Style Birmingham Issue 42

DECEMBER 2014 ISSUE 42 £2.95 WHERE SOLD

#PerfectChristmas

Read

The Mailbo x Christmas gift guide

STYLE WITH 007 Felicity Jones an in-depth interview with the Birmingham-born actress and rising star 010 Style chart your winter wardrobe here!

012 Christmas gift guide Yuletide inspiration for women, men, kids and your home

018 Happy Christmas from Harvey Nichols deluxe gifts and

gorgeous treats for all

036 Stocking fillers these terrific treats will always be welcome

ISSUE 42 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 e d i t o r Sarah Drew Jones a r t d i r e c t o r Mike Raven

041 Sparkling gifts looking for something super-special this year?

045 The Harvey Nichols AW14 fashion show welcome to your front row seat

046 The Midlands Fashion Awards 201 4 celebrating the region’s upcoming design talent

CONTRIBUTORS

Philip Ellis Lotty Harper Sarah Morris Elle Sixsmith Tara Tomes

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 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

STYLE FOR WOMEN 022 Fashion news stuck for ideas for what to wear this party season? Not any more…

025 Brand we love welcome to Skagen, the very best in Danish accessories 026 Baby, it’s cold outside Next shines this season, as our exclusive photoshoot shows

038 One LBD, two ways pair your little black dress with accents of gold and pink 039 Take a shine subtle sequins, fashion’s most fabulous micro-trend

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.

© publishing ink 2014

ON THE COVER: Luke wears: peacoat, £85, roll neck, £22, scarf, £16. Laura wears: tux jumpsuit, £55, jacket, £110, faux fur scarf, £25, necklace, £16, all from Next.

To see our exclusive photoshoot, go to page 26.

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042 Dark night classic black and goth glamour rule party season 043 Party prep made easy go from office to party in a few simple steps, says Sarah Morris 048 Festive and fabulous here’s how to style it up this Christmas, advises Lotty Harper

STYLE FOR BEAUTY 020 Christian Dior our exclusive interview with Dior’s fragrance expert Carl Groenewald

050 Beauty news the latest loveliness from Burberry, Dior, Bobbi Brown and more

053 The gift of beauty these gorgeous giftsets will make her smile on Christmas Day

056 Party girl it’s time for festive glamour 057 Make an impact we asked the experts at Royston Blythe for party hair tips and tricks

S T E A L Y O U R S E L F AWAY

STYLE FOR MEN 058 Style news for the man who has everything? We’ve got a few good ideas…

061 Night’s watch Harvey Nichols edits two key looks for party season

063 Fine and dandy ensure his Christmas is stylish, with these gift ideas from Clements & Church Still open, still luxurious, as we build a better Mailbox.

Merry Christmas FROM THE MAILBOX Tucked inside your issue of Style Birmingham you’ll find an extra-special guide to Christmas at The Mailbox, with gifts galore, luxury treats, festive pampering, decadent dining and more!

Visit mailboxlife.com for Christmas inspiration.

STYLE FOR HOMES 065 Home news fill your house with the spice and warming scents of winter

066 And so to bed create a cosy and comfortable bedroom sanctuary

STYLE FOR TRAVEL 069 Travel news inspiration, views, reviews and recommendations

STYLE SOCIAL 071 Food and drink news well, if you can’t indulge at Christmas, when can you?

072 Canapes for party season treats, eats and tasty bites, easy to prepare

075 Restaurant review we dined at Cielo and love, love, loved it!

078 Six stylish ways to see in 2015 courtesy of girl-about-town Tara Tomes

079 What’s on book now for these great gigs, shows, musicals, exhibitions and more

082 Competition your chance to win dinner in a four-star hotel!

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style exclusive

RISING STAR Bournville-born-and-bred and now one of the country’s hottest young actresses, Felicity Jones is set to go stellar with her new role in The Theory Of Everything, the story of Professor Stephen Hawking.

Here, Felicity talks about the film, what it’s like to star alongside Eddie Redmayne and how much she loves acting

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style exclusive

e caught up with Felicity onset at The Theory of Everything, the movie – due for release this month - that is sure to send her career global. Born and brought up in Bournville, 31-year-old Felicity enjoyed breakthrough roles in the Ricky Gervais film Cemetery Junction, Chalet Girl, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 and even a stint in The Archers. But it’s her starring role as Jane, first wife to Professor Stephen Hawking, played by Les Miserables star Eddie Redmayne, that is about to take her to another level. Here, in an exclusive peek behind the scenes, Felicity lifts the lid on this inspiring and fascinating film, and her preparation for the role.

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What was it like for you to work on this much-anticipated film?

It has been an incredible experience from start to finish. When I read the script, I loved that it was not a straightforward biopic. The movie was about the intimate side of Stephen Hawking’s life, with an incredible lead female character, Jane Hawking. And then after reading her book and meeting her, I was in awe of her enormous capacity to love another human being.

I just thought: ‘this is such a nuanced, complex character to play.’

Were you nervous to meet her?

Well, at first I was very intimidated. It is frightening. It is such a responsibility.

This is someone that you are going to be representing. It is their whole life.

And you are being entrusted with that. And there is a lot of trust. So at first I was a little bit cautious, but when I met Jane, well, she made my job so much easier. She is so rich with character and idiosyncrasy. There is a ladylike quality to her. She is very well presented. When I went to see her, I was fascinated by how she picks up a cup of tea. There is something almost queenly about it. So I went to watch footage of Queen Elizabeth to get that sense of her

character. It was very much a full frontal attack on getting the physicality too of Jane and her voice; it is a very highpitched one. I had the help of a dialect coach, which helped me to inhabit the exterior of this woman.

What did you like the most about her?

What I loved was that she had not only a vulnerability and softness, but at the same time there was this toughness, this inner strength, this core focus and determination. That duality was really interesting to me. She is warm, has her own sense of style and moves in a very particular way. She loves dance, so I wanted her to be almost like a ballerina in her first scenes, when she is young.

I thought about this 1950s idea of a woman who is perfectly presented, being very perceptible and likable, but underneath there is a really strong person. When I met her I realised that she is not a woman who is easily pushed over. She doesn’t take no for an answer.

with facts. Jane is also an academic, so they share that ideology, that way of communicating. They both love culture, they both love music. They have different favorite composers though.

They would often have arguments about who was better, if Stephen’s favorite Wagner or Jane’s Brahms. And if you listen to them they are the polar opposite of each other. Wagner is very bombastic and Brahms is much more emotional and searching, which shows the kind of people they were. I feel there was a Yin and Yang thing going on between them.

What do you think that Jane saw in Stephen that was so fascinating to her?

Well, it is a young love. And he is funny and charismatic. When you meet him it just pulls out of him. He is an incredible character. He is extremely bright; they are both intellectuals, very precise

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style exclusive

What was it like to work with Eddie?

We’ve seen each other work and respected it. We both started in theatre and with the director Michael Grande, in London. We have very similar attitudes to preparation. We both went to university, and have an academic approach, with lots of index and research. We were really lucky about how similar we were workwise.

Our goal was to entirely inhabit these characters. This was the exciting part. I really felt like I was talking to Stephen and I hope he felt like he was talking to Jane. Felicity and Eddie disappeared into these characters.

Eddie said that it was a unique experience to the point that you had to physically help his acting in certain scenes…

Absolutely. It was like nothing I’ve experienced before. That was from watching documentary footage that we would find while looking for clues.

We also looked at lots of photographs.

We were like detectives trying to find out how their behaviour affected their movement. Like when they were dancing together and Jane would be lifting Stephen’s arm or there is a moment in one documentary when Stephen is being fed Champagne on a spoon. We really wanted to put in the film those details, those realistic moments. Stephen and Jane were templates for us, and they were so rich, which was really exciting. I can imagine in certain cases getting to meet the real person it might throw you off but actually for both of us it deepened the experience.

reaction was: don’t judge us, please! A few weeks ago I was watching a piece of the extra footage. Stephen is watching Eddie perform himself before he was on the wheelchair, in his early 20s, and it just hit me: what a profound experience for everyone involved. For Jane as well.

You are seeing your early days being enacted in front of you. It must be an extraordinary experience. But they are so rock and roll! The fact that they even are ok with a film made about their lives shows that they are genuinely fearless.

Did you get any word from Jane on the movie?

Yes, I spoke with Jane on the phone and she was very complimentary about our performances and very genuinely moved by them. And she said I got her voice, which is such a key part of my characterisation. I thought if I could get her voice and her movement I could crack the character.

What was it like to work with director James Marsh?

He is phenomenal. He read Eddie and I so well. He knew that we were people that don’t like to be overly controlled. What James does, which is a sign of a great director, is to give you freedom, he trusts you that you will do your research and portray that character truthfully. But at

the same time he has a very strong sense of what he is making, so you feel safe.

Some of the movie is shot on a dreamlike Super-8ish film…

Benoît Delhomme, the cinematographer, is exquisite. And even when we were watching rushes early on and he came to rehearsal he looked so closely. I know that this seems to be an obvious thing to say, that the camera is so close, but it is the way he does it, his personality, his precision in observing the details.

I didn’t realise the camera was on my hand at a certain point! He would see little movements or feet; it was all about the details. And obviously there is something quite presentational when you are shooting camera on still or rails.

It is lovely to have the contrast with the more intimate view. It is like you really know those characters.

Acting is about details, isn’t it?

Absolutely, the whole way through.

The sets were very simple and it was a conscious choice on James’ part, to keep it almost like a theatre stage. So it felt like all these elements came together: Eddie and I came from the theatre, and that process of building a character was very much something you do automatically in theatre, the rehearsals included. And to be given this platform:

how lucky we were! There is no judgment. You as the audience have the responsibility to find your own conclusions. It is very difficult to do that and at the same time make the work entertaining and captivating.

What’s your take on Stephen and Jane’s relationship now (they divorced in 1995)?

There is an extraordinary closeness.

Despite the difficult times there is a huge love and respect for each other. It is no longer the love that you have within a marriage, but it is the love of spending a huge part of your life with someone. And I know that in Stephen’s documentaries it was very important to Jane that he recognised that level of her care and attention. There is a true empathy and reconciliation between them.

What did you learn from the movie?

I just have such respect for their determination. Even looking at pictures of Stephen now, I think he is formidable. He just doesn’t give up.

Neither of them does. And they don’t fake it through life; they are real people, who are passionate about having full lives, no matter the circumstances.

The Theory of Everything will be in cinemas from January 1, 2015.

How important was filming in Cambridge, where they lived?

It was a great way to start it! This is where Jane and Stephen live. The first week of shooting we were in the home of these people. We were already absorbing everything about them just from walking around. Actually, Eddie went to Cambridge himself, so he knew it very well. But it was also an opportunity to spend more time with Jane and Stephen.

In some ways that first week felt like we were jumping from a high-diving board. So it helps to be there, the town where they lived their lives.

The family was there during the filming of some scenes: what was that like for you?

It was so intimidating.

And I think it was our third day of shooting!

We barely knew what we were doing! My

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style fashion

THE

STYLE CHART If you can’t pile on the jewels for party season, when can you? It’s the ideal excuse to glitz and glam it up. We love this pretty star ear cuff, £6, Accessorize.

Just add attitude.

Grown-up and chic but still sexy, this sequin shirt - £27, La Redoute, laredoute.co.uk – would look amazing with just jeans and heels.

Sometimes all it takes to go from office to party is the right accessories.

Make a statement in these amazing chandelier earrings, £17.99, at H&M in Pavilions.

This, to us, is the perfect Christmas gift: stylish, designer, reassuringly fabulous. The Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh gift set is £58 at lovely Harvey Nichols in The Mailbox.

The spa experience, at a sensible price tag: this year Champneys has a gorgeous range of gift options, including this Complete Home Spa, £50, with loads of goodies and a cute beauty case: champneys.com

Timeless Lulu Guinness does it again with a winter collection of bags that marry charm with classic good looks: gold glitter clutch, £225, House of Fraser.

Woollen gloves are so 2013. It’s all about sleek leather now, and if you can wear them in a pastel shade, all the more on-trend. Pink leather gloves £15, Dorothy Perkins.

Ok, so you may need to be helped to the taxi, but these vertiginous heels are worth the sacrifice. Designer looks at an affordable price: gold heels, £65, Lipsy, lipsy.co.uk Hello, is that the style police?

Time to update your phone… case, that is.

Add seasonal shine with this smartphone case, £9.99, New Look.

