NICHE Fashion Magazine Vol 01 Issue 03 - Inspiration 2013

Fashion & Beauty | Home & DĂŠcor | Travel & Lifestyle

C a r r i e B r a d s h aw

l if e l e ss ons with Oprah

inked beauty reinvented

Fashion Legend va l e n t i n o

fairy tale couture carlie wong o s c a r d e l a r e n ta

inspiration inspiration special issue 2013

Discover yours at NICHEmagazine.ca

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N I C H E editor’s message

a note from the

C

editor

A few of my favourite things…

oco Chanel is one of the most innovative designers in the history of fashion. She was tough as nails as an entrepreneur but instinctively knew how to dress a woman’s body in a way that was confident, fashion forward and feminine.

38 Oprah Winfrey was a perfect choice for this Inspiration Issue.

Don’t miss her Top 5 Life Lessons

Mademoiselle Chanel once said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street; fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

I believe the same to be true for inspiration – it is here, there and everywhere. The biggest inspiration in my life was my mother, Sylvia. She was quiet and unassuming; never commanding a room or stealing the spotlight. Yet the way she quietly reached out to those around her - making everyone feel important in the moment she was speaking with them – boosting the confidence of others without ever realizing the impact she had on everyone who met her. My mother was inspiring in a way that I have never seen or felt again. Mademoiselle Chanel and my mother were polar opposites, but alike in so many ways.

Life in general but fashion in particular can be that way… reaching out to onlookers with a tactile message – sometimes big, bold and brazen and other times quiet and unassuming but noticeably stylish. The inspiration gained by the observer is never really known – but in fact, can be life changing.

This is our special Inspiration Issue, filled with fashion that may stir you, reinvented beauty that may jar your senses and unexpected places that will take you on a petit sojourn, even if only in your mind.

Every day, each of us has a new opportunity to find inspiration in unexpected places. My goal with NICHE is to help you discover yours.

Tracey Drake, E d i t o r i n C h i e f publisher@NICHEmagazine.ca

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I am pleased to welcome celebrity beauty columnist Mary Zilba – enjoy her inspirational article in Girl Talk

NICHE I n s p i r at i o n It’s not a secret that many people thought we were crazy to launch a fashion magazine-in this economy, in this city. I knew it could be done. The inspiration for NICHE comes from a deep rooted belief that now is the perfect time for a forward thinking publication that brings world perspectives to local readers. How did I know? I looked around and what I saw amazed and inspired me. The rapid progress of Uptown, and the multi-million dollar Hillside reinvention, not to mention the major retailers both centres have attracted, is a clear indicator that the city is changing.

The shifting buying patterns and brand name merchandise now found in downtown boutiques is a strong sign that consumers want something different. The hardscape of the city is evolving too – trendy downtown condo developments (that are occupied), non-tourist fine dining restaurants (that are actually attracting a young, savvy crowd) and the success and expansion of world class brands in the region, including Porsche Centre Victoria’s state-of-the-art showroom. This city has a very bright future…

online

Re a d t h e 6 - p a g e e x t e n d e d a r t i c l e with exclusive city photography a t N I C H E m a g a z ine . c a / f u t u r e

FEATURES 10

i c o n | Carrie Bradshaw The princess of Manhattan couture, the mistress of relationship faux-pas and the unmistakable sovereign of shoes, Carrie Bradshaw graces the pages of NICHE magazine as this issue’s inspirational icon.

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f a s h i o n f o r w a r d | Urban Decay Bringing high fashion to Beekman Street amidst the fabulous urban chaos of NYC, Cynthia Rowley serves up a runway show inside crumbling architecture that will not soon be forgotten.

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d e s i g n p e r s p ec t i v e | Tangerine Dreams Vibrant orange and radiant turquoise are the perfect pair for a décor makeover. NICHE shows you how to discover home inspiration in unexpected places.

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f a s h i o n l e g e n d | Valentino With his signature ‘red’ couture colour, and a design style all his own, Valentino has made an indelible mark on the fashion world, especially following the acclaimed Retrospective Exhibit.

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a r t s & f i n d s | Andrea Stajan-Ferkul A treat for NICHE readers, revel in the artistic fashion artwork of this inspiring Canadian artist, who takes fashion illustration to a whole other level.

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t r av e l w i t h n i c h e t o . . . | Cusco, Peru Off the beaten path, in the Peruvian countryside lies Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Journey with NICHE on an inspirational excursion to the lost city of Macchu Piccu. fa ce b o o k . c o m / NI C H E o n l i n e

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inspiration 2013

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inspiration 2013 noteworthy 1 8 52 88 96

E d i t o r ’ s m e s s a g e | Discover yours F a r & Aw ay | Clayoquot Wilderness Resort Re i n v e n t e d | Inked inspiration C o n t r a s t | NICHE night out C l o u d N i n e | Sweet muse

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departments

FASHION & B E AUTY

18 21 22 28 30 36 41 58 64 70 72

L o o k B o o k | Emerald city G i r l Ta l k | Mary Zilba F a s h i o n F o r w a r d | Urban decay He l l o n Hee l s | Rene Caovilla J e w e l l e r y | Twinkle twinkle Be a u t y [ r e ] M a r k s | Glam versus grunge S h o o t ! | Fairy tale couture F a s h i o n Le g e n d | Valentino M ay b e l l i n e Me m o i r s | Birth of a beauty empire F a ce i t ! | Everyday beauty buys S t y l e T h e r a p y | What’s your body type?

HOM E , T r av e l & LIF E STYL E

10 32 38 46 66 74 80 86 90 92 94

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Ic o n | Carrie Bradshaw De s i g n Pe r s p ec t i v e | Tangerine dreams We l l N o w ! | Oprah’s life lessons T r av e l B i t e s | A secret at Macy’s H i d d e n Ge m s | Armani Hotel Dubai A r t s & F i n d s | Andrea Stajan-Ferkul T r av e l w i t h NI C H E t o . . . | Cusco, Peru S t u a r t B r o w n | A taste of the best iconic wines B o d y | inSPAration Dec o r at e U | Art deco flapper girl room Re ta i l T h e r a p y | Buyers Guide

inspiration 2013

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CHELSEA FORMAN S o ci a l Medi a M a n a g e r

M AT T H E W P H I L L I P S Production Assistant

R achel M ack contributors

E ditorial Stuart Brown, Erin Bradley, Sylvia Day, Elizabeth Dean, Tracey Drake, Chelsea Forman, Janelle Gauthier, John Grossmann, Jill Lang, Sheila May, Sara Rose, Catriona Ross, Sharrie Williams, Mary Zilba C reative Ashley, Nicole Tusznio, Emily Cheng, Alexa Kellee, Alisa Shebib, Yasmin Morris, Leia Vik P hotography Helga Esteb, Denis Farrell, Cinema Festival, FeatureFlash, Stephanie Gale, Christin Gilbert, Kelsey Goodwin, HBO Films, H&M, Mark Levinson, Margaret, Cathleen Naundorf, OWN, Jaguar PS, Nata Sha, Valery Sidelnykov, Eduard Stelmakh, Slice, Kiselev Andrey Valerevich, Walt Disney Productions (theatrical release poster) Acc o u n t E x ec u t i v e s

S teve D rake , S tephanie H ayes , A le x L avrinenko, S andra M oore , J ustin V oitic f a s hi o n i l l u s t r a t o r

nadja P H I L L I P S Interns

Paula B arcante , J osie S aldat N I C H E M a s c o t s [ C a nine ]

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N I C H E travel

C l ay o q u o t W i l d e r n e s s Re s o r t

away

by Elizabeth Dean | travel columnist idden in the lush west coast rain forest of Vancouver Island, is the ultra-remote and completely exquisite Clayoquot Wilderness Resort. Accessible only by boat or plane, the resort is tucked impeccably between glacial mountains in the fragile Clayoquot Sound Biosphere reserve. Guests arrive at the mouth of the Bedwell River, where it spills into a nine-mile long fjord, and are whisked to the resort by horse drawn carriage.

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The Bioshpere embodies untouched sea, land and sky - it is the natural museum of Canada’s West Coast. One place in the modern world where time has been a friend, allowing spectacular growth of virgin greens, and where the water and sky meet in a seamless crystal clear harmony.

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in s p i r a t i o n 2 0 1 3

photos provided by: Clayoquot wilderness resort

&

W h at ’ s i n a n a m e ?

The name Clayoquot was the early European explorer’s mispronunciation of the local band of first nations to the area - the Tla-o-qui-aht.

Meaning ‘different’, the Tla-o-qui-aht peacefully inhabited the area until the late 18th century when Clayoquot Sound was explored by ships involved in the fur trade. In 1791 the intricate waters were mapped by José María Narváez and Juan Carrasco, while their commander, Francisco de Eliza, met and befriended Wickaninnish, chief of the Tla-o-qui-aht peoples.

w h at t o pa c k

w h at t o d o An Activities Director will personally design your adventures depending on weather, tidal charts, animal sightings and your personal preferences. Clayoquot specializes in remote experiences that can be had nowhere else in the world.

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boots Hunter Boots. Rainbird

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N I C H E icon

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inspiration 2013

ICON

Carrie Bradshaw

I

by Tracey Drake

n 2009, the British national newspaper, The Guardian declared that “Carrie Bradshaw did as much to shift the culture around certain women’s issues as real-life female ground breakers.”

Carrie Bradshaw IS an icon. For outsiders, she may have been a fictional character but for every woman who watched Sex and the City, she was more real than most Hollywood celebrities. Heck, she was more accessible and honest with us than most of our real friends. She is flawed, frank and fashion forward – a girl could relate to Carrie Bradshaw, and her taste in shoes.

“When I first moved to New York, I’d buy Vogue instead of dinner. I just felt it fed me more.”

Carrie writes a weekly column called “Sex and the City” for The New York Star. The column focuses on Carrie’s hedonistic adventures and those of her close friends (Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte), as well as musings about the relationships between men and women, dating, and New York. The “I can relate to that” factor of the column brings Carrie a certain level of celebrity and years later, her column is turned into a book, and Carrie is given an opportunity to write for Vogue.

In 1986, a 21 year old Carrie Bradshaw moved to Manhattan at the height of 80s hair and the Madonna tutu, and embraced New York City.

She lives in a brownstone on the Upper East Side at 245 East 73rd Street, perfectly situated between Park and Madison. Carrie Bradshaw lives the impossibly perfect Manhattan life on what is most probably an average paying job. Her apartment is small but with a huge walk-through closet.

She is forever the optimist and always ready to face each new day and fashion trend. Carrie lives on the edge of a New York minute; a fast paced lifestyle that thrives on high fashion, over-the-top glamour, elusive love and a good Cosmopolitan.

“I have this little substance abuse problem… expensive footwear.”

A known shoe lover with a penchant for expensive designer shoes (notably Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo), Miranda once estimated that Carrie owned at least 100 pairs of shoes and had spent more than $40,000 on her shoe collection. She frequently mixes kitschy vintage finds with high-end labels and Carrie loves to shop at Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue. nichemagazine.ca

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N I C H E icon

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Oh – for the love of couture!

Over the course of six years, Carrie Bradshaw was seen wearing Dolce and Gabbana, Alexander McQueen, Anna Molinari, Balenciaga, Betsey Johnson, Bottega Veneta, Céline, Chanel, Chloé, Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix, Christian Louboutin, Diane von Fürstenberg, Fendi, Givenchy, Gucci, Heatherette, Helmut Lang, Hermès, Jean Paul Gaultier, Jeremy Scott, Judith Leiber, Jil Sander, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, Manolo Blahnik, Marc Jacobs, Marni, Missoni, Miu Miu, Moschino, Prada, Oscar de la Renta, Roberto Cavalli, Shiatzy Chen, Sergio Rossi, Sonia Rykiel, Tom Ford, Tiffany & Co., Yves Saint Laurent, Vera Wang, Valentino, Versace and Vivienne Westwood. It’s no wonder we love her.

distinctive + unique + inspiring

“Every year the women of New York leave the past behind and look forward to the future… this is known as Fashion Week.”

