Absolutely South West January 2021

SOUTH WEST

South West JANUARY 2021 / £3.95

TAKE A

SEAT How to choose a new sofa

Health & Wellbeing S PEC I AL

How to look and feel your best in 2021

JANUARY 2021

Blow UP A new look at iconic images

Get the

GLOW WELLNESS IN THE NEW YEAR

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Smeg London Flagship store 14 Regent Street St James’, London, SW1Y 4PH

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st-james@smeglondon.com

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0344 573 5573

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www.smeglondon.com

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents JANUARY 2021

40

82 C U LT U R E 10 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 55 BEAUTY NOTES The best new buys

14 WHAT'S ON

56 OIL INDUSTRY

16 BOOK CLUB

70 EYES ON YOU

FOOD & DRINK 22 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

INTERIORS 78 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

26 RECIPES

88 SOFA STORY

10 things we’re coveting this month

Your diary for January

What to read in 2021

News from the industry

Gizzi Erskine's sustainable suppers

FA S H I O N 72 Q&A Design talk with Georgie Roberts of Wanderlust Life

40 THE SHOOT Couture activewear from Ernest Leoty

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The real benfits of CBD

London's best eyewear

News from the industry

Unboxing a sofa in a box

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

95 DATE NIGHT Calendars for 2021

A B S O L U T E LY M A M A 97 MAMAHOOD 30 pages of babies and bumps incorporating Absolutely Mama magazine

O N T H E C OV E R stil-salon.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR ABBIE SCHOFIELD MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNER MIKE ROBERTS MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MEDIA CONSULTANTS JONATHAN MEAD, STELLA ADAMS, ANABELA KOLECI BRAND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER NAVINDER LALL MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3981 7187 or email: craig@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

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Even without travelling, we're coveting everything from this Devon-based jewellery brand.

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S January issue highlights

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SHELF LIFE

Why you should subscribe to a book box this year

2

BIG IN JAPAN

When restaurants reopen, we're heading straighf for Bisushima

H

appy new year! 2021 is upon us and everybody is of course hoping for things to look brighter in the new year.

We're still anticipating a lot of time spent at home, which in January is of course exactly where everyone wants to be. So in this issue we are focusing on wellbeing and health, taking in fitness (and fitness fashion) as well as beauty treatments and vegan make-up. We take a long look at CBD and whether it lives up to its multiple promises – and we look around London for the best places for eyewear to help us see clearly in the new year. For home comforts, we investigate the new generation of sofas (yes, they really do come in boxes) and the variety of meals that are also delivered in boxes. I am a new fan of the book subscription that sends me a new novel every month that I might not necessarily have chosen for myself – and I'm also a fan of Devon-based jewellery brand Wanderlust Life. Read about all of these things and more in this first issue of 2021.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

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4 BLOW UP

Images of icons on display in Chelsea.

3

FROM THE SOFA

We review Swyft's new sofa in a box. Is it really so easy to assemble?

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Janis Joplin, 1967 © Baron Wolman / Iconic Images

Editor’s

COASTAL WANDERLUST

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

ABBIE SCHOFIELD

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GO WILD If your signature style is uber minimal, try adding a pop of print to your outfits this season. This gorgeous haircalf shoulder bag is a convenient size and has a statement gold twist lock for extra edge. £595 hillandfriends.com

E A R PA R T Y Hook these clever earring extensions onto any stud to transform them into a dramatic waterfall of aqua glass beads and freshwater pearls. Hand cut and with 18k gold plated brass fittings, they are also available with just pearls. $70 shophannan.com

SOFT FOCUS

SOLE M AT T E R S

We're coveting celebrity favourite and queen of cashmere Madeleine Thompson's dreamy Resort 2021 collection, in particular the 'Temple of Doom' wide-legged trousers made from 100% cashmere. £355 madeleine-thompson.com

Inspired by tennis court shoes, Sante + Wade's Sway trainers are both sporty and sleek, with leather and suede details. Wear the white pair with anything from floral midi dresses to blue denim jeans. £150 santewade.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

ROSE TINTED This ever-so-soft ribbed knit set comes in various colours, but we particularly love the dusty rose.

The long-sleeved top is cosy enough for lounging but pretty enough for work video calls. £108 freepeople.com/uk

OUT OF AFRICA Vanleles is the world's first femaleowned African fine jewellery brand. Inspried by Ancient Egypt, The Nile Collection includes these dazzling white gold and ruby earring jackets. £3,000 vanleles.com

BEANIE BABY Strathberry's new cashmere collection is crafted in Scotland using the finest yarns. As well as scarfs, capes and blankets, the designer's ribbed beanie is made from 100% cashmere. £85 strathberry.com

EDITOR’S PICK

BLANKET COV E R AG E

PERFECT FIT

Introducing new fabrics and textures to a room can spruce it up without the need for a full makeover. Treat yourself to new cushions and throws, like this Easy Knit blanket by Loaf. £135 loaf.com

For flattering lingerie like this ballerina-inspired set from Aubade's Nudessence collection, head to Amelie's Follies where you can book a fitting with one of their specialists. Bra £75, briefs £39 ameliesfollies.co.uk

AC T N AT U R A L With a focus on 'forever' pieces, Amanda Wakeley's new collection is full of wearable colours, thoughtful tailoring and beautiful fabrics. amandawakeley.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Luxury Kitchens since 1892

Clear structures, sensible space. +SEGMENTO Y

Poggenpohl Wigmore 118 Wigmore Street London | W1U 3RT phone 020 7224 1986 wigmore@poggenpohl.com www.wigmore.poggenpohl.com

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Poggenpohl Chelsea 107 Pimlico Road London | SW1W 8PH phone 020 7730 7927 chelsea@poggenpohl.com www.chelsea.poggenpohl.com

Poggenpohl Hampstead 477-481 Finchley Road London | NW3 6HS phone 020 7794 7801 hampstead@poggenpohl.com www.hampstead.poggenpohl.com

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C ULT U RE IN ASSOCIATION WITH

GAIA BY LUKE JERRAM AT THE OLD ROYAL NAVAL COLLEGE UNTIL FEBRUARY 2021.

What's on 14 • Blow Up: Icons Up Close & Personal 19 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Agenda

LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

CARRIE MAE WEEMS, UNTITLED (PLAYING HARMONICA)

O N L I N E

Rear Window Until 19 January WHITE CUBE GALLERY White Cube Gallery’s latest online exhibition is inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s 1954 thriller Rear Window, in which a man observes his New York neighbours via binoculars. The digital experience features artworks by 11 modern artists who challenge and explore voyeurism in unique ways. whitecube.viewingrooms.com

ADAMA JALLOH & HAMED MAIYE

A YOUNG GENTOO PENGUIN

F I L M

Antarctica 3D I MA X C I NE MA • O NGOIN G

The Science Museum’s newly refurbished IMAX cinema is showing BBC Earth’s Antarctica 3D this new year. Narrated by actor Benedict Cumberbatch, audiences can experience the stunning icy landscape and resilient wildlife of the Antarctic via Laser in 3D and immersive sound. The powerful film depicts that despite the region's remoteness, what happens there affects us all.

Exhibition Road, SW7 2DD sciencemuseum.org.uk

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P H OTO GRA PHY

Ode to Afrosurrealism Until August HORNIMAN MUSEUM & GARDENS This art exhibition is a collaboration between photographers Adama Jalloh and Hamed Maiye, who explore contemporary relationships with spiritualism, reality and surrealism through a Black British lens.

100 London Road, SE23 3PQ horniman.ac.uk

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

VI RTUAL A RT

Frank Stella

Until 20 March SHAPERO MODERN Shapero Rare Books' new art space, Shapero Modern, has opened with What You See Is What You See, an exhibition of Frank Stella’s prints from 1967 to 2001. Expect experimentation, colour and abstraction that maps out the prolific painter and sculptor’s career over time.

41-43 Maddox Street, W1S 2PD shapero.com

E V EN T S How to explore culture at home

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM ONGOING Discover the city’s secret history with Hidden London, a virtual tour of forgotten parts of the Underground, like the now inaccessible Brompton Road station which was used during WW2 as a secret control centre for Britain’s Anti-Aircraft Division. ltmuseum.co.uk

FRANK STELLA, FORTIN DE LAS FLORES, 1967

E X H I B I TI O N

BRASS, STEEL & FIRE

This Month’s Must See

Until 3 May SCIENCE MUSEUM Previously at the National Railway Museum in York, this award-winning exhibition explores the stories behind many unique locomotive models, revealing who made them and why. Featuring the oldest model locomotives in the world, intricate miniatures and 200 tools, the exhibition is ticketed but free to all.

Exhibition Road, SW7 2DD sciencemuseum.org.uk

HIDDEN LONDON VIRTUAL TOUR

KURAMI WELLNESS FESTIVAL

GAIA

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U NTI L 7 F E B RUARY • OLD ROYAL N AVAL COLLEGE

uke Jerram’s scale replica sculpture of planet Earth is returning to Greenwich after a sold-out run in the summer. Lit from within and seven metres wide, the awe-inspiring installation was created using NASA imagery and slowly rotates to mimic the earth’s movements. Accompanying music is by BAFTA-winning Dan Jones.

King William Walk, SE10 9NN ornc.org

ONGOING Boutique meal delivery company Kurami have launched Self Care January, a series of virtual wellbeing events hosted on their Instagram this month. Expect morning meditation, yoga, tutorials on nutrition and haircare and more. @kuramiuk

NEW FUTURES DIGITAL FROM 20 JANUARY New online series New Futures Digital by Kovet.Art showcases the best emerging UK artists and curators in a digital ‘Art Vault’. Following an exhibition in partnership with Central St Martins, a focus on Slade School of Fine Art will begin this month. kovet.art

GAIA BY LUKE JERRAM

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CULTURE • BOOKS

BOOK CLUB

“Aboremp orerisque et labor solo volorehenda eiunt, odiam fuga. quam eum volut”

If you take on one new subscription in 2021, make it a book box. Here’s why

By PENDLE HARTE

S

ubscribing to stuff is the way we all live now. Small amounts come out of our accounts every month for things designed to improve our lives, from Netflix and music to coffee beans, wine and cacti.

Some physical, some digital, and they’re all too easy to sign up to. Periodically – often in January – we check our direct debits and make some culls. But one subscription that is ringfenced for me this year is the book box.

This despite its lack of immediate appeal – I already have a pile of unread novels, plus others on a mental list, and no shortage of recommendations. But three months into my subscription with Love My Read, I am converted. Particularly because the postman’s knock has never been more exciting than in recent months, and who can resist a beautiful package with surprises inside?

Love My Read’s method is clever. First an email arrives with a shortlist of novels on it. Some you’ve heard of, others you haven’t. They’re all due for publication imminently, so there’s the thrill of the prerelease – and detailed descriptions of each help you choose. Click on one, and that’s it.

Not long afterwards, a box arrives and this is where their careful curation comes to the fore. In the parcel there’s not just a book, but accompanying treats too - chocolate, perhaps, or a snack, maybe some skincare samples, and Love My Read’s pamphlet with author interviews and information, plus maybe a wordsearch or a quiz. The children’s subscription box is just as simple, with books automatically selected by age, and comes with a colouring book and pencils, plus other small treats. Small pleasures like these seem to mean a lot at the moment. That's why this one's a keeper. lovemyread.com

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My choices L E AV E T H E WO R L D B E H I N D

by Ruuman Alam

This creepy novel taps into our deepest fears, but slowly and subtly. What happens when a middle class New York family’s holiday is interrupted by what could be the end of the world? Never has a lack of mobile phone reception seemed more ominous.

T H E I L LU S T R AT E D CHILD

by Polly Crosby

This coming-of-age story is told from the point of view of a girl growing up with a troubled father, who makes her the subject of his children’s books. It’s a dark and atmospheric story that stays with you.

MORE THAN A WO M A N

by Caitlin Moran

Caitlin Moran’s comedy-filled focus on middle age takes in the trials of living with teenagers as well as the minutiae of domesticity in all its hilarity.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Hingstons Of Wilton Purveyors of Antiques and decorative items (est.1976)

�e Old Bell House, 2 Sha�tesbury Road, Wilton, Salisbury, SP2 0DR 01722 742263 | nick@hingstons-antiques.co.uk www.hingstons-antiques.co.uk

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CULTURE • PHOTOGRAPHY AUDREY HEPBURN, 1966 © TERRY O’NEILL / ICONIC IMAGES

BlowUP A new exhibition of iconic photography opens in Chelsea

By EVE HERBERT

JANIS JOPLIN, 1967 © BARON WOLMAN / ICONIC IMAGES

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“The exhibition is a love letter to the art of photography”

MILES DAVIS, LATE 1950S © TED WILLIAMS / ICONIC IMAGES

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conic Images Gallery’s exciting new exhibition Blow-Up features a dazzling array of 20th century icons, from John Lennon to Brigitte Bardot, Jimi Hendrix to Janis Joplin, Miles Davis, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and many more. Photographers featured are the equally legendary Terry O’Neil, Norman Parkinson, Douglas Kirkland, Kevin Cummins, Ed Caereff, Michael Brennan, Eva Sereny, Lawrence Fried, Janet Macoska, Baron Wolman, Greg Brennan, Michael Ward, Justin de Villeneuve and David Nutter.

The exhibition is inspired by Michelangelo Antonioni’s 1966 cult film Blow Up – a counter-cultural masterpiece about the act of seeing and the art of image making – and Terry O’Neil’s on-set photographs of the film’s fashion photographer protagonist, David Hemmings, provide the eye-opening backdrop. The exhibition is a love letter to the art of photography, but at the same time is a nostalgic look back at the icons and the trailblazing careers of the photographers who inspired a new genre of the medium.

Carrie Kania, Creative Director of Iconic Images said: “We wanted to celebrate the reopening of Iconic Images Gallery by launching a brand-new show highlighting some of the photographers we are lucky to represent and showcasing some of their iconic celebrity portraits. From Audrey Hepburn to Paul Newman, Debbie Harry to Muhammad Ali – this show has it all.”

Highlights of the exhibition include signed prints by the late Terry O’Neil CBE and Baron Wolman, the first photographer at Rolling Stone Magazine, who sadly passed away recently.

B LOW U P Until 28 February, Iconic Images Gallery 13A Park Walk, London SW10 0AJ iconicimages.net

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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We’re perfectly positioned in the heart of Blackheath Village, and have been your local dentist since 1968, helping generations of families look good and feel good.

Whether it’s for a check-up, makeover or an emergency call 020 8852 0442 for a consultation.

The feel good factor 19 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath Village, London SE3 0TA, info@sparklysmile.co.uk, sparklysmile.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

LEVANT LAMB CERU

Eastern Mediterranean restaurant Ceru has launched a Cook at Home range. Pictured is their slow roasted lamb shoulder, with pomegranate, mint and pistachio sauce. cerurestaurants.com

Food notes 22 • Recipes 26 • Drinks 31 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2018 Berry Bros. & Rudd, Sonoma County Chardonnay  £37.00 This wine has an attractive, ripe stonefruit nose, with aromas of orange blossom, ginger and citrus zest adding complexity. Time in French oak has contributed layers of toast and spice, and is generously supported by lively, crisp acidity.

2019 Albariño by Bodegas Sucesores de Benito Santos  £13.95 Made exclusively from organic grapes, the 2019 vintage is alluringly juicy and concentrated.

On the nose, notes of ripe red and black berry fruit combine with hints of liquorice, rosemary and tapenade. The wine’s acidity provides a real juiciness too.

2018 Pulenta Estate, La Flor Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina  £14.50 With aromas of black cherry and plum and subtle and well-integrated cedar notes on the palate, this fruity red wine is the perfect accompaniment to grilled lamb or a hearty mushroom risotto.

BERRY BROS. & RUDD Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's.

bbr.com

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Global grub V I R T UA L D E L U X

Demand for fine dining at home is growing, and this new concept delivers five-star food from four virtual restaurants.

There’s Manhattan Kitchen serving premium comfort food, The Forgotten Vegetable championing plant-based dishes, Bacàn serving contemporary Peruvian plates and authentic Russian cuisine from The Noble Tsar. virtualdelux.com

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES

PLANT POWER Our favourite vegan eats this month

CLUB MEXICANA

Deli delights

Vegan street food veteran Club Mexicana's Kingly Court restaurant serves sumptuous and spicy plant-based tacos, burritos and nachos alongside frozen margaritas and palomas.

Kingly Court, W1B 5PW clubmexicana.com

VALLEBONA

Supplier to top restaurants including Le Gavroche and River Café, Vallebona has opened its first high street shop in Wimbledon Village. Established 130 years ago in Sardinia, the family-run deli sells cheese, charcuterie, grazing boxes and other delights. Expect restaurant-quality and hard-tofind produce that makes eating in a real treat.

70a High Street, SW19 5EE vallebona.co.uk

COMO K I TC H EN COMO GARDEN

While most of us still can't travel, this new Kensington restaurant will transport you to the idyllic Lake Como, which provided the inspiration for its blissful interiors. The menu champions handmade pasta and Italian small plates with a focus on seasonal produce. Bellissimo.

37-45 Kensington High Street, W8 5ED @como.garden

PAT T Y & B U N Patty & Bun's DIY kit includes everything needed to create two of their Vegan Ari Golds and two Smokey Robinson burgers, from patties to condiments.

