Urban Fox - November 2020 Issue

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November 2020

WIN

Ragdale Experience Mint Velvet Scarf Skandinavisk Candles

It's a Wrap

Colourful coats

ICE QUEEN COOL SKINCARE

Hot Metal Flaunt your foliage

70's

FLARE Step back in time

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 1

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URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 3

laces Beautiful Stone Fireplaces Beautiful Stone Fireplaces Beautiful

Hello

With winter fast approaching it's time to prepare for the colder weather. No we don’t mean de-icing the car and digging out your Long Johns, more luxe loungewear, homemade puds and movie marathons.

So come on, join the Winter-Fest in this month’s Urban Fox.

COVER SHOT:

Sailor Shirt, £29.95, Draycott Beret, £22.95, Seasalt

We kick off with AW20’s most colourful coats, classic styles guaranteed to brighten the dreariest of days. And from winter days to Shades of Grey -

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URBANFOX MARTINA LENAGHAN Editor editor@theurban-fox.co.uk STEVE LENAGHAN Head of Sales & Marketing 07738 614245 steve@theurban-fox.co.uk

charcoal, slate, smoke… (I won’t name all 50 of them) are dominating this season’s collections. And as the chill sets in, it’s the perfect time to step up your Ice Queen beauty regime with the coolest skincare products around.

On the home front we’re keeping the home fires burning with our pick of luxury log holders, they’re everything your Hearth Desires. Creating cosy interiors, certain to see you right through to spring. Plus we’re bringing the outside in… well the plants at least…with the latest Hot Metal planters, designed to flaunt your foliage to the fullest.

But if winter is leaving you cold, tired and unmotivated, check out guide to boosting your health and wellbeing in Embrace the Cold. We heat you up from the inside with our delicious Winter Warmers. And Kirsty France is on hand to share her tips and tricks for those Chilly Day Holidays, that even the pandemic (hopefully) can’t spoil.

We’ll be back next month, spreading a little Christmas joy in our Deck the Halls edition. Until then we’d love to hear about how you’ll be doing winter your way.

Share with us on Facebook and #JointheConversation.

20-21

HEARTH'S

Desires

LISA ROTH Head of New Business Development 07843 851132 lisa@theurban-fox.co.uk GILLIAN GATT Sales Consultant 07468 469971 Gillian@theurban-fox.co.uk

19

Garden Trading

HOMES & GARDE NS

Keep the home fires burning this winte r, with our selection of luxury log holde rs.

They’re everything your hearth desir es.

Ivyline Round Log Holder, £54.99, Dobbies

Leather Log Holder, £90, Amara

Black Iron Log Holder, £60, Trouva

Eldvarm Wood Basket, £415, Skandium

Log Holder, £59.99, Joules

11

KATIE TURNBULL Designer katie@theurban-fox.co.uk

Quilted Look Log Bucket, £45, Amara

Kelston Log Holder, £145, Garden Trading

Wicker Log Holder, £69.99, Dobbies

Disclaimer: Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, the editor can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either editorial or advertising content.

Copyright: All text, images and design in this publication are subject to copyright.

Any unauthorised duplication is strictly prohibited. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given to use it in this publication.

Lodge Log Carrier, £45, Garden Trading

URBAN FOX NOVEMB ER 2020 21

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9

13

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 5

November HEALTH & WELLBEING

34

15 Embrace the Cold 10 ways to wellness

WINING & DINING 16 Winter Warmers Hearty homemade puds

HOMES & GARDENS 19 70's Flare

Step back in time 20 Hearth's Desires

Luxury log holders

25

25 T ime to Hibernate Create a cosy interior 29 Smooth Moves Relocating in a pandemic

LIFE & WORK 33 Step Up

...the career ladder

31 Hot Metal

Flaunt your foliage

34 Simply Marvellous Rachel Brosnahan interview

16

37 Who's the Boss?

Luxe office wares

PEOPLE & PLACES

FASHION & BEAUTY

38 Chilly Day Holidays

Covid-proof your break

8 Shades of Grey

The new neutral 11 It's a Wrap

Colourful coats 13 Ice Queen

Cool skincare

10 WIN SCARF BY

MINT VELVET

14 WIN SPA EXPERIENCE AT RAGDALE

26 WIN CANDLES BY

SKANDINAVISK

The

Cotton Submariner Jumper

We are Paul James - a luxury, Leicestershire-based knitwear manufacturer. We strive to deliver the purest knitwear experience, which is why we shun man-made fibres, instead using only 100% natural fibre yarns in the production of our knitwear.

