Mailbox Life - Autumn 2016

AUTUMN 16 THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR WALKING Sleek and stylish boots perfect for this autumn IN THE KITCHEN We chat to Michelin starred chef Tom Aikens ahead of the opening of Tom’s Kitchen WE LOVE PAUL SMITH Ahead of its opening, we take a look at the rise of this quintessentially British brand

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elcome to the autumn issue of Mailbox Life. Once again we’re preparing to embrace a change of seasons and getting ready for the colder months. With that in mind we’ve got plenty of tips and inspiration from fashion to lifestyle to help you make the most of autumn.

We’ve said our goodbyes to summer, and now it’s time to transform your wardrobe by adding in new staple pieces; our fashion pages have everything you need from the season’s top trends to our must-have items. If you’re struggling to find inspiration, we’ve teamed up with beauty and lifestyle blogger, The Ting Thing who will take your through her key A/W16 looks from the top retailers here at the Mailbox.

If it’s not your wardrobe that needs a bit of a refresh, our beauty memo will walk you through the top looks of the season, and give you a step-by-step guide on how to achieve an effortless autumn look with Harvey Nichols.

For you stylish gents, we’ve got plenty of style tips to keep you looking sharp this autumn, plus our grooming pages will also help you keep your skin on top form.

There are lots of exciting things happening in the Mailbox over the coming months. We talk to Michelin starred chef, Tom Aikens ahead of the opening of Tom’s Kitchen in December, and shine the spotlight on luxury label Paul Smith.

If all of this wasn’t enough, we discover a selection of the most indulgent dishes on offer at our bars and restaurants in the coming months - trust us, you’re in for a treat whichever restaurant you choose to visit.

Enjoy the issue!

David Pardoe Head of Marketing, Retail and Tenant Engagement

OPENING TIMES: Monday – Saturday 10am – 7pm Sunday 11am – 5pm BARS & RESTAURANTS: Monday – Sunday 10am – Late

FOLLOW US: @mailboxlife

themailboxbham +mailboxbirmingham

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CONTENTS FASHION

MEN

06 What To Love Now The key A/W16 pieces and looks 12 Closet Confidental Fashion blogger Ting on how to nail autumn’s trends 16 These Boots Were Made For Walking New season footwear you need now 20 My Mailbox Vicky Coliandris, Marketing Manger at Gas Street Social, on what she loves about her job 22 A British Success L.K. Bennett - We take a look at the seasons luxury looks 24 We Love Paul Smith An introduction to the quintessentially British brand 26 Against the Elements Embrace the cold weather and immerse yourself in hard-working fabrics

52 The Edit Must-have pieces you need this autumn 56 A Layer Above The Rest Keeping warm doesn’t mean your style has to suffer 61 How To Wear Introducing pink into your A/W16 wardrobe 62 Get In Line The military staples leading the way this season 63 My Mailbox Max Harvey, Gieves & Hawks Store Manager, on luxury tailoring 64 The New Essentials Key grooming products to keep you looking & smelling your best

BEAUTY 43 What’s Hot Now The berry products you need this season 44 Beauty Brief Give your skin some TLC with Rodial’s Bee Venom range 45 Back To Basics Autumn’s beauty keeps it simple and understated. We teach you how achieve the look 50 Girls Just Wanna Have Fun! Wild 80s locks are making a comeback

LIFE 68 Life News The latest news from the Mailbox this autumn 69 Simplicity Meets Sophistication Get to know the city’s hottest new hotel 72 In The Kitchen We talk to Tom Aikens ahead of the opening of Tom’s Kitchen 74 Autumn Dishes The mouthwatering meals on offer at the Mailbox 78 Welcome Home Birmingham Designer Kalun Law shares his trend tips for creating a perfect kitchen

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Mailbox Life is created by RileyRaven • www.rileyraven.co.uk • hello@rileyraven.co.uk Editor-in-Chief Andrew Riley Creative Director Mike Raven Editorial Assistant Becky Weaver Sub-Editor Lisa Piddington Design Simon Konaszczuk Contributors Ellen Atkinson, Emily Smith, Jade Woodhouse, Laura Bradnick, Molly Davies

On the cover: She Wears, Stella McCartney coat, £1245, Jimmy Choo boots, £575. He wears: Dsquared2 jeans, £345, Alexander McQueen jumper, £630, Moncler jacket, £670 all from Harvey Nichols

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 Mailbox Life. 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.

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THE FASHION MEMO Fall In Love With Autumn

Issey Miyaki

It’s time to reinvent your wardrobe and relax into autumn with comfort. This season is all about softness and luxury; chunky knits and statement boots will become your best friend, while bold berry colours continue to dominate the A/W16 palette.

Layering is key to keeping warm, and with so many irresistible outerwear pieces in stores at the Mailbox, fashion this season never looked so good.

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Words: Jade Woodhouse

WHAT TO LOVE NOW Look out for luxury knits, wild prints and bold accessories. It’s time to update your wardrobe and reinvent your look with our style guide; A/W16 has officially landed

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The Statement Bag: Cavalli Class

Cavalli Class leather handbag ÂŁ229, Daniel Footwear

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The combination of luxurious leather paired with a bold gold chain is giving us real autumnal vibes. In a classic colour easy to pair with almost any look, this Cavalli Class handbag is a perfect addition to your wardrobe this season.

Emilio Pucci

Golden Goose Distressed suede trainers, £290, Harvey Nichols

Moschino Layered organza T-shirt dress, £695, Harvey Nichols

Adidas Originals Neoprene trainers, £95, Harvey Nichols

The Look: Sports Luxe As comfortable as it is stylish, this trend - more commonly known as ‘athleisure’ - combines bold colours with single stripes to give ultimate tracksuit vibes, whilst remaining sophisticated. If bright colours and tight fittings are too much for you, why not pair a simple outfit with some killer trainers to add a modern yet sporty edge to your look.

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Kenzo Neoprene bucket bag, £315, Harvey Nichols

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Stella McCartney

Emilio Pucci

Stella McCartney

Alexander McQueen Intarsia wool coat, £1395, Harvey Nichols

The Trend: The Puffer Jacket Where functionality meets fashion, the puffer jacket remains a fine combination of both. From Stella McCartney’s modern reinvention of the classic puffer with various fabrics to Emilio Pucci’s experimentation of bold prints, this piece brings a fresh, youthful feel to practical outerwear.

The Key Piece: The Wool Cape As the colder months start to rein in, this Alexander McQueen cape will undoubtedly become an integral part of your look. Easy to pair with almost any outfit, this timeless piece is guaranteed to keep you warm this season. Pair with skinny jeans, a leather clutch and heels for an edgy smart/casual look.

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Stella McCartney

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Paul Smith Leopard pattern shirt, £155

Olivia Burton Watch, £70, Harvey Nichols

Stella McCartney Leopard print faux fur jacket £1,180, Harvey Nichols

Paul Smith Wool giraffe sweater, £195 Stella McCartney Faux calf hair bag, £785, Harvey Nichols

L.K.Bennett Snake effect courts, £195

THE WILD SIDE

Valentino Small Japenese Ocean bag, £1,860, Harvey Nichols

This season’s exotic prints as seen on the catwalk from Burberry and Topshop Unique are bound to bring out your inner animal instinct

STYLE TIP:

Topshop Unique

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Animal prints and patterns are often hard to master and can sometimes seem daunting. However, try to avoid combining animal prints and instead work around one print as your focal point. An easy way to incorporate this trend into your everyday look is a chic pair of printed heels to add a sense of character to a more minimalistic look.

Gucci BowEmbellished shirt, £585, Harvey Nichols Kenzo Embroidered sweatshirt, £175, Harvey Nichols

As seen from the likes of Alexander McQueen and Valentino on this season’s catwalks, needlework is back with a bang. Whether you’re jazzing up an old denim jacket or reinventing the classic blouse, embroidery is a sure-fire way to add a individual touch to any outfit.

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Christopher Kane

boots, £595

Lanvin

The Trend: Embroidery

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L.K.Bennett Embroidered

Hugo Boss

Aquazzura Embroidered suede pumps, £530, Harvey Nichols

The Details: Golden Touch Combine bold and gold to effortlessly brighten up your look this season, eye-catching arm candy is the perfect addition to any outfit.

Dare to ditch your dainty jewellery and make a statement with this Kenneth Jay Lane hammered cuff, ideal as a finishing touch when paired with elegant whites and laid-back tailoring.

Kenneth Jay Lane Large hammered cuff, £130, Harvey Nichols

The Timeless Classic: Black Leather Ankle Boots A simple yet staple piece for your wardrobe this autumn, black leather ankle boots are both versatile and chic. Whether you’re kicking back at the weekend or heading out for an evening meal, these classic boots will bring a minimal and polished touch to any outfit.

Daniel Sammi Black leather chelsea boots, £119, Daniel Footwear

Valentino Rockstud ankle boots, £790, Harvey Nichols

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Tommy Hilfiger Leather ankle boot, £130, Tommy Hilfiger

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Rick Owens Suede biker

Three Floor

jacket, £1055 Harvey Nichols

Black lace midi dress, £350, Harvey Nichols

Calvin Klein Underwear Push-up bra, £52 and hipsters underwear, £31

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Valentino

STYLE TIP:

Studded accessories will add a rebellious twist to your outfit. Opt for an embellished bag to add an element of grunge glamour to a minimal look.

Wildfox Fringed crochet top, £150, Harvey Nichols

Versus Versace Embellished crossbody bag, £450, Daniel Footwear

THE DARK SIDE As sensual gothic vibes haunt this season’s catwalks, don’t be afraid to experiment with lace and leather as femininity goes vamp

HOW TO WEAR:

Romantic lace is a key feature of this season’s gothic trend, as seen at Balmain and Topshop Unique. Don’t be put off by sheer fabrics, as layering is key to mastering this look and opting for the high-neck option will ensure you don’t feel too exposed.

