VAMP ISSUE24

VAMP MAGAZINE – LUXURY NOV/’16

ISSUE

#24

>47 THE REALITY. OF FASHION WEEK An insight into the reality of Fashion Week >>

Make your coat count this season. pg40 >>

A a five-story Romanesque revival warehouse in NYC’s trendy TriBeCa neighbourhood. >>

fine watches

fine watches

fine jewellery

fine jewellery

The Point, Sliema calvinklein.com

I

twist

061.02.006 CKJ Malta VAMP FW16.indd All Pages

in #mycalvins

Bella Hadid, Model

24/10/16 15:27

A SPECI AL COLLEC T ION BY GIGI HADID

061.07.001 MAL VAMP MAG 420x270 FW16.indd All Pages

#TOMMYXGIGI TOMMY.COM

REPUBLIC STREET, VALLETTA BAYSTREET, ST JULIAN’S THE POINT, SLIEMA

21/10/16 16:58

carlagrima.com. +356 9923 5400. 12, Giorgio Locano str., Iklin.

carlagrima.

carlagrimastudio

carlagrima.com. +356 9923 5400. 12, Giorgio Locano str., Iklin.

carlagrima.

carlagrimastudio

“ Everything you need to know about fashion, culture and lifestyle, right here, right now. �

24

ISSUE_24

B

ased on Renaissance Romantic, this November issue is the ideal time to go behind the scenes of the world’s most notorious Fashion Weeks to explore the good, the bad, and the beautiful.‘Grey Ambition’ is our season fashion focus, with gorgeous materials and ideal colours to juxtapose the soft neutral. A moody coat feature brings us different options to get winter’s most important garment just right.

Gorgeous jewellery is abound, just in time for that Christmas wish list, bringing us exciting new shimmery things and lovely lady luxury watches. Absolutely not to be missed this issue is Kurt Arrigo’s spectacular images of the 2016 Rolex Middle Sea Race and more.

10. SEXY FACES

This year’s most coveted luxury lady watches… just in time for the gift season!

14. WINTER IS COMING

This season’s must-have do and see line-up.

30. FASHION: GREY AMBITION

Luxury silks, cosy wools and boxy minimal shapes influenced by minimal city interiors.

40. HOT COAT

Make your coat count this season.

51. IT’S THE SMALL THINGS

Five (amazingly simple) things to do that might make your life a lot better.

52. 21ST CENTURY RENAISSANCE WO(MAN)

The exploration of what humans find instinctively sexy in other humans.

58. ART: ALL HE NEEDS IS FOOD

Romanian artist Dan Cretu’s quirky images have attracted over 100,000 Tumblr follows and almost 6,000 Instagram followers. This guy is good!

66. A VISUAL JOURNEY

Rolex Middle Sea Race 2016 by Photographer Kurt Arrigo.

78. ARCHITECTURE: TRIPLEX REVIVAL

On the cover: Etho Maria from Diamonds International, Valletta.

Model: Jess Worley @Noticed Photography: Matthew Spiteri Hair: TONI&GUY artistic team Penelope Tabone Makeup: Jennifer Dimech

Editorial VAMP Editorial Team Creative Director Chris Psaila Design Chris Psaila Jonathan Bajada Fashion Editor Carla Grima Photographers Alan Carville Kurt Arrigo Kurt Paris Matthew b Spiteri Patricia Parinejad Stylists Carla Grima VAMP team

Sales Manager Sam Psaila 7788 0300 Contributors Alex Lapira Alina Anisimova Amelia Bianchi Carlton Agius, Franks Jennifer Dimech Jonathan Zammit Lisa Borain Martina Zammit Maempel ODA Patricia Urquiola Penelope Tabone Stefan Hogan Talitha Dimech Victor Vella

This magazine is published by [ V ] PUBLICATIONS

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

All rights reserved. Dates, information and prices are believed to be correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor the publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that the organisations and firms mentioned are reputable.

The editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfill their obligations under all circumstances.

Copyright 2016

A triplex penthouse designed by ODA New York for a five-story Romanesque revival warehouse in NYC’s trendy TriBeCa neighbourhood.

89. CUISINE: AGE OLD

Sophisticatedly delicious dishes by the creative Corinthia Palace Chefs.

96. IL SERENO

An ultra-modern property designed by Patricia Urquiola, nestled on the banks of the idyllic Lake Como.

108. BEAUTY: FACE RE-FRESH

A renewed celebration of individuality in hair and make-up. facebook.com/ vampmagazine malta

LUXURY ISUUE 09

SEXY FACES

There ’s some thing irre sistibly eleg a nt a bout a luxury la dy watc h. VAMP bring s y ou the m ost c ov e te d for this y e a r’s wish lists, the world ov e r.

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SEXY FACES

1

Cartier Ballon Bleu 33 mm â‚Ź6,800 Available from Diamonds International Valletta T: 2203 5202 and Diamonds International Portomaso T: 2203 5201

LUXURY ISUUE 011

SEXY FACES

2

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Medium Duetto â‚Ź12,000 Available from Diamonds International Valletta T: 2203 5202 and Diamonds International Portomaso T: 2203 5201

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SEXY FACES

3

Omega Constellation Quartz 27 mm â‚Ź7,550 Available from Diamonds International Valletta T: 2203 5202, Pjazza Tigne T: 2203 5207 and Portomaso T: 2203 5201

L U X U R Y I S U U E 013

UPDATE

WINTER IS COMING.

GENEROSTY: AMPLIFIED

This season’s must-have do and see line-up.

Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury Scotch whisky, has partnered with premium audio producers LSTN Sound Co., to craft a range of unique whisky and music accessories to celebrate their shared passion for craftsmanship, style and generosity. The initiative – Generosity: Amplified – features a range of activity aimed to raise funds for Starkey Hearing Foundation, including an innovative limited edition Chivas 12 Year Old gift tin, a line of handcrafted headphones, and a custom-designed luxury record console. A limited run of headphones are now available to buy from www. lstnsound.co, and to find out more about the partnership between Chivas Regal and LSTN Sound Co., visit www. chivas.com/LSTN. Chivas Regal is marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Co. Ltd. Tel: 2381 4400.

SCHOLL’S POCKET BALLERINA

ARMANI JEANS COLLECTION LAUNCH Franchisees of Tommy Hilfiger, Hilfiger Denim, Armani Jeans & Calvin Klein Jeans, Trilogy Ltd has just hosted an event in celebration of the new Armani Jeans Autumn/Winter 2016 Collection. The event took place at Armani Jeans, The Point, the first outlet of the brand to open its doors in Malta. The Collection features classic black pieces, faux fur elements and camo influences, with pops of colour throughout to make a statement.

The brand’s denim line continues to be its foundation, with improved quality and the introduction of updated fits, styles and colours.

For those who want to give their feet the indescribable sensation of comfort without foregoing the typical glamorous and sassy design of a ballerina pump, the answer is Scholl’s Pocket Ballerina. Practical and innovative, the pumps can be hidden in a handbag and brought out whenever feet are tired, in need of some relief.

These foldable ballerina pumps feature a padded insole and elastic upper and is the perfect final touch to any look while bestowing a sense of well-being whilst walking. Keep a pair of Pocket Ballerina pumps in your handbag as the SOS solution after a stressful day and endless appointments, when all you want to do is kick off your high heels, especially when driving.

PRADA L’HOMME ET LA FEMME The instinctive, human, highly crafted and boundlessly imaginative approach that Prada ascribes to the making of fragrance is everywhere present in the ‘olfactory maps’ for both La Femme Prada and L’Homme Prada. Designed to take the wearer on a voyage through place, memory and time, somehow there appears a sensual meeting point for these distinct female and male fragrances to consummate an aesthetic relationship through experimentation and tradition. Exclusively distributed by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery Ltd. tel: 2133 1553.

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UPDATE

VALENTINO UOMO INTENSE For a man with a charismatic allure and an assertive dominant masculinity with a distinctive aura. An eau de perfume concentration with a long lasting trail to enhance a man’s everyday charisma or for a special occasion. A suave leathery fragrance, a deep, unforgettable olfactory signature: black leather and suave vanilla accords.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery Ltd. Tel: 2133 1553.