Welcome to the world of timeless and sustainable fashion.

click catalogue request on our website footer for your free copy of our current brochure

pauljamesknitwear.com

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 7

Flocked Animal Sweatshirt, £79

WHISTLES

Anna Deep Sole Trainer, £139 Knitted Merino Tube Skirt, £89

MINT VELVET

Shades OF GREY

From charcoal to slate and smoke, shades of grey dominate AW20 collections. Think sharp suiting, utility styles Knotted Midi Shirt and luxe knitwear.

Dress, £119

Harriet Hobo Bag, £139

Ezra Ankle Boots, £149

FASHION & BEAUTY

Isla Metallic Asymmetric Top, £125

REISS

Rosalie Wrap-Front Trousers, £195

Hepburn Satin Court Shoes, £150

Prince of Wales Check Jumpsuit, £350

Audrey Glitter Courts, £195

Miranda Crossbody Bag, £225

L.K.BENNETT URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 9

private viewings now available by appointment

MON - SAT 11 AM - 3PM

!

N I W TARA SCARF from Mint Velvet You could be the lucky winner of this Tara Animal Print Scarf from Mint Velvet.

Printed all over with animal-inspired abstract spots, this navy scarf is soft and airy - perfect as an everyday accessory, or as a travelling companion. We love its frayed edges - wear yours knotted around your neck or loosely draped over your shoulders. The scarf measures length 196cm/77in and width 100cm/39in.

TO ENTER:

Mint Velvet’s luxury women’s dresses, tops and accessories, combine modern silhouettes with artisan prints in the softest fabrics. Browse their new arrivals at www.mintvelvet.co.uk or visit the Market Harborough Boutique or franchise in John Lewis, Leicester.

Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn after the specified closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The competition may be withdrawn at any time.

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Mint Velvet’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Monday 30 November 2020.

FASHION & BEAUTY

It's A

Wrap

Wrap up your winter wardrobe with a pop of colour. Classic belted designs in colour block brights, perfect for dreary days.

1

4

2

3

7

8

5

6

1 P.A.R.O.S.H. Coat, £547, Farfetch 2 Nicci Coat, £210, Phase Eight 3 Wool Wrap Coat, £295, Whistles 4 Cartwright Coat, £190, Boden 5 Olivia Coat, £349, Hobbs 6 Lauren Coat, £499, Winser London 7 Boucle Coat, £79, Topshop 8 Elisa Coat, Ochre,

£289, Hobbs

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As the chill sets in, it’s time to step up your beauty regime with these cool skincare products.

SUNSCREEN This innovative feather-light formula, boasts protection powers way beyond sunscreen with a 360˚ protection from UVA, UVB, thermal and infrared radiation.

Sarah Chapman Skin Insurance, £54.

FACEWASH A sulphate-free formula that removes all makeup and impurities without stripping skin of moisture. Omorovicza Cleansing Foam, £14.

EXFOLIATOR Powerful, yet gentle, this formula supports the skin's moisture barrier and leaves the complexion looking firmer and feeling soft and hydrated. Elemis Pro-Collagen Anti-Ageing Tri-Acid Peel, £70.

MOISTURISER Dehydrated, dull skin?

Quench with Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Silky Cream, Normal/Dry Skin, £37. Moisturises and boosts radiance with Beautyberry extract.

SERUM Lancôme Advanced Génifique Sensitive Dual Concentrate, £60.

A freshly activated dual concentrate that will make your skin feel soothed and reinforced against environmental aggressors.

LIP BALM La Mer The Lip Balm, £52.

This velveteen balm with a hint of mint calms, restores and conditions, transforming lips with the most tender touch.

NIGHT CREAM An overnight treatment which replenishes the complexion giving smoother looking skin, with visible bounce-back.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix Moisturiser, £148.

TONER Refresh, soothe and brighten the appearance of skin with this heavenly floralscented, nondrying toner.