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DKNY Quilted leather backpack, £340, Harvey Nichols

Lanvin

Valentino Studded leather bracelet, £120, Harvey Nichols

Stella McCartney One-shoulder lace gown, £1495, Harvey Nichols

From monochrome pinstripe suits to multicoloured statement dresses, stripes remain a key feature of the A/W16 catwalk. Horizontal, vertical and asymmetric stripes dominated collections from Christopher Kane and Issey Miyake with various colour combinations, demonstrating the versatility of the print itself. To avoid stripe clashes when working with this look, choose a key piece to experiment around and pair with simple jewellery.

Tommy X Gigi Cotton roll neck sweater, £110, Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger Denim jacket, £125

Miu Miu

The Print: Seasonal Stripes

10 Tommy x Gigi Venice skinny fit jeans, £155

Tommy Hilfiger Tote bag, £145

Pinko Fine-knit jumper, £125, Harvey Nichols

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Isabel Marant Étoile Wool blend jacket, £320, Harvey Nichols

PS by Paul Smith Roll-neck wool sweater, £195

Acne Studios Funnel-neck cotton sweatshirt, £180, Harvey Nichols

Styling Idea: Laidback Denim Denim never goes out of fashion, so the reinvention of your daily go-to favourites with wide cuts and raw edges brings a new lease of life to your casual basics. Say goodbye to skinny fits this autumn and hello to oversized and distressed pieces; acid-wash and two-tone denim is prominent across catwalks such as Miu Miu this season.

The Seasonal Favourite: Roll Neck Jumper Both effortless and practical, the roll neck jumper is the perfect addition to your autumn wardrobe. From fine to chunky knit, this garment will be your best friend as temperatures begin to drop this season. Although an ideal piece to wear as a casual option, the roll neck isn’t limited to the daytime as proven by Stella McCartney and Emilio Pucci on the catwalk. Whether you’re opting for neutral hues to layer up during the colder months, or making a statement by embracing a pop of colour, this piece is a must-have.

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

Victoria, Victoria Beckham Jacket £570 & skirt £395 both Harvey Nichols

CLOSET

Confidential Words: Becky Weaver

THE TING THING The Birmingham-based lifestyle and beauty blogger chats to us about her growing collection of L.K. Bennett dresses, her favourite places to wine and dine and the story behind her blog

A SHOP IT! All of Ting’s looks are available in stores now!

fter being made redundant from her consultancy job, Birmingham-based blogger Ting Newall’s life took a turn; whilst out for some commiseration drinks with her friend, a new adventure began for her.

“My friend was telling me that I needed to focus on something positive for my day-to-day life, and that I should see this as an opportunity to do something that I really wanted to do,” she tells us whilst sipping on a cup of green tea. “He suggested that I should start a blog, and being a linguist he came up with my blog name, the next day he prompted me to register the domain The Ting Thing and just start writing.”

Now, two years down the line Ting has gained a respectable following on her blog, a space she uses to talk about all things from meals she’s indulged in at some of the city’s restaurants, to her favourite beauty products, as well as fitness and lifestyle posts. “It very quickly became something that I really enjoyed doing,” she beams, “I loved the people that I was meeting doing it, so I thought ‘ok lets give it a year and see what happens’, within that time I’d got into a bit of a stride with it, and now in I’m in a place where I didn’t think I would be when I first started.”

Overall it seems like everything is going well for Ting, working from

Monola Blahnik Shoes £450, Harvey Nichols

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her home in the centre of the city she’s able to balance her blog alongside a job in social media, and co-running the blogging network Birmingham Bloggers - with Laura Creaven of blog Full To The Brum.

“Laura’s more focused on the food side and I’m more involved in the lifestyle side, so between the two of us we wanted to create a community and we also wanted to celebrate Birmingham,” she says of Birmingham Bloggers. “We’re building a network of bloggers to get to know each other, but also celebrating amazing venues in the city,” she says. “We have meet-ups and go around to all of these different places, it’s a great way to meet other bloggers who understand each other.”

When she’s not blogging, Ting spends a lot of her time in the Mailbox with her husband - living just next door she’s just a stroll away from some

‘I’VE ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT BIRMINGHAM NEEDS A DESTINATION LIKE THE MAILBOX’

of her favourite shops and restaurants; a blessing in itself for anyone who has a love for good food and fashion.

“I’ve actually lived next door to the Mailbox for nine years now and I’ve been in Birmingham for 14, I’ve always stayed in the city centre. It’s great walking through the Mailbox everyday, I love the retailers and the Urban Room that’s there now.

“One of the best things about the Urban Room is that there are so many differences between the labels that are in there, but each one is at the quality that you would expect from somewhere like that. I’ve always thought that Birmingham needs a destination like the Mailbox, without it Birmingham doesn’t satisfy the diverse population that’s here.

“I remember the Mailbox before it was re-developed, I used to walk through the old building when I worked in The Cube. It’s evolved so much over the years, and I have to say now it feels much more grown up, luxurious and glamorous than ever before. I think that it’s good that the Mailbox has been brought up to date, without that I think Birmingham would’ve been left behind other cities.”

Alongside her love for shopping in Harvey Nichols, when it comes to fashion the brand that fills Ting’s stylish wardrobe is L.K. Bennett, and she quickly admits to us that she’s a self confessed hoarder

IN THE BAG ‘Blue is my all time favourite colour. Armani Collezioni have the perfect accessories in at the moment in some beautiful shades! ’

BOOT CAMP ‘I love these L.K. Bennett ankle boots, they’re perfect for autumn and super comfy!’

Polo neck jumper £110, floral skirt £225 & patent ankle boots £295 all L.K. Bennett of the luxury store’s dresses.

“I’ve had to encroach on my husband’s side of the wardrobe with my collection of dresses from there, which I don’t know if I should be proud of or not,” she giggles. “I also like going to browse in Daniel Footwear.

I’m so excited about the addition of Paul Smith too - mostly because my husband looks so good in the clothes.”

“Sometimes when you walk through the Mailbox you don’t realise how much some of the shops hold but then they end up being like a treasure trove. I feel like that’s how it is with the Mailbox; when you actually go into one of the stores they’re filled with so much and you can easily spend an afternoon just shopping.”

We’re intrigued as to what the wardrobe of a blogger is really like; Ting has chosen numerous stunning outfits from stores at the Mailbox for her shoot today - but we’re keen to know how her wardrobe differs from a day working on her blog at home, to a night out in the city.

“When I’m at home having a chillout day you’ll find me in more comfy clothes. I work from my laptop most of the day, I’m always looking for comfort; something that’s easy to pull on like jeans and a T-shirt or a blouse and a skirt, or even just a simple jersey dress.

“If I’m going out and networking, hosting or attending an event I like to make a bit more of an effort - that’s when my L.K. Bennett dresses come out. It’s handy to sometimes pop into Harvey Nichols and get a blow dry or a make-over if I’m in a rush. Shavata Nail

@THE_TING_THING Armani Jeans Bag £260, jeans £160, gilet £140, ankle boots £250 & shirt, £150 all Armani Collezioni

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SHINE BRIGHT ‘L.K. Bennett have the most beautiful boho inspired collection this season, I like to dress it up with a patent accessories for instant glamour’

and Brow Studio at Harvey Nichols is very affordable; they do an amazing job and have such amazing colours to choose from.

“I feel like once I’ve got dressed up that I’m ready for any adventure the night may bring. If that means ending up at a bar after an event - we sometimes head to Gas Street Social or Aluna for a nightcap - I’m totally ready.”

Ting mentions that she and her husband regularly take advantage of all that is on offer at the Mailbox, often spending their date nights in their favourite bars and restaurants.

“I do enjoy a cocktail or two at Gas Street Social or Aluna; if you like the whole theatrical experience Aluna is perfect for that. My husband and I love eating at Malmaison and we love the restaurant in Harvey Nichols - it’s really reasonably priced; I had my birthday meal there, they took care of all my dietary requirements and even my mother-in-law was happy, which was a real test because she doesn’t drink and likes a good hearty meal.

“Sometimes my husband and I have decided to treat ourselves at Everyman, so we’ve just gone along and then popped into somewhere else in the Mailbox for a drink and dessert to just wind down and talk about the film.”

With family from Hong Kong often visiting, Ting is a big fan of hosting them at hotels within the Mailbox. “It’s so convenient if I’ve got family visiting because we can just book them into a hotel, and that just gives a lovely impression if I’m able to say that we’re 14

‘I’M SO EXCITED ABOUT THE ADDITION OF PAUL SMITH, MY HUSBAND LOOKS SO GOOD IN THE CLOTHES.’ able to put them in a hotel just next door. Also, if they don’t know Birmingham very well and I put them into a hotel such as Malmaison then they know the brand, and get to see the stunning location, it gives them a really great impression of the city.”

You can shop all of Ting’s looks in stores now. Read Ting’s blog at thetingthing.co.uk.

READ IT! For more stories visit the Mailbox blog at mailboxlife.com/blog

Floral dress £425, clutch bag £195 & ankle boots £275 all L.K. Bennett

NOW OPEN at the Mailbox, Birmingham pa ulsmith.co.uk

THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR WALKING Stroll into autumn with style: from classic ankle designs to statement over-the-knee boots, these killer shoes won’t let you put a foot wrong this season Words: Molly Davies

Gucci Black GG leather boots, £725, Harvey Nichols Simple and stylish these Gucci ankle boots will have heads turning as soon as you step out the door. With their timeless and sophisticated look, they’ll have you making plans just so you can get out this autumn and show them off. A perfect addition to any outfit with a touch of glamour, team them with jeans and a blouse for a look ready for the runway.

