i-on magazine | November 2019

WIN A LUXURY WATCH WORTH £1,350 His or hers timepiece by Hamilton & Inches THE ULTIMATE GIFTS Your Christmas shopping sorted BEAUTY WITH A CONSCIENCE Make your bathroom a plastic-free zone

EDINBURGH | GL A SGOW

LAID-BACK LUXE Effortless glamour for the party season

Presenting the world’s first collection of 22ct Scottish Gold, hand-crafted by Scotland’s première master jewellers.

HAMILTONANDINCHES.COM

Issue 166 / November 2019 CONTEMPORARY_SCOTLAND

CONTENTS

THE ULTIMATE GIFTS Your Christmas shopping sorted BEAUTY WITH A CONSCIENCE Make your bathroom a plastic-free zone

I-ON • THE WINTER ISSUE

in this mon th’s issue…

WIN A LUXURY WATCH WORTH £1,350 His or hers timepiece by Hamilton & Inches

EDINBURGH | GL A SGOW

06 i-on Events: The ticket to book now laingsuk.com

DIAMONDS . WATCHES . JEWELLERY

10 Ten Top Stories: What’s getting us talking this month template june.indd 2

Effortless glamour for the party season

11/10/2019 14:09:52

Cover: Not A DB Blazer by Smythe, £599, available at Jane Davidson

27 The Ultimate Gift Guide: Christmas wrapped up

Laura Wood, Director

LAID-BACK LUXE

NOVEMBER 2019 • ISSUE #166

08 Win a luxury watch from Hamilton & Inches

44 Laid-back Luxe: Glamorous looks for the party season 54 My Style: Model and entrepreneur Anna Freemantle-Zee on owning your style 66 Grand Getaway: The Ayrshire castle to to recharge and reconnect

This month, Laura’s all about…

68 Beauty Notes: Must-try products and treatments 72 On the Food Radar: Foodie finds, events and must-try menus 80 Best of Edinburgh: Blogger Siobhan Hewison on her favourite haunts 82 Insta-Insider: Edinburgh-based photographer Ellie Morag chooses her #top9

@HISTORYCOOLKIDS

ROSE PERFUME

“It’s come a long way since its sicklysweet days and I can’t get enough of the stuff, especially ones with notes of warmth and spice like Le Labo’s Rose 31. Great for men too – yes, really.” From £57 for 15ml, available at the George Street boutique, Edinburgh.

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

“The December issue of i-on goes to press at the end of the month and our festive celebrations commence with a team lunch at the brilliant The Honours restaurant. Any recommendations for drinks after?!”

“Churchill’s doctor’s note, the heart of a blue whale, extreme skiing, River and Joaquin Phoenix as kids… Just some of the things that have piqued my interest on this Instagram account recently.

Loving the randomness. Follow.”

Directors Jo Morris, Laura Wood Design Pepe Lebron, Sam Hinks Editor Nicky Howden Features Editor Carrie Mitchell Digital Content Editor Holly Tracey Account Director Amy Falconer Business Development Manager Amanda Southey Head of Photography Susie Lowe Contributors Ian McLaren, Lucy Pressland, Rachel Ross Published by Treacle Productions Ltd, @The Basement, 29-35b Hamilton Place, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH3 5BA, Email info@ionmagazine.co.uk, ionmagazine.co.uk, ionmembersclub.com All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of going to press but are subject to change. i-on magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. i-on magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication. i-on is a trademark of Treacle Productions. ©Treacle Productions Ltd 2019.

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I-ON EVENTS

I-ON READER EVENT

Exclusive shopping evening at Coach Handbags, drinks and goodie bags – just three good reasons to be at our Coach event on Friday 22 November i-on readers with a love of luxury handbags, rejoice. After work drinks just took on a whole new meaning on Friday 22 November with this exclusive invitation from New York modern luxury brand Coach. To celebrate the start of Christmas shopping season, the original American house of leather is hosting an after hours party and asking readers to join them for drinks and canapes and the chance to shop the latest collections. Even more exciting, you can expect a goodie bag with all purchases made, including a small leather gift, and just when the night couldn’t get any better, along comes a free prize draw and your chance to win a Coach dinky bag to the value of £295.

To be in with the chance to win, visit ion.ticketbud.com to reserve your place and we’ll see you there.

DETAILS

The Coach shopping event takes place from 7-9pm on Friday 22 November at the Multrees Walk store in Edinburgh. Spaces are very limited so RSVP at ion.ticketbud.com as soon as possible to reserve your spot.

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Pictured: Hadley Hobo bag, £350

GUESTS WILL HAVE THE CHANCE TO SHOP THE COLLECTION AND BE IN WITH THE CHANCE OF WINNING A COACH BAG TO THE VALUE OF £295

CHRISTMAS AT

£28

PER PERSON

THREE COURSE

BOOK TODAY

CHRISTMAS@CHOPHOUSESTEAK.CO.UK

CHOPHOUSESTEAK.CO.UK

FOLLOW US

I-ON PRIZES

WIN…

a luxury timepiece courtesy of Hamilton & Inches

T

his month we’ve teamed up with one of Scotland’s most prestigious watch specialists, Hamilton & Inches, to offer you the chance to win a ladies or gents Edinburgh Eighty-Seven wristwatch.

Assembled, regulated, tested and fitted by the craftsmen of the jewellery house in the capital, it’s a traditional dress watch which celebrates over 150 years of Hamilton & Inches and boasts the brand’s signature dial, alligator strap, brushed and polished stainless steel 32mm or 39mm case and Swiss Sellita movement.

TO ENTER For your chance to win The Edinburgh Eighty-Seven watch courtesy of Hamilton & Inches, visit ionmagazine.co.uk by noon on 18 November and leave your details. The winner will be notified by email and announced in the December edition of i-on.

Terms and conditions: Valid only for the Edinburgh Eighty Seven timepiece. Cannot be exchanged for store credit or another item. Winner must claim prize by 30 June 2020. Prize can be collected from Hamilton & Inches, Edinburgh, or special delivery can be arranged. For more information, visit hamiltonandinches.com.

Congratulations to last month’s winners, Raymond Howden and Sarah Hunter, who won private dining for six at Hotel du Vin Edinburgh and a £1,000 shopping spree at Whistles respectively. For more exclusive prizes, subscribe to the i-on newsletter at ionmagazine.co.uk.

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NOVEMBER IN T U O B A G IN K L WHAT WE’RE TA

DON’T MISS…

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Five exciting art events arrive in the city this month – get them in your diary now

Classical Edinburgh

Take a look through the lens of two architectural photographers working 50 years apart at Edinburgh City Art Centre’s new exhibition opening on 09 November. Using Edwin Smith’s black and white images published in seminal book The Making of Classical Edinburgh (1966) as a starting point, Colin McLean embarked on reshooting and re-interpreting the photographs to explore the changes that have taken place in the New Town over half a century. Runs until 08 March 2020; free admission. edinburghmuseums.org.uk

Leonardo da Vinci: A Life in Drawing

To mark the 500th anniversary of his death, 80 of da Vinci’s greatest drawings will go on display at The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse from 22 November, in the largest exhibition of the artist’s work ever to be seen in Scotland.

The drawings explore the full range of Leonardo’s passions from painting, sculpture and architecture to anatomy, engineering and botany giving a rare insight into the life of the Renaissance master. Runs until 15 March 2020; tickets £7.50. rct.uk

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The Open Studio

Taking place at Wasps Studios, Patriothall, Hamilton Place, Stockbridge from 29 November to 01 December, the Open Studio event features the work of Edinburgh-based artist Elaine Speirs, who has been shortlisted for The BP Portrait Award, the world’s most prestigious portrait painting competition which tours the Scottish National Portrait Gallery from December until March 2020. waspsstudios.org.uk

Paula Rego: Obedience and Defiance

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern Two) presents an ambitious retrospective of the iconic Portuguese artist exploring her career from the 1950s to 2012.

Rego’s work tackles controversial issues from António de Oliveira Salazar’s fascist regime, the 1997 referendum on legalising abortion in Portugal, the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 and, from 2009, female genital mutilation – all of which resonate strongly with contemporary feminist and political issues. Runs from 23 November to 19 April 2020, tickets £11.50. nationalgalleries.org

Edinburgh Art Fair

Scotland’s longest running modern and contemporary Art Fair returns to the Edinburgh Corn Exchange from 21 to 24 November with 60+ exhibiting galleries from around the world showcasing the work of their artists under one roof. Artwork in all mediums including paintings, original prints, photography, ceramics, sculpture and glassware is available to buy from £100 to £50,000.

There will also be free pop up workshops from the Edinburgh Art Shop for children and adults. Day tickets £4 in advance, £5 on the door. artedinburgh.com

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WHERE TO GET YOUR IX CULTURE F onth ok this m

The events to bo

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MUSIC

Radio 2 favourite Jack Savoretti brings his Singing to Strangers tour to the Usher Hall on Friday 15 November. The English-Italian singersongwriter has stormed the charts with his old school romantic tunes and his latest album has been the biggest yet, featuring co-writes with the likes of Kylie and Bob Dylan. Tickets available at usherhall.co.uk.

OPERA The opening show of Scottish Opera’s

2019/20 season, Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca, arrives in Edinburgh with a run at the Festival Theatre. A revival of the much-loved 1980 production by director Anthony Besch, the action is set in 1940s Rome, in the shadow of Mussolini’s tyrannical rule. It tells the story of a passionate and ill-fated love, played out against a backdrop of political corruption and intrigue.

Opens 14 November. For full dates and tickets, visit scottishopera.org.uk.

DRAMA Scotland’s best loved play The Steamie is back for a limited Hogmanay run at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro. Written and directed by Tony Roper (of Scotch & Rye fame), the Scottish theatre classic is an ode to the hard-working women of the 1950s and this revamped show promises even more songs, music and laughs, as well as a starry cast featuring awardwinning comedy duo The Dolls (Louise McCarthy and Gayle Telfer Stevens) and Still Game’s Harry Ward.

Opens 27 December. For full dates and tickets, visit thessehydro.com.

Photography: Robin Mitchell, James Glossop

FILM Screening the crème de la crème of

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French-language cinema in a spirit of friendship with filmmakers across Europe, the 27th edition of the French Film Festival UK runs until 15 December.

Highlights include this year’s Cannes hit Portrait of a Lady on Fire; music documentary Oh les filles! and Gaultier, Freak & Chic, a documentary on the French fashion icon. Screenings take place at select cinemas including the Dominion cinema, Edinburgh Filmhouse, Summerhall, Glasgow Film Theatre and The Grosvenor.

For full listings and tickets, visit frenchfilmfestival.org.

Beautiful quality clothing and accessories woven with stories of Cornwall

NOW OPEN 61 GEORGE STREET, EDINBURGH, EH2 2JG

01326 640075 seasaltcornwall.co.uk

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CAN CANNABIS REALLY CURE ALL?