Liz Earle Instant Boost™ Skin Tonic, £16.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 13

WIN!

SPA EXPERIENCE at Ragdale Hall Spa

Ragdale Hall Spa is offering one lucky reader the chance to win an Evening Spa Experience for two people. Ragdale Hall Spa is dedicated to your wellness, believing everyone needs breathing space from their world, by taking time to press pause, realign and recharge. Ragdale Hall Spa unveiled a brand-new cocktail lounge - Twilight Bar, the perfect setting to reconnect with loved ones after a day spent relaxing in the Spa and pools.

be ordered online at www.ragdalehall.co.uk or by telephone on 01664 433030. E-Vouchers are also available.

For details visit: www.ragdalehall.co.uk or call: 01664 433030

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Ragdale Hall’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Monday 30 November 2020.

If you’re not the lucky winner, Ragdale Hall Spa gift vouchers are the best way to give the gift of ‘metime’ to friends, family and loved ones this festive season. With vouchers available for all packages, whether you’re looking for a stocking-filler or a stand-out gift, there’s something to suit all tastes and pockets. All vouchers are valid for a whole year and come beautifully packaged. Gift vouchers can

Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Arrival at 6.30pm, departure at 9.30pm and includes use of the spa plus a 2-course meal. Prize is valid Monday – Thursday and must be taken within six months of the date the winner is notified. Guests must be aged 16 or over. Travel is not included. Prize is non-transferable, non-refundable & cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Services and facilities may change at any time in line with the latest government guidance relating to Covid-19.

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EMBRACE THE

COLD Feeling tired, unmotivated and ready to hibernate? Try out our tips and tricks to boost your health and wellbeing this winter.

1

Wake up gently. Invest in a Lumie Bodyclock, an alarm clock that wakes you with a gradually brightening sunrise. Waking like this helps to regulate your sleep/ wake cycle and has even been shown to boost mood, energy and productivity levels for the rest of the day.

5

Don’t forget to exercise. It can be tempting to hibernate during the colder months, but push yourself to exercise and you'll really notice a difference.

Whether it’s walking the dog, running, cycling or using an outdoor gym, you’ll boost both your physical and mental health.

2

Increase your vitamin D. The best exposure is 11:00-15.00 so get out for a 15 minute walk, even if the sun isn’t shining. Still not getting enough? Try eating more foods high in vitamin D, take a daily supplement and sit by a window when you’re indoors.

3

Pretend it's summer. Surround yourself with bright, bold colours.

Treat yourself to a bunch of flowers, new cushions for the sofa, or an on-trend colour pop coat. You'll be surprised how much better you feel by physically brightening up those dull days.

4

Crack a smile. Research tells us that our mood is elevated and stress levels reduced if we plaster a big smile on our face, even if just for a short period of time.

Thankfully the smile doesn't even have to be based on real emotion, so faking it works too.

6

Eat healthily. What we eat can have a real effect on our state of mind. Avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates, which send you on a rollercoaster of sugar peaks and crashes. Large meals can reap havoc too, so eat little and often to help reduce the cravings.

7

Stay hydrated. Although a glass of cold water may not be the first drink you’re drawn to in the winter, aim to have at least 8 glasses a day.

Dehydration inhibits the immune system’s function, making it harder for your body to fight off colds and the flu.

8

Free your mind. The greater the demands imposed on us, the greater the need to switch off. Practicing mindfulness, meditation or yoga, can create a sense of peace and reduce stress. The beauty of these relaxation techniques is that they can be done anytime, anywhere and for free.

9

Sleep well. A good night’s sleep is important for revitalising and restoring the mind and body.

Getting 8 hours good quality sleep each night will help keep your immune system resilient.

10

Beat the blues. Finally while it's normal to slow down over winter, there are conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder that cause fatigue and low mood. Treatments are available so do speak to your GP if you’re concerned you may be affected.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 15

Images and recipes: Waitrose

WINTER

Warmers More hot than haute, nothing beats a hearty homemade pud on a chilly winter day. These seasonal Waitrose warmers are the kitchen equivalent of a cosy cashmere cardigan.

