ISSUE 21 ÂŁ2.95 WHERE SOLD www.stylebirmingham.com
HUGO BOSS UK LTD. Phone +44 (0) 207 5545700 www.hugoboss.com BOSS 0371/S BOSS Black
BOSS Store Upper Mall East Bullring Birmingham B5 4BF Phone: 0121 632 5436 BOSS Store 52-56 Wharf Side Street Mail Box Birmingham B1 1XL Phone: 0121 632 6010
“Move out of your comfort zone each season, learn new things and challenge your senses” Christopher Kane
CONTENTS
STYLE
IN
issue twenty one
SPRING
StyleWITH
StyleBEAUTY
7 GREAT BRITISH LABELS
37 BEAUTY NEWS it’s all about lightweight new colours and fresh fragrance
the story of Jaeger
38 SPRING CLEAN
13 STYLE EXPERT
restore radiance with these super-fine cleansers and
spring trends in store at Bullring
buffers
41 SPRING SCENTS
14 CELEBRITY STYLE
start spring with a burst of beautiful new fragrance
steal red carpet looks at bargain prices
16 FIVE MINUTES WITH...
StyleMEN
Leighton Denny, nail stylist to the stars
43 STYLE NEWS 19 MY STYLE SECRETS
from smart suits to checked shirts, this is your seven-day style guide
Rose Brown, owner of Pure Halal Beauty in Pavilions
44 TREND REPORT: STRIPES
20 RETAIL BIRMINGHAM AWARDS
adding a cool stripe to your casualwear is on-trend
the winners, the party, the glamour!
47 GROOMING sharp new spring scent meets the perfect self-tan
StyleWOMEN
48 GADGET REVIEW fancy some new technology? Of course you do...
23 FASHION NEWS new season trends and plenty of ideas for your
StyleSOCIAL
shopping list
52 GLOBAL PARTY
24 JEAN GENIE timeless denim is top of the fashion tree with a 70s revival
57 REVIEW
27 TREND REPORT
why not dine out this weekend? Read our reviews first...
classic vanilla, tan and gold are going stellar for spring
63 FOOD AND DRINK NEWS all you need for foodie heaven this Easter
29 COLOUR POP accessories get a rainbow wash, in bold, bright shades
30 THE STYLE BIRMINGHAM SPRING EDIT we’ve defined the season’s hottest looks and coolest
66 WHAT’S ON AROUND BIRMINGHAM FOR EASTER your complete guide
70 COMPETITIONS your chance to win, win, win!
must-buys
Style Birmingham Magazine
see how the other half live
– Issue 21
Concept
Retail Birmingham Front cover courtesy of Jaeger
Publisher Publishing Ink Ltd Managing Director Andrew Riley Advertising Leah Edmunds, w: www.publishingink.co.uk email: info@publishingink.co.uk tel: 0121 631 6101 Editor Sarah Drew Jones Design Mark Sargent, Leo Goddard Contributors Jennifer Walker All information is correct at the time of going to press. Please note that prices for items are subject to change so may vary from those mentioned contact individual stores for definitive pricing information. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, without prior permission. We make every effort to ensure that firms and organisations mentioned are reputable, however, we can give no guarantee that they will fulfil their obligations in all circumstances. Contributors’ opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or of Publishing Ink Limited. Any material submitted is done so at the owner’s risk, and the company can take no responsibility for the safe storage or return of such material.
© Publishing Ink 2011
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style birmingham
Retail BIRMINGHAM
Debenhams
WE’RE 21! We don’t normally need a reason to celebrate, and will happily crack open the Champagne and hand round the cake simply to mark a Tuesday afternoon, new pair of shoes, or successful morning’s work. But, luckily, we really DO have a good reason to put out the bunting this month: you’re reading Style Birmingham magazine’s 21st issue and that’s a licence to celebrate if ever we heard one! Twenty-one issues of fashion, style, beauty, celebrities, competitions and the inside track on where’s good to shop, dine, drink and party in Birmingham. We’ve brought you exclusive interviews, reports from front row at London Fashion Week, designer shopping sprees and plenty of ideas on everything from stealing stars’ looks to giving your home a style-over. We hope you’ve enjoyed the ride as much as we have... but we’ve got much more to come. This birthday issue is packed with new season fashion. We’ve searched the runways for the most wearable looks, and chosen the top trends to make your spring shopping list an easy task. Turn to page 30 for our definitive spring edit, or work your way through the fashion section for the scoop on every trend from glamazon 70s to colour blocking. Elsewhere, we’ve got your spring break covered. With Easter right around the corner, turn to our food and drink pages for some delicious recipes, classic wines and reviews of the hottest restaurants for spring lunches and exciting nights out. Talking of nights out, it’s time we got back to our celebrating. If you’ve loved reading the last 21 issues as much as we’ve enjoyed putting them together for you, why not send us an email (info@publishingink.co.uk) and let us know your thoughts: what do you like to see in Style Birmingham, what would you love to see more of? We promise to read every email... once we’ve finished our birthday cake, that is. Happy Easter! Sarah Drew Jones www.stylebirmingham.com
issue twenty one 5
JAEGER.CO.UK/THEOLYMPIABAG
STYLE BIRMINGHAM EXCLUSIVE
BEST of
e a r- o ld As 127 y ks ger shoc la b e l Ja e n w o rl d th e fa s h io u p fo r b y g o in g d ru m o u re s a le a t a ri c e ta g , ÂŁ100m p m in g h a m S ty le B ir e h is to ry tr a c k s th o n ic o f th is ic ra n d B ri ti s h b
www.stylebirmingham.com
issue twenty one 7
aeger was the highlight of London Fashion Week in February, showcasing a triumphant autumn/ winter collection bursting with quintessentially British touches: herringbone tweed, Prince of Wales checks, military green and navy and capes inspired by the glory days of the Empire.
Jumpsuit £299, cropped jacket £230 and necklace £85
With a packed front row – including Jameela Jamil, Olivia Palermo and every fashion editor worth her Louboutins – the Jaeger London show captured the hearts of the audience and was widely reviewed as one of the star events of LFW, thanks to the vision of design director Stuart Stockdale.
Each collection is designed by Jaeger’s talented team of in-house designers who fuse fashionforward trend-driven ideas with archive-inspired pieces. Trends aside, above all Jaeger is famous for its coats, tailoring, and knitwear woven in fine wools, cashmere, camel hair, silk and angora. Jaeger’s heritage, though, remains important to the look of each collection, right to 2011. That’s why the collections continue to incorporate traditional fabrics such as pinstripe, herringbone, houndstooth, tweed and plaid.
But behind the show-stopping fashion, glitz and glamour, there was surprising news: after more than 127 years in British hands, this legendary label is looking for a new owner. Assessors have been called in by current owner Harold Tillman, a well-respected figure in fashion and chair of
the British Fashion Council, the body that runs LFW. City experts have estimated the value of the company at a staggering £100 million: but who will step in and buy remains the subject of speculation.
Waistcoat £125, jacket £380
8
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By the 1930s Jaeger had become a highly prestigious luxury brand, and its iconic, innovative fashion made it the first retailer to independently trade within Selfridges. Staying true to its DNA, the brand continued to explore new ideas, such as spearheading the use of new washable fabrics in the 1950s. Its status has enticed some of the world’s most celebrated stars: Jaeger fans include Cary Grant and Marilyn Monroe and more recently, Madonna, Kate Moss, Claudia Schiffer, Victoria Beckham and Kylie Minogue.
It’s a mark of how far the brand has come since its humble beginnings in 1884. Jaeger’s story from day one is British to its core. Established by accountant Lewis Tomalin, whose son and grandson both succeeded him as chairman, the house takes its name from Dr Gustav Jaeger, a professor of zoology and physiology, who pioneered the benefits of animal hair in clothing. The Jaeger name quickly became synonymous with quality fabrics, specifically wool – Jaeger famously kitted out the Antarctic expeditions of Ernest Shackleton and Captain Robert Scott in 1907 and 1910, and introduced camel hair to Britain in 1908 (paving the way for the camel coat for which the brand would later become famous).
If you want to spot a Jaeger piece, look for the quality of the fabrics and for mesmerising prints too, namely polka dots, zigzag stripes, animal prints and graphic florals. Other design signatures revolve around a black, ivory and navy colour palette, made modern each season with vivid highlight colours: for spring/summer this year, yellow features in the collection. In 2004, Harold Tillman, fashion entrepreneur and retail visionary acquired Jaeger with one clear aim: to reinvigorate the brand and bring the Jaeger name to a whole new generation of fashionistas. His first move was the appointment of Belinda Earl, who had previously led Debenhams to great success as its group chief executive. Belinda set about breathing new life into Jaeger, by creating two new labels: Jaeger London and Boutique by Jaeger. Jaeger London launched in 2005 with high profile campaigns featuring supermodel Erin O’Connor. Orders for the collection doubled within the first year, leading to the addition of a menswear range in 2006, this time with a campaign starring Fenton Bailey, son of iconic photographer David Bailey. Jaeger London’s cool credentials were set from there, and the label now has a reputation for featuring the hottest, newest models,
NEWON S SEA YLE ST
Blouse £180, silk shorts £160, shoes £260, bag £360 and belt £85, all Jaeger spring/summer collection
www.stylebirmingham.com
issue twenty one 9
Keyhole dres
s £260
including Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Lara Stone (who married David Walliams last year). Around this time, Jaeger began to step up its transformation. The uber-exclusive Jaeger Black women’s wear collection launched, comprising a limited number of exquisite pieces, inspired by the skilful craftsmanship of couture. Jaeger Online followed, then the brand thrilled fashion editors everywhere by unveiling its first accessory range including shoes, sunglasses and handbags, which helped establish Jaeger across the globe as a Brit brand to rival Burberry. Shirt £75, chino shorts £75 and duffel £360
Celebrating this success, Tillman and Earl decided to let Jaeger loose on British Fashion Week. For a high street label – albeit a luxury one – this was a bold move but in 2008, for the first time in its history, the brand staged a catwalk show at the British Fashion Council tents. Jaeger London’s reputation as a covetable fashion brand was cemented. In 2009, Jaeger celebrated its landmark 125th anniversary. To commemorate, the brand delved into its rich archives to launch the 125 Limited Edition collection. The collection featured pieces inspired by original 60s Jaeger pieces, each one a Jaeger heirloom of the future. Jaeger also commissioned the book ‘Jaeger 125’. Written by fashion curators Amy de la Haye and Judith Clark from London College of Fashion, ‘Jaeger 125’ boasts a wealth of iconic archive material and documents Jaeger’s evolution from its origins as a producer of avant-garde knitwear to its current position as a global fashion name.