CAROLINA HERRERA: GOOD GIRL It’s not enough to turn heads — jaws must drop, glances transform into stares. When Good Girl clicks her heels, she has the city at her feet.

Her presence has a way of lingering over space and time. It flirts with the unconscious, becoming a memory impossible to shake. Exclusively distributed by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery Ltd. Tel: 2133 1553.

TRUSSARDI DONNA EAU DE TOILETTE Trussardi Donna Eau de Toilette is the freshest version yet of the fragrance launched in 2011 to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Italian fashion house and the iconic eighties fragrance. Trussardi Donna Eau de Toilette is part of the oriental flowers olfactory family and was created by the famous perfumer Nathalie Lorson. Trussardi products are exclusively distributed by X-Treme Co Ltd. Tel: 2388 2300.

MARSHALL WOBURN FREE EYE TEST If you’re bored with your same old look, define your style with a new pair of specs. Choose the perfect frame to suit your personal style and get a free eye test (worth €25) with every purchase of a Vogue, Oakley or Ray-Ban frame, or sighted sunglasses. This offer is available from leading opticians. For more information on participating outlets visit eyewear.com.mt, call 23811500 or email info@classoptical.com.

The Marshall Kilburn is a compact stout-hearted hero with a well-balanced audio which boasts a clear midrange and extended highs for a sound that is both articulate and pronounced. The analogue knobs allows you to fine tune the controls to your personal preferences while the guitar-influenced leather strap enables easy and stylish travel. Bluetooth compatibility and the 3.5mm jack input means easy connectivity, while the simple amplifier styled construction with classic Marshall logo means it will look as good as it sounds.

A built-in battery life of up to 20 hours means the jams will be kicking for as long as you are.

Find it at iCentre, www.icentre.com.mt

NEW WINTER MENU For the coming months, the team at Madliena Lodge is focused on making their patrons feel as though they are in a ‘home away from home’. This will be reflected in the dining experience - from dynamic dishes to attentive service. The newly-launched winter menu promises plenty of home-style dishes, and early favourites including the wild boar lasagne, pork belly and linguini. To book call 2138 9000.

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SLIEMA 46-48 Tower Road Tel. 21 341 961

STYLE FILE

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M I X U P A C A S UA L WO RK L O O K WI T H S OM E RUG G E D N UA N C E S.

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1. Shoes from Hilfiger Denim, €129.90. 2. Ray-Ban glasses from Tuaco Opticians, €124. 3. Jacket from Tommy Hilfiger, €249.

4. Oakley glasses from Vision Opticians Birkirkara, €133. 5. Daniel Wellington watch from Sunlab, €219. 6. Henry watch from Sunlab, €219. 7. Diesel watch from Sunlab, €159. 8. Jumper from Armani Jeans, €135. 9. Boots from Armani Jeans, €165.

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AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT DEBENHAMS TIGNÉ

FASHION

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S E XY, E L E G A N T A N D FEMININE FOR THIS WI N T E R .

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1. Armani Jeans boots, €320. 2. Monsoon dress, €230. 3. Debenhams jumpsuit, €95. 4. M&CO dress, €64.50. 5. Ray-ban glasses from Vision Opticians Fgura, €140. 6. M&CO dress, €79.50. 7. Cocinelle bag, €248. 8. Cocinelle bag, €248.

9. Monsoon clutch bag, €29.90.

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11, TOWER ROAD, SLIEMA

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I T ’S A L L A B O U T PAT T E RN S PA RT I C U L A RLY FLORALS FOR THE ROM A N T I C L O O K .

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1. Cocinelle bag, €248. 2. Vogue glasses from Optica Opticians Sliema, €83. 3. Oasis dress, €70. 4. Hand bag from Armani Jeans, €402.50. 5. Monsoon dress, €218. 6. M&CO dress, €94.50. 7. Boots from Tommy Hilfiger, €119. 8. Monsoon clutch bag, €45.90.

L U X U R Y I S U U E 023

FASHION

SO FINE.

GB Jewellers is your one stop shop for all jewellery and gift needs - from small earrings in sterling silver to certified diamonds and beautiful diamond jewellery.

GB Jewellers also offers a wide range of pearls; fresh water cultured pearls, Japanese Akoya pearls, and also amazing South Sea natural pearls.

Find various watch brands and styles, as well as gifts for all occasions.

Apart from a vast selection of jewellery, GB Jewellers also offers jewellery and watch repair and services.

Find everything you need and more at GB Jewellers.

451, 453, TRIQ FLEUR-DE-LYS, B’KARA BKR 9061 T: 21 499 679 E: KEGB@VOL.NET.MT 156A, THE STRAND GZIRA T: 21 322 889

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SERVICES Make your dreams come true by creating your own jewellery design. Imagine your custom ring, necklace, earrings or bracelet. Your special creation is available in 18K yellow, white and rose gold.

Cannot find what you are looking for?

Bring us a picture and we will make your perfect jewellery. Engraving and repair services also available.

Birkirkara | 451,453, Fleur-De-Lys Road | 21499679 Gzira | 156A, The Strand | 21322889 Valletta | Micallef Watch Dealer, 53, St. Zachary Street | 21239442 www.gbjewellery.com | info@kemalta.com GBJewellersMalta

TOWER ROAD, SLIEMA | ZACHARY STREET, VALLETTA |

/OASISFASHIONSMALTA |

@OASISFASHIONMALTA

TA

Trussardi Gold Watch Price: €790 Available from all Sunlab outlets

FASHION

Michael Kors Necklace Price: €109 Available from all Sunlab outlets

Michael Kors Necklace Price: €129 Available from all Sunlab outlets

ALL T H AT SHIMMERS T O P S E L L I N G J E WE L L E RY P I E C E S THIS YEAR.

Eclat Bracelet Price: €110 Available from Diamonds International Valletta, Piazza Tigne and Portomaso

Pesavento Ring Price: €410 Available from Diamonds International Valletta, Piazza Tigne and Portomaso

L U X U R Y I S U U E 027

FASHION

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INDULGE IN M ON O C H ROM AT I C, WH E T H E R I T S S I LV E R WI T H B L AC K , O R T H E N E W S I LV E R WI T H COPPER LOOK.

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1. Obaku watch from Hebe, €170. 2. Snowman charm from Pandora, €49. 3. 2 jewels necklace from Sunlab, €44.

4. Skagen bracelet from Sunlab, €59. 5. 2 Jewels earrings from Sunlab, €29. 6. Breil watch from Sunlab, €195.

7. Breil ring from Sunlab, €52. 8. Breil necklace from Sunlab, €78.

028 LUXURY ISSUE

Mexx top, €34.99. Mexx dress, €24.99.

Carla Grima Atelier scarf, €75. Michael Kors necklace from Sunlab, €109.

Fossil bracelet from Sunlab, €49.

Giorgio Armani sunglasses from Optika Opticians Sliema, €279.

L UX U RY S I L KS, C O S Y WO O L S A N D B OXY MINIMAL SHAPES - GET I N S P I RE D

BY A U T U M N STYLES INFLUE NCED

BY M I N I M A L CITY I N T E RI O R S AND DELIGHT IN THE ROM A N C E O F IT ALL.

G R E Y ambition

Opticians Sliema, €279.

Photography: Kurt Paris Styling: Carla Grima Make up: Talitha Dimech Hair: TONI&GUY artistic team Penelope Tabone Model: Jess Worley @Noticed Models Assistant: Amelia Bianchi Carla Grima Atelier silk top, €170. Max Mara wool trousers, €165. Fossil earrings from Sunlab, €49.

Max Mara top, €195.

Max Mara silk skirt, €450. Fossil earrings from Sunlab, €49.

Roccobarocco watch from GB Jewellers, €86.

Calzedonia socks, €3.95.

Aldo shoes, €79.

Hilfiger Denim knitted top, €99.90. Monsoon velvet jacket, €120. Monsoon velvet trousers, €108. Calzedonia socks, €3.95.

