Style Birmingham Issue 38 by Style Birmingham

APRIL 2014 ISSUE 38 £2.95 WHERE SOLD

HARVEY NICHOLS at THE MAILBOX SPRING LOOKS YOU’LL LOVE TURN TO PAGE 18 NOW!

STYLE WITH 007 Michael Kors Style meets the legendary American fashion designer 012 Philip Armstrong the kings of British glamour come to Harvey Nichols

014 Style chart time for a few new goodies, starting right here

015 Easter at The Fort need a few ideas for Easter gifts?

016 Competition your chance to win with Pavilions

ISSUE 38 p u b l i s h e d b y Publishing Ink Ltd. m a nag i n g d i r e c t o r Andrew Riley

018 Spring edit the luxe labels at Harvey Nichols in The Mailbox are on every stylista’s wishlist

STYLE FOR WOMEN 022 Fashion news welcome to serious spring style, from pastels to pretty totes

sa l e s m a nag e r Vanessa Allan e d i t o r Sarah Drew Jones CONTRIBUTORS

Philip Ellis Lucy Kite Sarah Morris Lizzy Gardner Isabella Silvers Tara Tomes Abbey Hartley Celia Palmer d e s i g n Mike Raven, Damian Bennett

025 Spring break fashion takes its cue from sun-drenched Morocco 028 Label we love Jack Wills is where preppy flair meets summer festival, with a dash of sheer class 030 Lucy loves... yogawear Yoga fan Lucy picks her favourite workout gear

031 Rose glow shades of rose gold are key this season, on accessories and jewels

p u b l i s h i n g i n k l t d. fifth floor white house 111 new street birmingham b2 4eu

STYLE FOR BEAUTY 034 Beauty news we love the new spring

e m a i l info@publishingink.co.uk t e l e p h o n e +44(0) 121 631 6101

publishingink.co.uk stylebirminghamMAG.com facebook.com/StyleBirminghamMagazine twitter.com/stylebhammag

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.

FRONT COVER: Cashmere top, £295, By Malene Birger, skirt, £150, Pinko, shoes, £370, Saint Laurent Paris, disc ring, £45, DKNY, all available at Harvey Nichols in The Mailbox

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fragrances and lip colours: time for a treat?

036 Hair clinic the experts at Royston Blythe answer your haircare questions 037 Pretty in pink Flattering and youthful, rose pink is spring’s loveliest beauty story

“If you were to ask me what I wIsh I had Invented In fashIon, It would be the whIte shIrt. to me, a shIrt Is the basIs for everythIng. everythIng else comes afterwards.” karl lagerfeld

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STYLE FOR MEN 040 Style news from camo footwear to cutting-edge timepieces, this is your spring wardrobe

042 Grey dawn hottest colour on the men’s runways this spring? Coolest grey 044 NEW! Travel Read our fabulous new travel section: news, views, reviews and recommendations

045 New York Sarah Drew Jones visits the city that never sleeps 046 Rome try a spring weekend in beautiful Roma, jewel in Italy’s crown

STYLE SOCIAL 048 Birmingham’s time our city has never been cooler, argues Tara Tomes 050 Capital’s Dan Kelly the breakfast show presenter picks his ‘90s classics

052 West Side Story the timeless musical comes to Birmingham and we meet its stars

053 Style meets…Chris Ramsey the controversial comedian on how to win friends and offend people

054 Style meets Lisa Faulkner the MasterChef winner cooks up a storm in the city

056 Food and drink news we’ve got the perfect recipes for Easter…and chocolate eggs galore! 058 News roundup stuck for weekend ideas? Not any more…

063 What’s on book now for these great gigs, shows, musicals, exhibitions and more 066 Competition your chance to win big this spring

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P U R E T R E AT M E N T O I L | T H E U LT I M AT E H A I R R E STO R I N G E L I X I R

FA B U LO U S LY D E CA D E N T H A I R CA R E WW W. S H OW B E AU T Y. C O M

SPORTY SEXY GLAM Fav e d e s ig ner of A-li ster s from Hei di Klum to Mic h e lle Obama, legendary desi gner Mi cha e l Kors gi ves a r ar e i ntervi ew to Style B irming h am, to talk i nspi r ati on, beauty and the s e cr ets of ti meless style issue 38

STYLE EXCLUSIVE

He’s the king of the sexy glamazon look, dresses the likes of Charlize Theron, Jessica Alba and Jennifer Lopez, is best mates with Gwyneth Paltrow, and has been called ‘the ultimate American designer’. Michael Kors, now celebrating his 33rd year in the fashion business, is a fashion legend. He’s most famous for a sporty, jet-set aesthetic, filling his campaigns with golden-limbed models running on beaches, boarding private planes, riding HarleyDavidsons across the desert and reclining on super-yachts.

Michael Kors SS14

Kors’ clothes are a masterclass in curve-loving, classic tailoring, made in soft fabrics in a palette of gold, azure, coral, red and white. He’s dressed Jennifer Garner for the Oscars, Alicia Keys for her stadium tours and Michelle Obama wore a Michael Kors LBD for her official portrait as First Lady.

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In January this year, influential Forbes magazine named Kors as the latest fashion billionaire, cementing a stellar career that’s taken in television, charity work and the must-see show of New York Fashion Week each season. Though Kors has several ready-to-wear lines as well as his couture collection, it’s his gorgeous accessories that

are most accessible. An MK handbag, pair of sandals or piece of jewellery are the perfect timeless classics, worth an investment or two: find them in Birmingham in Harvey Nichols, Selfridges and House of Fraser. This spring, Michael launches a glamorous new beauty collection, including three fragrances, a suncare and bodycare line and a makeup collection split into three categories: Sporty, Sexy and Glam, each with its own palette of wearable, elegant, womanly colours. Here, he reveals the story behind his new beauty collection, and talks us through three key fashion looks to match the mood of each of the new makeup ranges. What inspired you for the new spring/summer beauty collection? My inspiration comes from the women in my life. I’ve always been interested in their layers. For instance, my mom was usually sporty. She always had a suntan and she never spent more than two minutes on her makeup before she was out the door. My grandmother was a bit glam. She was an indulgent fragrance user. It was always in her bath, on her wrists, behind her ears. The collection is more than a trend. It’s about mood. For me, the Michael Kors woman has three main moods: sporty, sexy and glam. Sometimes you want to feel sporty and effortless, sometimes you want to be glamorous and indulgent, and sometimes you want to be unabashedly sexy. Most women have all three inside of them. And sometimes they turn the volume up or down on one of those three elements, depending on the mood or the moment.

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STYLE EXCLUSIVE

golden girl Michael Kors’ new beauty line is all about his love of the all-over dewy, sunkissed look. A healthy glow, and plenty of confidence: both signature Kors looks. At the heart of this collection are three fragrances, each representing one of the three facets of the Michael Kors woman: SPORTY, a citrus scent with notes of white florals, SEXY, with top notes of amber and musk, and GLAM, bursting with jasmine. From £38. There is also a makeup collection to complement each fragrance, with lipsticks (£23), lip glosses (£21), nail lacquers (£15) and bronzers (£34) in a range of classic shades.

Find the Michael Kors fragrance collection at House of Fraser Birmingham, and makeup and suncare online at houseoffraser.co.uk

Michael Kors SS14

The Body Collection boasts an Indulgent Body Creme (£39), Shimmer Bath Beads (£31) and gorgeous Liquid Shimmer Dry Oil Spray (£39) all infused with the Michael Kors fragrances. We love the new Sun Collection, which includes an aftersun and protective lip balm: check out the Liquitan Self Tanner (£18) with its subtle sandalwood scent and instant colour.

instant classic

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STYLE EXCLUSIVE

This beauty collection truly represents the DNA of your brand. How does it relate to your approach to fashion? I think about beauty and colour the same way that I think about fashion. It’s about a heightened sense of reality, being the best version of yourself. This requires a collection of essentials. With a wardrobe, it’s a great black dress, a classic trench coat and jeans that make your figure look amazing. With makeup, you need a healthy nude, a bold pink and a timeless red. The collection is super versatile because it’s customisable: and it will never go out of style. What does sporty beauty mean to you?

“BEAUTY IS ABOUT A HEIGHTENED SENSE OF REALITY, BEING THE BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF” You’ve added sun products to your range… The real foundation of beauty is healthy, glowing skin, no matter where a woman falls on the mood spectrum. That glow may take on different hues, but it always sends the same message. It always equals a life well lived. Your most important beauty tip?

There’s something about a woman who is active and a part of the world. She pulls her hair loosely into a ponytail, whether she is playing tennis, walking the red carpet or at the office. It’s a relaxed yet colourful approach to living. I think of women like Gwyneth Paltrow pulling their hair into a simple ponytail on the red carpet. It’s all about ease.

Makeup should not be a mask. The SPORTY SEXY GLAM woman exudes an easy, carefree beauty that looks like it took about two seconds. Don’t cover the texture of your skin. It should glow. This collection gives you that effect: it’s easy and attainable. Absolutely you’ll see these moods reflected in my fashion lines. These are inherent feminine moods that always shape my collections.

Which women embody sexy for you?

How should women dress to reflect these three moods?

It’s not obvious or overdone. It’s about confidence. Everything is effortless and sensual. Sexy is about knowing yourself well. Angelina Jolie has that strong, confident attitude from every day to the red carpet.

Sporty is the perfect on-the-go, got-to-get-there-fast look. It’s all about cool, casual pieces that

How do you define glamour? Glam is a little bit of indulgence and a lot of attitude. When a woman is feeling glam, she wants to give a little bit more effort to making a statement. She has a bravado that catches every eye in the room. Jennifer Lopez exemplifies modern glamour in every situation.

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have a bit of edge, like perforated accessories, great sneakers and a leather moto jacket and lots of cosy, sexy knits. Sexy means taking everything up a notch. It’s a cocktail dress that hugs the curves, sky-high heels and a strut in the step. The sexiest women I know are the ones that ooze confidence, so I love accessories that express that, like an oversized watch or a python bag. They really up the sex appeal.

Eva Longoria

Glam is so much fun to dress for and is the ideal look for evening. I’d go for a sleek dress, embellished heels, a darker lip and a metallic clutch. Pile on the jewellery too. What could be more glamorous?

Victoria Beckham

What’s the essence of true beauty? I travel a lot and whether I’m in Hong Kong or LA, the most beautiful women are always the ones who have confidence in their style and makeup that illuminates their own natural beauty. If you are confident, you’ll look fantastic. That’s universal.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Heidi Klum

MICHAEL MUST-HAVES

Charlize Theron Draped silk blouse, £200

What role does fragrance play in your collection? This new spring/summer collection is centred on my fragrances, which are the most intimate thing I create. I’ve always been fascinated by the strong connection between scent and memory. For me, fragrance evokes a moment that is connected to a feeling. When I started developing these fragrances, I wanted to take the scents that spoke to me and combine them in a way that would let women easily express themselves.

CELEB FANS OF MICHAEL KORS

Cropped suede jacket, £415

Jennifer Lopez

Striped leather tote, £260

Leather tote, £315

Find these irresistible wardrobe classics at Harvey Nichols Birmingham

Michelle Obama

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STYLE EXPERT

FASHION FOCUS

PHILIP ARMSTRONG S u p e r- chi c lab e l Ph ilip A rmstrong i s the new season star at Harv ey Ni c hol s B i r m i n g ham. A nd rew Riley m et the two cr eati ve geni uses behi nd t he b ra n d Philip Armstrong and Tony Burke know a thing or two about style. Heading up this Liverpool-based label that’s loved by the likes of Lady Gaga, Katy Perry and Nicole Scherzinger, Philip and Tony are at the cutting-edge of glamourled fashion. With an emphasis on shape, curves and tailoring, the clothes they create are dramatic but always wearable, in metallic leathers, lace, snakeprint, lamé and wool crêpe. Here’s their take on spring fashion and beyond.

Anomera £990

Paris Fashion week has just finished, what did you think of it? We’ve just shown at Paris Fashion Week for the first time, and we were really excited about it. We showed our A/W14 collection, which is a 63 piece collection and in our opinion it’s our best to date. We’ve had about 15 orders from UAE and Europe, so we’re very excited about it. Why do you think it’s your best? When you see it all ready, you just get a good reaction and you feel really strongly about quite a lot of the pieces. For us it had every element, from great design to the craftsmanship and work that goes into each piece

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Who gave you your break into fashion? We made it through initially dressing celebrities. Alesha Dixon on Strictly Come Dancing was a huge opportunity, and we’ve dressed her for the last 5 years. The fabulous Nicole Scherzinger has worn our collections and individual pieces for a magazine shoot, and she loves our brand. The press coverage and connections catapulted our brand into the spotlight, but of course the product has to be right to give you the break in the first place. We love and are passionate about what we do and studied our craft in Liverpool so have the talent to back it up.

and in practice it doesn’t work out, that’s a major disappointment, or when a collection doesn’t sell. That hasn’t happened to us yet but for any designer this is a huge fear and this happens to all designers at some point. What are your tips for S/S14? We don’t really go for the trends, it’s what works for the person and what we feel is right; everyone is individual. If you look good in a particular colour we believe you should stick to what you feel good in. You are going to see loads of colour in S/S14 particularly in accessories.

Do you go to all the Fashion Weeks?

Do you think fashion has become less ageist?

We’re showing in New York next (S/S15) but they take a lot of time. While you absolutely get the value from the shows they take a huge amount of planning so we prefer to do one really well.

Yes, lifestyle has changed and people are dressing well and looking good as they mature, fashion has adapted for this.

