurposes ink taken from hate signs around the world to spread a better message… love! Marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Co Ltd, T: 2381 4400.

p CORINTHIA PALACE #CorinthiaSocialWeekends is a new concept for the winter season, where you can enjoy fabulous lunches in the stunning Villa Corinthia every Saturday and Sunday. With something for every diner – including gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian options – there’s a lot to discover, including an interactive ice-cream and dessert bar and daytime cocktails! Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, T: 2144 0301, W: www.corinthia.com/palace

THEstyleCHECKLIST t KLIKK Christmas has definitely arrived at Klikk, with its mega sale on laptops, mobile phones, televisions and much more – all of which gives you the chance to win a dream holiday for two in Paris complete with return flights and accommodation (in collaboration with ROCS; T&C apply). And there’s more time to do it in as Klikk is extending its opening hours in December (9am-7pm Mon-Fri; 9am-6pm on Sat, Sun and public holidays)! W: www.klikk.com.mt

p IL-MITHNA No child’s room is complete without a themed duvet cover, and with a selection that includes Minions, Frozen, Spiderman, Cars, Planes, Thomas the Tank Engine, Fireman Sam, and Mickey and Minnie Mouse, you’ll be sure to find their favourite one at Il-Mithna, Birkirkara, T: 2144 5051.

p IL-MITHNA Whether you’re looking for blinds or curtains to dress your windows this winter, Il-Mithna have a large selection of fabric to suit every individual requirement – all at fantastic prices!

A professional in-house sewing service is also available. Il-Mithna, Birkirkara, T: 2144 5051.

p IL-MITHNA Keep warm this winter with Il-Mithna’s large selection of bedding, which includes flannel and fleece bed sheets, quilted bedspreads, plain bedspreads, duvets and duvet covers – all at great prices. Available in all sizes, ranging from single to queen. Il-Mithna, Birkirkara, T: 2144 5051.

STYLE BEAUTY 65

Release the Beauty within Discover DEA – an aesthetic beauty concept managed

by Denise Marston, who has 20 years of experience in the sector and was previously the Director and Owner of DeMar Beauty Supplies and Clinic.

Denise Marston

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EA is an aesthetic beauty concept for both men and women. “Our specialised team is here to share our expertise and give our best to our clients,” explains Denise Marston, the company’s founder and manager, who is a fully-qualified aesthetician with an internationally-recognised diploma and an entrepreneur, with 20 years’ experience in the beauty business. “Our facials are customised and executed with passion, as your skin deserves the best,” she continues.

At DEA, the team create a facial programme to help in any way they can, by using the top brands on the market, along with the latest technology and peels to help fight skin ageing, sagging, fine wrinkles, acne and scars. “Our technology is laser-based with radio frequency. We also provide microneedling and pen, as well as the famous Red Carpet facial, using the aqua gold needle and mesotherapy vials to nourish the skin from within.”

Dr Giovanni Scornavacca, DEA’s medaesthetic doctor, visits every two weeks, and has over 20 years’ experience in his field. He

specialises in botox, fillers, thread lifting and microbotox – which is new to Malta.

“We carry out mesotherapy as an anti-ageing and fat-burning tool,” continues Denise.

“And everything – from our facials to our mesotherapy – is tried and tested personally, before it is performed on our clients. So, with that in mind, I am very proud to introduce it to everyone and to present our unique knowledge on the subject.”

Together, DEA’s mesotherapy and slimming machines help achieve better results when it concerns pockets of old fat that are hard to get rid of after years of accumulation. “Our gift to you is yet to come in January 2019,” Denise smiles. “After all the festivities, excessive drinking and eating (with a few kilos added to the waistline!) we will be offering special discounts on SmartLipo.

This procedure is a less invasive style of liposuction, using just local anaesthetic. We are able to create a complete programme for it, and everything is included in the package at no extra cost.”

Beyond that, January and February are also the perfect months to treat pigmentation, scars, veins and fat reduction – helping you to feel fantastic by spring and summer.

Plus, the clinic also provides hair removal laser services, non-surgical face lifts using the latest technology and equipment, laser teeth whitening, semi-permanent makeup, eyelash extensions, spray tanning and much more, as well as personalised make-up courses by make-up artist Analise Micallef, which are greatly in-demand. Finally, to complete the service, massages are available

by Rebecca Borg and hair by Clare Mercieca, both of whom have years of experience and perform their roles with passion. n

About Dr Giovanni Scornavacca Dr Giovanni Scornavacca was born in Catania on 14 June 1959. He is a Professor at the Catania University General Medicine Specialisation School, Contract Professor at the Catania University Nephrology Specialisation School, and teaches Aesthetic Medicine at AMIOT (Homotoxicology Italian Medical Association). Dr Scornavacca was one of the pioneers in Italy to use non-surgical techniques for med-aesthetic purposes.

To book you Christmas appointments at DEA, call 2099 5704 or find them on Facebook.

