bricolage.
issue 1
food
fashion
beauty
travel
vintage
2 • bricolage
bricolage • 3
contents
i s sue 1 | june 2012
bricolage.
STREET STYLE
9-11
13-23 STYLE ICONS
Bricolage HQ, London, UK bricolagemagazine.atspace.co.uk Twitter: @BricolageMag EDITOR Cherronda Freeman SUB-EDITOR Sybil Odiaka CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sybil Odiaka ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Hannah Fenn
HIGH FASHION ON THE HIGH STREET
25-31
ART DIRECTOR Sybil Odiaka
33-35
TRAVEL EDITOR Ellie Johnson BEAUTY EDITOR Hannah Fenn BEAUTY
FASHION EDITOR Sybil Odiaka FASHION ASSISTANT & STYLIST Shannon Purcell
37-45
Our wonderful contributors, PHOTOGRAPHER Shannon Tao
TRAVEL
52-57 ALL THINGS YUMMY & VINTAGE
PHOTOGRAPHER Heather Clifford
THE BIRTH OF BRICOLAGE
46-49
THIS PUBLICATION WAS DESIGNED BY SYBIL ODIAKA. COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CLIFFORD.
6 • bricolage
STYLE ICONS YOU CAN RELATE TO
The BIRTH of BRICOLAGE editor’s letter EDITOR’S PICK
Y
ou want to know what the latest trends are. You don’t want to be told what to wear but you do want guidance and professional advice. You want a magazine you can relate to 100% throughout its content. Bricolage is the answer to what you want in a magazine. A refreshing alternative to the current women’s consumer magazines in the market, Bricolage is made up of topics you are interested in, compiled with precise creative direction. Our first issue focuses on vintage and all things artistic. We are surrounded by vintage essences in the shape of fabrics, patterns, colours, pastry and clothes. This issue channels this vintage essence with features as well as photography. So what’s with the cover, you may wonder. I present to you the first issue of Bricolage and it’s only right to celebrate with something sweet!
Cherronda Freeman Editor
Topshop’s Tropical Floral Blazer, £65.00
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Street
STYLE Words by Sybil Odiaka Photography by Shannon Tao
L
ondon, one of the four major fashion capitals as well as our favourite city! Home to the edgy and the fashion rebels, trends are born on a daily basis. It’s no surprise we struggle to save money. Every corner you turn, there’s a shop and in that shop, there’s something you’ll want!
“
Inspiration for YOUR wardrobe
”
>>
destination for hidden gems, you can also save some money if you’re not too greedy! Our street style photographer, Shannon Tao hit the streets of Soho, London to snap up inspiration for your wardrobe.
Luckily, clothes and accessories are generally affordable in London. From Primark to charity shops, often a
bricolage • 9
“It’s a new era in fashion - there are no rules. - Alexander McQueen
STAZ In a world where so many people dress the same, Staz is a breath of fresh air! Daring to be different, we admire her quirky fun style. From the funky sunglasses to her exclusive selfcustomized biker jacket, Staz is a trendsetter. Customize your outfits to stand out. You’ll save money and feel unique, it’s a win win situation.
AMELIA
ERI From her burnt orange suede jacket to her rustic lace up shoes, Eri is in head to toe vintage with the exception of her adorable contemporary nail design. It’s not only Eri with a love for all things vintage. We are absolutely obsessed with vintage fashion, hair and beauty at Bricolage. I guess that’s why we have an entire section dedicated to all things vintage!
On a dull gloomy day in London, it’s easy to forget summer is around the corner. Amelia defies the gloom with a vibrant orange sheer scarf, patterned Topshop leggings, a sleek watch, the wardrobe essential biker jacket and a Mulberry bag. Don’t camouflage into your surroundings, stand out! Let Amelia’s street style inspire you.
Does Eri’s distinctive street style tempt you to jump on the vintage fashion bandwagon?
Don’t fear big bright beautiful colours!
10 • b r i c o l a g e
EMILY This summer it’s all about patterns! As we transition to summer fashion, it’s not unusual to see a spring outfit accompanied by a patterned piece. Check out Emily’s minimalist chic street style, she’s rocking a patterned vintage scarf, white Zara jeans, charm rings and patent Clark brogues. If you’re a fashion minimalist, this look is for you!