Place your order online for a delicious home delivery. shop.pattyandbun.co.uk

JUST ROLL WITH IT BISUSHIMA

Order up BRAT

On weekends, Michelin-starred Basque restaurant Brat is now offering a takeaway collection menu of wood-fired bread and snacks such as fritto misto and burnt aubergine with honey & yoghurt. Larger dishes like aged roast duck, Jersey beef chop and Brat's signature whole turbot can be pre-ordered via Whatsapp.

374 Helmsley Place, E8 3SB @bratrestaurant

T H E S P R E A D E AG L E Pub grub normally involves fish & chips and meaty roasts, but The Spread Eagle is different.

London's first 100% vegan pub, The Spread Eagle's roast consists of a Beet Wellington and all the plant-based trimmings.

224 Homerton High Street, E9 6AS thespreadeaglelondon.co.uk

Having worked as a sushi chef in kitchens across the world, Sergey Man has created modern Japanese restaurant Bisushima.

As well as the chef's signature sushi and mains such as pork tonkatsu, Bishushima will be the only restaurant in London to serve Japanese breakfast.

8 St. Martin’s Place, WC2N 4JH bisushima.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK • MEAL KITS

S P E C I A L D E L I V E R Y

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THE ADDRESS The Address will deliver you a Breakfast in Bed meal kit for the weekend. We opt for the Meat Feast and indulge in Lake District bacon and sausages, golden freerange eggs, organic sourdough, a house marinade, organic tomatoes and more. The perfect Saturday treat. £25 for two servings, delivery within 11-mile radius of Pimlico Road no11pimlicoroad.co.uk/order

OUR FAVOURITE MEAL KITS OF THE MONTH

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JUICI JERK A delivery from this Carribean kitchen is just the thing to brighten up a wintry evening. We feast on jerk chicken, rice and peas, coleslaw, mac and cheese, plantain, festivals and Juici Jerk’s signature sauces, all fantastic flavours with just the right amount of heat. £30 feeds 2-3, available on UberEats, Deliveroo, JustEat and Flipdish juicijerk.com

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BAR DOURO

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Portugeuse restaurant Bar Douro has launched a DIY kit inspired by the eateries and bars of Lisbon and Porto.

The kit includes bread & olive oil to start, followed by dishes including smoked Portuguese sausage, Arroz de polvo (traditional Octopus rice), braised beef cheeks with esparregado & root vegetable crisps and traditional Portugeuse dessert Toucinho do Ceu. £60, delivery nationwide restokit.co.uk

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MORTIMER HOUSE Mortimer House offers a variety of meal kits with varying degrees of effort required. The only requirement for our lasagne kit is a spatula for serving this hearty and comforting dish for four. For pudding, decadent Sicilian Cannoli came ready to pipe with sweet ricotta. Lasagne £35. mortimerhousekitchen.com

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P I Z Z A P I LG R I M S

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Pizza Pilgrims’ Frying Pan Pizza kit contains proved dough, marinara sauce, fior di latte, parmesan and toppings (like Truffle & Mushroom).

An online video will teach you how to stretch your dough like a pro before cooking. The result is a fresh and tasty Neapolitan-style pizza — much more fun than Dominoes.

From £13.95, delivery UK-wide pizzainthepost.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Restore &

REVIVE Hearty, happy dishes for January Wo r d s G I Z Z I E R S K I N E Photography ISSY CROKER

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Vongole SERVES 2

Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 200g spaghetti • 1kg clams, cleaned and rinsed for about 10 minutes in cold water • 300ml white wine • 80ml olive oil • 1 head of garlic, cloves peeled and thinly sliced • 2 dried chillies, crushed • 3 vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped • Bunch of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped • Juice of l lemon • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

C

lams are my favourite food.

Some people can sit and eat ridiculous volumes of oysters (I am also one of those people), and I feel the same about clams. Winey, garlicky clams, with buttery bread to mop up the juices and a freezing glass of light white wine are one of the biggest eating pleasures of all.

Okay, so here's the deal with vongole. I use four techniques to ensure maximum flavour: first, I open the clams early in too much wine, second, I use too much garlic, third, I don't cook the pasta fully, so it finishes cooking in the sauce, and fourth, I use the starchy pasta water to emulsify the sauce.

METHOD 1 Bring a large saucepan of heavily salted water to the boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for a minute or two less than the suggested time so it's al dente and not quite cooked (you will finish cooking the pasta at the end). Get the clams on while the spaghetti is cooking. When you drain the pasta, be sure to save 2-3 ladles of the cooking water to add to the sauce later.

2 Put a large, dry saucepan over a high heat and let it get really hot. Throw in the clams with the wine and quickly cover to steam the clams for 1-2 minutes, until they have opened. Strain them, discarding any that remain closed and reserving the liquor in a bowl. Pick the clam meat out of about 80 per cent of the shells, and save the other 20 per cent to serve.

3 Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok over a medium heat, add the garlic and chillies and fry for 2-3 minutes until the garlic starts to pick up a little colour. Next, add the chopped tomatoes and fry for a few minutes until they start to break down into the oil. Now pour in the winey clam stock, being careful not to pour in the last bit at the bottom as this can often be a bit sandy. Whack the heat up and allow it to reduce to a soupy

sauce, then add the spaghetti, the pasta cooking water (start with 2 ladles and add another if you need to) and the clams.

Stir through the parsley and lemon juice and allow the whole lot to boil for 1-2 minutes to finish off cooking the pasta and allow it to absorb the sauce. Season with a good pinch of salt and some freshly ground pepper and serve immediately.

Braised Flat Beans

in Slow Cooked Tomato Sauce SERVES 4 as a side dish

Preparation time 10 minutes, plus 1 hour 45 minutes for the tomato sauce Cooking time 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 3 tbsp oil • ½ dried chilli • Pinch of dried chilli flakes • 1 sprig of rosemary, marjoram or oregano • 400g Slow Cooked Tomato Sauce • 500g flat beans, stalk ends cut off • ½ tsp sea salt flakes To Serve • 2-3 tbsp Greek yoghurt • ½ tsp pul biber • Good handful of a combination of chopped flat-leaf parsley, dill and mint leaves

I

've seen variations of this dish all over the place, here in the UK, but also in Turkey, France and Italy, which to me is an exciting situation as no one has ownership over the recipe, and its ubiquitousness and longevity is a sure-fire sign that beans and tomatoes are a tried-and-tested combination. Traditionally, the beans are meant to be served a little more cooked than you might be used to seeing these days, and are as a result not as vibrant, but have the confidence to let them to lose some of their colour in order to achieve the right texture.

Here, they are cooked for less than the standard 30 minutes, and are instead allowed to cook a little further in the residual heat of the pan once it's removed from the hob, to maintain some freshness and bite. The beans can be braised in advance and reheated.

METHOD 1 Heat the oil in a wide saucepan (one wide enough to fit the beans in whole) over a high heat, and add the dried chilli, dried chilli flakes and rosemary, marjoram or oregano.

2 Allow to infuse the oil for a minute, then pour in the tomato sauce and lay the beans flat in the pan.

3 Add salt and a splash of water and cover with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 10 minutes until the beans are tender but still retain a bit of bite. Check for seasoning, remove from the heat and set aside to cool (they will cook a little further in the sauce while they cool).

4 When ready to serve, spoon over the yoghurt, sprinkle over the pul biber and scatter the chopped herbs on top.

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SINCLAIR HOUSE SCHOOL INSPIRE · CHALLENGE · ACHIEVE

OPEN DAYS Thursday 4th February and Thursday 4th March 2021 9.00 am - 12.00 noon Register online: www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk/opendays or Email: admissions@sinclairhouseschool.com SHS.indd 1

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

METHOD

Garbage Pail Cookies

a homage to Momofuku Milk Bar Cooking time 7-8 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 250g light muscovado sugar • 120g golden granulated sugar • 250g butter, at room temperature, cut into cubes • 1 free-range egg • 1 tsp vanilla extract 300g plain flour • 1 tsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • 500g combination of any of the following,

including at least 150g chocolatey things: porridge oats, mixed chocolate or caramels marshmallows/dried fruit / rice crispies/cornflakes/any cereal/ pretzels/ready-salted crisps / nuts, such as peanuts or hazelnuts

1 Cream together both the sugars with the butter using an electric handheld whisk, or a food processor fitted with the whisk attachment. Once it has become pale and creamy, add the egg and the vanilla extract and continue mixing for about 5 minutes.

2 Combine the flour, baking powder and salt then add to the butter and sugar mixture and continue to mix until well combined.

Now add the ingredients of your choice, making sure that whatever you decide to use, the final weight comes to 500g: you can use any combination of flavours and textures you like and have to hand.

It's best to mix them into the dough with your hands so as not to break the dough up too much. When everything is well distributed, wrap the dough in cling film or greaseproof paper and put in the fridge to chill for a minimum of 30 minutes.

3 Preheat the oven to 200°C/l80°C fan/gas mark 6 and line two baking trays with baking parchment.

4 Unwrap the dough and mould it into about 28 x 50g balls. Put a few dough balls, well spaced out, on the lined baking trays (the cookies do spread quite a lot while cooking, so you may need to bake them in batches). Bake in the oven for 7-8 minutes, until they have begun to turn slightly golden but are still quite soft.

5 Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool briefly before eating (they are irresistible warm, with a glass of cold milk). They keep well in an airtight container for a few days.

T

his is a great way to use up not only forgotten chocolate at the back of the cupboard, but also other miscellaneous snacks - anything from pretzels and readysalted crisps, cereal and oats to Turkish delight and marshmallows.

You can pretty much put whatever you want in these. I can't take glory for the recipe: a Momofuku pastry chef called Christina Tosi had this brilliantly useful and witty idea years and years ago, and this is my variation on it. I wanted to share the concept with you all.

Recipes taken from Restore by Gizzi Erskine. Published by HQ, £25

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET

What to drink in Dry January

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

REVIEW

KEEP CALM M A R I A & C R A I G’ S Founded by a husband and wife duo, this non-alcoholic botanical spirit is infused with CBD to provide a sense of serenity alongside your tipple. Blended with sage, chamomile, juniper and orange blossom, serve Maria & Craig's over ice with tonic and orange peel for a zingy, wellness-boosting mocktail.

£22.99; maria-and-craigs.com

PURE SPIRIT FLUÈRE Created with the same distilling techniques used for gin, mezcal and rum, Fluère uses botanicals, herbs and fruits such as juniper, lime and lavender to create a refreshing and light taste. Mix Fluère Original with tonic for a gin-less G&T.

£20; amazon.co.uk

BOTTLE UP CROSSIP Award-winning bartender and Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch drink expert Carl Anthony Brown has launched Crossip, a range of nonalcoholic spirits. There’s Fresh Citrus, Dandy Smoke and Pure Hibiscus, which makes an excellent No-groni. Plus, for every bottle sold, 5% of sales will go to social causes.

£22; crossipdrinks.com

58 Gin

Not giving up booze? Make your own gin instead

By EVE HERBERT

F

or many, the only dry thing about this month will be the gin - and we don’t blame you. A cocktail at the end of the week was one of the few pleasures that an otherwise miserable 2020 had to offer. However, there is something you can do to make your evening routine a bit more exciting: create your own perfect spirit with 58 Gin’s Make Your Own Gin kit, a virtual version of their Gin School in Haggerston.

It begins online where you define your ideal flavour profile; whether you prefer citrus, spiced, herbal or floral flavours, your bespoke beverage will be ideally suited to your taste buds.

Next, choose up to six botanicals to include, from warming grains of paradise to tangy grapefruit, before deciding whether you want your liquid to be pink or clear. You can even name your gin and personalise your bottle.

The team at 58 Gin’s London artisan distillery will then bring your creation to life with the addition of essential London Dry gin ingredients: juniper, orris and angelica root. The finished result is two 70cl bottles which are then delivered to an address of your choosing nationwide, so you can treat yourself or gift a fellow gin lover.

It’s housed in pink packaging and the bottles are so pretty you won’t want to get rid of them (everything is 100% recyclable, even the glass corks). The distillery has impressive sustainable credentials: it uses surplus and foraged berries while botanical waste is gifted to a local church garden.

58 GIN

Make Your Own Gin kit, £99 58gin.com

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LE PONT DE LA TOUR TOWER BRIDGE

At Le Pont de la Tour, admire Tower Bridge from snuggly sheepskin blankets while twinkling fairy lights illuminate the terrace. The Parisianinspired set winter menu includes dishes such as Goujonettes of Cornish plaice with tartare sauce and fries. lepontdelatour.co.uk

EATING OUT

Our favourite outdoor restaurants with heated terraces and cosy tents

By PENDLE HARTE & ABBIE SCHOFIELD

JOY PORTOBELLO DOCKS

Flora restaurant at Joy has six weatherproof tents decorated with plants and 1950s artwork, plus an infrared heater to keep the chill out.

The menu changes frequently, but expect mains like veal shin with red cabbage, anchovy & rosemary sauce joyatportobello.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK • OUTDOORS

DOUBLE STANDARD

EDITOR’S PICK

THE STANDARD HOTEL

Double Standard has transformed its outdoor seating area into a warm and cosy winter terrace. Complete with a crackling fire pit, festoon lighting and sheepskin furs, it’s a picturesque spot for an al fresco drink. standardhotels.com

THE REGENT BALHAM

Evoking the après-ski vibe we’re missing out on this year, The Regent in Balham’s Alpine winter wonderland has two giant heated tipis and a Rac Shack raclette truck. theregentbalham.co.uk

HOLBORN DINING ROOM THE ROSEWOOD LONDON

Holborn Dining Room’s winter terrace, in partnership with Macallan whisky, is inspired by the Macallan estate in the Scottish hills. In keeping with the theme, staff will be dressed in Scottish tweed, roll necks and fly fishing jackets, and each dish can be paired with the perfect Macallan whisky. holborndiningroom.com

The IV Y CHELSEA GARDEN

This Chelsea stalwart’s extensive garden and terrace has a warming fire pit so guests can enjoy the winter menu al fresco (although we advise wrapping up well). Dishes include twice-baked cheese soufflé, lobster linguine and The Ivy’s signature truffle hamburger. theivychelseagarden.com

THE IVY ST JOHN’S WOOD

The Ivy St John’s Wood has an all-day brasserie-style menu and a special weekend brunch. And now with heated outdoor seating, you can visit with up to five friends. theivystjohnswood.com

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FASHION

BEAR NECESSITY WHISTLES

The teddy coat is a wardrobe essential: warm, cosy and stylish and ready for all our distanced socialising options.

Whether dining outside or walking in the park, the teddy is your friend. Double breasted teddy coat, £289 whistles.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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GEORGIE ROBERTS

Q&A

S t on e

FREE Absolutely quizzes Georgie Roberts on her inspiring jewellery brand, Wanderlust Life Interview PENDLE HARTE

W “Initially the brand was inspired by physical travel, but today it’s much more focused on the idea of the personal journey” 36

anderlust Life embodies a clean, paredback aesthetic based around the elegance of natural elements and deliberate simplicity. The jewellery is designed and created in a working studio in North Devon.

The brand's signature look features a spectrum of semi-precious faceted stones punctuating delicate gold chains, fine cord necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings.

Minimal but meaningful, each piece holds a narrative and is designed to act as a talisman or visual mantra, bringing a spirit of curiosity and courage into everyday life.

With two collections a year, this understated jewellery and lifestyle label has a minimalist edge, born from a passion for travel, purpose and inspired living.

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FASHION • Q&A

by physical travel, but today it’s much more focused on the idea of the personal journey. I hope that by sharing jewellery with meaning, it can be kept as a keepsake to inspire positive and intentioned living.

Q Where is everything made?

A Our core collections are made by

hand in our North Devon studio by our all-female collective. We also work in partnership with traditional goldsmiths to develop and produce our biannual collections, based in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter and also Jaipur in India, and our collaborators craft by hand each piece they make for us.

Q What materials do you use?

A Semi-precious gemstones are a signature

of our minimal designs, and our collection features over 40 different stones. We use 14k ‘gold fill’ for most parts of our jewellery, including chains and clasps. Gold fill is 100 times thicker than gold plating and has a minimum gold quantity, it’s a really affordable alternative to real gold. Some of our collection pieces use 14k gold plated silver, as this process allows us to explore different design processes, such as casting.

Q Tell us the inspirations behind

the current collection.

A Cosmos Sky is our latest collection,

Q Your style is simple and minimal,

but very stylish and considered.

Can you describe your aesthetic?

A I love a clean and pared-back aesthetic around the elegance of natural elements and deliberate simplicity. Less is always more, and I love creating something that feels timeless, like it could have always existed. Those principles are woven through every element of Wanderlust Life, within our jewellery designs, but also how we package our pieces, and how our shop and studio was designed and created to embody this feeling within a space.

and we took inspiration from the beauty of the night’s sky. We are embracing this season’s darker nights by celebrating them. We used very special gemstones

ARCANA RING, £68

Q What led you to set up Wanderlust Life?

A The journey of Wanderlust Life began

by creating designs I wanted to wear myself. I was looking for a piece of minimal semi-precious jewellery that encapsulated my love for understated design, and it all gathered momentum from there. Initially the brand was inspired

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FASHION • Q&A

“It still blows my mind when I see orders going out halfway across the globe”

including black or salt and pepper diamonds that evoke the feeling of a light in a dark sky, and used star settings that mimic the shining points of a star.

Q Your shop is in Devon but your

ARCANA PENDANT, £72

GALAXIE GOLD CHAIN NECKLACE, £88

clients are international. Where are you shipping to most?

A Yes, from our very early days the nature of being a travel-inspired brand has led us to seek out customers across the globe.