STYLE
EXCLUSIVE
Jaeger launched its first, exquisite Home collection in spring 2009. Using Jaeger archive patterns and prints, the home collection – now joined by a bath and body cosmetics range – means that Jaeger is now a lifestyle brand. This was expanded last year with the addition of Jaeger by Jaeger, featuring iconic pieces from Jaeger’s archive, classics such as wool coats but given a new fresh twist. As a nod to the past, the Jaeger by Jaeger logo incorporates Jaeger’s ‘straw’ logo, established in 1935, representing the heritage of noble fibres and fine yarns. Earlier this year, Jaeger opened a museum at its Old Bond Street headquarters, filling it with amazing pieces from the past 127 years. Classic trench coats, iconic quilted jackets, wool dresses, signature check: it’s all on display, making a link between Jaeger’s rich past and promising future. Whomever buys the brand this year will be investing in a slice of true British fashion royalty. • Find Jaeger in The Mailbox 10
style birmingham
99
Classic trench £3
Pinafore £199, sandals £260
CONTACT: +44 (0) 20 77 20 97 25 | UK@THOMASSABO.COM
AVAILABLE AT: BULLRING SHOPPING CENTRE SELFRIDGES AT BULLRING | HOUSE OF FRASER WWW.THOMASSABO.COM
VOTED RETAIL BIRMINGHAM’S WOMENSWEAR RETAILER OF THE YEAR 2011
StyleEXPERT
Silk blo us Whistle e £90 s, short s £120 D KNY, leather sandals £95 To pshop
STYLE
expert Emma Roberts, PR manager at Bullring and editor of the Browse: Bullring website, takes a look at her favourite trend for S/S ‘11 inspired platform heels (from Zara) and a silk vest.
Dazzling brights and powerful colour clashes adorned many catwalks during Fashion Week and it’s a trend that many of my favourite high street retailers have embraced too: Zara, Topshop and Reiss to name a few. And whether you’re ready to unleash a splash of colour into your wardrobe or wish to simply dip your toes in the sea of shades, the brights trend is one not to be missed.
Blue is the micro-trend of the season. The catwalks and the high street have been awash with a sea of blue. Bold blues, delicate turquoises and pretty baby blues have begun to appear in some of the favourites, including Reiss and French Connection. Mac £35 Topshop, Head-to-toe blue silk vest £89 is definitely the Reiss, skinny best way to play trousers £39.9 9 Zara, sandals it, teaming up £79.99 Zara different shades to create a ‘blue-tiful’ look. As quite an uncomplicated trend it allows you to play with a wide array of textures and fabrics.
For me, fashion is all about having fun so begin with a blank canvas and start experimenting. A sea-green top works effortlessly with a grass-green skirt and creates a truly head-turning look. This look here is styled with a H&M sheer dress and a striking skater skirt from Zara. Team with a bold accessory, bright nails and lips for a colour blocking ensemble. But if you’re not feeling ready to fully embrace the colour blocking trend just yet then focus on one key piece. A striking block-colour dress or playsuit can become the staple piece with accessories key to adding to the look. Keep it simple and relaxed with a tan satchel and a pair of towering heels for a look that’ll see right through from spring until summer. Ladylike, elegantly glamorous and definitely a look that I’ll be embracing throughout the spring. The mac is a key transitional piece that’ll help ease you into the spring and ensure you’re prepared for the occasional April shower. I love Topshop’s plastic mac, as it can be styled in a number of ways. Capri pants are something that I’ve always been a bit unsure of but they look great teamed with a pair of Seventies-
www.stylebirmingham.com
The beauty of the brights trend is the effortless transition that it makes from the catwalk into your wardrobe. This is by far one of the easiest trends of late to embrace and for someone like me who tends to play it safe with neutral colours like black, grey and white, it makes a welcome entrance as I try to inject a fresh new feel in time for the new season. Treat every day like it’s Fashion Week this spring and immerse yourself in a colour palette as bright as a rainbow. • For more information on trends available at Bullring, click on www.browsebullring.co.uk/ style
dress £29.99 Green satin skater skirt H&M, cotton , necklace £25.99 Zara o £22.90 Mang
e Yellow crep dress £152 French n, Connectio als leather sand la, £140 Carve bag £195 Radley
Photographer: Diana Gomez Stylist: Polly Banks
This spring one trend is set to rise above all the others: colour is back, the bolder and brighter the better…
issue twenty one 13
EMMA WILLIS
StyleEXPERT
Star STYLE
SARAH HARDING PARIS HILTON
PETRA NEMCOVA
MENA SUVARI
JENNY MCCARTHY
NICKY HILTON
GABRIELLE UNION
The stars celebrate spring by raising their hemlines and flashing those A-list pins
14
style birmingham
StyleEXPERT
Wrap dress, £48, Topshop Carara silk dress, £97, French Connection Per Una Speziale sequin dress, £150, Marks & Spencer
M IN I R E V O L U T IO N
Striped dress, £29.99, H&M
Diane von Furstenberg dress, £315, Harvey Nichols
www.stylebirmingham.com
Pleated dress, £130, Pied A Terre at House of Fraser Teal dress with embellishment, £150, Monsoon
issue twenty one 15
StyleEXPERT
five minutes with...
LEIGHTON DENNY As celeb nail stylist Leighton Denny opens his own nail bar in Selfridges, J e n n i f e r Wa l k e r m e e t s t h e c r e a t o r of the world’s most expensive m a n i c u r e t o t a l k c o o l s h ad e s , h o t stars and more I haven’t always been a nail expert. Firstly, I trained as a massage therapist. I did a night school course in aromatherapy massage which led me into the beauty arena, learning about essential oils and aromatherapy. The first beauty-related job that I had was as a beauty therapist on the cruise ships. I found it very difficult at first as women had issues about me doing their beauty treatments; they wanted other women to do it. I was finding it very hard to get a client list, and one day I was asked if I minded going into the nail salon. I was a little bit apprehensive at first as I didn’t really want to do nails, but it’s the best thing that could have ever happened to me. The rest, as they say, is history! I used to be a forklift truck driver, and I worked for a manufacturing plant that made nail varnish remover – no connection whatsoever! I actually used to move crates of nail varnish remover, so I think I was destined! I launched a self-tanning range last week, called Sun Believable, so that’s really exciting. I’m completely anaemic, so I go a nice shade of salmon when I go on holiday. I’ve always been searching for the right selftan and have never found it, so I’ve created my own. It’s organic, odourless and activates in four hours. I think I’ve taken my nails as far as I can go – bearing in mind, 11 countries, and over 300 salons in England – I’ve taken a back-track again and I’m looking into other areas because I’ve got the know-how and I know what the public wants, so I’m looking at developing some other stuff in the future. I’m also promoting my new range of nail 16
style birmingham
varnishes in Selfridges. They’re all ice-cream inspired names like Ice to Meet You, Berry Nice, and Inside Scoop. I’ve worked with lots of celebrities in my time. I worked on the Spice Girls tour, which I’m quite well known for. I did Geri Halliwell for the Elle Style Awards – she went for the new Ice To Meet You to go with her lovely tan. I’ve worked with Kim Cattrall, Patsy Kensit, Shirley Bassey, Penelope Cruz, Myleene Klass. I have some clients who I see ad hoc, and I have some clients like Myleene who have been with me for a long time. I’ve done Myleene’s nails for ten years, Dita Von Tesse’s for seven years, Geri Halliwell for eight years. But people like Victoria Beckham you see whenever; she doesn’t have a regular appointment. I’d love to get my hands on Madonna’s nails. Like a Virgin was the first record I ever bought – it’s no wonder my life has turned out the way it has!
StyleEXPERT
I love Victoria Beckham’s style. Her fashion’s aspirational but gorgeous, and she’s being taken seriously in the fashion world now. Geri Halliwell looks great at the moment. I saw her yesterday and asked for her secret and she said ‘I’m relaxed’. I admire anyone who has their own style. I respect everybody for putting their own stamp on whatever they do.
“
I’m also on Facebook and Twitter if anyone wants a personal consultation. I do them all myself. I don’t get chance to be in the salon much anymore, and I miss it. I call it my virtual salon because it means I keep in touch with the customer and know what questions are regularly being asked; so when I’m updating my instructions on my packaging, I include that information on there. It’s a way for me to really give my customers what they want, and I just like that little personal touch.
I respect everybody for putting their own stamp on whatever they do
The most common mistake that women make with their nails is they don’t do anything. I meet people and they say their nails are terrible, and when I ask them what they do to them, they say ‘nothing’. I say, ‘can you imagine what your face would look like if you didn’t do anything? Imagine what your eyebrows would look like if you never plucked them?’ With a little bit of TLC your nails and hands can look fabulous. We do free consultations at Leighton Denny, Selfridges – you don’t need to pay, just come in and ask for advice. They’ll probably do one nail for you and show you how to use the tools at home. Also, for men as well – don’t think that ladies don’t notice your nails because they do. I have three treatment regimes within the Leighton Denny range: there’s BioBuild which is for weak, thin nails; Hydraflex which is for hard nails which need to be made more flexible; and Brilliance which is for yellow stained nails. So come www.stylebirmingham.com
“
it’s alright to match it to an outfit or have it on your little fingers or maybe your toes so that you can cover it up when it’s not suitable but, palm trees and dolphins jumping through hoops and things hanging off them is taking it a bit too far for me. I’m really into block colours. I like a funky French, maybe with a contrasting tip. That’s as far as I think you should take it really. People shouldn’t see your nails before they see you.
From top: Lollipop, Do Me A Flavour, Ice To Meet You, Inside Scoop, Sundae Girl
The ‘street art’ nails that people like Rihanna and Cheryl Cole are wearing at the moment, in my opinion, are a step too far. I think there’s a market for it, but it’s not my style. I launched nail art 11 years ago; I had eight pages in Marie Claire, two pages in Vogue, and four pages in Harper’s and Queen, all in the same month. In 2005, I created the most expensive manicure in the world called the Diamond, Sapphire and Ruby Encapsulisation – it cost £16,500. I like style, I like glamour and I think
in to a Leighton Denny Salon for a free consultation and then, just like skincare, we do the right product selection for your nail type. There’s not one treatment for everyone, it all depends on your nail type.