TING It’s official, fashion’s obsession with collars has reached a whole new level. Today you can purchase a variety of different detachable collars in most high street stores. Street style star, Ting looks effortlessly amazing in her iconic Peter Pan collar dress, American Apparel patent shoes and vintage denim jacket. A detachable collar is the fastest way to update any outfit. Invest in one!
CAROL Like Marmite, you either love or hate brothel creepers. We love them! Expect a brothel creeper invasion as flatforms and platforms are said to be the footwear of summer 2012. In a polo neck top and a tasseled suede biker style jacket, we love Carolina’s inimitable street style. Her quirky cute leather vintage bag is amazing! Why don’t you save money and invest in a strong yet timeless leather bag, you won’t regret it!
We’ll be exploring Paris in the next issue!
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>>
CHERYL COLE ROCKS NUDE PUMPS, A FASHION MUST HAVE
IS BORN!
HOW TO STAY ONE FASHION FOOT AHEAD LIKE RIHANNA!
STYLE ICONS
Interviews by Sybil Odiaka
T
here was a time when the way a woman dressed was inspired by her personality. Today, women are in uniform. If Kate Middleton wears it, we should want it! If Rihanna approves, it’s a fashion must have. The media constantly portrays celebrities as style icons and us, as their disciples!
shapes and sizes, from all walks of life. Bricolage’s Style Icons dare to be different and are women like you!
You don’t have to be a celeb to set trends! Style icons come in all
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Rebekah Wing 20, Student & Fashion Intern
I
t’s very hard to explain your own style but I really love to wear more chic, sophisticated, feminine and sometimes a bit edgy pieces. Romantic looking materials like lace, crochet and sheer blouses are so totally me.
Your inspiration I would say the people from the streets are inspiring me a lot. I love seeing the catwalks and fashion magazines like Elle, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar etc. but they often seem to be so inapproachable.
Fashion hate I don’t really like the feather trend. Many stores sold feathery dresses and skirts last season, maybe it could look good on someone else but I can say it doesn’t suit me. I don’t like real fur either!
Fashion love I’m a big fan of all the pastels at the moment. It’s so girly yet chic. The studs and spikes trend is also very nice, it’s a great chance to do some fashion DIYs!
I can’t live without I can’t live without my simple black blazer. It’s so versatile!
Your top fashion tip Wear what you like and don’t buy anything which is on trend but you normally wouldn’t wear. You can end up feeling selfconscious and uncomfortable.
Blog www.flirting-with-fashion.blogspot.com
Twitter @littleclsyrose
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A black bag is a timeless wardrobe staple!
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Kim P. 24, Interior Designer
M
y style, where do I start? This question is always so hard! I would say it’s a mix of high street and thrifted, always accessorised with fun jewellery!
Your inspiration Fellow bloggers inspire me the most. I love reading other blogs to find out what’s new or what’s popular. It’s great to see an item you want worn by someone else to get a feel for the fit and read an honest review. I always see great outfits on other girls and think about whether I could pull that look off and if I can, how I’d style it.
Your top fashion tip My top fashion tip would be, be yourself! Style isn’t just about what brand you’re wearing, it’s about who you are and what you love. I gain inspiration from lots of other girls but I know what I like; I try new things but always keep a bit of me.
The best places to shop The high street is easy to shop although I love shopping online where you can browse for hours and really think about what you want or if you need the item. I find it’s great to compare different online stores to find a bargain. I also would recommend shopping in charity shops. You don’t go in looking for a specific item but if you go in with an open mind and you’re prepared to take time looking through everything you’re guaranteed to find something different for pennies!
I can’t live without Disco pants! I can’t rave about these enough. They’re £70 and that is a hell of a lot of money for leggings/trousers. I would never normally splurge like that but I have to say they’re the best item I’ve bought this year. I wear them day and night; they go with pretty much everything and are so flattering on your figure.
Blog www.sweetmondayblog.blogspot.com
Twitter @KimParslow
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Ombre hair, a trend we are loving it!
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Dakota Branch-S. 16, Student & Sales Assistant
I
’d say I’m a cross between an edgy rock chick and a retro/vintage junkie.
