Trendlife Magazine Dec 2014

thexmasEDITION

SHOP IT LIKE IT’S HOT THE MOST WANTED CHRISTMAS GIFTS AND HOW TO GET THEM CHEAP

TRENDING IN 2014

OUR OVERVIEW OF WHAT WILL BE TRENDING THROUGHOUT 2014

table manners

MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS MEAL LOOK LIKE SOMETHING OFF A POSTCARD

SURVIVAL GUIDE

GET THE MOST OUT OF THE ANNUAL BOXING DAY SALES WITH OUR HELP

FASHION | lifestyle | ENTERTAINMENT | SPORT | music

CONTENTS 6 Main features 8 Christmas decoration ideas

Capture the magic of Christmas with rich colours, glittering lighting and more inspiring decorating ideas.

12 18

Boxing day sale survival

Sarah Stoneley gives you advice on how to survive the all important Boxing Day sales and get the most for your money.

Xmas top 25 gift guide

Our editorial team spent all of November testing products to bring you the ultimate Top 25 Christmas gift list.

What’s new

best song of 2013 | 48 - 50 French robots, an angry hip-hop genius going off on corporate racism, LGBT issues and a wreaking ball. What is the No.1?

time for a new toy | 54 - 59 Upgrade 2014 in style with the Jaguar F-Type S which gets 375bhp from a 3 litre supercharged engine.

xmas Party time

NEW year, new car

Lifestyle

Cake & Cocktails | 34 - 35

Blending the alcoholic awesomeness of cocktails with the sugary stupendousness of cupcakes.

gain skills get work | 36 A4e is a leading public service provider that people to find and keep jobs, and help others set up their own businesses.

hello caketails

Fashion, style and beauty Celebrating 40 years of Puffa | 18 - 19 We take a look at why Puffa has been synonymous with British sporting excellence for nearly 40 years.

packing for a winter break | 30 - 31

Like many others, Helena Cartwright is jetting away this Christmas. Look into the stylish capsule wardrobe she packed for New York City in Winter.

The other 25 essential gifts | 38 - 40

In preparing the top 25 Christmas gift list, our team had to make some tough calls on a selection of equally good gifts that should still be considered.

Entertainment

Breaking bad comes to an end | 46

A cancer-ridden science teacher transforms himself into a sinister meth lord. That’s the story of ‘Breaking Bad’ With the show over, what’s next? Better call Saul.

best song of 2013? you decide | 48 - 50 French robots, an angry hip-hop genius going off on corporate racism, LGBT issues and a wreaking ball.

xbox one vs playstation 4 | 52 - 53

We review the latest generation consoles to decide which console should be under the Christmas tree.

#relaxation

#MUSIC #MOVIES #FASHION #BEAUTY

8

ideas for your habitat this christmas Habitat has launched its twelfth mini Habitat store within the Hemel Hempstead branch of Homebase following on from the successful roll out of mini-store concepts across the UK. Approximately 2,200sq ft in size across two floors of the store, the new miniHabitat store will feature Habitat’s best loved designs and has launched with product from the AW13 collection including furniture, textiles, lighting and home accessories. Speaking of the new mini Habitat store opening, Managing Director, Clare Askem said: “Habitat has always been about making great design accessible to as many people as possible so we are delighted to be opening our new mini Habitat store in

Hemel Hempstead and re-establishing the Habitat brand across the UK. The new store will now provide access to our full range of products in a convenient location for customers from the Hertfordshire region and bring Habitat to a wider audience outside of the London area.”

As well as the extensive in-store range, customers will also have the option to browse the entire Habitat collection via a new i-Pad service in-store from which they can order additional products for collection at a later date.

Visit www.habitat.co.uk for more info.

things to consider this christmas 1. Move away from traditional red or green colour themes for a more sophisticated look.

2. Try combining white tableware with gold accessories for a more modern look. Ensure the table isn’t over cluttered.

3. Avoid too much symmetry. Maybe on the table but as a rule, position your decorations with some randomness.

4. Candles can create soft lighting and are particularly great around Christmas time. Candelabras are also very elegant and provide height to the table.

5. Select two or three colours for your theme. The look should be understated with the quality of the product used speaking for itself.

All of Habitat’s products are united by their enduring design, affordable prices and the quality of the materials used. We have selected our favourite pieces from the collection and you can see two of them in our Christmas gift guide online.

12

Boxing Day

the essential survival guide

by Sarah Stoneley Boxing Day, a day to relax. For children to play with their new toys, adults to crack open one of the one hundred bottles of wine they received and finish off the celebrations.

It is the beginning of the five day lull between Christmas and New Year.

Teenagers go to work for the double pay while the parents cherish every last minute they have off work with happy, chocolate filled children.

most successful department stores in the world; Selfridges & Co who enjoyed their most successful hour of trading in history on December 26 2011 as many people rushed for the sales of designer products that they definitely could not afford at normal retail price.

Gaynor Davey from Debenhams, Oxford Street said about the 2012 sale ‘It’s our biggest sale ever to react to customer demand, the current economic climate where they are looking for the best Of course that is only a small fraction of the bargains’. country these days, there is a new Boxing The fact that the boom in online shopping Day activity that seems to have taken has boosted has resulted in the popularity hold… The sales! of Boxing Day sales online (at least you can shop from your bed instead of pressing your Boxing Day sales are enough to scare face against a stores front door at 6am). any shopaholic and credit card away from the department stores. Over the past I think the main question here is not, do few years it has become so intense that people have started to set up camp outside you want to go to the Boxing Day sales? their favourite stores in order to be the first But more, how are you going to survive the Boxing Day Sales? to find the bargains. Of course this has become extremely popular in one of the

Firstly, if you are brave enough to venture out there into the wild you need tactics, real tactics! You need to know exactly what you’re looking for and what you want. Don’t waste time browsing for things you don’t want or need, this isn’t a normal shopping day where you have all the time in the world.