I’m really looking forward to Spring/ Summer 2011. We have the Gelato Collection, the ice-cream based colours. We’ve got two camps, the nude camp which is all different grey colours coming through, that’s still very much on trend, but then we’ve got the neons coming through which I think is always beautiful because there’s nothing better than to shake off a horrible winter by banging a bit of colour into your day. People must remember that you need to look into a mirror to see your make-up and your hair whereas your nails are on display all the time so if they look grubby and a bit drab, people notice. If your nails are groomed, it doesn’t matter if you’ve got a t-shirt and a pair of old leggings on, you’re going to feel that little bit of glamour. The Gelato range has some nice bright colours like Sundae Girl, Lollipop and Berry Nice. We’ve got three words we always use within my brand which are expert, professional, but most of glamorous. Without the glamour, I don’t think ladies are interested. Look at all the celebrities; you never see them without their nails done. For the last two years I’ve been involved with a charity called Jeans for Genes. It’s a fantastic charity, raising money for children with genetic disorders. I actually collect designer jeans, a bit like our VB! [Victoria Beckham].I had more than
200 pairs of designer jeans that I’d collected over the years. Elle Style approached me for a feature on me and my jeans, and then Jeans for Genes got in touch and asked if I would be interested in becoming an ambassador for the charity. I’m having meetings now about doing something special for their Jeans for Genes Day in October – there’s more information on www.leightondenny.com. I love working with Jeans for Genes because it gives a little bit back, and it’s interesting and different. A lot of things happen by accident. You can plan something to death and it goes all wrong and then all these accidents just seem to fall into place. I’m a true believer in the saying ‘if it’s meant to be...’. The Leighton Denny Nail Bar is now open at Selfridges, Birmingham. To book an appointment call 0870 837 7377. The new Gelato range launches April 1, priced from £11. Treatments are priced from £5. issue twenty one 17
StyleEXPERT
Rose Brown, owner of Pure Halal Beauty in Pavilions, opens her style and beauty diary for us To me it’s very important to use crueltyfree products because I’m a vegetarian. Unfortunately, they’re hard to find as most mainstream products are made using animal extracts and derivatives and are tested on animals, even though it’s clear there is no need to. Especially in make-up, often animal fats and oils are used to make things like lipstick. This is a deal-breaker for me. My shop, Pure Halal Beauty, is all about providing people with fantastic beauty products that don’t conflict with their personal beliefs or ethical values. Our products are less harsh to skin and more ethically made than many traditional beauty products. I choose products that have all natural minerals and plant extracts rather than chemicals and animal ingredients. They’re also fantastic for sensitive and problematic skin. The UK’s lagging behind on this issue. Halal beauty products have actually been around for some time in other countries around the world, where there are large markets for halal products. I first came across halal certified products when I was searching for cosmetics that didn’t contain any animal ingredients. I found that you could get all sorts of products - not just make-up - that were guaranteed to be animal- and alcohol-free. That gave me the idea to create somewhere where you could come for all your halal certified essentials and toiletries. My make-up bag always has a selection of favourites. I can’t be without Fair+Spotless Luxe Creme from One Pure, a lovely brightening moisturiser from our Luxury Range. It makes my skin feel soft and hydrated, and is the perfect makeup base so no need for primers! I also swear by Samina’s Pure Cover Foundation, a fantastic mineral foundation that takes two seconds to apply and gives you a flawless, even complexion. It’s great for the days when your skin’s looking dull, pale and uneven.
Safi Rania Gold Night Moisturiser £8.99
www.stylebirmingham.com
secrets MY STYLE
Inika Puff Pot in Pink Pinch is my fave naturallooking pink blusher, and Samina Pure Cover Eyeliner is one of the best, most intense eyeliners I’ve come across and it lasts forever! Lastly, I always make sure I have my eyelash curlers with me wherever I go.
help and support so usually even if I have forgotten something they remind me, which I’m very grateful for.
In Birmingham I love shops like H&M and Primark that really let you keep up to date with the latest trends for less. I think it’s good to be versatile with fashion so I like to try different styles. And I’m lucky because I have three sisters and a mum who all have fantastic taste so usually I get away with borrowing things from them!
My golden rules of beauty are, firstly, find out the colours that suit your complexion and stick to those. My mum gave me this tip at a young age, and it applies with both beauty and fashion. If you use shades that compliment your skin tone and colouring then it’s hard to go far wrong. Also, take care of your skin from a young age, as it will thank you for it later in life. Try to use more natural products known for their skin benefits. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your make-up. There’s nothing worse than being stuck in a beauty rut, and trying different things may help you discover new ways of looking fantastic!
I’m quite a simple soul and I enjoy having the freedom to do things at my own pace when I have time off. My ideal day off would probably start at around midday and then be spent relaxing with my best friends, maybe cooking some nice food. And then a nice relaxing bath and a bit of pampering before snuggling up with my partner and a good film!
Five words that describe me? Friendly, enthusiastic, patient, dreamer... oh, and forgetful!
I don’t have style icons but I love the classic looks of Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. I also think Taylor Swift, the Kardashian sisters and Diane Kruger always look beautiful.. I’m naturally a very go-with-the-flow person. But I’ve discovered that this doesn’t lend itself to business very well so I’ve had to become more of a list-maker and get organised, which doesn’t come naturally to me! I have fantastic people around me who give me tons of
Samina Mineral Eye Shadow £7.99 each
issue twenty one 19
StyleEXPERT
We all know that Birmingham is the capital when it comes to shopping and, last month, the fantastic retailers that help make the city great were awarded for their efforts
Stylish stores at the
Pam Cheema and Kate Lawler
Retail Birmingham Awards 2011 The star-studded Retail Birmingham Awards, saw the city’s top retailers and fashionistas enjoy a night of glitz and glamour at Birmingham’s Town Hall.
20
SO, HERE’S WHO CAME OUT ON TOP: Shopping Destination of the Year: BULLRING Department Store of the Year: SELFRIDGES Fashion Retailer of the Year (Womenswear): HARVEY NICHOLS
Hosted by the gorgeous BBC Midlands Today presenter Suzanne Virdee, a total of 22 awards were given out, following a public vote on www. stylebirmingham.com, in which more than 40,000 people voted. The remaining award, for Outstanding Customer Service, was voted for by retailers.
Fashion Retailer of the Year (Menswear): ALL SAINTS
Award presenters included popstar Jamelia, Editor of Retail Week Tim Danaher, ITV Central’s Lucy Kite and BRMB’s Foxy and Guiliano. The night also heard the infamous voice of Redd Pepper, who has done movie trailers including Independence Day and Armageddon.
Café of the Year: STARBUCKS
style birmingham
New Retailer of the Year: FOREVER 21 Sportswear & Outdoor Retailer of the Year: JD SPORTS Children’s Retailer of the Year: NEXT Independent Retailer of the Year: AUTOGRAPH Jewellery & Accessories Retailer of the Year: ACCESSORIZE Footwear Retailer of the Year: CLARKS Beauty & Health Retailer of the Year: BOOTS Hair Salon of the Year: TONI & GUY Hotel of the Year: MALMAISON Bar of the Year: THE CHAMELEON Restaurant of the Year: CAFÉ ROUGE Food Retailer of the Year: MARKS & SPENCER Technology & Entertainment Retailer of the Year: APPLE Cards & Gifts Retailer of the Year: CLINTON CARDS Books, Magazines and News Retailer of the Year: WH SMITH Services Retailer of the Year: BARCLAYS Outstanding Customer Service: KAMRAN JHANGAR - SLATERS
In addition to the award presentations, the night also saw two stunning performances, starting with a dramatic opening from the winners of the 2008 BBC One show Last Choir Standing, Only Men Aloud! The 18-strong Welsh choir, whose second album ‘Band of Brothers’ reached Number One in the UK Classical Charts and went on to win the NS&I Album of the Year 2010 at the Classical BRIT Awards, also performed ‘Angels’ and ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade’. In addition to that, hit new girl band, Parade, also graced the stage to perform their debut single ‘Louder’, which currently features in the new Rimmel Glam’eyes TV advert. Organised by Retail Birmingham, the Business Improvement District for the city’s central shopping area, the awards were all about celebrating the retailers that make the city unique. For more gossip on the night, click onto www.stylebirmingham.com
StyleEXPERT
MAIN PICTURE: Pop singer, Jamelia RIGHT FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Winners of Best Department Store Selfridges Cllr Mike Whitby, Kevin Breese (Manager, Harvey Nichols) and Jonathan Cheetham (Chair, Retail Birmingham and Manager, The Pallasades) Retail Birmingham Winner of Fashion Bar of the Year, The Chameleon David Pardoe, The Mailbox with Emma Fox and Jo Green from S&X Media Only Men Aloud! at Retail Birmingham Awards 2011
www.stylebirmingham.com
issue twenty one 21
Rocha John Rocha at Debenhams
This month we’re
The gloriously British spring collection from Aquascutum in The Mailbox... the rock ‘n roll of the new Markus Lupfer t-shirts in Harvey Nichols, with Breton stripes and gold embellishment... choosing from the hundreds of Mother’s Day ideas in Pavilions, at Laura Ashley, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs and Wysteria Lane... collecting charms for our bracelets at Thomas Sabo in Bullring...investing in a DKNY spring tote in block colours at House of Fraser 22
style birmingham
Fashion NEWS Spring must-haves, from everyday pumps to statement handbags
WORK IT When jumpsuits were a huge fashion hit last year, we knew it was only a matter of time before the humble dungarees enjoyed a renaissance. This spring, with the 1970s trending big on the runways, dungarees are back on the high street. Forget baggy denim numbers though, and think fitted, fabric and really rather elegant. Team with towering heels and minimal accessories: Kate spotty dungarees £44.99, and bow platforms £69.99, both River Island.
SPRING COLOUR
MUST-HAVE Last winter’s cape trend has evolved into eveningwear for the lighter nights. A lightweight cape works as well with a bandage dress as skinny Houlihans: we’ve fallen in love with this delicate sequin cape, £45 at Dorothy Perkins.
Now that spring’s arrived, you might be in the mood to throw off your grey and black winter staples and slice a little colour into your life. The new spring palette is heavily influenced by traditional feminine colours: rose pink, raspberry, blush and hot coral, all mixed in with vintage florals, another key trend for spring/summer. H&M is where you’ll find a spot-on selection of gauzy maxis and floral pattern dresses and jackets, from £34.99.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
BEAUTIFUL BAGS Cream sunglasses, £4.99, New Look
The new NW3 collection from Hobbs has channelled the ladylike trend straight from the catwalk. Echoing the new bag collection by Victoria Beckham – all exquisite grain leather, chunky handles and structured shapes – the new spring bags now in-store at Hobbs in Pavilions are ones you’ll want to keep for years to come. Greenham £149, Howden in green £179, and Baystone in navy £139.
