LE KAP - Winter 2017 edition

SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

SOUTH AFRICA

®

‘Cognac & cigar pairing’

CARY GRANT LOUIS XIII - a century in a bottle

‘The Art of Collection’

The coolest hotel in the world WIN TER/ SP RIN G 2017

R45.00

LE KAP LIFESTYLE FAIR

SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Welcome to

ONE CENTURY IN A BOTTLE

Four generations of Cellar Masters have crafted twelve hundred eaux-de-vie to establish Louis XIII as the most prestigious spirit on Earth. A closely guarded secret since 1874.

www. www.

-cognac.com .com

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editor-in-chief l Steve Swanepoel automotive lifestyle editor l Richard Webb multimedia editor l Stephanie Swanepoel creative l Le Mag Publications Group proofreaders l Moira Theart l Marion Pfeiffer photographers l Various wine correspondents l Jean Vincent Ridon l Jörg Pfützner international research & correspondents Howard Linsee-Tutill l Liz Webber advertising enquiries l sales@lemagpublications.com

CONTENTS

editorial enquiries l info@lemagpublications.com event enquiries l info@lemagpublications.com website l Warren Richardson editorial contributors l Moira Theart, Marion Pfeiffer, Joy Scott, Paula Wilson, Steve Swanepoel, Sylvia Sibbald, Anne Wheeler, Richard Webb, Daphne McFarlane, Stephanie Swanepoel, Diane Stadler, Juliette Corrin, Nicolene Richards, Jani Le Roux, Mike Colborne, Claudia Pretorius, publisher l Le Mag Publications Group editor l editor@lemagpublications.com email l info@lemagpublications.com web l www.lemagpublications.com tel l 021 829 7120 l 021 829 7205 fax l 086 554 5580

FRONT COVER l CARY GRANT

08 FROM THE EDITOR 10 CARY GRANT 14 A CENTURY IN A BOTTLE 20 LE KAP LIFESTYLE FAIR 28 THE SEVEN SEAS EXPLORER

COPYRIGHT © 2016 l 2017 - LE MAG PUBLICATIONS GROUP The opinions and views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Le Mag Publications Group. The publisher and editor regretfully cannot accept any liability for omissions or errors contained in this publication. The ownership of registered trademarks is duly acknowledged. No part of this publication or any of its content may be reproduced, digitally stored or transmitted in any format without the express and written permission of the publishing editor.

34 VINCENT BOULLE - NEDBANK PRIVATE WEALTH 36 A HUNGARIAN RETREAT

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72 Breguet and the art of Guilloche

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CONTENTS CONT ...

BY JEFFREY S. KINGSTON

40 THE ART OF COLLECTION

72 COGNAC AND CIGAR PAIRING

42 FOR YOUNG MEN IN A HURRY

76 THE MILLENIALS

48 THE COOLEST HOTEL IN THE WORLD

80 DUBAI

56 THE HISTORY OF JEANS

86 THE BOTANIST

60 MAGICAL HURAWALHI

88 THE PERFECT APOLOGY

64 FASHION GIANTS AT LE KAP

90 ERIN SAWYER

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from the editor

W

elcome to this edition of Le Kap magazine. Readers will note that we have entitled this edition as ‘Winter/Spring’ as it is being released a little later than usual. The reason for this is that we wanted to include our annual event, Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, in this edition.

So, please read all about this exciting event on page 20.

Winter is my favourite season of the year for two specific reasons; firstly I enjoy the rain and of course the good red wine that accompanies the weather conditions, enjoyed in front of a raging fireplace and secondly as one tends to look upon Spring as the period of renewal. Everything seems to come alive with an orchestrated sense of rejuvenation. The trees blossom and the birds start announcing each day with excitement at the crack of dawn.

We feature Cary Grant, one of the most iconic Hollywood stars of all time, on our front cover. Read about Cary and his illustrious career on page 10.

Another very informative editorial ‘A Century in a Bottle’ - on page 14 - tells the story of the production of the exclusive Louis XIII Cognac, one of the most expensive cognacs in the world.

As with all editions of Le Kap, we share some interesting holiday destinations with our readers. On my personal bucket list will be a visit to the IceHotel in Sweden and of course a cruise on the magnificent Seven Seas Explorer, which simply cannot be left off any wish list.

We trust and hope you enjoy this edition of Le Kap magazine as much as we have in compiling the editorial content for you, our readers.

Enjoy the read …

Steve Swanepoel, Founder & CEO Le Mag Publications Group

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EVERYBODY WOULD LIKE TO BE CARY GRANT

By Mike Colborne

In 1999, Cary Grant who graces the front cover of this edition of Le Kap, was named as the ‘second greatest male star of the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema’. Humphrey Bogart was first. Grant was an English actor who became an American citizen in 1942 and was known for his transatlantic accent, debonair demeanour and ‘dashing good looks’. He became a Hollywood staple as the epitome of classic leading male movie stars, cultivating the image of ageless style and charisma and was selected by Empire magazine as ‘one of the 100 Sexiest Stars in the history of film’. He was smooth, he was suave and many stated that he was just extraordinarily attractive!

Grant died 30 years ago on 29 November 1986. His estate, which included several homes and two Rolls Royce automobiles, was worth USD 60 million.

This led to him being auditioned for a show, Golden Dawn, on Broadway and this was followed by parts in several other productions.

‘I have spent the greater part of my life fluctuating between Archie Leach and Cary’ In 1931, Grant left Broadway and relocated to Hollywood and is considered as active in the entertainment world from 1932. Aged 27, standing six foot one and a half inches tall, with the aura and bearing of a gentleman combined with his good looks and virility, he was quickly in demand. He passed another screen test with flying colours during this time and was told, ‘do something about your name’ and he did. He had failed a previous screen test for a movie – ‘You’re bowlegged and your neck is too thick’.

Grant was born Archibald Alexander Leach in Bristol, UK in 1904.

Elias and Elsie Leach were not wealthy and he experienced a normal Cary Grant made more than 43 movies during his career. In lower-middle-class childhood until he was age nine when he arrived 1932, there were small parts in seven movies, which gained little home to be told that his mother had gone on holiday. The reality was recognition and he thought he was headed for oblivion. However, that she had been placed in a mental institution Mae West chose him as her leading man in the and he did not see her again until he was in his “He is sensational looking movie She Done Him Wrong and this movie was a 20s. It was only after his father died that Grant and if he can talk, I’ll take huge success and Grant was on his way to stardom. was reunited with his mother and there were By the 1940s and with his role that year in The rumours that Elias had her committed because him” - Mae West Philadelphia Story with Katherine Hepburn, he had he had fathered a child with his mistress. Later a acted in a further 30 films. He was one of Alfred relative revealed that Elsie wrote coherent and beautifully composed Hitchcock’s preferred actors with roles in at least three of his films letters begging to be released – hardly indicative of being in an and was known for both comedic and dramatic roles. asylum. On her release, she lived in comfort to a good age. She told her son, ‘Don’t make me rich’.

During the 1950s, Grant established his own production company releasing several films and was the first to be a technically He emerged from Bristol leaving school at 14 to join Bob Pender’s independent actor, freelancing without a contract and able to troupe of comedians, forging his father’s signature to do so, learning maintain full control over his acting career. Because of the huge pantomime, comedy and acrobatics while touring in the UK and success of his films, he could work at any studio he chose for the Europe until 1920 (aged 16) when he was one of eight Pender boys remainder of his career. Some of his best-known films included chosen to go on tour in the US. The show ‘Good Times’ ran for 456 Bringing up Baby (1939), Arsenic and Old Lace (1944), An affair to performances and Grant would remain in the US when the group Remember (1957)’ North by Northwest (1959), Houseboat (1958), returned to the UK. After their departure, he quickly learnt that Operation Petticoat (1959) and That Touch of Mink (1962). He there were very few work opportunities for a performer who had spoke of his romance with Sophia Loren as being one of the most never spoken a single line on stage. Like most in his profession, he passionate romances in his life. They met while filming The Pride experienced the harsh reality of being without work, finally finding and the Passion (1957). She was 31 years younger than him and a job at a Coney Island Amusement Park, walking on stilts, and as a during the filming of Houseboat, he continued to pursue Loren who foil for various unknown comedians talking on stage at small venues. had declared her love for Carlo Ponti. >

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Apparently, Ian Fleming modelled the James Bond character with Grant in mind for the role but he turned this down at the age of 58 as he believed he was too old to star as Bond. Grant carried out most of his own stunts as he remained strong and extremely flexible due to his training as an acrobat in the very early years.

Grant retired from acting at the age of 62 when his daughter was born to focus on her upbringing and he carefully archived artifacts from her childhood in a vault inside his home. His daughter believed that this was so important to him because his childhood possessions “Everybody wants had been destroyed during the Second even I want to World War. Despite retiring, he remained active, becoming a member of the board - Cary of directors at Faberge, as well as others, such as the Academy of Magical Arts and MGM. In the last years of his life he went on tour in the US in a oneman show called Conversation with Cary Grant that included clips from his films and answering questions from the audience.

During his lifetime, Cary Grant was married five times. British girl, Virginia Cherrill, was the first, then the heiress Barbara Hutton,

followed by Betsy Drake, Dyan Cannon and Barbara Harris. Grant was 61 when he married Dyan who was 27 and it was during this marriage, which only lasted 17 months, that he became a father for the first time. Jennifer was born in 1966 and remained his only biological child.

After retiring from the movie industry, Grant never showed any interest in making a career comeback. Due to his early departure from school, Cary Grant was largely self-educated and a voracious reader throughout his life. He was considered one of the best dressed men to be Cary Grant, in the US. George Francis Frazier Jr, wrote be Cary Grant” in The Art of Wearing Clothes (Esquire magazine, Sept 1960), ‘Although Grant, Grant who is fifty-six, favors such abominations as large tie knots and claims to have originated the square-style breast-pocket handkerchief, he is so extraordinarily attractive that he looks good in practically anything’.

By chance I came face to face with Mr Grant in a Knightsbridge, London Street in 1981 and agree with a biographer, ‘no one has ever aged better’ with his fifth wife, Barbara, 46 years his junior, on his arm.

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A CENTURY IN A BOTTLE

By Jani le Roux

While life is measured in years, LOUIS XIII spans the centuries with each decanter taking four generations of cellar masters over 100 years to craft.

One hundred and fifty years elapsed between the founding of the House of Rémy Martin in 1724 and the birth of LOUIS XIII in 1874.

In 1821, in the creation of the third generation of Rémy Martin, the 21-year-old visionary director produced the first reserves of old eaux-de-vie to be kept aside for the future, a tactic unknown at that time. His son, Paul-Émile Rémy Martin I would inherit this know-how and passion, and at the apogee of a life devoted to cognac, would create LOUIS XIII.

Paul-Émile Rémy Martin

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He decided to use a unique decanter to contain this rare cognac.

The inspiration for its shape is taken from a metallic flask found at the site of the Battle of Jarnac that took place in 1569 and bought

by Paul Émile RÊmy Martin in 1850.

Born from a family vision, LOUIS XIII is amongst the most prestigious and elegant cognacs, the culmination of a masterful technique combining know-how, art, patience and expertise. LOUIS XIII is a fragrance. The fragrance of time.

Each handmade Baccarat crystal decanter is unique, recognised internationally as an international icon for its curved shape and characteristic adornments with fleurs-de-lys, a symbol of royalty.

Eleven skilled crystal masters work in perfect synchronisation to create this work of art and the neck of each decanter is embellished with 24-carat gold. Its name is a tribute to King LOUIS XIII, protector of the region, who authorised the trade of eaux-de-vie during his reign.

Exceptional Terroir LOUIS XIII is created from a blend of up to 1,200 eaux-de-vie. The grapes used to produce the eaux-de-vie, which eventually become LOUIS XIII, are harvested exclusively from the 1st cru of the six vineyards classed in the delimited region of Cognac, known as Grande Champagne.

Blessed with a perfect balance of the influences of both land and sea and a soil characterised by a high limestone content, the area symbolises the epitome of ideal conditions for vine growing. This fertile soil, sheltered from extreme climates, allows the roots of the vine to reach deep into the heart of the earth. The mild limestone character of the soil allows the vine to benefit from all its richness and finesse. The eaux-de-vie produced from grapes grown here possess exceptional ageing potential, making them the ideal building blocks for LOUIS XIII. The Art of Blending Meticulously nurtured by generations of cellar masters, LOUIS XIII is the result of a century of practice in ageing and blends. .

The process begins with the delicate task of selecting eaux-de-vie.

The cellar masters choose only those with a structure that gently expresses itself over time.

The eaux-de-vie promised to LOUIS XIII Cognac thus enter a long ageing cycle, before the sacred moment of blending; Baptiste Loiseau, the current cellar master, brings his vision of the future to bear at the precise moment when he finishes the blend, drawing on his treasure store of vintage eaux-de-vie.

Today, Loiseau is setting aside our finest eaux-de-vie, as a legacy to his successors who will continue to blend LOUIS XIII in 100 years.

The Ageing of LOUIS XIII

Louis XIII Decanter design 1850

The firework of flavours that is LOUIS XIII gains its incredible aromas from the careful blending of the best eaux-de-vie over several decades.

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Baptiste Loiseau, the current cellar master, at work.

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To taste LOUIS XIII is to discover the fragrances of time

The floral notes are courtesy of the newly created eaux-de-vie which is still untouched. It has that unique intensity that is the signature of an eau-de-vie with exceptionally long ageing potential. And already, the cellar master can detect the beginnings of delicately flavoured notes that become more refined and elegant with each passing year.

By age 20 years the fresh fruit notes such as pear now evolve into ripe fruit, like apricot and peach. Vanilla notes change into liquorice and brioche.