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Armani Jeans Black leather and nylon biker boots, £260 Add a bit of wardrobe rock and roll with these Armani biker boots. Sure to be your newest staple piece which you’ll be wearing again and again. Wear them with skin tight jeans, a crisp shirt and a military jacket; or dress them down for a more laid-back, weekend ready look.

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Daniel Footwear Burgundy Myra suede ruffled ankle boots, ÂŁ209 Add a splash of colour with these Myra ankle boots from Daniel Footwear. In a luxurious suede finish and a deep, rich, burgundy, a timeless classic which comes around every autumn. Pair these ankle boots with a stylish, A-line skirt and leather jacket, perfect for any date night.

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L.K. Bennett Black Yolanda suede ankle boots, ÂŁ350 These gorgeous L.K. Bennett boots are rendered in a luxurious suede are the perfect addition to any look; adding a touch of class with oversized gold rivets.

To really make a statement this season, team these stunning boots with a sophisticated silk midi dress, trench coat and matching suede clutch bag.

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MY MAILBOX:

VICKY COLIANDRIS The Business Development & Marketing Manager of Gas Street Social, talks about the creativity of her job, life at the Mailbox and how she spends her down time

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don’t think there is such a thing as a typical day for me; my role encompasses anything from working on up and coming promotions, to putting editorial together for any adverts we’re running. Somedays, I work with the chef on the menu and the presentation of the dishes, another day I could be out networking or at a cocktail tasting event. I work front of house a couple of days a week so that I can keep involved with that part of the business too, and sometimes I might find myself running a staff training day. I do all of the social media, it can be quite a challenge trying to come up with something new and exciting to put up there every day to keep people engaged.

My job can be quite challenging.

There are a lot of bars and restaurants around the city. Gas Street Social is an independent, small business so

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we need to make sure we’re always getting our name out there and making our mark.

I love the amount of creativity that comes with my job. Last year we gave the whole restaurant a new look for Christmas, and this year we’re doing the same. We’re planning to kit it out with skis, antlers, ski huts, fake snow and fir trees. People absolutely loved it last year. We’re going to have Christmas specials both in food and cocktails, our drinks menu changes quite frequently anyway but we’re putting some really cool festive favourites on there this year.

I’ve worked in hospitality for more than 20 years now. I’ve managed pubs and held a license for a long time. I love working in hospitality, and even by switching to marketing I’m still working within the industry, I just spend a bit less time on front of house than I used to.

@GASSTSOCIAL Our Gas Street Favourites!

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Rump of Lamb - £16.95 Fancy some comfort food? Try the herb crusted British lamb rump, served with a warm salad of beans, rosemary and roasted peppers.

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GSS Waffles - £5.95 We love the sweet and sticky GSS Waffles. Served with vanilla ice cream, salted caramel sauce and chopped hazelnuts. Give in to your sweet tooth and treat yourself!

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Pot Noodle Pain Killer - £8.50 A mix of Bacardi, coconut, pineapple juice, lime juice and a spiced mango reduction, this funky cocktail packs a heck of a punch.

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Bramble - £8.50 One of our all time favourite classic cocktails. Packed with Bombay Sapphire, black raspberry liqueur and lemon juice, this is a drink for gin lovers.

I LOVE THE CALIBRE OF THE SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS THAT WE HAVE HERE

TRY IT! Get a free cocktail when you sign up to the Gas Street Social mailing list on their website!

The Mailbox is a beautiful location to work in. I love the calibre of the shops and restaurants that we have here, it attracts a really nice crowd of people.

It’s become a destination now rather than just being another place to come and shop. People could easily spend an evening here, there’s such a great variety of places to go to.

We get such a varied clientele coming through the door. A lot of tourists come here now, some nights we’ll have a table full of diners who are here for a convention, as well as our regular customers. We get a lot of families and groups of friends too who come in at the weekend for brunch. It’s nice to see how the development of bars has brought a whole new crowd here.

For me it’s so important that there are independent businesses in the Mailbox. A lot of people are really backing independent restaurants,

coffee shops and bars, they’re eager to support them wherever they can.

Chain restaurants have their own merit, but I think we can respond to customer trends and feedback on a daily basis.

We try our best to change our menus very quickly, adjust our dishes to suit our customers and make cocktails that aren’t on the drinks menu.

The tapas style of dining has really taken off recently. It’s a nice way to eat with friends, it’s really informal and social. We based our menu around that sort of style, but we’re still a modern British restaurant. The challenge for us was to come up with a set of dishes that translate into that style of dining. It’s hugely popular, we get our inspiration from everywhere.

We need to always be aware of the current food trends to make sure we’re constantly keeping our menus up to date.

On my days off I love visiting the Everyman Cinema, it’s my go-to place to see a movie. Anywhere that will bring a burger to your seat and let you sip on a cocktail whilst you’re watching a movie is fine by me. The cocktails and food at Malmaison are great, the service is always spectacular. Working in this industry you always have quite high standards when you go out, but I’ve gone to Malmaison quite a few times for cocktails and it’s always delivered.

We have all of our meetings in the new AC Hotel, it’s nice to have a change of scenery every now and then.

The service is great and it’s a lovely, relaxing environment to go and work in.

Sometimes I’ll take my laptop and go and work in there for a few hours.

Harvey Nichols is incredible for window shopping. I actually bought a couple of shirts for work from Tommy Hilfiger, I was expecting to go and find a lot of casual items, but it has a great range of clothing that’s really perfect for workwear; it’s very stylish and quite understated. I’m so excited for Paul Smith opening in the Urban room.

The one thing that I bring to work with me is my handbag. My husband bought me one from L.K. Bennett – luckily he has great taste. I still use it everyday. I love the style, but also the size; on any given day of the week I could be carrying around anything from my laptop or iPad, to a stack of menus from the printers, and I’ll fit everything in that bag. L.K. Bennett is great for smart work wear, but it’s the shoes and handbags I love. Its bags are so beautifully made, they really stand up to heavy use and the designs are timeless.

My style at work completely depends on what the day holds for me. I tend to know in advance what I’m doing each day. If I know that I’m going to be upstairs in my office, working on new menu layouts then I just tend to have a shirt, jeans and my trusty Adidas Court Vantage trainers on. When I’m out of the office I tend to go with a nice pair of jeans, a smart shirt and heels, that’s my go-to look for anything else.

The Mailbox refurbishment has made such a difference. I love walking through the Urban Room and seeing people relaxing in there, having a coffee or a bellini and just taking advantage of the stunning space. It’s brought so many people down here, as well attracting new people to the city.

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

A BRITISH SUCCESS Chic, effortless, casual - L.K. Bennett has been crafting some of the most luxurious feminine wardrobes for more than 20 years

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stablished in 1990 by Linda Bennett in London, L.K. Bennett rapidly gained a reputation for its signature shoes.

Oozing British heritage, this label is known for producing the highest quality of feminine footwear.

Since its launch, the Shoreditchbased label has branched out worldwide, retailing in 166 branded locations including the Middle East, North America and Europe. With 114 locations based in the UK and Ireland alone, L.K. Bennett is a force to be reckoned with in the world of fashion.

Dressing some of the biggest celebrities, Bennett’s delicate designs have seen the label become of one the UK’s leading fashion brands. Most notably, L.K. Bennett has become a go-to for the likes of HRH Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton, who reportedly owns several variations of the Sledge patent nude court shoe (£175) among various other dresses which have become sellouts for the brand.

The luxury brand is now best known for mixing British heritage with a high fashion aesthetic, as showcased by its A/W16 collection, providing all of the fashion inspiration to get you through this autumn’s undeniably unpredictable weather forecast in style.

SEE IT! L.K. Bennett is hosting an exclusive

A/W16 Fashion show on 3rd November 2016.

RSVP in store or call 0121 643 7918

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@LKBENNETTLONDON

Rose cashmere Embroidered

Top, £125

L.K. Bennett A/W16

boots, £595

LAYER UP

Autumn/Winter 2016

Images courtesy of REX, Shutterstock, Tim Rooke & Rupert Hartley

The autumn collection oozes 1970s class and sophistication, with an injection of rich colours and tailoring.

L.K. Bennett’s newest collection will have you embracing your inner bohemian with long-line midi dresses, suede trench coats and floral prints. Complete your look with this season’s must-have delicately embroidered over-the-knee boots or black suede ankle boots that will take you through the autumn days and nights. Updated classics in must-have shapes such as the cross body and tote bags are given a modern refresh and are sure to give an injection of luxe to any outfit with metal accents.

Timeless classics this season include uber flattering herringbone trousers in sultry greys; continuing the traditional L.K silhouette - team with a silk blouse and military coat for off-the-rail perfection.

Alternatively pair with a tailored blazer and slouchy T-shirt for a cool nod to breezy silhouettes.

Blue suede trench coat, £995 Graphic floral skirt, £250

Leather flats, £995

Get The

L.K. Look

Our Top A/W16 Picks

As the colder months begin to creep in it’s time to start introducing layers back into your wardrobe. From stylish coats to causal jackets in a variety of tones and shades, L.K. Bennett’s A/W16 outerwear collections are suitable for any occasion.

The collection includes a long Persian blue suede trench coat, along with a cinnamon fur gilet, perfect for layering with the latest floral bohemian trends.

L.K. Bennett remains stylish no matter the weather, layering chunky burgundy jumpers with waistcoats and over-the-knee boots. Keep your style refined with L.K. Bennett’s casual pieces.