STYLE LOVES Mulberry bangle, £199, Harvey Nichols
www.stylebirmingham.com
Snakeskin heels, £185, LK Bennett in The Mailbox
These chic and sleek neutral pumps, £55 from Dune, are a perfect fit for this season’s Black Swan-inspired ballet trend.
issue twenty one 23
StyleWOMEN
JEAN
GENIE With a sexy 70s twist, denim is super-hot for spring and summer. Time to get into the blues Bag with leather trim, £35, Marks & Spencer
Cropped jacket, £42, Topshop
Denim tied shirt £19.99, buttonup skirt with belt £21.99, sunglasses £7.99, sandals £7.99, all New Look Sunnies, £16, Accessorize
Turquoise ring, £12.50, Wallis
Marc by Marc Jacobs charm bracelet, £70, Harvey Nichols Skirt, £42, Monsoon 24
style birmingham
Flared jeans, £45, River Island
T-bar sandals, £40, Dorothy Perkins
Dress, £20, Peacocks
E E FR Y R T EN The secret of happy ever after revealed at the Birmingham Mal. DESIGNER BRIDAL SHOW ON THE 8TH MAY FROM 11-4PM. Mal life. Happy ever after has a joyous start. It’s all about you, the big day and effortless styling at the Mal. Join us for our Designer Bridal Show on May 8th, a tour of the hotel and a fashion show featuring the very latest bridal wear. Also a whole host of our favourite suppliers showcasing everything from cakes to flowers. As an added incentive come along on the day for a chance to win 10 free places on your hen night and all bookings made by May 22nd 2011 will receive a complimentary nights stay in a suite. Go on we dare you. That’s Mal life.
For more information call in or call
0121 246 5000
or email events.birmingham@malmaison.com
hotels that dare to be different
For best rates GUARANTEED visit malmaison.com
StyleWOMEN
IN
NEUTRAL Classic vanilla, tan and gold are going stellar for spring, in grown-up glamour and investment dressing
Jacket, £99.99, H&M
Gold cuff, £12, Topshop
Elie Tahari
URES T X E HT H RIC SEY T I W Y R FUSS K AND JE N U S LINE E, SIL KEEP OF SUED Autograph trench, £99, Marks & Spencer
Sass & Bide dress, £400, Harvey Nichols
Pritchard bag, £34.99, River Island
Jimmy Choo sandals, £495, Harvey Nichols
NW3 Elmcroft belt, £29, Hobbs
Tobacco suede jacket, £45, Next
www.stylebirmingham.com
issue twenty one 27
StyleWOMEN
Bead bracelet, £6, Accessorize
Metallic shopper, £18, Marks & Spencer
Agate necklace, £22.50, Wallis
Star by Julien MacDonald envelope clutch, £28, Debenhams Lela Rose S/S ‘11
COLOUR
POP
Wedges, £42, Dorothy Perkins
Bold, bright shades are hot for spring. Have fun with zesty colours, as accessories get a colour injection Ellis retro sunglasses, £12.99, River Island
Red snake print belt £22, Linea at House of Fraser www.stylebirmingham.com
Bangle set, £9.99, New Look issue twenty one 29
StyleWOMEN Colour block pleated silk dress £130, Pied A Terre for House of Fraser
Banjo satchel, £59.99, River Island
Anthea wedges, £69.99, River Island
Mulberry Tillie tote, £1,016, Harvey Nichols
THE
SPRING EDIT
From colour block to fresh florals, from clogs to satchels, all the new season trends are here, as Style Birmingham picks the must-haves of spring Edited by Sarah Drew Jones 30
style birmingham
NW3 butterfly jumpsuit, £159, Hobbs
Diamond heels, £55, Faith at Debenhams
StyleWOMEN
Swimsuit, £35, Debenhams
Sancho suede jacket, £190, French Connection
Soft cord chinos, £28, Next
Cage peep-toe wedges, £55, M&S
Chloe seashell sunglasses, £195, Harvey Nichols
Rope wedges, £14, Primark
Midi skirt, £45, Monsoon
Autograph floral prom dress, £55, Marks & Spencer
Mini skirt, £99, Ted Baker in Selfridges www.stylebirmingham.com
Drawstring detail jacket, £90, Laura Ashley in Pavilions
Pink dress, £160, House of Fraser issue twenty one 31
StyleWOMEN
32
Basket weave bag, £46, Laura Ashley in Pavilions
Dress, £34.99, H&M
Oriental pussy bow tunic £95 and bootleg jeans £45, both Monsoon
Chunky bead necklace, £12, Next
Skinny combats, £22, Peacocks
Silk print scarf, £50, by Mary Katrantzou For Topshop
ToyWatch, £195, Harvey Nichols
Fuchsia bangle, £8.50, Wallis
style birmingham
Cutaway swimsuit, £14.99, H&M
Print dress, £69, COS
StyleWOMEN
Silk playsuit, £34, Miss Selfridge
Drop earrings, £18, French Connection
Crossbody bag, £18, Dorothy Perkins www.stylebirmingham.com
Coated cotton jacket, £129, COS
Ring by Biba, £50, House of Fraser
Butterfly tunic, £32, Dorothy Perkins
Leather arm trench, £135, Topshop
Leather sandal, £79, COS
Owl necklace, £10, Miss Selfridge
issue twenty one 33
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StyleWOMEN
SPRING
WEEKEND
Make the most of bank holiday season with these simple and chic new pieces Christian Dior oversized sunglasses £170, Harvey Nichols
Scarf, £25, Accessorize
Off white canvas tote £79, Ted Baker at House of Fraser
DKNY Be Delicious Juiced, £26.50, Boots
Print jacket, £28, Bhs Dress, £60, and jacket, £140, Monsoon
Necklace, £18, Laura Ashley in Pavilions
Kirsty Allsop scented candle, £12, Marks & Spencer
www.stylebirmingham.com
Red Herring glitter sandals, £35, Debenhams
Straw clutch £25, Dorothy Perkins
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River Island
This month we’re The crazy beauty of the new Wonder Woman collection from MAC, full of zany colours and collectable cartoon packaging, all inspired by the 70s crime-fighting heroine... the oodles of new-generation anti-ageing skincare that’s landed this spring, with new serums from Origins, Creme de la Mer, Bliss, Vichy, Clinique and more... the eagerly-awaited new sun protection range from St Tropez, with high SPFs and an aftersun with self-tanning ingredients, from Boots... the sexy new Sandstorm make-up collection from Topshop, with gorgeous metallic finishes
Beauty NEWS Spring colours, cutting-edge new skincare and more… CUTE COMPACT
GREAT GLOW Want Eva Longoria’s perfect skin? The new Dior Capture Totale Radiance Restoring Serum Foundation, £65, is the silkiest make-up that’s landed on the Style Birmingham beauty desk all year. Fans include Sharon Stone, Dita von Teese and Sienna Miller, who all love its creamy, light-diffusing radiance.
PIXI may not be on your radar yet but the make-up is well worth adding to your collection. Cutesy retro packaging, a mix of great colours and super-fine textures mean you’ll soon be addicted. We’ve fallen head over heels for the new PIXI Week of Makeup compact, £25 at Boots. With everything you need for a week’s worth of new looks, it’s a spring must-have.
STYLE LOVES Orly Mani Minis in ice-cream shades, just £5 at Boots.
RATE THE RANGE TWO TO TRY Two ground-breaking new serums have just launched, helping you to win the battle against ageing: Origins Plantscription Anti-aging serum, £45 at House of Fraser, showed in trials that it had up to 88 per cent of the wrinkle-reducing effects of a leading prescription wrinkle ingredient without any of the side-effects. Crème de la Mer The Radiant Serum, £215 at Harvey Nichols, is jam-packed with intense levels of the famous sea-derived ingredients and leaves skin looking like it’s been airbrushed to perfection.
Elizabeth Arden’s new Ceramide Ultra Lift and Firm Makeup collection marries skincare genius with classic colours, so your make-up works harder, delivering anti-ageing ingredients to your skin all day. Lip colour, foundation, concealer... they’re all designed to firm, plump and tone skin while giving you a pop of pure colour. Our faves? The Makeup, £30, has an SPF 15 and the Lipstick, £18 in a handy to remember 18 shades, feels comfortable on the lips without compromising on full, lasting colour.
HAIR TODAY Since it was revealed last year that Kate Moss is a big fan of dry shampoo for keeping her boho blonde locks in top bedhead condition, sales have skyrocketed. One of the best we’ve found for volumising is Fudge’s Dry Shampoo, £9.85 (salons: 01282 683100): spritz on whenever hair needs a pick-me up.
StyleBEAUTY
Dry or sensitive skin will love the buttery texture of Bobbi Brown EXTRA Balm Rinse, £39.50 (House of Fraser). Make-up vanishes with one sweep.
Fans of luxury will love the diamond powder in Crème de la Mer The Refining Facial £63. It gently polishes skin to reveal a new radiance.
FRESH
START
With an exfoliator to suit every skin type, Estee Lauder’s Soft Clean, Perfectly Clean and Sparkling Clean range, £26.50 each at Boots and Debenhams, will boost your look within a week.
New season, new chance to shine. Restore radiance with these super-fine cleansers and buffers
Melting Cleansing Gel £19.40 is the latest miracle-worker from skincare experts Elemis and leaves skin feeling soft and nourished. For Birmingham stockists and spas go to www. elemis.com
Gentle and perfect for everyday use NARS Balancing Foam Cleanser £25.50 melts away make-up and impurities. Find it at Harvey Nichols.
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The zesty fragrance of Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash £18.50 will put a spring in your step and a rosy flush in your cheeks. Boots and Harvey Nichols.
Build a good exfoliating scrub into your routine: three times a week will give you a glow. We love StriVectinSD Instant Retexturizing Scrub £37 at Harvey Nichols.
StyleBEAUTY
Versace Vanitas, £45 (from April) Exotic tiare flower melts into sensual cedar wood and tonka bean: great for day.
Manuel Canovas Pink Riviera, £70
Korres Peonia Vanilla Amber Pear, £24
Made in Italy Cortina, £78
Sleek, sexy and with a retro feel, this is a grown-up perfume for evening.
Vetiver is the top note of this scent and has echoes of beach holidays in the Med.
This scent just says ‘spring’, with fresh, fruity notes and a very feminine feel.
NEW SEASON
Jimmy Choo, £39
SCENT
The A-list luxury shoe label launches its gloriously glam first fragrance.
Start spring with a burst of beautiful new fragrance
Maison Martin Margiela, £45 This gorgeous woody green floral is the first from the fashion label loved by Victoria Beckham and Lady Gaga.
Space NK Laughter Nuit, £45 With notes of warm incense mixed with fresh grapefruit this is perfect for now.
www.stylebirmingham.com
Dsquared2 She Wood Golden Light Wood, £38 The perfect weekend scent: lively, modern and light.
All fragrances available at Harvey Nichols, except Maison Martin Margiela and Jimmy Choo, which are stocked in House of Fraser. Versace and Dsquared” also available at Selfridges.
issue twenty one 41
This month we’re The paisley scarves in Liam Gallagher’s Pretty Green collection at Selfridges... twisted denim jeans and mini spring peacoats at Gap... washed canvas overnight bags in edgy shades of khaki and tobacco from D&G at Harvey Nichols... silver cufflinks for a smart-as-the-Royal-wedding look at Gieves & Hawkes... trawling through the city’s department stores for this year’s hottest sunglasses brands - Prada, Tom Ford and Ray-Ban - for Easter weekend getaways
House of Fraser
MEN
Style NEWS From smart suits to checked shirts, this is your seven-day style guide
WELL-TAILORED It was only a matter of time, but Harvey Nichols has chosen 2011 to launch its first-ever own-label menswear collection. Featuring classic tailoring with a contemporary edge and using only the finest Italian fabrics, this brand new range mixes suits, shirts and ties, all in timeless colourways, so you can build a capsule work wardrobe that will last for years. This Harvey Nichols classic wool suit is £395, and shirt, £60.
