Style Birmingham Issue 49

BIRMINGHAM

LIVE THE CITY / FREE

4 4 T H P R E S I D E N T O F T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN TO HOLD THE OFFICE T I R E L E S S C H A M P I O N O F H E A LT H C A R E NICE DAD JEANS

THE M E N S W E A R D ES T IN AT ION M A I L B O X, B I R M I N G H A M

Great men deserve great style

THE M E N S W E A R D ES T IN AT ION M A I L B O X, B I R M I N G H A M

Great men deserve great style

NOW OPEN AT THE MAILBOX find out more, turn to page 94

Solihull

Stratford

Mailbox

Welcome Home Birmingham From the heart of the city to the heart of your home. Visit our beautiful new, ground breaking flagship showroom and discover a world of bespoke, contemporary kitchens.

Open now at the Mailbox, Birmingham

Premium Partners:

WWW.THOMASSABO.COM

House of Fraser Corporation Street | B2 5JS Birmingham

Selfridges Bullring Upper Mall | East Bullring | B5 4BP Birmingham

Bullring Shopping Centre Level 3 | Unit SU 324 | B5 4BA Birmingham

Style / Editor’s Letter

Editor’s Letter W

elcome to summer! Every issue we strive to improve on the past, and look toward the future and never has that statement been more appropriate than for issue 49. Keen to showcase the best of what Birmingham has to offer we have some great features including an interview with the winners from this year’s BYPY awards along with a look at where to indulge this summer. Laura Smith guides us into the colliding worlds of tennis and fashion - with the upcoming Aegon Classic coming to the city this June, we asked Birmingham-born fashion illustrator Marc McGreevy to share his interpretation of the world tennis class stars playing at the tournament, along with a little help from Harvey Nichols.

As well as fantastic regional content we’ve bagged some big names, our leading lady this issue is Corinne Bailey Rae (page 26). Back from a six-year hiatus the leeds-born singer-songwriter talks about her inspiring new album and new zest for life. Leona Lewis shares her beauty secrets (page 47), and X Factor 2014 finalist Fleur East gives us the inside scoop on what we can expect from her headline spot at MTV Crashes Coventry (page 62).

On our travels this issue we stopped off in Doha to discover everything this vibrant city has to offer, and Ed James tests out six of the best experiences in Prague.

We’re also very excited to announce the launch of our all new ‘man’ magazine, we thought it was about time the men had something to get excited about too! Each issue we’ll be serving up-to-the-minute style advice, tech for the modern man and even some health tips to help you get the beach body of your dreams.

If you guys want to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings around town, you can also sign up to The Manual, our brand new e-magazine, find out more on page 82.

26 GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF ISSUE 49 ONLINE AT STYLEBHAM.COM

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We hope you love this issue as much as we do, tell us what you think by tweeting us @stylebham

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Until autumn, enjoy the sun!

SUMMER ESSENTIALS Editor’s Picks 1. Pairs In Paris trainers, £195 threadnotbare.com 2. Zara for him aftershave, £19 3. Archive by Alexa bikini £18, Marks & Spencer 4. Benefit hoola bronzer, £19.50, House Of Fraser 5. Macbook overlay, £90 Harvey Nichols

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Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 7

Style / Contents

BIRMINGHAM

Unit 606B, The Big Peg, 120 Vyse Street, B18 6NF 0121 769 2808 • contact@stylebham.com

Editor-In-Chief Andrew Riley andrew@stylebham.com

Editor Elle Sixsmith

Creative Director Mike Raven mike@stylebham.com

Designer Simon Konaszczuk

Designer Paige Goddard

Special thanks to

Becky Weaver, Ally Head, Laura Smith, Josie Johnson, Tara Tomes, Sarah Unes, Bethany Lee, Rose Gallagher, Diana Stoencheva, Sarah Hunston, Bookings Models, PJ Ellis, Alfie at Bad Apple Hair, Pamela Cooney and Jordan Lloyd at TONI & GUY, James Tissman, Max Harvey, Nicolle Rimmer, Jade Woodhouse, Gigi Hanick, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Marc McGreevy, Lawn Tennis Association, Harvey Nichols Birmingham & all the BYPY winners.

Style Birmingham is created by RileyRaven • rileyraven.co.uk • hello@rileyraven.co.uk

The Edit

010 Style Chart The hottest products you need right now 011 Summer Packing Fashion proof your holiday wardrobe 015 Holiday Style Vogue Williams on how she does stylish Spanish summers 017 Fashion News The latest collaborations and collections 018 Summer Wardrobe Refresh your look with cool denim and chic sandals 021 Prairie Romance Create the modern prairie girl look at the Bullring 023 The Perfect Fit Introducing Solihull’s newest independent lingerie boutique 024 Wedding Guest Dressing From classic elegance to rustic country styles stand out with Grand Central 026 Corinne Bailey Rae We talk an inspiring new album and her fresh new optimism 029 In Bloom Low-key and effortlessly cool. March into summer in a soft take on utility with NEXT 041 The Perfect Match We celebrate the Aegon Classic with illustrator Mark Mcgreevy

Beauty

047 Beauty Talk Leona Lewis talks everything from red carpet prep to fake eyelashes 048 Bridal Hairstyles Royston Blythe shares pictureperfect wedding hair secrets 049 Festival Braids Coachella inspired boho braids with minimal effort 054 Beauty Bulletin This summer’s top-to-toe beauty game changers 055 When Bad Makeup Happens to Good People Rose Gallager on solving beauty’s biggest dilemmas

The Insider

058 Festival Guide Our round up of the hottest festivals for 2016 062 A Force of Nature X Factor’s Fleur East crashes Coventry with MTV 063 Beach Reads Essential books to squeeze into your suitcase 064 Blockbuster Summer The big-budget films you mustn’t miss 065 Out & About Where to be, what to see and what to do in Birmingham

067 From off-duty jackets and the latest tech to how to deal with those summer sweats - our new Man magazine has all the style advice you need!

ON THE COVER TO SEE OUR SUMMER FASHION SHOOT, TURN TO PAGE 29

Life

083 BYPY Meet the winners from this year’s competition 086 Travel Qatar Summer Escapes 090 24 Hours in Prague Ed James shares his top travel tips 091 Summer Indulgence Here’s where you should be dining 094 The Heart of the Home Elegant kitchen trends from Kitchen Gallery at the Mailbox 097 The Green House Chic botanics come inside this summer 99 Summer Loving Resorts World’s new exciting programme 100 Al Fresco Dining Eateries to make the most of the sun 102 Recipe Sicilian Stuffed Tuna with tomato sauce 104 Tennis-serving up The perfect workout for summer 105 Health Get fit with these fun new classes in Birmingham 106 WIN A luxury Girls Day Out with Harvey Nichols

Photography: Mike Raven, Styling: Elle Sixsmith and Paige Goddard Hair: Alfie at Bad Apple Hair, Make-up: Diana Stoencheva Model: Katrina at Bookings Models Bikini top, £12 Sheer stripe bomber jacket, £50 Textured culottes, £32 Sporty sandals, £32 Silver hoop earrings, £10 All available from NEXT

A DIGITAL EVOLUTION! Download our Summer issue for iPad to access extended content & your chance to win!

AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD JUNE 2016

All information is correct at the time of going to press. Please note that prices for items are subject to change so may vary from those mentioned, contact individual stores for definitive pricing information.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, without prior permission. We make every effort to ensure that firms and organisations mentioned are reputable, however, we can give no guarantee that they will fulfil their obligations in all circumstances. Contributors’ opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or of Style Birmingham Ltd. Any material submitted is done so at the owner’s risk, and the company can take no responsibility for the safe storage or return of such material.

8 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

DISCOVER THE SUMMER COLLECTION

PANDORA Bullring 0121 633 3093

PANDORA High St. Birmingham 0121 631 1911

PANDORA Grand Central 0121 643 9608

PANDORA Merry Hill 01384 79111

Women / The Edit

The Style Chart

From top trips to seductive scents — here’s what we’ll be lusting after this summer

EDITOR’S PICK

HIGH IMPACT

Gear up for summer with this cute F&F sports bra. We’ll be wearing it to the Colour Run. £12, Tesco

MOTHER OF PEARL

We love pearl details and this Swarovski rose gold bracelet is top of our wish-list. £79, T.H. Baker

WEEKEND GETAWAY

Need travel inspo? Find 125 itineraries and recommendations for quick but memorable trips. £24.99, John Lewis

10 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

WHO DUNNIT?

Time of Death by Mark Billingham will keep you hooked and guessing until the final page. £5.99,Waterstones

POISON GIRL

Dior’s fragrance Poison Girl blends bittersweet florals with zesty orange. £45, Debenhams, The Fort Shopping Park

SCRUB UP WELL

This Laura Mercier fig scrub is heaven in a jar and essential for your pre-tan routine. £37, Harvey Nichols

EASILY SUEDE

A modern twist on a classic staple, make this suede number your go-to summer bag. £79.99, H&M

ROCK ON

Ahead of their summer tour, catch Catfish and The Bottlemen’s latest album ‘The Ride’. £9.99, HMV

STUD MUFFIN

Swap your nude courts for these stand-out flats with just a hint of attitude. £39.99, Zara

ENGLISH ROSE

For glowing skin that smells of sweet roses, use this glowing body essence. £15, The Body Shop

DELICATE FLOWER

We love Oasis new dress collection inspired by the beautiful ceramics of the V&A. £58, Oasis

STYLISH DESIGN

If you’re as obsessed with Tom Dixon as we are, then this new notebook is a must-have. £14, tomdixon.net

Women / The Edit Inject some bohemian glamour into your style with these vibrant sandals decorated with pom poms, embroidery and tassels.

The more handicraft the better.

H&M top, £12.99, The Fort Shopping Park

Chloé

ARTISAN SANDALS

Sam Edelman sandals, £120, Net-A-Porter.com

Topshop fringe top, £40 New Look pom pom sandals, £22.99, The Fort Shopping Park

Zara lace-up sandals, £49.99 New Look fringe sandals, £27.99, The Fort Shopping Park

John Lewis pom pom bag, £28

BEACH BAGS Big enough to store all your beach essentials and chic enough to double up as a day bag, this summer’s straw beach bags will instantly give you that holiday vibe.

Michael Kors tote, £285, Harvey Nichols Zara fringe tote, £29.99

Harve y Nich ols

Fashion-proof your holiday wardrobe with look-at-me swimwear and ultra-chic cover-ups.

Here’s exactly what you need to pack

Finde rs Kee pers s tripe to p, £90 ,

Summer Holiday

THE COLD SHOULDER Officially the style of S/S16, bare your shoulders in a dramatic blouse with frayed denim shorts and espadrilles at the beach. It’s guaranteed to become your holiday staple.

Chloé

We’re All Going On A

EDITOR’S PICK

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 11

Women / The Edit

CHIC COVER-UPS Balenciaga

Forget big baggy shirts, this summer we’ll be investing in cover-ups with stylish details.

Think off-the-shoulder, bold prints and cut-out styles.

Topshop cover up, £30

Chloé

Whistles stripe dress, £110

Chloé

H&M off-the-shoulder dress, £29.99, The Fort Shopping Park

Mango crochet dress, £35.99

Isabel Marant sandals, £340, Harvey Nichols

Make like you’re on safari with rich rusts, khaki and burnt orange. Mix and match exotic prints and colours and team with a red lip for added polish.

Marks & Spencer Autograph dress, £55

H&M fringe earrings, £6.99

River Island swimsuit, £35 RI Plus faux suede sk irt, £35 Island River

River Island Thomas Sabo earrings, £1,350, T.H. Baker

Thomas Sabo rose gold pendant, £215, T.H. Baker

SPICE TRAIL

French Connection maxi dress, £120

Whsitles utility trousers, £150

NEW LINE! Reiss suede tote, £225

Dorothy Perkins dress, £30, The Fort Shopping Park

12 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

NEXT print espadrilles, £45

Introducing RI Plus, River Island’s first fashion line exclusively for sizes 18 to 24.

Look out for core basics like culottes with bow decoration and this ultra-flattering suedette skirt.

COS vest, £59

Statement Shades

If there’s one thing we learnt from the S/S16 shows it was go big or go home! Oversized and retro are this summer’s favourite shapes — quirky shapes, colour frames and print is key.

Women / The Edit

Whistles crochet dress, £150

MIU MIU retro sunglasses, £207, Sunglass Hut

Prada oversized sunglasses, £260, John Lewis Topshop tortoiseshell sunglasses, £16, The Fort Shopping Park

River Island bottoms, £16, bikini top, £16, The Fort Shopping Park

Gucci

SLEEK MONOCHROME Warehouse colour block skirt, £49

Whistles cateye sunglasses, £75

French Connection halter bikini top, £24

Will there ever be a time when our favourite colour combo is not chic?

We think not. Forget the old notion of not wearing black in summer and opt for head-to-toe monochrome in lightweight fabrics.

OFFICE tie up sandals, £40

Reiss trilby, £90

MAKE WAVES

EDITOR’S PICK

Dive into summer’s new swimwear. From sleek classics to look-at-me-now statement pieces, here’s the best of the best …

Accessorize bikini set, £31 French Connection bikini bottoms, £22

Topshop zig-zag bandeau, £18

Topshop zig-zag bottoms, £14

Ann Summers zip swimsuit, £20

La Redoute

d swimsuit, £210, Harv ey Nic s ibbe hol in r e l K i d i e H

Rochelle Humes scallop bikini, £35, Very

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 13

Women / The Edit

14 | Style Birmingham | Summer2016

My Holiday

Marbella Harbour

Women / The Edit

Mango playsuit £39.99

Style

KEY PIECE!

For model, TV presenter and Epsom Downs Investec Ladies Day Style Judge Vogue Williams, summer holidays mean spending time with the family

Insta Shot

Victoria Secret sports bra, £43.75

Topshop MOM jeans, £40

two from Spotted on Celeb ready for when I go back to Spain this year.

I’d say playsuits are my statement piece for when I go to the beach. I don’t pack many pairs of shorts for the beach because they’re just a bit of a nightmare to put over a bikini when it’s wet.

I spend a lot of time at work so when I’m at home I like to keep it really casual, I love a good pair of jeans. I’m a real fan of the matching tracksuit trend at the moment. The great thing about them is that they aren’t so much a tracksuit, but more of a full outfit. If I’m working or I have to go out, I’ll always wear a dress but when I’m at home I’m casual with no make-up on.

Marbella is just a short drive away so we always go there. We spend a lot of time at Puerto Banús because it’s great for shopping, it has a Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Zara and Dior. As for Sotogrande itself, there are lots of amazing places to eat, you can go anywhere and have a fantastic meal. The Polo Club is probably my favourite place because they serve up the most amazing steak, so we make sure that we go there every time.

Vogue Williams will be judging the Investec Ladies Day Style Award at Epsom Downs racecourse on Friday 3 June. Tickets start from £18.50: epsomderby.co.uk

Cancha Food

Zara playsuit £25.99

H&M swimsuit, £24.99

Louis Vuttion toiletry bag, £185 Cancha Interior

Topshop jacket, £45

Chloé

Louis Vuitton folding jewellery case, £555

My favourite holiday destination is Sotogrande in Spain. My mum lives there so my family and I use it as a meeting point. We all stay with her and it’s a fantastic place for us all to get together. I tend to try and get there at least two to three times each summer if I can. It has beautiful beaches, a harbour and it’s renowned for it’s Polo Club.

There’s so much to do but for me it’s all about spending time with my family. We go for nice dinners, have long days at the beach, lunch at beach bars and shop at boutiques. I go to the gym every day and normally end up writing a couple of blog posts just because Sotogrande is such a beautiful place.

I don’t tend to pack much because luckily for me my mum is really stylish, so I wear a lot of her clothes.

Realistically, I could probably get away with taking just hand luggage when I go, but I always end up finding lots of clothes that I want to take with me — I pack a lot of playsuits and bikinis.

I like to keep my holiday look chic and simple. I think playsuits are really great, I’ve already bought

Topshop joggers, £39

Cancha Exterior

Seen sunglasses, £40, Vision Express The Fort Shopping Park

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 15

An Auction of Antique & Modern Jewellery 16th June, 14th July, 11th August View the full auction catalogue and sign up to bid www.fellows.co.uk NOW RECEIVING CONSIGNMENTS FOR FUTURE AUCTIONS, VISIT WWW.FELLOWS.CO.UK/VALUATIONS Mayfair Office | 2nd Floor, 3 Queen St, London W1J 5PA | 020 7127 4198 Jewellery Quarter Saleroom | 19 Augusta St, Birmingham B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131

Women / Fashion Rochelle Humes

Fashion News Words: Josie Johnson

WE LOVE

BUY A/W16 NOW

Rochelle Humes khaki bikini top,£22, briefs, £16, Very

Rochelle Humes swimsuit with string back £35, Very

EDITOR’S PICK!

HOT SWIMWEAR

Following her hugely successful fashion collection from very.co.uk, tv presenter and celeb mum Rochelle Humes has unveiled her first swimwear line. The 10 piece collection features eye-catching bikinis with bold prints, cut-outs, embellishments and cover ups bound to bring glamour to your summer wardrobe without breaking the bank. The collection is designed to fit and flatter all shapes, coming in sizes 8-20 with prices ranging from £16-£35. Available now at very.co.uk.

Marks and Spencer has become the first high-street retailer to follow in the footsteps of Burberry and other high-end lines by announcing a ‘see now - buy now’ collection, subverting the usual six month waiting period. The autumn range, titled ‘The Big Easy’ was made immediately available on 11 May and is on trend both in terms of business strategy and style. The pieces highlight the coveted combination of luxury and wearability, with wrap and tie details, midi skirts, high neck knits and long mannish coats. Never have we wished for summer to be over sooner!

Monica Vinader 18ct RG plated thin bangle £220, sterling silver thin bangle,£180

Marks and Spencer

Monica Vinader, the jeweller whose designs have graced the wrists of Emma Watson and Alicia Vikander, has unveiled the new ‘It’ bangle as part of her Signature Collection.

Coming in rose gold, yellow gold and silver, the bangle is described by the designer as a ‘one of a kind that people could wear every day—sculptural and comfortable but with the option of glamour’, and comes with the possibility of custom engraving.

This minimalist statement piece is available now on monicavinader.com

STATEMENT DIALS

Michael Kors, rose gold watch, £210

Swarovski crystalline watch, £199, T.H. Baker

Michael Kors watch, £279, Goldsmiths

Marc Jacobs gold plated watch, £185, T.H. Baker

A statement watch ought to be every woman’s secret weapon, and a standout dial is a boldly feminine way to make your timepiece a real feature. Look to Fossil, Thomas Sabo and Michael Kors’ new releases for inspiration in exposed cogs, bejewelled crowns and prettily placed sub-dials.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 17

Women / The Edit

DETAIL DENIM Looking to style up your daytime denim?

Customised jeans are the cool girl’s choice for a fun statement.

For a subtler take, go for two-tone and team with a simple look on top.

