Urban Coco Issue 4 by Urban Coco

www.urban-coco.com

Urban Coco Birthday and Beach Edition

Issue Four

June 2012

Etta Smith Fashion, lifestyle and music magazine

Men in Business

Jordan Odu io d tu

S y ut

& r i a

ink Gorilla is a leading lifestyle marketing agency based in Leeds. Headed up by socialite and boy about town Jordan Odu, we caught up with him to find out more about life in business.

a e B

H y ss

e n n

You dominate the Leeds scene with your discounts and offers available through your popular app. Are there plans of expanding in to new cities? Yes we have some amazing things in the pipeline – watch this space! You recently launched PG Vouchers, tell us more about this? We launched the APP two years ago and have just over 12’000 users, however it was just for Iphone so it cut out a massive group of people who also want to save money. So over a quick drink we decided to join forces with Hairy Lemon and launched a voucher site. It’s different from the rest of the sites out there as it’s free for everyone to use, all they need to do is print off the voucher. You can get discounts in loads of different places such as Levi’s, Accent, Casa Mia, Malmaison, Rebecca Charles and Urban Turka and Harvey Nichols. It works for businesses as they get a great uptake and we don’t take a massive cut from them. So everybody wins!

Hair Services Include: • Specialising in Afro Caribbean and European Hairdressing • Racoon 100% human hair extensions • Micro ring extensions • Perming • Relaxers • Hair colour specialist • Colour correction • Intense conditioning treatments • Weaves & Plaits • Stocking caps • Hair patterns

Contact: (0113) 2623707 To book an appointment today! Mexborough Grove, Leeds, LS7 3DZ

Tell us about Pink Gorilla, when did you start it? I started off by flyering for clubs & bars which was good to get in to places and meet people. Then I did a few nights. But started doing Pink Gorilla five years ago and since then over time it’s evolved from doing nights and parties, to a marketing agency working with companies such as Harvey Nichols, Office, Revolution and Aqua to having an APP to a free voucher site. But we are essentially a marketing company with the benefit of these extras! It’s great as every day is different and it’s going from strength to strength. What has been your career highlight to date? To be honest right now is a highlight as we will be taking Pink Gorilla outside of Leeds and the fact I have my own APP on the Itunes store. Not many people can say that.

Where do you hope to see your brand in 5 years? In an ideal world we would go national with www.pgvouchers.co.uk and have work marketing and running events in those cities. Also an ofﬁce like the one in Ugly Betty! Where can people keep up to date with everything you are doing? Follow us on twitter @pinkgorilla1 or search Pink Gorilla on facebook. If you want the best discounts around download our APP on Itunes

Contents 4 Lust List

36 Week in the Life of

8 Vidal Sassoon

38 Street Chic

Check out this months must have pieces, perfect for Summer.

We talk about the late legend.

12 Bikini Shoot

We couldn’t get to the beach, so we brought the beach to us.

20 Amanda Wakeley

Read all about our meeting with the fabulous fashion designer on her recent visit to Leeds.

This month we see what it’s like to be a Radio presenter with Capital FM’s Jojo.

Did you get spotted by the Capital FM style hunters?

40 Competition

Fancy getting in to festival fever, then enter this months competition.

41 Mocha’s and Mojito’s

We tried out the new Midtown Grill in Leeds.

22 Highstreet Highlights

42 Socialite

26 Etta Smith Interview

47 Spotlight

We’ve searched the high street to ﬁnd the best bits on offer.

Read all about our cover girl.

See what we have been up to this months, did you get spotted?

We shine the light on rising star Georgia Barry.

29 Nicole Farhi

We had the pleasure of meeting the fantastically French fashion designer.

30 For and Against

This months topical debate returns, focusing on beach bodies.

32 Summer Scents

The nicest smelling perfumes on the block.

33 Dating Disasters

Old favourite is back again, prepare to laugh.

35 Interiors

Our Greedy Little Girl has been sourcing the most amazing Pieces on the market for your home.

Contributors

Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief Laura Bartlett

Art Director and Retoucher: Lara Ostertag

Senior Designer Anna Wanczyk

Photographer: Simon Paterson

Writers: Dale Ellis Georgina Ryall Stacey Wilkinson

Make up Artist: Natalie Willingham Models: Anisha Hamilton- Sutton

Lucy Ashwell Videographers: Tyron Maynard Mick Hone Shutterstock credits: Page 1illustrations by Irmak Akcadogan Pages 2, 34,35 illustrations by Cherry Blossom Girl Pages 4,5 illustrations by Mcherevan Pages 28,29 Jane Rix Pages 40 illustration by F-F-F-F

www. urban-coco. com

usly o i r e s ady, s year e r l a une re i s thi ose whe g? I suppe flies goin say tim ing fun av do they n you’re hhat!) whe esy or w (che

rtlett a Ba Laur

e will fully w ll of e p o ar, h o wear a t imwe d sw er to get n a s a m e . m id su ed h o beac ing a hot ve featur ges too t et g a v ha be ha igns we socialite p o, did you s t r e u p d o u e t th sI been k ou uch a Chec we have as m t a is h h t ding see w d? y rea e feedpapp e you enjo together. ear your drop h r p it o H 10 o ve to tting d pu would lo ancoco20 . e y jo m , en ays o.co @urb As alw weet me rban-coc t u @ o s a r back email lau an to e e m n o ial n spec Urba e is a unched in z a e la I ag un since t h’s m k in J mont s 2 years ine. Bac rite abou z This w k a r ld s g a u a a o m w m s it ll I c do ne me a s an onli anted to and do a have I a s w o I d n c e ll a o e a L C p d to when events in shion ma ave got 0 1 20 fa eIh nd e r a h e t n h n fashio the city o roud of w ne. ts hligh p t alo to pu I’m pretty done it rs with hig nch u a ve y to sa ering I ha illiant 2 ye eek, the la , ls r o id W b h s n a n ic o io c e had on Fash Harvey N est of all v a h I Lond dition at ts and b ne e e do ding inclu rst print s at even ple I hav ﬁ rd eo of the ting awa ll ing p n get a amaz prese g all the ou or rty y a p e r a o in to b e for . 15th t meet he way. n m a in t ’t w l jo rs old row along ay I don e you wil 2 yea th Anyw tal, I hop y turning e we will er ab en h b r. im w e y t t n s t u h se te m ar Leed the g mont lebra to ce orman B See you in hand, this ldn’t N u , ... June old party he issue in ut we co the t to t ce b ght n u k o o c a righ r r a b fo eb on a y Now ts of sun oon So, w lo ach. ay after n for the da d e a b h the we ith, und hop it to n a S over a s entley-Sm make to us! O k B o o e t ir g e la h in beac all Lane w s artist, C her amaz indow u C w h busy our fabulo cene wit ls in the e s g the d e h r in o c e s a h m a w n a be had our owc h d desig s e t e s it a cre vour then annequin fa s e a y W w m . skills like live m m one of hole day in the w fro g zz actin wimwear . The it of a bu utube o b lls UK ts lates ncing Do reated a e to our Y ideos. c a v ib D r d s , c n e s s a er ub cen vely of fun t to s ind the s ith the lo loads n’t forge h w e t h b o it e o o w h h city. D l to see t r cover s interview ks n ne ou d my ssive tha ect a chan also had e r Ma can perf . u e e We o u h y t s is g h, Smit ar in this r providin Etta ut fo g st y r in e ugho is k r the e Ba ot. e thro on in m h e s h t n o y to Su for the sh a running ed heavil e e us venu will notic have foc You s we nth a o m this