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I R R E S I S T I B LY B E AU T I F U L S K I N

HARVEY NICHOLS

M O R O CC A N O I L .CO.U K

P R E M I U M S PA S

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style christmas

GIFTS FOR HER Christmas sparkles in style, with these gorgeous gift ideas

H&M

Christian Louboutin studded toe pump, £495, Harvey Nichols

Hope 18ct rose gold and black diamond earrings, £595, Links of London

Rosie for Autograph satin playsuit, £29.50, Marks & Spencer

Ring, £55, Folli Follie, follifollie. co.uk, and in Selfridges

My Burberry, £90 for 90ml, £65 for 50ml, monogrammed with your initials at Selfridges, House of Fraser and Debenhams Watch, £99, Guess, guesswatches.com

Bobbi Brown n Scotch o s the Rock , rs lo o C Lip £22 each

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Black leather clutch and cuff, £595, Aspinal of London at House of Fraser

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style christmas

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GIFTS FOR HIM Cool and classic presents for the perfect gentleman

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9 1. Velvet blazer, £199, Marks & Spencer 2. Black Peppercorn Fragrance gift set, £60, Molton Brown, moltonbrown.co.uk 3. Inside HBO’s Game of Thrones: Seasons 3 & 4 companion book, £20, hboshopeu.com 4. Givenchy adjustable watch, £640, Harvey Nichols, harveynichols.com 5. Haig Club single grain whisky, part-owned

by David Beckham, £45, whiskyshop.com, The Whisky Shop in Great Western Arcade 6. Tonino Lamborghini, TL-66 rose gold smartphone, £2,500, Selfridges, selfridges.com 7. Alexander McQueen leather wallet, £340, Harvey Nichols 8.

Polka dot scarf, £99, Paul Smith at House of Fraser 9. Toshiba KIRA Ultrabook, £1,299.95, John Lewis 10. Blue Harbour Harris tweed pure wool laptop case, £35, Marks & Spencer 11. Valentino Uomo EDT, £46 (50ml), Harvey Nichols

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true heritage and unrivalled quality since 1812 men’s and women’s apparel designed for all of life’s adventures bespoke leather goods - filson - faliero sarti - sartore - inverni - the real mccoy’s - levi’s

130

pritchett street. birmingham. b6 4eh

0121 333 1900

westleyrichards.com

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Shop local , support our city

TREASURE FOREVER Beautifully made and top quality assured: these gifts will get you Brownie points!

Agnelle wool and leather gloves with tassel, £60

Sartore ladies leather and suede heritage ankle boots, £445

Oak Street Bootmakers trench boot with leather sole, £359

Silver labrador cufflinks, £199

W. R. & Co. Lyell overnight bag, green canvas and mid tan, £295 T.ba classic trimming hat, £398

Inverni cashmere fold hat with racoon fur pompom, £180

Faliero Sarti Ariel multi stripe plaid scarf, £269

Filson rucksack in tan, £238

W.R. & Co. Sutherland bag, large, mid tan £695 Faliero Sarti dip dye wool scarf, £335

All exclusively available at W.R & Co. on Pritchett Street in Birmingham and at westleyrichards.com issue 42

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style christmas

Tesco Gold & Black Crackers, £7 for 6

Lanterns, £15, Debenhams

Tipplesworth cocktail case, £185, Harvey Nichols

CHRISTMAS HOME

Sitting reindeer tealight holder, £70, Marks & Spencer

Festive touches and a cosy vibe

White apple wreath, £50, House of Fraser Glitter candle, £4, John Lewis, johnlewis.co.uk

Punch bowl, £38, Next

Snow globe, £20, House of Fraser

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Madison arched mirror, £195, Henry Dean candle holders, £80 and £180, frosted pinecone and fir garland, £70, snowflake paper decorations set of 3, £12, silver concertina balls set of 3, £15, all The White Company, whitecompany.co.uk

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style christmas

Animal onesie, £30, Tiger Store at Westfield Merry Hill, tigerstores.co.uk

Lindt Bear and Hearts gift box, £5.49, supermarkets

Finish Neptune Underwater MP3 Player, £79.99, Amazon

Ride-in sports car, £169.99, Maplin, maplin.com

Girls’ party dress, £30, Monsoon

GIFTS FOR KIDS Penny gold skateboard, £170, Selfridges

My 1st Christmas Bear 2014, £10, Mamas & Papas, mamasandpapas.com

Rudolph cuddle robe, £14, Next

Fur booties, £45, UGG Australia at House of Fraser

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style christmas

LUXURY TREATS

as at m t s i r Ch hols c i N y Har ve

Give her a Christmas to remember…

Elemis Frangipani Body Indulgence gift set, £36

Lola Rose necklace, £80 Ben Amun hair clip, £255

Gucci bamboo zip shopper, £1,230

Gucci nappa and cashmere gloves, £295

Michael Kors Cynthia tote, £285

Christian Louboutin spike messenger bag, £1,295

This Works Dream Believers gift set, £25

Mulberry Clemmie suede clutch, £595

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, in store or via the new Click & Collect Service.

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style christmas

Acqua Di Parma Colonia Essenza eau de cologne gift set, £87

Dsquared² wool blend intarsia jumper, £380

Paul Smith pencil cufflinks, £75

MCM Stark M Collection backpack, £685

Elemis Multi Active men’s gift set, £39.50

The Gentle-Man pomegranate face wash, £15

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PERFECT PRESENTS For the man who has everything…

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, in store or via the new Click & Collect Service.

Paul Smith striped wool scarf, £65

Harvey Nichols Cantucci Men mug, £10.95

Versace Medusa velvet slipper, £475

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style exclusive

WE ADORE DIOR

As an exclusive new fragrance collection arrives in Birmingham, Carl Groenewald, Dior’s National Fragrance Ambassador, talks Andrew Riley through the wonderful world of perfume

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veryone should try different fragrances. Gone are the days where a young lady or gentleman would be taken to a perfumer at the age of 18 by their mother or grandmother and they would choose a fragrance and that would be their fragrance for life.

People now have different lives; and depending on their mood, what they are doing and where they are going, they will change their fragrance accordingly.

So as we have a wardrobe of clothes in fashion – you have your S/S and A/W clothes, people are doing exactly the same with fragrance.

I think the celebrity fragrance is dying out. Now what people want is something more luxurious, more personal. Because it’s new and you like the celebrity, it doesn’t mean it is right for you. People are becoming more aware of individuality and that is why they are coming to houses like Dior where they can find something that’s individual to them instead of wearing something that everyone else is wearing.

Quality is everything. We can guarantee that the quality of our fragrances is the very best. A customer might spend a little more than they normally would but we can guarantee that the quality of the raw ingredients we use is the very best because it is chosen by our very own perfumer. We also grow our own jasmine and rose flowers in Grasse, the south of France.

The bestselling fragrances are the fruity florals and that’s true across the world. And why? Women love the smell of flowers; men love women to smell of flowers.

Trends will come and go but we find that overall it is very much still the fruity floral that is the most popular.

And that is why J’Adore, which is now the second bestselling fragrance in the world, is a fruity floral.

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Women’s favourite fragrance for men is Dior Homme Eau and it’s exclusive to the UK and US. It is beautiful and powdery; there’s iris in it and iris is almost like wearing cashmere on the skin. It gives you this lovely softness. Men no longer wear the Brut or Old Spice from their granddad.

We have almost as many male customers as women now and they have a wardrobe of fragrances, as do women.

A fragrance will smell different on each person depending on their hormones and their gender. Also, the lasting time differs because of the amount of natural oil on your skin. The oilier the skin, the longer that fragrance will last. Eau de toilettes last on average about two hours, eau de parfum lasts about four to six hours and then a parfum, the whole day. But it will depend on the individual and the amount of essential oil in the fragrance.

The best place to put a fragrance is on the pulse points or where you would like to be kissed. For example, behind the wrist, in the crease of the arm, just behind the earlobe and for ladies in skirts, behind the knee. They are the warmest areas because that is where the blood is nearest the skin. As the fragrance warms the molecules awaken and burst. Just never put a fragrance on the neck because alcohol is really ageing.

Some base notes I go back to time and time again. For Dior, it’s usually patchouli.

Miss Dior was our original fragrance.

Christian Dior launched The New Look in 1947 in fashion, and on the same day he launched Miss Dior.

He was unique in that and he said that fragrance was the ultimate accessory. A lady may have her

handbag, her shoes, her jewellery, but without her fragrance she is never fully dressed. Miss Dior is the ultimate green chypre and the base note is patchouli. It gives it this warm earthy richness, very much back to Mother Nature.

Our La Collection Privée at Selfridges is the first of its kind outside London and customers can come along and we can create or find for them their perfect signature fragrance. We offer two services; you can find your perfect signature fragrance in the private collection or select one from the ongoing collection.

Fragrance buying is very personal. We have a unique way of finding a signature fragrance for anyone. We would ask about that person, for example, consider their mum. Think about the fragrances she has worn throughout your childhood until now. Do her fragrances smell fresh? Are they like citrus or light flowers, or are they warm and rich and intense? What is she like as a person? Is she classic and elegant or quirky? Is she discreet or outgoing? So now with what you had told me, I would be able to offer you three fragrances. We would take away the pretty packaging and let your nose alone decide. Usually when people shop for fragrance, they smell everything. You should never smell more than three, because your nose will get overpowered.

Dior is the only house that launched fashion and fragrance houses on the same day. We are one of the only houses left that still has their own perfumer, François Demachy. Aside from a few other luxury houses, everyone else goes somewhere else. We are also one of the only houses that grow their own flowers, so we can guarantee the very highest quality fragrances.

Discover your signature scent from La Collection Privée, Christian Dior and experience a personalised fragrance consultation at the new Parfums Christian Dior concession in Selfridges.

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style fashion

MICRO-TREND Fashion’s having a Highland fling this winter: tartan is a key micro-trend, seen all over the AW14 catwalks. Vivienne Westwood is the undisputed queen of plaid: we want her classic red tartan scarf, £185, House of Fraser.

INVESTMENT BUY Since discovering Soru Jewellery recently, we’ve become obsessed with its glorious gemstones and unusual designs. Every piece is handmade, unique, and made in Britain: buy from sorujewellery.com.

Agate Cord Bracelet, £85.

FASHION NEWS

Party season, Christmas, New Year: welcome to fashion’s most fabulous time of year!

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STYLE LOVES Former reality TV star and budding fashion designer Millie Mackintosh has a gorgeous new collection of jewellery at Dorothy Perkins right now. Prices start at just £10, so invest now and wear all over the holidays.

Larissa, £39

Chia, £49

PARTY SHOES It’s taxis only in these beauties, all from Miss Selfridge

Cavendish, £39

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OFFICE

style fashion

BOUDOIR CHIC Lingerie may be the perfect Christmas gift but it’s so easy to get wrong: scratchy fabrics, garish colours, a poor fit. Treat yourself – or leave this page for a loved one as a hint – with the exquisite Tallulah love range of bras, briefs, thongs and basques.

Fab colours and they arrive in super-luxe packaging, too: tallulahlove.com

Christmas Wishlist

Fashion Funds

Invitations piling up? Look amazing, feel fantastic in our edit of this season’s partywear.

Look cute and give money to charity at the same time. Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s exclusive Christmas Jumper for both kids and adults will raise muchneeded funds: £14.99 and £19.99 from bch.org.uk/store/reindeer-christmasjumper, and available inside the hospital.

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Dress, £99.99, H&M

Moon and star earrings, £6.50, Topshop

Biba Gold tassle ombre dress, £250, House of Fraser

Embellished sleeve jumpsuit, £89, Monsoon

GREAT GIFTS 1. Christian Louboutin Sweet Charity bag, £1,095, Harvey Nichols

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2. Mini Bailey Bow Snake Boots, £160, UGG Australia, uggaustralia.co.uk 3. Links of London Snowflake Diamond Charm, £195, linksoflondon.com

Embellished dress £44.99, New Look

Glam & Soul watch, £275, Thomas Sabo, thomassabo.com

WHITE OUT Monochrome is a classic choice for party season as it’s so versatile and mixes with any accessories.

These sleek and chic black and white bags are from Accessorize, from £12.

On Tops shoes, £65, Office

Elliot snakeprint box clutch, £24, Very.co.uk

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Georgia May Jagger

CONTACT: +44 (0) 20 77 20 97 25 UK@THOMASSABO.COM

WWW.THOMASSABO.COM

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style fashion

BRAND WE LOVE Our latest discovery is Skagen, a Danish lifestyle brand that’s elegant, practical and really something special

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he Danes are known for their love of sleek, characterful design. Skagen – maker of beautiful timepieces, leather goods, gifts and homewares since 1989 – is part of this tradition, with a strong design ethic that is instantly recognisable.

