Aspire Lifestyle Winter 2022

ASPIRE LIFESTYLE

OF THE BEST (AND NEWEST) RESTAURANTS TO VISIT IN SA

FAMILY BUSINESS

FOODIE INDULGENCE

ROMANCE

www.mercedes-benz.co.za

Model: Chanique Rabe Miss Supranational 2021

Collection Bellagio Fleur

Bellagio Fleur, our signature collection is inspired by the accomplished woman. Much like a ower, she is both delicate and determined, feminine and erce, beautiful inside and out. Hand nished in either 18ct Rose or White Gold, it takes a special combination of round brilliant and baguette shaped diamonds to form each precise petal in Bellagio Fleur.

18ct Rose Gold Claw Set Fleur Diamond Necklace Features a total diamond weight of 0.60ct

R 91 990

HOW CAN YOU STAY CONNECTED BUT NEVER DISTRACTED?

We questioned the conventions of connectivity in the new RX. Featuring a Remote Touch centre console, voice-activated navigation and a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Driving has never been more intuitive.

... WINTER IS THE TIME FOR COMFORT, FOR GOOD FOOD AND WARMTH... – EDITH SITWELL

EDITOR’S NOTE

As much as I love summer and the energy it brings with it, winter is by far my favourite season. It’s a time that reminds me of past winter getaways overseas; the constant smell of log fires that permeate the air; the invitation to open a new book accompanied by a delicious glass of red wine; and, of course, it’s the season to bring out our winter woollies and embrace the season’s fashion trends: coats, boots, the lot.

This issue of Aspire Lifestyle reveals all of this season’s new styles in the worlds of fashion and décor. We reveal contemporary bathroom designs and dive into some gorgeous home interiors. We uncover brand-new looks from Guess and Vogue, and lust after recently released fragrances. If you know me at all, by now, you will have realised I am absolutely and unapologetically fragrance obsessed…

We have also featured a wedding guide that shares insight on the latest trends, our fave venues, exquisite bridalwear statement dresses, and tips from lauded event specialist and master creator of all things beautiful, Zavion Kotze.

You might be tempted to stay home as the weather cools – and

we have just the wine and book recommendations to keep you company if you do so – but there are plenty of must-visit restaurants that may just tempt you outside.

In addition, if you’re craving some international travel inspiration, be sure to read our feature on New Zealand and all that the beautiful country o ers.

Winter can take its toll on our health and wellness, so we’ve put together some features to keep you looking and feeling good. Don’t miss our top winter haircare tips and our breakdown of vitamins and their benefits. You might also be interested to learn more about birthstones and the properties they are believed to hold.

As always, we have just loved creating this issue of Aspire Lifestyle for you. We hope you enjoy exploring these pages.

Stay warm, and happy reading!

The Land of the Long White Cloud. Turn to page 142 for our favourite getaways in New Zealand.

THE TEAM

MANAGING EDITOR

Lauren Zuidema

ART DIRECTOR

Bianca-Leigh Nagel

PROOFREADER

Margy Beves-Gibson

COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES

vann@aspirelifestyle.co.za

CONTRIBUTORS

Emile Joubert

Jared Ruttenberg

Jennifer Campbell

Robyn Alexander

Thea Beckman

Tracy Lynn Chemaly

Vann van Staden

IMAGES

Supplied, Unsplash, Pexel, DepositPhotos

COVER

Deila by MillaNova at Vonvé Bridal Couture

DISTRIBUTION

Distribution: Community Life Media, On The Dot

PUBLISHED BY

Aspire Lifestyle (Pty) Ltd 021 712 3842

Aspire Lifestyle supports Greenpop, a non-profit organisation, on a mission to (re)connect people with our planet. We are committed to plant 50 trees with every issue. www.greenpop.org

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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.

Style edit

Style edit

FOR HIM

Aviator X SGH Exclusive Chromance | Ray-Ban | R3 600

Dax check scarf | Tread+Miller | R299

Dean relaxed-fit jeans Scotch & Soda | R3 099

Jacquard pullover | Diesel R3 899

Vinyl-effect trucker jacket Diesel | R6 999

Graydon leather chukka shoes Timberland | R2 299

Rebel Tiger bracelet | Thomas Sabo | R3 225

Slim fit rich tan chinos Country Road | R799

Graphic organic cotton T-shirt Scotch & Soda R999

Naturally glam

FASHION

MUSE AND MODEL HAILEY BIEBER HAS JOINED FORCES WITH VOGUE EYEWEAR ON A CO-DESIGNED

COLLECTION.

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

Model and YouTube sensation Hailey Bieber has made a name for herself in global fashion, and her latest project has just been announced – a collaboration with Vogue Eyewear that’s all about style.

With over 40 million followers on Instagram, Hailey Bieber is one of the most sought-after models of her generation. She has appeared on numerous magazine covers worldwide, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle. Some of Hailey’s most recent work includes starring in campaigns for Ti any & Co, Saint Laurent and Jimmy Choo. She has also featured in campaigns for Versace and served as a global ambassador for beauty brand bareMinerals.

Now, Hailey has come together with Vogue Eyewear as an ambassador and creative partner for the launch of the exclusive Hailey Bieber X Vogue Eyewear collection. The collection was designed to frame

authentic beauty with celebrity style for a naturally gorgeous and fun aesthetic.

Vogue Eyewear is well known for its unique designs and this collaboration sees a focus on options that can fit with any aesthetic style. The collection plays with earthy tones, striking shapes and fine metal and includes eight signature looks. Expect design elements like faceted rims, sharp angles, subtle detailing and shades of beige, earthy blue, hunter green and metal tones. Each of the frames comes with a dedicated signature logo on the temple and a custom-made carry pouch.

The campaign itself was shot in a stunning villa and is focused on fashion and fun. Hailey describes the collaboration as a project that was particularly special to her. “I was able to work with the team to co-design frames that felt natural but still fashion-forward and fun,” she says.

Specialists in fine and decorative art and design, silver, jewellery, diamonds, gemstones, furniture, classic cars, numismatics and philately since 1968

Diane Veronique Victor (South African 1964 - ): TROJAN III - Est R7 000 – R10 000 - Sold for: R23 910

Jacobus Hendrik Pierneef (South African 1886 - 1957) LANDSCAPE

A unique vision

Cape

Town-based artist

Nico Krijno works with several mediums to explore the process of creation and the spaces in between.

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

Contemporary artist Nico Krijno works with staged photography, collage, video and performance to create pieces that are nonlinear and playful. His creative process is an investigation of visual codes, symbols and patterns, as well as the history of the image.

Nico has a background in theatre and experimental video but began to focus his energy on the visual arts around 2008. Through his work, he pushes the boundaries of various mediums, often exploring photography, performance and sculpture in unique ways. This creative process opens up intertextual dialogues between his artworks, which keeps the pieces surprising and challenging to the viewer.

Nico often uses discarded found materials, which he reorganises and interprets in new ways. He believes this found debris to have its own built-in aesthetic, which can then be unearthed and explored through his constructions. While interested in sculpture and form, Nico’s primary concern, he says, is “the transformation created

by the camera – the thing becoming something else”. He loves the mystery of the creative process and describes his intellectual curiosity through experimentation as the only aspect of the process that he really values. “The day I start knowing where the work is going, I would stop,” he says.

Nico works from his home on a farm outside Cape Town, where he lives with his wife and daughters. Some of his most recent works include a series of lockdown collages created during the pandemic in 2020. Like all of his work, the pieces are multi-layered and brightly coloured and take on a non-linear, lively aesthetic.

Nico’s work has been shown locally and abroad and can be found in several public and private collections worldwide, including spaces in Amsterdam, New York, Buenos Aires and London. He works on private commissions, as well as commercial and editorial projects. Nico is currently finishing work on a book of his new collage work, which will be released in July. www.nicokrijno.com

“The day I start knowing where the work is going, I would stop.”

CREATIVE WITH clay

If you ever wondered what the big deal with clay ceramics is, watch the movie Ghost (1990). Trust us. Failing that, throw yourself (plus a group of friends) at an experience at any of the country’s many Clay Cafés, and you’ll see just how much fun it is to spend an afternoon or evening painting pottery, accompanied by delicious wine, food and music. Even better, you’ll emerge from the experience with a keepsake you can use!

At Clay Café – Hout Bay and Bree Street, Cape Town; The Red Barn, Olifantsfontein; Lone Hill and Hyde Park, Johannesburg and others – the mission is to teach adults and kids to express their creativity and learn a new skill. You begin by choosing from a vast range of unfired bisque pieces, from mugs, plates, and serving bowls to espresso cups, pots and more. Then, under the watchful eye and guidance of an experienced craftsperson, you’ll paint that piece (or pieces) to be uniquely yours. Once you’re satisfied, you’ll leave your creation behind to be fired and glazed, to be collected at a later time.

The studio fee (usually about R40 pp) covers the cost of the paints, tools, firing and glazing process, with an additional amount of R55 to R380 depending on the size and shape of the item you intend to paint. Each café has a slightly di erent o ering; for example, Clay Café in Bree Street, Cape Town, leans more towards adults, particularly in the evenings, while Hout Bay is more family and kid-centric with its impressive playground.

Franschhoek MYSTERY WEEKENDS

Since its conception in 2012, Franschhoek’s Mystery Weekends have truly become a bucket list item for food and wine lovers. With world-class wineries and fine dining establishments scattering the valley like autumnal leaves – all framed by vineyard-carpeted hills and dramatic mountains – Franschhoek consistently delivers an exceptional standard of hospitality and cuisine. So, you can trust that, mystery or not, it’s going to be great.

How does it work? For R6 350 or R8 650 per couple, depending on the package you choose, you and one very lucky person get to enjoy an allinclusive Winelands getaway, where much of the day has been meticulously planned for you. From luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine and among the best wines the Cape has to o er to unique, bespoke Franschhoek experiences, it is all taken care

of. (The confirmed dates for this year are 3–5 June, 26–28 August, and 30 September–2 October.)

It all starts with a glass of wine and your special Mystery Weekend box, which unravels all the exciting details of your stay. Of course, you’ll also have time to explore Franschhoek on your own, giving you ample opportunity to experience the town’s constellation of art galleries, artisanal chocolatiers, and arts and crafts stores, perfumeries and the village market.

One might question the prospects of a mystery weekend, where you pay a set fee for a fully planned, fully accommodated, and fully catered experience without knowing a single thing about where you’re going and what you’ll be doing. But when your playground is the exquisitely beautiful Franschhoek, the fine dining capital of the Cape, if not the country, then you can take our money, thank you very much!

Decorex Africa

Decorex Africa is back! Only this time, it has a slightly new agenda, thanks to the lessons learnt during the pandemic. The pinnacle of the annual design calendar in South Africa, Decorex Africa is the ultimate forum for 800+ design, décor, appliance, home, kitchen and hardware brands from all over the country to flex their product ranges, services and latest innovations.

Hosted by the CTICC in Cape Town (16–19 June) and Sandton CC in Johannesburg (28–31 July), the expo continues to champion design that reimagines the world as we know it and a world that could be. But now, it also deeply integrates virtual infrastructure, making it a truly hybrid and relevant experience that embraces sophisticated e-commerce editorial platforms and media services, which fuel the growth of the African design and décor industry.

For exhibitors, Decorex Africa is both visionary and supportive; a launchpad for new concepts and products and a compost heap of creativity. For visitors, is it wholly inspiring – the source of fire for your next project – whether you’re a homeowner with plans to remodel, an architect on the hunt for more environmentally conscious building materials, or an interior designer soaking up new ideas. It’s also a beehive for networking and a rather decent place to grab some delicious food and beverages when you need refreshment.

With its mission to inspire and support the creation of design that challenges conventions and meets the demands of the future, there’s a reason Decorex Africa has become the country’s and continent’s annual go-to event for everything design.

