Editor's letter

Index

In this issue we step away from fashion trends and focus more on individual style. Whether you’re super casual, a little bit punk or ere on the side of caution with a more refined look, we’re sure you’ll find plenty of pieces you’ll love throughout.

Jersey has some amazing independent boutiques, but I hear all too frequently that people are afraid or intimidated to enter at the thought of being judged or feeling out of place. We can’t stress enough that there is nothing to be afraid of! In the majority of independently owned boutiques, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome. You’ll also be surprised at how well priced and unique the pieces are. We have featured a few of the owners so you can read all about ‘the face behind the shop’ from page 36.

We have put together two editorials, both photographed by Mark Stephenson. Our first sees Toni Neil wrapped up warm in this season’s offerings of outerwear. The second is focused on decadence – shot at Bohemia. Beth looks simply stunning whilst diamond jewellery from Stott and Willgrass dazzles.

Our cover feature is on Lauren Trachy. Lauren launched her business, The Custom Ones, over lockdown designing and customising sneakers, all whilst running a second business and attending college. You can read all about her on page 34.

When it comes to Christmas shopping, you either love it or you hate it. Harriet Rouse looks at ways to shop well this Christmas, including buying local (P56). Our Christmas gift guide is jam-packed with ideas for the whole family from children to grandparents, from the ecoconscious to the house proud (P60).

In our lifestyle section Liana Shaw talks about greenwashing – a phenomenon a lot of companies have adopted to make us feel like they’re a little greener than they actually are (P73). Dani Ledo shares her tips on reusing candle jars (P79), Ria Wolstenholme discuses toxic positivity and why it’s OK to not be OK (P86) and Christian Gott and Chloe Bowler share their festive recipes. Students and staff at Highlands College share their lockdown experiences through art and short stories in our ‘Lockdown Reflections’ feature from page 94.

Whatever happens in the next couple of months, I hope you manage to enjoy the festive period as much as possible.