Aldo shoes, €69. Giorgio Armani sunglasses from Eyeland Pama, €257.

GB Jewellers bracelet, €42.

Michael Kors bangle from Sunlab, €119. Michael Kors ring from Sunlab, €89. Michael Kors watch from Sunlab, €249.

Absolut Elyx Vodka.

Warehouse jumpsuit, €95. Oasis top, €41.

Oasis scarf, €27.

Henry London watch from Sunlab, €219.

GB Jewellers earrings, €125. Coccinelle bag, €360. Aldo shoes, €85. [ Left ] Calvin Klein jacket, €249.90. Calvin Klein leggings, €129. Fossil necklace (top) from Sunlab, €59. Fossil necklace (bottom) from Sunlab, €49. Fossil earrings from Sunlab, €49. Fossil rings (set) from Sunlab, €59.

Armani Jeans top, €197.50.

Armani Jeans trousers, €247.50. Armani Jeans gloves, €165. Coccinelle bag, €260.

Aldo shoes, €69.

GB Jewellers bracelet, €45.

GB Jewellers earrings, €125.

Carla Grima Atelier dress, €210.

Carla Grima Atelier scarf, €80.

Fossil earrings from Sunlab, €49.

Fossil bracelet (top) from Sunlab, €49. Fossil bracelet (middle) from Sunlab, €49. Fossil bracelet (bottom) from Sunlab, €59.

‘ E S C AP E R O U T E ’

‘ R O U G E R E B E LL I O N ’

Keep your office look ready and pack a few casual accessories for after work drinks. Layering a neutral knit or a printed scarf is a quick way to take you from a day in the office to a casual aperitivo.

Tones of Bordeaux are a must this season. Stick to darker shades to stay away from bright Christmas references and pair with leather accessories for a younger grungy style.

Shoes (€129.90), Belt (€59.90), Socks (€12.99), Bag (€119.90), all from Tommy Hilfiger. Slim chino (€99.90), Scarf (€44.90), Jumper (€119), Shirt (€79.90), all from Hilfiger Denim.

Hat (€12.99), Gloves (€17.99), Jacket (€69.99), Black polo neck (€14.99), Jumper (€49.99), Trousers (€59.99), all from Mexx. Tommy Hilfiger shoes, €139.90.

038 LUXURY ISSUE

Photography: Matthew B Spiteri Styling: Carla Grima

FASHION

FASHION

‘ CO O L C O N S E R V A T I V E ’

‘MIDNIGHT TONES’

For a daytime outfit that will definitely turn heads pair a chunky knit with a contemporary tailored pair of trousers. A chic look that balances comfort with style.

Leather blacks and navy tones make for an elegant night time outfit. Make sure to keep your navy dark and contrast with pops of red or cherry to make an impact.

Trousers (€165), Scarf (€99), Sweater (€189), all from Max Mara. Aldo shoes, €85.

Waist coat (€287.50), Bag (€97.50), Trousers (€125), Gloves (€122.50), Top (€197.50), Shoes (€190), all from Armani Jeans.

L U X U R Y I S U U E 039

Photography: Matthew B Spiteri Model: Madeleine @ Supernova Make-up: Franks Hair: TONI&GUY artistic team Alex Lapira, Plaza Sliema Salon Styling: Carla Grima

Charles & Ron coat, €850.

Calzedonia tights, €9.95.

Aldo shoes, €85. Marshall Kilburn Speaker from iCentre, €499. Jewellery Set designed for Diamonds International, available from Diamonds International Valletta, Portomaso, Piazza Tigné.

Tom Dixon Melt Pendant Lights, Cityscapes Ferm Living Pot, all from Eclecticist, Attard.

Trench coat, €229.90. crop top, €38 briefs, €28. all from Calvin Klein. Calzedonia tights, €14.95.

Aldo shoes, €69. Ray-Ban frames from Vision Opticians Qormi, €149.

Marshall Kilburn speaker from iCentre, €270. Nanis jewellery set from the Trasformista Collection from Diamonds International Valletta & Portomaso.

Pendant lights, from Eclecticist, Attard.

Armani Jeans coat, €432.50.

Calzedonia socks, €5.95. Jewellery set; MiMi jewellery set from the Shelley Collection, available from Diamonds International Valletta, Portomaso, Piazza Tigné.

Tom Dixon Fan Chair from Eclecticist, Attard.

Max Mara coat, €869.

Fope jewellery set from the Flex it Solo Collection, availableDiamonds International Valletta, Portomaso, Piazza Tigné, and HEBE - Malta International Airport Airside. Calzedonia tights, €6.95.

Bisazza Street Sliema T. 21 34 60 80

MERCHANTS STREET VALLETTA T. 21 233 221

REPUBLIC STREET VALLETTA T. 21 241 633

THE STRAND SLIEMA T. 21 310 811

NAXXAR ROAD B’KARA T. 21 491 655

ZABBAR ROAD FGURA T. 21 802 004

04

FASHION

THE REALITY OF FASHION WEEK.

F

ashion Week is known as the ultimate fashion festival.

That’s where designers bring the world’s fashion royalty and celebrities together to present their hand-stitched exclusive garments that will be desired by consumers all over the world and featured in the leading editorial glossies. Right? Except it’s a bit more complicated than that.

The shows are an opportunity for designers to showcase their couture creations. But even though promotion is a significant part of the business, it’s important to note that the show is also attended by buyers, who would

While everyone knows the top designer names, celebrities and It girls who rule the front rows of Fashion Week, few outside the industry know the truth behind the amount of work it takes to put together the shows every season.

Alina Anisimova speaks to the behindthe-scenes talents to discover the details. Words: Alina Anisimova

purchase the clothes to sell in their stores.

“Fashion Week as such is for those buying meetings”, says Martina Zammit Maempel, Wholesale Executive at Roland Mouret at Paris Fashion Week. “It’s not the glamour; it’s to do with the buys, and that’s where the money is,” she explains.

It should perhaps be noted that buyers also visit designers’ showrooms following the show.

While the fashion show is usually a designer’s vision in full effect, the buying meeting is the commercial and wearable interpretation of that vision.

“In fact, these days, many buyers don’t even bother to show up for the show; sometimes

they don’t have time,” Martina reveals.

“The show is mainly there for brands to kind of get photographs, and the more celebrities they have in their show, the more paparazzi will come, and the more that these pictures will circulate the world.”

Wholesale Executive is one of the most crucial positions in the fashion industry, and this job is coveted by fashionistas - attending fashion shows, travelling the world while representing the brand, rubbing shoulders with the bigname designers. It all sounds like a dream.

But, despite how glamorous we might think the career is, this perception can be far from reality. >>

L U X U R Y I S U U E 047

FASHION

“On the day of the show you have to make sure the collection goes to the venue and everything is good,” Martina explains. “Then once the guests start coming you usually are part of the team who welcomes them because you represent the brand. Front rows are usually for more important people, and then standing is for people who asked to come to the show… like I will stand,” she laughs. “The crew always stand because there’s never any place for us to sit.”

Once the show finishes, the work of wholesaling begins. “You just pack up the collection and take it to the showroom to prepare it for the following day, and then the buying starts.”

While a fashion show takes from ten to fifteen minutes, buying meetings would easily take an hour and a half each.

“We have like 5 meetings a day, and you always have to look very presentable, and from eight to eight you are giving buyers a brief overview of the collection and working on what their buy is going to be. So you don’t have any time to attend any other show.

“People only see Fashion Week from a press perspective - these shows and these women looking beautiful, but it’s hard work. Last year, we were six girls and hired this beautiful flat in Paris, and we had to carry the mannequins and furniture up the staircase. It was horrible and not glamorous at all,” Martina says, smiling.

Martina didn’t get a shining moment right away. She found a way into her dream job after hundreds of plainly ignored job applications and one year of unpaid internship. Far from then, Martina is proud of the achievement. “I think you have to have a certain character to do any fashion job. You

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really have to go through a lot. But, once you are there, it’s a really good feeling.”