Chef Jess van Dyk

The ascension of a true culinary star. BY THEA BECKMAN

Many childhoods are coloured with the memory of food; fiercely guarded recipes handed from generation to generation, mom’s macaroni and cheese (which made Mondays feel like birthdays), and rambunctious family gatherings around tables groaning with festive fare. But Jess van Dyk’s childhood takes fragrant memories of food to a di erent level. Forget Power Rangers and Pokémon: Jess’ heroes were BBC Food chefs like Nigella Lawson, Rick Stein and Gary Rhodes. Is it any surprise then that this country girl from the Northern Cape would go on to become head chef at La Colombe in Constantia, one of the country’s, continent’s, and world’s best restaurants? And then to start her very own fine dining restaurant in the beating heart of Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands? The answer is most definitively no!

OLYMPIC TRAINING, COME FULL CIRCLE

Despite her family’s concerns about the brutally demanding nature of high-end kitchens, Jess threw herself into an education at the prestigious Silwood School of Cookery in Cape Town. And where did she decide to complete her first internship? None other than South Africa’s Mount Olympus of fine dining: La Colombe, where she completed her third year Grande Diploma under the watchful tutelage of executive chef Scot Kirton before climbing the ranks to sous chef.

After four years, Jess bid farewell to La Colombe to pursue fresh culinary learning curves, which would include recipe development, food styling, food photography and videography with Source Food and Concepts, as well as working as a private chef on a luxury yacht in the Mediterranean. Eleven months and a tan later, Jess returned to South Africa to take her rightful place, once again, coming full circle, at the helm of La Colombe… but this time, as head chef.

FROM WAKING NIGHTMARE TO DREAM

Chef Jess van Dyk headed La Colombe’s kitchen for two years when, in 2019, she made the move to the casual fine-dining eatery, Protégé in Franschhoek. Mere months later, COVID-19 struck, bringing South Africa’s restaurant industry to its knees. Yet, in the midst of the struggle to keep restaurants open, Jess – like so many of us – took stock of her life and, from the waking nightmare that was the global pandemic, began to manifest her dream to open her own restaurant. Three months later, Jess signed a lease on Stellenbosch’s Old Post O ce on the corner of Bird and Plein streets, and with restaurant manager Dimitri Hadzigrigoriou by her side, Post & Pepper was conceived. Jess o cially opened her restaurant’s doors in February of this year, a fine-dining eatery without the starch, sti upper lip, or startling price tags. ‘Fun-dining’. The menu here o ers diners a seasonal, everchanging smorgasbord that pleases the scepticism out of regulars while still o ering a worthy challenge to the chefs in the kitchen. (This makes perfect sense when you consider that chasing challenges has become somewhat of a hallmark of her career.) Refined but casual, Post & Pepper delivers a food experience that strikes a delectable balance between comfortable elegance and creative familiar favourites.

A STAR ASCENDED

From the steamy, fragrant kitchens of her childhood to having total creative freedom over her beautiful restaurant, it’s clear that Jess van Dyk is more than just one of South Africa’s hottest rising chefs. She has already arisen, broken the horizon and assumed her rightful place among the stars, and the light of her arrival is truly dazzling.

Must visit

Recent additions to South Africa’s foodie scene you just have to visit. BY

THEA BECKMAN

POST & PEPPER

Filling the old Stellenbosch Post O ce with the heady fragrance of her world-class gastronomy is chef Jess van Dyk – previously of La Colombe, Silvermist Estate and Protégé in Franschhoek – and her solo restaurant venture, Post & Pepper. This fine dining eatery playfully reimagines firm South African favourites without the starch, snobbery and steep pricing. Think potato ‘roosterkoek’ with whipped butter, sage oil, and pickles; smoked springbok with duck liver parfait, onion marmalade, beetroot and hazelnuts; and Cape Malay cauliflower with coconut, lime and ‘slangetjies’. Is your mouth watering yet?

Stellenbosch, Winelands | www.postandpepper.co.za

No matter the season, South Africa’s robust and ever-flourishing food scene continues to give locals and visitors a steady, delectable stream of novelty to keep us enthralled. From the enchanting Winelands of the Cape to Johannesburg’s concrete jungle, here are this season’s musttry restaurants.

THE CHEVERELLS FARM CAFÉ

What used to be an old 1960’s apple-packing shed in the verdant heart of the Elgin Valley has been transformed into a rustic yet elegant venue, where the hungry will discover the Cheverells Farm Café. Chef Laura Truter’s breakfast and lunch menu is a living ode to the hyperfresh fare grown or produced in this valley and the Cape, boasting kaleidoscopic salads, salmon poké bowls, and indulgent breakfasts, farmer’s platters, homemade granola, apple and frangipani tarts, and more. Perhaps a glass of local Elgin Valley wine or L-Gin appleflavoured craft gin to wash it down?

Elgin, Overberg | www.cheverellsfarm.com

DE EETKAMER

The arrival of De Eetkamer in the historic heart of Stellenbosch has breathed new life into yet another of this town’s gorgeous and atmospheric heritage buildings. The brainchild of chef Marco Cardoso, the menu here is a celebration of small plates of immaculately curated colours, flavours and textures. No cuisine is off-limits, so diners can expect all manner of international surprises, from fragrant Moroccan meatballs, Southeast Asian pork belly, and red pepper risotto to trout ceviche and chocolate ganache with Oreos.

Stellenbosch, Winelands www.de-eetkamer.co.za

UKKŌ

Fancy a midweek or weekend escape to the sunbathed shores of the Mediterranean? Lunch or dinner at Ukkō is as close as you can get without hitching a ride on an aeroplane. This stylish Mediterranean eatery in Bryanston specialises in tapas and modern signature sushi dishes, with an extensive wine list and mixology bar menu to boot. What are you in the mood for? Camembert in phyllo, marinated aubergine, roasted bone marrow pangrattato, lamb riblets, fish and prawn croquettes, grilled octopus, pistachio ice cream or tiramisu? No need to choose. Order it all! Bryanston, Johannesburg www.ukkorestaurant.co.za

THE TEST KITCHEN CARBON

It was chef Luke Dale Roberts who put South Africa on the world’s culinary radar by earning a place on the 50 Best Restaurants list with his smashing success, The Test Kitchen. Now, this internationally acclaimed restaurant has been reimagined and reincarnated on a pedestrianised piazza in Rosebank’s Oxford Parks precinct. Diners can expect an evening of explosively innovative yet immaculately skilful fine dining, the likes of which will leave a lasting impression. A procession of mind-blowing dishes in an intimate venue, catered to by an army of chefs, servers and sommeliers, The Test Kitchen Carbon proudly continues chef Luke Dale Roberts’ legacy. Randburg, Johannesburg www.thetestkitchencarbon.co.za

WILDSPROUT

For the love of green and all that is healthy, a meal at Wildsprout is just the ticket. Located at the Constantia Village Courtyard, this whole food café and grocer serves up delicious and wholly guiltfree meals to please even the most discerning clean eaters. From breakfast bowls, zucchini fritters, vegan croissants and toasted superfood sarmies to wraps, smoothies, smoothie bowls, juices and shots, a meal here is the ultimate bodily atonement. Afterwards, stop at their pantry to stock up with fresh produce and frozen meals.

Constantia, Cape Town | www.wsprout.co.za

LIGHT & DARK

Cape Town’s coastal strip provides the ideal location for an elegant apartment that transitions from day to night through a clever use of space, colour and furnishings.

TEXT TRACY LYNN CHEMALY

PRODUCTION SVEN ALBERDING

PHOTOGRAPHS ELSA YOUNG

It’s uncommon for a home to be designed according to the di erent times or moods of the day, but for Andrea Bowman, this consideration became apparent as the renovation of her Cape Town apartment got underway. Through collaboration with interior designers Bruce Fyfe and Kelsey Boyce of Fyfe Boyce, the four-bedroom abode on Sea Point’s vibrant coastal strip was reconfigured into a spacious three-bedroom residence that caters for every daily hour – from cosy co ee starts to meditative sunsets.

‘It was like a rabbit warren before,’ Andrea says of the need to renovate. ‘Now it’s a real glam pad,’ Kelsey comments on the transformation of what was once a cramped environment with a narrow passageway and tiny, cordoned-o rooms.

‘We tried to create more interest from a depth perspective,’ Bruce explains of opening up the living areas to flow generously from one space to another. ‘There are di erent angles at play and not just a chunk of left and right,’ he says, referring to their resistance to the

formal placement of rooms. This resulted in a seamless fluidity from the front sea-facing balcony, living area and master bedroom to the back kitchen via a much wider passageway that is now a room in its own right. ‘It’s like a pyjama lounge,’ Kelsey says of this transitionary thoroughfare where a teal-coloured velvet sofa curls around a curvaceous wall.

It’s on this sofa that days begin, where this plush seating doubles up as a banquette for the breakfast nook. Later, when the sun is overhead, the lounge calls for attention, gleaming in its calming whiteness. The nearby palm trees and sounds of the ocean complement the interior style that Andrea describes as part Parisian, part Malibu Beach. ‘It’s warm, old and sophisticated,’ she says, referring to the apartment set within a historic Cape Town block, ‘but at the same time, it’s got this very cool vibe.’

Be it through colour, furnishings, art or structural flow, each aspect of the home portrays a purpose, granting every hour its moment and welcoming a lifestyle suited to every mood.

1. The entrance is defined by dark wooden floors. A textural gold-leaf painting by homeowner Andrea Bowman becomes a focal point on the opposite wall, alluding to the glamour that exists inside the Cape Town apartment. 2. Pink flowers catch the hues of sunset at the end of the day.

Opposite page: The entertainment area includes a bar-cum-dining area and lounge. Although predominantly white, touches of pink and pale blue are accentuated by views of seaside sunsets and the Atlantic Ocean. A mixedmedium artwork by Andrea presides over this space, glimmering at night in the light of the up-lit countertop. All the furniture was custom designed by Fyfe Boyce, the home’s interior designer.

The kitchen at the back of the home presents itself as an elegant statement area in black. Opposite page: The coffee-and-drinks station forms part of the pyjama lounge, welcoming cosy sofa sessions near the kitchen.

The widened passageway between the living area and kitchen doubles up as a pyjama lounge, its teal-coloured velvet sofa running the full length of the wall. A television is mounted on the opposite wall, making this a cosy family hangout when Andrea’s children visit.

The master en suite bathroom maintains the home’s elegant, uncluttered approach. Opposite page: When the doors between the lounge and master bedroom are open, the space presents itself almost as a hotel suite in its fluid elegance. Two different wallpapers were cut into strips to achieve the desired application on the wall. The bedroom windows open onto expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Tiles and cabinetry details in the en suite bathroom bring an Art Deco element to the space.

Opposite page: A bedroom sports an unconventional four-poster bed designed by Fyfe Boyce and made of iroko. The mixed-medium artwork by Andrea is a photograph of palm trees that she has painted over in her unique style, matching the colours of the scatter cushions.

Shop online a t v ictoria n bathroom s c o z a

Eight of the best colourful bathrooms on which to feast your eyes. Come gain a bit of inspiration ...

Colour is most definitely back in vogue for bathrooms, and in a variety of ways, too. From ultra-bright accents that provide energetic punch in monochromatic schemes to subtle and slightly “off” tones of pastel pinks, blues and greens, here’s all the inspiration you need to create a cool and contemporary space.

COLOUR ME HAPPY

TEXT ROBYN ALEXANDER PRODUCTION SVEN ALBERDING PHOTOGRAPHS GREG COX, WARREN HEATH, LAR GLUTZ

Powder pink

The ongoing appeal of millennial pink – the dusty, o -pastel shade that has been popping up in youthful interiors for years – is amply demonstrated in this bathroom, which forms part of a new-build apartment with a stylish, retro feel. Cladding the bath in chunky granite and using charcoal-grey slate tiles on the floor of this wet room space is both practical and a smart way to ground and o set the soft pink shade on the walls.

