Aspire Lifestyle Issue 38

K.J. Apa

STYLE

28 CASBETH a fashion label weaving the past into tomorrow’s luxury

34 THE FUTURE OF FIT G-Star’s anatomic denim redefines movement

36 LACUNA SEASON ONE 2026 Pichulik’s must-have collection

40 TIME GOES TO THE DOGS Hermès Arceau Jour de Casting

44 THE ART OF RESISTANCE Kilmany-Jo Liversage

What is it that drives someone to greatness? To take on the unknown, venture into the unseen, and dare all? This is the spirit that gave birth to TUDOR. This is the spirit embodied by every TUDOR Watch. Including the TUDOR Black Bay 58, a 39mm diameter stainless steel diving watch with TUDOR’s signature burgundy color and Master Chronometer certi cation by METAS. Some are born to follow. Others are born to dare.

BLACK BAY 58

Shahnaz-Cola Wrensch

A PERFECT SUMMER DAY IS WHEN THE SUN IS SHINING, THE BREEZE IS BLOWING AND THE BIRDS ARE SINGING. – JAMES DENT

Don’t miss out. Find the perfect present in our gift guide and start your wish list today. See more on page 121.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Summer is here and with it comes the joy of long, sunlit days and the indulgent pleasures that make life feel luxurious. In this Festive Summer issue of Aspire Lifestyle , we celebrate style, culture and wellness that let you shine from the inside out.

Our cover story features Shahnaz Cola-Wrensch, entrepreneur, beauty expert and wellness enthusiast, who shares her journey to creating Lumi Glo and building a community where true radiance starts with selfcare and self-acceptance. From glowing skin to glowing confidence, she embodies the spirit of this season.

Also in this issue, chef Ivor Jones reflects on his remarkable career and influence on South Africa’s culinary landscape, while our style pages highlight local talent Casbeth, contemporary favourites like G-Star and the playful sophistication of Hermès’ Arceau Jour de Casting watch.

And Travel journalist Jared Ruttenberg takes us along the dramatic cliffs of England’s Jurassic Coast, where history, nature and coastal beauty meet in perfect harmony.

You do not want to miss our Gift Guide Wish List, packed with must-have presents to delight everyone on your list, alongside curated inspirations for day trips, wellness and the little luxuries that make summer shine.

ARIANA GRANDE IN SWAROVSKI

THE TEAM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lauren Zuidema

ART DIRECTOR

Bianca-Leigh Nagel

PROOFREADER

Margy Beves-Gibson

COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES

vann@aspirelifestyle.co.za

CONTRIBUTORS

Jared Ruttenberg, Lauren Zuidema, Morgan Stewart

Robert Voerman, Robyn Alexander

COVER FEATURE

Cover star Shahnaz Cola-Wrensch

Photographer Tegan Smith

Cover hair + make-up Raine Tauber

Feature hair stylist Kelly Paitaki

Feature stylist Natalie Schoeman

Fashion designer Kat van Duinen

IMAGES

Supplied, FreePik, Pexel, Unsplash

DISTRIBUTION

Community Life Media, On The Dot

PUBLISHED BY

Aspire Lifestyle (Pty) Ltd

No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent and permission of the publisher and copyright owners as featured. DISCLAIMER All information, dates and prices were correct at the time of print. We cannot be held liable for any changes thereafter.

POWERED BY NATURE CRAFTED FOR YOU

Style edit

FOR HER

Broderie twist bubble sleeve maxi dress / Woolworths / R1 699

Catalina necklace Mango / R499

Harley crescent sling bag / Rubi / Superbalist / R349

Luella printed one piece / Poetry R1 199

Perfect pairing cotton T-shirt Woolworths R199

Sicily sandals Poetry / R1 099

Straw headband Poetry R199

Style edit

FOR HIM

Vintage polo / Sealand / R795

Arizona faded khaki Birkenstock / R1 724

Aviator Reverse Gold Ray-Ban sunglasses / R3 200

Beau Australian cotton beach towel / Country Road / R999

Embroidery inset cotton T-shirt Woolworths / R349

Linen blend trousers / H&M / R529

Royal blue mermaid swim shorts Breazies / R595

Casbeth WEAVING THE PAST INTO TOMORROW’S LUXURY

Founded in Pretoria by visionary designer Casbeth Tshegofatso Marobane, CASBETH is more than a fashion label, it is a dialogue between past and present. The brand elegantly bridges heritage and contemporary luxury, weaving narratives of identity, memory and culture into each meticulously handcrafted piece. From intricate beadwork to pleated textures and upcycled materials, every creation celebrates artisanal craftsmanship while embracing sustainability. Casbeth’s designs honour cultural stories through refined silhouettes and tactile detail, fashioning garments that are timeless yet unmistakably forward-thinking.

COLLECTION 1: CULTURAL STUDIES

WHERE TRADITION INSPIRES TRANSFORMATION

‘Cultural Studies’ is a meditation on heritage as a guide for sustainable fashion. Deeply rooted in South African culture, the collection imagines how ancestral practices can inform contemporary design while nurturing community and identity. Casbeth draws on the rich language of communal garment exchange and traditional adornments, cowry shells, beadwork, red ochre and brass rings, to articulate a vision of sustainability that transcends materials, embracing continuity of culture itself. Discarded and donated fabrics, from curtains and second-hand clothing to aluminium blinds and mosaic glass o cuts, are transformed into wearable art. Each piece flows with the rhythm of ocean waves, a nod to the sea’s enduring spiritual and cultural significance. In this collection, sustainability becomes storytelling; the past is not discarded but reimagined, cherished and reworn.

COLLECTION 2: SIREN

THE OCEAN AS MUSE, RITUAL AND HEALER

‘Siren’ celebrates the mystical energy of the ocean, a symbol of healing, transformation and spiritual flow. Drawing inspiration from ancestral bathing rituals – where sea water is collected to cleanse negative energy and invite good fortune – the collection channels the sacred relationship between culture, water and renewal. Across South African communities, including the Pedi, Nguni and Khoi-San, the ocean is revered as a space of purification and ancestral connection. Casbeth translates this spiritual reverence into garments with textured fabrics, swirled pleats and handstitched details that mimic the movement of water. Each piece embodies renewal and cultural memory, transforming ritual into wearable art. Siren is not just a collection, it is an ode to the ocean as a vessel of spiritual and cultural restoration, celebrating its power to heal, connect and inspire.

HIGHLIGHTS AND PRESS

n Redress Design Award 2025 Finalist

n Showcased at HONG KONG CENTRESTAGE

n Featured in Vogue Hong Kong, September 2025

n Recognised by TWYG magazine for innovative storytelling through upcycled materials

As Casbeth continues to fuse heritage, artistry and sustainability, her work reminds us that fashion can be both deeply personal and profoundly cultural. Each collection is a celebration of identity, memory and the stories that connect us across generations. With her meticulous craftsmanship and visionary approach, we can only imagine the innovative worlds she will create next.

The future of Casbeth promises to be as luminous and boundary-defying as the collections she so masterfully brings to life and we cannot wait to see where her creative journey takes us. Follow Casbeth on Instagram @casbetho cialaccount

THE FUTURE OF

G-Star’s anatomic denim redefines movement. When anatomy becomes art, denim becomes sculpture.

Since first introducing the world to anatomically designed jeans in 1996, G-STAR RAW has been rewriting the rules of denim. Rather than cutting fabric to fit the body, the brand has always sculpted denim around it, a radical idea that reshaped the way the world thinks about fit. Today, that legacy continues with the arrival of Anatomic Denim, the next chapter in G-STAR’s story of threedimensional innovation.

Engineered to move as naturally as you do, Anatomic Denim celebrates form, freedom and motion. Every curve, seam, dart and panel is strategically placed to follow the body’s natural lines, creating a silhouette as functional as it is beautiful. It’s a masterclass in design where structure meets flow and where denim becomes a second skin.

This evolution introduces two distinct pillars within the G-STAR universe: Anatomic Denim, representing the pinnacle of 3D engineering, sculpted for movement and precision; and ClassiQ Denim, embodying timeless craftsmanship and authentic cuts that pay homage to the brand’s heritage. Together, they define a new era for denim, one that honours the past while pushing boldly into the future.

ANATOMY IN MOTION

3D design is woven into G-STAR’s DNA. It began with the iconic Elwood, a revolutionary design featuring articulated knees, curved seams and masterful panel construction. With Anatomic Denim, these defining details evolve further, amplifying movement, flexibility and expression.

The new collection revisits the classics that started it all, the Elwood and the Arc, while introducing contemporary silhouettes like the Kitoh Relaxed Tapered, Kitoh Slim and Contour Regular. Each piece is meticulously designed to adapt with the wearer, merging comfort with sculptural precision.

At the heart of this local story is Jo-Anne Strauss – broadcaster, entrepreneur and enduring style icon – who fronts the campaign in a series of powerful, elegant portraits. Photographed wearing key looks from the Anatomic Denim range, Jo-Anne embodies the perfect balance of confidence, movement and grace. Her presence brings the collection’s design story full circle, merging global innovation with local authenticity.

With Anatomic Denim, G-STAR is not just designing jeans, it’s redefining how denim moves, feels and lives on the body.

PICHULIK LACUNA SEASON ONE 2026

THE MUST-HAVE COLLECTION

PICHULIK is back and Season One 2026 is nothing short of spellbinding. Lacuna –meaning gap, pause or threshold – is a collection that turns the power of the pause into a statement. These are not merely accessories, they are modern-day relics, charged with symbolism, story and intention.

The collection draws on mythology, nature and ancient symbolism to create jewellery and accessories that feel both timeless and utterly now. Circular forms, like the polished brass conch in the Lacuna necklace and Conch belt, meet square-cut gemstones arranged in mosaic-like patterns in the Ravenna Choker and Kimiya Earrings. The e ect? A stunning alchemy of opposites, which is impossible to ignore.

A standout motif is the pomegranate, a symbol of abundance and renewal spanning centuries and cultures. It appears in charms and Sephos earrings, adding a rich layer of meaning to these must-have pieces.

Season One also debuts PICHULIK’s first precious gemstone Rosa bead necklaces, in striking palettes of coral and aquamarine or pearl and tiger’s eye. The signature S-curve clasp invites personalisation, letting wearers mix and match charms – from fish and cosmos to the iconic pomegranate – for a truly individual statement.

Accessories get the same luxe treatment. Following the Mermaid bag, the new Athena bag is rope-crocheted, lightweight and comes in three styles: over-theshoulder clutch, adjustable crossbody and a bejewelled evening edition. PICHULIK teamed up with South African label Shack Baby to create a Byzantine-inspired woven and embellished headpiece ... a showstopper for any occasion.

“Lacuna honours the pause as a threshold,” says founder Katherine-Mary Pichulik. “Gaps are not emptiness, they are invitations to reimagine, transform and adorn with intention.”

With its mix of sculptural rope brass, symbolic charms and gemstones, Lacuna is more than a collection. It is jewellery you feel, wear and live with. For the PICHULIK woman, every piece is a conversation starter, an amulet and a must-have addition to her wardrobe.

Discover the collection at pichulik.com and @pichulikafrica

TIME GOES TO THE DOGS IN THE MOST EXQUISITE WAY

Hermès invites collectors into a world where craftsmanship meets charm with the Arceau Jour de Casting – a whimsical trio of timepieces that celebrate the artistry of watchmaking and the playful spirit of man’s best friend.

Designed by Henri d’Origny in 1978, the Arceau’s round case and signature stirrup-inspired lugs pay homage to the Maison’s equestrian heritage, o ering a poetic canvas for imagination. Inspired by artist Liz Stirling’s Jour de casting silk scarf, this latest creation features three impeccably groomed dogs – Taco, Amy and Orson – brought to life through an extraordinary craft technique. Each dog is framed within a 38 mm white gold case set with 71 diamonds, housing the Manufacture Hermès H1912 self-winding movement. A rose-cut diamond graces the crown, while sapphire crystal front and back reveal the precision within. Swift calfskin straps – Bleu Jean for Taco, Ambre for Amy and Noir for Orson – echo the mood of each limited edition, with just 12 or 24 pieces available per design. More than a showcase of technical mastery, the Arceau Jour de Casting embodies the joyful irreverence at the heart of Hermès: a Maison where time is not merely counted, but celebrated with play, artistry and imagination.

TACO

With his laughing eyes and lively energy, Taco comes to life through miniature and cloisonné enamel. The artisan begins by applying a layer of blue enamel to the dial before hand-painting the dog’s white coat. Gold wires trace his outline and collar, creating subtle reliefs that catch the light. Every firing enriches the hues and textures, resulting in a portrait as vivid as it is endearing.

AMY

Ever the stylish one in her signature spectacles, Amy is the product of engraving and miniature painting. Under the engraver’s delicate hand, her features emerge in fine relief before vibrant enamel brushstrokes give her a mischievous personality. Multiple firings reveal subtle gradations of tone, lending Amy a lifelike depth that seems ready to wink at any moment.

ORSON

The refined black-andwhite pup, Orson is shaped through wood marquetry –a meticulous puzzle of eight different woods, each cut, assembled and painted by hand. The nuanced play of grain and tone, accentuated by painted details, brings warmth and realism to his composed expression.