Carlton Agius, Creative and Personal Assistant Before Yves Saint Laurent started a fashion revolution, he was working as Christian Dior’s assistant, and later took over the couture house. Creative assistant is a massive behindthe scenes force which keeps the fashion industry moving.

Carlton Agius is a creative and personal assistant at Charles&Ron, and an example of a talent who works behind the scenes of the brand. Ask any fashion designer how they manage to manifest themselves while balancing daily responsibilities - from dayto-day meetings with different clients to managing the retails shops - and most will say they couldn’t do it without a personal assistant.

A fashion collection is not the product of a single mind, and Carlton plays a major role in conceptualising and designing the clothing and accessory collections.

Working for established designers close to influential fashion figures sounds like a dream, but it’s even more thrilling to do it during Fashion Week season. “It’s exciting being part of Fashion Week, especially in New York.

There’s always something happening in the streets: fashion shows, celebrity sightings, photoshoots. The list is endless,” Carlton says.

“Apart from the city madness, we’re very busy preparing ourselves for our show.”

Working side-by-side with designers, Carlton is always ready to lend a pair of hands or give a second opinion. “My average day during Fashion Week always starts with a good breakfast; it’s the time of the day where as

a team we plan the day ahead and make a schedule for all the meetings, events and other work related activities,” he explains.

“After breakfast we’re out for the day, carrying out models’ castings and fittings, holding meetings or attending fashion shows and presentations.” Carlton describes the process of casting and fitting as very stressful, yet points out that it’s one of the most interesting aspects building up to the big night. “We spend long days seeing hundreds of models and fitting clothes to the models’ bodies to have the perfect fits.”

Working on a Fashion Week might be tiring and the chaos behind the catwalk can easily turn into a nightmare. But it’s not all horrific. “During the previous four seasons we attended some big shows. Some of my favourite events were the Manolo Blahnik’s book launch for ‘Fleeting Gestures and Obsessions Book’ at Saks Fifth Avenue, and one of the Tommy Hilfiger runway shows, where I was standing very close to Anna Wintour and saw Kendall and Gigi walk the runway.”

When we think of working in fashion we tend to focus on the luxuries, rarely pausing to consider the amount of work that it takes to succeed. According to Agius, it’s not as glamorous as it seems. “It involves a lot of hard work, long hours and creativity. It’s much more than the fancy parties and travel.”

While working as a personal assistant means being close to influential fashion figures and plenty of international travel, the job is high pressure. “It’s challenging to come up with something completely new every season while keeping your clients happy. Time must be the biggest challenge we face in our job.” [ V ]

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MUSING

it’s the small things.

Five (amazingly simple) things to do that might make your life a lot better.

1. Keep it clean.

It’s hard to keep a whole house spic and span, particularly with the balance of work and family. However, according to “getting better at being human” writer David Cain, “making your morning coffee beside a shiny sink is an empowering, self-affirming experience.

Making coffee beside a dull sink, containing even a single dirty fork sitting in a puddle, is comparatively draining and dehumanising. Add a stray, bloated noodle or two and it becomes strangely life-destroying.”

Cain’s theory is that the first experience most people have of coming back into the world of living after a slumber is usually next to the sink. As a result, “one of two different people emerge from that coffee-making process, depending on the condition of the sink. One of them is sharp and ready for life. The other must fight his way to his desk from under some great existential weight, some grimy psychic debris that’s inseparable from the marooned soup remnants that greeted him this morning. The Sun is his enemy, not his ally, and all his work will be uphill today.”

2. Have money direct-debited into your savings account from your pay check each month.

endorphins. Exercise also improves your brain in the short term by raising your focus for two to three hours afterwards.

The effect of this is phenomenal, both in the short and long run. The immediate advantages are peace of mind and realistically living within your means.

The long term plus - it all adds up and before you know it, you have the ammunition to make a plan.

5. Put the phone down.

3. Be still.

Call it meditation or whatever you like, but being silent and still for just 15 minutes each day, whether it’s in the form of a nap or literally just sitting still in a quiet place, will help calm you to keep you focused. We are so used to doing something at all times that it will feel bizarre at first, but just try it for 2 weeks and see how it goes.

4. Exercise right before anything big.

With all the means of communication these days, our phones are constantly dinging, binging, bonging, ringing. To our brain, it’s the equivalent adrenaline kick to receiving a letter in the post box every minute. That’s seriously tiring for our brains.

It’s near impossible to hear those messages coming in and not take a look.

So either disable your notifications or make a point of going through times when you place your phone out of reach.

It just has to be in a place where you have to get up to look at it. Only when you look for a device which you see ‘over there’ will it occur to you that it is possible not to pick up and touch it every time you feel the urge to. [ V ]

Whether you’re going on a first date or to an important interview, exercising bumps up the production of your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters, called

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MUSING

21st Century Renaissance

VAMP explores what humans find instinctively sexy in other humans… and perhaps why.

Words: Lisa Borain

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M any like to believe that sexiness is in the eyes of the beholder and is inextricably linked to cultural norms. But let’s face it - some people are sexy to most, men and women alike. What is it that makes a person instinctively attractive on a very basic animalistic level?

Based on the theory that when a human is looking to have sex with another human, the vast majority of their natural, inevitable intent is to propagate the human species.

We’re not alone; animals are on the same mission (so are plants too, actually). Living organisms reproduce. That’s what they do.

And in most cases - the species that do it the most, survive the longest.

This is not to say that life is simply about breeding, but rather an insight into what we might be intuitively looking for sexually in another human - aware of it or not to keep the human species thriving and strong.

As a result of this innate desire to keep our species alive and flourishing, most sexually desirable aspects of a human are in one way or another linked to the best genetic match for them - in terms of fertility, resistance to disease, and strong genes that will allow for optimum performing humans.

Throughout the evolutionary process, our bodies and brains have become tuned to spot these genetic traits through physical features in the face and body.

MUSING For instance, clear, smooth skin shows signs of health, particularly in the faces of women. We’ve heard it numerous times; symmetrical faces are “beautiful”, mostly because they also look younger and healthier. Some research indicates that a symmetrical face is an indicator of genetics. In women, hip width and breast size are important factors in fertility, childbirth, and rearing, which definitely indicates an evolutionary connection.

A youthful look is attractive because fertility drops as we age, and evolutionarily speaking, humans wouldn’t want to mate with someone who can’t bear their children.

Studies have shown that ovulating heterosexual women prefer faces with masculine traits associated with increased exposure to testosterone during key developmental stages, such as a broad forehead, relatively longer lower face, prominent chin and brow, chiseled jaw and defined cheekbones.

Body fat percentage is an indication of how well an immune system works. As a result, a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 20.85 has been determined as the most attractive weight for a woman, while the perfect man should also have body fat of around 12%.

While humans don’t have pheromones (chemical attractants secreted by animals to find mates), smell does play a role in how attracted we are to someone. Studies have found that we can find our immune system match (whose genes complement ours, leading to healthier babies) by their smell.

In recent years, scientists have discovered that there is a link between finger length and the levels of testosterone that a man was exposed to while still in the womb. The longer the ring finger is in comparison with the index finger, the more testosterone was present. A study at Oxford University discovered that in these cases, the men were more likely to be more promiscuous. Not great for long-term stability and fidelity, but still good propagators… and perhaps inexplicably sexy.

It’s hard to tell how many women in the world are natural blondes (we can’t compare Scandinavia to Europe), but it’s estimated that 80% of British blondes die their hair. The penchant for women to become blonde has stumped scientists, including Darwin, who was unable to find the answer to this, even after many decades of trying.

According to Peter Frost of St Andrews University, “The usual pattern of too many males and too few females was reversed among ancestral Europeans. Men were exposed to a higher risk of hunting mortality while limiting their ability to provide for more than one wife. With fewer men, women had to compete for a limited supply of potential husbands. It may be that bright colours stimulate sexual attraction in the brain. When an individual is faced with potential mates of equal value, he or she will tend to select the one that stands out from the crowd.”