STYLE BEAUTY 67

Get THE look!

SHINE

Bright If there’s a time of year when shimmer and gold become the musthave, Christmas is it! This stunning make-up look achieves exactly that – so that you can shine with confidence this festive season.

Make-up: CHRIS ATTARD FOR FRANKS, USING GUERLAIN Hair: CHRIS GALEA FROM MICHAEL&GUY Model: ANNA AT MODELS M Photography: BERNARD POLIDANO Top: ARMANI EXCHANGE Shot on location at Derek Garden Centre, Qormi

1 For flawless skin, start with a great foundation. Our recommendation is Guerlain’s Lingerie de Peau – because it is fresh, with a light texture that glides onto the contours of the face like a second skin. It lasts all day too, taking you from morning to evening.

2 Illuminated skin is just what we want at this time of year, and we love achieving exactly that with Guerlain’s Les Météorites – which have been redesigned for Guerlain’s 190th anniversary. They add radiance and warmth, and suit all complexions. We love the golden anniversary case, which was designed especially for this festive season.

STYLEtip

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For your eyes, Guerlain has created a festive limited-edition Electric-Look Palette, featuring 10 shades ranging from matte to metallic, and which can be mixed and matched on the eyes and cheeks. Perfect for Christmas!

For your cheeks, we suggest Guerlain’s Terracotta Powder – a bronzer that catches the light by adding refined, coppery, pearlescent flecks. It protects the skin from drying and ensures longlasting comfort, so it’s also good for dayto-night wear, and keeps you sun-kissed even when there’s no sun to speak of!

Finally, for that special kiss under the mistletoe, choose Guerlain’s Rouge G de Guerlain – which even allows you to choose your shade and matching case. You can select from a wide range of shades – from natural to bright red – while the hyaluronic acid and guggul resin in the lipstick itself help to smooth and plump your lips.

Did you know that skin brushing can help to remove dead skin cells and reveal cleaner, brighter-looking skin? Brushes are available from most good beauty shops, and simple brushing morning and night will achieve fantastic results.

STYLE BEAUTY 69

Beauty At Its Best Owned by Sue Caruana and her daughter Justine Cassano, Beauty Inc

by Sue is a small company that specialises in nails, foot care and semipermanent make-up, as well as the distribution of professional products.

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e are a team of dedicated and enthusiastic professionals who really enjoy doing our job,” Sue explains, when asked about Beauty Inc by Sue. “We all believe in regular education to keep up-to-date with the industry, and we also represent three of the best brands on the market: Andreia Professional Gel Products, Footlogix Pediceutical Products and Jacky M Iconic Lashes.”

Education and quality products are key to success here, ensuring that clients receive treatments from professional therapists who use only the best. “Clients think that having their nails or a pedicure done are basic services. “They do not realise how much education and practice are needed to do a good job, and how much product knowledge and experience a tech must have to be able to resolve any issues their clients may have. Beyond all that, a nail tech must be educated enough to know when to direct the client to a doctor if needed.”

As Sue explains, what some people do not understand or appreciate is that incorrect use of products or a lack of education will lead to problems such as long-term

allergies, infections, ingrown toenails and so much more. Technicians who charge low prices for their services are not investing in education and quality products.

“There are many girls who think that following a few YouTube tutorials makes them ready to perform treatments on unsuspecting clients. They buy super cheap products online and charge low prices that the clients think are great! But this is a short-term view; you may save a few euro

initially but, when you end up with a severe reaction in your eye due to cheap lash glue, or a bad fungal infection on your nails, or a viral infection on your feet, the cost of medication and the long-term issues will far outweigh the original savings,” Sue stresses.

And it’s the same with microblading and micropigmentation. “A three-day course does not qualify you to perform these services on clients. It takes hours of practice and years of education to get to a high level of understanding in this job.

Cheap prices are always an indication of lack of experience and/or qualifications.

Anyone who spends so much money on learning a trade will charge accordingly.

Choose your service providers wisely!” n Beauty Inc by Sue forms part of the Niumee team. It operates its main service point from its cutting-edge, med-aesthetic and beauty centre in Mriehel, and also runs a second, smaller outlet in Rue D’Argens, Gzira, T: 2032 0100/2099 7785.

Find them on Facebook.

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t M·A·C COSMETICS The XMAS Kiss gift kit: Give any M·A·C lipstick and lip liner for ¤29.50 (RRP ¤35.50). A cult classic! Visit M·A·C Cosmetics on Bisazza Steet, Sliema, at The Point, Sliema, or on Zachary Street, Valletta, INSTA: @maccosmeticsmalta

Winter WANTS

p DOLCE&GABBANA Dolce&Gabbana Beauty proudly presents two alluring new perfumes: The Only One for her, and The One Grey for him.