We ship to a lot of customers within the UK, both in the south-west closer to home, but also to London and the surrounding areas. Internationally, we are often sending pieces over to Germany, France, Czech Republic, and as far afield as Australia.

It still blows my mind when I see orders going out halfway across the globe, and feel humbled that the brand has travelled so far.

Q What are your best-sellers?

A Our signature fine cord necklaces are

super minimal necklaces that are available in a spectrum of semi-precious faceted stones. This was the first piece we ever created, and continues to be one of our most loved pieces. You can choose your necklace by gemstone, its properties or mantra, by colour and even by your birth month. It’s such a meaningful piece, and makes a perfect gift.

38

Q What’s next for Wanderlust Life?

A 2020 was tough for everyone, so as a

team we are all super excited to start a new year with positive mindsets and a fresh brighter perspective. We are relaunching our birthstone collection which includes an artist collaboration, plus our new collection that we are currently designing and sampling for a Spring 2021 release.

I’ve also just got the keys to a beach bungalow near our studio which I have bought, just a few minutes from the beach. We’re in a super holiday spot in North Devon, and I have always wanted to create a Wanderlust Life living space, so am currently working on the design for this holiday home. With more people travelling in the UK at the moment, it felt like the right time to bring this project to life – so watch this space!

wanderlustlife.co.uk

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It s It’s

Sal

Time

Amélie’s Follies’ January sale will start on 5th January

We are currently working by appointment only Book via the ‘book a fitting’ on our website or in our Instagram bio

LINGERIE • NIGHTWEAR • SWIMWEAR • BEACHWEAR

Lingerie and swimwear from A to J cup (size 8 to 20) GIFT VOUCHER AND GIFT WRAPPING AVAILABLE

34 Webb’s Road, London SW11 6SF Tel: 020 7924 3826 www.ameliesfollies.co.uk

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ACTIVE C O U T U R E

Ernest Leoty's technical activewear fuses luxury fashion with traditional French tailoring E R N E S T L E O T Y. C O M

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Feeling blue Ring in the new year with ice-inspired jewels

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

46

RAEMI

YAEL SONIA

V BY LAURA VANN

Haya Shield Ring, £95 raemi.com

Small Twist Ring, $2,150 yaelsonia.com

Etta Ring, £105 vbylauravann.com

OTIUMBERG

MAYA

SELIM MOUZANNAR

Chunky Diamond Band, £1,752 otiumberg.com

Fifth Element Ring with Sapphire, €950 mayagemstones.com

Pink Sapphire Enamel Cocktail Ring, £2,920 libertylondon.com

SWAROVSKI

TABBAH

SAMANTHA TEA

Twist Wrap Ring, £149 swarovski.com

G-Glam Ring, $3,830 tabbah.com

Emma Ring with Blue Diamond, £495 samanthatea.com

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free

TO B E

Rediscover the joy of getting dressed with the chic, free-spirited brand that’s slowly taking over London

by EVE HERBERT

W

hile the beginning of any new year brings with it the cathartic notion of reset, never has a fresh start been more necessary than it is now. After a very different festive season — scratch that, a very different past 12 months — if you’re anything like us, your gaze is vehemently fixed on the future and all of its hopeful possibilities. As such, it’s little wonder that we’ve begun assembling our dream 2021 capsule wardrobe to match, placing a considerable amount of thought on the purchases we’ll make now, to see us through the season ahead. And there’s one brand that has created a collection of beautiful clothing with the escapism we so long for practically built-in.

Chances are you’ll have already heard of Free People, the premium lifestyle brand which has become known for its finely crafted and timeless pieces that don’t subscribe needlessly to fleeting trends. At

its heart you’ll find creativity, inclusivity, self-expressionism, and the championing of self-confidence; wholly important things Free People instils in all who wear its clothes. Everything you see is hand-touched and designed in-house at its Philadelphia headquarters, and made to be worn and loved for a lifetime.

While it may have been born in the U.S., Free People has been laying some meaningful roots in London of late. Of

“Anyone who has worn a Free People dress will attest to its magic” 48

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FASHION • PARTNERSHIP

course, you can shop it from the comfort of your sofa by way of its U.K.-dedicated website. However, with gorgeous brick-andmortar boutiques in Chelsea’s Duke of York Square and King’s Road, Floral Street in Covent Garden, and its retail latest offering in Notting Hill’s Westbourne Grove, to step inside any of its stores is to be reminded of what makes in-real-life shopping so lovely.

Ethereal dresses drape elegantly from castiron rails, while cosy knitted co-ords neatly adorn sprawling blonde wood surfaces.

Whichever boutique you choose to visit, rest assured nothing about them is crammed or chaotic. Truth be told, they feel more like chicly-curated (not to mention impressivelysized) walk-in closets than they do shops, which should be enough to tempt anyone out of their sartorial hibernation.

But what of the clothes? Well, that’s where things get really special. The thing that sets Free People apart from other brands is the story its clothing

tells — a story in which we want to be the protagonist. Let’s start with the dresses.

Anyone who has worn a Free People dress will attest to its magic. Often billowing and brimming with romanticism, Free People’s dresses transition seamlessly from winter to spring by the mere switch of a shoe or the addition of a coat (of which Free People also has countless excellent styles to choose from). Every occasion has been considered, too; there are alluring lace dresses designed with starlit strolls in mind, but also midis modelled in the softest fabrications for days spent snugly at home.

Still, it’s January, so we’d be remiss not to talk about knitwear; especially as Free People do it so well. Spun from delicate yarns in one-of-a-kind cuts, Free People’s jumpers and cardigans are some of the strongest we’ve seen, ensuring you look chic, all the while keeping you toasty. From cropped cable knits and patterned roll necks to reimagined Fair Isles and cashmere

in kaleidoscopic colours, no woolly base has been overlooked. Free People’s signature oversized aesthetic means its knitwear loans itself to pairing with anything, from leggings to slip skirts. And, naturally, denim.

Uncontrived, cool, and comfortable, denim and Free People go hand-in-hand. Sure, finding the perfect-fitting jeans might have been notoriously difficult in the past, but that’s all changed thanks to The Free People Denim Shop. Featuring clean and basic styling options so you can focus on the shape, fit, and look of the jeans themselves, we’ve never found it easier to browse online for new blues (or greys, or ecrus). In-store, the experience is just as smooth. With skinnies, ankle crops, flare jeans, and everything in-between, consider it the ultimate denim destination.

For many of us, an active lifestyle is integral to our mental wellbeing. This is something Free People believes in wholeheartedly and has poured this passion into its collection, FP Movement. Whether your exercise of choice is yoga, dance, running or surfing, it goes without saying that the clothing you wear needs to be comfortable and practical — but chic. You can complete this impressive triad and take on any workout with FP Movement’s range of high-performing, stylish threads.

Now that you’re better acquainted, we’re sure you’ll agree that Free People’s new-season line-up is as impressive as they come. Like its customers, its intelligent, creative, confident, and, above all else, comfortable approach to getting dressed is, ultimately, what makes it so unique and appealing. As we already mentioned, now is the time to use fashion as your escapism. So, whether you make a pilgrimage to one of its beautiful London stores, or lose yourself in its inspiring digital pages, transport yourself on a sartorially-led adventure to remember with Free People.

FREE PEOPLE Visit the new Free People store 188 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RH freepeople.com/uk

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FASHION • CARE

C A R E P A C K A G E

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LOOKING AFTER YOUR CLOTHES WELL MAKES THEM LAST LONGER AND LOOK NICER. HERE'S HOW

S T E A M P OW E R

ST E A M E RY ST O C K H O L M

Everyone should have a steamer.

There's no better way to refresh clothes while melting creases away and Steamery's minimalist design makes the Cirrus hand steamer a covetable item. Simply glide it over fabric as an alternative to both ironing and washing. £110 steamerystockholm.com

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2

HANG UP BR ABA NTIA

The Linn clothing rack in black or white is a substantial piece, maximising storage space with its height and clever adjustable shelves. Keep your clothes on display in your bedroom or use the rack for drying garments in the utility room. £149 brabantia.com

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BOBBLE BOBBLE ST E A M E RY ST O C K H O L M

Removing annoying and unsightly bobbles from cashmere sweaters and wool coats feels like an edless task. But Steamery's clever Pilo rechargeable shaver makes light work of reviving tired wool. Emptying the accumulated fluff from behind the blades is deeply satisfying too. £40 steamerystockholm.com

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I N T H E WA S H

ST E A M E RY ST O C K H O L M

This high-efficiency Delicate Laundry Detergent has been specially developed for delicate fabrics like wool and silk. It’s enzyme-free and contains Lanolin oil that cares for and protects the fibers, making them softer and giving them that extra luster. £18. steamerystockholm.com

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FRESH AIR

GARDEN TR ADING

Air drying is best for all clothes, but where to hang a load of laundry indoors? Garden Trading's stylish wooden Chalford ceiling dryer is the solution. £85 gardentrading.co.uk

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MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE v

with T H E www.thesoke.uk SOKE

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

YEAR-ROUND WELLNESS BUPA GLOBAL

At Bupa Global, wellness is our business. We’re committed to supporting people – physically, mentally and emotionally. We put you in control of your health with premium health insurance plans that are designed to be used. Giving you access to a range of preventive health and wellbeing services and a passport to world-leading medical expertise.

Helping keep you at your best, all year round.

For more information about Bupa Global premium health plans visit bupaglobal.com/withyou or talk to our Private Client team today on 0371 346 0409.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Calls may be recorded. Bupa Global is a trading name of Bupa Insurance Limited and Bupa Insurance Services Limited. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Bupa Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

CBD - The lowdown 56 • Eyecare focus 71 •New Year fitness 73 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury beauty and fragrance

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

FOCUS

EVELOM

CUSTOM CARE

The luxury brand on how to perfect your skin routine

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

F U N C T I O N O F B E AU T Y

L

Take ultra-customisable brand Function of Beauty's quiz and the clever algorithm will choose from 3 billion formulation possibilities to create a bespoke cleanser, serum and moisturiser for your skin. You can choose the fragrance and even get your name printed on the bottle.

From £19; functionofbeauty.com

Hair STORY FA B L E & M A N E

In Ayurveda, the hair is considered an extension of the body’s energy. Inspired by fond memories of their grandmother rubbing their scalps with oil, Fable & Mane founders Akash and Nikita Mehta created the HoliRoots hair oil, a blend of powerful ingredients to nourish the scalp and roots. £29; fabelandmane.com

SOAP OPERA L’O C C I TA N E

L’occitane’s founder Olivier Baussan inherited a soap factory in 1980, and the Provençal art of soap-making has inspired their new Bonne Mère collection. Sleek-looking and luxuriously fragranced, we love the Rhubarb & Basil soap made with olive oil from Provence. £6; uk.loccitane.com

EDITOR’S PICK

ots of people have adopted a maximalist attitude to skincare. But the truth is, a ten step routine isn’t for everyone,” says Erica Maccallum, Lead Trainer at luxury skincare brand Eve Lom. And she's right — it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the amount of ‘must-have’ products out there and the increasingly elaborate routines that everyone else seems to have.

Since when did multi-masking in the morning become a thing? Rather than piling on serum after serum, think quality not quantity. A hardworking cleanser is the foundation to good skin, and Eve Lom’s balm cleanser (£55) has cult status. The first product the brand released 35 years ago, it melts away everything with no need to double cleanse. I tell Erica I’ve been suffering with ‘mask-ne’ (blemishes from wearing a face mask) and she recommends the Eve Lom Rescue Mask (£55), a honey-infused kaolin clay mask that draws out impurities while comforting the skin. "Feel free to use different products on different parts of your face,” explains Erica. She also recommends applying a couple of drops of facial oil underneath moisturiser for extra hydration. “Our skin naturally produces oil so it sinks right in, whereas moisturiser sits on the top of the skin to seal everything.” After moisturiser, finish your daytime routine with an SPF to protect from anti-aging UV rays, pollution and free radicals.

EVELOM

evelom.com

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Chill

OUT I CBD continued to be a huge beauty trend in 2020.

But what’s all the fuss about?

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n 2020, you couldn’t have a conversation about beauty and wellbeing without CBD cropping up, and the trend shows no sign of stopping. Standing for cannabidiol, CBD is derived from hemp, a strain of the cannabis sativa plant. Unlike THC, which is found in marijuana and causes the ‘high’ feeling, CBD is non-psychoactive. Instead, it is hailed for its anti-inflammatory properties and health benefits, with CBD fans claiming it can aid sleep, reduce anxiety and even help period pain when ingested via the likes of oils, gummies and teas.

When applied topically, CBD has been shown to have plenty of superficial benefits due to its soothing nature. It can comfort

sensitive skin, reduce redness and calm blemishes. It's also an antioxidant, like Vitamic C, which prevents DNA damage to the skin caused by free radicals.

CBD was originally discovered in the 1940s but has recently gone mainstream (largely due to the wellness phenomenon coupled with a rise in anxiety). So of course, savvy beauty brands are cashing in on the ingredient, from Milk Makeup’s Kush lip balm to Biotulin’s cannabis eye cream (Jennifer Lopez is a fan, allegedly).

The Chillery aims to educate about CBD, as well as provide high-quality products for people to try. Founders Marisa Schwab and Floriane von der Forst acknowledge that CBD could

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • CBD

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BEYOU

UNIQUE

Despite the garish colour, BeYou's CBD bath salts are a great way to unwind.

Formulated with magnesiumrich Epsom salts, they aid sleep and sore muscles while releasing a relaxing lavender and chamomile scent.

Bath salts, £12.99 beyou.co.uk

An oil is an effective way to injest CBD for anxiety or sleep-related issues. Before bed, place a few drops of Unique's peppermint-flavoured 2,000mg CBD oil under the tongue and wait for one minute before swallowing.

Unique Night Drops, £135, uniquecbd.co.uk

“We still need more clinical studies to prove the effects of CBD”

be seen as a fad. “There is no doubt that CBD is being touted as a miracle ingredient, and every week there's a new health claim for it, which can make it pretty hard to believe,” they say. “But the second you dig a little deeper into the science behind how CBD interacts with the body, and the plethora of anecdotal evidence of CBD-infused products working wonders, you can understand why. We still need more clinical studies to prove what so many are saying from trying it themselves, but they will come.”

With so little scientific evidence of CBD's benefits, the only way is to try it for yourself. Here are some of Absolutely's favourite CBD products.

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GIB SON'S GOODOLOGY

THE BODY SHOP

Containing just five ingredients (fruit, tea, agave, lemon juice and 25mg pure CBD), a can of triple lab-tested Gibson's Goodology is a good alternative to sugary fizzy drinks. Ditch the diet coke and try the Shiso Tea & Blueberry instead.

Pack of three, £14.99 gibsonsgoodology.com

The Body Shop's three step soothing regime includes an Oil-Balm Cleansing Mask (£17), Restoring Facial Oil (£25) and Replenishing Moisture Cream, all with CBD, hemp seed oil, nourishing squalane and patchouli extract. A saviour for dry winter skin. thebodyshop.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Skin

DEEP

The experts at Skinfluencer explain why you should invest in your skin

By EVE HERBERT

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O

ften the skin is an outward reflection of the state of your health, both physically and psychologically.

The skin’s health, if compromised, can negatively affect your appearance and therefore your self-confidence. For this reason, whatever your age, it is worth investing in your skin. The good news is that it is never too late. According to experts such as Dr Tanja Phillips, Aesthetics and Laser expert at Skinfluencer, our lifestyle choices are often more impactful than our genes. “Your skin is influenced by extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors are generally something you cannot change as it is your genetic make-up, but extrinsic factors can absolutely be modified.”

Dr Phillips says one common lifestyle factor is prolonged exposure to UV radiation

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SKIN HEALTH

(UVR), and this can compromise the skin health enormously, leading to issues such as pigmentation and skin cancer, so she advocates protection to all her patients.

“Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen is the single most helpful thing anyone can do to improve their skin health.”

Dr Unnati Desai, a Skinfluencer aesthetics expert who has undertaken extensive postgraduate training in aesthetics procedures and dermatology agrees, “Melanocytes are the pigment cells found in the bottom later of the epidermis. Excess exposure to UVR can disrupt their function resulting in thread veins, loss of skin elasticity and tone, uneven pigmentation such as sunspots, age spots, freckles and rough texture to the skin from the build-up of dead skin cells.”

The lower level of the skin, the dermis, is rich in collagen, elastin and a good network of blood vessels that are needed for the plumpness, firmness, elasticity and strength of the skin, which Dr Unnati says can be adversely influenced by poor lifestyle choices. “Smoking, UVR and excess sugar intake can impact the production of new collagen and accelerate the ageing of the collagen network and elastin fibres.”

Unfortunately, as we age our skin changes dramatically, becoming thinner and rougher which can make it adopt unhealthy hallmarks including dullness, dryness, visible blood cells and larger pores. “From our mid-20s we start to lose collagen at an average of 1% per year and the amount of hyaluronic acid and fat also reduces,” explains Dr Phillips. “This leads to thinner skin and thinner blood vessel walls,

causing facial redness and the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of ageing.”

Of course, these alterations can be somewhat mitigated by following simple steps, says Dr Phillips. “Stay out of strong sunlight, drink plenty of water, reduce alcohol intake and think about nourishing your skin from the inside out by taking supplements. A good skincare routine, which includes treatments and products that have been professionally recommended, is also a must.”

As one of the world’s leading aesthetics laser experts, Dr Phillips wholeheartedly endorses lasers and believes they allow the skin to improve without the need for medications or injectables, enabling the body’s largest organ to function in the best way it can. In fact, many of her patients claim lasers are like a “magic wand” when in her hands. “Lasers are unique in

“Using sunscreen is the most helpful thing you can do to improve skin” their approach and there are numerous patented treatments available that have an incredible effect on various complaints including wrinkles, acne, rosacea, without any downtime for patients,” she says.