Knitwear is key to your autumn look and can even be layered over dresses and finished with a pair of sophisticated pointed pumps to create a perfect relaxed look.

The Right Royal

Did you know that Kate Middleton is a bit of an L.K. Bennett fashionista? HRH The Duchess of Cambridge is well known for sporting numerous pieces from the brand, including a Snorkel Blue Lasa poppy dress and a number of stunning heels and nude pumps. HRH has also been known to accessorise with L.K. Bennett pieces. She caught the eyes of many at Wimbledon back in July with her Alexander McQueen dress which she paired with an L.K. Bennett Natalie box clutch.

Cashmere top, £175

From a luxury wools to stunning accessories in rich suedes and leathers, these are the key pieces we’re lusting after from L.K. Bennett this season.

Evergreen wool Coat £450

Suede ankle boots, £250

Merlot red shoulder bag, £245

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

Words: Lisa Piddington

WE LOVE PAUL SMITH This autumn, the Mailbox welcomes luxury label Paul Smith to the Urban Room. To celebrate its arrival we take a look at the rise of the quintessentially British brand and discover how the designer helped transform traditional tailoring 24

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‘I ALWAYS TRY TO COME UP WITH TOTALLY UNIQUE SHOPS, WHEREVER THEY ARE IN THE WORLD.’ Paul Smith new. White concrete walls help create the perfect neutral space that is playfully filled with furnishings and eclectic objects.

Behind the tills, a statement picture wall - a common feature of Paul Smith shops across the world - adds to the irreverent style.

“From a giant bright pink box in Los Angeles to a Victorian townhouse with a cast iron facade in London, I always try to come up with totally unique shops, wherever they are in the world,” explains Paul.

His latest store certainly reflects his character, showcasing a love for diverse and eccentric designs paired with simple, soft-cut tailoring. In tribute to his first shop, a 3m2 square has been inlaid into the shop’s floor, mirroring its original dimensions; while its red façade references his love of Mexican architect Luis Barragán. “What’s lovely about this one is that it has a great mix of clothes and accessories for men and women, as well as a few unexpected twists and turns too,” Paul adds.

For the new season, Paul Smith A/W16 collections introduce an exciting colour palette of contrasting shades that truly embrace the 1970s. For men, bold knits and creative prints come to the fore. Embroidery and intricate detailing take centre stage in womenswear, reflecting an elegant, feminine version of the label’s menswear. Outerwear remains a strong main focus, with sharp tailoring on coats and jackets creating wearable pieces for any formal occasion.

SHOP IT!

PS by Paul Smith

PS by Paul Smith

Discover the new collection in store now.

Cashmere sweater, £320

Paul Smith AW16

s English as fish and chips and rainy Sundays, the Paul Smith label has been synonymous with classic British design and tailoring for more than 45 years. Renowned for its beautifully curated collections, it’s an empire that stretches around the globe, boasting more than 200 shops worldwide including Paris, Milan, New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong and U.A.E. Now Birmingham fans of this eponymous brand can get their hands on the very latest pieces at the Mailbox store.

Yet despite massive success in the industry, fashion is a long way from the designer’s original dream. Born in Nottingham in 1946, Paul left school at just 15 with no qualifications and aspirations of becoming a professional racing cyclist.

However, a serious accident when he was 17 ended his two-wheeled ambitions and instead he started taking tailoring classes.

This ignited a passion for the trade, taking inspiration from the traditional men’s clothing he admired as young boy; his brother’s Post Office shirts and the tweeds of the Nottinghamshire country set.

By 1969 Paul had opened his first boutique in his home city, the first shop outside London to stock high-end brands alongside his own designs. He was soon spotted by chairman of Lincroft Kilgour, Harold Tillman, and began working on Savile Row. By 1975 he showcased his first menswear collection in Paris under the Paul Smith Label to huge acclaim.

Knighted in 2001 for services to British fashion, Paul’s label has rapidly grown over the last four decades. Without doubt, his greatest attribute is simplicity. He describes his designs as “well-made, good quality, simple cut made with interesting fabrics that are easy to wear” often with a splash of vibrant colour, a floral print or signature multi-coloured stripes.

The latest shop in the Mailbox stocks his covetable men’s, women’s and children’s collections as well as an expertly edited range of shoes, accessories, artwork and curiosities.

Based in the uber-stylish Urban Room alongside Calvin Klein, Gieves & Hawkes and Tommy Hilfiger, the interior of Paul Smith Birmingham beautifully blends the old and the

Black leather ankle boots £295

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

AGAINST THE ELEMENTS Battle against the crisp, cold autumnal weather and immerse yourself in layers of the season’s most hard-working and natural fabrics Photography: Mike Raven Models: Egle Standtaite at Base Models and Alex Frey at Bookings Hair: Chris Harris Gibbs Make-up: Sarah Hunston Styling: Luisa Hackney

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She wears: Leather jacket, £330, Bibi jumper, £150 He wears: Padded parka, £445 all from Tommy Hilfiger

Dsquared2 Jeans, £345, Alexander McQueen jumper, £630, Moncler jacket, £670, Balmain boots, £740 Balmain all from Harvey Nichols

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Burgundy jeans, £140, jumper, £210, leather jacket, £740, black boots, £145 all from Armani Jeans

Nicole Farhi Jumper, £325, Acne Studios scarf, £130 all from Harvey Nichols

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Shearling coat, £2,795, navy jeans, £175, jumper, £195, all from Gieves & Hawkes

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High neck jumper, £165, hat, £45, wrap coat, £375, knee-high boots, £495, belt, £110 all from L.K. Bennett

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Shearling coat, £2,795, jeans, £175, knitted jumper, £195 all from Gieves & Hawkes

Jeans, £139, polo-neck jumper, £129, brown shoes, £280, coat, £950 all from Boss

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Alpha Industries Shearling-trimmed jacket, £200, Harvey Nichols

Tommy Hilfiger Belinda cardigan, ÂŁ140

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Jeans, £175, knitted jumper, £195, orange gilet, £495 all from Gieves & Hawkes

She wears: Stella McCartney coat, £1245, Jimmy Choo moon boots, £575 He wears: Dsquared2 jeans, £345, Alexander McQueen jumper, £630, Moncler jacket, £670 all from Harvey Nichols

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Burgundy jumper, £165, hat, £45, wrap coat, £375, knee-high boots, £495, belt, £110 all from L.K. Bennett

Leather jacket, ÂŁ330, Bibi jumper, ÂŁ150 all from Tommy Hilfiger

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She wears: Grey classic hat, £90, jeans, £145, croc backpack, £140, grey knit jumper £240, fur gilet, £270 He wears: Burgundy jeans, £140, jumper, £210 all from Armani Jeans

THE BEAUTY MEMO Skin Rules You Need To Follow

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Tom Ford

Strip back to the basics this autumn and take your beauty regime right back to the start.

Making the simplest changes to your beauty routine can completely transform your skin - this time of year is when it really needs that extra TLC. Keep your makeup plain and simple and always remember less is more. Be your own mixologist and find the best products to make your skin sing.

Hourglass Vanish foundation brush,

Estée Lauder Sensuous

£42, Harvey Nichols

Noir EDP 50ml, £52,

OPI Nail lacquer

Harvey Nichols

in Lincoln Park

Complete your look with this hard-wearing deep berry shade.

Foreo LUNA Go For

After Dark, £12.50, Harvey Nichols

Sensitive Skin, £85, Harvey Nichols Prada Candy Florale EDP, £30, Harvey Nichols

label.mThickening shampoo £12.95, TONI&GUY Wide plate straightener,

Essensuals

Bring your locks back to their former glory in no time with label.m’s rejuvenating mask.

£79.99, Nicky Clarke

Nars Eye paint in tartar,

Create the ultimate smoky eye with this highimpact pigment.

£18, Harvey Nichols

What’s

HOT NOW

Tom Ford Velvet Orchid EDP 50ml, £108, Harvey Nichols

Treat your sweet tooth with this season’s freshest beauty picks in delicious berry shades

Espa Energising shower gel, £21, Harvey Nichols

YSL Rouge Volute Shine 51, £26, Harvey Nichols

Elemis Sweet Orchid Monoi body oil 100ml, £35,

label.m Therapy rejuvenating mask £18.25, TONI&GUY Essensuals

Harvey Nichols

Opt for feminine scents of cool citrus, dramatic petals, honey and rum.

This gorgeous lipstick will give you an elegant autumnal look whilst locking moisture into your lips.

Lancôme Dreamtone serum 40ml, £69, EOS Organic lip balm in

Harvey Nichols

pomegranate, £7.50, Harvey Nichols

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

Words: Becky Weaver & Emily Smith

Miu Miu

Beauty Brief THE

Changing seasons and dull weather doesn’t have to mean a complexion to match. Turn to skin saviour Rodial and keep that glow going whatever the weather

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onnoisseur isn’t a term to be used lightly, so when we say it about Rodial, you know we mean it. Since launching in 1999 the luxury brand has gained an extensive celebrity following, and is stocked in more than 3,000 stores across 35 countries worldwide.

Every Rodial product is packed with world-class anti-aging and essential skincare ingredients, that give your skin a natural boost.

Our autumnal pick-me-up is Rodial’s new Bee Venom collection at Harvey Nichols. As we step into the colder months it’s perfect for a little skin TLC. Packed with moisture and its namesake, these products help give you a youthful lift and keep your skin on top form.

THE ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS 1. THE SKIN SAVER

4. THE EYE OPENER

A multi functioning, cleansing wonder. Apply a small amount of Bee Venom Cleansing Balm, £50 to the face, neck and eye area and then remove with a cleansing cloth to leave skin feeling rejuvenated.