Your Inspiration My mum, she has always had an amazing style and dress sense. It’s her where most of my passion comes from. Other people inspire too. I like the way some people put pieces together; it’s so fascinating how what you wear can define you as a person.
Fashion love I love florals and pastels which are everywhere this summer. Dungarees are also making a comeback, love them too! For shoes, I love, love, love, platforms and flatforms. Hi-top wedges are also amazing as well as another up and coming trend.
Your top fashion tip Buy what you like and not because everyone has it. Don’t force yourself to like something that is simply not you.
The best places to shop Primark! It’s cliché but they do have some good stuff! New Look, H&M and various different markets.
I can’t live without A watch! I have a watch on all the time. If I don’t have a watch on, I feel naked!
Blog www.thefashi0nistanextdoor.blogspot.com
Twitter DrunkOnL0ve
18 • b r i c o l a g e
Don’t be afraid of prints, there are so many ways to wear a printed piece!
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Georgi A. 22, Creative and Copy Intern & Freelance Fashion and Lifestyle Writer
I
t changes daily! I usually dress to suit whatever mood I’m in, but mostly my looks have a feminine feel.
Your inspiration My family and closest friends, my mood, anything from a song on the radio to an old movie.
Fashion hate I’m not really feeling the crop top. I think they’re great, just not for me!
Fashion love I can’t get enough of statement necklaces, mixing prints, pink lipstick, lilac nails, neons and maxi lengths!
Your top fashion tip Fashion is all about confidence, just have fun with it, never force anything and just go with it!
Your favourite designers/brands I love By Malene Birger, Carlos Miele and I’m obsessed with Dannijo.
The best places to shop I buy a lot from Asos, Zara and H&M. If I find any little vintage shops, I’ll be in them for hours!
I can’t live without My gold studded ankle boots. They’re great to add a bit of an edge to an outfit.
Blog www.7wondersblog.net
Twitter @7wondersblog
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Invest in a statement necklace!
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Sarah P. 24, Student & Fashion and Lifestyle Blogger
I
t’s quite casual. You’ll rarely catch me in a pair of heels - even on a night out. I like bold colours, plenty of lace and floral prints. I think outfits are all about the detail, so I’m happy to buy a basic cheap dress and then jazz it up by adding lots of lovely accessories.
Your inspiration My main source of inspiration comes from when I read other people’s blogs. It’s nice to be able to follow the way a person’s personal style develops and it’s a great way to get ideas for how to style items.
Fashion hate UGG boots! I just think they’re hideous and incredibly overpriced for what they are - they don’t last five minutes in the wet weather!
I can’t live without My black American Apparel leggings. They are my go to item whenever I don’t have a clue about what to put on. Stick a trendy tee over the top or a woolly jumper during the winter and voila! Super versatile.
Fashion love I’m mad on statement necklaces at the moment. The bigger the better as far as I’m concerned. Joomi Lim have an amazing collection - if I had the money I’d definitely be splashing out on some of their creations.
Your top fashion tip Just be yourself and dress the way you feel comfortable. It’s no good following a trend if the trend doesn’t suit your style. The most important part of looking good is feeling confident in what you wear.
Blog www.amplecurvature.blogspot.com
Twitter @SarahhhP
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Tan shoes only compliment!
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High Fashion On The High Street Words by Sybil Odiaka
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The
a
Print P rty There’s a print for
everyone!
LEFT TO RIGHT: DOLCE GABBANA SS12, HOLLY FULTON SS12, CARVEN SS12, PRADA SS12 & D&G SS12
P
rint galore pretty much sums up the SS12 RTW collections. From dresses to shoes, there wasn’t a collection on the runway without a patterned piece. The last ever D&G RTW collection gave us a variety of chain and bandana prints. Dolce & Gabbana went gaga, going for bold fruit and vegetable patterned pieces. Holly Fulton stuck to her signature art deco patterns while Carven gave us some vibrant tribal prints. Catching the infectious print fever on the runways, the high street is jam packed with patterned pieces for this summer. From Aztec to floral, there’s so much to choose from. We are loving the vibrant prints of sunset backed palm trees and exotic flowers. 26 • b r i c o l a g e
For the ultimate summer look, partner your print piece with tan leather, whether shoes or a tote bag. A white dress will always look amazing with a patterned blaze.