Everything they make is well-crafted from the highest quality materials. These are accessories you’ll want to own – and love – forever, the kind of pieces that are a step up from the high street, and not influenced by trends that come and go.

They’ll also get you compliments every time you wear them.

Lisbeth, £49

Ditte, £145

Kroyer Backpack, £189

This winter, the collection is full of streamlined watches with minimalist detailing, giving them a classic and refined look. The bags are soft leather, made to last, and in a fine colour palette: deep scarlet red, timeless white, grey, tan and cream. Expect tactile textures too, such as wool, canvas and beaten silver.

Skagen in a nutshell? Pure class and design genius. We love.

Find Skagen in Selfridges and online at skagen.com

Ella, £249

Anja, £139

Mikkeline, £269

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Baby, it’s

COLD OUTSIDE Fashion feels the chill, in winter hues of black, silver and blue, warmed with festive red and pure snowy white

Photographer: Mike Raven Stylist: Lizzy Gardner Makeup: Rebecca Frances Hair: Kieron Fowles and Yanis Setakis at Toni&Guy Birmingham Models: Luke Grimley and Laura Brown at Alan Sharman Agency

all fashion by next: next.co.uk

Luke wears: colour block merino turtle neck, £42, print scarf, £16, geo scarf, £16. Laura wears: high neck sweater, £18, faux fur gilet £46, black fedora hat, £20

Pea coat, £79, check scarf, £15, wooden handle umbrella, £20, fedora hat, £20

Statement piece:

The

Fur Gilet Cosy, warm and on-trend, the faux fur gilet will soon become the hardest-working piece in your winter wardrobe. Pair with skinny denim and ankle boots for day and dress up for night with a monochrome palette and sparkle accessories.

High neck sweater, £18, faux fur gilet, £46, sparkle trousers, £26, leather fringe duffle bag, £58, shoes, £45, fedora hat, £20

Laura wears: check cape, £65, driving gloves, £22, wooden handle umbrella, £20. Luke wears: quilted bomber jacket, £48, roll neck, £22, coated jeans, £38, print scarf, £16

Investment buy:

The

Paisley Scarf Quintessentially British and oh-soSavile-Row, the silk paisley scarf is a gentleman’s wardrobe staple. Slick with a suit, classic with eveningwear and quirky paired with dressed-down denim and a tee, it’s a confident way to add flair.

Merino turtle neck, £42, coated jeans, £38, leather belt, £13, print scarf, £16, geo scarf, £16, Chelsea boots, £50

Laura wears: print trousers, £35, high neck top, £22, Borg collar coat, £80, T-bar block sandals, £60, statement necklace, £16, diamante bracelet, £12. Luke wears: peacoat with Borg collar, £85, slim fit trousers, £20, print scarf, £16, Chelsea boot, £50

Black high neck sweater, £18, faux fur gilet, £46, leather fringe duffle bag, £58, fedora hat, £20, statement ring, £14

Bouclé coat, £75, faux fur Cossack-style hat, £12, zip riding boots, £98

Micro-trend:

Arctic White As seen on the runways at Chanel and Louis Vuitton, black and white is a timeless winter combination brought right up to date for AW14 in lush textures of boucle, cashmere, faux fur, suede and sparkling embellishment.

all fashion by next: next.co.uk

N E X T.CO.U K

Shop by 10pm for next day delivery to home *

C O AT £ 7 5 B A G £ 2 6 B E LT £ 1 0 G L O V E S £ 1 6 * Standard delivery charge applies, UK mainland only, subject to stock, courier area and availability.

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Statement necklace, £18.50, Evans

Only When I Laugh: My Autobiography by Paul Merton, Ebury Press, £20, Waterstones

Christmas in a Box, £30, Thorntons

Mini bowling set, £10, Laura Ashley

Polka dot handkerchief, £12, Moss

KP by Kevin Pietersen, Sphere £20, Waterstones

STOCKING FILLERS Need inspiration? These terrific treats will always be welcome All available at Pavilions Birmingham Chocolate star tin, £10, M&S

Wooden star puzzle, £5, Laura Ashley Per Una Gabriella candle, £12.50, M&S

The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy by Rachel Joyce, Doubleday, £14.99, Waterstones

L’Occitane Star Gift, £49.50

Autograph Quick Dry Nail Colour in Wine, £6, M&S

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Scented candle, £6, M&S

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CHRISTMAS AT CHAR WALLAH.EVANS.H&M.LAURA ASHLEY.L’OCCITANE M&S.MOSS.PHB AND A 700 SEAT FOOD LOFT

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ONE LBD: TWO WAYS

Reimagine the classic little black dress for AW14, with modern edge and on-trend accessories, as chosen

by Constantine Tziambazis, Retail Manager for Womenswear and Personal Shopping at Harvey Nichols

Deborah Lippmann nail lacquer in Cleopatra in New York, £18

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, in store or via the new Click & Collect Service.

Ben Amun embellished drop earrings, £315

NARS limited edition Holiday eye shadow, £18

Deborah Lippmann nail lacquer in Good Girl Gone Bad, £16

Alexander McQueen talon ring, £195

ROSE BLUSH

MODERN METALLICS Christian Louboutin python crystal lamé pump, £795

Alexander McQueen De Manta jewel print satin clutch, £325

Dolce & Gabbana Pour Femme Intense EDP, £64 (50ml) Moschino Cheap and Chic silk organza dress, £595 (Click & Collect)

Giuseppe Zanotti metallic zip pump, £565

Christian Louboutin Pigalle clutch, £575

Butter London Lippy lip gloss, £14

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Earrings, £95, Fallon at Harvey Nichols Fusion dress, £89, Monsoon

TAKE A SHINE

Party like it’s 2014 in gleaming gold and subtle sequins, fashion’s most fabulous micro-trend

Sequin bodycon dress, £89, Marks & Spencer

Sequin clutch, £29, Miss Selfridge

Sequin kimono sleeve top, £34.99, New Look

Ring, £179, Thomas Sabo, thomassabo.com Silver stilettos, £65, Office

Gold clutch, £40, Jasper Conran, Debenhams

Animal print sequin skirt, £35, Next

Salvation heels, £65, Office

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An auction of Antique & Modern Jewellery Thursday 11th December at 11am A collection of jewellery previously owned by H. R. H Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon.

Lot 99: CARTIER - a lady’s Art Deco platinum diamond cocktail watch. £5,000 - £7,000.

Lot 100: A mid 19th century gold diamond panel bracelet. £15,000 - £20,000.

Lot 101: A Belle Epoque platinum and 18ct gold diamond ruby cluster ring. £15,000 - £20,000.

Saleroom & Head Office | 19 Augusta Street, Birmingham, B18 6HA | +44 (0) 121 212 2131 London Office | 2nd Floor, 3 Queen Street, London, W1J 5PA | +44 (0) 20 7172 4198

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SPARKLING GIFTS Looking for something super-special this year? We asked the experts at Fellows for luxe ideas

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f you’re struggling to find the perfect presents for your loved ones this Christmas, buying at auction is a great way to find high quality, affordable items which cannot be found on the high street. Birmingham’s local auction house, Fellows, specialises in antiques, jewellery and watches. With a wide range of auctions taking place throughout December, there are plenty of opportunities for you to pick up unique gifts – with affordable price tags – in time for the big day!

For present inspiration, here are some examples of beautiful lots that have sold at recent Fellows’ auctions…

For her Jewellery by famous designer names will be found on many a stylish lady’s Christmas wish list.

Fellows regularly sell iconic Cartier ‘Love’ bangles, stunning diamonds by Boodles and Chopard, everpopular Tiffany & Co ‘Return to Tiffany’ pendants, and intricate Art Deco designs by Bulgari.

For an extra special gift, Fellows’ auction of Antique & Modern Jewellery on Thursday December 11 will include a collection of jewellery previously owned

by HRH Princes Margaret, Countess of Snowdon.

Lot 99, a Cartier Art Deco platinum diamond wrist watch will be sold along with a red leather bound certificate of provenance and original Cartier case.

DIARY DATES: CHRISTMAS AUCTIONS Watches & Jewellery: Thursday, December 4 and Thursday, December 18 Antiques & Fine Art: Monday, December 8 Antique & Modern Jewellery: Thursday, December 11 Silver & Plated Ware: Monday, December 8

A selection of designer jewellery recently sold by Fellows, including a Chopard diamond ‘Happy Spirit’ pendant (£1,200) and a Cartier Art Deco rock crystal, enamel and diamond brooch (£320).

For the home

A Franck Muller gentleman’s Perpetual Calendar chronograph wrist watch, recently sold for £8,600.

Antique silverware makes for a very unique, thoughtful gift, and with pieces ranging from impressive Art Nouveau trays and urns, to delicate enamelled tea spoon sets, and novelty pin cushions, you will be absolutely spoilt for choice.

A classic antique pocket watch is the perfect accessory for the classic three piece suit.

Novelty items such as this silver stag’s head cork screw are a quirky and festive gift idea!

This example recently sold for £280.

For him Shopping at auction is the perfect way to find a gift for the man who has everything! From wrist watches by Rolex, Tag Heuer, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe, to vintage pocket watches perfect for accessorising a three piece suit, crystal whisky decanters, and even signed football shirts, Fellows will have a gift to suit every man in your life.

An antique silver tea set is perfect for adding some sparkle to your table on any special occasion. Fellows’ auction of Silver & Plated Ware, Monday December 15, will include a wide selection of elegant tableware.

For more information, visit fellows.co.uk or call 0121 212 2131.

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the trend:

DARK NIGHT Classic black and goth glamour rule party season, as seen at Tom Ford, Victoria Beckham and Saint Laurent

Feather earrings, £9.99, New Look

Skirt, £45, Next

Embellished shoes, £49, Miss Selfridge Fringed jacket, £55, Dorothy Perkins

Murano dress, £145, Monsoon Necklace, £15, Wallis

Black glitter ankle boot £29.99, New Look

Dickins & Jones black leather cut-out dress, £239, House of Fraser Keys clutch, £32, Accessorize

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PARTY PREP MADE EASY

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Don’t overdo it this Christmas

House of Fraser

Party season doesn’t have to wreck your health: personal trainer Mark Wickens has some sage advice

Go from office to party in a few simple steps, courtesy of these expert tips and tricks from Sarah Morris Tis the season to party, and preparation is everything. If you’re heading straight out to a party after work, it’s unlikely you’ll have the time or even the space to give yourself a full makeover or a complete wardrobe change. Depending on the little amount of time you do have however, there are still ways to make yourself look a million dollars: 1. Get your nails done in your lunch break. Whether you need a new set of falsies or you just fancy a mini manicure or pedicure there are several nail parlours dotted around the city that can polish your fingers and toes to perfection within around 30 minutes. Try a small independent salon like Finishing Touches in Piccadilly Arcade, Nails Inc in House of Fraser or, if you want to add a touch of glamour try the Champagne Nail Bar in theclubandspa at The Cube.

2. Get a quick blow-dry, root touch up or even a temporary colour done during your lunch break. Lisa Shepherd’s salon on Temple Row features an Express Color Bar, offering a range of services that take an hour or less or your money back. Services range from a simple root touch up for £15, up to just £30 for an all-over colour gloss and professional blow dry. Or head over to Umberto Giannini’s hair-bar in Selfridges where you can choose from a range of blow-dry or braiding options for just £20. Can’t get to a hairdresser?

I keep an old pair of hair straighteners in a drawer at work for those caught-in-the-rain emergencies. Failing that, if you have long hair, give yourself a side parting and sweep all your hair over to the side-back of your head. Pull your hair through a small hair doughnut and pin as neatly or messy around it as you like. Voila! A chic little side-do.

3. Visit a beauty counter on your lunch break or just before you head to your party. Try House of Fraser, Debenhams or Selfridges beauty halls, find a brand you’re interested in and

ask them to do a make-up demonstration on you. It’s a great way of discovering new techniques for your own application and some great new products to use in future, with the added benefit of walking out looking party-ready with a professional makeover!

4. On a budget? Go to Primark! Yes, at the best of times the store can resemble a jumble sale and yes, there can be a lot of cheap looking clothing in there. But trust me, persist. There are a few good pieces to be found in there, just make sure the fabric looks and feels of good quality and it fits you properly.

You can even pick up a few bargain jewels, an evening bag and a sparkly pair of shoes whilst you’re there.

5. Accessorise. If you can’t afford a new outfit, just dress up an existing one. Add a splash of colour with a colourful evening bag or, if the outfit lends itself well, a thin belt. Try Claire’s Accessories for a range of well-priced jewellery and hair accessories, even masks and other items suitable for any masquerade party.

6. Shop second-hand and vintage. Often it is hit and miss in charity shops, but every so often there is a gem to be found.