Karen Millen jeans, £90

Topshop Unique

J Brand jeans £220, House of Fraser

Chloé

Topshop jeans, £55

H&M jeans, £39.99

DENIM Revolution

Paige jeans, £195, Harvey Nichols

Zara jeans, £29.99

The age of the skinny has well and truly gone. The new generation of jeans have been reworked, revamped and reinvented for our sole pleasure (and comfort). Meet your new denim BBF …

Chiara Ferragni

Victoria Beckham jeans, £250, Selfridges

Dorothy Perkins

CROP KICK FLARE Hailed as the biggest denim trend of 2016, this cool new style is the perfect silhouette for summer. Tuck in your top to show off the figure-flattering shape.

Levi’s jeans, £80

Levi’s jeans, £85

This 90s classic will flatter all body shapes. Opt for highrise to conceal your tummy and for extra ‘street-style’ factor.

Wear them as you would your skinnies.

18 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Zara jeans, £29.99

Marks & Spencer jeans, £45

STRAIGHT LEG

Miss KG embellished sandals, £50, Kurt Geiger

Women / The Edit

Aldo fringe sandals, £45

SLIP ON Shake up your flat shoe game with tassels, metallic and embellishment detailing. These pairs are super-practical and seriously stylish. Bye bye blisters.

Zara metal detail sandals, £19.99

Whistles wood wedge, £185 Ste £3 lla M 65 , H cCa arv rtn ey ey Nic cut ho -ou t sa ls

Mango knot sandals, £19.99

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Make a statement from the feet up with these eyecatching details. From sporty finishes to stand-out prints – make these sandals the star of your summer look

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Michael Kors snake print sandals, £140

Topshop wedge flatform, £56

FLATFORM Dune platform sandals, £99

NEXT sporty strap sandals, £32

115 ley s, £ om al Br and s & ell int ss pr Ru ake sn

Seen all over the catwalk, in classic raffia, sporty and wood – S/S16’s take on chunky sandals adds a street-style edge to pretty dresses and summer tailoring.

Kurt Geiger sandals, £199, John Lewis

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 19

bullring.co.uk

I AM SUMMER I AM DINING OUT I AM LOOKING COOL

Mango leather bag, £39.99

35 frill top, £

Whistles statement earrings, £30

STYLE TIP

Don’t want to go all out on the look? Team a frill blouse with denim shorts for a more subtle take.

Miss Se lfridg e

Coach

Women / The Edit

Prairie Romance

Topshop denim mom shorts, £30

Zara leather sandals, £49.99

H&M jumpsuit, £39.99

Chloé

A mix between the Wild West and Victoriana – be a modern prairie girl with feminine frills and ditzy print with a tough edge at Bullring

NEXT western boots, £45

New Look floral dress, £19.99

Karen Millen stud suede jacket, £499

FASHION NEWS!

se midi

Michael Kors

u Wareho

Get exclusive offers and access to the most popular events with the Bullring Plus App.

0 skirt, £11

Kurt Geiger nude sandals, £110

Oasis fringe clutch, £25

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 21

LOOK & FEEL AMAZING THIS SUMMER With a wide range of beachwear, kaftans, and bikinis feel confident with Sipsey.

Sipsey Lingerie Limited, 39 Drury Lane, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 3BH T: 0121 7041 502

W: www.sipseylingerie.com

NEED TO KNOW Le Mystère

Women Women/ /The TheEdit Edit

FIND THE RIGHT SIZE Sukhy’s guide to discovering your body’s best bra IF YOU ARE WEARING THE WRONG SIZE...

• Your band strap will ride up your back and you will find yourself constantly adjusting it.

• The underwire and straps will dig into your skin, sides and ribs, causing redness, irritation, soreness and/or pain.

• Your breasts may spill out of the cups causing a sort of double breast effect.

• In worst-case scenarios, you may be experiencing back pain, shoulder pain and neck pain.

CONSIDER YOUR BODY SHAPE

We are all very different, not only in shape but also in body type. No two breasts are the same, one is always larger than the other and at Sipsey Lingerie we assess all of this when fitting you.

GET FITTED REGULARLY

You body is a phenomenal thing. It is constantly changing, and for this reason you should get fitted every six months or as soon as you feel a change in your body.

The Perfect Fit

Style and comfort for every woman, Solihull’s newest independent boutique Sipsey Lingerie makes finding your perfect bra a breeze

T

Chantelle

here’s no denying the power of well-fitting underwear. It can make you look slender, feel sexier and be more confident. But finding the perfect fit for your shape is no mean feat. In fact, seven out of ten women are wearing the wrong bra size, and we can all empathise with the pain of ill-fitting underwear. Sipsey Lingerie are eager to change that.

The brainchild of Sukhy Nijjar, after a decade of investment banking and the sudden loss of her father, she decided to follow her passion and make the leap from banking to business. ‘I had always wanted my own business; coming from a family with a business background, it was in my blood.

I booked myself onto some lingerie, fitting and retail courses and I loved it from the start. I travelled to Paris and learnt about

the industry and then six months later, I opened my doors in Solihull!’

The independent boutique opened last year on Drury Lane, Solihull and their experts have over 15 years of fitting experience.

Their goal? To educate women about the importance of quality and comfortable lingerie. They specialise in fitting, so whether you are looking for your perfect everyday bra or a specialist mastectomy or maternity style, you know you are in very safe hands.

Sipsey Lingerie are also very particular about the brands they stock, choosing only well-established, high quality and ethical brands such as Chantelle, a French brand that produce hand crafted lingerie which can take up to 18 months to create.

To find your perfect bra call Sipsey Lingerie on 0121 704 3314 or visit sipseylingerie.com Matilda briefs, £55

Desire padded plunge bustier, £42

Style Loves!

Champagne brief, £90

Champagne balcony bra, £105

Matilda bra, £95 Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 23

Women / Fashion

24 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Phase Eight S/S16

Phase Eight lace dress, £169, John Lewis

Women / The Edit lish rize Eng Accesso d, £10 n a rl a g garden

Accessorize encrusted earrings, £12

Lulu G bag uiness li , £24 p 5, Jo s clutch hn L ewis

Monsoon print maxi dress, £89

Jenny Packham S/S 16

EDITOR ’S PICK

Monsoon

CLASSIC ELEGANCE

lace dress, £149

Jacques Vert bow shoes, £99

Best Dressed Wedding Guest

Carvela block sandals, £120, John Lewis

Jaeger blossom jumpsuit, £225, John Lewis

Timeless and sophisticated, the classic wedding calls for dressed up smarts.

Go for calf-skimming designs with full skirts in satin and lace. Muted pastels and jewel tones will perfectly balance a tasteful fascinator or delicate hairpiece.

RUSTIC COUNTRY

When the couple wants to marry in a lush outdoor setting, it’s all about finding the balance between smart and casual. Fit and flare dresses, delicate prints and grass friendly heels or sandals are sure to hit the mark.

Match your style with the mood of the day. From glamorous traditional events to laid-back and rural, you’re bound to find the perfect wedding look at Grand Central Birmingham

Words: Josie Johnson

Gift Ideas

2

1

3

4

Thoughtful wedding presents that show you care …

White Company memories frame, £150

Voyage Elemental amphitrite vase, £55, John Lewis

Jo Malone peony and blush suede candle, £42

Tom Dixon brew coffee maker, £125 John Lewis

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 25

Women / Interview

Corinne Bailey Rae:

Finding freedom Following a six-year hiatus and a journey of self-discovery after devastating heartbreak, Corinne Bailey Rae is back with an inspiring new album, a fresh new optimism and zest for life

26 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Women / Interview

‘I’ve been listening to my dreams and I’ve been listening to my body and how it responds and how it teaches me a lot about what’s going on inside’

T

he last ten years have been nothing short of a rollercoaster for Corinne Bailey Rae. In 2006, the Leeds-based singersongwriter was riding the wave of success with a string of Grammy and Brit award nominations and a number one debut album which sold over four million copies worldwide. But soon after, Corinne’s world was turned upside down when her husband of eight years, saxophonist Jason Rae, died of an accidental methadone and alcohol overdose. Yet, she speaks with such warmth and sincerity, her voice with just a hint of a Leeds twang, you’d have never guessed that she’d experienced such sorrow. ‘I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to make another record at all, but I knew I just loved writing.’

Time is a healer and now, six years on since her griefstricken Mercury Prize nominated album The Sea, she’s back with an uplifting new sound, The Heart Speaks in Whispers, inspired by inner strength and transformation.

It’s a vibrant mix, encompassing rock, pop, soul and jazz and sounds both euphoric and assertive — not something you might associate with the 37-year-old ‘Put Your Records On’ singer. On the day of her album release, Elle Sixsmith caught up with Corinne Bailey Rae to discuss self-discovery, Prince and her new found sense of freedom.

Your new album is quite a transformation from the last. What was your inspiration behind it?

I think it was really influenced by my own experiences.

I’ve been listening to my dreams and I’ve been listening to my body and how it responds and how it teaches me a lot about what’s going on inside. The album is about listening to that inner voice, and when I was writing the songs these themes kept reoccurring so they were the real

influences of the record. I was also inspired by being in nature, reading poetry and listening to my instincts and just seeing what happened when I sat at an instrument and opened my mouth. Most of the songs were written in that sort of free, improvised way and that was a real pleasure for me.

Were there any particular dreams that influenced any of the songs?

‘The Skies Will Break’ came from a dream that I had where this person came into my mind, and then when I woke up I wrote down lots of lyrics. I wrote down the lyric from the bridge which is, ‘the skies will break for you, the seas will rend, the waves will part, it won’t be long until it ends’. It’s the idea of transformation and hope that came through in my dream and then there were other songs that were almost in a dream-state. With ‘Walk on’ I just pressed record on my phone and sang and then I had to learn it to perform it.

You’ve built your own studio at home — what made you decide to do that?

I really wanted to have my own space. I feel like I can be there any time of the day, I can be there for a long as I want, I feel like I can be playful and can experiment.

I can do hours and hours of vocals, or I can do things really spontaneously. I don’t like the idea of saying, ‘It’s 11 o’clock on a Wednesday: you’ve got to go in and do the vocal for this song’. Sometimes you don’t feel like doing it or sometimes you really want to sing and in those moments you want to just be able to go and do it with no pressure. I feel that I really believe in all the songs because I haven’t sat down with a fashionable songwriter and been like, ‘ok, what’s everyone else talking about?’ or ‘let’s get this beat up that this producer is using’ or whatever. It’s really been more natural and organic than that.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 27

Women / Interview

‘I’ve learnt about transformation and how there’s so much richness in life. The more you do, the braver you become’

You’re based in Leeds. Do get artistic inspiration or comfort from being there?

I’m in Leeds because a lot of my family and friends are here. So when I’m relaxing and not particularly working, I love to hang out with my friends and be here. But I guess a lot of my work is touring so I felt like I need that. I love the energy of Brazil, I love being in Paris, I love Los Angeles, I really love New York. So it’s really important for me to be able to get out of Leeds and get inspiration from being in those places. But I don’t think I’ll ever just stay in just one place. In the last ten years, I’ve been away from Leeds a lot. We moved to LA towards the end of the album which meant that we could really let the sunshine in. And a lot of my friends are musicians so we could get them involved with the record. They were all doing their own projects so it just really underlined the importance of doing your own thing and being free and in control of what you want.

And also that you don’t need to listen to that pressure — just follow your own dreams. It felt like a real boost, like it was a just the right time after me and Steve (producer, musician and Corinne’s husband of three years) had been working on it so long together; this team of people around us felt really empowering. I want to continue going to lots of places and being a nomad.

Prince sadly died a few months ago. He had been a fan of yours since the beginning — were you influenced by him at all?

I met Prince a lot of times. He came to my first ever show in New York and then he invited me to a London gig, so I went to a lot of his shows and then he played in Abu Dhabi and he invited us to watch. We went to the show and then to his hotel suite, and we were up with the band until the next day — it was really special being around him. I always felt that he was a massive encourager of my music. He tweeted about my music just a few weeks ago and that as really incredible. He always said, ‘I look out for new stuff that you do’.

28 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

OUT NOW!

Did you get a sense of how he was as a person as opposed to his on stage persona?

Absolutely. When I think of Prince, I think of generosity — the way he’d go and play a show and then do an after-show and play for even longer. He’d play for five or six hours a night. He was a very hard-worker and I think he was humble and kind. I never felt intimidated being around him or that he was being anything other than genuine. It’s great when people can build a sort of persona around themselves, it’s a really sensible thing to do and it’s a really good way to protect yourself, but it was amazing to meet the person and find out just how kind and good they were.

For some people, grief is something that can last forever. What would you say has helped you heal?

Time is the biggest thing in terms of healing.

I think it takes a long time to process loss but it’s great to have good friends and family that you can talk to. The feeling of loss of a person definitely lasts your whole life but it’s amazing how your life grows around it and you learn to live with that pain.

The joyful things in life seem even more joyful in contrast.

You’ve been friends with your husband Steve Brown since the 90s — did love sneak up on you or did it come very naturally?

It felt like a really gradual thing. All my experiences with love have been very gradual, it’s almost like you don’t notice it happening.

The main thing I feel is a massive desire to spend time with him. I’d known him for such a long time and it’s amazing when your feelings for someone just develop into something completely different and new.

What are the most important life lessons that you’ve learnt in the past few years?

I’ve learnt that listening to yourself is really important. I think that we as individuals are really powerful. We have a lot of wisdom and intuition and it’s important to tap into that and to quieten down the noises around you.

Spending time just with yourself and doing something that’s away from screens and phones and being outside, even if you’re just walking around the streets, it’s really good for your mind. I’ve learnt about transformation and how there’s so much richness in life. The more you do, the braver you become.

Women / Fashion Bikini top blue/white piped, £12, Sheer stripe bomber jacket, £50, Textured culottes, £32, Sporty sandals, £32, Silver multi hoop dangle earrings, £10

TAKE A TRIP BEHIND TH E SCENES

Head to styleb ham.com to go behind the scen es at our cover shoot with N EXT

Low-key and effortlessly cool with a sporty edge. March into summer in a soft take on utility with NEXT

Photography: Mike Raven Model: Katrina at Bookings Models • Make-up: Diana Stoencheva • Hair: Alfie at Bad Apple Hair • Styling: Elle Sixsmith and Paige Goddard •Assistant: Josie Johnson. All fashion exclusive to NEXT.

IN BLOOM Special thanks to Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 29

Women / Fashion

This page: White ribbed striped top, £20, White textured culottes, £32, Orange/ black/white sandals, £32, Silver hoop and bar earrings, £5. Opposite page: Linen tailored blazer, £55, Linen trouser, £35, Bikini top black, £16, Sporty sandals, £32

30 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Women / Fashion

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 31

Women / Fashion

Tailored navy sleeveless blazer, £38, Silver hoop and bar earrings, £5, Sterling silver friendship necklace, £18

32 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Women / Fashion

Knit shell with eyelet detail, £28, White/blue check trouser, £36, Silver hoop and bar earrings, £5

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 33

Women / Fashion

This page: Medinilla Myriantha Opposite page: White and blue striped shirt, £34, Navy white striped wide leg trouser with tie, £35, Sterling silver friendship necklace, £18, Sporty sandals, £32

34 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Women / Fashion

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 35

Women / Fashion

Linen tailored blazer, £55, Linen trouser, £35, Bikini top black, £16, Sporty sandals, £32

36 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Women / Fashion

Silver tassel necklace, ÂŁ12.50, White linen blouse, ÂŁ32

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 37

Women / Fashion

Graphic blue stripe white dress, ÂŁ40, Sterling silver friendship necklace, ÂŁ18

38 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Women / Fashion Ribbed navy top, £16, Wrap skirt, £32, Buckle sandals, £35

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 39

You’ll love the advantages A private members’ club with a history dating back to the birth of lawn tennis, we offer 21st century racquet and leisure facilities, set in 14 acres of beautiful grounds, five minutes from Birmingham’s city centre.

Quote ‘Style Birmingham’ to claim 50% off the entrance fee To find out more visit: edgbastonpriory.com or call 0121 440 2492 Terms & Conditions apply

Women / Fashion

What happens when you combine three of the world’s top female tennis players, fabulous designer looks and a leading fashion artist? Laura Smith finds out

rn Katharine Hepbu a ard paves the way tow for ying modern game, pla shorts. in e tim the first

W

ith the Aegon Classic Birmingham tennis tournament now one of the most prestigious stops on the WTA tour, its arrival at Edgbaston Priory Club this June brings the best line-up in its 35 year history, with 15 of the world’s top 30 women coming to town. To celebrate we asked three of its big hitters to be styled by our very own Harvey Nichols, and esteemed Birmingham-born fashion artist Marc McGreevy was there to capture the stunning final looks.

SPORTING A NEW LOOK

Fashion has long been synonymous with sport and the changing face of women’s tennis has been particularly dramatic over the last century; from the lace up corsets and court-length dresses of the 1900s to the skin-tight neon spandex of today. Along the way the sport has seen some seminal fashion moments, such as actress Katharine Hepburn playing in shorts for the first time in the 40s, through to the mod minis of the 60s, the move from whites to colour in the 80s by players like Chris Evert-Lloyd, and rise of players like Anna Kournikova and

The Perfect Match Maria Sharapova in the Noughties, famed almost as much for what they would wear on the court as they were for their top level performances. Most recently sister act Venus and Serena Williams pushed the fashion boundaries further, playing in red and black lace dresses and sparkly catsuits, and even finding a unique way to interpret Wimbledon whites by incorporating revealing cuts and embellishments.

THE RIGHT STANCE

Of course the history of women’s tennis concerns much more than fashion. With the sport on the rise and the recent, and very public, debates around pay levels in comparison to their male counterparts it seems timely to highlight it as some of it’s top players hit Birmingham. Simona Halep, Angelique Kerber and Lucie Safarova demonstrate how you can be ambitious and successful; balancing power and athleticism on the court with a desire to be glamorous on the red carpet. Surely this message is more relevant than ever for young girls growing up who have their eye on a future Wimbledon trophy, or indeed success in any sport?

Clockwise from top: Katharine Hepburn plays in shorts, Carole Lombard in true 60’s style, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova plays Serena Williams at the Australian Open 2016, Chris Evert-Lloyd, Anna Kournikova playing at the Acura Tennis Classic, Hana Mandlíková Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 41

Women / Fashion

SERVED WITH STYLE With the Aegon Classic Birmingham closely followed by Wimbledon and its exclusive black tie champions’ dinner, top ranked players Simona, Angelique and Lucie picked their favourite looks with a little bit of help from Harvey Nichols, and the illustrative vision of artist Marc McGreevy. The end result? Three winning looks – game, set and match!

LUCIE SAFAROVA

Twice a Grand Slam doubles champion, the Czech star returns to the Edgbaston Priory Club looking to further her second appearance two years ago.

THE STATS:

What has been your career highlight?

Age: 29 “I think it would have to be reaching the singles final of the French Open, also Nationality: Czech winning the Australian Open and French Open in doubles, and the four Fed Republic Current ranking: 13 Cup titles for Czech Republic.”