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There’s a lot going on here in terms of colour and texture, so keeping the shower enclosure, tapware and other fixtures completely minimalist allows this compact space to intrigue rather than overwhelm the eye.

Glam slam

Reminiscent of the gleaming interior of an old-fashioned trinket or jewellery box, the walls of this guest bathroom in a contemporary family home are clad in handmade glass-toned green tiles from local manufacturers, Southern Art Ceramics (vlvlk.com). Applied in a vertical broken bond pattern that helps add a feeling of height to the compact space, they give a marvellously luxurious and dramatic atmosphere to the room.

With the tiles being the real stars of the show here, the rest of the fixtures are chosen to complement them while also contributing to the updated Art Deco feel of the space. The mirror – with its curvy brass frame – and petite wall sconce are especially clever choices in this regard.

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Pop life

This family home uses plenty of bright colours against crisp, whitewashed backdrops. Here, seamless monochrome floor and wall tiling combines with a bold, cartoon-style artwork to create a graphic feel worthy of a Roy Lichtenstein painting. It’s the very opposite of tranquil and the perfect space for morning people.

Artworks in the bathroom are always a good idea: the pop art-inspired picture here is by Democratic Republic of Congo-born artist Job Ngwanza. The fabulously futuristic Italian mid-century chrome light fixture, picked up at a local vintage dealer, adds to the pop feel.

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On the shelf

A resolutely contemporary bathroom, this space is situated in a small, semi-detached, historic villa recently given an award-winning refurb by its two architect owners, whose design practice is called Douglas & Company (douglasandco.co.za). They created the bespoke built-in storage, which is made from steel painted in a deep maroonred oxide that looks superbly elegant against the raw wood and crisp white interior finishes.

There’s no need to fill bathrooms with often expensive prefabricated vanity units: ask your architect or interior designer to create custom storage for your new bathroom. It’s a good opportunity to reuse or upcycle, too: this vanity is topped with a piece of timber reclaimed during the house renovation.

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Completely floored

In this laid-back beachside cottage, the main bedroom’s en suite bathroom features Moroccan encaustic cement tiles in a brilliantly bold red pattern, which adds massive appeal to an otherwise very simple space. It might seem counterintuitive, but not only does the flooring provide a colourful boost here, the detailed repeating pattern on the tiles also helps make the small room seem larger.

Naturally inspired touches such as the woven floor mat from well-known African basketry and weaving suppliers Design Afrika (designafrika.co.za), plus plenty of greenery in the form of leafy indoor plants, complete this bathroom’s laid-back look.

Green dream

The tranquil, tonal colours used in this compact bathroom –situated in a coastal cottage located within a nature conservation area – are inspired by the variety of green and blue shades of the surrounding landscape. Textural simplicity is key to making this small space feel restful and calm, with materials restricted to wood and ceramic elements and tapware in a matte finish rather than gleaming stainless steel.

Adding plenty of narrow wall shelving provides sensible levels of storage for bathroom essentials and an opportunity to add visual interest; seen here, for example, in the form of the grey ceramic vessels and vases from Vorster & Braye (vorsterandbraye.co.za).

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Compare and contrast

The combination of dusty pink and sea green helps make this bathroom vanity and storage unit a stylish exercise in retro chic. Combine the colours with a painterly terrazzo countertop and oversized tiles, as well as the lesson in geometry created via the shapely oval of the unit itself and the perfectly round sinks from Studio 19 (studio19.co), and you’ve got a very modern lesson in why more really can be lovely.

The multi-dimensional blend of textures, materials and colours in this bathroom is bold and fearless. An element that adds yet more appealing tactility to the space is the white wall tiles, handmade by bespoke tile manufacturers, Akashic Tiles (akashictiles.co.za).

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Yellow fever

The gallerist owners of this urban bolthole know just how to attract the eye. In this case, by adding a brilliantly bold yellow cabinet to an otherwise monochrome bathroom. Because the colour scheme and fittings – note the round retro lamps alongside the mirror and old-school pedestal basin – provide such a classic backdrop here, almost any bright item will ‘pop’ in this space, so you could ring the colour changes easily and often, and without breaking the bank.

Mother City Hardware designed the cabinet seen here. This sort of industrially inspired piece is easy to find from vintage locker suppliers to hardware stores just about anywhere.

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THE WEDDING GUIDE

STYLE • VENUES • AND MUCH MORE

ROMANCE

A wedding dress can be the make or break of such a special day, which is exactly why we spend so much time and money trying to find the one that’s just right. After all, a dress can serve as a reminder of your special day for many years to come.

From eighties-inspired designs to sleeves, plunging necklines and lace, these are our favourite wedding dress collections.

This exquisite dress boasts an off-the-shoulder pearl beaded bodice that flows down into an ombre of white and silver dots.

DAPHNE BY MILLANOVA at Vonvé Bridal Couture

HATTIE LYNETTE BY REBECCA INGRAM at Olivelli

Floral lace motifs complement a demure mermaid wedding gown with a strapless, sweetheart neckline over glitter tulle.

DEILA BY MILLANOVA at Vonvé Bridal Couture

This showstopper gown shows off lace applique throughout. The plunging neckline is striking and is enhanced by feather and leaf-like designs and frills.

PRETTY BY EVA LENDEL at Vonvé Bridal Couture

Sleek, timeless and elegant describes this satin constructed gown. The dramatic neckline makes a statement, and the detachable ruffle-designed skirt adds extra glamour to the look.

OLEG CASSINI SUITS by Eurosuit

Handsome is an understatement in a two-piece peak lapel suit. Colour: sand on the right. Colour: sky blue on the left.

Oleg Cassini is a designer well known for his luxe style, and these suits are no exception.

A crown jewel of a design could be big, glitzy, or a simple satin ball gown wedding dress with pockets. This dress boasts a scoop neckline with a square back and pockets and can be altered to be strapless.

SELENA BY MAGGIE SOTTERO at Olivelli

OLEG CASSINI at Bride & Co

Champagne in colour, this exceptional dress is perfect for a bride or bridal party. It boasts a lace bodice with a low neckline, embellished with silver and gold thread and rope detail.

VIVIEN BY REBECCA INGRAM at Olivelli

A classic and timeless ball gown wedding dress with a ruched bodice and spaghetti straps.

TUSCANY ROYALE BY MAGGIE SOTTERO at Olivelli

All-around shimmer and illusion make this sparkly lace sheath bridal dress a stunner from any angle. It boasts beaded lace motifs over sequin Chantilly lace with a sheer lace bodice and plunging illusion V-neckline.

OLEG CASSINI at Bride & Co

This Oleg Cassini wedding dress has a lace plunging neckline with full sleeves in lace and detailed beadwork, and a dramatic lace train. Classic in all forms, elegant in nature.

An off-the-shoulder mermaid wedding dress exudes elegance with its beaded lace motifs, sheer bodice lined with organza, and deep illusion sweetheart neckline. It also has an illusion lace back. The dress comes in ivory with a natural illusion, ivory over blush, and ivory over misty mauve.

SIMONE BY SOTTERO & MIDGLEY at Olivelli

DESTINATION: HAPPILY EVER AFTER

The only wedding appurtenance more important than the officiant, and perhaps the bride’s gown, is the venue . Because if you have sweeping vineyards, endless ocean horizons, lush, verdant gardens, or the humming African wilderness as the multi-sensory backdrop to one of the most important days of your life, you could get married in a ramshackle barn and still have the most enchanting recollections of your union. And so, with that in mind, here are some of the country’s most beautiful locations in which to tie the knot.

Tie the knot in these exquisite South African wedding destinations. BY THEA

WINE FARMS

1. BABYLONSTOREN

Franschhoek

Head into the food and wine capital of the Cape for a celebration staged against a dramatic backdrop of rolling vineyards and rugged mountains. Babylonstoren’s centuries-old Cape Dutch farmyards present a historic yet contemporary and versatile wedding venue complemented by the rich, seasonal bounty of this estate’s famous food gardens and award-winning wines. For accommodation (and a pre-ceremony spoil), there’s Babylonstoren’s hotel and spa, while the ceremony itself can either be held under towering oaks by a stream or in the mysterious House of Shadows at the bottom of the garden.

2. BOSCHENDAL

Franschhoek

Farm-to-table food, picnics under ancient oaks, wine-tasting in historic manor houses, resplendent food gardens, and luxury

BECKMAN

accommodations, all tucked into the fynbos-carpeted foothills of the Simonsberg Nature Reserve: could one ask for a more beguiling wedding venue? The historic Boschendal Wine Estate offers a blank canvas for couples to fulfil their wedding vision, from small, intimate gatherings to spectacular allout celebrations. There are several unique spaces to choose from, both indoors and out, complemented by the estate’s fine repertoire of wines, food, and luxury accommodation.

3. HAZENDAL

Stellenbosch

The perfect blend of history, Winelands scenery, contemporary design, awardwinning wines, and one of the best culinary teams in Stellenbosch, Hazendal Wine Estate is another stellar option for a Winelands wedding venue. There is a suite of boutique settings, whether

couples are after an opulent ceremony in the Grand Hall; an alfresco celebration on the sprawling lawns in front of the homestead; a striking and sophisticated garden setting upon water in the Hazendal Pavilion; or The Glasshouse venue, in our opinion one of their most exquisite options. After the ceremony, there are delicious fine wines and gourmetstyle food to be enjoyed in the Avant-Garde Restaurant and the wine tasting lounge.

4. STEENBERG ESTATE

Constantia, Cape Town

The Cape’s oldest farm, Steenberg Wine Estate, o ers a truly picturesque point of marital embarkation for any couple, with its oak-shaded Cape Dutch homesteads, manicured multichromatic gardens, and breathtaking vistas of the Constantia Wine

Valley. The lawns in front of the original manor house or the villa heritage buildings are the ideal outdoor spaces for a ceremony, after which guests can head into one of Tryn Restaurant’s stunningly appointed private rooms for a delicious sit-down meal or, for larger parties of 50 to 100 guests, a standing canapé-style reception.

AN OCEAN VIEW

5. SKY VILLA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Plettenberg Bay

A short five minutes from the Garden Route town of Plettenberg Bay, the five-star Sky Villa Boutique Hotel wedding venue is an exquisite blend of visionary interior design, luxury amenities and warm hospitality, all complemented by panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Keurbooms Lagoon, and Tsitsikamma and Langkloof Mountains. Generous terraces, a pool and surrounding gardens perfectly complement the jewel in the crown of the Raw Africa Boutique Collection. The perfect stage for the union of two people in love.

6. THE OYSTER BOX HOTEL

Umhlanga, Durban

Located above Durban’s Umhlanga beach, where the Indian Ocean laps at the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, The Oyster Box is the ideal five-star venue for couples after a seaside wedding experience. This familyowned hotel o ers all the luxurious amenities and facilities you could require for your ceremony and reception, with an experienced team of wedding planners and events professionals to help you fine-tune the day’s festivities according to your precise vision, no matter how wild (or subdued).

7. 12 APOSTLES HOTEL

Camps Bay, Cape Town

Picture this: the sun burning its way westwards, setting fire to the horizon and the Atlantic Ocean, the susurration of the waves as an aural backdrop, and, behind you, the regal countenance of the Twelve Apostles Mountain range. This is the sumptuous experience presented at the five-star 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa, which caters to intimate nuptials and lavish celebrations. They even have dedicated wedding coordinators to help you plan every detail, from the perfect menu and wine list to bespoke flower arrangements and eco-friendly confetti.

IN THE GARDENS

8. SHEPSTONE GARDENS

Mountain View, Johannesburg

Considered one of South Africa’s top event venues, Shepstone Gardens is quite literally a fairy tale location for weddings. There’s the striking and elegant Glass Marque, with its marbled floors and chandeliers; the enchanting and atmospheric Grand Hall bedecked in glittering fairy lights; the onsite Chapel with its intricate stone walls and stained-glass windows; and, for outdoor ceremonies, the Natural Arch, embraced by gardens with views of the Joburg skyline. These gorgeous venues are complemented by a team of design experts dedicated to helping couples realise their dream wedding.