Dolce&Gabbana is exclusively represented

by C+M Marketing Ltd, T: 2142 4079. t LULÙ BOUTIQUE This isn’t the season to keep things simple – if anything, it’s the time to go lavish and luxe in fabulous coats, like this one. Indulge in fur (not real of course!), oversized coats and cosy shrugs, while looking feminine in the spectacular party dress collection – Charleston style, velvet textures, large mirrored sequins, simple slip dresses, or the never-out-offashion shift dresses.

LULÙ Boutique, T: 2133 1026.

p BOSS BOSS The Scent Private Accord for him refines the fruity facet of the maninka fruit and adds an accord combining cocoa and mocha to give the fragrance #augmentedsensuality.

Available from SV Beauty, T: 8007 2387.

p FOSSIL Meet our leading lady of style: Carlie creates one glamorous accessory. Use our engraving service to give this watch that personal touch.

Available from Sun Lab shops or VIP outlets, W: www.sunlab.com.mt t BOSS BOSS The Scent Private Accord for her emphasises the original addictive note of cocoa with the mysterious and irresistible charms of dark cocoa. Available from SV Beauty, T: 8007 2387.

t DR. GRANDEL By pairing ultra-modern active ingredients with the BeautyGen snow algae extract, DR. GRANDEL’s Renew Neck Cream supports the neck area like a ‘second’ skin. Available in beauty salons and spas. For trade enquiries, contact CAREWELL by Reactilab, M: 9982 8498, E: sales@reactilab.com

u DR. GRANDEL Performance 3D by DR. GRANDEL uses a cocktail of antiage and anti-stress ingredients to give your skin the care it needs to correct the signs of time. Available in beauty salons and spas.

For trade enquiries, contact CAREWELL by Reactilab, M: 9982 8498, E: sales@reactilab.com

p ARMANI EXCHANGE Featuring an asymmetrical front zip and angled pockets, this glamorous, partyready velvet jacket transforms the classic moto silhouette into something very special. Available from Armani Exchange, The Point (Level 0), Sliema, T: 2060 1193, W: www.trilogy.com.mt

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The Snop House

Enchanting accommodation in the heart of Senglea Senglea remains one of Malta’s largely-undiscovered treasures. But, right at its heart, is a boutique hotel determined to showcase the city’s splendid charms and character. Jo Caruana meets the team behind The Snop House.

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he sun shines over Senglea church and, just beyond, a pop of red greets you as you walk through the square. That red signifies that you’ve reached The Snop House – stunning boutique accommodation right in the core of this delightful (and often overlooked), historic city.

“The Snop House is a genuine reflection of two of the most important things in our lives,” says owner Olivier Plique, who transformed the property together with his partner Sophie Nicolas. “Originally we were looking for a pied-à-terre in Valletta because we’re totally in love with the city. We think it is becoming one of the most wonderful capitals anywhere in Europe. But it was a little too busy for us, so we started to look elsewhere and found ourselves in the Three Cities.”

The couple were drawn to the area because they consider it the cradle of Maltese history – a topic they are both fascinated by, especially when it comes to the period of the

Knights of St John. “The atmosphere immediately reminded us of Venice – especially Giudecca, which had been abandoned but was then rejuvenated. The Three Cities area has gone on the same journey and is now really coming into its own. As the smallest of the Three Cities, I find Senglea to be really special – because it’s a peninsula, you can’t just pass by, you have to come into it to see it.

The people here are so friendly too and life is wonderfully authentical. It was the same sort

of atmosphere I discovered in Gozo when I first moved there 20 years ago.”

Olivier and Sophie actually started their journey towards owning The Snop House by looking at the house next door, but were soon told that this one property was available too. “It was perfect!” Olivier smiles. “So well distributed and just the right size for a small hotel. We loved it immediately and decided to buy it within five minutes. Instantly, we started our adventure towards opening the hotel of our dreams – one that would be the perfect reflection of both our passions: Malta and art.”

Nevertheless, the couple knew they were facing a challenge. The property (previously a social club) had lain empty for 10 years and needed to be converted and modernised, but they believed it would be worth it – and it is. Today, The Snop House offers six luxuriously-designed bedrooms, with two on each floor of this impressive townhouse. Each is served with a lift and the magnificent internal

STYLE LIVING 73

“It’s the best way to enjoy life – the perfect place for a bit of dolce far niente living.”

for dinner, going over to Valletta on the ferry to experience the history or nightlife, or taking a water taxi for a spin around the Grand Harbour. It’s the best way to enjoy life – the perfect place for a bit of dolce far niente living.”

So with all of this in mind, it seems there really is nowhere better to choose to stay for a couple of days in Malta – whether you’re local or not. It is a treasure trove of art, design and hospitality – and the ideal spot from where to explore this stunning part of our island.

As for the origins of the hotel name, I wonder? It turns out SNOP is an anagram of Sophie and Olivier’s names, and they now refer to themselves as Mr and Mrs Snop. “We have a lot of fun with our guests,” Olivier continues.