Career high ranking: 5 What would you have liked to be if not a tennis pro?

Best Aegon Classic “I’m a very active person, so I think I’d still be doing something in sports. Anything Birmingham result: 2nd Round in 2014 that involves moving about or helping other people be active.”

Career highlight: 2016 What is your favourite fashion label?

French Open finalist “I’ve been a Nike girl for 15 years, so really my whole career has been with them.

I love the brand, I think they have a lot of cool stuff both on and off the court.

They have some great stuff for running and training, and I always enjoy playing in their outfits. Off the court, I kind of like to change it up. I like jeans, a nice leather jacket and t-shirt. Diesel and Zara are good for everyday casual wear. And then sometimes I also like to dress up nicely; I like all sorts of dresses and of course there are some high-end brands for parties.”

Tell us more about your off-court look for special events. What do you like to wear and why did you choose this outfit?

“If it is a fancy party, then I’m looking for something I feel comfortable and confident in, but at the same time, I like to wear something that’s a bit interesting and different as well.

I chose this dress because even though it’s black, it is also colourful with the flowers on it and I love the shoes, they’re very different.”

How excited are you to be coming back to Birmingham to play?

“I’m excited to be playing in Birmingham again. I couldn’t make it last year, so I’m happy to be heading there this year. It’s a fun city, with great fans. They’ve improved the facilities, increased the tournament size, and the grass is really good, so I’m definitely excited to be there.”

Get Lucie’s look

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42 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

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3

1. Anya Hindmarch clutch, £795, 2. Iosselliani cuff, £255, 3. Sophia Webster sandals, £550, 4. Alice and Olivia dress, £515

Women / Fashion

1. RED Valentino cherry-print dress, £840, 2.

Givenchy leather clutch, £820, 3. Charlotte Olympia satin sandals, £595, 4.

Shaun Leane cherry blossom cuff, £2300

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SIMONA HALEP

This year Halep, a former French Open finalist and semi-finalist at both Wimbledon and the US Open, and is looking to avenge her Aegon quarter-final defeat in 2015.

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Get Simona’s look

THE STATS: Age: 25 Nationality: Romanian Current ranking: 6 Career high ranking: 2 Best Aegon Classic Birmingham result: 2015 Quarter-finalist Career highlight: 2014 French Open finalist

What has been your career highlight?

“The best moment of my career so far has been when I played my first Grand Slam final at the French Open in 2014.

Of course, every tournament that I’ve won during my career is very special to me, but reaching the final of a Grand Slam has been the most important moment so far.”

What would you have liked to be if not a tennis pro?

“It’s tough to say, because I started playing tennis at four-and-a-half years old. So really I have no idea, but perhaps something to do with mathematics, because I really liked that subject at school.”

What is your favourite fashion label?

“On court, I wear Adidas. I love what they produce and I feel really good wearing their designs. For my tennis clothes, I prefer them to be classic and simple designs. Off court, I love shopping. One of my favourite brands is Dolce & Gabbana – I love the cut of their jeans. I love shoes, mainly sporty shoes. And of course handbags, Chanel is my favourite.”

Tell us more about your off-court look for special events. What do you like to wear and why did you choose this outfit?

“I like to be classy and elegant. I chose this outfit because I like that it’s short; longer dresses aren’t for me. It has longer sleeves, so it doesn’t show the muscles in my arms, ha! (smiling). And I like the black colour.”

How excited are you to be coming back to Birmingham to play?

“I’m excited because every tournament on grass is special. I felt really great last year in Birmingham and had some good matches. I’m looking forward to going there again and, if possible, having an even better result.”

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 43

Women / Fashion

About the artist...

Fashion illustrator Marc McGreevy discusses making the leap from Birmingham to Mayfair, what he thinks of our tennis players and why Jerry Hall is one of his biggest fans...

For a boy from Brum, Marc McGreevy has certainly come along way from his Kings Heath roots to become the first ever artist in residence at The May Fair Hotel. So just how did this amazing career come about? “‘I grew up in a family that worked within fashion and art so I suppose I was very lucky in that respect,’ explains Marc, whose father was a cartoonist and sister a fashion model. “I was also inspired by regular visits to see the Pre-Raphaelite paintings in Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery - the beautiful way they were developed and their accuracy.”

Growing up Marc had always been fascinated by fashion and knew he wanted to work in within it. ‘I was probably one of the only teenage boys in Birmingham that had pages of fashion mags plastered over my bedroom walls,” he laughs. “I shared a room with my brother and he was very tolerant but he went for sports posters on his side!” At 15 he decided to study technical fashion at college in Birmingham where he learnt the basics of cutting, sewing and pattern-making, skills, which he thinks gave him a strong grounding when it came to translating fashion to art. After studying in Derby Marc moved to London. “My aunt worked in fashion so I would go with her to work and draw sketches and her colleagues would look over my shoulder and tell me that’s what I should do for a living, so I did!” he laughs. “It was a lot of hard work but I had a dream and I followed it”.

Inspired by the famous fashion illustrators of the 80s and artists like Antonio Lopez, Marc created his own personal style over his career. With work featuring in Elle magazine, Browns boutiques and London Fashion Week, he has collaborated with a number of designers including Vivienne Westwood and even designed his own jewellery. He’s also drawn portraits for a range of celebrity fans including Joan Collins (who he describes as a “jewel that lights up the room”), Germaine Greer and Jerry Hall. Marc also loved drawing his collection of supermodel Alek Wek, and cites more recent inspiration from designers Corrie Nielsen and Zandra Rhodes, and top model (and fellow Brummie) Charlie France.

So how did drawing tennis players differ from his more typical fashion fodder? “I love the girls, they are so talented and beautiful,” he says. “These women really have something so I’ve drawn them in a more classical fashion illustration style.

I really enjoyed the process, I just hope they like the results!”

Judging from our umpire seat at Style Birmingham we don’t think Marc needs to worry...

See more of Marc’s work at marcmcgreevy.com

44 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

1. Alice + Olivia dress, £515, 2.

Manolo Blahnik crystal satin pumps, £520, 3. 3 - Alexander McQueen satin box clutch, £1195, 4.

3 - Kenneth Jay Lane earrings, £135

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Get Angelique’s look

Clockwise from top: A fashion illustration, Marc McGreevy sketches a sitter, Zandra Rhodes 2016, Charlie France portrait

Women / Fashion

ANGELIQUE KERBER

Australian Open winner Angelique Kerber is returning to defend her Aegon Classic Birmingham title this year.

What has been your career highlight?

“Australian Open champion 2016! (laughs). That’s my career highlight.”

What would you have liked to be if not a tennis pro?

“I think I’d like to be an actress and make movies, something like that.”

What is your favourite fashion label?

“On the court, it’s really important for me that the Adidas clothes I wear are really comfortable. I need everything to fit perfectly, but to also feel good when you’re sweating and running around. Off court, when I’m going out for dinner I like to wear something nice, like a nice dress. Hugo Boss makes some great clothes.”

Tell us more about your off-court look for special events. What do you like to wear and why did you choose this outfit?

THE STATS:

“It depends which event Age: 28 it is, but usually when I’m Nationality: German going to a special event, Current ranking: 3 Career high ranking: 2 I want to look completely Best Aegon Classic different to when I’m on Birmingham result: court. I like to have my Champion in 2015 Career highlight: 2016 make-up done properly, Australian Open champion my hair done nicely, and I’ll usually wear a dress.

And for special occasions, I definitely like to wear heels!

I chose this outfit because I liked the shape of the dress design and the colours the designer has used.”

How excited are you to be coming back to Birmingham to play?

“I’m really excited to come back to Birmingham because I won last year and it was my first grass court title. It’s nice to have this tournament before Wimbledon where you really can prepare properly.

It’s a great tournament and a really cool city, where people really love sport. I’ve always really enjoyed playing there, which is why winning the title in 2015 was very special.”

The Aegon Classic Birmingham runs 11th-19th June. For tickets, visit lta.org.uk/major-events/aegon-classic-birmingham

㄀㄀Ⰰ 䈀刀䤀一䐀䰀䔀夀倀䰀䄀䌀䔀Ⰰ 䈀刀䤀一䐀䰀䔀夀 倀䰀䄀䌀䔀Ⰰ ㈀ 䈀刀唀一匀圀䤀䌀䬀 匀儀唀䄀刀䔀Ⰰ 䈀䤀刀䴀䤀一䜀䠀䄀䴀 䈀㄀ ㈀䰀倀

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 45

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Beauty / Shopping

1 1. Leona wearing an imPRESS manicure 2.

Performing with Pitbull 3.

Backstage with Taylor Swift 2 3

K L A T Y T BEAU

Leona Lewis

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The singer and KISS ambassador on red carpet prep, beauty hacks and applying fake eyelashes like a pro I’m an expert at putting on fake eyelashes – I can even do them in the car! But my one tip would be to wait for the glue to dry, this is something that people always forget to do – wait a few minutes and apply to the lash. Then use the end of a brush and press down along the lash line to make sure the lash is really close to the lash line – this is the only way it will look 100% natural without the gap!

I like coral and peach tones as they complement my skin. When I go out I sometime splurge on an intense ruby red! I love natural products and my mum makes her own products which contain coconut and marula oil – I use it on my skin, hair and nails, literally everything.

During the day I like a relaxed look, with beautiful glowing skin, barely there foundation and light shimmery lip with a natural lash. But I do chop and change a lot. Sometimes I’m easy and don’t wear any make-up, other times I want to put everything on including the kitchen sink!

It just really depends how I feel.

My top make-up hack is to always line your lips when wearing red lipstick. Then fill your lips with the liner and put the lipstick on top – this will make the colour pop.

I match my nails to how I’m feeling and what I’m wearing. I do love red but that’s probably because of my mum, as I was so used to seeing her red nails all the time.

I love dark tones like a really deep purple as it pretty much goes with everything.

I experiment with lots of colours and that’s what’s so great about an imPRESS manicure – they come in every colour of the rainbow. On stage I always go for something sparkly like KISS Gel Fantasy.

I prep for red carpet events like I’d prep for the stage. I do a good workout called KOBOX, which is basically like circuit interval training combined with boxing.

I also love Soul Cycle; it’s dark with loud music so no one can see you sweating which is the best thing!

With my make-up, I like to focus on eyes. I always do my eyes first and then the rest of my face because you can tell how much more make-up you need on.

I wear fake eyelashes way more than I wear mascara so a big smoky eye with an amazing lash is a must. When I’m on stage, I sometimes double them up, so I may use a natural lash like KISS Look So Natural in Flirty and then an intense one like KISS Blooming in Peony.

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1. Mac ruby woo lipstick, £15.50 2.Clarins marula cleansing oil, £21 3. KISS Blooming lashes, £6.75 4. NARS velvet lip liner in Nihiwatu, £18 5. KISS Gel Fantasy nail knit, £6.99 6. Vita Coco coconut oli, £10 Boots

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Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 47

Royston Blythe

Beauty / Hair Christian Dior S/S16

BE FRIZZ-FREE

For any bride who suffers with frizzy and uncontrollable hair, we recommend the ultimate luxury smoothing treatment – Kerastraight (see Royston Blythe salons for details). This one treatment will straighten and repair the hair whilst transforming dry, frizzy strands into manageable and low maintenance locks.

The treatment also lasts for up to four months and ensures hair is in great condition.

The Essentials

n’s This seaso ft and ctured, so are unstru a perfect – g charmin ly ss le rt o ff e tiful, fresh brace beau time to em al, fresh ink ethere flowers. Th d into a ly scattere roses loose . o half-up-d

e, £37 Elixir Ultim Kerastase

IP! INSIDEbriRdalThairstyles

If your stylist isn't available to attend your special day, here are some key essentials that must be stored in your bridal suite. Bridal musthaves include: hairspray and shine spray, and depending on your style, you should consider an excellent serum such as Kerastase Elixir Ultime, £37, and a volume boosting powder like Schwarzkopf got2b Powder'ful Volumizing Styling Powder, £3. A professional and experienced wedding stylist will advise their bride on the most suitable styling products for their hair.

DREAMY HAIR

2016's brides want classic elegance with a modern boho twist. As seasons change and fashions switch, long tousled waves are still a firm favourite. But brides no longer need to grow their hair for their wedding day, as Issa S/S16 there are so many hair extension options to give you cascading locks. Royston Blythe can easily create that fairytale-like hair using Rapture Hair Extensions – they are quick to secure and cause absolutely no damage to the hair.

Bridal Hairstyles: The 2016 Guide Royston Blythe talk pretty wedding hair trends and exactly how to get your best hair day (on the day that matters the most!)

Get the Look: BOHO BRAID

1

Ideally you should work on day-old-hair or spritz the hair with a good dry shampoo. Comb the hair forward evenly around the face, then comb the hair from the temple over (left or right depending on your preference).

Take three strands of hair at the temple area and under-braid (working your braids in the opposite way to normal). Keep picking up sections of the hair as you move around.

2 48 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

3 4 5

When reaching the back of the ear, you should finish and pat downwards before fastening with a band.

Gently loosen the braid keeping the look soft and romantic rather than tight and structured.

Take the long end of the braid and wrap over to the top behind the ear and push underneath and secure with pins. Leave stray hairs around the face to ensure a soft, fresh and modern feel.

Festival Braids

Women / The Edit

Inspired by the stars of Coachella, here are the coolest festival-ready braids to try now

4 Ways!

Alexander McQueen off-the-shoulder dress, £1,525

Mac Prep & Prime Skin Smoother, £21, Mac Strobe Cream, £24.50, Dior Nude Foundation, £32.50, Mac Naked pigment, £16, Mac Vanilla pigment, £16, Mac Ecetera lip liner, £12.50, Mac Instant Gold Lustreglass, £14.50, The Balm Mary Lou Manizer highlighter shadow, £17.49

Halo Braid A chic festival favourite, this chunky braid looks effortlessly cool from every angle.

Photography: Mike Raven Model: Lottie Sunkel at Bookings Models Hair: Pamela Cooney and Jordan Lloyd at TONI & GUY Make-up: Sarah Hunston Styling: Elle Sixsmith and Paige Goddard All fashion from Harvey Nichols

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 49

Women / The Edit

Double Knot

Bored of plaits and fishtails? A colourful knot is the perfect way to modernise pigtail plaits.

50 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Pinko striped off-the-shoulder top, £169

Mac Prep & Prime Skin Smoother, £21, Mac Strobe Cream, £24.50, Dior Nude Foundation, £32.50, YSL Touché Éclat, £25, Mac Creative Copper palette, £30, Mac Copper pigment, £16, Illamasque Furore pigment, £17, Mac Ecetera lip liner, £12.50, Mac Velvet Teddy lipstick, £15.50, The Balm Mary Lou Manizer highlighter shadow, £17.49

Women / The Edit

Pinko eyelet-embroidered top, £175

Mac Prep & Prime Skin Smoother, £21,Mac Strobe Cream, £24.50, Dior Nude Foundation, £32.50, YSL Touché Éclat, £25, Mac Creative Copper palette, £30, Mac Copper pigment, £16, Illamasque Furore pigment, £17, Mac Ecetera lip liner, £12.50, Mac Velvet Teddy lipstick, £15.50, The Balm Mary Lou Manizer highlighter shadow, £17.49

Fishtail Updo A fishtail braid is the ultimate bohochic style but for a S/S16 update, go for bed head with lots of texture.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 51

Women / The Edit Mac Prep & Prime Skin Smoother, £21 Mac Strobe Cream, £24.50 Benefit Sun Beam, £19.50 Dior Nude Foundation, £32.50 Chanel Emerveille eyeshadow, £25 Mac Copping eyeshadow, £13 Mac Gingersnap eyeshadow, £13 Mac Dark Brew eyeshadow, £13 Mac Rose pigment, £16 Mac Buried Treasure eyeliner, £14 Bourjois Volume Glamour mascara, £8.99 Mac Whirl lip liner, £12.50 Mac Blankely lipstick, £15.50 The Balm Mary Lou Manizer highlighter shadow, £17.49

Diane Von Furstenberg printed silk top, £248

Boho Twist We love the versatility of this pretty plait and it requires minimum effort.

52 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Beauty / Hair

Get The Look Nail festival hair with our step-to-step guide

ANGEL BRAID

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1

Take one large circular section of hair from the crown and pin into a topknot to keep it out of the way.

Create a middle parting at the nape of the neck, split into two and start braiding one side. Braid the hair from underneath so the plait comes on top of the hair.

Add 1cm sections of hair into the middle of the braid each time, slowly working all the way around the head. Your braid is always going to look it’s fullest at the front of the face if you start from the back of the head.

Once you have finished your braid, tie it with an elastic band.

Start to create texture in the braid by teasing out the loops, beginning where you have tied the elastic band and going across the whole head.

Once you have your braid, undo the topknot and start teasing the hair at the crown, taking section-bysection and backcombing from the root.

Now loosely shape the crown and pin it at the nape of the neck.

When pinning the hair into place, take the grips upwards from the bottom instead of coming across from the side – it will sit better and stay in for much longer.

Now you have your braid and pinned crown, take the hair that’s left at the bottom of the neck and divide into two pieces and plait them both. Then knot all three braids at the back of the hair and finally pin them at the nape of the neck.

*

FISHTAIL PONYTAIL

* *

Give yourself a straight middle parting.

Then, take a rectangular section about 2 inches wide from the parting, coming round the side of the head.

Pin the remaining hair so it’s out of the way. Start to create a fishtail plait around the head using the rectangular section. To create a fishtail braid, take two sections of hair and add small pieces of hair into the centre of the braid. Remember to keep the fishtail tight; you can always create texture by pulling it out later. Take the fishtail to behind the ear then take it away from the scalp and work downwards.

Take the pinned hair and tong to create a wave. We recommend taking small sections of hair and wrapping around the wand in different directions to create a natural looking curl.

Now take a small section of hair from underneath the fish tail and create a new braid.

Sprinkle label.m Resurrection Style Dust, £12.95 into the first fishtail and tease out the loops.

Using a small section of hair that you have tonged, wrap it around all of the hair to create a low ponytail and pin.

*

*

label.m resurrection style dust, £12.95

3

DOUBLE KNOT

* *

Creating a middle parting from the centre of the hair.

Take a triangle section from the parting and split in half and tie a knot and repeat. Take the hair section by section and working straight back in equal sections from the parting.

When you reach the nape of the neck, stop knotting and tie the hair with an elastic band. Take both low ponytails and lightly spray with label.m Powder Pink Spray, £9.95 and leave to set for two minutes.

Remember to wear a towel so you don’t get any colour on your clothes.

*

2

label.m powder pink spray, £9.95 Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 53

Beauty / Shopping

LIP SERVICE Lancôme juicy lip shaker, £18, is a pretty pick-meup with Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil, £19 offering both balm and colour, whilst YSL Volupte Tint-in-Oil, £23.50 gives a silky finish.