Photo: Alexander Smith Photography

9. THE ALPHEN HOTEL

Constantia, Cape Town

Described as a “17th-century historical treasure”, The Alphen Hotel is a stunning wedding venue resplendent in kaleidoscopic gardens, ancient oak trees, and historic architecture. The rolling lawns can accommodate up to 150 guests for an outdoor ceremony and reception, while the understatedly stylish Incognito Bar or the private dining rooms of Blanko Restaurant are perfect for indoor celebrations. Naturally, being located in the heart of the Constantia Winelands – famed for its stratospheric calibre of food and wine – it’s not only your romantic union that will live on in your guests’ memories.

IN THE WILD

10. GONDWANA GAME RESERVE

Herbertdale

If it’s a safari wedding you’ve always dreamt of, Gondwana Game Reserve is a must-see venue, with its beautiful natural setting and comprehensive bouquet of luxury amenities, attentive service, stylish contemporary interiors, and gourmet cuisine. Located in the heart of the Garden Route, this private game reserve o ers exclusive and authentic safaristyle weddings, complete with luxury lodge and villa accommodation, Africology spa treatments, and exhilarating game drives of the region’s rich diversity of antelope and Big Five animals, birdlife and flora.

11. THORNYBUSH

Kruger National Par k

Say ‘I do’ beneath the towering boughs of wild fig trees while enveloped in the spiced-fragrance wilderness and a cacophony of indigenous birds. This is the incredible, once-in-a-lifetime wedding experience at Thornybush in the world-renowned Kruger National Park. This 14,000-hectare private nature reserve has four luxurious lodges, accommodating groups of up to 70 guests, and provides an intimate and uncrowded Big Five wildlife experience, whether you’re striking out at first light or going for a spot-lit night drive.

12. GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

Walker Bay

Immerse your wedding party in the pristine nature of the southwestern Cape coast at Grootbos’ five-star eco-lodges. With its prime location on fynbos-carpeted hills overlooking the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay, the 2 500-hectare Grootbos private nature reserve is truly a spectacular venue in which to tie the knot; one that made Conde Nast’s Best Hotel in South Africa Gold List in 2022. There are unique lodges and private villas that blend harmoniously into the surrounding nature, world-class amenities, welcoming hospitality, delicious cuisine, and fine Cape wines to accompany your celebrations.

www.bellaluna.co.za/collections/guess

Whether you say ‘I do’ in a traditional church, a garden or a chic hotel, your wedding is the perfect occasion to revel in romance and the promise of something new. Each wedding is unique and a beautiful reflection of the couple coming together. We chatted to expert wedding planner and florist Zavion Kotze about current wedding trends and his top tips for creating the perfect celebration of love.

Wedding trends for your most special day

Event specialist and master of creating all things beautiful, Zavion Kotze shares the latest in wedding trends. Celebrate love in style. BY

JENNIFER CAMPBELL

CHOOSE YOUR BLOOMS

“With the rise in flower prices over the last two years, two big trends have emerged”, says Zavion. First, the use of preserved florals is having a moment; this often allows florists to reuse flowers and usually keeps the price of arrangements down. Second, more and more florists choose to source seasonal flowers from local farms. Flower trends for 2023 include gentle, soft colours with the use of roses, poppies and wildflowers; dried and preserved flowers like proteas, wax flowers; grasses like wheat, ferns and bunny tails, as well as chrysanthemum leaves. Include bold, statement flowers like wisteria, hydrangea, anemone, dahlias and peonies for a more dramatic look.

T

CONSIDER YOUR PALETTE

“Naturally, a neutral colour palette will always be in fashion,” says Zavion. “We are, however, predicting some pops of colour: lilac, sage, powder blues. My advice is to make sure when selecting your colour palette that you ask yourself: ‘If I look back at my wedding 10 years from now, will I still love my selection?’ If the answer is yes, you cannot go wrong.” He adds that your florist or designer will be able to give good advice when it comes to selecting colours and don’t be afraid to give your team some artistic freedom in this area. Current trends include Bridgerton-inspired weddings, think pastel colours, draping wisteria and whimsical stationery and accessories. Equally as popular are creams, dusty rose, shades of white, ivory, blush, beige and taupe.

SAY

YES TO YOUR DRESS

For most brides, the wedding dress is the star of the day, and when it comes to choosing one that is just right, Zavion believes comfort is key. He suggests considering a dress with an element that can be removed once you go into the reception hall; this way, you get two looks for the price of one. And in terms of details like lace and pearls and the overall aesthetic that you choose? “It all comes down to your personal style and what makes you feel like a million bucks,” says Zavion. Similarly, accessories like hats, fascinators, tiaras and flower crowns all depend on your personality. “If you don’t generally wear things on your head, why would you do it on your wedding day? If you want to make a statement, get something made for a portion of your couple shoot, but don’t wear it the whole day as you just might question your decision in a couple of years.” The trends for 2023 for dresses include florals in white or ivory to tie in with the dress or in contrasting colours like pink, mauve, coral and green. Blue is also the colour of the season, powder blue in its entirety, from head to toe, can make quite the statement. Straight necklines, high slights, open back, mock necks and big, bold ball gowns are on the rise in trends and will be here to stay for quite some time.

When it comes to event planning, it’s di cult to ignore the issue of sustainability and fortunately, this is something that can be practised in many forms. Zavion suggests chatting to your venue and florist to find out what can be done to make your wedding more ecofriendly. Consider using seasonal or preserved flowers, select a venue that recycles, and limit any décor items that will ultimately end up in a landfill. “I believe that if everyone in this world does even just a little, it will do a lot,” urges Zavion.

MORE ECO WEDDING TIPS

1 Choose eco-friendly invitations and table settings.

2 Go for an eco-friendly registry.

3 Donate your décor after the event, don’t throw it away.

4 Instead of rice or paper confetti, opt for rose petals, herbs, lavender and leaves.

SELECT A SPACE

Venue trends come and go, but Zavion says more and more couples are looking for places that supply everything they’ll need for their big day as it often saves on hiring costs. He loves spaces, which are a combination of indoor and outdoor but always reminds his clients to be sure the venue has an e ective rain plan in the case of bad weather. “There is also a huge movement regarding wedding insurance in this country,” he says. “This should be the number one question you ask your venue. Being covered for your big day is the absolute best thing you could do. Have a look at IDoInsure – a South African-based insurance company underwritten by iTOO and Hollard.”

EAT THE CAKE

No perfect wedding would be complete without a gorgeous cake. Zavion recommends giving your cake artist the freedom to create something unique. “That way, I’m sure you will be blown away by the results!” he says. And, if you’re trying to save on costs and reduce waste, you might consider including a dummy tier or two as this will ensure a beautiful aesthetic without unnecessary waste.

CONSIDER THE TRENDS

A wedding is ultimately a deeply personal event, so there’s certainly no obligation to follow contemporary trends when it comes to décor. Having worked in the industry for many years, Zavion has been part of all events and can appreciate a range of styles and details, from splashes of colour and neutral tones to tablescapes, hanging installations and dramatic ceremonies. “The rule for me is to always have fun, give artistic freedom to your designer and florist and keep an element of surprise for the wedding day. Allow your florist to wow you with a main table or your bouquet. As a florist, I always love doing something I know the bride will love, and I just adore surprising the couple on the day.”

Meet Zavion

Zavion Kotze is well known for his event management, wedding design and outof-this-world flower arrangements, and Survivor fans may remember him for his stint on the show. Zavion runs his own events company and is passionate about creating beauty. His business has grown from a small local company to a highly successful organisation. With over 2 000 weddings under his belt, Zavion offers world-class quality and service to each of his couples.

Find out more about what Zavion and his team offer here: www.zk-ec.com

Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue

Certain long-standing traditions still hold a place at present-day weddings.

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

Countless couples had to postpone their wedding plans at the height of the pandemic, but now, as we emerge into a new normal, more and more lovebirds are finding reasons to celebrate with family and friends. When it comes to planning a wedding, there are so many things to consider, and while new trends keep things interesting, some age-old traditions remain popular even at the most contemporary nuptials. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind if you’ll be tying the knot soon.

SOMETHING OLD

The tradition of incorporating ‘something old’ into your wedding is a wonderful opportunity to honour your family heritage. The bride might borrow a piece of jewellery from her mother or grandmother, or family heirlooms can be included in the décor. If you’ve lost a loved one who you would like

to honour and include in some way, you might consider wearing a locket with a small photograph inside.

SOMETHING NEW

In many ways, weddings are about looking to the future and beginning a new life, so incorporating something new into your ceremony can serve as the perfect symbol of hope. Some popular trends include last-name rings that feature a new shared surname, custom-made cu inks, monogrammed ring pillows, and modern jewels that reflect the couple’s style. Of course, many of the components of your wedding will be new, so this particular tradition is fairly easy to uphold; your fragrance, bouquet and outfits are all likely to make their debut on your wedding day.

SOMETHING BORROWED

This tradition goes way back and is a beautiful nod to the shared nature of a wedding celebration. Some brides are lucky enough to borrow a wedding dress (or elements thereof) from a family member, but if this isn’t possible or practical, you might consider using a precious old veil, a relative’s tie, or a piece of family jewellery. If you have the opportunity to borrow a wedding venue that means something to you – a family member’s garden or a friend’s beach house, for example – this will serve as an ideal homage to the long-standing tradition.

SOMETHING BLUE

A symbol of purity and fidelity, adding a touch of blue to your celebration often adds some aesthetic charm. You might choose accessories like shoes, ties and handkerchiefs in shades of blue, but if you prefer something more discreet, a blue garter is a great option. If you want blue to take centre stage, you might consider the hue as part of your jewellery selection; sapphires are among the most known and loved blue stones, but other striking options include opals, topaz, turquoise and aquamarine.

WEDDING SCENTS

There’s something about scents that can evoke memories with beautiful clarity. You’ll want to remember your celebration down to the last detail, so it’s well worth linking your memories with a carefully chosen fragrance. When selecting a scent, both partners should consider their personalities and personal preferences so, whether it’s strength, romance or softness you’re looking for, try to find notes to match. It’s also worth thinking about what season your wedding falls in. Autumn and winter celebrations call for warm, spicy notes, while spring and summer are well suited to florals and fruits. You might consider the symbolic meanings associated with certain fragrances; peony is traditionally a sign of good fortune, while honeysuckle signifies loyalty and everlasting love. Ultimately, your scent of choice is deeply personal and will be forever tied to the emotion of the day.

Wedding style

BRIDE & CO

Boksburg (0)67 992 8144

Canal Walk, Cape Town (0)21 555 3538

Umhlanga Ridge, Durban (0)31 566 3711

Rivonia, Johannesburg (0)11 807 4000

Moreleta Park, Pretoria (0)12 998 0252

www.brideandco.co.za

EUROSUIT

Boksburg (0)11 826 5534

Canal Walk, Cape Town (0)21 555 3538

Umhlanga Ridge, Durban (0)31 566 2995

GET IN TOUCH

Wedding destinations

12 APOSTLES HOTEL www.12apostleshotel.com

BABYLONSTOREN www.babylonstoren.com

Moreleta Park, Pretoria (0)12 998 0252

Rivonia, Johannesburg (0)11 807 4007

OLIVELLI

Northcli , Johannesburg (0)82 852 6285

Centurion (0)72 606 1915 www.olivelli.co.za

VONVÉ BRIDAL COUTURE

Birdhaven, Johannesburg (0)83 632 7294 www.vonvebridal.co.za

BOSCHENDAL www.boschendal.com

GONDWANA GAME RESERVE www.gondwanagr.co.za

GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE www.grootbos.com

HAZENDAL www.hazendal.co.za

SHEPSTONE GARDENS www.shepstonegardens.co.za

SKY VILLA BOUTIQUE HOTEL www.rawafricaboutiquecollection.co.za

STEENBERG ESTATE www.steenbergfarm.com

THE ALPHEN HOTEL www.alphen.co.za

THE OYSTER BOX HOTEL www.oysterboxhotel.com

THORNYBUSH www.thornybush.com

Wedding event specialist

ZAVION KOTZEN EVENTS COMPANY (0)71 604 2795 www.zk-ec.com

Experience a Romantic Safari Honeymoon

Ideally located on the Garden Route only a four hour drive from Cape Town, the 11 000 hectare, private game reserve offers a one of a kind Cape safari experience. Luxurious accommodation is provided in romantic, stand-alone safari suites or bush villas ideal for families, all with awe-inspiring views of the mountainous landscape and passing wildlife. Enjoy exhilarating game drives encountering free roaming Big 5 game species as well as giraffe, hippo, and herds of antelope. Additional activities on offer include the fun Junior Ranger programme for kids, mountain biking, Africology spa treatments, guided Fynbos walks and conservation activities. Tel: +27 (0)21 555 0807 . Email: reservations@gondwanagr.co.za .