Topshop Scarf Print Zip Bralet
£18.00
Topshop Tropical Floral Blazer
£65.00
H&M’s Conscious Collection Dress
£14.99
Lazy Oaf Clown Backpack
£55.00 Miss Selfridge Aztec Overnight Bag
£38.00
River Island Lime Print Dress
£25.00
Primark High Waisted Shorts
£10.00
ASOS Aztec Lace Up Shoes
£16.00
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Pretty in
Pastel LEFT TO RIGHT: LOUIS VUITTON SS12, DIANE VON FURSTENBURG SS12, CHOLE SS12, 3.1 PHILLIP LIM SS12 & ELIE SAAB SS12
F
rom the girly girl to the tomboy, everyone will be in pastel this summer and we can’t wait to rock the trend to the fullest! We’re talking pastel sheer blouses and pastel denim shorts. Pastel overload! During the SS12 RTW season, pastel colours were all over the runways. We’re guessing many designers were inspired by retro candies and the 50s. House of Holland went 100% pastel while 3.1 Phillip Lim showed us how to clash pastel pieces with style. Elie Saab gave us more than pretty, we got elegance in pastel. You don’t have to be girly to embrace the pastel trend. With sheer shirts of pastel blue 28 • b r i c o l a g e
and mint, there’s a pastel shade for everyone. If you’re going to go pastel this summer, a lace dress or a sheer blouse would be the perfect investment. Both are timeless and can be worn with almost anything!
Tip
Silver & pastel shades, a perfect match!
New Look Denim Shorts
£19.99
New Look Sheer Blouse
£14.99
Topshop Lace Dress
£48.00
H&M Blouse
£7.99
ASOS Bucket Bag Rare Chiffon Dress
£55.00
£35.00
Invest in a lace dress! b r i c o l a g e • 29
the In
WILD
LEFT TO RIGHT: DONNA KARAN SS12, BURBERRY PRORSUM SS12, GIVENCHY SS12, BOTTEGA VENETA SS12 & ALBERTA FERRETTI SS12
S
afari shades and tribal prints made a return to the runway during the SS12 RTW season. From animal prints to beige, creams, khaki, tan, golds & browns, what’s there not to love? Givenchy gave us rich leathers while Burberry delivered an African inspired version of their signature parka jacket. The best thing about this trend is definitely the huge chunky statement jewellery and exotic accessories. From weaved bags to big sunglasses and cocktail rings, you can definitely call this fashion heaven. During the beginning of summer, this lovable trend always manages to creep its 30 • b r i c o l a g e
way back into the fashion lime light. It’s as if it’s a summer fashion law, ‘thou shall wear safari themed clothing during summer’! Hell yeah, why not?! We love it!
ASOS Leather Weave Bag
£60.00
Topshop Chiffon Shirt
£36.00
Rare Drape Dress
£44.00 Motel Sheer Vest
£23.00
H&M Snake Skin Blouse
£19.99
Tip: One animal print piece per outfit is best!
Miss Selfridge Leopard Print Shorts
£15.00
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b r i c o l a g e’s
Best Beauty Buys Words by Hannah Fenn
1) Hydra Life Pro-Youth Extreme Cream, £41.00, by Dior Smother your dehydrated skin in this rich daily moisturiser by Dior, proven to hydrate as well as improve the visibility of your skin. Enriched with compressed mango butter, this brand new pro-youth moisturiser drenches the skin with extreme richness, nutrition and softness, leaving your skin flawless and hydrated. Introduce this moisturiser to your daily skincare range and you will wonder how you’ve ever managed without it! 2) Rogue Coco Creme Lip Colour, £22.00, by Chanel This classic creme lip colour by Chanel has easily found a place in every one of our handbags here at the Bricolage HQ. Created by a hydra tender complex, one application delivers 8 hours of hydration as well as softer, smoother and well-conditioned lips. With a choice of 32 elegant shades, there’s one for every woman!