What was once a single eaux-de-vie is now a blend of 50, each representing two to three vintages. At this age, an ordinary eau-devie would be entering maturity, but this one is only just beginning to display its keynote flavours. The tannins in the oak cask are gradually taming the power and potential of the eau-de-vie – most vigorously at the start of the journey when the cask is new oak.

After 40 years of the long ageing process, rich notes of fruit emerge – ripe fruits at first, evolving gradually into candied fruit. Each cask is now a blend of 300 eaux-de-vie and the duty has passed to a new cellar master.

At around 70 years of age, the increasing complexity of the blend becomes apparent in the emergence of rare flavours such as mushroom and walnut.

The voices of the eaux-de-vie now sing in blended harmony. What lies ahead is a long and patient period of nursing in tierçons. There are no tannins to come from this ancient oak – just a delicate

exchange between the eau-de-vie and the air around the cask, regulated by the cask’s unusually large size and the exceptional thinness of its oak walls.

Finally, a blend of up to 1200 eaux-de-vie continuously selected and blended by four generations of LOUIS XIII cellar masters over 100 years are combined in an act of pure genius. A nectar comprised of everlasting dried flowers, dried fruit, leather, nutmeg, sandalwood, honey and wood bark – and a length of flavour to surpass all expectations.

One hundred years have done their patient work and all elements are now perfectly united in a polished and mellow, nectar-rich opulence – intense, yet refined.

The LOUIS XIII experience The first encounter with LOUIS XIII is one of sight. By letting the light filter through the crystal, it reveals the cognac’s deep mahogany colour. Then, the sense of smell comes into play. The first nose of LOUIS XIII is incredibly rich, combining floral aromas with spicy fragrances. Jasmine is a dominant note, highlighting the saffron.

LOUIS XIII features exceptional aromas evoking myrrh, honey, dried roses, plum, honeysuckle, cigar box, leather, figs and passion fruit.

Each decanter contains one hundred years of history and the inherited knowledge of those cellar masters, an invaluable product of the passage of time.

To taste LOUIS XIII is to discover the fragrances of time.

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George Malelu, from Quiteria & George - actress, Mbali Nkosi - Steve Swanepoel, Le Kap CEO and Thembi Seete, actress, singer & Le Kap ‘Celebrity Brand Ambassador’

LIFESTYLE FAIR

2017

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ALL EYES WERE FOCUSED ON JOHANNESBURG FOR THE STAR-STUDDED 2017 LE KAP LIFESTYLE FAIR

Celebrities were offered a chauffeur service by BMW South Africa and helicopter transfers by MCC Aviation

Nicole Horwood, winner of the Le Kap ‘Speed Stakes’ and Sheldon Halcrow from Nedbank Private Wealth

Bonang Matheba, Le Kap Lifestyle Fair MC and Steyn City Brand ambassodor

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The 2017 Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, labelled by the South African media as ‘the star-studded event of the century’ made its debut in Johannesburg on Saturday, the 10th of June at the fabulous Steyn City, after having been held in Cape Town for the past three years.

This extravagant and sought after occasion is synonymous with high fashion and trendsetting style, appealing to those who appreciate the finer things in life and includes a variety of presentations to attract even the most discerning guests. These incorporated a selection of fashion by some of South Africa’s top designers, food prepared by excellent chefs, superior wines and Champagne, artisanal cocktails, luxury supercars, show jumping and much more.

The Le Kap Lifestyle Fair is the most spectacular lifestyle event in South Africa and at the same time provides a powerful marketing and media platform for local and international premium brands.

Without a doubt, a winning formula!

The venue at Steyn City on the urban edge of Sandton, Johannesburg is the largest parkland lifestyle estate (2000 acres) in South Africa and provided an excellent hospitality and culinary facility, from the equestrian clubhouse with its verandah leading on to the perfectly maintained lawns. The chic atmosphere of these luxurious surroundings is ideally suited to accommodate the events and activities presented on this occasion and met every requirement.

Bonang Matheba, also known as the queen of the South African red carpet, was the MC for this glamorous event regarded as a highlight of the ‘jet-set’ calendar. Dressed in a champagne coloured beaded Gert-Johan Coetzee sleeveless gown, Bonang added her star quality to this first-class experience.

Stephanie Swanepoel from Le Kap magazine & Tbo Touch

‘We are thrilled to have Bonang on board for this exciting collaboration between Le Kap Magazine and Steyn City and to host this sophisticated annual event, which is set to attract both local and international captains of industry, celebrity and VIP guests to Steyn City’, says Giuseppe Plumari, the CEO of Steyn City. The combination of high fashion with equestrian events, food and wine is somewhat unusual, but this Fair defines the outstanding ability to manage these activities in a superior and luxurious manner. Guests included a variety of celebrities and well-known personalities and all those who attended expressed their delight and amazement with the events on display.

Three helicopters and a chauffeur driven fleet of BMW X5 SUVs

by BMW South Africa transported a multitude of celebrities and VIP guests to the location, ensuring a grand entrance. Event MC Bonang Matheba and the three official Le Kap Lifestyle Fair ‘celebrity Brand Ambassadors’, Jacques Lagrange, Lerato Kganyago and Thembi Seete arrived at the event in the Le Kap Lifestyle Fair branded helicopters courtesy of MCC Aviation. Other celebrities who arrived in the Le Kap helicopters included TV star, Pearl Thusi, Lalla Hirayama (TV presenter, actress, dancer and model), Isidingo actress Sophie Ndaba - dressed by George & Quiteria, businessman and radio DJ TBo Touch, Tebello Motsoane, more commonly known as Tibz within the entertainment and corporate industry.

Steyn City’s Tammy Menton and Le Kap magazine creative editor, Stephanie Swanepoel were both styled in custom looks by Quiteria & George while Rhythm City’s leading lady Thembi Seete wore Jacques Lagrange Couture. Pearl Thusi opted for a flowing Rubicon garment, Mbali Nkosi selected a fringe ensemble and socialite Lelo Boyana wore a long-sleeved Tuelo Nguyuza Collectiv maxi dress.

TV presenter and actress, Lalla Hirayama

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Photos from top left to right 01. Gert-Johan Coetzee & his husband, Vicky Visagie 02. Tbo Touch and his wife Nani Molefe & Thembi Seete 03. Amadou Gallo Fall (vice-president NBA Africa) & Pearl Thusi 04. Ephriam Seima and Caitlin De Ville 05. Lerato Kganyago (Le Kap Celebrity Brand Ambassodor) 06. Jaick Katz (executive producer Fashion One) & Natalia Ferrara 07. Leonie Begbie Cloete, Liezel Van Der Westhuizen & Ann Ferrera Bosman 08. Pearl Thusi (actress and television personality)

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Allie Hamied and Terence & Nthabiseng Sibiya

Dr Nandi Ndhlovu & Jörg Pfützner

The precursor to the event was a 5-course Gourmand dinner on Friday evening and prepared by chef Gerard Vigerling, the executive chef at the Palazzo Hotel Montecasino, offering a sophisticated menu paired with selected wines and bringing a distinguished group of ‘High Networth Individuals’and celebrities together for a fabulous evening as can be seen from the photos on these two pages.

Following the luxurious and cultured theme of Le Kap Lifestyle Fair on Saturday 10 June, décor specialists were contracted to reflect the appropriate image of the event sponsors. There was a beautifully appointed ‘Platinum VVIP lounge’ for celebrities, select VIP guests and the sponsors to the event.

Caitlin De Ville, the sensational electric violinist, started the affair with her stark performance and stunned her audiences with her beautiful music. Caitlin is from Zambia and has performed for both royalty and presidents in more than 25 countries during her career.

Douw & Liz Van Der Walt and Robert & Juanita Steenekamp

The fashion show presented an exclusive array of fashion of international standards and included couturiers such as Gert-Johan Coetzee, Jacques Lagrange, Warrick Gautier and Quiteria and George. The latest and most innovative designs added glamour and glitter to the scene as the models sauntered down the catwalk to an enrapt audience.

Chefs presiding over their culinary offerings, which included a live demonstration preparing their signature dishes in the chefs’ theatre, included chef Benny Masakwameng from Tsogo Sun and also a judge of the TV series - Master Chef, Australian-born chef, JaneTherese Mulry (executive chef - Saxon Hotel, Deena Naidoo from Aarya restaurants, Tsogo Sun (also South Africa’s Chef of the year in 2012), Chantel Dartnall (Mosaic restaurant) and Nathan Jacobs from the Saxon Hotel. A variety of delicious dining and picnic options gave food lovers, who were assured to find selections to suit their refined tastes, a treat. The PLATINUM VVIP Lounge and LUX Lounge guests enjoyed numerous delicious food offerings served during the day.

Platinum VVIP lounge guests were spoilt for choice, starting with Bollinger Champagne being served as the welcome drink. This was followed by liberal offerings of Rémy Martin XO, Rémy Martin VSOP, Cointreau, Rémy Martin Fine Champagne Cognac and The Botanist Gin, to name but a few. Platinum VVIP Lounge guests were invited to attend an elite tasting of LOUIS XIII, the world’s most exclusive cognac.

Allan & Loraine Lunz and George & Lia Argyropolous

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Photos from top left to right 01. Tammy Menton and Mark Williams

Photos on this page: Ashleigh Kabe

02. Moira Theart, Tim Rhoda, Leonie Begbie Cloete, Jacques Lagrange & Steve Swanepoel 03. Ephriam Seima and Wandile Janine 04. Will Mbiakop & Amadou Gallo Fall 05. Eddie Theart, Stephanie Swanepoel and Steve Swanepoel 06. Sheldon & Kirstin Halcrow 07. Robin Perks, Ron Mackenzie & Kyle Schofield

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Yvette Mason with a Le Kap guest.

Gert-Johan Coetzee with the models showcasing his collection at Le Kap

Amadou Gall Fall (Vice president NBA Africa) and Chef Benny Masekwameng

LOUIS XIII - the world’s most exclusive spirit was on offer to Le Kap VVIP guests

Nicole Horwood, ‘Speed Stakes’ winner recieving the winners cup from Aidan Lithgow

Peter & Peta Eggierth-Symes and Angela Yeung

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Caitlin De Ville

Chef Chantel Dartnall from Mosaic Restaurant at the Orient Hotel

was spectacular. Fine horses, outstanding horsemanship and a beautifully constructed course in these settings were superb.

The presentation of the latest luxury vehicles by luxury manufacturers is an extraordinary opportunity for showcasing their latest prestigious models and Bentley was the official automobile brand partner during the 2013 and 2104 events. In 2015, Lamborghini was the ‘Associate Sponsor’ and chose that occasion to reveal a new model in South Africa. BMW South Africa was the official vehicle sponsor of this year’s Le Kap Lifestyle Fair and they exhibited a number of their luxury cars.

Chef Deena Naidoo, Aarya restaurant - Tsogo Sun

South African wines are amongst the best in the world and premium wine producers offered wine tasting throughout the occasion.

These included Anthonij Rupert Wines, Tokara, Paul Cluver Wines, Mulderbosch, Rust en Vrede, De Wetshof, Saronsburg, Meerlust and Haute Cabriere, all of whom provided an award-winning selection.

The wines were available to purchase by the bottle or case, directly from the participating wine estates.

Horses, and in this case showjumping is the sport of choice for many of the elite and there is a high participation rate and following in South Africa. To the delight of many horse enthusiasts, the accredited ‘Speed Stakes’, which included some of our country’s top riders

Steve Swanepoel, CEO of Le Mag Publications and publishers of Le Kap magazine, said, ‘The day was extremely successful, particularly taking into consideration that this was the first presentation of Le Kap Lifestyle Fair in Johannesburg. We are delighted with the positive response we have received from both the press, as well as guests who attended the event. The event is set to become a fixture on the Johannesburg social calendar and we are already planning our return next year’.

Also, he added, ‘The event was made even more successful with the participation of our event partners being Steyn City and our various sponsors; Nedbank Private Wealth, Nedbank Commercial and Investment Banking, LOUIS XIII, Rémy Martin, Bollinger Champagne, Cruises International, Tsogo Sun, Embassy Direct, MCC Aviation, The Botanist Islay Dry Gin, Heineken, Coca Cola South Africa, Lancôme, Biolage, Meridian Private Access, Bruichladdich and Cointreau’.

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MASTERPIECE OF THE SEVEN SEAS Regent Seven Seas Cruises has redefined what it refers to as ‘true luxury’ following the launch last year of the luxury all-inclusive cruise ship, the Seven Seas Explorer. The ship, officially christened by Her Serene Highness, Princess Charlene of Monaco, embarked on her maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Venice in July 2016 and her glamorous silhouette will soon grace South African ports when she visits towards the end of next year.

‘Simply breathtaking’ is cruise connoisseur Attie Swanepoel’s description of the new Regent Seven Seas Explorer, which is scheduled to arrive in Cape Town on 21 December 2018 for the South African leg of her itinerary.

Attie, who hails from the Cape, has sailed with Regent before – as well as with other cruise lines – but when he heard about ‘the most luxurious ship ever built’ he just had to experience it for himself.

‘Seven Seas Explorer was honestly the best ship we’ve been on,’ says

Attie, ‘The food was extraordinary, the service excellent and the entertainment fantastic. The cruise surpassed our expectations.’

One of the most outstanding impressions, remembers Attie, is the exquisite attention to materials, design and detail that created such a ‘magnificent masterpiece.’

And a masterpiece she is, especially considering that this ship - each suite has its own private balcony - carries only 750 guests, offering one of the highest space and crew-to-guest ratios in the industry. With 552 crew members on hand, this translates into unprecedented levels of personalised service and is one of the real hallmarks of exclusivity according to Janine Pretorius, sales agent for Regent Seven Seas Cruises in South Africa.