FIND US IN HYDE PARK CORNER AND V&A WATERFRONT

We L ve

FASHION / BEAUTY / FRAGRANCES / AND MORE

pg 112

Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skincare finally lands in South Africa

SKY’S THE

G-Star RAW has jumped back to the ‘90s with the latest release of its jumpsuit capsule collection.

The jumpsuit was a true G-Star icon from the brand’s start in 1989. And now, with ’90’s nostalgia taking over the fashion industry, the return of the one-piece is back and ever-present.

The jumpsuit originated as an outfit for parachuters and skydivers to wear specifically for jumping from planes. G-Star RAW’s new campaign takes inspiration from this in its unique collaboration with aerial silk dancers. The silk dancers were captured high in the sky, showcasing their acrobatic art and effortless flexibility in multiple jumpsuits made for movement.

Executed in a range of diverse fabrics, fits and colourways, adjustable features such as expandable cuffs and elasticated waistbands are prominent elements within each suit. Paired with different denim styles, they are ready to wear; make them your own and style up or down.

www.g-star.com

FENTY BEAUTY

Lauded singer, actress, fashion designer and businesswoman Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty in 2017, and Fenty Skincare in 2020. And we’ve been waiting with bated breath for them to launch in South Africa. And they finally have.

Available in South Africa at Arc Stores & Edgars. And in Nigeria, Kenya, Namibia, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The range includes products for traditionally hard-to-match skin tones, creating formulas that work for all skin types, and pinpointing universal shades.

Fenty Beauty launched with the vision of inclusivity, Rihanna sought to help “everyone feel beautiful and recognised, no matter their race, ethnicity, culture or personal style”.

Fenty Skincare, a clean, vegan and eco-friendly skincare line, set out with a mission to provide simple and effective beauty solutions for all.

“Every launch is exciting – we’re all about being reachable to everyone, everywhere. But launching across Africa in eight countries not only feels really significant to me on a personal level, but is also a big step towards our goal of bringing Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin to the whole world.” – Rihanna.

A journey with CHANEL

This fragrance range from Chanel is inspired by the places that were significant to Gabrielle Chanel.

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

Chanel’s fragrance collection, Les Eaux De Chanel, includes six fresh scents, each inspired by a specific place special to Gabrielle Chanel during her lifetime. From Paris to the Côte d’Azur, these fragrances are made to o er a form of escape. The newest in the collection is the exquisite ParisParis, a scent that captures the spirit and style of this dreamy city.

PARIS-BIARRITZ

of the baroque city and the Orient Express route. Think notes of berry, iris, geranium and soft cedar for a warm and enveloping e ect.

PARIS-RIVIERA

Radiant and floral, this scent brings to mind a sunny escape to the Côte d’Azur. Mediterranean jasmine and neroli are infused with fresh orange peel and a subtle sandalwood and benzoin base.

This invigorating scent was first released in 2018 and remains beautifully revitalising. With a burst of grapefruit and mandarin, fresh aquatic notes and a soft lily-of-the-valley accord, it’s reminiscent of a break in South West France.

PARIS-ÉDIMBOURG

Woody and aromatic, this fragrance takes us on a ramble through the Scottish countryside with its vivid freshness. Think crisp and intense notes of juniper berry and cypress, paired with warm cedar and vetiver.

PARIS-DEAUVILLE

Also released in 2018, this scent conjures up a stroll along the coast of Normandy. Expect invigorating orange peel and basil notes, alongside softer accords of rose and jasmine and a patchouli base.

NEW! PARIS-PARIS

PARIS-VENISE

This gorgeous fragrance was released along with Paris-Biarritz and ParisDeauville. It’s a beautiful evocation

The latest addition to the collection, PARIS-PARIS is all about immersing oneself in the timeless city, with its authentic character and modern spirit; imagine a leisurely morning spent on the terrace of a Parisian café. The scent is a sparkling floral composition that is e ortlessly elegant – think Damascena rose, fresh citrus accents and sharp pink peppercorn.

WINTER HAIRCARE TIPS

HEAD START

Keep your hair nourished and strong throughout the winter months. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

WASH LESS

If you’re trying to keep your hair looking good, it might seem counterintuitive to shampoo less often, but the reality is that excessive washing can actually leave your scalp and locks extra dry. Try to lengthen the time between washes; no more than twice a week is ideal. It’s also a good idea to stay away from harsh, dehydrating ingredients. Opt instead for sulphatefree shampoos and those that go easy on alcohol, fragrance and dyes.

CHOOSE HYDRATING INGREDIENTS

As the temperature drops, many of us will begin to feel the effects of the colder weather on our hair and skin. Chilly conditions can leave our locks much more fragile than before as hair becomes susceptible to breakage and brittleness. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to protect your hair and keep it looking shiny and strong. Read on for our top tips for keeping your crowning glory intact this season.

CONSIDER YOUR SCALP

When it comes to feeling the effects of the cold weather, you might notice some changes to your scalp. The skin in this area is often prone to dryness and itching, especially if you live in a dry climate. To avoid these issues, along with dandruff and flakiness, the best bet is to keep your scalp hydrated. Use a nourishing hair oil formulated to penetrate both the skin and the hair follicles.

If you’re really struggling with dry, brittle hair, it’s well worth looking out for hydrating formulas that will nourish your strands. Choose a conditioner that contains natural oils, think coconut, olive and jojoba for maximum hydration. You may also benefit from using an overnight oil or serum packed with hydrating ingredients like argan oil or aloe vera. Weekly deep conditioning masks can help maintain the condition of your hair by keeping it soft and shiny.

NOURISH FROM THE INSIDE

When it comes to your overall wellness, nutrition is key. And the condition of your hair is no different. Try to stick to a balanced diet packed with nourishing, vitamin-rich foods. A combination of omega-3 fatty acids, protein and nutritious fruits and vegetables will all contribute to healthy-looking hair. It’s advisable to drink plenty of water to make sure you stay hydrated even in cooler weather.

WE LOVE HAIRCARE

MOROCCANOIL TREATMENT

When it comes to nourishing your hair, especially in the cooler months, there’s nothing quite like an oil treatment. We love the luxurious Moroccanoil Treatment, infused with antioxidant-rich argan oil and shine-boosting vitamins. It can be used as a conditioning, styling and finishing tool and is great for detangling and boosting overall shine.

200ml | R1 100

ROOTS

CURLS IN BLOOM DEEP PENETRATING TREATMENT

Coconut oil is the main ingredient here and sees this luscious treatment not only smell good, but also replenishes moisture and deeply nourishes the hair from root to tip.

250ml | R129.95

DOUBLE EFFECT® INTENSIVE SPRAY TREATMENT

This highly concentrated leave-in spray rejuvenates and fortifies hair and scalp. It strengthens and nourishes thinning hair to help reduce hair loss in men and women. Paraben, sulphate and silicone-free. Cruelty-free, vegan friendly.

50ml | R189.95

MONDAY HAIRCARE

We’ve discovered the haircare range from MONDAY. It aims to be more inclusive, offering luxury formulations at affordable prices. The range includes formulations for frizzy and curly hair, as well as oily, dry, thin and fine locks. The products are packed with natural ingredients such as panthenol, shea butter and ginger root extract. Free of sulphates and parabens. And cruelty-free and vegan.

350ml | R180 per bottle of shampoo or conditioner

UMBERTO

GIANNINI BANANA BUTTER SUPERFOOD CONDITIONER

natural oils and vitamins and has

This Banana Butter is formulated to specifically nourish and restore shine and improve manageability for dry, frizzy and textured hair. It is packed with natural oils and vitamins and has a delicious fruity fragrance. The Banana Extract ingredient is rich in potassium, vitamins A, B and C, and the addition of Coconut Oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E.

250ml | R170

HEAT OF ICE

Classic and elegant, Terre d’Hermès Eau Givrée embodies the fragrant freshness of ice. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

This new offering from Hermès was created by perfumer Christine Nagel, the creative director of the fragrance house. The scent explores a new territory that brings together the freshness of ice and the strength of the earth. It brings with it a new and vibrant strength that’s hard to resist.

The composition of Terre d’Hermès Eau Givrée combines the power of citron fruit with the freshness of juniper berries and timut pepper. These notes come together to create an iciness, which contrasts beautifully with more woody, mineral tones.

This new masculine fragrance comes in a bottle made with glass and aluminium, two materials that can be completely recycled. A combination of frosted glass and brushed aluminium is reminiscent of winter frost covering the ground.

Terre d’Hermès Eau Givrée is available in a choice of 50ml and 100ml Eau de Parfum refillable bottles.

reasons to wear your

Birthstones have a long history that dates back to ancient times and are loved by many for their special meanings. BY JENNIFER

CAMPBELL

Birthstones have been revered for their meaning and beauty as far back as biblical times. Over time, the stones were linked with the 12 zodiac signs and then eventually with the 12 months of the year. By the early 1900s, the 12 birthstones were made official by the National Association of Jewellers, the UK’s trade association for the jewellery sector. Now, birthstones are loved worldwide; here’s why you might consider adding yours to your jewellery collection. 3

1

GOOD FORTUNE AND PROTECTION

For generations, certain properties and meanings have been associated with birthstones, and they are often worn as symbols of good luck. Birthstones are also believed to provide protection. For example, the ruby has protective energy that can help alleviate issues related to self-worth and survival.

2

HEALING PROPERTIES

Birthstones have long been used for healing and are believed by many to hold positive energy. According to those in the know, each birthstone has its own particular vibration and composition that can be used to elevate your mood and sense of wellbeing. Turquoise, for example, has a long history in folklore as a natural healer.

PERSONAL SIGNIFICANCE

One of the loveliest things about birthstones is that, whether or not you believe in their healing and protective properties, they are connected to your time of birth and can make a statement that feels uniquely personal. And when it comes to jewellery designs, the options are endless. Gemstones come in various shades and can be worn in many forms and styles.

KNOW YOUR STONE

Typically a shade of red, garnets are considered grounding stones. They are often associated with faithfulness and honesty.

FEBRUARY Amethyst

The birthstone for February, amethyst, has a beautiful purple hue and is a type of quartz. The stone is said to have a balancing and calming effect.

A light blue stone, aquamarine was named after the Latin term for seawater. Early sailors kept the stone close for protection against the dangers of the ocean.

APRIL Diamond

This gemstone is loved worldwide for its incomparable beauty. Its name is derived from the Greek word for invincible, and the stone is believed to support intentions and truth.

This gorgeous green mineral has featured in myths and stories for generations and is associated with good health, abundance and fortune.

JUNE Pearl

The pearl is the only birthstone formed by a living creature and is made of a material known as calcium carbonite. It has a calming effect and serves as a reminder of the power and potential of transformation.