r Edito

r e t t e l s ’ r o t i Ed

£19 F&F at Tesco

£49 La Redoute

ASOS.com £50

£69 Ofﬁce

Aztec Kaftan £35 from Accessorize

£345 Wolford

Matalan £20

Boohoo.com £20

Dune £55

www. urban-coco. com

Urban Outﬁtters Playsuit £38

river island £30

Primark £17

TU at Sainsburys. Pink Floral Swimsuit £15 £1.85 for one PopKakeTM or £14 for a gift box of 8 www.popkakery.com

Next £40

Diana Vickers at very.co.uk £59

Floral print Underwire Top £8.50 Black Floral Short £4 from Dunnes

Dunnes £27 www. urban-coco. com

Urban Coco Advertorial

Ruby James Jewellery

uby James Jewellery was launched in 2007 by Debbie James, a Yorkshire based designer with a passion for holistic therapy and crystal healing.

It was due to her love of gems and crystals that lead her down the jewellery designing path. As a self taught designer, Debbie proudly hand crafts every piece by hand. With a high level of quality and attention to detail, it is clear how much pride is taken in her work. Working with semi precious gems, genuine Swarovski crystals and Sterling Silver, Debbie takes inspiration from all things natural. From rainbows, ﬂowers and trees she seeks inspiration from all around her in the rural part of Yorkshire she lives which comes across in all of the pieces where a romantic feel is also evident. Perfect for day or evening wear, each design is simple yet attractive and can really add a level of class and sunshine to any outﬁt. Debbie’s mission is to brighten even the darkest of days with her jewellery. All jewellery comes beautifully gift packaged with free P&P and has the Ruby James signature of a tiny faceted genuine Ruby Gemstone.

Visit www.rubyjamesjewellery.co.uk today to find out more. 6

www. urban-coco. com

A ReямБned Unwind 27th, 28th, 29th July 2012 Broughton Hall, Yorkshire

MAIN STAGE

SUMMER CAMP / CHEW LIPS BENJAMIN FRANCIS LEFTWICH / LUCY ROSE

CASHIER NO9 / SMOOVE AND TURRELL / LETS BUY HAPPINESS MARY EPWORTH / JUAN ZELADA / JENNY O / THE LOOSE SALUTE / SHAKE TIGER SHAKE PIP MOUNTJOY / LIGERS / JOHN MACKIE / HANNAH TRIGWELL / MASKS / THE COOPERS / MATT BELMONT / ZEMMY

DJs BACK2BASICS / DAVE BEER / BUCKLEY/CHRIS DUCKENFIELD/DANIELLE MOORE / NEIL DIABLO PBR STREET GANG / FRENCHY/TRISTAN DA CUNHA / DEATH ON THE BALCONY / CHINNY/DISCO MUMS SPEAKERS STUART MACONIE / JON RONSON / PAT LONG / RICHARD FOX / BETTAKULTCHA

FRINGE MAGICIANS / HUMAN SIZE PUPPETS / SMALLEST THEATRE IN THE WORLD INTERACTIVE PERFORMANCE PIECES / WISHING TREES / RECITALS / AND MORE TBA... KIDS A WHOLE NEW PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES / WHITE RABBIT CABARET AND KINDRED CAFE / WORKSHOPS / MOVIES / MAGICIANS / YOGA / ZORBING / SCIENCE LABS / DJING CLASSES / VINTAGE GAMES / TREASURE HUNT / KIDS ONLY LOOS GAMES BEARDED KITTEN ARE BACK IN 2012 / GRAVY WRESTLING / YORKSHIRE PUDDING EATING CONTEST / RHUBARB THRASHING / YORKSHIRE TEA MAKING CONTEST / SCARBOROUGH SKIP OFF / HAY BALE ROLLING / YORKSHIRE COAL CARRYING CHAMPIONSHIP / RHUBARB CRUMBLE RELAY / TUG OF WAR OF THE ROSES / FLAT CAP THROWING CINEMA WE LOOK TO BRING YOU THOUGHT PROVOKING DOCUMENTARIES / UPSIDE DOWN: THE CREATION RECORDS STORY / LAST SHOP STANDING STALLS POP UP RESTAURANTS, TAKEAWAYS COVERING ALL CONTINENTS / ICE CREAM / BAKERIES / CANDY FLOSS / TEA & COFFEE SHOPS AS WELL AS NON FOOD STALLS SPA A MAGIC PLACE TO PAMPER YOURSELF SILLY / SWEDISH MASSAGE / SPECIALISED SEATED ACCUPRESSURE / SHIATSU / THAI YOGA MASSAGE / REFLEXOLOGY / INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE / DEEP TISSUE WITH OPTIONAL AROMATHERAPY

themagicloungeabout.net powered by

Vidal Sassoon

t is with a great sadness that we have lost Vidal Sassoon this year. He was born on 17 January 1928 and died on 9 May 2012 at the age of 84. Sassoon was a hairdresser but he was also so much more and I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think that many people really grasp how culturally significant he was.