In catering to the diverse requirements of sophisticated world travellers, the ship has 375 spacious suites – featuring cashmere,

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Italian Carrera marble and the largest private verandas offered in the cruise industry. Accommodation ranges from the impeccably designed 307 square-foot Veranda Suites, starting from USD 1 450 per night on a 10-night October 2017 voyage in the Med, for example, to the nearly 4 500 square-foot Regent Suite, a new category of luxury suite at the highest end of the tier. Between these options guests can select from different suites, such as the Concierge Suites, available at USD 1 700 per night for the same sailing or the elegant Penthouse Suites at USD 2 200 per night.

‘There’s only one Regent Suite and it’s usually booked well in advance,’ elaborates Janine. The entire front area of Deck 14, atop the ship’s bow, is taken up by this USD 10 500-a-night suite, she says. The two-bedroom, three-bathroom suite features two Picasso lithographs, a custom Steinway piano designed by Dakota Jackson, a USD 150 000 bed (USD 90 000 of that is the Savoir mattress) and a first for any cruise ship - a private en-suite spa. Guests, therefore,

PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE 1. Wishing Regent Seven Seas Explorer well on her inaugural journey: from left: Frank Del Rio, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings president and CEO; H.S.H Albert II, the Sovereign Prince of Monaco; H.S.H. Princess Charlene of Monaco; Captain Stanislas Gerard Jean Mercier De Lacombe; and Jason Montague, president and COO of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

2. The magnificent Observation Lounge

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have unlimited access to ceramic heated relaxation loungers, a sauna, a multi-jet shower, an oversized hot tub and complimentary en-suite treatments from the Canyon Ranch Spa Club.

The privileges of booking this premium suite extend beyond its doors, as the inclusive amenities encompass the use of a private car, with driver and guide, for excursions in every port, as well as a butler service and laundry and pressing.

At the launch of Seven Seas Explorer, Jason Montague, president and chief operating officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, explains, ‘The opulence and elegance of the Regent Suite are unmatched in the luxury holiday segment and it truly epitomises the vision we have for the entire vessel. With Seven Seas Explorer we set out to build a ship that by far surpasses the current standard for luxury and bears the distinction of being the most luxurious ship ever to set sail.’

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Janine agrees that the ship is one-of-a-kind. ‘The crystal chandeliers alone–such as the chandelier of hand-blown Murano glass lighting the main dining room–are dazzling, infusing the experience with a sense of grandeur at every step.’

There are 80 chefs on board who conjure up sophisticated menus, bursting with lobster, caviar, foie gras and escargot. The aim was to create a unique collection of speciality restaurants, such as the dramatic Pan-Asian restaurant, Pacific Rim. Here diners can try a tempura-encrusted crispy soft-shell crab with a touch of heat from a green chilli aioli or a succulently caramelised cassia-braised pork belly, topped with grilled diver scallops.

The French speciality restaurant, Chartreuse, aims to evoke memories of a chic Parisian fine dining restaurant discovered during an evening stroll along the Seine or just off the Champs-Élysées.

And at the signature Compass Rose, the largest on the ship, guests will find 400 specially-designed Versace place settings and a menu

MAIN IMAGE The Master Suite: with its chic Park Avenue style, replete with rosewood polished furniture and crystal chandeliers, this two-bedroom suite features a modern sophisticated and elegant design.

PHOTOS ON OPPOSTE PAGE 1. The Canyon Ranch Spa Club infinity pool serves as a dramatic focal point, as it contours with the ship’s stern.

2. The Regent Suite comes complete with an in-room spa retreat, a first at sea, and features an outdoor, glass enclosed sitting area.

3. In the Pacific Rim restaurant lobby, visitors encounter a modern interpretation of a Tibetan prayer wheel that sets the mood for artfully plated Pan-Asian creations.

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sharing creations such as bourbon-marinated Black Angus beef strip loin and Dover sole.

As with all Regent cruises the cruise fare is fully-inclusive.

The moment guests step aboard, it is all paid for: fine dining, wine and premium spirits, room service, staff gratuities, shore excursions, entertainment, lectures and unlimited Wi-Fi. Canyon Ranch Spa Club treatments are not included in the rate.

Referring to the 55 254-ton luxury liner that cost USD 450 million to build Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Regent’s parent company, believes there is no shame, neither in wealth nor in the over-the-top extravagances on the Seven Seas Explorer.

Then again, there are also those subtle indulgences on the ship that may not even be noticed by passengers at first glance. ’The closer you look, the more you see how much went into this ship,’ says Janine.

And therein lies much of her allure.

IMAGE ON LEFT The enormous marquee chandelier guests see as they arrive onboard contains 6,000 hand-placed octagons of glass in a fixture that reaches 13 feet to the ceiling and is ten feet across.

IMAGE BELOW For entertaining friends onboard, the living room in the Regent Suite features a marble bar and a custom Steinway Arabesque piano against a backdrop of uninterrupted floor-to-ceiling windows. A media centre includes an oversized flat-screen 4K ultra high-definition television along with a collection of limited-edition art books, artifacts and Murano glass bowls.

Ports of call in SA After arriving in South African waters on 21 December 2018, The Seven Seas Explorer remains in Cape Town for two days before departing to Luderitz and Walvis Bay in Namibia.

She arrives in Port Elizabeth on 29 December and then she is off to East London, Durban, Maputo (Mozambique), Richards Bay and Mossel Bay, returning to Cape Town on 6 January 2019.

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NEDBANK PRIVATE WEALTH ‘An international Wealth Manager with a rich heritage’

In 2004, Vince Boulle took over the leadership of a business with an extensive and rich history in the wealth management industry.

‘On my first day on the job, what pleasantly surprised me was the team’s depth of knowledge about wealth management and their assiduous passion for servicing clients.’

Although the Nedbank Private Wealth brand was launched during October 2012, its heritage dates back to 1834, with the establishment of the South African Association for the Administration and Settlement of Estates, one of the oldest trust companies in the world. In 1967 there was a merger between Syfrets Trust and The South African Association for the Administration and Settlement of Estates. BoE Private Clients was established on 1 January 2003 when six business entities namely: BoE Personal Stockbrokers, BoE Private Bank, FT NIB Private Clients, Nedbank Syfrets Wealth Management, Old Mutual Trust and Syfrets Trust Limited were merged. Today, Nedbank Private Wealth is the result of the merger between four well established businesses formerly known as BoE Private Clients, Fairbairn Private Bank Limited, Fairbairn Trust Company Limited and Fairbairn Trust Limited.

A focus on providing exclusive services to high net worth and ultrahigh net worth clients Trained as a chartered accountant, Vince has accumulated experience in private banking and wealth management, having been in the industry for over 20 years. He joined the Nedbank group in April 2004 as regional head of BoE Private Clients for KwaZulu-Natal and became Managing Director in November 2004. He has been responsible for the local Wealth Management Division within Nedbank since 2009, a division that includes Nedbank Private Wealth, Nedbank Financial Planning and Nedgroup Trust.

Nedbank Private Wealth is the specialist wealth management offering of the Nedbank Group. Its objective is to provide exclusive services to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals. The services span across banking, fiduciary, investments, insurance and philanthropy. Nedbank Private Wealth is able to offer integrated international solutions as a result of its presence in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the United Arab Emirates. The international business is headed by Greg Horton and has received numerous accolades.

Most recently, at the 2017 International Advisor Product and Service Awards, Nedbank Private Wealth International was delighted to win International Bank of the Year. The bank beat a number of illustrious competitors to be recognised for excellence in offering crossborder products and services for advisors with international and/or expatriate clients.

‘Historically, clients were focused on private banking but this has shifted to holistic wealth management and financial planning advice.

Relationships are important in this business but adding value is critical. Clients are more sophisticated and educated and we need to ensure that we are adding value and providing sound advice based on our clients’ needs.’

‘I am interested in the interrelationship between economic, financial, political and geo-political forces that impact clients and their wealth, due to an unpredictable environment. As an international wealth manager, we are continually challenged by an ever-changing macroeconomic environment and the shifting needs of our clients.

However, we are proud of our wealth management offering and believe that we are well placed to continue managing our clients’ wealth into the future.’ ‘I often travel between our local and international operations. The most notable trend that I have

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seen is that from the social upheaval in some South American countries to uncertainty in European politics and the slowdown in the Chinese Economy, many of our challenges as South Africans are playing out in the global economy. Therefore, having a global perspective is important when we reflect and respond to the issues.’

A leader with vision, passion and a level head Leading a wealth management business is exciting but also very demanding. As an avid sportsman, Vince says that he balances work with adventure sports. He has completed two Tour de Tuli mountain bike tours and a number of Sani2c’s cycle races. His most memorable Sani2c was in 2014 when his wife, Angela, took up mountain biking specifically to do Sani2c with him as his 50th birthday present. He has just recently completed his first Joberg2c this year.

‘I’ve also completed a number of Dusi canoe marathons, with my most memorable one being in 2013 when I partnered with my 15-year-old son at the time for his first Dusi marathon. I believe that sport is a critical component of a balanced and fulfilled life, providing opportunities for family to play and bond together and reduce stress in our busy lives. It also provides time for me to reflect and gain perspective, as well as the opportunity to integrate and give back to our communities.’

‘As an international wealth manager, Nedbank Private Wealth is focused on developing and delivering integrated and holistic wealth creation and management solutions that not only have an immediate impact on the clients we serve now,’ he concludes, ‘but also enable them to leave a positive legacy for their immediate family members, future generations and the broader community.’

Vince Boulle

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A HUNGARIAN RETREAT

By Nicolene Richards

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is one of the largest cities in the EU. It is both a city and a county as it is the centre of the Budapest Metropolitan Area measuring 7,626 km2. Considered as an Alphaglobal city, it is famous for its beauty, cultural institutions and museums. This is a city of secrets and fascinating discoveries to the avid tourist and attracts over four million visitors each year.

However, nothing defines it better than the thermal spas dotted around the city. No other country in Europe boasts quite as many spas as Hungary. There are approximately 80 geothermal springs and the world’s largest thermal water system with 118 springs providing over 70 million litres of water, with a temperature of between 21–78 degrees Celcius, is also located here. The Romans were the first to colonise the area west of the Danube River, mainly so that they could make use of and enjoy the thermal springs. In the 16th century, during their occupation, the Turkish Ottomans introduced and constructed many bathing facilities and Budapest remains one of the few places with the original Turkish bathhouses in use today. For this reason, Budapest acquired the title as a City of Spas in the 1920s for both bathing and medicinal purposes, as well as attracting visitors for a unique thermal experience. All these baths are filled with mineral water, believed to assist with many health conditions such as improving skin tone, relieving tension, reducing blood pressure and helping with calcium deficiencies.

One of these excellent spas is situated in the basement of the luxurious, grand and imposing 5-star Corinthia Hotel, owned by the Corinthia Group. This historic hotel first opened in 1898, attracting the elite of 19th-century society and has been extensively modified over time. It is recommended as a place to spend a few days simply enjoying the luxury of an establishment of this stature. The expansive interior spaces are breathtaking on entering through the establishment’s neo-classical façade. The spacious lobby with its pale marble colouring, features a broad and sweeping centrepiece staircase and the two glass-covered atriums further lend to its light and airy feeling of sophistication. It’s a fine establishment, with an excellent reputation, that caters for wealthy and distinguished guests, including numerous celebrities and famous statesmen.

Apart from the spa treatments on offer, it is well situated within easy reach of most attractions on the Grand Boulevard.

This hotel is one of the grandest in the city and the available facilities will satisfy the most selective of guests. Three elegant eateries offer gourmet Hungarian, Asian and delectable international dining experiences. There are two bars and, for international businesses, the largest conference facilities in the city are to be found here.

These are also available for weddings or other special events. The impressive Grand Ballroom has been restored to its former glory and is richly decorated in a Baroque Style. Impeccable service is, of

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course, available always and the rooms are as classy as everything else in this hotel. The Executive rooms include access to the Executive Lounge with complimentary snacks and drinks available.

The jewel in the crown of the Corinthia Hotel is the Luxurious Royal Spa with its 15-metre indoor swimming pool situated in the basement. The old spa originally opened in 1886 and operated until 1944. Superbly renovated in 2006, this 1,000m2 spa now offers a vast variety of beauty and therapeutic body treatments. Facilities include the pool, saunas, steam room, jacuzzis, eight massage salons, a dry floating bed, Niagara bathtub and tropical showers, as well as a fitness room. The spa is the perfect place to relax once you have experienced the smooth and efficient check-in procedure for Executive Club guests.

Only the finest and purest products are offered on an extensively indulgent menu of 21st-century wellness treatments and agedefying technology reigns supreme here, leaving you with a freshlooking face and completely rejuvenated skin. This tranquil area has more than ample room to stretch out on a ‘chaise longue’ next to the thermal pool and indulge in peaceful relaxation. If you are pushed for time, indulge in the Salt & Oil scrub followed by the Espa Body ritual to rid yourself of all toxins and then take a dip in the indoor pool before your return to surrender to a lifting and >

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firming treatment, followed by a rehydrating and purifying facial and herbal massage. It is absolute nirvana for mind and body.

For a little additional pampering, enrol in a one-on-one yoga class to rid yourself of anything else that weighs you down and live into each movement to alleviate any tension.