TWO TO TRY Let the world know what you’re thinking (well, the bits fit to broadcast anyway): slogan tees from £14, Topman.
WEEKEND WEAR This time of year, you can switch from a winter coat to a summer shirt in a matter of hours. Whilst the weather stays variable, invest in a super-casual jacket for weekend wear, and throw it on over a tee and jeans. This hooded jacket, £39.99 at Republic, rocks the checked trend into the new season.
EDITOR’S PICK Chukka boots, £50, Next
MILITARY MAN The new spring collection from H&M has a strong military vibe. Don’t expect epaulettes and brass buttons though: this time around, the military trend has a relaxed, urban feel, with lots of khaki, grey and black mixing with work boots and multi-pocket motifs. Add a plain tee in a neutral colour and aviators and you’re good to go. The new collection is arriving in H&M throughout March.
www.stylebirmingham.com
Sunglasses, £15, M&S
Denim wash scarf, £65, Ralph Lauren at House of Fraser
issue twenty one 43
StyleMEN
Belt, £19.50, M&S Markus Lupfer striped T-shirt, £95, Harvey Nichols
Canvas duffel bag, £45, Mantaray at Debenhams
D N E R T
: T R O REP
PERRY ELLIS
ings ear br w l a u s our ca feel e to y p i r t gland s n l E o o w c ga lth Ne Addin h-wea t l a e t s
Paul Smith trousers, £275, Harvey Nichols
G Shock watch, £100, Harvey Nichols
Striped tee, £25, COS in Bullring
Brogue boots, £60, Next
BALANCE STRIPES WITH MUTED COLOURS AND EDGY ACCESSOR IES Scarf, £8.99, River Island
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FOR EVERY OCCASION Whether informal or indulgent, for pleasure or for business our range of dining experiences offers the freshest ingredients, beautifully prepared, and served in world-renowned surroundings. • Experience fine dining in The French Restaurant and Champagne in the Cocktail Bar • Create your ideal dish from the buffet-style carvery in The Atrium • Savour home cooked favourites at Sam’s Bar and Grill • Enjoy lighter, healthier snacks from The Café Bar • Sample the Belfry Blend, our very own blend of coffee served in the Belfry Bar • Join our exclusive Dine Club to receive discounts and invitations to our special event evenings To book your perfect dining experience call 01675 470301 or for more information visit www.TheBelfry.com The Belfry, Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B76 9PR
30/7/09 17:24:26
StyleMEN
REVIVE AND REFRESH Skin not looking its best after that long, hard winter? At this time of year, it can be tricky to banish those dry lines and under-eye circles. What you need is a hydration injection: Korres Borage Men’s Cream, £22 at Harvey Nichols, is moisture overload, so apply morning and evening for best effect. It disappears fast and has soothing aloe and antiseptic qualities, making it ideal for sensitive or tired skin.
GROOMING NEWS Sharp new spring fragrance meets the perfect self-tan
BEEN AWAY? Fastest way to drop five pounds, or even five years? Try a self-tanner that’s subtle enough to be more week-inBarbados than fell-asleep-on-a-sunbed. St Tropez Everyday Gradual tan for the Face, £14.50, is idiot-proof, too: simply smooth it on like a suncream after your shower and a natural light tan develops in a few hours. It’s available in Boots and most large department stores.
TWO TO TRY These two light spring fragrances will lift your look and instantly impress. Snap them up now: Versace Eau Fraiche, £49.50: Citrussy notes give this cologne a classic, sophisticated vibe. Dept stores. Dsquared2 He Wood Silver Wind Wood, £42.50: Brand new for spring, this has masculine notes of musk, cedar wood and amber. Harvey Nichols.
BE A PLAYER Ralph Lauren fans have taken the new Big Pony logo to their hearts this past year, leading to Polo shirts bearing the oversized version of Lauren’s signature Polo Player logo selling out all over the country. Now there’s a fragrance collection to match. The Big Pony line has four fragrances: Sport, Seduction, Adventure and Style, in bold shades, ranging from citrus notes of lime and grapefruit to woody kyarawood and mint. Find the collection in House of Fraser, priced at £35 each.
www.stylebirmingham.com
issue twenty one 47
StyleMEN
GADGETGEEK
New season gadgets for Easter treats
01
02
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04 01 CAFFEINE HIT Douwe Egberts’ Senseo coffee pod machines in association with Philips are big on style and low on work: your favourite coffee is whipped up while you wait. The newest machine in the range, The Quadrante, has sleek lines and edgy curves, and ca n make two coffee specialities in less than a minute. The machine is £100 from Argos. 02 PERFECT MUSIC The brand new UnitiQute, all-in-one compact, remote-controlled audio player from British audio manufacturer Naim Audio, £1,350, offers FM/internet/ DAB radio, MP3/iPod, streamed audio and USB connectivity. The UnitiQute can wirelessly stream music stored on IPnP networked devices (such as PCs, Sky boxes and games consoles) providing even more music functionality, and as well as the standard remote control, Naim also offer a dedicated remote controller app - n-Stream - so you can control all your music via your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. To find your nearest stockist, go to www.naimaudio.com/find-a-retailer 03 HAPPY ANDROID The Sony Ericsson X8 is now available exclusively to Virgin Media customers in a striking red and black colourway. With instant access to the Android Marketplace with more than 100,000 apps and Sony Ericsson’s integrated social networking system TimeScape that allows users to keep up to date with all of the their friends social interactions, the X8 is a great option for busy tweeters. Available from the Virgin Media store. 04 PHONE HOME The Binatone iHomePhone claims to be the world’s first Android powered home phone, comprising of a DECT digital cordless phone, internet browser, full colour touch screen and Android OS. Users can watch videos, look at photos, chat with friends, shop online and even read eBooks with this stylish device. It’s £99.99 available at Argos.
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StyleMEN
06
05
08
07
05 STEAM OFF Ironing may not be your favourite job, but it might seem a little less boring if your iron’s a style statement in itself. The Bosch Premier Power steam generator iron takes only two minutes to heat up and gives more than an hour’s ironing from one tank of water. Covered in a spring floral pattern, it’s also a change from the usual white plastic. £249.99 from electrical outlets: www.bosch-home.co.uk 06 MIX IT UP Kenwood is leading the way in the style stakes by launching a limited edition range of striped kMix Stand Mixers. Evoking memories of beach deck chairs and Neapolitan ice cream, the new five striped designs each come complete with a range of attachments including the iconic K-beater, balloon whisk and dough hook.Priced at £399 from department stores: 02392 392 333 or visit www.kenwoodworld.com/uk 07 MUSICAL TOAST There’s no better way to start the day than with a piece of toast and some wake-up music. Now, thanks to Breville’s new Radio Toaster, you can do both at the same time! With a built-in FM/AM radio with ten preset channels and a useful AUX-in socket so you can plug in your MP3 player, it also has two variable width bread slots, a removable crumb tray that ensures easy cleaning and also an illuminated digital display. Priced at £49.99 from Argos. 08 TAKE A SLICE Pizza lovers don’t need to order a takeaway any more, or put up with sub-standard frozen versions. Make your own with the nifty Pizza Maker, £39.50, at Marks & Spencer. A mini, compact oven, all you need is ingredients.
www.stylebirmingham.com
issue twenty one 49
ENJOY
BROAD STREET
LEISURE & LAUGHS | STAY & PLAY | DRINK & DINE
enhancing - connecting - developing
BROAD STREET
Live the life
Café Opera in Stockholm
StyleSOCIAL
GLOBAL PARTY
15-16 September
This month we’re
Entertaining the kids with our What’s On guide to Easter … making Malmaison’s delicious Comic Relief inspired cocktails … learning about wine and Champagne with Nuvo’s expert Chevalier … seeing how the other half live with a sneak peak inside The Global Party … enjoying the Spring sunshine with a walk and a drink along Broad Street
StyleSOCIAL
Marbella Club, Marbella
GLOBAL PARTY Around 100,000 of the world’s richest men and women will come together for 24 hours in September to be part of a history-making extravaganza
“
In September, a super-glamorous ‘global party’ will take place, aiming to break world records and raise millions for worthy causes at the same time. The guests, to include some of the world’s most influential and powerful people, will be attending the biggest, richest and most exclusive party ever. Along with the ambition of getting into the Guinness Book of Records, the main aim of this fantastic event is to raise money for 12 global charities. Around 80 of the world’s most prestigious locations will co-host this amazing party to raise both money and awareness for some amazing charities including ARK (Absolute Return for Kids), Blue Marine Foundation and The Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Together we can put something back, especially in these uncertain times style birmingham
“
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Confirmed locations include London, Brisbane, Istanbul, Hong Kong, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Stockholm.
Inspired by Around the World in 80 Days, the adventures of Phileas Fogg, the party aims to raise between £5 million and £10 million for the named charities, by bringing together the influences and reputations of some amazing people. The leading strategists behind this overwhelming event are the renowned hedge fund veteran Lord Stanley Fink and luxury lifestyle expert David Johnstone. David Johnstone said: “I think together we can put something back, especially in these uncertain times. There are 650,000 charities in the UK and to try and pick one, three or five is very difficult but I hope we have given a global aspect to what we are doing.” The main event will commence on Thursday 15 September and will continue on until Friday September 16, aiming to be the longest ever party at 24 hours. Each invitee will receive a limited edition Global Party Key-2 Luxury silver key ring giving them access to thousands of personal contacts and exclusive VIP privileges for life. Privileges include complimentary rounds of golf, beauty treatments and exclusive
StyleSOCIAL rates and upgrades in luxury hotels around the world, VIP entry and complimentary Champagne for key ring holders and their guests at a variety of fashionable clubs. Celebrity key ring holders currently include Daniel Craig, Eva Herzigova, Adrien Brody and Madonna, with this list expecting to grow after The Global Party 2011. These privileges can be taken advantage of in numerous esteemed locations around the world.