“It’s our aim to offer a very personalised service, so that everyone feels at home. I know our guests appreciate that, which is great, as we want them to return again and again, and to keep discovering the endless things there are to love about Malta.” n The Snop House 23, Victory Street, Senglea, T: 2702 9324, E: contact@thesnophouse.com W: www.thesnophouse.com.mt

Photos Daniel Cilia ©The Snop House 2018

staircase, and has a balcony – three internal, and three overlooking the pretty street below.

Each suite is unique too, and has a theme all of its own. It invites the guest through the wink of an artistic eye, to discover some part of the history, culture, environment or traditions of the island. Beyond that, this is where local history and culture meet elegance, resulting in a unique hotel experience: high-end design, first class accommodation, and ultimate comfort, whatever the season or temperature. Other highlights include the delicious Continental breakfast, the inroom amenities, the fabulous beds and linen, the top-floor honesty bar stocked with local products, the original art, the beautiful terrace with its stunning view over the Grand Harbour, and the library downstairs, which is packed full of information on Senglea and the rest of Malta.

“We want our guests to really get to know the area while they are here,” Olivier says.

“So we try to impart as much knowledge as we can. The idea is to give city-breakers from all over the world a genuine experience of the island we call home – whether they are walking along the promenade here and stopping

74 STYLE HOME

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HOME Wonders 1. DINNER SETS Plate your creations on stylish and durable tableware produced from the finest porcelain and designed by Studio Levien for Costa Verde.

2. SLATE CHEESE BOARD Set on a luxurious circular slate base, the eye-catching design of the Nude cheese dome will make your cheese board even more spectacular. Moreover, the beautiful teardrop-style dome, made from hand-blown glass, allows air to circulate, while a small vent prevents food from sweating.

3. FONDUE SETS A great gift for any food lover, fondue sets allow for countless sweet and savoury recipes that require no fancy techniques to create… Just imagine all the delicious starters, mains and desserts you could make with one of these over the festive season!

All available from Petrolea, Valley Road, Msida, T: 2123 4501.

4. FOPPAPEDRETTI VALET Get organised with trouser presses and valet stands by Foppapedretti, which are practical, functional and come equipped with all the accessories needed to store your clothes tidily. The valet also features a tray for personal items, as well as hooks for hanging ties and belts, a convenient shoe holder base, and scratch-proof swivel castors to make it easy to move around.

5. PREMIERE GAS HEATER A high-performance heater, the Premiere is easy to use and portable, making it ideal for on-the-spot heating. Meanwhile, its safety shut-off feature in case of flame failure, a carbon monoxide sensor, durable gas valve and quality castor wheels make the Premiere extremely safe to use. This stylish heater also comes with pipe and regulator included, and has a five-year guarantee.

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6. CUTLERY Set the dining room table with beautiful flatware from the Morinox collection. Made from highquality 18/10 stainless steel, the cutlery is suitable for both casual and fine dining, and is designed to enrich even the most refined of tables.

7. HOSTESS HOT TRAYS The Hostess cordless hot tray keeps your food warm for up to one hour on just eight minutes of charge, meaning everyone can enjoy that delicious meal while it’s still piping hot.

8. GLASSWARE Push beyond the traditional boundaries of contemporary glassware with Nude Glass: a beautiful collection of lead-free crystal glassware for modern living.

9. PYREX SLOW COOK These enamelled, cast-iron casseroles are perfect for hot temperatures and for long-simmered cooking, ensuring every stew turns out perfectly. The Pyrex slow-cook is suitable for any type of hob (including induction) and can also be used in the oven thanks to its stainless steel knob.

STYLE HOME 77

Complete Picture Give your home personality with this beautiful wallpaper, priced at just ¤30 per roll and available in stock or on order.

Bright Spark This elegant bedside wall light includes an adjustable reading light, and is available in gold leaf with a black shade or in brushed nickel with a white shade. It comes complete with two separate switches on the base.

Striking Lighting The Nacho family of lights is retro in style but still modern, and available as a wall light, ceiling light, chandelier, table lamp, floor lamp, pendant-by-one or pendant-by-four.

PERFECTLY

SPOT ON

All available from Spot On Supplies Ltd, 102, Palm Street, Paola, T: 2166 8880.

E: info@spotonmalta.com

Table Top We love these table lamps, which are suitable as bedside lamps or for other areas, and are available in larger sizes to suit every room. Manufactured in Europe, with prices starting from as little at ¤23.

So Much Style The Napoli modernclassic collection of light fittings is available in a chrome or antique-look rust finish, and can be bought as chandeliers, ceiling lights or wall lights.

Lit Up These wall lights are functional and striking. They are available in white or grey, and thus match any design or décor.

The full collection is available in store.

The Right Price Browse the vast and innovative selection of acrylic modern and classic lighting fittings, all available at fantastic prices.