What do you think of the fashion world in general and what are the highs and lows? It’s fascinating! It can be fantastic or really downtrodden and depressing; highs and lows no in-betweens, it can be very fickle. Highs: when you’ve created something you love and you actually see it coming to life on someone, it doesn’t need to be a celebrity it could be on one of your best customers. That’s the biggest buzz, that’s the high! Lows: when you’ve stayed up all night visualising something

What common mistakes do women make in their wardrobes? In particular poor fit, length, style or not dressing in an age appropriate way. You need someone like they have here at Harvey Nichols Birmingham to advise you; that’s the beauty of a personal shopping department, they are very smart guys and know what they’re doing. What should women be investing in? Staples. Now that money’s a bit tight you need things that you can rely on for longer, things that are season-less.

stylebirminghamMAG.com

STYLE EXPERT

A good coat, shoes, bag, classical colours, versatile items you can adapt and look different with alternative accessories. Worst fashion looks for men and women from the last couple of decades? For men: the drop crotch look, it’s very young but I think it just looks wrong. For women: shell suits! I’m glad they’ve gone! And the tracksuit look, that should be kept for the home or the track! And never go out in your onesie, even to the corner shop! In your view which is the most stylish nation? It has to be Italy. They seem to have a real savoir-faire about them; they keep things simple and elegant, and we British have a lot to learn from their impeccable style.

WE LOVE!

Who’s your favourite fashion designer? The classics! I admire vintage Dior and things like that. Balenciaga and 1950s Chanel. Of all the celebrities you’ve met, who’s wowed you the most? Alesha Dixon. She’s got the whole package, and is beautiful inside and out. What are your hopes and plans for the future? We’d like to expand the brand into many more stores and the Middle East. Find Philip Armstrong at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

Sappho £795

Agea £795 issue 38

STYLE EXPERT

I f i t ’ s h o t, i t ’ s h e r e : t h e m u s t - h av e s w e ’ r e o b s e s s i n g a b o u t r i g h t n o w

THE

ST YL E C HAR T 2

1 It’s never too early to start thinking about holiday swimwear and this Bond-girl style swimsuit fits the bill nicely: £39.50 at M&S.

Sequins aren’t just for winter...or night-time. This unusual skirt, £60 at River Island, is a style statement all of its own and would look amazing dressed down with a simple tee.

We heart the latest statement sweater from the king of edgy knitwear Markus Lupfer. This jumper, £235 at Harvey Nichols, will fast become your weekend go-to piece.

4 3 Nothing says spring like adding a pop of bright colour to your transition wardrobe. These Jimmy Choo neon cage sandals, £625 at Harvey Nichols would work well with denim or neutrals.

5 This sophisticated rose gold necklace, £125, from Folli Follie is high on our wishlist for the new season. Understated but fashion-forward: the perfect investment piece.

Looking for the perfect spring shoe? We think we’ve found it. The brogue trend is still hot, and so are these metallic beauties from H by Henry Holland at Debenhams: a snip at £35.

8 As soon as these pretty sunnies landed on our desk, we knew we were looking at a bestseller. These cutesy sunglasses, £14, will be flying off shelves at Accessorize all spring.

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We adore the quirky designs and top quality leather of Zatchels, and they’re all handmade in Leicester. The spring range has this yummy nude quilted satchel, from £135: zatchels.com

7 Biba’s design heritage is evident in this beautifully cut biker jacket, £125 in House of Fraser. Team with jeans and ankle boots for easy weekend smart-casual.

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SPRING SUNDAE C ool ice-cream shades are hot news in fashion right now. Think pastel blue , baby pink, spring green and primro se yellow 3

Lemon bag, £39.50, M&S

5 4

8 7

1. Fur bag, £35, River Island 2. Blue bag, £34.99, H&M 3. Satchel, £299, M&S 4. Sandals, £29.50, M&S 5. Red Herring scarf, £16, Debenhams 6. Earrings, £6.50, Miss Selfridge 7. Flower studs, £8, River Island 8. Drop earrings, £18, River Island

All items available from The Fort Shopping Park River Island

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STYLE FASHION

PAMPER YOUR SKIN THIS SPRING Spring has finally sprung! If your skin is in need of a p o st-winter brightening blitz then our competition is for you! We’ve teamed up with ethical beauty specialists PHB at Pavilions Birmingham to offer one lucky winner a personal one-to-one skin session and £100 to spend in store. Get glowing with PHB’s Brightening Skin Essentials, the perfect treat to balance and rejuvenate tired and worn-out skin. We love the Brightening Skin Masks: bursting with botanical actives which improve circulation giving you evenly toned skin with a gorgeous healthy natural glow. Not only will you look good, you’ll feel good too as all PHB products are free from alcohol, animal ingredients, harmful chemicals and allergens such as parabens and SLS.

Enter online at stylebirminghamMAG.com or send your full name, address and telephone number to PHB Pavilions competition, Style Birmingham, Publishing Ink, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham B2 4EU by the closing date of May 1, 2014.

! N I W

Terms and conditions The closing deadline is May 1, 2014. The outlined prize cannot be altered and there is no cash alternative. All vouchers from participating retailers are valid only at Pavilions stores. Sale items are not included. The prize is not valid with any other offer or promotion. The validity of the retailer’s vouchers is at each individual retailer’s discretion. Open to UK residents aged 18 years and over, except employees of Pavilions Birmingham or participating retailers. The judge’s decision is final. The winner will be notified by post, email or telephone on or after May 1, 2014. Only one entry per person and all entrants must be resident in UK. Usual competition rules apply. All details correct at time of print. Data Protection By entering this competition you agree for your details to be shared with Pavilions who may wish to contact you with further offers and information, by post and email. Your details will be held in the UK in databases owned by Pavilions and not used for any other purposes.

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NATURAL BEAUTY...

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style fashion

SPRING EDIT

Elegant and u n d e r s tat e d , t h e l u x e l a b e l s at H a rv ey N i c h o l s i n T h e M a i l b ox a r e o n e v e r y s t y l i s ta’ s wishlist this spring

Top, £245, Alice by Temperley, embellished shorts, £310, Parker, jacket, £345, Alice & Olivia

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style fashion

Black skater skirt, £390, Philip Armstrong, Black v-neck top, £75, Cooper & Ella, Blue bag, £188, DKNY, Necklace £89, DKNY, Bangle £140, Lola Rose

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style fashion 20

Photography: Matt Bird. Photographer’s Assistant: Jen Arundel. Stylist: Lizzy Gardner. Makeup Artist: Amy Rose. Hair: Louisa Mason and Jason Thatcher At Bad Apple, Models: Tom Ward, Alan Sharman Agency, Arabella at Boss Model Management, Art Direction By Andrew Riley At Publishing Ink Ltd

Bomber jacket, £580, KENZO, Washed denim shirt, £90, Replay, Slim fit jeans, £225, Philipp Plein

S e e m o r e s p r i n g fa s h i o n at m a i l b ox l i f e .c o m

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STYLE WOMEN

FAS H I O N NEWS

COLOUR BURST

Spring breezes in, with a colourful palette and new season silhouettes

Valentino neon patent pumps, £400

Jimmy Choo neon patent clutch, £650

DKNY shoulder bag, £190

Saint Laurent Paris Tribute sandals, £565

Harvey Nichols has fallen head over heels for juicy colour. Add instant flair to any outfit with these showstoppers.

E ST YL S

LOVE

FLOWER

show

Florals are still big fashion news this season, but if you think they’re too floaty and feminine for your look, think again. The new season prints have a sharper edge that punches up the fashion points. This panel dress, £99 (and burgundy leather biker jacket, £229) from Pied a Terre at House of Fraser fit the bill.

Mac, £89, Monsoon

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Tom Ford, £240 Collar, £59, Ted Baker

Dolce & Gabbana, £145 Prada, £323 Mindy dress, £89, Hobbs in Pavilions

Sandals, £75, Dune

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IN THE SHADE This time of year, a new pair of sunglasses starts to feel like a must-have, with loads of new styles flooding the market. Check out shadestation.co.uk for brands such as Chanel, Dior, Michael Kors and Prada. Love!

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WARM FRONT

STYLE WOMEN

FIRST CUT Summer’s hottest trend in swimwear? Cutaway suits: you read it here first. Already spotted on Cheryl Cole, Rihanna and Kate Moss, a cutaway swimsuit has the sexiness of a bikini with more coverage and a hint of vintage styling. Cutaway swimsuit, £28, Bank.

BARGAIN BUY

Keep spring chills at bay with ultra-fine knitwear that you can layer with style. This cropped sweater, £28 at Next would work for casual as well as work.

Shoppers, grab bags and roomy totes are the handbag shapes du jour. Find a fabulous new collection at Accessorize, from just £29. Our fave shade? Sugar pink.

MY STYLE...TWIGGY

Fashion legend and Sixties icon Twiggy on her love of clothes and couture My style has changed and grown over the years but I have always worn what I feel great in, because if you feel good in an outfit, it gives you huge confidence. My wardrobe is a real mix of statement separates and classic basics that I have collected over the years. It doesn’t matter if it’s designer, high-street or vintage – as long as I feel comfortable. I love dressing up a pair of jeans and a tailored jacket with some great accessories, whether it be a statement necklace or patent leather heels.

I’ve designed a new collection for M&S that has reworked a lot of classic looks, giving them a modern twist. There are figure hugging dresses in colour block leather, embellished knitwear and leather leggings to take you from day to night effortlessly. I have been in the fashion industry since I was 16 and people have seen me grow naturally, which I think is very healthy. It’s important for the younger generation to see mature women looking and feeling fabulous and still being successful. A woman shouldn’t be defined by her age, and our style should represent who we are, not what other people think we should wear. It’s about attitude and confidence. I still think about what I wear each day and love getting dressed up. For me the key to looking fabulous is to stick to what you know suits you but add glam pieces to give them a little update. I recently designed a bright pink lace dress for my daughter’s wedding. I wanted something stylish and on-trend, but first and foremost comfortable. I got so many compliments I decided to add it to my spring collection. Comfort is definitely the key to confidence. Five things I can’t live without? My family - I love and adore them and they keep me grounded. My sewing machine. My moisturising cream. Music. Oh, and chocolate and wine!

NEW IN

Sunshine yellow = spring’s most perfect shade. We love the cheery hue and ladylike styling of the gorgeous new Border Heritage tote, £179, from Radley. It comes in four other pastel colours, too.

Twiggy’s SS14 collection is now available at marksandspencer.co.uk

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Fa s h i o n ta k e s i t s c u e f r o m s u n d r e n c h e d M o r o c c o, w i t h o n-t r e n d animal prints, drapey maxi dresses a n d v i n ta g e - l o o k a c c e s s o r i e s

Blue dress, £169, clutch, £100

STYLE FASHION

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style fashion

Biker jacket, £99, jeans, £79, bowling bag, £199

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style fashion

Maxi dress, ÂŁ189

All Biba at House of Fraser issue 38

STYLE FASHION

Famously founded in the tiny harbour town of Salcombe in Devon, Jack Wills began life with one ambition: to kit out university students. These days, it’s grown and diversified into a very cool aesthetic, with nods to military styling, sports and an upmarket, outdoorsy lifestyle. Little wonder, then, that Jack Wills now has boutiques in preppy USA spots Boston, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard... Expect fabulous quality and natural fabrics and a very British approach to tailoring and workmanship that’s built to last. Rugby and polo shirts share shelf space with tweed jackets, cotton chinos and jerseys designed for rowers...but expect to find plenty of festival-wear, denim, tees and hoodies too. The new spring/summer womenswear collection has pretty pastels, cute fabrics such as broderie anglaise and plenty of jumpsuits and shorts. Check it out – alongside the menswear collection, stationery and selected homewares – at the Jack Wills boutique on Cannon Street.

LABEL WE LOVE

JACK WILLS IS WHERE PREPPY FLAIR MEETS SUMMER FESTIVAL, WITH A DASH OF SHEER CLASS AND LASTING QUALITY MIXED IN. EVEN BETTER, IT’S A TRULY BRITISH BRAND

1. Tangerine dress, £39.50 2. Shorts, £29.50, and top, £39.50 3. Blazer, £129 4. Pink dress, £69.50 3 2

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www.edgbastonpriory.com/open-day *Weather permitting

STYLE FASHION

YOGA STYLE WEAR L u c y K i t e , w e at h e r g i r l e x t r a o r d i n a i r e a n d d e d i c at e d y o g a t e a c h e r , o n h e r l o v e o f s p o r t s w e a r a n d w h y s h e ’ s s wa p p i n g h e r L B D f o r L B L ! I don’t know about you but I for one spend most mornings staring into my overcrowded wardrobe with not a clue what to wear. Once I arrive at work it’s a repeat performance as I rummage through my TV wardrobe to find an outfit to flaunt on the weather report. The drama continues come the afternoon when I get sent out filming often in the wind and rain. That’s three outfits in one day, so why would I add another clothes dilemma to the mix in the form of yoga wear? Well, the answer is because I love fashion and it makes me feel so much happier and motivated if I make an effort. Yoga style is an interesting one because let’s face it, it shouldn’t and doesn’t matter in the slightest what you wear, the main thing is you are doing it. I got thinking about this the other week as I was involved in a chat on a yoga group’s Facebook page where one teacher claimed she ‘cringed’ if a student rolled up wearing Lycra. How ridiculous and how rude! The whole point is you have to be yourself. When I teach I don’t even notice what my

students are wearing, because I’m too busy making sure they are having a good time. I only make an effort myself because I enjoy it and recently there has been an influx of choice which is just too tempting to ignore. The days of Lycra leggings and vest tops being the only option are well behind us, and new and improved activewear brands are cropping up everywhere. So what’s my yoga style? Well, firstly I am on a mission to be comfortable. My outfit has got to give big time, and it’s got to be stretchy as I find myself in all sorts of positions! I did have to do yoga in skinny jeans once for a denim promotion at Selfridges and that was a little bit painful in all the wrong places. So that’s number one, something with stretch. Then I make sure I’m mega comfortable in that I don’t want draughts or trousers that I have to keep pulling up. This is why you’ll usually find me in a trusty all-in-one jumpsuit or onesie! I have a couple of favourites. Firstly, American Apparel, their black spaghetti strap, backless unitard is a staple in my yoga bag. You can throw a t-shirt over the top or wear it on its own for a really slick look. This is the yoga version of an LBD: what I call my LBL, short for little black leggings! I am also a huge fan of Wellicious (wellicious.com). This is a glamorous, stylish collection, ethically made in Europe. The fabrics are supersoft and cosy, and I promise you’ll just want to live in these clothes. I love the Cool Down Jumpsuit. It comes in chocolate brown with a loose fitting top half and bandeau bra that makes it feel quite edgy. Wellicious also does a super sexy black catsuit that you can dress up or down. So, all-in-ones are my thing but I also have a stack of inspirational tanks by Lorna Jane Active. My yoga classes are all about inspiring and making my students feel strong and happy and these t-shirts reinforce that attitude. This is an Australian brand that has just landed in the UK and is well

worth a look. Check out activeinstyle.co.uk for more information. If you can I reckon it is well worth stretching your budget and bending over backwards (excuse the puns!) to treat yourself to some extra special activewear for the new season. Embrace your fitness wardrobe and it will embrace you giving you confidence, motivation and a serious spring in your step!

