Pink (July 2017)

issUe153∫ JUly2017

SEVEN-YEAR DETOX FROM THE FOOD KIDS CRAVE One girl’s cOntrOl Over her rare digestive cOnditiOn

SEPARATE BEDS KEEP COUPLES TOGETHER?

Are you cool or warm, winter or autumn?

KNOW YOUR COLOURS AND BRING OUT YOUR BEST

FALLING OUT WITH FACEBOOK WHAT’S THERE TO LIKE?

The classic romance relived • Fashion parties par excellence • All decked out in the docks

INSIDE

July 2017

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FEATURES 12 PrivateEye no piece of cake Coping with a kid’s digestive disorder 16 LifeStyle my bed or yours?

Are separate-bedders a good sign?

19 WomensWorld work what you wear An ‘appropriate’ office look

FASHION 26 FashionStory knowing your colours For a brighter face and future 30 ShowStopper into the blue The allure of azure 39 TheUniform I know what you’ll be wearing this summer Off the catwalk at The Pink Fashion Show

HEALTH 51 HealthBites 53 InThePink that falling feeling About pelvic organic prolapse 55 ParentingTips if your child is bullied How upset parents can deal with their own angst

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REGULARS 9 EditorsNote 10 MailShot 22 WomanKind a class act Simone Signoret 40 Pink@TheParty 56 GirlTalk let’s Face it!

Don’t ‘like’ the wrong thing 60 TableTalk a summer soup Almond and roasted garlic gazpacho and more…

63 WomenOnWheels restoring the joys of driving Kia Rio 64 SnapShot at home on stage Becky Camilleri 66 StarGazer the future is pink Horoscopes

COVER Photography Gary Bugeja ∫ Styling Marisa Grima [marisagrima.com] ∫ Hair Dominic Bartolo ∫ Make-up Jennifer Dimech ∫ Location Palumbo Shipyard ∫ Model Giulia @ Supernova MM, wearing jumpsuit, Tommy Hilfiger ∫ bag, Aldo ∫ Ray-Ban sunglasses, Sunglass+Sunglass.

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MODERN LUXURY the evolution of a la prairie signature collection La Prairie’s quest for timeless beauty knows no boundaries. In the 1980’s, the scientists at La Prairie went in pursuit of revolutionary skincare that would represent unparalleled luxury and launch a new era in anti-aging. From this, pure caviar extract was discovered as an anti-aging skin fortifier. In 1987, the Skin Caviar Collection was born and since has earned a reputation for its lifting and firming abilities, luxurious textures and profound results.

The legend continues with upcoming launch (mid-August 2017) of the

SKIN CAVIAR ABSOLUTE FILLER RECAPTURE DENSITY. REFINE CONTOURS. RESTORE HARMONY Designed to target the loss of the very volume and substance that gives skin its youthful appearance, La Prairie’s new Skin Caviar Absolute Filler returns lost density, plumping while helping to reshape and refine the contours of the face. The skin is imbued with the harmony of youth.

MASTERING CAVIAR

Exclusively Distributed by AM Mangion Ltd. Tel: 23976000 www.laprairie.com

La Prairie’s latest caviar technology, used for the first time in Skin Caviar Absolute Filler, features an advanced technological process that captures the most potent nutrients found in caviar. Through pressing and centrifugation, caviar’s lipids and proteins are isolated to better capture their power and are then re-combined. The result of this innovative refining process, combined with La Prairie’s Exclusive Cellular Complex, is Caviar Absolute – a new form of caviar, a new caviar phenomenon.

ABSOLUTE DESIGN The voluptuous moisturising cream has a unique, bouncy texture that is quickly absorbed into skin, imbuing it with the rich caviar nutrients essential to a more youthful appearance. The artfully crafted dispenser, with its graceful curves and integrated mirror, recalls the balanced proportions of a precisely sculpted object of design. Inside, an innovative airless pump releases the perfect dose of cream with a single press of the sleek inverted button.

THE LUXURY OF CHOICE Because La Prairie is committed to offering its clients bespoke skincare solutions targeted to specific needs and expectations, Skin Caviar Absolute Filler is the perfect addition to the Skin Caviar Collection. It helps restore volume and skin fullness, while Skin Caviar Luxe Cream and Luxe Cream Sheer give superior lifting and firming benefits in two unique textures. The Skin Caviar Collection is the essence of the luxury of choice. @laprairie #skincaviar #theartofcaviar

Photography Jonathan Borg

EDITORSNOTE

Most of the time I pop into Facebook these days, I’m horribly put off, a tight knot forms in my stomach and I’m quick to pop out again.

There was a short and almost addictive phase when I kept au courant with the goings-on of our strange world through this social networking website.

Anything that is trending, or worth a read, would be posted and shared and you could keep your finger on the pulse of the outside world – like it, or not – just by relying on others doing the sifting for you.

It seemed to be painting a fast and easy picture of the topics and thoughts of the moment, and my evenings were taken up catching up on things through the Facebook filter.

But the phenomenon has always had an ugly side and it is rearing its head again. There are two extremes: on the one hand, you’re led to falsely think that the rest of the world is on your wavelength, which puts you in an unrealistic comfort zone, but is just a bubble waiting to burst; on the other, you can’t really identify with anything anyone is saying… and that is infinitely worse.

Facebook has given people who never had a voice, or never had the confidence to have one, a false platform that has made them feel almighty and powerful. And we all know – or do we? – the danger of power in the wrong hands.

A few ‘likes’ are all it takes to transport people from being quiet mice,

who measure their every word, know if they are out of their league and hold back their comments when they realise, to self-appointed authorities on subjects they are greener than green in and representatives of the rest of us.

I imagine them translating their so-called following on Facebook to a podium position. Suddenly, they are addressing the masses in their minds and everyone is hanging on to their every word… or so they think. Out spew the words of wisdom from those who, outside their Facebook realm, would still have had the decency to keep silent.

Suddenly, they see themselves as leaders – the chosen ones, on the basis of a list of thumbs-up icons, mostly typed on autopilot – ramming their rubbish down others’ throats without the slightest hint of self-doubt. And there’s no stopping them as they gloat in their false popularity and feel compelled to share their two cents on everything. And believe me, it’s often not worth much more.

The only thing to do in this scenario, I just decided today, is to forget about keeping abreast with what that bubble of Facebook ‘friends’ is thinking, despite the fact that it could be a shortcut to understanding the signs – read stupidity – of the times, and remain comfortably numb and conveniently cut off. It’s a small price to pay to unravel that knot in the gut.

Now, there will be people out there who will wave the freedom of expression flag, and who am I to say that they shouldn’t open their mouths?!

But political correctness – the scourge of our times, also known as cowardice – has never been my forte. So, they can continue expressing their uninformed opinions in the bubble I don’t want to be a part of anymore.

Because, yes, I long for those days when you could choose who to talk to and when, and more importantly, how much to hear, because it just doesn’t feel like we have any control anymore; when you could keep your conversations private.

I long for those days when you could simply avoid those who you felt talked nonsense, or engage in some small talk and run a mile. I long for the days when people were conscious of how much they didn’t know – my mantra throughout my life – and, therefore, could spare themselves the embarrassment and zip it at a dinner party. Yes, I long for the days when you didn’t have a voice if you didn’t deserve one, and when opinions and advice weren’t being churned out by the great unwashed in a washing machine of verbal diarrhoea.

And in case you are once again saying: Who does she think she is, deciding who should and shouldn’t talk? I’m including myself in this category of people who shouldn’t always open their mouths and leave some room for the experts.

So, yes, I’m on shut down.

Because there is one solution to this, unfortunately. It’s an ignorance-is-bliss scenario, where what you can’t see doesn’t kill you – or create that knot. The next time someone asks me if I’ve heard about so-and-so [ from Facebook], I will answer, in all embarrassment: “No!” Over and out…

And onto the contents of the July issue of Pink. If you missed our summer fashion show down at Ray’s Lido in Armier, or if you want to relive it, turn to Pink@TheParty from page 40 for a taste of a night to remember, the outfits that stood out, the guests who stood in them, the models who strutted their stuff, the brands that beached it and all those who supported us in the sunset and that hot seaside vibe.

July 16, 2017 ∫ Pink is a monthly magazine ∫ Issue 153 ∫ Executive editor Fiona Galea Debono ∫ Publisher Allied Newspapers Ltd ∫ Printing Progress Press Ltd ∫ Production Allied Newspapers Ltd ∫ Contributors Dominic Bartolo, Maria Cachia, Jennifer Dimech, Mary Galea Debono, Marisa Grima, Jeffrey Muscat, Caroline Paris, Helen Raine, Jennifer Saliba, Stephanie Satariano, Virginia, Shelley Von Strunckel, Stephanie Xerri Agius ∫ Design Manuel Schembri ∫ Photography Jonathan Borg, Gary Bugeja, Justin Ciappara, Ron Kerr, Patrizia Madiona, Matthew Mirabelli, Kurt Paris, Chris Sant Fournier, Mark Soler, Darrin Zammit Lupi ∫ Advertising sales Veronica Grech Sant [2559 4706; veronica.grechsant@timesofmalta.com].

THIS PUBLICATION IS BEING DISTRIBUTED AS PART OF:

@pinkmagazine

@pinkmagazine_tom

© 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole, or in part, without written permission of the publishers, is prohibited.

Pink July 2017 ∫ 9

MAILSHOT

THE LETTER THAT TICKLED PINK MONEY DOES NOT BUY HAPPINESS Dear Pink, once again, I am putting pen to paper in the hope of ‘tickling’ you. I have in hand the May issue. As usual, I start by leafing through it. As usual too, I found it vibrating with information, where events are concerned, as well as fashion and style for the young and bubbly generation. Although I am well past that time, I still admire a beautiful outfit. However, what I enjoyed reading most was Mary Galea Debono’s chronicle about The Richest Heiress [WomanKind]. Of course, the life story of Edwina Mountbatten was interesting and colourful, and from it all, I learnt a lesson. Riches and money do not automatically produce happiness. Work and concern for others are really the key. So, let us all rise to the occasion and discard that cursed attitude: ‘I cannot. I am busy. I have other things to do.’ That is really selfish. The approach must be: ‘I can and I will!’

ANTOINETTE BARTOLO, FROM PIETÀ

The writer of the letter of the month wins a Giorgio Armani Sky di Gioia eau de parfum, courtesy of Chemimart; a selection of Deborah Milano make-up products from A.M.Mangion Ltd; PLUS two Kinnie chairs from Farsons.

WRITE IN AND WIN We want to hear from you. Send us your feedback on Pink and any stories that may have touched you in some way, and you stand a chance of winning Montblanc’s Lady Emblem L’Eau from Chemimart; a selection of Deborah Milano makeup products from A.M.Mangion Ltd; PLUS a Paco Rabanne Million Monolopy from Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery.

Write to Pink, with your contact details, at Allied Newspapers Ltd, 341, Strickland House, St Paul Street, Valletta VLT 1211, or send an e-mail to pink@timesofmalta.com Correspondence may be edited for length and clarity. If prizes are not claimed within two months, they will no longer be available.