The delicate combination of almond, jojoba and wheatgerm oils help to calm the skin while amino acids and salicylic acid help to improve the appearance of uneven skin tones.

Long day at the office? Banish those unwanted dark circles with this revolutionary Bee Venom Eye Cream, £115. It acts to eliminate the bags under your eyes whilst the bee venom and plant stem cells work to aid your skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye

2. GET A YOUTHFUL GLOW Revitalise and illuminate your skin with this plumping Bee Venom Super Serum, £160. Containing bio marine collagen 6 it helps to reduce wrinkles. This luxurious serum works in synergy with a unique complex of plant stem cell, helping to plump and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and aid your skin tone.

3. THE SUN PROTECTOR Apply this rejuvenating moisturiser to your face and neck after cleansing each day to help brighten your skin tone. This SPF30 Day Cream, £130 will help to keep your skin hydrated whilst working its magic on those fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a smooth, youthful complexion.

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5. THE HYDRATOR Like a facial in a pot, this intense advanced Bee Venom Moisturiser, £150 will revitalise and renew, giving you younger looking skin.

This silky smooth cream is an advanced formula that works to give naturally younger looking skin.

It contains plumping agents to smooth the appearance of fine lines, and hyaluronic acid for intensive hydration. Working in synergy with plant stem cells it gives skin a refreshed and youthful apperance.

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ACHIEVE IT! Visit Harvey

Nichols today and try out the latest Rodial range for yourself.

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Hair and Make-up by James Bushell Hair, Cover FX & EstĂŠe Lauder at Harvey Nichols

From fresh looking skin to bold berry lips, focus on the key areas of your face to create a flawless, understated look this season

Strobing is the word on everyones lips right now. Define structure and shape whilst adding a dewy glow by applying a small amount of highlighter along the cheek bone; blend outwards for a lustrous complexion.

Just because summer is over it doesn’t mean that your skin has to lose its radiance.

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Autumn is all about stripping back and staying natural. By adding a pop of colour to your cheeks with a hint of blusher, you’ll be catching everyone’s eye with a flawless natural glow.

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Timeless and elegant; berry and currant lips are back with a bang. Make yours the centre of attention and sculpt sumptous curves using a lip pencil.

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Keep the focus on your eyes by framing their shape.

Apply eyeliner to the waterline for definition, and add mascara to give your lashes that extra boost.

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GET THE LOOK 3

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Follow our step-by-step guide to stay effortless and understated this season.

All make-up available from Cover FX and Estée Lauder at Harvey Nichols 4

This look is all about keeping things simple and paying attention to your skin. Start by using the (1)Cover FX Liquid Foundation Brush, £32, apply the (2)Cover FX Mattifying BB Gel Anti-Blemish Treatment, £35, then, using your fingers dab a small amount of (3)Cover FX Enhancer Drops in Celestial, £34, onto your skin, swiping it across your cheekbones to create more dimension and definition on your face. This is a key product to use in order to keep your skin glowing and achieve a sun-kissed look.

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Using a (4)Cover FX Contour Brush, £34, apply the (5)Cover FX Enhancer Drops in Sunkissed, £34 to add a pop of colour to your cheeks. A small amount of blush will make your skin appear less washed out and help you to achieve a natural look, as well as sculpting the shape of your face and adding warmth to your complexion. The contour brush is fantastic to use for achieving this look as it works to evenly distribute the product, creating a flawless finish.

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This look is all about letting your lips do the talking. To keep your look autumnal you can never go wrong with a classic berry lip, which is always really popular this time of year. Start by creating a solid base for your lipstick; line the edge of your lips using the (6)Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-inPlace Lip Pencil in Brick, £18 to make your lips appear more crisp and defined. Fill the rest of your lips with the (7)Estée Lauder Pure Colour Envy Lipstick in Decadent, £25.50.

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With the lips taking centre stage it’s important that you still pay attention to your eyes. A wash of a neutral colour will bring out your eye colour, apply the darkest colour in the (8) Pure Color Envy Sculpting EyeShadow 5-Color Palette, £40 over your lid before lengthening your lashes using (9)Estée Lauder Sumptuous Knockout Mascara in black, £25. To really help define the shape of your eyes apply (10)Estée Lauder Pure Color Intense Kajal EyeLiner in Blackened Black, £17.

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN! Words: Ellen Atkinson

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Wild 80s hair is making a comeback with crimps and endless volume taking over the A/W16 catwalks

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eased hair was an 80s must and has now had a resurgence, especially with the styling of shorter hair.

Nicky Clarke’s Luxury Volume Package, £50, may be for you if you’re craving thick 80s hair that’s full of volume. The package includes (1)Nicky Clarke Volume Shampoo and Conditioner, (2)Nicky Clarke Hair Raising Lift, (3) Thicken and Shine Spray and (4)Nicky Clarke Tease Me spray which all work to provide you with luxurious bouncy hair.

For extra security use (5)Nicky Clarke’s Hold and Shine Ultimate Hairspray, £10, which is easily brushed out to ensure a painless transition from your 80s diva do at the end of the night.

Crimps are back!

However, with immense crimping comes dry, split ends due to the application of heat on the hair. Before using heat appliances spritz (6)TONI&GUY’s

High Temperature Heat Protection Mist, £6.39, over your hair to ensure that it’s protected and produces smooth crimps, rather than frazzled ends. The mist is not only great at protecting your hair from the harshness of heat but is also anti-static and therefore allows you to create salon-finished hair in the comfort of your own home.

Inject Volume 80s hair is all about volume, the bigger the better, but it’s important to use the best products to keep that moisture locked in. TONI&GUY Essensuals offer the most luxurious products that will help you to create the ultimate 80s look whilst keeping your hair on top form. Use (7)label.m Volume Foam, £13.95, to give your locks that extra boost. The lightweight and non-greasy foam will help increase the volume whilst protecting your hair from harmful UV rays.

TRY IT! James Bushell has now launched a new salon at Harvey Nichols.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10am-7pm; Sunday: 11am-5pm.

Booking is essential, contact the Harvey Nichols Beauty Lounge on 0121 616 6014.

HOW TO: BRAID LIKE A PRO With James Bushell Whether it’s for a special occasion or a more laidback look, braids are a perfect way to reinvent your style. James Bushell stylist, Kim Duong shares her tips on how to create the perfect plaits: • Use small bands, preferably the same colour as your hair.

• Separate your hair into three or four equal sections, depending on what type of braid you are planning. Ensure partings are straight and use hairspray to calm flyaway hairs before starting.

• Use a small amount of styling paste on your fingertips to get more grip and to minimise stray hairs. We love Baume Double Je’ Kerastase, £14. Spray any pins with hairspray so they will stay in place.

• For a more effortless look, leave a few strands out around the hairline.

• If your hair is slightly damp it will give you more tension when plaiting. It is also easier to braid hair that hasn’t been washed for a day or two.

• Once finished, pull your braids apart lightly to make them appear thicker and more fashionable. Finish with a good spritz of hairspray.

THE STYLE MEMO

Tom Ford

Most Wanted This Season Men’s fashion gets just as much attention as women’s, your appearance speaks a thousand words about your personality.

Trend pages are your bible to keeping your style on point and can help you create a sleek and sharp look this autumn. Minimalism and military trends are leading the way for men, so bear that in mind when you’re shopping for your winter coat.

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

THE EDIT New must-haves to keep you warm and stylish this autumn Words: Ellen Atkinson

The Coat

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Hugo Boss Khaki coat, £700

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Hugo Boss’s ‘Denny’ coat is stylish, versatile and on trend in a rich khaki. The coat offers a sleek styling with hidden drawstrings allowing for a snugger fit.

With a detachable hood and removable lining this versatile finishing touch it can be worn throughout the year, making it an essential addition to every man’s wardrobe, and ideal for the unpredictable autumnal weather.

2 Uniform Wares M37 watch, £250, Harvey Nichols

The Watch Make a statement with this stainless steel and leather watch from Uniform Collective. Minimalist and classic, this design is sure to make an impression in any situation. With a scratch-resistant screen and a buckle-fastening rubber strap, a durable piece which is perfect to take you through the colder months.

Hugo Boss Leather wallet £129

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The Leather Wallet Every man needs a sleek leather wallet. This Hugo Boss piece may be small but it certainly doesn’t skimp on detail, with the tone-on-tone top stitching creating a professional finish. With six card holder slots and two note departments, the wallet is modern and the perfect accessory for every day use. It’s available in dark red, dark blue and black, making it easy to match any outfit.

The Boot Raised panels at the heel and toe add a twist to the classic leather boot. The Italian leather produces a sleek finish, with a warm, fabric lining providing comfort and protection from the cooling temperatures. Pair with jeans and a jumper for a casual look or wear with trousers for a smart-casual vibe.

Hugo Boss Medium-

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high leather boots £300

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

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The Autumn Sweatshirt Keep cosy this autumn with this Whistles sweater. The stripes at the base of the knit tie in with one of the season’s top trends and add an extra touch to this timeless classic. A seasonal staple; its classic style and loose fit can be paired easily with any outfit for a simple laidback look, or team with a shirt and trousers for off-the-rail sophistication.

Paul Smith Fine-knit wool scarf, £125, Harvey Nichols

Whistles Sweatshirt, £65, Harvey Nichols

Tricker’s Leather brogues, £360, Harvey Nichols

The Smart Shoe These tan leather brogues from Tricker’s will not only last a lifetime, they’re also perfect for this season. Impeccably finished, they’re sleek and sophisticated and the rubber sole adds extra comfort so you can even wear them for work. A shining example of tradition, brogues can be paired easily with denim and formal wear and are sure to keep you looking professional and elegant whilst wearing them.