STYLE HOME 79

q Timeless Elegance These table lamps form part of an exceptional range of lamps at One Two One Interiors. The ceramic-base lamp with the tassel detail retails for ¤151.90, while the marble-base task lamp is available in various finishes and is priced at ¤79.90.

Side Style u Embellish your interiors with this set of two side tables in soft gold and neutral marble.

Priced at ¤195 for a set of two. q Smart, Stylish and Useful This stunning collection of clocks suits both classic and contemporary settings.

Backless and metal, they are 80cm in diameter and priced from ¤99.

GOING

ONE TWO ONE OPEN ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS DURING DECEMBER

Looking Glass Discover the very latest mirror designs – including gorgeous Venetian mirrors like this one – from ¤390.

AT CHRISTMAS

p Picture Perfect All sorts of stylish frames are available in various sizes and finishes at One Two One Interiors, and they will be cherished all year round. Prices from ¤23.90.

All available from One Two One Interiors, 21st September Avenue, Naxxar, T: 2142 2948/9; and Qui-Si-Sana Seafront, Sliema, T: 2132 3155/65, W: www.onetwoone.eu

q It’s The Details Add a touch of understated luxury with these gold-rimmed champagne and wine glasses. ¤69.90 for a set of eight.

Embroidered table runners are available from ¤26.90.

p Let’s Accessorise Stunning throws, cushions and coordinating readymade curtains in various fabrics and sizes are available from One Two One Interiors. This angora fur throw (130cm X 170cm) is priced from ¤69.90, the velvet cushions are from ¤15.90, and the studded armchair is ¤650.

STYLE HOME 81

HOMETRENDS Warming up your home with a real flame has never been easier than with the Chimneyless Gas Fireplaces and Gas Fire Inserts currently in stock at HomeTrends, Industrial Estate, San Gwann; and Mdina Road, Haz-Zebbug, T: 2144 5654, E: shop@hometrends.com.mt, W: www.hometrends.com.mt

GIO.BATTA DELIA Make your Christmas tree stand out with these beautiful bone china baubles made by Halcyon Days, a company that is worldrenowned for its stunning enamelled boxes.

A wide range of fine mugs starting from ¤35 is also available. Gio.Batta Delia. M: 9989 6286, E: pjdelia2@gmail.com, FB: Gio.Batta Delia – 1901

GIO.BATTA DELIA Adorn your table, walls and displays with beautifully hand-painted plates. Ranging from 15 to 30cm in diameter and with prices starting from ¤50, from Gio.Batta Delia. M: 9989 6286, E: pjdelia2@gmail.com, FB: Gio.Batta Delia – 1901

MAISON ET LUMIÈRE Made by hand in Turkey with craftsmanship that’s been handed down from generation to generation along the Silk Road, these silk-velvet cushions add that perfect touch of worldly elegance to your home. Maison et Lumière, 23, St Thomas Street, Luqa, W: www.maisonetlumiere.com

MAISON ET LUMIÈRE The Catalytic lamp is an effective room scent system that uses combustion to purify and perfume the air intensely and quickly.

Enriched by elegant shapes, precious decorations and sumptuous details, the Catalytic lamp is a truly exclusive piece of home décor. Maison et Lumière, 23, St Thomas Street, Luqa, W: www.maisonetlumiere.com

MG FIRELOGS Keep warm this winter with MG Firelogs’ top selection of oak, ash and birch quality firewood that comes in a variety of sizes.

MG Firelogs, D19 Midland Park, Burmarrard, M: 9989 2320, W: www.mgfirelogs.com

WINTER NEEDS

& LUXURIES

MAISON ET LUMIÈRE Fascinating and lovely, these amphoras were created through a natural process in the sea; making each completely unique.

They come in various shapes and sizes, and can be used both indoors and out.

Maison et Lumière, 23, St Thomas Street, Luqa, W: www. maisonetlumiere.com

MG FIRELOGS Natur Pellets are premium-quality stove-wood pellets from Austria renowned for clean burning with minimal maintenance.

Available from MG Firelogs, D19 Midland Park, Burmarrard, M: 9989 2320, W: www. mgfirelogs.com

GIO.BATTA DELIA Adorable hand-painted Herend porcelain animal figures made from the finest porcelain in various patterns.

A gift for the discerning starting from just ¤60.

Gio.Batta Delia. M: 9989 6286, E: pjdelia2@gmail.com, FB: Gio.Batta Delia – 1901

STYLE HOME 83

WinterUPDATE “Christmas is a time for giving, but choosing the right things to gift our loved ones is not always a straight-forward affair,” says designer MARISE PACE from Grey & Adler. “My secret is to buy things that I know will appeal to them but which I would want to keep if they were given to me!”

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Gifts & TREATS 1. Double Delights

Made in the UK using only the finest ingredients, these Alexia Peck Home natural-wax candles come in beautiful glassware with accompanying paperweights.