Planned and constructed by the architect Vilmos Freund in 1886, it offered steam baths, wave and shower baths, electric baths, a pneumatic chamber and a medical room with cold water. The spa was initially independent and direct access was offered to hotel guests as from 1903. The spa, designed by Freund who was declared insolvent after WW I, operated until 1944. In 1983, the abandoned spa was rediscovered and Janos Dianocski thankfully rejected the proposal to use the spa as a car park, leading to its restoration and refurbishment to become a destination on its own. The spa menu is superbly indulgent and the full benefit and variety of treatments on offer will require quite a few days to experience.

The hotel, originally known as the Royal, was revived by the Corinthia Group who re-established it as a veritable monument of excellence, leading to its rebirth in 2006. The renovation was performed with the original grandeur in mind, turning this grand old dame into a true Bastion of Budapest. The Corinthia Hotel was lovingly restored and lavishly improved at an exhorbitant cost exceeding 100 million euros.

Virtually no stone was left unturned in sourcing material from all over the world to restore it to its former glory with the sensitive use of materials and equipment. Italian limestone and Spanish marble were laid in the public rooms and Grand Ballroom and some of the carpets were sourced from South Africa. Furthermore, the hotel is adorned by beautiful Slovakian furniture. A grand piano serves as a centrepiece in one of the many open spaces, creating intimate corners where you can enjoy the languid sounds of the pianist while enjoying afternoon tea. All the facilities are in absolute keeping with a luxury hotel, while maintaining its historic past.

Concentrating on wellness and beauty treatments, with the focus on the water, including the 15-metre pool, jacuzzis, Finnish saunas and a steam bath, you will hardly find time to be bored. Whether it’s for a sensory facial massage or an indulgent pampering consisting of exfoliating, scrubbing and cleansing, the restorative treatments on offer are guaranteed to bring calmness and remove any feelings of tension from life’s everyday demands, leaving you supercharged and ready to explore this fascinating city. Most attractions are within walking distance, otherwise, allow the hotel’s exceptional concierge service to assist you in making a choice. A tour or a private river cruise down the Danube, while you sit back and absorb the aweinspiring architecture viewed from the river, is essential for any tourist. Drinking in the beauty of this fabulous city will certainly leave you feeling relaxed and revitalised.

Erik Laubscher, Evening Landscape Estimate R 400 000 - 600 000

Now inviting consignments Important South African & International Art, Decorative Arts & Jewellery Auction in Cape Town, 16 October 2017 Entries close mid-July Enquiries/Valuations 021 683 6560 | ct@straussart.co.za | www.straussart.co.za

Strauss & Co: The global leader in the South African art market

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THE ART OF COLLECTION

By Marion Pfeiffer

H

istorians and collectors alike agree that collectors have existed since the beginning of human culture and may even argue that it goes as far back as when collecting was simply a practical matter of gathering food. However, today collecting has emerged as an activity or interest that was undertaken for intellectual, artistic and emotional satisfaction.

Frequently, the collections that are the most intriguing are those that are built around a genuine interest in the work itself. The most successful and renowned collections are not assembled for financial reasons, but by those who follow their hearts and purchase objects and create an impressive collection over an extended period of time. There is a distinction between the buying of art and collecting it. The former is based on attraction or preference at any given moment while collecting is a long-term commitment to purchase what will form a meaningful grouping, that is, a collection. Famous collectors have the talent to select and group their art so that each piece commands premium attention, not only because of its individual quality but because of the company it keeps. Also, they document each piece carefully so that its history is evident, adding to its value and the understanding of the work.

What is certain is that most collectors share several characteristics that cause them to seek to collect the chosen items. Firstly, for some reason, they are obsessed in acquiring the object of their desire and

will be focussed and determined to obtain it. The famous art dealer, Lord Duveen, while standing in front of J W Turner’s Bridge and Tower, famously proclaimed ‘If I owned that picture, I should want for nothing else in the world’. However, it is essential for any aspiring collector to be aware that the art market has minimal forms of regulation and illegal practices flourish and when buying, it is vital to have done the research to evaluate any potential drawback related to your purchase. Gather information about what is great art, listen to those around you, be observant, socialise and surround yourself with the movers and shakers in the art world who will have information that is not available to many. Get to know the galleries and should you become a regular customer, discounts and recommendations will come your way. Collecting art does not typically make money quickly, so the real value is the pleasure of owning that beautiful piece. Buying the best that you can is essential, even if it is only one item, rather than buying several mediocre artworks.

Most people will start to collect based on passion and for many, once they have begun, it becomes an addiction. Frequently, the first piece bought becomes the most treasured and the investment value is of little importance. It is the association with the object and its origin that makes it valuable to the purchaser and this reason may be unique to him or her alone.

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Today, collections internationally are no longer confined to only artwork. An example is the collection of 1 700 snuff bottles collected

by Mary and George Bloch, one of the most significant collections of snuff bottles internationally, with prices often exceeding all expectations when bought or sold. The incentive for a collection such as this is not likely to have been for financial gain, but simply for their pleasure. Paintings, sculptures, vintage cars, jewellery, Matchbox toy cars, books, stamps, items related to a period in history from another culture, for example Egyptian memorabilia, these and many more have been collected and form an impressive display. Some are handed down through families who cherish them as part of their history while others may be donated by bequest to national trusts, museums or other institutions that they have chosen to receive the collection of a lifetime. The Bodleian Library in Oxford is one such example. Founded in the 14th Century with a small collection of books this library, which occupies five buildings, has grown to hold over 12 million books donated over centuries, with the first collection of small chained books received from the estate of Thomas Cobham, Bishop of Worcester (d. 1327).

The US philanthropist J Paul Getty stated, ‘After acquiring a large number of examples of fine art, one develops conscience pangs about keeping them to oneself.’ Many noted collectors agree that the need to possess often changes into an overwhelming need to share what they have amassed, leading to the opening of galleries, in their names, that are devoted only to their collections. These dedicated museums can be found all over the world and although it may merely be a status symbol for the super-rich, for others it is for a more philanthropic reason. Coinciding with some of these collections and dedicated museums or exhibitions are fascinating books describing how these were collected and sometimes family histories of how the collection and desire to collect continued through the generations. Of course, alongside this, these books offer insider information about the process, how to negotiate the market and on where to source the items and the best methods to achieve this, whether you are a collector of limited means or one with substantial resources available.

Common to most discussions regarding collecting art is the theme that buying for investment only does not provide satisfaction. Gut reaction and falling in love with the work must come first. Another interesting fact is that despite the global recession, the market for art continues to grow and there is even more competition. Those who are active are still buying. The investment potential of paintings by old masters cannot be underestimated. Good Italian Renaissance and French 18th Century pictures may have up to 50 per cent left in terms of an investment. Another rather perplexing question is why contemporary art is fetching such high prices, higher than those of the old masters as the latter cannot be replaced and many believe that the contemporary art bubble will burst soon. However, many collectors argue that the contemporary art, which is their passion now, is a matter of looking forward, not backwards or engaging with our culture that is now. Furthermore, sometimes this is an issue between your stomach, your heart and your head and it just compels you to purchase the piece.

Collecting requires single-minded passion, the conviction to purchase items to last a lifetime and bring great pleasure to the owner. Furthermore, it takes time and research in the selection and often the advice of a trusted intermediary or friend with experience in the art world. Visit galleries, museums, auction houses and lectures to learn about your subject or artist to develop your instinct for what it is that touches your soul and will keep doing this for your lifetime.

Once you have started, it will be very difficult to stop!

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FOR YOUNG MEN IN A HURRY ...

‘Black Badge is an attitude to life, an aspect of the Rolls-Royce brand that appeals to those people who are elusive and defiant, the risk takers and disruptors who break the rules and laugh in the face of convention. They are driven by a restless spirit.’

By Richard Webb

Well, that’s the public relations message from Rolls-Royce. I’m immediately intrigued, what with my harbouring a life-long fascination with the Spirit of Ecstasy. It got me wondering if I could be the kind of person they are targeting for this car? I’ve certainly got a restless spirit. Those close to me have also called me elusive and defiant – occasionally even in a good way. My schoolteacher often labelled me disruptive. I’ve also tried laughing in the face of convention but it hasn’t always ended well.

But….am I keen to defy convention? Not really. I have been wearing Issey Miyake as my signature Eau de Cologne for almost a quarter of a century. It’s become a habit – a warm revisiting of the familiar, exotic and comforting as much as it is luxurious. It was one of the great pleasures of the age - and it still is. Hardly Avant-garde, am I? Unlike perfume, though, other luxuries are far more visible - more in your face. However, true luxury lies less in opulence and wealth and more in the absence of vulgarity. As Coco Chanel put it, ‘Vulgarity is the ugliest word in our language. I stay in the game to fight it’.

I love luxury. And, why wouldn’t I? After all, what is the point of all the money in the world if you don’t have the freedom to experience the things you may just love? That leads me neatly back to the RollsRoyce. A more brooding, noir take on Rolls-Royce I have never seen, and it’s reserved for today’s generation of young - read the late 20s to early 40s - self-confident, self-empowered rule breakers that are ‘just as uncompromising and unapologetic in their choice of living and lifestyle as their predecessors.’

Among those predecessors are Charles Rolls himself, along with Yves Saint Laurent, Sir Malcolm Campbell, Howard Hughes and Keith Moon. ‘Their life is their entertainment, and they live it on their own terms,’ says the blurb.

Given the average age of buyers of the brand used to be 55 and is now down to 43, this is a significant demographic shift. This RollsRoyce is as close to an outright performance model, as the brand has ever created, but it’s not all plain sailing for this noblest of brands. Not only is Rolls-Royce appealing to new, younger buyers who have no history with the brand, but it must ensure it doesn’t offend the loyalists who expect a bit of, erm, decorum, darling…

The demand for this car has come from newly-monied, youthful buyers who have been pestering the Goodwood, West Sussex based company for an edgy, less stately, more coiled type of Roller.

The Black Badge series is Goodwood’s measured response. There’s no production limit on Black Badge model production, but it will have additional layers of complexity and will thus be more timeconsuming to craft than a ‘normal’ car.

We all know that nice words and appearances don’t mean that someone is nice. Some believe that the nicer you look, the more deceptive you appear. In the same way, this may be Rolls-Royce’s alter-ego. The Black Badge has attitude in spades, with its dastardly dark-themed cabin trim. Eye-wateringly expensive composite work - with ‘technical weave’ dashboard panels blend Nano-thin slivers of aluminium with carbon fibre. It’s an exquisite place to be.

The changes go yet deeper – with adjustments to both the chassis set up and powertrain for extra performance credentials to go with the styling changes. The control software for the air suspension has been reworked to resist body roll more swiftly upon turn-in to a corner, which works in conjunction with the changes to its damper rates in complimenting other software tweaks.

The Wraith’s twin-turbo 6.6-litre V12 is already the most powerful Rolls-Royce model produced thus far, so although there is some 70Nm additional torque on offer, the power output remains the same.

The difference is that engineers have deliberately allowed a little of the V12’s formidable aural entertainment into the cabin than beforeeven though it only makes itself heard under heavy acceleration.

A brand new eight-speed automatic gearbox alters the timing and speed of shifting gear according to how enthusiastically the driver sinks the pedal into the posh carpet. This does away with the legacy of Rolls’ traditional chauffeur-centric, deliberate delay built into the regular Wraith’s initial acceleration response.

There is little else that ‘cuts it’ with such a dash. Even though the car is all about showing off, it’s certainly not vulgar. It’s here where Coco Chanel and I would have had something in common. Neither of us would have been in the Black Badge target market, as much as I’d love to fit the criteria.

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You can order a Black Badge in any colour, including white, but the signature colour is, quite understandably, black, with shiny chrome forsaken in favour of glossy black.

This is no track-day car. It weighs nearly 2.5 tonnes, but the Wraith’s handling balance is impressive, yet easy-going and super-comfortable.

Rolls-Royce may be apprehensive about the brand-appropriateness of this meaner-looking, faster-travelling Wraith, but its designers and engineers have fulfilled the customer-led brief very neatly.

Price-wise, it will add a wedge to the price of the standard car (why do I feel uncomfortable using the word standard in this context), but price very seldom factors into the decision-making triggers of Rolls-Royce buyers.

The first model to get the badge was the Wraith coupe, followed by the Ghost Saloon. Expect similar treatment to be meted out to the upcoming Cullinan SUV.

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I

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n 1933, in a move that signalled the truly bespoke nature of the company from an early stage, Sir Henry Royce changed the Double R badge from the traditional Red-on-Silver to Black-on-Silver to ensure it

would not clash with the paintwork colour choice of highprofile customers, including the then Prince of Wales.

Now the Spirit of Ecstasy and the iconic Double R lead the way once more as Rolls-Royce enters the alternative reality of ‘Black Badge’. On the surface, both Ghost Black Badge and Wraith Black Badge go through a very similar transformation.

‘Today, I am announcing that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will create a permanent bespoke series of motor cars for a group of young, driven, self-made people that will make a bold and edgy lifestyle statement about their lives,’ commented Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. ‘With Black Badge, we have created the most powerful presence on the luxury landscape. It is a truly transformative moment for our great brand,’ he says.

Hot on the heels of this announcement, Rolls-Royce South Africa opened its boutique store at the Daytona showrooms at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, where it showcased the Dawn, the Ghost - and for a limited time - the super-luxury Wraith Black Badge. Justin Divaris, CEO of the Daytona Group, South Africa says, ‘Rolls-Royce SA is committed to delivering truly progressive experiences to Cape Town’s most eminent men and women. We have brought the Rolls-Royce brand to Cape Town to not only showcase the elite range of unique motor cars, but to also present for the very first time the Wraith Black Badge, which has received worldwide hype and attention. It is a truly transformative moment for a great brand and we couldn’t be more excited about it’.

Giles Taylor, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars commented, ‘In creating Black Badge, we were conscious of satisfying the different demands of these new customers.