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5 1
2
3) Lili-Pili Hair Condition, £18.00, by Molton Brown This hair condition is a beautiful combination of the Australian lili-pili fruit and paddy rice peptides. With aromas of green lime, mandarin and ginger, you’ll fall in love with it at first smell. This luxurious hair treat is ideal for all hair types and perfect for keeping hair shiny as well as tangle free. 4) Bronze Original Tan, £29.50, by Dior Swirl a bronzing brush in this and gently cover your face, focusing on your cheekbones to enhance the colour of your skin as well as to create a ‘holiday glow’ all year round! This is Dior’s first bronzer that does not only concentrate on the colour of your skin but also the condition. This bronzer lasts forever and is suitable for even the driest skin. 5) High Impact Mascara, £16.00 by Clinique A classic mascara by Clinique, this ‘high impact’ mascara has multi benefits including maximum volume, definition and length, with no need for false eyelashes. This product reduces clumping and also coats eyelashes evenly. This mascara is perfect for the day as well as for a night out.
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If you have a problem, Bricolage’s beauty agony aunt may have a solution
BEAUTY TIPS & SECRETS We took to the streets of London to ask the public what their best beauty secrets and tips were. We’re sure you’ll find them useful!
Dear
Susie, Dear Susie, I am a nurse and I do a lot of nigh shifts, I constantly have dar k circles ar ound my eyes. How can I get rid of t hese? Mary, 22, Northampton
Dear Mary, The only way (as well as the best way) to properly get rid of dark circles is to have the recommended 8 hours a night. There are a number of ways you can make dark circles less obvious. Try keeping a set of cold spoons in the fridge to place under your eyes. Not only will it reduce puffiness, it’s a great wakeup call! Cucumbers are another great way to reduce dark circles! Good luck! Lots of love, Susie <3
“I always apply two coats of mascara, but make sure to allow the first coat to dry prior the second coat. This will avoid clumping.” Rebecca Tapley, 23
“I use cool cucumber slices to reduce eye puffiness and dark circles after a night out!” Leah Clark, 21
“When pencilling in my eyebrows, I always begin at the inner corners and work outwards towards my temples.” Rachel Housden, 19
“To keep my skin glowing I make sure I always eat lots of tomatoes, it’s rich in vit A, vit C and potassium. Great ingredients for beautiful skin!” Louise Serjeant, 17
“I always curl my lashes twice for a more natural and rounded curl.” Courtney Bedford, 25
“I make sure I apply lip liner before applying lipstick and I never use lip liner that is darker than my lipstick.” Lydia Chambers, 18
“I just simply make sure I drink plenty of water every day, not only does it make you look great it makes you feel great too.” Chloe Bennett, 22
“I store my nail polish in the fridge! It maintains its smooth consistency.” Marrisa Wall, 20
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tr av el
Words & Photography by Ellie Johnson
B
ricolage presents The Summer 2012 Travel Guide brought to you by our Travel Editor, Ellie Johnson. From the must go cities to the best hotel deals, our travel guide is here to make your travelling experience as pleasant as possible.
b r i c o l a g e â&#x20AC;˘ 37
Lake Garda
L
ake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. It is located in the north between Brescia and Verona as well as in between Venice and Milan. Glaciers formed the alpine at the end of the Ice Age.
Picturesque villages, medieval castles and lakeside promenades dot the shoreline. The lake has a diverse landscape with beaches and rocky cliffs. The lake is known for its clear water, great for swimming, sailing and windsurfing. From young couples to families, there is something for everyone at Lake Garda. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re into sports, history, family leisure activities, shopping or just lazing around eating ice-cream and watching the sun set, Lake Garda has something for you!
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Attractions Alto Garda Bresciano A protected peaceful mountain wilderness, high above Lake Garda. It is a wonderful place to visit. Rocca Scaligera A castle and ruin in Sirmione, wonderful for exploring and taking in the fantastic yet magical views. The castle walls extend into the lake. From the top of the tower, the views are spectacular. Sirmione itself also hosts some wonderful restaurants and clothes shops. Gardone Known for its beautiful park of exotic plants, its historic centre dates back to the middle ages with medieval and baroque buildings present. Gardaland If you’re looking for the perfect day out and want something fun, Gardaland is the place to go! The largest amusement park in Italy, there are free shuttle buses from Pesheria train station and there is also a Gardaland bus, which runs through many towns. So go to Gardaland and have a fun day out!