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The Scarf

This tonal contrast Paul Smith scarf incorporates alternate hues of blue and grey. Frayed edges bring a casual finish, it’s also made from 100% wool so is certain to keep you warm this season. The versatility of the scarf is down to its fineknit. Pair with a chunky knit jumper for an understated, casual look or for something more polished team with a suit or overcoat.

8 Armani Collezioni Cashmere hat, £150

The Knitwear Armani is set to keep you in style and warm this autumn with this 100% cashmere hat. The design is suitable for any man looking to combine both timeless style with practicality; finished with a brass logo detailing, this knitted hat is an essential for the unpredictable seasonal weather.

Keeping calm and collected on the morning commute has never been so easy.

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Tommy Hilfiger Wool fitted suit, £395

Suited & Booted Impress in this grey, fitted suit by Tommy Hilfiger. Made from 100% virgin wool, the suit is finished with button detailing and French pockets, which help to create a sophisticated and professional silhouette, making it the perfect choice for any man wanting to turn heads in the office.

Givenchy Grained leather briefcase, £1500, Harvey Nichols

The Briefcase This sleek, black leather briefcase is an essential addition to any work outfit. With an adjustable shoulder strap, the versatile styling allows for multiple ways of carrying your work essentials.

The briefcase has internal zipped pockets to secure laptops and phones whilst travelling, making a stylish and practical must-have.

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LAYER ABOVE THE REST Keeping warm at this time of year doesn’t mean your style has to suffer, layer up to stay on topform. These staple outfits will have you looking sharp no matter what Mother Nature throws at you

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Win at winter by layering your puffer jacket over knitwear Jacket, £490, shirt, £115, jumper £130. All from Armani Jeans

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Work the offduty look by ditching the tie and make your suit jacket suitable for all hours Turtleneck, £350, dress belt, £225, umbrella, £64, pocket square, £55, suit £895. All from Gieves & Hawkes

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Introduce texture to your layers to create more depth A.P.C, Coat, £435, Solid Homme, crewneck £315, Balenciaga, shirt £205.

All from Harvey Nichols

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Crack the autumnal dress code with a smart jacket and scarf Jumper, £129, coat, £480, scarf, £69. All from Boss

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Paul Smith

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HOW TO WEAR

PINK Words: Ellen Atkinson

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Who says pink is just for girls? Embrace this season’s trend and brighten up the darkest of autumn days with this perky palette. Make an impact with bright colour block pieces or add more subtle accents to your autumnal wardrobe with silk ties to embrace the trend.

Pinks can be incorporated into any situation, with pastel shirts adding a touch of class to formal outfits and bold and bright jumpers creating the perfect laid-back look.

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1.Gieves & Hawkes Classic pink cotton shirt, £125, 2.Gieves & Hawkes Pink cotton twill slim fit chino, £70, 3.Ralph Lauren Linen shirt £120, Harvey Nichols, 4.BOSS Golf polo shirt, £89, Hugo Boss, 5.Paul Smith Pink merino wool and silk blend jumper, £230, Harvey Nichols, 6.BOSS Polka-dot-pattern Silk Tie, £65, Hugo Boss 7.Shutterheim Stockholm light pink rubberised raincoat, £180, Harvey Nichols, 8.BOSS Leather trainers, Boss, £179 Hugo Boss

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

Balmain

GET IN LINE From trench coats to knitwear, military is here to stay, with green and dark blues trooping the men’s A/W16 catwalks.

Our report is sure to make you a sartorial success

Valentino

Caseley Hayford

Raf Simons

Dries Van Noten

Balmain

Detailing

Balmain x H&M

Dries Van Noten

Burrberry Dries Van Noten

Jil Sander

Junya Watanabe

Dries Van Noten

Valentino Balmain Dries Van Noten

Balmain xH&M

Christopher Raeburn

This season, military styling is taking centre stage. From this year’s A/W16 fashion shows, designers such as Balmain and Burberry have demonstrated how to rock this trend with dark hues, tailored styles and heavy buttoning.

Keep the look sophisticated and clean by wearing the same colour head to toe or break it up and opt for a more casual look with a camel coloured coat and darker trousers.

Caseley Hayford

A/W16

Three simple styles dominated the A/W16 catwalks at the beginning of the year. Fringes become incredibly diverse; either keep it blunt or make it sleek by sweeping your fringe to the side.

Rock the military look with the classic buzz cut.

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Balmain

Dries Van Noten

Caseley Hayford

Words: Emily Smith

NEW SEASON NEW STYLE

@ GIEVESLONDON

MY MAILBOX Max Harvey, Store Manager at Gieves & Hawkes, talks style evolution and looking effortless Gieves & Hawkes is all about premium luxury, making it the perfect fit for the Mailbox. My job is to represent the brand, set high standards and ensure the store looks beautiful. My morning starts with meetings and checking that the staff are prepared for the day. As soon as a client walks through the door, the most important thing is to make sure that they receive a luxury experience.

Being based in the Mailbox has some great benefits. We are a destination, surrounded by other great retailers.

Having a slower paced, relaxed environment makes customers feel at ease whenever they visit especially when you have all the great restaurants at the back. It’s a special destination for anyone living in or visiting Birmingham.

I enjoy meeting a variety of customers. Our clients are very knowledgeable and most of them know exactly what they want as they have been buying our suits for years.

Other times, we see a man looking for his wedding suit who has never had a tailoring experience before. I love

styling those types of clients because you get to see their reaction when they have found ‘the’ wedding suit - a big moment for any man.

I’ve always worked in luxury fashion and been in the Mailbox for 14 years.

When I saw the Gieves & Hawkes job I knew I had to apply as it’s a Savile Row company with three royal warrants - a rare opportunity in Birmingham!

I love the brand’s British heritage, it epitomises quality - the focus on the structure of the suit, tailoring and choice of fabrics.

The Mailbox is definitely different to other places in Birmingham. I love being surrounded by our neighbours such as Harvey Nichols especially as it’s one of the nicest stores. Gieves & Hawkes is also one of the very few mens only clothing shops where you can come and get a made-to-measure suit. It means there are items here that you can’t get anywhere else in the city, and our new casual lines make the brand even more accessible for those who haven’t shopped with us before.

The brand is viewed as a traditional classic but it has evolved over the last three years. I would now think that the older gentlemen could shop here with his son - that’s definitely the biggest change.

The lifestyle side of the brand is a lot more fashion-focused now and we’re industry leaders.

Four years ago, I don’t think clients would have looked at us in that way.

My favourite pieces in my wardrobe are my leather jackets, I have some lovely styles. Leather is timeless and a good quality jacket will last you a lifetime – it’s something that you can bring out again and again, adapting to different outfits.

My personal style is classic and simple. The cut and the fit of clothes talks volumes about your style, and it doesn’t have to be loud or brash to reflect good quality or high fashion.

I like to be understated with the detailing on my ties and cufflinks, and always match my belt to my shoes. As you get older, you get more experienced about the finer details. I’m 40 now but I still like to look fashionable without looking like I’m trying too hard – I like to look effortless. At the weekend, I like going to the bars and restaurants at the back of the Mailbox. Aluna is a personal favourite. You’ll find me in a simple pair of jeans and a white T-shirt with a pair of sharp trainers. Getting the perfect fit and focusing on quality is always really important to me.

My favourite trends for A/W16 are checks and country tweeds but in a more modern variation. I like a subtle check suit; one that you can style with a polka dot tie or a mix of patterns. Right now my key piece is a check Gieves & Hawkes jacket. You can wear it with chinos, jeans or smarten it up with a tie, shirt and waistcoat.

WEAR IT! Visit Gieves &

Hawkes on Level 2 and experience its new A/W16 collection.

MAILBOXLIFE.COM

Monroe The Skin Saviour

THE NEW ESSENTIALS We’ve rounded up the best new season must-have brands from Harvey Nichols to keep you looking (and smelling) your best 64

Matte hair clay, 600ml, £16, moisturiser and shave balm SPF20, 100ml, £40, cleanse and shave solution, 100ml, £37, No.4 cologne 30ml, £42 or 100ml, £79. All products Monroe

EDT, 100ml, £125, deodorant 75ml, £32, aftershave balm, 100ml, £36. All products Eight & Bob

Eight & Bob The Modern Scent MAILBOXLIFE.COM

Czech & Speake Cutting It Close No.88 shave set & stand, £310, No.88 shave soap, £21, 8 piece manicure set: stone & black, £348. All products Czech & Speake

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THE LIFESTYLE MEMO

David Griffen for Tom’s Kitchen

Embrace Change In an environment that is ever changing it’s always exciting to welcome new additions to the Mailbox.

Get to know the new brands that have already settled in, and take a peek at what’s to come over the months ahead. You won’t be short of things to do this season, from bottomless brunches at Harvey Nichols, to West End shows at Everyman Cinema, there’s plenty to keep you occupied, so embrace and enjoy.

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LIFE NEWS Words: Laura Bradnick & Emily Smith

A Taste of London We’re delighted that Michelin starred chef Tom Aikens is opening up a brand new Tom’s Kitchen and Deli in the Urban Room. Tom has venues across London, as well as one in Istanbul, but has chosen to branch out into Birmingham the first Tom’s Kitchen to open in the UK outside of capital. An amazing addition to the Mailbox, Tom’s Kitchen is due to open at the end of the year. Read our interview with Tom on page 72.

Autumn Blockbusters at Everyman Cinema You can never go wrong with a visit to the cinema - it’s even better when you can watch the film sitting on a lush sofa with food and drinks delivered.

This autumn you can catch a number of blockbuster movies at Everyman Cinema; from dark thrillers including The Girl on the Train to live broadcasts of shows from the West End. This November jump back into the wizarding world with the release of J.K. Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. For full listings visit everymancinema.com.