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THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL Dear editor, thanks a million for Pink – one of my favourite magazines on the island. Keep it up! Now that the dust has settled on last month’s general election, it is time for the elected government to start looking towards the future and focusing on the implementation of all that was promised during the campaign. I find it difficult to understand the faith displayed by the vast amount of people who went out to celebrate the party’s victory. In Malta, it seems we will take any opportunity to hit the streets and party. This is what I suspect happened – and always does: general elections are made to seem like sports championships, with all the revelry that usually accompanies the victory of the supported team. I am not against carcading and playing the fool as such. After all, I would be the first to let off a few fireworks from my roof when my tax bills are heavily reduced, children’s examination fees are removed, my salary increased and all of Malta’s roads totally redone and resurfaced. Well done for all the subjects tackled in the magazine, for example, Winner Takes it All [PinkShrink, June 2017]. Thank you so much!

MIRIAM LIA, FROM ZABBAR

HELPING TO RELAX Dear editor and the team, thanks a million for Pink. It’s my favourite magazine and has been since the very first issue. The articles by Dott. Edward Curmi [PinkShrink] have struck me to a great extent. I am glad he wrote about studying for a resit, for example, because both my sister and I were going through this. We found it very stressful as it was summer and other friends were working and enjoying the sea, BBQs, parties etc… while we could not because we had to focus on our studies. I felt that he helped us a lot and that we were not alone. We took it much lighter, but still studied harder. I would like to be like him in the future. Thanks, Dott. Curmi. I love all your articles! It’s the reason I keep all the copies of Pink, but not only.

I love the fashion shoots, the recipes and the letters. I like The Virgina Monologues and StarGazer and all the rest of it. I give you 10/10 always because you help me to relax and keep me informed all the time and for free. Keep it up, Pink. We love you!

C. LIA, FROM XGHAJRA

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PRIVATEEYE

Maya and Gertrude Cachia

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PRIVATEEYE

NO PIECE OF CAKE Maya Cachia spent seven years of her young life keeping away from chocolate, ice cream and other things kids love in order to overcome, via a lengthy detox, a condition that prevented her from eating some of the most common – and craved – foods.

Thanks to her mother Gertrude’s support and determination, she has now started to taste the ‘forbidden fruits’, without being overwhelmed by the fear of any allergic reactions.

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aya Cachia was “totally fine” when she was born 12 years ago.

Little did her mother Gertrude know back then that she would soon be struggling to conquer a condition known as eosinophilic enteropathy for almost all of the next decade of her life…

Quite a mouthful, the condition took a while to be diagnosed and was hard to digest, influencing and defining the eating habits of the whole Cachia family until today. Gertrude did her own research, but was conscious she should not believe everything she read to avoid “going mad”.

In a nutshell, eosinophilic enteropathy is an uncommon inflammatory gastrointestinal disease.

It causes a type of white blood cell, which plays a role in the body’s immune response by releasing toxins, to build up in the gastrointestinal system and blood, causing polyps, tissue breakdown, inflammation and ulcers. The rare digestive condition is characterised by intolerance to foods and symptoms also include heartburn, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and bloating.

It all started with asthma attacks that had Maya ending up in hospital and eventually requiring her own cylinder at home to avoid the frequent visits, Gertrude recalls. The blood tests began at six months, and at two, she started developing patches on her skin and undergoing endoscopies, colonoscopies and biopsies.

By three, Maya had a diagnosis, and more blood tests spelt out a long and “ugly” list of foods she had to stay away from. These included gluten and wheat, all types of milk, egg white, barley, caffeine, pears and pineapples, soya bean… And on it went, reducing the food options that could enter Gertrude’s kitchen to a minimum and meaning she would have to use her imagination.

Following consultations with nutritionists too, Gertrude opted for the detox approach over medication, following a strict diet that would help to control the situation through Maya’s food intake. Her liver wasn’t functioning properly and the plan was to stick to a seven-year detox of the foods she couldn’t eat. She had to get clean!

This also meant Gertrude would spend the next seven years trying to

Pink July 2017 ∫ 13

PRIVATEEYE

minimise her daughter’s suffering, caused by having to abstain from what every kid craves. But she believed that, in the long run, it would work.

“They were small sacrifices that are big for a child, who can start to feel deprived,” Gertrude says. And she immediately embarked on the unenviable task of trying to keep Maya on track, rallying the support of the rest of the family, while not depriving them of the food they loved and could eat.

Of course, it was not a piece of cake and required a good dose of willpower on the part of everyone – not just Maya and her mother. “Back in the day, Maya missed chips and pizza most and would get angry, cry and go upstairs,” she recalls.

“Soya bean, for example, is everywhere,” she exclaims. Moreover, Maya could only have rice milk, which is “really bad and separates”.

She was denied lots of simple pleasures, including ice cream, and while her sister could eat Nutella, it was taboo for Maya. If she did, she would develop a patch on her skin within 10 minutes, so her diet had to be strictly adhered to.

“The situation was so grave that, one time, my four children were running around the coffee table and spilt a glass of Coke, which fell on Maya’s head. She ended up with patches on her scalp and forehead in

“I WOULD TAKE A MAGNIFYING GLASS WITH ME TO BE ABLE TO DECIPHER ALL THE INGREDIENTS IN THE SMALL PRINT. I WAS TRAINED TO CHECK EVERYTHING IN NO TIME” no time,” says her mother, who fought the condition tooth and nail. “She was sad and I would feel for her…”

But apart from the emotional side of things, there was the financial headache too. Many items on Maya’s shopping list were the most expensive. Gertrude would spend lots of money on a variety of foods to try and make her meals more exciting, but most of the time, they were unpalatable and would still not go down well.

“You could say I forgot about supermarkets, and we only went to 14 ∫ Pink July 2017

health shops. I used to go around, searching for them, and I got to know them all. I still remember the price of three slices of bread for Maya, vacuum-packed like toast. They cost €3.60!”

The problem is that eosinophilic enteropathy is a rare condition, so government support is lacking. And while health shops offer the advice of nutritionists, for example, a programme could cost some €100, Gertrude points out.

Shopping took on a whole new meaning for the mother on a mission:

“I would take a magnifying glass with me to be able to decipher all the ingredients in the small print.

I was trained to check everything in no time.”

Every scholastic year, Gertrude would have to speak to every teacher about her daughter’s condition to ensure that lunches were not exchanged, and she took her time to prepare stuffed peppers and tasty wraps, filled with whatever Maya could stomach, to compensate for other lacks.

But she also had her brushes with school, for example, when “Maya was forbidden to take flavoured water even though it was practically her only source of natural sugars”.

PRIVATEEYE

A condition of the sort goes beyond the mere physical and emotional. It has an impact on lifestyle – that of an entire family in this case. But it is because the whole family embraced it and tackled it together that Maya emerged unscathed.

“IT HAS ALSO CHANGED OUR WAY OF LOOKING AT FOOD. THE IDEA IS TO TRY AND COOK HER WAY FOR US AND NOT OUR WAY FOR HER, EVEN THOUGH SHE IS NOW ABLE TO EAT THE SAME FOOD”

Gertrude admits she found a way around it, pouring it into a normal bottle of water.

Between three and 10, Maya missed countless outings, birthdays and Christmas parties. Parents would give the invitations to Gertrude, who would decide whether she could go.

Nevertheless, it was impossible to hide things from her “because children talk”, so Maya would often eat before a party and, at least, she could play with her friends.

Restaurants were also a no-go.

Then at 10, Maya started a slow introduction of the foods she wasn’t allowed to look at. It was a risk each time… but she started to notice there were no longer any reactions.

“At the beginning, she was actually afraid to try the foods she had once wanted so much. It wasn’t easy introducing them and she always wanted to be sure I had the medicine in hand because she wanted to feel safe,” says Gertrude.

Maya has undergone a biopsy every two years, but frequent hospital visits have been reduced to once a year since her condition has stabilised.

Nevertheless, she still has her own diet and much of her food habits have been ingrained in her system. Maya loves fish, and to this very day, she chooses a whole one at a restaurant and is able to clean it herself, says her mother.

“All in all, yes, it was stressful, a big headache and also quite expensive, bringing up four young kids when Maya was diagnosed. Of course, I felt sorry for her and I worried. There was a time when I thought it was connected to cancer, or could cause it, especially since the white blood cells dominated the red.”

But the Cachia family found a way around the sacrifices, and most of all, they minimised Maya’s suffering by using her products as much as possible so she would not feel left out.

Despite the many limitations, Maya, who is today super slim and has an athletic body, was never underweight and always full of beans.

She adopted a sporty lifestyle, with gymnastics and athletics keeping her fit.

Looking at the light at the end of the tunnel, Gertrude says Maya plays football, is energetic and retained a healthy and balanced diet, enjoying salads and grilled vegetables.

“It has also changed our way of looking at food. The idea is to try and cook her way for us and not our way for her, even though she is now able to eat the same food.

“The whole experience has influenced her positively and she has grown into a sensible and confident 12-year-old,” Gertrude says. “I helped her lead as normal a life as possible.

I did what I could, I ran around and spent money so my child would be comfortable. And it paid off !”

Pink July 2017 ∫ 15

LIFESTYLE

MY BED

OR YOURS? A few of HELEN RAINE’s 40-something friends have been talking about wanting separate beds, or bedrooms, from long-term partners... And the men seem pretty resistant. It has aroused her interest in exploring whether ‘separate-bedders’ is a recognised developmental stage in relationships, why it happens and whether it’s a bad sign.

S

haring a bed with your partner has become the gold standard of modern cohabitation. Mention separate beds, or worse, separate rooms, and everyone assumes that your relationship is on the rocks.

However, there’s an increasing body of evidence to suggest that our mental and physical health as well are our relationships are better when we sleep alone. Try suggesting that to the average bloke though, and you’ll find out just how divisive an issue it can be.

Shuffling off down the hallway, rather than putting up with snoring and duvet hogging is frowned upon in Europe – only 10 per cent of couples in the UK confess to splitting up at night.

That figure looks set to rise soon, with many women admitting to a longing for the comfort of the spare room.

Across the Pond in Canada, a recent study put the number of separatebedders at up to 40 per cent.

SNORE BORE There are good reasons to separate for sleep, especially for women. A 2016 review by Dr Kneginja Richter notes that men move more than women and that males are more often loud snorers, 16 ∫ Pink July 2017

a major source of disturbance.

According to a 2008 study of 1,032 women by Dr Rosalind Cartwright: “Those who slept with a heavy snorer reported symptoms of insomnia, morning headache, daytime sleepiness, and fatigue at a higher rate than did women who slept with non-snorers.”

The quality of men’s sleep seems to suffer too, with research by sleep expert Dr Neil Stanley suggesting both partners are disturbed 50 per cent more often when they sleep together.

Interestingly however, couples often underestimate the impact of sharing a bed on the quality of their sleep. They report “sleeping better” when they are

LIFESTYLE with their partner, even though in Dr Stanley’s study, their brain waves suggested the opposite. Sleepers, especially women, were less likely to wake up and had up to half an hour more of deep sleep when they were on their own.