The art of resistance

Kilmany-Jo Liversage: painting power in a precarious world

There are artists who observe the world and then there are artists who confront it head-on. Kilmany-Jo Liversage belongs unapologetically to the latter. Her portraits, bold, arresting and almost electrically alive, command attention from the first glance. What stops the viewer in their tracks is not only the scale or colour, but her extraordinary technical precision. She paints faces with such confidence and control that expression becomes presence; the figures don’t just look back at you, they arrive.

In an age where the image is endlessly replicated, filtered, cropped and distorted, Kilmany-Jo’s ability to construct a genuine face from pigment feels almost radical. Her command of form is the anchor that grounds all the energetic disruption happening around it. This mastery is the quiet, but powerful, engine beneath her explosive surfaces. Because if her portraits hold still, her canvases certainly do not.

Kilmany-Jo builds, scrapes back and interrupts her surfaces with bursts of gra ti marks – gestures loaded with urban pulse and electric grit. These layers create a friction between order and unruliness, between classical portraiture and street expressionism. Spraypaint disrupts and rewrites, just as identity itself is continually rewritten and reclaimed. The e ect is a visual push-and-pull that keeps the viewer moving, thinking, returning.

This tension is the key to her latest exhibition, PREKARIA, titled in reference to the precariousness that accompanies change, instability and transformation. Every mark she places is deliberate, yet delicate, the margin between harmony and collapse razor-thin. In this space of instability, her portraits become a meditation on uncertainty: what endures, what fractures and what resurfaces stronger than before.

Then comes the deeper resonance; the conviction behind the beauty.

Kilmany-Jo’s work is grounded in a potent commentary on gender equality and representation. Her portraits, often of women pulled from contemporary culture, refuse passivity. These are not muses; they are forces. They stare back. They claim space. By elevating everyday figures into icons, she challenges longstanding hierarchies of who is deemed worthy of being seen, celebrated and immortalised.

Her women embody agency. They radiate power. Their beauty is not an ornament but a declaration.

The result is art that becomes both celebration and resistance, a luminous protest painted with defiance, tenderness and unshakeable purpose.

From Cape Town to London, Singapore to Johannesburg, Kilmany-Jo’s solo shows trace a career marked by relentless evolution. Highlights include ILLUMINA (Everard Read London, 2023), FERVA (WORLDART, 2021), Chroma718 (Everard Read Johannesburg, 2018) and the long-running Orda and Portra series.

Kilmany-Jo Liversage is represented by WORLDART in Cape Town. Explore her available works at www.worldart.co.za or contact info@worldart.co.za

THE STAGE IS SET

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concertss is back with a spectacular season

Cape Town’s most loved summer tradition is back and this year, the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts are pulling out all the stops. Each Sunday, the lawns of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden transform into the city’s favourite open-air music arena, framed by the majestic rise of Table Mountain and alive with the pulse of world-class performances.

This season promises an irresistible mix of charttoppers, iconic collaborations and global talent. Expect everything from Afro-soul, indie-pop and desert blues to electronic magic, rock anthems and full orchestral brilliance. Highlights include Mi Casa’s feel-good grooves, rock favourites Prime Circle and Jesse Clegg and the powerhouse duo Karen Zoid and Francois van Coke marking the 10-year anniversary of of ‘Toe vind ek jou’. The December line-up shines with Bongeziwe Mabandla and Matthew Field, viral favourite The Ki ness and a New Year’s Eve celebration featuring

Mango Groove and The Billy Joel Experience. January and February bring their own magic: Goldfish’s electrifying electronic set, Belinda Davids’ soaring Whitney Houston tribute, Freshlyground and Manana, Bombino’s desert blues, the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s tango showcase, Msaki and The ALT BLK Collective and a host of local favourites including Jeremy Loops, Vusi Mahlasela and Jabulile Majola, Matthew Mole and Thandiswa Mazwai. Rising stars Will Linley and Ben Rodrigues add fresh energy before the season closes with a special CPO children’s concert.

“This year’s line-up is possibly our most exciting yet,” says Events and Tourism Manager Sarah Struys. Tickets are limited, secure yours via Webtickets, pack your picnic and get ready for a summer of music, magic and connection at one of the world’s most iconic outdoor venues.

PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL Fall in love all over again

Big musical. Big emotions. Big, huge entertainment. Get ready, South Africa, the sparkle, romance and sheer joy of Pretty Woman: The Musical is making its South African debut in 2026! The beloved Broadway and West End hit brings one of Hollywood’s most iconic love stories to the stage, opening at Cape Town’s Artscape Opera House on 18 March, before moving to Johannesburg’s Montecasino Teatro on 24 April.

Set against the neon glow of the late ’80s, this heartwarming musical reimagines the 1990 film that made Julia Roberts and Richard Gere global icons. Brimming with laughter, glamour and unforgettable songs by Grammy Awardwinning artist Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, the show features both familiar favourites, including Roy Orbison’s ‘Oh, Pretty Woman’ and a vibrant original score of pop-rock ballads that will have audiences swaying in their seats.

At its heart is the story of Vivian and Edward; their two worlds colliding in a whirlwind of chance, charm and second chances. The production captures everything fans love about the film: its wit, warmth and unapologetic celebration of love in all its surprising forms.

Produced by Showtime Management in association with Crossroads Live North America, Pretty Woman: The Musical will feature an all-South African cast and crew, supported by an international creative team led by Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell. With dazzling costumes, highenergy ensemble numbers and a story impossible not to fall for, this is a feelgood spectacle you will not want to miss. Because to miss Pretty Woman: The Musical? Big mistake. Big. Huge.

A NIGHT WITH THE ROYAL COUNTESS

Zingara

There are many words for astounding: spectacular, spellbinding, showstopping and somehow, The Royal Countess Zingara’s La Dolce Royal manages to embody them all.

BY ROBERT VOERMAN

Anight at the Countess’s is no ordinary evening out. It is an invitation, whispered, exclusive, to step through a door that looks perfectly ordinary from the outside, but inside? You tumble straight down a rabbit hole into a world dripping with glamour, mischief and just the right amount of madness.

The adventure began at the famed Aperol Spritz bar, where the air was heavy with citrus and laughter. Zingarians (as guests are fondly known) mingled under a haze of anticipation, their cocktails glinting like liquid sunshine. At one point, we passed a woman reclining in a giant glass of Aperol Spritz – yes, really – smiling knowingly, as if she had already witnessed the marvels that awaited us.

Soon, we were ushered into the mainstage arena, a dazzling space of swirling smoke, pulsing lights and tables circling a stage that promised spectacle. The energy was electric; you could almost taste the excitement. Although, before the show even began, it was clear everything at Countess Zingara is theatre, even dinner service.

The servers were no mere waitsta , they were characters, each one an actor in this fantastical cabaret. Pirates, poets, jesters, dreamers, they floated through the room like living art. Our own server, Toasty the pirate, was a riot. With the comedic timing of a seasoned performer and the attentiveness of a butler to royalty, he kept our glasses full and spirits higher. Beneath the humour, though, was precision, an entire crew executing a five-course feast for nearly 400 guests with choreography that rivalled the show itself.

My evening unfolded one sip and bite at a time: a citrusy Aperol, then a smoky burnt-orange whisky sour that made my heart hum.

The meal began with knotted bread and butter: deceptively simple, beautifully done, followed by a mezze platter of hummus, baba ghanoush, labneh and a tiny soup shot that was pure velvet. The primi piatti? Delicate ravioli that danced between buttery and bright.

Then the Countess raised her metaphorical curtain.

The lights dimmed and the air shifted. Suddenly, we were inside a living dream. Acrobats soared above our heads, singers filled the room with liquid gold, contortionists became poetry in motion. Each act built on the last, blurring the line between dining and divine.

My main, a tender fillet bathed in chilli-chocolate sauce, arrived in perfect synchrony with a high note so pure it sent shivers down my spine. My companion’s herb-crusted salmon? A triumph. And yes, a Don Julio Margarita joined the performance, adding just the right amount of sass to the sweetness.

Dessert came in threes, malva pudding, crème brûlée and berry mousse, because moderation, in the Countess’s world, is terribly dull.

When the final bow came, no one wanted to leave ... and so, we didn’t. The room erupted into an afterparty, guests and performers twirling together in a blur of sequins and delight.

Countess Zingara does not just serve dinner and a show, she provides escape. Pure, unapologetic escapism dressed in sequins and set to song.

La Dolce Royal runs Tuesdays to Sundays at Century City. Grounds open at 6pm, doors at 7pm, show at 8pm. Tickets (from R1 150) include a five-course feast, a welcome drink and entry to the Countess’s world. One word of advice: go ready to be amazed – and stay ready to dance.

Chef Ivor Jones

THE GODFATHER OF SOUTH AFRICA’S CULINARY SCENE THE GODFATHER OF SOUTH AFRICA’S CULINARY SCENE

BY ROBERT VOERMAN

TThe chefs’ chef. It’s not every day you get to interview someone whose name most Cape Town chefs cannot stop mentioning. I barely started asking around before I realised: the number of times Chef Ivor Jones’s name came up bordered on the absurd. When asked about inspiration, other chefs will not hesitate. They say: Ivor.

Somehow, chef Ivor Jones has become a cornerstone of the city’s culinary scene; one that rivals the great food capitals of the world, not just in quality, but in creativity. Cape Town’s kitchens hum with his influence; he is part of the DNA of how the city cooks. So what is it like to meet a culinary giant of his stature and reputation?

Meeting him at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia, it’s easy to see why he is so revered. The kitchen does not hide away in the shadows ... it opens onto rolling vineyards and sweeping skies. Chef Ivor

Jones has been here for nine years, yet he still marvels at the sunrises.

“Every spring and summer, when that sun comes up early in the morning; man, it’s amazing. Super good.”

He says it with a grin that holds equal parts pride and disbelief that this is his daily backdrop.

THE LONG GAME

Chef Ivor has been cooking for 19 years; first, under Luke Dale-Roberts at the original La Colombe at Uitsig. He was still finding his way then, working alongside a generation of chefs who would go on to define Cape Town’s fine-dining landscape. Many of them still call him a friend or a mentor.

“Wesley Randles from Nevermind cooked with me. Ryan Cole and I worked together at The Test Kitchen. James Gaag, now executive chef and owner at La Colombe, was next to me on the stove back then.”

This is a tight-knit community, but Ivor has long earned his place as one of its central figures, even if he laughs at the idea of being called the godfather of Cape Town’s culinary scene.

“I’m still pretty young. I turn 40 next year. In my headspace, that’s huge. When I was young, a 40-year-old was an old man. Now I’m there!”

That looming milestone has shifted his focus. He’s been in the gym three or four times a week. He admits it is not easy when tasting risotto after risotto during service. Although, his discipline puts mine to shame, especially considering how quickly I devoured every plate that came my way.

A REPUTATION BUILT ON PEOPLE

What truly sets this chef apart, after talking to him and to his team, former colleagues and friends, is not merely his food. It is in the way he treats people.

Talking to him, you forget how large his reputation is. He speaks like a peer; open, warm and disarmingly genuine. There is laughter, an ease and a sense he is far more interested in connection than hierarchy.

“I think the food I do is quite fun and creative, but I don’t take myself too seriously. I’m super approachable most of the time. You earn your reputation by how you treat people. If you’re a tyrant in the kitchen, it comes back to bite you. A lot of people who’ve come through my kitchen are now out doing their own thing. That’s important to me.”

That attitude has built a legacy beyond what appears on the plate. His protégés now lead their own restaurants across the city and they speak of him with deep respect.

“I’m proud to have a good rep with the people who mean a lot to me.”

And it shows. The culture at Beau Constantia is one of collaboration and creativity; a place where everyone has a voice. It’s not a dictatorship; it is a dialogue.

REINVENTING THE MENU

Recently, Ivor and his team introduced a tasting menu at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia – a bold move for a restaurant built on tapas-style dining.

“This year was a f*ck-it year. I always wanted to do more tasting-menu style. We were always teetering on the edges of fine dining. I said to Liam [Tomlin], if we’re gonna do it, let’s do it our own way. Not like everyone else.”

The result? A five-course menu that is actually closer to seven, complete with surprises like a bread course and pre-desserts. What sets it apart is choice. Diners are not locked into a rigid sequence. Dishes can be swapped or tailored to suit personal preferences.

Inspiration comes from produce that is in season –local spring vegetables, wildflowers on the roadside that signal asparagus season – and from his travels. Thailand, Vietnam and Japan have all left a mark on his food.

One of his current favourites shows that global mashup: a tuna dish infused with Malaysian rendang flavours. Ordinarily a dry curry with beef or lamb, here the dish is reimagined as coconut rendang with tuna, milk crisps and an Indian-style kumquat atchar created by one of his sous chefs.

Another standout is a beetroot tarte tatin, caramelised with honey, sherry vinegar, thyme and pu pastry, crisped in the barbecue oven. Familiar, yet surprising, it is the kind of dish that makes you pause, then smile.

“We have a lot of fun with it,” he says. “Everyone gets to contribute. That’s important to me.”

LIFE BEYOND THE PASS

For all the intensity, chef Ivor knows balance. His days o are refreshingly normal: a stop at the Engen for ghost pops and gummies, an afternoon of gaming and evenings with his wife, who handles most of the home cooking. Meals are clean, healthy and simple, balancing the endless tastings that come with the job. Once or twice a month, there’s McDonald’s. Just like the rest of us.