Find out more about Lucy’s yoga and TV work at lucykite.co.uk. You can also follow Lucy on Twitter @LUCYITV

All yogawear on this page from wellicious.com issue 38

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STYLE FASHION

Sunglasses, £15, River Island

Marc Jacobs rose gold watch, £166.50, Shade Station, shadestation.co.uk

Jacket, £38, Red Herring at Debenhams

Dress, £50, Ginger Fizz at Bank

Jacket, £170, Preen at Debenhams

Cropped leather jacket, £229, Mint Velvet, mintvelvet.co.uk

Bangle, £40, Folli Follie

ROSY GLOW

Soft Pink, Rose Gold And Florals Are To The Fore T h i s S p r i n g . P r e pa r e To B l oom...

Skirt, £25, River Island

Top, £99, Ted Baker

Necklace, £135, Folli Follie Clutch, £59, Pied a Terre at House of Fraser

Heels, £65, Office

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Auctioneers & Valuers of Antiques, Jewellery & Watches Vintage Jewellery & Accessories – Monday 12th May Antique & Modern Jewellery – Thursday 15th May Pocket Watches & Accessories – Monday 19th May Fellows also hold fortnightly auctions of Watches & Jewellery.

STYLE FASHION

BUYING VINTAGE JEWELS I f your jew e lle ry-b uy ing tend s to be mor e hi gh str eet than hi g hly p r i z e d, it may b e time to u p your game . B uyi ng j ewellery at auc t i on ca n n o t only bag you s o me thi ng beauti ful but a li fel ong i nvestm en t, a s Sar ah Mor r i s r ep orts Edwardian Marilyn Monroe once sang that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend”, and she would be right, if Jewellery Quarter-based auction house, Fellows, is anything to go by. Asked what their most sought-after items would generally be for auctions in the jewellery and watches department, good quality, sizeable diamonds came out top for the most popular. Being a virgin in the world of auctions – unless you count eBay of course – I wanted to know what the most sought-after items to look out for would be, after diamonds, and why. Good quality, older items: pieces from the Georgian period are difficult to find, so are often very soughtafter when they pop up in auctions. Edwardian pieces: first and foremost, the age and rarity of quality Edwardian pieces make these popular items to bid on. But in addition, the items tend to be very wearable with pretty, feminine designs. Designer pieces at auction: everything from Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra ring to Cartier’s love bangle are always popular, simply because buyers can often make a saving in comparison to buying from the high street. Items can also be very popular depending on the type of stones they contain: Natural pearls have seen an exponential increase in price in recent years. This is largely due to two things; more buyers from emerging markets pushing the price up, but also following the surge of cultured pearls, people are realising how difficult it is to source a natural pearl – though many of these are antique. Another popular stone is the emerald. Emeralds have always been popular and this trend remains because they are not mined as much, and demand is very much outstripping supply for good quality emeralds. So now we know what’s going to be the most popular items, how do we know we’re going to get a good deal on them, and not pay over the odds? According to Fellows, it is perfectly possible to actually bag yourself a bargain at auction, and for new items, even save yourself a bit of money on the

price you would have paid had you sought to buy a similar item for the RRP on the high street.

An early 20th century 15ct gold split pearl necklace. Est. £340 - 440

On the other hand however, if the item is particularly highly prized - for example some of the rarer jewels – there is the chance of you entering a bidding war with another buyer, which can on occasions push up the retail price. Here it comes down to how much you want the item.

“it is perfectly

An early 20th century 18ct gold negligee pendant. Est £360 - 460

An Edwardian platinum diamond tiara. Est £5,000 - £7,000

possible to actually bag yourself a bargain at auction,

Designer

and for new items, even save yourself a bit of money on the price you would have paid had you sought

CARTIER - a sapphire ‘Ellipse deux tetes croisees’ ring. Est £500 - 700

Diamonds

to buy a similar item for the RRP on the high street” Ultimately, when it comes to buying at auction, whilst it’s good to know what is going to be the most popular, in the end it comes down to your taste and preference. With Fellows’ auctions, the team of experts in each department ensure that what you’re going to get is of the highest quality and will be priced right from the start.

A diamond singlestone ring of 1.42 cts, D colour VVS2 clarity Est £4,000 - £6,000

A pair of 18ct gold diamond single-stone ear studs, each weighing 1.01cts, diamonds are D and E colour, VS2 and VS1 clarity £5,000 - £7,000

pearl A natural pearl stickpin estimate £1,600 - £2,200

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STYLE BEAUTY

B E AUT Y N EWS S o f t s h a d e s o f a p r i c o t a n d h o n e y m e e t g l ow i n g s k i n f o r t h e p e r f e c t s p r i n g m a k e ov e r

LASH APPEAL

Want Keira Knightley’s long, silky lashes? Try Clinique’s new Lash Power Feathering Mascara, £18, for feathery perfection.

SKIN SAVIOURS

CULTURE CLUB

Aveda’s new limited edition makeup collection, Culture Clash, has a folkloric feel, full of deep plum and rich, earthy tones offset by the most gorgeous seafoam green. Invest in the NourishMint Rehydrating Lip Glaze, £16, in new shades of Rose Copper and Berry Bud.

Darphin CC Cream Instant Multi-Benefit Care SPF 35, £32, makes skin look flawless

Sweet nectar Most flattering shades on counter right now? Coral, apricot and nectar. Bobbi Brown’s built a whole new collection around these healthy colours: we love the soft glow of the new Nectar and Nude Pink Lip Glosses, £18 and Nail Polish, £11.

Refresh skin in hours with The Body Shop’s Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil, £12

Epionce Ultra Shield Lotion SPF 50, £40.50, is recommended by dermatologists as a near-perfect SPF (beauty-product-online.co.uk)

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stylebirminghamMAG.com

STYLE BEAUTY

WE E! V LO

Clinique’s new Cheek Pop, £16.50, is a sheer wash of natural-looking colour.

FUTURE’S BRIGHT

Get ready to vamp up spring with a bright pop of colour. The new Illamasqua Satin Finish Glamore Lipstick, £16.50 at Selfridges, has plenty of hot shades to choose from.

TINE U O R Y T U MY BEA Downton Abbey and Ripper Street actress Myanna Buring shares the secrets of her perfect skin I drink at least two litres of water a day and I eat relatively healthily and I juice every day. And I try to have Neena Trehan facials regularly. They help keep my skin deeply cleansed and moisturised. I love Spa Fabulous skincare. Every morning and night I cleanse with Spa Fabulous cleanser, spritz with toner or cold water if I’ve run out. In the morning I use the calming serum or glow serum, then moisturiser, then sun factor 50. At night I only massage my chosen serum onto my face: nothing else. I love mineral makeup. I usually use a mineral powder for foundation, ID Bare Minerals or Laura Mercier. Then it’s a bit of bronzer to shade my cheeks and eyes, mascara, lip balm, or a red or pink lipstick. I love MAC and Chanel lip colours.

ST LUST LI

BARGAIN BUY

No choc allowed: have a guilt-free Easter with the Bronnley Easter Egg Soap Tins, £3.49.

On Downton Abbey, I wore minimal makeup, which can be daunting when you have breakouts. But ultimately it would look so wrong and at odds with the period if it were anything else. My job is not to look good: it’s to sell a character. Find Spa Fabulous at spafabulousorganics.co.uk

Salvatore Ferragamo’s new fragrance Signorina Eleganza, from £42, bursts with sophisticated florals.

LET IT RAIN

We’re in love with Jo Malone London’s latest fragrance collection, London Rain. Chic and timeless, there areJo four scents: Rain & Angelica, We’re in love with Malone London’s latest fragrance collection, London Wisteria Violet, Whitethere Jasmine & Mint and Rain & Angelica, Wisteria Rain. Chic&and timeless, are four scents: Black Cedarwood & Juniper, £82and eachBlack fromCedarwood the & Violet, White Jasmine & Mint & Juniper, £82 each Jo Malone in Bullring. from the Joboutique Malone boutique in Bullring.

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style beauty

HAIR CLINIC Are hair masks worth the effort ? Why does a hair consultation matter? The experts at Royston B lythe answer these questions and more

Q: If you’re thinking of a cut and/or colour, what should be your first considerations? A: Only one consideration should be necessary! Find yourself a great stylist! Ask for recommendations from friends and colleagues whose hair you admire, then book into the salon for a consultation taking along with you images of hairstyles that you are tempted by. Ensure you feel connected to the stylist and inspired by their suggestions, and then it’s time to trust the professional and let their expertise take over. Q: What can you expect at a salon consultation and why is it important? A: salon consultation will allow you to communicate exactly what your expectations are with your stylist; your stylist has the opportunity to discuss your hair’s condition and the styling challenges that you may face at home, whether that’s limited time or, for example, regular washing because of gym visits. Address your hair concerns and together you will find specific solutions, and perhaps product or styling recommendations. Most importantly, be prepared to listen to honest advice and remember that this is their area of expertise. Q: How can we get hair back in top condition now that the cold and wet winter weather has passed? A: Treatments! Healthy eating is vital, of course, but also regular trims are a must to banish split ends. Your priority, however, should be to spend a little time with a professional stylist discussing the condition and individual needs of your hair.

HOT TREND ALERT!

Q: What’s the benefit of a hair mask? How much should you use, for how long, and how often? A: Hair masks are a fundamental part of any hair care regime. The key to a successful hair mask is to ensure that it has been prescribed to suit your individual hair needs. You should expect a hair mask to maintain moisture balance, protect your hair from external elements, restructure damaged hair and preserve your hair colour. Specific masks will target individual problems. At Royston Blythe, we use Kerastase Fusio Dose, a fast and effective dose of restructuring treatment that leaves hair healthy on the inside and shiny on the outside. At home you should begin a weekly hair treatment hair ritual. For coloured hair we love Kerastase Chroma Captive £27.50: the application depends entirely on the length and type of your hair, so be guided by your stylist. For a more professional salon finish you should take the time to brush up on your application technique: push and work the treatment in to your hair and leave in for a maximum of 10 minutes. Whilst some benefits are instantly visible, others become more substantial and apparent over time. Regular treatments will results in longer term results! Q: Should you change your shampoo and conditioner with the seasons? A: Your hair regime does not need to be adapted for a change in season: it’s more important to monitor the condition of your hair all year round and seek advice from your stylist if it changes. Ensure that the products you use are working for your hair: a change in lifestyle, such as a holiday, may require additional products to return your hair to a normal nourished condition. Q: Is a clarifying shampoo worth the money? A: The question should be does your hair need clarifying shampoo. If your hair

issue 38

has a build-up of products and feels heavy then we would recommend clarifying shampoo. Q: What are your best tips for protecting hair from heat damage caused by styling? A: Heat really is the single biggest cause of damage to the hair. If your straightening irons are your prize possession it is an absolute must that you protect your hair before applying them. We recommend our clients use Kerastase Chroma Thermique, £19.50. We advise all clients to be heat damage aware - very often just a little advice from your stylist will reduce the need to use heat on such a regular basis. Q: What’s the hottest new style for spring? A: When the sun shines, lighter, brighter hair is a must. This season, for us, it is all about ultra relaxed hair with a soft, loose feminine feel that is ultimately face framing. Ribbons of lighter shades should run through the hair accentuating the style and leaving a definite sunkissed appeal. Understated, easy to maintain chic! Find out more about Royston Blythe salons in both Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury at roystonblythe.co.uk, or by following them on twitter (twitter.co.uk/ rbshrewsbury) or liking them on facebook (facebook.co.uk/roystonblythe).