Of course, any in-clinic treatment results need to be maintained at home and this is where the power of a good

skincare regime comes into play, says Peter Roberts from Skinmed, a UK-based company that offers treatment protocols for a variety of skin conditions, including acne, rosacea and anti-ageing. “Medical grade products known as cytoceuticals, which are only available from a medical clinic, can really improve and optimise the activity and function of all skin cells.”

This genre of products, which includes results-driven brands such as ZO Skin and Tebiskin, differ from over-the-counter products because they contain a higher percentage of the active ingredients, as well as unique patented ingredients that you do not see in their high street cosmeticbased rivals. “The active ingredients last longer as they have been stabilised or microencapsulated to avoid degeneration.

They can penetrate the waterproof epidermis rather than sitting on the surface of the skin,” explains Roberts.

“The products have been proven in clinical studies to effect real skin changes and are fully licensed for the treatment of medical conditions. These are not cosmetics.”

With a multitude of products available, how can you decipher between what you should have in your arsenal and what is purely optional? “A medicated face wash is a must, and many will contain a chemical exfoliator that removes the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This also helps to reduce pore size and improve uneven tone and fine lines,” says Roberts. “I would also recommend a Vitamin C-based product and a face cream that is skin-specific, but which contains UV protection.”

When it comes to moisturisers, Roberts advises the use of ceramides, which are one of the skin’s natural hydrating factors and improves the waterproof barrier function of the epidermis. “Ceramides can emolliate the skin and improve the symptoms of so many dry skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis, leaving your skin looking and feeling its healthiest.”

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SKIN HEALTH

ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS (AHAS)

DR TANJA PHILLIPS Skinfluencer’s resident aesthetic doctor and laser expert shares the skincare ingredients needed for optimum skin health

There are many types of AHAs but one of the most commonly used in skin care is glycolic acid; it is incredibly beneficial to the skin. The top layer of the skin is called the epidermis and it is constantly producing skin cells which gradually work their way up to the uppermost external surface of the skin. By the time these cells have got there they have experienced some damage. Glycolic acid works as a chemical exfoliator to allow the gentle elimination of these dead skin cells, revealing the healthy skin cells that lie beneath and leaving brighter fresher skin with a more even skin tone and reduced pigmentation.

VITAMIN C

On a daily basis our skin gets damaged by numerous environmental factors including UVA/B, blue light and pollution, which makes the skin produce free radicals, causing oxidative stress and ultimately accelerating the ageing process. In such cases, Vitamin C can come to the rescue, stabilising the skin and therefore prevents accelerated ageing - genius!

Vitamin C is very unstable and reacts readily when exposed to air or sunlight, so the Vitamin C you purchase needs to be in the right form and have the right delivery method to make any difference to your skin.

(Many products will not have this and so by the time you have opened the product, all the Vitamin C has been made inactive). My go-to is ZO Skin health C bright 10 % that is activated on contact with the skin’s natural water barrier. It is a water-free formula and provides a potent dose of Vitamin C.

“Glycolic acid is incredibly beneficial for skin” VITAMIN A

This is known by multiple names, including retinoids, retinol, retinoic acid, retinyl and retinal. Each derivative has to be converted by the skin into retinoic acid to be effective, therefore straight retinoic acid is the most potent.

In its many forms, Vitamin A is a key ingredient in anti-ageing formulas as it has the ability to increase collagen production therefore slowing down the ageing process. Retinoids also gently exfoliate the skin and improve cellular turnover and growth, making it an effective treatment for sun damage and hyperpigmentation as well as for acne.

There are two golden rules with Vitamin A derivates. Firstly, always start with a low concentration because this gives the skin time to adjust and respond to the ingredient. Introduce it gradually into your routine, perhaps once a week, and gradually build this up. Secondly, always wear a good sunscreen during the day when using Vitamin A derivates - it is imperative to protect your skin as these products will make your skin more sensitive.

S K I N F LU E N C E R 307 Fulham Road, SW10 9QH skin-fluencer.com

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TO P T R E AT M E N T S Luxurious treatments for embracing self care in 2021

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AGUA LONDON

RH LONDON

HAMMAMII GIFT SET

HAIR TRANSFORMATION Wo r d s A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

T AGUA AT HOME DIY SPA

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gua London, the spa at Sea Containers London, offers two wonderful at-home pamper kits for a DIY spa treatment. The Made for Life: Embrace the Day Set is both invigorating and calming. It includes a lemongrass and marigold body scrub and a soothing balm for muscles and joints with rosemary, chamomile, calendula and lavender. The Hammamii Gift Set is designed to replicate a traditional Turkish bath; there's a black soap infused with eucalyptus and a super refreshing Moroccan tea body wash incorporating five different types of wild mint. Finally, there's a mask made of clay, mined from beneath the Atlas Mountains, to detoxify the skin and draw out impurities. Light some candles, put on some relaxing music and enjoy an evening of me-time. From £85 seacontainerslondon.com

he ultimate destination for independent shopping in Chelsea, Walton Street boasts a plethora of beautiful retailers and eateries. And now it’s home to RH London, the new flagship salon for ethical hair extension experts Richy Hair UK. Known for transforming thin, lifeless hair into full-bodied (and totally natural-looking) locks, the team houses over 40 shades of premium hair and can do everything from tapes to Keratin bonds. A clever piece is the Hair Flow, an ultra-thin wire that you can slip on. It sits undetected on your head, instantly adding length and volume. Makeup artist Armand Beasley is also on-hand, should you require some extra glamour. As well as extensions, RH London offers a full-service of hair treatments, from styling to colouring. I have a simple cut and blow dry by Cristina, who turns my flat and shapeless ‘do into a voluminous long bob with beachy waves, which suits my face shape incredibly well. A post-treatment Walton Street wander ends the afternoon perfectly. £130 65 Walton Street, SW3 2HT rh-london.com

MINDFUL FACIAL

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • REVIEWS

DANIELLE COLLINS

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MINDFUL FACIAL AT DR JACK

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he Mindful Facial at Dr Jack’s Harley Street clinic combines a rejuvenating facial with hypnotherapy. It begins with a call from award-winning hypnotherapist Malminder Gill, and we discuss my stress levels and emotional needs — she assures me there won’t be any Derren Brown-style antics. When I arrive for my treatment, facialist Izabela chats to me about my skin concerns before Malminder enters and we begin.

With soothing music playing, Izabela cleanses my face before a peel and dermaplaning, which gently scrapes away the top layer of skin. Meanwhile, Malminder’s voice guides me through visualisation exercises, putting me in a state of deep relaxation as she talks about being more confident, worrying less and sleeping better. The results are dramatic. My skin is baby-smooth and bright, and the next day, makeup glides on astonishingly well. Malminder’s hypnotherapy was incredibly soothing, and she sends me a recorded version to listen to at home once a week. £500 96 Harley Street, W1G 7HY drdavidjackclinic.com

RH LONDON

BEA SKINCARE'S LED MASK

FACE YOGA

BY DANIELLE COLLINS Wo r d s E V E H E R B E R T

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anielle Collins is a worldleading expert in face yoga. Designed to lift, firm and plump the skin while relaxing and releasing tension from facial muscles, face yoga involves regularly practising a number of acupressure, massage and strength training exercises. Face yoga can also improve lymphatic drainage and reduce the appearance of dull skin, dark circles and crow’s feet. Rooted in established traditions such as Chinese medicine, Ayurveda and Shiatsu, there is also plenty of modern evidence to support face yoga's benefits. A study

by Northwestern University found that participants who practised face yoga for 30 minutes a day, 20 days in a row ended up looking an average of three years younger. Danielle’s online video course teaches you ten minutes of face yoga a day for ten days. It also comes with a copy of Danielle’s book, which has all the exercises in plus lots of handy tips. Danielle recommends taking before and after photos, and ten days later there is certainly a difference in how lifted and ‘alive’ my face looks. After each session, I can feel the energising sensation of blood pumping round my head and my cheeks look perkier. I’m a face yoga convert. £29.99 faceyogaexpert.com

BEA SKINCARE

PHOTODYNAMIC FACIAL MASK Wo r d s A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

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ED light therapy is the latest huge trend in beauty tech.

It’s been used for years by facialists, but at-home LED masks have shot up in popularity thanks to the likes of Kourtney Kardashian and Chrissy Teigen posing on Instagram with the futuristic-looking (and slightly creepy) face shields. You may be sick of wearing a face mask, but this kind can do wonders for your skin. LED therapy emits varying wavelengths of light onto the skin to trigger your body’s natural cell rejuvenation. Different types of light have different benefits: red boosts collagen and reduces inflammation, blue tackles acne bacteria and amber helps lymphatic drainage. The Bea Skincare Photodynamic Facial Mask is a fantastic at-home alternative to a professional LED session. You put it on like a pair of glasses and the clear plastic shield covers your face. Unlike UV rays, LED light is completely safe for the skin. The only downside is, the Bea mask doesn’t come with anything to cover the eyes — it’s fine to just close them, but I find it more comfortable to pop an eye mask on while I rest for 10-20 minutes. £99 bea-skincare.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH Your health matters, all the time. So our private health plans give you access to medical experts 24/7, without having to leave your home.

Just one way we’re with you. Today, for the everyday and whatever’s next.

Search Bupa Global or call 0371 346 0409

Global

Calls may be recorded. Bupa Global is a trading name of Bupa Insurance Limited and Bupa Insurance Services Limited. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Bupa Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

“Find a lawyer who tries to deescalate rather than inflame relations” 2 Think carefully about which lawyer to instruct. Find a lawyer you trust to guide you through the divorce process with care and compassion. Those couples who go on to achieve a constructive divorce recognise that the kind of lawyer who tries to de-escalate, rather than inflame, relations between the couple, and narrows rather than widens areas of disagreement, will make all the difference to the path their divorce takes.

DEALING WITH

DIVORCE

Family Law in Partnership explain how to maintain your wellbeing during a divorce B y F A M I LY L AW I N P A R T N E R S H I P

Y

ou might think that wellbeing and divorce are complete opposites.

How can a divorce be anything but damaging to your mental and physical health? Divorce is the second biggest life stressor, after the death of a partner, so it comes as no surprise that divorce can be detrimental to your wellbeing.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to maintain and even promote your wellbeing during a divorce. Our first-hand experience shows that these steps can make your journey through divorce so much easier.

FLIP’S TOP 5 TIPS:

1 Recognise that divorce has emotional as well as legal repercussions, and that it is vital to tend to both. Paying attention to the emotional aspects of separation in a conscious and deliberate way can allow the legal process to run more smoothly and quickly. It is a common misconception that relationship counsellors exist to save marriages. In fact, relationship counsellors very often play an instrumental role in helping people to leave relationships constructively, for the future wellbeing of the individual and their children. It is important to accept that this is going to be an emotionally difficult experience.

3 Focus first on the welfare of your children. They did not ask for the divorce and are often the ones paying the highest price for it. Thinking through what it is like for them and then doing your absolute best by them has never worked out badly for any parent.

4 Bear in mind the ‘bigger picture’.

The ending of a relationship is often an emotionally challenging, and at times overwhelming, experience. When you are in the middle of this whirlwind of uncertainty, it can be exceedingly hard to recognise which issues are relevant to the legal process. A good family lawyer will provide invaluable guidance on the points that are worth pursuing in legal, financial and emotional terms.

5 Find comfort in the experiences of others. Your experience of divorce will be unique to you. But you may find comfort in hearing about how others have navigated the choppy waters of divorce. Take a look at FLiP’s divorce diaries (divorcediaries.co.uk) for an insight into how others have coped.

Relationship breakdown is hard and it can be an emotional rollercoaster for many. However, with a conscious commitment to adopting a constructive approach whilst looking after your emotional and physical wellbeing, you can look to the future once more.

FA M I LY L AW I N PA R T N E R S H I P FLiP takes a unique approach to family law, guiding you with exceptional legal expertise, integrity, and specialist emotional and practical support. flip.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

workspace, which can be exited after the working day is over, can really help.”

It also means imposing psychological boundaries too, ensuring that both work time and family time are protected. For some, this means shutting down emails and collaborative technologies once the working day is over or reducing non-urgent calls at weekends. For others, preserving lunch breaks and time to exercise is particularly important.

“IT’S CRUCIAL TO CREATE CLEAR BOUNDARIES”

Business as UNUSUAL

F

Protecting your wellbeing while working from home

or many people, the home is the place they return to, to unburden themselves of the stresses and strains of life.

But during the pandemic many aspects of life have merged, and homes have had to provide not only a safe-haven for individuals and their families, but a functional space to work too.

Recent data from Bupa Global’s Executive Wellbeing Index1, shows that 38 per cent of

high-net-worth individuals plan to continue working flexibly from home, and almost one in five will work from their holiday home.

But mental health experts advise that the blurring of divisions between work and home-life and the impact on wellbeing can be complex.

So, what steps can people take to protect their family space and wellbeing and ensure the ‘home-boardroom’ is productive and fulfilling?

STAY FOCUSED ON THE ‘LIFE-WORK’ BALANCE YOU WANT For many, life is not going back to ‘business as usual’ anytime soon.

Bupa Global’s research found that more than half of global executives do not plan to return to the same fast pace of life, and many have spent more time focusing on their wellbeing, passions and hobbies.

“This is important for protecting wellbeing and mental health. We also believe that individuals, families and employers must be committed to talking openly about concerns, and to seeking help early,” says Dr James.

GET HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT

CREATE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL BOUNDARIES

Stigmas around mental health conditions can lead to delays in getting treatment.

But early diagnosis can have a positive impact on the long-term prognosis.

Dr James concludes: “At Bupa Global, we recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health and believe in helping people to feel their best and stay that way too. We know that when a family member is struggling with their mental health, it can impact the whole family – that’s why we offer extensive mental health cover for individuals and their families.”

For Dr Luke James, Bupa Global’s Medical Director, it’s crucial to create clear boundaries at home: “We hear from many executives that they’re not able to turn off, or that they’re struggling to concentrate, and it’s here where a physical

For more information about Bupa Global premium health plans visit bupaglobal.com/withyou or talk to our Private Client team today on 0371 346 0409

B U PA G LO B A L

Calls may be recorded. Bupa Global is a trading name of Bupa Insurance Limited and Bupa Insurance Services Limited. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Bupa Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

1. Bupa Global Executive Wellbeing Index (September 2020). Research conducted among 450 high net worth individuals and senior executives across UK, France, USA, UAE and Egypt

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Bringing together two world-renowned names in healthcare and medical research, the Health and Wellness Plan from Mayo Clinic Healthcare in partnership with Oxford University Clinic combines access to an unrivalled network of international medical experts with world-class diagnostic and screening facilities.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND EDITOR’S PICK

NARLOA Pink Detox Bath Soak, £13 narloa.com

MOO HAIR Miracle Conditioner, £22 mooandyoo.com

HEAVEN Nettle Venom AntiAgeing Eye Cream, £55 heavenskincare.com

TYPOLOGY 5 Vitamins Complex, £31.80 typology.com

AKT Deodorant Balm, £18 each aktlondon.com

ESTRID Vegan Razor Starter Kit, £7.95 estrid.com

VEGAN BEAUTY

Cruelty-free doesn't equal vegan — these products are all ethical and effective

CHANTECAILLE Zebra Luminescent Eye Shade, £48 chantecaille.co.uk

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

NATURA SIBERICA C-Berrica Collection, from £5.49 naturasiberica.co.uk

UPCIRCLE Clarifying Face Mask, £18.99 upcirclebeauty.com

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EYE S P Y

Spectacles have never been more stylish. Absolutely visits some of London’s best eyesight destinations

Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E & A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

F I N L AY L O N D O N

Finlay London’s background is in fashion.

The brand started out as designers of wooden sunglasses, but it’s come a long way since then, and now the focus is on eyecare as well as eyewear; they have an expansive own-brand collection of frames (Meghan Markle has been spotted wearing several of them) and they have shops in Notting Hill and Soho. “Glasses can be the first thing you notice about someone,” says co-founder Dane Butler. “And trends in eyewear tend to last between three and seven years. So it’s not unusual for people to own four or five pairs of glasses.” And probably more sunglasses.

The Finlay collection is unisex, and frames come in a wide variety of colours and shapes.

At the Notting Hill store, choosing frames to suit is aided by friendly and decisive staff who will tell you what suits you as well as what will work best for your prescription.

There’s a curated selection of frames from Finlay’s favourite brands in addition to their own brand, and downstairs is a special area for children. It’s a nice place to be, and the eye test is almost enjoyable. finlayandco.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • OPTICALS TAYLOR MORRIS

T AY L O R M O R R I S

“Glasses can be the first thing you notice about someone”

Taylor Morris has been in the business of sunglasses since they launched in Harvey Nichols in 2013. But it wasn't until 2020 that they launched opticals, in a chic new shop in Golborne Road. Despite lockdown, they're thrving in their new home which is designed to be a fun place to hang, with a bar and a relaxed vibe. Plans for the shop to host events are currently on hold, but appointments for choosing your frames are very much on. There's no testing, so you have to bring your own prescription, but glasses are made up in just a couple of days. Alongside a good selection of acetate frames in lots of colours is a stylish selection of metal ones – very popular in Europe – and pricing is easy, with most single vision glassses at £125. As an independent eyewear brand, Taylor Morris believes in keeping costs down and they're also too serious to see glasses as fashion pieces to change with the seasons. The collection is set to grow, though, so the temptation to build up a spectacle wardrobe is real. taylormorriseyewear.com

TH E EY E PL AC E

The Eye Place is owned and operated by third-generation optometrist Alex Kemp, who strives to provide a ‘different’ level of eyecare. He has spent the last two decades building an enviable reputation founded on using state of the art and cutting-edge technology.