To make the job slightly easier, try having a rummage around one of the many vintage stores in the city. These often have a range of specially selected vintage dresses, skirts, sequined tops and accessories. Find the best ones in and around the Custard Factory in Digbeth or, if you’re feeling lucky, give the Rag market a try!

More info: Finishing Touches: finishingtouchesbeautysalon.co.uk, 0121 643 2600, Nails Inc at House of Fraser, 0121 236 5851, theclubandspa: theclubandspabirmingham.co.uk, 0121 643 2200, Lisa Shepherd salon: lisashepherd.co.uk/birmingham, 0121 236 6981, Umberto Giannini: umbertogiannini.com/drybar 0121 633 3434.

Something is better than nothing.

No time for a workout? Sometimes a half hour workout can be more productive than a longer session.

Try some form of intervals, there are plenty to choose from; aerobic, lactate, HIIT, CP or fartlek.

These shorter forms of cardio are performed at higher intensities which means you may only need 15 minutes to achieve the same calorie burning potential as you did from your longer sessions Don’t forget to visit the bar. The barbells in the gym, that is! You may have less volume of training during the weeks leading up to Christmas and your first instinct is to pound the treadmill when you are back in the gym to burn those extra calories off. My advice is to focus on weight training a little more, sticking to large compound movements (exercises involving more than one joint, such as squat and bench press) for more calorie burning during and after the session.

Start now. It is very easy to fall into the trap of saying ‘I’ll start in the new year’ and put off trying to become healthier and fitter until January. The trouble with doing this is it tends to mean you lose self-control with food, drink and exercise. If you can try to be as active as possible throughout December making a few small changes, then having a few days, or even a week, off over Christmas shouldn’t harm the waist line too much. Hopefully this will mean when January comes around it is easier for you to get back into the routine of things.

Mark Wickens is a personal trainer at theclubandspa at The Cube: for more information or to enquire about personal training, visit theclubandspabirmingham.co.uk or call 0121 643 2200.

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Christmas – IT STARTS WITH GOLDSMITHS This Christmas, luxury jeweller Goldsmiths is opening its doors for a VIP festive event in its Birmingham store - and Style Birmingham readers are exclusively invited.

Renowned for more than 230 years’ of rich heritage, design and craftsmanship, Goldsmiths’ stunning collection spans a range of classic, luxury and fashion brands, alongside Goldsmiths’ inhouse collections.

18ct Rose Gold 0.50ct Diamond Halo Stud Earrings £1500

Perfect for a treat for yourself or a gift to your loved ones this festive season, on the first Thursday of December, visitors will be treated to an evening of canapes, Champagne and live entertainment.

9ct White Gold 1.60ct Blue Topaz Stud Earrings £95

When: Thursday December 4, 2014, from 6.30pm Where: Goldsmiths, Bullring, Birmingham, B5 4BF The store will also have 10 free jewellery rolls available (worth £100) – given to the first 10 customers in store on the night, who spend £250 and over.

Championing unrivalled expertise and knowledge, Goldsmiths’ exclusive collection offers jewellery specially selected for Christmas 2014. With silver and gold jewellery that’s ideal for engraving, stunning diamonds and pearl collections, as well as world-renowned luxury and fashion watch and jewellery brands, including Canadian Ice, Vera Wang and Rolex, you’ll find something special for all your friends and family. Additionally, with Goldsmiths Gift Wrap service, you’ll have Christmas wrapped up in no time.

Cufflinks £50 9ct gold bands rings £175

Goldsmiths prides itself on embodying all that’s best about a local jeweller – with every piece designed and crafted to the highest quality using traditional techniques passed down for generations, a rich heritage of expertise since 1778, more than 100 local stores and unique and beautiful jewellery pieces which will go on to be part of a story for each individual wearer.

To attend this exclusive event simply RSVP over email to eventsgs@goldsmiths.co.uk, placing ‘Bullring’ into the subject field.

For more information visit goldsmiths.co.uk

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9ct gold rings £250 each

Cufflinks £100

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CATWALK REPORT:

HARVEY NICHOLS AW14 SHOW Style Birmingham was front row when Harvey Nichols unveiled its winter collections

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irmingham’s best dressed were certainly out in force at the Harvey Nichols A/W14 Fashion Show. Stylish guests enjoyed an evening of the very latest trends at the event, which was staged in The Mailbox car park. The unusual venue proved a striking backdrop to the most sought-after pieces from the likes of Saint Laurent, Christopher Kane, Versace, Dries Van Noten, Jil Sander, Lanvin, Prabal Gurang, Kenzo, and Valentino.

The event sold out in a matter of days and those lucky enough to get a ticket were treated to a Champagne reception and car park catwalk before the chance to shop the exclusive looks in store. There was also an after-show party hosted by Nuage 25 at Marco Pierre White’s restaurant.

The show, sponsored by luxury car brand Lexus, definitely whetted the appetite when it comes to what can be expected when the new Harvey Nichols opens its doors at the Mailbox next year.

“It is events like this that confirm us as the leaders in fashion in the region,” explained Richard Vickery, General Manager of Harvey Nichols Birmingham. “We opted for the unorthodox venue because we think it summed up exactly what we are about – we continue to push the boundaries, whether that’s introducing our customers to the very latest fashion talent or the cutting edge design of our new store.”

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Hair on the night was styled by Paul Jones, makeup was created by the team at SpaceNK and nails were by Shavata Studio. Styling was by Rachel Story.

Get the look 1. Versace Collection dress, £510, Tamara Mellon pumps, £910 2. Roksanda Ilincic dress, £1,355, Loeffler Randall pumps, £290 3. Catherine Dean dress, £1.185, Saint Laurent sandals, £625 4. Lanvin dress, £2,565, Alaïa sandals, £690, Stark clutch, £1230 5. Christopher Kane jumper, £630, Christopher Kane skirt, £655, Aquazurra sandals, £490, 3.1 Philip Lim clutch, £890

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Spotted at the show

Left to right: Adam Lowe, Dean Spragg, Tom King and Nathaniel Valentino, Emma Larkin and Harprit Sall, Gemma Hemming and Ciaran Clark, Luke Boyden and Shelby Billingham, Shelley Brumpton and Gemma Attenborrow

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CELEBRATING TALENT 46

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New ideas, emerging talent, hope for the future: this year’s Midlands Fashion Awards had it all

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Held in the CBSO centre, Birmingham on October 24, the fashion set were out in force for this year’s Midlands Fashion Awards, all of whom were there to celebrate the region’s best and brightest future talent.

This year’s fashion extravaganza was hosted by ITV Central presenter Genelle Aldred and the finalists were judged by the Midland’s fashion and media experts including Founder and Managing Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards, Jenny Eason, Communications Manager at Retail Birmingham, Kim Stephens, Founder and Managing Director of Frock on Vintage, Pam Cheema and Luke Roper, Founder and Managing Director at Luke1977 and, from the Style Birmingham team, our own Elle Sixsmith.

Independent Designer of the Year Opulance by Beverley White

Previous MFA winners have already made their mark on the industry. Four years ago, 2010’s Young Fashion Designer of the Year, Victoria Bramwell, was scouted at the awards by celebrity fashion stylist Alexis Knox, and has now showcased her collection at the Clothes Show Live.

Accessory Designer of the Year House of Harrie Hattie

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he Midlands certainly has its fair share of homegrown talent, especially when it comes to fashion. Set up in 2009, The Midlands Fashion Awards (MFA) promote the region’s talented creatives and discover the next top fashion designers.

From make-up artists, accessory designers and fashion graduates with their first collections to emerging talent, designers are given the opportunity to showcase their work to a judging panel of industry professionals and suitably stylish crowd, of course.

The full list of winners Best Emerging Designer: Michael Wallace Michael won the judges over with his elegant haute couture Gothic-inspired bridal wear.

Michael went against his mantra of black by incorporating delicate lace, ostrich feathers, ivory satins and transparent fabrics to create a beautiful edgy collection.

Best Independent Designer of the Year: Opulance

by Beverley White Opulance by the talented Beverley White was given the Best Independent Designer of the Year honour and impressed with her distinctive structural collection based on volume and construction of the female form.

Young Designer of the Year Kamilla Jones

Best Young Designer of the Year: Kamilla Jones Make-up Artist of the Year Lian Young

Kamilla Jones wowed judges with her dramatic Japanese martial arts inspired collection. Based on the powerful modern woman, designs featured oversized silhouettes in the style of traditional martial arts such as Samurai, Kendo, Aikido and Ninjutsu.

Best Accessory Designer of the Year: House of Harrie Hattie Best Stylist of the Year: Shirley Whysall Best Make-up Artist of the Year: Lian Young

Stylist of the Year Shirley Whysall

Photographer - Garazi, Stylist - Shirley Whysall MFA 2014 Stylist of the Year, Makeup - Jules Cardozo-Marsh assisted by Lian Young, Hair - Lisa Shepherd Salons UK, Models - Charlotte Burton, Katie Nixon and Ella Wood @ Alan Sharman Agency

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Festive and fabulous

From your makeup to mum’s outfit, here’s how to style it up this Christmas, says Lotty Harper

Lotty and her mum Fern celebrate Christmas in style

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s the festive season draws ever closer, my preparations for Christmas Day are now in full swing. One of the most important, and enjoyable parts of Christmas Day is the traditional Christmas lunch – the turkey, the crackers and all the yuletide trimmings. But Christmas lunch also gives me the perfect opportunity to say a very special thank you to one of the most beloved people in my life, my mum Fern.

I am so lucky to have my mum. We live quite close to each other, and she does so much to help and support me throughout the year. From chauffeuring my daughters around to picking up shopping when I am feeling snowed under, my mum is always on hand to offer help when it is most needed. She is the most valuable person in my life. That is why Christmas day is all about being able to say thank you to my mum, and about removing the stress and strains that Christmas lunch preparation can bring. Quite simply, this is a day for mum to enjoy herself.

Luckily, Birmingham has plenty of options for eating out on Christmas Day. These enable you to enjoy your festive fare without any of the food preparation, or (shudders!) washing up. Our destination of choice this December 25 is the fabulous Hotel Du Vin. The former eye infirmary is now one of the city’s most beautiful hotels.

This stunning destination has an elegant, glamorous feel, with its newly refurbished bubble bar the perfect place to sip Champagne before enjoying the fine dining in the bistro. Ethos Flowers have created exquisite table decorations that add to the general ambience of the chicest merry Christmas.

Of course, another important aspect of Christmas day is what to wear.

The need is for something stylish for my mum, and yet comfortable, after all, over-indulgence is a classic part of Christmas.

A visit to my good friend Lynn Malins, and her wonderful at home clothes boutique Maison Chic, was required. Based in Edgbaston, Maison Chic offers a personal touch when it comes to shopping, with Lynn setting the mood for the perfect style session by greeting you with fresh coffee and delicious home-made biscuits. It will probably not surprise you to find out that after our coffee break mum fully enjoyed her personal shopping experience and found the perfect outfit, comfortable enough to wear all day, but with just enough Christmas glitz to ensure a sparkling presence at the dining table and beyond.

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LOTTY’S LITTLE BLACK CHRISTMAS BOOK

Best place…

For a Christmas Cocktail The Edgbaston, Highfield Road, 0121 454 5212

To private hire

La Cache, Berrow Court, 0121 456 3066

To celebrate something special

Simpsons Restaurant, Edgbaston, 0121 454 3434

To visit Santa

Botanical Gardens Christmas Grotto, 0121 454 1860

for a winter berry belLini

Metro Bar & Grill

for Christmas Day Hotel du Vin

As a true fashion lover, I get very excited about what I should wear for this most special of days, so I decided to pay a visit to Harvey Nichols and enlist the help and advice of the very lovely Constantine Tziambazis. After much perusing (there are just so many lovely things in Harvey Nichols at the moment) I finally decided on a White blouse with a black bow from Supertrash, teamed with the Fizer floral Pouf Skirt by Alice & Olivia. I so love this skirt, the floral print has a slight poinsettia look which is just perfect for Christmas.

Teamed with my ever faithful Stella McCartney over the knee boots, this will be an outfit I know I will feel fabulous in.

And my new outfit will be complemented by a new, and very different hairstyle. Last week I popped into the Gora’s hair salon in Templefield Square, hoping for a chat over a quick coffee with Gora.

Maybe it was something about being in a salon, that gorgeous scent of shampoo and hair spray, and all those pictures of glossy and edgy hair styles, but before I knew what was happening Gora had chopped off all my locks, leaving me ready to see in 2015 with a new year look!