stylebirminghammag.com

STYLE BEAUTY

ST Y

ES LOV

2 9

PRETTY IN PINK

F l at t e r i n g a n d y o u t h f u l , r o s e p i n k i s s p r i n g ’ s l o v e l i e s t b e au t y s t o r y 8 1. Benefit Lollitint, £24.50 2. Michael Kors Nail Lacquer in Sexy Scandal, £15, House of Fraser 3. NARS Duo Eye Shadow in Bouthan, £25, Harvey Nichols 4. The Rosebud Perfume Company EOS lip balms in Strawberry Sorbet, £7.50, Harvey Nichols 5. Creed Spring Flower EDP, £95, Harvey Nichols 6. Aveda Petal Essence Single Eye Color in New Lilac, £12 7. DKNY Fresh Blossom Skin Hydrating EDT, £39, Boots 8. Aveda Nourish-Mint Smoothing Lip Color in Peruvian Lily, £13 9. OPI Nail Lacquer in Bubble Bath, £11.50 10. Laura Mercier Mineral Cheek Colour in Pink Spark, £18.50, Harvey Nichols

5 6

7 issue 38

STYLE BEAUTY

COUNTDOWN TO

SUMMER it ’s time to get in shape and look your beautiful best… with a little help from the experts With summer on its way, start your beach body countdown now! Try the latest body contouring sensation, CoolSculpting and in just 90 days you can achieve the shape you want, and have the confidence to slip into that bikini feeling fabulous! Though eating a sensible diet and exercising regularly are always a great idea, there’s still some areas that are tricky to trim. If you want to sculpt your upper arms, slim down muffin tops and wave goodbye to wobbly thighs, CoolSculpting could be the answer. It’s a non-surgical alternative to liposcution clinically approved by the FDA*. Using revolutionary technology Cryolipolysis, it freezes only fat cells to a temperature that triggers them to die and be removed from the body in the natural way and in normal amounts. Once gone, they’re gone forever. There is no surgery and best of all, no downtime. Results have shown that a single one hour treatment can achieve up to a 40 percent reduction of fat in the treated area. Initial results are visible from 30 days with full results at 90 days. CoolSculpting is

available at Air Aesthetics Clinic: to arrange your FREE Consultation with Dr Oliver (BDS) call 0845 519 5377 or email hello@airaesthetics.co.uk or visit airaesthetics.co.uk

“CoolSculpting is a clinically approved treatment that is transforming the shape of my patients’ bodies. With no downtime and no side effects it takes 90 days to reduce those stubborn bulges permanently” Dr Claire Oliver (BDS)

fast facts • CoolSculpting is FDA cleared, safe and clinically proven. • Cryolipolysis precisely freezes stubborn fat, the fat cells are removed by the body without injury to the skin or other tissues and once destroyed they do not re-grow. • No knives, needles or scars • More than 850,000 treatments carried out worldwide *Food & Drug Administration

For further details contact Air Aesthetics on 01564 794 103 or airaesthetics.co.uk

issue 38

stylebirminghamMAG.com

STYLE BEAUTY

Say Hello To Your Beautiful Beach Body In 90 Days CoolSculpting® is the revolutionary body contouring treatment that freezes and naturally eliminates fat from your body. There are no needles, no special diets, no exercise programs and best of all - no downtime. Developed by Harvard Scientists to eliminate fat, Coolsculpting® is FDA-cleared, safe and clinically proven.

say goodbye to stubborn fat To arrange your FREE consultation at our Birmingham clinic call Dr Oliver (BDS) on 0845 519 5377 email hello@airaesthetics.co.uk or visit www.airaesthetics.co.uk

BEFORE

17 WEEKS AFTER

COOLSCULPTING® (No Weight Change) Procedure by Brock Ridenour, MD

“CoolSculpting is a clinically approved treatment that is transforming the shape of my patients bodies. With no downtime and no side effects it takes 90 days to reduce those stubborn bulges permanently” Dr. Claire Oliver (BDS)

issue 38

STYLE MEN

From camo footwear to cutting-edge timepieces, this is your spring style edit

RIVIERA CHIC

IN GOOD TIME

ST Y L E N E WS Hugo Boss Watches has a new range of men’s timepieces this spring. The Driver Collection mixes classic design with style updates such as rose gold trim and silver digits. Priced from £199, from Goldsmiths in Bullring.

WHITE OUT The Emporio Armani SS14 menswear show stole the limelight at Milan Fashion Week, with its bold futuristic shapes and razor-sharp laser-cut tailoring. In a sophisticated palette of white, camel, black, navy and gunmetal grey, the collection had a sci-fi-meets-sport feel, with mesh fabrics, quilted panels and shoes in summery pure white and woven leather. The SS14 collection is in-store now at Emporio Armani in The Mailbox.

We’re coveting the elegant Portofino-inspired new collections at House of Fraser. Think lightweight linen suiting, classic blazers in pastel shades, slim white cotton chinos and soft leather deck shoes. The Polo Ralph Lauren concession is where you’ll find this striped crew neck jumper £135, and shorts £100.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

White, £600

Laser cut, £530

Stretch skinny jeans, £30, Topman

Skull tee, £9.99, H&M

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Leather jacket, £149.99, H&M

BARGAIN BUY

Bag, £40, J By Jasper Conran at Debenhams

stylebirminghamMAG.com

STYLE MEN

SHARP STYLE 1

TAKE FIVE Harvey Nichols’ spring menswear is as diverse as it is style-led: expect to find classic-era Versace baroque prints rubbing shoulders with preppy slimfit trousers and brogues. Here’s five of the must-haves 1. Tom Ford aviator sunglasses, £233 2. Versace Baroque print T-shirt, £415 3. Pierre Hardy neon sneakers, £560

4 Best summer investment? A beautifully-cut suit that will take you from work to weekend event by way of evening drinks. Buy now to take advantage of the widest range: June is too late to start looking! Jacket £250, trousers £99, shoes £130 and bag £199, all Ted Baker.

4. Versus Versace mid-rise jeans, £265 5. McQ Alexander McQueen leather rucksack, £455

just in

WEEKEND WORKOUT Heading out for a run this Sunday? Kit out in the new collection workout gear from Superdry (in Bullring). Shorts, £34.99, and sweatshirt, £44.99.

The new camouflage collection of flip-flops from iconic brand Havaianas is selling out fast so secure yours now: from £22, find stockists at havaianas-store.com

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STYLE MEN

GREY DAWN Hottest colour on the men’s runways this spring? Coolest grey. Time to get your gunmetal on, as Lizzy Gardner reports

he light grey suit is proving to be the go-to for tailoring within menswear this SS14, offering an alternative to the blue suit that was set to be the only colour to be seen in this season. From the catwalks of Z Zegna, Jil Sander, Paul Smith and Hermès, light grey tailoring was seen in varying shades, while universally the cut was slim-fitting. To achieve the look, keep the styling simple and opt for a crisp white shirt or a tonal crew neck jumper. In contrast to previous seasons, there’s a more laid back feel to spring; lead by the likes of Nicole Farhi, Emporio Armani and Burberry Prorsum to name but a few. Understated, yet effortlessly stylish collections dominated in a muted palette of whites, pale greys and nudes. White is an unmissable trend for SS14. Worn head-to-toe (as seen at Dolce & Gabbana, Ports 1961 and Berluti) or shaken up with an accent colour. The most noticeable pairing was seen at Paul Smith and Tom Ford, where white was contrasted with bubblegum and pastel pink. For a quick buy-in to the trend, try a pair of tailored cropped trousers or the season’s new longer length shorts. While we move through the unpredictable season that is spring, you’ll be pleased to hear that there is a stylish, yet practical trend emerging in outerwear: the long, lightweight jacket. Typically this was seen knee-length, but appeared in a variety of styles; from cool and contemporary hooded macs at Fendi, to more traditional styles as seen at Ermenegildo Zegna. Combine yours with tailored trousers, shirt and blazer for formal occasions or with cropped chinos and lightweight knitwear for more relaxed occasions. Versatile, functional and stylish, this is a wardrobe must for the well-dressed man. Love them or hate them, florals are another key trend in menswear at the moment. One of the biggest pioneers of the print was Gucci, showcasing head to toe floral suits. And while head-to-toe print may be too bold a statement for some, stylish separates are the easy way to buy into this trend. Take inspiration from the Dries van Noten show and style relaxed floral print pants with a loose knit; perfect for pared-down weekend style. Forgot any misconceptions that florals aren’t wearable, the new season’s prints are delivered in a mostly dark palette, keeping them, in the most part, masculine.

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Grey led the spring/summer ’14 collection from Emporio Armani menswear at Milan Fashion Week. Find Emporio Armani in The Mailbox

stylebirminghamMAG.com

22 Church Street Birmingham B3 2NP

www.clementsandchurch.co.uk

STYLE TRAVEL

TRAVEL NEWS Dreaming of a spring break? Perhaps we can help...

IN THE MOVIES

New film The Grand Budapest Hotel, starring Ralph Fiennes, Tilda Swinton and Jude Law chronicles the comic adventures of a concierge at a famous Hungarian hotel between the wars. Lush and beautiful, the movie’s set to make ancient Budapest a must-visit location this year. You can enjoy a four-night stay at the similarly grand fivestar Hotel Corinthia, with Voyages Jules Verne, from £675 per person including British Airways flights: go to vjv.com for more information.

Two to try

Next time you’re in London, stay in style. The Presidential Apartments luxury suites in Kensington are the best-kept secret of A-list celebs in town for a flying visit. It’s like staying in your own London pied-à-terre, with a spacious, sleek kitchen and bathroom, and the bonus of a 24-hour concierge: from £230 a night, presidentialapartmentslondon.com. Top boutique hotel the Jumeirah Lowndes is just around the corner from Harrods Cabin bag, £49, in Knightsbridge and has exquisitely and holdall, £20, decorated rooms and fabulous drinking and Tripp: tripp. dining choices in both the Lowndes Bar & co.uk Kitchen and The Terrace. Rooms from £325 a night: jumeirah.com

1. Presidential Apartments

STYLE LOVES

2. Jumeirah Lowndes

GLAMOROUS CANNES Next month is the Cannes Film Festival , when Hollywood decamp s to the Riviera. Why not go along for the fun of it ? Jewel in the Côte d’Azur crown, Cannes is old-school glam, thanks to its star-studded film festival and rich cultural history. Designer shopping on the rue d’Antibes, a hedonistic vibe and stunning architecture make this the perfect Riviera resort, but there’s also a lot of classic France here too: tiny brasseries on cobbled streets and locals playing boules in the parks. What to do when you’re not rubbing shoulders with Clooney and Pitt on the famous seafront Croisette? Check out fresh produce at the Marché Forville market, and walk through the old town Le Suquet for panoramic bay views. The best beach is at Zplage, owned by five-star Hotel Martinez (hotel-martinez.com/ en), or you could take a boat trip out to Ile Saint-Honorat for waterside dining and a visit to the Abbaye de Lérins, where Cistercian monks make wine and lavender honey to take home as souvenirs (abbayedelerins.com).

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stylebirminghamMAG.com

STYLE TRAVEL

NEW YORK

STATE OF MIND

Whether it ’s a walk in C entral Park , dinner at The Plaza or just a cup cake in the Village , New York is the ultimate spring city-break, discovers Sarah Drew Jones New York is one of the few famous cities that non only lives up to the hype but exceeds it: a vibrant, exciting city that’s full of grand hotels, intimate restaurants and stunning museums, not to mention the best shopping in the world. Only a five-hour flight away, NYC is ideal for even the briefest break. But with so much to see, where to begin? To get your bearings, head to midtown and the beautiful Art Deco Rockefeller Center (rockerfellercenter.com): tour the NBC Studios and explore the Top of the Rock, the six-level Observation Deck, for breathtaking 360-degree views across the city at a head-spinning 850 feet above street level. A few short steps from Rockefeller Center is the glorious St Patrick’s Cathedral, one of the most stunning cathedrals in North America. It’s open all day, so stop in to take a breather and admire the exquisite stained-glass windows: choirs practise here all through the week, so you may be lucky and get a free recital. A stroll along Fifth Avenue is a quintessential New York experience. The world’s most famous luxury brands are here, from Louis Vuitton to Prada and, of course, Saks Fifth Avenue, with its decadent window displays. Step into Godiva’s flagship store to buy New York’s best truffles but more importantly, you’ll find the legendary Tiffany & Co (tiffany.com) a few doors away, at Fifth Avenue and 57th Street. Surprisingly, there’s no locked door here: you can walk straight in and admire the diamonds, but savvy shoppers head to the third

floor, where the much more affordable silver range is kept, priced from around £100 (and everything comes in the signature blue boxes!). At Times Square, the tiny Tickets booth is the best place to go if you have your sights set on a big Broadway show, but consider some old-school culture too: the Metropolitan Museum of Art (metmuseum.org) has brilliant exhibitions, both permanent and pop-up, from Native-American fertility sculptures to the passionfilled paintings of the French Impressionists. From the Met, it’s a one-minute walk into Central Park. Plan to spend at least a day of your stay here, whatever the weather. Head north to the lake to take a leisurely gondola ride underneath the picturesque Bow Bridge (centralpark.com). Cross to the west side of the Park to find the poignant memorial to John Lennon, the flower-strewn Strawberry Fields, then walk further up to imposing Belvedere Castle and the Conservatory Garden, both perfect locations for a picnic and lazy afternoon of people-watching. Fancy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Park? The carriages can be found all year round lined up along Central Park South between 5th and 6th Avenues, and cost around $34 (£22) plus tip for a 20-minute ride. No need to book: simply walk up and hop on. Greenwich Village is a haven of whimsical boutiques, world-cuisine restaurants and cosy bars. Spend a relaxing hour in one of the many vintage bookstores, share a pastel-iced cupcake at the famous Magnolia Bakery on Bleecker Street or split a bag of warm chocolate chip cookies at the equally delectable Eleni’s inside the trendy Chelsea Market on Ninth Avenue, which is also a fantastic place to find fresh flowers and the best US wines and Champagnes. Want movie-star glamour? Tour The Empire State Building (esbnyc.com) at night and from there, move on for dinner at an NY institution: the Oyster Bar at Grand Central Station, where you can follow a plateful of aphrodisiac oysters with a huge slice of authentic New York cheesecake (oysterbarny.com). Finish your trip with some photos for the album: walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to Brooklyn Heights, where a stroll along the Promenade offers a scenic view of the Manhattan skyline, and splash out on a farewell dinner at the elegant River Café on Water Street, where New York’s coolest residents come to dine.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE... Order the famous Frozen Hot Chocolate for Two at Serendipity 3 on the Upper East Side, the vintage-style cafe that regularly attracts stars including Cameron Diaz and Sarah Jessica Parker. Made from 14 kinds of chocolate, the dessert comes in a fishbowl with two spoons! (serendipity3.com) Visit The Polar Circle inside The Central Park Zoo. It’s got giant polar bears, king penguins, snow leopards, seals and puffins and is the most magical part of the zoo’s beautiful five acres. (centralparkzoo.com) Eat Sunday brunch at Peacock Alley at The Waldorf-Astoria Hotel on Park Avenue. Amidst lush Art Deco surroundings and live piano music, there’s a spectacular spread of 12 ‘food stations’ manned by chefs preparing everything from crepes to lobster. (peacockalleyrestaurant. com) Take a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry. This 25-minute journey provides the most breathtaking views of the city, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and is particularly romantic at sunset. (siferry.com) Dine by candlelight at The Central Park Boathouse, which has featured in everything from Sex and the City to 27 Dresses. With a fairytale deck overlooking the lake, it’s the place where New Yorkers come to propose! (weddings.about.com)