Where To Stay Hotel Gallo - £26-£52 per night For those seeking an affordable yet top hotel, Hotel Gallo is the one for you. A ‘Hidden Gem’, this hotel gives stunning views of the area and is close to the main square with several bars and restaurants. There are a number of stunning walks close by, either up on the mountain or down by the lake. The restaurant terrace looks over the mountains and the lake, a truly spectacular view. Hotel Panoramica - £48-£93 per night Hotel Panoramica is a pleasant family run hotel on the hill above the bay of Salo. The hospitality is genuine and pleasant. The pool is clean as well as large and the restaurant serves wonderful home cooked meals. Hotel Madrigale - £78-113 per night Situated in a quiet position overlooking Lake Garda, Madrigale is only 2km away from the resort of Garda. It also boasts two large swimming pools.
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Milan
M
ilan is the second largest city in Italy. Financially, it is the most important. It is the center of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest urban and metropolitan area.
While not considered as beautiful as some Italian cities, and having been destroyed during World War II by bomb raids, the city has rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan business capital. Milan is worth a visit due to how different it is to other parts of Italy.
40 â&#x20AC;˘ b r i c o l a g e
Attractions Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio One of the oldest churches in Milan, it was built in 379-386 AD. In 1099, the church was rebuilt in a Romanesque style. It is a wonderful historical place to visit. Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) This is the world’s largest gothic cathedral. Its construction started in 1386. It continued to its completion in 1809. It is best visited in the day as the vibrant mosaic illuminates the interior and stain glass. The church is a five-aisled cruciform, seating 40,000. The cathedral is a wonderful yet beautiful piece of gothic architecture and you can not visit Milan without seeing its beauty. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II This is a four story glass-domed arcade, which is entered from the Piazza in front of the cathedral. So the two can be visited at the same time! It was originally built as a link to the Opera house but has now become a place to go. With many shops inside, it’s the place to relax, catch up with your friends and escape the heat or rain of the day.
Where To Stay Il Girasole - £65 - £145 per night Often described as ‘perfectly charming’, the hosts go out of their way to help you. The hotel is clean and unique with rooms containing small kitchenettes for basic needs. Adler Hotel Milano - £30 - £91 per night Affordable, simple and clean, the street that this hotel sits on is lovely, peaceful and quiet. The staff are always helpful as well as friendly. Breakfast is simple but just what you need to start your day. Piccollo Hotel - £41 - £113 per night This hotel is wonderful! The staff are friendly and willing to help with all of your needs. The air con is brilliant, ideal for Italy’s summer. The rooms are clean and spacious. The breakfast is very good and the hotel itself is a 5 minute walk to the local supermarket and tram stop.
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Rome
R
ome is the capital of Italy and definitely worth a visit. It is divided into several districts. The ‘historical centre’ is small, only around 4% of the city’s area. Architecturally and culturally, Rome has many contrasts. The centre of Rome is mainly ancient, and modern buildings are usually in the suburbs unlike Milan. For two weeks in August, many of Rome’s inhabitants shut up their shops and go on their own vacations. Many stores and restaurants will be closed during this time. At this time, the temperature is not exactly pleasant. If you do decide to travel at this time, which is not encouraged, be aware that many places will be closed.
42 • b r i c o l a g e
Attractions Collosseum In our opinion, the Collosseum is the most impressive building of the Roman Empire. The structure has fallen into ruins, but is still a beautiful sight. The building measuring 188m by 156m and reaching 48 meters high, accommodates 55,000 spectators! This is a must see when visiting Rome. Trevi Fountain This is another must see when travelling to Rome. The Trevi Fountain is the most famous and beautiful fountain in Rome. The Trevi Fountain is the end part of the Aqua Virgo, which brings water all the way from the Salcone Springs, suppling the fountains in Rome with water. The central figure is Neptune, god of the sea riding a chariot in the shape of a shell pulled by two sea horses. A beautiful place to visit, if you do decide to go, toss a coin over your shoulder into the bottom of the fountain.