With six locations, Alex has created a custom level of eye examination which is now The Eye Place standard. His eye examination harnesses the full power of specialist eye health technology and using their newest piece of technology, spectacles can be dispensed from a distance taking the precise measurements needed to suit the individual to create lenses personalised to the user and their needs.

Eyewear brands are selected from around the world for their individuality and high quality. From super premium eyewear made from luxurious materials to on-trend brands via mid-range and budget, there is something to suit all styles and budgets. the-eye-place.co.uk

AUERBACH AND STEELE

AU E R BAC H A N D STE E LE

THE EYE PLACE

Auerbach and Steele’s store on the King’s Road is large and bright, with colourful frames lining the walls like little pieces of art. There is a children’s area, a private room for those who would like to try on frames discreetly and even a small garden - a far cry from the usual dingy examination rooms.

The glasses on offer are contemporary and cool, unusual colours paired with innovative shapes that make a statement. Specs are no longer a symbol of bookishness or a lack of glamour; they are a fashion accessory.

As well as being a pioneer in optical style, Auerbach and Steele prides itself on clinical excellence. The state-of-the-art machinery is exquisite and the whole atmosphere of the King’s Road store paired with the brilliant advice from the sales assistants makes for a pleasant - even fun - experience. auerbach-steele.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS

TOP

PICKS

NOTES

ECO-ATHLEISURE BRANDS

By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

CONTUR All of Contur's pieces are crafted in London and made from Econyl, 100% recycled yarn from ocean plastics.

The Afresh Crop top (£49.99) and Newfound shorts (£39.99) are sweat-wicking, sillhouetteenhancing and super stretchy. contour.com

FA B L E Fable Pro Mats are not only longer and wider than the average exercise mat but they are super grippy so you can sweat without slipping; we love it for home yoga practice.

Plus it's made with biodegradable natural tree rubber and for every mat sold, one tree is planted. fableyoga.com

BODY BE AUTIFUL Absolutely tries PT Aimee Victoria Long’s Body Beautiful Method

S H O R I ZO N AT H L E T I C Professional athlete Marlena Gabriel is behind Horizon, the Australian brand with a mission to encourage people to buy better and less often. Their Econyl activewear and swimwear is designed to be exposed to chlorine, salt water, UV rays and sun cream. horizonathletic.co.uk

ince the start of the pandemic, my fitness habits have jolted from one extreme to another.

I’m either doing regular online classes, counting my steps like a maniac, and drinking green smoothies or I’m lying on the sofa, glass of wine in hand, steadily working my way through a multipack of Tyrrells crisps.

At the time of writing, London is about to enter Tier 3 and I’ve decided it’s time to find some balance. I enlist the help of Aimee Victoria Long, a personal trainer, pilates instructor and barre specialist whose BodyBeautiful

Method has transformed the bodies (and minds) of her clients. Combining a unique mix of disciplines from pilates to strength and conditioning, BodyBeautiful clients are given a training and nutrition programme to help them achieve their goals and get them feeling energised, happier and stronger.

“You need to consistently stick to a routine and do something you actually enjoy,” explains Aimee. “There is no point forcing yourself out for a run each morning if you hate running.”

Aimee offers three types of online classes, which she conducts

via small group Zoom sessions.

Barre (from Foundations to Advanced), Dynamic Pilates (with moves inspired by reformer pilates) and Sculpt (a mix of barre and pilates using ankle and wrist weights).

I sign up for the Sculpt class, which I’m slightly apprehensive about as I’ve never done a group lesson via Zoom. I soon realise that firstly, no one is even looking at me (the moves are challenging and require a lot of focus) and secondly, Zoom allows for more personal interactions than one-way online classes. Aimee provides plenty of encouragement and adjustments to make sure your form is perfect.

The class is tough and gets my glutes and abs fired up within minutes. The next day I have the telltale muscle ache that proves my body has worked really hard. I've finally escaped my fitness rut. aimeevictorialong.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

Human

KY N D

CBD health products from We are Kynd are not only luxurious and high-quality but ethical too

By EVE HERBERT

C “If 2020 has shown us anything, it's how important our and our loved ones' health is”

BD oil is now hugely popular as more of us look beyond the confines of the chemist in a bid to take greater control over our wellbeing and explore new ways in which we can find solutions to our health problems. But there are now so many CBD products to choose from that it can be tough to know what constitutes a really great ethical product…

Our range of high-quality, luxury branded, sustainably sourced CBD health products are all responsibly tested in certified labs within Europe. All of our products are certified organic vegan and comply with GMP, ISO & FSSC 2020.

If 2020 has shown us anything it’s how important our and our loved ones' health is. Above all else our products are designed to help in the most natural and Kynd way possible. Research suggests CBD oil can help with a wide scope of ailments, from mental health issues such as anxiety and depression to physical disorders such as, chronic pain, symptoms of MS, arthritis (commonly worsened as the cold weather draws in), epilepsy and even cancer patients have been recorded to reap the benefits of cannabidiol. As this list continues to grow with a continuum of recommendations from people suffering with varying health problems, is it any wonder people are looking to swap synthetic medication for a natural alternative?

The cornerstone of our business is our belief that the planet is precious and that as its human inhabitants we must conduct all aspects of life in such a way that we do as much as we can to minimise harm and give back. This belief was fostered when Lewis Rixon, founder of We are Kynd

spent long periods of time in Malaysia, Borneo and Indonesia witnessing firsthand the devastation and pollution both in the sea and on shore. He resolved that any business he founded would not play any part in contributing to this – ocean or landfill. All materials we use are 100% recyclable from our glass bottles, and packaging right down to the vegetable ink we print with, so we can proudly say we are a responsible and sustainable company.

We have also made the commitment to our partner charity One Tree Planted, for every order that we receive, we plant one tree. It’s Lewis’ goal in the next 12 months that We are Kynd will have contributed to the planting of 1,000 trees. Watch this space and hopefully it will be filled with trees.

WE ARE KYND We are Kynd is a family-run business that is focused on the greater good. Join the movement today. wearekynd.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS

BU I LT TO LA ST POGGENPOHL

The world's oldest kitchen brand, Poggenpohl, has put its stamp on generations of bespoke kitchens made from the highest quality materials. Combining beautiful design with high performance and function, Poggenpohl creates spaces for cooking and entertaining with confidence. poggenpohl.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Interior inspirations 78 • How to choose a sofa 88 • Calendars for 2021 95 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS NOT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

NEW LOOKS VIVENSE

Just opened in Borough High Street is new homeware store Vivense, which crafts honest materials into beautiful products with great care, whether oak, seagrass, brass or velvet, whether carved, sprung, painted or woven. They gather stories around them in the spaces they live, of thoughtful corners, hide and seek, lamplit laughter, friends and family. vivenselondon.com

M E TA L H E A D S ELIZABETH OCKFORD

Gingko is a group of contemporary wallpaper designs featuring elements of metallurgy and mineralogy, both in design and in the colour palette. Shimmering metallic colours combine with textural finishes and a modern design style. elizabethockford.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Planters

ELHO Vibes pots, from £4.89 elho.com

CLASSIC FO R M S

O N T H E S U R FAC E STONE CIRCLE

Stone Circle manufactures stone products for domestic and contract use in one of the largest stonemasonry factories in England. Pictured is a smooth Bianco Lasa quartzite island with counter top and shelves in the same stone behind. stone-circle.com

FALCON

Falcon Enamelware has launched two beautiful new limited edition colours for 2021. Pale Lilac is a sublte and versatile shade, while Mineral Blue is vivid with intense depth and luminosity. Jug £34; tumbler £7. falconenamelware.com

HABITAT Zeta ceramic and gold pot, £30 habitat.co.uk

LEAF ENVY Small hanging clay planter, £24 leafenvy.co.uk

OFF THE HOOK

OKA Daqing planter, £295 oka.com

5MM PAPER

MONDAY

This collection of wood and ceramic hooks is carefully crafted in Portugal from high quality beech wood and ceramic with the option to add a sturdy leather strap to hang accessories.

Combine them any way you like.

5mmpaper.com.com

Terrazzo planter, £35 mondayonline.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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bringing stone to life for over 50 years

www.stone-circle-home.com | 0333 003 0621 showroom open by appointment only

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photo & artwork | marco joe fazio

stonework for the discerning client

2020-12-15 12:16 PM

INTERIORS • ACCESSORIES

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L I G H T W O R K STYLISH AND ESSENTIAL GADGETS FOR YOUR KITCHEN

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DRIP DRIP SMEG

The Smeg drip coffee machine allows you to prepare a deliciously aromatic, richly-flavoured coffee with the option of selecting the aroma intensity you prefer. £179.95 smeguk.com

2

HOOKED UP KITCHENAID

KitchenAid's iconic Artisan Mixer is an essential bit of kit for any serious kitchen. Use it for whisking egg whites, kneading dough, beating batter and more. kitchenaid.co.uk

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ON THE FIZZ S O DA S T R E A M

Take the pressure off your recycling bin and make your own fizzy water with Sodastream's compact and efficient Spirit machine. It comes in a wide range of colours too. £99 sodastream.co.uk

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4

H OT S H OT SMEG

Smeg's stylish espresso machine, with its 1950s-inspired curves, is as functional as it is chic.

With a bit of practice you'll be preparing high class brews in your own kitchen. £319.95 smeguk.com

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5

COOL KET TLE H AY

The Sowden kettle shares the same distinctive family of colour combinations as the rest of George Sowden’s collection, making a statement in any kitchen. £95 hay.dk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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O PE N H O U SE 82

Ultramarine blue became the starting point for the kitchen

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INTERIORS • FOCUS

A carefully constructed refurbishment created lots more usable space in this west London family home Words E V E H E R B E R T

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • FOCUS

W The family wanted an open kitchen-dining area where they could entertain their friends

“The deep ultramarine shade was carried through into the dining area, hallway and sitting room”

ith their children grown up and pursuing further education, the owners of this property wanted to turn their home into a sophisticated space that the whole family could enjoy. Although generously sized, it was a typical period property with a warren of dark rooms that didn’t suit modern life. As avid foodies and cooks, the family wanted an open kitchen-dining area where they could entertain their friends, with plentiful storage and a connection to the garden.

The house resides in a conservation area, so there were restrictions in place which limited what the clients could change. However, with a revised planning application, Hux London’s Design + Build project partners, Zulufish, were able to implement the new layout and open up the ground floor, moving the kitchen from the middle to the back of the house to make it the hub of the home.

As a favourite colour of the clients, ultramarine blue became the starting point for the kitchen and ground floor design – this fresh hue extends to the garden to bring together the indoors and outdoors and creates a unified space. The deep ultramarine shade was chosen for the handmade shaker style kitchen cabinetry with solid timber dovetail drawers, and then carried through into the dining area, hallway and sitting room in the form of bold artworks, striking tiles, and sumptuous upholstery.

Now a snug, this was the darkest room with the least going for it architecturally.

The formal sitting room is an elegant space

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Great Sleep Starts Here Treca Paris have developed a reputation for quality across the globe, becoming an important brand offering premium luxury and beautiful French craftsmanship and design with each mattress.

Choose from a selection of models from the best manufacturer in Europe with a fantastic reputation for world leading, adjustable quality beds that provide years of trouble-free use.

215 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, London, SW14 8QT Tel: 020 7723 2925

www.westendbedcompany.com

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INTERIORS • FOCUS In the master suite a calming scheme was created with soft, neutral tones and rich textures

The open kitchen area now includes a glamorous dining space that the family uses every day

Rather than bring in lots of pattern, plenty of natural textures were chosen, such as marble, hammered brass and fluted glass to add interest. The clients are a foodie family and have multiple gadgets and machines to assist with cooking, so HUX London incorporated ample storage to provide space for their requirements.

Through clever planning, a new layout and increased storage, they opened up the space and created a feeling that the clients have a much bigger house. The result is a grown-up space the whole family can enjoy.

Bespoke cabinetry provides ample storage, and on one section beautiful fluted panels hide a TV. The cabinetry is complemented by a spectacular book-matched marble splash-back, and timber, parquet flooring, which extends throughout the ground floor. The open kitchen area now includes a glamorous dining space that the family uses every day. Now a snug, the former kitchen was the darkest room with the least going for it architecturally.

A cool and cosy space was created with elegant bespoke wall-panelling, a low corner sofa, stylish wall lamps

“Rather than bring in lots of pattern, plenty of natural textures were chosen ”

Bespoke cabinetry provides ample storage, and beautiful fluted panels hide a TV.

and a wood-burning stove. The formal sitting room is an elegant space where the family plays music. A sumptuous teal sofa, a hand-knotted silk and wool rug and a vibrant abstract artwork bring a fresh feel.

A bespoke joinery unit with open shelving and base cabinets adds warmth and character to the room.

In the master suite a calming scheme was created with soft, neutral tones and rich textures leading to a gorgeous marble-clad en-suite bathroom.

The couple now have their own dedicated study, a streamlined bespoke double desk and cabinetry. It has a comfortable elegant feel ideal for home working.

In the master suite, the sloping ceilings were maximised with bespoke wardrobes. The teenager’s bedroom with its dusky grey & soft blush palette in luxurious finishes also has a beautiful bespoke desk area and cabinetry. hux-london.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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SWYFT MODEL 01

B O X F R E S H Can a sofa really fit in a box?

Absolutely finds out

By PENDLE HARTE

T

he seven boxes may be huge, and stacked up together they block all light from the window. But even so there has been no problem getting them inside the house, despite the narrow entrance. Because it’s a common problem – having spent months agonising over dimensions, you’ve finally decided on the perfect sofa. It’s going to look fabulous in your living room and you’re even feeling quite smug about your careful measurements. But when the big day arrives, the two-man delivery isn’t able to manoeuvre the vast item through the front

88

door, through the hall and into its rightful sitting room spot. The angles are too tight, the corner is prohibitive. The result: no sofa, a return negotiation and a new search.

But there is another way. A new generation of sofas solves the problem of access with the clever sofa in a box concept.

Or seven boxes, which is what I’m looking at. Inside this mountain of cardboard is a modular sofa just waiting to get out, though the idea of putting it together ourselves is a bit daunting. Apparently no tools are needed, apart from large scissors to attack the packaging. Instructions have been emailed separately, according to a large sticker on the box, but once we have got through the (frankly quite challenging) cardboard and plastic, it’s apparent that there’s really no need for a diagram because

SWYFT MODEL 02

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INTERIORS • SPOTLIGHT

Checklist Choosing a new sofa can be challenging. Here Kelly Collins of Swyft Home offers her advice

Size matters

Quite possibly the most important question has to be: ‘does it fit?’. Many London homes have tight entrances which can be tricky to navigate. It’s especially important to consider this in flats, because what if you’re not able to get it through the door or up the stairs? Some sofas might look great on Pinterest, but realistically it’s important to to think about what fits your space.

What look do you want?

SWYFT MODEL 03

the sofa’s construction is entirely selfexplanatory. Yes, putting it together is a two-man job, but only because the clever slip-and-slide mechanism needs a bit of force from both directions (but only a tiny bit - this isn’t a strength game). Even someone lacking in spatial skills can see immediately how it fits together, and with a little bit of strategic thought, we are able to construct the thing in minutes. In terms of difficulty, you could say it’s trickier than changing a lightbulb but much easier than building, say, a Playmobil carpark, or a flatpack chest of drawers.

The box philosophy even solves the follow-up problem: moving house with a sofa, because dismantling is as simple as the initial build, and each piece can easily be carried by one person. You might even be able to fit a sofa in your car, though I haven’t tried that.

Swyft’s Model 03 is the online sofa company’s only modular design and it’s a flexible option. Our three-seater with ottoman feels huge, solid and comfortable and it’s futureproof too – we could add to it with another piece if we needed and the stain-proof linen covering is designed to survive the worst that family life can throw at it. There are said to be 17 different possible configurations, which is good news for anyone who enjoys moving their furniture around.

And best of all, Swyft is not a believer in the six-week wait. They can deliver in as little as 24 hours. There are three designs available at the moment, with more to come this year. So if a new sofa is on your list for 2021, you’ll be able to tick it off quickly and easily. swyfthome.com

A sofa is an investment piece, so it’s understandably nerve-wracking to make a final decision. Essentially, you have two options: statement or neutral. A statement sofa in a bold orange velvet is bound to add character to a space, but impact can be added just as well with bold cushions and throws. If you aren’t sure, why not try a neutral tone and go bigger on the accessories?

Go with the flow

It’s important that your sofa flows nicely with the design of the room. Modular sofas are a great choice for rooms that need to serve more than one purpose, as you can create just about any shape, from the popular L style to a curvy U. Try separating off a section of the living room with a chaise to make the sofa work for you in the space you have.

Form and function

What will you be using the sofa for and where will it be positioned? Will it be directly in front of the TV for chilling and lounging? Or you may want it spaced out for socialising with family and friends. If you need to seat a large number of people, why not choose a three-seater sofa with an ottoman option for perching? If you move your spaces around a lot, modular sofas are perfect as modules can be added or removed.