JANUARY Garnet

MARCH Aquamarine

MAY Emerald

JULY Ruby

This striking red gem is considered to be both grounding and protective. Known by ancient Hindus as the ‘king of gems’, rubies were often worn as protection from evil.

AUGUST Peridot

This pretty green stone symbolises strength and is believed to keep negative energies like jealousy, insecurity and indecision at bay.

SEPTEMBER Sapphire

Well known and loved, the beautiful sapphire takes its name from both the Latin and Greek words for blue. Known as the ‘wisdom stone’, the sapphire is associated with compassion and empathy.

OCTOBER Opal

A type of silica, the opal is a colourful stone that reveals rainbow colours within its milky hue. It’s a mysterious gem that draws you in to look below the surface.

NOVEMBER Topaz

The colour of topaz can vary depending on the trace elements it contains and can range from clear to yellow, orange, brown and pink. The stone is believed to have noble, moral energy.

DECEMBER Turquoise

A lovely shade of greenish-blue, turquoise has been revered for its beauty and natural magic since ancient times. It’s believed to be soothing and supportive and serves as a reminder of the natural world’s healing ability.

FOR HEALTH’S SAKE

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

Vitamins and minerals are considered essential nutrients, but do you know where to begin when it comes to getting exactly what your body needs? Read on to find out what some of the most important vitamins can do for your overall wellness.

VITAMIN A

Vitamin A refers to a group of substances known as retinoids, which are essential for a number of processes in the body. Vitamin A helps to maintain your vision and the proper function of the immune system. Pregnant women, in particular, can benefit from a vitamin A supplement as it aids the growth and development of unborn babies. Some Vitamin A products like retinol and Retin-A help keep your skin looking younger and smoother with the added benefit of boosting collagen.

Some natural sources include red pepper, carrots and spinach.

VITAMIN B

Vitamin B complex includes eight vitamins, which play an important role in maintaining your general health and wellbeing. This group of vitamins can a ect your metabolism, brain function and energy levels while helping to prevent infections. They are especially important for pregnant and breastfeeding women and can even reduce the risk of birth defects. Vitamin B can be found in many foods, including milk, eggs, avocado, beans and leafy greens.

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is well known for its many benefits. It cannot be produced by the body and is water-soluble and should be consumed daily. Found in a broad range of fruits and vegetables, vitamin C is an antioxidant that may strengthen the immune system; it promotes the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for protecting the body from infection.

Foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries and broccoli.

VITAMIN D

Fat-soluble and naturally produced by the body, vitamin D helps regulate the body’s ability to absorb calcium and phosphorus. This, in turn, helps to maintain the proper function of the immune system. Vitamin D is also important for the growth and development of bones and teeth.

Get your fix naturally by eating oily fish like salmon and sardines, mushrooms and fortified juices and cereals.

VITAMIN E

A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E can help protect the body’s cells from harmful free radicals and promote immune function. Many people choose to take vitamin E supplements for their ability to benefit skin health. The vitamin is often used to address issues like eczema, psoriasis and stretch marks, as well as some of the e ects of sun damage.

Vitamin E can be found in various foods, including sunflower seeds, almonds, peanuts, spinach and pumpkin.

FOLIC ACID

Moral of the story: go back to basics and eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. A healthy diet that consists of a good range of di erent food groups can assist in optimising your overall wellbeing. A D I M Z E K F B C

Folic acid plays an important part in producing and maintaining new cells. A synthetic form of folate, folic acid is water-soluble, and because the body cannot produce folate on its own, it needs to be included in your diet. It is also used in the treatment of anaemia. Some good sources include leafy greens like kale and spinach, as well as avocado, chickpeas and kidney beans.

IRON

Iron performs many important functions in the body and is essential for growth and development, and if you have ever had an iron deficiency – a common issue –you’ll know it can cause unpleasant symptoms like fatigue and problems with concentration. Supplements can be beneficial for those particularly prone to low iron levels, but you can also get your fix from dark leafy vegetables, beans, red meat and seafood.

VITAMIN K

Vitamin K helps to promote bone and heart health and also plays a key role in blood clotting. It’s found naturally in leafy greens like kale and Swiss chard, as well as in broccoli and green beans. Other natural sources include kiwi, soft cheeses and avocado.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is extremely important for several bodily processes; it helps regulate blood sugar, plays a role in regulating the nervous system, and even contributes to brain function and mood. Some nutritious sources of the mineral include dark chocolate, tofu, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

ZINC

An essential nutrient, zinc, is crucial for various processes, including growth and development, wound healing, digestion and nerve function. The body cannot produce or store it, which means it’s important to get enough of it from food sources. Fortunately, zinc can be found in many foods, these include shellfish, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains and certain vegetables, including mushrooms, asparagus and peas.

FOODIE INDULGENCE

Tuck into tasty comfort food this winter. We’re pairing a few delicious recipes with some of Spier’s most coveted wines this season. These food and wine pairings are perfect for a midweek indulgence or, better yet, a dinner party that will be sure to impress.

CREAMY MUSHROOM SOUP

Serves 4-6

This creamy soup is packed with intense brown mushroom flavour. Indulgent and hearty, it is simple enough to make every day and suitably elegant to serve as a starter at your next dinner party. The creamy body of Spier Signature Chardonnay perfectly matches the creaminess of the soup. Its lightly lingering acidity acts as a palate cleanser between each spoonful. Topped with a big dollop of truffle oil and brown butter drizzle, this pairing is guaranteed to be a keeper for the recipe book.

INGREDIENTS

45ml olive oil

30ml butter

2 onions, finely chopped

800g brown mushrooms, sliced

(reserve a few for topping, optionally)

30–45ml (2–3 tablespoons) sage leaves, chopped

3 garlic cloves, finely grated

250ml Chardonnay

45ml cake flour

250ml fresh cream

500ml chicken or vegetable stock

salt and pepper to taste

a few drops of truffle oil to taste

For the browned orange sage butter: 60–90ml (4–6 tablespoons) butter

about two teaspoons orange rind, finely grated

8–12 sage leaves

METHOD

In a large heavy-based pot, heat the olive oil and butter. Add the onions and fry over medium heat until soft and translucent, then turn up the heat and add the mushrooms and sage. Fry until the mushrooms start to colour and release their liquid, then add the garlic and fry for another minute. Add the wine and bring to a simmer, then sprinkle flour and stir to mix. Make sure there are no floury lumps. Add the cream and stock, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer, turning the heat to low. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring often, then remove from the heat. While the soup is simmering, make the butter drizzle in a small saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter and bring it to a boil. Swirl the pot occasionally, watching until the butter goes from a simmering boil to a foamy roll. Remove from the heat immediately and add the orange rind and sage. Tilt to coat all over as the foam slowly subsides. You should be left with a nutty golden mixture. If necessary, taste and season, then use a stick blender to blend the soup – leave some chunky bits. Serve the soup in bowls and top with lightly fried mushrooms and a generous drizzle of the browned butter. Add truffle oil to taste. Serve hot.

ABOUT THE WINE: SPIER SIGNATURE CHARDONNAY

Slightly tart, whimsically tropical and ever-so creamy, this lively Chardonnay will become a favourite.

Vigorous grapefruit and lime on the nose with hints of apple, peach and pear. The palate is creamy with layered fruit, pleasant lingering acidity and minerality.

CHICKEN, LEEK AND SAGE CASSEROLE

Serves 4

Perfect for slightly cooler days, the tender chicken thighs fall o the bone in this finger-licking creamy dish. A wonderful midweek dinner ready in less than an hour. Serve with your choice of vegetables, salad, rice, pasta or bread.

INGREDIENTS

45ml olive oil

8 chicken thighs salt and pepper to taste

200g leeks, finely sliced (white and light green parts only)

1 onion, finely chopped

a few sage leaves, finely chopped

80ml ( 1/3 cup) dry white wine (like Chenin Blanc)

30ml (2 tablespoons) Dijon mustard

250ml (1 cup) chicken stock

250ml (1 cup) fresh cream salt and pepper to taste chopped parsley or a few thyme sprigs (optional)

METHOD

In a wide cast-iron casserole or ovenproof pan, heat the oil on the stovetop and fry the chicken on both sides until golden, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside for later, then add the leeks, onion and sage and fry over medium heat until softened and lightly brown. Add the wine, turn up the heat to deglaze the pan, add the mustard, and stir to mix. Add the stock and cream, replace the chicken in the pan, skin side up. Bring to a slow simmer over low heat for about 40 minutes or until tender, occasionally stirring to prevent the bottom from burning (you can also move the pot to the oven at 180°C for the same amount of time). Remove from the heat (or oven), then serve hot, decorated with herbs. Serve with your choice of vegetables, salad, rice, pasta or bread.

ABOUT THE WINE: SPIER SIGNATURE CHENIN BLANC

This crisp and fruity unwooded Chenin has lively acidity to appeal to even the most hardened Sauvignon Blanc lovers (go on, try it!). With fresh flavours of guava, pear and apple, serve this delightfully versatile crowd-pleaser with sushi, pasta or good old fish and chips.

It’s both crisp and fruity with green guava, pear, apple and hints of litchi on the nose. A well-balanced palate and a strong finish.

DECADENT NO-BAKE DARK CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER TART

Serves 12

This tart is just over-the-top decadent and downright delicious. You’ll only need a small sliver, so it will serve quite a crowd. Prepare to indulge!

PREP/COOKING TIME

25 minutes plus cooling

INGREDIENTS

200 g digestive biscuits

2 cups icing sugar

100 g melted butter

1 cup peanut butter

5 ml salt

200 ml cream

300 g dark chocolate, chopped into smaller chunks some fresh berries/cherries to serve

METHOD

Spray a large loose-bottom tart tin with non-stick spray. Place the digestive biscuits in a food processor and process until it is fine. Add the icing sugar, butter, peanut butter and salt, then mix well. Press the mixture evenly into the base of the tart tin, then refrigerate while you make the top layer. Place the cream in a microwave-proof bowl and heat in the microwave until warm but not boiling. Add the dark chocolate chunks, then leave to stand for 5 minutes. Stir well until smooth. If the mixture won’t go smooth, heat it for another 30 seconds in the microwave and keep stirring. Pour the creamy chocolate onto the tart base, then refrigerate until firm. Remove the tart from the fridge and remove the outer ring to serve. Cut into slivers (when it is still cold and firm) and serve when closer to room temperature. This tart might become very soft on standing, but it tastes better when not too cold. Serve with some tart berries/cherries and a glass of Spier Creative Block 5.

ABOUT THE WINE: SPIER CREATIVE BLOCK 5

A medium- to full-bodied red blend, Creative Block 5 dazzles with complexity, showing decadent dark chocolate, cranberry depth, as well as tomato leaf and thatch notes. The palate is juicy and sweet-fruited, framed by concentrated tannins and complemented by subtle hints of rooibos tea and wet earth. There is a lovely freshness and finesse running through the red-fruited 2014 that is particular to the vintage. Superb balance and effortless weight lead to a long, classy finish. Stock up now, and enjoy over the next decade.

Art of the Space Age

until 27 November 2022

Featuring the Futurist Garden by Giacomo Balla (Italian, 1871-1958)

CALLING FOUND

Trevor DeRuisé of LOST BOY WINES may be an intrepid wanderer, but a ‘lost boy’ he is not, and one need only taste his exceptional wines to see he has found his calling.

Burn-out and wanderlust blew Trevor off the beaten path of professional bike racing in the United States to our shores. Having absorbed a passion for winemaking while in Los Angeles, where he kept the company of oenophiles, he landed in the Cape in 2018 with the goal of working a single harvest season. Unsurprisingly, Trevor fell ardently in love with the country’s staggering natural beauty, its people’s affinity for nature, and the welcoming community of winemakers. And so, he decided to throw himself into the lofty ambition of setting down roots in the rich coastal terroir of Gansbaai, near the southern tip of Africa, and making his own wines.