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STYLE TRAVEL

48 HOURS IN ROME

Ready for a little dolce vita? P H I L I P E L L I S explores the Eternal C ity

hen it comes to weekend city breaks, Rome is the big daddy. Thousands of years old, a destination for pilgrims all over the world, and home to a thousand and one statues, shrines, and sacred sites. You’d be forgiven for thinking it’s impossible to do Rome in just two days. And sure, there is enough to see and do to keep you occupied for a week-long stay; but for those of you who have neither the time nor the budget for that, let me tell you, 48 hours is more than enough. I flew out with three friends on Friday morning, landing at noon. We stayed in a small, beautiful apartment in a 700 year old building on Via Dei Leutari, a side street just off Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, a busy avenue that runs directly through the centre

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of the city. We wasted no sightseeing time and set off immediately. Just a short walk from the apartment was Palazzo Venezia, a vast square overlooked by the stunning Altare Della Patria, a monument to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of a unified Italy. It is definitely worth scaling the steps to the monument for the breath-taking view of the city, including the ever-present dome of St Peter’s Basilica. Strolling from Palazzo Venezia down Vei Dei Fori Imperiali, you’ll find plenty of affordable restaurants. It is considered bad form in Italy to order fewer than two courses, so a speedy lunch is out of the question. It’s also perfectly acceptable to take in a cheeky afternoon cocktail (or a litre tankard of draught beer, if you prefer). Once you’re fed and watered, the Colosseum, Imperial Forum and Palatine Hill are

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STYLE TRAVEL

St. Peter’s Basillica

myth that Rome is an exceptionally expensive city; however, dinner is usually between €40 and €50 (around £35, no more than you’d spend at a restaurant in the UK). The next morning, we headed west towards Vatican City. This might be where the notion that Rome is expensive originates; everywhere you look in St Peter’s Square, there are touts trying to sell you guided tours and queue jump tickets for a hefty fee. St Peter’s Basilica is stunning from the outside, but if you’re not too fussed about seeing the exterior, you can skip the lengthy queue and go straight to the Vatican Museum just up the road, where you will only stand in line for fifteen to twenty minutes. It’s a long walk through the entirety of the museum, and I won’t lie, after a while each statue begins to look a lot like the next. But it is worth it for the grand finale. Even a secular soul such as I was moved by the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, one of the most famous works of art in the world. From there, it was onto the bus and west to Piazza Di Spagni and the Spanish Steps, then down through a labyrinthine network of alleys and side streets to the Pantheon, a beautiful church where tourists are invited to sit in quiet contemplation. Trust me, by the time you get there, you will be eager to take the weight off your feet for a few minutes!

right there, ready to be explored. One invaluable piece of advice; queue at the Forum for tickets to all three, as the lines are significantly shorter.

If I could only use one word to describe Rome, it would have to be ‘decadent’. From the ubiquitous crumbling ruins and reminders of Roman greatness, to the plush, gilded conclave of the Vatican, to the countless cafes and restaurants that beckon to you with the aroma of freshly baked bread… Rome is the epitome of excess, a feast for all of the senses.

The Colosseum was the setting for Ancient Rome’s favourite grisly pastimes; gladiatorial tournaments and hunts. Along with the slaves we know from Ridley Scott’s Gladiator, free men were also able to volunteer to become fighters, receiving wealth and glory if they won. Think of it as an antiquated X Factor. By the time we’d wandered around the Colosseum, admired the views from Palatine Hill, and stepped back in time at the Forum, it was time to get back to the apartment, freshen up, and venture out again for dinner. We hit the picturesque Palazzo Navona, where there is no shortage of places offering delicious pasta, pizza and Prosecco. It is a popular

But the sensory overload I felt from taking in countless churches, temples and monuments was nothing compared to the moment I tasted gelato for the first time. Pistachio-flavoured, topped with cream, melted chocolate, and a wafer for good measure. As far as I’m concerned, there is only one place to go for gelato in Rome (and we tried a fair few). That place is Frigidarium, a small establishment on Via Del Governo Vecchio, one block north of Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. They have so many amazing flavours to choose from, the expression ‘kid in a sweetshop’ comes to mind. And if ice cream isn’t your thing, then you can nip down the street to coffee bar Mimi

Trevi Fountain

e Coco and ask for their house speciality; a tiny cup coated with melted chocolate, filled with espresso, and topped with cream. Needless to say, you won’t do too well on your diet in Rome. On the bright side, you’ll do so much walking that any extraneous calories from the pizza, pasta, tiramisu and gelato will be swiftly burned off. As you might expect from a city built on seven hills, steep inclines abound! Quite often, an unfortunate consequence of visiting iconic tourist attractions is that they can be less impressive in real life than you might have imagined. For example, it has been known for the Eiffel Tower to pale in comparison to visitors’ romantic expectations. But there is no risk of that in Rome. Once we muscled our way through the crowds of coin throwers, it was impossible not to feel the magic of the Trevi Fountain. Immortalised in films like La Dolce Vita and Roman Holiday, the classical travertine sculptures give you the impression that they could spring to life at any moment. We bowed to custom and each threw a coin into the fountain in the traditional manner, throwing it from our right hands over our left shoulders. According to local superstition, this guarantees you will return to the city sometime in the future. And I for one can’t wait.

TRAVEL INFORMATION Getting there: Flights from Birmingham International to Rome Fiumicino begin at approximately £100 with Monarch in the spring. There are bus links into the city from Fiumicino airport, and taxis have a fixed rate of €40, with a surcharge of €2 per bag (no, I don’t know why). Getting around: There are a number of open top bus companies operating in Rome which allow you to hop on and off as many times as you like throughout the city. Tickets for the weekend are just €20 each, including earphones for a guided tour. Where to stay: Hotels in central Rome are plentiful, and competitively priced. The Four Rivers Suites are highly recommended; when booking you can choose to stay in the main hotel on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, or rent a private apartment on the nearby Via Dei Leutari. This costs just £80 per person for the entire weekend, and proves to be a perfect base, as it is within walking distance of the Vatican, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Colosseum.

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STYLE SOCIAL

ALL EYES ON

BIRMINGHAM O u r ci t y is finally g e ttin g the nati onal r ecogni ti on i t d e se rv e s, argue s pub lic relati ons expert Tar a Tomes, and it ’s all th anks to fi ve good r easons Unless you’ve been under a rock for the past few months you’ll have noticed that Birmingham is hitting the headlines for all the right reasons. The national – and international - media is shining a light on the Second City. Despite the trickle of column inches over the years, there has been something missing; something that brings it all together to create a reputation that we all know the city deserves. Everything is finally coming together this year and Birmingham is suddenly the place to be. In the past I’ve heard many people say that we’re “too good at too many things” which, apparently, has made it difficult for us to focus on what our message is as a city. Any good branding person would likely agree; what are the city’s selling points? The messages have been so mixed that even we, as the city’s residents, haven’t quite known how to talk about ourselves. So, here’s my take on it all. Brand message number one: Birmingham is great at food We’ve got some fantastic Ambassadors for the city: Glynn Purnell (Purnell’s), Luke Tipping (Simpsons) and Aktar Islam (Lasan) being three of them. We’ve always been famous for creating the Balti but our Michelin stars and Gordon Ramsay seal of approval have started to show the world that we’re about much more than the Balti Triangle. It’s great to wake up on a Saturday morning and see Glynn and Aktar waving the city’s flag on Saturday Kitchen. Losing Taste of Birmingham was a blow to the city but

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now the influx of farmers’ markets and the return of the Colmore BID Food Festival in the summer means that alfresco eating is back on the to do list. Brand message number two: Birmingham’s cultural offering rivals any major European city Having worked on projects like the International Dance Festival Birmingham, Gigbeth and BASS Festival, I am a massive champion of the city’s dedication to art, design, performing arts and music. There are a host of people that work tirelessly to ensure that we’ve got a programme of culture that really sets us apart from other cities. Make sure you check out this year’s International Dance Festival; unless you’re specifically interested in performing arts you may not realise just how world-famous some of the people involved are.

“Everything is finally coming together this year and Birmingham is suddenly the place to be”

I promise you that after watching one show, you’ll be hooked. If music is more your thing I’m sure you’ll also be heading to Wireless Festival and BBC Radio 1Xtra Live later this year too! I’m sure, like me, you walked the streets a few years ago and bumped into the Hustle and Survivors camera crews, and now we’re enjoying the same excitement thanks to Peaky Blinders and Benefits Street. As well as mainstream TV, you may not be aware of some of our behind the screen talent; people like Tom Lawes, owner of the Electric Cinema, who is actually an award-winning director and producer. Brand message number three: Birmingham is definitely the city for shopping When The Mailbox, Bullring and Selfridges became part of our skyline in the early Noughties, we finally added some colour to our streets. It has taken some time since then but if you walk around the city centre you can see all of the work going in to new developments. The one everyone is talking about is, of course, Grand Central and the arrival of John Lewis. That will also be re-enforced with the opening of the new-look Mailbox next year… and with a roof being part of the redevelopment work I, for one, am excited about being able to take cover in luxury. As well as the big developments, there are also some changes to the more unique parts of the city; including Great Western Arcade and John Bright Street. Added to that, The Wedding Club – based in Edgbaston – is becoming one of

Europe’s most famous wedding shops thanks to the arrival of BERTA bridal. If you haven’t seen the dresses, Google them right now! Brand message number four: If you’ve got money to invest, do it in Birmingham It’s not just shopping that’s getting a re-vamp; there are new restaurants due to open at The Cube and the NIA will have its brand new look, with the help of Barclaycard, next year. A little further out of town, 2015 will also see the opening of Resorts World at the NEC; a fabulous new hotel, casino, conference centre and retail park. All of this investment in the city’s infrastructure – a quick mention for HS2 and the tram here – has seen big businesses turning their attention to Birmingham. The technology department for ASOS is now down at the Custard Factory, and Deutsche Bank seems to enjoy its new home in Brindleyplace. Brand message number five: Birmingham is the city to carve out your career Just take a look at this year’s Birmingham Young Professional of the Year shortlist and you’ll see the wealth of talent in the city’s business and professional services sector. I’ve been involved with Birmingham Future for seven years and it really is a fantastic way to raise your profile, develop yourself professionally, and meet new people. This one, in particular, is close to my heart as it’s the city I’ve chosen to start my business and I’m loving every second.

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STYLE SOCIAL

DAN’S OLD SKOOL NIGHT

Dan is the breakfast show presenter on Capital FM. He also did the same job at Galaxy 102.2 before the Capital rebrand and Choice FM before that, as well as a four-year stint in Dubai on radio and in clubs. A lover of Old Skool House and R’n’B, now is a great time for Dan. The Nineties and Noughties are making a big comeback, with shows like The Big Reunion on ITV and the Old Skool sound making its presence felt in the Top 40 recently. The likes of Chase & Status, Route 94 and Disclosure have all had recent releases with their roots stuck firmly in this sound. Hear Dan’s tracklist at ‘90s & Noughties’ night at Stirlings Bar in the Jewellery Quarter on Bank Holiday Sunday April 20 and May 25. He’s also at Velvet Rooms on Broad Street on the first Saturday of each month as well as other bars, clubs and venues around the region.

