JUNE 2014 edgarsCLUB.CO.ZA
call of the wild
Local escapes in the great outdoors
The Spice Route
A brave new world of perfume
Baby
Cold outside it’s
Get cosy with luxe layers and soft knits
Midwinter is synonymous with downtime at home – cosying up in front of the fire, nestling into your favourite chair with a cup of tea and a good book, and donning soft knits perfect for pottering in the warmth of the kitchen. We want to hibernate now, even if it’s within the cocoon of a fantastic faux fur on the way to the office. Edgars has much to offer you in the way of snug, from great knits to comforting skincare. Have a look at the extensive line-up of knitwear for the family in ‘The Knit Factor’ on page 22 and, for a lingerie and knitwear combo that takes the dowdy out of staying in, turn to ‘Under Wraps’ on page 38. Our skincare piece on page 46 details top products for getting your skin through the demands of cold weather, while our story ‘The Naturalist’ showcases flawless, barely there make-up for the at-home-within-yourself aspirant. We asked four South Africans with some pretty pads to tell us what home means to them on page 70. I loved their answers and I’m sure you’ll find them heartwarming and so familiar too. Of course, cabin fever can strike so we’ve rounded up some lovely local destinations for you on page 76, so you don’t have to venture too far. Stay warm,
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photography: caroline mackintosh at supernova; dewald daniels at bird on a wire; mark cameron at agent emma; courtesy of Sarah Nankin/elle decoration. Stills Photography: Riana Vogel.
editor’s letter
Cover girl shock absorber sports bra, R259.95; Free 2bu lounge
Pretty and playful, polka dots meet lace in contrasting hues for an ultra-feminine look
two-pack spot mesh bra, R199.95, two-pack boyleg,
two-pack spot bra, R199.95, two-pack boyleg, R139.95,
sporty
feminine
bra, R199.95, boyleg, R109.95, both sissy boy
The moulded plunge and sheer mesh detail add an unexpected twist to clean lines
two-pack bra, R299.95, two-pack boyleg,
padded bra, R199.95, thong, R99.95,
lingerie shop smart
Intricate intimates: four fab looks to suit your mood
boudoir
guess babydoll chemise, R399.95
casual
photography: caroline mackintosh at supernova. stills photographer: sebastien rĂ–hner. stylist: candice robinson. hair and make-up: johanni nel at supernova. model: leonie meyer at fusion.
lace underwire bra, R289.95,
Add a touch of whimsy to everyday cotton comfies with ribbon-and-lace trimmings
two-pack t-shirt bra, R169.95, threepack bottoms,
Gorgeous glam goes dare-to-wear sensual with intricate patterns and exquisite lace
balconette bra, R229.95, boyleg, R109.95, both
two-pack bra, R249.95, two-pack panties,
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by annelee joubert PHOTOGRAPHY dewald daniels
Under wr ps
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Dress to chill in soft layers, cocooning textures and calming colours
casual cocoon cardi, R249.95, cable-knit leggings, R169.95, both kelso; shock absorber sports
above: sissy boy bra, R199.95; MANGO wrap cardi, R599.95
Desert roses
There’s a brave new world of perfumes out there, and they’re as beautiful, mysterious and sensual as the region that inspired them. By Helen Clemson clockwise from bottom left: Yves Saint Laurent Manifesto L’Elixir Eau de Parfum Intense 50ml, R1 230. Aramis Perfume Calligraphy Eau de Parfum 100ml, R1 170 EstÉe Lauder Amber Mystique Eau de Parfum 100ml, R1 350. Tom ford Oud Wood Eau de Parfum 50ml, R1 900. Jo
As a first-time visitor to Dubai, I was prepared for the futuristic high-rise buildings and lavish malls, but my first foray into this region showed me a world beyond the bling. What I didn’t anticipate was being exposed to a whole new world of scents that had my ‘Western nose’ twitching with excitement. In the Middle East, I discovered how fragrances are woven into daily life in a way I’d not experienced before. Men and women layer their lives and bodies with them – oils rubbed into skin, smoke from incense infusing clothes and hair, resins burnt in homes. Traditionalists prefer to present guests with perfumes to sample at the end of a meal, rather than a bowl
Photography: sébastien rohner. Stylist:
sultans of scent look smart