They demand an alternative image and authentic RollsRoyce engineering substance to underpin it’.

Rolls-Royce designers, engineers and craftspeople set to work, transforming the Ghost and Wraith in subtly different ways that at first glance offer very distinctive, common visual cues to their nature. During deceleration or braking, the transmission downshifts a few rpm sooner, providing the extra security of added engine braking, thereby delivering a more spirited drive.

Stephanie Swanepoel from Le Kap magazine admiring the Wraith ‘Black Badge’

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THE COOLEST HOTEL IN THE WORLD

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If you are looking for something completely different for your holiday this year, a visit to the original iconic ICEHOTEL may be a unique choice for those seeking to do something dramatically distinctive. For this experience, a trip to Jukkasjärvi in Sweden, 200 km north of the Arctic Circle is required. Historically, the town of Jukkasjärvi was an important marketplace and its name means ‘meeting place by the water’ referring to the renowned Torne River.

A stay at the ICEHOTEL may be a superb once in a lifetime experience, although many of us in South Africa may not understand the appeal of sleeping in temperatures below zero.

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By Daphne McFarlane

The story of the ICEHOTEL started in 1989. The town has a range of summer wilderness activities, such as river rafting on the Torne River, for tourists but the winters are long and extremely cold.

Ynqve Bergqvist, later the founder of the ICEHOTEL, developed ice sculpting workshops inspired by the Japanese ice sculpting tradition and the first workshop took place in 1989 when he invited artists to attend the event. The following winter the first ice structure appeared in the form of a 60m2 igloo, named Artic Hall, on the Torne River. The Artic Hall was used as an art gallery initially but as its reputation grew, it was also used as a church, as a movie venue and even as a bar. The Igloo developed to measure 250m2 and the technique for building it had been refined and patented in Sweden and Norway. A group of guests made a request to sleep in the hall. They were equipped with reindeer skins and sleeping bags and the following morning declared it to have been an incredible experience and so created the idea of the ICEHOTEL. Every year, when the winter arrives in Jukkasjärvi, the ICEHOTEL is reborn. The crystal-clear water from the Torne River could have been specifically fashioned for the creation of this exclusive hotel.

Only ice that grows downwards is selected. The slow and natural freezing of the water means that the ice is free from bubbles and cracks and because of the region, free from any pollutants. In the last months of the previous winter, huge blocks of ice are cut

from the river, each weighing about two tons and stored in anticipation of the start of building. Each year there is a contest for artists to submit their plans for the art suites and the winners travel to Jukkasjärvi to realise their visions. Plans and drawings are prepared each May and at the end of November artists arrive in the town to realise the ideas in the construction process. Builders and artists embark on a process of hectic chopping, cutting and sculpting to create their visions, probably accompanied by a fair amount of Schnapps. ‘Snice’, a mixture of snow and ice is made from the water from the river and sprayed on to moulds that are removed once it has consolidated, so in fact, the ICEHOTEL is a freestanding ice structure. The walls are one metre thick and rooms take a classic catenary arch shape, are self-supporting and incredibly resilient.

Each room is filled with the right amounts of snow and ice so that the artists can start working immediately and six weeks later the ICEHOTEL, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, is ready for visitors. So, each year a brand-new hotel appears as the previous building melts away into the earth.

The hotel was originally opened annually from December to April.

However, due to demand, Bergqvist has created sustainable accommodation in part of the ICEHOTEL throughout the year.

Today, ICEHOTEL 365 is a permanent construction measuring 2 100m2 offering luxury suites to guests, each with a private sauna

LE KAP

and bathroom, as well as art suites. Each suite is hand carved by international artists and the building itself is astonishing with iconic vaulted architecture combined with traditional construction methods, allowing the exterior to be in perfect harmony with the surroundings. This ice experience can be visited all year round and is cooled by solar panels during the summer months, so it remains at a steady minus five degrees Celsius. However, you need to book your stay up to a year in advance as it is fully booked every year.

During the day, rooms are open to visitors, so guests do not keep their possessions in the rooms and it becomes more of a museum, even offering a guided tour to explain the construction process. Surprisingly, there are both cold and warm rooms, and it is suggested that the first night be spent in a cold room so that the following night one can be sure of a good night’s sleep. Cold room guests check in at a dressing room where lockers are provided along with a large seating area, fireplace, bathroom facilities, saunas and dressing areas. Guests are provided with warm clothing including mittens, boots and coveralls designed for the temperatures.

Activities such as dog and reindeer sledding, snowmobiling, ice sculpting and horse riding, among others, are available for those more adventurous individuals. The temperature inside the hotel remains a steady minus five degrees Celsius. When you are ready to turn in, super warm sleeping bags with a tube sheet inside them

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are provided. It is suggested that you do not miss the ‘how to survive the night in negative five degrees Celsius tour!’ Thermal nightwear is also a good idea. The beds are cold platforms of ice with foam sleeping pads and reindeer pelts and most visitors find that they warm up quickly – the cold only seeps in when you turn over. After your night in minus five degrees Celsius, you receive a certificate from the ICEHOTEL for your memory box.

Now is the time to move into a warm room and there are three types available: artic chalets, kaamos rooms and Nordic chalets, with all the comforts of a regular hotel room with private bathrooms.

Furnishings will remind you where you are and include icicle shaped lamps and lights and there is even an icicle-shaped cut-out in the shower drain.

Champagne and cocktails at the original ICEBAR, established in 1994, is another new experience. The glasses are made of ice and cocktails are created with Nordic ingredients, according to the art suite themes of the year. The dance floor is ice. Each year the ICEBAR by ICEHOTEL takes on a new guise, so no bar is like the previous one. Each design is astounding as the creators strive to achieve a new and stunning creation, celebrating the history of the hotel and artists around the world, with inspiration coming from architecture, music and theatre.

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The ICEHOTEL Restaurant sources all its ingredients locally from the rivers, marshes and forests, offering delicacies like reindeer, moose, Arctic char – a cold water fish - and bramble berries with cosmopolitan touches and added to menus designed by Michelintrained head chef Alexander Meier. Choice includes that from the a la carte menu or you can book a specially designed and crafted dining experience, for example, the chef’s table, ice dining or wilderness dinner.

And, of course, ice from the Torne River in the form of dĂŠcor, dishes and bowls will take their place at your table. The rustic Homestead Restaurant, also a museum and favoured by locals, dates back to 1768 and is equipped with a charcoal-fired oven for producing dishes like those found in a typical steakhouse. Simple comfort food is prepared with style and care for your pleasure.

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Of course, a stay at the ICEHOTEL must include an excursion to see the Northern Lights as they dance, twist, flare, retreat and reappear whirling across the sky. The hotel is also becoming a chosen destination for weddings.

The Ice Church returns to the river each spring and then is reborn each winter, with special celebrations. Summer and autumn landscapes are as spectacular, especially the reds and oranges of the autumn season and the magical glow of the midnight sun adds another dramatic aspect to enthral visitors.

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Marlon Brando

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The history of Jeans 'The canvas of personal expression'

By Steve Swanepoel

No item of clothing has been as widely embraced as jeans. We all wear them; heads of state, movie stars, musicians, rebels and royalty. What started out as workwear has evolved to become the most popular apparel on earth to the degree that half of the world’s populations wear jeans every day.

Strauss (aka Levi Strauss) and Jacob Youphes. Levi Strauss, originally named Loeb Strauss was a Bavarian immigrant of German Jewish descent who arrived in the United States during 1847 aged 18 to join his brothers, Jonas and Louis, who owned a dry goods wholesale business (textiles, clothing, and sundries) in New York City.

During 1969 a writer for an American fabric publication said, ‘Denim is one of the world’s oldest fabrics, yet it remains eternally young’.

If the consistent use of an item makes it ‘eternally young’ then this writer’s statement was certainly appropriate. From as early as the 16th century denim fabric was made into upholstery, tents and sails, and worn as either the fabric of labour or possibly as an expression of rebellion.

In 1853 - at the age of 23 - Loeb moved to San Francisco, the commercial hub of the Californian Gold Rush, to start his own ‘dry goods business’, Levi Strauss & Co; this would become one of the world’s largest clothing companies.

The history of jeans is extraordinary. One would assume that jeans started as an American trend, but research indicates that the source of the fabric from which jeans are made originated in Nîmes, France and in Genoa, Italy as far back as the 1500s, long before the 1870s when wearing pants made out of denim fabric became the order of the day.

Levi Strauss, who never married, also parlayed his incredible business acumen in advancing social progress at the time by giving back to the community. He established a company tradition which was committed to impact positively upon society.

Most people may presume that the term denim and jeans refers to the same item. In reality they are completely different, denim is the name of a fabric used to make pants known as jeans.

Jacob Youphes was born in Latvia and emigrated to the United States in 1852 at the age of 23. Two years later he changed his name to Jacob Davis. After working as a tailor in New York and Augusta, Davis moved to Canada in 1858 in pursuit of a more lucrative career.

There he met his wife Annie Parksher and they returned to San Francisco in January 1867 and moved to Virginia City where he opened a cigar shop, however after three months he reverted back to working as a tailor.

The origin of the names denim and jean is to some extent interwoven amid fact and myth. Generally historians agree that the word denim was adapted from the French fabric known as ‘serge de Nîmes’.

Serge is the name of a strong fabric (a type of twill fabric of silk and wool) made in Nîmes in France.

This nomadic tailor moved to Reno in Nevada in 1868 and invested in a brewery, but this investment failed. In 1869 he opened a tailor shop and produced tents and wagon covers made from a heavy duty cotton duck cloth and a hard wearing cotton denim fabric, which he bought from Levi Strauss & Co.

The name jean actually refers to the name of a cotton, linen and/ or wool blend fabric made in the city of Genoa in Italy around the same time as denim. This jean fabric was initially used by Genoese sailors to cover and protect goods awaiting shipment; this was prior to their using the jean fabric to make pants which were then called jeans after the fabric. Therefore the claim that the first ‘jean’ pants were worn and also exported throughout Europe by the Genoese sailors is not correct. Another view is that the French name for Genoa, ‘Gênes,’ is likely to be the origin of the word ‘jeans’.

Research indicates that in the 19th century the fabrics known as jean and denim were remarkably different. Fine trousers, topcoats and short jackets were made from blue jean material while overalls and work trousers were manufactured from blue denim.

During 1870 a female customer asked Davis if he could make a cheap pair of pants for her husband, a miner, who regularly had to replace his pants as these were being worn away during his working hours. He decided to fasten the pocket-ends with copper rivets for added strength to prevent the pockets from tearing as a result of miners putting gold nuggets in their pockets. Within 18 months Davis had sold 200 pairs of riveted pants.

However, the two men responsible for making jeans or denims an international wardrobe staple are two American immigrants, Loeb

In 1872 Jacob Davis wrote to Levi Strauss who was already a millionaire and explained that he had come up with the unique idea of putting copper rivets at the pockets-ends and other points of stress in ‘waist overalls’. Davis told Strauss that he could not keep up with the demand for his jeans and that he wanted to patent the idea of selling clothing reinforced with rivets, but that he required a business partner to fund it. Strauss agreed and in 1873 they obtained a patent for ‘Improvement in Fastening Pocket-Openings’.

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Davis moved to San Francisco in April 1873 to start working for Strauss and overseeing the manufacturing of the copper riveted ‘waist overalls’, the initial name for their flagship product which became known as jeans. Contrary to popular belief the denim material for the first Levi ‘waist overalls’ was not imported from France or Genoa, but supplied by Amoskeag Manufacturing Company in Manchester on the East Coast of the United States.

By the 1920s, Levi’s ‘waist overalls’ were the foremost type of work pants in the Western states. The cowboy movies of the 1930s had captured the American imagination and real cowboys wearing Levi’s® jeans were elevated to mythical status. Jeans became synonymous with a life of freedom and individuality.

Denim transcended its image as clothing for workers and became the fabric of the authentic American, as symbolised

by Hollywood stars, such as John Wayne and Gary Cooper amongst others.

Eastern Americans seeking an authentic cowboy experience headed to the cattle ranches of California, Arizona and Nevada to buy their first pair of Levi’s, as they were only sold west of the Mississippi. In taking the jeans home the trend expanded through the country and eventually abroad.

Jacob Youphes

The onslaught of the second world caused the manufacture of ‘waist overalls’ to be limited as raw materials were needed for the war effort. When the war ended in 1945, the changes in society saw denim pants becoming increasingly associated with the leisure activities of a prosperous postwar America.

Jeans, no longer called ‘waist overalls’ in the 1950s, became a symbol of teenage rebellion as influenced by legendary actors such as James Dean in ‘Rebel Without A Cause’ and Marlon Brando in the film ‘The Wild One’. Hollywood film producers dressed all the bad boys in denim and the portrayal of denim-clad ‘juvenile delinquents’ resulted in many American schools banning pupils from wearing jeans to school as it was feared that such ‘rebel-like’ attire would lead students to rebel against authority.

The hippy movement between 1960 and 1970 initiated the trend to personalise and decorate jeans. Hipsters, bell bottoms and pre-washed jeans became fashionable.

Those countries behind the Iron Curtain viewed jeans as representative of western decadence and individuality and jeans were seen by many as highly desirable. Jeans were even associated with the demise of communism!

In the 1980s‘designer jeans’ fashioned for style rather than practicality made their appearance. Some readers will remember how these skin-tight jeans made from combinations of cotton, spandex, Lycra and even of suede and leather were designed to mould on to bodies

Levi Strauss

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to accentuate curves. These ‘designer jeans’ were allowed in most upscale venues where jeans were not previously permitted. Various designers’ brands entered this market, such as Gloria Vanderbilt, Sergio Valente, Girbaud, EJ Gitano, Jordache, Guess, Chic, Zena and Sassoon.