Beauty

Summer’s prettiest nail colours and multi-taskers

Bulletin

GREAT HAIR NOW

Whether you’re a sun worshipper, holiday swimmer or love to experiment with colour, follow Bad Apple Creative Director, Aid Tams’ advice and finally say goodbye to damaged hair

The Swimmer: One word, CHLORINE! It’s a killer to the hair and a killer to the colour especially for blondes. A quick tip but an important one is to rinse your hair in fresh clean water before diving into the pool. After your swim, make sure to always shampoo and condition and always use a wide toothcomb on wet hair. Apply Tigi Bed Head Beach Freak, £15.50, through your hair whilst combing to help with those knots.

The Sun Worshipper: Protection spray should be your best friend on holiday. We recommend Tigi Bed Head Beach Bound, £9.50, it’s a great protection spray and perfect size to take in your beach bag as a quick pick-me-up throughout the day. Use Tigi BedHead ‘Totally Beachin’ shampoo, £11.95, to wash away residue and reveal beautiful sun-kissed strands.

The Colour Junkie: Hair colour is a brilliant thing, it hides our unwanted greys and we can change it up whenever we feel like it. Ask about Olaplex on your next visit to the salon – it’s the new treatment that gives amazing colour without the damage and our colourists swear by it. As part of your after-care, use a moisturising home treatment like Tigi S-Factor Serious Conditioner, £15.95, once or twice a week to help repair and strengthen the weakened bonds.

54 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

THE NEW EDIT The edgy younger sister of Estee Lauder, we love Kendall Jenner’s pick of The Edit Eyeshadow Palette, £36 with the perfect party shades! Our favourite picks include the Flash Illuminator, £22 a hydrating highlighting cream and the Hi Lo Stylo Contour and Highlight, £22

BRONZING ESSENTIALS

NAIL IT

Barry M Coconut Infusion Nail Paint, £4.99 to nourish nails with a gel-like finish. For a quick alternative, try Nails Inc Paint Can Spray on Polish, £10.

Freshen up

New from Moschino this fresh fragrance boasts notes of bergamot, raspberry and white patchouli.

It doesn’t smell like window cleaner. Available from House of Fraser, £35 (30ml).

Take NARS Monoï Body Glow II, £45, on your travels to hydrate and calm skin, whilst ST TROPEZ Self Tan Luxe Dry Oil, £25 offers a natural-looking colour that lasts. Add Benefit Hoola Bronzer, £23.50 to define your cheekbones and finish with BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector Luminator, £34, Harvey Nichols.

WHEN PATCHY TAN ATTACKS

Beauty / Tips Vita Liberata body blur, £29.95, House of Fraser

When it comes to tan, prevention is better than cure. Start with a full exfoliation, giving hazard areas like elbows, knees and ankles an especially thorough scrub. One of my current favourites is the Frank Original Coffee Scrub, £11.95, Selfridges.

This coffee exfoliant goes onto damp skin and literally applies as a grainy coffee. With no lathering wash to soften the blow, the result is a baby smooth skin and a lasting hydrating sheen.

But what about the times when you haven’t exfoliated, and you’re still patchy, and now there’s no time? This is when you reach for a great blurring product.

Vita Liberata have just released Body Blur, £29.95, House of Fraser, which I am absolutely obsessed with. A tinted lotion, this adds a slight colour to the skin, gives an illuminated (but not oily) finish and Frank original coffee the blurring texture helps to soften the scrub, £11.95, Selfridges appearance of any shaving knacks, tan marks or skin discolouration.

p u e k a M d a B n Whe Happens to Good People…

Illamasqua sealing gel, £8, Selfridges

We’ve all been there. Patchy tan and runny eyes. Rose Gallagher helps us solve beauty’s biggest dilemmas in record time

Smoky Eyes From Hell

Tom Ford eyeshadow quads, £64, Harvey Nichols

One of the most disheartening beauty scenarios to find yourself in, is when you have tried for what felt like an eternity to create a symmetrical, smoky eye duo and somehow it just hasn’t worked. The answer in any case is always the same; glitter. Glitter is the absolute key to softening out any smoky eye.

The simplicity of glitter is that it can be super easy to apply when you find the right formula and it instantly looks glamorous. Bobbi Brown’s Long Wear Gel Sparkle shades, £18.50, Selfridges, are brilliant for easy application. They come in a tiny pot and you can literally smudge them onto your lids with your finger as they come in a handy cream formula so no drop down. For multi-use, you’ll love Tom Ford’s eyeshadow quads £64, Harvey Nichols. These contain four eyeshadow shades and lots of them contain a pressed highshimmer glitter. Glitter reflects so much light that it will completely detract from any unsightly mistakes.

Bobbi Brown gel sparkle shades, £18.50, Selfridges

BEAUTY HACK!

The perils of foundation in the hairline...

Blondes, this one is for you.

When your hair is fair, you have to be especially careful when applying foundation around the hairline. If you accidentally find any product clumping in the baby hairs, take a clean mascara wand (the disposable ones that you find on a beauty counter will do) and drench it in make-up remover. Then, brush this gently through the hairline. This will lift any excess product from the hairs without completely ruining your hair or make-up.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 55

Still have a question? Find Rose on Instagram @MixedGemsBeauty

Runny Eyes

Don’t you hate when your make-up is perfect and your eyes start streaming? Sunny weather or not, I really find that taking an antihistamine can calm down a runny eye. And if it just won’t stop watering? Try Illamasqua’s Sealing Gel, £8, Selfridges, to create a completely waterproof liner formula.

Editor’s Pick!

Insider / Summer

THE INSIDER ISSUE 49

RETAIL | MUSIC | CULTURE | LITERATURE

Barn on the Farm Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 57

Insider / Festivals

LUNAR

2016

Where: Umberslade Estate, Tanworth-in-Arden, Warwickshire When: 3-5 June What it’s all about: This super-cool festival returns to Tanworth-in-Arden for the second year running, with a host of arts, crafts, activities and games for the whole family. Teamed with a line-up including Super Furry Animals, Badly Drawn Boy, Mercury Rev, Television, Ibibio Sound Machine, The Zombies, and a host of other very cool-sounding acts, this is one not to miss.

Ticket prices and info:

Festival Guide Words: Tara Tomes

lunarfestival.co.uk Adult/child tickets: £39/£19 per day

Birmingham (and surrounding areas) is leading the way with summer events so put your Glastonbury woes to one side and get down and dirty with our ultimate guide to the very best local festivals

BIRMINGHAM COCKTAIL WEEKEND

Where: Over 30 venues across Birmingham

city centre

When: 15-17 July What it’s all about: Taking the city by storm for the second year running, this three-day event will see participating venues concoct a new and exclusive £4 cocktail for wristband holders.

Birmingham Cocktail Weekend encourages people to venture further than their local to discover and experiment with new flavour combinations. Island Bar will be playing host to the Jim Beam Hub, where revellers can collect their wristbands and guidebooks before beginning their cocktail expedition. Venues already confirmed include Bodega, The Jekyll & Hyde, The Victoria, Malmaison, Aluna, Bar Epernay, Harvey Nichols, Hotel du Vin, Great Western Arcade’s 1847, The Botanist, The Bureau and Fleet Street Kitchen, to name a few.

Ticket prices and info: birminghamcocktailweekend.co.uk Wristbands cost: £6

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MOSELEY FOLK FESTIVAL

Where: Moseley Park, Birmingham When: 2-4 September What it’s all about: Now *this* is how you do a festival… a

park just outside of the city and no camping required. Just when you think summer is ending, Moseley Folk Festival will return for three days of folk, world and roots music. The line up this year is as impressive as ever, including The Levellers, Billy Bragg, Nizlopi’s Luke Concannon, The Coral, The Proclaimers, The Jayhawks, Benjamin Francis Leftwich, and a whole host of folk music’s finest. If that wasn’t enough, there will also be a well-stocked real ale and cider bar complemented by locally-sourced food including an organic hog roast, falafel, fish, crêpes, and award-winning Caribbean delicacies.

Ticket prices and info: moseleyfolk.co.uk Adult ticket: £42/Weekend ticket: £95

Insider / Festivals

FREE !

EVENT

COLMORE FOOD FESTIVAL

V FESTIVAL

Where: Weston Park, Staffordshire When: 20-21 August What it’s all about: Always a favourite, this

year’s V has a pretty impressive line-up including Justin Bieber, Rihanna, SIA, Faithless, David Guetta, Bastille, Tinie Tempah, Jess Glynne, Kaiser Chiefs, Little Mix, Rita Ora, Jake Bugg, Years & Years, and even a couple of old school favourites: Craig David’s TS5 and All Saints. If you fancy embracing the ‘great outdoors’ and donning those Hunters, this is a great festival to spend the weekend at. If you’re a bit of a diva, check out their pre-pitched tents and luxury camping options too!

Ticket prices and info: vfestival.com Adult ticket: £89/Weekend ticket: £165

BIRMINGHAM AND SOLIHULL JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL

Where: Multiple venues When: 15-24 July What it’s all about:

It wouldn’t be the summer without bumping into some live jazz and blues music, thanks to the newly named Birmingham and Solihull Jazz & Blues Festival. The event is happening for the 32nd year, proving that Brummies just can’t get enough of the saxophones, trumpets and trombones that grace the city for the 10-day event. Organised by Big Bear Records, one of the UK’s longest running independent record companies, the festival is a chance to experience one of the most beautiful music genres in the world. Even if you don’t plan a visit, you’ll probably bump into some performers whilst shopping in the city.

Ticket prices and info: birminghamjazzfestival.com Most performances are free

Where: Victoria Square, Birmingham When: 8-9 July What it’s all about: Run by Colmore

Business District, this festival is one for the foodies. Giving you the chance to sample tasters from some of the district’s best restaurants for just £4 (yes, £4!) you’d be crazy not to get your teeth around this event. Over 32,000 people attended last year, enjoying great food, live music, alfresco dining and sunshine (note: the latter can’t be promised). If you’re keen to sample delights from the likes of Asha’s, Purnell’s, Nosh & Quaff, and OPUS to name a few, then make sure you head down to Victoria Square this summer.

Ticket prices and info: colmorefoodfestival.com FREE event!

MADE BIRMINGHAM Where: The Rainbow, Digbeth, Birmingham When: 29-31 July What it’s all about: Taking over The Rainbow, this celebration of arts, music and culture will welcome the likes of Rudimental, Andy C, Kano, Stormzy, Dusky, Shy FX, Mike Skinner, Redlight, Tom Shorterz and Tonga to the city. This is the third year the event has taken place and the hype around it already has the city in a spin. The event has extended to three days of fun and frolics, kicking off with the MADE Food & Drink Street Party on Friday 29 July, in association with Digbeth Dining Club. The main event at The Rainbow takes place on the Saturday, concluded by the Hacienda Classical at The Rainbow Open Air Arena on Sunday. This is set to be one hell of a summer weekend in the city.

Ticket prices and info: madebirmingham.com Adult ticket: £39.50/VIP ticket: £65

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 59

Insider / Festivals

Justine Trickett, The Great Stage

DON’T MISS!

Samantha Milligan, Secret Garden Party

The Temper Trap, Primal Scream and the return of the Games Arena

SECRET GARDEN PARTY

The Best UK Festivals

Where: Abbots Ripton, Cambridgeshire, When: 21-24 July What it’s all about: Cool and very quirky, Secret Garden Party calls all creatives — expect a major level of audience participation, think flash mobs, ‘spiritual playgrounds’ and paint fights. This festival has activities to rival its music acts; with arts and poetry tents and a relaxation sanctuary, the Secret Garden Party has something for everyone.

STAY: Rent-A-Tent or splurge on a boutique safari tent, vintage camper van or yurt complete with kingsize memory foam beds and solid oak floors.

Standard yurts start from £600.

From magical boutique and quirky alternative to the biggest headliners – these are the festivals you won’t want to miss Words: Sarah Unes

Where: Heaton Park, Manchester When: 11-12 June What it’s all about: Held in a public park,

60 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Derek Bremner, Annie Mac

Parklife boasts eight stages. With sets from the likes of Years & Years to Ice Cube, there’s music to suit any taste.

Parklife brings together street food from all over the UK, as well as wandering performers and giant adult bouncy castles to keep you entertained between acts.

STAY: Camping is not permitted so go budget and book into Premier Inn Denton from £31 per night, or splurge on an apartment for the night from £160 per night (Manchester Arena Apartments)

PARKLIFE

DON’T MISS!

Jess Glynne, Bastille, Craig David and The Chemical Brothers

Daniel Watson

Insider / Festivals

Where: Over Farm, Over, Gloucester, When: 1-3 July What it’s all about: Barn on the Farm has fast gathered a cult following, having been awarded Best Independent Festival of 2014 and is best known for showcasing the most promising mix of upcoming artists. Situated in the Gloucestershire countryside, this intimate festival is held on an independent farm offering a mix of good food and music.

DON’T MISS: Clean Cut Kid, Jack Garratt and London-based duo Oh Wonder.

STAY: Make the most of a full weekend camping, free with all tickets.

BARN ON THE FARM

KENDAL CALLING

Tom Martin

Where: Lowther Deer Park, Lake District, Cumbria When: 28-31 July What it’s all about:

Giulia Spadafora, Bondax

THE ALTHORP LITERARY FESTIVAL

Where: Althorp House, Northamptonshire When: 30 June-3 July What it’s all about: This four day festival invites all book lovers to discuss literature and attend talks and special events held by some of the UK’s most distinguished authors. Complete with pop up shops and a full spa service from Elemis.

DON’T MISS: Comedian Sarah Pascoe, Anthony Horowitz and Editor-in-Chief of Harper’s Bazaar Justine Picarde talking about her bestselling biography Coco Chanel: The Legend and the Life.

STAY: Finish off your day by unwinding at the Fawsley Hotel and Spa, a home originally built for entertaining royal parties such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, from £142 a night.

Held in the lush Lake District, quirky Kendal Calling festival has held acts like Calvin Harris and Snoopdog on its stages. An Instagram lover’s dream, Kendal Calling is filled with bespoke, witty installations and art from independent artists from around the world, as well as a carefully curated range of market stalls stocking everything from Mexican jewellery to vintage sweets.

DON’T MISS: Rudimental, We Are Scientists, Kelis and The Darkness.

STAY: Book a small bell tent for two from £24.79 per night, or upgrade to an Octopad from £479.

DON’T MISS!

Stacey Osborne

Editor-in-Chief of Harper’s Bazaar Justine Picarde

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 61

Insider / Culture

A Force of Nature From The X Factor 2014 runner up (she was robbed!) to reaching international stardom with the catchiest song of 2015. This month, Fleur East is ready to bring the party to the Midlands for her headline slot at MTV Crashes Coventry I’ve visited so many countries and I’ve been to Mexico where people are singing to Sax – it just blows my mind. I couldn’t ask for anything better really. I just can’t wait to bring out another single this year. There’s so much variety on my album and a lot more sounds for people to hear. I’ve taken time to promote Sax in different countries but now I think it’s time for more music and people are hungry for something new.

I do feel nervous but I just turn it into adrenalin and get really hyped up to get on stage. I’m excited to see Sigala at the Ricoh Arena because they’ve just done a film with DJ Fresh who I’ve worked with for years. Tom Odell has an amazing voice too so I really want to hear him live.

I still introduce myself and people look at me like I’m an idiot. I don’t assume that people are going to know who I am; it’s quite funny and strange. I’m always in my own little world and I assume that they know me from school or university and then it clicks that they know my songs or they’ve watched The X Factor. I still haven’t adjusted to that but it’s nice meeting people and it’s been really positive. People always ask about coping with fame and I feel exactly the same. I know things have changed

around me but within myself I feel the same.

There are a lot of people that I’d love to collaborate with but I really like Fifth Harmony, their song has grown on me a lot. I’ve met them a few times and their voices are incredible, so it could be fun to do something with them.

A standout moment? Finding out that I was in third place, it was Adele, Justin … and then me. I remember it being such tough time in the industry. It was the last portion of the year and everyone was getting music out. Adele and Justin Bieber were at the top of the chart and I was like ‘Oh, I’m not sure how I’m going to do, I’m asking for trouble really,’ and I found out that I was third. That’s a moment that I will always remember.

I kept on telling myself that SHES it was going to happen one TV CRA RY M T day, and that’s what kept me COVEN AY! so determined. I still pinch M 27-28 myself every day because I still can’t believe that this has happened to me.

MTV Crashes Coventry is on 27-28 May 2016 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Tickets are priced at £10, buy yours from ricoharea.com

STYLE PLAYLIST Give Lemonade a rest, these are the latest albums to obsess over Words: Becky Weaver

LAURA MVULA THE DREAMING ROOM JUNE 17

Birmingham-born Laura Mvula first appeared on the music scene back in 2013 after being shortlisted for the Brits Critics’ Choice Award alongside Aluna George. Now the 30-year-old is set to release her third album, The Dreaming Room later this month. Tracks Overcome featuring Nile Rodgers and Phenomenal Woman have already received high praise from the likes of Radio One. The album also features British rapper Wretch 32. You can see Laura perform at V Festival in August.

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TOM ODELL WRONG CROWD JUNE 10

Winner of the Brits Critics’ Choice Award 2013, Tom Odell won over the hearts of the UK with his stunning debut album, Long Way Down which spent a week on the number one spot. He also recorded the official John Lewis Christmas song in 2014. Now the singer-songwriter is set to release his second album, Wrong Crowd. With new material on the way, 2016 is looking rather exciting.You can catch him at V Festival in August.

Insider / Culture

Beach Reads From holiday romances to moving and unforgettable stories, theses are the books to squeeze into your suitcase Words: Becky Weaver

ELIGIBLE £11.99, WATERSTONES

Sisters Liz and Jane leave New York and return to their family home in Cincinnati to get their parents and three sisters back on track. But all too soon things become too much for Liz and Jane when old patterns return and the sisters are berated for their single status. But everything soon changes when they meet Chip and Darcy at a BBQ. Will their newly blossomed romances leave a bitter taste in their mouths?

MY MAP OF YOU £7.99, FOYLES

PJ’S HIT LIST

OUR MAN ABOUT TOWN PJ ELLIS TAKES US THROUGH HIS SUMMER CULTURAL CALENDAR Leicester City are Premier League Champions. So anything is possible. And (to all intents and purposes) anything is possible in Brum. So, as expected, there is lots to do before the end of summer.

And mainly it involves eating, drinking and having fun.

I’ll get my fill at the Colmore Food Festival, Birmingham Cocktail Weekend and Birmingham Rum Festival in July.

I’ll top this up by checking out the newdessert lounge in Digbeth, Pirlo’s. Their Chocolate Pyramid looks pretty tempting.

Holly Wright has had a tough few years. Following the death of her mother, she’s become an expert at keeping her distance from people.

Yet when Holly receives a rather unexpected letter explaining that an aunt she has never met has left her a house on the Greek Island of Zakinthos, the walls that she built to keep people away begin to crumble. After arriving on the island, Holly begins to uncover the truth about the secret which tore her family apart.

THE BOOK OF MEMORY £14.99, WATERSTONES

Memory is an albino woman languishing in Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison, Zimbabwe, where she has been convicted of murder.