The festive make up is all sorted too, and I think I have fallen in love with a new brand – well, new to me, anyway! A recent visit to my brother-in-law’s in Swansea resulted in a shopping trip with Claire, my sister-in-law and my girls Alex and Flo all having a fun session in the counter of Urban Decay, where we all treated ourselves to some new make-up products. The girls at the counter were so lovely: they were friendly and helpful and made choosing new products so much easier, it was an all round great experience. I love my new products, and am especially enamoured with the foundation brush and the Naked palette number 2. I will be using and wearing Urban Decay products as I sip the champers and tuck into the turkey this Christmas.

And so, that is my Christmas Day all sorted. I will spend it in a wonderful setting with those most important to me all around. And so, with my mom Fern by my side, I will raise my glass and wish you all a very merry Christmas. Here’s to a fabulous 2015.

Thank you to Hotel Du Vin (084473 64250), Ethos (0121 616 6182), Harvey Nichols (0121 616 6000), Maison Chic Lynn Malins (07787 167646), Gora (0121 440 1437) and Sophie at Urban Decay in Selfridges (0870 837 7377).

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BEAUTY NEWS Glow, gleam, glitter and glisten this party season PERFECT PRESENT Tom Ford heaven: choose the eight Lip Colors and eight Nail Colors you want and get this elegant gift box to keep them in (£504). Find Tom Ford at Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and House of Fraser.

GIFT IDEA The bareMinerals Christmas In the Spotlight collection, £49, has everything you need for party season, including a fab black glitter makeup case! Buy from bareminerals.co.uk

TRIED & TESTED Nicky Clarke salon, The Mailbox, 0121 6334 009

NEW IN MAC’s Heirloom Mix collection for Christmas is a winner, with gorgeous eyeshadows that stay just the right side of sparkly. Expect shades of plum, grey, silver and bronze: on counter now.

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There’s more than a hint of Nicky Clarke’s famous – and VIP-packed - original Mayfair salon in his Mailbox one, now celebrating its 10th birthday. Ornate gold mirrors, chic, muted colours and a luxe vibe send the message that you’re in expert hands.

We tested a colour treatment (with divine results), a conditioning treatment (plus complimentary back massage while you wait) and cut and blow-dry, and left the salon transformed. The best thing? The stylists really listen to what you want and understand what will suit you. Perfect for festive pampering or a new look for 2015.

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STYLE Loves All we want for Christmas is the Moroccanoil Hydration Collection, £65, with body soufflé, hand cream and Moroccanoil treatment: Harvey Nichols and moroccanoil.co.uk

DARING DIOR No-one does Christmas beauty as well as Christian Dior, with its glamtastic gold packaging and signature rich colours. We adore Dior’s new Golden Shock nail collection of four shades: pearly white, metallic gold, intense red and dark purple, £20 each. There’s also a Golden Shock Top Coat, £21, for added va-va-voom.

LOVE, BURBERRY Already love the blockbuster My Burberry fragrance? Invest in the new bath and body collection: My Burberry Shower Oil, £38, Moisturising Body Mist, £28, and Fresh Deodorant, £28, all with the same top notes of rose, patchouli and geranium leaf: burberry.com

GOLDEN GLOW Longtime Bobbi Brown fan Katie Holmes will be stocking up on the new Scotch on the Rocks collection for a radiant glow over Christmas.

Heroes? The Highlight Powder, £34, Nail Polish, £11, and as a gift, the Deluxe Lip & Eye Palette, £59.

LUST LIST Jo Malone London Limited Edition Pomegranate Noir Cologne 100ml £86, Selfridges

SPICE SCENT Rituals has an exquisite new Limited Edition collection, Diwali, rich with Indian spices such as white patchouli and cardamom, perfect for midwinter. There’s a shower foam, body cream, and for the home, fragrance sticks and a scented candle: find out more at rituals.com

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Crème de la Mer The Regenerating Collection, £215, Harvey Nichols

Jo Malone London Peony & Suede Collection, £68, jomalone.co.uk

Eve Lom The Ultimate Collection, £175, evelom.com

Molton Brown London Via The Festive Season, £39, moltonbrown.com

Aveda A Gift Of Renewal, £55, aveda.co.uk

GIFT OF BEAUTY Captivating coffrets filled with beautiful treats

L’Occitane Divine Skincare Collection, £120, uk.loccitane.com

Clinique Aromatic Elixir Essentials gift set, £48, Boots

Crème de la Mer Limited Edition Swarovski Lip Balm, exclusive to Selfridges

Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Color Holiday Lipstick Set, £39, Boots

Elemis The Ultimate Tri-Enzyme Gift, £80, Harvey Nichols issue 42

Look

&feel

amazing this season

Is that little black dress feeling a bit tighter around the hips than it used to?

BEFORE

17 WEEKS AFTER

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

BEFORE

8 WEEKS AFTER

COOLSCULPTING 速 Procedure by Grant Stevens, MD, FACS

BEST KEPT CELEBRITY SECRET IF YOU’VE EVER WONDERED HOW CELEBRITIES HAVE ALL THE CURVES IN THE RIGHT PLACES, HOW EVERYTHING IS FLAT AND TONED?... THE ANSWER IS HERE

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t takes just 90 days to achieve the results you want with revolutionary body contouring treatment Coolsculpting®. There is no surgery and best of all - No Downtime Coolsculpting® is a permanent fat reduction treatment clinically approved by the FDA. It’s a non-surgical alternative to liposuction.

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Results have shown that a single one hour treatment can achieve upto a 40% reduction of fat in the treated area. There is No Downtime, No needles, scalpels or scars.

Exclusive to Central England, Coolsculpting® is available at Air

Aesthetics in Edgbaston and Henley in Arden.

The good news is that you can look as good as your favourite celebrity in as little as 30 days with Coolsculpting®.

For further details contact Air Aesthetics.

Call 0845 519 5377 or hello@airaesthetics.co.uk or www.airaesthetics.co.uk

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• More than 1,000,000 treatments carried out worldwide

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style beauty Bobbi Brown Limited Edition Nail Polish in Cherry Tomato, £11

PARTY GIRL

Burberry Complete Eye Palette in Gold No. 25, burberry.com

Dior Diorific Golden Shock Lipstick in 007 Passion Shock, £29

Zelens Satin Primer Illuminating & Hydrating, £42, spacenk.com

Sisley Eau du Soir, EDP, from £81

Vanilla Brulee Sparkler iridescent hair and body shimmer, £15, The Body Shop

Tom Ford Jasmin Rouge Body Moisturiser, £42

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Autograph Ultimate Wear Nail Colour in Golden Glaze, £6, Marks & Spencer

Clinique Lash Power Feathering Mascara, £18

Dior Diorific Illuminated Pressed Powder, £49

stylebirminghammag.com

Bobbi Brown

Bobb iB Cream rown Min iL Shad ow St ong-wear ick T rio, £ 29.50

Make an impact with full-on festive glamour

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WINTER TRESSES

Prep hair for party season with a few expert tips courtesy of Royston and Nick from top Midlands hair salon Royston Blythe

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is the season to drink copious amounts of fizz, spend hours indulging on the credit card, dash from the school nativity to the company glitzy party, deal with super-hyper offspring, charge around supermarkets and actually survive on the lowest levels of sleep for the year - so how do we ensure that we look our very best? Royston and Nick discuss the essential hair pampering to the looks and styles that will keep you looking sensational throughout the most wonderful time of the year.

incredible style statement. It is important for us to consider our client’s outfit, for example we enjoy tailoring updos to complement backless and back detailed dresses. This season’s style is unstructured, supersized and with masses of volume, yet classic iconic updos will never date. We take inspiration from beautiful old school vintage Hollywood glamour, styles such as Grace Kelly’s 1950s water waved, swept to the side look. Truly sensational!

Christmas at Royston Blythe really is the most wonderful time of the year. We have incredibly loyal clients who visit us all year round but over the festive season they spend more time with us, they play hard and need to look their most beautiful. Evening soirees, red carpet events and special occasions are times when you simply have to look and feel your best. Beautiful, luscious hair boosts confidence and of course makes a polished, glamorous and elegant statement. Here’s some of our favourite looks of the season.

Chic short hairstyles and shoulder skimming bobs are so current this and can be ultra-elegant too. The trick is to personalise each style to suit the individual’s features, whether worn super sleek and smooth or with texture and soft waves, there is a real beauty in a head-turning, high sheen glossy finish.

Long hair: condition is everything Parties are always a time for big beautiful sexy long hair that works your wardrobe and complements your features. The combination of iconic 1960s Bardoesque and Cheryl Cole is sensational and a look that will leave every lady feeling ultraglamorous and polished. This season textures are soft, styles are loose and feminine, with an effortless and endlessly beautiful feel. To maximise the appeal we need to work on healthy, wellnourished hair, and this can often involve some pre-Christmas planning and intense in salon treatments.

Short hair: go glossy

Is there a quick fix to healthy hair?

Clients visit us throughout November to prepare their hair for the party season - it is a month of hair rehab at Royston Blythe!

There is no doubt that your hair will look its best in its hour of need, if it is super shiny, oozing with vitality and uber glossy.

This is, in most instances, achieved from the pre-party prepping.

Hair up: adds instant glamour

Be sure to have an in-depth hair analysis and follow up consultation pre-Christmas to discuss your home haircare routine, at Royston Blythe we carefully consider shampoos, conditioners and styling products that will maximise both the colour, style and of course condition. In preparation you should consume plenty of water and keep hair super foods such as salmon, nuts and blueberries in your diet. For a special occasion it is wise to treat yourself to an intense moisture boosting in-salon treatment, this will also enhance condition with immediate effect.

You can expect to see many glamorous updos working their way round the celebrity and society circuits over the festive season.

They are an absolute must and ooze with elegance, grace and sophistication. Teamed with a stunning outfit they can make an

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).

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N E M

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Just in case you need another reason to love Christmas…

EDITOR’S CHOICE

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RI-RI MAN Not content with taking over the worlds of music and social media, Rihanna’s now dipped her toe into the beauty and grooming industry, launching her own men’s fragrance, Rogue Man by Rihanna. With notes of citrus and black pepper, it’s a really wearable everyday scent. Find it at House of Fraser in two sizes from £25 to £45.

ITALIAN JOB Too-cool-for-school Robert Downey Jr is such a firm fan of Gucci he sports the iconic label on the red carpet every chance he gets. Now you can channel Iron man with a little Gucci accessorising of your own with this Gucci briefcase, £1,495 at Harvey Nichols (our tip? Put it straight at the top of your Christmas wishlist and hope Santa’s feeling generous).

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GROOMING GIFTS

1. Decleor Men’s Skincare Programme, £33, decleor.co.uk, 2. Cowshed Bullocks for Men Duo Gift Set, £30, with Bracing Body Wash, Soothing Moisturiser, Soothing Shaving Cream, and Refining Facial Scrub, cowshed.com, 3. Tom Ford Private Blend Collection Set, £220, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges

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ENGLISH WINTER

1. Dsquared² iPhone 5 case, £70, Harvey Nichols

Tweed is the traditional choice for winter jackets and never more so than this year when they were spotted on the catwalks at Burberry and Alexander McQueen. The Hammond & Co by Patrick Grant label at Debenhams has some affordable versions, including this sharply-cut Quaker twill jacket, £120 (worn with Henley top, £28, joggers, £40, Herringbone flat cap, £29.50, boots, £130).

2. Molton Brown Body Wash Caju & Lime, £18, moltonbrown.co.uk 3. Grant slippers, £120, UGG Australia in Bullring, uggaustralia.co.uk

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CHRISTMAS JUMPER Raising money for Save the Children, Friday December 12 is Christmas Jumper Day (find out more at jumpers.savethechildren. org.uk). Luckily, style-savvy H&M has got in on the deal, saving you from handknitted Frosty the Snowman hell: buy a cool, contemporary Christmas sweater from £29.99 at H&M now.

NYE NIGHT Traditionally, tartan is the only sartorial choice for New Year’s Eve, but you don’t have to go full tilt at a kilt in order to see in Hogmanay in style.

Tartan was also all over the catwalks for AW14, got both men and women, in muted colourways and on sleek suits, like this one from Next: tartan jacket £75, trousers, £35, turtle neck sweater, £22, and lace up boots, £60.

ELEMENTARY STYLE If you can’t wait for the new season of Sherlock next year, channel a little of Benedict Cumberbatch’s signature style with The Sherlock Dressing Gown in camel cashmere, £670, from the Museum of London shop: buy online at museumoflondoshop.co.uk

WISH LIST Here’s a genuinely original idea. Super-masculine fragrance Gruhme has a gift set with ‘permanent packaging’: it comes in a military-grade Peli case made from endurance materials that are waterproof and almost indestructible. There’s a Shave Kit, too: prices start at £35, from gruhme.co.uk

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CLASSIC TWIST Few can resist a man in a tux so opt for a modern take on a classic with on-trend tailoring and attention to detail: a bow tie with skull embroidery; leopard print on a pair of lace-ups; and perfectly chosen scent.