Carrie’s incredible wardrobe is completely out of reach for a struggling writer but her lust for great fashion – vintage to haute couture – is part of what makes Carrie a true fashionista. Carrie has been known to max out credit cards to buy a great pair of shoes (who hasn’t?) and once, she couldn’t secure a bank loan because her great fashion sense resulted in a poor credit rating. Never one to hide behind her closet, Carrie admitted that her “shoe needs” have accounted for most of her spending. When Carrie is mugged near West Broadway, the thief makes off with her Fendi Baguette clutch and Manolo Blahnik pink suede strappy sandals, and Carrie’s greatest distress was that she purchased the shoes for “half off at a sample sale”. They were irreplaceable at that price!

Carrie Bradshaw is the sovereign of shoes and her love affair with heels is an inherent part of who she is; an important part of why we love her. She misses an important ferry to Staten Island and is only concerned with her missing shoe, screaming out “I lost my Choo!” When her shoes are stolen at the home of a married friend and Carrie is ‘shoe shamed’, she not only goes into ‘shoe detective’ mode, but ponders the hypocrisy of why only married women get to celebrate their life choices whereas single women don’t have their life choices celebrated (“Hallmark don’t make a ‘congratulations-you-didn’t-marry-the-wrong-guy card’!”) and Carrie reasonably comes to the conclusion that it is okay to spend that much on oneself to make the single girl’s life more bearable.

“The fact is, sometimes it’s hard to walk in a single woman’s shoes. That’s why we need really special ones now and then – to make the walk a little more fun.”

Carrie is notoriously led by her emotions. She seeks acceptance (a door key, bathroom cabinet space, a promise) from her lovers, she obsesses over book reviews, and demands of Big, “just tell me I’m the one”. Yes, she does occasionally behave in a selfish manner but unless her self-involvement is pointed out by friends, she is apt to blame this on her tendency to get ‘Carried Away’, a phrase affectionately coined by Big. The result is the endearing, real Carrie that is flawed but relatable with a self-deprecating sense of humour.

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N I C H E icon

I like my money right where I can see it... in my closet.

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Shopping is my cardio.

Carrie is often torn between being single and free, enjoying the life she has built with her friends in the big city, and being inextricably lonely and in search of love. In fact, Carrie was someone looking for love. Real love. Ridiculous, inconvenient, consuming, can’t-live-without-eachother love.

“Men I may not know but shoes, SHOES I KNOW!” Although other significant men came and went in Carrie Bradshaw’s life – including Aidan Shaw, Jack Berger and Aleksandr Petrovsky – the love of her life is Mr. Big. Despite the turmoil in their relationship, Carrie and Big make continuous appearances in each other’s lives, which is the source of both joy and stress for Carrie – and finally in the end, they become Mr. and Mrs. Married.

At one time or another, we all get ‘Carried Away’. Carrie Bradshaw gave us all hope that we could one day afford the Louboutin heels and Dior frocks. She made us believe that if you dream big, live large, fall down but get back up, put your heart out there with honesty and conviction… that in the end, it pays off. Not a bad dream.

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N I C H E icon

Wonder-isms Carrie loved to wonder out loud. By doing so, she let us all into her life, and was often asking the hard questions that the rest of us were afraid to ask. A few of my favourites…

“Okay, we were attracted to younger men for various reasons. But I couldn’t help but wonder: What do they see in us?”

“As I walked home, I couldn’t help but wonder ... When did being alone become the modern-day equivalent of being a leper?”

“The fact is, the act of cheating is defined by the act of getting caught. One doesn’t exist without the other. I wondered: Was Samantha right? Is cheating like the proverbial tree in the forest?

That it doesn’t exist if there’s no one around to catch you?”

“I couldn’t help but wonder: Inside every confident, driven, single woman, is there a delicate, fragile princess just waiting to be saved? Was Charlotte right? Do women just wanna be rescued?”

“I couldn’t help but wonder: No matter how far you travel or how much you run from it, can you ever really escape your past?”

“So, when it comes to finance and dating, I couldn’t help but wonder: Why do we keep investing?”

“I couldn’t help but wonder: Can you get to a future if your past is present?”

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inspiration 2013

Don’t forget to fall in love with yourself first.

jimmychoo

Studded stiletto

N I C H E look book

d l a r e Em

city

Follow the yellow brick road... Past the waterfalls, the city of tea cups and the sprawling field of tulips, until you reach a magnificent kingdom that drips in the couture enriched shade of our earth, the Emerald City.

An unintentional collaboration between feature film and Pantone colour of the year met in superb harmony with the release of OZ The Great and Powerful, which fed the feasting eyes of our current emerald green crazed world. The elegant shade reaches far beyond runways, into our homes and streets; we have built our own Emerald City. Emerald green is distinguished by how it generates a sense of overall wellbeing, a nurturing breath, in a fast paced world.

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w a t c h | Raymond Weil

r i n g | Swarovski

h a n d b a g | Coach

s h o e s | Christian Louboutin

PANTONE

g o w n | Monique Lhuiller

colour of the year s u n g l a s s e s | Bvlgari

s c o o t e r | Vespa

Emerald Green Regeneration, growth, renewal, health, harmony, prosperity, balance, clarity and rejuvenation.

s h a d o w | Nars

p o l i s h | Sephora d ec o r | Homesense

niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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N I C H E beauty

Do one thing every day that scares you.

- E l e a n o r R o o s e v e lt

girl t a l k

T

by Mary Zilba | celebrity columnist

o me, inspiration is a moment when something or someone touches us so deeply that we want to better ourselves and do better for others. My goals in life had always been to either have a solid career in music or have my own talk show. I obtained my degree in broadcast journalism and began my journey. Like many women, my journey changed as I fell in love, married and had three beautiful sons. I wanted to become the best mother I could be, so I decided to put my recording career and TV projects on hold, and concentrate on my boys. Charity work was the only thing that remained a constant during those years.

Following the break-up of my marriage, I concentrated on picking up the pieces, while I learned how to be a single mother. I was in my mid-forties, with my desires, drive and aspirations bottled up inside of me. As I looked at the closed doors of my cast-aside goals and re-arranged plans, I wondered “where do I go from here”? I had that moment - the proverbial light bulb going off moment. That moment when you realize that if you look hard enough and long enough, you will figure it out; stop looking at the closed door and find a window. I chose to fly out my open window. I put together a demo reel, contacted my former agent and connected with friends in the music business.

M a r y Z i l b a is a singer, songwriter, television personality, activist and mother of three boys. She is currently appearing on the hit reality TV Series ‘The Real Housewives of Vancouver’ and debuted her Buff Beauty line on The Shopping Channel on April 12th.

Out of the blue, The Real Housewives of Vancouver (RHOV) producers called and offered me a position as a cast member. I spent a lot of time thinking about the show and whether or not it was a fit for me and my life. After long discussions with my family, I decided perhaps it was a gift, and you never know what God’s plan may be.

Becoming one of The Real Housewives of Vancouver was a profoundly life changing experience. The show would enable me to have another chance at rejuvenating my life’s work, while raising awareness for several causes I am passionate about on a much grander scale.Once again, I was inspired. I was inspired by my son’s condition to write the song HERO and dedicated it to Tuberous Sclerosis Canada. I was inspired and found myself working in TV again. I was inspired to develop and create my own cosmetic line: BUFF BEAUTY. Amidst the changes and challenges, the inspiration and the soul searching, I found me again. Despite the nature of RHOV, and the battles it sometimes puts me through, every single day I am reminded of that open window and the amazing people I have met since flying out of it.

We are all beautiful and deserve the best in life. Be inspired to help others realize their potential as you go for your dreams, no matter your age. It is how I found my true calling, and hope I can inspire other women to find their window. nichemagazine.ca

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N I C H E fashion

FA S H I O N FORWARD

Cynthia Rowley Spring 2013 Collection

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C

U r b a n D e c ay Meets High Fashion on Beekman Street

by Janelle Gauthier | fashion columnist

Cynthia Rowley doesn’t disappoint in the department of whimsical, charming designs and neither did her spring fashion show. Straying from a traditional runway presentation, Rowley fused several mediums into a two-hour unveiling. With Prosecco flowing freely and confetti streaming from the above balconies, models were meant to look and feel the essence of a party atmosphere. Throughout dilapidated rooms of an abandoned hotel in Manhattan’s financial district, press, buyers and editors were allowed to roam freely amongst the open spaces, soaking up the mixed media on offer. Models not only swept past guests fashioned in Rowley’s latest creations, but also immersed in photo shoots that were simultaneously projected amongst bare and tarnished walls as installation art for all to relish.

Photographers of varying backgrounds from runway snappers to artistic mavens were invited and engaged to capture some of the best still images of each outfit. Far different than the standard ‘end of runway’ shots, the final product was unique. There is feeling and personality, atmosphere and ambiance pulsing through the photos. Exactly as Rowley anticipated, diverse perspectives were captured of her entire collection. niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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N I C H E fashion

The clothing encompassed Rowley’s fun, feminine trademarks and flirted wildly with exaggerated silhouettes and frills. Hemlines were wider than usual on A-line dresses, mirroring the ample volume of the models’ hair.

Palazzo pants were so flared they were almost unimaginable to the eye and made me reminisce of little girls playing dress-up in their mothers’ closets. Frills layered upon one-another adding dimension to dresses while peplum tops served true to the designer’s history of flirtatious attire. Simple sportswear pieces and t-shirts with overzealous cuffed sleeves and boxy fitted bodies brought a tomboy element to the mix and the pairing brought balance to some of the ladylike elements.

Cynthia Rowley T r i - S t r a p Hee l :

Mint green embellished kidskin leather

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inspiration 2013

As confetti drifted down from above and gathered along the wooden floors, onlookers understood that not only did it contribute to the uplifting mood but it mimicked one of the main prints seen strewn across entire outfits. With no fear of colour and bold prints, Rowley didn’t shy away from using a healthy dose in this collection. Giant singular paisley prints were asymmetrically placed on garments and through digital printing they divulged a rather surreal appearance, almost evading to the illusion of a fairytale world set directly through the garment. The multi-coloured metallic brocades proved to be one of the most interesting fabrics at fashion week. The fusion of unconventional bright metallic thread was a unique approach to the traditional material and by using the luxurious fabric for simple and slightly sporty styles such as bomber jackets and shorts, the overall look remained young, free, and harmonized with the collection as a whole. A similar juxtaposition was apparent on basic crew neck tees and varsity style shorts that were completely covered with sequins and a few detailed rows of beading along the neck, sleeve and hem lines.

Although Cynthia Rowley lives in NYC, she can’t resist escaping to chase sun and waves around the world, and as an avid surfer she’s an ideal candidate to design neoprene wetsuits and over the years has become extremely successful in that domain. With multiple seams contouring the female form, her wetsuits were groundbreaking for woman’s surf attire and have lead to an ongoing collaboration with major surf brand Roxy. On display in this collection were two variations in plain silver and gold, but Rowley’s uber famous wetsuits that have garnered much attention are packed with colour and prints. niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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Art has definitely influenced how I think of design, both as individual items and as a body of work.

- cynthia rowley

It’s no surprise that one of Rowley’s strongest and most consistent sources of inspiration is Contemporary Art. She doesn’t simply muddle in the art world, she is saturated by its embrace. As part owner of ‘Exhibition A’ with her husband Bill Powers, they are in the business of offering limited edition artwork by top contemporary artists at affordable prices. Her extracurricular activities don’t end there.