Another compelling reason for the preference of blondes over brunettes was put forth by Dr V.S. Ramachandran, head of the Centre for Brain and Cognition, University of California: “I suggest that gentlemen prefer blondes in order to enable them to detect the early signs of parasitic infestation [disease] and ageing - both of which indirectly reduce fertility and offspring viability.”

It’s definitely worth considering that while we may carry an evolutionary instinct, progression must have kept our instincts up with the times. The aforementioned descriptions are all based on physical survival; all extremely relevant to the time when humans needed physical strength to survive. We needed to outrun our prey, live through harsh conditions, and have a powerful immune system when disease was rife.

Nowadays, survival in developed countries is not necessarily physical. It’s largely about monetary survival. You make money, you can pay rent and eat. You make more money, you can buy a bigger house and eat better, allowing your offspring sounder shelter, feeding them more nutrients. >>

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MUSING As a result, the brain power to earn a higher income plays a huge role in the sexiness of a human.

But how to detect intellect? According to researchers, psychologists and scientists, personal beliefs and physical appearance can indicate intelligence.

Everyone knows males are tempted to sleep around; it’s biologically ingrained in them to “spread their seeds”.

However, according to a study by CNN, those men who resist the urge and are committed to one sexual partner are actually smarter. The basis of this thought is that they’re thinking and acting out against historical human ways, which is a sign of intelligence.

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CNN wrote, “The same is not true of females; being monogamous does not deem them more intelligent because having one partner has always been advantageous to women, even thousands of years ago, meaning exclusivity is not a ‘new’ preference”. In the same study, it was also found that people who have liberal political views have higher IQs. The reasoning is that liberal beliefs go against humans’ evolutionary beliefs. In other words, being liberal would not have benefited our ancestors.

CNN quoted George Washington University leadership professor James Bailey: “The adoption of some evolutionarily novel ideas makes some sense in terms of moving the species forward. It also makes perfect

sense that more intelligent people - people with, sort of, more intellectual firepower are likely to be the ones to do that.

“These preferences may stem from a desire to show superiority or elitism, which also has to do with IQ. In fact, aligning oneself with ‘unconventional’ philosophies such as liberalism or atheism may be ways to communicate to everyone that you’re pretty smart,” CNN wrote.

According to Psychology Today, surprisingly people who use more psychoactive drugs are more intelligent. “Intelligent people don’t always do the right thing,” they write, “only the evolutionarily novel thing.”

MUSING

“THOSE WHO SMOKE A PACK OR MORE OF CIGARETTES A DAY AVERAGED AN IQ SEVEN AND A HALF POINTS LOWER THAN THAT OF THOSE WHO DO NOT SMOKE...”

According to a study conducted by National Child Development, “more intelligent children in the UK are more likely to grow up to consume psychoactive drugs than less intelligent children.”“Very bright individuals (with IQs above 125) are roughly threetenths of a standard deviation more likely to consume psychoactive drugs than very dull individuals,” wrote Psychology Today. They ran the same study in the US and found similar results.

On the other hand, the DailyMail reported that young people who smoke regularly are likely to have markedly lower intelligence levels than those who do not smoke, and, according to the study of 20,000 young adults, the heavier the smoker, the lower the IQ. “Those who smoke a pack or more of cigarettes a day averaged an IQ seven and a half points lower than that of those who do not smoke... Those who smoked more than a pack a day had particularly low IQs of around 90.”

The New York Times wrote about a landmark study published in 2007 in which it was found that oldest siblings are usually smarter, but it’s not because of genetics.

The findings showed that eldest children had a slight but significant edge in IQ - an average of three points over the closest sibling. It found that the difference was not because of biological factors, but the psychological interplay between the parents and children.

Being tall has been a heavily debated trait of smarter individuals, with studies that confirm the speculation.

According to a paper authored by University of Louisville professor Joanne Rowe, light-eyed individuals and even lighteyed animals “perform better at behaviours requiring delay, self-pacing, or non-reactors, while dark-eyed individuals and animals perform better at behaviours requiring speed, sensitivity or reactivity”.

Obesity seems to have a negative effect on IQ’s over time. The Telegraph reported one study’s findings based on a series of memory tests: “The new five-year study of more than 2,200 adults claims to have found a link between obesity and the decline in a person’s cognitive function. The research, conducted by French scientists, involved men and women aged between 32 and 62 taking four mental ability tests that were then repeated five years later.

“The researchers found that people with a Body Mass Index of 20 or less could recall 56% of words in a vocabulary test, while those who were obese, with a BMI of 30 or higher, could remember only 44%.

“The fatter subjects also showed a higher rate of cognitive decline when they were retested five years later: their recall dropped to 37.5%, whereas those with a healthy weight retained their level of recall.”

So ultimately, according to the aforementioned studies, tests and research, the ultimate sex bomb of the 21st century is a tall, slim, light-eyed, non-smoking, drugtaking, first-born, loyal liberal. Surprisingly easy to find! [ V ]

A Princeton study found, “As early as age 3 - before schooling has had a chance to play a role - and throughout childhood, taller children perform significantly better on cognitive tests”. This suggests that the intelligence is nature, not nurture, although they couldn’t explain the tall gene phenomenon.

Studies have shown that light-eyed people are more intelligent than dark, although dark-eyed individuals have a different set of strengths.

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BOYS TOYS LAMBO BIKE

The Viks GT Lamborghini bike by Velonia Bicycles is a mashup between an urban cruiser and an Italian supercar. The Lamborghini-influenced Viks ‘Gran Turismo’ has the same geometry and size as regular Viks bicycles, but the bike is now entirely made out of aluminium alloy, making it 40% lighter than regular models. viks.cc/viks-gt-lamborghini

BMW VISION NEXT 100 MOTORCYCLE

Labelled as the ‘great escape’, the BMW VISION NEXT 100 motorcycle creates a pure and unrestricted rider experience.

The motorbike uses an autonomous driving system, but primarily employs the technology for safety. This ensures that the user has a raw, sensory ride, one which highlights the uniqueness of motorcycling. next100.bmw/en/index.html

LOOKIN’ GOOD, RR

The House of Rolls-Royce has announced its spring/summer 2017 couture collection.

Signature detailing in vibrant colours will complement palettes of classic white as dawn is inspired by fashion.

Rolls-Royce and the world of haute couture have long been bound by a common philosophy – taking the finest materials and crafting them into the most exquisite and desirable luxury goods.

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BMW R100 GS AVVENTURA

The renowned Oscar Tasso has recently embarked on a BMW ‘R100GS’ project, featuring a side of the exotic. This isn’t just a refurbished sidecar outfit boasting a few features; it’s built entirely from scratch. The bike itself had its engine rebuilt with fresh bearings, seals, and gaskets. Larger bing carbs from an ‘RS’ model and an extra-wide stainless exhaust offer a touch more performance to help cope with the extra weight.

ART

ALL HE NEEDS IS FOOD.

Romanian artist Dan Cretu’s quirky images have attracted over 100,000 Tumblr follows and almost 6,000 Instagram followers. All he needs is food… by Lisa Borain >>

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Words: Lisa Borain

ART

D

an Cretu needs only colourful, fresh ingredients to build his fun food art sculptures… everything from chewing gum bacon, a banana baseball mitt and a cabbage brain.

The artist builds his pieces and photographs them within four hours to ensure they stay fresh enough for the shot. What’s amazing is that the work is not digitally manipulated or altered in any way.

Although Cretu finds inspiration in everything, his challenge lies in turning an unlikely object into something else entirely. “All objects and things around us daily are possible subjects for me.

The challenge is to transform a common object that we don’t notice anymore into something unusual, alive, and appealing.”

Some of Cretu’s more salad-inspired creations were a result of a Pizza Hut UK commission. The restaurant chain asked the artist to create several exclusive food art pieces using their

in-house salad bar as a source of materials. The result encouraged the chain’s customers to share their own food art on Instagram, creating a viral buzz.