During the 90’s jeans were no longer regarded as high fashion, although still extremely popular, but trends changed to combat style pants, khakis and chinos as well as a variety of branded sportswear.

Currently jeans are back on the international stage with various high-end ‘designer jean’ fashion labels, such as Escada, APO, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Paige Denim, and G-Star amongst many others dominating the international catwalks.

Designer jeans are seen as an investment by their proud owners as they can be rather expensive, ranging from R1500 upwards. The world’s most expensive jeans ‘Secret Circus’ with 15 large diamonds sewn on to back pockets will set you back R14 million rand.

The top silhouette for 2014 is still the ‘skinny jean’ but the so called ‘boyfriend’ jeans with a wider leg are becoming extremely popular.

The story of jeans continues...

James Dean

World’s oldest pair of Levis valued at $ 150, 000

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MAGICAL HURAWALHI adults only ...

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T

he eco-friendly Hurawalhi Island Resort opened on 1 December 2016 and is located amongst the spectacular coral reefs of the northern Lhaviyani Atoll (a 45-minute flight from MalĂŠ airport) in the Maldives. The resort is surrounded by the pure white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters integral to any Maldivian holiday, with an astonishing array of sea life to delight any snorkelling enthusiast. There are more than 100 different resorts on offer in the Maldives, so any new arrival to the list must be able to offer something extra special. It is said to provide a perfect match of serenity and excitement, comfort and adventure. Designed by New York-based architect, Yuji Yamazaki the property offers a modern, minimalist slant to traditional Maldivian design and is the first five-star resort opened by the Crown & Champa Resorts.

This resort offers 90 villas, either on the beach or over the water, with or without a pool, according to your choice and is an adults-only sanctuary.

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By Diane Stadler

However, the show-stopper of the Hurawalhi Island Resort is the world’s largest All-glass Undersea Restaurant that has plumbed the depths in that it is 5.8 metres under the sea. The restaurant offers seating for up to 16 guests and diners can take in the marine ambience through a transparent domed ceiling while they enjoy their meal. Designed by architects MJ Murphy who specialise in aquarium designs, this 410-ton megastructure was built in New Zealand over ten months and travelled to the Maldives on a cargo ship and was carefully lowered into the ocean. The menu offers a six-course dinner focussing on seafood and, for some, it might feel a little strange to be eating fish while watching them swimming peacefully around the restaurant. Each dish is carefully created using the best ingredients with innovation and style, resulting in imaginative modern cuisine to delight any guest. The combination of its unique location, wine and excellent service while surrounded by marine views, with the menu concept of a multi-course tasting extravaganza offering wine pairing as suggested by the sommelier, is sheer delight.

Naturally, there are other restaurants on offer above the water. The Aquarium Restaurant serves a contemporary menu with carefully

sourced artisanal and organic ingredients and a Teppanyaki Grill.

The Canneli Restaurant also offers delicious fresh breakfasts and by night, an international buffet cuisine while overlooking the tranquil Indian Ocean. Guests may choose to enjoy a private dining experience with their own personal chef, dining al fresco on the beach to create a once in a lifetime memory in a romantic setting.

The Coco Bar is situated on the beach with al fresco decking overlooking the gleaming pool and lagoon and includes a wideranging shisha selection.

The ranges of facilities on offer for activity seekers should satisfy the most avid adventurer. These amenities include tennis, badminton and beach volleyball, deep sea fishing options and of course, incredible diving. From guided diving and snorkelling trips to gentle snorkelling close to the beaches, a complete PAD 5* Training Centre, jet skis, paragliding, windsurfing, kayaks, just to name a few, almost every water sport is available for your pleasure.

For those in search of pampering, The Duniye Spa offers this experience and there are few things more luxurious than being pampered in paradise. The spa villa overlooks the turquoise waters,

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providing the feeling of being immersed in serenity and nature.

The name means ‘universe’, reflecting the philosophy of a universal approach to wellness with selected treatments inspired by ancient and modern expertise from around the world, mainly influenced by the healing traditions of Asia and Africa. All products used are chemical free and organic compounds containing no synthetic materials. Once your treatment is complete, you may choose to continue to the ‘Tree Top Tranquillity Lounge’ that offers yoga, meditation and sound healing sessions.

Hurawalhi Resort has created this holiday paradise with an emphasis on five-star luxury and environmental sustainability and has gone the extra distance to put back into the environment as much as it takes out. Innovative energy saving solutions include solar panels; solar energy powering 30 per cent of the island; an on-site water bottling plant; heat recovery; food recycling and an in-house marine biologist. Owen Ealden, the island’s Food and Beverage Director, strongly advocates healthy and supportable living and summarises Hurawalhi’s theme of eco-consciousness, ‘we want to focus on three areas: healthy people, healthy planet and healthy local communities.’

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Model: Ashley Marie Dickerson of 3D Models Agency Photographer: Ashley Irvin Robertson Make up: David Sharp for Lancome Location: Only Oco, Kloofstreet Hair: Kevin Epstein for Yazoo

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SA FASHION GIANTS AT LE KAP The glamorous annual Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, which took place on the 10th of June at Steyn City in Johannesburg, featured the Le Kap Fashion Show presented as part of this exciting event and showcased some of South Africa’s leading couturiers.

The collections offered by the participating fashion designers, Jacques Lagrange, Gert-Johan Coetzee, Quiteria & George and Warrick Gautier included some of their latest designs.

Lancôme South Africa was the official cosmetic brand sponsor for this event and all the stunning runway models had their makeup done by their renowned national makeup trainer and artist, Andrew James, together with his dedicated team of professionals. Here we look at the fashion designers that participated on the Le Kap catwalk.

By Juliette Corrin

Models wearing designs from Jacques Lagrange’s latest collection sashayed down the ramp at the Fair to exclamations of delight and awe at his inspirational creativity. Jacques grew up in Paarl in the Cape Winelands and studied fashion at The Academy of Clothing Technology and subsequently worked as a personal assistant to Errol Arendz, the legendary couturier, for six and a half years. His experience of 17 years in the fashion world has led to his success, with his elegant and classy designs deemed essential for trendsetters with extravagant and luxurious lifestyles showcased at prestigious fashion shows worldwide. His A-list clientele is both locally and internationally based and at present his creations are only available to private clients.

Jacques believes his clientele are strong and powerful women with definite ideas of what they want and who love to be the centre of attention. His collections are delightfully extravagant and demonstrate his ability to work in different styles. His exquisite evening gowns and wedding dresses, with flowing lines and magical draping of lace and other embellishments, are mesmerising. Glamour magazine described this very original designer as the ‘King of Couture’ for his hauntingly beautiful creations. Impeccably designed and carefully tailored, every piece of his work will, quite literally, take your breath away. Jacques’ designs have featured in most major publications. He has appeared on television programmes and is involved with ad campaigns for wellknown luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini and Dom Perignon. Jacques is also involved in several charities and Reach for Recovery, the Go Red Heart Foundation and Red Cross Disaster Relief are a few of those that enjoy his support.

Jacques focusses on fabric choice, quality and careful attention to detail and believes that his experience in working with European clients has led to a distinctly European flair. His materials are sourced primarily from Europe and this often assists him in predicting upcoming trends, sometimes even ahead of other European fashion houses. Jacques states that he enjoys every step of the creative process – it may take up to five months to create one gown and the ever-present challenge is quality and excellent workmanship. Also, consistent hard work is essential as competition in the fashion design arenas increases all the time.

Some influential personalities in the media world claim that Jacques is the only South African-based design house that matters with gratified customers from Dubai to Switzerland, Paris to Australia, London to America, all in a day’s work. Jacques is a talented one-of-a-kind couturier and he is reputed to have already accomplished more than most designers achieve in a lifetime.

‘Couture is a lifestyle and not a party dress’ - Jacques Lagrange

Jacques Lagrange

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GERT-JOHAN COETZEE Designs by Gert-Johan Coetzee also graced the catwalk at Le Kap Lifestyle Fair Fashion show to the delight of the audience. He is a talented fashion creator whose primary focus is on red carpet style and claims the title of ‘darling local designer’ with ease while receiving international recognition for his work with local celebrities and pageant queens. In 2006, he made his entrance into the fashion world as South Africa’s most promising designer and his undeniable talent continues to speed him along the path of success. Now aged 29, his fashion atelier in Linden, Johannesburg employs 12 people and his designs include his couture and bespoke bridal range and a ready-to-wear collection ‘GJC’ - available at selected department stores. Due to demand from his couture clients, he has launched an exclusive ready-to-wear range, also available at luxury boutiques. The business is now seven years old and his husband, Vicky Visagie is his partner and brand manager.

Gert-Johan is one of South Africa’s most loved and esteemed couturiers and his clients include many influential women such as Public Prosecutor Thuli Madonsela and Miss World 2015, Rolene Strauss. Dressed in his designs, many of his patrons receive a best-dressed accolade at prestigious events. International clients include Kourtney Kardashian and Kristin Cavallari, so it is evident that this designer will be one to follow for his innovative and exciting work. However, he is also a social activist who makes use of his fashion platform to promote social issues such as prejudices against albinism, addressing violence against women, awareness of breast cancer and HIV. Furthermore, he creates awareness about the country’s water crisis and endangered wildlife and is involved with an initiative called Project Dignity.

Through his extraordinary dresses and creations, he is now a respected and influential public figure and has acted as a brand ambassador for premium brands such as Volvo, Dermalogica and Ferrari, amongst others. Also, he is often asked for his views on fashion, style and pop culture on a variety of platforms. His designs reflect his passion for elegance and beauty demonstrating chic femininity and high-end glamour, and he has an enormous local support structure of celebrities and powerful working women.

Gert-Johan has won numerous awards and has shown at international Fashion Weeks but continues to remain a proud champion for South African fashion and those causes close to his heart.

Photo of Bonang Matheba by Nick Boulton

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QUITERIA AND GEORGE The imaginative and elaborate ensembles presented by new South African designers, Quiteria Kekana and George Malelu did not disappoint. This haute couture design team with their names behind the brand, Quiteria & George are based in Johannesburg. Their collection at the 2017 Le Kap Lifestyle Fair on the 10th of June was awe-inspiring. They have been working together for less than two years and are making their way to success on international grounds, with their beautiful creations. They are quoted as saying that the journey has not been easy. However, they are now credited with dressing celebrities such as Terry Phetho, Siphokaizi January, Jessica Nkosi and Bonang Matheba, just to name a few. Their designs tell a story and they have created exquisite garments that display graphic and intricate handwork elements on each stunning creation. Inspired by the cultural shifts and moods of Africa and combining these with modern glamour and fashion trends, they make use of gorgeous print and patterns.

This duo is fast making their name as a fashion house and some say it is the current must-wear brand on the red carpet. They met in 2010 and faced many challenges, but persevered and as they say - the rest is history. There is no red carpet event taking place now where you will not find a celebrity wearing one of their creations. South African celebrities consider one of their creations to be a must-have and Zimbabwean Media Personality Kim Jayde Robinson recently attended the South African Glamorous Awards looking breathtaking in a gorgeous black peplum dress, as did Lerato Kganyago, look stunning wearing a Quiteria & George at the 2017 Le Kap Lifestyle Fair. A description of their work is that it is architecture in motion, reconciling various eclectic elements to produce a piece that makes the mundane fantastic. The pair believes fashion transcends barriers and work together on conceptualising and then executing a design.

‘The world is influenced by the internet, so, creatively, we are able to tap into all parts of the world and are able to relate and tell our stories. It may be political, religious, cultural ... fashion speaks all languages,’ says Kekana. These two exciting designers believe they have been blessed with the ability to touch people’s lives and tell stories by means of design. This determined pair is working on becoming a household name and reputable brand rather than just making sales.

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Bonang Matheba

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WARRICK GAUTIER Another internationally acclaimed fashion designer who exhibited his beautiful and winning creations from his latest collection was Warrick Gautier. Warrick began his career 20 years ago and is one of South Africa’s leading designers who has worked with some of the prominent fashion houses in Paris and is well-known for his always flattering and sensual lines. Celebrities such as Lee-Ann Liebenberg, Jeannie D, Nomzamo Mbatha and Tatum Keshway are amongst many who have enjoyed wearing his gorgeous creations.

Warrick is based in Cape Town and has worked with Chloe, Louis Vuitton and now has his atelier in our beautiful city. He regularly travels between Cape Town, London and Paris and is now one of the leading influences in the fashion world. According to Warrick, his inspiration comes from art, music, architecture and his French heritage. His style is recognised for its mixture and masculine and

feminine lines that together create a very powerful signature. The name of this designer has become synonymous with creating fantastic couture and tailored collections with the suit or tuxedo always at centre stage with emphasis on the details such as the cut, drape and tailoring. Playing on these basics, he contrasts these with feminine lines with swathes of soft bias-cut silk chiffon and sheer silk gazar, embroidery and beaded couture gowns. Royalty, international and local business women, movie stars and celebrities alike seek out his gowns for their distinctive style.

Warrick is passionate about perfection and this has always made working in the fashion industry easier for him. He believes the key to success is to stay true to one’s values, keep learning and evolve your style until you reach that place where people know it is unique and sought after by people. After studying, he worked in a factory that made prêt-à-porter de luxe which he feels gave him a good grounding in garment construction for a wider market. He was hired

by Chloe when Karl Lagerfeld was the head designer before Stella McCartney replaced him. He contributed to the first prêt-à-porter collection when Marc Jacobs was first hired by Louis Vuitton, an exciting time for that fashion house with their new venture. He loves to surround himself with beauty, so art in all its forms is important and enjoys cycling and running to keep fit.