www. urban-coco. com

Vidal Sassoon The Daily Telegraph newspaper called him an “antifascist warrior hairdresser.” Over his life he was considered an artist, a human rights advocate and a revolutionist as well as a keen pilates practitioner. Watching an 80 year old man almost in the splits was impressive in itself. Whilst hairdressing will always be considered his greatest achievement he also established the Vidal Sassoon International Centre for the Study of Anti-Semitism in Jerusalem. Growing up Sassoon did not have what would be considered the easiest of upbringings. His father left the family unit when Sassoon was aged 3 and with his mother unable to look after him he ended up living in an orphanage until the age of 11. As the war broke out he went through evacuation and later fought in Israel for a year at the age of 20. Coming back from the war, like many in similar circumstances, he was instilled with a sense of discipline and a new raw understanding of the bigger picture. He could have gone in many directions but it was hairdressing that he chose. Whilst working as a ‘shampoo boy’ and learning his trade in the 1950s

The ways in which they curled, set and styled their hair changed constantly but there was always a preparation process and strong products involved. Whilst Sassoon did go on to sell products with a campaign that claimed “if you don’t look good, we don’t look good” his cuts were not styled with the same level of lacquer or products as in previous times. Sassoon was thriving in the 60s and sat comfortably alongside the women’s liberation movement. Whilst women entered the workplace more and more, the time they had to spend on their hair was less and the fashions changed with this in the blazing trail of Sassoon. The cultural practise and styling of hair were timely pursuits and often signiﬁed the time women had

L N A O ID SSO A S

on their hands, whether they did their hair themselves, had maids, or later visited the salon once a week. Women spent much of their lives within what Sassoon saw as the ‘tyranny of the salon’ but his styles meant that their hair would fall naturally, even if the cuts themselves were bold. The styles didn’t involve the same processes of previous times and he was always encouraging his models to shake their hair to prove that they would fall back into place. Aside from the part he played in the establishment of the ‘swinging 60s’, one of the most interesting things about

he attended elocution lessons in London to help to soften his cockney accent. He believed that this would help him to build his brand and deliver the kind of customer service he saw was needed for his trade. The first step in what would soon be the first of a mighty empire was the opening of his first salon on Bond Street in London in 1954. Sassoon was slap bang in the middle of London cool when he moved his small Bond Street salon to Carnaby Street in 1958. He was the hairdresser that all the top models and actresses as well as the hipsters of the time wanted cutting their hair. When you think about the 1960s in Britain

starting with a branch in New York. He built his brand by personally training the staff who would work in each store. Trainee hairdressers would jump at the chance to see Sassoon work; he became a celebrity in hair which has

you think of the sexual revolution and the contraceptive pill, the early beginnings of punk, ﬂower power, mini-skirts,

led the way for so many hairdressers today. He went on to launch a hair care product line in 1974 and also appeared

political revolution, Twiggy and Mary Quant to list but a few people and movements and style. This was the time in which Sassoon was building his empire; Mary Quant’s famous hair was the work of Sassoon. Britain was going through many political changes and Sassoon “changed the world with a pair of scissors”

on television in the United States, such was his charismatic personality. The company at its peak turned over $133million a year but in 1983 he sold his empire which was later said to be his biggest regret. Vidal himself was the ultimate entrepreneur and cultural revolutionist. As a man he had a wonderful style: strong

What I love about what Sassoon did for the politics of hair was the revelation of ‘wash and wear’ styles. He said that; “if I was going to be a hairdresser, I wanted to change

bold glasses and a neck-a-chief. If you want to know more about Sassoon there is a wonderful documentary that includes interviews with his nearest and dearest as well

things. I wanted to eliminate the superﬂuous and get down to the basic angles of cut and shape.” Up until the 1960s

as with the man himself, Vidal Sassoon: The Movie (2010) (available to rent on iTunes).

Vidal Sassoon in a commercial sense was that he was the ﬁrst of his kind to establish a real global brand in hairdressing. He established the ﬁrst worldwide chain of salons in 1964

women were ragging, pin curling, wet setting and more.

www. urban-coco. com

Media Relations Marketing Event Management Photo Shoots Celebrity Endorsement M: 0787 283 1734 E: zeri@redrussianpr.com W: www.redrussianpr.com

Change your

look for less! 25% off DILEM frames

DILEM makes it possible to change your appearance to suit your mood with their patented system of frames with interchangeable temples. Present this advert to receive a 25% discount. Offer available until 31/07/2012. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other Simon Falk promotion.

www.simonfalk.co.uk 456 Roundhay Road | Oakwood | Leeds | LS8 2HU 0113 248 8222 | hello@simonfalk.co.uk

www. urban-coco. com

Urban Coco Advertorial

laire Paul is a British designer running a contemporary silver jewellery label. Drawing on inspiration from the natural to the quirky, her designs are for people seeking handmade, beautiful pieces that allow them to enjoy original creativity.

Silver Linked Tube Bracelet £75

Silver Basque Necklace £75

Silver Surfboard Fin Earrings £40

Claire hand crafts and hand ﬁnishes each item of jewellery, making her pieces unique and especial. Bespoke designs can also be made for you and Claire is happy to work with your own ideas and designs. Enhance your individual look with original jewellery. All Claire Paul Jewellery www.clairepauljewellery.co.uk info@clairepauljewellery.co.uk Tel. 07985433970

www. urban-coco. com

Be-Jewelled by Claire Paul

Silver Surfboard Pendant £45

“Envy me!: reloaded”- Red. Made to order. £225.00

“Z front” swimsuit. Currently on sale at £25.00. RRP £40.00

Belle du Jour, 2 piece monokini - Red/Gold ÂŁ35.00

“Arch back” swimsuit £40.00 - Black

Diamond Cut swimsuit ÂŁ60.00 - Khaki Green.

“Arch back” swimsuit £40.00 - Black Flip Flops from www.lindsey-phillips.com Jewellery from www.niconi.co.uk

So when we came across the PAIRFUM Collection, couture perfumes for the home, we were instantly in heaven. Each product within the PAIRFUM range is created by hand and uses only the highest quality natural or organic materials in all of their products (candles, diffusers, sprays, sachets, lotions, etc.). Their ethos of ‘luxury with a conscience’ allows us to enjoy indulgent moments without regrets. We even give them ‘brownie points’ because we love the fact that they use part of their proﬁts to buy beehives for farmers in Africa. No wonder they say that inside every PAIRFUM is a loving and giving heart with passion and pride poured in to every creation. Each product typiﬁes great British design, with elegantly clean and pure lines. PAIRFUM is created to bring out the dreamer in you. Conceived by a husband and wife duo with a background in couture perfumery, whose passion for perfume, beauty and all things natural is the reason Pairfum was born. www.pairfum.com

www. urban-coco. com

Pairfum Collection

here is nothing nicer than going home after a long day at the office to relax in your home filled with beautiful fragrances which creates a healthy, relaxing and welcoming environment.