SLEEPER AS PREY There’s a cultural and psychological aspect to that. Paul Rosenblatt, author of Two in a Bed, explains that bed sharing makes us feel safer and reduces the chance of medical emergencies going unnoticed.

During our evolutionary history, we were safer from predators and attacks by other humans when sleeping with a partner, or as a family. We might, therefore, suppress feelings of disturbance.

Rosenblatt also had couples tell him that bedtime was virtually the only part of the day when they got to spend time alone together, especially if they were parents.

SLEEP TO LIVE However, the health benefits of getting a good night’s sleep cannot be underestimated. Sleep really is critical; in a study of mice, those deprived of sleep [by being placed on a platform above cold water so that they fell in if they fell asleep] developed sores and eventually died – the body simply closes down if the mind cannot rest.

women experience due to their partners’ presence in bed can actually be mitigated by sex.

Physical closeness, cuddling etc… all release the hormone oxytocin, which helps pair bonding, acts as a sedative and reduces stress, paving the way to sleep.

That might explain why so many of us remain reluctant to swap the double for two twins – more zzzzs could equal less action.

However, if you’re desperate to move into the spare room, you can reduce the impact by starting off in bed together for cuddles and more, then ditching your partner for a night of blissfully undisturbed sleep, returning in the morning as if you’d never been away.

Dr Stanley approves of this approach [and indeed practices what he preaches with his wife].

During a conference speech, he said: “Isn’t it much better when someone tiptoes across the corridor for a snuggle because they want to, rather than snoring, farting and kicking all through the night?” Americans certainly think so – a survey of architects and construction companies predicts

“A SURVEY OF ARCHITECTS AND CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES PREDICTS THAT, PRETTY SOON, 50 PER CENT OF ALL NEW HOMES IN THE US WILL HAVE TWO MASTER BEDROOMS” According to Dr Stanley, a lack of sleep is correlated with “a poorer overall health status” and problems such as obesity, diabetes, conflict in relationships, depression and a higher mortality rate. Put like that, quality sleep seems like a cure-all for almost every modern ailment.

LOVE SLEEP There’s just one tiny bed bug in the single-room ointment: sex.

Rosenblatt notes that men who sleep by themselves have less of it than co-sleeping partners.

Interestingly, some researchers have found that the disturbance

that, pretty soon, 50 per cent of all new homes in the US will have two master bedrooms.

CELEBRITY SLEEPERS Still, a glance through the celebrity gossip pages offers a cautionary tale; several gleeful separatesleepers have since gone the whole hog and divorced, including Brangelina, TomKat and Tim Burton/Helena Bonham Carter. In addition, Donald and Melania Trump allegedly sleep apart, and no one wants to follow their example.

Perhaps earplugs and your own duvet might do the trick instead?

Pink July 2017 ∫ 17

WOMENSWORLD

B

usiness dress for men couldn’t be easier – iron a shirt, throw on black trousers with a leather belt and, depending on what profession you’re in, add a suit jacket, or a tie.

For us women, choosing what to wear for the office can be more of a trauma – pantsuits and power dressing are too 1980s, but we haven’t really found a millennial equivalent of the male professional uniform.

Yet there’s increasing evidence to suggest women’s career prospects can be harmed by what they put on in the morning.

Sexy and You’ll Blow It

Work WHAT YOU Wear There’s increasing evidence to suggest women’s career prospects can be ‘harmed’ by what they put on in the morning. You may like to think – and so you should – that as long as you do your job well, it shouldn’t matter whether you’re flashing the flesh. But HELEN RAINE finds that, unfortunately, research suggests the opposite – clients, bosses and co-workers notice whether your office look is ‘appropriate’ even if it’s on a subconscious level.

Studies have shown that women who dress too ‘sexy’ at work may be viewed as less competent, Diane Gottsman, a US-based etiquette expert, says. She points to a study by Melissa Wookey in The Journal of Social Psychology.

Wookey showed separate groups of participants a photograph: one group was shown a professionally dressed woman, wearing a business jacket and trousers; the other got a photo that emphasised sex appeal, showing the same woman wearing a low-buttoned blouse and no jacket. When told that both were CEOs, the participants rated the sexually dressed women lower for competence.

“When a woman is in a position of power, sexiness may be viewed as dysfunctional and inappropriate,” Wookey writes.

Making a Boob “In a corporate world, you want to stand out for your job success and not your triple Ds… When you are exposed, it sends a message,” Gottsman told The Huffington Post.

Prof. Karen Pine, author of Mind What You Wear, agrees, saying: “People… make up their minds about us based on what we are wearing.”

Pink July 2017 ∫ 19

WOMENSWORLD Clothes form part of our societal norms; we have to wear them [ever noticed how running around naked will get you arrested?] so we might as well get them right. Picking what to wear for work isn’t a frivolous afterthought – it’s a major part of managing the ‘brand of you’.

You might like to think that as long as you do your job well, it shouldn’t matter whether you’re flashing the flesh, but unfortunately, research suggests the opposite – clients, bosses and co-workers notice whether your office look is appropriate even if it’s on a subconscious level.

On a night out, it’s fine to go as low as you dare when it comes to your chest. In the office though, Gottsman says cleavage should be covered by a good 5cm of cloth. Similarly, super short skirts are out.

Her message is simple: the more skin your show, the less power you have and the more likely you are to be passed over for promotion.

Dressing for Promotion Clothes don’t just influence how other people see you – they affect how you see yourself. Research by Abraham Rutchick of California State University shows that business dress makes the wearers think in a more abstract way, “identifying actions at a higher level” – in other words, they acted like leaders, looking at the bigger picture, not the morass of detail. The clothes “self-reinforce, they reverberate”, says Rutchick.

“PICKING WHAT TO WEAR FOR WORK ISN’T A FRIVOLOUS AFTERTHOUGHT – IT’S A MAJOR PART OF MANAGING THE ‘BRAND OF YOU’” “Get your clothing right and everything else will fall into place. Your clothing has powerful feedback effects; it sends internal messages which can dampen or boost your mood and can even alter your thought processes and capabilities… Clothing offers you permission to behave differently,” according to Pine.

Not only will you appear more competent in the right clothes, but you might also actually become so. And evidence suggests that the trick is to dress just a little bit better than your office peers.

Fashion Forward

What Not to Wear Other no-nos include visible panty and bra lines, sheer clothing and scuffed shoes, or messy bags, the theory being that managers will subconsciously decide that if you can’t deal with polishing your shoes and cleaning out your handbag, you won’t nail down important work details. You don’t need to be Marie Kondo, but you do need to focus on dressing the part.

And this is perhaps even more important for classically beautiful women than for the rest of us mere mortals. The New York Times noted that it’s actually “a disadvantage for a woman to be physically attractive when applying for a managerial job. Beautiful applicants received lower ratings, apparently because they were subconsciously pegged as stereotypically female and therefore unsuited for a job as a boss”. Clothes can help to counteract those sexist judgements.

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Even though the likes of Google and Facebook encourage informal clothing in their offices and are part of a movement towards de-formalising business dress, researcher Michael Slepain told The Atlantic that he doesn’t expect formal office wear to lose its symbolism any time soon.

“You could even predict the effect would get stronger if formal clothing is only reserved for the most formal of situations. It takes a long time for symbols and our agreed interpretations of those symbols to change,” he says.

If fashion isn’t your forte, experts recommend sticking with the basics; choose items like black dresses, ballet pumps and neat, well-tailored suit jackets that work not just for your job, but also your physique and your age – you need to wear the clothes, not the other way around.

Hannah Baker of The Muse says: “Having a closet full of statement pieces often leaves you puzzled, unsure how to put together an outfit in the morning.” Instead, she recommends plain pencil skirts with patterned blouses and a jacket; smart trousers with a silk blouse; and three dresses – a sheath, a fit-and-flare, and a shirt dress.

If you’re not sure whether you’re nailing ‘professional’ rather than ‘sexy’, take a picture of yourself in work wear outfits and ask people you trust for their opinion – your next promotion could be riding on it, sad as that may be!

WOMANKIND expression in her eyes; and of capturing an erotic moment by a simple gesture.

On this occasion, however, the emotion was too strong and her body language said it all. “I wanted to be dignified… but I can’t,” she confessed.

This time she was not acting. The next sentence in her speech was even more revealing. “You can’t imagine what it means for me, being French.”

What she meant was that to be the first French actress to receive this coveted award was, indeed, a great achievement. The other four nominees were Doris Day, Catherine Hepburn, Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor – all American; all giants of the big screen. Measured

A class act Simone Signoret became the stuff of dreams: men adored her because she was alluring; women because they wanted to be her.

Her life spanned the middle decades of the 20th century, and MARY GALEA DEBONO says that to read her life story is to read a chronicle of those years, with all their complexities.

A

s she walked up to the podium and towards Rock Hudson to receive the Oscar for Best Actress for her performance in the film Room at the Top, Simone Signoret seemed at a loss as to what to do with her arms. She repeatedly adjusted the shoulder straps of her evening dress, lifted one hand to cover her mouth as if she had been caught by surprise and pushed back imaginary wisps of hair. Then clutching the little statue and holding it tight against her chest, she took a 22 ∫ Pink July 2017

few deep breaths and, biting her lower lip, perhaps to keep away the tears, she prepared to make her short acceptance speech.

Simone Signoret in Macadam in 1946.

against such formidable competitors, her success was extraordinary.

Simone was undoubtedly a great actress; provocative, intense and passionate; mysterious and intriguing. Acting had always been what she wanted to do and she took it very seriously. Her secret was to identify completely with the person she was portraying; to absorb her personality; to forget herself and

“HER SECRET WAS TO IDENTIFY COMPLETELY WITH THE PERSON SHE WAS PORTRAYING; TO ABSORB HER PERSONALITY; TO FORGET HERSELF AND BECOME THE NEW PERSON. SHE WAS NEVER AFTER GLAMOUR AND SHE NEVER SOUGHT TO BE A SEX SYMBOL”

This was that same actress renowned for being capable of portraying love in a masterly way without resorting to theatricality; of transmitting passion just by the

become the new person. She was never after glamour and she never sought to be a sex symbol. This is one of the reasons why women felt they could identify with her. She became

WOMANKIND the stuff of dreams; men adored her The Café de Flore, together with Les her daughter and her husband’s son. She because she was alluring; women Deux Magots, were the Mecca of the was expecting her husband’s return, but because they wanted to be her. intellectual and artistic crowd in Paris. on that beautiful sunny morning, it was Yet, when the panel of judges chose They were frequented by people like Jeananother man who suddenly appeared on her for the award, it was not only her Paul Sartre, Pablo Picasso and Alberto the terrace of the hotel and entered her acting skills, outstanding though they Giacometti – people who were to shape life. That man was Yves Montand, the were, that they were looking at. As with the thought and artistic trends of future son of Italian immigrants from the all prestigious awards, an Oscar can also decades. Simone loved this ambience; for slums of Marseilles, who had become be used to make a political statement. her, it was not just an encounter with the the most popular singer of the moment.