of chocolate or a plate of cheese. Early Arab mosques were built using mortar mixed with musk to pervade the rooms on hot days. That’s pretty inspiring. (The word ‘inspire’, after all, means ‘to breathe in’.) It’s not an overstatement to say that Arabic culture is fragrance obsessed. In fact, the Middle East ranks the highest in the world in terms of per-capita perfume consumption: an average of $350 every year. It’s these numbers, and regionally revered resins, spices and florals that have brought about a wave of modern scents with ingredients that roll off the tongue like lines from ancient Persian poetry. Often layered with floral scents, these East/West hybrid perfumes are soft, seductive and very sexy. In Tom Ford’s Private Collection, Tom Ford Oud Wood or Oud Fleur can be layered with other fragrances to create your very own signature scent. Classic British perfumer Jo Malone has already done the combining for you: Jo Malone Oud & Bergamot Cologne Intense blends the mysterious, smoky oud with crisp, floral bergamot. “Middle Eastern culture has an extraordinary appreciation for the luxurious, emotional and memorable qualities of fragrance,” says Tom Ford
of his luxe creation, Sahara Noir. The base of this beautiful fragrance is built around warm, amber notes, including cedar, frankincense and oud; the latter the hero of this fragrance genre, admired for its heady wood scent, both foreign and enticingly familiar. And, of course, the other star is the rose, possibly the most mystical ingredient of all. Take the Taif rose: grown for three centuries in the Sarawat mountains, this 30-petalled damask variety is rich in oil and releases a potent scent. It’s a key player in the heady mix of Arabianinspired aromas. (For a beautifully romantic interpretation, try Lancôme Trésor in Love, which is laced with Turkish rose.) For jaded Western noses, these hypnotic scents can transport you into a mysterious world, and linger long after you’ve left the room. They bring richness to fragrances, much like cashmere does to an outfit. Like a truly sexy woman, these scents don’t reveal all their features at once. They’ll slowly disclose themselves to you over the course of the day. In our fast-paced world, that’s another great reason to slow down and smell the roses – not to mention the oud, amber and myrrh.
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ra into
f a ic Leave the roar of city traffic in the dust with our pick of exceptional South African destinations
travel live smart
bush
Moditlo River Lodge
Where in the world? ‘The place of the elephant’, Moditlo lies at the heart of the Blue Canyon Conservancy on the banks of the Nbesi River. The lodge’s 16 private rooms offer first-rate luxury against a backdrop of pristine bushveld. What’s so special? With no enclosure around the lodge, this is an authentic safari experience, down to the night guard’s knowledge of nature and the superb tracking abilities of the guides. Reason to get up in the morning June is a perfect time to visit as the foliage is thinner, making it easier to see game. Opt for an early-morning safari and watch the bushveld come to life. Order this While the chef’s gourmet meals are raved about, evening braais around the fire are a hit. Expect three courses, perfectly cooked meat and excellent local wine set to great entertainment by the talented locals. Can’t leave without making use of your outside shower. You might see everything from warthogs to kudu and a host of antelope. Remember to pack books on flora and fauna, and thick jerseys to keep you cosy on crisp pre-dawn and evening safaris – temperatures can reach 25°C in the day, but when the sun drops, it can go right down to 8°C. One for the frame Book a hot-air balloon ride and soar hundreds of feet over greater Kruger National Park. The inside scoop “You’re completely surrounded by nature at Moditlo,” says Claire Shortt, Getaway writer. “My highlight has to be seeing a leopard. I’ve been to a few reserves and, while coming close to seeing this big cat, I’ve always just missed it. When I told my ranger, he was determined to find the elusive creature and I could finally tick ‘leopard’ off my list.” SAVE Pay for two nights, stay for three at Moditlo River Lodge for R4 625 per person sharing.