Amanda Wakeley

manda Wakeley’s evening dresses have draped the shoulders of fashionistas worldwide including Angelina Jolie, Kate Middleton, Scarlett Johanssen and Dita von Teese while her effortlessly glamorous work wear is a staple in the wardrobe of any fashion conscious businesswoman. Amanda has been designing clothes since teaching herself to sew. The London based designer, responsible for arguably some of the most breathtaking wedding dresses in the world has started up a jewellery collection with Ernest Jones and was appointed an OBE by her Majesty two years ago. However the road to where she stands now, in two perfectly polished stiletto boots, has been bumpy. Since launching her signature label in 1990 Amanda has been the victim of a corporate takeover that took a turn for the worst. I use the term ‘victim’ loosely as the former student of Cheltenham Ladies College bounced back spectacularly in 2009, bought back the company, returned to London Fashion Week and was secured firmly again in the hearts and wardrobes of the women’s social elite. Amanda has stores abroad and throughout the UK in Harrods, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. I met the OBE and water ski-ing enthusiast (read on) at a meet and greet/fashion show for her store’s top spenders in Harvey Nichols, Leeds. The brand personified, she sauntered in, glossy blonde hair and beaming blue eyes, teaming her dark jeans with a fitted blazer and just oozing sophistication. Champagne was poured on arrival, petite cakes and finger sandwiches were presented on swirling cakestands, a Harvey Nichols goodie bag was tied with a bow and eloquently placed on the seat of each chair. Women sat at beautifully decorated tables in tailored suits and tunic dresses, lifting bubbly to their mouths with perfectly preened hands. This was most certainly an Amanda Wakeley interview. Her signature is soft, fluid dressing or sharp tailoring. She steers clear of dictatorial fashion, on the grounds that she is ‘dressing a woman, not a girl’. Italian silks skim, jersey wraps gather and if the dress will sit close to the tummy it’s in a breathable viscose or adds a classic belt. Any present trends seem to be purely intuition, I spotted 1920s Gatsby-esque dresses, deco beading and strong prints, one of which was inspired by ‘the beautiful effect the sunlight has when you look up at it through the trees’. And her customers don’t just love her clothes, they love her. Throughout the interview, ladies ‘pop over’ to say hello, goodbye, and to gush about how beautiful her S/S collection is. The adoration of her customers actually once extended to a boycott of the fashion label when Amanda announced that, ‘her services were no longer required’ at the Amanda Wakeley fashion label. We asked why she thinks she has such a loyal following. “I just love women to look as though they feel at ease in their clothes.” She explains. “That’s really important. I want my woman to feel great. And I do what I do because I really like women.” The feeling is more than mutual. Some of her fans include Scarlett Johansson, Elizabeth Hurley, Queen Rania of Jordan and the Duchess of Cambridge. We want to know, whose style does Amanda really admire at the moment? “Hmm...That’s a difficult one. Angelina Jolie, I think has such an easy grace with her dressing, she always looks really comfortable. Is she someone that you would think of as an ‘Amanda Wakeley’ woman? “Oh I think she’s fabulous.” And would she say that her clothes are empowering? “Empowerment is a word that I often use but have mixed feelings about, because people think ‘empowered clothing’ is sort of 80s shoulder pads and it’s not that at all. It’s about how something’s cut and about how it makes you feel.It’s how

www. urban-coco. com

the silk lining feels so gorgeous against your skin, that in itself is empowering, no one else knows about it but you or the fact that you know it’s got a lovely monogram embroidery inside. And the comfort factor and the flattery factor can be really empowering too. If you know your body looks a bit skinnier, sexier, taller wearing something you’re going to feel more confident. So maybe confident is a better word than empowered.” Before launching her own label Amanda worked for ‘Go Silk’ in New York. We asked if she drew much inspiration from New York women. “That was decades ago! Yes. Just in terms of that very, easy, understated but luxurious look. In America they have something called ‘sportswear’ which is not what we’d call sports wear in this country. It’s just an understated approach to daywear. American women tend to be quite groomed and they understand quite a glamorous look, so yes, that did influence me. Amanda mentioned the use of fine Italian silks in her fashion show earlier so the question was asked, whether she felt pressure to ‘Buy British’ in fashion with the influence of Mary Portas etc.. “I feel a great desire.And do so wherever we can. Sadly, we’ve really, really diminished our manufacturing

between shows, they’re working 18 hour days! There’s a lot of talk about it and yes, as in any body aesthetic industry, unfortunately you will ﬁnd some with eating issues, which is sad, because I want to dress real women. Amanda stops to talk to one of her customers to discuss how she should wear a particular fur item. Is it real fur..? She matter of factly tells me that it is. It is a ‘racoon, dyed.’ “I think as long as it’s ethically sourced then... I eat meat. I wear leather. That’s my view on it.” We switched the conversation to the reward for all her hard work, that OBE... “It was a real surprise!” She reﬂected. “I remember the accountant handing me a brown envelope before Christmas and I thought, ‘Oh God I wont open this before Christmas’, I just assumed it was some sort of tax demand type thing.

industry in this country.Really sadly and I ﬁnd it hugely disappointing but wherever I can I do. I’ve found a British tannery to do our bridle leather because we do

And I’m not great at opening bank statements at the best of times,” She laughed.