Four years later, the fruit of Trevor’s labour is LOST BOY WINES; a range of vibrant and bright wines that are among the most fragrant and aromatic we have ever encountered. Made small-batch, by hand, with Beaujolais-inspired techniques, Trevor transforms sun-ripened Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Cinsault, Pinot Noir, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes into wines that are fruit-forward yet elegant, and an honest expression of Africa’s only true cool-climate wine appellation. And being just as passionate about wildlife as he is about wine, Trevor donates R300 from every case of LOST BOY WINES sold to African wildlife conservation projects. www.lostboy.co.za

‘‘ It’s a simple life, but I’ve never been happier.’’

Winemaker Trevor DeRuisé, LOST BOY WINES. BY THEA BECKMAN

What’s in my glass?

EMILE JOUBERT

s someone whose handicap is the game of golf, it has taken me a while to take serious note of the Ernie Els winery in Stellenbosch.

Yes, the vineyards and cellar are set in a spectacular location in the Helderberg and, yes, since opening in 2005, the wines have achieved commendable ratings. But somehow, the connection between a great South African golfer and great wine went

astray, and I’ll admit to having been much the poorer for it.

Over the past year or three, the name Ernie Els has, however, comfortably fallen into my list of top 10 Cape wineries, most notably for what the property is doing in terms of Cabernet Sauvignon, arguably the finest red wine o ering out of South Africa and a variety Stellenbosch is embracing as its calling card.

The slopes of the Helderberg to the south of the town provide ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. Soils of decomposed granite and clay, elevation running to over 400m above sea level, and exposure to the Atlantic air flows o nearby False Bay make for stunning viticulture real estate. Add to this, winemakers obsessed with Cabernet Sauvignon – such as Ernie Els’s Louis Strydom – the path to great wine is as assured as a scratch golfer’s languid swing on an easy par 4.

Strydom has been making Cabernet Sauvignon on the Helderberg for 23 years, heading up the blue-chip Rust en Vrede cellar before starting with Ernie Els’ maiden vintage. At Ernie Els, he has zoned in on the variety with a professorial-like focus, planting the farm to Cabernet Sauvignon clones selected to the di ering pockets of soils and aspects found on the property. The approach continues to the winery, where at harvest-time, the parcels of terroir diversity are fermented, blended and aged according to the wants of each of the Ernie Els wines.

My current selection is the Ernie Els Proprietor’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, a wine embodying the image of Ernie Els, namely a modern classic. This means wine made from a variety integral to Stellenbosch’s vinous provenance in terms of culture and terroir, made with a skilled and modern approach.

Purity is the watchword here. From aroma to the flavour profile, Proprietor’s Cabernet Sauvignon displays the finesse and polite elegance that is as much a part of this variety’s character as its supple robustness and brooding power.

The aromas of fennel, autumn fruit orchards and cigar box lead to a delicious array of tastes. If one is after descriptors, fall for plum and blackberries backed by a secondary level of cedar, dried figs and fynbos. But as is the case of any excellent wine, it is the sum of the parts that count. Here the fruit is enveloped in brightness and energy with easy tannins and a cool freshness that cloak the overall impression of magisterial excellence.

From Paarl, an appellation much in need of some verve and imagination, comes an extraordinary white wine wrapped in a cloak stitched from mystery and ambition.

Brookdale is the name, a relatively new property owned by British businessman Tim Rudd lying on Paarl’s eastern slopes adjacent to where the Du Toit’s Kloof tunnel draws in the N1.

Known for Chenin Blanc until now, Brookdale this year released its maiden Sixteen Field Blend 2021, a white wine made from 16 di erent varieties planted in a vineyard of two hectares. We hear it correctly: 16 di erent white grape cultivars planted – I was going to say thrown together – in one patch of soil. Come harvest time, the grapes are harvested and fermented simultaneously to create a single wine from this diverse, dare we say, bastardised o ering.

This strategy is no gimmick, however, as a field blend is a well-known style in old Europe from the days before science-minded winemakers began obsessing over wines made from single varieties. The Brookdale

Sixteen Field Blend class underscores the fact that this is no mere attempt to capture a sexy narrative as the wine exudes, ironically, a pedigreed completeness and surprising maturity.

Aged in 500-litre oak vessels, part of the wine’s attractiveness lies in the texture in the mouth, which varies between an exhilarating grip on the palate and a delectable creaminess. There are no woody flavours here, these overshadowed by tinkling chimes of quince, apricot and green citrus, with an evocative brush of spice that is one of the enviable characteristics of Cape wines made from Mediterranean white grape varieties, which must surely dominate this mysterious blend.

Watch out for this wine because as the interplanted, diversely populated vineyard ages, greatness will follow.

Although the weather has not quite reached the state of frigidity that calls for a Port, my thirst is beginning to itch for some sweet stu . Noble Late Harvest wines, the elixirs sometimes go by the terrible name of ‘stickies’, are some of the best glasses coming out of South Africa. Yet, the world’s obsession with decrying anything admitting to being

sweet has not allowed this category to reach the status of splendour they deserve. Paul Cluver’s Noble Late Harvest 2020, made from Riesling, is a case in point. Although more famous for its magnificent Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Elgin-based Paul Cluver has become known for fine wines made from the Riesling grape, a variety particularly suited to the making of a sweet wine from grapes that are allowed to hang well beyond the standard ripening regimes of summer.

The beauty of this wine lies in the balance between the sugars of overripe fruit and the grapes’ inherent acidity, which is required to o er zest and life instead of a dead cloying sweetness that a lack of acids cause. Here, it is all pitch-perfect.

Drifting on the palate with its glycerol mouthfeel, Paul Cluver Noble Late Harvest seduces with those irresistible flavours of apricot, lemon meringue and marmalade, underscored by an intriguing floral note of nectar. Which makes drinking this wine worthy of an Evelyn Waugh line from Brideshead Revisited: “I was drowning in honey, stingless.”

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

1. Ernie Els Proprietor’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2016

2. Brookdale Sixteen Field Blend 2021

3. Paul Cluver’s Noble Late Harvest 2020

NEW WINE IN TIME FOR WINTER

As the cool winter weather kisses the coast and seeps across the subcontinent, it’s the perfect time to warm the innards with the delicious new offerings of some of the country’s finest wineries. And, thanks to climate-controlled rooms and the many gloriously sunny days South Africa gets in winter, it’s not only red, red wine on our agenda this issue.

BY THEA BECKMAN

STEENBERG FIVE LIVES RED BLEND 2019

Steenberg praises the legacy of its pioneering (and indomitable) 17th century founder, Catharina Ras, with its new 2019 Bordeaux style red blend. Crafted by cellar master Elunda Basson, Steenberg Five Lives is a glorious marriage of silky, elegant Merlot (76%) and powerful, structured Cabernet Sauvignon (24%). Steenberg has long focused its viticulture on traditional Bordeaux varieties, which shows in the lush, velvety texture, structure and lengthy finish of this wine, which can be cellared for up to five years. The nose bursts with blackcurrant cassis, basil and plum underscored by an earthy character typical of Steenberg’s distinctive terroir.

R175 per bottle

DURBANVILLE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022

in that 13 wineries contributed to its and jasmine and flavours of tropical citrus, granadilla and blackcurrant.

The 13 wineries of the Durbanville Wine Valley have come together in a rare collaborative effort to craft the inaugural vintage of this milestone Sauvignon Blanc. The cool-climate appellation of Durbanville bears a lofty reputation for Sauvignon Blanc, with its wineries consistently taking home top honours in this category. But the Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc 2022 is significant in that 13 wineries contributed to its creation, with final production being entrusted to veteran winemaker Charles Hopkins and Morgan Steyn of De Grendel. The result is a dry wine full on the palate with ostentatious notes of apple, pear and jasmine and flavours of tropical citrus, granadilla and blackcurrant. R110 per bottle

PINOT NOUVEAU 2022

elegant wine, which pairs beautifully

From the sea-spray baptised slopes of the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley in the southwestern Cape comes this typical Beaujolais Nouveau-style wine, courtesy of Hasher Family Estate. With Pinot Noir grapes picked in the afternoon, still warm on the vine, the Pinot Nouveau 2022 is made as a celebratory wine at the end of harvest, intended to be enjoyed immediately after bottling. On the nose, this medium-bodied red boasts vibrant notes of red and blackberries with subtle hints of peach. A refreshing acidity cuts through the abundant fruit of this youthful yet elegant wine, which pairs beautifully with most foods, or, you know, just enjoyed on its own. Recommendation: serve slightly chilled!

R350 per bottle

BENGUELA COVE LIGHTHOUSE COLLECTION ROSÉ 2022

The new Benguela Cove Lighthouse Collection Rosé 2022 is a vibrant and mouth-watering Syrah-driven rosé from the Walker Bay wine region. The Lighthouse Collection wines are characterised by vivid fruit expression, lower acidity and softer tannins, making them easy drinking and a versatile pairing with food. (This range was named in honour of the estate’s lighthouse, a beacon that historically guided ships to safety in a climate known for its stormy weather; ironically, the same climate that produces the exceptional fruits used to craft its wines!) Benguela Cove’s 2022 Rosé serves up a cornucopia of fruits, florals and candied aromas, from strawberries, watermelon, and cherry nougat to citrus, pineapple and lemon verbena. R115 per bottle

CONSTANTIA WHITE 2020

Following in the hallowed, fivestar Platter Guide footsteps of its predecessor vintage, Wade Bales’ Constantia White 2020 is a wine of great texture, tension, and elegance and a stellar showcase of this historical valley’s exceptional terroir. This white blend of 78% Sauvignon Blanc and 22% Semillon is a collaborative effort between the winemakers of the Constantia Valley, with Constantia Glen’s Justin van Wyk taking the reins on this vintage. The Constantia White 2020 delivers bold, tropical fruit on the nose with delicate aromatics of lime, green fig and orange blossom. The palate is deliciously balanced with fresh citrus, stony mineral nuances, good fruit concentration and mouthfilling creamy textures.

R220 per bottle

TOKARA RESERVE COLLECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2019

Stellenbosch’s undisputed king cultivar, Cabernet Sauvignon, has long been on the agenda at Tokara Wine & Olive Estate, which has, year after year, produced two robust reds of an exceptional calibre: the highly acclaimed Director’s Reserve Red and Reserve Collection Cabernet Sauvignon. And this year is no different. From its vineyards on the foothills of the Simonsberg, winemaker Stuart Botha has produced an elegant and richly textured expression of this noble varietal with the 2019 vintage of the Tokara Reserve Collection Cabernet Sauvignon. On the palate, an explosion of dark cherry, red currant and fynbos scrub: the perfect accompaniment to winter evenings and rich, meaty meals. R270 per bottle

LA MOTTE CAP CLASSIQUE 2018

The 2018 La Motte Cap Classique belongs to a great lineage of wines from a Franschhoek estate that, every vintage, proves South Africans know how to make outstanding traditional method wines! A blend of 91% Chardonnay and 9% Pinot Noir, this classic sparkling wine blend is bone dry with a fine mousse, crisp, mouthsmacking freshness on the palate, and a sophisticated bouquet of citrus, freshly baked bread and roasted nuts. With age, the Brut Natural La Motte Cap Classique 2018, of which only 4,300 bottles were released, is expected to develop richer flavours; truly, a triumph of La Motte cellar master Edmund Terblanche. R390 per bottle

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LAND LONG WHITE THE OF THE

With New Zealand finally opening its borders to the world, travellers are making plans to reconnect with friends and family. Travel writer Jared Ruttenberg was one of the first back into the country and shares four of his favourite getaways.

BY JARED RUTTENBERG

CLOUD

ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND IN QUEENSTOWN

Welcome to Queenstown, widely considered New Zealand’s gateway to adventure – and rightfully so – with a startling array of thrilling activities to suit every adrenaline level. Choose from tandem skydiving to river surfing, canyon swinging, jet boats, or New Zealand’s highest bungy jump.