Focus on a solid frame

SWYFT MODEL 03

If you plan to make a lot of use of the sofa, make sure you invest in a good wood frame. Be wary of particleboard or metal construction, but a solid hardwood frame is a good option. Also, take note of the guarantee before you commit – always opt for manufacturers who offer at least a 15-year guarantee.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • TREND MADE Avalon three seater sofa, £1199 made.com

BONALDO Lovy sofa, £3874 fcilondon.co.uk

LIGNE ROSET Togo sofa, from £1934 chaplins.co.uk

ROSE & GREY Didsbury sofa, £1595 roseandgrey.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

MADE Merton chaise, £799 xxxxxxxxxx.com

SOFA.COM Remy sofa, £1500 sofa.com

SABA Essentiel sofa, £2250 gomodern.co.uk

HAPPY PLACE All the best sofas for winter lounging

By P E N D L E H A R T E

MADE Rosslyn Click Clack sofa bed, £399 made.com

FURNITURE AND CHOICE Charleston sofa, £649.99 furniturechoice.co.uk

MINIFORMS Botera sofa, £3740 gomodern.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

LOAF Jonesy sofa, £1195 loaf.com

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Rebel R ses

Bespoke Faux Flowers 30 Elizabeth Street London | SW1W 9RB By appointment

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rebelrosesinfo@gmail.com 07738 064 956 www.rebelroses.co.uk

2020-12-15 11:34 AM

INTERIORS • SPOTLIGHT

“Cast iron radiators are ideally suited to London’s Victorian houses”

The HEAT IS ON How a stylish radiator is an essential component of a home makeover

By EVE HERBERT

F

ounders of travel and lifestyle Instagram The Adventures of Us and London creative agency Seventeen Social Club, Sarah-Louise Marks and Christopher Phelps are multidisciplinary creatives whose work spans photography, creative direction, travel, design and music.

They live in Kew with their cat Mala, in a stylish house that has its own instagram account, @no.17house, as a window into their

carefully curated world. It’s a Victorian house, built in 1901, which they spent two years searching for.

Inside, they took inspiration from Parisian apartments and Brooklyn townhouses and kept most walls and floors bright white, adding lots of contemporary details to create a contrast of old and new.

Central to the refurb has been an ongoing partnership with Castrads, whose beautifully crafted cast iron radiators are ideally suited to London’s Victorian housing

stock. For their bedroom, Marks and Phelps chose the Duchess model, pictured, a traditionally shaped piece with rounded tops, curved feet and antique brass Chatsworth finishes. The entire room – walls, ceiling, skirting boards and wardrobes – is painted in Paint and Paper Library’s Slate V shade, which is continued on the radiators, making them sit seamlessly against the walls. In the living room, the floral design of the Viscount radiator is one of the pair’s favourite things in their home, and it is again painted to match the walls in Farrow and Ball’s All White.

Castrads, established in England, manufactures custombuilt, custom-finished radiators as well as controls and fittings that are suitable for both steam and hydronic heating systems.

Inspired by the past but always looking to the future, their products combine classic form and enduring functionality with the most up-to-date technology.

CA ST R A D S castrads.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CURTAIN CALL INSPIRED INTERIORS Our redesigned and extended showroom is now open, incorporating a large Luxaflex design studio showing the latest motorised blinds, nestled alongside nearly new curtains and a huge choice of fabrics to be made to measure as curtains and blinds Please call for Showroom appointments

Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm • Closed Wed from 1pm 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • curtaincall@blueyonder.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TOP FIVE

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O N R E P E AT

O N C E U P O N A T U E S DAY

I T ' S A D A T E ALL THE BEST CALENDARS FOR 2021

Cornish brand Once upon a Tuesday's Perpetual celebration calendars keep your special dates on your wall, year after year, after year. Made to last, this style of calendar documents special dates which repeat each year, so are reusable. From £14.50 onceuponatuesday.co.uk

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C O LO U R WATC H BETSY BENN DESIGNS

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This amazing colour swatch wall planner is printed on four individual sheets of paper. Each sheet displays three months of the year, so you can either display one sheet at a time or all four for the whole year, depending on your preference or available wall space. £30 betsybenn.com

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FLIP OUT

BLOCK DESIGN

Ideal for hanging on a wall, this Flip Calendar gives you a new piece of art every day. Each number creates a three-dimensional effect due to the clever use of colour and stencil-cut outs. £14 blockdesign.co.uk

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PRINT RUN CRISPIN FINN

The iconic Crispin Finn 2021 Year Planner lets you see your year at a glance - the design is practical, useful and easy on the eye.

Two colour printed on 135gsm 100% recycled paper. £20 crispinfinn.com

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S Q UA R E DA N C E

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HOUSE DOCTOR

Get control of the busy weekdays with this lovely eternity calendar from Monograph by House Doctor. The fine calendar is named Eternity. £26 coolshop.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

HAPPY NEW YEAR

In this section:

PRENATAL FITNESS Five pregnancysafe exercises • FAKE FLEX Working at home • RELAXING GETAWAY Family-friendly spa escape • THE COSY EDIT Snuggly favourites

As we say goodbye to what has been a challenging year for everyone, in this special issue of Absolutely Mama we look forward to better times ahead. There’s prenatal fitness, we visit one of the UK’s most relaxing family-friendly spas, and we have the latest wellness launches for mamas and minis.

Enjoy and here’s to 2021!

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Also available in white!

Prices starting at

ÂŁ249

NEW Natty Collection

The Natty collection features a range of beautifully-crafted furniture designed to support your child from birth all the way through to their teenage years.

@booricollections

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LETTER

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ew Year is traditionally the time for a fresh slate, but as we leave 2020 behind it rings true more than ever. We have high hopes that the year ahead is going to be more positive and to help you get it off to the best start, this special edition of Absolutely Mama focuses on taking care of yourself.

Pilates and prenatal fitness expert Hollie Grant takes us through her top five exercises for pregnancy; we visit one of the UK’s most relaxing spas and test out the best treatments for mamas; and we have the latest wellness products for you and your mini.

Elsewhere in this issue we meet author, Heart FM presenter and campaigner Anna Whitehouse; we round up our cosy favourites for your little one this January; and we have all of your usual favourites including Kids Fashion Notes.

Enjoy and Happy New Year!

Let’s make it a good one.

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C a rly Gl e n di n n i n g E DITOR

@carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com

KIDS FASHION NOTES P.108

ON THE COVER: Claude & Co claudeandco.co.uk

10 THINGS WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE P.100

PHOTOGRAPHER: POLLY GEAL @LITTLEKINPHOTOGRAPHY MODEL: CHANEEN SALIEE @CHANEENSALIEE

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10 things we Absolutely

LOV E The products and brands getting our attention this month

CLOSE KNIT

Lounge Around

KIDS OF APRIL Is there anything cuter than an oversized knit for little ones?

Perfect for growing into, the chunky styles from independent brand Kids of April are ethically made using natural fibres and will see your mini through winter and beyond. kidsofapril.com

ARKET We’ve finally mastered the art of staying at home dressing.

Top of our wish lists is this luxurious cashmere maxi from ARKET, which is equal parts cosy and stylish. £225; arket.com

HAPPY SMILES CAM CAM COP EN H AG E N Shaped like a flower, this clever teether from Cam Cam Copenhagen has different textures to soothe sore gums.

BPA and PVC-free and made for little hands to grip. £12; camcamcopenhagen.com

Mini Me C L AU D E & CO One of the coolest mama and mini designs we’ve seen, we love this matching ‘Milking It’ sweatshirt from Claude & Co. Available in adult and kids sizes, it gets bonus points for being made from super-soft organic cotton. claudeandco.co.uk

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Carry All

T IBA + M A R L Stylish changing bag brand Tiba + Marl has launched their new ‘CONCEPT’ Modular Daypack. Unisex and made from 100% recycled heavy duty nylon, the clever design allows you to add on five different clip-on components. tibaandmarl.com

B AC K TO BASICS

NO PLASTIC

J U EM Whether you’re pregnant or nursing, the organic cotton underwear range from Australian brand Juem will keep you comfy. Do big pants days right with their ‘bobbie short’. juem.com.au

L EG RA Made from French red clay, these eco-friendly soaps are not only free from nasties but will also help you ditch the plastic packaging. They are also full of skin repairing vitamins and minerals, vegan and cruelty-free. cissywears.com

Dreamy Sleep LEA ND E R Perfect for creating a calm sleep space, this beautiful canopy from Leander can also help little ones feel more secure. It attaches to the brand’s Linea and Luna cots. leander.com

L E T ’ S E AT KONG E S SLØJ D Mealtimes don’t get much prettier than this set from Konges Sløjd. Perfect for the weaning stage, it’s PVC, BPA and phthalate-free too. kongessloejd.dk

Wrap Up

or’s Editick P

M O RI Super cute and practical too, this baby coat from MORI is reversible to help you get more wear out of it. It’s eco credentials don’t stop there – as it’s made from organic cotton and bamboo as well. £44.50; babymori.com

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PE ACE OF MIND

TOT GEAR

MAMA BEHIND THE SQUARES

ERGO BABY

Ergo Baby’s Omni 360 Anti Microbial Baby Carrier is made with a soft anti-microbial fabric to help provide an extra hygiene barrier. Suitable from birth, the clever design grows with your baby from week 1 to 48 months. £154.90; ergobaby.co.uk

TOT GEAR

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

ROCK ON M A M A S & PA PA S Perfect for night feeds, Mamas & Papas have launched the Bowdon rocking chair and footstool. The set has been designed to make nursing as comfortable as possible with a high back and armrests to give you support. From £499; mamasandpapas.com

TUMMY TIME ADEN + ANAIS

aden + anais has launched their first baby playmat. Designed to help you bond with your little one, the beautifully hand-embroidered muslin mat has 30+ developmental benefits. £85; adenandanais.co.uk

Amazon ALEXA ECHO Absolutely Mama’s social media editor, Jessica Shaltout, puts the latest parenting kit through its paces @absolutelymama

I

used to be dubious about the idea of anyone ‘listening in’ to our conversations, until my husband pointed out, why would anyone want to listen to us? Fair point.

So we now have several Alexa enabled devices, most recently the stylish, all-new Echo Dot. Here are our top uses for new parents:  Use as an audio baby monitor with the ‘drop in’ feature. If you have the Echo Show you can even get visuals. Just remember to turn the mute on so it doesn’t wake them!  White noise and nursery rhymes.

There is even a skill called ‘Shush My Baby’ that provides a series of shushing noises to calm your baby.  Timer. If your hands are full and you want to time a feed or nap, there are plenty of apps you can get that link to Alexa, allowing you to set the stopwatch, hands free.  Shopping list. ‘Alexa - add nappies to shopping list’, then make sure you have the app on your phone when out. Probably the most useful feature for us. No more searching for pens and scraps of paper.  Ask random questions. Never again do you need to wonder how many times a day should your baby poo!

Plus - now Echo devices are built with 100% recycled fabrics, come in recycled packaging and have a Low Power Mode to conserve energy. Win! All-new Echo Dot, £49.99; available at amazon.co.uk

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Anna Whitehouse campiagning for flexible working for parents

F A K E F L E X

Anna Whitehouse on why working at home during the pandemic shouldn’t be mistaken for ‘flexible working’...

I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

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Flex Appeal flash mob

“We found that 72% of all

employers want to keep working from home” Anna and her husband Matt working at home

A

nna Whitehouse is an author, Heart FM presenter and campaigner for flexible working. With so many parents at burnout right now – juggling extended periods of childcare whilst trying to prove to their employers that they can work productively at home by making themselves available 24/7 – we caught up with Anna to discuss what needs to change.

Q Could you start by telling us what ‘Fake Flex’ means?

A The main thing to remember here is that we aren’t ‘working from home’ at the moment. We’re in our homes working in the context of a pandemic, and they are two very different things. Our kitchen tables or cramped home offices aren’t the magic solution for toxic office culture. Our campaign Flex Appeal - to fight for flexible working for everyone - launched a recent report with construction firm Sir Robert McAlpine and social change agency Claremont entitled ‘Forever Flex: Flexible working beyond a pandemic’. What it found is that 2020 is not the time to hail a flexible working revolution because people are burning out by always being ‘on’. We’re in a period of ‘fake flex’ where employees are competing to prove their

worth by logging on 24/7 and in turn aren’t taking a break, resulting in them breaking.

What we have now might look like flex, but people are working at home in the context of a global crisis without all the benefits of flex – improved mental health, a better work/ life balance, the ability to care for others. We want to create a lasting shift where flexible working isn’t a bonus or something you’re expected to earn – it is simply the norm.

Q Do you think that employers will be more open to flexible working post-pandemic?

A Through the Forever Flex report, we found that 72% of all employers want to keep working from home, and 70% of all employers want to keep working flexitime – so there’s definitely hope. The challenge now is making sure it actually happens and that’s why we published this report.

It’s a critical read for any decision makers or leaders within a business who want to use this time of crisis as an opportunity to make long-lasting, meaningful change, particularly those who may have previously come up against barriers to do so.

Q With everyone essentially ‘living at work’ right now, how can you work with your employer to make sure you are maintaining a good work / life balance?

1 Counterbalance employer cynicism with a trial period of flex. Hold the hand of

your employer and prove flexible working works by measuring productivity over that period. You can’t argue with facts.

2 In the face of a blanket ‘no’ don’t immediately quit. Form a flexible working group (ensure it’s for everyone and not solely a women’s network) internally to discuss issues and open the company up to good practice across your industry in a non-confrontational way. The aim is to get them listening. We are in a period of transition and everyone has the ability to start a conversation around the link between effective flexible working, closing the Gender Pay Gap and recruiting and retaining a truly inclusive and diverse workforce.

3 Remember Flex has to be a two-way process. Ultimately it has to be about productivity and focusing on the business benefits. It won’t work going in with a list of demands, always have the business at the centre of negotiations. A happier, healthier workforce is a more productive workforce. Flexibility is good for business.

Q And how can employers use the current situation of ‘accidental flex’, as an opportunity for long term change?

Look at the success stories of where a  flexible approach has achieved better results and use them to create impact with decision-makers. Stories trump

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Anna Whitehouse

Q What has your own situation been like working at home and managing childcare during the pandemic?

A It’s been a journey. I don’t think anyone was prepared for the level of teaching, working, conference-calling, cooking, fringe-cutting, news-watching or general worrying that the past nine months had in store for us. I’ve wanted to flick my husband in the forehead on more than one occasion and I’ve cut toast into the shape of every animal known to man, but we’re making it work as a team. Matt (my husband) and I split the day in half – I work in the morning while he keeps the kids alive, then we swap.

“A flexible

approach still needs boundaries”

statistics every time. The more human, unexpected and unusual the better  Giving ALL colleagues a chance to work out what good flexible working looks like gives them a stake in the process. As a result, it is more likely to stick. Could one team of managers train another? How might colleagues’ experiences of flex be used to help others understand its benefits?

Ongoing two-way communication is  critical. Talk honestly and openly, and try to share vulnerabilities. Listening is even more important. Where’s the rub in your day? What one small thing would improve your working life?

A flexible approach still needs  boundaries. Do you need people to work core hours? Are there certain service levels that must be met? Should people communicate in specific ways? Tell them. Make expectations crystal clear.

Q And finally, do you have any mumhacks for other parents trying to juggle it all at the moment?

A Here’s a few that helped me through both lockdowns: 1 Try The Time Blocking Method. Split your day between proactive (working on new projects) and reactive (clearing emails) otherwise you feel you’ve done nothing with your day other than wade through the inbox of doom.

2 Give family members clear time slots for asking you to open a gherkin jar/look at a new dance move/ discuss the latest tier trauma.

3 Make sure you have social chats with friends, colleagues, other mums as often as you can. Even if it’s just to ping a quick meme onto the WhatsApp group – stay connected with the real world and support each other.

4 Acknowledge that you will get hacked off. There will be a child that spills Beena [Ribena]. There may be a postman that pummels the door like Tyson Fury. There might be a partner who still doesn’t know where the clean tea towels are despite having cohabited for 13 years. Make peace with the chaos. You can’t fight it.

You will otherwise end up screaming at everyone to shut up and realise midway that you are only wearing a pair of knickers and a hoodie with gherkin juice dribbling down your chin.

ANNA WHITEHOUSE Author, campaigner and Heart FM presenter.

Read the Forever Flex: Flexible Working beyond a pandemic report at srm.com

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FA S H I O N NOTES Carly Glendinning rounds up the month’s best styles, looks and launches

GO WILD

VILD HOUSE OF LITTLE

A riot of colour, the Precious Wildlife collection from ecofriendly brand Vild House of Little features endangered species in a hand painted print. 10% of net sales will be donated to the WWF. vildhouseoflittle.com

we love FRESH PRINTS THE ANIMALS O B S E R VATO R Y

With more than a hint to spring, The Animals Observatory has launched a new capsule collection made using re-worked cotton.

The recycled fabric is off-cuts from previous seasons and the brand’s manufacturers. theanimalsobservatory.com

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Jump To It CLAUDE & CO X ANDO STORES

Claude & Co and Ando Stores have come together to create these super-cool overalls. Available in four muted tones, they are beautifully embroidered on the back and are made from organic cotton. We need them in our size! claudeandco.co.uk

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mama KIDS

Eco Threads

FASHION

nd Bra us Foc

AESTHETIC LAUNDRY

This limited edition sweatshirt from Aesthetic Laundry is made from fabric off-cuts that would otherwise be headed for landfill. The playful design is part of the brand’s Zero Waste Fabric Project. aestheticlaundry.com

FRUGI An ethical and sustainable brand for little ones...