things like that really well, so we do all of our beautiful bridle leather belts here. We do our sheepskins here wherever we can. We do some of our wedding dresses in the UK-I would love to do more! It would make my life so much easier. Just to be able to pop in a car or on a train rather than on a long haul flight, definitely, I’d much rather support British. I’d love to see a resurgence of British manufacturing but it will take time for people to learn those skills again. A few years ago, The Sun plucked a model from Amanda Wakeley’s catwalk to use in a backlash against skinny models. I wanted to know what Amanda’s take was on concerns around the ‘size zero’ industry. It’s a catwalk aesthetic. And I would never use anyone that I would consider to be unhealthy. There have been times that I’ve rung an agent and said, so and so is too thin, we won’t use her. But I think when putting together a show, not in this sense (referring to the in store show at Harvey Nichols) but in a (London) Fashion Week show, you want a uniformity of girl really so that your eyes are actually on the clothes rather than on the woman. And what about other designers, are they sending home girls that are too skinny? I don’t know... I think sometimes it gets a bit blown out of proportion because you have to remember a lot of these models are sixteen. They haven’t finished growing. And trust me, you see them backstage and they are stuffing their faces, because they’re hungry! They’re

“But I opened it up and, really, you could’ve knocked me over with a feather, it was a huge honour.” What was it like meeting the Queen? “It was Prince Charles in fact, and it was really lovely. He was very chatty and warm. I wore one of my scuba dresses.” In our May issue we had a debate on the topic of high heels in the workplace and I thought who better to ask for her take on the subject than Amanda herself. ‘I think there’s something fantastically empowering about putting a heel on! I always feel more dressed and actually more empowered wearing a heel. But then at the same time if I’m in the studio I’ll put on biker boots. No, I think heels are fantastic for women, as long as they work for you. I don’t think you have to wear them but you hold yourself in a different way. Do you always wear heels at work? (she asks me) I answered yes and popped my 6in stilettos out from under the table and gave myself an inward high ﬁve,

Amanda Wakeley

www. urban-coco. com

admitting that I had an emergency pair of flats in my bag. Yes, I do too!” She laughed. Amanda is nice to be around. But she genuinely loves what she does, she’s happy to talk about the pitfalls of the fashion industry and even veer off topic into the re branding of feminism. When asked if Amanda considered herself a feminist she paused. “No I don’t.” She replied. “I enjoy my femininity. I don’t feel like I have to compete with men. Men and women have different things to offer without having to pretend to be a man. I agree that men and women should be equal but they should different.” Any budding designers reading, pay attention. What advice would Amanda Wakeley give to someone starting out? “Get as much experience as possible in many different roles. There are many very fulfilling jobs in fashion and not just in design. There’s the PR, there’s the buying, there’s the retail side- there’s a myriad of fantastic jobs in fashion.” Leaving the interview I was an even bigger fan of Amanda and will continue following her fashionable career. If you want to find out more about an average day in the life of Amanda check out www.urban-coco.com where we also have some quick fire questions which she answered during our interview. www.amandawakeley.com and also available at Harvey Nichols Leeds. By Georgina Ryall

F&F Tesco

£5

Bikini top £7 and Bikini briefs £5 by F&F

£14

Top £8 Jeans £14 Sunglasses £5 and Belt £3 by F&F

£8

www. urban-coco. com

ASOS Bold Tropical Cut Out Suit £35

ASOS ASOS Tie Dye Crop Bikini Top. £22

Sunset body £28

I’m melting vest £14 www. urban-coco. com

Debenhams

Roksanda Edition Frill Shell Top £35

Butterﬂy by Matthew Williamson Bandeau Suit £38

Star by Julien Macdonald dress £60 clutch £25

Jasper Conran, Straw stripe hat, £16 24

Roksanda Edition Shirt Dress £60 www. urban-coco. com

Hobbs

Hobbs Unlimited Horseshoe Broderie Dress, £179

Hobbs London Cowburn Shorts, £110

Caravaggio Shirt £139 Textured Trouser £139 Anouschka Court £179

Hobbs London Precious Trousers, £149 www. urban-coco. com

Hobbs Unlimited Spot Shift Dress £189 25

Cover Story

All dresses by Katie Newsam www.katienewsam.com Red shoes www.danielfootwear.com Daniel Red Morzilla Platform court shoe White boots www.danielfootwear.com Daniel White Cartina patent boot

t was a pleasure meeting this month’s cover girl, Etta Smith. The flame-haired songstress has been dubbed Britain’s answer to Alicia Key’s due to her soulful voice and singing ability. 26

Cover Story

Etta Smith Etta, born Harriet Wigley-Smith, arrived on set for the shoot to get straight in to hair and makeup. With the shoot taking place at Sunshine Bakery in Chapel Allerton and her outfits for the day being very fun and quirky by designer Katie Newsham, Etta made it clear she was excited for the fun shoot ahead. Etta has grown up listening to Northern Soul, Disco and Motown thanks to her parent’s love of these genres. She started singing from a young age and from just 8 she was playing the piano and then a few years later she began songwriting and has never looked back. I chatted with Etta to find out more about what excites her about music and what we can expect to see from her in 2012. How would you describe your music in 3 words? Soulful, captivating, piano-driven Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years? I’d like to have a successful career doing something that I love and that I’m passionate about. If I am able to make a living writing and performing my own songs, I will be so happy. If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why? I have always loved Paolo Nutini’s music. He’s a great songwriter and musician and I think it would be a great experience to collaborate with him. What inspires you? Personal experiences are what inspire most of my songs. However sometimes listening to other music can provoke ideas in my mind. If you weren’t pursuing a career in the music industry, what other career path would you have liked to follow? I have no idea! I have always wanted to have a career in music, whether it be as a performer, writer or producer. I guess if those career paths didn’t work out I would go into teaching. As a young female you’re clearly in to fashion, do you prefer highstreet or designer? Well as a student, I can only afford high street at the moment! I do like designer but I often find it to be very overpriced. Most of my clothes are from the highstreet and I’m really happy with what I have in my wardrobe! In 2012, what can we expect to see from you? Over the summer I am touring London, performing at some great venues and festivals and supporting Mike and the Mechanics at the end of July. I hope to release another EP, which will include some tracks I have been working on with some top producers. Follow Etta on her rise to stardom Twitter.com/ettasmithmusic

www. urban-coco. com

Urban Coco Advertorial

agServant.co.uk is a search engine devoted to handbags. We browse the best handbag brands and stores for you, serving up the best handbags that match your style, budget and now...your fashion personality. The easiest handbag shopping for your perfect bag based on who you are!

BagServant

shoes. BagServant.co.uk was actually born out of 2 passions – technology and love for handbags. Our goal was to create the premier handbag destination.