Where To Stay Hotel Golden - £73- £146 per night A lovely gem in Rome, the staff know the city well and are helpful with all of your needs. The rooms are clean and tidy. Some may think the rooms are small but I think they are perfect. The hotel is wonderful and homely. Hotel Lodi - £48-£243 per night Great value and excellent service, this hotel can become very expensive in peak times but you can catch it just right and stay very cheaply. The rooms are comfortable and a good size. There is a kitchen which you can use. Hotel Lodi is a short walk away from the centre of Rome! Purple Home - £62-£93 per night With friendly and helpful staff, it is the perfect place to stay if you want a self catering apartment for a reasonable price.
b r i c o l a g e • 43
Venice
V
enice, a city in north east Italy set on a group of 118 islands separated by canals and bridges. For many years, it has been known as a popular tourist destination for lovers. The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s romantic appeal is timeless This sanctuary is pretty much the same as it was hundreds of years ago which also adds to its charm. The small traffic free streets are perfect for walking as well as taking in the scenery. Venice is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world. This is due to it being the greatest city of art. Tourism has been a major sector of the Venetian industry since the 18th century. In the 19th century, Venice became a fashionable place for the rich and famous. It has continued to be a fashionable city in vogue right into today.
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Attractions St Mark’s Basilica This is the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Venice. It is the most famous of the city’s churches due to the best known Byzantine architecture. It lies at the eastern end of the Piazza San Marco. Grand Canal The banks of the Grand Canal are lined with more than 170 buildings, dating back to the 13th and 18th century. The Grand Canal can be seen wonderfully from the Rialto Bridge and is definitely worth a visit. A great photo opportunity. St Marks Square Piazza San Marco was constructed in the 9th century as a small square dotted with trees. This is now the largest square in the city. There are restaurants, museums and everything you need around this square. Make sure you check it out!
Where To Stay Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo - £126-142 per night This wonderful Venetian style hotel won the Traveller’s Choice 2012 Award. It is a stone throw away from several main attractions including St Marks Square. The service is top and professional. Casa Nicolo Pruli - £87-£325 A wonderful hotel, it can become pretty expensive at peak season. However, it can be caught for a decent price. The hotel is of a beautiful Venetian style, in a perfect location. Hotel Bepi Ciosto - £28-£53 per night If you’re looking for a cheaper hotel (as good hotels in Venice can be quite expensive) then the Hotel Bepi Ciosto is just perfect. Just 15 minutes from the centre of Venice, it is clean and tidy. The staff are also amazing, always ready to help!
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the bir th of bricolage. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrate with cake! Photography by
Heather Clifford
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V I N T A GE From food to shopping, all things vintage, compiled by our very own Editor, Cherronda Freeman
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Recipe of the Week FOR THE BISCUITS (Makes approx. 40 circles to give you 20 finished biscuits) + 225g Unsalted Butter + 225g Golden Caster Sugar + 4 Heaped tbsp. of Golden Syrup + 340g Self-raising Flour + 115g Corn Flour + 115g Cocoa Powder + 4 tbsp. of water (more can be added if needed) FOR THE ICING + 2 tbsp. of Cocoa Powder + 4 tbsp. of warm water + 115g Unsalted Butter + 6 tbsp. of Icing Sugar + ½ tbsp. of high quality Vanilla
AUNT MARY’S BOURBON BISCUITS
The Vintage Shopping Guide
WHAT TO DO To make the biscuits: 1. Cream butter, sugar and golden syrup in a bowel.
1 EUALABEE 116 Collage Road Kensal Rise NW10 5HD +44 (0)20 8968 5536 Mon-Sat: 10-6pm Sunday: 10-4pm Eulabee is Varanddah’s younger sister. The store opened in 2008 and is based on the same principles as its big sister: boasting a style which is beautiful, retro and slightly quirky but most of all it is affordable. Simone Russell and Penny Meachin have successfully created a funky and laid back lifestyle within the shop. The focus in this store is homeware such as cushions, cake stands and even game tables, whilst the whole store experience feels like a fun day out.