Self-confessed cannabinoid geek Ian McLaren reveals the facts behind the ‘wonderdrug’ CBD

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W

hen it comes to cannabis, hysteria and misinformation are in full flow. The taboo plant formerly considered harmful is being hailed for its health benefits by the most unlikely users.

Yummy mummies on the High Street are buying CBD in Holland & Barrett, Kim Kardashian is throwing a CBD themed baby shower, sister Kourtney has launched her own CBD-infused beauty serum, and now Ed Sheeran is reportedly selling Cannabis Bier in his Notting Hill pub. Okay, so maybe Sheeran being a fan of cannabis isn’t so surprising but the fact that you can now order a pint spiked with the stuff is certainly another strong example of how CBD has gone miraculously mainstream.

So what’s all the fuss about? Is CBD really a miracle cure? And how do we make sure we’re buying the real deal and not falling victim to an overblown marketing campaign?

Let’s start with the science.

While CBD has been branded the superstar of the cannabinoid world, it is in fact just one of 113 cannabinoids found in cannabis - each of which interacts with and supports a network of receptors in our bodies called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is part of our body’s ability to achieve a healthy internal balance and when our body is under attack from bacteria, or when we are sick, there is a disruption in the body’s internal balance and it is the job of the ECS to return the body back to normal.

The ECS has been found to affect our defense and immune system strength, chemical and hormone production, mood and mental health, pain control, fertility, digestion, inflammation and much more.

It was discovered when scientists started research into why the cannabis plant had an effect on the human body (hence the name).

It was found that cannabinoids supported the ECS by attaching themselves to these ECS receptors and activating/blocking signals. In brief, CBD can have a dramatic impact on your physical and mental health by helping your body do its thing.

The problems arise when CBD oils, balms, pastes and pillowcases (ridiculous, I know) are associated with more health outcomes than is actually accurate. Let me make this clear - CBD products are not a

CBD CAN HAVE A DRAMATIC IMPACT ON YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH BY HELPING YOUR BODY DO ITS THING” wonder cure - it is not a pill you can take and your issues magically disappear.

Technically, CBD products are considered food supplements and, just like adding vitamins, coconut, or olive oil to your diet, can massively improve your health, so can cannabinoids.

We can find cannabinoids in plants (phytocannabinoids) and foods such as olives and flax seeds. We even produce our own cannabinoids including our own version of THC (the cannabinoid that makes you high) called Anandamide. The bottom line is that rather than splashing out on every celebrity-endorsed CBD-infused product that comes to the market, you should take CBD as nature intended - with a wide range of other cannabinoids plus everything else that makes the Hemp plant so amazing for your health. You can do this by choosing CBD products labelled ‘Raw’ or ‘Full-Spectrum’, which are also void of a load of chemicals which some developers have started throwing in for fun. Fuelling your body with the right stuff is undoubtedly good for you and CBD works - just do your own research and you will be immune to the fad.

Ian McLaren is co-owner of Edinburgh-based CBDiablo, an online shop selling organic, fullspectrum CBD oils and paste. Find out more at cbdiablo.co.uk.

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D, LOOK GOOR DO BETTE

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As Scotland becomes the first country to ban plastic cotton buds, we track down plastic-free products to replace everything else in your bathroom...

CONDITIONER KOHA Beauty’s vegan conditioner bar, £11, is a blend of oils and butters that leaves hair manageable, silky soft and beautifully scented with bergamot and berry. It might be small but the formula is super-concentrated so a little goes a long way. kohabeauty.co.uk

MOISTURISER The experts at Edinburgh Natural Skincare Company know their stuff, creating all-natural products full of nourishing ingredients. The Ultra Rich Anti Ageing Face Cream, £17.50, comes in a glass jar and just a small amount locks in moisture all day long. Buy online at edinburghskincare.com or visit the Cockburn Street store.

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SHAMPOO The latest launch from all-natural Scottish brand Siabann, this Juniper & Lime shampoo bar, £8.50, is formulated using a blend of castor oil, cocoa butter and coconut oil for a rich lather without artificial foaming agents or chemicals.

Packaged in a travel friendly tin, the bar can last as long as three bottles of shampoo. siabann.com

BODY CREAM Founded by Glasgow chemist Jo Chidley, Beauty Kitchen is on a mission to create the most effective, natural, sustainable beauty products in the world.

The Sustainables Organic Vegan Body Cream, £8, is supercharged with ingredients such as aloe vera and shea butter for soft skin from top to toe – and it comes in a refillable, aluminium bottle. beautykitchen.co.uk

CLEANSER This gentle Eucalyptus & Lavender cleansing balm, £27, from Kilmarnock brand White Rabbit Skincare comes in a nifty bamboo and aluminium tin. Simply massage a small amount onto dry skin and remove with a damp cloth. whiterabbitskincare.co.uk

STYLING New Edinburgh-based brand Moo Hair has launched a full range of luxury, natural hair products in chic glass packaging.

Our favourite is the Volumising Spray Mist, £22, which pumps up fine hair, leaving it bouncy and smelling amazing. moohair.com

MINaltD MENr is mIN h en’s mental he

Novembe . Here are three awareness month ok ur support and lo ways to show yo h alt he l ta en m after your own

JOIN MORUNNING

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Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the charity run by signing up for this year’s event in Holyrood Park on 09 November. With a 10k, 5k and 1.5k Mini MoRun, there’s something for every age and fitness level. Funds raised will go towards The Movember Foundation, the only charity tackling men’s health on a global scale, raising money and awareness for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. mo-running.com

jamieprimrose

ATTEND A HAPPINESS WORKSHOP

Scotland’s leading psychological service provider First Psychology Scotland is offering expert guidance to help you have a happier autumn with a series of workshops aimed at Understanding Happiness. The free workshops will be held in Edinburgh and Glasgow on 14 and 21 November respectively. Spaces are limited so reserve your space at firstpsychology.co.uk.

BE MORE MINDFUL

Learn how to become mentally fitter with the online mindfulness toolkit ThinkWell-LiveWell backed by The Naked Professor Ben Bidwell (pictured above). “Whatever type of man we are, we are also human and emotions are natural to us all,” says Ben. “ThinkWell-LiveWell has numerous programmes to help support you – including their Well In Mind programme, which focuses on mental agility, control of stress and habits.” Find out more thinkwell-livewell.com.

Enchanting Vistas

Captivating Old Town scenes & sunset skylines of Edinburgh

by Jamie Primrose, contemporary Scottish artist

Friday 8th – Saturday 16th November 2019 The Dundas Street Gallery, Edinburgh Monday – Friday, 11am – 6pm Saturday and Sunday, 11am – 5pm 6a Dundas Street, Edinburgh EH3 6HZ

“A prolific bestseller” The Herald

t: 0131 446 9510 m: 07947 243 418 e: mari@jamieprimrose.com

“Highly collectable”

“Well-known artist” The Times Scotland on Sunday

www.jamieprimrose.com

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CARB-LOADING 101 Our guide to putting on a few ‘insulating’ pounds this winter

Get festive with your bagels… From 01

December, you can get Christmas dinner crammed into a bagel at any one of Bross Bagels’ four shops (including the brand new Bruntsfield location). Go traditional with turkey and all the trimmings or try the vegan variety featuring herb-roasted butternut squash and pickled red cabbage. brossbagels.com

Eat endless pizza… ‘Thugslice’ at Civerinos Slice on Edinburgh’s Forrest Road offers unlimited slices of pizza with a cold beer or cocktail for just £10 every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9pm until midnight. civerinosslice.com

Enjoy the fattest sandwiches… Hidden in

a basement on Leith’s Portland Place, Albys ‘big hot sandwiches’ are created using fresh focaccia and packed with hearty fillings from beef short rib to spiced cauliflower. Open 12-10pm, Wednesday to Sunday. @albys_leith

Bring on the burgers… Glasgow burger supremos El Perro Negro have announced the launch date of their second venue so now you can find their award-winning burgers in the original Finnieston takeaway venue and a new Woodlands restaurant. el-perro-negro.com

Say yes to cake… Edinburgh’s favourite cakery

Lovecumbs is opening a new bakery and café on Morrison Street so you can get your sugar fix in Haymarket too.

Along with pastries and savouries, Nice Times bakery will sell a new range of cakes, including these ridiculously good chocolate and peanut butter sandwich cookies (pictured left). @nicetimesbakery

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FESTIVE GIF T EXPERIENCES Fine dining, elegant Afternoon Tea and experiential stays ROCCOFORTEHOTELS.COM/GIFTS

TIFUL WAY TO THE MOST BEAU CHRISTMAS N TO lly COUNTrsDareOW treats and we really, rea filled with pampering These calenda before they’re gone… want them. Get yours

Jo Malone London’s coveted calendar is back with a beautifully scented treat behind every door, including the much-loved Blackberry & Bay Cologne (9ml) and new additions such as Bronze Wood & Leather Cologne Intense (9ml). £320 at jomalone.co.uk.

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Perfect for lovers of luxurious skin and bodycare, Elemis 25 Days of Beauty includes bestselling heroes new arrivals and a full-size jar of their legendary Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. With products worth over £344, the calendar costs just £165 so that’s quite a saving you’re making. Exclusively available at elemis.com.

Penhaligon’s fans will be delighted with the brand’s first ever advent calendar which features a 30ml Halfeti Body & Hand Wash, Empressa Body & Hand Lotion and 10ml Cousin Matthew EDP among its many fragrant surprises. £350 at penhaligons.com.

Available to buy from 31 October, this year’s Marks & Spencer calendar is filled with own brand beauty treats as well as products from Nails Inc, Emma Hardie and This Works. It’s worth over £300 but could be yours for £40 when you spend £25 on clothing, home and beauty instore or online. marksandspencer.com

LIGHT NIGHT Taking the form of a book telling the Tree of Dreams true story, the Classic Advent Calendar from L’OCCITANE includes an Almond Milk Concentrate, Ultra Thirst-Quenching Gel and Intensive Hand Balm and more. £49 instore or online at uk.loccitane.com.

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It’s Christmas! Join the crowds to celebrate the start of the festive season with the switch on of the Christmas Lights. Taking place in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile on 16 November, from 3.30pm, and hosted by Forth 1’s Arlene Stuart, Light Night will feature the Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh’s community choir, a ‘flying’ visit from Santa and a spectacular pyrotechnics display at 5pm. Glasgow’s Christmas Lights Switch On in George Square takes place the following day on Sunday 17 November.

Eden Court, Inverness Fri 8 Nov 6pm Festival Theatre Edinburgh Mon 18 Nov 6pm scottishopera.org.uk # operanewbie

TOS C A Puccini

New to opera? Try it for ÂŁ5

Supported by The Scottish Opera Syndicate

Registered in Scotland Number SC037531 Scottish Charity Number SC019787

UN W R APPE D

Beacon at Port Edgar Marina Come and enjoy a stunning 20% discount during our annual Christmas shopping event between Friday 29 November and Sunday 1 December. Simply sign up to our free loyalty card on the day to receive your discount.