BagServant showcases handbags from the most popular designer brands, the high street and new emerging designers. We select the best handbag brands for you and let you search for your favourite bag by designer, price, occasion, shape, colour, size and personality. The unique “changing room” feature allows you to see any bag alongside an outfit and colours based on your wardrobe. And if you can’t find what you like or want, or even a bag that may be vintage or out of stock, BagServant offers a complementary Handbag Concierge Service to find it for you. BagServant also publish inspiring fashion editorial and interviews with well-known business women, fashion designers and stylists of the moment featured in on our Blog and e-magazine. You will also find ‘Street Style’ photos on the Facebook page along with competitions. We encourage ‘fashion’ chat with our followers on both Facebook and Twitter. We couldn’t wait to catch up with the brainchild behind BagServant, Lenka Gourdie to find out more about the brand and her inspirations. Tell us why you decided to start BagServant? I always loved fashion, especially handbags and shoes. However, my real passion for handbags was born when my husband bribed me with the promise of a new designer handbag so that I would take a helicopter trip on our honeymoon in Hawaii. Since then I started buying designer bags and noticed all the lovely selections in the market. I treat my bags like my best friend and carefully choose them for every special occasion. At the end of the day, a woman’s status comes from her handbag and

Are there any new exciting designer handbags coming to BagServant this year? We are always on the lookout for new, up and coming designers as well as brands which may not be that well known, especially in the UK market. We have recently launched Aubrey England and TellUs Fashion. We are currently in discussions with Brit designers Hayley Miller and Jane Goodchild. We believe that it is very important to have a wide range of bags to serve everyone’s style and personal preferences. What is your lust-have handbag, and what is your handbag personality? My lust-have bag is the iconic Hermes Birkin. I would love to own the entire collection, not just one. And I love them in all the colours. My personality is Classique Conﬁdent with Big bag lover edge. What are your plans for BagServant in 2012? We would like to work more closely with emerging designers, new brands and brands directly. We are trying to develop a tool which connects brands directly to our website. We are also launching a ShoeServant Blog, featuring the most lust-have, on-trend shoes in the market. We are also planning to launch “Handbag Treasure Hunt” for people to have some fun when they are searching for their perfect handbag.

www. urban-coco. com

icole Farhi was in Leeds this month with a little fashion event to showcase her S/S collection. I was invited to chat to her beforehand and have 5 minutes with this legendary fashion designer. Although she is over the age of 60 (would be rude to pinpoint exactly how many years over), Nicole oozes sophistication, class and style. Neatly sitting within the personal shopping department, Nicole immediately made me feel at ease with her friendly demeanour, I instantly felt as if we had known each other for some time. I opened by asking what her career highlight had been to date, I personally could name several for her but was intrigued to see what stood out to her. She answered instantly with ‘My highlight has to be that I am still alive, still breathing and loving every minute of my life. I have been charmed throughout my entire career and every day has been a pleasure. I am just so grateful to still be here to tell the tale.’ Clearly a woman not afraid to speak from the heart. I went on to ask what it was like starting out in the industry and what advice she would give to any aspiring fashion designers. ‘When I started out as a designer it was so hard, there were no jobs around in the industry and if you weren’t known then it was hard for anybody to trust or believe in your ideas. I decided that I would do anything to get

Nicole Farhi recognised and said yes to every single opportunity that came my way. Even if it meant making coffee for other designers it was still a foot in the door and the perfect opportunity to learn from them.’ I agreed with her as I am a true believer that you have to be the ‘YES’ girl that doesn’t turn down any opportunities, big or small, as you never know where they will lead. I personally have spent years networking and a couple of years ago would have happily showed up to the opening of an envelope just for the chance to potentially meet someone new within the industry. Nicole agreed that this is the way to get ahead especially in competitive industries. We moved on to discuss the catwalk show which we were about to see which was to showcase Nicole’s S/S 2012 collection. She told me that the whole collection was inspired by a stunning garden in Delhi where the flowers were full and vibrant and this is reflected in her fabric choices throughout the designs. The Olympics were also a huge inspiration for the collection where sporty shapes are interpreted in unexpected ways, with knitted shorts and fine vests layered under sequinned tops and dresses. Time ran out but we could have happily chatted for hours, her French accent and fun personality were infectious and it was a real pleasure to meet her. The Nicole Farhi sunglasses which she gave me were a nice end to our brief but fun meeting and I look forward to seeing what she produces next season. We went on to watch the show where my favourite piece from the collection had to be the printed dress which was a blown up photograph taken by Nicole of oversized blooms which are then printed on to crisp cotton. The accessories throughout were really fun and bright making them perfect to add a bit of colour to your outfit making it instantly on trend. You can follow Nicole and her new collections at www.nicolefarhi.com By Laura Bartlett

www. urban-coco. com

summer chiffon, the majority of magazines advertise bare middrifs and hot pants (are there really people who wear both at the same time?). When you’re not particularly overweight do you really want to end up having to go to Evans for something with sleeves? The pursuit of the ‘beach body’ is also surely a signifier that you are going on your holidays. This summer as a catwalk culture feeds into an assumption that we are all going abroad and we all are even able to take time off work. I’ve not been able to afford a holiday for two years and lots of my acquaintances haven’t for even longer. If I indulge in a magazine over the summer months I often have to flip through the majority of it. The last thing on my mind during the few glimpses of sunshine should be whether or not a man finds me