K

A R T AT TAC K BOBO CHOSES

Bobo Choses has launched a new capsule collection full of the brand’s characteristic playful prints. Sustainably produced, fabrics used include organic cotton and ecovero – an ecoresponsible viscose. bobochoses.com

5 of t he b e s t B O OT S POM D’API Leather Boots, £84; alexandalexa.com

PETIT NORD, Shearling Boots, From £114; petitnord.com

WE A FAMILY Maple Boots, From £95; weafamily.com

BOBUX Step Up Boots, £52; bobux.co.uk

nown for their colourful and fun designs, Frugi is a children’s clothing brand that takes sustainability very seriously.

This season, they are going one step further to make sure that their collections are fully sustainable and ethical. In the fight against landfill waste, all of their designs are crafted for quality, functionality and wearability – ensuring that you can get as much use out of them as possible before they are passed on.

The new collection features clever design details such as turn down cuffs and waists, trousers that can turn into shorts and extra wriggle room for babies and toddlers.

All fabrics are eco-friendly (including super-soft GOTS certified organic cotton and materials made from recycled plastic bottles) and are made without the use of pesticides or harsh chemicals – making them safe for little ones' sensitive skin. The brand has also used the same trusted, ethical factory in India since its launch seventeen years ago.

Worth checking out is this season’s sun-safe swimwear – made from recycled plastic PET; the brand’s eco-friendly Bloom maternity and nursing range; TotsBots reusable nappies; and their collaboration with The National Trust, which is designed with exploring the great outdoors in mind. welovefrugi.com

YOUNG SOLES Monkey Boots Child, £110; youngsoles.london

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mama E SSENTIALS

the

COSY EDIT

Carly Glendinning rounds up the cuddliest winter warmers

SCANDI S W E AT E R S

editor’s pick

MINI A TURE

Danish brand MINI A TURE use ECO TEX and OEKO TEX certified yarns to make their knitwear. Look out for classic Fair Isle sweaters, cosy baby rompers and sweet ruffled cardigans. miniature.com

WEATHER PROO F KONGES SLØJD

A winter must-have, the cosy snowsuits from Konges Sløjd will protect them in all weathers. We love the muted colours and the Danish brand’s sustainable credentials. scandiborn.co.uk

we love

NATUR AL KN ITS MABLI

Family-run Welsh brand MABLI make vintage inspired knits using natural yarns. Look out for retro knitted rompers, cosy bonnets, toasty jumpers and chunky tights. mabli.co.uk

GET TOASTY B ELLE EN FANT

From mohair sweaters to cashmere accessories, Belle Enfant has one of the most luxurious ranges of winter pieces for little ones. We love the understated colour palette and sweet detailing. belleenfant-boutique.com

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BBHUGME® PREGNANCY PILLOW

Developed by Norwegian Health Professionals.

Loved by moms-to-be all around the world.

Uniquely adjustable enabling the rest and sleep you need (and deserve) during your pregnancy. www.bbhugme.com

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BUMP

fit

Hollie Grant, award-winning Pilates instructor and founder of The Bump Plan shares five pregnancy-safe exercises...

P

regnancy is such a fantastic time to prepare for the physical demands of labour and motherhood. It’s common, however, for women to be unsure as to what they should be focusing on, and also what is safe. If we think about car seats, buggies and changing bags, they are all really heavy, so let’s focus on training for this upcoming endurance marathon.

There are some key areas of the body that are essential to train during pregnancy to help maintain good posture, reduce your risk of pregnancy related lower back pain, and ensure you’re strong and functional for when your baby arrives. These are the glutes, upper back extensors, transverse abdominis, and the pelvic floor. Here are my top 5 exercises for engaging these areas of the body during pregnancy.

Bend and Extend

This exercise keeps the glutes and hamstrings active, whilst challenging your back extensors.

Stand with your feet hip width apart and parallel, knees soft, pelvis neutral and shoulders back and down. Bring your hands to prayer position at your chest. Inhale and bow forward, hinging from your hips, as far as your hamstrings will allow and maintaining a neutral spine. You don’t want to go lower than hip height. Exhale to press the feet into the ground and slowly return to the start position. Repeat for 12-14 reps.

Zips

This exercise activates the transverse abdominis muscle and the pelvic floor, both important for stability of the spine.

Start on hands and knees with your spine neutral. Allow your tummy to relax.

Imagine a zip running from your back passage, past your front passage, along your

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“Car seats, buggies

and changing bags are all really heavy” bump and ending at your boobs. Inhale to prepare and as you exhale imagine zipping yourself up. You should be feeling your back passage close, then your front passage close, and then your bump rise up slightly.

Inhale to release. Repeat for 12-14 reps.

Spiders

Great for the upper back extensors which have a huge demand placed on them when your baby arrives.

Sit on the floor in a comfortable position with your spine neutral, eye line forward and fingers to temples, elbows wide. Imagine there is a spider on the wall directly in front of you. Inhale and watch the spider climb up the wall towards the ceiling. As you take your eyes up, allow the spine to follow. You’re aiming to lengthen out your upper back (don’t arch your lower back). Exhale to slowly return to neutral. Repeat for 8-10 reps.

Marbles

Sit on the floor in a comfortable position with your spine neutral and hands resting on your knees. Imagine that there are 2 marbles underneath your pelvis. Inhale and as you exhale imagine picking up one of the marbles with your back passage (anus) and one with your front passage (vagina).

Hold for up to 10 seconds and then release the marbles gently. Repeat for 10 reps.

HOLLIE GRANT

Clams

Clams are fantastic at maintaining glute function and side-lying is really comfortable during pregnancy.

Lie on your left-hand side, knees bent to around 90 degrees, feet in line with your tailbone. Ensure your hips are stacked and your spine neutral. Inhale and as you exhale start to lift your right knee towards the ceiling, keeping the heels connected. Inhale to lower the knee back down with control.

Repeat 12-14 reps before switching sides.

HOLLIE GRANT @thepilatespt | @thebumpplan pilatespt.co.uk/the-bump-plan

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*

With you every step of the way BEFORE Pregnacare® Conception with 21 nutrients including folic acid as recommended for all women trying to conceive.

DURING PREGNANCY

AFTER

Pregnacare® Original with19 nutrients including folic acid and vitamin D as recommended by the Department of Health.

Pregnacare® Breast-feeding with 21 nutrients including 10mcg vitamin D and 300mg DHA for mums during lactation.1

More than just folic acid Most trusted by mums2 Most recommended by midwives 2,3

2020-12-08_ADPRGRANGEP_E_1

Helping to make healthy mums and babies for over 25 years, Pregnacare® provides the recommended level of folic acid,4 along with vitamin D which is advised by the UK Department of Health throughout pregnancy.5 It also provides a range of micronutrients, and is supported by unique clinical research with mums-to-be.6,7

From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores &

www.pregnacare.com

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

The ONLY vitamin company to twice receive The Queen’s Award For Innovation and International Trade

1. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol.18, No.5, 487-489 (1999). 2. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. 3. Based on a survey of 1000 midwives. 4. Folic acid contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Pregnacare® has always contained 400mcg folic acid, the level recommended for all women from the start of trying to conceive until the 12th week of pregnancy. 5. Source: NHS Choices. 6. Agrawal, R. et al. Prospective randomised trial of multiple micronutrients in women undergoing ovulation induction, Reproductive BioMedicine Online December 2011. 7. L Brough et al. Effect of multiple-micronutrient supplementation on maternal nutrient status, infant birth weight and gestational age at birth in a low-income, multi-ethnic population. British Journal of Nutrition (2010), 104, 437-445. *UK’s No.1 pregnancy supplement brand. Source: Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Value and Unit Retail Sales 52 w/e 31 October 2020. To verify contact Vitabiotics Ltd, 1 Apsley Way, London, NW2 7HF.

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HOME MADE

POTS FOR TOTS

Pots for Tots is a home-made food delivery service in South London, aimed at babies and toddlers. Developed with a nutritionist, their hearty meals are high quality, organic and delivered to your door. potsfortots.co.uk

mama’s

WELLNESS NOTES Healthy toddler meals and menstruation innovation

GOING ECO THINX

Thinx, the creators of underwear that absorbs your period has launched a new limited edition super cotton brief in collaboration with Selfridges as part of their Project earth initiative.

Featuring a Eurasaian red squirrel, the briefs hold up to four regular tampons’ worth of blood. shethinx.com

Box Clever PICCOLO

Piccolo’s new Just-For-You subscription box provides a personalised meal plan, tailored to your little one. The clever service factors in their age and dietary requirements as well as your eating goals for them. From £25; mylittlepiccolo.com

ESSENTIAL KIT TESTCARD

Med-tech enterprise Testcard has developed an at-home, non-invasive UTI testing kit that turns a smart phone camera into a clinical grade scanner. Perfect for providing peace of mind especially during pregnancy when UTIs are more common. testcard.com

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h o me & interio rs INSPIRATION

CHOOSING A CA E S A R E A N Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Ellie Rayner on opting to have a caesarean birth....

T

he majority of women in the UK will give birth vaginally, have a healthy baby and recover well with no long-term complications.

However, if you are not sure whether a vaginal birth is right for you, you can request an appointment with an obstetrician during your pregnancy to discuss the pros and cons of choosing an elective caesarean section.

Around 1 in 4 babies are born by caesarean with the majority of these being performed as an urgent or emergency procedure due to concerns over the mother or baby’s wellbeing. Some women are recommended to have an elective caesarean section during their pregnancy by their obstetrician and any woman in the UK, can choose to have a caesarean when there isn’t a

medical reason for this, and this is called a maternal request caesarean section.

Generally, a vaginal delivery is considered safer for you and your baby than a caesarean Section because of the associated risks in the short and long term, therefore doctors do not usually recommend the operation unless they feel it is absolutely necessary. There are many reasons why some women feel a maternal request caesarean birth is right for them and it is important to recognise that everyone is different and what might be right for someone else might not be right for you. The most common reasons include anxiety or fear of vaginal birth and a previous history of a complicated or traumatic birth or experience. Some women wonder if it is safer to have a caesarean or are worried about damage to their pelvic floor or about the timing of the birth of their baby. If any

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“Your midwife and

obstetrician are there to support you” of these apply, you will be referred to the antenatal clinic to discuss your request and personal situation with an obstetrician to help you make an informed choice.

During this appointment you will be encouraged to discuss your rationale and any specific concerns you have and given a full explanation of the pros and cons of both elective caesarean section and vaginal birth. You will be offered an opportunity to discuss any questions you have and some written information to take away with you to read. If you have specific concerns, such as fear or anxiety, and would like support to overcome these, you may be referred to a specialist to help manage and control your anxiety and treatment to overcome any fears. If you have had a previous traumatic birth your obstetrician may discuss your previous labour and the likeliness of a similar situation occurring again and suggest plans that can be put in place this time to help you feel safe during labour. If after the consultation you are certain a caesarean section is the right option for you, this should be arranged for around 39 weeks of pregnancy for you. Some obstetricians or some maternity units do not offer maternal request caesarean sections however, if this is the case in your area, you will be referred to a different obstetrician or a different maternity unit that will support your request.

Most women who have a planned caesarean section will recover well and have healthy babies and no long term complications however, the recovery is longer to get back to normal and it does make future pregnancies and births more complicated so it is important to consider both of these factors when making a decision.

The important thing is to be honest about your feelings and concerns throughout your pregnancy and recognise that these feelings may change along the way and that your decision over your birth preference may change to. Your midwife and obstetrician are there to support you to make an informed decision on whichever mode of birth is right for you and your family based on your personal situation.

If you would like any further information, please see the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Patient leaflet on ‘Choosing a Caesarean Section’.

Dr Ellie Rayner

D R E L L I E R AY N E R Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and founder of The Maternity Collective.

The Maternity Collective offer expert-led antenatal classes and support all birth preferences, including offering a dedicated Elective Caesarean Section Course for parents planning a caesarean birth. @maternitymedic thematernitycollective.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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mam a E SCAPE S

Relaxing Getaway BERKSHIRE

Anna Woolf visits luxury country hotel Cliveden House and tries the in-house spa Wo r d s A N N A WO O L F

The Hotel Set in 376 acres of National Trust grounds, Cliveden House is a beautiful grade I stately home nestled in Taplow, Berkshire and is around 50 minutes from London by car. The house oozes up-market style and class and the staff pride themselves on attentiveness and making sure the service means nothing has been left to chance. The dramatic views over the Berkshire countryside and the open green spaces make Cliveden House really feel like a tonic for your soul.

The Room Classical in style, we stayed in a junior suite on the first floor, with dramatic sweeping views across the park. The generous king sized beds were so comfortable, and the room boasted not only two sitting areas but also a separate dressing room – making getting ready for dinner a breeze. More champagne, anyone?

Things to Do The Food Cliveden House offers two main restaurants, the Cliveden Dining Room and the Astor Grill. The latter being a slightly more family (and dog!) friendly affair. The food was delicious, and the staff were keen to cater to any food allergies or special requirements. The grill has a relaxed feel, and many parents with newborns were there enjoying a family afternoon out. The main dining room provides a more formal feel, with fabulous service and menus to choose from. Or why not try the traditional afternoon tea? Served in the cosy open living room, with roaring fires on tap, this was the perfect spot for people watching and relaxing before dinner.

The Spa With both Oskia products and Sarah Chapman facials now available, the Cliveden spa is not just your average spa break.

Boasting an outdoor and indoor pool as well as a well-equipped gym area, the spa is also super family friendly, welcoming children into the pool. We had an Oskia facial as well as a full body massage, and left feeling on cloud 9. The spa also now offers a fully vegan facial meaning that everyone is catered for.

The staff at Cliveden really do make sure every stay is special. It’s easy to get lost in the beautiful grounds, before remembering that there’s still lunch to be eaten and spa treatments to be had.

Cliveden also fully welcomes children, offering a children’s play area, walking routes and access to the swimming pools.

Families of all sizes can be accommodated in the rooms.

Whether treating yourself, or your whole family, there really is something for everyone at Cliveden House.

Rooms from £445 per night. clivedenhouse.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KEW GREEN preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” “Pupils of all ages benefit from a rich and exciting curriculum.”

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - July 2015

To book your place on an open morning, please go to www.kgps.co.uk/openmornings or phone 020 8948 5999

Kew Green Preparatory School

Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF

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RAVENSCOURT PARK

preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” ‘’The curriculum is excellent for all ages and abilities, and is expertly matched to meet the needs of the range of pupils in the school.’’

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - March 2016

Open Mornings Open Mornings

9.15am Tuesday 14th November To book your place on an open morning,

9.15am Thursday 9th May 2019 please go to www.rpps.co.uk/openmornings 9.15am Thursday 18th January 2018 9.15am Tuesday 11th June 2019 or phone 020 8846 9153

9.15am Thursday 1st February 2018

To your place on an open morning, pleasemornings, go to To book register your attendance at one of our open rpps.co.uk/admissions or phone 020 8846 9153 please phone 0208 846 9153 or mail secretary@rpps.co.uk

Ravenscourt Park Prep School 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL

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TRIED & TESTED

IN DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

mama REVIEWS

Béaba Neo Babycook

A

Re vie w e d b y M I M I N E W B E R RY

Babymoov Hygro+ Humidif ier

W

Re vie we d by SOPH I E H E L SBY

e had already had two colds in our house at the start of winter – thanks to the return to nursery. Snotty and bunged up, my daughter was not sleeping well at night. I’d read that little ones’ rooms need 40-50% humidity to promote good sleep – and during the winter, the cold dry air can cause throat and lung irritation. So I was excited to test the Hygro+ Humidifier from Babymoov, which aims to promote easier airflow and breathing. We found it pretty easy to set up, once we’d figured out the intructions.

Humidifiers work best when they are cleaned regularly, so we decided to use filtered water from the off. The best thing about the Hygro+ is that it has lots of added functionality.

You can check the temperature of the room, add essential oils, and it also has a colour changing night light function. We found it really useful that you can change the mode to manual or automated and especially loved how it switches itself off overnight when it reaches the optimal levels. Another clever feature is the 360 degree swivel – so you can direct the steam wherever you want.

After several weeks of sleepless nights, the Hygro+ definitely helped us all to rest more easily and we’ll be using it from now on to help ward off any more pesky colds.  £79.99 babymoov.co.uk

part from being a stylish piece of kit, what attracted us to the Béaba Neo Baby Food Steamer and Blender is that it has a glass bowl and stainless steel basket, so there’s no need to worry about the dangers of BPA, lead and phthalates. This clever kitchen gadget steam cooks, blends, defrosts and reheats, making it perfect for use during the weaning process. We are currently trying out a mixture of baby-led weaning and spoon feeding and we loved that you can choose the blending texture – smooth, mixed, lumps or chunks. The basket allows you to prepare 600g of food, which we found to be plenty, and the soft steam modulation preserves the nutritional value. We’ve started with veg-led weaning and everything we prepared was cooked to just the right texture and consistency for our daughter to try. We found it super easy to use and it takes the stress out of preparing meals because you’re not juggling several pieces of equipment at once and it basically does most of the work for you. Cleaning is pretty straightforward too, especially if you follow Béaba’s advice for descaling. We are really pleased with our Neo, and would definitely recommend it to other parents.  £160 beaba.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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DISCOVERMORE

Open Days

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. th November 1st/7 (9.30am/care, 9.30am) With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral st Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place November 15thof /21learning (7.00pm/ 9.30am) and discovery, laughter and friendship.