Excelsior Gra
nd Hotel, Mal
ta
Tickets are available to purchase by individuals from £1,450 per ticket (£2,900 per pair). Corporate tickets are also available, at £1,152 per person, when bought in the Corporate Charity Package of 26 tickets (13 pairs), valued at almost £30,000. This non-profit making charity event will donate 67 per cent of the ticket sales to the 12 charities. The remaining 33 per cent will cover costs. An average of three Corporate Charity Packages and 60 tickets will be available for each city, with the exception of London, which will have a higher allocation as it is expected to be the most popular with seven venues confirmed so far. Around 10,000 tickets will also be made available for purchase by the general public. Guests will have a choice of which party they attend and, for the first 1,500 tickets purchased, will be invited to the exclusive pre-party at the Natural History Museum, London on Thursday September 8.
erne Liquid, B
If you are thinking that this sounds like the party for you, check your bank account first, then download the application form at www. theglobalparty.com. The prices may sound steep but it does include all food, drink and entertainment, not forgetting the exclusive Key-2 Luxury key ring. Each venue owner will be the host of their part of this fantastic party, organising auctions and raffles to raise even more money for these charities.
blin
ue, Du
t Ven
righ The W
Infusion Lounge, San Francisco
The tagline for this prestigious event ‘Uniting the best locations and luxury brands in the world to raise millions for charities’ says it all.. Although the organisers want this event to be as successful as possible, with all of their guests leaving with smiles on their faces, the ultimate aim is to raise money for the charities. . 24 hours
Globalfacts
For further information on how to be a part of this record-breaking event, and for full details about each confirmed venue, visit www.theglobalparty.com. www.stylebirmingham.com
. . . . . .
15-16 September 40 countries 100,000 guests 80+ premium venues 12 global charities from £1,450 per ticket
Alloneword, Brisbane
issue twenty one
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StyleSOCIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
A new
dimension of apartments Birmingham’s iconic landmark, The Cube, has released a new phase of aspirational apartments for sale New to the market are 15 stunning properties, including sublime studios and spacious one and two bed apartments, designed to appeal to the most discerning of buyers, right in the heart of the lively city centre. The Cube is a vibrant new landmark destination that has transformed Birmingham’s skyline, creating a new dimension in commercial and residential design. Comprising exceptional apartments and offices, exclusive shops, water-side café bars, a boutique hotel and spa, Birmingham’s first panoramic rooftop and a state-of-the-art, fully automated car park, The Cube is an amazing building in an extraordinary location. With the breathtaking views across the designer neighbourhood, The Cube’s
residential units are designed to maximise living space with large picture windows, hidden sliding doors, and double heighted ceilings in all duplex apartments. Furthermore, impressive specification means that each apartment includes a designer kitchen by Poggenpohl, appliances by Bosch and bathroom fittings by Villeroy & Bosch and Grohe. Residents can also take advantage of the 24-hour concierge service. Animating Birmingham’s canal side, the building has been designed by worldrenowned architect Ken Shuttleworth. Inspired by the idea of an enchanting jewellery box, The Cube paves a new route through the city - an inclusive area, brimming with exciting gems such as the iconic national art installation, ‘The Lovely People’, commissioned by renowned local artist, Temper. Unlike many new residential projects, The Cube’s unique twisting geometry has allowed for a wide range of different residential designs. There are 244 apartments spread across nine floors ranging from highlevel, two-bedroom duplexes to small city ‘crash pads’. One half of the building contains
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buy-to-rent apartments with buy-to-live units in the remaining half. All apartments feature spacious living areas with large picture windows offering panoramic views across the city or out through the courtyard. The Cube director, Neil Edginton commented on the residential stage of the complex: “We’re thrilled to be opening up the first phase of new apartments. The Cube offers a truly unique way of living and now stands on the architectural world stage as a prestigious location to live. You don’t get many chances to buy into a scheme like The Cube and now is a really exciting time as the building continues to gain momentum and validate its place as a landmark destination in the city centre. More than half of the apartments are already sold and interest in the new phase is unsurprisingly strong.” Prices start from £115,000 for studio apartments, £140,000 for one bedroom apartments and £230,000 for two bedroom duplexes. For more information contact Sue Donaghy or Mark Evans at Knight Frank on 0121 200 2220 or visit www.thecube.co.uk.
private dining available for up to 40 guests
0121 643 8969 44 broad street | brindley place | birmingham | B1 2HP
www.celebrityrestaurant.co.uk
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8/9/10 10:37:41
EAT, DRINK AND BE METRO THIS CHRISTMAS.
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14/10/2010 10:49
StyleSOCIAL
Food REVIEW Style Birmingham soaks up some of the best in food and drink that the city centre has to offer
EDITED BY JENNIFER WALKER
CARLUCCIO’S, BRINDLEY PLACE
A new vision for
Spiceal Street If you think Birmingham is already a foodie heaven, you’re in for a treat: things are about to get a whole lot better. Plans are underway for a fabulous new dining destination called Spiceal Street at the Bullring. Approximately 20 eateries will be located within the complex, providing ample choice for the Birmingham diner. The glamorous Spiceal Street will bring a new dimension to the Bullring with great architecture to complement the spectacular St. Martin’s Church and the iconic Selfridges building. After the opening of Jamie’s Italian in November 2010 and the upcoming Spiceal Street complex, St. Martin’s Square looks set to be the place to see and be seen in Birmingham. During the 1700s, Spiceal Street was a hive of activity, well-known for its hospitality, grocery and meat trades creating a bustling atmosphere. The new 20,000 sq ft development will be set around St. Martin’s Square, adding to the already thriving hospitality trade in the city. Designed by Chapman Taylor, the striking architecture of the proposed development is to include a curved roof linking the retail units, formal and informal seating areas, and water feature. After being granted planning permission from Birmingham City Council in February 2011, work officially began in early March, expecting to take approximately nine months to complete. For further information and regular updates and images visit www.spicealstreet.co.uk.
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Born on the Amalfi Coast of Italy, Antonio Carluccio first came to England in 1975 trading as a wine merchant of Italian wines. Famous for his hobby of collecting wild mushrooms, he opened the first Carluccio’s Cafeè in Market Place, London in 1998. Opening in November 2010, the Brindley Place branch of Carluccio’s is the latest addition to the family. We received a very warm welcome as we entered the restaurant at 7pm on a very busy Friday night. Introduced to our attentive waitress, Kate, we ordered two glasses of wine, the Valpolicella red and the Silvium rosé, at £6.10 and £6.40 for large glasses. In terms of authenticity, Carluccio’s ticks all the boxes; the stylish yet homely interior and friendly, welcoming staff who, after five minutes, you feel as if you’ve known for years. The menu is nothing short of exquisite, with a sensible amount of succulent dishes to choose from. Unable to decide, we opted to share two starters - Insalata di Mozzarella (£5.50) – buffalo mozzarella with fresh tomatoes, focaccia and black olives, and Calamari Fritti (£5.95) – rings of deep-fried calamari served with lemon. Not particularly startereaters, we wanted to go for something light, and our choices were good. The calamari had a wonderfully light batter and the insalata was an attractive selection of Italian produce, just enough to leave you wanting more. With a perfectly timed gap between courses – there’s nothing worse than being brought your main while you’re still chewing your starter – we took the opportunity to have a look around. The non-fussy decor and the open-fronted kitchen – it’s always a good sign in a restaurant when no secrets are being kept from the diners! – go beautifully with the romantic ambiance of the restaurant. Our mains were brought over: Tortelloni di Cervo (£9.35) – handmade fresh tortelloni filled with wine-braised venison, and Orata con Salsa e Patate
(£12.25) – fillet of sea bream with tomato salsa and sautéed potatoes. The sea bream succulently melted in the mouth, accompanied by a tangy, yet sweet tomato salsa. The rich, buttery Tortelloni filled with tender venison, sprinkled with the obligatory grated parmesan made a light but filling meal. For dessert, we stuck with the Italian theme and opted for Tiramisu (£4.95) and, from the specials board, Panna Vanilla (£4.95) – a lemon and vanilla flavoured set cream with raspberry coulis and fresh raspberries. Rounding off the meal beautifully, the desserts provided a lasting taste of Italy. This lovely, relaxing restaurant in the heart of the trendy chic of Brindley Place provides everything you needs for a fantastic night out. Whether it’s a family dinner, a romantic rendezvous, the staff at Carluccio’s will make you feel like you’re the only guests in the room.
Carluccio’s The Water’s Edge, Brindley Place Birmingham, 0121 633 926
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Nuvo’s Champagne and wine expert is bringing exciting changes to the Brindleyplace bar. Style Birmingham’s Jennifer Walker talks fizz with the fabulous Iain Ross-Mackenzie
On the grapevine Iain Ross-Mackenzie, aka Gonzo, moved to Birmingham after working his magic on Ronnie Scott’s. As an expert Chevalier with a staggering knowledge of Champagnes and wines, he has big plans for Nuvo Bar in Brindleyplace.
“
I don’t believe in the old fashioned white wine with white meat or fish, I think that’s a little bit 80s
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I’ve been in the industry for about 20 years. Food and drink have always needed good synergy. We can all sell Chateau Margot and all the rest of it, but it’s the unknown, entry-point wines that are important. I got into the wine by accident really, through Champagne. Champagne is my true love. I’m a Chevalier, which is third in the hierarchy of the Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne. I take quite a simplistic approach to wine; I believe that a wine list should always be balanced. We’re a good quality, but accessible cocktail bar and lounge, so we need to keep our prices reasonable. Our wine list structure is changing and it’s going to be a lot more user-friendly. We’re not going to use words like buttery and robust; we’re going to use simpler words like full-bodied, light and daytime. People are becoming more sophisticated with their choice of wines; so with our new wine list, we’re
balancing between pricing, new world and old world, and the most popular at the moment like the Pinot Grigio. We’re also putting in a really nice red from Lebanon, Chateau Musar which is, pound for pound, as good as any £100 bottle of French red, but it will be less than half the price. In terms of Champagnes, the list is a little bit more extensive, because we all want to have a premium Champagne list. There are so many Champagnes that nobody’s been exposed to in this country because they don’t export. We are importing Premier Cru, Grande Cru, and they’ll be less than £60 a bottle. You’ll still be able to buy the ‘normal’ Champagnes in here like Veuve Clicquot, Laurent Perrier Rosé and Dom Perignon. We’re also doing several by the glass – so you’re not committing yourself to a £50 bottle, just a £7-8 glass of Champagne to try. That’s what wines and Champagnes are all about; it’s the experience and the experimentation. We’re also doing our own Champagne called Nuvo Noir, which is a blend of the Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir grapes, and that will be available to buy in March.
My favourite non-vintage Champagne is Taittinger; it ticks all the boxes. With vintage Champagnes, one of the best is Taittinger Comtes de Champagne, preferably 1996. People sometimes get confused when they look at the price of Champagne, for example when you get a bottle of Champagne that’s £250, it must be good. Well actually that isn’t necessarily true. It’s about value for money for me. My perfect food/wine combination is a good steak with a glass of Chateauneuf de Pape, preferably Telegraph 2003. I don’t believe in the old fashioned white wine with white meat or fish; I think that’s a little bit 80s. If I’m going to have something light to eat, I like a nice Pinot Noir. I think everything is about what you enjoy. If you have five glasses of wine in front of you and you love number three, if it happens to be £10 a bottle, should that matter? It’s about what you love. The first rule of wine is ‘do you like it?’ If you like it, learn about it. Then as you start to learn more and like more, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. It’s the same with Champagne. If you like it, drink it. Nuvo Bar, 2 Brunswick Place, Brindleyplace: 0121 631 1600.