When he eats out, he looks for heart and consistency: Atavola for Italian, Ember & Oak at Uitsig and Ouzeri in town. When it comes to fine dining, he tips his hat to Salsify, which he calls one of the most beautiful culinary experiences in Cape Town right now.

After nearly a decade at Beau Constantia, Ivor is not slowing down. Lunches remain relaxed and breezy; dinners shift into something more refined, with candles and a touch of elegance. Although, both still pulse with that unmistakable Chefs Warehouse energy: music, warmth and accessibility. He’s settled, but never still. The menu evolves. The travel continues. The community around him keeps growing.

“It’s the hardest job in the world some days, but when it clicks, there’s nothing better.”

There are few places in Cape Town – perhaps in the world – that deliver such flawless execution of creativity and technique, dish after dish, while still making you feel welcome, relaxed and seen.

Chef Ivor Jones and his team at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia have built something special: a restaurant that reflects not only culinary brilliance, but generosity of spirit. It is that, more than anything, that keeps Cape Town talking.

Together for special moments

Combining boldly colourful interiors with a forest-inspired verticality, creative entrepreneur Gary Sher’s Cape Town home is a unique and exuberant treat.

PHOTOGRAPHS GREG COX TEXT ROBYN ALEXANDER STYLING ADRI CLERY

COLOUR play

Some houses are a wonderful surprise. Of course, it is always impossible to know exactly what lies behind someone else’s front door – that’s what the privacy of home means, after all – but nevertheless, we assume many things before crossing a threshold. We know where we are in terms of city and neighbourhood; we pick up on clues from the architecture; we anticipate a look and feel from other people’s descriptions of a space.

None of these signs and signals, however, could possibly prepare a first-time visitor for the bursts of exuberant colour and playful energy that characterise Gary Sher’s Cape Town home. Indeed, the creative entrepreneur – whose eclectic CV includes stints in fashion, design and online retail, in addition to more prosaic business ventures and volunteer work – says people experiencing his home for the first time “are frequently pretty overwhelmed and excited” by seeing all the vibrant colour in its interiors. “It’s probably because they’re just unused to seeing so much,” he speculates.

With its front door neatly framed by a concrete archway, built-in planter boxes and a concrete and wood-clad exterior providing excellent purchase for climbing plants, the house is one of a pair of adjoining dwellings that were – together with an apartment tucked into the slope beneath them – built in 2012.

Flooring designed for every space in your home

The mid-century tubular metal drinks trolley, which once belonged to Gary's late grandmother, is topped with a selection of novelty coloured glass cat- and dog-shaped decanters, which were collected over time by Gary from various trinket stores. Opposite page: Large windows on both sides of the living and dining area ensure the space is flooded with natural light throughout the day. The custom-made dining chairs were designed by Atelier (atelierinteriors.xyz) and upholstered in bright blue Soho fabric in Cobalt by Romo (romosouthafrica.com), while the Staple bench in Powder Blue is by Arrange Studio (arrangestudio.co.za), the sculptural occasional chair was bought on auction and the rug was sourced by Gary while on holiday in Morocco.

This charming pair of bird figurines was found at Colonial Antiques (instagram.com/colonialantiques). Opposite page: The pale blue colour used for the kitchen walls has proved a hit with Gary – he and Adri are planning to transform this space into an entirely baby-blue-on-baby-blue room soon – and provides the perfect backdrop for a plethora of quirky collectables and ceramics. The vintage stools are part of a set that Gary found at “a random corner shop” and the framed artworks displayed on top of the upper cabinets are by (from left) Good Good Boy Studio (instagram.com/goodgoodboystudio), Nabeeha Mohamed (instagram.com/ nabeeha_m) and Grace Cross (gracecross.net).

In the master en suite bathroom, a bath with a seriously beautiful view. The marble side table is by Lemon (lemonfurniture.co). Opposite page: Situated on the top floor of the house, the bedroom suite is the one part of Gary’s home that is not filled with bright colour; here, instead, a rich yet peaceful nude wall colour created by interior designer Adri Clery for Atelier (atelierinteriors.xyz) sets off wooden elements, including the original ceiling. The large platform bed, which was designed by Atelier, features crocodile green leather with beautiful stitch detailing, as well as a custom headboard, also designed by Atelier and woven by Coral & Hive. The wall-mounted bedside lamps are from &Tradition (andtradition.com) and the curtains were made up in Signature Linen in Laurel from Mavromac & Gatehouse (mavromacandthegatehouse.co.za). The space includes a small lounging area, delineated by a rug made from recycled materials from Herringbone (herringbone.co.za) and the black and white artworks are by Ben Eagle (instagram.com/ben_eagle_studio).

Holiday plans?

We deliver there too.

We’ve picked 12 special wines to pair with festive moments of gathering, giving & savouring. Think lazy lunches under the trees, tables with friends, and glasses raised to another good year. 15%

Situated off the basement studio space at the bottom of the house is a spacious courtyard garden overlooked by several mature trees; as is evident throughout the house, Gary is most definitely a plant enthusiast. The outdoor lounge furniture is by Studio BrichetZiegler (studiobrichetziegler.com).

The rooftop deck features several hardy potted plants, including a pair of fire sticks (Euphorbia tirucalli) cacti. The steel side table is by Lemon (lemonfurniture.co). Opposite page: The spacious balcony off the front of the living and dining space is at its very best in the morning, says Gary, when its position makes it perfect for basking. The Palissade outdoor dining table is by HAY (hay.com), while Gary found the set of vintage stools at yet another random corner shop, and purchased the carved wooden crocodile from a roadside wood-carver in Durban.

THERE SHE AGAIN GLOWS

Entrepreneur, beauty expert and wellness enthusiast Shahnaz ColaWrensch is on a mission to make the world glow - from the inside out.

GLOWS

WWhen you meet Shahnaz Cola-Wrensch, one thing is instantly clear - her glow is not just skin deep. Born and raised in the UK, the entrepreneur, beauty influencer and make-up artist behind Lumi Glo has built her brand (and her life) around one powerful belief: when you take care of yourself, inside and out, the world shines a little brighter, too.

As the founder of Lumi Glo, a vegan, cruelty-free skincare range powered by CBD leaf extract, Shahnaz has become synonymous with healthy, radiant skin. Her years as a sought-after make-up artist for magazines like Elle, Marie Claire, Glamour and Cosmopolitan taught her a natural glow starts long before foundation. “Good skin changes how you show up in the world,” she says. “It’s confidence, it’s self-love, it’s everything.”

THE GLOW-UP JOURNEY

Shahnaz’s own skincare story began as a personal struggle. “As a teen, I had breakouts, eczema and pigmentation and no idea how to handle any of it,” she shares. It was her career as a make-up artist that turned that frustration into fascination. “I saw how radiant skin could make people feel. I loved helping someone look in the mirror and light up, that confidence is addictive!”

That passion, combined with her desire for clean, e ective products that worked for sensitive skin, sparked the creation of Lumi Glo. The brand’s ethos is as much about inner wellbeing as outer beauty. “Taking care of your skin is one of the biggest gifts you can give yourself,” says Shahnaz. “It’s not vanity, it is self-respect.”

GLOWING FROM THE INSIDE OUT

After years of working in the fast-paced beauty industry, Shahnaz realised glowing skin means very little if you are running on empty. “I reached a point where I was burnt out,” she admits. “On the outside everything looked amazing, but mentally and emotionally, I was drained.”

That realisation became a turning point and the beginning of her next chapter. Shahnaz launched her podcast, Glo From The Inside Out, a heartfelt space dedicated to selfdevelopment, health and mental wellness.

Each episode sees her in conversation with inspiring women from all walks of life – from nutritionists and healers to business founders and creatives – exploring how we can all nurture balance, joy and resilience. “I wanted to create a space where women could feel seen, supported and inspired,” she says. “We talk about everything, burnout, boundaries, anxiety, purpose, the real stu . Because wellness is not a trend ... it is a lifestyle.”

With her trademark warmth, honesty and

quick wit, Shahnaz brings a refreshing realness to the wellness space. She is the friend who will tell you to journal and meditate, but also remind you to take a nap and not feel guilty about it.

A BEAUTY THAT CONNECTS US ALL

For Shahnaz, beauty is about community and connection, not comparison. Whether through her products, her podcast or her glowing social media presence, she is all about creating inclusive spaces where people feel empowered to show up as their truest selves.

“I want everyone – no matter their age, gender or background – to feel good in their own skin,” she says. “We are all works in progress and that is beautiful.”

From the luminous skincare she formulates to the meaningful conversations she curates, Shahnaz Cola-Wrensch is proving true beauty begins where self-care meets self-acceptance and the brightest glow of all is the one that starts from within.

A DAY AT ERNIE ELS WINES

Celebrating 25 excellence

years of

There’s something magical about a day spent at Ernie Els Wines. Nestled in the Helderberg Mountains, with Table Mountain glimmering in the distance, the estate feels like a private sanctuary for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike. This year, the Stellenbosch gem celebrates 25 years of crafting exceptional wines, and a visit here is the perfect way to toast that milestone.

BY MORGAN STEWART

Arriving at the estate, you’re immediately struck by the balance of elegance and warmth. The tasting room invites you in with its friendly, knowledgeable sta and a range of award-winning wines to explore. From the first sip of the Ernie Ernie Els Signature Bordeaux-style blend to a taste of the estate’s rare vintages in the vinothèque, every pour tells the story of dedication, terroir and the pursuit of excellence.

A highlight of the visit is lunch at the restaurant. Bookings are essential and for good reason; the Grillworks menu pairs perfectly with the estate’s wines, o ering hearty, locally sourced farmhouse dishes served with e ortless style. Take a seat on the terrace and soak in panoramic views of the Helderberg, Stellenbosch and Table Mountain as the sun warms the vineyards. Every bite and sip feels part of a larger celebration of the senses.

Wandering the estate, you notice the attention to detail everywhere, from the lush landscaping to the thoughtfully designed architecture that recently earned the estate a Best of Wine Tourism award for excellence in design. Collaborating with local artisans and Stellenbosch-based studio Rumour Has It, Ernie Els Wines has created a space that feels both luxurious and authentic, where the surrounding flora, fauna and mountains frame every experience.

For a touch of fun, stop by the Trophy Room, a tribute to Ernie’s illustrious golfing career or try your swing on the chipping green. Guided tours o er an insider’s view of the winemaking process, from the unique Nico Velo concrete tanks to the vineyard slopes that make this region ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon.

If a day trip is not possible, the estate

brings its celebrated wines to you. The online shop o ers local delivery on orders over R500, making it easy to enjoy a little taste of the Helderberg from home.

As you leave, glass in hand and vineyard views lingering, it is clear why Ernie Els Wines has become more than a winery, it’s a place to celebrate life’s milestones, indulge in exceptional food and wine and be inspired by the beauty and craft of the Helderberg. Here’s to 25 years and many more to come.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

n Tasting room and restaurant bookings: bookings@ernieelswines.com 021 881 3588

n Shop online: www.ernieelswines.com (free delivery on local orders over R500)

n Social media: Instagram @ernieelswines Facebook @ernieelswines

We L ve

HAIR CARE / SKINCARE / FRAGRANCES

pg 106

Golden, bold and unforgettable: Roberto Cavalli Serpentine.

Haircare now: because your hair deserves main-character status. BY

MORGAN STEWART

Haircare has o cially entered its golden era; and your hair is the star of the show. Gone are the days of ‘wash, rinse, hope for the best’. Now it’s a full-blown ritual. A personality trait. A moment where you light a candle, talk lovingly to your coils/curls/ waves/strands and pretend you definitely did not just pull out a knot the size of a grape.

MANE CHARACTER energy

Whether your hair lies flat, spirals dramatically, waves romantically or coils with attitude, this season is all about embracing your natural texture and giving your scalp the VIP treatment it’s been quietly begging for. Think smarter formulas, shinier strands, healthier roots and routines so tailored they feel like a love letter to your hair. Ready to claim your mane character energy? Let’s go.

WHAT’S TRENDING IN HAIRCARE RIGHT NOW

Scalp skinification Your scalp is having its moment. Scalp serums, gentle exfoliants and barrier-loving formulas are the new must-haves. Healthy roots = thriving hair.

Personalised everything Custom shampoos, hair quizzes, scalp scans – we are done with one-size-fits-all. Your hair type gets its own recipe now.

Ingredient glow-ups Peptides, hyaluronic acid, adaptogens, bondbuilders ... if it sounds like skincare, it’s in your haircare, too.

Eco chic waterless formulas, solid bars, refillable packaging. Sustainability looks good on you (and your hair).

Heatless and low-heat styling

Silk rods, soft waves, di user-free drying, because fried ends are not the vibe going into the new year.

HEALTHY HAIR HABITS FOR

EVERYONE

1. Start with the scalp; cleanse, treat, exfoliate.

2. Condition with intention masks, deep treatments, the works.

3. Leave-ins = essential for shine, softness and protection.

4. Protect against heat and sun. Your hair takes damage, too.

5. Night care matters; satin/silk are your nocturnal besties.

6. Trim regularly; split ends are not part of your 2026 storyline.

7. Choose strong ingredients; peptides, niacinamide, gentle cleansers, nourishing oils.

Haircare is smarter, kinder and more intuitive than ever and your strands are ready to thrive. Straight, wavy, curly, coily: every texture has its own story and when you treat your hair according to its needs, it shows up looking its absolute best. Here’s to glossy strands, nourished roots, pillowcase diplomacy and entering the new year with undeniable mane character energy.