Rowley can be seen as a judge on HGTV’s ‘Design Star’ and Lifetime’s ‘24 hour Catwalk’ plus she writes columns for ‘Glamour’ magazine and a series of books called ‘Swell’ which lend creative and quirky ideas for hosting parties, decorating and holiday advice. As the owner of 60 boutiques in the USA and Asia, the company is on the rise with annual wholesale revenues upwards of $130 million. It’s a true success story. Rowley built her business on a $3000 loan from her family after attending school at The Art Institute of Boston.

Cynthia Rowley may be a busy mother of two, but she has an overwhelming sense of youth and freedom that is beautiful beyond measure and shines through her creations. Not to mention a cheeky sense of humour, Rowley’s gold bangles that were stacked upon models’ wrists were not just over-sized for aesthetic reasons, they were also functioning mini flasks … and let the party continue!

N I C H E fashion

Hell Heels R E N É CAOV I L L A

G a r den of E den C ollection S p rin g / S u m m er 2 0 1 3

Shoe lovers the world over lust after the sublime creations from the house of René Caovilla. Since the 1950s, this footwear designer has been known for evening heels that exemplify expert craftsmanship and imaginative design. The Garden of Eden collection was inspired by exotic colours, enchanting flowers and perfect sunsets. René Caovilla shoes are a wardrobe staple for celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, Tyra Banks, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift and Heidi Klum.

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inspiration 2013

s p ec i a l f e at u r e

EDWARDIAN CIVILITY IN VICTORIA A Dinner Soiree 25 Years in the Making Global dining phenomenon, Dîner en Blanc is coming to Victoria June 27th, 2013. Marking the world’s first viral event, Dîner en Blanc is an idea borne on the gai streets of Paris - a très chic picnic that invites culinary and culture enthusiasts, dressed in elegant whites, to converge upon secret outdoor locales in 35 cities across 5 continents. One hour before the event, the location is released and guests gather for an unforgettable evening.

brought to you by

m a g a z i n e pa r t n e r

pre-register online @

victoria.dinerenblanc.info

Guests arrive dressed stylishly in white – bringing with them a table, white chairs, and a picnic basket comprised of quality menu items and china dinner service.

A History

Launched with a handful of friends by François Pasquier nearly 25 years ago, Paris’ Dîner en Blanc now attracts nearly 15,000 white-clad guests each year in a dozen cities throughout Europe and North America.

People simply place their names on an online waiting list, in hopes of an invitation. Those who attend a Dîner en Blanc become members; invited back the following year, and in turn, can invite their friends.

Dîner en Blanc is about building a pyramid of friends and a network that links memories. The French capital’s most recognizable sites have played host to it: the Pont des Arts, the Eiffel Tower site, the Louvre Pyramid, the Champs-Élysées, and last year: The Plaza of Notre Dame basilica. nichemagazine.ca

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N I C H E culture

twinkle

twinkle D

iamonds are an interesting proposition. For every person, in every nation, diamonds have a distinctiveness that reaches far beyond their glorious physical being. Diamonds draw on the emotions of humans, for as long as they have been in existence they have been used to signify the finer things in life; love, marriage, glamour, new beginnings, memories. Their rarity and individual significance make them our most emotionally profound treasure.

Diamonds will forever be regarded as the world’s most timeless beauties, and their sophistication promises to inspire in one way or another.

TIFFANY & C O . – B E AUTY P E RSONIFI E D

American glamour evolved by the light of Tiffany diamonds.

From the opulent gilded age to the jazz age that transformed fashion and culture, and from nightclubs to a whirl of black-tie balls, Tiffany & Co. gave each new era its style and brilliance - Tiffany Blue Book, Preview 2013 t i f fa n y. c a 30

inspiration 2013

JEWELLER TO THE STARS MARK LASH –

RAR E INV E STM E NT – C OLOURFUL G E MS

Celebrity jewellery designer Mark Lash describes what diamonds mean to him: “Throughout my career I have always enjoyed working with diamonds as they are precious and signify luxury…most importantly they signify love.” Lash points out the current trend of pink and yellow diamonds and their regarded place in fashion this season. His personal favourite design? A cushion cut diamond with micro-set diamonds around the centre diamond of the ring and along the band. The ring makes a statement yet remains elegant and understated (shown here).

Diamonds are gaining momentum as a secure investment opportunity, with the finest stones appreciating wealth with age, just like a fine wine. Canadian company, Rare Investment specializes in high end, investment quality diamonds.

Renowned for a spectacular range of natural fancy coloured diamonds, they have acquired an impressive selection of stones from all over the world – perfect for an investment or simply a superb gift for your beloved.

marklash.com

r a r e i n v e s t m e n t. c o m

Big girls need big diamonds.

- E l i z a b e t h Tay l o r

niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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N I C H E home

Tangerine dreams design p e r s p ec t i v e

H o m e i n s p i r at i o n f o u n d i n u n e x p ec t e d p l a ce s

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in s p i r a t i o n 2 0 1 3

I

by Sylvia Day | design columnist

think that each of us has a lonely space in our home.

You know… the room that sits there collecting, dust and overflow clutter from the rest of the house; the space that is screaming out to be brought back to life. It might be a spare bedroom that is never used. It might be a den or a second living space that serves no functional purpose in your everyday life. How about the sunroom on the back of your house that has become one of those rooms that you are just ‘passing through’?

Perhaps it is time to shake things up and redecorate that unloved space in your home? Sometimes all you need is an idea, a purpose and a little inspiration. That’s where NICHE comes in… niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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N I C H E home

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inspiration 2013

M o v e Y o u r s e l f.

Just like anything else in life, it is difficult to get going on a project if you are not motivated. With personal fashion, we are often motivated to spruce up our wardrobe because of seasonal trends and by seeing what other people are wearing. Personal fashion is a very public affair.

On the other hand, home fashion is a much more personal affair, and because others don’t always see those forgotten rooms, we are left uninspired. The internet, magazines and furniture stores are a great place to find inspiration. Discover what you like, what you want and embrace the aspirations you have for your home.

Now – move! Take a long, slow tour of your own home. As you move from room to room, be mindful of how you use each room, whether it is doing its job and could it be used for something else – something better. Take along your cell phone or digital camera – take pictures of what you see in each room. Take along a pad and pen – take notes of what you feel in each room.

Isn’t it Odd? If you are like me, you probably find it fascinating that because a floor plan states that ‘this’ space is a dining room, that it must be used for that function forever and ever. Why? Culturally, we don’t dine formally any longer so in many homes, that eating space sits alone – rarely used.

A sunroom is often an underutilized space in a home because of the sun and its removed location, but what could be more wonderful than waking up to the brilliant light of Mother Nature each morning?

G E T TH E

look

consult the RETAIL THERAPY BUYERS GUIDE on page 94

As you continue to move through your home, keep your eyes and your mind wide open. There may be a better place for the home office; perhaps you could turn your dining room into a playroom for your growing brood and what about creating an inspiring private master retreat in that unused sunroom?

De f i n e y o u r o w n i n s p i r a t i o n .

Despite what you read in magazines and see on television, there truly are no hard and fast rules about how you decorate a space in your home. Yes, there is questionable taste. I will give you that and sure, there are interior design rules that certainly do work when it comes to symmetry, balance, and space planning. However, if you want to break the rules – go ahead! Create an inspiring place that speaks to your lifestyle and your personality.

Twenty years ago, no interior designer would have created an entire room in vibrant turquoise blue and vivid tangerine orange. Today, it is one of the most trending colour combinations in home fashion. Hot pink and lipstick red; baby blue and chocolate brown; rich eggplant and bright yellow - all great and unexpected colour pairings.

If you recall in our Design Perspectives article in issue 2 [Playful Décor], we talked about the importance of layering and not being afraid of using different patterns to really bring a room to life. Patterned fabrics and the bold use of colour have a huge impact on a room. Luckily, fabric and paint don’t have to last a lifetime so if you make a boo-boo, get tired of a pattern or want to change your look seasonally, it is very easy to do. Just look around you and be inspired!

p i l l o w & l a m p | Homesense

Share your inspiration & WIN! To celebrate this Inspiration Issue, NICHE magazine wants you to show us your inspiration! Visit our website - NICHEmagazine.ca – click on the HOME INSPIRATION link, fill out the short form, and upload an image of a room or space in your home that you have transformed. Top ten entrants will win a 1-year subscription to NICHE magazine, and one lucky winner will be featured in a future issue of NICHE! Deadline to enter is midnight PST on August 31, 2013. nichemagazine.ca

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N I C H E beauty

b eau t y [ re] mar k s the tools

Kim Kardashian, socialite, reality TV star and mommy-to-be, has a fabulous long lashed, smokey eye signature look.

glam inspiration

W

by Sara Rose | beauty columnist

e all want what we can’t have. And if you say no, I say LIES! I myself want luxurious, long, voluminous, curly hair that looks good blowing in the wind. Seriously.

Mariah Carey can do it, so can Sara Rose. So let’s discuss working with what you’ve got and finding ways to enhance what you want - to a certain extent that is. We don’t want to approach the world where scare tactics are our beauty tactics.

Eyes, cheeks, lips, nose, skin, lashes, brows. When browsing magazines checking out all of these fabulously flawless airbrushed models and actresses, what catches your eye? Who do you look towards for style inspiration? For myself (besides Mariah’s flowing locks), I yearn for the glistening accents of dewy skin, and that is what I love to work towards.

Spending years in frustration or upset with what you don’t have is not the way forward. Start to see the beauty in what you were gifted with.

Begin with your basics. We all have a canvas so let’s figure out how to achieve two of the most distinctive looks. Whether you are after the glam Kim Kardashian polish or the youthful dew of grungy Charlotte Free, there are a few mandatory starting points. First, have you cleaned your canvas and makeup brushes? For that matter do you own brushes?

Makeup brushes will make a huge difference in your daily application.

Five minute face, meet five simple brushes. Admittedly, your collection will grow but for now begin with a foundation, powder, cheek, brow and shadow brush.

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inspiration 2013

For those Kim K. polished princesses let’s learn to layer. Beneath your batting lashes begin on the under eye and make use of a luminizing pen or product, which traditionally has a built in brush for use. This will be the beginnings of awakening your sleeping beauty. Next is to find a dense foundation brush to beat that beauty on your face. A full coverage foundation, such as Estee Lauder Double Wear or Stila Stay All Day Foundation and Concealer, are precisely what you need. Apply as you see fit, don’t forget to blend through the jaw region, we’ve all seen that mismatched foundation line which we are definitely not going for. Carry on to translucent powder (with a fluffy powder brush or puff), which works wonders in perfecting your work of art, so powder on. Note: Veer away from your under eye as powder can emphasize lines.

Next, begin the true transformation by sculpting or contouring your features such as cheeks, nose and jaw line with a sculpting powder. This technique is best done with a dense, slanted brush, as you don’t want defined lines, you want blended shadows. Although you may feel a bit colourless at this point, carry on to your brows which work as the best structural enhancer. Whether you prefer a brow powder or a brow pencil, both will capture perfection.

beautyninetofive.com

eyes

Here is where things can get tricky: the eyes. Get creative. Pair a cat eye liner with a pouty matte nude lip.