Our friends at Scotts Bar & Restaurant will be joining in the festivities by offering an exclusive lunch menu, so be sure to book a table in advance. www.beaconstores.co.uk www.scotts-southqueensferry.co.uk

Postgraduate Open Evening 20 November 2019, 5.30pm - 7.30pm Come along to find out about our range of postgraduate courses in areas of: Business, Media, Communication and Performing Arts; Education and Health.

Full-time, part-time, online and single module study options January 2020 starts available for some courses

www.qmu.ac.uk 22

RIDE TICKEfeTstiveTseO ason in style with Celebrate the ticket s new Multi-Day Edinburgh Tram

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E

dinburgh’s hugely popular Christmas celebrations kick off on 16 November bringing another spectacular festive season for all the family. From the Christmas Markets in East Princes Street Gardens to Santa’s Grotto at the Gyle Shopping Centre, there is so much to do around the city and we’ve found a great solution to help you see it all, and travel in style – The Edinburgh Trams Multi-Day ticket.

The online exclusive Multi-Day ticket offers unlimited travel across the whole tram route including journeys to and from Edinburgh Airport. The ticket comes in a three-day option at £14.50, four-day option at £17.50 and a five-day option at £20.50 (children’s tickets are also available). Perfect for spending a few days soaking up the festive atmosphere in the capital. For more information and to purchase tickets visit edinburghticket.com.

Edinburgh’s Christmas Photography @snapsbyshirin

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10 THE ALL-IN-ONE CHRISTMAS ATTRACTION Save yourself a few precious winter days at the one-stop shop for all things festive

d tre has been transforme Beecraigs Visitors’ Cen all for x tbo pos gic ma h elves, storytelling, a into Santa’s Grotto wit self who will be him n ma the and e, th Pol those letters to the Nor kids. dishing out gifts to the l through 1.5km illumination trai √ Admi re Lights Followbethe ing festive tak ath bre h wit zled daz will the forest where you ic sounds. effects and atmospher illuminations, special fai r As well as fun rides and √ En joy all the fun of the music stage so every a silent disco and a live face painting, there’s things. of it spir ily can get in the generation of the fam lls will offer lled wi ne Tempting stallow s, toffee √ Indulge in an oth erkmu ma rsh ma d ste -roa from fire and er an array of food and drin cid m war es, sag te to German sau apples and hot chocola mulled wine. trees will be wn, quality Christmas √ Bu y a tre e Locally-gro experience than er nic a It’s section of the park. available in a special the queues at Ikea. t ber from 3.30pm (las ly from 05 to 24 Decem ine onl ked boo The forest is open dai be can il Tra s for the Illumination entry 8.30pm). Ticket lts, £15; Children, £11 estiveforest.com. Adu igsf cra bee at e anc adv in ). (under threes enter free

√ Se e Sa nt a

W

hen it comes to planning family fun over the festive season, the options are endless – Santa’s grottos, Christmas markets, light shows, carol concerts, even that tree you still need to buy (and decorate). Thankfully a new Christmas attraction in West Lothian offers all of these in one.

Beecraigs Festive Forest is a winter wonderland inviting families to immerse themselves in seasonal sights, sounds and flavours. Located in the beautiful Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow, it’s open from 05 December until Christmas Eve. And, to make sure you tick off every one of the experiences, we’ve put together a handy to-do list…

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Tailors & Gentelman’s Outfitters since 1977 • •

• • •

Independent Family Business Specialists in made to measure tailoring using the finest quality fabrics including Holland & Sherry of Savile Row and Jhonstons of Elgin Cashmere Made to Measure suits from £595 Fabulous selection of ready to wear clothing Out of hours appointment service

gift vouchers are available

7 Drumsheugh Place, Edinburgh, eh3 7pt. tel: 0131 226 5586 tailorsedinburgh.co.uk

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Decorations at Garden Trading

FEATURES

THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE From stocking fillers to pampering treats and foodie finds, we’ve rounded up great gift ideas for everyone on your check list

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Perhaps the most right-on foodie pressie around, the Curry Lovers gift tin includes five expertly blended Indian spices, a 150page cookbook and a bespoke soy wax Chef’s candle to burn whilst cooking. You’re guaranteed a quick, authentic tasting and healthy curry every time and the products are gluten free, salt free and sugar free. £40, spicepots.com. *Order before 01 December for 20% off all products using code ‘ION’

2 1 Give the gift of relaxation with a Stobo Castle gift voucher (from £25).

Here, a half day spa experience starts from as little as £69, a full day from £99 (including a Relaxing Water massage and lunch) or an overnight stay from £159pppn, including meals and use of the world-class spa facilities.

To order, call 01721 725300 or visit stobocastle.co.uk.

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4 Hamilton & Inches is honoured to present the world’s first 22ct Scottish Gold fine jewellery collection, handcrafted by Hamilton & Inches’ master jewellers. Exuding warmth and lustre, Scottish gold is exceptionally beautiful. A precious thread of heritage and a moment in history to be treasured forever.

Hamilton & Inches, 87 George St, EH2 3EY, hamiltonandinches.com

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Treat your loved one to a fabulous stay in luxury accommodation with a Lateral City Apartments gift voucher.

Gorgeous apartments at Old Town Chambers and The Edinburgh Grand have everything you could need for that perfect stay in the city centre. lateralcity.com

5 So, the bottle, a collaboration between Johnnie Walker and the award-winning textile studio Timorous Beasties, is gorgeous enough to be the belle of any bar but the spirit inside is just as rare, containing handpicked whiskies from the four corners of Scotland to create a unique character and flavour of their own. Available at selected stockists from 01 December, RRP £235.

XMAS GIFT GUIDE

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6 This interactive gin tasting, £35pp, is led by One Square’s gin expert and includes four gins of your choice paired with recommended tonics, a full demonstration of the distillation process and a miniature bottle of One Square’s very own gin to take home. The perfect gift for gin lovers. Buy gift vouchers at onesquare.skchase.com. More info at onesquareedinburgh.co.uk/bar.

A perennial favourite, the new Aspinal of London Lottie collection is redressed for Christmas in a series of plush velvets.

Add a personal touch with embossing and engraving service to create a truly unique gift. £495. Visit in store 43 George Street, EH2 2HT.

8 Give the gift of Fingal this Christmas. From Afternoon Tea and evening supper to cocktails and overnight stays, there is a gift experience for everyone. Treat a loved one to Fingal, Scotland’s only luxury floating hotel. Port of Leith, Edinburgh, 0131 357 5000, fingal.co.uk.

9 This exquisite diamond ring, inspired by stars, moons and all things celestial, features delicate rays of white gold and diamonds exploding from a tapered tip like a cosmic ray. Set with 71 brilliant cut diamonds with a total carat weight of 1.40cts & 18ct white gold. Cosmic Diamond Starburst Ring, £5,295, exclusive to ROX and at rox.co.uk.

10 Epitome has everything for the festive season whether it’s a luxurious gift, a winter outfit, a stunning piece of cashmere by Cameron Taylor, or a special stocking filler.

Discover gifts and more in store or online at epitomeofedinburgh.com.

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XMAS GIFT GUIDE

12 Inspired by the shapes and colours of glacial ice, water and rocks, these new Arctic Stream earrings, £115, are the perfect winter gift this Christmas.

All Sheila Fleet jewellery is designed and made in Orkney. Tel: 01856 861203, sheilafleet.com.

11 Beautifully warm, lightweight and water repellent, you will be winter ready with the Kulan coat by Oska, £439. Also available in flannel grey at Oska 17 Stafford St, EH3 7BJ, and at uk.oska.com.

13 Handing out the same old cards? Support the National Galleries of Scotland and send a work of art. Scottish artist Jock McFadyen’s stunning oil painting of iconic Calton Hill in moonlight captures the magic of Edinburgh at Christmas, (10 cards) £6.99. Visit the Gallery shops or order online at nationalgalleries.org/shop.

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14 Give the gift of glowing skin; select from a number of results driven and luxurious bespoke treatments for the perfect gift.

Vouchers are available for monetary or treatment value in clinic or over the phone. The Source Clinic, 20 Morningside Rd, EH10 4DA, Tel: 01314474369, thesourceclinic.com.

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Top Glasgow hair salon Taylor Ferguson offers a wide range of hair and beauty gift voucher packages from £75. The “Time with Taylor” voucher, £95, is a guaranteed appointment with the man himself alongside an expert consultation, cut/blow dry and intensive conditioning treatment. 106 Bath St, G2 2EN, Tel: 0141 332 0397, taylorferguson.com

VOUCHERS FROM £50

Scotland’s only winner in the Sunday Times ‘The Best Hotels in the World’ 2019 archerfieldhouse.com

XMAS GIFT GUIDE

16 Looking for a gift for the golf fanatic in your life? The Archerfield Performance Centre is one of the finest golf centres in Europe. New from January 2020 is the indoor simulator with TrackMan technology, perfect for play and practice all year round. Vouchers from £50 at archerfieldgolfclub.com or email apc@archerfieldgolfclub.com.

17 A rare opportunity to treat a loved one to the event of a lifetime at Britannia’s Burns Supper on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 January 2020.

Champagne, canapes, a private tour, four course dinner and wine, £225 per person. Call 0131 555 8800 or visit royalyachtbritannia.co.uk.

18 This fabulous ski slogan cashmere from Chinti & Parker, £350, would make the most perfect apres ski jumper for the Christmas Holidays and is just one of the top knitwear labels at Frontiers Woman which also includes & Daughter, Baum und Pferdgarten, Folk, Jo Gordon and YMC. There is also an array of accessories from Green Thomas, Howlin’, Paul Smith, Neul, LF Markey and Sandqvist so you’re sure to find the perfect gift. 16B Stafford St, EH3 7AU, frontiers-woman.com.

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Family-owned Tom Coll Jewellery specialises in diamond jewellery and houses Scotland’s biggest selection of pre-owned Rolex watches. With an on-site workshop, their expert craftsmen create bespoke jewellery as well as engagement, wedding and civil partnership rings to suit taste and budget. Diamond rings from £1,000. 4th Floor, 34 Argyll Arcade Chambers, G2 8BD, tomcolljewellery.co.uk.

Give the gift of lashes this Christmas from the people who do the very best lash extensions in the business. Love Those Lashes has also just launched its first strip lash range starting from £6.50, loved by celebrities and make-up artists alike. Find them at 85 St George’s Road, Kelvingrove, G3 6JA or 192 Kilmarnock Road, G41 3PG. lovethoselashes.co.uk.