This was 1960; the McCarthy years, famous; it gave her the chance to listen It was love at first sight – even the when anyone tainted with the slightest and learn. “My friendships dating from harshest cynics found it difficult not to whiff of communism was suspect, were that time were indestructible,” she stated concede that this was the typical coup over, and Simone was considered a in her memoirs. de foudre; the classic romance. “It was a communist. The message was, wonderful day and I’ll never get therefore, clear: the judges tired of going over the details wanted to show that they with a magnifying glass – her refused to be prejudiced against blonde hair, the burning sun an actress simply because she and the exact moment when was left-leaning in politics.

Simone watched me coming It was their way of signalling towards her…” is how he recalled that America had turned over the moment. a new leaf.

From that moment, the two Simone was born in 1921 in were inseparable. “Without Wiesbaden in the Rhineland, Montand, you couldn’t have which, in the years following made me go from the Porte de World War I, was occupied Vincennes to the Porte territory. Her father, André d’Asnières,” she confessed. The Kaminker, was an army officer of Signoret-Montand legend was Jewish descent. Her mother was born and it was a legend Georgette Signoret and it was destined to last for quite some Simone Signoret and Yves Montand. her surname that she later time. Nothing pleases the public adopted to escape detection of as much as what it perceives as a her roots during World War II. great romance and theirs was a “IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT – EVEN THE When her father left the army, romance lived in public. They HARSHEST CYNICS FOUND IT DIFFICULT NOT TO CONCEDE THAT THIS WAS THE TYPICAL COUP the family settled in Neuilly, a stood for everything that the DE FOUDRE; THE CLASSIC ROMANCE” middle-class district of Paris. public yearns for: love, youth, The relationship between the beauty and fame.

Kaminker couple had always been an Among the habitués of the Café de In December 1957, they were uneasy one, and when World War II broke Flore there were also those who married at Saint Paul de Vence in the out, André, more often than not an belonged to the cinema world – people South of France. Simone gave up the absentee father, knowing full well what like the Prévert brothers. During the cinema for a while, but returned to it his Jewish origins could do to his life, Occupation, French cinema had for a soon afterwards when she discovered joined Charles de Gaulle’s men in London. while been in decline, and although it that the role of housewife and a A big share of the burden of caring for the soon revived, it was difficult for a new performer’s wife were not enough to family fell on Simone, the eldest of their actress to make a breakthrough. convince her of the pleasures of an three children. Through Jean Luchaire, However, and thanks partly to these early retirement. the father of one of her school friends – friends, it was not long before Simone’s She was no pushover. In public life, later executed as a collaborator – she got name started appearing in the credits. she was well known for being a secretarial job at Nouveaux Temps, a Her parts were one-liners and it was argumentative and unforgiving when daily evening newspaper. only at the end of the war that she got insulted. In her relationship with Yves, Life is almost always an alternation her first speaking role in the film Les she gave the impression that she was of harsh adversities and opportunities, Demons de L’Aube. It was given to her by the submissive partner, but in fact, she which, if recognised and seized, can Yves Allégret, the director of the film, was probably the one who dominated change one’s life. For Simone, one such who was also her lover and father of her the partnership. crucial opportunity presented itself only daughter Catherine. In 1948, they Politically, both were on the Left and when she met Claude Jaeger, a member got married. one cannot overlook or underestimate of the French Resistance, who one day One day in August 1949, Simone the extent to which this communion took her with him to the Café de Flore was staying at the Colombe d’Or, her of minds played on the magnetic and introduced her to his friends. favourite hotel in the Côte d’Azur, with attraction towards each other.

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WOMANKIND Catherine David, in her biography of the actress, sums up their political leanings in a few words: “For Simone Signoret the ground had already been prepared by her mother’s political convictions. But her real meeting with the Left dates back to the Flore days. It was a heterogeneous intellectual Left…

But for Yves Montand, the Left was the family, his real one, his anti-fascist father, his trade-unionist brother…”

The famous couple was labelled communist and often criticised for being that. Together they toured Eastern European countries, where they were met by dignitaries, bearing huge bouquets of carnations. Yves sang his political protest songs and they both signed the Stockholm petition against the nuclear bomb, which prompted the Americans to withdraw their visas and for Warner Bros. to lose interest in Simone.

Soon, however, the sad truths about the ‘socialist paradises’ started to emerge, and with the revelation of the Stalinist atrocities and the invasion of Hungary, their political blinkers were slowly removed and the delusion of how they had been politically manipulated set in.

“OLD AGE SET IN VERY EARLY FOR SIMONE. SHE PUT ON WEIGHT, HER FACE PUFFED UP AND SHE STARTED DRINKING HEAVILY. WHEN SHE DISCOVERED THAT YVES HAD HAD A BRIEF AFFAIR WITH MARILYN MONROE, SHE FELT HUMILIATED” Simone Signoret, Marilyn Monroe and Yves Montand in 1960.

Simone acknowledged her mistakes, but remained politically committed, perhaps even more so. Like many people for whom ideologies fail and who are too proud to admit it, she embraced personal and human rights causes, which she was often accused of doing to promote herself.

Old age set in very early for Simone.

She put on weight, her face puffed up and

she started drinking heavily. When she discovered that Yves had had a brief affair with Marilyn Monroe, she felt humiliated. However, she continued to act, accepting parts that suited her new appearance. She also started to write, applying the same professionalism she had done to acting. Her first book of memoirs, Nostalgia isn’t What it Used to Be, was an immediate success and sold hundreds of thousands.

Her eyesight soon began to fail her, until she was almost totally blind.

In 1980, she was admitted to hospital and diagnosed with cancer. She died in September 1985 and was buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery. Yves died six years later and was buried with her – a modern version of Héloise and Abelard.

Simone’s life spanned the middle decades of the 20th century. To read her life story is to read a chronicle of those years with all their complexities. When in 1987 Paris Match carried out an opinion poll to find out who the most outstanding French personalities of the century were, she was one in a list of 12, which included, among others, de Gaulle.

FASHIONSTORY

KNOWING YOUR

COLOURS

Are you ‘cool’ or ‘warm’ when it comes to colour? And what season are you?

Colour analyst and personal stylist Ella Strickland can answer these questions, looking at the effect of different colours on your face to bring out your utmost best.

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on’t you think most people know, by a certain point in their lives, what colours suit them and which don’t? Do they really need guidance on this? And if so, how and why do you think they would get it so wrong?

own colours done – duly worn brown mascara. Today, as a winter – and I’ll explain more about what that means shortly – I only ever wear black eyeliner and mascara. The result is that my eyes have become a whole lot more interesting!

Knowing what colours suit us is often a matter of instinct, but like so many things in our lives, our natural instinct has become tempered by what may be termed ‘learned behaviour’.

We listen to the advice of others, from our hairdresser, who puts warm lights in our hair, to our mums, sisters, aunts and friends, who tell us what lipstick suits us etc... Of course, fashion also dictates certain looks at certain times.

The idea of discovering what colours are best for us offers us the confidence and ease to wear them in combinations that always work. It is a means of conveying – without words – who we are to the outside world. Sometimes, people forget to think about the way they present themselves, they shy away from trying something new, or simply stick to what they know without giving it any thought.

I have a simple example from my own life. Years ago, my mother told me that given my brown hair, I should wear brown mascara. I never questioned this and had – until having my

What are the most frequent and worst ‘mistakes’ you have seen people make when it comes to choosing the right colours? What makes you cringe?

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It’s probably best to answer that by starting with something we learnt in art class at school: the three primary colours are red, blue and yellow. All colours are made up of different combinations of these. Advertisers, film-makers and many in the art world work hard to understand the science of colour and to use it to great effect. In short, they use colour as part of their communication with the audience.

Of the three primary colours, true red sits at the centre of the colour spectrum. It is a colour that can be worn by everyone. Think of Father Christmas, Coca-Cola and Virgin Atlantic’s uniforms.

All the other colours under the sun either have more blue in them and are thus ‘cool’ colours, or more yellow in them and are thus ‘warm’. Based on work done in the 1920s by Johannes

FASHIONSTORY Itten, a member of the Bauhaus movement that sought to rethink design from the bottom up, we now know that colours ‘sit right’ when they are grouped within the same family, or palette.

An eyesore might thus be a warm orange from the autumn palette combined with bright white from the winter palette. Low-cost airline easyJet has used this combination to great effect, choosing a logo with colours that jar to remind people that their flights are available at low prices. That same warm orange combined with a deep forest green would look fabulous.

People’s – and especially women’s – preponderance towards black can also be disappointing. While black is often very chic when worn on the right skin tone, it can drain the colour from others. Why hide behind black when you can shine in one of your right colours?

What is the actual effect of wearing the wrong colour? And how does your appearance improve when you opt for the right one?

Wearing the wrong colour can make us look older, tired, or desperately in need of a holiday.

Conversely, wearing the right one allows us to look fresh, radiant, well-rested and at ease.

On any given morning, we all pretty much always have to get dressed. As we do so, we face a choice of putting on anything that sits within our wardrobe. We all know that what we wear speaks volumes about us before we get a chance to say anything. So, particularly on those important days, we want to know we are looking our best. Looking good helps us to feel good and to, therefore, go about our daily business feeling confident.

Most women will agree with the statistic that women wear 15 per cent of their wardrobe 85 per cent of the time. When we spend as much as we do investing in our appearance, we want to be sure that not only are we getting it right and looking our best, but that we are making full use of the clothes we own.

Wearing the right colour is tantamount to looking great no matter how little sleep we got the night before! The right colour lights up our face well before we apply any make-up and style our hair.

We’re talking not just colours for clothing here, but also make-up, hair and eyewear, for example. Is it a case of one colour suiting all of these? And if you had to opt for the right hue in only one of the above, which is the most important?

Colours come in ‘families’ as Itten’s studies showed. Each of these families, he called after the four seasons of the year. We can easily identify which autumn’s colours are: browns, rusts, greens and golds; or the winter colours of white, grey, deep reds and pine greens. So once the analysis of your colours is done and you are classified into one of the four seasons with a range of 36 colours that work seamlessly with each other, it stands to reason that all the colours you add into your look should fall into the same season.

Anything that sits next to the face is important, so clearly, if you are wearing the blue-based colours of summer or winter, you would want a deep red or pink lipstick and not a geranium or orangey one. Likewise, you would want warm tones in your hair if you fell into the warmer seasons of spring and autumn.

The same is also true of your eyewear. In fact, there are so many options out there today that there is no reason not to find exactly what you like in the right hue.

Has your training allowed you to notice immediately why a colour isn’t quite right when you set eyes on someone, or is it a more complex procedure?

Itten’s studies primarily looked at the work of artists who painted using a range of colours from a single palette. David Hockney’s bright and bold spring colours can be compared to the soft, muted colours of summer used by Monet. Picasso opted for bright, bold, winter colours, while Constable used the blended colours of autumn for his landscapes.

So, while we can certainly see which colours work together, it is important not to rely on guesswork when analysing which colours suit someone. As trained House of Colour experts, we “do not decide, we discover”. Working with precision-dyed drapes in 144 colours, we closely observe the effect of different colours on our clients’ skin. When the colour is right, the skin looks fresh and unlined, defined and healthy.

“While black is often very chic when worn on the right skin tone, it can drain the colour from others. Why hide behind black when you can shine in one of your right colours?”