Each fragrance is inspired by iconic cities and regions from around the world, making them a perfect gift for the discerning.

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2. Golden Entertainment

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Christmas is a time for getting together, and this tea set from Sara Miller will definitely inspire you to do exactly that! Beautifully-crafted from luxurious materials, each piece features a charming bird design and is enhanced with 22ct gold.

3. Beautiful Comforts

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Each flower in this beautiful arrangement has been skilfully hand-crafted or given a special natural coating to make it look and feel just like the real thing.

Enclosed with your natural-touch flowers is a bottle of scented perfume, which you can spray directly onto the flowers to refresh and enhance their built-in, gel-infused fragrance. In other words, the flowers provide all the pleasure and none of the hassle.

4. Spiritual Liquids

A wonderful gift or a great first step into the world of whiskies, this handsome wooden box houses the elixir that will see its owner through the festive season and beyond!

5. Pretty Scents

These limited-edition candles are housed in powder pink glass vials with threedimensional designs. A stunning ornament for any bedroom or bathroom, all you’ll need to do is light the wick to unleash a scent so deep it will transport you to worlds beyond our own.

6. Understated Sparkle

Nothing makes people think of Christmas more than a beautiful spread on the festive dinner table. Add to that glamour with stunning dinnerware, like this unusual Celestial Collection dinner set, which is crafted from fine china and adorned with a striking star design.

6 7 7. Major Comebacks

From glasses to decanters and bowls to goblets, crystal’s always been a favourite on the dinner table. Now, after a few years of popularity decline, crystal is back with its signature intricate designs that add three-dimensional textures and help catch the light at every angle.

8. Colourful Concepts

Summer isn’t just a season, it’s a mood and this range of beautiful Sicilian ceramics will definitely take you back to our glorious Mediterranean summers…

What more could anyone want from a gift?

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84 STYLE HOME

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THINK OF You 1. Simple Comforts

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Add a simple-yet-luxurious touch to your sofa, armchair or bed with these brightlycoloured mohair throws.

Their sensual fibres will swathe you in a comforting touch whenever you need it.

2. Personal Luxuries

Available for men and women in classic white and six other colours, these dreamilysoft Schlossberg coshmere bathrobes are made from 100 per cent Supima cotton.

Perfect to luxuriate in at home after a long day’s work!

3. Downtime Beauties

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“Christmas is often about getting gifts for others but we shouldn’t forget to take care of ourselves and enjoy some of life’s daily and nightly pleasures,” says GABRIELLA ARCIDIACONO, the sales and marketing director for Boris Arcidiacono. “After all, when we’re well-rested, we feel, look and do better!”

Some sensations cannot be described and the feeling of comfort offered by Stressless® is one of them.

Now also available with a space-saving, integrated footstool, the recliner comes in a multitude of variations and sizes, allowing you to personalise it to your taste and needs.

4. Stunning Simplicities

Bed linen is more important than many would assume, especially since it’s the one layer that is directly touching you and your body while you sleep. Using cotton sateen to bring you the greatest and softest feel imaginable, the bed linen by Alexandre Turpault is also elegant and sophisticated.

5. Smart Protectors

The Billerbeck mattress pads and toppers don’t just protect your mattress, they also create the perfect sleeping climate by providing pleasant, soft-sleeping comfort throughout the year. My favourite is the Climatraum mattress topper, which regulates temperature and aids in moisture management.

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6. Nighttime Pleasures

To ensure a good night’s sleep you need a good pillow. Made from a TEMPUR® envelope containing small TEMPUR® micro-cushions, this pillow offers comfort and support no matter what position you sleep in.

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7. Luxurious Treats

Surrounding yourself with beautiful things that feel luxurious is a simple way of adding positivity to your life. One method for doing this is through the Nina Ricci Écume des Jours gift box, which comes with two hand towels, one bath towel, one guest towel and one wash glove, in soft, powdery hues.

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8. Restful Nights

A good quilt should cloak your body in warmth and comfort, which is why HEFEL has invented BodyFit quilting technology.

Through it, the seams smoothly wrap around your body, turning the quilt into a cocoon for a peaceful and refreshing sleep.

STYLE HOME 87

“Although the concept is a difficult one to translate, the best way to describe the Danish and Norwegian hygge is the idea of being cosy and content,” says MARCUS BONNICI, the managing director of JYSK. “Of course, there is no better time for hygge than at Christmas!”

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CHRISTMAS Hygge 1. Set the Tone

5. Think of Details

2. Set the Mood

6. Keep It Simple

Start that feeling of hygge from before you enter your home by decorating the outside with lights.

We’ve got everything from draping string lights to brightly-lit outdoor Christmas trees to add the perfect sparkle to greet you and bid you farewell!

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To create the feeling and ambience associated with hygge, decorate your home with Christmas and fairy lights. At JYSK, we have a large selection of indoor lights that will help you create that warm Christmas atmosphere we all love.