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ON S I A MALM RELIEF C COMI KTAILS COC Red Nose Martini: INGREDIENTS . 35ml Vodka . 25ml Strawberry Liquor . Fraise syrup . 3-4 fresh strawberries METHOD Crush strawberries then combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker, shake and strain into a chilled martini glass
DO SOMETHING
Red Nose Shot: INGREDIENTS . 10ml Chambord . 10ml Fraise syrup . 10ml fresh cream METHOD Layer in a shot glass. Non alcoholic option is just virgin strawberry mojito.
Laura Moore, Joy Stefanicki, Liz Locke and Jamie Moss behind the bar at Malmaison
Some of the stars of The Apprentice 2010 were in Birmingham recently raising money for Comic Relief. The contestants, now embarking on their new careers, are using their new-found fame as a platform for raising awareness and money for great causes. Unleashed onto Birmingham to spend the day making Comic Relief inspired cocktails, the contestants learnt about the ingredients and methods behind the perfect drink. Joy Stefanicki, contestant and Birmingham girl, helped to organise the event by rounding up her troops of new friends, courtesy of the
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funny FOR MONEY hit BBC show. “I’ve always been a big fan of Comic Relief. I just thought it was a really good opportunity for us to get together and Do Something Funny for Money.” Six of the candidates spent the afternoon behind the bar of Malmaison learning the tricks of the trade from genius barman Jamie Moss, who taught them about the ingredients and method for their own individual Comic Relief inspired cocktails, which they went on to make for paying customers at Chameleon Bar on Hill Street, making more than £2,500. Chris Bates, Jamie Lester, Liz Locke and Laura Moore joined Joy Stefanicki in the city to raise money for Comic Relief. Chris Bates shared his thoughts and feelings on getting involved with the charity event. “Comic Relief
has always struck a chord with me. I remember watching Lenny Henry presenting the films of the people who receive the money, and thinking how tragic some of the stories were and realising what a great cause it was. Through The Apprentice, we’ve been given a really good platform to get involved in charity work. I see it as a responsibility on all of us to do something good with the opportunity we’ve been given.” With a yummy cocktail in one hand and a donation bucket in the other, the candidates described their experience of The Apprentice using words like “fascinating”, “profound” and “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”. “As part of the Apprentice team, we’ve been asked to do something funny for money; what we’re doing is something very funny for, hopefully, lots of money” says Jamie Lester. issue twenty one
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The finest Italian cuisine Located in the heart of Birmingham city centre, in the busy Bullring shopping centre, Del Villaggio Italian restaurant is the perfect place to relax after or during a busy day of retail therapy.
The chefs and waiting staff at Del Villaggio are always there to help, whether it’s with choosing the ideal wine to match your meal or just making your visit as enjoyable as possible. With an extensive menu of fine Italian dishes, all of Del Villaggio’s produce is sourced from local farmers and authentic Italian suppliers. They are passionate about serving only the finest meats, poultry and fish providing a genuine taste of Italy in Birmingham. There’s a phrase the Italians love: ‘Una cena senza vino e come un giorno senza sole’, meaning ‘a meal without wine is like a day without sunshine’. That’s a perfect way to describe the wine list of this fabulous restaurant: with a choice of seven whites, six reds and three rosés on offer, the wine list provides great accompaniments to some amazingly authentic dishes.
England’s No.1 Fish & Chip Shop 2010
Have a bowl of olives to start for £3.95, followed by a starter from the selection including sardines, antipasto, calamari or mussels (average price £6.95). Perhaps enjoy a glass of wine while you wait for your main course, with a choice of chicken, lamb, steak and veal scallops, at an average price of £15. There is also a selection of fish, risottos, salads, paninis, pastas and pizzas, along with a fantastic children’s menu. Del Villaggio serves some of the finest Italian cuisine in the city at some of the most reasonable prices. Along with its convenient location in the busy shopping centre, ‘it’s not just food, it’s Italian food’. Unit 528, Bullring, Middle Mall, Birmingham B5 4BE 0121 643 1400 info@del-villaggio.com
Weddings
For a truly unique, intimate and unusual wedding breakfast and reception, think The Chameleon Restaurant, Bar and Club, Birmingham. Located just yards from Birmingham Registry Office, The Chameleon is the perfect venue offering a stunning and diverse interior where you can create the wedding celebration party of your dreams.
The entire venue can be reserved exclusively for you with private use of the bar, balconies, stage and catwalk for up to 300 guests at your post-ceremony celebrations.
• We fry in Traditional Beef Dripping • Extensive British Beer & Cider Menu • Secure parking underground • Cinema & Bowling Alley on Broadway Plaza Site
NEW Delivery Service 2 mile radius • Eat in or takeaway • Call & collect service available • 5HHHHH Hygiene Award Holder
13 Broadway Plaza, Francis Road, Birmingham. B16 8LP
Tel: 0121 456 5955 www.greatbritisheatery.co.uk
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We can accommodate up to 120 guests for a seated wedding breakfast with tailor made menu options created with you by Matt Wagstaff and his brigade. From Champagne Reception Canapés to Wedding Breakfast Banquets and on to late night nibbles, everything you choose will be totally bespoke and tailor made to you. Please contact Izzy Grey on 0121 643 2233 or email at izzy@thechameleonbham.com who will be only too pleased to help you. www.thechameleonbham.com The Chameleon, 1 Victoria Square, Hill Street, Birmingham, B1 1BD
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The perfect balance to Easter chocolate, this light, fresh seafood classic can be rustled up whenever guests arrive
Food & drink NEWS
Enjoy Easter with these mouthwatering treats
MOULES MARINIERE Serves 4.
Ingredients 1.75kg mussels 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 4 shallots, finely chopped 50g butter A bouquet garni of parsley, thyme and bay leaves 200ml dry white wine or cider 200ml double cream Handful of parsley leaves, coarsely chopped Crusty bread, to serve Method 1. Wash and scrub the mussels under plenty of cold, running water. Discard any open ones that won’t close when lightly squeezed.
2. Pull out the tough, fibrous beards protruding from between the tightly closed shells and then knock off any barnacles with a large knife. Give the mussels another quick rinse to remove any little pieces of shell. 3. Sweat the garlic and shallots in the butter with the bouquet garni, in a large pan big enough to take all the mussels.
ADD SPARKLE Camitz Sparkling Vodka uses water from Ice Age underground springs in Töllsjö in Sweden, where the balance of minerals is ideal for the production of superior vodka. It’s perfect with delicate flavours such as fresh seafood, sushi and oysters, or in cocktails with Champagne. Find it in Selfridges from £13.99.
4. Add the mussels and wine or cider, turn up the heat, then cover and steam them open in their own juices for 3-4 minutes. Give the pan a good shake every now and then.
BARGAIN BUY If you want to buy someone a fun, affordable treat at Easter, try a Millie’s Cookies chocolate chip cookie. You can personalise it with your very own message (of up to 20 characters), too, from £1.25.
5. Remove the bouquet garni, add the cream and chopped parsley and remove from the heat. 6. Spoon into four large warmed bowls and serve with lots of crusty bread, and a good white port: we love Sandemans Apitiv White Port, £9.49, Waitrose.
SWEET BOOK
WE
LOVE.....
China teacup and saucer, £6.99, Wysteria Lane in Pavilions.
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Fans of ice-cream (and who isn’t?) will love new book Ice creams, Sorbets and Gelati: A Definitive Guide by Caroline and Robin Weir, £25. With more than 400 recipes for ice creams, gelato, graniti, bombes, parfaits, wafers, biscuits, punches and even ice creams for diabetics and vegans, there’s something for everyone. Even Heston Blumenthal loves the book, saying: “What Robin Weir doesn’t know about the history of ice cream is not worth knowing. His relentless research and boundless passion have inspired me for years.”
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RED ONION AND BLUE CHEESE RISOTTO Ideal for a light lunch or chic dinner party main course, risotto is well worth the effort
Food & drink NEWS From artisan chocolates to crisp white wine, your spring shopping list starts here
Serves 4 Preparation time 10 minutes Cooking time 30 minutes
Ingredients
Method
50g/2oz butter
1 Melt the butter and 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large saucepan; add the onions and garlic and fry gently for 2-3 minutes until just beginning to soften then stir in the rice.
2 tablespoons olive oil 2 red British onions, thinly sliced 2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 300g/10oz risotto rice 2-3 stems fresh rosemary, plus extra to garnish 200ml/7fl oz white wine 1.5 litre/21/2 pints hot vegetable stock Salt and ground black pepper 6 Slices Parma ham 150g/5oz blue cheese, such as stilton, St Agur or Roquefort, rind removed, diced
2 Strip the leaves from rosemary stems and add to the pan with the wine, a ladleful of the hot stock and some salt and pepper. Simmer, stirring from time until the rice has absorbed the stock, continue adding ladlefuls of stock as needed until the rice is soft and creamy and all, or almost all of the stock has been added. This will take about 25 minutes.
1. Paradiso Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Chile, £4.99, M&S (buy three bottles and receive 10% off): A vibrantly fruity and fresh Chilean wine bursting with grapefruit and gooseberry flavours. 2. Harvey Nichols New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, £12.50: This modern, crisp wine would be outstanding at any Easter gettogether, and works well with salad, canapés and dessert. 3. Crow’s Fountain Sauvignon Blanc 2010, South Africa, £5.99, M&S: An aromatic, zesty dry white with a rich and fruity aroma with hints of freshly mown grass, and a flavour of ripe gooseberries and pears. 4. Canelo Fairtrade Sauvignon Blanc 2010, £4.99, M&S: A Fairtrade wine from Chilean winery Viñedos Los Roble, which helps producers invest in projects which enhance their workers’ standard of living.
3.
1.
4 Stir half the cheese into the risotto, spoon into shallow soup bowls and sprinkle with the remaining cheese and Parma ham. Garnish with small sprigs of extra rosemary and serve.
2.
GIFT IDEA With Easter just around the corner, now’s the time to spoil your family and friends, or even yourself, with a fine chocolate indulgence. Two of our faves? Green & Black’s premium chocolate Easter eggs, with Fairtrade choc formed into extra thick shells (from £2.99 in supermarkets), and the cutesy Easter bunnies, Lepre di Cioccolato, in milk, dark and white chocolate, £6.95 from Carluccio’s.
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An elegant sauvignon blanc is the perfect accompaniment to Easter sugar excess. We tasted four of the most sophisticated new bottles.