Includes accommodation in a luxury room, all meals, teas/coffees and two game drives per day (drinks on the drive included). Valid from 1 June to 31 August 2014.
forest
Tsala Treetop Lodge
Where in the world? This hideaway on the Garden Route between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna consists of 16 secluded treetop suites with plunge pools, and a main lodge, connected by wooden walkways that wind their way through the Tsitsikamma forest. What’s so special? Watch the monkeys playing in the surrounding trees while cocooned in your elevated suite. Reason to get up in the morning If you’re active, head to the Storms River suspension bridge for an earlymorning hike along the winding river and rugged cliffs. Or simply soak up the morning sunshine on Tsala’s diningroom deck above the forest floor. Order this Award-winning restaurant Zinzi has been rated number one in the area on Trip Advisor: the wild mushroom risotto and red velvet cake are firm favourites, as is the kudu with dark chocolate and cherry sauce. Can’t leave without visiting the Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre, where you’ll get close to large cats such as servals and leopards. Take a cheetah for a walk at sunset and learn all about these graceful felines from the knowledgeable guides. Good to know On chilly winter nights, you can look forward to a crackling log fire, hot chocolate and hot-water bottles in your room after dinner. Remember to pack your binoculars. You’ll easily see indigenous birds such as the distinctive Knysna touraco from your veranda. The inside scoop Fashion director Mari Groenewald says, “The chalets’ floorto-ceiling glass windows make
“The floorto-ceiling glass windows make you feel like you’re floating above the treetops” edgarsclub.co.za 77 club
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you feel like you’re floating above the treetops. Some special moments include spotting a loerie on my way to breakfast, and the outside shower with the most magnificent natural light pouring through the leafy ‘roof’, with birdsong echoing around me.” SAVE Pay for two nights and stay for three at Tsala Treetop Lodge for R4 303 per person sharing. Includes accommodation in a treetop suite, breakfast daily, access to elephant interactions, mountain biking, treetop canopy tours and cultural tours. Valid until 31 August 2014.
beach
Rocktail Beach Camp
Where in the world? On the coastline next to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and shaded by the lush Maputaland forest, the camp comprises 17 luxurious semi-tented suites within short walking distance from the beach. What’s so special? A prime example of upmarket ecotourism, Rocktail has the best of both worlds, with safaris and hikes inland and a host of maritime activities such as boat trips, scuba diving and snorkelling. How to get there If you’re into places off the beaten track, this is it – five hours north of Durban. If you don’t drive a 4x4, park your car where the tarmac ends and a friendly Rocktail driver will collect you. Reason to get out up in the morning With water temperatures in June still a mild 23°C, you can snorkel or scuba dive around the coral reef before breakfasting on the beach. Order this Expect satisfying, homestyle cooking – the fresh fish dishes and lamb shank get rave reviews. For an extra-special evening, enjoy a sundowner on the raised viewing deck. Can’t leave without going on an ocean safari. June is the start of whale season, when majestic humpback whales migrate to the bay. In the ’hood At Tembe Elephant Park, club 78 edgarsclub.co.za
a two-and-a-half-hour game drive will get you up close with the Big Five. Good to know For great treetop and beach views, book chalets eight to 12, or for easy access to the pool and restaurant, choose chalets one to seven. Remember to pack sun cream. Winter is the dry season here and temperatures average 22°C, so you can expect clear skies and sunshine. One for the frame Be camera-ready in case you come across red duikers or monkeys, or simply want to capture the panoramic sea views from the top of the camp. The inside scoop “You need to stay longer than two nights as it’s quite a drive to get there. The pristine beach with no one around really makes you feel small. Very few places in the world offer unspoilt nature in such a wonderful setting. I felt privileged to be able to experience it.” Jessy Lipperts, owner of Extraordinary-Travel.com SAVE Spend three nights at Rocktail Beach Camp and pay R5 996 per person sharing, plus get four dives free. Includes accommodation for three nights in a chalet; dinner and breakfast daily. Valid until 26 June 2014.