STICKY CLEMENTINE PUDDINGS Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 30-35 minutes Serves: 8 Ingredients: 175g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 5 easy peelers clementines 3 tbsp golden syrup 175g golden caster sugar 3 medium free range eggs, beaten 85g self-raising flour 85g fresh white breadcrumbs 1 tsp ground mixed spice 1 carrot, coarsely grated 75g sultanas

1

2

Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Lightly butter 8 x 150ml pudding moulds or ramekins and 8 small squares of foil. Cut 8 thick slices from 2 clementines then grate the zest and squeeze the juice from the remainder. Pour the golden syrup into the base of the moulds then sit a slice of clementine in each one.

Whisk the butter and sugar until pale then slowly whisk in the eggs. Stir in the flour, zest

and juice, breadcrumbs, spice, carrot and sultanas. Spoon into the dishes then cover with the foil, buttered-side down.

3

Place in a roasting tin and pour hot water into the tin until it comes halfway up the side of the dishes. Bake for 30-35 minutes until set.

4

Run a small knife along the inside of the moulds then invert onto small plates. Serve with warmed custard.

WINING & DINING

APPLE & SULTANA CIDER CAKE Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 60 minutes Serves: 12 Ingredients: 100g sultanas 100ml medium sweet cider 225g plain flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp ground cinnamon 225g golden caster sugar 225g unsalted dairy butter, softened 2 free range eggs 750g (6) British seasonal apples 5 peeled and cored, 1 kept whole 1 tbsp pure clear honey

1

Put the sultanas in a bowl with 3 tbsp of the cider and set aside.

Heat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4.

Grease and line a 23cm round loosebottomed cake tin. Tie a thick band of brown paper around the outside of the tin and secure it with string (to stop the cake edge burning).

2

Sift together the flour, baking powder and cinnamon. In a separate, large mixing bowl, place the sugar and butter then beat with a handheld electric mixer for 1 minute until pale and creamy. Add the eggs 1 at a time and beat in for 1 minute along with the remaining cider.

3

Quarter, core and slice the whole apple and cut the 5 others into 1cm pieces. Fold the apple pieces, sultanas and juices into the egg mixture then the flour mixture. Stir well then spoon into the tin. Arrange the apple slices on top of the cake mixture and bake for 1 hour, covering with foil once it is browned on top.

Bake until a skewer comes out clean when inserted into the cake centre.

4

Remove from the tin, brush with the honey and leave to cool. Serve just warm with clotted cream.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 17

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HOMES & GARDENS

Fendi

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70's

FLARE

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From earthy hues to funky designs, this season we’re taking a trip back in time to the 1970s.

Flares optional.

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1 Melvin Armchair, £795, Sweetpea and Willow 2 Retro Telephone, £49.95, Cuckooland 3 Tabor Pots, £38-£92, Amara 4 Carmella Lamp Shade, £35, Made.com 5 Dutchbone Bella Side Table, £239, Cuckooland 6 Reversible Rectangle Velvet Cushion, £32, Mint & May 7 Berkeley Marble Sideboard, £799, Atkin and Thyme 8 Tarabiza Pouffe, £398.95, Einrichten Design URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 19

Garden Trading

HEARTH'S

Desires

Keep the home fires burning this winter, with our selection of luxury log holders.

They’re everything your hearth desires.

HOMES & GARDENS

Ivyline Round Log Holder, £54.99, Dobbies Leather Log Holder, £90, Amara

Black Iron Log Holder, £60, Trouva

Eldvarm Wood Basket, £415, Skandium Log Holder, £59.99, Joules

Quilted Look Log Bucket, £45, Amara

Wicker Log Holder, £69.99, Dobbies

Kelston Log Holder, £145, Garden Trading

Lodge Log Carrier, £45, Garden Trading

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 21

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sales@broughtons.com

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Please make an appointment to view both the bathroom and kitchen showrooms due to Covid-19

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T: F: 01530 811593 E: 01530 815359 W: info@splashout.co.uk www.splashout.co.uk URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 23

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Images: Garden Trading

HOMES & GARDENS

TIME TO

Hibernate With darker nights and dipping temperatures, the thought of hibernating is an appealing one.

Here’s our guide to creating a warm winter interior, to see you right through to spring.