As part of her appeal, her lawyer asks her to write down what happened exactly as she remembers it, and as the death penalty is a mandatory sentence for murder, Memory finds herself writing for her life. As her story unfolds, Memory reveals that she has been tried and convicted for the murder of her adopted father, Lloyd Hendricks; but did everything happen exactly as she remembers it?

THE SECOND LOVE OF MY LIFE £7.99, WHSMITH

In the Cornish town of Taltring, everyone is famous for something and until recently, Rose was known for many things, including her devotion to her childhood sweetheart Lucas. But two years ago everything changed for Rose, now she is known for being the young woman who became a widow at 24. Although Rose knows that life must go on, she can’t bear the thought of carving a new future for herself, that is until newcomer Robert walks into her life. Can Rose allow herself the chance to love again?

I’m in a festival mood now. Therefore, I shall take in the delights of the kid-friendly Lunar Festival at Umberslade Farm Park and then rock out (aka chill with a packet of crisps) at Mostly Jazz in Moseley Park.

Back to culture, the Sound of Music will be on the wife’s agenda and I’ll be begging for some King Lear tickets at the Birmingham Rep. I’ll probably mop this cultural-gravy up with a beer at the new Peaky’s launching on St John Street and a bite to eat at the ‘new’ Nomad, the Wilderness.

PJ Ellis is Director at leading SEO and social agency, Ricemedia; and Co-Founder and Trustee of local charity, LoveBrum

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 63

Insider / Culture

Blockbuster

Summer

Words: Bethany Lee

GHOSTBUSTERS | 15 JULY When evil ghosts threaten the city – there’s only one team you can call. 30 years after the original, the Ghostbusters franchise gets a reboot with some of Hollywood’s top female names in comedy. Sassy, smart and hilarious, the new team, consisting of Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones, take on the ghouls this time around. Brainbox, Wiig, is offered a teaching position at prestigious Columbia University, but is laughed out of the job when a book she wrote claiming that ghosts are real resurfaces.

When ghosts take over Manhattan, Wiig turns out to have just the knowledge needed to take them on. With some great one-liners and nods to the old film, this is set to be a summer smash.

Whilst we can never rely on the sun to make an appearance, we can count on these big screen offerings to brighten up the coming months. With supervillains, aliens and a Mad Hatter, this summer’s set to be a wild one INDEPENDENCE DAY: RESURGENCE | 23 JUNE Two decades after mankind was almost wiped out by an alien invasion, planet Earth is at risk once again. Of course, the UN have set up an early warning system and the Earth Space Defense programme since the first attack, but will it be enough to stop the threat? Unfortunately, Colonel Steven Hiller (Will Smith) died in a explosion years ago, so we’ll have to rely on old hands Vivica A. Fox, Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman, plus newbies, Liam Hemsworth, Joey King and Maika Monroe to protect all of humanity this time around.

SUICIDE SQUAD | 5 AUGUST

THE NICE GUYS | 20 MAY It’s 1970s LA and Ryan Gosling plays an unlucky private eye who must team up with hard-hitting enforcer Russell Crowe to find a missing local girl. However, another case – a dead porn star – appears to be somehow related. Through their investigations, the pair make shocking discoveries and realise they might have just uncovered a conspiracy involving some very powerful people. Expect flamboyant shirts, classic cars and lots of laughs.

64 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

A host of supervillains are forced by a secret government agency to team up to protect the world from an unknown threat. Bear in mind, they are some of the world’s most violent, powerful and destructive individuals, so don’t expect things to go to plan. With an all-star cast, including Will Smith, Margot Robbie and Cara Delevigne, this is set to be a thrill ride. Look out for Jared Leto’s highly anticipated performance as The Joker. Leto is certainly taking the role seriously, having spent time with psychopaths to prepare, and with Will Smith claiming he didn’t feel he’d really met Leto until after filming, surely we can expect an impressive performance.

ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS | 27 MAY The sequel to 2010’s Alice in Wonderland sees Alice return to Underland to save her beloved friend the Mad Hatter, but to do this she must travel back in time. Sounds hard enough, but we’re in Underland don’t forgot, so, naturally, time is a demigod (played

by Sacha Baron Cohen), but can Alice win his favour? Expect more crazy happenings, psychedelic costumes and fantastic special effects.

Insider / Culture

&

Out About LET THERE BE LIGHT!

Dan Flavin Exhibition | 13 April - 26 June | Ikon Gallery | Free!

Birmingham’s Ikon Gallery welcomes the work of Dan Flavin. His simplistic approach makes use of coloured florescent lights to illuminate the gallery space in new and surprising ways. Flavin wanted to splash some light in the corners of rooms to encourage us to rethink their traditional associations with religious icons. He makes use of industrial materials and bright colours to immerse the viewer in his artwork.

Words: Bethany Lee

just after the First World War and how this influenced the characters to live such a cut-throat lifestyle.

PAINT THE TOWN

ALL ABOARD!

Peaky Blinders Bus Tour | 12 June, 6pm | Victoria Square | £12 | enquiries@birmingham-tours.co.uk With the huge success of Peaky Blinders, fans want to delve deeper into the world of Tommy Shelby and his family, and thanks to the Big Brum Open Top Bus tour, you can! Let your guide set the scene as you take a walk along the canal, looking out for any shady characters with razor-blade caps.

Explore where the gang originated from in Small Heath, learn more about the period

Roadshow is free, everyone is welcome, and no tickets or pre-registration is required.

Many of Britain’s leading antiques and fine arts specialists will be on hand to offer free advice and valuations to visitors, who are invited to raid their attics and bring along their family heirlooms, household treasures and car-boot sale bargains for inspection by the experts.

BRUCE’S PRICE IS RIGHT

Antiques Roadshow| 8 June | Baddesley Clinton | Free! | bbc.co.uk/antiquesroadshow It’s time to dust off your treasures for a great, free day out as BBC One’s ever-popular Sunday evening programme Antiques Roadshow comes to Baddesley Clinton on Wednesday 8 June.

The doors for Antiques Roadshow open at 9.30am and close at 4.30pm. Entry to Antiques

City of Colours Festival | 18 June | Digbeth | Free!

Started by the urban arts company of the same name, the festival aims to promote upcoming Birmingham musicians, artists and performers, as well as regenerating parts of the city. 5,000 square feet and over 120 artists, means a lot of amazing graffiti art to add a pop of colour to the area. Check out Market Hall where you can buy art, clothing, comics, zines and music from over 50 independent traders. There’ll be a variety of workshops taking place from spoken word and break dancing to screen printing and circus skills. Look out for face painting, a photo booth and retro gaming. Best of all, it’s completely free.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 65

EXPERIENCE

DON’T JUST ADMIRE YOUR STYLE ICONS. DRIVE THEM.

A Tour & Track Jaguar Experience at Castle Bromwich takes you deep inside the exhilarating world of Jaguar past and present.

Immerse yourself in the history and engineering of the iconic marque during your exclusive factory tour, then feel the adrenaline rush as you take to the track in everything from a Classic E-type to a state-of-the-art F-TYPE. So book your Classic or Modern Tour & Track Jaguar Experience today.

To book or find out more visit shop.jaguar.co.uk/experiences or call 0121 7866000/6001 and quote code SB615.

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Style

from Style Birmingham

The launch issue

Essential jackets you need in your wardrobe

Summer health kicks to carve your core Go bold with botanical prints Suit up with Gieves & Hawkes 67

D E L I V E R I N G S A R T O R I A L E XC E L L E N C E clementsandchurch.co.uk

Contents

Contents 60

Style chart

What you need now. Our pick of the essentials for summer 16

61

Me & my style

We talk sartorial style with Max Harvey from Gieves & Hawkes

64

Summer? No sweat

Resident fashion fixer James on kicking perspiration’s balls.

62

Summer style edit

Face summer with confidence thanks to these fashion upgrades

66

How to wear

Tackle botanical prints in the most masculine style

63

Gadget radar

An insiders guide to tech for the modern man

67

Off-duty luxe

Raise your jacket game with timeless staples

Editor’s letter elcome to the our brand new magazine man, bringing you more than ever before from fashion to fitness. Whether you’re looking to build the ultimate beach body, rock this season’s hottest botanical trend or marvel at our pick of gadgets, man has it covered. Now, more than ever, we’re focusing on swapping the beer belly for a sculpted six pack; with a whole page dedicated to kick-starting your journey. From vital workouts to nutritional tips and tricks, we’re here to help you get in the best shape as the heat rises this season. Our summer style guides ensure you’ll be looking your sharpest; whether you’re enjoying a laid-back day at the beach, or dressing up for an evening drink. We’ll show you how to accessorise with the latest gadgets, and give you the low down on the latest statement pieces. Speaking of fashion, we chat to Gieves and Hawkes’ Store Manager, Max Harvey, about his career in menswear and get the inside scoop on his own personal style. As if this wasn’t enough, we’ll show you what apps are a must-have for your summer travels, what books you should be reading poolside and offer our best recommendations for this season’s best blockbusters.

71

Health

The best exercises to carve out your core and strip flab

On the cover

Givenchy print denim jacket, £1,200, Harvey Nichols

W

Enjoy the issue!

Photography: Mike Raven Assistant: Simon Konaszczuk

is created by RileyRaven • rileyraven.co.uk • hello@rileyraven.co.uk

Editor-in-Chief Andrew Riley Creative Director Mike Raven Editor Elle Sixsmith

Design Simon Konaszczuk & Paige Goddard

Contributors Becky Weaver & James Tissiman 69

Style

Reading list

Perfect partner

This Emporio Armani watch with sporty design details is the perfect partner to your run. £289, T.H. Baker

A brilliant new wartime novel from award-winning author Chris Cleave, it’s an unmissable read. £10.49, WHSmith

Fresh notes Davidoff’s new scent is woody and aromatic with top notes of energising rosemary and black cocoa. £45 75ml, Boots

From bread making to stylish desk lamps – here’s what we’ll be lusting after this summer

Cool copper

Style chart

Give your colleagues some serious desk envy with this walnut and copper LED lamp. £120, Habitat

One to watch Catch James Nesbitt in Stan Lee’s addictive mystery crime drama Lucky Man series 1. £18, Tesco

Get baked

Casual classic

Add polish to your casual uniform with Gucci’s suede horsebit loafers for timeless elegance. £410, Harvey Nichols

Lifetime leather Take this stylish handmade leather suitcase on your travels – it will last you a lifetime. £1,049.95, Clements & Church

New to baking?

Try PAUL’s bread masterclass and learn their traditional French techniques. £75, PAUL, Grand Central, Birmingham

Good timing

Statement piece Up your fashion game with this statement tropical print bomber.

Wear with a white T-shirt and black jeans. £400, HUGO BOSS

70

We love this Graham & Brown arty clock and would give it pride of place in our kitchen. £44, House of Fraser

Editor’s Pick

Winning combination

This backpack from Whistles’ collaboration with Buddy fuses functionality with style. £135, Whistles

Tech

Smart Apps

Ink Hunter

Ever wanted to give your tattoo design a test run before you get inked? Now you can with Ink Hunter.

This new app transposes your design onto your body before becoming visible on your phone screen.

Activite steel

Fitness trackers are becoming increasingly popular, with many people turning to their smart phones and FitBits to track their daily exercise; the only problem is that they aren’t very nice to look at. Exclusively to John Lewis, Withings Activite Steel not only tracks your fitness levels, sleeping, swimming and running patterns, it’s also extremely attractive. It works the same way as any other fitness tracker, syncing to an app on your phone; plus it’s pretty durable, it’s water resistant up to 50 metres. Compatible with iOS 7+ and Android 4.3.3+ and the battery lasts up to eight months. John Lewis, £139.95

Gadget radar The cool tech you need in your life

Quintessentially Quintessentially gives you the low down on the most popular places in any given area. So when the plane hits down you can easily find the top hotspots.

Once

Sick of constantly swiping on Tinder? Set up your profile and someone from the Once team will handpick your matches every day at noon. If neither of you make a move, then 24 hours later you’ll be sent a new one.

Words: Becky Weaver

Panoramic pod

Budding phone photographers love nothing more than snapping a panoramic shot when they’re out and about, but it’s not always easy to capture a perfectly level shot.

That was until the Panoramic Pod came into play. This dinky, rotating tripod allows you to get the most out of your panoramic shots. Its wind up mechanism creates a beautifully steady movement, so all you have to do is set your phone to panoramic, place it on the pod and you’ll have yourself a perfect pano shot. Menkind, £9.99

Noke padlock

Noke have managed to not only design the slickest looking locks, they’ve also created ones that don’t involve you trying to fumble about with numerous keys to release it. Noke have developed the world’s first bluetooth padlock, which when paired with your phone allows you to release the lock from just a few feet away. And if your phone runs out of battery all you have to do is enter a password similar to Morse code using the button on the lock. Red5, Selfridges, £59.95

Infincase

Noted as one of the top gadgets at The Gadget Show 2016 – the Infincase works to ensure that ‘your battery is never empty and your storage is never full.’ Created by British designer Oliver Daniels at the age of 16, Infincase solves three of the most irritating problems that phone users come across on a daily basis. It charges your battery, makes sure you never run out of storage and makes the most out of your phones’ sound. Infincase, £15-£40, infincase.com

71

Style

Summer style edit The simple fashion upgrades to make now and modern staples you need to elevate your summer look Words: Becky Weaver Ray-Ban, £125, Selfridges

Reiss leather trainers, £135

Time To buy

Fellows’ monthly The Watch Sale returns on 28th June with a wide variety of vintage, modern and timeless pieces.

And there’s a lot to tempt.

Check out some of the pieces your likely to see - from classic Cartier to the slick designs of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Amvox World Chronograph, with the popularity in timepiece investment at an all time high, there’s never been moment to splash some cash.

Upgrade Your Shades

A sharp pair of sunglasses is still an essential for this time of year. You can’t go wrong with investing in a pair of Ray-Bans, and their new Clubmaster collection is a total must-have.

Pair these timeless and retro style frames with roll up jeans for classic cool. Move over James Dean.

Sharp Kicks

You can’t go wrong with a fresh pair of trainers and these leather lace-ups from Reiss are the perfect combination of sports-luxe and minimalism. For an effortless casual vibe, wear with a pair of slim fit trousers, graphic T-shirt and bomber jacket.

Rolex stainless steel SeaDweller watch, £7000-9000

Travel Essential

Get ready for those summer adventures with this new Herschel backpack. As part of Urban Outfitters Sun Shop collection, this fully-lined backpack comes with a laptop compartment, cushioned back and adjustable shoulder straps. Stand out in blue and white stripes. Team it with tropical print shorts and espadrilles, you’ll be set to begin your travels.

Herschel backpack, £110

New Tailoring Staples

1

2

72

Jaeger-lecoultre limited edition AMVOX05 World chronograph watch, £6000-8000

The devil is in the detail. Ties and pocket squares are the finishing touches that can turn an average tailored look into a slick sartorial statement. Introducing Clements & Church’s new collection of co-ordinated ties and pocket squares, perfect for the man looking for a refined style. The best thing? The Henry Ambrose ties and Barclay Ambrose silk pocket squares come in five versatile colours so you can elevate an array of looks in an instant. (1) Pocket squares, £69.95 (2) Ties, £149.95

Cartier Tank Solo watch, £1000-1500

Interview

Me & my style Max Harvey, Store Manager at Gieves & Hawkes in the Mailbox, talks style evolution and looking effortless

Gieves & Hawkes is all about premium luxury. My job is to represent the brand, set high standards and ensure the store looks beautiful. My morning starts with meetings and checking that the staff are prepared for the day. As soon as the client walks through the door, the most important thing is to make sure that they receive a luxury experience.

I enjoy meeting a variety of customers. Our clients are very knowledgeable and most of them know exactly what they want as they have been buying our suits for years. Other times, we see a man looking for his wedding suit who has never had a tailoring experience before.

I love styling those types of clients because you get to see their reaction when they have found ‘the’ wedding suit - a big moment for any man.

I’ve always worked in luxury fashion and been in the Mailbox for 14 years now.

When I saw the Gieves & Hawkes

job I knew I had to apply as it’s a Savile Row company with three royal warrants - a rare opportunity in Birmingham! I love the brand’s British heritage, it epitomises quality - the focus on the structure of the suit, tailoring and choice of fabrics.

The brand is viewed as a traditional classic but it has evolved over the last three years. I would now think that the older gentlemen could shop here with his son - that’s definitely the biggest change.

The lifestyle side of the brand is a lot more fashion-focused now and we’re industry leaders. Four years ago, I don’t think clients would have looked at us in that way.

My favourite pieces in my wardrobe are my leather jackets, I have some lovely styles. Leather is timeless and good quality jacket will last you a lifetime – it’s something that you can bring out again and again adapting to different outfits.

‘Perfect fit and focusing on quality is always really important to me’

My personal style is classic and simple. The cut and the fit of clothes talks volumes about your style, and it doesn’t have to be loud or brash to reflect good quality or high fashion. I like to be understated with the detailing on my ties and cufflinks, and always match my belt to my shoes. As you get older, you get more experienced about the finer details. I’m 40 now but I still like to look fashionable without looking like I’m trying too hard – I like to look effortless.

At the weekend, you’ll find me in a simple pair of jeans and a white T-shirt with a pair of sharp trainers. Getting the perfect fit and focusing on quality is always really important to me.

My favourite trends for S/S16 are checks and country tweeds but in a more modern variation.

I like a subtle check suit; one that you can style with a polka dot tie or a mix of patterns. Right now my key piece is a check Gieves & Hawkes jacket. You can wear it with chinos, jeans or smarten it up with a tie, shirt and waistcoat.

73

Summer

Summer?

No sweat!

Our resident style saviour James Tissiman solves the age old predicament of perspiration

‘Quality is key and summer is a time where you shouldn’t skimp’

Avoid the sheer embarassment of public perspiration...

You’ll thanks us when you no longer have to call an uber for a quick outfit change.

74

ersonally, I love the summer but what I really hate is sweating; who doesn’t? As a particularly hairy guy, heat is my sworn enemy and, as disgusting as it sounds, sweat is definitely a fashion faux pas. With wedding season looming, grey suits can lose their clean-cut charm with the addition of a sweaty pit. But how do you remain cool and sweat free during the summer?

Now there are many guys out there who don’t particularly like taking their top off and parading around the park, sometimes it’s just not necessary.

Therefore, I have come across some ‘life hacks’ for you to remain sweat free and channelling those cool beach vibes that everyone is banging on about this year. As well as a few tips on what to pack this summer to ensure you remain the king of cool.

P

The key to success First things first, why do we sweat?

Sweating, or perspiring, is a natural function that helps our body cool down when we are overheating or when we are experiencing strong emotions and stressful situations. On average, we produce up to a litre of sweat every day; however most of it evaporates as soon as it is produced so we never really notice it. But what is sweat?

Sweat is liquid containing substances such as proteins and lipids which are released from upto 5 million sweat glands located all over our body.

DID YOU KNOW? The average person has 2.6m sweat glands in their body.

We produce up to a litre of sweat every day.

About 3% of the population suffers from excessive sweating.

The most sweat glands are found on the bottom of your feet.

