Editor's letter

After a long, depressing winter, I have decided to up my health game and quit drinking. I'm taking it week by week and not putting too much pressure on myself, but it's a start. I spoke to Michelle O'Connell (owner of Amelie Gifts) about my decision, and I learnt that she has just passed the one-year sobriety mark. Her story is similar to mine in that there was no real bottom point, just a decision she had made for herself. After many conversations, I am happy to share that Michelle will be writing a regular feature about her sobriety and wellness in general. Her first article can be found on page 59, where she shares the start of her sober adventure. Continuing with a sober lifestyle, Christian Gott has shared his favourite NoLo recipes (No or Low alcohol for those unaware), a non-alcoholic, frozen margarita and a sweet rhubarb and vanilla cordial perfect for pairing with sparkling water (page 58).

Also, in the wellness section, Donna Crous opens up about secondary breast cancer. Initially diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2019, Donna had a bilateral lumpectomy and four lymph nodes removed, followed by twenty radiotherapy sessions over six weeks. She was ready to ring the bell and leave cancer-free. Things took a turn, though, and in August 2021, it was confirmed that Donna had secondary breast cancer – this occurs when breast cancer cells break away and travel via either the lymphatic system or the bloodstream and settle elsewhere. The cancer was diagnosed as stage IV. You can read her full story on page 55.

For the cover, I met with Chloé Baker to learn more about her journey that led her to launch Barre B (a dance-based fitness class). I found out that she was a showgirl for Moulin Rouge's 'Paradis Latin', she toured France with Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione and moved across the world to Sydney for love. She is super passionate, for sure. Read the full interview from page 42.

You can enjoy two editorials this month, both shot by Mark Stephenson. The first, 'All Denim', was modelled by Filipa Dias, who looked beautiful in the latest denim offerings. Tina Davies modelled the latest sports fashion for our second editorial, 'Getting Physical' - this was shot at Strive, a 32,000 sqft premier health club.

The fashion section is filled with the latest trends, including stripes, jewel tones and loafers. We pay homage to the year 2000 with a 3-page spread on Y2K fashion, from wide-leg jeans and crops to strappy sandals and velour tracksuits. Exploring digital fashion, Amber Blake takes a closer look at NFTs (page 24).

Throughout the magazine, you'll also find beauty product reviews, kitchen trends, the latest home tech, and much more.

Sophie Wilkinson @sophlwilko

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