ENTRANCE

As you step through the door of your home you want to feel an instant sense of warmth and respite from the elements. Minimise drafts with curtains and pretty yet practical excluders; and create a cosy ambience with aromas of eucalyptus, cinnamon and chopped firewood.

SITTING ROOM

Planning on snuggling up in front of the TV? Fill your sitting room with things you want to touch.

An old leather chair, a soft woollen throw, a textured rug.

Mixing dissimilar pieces (glass, marble, wood) will create visual texture, while layering your lighting will produce a warm tranquil living space.

SNUG

There’s nothing better than getting back from a cold brisk walk and sitting by the fire with a book.

If you don’t have a snug, no worries, an unused corner will do. All you need is a soft, comfy armchair, a cosy blanket, a cuppa, or bowl of soup, and a good book. And relax.

BEDROOM

And so to bed. Opt for darker hues or Scandi inspired panelling on the walls. It’ll envelop your bedroom, creating the ideal space to unwind and slumber. Accessorise with cushions, throws and blankets, perfect for hibernation. And don’t forget to indulge in a cosy breakfast in bed.

BATHROOM

As the evenings get darker, there's nothing quite like a bath to soak away the stresses of the day. Light some candles, add essential oils or luxurious bubbles and take some time to restore your energy. Don’t forget the fluffy towels and bath robe to wrap around you when you get out.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 25

Why Choose Us? - Wide Variety Of Fittings - Friendly Expert Advice - Warranty On All Fittings - Lighting Design Service Available - Quality Checking On All Fittings - Fitting Service Available

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!

N I W

ÖNSKA CANDLES

by Skandinavisk Win this ÖNSKA Candle Gift Set by Skandinavisk containing mini JUL, SNÖ, TRÆ candles from Skandinavisk.

Capturing the ritual of bringing nature indoors during the dark winter months, this beautiful selection of scents will fill your home with the aroma of baked gingerbread and warm glogg, wintery coniferous forests and freshly fallen snow. Featuring 3 x 60g glass votives, each is hand-poured in France and boasts up to 20 hours’ burn time.

Skandinavisk can be found in some of the best design, fashion and fragrance stores worldwide or shop online at www.skandinavisk.com

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Skandinavisk’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Monday 30 November 2020.

Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn after the specified closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The competition may be withdrawn at any time.

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Neptune

SMOOTH

MOVES

Moving home is stressful enough, but as you navigate the new normal this winter, you may find the process of searching for and relocating into a new property very different. Here’s our top tips for a smoother move.

1

You can still market your home and estate agents can visit in order to take photos and videos of your property. You may want to vacate the property while this is being done to ensure social distancing.

2

To help prevent the spread of infection, it is recommended that you carry out initial property searches online and only visit a property in person when you are seriously considering making an offer on it.

3

If you wish to buy a new-build property, you should contact the developer. You should be able to make an appointment to view the show home or visit the particular plot you are interested in purchasing.

4

For all other properties, viewings should be by appointment only. Due to social distancing guidance and the rule of six, ‘open house’ viewings are not permitted at the current time.

5

Physical viewings should include no more than 2 households inside the property at any one time. This includes any agent accompanying either party. Although anyone in a support bubble will count as part of that household.

6

Where prospective buyers are from separate households and want to view the property at the same time, it is advised that one household leaves the property to allow the other to enter.

7

When viewing properties in person, you should wear a face mask, avoid touching surfaces wherever possible, wash your hands regularly and/or use hand sanitiser.

8

If people are being shown around your home, you should open all internal doors and ensure surfaces, such as door handles, are cleaned after each viewing with standard household cleaning products.

9

Be as flexible as possible and be prepared for delays. For example, if there’s a national or local lockdown or if a member of the chain becomes ill with COVID-19 during the moving process or has to self-isolate.

10

If you’re entering into a legally binding contract, you should discuss the possible implications of COVID-19 with your legal professional and consider making contractual provisions to manage these risks.

11

Prospective buyers may wish to visit your property again once they have agreed a sale; for example to measure up.

Ensure you continue to follow appropriate hygiene measures and maintain social distancing at all times.

12

Finally when moving between properties, you and your family should try to do as much of the packing yourself as you can.

Where this is not possible, you should speak to removal firms in advance for advice.