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GIVE IN TO TEMPTATION Visit for stylish new brands and a stunning Outlet makeover

GET UP TO

60%

OFF

YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS

The ultimate destination for fashion style, dining and leisure #affordableluxury livingston-designer-outlet.co.uk

Take Junction 3 off the M8 Motorway

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XMAS GIFT GUIDE

22 Treat a friend or loved one to a voucher for Fletcher’s Cottage Spa at Archerfield. With 12 luxurious treatment rooms, two bath huts, a marine steam, an aroma sauna, a rasul, Himalayan salt brick room and two relax areas, it truly is one of a kind in Scotland. Vouchers from £50, archerfieldhouse.com.

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Restoration Yard’s new hampers are sure to tick those tricky people off your list. From the Coffee Lovers’ Hampers (pictured) to Cheese Hampers, Chocolate Hampers and even Duke and Duchess Hampers, each is created bespoke for you. Click and collect in store. From £45 to £200. restorationyard.com.

The Treasure Cuff by Tada and Toy, £70, will have you green with envy. The perfect gift for the jewel lover in your life or as a Christmas treat to yourself. Simply slip the cuff onto your ear for a statement look. Available in Silver, Rose Gold and Gold at ALC, 61 Thistle Street, EH21DY, alceshop.com. Instagram: @alc_edinburgh

Inject a little originality and humour into the guy in your life’s grooming regime with some quality Mr Natty products, all sourced and produced in the UK and made naturally wherever possible. Frontiers Man is stocking a range of items from shipwreck soap, shower gel and shaving products to small gift packs. Prices from £6 to £35. 18 Stafford St, EH3 7BD, frontiers-man.com.

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25 For an unforgettable dining experience, gift vouchers for Fazenda are available in denominations of £25 up to £200. They’re the perfect pressie for carnivores who love the best cooked meats and finest wines. Order by noon on 17 December to guarantee delivery by Christmas. For more about the December menu this festive season and how to book visit fazenda.co.uk.

ld” or .”

W K the U. in the 2019 a Sp a in rds ide n Sp Awa s y o r nt ati pa ou stin ry S C u e t es D ux “B Best rld L “ o W

The Perfect Christmas Present

The Gift Voucher

www.stobocastle.co.uk Tel: 01721 725300 reservations@stobocastle.co.uk Stobo Castle Health Spa, Stobo, Peeblesshire EH45 8NY

Half Day Visit Including: Lunch or Afternoon Tea From £69 Revive Spa Day Including: Relaxing Water Massage & Lunch From £99

ROWEN EVENTS LTD IN ASSOCIATION WITH PARTY AT LTD PRESENT

BEECRAIGS COUNTRY PARK

WWW.BEECRAIGSFESTIVEFOREST.COM

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XMAS GIFT GUIDE

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26 Gleneagles’ Hampers are beautiful boxes of delights. Available in four sizes (£95 - £950), these festive hampers bring together a luxurious selection of fine foods from the Gleneagles & Co artisan range – including delicious shortbread, handmade chocolate and jams made with local ingredients – as well as other festive favourites like Christmas pudding, crafted by the hotel’s pastry chefs, and the Gleneagles 2019 Christmas bauble. The Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder, Perthshire, PH3 1NF, shop.gleneagles.com/collections/ featured-fine-foods/products/christmas-hampers

Celebrate the festive season with great food and wine. Enjoy parties with style or celebrate a special day with family, friends or colleagues in the atmospheric Bistro du Vin and unique private dining rooms.

It’s all covered at Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh, 11 Bristo Pl, EH1 1EZ. For Christmas enquiries or to book, call 0131 247 4905 or visit hotelduvin.com/Edinburgh.

29 28 The gift of glasses now fits everyone on your list. The IOLLA Christmas gift card comes wrapped in a festive sleeve accompanied by a custom acetate keyring. Pick yours up in-store at Stockbridge, Edinburgh, Finnieston, Glasgow, Glasgow City Centre or order online at iolla.com (free shipping available).

Spa vouchers from Zen Lifestyle are always a welcome and versatile gift idea. They can be used for a wide range of spa and beauty treatments at Zen’s two luxurious city centre salons in Edinburgh.

The business has recently been awarded UK Salon of the Year 2019 so you are sure to receive a special welcome. Prices from £25. Purchase online, by phone, or in salon. Zen-Lifestyle.com; 0131 477 3535.

30 The Kanken Art is a special edition of the classic Fjällräven Backpack. Featuring a nature theme and made using heavier material, this is the ideal Christmas gift for any nature lover. Pick yours up for £89.95 at Nordic Outdoor, Frederick Street and Bruntsfield. nordicoutdoor. co.uk/fjallraven-kanken-art.html

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XMAS GIFT GUIDE

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The Christmas exhibition at The Torrance Gallery features over 30 top artists, including three fabulous Featured Artists; Helen Tabor, Lisette Degioanni and Liz Cameron.

The gallery is hung ‘salonstyle’ with over 100 paintings, covering all sorts of subjects, mediums and prices; an exciting array to feast the eyes upon. The Torrance Gallery, 36 Dundas St, EH3 6JN, Tel: 0131 556 6366 mail@torrancegallery.co.uk, torrancegallery.co.uk.

31 Add a little sugar and spice with all things nice at Biscuit Clothing. So why not fill your stockings with Part Two Sparkly Socks, £8.95, available online at www.biscuit.clothing and in the Edinburgh stores at 22 Thistle Street and in 132 Bruntsfield Place. @biscuitclothing For a gift that keeps on giving, make a difference by buying a Vesta Bar & Kitchen gift voucher. With an added donation to Vesta’s partner, Social Bite, you’ll be helping buy a hot meal for someone experiencing homelessness.

To order, email info@vestaedinburgh.co.uk or call 0131 220 0773.

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The Paper Tiger Auld Reekie scented soy wax candles, £6.99 to £19.99, are 100 per cent natural and hand poured in Scotland.

They contain a blend of cedarwood, cinnamon, clove and orange and are a wonderful way to celebrate Edinburgh. papertiger.co.uk/scented-candles

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From luxury lifestyle brand L’Objet, this stunning Leopard candle features an intoxicating pink Champagne fragrance and comes in a fine handcrafted Limoges porcelain lidded vessel, with a delicate tiger figure and 24 carat gold plating. It’s pure heaven for any candle connoisseur and comes in a luxury presentation box. £115 from padlifestyle.com.

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BRANDS

XACUS JOHN SMEDLEY MAC JEANS CIRCOLO PEREGRINE DIVERSO LONDON DUNO SECRID VNECK MATINIQUE OLIVER SWEENEY AND MORE…

16a Stafford Street, Edinburgh, EH3 7AU, 0131 225 8119

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XMAS GIFT GUIDE

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36 As far as presents go, we love a gift card for our favourite restaurant. So a gift card from Chop House is always a good idea. The best cuts of meat, chargrilled to perfection, and a cracking wine and cocktail list… Now just to decide who to take with us as Guest of Honour. chophousesteak.co.uk

Add a little ‘ooh la la’ to your festive gift giving with a French-inspired afternoon tea at Damm27.

Or if lobster is more your thing, they serve an indulgent lobster dinner for two with wine on Tuesday nights. Vouchers are available for both at this super-stylish bar bistrot on Edinburgh’s Southside. damm27. vouchercart.com/app/.

Damm27, 27 Causewayside, EH9 1QF, Tel: 0131 667 6693.

38 Stuck for the ideal gift? Then a Livingston Designer Outlet Gift Card is the perfect solution. They can be loaded with any amount from £5 to £250 and are accepted in the majority of stores.

Purchase from Guest Services or online at livingstondesigner-outlet .co.uk.

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39 Bored of gin? Get your hands on Escubac, £30, the juniper-free botanical spirit from Edinburgh-based distillery Sweetdram. Mixed with tonic, it’s an exciting, seasonal twist on your standard G&T. Available to buy at sweetdram.com along with their equally delicious Smoked Spiced Rum and Whisky Amaro.

Everyone loves a tin of Quality Street at Christmas, don’t they?

But the pop-up Quality Street shops in John Lewis & Partners Edinburgh or Glasgow take the gift of chocolate giving one step further with personalised tins, filled with all your favourite flavours. Choose your favourites and personalise the 1.2kg tin for £15.

Tis the season to party This year, make your festive celebration a night to remember. From office Christmas parties to get-togethers with friends, enjoy Prosecco on arrival and a three-course festive feast full of seasonal favourites. Party into the small hours to the sound of a live DJ playing the latest tunes and dance-floor hits and capture all the fun of the evening in our photobooth. We’ll even keep you energised with a midnight snack.

6th, 7th, 13th, 14th and 20th December | 49.95 per person To book your ticket please contact the Festive Co-ordinator.

T: +44 (0)131 221 6491 | festive.sheratongrand@sheraton.com www.sheratonedinburgh.co.uk

XMAS GIFT GUIDE

41 Two of our favourite things; ginger and gin in a bottle. A new spirits company, Bright Spirits, has just launched its first range of awardwinning gins; Roots, Peels and Pips, £36.95 per 70cl bottle. Using only natural ingredients with no added syrups, additives or short cuts, the result is three stunning gins squeezed full of real flavor- berries, citrus or the gorgeously warming ginger. bright-spirits.com.

42 We’re loving the pearl jewellery at orelia.co.uk, for the price point and its fashion forwardness. This chain necklace is only £28 so it’s great as a gift for girl pals, sisters or even when you’re upping the Secret Santa game.

43 For women, men and kids, the new Supercharged Backpack, £70, by award-winning fashion brand Scamp and Dude, is a winner. Leopard and lightning print, superpower button and ‘A superhero has my back’ slogan are all included. Available at scampanddude.com

44 Boys and girls will love the inspiring stories in this hardback book… and so will you. It’s not a new concept but the selected characters are modern, interesting and inspirational. Great bedtime reading that the whole family will enjoy covering topics like transgender, dyspraxia and autism.

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45 It’s beginning to smell a lot like Christmas… Give the gift of calm with a NEOM Christmas Wish candle made from a fresh and vibrant blend of 13 pure essential oils including mandarin, cinnamon and tonka bean.

Three wick candle, £46, at John Lewis and Zen Lifestyle.

THE HOME OF DESIGNER BRANDS IN THE HEART OF EDINBURGH THE VERY ESSENCE OF LUXURY SHOPPING AND HOME TO E XC LUS I V E FAS H I O N AND LIFESTYLE BRANDS. HARVEY NICHOLS, MAX MARA, M U L B E R RY, LO U I S V U I T TO N , B U R B E R RY, B O S S , JOHNSTONS OF ELGIN AND MORE.