BACK TO THE FUTURE Wi t h pa s s io n fo r th e Nine ti es runni ng hi gh r i ght now, we aske d Ca p i ta l F M b r e ak fas t s h ow pre s enter Dan Kelly to pi ck hi s favour i te t rac ks fro m the ‘90 s and Noughti es Donnell Jones: U know what’s up One of, if not the biggest song of Donell’s career came towards the end of 1999. If any song from this era defines the sound of R’n’B at the time, this is it. Lauryn Hill: Doo Wop (That Thing) The enigmatic Lauryn Hill has never been far from controversy away from the mic, but on it she was one of the most gifted songwriters of recent generations. General Levy: Incredible School was never the same after this got released in 1994. Lunchtime footy sessions were soon replaced by trying to recite the lyrics to this Jungle classic that almost brought the roof down last time I played it out! Usher: You Make Me Wanna… Baby faced and only 18 at the time, Usher’s first UK No 1 in 1998 set him on the path to superstardom. It also meant

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unfortunately he was going to be around 13 years later to discover Justin Beiber. TLC: Creep The biggest selling female trio of all time release one of their biggest singles of all time from the biggest album. Say no more. Aaliyah: Rock the boat A summer classic, this was also the video Aaliyah had been filming for on the day of her fateful plane crash on the way back from the Bahamas in 2002. Kenny "Dope" Presents: The Bucketheads: The Bomb Simply put, this record is one the seminal dance tracks of the ‘90s. Made by Kenny Dope from Masters at Work who are still going strong as ever today. Paul Johnson: Get get down Classic cut from Defected. One of the

most infectious songs of the decade which doesn’t sound out of place today either. Mr Vegas & B15 Project: Birmingham Crew Mash it up Mash it up The Birmingham Crew! Recently released after being packed away in DJ’s boxes as a bootleg for 15 years you can finally own a good quality copy of the Birmingham anthem first heard on Choice FM back in 1998. Robin S: Show Me Love A bit of an obvious one but people still have so much love for this track, constant remixes still litter our digital record stores which makes this one of the biggest classics EVER.

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STYLE MEETS...

KATIE HALL We caught up with rising star Katie Hall for the inside track on what it ’s like to take the role of Maria in Arthur Laurent ’s new production of West Side Story How does an English rose become a Puerto Rican teen in love? Katie Hall’s transformation into West Side Story’s leading lady Maria involves fake tan and a brunette wig, but most importantly, a true passion for the part. Hall talks to Style Birmingham about life on the road, tears in the dressing room and her lifelong love of musical theatre. You’ve worked on Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera, how does West Side Story compare to these huge shows? West Side Story is definitely my favourite show I’ve ever worked on. I didn’t think that this part would suit me as well as it does, but she’s such a real character. No matter how tired I am, I’m still excited to do the show every night. How do you get into the character of Maria, especially with her being Puerto Rican? I have a wig, and have to have a spray tan once a week because I’m blonde and quite pale. Our director, Joey mcKneely, is really helpful at talking us through the characters’ situations, like what it would be like coming over from Puerto Rico in america at that time. We’ve gone quite deep into it, and had a dialect coach, so I like to think we’ve got it pretty sorted by now. Do you find it difficult to switch off from being Maria after the show? I did, especially after the last scene. It’s so intense that when I first started doing the show, I’d come off and have to have a good cry. But I’ve got that under wraps now. It’s quite easy to tap in and out of being maria, but there’s still an awful lot of adrenaline after the show so it takes a while to wind down. Working with producer Joey McKneely, former assistant to Jerome Robbins, who conceived West Side Story, did you feel like you were getting first hand experience of the original production? It was absolutely amazing working with Joey – to see how specific the choreography is and how there is an emotion behind every step is fascinating to watch; they’re not just dancing, they’re telling a story. That’s what’s so amazing about Jerome’s

choreography and Joey’s direction, there’s no way you’re going to be allowed to misinterpret it on stage. West Side Story, which debuted on Broadway in 1957, is based loosely on Romeo & Juliet, written 360 years earlier. Do you feel like the story of divided groups and star crossed lovers is still realistic in 2014? I think so, yes. One thing people have said that’s not quite so believable is that Tony and maria fall in love awfully quickly. But they’re supposed to be young, at 16 you can feel like it has happened like that and be swept along, it all feels fairly quick. What’s it like as a touring actress to travel the country? This is my third year on tour, so I’m getting pretty used to it by now. I miss my family quite a lot, but I enjoy seeing different parts of the country and coming back to places that I’ve been to before. It knits the company closer together; we are living and working with each other and are effectively a family. We become really close, and I really enjoy that. Did your operatic family background spark your love of musical theatre, or would you still have the same passion without them? Because I’ve always grown up around singing, you’d expect me to fall into the opera thing, but I haven’t at all. I’ve always been firmly into musical theatre. That’s always been my passion, there’s something inside me that’s had a love of musicals ever since I can remember. Is there a particular direction you’d like to take your career in for the future? musicals are where it’s at for me at the moment, but I’d like to do some plays, I’m really enjoying the acting side of things. In the future, I’d like to step away from the soprano roles within musical theatre and maybe do some comedy. In the very, very distant future, I’d like to have a go at opera. I really have found a love for it on my own. They’re very particular in opera, so I’d have to do a lot of work to convince them that I was good enough. West Side Story is on from April 1 to April 19 at the New Alexandra Theatre. Tickets available at atgtickets.com.

Inte rvi ew by Isabel l a Silvers issue 38

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STYLE SOCIAL

STYLE MEETS…

CHRIS RAMSEY

S ta nd -up c o me d ian C h r i s R amsey tells Style B i r mi ngham’s A b b ey H a rtley ab out h is latest tour , a p o ssi ble thi r d ser i es of Hebburn and causi ng offence on li ve TV... I’ve just finished my third national tour, The Most Dangerous Man on Saturday Morning Television. The name refers to the now infamous time of when I was booted off Soccer AM. I’m banned for life from that show. I didn’t say anything that terrible and I didn’t swear but I understand that I shouldn’t have said it. I just got a bit carried away. A lot of people thought it was really funny. The whole situation was so ridiculous. I turned to my manager jokingly: “We should call my next tour The Most Dangerous Man on Saturday Morning Television.” He replied: “Yeah, we should. Let’s do it!” At first, everybody thought we weren’t serious, but everything fell into place because of the foundation of that story.

crowds are always buzzing. I think it’s because of the rich mixture and diversity of the city. Birmingham is like the Holy Grail for me. It’s got the Glee Club which is one of the best comedy clubs. When I started out, getting a spot at the Glee Club was a big thing and when I did I was over the moon. I’m gutted I can’t perform at the Glee Club anymore. Selling out large venues means I can’t do intimate gigs like that now. For three nights in a row, I hosted there while Lee Evans was trying out new stuff. It was amazing!

I thought if I’m not going on that show again, I’m getting everything I can out of this. I made the best out of a bad situation. I think the tour’s name mirrors exactly what happened and makes fun of how exaggerated it all was.

I still don’t think of myself as a famous comedian. I take each step at a time and keep on going. I’m never happy with where I’m at and continuously aim higher and higher. When I first got my spot at the Glee Club, I strived to host it and then headline it. After that I wanted to do even bigger arenas. I’m not competitive. I never care about winning. I just want to be better than the last version of me.

There’s a lot of talk at the moment about what the next year is going to look like. I’m still waiting to hear about a third series of Hebburn. Apparently we will find out shortly but I try not to worry about it. There’s no point in worrying. It’s not going to change anything. I’d love to be part of the show again but if it doesn’t happen then I’ll do something else.

I have always wanted to make people laugh. I remember when I used to meet my mates at the cinema and I’d always have something funny to say prepared in my head. I didn’t realise you could just do stand-up. I always thought it was something famous guys did just to have a go at, like Billy Connolly and Lee Evans who were in Hollywood movies.

Birmingham audiences are incredible. If any city can have a laugh, then it’s the people of Birmingham. Their

My mate, Carl Hutchinson, who supported me on tour, got me into stand-up. He signed up for an open

mic night. At first I thought he meant singing but it turned out to be comedy. I didn’t know you could just turn up and do stand-up! A month later, I also performed at the open mic night. I went away and wrote material down, just like I did as a kid before I met my mates at the cinema. Except I perform for an hour and a half instead of just five minutes now. If I wasn’t a comedian I would have loved to be a zookeeper. I said it on Sunday Brunch once and then this zoo contacted my management inviting me to be one of their zookeepers for the day. It was great! The best moment of my career so far was when I got nominated for the Edinburgh Comedy Award in 2011. That was a big deal for me even though I didn’t win. Being nominated for that prize means I am now a proper, critically-acclaimed, stand-up comedian. No one can take that away from me. One of the worst experiences I’ve had on stage was at the roughest pub I’ve ever seen. It was called The Wasp’s Nest. I was just starting out and probably got £30 for this gig, which had no lighting, no microphone and no stage. Not a single poster was up promoting the comedy night so nobody knew it was on. The chairs were all facing different ways. So imagine the reaction I got when I stood up in the middle of this pub, on a Saturday night, telling jokes. Not a good one! The punters were all furious.

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style social

STYLE MEETS...

LISA FAULKNER Successful actress, Celebrity MasterChef winner, cookbook author: Lisa Faulkner is all this and more, as Sarah Drew Jones discovered

Her acting CV boasts the likes of Spooks, Brookside, Holby City and Burn It, but these days, Lisa Faulkner, 41, is enjoying a new challenge as a chef, foodie and author of bestselling cookbooks. after winning Celebrity MasterChef in 2010, Lisa went on to present food shows including What’s Cooking? and The Real Food Family Cook-Off, and will this summer appear at the BBC good Food Show at the NEC. Now in a relationship with MasterChef supremo John Torode, Lisa lives in London with her seven-year-old daughter, Billie. Food is all about love. To me, it’s never been just about putting fuel and energy into the body. It’s all about gathering together with friends and family: I think this is how we create and share memories, by sitting down to eat and spend our time together. Cooking is such a lovely way of being with the people you love. Winning MasterChef in 2010 was an enormous challenge and an amazing, fantastic life experience. I always say that I loved and hated it in equal measure! It was hard work but what was interesting to me was that I quickly fell in love with doing the hard work. I’d come home every night and cook and cook, working out how to make things better and do something differently. It takes over your life, but I got so much pleasure from it. But then, nothing in my life has felt like it came easily. I believe that if you want something, you have to be prepared to put the hours and effort in. The reward is so much greater and all the work becomes worth it. I enjoyed writing my cookery books and I’m writing my third at the moment. The process has been all about working out what I want to say. Some ideas come easy and some don’t. I’m a big fan of recipe books but they have to have a narrative, a story to capture your interest. Working with food all day, I’m lucky that I don’t put on weight easily. I think it’s because I just taste rather than eat a good deal of what I’m cooking! I love eating well, but I’ve always had small portions so maybe that’s the secret because I never try to lose weight. I’ve got one of those annoying metabolisms that doesn’t pile on the pounds. my friends are forever saying ‘well, it’s alright for you!’ My food passion right now is butchery and learning all the different cuts of meat and how to cure and cook them. It’s about food sourcing and appreciating where our food comes from. I’m trying to teach my daughter Billie, who’s seven, to respect food and to know that she’s eating an animal and it’s not always going to look bland and packaged. I want her to understand what real meat is, where it’s from, that we don’t eat it all the time, and most importantly that it’s better to eat the best cut of meat a couple of times a week than cheap cuts every day. My daughter isn’t fussy around food, and she loves to cook and eat. She likes to make soups and salads, and she’s started to say ‘I’ll make dinner’,

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which makes me smile! With my help and supervision she’s made pretty much everything on a couple of occasions. It’s nice for her to have a sense of independence and a say in what she eats, and we eat healthily, with the occasional supper of fish fingers and potato wedges! But it’s great when she says she wants to make potato salad or something, because it means she’s getting excited by cooking real food. I love being around foodies. I’m hosting the Summer Kitchen show at The BBC good Food Show this summer and we’re going to have lots of TV chefs, past winners of MasterChef and some up and coming chefs, so it’ll be an exciting mix of demonstrations and advice. For me, the appeal is in watching people cooking and asking them loads of questions. The show is always great fun because you’re with foodies all the time and can talk food and taste new dishes and grab some bargains, too. I love exploring the independent producers: the people who have worked hard to

keep their cottage industries going. We should always support them. I haven’t given up acting just because I’m busy with my cooking career. I don’t think of it as one replacing the other: I’m still very much doing both. If a job or an audition came along that I wanted to do, I’d be absolutely up for it. I’ve been so busy with the food projects over the last few years that I just haven’t had time to think about what role I’d really like to do. maybe something no-one would expect from me, a character that’s very different from me. at this stage in my career, I’d rather do a tiny part in a film that really challenged me than take on a part in a soap opera that I could do standing on my head! I’d quite like that feeling of being scared again. Lisa’s books are Recipes from my mother for my daughter and The way I cook (both Simon & Schuster). The BBC Good Food Show is at the NEC Birmingham from June 12 – 15: for information and tickets go to bbcgoodfoodshowsummer.com

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STYLE SOCIAL

FOOD & DRINK NE WS

lunch date

SPRING SALAD Ready for a break from all those chocolate eggs and rich cake? Balance them out with this fantastically fresh and simple salad

You’ll need: 400g fresh purple sprouting broccoli 300g fresh British asparagus 200g fresh radish 200g fresh podded peas 100g sesame seeds 50ml rapeseed, grapeseed or other vegetable oil Zest and juice of 1 lime 2 tbsp soya sauce Half tsp sugar Sea salt and pepper

Serves 4 Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes

What to do: 1. Firstly prepare the vegetables. Wash and trim the purple sprouting broccoli, the asparagus and the radish. Slice the broccoli and asparagus into 3 cm pieces, and slice the radish thinly. Place the radish in a bowl of cold water.