For up to date guidance on home moving during the COVID-19 outbreak visit Gov.uk URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 29

Beautiful spaces for work, rest and play

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Discover how we use the latest techniques alongside traditional carpentry and joinery methods to create bespoke timber structures to your specifications.

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HOMES & GARDENS

Hot

Metal 1

4

Suited to both classic and contemporary homes, gold, cooper and brass planters, are the hottest way to flaunt your foliage this season.

2

5

7

3

6

8

9

1 Pendere Diamond Hanging Planter, £45, Dwell 2 Large Brass Planter, £108, Audenza 3 Hanging Indoor Planter, £25, Cult Furniture 4 Bloomingville Flowerpots, £75, Amara 5 Rattan Brass Planter, £54, House Doctor 6 Boise Set of Hammered Planters, £79, Made.com 7 Pedestal Plant Pot Set, £26.50, Red Candy 8 Pothead Vase , £79, Pols Potten 9 Salix Large Planter, £35, Made.com

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 31

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Then we’ll begin…

Update your CV

Even if you’re not looking to change jobs right now, it’s good to be prepared should a promotion or departmental move come up in your existing company. Limit your CV to just 2 pages (what employer has the time or inclination to read more), describing your previous roles, skills and career goals. Remember to remove all acronyms and jargon.

Hone your communication skills

Take a break

Network, network, network

Work somewhere else…

Being able to speak clearly and concisely is invaluable in business.

Whether you’re speaking to your director, colleagues or clients, projecting your ideas effectively will inspire confidence and allow them to put their trust in you.

Whether it’s keeping up to date with new business developments and technology, or attending relevant training and conferences, staying on top of your industry is crucial if you want to climb the corporate ladder.

There are lots of generalist and industry specific groups you can join or simply invite a colleague or client out for coffee. Remember that building relationships can take time and effort, so even if you don’t make a connection straight away, it’s still one more person you can reach out to in the future.

Research yourself

Feel confident

Research your industry

Did you know that many employers will now check out your social network sites during the recruitment process? Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and that your Facebook page doesn’t contain any content that you wouldn’t be comfortable with your new boss seeing.

If you’ve ever procrastinated over applying for a job, or passed on a promotion because you’re “not ready”, this could be a sign that you’re sabotaging your own career.

It’s completely normal to be a bit nervous about change, but go on, feel the fear and do it anyway!

Travel offers the opportunity for personal growth and development.

From learning a new language, to expanding your network and improving your cultural awareness. It may even open a few unexpected doors once back in the corporate world.

Remember to check out the latest on ‘travel corridors’ before you book.

just temporarily. Volunteering not only benefits the organisation you volunteer for, but also you too. It’s a fantastic way to expand your personal and professional networks, learn new and transferable skills, explore other careers, plus help your CV stand out against others in a recruitment scenario.

Plot your course

How can you expect to reach your career goals if you don’t have a clear strategy in place? Take time out to make a plan of where you want to be in 3 or 5 years, and the steps you’ll need to take to get there. Think of it as a Sat Nav for your career until you reach your destination.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 33

Simply

Marvellous It might not be one of the more star-studded shows around, but The Marvellous Mrs Maisel has been steadily racking up acclaim from critics and fans alike for years, boosting its star, Rachel Brosnahan, firmly into the spotlight‌

LIFE & WORK

Delightfully bubbly and enthusiastic, Rachel Brosnahan has combined her easy smile and hearty laugh with an underlying en vogue sense of determination and individualism to play the title role in hit Amazon Prime Video series, The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel.

And as a result, the 29-year-old has emerged as a major new star, earning herself an Emmy and two Golden Globe awards as Best Actress in a Comedy Series for her work on the show.

assured leading roles to play on screen, Brosnahan has been lucky enough to draw some inspiration from her character, 50s housewifeturned-stand-up ‘Midge’ Maisel.

I love her proactive nature and especially how ambitious she is qualities that have been lacking in me at times.

“There’s been so many moments working on the show for the last three years where — I overuse the word ‘surreal,’ but that’s how it feels all the time...,” nods the Wisconsin-born Brosnahan, “I worry that I’m going to forget how insane and special and surreal this whole experience has been.”