As a rule of thumb, in a nutshell, what should we look out for in terms of choosing the right colours? Is it all about the skin tone, or does it go deeper?

As I mentioned, we are looking at the effect of colours on the face. We look for evidence of whether the skin is blue-based or yellow-based by seeking out the pigment in the fat cells that lie underneath the surface of the skin. By using the drapes that have been precision dyed to capture these nuances in skin tone, we can establish whether a person is ‘cool’ or ‘warm’. We look at the effect of the different colours on the person’s face.

Determining someone’s season can be relatively straightforward, but for others, it can be trickier to analyse. However, a good analyst will soon realise this and explain the situation to the client. It is then a question of using the drapes in specific combinations to explore which range of colours light up the face and bring definition to its features. Within a relatively short while the result becomes clear.

It is important to note that colour analysis is carried out strictly in natural daylight, regardless of how bright or dark a day is. The reason is to ensure that there is no undue influence created by artificial lighting, which itself often has cooler or warmer tones in it.

Pink July 2017 ∫ 27

FASHIONSTORY A colour analysis and styling session with you lasts over two hours and can even be done in twos – with a friend, or a partner. Talk us through it and tell us about the overall experience.

The session starts with an explanation of the science behind colour. We talk about the metals that can be used in accessories given that different colour palettes work best with different metals. This is important information for both men and women as it covers belts, eyewear, jewellery, buckles etc…

The actual analysis takes place next, and there, we work out whether the client’s skin tone is blue or yellow based and if they look best in bright, bold colours, or softer, muted ones.

Once the season is determined in this way, different colour combinations are explored and some easy guidelines for bringing these colours into their wardrobes are explained. Each of the 36 colours within a season – and all the colours in between that tone with these colours – can be worn with confidence given that colours from the same palette work well together.

Tips on a quick 90-second make-up routine, adapted to our busy lives, then follow, thereby introducing clients to the make-up of their season.

The final part is the ‘ratings’; a process by which we determine their star colours within their season, how close to the face they should be worn and in what quantity. So, for example, as a burnished winter – that is, at the warm end of the winter spectrum – I wear the warmer tones of winter closest to my face, including burgundy, charcoal grey and indigo, and reserve the iced blues, greens and yellow of the season to wear in smaller quantities, for example, as part of a pattern, in the piping on my jackets, or for play.

The idea of doing this in twos, or more, is that not only is having your colours analysed great fun, but it is also great to have someone you know, like and trust to be objective on your behalf. Sometimes, we have seen ourselves in a certain way for so long that we cannot see ourselves otherwise.

I have had clients in all kinds of combinations: a husband and wife who wanted to do this together; mothers and daughters; friends and colleagues. One recent experience, which proved to be great fun, was a mum who treated her triplets to this experience as they turned 16.

The thing is that your season never changes, so once you have your colours analysed, they are yours to play with from then on. The only things that can change over time are your best colours, so we encourage people to come in for a re-rating every five to seven years.

How willing do you think people are to ‘have their colours done’, or is there need for some convincing?

I find people get so excited about this that there is little need to convince anyone. I only have to start talking about what is involved and people are keen to know more.

When I did my own colours 10 years ago, I knew that this was going to be a key to unlocking many things about myself. I had recently become a mum, so my clothes shopping needed to be more efficient. I wanted to be my best self at work and at play, so I wanted to know how to take charge of the way I looked.

Knowing what suited me also gave me confidence as I got promoted to higher levels of responsibility at work. Later, as a negotiator working all over the world, packing became easy as 28 ∫ Pink July 2017

everything in my wardrobe worked together. I was also then free to focus on the substance of the negotiation at hand without having image angst. It was absolutely liberating. And it allowed me to buy fewer, better clothes – to really invest in my clothes – knowing I would get great value from using them in different combinations and in multiple ways.

I have found that knowing both our own colours and our style – the sequel to the colour awareness that looks at dressing for our body shape and personality – is a great way to discover, and ultimately celebrate, our own unique selves.

What happens when your favourite colour is not the one that suits you?

That’s simple. Use your favourite colour in places other than close to your face. Orange is my favourite colour, but it is nowhere to be found in the winter spectrum, so I don’t wear it. Instead, I have a foldable shopping bag in orange, I often buy orange flowers for my home and I have an orange mug on my desk at work.

In the end, clients are given a colour wallet containing swatches of all their best colours, which is useful to refer to when they hit the shops. Do you think that people actually refrain from buying an item they love because it is not the right colour?

The beautiful leather wallet containing swatches of the clients’ season is something they take away with them from the class.

The idea is to enable them to have an easy reference to their season’s colours when out shopping. It is, however, not solely

FASHIONSTORY

“Orange is my favourite colour, but it is nowhere to be found in the winter spectrum, so I don't wear it. Instead, I have a foldable shopping bag in orange, I often buy orange flowers for my home and I have an orange mug on my desk at work”

those 36 colours that they can use, but every colour in between that tones with the season’s colours. There are, after all – as a recent study has shown – millions of colours in the world.

I still carry my wallet with me everywhere I go as, when in doubt, it is great to whip out and hold up against my prospective purchase. Refraining from buying an item you love is never a good idea. As acclaimed Japanese lifestyle consultant Marie Kondo says: “Surround yourself with beautiful objects, always asking yourself does this item spark joy?” If it does, then go for it.

On a personal note, what made you, at this stage in your career, follow a course in colour analysis and personal styling in the UK?

In recent years, I have increasingly turned my attention to what allows people to operate at their best. I found this indispensable in my role as a manager of a multicultural team of people working under pressure.

To better my understanding of what motivates people, I have recently also become a certified coach, working with people from all walks of life to perform better, to tap into their own unlimited resources and to be the driving force in their own lives.

Working with some clients, I found that the transformation brought about by coaching ‘on the inside’ was not necessarily reflected ‘on the outside’, which led me to seek to reproduce the guidance I had received so many years ago. As a coach, colour analyst and stylist, I now get to offer colleagues, clients and friends my expertise, which goes some way to facilitating their own journey towards living the lives they choose.

How has the training changed the way you yourself look?

My own journey – which included having my colour analysed years ago – was quite intense. For a start, I stopped wearing orange polo necks! I am, however, still on the journey of discovering who I am and where I have a useful contribution to make. Clearly, this is also changing over time, so my training has been a part of that.

My playful side enjoys honing my ability to dream up new colour combinations and to do so wearing clothes that suit my body shape and reflect who I am on the inside. Colour analysis is only one part of the story. It is important to complement that knowledge with knowing how to dress for your own, unique body shape and as a means to reflect your personality.

I can honestly say that now, after a number of years of practice and the boost that my own personal style has been given through training, I feel ever more confident about how I wear what I wear. I’ve seen others experience this too and it is truly life-changing. I am also reminded of something I learnt at an early age, which is that to break the rules, you must first know them!

And what’s your top universal tip?

My top tip would be to be yourself. Ensuring that our ‘outsides’, as reflected in how we present ourselves, and our ‘insides’, as reflected through our hopes, choices and approach to life, work in harmony will give us the best chance of taking centre stage in our lives.

Pink July 2017 ∫ 29

SHOWSTOPPER Dress; shoes, both Karen Millen.

INTO THE BLUE

DRESSED UP… DOWN IN THE DOCKS

Photography Gary Bugeja ∫ Styling Marisa Grima [marisagrima.com] ∫ Hair Dominic Bartolo ∫ Make-up Jennifer Dimech ∫ Model Giulia @ Supernova MM ∫ Location Palumbo Shipyard *Most items are on sale

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SHOWSTOPPER

Coat; neck scarf; flares, all Stefania’s.

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SHOWSTOPPER

Top; trousers; watch, all Riaz ∫ scarf, Orsay ∫ Emporio Armani sunglasses, Sunglass+Sunglass.

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SHOWSTOPPER

Top; jeans, both Orsay ∫ shoes, Aldo.

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SHOWSTOPPER

Jacket; trousers, both Marks & Spencer ∫ bag, Aldo.

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SHOWSTOPPER

Dress, Marks & Spencer ∫ shoes, Aldo.

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SHOWSTOPPER

Jacket; trousers, both Orsay ∫ vest, M&Co.

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SHOWSTOPPER

Jacket; vest, both M&Co. ∫ skirt, Stefania’s ∫ belt, stylist’s own ∫ Versace sunglasses, Vision Opticians.

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THEUNIFORM

I KNOW WHAT YOU’LL BE WEARING THIS SUMMER

Diane Stafrace

Dyna Spiteri

Matthew James Smith

Fashion blogger and stylist CAROLINE PARIS once again turns her scrutinising gaze off this season’s catwalk at The Pink Fashion Show to spot the trends down at the beach.

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ne would think that life on an island would revolve around the sea in summer, both for swimming and partying. However, I think I have only had around three events throughout my 30 years of existence that required me to get all dressed up and go to the beach.

Since the eighth edition of The Pink Fashion Show was held at Ray’s Lido in Armier, many guests took varied approaches as to what to wear.

Spiteri’s coordinate combo piece – while the red and white colour palette proved to be a standout choice.

The sheer white dress of this magazine’s editor, with exposed shoulders, was a perfect dream of an outfit.

You need both guts and a perfect figure to pull it off as well as she did. The boho-chic black outfit

Alina Anisimova

Jade Zammit Stevens Taryn Mamo Cefai The editor

“THE BOHO-CHIC BLACK OUTFIT WAS ANOTHER FAVOURITE, A GREAT EXAMPLE THAT PROVES YOU CAN MAKE A STATEMENT WITHOUT TOO MUCH FUSS”

Photography Kurt Paris

Ciappar a

was another favourite, a great example that proves you can make a statement without too much fuss, and Matthew James Smith’s outfit was a showcase of easy and comfortable male styling.

The shoe choices were based on comfort, with most guests opting for flats, and a few wedges making an appearance on those who couldn’t part with the extra height, while make-up for the most part was kept quite minimal, which, considering it was quite a hot day, was a great idea.

Photogr aphy Ju stin

The ‘wear comfortable shoes’ mandate was on the invite, so that solved the heels or no heels debate instantly, but then there were guests who took on quite a casual, laidback approach, others who went for something pretty, and many in-betweens.

There was no theme and I didn’t think about it, but I wish I wore white – there aren’t too many summer parties that allow you to get all dolled up in a white dress.

The outfits I picked as my favourites showcase the different styles: there was a fair bit of florals – and I loved Dyna

Stella Cini

Pink July 2017 ∫ 39

PINK@THEPARTY The Pink Fashion Show, a Times of Malta event, was recently held at Ray’s Lido in Armier. The eighth edition of the sought-after catwalk saw the participation of Calzedonia, O’Hea Opticians, Joseph Ribkoff, Furla, Ipanema, Stefania’s, Nero Giardini, Optika Opticians, Carla Grima Atelier, Coccinelle, Orsay, Dor Boutique and Rebelli, which showcased the hottest trends for the summer season.