Think Pizza Express is just for dinner, dates and weekend treats? Not any more, now that it’s launched an extensive new lunchtime menu. From tasty soups to perfectly proportioned pizzas, the new menu gives busy people an excuse to escape for a quick and inexpensive lunch. There are new dishes – such as Piadinas, bread pocket sandwiches made using Pizza Express’ famous dough – and lunchtime-sized versions of the old favourites. Our tip? Order the mini side dishes, including half portions of dough balls, rosemary infused polenta chips and a crunchy, zesty coleslaw. You can eat in or take away from Monday to Friday: prices from £3.45 to just £5.95.

METRO BAR COCKTAIL GIN AND ELDERFLOWER MOJITO

ingredients

2. Using a double layered steamer, boil some water and steam the purple sprouting broccoli, the asparagus pieces and the peas for approximately 5-7 minutes. The vegetables should be quite tender, but still green and slightly crisp. Remove the vegetables from the steamer and set aside to cool on a clean preparation tray.

35ml Gordon’s Gin 15ml elderflower liqueur 20ml lime juice 8-10 mint leaves Crushed ice

3. In a little jug mix together the sesame seeds, rapeseed oil, zest and juice of the lime, the soy sauce, sugar, a pinch of sea salt and a generous grating of black pepper.

Collins

4. In a roomy salad bowl, mix together the steamed purple sprouting broccoli, asparagus and peas. Add the drained radish slices. 5. Add the soy and lime dressing. Toss the salad well. Serve. * For more salad and vegetable ideas, visit loveyourgreens.co.uk

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E L Y T S LOVES

Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2013 (£12.49, Waitrose) is the perfect blend of light fruity notes and a fresh mineral buzz. Perfect for weekend drinking and great with salads and fish dishes.

glass method

Pour lime juice into the glass, add the mint and mix. Half fill the glass with crushed ice and pour gin and mix well. Next fill the glass to the top with ice, pour in elderflower liqueur and top with soda. Garnish with a mint sprig and two small straws.

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EASTERtreats Organic Booja Hazelnut Crunch Truffle Egg, £12.99 large or £5.99 small, Holland & Barrett

Elizabeth Shaw Large Crisp Collection Egg, with 24 chocolates, £10, Tesco, Asda and Waitrose

Colomba traditional Italian Easter cake, £13.95, Carluccio’s in Brindleyplace

Lindt Heavenly Hazelnut, £19.99, supermarkets

EASTER COOKIES These oh-so-pretty biscuits make any spring celebration burst with colour

You’ll need 200g unsalted butter 200g caster sugar 1 free range Happy Egg (supermarkets) 400g plain flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon mixed spice

The Kenwood kMix Stand Mixer comes in a range of bright colours, £399.

ST Y L LOVE E S

POP IN Award-winning gourmet popcorn brand Joe & Seph’s has created a new flavour this Easter for an alternative to the traditional chocolate egg: Trio of Chocolate, with all natural ingredients and extralarge corn pieces. Find at Ocado, Whole Foods Market and Harvey Nichols for £2.99.

TO MAKE THE SPECKLED EGG COOKIES Make cookie dough: beat the butter and sugar together. Add the egg and vanilla. Beat again. Sift the flour, salt and spice together. Add to mixture and beat again till the mixture comes together in a ball. Wrap in cling film and chill in fridge for 1 hour. Roll out on a floured surface to 4mm thick. Cut out the egg shape with your cookie cutter. Place on a baking tray and chill in the freezer for 20 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven (180C conventional oven or 160 C fan oven) for 10 – 15 minutes, until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. Take out and leave to cool. Make royal icing: Beat the white of one egg with 250g of icing sugar and 5 drops of lemon juice for 5 minutes on slow in a mixer. Colour the royal icing with a blue food colour. Using a No2 piping tip, pipe a line of royal icing around the edge of the cookies. Thin the remaining icing with lemon juice ‘til it’s the consistency of single cream, and put about 2 teaspoons in the middle of the cookie. Carefully spread it out to the piped line using a toothpick. Take a pinch of metallic edible dust, and sprinkle onto the cookie. Leave to dry.

TO MAKE THE SPARKLING CHICK COOKIES Make cookie dough as above. When you have rolled out the dough, cut out the chick shape with your cookie cutter. Place on a baking tray and chill in the freezer for 20 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven (160 C) for 10 – 15 minutes, until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. Take out and leave to cool. Make royal icing as above. Colour the royal icing with a yellow food colour. Using a No2 piping tip, pipe a line of royal icing around the edge of the cookies, leaving space at the base for the legs. Pipe a triangle for the beak. Pipe the legs. Thin the remaining icing with lemon juice until it’s the consistency of single cream, and put about 2 teaspoons in the middle of the cookie. Carefully spread it out to the piped line using a toothpick. Place a black dragee for the eye. Mix some yellow edible dust with Sparkling Sugar to colour it yellow. Sprinkle over the cookie. Leave to dry.

* For more recipes, visit thehappyegg.co.uk

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NEWS ROUNDUP All the news from around the city

MiDlaNDS FaShiON aWaRDS SEEk TalENT attention fashion design creatives! Entries are now open for the sixth midlands Fashion awards 2014 and the model casting call has been announced, for Saturday may 17. New and emerging designers, make-up artists and stylists across Birmingham and the midlands region are given a chance to shine at this event. The theme this year is 2015 trends with designers able to create SS15 or aW15 collections. Successful designers will have their work shown as part of the mFa 2014 catwalk show in October. awards will also be presented including Fashion Designer of the Year, make-Up artist of the Year and Fashion Stylist of the Year. Entries for all categories close on may 4 and the mFa 2014 shortlist will be announced in June. For more information and terms and conditions, visit midlandsfashionawards.co.uk

NaTiONal viNTagE aWaRDS RETURN FOR SEcOND YEaR

NEED hElP WiTh YOUR TEchNOlOgY? Do you ever get really frustrated when dealing with issue like updating your PC, iPhone or tablet? Do you know anyone in your family who is a technophobe and could really do with some help getting into the technology age? Well look no further, a super smart IT company led by students has spotted a gap in the market by paying students to support people with their IT needs. Student@Home which is a London based company have launched in Birmingham this month. Offering computer help for all ages and levels of experience covering virus removal, data back-up, email syncing, Wi-fi set-up and more. They also provide one-to-one or group tuition on any aspect of using computers, mobiles and tablets to people of any age aiming to bring support to anyone struggling with their technology from setting up and using email to paying bills online; no problem is considered to big or small. Student@Home was introduced to the UK by Kelly Klein, a former JP morgan banker. ‘’We are literally enabling hundreds of people to gain confidence with technology and become tech savvy’’.

The National Vintage awards return to Birmingham for the second time this June, to celebrate the small independent businesses that keep the vintage scene alive. With categories including Best Vintage Fair, Best Regional Fashion Shop and Best Online Vintage Shop, there were more than 70 nominations made in 2013 and 13,000 public votes cast. Nominations for this year’s awards closed in march ready for public voting to commence in may. The businesses shortlisted for an award will be announced on June 1, with the ceremony itself taking place at Fazeley Studios in Digbeth on June 19. To vote, buy tickets or for more information, visit thenationalvintageawards.co.uk

Students are loving helping out too as they feel they are making a contribution to the community. avinash Patel says it’s ‘’so rewarding being able to share my IT knowledge with people and see what a difference my help and encouragement makes to their lives. People are able to learn new skills quickly and it is great to see them build their confidence in using and understanding IT’’. For a monthly membership fee of £2, Student@Home customers can book appointments at any time, seven days a week. an hour’s appointment costs £30 - less than half the price of most IT support services.

We’re giving away two VIP tickets to the National WIN Vintage awards! Enter the competition at TICKETS stylebirminghammag.com before June 12.

iNTERNaTiONal DaNcE FESTival BiRMiNghaM 2014

The event, taking place from april 24-may 25, is produced by DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome to present a world-class programme of performance and participation across the city. IDFB 2014 reflects the diversity and internationalism of dance with choreographers and artists from around the globe. after just three previous editions, it is already one of the largest dance festivals in the world. Retaining its strong international focus, IDFB 2014 will celebrate artistic excellence and express the youthful, diverse and energetic spirit of Birmingham. For a full programme of events across the four weeks, visit idfb.co.uk/whats-on

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m*A*d*e BirminGhAm

Worldwide electronic music brand, Global Gathering Group and the multiple club warehouse, Rainbow Venues, have joined forces to bring a fresh and exciting new event to Birmingham. M*A*D*E will present a multi-genre music festival featuring some of the UK’s most distinguished club brands including UKF Live, Viva Warriors and Seedy Sonics alongside headliners Chase & Status, Annie Mac, MK and Netsky. From May 2-5 across the Digbeth Entertainment District, M*A*D*E will showcase Birmingham’s reputation as a groundbreaking, innovative and diverse creative city. Day tickets are from £21.50 and night tickets from £15. For a full programme of events and to purchase tickets, visit m-a-d-e.com

Third AnnuAl CBd CommuniTy GAmes

The Colmore Business District hosts its annual Community Games for the third year in May. This sporting event is packed full of fun activities to try out or to simply spectate. Last year, England Hockey, British Rowing and Canoe England participated in the games with visitors, creating an enjoyable day out for all. The event will take place in Birmingham’s Victoria Square on May 9 from 10am-4pm. Visit colmorebusinessdistrict.com for more information.

W TICKIN ETS

We’re giving away a pair of tickets for each day at M*A*D*E! Enter the competition at stylebirminghammag.com before April 23.

BirminGhAm Pride 2014

The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender festival comes to Birmingham for Spring Bank Holiday Weekend on May 24-25. It is the largest LGBT two-day festival in the UK, being held annually in the Gay Village on Hurst Street. There will be a Carnival Parade through the city centre, as well as the Main Pride Festival Stage, a dance arena, cabaret marquee, funfair and community village green. Day tickets are £7 and weekend tickets are £10, which are available to purchase from birminghampride.com

BirminGhAm’s uB40 reTurn To The CiTy

UB40, who were formed in Birmingham, are playing their biggest UK tour for over three years this spring. The tour follows the success of the band’s latest top 30 album, Getting Over The Storm, which was awarded BBC Radio 2’s Album of the Week. The reggae stars are performing 14 shows across the UK, with a sold out hometown gig on the final night of the tour at The Institute on April 18. Luckily, a new date has been added on April 19 for those of you who haven’t bought tickets yet. Tickets are £28.50 and available to purchase from mamacolive.com

sT GeorGe’s dAy CeleBrATions

Every year, Birmingham celebrates St George’s Day with a family friendly festival where everyone is welcome. On April 20 from 11am-5pm, numerous activities will be held in Victoria Square and Chamberlain Square including arts and crafts, live music, face painting and a market. The night before on April 19, St George’s Day Annual Concert will take place at the Symphony Hall, where money raised will go to the charity, Troop Aid. Ticket prices are between £5-£18 and available to purchase by calling 0121 345 0603.

sPrinG FAshion Fix AT The BullrinG

It’s time to unleash a spectrum of colour into your wardrobe, packing away the muted tones of winter and embracing the bright, bold and warm colours of spring. On April 17, Spring Fashion Fix comes to the Bullring with a day of fashion master classes, colour matching how-tos and complementary beauty treatments plus in-store activity and discounts. The Bullring will become your hub for all things SS14! You’ll be able to take inspiration from the Style Fix workshops, where a fashion expert will demonstrate how to wear some of this season’s most talked about trends, whilst the Beauty Fix pods will be offering free pampering treatments. Visit bullring.co.uk/SFF for more information and a full programme of events. Image courtesy of OFFICE issue 38

STYLE SOCIAL

RETAIL BIRMINGHAM AWARD

WINNERS 2014 The city’s finest retailers came out in force to celebrate their award s for outstanding customer service

Great Western Arcade

Selfridges Visual Merchandising Team, with ITV’s Alison Hammond

Retail Birmingham, the Business Improvement District (BID) that represents over 1,000 city centre businesses, have announced the winners in its prestigious Retail Birmingham Awards 2014. The awards, sponsored by the National Skills Academy for Retail at Solihull College recognised retailers and individuals working in Birmingham city centre for excellence in customer service, team work, emerging talent and leading in industry standards. Over 500 votes were received from the public and the top five winners were chosen by a panel of industry and media experts including Jonathan

Loki Wine

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Marks & Spencer

Cheetham Chair of Retail Birmingham; Shaun Hindle Director of Employment and Skills, National Skills Academy; Stacey Barnfield Editor of the Birmingham Post and Assistant Director of Employment at Birmingham City Council, Shilpi Akbar. All the winners received a surprise visit in-store from ITV’s This Morning presenter Alison Hammond, where they were presented with their award trophy. In addition to the category winners over 100 retail staff were recognised at a breakfast ceremony held at Malmaison at The Mailbox. Jonathan Cheetham, Chair of Retail Birmingham,

The Liquor Store

said: “We had a terrific response from city centre shoppers, who voted for individuals and businesses that demonstrated outstanding customer service. It was a very difficult task for the judges to pick the overall winners as the standards were so high and we felt all of the nominated individuals from both large and small retailers were worthy of having their achievements recognised.’ Shaun Hindle, Senior Director of Employment and Skills at Solihull College, added: “It was an honour to sponsor Retail Awards 2014 and to be a part of the Judging process. The high calibre of retail people coming through is a real credit to the retail sector in Birmingham”

House of Fraser

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Boots

Marks & Spencer

Piccadilly Arcade

Loki Wine

Lush

Onyx Jewellers

Handmade Boutique

Smithsonia

Evolution

TM Lewin

Category Winners Piccadilly Opticians

Solihull College

Retail Team of the Year – Visual Merchandising Team at Selfridges

Suttons & Robertsons

Retail Talent of the Year (under 25) - Jacob Young, The Liquor Store, Great Western Arcade Retail Person of the Year – James Middleton, M&S, High Street Outstanding Customer Service (Independent Retailer) – Loki Wine, Great Western Arcade

Waterstones

Outstanding Customer Service (Major Retailer) – House of Fraser, Corporation Street A short film of the award winners, presented by Alison Hammond, can be seen at www.shoppinginbirmingham.com

Slaters

Staying Cool

The Liquor Store

Harvey Nichols

Jonathan Cheetham (Retail Birmingham)

Rex Johnson & Sons

Selfridges

Black/PC World

Hotel Chocolat

Thorntons

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BEST

VEGETARIAN FOOD Ort Café

IN THE CITY

A s t r i ct v e g e tarian d ie t can m ake eati ng out a challenge . Lucki ly, B i rm i n g ha m h a s p lenty o f c re ative culi nary op ti ons, as C eli a Palmer di sc ov ered

CHERRY REDS The original café is in Kings Heath, and a new one has popped up in the centre of Birmingham recently too, which quite frankly is a miracle. I cannot recommend this place enough. The menu is reasonably priced and original, and the specials are fantastic too. From superb veggie breakfasts to hands down the most incredible nachos I’ve ever had, this café has it all. The small, quaint charm of the Kings Heath branch is perfect for a romantic lunch, or venture out to the bigger Birmingham Centre café to chill out with a few friends.