HAIRCARE BY HAIR TYPE

STRAIGHT HAIR

FINE–MEDIUM

YOUR VIBE Sleek. Shiny. Sometimes a little too friendly with grease. CHEEKY TRUTH

Your roots get oily faster than you can say ‘dry shampoo’.

YOUR NEW ROUTINE

■ Lightweight clarifying shampoo for a fresh reset.

■ Scalp serums to strengthen and balance.

■ Feathery-light conditioners to avoid flatness.

■ Hair mists for scent and shine without weight.

■ Satin pillowcase to keep things smooth overnight.

WAVY HAIR

SOFT BENDS, SLIGHT DRAMA

YOUR VIBE A charming mix of straight and curly and keeping you guessing. CHEEKY TRUTH Oily roots + dry ends = you, multitasking.

YOUR NEW ROUTINE

■ Balanced scalp care to manage oil and buildup.

■ Pre-poo oils or detanglers for smoother wash days.

■ Lightweight mousse or creams to define without drag.

■ Heatless styling for e ortless beachy vibes.

■ Gentle weekly scalp exfoliation to keep waves bouncy.

CURLY HAIR

3A–3C, SPIRALS WITH A TWIST

YOUR VIBE Bouncy, bold and mood-dependent. CHEEKY TRUTH Shrinkage, but make it iconic.

YOUR NEW ROUTINE

■ Hydrating pre-shampoo to minimise breakage.

■ Sulfate-free cleansers and weekly deep conditioning.

■ A leave-in cocktail of moisture and strength.

■ Bond-repair if you colour or style often.

■ Satin bonnet to keep curls intact till morning.

COILY/KINKY HAIR

4A–4C, CROWN OF CROWNS

YOUR VIBE Dense, delicate and the blueprint of volume. CHEEKY TRUTH She’s thirsty. Hydrate accordingly.

YOUR NEW ROUTINE

■ Rich pre-shampoo oils or creams to prep strands.

■ Gentle, non-stripping cleansers and periodic clarifying.

■ Weekly deep conditioning with humectants and proteins.

■ Creamy leave-ins, butters and milks that soothe and strengthen.

■ Protective styles and satin everything.

■ Scalp massages or tech tools for boosted growth.

HAIRCARE FOR EVERYONE

LAIFEN MINI HIGH PERFORMANCE HAIRDRYER

Awarded Best Hairdryer 2025 by Glamour Beauty Awards, the Laifen Mini proves that great things come in small packages. Compact yet powerful, it delivers salon-quality results on the go, making it perfect for travel, gym bags or busy mornings. Swift Ionic Boost technology leaves hair naturally shiny, supple and healthy, while Child Mode ensures gentle, safe styling for little ones. Lightweight, quiet and available in Coral Pink, Arctic White and Jungle Green, the Laifen Mini is proof that small can be mighty. R2 099

MONDAY HAIRCARE REPAIR LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER

Strengthen, smooth and shine – MONDAY’s Repair Leave-In Conditioner nourishes with Keratin, Wheat Protein and Jojoba and Almond Oils while protecting hair from heat and breakage. Frizz-free, glossy and subtly scented with gardenia, this is your hair’s new BFF: cruelty-free, sulfate- and paraben-free and housed in recyclable packaging. R149

MONDAY HAIRCARE CURL DEFINE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Give your curls the love they deserve with MONDAY’s Curl Define Conditioner. Packed with hydrating Peptides, Coconut Oil and Provitamin B5, it tames frizz, enhances natural curl shape and leaves hair soft, shiny and resilient. Sulfate- and paraben-free, cruelty-free and lightly scented with gardenia, it is curl care done right. R210 each

NUXE HAIR PRODIGIEUX DETANGLING LEAVEIN HAIR MILK

Transform your hair with the nourishing power of fermented pink Camellia oil. This leave-in hair milk instantly detangles, hydrates and protects, leaving strands soft, glossy and lightweight. Silicone-free, vegan and enriched with quinoa extract, it also shields hair from heat styling and has a delicate, luxurious scent; perfect for effortlessly radiant, touchable hair. R575 | 100ml

NISHLADY DUST GRAINS (VOLUME & TEXTURE POWDER)

Boost volume and texture in an instant with NishLady Dust Grains. This lightweight styling powder lifts each strand for fuller, more defined hair without residue, leaving a natural finish that is easy to style and remove. Perfect for daily use, it offers longlasting body and effortless, touchable hold.

R299

NISHLADY CURL MANIFESTO AMPLIFYING MOUSSE

Turn up the volume with NishLady’s Curl Manifesto Amplifying Mousse. Lightweight and non-sticky, it lifts from the roots, enhances natural curl patterns and adds body while keeping hair soft, frizz-free and full of shine. Infused with natural oils, Provitamin B5 and a 12-amino acid complex, it delivers defined, bouncy curls with effortless, touchable hold.

MOROCCANOIL OILY SCALP TREATMENT

Purify, rebalance and refresh with the Oily Scalp Treatment. In just five minutes, this pre-cleansing treatment uses ginger root, lavender, argan oil and biotin peptides to detoxify impurities, control excess oils and stimulate the scalp. The result is healthy-looking, balanced hair with a natural, relaxing ginger and lavender aroma, perfect for a fresh, clean start to every wash.

R610 | 45ml

NUXE HAIR PRODIGIEUX

INTENSIVE REPAIR HAIR MASK

Give your hair a luxury boost with Hair Prodigieux’s Intensive Repair Hair Mask. Enriched with fermented pink camellia oil, shea butter and Provitamin B5, it nourishes, repairs and protects hair from breakage while leaving it soft, silky and radiant. Silicone-free, vegan and richly textured, it transforms hair into stronger, touchable strands with effortless shine. R865 | 200ml

R299

NISHLADY DEEP DETOX MASK

Refresh and revive with NishLady’s Deep Detox Mask. This pre-shampoo treatment deeply cleanses the scalp with natural jojoba particles while nourishing hair from root to tip with green tea and avocado extracts. Lightweight and silicone-free, it restores balance, repairs strands and leaves hair feeling healthy, soft and revilatised. R349

MOROCCANOIL CURL DEFINING CREAM

Bring your curls to life with Moroccanoil’s Curl Defining Cream. Infused with nourishing argan oil and advanced heatactivated technology, it fights frizz, enhances curl memory and promises bouncy, natural-looking curls that last. Lightweight, hydrating and award-winning, it is the perfect finish for soft, defined and touchable curls.

R810 | 250ml

MOROCCANOIL INTENSE SMOOTHING SERUM

Tame frizz and transform hair with Moroccanoil’s Intense Smoothing Serum. Rich in nourishing argan oil, it smooths coarse or unruly strands, leaving hair soft, shiny and manageable while adding a signature warm, floral scent. Perfect for effortless styling and long-lasting polish, this is your go-to serum for sleek, touchable hair. R610 | 50ml

FUTUREME

DISCOVER THE ART OF CONSCIOUS LUXURY SKINCARE

What if beauty wasn’t about chasing youth, but awakening your potential?

What if luxury skincare were less about perfection, and more about presence?

utureMe, the South African luxury skincare sensation since 2023, has launched in India, bringing a new philosophy of beauty, one that celebrates evolution over alteration. Conceived by Supriya Mody, a visionary entrepreneur with over a decade in pharmaceuticals, FutureMe fuses cutting-edge science with emotional luxury, redefining how we nurture skin and self.

AN INVITATION TO INDULGE

Step into a world where skincare is ritual, not routine. With FutureBlend®, FutureMe’s signature formula, high-performance biotechnology meets potent botanicals, penetrating deeply to restore balance, radiance and resilience. The result? Skin that feels alive and a daily reminder that your future self is already within you.

“Our goal was to create skincare that does not just promise results, but inspires a relationship with yourself, one built on confidence, consistency and care,” says Supriya Mody.

LUXURY THAT SPEAKS TO YOU

Minimalist design. White jars with subtle metallic accents. Cool-to-the-touch surfaces. Clean, evocative scents. Every detail of FutureMe is deliberate, creating an experience as refined as it is transformative. It’s a luxury that never shouts, it whispers confidence, serenity and intention.

FROM SCIENCE TO SOUL

FutureMe is clinical at heart, sensual in practice. The textures glide e ortlessly across skin, turning everyday rituals into quiet acts of self-connection. It’s for the modern muse: women who meditate, multitask, dream and do; those who crave mindfulness as much as performance.

“FutureMe celebrates the idea that the most powerful beauty secret is not what you put on your skin, it’s the belief in the person you are becoming,” explains Supriya. Each product in the Aryanani collection becomes a ritual of self-belief, a pause to nurture potential, to celebrate resilience, to trust that growth, like grace, emerges from within.

THE FUTURE OF INDIAN LUXURY SKINCARE

India’s luxury skincare landscape is evolving. Consumers seek authenticity, integrity and intimacy. FutureMe arrives as both a disruptor and a dreammaker: a brand that honours science without sacrificing soul, performance without foregoing pleasure.

BEAUTY AS PHILOSOPHY

Every element of FutureMe reflects a single conviction: true luxury begins when you believe in yourself. Ageing becomes aspiration. Confidence becomes your ultimate accessory. And your skincare? A mindful celebration of evolution, not a race against time.

Launched in India, FutureMe is not merely a collection – it’s a movement. It’s a manifesto for those who understand beauty is not about changing who we are, it’s about uncovering what we have always been.

Glow, don’t burn

YOUR TRENDY SUMMER SKINCARE GUIDE

Summer is finally here, which means long days, iced coffees, poolside lounging and ... sun, sun, sun. While basking in those golden rays is bliss, your skin is working overtime and it deserves a little TLC to stay healthy, hydrated and radiant.

SUNSCREEN IS YOUR BFF

Let’s start with the basics: SPF is not just for beach days, it is a year-round lifesaver. Think of it as your invisible shield against sun damage, premature aging and pesky sunburns. A broadspectrum SPF 30+ is perfect for daily use and if you are sweating or swimming, reapply like your glow depends on it –because it does.

HYDRATION IS KEY

Summer heat can leave skin thirsty and dull. Swap heavy creams for lightweight moisturisers or hydrating serums. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid are miracle workers, locking in moisture without feeling sticky. And yes, drinking water counts as skincare, too. Your skin will thank you.

GLOW ON, BABE

Summer is the perfect excuse to play with your bronser and shimmer products. A touch of bronzer on the cheekbones, nose and temples instantly gives you that sunkissed, Instagram-worthy glow. Pair it with a light highlighter on your collarbones and eyelids and you are basically a human summer filter.

PROTECT AND ACCESSORISE

Sunscreen alone is not enough. Widebrimmed hats, oversized sunglasses and light, breathable fabrics are stylish ways to block the sun while staying chic. Bonus: UV-protective makeup is trending this season, think foundations and powders with SPF built-in for e ortless protection.

TAILOR YOUR ROUTINE

Oily? Go for mattifying sunscreens and oilfree moisturisers. Dry or sensitive? Amp up the hydration and barrier-repair products. Remember, summer skincare is no onesize-fits-all, it is all about listening to what your skin needs.

PRO TIP: GLOW RESPONSIBLY

Summer fun is about radiance, not burns. Keep exfoliating gently, mask occasionally and indulge in antioxidant-packed serums. Your skin will stay luminous, healthy and selfie-ready all season long.

Summer is all about e ortless glow, sunsoaked adventures and bronzed cheeks but smart skincare makes it sustainable. Protect, hydrate and shimmer wisely and your skin will not only survive the heat, it will thrive.