“The variety of fun, bright and textured salad items on offer at Pizza Hut Restaurants’ unlimited, free salad bar are ideal for depicting the start of spring. The selection available gave me the opportunity to be really creative and craft these unique and playful images.” >>

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Munchies

ART

“The artist builds his pieces and

photographs them within four hours to ensure they stay fresh enough for the shot.”

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arT

Banana baseball mitt

Salami tape

Fruit tape recorder

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Bananametric

ART

objects and things “ All around us daily are

possible subjects for me. The challenge is to transform a common object that we don’t notice anymore into something unusual, alive, and appealing.

”

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EFFORTLESS SAFETY Our idea of luxury Beyond Traffic safety.

The new generation of City Safety with pedestrian cyclist detection and world first innovations.

IntelliSafe technologies from Volvo.

The all new XC90 R-Design is now available for viewing.

Starting from â‚Ź72,000.

GasanZammit Motors Ltd., Mriehel Bypass, Mriehel BKR3000 Tel: 27788225 email: volvo@gasanzammit.com

www.volvocars.com.mt

GADGETS

MARSHALL KILBURN

The Kilburn portable active stereo speaker takes the unmistakable look and sound of Marshall, unplugs the chords, and takes the show on the road…. Weighing in at a taut 3kg, the Kilburn is a lightweight piece of vintage styled engineering, setting the bar as one of the loudest speakers in its class. Find it at iCentre

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HELMET HAIR

LEGO-shaped safety gear literally gives you helmet hair. In an effort to motivate children to use bicycle helmets, design and innovation firm MOEF has created protective head gear in the shape of a LEGO figure’s hair.

FAT NAKED DOCKS The Venus of Cupertino iPad dock is modelled after the curvaceous forms and symbolism of the ancient Venus figurines.

The dock is hand-cast in museum quality resin, and is a fully functioning, and working iPad dock that’s compatible with the second, third, and fourth generation iPads. The iPad fits into a inconspicuous charger located in the Venus’ midriff area.

LOVE LUST

N EW EYE CA N DY FOR T H E DESI GN - PA SSI ON A T E

SELF PORTRAIT MIRROR Ilaria Innocenti and Giorgio Laboratore’s self portrait mirror for Portego is a hand mirror that references Japanese fans, proposing it as a feminine accessory symbol of luxury and beauty. Following the lightness and harmony of the pleats and wrinkled paper found in paper fans, this product has the pattern impressed on the wood through the work of an expert Italian carver. portego.it

mt

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY

A VISUAL JOURNEY. The Rolex Middle Sea Race is often called the world’s most beautiful yacht race. The circular course evokes strong emotions within every sailor who experiences its charms.

by Kurt Arrigo

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PHOTOGRAPHY The 2016 race will be remembered as a race of multiple dimensions, with the only consistency being the inconsistency in the wind.

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PHOTOGRAPHY Imagery and stories abound of the scenery, wildlife and conditions encountered.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

The 608 nautical miles of the 2016 race will be recalled more for testing mental strength than physical prowess over.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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HOME UPDATE POM POM

Brand new suspension lamp with single bulb to add to the Pom Pom lamp family by Calligaris, inspired by the botanical study of a few exotic plant species. Available from Ideacasa. ideacasa.com.mt

GORGEOUS GUBI

GENEVIEVE LETHU LIVES

Gorgeous blue and white abstract plate by Genevieve Lethu from LOFT. www.loft.com.mt

Bestlite BL5 Wall Lamp by Gubi from LOFT. www.loft.com.mt

FAB FLATWARE

‘LIVING’ AWESOME BRANDS FOR AN AWESOME SEASON.

Cutipol matte black handled flatware from LOFT. www.loft.com.mt

LOUNGE MIX

The Lounge Mix by Calligaris is an easy sectional sofa, with a rigorous design, whose appearance is softened by the use of comfortable materials and coverings. from Ideacasa. ideacasa.com.mt

STATUS TABLE

A new interpretation of the refectory table from Ideacasa. ideacasa.com.mt

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HOME UPDATE 1. MEMORY BLOCK BY SID DICKENS, €105.

2. MALACHITE CANDLE BY L’OBJET, €135.

3. CIRE TRUDON CANDLE AND CLOCHE BY CIRE TRUDON, €65.

4. FORNASETTI DIFFUSING SPHERE, €350.

5. L’OBJET 24K GOLD PLATE BY RANGE STARTING FROM €30.

6. COCOON CHAIR BY VINCENT SHEPPARD. €796.

7.WALLPAPER BY ELITIS PAPER AND METAL WEAVEWALLPAPERS, STARTING FROM €72.

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FIND THEM ALL AT CAMILLERIPARISMODE camilleriparismode.com

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Introducing

LIVING

An amazing triplex penthouse, designed by ODA New York for a five-story Romanesque revival warehouse in NYC’s TriBeCa neighbourhood. >>

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LIVING This five-story Romanesque revival warehouse in NYC’s TriBeCa area has had several dramatically different incarnations throughout its life: it was commissioned by a liquor merchant in 1982, later taken over by a pistachio baron, then occupied in recent years by an artist who let it fall derelict. The current owner bought it on EBay (!), choosing principle Eran Chen and ODA to redevelop it as apartments and a storefront. This enterprise involved restoring the facade, constructing a 1,000 square foot pavilion on the roof (which could not be visible from the street, per requirements by the Landmark Preservation Commission), and combining that pavilion with the two original top levels to create a 14,000 square foot triplex in which the owner could live. >>

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LIVING

The space is deliberately restrained “in colour and finishes. ”

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LIVING

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LIVING

“

New elements-like the steel catwalk that rims the doubleheight living area-are thoughtfully contextual, hearkening back to the typical 19th-century cast iron architecture that once dominated the area.

�

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When ODA took on the project, the interior brick on the triplex’s lower two floors was intact-though it required patchwork-and original ceiling beams were reclaimed. Outside, the brick façade has been restored and enriched with terracotta and brownstone details. New elements-like the steel catwalk that rims the double-height living area-are thoughtfully contextual, hearkening back to the typical 19th-century cast iron architecture that once dominated the area.

Aesthetically, the space is deliberately restrained in colour and finishes (e.g., doors and window frames are painted grey; grey/ white slabs of French marble covers the bathroom; dark mapleveneered cabinetry has been chosen for the kitchen). A wall of folding glass doors opens the top floor entertaining space to the terrace, providing unobstructed sight lines. [ V ]

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rabat / sliema / valletta t: 20 10 20 30

www.camilleriparismode.com

that little bit out of the ordinary

fabrics

wallpapers carpeting paints furniture sofas home accessories lighting

FROM THE PROS

A G E O L D Chefs: Jonathan Zammit and Stefan Hogan Pastry Chef: Victor Vella Photography: Alan Carville

Sophisticatedly delicious dishes by the creative Corinthia Palace Chefs.

Bulger Wheat Porrdige with Oysters & Frogs Legs Recipe pg 94 Cutlery and Sid Dickens memory block from camilleriparismode. Plate, candle holders and flower from LOFT.

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THE WONDER OF CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR SHINES BRIGHTLY AT THE CORINTHIA PALACE HOTEL & SPA Join us this festive season as we display The Craftsmanship of Care throughout our hotel. Starting with the Lighting Ceremony on the 8th of December and going through to our decadent New Year’s Eve That’s Amore, join us this winter and let us craft the ultimate Christmas and New Year Experience.

That’s

Amore

VILLA CORINTHIA SATURDAY 31 DECEMBER 2016, 7.30PM ST

CORINTHIA PALACE HOTEL & SPA DE PAULE AVENUE, SAN ANTON BZN 9023, MALTA +356 2144 0301 | EVENTS.PALACE@CORINTHIA.COM | CORINTHIA.COM/PALACE

FROM THE PROS

Braised Pig’s Trotter with Roast Beef Bones Recipe pg 94

Cutlery, Sid Dickens memory block, and napkin + holder from camilleriparismode. Slate, wooden bowl, and flower from LOFT.

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FROM THE PROS

Warm Honey & Prune Cake with Chestnut Ganache.

Recipe pg 94

Cutlery and plate from camilleriparismode. Wooden bowl, flower, and candle holders from LOFT.