Beach Goddess I

I’m not sure if it’s because of the continually bad attractive but this if often how such t’s that time of year weather that we all suffer through for the majority of the articles are framed. I know that again. The sun is year that we stop considering ‘baring our flesh’. I think being fitter is probably better then that if I lived in perpetual sunshine where I was inclined sweat nestling between your shining, it’s heating up to take my clothes off and was naturally drawn to salad feeling fat rolls. For anyone fighting fat and that I would probably be more proactive in the pursuit frizz, yes I am that lucky, means that and us Brits are getting of a ‘beach body’. Actually scrap that, just access to a the sun starts shining it’s the bombarded with articles beach would probably be an incentive. I don’t really see when effort of having to change our style myself prancing along the shores of Scarborough in a for one short season. Nothing you on becoming “Beach two piece. own will keep you cooler than the Ready”. What I love about I must say that the ‘pursuit for perfection’ that kicks centre of the sun, your hair triples time of year is a familiar annual occurrence. There in size with no accessory known to these articles is that they inis athisseasonal beauty industry at work here. Winter it’s all man with the ability to contain it. body buffing and going to bed with your feet slathered in Summer fashion is for summer wait for the sun to be moisturiser with your socks on and coating your face in babies. Some women look great in shining. They start everyone various balms. Summer it’s a hard core tanning, waxing, a floaty skirt, beach waves, wooden spray salt in your hair madness. bangles and a denim waistcoat. talking about getting If we listened to our bodies and followed our own There are girls with smooth even fitter, eating more salad understanding of what our skin needs we’d be generally coloured skin who look good in healthier all year round. And surely less focused on it? I that. And then there is me, and or going out for runs know I am guilty of the exact opposite of feeling healthy many like me: the winter baby. I when really, shouldn’t all year round but I certainly don’t feel the same bouts spend the summer months sweating of low self-esteem that I do in the summer when I’m and fighting frizz, waiting for the we have been thinking wrapped up in tweed and woollen tights and digging snow and dreaming of corduroy and tweed. about this in December? into a plate of mashed potato in the winter months. Women already feel under pressure to look good. By Dale Ellis Or more to the point; Most of the time, even if I contemplate indulging in some shouldn’t we always be I think that if I lived in perpetual sunshine where thinking about this? I was inclined to take my clothes off and was natu-

“

rally drawn to salad that I would probably be more proactive in the pursuit of a ‘beach body’.

www. urban-coco. com

VS Beach Beast? B

y the second day of this beautiful sunshine (the first day consisted mostly of sheer disbelief) I ran into the tanning shop for my six minutes, concentrated far too much time on getting my legs looking human again and even ventured the bikini top.

www. urban-coco. com

I thoroughly did my homework on swimwear trends, hats, festival fashion and what I can’t now tell you about vintage sundresses isn’t worth knowing. Because summer in Britain is a catwalk. And why shouldn’t it be? We are home to the fashion capital of the world and due to having cloud, wind and rain simultaneously for 90% of the year, sunshine has a particularly liberating effect on us Brits. Firstly I would like to point out, that I am in no way implying that the sun is a temporary license to strip naked or dress inappropriately (unless you’re at the relevant beaches) and it shouldn’t sanction harming your skin in a desperate bid for a suntan. Some of the most glamorous women in the world will step into the sunlight covered up from head to toe in loose white linens and giant hats topped off with eau de factor 50. For example, a huge inspiration for Chanel this year has been the way Indian ladies drape their elegant silk saris. And you don’t have to be stick thin or have legs up to your armpits to look your best in summer. There is a swimwear to ﬁt every size and shape, with curvy girls being able to step easily into the most high fashion pieces as 1930s swimwear makes a roaring reappearance. So I’m afraid I am partial to a bit of sunshine snobbery at this time of year, because we can do so much more with our appearances when it’s warm and I think that we should.

I despairingly try to understand the red backed women sitting in beer gardens with their tracksuit bottoms rolled up or those few who STILL wear flip flops with socks. It’s lazy. Is a nice dress or a pop of bright lippy too much to ask?! There is always the argument that we don’t need make up and dresses to make us feel good. But I put it you, why in summer, when our serotonin levels are boosted and we’re full to the brim with cheeriness anyway, do we bother to make that extra effort? Not to sound too much like a Muller Corner advert but when we’re happy, I think we want to show it on the outside. The aphrodisiac qualities of the British summer are as much aesthetic as they are chemical, the colours, the tans and the flesh, everywhere. Yes, diet to squeeze into that swimsuit and look after your feet. It’s not like you have to do it all year! By Georgina Ryall

Opus £200 www.amouage.com It is inspired by the power of erasing, destroying and re-inventing memories of broken love

Paradise Eau de Parfum,the seductive,captivating new fragrance from Oriflame. With the essence of paradise in every drop, the glamorous yet bohemian scent is perfect for the modern trendsetting ‘femme fatale’ who appreciates the finer things in life. £29.95 www.oriflame.co.uk

Top 5 Summer Scents

Clinique Happy £35 for 50ml A fragrance that captures the spirit of happiness in all its incarnations, moods and ages. www.clinique.co.uk

DKNY from £34.50. As every girl needs her very own sparkle and shimmer for summer, this sizzling scent will be available only at The Perfume Shop from 15th June 2012. www.theperfumeshop.com Amor Amor £24.99 Embrace the fragrance of forbidden love, for the young, audacious and mysterious lover in you, be sure to celebrate Cacharel’s latest launch; Amor Amor Forbidden Kiss www.theperfumeshop.com

www. urban-coco. com

Dating disasters

t U.C we love to have a laugh with our girls, conversations usually end up being all about men. So we talked to some fearless females that we know to find out their dating disasters, as expected, they ALL want to remain anonymous!

I tried online dating recently because I just didn’t have time to go out and meet a guy. I had been chatting to this one particular guy for some time and we had a clear chemistry and he was really attractive. Then after a few weeks I though what the hell, I’m going to meet up with him. We arrange to go to La Tasca and when I arrived I looked around and couldn’t see him and then I heard someone shout my name. When I turned around it was blatantly a different guy from his picture, this guy was much fatter and uglier. I didnt want to offend him too much so once we ordered drinks I said I needed to go to the toilet where I asked a random girl to call my phone in two minutes. When I was back at the table she rang me and I made up a massive, fake, emergency so that I could leave. Awkward

was on a double date recently with my friend and two guys which we had been dating for a few months. It was the ﬁrst time the four of us had been together but since my friend and I were good friends it made sense to try and double date. Things were going really well until my friends guy suggested that we ‘swap’ for the night and change partners. Needless to say that was the end of that relationship and my friend and I left, very offended.

‘I

went speed dating with my friend, more of a ‘thing to do before I die’ than a new level of desperation. Anyway it turned out it wasn’t as bad as I thought and I actually got a date out of it. I met him a few days later and we had a great night, went for a meal and a few drinks and had a cheeky kiss at the end of the night. It went so well that we ended up seeing each other a few more times that week. I was then asked to go to another speed dating night, more to get the numbers up than anything. When I turned up and was sitting with my girls laughing at the sorry states on offer I nearly died when I turned around to see my date from the previous night. As you can imagine, a very awkward conversation followed especially when he had to sit through three minutes with four of my friends.

www. urban-coco. com

was on a date with a guy who I knew through a friend of a friend, and had also met his ex girlfriend once.The date was going ok (I wasn’t really interested in him and wasn’t going to see him again, but we were half way through drinks so I didn’t want to be rude), making polite chit chat the subject of ex’s came up. I asked how long he had been single for, and he looked away, then when he looked back he had tears in his eyes..... Obviously still in love with his ex I made my excuses and left! He text me apologising, but I thought it was best to leave it!