MULTREESWALK • WWW.MULTREESWALK.CO.UK • ST. ANDREW SQUARE, EDINBURGH EH1 3DQ

e x u l

LAID-BACK To celebrate the legendary boutique’s 50th birthday, Jane Davidson has put together four effortlessly glamorous looks for the party season

I

t’s been five decades since the original Jane Davidson boutique opened its doors in the Grassmarket area of Edinburgh. Since then, its immaculately curated selection of designer clothes has garnered countless loyal fans in the capital and far beyond. Now based in Thistle Street and helmed by Jane’s daughter, Sarah Murray, the boutique is still the destination for glitz and glamour. As the team celebrates its 50th Christmas season, Sarah Murray takes some time out to pass on her styling tips for a glossy, glamorous party look…

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FASHION

GO FOR GOLD

“To celebrate our Golden Anniversary, this Roland Mouret dress exhumes elegance fit for the occasion. It’s a classic piece that epitomises everything Mouret represents; beautiful tailoring, femininity and luxury.”

Roland Mouret Bradon gold dress, £1,795

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FEATURES

UPDATE YOUR FLORALS

“Deep florals illustrate this autumn/winter’s twist on last season’s lighter look while the jumpsuit embodies a wonderful combination of relaxed style, worn with a strappy heel to create an effortlessly chic look.”

Beulah Karima blue wrap jumpsuit, £495

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FASHION

EMBRACE EMBELLISHMENT

“Sequins, feathers, you name it, now is the time to have fun with fashion. This Huishan Zhang showpiece is guaranteed to turn heads.”

Huishan Zhang Alma silver top, £895

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FEATURES HAVE FUN WITH COLOUR

“Mary Katrantzou’s love for bold colour is emphasised in this autumnal outfit which is the perfect day to night ensemble. The exaggerated embellished knit sweater contrasts elegantly with the lightweight pleated skirt.”

Lizzie knit, £595, and Fade skirt, £890, both Mary Katrantzou

Photography Rachel Ross Model Flo Millar at Colours Styling Lucy Pressland

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Jane Davidson, 52 Thistle St, EH2 1EN. 0131 225 3280, janedavidson.co.uk

A.P.C. Chloe Stora Common Projects Danner Engineered Garments Grenson Masscob Mass Norse Projects orSlow Tricker’s Veja

Exclusive cashmere lounge with Cameron taylor*

EPITOMEOFEDINBURGH.COM

Scandinavian Outdoor Clothing & Equipment 23 Frederick Street 20 Bruntsfield Place

www.nordicoutdoor.co.uk

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GETTING HITCHED?

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect dress, Rachel Scott Couture’s Bridal Styling Evening at The Balmoral Hotel on 14 November (6pm – 8pm) will offer inspiration from designers including Suzanne Neville, Kate Halfpenny and Alice Temperley, and styling guidance to help you look the best on your big day. rachelscottcouture.co.uk

TH E

DROP

GIFTS GALORE

For a treasure trove of unique design, check out the new look shop at the Scottish National Gallery on the Mound. More than double in size and accessible from East Princes Street Gardens, the store stocks fashion accessories featuring artful prints, Scottish crafts and locally-designed jewellery. nationalgalleries.org

YOUR NEED-TO-KNOW FASHION NEWS

BRAND OF THE MONTH SEASALT

WHAT IS IT? A Cornish clothing and accessories company combining hand-crafted prints and distinctive colour palettes with relaxed silhouettes.

WHERE DO YOU GET IT? In the shiny new store at 61 George Street, Edinburgh.

WHY WE RATE IT...

A modern brand but with real heritage; the Seasalt story began in 1981 when the Chadwick family bought a shop in Penzance selling traditional workwear to local farmers, fishermen and artists. These days, they have their own in-house team of fashion and textile designers, fine artists and illustrators who take inspiration from the creative, coastal community. Wearability is a priority and they offer a wide choice of shapes, fits and lengths, including a petite range, sizes up to 28 and Easy On styles, designed to help women who find dressing difficult.

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#FollowFriday

@mrphilgreen

The Global Head of Personal Shopping at net-a-porter lives a stylish life jetting between London, LA, Glasgow and lots of places in between. Check him out for classic style and smart tailoring.

FASHION

I-ON LOVES…

…this super-stylish teal croc bag from the new party season collection at Whistles. It’s £79 full price but you can get 20% off this (and all other full-price items) at our exclusive reader events in the Glasgow and Edinburgh stores on the evening of Wednesday 13 November. Visit ion.ticketbud.com to reserve your free ticket now.

COOL COLLAB

Scottish craft brewer Innis & Gunn has joined forces with four like-minded contemporary lifestyle brands to create Project Ampersand, which celebrates the story of its flagship bourbon barrel-aged beer ‘The Original’. The first two products launched come from Glasgow based design studio Instrmnt, who have created a limited edition Swiss-quartz watch inspired by elements of The Original’s brewing process; and menswear designer Kestin Hare, who has created the Arobois Jacket, inspired by the workers at the oak ageing facility who produce the barrel pieces used to create The Original. Find the wristwatch online at instrmnt.co.uk. The Arbois Jacket is available exclusively from The Cruiser Store, Customs Warf, Edinburgh and online at kestinhare.com.

FIVE MINUTES WITH…

SARAH CLYDE

We grabbed a quick chat with the founder of Edinburgh based clothing brand Le Tee Paris Where do you find inspiration?

I created the brand when I was living in Paris (we relocated back here for my husband’s work last year). It’s such an inspirational and beautiful city, I used to love people watching, and seeing what Parisian women wore in their everyday lives. The French have a great sense of style and I think a lot of it comes from investing in well-cut classic clothing.

Who are your style icons? I love the classic looks of Audrey Hepburn and Coco Channel. They always looked so well put together. And I love some of the old photos of Bridget Bardot wearing simple but well-cut crewneck jumpers and tee-shirts.

Biggest accomplishment to date? Selling legendary fashion designer Betty Jackson one of our Breton tops face to face, she was absolutely lovely.

Where can people find your designs? We sell online through our website leteeparis.com and have a small selection at Heart and Sole in North Berwick.

Follow on Instagram @leteeparis

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The shopping destination that has it ALL With a glamorous new look and a host of new brands, it’s time to revisit Livingston Designer Outlet

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SPONSORED FEATURE

W

ith over 80 brands, restaurants and cafés, there’s a lot to love about the recently refurbished Livingston Designer Outlet. It’s Scotland’s largest designer outlet and home to some of the most iconic international fashion brands, including Levi’s, Barbour, Fred Perry, Ted Baker and high-street favourites Gap, French Connection and Kurt Geiger. The Outlet has also recently welcomed popular luxury beauty, bath and body brand Molton Brown and the incredible Osprey London will open very soon.

The homeware offering is second to none with only the best kitchen brands like Le Creuset, Denby and Pro Cook to answer all your cooking needs. Brands for the bedroom, including Tempur, have specialised teams to make sure you have everything you need for the perfect night’s sleep.

And there’s more. From an eight-screen digital Vue Cinema to the Paradise Island Adventure Golf – with two 18-hole adventure golf courses set amidst a tropical paradise – there’s something to keep the whole family entertained. The food offering at the Outlet is also impressive with delicious Italian dishes at Prezzo, round the world cuisine at Hot Flame and only the best cafe offerings.

The much-anticipated new chicken offer, Tiago, is also coming soon.

Livingston Designer Outlet is the perfect destination to explore with family and friends, relax and discover your next treasures. To find out more, call 01506 423600 or visit livingston-designer-outlet.co.uk.

*WIN… Fancy a shopping spree at the newly furbished Livingston Designer Outlet?

For your chance to win a £250 shopping voucher to spend at the outlet visit ionmagazine.co.uk by noon on 18 November 2019. Terms and conditions apply.

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FEATURES

MYSTYLE

Anna Freemantle-Zee The model and entrepreneur on slow fashion, owning your style and investing in an oversized coat

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN I was born in Holland (Broek in Waterland) and left home when I was 17 to explore the world. I moved to London for work, got scouted, joined my first agency and then moved onto Models 1. I have been lucky enough to travel across the globe with my modelling career and whilst working with all these wonderful people, I got the urge to create something of my own; the Edinburgh International Fashion Festival which I ran for seven years. I have now joined the team at Splendid Events and work as the muse for couturier Iris van Herpen.

MY SIGNATURE LOOK I love a good, fitted tuxedo suit in royal blue or black, it’s quite masculine but very much with a feminine/ womanly edge to it. I like to go for cigarette trousers and combine them with high heeled shoes and just a bra under the jacket.

Mariam Al Sibai boucle wool-blend coat £830, Harvey Nichols

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WARDROBE MUST-HAVES A great coat and good shoes make an outfit. The best coats are oversized in wool or cashmere with a great collar, and mostly in a neutral colour such as navy blue, black or camel.

Shoe wise, everyone needs a pair of over-the-knee boots, great trainers for casual wear, and a killer pair of stilettos.

STYLE ICONS I admire people who know how to carry something off effortlessly – women like Stella Tennant and Tilda Swinton who have their own individual look and deliver it with confidence.

WHERE TO SHOP It’s all about quality and craftsmanship these days. I believe people should start consuming more sustainably and invest in a proper piece rather than opting for fast, frequent impulse buys. I’m a fan of second hand shopping or passing things on when you don’t need them any longer. My top tip would be to regularly take a stroll through Stockbridge which is full of charity shops - you’ll soon fall on your lucky find.

OSKA / ISCHIKO 17 Stafford St Edinburgh EH3 7BJ T +44 1316 081179 Shop online uk.oska.com

INTERIORS

FESTIVE SHOP

Start your Christmas shopping early at Jeffreys Interiors Festive Shopping Evening on 14 November.

From 5 - 8pm, you can enjoy fizz, browse a gorgeous Christmas collection of decorative items and 10% per cent discount on the night.

Jeffreys Interiors, 8 North West Circus Pl, jeffreys-interiors.co.uk.

Narcissus

‘TIS THE SEASON TO DIY HOM E

REPORT Interiors news and what to buy now

Get festive at one of these wreath-making workshops in Edinburgh For a modern look…

Join Narcissus Flower School on 27 November or 04 December to create a wreath with a difference - asymmetric, monochromatic or glittering, it’s a chance to let your imagination run wild. Classes cost £95, including all materials and flowers, mulled wine and a spot of food. narcissusflowers.co.uk For a more traditional style…

Craigie Farm is also running Christmas Wreath making classes with Flowers by Isla on 03 and 05 December at 6.30pm - 9.30pm. They’ll provide you with a selection of greenery and foliage, wire ring and all the basic materials. Places cost £50. craigies.co.uk

MEET THE MAKERS

Spot Design Market is back in Southside Glasgow on 16 November with a special Winter Edit celebrating another set of fantastic designers. Taking place at Queens Park Bowling Green, 11am - 4pm, expect high end ceramics, textiles, homewares, plants and flowers, as well as hands on workshops with local Glasgow based designers. spotdesignmarket.co.uk

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For something completely different…

Glasgow plant specialists Little Wild Things are coming to We Make Edinburgh to host a living wreath-making workshop on 22 November. Each wreath will feature a selection of mini succulents bedded into lush moss. Places cost £46, including all materials plus tea, coffee and mince pies. eventbrite.co.uk

Surround yourself with historical elegance Majestic elevations with far reaching views across Edinburgh

Exceptional, multi-award winning conversion

Live within stylish homes designed for modern living Elegant specification

Bright, modern living areas

Embrace a refreshing, active lifestyle

Private central courtyard on your doorstep.