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1: Alexander McQueen silk bow tie, £110 2: Christian Louboutin New Orleans shoes, £690 3: Alexander McQueen tailored wool trousers, £475 4: Dolce & Gabbana cotton shirt, £240 5: Dolce & Gabbana velvet blazer, £1,360 6: Uniform Wares watch, £600 7: Gucci Made to Measure EDT, £50 (50ml)

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NIGHT’S WATCH

James Burke, Menswear Manager at Harvey Nichols, edits two key looks for party season All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, in store or via the new Click & Collect Service.

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CONTEMPORARY CHIC Go for gold and add instant luxe with statement pieces from the likes of Versace, Buscemi and Moschino. Team metallic accessories and vibrant prints with sexy black leather for a party look that really does have the Midas touch.

1: Moschino leather trousers, £855 2: Buscemi 100mm leather hi-top trainers, £810 3: G Shock watch, £90 4: Miansai leather wrap bracelet, £115 5: Versace satin shirt, £855 6: Versus lion head belt, £125 7: Marc by Marc Jacobs iPhone 5 case, £30 issue 42

22 Church Street Birmingham B3 2NP

www.clementsandchurch.co.uk

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FINE AND DANDY Make sure his Christmas is stylish and sharp, with these gift ideas from Clements & Church

Berkeley shoes, £549.95

Clarkson leather cabin case, £1,049.95

Euston socks, £19.95

Waterson leather bag, £649.95

Stratford blue white check two piece wool suit, £999.95, Windsor white cotton piquet shirt, £149.95, Stafford bubbles slim tie and pocket square set, £124.90, Hubert blue suede tasselled loafers, £449.95, Alnwick one piece umbrella £299.95

Walton leather document holder, £599.95

Parkes leather overnight bag, £799.95 Holyrood, £499.95

Find Clements & Church at 22 Church Street, Birmingham: 0121 233 9994, clementsandchurch.co.uk

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HOME NEWS Make your home magical this midwinter

LIT UP Creating a welcoming home at Christmas is all about getting the lighting right. Mix soft candlelight with the subtle sparkle of mercury glass, crystal and coloured votives.

Marks & Spencer has a wide range, from £6 for tealight holders and £15 for candlesticks.

TREE TREND We’ve had pink, black and bare twigs in recent years, but 2014’s Christmas tree trend has a natural feel: think Nordic fir, abundant needles and a light dusting of ‘snow’. This gorgeous one is from House of Fraser: flocked 6ft pre-lit whistler tree, £150, High Society tree decorations from £6, silver crown tree topper, £15, silver glitter rattan cone tree, £20, crystal pre-lit garland, £40, silver rattan wreath £20.

STYLE LOVES The perfect present for the style maven who has everything: silver-plated wine cooler and flutes, £199.95, Adventino, adventino.co.uk

BARGAIN BUY Glitter pink bauble £4.95, Selfridges

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3 OF THE BEST…WINTER SCENTS

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1. Jo Malone London Frosted Cherry & Clove Deluxe Candle, £120, Selfridges 2. Heyland & Whittle 3 Wick Candle in Orange Spice, £36, heylandandwhittle.co.uk 3. Aroma Reeds Collection in Orange & Bergamot, Gingerlily and Pink Pepperpod, £105, Molton Brown boutique in Bullring issue 42

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AND SO TO BED

Hibernate your way through winter in a cosy and comfortable bedroom sanctuary, with these nesting tips from Ikea

MAKE THE ROOM COSY Use fabrics to create a warm atmosphere in your boudoir: thick drapes and blackout blinds at the window, satin bed throws, pure cotton bedlinen on feather down duvets and added interest from pattern and print.

Block-out curtains from £40 a pair, duvets from £4 to £100.

USE SPACE SMARTLY If space is tight, don’t let your bedroom become claustrophobic with piles of clothes, books and clutter everywhere: that’s the enemy of a good night’s sleep. Take clutter off the floor by adding shelving and storage boxes, and get creative: if there’s space at the end of the bed, choose a slim desk and chair so you can multi-task in comfort. Lack wall shelves from £5.

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ADD RICH TEXTURES A sophisticated muted palette needn’t be dull: give it a three-dimensional feel with sheepskin, animal print art, wool and embellished cushions and faux fur throws.

For that five-star hotel vibe, add a couple of white waffle robes to the back of the door and pile the floor with woven rugs: Stockholm cushion, £15, throws from £15, Ludde sheepskin rugs from £25.

USE WARM COLOURS Beat the winter blues by filling your bedroom with a warming palette of red, gold, yellow, burnt orange and vanilla cream. These shades work well with dark wooden furniture for a Mediterranean vibe, or keep things simple with a pure white background and warm colours as accents.

Wooden bed, Hemnes, £165.

MAKE YOUR BED ANYWHERE Turn your living room, home office or spare room into a bedroom at the drop of a sofa-bed: perfect for when guests come to stay, or those lazy winter Sunday afternoons when all you want to do is snuggle up with a book, some snacks, and a weepy movie. Sofa-beds these days are as comfortable as the real thing: sofabeds at Ikea start at under £100.

INVEST IN A BIG BED Winter nights are when a healthy approach to maximalism pays off.

When buying a bed, invest in the biggest size you can afford, so there’s plenty of room for a growing family… or family pet! A roomy bed doubles as a sofa, home cinema, work space, even breakfast bar. Keep the colour palette pared down to avoid an excessive look: Duken bed frame, from £135.

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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 W W W. S H OW B E AU T Y. C O M

TRAVEL NEWS

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Winter getaway? We’ve got some ideas

WINTER SUN Where: The Sheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa In The Maldives Why: December to March is the best time to visit Fancy your own private island? The Sheraton Maldives sits in the middle of a glass-like blue lagoon, but has all the luxuries you’d expect of a five-star-plus resort. With over-water bungalows, thatched cottages and beachfront villas, you can enjoy views of the Indian Ocean, private decks and dining area, outdoor living rooms, plunge pool and hammock!

Special touches: The Shine Spa is on its own mini-island and is well worth a visit for an outdoor massage. When you can muster some energy, there’s a weekly DJ beach party as well as nightly entertainment, and all manner of watersports, from windsurfing to kayaking.

More info: Book an ocean villa and bag some extras: all-inclusive dining and premium brands of alcohol, your room’s mini bar restocked daily with your favourites, a beauty treatment every day and snorkeling equipment. Visit starwoodhotels. com. British Airways operates flights to Male International Airport: britishairways.com

STYLE LOVES Off on a skiing holiday? Pack these super-cute but sturdy Mukluk Moc laceup boots in Supernavy, £150, fitflop.com, for apres ski fun.

We stayed at: NEW HALL HOTEL & SPA

GIFT LIST Travel in style with the Abbey Road Backpack from Radley, £159, Radley.com

Medieval architecture, beautiful 26-acre grounds, sumptuous suites, fantastic food, a relaxing spa… and a moat. What else could you ask for? The four-star New Hall Hotel & Spa is the perfect escape for a winter weekend, and all on your doorstep, right here in the West Midlands. Though parts of it are more than 800 years old (think wood-panelled galleries and lavish period detailing), New Hall feels like the luxury hotel it now is, with two top-class restaurants and a spa tucked away in the gardens, offering everything from facials to massages as well as a large pool and sauna and steam rooms.

Everywhere, the vibe is understated elegance, charming and sophisticated, while the rooms mix modern luxury with history: expect leaded windows, fourposter beds and beamed ceilings. Famed for its amazing food – try the afternoon tea! - New Hall is the ideal wedding venue, spa weekender or indulgent treat.

New Hall Hotel & Spa, Sutton Coldfield, 0121 378 2442, handpickedhotels.co.uk

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BAH, HUMBUG!

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etween the endless heartstring-pulling ads on TV and the unavoidable crowds of the German Market, it’s not surprising that some people tend to get a little bit sick of Christmas. For those of you who would gladly never see another cheery penguin or mug of mulled wine again, here are the ultimate anti-Christmas entertainment choices to see you through December and into the New Year.

SNOWFLAKES AND SPINETINGLERS Snowdrops by A.D. Miller In Moscow, ‘snowdrop’ is what they call a dead body that has been hidden by the snow, and is only revealed when it melts. That tells you pretty much all you need to know about this feel-bad novel, which recounts the decreasing fortunes of expat lawyer Nicholas as he crosses paths with femme fatale Masha and becomes increasingly embroiled in a web of corruption, exploitation, and murder.

Sorry by Zoran Drvenkar Four friends decide to set up an agency which lets people ‘outsource’ apologies. Their unique enterprise becomes an unexpected success, until it catches the attention of a serial killer, who entraps the group in his own sadistic game. Set in the dead of winter, Sorry is a chilling tale which follows in the footsteps of gritty Euro-crime fiction like Headhunters and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. Not a read for the faint of heart.

The Bloody Chamber by Angela Carter Christmas is the perfect time of year for fairy tales. This collection reimagines famous classics such as Beauty and the Beast and Little Red Riding Hood, and draws out the darker and more fantastical elements, rather than sugarcoating them à la Disney. Carter brings a thoroughly modern sensibility to the folklore of the Brothers Grimm, especially when it comes to the roles of the prince and the princess. These stories might not all have happy endings, but they are each captivating in their own way.

CREEPY CRIMBO CLASSICS The Thing John Carpenter’s iconic horror film takes place at the South Pole, meaning it literally couldn’t be any further

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Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

Are you a Christmas refusenik? If you want an alternative to soppy Santa films and wall-to-wall tinsel, try these entertaining ideas, from Russian crime novels to card games ‘for horrible people’, says Philip Ellis

from Christmas. At an isolated research base, an insidious, unseen enemy starts picking off people one by one. It soon becomes clear that this monstrous killer can change its appearance and masquerade as anybody. When death lurks behind every corner and could be posing as your friend, who do you trust? And how long before you’re next?

Gremlins This Eighties creature feature opens like many other Christmas flicks; with a cute, furry, immensely cuddly animal. But despite looking like a must-have children’s toy, Gizmo the Mogwai comes with a very specific set of care guidelines: don’t expose him to bright light, don’t get him wet, and never feed him after midnight. Ever. Of course, when a struggling inventor brings Gizmo home as a present for his son, things soon go wrong, and all hell breaks loose as a horde of grotesque mutants wreak havoc on the town. Gremlins combines sweetness and scares in equal measure, making it the perfect film for wide-eyed youngsters and hardened cynics alike.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Halloween and Christmas collide in this animated children’s fantasy, which tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, and his obsession with Christmas.

When Jack decides to usurp the role of Santa, the macabre world of Halloween Town is thrown into disarray. Featuring delightfully twisted songs and visuals, Nightmare showcases Tim Burton at his kooky, creative best (before his tiresome takes on Willy Wonka and Wonderland).

THE ULTIMATE STOCKING FILLER Cards Against Humanity Playing Monopoly, Scrabble or even Kerplunk with family members brings out the worst in all of us. Cards Against Humanity, described as “a party game for horrible people”, relies on players having a willingness to laugh at themselves as well as each other. The rules are simple enough; the Card Czar reads from a black question card, and each player submits a white answer card at random. The result is a series of madlibs which range from bizarre to filthy.

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TREE TREAT Christmas pudding refuseniks will love Marks & Spencer’s Chocolate & Raspberry Christmas Tree, £13, a much lighter but still decadent take on dessert.

FESTIVE FIZZ 1. Gosset Grande Reserve Brut Champagne, £45, champagnedirect.co.uk 2. Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Rosé Vik Muniz Edition 05, £200, Harvey Nichols 2

STYLE LOVES The Christmas Wreath, £40, Hotel Chocolat in Bullring

SPOIL US Double yum: Grand Ferrero Rocher has two individual Ferrero Rochers nestled inside a crunchy hazelnut-studded chocolate shell: £4.99, Tesco.

Snack attack

LUST LIST Trust Harvey Nichols to do Christmas gifting with elegance. The Say Cheese hamper, £125, is a classic gift.

Best thing about the holiday season is that it’s perfectly acceptable to have a cocktail and crisps for elevenses. We’re addicted to Kettle Chips’ new limited edition Salsa & Mesquite flavour: £2.19 in supermarkets.