Blend out a smokey eye to vamp up the vixen within. Polished princesses rely on the highlight and contour techniques, so begin basic. This is not judgment day, so play around with it and work what you’ve got!

ta ba se of S ea rc h a da re su m es ed en pr e- sc re bs an d re ac h Po st yo ur jo idates qualified cand thousands of

beauty jobs in Canada BeautyNinetoFive

BeautyNine2Five

Grunge inspiration Our Charlotte Free grunge look is a bit easier to achieve and focuses on youthful, light, dewy skin. This is where you will be using BB creams, radiant light foundations or tinted moisturizers. The age of grunge is back and I’m loving every minute of it! Don’t see the word BASIC as a bad thing as it flows with BEAUTIFUL, which is what you can achieve.

Choose a dense, fluffy foundation brush so buffing in your beauty is not a struggle. Keep your application light, unless there are some face foes in need of hiding. Get your hands on a brow brush as accentuating your brows, darker and fuller, will draw the best kind of attention. And if this is not enough, work with lip stains and balms to brighten your pout, paired with either a flash application of mascara or a smudged cat eye. Your party girl will be ready to rock from day to night.

C h a r l o t t e F r ee , a professional

fashion model known for her pink hair, was discovered in 2010 playing video games in an arcade.

Although you may be shaking your head in self-denial in achieving the above looks, I have faith in your abilities! Begin with the basics and go from there.

5 b r u s he s + 5 m in u t e s = FAB f a ce

Aspire to inspire and work with what you have.

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We achieve this by tailoring our services and experiences for each client depending on their individual style, wants and needs.

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luvhairsalon.ca

N I C H E well now

5 LIFE LES S ONS you can learn from

O

by Catriona Ross | lifestyle columnist

prah Winfrey's beginnings, as she likes to remind people, were decidedly unpromising. The unwanted result of the chance meeting of Vernon Winfrey and Vernita Lee under an oak tree, she was born into rural Mississippi at a time when black women were second-class citizens. But she always knew she was destined for a different life to that of her mother and grandmother. Now, Oprah is one-woman proof that selfbelief and determination can give you wings with which to rise above circumstance and become something great.

In her working life, she celebrates the hard-won lessons learnt by celebrities, by ordinary people who've achieved the extraordinary, and by herself along the way.

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h e r e ’ s w h at s h e

1

discovered.

L i s t e n t o y o u r w h i s p e r s . “What you should

be doing with your life comes to you in a whisper, then a message, then a crisis, then a disaster,” Oprah once told an audience in Johannesburg, South Africa. How often have you looked back at a relationship that turned abusive, a job that left you drained, an investment scheme that seemed too good to be true, and thought, ‘Deep down, I had doubts all along?’ One of Oprah's mantras is 'Doubt means don't': when something doesn't feel right, don't rush forward. Listen instead.

2

Oprah tells the unusual story of an American woman who discovered that her true passion in life was...plucking eyebrows. Now a sought-after eyebrow guru who charges substantial dollars to pluck imperfect brows into shape, she uses her talent to the service of others and makes thousands of women feel like movie stars. Which just goes to illustrate one of Oprah's core beliefs: not everyone can be famous, but everyone can be great.

We all have a God-given gift and a passion, and it's our job to find out what this is and use it.

F i n d y o u r pa s s i o n .

3

t h o u g h t s . One of the reasons Oprah Winfrey is a household name today is because, deep down, she always believed she was worth more than the package life initially offered her. You become what you believe, she says. Growing up in Mississippi in the 1950s, she was expected to grow up poor, with few prospects, but, she says, “I never believed that would be my life.” When she was four, her grandmother told her to watch and learn how she boiled clothes in a giant pot and hung them out, because she'd have to do this too one day. Oprah remembers thinking, 'No, I won't.' If you believe you'll never be happy, never be a success, never find a job you love, you'll inadvertently make that your reality. Your beliefs can either propel you forward or hold you back, Oprah maintains. Pay attention to your thoughts and beliefs, and create a vision for what you want.

powerful

4

5

S tay i n t h e m o m e n t. This is one of Oprah's favourite stress-busting tools. Instead of expending emotional energy on worrying about what should have happened or what might happen next - stay focused on the present. Try to keep your energy for right now. The present moment is where you have impact and choices, whereas you have no control over what is past or what is to come. Try her method for getting centred when you start feeling stressed: go somewhere quiet, take a deep breath in, hold it for a few seconds, and release it. Continue slowly inhaling and exhaling. As you focus, surrender to what's beyond your control, and concentrate on what you're presented with right now.

L i g h t e n u p ! Life is complex and offers many things, difficulties, lessons, pain, rewards but it can also be tremendous fun. Every day, Oprah believes, is an opportunity to laugh, sing, kick up your heels and dance. You're frequently presented with moments in which you can feel the wind on your face and the exhilaration of being alive. Don't miss those moments.

DON ’ T B E A BYSTAND E R

in your own life. nichemagazine.ca

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charity • fashion • dinner • celebrity • entertainment • auctions

1st Annual Charity Soiree Fairmont Empress Hotel ~ Saturday June 8 2013 An inspirational evening of elegance and awe, this experience begins at Government Street, where guests are treated to a true VIP red carpet welcome, the Palm Court transformed into the most stunning cocktail lounge, featuring fashion art installations and silent auction offerings.

The sensational Crystal Ballroom will play elegant host to a sumptuous sit-down dinner, celebrity entertainment and live auction. The evening rounds out with music and dancing.

charitable information The Cridge Transition House for Women & Women for Women International Education Program

special guests

ticket information

MARY ZILBA - Real Housewives of Vancouver CASSANDRA HOBBINS - NBC’s Fashion Star

Only 270 tickets will be sold.

Corporate/VIP tables and single tickets available.

Purchase online: NICHEmagazine.ca/nicheball

N I C H E fashion

the look Skirt O s c a r d e

l a Re n t a

(Courtesy of Bisou Bridal)

Necklace E x p r e s s i o n

& topshop

fairy tale

couture Shot on location at

H at l e y pa r k &

Craigdarroch castle niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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N I C H E fashion

Carlie Wong draws inspiration from travel, music, architecture and history to create a collection that is a distinctive collaboration of classicism and modernism. Recognized for feminine and luxurious women’s wear, this British Columbian’s fairy tale couture story began when Wong was shot into designer superstardom after being a designer on Project Runway Canada in 2007. The Carlie Wong label is a sophisticated line recognized by intimate silhouettes, neutral colours and fine imported fabrics. the look Gown C a r lie Wong Necklace Expr es s ion & Earrings Alex Fr aga 42

in s p i r a t i o n 2 0 1 3

t o p sh o p

the look Gown Patrick

Zha n

Photographer Christin Gilbert

Model N i c o l e T u s z n i o [ M o d e M o d e l s / IMG M o d e l s ]

MUA/Hair Stylist E m i ly C h e n g

Wardrobe Stylist A l e x a Ke l l ee niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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N I C H E fashion

the look Caped dress Josephin e Necklace Ca rolee Lux Bracelet T. Ta ha ri vintage leather gloves

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in s p i r a t i o n 2 0 1 3

Li

the look Gown Ca rlie Won g Shoes L.A.M.B. Model’s Own Lace Gloves niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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N I C H E travel

TRAVEL BITES DELICIOUS secret MACY’S a

at

Women’s coats, bathing suits and duck pot au feu

T

by John Grossmann | travel columnist

he champagne has been poured. Waiters pass platters of lobster-filled daikon rolls, mozzarella with black olives on toast, and homemade liverwurst canapés. Executive Chef Gabriel Kreuther of New York’s The Modern is at the stove, about to cook a five-course dinner.

New York is awash in tasting meals, but none boasts the pedigree, the revolving roster of star chefs, the sense of theater, the unfashionable nightly seating time of 5:30 pm, or anything remotely like the out-of-the-way, out-of-the-ordinary location of the $95 dining experience named after the start of a Latin phrase for ‘Of taste there is no dispute.’

To claim your seat you must enter Macy’s flagship store and make your way to the eighth floor. Proceed past the women’s coats (or bathing suits, depending on the season) to a security guard manning a drab workers’ corridor. Your password: De Gustibus.

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in s p i r a t i o n 2 0 1 3

People who love to eat are always the best people. - J u l i a C h i l d

nichemagazine.ca

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N I C H E travel

Before the term foodie worked its way into the lexicon, long before the Food Network was born, there was the De Gustibus Cooking School in Manhattan, which some have called The Miracle on 34th Street. Considering its humble origins 30 years ago, it is, indeed, a miracle the school survived its salad days.

But survive it has, and more than 600 chefs later, offers a unique and rewarding dining experience some 130 nights a year.

What it isn’t: a white tablecloth, fine dining night on the town. The stemware and plates are stylish, but you get a paper placemat and paper napkin. What it is: a cooking show come to life, enlivened with questions from the audience, and offering not simply the sights and sounds of gourmet food preparation, but also the beguiling smells and, most importantly, the ability to taste the dishes, which are prepared en masse in a backstage prep kitchen by the chef ’s brigade and the De Gustibus staff.

This being a cooking school, you sit at one of eight long tables facing the stagelike kitchen set-up, which bears an overhead mirror that now shows Chef Kreuther stirring abalone mushrooms in a skillet with garlic and thyme. The take home booklet of tonight’s recipes indicates the mushrooms will be combined with mussels, a paprika vinaigrette, toasted almonds, and shredded Iberico ham. Kreuther adds four of five tablespoons of water to a heating saucepan of grapeseed oil, explaining in his Alsatian accent, “When it gets to the right heat, 160, 170 degrees, you’ll have the water bubbling, and that will tell you to put it on the side and let it steep. This way you won’t burn the paprika. It will stay red and not turn brown.” A dozen pens ink that tip in the margins of the recipe.

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inspiration 2013

Who comes? Dedicated home cooks seeking just such expert advice. Jaded restaurant goers seeking something different.

Moms and Dads bringing budding young chefs. Star-struck food lovers seeking a close encounter with a celebrity chef like Wolfgang Puck or Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Thomas Keller, Bobby Flay or Cat Cora, five of the many visiting chefs whose so-called Forever Young photos--most taken before they became mega celebrities--line three walls of the room. Dating couples come to De Gustibus. Some nights you’ll see a creative business executive treating clients to a novel night on the town.

“How many of you have been to The Modern?” asks tonight’s hostess, Arlene Feltman Sailhac, a last minute replacement for De Gustibus owner-director Sal Rizzo, who had emergency Achilles heel surgery earlier in the day. About one-third of the four-dozen in attendance raise a hand.

Feltman Sailhac, the co-founder and driving force behind De Gustibus, sold the cooking school to Rizzo in 2008, but has remained on board, offering with her husband, Chef Alain Sailhac, gastronomic vacations to such food havens as Provence and Sicily. Clearly, she could not make a complete break from her culinary offspring. Even today, she speaks of the school’s early days like a proud, but once-embattled mother telling parenting war stories.

ce le br it y c h ef

Wolfgang Puck

Tonight’s food proves delicious, the dishes all menu favorites at The Modern and on a par with the platings there. After the mushroom and mussel appetizer, and basically in step with Chef Kreuther’s demonstrations, the De Gustibus waitstaff delivers: a chilled cucumber soup with white anchovies and manchego cheese; then roasted halibut with seasonal vegetables and a traditional Alsatian peasant burnt bread sauce; next the meat course, a playful duck ‘pot au feu’ two ways--the breast with seasonal vegetables and a basil emulsion, the foie gras on olive toast. Dessert is a light buttermilk panna cotta with concord grape marmalade and Aleppo pepper.

After the champagne, a Tattinger brut, comes a dry white Meursault; then a premier cru red burgundy. Second pours are offered on all three wines.

Throughout, the tone is convivial, and as the wine flows, so does the stream of questions to the chef.

“What temperature do you sweat vegetables?”