Stunning 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments & penthouses

£415,000 TO £1,695,000 Prices correct at time of publication and are subject to change.

Meandering River Leith and walks close by

0131 341 5088 | cityandcountry.co.uk Open daily 10am to 5pm WEST COATES EDINBURGH EH12 5FA

GET THE LOOK

Create a gorgeous gender-neutral nursery with these expert tips from Renn Nesmith of Jeffreys Interiors

Think outside the cot

When it comes to nursery furniture, there are more options out there than you might think.

For something a little more interesting than the usual white painted pieces, pay a visit to our new Jeffreys Interior Junior space within the Stockbridge showroom. We have access to a variety of original and stylish pieces from cots and changing tables to nursing chairs and wardrobes.

Go for bold wallpaper

Encourage your child’s sense of fun and adventure with a statement wallpaper.

We’ve used Palmeral by House of Hackney to enhance the jungle feel in our new Jeffreys Interiors Junior showroom, which also houses books of children’s fabric and wallpaper for visitors to browse and make their own choices.

Cot, £1,299. Soft white throw with pom poms, £99. Blush Icelandic yarn blanket, £109. Large ‘Sunset’ cushion by Elitis, £149. Zebra ‘Lost World’ cushion by Emma J Shipley, £95. Cuddly bunny,£12.Canopy made from Villa Nova Bugs sheer fabric, £55 per metre. Palmeral wallpaper by House of Hackney, £185 per roll. White Rhino stool, £299

Add fun accessories

Our animal-themed accessories are sure to raise a smile from the mounted knitted elephant head, to the safari stools – there are pandas, rhinos and giraffes available, just get your little one to choose their favourite.

Have pink and blue

Most modern parents are steering away from pink or blue nurseries but that doesn’t mean you have to veto the colours altogether.

If your child likes one or the other, let them.

Or simply have a touch of both.

Crewelwork Jungle cushion, £49

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INTERIORS

Choose tactile fabrics

For soft furnishings, keep things interesting with tactile fabrics that feel as good as they look. Layer up the cot with cushions and throws to keep your wee one cosy and mix up textures around the room with faux fur, heavy knits, and crewelwork cushions or rugs which come in playful bright prints.

Create a cosy nook

Kids love a tent to hideaway in so give them their very own by hanging a canopy in one corner of their room and filling it with cushions. Ours features a leopard print fabric

by Ian Sanderson on the outside with an enchanting illustrated safari fabric by Andrew Martin on the inside – but we can make these to any specification. Pop in and we’ll talk you through the options.

All items available at Jeffreys Interiors. For more information or advice on your own design project, pop into the Stockbridge showroom, call 0131 247 8010 or visit jeffreys-interiors.co.uk.

Canopy made from Ian Sanderson ‘Savannah’ fabric, £29 per metre,and Andrew Martin ‘Noah’ fabric, £67 per metre.

Large ‘Sunset’ cushion by Elitis, £149. Savannah Rattan Stool, £99. Modular Shelving Unit, £159. Grey unicorn blanket, £59.

Mustard zebra blankets, £69each.Bunny, as before. Panda stool, £299.Suzani Kilimbug rug, £565

Knitted Nelly elephant, £125

Converse money boxes, £15 each

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i-on Homes Be inspired by the beautiful Dunbar home of rug designer Wendy Morrison in an exclusive extract from Rockett St George: Extraordinary Interiors in Colour

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INTERIORS

EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK THERE IS DETAIL, DESIGN AND DECORATION; NO SURFACE HAS BEEN NEGLECTED.”

Styling: Wilma Custers Photography: Ivar Janssen

C

olourful maximalism are the words that spring to mind when you enter Wendy and Gregor’s home.

Packed with bold colour, playful pattern and tantalising textures, it sets the stage for plenty of interior drama. What is most noticeable here is Wendy’s amazing talent for layering pattern and combining it with vintage art and quirky accessories. Somehow she manages to create a sense of visual richness that’s never chaotic or overpowering.

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INTERIORS

Based in Dunbar in East Lothian, Wendy, Gregor and family live in an old Georgian farmhouse, a twominute walk from the beach and just moments from the town centre. The house was designed giving careful consideration as to the position of the sun throughout the day (perhaps this is where Wendy’s fascination with light comes in!), and every room is flooded with generous servings of natural light. The L-shaped house has a southwesterly aspect, so it enjoys the morning sun in the snug and midday sun throughout the house, while the evening sun pours into the living room. Wendy says her favourite spot is the snug; it’s cosy and feels like a bit of a hideaway, albeit a very glamorous one.

The whole house has a sense of grandeur, with huge windows, elegant mouldings and, of course, Wendy’s vivid colour scheme. Each room has its own wow factor, so much so that we wandered from one to the next gasping in delight. Wendy’s style is very much her own and it made us smile to see it. One thing is for certain – she has torn up the interior design rule book and thrown it away!

Fashion and textile designer Wendy modestly describes her interior style as homely, saying, ‘It’s the people you share your home with that are really the most precious.’

However, a look around her house reveals a remarkably skilled and self-assured eye at work, confidently putting together multiple layers of colourful pattern, texture,

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THE SEASON FOR

MILANO DINING TABLE, FROM FROM £1,189 I ADELAIDE CHAIR, FROM £559

SHARING

Make your holiday season even more memorable with prizes of Danish design.

Share your seasonal moments throughout November and December with #BoConceptSharing for chances to win vouchers to spend in store.* What is a seasonal moment? A festive dinner party perhaps. Your stylishly decorated Christmas tree. Coffee and a novel in your ‘hideaway’ armchair. Essentially, anything that encapsulates the season for you.

Find inspiration now in your local store and boconcept.com. *See terms and conditions at boconcept.com.

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INTERIORS

unusual objects and rare artefacts.

This talent is evident in every area of Wendy’s life, from her home and wardrobe choices to her Instagram feed and the fabulous hand-knotted rugs she designs. No matter what she turns her hand to, you can guarantee that the finished article will be a riot of perfectly arranged colour and bold pattern, testament to Wendy’s flamboyant, idiosyncratic style.

Wendy is a self-confessed savvy shopper and is always on the hunt for artworks or decorative pieces to dress her home for posts on social media, most of which feature her glorious rug designs. As a result, each and every item in her home has a story behind it, with more recent finds sitting beautifully alongside items that she and Gregor have accumulated over the years. In short, Wendy and Gregor’s home manages to be a warm, inviting family home as well as a unique treasure trove of pattern and colour.

Everywhere you look there is detail, design and decoration; no surface has been neglected. We think that the quote ‘More is more and less is a bore’ by Iris Apfel perfectly sums up Wendy’s amazing interior style.

Extracted from Rockett St George Extraordinary Interiors in Colour by Jane Rockett & Lucy St George. Published by Ryland Peters & Small, Photography by Catherine Gratwicke. Priced £19.99.

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0131 337 2579 | 51-57 dalry road, edinburgh, eh11 2bx | developmentdirect.co.uk Multi Award-Winning Kitchen & Bathroom Design Studio

a division of

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TRAVEL

GRAND GETAWAY Holly Tracey enjoys the finer things in life at Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire

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ravelling up the mile-long driveway to see staff waiting to greet us at the door, my first impression of Glenapp Castle is oddly one of déjà vu. Overwhelmed by the feeling that I’ve experienced this before, it strikes me that this could easily be a scene from the opening credits of Downton Abbey.

Set amongst 36 acres of stunning grounds on the Ayrshire coast, the impressive Victorian castle hotel feels like a breathtaking retreat from reality where I can totally switch off from the day-to-day. I can understand why a certain Sir Winston Churchill stayed here reputedly to discuss the D-Day landings in 1944 when he had the future of Europe laying heavily on his shoulders. Happily, I face no such difficult decisions this weekend so can simply relax in the peace and quiet.

Following a roam in the forest to give us a refreshing taste of the outdoors, we retreat to our suite to rest and recharge. Despite its grand exterior, Glenapp manages to feel homely inside with thoughtful and subtle touches.

Each of the 17 guest rooms have been individually designed and luxuriously styled with a unique combination of period furnishings, antiques and art. The spacious rooms

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boast magnificent views over the gardens or out to sea, taking in the volcanic outcrop of Ailsa Craig and, on a clear day, the hills of Northern Ireland.

There’s also plenty to keep you busy outdoors if you are so inclined. Mountain biking, archery, croquet, and many other activities are available to guests on the castle grounds and a collection of wellies and coats can be found at the front door to borrow. For the more adventurous (and perhaps deep-pocketed), the hotel offers almost limitless opportunities to enjoy all that Ayrshire has to offer including a charter boat allowing guests to explore the waters, beaches and sea life of the area or venture deeper into the Hebridean islands.

Dinner that evening is a fine dining affair and we tuck into the restaurant’s six course gourmet menu which features an impressive amount of locally sourced produce.

All fish and shellfish are line-caught or hand-dived off Scotland’s west coast, the game comes from local estates and much of the fruit, vegetables and herbs come from the Castle’s own gardens.

Spending one night here feels like I’m just dipping my toe into all that Glenapp has to offer. I could happily

FEATURES

ICONIC EDINBURGH Louise Dickins on where to keep cosy this winter

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t might be chilly outside but luckily Edinburgh is a city that does warm and cosy very well.

The glasshouses at The Royal Botanic Gardens are toasty all year round and inside them you can transport yourself to far flung tropical lands. The Turkish Baths at Portobello Swim Centre are a brilliant way to relax and give your body a treat too, especially when it’s blowing a gale outside.

Award-winning Golden Hare Books on St Stephen Street has a wood burning stove as well as a superb range of books to buy. Kay’s Bar, The Jolly Judge and The Sheep Heid are traditional pubs with real fires and are great, atmospheric places to sit for a while with a dram or two. The Christmas markets at East Princes Street Gardens open on 16 November so mulled wine, hot toddies and delicious German snacks are in plentiful supply.

while away a week here and many do. The hotel launched its Hebridean Sea Safaris this year and, while expensive, the sheer ambition of the enterprise (guests are joined by a private chef and professional crew on board and will enjoy luxury glamping in the wild, dinner under the stars and remote island adventure) speaks to why Glenapp was named Independent Hotel of the Year at this year’s CIS Excellence Awards. Continually pushing the envelope of guest experience, the service of the staff is second to none and makes this a real hidden beauty in Ballantrae.