Think of it more as your own, real life version of Supermarket Sweep, you have a list of things to get and you don’t even look at anything else. Eyes on the prize.

You need to remember that the chances are, people are not going to be friendly. If you are hard-core enough to queue up in the street then I’m sure everybody will be delightful but when those doors open it is every man for himself.

You need the perfect amount of confidence and sneakiness, show them who is boss and stand your ground as there is nothing more annoying than queue jumpers

especially at six in the morning that day after Christmas when I’m sure you will be nursing a mild hangover and food coma.

Although please don’t actually start a fight, keep in mind that; one, you aren’t in the school playground; two, it is only a bag and three, you do have some morals that should be stuck by (getting a middle aged woman in a head lock for a LV bag just cries out desperation).

Like the famous quote from Mean Girls ‘All the fighting has to be sneaky’ so if you find a bargain keep it on the down low and hold on tight to it. That way, you won’t have a swarm of humans around you or anybody trying to steal it because you got the last one.

Finally and most importantly, keep in mind the seasons. A massive rookie error made by so many is seeing an incredible deal and snatching it before even thinking about it.

Stop and think… Why is it this cheap? The chances are it will be going out of style very shortly or it is totally out of season and the store needs to get rid of it.

Try not to become the victim of this scam, many stores see the dazed shopaholics as pray for this little trick.

Don’t forget that although it may be great value it is still money you are spending that you will not get back. So save yourself the disappointment of being left with some hideous items after the adrenaline has worn off and think on your feet.

I can only wish you luck now, I will be sticking to a quick browse on my Ipad whilst eating my Lint bunny in front of the fire but I will be thinking of you all as I do.

Keep in mind the tips and do not lose your head. See you on the other side.

best shops for sales The January sales are a great time to hit the high street and snap up those post-Christmas bargains.

Some retail stores offer some amazing discounts and offers from Christmas Eve if you have any money left over from buying all those Christmas gifts.

Below are the dates and retailers we suggest you add to your diary.

H&M - 18 Dec 2013 Next - 27 Dec 2013 Harvey Nichols - 26 Dec 2013 Liberty - 26 Dec 2013 Peter Jones - 27 Dec 2013 Harrods - 28 Dec 2013 John Lewis - 2 Jan 2014

ABOUT SARAH STONELEY A Cheshire country girl taking on the big city. Avid fashion writer and blogger in love with all things quirky. Especially adore Instagram, handbags, Balenciaga, Nick Knight, Fleetwood Mac and popcorn. In a perfect world I would be Marilyn Monroe and that would be it. @SarahhsxInstagram | Instagram sarahstoneley

The Amway Research Institute has a team of scientists and dermatologists who have been working hard to find the secret to young looking skin – and they’ve found it!

The secret lies in the formation of “youth proteins” such as sirtuin and collagen whose natural formation decreases with age; resulting in skin losing its moisture and elasticity, leaving it prone to wrinkles.

ARTISTRY™ Youth Xtend is a skin care series that helps to reprogram the skin’s biological clock and is designed to repair the signs of skin aging and to protect the skin against negative environmental influences.

The range includes a 4-step Power System consists of Enriching Cream (RRP £58.35), Serum Concentrate (RRP £72.95), Enriching Eye Cream (RRP £43.75) and Protecting Cream (RRP £53.65).

Further products that complement the Power System are Rich Cleansing Foam (RRP £38.50) and Enriching Lotion (RRP £58.35) and Protecting Lotion (RRP £53.65).

Xmas party Preparation guide It is that time of year. The one chance we have to prove how great we can look to the people that see us every day. The ones that see us on the mental breakdown type days and the slept through the alarm type days.

It’s now or never to show them that actually, you do scrub up pretty well. This is an article compact with the best beauty products out there to help you put together ‘the look’ for your Christmas party. So get that face mask on and shave your legs because this year you will be nothing short of fabulous.

Skin Products Bare Minerals Faux Tan Sunless Tanner - £15 Just because it is winter doesn’t mean we have to ditch the sun kissed skin. It may be December but we can still look like bronzed goddesses recently holidayed in Mexico right? With so many fake tan products out there we have so many to choose from but this product really does tick all the boxes!

Whether you just want to add a little colour to your snow flake legs or you want to coat yourself from head to toe this tanning lotion not only spreads evenly and instantly on even the most sensitive skin but also includes minerals to keep your skin soft and radiant.

The Body Shop Body Scrub - £12.50 The Body Shop are renowned for their top notch skin products. With plenty of flavours there literally is an option for anybody from vanilla for the people wanting a less fragrant option to Satsuma for people wanting a fresh and fruity smell.

Simply rub this grainy cream on to your legs before showering and feel the difference immediately as you wash it off. Leaving your skin not only amazingly smooth but smelling super fresh.

The perfect start to the journey of gaining the perfect legs reducing dry skin. If you plan to fake tan afterwards this will reduce pours for a more even spread and natural look.

Hair Products Osis Dust Powder - £8.68 The perfect party hair is on your doorstep with this product. Osis Dust Powder by Schwarzkopf is ideal to transform your hair from a day in the office to Xmas party ready and set to impress friends and colleagues.

More effective than hairspray as it has a long lasting hold. Add this powder to your roots and fluff with your fingers and watch the volume appear before your eyes! Beyonce hair, here we come.

Moroccan Oil - £26.99 Perfect for silky hair with a gorgeous shine. This product is every girls dream for the perfect down-do. If you are planning poker straight hair or luscious curls then this is the product for you. Simply apply a small squeeze of Moroccan Oil to damp hair for the elimination of all post wash frizz. It leaves hair super sleek and smooth with a beautiful smell that lasts for days.