De Gustibus, Feltman Sailhac will tell you, was born of a visionary, but rather naive notion that she, then a supervisor of the speech clinic at City College, and an equally food-loving colleague shared: “Oh, wouldn’t it be fun to invite chefs to come and speak.” The two wrote such chefs as Perla Myers, Jacques Pepin, Paula Wolfert, and Giuliano Bugialli. All said yes. “Then,” recalls Feltman Sailhac, “we realized, oh my god, we need a space.”

A Carnegie Hall annex, hurriedly rented on a dark Monday night, hosted the first class. Myers, the inaugural chef, effectively paved the way when she announced: “I’m not going to speak for three hours, I need to cook.” She made do with an extension cord and an electric frying pan. Afterwards, everybody left their auditorium seats and came on stage to pick at the chicken breasts she’d sauteed. A change of venue, to TOMI Hall at the Theatre Opera Music Institute, saw Julia Child, Marcella Hazan, and others on stage (again on a dark Monday night) cooking in front of whatever scenery would greet opera goers the following evening. Students ate off paper plates. Regulars, known affectionately as ‘the box people,’ improved their lot by improvising personal cardboard laptop tables.

When the school moved to Macy’s Herald Square store, initially in a different spot on the 8th floor, De Gustibus enjoyed its first proper cooking facilities. But it still shared space with the department store’s puppet theater and had to make way for the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. In 1997, classes moved to the current location off the selling floor, where, as soon as the first sip of sparkling wine hits your lips, you forget all about the surrounding retailing hubbub.

“Medium, you want no colour.

You’re not caramelizing them.”

“What kind of white wine do you use

for cooking the mussels?”

“A cheap white wine,” says Chef Kreuther.

“Not the white wine we’re drinking,” jokes Feltman Sailhac.

Rizzo, buttonholed at a later date when he returned to work on crutches, tells of Becco Executive Chef William Gallagher making rice balls and a complementary ragu that several astute students did not feel was completely elucidated in the printed recipe. Someone pressured him. “What else is in there?” “Okay,” he said, “I’ll give you my secret.” You could hear a knife slice through pate. “A cinnamon stick.”

Even experienced cooks, like Linda Lewis, a retired New York City French and Spanish teacher who has been coming to five to eight De Gustibus classes annually for years, finds she’s always gleaning culinary tips. “I was going to buy a set of pans and so I asked Jacques Pepin for advice. He said never buy a complete set, because certain pans are better for certain tasks--stainless steel in some instances, nonstick in others. Lots of people make corn bread in a cast iron skillet.”

Even a food industry careerist like Rizzo, formerly director of operations and events at the James Beard House, finds he, too, learns things, as he did at the sparkling wine class taught by John Ragan, wine director and sommelier at Eleven Madison Park. “He included a $20 sparkling wine from New Mexico [Gruet, Brut, Blanc de Noirs, Methode Champenoise] that was delicious,” says Rizzo. “That was an a-hah moment for everyone, including me.” nichemagazine.ca

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N I C H E travel

De Scoop on De Gustibus 1. Sign up early--Not just for the classes (www. degustibusnyc.com), which can sell out, but on the daily signup sheet by the 8th floor security guard. Regulars, aware that the room fills by the order of the names on the sheet, know to stop by at lunchtime to be high on the list.

2. Grab a second row seat--You want to be close to the chef and to the aromas, but not in the front row, where the mirror views are less than optimal.

3. Take the escalator-- Macy’s elevators can be uncomfortably packed with heavily laden shoppers. Besides, the escalator is an old fashioned charmer.

4. Take notes--Annotate the recipes with the added chefs tips and your comments on the dishes. You’ll do a better job of cooking them at home.

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in s p i r a t i o n 2 0 1 3

Rizzo encourages his students to visit the chef ’s restaurants, to mention De Gustibus when they make the reservations, and ask when they check in with the hostess, if the chef is in that night. Often, he says, the chef will make an appearance at the table, and maybe he or she will send out a special amuse or an extra dessert.

Michael Hill, a computer software exec and frequent denizen of the front of the room, has attended De Gustibus classes since the school’s beginning. He and his partner Ron Bricke have 700 cookbooks in their Manhattan apartment. Even so, attending as many as a dozen classes a year, they find they often cook from De Gustibus recipes. The reason is simple. “De Gustibus gives you a chance to taste the recipe before you’ve invested all the time in cooking it,” says Hill.

My only quibble, I share with Hill after the class has ended: no coffee with dessert.

“Remember,” he says, “it’s not a relaxing meal. It’s a cooking class.” Then he cites another distinguishing feature of De Gustibus. “I’ve just had a wonderful meal and it’s now 8:30.

I can still go out.”

global cuisine. local

flair.

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N I C H E culture

W h e n m o d e r n fa s h i o n c o l l i d e s w i t h t h e a n c i e n t a r t o f tat t o o i n g

E NT INV E R AUTY E B

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Tattoos have a power and magic all their own. They decorate the body but they also enhance the soul.

- M i c h e l l e De l i o , a u t h o r Tattoo – The Exotic Art of Skin Decoration

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by Tracey Drake

argot Mifflin, in her book Bodies of Subversion: A Secret History of Women and Tattoo, 3rd Edition says that in 2012, for the first time in history, tattooed women outnumbered tattooed men in the United States (23% versus 19%). Canada isn’t far behind.

Celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, David Beckham, Rihanna, Lena Dunham, and Johnny Depp have played a big role in making the art of beautiful inking a mainstream fashion statement. Done right and tattoos take on a life of their own, dancing on the flesh with vibrancy and determination.

Tattoos have seen a dramatic resurgence in North American popular culture.

The growing mainstream interest has also affected advancements in tattoo pigments and equipment. With progress comes higher quality inks and tattoos being produced that are truly spectacular works of art.

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A widespread interest in the art of tattooing began in the 1990s and became significantly evident on the female body in the 2000s, spurring several reality television shows including LA Ink starring the world’s most famous tattooist, Kat Von D. Many believe that Kat has been a major influencer for women to get inked. Others believe it began in the 1970s – with Janis Joplin’s small heart tattoo on her left breast and tattooed wristlet being a pivotal moment in the widespread acceptance of tattoos as art.

While it may be true that some get a tattoo because it is trendy or is perceived as a unique fashion accessory; more often than not, a tattoo still has a tale to tell or a secret to keep.

My body is my journal, and my tattoos are my story.

- j o h n n y d e p p, a c t o r

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N I C H E culture

I am a canvas of my experiences, my story is etched in lines and shading, and you can read it on my arms, my legs, my shoulders, and my stomach.

- K at V o n D , tat t o o a r t i s t & s ta r o f LA I n k

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N I C H E fashion

Re t r o s p ec t i v e Pa s t / P r e s e n t / F u t u r e

by Shelia May | fashion columnist Valentino is known for more than his superb work as a couturier. The 80 year old Italian is a worldwide phenomenon recognized for his bold shade of teak skin, a life that puts the term lavish to shame, and an entourage of six quirky pugs who have taken on a celebrity of their own.

Born in Voghera, Italy, Valentino discovered his appetite for fashion in primary school. He studied in Paris at notable schools École des Beaux-Arts and the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.

After apprenticing under Jean Desses for five years and then Guy Laroche for two years, Valentino returned to Italy to open his own atelier in Rome on the renowned Via Condotti, with the financial support of his parents.

Valentino’s adoration for beauty and the superb life resulted in monstrous spending habits and while his first show in 1959 was a marvellous success the design house was on the verge of bankruptcy. On a summer day in 1960 Valentino met Giancarlo Giammetti at Café de Paris in Rome. The two went on to have a brilliant relationship, with Giammetti at the helm of the finances and business components.

Valentino’s major breakthrough as a top label in the fashion world was in 1962 where he showed a couture collection at the Pitti Palace in Florence for the first time.

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I hope people will say, ‘Mr. Valentino, he did something for fashion, no?’ - va l e n t i n o

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I am happy that thousands of students, young designers and fashion people will be able to see and study my work in every aspect of it.

- va l e n t i n o Exhibit One hundred and thirty iconic dresses were displayed in a curated exhibition honouring Valentino Garavani and his grand career as one of the finest couturiers in the world. The haute couture wonderland was comprised of specifically selected pieces portraying Valentino’s diversity in design. The gowns spoke of the Italian maestro’s affinity for perfection, excellence and beauty. Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1968 wedding dress seamlessly stood among Valentino’s more modern pieces, a perfect presentation of how truly timeless his designs are. Other gowns included ones worn

by Grace Kelly, Sophia Lauren and Julia Roberts. nichemagazine.ca

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LAST WORD:

va l e n t i n o

…on the topic of fashion “Even as a young boy, my passion was to design, and I have been very lucky to be able to do what I have loved all my life. There can be few greater gifts than that. I am especially grateful that I have been able to keep my own style over the decades, in spite of the many changes that have taken place in the world of fashion and in its business.”

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Time Line 1959 | Debuted legendary ‘Valentino Red’ dress 1965 | Recognized as the top name in Italian haute couture with

clients including Jacqueline Kennedy, Queen Paola of Belgium,

Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn and Princess Margaret 1967 | Awarded the Neiman Marcus Prize in Dallas 1986 | Received the highest award possible in Italy from the

President, the Cavaliere di Gran Croce (Knight Grand Cross) 1989 | Opened a cultural centre in Rome for art exhibitions and

cultural activities named the Academie Valentino 1990 | Valentino and Giancarlo Giammetti found L.I.F.E (initials

in Italian for “Fighting, Informing, Building, Teaching”) 1998 | Sold company to Holding di Partecipazioni Industriali (HdP)

for $300 million but stays on as designer 2006 | Valentino makes cameo appearance in The Devil Wears Prada 2007 | Announced his retirement 2008 | Final haute couture show before retiring from the world stage 2009 | Documentary Valentino: The Last Emperor premieres

at the Venice Film Festival 2011 | Launched the Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum

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N I C H E beauty

the birth of a beauty empire

MAYBELLINE

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by Sharrie Williams | celebrity columnist

om Lyle and Noel made several trips a day to the train station hauling mailbags by wheelbarrow - the post office would no longer tote them because of the commercial volume. Maybelline, like Lash-Brow-Ine was bringing in over a thousand orders a day, at 75 cents each. The grocery store chain, Pigley Wigley, and many dime stores also began placing orders. Soon Maybelline ads added ‘Obtainable at your cosmetic dealer’.

“We need help,” Noel said one evening. He, Tom Lyle and Mabel were the only ones filling orders.

After working under the gaze of corporate management, Noel relished the change from stifling office work, to collecting mail from the train station and managing customers directly. As a newlywed, however, he wanted to spend his evenings with Frances.

Tom Lyle sent word to his family. His brother Preston and baby sister Eva joined them right away. Their parents sold the family farm and moved to Chicago as well.

The advance of technology had already begun to squeeze out small farmers, and the Kentucky homestead no longer offered a prosperous future.

Most of the family felt blessed to have such success and be together again. Eva enjoyed removing the coins stuck to postcards, stuffing packages and mailing orders to customers. Mabel had long since secured her place within the business.

Preston, however, did not feel blessed. He had nothing to add to the company’s business plan. He hated having to sell the farmland that had been in the family for a hundred years and blamed Tom Lyle for its loss. Still full of farm aspirations and cowboy dreams, he felt completely out of place and adrift, an alien in a strange land. Independent and not just a little bit wild, his athletic body and rebellious nature were meant for adventuring, not women’s cosmetics. Charming, but dark and brooding, Preston had always been trouble, and trouble he would remain.

Preston talked big about his plans to go on adventures. But none of his plans had any substance to them, and you would be more likely to find him relaxing on the river with a fishing pole or drinking with his buddies than anything else.