SUNCARE FOR EVERYONE

NUXE SUN OIL GOLD HIGH PROTECTION SPF50

A summer must-have, this shimmering SPF50 oil protects against UVA/UVB and blue light while giving skin a luminous golden glow. Lightweight, hydrating and fast-absorbing, it enhances all skin tones with natural mother-of-pearl and helps prevent photoageing with antioxidant Rice and Rosemary extracts. Finished with NUXE’s iconic sunny scent, it keeps skin protected, radiant and irresistibly glowy. R995 | 150ml

NUXE HUILE PRODIGIEUSE® ROLL-ON

The iconic golden dry oil gets a chic new twist. Now in a travel-friendly roll-on, Huile Prodigieuse Or delivers its signature blend of seven botanical oils and luminous pearly pigments with effortless precision. Glide it over cheekbones, collarbones, legs or even through hair for instant hydration, a satin finish and a radiant golden sheen; never greasy, always glowing. With its sun-kissed, warm-sand scent and quick, targeted application, this little roll-on is your goanywhere glow booster. R795

SOL DE JANEIRO RIO RADIANCE SPF 50 BODY OIL

Glow and protect in one step with Sol de Janeiro’s Rio Radiance SPF50 Body Oil. This nourishing dry oil blends patauá oil and pongamia seed extract to shield skin from environmental stressors while keeping it deeply hydrated. Golden mica delivers an instant, sun-kissed shimmer that flatters all skin tones and the iconic Cheirosa 87 scent of solar tuberose and leite de coco completes the ultimate beach-ready ritual. all skin tones and the iconic

AVÈNE THERMAL SPRING WATER SPRAY

A skincare classic for a reason, Avène’s Thermal Spring Water Spray delivers instant soothing, softening relief, especially for sensitive or easily irritated skin. Bottled directly at the source in Avène, France, this pure mineral-rich mist calms, refreshes and restores balance with every spritz. Perfect for post-sun skin, travel, heatwaves or anytime your complexion needs a gentle reset, it’s the ultimate cooling companion for summer and beyond. R330 | 300ml

AVÈNE INTENSE PROTECT 50+

This next-generation sunscreen goes beyond traditional UVA/UVB protection, shielding skin from highenergy visible blue light, one of the most harmful parts of the spectrum. With a ultra-light hybrid texture that absorbs in just three seconds, it delivers eight hours of hydration and a nude, invisible finish that suits every skin tone. Water- and sweat-resistant and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin, this is your go-to defence for intense sun exposure without the heaviness. R440 | 150ml

BIODERMA PHOTODERM XDEFENSE ULTRA-FLUID

SPF50+ SHADE 04

suits every skin tone. Water- and sweat-resistant and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin, this

BIODERMA PHOTODERM BRUME INVISIBLE MIST SPF50+

A refreshing, family-friendly sunscreen, this invisible mist delivers high UVA/UVB protection with no rubbing needed. Enriched with antioxidant vitamin E, it protects cells from oxidative stress while providing eight hours of hydration. Lightweight, non-sticky and water-resistant, it can be applied easily – even upside down – on face and body for an instant cooling effect and an invisible, comfortable finish. Perfect for sensitive skin and all skin types. R575

Meet the first ultra-fluid detox sunscreen from Bioderma, designed to protect skin from the harmful effects of sun and pollution. With SPF50+ broad-spectrum coverage – including UVA, visible light and infrared rays – its patented formula not only shields, but also strengthens the skin’s natural defenses. Lightweight, fast-absorbing and eco-conscious, it leaves skin feeling fresh, supported and radiant, while minimising impact on the skin and aquatic ecosystems. Perfect for all skin types seeking high protection with a detoxifying edge. R365 | 40ml

GOLDEN, BOLD UNFORGETTABLE Roberto Cavalli Serpentine

Meet Roberto Cavalli Serpentine, the fragrance that slithers straight into your senses and does not let go. Inspired by the house’s most legendary symbol, the serpent, this perfume is more than a scent; it’s a declaration of strength, allure and unapologetic seduction. Cavalli’s signature codes of sensuality have been bottled into an olfactory masterpiece that is impossible to forget.

From the moment you lay eyes on it, Serpentine is pure drama. Encased in a pristine white flacon and coiled with a golden snake, the 100ml edition even transforms the serpent into a detachable bracelet, because why not wear your power on your wrist? A gleaming golden cap completes the look, exuding magnetic elegance that feels madeto-measure for a modern enchantress.

Crafted by Mane senior perfumers Gino Percontino, Ralf Schwieger and Patricia Choux, Serpentine is “opulent yet sensual, like a golden second skin”. It is a floral woody ambery parfum that dazzles in layers.

Top notes Sparkling bergamot and juicy blackcurrant ignite the senses.

Heart notes Jasmine Sambac, magnolia and lavender bloom luxuriously, warmed by golden sa ron.

Base notes Vanilla and patchouli wrap you in a seductive embrace, softened by botanical nuances and a signature

Second-Skin Accord.

Shot by the visionary duo Luigi & Iango, the campaign stars supermodel Natasha Poly as the ultimate Serpentine muse. She channels the duality of the fragrance, strength and seduction, adorned with the golden serpent that both protects and mesmerises.

Roberto Cavalli Serpentine is available in 100ml, 50ml and 30ml editions at select retailers nationwide. Dare to wear it, dare to enchant.

FROM ITALY TO SOUTH AFRICAwith love

Clearworld’s culinary connection to a global gastronomic community.

If you have ever sat down at a fine-dining table to find a bottle of S.Pellegrino or Acqua Panna waiting to refresh your palate, chances are the hands behind its journey belong to Clearworld Suppliers. When chefs go searching for premium Italian essentials, think Caputo flour, Colavita Pasta and Olive Oil, Ciao Authentic Italian Tomatoes or silky Carnaroli Risotto rice, it is Clearworld they call. As South Africa’s specialist importers of Italian food and beverage excellence, Clearworld has become one of the hospitality industry’s most indispensable behind-thescenes partners.

The story begins with founder and CEO Philip Abrahamson, whose lifelong love a air with Italy shaped Clearworld’s origins. “From a young age, I've been very connected to Italy through friends and family,” he shares. “I’ve always felt at home in the Italian way of gathering around a table, where cooking is the heart of every occasion. There’s a deep, inseparable link between family, food and wine.”

Clearworld’s first breakthrough came shortly after its 2012 launch, when the company secured its role as a retail distribution partner for S.Pellegrino in South Africa. “Other suppliers were already serving the restaurant industry, but no one wanted to deal with the challenge of getting those 500ml plastic bottles into retail,” Abrahamson recalls with a laugh. “I was the only idiot who took it on! But with hard work and persistence, we made it happen.”

When sourcing new products for Clearworld clients or for its Italian Deli Online, Abrahamson prefers to skip trade shows entirely. Instead, he explores Italy city by city, discovering gems in boutique stores, hotel dining rooms, neighbourhood restaurants and small

supermarkets. “It’s about being niche,” he says. “Being incredibly selective about the products you choose.”

Clearworld’s journey from importing the best Italy has to o er to empowering South Africa’s culinary community took a major leap in 2021. Becoming the sole distributor of S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna to the hospitality sector meant stepping into a central role in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy competition, one of the most globally recognised platforms for emerging chefs.

“There is so much young talent in this country,” says Abrahamson. “Playing a part in introducing them to the international gastronomic world, an opportunity many would never have otherwise, is hugely exciting.”

The biannual competition welcomes chefs under 30 with at least a year of professional kitchen experience. Regional finalists earn the chance to compete in the Grand Finale in Milan, where they meet industry icons like Massimo Bottura and connect with mentors and peers from across the globe. “S.Pellegrino isn’t just a water,” Abrahamson adds. “It’s a doorway into a global community.”

Supporting the future of hospitality has since become integral to Clearworld’s purpose. Each year, the company funds scholarships through the Sommeliers Academy, giving young people working in restaurants a pathway to uplift their careers. Scullers who dream of stepping behind the bar, servers who aspire to become sommeliers, Clearworld helps them take those next steps with confidence.

From Italy to South Africa and from South Africa to the world, Clearworld remains guided by one belief: that good food sits at the heart of genuine connection and community.

COOK, GATHER celebrate

This holiday season, elevate your table with four show-stopping recipes from Le Creuset, where kitchen craftsmanship meets festive flavour. Dive into a citrus-glazed seville-orange and sage roast duck, crisp golden roast potatoes infused with confit garlic, a vibrant spinach-artichokericotta bread wreath, perfect for sharing and a decadent cherry lattice skillet pie to round off the celebration. Whether you are hosting a grand feast or an intimate gathering, these recipes promise remarkable taste and unforgettable presentation.

SPINACH, ARTICHOKE AND RICOTTA STUFFED BREAD WREATH

Cook time: 90 minutes Ÿ Serving size: 6-8

INGREDIENTS

Dough

• 1 cup lukewarm water

• 3 tablespoons milk

• 3 teaspoons dry yeast

• 4 tablespoons caster sugar

• 360g bread flour

• 3 teaspoons vegetable oil

Filling

• 400g spinach or Swiss chard, finely chopped

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

METHOD

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil

• 250g smooth, fresh ricotta

• 150g garlic and herb soft goat’s cheese

• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season

• 2 x 280g jars of marinated artichokes, drained

• 1 free-range large egg, beaten for egg wash

• Black sesame or onion seeds, to sprinkle

• Heat the water and milk together until just warm. Add the yeast and caster sugar and stir to combine. Set aside for 5 minutes or until the yeast starts to activate and bubble. Place the flour in a large bowl and make a well in the centre. Add the yeast mixture and oil and stir to incorporate until it comes together to make a dough. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a dish towel or clingwrap and allow to double in size or rise for 1 hour.

• Meanwhile, prepare your stuffing. Heat a pan over a medium heat with the olive oil. Place the spinach and minced garlic into the pan and allow to wilt. Cook until just wilted and bright green, remove and cool. Once cooled, squeeze all excess water from the spinach. Add to a bowl with the ricotta, goat’s cheese, lemon, salt, pepper and 1 jar of chopped artichokes (reserve the other jar for serving). Stir well to combine.

• Preheat the oven to 220°C. Knock the risen dough back, shape and roll on a floured surface into a large circle of approx. 1–1.5cm thick. Place into a Le Creuset 30cm Signature Shallow Casserole. The dough should just overlap the edges once you have tucked in the sides to line the casserole. Using a sharp knife, neatly trim the excess bread dough away. Place the filling in a circle, along the outside of the dish, leaving the centre completely open so that the stuffing creates a wreath-shaped ring nearest to the edges. In the middle, cut 8 even triangle wedges of the dough as you would for a pizza. Carefully fold the triangles back over the filling and pinch to secure at the top. You may need to put it back in the fridge at this stage if your dough has become too warm and wait for it to become easier to handle. Just before baking, score the edge of the dough, brush over egg wash and top with onion or sesame seeds.

• Place into the oven and turn down to 200°C. Bake for 25–30 minutes, remove from the oven and serve with reserved artichokes. Add some olives or a hand-crushed green herb pesto.

SEVILLE ORANGE AND SAGE ROAST DUCK

Cook time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Serving size: 4–6

INGREDIENTS

• 2.3kg whole duck, giblets removed

• Sea salt, to season

• 15ml olive oil

• 4 red onions, quartered

• Half a head of garlic

• 20g fresh sage

• 1 x 300g jar Seville orange marmalade

METHOD

• The night before you cook your duck, it is best to take it out of the packaging and rinse the bird. Pat the duck dry with a kitchen towel and place it on a cooling rack over a baking tray. Allow it to air dry in the fridge overnight.

• The next day, preheat your oven to 220°C/ 210°C fan oven.

• Massage a generous pinch of salt over the skin and drizzle a little bit of olive oil. Place the duck, breast side up in a Le Creuset 31cm Signature Oval Casserole and roast for 20 minutes.

• Remove from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 180°C. Place your garlic, red onions and half of the sage leaves under and around the duck in the casserole and return it to the oven to cook for 1 hour with the lid on.

• Decant the marmalade into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer, allowing it to heat through. Remove the lid of your casserole and roast the duck for another 30 minutes. Then using a basting brush, glaze the duck with half of the marmalade. Return the duck to the oven for 20 minutes uncovered.

• Remove again and carefully arrange the remaining sage leaves along the surface of the duck breasts to create a beautiful pattern. Baste the duck with more marmalade and roast for 10 minutes.

• Allow the duck to rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.

ROAST POTATOES WITH CONFIT GARLIC

Cook time: 2 hours 30 minutes Ÿ Serving size: 4

INGREDIENTS

For the garlic confit oil (makes 1L)

• 6 heads of garlic

• 750ml olive oil

• 3 sprigs of rosemary

• Sea salt, to taste

For the roast potatoes

• 1.5kg russet potatoes, peeled

• 100g butter, cubed

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2–3 sprigs of rosemary

METHOD

• To make the confit garlic oil, preheat your oven to 90°C (fan oven). Cut some of the garlic heads in half (through the cross section of the bulb), leaving the rest whole.

• Add the garlic and olive oil to a Le Creuset Toughened Non-Stick 26cm Square Roaster and place in your preheated oven. Confit slowly for 90 minutes or until the

cloves are soft to the touch. Remove the garlic from the roaster and allow them to cool completely.

• While the garlic is confiting, boil the potatoes in a saucepan until tender; a sharp knife should be able to pierce through the potato without resistance. Drain the water completely. Keep the potatoes in your warm saucepan, add 50g butter, salt and pepper and 60ml of the confit garlic oil. Give the potatoes a good shake until the edges are flu y and roughed up. This give the potatoes a crunchy exterior and soft interior.

• Transfer the potatoes to the same nonstick 26cm Square Roaster (confit garlic oil removed) and drizzle them with an additional 45ml confit garlic oil and the remaining cubed butter. Add some salt and rosemary sprigs. Roast for 45 minutes to an hour, rotating your potatoes every 15 minutes to create a lovely crunchy golden crust. Serve warm and enjoy!

CHERRY LATTICE SKILLET PIE

Cook time: 120 minutes Ÿ Serving size: 6–8

INGREDIENTS

For the sweet pastry

• 250g cake flour, sifted

• 100g icing sugar

• 1 pinch of fine salt

• 200g salted butter, diced and softened

• 2 free-range egg yolks

For the pie

• 1kg frozen cherries

• 100g brown sugar, plus extra for sprinkling

• 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• 1 egg and a splash of milk for the egg wash

• Crème fraîche or vanilla bean ice cream, to serve

METHOD

• To make the sweet pastry: Sift the flour, icing sugar and salt into a large bowl. Using your fingertips, work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles medium-sized breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolks and bring the pastry together. It is important not to overwork the pastry at this point. Wrap the pastry with cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

• To make the pie: Once the pastry is chilled, roll it out between two sheets of baking paper to approximately 5mm thickness. Chill for 20 minutes. Now cut the strips for the top of the pie. You will need 10 2cm x 28cm strips for the latticework. Once cut, place back into the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes. It is important to chill your pastry in-between steps for ease when handling it and for best results when baked.