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FROM THE PROS BULGER WHEAT PORRDIGE WITH OYSTERS & FROGS LEGS 140g cracked wheat 65g shallots, chopped 50g carrots, finely diced 50g celery, finely diced 450ml ale 50g dried barberry berries ½ tsp (or generous pinch) cinnamon, nutmeg & ginger 3-4 tbsp single cream 250ml chicken stock to top up during cooking pinch saffron 100g assorted mushrooms Dulse (dried red seaweed, rehydrated in water)

4 oysters (shucked, juice retained) 12 frog’s legs 100g butter 60ml oil

Method: In a pot heat one teaspoon of oil and fry the carrot, shallot and celery without colouring. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the saffron and allow to infuse and release the pale gold colour.

Throw in the cracked wheat and lightly coat with the oil. Continue to cook until it starts to turn golden, add the ale and reduce heat until all the ale has been absorbed.

Add the berries and some chicken stock to keep the consistency soft – check seasoning and adjust.

Heat a pan and add a teaspoon of oil.

When hot add the frog’s legs, season, and once coloured, remove from the heat.

Allow the pan to cool slightly and add a teaspoon of butter. As the butter foams, baste the legs to moisten.

In a separate pan heat a tablespoon of oil and when hot, sauté the mushrooms. Season and remove from heat.

To plate, add the oyster juice to the porridge.

Check the seasoning and place a generous head in the centre of the plate. Continue to dress the plates with the frog’s legs, fresh oysters, mushrooms and the seaweed.

BRAISED PIG’S TROTTER WITH ROAST BEEF BONES 4 pig’s trotters, boned 50g carrots, diced 50g onions, diced 100ml white wine 30ml port 200ml beef stock 2 bay leaves

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4 sprigs thyme 200g butter 1 egg 200 ml cream 3 chicken breast, diced 4 shallots, finely diced salt & pepper Method: In a pot, place the trotters, carrots, onions, white wine, port, bay leaves, beef stock, and 2 sprigs of thyme. Cover and cook over a low flame for three hours.

In a pan heat half the butter and add shallots with the remaining thyme. Cook over low heat without colouring.

Chill the chicken breast and place in a food processor and blend with the egg, cream, salt & pepper.

Chill the mousse, and once the shallots are cool, add to the mixture.

Allow the trotters to cool and once chilled drain and pat dry, divide the mousse between the trotters, wrap in cling film and aluminium foil, roll tightly, and firm up in the fridge for a few hours.

Beat together the sieved dry ingredients with the K-beater and gradually add the melted ingredients until fully incorporated.

Add the beaten eggs and fold in the chopped prunes.

Pipe into a desired mould that has been buttered (can also be baked as a cake).

Cook in a pre-heated oven set at 180 C for approximately 40 minutes. At the half hour mark check to ensure that they don’t over-cook.

Allow to cool and remove from the moulds.

For the Amaretto panna cotta

700ml cream 90ml almond milk 10ml Amaretto 75g toasted hazelnuts, chopped 110g sugar 15g gelatine leaves (bloomed in iced water) Method: Bring to the boil the almond milk, cream, sugar and hazelnuts. Allow to infuse for fifteen minutes, then strain.

Cook in a pot of water at a gentle simmer for 20 minutes.

Bring back to the boil, then add the Amaretto and the strained gelatine leaves.

Reduce the beef stock and add the trotter to the beef stock. At the end, when the stock is syrupy add some butter and adjust seasoning.

Pour into desired moulds and allow to set over night.

Serve with bone and roasted marrow, baked shallots, salt baked celeriac, kale and burnt apple puree.

WARM HONEY & PRUNE CAKE WITH CHESTNUT GANACHE For the honey & prune cake 50 ml apple juice 100g brown sugar 110g honey 150g flour 3g baking powder 100g ground almonds 150g unsalted butter 100g whole eggs, cracked and beaten 30g prunes, chopped Method: In a mixer, sieve all the dry ingredients – flour, baking powder and ground almonds.

Melt tighter the honey brown sugar, butter and apple juice until all the sugar has dissolved. Allow to cool slightly.

NB: The strained hazelnuts can be dehydrated and reused.

For the chestnut ganache 300g chestnut puree 8g gelatine leaves (bloomed in iced water) 480g cream 200g milk 16g glucose 230g milk chocolate Method: Over a bain-marie, melt the chestnut purée, cream milk, chocolate and glucose. Once completely melted, add the strained gelatine. Allow to cool and refrigerate.

Pipe to decorate the dessert as desired.

NB: This ganache can also be used for macarons. [ V ]

N A C

G

NEW AUTUMN COLLECTION GET INSPIRED

Valley Road, Birkirkara - t. 2359 5000 info@ideacasa.com.mt - www.ideacasa.com.mt

TRAVEL

IL SERENO Design: Patricia Urquiola Photography: Patricia Parinejad

>

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TRAVEL

One of the most celebrated launches this year, Sereno Hotels opened Il Sereno; an ultra-modern property designed by Patricia Urquiola, nestled on the banks of the idyllic Lake Como. >>

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TRAVEL Views of Lake Como and scenic mountain ranges greet guests in airy lounge areas that seamlessly integrate the interior and exterior of the accommodations.

Fruit tape recorder

At the helm of Ristorante Al Lago, four Michelin star Milan-based Chef Andrea Berton presents modern Italian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

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TRAVEL

‌a clean, simplistic design that embraces and focuses on the spectacular surrounding environment; a stark contrast to the classical designs that are commonly associated with the location. >>

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TRAVEL The hotel features 30 spacious luxury suites, each with its own waterfront terrace and unobstructed views of Lake Como.

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TRAVEL

Made with natural materials including walnut wood, the large steps are encased in bronze and effortlessly “float” as the lobby’s centrepiece.

H

eralded as the most contemporary property to grace the shores of this sought after Italian destination, Il Sereno was created by celebrated designer Patricia Urquiola who was inspired by the natural beauty of the famous lake to produce a clean, simplistic design that embraces and focuses on the spectacular surrounding environment; a stark contrast to the classical designs that are commonly associated with the location.

Spectacular views of Lake Como and scenic mountain ranges greet guests in airy lounge areas that seamlessly integrate the interior and exterior of the accommodations. At the centre of the hotel, Urquiola designed a stunning, original stairwell that serves as

one of many focal points around the property. Made with natural materials including walnut wood, the large steps are encased in bronze and effortlessly “float” as the lobby’s centrepiece. Guests will also find beautiful marble walls with bas-relief patterns that mimic the patterns found in the Venetian terrazzo floors of the restaurant. The hotel features 30 spacious luxury suites, each with its own waterfront terrace and unobstructed views of Lake Como.

Further amplifying the beauty of the lush green surroundings, Il Sereno features breath-taking botanical works of art designed by acclaimed botanist Patrick Blanc. Il Sereno is the first property where Blanc has created three distinct art pieces in one setting; two vertical gardens and one

green sculpture. At the helm of Ristorante Al Lago, celebrated Milan-based Chef Andrea Berton presents modern Italian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. With more than 27 years of industry experience, Berton is a well-known and respected restaurateur who has won four Michelin stars across three restaurants in Milan.

The approachable yet refined menu he created at Ristorante Berton Al Lago encompasses the crossroads of the distinct regions near Lake Como including: the lake with its fish and aromatic herbs, the mountains of Valtellina known for its incredible wines, cheeses and meats, and the nearby Pianura Padana, known for its risotto and other fantastic ingredients. [ V ]

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Count on us to make it magical.

L I F T YO U R

CHRISTMAS SPIRITS Treat yourself to a Hilton Christmas We are delighted to offer you a fabulous festive programme full of great staff party options, tempting cuisine and sparkling entertainment.

F O L L O W U S O N FA C E B O O K F O R T H E F U L L F E S T I V E B R O C H U R E

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS EUAN PHILIPS RICHARD WEBB

EUAN.PHILIPS@HILTON.COM R I C H A R D.W E B B @ H I LT O N . C O M

L ANDLINE

+356 23 734 034 +356 23 733 500

LANDLINE 00356 23 734 034 • 00356 23 733 500 FULL DETAILS FACEBOOK.COM/HILTONMALTA

FINE JEWELLERY

GABA DIAMONDS...