At eighteen, it never occurred to him that he lacked motivation, and instead, he felt jealous of his wildly successful older brother, Tom Lyle.

The Barnum and Bailey Circus came to town, and Tom Lyle thought a family outing like old times might be helpful. While enjoying watching the trained horses, both Tom Lyle and Preston noticed a petite ballerina on one of the ponies. She couldn’t have been more than sixteen or seventeen. There was something quite spell-binding in her pale blue eyes made dramatic with theatrical make-up. Oh, to have those eyes in Maybelline ads, Tom Lyle thought. Preston seemed taken with her as well. Tom Lyle noticed her several more times under the big top that night and then, he forgot about her.

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S h a r r i e W i l l i a m s is the heir to the Maybelline legacy, Tom Lyle Williams’ great-niece and Evelyn Boecher Williams’ granddaughter. Growing up in their homes, and steward of the vast Maybelline archives, Williams tells the story of the birth of the Maybelline Empire and reveals intimate details about the fascinating family dynasty. Throughout 2013, NICHE invited Sharrie to give readers an inside look into this beauty empire – sharing excerpts from her book, The Maybelline Story, available online at Maybellinebook.com & amazon.ca

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N I C H E travel

Centreof Now

the

A r m a ni H o t e l D u b a i

I n t h e B u r j K h a l i fa skyscraper, the world’s ta l l e s t b u i l d i n g

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photos provided by: armani hotel dubai

hidden gems

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by Chelsea Forman

ubai is the city that proved that anything is possible with a bit of imagination, some science and a lot of money. The sandy city, located on the Persian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates, is where dreamers go to give their wildest ideas life. Among the major Dubai players is famed fashion designer Georgio Armani, who made his hotelier debut in the spectacular city.

Offering visitors an unprecedented Arabian experience is the Armani Hotel Dubai, designed in collaboration by Georgio Armani and leading developer Emaar Properties PJSC. Together the team has built a remarkable new benchmark in the city.

The property is a superb reflection of the designer’s exquisite clothing line, reeking of sophistication and luxury. It truly has the air of one of Armani’s impeccable suit collections. Armani personally designed all aspects of the hotel from services, menus, amenities, tailored furnishings and a selection of very exclusive boutiques. Touches of Armani’s elegance and signature style can be seen in a variety of precious materials and chic finishes.

Armani believes that travel is a deeply emotional journey, thus the Armani Hotel Dubai partners every guest with a Lifestyle Manager who acts as a personal host from the moment they make a reservation to the time they check out and occasionally beyond. nichemagazine.ca

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W h at t o d o : 1. Dine at one of the hotel’s eight restaurants and gaze over the awe inspiring views of Downtown Dubai 2. Experience one of Armani’s three exclusive retail outlets: Armani/Galleria, the only place in Dubai where the Giorgio Armani/Privé collection is showcased.

Armani/Dolci, a spectacular confectionary store.

Armani/Fiori, a floral boutique offering the finest fresh flowers and exclusively designed vases by Giorgio Armani 3. Indulge at the Armani/SPA, offering fully customized sensory experiences 4. Walk to The Dubai Mall, the world’s most elaborate shopping and entertainment destination. Watch the Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing water feature

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Re f l ec t i n g t h e p u r e e l e g a n ce a n d s o p h i s t i c at e d c o m f o r t t h at d e f i n e Ge o r g i o A r m a n i ’ s s i g n at u r e s t y l e

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N I C H E beauty

Face it!

The hottest beauty buys of the season

by Sara Rose | beauty columnist

You may think you need to stick to high end makeup counters for the latest and greatest products, but that’s not necessarily the case.

Did you know that some of the most affordable products are used to primp models at major fashion shows in New York, London and Paris? Believe it! Here’s a look at some of the most affordable behind the scenes products, available at drugstores nationwide:

day Every R i m m e l – W a k e Me U p F o u n d at i o n M a r ce l l e – BB C r e a m

Instant gratification for all skin types. Marcelle recreated its own 8-in-1 formula that perfects your beautiful base. ($22.95)

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Brighten your beautiful base! For an all over light to medium coverage that gives that “What have you changed in your skincare?” look. ($12.99)

– For the days your lashes are lacking that seductive lustre, add a hint of life to your eyes.

Ardell provides a variety of products for shape, length, density and fluttering fun.

Ardell Lashes

($5.99)

M ay b e l l i n e GR E AT LASH –

No smudges. NO budges…why it’s Maybelline.

With over 40 years of flirting with the industry, this perfected and recognizable item can be found in six variances. Don’t overlook the clear GREAT LASH product either, GREAT for taming those outlandish brow hairs you’ve been attempting to pat down for years. ($7.99)

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N I C H E fashion

D r e s s f o r t h e b o d y y o u h av e

and love it!

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by Erin Bradley | style columnist mbracing the body you have and dressing for it is the best way to look great and feel comfortable in your clothing, no matter what size or shape you are.

We all want to accentuate what we love about our bodies and downplay the rest. To make the most of the body you have, you first need to figure out your shape. Our bodies don’t always fit into the well-known hourglass, pear, slim or apple categories so here are a few simple tips to help you understand what makes your body unique.

Stand in front of a full length mirror in a good bra and whatever else will allow you to assess your shape. Take a deep breath and be nice while you take a look at your beautiful body and consider these three things.

1.

Are the widths of my shoulders and hips the same or different?

2.

H o w h i g h i s m y wa i s t a n d i s i t

e r in b r a d l ey Style Director, Uptown uses her passion for beauty and style to help people embrace their own approach to style and feel great about presenting themselves to the world.

well-defined or not?

3.

Is my torso (inseam to shoulders) long or short in proportion to my legs?

Understanding these simple things about your body will help you to determine where you need to balance your shape with the correct style of clothing. For example, to emphasize narrow shoulders choose tops that have structure in the shoulder area like a blazer or a shirt with shoulder-length sleeves.

One thing that is common with any shape is the need to define your waist and draw attention to the narrowest part of your torso. Look for jackets that cinch at the waist and shirts that have a defined shape.

Each individual woman’s body demands to be accepted on its own terms. - g l o r i a s t e i n e m what is your body type?

It takes some trial and error to figure out what will look great on your shape, but once you get there it makes shopping and dressing so much more fun. Remember, there are beautiful clothes for every body; you just have to find them. When you go shopping, be open to everything and don't make a decision until you try it on. Sizes are not very accurate so if it doesn't fit, try another size and don’t worry about it. If you find something you love, buy it. And if you don't love it figure out why and move on.

Dressing for your shape will help you to love your body! r ec ta n g l e

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round

pear

hour glass

N I C H E culture

It is amazing how complete is the delusion that beauty is goodness. - Le o T o l s t o y

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Arts & Finds

AndreaStajan--Ferkul Art Therapy for the Soul –

Let the Divine Feminine Guide You

by Jill Lang | arts columnist Yes, complete is the delusion of beauty since goodness can never be unnecessary. Superfluous maybe, but true art only exists in the divine. Lest we forget artist as universe’s play thing (not adhering to the bondage of Piscean misconception, of course); the artist is meant to joyfully and uninhibitedly create.

Some of us were put here for a reason, you know.

Beauty delights the sight and lifts the soul, which is why we should surround ourselves with beautiful things no matter the circumstance. Canadian fine artist Andrea Stajan-Ferkul believes in the essential beauty of women and understands that women feel better when they’re beautifully dressed. What a woman wears is an extension of herself, art and woman alike an expression of the divine. If you haven’t heard already, the divine feminine is going to save the world, on paintings, in your clothes and all around you. If you haven’t done so already, get acquainted.

While she’s always been creative, Stajan-Ferkul never intended to be a fine artist. She studied illustration and design, and then worked in the fashion advertising industry before shifting her focus to fine art.

When everything turned digital, she reassessed her direction in life and stumbled upon emitting a new signal. She let go and trusted in all that is good in the universe, and poof, the universe opened a portal to painting. Fashion just happened to be her niche.

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Beauty can be found in contradictions

For those of you afraid to leave your 9-5, take heart; in this world, you only struggle as much as you want to. Brilliance exists to be received, fine artists like Stajan-Ferkul exist to receive it. Her work is not exclusive to fashion, though it remains a recurring theme in her subject matter. “The painting subjects intrigue me the same as they do you,” she says. Her works reveal an aesthetic genius that captures heart and bravado all in one breath. She’s that woman, and through her, so are you.

Indeed the dresses on dressforms seem to live and breathe, leaving the viewer to wonder about who wears the dress. Has its woman recently stepped away? Something of her personality or perfume lingers. She’s human, this woman, delicate yet fierce.

She represents anyone. You can’t help but envision yourself in the dress…

Stajan-Ferkul believes that beauty exists in contradictions and says it can be found in the powerful aesthetic of glamour, as well as the charm of imperfection. Many of her fashion-centric works reflect this perspective as she explores perception of style and elegance as a whole, and its role in contemporary life.

As a staunch supporter of all that is good in the world, I found it challenging for the longest time to get comfortable with paradox until I discovered judgment surrounding contradictions exists only in duality. Of course the beauty of art is both divine and “unnecessary.” There’s no rat race to get to it. Divine beauty transcends the truth/ego paradigm and cannot be defined in the bounds of black or white. This basically lets us off the hook for being first creative, and second materialistic. We are material beings on a material plane. Let’s take a moment to celebrate via the creation and appreciation of art. Foolish consumerism notwithstanding, obviously we’re ‘allowed’ to collect beautiful treasures. Beauty, after all, is an experience. We’re supposed to treasure experience, right?

uptown girl

beautiful mess

Vintage illustrations like Puttin’ on the Ritz and Uptown Girl allow the viewer to experience the wild and hypnotic nature of women, and reflect an era of glamour when illustrators captured the spirit of the movement. This is what a woman looks like when she feels sexy. This is what she feels like. She remains live yet still as her emotions dance about her on the canvas. Your emotions dance about you. Sit back, relax; she’ll take you someplace good.

The white ballerina-esque dress in Beautiful Mess assumes the beauty of imperfection and is exactly that: a beautiful mess. We begin to understand and embrace the divine order of chaos as we’re swept away in its seductive play. Personally I would like to prance through airport security in this dress. niche m a g a z i n e . c a

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colours of the night

A l t h o u g h h e r i n t e n t i o n i s n ’ t s i m p ly t o i l l u s t r at e fa s h i o n , s h e e x p l o r e s p e r ce p t i o n o f s t y l e a n d e l e g a n ce a s a w h o l e , a n d its role in contemporary life Cocktails in Emerald City features a rich, green dress worn by Michaelle Jean (former Governor General of Canada) at a cultural event at Rideau Hall in Quebec where Stajan-Ferkul had the honour of exhibiting her artwork. “While looking radiant in a magnificent green ensemble,” says Stajan-Ferkul, “it was her inner radiance that struck me most, graciously moving the spotlight off herself and onto my paintings.”

Imagine floating into a room flush with admirers like a goddess. She has no legs, but damn, that’s a nice dress.

Stajan-Ferkul has spent years exploring colour and texture, and mixing traditional art processes with mixed media techniques. In the beginning her paintings were more illustrative, but over the years her focus has turned to fine art. Small works have grown larger and larger, with featured works ranging from 30”x60” to 36”x40”.

Life size pieces can be found setting rooms and holding spaces around the globe.

While the art and styles collaborate in their timelessness, her emphasis is always on bringing the emotional and intuitive elements of the theme to the piece. It’s as if each piece is a mirror reflecting back at you your own unique fabulousness, the experience curiously therapeutic. Did Stajan-Ferkul just crawl into your psyche and somehow make you feel good about yourself? Yes, this is exactly what she did, and she brought her pillow bed with her. Fine artist by day, Stajan-Ferkul is a true art therapist by night.