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3. Light It Up

To get into the proper Christmas spirit, update your home accessories and dinner table with Christmasthemed decorations. Textiles are also a part of this; and, from bright tablecloths to golden materials to wrap presents in, you’ll be spoilt for choice with our selection.

Minimalism is the signature of Scandinavian design and interiors, and that also applies to Christmas decorations. This wooden tree will add a bit of festive fun to any corner of your home without dramatically changing the décor.

7. Remember the Obvious

Bring cosiness inside your home with festive candles, candlesticks and lanterns…

Whether you opt for bright tealight holders or stylish lanterns – or something in between – it will be perfect for adding warmth and light this winter.

Santa Claus is one of the most recognisable symbols of Christmas; and one that automatically puts most of us in a good mood. To make the most of this, decorate your home with our extensive range of Santa teddies and plushies in various sizes and colours.

4. Entertain the Senses

8. Create Traditions

Textures play a big role in how our surroundings envelop our senses. Faux fur is, in fact, a beautiful way of literally feeling the warmth and it can easily be used as a throw on your sofa or bed.

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These beautiful Christmas baubles offer us the chance to escape into a different world. They are heirlooms that children will remember from their childhood and will think of fondly as they grow older. n

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STYLE LIVING 89

Open up to the joys of the Christmas Season at Valletta Waterfront From 1 December to 25 December, the historic Valletta Waterfront will take on a Christmas Village feel, with a mix of décor, music, food and activities related to this magical time.

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here is so much to look forward to at Valletta Waterfront this festive season.

A Christmas tree measuring over 35 feet high has been set up in the central part of the promenade. Adjacent to it you can find Santa’s House and his enchanted snow garden. A variety of free activities are planned: Christmas bands, children choirs, a traditional Maltese crib, stalls and more.

Santa can be found in his workshop and together with his helpers will be available for photo opportunities.

As throughout the rest of the year, on weekends and public holidays there will be children’s entertainment. Our little guests can enjoy free activities including balloon modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouring-ins, meet and greets with your all-time favourite characters, puppet shows, bouncy castles and more. Interactive season’s specials are planned including Stack ‘em!, Festoon Fun, A Bauble Mishap and more.

Guests can post their letter to Santa at a designated letterbox until 20 December, with a guaranteed response if a return postal address is provided.

The 12 catering outlets located along the Valletta Waterfront promenade provide a variety of dining experiences for any type of event or party. From a quick after-office drink

to an elaborate meal, Valletta Waterfront has that perfect venue, with a wide variety of menu options that can be customised to your taste and budget. Browse the shops for interesting gifts – from jewellery to handmade ceramics to local glass and more.

And the children’s school holidays are also covered: free children’s fun is available from 26 December through 28 December between 12.30pm and 4.30pm.

Welcome the New Year 2019 in style: entertainment for the old and young will be provided throughout the night on 31

December, with live bands and roaming free children’s animation. At the stroke of midnight, there will be an aerial fireworks display coupled with confetti on the Valletta Waterfront promenade, overlooking the historic port and fortifications. A DJ will take over with various classics and popular hits until the early hours.

This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the balmy Maltese winter weather – with inside seating and heated outdoor areas for colder days, while you join in the Christmas cheer and celebrations. n

www.vallettawaterfront.com/christmas

STYLE CUISINE 91

Christmas Comforts We simply adore this hearty food that will bring joy to any festive table!

Food inspired by the menus on offer over the festive season at Villa Corinthia, by EXECUTIVE CHEF STEFAN HOGAN, CHEF de PARTIE CLAIRE Giordimaina, AND PATISSIER MARK McBRIDE, FROM THE CORINTHIA PALACE HOTEL & SPA, ATTARD Props by JOINWELL, QORMI Styling and photography by TONIO LOMBARDI

ROAST PIGEON SALAD WITH BEETROOT RELISH Ingredients: 4 wood pigeons; vegetable oil; thyme. For Beetroot Relish: 300g cooked beetroot, finely diced; 50g shallots, finely chopped; 20ml sherry vinegar; 10ml oil; salt and pepper.

Method: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place a tray in it to heat up. Season the pigeon with salt and thyme. Heat a little oil in a frying pan over a medium heat and seal the pigeon in the pan until golden brown all over before transferring to the tray in the oven. Roast for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to rest. For the beetroot relish, mix the ingredients and allow to sit at room temperature; adjust seasoning to taste. Carve the pigeon meat off the bone before serving with the beetroot relish.

Our chefs also created warm spring rolls made with pigeon leg confit, red cabbage purée, beetroot juice, pickled daikon, beetroot gel and pickled shallot.

92 STYLE CUISINE

SALMON COULIBIAC Ingredients: 800g side of salmon; sugar; salt; two eggs, whisked; 2 sheets puff pastry (approx. 400g each); toppings of your choice.