Where trust is a tradition, GABA Diamonds offers long-term peace of mind and everlasting investments.

W

ith almost 50 years’ experience, GABA is a leader in the market of diamonds and precious stones. Now run by the second generation of the original founder, Lee, Wayne, and Sue Satariano use this experience, together with their devotion to core values to help them achieve outstanding quality to produce beautifully handcrafted designs for their collections.

GABA’s diamond certificates are issued by recognised laboratories such as GIA and overseen by HRD qualified gemologists. This ensures that highly professional and genuine advice is given to their clients before the diamond is bought.

Buying a diamond is also investing in a precious stone, the value of which will increase throughout the years.

GABA’s customers have the opportunity to upgrade their diamond at any time without losing the value accumulated by the diamond over the years.

While diamonds are GABA’s forte, so are their vast range of gem stones, classical and modern silver jewellery at highly reasonable prices, and pearl collections.

Their in-house workshop allows for the redesign of rings, as well as alterations and maintenance of jewellery, inclusive of ultrasonic cleaning and polishing.

Set on 4 floors, the GABA complex in Lija also houses the Sunlab brand, which offers a variety of jewellery, watch brands and sunglasses.

Besides jewellery and accessories, at GABA one can also find high-end wines and spirits.

Look out for the new silver jewellery collection, coming soon in time for Christmas, as well as the 40% discount sale on home décor and corporate gifts on brands such as Carrol Boyes, LSA International, Pierre Cardin, Royal Albert Wedgwood and Waterford, throughout the months of November & December. >>

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FINE JEWELLERY

GABA DIAMOND TIPS ON HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR DIAMONDS

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+ Diamonds may be the hardest substance on earth, but they are not indestructible.

While they can be cut or polished only by another diamond, a hard blow can cause them to chip. Never wear your diamonds jewellery when doing rough work.

+ Don’t store your diamond jewellery next to any other jewellery pieces as this can cause scratches. Regularly inspect your diamond jewellery to make sure the setting is secure.

If you notice any signs of damage or loosening of the prongs, you should bring your diamond to GABA for an inspection or maintenance. It’s good idea to have your diamond jewellery examined at least twice a year. In addition to performing any necessary repair work, we can expertly clean your jewellery.

+ Everyday exposure to creams, skin oils hairspray, household chemicals and their substances can cause build up that will dull your diamond’s brilliance and sparkle.

Regular cleaning will keep your diamond jewellery in gleaming condition and ready to sparkle for that special occasion.

+ Be aware that diamonds won’t take kindly to being scrubbed with a toothbrush, so use a soft touch.

Then, just rinse the diamond with water and wipe with a soft, line-free cloth. Do not use harmful solutions.

Chlorine or abrasives should never be used when cleaning diamonds, especially those set in jewellery.

These erode some of the metals often used in diamond settings, and may loosen prongs, or even dissolve the metal completely.

SCHOLL indoor AUTUMN WINTER 2016

THE

THE POINT, TIGNE / THE PLAZA SHOPPING CENTRE, SLIEMA / VALLETTA / MOSTA / FGURA / VICTORIA, GOZO. SCHOLLFOOTHEALTHCENTRE.COM

BEAUTY

FACE RE– FRESH. The new season offers a welcome beauty refresh - as well as a renewed celebration of individuality in hair and make-up. Discover the new products you need to know now, here.

[ FROM LEFT ] Clarins Joli Rouge Brillant provides intense moisture and enhances lips with a subtle shine and sheer finish. From all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector All the colour-shine of a gloss with treatment

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benefits that makes lips look and feel good. From all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

Clarins Nude Lipliner Pencils Jojoba Oilenriched formula glides on flawlessly— defining lip contours with a barely-there effect. From all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil Leaves a shiny, non-stick coating on the lips with a touch of sweetness with a unique fusion formula rich in plant active ingredients, directly inspired by the expertise of Clarins face and body oils. From all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

BEAUTY Clarins 4-Colour Eye Palette Available in matte, satin and pearl-finish shades for a natural or sophisticated look. From all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

Guerlain l’art du trait Elegant and trendy, this Fall Collection 2016 ultimate Precision Felt Eyeliner L’Art du Trait from Guerlain offers precise, clear and definite drawing to create a natural or graphic look. From X-Treme Co Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000 Clarins Supra Volume Mascara Intensifies and enhances eyelashes with extra care increasing the volume of lashes by 17.6%. Lashes can appear fuller after four weeks of use. From all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

Guerlain palette 5 couleurs Each harmony associates 5 selected shades for a flawless result: 1 base to smooth out and illuminate, 2 nude shades and 2 smoky shades for a smouldering look. From X-Treme Co Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000 Guerlain Lingerie de Peau A skin-fusing and natural fresh foundation with a light texture that glides onto the contours of the face like a second skin to enhance beauty naturally, without artifice, all day long. From X-Treme Co Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000 Guerlain Multi-perfecting Concealer 2-in-1 Multi-Perfecting Concealer to correct dark circles and imperfections with a caring action for perfect, natural-looking skin. From X-Treme Co Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000 Shiseido Synchro Skin lasting Liquid Foundation SPF2 A natural, long-lasting liquid finish foundation, that enhances the complexion whilst remaining undetectable to the eye.

From C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 1851.

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BEAUTY

“FRESHEN UP THAT COMPLEXION WITH THESE LITTLE MIRACLES”

Vichy Ideal White Vichy introduces its revolutionary, new Meta-Whitening complex, the IDEAL WHITE line – a 3-step solution against hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

For more info: vichy@prohealth.com.mt (Vichy Facebook) 2146 1851.

Vichy Liftactiv Serum 10 Supreme Enriched with 10% Rhamnose, as well as Hyaluronic Acid for illuminated and plumped skin after just 10 minutes! Exclusively in pharmacies. For more information or samples: vichy@prohealth.com.mt (Vichy Facebook) 2146 1851.

Vichy Dercos Aminexil Clinical 5 The antihair loss treatment for men and women with efficacy that is evident after only 3 weeks as perceived by 96% of users, with a significant decrease of hair loss after 6 weeks validated by dermatologists. Exclusively in pharmacies.

For more info: vichy@prohealth.com.mt (Vichy Facebook) 2146 1851.

Guerlain Abeille Royale Day Cream Transforms the skin’s appearance both instantly and over time - day after day, wrinkles and fine lines are smoothed, skin texture is refined, the skin is firmer and its radiance boosted. From X-Treme Co Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000 Guerlain Orchidée Impériale Black A masterpiece of sensoriality and efficacy – enriched with the Blackimmune technology™ that comes with all the strength and power of the Black Orchid to help reinforce the skin’s self-defence system. From X-Treme Co Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000

0110 LUXURY ISSUE

BEAUTY

‘ POWER

UP YOUR PULSE POINTS’

Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male et Classique Essence de Parfum Le Mâle Essence de Parfum shows a new interpretation of masculinity with for the first time, a redesigned silhouette: more shoulders and a narrower waist! A new olfactory sensation too: a burst of spicy citrus collides with sensual leather notes shaken up with precious woods. Classique Essence de Parfum is a new interpretation of femininity with, also for the first time, a redesigned silhouette. Exclusively distributed by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery Ltd. tel: 2133 1553.

WELL BEING PACKAGE

BY MYOKA • Inner Peace Fully Body Massage (55 mins) • Spa Lunch at the Giuseppi’s Bar & Bistro • Use of Spa Facilities including Indoor & Outdoor Pool All for only €55 Book your appointment on salini@myoka.com

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VAMP.COM.MT NOW ONLINE !

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Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer, had a very shiny nose...

And if you ever saw it, you would even say it glows...

All of the other reindeer, got a voucher in his name...

They told him to go to Niumee, to feel pampered as his gain!

Surprise your loved ones with a Niumee gift voucher this Christmas.

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