C o c k ta i l s i n e m e r a l d c i t y

N I C H E travel

t r avel w ith

n I C H E to... peru and the Sacred Valley of the Incas

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This city is the greatest and the finest ever seen in this country or anywhere in the Indies... We can assure your Majesty that it is so beautiful and has such fine buildings that it would be remarkable even in Spain.

- Francisco Pizarro in a letter about Cusco to King Charles I of S p a i n , b e f o r e h e l e a d t h e c o n q u e s t o f Pe r u

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You may think of me as a snarky cynical bastard…but here I don’t have a lot to say. The word beautiful really does not describe it, does it? ony Bourdain It’s inadequate. - oAnnMt ahcc h u P i cc u

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by Chelsea Forman

ucked in the lush jungle near the Urubamba Valley, surrounded by the sacred heights of the Andes Mountains is the archeological treasuretrove of Cusco. There are numerous romantic tales of the cities beginnings. Wondrous stories of magic, love, Children of the Sun and godly humans. While they make the city a little more whimsical the only known fact about Cusco’s great legacy is that the founding Inca’s (royals) and their great empire was one of the most highly advanced civilizations in human history. Many of the Inca’s structures are still in use and tremendous condition after thousands of years, making Cusco not only a World Heritage Site, but also a land of endless inspiration for historians, archeologists, architects and dreamers.

Cusco was merely the capital city of the massive Inca Empire, which at its height had eight million people under its control and stretched along the Andes from southern Colombia all the way to northern Argentina. Cusco was the ceremonial capital city where the direct blood descendants of the royal Incas resided along with all of the great treasure and wealth of the area at the time. Spanning approximately a mile long and a quarter of a mile wide the ancient city lines were built to resemble the sacred animal representation of earth, the puma, from an ariel perspective. The city was an ancient day nirvana, where all of nature’s finest glories intertwined in a beautiful harmony under a land ruled by a brilliant and respected royal family - until the 16th century when they were overthrown by the Spanish who carried foreign disease and unfamiliar weapons.

Flying into Cusco will be an experience within itself. As you look down over the valley with the city and its beautiful burnt orange roofs you will understand why it was named Cusco (deriving from the word Quosqo) meaning The Naval of the World. It really is the centre of its own realm at 11,000 feet above sea level making it one of the highest cities in the world. You will need to plan a few hours good rest upon arrival at your hotel; you can guarantee that your body will feel the severe elevation. The locals will often encourage you to sip on an ancient remedy called Mate de Coca to ward off the altitude sickness. Mate de Coca is a strong and very bitter tea made from the same lofty green leaves that cocaine is produced from.

When you finally venture out into the cobble stone streets you will be struck by the beauty of its people with their long black hair, beaten feet padding in sandals, and colourful woven clothes. The sense of their community and the simplicity of their lives and their happiness is remarkable. The city is a unique combination of old and new. The Inca walls hold up ornate colonial buildings in which you’ll find shops, cafes and fine restaurants offering cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca steaks.

The combination of the Incas imperial tastes and Spanish colonial pieces are very apparent and quite a striking mix in the city.

There is no shortage of impressive sights and historical wonders to admire. The Plaza de Armas (‘Square of the Warrior’) is the heart of the city, also the best place to start your visit and get familiar with your surroundings. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn with splendid views of the grand Catedral and Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús and watch the bustle of the area. The plaza was at the precise center of the Inca Empire, which was called Tawantinsuyo, meaning The Four Corners of the Earth. It has been the most lively part of the city since it was built thousands of years ago.

Downhill from the plaza is the more modern part of the city, including the business district at Avenida El Sol, here you will also find the outstanding Qorikancha temple (considered THE attraction of Cusco). Tales say that the barren stone walls of Qorikancha, meaning ‘Court of Gold’, were once plated with gold and in the center was an enormous golden disc to reflect the sun and bask the temple in its holy rays. The gardens were filled with beautiful waterfalls and flowers all made from the rarest jewels. nichemagazine.ca

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Mortar and the wheel never existed.

All of the Inca structures were made by hand and worn down with water and sand paper.

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Uphill from the Plaza de Armas are the older neighbourhoods including the complex pedestrian-only walkways in the notable San Blas district. The streets are steep but an afternoon in San Blas is a must. It’s the artisan, trendy neighbourhood of the city with some of the best restaurants and finest galleries. To the left of the plaza towering above the city in the distance is Sacsayhuaman. While the ruins of Sacsayhuaman (locals pronounce this as “sexy human”) are visible from the streets of Cusco you will need a half day trip to get there and properly enjoy. The ruins make up the head of the great puma of Cusco. Sacsayhuaman is the most obvious Inca structure standing, it was constructed with some 20,000 men in the 1400’s as a protective fortress for the city.

Spend at least two days in Cusco before venturing to the surrounding areas.

The moment you depart the city you will feel the change from a cultural experience to a more spiritual and relaxing journey of self.

There are plenty of small villages with spectacular historical sites throughout the Sacred Valley of the Incas on your way to Macchu Picchu. Remember: the Sacred Valley was where the Inca emperors went to unwind, this should be a time of complete relaxation and total awe for you. Your first stop, about 33km out of Cusco, is the colourful town of Pisac with a market that can’t be missed. Pisac is one of Perus most charming towns. From Pisac catch a bus to Ollantaytambo (fondly called Olly by locals and lovers of the town) and explore the ancient ruins. Ollantaytambo is where those brave souls will head off on the Inca Trail, a four day trek to the base of Macchu Piccu.

For those more interested in enjoying the sights in a comfortable seat over a beverage, the train may be the best bet. But – those are your only two options, there are no roads. Either way you will end up in the boisterous cloud forest town of Aguas Calientes at the base of the great Macchu Piccu.

Bus or walk to the top (takes about an hour). You have never seen a view until you have gazed off of Macchu Piccu.

TOFINO!

Plan a visit between April and August – This will be right after the rainy season so flowers will be in bloom and the weather will be nice and warm during the day and cool at night because it’s the Peruvian winter season.

The majority of the hotels in Cusco offer an abundance of history themselves with many being former monasteries, dwellings of sacred women or palaces.

Macchu Piccu, The Lost City of the Incas, was discovered by explorers in 1911 – although the Peruvian residents kept its existence a very well hidden secret for several hundred years. Never found by the Spanish, it was untouched for thousands of years. What exactly the ruins on Macchu Picchu are is still debatable. The most common belief is that the city in the sky was an Inca emperor’s country estate.

Regardless, sitting atop Macchu Picchu with its godly views will be a deeply profound and spiritual experience.

Open yourself to the sights, tastes and sounds of Cusco and invite the growth and change into your life that winding through the Sacred Valley of Urubamba exploring its many wonders will offer.

Cusco changes everyone, in one way or another, its colour, vitality, simplicity, people and history will leave a wonderful mark on you forever and inspire your days to come with a new perspective.

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N I C H E travel

a taste of the best

Iconic wines

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by Stuart Brown | wine columnist

s we progress in our love and exploration of wine, we start to taste better and better wines. Reaching high to the ‘Blue Chip’ wines from each region, sometimes we get an opportunity to taste a ‘Top Icon’.

When I get this opportunity, I get quite excited. Usually it is a oncein-a-lifetime chance to taste a wine so highly coveted but, more importantly, one that can take your breath away. A wine you can still taste every time you close your eyes. Iconic wines range greatly in price, but are typically upwards of $300 per bottle.

For all wine lovers, there is a time when we get to taste a wine, which may be an iconic wine, and this wine is better than any other we have ever tasted; the one that makes us realize that this great wine is more than just fermented grape juice.

The wine has developed into something more than the sum of its parts. We call this our epiphany wine. Our eyes and palates are opened with full revelation and our desire grows to prospect for even more.

Sometimes the experience is more exciting than the wine itself. The hype outlasts the flavour and balance of the icon; it doesn’t matter to me. To taste an icon is a great experience that I never forget. Sometimes the icon lives up to all of the hype. It brings me to a time and place I have never experienced previously.

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Stuart Brown is a sought after certified Sommelier who also serves as Vice Council Gastronomique for the Victoria Bailliage of La Chaine de Rotisseurs. Formerly the Sommelier at Bear Mountain Resort, Stuart now represents the wines of People, Place & Time with The Trialto Wine Group, and is an instructor for the International Sommelier Guild on Vancouver Island.

Heights never reached before. Long live this moment...

Most fine wine regions of the world have top wines that reach iconic status. They become legendary brands sought out around the world. Some of the original examples were from the British Empire and their love for the wines of top Chateaux in Bordeaux. Later, we saw examples of the U.S.A. market and the love for top French, Italian, Australian and American wines. In the modern era, we see China as a great consumer of the icon wines. Prices for top Bordeaux have been climbing due to the increase purchase in the Chinese market.

This trend is spreading to other icon wines as well, and we can foresee the prices of all icon wines increasing as the exploration, love, awareness and consumption of wine increases on a global scale.

Be l o w i s a l i s t o f s e v e r a l i c o n i c wines.

Re s a l e p r i ce s o f t h e s e wines is often much higher a f t e r y e a r s i n t h e ce l l a r .

The First Growth Bordeaux blends from the Le f t Bank:

Chateau Margaux ($1,800), Chateau LafiteRothschild ($2,550), Chateau Mouton-Rothschild ($1,800), Chateau Latour ($2,000), Chateau HautBrion ($1,800).

D o m a i n e d e l a R o m a n ee - C o n t i R o m a n ee - C o n t i Grand Cru ( DR C ) ( $ 1 2 , 0 0 0 ) : Top Grand Cru Burgundy

vineyards in France considered the best Pinot Noir wines in the world.

G r a n d C r u C l a s s e S t. E m i l l i o n and Pomerol Bordeaux top b l e n d s f r o m R i g h t B a n k : Chateau

Petrus ($3,800), Chateau Ausone ($2,200), Le Pin ($3,200), Chateau Cheval Blanc ($2,800).

Tenuta San Guido Ornellaia ($225), Antinori Solaia ($249), and several from Angelo Gaja ($500-$2,000).

I ta l i a n S u p e r T u s c a n s :

R i b e r a d e l D u e r o , S p a i n : Vega Sicilia Unico ($555). Made from Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and sometimes Merlot.

Australia: Penfolds Grange ($500), previously known as Grange Hermitage, is the best in the Australian section. Grange is mostly made of Shiraz (Syrah) with some Cabernet Sauvignon.

U n i t e d S tat e s : Screaming Eagle Cabernet

Sauvignon ($2,100), Harlan Estates ($900), Bryant Family ($700), Marcassin ($600), Colgin Cellars ($550), Opus One ($400).

F r a n ce : Krug Clos d’Ambonnay ($900), Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut ($600), Moët et Chandon Dom Perignon ($216), Louis Roederer Cristal Brut Millesime ($580).

C h a m pa g n e ,

N I C H E inside

First Retail Therapy Experience a huge success....

NICHE magazine hosted our first ever NICHE NIGHT OUT on Saturday March 16, 2013. Partial proceeds from the event went to The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada | British Columbia & Yukon Chapter, of which NICHE is a proud official sponsor.

night out

The night began with VIP beauty treatments at DesignHouse Salon, before we slipped into the luxury of first-class transportation with LA Limousine. Putting our champagne flutes down, we arrived at our Retail Therapy destination, Indigo Apparel, where we experienced a closed store, private shopping experience with an exclusive evening discount. With full bags, our courteous limo driver whisked us away to Glo Restaurant & Lounge. Uptown Style Director, Erin Bradley, gave us some great fashion pointers as we sipped on sumptuous martinis before dining on a delicious menu prepared just for us.