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2. Sift the flour and cocoa powder then beat into the creamed mixture. 3. Knead to form a smooth thick dough. 4. Preheat the oven to 180c/gas mark 4. Line a baking tray with baking powder. 5. Lightly flour a work surface and roll the dough to a thickness of 3-4mm. 6. Use a 5cm circular biscuit cutter to cut 40 circles. 7. Lay each circle on the tray, making sure you leave space between them. 8. Bake in the oven for 10-12 mins until they are hard yet firm. 9. Let them cool. To make the icing: 1. Sift the cocoa into a bowl, then add the warm water and stir. 2. In a separate bowl, beat the butter until smooth and then add the icing sugar and vanilla. 3. Combine both mixtures together. Using the icing, sandwich two biscuits together. Finish by dusting the biscuit with icing sugar.
2 LOOP 15 Camden Passage Islington N1 BEA +44 (0)20 7288 1160 www.loopknitting.com Tue-Sat: 11-6pm Except Thurs: 11-7.30pm Sun: 12-5pm With over 100 varieties from all over the globe, it boasts 8ply Mongolian cashmere, organic merino, Peruvian alpaca, silk, llama fibre, Japanese bamboo yarn and various possibilities of cotton. The store has an upstairs lounge, which invites anyone who wishes to come in and do some knitting. This is also where they hold SOS sessions with tea & cake for those who wish to get hep and guidance. Late night openings to adapt to various lifestyles and also shopping leisurely for textile themed gifts, mixed media art works, jewellery and textured ceramics.
3 THE POWDER ROOM 136 Columbia Road E2 7RG +44(0)844 879 4928 www.thepowderpuffgirls.com Saturday: 12-6pm Sunday: 10-4pm By popular demand, The Powder Room, in its all candy-stripped glory, has landed safely in the East End. The girls are immaculately dressed in 1950s inspired uniforms, in a true old fashioned silver screen style. These former flying doctors of the beauty world are now firmly established as a fixed entity on Columbia Road, albeit at the weekends only for the time being. Nail treatments are around 30 or 40 minutes each with prices starting at £20. Prices include tea and biscuits. However, if glamour is a weekday vice, don’t forget the Soho branch in Marshal Street, which is open Monday to Saturday.
The Vintage Tea & Cake Party
PRIMROSE BAKERY CUPCAKE DECORATING MASTERCLASS DURATION: 1.5 hours LOCATION: Primrose Bakery, 42 Tavistock Street, WC2E 7PB CONTACT NO.: 0207 836 3638 COST: £45.00 per person 12 people per class. SUITABLE FOR: Beginners as well as all skill levels. Enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon in our Covent Garden store creating beautiful iced cupcakes. Learn how to perfect the Primrose Bakery signature swirl, make a piping bag and pipe words, decorate regular and mini cupcakes and then take home or eat what you have made in a variety of flavours for everyone to enjoy. The package also includes other goodies including complimentary tea, coffee and cold drinks during the class, a Primrose Bakery cupcake recipe, a postcard signed by Martha Swift and Lisa Thomas and a voucher for a free delicious primrose cupcake. After the class is finished, everyone gets a presentation box to take their decorated cupcakes away in. There will be ample opportunity to ask questions and learn about cupcake making, decorating and general cake baking from one of our senior chefs who will be running the classes.
Sunday July 22nd: 12pm-1.30pm or 2pm-3.30pm To book a class or to get any further information please contact Primrose Bakery at: Primrose Hill: 69 Gloucester Avenue, London NW1 8LD Tel: 020 7483 4222 Covent Garden: 42 Tavistock Street, London WC2E 7PB Tel: 020 7836 3638 Email: primrose-bakery@btconnect.com Please Note: If you wish to amend your booking date, this must be done at least 10 days prior to the class. There is a minimum attendance of 6 participants for the class to commence. In the unlikely event that we cancel a class, you will receive a full refund. Primrose Bakery cannot take responsibility for any loss of money (including travel costs) resulting in the cancellation of a class.
Places are strictly limited, so early bookings are essential.
CLASS DATES AND TIMES JUNE 2012 Sunday 10th: 12pm-1.30pm or 2pm-3.30pm Sunday June 24th: 12pm-1.30pm or 2pm-3.30pm JULY 2012 Sunday July 8th: 12pm-1.30pm or 2pm-3.30pm
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a vin-
tage affair
Photography by Shannon Purcell