Glenapp Castle, Ballantrae, Girvan, KA26 0NZ, 01465 831212, glenappcastle.com. Room rates from £295 per night (B&B).

Suites from £485 per night (B&B).

Louise is the owner of Dickins, Edinburgh’s premium letting agent for short term and holiday letting. Dickins looks after lots of cosy homes which are perfect for a winter stay. www.dickins.co.uk

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FEATURES WHERE TO BOOK YOUR NEXT TREATMENT…

Shout-out to Zen Lifestyle who beat off stiff competition to bag the top spot for Best Salon at the prestigious British Association of Beauty Therapists & Cosmetologists (BABTAC) Awards 2019. Therapist Jen Glen also won coveted Therapist of the Year at the awards ceremony which celebrates the finest industry standards and talent in the beauty industry.

To make an appointment at the Hanover Street or Bruntsfield Place salons, visit zen-lifestyle.com.

BEAUTYNOTES

BEAUTY EXPERT

Must try products and treatments

Three palettes for sparkling eyes

Featuring Erika Lang, co-founder of award-winning Love Those Lashes

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3 1. Striking jewel tones, buildable colour and bold metallics, Bobbi Brown Luxe Gems, £59, has the party season covered with seven ultra-blendable eye shadows.

2. Charlotte Tilbury’s best-selling nude-pink eye palette has been updated with added sparkle. Pillow Talk Palette of POPs, £42, contains four new shimmering, shine-bright and eyeglowing shades that glide onto your lids.

3. The Christmas edition BareMinerals Horizon Bounce & Blur eyeshadow palette, £29, has four new shades that give an instant wash of sheer colour.

i-on LOVES…

ELEVEN Australia Miracle Hair Treatment, £16.

Cruelty-free and PETA approved, it’s a lightweight leave-in treatment enriched with natural ingredients to help add shine, smoothness and softness, control frizz, flyaways and split ends. Now available at Cheynes Hairdressing Salons throughout Edinburgh. cheyneshairdressing.com

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We launched the business in 2014 because… we love lashes and there was a big gap in the market for a niche salon focusing on them. We now have two Glasgowbased salons, a training academy and an online boutique selling eyelash extension products including our new luxury strip lash range ‘The LTLs.’ The most popular treatment is… our signature handmade Russian Volume lashes where between 2-8 super-fine extensions (much finer than regular extensions) are fanned and applied to one single natural eyelash for extra volume, fullness and length.

The service most people need but don’t get regularly enough is… nostril waxing.

You’ll thank us later!

The regular treatments I have… are lash extensions. I get them topped up every 2-3 weeks. I also get my nails done every three weeks.

My beauty essentials are… silver shampoo, black eyeliner, Billion Dollar Brows Universal brow pencil, coconut oil and my diamante LTL lash brush I take it everywhere. lovethoselashes.co.uk

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46 George Street 0131 220 0777 3 Drumsheugh Place 0131 225 2234 39 Lothian Road 0131 228 9977 45 York Place 0131 558 1010 2 Bruntsfield Avenue 0131 478 3522 cheyneshairdressing.com

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BEAUTY

Finding their tribe

Meet two of the first salonpreneurs who are living their best life after moving to Salon Studios

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alon Studios is turning the idea of traditional salon ownership on its head. It offers six minisalons under one roof, each a stylishly furnished, blank canvas where professionals can make their own mark. Salonpreneurs can create their own culture, set their own hours, enjoy more privacy with guests and make more money, ultimately enjoying more freedom and control.

Naomi Henderson, originally from Orkney, moved to Edinburgh eight years ago and has recently started her journey as a salonpreneur within the UK’s first Salon Studios, in Corstorphine.

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My business, Blush Beauty, offers a range of beauty and spa treatments with one main goal in mind, to make my clients feel their absolute @blushbeautyedinburgh best. You will always leave the salon feeling brand new. Starting my own business is my biggest achievement to date. After suddenly being made redundant, I met Roz Colthart (the founder of Salon Studios) and have never looked back. She has been such an inspiration in helping me to succeed in the start-up of Blush Beauty. Even though you are running your own business, you feel part of the community and realise you may be in business for yourself but not by yourself.”

Ashley MacMillan has been doing nails for 10 years whilst raising her two young daughters.

She is now owner of love nails by Ashley, also housed within Salon Studios.

“

Salon Studios opened at the perfect time for me. I had been travelling to clients houses for four years and it’s taken its toll on me, @lovenails.ash my car and my products (they’re in my bag and not on display). I work around my husband’s shifts and daughters’ school so having a base means I can be flexible with clients and fit in more nails. As I can access the salons 24/7, my work-life balance has been life changing for my family; now I can actually spend quality time with them. The concept of Salon Studios is amazing and absolutely perfect for people like me who work solo and have been travelling around for years. I just love it!”

To book an appointment with Ashley or Naomi, or to find out more about how you can become a salonpreneur, visit salonstudios.co.uk

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A warm country house, a Scottish adventure, a glamorous retreat. Gleneagles is a five-star hotel like no other.

From wee stocking fillers to gifts that will knock their socks off - our vouchers make a special surprise on Christmas morning. From shooting, golfing and fishing lessons to Afternoon Tea for two, and from beauty experiences at Bob and Cloche to monetary vouchers from ÂŁ50 to ÂŁ5,000, we have gift vouchers for every kind of adventure.

Visit Gleneagles.com

ON THE FOOD

RADAR New openings, must-try menus and foodie finds

WILD THING

The latest launch from Edinburgh’s Old Curiosity Distillery is a celebration of nature distilled with nine wild botanicals and herbs.

It’s the UK’s first true wild gin and it comes in a wooden box which can be re-used as a bird box. £32 for 50cl at Harvey Nichols. theoldcuriosity.co.uk

FESTIVE FEASTING Things are getting festive at Edinburgh’s favourite steak restaurant, Chop House, with seasonal menus to suit everyone. For the office Christmas lunch (for parties of four or more), there’s three courses for just £28 with tons of tempting options including a delicious whisky cured salmon, the signature 35-day dry aged beef with bone marrow potato gratin (hellooo!) and a decadent toffee apple crumble. Or for the ultimate Christmas celebration (for parties of six or more), there’s the £50 festive feast showcasing their sharing cuts of beef cooked over the coals and served with a selection of sauces and sides. The festive menus are available at all three Chop House restaurants in Bruntsfield, Leith and Market Street and must be pre-booked. For more information, visit chophousesteak.co.uk.

A CELEBRATION OF SEAFOOD A ROOM OF ONE’S OWN

If you’re planning a special celebratory dinner, we’ve found the hottest spot in town.

Hawksmoor’s newly-opened private dining space, The Tellers’ Room, seats up to 48 guests and is separated from the main dining room with a tall timber and glass screen so you can feast on steak and seafood in perfect privacy. For more information, visit thehawksmoor.com.

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For an indulgent Christmas night out, gather your friends for the seafood feast at White Horse on the Royal Mile. Kicking off with oysters and Champagne, the meal continues with a selection of small plates served to the table to share. Seasonal specialities include sesame tuna with grapefruit and nasturtium, monkfish satay with toasted nuts and razor clams with chilli and chorizo. And to finish, there’s sweets and cheese too, all for £49 per person. The Seafood Feast is available for parties of eight or more and must be pre-booked. For more information, visit whitehorseoysterbar.co.uk.

FOOD AND DRINK

FOUR NEW BARS TO TRY

HEY PALU This modern Italian bar has just opened in the former Fat Pony premises, bringing a taste of La Dolce Vita to Bread Street. Vermouths, amari, bitters and aperitivi feature throughout the cocktail menu and there’s a special selection of Italy’s finest wines and drinks to go. heypalu.com

GREEN ROOM

CALLING ALL CHOCOHOLICS…

Edinburgh’s newest culinary attraction is a celebration of all things chocolate. Located just off the Royal Mile, The Chocolatarium takes visitors on a fascinating journey covering the history of chocolate, how it’s made (with the opportunity to make and take away your own chocolate bar) and a tasting session where you can sample a whole array of Scottish craft chocolates including unusual varieties like camel milk (known for its health benefits), haggis or gin & tonic. You had us at ‘chocolate’. Tickets for the Tour of Chocolate are £16 for adults and £12 children. chocolatarium.co.uk

Previously known as The Melville, this old school pub in Edinburgh’s West End has had a makeover and now offers an impressive wine list and some great grub from small plates to hearty classics. thegreenroomedinburgh.co.uk

SPRY WINES Located in what was once Hi-fi Corner on Haddington Place, this Leith wine shop and bar offers bottles to sit in and enjoy with small plates, or to takeaway and savour at home. @spry_wines

THE BROUGHTON Rising from the ashes of The Phoenix on Broughton Street, Public House & Eatery is a sophisticated take on the gastropub offering what they call ‘refined comfort food’ (and starting a bit of a Sunday roast war with neighbours The Ox #awks). thebroughtonbar.com

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deargreencoffee.com

FEATURES

Meet the Maker

Introducing the faces behind our favourite local foods WHO Lisa Lawson, Founder of Dear Green Coffee Roasters.

WHAT We are an ethically traded specialty grade coffee roaster operating from Glasgow and supplying to cafes and stores across the country.

WHY In my previous career as a chef, I drank a lot of coffee, especially whilst working 14-hour shifts during the Edinburgh Festival. Then I went backpacking and discovered coffee roasting while working in a deli. The owner sent me off to help her son who was roasting beans in a garage and I fell in love with the process and the adrenalin of working hard in a start-up company.

HOW After my travels, I had a sevenyear career change selling wine before starting to roast again from a big old 19th century industrial space across from the Barrowlands. We’ve managed to put together a team with many years of experience and we invest in ongoing training to continually learn, develop our product, and set industry trends. We visit coffee farms annually to ensure we can make statements about our ethical supply chain with absolute integrity. We also donate a percentage of profits to the World Coffee Research program.

SIGNATURE DISH I go through phases depending on where I’ve travelled. I made laksa for years, then Morocco opened up a whole other level of interest and I couldn’t stop making tajine.

FRIDGE FAVOURITES Sparkling wine, Greek yogurt, smelly cheese,

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olives, eggs, spring onions, miso paste, kombucha and a whole host of other fermenting and pickling experiments.

CULINARY ICONS I worked with Tony Singh years ago and he taught me the wonders of using nutmeg as a seasoning. I’ve never forgotten it.

My experience of ingredients and how to put them together was also changed forever after living in Sydney and experiencing the local influence of Tetsuya’s, Bill Granger and Kylie Kwong. I also always find myself going back to my Cranks and Les Manoir aux Quat’Saisons cookbooks.

FOODIE SHOPS I frequent local Asian food shops in Glasgow’s Southside to pick up vegetables and am loyal to Mr Lim’s in Garnethill for some South East Asian ingredients.