Plans include studios in Johannesburg, Paris and London. The tuxedo suit remains one of his all-time favourites as he sees it as representing power to women, an androgynous style with an allure that he loves. Warrick sees trends being anchored in proportion and form as eclectic because today no one wears the same fashion, as designs relate to an individual’s uniqueness in a refined and elegant way. He asserts that colour and sport remain in vogue and this appeal will be around for a while. Warrick aims to create designs to make a woman’s dream come true with couture, bridal and tailored garments made to order and seasonal collections available by appointment only.

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COGNAC AND CIGAR PAIRING ‘Food and alcohol pairing is old news. We have been spending the past few decades paring wine, beer and any kind of spirit with whatever food we can. It makes sense – why would someone not want to partner a fine gin with a delectable morsel that complements and brings out the best of the tipple?’

By Paula Wilson

Some brands and foodies are taking this a step further - one of the most interesting being Rémy Martin, one of the first to offer guidance on pairing their drinks with cigars.

The complementary tastes of cognac and cigars have a long tradition of appearing together - since fine Havana cigars first made an appearance centuries ago and cognac and cigars have subsequently made their mark together around the world. The legacy born from the pairing of Rémy Martin XO with the smoke of great cigars creates an exceptional experience, bringing together those who seek the finer things in life.

Both are products of their terroir and are the result of selection, ageing and blending, with their unique tastes expressed through

the fires of barrel toasting (in the case of cognac) or through the fires of combustion (in the case of cigars).

These parallels result in a suite of complementary flavours – grilled, toasted, roasted and caramelized – through which the complex, fruity, floral and vanilla notes of cognac play with the earthy, woody, spicy and musky aromatic nuances of the cigar smoke.

As with all pairings, we assume that everyone will pick and taste slightly different notes depending on their palates, their preferences and their own unique memories and experiences.

Much of the enjoyment is therefore in experimenting with tastes and combinations to find personal favourites. Having said that, it is always good to start off with some recommendations. To get started,

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let us begin with VSOP, which Rémy Martin suggests paring with the Arturo Fuente Rosado Sungrown Magnum R Vitola “Forty-Four”.

Gleaming with oils the Vitola “Forty-Four” burns evenly and reveals layers of cinnamon, maple and roasted nut, sweetened by touches of molasses and vanilla. The cigar accentuates the flavours of vanilla and ripe apricots in the cognac.

The Arturo Fuente Anejo Reserva #46 is one of the rarest, most highly-acclaimed and desirable ultra-premium cigars the world has ever seen. Its perfect match is Rémy Martin’s 1738, which has a regal appearance with mellow and rich flavours that are smooth and well-balanced on the palate. On the nose, generous plum and fig marmalade are rounded out by oaky notes of toffee and toasted bread. The taste is balanced with the mellow butterscotch, baked spices and dark chocolate. The finish is complex, with a concentration of fruit and nutty flavours.

The strong cedar note from The Reserva #46 instantly brings out the fruity flavour of the 1738 and a full draw of the cigar reveals a heavy presence of white pepper and a lingering hint of cinnamon on the

palate. The finish is complex, with a concentration of fruit and nutty flavours. The combination is an authentic expression of its time and artisanship. The Anejo line is a limited edition that is only released twice a year and is matured in cognac barrels.

Rémy Martin XO meanwhile pairs particularly well with cigars because of the more complex blend of eaux-de-vie and the longer ageing process it undergoes in oak barrels (which also provides its rich amber colour). It has rich notes of jasmine, juicy plum, candied orange and hazelnuts that are carried through to the palate.

Pair with an Arturo Fuente Opus X Robusto, which tastes of figs, candied fruits, cinnamon and pecans. From the moment it combines with the XO a veritable festival of candied fruits fills the mouth with sensations of fig, banana, caramel apple pie and candied oranges that linger on the palate.

As the cognac remains on the tongue surprising notes of Brazil nuts and pecans are revealed. In the end the nutty flavours melt into the subtle bitterness of lime zest.

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THE MILLENIALS

By Anne Wheeler

The past 20 years have seen the number of luxury goods patrons triple to more than 330 million according to the consulting firm, Bain & Company. The spending on these types of products has risen at double the rate of global GDP. However, the interesting fact here is that these new consumers are not wealthy, they are merely prosperous. Their rush to quality has very quickly created billionaires, in particular among the conglomerates that have gathered together to sell some of the best-known brands. Luxury used to be about rarity and brands such as Bentley and Tiffany sold products out of reach of the average person and these bought luxury and exclusivity, but there has been a change.

Enter the millennials‌ To some, this term is virtually unknown, but it refers to a vaguely defined group of people born between 1981 and 1991, known as Generation Y, followed by Generation Z, being those born between 1991 and 2001. This in itself is confusing. Why should there be a difference? Fundamentally, technology is the reason. Generation Y grew up with personal computers, cell phones and video games systems while Generation Z has tablets,

smartphones and apps. There is common ground. All these individuals or millennials have transformed and altered communications internationally, and in doing so, have redefined modern luxury brands through their expectations. By 2020, they will account for 40 per cent of all consumers and understanding them is vital to companies seeking success. They seek social validation and inclusion but want to be different professionally and corporations need to deliver them with the means for them to reconcile and better manage their personal and professional brands.

Millennials are risk-averse, practical and pragmatic and not entrepreneurial as they see themselves as creating a survival mechanism rather than reaching for status or riches. They are extremely committed to avoiding errors made by who they term as their meandering millennial predecessors. An essential skill identified with this group is the ability to communicate clearly, particularly with mature individuals, as they feel this will ensure their future success.

Furthermore, once something has caught their attention, they become intensely dedicated and engrossed on the potential option.

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The millennial generation is a free-thinking, individualistic age group that shares a disruptive mindset that values experience more than tangible items. They have high debt loads, limited buying power and their impact on current sales is not that huge, but still, they have redefined luxury. The question again is why? There is little doubt that they have transformed the concept of luxury with their well-connected lifestyles, the Internet of Things, purchases inspired by functionality and purpose. Also, exceptional experiences are the main reason for choosing whether to make future purchases. These generations are going to have a large impact on our societies and luxury brands need to focus on what attracts them most. They want the truth to draw their influence. Surprise effect, authentic functionality and radical transparency are at the top of the lists. Bain & Company’s latest study asserts that luxury cars and hospitality, with personal luxury goods, account for 80 per cent of the total luxury market, with steady growth estimated at ₏1.08 trillion in 2016. Certain categories emerge as favourites: luxury cars, followed by luxury hospitality and luxury cruises were top performers, with beauty, fine wines and spirits and foods increasing as well. This reflects a definite shift away >

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from goods towards personal pampering and experience. Forecasts expect this trend to continue as they do not spend as prolifically, but there is a specific millennial spending pattern. Luxury no longer refers to exclusive goods alone but encompasses expensive farmto-table dining, craft beers and superior luxury travel experiences.

So, this is a different target audience for modern luxury brands that requires exclusive omnipresent experiences and the constant surprise effect evidenced through the branding. Curated storytelling and content must bridge the gap between consumers and brands. Offline speciality stores will counter the Internet by offering discoveries, dining options and human connections.

These consumers live in the mixed reality and multi-channel world and luxury online retailers must leverage user data from the digital operations to design their physical store based on luxury convenience. This enterprise between fashion tech-start up and luxury retailer assists in building the offline experience and the latter should reach demographics it has previously struggled to influence.

New technological advancements in these physical stores will free up time and make the consumer experience more human, in other words, technology will improve the retail experience to make it more human.

Millennials do not want luxury made by a machine in a repetitive fashion. They seek the element of surprise and curiosity. In 10th Ave, Manhattan, STORY is a retail concept store measuring approximately 185 sq m that has re-invented retail, creating a truly innovative experience. The store space has the look of a magazine, changes like a gallery and sells things like a shop. Every four to eight weeks, STORY entirely reintroduces itself in design and range of merchandise aspiring to present a new theme, trend or issue such as love, disturbance, radicalism and creativity. In this idea, STORY has introduced an ephemeral retail experience revealing the concept of the product as the content. Modern luxury brands need to recognise these expectations as this is vital to know how to cater to them in the future.

Millennials revel in radical transparency, functionality, authenticity and modern luxury brands such as Everlane and Naadam who produce high-quality products and explain their production facilities and supply chain process to justify the price. An example is Naadam who has built the largest privately funded non-profit group providing veterinary programmes, livestock insurance and breeding development. In return, it receives first access to Mongolian herders fleece to produce the best quality cashmere products.

Millennials are community oriented and willing to advocate the brands they love. In the fashion world, responsive visual channels like Instagram and cooperation with Insta-famous celebrities have proved most profitable. Instagram is utilised by 98 per cent of US fashion brands with success as the top brands on Instagram have a per-follower engagement rate of 2.26 per cent, about ten times higher than Facebook and 100 times higher than Twitter. Highengagement platforms provide the capacity to co-create the luxury brand universe.

Modern day luxury consumers have a fluctuating definition of luxury and do not believe that a high-end custom made brand is cool because it is expensive, preferring to value travel and experience over pricy items like jewellery and shoes. They are ethically aware, so they will be most attracted to those brands that have a tangible positive impact on their wellbeing and in the world as their particular choice. They want the brand to be as reactive as their friends and interact with them in real time and respond quickly. The speed of response for the brand is essential. Experience, from both an emotional and educational perspective is a key brand trait – for example, travel marketing is being redefined to some extent by what they consider having the best Instagram spots; for instant sharing of the moment while Air bandb capitalises on sharing economy while creating travels where one learns from the locals.

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By Juliette Corrin

D

ubai has a mystical magic about it and the exact reason is challenging to identify. Perhaps it is because it is always in flux with the inspiring transformation of profound ethnicities and impressive futuristic vision, an eclectic mix of past and future that makes it quite impossible to ignore its attractions. In this impressive and exciting city, construction seems eternal. It seems almost as if every day another iconic skyscraper emerges from the ground, shinier and bolder than its neighbour and adding to the fantasy of architecture that makes Dubai one of the most incredible man-made creations on earth. Local Emiratis make up only a fraction of the population as Dubai is shared by cultures from around the world, this being expressed in the culinary landscape, fashion, music and performances available.

Dubai is the largest and most populated city in the United Arab Emirates. The discovery of oil in 1966 and the resulting revenue from this natural resource accelerated the development of the city, but today the Western-style model of business drives the city with most of its revenue coming from tourism, real estate, aviation and financial services. This newly established open society, founded on Islamic tradition, makes it easy to experience

the myriad of possibilities on offer, as well as admiring its ability to create and realise projects that elsewhere would not be considered.

Referred to by some as a ‘superlative-craving society’, Dubai has the tallest building, the biggest indoor theme park, an island shaped like a palm tree, an indoor ski paradise, the fastest roller coaster and planned ‘starchitect-designed’ art and cultural museums. Projects for the World Expo 2020 are in the making and there is no doubt that this city will again produce something quite fantastic.

The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest structure at present, but wait, in 2020, The Tower in Creek Harbour a little distance away will take away its crown at the height of possibly over 1 000 metres. This type of competition is the norm here. In 1979, the first high-rise building was constructed in Dubai and since then, the pace has never slowed down as one after the other magnificent edifice appears. Some fear that the oil will run dry and the UAE will be in trouble. Furthermore, no one seems to pay taxes, but somehow the streets are pristine, the transport super-efficient and crime almost unknown, not to mention the fact that the sunshine is assured all year round. How and why it works and the fact that it does is an enigmatic question that merely adds to its intrigue. >

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DUBAI – BIGGEST, BEST, TALLEST, LARGEST .....

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Honestly, most of us would not choose to live here, but to ignore it and not stare at the sheer ambition of the place is a neglect of an obligation for anyone who takes travel seriously. For regular visitors who consider themselves to be somewhat knowledgeable about this city, new and exciting players appear to be arriving all the time, so no visit is ever the same. The Versace Palace Hotel with 1,5 million tiles on its mosaic floor has opened near the airport. Another famous name, the Armani Hotel, occupies a stunning setting at the foot of the Burj Khalifa and the futuristic Viceroy offers a spa on the roof, as well as a swimming pool almost in the lobby. This building is located on the beach of the Palm Jumeirah.

Dukes Hotel, originally established in St James in London over a century ago, opened a 500-room hotel in a prime location on the trunk of The Palm, bringing a world of British charm with cosmopolitan luxury. Strangely this mix of UK tradition in Dubai works brilliantly, from the martinis in the bar to the carefully selected staff from places such as Claridges and the inclusion of the Mumbai’s famous Khyber restaurant – its first international franchise.

Obviously, in a city offering so much it is worth hiring a guide to take you on a tour of the city and many of the drivers you will find are not local but know the city intimately although if asked, will often say that they are not sure how they ended up in Dubai. Spice markets tempt

you to buy things you will never use and gold markets offer items most could not afford. A photo with a genuine Bedouin, as corny as it sounds, is sought by many tourists and the Dubai Museum offers an intensive look at the city’s history. The iconic Jumeirah Mosque is one of only two mosques open to non-Muslims and is one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city. The Dubai Fountain is the tallest performing fountain in the world at over 274 m.

For the adventurous the list is endless; dune-bashing, camel riding, quad biking, a barbecue on the beach with belly dancers to entertain you (very touristy and a once-off occasion) or a private visit to the desert, away from the mass tours. Take a short walk in the red sand, perhaps one kilometre or less and turn around, your tracks will have already been erased just to remind you that the desert demands respect. Notably, the temperature reaches a sweltering 50 degrees Centigrade in summer! Skydiving, paragliding over the dunes or a high-speed ride at the IMG Worlds of Adventure, you will find something to suit you. Incidentally, the IMG Worlds of Adventure is, of course, the world’s largest indoor mega-theme park with four themed areas called ‘Epic Zones’ and can welcome 20 000 visitors a day.