3 Heat the remaining oil in a large frying pan, add the Parma ham and fry for 2 minutes or until just crispy. Take out of the pan with a slotted spoon and cut into thick strips on a chopping board.
TWO TREATS
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FOUR OF THE BEST
Artisan du Chocolat, £11.95, Harvey Nichols.
4.
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what son ’
From chocolate-making to zip-wiring, there is something for everyone to do in Birmingham this Easter.
EDITED BY JENNIFER WALKER
Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses, Edgbaston Easter Egg Hunt, April 24
Cadbury World, Bournville Easter Spectacular, throughout Easter If you love chocolate, you’ll love Cadbury World, and this Easter the popular Bournville attraction is planning a series of egg-cellent themed activities and entertainment. Throughout Easter, entertainers Charley Farley and Rags will be amusing visitors with their circus performances and magic tricks. Families will also be treated to performances by ventriloquist, Kimmo and children’s entertainer, Mark Traversoni. Uncover a world of chocolate delights in Cadbury World’s 14 amazing zones and experience the magic of chocolate-making as you watch the chocolatiers craft some of Cadbury’s most famous treats. If you’re looking for the perfect place to take the kids this Easter then Cadbury World has something for everyone, bringing chocolate to life with the help of its mascot Chuckle Bean. For more information about events, prices and offers visit www.cadburyworld.co.uk.
Springtime at Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston is one of the loveliest times of the year to visit this hidden oasis of the city. Explore the 15 acres of landscaped gardens; don’t forget your camera to capture the carpet of spring bulbs. From 12-noon to 4pm on 24 April, the Easter Egg Hunt returns to the Botanical Gardens. Children aged 5-16 can follow the trail of clues, correctly answer all the questions and then receive a chocolate reward. You can also try your hand at making colourful Easter bonnets and caps and take a stroll through the Discovery Garden and playground, as well as putting your feet up in the Pavilion tearoom for a well deserved cuppa. For more information visit www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk or call 0121 454 1860.
Ackers Adventure, Sparkbrook Adventure Days, throughout Easter This Easter, Ackers Adventure centre is running activities throughout the holidays called Whizz Kids. Offering skiing, climbing, canoeing and archery at only £8 per person per session, including a fully qualified instructor and all equipment, this is a perfect way to keep the kids entertained. Also at Ackers Adventure is a taster day on Saturday 2 April from 10.30am. A great opportunity to try a number of different activities including skiing, zip wire, archery, kayaking, Jungle Challenge, canoeing, fan descender, climbing and tobogganing. Adults are £15, Juniors (7-16) are £13; under 7s can toboggan for free. Pre-booking for all activities is essential: call 0121 772 5111, or visit www.ackers-adventure.co.uk for more information. 66
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Think Tank Dino Jaws Exhibition, April 29 – September 5 This hands-on exhibition explores the diet and dining habits of dinosaurs, showing life-size moving models, fossil evidence and interactive touch-screen displays, as well as a virtual dinosaur dig. Developed by the Natural History Museum, Dino Jaws provides an insight into the day-to-day feeding rituals of our extinct friends. The Dino Jaws exhibition is free to Thinktank visitors and is open daily from 29 April to 5 September – a family ticket to Thinktank costs £39. For more information visit www.thinktank.ac or call 0121 202 2222.
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Solihull Arts Complex Easter Shows, throughout Easter There’s a wide variety of events on at the Solihull Arts Complex over the Easter holidays, with something for every member of the family to enjoy. For the over 12s there’s Ha Ha Holmes, an adventure for Sherlock Holmes and John Watson on Saturday 23 April at 7.30pm (£15 for adults and £14 for children). Solihull Gallery is offering a series of magic-themed workshops for children from 4-11 April, for £4 each – old clothing is advised as children may get messy! Also in the Gallery, paint your own cardboard house and characters with the Haunted House team (for ages 6+). For further information, and for other events on at Solihull Arts Complex, visit www.solihull.gov.uk.
Symphony Hall Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring 3D, April 21 The Rite of Spring, written in 1913, is one of Igor Stravinsky’s most famous ballets. Originally advised to be viewed with caution as the sharp note clashes and unconventional choreography were not what was expected at the time, the Rite of Spring is today viewed as a stylish musical spectacle. Julia Mach’s mesmerising live performance of the ballet provides a fantastic crossover between the music and the dance of the Rite of Spring. What better way to celebrate the on-set of Spring with a 3D performance of Stravinsky’s masterpiece? A bespoke interactive website is available, offering an insight into the concept and production, videos and behind the scenes feeds – visit www.riteofspring3d.thsh. co.uk. Tickets are priced from £5 to £22.50 and can be purchased from www.thsh.co.uk or by calling 0121 780 3333.
The Belfry, Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield Easter events, throughout Easter The Belfry has a whole host of events on offer this Easter, including an Afternoon Tea special in the Belfry Bar for £11.95 per person (every day throughout Easter) and Junior Academy Golf School (Monday – Friday, 9am to 4pm). With one and two day packages – costing £30 for one day or £55 for two days, to include lunch, equipment hire and range balls – juniors can take part in team and individual competitions with great prizes on offer. Also at The Belfry, enjoy overnight accommodation, dinner, bed and breakfast with chocolate painting classes for the little ones for just £69 per person (kids stay free when sharing an adult’s room) or a one night stay with 36 holes of golf for just £119 per golfer – this includes full English breakfast, and free entry into the Bel Air nightclub if stay is Thursday, Friday or Saturday. For information on these offers and more, visit www.thebelfry.com or call 0300 500 0401. www.stylebirmingham.com
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FABULOUS
cuisine at
cielo
REVIEWED BY LEAH EDMUNDS EDITED BY JENNIFER WALKER
“
Greeted by an overwhelming atmosphere of classic Italian generosity
Winners of Best Restaurant in the Best of Broad Street Awards (BOBS) 2011, Cielo has gone from strength to strength, feeding the people of Birmingham fabulous cuisine. Located in the stylish Brindleyplace, Cielo has picked up a plethora of awards since 2007. From the moment we walked through the door we were greeted by an overwhelming atmosphere of classic Italian generosity. The classically designed interior of pastel colours and chic furniture complemented by the fantastic water feature and the relaxing mood lighting provide the perfect environment for a romantic meal. We ordered a bottle of the Pinot Grigio Rosé Mannara for £19.95 while we browsed the menu in awe. To start, I chose Formaggio di capra con rucola e barbabietola rossa – glazed goat’s cheese with roasted pine nuts served with rocket and beetroot salad for £6.95 and my husband chose Antipasto all’Italiana – a selection of Italian cured meats served with pickled vegetables and wild rocket leaves for £9.95. Both of these starters looked and tasted as delicious as they sounded on the menu. With a large selection of meat and fish dishes on the menu, we decided to try one of each, opting for Risotto ai frutti di mare – Arborio rice risotto with
mussels, Atlantic prawns, squid tubes and prawn crevette, served in a pomodoro sauce for £15.95 and the Tagliatelle fiorentina – tagliatelle pasta with chicken, spinach, mushrooms and plum tomatoes, served in a cream and white wine sauce for £13.95. We also ordered an Insalata di rucola e parmigiano – rocket leaf and parmesan salad for £3.50 which provided that bit of freshness to the dishes. After glancing at the beautiful dessert menu, we both decided we were too full and opted to just go for coffees. I had a delicious Amaretto coffee while my husband went for a filter coffee. This fabulous restaurant also offers a fixed priced menu for £12.95 for two-courses and £15.95 for three-courses, but book a table as it is very popular.
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COMPETITIONS Win £500 WORTH OF LASER HAIR REMOVAL WITH RAZOR AMNESTY MONTH AT
SK:N CLINIC In just one year, Brits can spend a massive £1.8 billion on razors for hair removal. That’s why Birmingham Sk:n clinic has teamed up with Nicky Hambleton-Jones from Channel 4’s 10 Years Younger to host a Razor Amnesty. Anyone who wants to give laser hair removal a go, can simply hand in their razor and receive a free laser hair removal test patch and an in-depth consultation with a Sk:n expert, normally worth £25. Sk:n brings you cutting-edge technology combined with leading medical specialists who can provide expert solutions to any of your skin related problems, including
unwanted hair. Sk:n clinics use the latest in laser technology to focus a beam of light on the hair follicle beneath the skin’s surface to quickly and safely stop the hair from growing. To celebrate the Razor Amnesty, Sk:n is offering one lucky Style Birmingham reader the opportunity to win £500 worth of laser hair removal to get fuzz-free for the summer. For your chance to win simply answer the following question: What safe procedure does Sk:n use to remove unwanted hair? a) Surgery b) Bleaching c) Lasers
STOP
PRESS
Send you answer on a postcard with your full name, address and telephone number to: Sk:n Competition, Publishing Ink Ltd, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4EU by 29 April 2011. Terms and conditions: Over 18s only. No cash alternative is available. Simply pop in to your local Sk:n clinic with an old razor or call 0800 028 7222 and quote this article for your free laser hair removal test patch. Find Birmingham Sk:n clinic at 32 Harborne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3AA or visit www.sknclinics.co.uk to find out more information.
Win A STUNNING MINIMALISTIC WATCH AT
FOLLI FOLLIE The spirit of the luxury Greek accessories brand, Folli Follie is captured within their latest women’s collections this season. Unveiling Folli Follie’s numerous families, each independent collection features an array of beautiful investment accessories from coordinating jewellery and watches through to bags and scarves.
Be spoilt for choice with Folli Follie’s full fashion concept of fun and desirable jewellery and watches which is driven by its philosophy of offering affordable, fashionable luxury. Marvel at the delicate sparkly necklaces and earrings, lust for the array of statement rings, be dazzled by the choice of traditional or oversized watches - our favourite is the crystal encrusted timepiece from the Minimalistic Collection. Mix and match from different families to create your own look whilst discovering
and exploring Folli Follie’s abundance of creativity and colourful stories for the wild at heart. To be in with a chance of winning a stunning Minimalistic watch (right) please answer the following question: From what country does Folli Follie originate? Send your answer, name, address and telephone number to Folli Follie Competition, Publishing Ink Ltd, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4EU by 6 May 2011. Terms and Conditions:
The competition closes on 6 May 2011. No Cash alternative. The winner will be notified by Publishing Ink Ltd with details on how to collect their prize.
TO ENTER THESE COMPETITIONS GO TO WWW.STYLEBIRMINGHAM. COM or, alternatively, send your answer, name, address and telephone number to Publishing Ink, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4EU
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ENTER
NOW
www.mailboxlife.com
SPEND £500 AND ENJOY THE RED CARPET TREATMENT Spend £500 at The Mailbox. Enjoy a free luxury night’s stay at Malmaison with dinner for two*
*Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.mailboxlife.com for more details.