Make Up Chanel Rouge Coco - £24 A little more expensive than the average lippy but we can justify it; one because it’s Christmas and two because it’s Chanel. So we can’t afford the Chanel bag that’s not shy of four figures but this lipstick we have a chance of finding the pennies for.

The saying ‘you get what you pay for’ couldn’t be more accurate here. £24 may be a lot but when you don’t have to keep checking for the feared lipstick faded line it all seems worth it. The Rouge Coco range includes mainly naturally colours so this is for the girl going for understated beauty.

Rimmel Lip Lock £4.99 – So it may smell like nail varnish remover and the first time you put it on it may sting a little but if you are an avid lipstick wearer then this product could be your Christmas party saviour. Simply apply a thin layer of the liquid on top of your lipstick and it does what it says on the tin… locks it in. No more stains on the wine glass or smudges on your colleagues cheeks. Bring on the mistletoe.

18

celebrating 40 years of british design

2013 was a landmark year for British heritage brand Puffa, as they celebrated their 40th year in business. To mark their big year, Puffa launched a series of exclusive collaborations, introduced knitwear and released their strongest Original Collection to date.

Created in 1973 by Penny Rogers after she was inspired by the quilted jackets she had seen on her travels to Canada and the US, Penny set to work to design a small collection of jackets made initially from Eiderdown quilts.

Fast forward 40 years and Puffa’s durable and warm jackets have upped their technological credentials and remained true to their principles of quality and functionality and of course, style.

puffa Inspired by their strong heritage background and the modern urban insider, this years collection pushed the boundaries between the traditional Puffa jacket and more contemporary, trend-led pieces.

The men’s collection featured one of the most popular prints this season in the form of camo. From the light-weight Jacob in both grey and olive camo, to the Niles with the print in the inner of the jacket, this addition was able to bring the brand even more fashion relevance.

They’ve also introduced some new colourways in the parka jacket including an electric blue and bright red.

Ensuring that all weather conditions are covered, the shearling-lined Genfield is perfect for colder days that have arrived later than scheduled.

The original women’s collection is equally as strong, with rich colours, luxurious fabrics and perfect silhouettes. The collection featured shades such as whisper white and gold, with some nipped-in waistlines also making an appearance.

The typical quilted Puffa remains whilst the popular parka makes a comeback in both olive green and deep navy.

For the first time in the history of the brand, Puffa have expanded their collection to include men’s knitwear pieces. From cardigans to jumpers, the four pieces are a welcome addition to the pioneering brand of quilted clothing and demonstrates the brand’s appeal outside its outerwear collection. So much so, one is on our Christmas gift list.

Also in response to this historic year, Puffa teamed up with another deeply-rooted brand, Harris Tweed for a capsule collection that featured the traditional Harris Tweed fabric in a reworked way, whilst still sticking to the innate traditions that both historical brands represent.

The collection featured two menswear designs, in the form of a retro tweed bomber and tweed gilet which became exclusively available on www.puffa.com in November.

More exciting collaborations and products are expected so there is no need to fear getting knitwear from your aunt this Christmas.

20 the all important

top 50 christmas gift guide Choosing the right Christmas gift for everyone on your list can be tough. You want to give them something they will enjoy so they won’t have to pretend to like your Christmas gift - we’ve all been there.

You also want to give them something they will actually use rather than toss into a closet and forget about by March.

Thanks to the team here at TrendLife, you don’t need to worry about that as we have compiled the Top 50 Christmas Gift Guide to help avoid your presents becoming closet junk. The first 25 from 50 to 26 are listed in detail on our website leaving us with the important top 25 to review.

Our panel reviewed numerous products that we felt would be of interest to our readers. To ensure the guide was not made up of an expensive wish list, each selected item had to be following.

Affordable - The country is broke and most of us are feeling the pinch. If you were rich, you will would probably have your maid or personal assistant rummaging through John Lewis. As that is probably not the case, like the rest of us, price will be an important factor.

Practicality - Are they really going to use it? God forbid that you spend your time and money getting a present that will not be opened and spend eternity in a loft until someone needs a wedding gift.

Stylish - Given the broad range of products in the Top 50, asking for all of them to be stylish is far fetched but, in an ideal world, the gift should be desirable if not stylish. That rules out socks and ties.

If you are still struggling to find that perfect gift after reading our gift guide, give up.

**All prices and availability featured are subject to change - The Editor

#24

#25 Help get that last person in your family on the internet. Cheap but powerful enough, the Acer C720 Chromebook is ideal for the light surfer at an incredible price. £199.99 | www.pcworld.com

Michael Kors first offering on our list is the highly fashionable but incredibly practical Selma Satchel. Available in various colours. £358 | www.michaelkors.com

#23 Ideal for the globetrotter in your life, this wall accessory would look great in any bedroom, kitchen or office. With a bit of string and some drawing pins, updating your travels across the globe could turn into fun. £18.99 | www.iwantoneofthose.com

#22

#21

A perfect accessory for the high end fashionista that you know. This white calf leather Moschino belt will match many outfits and is perfect for all seasons. £232 | www.farfetch.com

Despite costing £80 more than the PS4 and it’s back tracking on DRM/used games policy, the xBox One makes it into the top 25. Limited stock. £429.99 | www.amazon.com

#20

#19

The Canon EOS 700D sits in a category of DLSR cameras that Canon says is for beginners.