A Work of Art Reinvent your home this autumn with the incredible new season collection from Castle Fine Art. A bold, bright collection of contemporary art spanning the entire artistic spectrum, from landscape to cityscape, figurative portraiture to wildlife art. Packed with vibrant colours and bold brushstrokes, we’re sure that you’ll find something to brighten up your home within this eclectic body of work.

Bottomless Fizz Harvey Nichols

Christmas at Café Rouge After the success of its summer menu, Café Rouge has now launched its Christmas Party, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve menus. It seems early to be telling you about the succulent Turkey Paupiette, slow cooked duck and roast chicken suprême, but with bookings already rolling in, we wouldn’t want you to miss out! Head to caferouge.com to book your table.

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Sundays just got a lot more exciting with Harvey Nichols launching a new bottomless Champagne brunch. We all need a bit of a pick me up when the end of the weekend hits, and this amazing brunch is bound to fix you right up! You get a choice of three delicious courses, including Scottish porridge oats with lavender honey, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs and devilled sardines on toast. To top it all off you can wash down these delicious dishes with an unlimited amount of Harvey Nichols Champagne. The Bottomless Champagne Brunch costs £50 per person and children can dine with their parents for £15 with soft drinks included in this. This spectacular offer will be available every Sunday over the coming months, so make sure you take advantage and book a table today.

SIMPLICITY MEETS SOPHISTICATION After branching out from its Spanish roots and settling into its new home, we went to see what the new AC hotel Birmingham has to offer

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@ACHOTELBIRM

O

ne of the UK’s first AC Hotels opened earlier this year, introducing the concept of contemporary design with an authentic twist to the Birmingham hotel scene. AC Hotels is a design-led lifestyle brand that combines sophisticated, European style with a luxurious feel. The brand aims to focus on the “essentials of a beautiful stay”, taking inspiration from Spanish culture and swapping traditional touches such as room service for the convenience of quick snacks or small plates in its stylish bars.

Spanish Roots

AC Hotels was created from the vision of Antonio Catalan. Founded in 1988, it grew rapidly in Spain before partnering with Marriott International in 2011, which took the brand further across Europe and to the U.S. Each hotel embodies the brand’s originality, and tastefully adds a sense of local authenticity.

AC’s unique selling point comes in the removal of all unnecessary components of a hotel stay, leaving each guest with a refined experience providing only the essentials.

A key player in the city’s hotel scene, the Mailbox 70

is already home to the glamorous Malmaison, which has gained a respectable reputation over the years with their stylish and plush interiors. The new AC Hotel is taking a step forward with its slick interior, whilst maintaining a true elegance its sure to win over city break lovers and business workers alike with its original brand of european simplicity.

A New Home

Located at the canal-side of the Mailbox, the hotel is a superb choice for both business visitors and shoppers. With alfresco dining to designer shopping at the heart of the

MAILBOX IS THE PERFECT FIT FOR AC HOTELS, AND REFLECTS THE VIBRANCY THAT THE CITY IS EXPERIENCING RIGHT NOW James Thomlinson, General Manager

A LUXURIOUS GETAWAY AC Hotels has built up a fashionable reputation worldwide, and better still, each hotel is set in an accessible, picturesque location which make sightseeing and city adventures that little bit easier.

Clockwise from top: The library, a double room the lounge and main entrance at AC Hotel

Madrid Flight time: 2 hr 20 • Price: From £25 one way The beautiful Parque del Retiro in Madrid provides unmissable views of the city’s most famous gardens and fountains, with the beautiful Palacio de Cristal and the Statue of the Fallen Angel within touching distance. Nearby is the AC Santo Mauro, an Autograph Collection hotel. Being a boutique hotel means that the stereotypical design of the AC Hotel is contrasted with bold feature rooms. The Chinese Lounge incorporates pastel shades with striking prints in its artistic setting. Situated in the heart of Madrid, guests are surrounded by both Spanish culture and popular tourist attractions.

STAY THERE! Want to book a stay at AC Hotels Birmingham? Just head to AChotels.marriott.com/birmingham

Mailbox, a stay here is sure to be unforgettable. Alternatively, guests can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to a world full of luxury and excitement. The AC Lounge is the ideal place to connect with co-workers in meetings, or create the ideal setting for a workspace.

Then as the sun goes down, the AC Lounge transforms into a relaxing, social area serving Spanish wines, local beers, signature cocktails, and tapasstyle small plates.

The New Modern

Walking through the hotel, the AC’s ‘New Modern’ design shines throughout. From the corrugated walls in the top-of-the-range fitness centre, to the sculpted

walnut seating in the AC Library, it’s suited for peaceful social gatherings and business meetings alike. Complimentary Wi-fi also runs throughout the entire hotel, so you can keep up to date with emails, as well as utilising the convenience of the mobile check-in and check-out service.

The 90 rooms are timelessly furnished, each complete with a hypnos bed, coffee machine and flat screen TV. The sleek decor creates the relaxing atmosphere for guests to unwind, with clean lines and a neutral palette establishing a sense of space. Furniture is given the illusion of being lifted from the ground to add to the contemporary, open plan design of the rooms, which calm and enrich the guest experience.

Malaga Flight time: 2 hr 40 • Price: From £30 one way In a city of contemporary bars and restaurants juxtaposed with historic landmarks on the same street, AC Hotel Malaga Palacio lies in an iconic location; between the Malaga Cathedral and the Paseo del Parque. The hotel offers spectacular views of the port, and caters to the needs of both business and leisure guests by being just a short distance from the airport and railway station. The neutral shades which run through the hotel give a sleek, classic look, with a pop of hot pink added into the lobby’s colour scheme to make a standout statement.

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David Griffen

IN THE KITCHEN A

t 26, Tom Aikens became the youngest chef to win two Michelin stars, earning him a highly respectable reputation led him to open restaurants across London, a flagship in Istanbul and now, a restaurant in the Mailbox. The first restaurant that Tom’s opened outside the capital.

We’re keen to know what drew him to branch out in to the city. “I’d been looking for quite some time at opening a restaurant outside of London. You face a lot of challenges when you move out of an environment that you’re comfortable in, but Birmingham really stood out for us,” Tom says.

“We had been looking at statistics of other cities across the UK, but we

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Ahead of Tom’s Kitchen opening in the Urban Room this winter, we talk to Tom Aikens about why he chose Birmingham as his first UK venue outside of London and what the new dining experience will bring to the Mailbox

just felt that the demographic of the people within Birmingham was really good. It’s a foodie city with the quality of the restaurants and chefs already here. Birmingham really focuses on people dining out as well, it just seemed to hit all of our criteria.”

Birmingham should feel proud, with the city already home to numerous spectacular restaurants including Harvey Nichols and Gas Street Social - to name a few - the arrival of Tom’s Kitchen is another string for the city to add to its culinary bow.

“We’ve worked on branching out across the UK ever since we first opened in the first Tom’s Kitchen in 2006. There are challenges to open a new restaurant, recruiting

Photos by: David Griffen

@TOMSKITCHENS

‘IT HAS A LOT OF POTENTIAL FOR US TO REACH OUT TO DINERS ACROSS THE CITY’

David Griffen

is a challenge and we’re looking to hire some great people to come and work with us. I’ll be at the restaurant a lot as well as my team to make sure everyone is happy.”

So, what drew Tom to the Urban Room? There are many places within the city that he could’ve picked to house his first flagship outside the capital. “Being in the lovely environment of the Mailbox itself was important to us. It’s a great location, beautifully designed inside, and being next to Harvey Nichols also makes it the perfect spot to be in,” Tom says. “It’s not far from the station, it’s also very close to the main transport systems, and a good hub as part of the city. You’ve also got great shoppers, businesses, apartments and hotels.”

“We’re really looking forward to moving up to Birmingham, and really excited about this opportunity as it’s our first one outside of London. It has a lot of potential for us to reach out to diners across the city.”

With restaurants in Chelsea, St. Katharine Docks, the HMS Belfast, Canary Wharf and Somerset House, Tom’s Kitchen is very well known in the capital. Each restaurant oozes luxury contemporary design, but maintains a very relaxed, laid-back atmosphere that Tom plans to carry over to his Birmingham flagship.

“Tom’s Kitchen in the Urban Room is

similar to our place at St. Katharine Docks, it’s a simple format.

Tom says. “We aim to create a happy experience with the food, the ambiance is very causal, informal. We cater from large groups of people to young children, welcoming anyone that follows the ethos, our doors are open to everyone.”

The menu also reflects Tom’s approach to relaxed dining. Raised in a small village in Norfolk, baking with his mother and cooking family meals from a young age, the dishes at Tom’s Kitchen are all about delicious comfort food. “We try to have something for everyone on the menus, with staples such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, to sharing dishes, or simple foods like macaroni and cheese, burgers and steak. We do daily specials as well where our chefs are a bit more creative, although they still focus on using local produce.”

“We offer sandwiches, soup and some hot meals that you can take away with you or eat in-house. All of our produce comes from local suppliers and everything is made fresh in our kitchen, from our own cookies, to breakfast pastries and teas and coffees.

“The menu changes every few months, and the daily specials too. We try to create dishes not just for special occasions, but meals that may make diners come once or maybe three times a week.They might come for lunch with a large group of friends, or stay there all night - we’re happy as long as they enjoy the experience.”

TRY IT! Tom’s Kitchen will open on level

2 this December. For more information visit tomskitchen.co.uk

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AUTUMN DISHES From comforting fish stews to succulent paprika chicken, enjoy this seasons most delicious dishes

Harvey Nichols, Paprika Spiced Chicken, ÂŁ14 Taken from the autumn menu this succulent chicken breast with spiced crispy skin is utterly divine.