EATING OUT I love Kimchi Cult, Nanikas, Yadgar, Julie’s Kopitiam, Cafe Strangebrew, Five March - there’s so much choice these days!

QUICKFIRE QUIZ

Gas or electric? Gas is best for cooking but I’ve gone electric (renewables for the win).

Sweet or savoury? I have a sweet tooth but avoid refined sugar as much as I can.

Caf or decaf? Caf, of course.

Although our decaf punches high these days.

Pasta or pizza? Pasta if it’s freshly made, pizza if it has a thin base.

Supermarket or farmer’s market? Farmer’s market – let’s always support the producers.

GIVE THE GIFT OF FINE DINING THIS CHRISTMAS On this festive period, book and enjoy a Michelin star meal at Restaurant Martin Wishart or choose the perfect gift: Treat your loved ones this Christmas to a gastronomic experience with vouchers available online from £20. www.martin-wishart.co.uk 54 shore, Edinburgh, EH6 6RA. Tel: 01315533557

WHERE I-ON’S BEEN EATING THIS MONTH

ONE SQUARE

Jo Morris feasts on a lavish afternoon tea in a luxurious Edinburgh setting

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hat do you get if you mix a view of Edinburgh Castle with a meal at 3pm? Afternoon tea at the Sheraton’s One Square, of course. And it is a meal. For those who like their afternoon tea light and cucumber-y, look away now. This afternoon tea is built for champions. It’s a heavyweight version of the classic in-between meal and leaves you replete wanting only a light supper many, many hours later.

The experience starts with a lovely tea ritual. You can smell a wide selection of different varieties before choosing your perfect blend. The tea is then presented in a seethrough pot so you can ensure it is filtered to perfection before daring to pour. My guest was a big fan of all this. I’m a coffee drinker so whilst it all looked rather wonderful, I opted for a cafetière of the hard stuff instead.

We sadly had to pass on the glass of Prosecco (or Champagne if you prefer) as we were both driving but, with big appetites, there was no such holding back when it came to the food. As you would expect from one of the

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best hotels in the city, executive chef Shaun Woodhouse’s menu is full of fine local and seasonal ingredients. The savouries are fabulous meaty creations with a twist (there is a vegetarian option as well). The Scotch beef and potato pie is my clear favourite closely followed by the onion and arran mustard croquette and the asparagus, tomato and Scottish crowdie (curd cheese) quiche. There’s also a nod to the quintessential finger sandwich with a smoked salmon and compressed cucumber version.

Some would argue that the real star of afternoon tea is the cakes and these ones don’t disappoint. The winner here is the lychee mousse with raspberries and rose which is delicate, light and very moreish. The scones are excellent, helped by the One Square gin-soaked raisins in them and a generous serving of clotted cream. The rich dark chocolate gold on almond praline crunch is sweet and decadent, whilst the blackcurrant tart and ola dubh cake add some distinct flavours and more colour to the tiers.

By the end of the feast, two hours had flown by, the sun was low and glinting on the castle and we hadn’t stopped chatting – or eating. A perfect afternoon.

Afternoon Tea from £28 at One Square, The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, 1 Festival Sq, EH3 9SR, 0131 229 9131, onesquareedinburgh.co.uk. A festive afternoon tea will be available from 29 November.

… AND A LITTLE FURTHER AFIELD

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t’s always worth the road trip to experience Gleneagles and even more so when an indulgent afternoon tea awaits. Hosted in the beautiful surroundings of the luxury Perthshire hotel’s Glendevon room, with picture perfect views of the Ochill Hills, The Gleneagles Afternoon Tea is a sumptuous affair with mouth-watering savouries, fresh cakes and pastries all baked and prepared daily by their team of pastry chefs.

Dainty finger sandwiches are followed by freshly baked warm scones with light, fluffy clotted cream and homemade Gleneagles jam (available to buy in the retail arcade and Garden Café). There’s also a huge selection of the finest teas. The sweet tray looks like something from Alice in Wonderland, bursting with colour and flavour; chocolate cremeux with blackberry, pear and Tonka bean and slices of Earl Grey tea and plum cake… just heavenly.

And next month, the experience becomes even more scrumptious with a special Nutcracker-themed Christmas Afternoon Tea from 02 December.

To book Gleneagles afternoon tea, £45 per person or £65 with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rose Champagne, call 01764 694270 or visit gleneagles.com.

For all your wholesome, hearty & healthy kitchen cupboard staples

www.realfoods.co.uk 37 Broughton Street 8 Brougham Street

organic • plant based • vegan • vegetarian 77

WHERE I-ON’S BEEN EATING THIS MONTH

THE KINNEUCHAR INN

Amanda Southey discovers a new foodie gem in the East Neuk of Fife

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he sleepy village of Kilconqhar seems an unlikely spot for a hotshot London chef to set up shop but Scotland’s foodies are getting pretty excited about The Kinneuchar Inn. Helmed by James Ferguson (formerly of The Connaught and hip East London eatery Beagle) and partner Alethea Palmer, the 17th century pub has undergone a two-year refurb and is looking better than ever. Think open fires, handcrafted furniture, and a cosy atmosphere which makes diners feel instantly at ease.

The pub’s been at the centre of village life for centuries so it’s nice to see that area has been retained (especially as my family are locals, living just down the road in Elie) while the restaurant is housed in a separate dining room with just 32 covers. My mum may be sceptical about the appeal of ‘fancy food’ in the area but when we visit for dinner shortly after the restaurant’s opening in September, she’s almost immediately won over by the impressive yet unfussy menu and Alethea’s warm welcome.

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As is par for the course these days, the food is seasonal and locally sourced, featuring produce from the nearby Balcaskie Estate and a new purpose-built butchery. We begin with a little appetiser of homemade flatbread with Fava and Mint, £4.50, then share a couple of starters; the house smoke sea trout with beetroot sauerkraut & crème fraiche, £7.50, and the young leeks gribiche, £7, which is full of tart and herby flavours. For the main event, I opt for plaice served with purple sprouting broccoli, capers and brown butter, £16, while mother samples the salt beef, dumpling, carrot and horseradish, £16.50. Both dishes are generously portioned and wonderfully rich; the beef is melt in your mouth soft, while a side order of Ratte potatoes, £3.50, is the ideal indulgent accompaniment.

Pleasantly full but determined to manage dessert, we opt for the ‘light’ option of apple sorbet and vodka, £6 – the perfect palate cleanser - and a far more decadent marmalade treacle tart and milk ice cream, £6.50, which is just as sweet, sticky and delicious as it sounds. I might not be able to speak for the rest of the locals but The Kinneuchar Inn has certainly found a few fans in our family and it’s well worth the drive for out-of-towners too.

9-11 Main St, Kilconquhar, KY9 1LF, 01333 340377 kinneucharinn.com.

BEST BITS

Date: Cadiz on George Street for seafood, Origano on Leith Walk for pizza and Tapa on the Shore for tapas.

All have a lovely cosy feel, great wine and that nice not too casual yet not too fancy atmosphere.

Cadiz

Night out: I’m not really into clubbing. I’m more alternative and go to places like Banshee Labyrinth, Opium and the rock/metal nights at La Belle.

Dinner with pals: The Pitt Market for street food and drinks on a weekend, or Wings in the Old Town for good beer and plates upon plates of awesome chicken wings.

Coffee: Pep & Fodder on Waterloo Place. It’s great.

Walk: I live in Leith, and my partner and I really enjoy a wander along the Water of Leith to Stockbridge - culminating in a pint at the Stockbridge Tap, of course.

Pamper: The Lush Spa on Princes Street - they offer loads of different treatments to suit all budgets and needs, and best of all, you can stock up on cruelty-free goodies in the shop afterwards.

Cocktails: I love Hoot The Redeemer on Hanover Street. The staff are always

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THEBESTOFEDINBURGH

Siobhan Hewison Edinburgh based blogger @britishbeergirl shares her favourite haunts

really friendly and more than happy to go off-menu to make me something tailored to my tastes.

Burgers: Meat:Stack @ Salt Horse on Blackfriars Street.

It’s a craft beer bar but the burgers are to die for.

Beer: Boy, this is a toughie.

Hanging Bat, Six Degrees North and Fierce Bar in

Hoot the Redeemer

Custom Lane

The Lush Spa

the city centre. Stewart’s Dockside Tap, Campervan Brewery Tap Room, Steel Coulson and Dreadnought Leith (my local). Hit me up on Twitter if you need a more specific recommendation!

Pub grub: The Queens Arms on Frederick Street for sharing pies the size of a small child.

Art: There’s a great indieart culture in Leith with artist studio open days happening regularly and always something on at Custom Lane.

Remote working: Either Spilt Milk on Great Junction Street or Hideout Cafe on Constitution Street. Good coffee, lunches and cakes, and a relaxed vibe.

We’re full of ideas when it comes to celebrating the festive season, so why not Get Merry with us this year at Tigerlily, Rabble, Montpeliers, Indigo Yard or Candy Bar! Our Get Merry menus are available from Sunday to Wednesday.

Enjoy 2 courses from our Christmas menus, a bottle of beer or glass of sparkling on arrival & entry into Lulu or Eastside afterwards.

PRICES START FROM JUST £15 FOR LUNCH OR DINNER If you are looking to go full on festive feasting, our 3 course menu is available 7 days a week & prices start from £19 for lunch or dinner.

Email tammie@montpeliers.co.uk to book or visit our individual websites for more info.

psst!

Have you heard about our Christmas Cocktail Club? Enjoy £4 cocktails in all of our venues 7 days a week for the whole of the festive period when you buy a wristband for only £4! Visit our websites for more details.

INSTA-INSIDER

I’m really proud of this photo of blogger Howey Don who I photographed recently at London Fashion Week - the light and tones are ace!

This is my favourite photo of my friend Jokin, taken when we were in New York last year @mrpoplarfield #newyork Photographing people is always my first love. This was part of an exhibition I put on earlier this year #portraitphotography

It’s no secret that I love coffee, and Door 127 on George Street Edinburgh is my go-to. Soy Latte please!

I love the colours in this street style photo from LFW too #streetstyle #fashionweek

INSTA-INSIDER

EDINBURGH BASED PHOTOGRAPHER ELLIE MORAG CHOOSES HER #TOP9 Follow on Instagram @ellie_morag

This is a behind the scenes shot from a photoshoot I did with Greenroom films. It was an incredibly empowering photoshoot with so many strong women at the helm

A photo of me taken by friend @snapsbymartin for my exhibition #creativeconversations New York stole my heart a long time ago, I try to return as often as I can and photograph its streets 82

There is something I love about photographing people with red hair, it’s so vibrant and wonderful

UNIQUE. BEAUTIFUL. DARING.

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Nor’ Loft Champagne lounge

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DIAMONDS . WATCHES . JEWELLERY