While it is a bit pricey as an entry DLSR, it is worth every penny for that buddy photographer. £485 | www.jessops.com

#18

Knitwear is always a favourite at Christmas and this magical Louche Unicorn Jumper would make the perfect gift for anyone and can be used all year around. £45 | www.joythestore.com

#17

With real working buttons, this retro iPhone Speaker Tape Recorder is the perfect presents for anyone over thirty and owns an iPhone 4 or 5. £35 | www.truffleshuffle.co.uk

#16 This limited edition from Puffa features a retro two-tone Jonfield bomber Jacket which incorporate the famous herringbone tweed fabric. £149.99 | www.puffa.com

Your girlfriend doesn’t have to forego colour just because it’s winter. Snap up this vibrant Mimi Daniel in pink clutch to spice up monochrome and all black outfits. £43 | www.mimiberry.co.uk

#15

#14

Featuring a bold embroidered eagle motif, this Stealla McCartney jumper will bring a touch of the wild to any knitwear collection. £510 | www.selfridges.com

#13

The EASTPAK Padded Pak’r has been one of the most recognised backpack designs for a long time. Rugged, durable and now in leather. What is not to like? £140 | www.eastpak.com

#11 Classy & sophisticated. These metallic flat pumps are a wardrobe treat for work or play. Metallics will be as big next season as they are now, so grab a pair for a sister. £95 | www.whistles.com

#12 Can’t think what to get your dad or uncle?

If you know what team they support, head on over to KitBag who have various Retro Replica Shirts from some of the biggest years in football history. Prices start from £24 | www.kitbag.com

Presented in a contemporary and elegant box, this limited edition gift set contains two sleek Rémy Martin glasses alongside a bottle of Rémy VSOP. £34.99 | www.majestic.co.uk

#10 Apple TV. The simplest way to smarten Mum’s telly, with instant access to Netflix not to mention the entire iTunes store for on-demand movies. She will be impressed. £99.99 | www.apple.com

#9 If you can get your hands on one, Sony’s PS4 will keep ‘him’ entertained while all those other unfortunate souls are left to watch BBC reruns over the Christmas break. ‘He’ will be pleased. £349.99 | www.game.com

#8 This amazing Sartorial fragrance collection from Penhaligon’s on the Burlington Arcade would be ideal for close friends and family members who appreciate the finer things in life. Prices start from £65 | www.penhaligons.com

#7 Michael Kors watches were in high demand throughout 2013. This beautiful Slim Runaway Watch is from the S/S14 collection and will keep the trend running. £145 | www.asos.com

#6

Our team have sampled over ten pairs of headphones in the last four months and none compare to the MF100. Truly in a league of their own. A must for music lovers. £99.99 | www.musicalfidelity.com

#5 Evoke screen siren glamour in these striking Paloma court shoes from Charlotte Olympia. Handcrafted in Italy by angels according to legends. £595 | Selfridges

#4

Our last piece of jewellery on this list is this amazing 9ct White Gold Grand Oval Borderset ring in fancy yellow. Bold, beautiful & worth every penny.

A stunningly desirable ring that is very affordable. £391 | www.johnsonsjewellers.co.uk

#3 Gucci By Gucci For Women The winning combination of fruity top notes with honey, patchouli and musk will ensure this remains an enduring classic. One of the biggest sellers this year. Prices start from £39.50 | www.debenhams.com

#2 The complete Breaking Bad series is available on both DVD and Blu Ray but the only version that makes No.2 on our list is the Deluxe Barrel Edition. A must for fans. Prices start from £240 | www.amazon.com

#1 You guessed it. The number present for 2014 is Apple’s iPad Air. It is unbelievably thin and light. Apple know how to make products for the masses.

From £399 | www.apple.com

28

nourish your winter skin with blend collective

The change in season may leave your spirits low and your skin looking dry and dull. Give your body and mind some much needed TLC with the following nourishing products from one of our favourite bath and body care brands, Blend Collective.

Blend Collective are a team of leading aromatherapy and perfume experts that have combined their expertise to produce an exceptional range of truly natural body care.

Every product is between 99% to 100% natural with a carefully considered blend of delicate essential oils and other powerful natural ingredients, designed to nourish and nurture body and mind.

The change in season may leave your spirits low and your skin looking dry and dull. Give your body and mind some much needed TLC with the following nourishing products from one of our favourite bath and body care brands, Blend Collective.

The change in season may leave your spirits low and your skin looking dry and dull. Give your body and mind some much needed TLC with the following nourishing products from one of our favourite bath and body care brands, Blend Collective.

Blend Collective are a team of leading aromatherapy and perfume experts that have combined their expertise to produce an exceptional range of truly natural body care.

Every product is between 99% to 100% natural with a carefully considered blend of delicate essential oils and other powerful natural ingredients, designed to nourish and nurture body and mind.

New York City:

Packing the perfect capsule wardrobe

by Helena Cartwright

Inspired by my up-coming fashion-filled break to the Big Apple this Christmas, I aim to put together a stylish yet warm capsule wardrobe for the perfect winter break. In my mind, I have a vision of stylish winter coats paired with oversized knits and my favourite winter boots. In reality things are proving to be a little bit harder…

As I wade through the sea of knitwear rapidly drowning my flat, I’ve been steadily compiling a list of my top tips for packing the perfect capsule wardrobe for the perfect Christmas getaway which I hope some of you will find useful; after all, us fashion aficionados are in this together!

How cold will it be? Will it snow? Will I blend in seamlessly with the city’s elite fashionistas?

30

Questions, questions, questions!

For me, every early alarm call since I can remember has culminated in a monumental struggle as I desperately cling onto my duvet. Making the transition from pyjamas to aeroplane attire has been made even easier by Zara this season with their navy blue knitted jumpsuit. I didn’t think it was possible to love them anymore, but when I laid my eyes on this, it happened.

It’s comfortable, it’s cosy and it ensures that I look as best as I can given the circumstances. My advice? Team it with warm accessories (think soft, flowing scarves and knitted gloves) for the trip to and from the airport at both ends for one of the cosiest (and reasonably stylish) 8 hours of your life.