June 2013 our next

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check our Facebook for det ails face bo ok .co m/ NIC HEo

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With great memories and new friendships we can hardly wait for our next NICHE NIGHT OUT.

fa ce b o o k . c o m / NI C H E o n l i n e

Missed the event? try Glo’s mushroom risotto ball recipe at home

rice rborio oked A ms o o 3 c. co ushr ced m th o 2 c. sli r b le egetab 1 Ltr v r tte ¼ c. bu se n chee s e rm a n io ½ c. pa n o e d whit e ic d . c 1c d garli mince p s ste b T 1 er to ta e pepp it h w Salt &

: fing Stuf se e e rie ch ½ Lb b 4 eggs ead nko br 3 c. pa r u 1 c. flo parsley opped h c . c ½

c, e garli add th n e a h t rice in ze and ooked rameli c a c : e d h s t d to a n oast tio begins art to rice. T ntil it ing. St d i r ec io u n r r ll n o u a b b io r il e unt the on e from oked A ontinu Sautee the ric the co C t . s. d n ll ll n e e a a v into b ir in w ooms to pre isotto ime, st tantly mushr r t s e n a h o t t c a . Role ladle irring er. l dente th one pan, st e pepp ld be a ble bro u a t o e h g s e d whit e n ic a r , lt nko. d a a your v the p is use eese, s broth d with san ch a e e r m b r a of the d nd p . se an utter a shoots ie chee with b e of br nd pea c a li s s p a is Drizzle r o with esan c e risott , parm cream Stuff th o c s e om ting - R ted pla Sugges

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NICHE NIGHT OUT tasting menu A r a ncini di Ri s o Goats cheese stuffed saffron risotto ball, lightly fried served with tomato fennel cream

Taco trio Three house made corn tortillas tacos: Lightly fried spiced halibut, coleslaw and salsa verde; Hickory maple BBQ pulled chicken, banana peppers and cilantro; Braised Short Rib, cilantro and black bean corn salsa

Lobster Ravioli Lemon ricotta stuffed ravioli, butter poached lobster tail, spinach, lobster cream sauce & roasted ricotta

G l o S u nd a e Warm peanut butter chocolate fudge brownie topped with dark chocolate sauce, praline and espresso flake ice cream R e c i p e & menu c re a ti o n b y : Marc lagimodiere

m a r i o pa d i lla

Executive Chef

Sous Chef

N I C H E lifestyle

i n s paratio n

Treat your Inn er Ar t Form to a Spa Day

T

by Jill Lang | wellness columnist

here are people out there who consider the spa a guilty pleasure, but as far as I’m concerned the spa is unequivocally every woman’s birth right. Yes, a rendezvous at the spa is pure, seductive luxury, but there’s no shame in blatant appreciation of the body-mind-spirit. Think of the spa as nourishment for your inner art form. Feel good about receiving. You’re as important as anyone else who treats their self to the spa.

If you’ve never been spoiled at the spa, go. Seriously. Most women get it, but men always seem surprised yet delighted by the therapeutic benefits of manicures and pedicures. Guess what ladies, men like to be pampered too. Facials, massages, body wraps—yep, the works! I call them princess with a capital P. I’d have to say that my most favourite part of the spa is all of it. In fact, the best thing a man can do for our relationship is send me to the spa on my birthday. Although, I suppose glamorous, glimmering jewellery works, too. Actually, I’m a princess; I want both. It’s been proven that precious gems and metals offer healing and enhancing qualities to the human experience, and being pampered like a princess at the spa?

Try it. You might feel worthy. Healed, enhanced and worthy? That sounds like a wellness plan to me.

In Europe, health insurance providers cover partial costs for up to 21 health resort or spa days per calendar year as ordered by a doctor. Include yoga and other healing arts, and there’s no reason for us to neglect our health and well-being. Now imagine if healthcare covered yoga and spa days… Wouldn’t it be nice?

When honouring the divine art form within, start out the day with a rejuvenating steam bath followed by a relaxing splash in a gently heated mineral pool. Afterwards, bask in the insatiable pleasure of a hot rock massage, and be sure to schedule a body wrap and facial as these treatments are like whipping cream for the skin. Wrap up your spa-day-vouz with a manicure and pedicure, and then prop up your freshly bedazzled feet with a glass of champagne in celebration of your seriously fabulous self. This is but one spassibility.

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The term “spa” comes from the Belgian resort city Spa, which has been famed for its mineral springs since Roman times, although belief in the curative powers of mineral waters dates back to the dawn of civilization.

Ancient tradition suggests that bathing in the intelligence of water (thalassotherapy or sea healing) results in physical and spiritual purification. Traditional spa treatments cleanse the chakras, detox the body and strengthen the immune system.

Now offering HydraFacial™ A soothing, moisturizing, non-invasive skincare treatment for anyone who is looking to improve and maintain the health of their skin.

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N I C H E home

Art Deco Inspired Master Bathroom

E

by Sylvia Day | design columnist

very girl dreams of a room that offers quiet elegance and superb styling, a luxurious haven to retreat from a very busy world. The most private room in the house is often the master bath so make it your personal sanctuary – a space that is a true reflection of your lifestyle and personality.

C OLOUR PAL E TT E :

Many of BC’s homes and apartments date back to the turn of the last century; bursting with charm, high ceilings and coved windows. The bathroom is often filled with quirky character.

j a zz y j a d e t13-12

Yes, I know! Emerald green is the Pantone colour of the year (see the NICHE feature ‘Emerald City’ on page 18). But let’s be honest – deep, rich, jewel toned green is not exactly the most relaxing colour for a master bath.

Searching for a better option, I happened upon the Behr Paints 2013 colour trends – a collection that is sweet and serene with a touch of palpable glam.

If your space is more modern, or perhaps smaller, don’t despair! Put on your vintage cloche thinking cap, take the best bits from this Behr ‘Flapper Girl’ inspiration room and make it your own!

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b ee ’ s k n ee s t13-11

h e av y s u g a r t13-14

shanhai peach t13-15

The Inspiration Room With an obvious nod to the days of art deco living, the Behr inspiration room serves up the feminine colours and streamlined motifs that capture the fun and frivolity of the 1920s. Pastel jade and light pink add just the right amount of nostalgia, while dark navy trim adds a note of staccato. Polished chrome fixtures, oriental rugs and exotic flower patterns accent this theme, transporting you back to the days of flapper dresses and speakeasies.

N I C H E inside

retail therapy buyers guide

C OV E R Dot Bloom Necklace, Stella & Dot, StellaDot.com/TatianaRobertson, $208. F a r & Aw a y P a g e 9 HBC Wool Coat, The Bay, $895. Atlas

of the world Journal, The Papery. Korres Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizing & Brightening Cream, Shoppers Drug Mart, $44. Hunter rain boots, Rainbird Boutique, $159. E m e r a l d C i t y P a g e 1 7 Legacy Leather Duffle, Coach, $348. Nirvana Petite Emerald Ring, Swarovski, $165. Emerald green croco stamped gold plated ladies watch by Raymond Weil, raymond-weil. com. Volpi 150 by Christian Louboutin, christianlouboutin.com. Emerald green malachite print chiffon strapless draped gown with high slit by Monigue Lhuiller, Fall 2013 collection, moniguelhuiller.com. Parrot, Homesense, $29.99. Nars duo eye shadow, Sephora, $34. Sephora Pantone Universe nail polish, Sephora, $8. Vespa LX 50 4V, vespausa.com, $3,399. Sunglasses by Bulgari, Bulgari.com. F a s hi o n F o r w a r d P a g e 2 0 - 2 5 Cynthia Rowley Spring 2013 collection, cynthiarowley.com. H e l l o n H ee l s P a g e 2 6 Rene Caovilla Spring/Summer 2013, renecaovilla.com. Twin k l e Twin k l e P a g e 2 8 Bangle with diamond fan motif on black lacquer, Tiffany & Co., tiffany.ca. Pendant with round tanzanite, Tiffany & Co., tiffany. ca. Earrings of Morganites, Tiffany & Co., tiffany.ca. Be a u t y r eM a r k s P a g e 3 4 Nars Blush Brush, narscosmetics.ca, $65. Nars Eye Shader Brush, narscosmetics.ca, $81. Nars Large Dome Eye Brush, narscosmetics.ca, $46.

Stila Stay All Day Foundation, Sephora, $50. Estee Lauder Double Wear, The Bay, $42.50. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Flawless Wear Concealer, The Bay, $26. P a g e 3 5 Bourjois Paris Intuitive Liner, Shoppers Drug Mart, $20. F a i r y T a l e C o u t u r e P a g e 3 9 Necklace, by Topshop, The Bay. Skirt by Oscar de la Renta, Bisou Bridal. P a g e 4 0 Earrings by Alex Fraga, The Bay. Necklace by Expression & Topshop, The Bay. Gown by Carlie Wong, custom design, carliewong.com. P a g e 4 1 Gown by Patrick Zhan, custom design, patrickzhan.com. P a g e 4 2 Cape dress by Josephine Li, custom design. Necklace by Carolee Lux, carolee.com. Bracelet by T. Tahari, The Bay. P a g e 4 3 Gown by Carlie Wong, custom design, carliewong.com.

F a ce i t ! P a g e 6 8 Marcelle BB Cream, available at drugstores nationwide, $22.95. Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation, available at drugstores nationwide, $12.99. P a g e 6 9 Ardell Lashes, available at drugstores nationwide, $5.99.

Maybelline Great Lash, available at drugstores nationwide, $7.99. NYX Matte Lipstick, available at drugstores nationwide, $8.99. C l o u d N I N E P a g e 9 6 Carrie Bangles, Stella & Dot, StellaDot.com/TatianaRobertson, $64. Renegade Cluster Bracelet in gold, Stella & Dot, StellaDot.com/ TatianaRobertson, $64. Christina Link Bracelet, Stella & Dot, StellaDot.com/ TatianaRobertson, $54. Maya Pendant in turquoise, Stella & Dot, StellaDot. com/TatianaRobertson, $42. Demi Layering Necklace in gold, Stella & Dot, StellaDot.com/TatianaRobertson, $74. r e t a i l t he r a p y p a g e 9 4 Rings of pink and white diamond in platinum, Tiffany & Co., tiffany.ca.

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Join the NICHE Retail Therapy Network NICHE magazine wants to bring new customers into your boutique, showroom or retail shop, and provide you with a value-added giveaway for loyal clients.

Six times a year, the NICHE distribution team will hand deliver magazines to your business location. Give them away to your customers, free of charge!

Not only do we include your business name, address and specialty to our online Distribution List (when a shopper is looking for a magazine location), but we also add your business information to our online Retail Therapy Directory – providing added exposure to your business free of charge and driving more customers to your business.

To join NICHE magazine’s Retail Therapy Network, enrol online at NICHEmagazine.ca/rt. Offered as a free service, for a limited time only!

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N I C H E inside

That it will never come again is what makes life sweet.

- E m i ly D i c k i n s o n

NIN E

To commemorate the Inspiration Issue, NICHE wanted to do something special.

You know‌ that once-in-a-lifetime kind of special. This recipe called for a pinch of ingenuity, a cup of imagination, a bushel of collaboration and more than 400 macarons!

Enjoy this Sweet Inspiration 96

inspiration 2013

Shoot producer: Le i a V i k [ NI C H E m a g a z i n e ]

Photographer: Kelsey Goodwin [ KGOODPHOTO ]

Model: A s h l e y [Edge Models]

Hair: Ya s m i n M o r r i s [Fish Hair Salon]

MUA: A l i s a S h e b i b [Fish Hair Salon]

Jewellery: S t e l l a a n d D o t [independent stylist Tat i a n a R o b e r t s o n ]

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