Hippo sweat is red! Thank god you’re not a hippo.

Vegetarians’ sweat smells better. Greens are good.

Ok, so you now know all of the science stuff - back to how we can prevent it.

It’s all down to a few factors, the most important being the fabric. Quality is key and summer is a time where you shouldn’t skimp. Good quality fabrics are so great because they’re breathable, which means they absorb moisture (aka sweat) and also have super fast drying time - you’ll be sweat free quicker than those wearing manmade fibres. Take a look at the top or shirt you are wearing now. Find the care label located on the inside seam at bottom left-hand side. If you can see 100% cotton, give yourself a firm pat on the back and keep on investing in great quality clothing. However, if it has anything like 10% cotton and 90% acrylic or polyester, then shame on you, you’re probably sweating your whatsits off.

Colour is also paramount to nailing the summer sweat free. As we all know a grey tee is a no-go, instead I suggest

Summer

‘Shame on you, you’re probably sweating your whatsits off’

Make the tedium of everyday life a breeze.

No longer will you be looking over your shoulder to check if the person behind you is as horrified as you by your unfortunate underarms.

you opt for a neutral colour palette. Black is a great cover-up for all sweat-sins but is sometimes not practical because it naturally absorbs heat, thus upping your body temperature. However, a white top is perfect for the summer because it’ll reflect light and sweat will almost go unnoticed. And don’t shy away from patterns, they’re fantastic cover-ups and it means you can up your style game.

Sweat proof styling Even though it’s great to keep up-to-date with the latest trends, sometimes you have to invest in staple pieces to tackle the summer, ones that you can whip out year upon year and will simply need a few added accessories to spruce them up. Here are a few high street essentials to make sure you get a classic, clean cut and sweat free look this summer.

Gieves and Hawkes have a great collection out right now featuring high-quality 100% linen and 100% cotton shirts, shorts and trousers.

Quite literally everything from there is made to an exceptional standard with top-quality fabrics. Shirts are of course summer packing essentials.

These two are perfect for any occasion: a simple short sleeved white shirt £145 (4) and for the more adventurous an on-trend print shirt £195 (2).

You can also find some shorts that are 100% cotton with an interesting cut and print. To ensure longevity, choose a pair of simple shorts like these Bermudas £25.99, Zara (3) to carry you through the next few years without looking totally off-trend.

Our two cents’ is free...

DO:

No cotton?

No way!

Found the shirt of your dreams?

Now take the test

And don’t just think it’s all about the outfit you wear, accessories can also keep you cool. For example, leather straps can get rather, shall we say clammy, by the end of a hot day. Therefore, opt for a NATO Strapped watch; the answer lies with Daniel Wellington £195, TH Baker (1), subtle, stylish and most of all, clam free! The laid-back designs will give you a casual sense of style that will be perfect during the height of summer.

Finally, don’t forget about the shoes. You want everything to get a good airing even your feet! A natural fibre espadrille or loose weave leather boat shoe is a great choice.

Until next time my sweaty fellas – go forth into the summer with your arms held high.

The breath-test Put the fabric over your mouth and try breathing. Can you literally breathe through the fabric? If you have to suck hard to get air, don’t buy it.

The light-test hold the garment at least a foot away from a light source.

Can you see through it? If not, don’t buy it.

2

4 Cool, calm and collected. Oh and did we mention bang on trend?

1

3

DON’T:

NEVER. EVER:

Wear 100% cotton, linen or tropical weight wool.

Buy acrylic just because it’s cheap. You’ll regret it later!

Use Antiperspirant.

C’mon guys there’s never an excuse for poor hygene.

ALWAYS:

Wear a vest to walk down New Street.

Just don’t do it, ever!

Tom Ford Oud Wood deodorant stick (75ml) £34, Harvey Nichols

75

Style

£225 Reiss blaze r,

Tropical print shirts

Work

Reiss silm-fit trousers, £110

How to wear:

1

Gucci G-Timeless watch, £620, T.H. Baker

Can’t part with your trusty blue suit? Not to worry, navy is still cool for summer. Tone down botanical prints at the office by layering under a slim-fit lightweight suit.

River Island shorts, £30

2

Introducing summer’s fresh alternative to loud graphics – here’s how to wear botanical and floral print now

Beach

Mediterranean Wedding Clements and Church oxford shoes, £549.95

Cream and white tailored separates are a timeless summer classic and a go-to for special events.

3

Bell & Ross stainless steel BR 123 Heritage wrist watch, £500-700, Fellows

Find your next timepiece at Fellows’ ‘The Watch Sale’ on 28th June!

Glashütte stainless steel Senator Karrée watch, £1800-2600, Fellows

Check out Fellows’ ‘The Watch Sale’

H&M chinos, £19.99

BOSS slim fit trousers, £129

76

Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses, £125, House of Fraser

Don’t be afraid to mix print but go for a subtle approach. Wear a botanical shirt open over a stripe T-shirt for a modern edge.

4

Peter Werth textured blazer, £169, John Lewis

New Look stripe T-shirt, £9.99

Casual

Print packs a punch to dressed-down looks, so opt for a neutral colour palette and keep styling minimal.

H by Hudson suede loafers, £110, OFFICE

Style

Off-duty luxe

Raise your jacket game with timeless staples and new season updates, from buttery soft suede to linen bombers. Here’s the outerwear that will form the foundations of your summer wardrobe

Givenchy print denim, ÂŁ1,200, Harvey Nichols

Denim is having a serious fashion moment right now. Style up any dressed-down look with this Givenchy star print jacket and pair with navy and black separates.

Photography and styling

Assistant

Mike Raven

Simon Konaszczuk 77

Style

Gieves & Hawkes reversible print, ÂŁ695

So you have an everyday bomber, now it’s time to elevate your look with added style details. We love this reversible Gieves & Hawkes jacket, go pared-back or make a statement in green chevron print.

78

Style

1

2 3

1.Diesel denim, £150, John Lewis

If you’re after a timeless classic denim jacket, then this is it. Diesel is synonymous with quality denim so rest assured, it will last you a lifetime and never go out of style.

2.River Island suede, £75 This season’s suede comes with military and utilitarian influences. Easy to style and effortlessly cool, it will refine your everyday look.

3.vvvvvvvvvvA luxury investment piece with serious style credentials, this super-soft lambskin bomber is a modern classic. We love this shade of forest green, it’s a key colour for summer.

79

Style

COS tailored cotton, ÂŁ150 Nail casual tailoring with ease in this lightweight zip-up jacket. Made from a cotton-linen mix with elastic finishes, wear it with chinos and bright white trainers for a sports-luxe edge.

80

Health

Get beach-ready abs now The best exercises to carve out your core and strip flab Hanging leg raise

1

Hanging oblique knee raise

3 sets of 20 reps on the pull-up bar Hang with your body straight and initiate the movement by flexing your hips and knees. Pull your knees up onto one side, going above a 90-degree angle at the hip.

2

Ab roller

3 sets of 10 reps Get on your hands and knees and place the ab roller in front of you. Slowly roll the ab roller forward, stretching your body into a straight position. Try to go down as far as you can without touching the floor with your body. After a few seconds pull yourself back to the starting position.

Six-pack diet: Abs are created in the gym but carved in the kitchen.

Here’s what to eat

The Fat Burner

3

Decline crunch

4

3 sets of 20 reps on the decline bench Place your hands on either side of your head but don’t lock your fingers. Begin to roll your shoulders off the bench pushing down as hard as you can. Your shoulders should come up off the bench only about four inches, and your lower back should remain on the bench.

The Ab Builder

The Stress Reducer

Chilli Peppers

We all know that chicken

An American study found

Swedish study found that

chillis are a great source

but duck is also a strong

vitamin C are a great at

and bulk up muscle.

boost your metabolism.

29g of fat per 100g.

Cheddar

Believe it or not, cheddar is a brilliant fat burner. A

it helps you drop pounds

Words: Becky Weaver

ooking for killer abs in time for the beach? Start by dropping fat.

Gone are the long hours spent on the bike; as far as cardio goes, just 20 minutes of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is what you need. This form of training infuses intervals of high-intensity exercise like skipping, with intervals of low-intensity exercise such as walking or complete rest. HIIT stimulates production of the human growth hormone, which is needed for improving your insulin sensitivity. In a nutshell, it improves muscle growth and strips belly fat faster than any other workout in half the time. But which exercises will give you cheese grater abs? The exercises below won’t be new to you but are highly effective and great if you don’t want to spend hours in the weights room. You’ll probably be done in under 30 minutes but your abs will feel like they have had an epic workout. Remember the key to getting sculpted abs is to fully contract. Going through the motions and speeding through the reps is a total waste of your time. Concentrate on squeezing and breathing and go for slow and controlled repetition. Slow and steady wins the race. Now get ready to sweat!

L

3 sets of 15 reps on the pull-up bar Hang with both arms extended and a medium grip. Legs should be straight with the pelvis rolled slightly backwards. Raise your legs until your torso makes a 90-degree angle with the legs. Breathe out as you perform this move and hold the contraction for 2 seconds.

The Metabolism Builder As hot as they may be,

of capsaicin, helping to

Duck

and turkey are popular contender, it contains

Oranges

that products rich in

reducing levels of stress

hormones in the blood.

81

Style

STYLE FOOD&DRINK CULTURE

youremail@stylebman.com

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Delivered direct to your inbox we’ll bring you exclusive content on everything from where to eat & drink, what to wear, where to be seen and what to do - as well as regular special offers and competitions. The manual is the only way for men to stay up to date in Birmingham.

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Life / Birmingham

Birmingham’s Rising Stars

The rising stars at Birmingham Young Professional of the Year were awarded in May, and ranged from backgrounds in marketing to property, promising to be great ambassadors for Birmingham. We sat down with the winners to find out more about their goals and what they love about the city.

BYPY OVERALL WINNER: Abby Corfan, Director of Marketing & Digital, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra

I think the news of my win is still sinking in, but I hope I can use this opportunity to meet new people and help raise the profile of the amazing cultural offer we have in Birmingham. My goal is to find potential new ways that the business community and arts organisations can work together.

Working in the arts can be exciting, creative and fulfilling, but young people trying to get a foot in the door need to be prepared to work really hard. I have done my fair share of flyering in the streets and lugging boxes of print around in the pouring rain! Once you get into it, working in the arts means you’re surrounded by creative people excelling in their chosen art form, and I find that really inspiring. I really enjoy being part of the team that helps the final production or concert to reach an audience. Now, as I sit in my office in the CBSO Centre today, I can hear the orchestra rehearsing downstairs and I really value having that kind of direct connection with the artistic side of an organisation. It makes all the effort and stressful moments worthwhile!

Birmingham is such a uniquely cosmopolitan city. I moved here after studying at University of Warwick and love that it has all the amenities and culture of a big city, but also feels friendly and relaxed. It’s also more affordable to live here on an arts salary than in London! People often say Brummies are self-deprecating and I think that extends to the general vibe in the city. It’s beginning to change though, we have all these great bars, restaurants and shops, whilst still maintaining a relaxed, understated atmosphere.

I like hanging out in Marmalade at Birmingham REP for their excellent flat whites and the buzzing post-show atmosphere.

I’ve recently discovered Original Patty Men in Digbeth, which is my new favourite place for burgers in the city. Now the weather is improving, it’s nice to go canal side for an Aperol spritz.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 83

Life / Birmingham I hope this award positions me as someone in Birmingham who people feel able to approach for advice or opinion regarding technology. We’re sometimes seen as unapproachable bunch, so I’m hoping to help break down some of those misconceptions! The best thing about my job is the incredible team of people that I work with, who achieve amazing things with the latest technology for our clients My advice for young professionals is focus on knowing as much as you can, work collaboratively with others and approach problem solving creatively. The pace of change in technology is only going to get faster, so strap yourself in for the ride! Birmingham is home for me and I love that it’s not over-crowded; you can easily get around the city and geographically, everywhere is accessible.

This summer, I’m looking forward to walking to the station, taking an 8 minute train journey and jetting off to Cambodia and Thailand. I like to spend my spare time in the city out with my friends or on my bike. I’m also a huge fan of electronic music and Birmingham has some amazing clubs, some of which have the best sound systems and visuals available.

TECHNOLOGY WINNER: Mike Brooman, CEO, Vanti

FINANCE WINNER: Ben Collins, Assistant Director, EY LEGAL WINNER: Russ Hill, Partner, Squire Patton Boggs

I see this award as a great launch pad for raising my profile and that of EY in the Midlands. I am enormously proud of the work we are doing so it is a great opportunity to shout about it. Three new clients actually gave me a call the day after the awards. The best thing about my job is the fascinating privilege to see the many different ways businesses in our region are driving the local economy. I don’t think my career would have progressed this far elsewhere.

I think some cities lose their identity and become impersonal as they grow, yet Birmingham has retained that local feel throughout. The area around St Philip’s Cathedral is a real hotspot at the moment. It is great to see the new bars and restaurants that have popped up there over the past couple of years, like Cosy Club, Pure, Bodega and Adams. Work is only one aspect of what we do: a big factor in staying in Birmingham for me is the community and maximising time here with my wife and son.

84 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION WINNER: Mike Lally, Associate Director, Buro Four

I consider BYPY the main professional event in the city’s annual calendar, so to be a winner is a real confidence boost! In my four years living in Birmingham, the city has gone from strength to strength and I don’t expect that to slow down. There is a real buzz here and the massive scale of development means there are many ways to get involved.

The best thing about my job is meeting new people everyday and interacting with the city’s businesses.

My advice to all young professionals is to take every opportunity that comes your way, as you never know where it may lead! There is so much opportunity here to really stand out and contribute to the city, and at the very least it is something extra to bolster your CV. So many of the young entrepreneurs I meet in Birmingham inspire me to push myself further and challenge what I do everyday. I am a massive foodie and my hotspots are Digbeth Dining Club for food, Peel and Stone for baked goods and 6/8 Kafe for the coffee.

We have some really fantastic young professionals in this city, so it was a real honour to have my name put forward as one of them. I’m hoping that the additional prestige of being chosen as a winner will help me develop further new relationships and expand my knowledge of the Birmingham and wider markets.

The first piece of advice I always give to trainees is to make as many contacts as you can early in your career. My clients vary from a huge US based global toy manufacturer to a local hotel with one director – it’s great to work with such a diverse group of people.

Outside of work, I’ve been a season ticket holder at St Andrews for 18 years so the blue boys take up a decent chunk of my weekends. For lunch and afternoons I’m big fan of Purecraft Bar and Kitchen on Waterloo Street, I love the food and beer there. For evenings, fellow bluenose Glynn Purnell’s bistro is awesome, and then on to Marco Pierre White’s in the Cube for drinks with a view.

Life / Birmingham

When I found out I was a finalist for the Aspiring Talent Award, I was very happy and excited. It’s always great to feel recognised for the hard work that you do! The award is a fantastic platform for me to inspire others and be inspired myself through the amazing people I meet. I’m in my final year at uni, so I am balancing my degree with a part-time job and extra-curricular activities such as organising events for the society I founded, the University of Birmingham Women in Finance Society.

I moved to Birmingham from London to attend university, and I’m really enjoying it here. Birmingham is such an exciting and dynamic city that has a wide variety of restaurants, award-winning shows and business activity. It has the right mix of the ‘city feel’ in places like Mailbox and Brindleyplace, but it is also not short of greenery with many gardens and parks, and of course—more canals than Venice! I try and attend as many gigs and events as possible at venues like The Institute and 02 Academy. I love a place with great food, atmosphere and cocktails, so nothing beats Turtle Bay in the city centre.

ASPIRING TALENT WINNER: Mary Agbesanwa, University of Birmingham

My job is really challenging and I have to be firm and disciplined, so this award is a great confidence boost. I moved to Birmingham from London when the HS2 headquarters relocated here recently, and i’m loving it. London is too busy—the rush, the tube; everything was getting to me after a while. Birmingham is a nice in-between.

If you want a bit of a buzz, you come into town, but if you want the quietness, you just go out a little bit and it’s so green, with so many parks. I’ve gone from HR assistant to senior in the last couple of years and I was quite nervous about the jump, so it’s great to be in such a relaxed yet varied city. I grew up in Holland, and the canals in Birmingham are a really nice reminder of that. The city has a very European feel; diverse, friendly and ever-changing. One of my favourite things to do is find a little cafe—I really like Eis Cafe on the Coventry Road—or go to my book club and have some me time.

HR, RECRUITMENT & TRAINING WINNER: Ruqia Sharif, Human Resources, HS2 Limited

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 85

Life / Travel

DESTINATION DOHA: The rising star of the Middle East Words: Andrew Riley

With extravagant 5-Star hotels, tantalising restaurants and an equal helping of Middle-Eastern authenticity; Doha delivers an unforgettable experience

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he first thing that strikes you about Doha is just how young it is. Its impressive skyline began to burgeon from its arid desert foundations little over 15 years ago, making it one of the newest cities in the world.

And it’s newness is evident everywhere. From its eclectic mix of super modern architecture to its uber cool city lights, Doha delivers a classy wow factor. And it’s certainly not afraid to project its ever-evolving sense of stylish prowess.

This exciting city offers an array of world-class five-star hotels, impeccable service and outstanding dining. Add to this chic cocktail bars, breath-taking views and a generous splash of culture and it’s easy to see why Doha is the rising star of the Middle East.

86 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Museum of Islamic Art

Life / Travel Marsa Malaz Kempinski

TIP: STYLE relax? to Need mmend o c e r at e W assage m i a a Th y Well Spa, the Sta tin Hotel Wes

Souq Waqif

WHERE TO STAY:

Nobu

You’ll be spoilt for choice as Doha offers an unashamedly grand level of luxury and service coupled with genuinely helpful, friendly and attentive staff. Think Vegas without the tackiness and add a massive dose of opulent splendour. You’ll be greeted like a touring pop star when you walk into every hotel.

The competition here is fierce, which means constantly evolving hotels offering new and exciting initiatives on what seems to be a daily basis. Every hotel has something new to offer guests, from vast indoor atriums, pool wave machines, art installations and innovative interior design.

From ultra-high tech, contemporary accommodation to traditionally regal palaces, Doha has it covered.

Here are our favourites:

SHANGRI-LA: No standing at desks waiting for your room key here. You’ll be greeted like an old friend and personally escorted to the Horizon Club Lounge for a sit down express check-in complete with very welcome refreshments.

Rooms are incredibly spacious, designed in a more traditional style and decorated in floor to ceiling walnut veneer, art details and luscious wall fabric and flooring. The massive marble and gold bathroom houses a tub you could swim in (or in our case lay and watch TV in). Floor to ceiling windows allow you to admire the panoramic view of Doha’s futuristic skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

Relax under a canopy or palm tree atop the ShangriLa’s impressive tree-lined rooftop deck and slip into the pool that’s warmed to a perfect body temperature; no need for tentative dipping here. Enjoy a mocktail at the swim-up bar and luxuriate as you soak up the sun.

There are seven restaurants to tempt. Our personal favourite was Fuego, where you can enjoy an Argentinian meal and live South American music, despite being 8,500 miles away!