Perfectly complimented by oyster mushrooms and a smooth basil and watercress puree, which add to the elegance of the beautifully balanced dish. We love the addition of the fried polenta which creates a stunning layer of textures. If you’re a big fan of vegetarian food then we recommend you treat yourself to the luxurious Roasted squash salad. Served with creamy Tallegio cheese and crunchy hazelnuts, this indulgent, warm salad, which can be ordered as a starter or main, is certainly a highlight of the menu.

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Gourmet Burger Kitchen, The Don, £9.95, House Onion Rings, £3.55 If you’re looking to indulge then we suggest that you head to Gourmet Burger Kitchen and get your hands on The Don. This mouth-watering patty is cooked medium and packed with American cheese, gorgonzola, onion jam, house mayo, rocket and our favourite element, baconnaise - which tastes every bit as good as it sounds. This burger is fantastic for those who like a bit of spice, the rocket is a great addition that gives an extra hit of pepper flavour to your palate, which is balanced out with the rest of the dish. If you really want to spoil yourself, we recommend ordering a side of house onion rings, which are ideal for sharing.

Café Rouge, Confit De Canard, £14.75 Café Rouge has certainly embraced the autumnal weather with their beautifully cooked duck.

The rich flavours that run though the confit Brittany duck leg, accompanied by either rich cherry or a zingy orange sauce, is guaranteed to warm you up. We loved the addition of a side of creamy Dauphinoise potatoes and French beans, which really help bring this dish to life. For those who want to opt for something a little different, Café Rouge offers a number of fish dishes and salads, suitable for any diner.

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Aluna, Thai Green Curry with Chicken or Vegetables, £12.95 You can never go wrong with a good curry and Aluna certainly knows how to satisfy its customers that enjoy some heat when dining out. Aluna’s Thai Green Chicken Curry is packed with flavour and delicately spiced; hints of fresh chilli run throughout the smooth sauce, but the spice doesn’t override the sweet hints of basil, coconut milk and aubergines. This house special dish is served in a deep bowl and is packed with succulent strips of chicken - you can swap chicken for fresh vegetables if you prefer - and is accompanied by a generous helping of steamed rice.

Côte Brasserie, Breton Fish Stew, £13.95 When the colder months start to roll in there’s nothing better to warm you up than a beautiful stew. We couldn’t get enough of Breton Fish Stew at Côte Brasserie. Packed with sea bass, mussels, clams, prawns and squid with tomato, white wine and chilli, it’s the comfort food dish that you need to try this season. If you don’t fancy fish then we recommend the Roasted Pork Belly, £13.50. A generous cut of meat which is pan roasted, simply melts in your mouth and is, in our opinion, the star of the menu. Served with gratin potato, braised savoy cabbage, apples and a thyme and calvados jus, this meal is an absolute knock-out.

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Gas Street Social, Seafood En Papillote, £15.50 There’s nothing better than tucking into a delicate fish dish, and Gas Street Social’s Seafood En Papillote certainly delivers. The seafood is steamed inside a bag packed with British coastal cod, Scottish salmon, king prawns, and roasted red tomatoes, in a garlic butter and white wine sauce. When you open the package your senses are filled with spectacular smells that make you want to immediately dig in. The addition of crispy, fluffy fries on the side is a delicious accompaniment adding a contrast of texture to the soft fish.

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WELCOME HOME BIRMINGHAM 78

Having been around for more than two decades, Kitchen Gallery has been redefining one of the most important areas in the modern day home

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A TRULY UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

ocated on level one of the Mailbox, the stunning flagship showroom, which opened in June, has been created in collaboration with German manufacturers SieMatic boasting the first ever private apartment style VIP design room, where customers can relax while viewing three of the brand’s best lifestyle collections: Urban, Pure and Classic.

As well as the kitchens on offer, luxury appliance brands such as Gaggenau and Siemens are featured alongside furniture designed by the world-renowned designer, Walter Knoll - a first for any studio based outside of London. Keen to stand apart from the competition, Kitchen Gallery also plan to host future events such as cookery classes, demonstrations and wine tasting sessions outside of retail hours.

Kitchen Gallery is well known for providing its customers with an outstanding experience when it comes to designing a bespoke living space. The dedicated design team will assist you every step of the way suggesting recommendations and providing realistic visualisations of your future kitchen using state of the art technology. Finally when it comes to fitting your kitchen they’ll ensure that every aspect of the finished product has met not only your standards, but theirs too.

Gone are the days where kitchens were just seen as a place to cook and eat, from family dinners to lavish parties kitchens have evolved into the hardest working and most sociable room of the house. Kitchen Gallery can create a space for anyone no matter what your age or style preference.

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The

Minimalist

The Heart of The Home Kalun Law from Kitchen Gallery shares his design inspiration and tips to achieving the perfect multi-function space.

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our kitchen is a reflection of your personality, whether you’re an entertainer or like to make the most of the space that you have to play with, it’s important that you take the time to craft your kitchen right down to the finest details.

There are many different directions you can take the design of your kitchen, if you’re all about keeping it sleek and simple then a minimalist look is the route you need to go down. White is the perfect choice as a dominant colour palette; pair it with black, grey or even a dark oak to create a fresh and open space.

When it comes to creating a minimalistic look keep in mind that less is definitely more, but don’t be afraid to maximise your wall space and introduce shelving to add

an extra dynamic. Floating shelves are a great addition, accessorise them with glassware, prints, greenery and cooking books to add style and individuality. Accessories such as copper vases and terrariums are very on trend, and a clever way to introduce a little greenery into your kitchen.

If you want to keep your sleek and streamlined surfaces clutter-free then it’s a good idea to integrate hidden multi-storage units wherever you can.

Kitchen Gallery offers an incredible array of hidden storage units and the team will work with you to make the most of the space that you have, so you can keep your kitchen looking smart at all times.

Utilising your kitchen space is also really vital if you’re a popular party host. The minimalist style works

Integrate hidden multi-storage to keep surfaces clutter-free 80

perfectly for dinner parties, and introducing darker colours can look really effective. Black, grey and wood can add a really dramatic effect to your kitchen and create a great space for you to accessorise with metallic and bronze colours. If you’re feeling creative, a chalk wall is an interesting element — display your wine selection, shopping list, calendar or even the menu selection for your guests. An island is also a core unit to introduce into your kitchen. Add some bar stools to create the perfect cocktail area.

Entertainers should always consider furniture, choosing the right shape and size of dining table

@KG_SIEMATIC

A Classic Look The Entertainer

can make or break your space.

Consider things such as how often you’re planning to entertain and the shape of the space you’re trying to fill before buying.

Whilst the minimal look works great for entertainers, you can’t go wrong with a classic look either. If you’re style is much more traditional then a classical design is guaranteed to work for you. Whether you’re looking for a chic or a warm and welcoming look, classic designs allow you to step away from the bold colours and streamlined designs that come with minimalistic kitchens. Introducing greys, blues and patterns will allow you to build your kitchen around your personality.

The main focus of a classic look is to create the homely feel without comprising on style. Don’t hold back

olour lash of C p S A from playing with storage. Expose what’s hiding in your kitchen — glass cabinets are a great way to do this. A combination of chrome and copper is a chic addition to a traditional kitchen, whilst textures such as wicker baskets are perfect for attractive visible storage.

If you have a bright personality then adding a splash of colour to your kitchen can help showcase that.

If your kitchen is flooded with light introducing colour will ensure you make the most of it. If you want to make your kitchen look a lot more spacious then focusing a single, bold colour in one area is a great way to

trick the eye into thinking that the space is bigger.

Some people find bold colour quite intimidating in small spaces so introducing small accents of colours on to units and through accessories is an effective way to add colour into a kitchen without it being too intrusive to the space. Keeping the colour natural works well, bowls of fresh fruit look great against a white background and you can even tie the fruit in with the seasons.

Whatever your tastes, Kitchen Gallery can help you create the spectacular kitchen that you’ve always dreamed of.

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DIRECTORY DINING

LEISURE

STAY

ALUNA

ARMANI COLLEZIONI

MALMAISON

BAR ESTILO

BBC TOURS

AC HOTEL

CAFÉ ROUGE

BBC PUBLIC SPACE 0121 567 6767

PAMPER

CHEZ MAL

BOSS

LE PETIT SPA AT MALMAISON

CÔTE BRASSERIE

CASTLE FINE ART

GAS STREET SOCIAL

CALVIN KLEIN UNDERWEAR

0121 633 9987 0121 643 3443 0121 665 6437 0121 246 5001 0121 631 1587

0121 643 0362

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GOURMET BURGER KITCHEN 0121 643 0131 0121 633 8564 CLOUDO KIDS

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NICKY CLARKE 0121 633 4009

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DANIEL FOOTWEAR

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MILLER AND CARTER

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NANDOS

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HARVEY NICHOLS 0121 616 6000

OPENING HOURS

PIZZA EXPRESS

H20 CAR VALETING

Standard store opening hours are below but individual stores may vary.

RED PEPPERS

JAEGER

STRADA

KITCHEN GALLERY

Monday – Saturday 10am – 7pm Sunday 11am – 5pm

ZIZZI

L.K.BENNETT

Bars & Restaurants Opening Hours.

Monday – Sunday 10am – Late

PAUL SMITH

Harvey Nichols Bar & Restaurant Sunday 11am – Late

0121 643 7738 0121 643 5123 0121 632 1460

0121 643 4016

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0845 0177 701

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TESCO EXPRESS 0121 695 9540

TOMMY HILFIGER 0121 643 8060

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JAMES BUSHELL HAIR SALON*

0121 616 6021

*Beauty services at Harvey Nichols