“Midge is resilient and confident, and her sense of self-empowerment is something that I have tried to draw upon in my own life,” she nods. “I love her proactive nature and especially how ambitious she is - qualities that have been lacking in me at times. She is the kind of woman who wants to make you take on the world.

Small chance of that happening any time soon, after the actress just picked up yet another Emmy nod at this year’s virtual show.

Though she ultimately lost out to Canadian actress Catherine O’Hara, just as last year the gong went to Fleabag virtuoso Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Brosnahan’s continued presence on the red carpet is a testament to her journey both on and off the small screen.

“She's willing to defy a lot of the social conventions and double standards that govern how men and women should live and their roles in society. Midge has understood that having lived according to the social constraints of her time she had never really questioned why she had accepted that life. Then after that privileged world collapses, she realises that there are a lot of other possibilities open to her and she intends to embark on her own path.”

“Early in my career I had been told by casting agents and other people that I wasn't suited for comedy,” she reveals. “So it was definitely intimidating to audition for Maisel. We're four years into the show now and it doesn't get less intimidating, but the success of the series just goes to shows that we shouldn't put ourselves into boxes because for a long time I turned down auditions for comedy series because I was told that I'm not funny."

In doing research for the part, Brosnahan learned first-hand about the insidious nature of “social constraints” placed on women of Midge’s era.

Like many modern actresses who have been handed complex and

“I went on eBay and I bought a lot of vintage magazines from that period,” she notes. “It was so strange and offensive to read all the articles about how to be a good housewife and how to please your husband, or how to find a husband.

“Women were being given advice on how to smell nice, how to make themselves more attractive

to men, not to express your opinions too strongly, and not to appear to be too intelligent or overshadow your man. There wasn't even any questioning of those kind of restrictions. It was very disturbing to see how women were expected to conform to this extremely repressive set of rules of behaviour that were intended to reinforce their subservient position with respect to men.”

So is Midge an anachronistic representative of the second wave feminist ideals that truly bloomed from the Sixties through to the Eighties?

“She is part of an ongoing process of social change, but when you're living it, you don't necessarily see it from that broader perspective, from the outside,” she says.

“But I hope that as the show evolves, she will develop a greater awareness of her being part of the overall struggle by women to achieve equality.”

As for Brosnahan, her own life is undergoing a kind of upheaval too – alongside her omnipresence come awards season, this year sees her segue into the world of big budget film, with appearances in historical thriller The Courier (alongside Benedict Cumberbatch), and drama I’m Your Woman.

“A friend and I were walking by Times Square and there was this enormous billboard that was the length of a city bus and had my face on it,” she says of her newfound fame. “It was before the first season of Maisel aired. We were in shock.

“My friend wanted me to pose so she could take pictures of me with it in the background, and I was like, no, I look terrible! And she was like, ‘You’ll be so glad you have these in 15 years.’ And I am glad that I have those photos.”

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 35

“protection time”

“getting organised time”

wealth protection

wills

“planning time”

lasting power of attorney

it’s about time you called watermead trust planning all our advice is expertly tailored to your individual circumstances, ensuring you receive the right advice at the right time. call watermead today on 0116 220 2277 or contact us via our website watermeadtrustplanning.co.uk

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With you every step of the way Mediation Service Dispute Resolution Litigation Commercial Property Call now to discuss your matter Conveyancing Sarah Spence Ashwin Topiwala with one of our legal experts.

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0116 262 8596

Boden

LIFE & WORK

Who's the

BOSS? Boss up your working space this season, with our pick of luxe office wares.

A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING

The Belgrave collection from Mulberry offers a variety of styles to suit modern lifestyles. This document holder takes a traditional and timeless shape, designed with either single or double compartments and a light, adjustable webbing strap.

Priced from £875.

WHY WE LIKE MONDAYS…

Boden workwear offers clothing that works as hard as you do. This season we’re teaming The Silk Shirt with denim and flats for an office-apropos but zoom friendly vibe. With over 8 designs to choose from, Mondays will never be the same again.

LET THERE BE LIGHT WEEKDAY HIDEAWAY

Maximising space is key to home working. For a generously proportioned workspace in one sophisticated piece of furniture, look not further than the Brunton Home Office by Dormy House. This hideaway study cupboard is ideal for storing all your office paraphernalia discreetly. Prices from £985.