Or a refreshing lime and mint Cuffufle Cordial, made with fresh, ethically sourced ingredients (of course!). And if you’re having trouble finding groceries and household products that adhere to your lifestyle, why not mooch in 100% Vegan next door? FIND IT AT: Alison St, Digbeth.

ORT CAFÉ Ort Café isn’t simply a café; it’s a community haven that holds exhibitions, workshops, music events and even free language lessons. The menu isn’t extensive, but it’s nearly exclusively vegetarian and homemade. Why not try out the tempting veggie breakfast, served with paneer! FIND IT AT: Moseley Rd, Balsall Heath.

BISTRO 1847 Set in the beautiful Great Western Arcade amongst art galleries and independent shops, this simplistic Bistro is timeless. It is refreshing to finally have a fine dining establishment in the heart of Birmingham that is exclusively vegetarian and vegan. Even the drink selection is completely vegan, which is very difficult to come by! The Bistro also offers a Supper Club, Cookery School and will soon even be opening an ‘Online Pantry’. Perfect for those who are looking to expand on their culinary expertise.

FIND IT AT: York Road, Kings Heath/John Bright St, Birmingham Centre.

WAREHOUSE CAFÉ This is the original vegetarian café in Birmingham. The café has been running for nearly 30 years, so you can expect the most beautiful vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Can I tempt you with the aptly named ‘Digbeth Dall’?

FIND IT AT: Great Western Arcade, Colmore Row.

CAFÉ SOYA As the name suggests, this modern café hidden in the Chinese Quarter has a lot of vegetarian dishes using the glorious soy bean. Its tofu-tastic! With a mix of Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, the menu has a lot to offer, whether you want a quick lunch or an evening meal. And the refreshing bubble teas are particularly good after a hard day’s work. FIND IT AT: Arcadian, 70 Hurst Walk.

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happy days

Birmingham Hippodrome, April 22-26 Happy Days is a brand new musical based on the hit TV series. Join your favourite 50s family, the Cunninghams, as they battle to save their beloved diner, Arnold’s, from demolition. The musical is written by Garry Marshall, who has directed smash hit films Pretty Woman and The Princess Diaries. The show also stars Sugababe Heidi Range, who plays Pinky Tuscadero. This hilarious feel-good performance is guaranteed to have you rockin’ and rollin’! Tickets are available from birminghamhippodrometickets. com with prices starting at £15.

Lord of the fLies

Birmingham Hippodrome, May 14-17 Matthew Bourne has created some of the most successful shows of the last 25 years including Swan Lake and Nutcracker, now his Lord of the Flies is coming to Birmingham. Based on the classic novel by William Golding, schoolboys find themselves abandoned in a deserted theatre. Scott Ambler’s choreography and young talent from the West Midlands bring the characters to life with raw energy and intensifying emotion. Tickets for this breath taking performance start at £15 and are available to purchase from birminghamhippodrometickets.com

20th Century Boy

New Alexandra Theatre, April 28-May 3 Smash hit musical, 20th Century Boy, is coming to the New Alexandra Theatre at the end of April. With a starstudded cast including West End performer, Warren Sollars, Coronation Street’s Sue Jenkins and Waterloo Road’s Luke Bailey, this is a performance not to be missed. The musical is based on glam rock legend, Marc Bolan, whilst showcasing a classic 70s soundtrack. Tickets start at £12.90 and are available to purchase from atgtickets.com

WHAT’S ON

theatre Cirque du soLeiL: draLion

LG Arena, May 22-25 Cirque Du Soleil fuses acrobatic arts with circus acts to create dramatic and exciting performances, artistically entertaining more than 100 million spectators worldwide. In its Dralion show, the four elements of air, water, fire and earth are embodied with evocative colour. In the world of Dralion, cultures blend where man and nature are one. Book your seats quickly for this spectacular performance. Tickets are available to purchase from lgarena. co.uk for £56.70.

VinCent and fLaVia: danCe ‘tiL dawn

New Alexandra Theatre, April 21-26 Strictly Come Dancing favourites, Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace, are back with a brand new show, Dance ‘Til Dawn. After wowing audiences across the country with Midnight Tango, the dazzling duo return in a sensational dance show straight from the Golden Age of Hollywood. You’ll be transported to a time of elegance with stunning sets, a live band, flawless footwork and spellbinding choreography. Tickets start at £17.90 from atgtickets.com

roCk of ages

New Alexandra Theatre, May 12-17 Rock fans are in for a treat with this 80s-themed musical. After five years on Broadway and three years on London’s West End, Rock of Ages is touring across the UK, including Birmingham. Iconic rock tunes such as The Final Countdown, Can’t Fight This Feeling and Don’t Stop Believin’ will get you up on your feet singing along. Tickets are from £12.90 at atgtickets.com

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style social

Miranda Hart: My, WHat i Call, live SHoW

noW tHat’S WHat i Call Carl donnelly

National Indoor Arena, April 18-21 Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean’s final tour of Dancing on Ice comes to Birmingham in april. after winning Olympic gold with their Bolero performance 30 years ago, Torvill and Dean are still skating strong. They will be joined by some of the show’s final series contestants including Beth Tweddle, Hayley Tamaddon and Ray Quinn. Ticket prices begin at £36 and are available to purchase from theticketfactory.com

Glee Club Birmingham, June 6 Edinburgh Comedy award Nominee, Carl Donnelly, brings his critically acclaimed sell-out Edinburgh show to Birmingham in June. He has previously appeared on mock The Week and Russell Howard’s good News with his humour. Now That’s What I Call Carl Donnelly is filled with hilarious anecdotes and observations on the state of the world. Buy your tickets from glee.co.uk for £11.

WHAT’S ON

oUt & aBoUt

SUperSoniC FeStival

Custard Factory, May 30-31 For one weekend each year, Digbeth vibrates with strange and wonderful sounds as the Custard Factory becomes the focal point for one of the UK’s most distinctive and respected music festivals. Supersonic Festival is back by popular demand after a successful ten years of existence. Discerning music fans will unite and embrace eclectic tastes over the weekend. Only 400 tickets are available for just £45 each, so grab them while you can at ticketsellers.co.uk

Image by Richard Lambert

danCing on iCe

National Indoor Arena, April 8-10 Star of BBC sitcom, miranda and BBC drama, Call the midwife, brings her first tour to the NIa. The British actress and comedienne has won two British Comedy awards and a Royal Television Society award for her comedy acting performances in miranda. Her my, What I Call, Live Show is certain to include lots of laughs. Tickets are £30.50 from theticketfactory.com

raiSe FUndS For tHe MidlandS air aMBUlanCe midlands air ambulance Charity will hold its annual Recognition awards and Charity Ball on Friday June 20, at Edgbaston Stadium to celebrate the charity’s unsung heroes, including supportive fundraisers, brave airlift patients and dedicated volunteers. The glittering evening will start with a drinks reception, complete with live music and the arrival of the service’s three famous air ambulance helicopters. guests will be treated to a four course meal, followed by a casino, auction, prestigious raffle and live entertainment. In addition, several of the charity’s celebrity and sporting ambassadors will be joining in with the celebrations: tickets are £75 or £750 for a table of ten and a limited number of sponsorship packages are still available, call 0800 8 40 20 40, email info@midlandsairambulance.com or visit midlandsairambulance.com

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an evening WitH JUlie andreWS

National Indoor Arena, May 24 The iconic star of stage and screen will be returning to the UK in may for a tour of speaking engagements. Dame Julie andrews is best known for her award-winning screen performances in mary Poppins and The Sound of music. Lucky fans will enjoy a special evening with the much-loved legend from the world of entertainment, which provides a rare and unique insight into her life and career. Ticket prices start at £34 and are available to purchase from theticketfactory.com

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LittLe Mix

LG Arena, May 16 This fresh-faced girl group has gone from strength to strength since winning The X Factor in 2011. They’ve broken the Spice Girls’ record of having the highest debut US chart position of a British girl group, with their first album, DNA. The fourpiece have sold more than three million singles and two million albums worldwide. Little Mix’s tour is sure to be full of poptastic tunes to get you up on your feet including DNA, Move and How Ya Doin’? alongside new tracks from their latest album, Salute. Girl power! Ticket prices start at £23.50 and are available to purchase from lgarena.co.uk

Gary BarLow

LG Arena, April 8, 19 Take That’s front man is bringing his solo tour, Since I Saw You Last, to Birmingham in April. Gary Barlow is one of the UK’s most successful singersongwriters, having written 13 number one singles and 23 top ten hits. The former X Factor judge will be performing his newest solo tracks such as Let Me Go and Face to Face. To the delight of Take That fans, he is bound to also include the group’s iconic songs: A Million Love Songs, Back for Good, Patience and Rule the World. Tickets are available from lgarena.co.uk with prices starting at £39.70.

WHAT’S ON

GeorGe ezra

Glee Club Birmingham, June 16 Up and coming singer and guitarist, George Ezra, is currently embarking on his first major headline UK tour. His breakthrough debut, Did You Hear the Rain?, was released late last year peaking at number 6 on the iTunes Album Chart. Its lead single, Budapest, was a radio favourite. George was then propelled into the top five of BBC Sound 2014, as well as onto Ones to Watch lists from Vevo and MTV. Catch him at the Glee Club in June for £13.75: gleeclub.co.uk

Music

Justin tiMBerLake

LG Arena, April 11-12 The President of pop is bringing his 20/20 Experience World Tour to Birmingham in April. Justin has come a long way since being the lead singer of boy band, N Sync. He’s gone on to sell more than 14 million copies of his first two albums, Justified and FutureSex/LoveSounds. The American singer has also received nine Grammy Awards and four Emmy Awards for his work. His tour is likely to bring back early songs, including Cry Me a River and Rock Your Body, as well as new tracks Suit & Tie and Mirrors from his latest album. Tickets prices begin at £56.20 from lgarena.co.uk

MiLey cyrus

National Indoor Arena, May 16 She’s the controversial ex-Disney Channel sweetheart that everyone’s been talking about this year. After twerking with Robin Thicke at the MTV VMAs 2013 and appearing naked in her music video for Wrecking Ball, Miley has caused quite a stir. The American superstar took time out in 2011 to focus on her acting career, but now she’s back bigger than ever with latest tracks We Can’t Stop and Adore You. Her explosive Bangerz World Tour is one not to be missed. Ticket prices start at £53.43: theticketfactory.com

McBusted

LG Arena, May 2-3, 17, 27 McFly and Busted have collaborated to provide a blast from the past! Two of the biggest British boy bands of the past two decades are coming together to perform their greatest hits. McFly’s All About You and Shine a Light, as well as Busted’s Air Hostess and Year 3000 are guaranteed to get the crowds singing and reliving old memories. With four tour dates to choose from, tickets are £44.20 and available from lgarena.co.uk

issue 38

WIN!

WIN A FLIGHT TO EGYPT WITH MONARCH We’ve teamed up with the airline, Monarch,

village, Hurghada has managed to retain its natural

to offer one lucky reader the chance to win

and historic charm, attracting thousands of visitors

one pair of return flights from Birmingham

each year.

to either Lanzarote, Gran Canaria,

The competition winner will fly with Monarch

Fuerteventura, Tenerife or – new for summer ’14 – Hurghada!

Airlines to their preferred destination. All Monarch customers are allocated a seat at check-

Monarch’s new route is the beautiful city of

in but for those wishing to select where in the cabin

Hurghada which lies on the Red Sea coast in

they sit, seats can be pre-booked. Extra legroom

Egypt. With golden sands and turquoise seas, this

seats are also available offering up to six inches of

is the perfect resort for a holiday in the sunshine.

extra space. Monarch aims to provide choice, value

Transformed in recent years from a small fishing

and superior customer care.

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of return flights enter online at stylebirminghamMAG.com Competition closes: Wednesday, May 31 2014. See online for terms and conditions.

issue 38

stylebirminghamMAG.com

Complimentary parking. When you shop, dine or get pampered.

pennyblacks Dine at Malmaison Brasserie, Harvey Nichols Espresso Caf茅, Bar Epernay, Strada, Pennyblacks, C么te Brasserie and visit Toni & Guy Essensuals or shop at Harvey Nichols to enjoy a minimum of 2 hours complimentary parking at The Mailbox. Terms and conditions apply. Please visit the website for full details.