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FOOD & DRINK NEWS

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Christmas treats

CHOCOLATE ROULADE WITH BOOZY BLACKBERRIES Wow friends and family with this impressive looking chocolate dessert, made with sloe gin and blackberries Serves: 8 Ready in: 45 minutes Cook: 15 minutes Cooling: 3-4 hours

You’ll need: • • • • • • • • • •

200g (7oz) dark chocolate, broken into pieces 5 large eggs, separated 175g (6oz) caster sugar, plus a little extra 50g (2oz) ground hazelnuts 2 tablespoons hot water 225g (8oz) blackberries 3 tablespoons sloe gin, cherry brandy or kirsch 400ml (14fl oz) double cream 2 tablespoons icing sugar Chocolate holly leaves and extra blackberries to decorate

What to do: Preheat the oven to 180oC (350oF), Gas Mark 4. Cut a rectangle of non-stick baking paper a little larger than a 34 x 23 cm (131/2 x 91/2 inch) Swiss roll tin or roasting tin with the same base measurement. Snip diagonally into the corners of the paper then press into the tin so that the base is lined and the paper stands a little above the sides of the tin.

Melt the chocolate in a bowl set over a saucepan of very gently simmering water. Using an electric whisk, whisk the egg whites until peaking. Using the still dirty whisk, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together in a second bowl for 4-5 minutes until thick and pale and the mixture will leave a trail.

Fold the melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture then the hazelnuts and water. Fold a little of the egg white into the mixture to loosen it then gently fold in the rest.

Spoon into the tin and lightly ease into an even layer.

Bake for 15 minutes until well risen and the top is slightly crusty. Leave to cool covered with a clean teacloth. Add the blackberries and liqueur to a bowl,

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cover and leave roulade and berries to stand for 3-4 hours, or longer if that suits you better.

About 2-3 hours before serving, whip the cream until it forms soft swirls then fold in the icing sugar and the liqueur from the soaked blackberries.

Wet a clean teacloth under a hot tap, wring out and put on the work surface so that the shorter edges face you.

Top this with a clean sheet of non-stick baking paper and sprinkle with a little extra sugar. Turn the roulade out on to the sugared paper and remove the lining paper.

Spread the cream over the roulade, sprinkle with the soaked blackberries then roll up the roulade starting from the short edge nearest you and using the paper and damp teacloth to help. The roulade will crack, but don’t worry, just continue rolling and pressing into a good shape until you reach the other end. Wrap the paper and cloth around the roulade for a few

minutes to set the shape.Rremove the paper and cloth and transfer the roulade to a serving plate. Decorate with chocolate holly leaves (see tip below) and extra blackberries.

To make the chocolate holly leaves Snip about 20 holly leaves from a small branch, leaving just a little of the stem on. Wash and dry the leaves then brush the shiny top of each leaf with a little melted chocolate leaving a little of the leaf and stem uncovered.

Put leaves on a baking sheet lined with non-stick baking paper, chocolate side uppermost and chill in the fridge until the chocolate has set. Cover with a second thin layer of melted chocolate (you’ll only need about 75g (3oz) of chocolate in all) and chill again.

When ready to use, hold the stem end of the leaf and very gently begin to peel and curl the leaf away from the chocolate. Arrange on the top of the roulade.

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ICED STARS Perfect for the Christmas festivities, these delicious biscuits are tangy, fragrant and very more-ish!

Ready in: 30 minutes Makes: 18

You’ll need: • • • • • • •

100g softened butter 50g caster sugar 3tbsps Bottlegreen elderflower cordial 1 lime 200g plain flour 150g icing sugar Silver balls and ribbon

What to do: Preheat oven to 180c (160c for fan assisted oven) gas mark 4. Cream together the butter, caster sugar and 2tbsps of the Bottlegreen elderflower cordial, add the grated rind of the lime. Sift in the flour and mix to a dough, knead lightly.

Roll out on a lightly floured work surface, cut into stars approximately 7-8cm diameter 10-15 minutes until pale golden, cool on a wire rack.

Mix together the sieved icing sugar, remaining 1 tbsp of Bottlegreen elderflower cordial and enough lime juice to make a smooth, spreadable icing. Ice the biscuits and decorate with silver balls. Leave to set for several hours.

Cook’s tip: If using as decorations make a small hole in the uncooked biscuit with the blunt end of a skewer, carefully thread a ribbon through after the icing has set.

GOAT’S CHEESE CANAPES Made with California prunes, these yummy goat’s cheese tarts are even good for you!

Ready in: 45 mins Makes: 6

You’ll need: • • • • • • • •

500g pack of ready bought short crust pastry 75g walnuts roughly chopped 125g California prunes roughly chopped 3 teaspoons freshly chopped thyme leaves plus 6 stalks for garnish Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 200g semi-soft goat’s cheese crumbled 150ml double cream 2 eggs

What to do: Preheat the oven to 200ºC/400ºF/Gas mark 6. Divide the pastry into 6 portions then roll out each one and use to line 6 x 10cm round loose bottom flan tins. Trim, then line with parchment paper and baking beans and bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until the pastry edges are pale golden Remove the beans and paper and put the tart cases to one side. Mix together the walnuts, California prunes, thyme leaves and goat’s cheese and season well with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Divide mixture between the tart cases. Lightly whisk the cream and eggs together then pour carefully over the tarts. Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to each one and put in the oven to bake for about 15 minutes or until golden and set. Remove and leave for 5 minutes before serving Serve topped with a thyme leaf, a lightly dressed salad and a generous spoonful of tangy chutney.

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New Years Eve

6 course gourmet dinner 8pm-late £59-95

MULTI AWARD WINNING RESTAURANT IN BIRMINGHAM

3 COURSE LUNCH 27.95 3 COURSE DINNER 32.95 AVAILABLE FROM MON 2ND DECEMBER 2014 TO TUES 24TH DECEMBER 2014 12PM TIL 4PM

0121 632 6882 6 OOZELLS SQUARE BRINDLEYPLACE

BIRMINGHAM B1 2JB

WWW.CIELOBIRMINGHAM.COM

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Dining out:CIELO

Relaxed and intimate Italian cuisine, without the fuss, discovers Mike Raven

IN THREE BITES »» Visit Cielo at 6 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, Birmingham: 0121 632 6882, cielobirmingham.com »» Cuisine: Italian »» Meal for two, including wine and service: £120

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et in the prestigious Oozells square in Brindleyplace, Cielo has for many years been the go-to Italian restaurant for a discerning clientele in search of simple, delicious food with superb service. I went along on a cold winter’s night to see if that’s still Cielo’s promise.

Arriving at Cielo is much like entering a boutique hotel. Stone tiles cover the floor of the intimate dining space created by brothers Chris and Cos Papachristoforou, with suede walls and a carved ceiling.

The airy, open-plan space is lit in deep amber making it easy to forget you’re in the middle of the bustling business district of Birmingham.

Busy at primetime Saturday evening you might expect there to be just a hint of disorder but the restaurant ran smoothly. Welcomed as if we are family by the head waiter, we were swiftly shown to our window seats near the interior waterfall that spans the back of the room. Our host for the evening attentively served us some freshly-baked salted bread rolls and marinated olives. The menu isn’t large, but precise. A set menu is available before 7pm at a very reasonable £18.95 for three courses but my dining partner and I opted for more variety choosing from the a la carte menu.

To start, alongside a well-balanced espresso martini and caipirinha cocktail, we decide on the capesante al limone: four seared black pearl scallops topped with a delicate Avruga caviar on a bed of creamy celeriac and carrot purée garnished with a hint of lemon and finished with a white wine jus. I am assured the caviar is an ideal accompaniment to the scallops’ gentle flavour. My generous serving of the calamari fritti startled me at first - a copious amount of lightly dusted, deepfried squid rings served with a wedge of lemon and garlic and lime mayonnaise – but it was deceptively light and left plenty of room to move onto the main course.

With so many Mediterranean dishes on the gold leather-clad menu, I was spoilt for choice. I was at first tempted to opt for the more traditional Italian pasta dishes on offer: for example, the seafood risotto and spaghetti carbonara. But my dining partner and I are both committed carnivores so he went for the filetto di manzo al pepe: cooked medium rare, the lean fillet of farm assured beef came complete with chunky chips and a mild green pepper corn sauce. The beef was cooked well with slightly charred edges ensuring a pocket of rich flavour toward the end of the dish. My vitello al limone served on an elongated geometric plate was pleasant: two large pan fried

escalopes of veal with sautéed potatoes and wilted garlic spinach served with lemon butter and garnished sage. As an accompaniment I was recommended the full bodied, Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon by our server, a steal at only £6.95 for a 125ml glass.

The service throughout the evening was friendly and attentive, the waitress keenly sweeping in to mop up the glass of water my friend accidentally knocked over the table and me (I hope this was a cleverly planned test by my dining partner, not an over-excited reflex when he spotted the main course nearing the table). Our host paid us regular visits to ensure everything was running smoothly for us.

The final leg of our visit, dessert.

The homemade crema bruciata, an orange-infused crème brûlée was subtly sweet with glazed orange segments and physalis on the side. Paired with a citrus, syrupy dessert wine it made for a gratifying conclusion to the evening. The home-churned chocolate ice-cream and a caffè latte prepared us perfectly for setting out into the wintry night.

Cielo has a slightly higher price tag than some of the other restaurants around Brindleyplace but your money will be well spent. For an evening of first-class service and delicious food Cielo is an assured choice.

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Twenty stunning serviced apartments All the best bits of a trendy hotel but way more space and value for money. Plus the best views of Birmingham Rates start from ÂŁ109 per night

Book now and save 10% when you quote code DEC 14

t: 0121 285 1250 e: hello@stayingcool.com w: www.stayingcool.com

Rotunda Birmingham

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DINE BY FAIRY LIGHT

Bullring is THE place to eat, drink and celebrate this festive season

T

he most festive time of year is upon us: the fairy lights, the sparkling decorations and the 35ft Christmas tree in St Martin’s Square have all arrived at Bullring.

If you’re planning your office get together, a celebration with friends or simply looking for somewhere to fully embrace your Christmassy side then make sure you’ve got a table booked right in the heart of the city.

For Christmas with a twist choose Chaophraya Thai Restaurant (0121 643 2448). With a choice of four menus, including a vegetarian option, there are dishes such as stir fried beef in oyster sauce and king prawns with ginger to tempt your tastebuds. Served in a Thai banquet style, a booking at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant will certainly make you the party planner of the year in your guests’ eyes.

If it’s a spot of celeb chef inspired cooking you’re looking for then head to Jamie’s Italian. In true Jamie Oliver style the menu seeks to impress; you’ll be kick-starting your celebration with a glass of Prosecco

before moving onto a full three-course meal. Sample Jamie’s famous antipasti planks before moving onto an Italian feast consisting of options such as Italian turkey and pumpkin risotto. And top it off with one of their mouthwatering desserts. Pre-book on 0121 270 3610.

For Christmas with all the trimmings head to Browns Bar and Brasserie (0121 643 8708). With the soothing sounds of the piano and the sophisticated wine bar setting you’re guaranteed an evening filled with good food and divine cocktails. For £35 choose from a range of dishes including the traditional roast turkey or the mulled wine pie. For dessert there are four tempting sweets to pick from, we dare you to not get food envy!

With the stunning background of St Martin’s Church and the iconic Selfridges building, and more than 25 restaurants to choose from, Bullring is the ultimate destination to celebrate Christmas 2014. And from December 1 you can shop until 10pm during weekdays in the run-up to the big day.

For more information about shopping and dining at Bullring visit bullring.co.uk

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WELCOME 2015 IN STYLE Tara Tomes picks some festive and fabulous ideas for new year’s eve

For some, NYE is overrated and overpriced but I can’t help but love it… the glamour, the champagne, the fireworks! It’s the perfect excuse to get together with your favourite people and celebrate the passing of another year. I’ve had an incredible 2014: a new apartment, new relationship and the first year of my own business, East Village. I think it’s safe to say I’ll definitely celebrating on December 31.

If you’re unsure what to do in Birmingham on NYE, here’s a few ideas.

3. Head down to my local

1. Go big in the city Birmingham knows how to put on a good party so you’ll be spoilt for choice if you want to go big this NYE. My personal choice would be The Belvedere Black & Gold Party at Mechu. At only £20 per ticket this is definitely going to be a night of glitz and glamour.