Think you’ve had a more disastrous date? Then we want to know! Email laura@urban-coco. com and tell us all about it!

Interiors

Here comes the sun...

ring some summer style to your garden with some amazing accessories that will certainly righten up your british summer.

Stacey wilkinson, stylist and owner of www.greedylittlegirls.com shows us some key pieces we know you’ll LOVE! 1. French connection clock - £120 - www.frenchconnection.com 2. Bird Cage cake Stand - £29.95 - www.notonthehighstreet.com 3. Sky planter - £32.50 - www.theo-theo.com 4. Pink Elephant Light - £129 - www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 5. Moroccan Style Cushion - £14 - www.matalan.co.uk 6. Rabbit Print Cool Bag - £38.00 www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 7. Bird Cage chandelier - £395.00 - www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 8. Metal peacock - £125.00 - www.marksandspencer.com

7 5

8 6

1 www. greedylittlegirls. com

www. urban-coco. com

A week in the life of

Photo credit – Phil Witcomb photographer

orking on the radio I am very much heard and not seen so it really doesn’t matter how I’m dressed. Occasionally a picture or a bit of filming from the studio during the show may get tweeted but that doesn’t warrant me getting all dressed up for work. To be honest I tend to wear baggy comfortable clothes, anything reminiscent of my bed and there’s certainly no make up involved. But when I’m invited to an event I like to dress up. I don’t think I’m particularly fashionable but I reckon I do have my own style. I’m a busy working Mum. I require clothes that create maximum impact with minimum effort.

Next Top Model - Leeds This picture was taken just before Simon Hirst and I hosted a charity night to ﬁnd the ‘Next Top Model – Leeds’ at The Warehouse. You can’t beat a simple black number when hosting an event like this. I borrowed this dress from Fashion Pony - its Klue by Kelly-Ann another Yorkshire based designer. I really rate her stuff as it’s all really funky and wearable. Again, I think it was the big hair that made this outﬁt and of course having Simon on my arm!

Hull Fashion Week I got to wear this lovely striped halter neck number by Leanne Jennison of Gracious Plum based in Hull for the finale of Hull Fashion Week. It was held in a massive 800 year old church and it was good to wear something made by a local designer who graduated from the Hull School of Art and Design back in 2008. It was a bit nippy so I ﬂung on a staple garment from my wardrobe, a soft leather jacket from Whistles which goes with everything.

A week in the life of... 36

www. urban-coco. com

A radio presenter

Centerstage “”A reliable black backless number was required yet again for this event at The Wardrobe - it was the final heat for ‘Centre Stage’ which is a competition to find new musical talent while simultaneously raising money for Martin House children’s hospice. Again I was hosting so wanted to look cool in front of all these budding musicians and not draw too much attention to myself. The final will be held at the O2 Academy and the winners get to play at both Leeds and Reading festival this summer. Again the dress is from Birdshell and the head scarf was a charity shop buy.

(Photo - Hirsty, Cheryl, Danny and Me – as if the boys were going to let me stand next to her) We get quite a few celebs dropping into the station so I’m learning to take my make up bag to work with me just in case. Let’s face it if you end up having your picture taken with Cheryl Cole you don’t want to look like a total pleb. Comfy slacks are from Jigsaw, jumper M&S and my headscarf is yet another charity shop buy. Really wish I’d put on some eye make up on though, as it’s well applied eye make up that can instantly make a woman more attractive.

“”I hosted the Jane Tomlinson Leeds Half Marathon - not an easy event to dress for as I was on stage from 8am on a Sunday morning in Millennium Square. I decided to have some fun with it and wore a unitard (which incidentally helped keep me warm!) accessorised with a hint of neon courtesy of Leeds market! Checkout the orange perspex shoes! They have been in the JoJo dressing up box for years. I did a full aerobic workout in those babies!

Jane Tomlinson Leeds Half Maratom

... a radio presenter www. urban-coco. com

Lawri Virk, Age: 16 Jacket/top - topshop Skirt - Ark Shoes - Urban Outﬁtters Bag - Mulberry

Jivan Virk, Age: 18 Scarf - Alexander McQueen Jacket - Topshop Bag - Mulberry Top - Dorothy Perkins Shoes - Bertie Shorts - Urban Outﬁtters

Jessica Walshaw, Age: 16 Top - Topshop Jeans - Primark Shoes - Converse Bag - River Island

Charlie Woodcock, Age: 19 Coat/top - Abercrombie Leggings - Miss Selfridge Shoes - All Saints Bag - Topshop

Fay Ingram. Age: 19 Jacket - American apparel Top - Gig shut Belt - primark Leggings - eBay shop Pumps - Primark Bag - vintage

Holly Braze, Age: 2, Jacket/leggings/bag - River Island Bangle/dress - Topshop, Belt - Primark, Shoes - Vivienne Westwood

Chic

Street

Street Chic

www. urban-coco. com

Lydia catterall, Age: 22 Scarf - Vintage Jumper - H&M Top - Urban Outﬁtters Shoes - Florence & Fred Bag - Accesorize

Rachel Kay, Age: 23 Jacket - Topshop Top - H&M Leggings - New Look Sunglasses - Accesorize Bag - Oasis Shoes - Converse

Melissa Kaye Age: 21 Jacket - H&M Top/jeans - New Look Earrings/shoes - Vivienne Westwood Bag - Zara Sunglasses - Accesorize

Jenny Briant, Age: 20 Cardigan - Topshop Top/trousers - jigsaw Shoes - Primark Necklace - Accesorize Bag - River Island

Francesca Roper, Age: 18 Jack Wills - Jumper Top - Topshop Jeans - River Island Jumper - Jack Wills Shoes - WW Headband - River Island Glasses - Gorwan

Rebecca Wilson, Age: 23 Jacket/top/jeans - Topshop Shoes - Ofﬁce Bag - asos Sunglasses - ray ban

Jescka Stelfox, Age: 19 Jacket - River Island Necklace - Accesorize Watch - Guess

Kimberley lawton Age: 18 Scarf - All Saints Jacket - Vivienne Westwood Shoes - moo designs