Gourmets of fine dining will delight in the extraordinary list of possibilities, even for the most discerning diner. The variety of authentic international cuisine available is exhilarating for any food >

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lover. Dubai is a shopping haven and many arrive here solely for this purpose. There are more than 70 shopping centres, including naturally, the world’s largest centre, the Dubai Mall. The Underwater Zoo and Aquarium, with more than 33 000 living animals, are located on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall. This happens to be one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world.

Dubai is a top retail haunt, making shopping a leisurely, albeit expensive hobby. The malls exceed all expectations in their attempts to outdo one another with surreal attractions such as indoor ski parks, snow centres and family entertainment facilities in their midst. The nightlife is never-ending in its possibilities and varies from flashy dance temples to rooftop bars, beach clubs and cocktail caverns and concerts under the stars. Nightlife centres itself around the hotels, but venture further for the more unusual and wholesome diversions such as Sheesh lounges and live music venues. Throughout the year, a series of festivals takes place, offering concerts, exhibitions and celebrations lasting a few days dedicated to an individual theme or occasion.

Dubai is simply never boring!

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THE BOTANIST

By Jani le Roux

I

n amongst the clutter of foodie trends (low carb, high fat; newly emerged super-foods and kale based everything) something interesting comes along every now and again. Foraging for ingredients has quietly become ever more popular and taps into a zeitgeist that has its roots in sustainability and provenance, rather than weight-loss and the elimination of food groups.

In its simplest form, foraging is the search for wild food and plants, using readily available and sustainable sources, rather than farmed resources. By its very nature, its focus is on seasonable plants and other wild, edible ingredients, using only what is naturally available at the time. The burgeoning popularity of this trend has seen all number of ingredients, previously discarded as weeds, appearing on menus again – from wild mushrooms and nasturtium flowers to the more obscure leaves, roots and seeds of local veld plants.

However, the foraging trend is not exclusive to cuisine and is starting to gain momentum in the drinks circles with bars such as Cape Town’s Outrage of Modesty developing drinks menus based around locally sourced, foraged and seasonal ingredients.

Leading this trend is the super-premium, artisanal gin brand, The Botanist. The only Islay Dry Gin, the Botanist gin, was conceived by whisky distilling legend, Jim McEwan, at the Bruichladdich Distillery on the wild Hebridean Isle of Islay. The layered complexity of The Botanist is an inspiration to professional bartenders, who appreciate the flavour potential of ingredients foraged from their local environments, to introduce a very personal dimension to this complex spirit.

The philosophy of foraging is an essential part of the very makeup of The Botanist. All gins have a base of a number of botanicals – usually about nine as standard, including the juniper berry – which are then augmented with a few more botanicals and infused flavours, to give that gin its signature taste. The Botanist takes this a step further, with an impressive 22 botanicals making up its base, all hand-foraged on the wind-swept Hebridean Isle of Islay.

The foraging team – a husband and wife, Dr Richard and Mavis Gulliver, both botanists – collect these ingredients, many of which are seasonal and indigenous to Islay itself. These are added during the distillation process, resulting in a rare expression that captures the essence of this remote Scottish island.

The Botanist is trickle distilled in the world’s last surviving Lomond spirit still. Although it was originally designed to operate at significantly lower pressure than mainstream commercial stills, Jim McEwan then instigated a further series of radical modifications aimed at slowing down the distillation process even further. The goal was to maximise reflux of the heavy vapours while gently coaxing the essential oils from the foraged island botanicals. The distillation process is slow, almost painfully so, but ‘the result,’ claims McEwan, ‘is a highly seductive, satin-smooth gin with exploding floral aromas and a rich, mellow taste.’

The gin is highly distinctive, complex and floral as a result and the story of provenance to Islay is a compelling one for gin lovers looking for authenticity and uniqueness. In an age of re-badged industrial gins, The Botanist stands out as a truly artisanal, smallbatch, hand-crafted labour of love and distiller’s art, a breath of botanical Islay in every glass.

The heart of foraging, however, remains in the belief of local ingredients. So how does a gin that is so Scottish at heart translate this to a South African gin-loving audience? The Botanist has answered the question by encouraging South African drinkers to explore and forage their own botanical heritage for use as ingredients and garnishes to their gin-based drinks and cocktails.

Some of the most favoured indigenous combinations that can be found in our own backyards are buchu (different variants add unique flavours ranging from lemon to garlic to minty blackcurrants to a G&T), lemon pelargonium (adds a citrus flavour) and even pineneedles.

A cucumber wedge or a slice of lemon? That’s so 2014.

Gin and tonics have never been so flavourful.

EDITOR’S NOTE: To find out more, visit www.thebotanist.com

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THE PERFECT APOLOGY

By Sylvia Sibbald

I

n the film, Love Story during 1970 the dying Ali MacGraw said to her beloved boyfriend, actor Ryan O’Neal, ‘Love means never having to say I’m sorry’. A couple of years later in the movie, What’s Up, Doc?, Barbra Streisand’s character said the same thing to the same actor and received the response, ‘That’s the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard’.

Apologising can be difficult. It’s an expression of regret. The first problem is that most of us do not like to be in a position where you must admit you are wrong. Many would rather believe that the other person or party is responsible and, therefore, to blame. Anger, pride and embarrassment also prevent apologies. If you messed up royally, it could cause any or all of these emotions, as well as guilt in acknowledging hurting someone or shame for having behaved badly. In most cases, we try to defend or justify our behaviour before conceding an apology is needed. The inability to apologise may critically harm your relationships! You do not need to apologise for your beliefs or for not meeting unreasonable expectations. Stick to your principles, but you can do this without being hurtful and creating the need for saying, ‘I’m sorry’.

So, once it is recognised that an apology is required, how do you make it successful? Firstly, do it quickly; secondly, comprehend that an authentic apology does not just include the written or spoken words. Therefore, it can be fair to say that a proper apology requires a combination of ingredients to make it perfect. Perhaps using a scientific approach, in other words, ensure all the necessary details are included. However, there is an art to this, as the surrounding factors or situation must be integrated. These elements relate to the formality or romance of the delivery dictated by the recipient or relationship and the nature of the transgression. Content refers to the recipient and tone to the level of infraction; the more serious the offence, the more serious the tone.

In general, taking the wise approach is to ensure that the person to whom you are apologising, views the situation as more serious than you do. To make light of the situation to a hurt beneficiary will have little effect. If you are going to offer a gift as part of the apology, make sure it’s relevant – a careless offering may seem insincere. Remember the science – do not forget what needs to be contained. Then there is the presentation, either a letter or a verbal apology; a letter

is tangible and the receiver has time to consider your words (and cool down and recover) while a verbal apology must reflect sincerity. Also, be prepared for the reaction and result, either negative or positive.

Generally, it would be wise to avoid the words ‘if’ or ‘but’, as these always create doubt or the possibility that the apology is not entirely sincere. Use plain language that is straightforward. Asking for forgiveness at this time is usually imprudent. Also, do not defend your behaviour. The other person may need a chance to consider your words and process emotions such as anger or hurt. Grovelling is not required. Present the apology and accept that it takes time to repair the damage. Being genuine is crucial, as well as taking full responsibility. Once you have made your apology, take a step back and allow the other person time and accept that you may have to live with some remorse.

Apologies heal, and so they are for the brave and those unafraid of feeling vulnerable as they accept the consequences of their errors.

The truth is hard to face, particularly when you have messed up!

Furthermore, the apology is not about you. It’s about the person you have hurt and about rekindling your relationship with him or her. If you try and apologise for yourself, it usually sounds lame and embarrassing. See it as an objective process and a step to healing the damage. This is a sacred act and you have a vital role. Confidence in that what you are doing is right and humility is imperative. Be specific, acknowledge the consequences to the other person and perhaps list other scenarios to show you have thought about the mistakes and how you may have avoided them and, most importantly, ask how you can rectify things again. Also, allow the other person to vent by asking if there is anything else you may have done to offend them.

Another idea is to state what you have learnt from the mistake.

An apology may not be accepted, even if perfectly prepared, and sometimes time is necessary to allow it to settle in. Even if it was a simple misunderstanding or your ‘crime’ was minor and the others person’s far worse (not easy), you are answerable for your actions and the rest is out of your hands.

A lame apology can be more damaging. Fortunately, the art of apologising is not difficult to master and it can mean a lifetime of stable and happy relationships.

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ERIN SAWYER #ILookLikeAnEngineer

By Marion Pfeiffer

Le Kap magazine recently spoke to Erin Sawyer, an inspiring and well-known woman engineer who has distinguished herself in her profession and by actively encouraging professional women to become engineers and leaders in fields previously considered to be male-dominated industries. Erin has leading roles in several non-profit organisations that support young women contemplating entering these industries to achieve their goals as skilled professionals in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and is avidly involved in the #ILookLikeAnEngineer campaign. For the past 15 years, the expertise acquired in her career includes areas such as international automotive components and management consulting, leading projects and teams in strategic sourcing, supply chain management and product growth.

The beautiful and charming Erin studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan attaining her BS, followed by an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. At present, she is the Vice President of Supply Chain at Wrightspeed, spearheading the strategic sourcing, international supply chain management and product growth. This role supports the company’s objective to be the world’s leading manufacturer of efficient rangeextended electric vehicle powertrains for future generations of commercial fleets. Wrightspeed, a Silicon Valley start-up founded

by Ian Wright, one of Tesla’s original co-founders, aims to reduce energy consumption and pollution in concentrated areas – local garbage trucks, delivery trucks and buses - by exchanging these for cleaner, more efficient solutions.

Before starting work with Wrightspeed, Erin managed the Global Supply of Core Technologies at Tesla Motors in Palo Alto, California.

Her responsibilities involved the development of long-term, scalable

supply base strategies to accelerate the world’s adoption of lowcost electric cars produced by Tesla. Formerly, she worked at the global management consulting firm, AT Kearney, managing projects in strategic sourcing, manufacturing and organisational transformation for Fortune 500 clients. Her impressive resume also includes executive positions at automotive manufacturers, such as Honeywell, Cummins Inc and Ford Motor Company.

As a woman engineer, the experience of making a career in a male-dominated field has led to her becoming a prominent voice in the #ILookLikeAnEngineer social media campaign with Op-Ed articles in Fortune and TechCrunch. It is only recently that women have begun to emerge as high-profile leaders, who are confident in their femininity, for example, Marissa Meyer, the CEO of Yahoo, appearing in Vogue magazine. The iconic Barbie doll is also embracing this progress, as after more than 100 career choices displayed in her costumes, it is only now that Mattel has created a Computer Engineer Barbie!

However, woman engineers and female executives in the hightech industry remain few although their numbers are increasing.

Women still struggle to find their place, establish credibility and recognition for their skills. In the professional arena, Erin has a track record of disrupting and reinventing the automotive industry to meet aggressive targets and it is this type of determination that she now applies - to change the perspectives of women entering the same field.

The #ILookLikeAnEngineer campaign is one close to her heart as she believes it is shattering the traditional male engineer role. When it started trending on Twitter, it quickly went viral with both men and

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women contributing stories of unconscious bias and harassment.

During a summer internship as an engineer at Ford Motor Company, aged 16, and keen to understand the realities of the job, she realised that she would be in the minority in this profession. The recent drive to highlight diversity in the tech industry revealed the influence of woman engineers and provided the opportunity for other women and under-represented minorities to share their experiences of discrimination. Erin describes her personal battle to be taken seriously as an engineer because she is female and how earlier in her career she did change her appearance to ‘fit in’ with the boys, with a slightly more masculine form of dress. Many women in these types of industries feel the same sort of pressure. She would tie her hair up neatly and even traded her contact lenses for glasses.

However, as she has become more successful, Erin has become more comfortable with letting her hair down, both figuratively and literally. After designing diesel engine components, developing new turbocharger products and managing a global supply chain of automotive supplies, she is confident in that her work speaks for itself. #ILookLikeAnEngineer seeks to shatter the old fashioned and traditional ideas of what an engineer should look like and recognise that these young women are vital to the future of engineering.

Erin is a board member of Kids’ Vision; a non-profit organisation devised to reveal to girls how STEM applies and functions in hightech corporations in Silicon Valley. She is a leader of organisations

that encourage women to enter careers in STEM, such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the Women’s Club of Silicon Valley.

Erin believes she embodies the face of STEM today, proving that women can be beautiful and smart. STEM emphasises how women have excelled in the soft skills also needed for STEM jobs and assists girls from being disheartened from entering into what is often still regarded as a male-dominated profession – an outdated view today. She considers girls’ perceptions of their potential to be critical to their choice of careers and negative expectations often prevent them from reaching their goals. Another significant issue is the ever-increasing number of STEM jobs available and lower levels of unemployment in this industry compared to others. Educators need to be involved in changing views and Kids’ Vision provides an after-school programme bringing 3rd to 6th-grade girls on visits to meet female role models at technology companies in Silicon Valley.

Erin works hard to be a positive role model for woman engineers and was delighted to be chosen as one of Neiman Marcus’ new Faces of Beauty in Spring 2016, as they only select those women who they decide are extraordinary - with brains, beauty and passion.

She believes she embodies STEM and is proof that women can be both attractive and intelligent and states that women should own their education and career paths and make their choices proactively.

‘Women should not be afraid to be feminine and at the same time not be afraid to change things for the better and empower themselves by doing so,’ says Erin.

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