We’ve all been there; excitedly uploading

Asos leopard beanie (£8)

your photos only to realise that the one coat you chose to bring dominates every single image. Yes you’re warm and readily prepared for New York’s notorious winter chill, but all the time and effort spent planning the best outfits for your holiday photos is wasted!

So, my tip? A straight forward one: wear your bulkiest coat on the plane and if you can stretch to an additional coat or jacket-do!

Some of my top choices for that classy, winter city look are H&M’s camel coloured wool coat (£49.99), the

g leather ba ntage look ) vi 0 p 2 o 1 sh (£ p To

) it (£59.99 d jumpsu Zara knitte

H&M’s wool coat (£49.99)

black fur-trimmed (always faux for me!) River Island coat (£85), and the Topshop’s pinstriped coat (£210).

If you can’t squeeze in another coat or jacket, change your look each day with the addition of an eclectic blend of scarves, hats and gloves.

With these lightweight and always affordable items you can incorporate current trends and patterns into your winter look with ease!

Examples include the plaid and leopard beanies that Topshop’s pinstriped coat (£210)

I will be taking to NYC in a couple of weeks: perfect for A/W ’13, and perfect for the harsh winter chill that awaits!

Layers are an absolute must. If you plan on a doing some shopping on your break (who wouldn’t?) going in and out of heated shops can be tough (as a serial fainter, I know!).

Opt for a selection of light, breathable and interchangeable layers that can easily be removed either to combat the inevitable super-shopping-sweats, or just to revitalise your look mid-day in a way that any good capsule wardrobe should allow for.

underneath to keep me extra warm, but shh don’t tell anyone!! Again, plaid is a major trend this season.

If you’re like me, you’ll be pleased to know that the contrasting lines of plaid trousers and high waist can prove quite slimming, too-who knew my legs could look that long?

If you aren’t too keen on the admittedly bold patterns, these woollen grey trousers from Zara (£29.99) below are a brilliant winter style, and can be easily married with the essential winter boot.

Tank tops bought from any high street shop There are some amazing boots on the high street at the moment that are ideal are the perfect baselayer. for lots of walking, and a bit of snowTake a couple and build your look around perfect for a festive city break! these! For me, nothing beats a good piece Boots with a thicker sole and a small of knitwear. A roll neck like this River heel will give you some added lift, but Island knit (£35) is sure to keep you well keep you firmly placed in the event of insulated, yet still bang on trend. snow or ice (PHEW!).

This soft pink merino and silk top is another So there we have it- a miniature guide great alternative from Cos at £55. Knits to packing for the perfect festive city like these are available throughout all break! Wherever you go this Christmas, major high street stores in a spectrum of whether we’ll cross paths in New York or colours. whether you’ll just take a trip to the local Christmas fair-do it in style!

For me, trousers are a must for keeping you covered and warm in the wind. Wool especially is ideal for the cold temperatures Clearly, I am a fan of darker, more neutral colours where I can apply you would witness in New York. splashes of print, but these can be I like to put on a pair of tights or thermals changed to suit your preferences.

**All prices and availability featured are subject to change - The Editor

Cos knitwear (£55) Shoe Cult Diverge Combat Boot (£74.47)

By the Book trouser (£35.99)

Topshop double buckle boot (£78)

Shoe Cult Converge Combat Boot (£68.26) About Helen Cartwright I am a 21 year old fashion lover and masters student who holds an insane amount of affection for New York.

I hold jealous feelings to all who live there, or even those who have stepped foot within.

Well, wherever I am, whether it be in busy London, my hometown in Cheshire, or vibrant New York (fingers crossed!!) I aim to bring you plenty of fashion-filled enjoyment!

Read my blog at www.withinmywardrobe.com

34

say hello to my little friend a beginners guide to the wonders of caketails What could make a sugary cupcake covered in butter-icing even more sinful?

How about a generous slug of alcohol?

British cake-makers Jill Collins and Natalie Saville have created a range of “caketails” - cupcakes which taste like cocktails.

Each is based on a popular cocktail and the cake mixes are laced with spirits and liqueurs. Sex On The Beach, for example, is made with butter, sugar, eggs, flour, dried cranberries and a measure of vodka and peach schnapps.

The Strawberry Daiquiri caketail has white rum and chopped strawberries, while the Peppermint Penguin is doused in Crème de Menthe and Baileys.

The Bellini caketail has champagne in the icing and, for Christmas, there’s a Mulled Wine caketail with cinnamon, cloves, orange zest, brandy and Grand Marnier.

Caketails Intoxicating Cupcakes for GrownUps Over 50 recipes featuring adult-rated cupcakes Popular cocktails reproduced in deliciously decadent alcoholic cupcakes Over 50 fantastic recipes and decorating ideas A caketail for every occasion This sophisticated new book takes the humble cupcake, and yanks it up by its bootstraps into the adult world of alcohol, cocktails and pure indulgence.

Caketails - Intoxicating Cupcakes for Grownups is available to buy now online.

Frozen Mojito Caketails recipe Ingredients 2 sticks (8 ounces) butter 3 cups salted pretzels, finely crushed 1 cup plus 6 tablespoons sugar 2 8 ounce packages cream cheese, softened Grated peel of 3 limes, plus 1/2 cup lime juice 2 tablespoons white rum 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint, plus sprigs for garnish 2 cups heavy cream 1. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.

Stir in the pretzels and 2 tablespoons sugar and cook until lightly toasted, about three minutes. Transfer to a bowl to cool slightly.

Press about two tablespoons into the bottom of each cup of a 12-cup muffin pan. Freeze for 30 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl, until fluffy, two to three minutes. Mix in the remaining 1 1/4 cups sugar on low speed, then gradually mix in the lime peel, lime juice, rum and chopped mint.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the cream cheese mixture.

4. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among the muffin cups; smooth the tops. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 8 hours or overnight.

5. To serve, run a wet knife around each cake, then invert the pan onto a clean work surface. Set each cake upright and top with a mint sprig.

36

Getaction help from A4E for employment Dozens of unemployed people in Milton Keynes have dramatically improved their job prospects by attending a two-day course run by public service provider A4e.

Many who had struggled to find work for months or even years managed to secure employment within days of participating.

Skie Pickering, 19, is one of 170 people who have completed the module in Milton Keynes so far this year.

She said the advice she received helped her find a great job making cocktails in a busy town centre bar just four weeks after she attended.

She said: “I had been unemployed for six months and it was really getting me down.

I knew I could get through an interview because I am a confident person but I just didn’t know how to get to that stage.

“The advice I was given on the course helped me put in a much better CV and job application and got me the interview.

I knew I could do the rest and I was over the moon when I got it.”

Skie has such difficulties writing down her ideas clearly, she now wonders if she is dyslexic. But her trainer at the Finding and Getting a Job course, Paul Birkett, helped her untangle her thoughts by asking her questions and getting her to jot down the answers as a starting point for her responses.

He also helped her reorganise her CV, making sure she was selling her skills and abilities and including hobbies and interests.

Skie said: “It was only a two-day course but I learned where I was going wrong and how to put in a brilliant application and immediately started getting responses and feedback, where before I hadn’t even been getting any rejection letters back.”

Jobseekers of all ages are referred to the course by their Jobcentre Plus advisors.

A4e runs 300 two-day courses a year across Thames Valley and Hampshire.

Of the 3,200 customers who attended in the last year, A4e heard back from about 10 per cent who had found a job as a direct result, but the true higher is likely to be far higher as the outcomes are not tracked.

It gives customers the skills and tools, as well as the confidence and motivation, to go out and find employment on their own.

As well as CV and application writing, the course looks at what employers want, transferable skills, avoiding common mistakes, how to prepare a script for a speculative job inquiry and offers mock interviews.

They share their own experiences to motivate and inspire our customers to find work, whether that means promoting a change in attitude or giving them a few useful tools, hints and tips to aid their job search.”

It is run as part of the Jobcentre Plus Support Contract (JCPSC), now in its fifth year of operation, which provides support and training for unemployed customers who need more help to undertake active and effective job-seeking. Anyone attending a Jobcentre Plus can be referred on to the course by their advisor.

Jobcentre Plus Support Contract (JCPSC) A4e is the prime contract holder for the Jobcentre Plus Support Contract (JCPSC) in Thames Valley and Hampshire. JCPSC provides employment training for people who have signed on at Jobcentre Plus and need further support in terms of improving their chances of securing work.

We provide a range of training under the contract aimed at improving job search, interview skills, and CV writing. We also include motivational and confidence building sessions.

Working closely with JCP district offices, A4e Contract Managers are able to help develop training course appropriate to the needs of the local labour market and Jobcentre Plus customers.

Lee Sharpe, A4e’s JCPSC Contract Manager, said: “The two-day course is extremely useful to those customers who are out of touch with how and where to find employment.

“All our trainers delivering this course have an enormous array of knowledge and talent in this area.

A4e delivers the contract directly in 8 delivery centres in Thames Valley. We work with three partners who deliver the contract in the Hampshire. JCPSC is a voluntary contract and attendees are not mandated to attend.

38

still searching FOR CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Some would say if you are shopping for Christmas presents in November, you are already late. We disagree. Some of the best products and bargains can be found right up until Christmas eve if you are willing to take the gamble.

Thanks to TrendLife, you don’t need to take that gamble as we have created our very own ‘Top 50 Christmas gift guide“ online.

You would have already seen the Top 25 in this issue but here is the very best of the rest that our team have picked for you to think about.

First up at No.50 is everybody’s favourite Italian liqueur Disaronno has teamed up with another Italian favourite to bring us mere mortals the ultimate drinks cabinet addition.

The iconic bottle, complete with its unmistakable squared bottle top, will be made over by the Italian fashion house Moschino.

The Moschino Loves Disaronno bottle has been designed in the fashion house’s signature style, adorned with its classic heart pattern in a bold black and red colour palette.

The very best of the rest A SELECTION OF THE GIFTS THAT MADE THE TOP 50

0 5 . o N

47 . o N 1 3 .

No

9

o.2

N

No.

46

No.38

40 This distinctive limited edition combines the characteristics of Moschino with the unmistakable silhouette of the Disaronno bottle making it the ideal gift for fashionistas to find under the Christmas tree.

Number 47 on our Christmas list is the Maliko Gulch from Maui Jim who offer a wide selection of lightweight fashion and performance styles.

Having had the opportunity to look through the amazing collection firsthand, our personal favourite is the Maliko Gulch which is a rework of the classic aviator frame.

Yes, it is November and we agree, there is not much sunshine here in lovely old England but… and it is a very big but, we all love holidays and jetting away to hotter climates around the festive season and new year.

Landing in time for Christmas is the Razer Kraken Over Ear E-Panda Hooligan Headphones. Yes it is a mouth full and like most hooligans, these badboys make a lot of noise – the good kind that is.

These amazing set of headphones get their name from Eric “E-Panda” Hernandez who is the older brother and session drummer to Bruno Mars and his own band – The Hooligans.

Eric started drumming at the age of 4 and has been playing professionally since the age of 10. His years of experience had him revered as a master of all music styles be it soul, funk, reggae or rock and has allowed him to share the stage on drums with artistes the likes of Sting, Cee-lo Green and Travie McCoy. Read our indepth review online to see why they walked away with four stars.