The town is easily explored on foot. Just ensure to brave the queues for a Fergburger (an inventive and delicious burger, from a local restaurant, Fergburger) as it is certainly worth the wait. The Skyline is a gondolastyle cable car that lifts you 450m high to the Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar and o ers unsurpassed city views. Queenstown is only a few hours’ drive from some of the country’s most dramatic scenery; hire a car and drive to Milford Sound to explore the iconic ord or north to the formidable Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak.

For a unique home base, consider The Sherwood just outside the town. Their commitment to sustainability and supporting the local community is profoundly evident. A truly authentic alternative to bigger hotels, where you’ll feel at home from the minute you arrive.

sherwoodqueenstown.nz

WINE RETREAT IN MARTINBOROUGH

There’s no shortage of enticing wine regions spread across the country, but perhaps none as charming as Martinborough. This small town is a convenient one-hour drive from Wellington and is surrounded by boutique wineries. What’s more, most of them are within walking or cycling distance from the town centre. It hardly gets more convenient. Begin the tastings at Palliser’s chic tasting room, making sure to sip the Brut MCC –or Méthode Traditionnelle as referred to locally – and then the naturally fermented Chardonnay. Next, set the GPS for Luna Estate Winery, where the Eclipse Restaurant is sure to tempt you for lunch after your tasting. Lastly, a few steps away is Moy Hall; its casual outdoor dining area is set within the vineyards. While the wooded Pinot Gris is an

appealing option, the show-stopper is the flagship Terrace Pinot Noir, spending an impressive 30 months in oak before bottling.

Once you’ve had your fill, retire to the Martinborough Hotel, New Zealand’s oldest continuously operated hotel, which proudly overlooks the town square. Ask for a room on the top storey of the heritage building as they spill onto the wraparound balcony and boast Instaworthy black and white chequered bathrooms. The downstairs Union Square Bistro serves up tasty breakfasts to be paired with a Mimosa, of course, and I suggest completing the day with a meal at the neighbouring Crouching Tiger for the finest Asian infused-cuisine. martinboroughhotel.co.nz

ROMANTIC HIDEAWAY IN KAPITI

The Kapiti Coast has long been a destination for Wellingtonians seeking a country escape. The coastline is dotted with small towns and no shortage of holiday homes (known locally as a bach) for rental. You’ll easily spot the towering Kapiti Island from the beach, which, if you’re up for a thrill, can be admired on a scenic chopper flight.

Begin exploring with a visit to Waikanae’s Salt and Wood BQ. Not only can you get acquainted with their infamous ‘dirty fries’ –pulled pork, cheese, pork rub and gravy – but

also a selection of craft beers produced on site. When it’s time for that romantic escape from it all, head for the nearby hills and cosy in at the beautiful Cottage 103 - where you’ll discover an extraordinary blend of country character and classy charm. Cottage 103 is a luxurious escape just over an hour’s drive north of Wellington, set in countless acres of farmlands. So much so that the closest neighbours who may come to the fence to visit are donkeys and horses. And with a wooden spa bath that stares out over the valley, what more do you need? sudbury.co.nz

URBAN ESCAPE IN AUCKLAND

Although not the capital, Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest and busiest city. Its sprawling suburbs, flanked by over 50 volcanoes and waterways, are best admired from above. At a staggering 328m, Skytower is the highest structure in the southern hemisphere, and for those not afraid of heights, the 51-storey journey to the top is bound to provide a thrill. Daredevils can also bungy o the tower or try the external SkyWalk.

To stay terra firma, head to the Silo Park, reminiscent of Cape Town’s Silo District; the

structures once used for storing concrete now serve up entertainment. Silo 6 is used as an art and exhibition space, and the Silo Park’s cinema is projected against the walls of Silo 7.

For the avid day-trippers, there are many islands and beaches to explore; oenophiles will salivate on an excursion to the nearby Waiheke Island, home to over 30 wineries.

When it’s time to rest your head, look no further than the Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour. Celebrating the pillars of fashion,

design and intuitive hospitality, the hotel is possibly Auckland’s most elegant accommodation o ering in one of its prime positions. The pièce de résistance is the Luxury Marina View Rooms, where guests can languish over vistas of both harbour and skyline. Consider adding the signature Club Millésime Access, which includes private checkin, executive breakfast, Le Goûter afternoon tea, Apéro chic with hor d’oeuvres, wines and cocktails and more. sofitel-auckland.com

FUN FACTS

VOLCANO LAND

1

New Zealand is situated on what’s known as the Pacific Ring of Fire. A few of these volcanoes are still active, including Mt Ruapehu, known as Mt Doom from The Lord of the Rings . Auckland itself sits on a large volcanic field of approximately 53 volcanoes.

2

WANNA PLAY GOLF?

New Zealand has over 400 golf courses, second highest per capital globally.

3 THE CLEAREST OF THEM ALL

Found in the Tasman region of New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson’s Blue Lake is the clearest in the world, with up to 80 metres of visibility.

HUMANS VS ANIMALS

4

Of all population in the country, only 5% is human. The rest are animals.

5

KIWI FRUIT OR BIRD?

Kiwi fruit is from China. The Kiwi bird is a bird native to New Zealand that cannot fly.

FAMILY (BUS)INESS

A road trip is best spent with family and friends. That’s precisely what we did in the new Kia Carnival (seen here in SX Limited guise), travelling along the picturesque Garden Route to Cape Town. This family-mover left a lasting impression. BY MARIUS

BOONZAIER

Although boxy in design, the Carnival doesn’t look all that vanlike, like some of its rivals. It cuts a dashing figure. The exterior styling features slim LED headlamps, striking daytime-running lights, and a more contemporary version of Kia’s ‘tiger nose’ grille. The taillamp cluster sports a similarly stylish LED arrangement. Chrome detailing adds sophistication. The SX Limited is equipped with fashionable 19-inch wheels.

The interior is also less van-like. Opening the front or electrically sliding rear doors (via keyless entry) reveals a solidly constructed, leather-upholstered cabin. It feels premium. The 12.3-inch touch-enabled infotainment display featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is surrounded by gloss black trim.

Wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats are included. Further convenience and safety items are a 360-degree camera system, which makes parking the seven-seater a cinch, ‘smart’ cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist. Isofix anchorages are fitted to the middle chairs and rear bench. It’s a fuss-free task to attach child seats. An interior highlight, the windows at the middle row can wind down, which is uncommon in this segment.

The cabin is spacious. Kia claims a luggage capacity of 1 139 litres when all seats are in position. Removing the second seats and stowing the third row enhances this to 4 110 litres.

The driving position is also more car-like. However, the Carnival still a ords its driver a commanding view of the road. The ‘Smartstream’ turbodiesel engine is punchy and e cient. The 2.2-litre four-cylinder produces 148 kW and 440 Nm and sips a claimed 6.8 L/100 km, allowing a range of 1 059 km on a full tank. This is thanks to the engine’s refinement and smooth eight-speed automatic transmission.

It’s arguably the ideal family and road-trip vehicle. Priced at R999 995, boasting a six-year/90 000 km maintenance plan and five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, the second-to-top-tier variant is the model to purchase.

BOOK CLUB

Curl up with one of these new, must-read books this winter.

ABUNDANCE

Written by The New York Times bestselling author and master of modern meditation, Deepak Chopra, Abundance is an enlightening guide to success and fulfilment. The book talks about the importance of resetting our focus and striving for new possibilities in a time of fear and insecurity. Chopra is one of the world’s pioneers in integrative medicine and personal transformation and is the founder of The Chopra Foundation and co-founder of Chopra Global.

Cover price: R350 | Published by Penguin Random House

THE MILK TART MURDERS

The Milk Tart Murders by Sally Andrew is the next instalment from the Tannie Maria Mystery series. In this novel, Tannie Maria and her policeman boyfriend Henk find themselves at the scene of a murder at a movie screening in Ladismith. Then, a second body is discovered, and there’s a clue: a letter addressed to Tannie Maria asking for advice, as well as a milk tart recipe. Maria and feisty young journalist Jess begin their murder investigation with their own set of unique skills.

Cover price: R290 | Published by Penguin Random House

WHEN WE WERE BIRDS

Written by Ayanna Lloyd Banwo, When We Were Birds is a love – and ghost – story set in modern-day Trinidad. It tells the tale of Darwin, a gravedigger who has recently arrived in the city of Port Angeles to seek his fortune, and Yejide, a woman with the power to talk to the departed. Darwin and Yejide’s destinies are intertwined, and they find each other at the ancient cemetery at the heart of the city, where trouble is brewing.

Cover price: R290 | Published by Penguin Random House

RUN, ROSE, RUN

Run, Rose, Run , a collaboration between Dolly Parton and James Patterson, is a thriller that tells the tale of a young singer-songwriter on the rise. AnnieLee Keyes is a promising songwriter who moves to Nashville to get her chance to sing about the hard life she has left behind. But AnnieLee is also on the run. Expect plenty of danger and desire in this story by America’s most beloved superstar and one of its greatest storytellers.

Cover price: R320 | Published by Penguin Random House

EMBRACE YOUR ELEGANT POWER

Nicky Rowbotham’s Embrace Your Elegant Power teaches the reader to carve a path to success through ease and to redefine success on our own terms by owning what makes us unique. The book calls us to shift perspective to a more thoughtful simplicity and allow for a more aligned, authentic energy to be revealed. It’s packed with personal and transformative stories and insight to inspire and motivate.

Cover price: R260 | Published by Tracey McDonald Publishers

THERE IS AN INCREDIBLE BRAVERY IN WALKING AWAY FROM WHAT NO LONGER SERVES US. EMBRACE THAT NO CAN BE BEAUTIFUL. THEY CREATE CLARITY, CLOSE DOORS THAT YOU ARE NOT MEANT TO WALK THROUGH AND THEY CREATE SPACE FOR ENERGETIC ALIGNMENT.

- Nicky Rowbotham

THE DICTIONARY OF LOST WORDS

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams tells how in 1901, the word ‘bondmaid’ was discovered missing from the Oxford English Dictionary – and the story of the girl who stole it. Esme, a curious young girl, spends her childhood in the Scriptorium, a garden shed in Oxford where her father and a team of lexicographers are gathering words for the very first Oxford English Dictionary. Beneath the sorting table, Esme sees a slip containing the word ‘bondmaid’ flutter unclaimed to the floor, and so begins her collection of words for another dictionary: The Dictionary of Lost Words

Cover price: R215 | Published by Penguin Random House

STOCKISTS

Beauty

CHANEL BOUTIQUES Sandton City, Johannesburg & V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

CURLS IN BLOOM www.curlsinbloom.co.za

FENTY BEAUTY & FENTY SKINCARE

Available at Arc Stores & Edgars

HERMÈS Available at selected Woolworths, Truworths, Edgars and Arc stores

MONDAY HAIRCARE www.mondayhaircare.com

MOROCCANOIL www.moroccanoil.com

ROOTS DOUBLE EFFECT Available at Clicks & Takealot.com

UMBERTO GIANNINI Available at Clicks

Style

COUNTRY ROAD www.woolworths.co.za

DIESEL www.diesel.co.za

G-STAR RAW www.g-star.com

HAILEY BIEBER X VOGUE EYEWEAR www.luxottica.com

SCOTCH & SODA www.scotch-soda.co.za

STEVE MADDEN www.stevemadden.co.za

THOMAS SABO www.thomassabo.co.za

RAY-BAN | SUNGLASS HUT www.sunglasshut.com

TIMBERLAND www.timberland.co.za

TREAD+MILLER www.treadandmiller.co.za

Packed with delightful smart features. The exceptionally versatile STARIA will have you looking forward to the fun of the next road trip. The perfect choice for large families comes with swiveling independent seats, a long sliding adjustment function, and loads of other comforts and convenience features that magically shrink long distances.