• Place the cherries in the Le Creuset 26cm Signature Skillet along with the sugar, vanilla and lemon and bring to boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the cherries are soft. Remove the cherries from the cooking liquid and reduce the liquid until slightly syrupy. Place the cherries back in the liquid and turn o the heat. Refrigerate the skillet until cold. This is important for when the pastry is added to the top of the pie as the pastry will melt if the skillet is still warm.

• Once the cherries and skillet are chilled, lattice the chilled pastry over the cherries. Brush with the egg wash and sprinkle with brown sugar. Chill the pie again for 15 minutes.

• Bake at 180°C for 20–30 minutes until the pastry is golden and the cherries are bubbling. Serve warm with whipped crème fraîche or vanilla bean ice cream.

GIFT GUIDE wish list

UNWRAP THE PERFECT BEAUTY GIFT

GATINEAU PLUMP AND PERFECT EYE AND LIP DUO

This targeted duo brightens and smooths the delicate eye area with Miracle Eye Contour Cream (11ml) and plumps, hydrates and treats lips with Defi Lip Volumising Treatment (10ml). Infused with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera, niacinamide, tripeptides and hyaluronic acid, it is a luxurious, ready-to-gift solution for radiant eyes and irresistible lips. R995

MY BEAUTY LUV FACE BLOSSOM

Say hello to South Africa’s first Sakura Flower skincare supplement. My Beauty Luv introduces Face Blossom, a pioneering cherry blossom extract capsule inspired by centuries of Japanese beauty rituals. Harnessing the iconic Sakura’s powerful skin-brightening and anti-ageing properties, this daily supplement helps reveal a complexion that is more luminous, eventoned and youthfully radiant, from the inside out. 160 capsules | R1 020

NUXE THE INFINITE GLOW IN PINK

Give the gift of radiance this festive season with NUXE’s Infinite Glow in Pink set, a luminous trio designed to soften, smooth and illuminate. Featuring the iconic Huile Prodigieuse Or Florale (50ml) for a golden shimmer, the Very Rose Lip Plumping Serum (8ml) for a hydrated, fuller pout and a travel-friendly Huile Prodigieuse Florale (10ml), this chic pink edit is the ultimate glow-giving treat. R1 145

DIEGO

DALLA PALMA ICON TIME ANTI-AGE SET

Give the gift of timeless beauty with Diego Dalla Palma’s Icon Time Anti-Age Set. Featuring the Platinum Skin Renewal Anti-Age Cream (50ml) and Collagen Booster Firming Face Emulsion (50ml), this duo nourishes, firms and revitalises the skin for a radiant complexion. R2 695

SOL DE JANEIRO

BRAZILIAN BUM BUM JET SET

Get irresistibly soft, radiant skin this festive season with Sol de Janeiro’s Brazilian Bum Bum Jet Set. This trio includes the Brazilian Play Hydrating Body Wash, the iconic Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and the sunny Cheirosa 62 Perfume Mist; a full head-to-toe routine infused with cupuaçu butter and caffeine-rich guaranà extract. R750

ECO DIVA THE MICRO MINIS

Gift clean, cruelty-free skincare this festive season with Eco Diva’s The Micro Minis, a travel-friendly collection of five best-selling superfood skincare icons. From radiance-boosting Superfood Face Serum to hydrating Ultimate Face Cream, renewing Ecofoliant Skin Polish, revitalising Liquid Vitamin Hydra Mist and cleansing Natural Face Wash, this compact set delivers a complete skincare ritual in convenient sizes. R485

BENEFIT LIMITED EDITION BENETINT AND

LIP OIL SET

LOUIS VUITTON LA BEAUTÉ

Feel lucky this season with Benefit’s Limited Edition Benetint & Lip Oil Set. Roll the pink, fuzzy dice and reveal your rosy reward: the iconic Benetint RoseTinted Lip and Cheek Stain, the new Beneglaze Rose-Tinted Lip Shine, or both – all tucked inside a charming keepsake beauty bag. Sheer, buildable colour meets nourishing shine for lips and cheeks that are ready to sparkle. R650

Louis Vuitton has stepped into a new era of luxury beauty with La Beauté, a landmark makeup collection conceived by Dame Pat McGrath as creative director. The range includes 55 refillable LV Rouge lipsticks, 10 LV Baume balms and eight LV Ombres eyeshadow palettes, all encased in heirloom-worthy, sustainable packaging by designer Konstantin Grcic. This is more than makeup, it is a legacy in the making, where craftsmanship, innovation and identity converge into objets d’art.

CHANEL N°5 THE WHITE GOLD BODY OIL

Illuminate and scent the skin with Chanel’s N°5 The White Gold Body Oil. Infused with the sensual notes of the iconic N°5 bouquet, this rich, shimmering oil moisturises, softens and leaves a delicate, radiant glow. Encased in a sleek, minimalist bottle with pearly white-gold particles, the limited-edition 250ml size is a luxurious way to experience the timeless allure of N°5 from head to toe. R2 795

Heaven scent

From sparkling florals to bold, seductive notes, these fresh fragrances are the ultimate treat for anyone on your gift list.

KARL

IKONIK: A FRAGRANCE DUO FOR THE MODERN ICON

Karl Lagerfeld introduces Karl Ikonik pour femme and Karl Ikonik pour homme, a distinctive fragrance duo presented in sculptural, chromefinished bottles that echo the designer’s legendary silhouette. The rose-gold feminine edition dazzles with a gourmand floral blend of raspberry, jasmine sambac, tuberose and creamy sandalwood, while the silver masculine counterpart offers an intense ambery fougère, featuring tonka bean, coconut wood, sage and Madagascan ginger. More than perfumes, these are collectible tributes to Karl Lagerfeld’s timeless style, packaged in holographic boxes that celebrate the legacy of one of fashion’s most influential icons. R1 699 | 100ml

MONTBLANC EXPLORER EXTREME

Montblanc takes exploration to new heights with Explorer Extreme, the first parfum in the iconic line. Woody, ambery and leathery, this intense fragrance opens with bergamot and clary sage, unfolds into a hypnotic patchouli and Ambrofix heart and settles on warm amber, leather and vetiver. R2 199 | 100ml

MONTBLANC SIGNATURE ELIXIR

Montblanc Signature Elixir, the most intense expression of the collection, is a floral ambery vanilla fragrance that leaves a lasting impression. Opening with exotic red orchid, warming through vanilla absolute and resins and settling on rich amber woods, it embodies unapologetic femininity. R1 999 | 90ml

JIMMY CHOO I WANT CHOO LE PARFUM

Jimmy Choo introduces I Want Choo Le Parfum, the latest addition to its daring fragrance line. This amber floral woody perfume opens with pear, golden gardenia and blackberry, unfolds into a creamy heart of jasmine, patchouli and ambrette and settles on a warm base of moss amber, sandalwood and praline. R2 819 | 100ml

LACOSTE ORIGINAL POUR FEMME

The feminine counterpart to Lacoste Original, this fruity floral amber fragrance opens with pear, ginger and mandarin, blooms with jasmine and rose and settles on a warm vanilla-amber base. Housed in a sleek pink bottle with gold accents, it captures the effortless elegance and modern energy of the Lacoste woman. R1 699 | 100ml

VALENTINO BORN IN ROMA DONNA GREEN STRAVAGANZA

Valentino’s Born in Roma Donna Green

Stravaganza is a floralambery woody fragrance that celebrates vibrant femininity. Smoky lapsang souchong tea opens the scent, blooming into radiant jasmine absolute and settles on warm, captivating vanilla. Inspired by Rome’s lush gardens, it is an olfactory adventure that invites you to live boldly and express your true self.

R3 350 | 100ml

DOLCE & GABBANA DEVOTION FOR MEN

Celebrating love, loyalty and the joy of life, Devotion For Men is a woody spicy fragrance for the confident, instinct-driven man. Fresh lemon opens the scent, leading to a heart of invigorating coffee and settles on a grounding base of patchouli. Housed in an elegant bottle featuring the iconic Sacred Heart, it is a modern symbol of devotion and strength.

R3 930 | 100ml

COACH GOLD PARFUM

Coach Gold captures sun-drenched brilliance with sparkling pink peppercorn, almond blossom and a sensual vanilla base. Housed in a luminous gold bottle adorned with the iconic Coach ‘C’ charm, this is a radiant fragrance that invites you to unlock your inner glow. R2 355 | 90ml

GUERLAIN FLORABLOOM ABSOLU

Guerlain’s Florabloom Absolus is a unisex 2025 release from the Absolus Allegoria collection, blending tropical fruits, lush florals and warm woody notes. Mango, coconut and mandarin open the scent, leading to a heart of tuberose, ylang ylang, mirabilis and rose and settling on a base of patchouli, incense, moss and sandalwood.

VERSACE CRYSTAL EMERALD

Inspired by the intense green of emerald, Crystal Emerald celebrates confident, unapologetic femininity. Opening with vibrant bergamot, juicy peach and a hint of pink peppercorn, it blooms into green rosebuds, jasmine and raspberry sorbet, before settling on a warm, lasting base of white musk, tonka bean and incense. R2 640 | 80ml

LMC TEA ADVENT CALENDAR TIN

Countdown in style with the LMC Tea Advent Calendar Tin, featuring 24 hand-crafted teas for a daily moment of delight. Housed in a beautifully designed tin, it makes a thoughtful gift for tea lovers, bringing warmth, flavour and joy to every day. R156

TERRES D’AFRIQUE MERU MOON TEA

Home is where the heart is

With red rooibos, honeybush and lavender. Find calm in every cup with Meru Moon, a soothing blend of red rooibos, mineral-rich honeybush, and calming herbs like lemon balm, chamomile and lavender. Infused with coconut, pink cornflowers and aromatic aniseed, this antioxidant-rich tea nurtures stillness and contentment, making it perfect hot or iced. R687 | 100g

TERRES D’AFRIQUE SAVANNAH DEW REED DIFFUSER

With katrafay, vetiver, ravensara and omumbiri Inspired by the first light across Madagascar’s eastern forests, the Savannah Dew Reed Diffuser blends six precious oils into a grounding, aromatic experience. Vetiver’s earthy, smoky freshness anchors the senses, while katrafay adds spiced warmth and ravensara evokes bracing forest mists. Together, these notes conjure the ancient scents of African landscapes, calming the mind, centreing energy and reconnecting you with the steady heartbeat of the Earth. R1 481

HARCK & HEART GINGERBREAD COOKIES

Bring joy to the table with hand-iced gingerbread cookies that are as playful as they are delicious. Jolly Jumbles, for example, are lebkuchen squares that fit together to create Santa, a snowman and a gingerbread friend, turning snack time into a festive activity. Perfect for gifting or family fun, these cheerful cookies offer a delightful mix of creativity, flavour and holiday spirit, sure to spark smiles with every bite. From R55

MAISON MARGIELA REPLICA LAZY SUNDAY MORNING CANDLE

Wake up to serenity with the Lazy Sunday Morning Candle, a floral embrace that captures the gentle comfort of sunlit sheets. Delicate notes of lily of the valley and creamy white musk mingle with iris and ambrette seeds, evoking the sensation of sunlight warming freshly washed cotton. Designed by perfumer Louise Turner, this luxurious candle transforms any space into a tranquil haven, offering over 40 hours of soothing fragrance. Housed in Maison Margiela’s signature white glass with the iconic REPLICA label, this is both a perfuming and decorative statement for your home. R1 400

PAW COUTURE

Dolce & Gabbana’s first fragrance for dogs

Luxury now comes with a wag and a wink.

Dolce & Gabbana has unveiled Fefé, its first-ever alcohol-free fragrance for dogs, a heartwarming creation inspired by Fefé, the beloved canine companion of Domenico Dolce and Guilherme Siqueira.

This debut into the world of pet pampering is more than just a fragrance; it is an ode to the unconditional love, loyalty and joy that dogs bring into our lives.

Crafted by renowned perfumer Emilie Coppermann exclusively for Dolce & Gabbana, Fefé is a delicate mist designed with a dog’s unique sensitivities in mind. It is gentle on the skin, light on the fur and utterly irresistible to the nose.

The scent opens with the warm, comforting embrace of ylang ylang,

soft and nurturing, like a sunlit nap on the couch. A heart of clean, enveloping musk captures that fresh, just-groomed feeling, while creamy sandalwood rounds out the base, adding a touch of timeless sophistication. The result is a fragrance as tender as a cuddle and as elegant as the brand itself.

Dolce & Gabbana Fefé turns everyday rituals – a brush, a bath, a snuggle – into small moments of sensory delight. It is a playful yet refined addition to any pet’s beauty routine, transforming your furry friend’s daily life into something truly Dolce.

Because in the Dolce & Gabbana universe, love and beauty know no bounds, not even between species.