ENTERTAINMENT MUSIC / TELEVISION / RADIO / PAUL WALKER

PAUL WALKER 1973 - 2013 FATHER, ACTOR, HUMANITARIAN

all hail the king - Talking bad 46

Year of the yeezus - 47

46

THE GREATEST TV SHOW EVER? So it is all over. And we can have our lives back. It has been an amazing five year ride and now it has come to an end in such spectacular fashion, can we dare ask the question, is Breaking Bad the greatest show ever?

No. To be frank, it is not the greatest show EVER but is it the best show of our generation? YES.

White is diagnosed with Stage III cancer and given a prognosis of two years left to live. With a new sense of fearlessness based on his medical condition, and a desire to secure his family’s financial security, White chooses to enter a dangerous world of drugs and crime and ascends to power in this world.

Breaking Bad is up there with The Sopranos, The Wire, Dexter and Game of Thrones, but it is all about the finale which was able to give viewers the perfect ending a show of this importance deserves.

The series explores how a fatal diagnosis such as White’s releases a typical man from the daily concerns and constraints of normal society and follows his transformation from mild family man to a kingpin of the drug trade.

Incase you somehow missed it, “Breaking Bad” follows protagonist Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a chemistry teacher who lives in New Mexico with his wife (Anna Gunn) and teenage son (RJ Mitte) who has cerebral palsy.

No spoilers here. You have to buy the Blu-Ray (HD is a must) to see how this story ends. You will not be disappointed as the Walter White experience is a must.

Toddla T & Roses Gabor

PANDORA’S BOX

“Ah-head of my time, sometimes years out...

So the powers that be won’t let me get my ideas out”.

Kanye West 2005

SAME MADD RAPPER? Kanye West had a lot to say over the last year. From his favourite topic – himself – to his memorable comments on music, fashion and creativity, Yeezy has been one of the most talked about artists of 2013.

Love him or hate him, what cannot be denied is his ability. One of the best producers amongst his peers, the Chicago college dropout has given us what most critics say is the best album of the year in Yeezus. We loved it here in the office like the critics but something is still a miss.

The only problem is the whole album seemed like a side project if you had been watching/listening to the many interviews Kanye gave throughout the year. First there was the interview with Zane Lowe and then the viral hit with Sway.

In both interviews, Kanye seemed to be carrying a large bag of McCains on each shoulder but is this anything new?

While most of his complaints about the fashion and music industry are being viewed as rants to the casual viewer, anyone who has listened to some of his ‘classic’ work will know this is nothing new.

One of the biggest viral videos of 2013 was Marina Shifrin’s viral ‘An Interpretive Dance For My Boss Set To Kanye West’s Gone’.

About 16million of the 17millon viewers probably have never listen to the 2005 track off Kanye’s Late Registration album but if you take the time to listen to his second verse, you will see that Kanye is still the same Madd Rapper he was in 2005. More of the same in 2014 please Mr. West.

48

no.1 is she the

reason why kanye has becomesong

of 2013

#3

We all share the Same Love

Yes, this track did come out in 2012 but 2013 was the year of change for same sex marriages in the United States and if that movement had a unofficial soundtrack, ‘Same Love’ would be track 1. Relentless airplay has this hit third.

Seattle rapper Macklemore & producer/DJ Ryan Lewis teamed up with Mary Lambert to discuss LGBT rights. Another big year for the duo.

#1

Right in the Thicke of it

No track has created more headlines this year than Robin Thicke’s ‘Blurred Lines’.

The video has caused outrage amongst mothers of teenage boys. The lyrics has feminists blogging at 120 words per minute and the song had Marvin Gaye’s family taking Robin to Judge Judy.

It will be a happy Christmas for Robin and producer Pharrell Williams.

Not bad for a NERD

#2

Technically, this song should be no.1 as it was the only song in the UK this year to sell over 1,000,000 copies but as you know, this list is not just about sales.

The collaboration of Daft Punk, Pharrell Williams and legend Nile Rodgers on ‘Get Lucky’ proved the world that house is not dead. Look for President Obama’s version.

52

Hello boys a quick review of the xbox one & ps3 minus the techie stuff - by Lee hall

Since Sega gave up making consoles and Nintendo decided to focus on the child friendly WII, Microsoft and Sony have been battling to win the title of next-gen heavyweight console of the year. With both consoles out in time for Christmas, we look at which one you should throw your hard earned cash at.

With the eighth generation of video game consoles facing stiff competition from games on smartphones, tablets, and Smart TVs, both Sony and Microsoft have their work cut out for them. If we start with design, the Xbox One literally put the box in Xbox, with a large black rectangular shape that has been compared to an oversized 80s VCR unit.

PS4 is smaller in size compared to the Xbox One and a little bit sleeker thanks to its angular shape and two-halves design.

Gamers are already worried that a small machine means overheating issues but Sony are confident that this issue will not raise its ugly head.

Xbox One will cost £429 in the U.K. A premium because it comes with the 1080p Kinect camera in the box meaning no frantic queueing on boxing day to get one. The PS4 is considerably cheaper at £349 but does not come with a camera in the box. Separately, the PS4 camera will cost £54 so PlayStation 4 is still cheaper even when the console and camera are combined.

With wallets tighter than ever, Sony may have a distinct advantage this holiday season. The problem is price is only one thing to consider. Something more important is the launch line-up of games.

At launch, the Xbox One offers a better selection of games than the PS4. Dead Rising 3, Forza Motorsport 5 and Zoo Tycoon are games we’d rather play over Killzone: Shadowfall. Several of the games we thought would be PS4 launch exclusives have been delayed until 2014.

One of the most anticipated next-gen games is Titanfall, a game made by some of the sharpest minds behind the Call of Duty franchise. It’s apparently going to be a PC/Xbox exclusive ‘forever’, so if you want it, you want an Xbox One. At this stage, it is fairly even. Both consoles have their pros and cons.