Photography Jonathan Borg, Justin Ciappara, Ron Kerr, Patrizia Madiona, Mark Soler, Darrin Zammit Lupi

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CALZEDONIA & O’HEA OPTICIANS

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FURLA & JOSEPH RIBKOFF

IPANEMA

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STEFANIA’S

OPTIKA OPTICIANS & CARLA GRIMA ATELIER

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COCCINELLE

ORSAY

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DOR BOUTIQUE

REBELLI

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Pink July 2017 ∫ 47

The Pink Fashion Show was supported by Barcode, Beretta, Campari, Chemimart, Diet Kinnie, Inside Out Design Finishes, Interior Outfitters, Magnum, Paco Rabanne, Palatino Camilleri Wines, Pandora, Renault, San Carlo, Ted Baker, Tettiera and Vichy. Models’ hair was by Screen Professional Hair Salons Malta, and make-up by Guerlain.

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Beers, music and live entertainment The Farsons Beer Festival, one of Malta’s hottest summer celebrations, will be held from July 28 to August 6, bringing together the best local music, beer and entertainment at Ta’ Qali National Park.

The festival will feature over 70 local artists, 50 local and international award-winning beers and a revamped food court, offering a diverse choice of foods. Entrance is free. Follow the festival on www.facebook.com/thefarsonsbeerfestival or https://www.instagram.com/farsonsbeerfestival/ www.farsonsbeerfestival.com

Pink July 2017 âˆŤ 49

PINK@THEPARTY Who’s the Boss?

The Boss Store in St Julian’s hosted a summer cocktail party, which was well attended by an eclectic, fashion-forward crowd. Guests were treated to looks from the Boss summer collection, Boss-themed gin cocktails, designed by Tanqueray, and entertainment by DJs Alessia DeMartino and Dom.

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1. Ben Camille, Chrystabelle, Jennifer Dimech; 2. Matthew James Smith, Michelle Farrugia, Bojana Milojevic, Tiziana Gauci; 3. Sean and Amanda Cassar; 4. Steve Camilleri, Grazielle Camilleri; 5. Steve Tabone.

5

HEALTHBITES

Herb Garden

Moles and Melanoma

DANDELION – THE SHY LITTLE FRIEND By medical herbalist Doru Prodan, member of the British Herbal Medicine Association

Dandelion has been with us since time immemorial, although we tend to step on it without much awareness. Little do we know that the whole plant has medicinal properties and this shy little yellow flower can be one of the best remedies we could imagine. The root and the green parts were used as tonics and liver medicines since the time of the ancient Greeks. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, used dandelion to treat various liver disorders such as jaundice, cirrhosis and liver enlargement. Traditional Chinese medicine records dandelion in use for at least 5,000 years for a variety of conditions, including diabetes, cancers, infections, fevers, snakebites and, of course, liver and digestive disorders. Native American Indians used dandelion for treating digestive and kidney disorders and for skin problems such as eczema and hives. Dandelion is compatible with all ages, from young infants to pregnant or breastfeeding women, with no side effects whatsoever. The real art is in the dosage. Too much for too long is never a good thing, but a little dandelion can go a long way.

Many memories have been kept by herbalists of times gone by, who had to deal with health problems in poor rural areas, where families could not afford medicines. Children would fail to thrive. It was enough to show the mothers how to prepare a daily dose of dandelion extract from the plants that were growing right outside their back door. Those children would regain their energy and sparkle in no time, with just a little knowledge placed in their mothers’ hands. Dandelion is the first herb you should think of for little infants with digestive problems, suffering from the agonies of colic, or the terrible disruption of food allergies. Instead of starting to restrict

a whole heap of healthy foods, all the little person needs is some help getting their liver and, therefore, their digestion into gear. Dandelion remains a great ally of embarrassing problems such as acne during teenage years and young adulthood. It may take a few months of treatment to defeat it, but it has been a life-changing curative to a condition that can be devastating to a person at such a vulnerable moment in life. [Combined with burdock root for this purpose, it has great results.]

Dandelion root works wonders for people who have not been eating well, are drinking too much, or are overworked, since the liver takes an enormous amount of stress in these cases. Obviously, the cause itself has to be addressed, but meanwhile, dandelion can help the liver cope better. It also helps in uterine obstructions, chronic diseases of the skin and impairment of the digestive functions. Over 400 years ago, the great herbalist Culpeper wrote: “Dandelion has an opening and cleansing quality and is, therefore, very effective for removing obstructions of the liver, gall bladder and spleen and diseases rising from them. It openeth the passage of urine both in young and old and will cleanse ulcers. It is of wonderful help in cachexia.”

Time has passed, and with little or no effort from our side, this delicate flower is still here for us, growing spontaneously and generously in our gardens and fields, brought by a gust of wind or some remote alchemy of the past. Nevertheless, always seek advice from a professional practitioner before taking any herbal remedies.

By Luca Gauci from the Malta Medical Students’ Association

Moles [naevi] are typically brown or black accumulations of cells on the skin. Instead of spreading throughout the skin, cells start growing in a cluster to form a mole. These cells are called melanocytes, which produce melanin, giving moles their characteristic colour. Moles may darken after prolonged sun exposure, puberty and pregnancy. These common and benign [non-cancerous] growths can appear anywhere, alone or in groups. Most moles form in early childhood and during the first 30 years of a person’s life. It is normal for an adult to have between 10 to 40 moles by adulthood. Some moles can change their morphology as years pass by becoming more raised, changing their colour, or developing hairs. Others can even disappear. There are different types of moles.

Congenital naevi are present from the time of birth and occur in about one in 100 people.

These are more likely to develop into melanoma, a type of skin cancer, than moles that appear after birth. Dysplastic naevi are larger than the average moles and have an irregular shape. They are variable in their colour, with darker centres and lighter edges. These can also be malignant. The vast majority of moles are not dangerous. However, if a mole displays any of the following signs of melanoma, it should be checked by a dermatologist as soon as possible because early diagnosis of melanoma greatly improves survival: Asymmetry – the two halves of the mole are different; Border – edges of the mole are ragged, blurred, or irregular; Colour – the mole does not have the same colour throughout; Diameter – the mole is larger than a pencil eraser; Evolution – Changes in size, shape, or colour over time.

MONTHLY MUSE “Incontinence is more common than we think and is still considered an embarrassing situation to keep to ourselves. Even worse is that most women think this is a normal consequence of giving birth, or ageing! But one major cause of incontinence is pelvic organ prolapse.”

See story on page 53

Pink July 2017 ∫ 51

INTHEPINK

THAT FALLING FEELING

health physiotherapist can teach and guide through examination and prescribing exercises that are right for the individual.

Feeling a sensation of heaviness and of something coming down? JENNIFER SALIBA, a physiotherapist with an interest in women’s health, tells us everything we wanted to know about pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence.

I

f you were to ask any woman if she knows someone who has, or if she herself has, continence issues, you would find that most would answer that they do. Incontinence is more common than we think and is still considered an embarrassing situation to keep to ourselves.

Even worse is that most women think this is a normal consequence of giving birth, or ageing! But one major cause of incontinence is actually pelvic organ prolapse.

WHAT IS A PROLAPSE? The next time you hear someone saying their uterus is going to fall out, you can picture exactly what is meant by the word prolapse.

The pelvic organs include the bladder, uterus and rectum [back passage]. A prolapse is the downward movement of one of these organs into the vagina, causing the ‘heaviness’ and ‘sensation of something coming down’ felt by most women who experience this.

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women feel, or see, a lump bulging in the vagina.

Incontinence of urine, where leakage may happen on coughing, sneezing and lifting, is also a sign.

Some women may find they feel the urge to urinate more frequently. Others are unable to empty their bladder completely. The bladder may empty in a slow or weak stream, or a change in position on the toilet is necessary to start or complete voiding the bladder.

Bowel habits may also change and constipation could occur, as well as faecal and/or flatal incontinence.

Some women experience decreased sensation or pain on intercourse.

Vaginal intercourse may feel impossible because ‘something feels in the way’.

“WOMEN ARE MORE AT RISK OF HAVING A PROLAPSE IF THEIR PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES ARE WEAK” It affects around one in three women who have had children, but it also affects those who haven’t. It also occurs in women who have had a hysterectomy, where the top of the vagina can prolapse.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A PROLAPSE? • Other than the feelings of heaviness, or a full-tampon-like sensation, some

CAN A PROLAPSE BE PREVENTED? Women are more at risk of having a prolapse if their pelvic floor muscles are weak. These are attached to the bony pelvis at its bottom part and help to keep the pelvic organs in place, together with ligaments and a type of tissue called fascia. These muscles can be trained like any other to become stronger. A women’s

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WHO ELSE IS AT RISK OF GETTING A PROLAPSE? • Women who have had a vaginal delivery, especially where an episiotomy was necessary or a vaginal tear occurred.

• Being overweight/obese: there is more weight on the pelvic organs, putting extra strain on the structures supporting them.

• Heavy lifting or repeated bending increases pressure inside the pelvis, pushing organs down.

Having a close relative with a prolapse increases risk.

Age: muscle strength and vaginal supports may weaken.

Menopause: lower levels of oestrogen are thought to affect the symptoms of prolapse.

Constipation: straining to open bowels may increase the chance of a prolapse and may make an existing prolapse worse.

Chronic cough: when there is a persistent cough, such as in asthma, there is repeated strain on the pelvic floor.

SPEAKING UP FOR A SOLUTION Any questions about bladder or bowel problems should not be ignored, and doctors can refer patients to women’s health physiotherapists, who can prescribe tailor-made exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles. They can also give advice to suit individual needs, such as on good bladder and bowel habits and lifestyle changes.

The Women’s & Men’s Health Physiotherapy Unit is located at Mater Dei Hospital.

Pink July 2017 ∫ 53

PARENTINGTIPS

between the children, where they can each share their point of view and aim to move things forward.

Restorative justice is a framework that is useful for such meetings; however, it is advisable that this is done with the help of a professional, such as a child psychologist.

IF YOUR CHILD IS BULLIED…

IF YOUR CHILD IS BULLIED:

It is estimated that 10 to 20 per cent of children are be bullied. This affects their parents, who can be upset about it, want to find the best ways to deal with it and need the tools to take the bull by the horns. Educational and child psychologist Dr STEPHANIE SATARIANO has some guidelines.

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he first question to ask is: what exactly is bullying? And how do you know if your child is a victim? Bullying is not a clear-cut phenomenon; it is yet another grey area. It is important to understand that it is largely based on the perceptions of the victim.

What one person may perceive as bullying may not be what another person does.

What is for sure is that bullying that goes unnoticed and untreated can have significant detrimental effects on the victim; as well as on the bully. The victim is prone to depression, anxiety, isolation, lowered self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and helplessness. On the other end of the spectrum, it can lead to increased anger, frustration and aggression, with the bullied becoming the bullies.

What about the bullies? If your child is being bullied, it is understandable that you may not empathise with the bully.

However, if your child is the bully, it is important to bear in mind that bullies are also at a high risk of depression, isolation, engaging in criminal behaviour, dropping out of school and being abusive towards others.

As parents involved in a bullying incident, or as educators, where bullying is happening in school, it is important to look at the whole picture and support both the bully and the bullied.

WHAT CAN PARENTS DO TO SUPPORT THEIR CHILD IN THESE SITUATIONS?