THE WESTIN: From the sublime to the contemporary— The Westin is like walking on to the set of a sci-fi film. The uber modern lobby leads to rooms equipped with all the technology and gadgets a Star Trek fan could hope for. Elaborate water features meander throughout, creating a tranquil urban oasis. With its decorative entrances, bold walkways, lavish villas, lazy river and wave pool, you’ll feel a long way from the hustle and bustle of the city outside.

WE ALSO LOVED:

FOUR SEASONS: A waterfront city hotel designed to stimulate all five senses. There’s a magnificent grotto pool and extensive element-themed cocktail menu.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI: If this hotel were in Game of Thrones it would be one of the Great Houses of the Seven Kingdoms. Situated in the Pearl-Qatar, a vast, man-made island development (think Thunderbirds Tracy Island), this is definitely on our “when we return” list.

W HOTEL: Part of the renowned hotel group recognised for their individuality and popular with the fashionable set, W Doha will not disappoint fans of the famous brand.

TRAVEL FACTS AND TIPS: »» The best time to visit the country is between November and early April. »» Doha is the capital city of Qatar and means ‘roundness’ »» The Global Peace Index ranks Qatar as one of 30 most peaceful countries in the world »» Qatar will host the FIFA World Cup in 2022 for which it will build nine eco-friendly iconic stadiums. »» The Pearl-Qatar is a luxury development built on an artificial island shaped like a string of pearls and includes 8 man-made privately owned Islands which are still under construction but all sold! »» Weekends in Qatar fall on Friday and Saturday »» Qatar is a Muslim country so when in Doha, dress modestly as a sign of respect to local customs and culture. »» You can only purchase alcohol in 5 Star hotels

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 87

Life / Travel

PLACES TO EAT:

Spice Market at Hotel W

Enjoy a level of service and cuisine that will top even the most hardened food critic’s expectations.

In our four-day sojourn, we experienced global dining at its very best. Think of a cuisine and this city will deliver an expertly executed, beautifully presented array of choice, always served with a huge side of theatrics. This is dining Doha style and these are our personal picks:

FUEGO AT THE SHANG-RI-LA: Possibly the best steak we’ve ever eaten, the Argentinian-style Fuego is a carnivore’s heaven ... amazing food, city views, décor and live entertainment. What more does the intrepid traveller require?

STYLE TIP: Love Thai food? i Then head to Saba ct for the perfe Green Curry

El Faro

EL FARO AT MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI: Serves authentic tapas and paella recipes from the culinary hotspots from across the entire Iberian Peninsula. Art, including a Picassoinspired graffiti brick wall, plays a big part in this space, as does food theatrics: think dry ice, and enough for a power ballad at that.

Nobu

NOBU: Located at the Four Seasons in a tri-level architectural masterpiece, the interior design, ambience and cityscape views will take your breath away before the regionally-inspired food completes the experience.

SABAI: Situated at the Westin, tuck into authentic Thai cuisine prepared by the resident Thai chef. Eat the perfect Green Curry, served with the most amazing sticky rice.

THE W HOTEL ‘SPICE MARKET’: If we were awarding a food Oscar, the Spice Market would win ours (incidentally, it was named ‘Time Out’ Doha’s best Asian). Revel in South East Asian food by acclaimed Chef Jean-Georges Vongrichten and leave feeling that every taste-bud in your mouth has been tantalised.

88 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Spice Market at Hotel W

Life / Travel Museum of Islamic Art

Dune Bashing

STY RECOM LE ME Museu NDS: m Islamic of Art

THINGS TO DO:

GETTING THERE:

Unlike its Dubaian counterpart, Doha has retained just enough of its authentic soul to ensure you don’t feel like you’ve just been dropped into a culture-less vacuum of skyscrapers and shopping malls. There’s the impressive Museum of Islamic Art, which houses more centrepieces than the Queen’s Christmas dining table; stroll through the Souq, which is bound to leave you with a greater feeling of Eastern promise; animal interactions like falconry (they appear to keep these birds like pets, they even have a Falcon hospital), or the camel ride trek.

For the thrill seekers, try a ‘dune bash’ which literally tests the life out of a 4x4 (and you). You’ll experience extraordinary dune angles and stunning views before parking up on the shores of a private beach to swim and chill-out in the warm desert waters, while enjoying local cuisine under the shade of a Bedouin style tent.

Hop aboard a Dhow boat which takes you out on to the emerald waters. Feast upon some traditional fare while you relax and laze in the sunshine. The old-style Qatari Dhow sails out to Al Saflia Island, giving you a unforgettable opportunity to look back over this stunning jewel of a city.

The Pearl-Qatar

Museum of Islamic Art

Start your trip with the 5 star experience

destinations, but be sure to allow a few

and travel Business Class with Qatar airways’ aptly named ‘Dreamliner': the perfect accompaniment to destination Doha. Enjoy a fine champagne and wine selection and their in-flight 'dine at any time' menu. Like us, you probably won't want to get off.

Doha is a gateway to many onward

days to explore this thriving city.

Qatar Airways operates an eight times weekly service from Birmingham to Doha with prices starting at £627 return in Economy Class and £3,459 in Business Class. For more information visit: qatarairways.com or call 0330 024 0125.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 89

Life / Travel

24 Hours in Why not escape for a short break in Prague? Ed James shares his top tips on how to make the most of your trip to this stunning European city OLD TOWN SQUARE, Staroměstské Náměstí,

At the heart of Prague is the stunning Old Town Square. There’s so much to do; beautiful food, fantastic architecture and amazing street theatre. Every hour, the crowds gather there to watch the oldest working astronomical clock in the world.

The square is also home to the Church of Our Lady before Týn as well as a host of cafes, bars and restaurants. The Old Town Square is one of the two main squares in Prague—the other, Wenceslas Square, is just a five minute walk away.

CHARLES BRIDGE, Karlův most

Charles Bridge is a must-see lined with entertainers, street sellers and caricature artists. As Prague’s oldest bridge, it links the two sides of the city together, and as you cross it you’ll pass replicas of historical statues and enjoy the most stunning views of Prague’s charming buildings and the Vltava River. The bridge can get incredibly crowded during the day, but an early morning or late evening stroll should garner some truly magnificent sun-scapes.

THE FUNICULAR RAILWAY UP PETŘÍN HILL

Take the Funicular up Petřín Hill, climb the 299 steps up the Eiffel inspired Petřín Lookout Tower, and you’ll be rewarded with some amazing sights. On a clear day you can get the most picturesque views across Bohemia, then move on to exploring the mirror maze at the top of Petřín Hill. The ride to the top takes around four minutes, with the railway running every 10 and using the same tickets as Prague’s main transport system.

OLD TOWN RIKSHAW TOUR

One of the best ways to explore the Old Town is on a rickshaw. You can find them at the Old Town Square next to St Nicholas Church, and at the Republic Square in front of the Palladium shopping mall. There are two tours to chose from; the 60 minute Grand City Tour — which features popular sites including the House of the Black Madonna and Municipal House — or the 30-minute tour which whisks you around the Old Town and Josefov.

CZECH BEER MUSEUM

The Czechs love their beer. So much so that they have a museum dedicated to it where you can have your pint served to you on a train. Tours of the museum run daily at 15.30, and will give you an insight into what makes Czech beer so great. You’ll learn all about the history and making of Czech beer, before heading down to the cellars where you can sample several varieties and customise and bottle your own beer!

90 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

TRAVEL FROM BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT!

PRAGUE CASTLE Pražský hrad

The castle and cathedral are great during the day, but at night become truly breathtaking. Covering almost 70,000 m², the castle and cathedral offer some of the most spectacular architecture that Prague has to offer. There’s an option to join guided tours, or alternatively you can hire an audioguide for three hours. If you’re looking for an activity to fill an entire day, then a trip to the castle is perfect with 10 incredible sections for you to explore.

With 5 flights a week from Birmingham Airport starting from £99 return with Czech Airlines, what’s stopping you from visiting stunning Prague this summer?

Life / Dining

LOBSTER AT NOSH + QUAFF

Taking the indulgence of an American diner to much more extravagant highs, Birmingham chef Aktar Islam has got date night spot on with his latest lobster-inspired venture, Nosh + Quaff.

Combining hanging industrial lights and a short but sweet menu, it offers hearty dishes in a stunning Victorian building.

WE LOVE: The renowned chef cooks up

juicy lobster, hearty steaks and ‘blooming onion’ – decadent deep fried onion rings taken to another level. With delightful cocktails (try the Palma Violet), stunning interior and even more delightful lobster, the bar is one to visit this summer. noshandquaff.co.uk

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Summer Indulgence From decadent loco shakes in the undiscovered Eis Café, to rainbow beetroot at Birmingham’s best Michelin-starred restaurant Purnell’s, our resident foodie Ally Head discovers the dining trends we are obsessing over in 2016 N HIDDE !

GEM CITY

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LOCO SHAKES AT EIS CAFÉ

Take a short detour off bustling Coventry Road and you’ll find one of Birmingham’s best-kept secrets. For a little lunchtime indulgence, try this season’s hottest food trend in the form of Loco Milkshakes. Traditionally, the drinks are chocolate flavoured, served in jam jars with towering piles of squirty cream, Oreos, sprinkles and other chocolatey delights. The trend has seen a vast array of different toppings, from honeycomb and popcorn, to whole donuts. Coming straight from New York to your local Eis Café, this hidden gem offers a variety of sweet treats and flavour combinations. With a quirky interior and ice creams made on site, the hangout offers the ultimate summer treat.

WE LOVE: For total indulgence, try ‘The Legend’, a chocolate chip shake

topped with Nutella, cookie crumbles, chocolate chips, two krispy kremes, two waffles and homemade vanilla choc chip whipped cream. eiscafeuk.com Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 91

Life / Dining

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SPEAKEASY COCKTAIL BAR AT SUDS N DUDS

3 ARGENTINIAN CUISINE AT CAU

Offering excitement in the form of Birmingham’s newest (and only) speakeasy is Suds n Duds. Tucked away just off Broad Street and opposite Gas Street Basin, the entrance is plastered with brightly coloured vintage wallpaper and decorated with retro washing machines. Having been genuinely mistaken for a Laundromat when they first opened only a year ago, the bar is now a resounding success, buzzing with people eager to try their wide range of cocktails. Join the 5-7 50% off club and try the array of cocktails on offer. With rockand-roll music, themed alcoves and weekly specials, Birmingham’s ‘worst kept secret’ is a must-try this summer.

WE LOVE: Just ask for a ‘Full Service Wash’ to book your table, and be sure to try the Netflix & Chill, served with your own popcorn bucket and edible tickets. sudsandduds.co.uk

CAU brings Argentinian food straight from the heart of Buenos Aires to Brindleyplace. Amid much excitement, the new branch opened earlier this year in the beautiful canalside location.

WE LOVE: Pop in for a cocktail and some small starter plates, or go all out with a sumptuous steak and cornflake ice cream sundae. The dessert is a special delicacy of South America, and, what’s more, for every dessert ordered, the chain donates 20p to Action against Hunger.

The walls are decorated with idealistic blue skies and a playlist full of 90s classics. caurestaurants.com

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THE HOTTEST ARGENTINIA N IN TOWN!

TAPAS AT RICO LIBRE

For an experience that’s a little off the beaten track, head down to Digbeth and be sure to check out Rico Libre. Despite its location in what used to be a greasy spoon, the Spanish joint is now one of the most highly rated eateries in Birmingham.

WE LOVE: Beating the likes of Michelin-starred restaurants on Trip

Advisor, for authentic Spanish bites, try the patatas bravas, the garlic gambas or the pan de ajo. There is always a wide selection of house specials, meaning you’re in for a treat if you visit more than once. What’s more, it’s bring your own booze, making the trip great value for money. Refreshing and exotic, this independent gem is ideal for small dishes that don’t compromise on taste. rico-libre.co.uk 92 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Life / Dining

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MICHELIN-STARRED DINING AT PURNELL’S

Born and bred in Birmingham, local food hero Glynn Purnell serves sustainably sourced produce with a twist in his Michelin-starred eatery. Made with care, anything you try is sure to be a delight.

WE LOVE: The rainbow beetroot starter

is next level. Utilising the best of the season’s sharp and sweet beets, the dish combines a crisp beetroot mousse topped with a trio of rainbow beetroots on a horseradish crumble. The dish is a visual and culinary treat, and the restaurant a pleasure to visit. Pop in one hazy evening this summer for a glass of wine, stellar service and one of the best-tasting menus in Birmingham. purnellsrestaurant.com

GIN COCKTAILS AT 40 ST PAULS

For a truly hidden gem, head over to the Jewellery Quarter and scope out 40 St Pauls.

Hidden behind a black front door that could easily be mistaken for someone’s house, the bar offers a unique cocktail experience, with waiter service, relaxing music and a dark and sophisticated interior. Inspired by the social culture of European drinking, owner Amanjot spent two years planning the venture to ensure the perfect drinking experience. 40 St Pauls offers just that – friendly service, water on tap and absolutely beautiful gin. There is an extensive menu of over 100 different gins, home crafted tonic and more than 30 garnishes, ranging from cinnamon sticks to edible flowers.

WE LOVE: If you don’t fancy a G&T, try

one of their lavish cocktails, mixed up by their award winning barmen. The Rhubarb and Custard is sweet and sharp, served in a decadent and sophisticated cocktail glass.

Intimate yet elegant, and with plans to serve gin slushies this summer, 40 St Pauls is a must-try.

40stpauls.co.uk

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GET YOUR JUST DESSERTS!

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DESSERTS AT PIRLO’S

Decadent new dessert parlour Pirlo’s is based in the heart of Digbeth, sharing territory with fellow buzz spots OPM and the Warehouse café. It’s modelled to appear and feel like a New York loft, with high ceilings, low lights and an interior that goes heavy on wood and bronze. The place is decked out with industrial lights, exposed brickwork and statement ornaments. Their vision is to create a dessert restaurant that is both homely and high-end, focused on providing desserts for those with allergies with all the flavour of the original.

With desserts served until midnight and a high calibre of professionally trained pastry chefs, what more could you want? pirlos.co.uk

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 93

Life / Interiors

The Heart of The Home From family dinners to lavish parties with friends, kitchens have evolved into the hardest working and most sociable room of the house. Kitchen Gallery have moved into their new home at the Mailbox and now they’re ready to transform yours 94 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

THE COLOUR CATCHER If you want a vibrant touch, add a splash of colour into your kitchen. A pop of colour is a great way to make the most of the light coming into your kitchen and it’s up to you how to introduce it. If you’re feeling brave, you can focus the colour on one specific area, and painting a single wall is a great way to make a kitchen look more spacious. If you want to keep it simple, an accent colour on the units of your kitchen or something as simple as adding colourful handles to the draws can spruce up your space. You can keep your colour natural and simple too, fresh fruit works perfectly against a white background and you can even tie the fruit in with the seasons.

Life / Interiors

THE MINIMALIST Is your style all about keeping it sleek and simple?

A minimalistic design will keep your kitchen looking fresh, spacious and light. White is the perfect choice as your dominant palette colour, pair it with black, grey or a dark oak to create a fresh space.

Minimalistic designs are also incredibly versatile and you can mix and match characteristics. The key to a getting it right is to maximise your storage, and with hidden cupboards and multi- storage cabinets you can keep your streamlined surfaces clutter-free to maintain that fresh and modern look.

Less is definitely more when it comes to creating a modern kitchen but don’t be afraid to introduce shelving to add an extra dynamic element. Floating shelves are a great addition, decorate them with filled jars, books, prints and dining sets to put your stamp on your kitchen.

SIMPLE DESIGN SPEAKS VOLUMES! Walter Knoll Fabricius single seater - £3,500

HIDDEN STORAGE

Appliances take up a lot of space on kitchen work surfaces, this is where you can benefit from integrating your appliances and introducing hidden storage.

Multi-storage cabinets are a blessing in disguise quite literally, you can keep your surfaces crystal clear by hiding away all your utensils. Kitchen Gallery will work with you to make the most out of the space you have, whatever size it may be. Their modern and multi-use draws and cupboards can work with whatever style you’re going for; minimalistic, bursting with colour, or something with a touch of class.

KEY TREND FOR 2016!

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1. Magis chair one concrete base, £430, nest.co.uk 2. Harto Gustave Bar Stool, £175, nest.co.uk 3. HAY kaleido small metal tray, £19, COS 4. Habitat aerial metal ceiling light, £35, 5. Walter Knoll Rumi chair - £1,350

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Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 95

Life / Interiors

THE CLASSIC You can never go wrong with a classical design. Whether you’re looking for a chic or a warm and welcoming look, the diversity of a classic design is bound to work for you. Classic designs allow you to step away from the bold colours and streamlined designs that come with minimalistic kitchens.

Introducing greys, blues and patterns will allow you to build your kitchen around your personality. The main focus of a classic look is to create the homely feel without comprising on style. Don’t hold back from playing with storage. Expose what’s hiding in your kitchen — glass cabinets are a great way to do this. A combination of chrome and copper are a chic addition to a traditional kitchen, whilst textures such as wicker baskets are perfect for attractive looking storage.

INDUSTRIAL SITE

Going for a monochrome look? Add some glamour with splashes of gold, silver and bronze. If you feel that your kitchen is missing something, industrial materials can definitely add that extra spark that you’re looking for. Try the Robert Welch Limbrey Salt & Pepper Mill Set, £78.00.

TREND ALERT!

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Are you the life and soul of the party? Space is a vital element in your kitchen if you’re a popular host. Minimal styles work well for dinner parties and introducing darker colours can look really effective. Black, grey and wood can add a real dramatic effect to your kitchen and create a great space for you to accessorise with metallic and bronze colours. If you’re feeling creative, a chalk wall is an interesting element — display your wine selection, shopping list, calendar or even the menu selection for your guests. An island is also a core unit to add to your kitchen. Add some bar stools to create the perfect cocktail area. Space is vital for an entertainers’ kitchen, so add in some secret storage units to keep your kitchen surfaces clutter-free.

Andoo dining table - Extendable solid nutwood table with sapwood inclusions - £7,500 Choosing the right shape and size of dining table can make or break your space! Consider things such as how often your planning to entertain and the shape of the space you’re trying to fill before buying.

DID YOU KNOW?

Life / Interiors

Life / Interior

The Green House Embrace the great outdoors with a simplistic modern edge – think splashes of botanical prints, industrial touches and natural tones

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air, £129.9

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Homese

Botanical Style, by Selina Lake, photography by Rachel Whiting, published

by Ryland Peters & Small, £19.99

Urban Outfitters wall art, £20 Marks & Spencer cushion, £25

Primark print cushion, £5, The Fort Shopping Park

French Connection coffee table, £385

Zara Home lamp, £79.99

H&M cushion cover, £7.99

STYLE TIP

READER OFFER

Natural botanical interiors feature a gentle mix of textures. Wood and wicker work in harmony with whitepainted furniture for a clean, calm style that gives a nod to Scandinavian design.