Introduces the C A R O Handbag Collection

A Fusion of Heritage and Modern Elegance

Carolyn Boyes, the niece of Carrol Boyes, steps into the spotlight with this distinctive collection. Following in her aunt’s footsteps, Caro channels her passion for artistry and design into a line of handbags that embody elegance, functionality, and a deep respect for the brand’s artistic roots.

www.carrolboyes.com

Shine ALL SEASON

BIRKENSTOCK HIGH SHINE BIG BUCKLE COLLECTION

Meet the BIRKENSTOCK High Shine Big Buckle Collection, where laid-back luxury gets a radiant twist.

The iconic High Shine Big Buckle, featuring a glossy leather finish, exudes luxury and elevates the ARIZONA, GIZEH and MADRID sandals into fashionable essentials for your summer retreat wardrobe. This season will introduce fresh colours like light rose and soft purple crocus, alongside staples such as new beige and black. E ortlessly cool, a little bold and endlessly weareable ... these sandals are made to stand out.

With over 250 years of craftsmanship behind every pair, BIRKENSTOCK proves true style never truly goes out of season. Grounded in comfort and elevated with design detail, this collection is perfect for sunny days, festive nights and everything in between.

Find your shine in the High Shine Big Buckle Collection, available at select BIRKENSTOCK stores and online at www.bashafrica.com

Heritage IN HAND

THE ARTISTRY OF CARO BOYES HANDBAGS

The Carrol Boyes Luxury Leather Handbag Collection returns to its artistic roots, where sculpture, craftsmanship and functionality converge to create wearable art. Reimagined by Carrol’s niece, Caro Boyes, this latest collection introduces a contemporary vision of leather luxury, where each piece is a harmonious balance of form, material and movement.

Crafted from supple full-grain leather, the collection is punctuated with signature metallic hardware, each piece echoing Carrol’s enduring philosophy of artistry in everyday objects. The curated range – from the sophisticated City Bag and elegant Chain Purse to the compact Phone Pouch and Trifold Wallet – o ers versatility without compromise, marrying sculptural design with practical function.

The collection’s distinctive metallic hardware draws inspiration from three of Carrol’s most iconic motifs.

CRADLE curves with quiet strength, embodying nurturing grace.

TOE TOUCH captures the elegance of balance in motion, poised and e ortless.

DIVER channels bold energy through precise, fearless lines.

Together, these elements celebrate a modern reinterpretation of Carrol’s creative legacy, tactile, soulful and inspired by the human form.

ABOUT CARO BOYES

Caro’s journey began at Stellenbosch University, earning an Honours Degree in Fine Art, before refining her expertise with a Master’s in Luxury Business at the Sotheby’s Institute of Art, London. Since joining Carrol Boyes in 2023 as Designer and Business Development Manager, Caro has risen to Creative Director, infusing the brand with her distinctive perspective and passion for fashion and innovative materials.

Her debut collection reflects the same originality and artistry that established Carrol Boyes as a beacon of exceptional design; an exciting new chapter in a legacy of creativity and craftsmanship.

is now available at carrolboyes.com and in select Carrol Boyes retail stores.

The Caro Boyes Handbag Collection

THE CAPE Sc t

Scoot Squad stylish two-wheel adventures.

There’s a certain magic in the soft hum of a Vespa engine, the kind that whispers freedom, adventure and a dash of Italian swagger. In Somerset West, that magic lives at Scoot Squad, where scooters aren’t just rentals… they’re passports to a completely new way to explore the Cape.

THE CHARM BEHIND THE CHROME

Behind the sunshine-yellow helmets and glossy scooters is Penny Sterley, the powerhouse with a motorcycling pedigree and a passion for bringing people together on two wheels. After years leading BMW Motorrad South Africa, Penny has channelled her expertise into something beautifully simple: helping people rediscover the joy of the open road. The Hermanus branch opens on 6 December and with it Penny o cially gets a partner. Fresh from a 25-year career in investment banking, Anthony Grant is shifting gears to pursue a passion of an entirely di erent kind. Bringing sharp business acumen to Penny’s onthe-ground industry know-how, he’s helping craft a dynamic recipe for success, and plenty of fun along the way. At Scoot Squad, the approach is warm, personal and full of character – a far cry from big-brand, conveyor-belt rentals. Every ride begins with a chat, a laugh, maybe a co ee from their cosy shop and ends with the same question: “Where will you go next?”

WHERE ADVENTURE MEETS ELEGANCE

Scoot Squad is tucked away in Somerset West, perfectly placed between vineyard valleys, mountain curves and coastal panoramas that seem designed for a scooter ride. Their Vespas, charming, polished and photogenic, are ready for every kind of explorer: The Sunrise Cruiser Glide through Strand as the sky blushes pink, stop for a beachfront breakfast and wind back through Gordon’s Bay with the ocean at your side. The Wine-Lover’s Wander Swap Ubers for a Vespa and swoop between vineyards, tasting rooms, farm stalls and hidden gems only locals whisper about. The Slow-Down Seeker Park under a pine tree, read a book, sip a grape juice and savour the moment, because a Vespa makes even stillness feel chic.

STYLE, SAFETY & SERIOUSLY COOL: DESIGNER HELMETS

At Scoot Squad, safety doesn’t mean sacrificing style, especially when it comes to their cool designer helmets available for purchase. These aren’t your typical, plain-Jane riding lids. Think:

■ Bold, colourful graphics that match the Vespa lifestyle

■ Retro-inspired designs with modern safety standards

■ Sleek open-face silhouettes perfect for sun-soaked Cape rides

■ High-quality finishes that look as good on a shelf as they do on the road

READY TO SCOOT?

Scoot Squad has a scooter and maybe your next favourite helmet, waiting.

Scoot Squad Somerset West

067 084 5588 ■ penny@vespassw.co.za

NEW! Scoot Squad Hermanus 061 231 7245 ■ anthony@vespassw.co.za

www.vespassw.co.za @scootsquad_ssw Scoot Squad

A DAY ON THE ROAD: YOUR READY-TO-RIDE CAPE ITINERARY

09:00 Pick Up & Gear Up Grab a coffee at Scoot Squad’s shop, choose your Vespa, browse the iconic helmet wall – you may just fall in love with one.

10:00 Coastal Escape Shoot down to Strand, cruise the promenade and let the sea breeze set the tone.

11:00 The Viewpoint Stop Take the Gordon’s Bay coastal curves slowly – not because you have to, but because you’ll want to.

12:30 Vineyard Lunch Park your Vespa at a nearby wine farm for a sunlit lunch, maybe under a tree or beside a vineyard.

15:00 Browse, Wander, Discover Explore a farm stall, pick up some local produce or wine and make memories as you zoom between tiny roads and quiet corners.

17:00 Cruise Home Golden hour + a Vespa + your new favourite helmet = perfection.

They’ve become something of a signature for Scoot Squad, part fashion statement, part functional gear, all Vespa attitude. Whether you’re buying your first scooter, building a collection, or just want to look the part, these helmets turn every ride into a moment. More than protection, they’re pieces of personality.

WHY EVERYONE’S OBSESSED WITH VESPA RENTALS

■ They make the Cape feel brand-new again

■ Parking is a breeze

■ The photo ops are next-level

■ You don’t drive a Vespa – you live on it

■ And yes… the helmets make every photo look even cooler

From solo travellers to couples to groups of friends planning a weekend escape, Scoot Squad’s rentals have become one of the most joyful ways to experience the Helderberg and beyond.

escape,

GEORGIO MELETIOU

Spier Wine Farm’s sommelier’s guide to the festive

season.

With a career spanning more than 27 years across South Africa and the international wine scene, Georgio Meletiou has become a trusted voice for wine lovers seeking knowledge, discovery and memorable experiences. From six formative years in San Gimignano, Italy, to his role as Southern Sun’s Western Cape regional sommerlier, Georgio has always had a passion for pairing wine with global cuisines and mentoring the next generation of sommeliers.

At Spier Wine Estate, he brings this wealth of expertise to every bottle, guiding guests through tastings and helping them connect with wines in new and exciting ways. “Wine brings people together. The right pairing can take a meal to another level,” he says, emphasising the role wine plays in creating meaningful experiences.

This festive season, Georgio has curated Spier ’s Stock your Holiday Wine Box, a selection designed to cover every festive occasion. From celebrating New Year’s Eve with Cap Classique Brut to pairing 21 Gables Chenin Blanc or Creative Block 2 with your Christmas feast, Georgio’s recommendations turn each meal into a celebration. For dessert, the Noble Late Harvest is the perfect accompaniment and, for Boxing Day, the Signature range o ers a relaxed indulgence with leftover holiday fare.

Georgio highlights some standout wines from the collection

21 Gables Chenin Blanc: Perfect with bold dishes like peri-peri prawns, curry or Portuguese-style chicken. “It’s a gift you can enjoy now or cellar for years.”

Seaward Chardonnay: Classic Chardonnay character with oak that complements rather than dominates. “Seaward Chardonnay has everything: character, balance and versatility.”

Cap Classique Brut: Essential for festive celebrations. “A festive season without Cap Classique? Impossible.”

Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with a special meal or gifted to a loved one, Georgio believes wine is central to the joy of the holiday season. His expert guidance ensures every sip is memorable, every pairing harmonious and every festive moment elevated.

Spier’s Stock your Holiday Wine Box, perfect for gifting or for making your own holidays truly special, is now available online at shop.spier.co.za/collection/curated-cases. Explore the curated selection and bring home the celebration: from signature Chardonnay Pinot Noir and Chenin Blancs to sparkling Cap Classique, each bottle is a testament to Georgio’s passion for exceptional wine experiences.

Kay & Monty Vineyards

2018 CHAMPU

This unwooded Chardonnay Blanc de Blanc was made in the traditional French Méthode Cap Classique, spending 60 months on the lees before its December 2024 release. Light straw in colour, it offers a fresh floral lime and apple nose, with a palate of crisp lime and a lingering brioche finish. R275 per bottle

SIP, SPARKLE celebrate!

Whether you are toasting triumphs, filling stockings with something special or simply spoiling the hosts with a little luxury, nothing says ‘festive cheer’ quite like a beautifully bottled gift. From elegant reds to party-ready bubbles, these standout picks are guaranteed to make every celebration sparkle.

Ernie Els Wines

MAJOR SERIES MERLOT 2022

Radiant plum in colour, this Merlot opens with a flinty, ash-scented bouquet accented by a hint of talc – think boudoir perfume – before revealing rich red and black cherries, plums and a lift of fresh mint. Succulent and slightly creamy, the dark fruit unfolds with delicate vanilla undertones, making it a sophisticated choice for festive dinners. R250 per bottle

Spier SEAWARD CHENIN BLANC 2023

Spier Seaward’s 2023 Chenin

Blanc is a palegold wine with a lemon-rind rim, sourced from the cool Tygerberg Hills and Stellenbosch vineyards. The nose reveals mandarin, ripe peach, floral notes and honeydew, while the palate is complex and balanced, finishing fresh with a zesty lime lift. R150 per bottle

Steenberg Estate 1682 PINOT NOIR CAP CLASSIQUE NV

This Méthode Cap Classique sparkling Rosé from Steenberg delivers a delicate pale-pink hue and a refined, fruitforward bouquet of raspberry jelly, wild strawberry sorbet, red apple skin and toasted brioche. On the palate, it offers a very fine mousse, creamy texture and bright acidity, with a dry, lingering finish. R250 per bottle

Tokara Wine Estate

LIMITED RELEASE PINOTAGE 2023

Tokara’s Limited Release 2023 Pinotage, named Best Pinotage in South Africa, showcases the estate’s signature precision and Stellenbosch terroir. Expect rich, layered red and dark berry fruit, complemented by subtle spice and velvety tannins, leading to a long, elegant finish. A refined and expressive Pinotage.

La Motte VIN DE JOIE ROSÉ 2025

La Motte’s Vin de Joie Rosé 2025 is a vibrant blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Shiraz from premium Western Cape vineyards. Salmon pink in the glass, it offers aromas of melon, grapefruit, nectarine and a hint of candy floss. On the palate, it is remarkably rounded for a dry Rosé, with elegant minerality and a lingering finish of fresh nectarine. R125 per bottle

Babylonstoren

SPRANKEL CAP

CLASSIQUE 2019

Groot Phesantekraal

SPARKLING CHENIN

BLANC 2025

Groot Phesantekraal’s debut Sparkling Chenin Blanc 2025 is a lightbodied, refreshing celebration in a bottle. Lively and vibrant, it offers tangy notes of guava, pear and citrus, with a creamy texture from six months on the lees. Perfect for summer sipping, this sparkling wine pairs beautifully with sushi, lightly spiced seafood or aromatic curries. R130 per bottle

De Grendel DE TIJGER MERLOT 2022

De Grendel’s De Tijger Merlot 2022 is a bold, structured interpretation of South African Merlot. Deep ruby in the glass, it opens with aromas of black cherries, dark plums, cassis, cedar, mocha and a hint of tomato leaf. The palate is rich yet elegant, with plush dark fruit framed by fine tannins, balanced acidity and lingering notes of blackberry, espresso and dark chocolate. Hand-harvested and matured 18 months in French oak, this limited-production wine (only 4,500 bottles) showcases the estate’s Tygerberg terroir and promises a graceful decade of ageing. R350 per bottle

This elegant Méthode Cap Classique from Babylonstoren brings a luminous pale-straw hue with green glints. On the nose, it offers ginger, green apple, candied citrus and quince, evolving into richer aromas of brioche, caramelised apricot and toasted nuts. On the palate, a fine, creamy mousse is beautifully balanced by delicate acidity, revealing notes of lime zest, grapefruit, passion fruit and subtle mineral undertones. R810 per bottle with a creamy texture the lees. Perfect for

Wrapped in words

25 ALIVE

25 Alive

From heartwarming novels to inspiring non-fiction, the right book is more than a gift – it’s a journey, a spark, a conversation waiting to happen. Whether for the avid reader or the casual page-turner, our curated selection ensures there is something for every bookshelf and every story lover this season.