• Listen to your child: not everyone has the same perception of what constitutes bullying, so although you may not agree with your child’s feelings, it is still important to validate them, accept them and understand them. As the bully, or the bullied, they need to feel that someone understands them and is on their side.

• Take it seriously. Don’t brush it off; if your children are coming to you with this problem, then it clearly means it is important to them and is affecting them.

Although some children do get over it spontaneously, for most, it does not “toughen them up”.

• Follow their lead. Remember it is not you who is being bullied; try not to put your emotions, thoughts and past experiences into the mix. Listen to your children and respond to their feelings.

It’s important to find the balance between making it feel bigger and worse than it is, and brushing it off.

The easiest way to do this is to try to keep your emotions out of it and help your children manage theirs.

“IT’S IMPORTANT TO FIND THE BALANCE BETWEEN MAKING IT FEEL BIGGER AND WORSE THAN IT IS, AND BRUSHING IT OFF. THE EASIEST WAY TO DO THIS IS TO TRY TO KEEP YOUR EMOTIONS OUT OF IT AND HELP YOUR CHILDREN MANAGE THEIRS” • Perspective taking: whether the bully, or the bullied, encourage your child to see things from the other person’s point of view. In the case of the bullies, help them understand why what they are doing may impact the other person and try to get them to walk in their shoes. As regards the bullied, help them understand the other child; why they may be doing what they’re doing.

Sometimes, understanding the reasons behind other’s behaviours helps us realise it’s not about us, and helps us to feel empathy for the other person.

• Restorative discussions: set up a meeting, facilitated by an adult,

• Help them seek support. Help your child identify good friendships that they do have. If they don’t, set up play dates to help them develop such friendships.

Remember, these are just universal recommendations that should be used in first instance; they may or may not apply to your child. If you feel your child is suffering, showing signs of anxiety or depression, it is important to consult a professional, such as a child psychologist, to either directly work with your children or support you in the situation.

Pink July 2017 ∫ 55

GIRLTALK THE VIRGINIA MONOLOGUES

Let’s Face it!

I

’ve grown to dislike the ‘like’ button on Facebook. I was never a big fan and always found it a little sick and self-serving.

Someone leaves a comment underneath your profile picture telling you how great you look, and of course you dutifully press like. Three hundred people wish you a happy birthday: How can you possibly not ‘like’ that? So, of course, you oblige and do just that. Someone announces that they’ve had a rotten day. What’s there to like? But surprisingly 100 people do. I find it all so twee and nauseating. And yet, I suppose I am as guilty as the rest of them…

Yes, I too have pressed ‘like’, even against my better judgement… even when I wasn’t particularly impressed and didn’t really ‘like’ whatever it is I was liking.

Because Facebook does that to you. Yes, Facebook has a way of turning you into someone you don’t really like, partly because you allow yourself to get carried away in the moment. Because waking up to 300 birthday greetings does feel good – very good, in fact, let’s Face it!

But of course, on the flip side, there are things you don’t particularly like and feel compelled and constrained to.

Sometimes, it almost feels like the person posting last year’s memory expects – nay demands – it of you. There it is, staring you in the face as soon as you log in. You look away, tell yourself you haven’t seen it, but it keeps popping up all over the place willing to be liked. Then there’s that terrible profile picture waiting for your stamp of approval and ‘like’. You panic.

This is far too painful and hypocritical. To like it is testing your limits and pushing

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that envelope a little too far. Can you really summon that sort of pretence? You also know you’ll probably be quizzed later on in the day when you’re finally asked the question: ‘Did you see what I posted today?’ You hesitatingly acknowledge that, yes, you did and will like it later on in the day. How’s that for completely barmy?

with the consequent risk of giving people to believe that you are endorsing the article in lieu of the Facebook post?

Is it really worth being ‘misunderstood’ and possibly misquoted and misconstrued? In an age of screenshots, blogs and Photoshop, do you really want to go there?

“THEN THERE’S THAT TERRIBLE PROFILE PICTURE WAITING FOR YOUR STAMP OF APPROVAL AND ‘LIKE’. YOU PANIC. THIS IS FAR TOO PAINFUL AND HYPOCRITICAL. TO LIKE IT IS TESTING YOUR LIMITS AND PUSHING THAT ENVELOPE A LITTLE TOO FAR. CAN YOU REALLY SUMMON THAT SORT OF PRETENCE?” There are also times when liking a post becomes a little dangerous. Someone shares an article that you don’t agree with or like at all, accompanied by a write-up, status or post dissing the article, which you find interesting and clever. What to do? Do you risk pressing the like button

Other posts are far more straightforward and leave no room for interpretation. When someone writes a long and detailed post targeting someone in particular, there can be no excuses unless, of course, you don’t know how to read, in which case you shouldn’t be on

Facebook and you certainly shouldn’t ever press that button.

Because whenever you ‘like’ a post, you are endorsing that post in its entirety – every single word of it, even its tone.

Which is why I am very careful when it comes to liking posts. Even if I am in agreement with 95 per cent of it, I will not ‘like’ it. I am loathe to ‘like’ a post if there is one sentence, or even a couple of words, I disagree with. And of course, even if I happen to agree with every single word, I would never dream of liking a post that is in any way derogatory, mean, or hurtful and which targets a person specifically.

I’m not even talking about good friends here, which is, of course, out of the question as far as I’m concerned. I’m referring to people I may not even know personally, or people I may not even like very much. Still, why participate in an attack on someone else? To what end? To me, it’s the virtual equivalent of bullying; of kicking someone when they’re down. It’s ugly and cruel.

I was recently privy to a Facebook post where someone I know [a Facebook friend] was subjected to this sort of treatment. We don’t share the same circle of friends and she is not even someone I have ever mixed with socially. Still, I was horrified to see that one of her own friends had posted a comment that was an unveiled attack on a member of her family. This was met with a number of ‘likes’ and ‘shares’, presumably from other friends within her circle. Until, amazingly and rather bravely, the lady herself popped in to tell everyone what she thought of all these people [these so-called ‘friends’], who had unashamedly pressed ‘like’.

I find this sort of behaviour breathtakingly crass, uncouth and appalling. How can you even dream of liking a post that is even remotely offensive about someone you know and have known for years; someone you may call ‘a friend’; someone you may have gone to school with and shared many memories with; or someone you may have worked with or for?

And even if this is someone you are only on ‘good morning’ terms with, why go there? Is it really worth the aggro in the grand scheme of things? Is it worth hurting someone’s feelings? In aid of what exactly?

What does a ‘like’ achieve? Are you richer for it? Are battles – or elections for that matter – won by pressing ‘like’? Does liking something targeting someone else make you sleep better at night? How utterly pointless!

There are so many things I read on Facebook every single day, which I could thrash and knock and which I disagree with vehemently. I read hundreds of articles on and off Facebook, which I find banal. So what? There’s a lot to be said for ignoring something you don’t like and if you really can’t do that, then compose your own post – something measured and balanced. But don’t, for goodness sake, rely on someone else’s vitriol and spite and just press ‘like’ because you are unknowingly liking their malicious agenda.

If something goes against your principles and you have to express yourself, then use your voice, not someone else’s. To like something which someone else has written – which can’t possibly do justice to the way you feel, especially when it isn’t pleasant or complimentary – is absolute lunacy.

A friend is more important than a ‘like’. So, do think twice before pressing that button. ginantonic@live.com

TABLETALK

A SUMMER SOUP

Try out MARIA CACHIA’s almond and roasted garlic gazpacho with cucumber, avocado and mint…

INGREDIENTS Serves 4 4 cloves roasted garlic 8 tbsp ground almonds 2 cucumbers, peeled and roughly chopped 1 avocado, chopped in half and flesh separated from skin 1 small handful mint leaves 150ml water or more if desired Freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

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METHOD Preheat the oven to 170°C and loosely wrap a whole bulb of garlic in baking paper and then in foil. The baking paper could be wet under running water to make it more malleable.

Roast the garlic for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cloves give in when gently pressed. Allow the garlic to come to room temperature. When cool enough to handle, remove the four cloves.

[The remaining cloves can be frozen.]

Place a frying pan on a high flame, and when it is hot, pour in the ground almonds and gently toast them. This should take one minute or so. The

ground almonds will look just slightly golden. Do not allow to get brown as they will otherwise burn. Remove the almonds from the pan and place on a plate to cool down and come to room temperature.

In a blender place the chopped cucumber, avocado, nutritional yeast and water. Add the garlic and the ground almonds. Add the mint leaves and more water if the soup is too thick. Season with fresh salt and pepper. Add the lemon juice slowly.

Pour the soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least three hours before serving. Serve with crusty bread, or breadsticks.

WOMENONWHEELS

RESTORING THE JOYS OF DRIVING Fashion and travel blogger Stephanie Xerri Agius [styleintransit.com] often finds driving exhausting, but the new Kia Rio has boosted her enthusiasm for getting behind the wheel.

M

ost people consider driving a necessary evil; an inevitable chore that gets them to their destinations, albeit in a flustered state.

Due to the daily congested roads, it is unquestionable that driving has become tiring. Moreover, in soaring temperatures, hitting the late 30s, it can be a worse nightmare.

As I drove to Motors Inc in Qormi for a test drive of the freshly launched Kia Rio EX, I tried to remind myself of the joys of driving. I also reflected on how we perceive cars: are they merely machines that get us from point A to point B, or do we value them for the driving experience?

As I sat in the driver’s seat in preparation for the test drive, all thoughts of discomfort evaporated.

First off, it was as though the car moulded itself to my dimensions. Being on the shorter side, I was able to adjust not only the seat, but also the steering wheel to maximise the control I had when driving, thanks to a height adjustable driver seat and telescopic steering wheel.

“I see its overall design being particularly targeted at clients who mean business, such as young executives, or academic professionals” Next, I reached out for the AC because the external temperature display warned me that it was 36°C outside. What I immediately liked about the climate control feature was that it indicates the temperature you are setting… and I could enjoy a much cooler ride at 22°C. I drove off into heavy traffic, which, thankfully, subsided as I made my way

towards the sleepier, picturesque village of Zurrieq. On some roads, I could put the car’s potential to the test by upping the speed. Despite the slight increase, the brake assist system and stability features made me feel safer and in full control of the car, so the ride was very smooth overall.

Externally, the Kia Rio is sleek and chic, designed with attention to detail: from its 15” alloy wheels to the fog lamps, I see its overall design being particularly targeted at clients who mean business, such as young executives, or academic professionals.

Internally, it is comfortable and luxurious at the same time, with its plush leather seats. The steering wheel and gear knob also have leather trimmings, and finally, it has to be said that the car boot is quite spacious – a feature that is always a huge plus in my books.

Following this smooth ride, my faith in the joy of driving has been restored.

It felt as though someone was telling me to sit back, relax, and enjoy this trip, with the tiny difference that I was the driver, having so much fun behind the wheel once again, thanks to Kia Rio. Pink July 2017 ∫ 63

SNAPSHOT

AT HOME ON STAGE Becky Camilleri is carving a name for herself on the local theatre scene. The young thespian, who is taking part in this year’s Shakespeare at San Anton production, The Taming of the Shrew, tells Pink about her love for the craft. A big chunk of who she is today is a result of the lessons [good and bad] that theatre and acting have taught her.