Sponsored by Belvedere and Moët & Chandon, the best dressed man wins a magnum of Belvedere and best dressed woman wins a magnum of Moët. To book your tickets, call 0121 710 4233 or email adin@summerrow.com Mechu, 47-59 Summer Row, Birmingham, B3 1JJ. mechu.com

Based down the road from my office, The High Field has become my ‘local’ since opening in September. The team is fab, food is amazing and atmosphere is perfect so if you don’t fancy being part of the hustle and bustle of the city, book a table at what has fast-become the highlight of Edgbaston. Tables are already selling out but for £45 per person you’ll get a four-course meal and glass of bubbly. Don’t be fooled by the country bumpkin interior, the theme for the evening will be glitz and glamour, so get your sequins out for NYE at The High Field. Table bookings are open now and, whilst bar entry is free you’ll need to book a ticket. Take a visit and give them a call on 0121 227 7068 to book.

The High Field, 22 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3DP. highfieldedgbaston.co.uk

2. Keep it suite Treat you and your loved one – or best friend – to a night of pure luxury. Malmaison has four stunning first class suites available; The Sorting Office, The Post Box, Mailroom and Spaghetti Junction. Each has a four-poster bed, big TV, sofa, roll-top bath or a walk-in monsoon shower. Suites start from £385 per room, per night so choose one of these rooms to see in the New Year with a few bottles of ‘Bubble Time’ from the bar. You could also head on down to the Mezzanine Floor to take part in Mal’s NYE celebrations.

For £85 per person, you’ll enjoy a four-course meal, live band and disco. To book, visit malmaison.com/ birmingham or call 0871 843 0350.

Malmaison, The Mailbox, 1 Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 2JR

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4. Go to new heights Want to spend your NYE at the top of the Rotunda? The Staying Cool 4* and 5* boutique apartments are the answer to your NYE prayers. There are only a few rooms left so if you want to book you need to be quick but you’ll get your own apartment with gorgeous views of the city. There are full kitchen facilities if you fancy staying in or, if you want to soak up the atmosphere, you are slapbang in the centre of the city so head out to some nearby bars and restaurants. My personal recommendations would be

The Bureau on Colmore Row, the brand new Bar Opus at One Snowhill, and Island Bar on Suffolk Street Queensway.

Check the website for availability, prices and booking: stayingcool.com.

Staying Cool, The Rotunda, 150 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4PA.

5. Be the host with the most If you’re in the ‘NYE is overpriced’ camp then I assume, no matter how hard I try, you won’t venture out on 31 December so why not just embrace it all and host your own party? Invite your nearest and dearest round, and put on an epic celebration… maybe even go all out and have fireworks in your back garden? Plan things that you and your friends will love and make it a night to remember. If you’re worried about preparing food and drink, don’t. Loki Wine in Great Western Arcade has a great selection of wines and spirits and neighbor Anderson & Hill will provide you with the perfect meat and cheese canapés. Easy as that.

6. Have a quiet night in If options 1-5 haven’t done it for you then just accept that NYE isn’t for you and stay in and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Why not focus on making New Year’s Day a big celebration instead? A group of us are planning to go to Cheltenham Races on New Year’s Day and whilst I can’t promise I’ll have a low key NYE (that’s highly unlikely) at least it would give you an excuse for a ‘quiet night in’.

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Queen + Adam Lambert Barclaycard Area (NIA), January 23 Reigning rock royalty will be rocking the house down at the new Barclaycard Arena in what will be one of the biggest musical events of the year. Queen have just this month released a new album Queen Forever, featuring three unreleased tracks with Freddie Mercury and a collaboration with Michael Jackson. The Queen and Lambert duo first teamed up in 2009 to perform the band’s rock anthem We Are The Champions on American Idol’s season eight finale. In 2012 they performed their debut live concerts together with three UK shows. They’ve already received glowing reviews and this much lengthier tour will see Queen + Adam Lambert perform 21 shows in 10 countries. Fans can expect Queen’s incredible catalogue of songs, the artistry of the original ‘guitar hero’ Brian May and Roger Taylor on drums and Lambert’s sensational vocals mixed with personal style and charisma. We’re sure Freddie would approve.

Tickets are £78 and will be like gold dust so quickly get yours before they sell out at theticketfactory.com

Macy Gray Town Hall, February 13 The Grammy award-winning, multiplatinum selling singer-songwriter, will be returning to Birmingham as part of a select number of intimate UK gigs.

Renowned for her unique, cool raspy vocals, she’s been wowing audiences since her 2000 critically acclaimed debut album How Life Is and well-loved hit I try.

And there’s still really no-one out there who sounds like her. Her performances are high-energy, full-hearted and most definitely, full of soul. Tickets for this oneoff show are £28.50 plus £3 transaction fee and can be booked at.thsh.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

MUSIC

You Me At Six + All Time Low LG Arena, February 10 All Time Low and You Me At Six will be joining forces for an epic rock fest at the LG Arena next February. American punk-pop rockers, All Time Low, will be hitting five venues with co-headliners You Me At Six before their first UK arena show at London’s Wembley Arena. Surrey-born rock group You Me At Six, found fame in 2008 with their debut album, Take Off Your Colours, with hits Save It For The Bedroom and Finders Keepers. In 2011 they won Best British Band at the Kerrang! Awards and this year celebrated their first number one in the UK album charts with Cavalier Youth. Rock fans will not want to miss this tour! Tickets are £34.30 from ticketmaster.co.uk

Joe & Jagged Edge Plus Special Guest Ginuwine o2 Academy, February 01 The kings of R&B return to Birmingham for a one-off date with industry heavy-weights Joe, Jagged Edge and Ginuwine next February. With Joe’s sultry vocals and chart-topping hits like I’m In Love, and I Wanna Know, the singer-songwriter has captured the hearts of millions around the world for two decades. Devoted Joe fans will get the chance to hear him perform tracks from his newly released album Bridges, as well as love classics from his previous 10 studio albums. Joining Joe, will be one of Jagged Edge. The quartet return to the UK following the release of their first studio album in three years, JE Heartbreak 2. With a catalogue of hits and seven multiplatinum albums, their performance promises to be a real treat for R&B fans.

Special guest Ginuwine, rose to fame in the 90s with hit single Pony, and then followed with eight solo albums spanning an 18-year career. This show will be a must-see for all R&B lovers. Tickets start at £34.16 from ticketmaster.co.uk

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Strictly Come Dancing Live 2015 Barclaycard Area (NIA), January 16-18

Russell Howard: Wonderbox LG Arena, December 21 One of the funniest and most successful UK comedians returns to live stand-up, with his first tour in three years. Following his successful sell-out and extended 2011 UK tour, Mock of The Week and TV show, Russell Howard’s Good News, he hits the road again with a tour that promises more of his well-loved trademark energetic and quick-witted comedy. He’s back on stage, bigger than ever and doing what he does best. He’ll have you howling with laugher from start to finish. Don’t miss your chance to see one of the biggest comics in the country this Christmas (it might be another three years before his next tour!). Get your tickets now for £31.50 at theticketfactory.com

Strictly Come Dancing Live will kick off the first leg of the tour here, in Birmingham. The Saturday’s pop sensation Frankie Bridge and rugby hunk Thom Evans are the first celebrities confirmed for the tour and Zoe Ball returns as host. Having been a former contestant in 2005 and presenter of the BBC Two sister show, It Takes Two, Zoe knows a thing or two about Strictly. Judge Craig Revel Horwood will be directing the live tour, so audiences can rest assured that all the Strictly glitz, glam and stunning choreography will be present in this slick sequined spectacular! Audiences will also be able to text their vote for their favourite stars and decide who wins the prized Glitterball Trophy at each performance. Featuring the most popular routines from this series, everyone’s favourite celebrities and pro dancers, and the incredible costumes and glitterballs; this will be a dazzling evening of entertainment for the whole family.

Tickets will sell out fast so get yours now, starting at £40.08 from theticketfactory.com

WHAT’S ON

OUT & ABOUT

Omid Djalili – Iranalamadingdong Symphony Hall, February 13 Time Out award-winning Omid Djalili is back on the road with a new show and an astonishing eight-month-long, 98-date tour. Following a sell-out four week West-End stint and season at the Edinburgh Festival, the British/Iranian comic will be entertaining audiences once again with his sharp one-liners, witty anecdotes and funny dance moves. The Iranalamadingdong tour focuses on his own life experiences with the theme of getting older. Whilst he’s mastered Hollywood roles in Sex and the City, Gladiator and The Mummy, and a directing debut in the pipeline with a drama based on gang life among Asians in the Midlands, we can’t wait to see him back on a Birmingham stage doing what he does best! Tickets are £23 plus a £3 transaction fee. Buy yours now from thsh.co.uk

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Comedy Tour Show - Russell Kane & Friends The Glee Cub, February 4 Russell Kane star of Live at the Apollo and The Royal Variety Show will be introducing his favourite comedians and treating you to lots of his cutting wit, sharp observations and relentless paced brand of comedy. The line-up also includes fresh-faced 2013 BBC Radio New Comedy winner Steve Bugeja and the dynamic, Edinburgh Festival regular, Suzy Bennett. Tickets to see this fantastic night of comedy are only £13.50 from glee.co.uk

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Matthew Bourne’s Edward Scissorhands

Dance ‘Til Dawn

Birmingham Hippodrome, February 10-14

New Alexandra Theatre, February 09-14 Strictly Come Dancing favourites Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace are back in Birmingham next February 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. Combining Big Band hits, sultry Latin dance and comedy, the smash hit Dance ‘Til Dawn transports you to 1940s Hollywood glamour. The story begins amidst a Hollywood film shoot where leading man Bobby Burns is murdered and a thrilling romance develops between rising starlet Sadie Strauss (Flavia Cacace) and her lover Tony DeLuca (Vincent Simone). Expect iconic Big Band hits, stunning sets and costumes and the sensational, world class dancing duo at their best. Tickets start from £17.90 and can be purchased at atgtickets.com

Manuel Harlan

Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production of Edward Scissorhands returns to Birmingham in its first major revival with a fresh take on the gothic fairy tale, sure to delight and move theatre lovers. Based on the classic Tim Burton film and featuring the unforgettable music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, this charming and touching love story tells the bittersweet tale of a boy left alone and unfinished. With only scissors for hands, he is left to find his way in a new world that will struggle to get past his differences. An unforgettable tale filled with theatrical magic. Not to mention, original Edward and iconic star Johnny Depp, is also a big fan of the production! Relive the magic of this iconic show and buy your tickets now from £17 birminghamhippodrome.com

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WHAT’S ON

THEATRE

An Evening of Music and Dance with Birmingham Royal Ballet Symphony Hall, January 31 The celebrated Birmingham Royal Ballet and its acclaimed orchestra, the Royal Ballet Sinfonia under the baton of Music Director Koen Kessels, returns for its spectacular annual performance at Symphony Hall. This enchanting evening, compered by David Bintley, includes highlights from classical favourites like Swan Lake, Sylvia and Cinderella. Price start from £10 - £29.50 plus a £3 transaction fee and can be bought from.thsh.co.uk

Anton & Erin Symphony Hall, February 14 A dazzling new production for 2015 featuring sensational choreography, sassy tunes and sparkling costumes in a wonderful show of music, song and dance. The couple’s top-billing stage shows continue to go from strength to strength each year with a tour more breath-taking than the last. Join the UK’s favourite dance couple as they combine the sophisticated elegance of their quick step, foxtrot, tango and waltz with the showbiz razzmatazz of hits from stage. Featuring classic hits like That’s Entertainment, Make ‘Em Laugh and There’s No Business Like Show Business, ballroom lovers are in for a real treat! Price start from £19.50 - £43.50 plus a £3 transaction fee and can be bought from.thsh.co.uk

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style win

WIN AN ENGAGEMENT PARTY FOR EIGHT! Something to celebrate? Mark the occasion in style at new hall hotel & spa

Hand Picked Hotels is offering Style Birmingham readers the chance to win an engagement dinner party for eight people in a private dining room at the exquisite New Hall Hotel & Spa. The prize includes a pre-dinner glass of Champagne, canapés and a three-course table d’hôte dinner.

Surrounded by an enchanting lily-filled moat and dating back to the 13th century, New Hall Hotel & Spa in Sutton Coldfield is a beautiful setting for celebrations. You can find out more about the hotel here: handpickedhotels.co.uk, or call 0845 458 0901 for details.

To enter, go to stylebirminghamMAG.com and answer this simple question:

New Hall Hotel & Spa dates back to which century?

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Terms and conditions: Closing date is January 1, 2015. The prize can be taken Sundays – Fridays subject to availability. Prize must be redeemed by March 31, 2015. Prize dinners are subject to available dates as defined by Hand Picked Hotels. This prize cannot be used in conjunction with other offers. The prize is as stated and non-transferable. There is no cash alternative. Prize does not include travel or accommodation. Accommodation may be available for an additional fee, subject to availability. Judges’d ecision is final and correspondence will not be entered into.

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