Method: Liberally season the salmon with salt and sugar, and allow to sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture and achieve a better texture. Wash the salmon in iced water and pat dry. On the rolled-out pastry, place the salmon and top with thin layers of your chosen mixtures – our chefs used spinach, wild rice cooked with sautéed wild mushrooms and saffron risotto.

Brush the border with the beaten egg and top with the second puff pastry sheet. Gently press the edges and neaten with a crimper. Brush the top with egg wash and chill before cooking.

Heat the oven to 220°C and bake for 20 minutes before reducing the temperature to 190°C degrees and cooking for a further 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to rest. Slice and serve with your choice of vegetables and potatoes. Our chefs served this with dill sour cream.

STYLE CUISINE 95

CHARLOTTE RUSSE Ingredients: ladyfingers; fresh fruit; raspberry jelly.

For the Bavarois: 450ml full-fat milk; 6 egg yolks; 75g caster sugar; 7 gelatine leaves, soaked in cold water for 10 minutes; 200ml passion fruit purée; 350ml double cream.

Method: Preheat the oven to 190°C. Line a deep cake tin with baking parchment, and stand the ladyfingers vertically around the inside edge of the tin. To make the bavarois, pour the milk into a pan and heat until just under boiling point. Whisk the egg yolks and caster sugar together, pour over the hot milk, and whisk before adding the drained gelatine. Return the custard to the pan and cook gently until the mixture has thickened.

Transfer to a clean bowl and leave to cool slightly before folding in the passion fruit purée. Leave to cool completely. In a bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form and fold into the passion fruit bavarois. Spoon this into your baking tin lined with ladyfingers, cover with cling film, and chill. Pour the raspberry jelly over the surface of the set bavarois, and chill for a further three to four hours. When ready to serve, remove the Charlotte from the tin and place on a serving plate. Decorate with the fresh fruit. n Our chefs served a deconstructed version of the Charlotte Russe.

STYLE LIVING 97

EBM Fashion First, Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar

Sarah Zerafa's 100K Followers Celebration Event, Marina Club, Valletta Waterfront

Martin Petterson, Carina Camilleri, Debbie Cooper, Ron and Charles van Maarschalkerweerd Borg, Carlton Agius.

Kurt Bonsfield, Carlton Agius, Sarah Zerafa, Marco Parascandalo.

The Launch of the new FRANKS Campaign at their refurbished outlet, The Plaza, Sliema

Sarah Zerafa.

The Opening of the 'Saudade' Exhibition by Gabriel Buttigieg, Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta

papped!

IN STYLE

Justin Brincat, Blanka Bartosova.

Caroline Paris, Claire Abela.

Gabriel Buttigieg.

Private Viewing of Parallel Existences, Valletta Contemporary, Valletta

Toni Attard, Norbert Francis Attard, Joan Abela, Alex Attard, Joanna Delia.

Stephen Buhagiar, Mark Micallef, Alex Attard, David Attard.

Alex Attard, Joan Abela, Emanuel Buttigieg.

GasanZammit Motors Ltd Celebrates 90 Years of Ford in Malta, Grand Hotel Excelsior, Floriana

Mark Weingard, Louis Grech, Nathan Farrugia, Deirdre Farrugia.

Manfred Galea, Stefan Deguara, Carolyn Zammit, AndrĂŠ Spiteri, Brian Attard.

Ian Sultana, Karen Sultana, Sandra Camilleri, Joseph Camilleri.

98 STYLE LIVING

The Opening of the Charles & Keith Shop, Bay Street Shopping Complex, St Julian's

The Launch of Car-Sharing Project, GOTO, at the Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, Attard

Laura Jasenaite, Jo Caruana.

Caroline Paris, Marisa Grima.

Marilise Mifsud, Kim Vella.

The Launch of Korress in Malta, Villa Arrigo, San Pawl tat-Targa

Michael Mallia, Gil Laser, Geoffrey Debono, Bertrand Attard, Michael Debono.

Tamara Webb, Taryn Mamo Cefai.

Jenny Bee, Stella Cini, Victoria Rotchenkova.

The Opening of Sunday in Scotland, Valletta

Mario Xuereb, Elvio Di Battista.

Brian Grech, Caroline Abela, Iggy Fenech, Claire Mifsud, Carla Zahra.

Caroline Paris, Anna Marie Galea, Daniel Azzopardi.

Michael Debono, Therese Debono, Geoffrey Debono.

Staff Event at the New Charles & Ron Outlet, Minusthree, The Point Shopping Mall, Sliema

Sarah Micallef, Jo Caruana, Amer Mahoud, Joanna Delia.

Anna Marie Galea, Matthew Baldacchino.

Front: Carlton Agius, Charles van Maarschalkerweerd Borg, Brendon Vella, Back: Celine Micallef, Ron van Maarschalkerweerd Borg, Becky Mifsud Bonnici, Annaliz Borg.