Feminine, elegant and perfectly practical, this Cox & Cox statement desk lamp is ideal for your home office. Featuring a wide, domed shade and round base in dusky blush pink, with a white inner to enhance the light, and a brushed brass arm and switch.

NOTE TO SELF

Add a touch of luxury with one of the world's largest and oldest manufacturers of pens, pencils, office supplies and luxury leather goods Graf von FaberCastell. We love this Guilloche Yozakura collection inspired by Japanese cherry blossom.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 37

Boden

Chilly Day HOLIDAYS There can’t be many of us who haven’t had our travel plans disrupted this year. But if you’re putting off having a winter break until we have a bit more certainty back in our lives, check out Kirsty France’s tips for a getaway the pandemic (hopefully) can’t spoil.

or quarantining when you get back.

At the very worst, if there’s a local lockdown you can get in the car and head home. It could be the perfect way to discover a hidden gem that becomes a new favourite.

HUNKER DOWN

STAY LOCAL

If you’re worried about sharing space with loads of other people, you’re not alone. I’ve been lucky enough to go away a couple of times this year and most hotels and holiday parks have restrictions in place but they really vary. It’s hard to make a decision when you don’t know how the safety measures will affect your enjoyment of your holiday.

If you don’t fancy staying that local, explore somewhere new in the UK. Pick a place you can drive to then you don’t have to worry about cancelled flights

Thankfully, there’s a simple solution.

Book accommodation that is just for you and the family. That could be a cosy cottage where you can snuggle up by a log fire, or a long weekend in a camper van. (I’m sure there are some hardy souls who’d brave a winter trip in a tent, but I’m not one of them!) Either way you get to enjoy having a break in your own safe space.

Now, you could take this really literally.

You could have a proper staycation by sleeping in your own bed but otherwise acting like a tourist. Visit your local restaurants or get takeout and go to all those attractions on your doorstep that you’ve never got round to seeing.

LOCKDOWN PROOF

Even when you’re at home it can be a challenge finding new and different things to do. A lot of local attractions are reopening but others are closing their doors in the face of reduced visitor numbers and continuing restrictions. If you’re planning a break it’s worth doing your research to find out what’s likely to be open and how safety precautions will affect your visit.

Otherwise, just wrap up warm and make the most of the great outdoors. Get out for a walk in the countryside or head to an isolated beach. With pubs and restaurants staying open (fingers crossed) you could even treat yourself and warm up with a pub lunch.

If you believe in taking a belt and braces approach, there are a couple of extra things you can do.

Take out some insurance so you’re covered even if something does go wrong. Booking a package with a travel agent also gives you ATOL protection so you can get a refund for your whole break even if one bit of it is cancelled. Plus you’ll be supporting an industry that’s really struggling right now.

Whatever you do, I hope you have fun!

GOING, GOING… HERE TO STAY! The Art and Antiques market has continued to perform strongly throughout the last 6 months. In fact, results across all areas of collecting and buying have actually proved stronger post-COVID than seen before the pandemic struck. Our 21st century auction house experience allows for socially-distanced valuation and consignment procedures, controlled viewing times, and secure live internet bidding.

Buy and Sell with confidence at Gildings Auctioneers – your local gateway to the international art and antiques market.

• Fortnightly Antiques & Collectors auctions • Specialist auctions of Fine Art & Antiques, Jewellery, and Toys & Memorabilia • Bespoke Appointments for valuations, viewing, and collections • Professional COVID-secure home valuation visits and transport collection service

Gildings Auctioneers The Mill, Great Bowden Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DE Telephone : 01858 410414 | Email: sales@gildings.co.uk | www.gildings.co.uk

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2020 39

Wingates Gallery Welcoming you to the heart of art

Originals, Limited Editions and Sculptures

As an independent gallery, we pride ourselves on our extensive selection of art including glass and ceramic sculptures with something to suit all tastes and budgets.

Our guarantee of great service makes purchasing art a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Your local bespoke framing specialists

We have a fantastic choice of high quality frames to make the best of your favourite art, sporting memorabilia and photography.

Our friendly team are all highly qualified experts using the latest techniques and provide a wonderful attention to detail making every frame a work of art.

44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU. Tel: 01858 465455

www.wingatesgallery.co.uk