Photography Julian Vassallo

W

hen did you first take up acting?

I remember going to watch my first pantomime at the Manoel when I was five years old and being completely in awe of what I was experiencing. I was enamoured by the spectacle of it all and knew that I wanted to be on that stage. At that point in time, I was extremely shy, so my mother thought it would be a good idea to send me to Stagecoach, in the hope that it would help me come out of my shell. Needless to say, it worked, and after spending eight years there, I had caught the acting bug…

There was no turning back! After a couple of pantomimes and productions, I auditioned for Teatru Manoel Youth Theatre [TMYT], where I trained for five years. It was TMYT and, more specifically, Denise Mulholland, who really nurtured my talent, pushed me to my limits, and made me truly consider pursuing acting as a future career.

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Becky Camilleri in Tainted Love, an original script written and directed by Becky herself and Tina Rizzo. Photography Tina Rizzo

What do you love about being an actress? I simply can’t imagine my life

without acting and I don’t ever want to have to. I think my reasons for loving the craft have changed as I’ve grown older, too. At first, it gave me a sense of confidence. Later, it allowed me to express my creativity in a way I hadn’t

most unlikeable characters. Now, I love it for all those reasons and more.

Who would you say has influenced you the most in your life and why?

I honestly don’t think I’ve ever been influenced by one specific person. I am constantly influenced by a range of

“I WAS EXTREMELY SHY, SO MY MOTHER THOUGHT IT WOULD BE A GOOD IDEA TO SEND ME TO STAGECOACH, IN THE HOPE THAT IT WOULD HELP ME COME OUT OF MY SHELL” been able to before. Then, I enjoyed the escapism and the way performances had the ability to move people and make them empathise with even the

people who I respect for a variety of reasons. I admire friends who I see chasing dreams despite the obstacles they face. I’m influenced by my parents,

SNAPSHOT in the way they show unconditional love, support and always push me to be kind.

I look up to actors who are dedicated and selfless in the work they do. And I admire people who are bold and brave in the face of adversity. That didn’t really narrow it down, though, I think…

How would you describe your day-to-day style? That’s a tricky one;

I think I go through phases. I’ve been kind of gothic, grunge, ultra-girly, boho-chic, and even went through a bit of a 1980s-inspired period this year.

Generally, though, I’d say I like to go for classic looks, with a bit of an edge;

Becky Camilleri and Philip Leone Ganado in Twelfth Night by Shakespeare at the Pub. Photography Jacob Sammut Jonathan Dunn and Becky Camilleri in MADC’s The Taming of the Shrew.

setting. Admittedly, the language might seem weird, but if you go and see it performed, as Shakespeare intended, I’m sure you’ll be pleasantly surprised…

Shakespeare’s works are universally relatable and, therefore, timeless.

That’s why his work is still performed with such frequency today.

Truth be told, it took my participation in a few Shakespeare productions to realise that it’s not really highbrow at all.

Shakespeare understands humanity in such a way that it speaks to everyone. You just need to give it a chance.

“PEOPLE THINK THAT ACTING IS ALL ABOUT PRETENDING, BUT THAT’S NOT QUITE IT. YOU’VE GOT TO PEEL AWAY ALL YOUR DEFENCES TO REALLY ACCESS THE TRUTH” some blush and mascara, among other things. I must admit I’ve recently become somewhat of a make-up addict and probably spend way too much time watching make-up tutorials. something slightly unexpected, which gives me a bit of individuality. When I was 16, I went through a period of just wearing one earring, which, in hindsight, was not my smartest choice.

Initially, it was because one piercing had closed and I was too lazy to get it redone. When people started commenting on how bizarre it was, it just made me like it even more, and I went on to sport the questionable look for a couple of years, until my mother [the voice of reason] finally made me see the light.

What are your three main beauty essentials? It depends on my mood

and the time of the day, to be honest.

If I need to be out of the house before 10am, it’s literally toothpaste, toothbrush and a splash of water. If I have time to get ready and feel alive, then I tend to slap on a nude lipstick,

How did you get involved in The Taming of the Shrew? I’ve always

wanted to take part in Shakespeare at San Anton, so when I heard that the MADC was putting up The Taming of the Shrew, I knew I needed to try out for Katherine. So, here I am, a few months later, in the midst of rehearsals. The process has been both challenging and enjoyable in that Kate is such a complex character. Fortunately, I find myself surrounded by an incredibly talented cast and director, who have made the process even more enjoyable.

Some people see Shakespeare as being highbrow. Would you agree?

I’ve been asked this question quite a lot lately. I think we can all agree that, at a glance, Shakespeare can be intimidating; especially if you’ve only been exposed to it in an academic

What is the biggest lesson the stage has taught you? Just one? I think a big

chunk of who I am today is a result of the lessons [good and bad] that theatre and acting have taught me. I think something I’m currently realising is that you can’t be honest on stage if you’re not honest with yourself in real life. People think that acting is all about pretending, but that’s not quite it. You’ve got to peel away all your defences to really access the truth. I imagine people will be rolling their eyes when they read this, but it sounds less obnoxious when I say it in real life, promise.

What’s next for Rebecca once The Taming of the Shrew is over? After The

Taming of the Shrew, I have a month to relax and get everything in order before I pack up and move to London for an MA Acting Course at Arts Education School.

It’s quite overwhelming, but also a super exciting new chapter. After that, I’ll just have to see where life takes me…

The MADC’s The Taming of the Shrew is directed by Polly March. The production is on at San Anton Gardens until July 23. For more information and tickets, visit www.madc.com.mt

Pink July 2017 ∫ 65

STARGAZER

THE FUTURE IS

PINK ARIES MARCH 20-APRIL 18 Life is exciting. With eclipses on August 7 and 21 shaking things up, insurmountable obstacles vanish, which means long-standing dreams can become reality, and unexpected ideas, offers and encounters revolutionise rigid arrangements. Not only is the pace swift, but also, you’ve little control in practical decisions involving others.

If you find this frustrating, remember, others have no more control than you do. Actually, that’s best, because what’s least expected could turn out to be a breakthrough for everybody concerned.

CANCER JUNE 21-JULY 21 Being ruled by the moon, you’re especially conscious of the influence of the lunar cycle on both events and everybody’s mood, your own and others’. Yet not only do the two eclipses on August 7 and 21 intensify feelings, but they’re also about turning points. Unsettling as this seems, you’ll welcome most changes, if only because they’ll enable you to break away from restrictive, if reassuring, situations. These will lead to progress, but you won’t know how until mid-September at the earliest.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 22-OCTOBER 22 Initially, it seems certain individuals are reorganising things for their convenience yet ignoring their impact on others, including you.

But as you learn about the planetary setup during late July and all of August, and the resulting shakeups, you’ll realise every sign is influenced. And everybody will be making changes, some welcome, but many abrupt if not worrying, at least initially. Ironically, the latter will lead to breakthroughs, but how won’t be immediately clear. Be patient. The results will justify a little chaos.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 21-JANUARY 18 Ordinarily, obstacles are meant to be overcome, but now they’re slowing your pace and, mostly, encouraging a review of existing arrangements and, even more, your future plans. This is timely, because the actual foundation on which these are based are shifting. So, ask yourself questions about goals you’ve regarded as unchanging, then discuss what you learn with those who are key in your personal and working life. What you discover could lead to a timely, if not overdue, shift in your thinking and priorities.

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According to astrologer SHELLEY VON STRUNCKEL… TAURUS

GEMINI

APRIL 19-MAY 19 Initially, it will seem certain individuals are tinkering with long-standing arrangements, or organisations have altered the way things are done, often overnight. But with August’s two eclipses on the 7th and 21st shaking things up in the world around you, changes are inevitable and will be sudden. Yet they’ll also enable you to alter, if not rid yourself of, unrewarding situations, even those that seemed unending. Worrying as some developments seem initially, be patient. They’re clearing obstacles for timely developments.

LEO

MAY 20-JUNE 20 Usually, you’re the first to spot new trends and discuss them with those who are in the know. However, with your ruler Mercury retrograde from August 13 until September 5, you’ll be short of facts and unsure of your priorities. Still, seek out gathering vital information, then discuss your insights with others. State your views, explaining you’re no more sure of the outcome than anybody else. Having clarified that, make a joint effort to explore changes in existing arrangements and future plans.

VIRGO

JULY 22-AUGUST 21 The New Moon in your sign each year marks a fresh start. This year, however, not only are there two Leo New Moons on July 23 and August 21, but also, the second is an eclipse, which itself indicates sudden, unexpected, but timely breakthroughs. Knowing that, ensure plans are flexible and, equally, inform others lives about thrilling, if occasionally unsettling, sudden change and growth. Things will come together, but not until early September, and in a very different form than you’d imagined possible.

SCORPIO

AUGUST 22-SEPTEMBER 21 August is a month of breakthroughs, although you won’t always recognise events as being that when they occur. Plus, with your ruler Mercury retrograde from August 13 until September 5, both circumstances and your priorities will be confused. Do the minimum, in terms of duties and future plans. This may be out of character, but ensures you avoid struggling with arrangements that would soon change, anyway. Instead, declutter your life and vision of once-inspiring goals, knowing you’ll make them bigger and better.

SAGITTARIUS

OCTOBER 23-NOVEMBER 21 If you’ve learnt from recent events that what seem obstacles are actually prompting you to explore your options, then when August’s sudden changes arise, you won’t battle them; you’ll ask questions. While some will have straightforward answers, most developments will be ongoing and, in many cases, far-reaching. Get involved. If changes are personal, seek insights from experts and if they influence others too, join together to learn what you can. This won’t just be informative; often you’ll form new and rewarding relationships.

AQUARIUS

NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 20 Whatever you do, August’s twists and turns will demand sudden changes and, often, that you rethink plans, both long-standing and recent. This slows the pace, but also enables you to reorganise elements of your life that have been a consistent source of frustration. However, with eclipses on August 7 and 21 triggering ongoing shakeups, ensure what you organise and your attitude are flexible. If ever there was a time to rid yourself of burdensome arrangements and make far-reaching changes, it’s now.

PISCES

JANUARY 19-FEBRUARY 17 By as early as mid-July, you’ll have hints that elements of your world are changing. Pay close attention. These are preparing you for the powerful events triggered by the Aquarius eclipsed Full Moon on August 7. Take it slowly, avoiding decisions until August’s second, equally powerful, eclipse on the 21st. Because these influence others and the world around you too, focus on discussing and discovering the options these developments are triggering. What seems most disruptive could, once you learn more, be hugely welcome.

FEBRUARY 18-MARCH 19 While you understand, better than most, that even unexpected changes are necessary for growth and happiness, living with the variety of uncertainty you face during August won’t be easy. Bear in mind that the Pisces Full Moon on September 6 will bring it all together, and magnificently. Knowing that, observe August’s often unsettling twists and turns as being about necessary, if unsettling, events, and instead of worrying about them, you’ll undertake a reorganisation that, deep down, you know is timely, if not overdue.

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