Botanical Style, by Selina Lake, photography by Rachel Whiting, published

by Ryland Peters & Small, £19.99 Get Botanical Style for the special price of £14.99 including postage & packaging (rrp£19.99) by telephoning Macmillan Direct on 01256 302 699 and quoting GI5

IKEA potted palm, £39

H&M stripe blanket, £19.99

Homesense wicker basket, £9.99 Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 97

SUMMER OF SPORT #RWBsport

WATCH ON

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GIANT SCREEN

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LOCATIONS TO CHOOSE FROM WHETHER YOU’RE WATCHING WITH FAMILY, WITH FRIENDS OR YOU WANT AN EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE, YOU CAN CATCH ALL THE SPORTING ACTION THIS SUMMER ON OUR BIG, BIG SCREEN. WATCH FROM THE TERRACES OF THE WORLD BAR AND HIGH LINE, OUTDOORS ON PENDIGO WAY OR INSIDE IN STYLE AT OUR OVER-18S SPORTS BAR AT THE GENTING INTERNATIONAL CASINO FIND OUR MORE AT WWW.RESORTSWORLDBIRMINGHAM.CO.UK/SUMMEROFSPORT

Life / Leisure

Summer Loving Next S/S16

Whether you’re looking to wile away balmy evenings with a Prosecco al fresco or shop your holiday wardrobe, there’s plenty to keep you entertained at Resorts World Birmingham

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OUR K IC TOP P 1

he new home of outlet shopping in the West Midlands is the destination to eat, relax and shop to your heart’s content. Expect top high-street names like H&M Outlet, Gap Outlet, Next Outlet and Nike Factory Store with discounts of up to 70% on offer – it’s perfect for shopping your new season wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Only a stone’s throw from the Genting Arena, start the party at one of 18 bars and restaurants or end it at Europe’s first Genting International Casino. Dine at favourites like Las Iguanas and Nando’s or delve into haute cuisine and the theatre of the chef ’s table at The Sky Bar. Locally renowned chef Andy Waters brings his unique spin on classic British food at his award-winning new Waters’ Restaurant, and The World Bar serves up exciting street food inspired dishes.

A TOUCH OF LUXE

Make a stay of it at the gorgeous Genting hotel where sumptuous rooms and chic décor provide the perfect environment for a relaxing stay. We recommend paying a visit to the Santai Spa, with its relaxing pool, an outdoor hot tub terrace with picture-perfect views and a selection of experience showers, salt cave, sauna and heated loungers; it’s an indulgent haven for some much needed pampering.

They offer an extensive treatment menu to explore and not forgetting the importance of inner wellness, they serve up freshly-made healthy juice blends too.

CATCH A BLOCKBUSTER

The latest releases are screened at the Resort’s shiny new state-of-the-art 11 screen Cineworld Cinema with IMAX. From popcorn to Prosecco, just across the way from the cinema you’ll find Bottega Prosecco Bar, voted by LUX 2016 Hospitality Awards as the best Italian Restaurant in Birmingham, they serve up a glittering list of Proseccos and Grapas that we can’t wait to work our way through.

SUMMER DINING

This summer the Resort welcomes not only al fresco lakeside dining, but also a spectacular Summer of Sport.

Why not enjoy the sunshine on the terrace at The World Bar or High Line and catch all the action at the same time? From mixed doubles (tennis paired with strawberries and cream) to game, set and match (beer, burgers and the perfect seat, with the perfect view) you can look forward to a season of sporting fun and summer discounts at Resorts World Birmingham.

Visit resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk/summerofsport to find out more or check out the hashtag #RWBsport on social media.

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(1) Relax at the Santai Spa with outdoor hot tub terrace and therapeutic salt cave (2) Enjoy picture-perfect views of the Resort (3) Enjoy the sunshine and dine al fresco (4) Discover haute cuisine at the award-winning new Waters’ Restaurant.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 99

Life / Dining

Where To Dine In The Sunshine Words: Becky Weaver

We’re all starting to feel a bit brighter now that summer’s finally starting to break through the clouds, which is good news for us because it’s one step closer to al fresco dining

BEST FOR THE COOL CROWD MPW STEAKHOUSE BAR & GRILL The stylish Steakhouse Bar & Grill is the perfect way to soak up not only the sun, but also the incredible Birmingham skyline. Situated at the top of The Cube, the terrace provides some of the best views that Birmingham has to offer. So whether you want to dine al fresco, or sip on a crisp glass of Prosecco, you’ll certainly be able to make the most of the weather. MPW’s also offers afternoon tea. At £29.99 per person, it’s perfect to enjoy on the terrace for a special occasion if the weather’s kind.

BEST FOR PRE-THEATRE DINING MARMALADE Hopping over the canal from Brindley Place to the REP lies Marmalade. Marmalade has a number of tables outside the entrance and is a great place to escape the major hustle and bustle of the city centre. Marmalade offer some really hearty and delicate dishes that are perfect for enjoying in the summer sun.

BEST FOR

BEST FOR DATES BANK Hidden away in Brindley Place, Bank offers pleasant views over the canal, looking out towards the Barclaycard Arena. If bistro food and a sophisticated atmosphere is what you’re after, then look no further. The front of Bank reminds me of the ‘First Dates’ restaurant in London, and I’m guessing it’s a popular venue in the city for first dates – there’s even a suave champagne bar.

100 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

EVERYONE

PICCOLINO Located next to the Ikon Gallery in Brindley Place, Piccolino wins in my humble opinion when it comes to al fresco dining for one simple reason - the outdoor terrace is covered, so come rain or shine you can sit outside and enjoy your meal. Italian food is Piccolino’s speciality; serving both modern and traditional Italian dishes, there’s bound to be something that you can enjoy al fresco.

Summer at the Mailbox

Life / Summer

Summer is set to be an exciting season at the Mailbox, with a specially curated programme of entertainment alongside highly anticipated openings he Mailbox will be alive with the sound of jazz and blues this summer, as the Birmingham International Jazz Festival takes place in the city from 18th – 27th July.

Featuring a range of talented performers from around the world, visitors can enjoy the festival feeling for free with performances each day in the marquee in the canalside area of the Mailbox.

The Mailbox’s canalside location is the ideal spot to enjoy some al fresco dining in the city, with a range of bars and restaurants to tantalise your taste buds. Large terraces and outdoor seating provide the perfect place to catch some summer sun, whilst enjoying a choice of seasonal menus and refreshing drinks.

Côte Restaurant

Tucked away in the corner, surrounded by lush greenery, Côte Restaurant’s outdoor seating area is one of the most impressive al fresco dining terraces in Birmingham.

Secluded from passing traffic but still in eyeshot of the canal, it’s the perfect location for a meal in the sun. Or, for a taste of Spain, why not try Bar Estilo? Be transported straight to the sunny streets of Barcelona as you enjoy the Estilo Paella out on the terrace – a spiced up version of the Spanish classic complete with chorizo,

chicken, prawns, mussels and squid.

With so many cuisines to try and an enviable choice of sun-soaked and spacious terraces, the Mailbox has your summer dining covered.

With luxurious seating and finishes, a glass sky-lit roof and sleek store frontages, the Urban Room forms the centrepiece of the Mailbox experience.

Urban Room The perfect place to relax and unwind with a coffee during a shopping trip, Mailbox is Birmingham’s premier the ideal spot for a business meeting, or great shopping and lifestyle destination for a quick lunch break, by day, the Urban home to an exciting collection of Room is the hub of the new-look Mailbox. designer and luxury brands.

After hours, the Urban Room is often Now open at the Mailbox, head transformed into the setting for a number to Tommy Hilfiger for Americanof exciting Mailbox events. Giving cool style with a refreshing twist. people access to experts from some of The Mailbox store showcases a the Mailbox’s luxury brands, as well as wide selection of Tommy Hilfiger leading industry professionals across beauty collections, including men’s and and fashion, the Mailbox Sessions reflect women’s sportswear, men’s tailoring, the very best of the Mailbox. From live footwear and accessories. demonstrations and interactive Q&A And, with up to three hours sessions, to shopping events, fashion complimentary parking at participating showcases and complimentary treats within retailers, and a brand new contactless the stunning Urban Room space, signing payment system in place, there’s never up to the free Mailbox newsletter ensures been a better time to shop at the Mailbox. you have priority access to the latest events.

If you’re looking for a wardrobe refresh this summer, the Mailbox has just the To keep up to date with the latest Mailbox inspiration you need to look and feel news, offers and events, sign up to the Mailbox your best. Whether it’s womenswear, newsletter at mailboxlife.com , or join the menswear, shoes or accessories, the conversation on social media, @MailboxLife.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 101

Tommy Hilfiger SS/16

T

Women / The Edit

INGREDIENTS: • 2 tuna steaks, about 5cm/2 inches thick • 2 tbsp raisins • 2 tbsp pine nuts • 4 tbsp dry white wine • 4 tbsp fish stock • 250g/9oz. coarse Italian bread, crusts removed, cut into 2.5cm cubes • 3 anchovy fillets, mashed • 4 tbsp fennel fronds, coarsely chopped • 1 tbsp plus 1 teaspoon salted capers, drained and rinsed • a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg • Italian ‘00’ plain flour, for dredging • a pinch of crushed dried chilli • 400g cherry tomatoes, quartered • 400g canned chopped tomatoes • 100g Gaeta olives, coarsely chopped

Sicilian Stuffed Tuna With Cherry Tomato Sauce R READER! OFFE

Forget tuna mayo, Ursula Ferrigno’s flavoursome Sicilian favourite has Arabian influences and will look beautiful on your dining table

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Flavours of Sicily, by Ursula Ferrigno, photography by David Munns, published

by Ryland Peters & Small, £18.99 Flavours of Sicily is available for Style Birmingham readers at the special price of £12.99 including postage & packaging (rrp£18.99) by telephoning Macmillan Direct on 01256 302 699 and quoting GK4 102 | Style Birmingham | Summer2016

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Cut the tuna steaks in half crosswise, then cut each horizontally into four slices measuring 13 x 7.5 cm/5 x 3 inches. Cover each slice with clingfilm and gently pound the slices until they are 3 mm thick. Cover and refrigerate.

Soak the raisins in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain. In a small frying pan, toast the pine nuts, shaking the pan until lightly browned for 2 minutes.

Pour the wine and fish stock into a shallow dish, add the bread and soak for about 10 minutes. Gently squeeze the bread almost dry. Finely chop the bread and transfer to a bowl. Gently stir in twothirds of the raisins, pine nuts and anchovy fillets, half the fennel fronds and capers, and the nutmeg.

Season to taste.

Lay the tuna slices on the work surface and season.

Spoon 1 tablespoon of the filling into the centre of each slice and roll up like a cigar, folding the sides in as you go. Secure each roll with a wooden cocktail

stick. Pour olive oil into a frying pan to a depth of 1 cm. Lightly dredge the tuna rolls with flour. Fry four of the rolls at a time over moderately high heat until golden brown, about 2 minutes each side, then transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining rolls.

Wipe out the pan with paper towels.

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In the same pan heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil, add the chilli, the remaining anchovy fillets and capers, and cook for 30 seconds. Add the cherry tomatoes and canned tomatoes and cook over low heat until thickened, about 15 minutes. Stir in the olives, 1 tablespoon of the fennel fronds and the remaining pine nuts and raisins.

Add the tuna rolls to the sauce. Cover and simmer over a low heat, turning the rolls a few times until heated through, about 3 minutes. Transfer the rolls to serving plates, remove the cocktail sticks/ toothpicks and spoon the sauce on top. Garnish with the remaining fennel fronds and serve.

Life / Offer

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Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 103

Life / Health

Tennis - Serving Up The Perfect Workout As Birmingham gets ready to welcome the world’s top female players for the Aegon Classic, we asked Leyla Ogan, Racquets Manager at Edgbaston Priory Club to give us five good reasons to pick up a tennis racquet.

1. TENNIS IS A BRILLIANT WORKOUT FOR THE ENTIRE BODY. All that running, jumping and crouching gives the lower body a good workout whilst the hitting keeps your trunk, shoulders and upper back toned.

Tennis also involves racing around the court to return serves and volleys. Depending on the length and speed of a match you could run the equivalent of three to five miles.

So playing tennis tones the whole body and develops speed and endurance. What more could you ask for from a work out?

3. TENNIS KEEPS YOU POSITIVE

Join the club!

Edgbaston Priory Club offers Cardio Tennis sessions as well Tennis Tuesday sessions for women only looking to get back onto court.

With over 30 courts, including eight indoor courts, tennis is a sport you can enjoy all year round.

For more information on tennis courses or membership of Edgbaston Priory Club visit edgbastonpriory.com or call 0121 440 2492.

104 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

Tennis players are said to be more optimistic, have greater self-esteem and are less anxious, angry and depressed than people who play other sports or lead inactive lifestyles.

Edgbaston Priory Club is offering 50% off the entrance fee.

Just quote ‘StyleBirmingham’

2. TENNIS BURNS OFF LOADS OF CALORIES On average, an amateur player will burn around 600 calories in one hour on court.

If you’re really looking to lose weight then sign up for Cardio Tennis – tennis inspired workouts!

You don’t need to know how to play tennis to have lots of fun, give your heart a good workout and burn off lots calories in the process

4. TENNIS EXERCISES THE GREY MATTER Tennis keeps your mind agile because you need to stay focused on the ball, judge which balls to return or leave and decide in a split second which shot to make.

We’ve all heard the commentators say ‘It’s all in the mind’. Well that’s as true for an amateur as it is for a professional.

You have to have a strategy to beat your opponents and that’s all part of the fun of playing doubles!

5. TENNIS IMPROVES YOUR SOCIAL LIFE Learning to play tennis is a great way to make long-lasting friendships. It’s quite common for people who meet through tennis to go on holidays together and I’ve even known people to meet the love of their lives on court!

So whether you’re an absolute beginner or just a little bit rusty then there are courses out there just for you and brilliant coaches just waiting to get you hooked on the game.

Life / Health

Kelly Ravenscroft

Health Kick

Words: Becky Weaver

The fun alternative to Tough Mudder, easy ways to burn calories and the drinks with surprising health benefits ADRENALINE RUSH

Fancy taking on an assault course with a few thrilling challenges thrown in for good measure? The Adrenaline Rush is no easy task and with more than 30 tasks to choose from you can expect to tackle slides, a gunge tank, a ball pit and much more – you’ll get pretty muddy along the way too. The Adrenaline Rush will be at Senneleys Park June 4, entry prices, £35-£60. Visit theadrenalinerush.com.

BOOTYBARRE

You may not be familiar with BootyBarre, but if you’re a pilates fan you’re guaranteed to love it. This energetic workout blends together pilates, yoga, ballet and dance, focusing on your flexibility and balance. Classes run at Pilates Lounge, High Street, Sutton Coldfield. Prices start at £10 for one class, book now at pilateslounge.co.uk

THE GOOD FOOD SHOW SUMMER

A heaven for food lovers everywhere, the Good Food Show Summer is heading back to Birmingham’s NEC from June 16-19. If you’re on the hunt for new healthy summer dishes, come and stock up your cupboards with local produce and catch live demonstrations from Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.

Tickets from £24.50-£25.50, bbcgoodfoodshowsummer.com

MAKE THE SWAP

Just by switching up your go-to drink you can keep yourself in tiptop shape ready for summer

SIMPLE CHANGES FOR MAXIMUM RESULTS You don't have to train like an athlete to look like one, promises health and fitness expert, Kelly Ravenscroft (keepfitwithkelly.com). With the Olympics being on the horizon thoughts turn to our own fitness, but with some small tweaks you can make big improvements to your health and fitness levels without spending hours slogging it out in the gym.

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Interval training is proven to be great for burning fat, improving metabolism and increasing personal fitness levels. Just short bursts of 10 minutes a day is all that is needed.

Grab a stopwatch and do something just as simple as sprinting for 40 seconds and then resting for 20 seconds – repeating this 10 times gives you a very efficient cardio blast.

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Staying away from fizzy drinks and aiming for 2-3 litres of water a day are going to improve your energy, enhance your workouts and boost your fat loss.

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Get your breakfast right! Ditch the toast and cereal, which will set you on a hormone rollercoaster leaving you starving hungry by 10am.

Instead, opt for a breakfast high in protein and good fats – eggs and avocado are a favourite.

COFFEE

GREEN TEA

ICE WATER

Swapping energy drinks for coffee can do wonders for your health. Studies have shown that drinking two to three cups of black coffee pre-workout can increase your energy levels, reduce the risk of future cardiovascular diseases and reduce the risks of type-2 diabetes.

Used as a Chinese remedy for centuries, green tea is up there with the most natural antioxidants - plus it contains zero calories, bonus!

Numerous studies over the years have found that drinking up to four cups of green tea a day can aid weight loss and lower both blood pressure and cholesterol.

Something as simple as adding ice to your glass of water can help your body to burn extra calories. Cold drinks help to rev up your metabolism and increase your weight loss.

Try filling up a litre bottle of water and placing it on your desk at work or at home to melt the calories away.

Summer 2016 | Style Birmingham | 105

Life / Win

WIN!

A Girls Day Out For You And A Friend At Harvey Nichols

We’ve teamed up with the city’s most luxurious store to offer you and a friend a day of pure indulgence. You will each receive a pamper session that includes a La Mer facial, a Hershesons blow-dry, a gel manicure and pedicure by Shavata, and a make-up session.

You’ll even receive a glass of Champagne to toast your new look. Following your pampering session, relax in the Harvey Nichols Restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal for two with drinks (up to the value of £100). The restaurant at the luxury Mailbox store is renowned for trail blazing the trend for premium casual dining in the city. With Head Chef Mark Walsh at the helm, diners can enjoy a delicious range of starters, mains and desserts that use the best seasonal ingredients, many locally sourced.

For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: Julia Roberts and Cameron Diaz starred in the 1997 film, My Best Friend’s ...?

A: Wedding B: Christening C: Day trip What film is this?

To enter, just visit stylebham.com/win Terms and Conditions: Entrants need to be aged 18 and over. One winner will be drawn at random from all valid entries received. The prize must be taken between July 1 2016 and August 31 2016 (subject to availability) with the winner booking directly with Harvey Nichols. Prize includes a beauty package worth £150 each as stated and a meal for two at the Harvey Nichols Restaurant in Birmingham with wine up to the value of £100. There is no cash alternative. Full Harvey Nichols terms: harveynichols. com/information/policies/competition-terms/. Competition closes June 30 2016. The winner will be contacted via email. The winner has five working days to claim their prize. No response after this time will result in another winner being selected. By entering this competition you agree for us to share your information with Harvey Nichols.

106 | Style Birmingham | Summer 2016

H A RV E Y N IC HOL S C A ST L E F I N E A RT

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ARMA NI COLLEZIONI DA N I EL FOOT W E A R

L.K.BENNETT

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NICKY CLARKE

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BOSS

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C A LV I N K L E I N U N D E RW E A R

G I E V E S & H AW K E S TOMMY HILFIGER

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K I TCH E N GA L L E RY TONI & GUY

More exciting brands opening soon. # lifemadebeautiful