“Very few places in the world offer unspoilt nature in such a wonderful setting” top, from left: Enjoy meals from the elevated deck at tsala treetop lodge; antelope graze peacefully in the surrounds at moditlo river lodge; spectacular views over the
NATURE’S CALLING
text: rosie goddard. Photography: Gallo Images/getty images.
Who needs to venture overseas this winter when there’s so much to do right here in SA?
Monk’s Cowl Golf Resort, Central Drakensberg The appeal This resort in the magnificent Champagne Valley is great for exploring. The deal Pay for three nights, stay for four at R2 599 per person sharing. Valid 1 May – 31 August 2014. Do this Hikes in the surrounding mountains are a must for the spectacular vistas. History buffs can visit the Spioenkop battlefields.
Pestana Kruger Lodge, Mpumalanga The appeal The lodge is next to Kruger National Park’s Malelane Gate, so you can breakfast while watching elephants grazing nearby. The deal Pay for three nights, stay for four at R2 959 per person sharing. Valid until 19 December 2014. Do this Hop over to the Kruger Park for a bush walk and to experience its remarkable bird life.
Kagga Kamma Private Game Reserve, Cederberg The appeal Relax amid the rugged beauty of sandstone rock formations by day and take in the clear sky at night. The deal Pay for one night and get one night free at R1 850 per person sharing. Valid until 31 August 2014. Do this Head up to the escarpment for sundowners and a view across the Ceres Karoo, 700m below.
Hog Hollow Country Lodge, Plettenberg Bay The appeal The lodge is on the edge of the Matjies River gorge, with panoramic views of the valley and Tsitsikamma mountains. The deal Pay for two nights, stay for three at R2 640 per person sharing. Valid until 31 August 2014. Do this A nature fix includes whale watching, an elephant sanctuary and the tranquil Keurbooms River.
BOOK TODAY To take advantage of the deals in this story, contact the Edgars Club Travel Desk. Call 0861 22 94 63 (from SA), +27 21 709 6353 (from outside SA), or email edgars@traveldesk.za.com. Terms and conditions travel offer subject to availability; limited stock available at this price point. All offers are on a first come, first served basis. All quoted prices are based
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Bonang Matheba
The first Revlon ambassador outside the US shares her thoughts on nocturnal creatures and movie friends
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And The City – we’d talk fashion all day long. And Regina George from the 2004 movie Mean Girls. It would be great for her to have your back. 7. What makes you happy? Making my mother proud. She can walk with pride knowing she has a daughter who has gone above and beyond to be successful 8. What virtue do you admire most in others? Honesty. Being in the spotlight makes it difficult to find people who are loyal and honest. It’s why I don’t have many friends – I’ve been hurt in the past. 9. Your best quality? Being a Cancerian, I have a strong motherly instinct. I love taking care of those around me. But I’m also extremely impatient. 10. What gets you out of bed in the morning? Being an inspiration to people. I hope that as a role model, I’m giving others the power to do the same.
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be a winner Would you like to win a XXXXXXXXX [TBC]. Simply answer this question: What secret power would Bonang most like to have? Enter today. Email your answer to competitions@ contactedgarsclub.co.za.
Photography: Gallo Images/getty Images. Additional Photography: Supplied.
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1. What is your motto? Rise above. Return hate with love. Kill them with kindness, then bury them with success. 2. All-time favourite guilty pleasure? I shop way too much. Online shopping is going to be the death of me. 3. Who would play you in the movie of your life? Vivica A Fox. I love her work – she’s fierce. And of course, there’s her surname… 4. What animal most reflects your personality? The fox. It’s fierce yet mysterious. People admire foxes but are wary of getting too close. 5. If you could have a magic power, what would it be? I’d love to be invisible – it would be fun to be a ‘fly on the wall’. I’d also use my powers to spy on Channing Tatum. 6. Which fictional character do you wish you could be friends with in real life? Carrie Bradshaw from Sex