If I had to choose between the two, it would have to be the Playstation 4 at this time. Why I hear you ask?

Remote Play/Control with Vita This one only matter for PS Vita owners, but the PS4’s Remote Play is pretty neat. It lets you play full PS4 games on your Vita over a Wi-Fi connection.

Playstation controls Okay, this is a totally personal choice but the Playstation controller has always felt better in my hand. Having owned all previous versions of the Xbox and Playstation, nothing beats a PS controller.

DRM issues In the back of my mind, if I owned an Xbox One, I would always worry that Microsoft will do a 360 on their DRM policy.

54

new kid on the block

By Adam Tudor-Lane | @car_witter

Jaguar’s long anticipated, long overdue E-Type replacement is THE car of the moment. So we had to get our hands on one to see what all the fuss is about.

We tested the middle of the range F-Type S, its 3.0 litre supercharged engine produces 380 BHP and 460 Nm of Torque. Meaning the 1,614kg, all aluminum drop top shoots from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds, and on to a top speed of 171 MPH.

Ferrari Enzo said the E-Type was “The most beautiful car ever made” so its next of kin best be a looker. And boy is it that!

In many ways it’s a modern take on the E-Type, the way the front lights are mounted at the outermost corners, and the thin, delicate, slit like brake lights are a certain nod to the infamous classic.

This big cats rear haunches bulge out slightly, before pinching upward in a very ‘79 Corvette Stingray manner. A low, slightly sloping boot lid features an integrated spoiler which activates at 60 MPH, helping create an extra 120kg of down force. It can also be strategically deployed via a ‘poser’ button near the gear stick.

As soon as you press the bronze start button the F-Type roars into life, gauges sweep round and the 3.0 litre supercharged engine revs before calming back down to a purr. Press the throttle to the floor, and you are greeted with a deep raucous growl as the revs hit 4,000 and the Jag wobbles from side to side. It’s a bit addictive!

Now with this being the S model you have the Active Sports exhaust as standard normally a £1,630 option on the standard F-Type - meaning you have a clever little switch that reroutes the exhaust gasses; basically making it a straight through system. Buyers will have this switched on 99% of the time I reckon!

When activated the aural delight that ensues is simply astounding, you feel like you’re in a rally car. With each downshift it crackles and pops, the overrun is simply divine! Leaving the car in manual is best, first and second gear are the real head turners. It’s always worth downshifting just one too many to be swathed in those burbling notes.

With that amount of power, changing gear at the flick of a finger enables you to keep pace and accelerate onward blisteringly quickly.

If you are feeling lazy and want to leave the F-Type in full auto it’s still an excellent ‘box. Quick to change down at a moment’s notice when you push the ‘Go’ pedal all the way down.

Some have moaned about the automatic ZF gearbox in the F-Type…personally I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Steering is very direct with great weighting to it, for an even sharper response you can pull down on the ‘Dynamic Drive’ button.

This allows you to set the cars parameters to your suiting, we set everything to Dynamic. Throttle response becomes even sharper, along with the steering and suspension.

Weight distribution was high on Jaguars list when creating the F-Type, so much so that the battery and washer bottle are situated in the boot. Helping the Jag to have a weight distribution of 52/48 front to rear, and you really can feel how well balanced it is.

Under braking or acceleration the F-Type stays flat, no dipping or lifting at all.

Cornering is also pitch perfect with a minute amount of body roll, but the active dampers do a great job keeping the car stable.

Oh, and MPG isn’t the best, we averaged 12.1 over roughly 100 miles. Meaning it cost us – near enough – 50p a mile.

However I’m sure if you left it in full auto you would get nearer the 22 MPG Urban figure Jag quote, just don’t expect too much more!

Inside the F-Type everything is driver focused, Jaguar have pitched the car as a 1+1; meaning the passenger is purely

along for the ride. The whole dash is aimed toward the pilot, everything is within reach so you can focus on driving.

Our car was fitted with the performance seats, at £1,350 they are a rather pricey option but they really do look the part.

You are hugged and held in all the right places, making you feel part of the machine.

Quality is great, the two tone leather dash matched the seats, and the matt finish carbon fibre centre console trim was stunning.

There is one gripe I have with the interior though, the paddles. In a car costing upward of £67k they could have done something better than bronze effect plastic, our car had covered just over 4,000 miles but already the soft touch coating was turning sticky…either that or the previous driver had been eating toffees…

Conclusion: At £67,000 the F-Type V6 S is rather pricey, if it was £20k less it would be an absolute bargain. But it seems JLR have priced it to attract premium customers only, which is a shame as it could really blow the competition out of the water at £50k for the S model.

All that being said the F-Type is superb. That noise simply gets under your skin, you want more of it, you find excuses just to start it up, it’s infectious. A test drive WILL leave you wanting one.

Very rarely do manufacturers get it right first time, but with the F-Type they have done just that!

We would like to say a big thank you to Stratstone Jaguar Milton Keynes for the loan of the F-Type. Northfield Drive, Northfield, Milton Keynes, MK15 0EB | Tel: 01908 350 819 Email: sales@miltonkeynes.stratstone-jaguar.co.uk

36 Monthly Payments of Customer Deposit Term of Agreement

£699.00 £14,999.00 37 Months

On The Road Cash Price

£58,520.00

Total Amount of Credit

£43,521.00

Interest Charges

£5,719.33

Option to Purchase Fee†

£295

Option to Purchase Payment - G.M.F.V (Guaranteed Minimum Future Value)

£24,076.33

Total Amount Payable

£64,534.33

Fixed Rate of Interest

5.59%

Representative 5.9% APR AT THE END OF THE FINANCE AGREEMENT YOU HAVE 3 OPTIONS: 1 - RENEW 2 - RETAIN 3 - RETURN