ALWAYS REMEMBER: THE BOY, THE MOLE, THE FOX, THE HORSE AND THE STORM

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm by Charlie Mackesy revisits the beloved world of his iconic four friends. Faced with dark clouds and uncertainty, the boy leans on the wisdom of his companions and a good slice of cake, to remember what truly matters when life feels stormy. This is a tender meditation on love, loss and resilience. Cover price: R585

(Women’s Murder Club #25) is a gripping thriller by James Patterson

(co-written with Maxine Paetro) in which detective Lindsay Boxer faces a deeply personal loss. Her former partner, Warren Jacobi, is found brutally murdered in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. Shocked by the recognition, Lindsay discovers Jacobi left behind a chilling clue. With the Women’s Murder Club, she embarks on a tense investigation along the west coast, determined to catch his killer before there is another victim. Cover price: R275

THE WOLF KING

In The Wolf King , author Lauren Palphreyman weaves a tale of forbidden love and high-stakes adventure. On the eve of her wedding, Princess Aurora spares a young werewolf’s life, inadvertently drawing the attention of the formidable alpha, Callum. When he whisks her away to the northern lands where rival wolf clans are uniting, Aurora must navigate a world of shifting loyalties, hidden dangers and a growing, irresistible attraction. Caught between duty and desire, with war raging on all sides, she faces a choice: return to the life she knows or embrace a fate she never imagined. Cover price: R395

DAILY GLIMMERS

Daily Glimmers by Bridget McNulty is a gentle, pocketsized self-help book that teaches you to notice tiny moments of joy – or glimmers –every day. With more than 1 000 short reflections, linedrawn illustrations and simple exercises, it guides you to build resilience and lift your mood through small, fleeting pleasures. Cover price: R320

GONE BEFORE GOODBYE

Gone Before Goodbye by Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben follows Maggie McCabe, a once renowned army combat surgeon shattered by loss, who accepts a risky job treating a mysterious patient in a life of opulence. However, when he vanishes under her care, Maggie must go on the run or risk being the next one to disappear.

Cover price: R395

THE CLEANER

The Cleaner by Mary Watson is a dark and gripping psychological thriller. Esmie, posing as a humble cleaner in a wealthy gated community, is really on a mission: to expose the secrets of the rich and get revenge on the person who destroyed her life. What she uncovers is more than dust, it is a sinister web of privilege, deception and deeply hidden truths.

Cover price: R250

UPWARDS

Upwards by Karen Dudley is a celebration of mindful cooking and simple pleasures. With a vibrant collection of recipes and thoughtful insight, the book encourages slowing down, savouring flavours and lifting everyday meals into meaningful experiences. Cover price: R450

THIEF OF NIGHT

Thief of Night by Holly Black spins a dark, modern fantasy about Charlie Hall, a former con artist who traded her freedom to a secretive cabal in order to protect her boyfriend, Vince, now lost to a memorywiped shadow form named Red. As the cabal’s new hierophant, Charlie is forced to hunt rogue shadows while navigating a dangerous web of deceit, betrayal and her own untrustworthy shadow. Haunted and vulnerable, she must solve a brutal church massacre or risk losing everything, including the one person she is desperate to save. Cover price: R395

YOUR HEALTH STARTS IN YOUR GUT

Your Health Starts in Your Gut by Mpho Tshukudu shows how a healthy gut can transform your overall wellbeing. Packed with easy, delicious recipes, a 10-day meal plan and practical tips on sleep, stress and movement, this is a complete guide to nourishing your body from the inside out. Cover price: R380

JURASSIC JURASSIC

I think all South Africans’ hearts skip a beat when we discover a sliver of home abroad and if you are willing to look, there is plenty of the Mzanzi magic to be found. After a recent visit to Babylonstoren’s UK property, The Newt, a fellow journalist asked if I’d been to the other stylish farm that was proudly South Africanowned. Needless to say, it was not long before the car was again pointed towards the south-east of England, this time to the Jurassic Coast. BY

JARED RUTTENBERG

JURASSIC COAST SLOW LUXURY ON THE JURASSIC COAST

While no behemoths cruise the region today, a dramatic and fossilised coastline is befitting of the name and minutes inland, a notable farmstay. Louma Country Hotel is the northern hemisphere cousin of Johannesburg’s Saxon Hotel and Spa, owned by the same family. Husband and wife Louis and Emma are the proud custodians and narrated the story of Louma’s genesis.

“When we first discovered the property, we didn’t actually know the area well at all. We were living in America and when the details were sent, we initially said, ‘This is not going to work for us.’ We asked our friends and family to go and visit so we could understand what all the fuss was about. After they visited, their reactions were synonymous: ‘You really need to come and see this place, because you won’t believe the view.’”

Needless to say, they subsequently visited and fell in love. Barely a year open, Louma encompasses around 100 acres of beautiful English countryside. The farmhouse stares proudly over the land: vineyards and fields that cascade down the property and in the far distance, a strip of ocean is the reminder of the shoreline, a 10-minute drive away. All this, circled by bands of ingenious woodland, lend it an enchanted feel.

Louma follows a line of ‘back to the land’ immersive stays, aimed at helping guests reconnect with themselves and the land. There is an unpretentious elegance that makes you feel comfortable enough to put your feet up on the sofas, ask the gardener a question in person or watch food being prepared in the farmhouse kitchen. Best of all: the farm does not permit day visitors, so the entire property is exclusively for you and the handful of other guests privileged to stay.

FRESH FROM THE FARM

With England’s changing macro climate, a perfect microclimate near the coast and chalky soil similar to Champagne, there is been a meteoric rise in English sparkling wine. Louma’s vines currently produce between seven and 22 tonnes of fruit each

year, depending on the season. Made nearby in Kent by Nick Lane (who brings experience from French heavyweights Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Dom Pérignon), the wine is then cellared at the estate. The bottles are currently available on-site only, adding to their desirability.

Operations and Projects Executive

Michelle Parish guided us on a hands-on and delicious tour; initially through the verdant vineyards, tasting the pre-harvest grapes, then to the cellar to sample the wines. First up, the Cuvée with fine bubbles and a golden hue, having spent two years on lees. The Rosé also displayed a classic French profile with a rose gold colour. The still Chardonnay was the best I have yet tasted in the UK, with citrus and pear notes and a balanced acidity. Lastly, my favourite: the Pinot Noir’s perfumed nose bursting with rose petals, followed by hints of delicate red fruits.

The vineyards form part of the larger farm, which Head of Farming Rachel Hayball helped me understand as we wandered about in her buggy. Our tour included feeding the hens (the Frizzle Pekin Bantam being a particularly fashionable fowl if there ever was one), meeting the dairy cows and followed by inquisitive sheep.

None of the poultry, animals or produce from the gardens is sold; instead, it sustains the farm. This supports the farm-to-table

and nose-to-tail philosophy that underpins Louma’s dining experiences. With all meals included during the stay, guests are encouraged to enjoy breakfast spreads, lunch bu ets and daily-changing dinner menus.

The Wellness Barn invites relaxation with a sauna and heated indoor and outdoor pools. The large wooden structure is mesmerising, especially in the soft morning and evening light, with gentle rays creating a dreamy, almost mystical scene. The barn

also houses an impressive gym, filled with all kinds of fitness equipment. No surprise, considering Emma is a personal trainer and Louis has a passion for MMA. Perhaps the highlight is the two adjacent shepherd huts, where dedicated therapists work diligently to melt away tension and stress.

As important as food, sustainability and wellness were in Louis and Emma’s vision for Louma, headspace was also central: “Nature walks, farm tours, horse riding and beautiful vistas; all of which we believe are reasons for people to escape to the country. If guests don’t leave feeling calm and reset, then we have not accomplished our mission.”

COASTING ALONG

When it’s time to venture further, Lyme Regis – a ectionately called the ‘Pearl of Dorset’ - is just minutes away. With its historic harbour, fossil-strewn beaches and stunning views of the Jurassic Coast,

it is perfect for beachcombing, coastal walks and exploring England’s geological history.

Only an hour away, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are two of the most breathtaking spots on the Jurassic Coast. Lulworth Cove has a unique circular bay with crystal-clear waters and, from here, a short hike takes you to the dazzling limestone arch of Durdle Door for jaw-dropping photo ops. I couldn’t help but feel transported to South Africa’s Wild Coast, where striking land peninsulas and rolling green hills also tumble into the ocean.

After a day of exploring, back at Louma, the boma firepit is lit and I am admiring the sunset cast over the vineyards and sea. A sta member approaches and o ers me a Lemon Verbena Margarita. ‘It’s our signature cocktail,’ he says with a faintly familiar accent. ‘Jy’s Afrikaans?’ I ask. ‘Natuurlik,’ he replies. Sipping the citrusy drink, I feel completely at peace, with an uncanny sense of being truly at home.

loumacountryhotel.co.uk

POWER PRESENCE PERFORMANCE

The TOYOTA GR Sport Fortuner Experience.

BY LAUREN ZUIDEMA

A

s soon as I got behind the wheel of the GR Sport Fortuner, I felt a rush of confidence, this is not just any SUV, it’s a statement on the road. From the moment I drove past other cars, I could feel the presence it commands: the bold grille, muscular stance, black accents and sporty 18-inch GR wheels make it impossible to ignore. People notice and honestly, that adds to the thrill of driving it.

Under the hood, the 2.8 litre GD 6 turbodiesel engine produces 165 kW and 550 Nm of torque, flowing through a 6-speed automatic to all four wheels. Every time I accelerate, especially when overtaking or climbing inclines, I feel grounded and in control; it is powerful, yet composed.

What impresses me most is how the GRtuned suspension strikes the right balance. It’s firmer than a standard Fortuner, but not so sti that it becomes uncomfortable, I still feel composed over corrugated gravel or potholestrewn suburban roads. On twistier stretches, the body roll is typical for a tall SUV, but there is noticeable composure when you lean on Sport mode, which sharpens throttle response.

Inside, the GR Sport is a smart mix of ruggedness and racier touches. The black-and-red theme, GR sports seats in suede and leather with red stitching and a red-marked centre on the steering wheel give you the feeling of driving something tuned for performance. The GR start button is a fun reminder every time you fire it up.

On the road, that added power gives real confidence. When towing or hauling, the torque lets me feel fully in control. On long highway trips, the adaptive tech and solid 4×4 system make me feel secure; the GR Sport still has that classic Fortuner DNA of being capable o -road. Fuel consumption is not cheap, around 10–11 L/100 km, but I am willing to pay that for the driving confidence and road presence it brings.

Safety-wise, it does not disappoint: Toyota Safety Sense, seven airbags and o -road aids like downhill assist and traction control give peace of mind on any terrain.

If I were to sum it up: driving the GR Sport Fortuner makes me feel powerful and in control. It’s not a stealthy cruiser, it is bold, sporty and fully aware of its own strength. For anyone who loves the practicality of a Fortuner but craves a performance edge, this feels like the perfect finale to this generation.

STOCKISTS

AVÈNE www.eau-thermale-avene.co.za

BENEFIT ARC stores

BIODERMA www.bioderma.co.za

BIRKENSTOCK www.bashafrica.com

CARROL BOYES www.carrolboyes.com

CHANEL www.chanel.com

COUNTRY ROAD www.woolworths.co.za

DIEGO DALLA PALMA www.orleanscosmetics.co.za

ECO DIVA www.ecodiva.co.za

FUTUREME www.futuremeworld.com

G-STAR www.g-star.com

GATINEAU www.orleanscosmetics.co.za

H&M www.bashafrica.com

HARCK & HEART www.harckandheart.co.za

HERMES www.bhhboutique.co.za

KAT VAN DUINEN www.katvanduinen.com

LMC www.lizemoutoncollection.com

LAIFEN www.laifentech.co.za

LE CREUSET www.lecreuset.co.za

LOUIS VUITTON www.louisvuitton.com

MANGO www.superbalist.com

MAMERE CONFECTIONS www.mamere.co.za

MONDAY HAIR Bash, Clicks, Superbalist

MOROCCANOIL www.moroccanoil.com

MY BEAUTY LUV www.mybeautyluv.com

NISHLADY www.nishlady.com

NUXE www.orleanscosmetics.co.za

POETRY www.poetrystores.co.za

PICHULIK www.pichulik.com

RAY-BAN www.sunglasshut.com

REPLICA www.woolworths.co.za

SEALAND GEAR www.sealandgear.com

SOL DE JANEIRO ARC stores

SUPERBALIST www.superbalist.com

TOM FORD www.sunglasshut.com

TERRES D’AFRIQUE www.terres-dafrique.com

WOOLWORTHS www.woolworths.co.za

FRAGRANCES can be found at ARC stores, Foschini, Skins and Woolworths