November 29th (9.30am) please go to the website for open event dates and to book your place: kewhouseschool.com/openevents T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

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20/03/2020 16:44

EDUCATION

MUSICAL YOUTH T I M E TO P L AY

Music in schools has been negatively impacted by Covid, but eight schools reveal their aims for and attitudes to music tuition and its importance, for both wellbeing and academia.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Music for life – schools with orchestras, choirs and ensembles 129 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION • FOCUS

MUSIC for

life A B OV E A pupil at Oakham School

Music brings academic benefits across the curriculum, but it’s not just about the grades.

There's overwhelming evidence that music improves everything from state of mind to physical well-being.

Here eight schools share their approaches

Oakham School

A

t Oakham music is woven into the fabric of everyday life.

The school is a core part of Rutland Music Hub – a unique delivery vehicle in the centre of this small rural county which previously had no county-wide music service. Sharing music has been a mission for the school and its Director of Music Peter Davis. “We are a centre of excellence,” says Peter. “We should be sharing and are uniquely able to share.”

An example of this spirit of sharing was the 'Pied Piper' performance held at De Montfort Hall, Leicester last year. The music had been composed by Peter Davis during a sabbatical and was designed to give the children of Rutland the opportunity to sing.

And sing they did – 420 pupils from across the county aged from 8 to 18 took to the stage for the county’s first collaborative

concert. It raised the roof and earned a standing ovation for its composer and conductor. He says this was a golden opportunity to engage young people and the endeavour found some very promising singers. While this is a large-scale project, music happens in every way and every day around the school and the town – lunchtime concerts, community choirs.

There’s also Oakham Choral Society, fully supported by the school and able to use its facilities. With over 80 concerts performed by pupils each year locally, there are also national accolades to celebrate – the school’s chamber choir has won numerous awards.

There are impressive numbers of pupils at the school who make music – currently around half the school’s pupils are involved with ensembles – and with eight core teaching staff working alongside over 30 visiting teachers, students have access to elite music tuition.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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An Excellent

rated (ISI) school

welcoming children aged 3 months to 19 years.

Call to arrange a

socially distanced

private tour or join us on our virtual open day on 30 January 2021.

Visit www.qe.org for details.

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate “To be the best that I can, with the gifts that I have.” www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330 | York YO26 9SS

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KIDS & EDUCATION • FOCUS

RIGHT Showtime at Forest School BELOW A pupil at Bromley High School

Forest School

Bromley High School

T

he joy of making music is at the heart of Bromley High School GDST, and with musical excellence also front of mind.

There are three orchestras, more than ten small-scale and larger chamber ensembles and eight choirs, not to mention the two specialist iMac suites where girls are taught music technology on industrystandard equipment. Music scholarships are offered at 11,13 and 16+ and music scholars have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of musical experiences.

Bromley High was also the first all-girls school in the world to be accredited as an All Steinway School in 2017. This accreditation is given when a school provides Steinway pianos for play and rehearsals in all practice and performance spaces. The school now has 10, including the Concert Model D and Model B. Being an All Steinway School gives students the opportunity to attend masterclasses given

by Steinway artists and perform themselves at Steinway Hall. When the accreditation was confirmed, the school’s music scholars had a masterclass from renowned concert pianist Joanna MacGregor CBE as part of the celebrations. Caroline Daniel, Director of Music at Bromley, says: “It has been incredibly exciting to become the first all girls’ school to gain the Steinway accreditation. We are pleased to see our girls embarking on a first-class musical journey as well as ensuring that other local young musicians can benefit from this.”

Other musical initiatives at Bromley High include a new Musician in Residence to support the school’s exceptional musicians and develop partnerships with local schools. There are opportunities for keen musicians to give solo/chamber performances over the year and lead ensembles or workshops with local schools and the junior school. Music making is always about sharing, so the school also puts on an annual London concert – most recently at Cadogan Hall – inviting the public along.

F

orest School, Snaresbrook encourages musical learning as a vital part of pupils’ development.

Children can join group or solo singing sessions, there are multiple choirs and ensembles and the annual House Music Competition raises the roof of the Sports Hall and Deaton Theatre. Less rowdy music-making happens with Chapel Choir, which sings at services and events. A lively band scene led by pupils includes ‘Live Lounge’ events.

The music department’s large stock of instruments can be hired out to pupils and there is also a visiting composer, plus activities by cutting-edge professionals, who offer pupils the chance to develop skills in areas such as composition. At 11+ and 16+ entry pupils can apply for music scholarships to support their music education at the school.

Community partnership includes outreach activities with both local schools and organisations such as Hackney Empire.

Notable recent events include a performance of Faure’s Requiem by a choir of 80 pupils from Forest and five local primary schools, plus an adult chorus and orchestra – the culmination of eight months’ work to showcase the transformative power of group music making.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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‘High expectations of the pupils enable them to attain excellent standards.’

‘Pupils show excellent selfconfidence and resilience.’

ISI Educational Quality Inspection Report

The Study is a leading prep school situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village. We identify and nurture each girl’s unique academic, creative and sporting skills in a caring and supportive community.

To book a Virtual Tour, visit the website www.thestudyprep.co.uk or call Katie Salt, Head of Admissions on 020 8947 6969 Registered Charity No. 271012

We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+ Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

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2020-12-15 12:18 PM 01/12/2020 09:25

KIDS & EDUCATION • FOCUS RIGHT Orchestra at St Edmund's School

Parkside School

A

t Parkside School, Cobham, the Music Department, headed

by Jeremy Attwood, believe that the cornerstone of any child’s learning adventure is, in a nutshell: “creativity!” This provides the foundation to shape children’s mindset.

The sounds of YMCA being played on the ukulele with immense passion is frequent proof of a dynamic environment where music is to be celebrated. Parkside believes it is essential to create opportunities, offering new genres and different ensembles to suit every ability. Informal charity performances at local venues are performed alongside formal recitals on the grand piano in the school’s performance hall.

By the time children leave Parkside, they will have learned to play djembe, violin, keyboard and ukulele as part of their music curriculum. More than that, children at Parkside are encouraged to enjoy the experience of music making – sharing it with other people and watching the ideas that emerge.

BELOW A pupil at Parkside

St Edmund’s School

S

t Edmund’s School, Canterbury believes that schools which fully embrace music and the arts provide the best possible grounding. “Music is part of everyone’s life from birth as we are immersed in the sounds, melodies, harmonies and rhythms from the world around us,” says Director of Music Spencer Payne.

St Edmund’s pupils have dedicated practical and academic class music lessons on a weekly basis. Pupils make music together through a range of topics based around listening, composing and performing.

Junior and Senior School House music and singing competitions give the opportunity for all pupils within the school to get involved.

In the lower years, pupils explore sound, movement, pulse, rhythmic patterns, scales and melodies – all based on topics that introduce or consolidate these key skills needed for interpretation and performance at a higher level.

They also have the opportunity to try

out orchestral instruments on a rota basis to encourage fine motor skills and experience real, acoustic sound.

The school believes the health benefits of music making cannot be overstressed and, whether pupils enjoy singing in a choir, playing as part of a band, orchestra or in an ensemble, they can also draw upon these experiences to enhance emotional intelligence.

“From the early musical experiences for pupils, the mastery of a great choral tradition by our Canterbury Cathedral Choristers to the highly skilled A level musicians in the sixth form, music is something we celebrate and fully support at St Edmund’s. We believe that music should be part of everyone’s daily lives,” says Spencer Payne.

School music groups cater for everyone’s tastes – whether it be orchestral, choral, big band, small ensembles or soloists.

Many of these groups are also available to the local community, and school musical life is enriched by a wide variety of music trips, masterclasses, workshops, lunchtime concerts, and larger scale termly concerts in awe-inspiring locations such as Canterbury Cathedral.

“FOREST SCHOOL HAS A LIVELY BAND SCENE LED BY PUPILS, AS WELL AS REGULAR ‘LIVE LOUNGE’ EVENTS COORDINATED BY SIXTH FORMERS” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION • FOCUS LEFT Pupil at St James Senior Girls' School BELOW Tonbridge School

St James Senior Girls’ School

M

usic is a cornerstone of life at St James Senior Girls’ School in London’s Kensington Olympia, which has a strong tradition of choral and solo singing. It is a core subject up to Year 9 and remains perennially popular as a GCSE and A level subject.

The school has a variety of choirs, orchestras and ensembles and encourages its pupils to take up individual lessons.

Girls sing at services in St Mary Abbots Church, Kensington and the year end is marked by an annual joint concert with the Senior Boys’ School. Managing groups with mixed abilities is, says Head of Music, Myra Brunton, a matter of balance.

The school’s Youth Dance Company and annual choreography competition, introduce another, often very contemporary element, while Arts Week is an opportunity to participate in myriad kinds of music and drama. An undoubted highlight of the calendar is the joint musical with St James Senior Boys’ that takes place biennially – widening both the dynamics of performance and the audience.

A B OV E Showtime at Tring Park

Tonbridge School

T

onbridge School, Kent has a long tradition of music to draw on and it is woven into school life.

Chapel is a big part of pastoral life – the stunning building, which can accommodate the whole school, also houses a renowned Marcussen & Søn organ. Other superb music facilities include two recital halls (this is an All Steinway School), teaching and practice rooms, double recording studio and a sound-isolated rock and percussion suite to support bands and soloists who want to make some noise.

Director of Music Mark Forgen says that all Year 9 pupils have the opportunity to study academic music in class. “Some pupils come to us with very little musical background, while others have a lot”. The Music Department’s ‘buddy’ system means more experienced pupils can help those with less knowledge. Boys who choose to pursue music at a higher level (and this year over a quarter have) go on to study the iGCSE. In Sixth Form, a number of boys choose to take the Music Pre-U. The school's Composer in Residence Hywel Davies adds to the rich musicality of the setting – his more recent ambitious projects include a sound installation with the Lower Sixth.

Tring Park School

A

t Tring Park School for the Performing Arts, music making is a whole-hearted activity, whether or not students are specialising in musical theatre, dance or commercial music pathways offered here for 16+ (alongside acting). A lot of music that takes place is not part of formal or timetabled study. The school’s The Sixteen chamber choir (regulars in BBC Songs of Praise Senior School Choir of the Year) is made up largely of pupils who are not focusing the main part of their studies around music.

All performances are opened to the public and students participate in many local events – younger students are stalwarts of Tring Christmas Festival.

In-school shows at performance spaces such as the Markova Theatre present high-quality shows from tomorrow’s stars.

Outreach activities happen throughout the years. While some attract young people who might be looking to take things further (for instance the Kick Start boys’ dance programme), others such as evening dance classes for people with Parkinson’s and adult dance classes in the school’s superb Park Studios work to bring music to life for a much wider audience – and show that music really is for life.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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2020-12-15 10:37 AM

TRAVEL

OTHER ANIMALS MARBELLA NIDO

Inspired by the Durrells, Libby Norman headed to Corfu in search of sun, sea and relaxation.

Greek retreat 140 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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RETRE A

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TRAVEL • CORFU

Scaling a hillside overlooking the blue of the Ionian Sea, MarBella Nido is a slice of contemporary luxury, Corfu style, with a heady blend of great food and fabulous vistas from your own private nest

E AT

By LIBBY NORMAN

C

orfu may be a familiar Greek island delight for many, but it's our first time. As someone who grew up on My Family and Other Animals, I have a rosy fictional vision of crazy Brits and eccentric locals. While the island still celebrates its links with the Durrells, they are a tiny literary footnote in a long history dating back to Homer's Odyssey. It is believed that Corfu may even have been inspiration for the island setting of Shakespeare's The Tempest.

The landscape is rugged and green and spells of Venetian rule have left it with some stunning architecture – Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today Corfu has an increasingly modernsmart twist and MarBella Nido – our base at Agios Ioannis Peristeron on the south-east corner of the island – has earned plaudits galore since its opening in summer 2018.

Strictly adults only, and with a combination of luxe suites and private villas ranged up a vertiginous hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea, it is celebrated for its food, for its views and for a cool Corfiot vibe blending island architectural heritage and cool styling. It sits adjacent to its sister property MarBella Corfu and the 'Nido' in its name comes from the Italian word to nest – perfect then for a lovers' retreat.

Our first sight of the place is in blinding Greek sunshine and retreating to the Orangerie is a pleasant way to check in, cocktail in hand, and admire the artfully arranged objects, plants and botanic drawings. The reception space is built for the Mediterranean climate – lofty ceilings and giant picture windows to share that luscious view of the turquoise sea. There's also a huge fireplace which, as we later discover, is lit at night so people can have a cosy nightcap – one of many lovely homely touches at MarBella Nido.

Our suite is right up the hill. We discover that there's logic to this climb as every guest in each of the suites and villas gets a prime view down to the water. We're up on high, so have bagged a stunningly beautiful vista. Our room is neutral and chic. The private terrace with plunge pool is a heavenly place to enjoy a morning coffee or sundowner (something that becomes a daily ritual). We love the quiet and sense of privacy of being in our hilltop fortress and quickly discover that we don't need to tax our leg muscles as the fleet of golf buggies and super-cheerful staff will ferry us up and down whenever we choose.

The pace of life here is very chilled, with poolside the main draw for many guests.

There is also a small but idyllically peaceful slice of private beach with loungers and towels for guests and even a bell for waiter service from the hotel, should we choose.

There we while away happy afternoons A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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TRAVEL • CORFU

“Our private terrace with plunge pool is a heavenly place to enjoy a morning coffee or sundowner”

snoozing and occasionally making our way into the sea to cool off. And, oh bliss, Akrogiali Taverna Kerkyra (signboard legend: established 1948) is on our beach, conveniently close to our loungers. The perfect Greek taverna, this becomes our go-to lunch spot. I dine on fish or choice mezes, while my partner tucks into lots of delicious lamb, local style While the delights of the beach and our own private pool and terrace keep us well occupied, we do check out the fabulous infinity pool for more active endeavours.

It's brilliantly designed and a real sun-trap during the day, with cool bar for drinks and poolside snacks. Early evenings become our favourite time for lazy laps with regular pauses to tread water and gaze down at the water below. The rooftop Apaggio à la carte restaurant has the same peerless sea views and offers gourmet Greek and Italian flavours. There's a big wellness focus here and there's a spa on site, with treatment rooms offering Cinq Mondes serums and pampering oils – they even offer in-suite treatments. Guests can also access spa and fitness facilities at the sister hotel.

Food is a real star at MarBella Nido – we had heard good things but reality exceeds them. Leisurely breakfasts are taken alfresco on the sunny terrace of San Giovanni Restaurant – delicious breads and pastries, eggs to order, local yogurt and honey, fresh fruits and lots of strong coffee. We favour the same spot for dinners buffet style; buffets are never easy for chefs but the culinary team here are superb.

Delicious salads (what I always feel like

after a day at the beach) vie for attention with Med cuisine, grilled meats and local fish and seafood, all prepped perfectly.

Desserts are something else and my salad health kick is diluted after I discover the corner manned by a lovely chef generous with his scoops of homemade ice-cream.

Every visit to Corfu should include at least one stop-off in Corfu Town (around 30-minutes by taxi). We wander around the jumble of narrow streets lined with curiosity and gift shops and admire the Venetian architecture that earned it UNESCO protection. It's worth taking a trip uphill on foot or by bus to Mon Repos Palace – former home of British governors and birthplace of Prince Philip. It has stunning views over the Old Town and coast and lovely grounds.

Near its entrance are the archaeological remains of what some believe was the very first settlement at Corfu Town.

While there is more than enough to see around Corfu island for adventurous souls, MarBella Nido is also top spot for anyone who just wants to shrug on the flip-flops and clamp on the shades. With delicious food and prime views over the Ionian Sea, it has got the measure of what people actually want from down time à deux – a very luxurious and tranquil place to nest.

MARBELLA NIDO is located in Agios Ioannis Peristeron, Corfu.

For information about holidays here, visit marbell anid o.gr

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

EALING W5

ÂŁ950,000 Freehold

A superb, end of terrace, four bedroom family home in the heart of award winning Pitshanger Village with spacious living accommodation throughout. The ground floor offers a large west facing lounge, dining room and well-arranged fitted kitchen. To the first floor are two good sized double bedrooms, en suite shower room and family bathroom and to the second floor are two further bedrooms. The property has double glazed windows, gas fired central heating, a 45’ rear garden and much sought after off-street parking. Energy Performance Certificate E.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 1

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

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EALING W13

£2,500 Per Calendar Month

A simply superb four bedroom family home moments from the heart of the award winning Pitshanger Village.

The property offers large lounge, cloakroom, luxury open plan fitted kitchen/family room with bi fold doors onto the garden. To the first floor are three good sized bedrooms and modern family bathroom. The top floor has a spacious bedroom with views over Pitshanger Park and a modern shower room . There is also the benefit of gas fired central heating, an array of period features plus beautiful front and rear gardens. Offered unfurnished. Energy Performance Certificate C.

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year With very best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year to all of our clients, tenants and applicants as well as our Pitshanger and Ealing friends from

John, Rhian and the team at John Martin Estates

– PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT – YOUR SALES, LETTINGS AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 3

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REQUIRE A VALUATION?

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

CONTACT US TODAY

In 2020, our clients have given us the privilege of dealing with some amazing characterful properties in Pitshanger Village and across Ealing and we look forward to the same success in building relationships in 2021.

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country house town house period house modern house dream house moving house?

Estate agency has moved on. house. is different We know people are starting to consider online only estate agents, but still want the reassurance of face-to-face help from local experts.

You get both with us, because we provide that personal service without expensive high street locations that customers have to pay for.

We also go further to ensure your property and the lifestyle it enables is shown in the best possible light.

Sumptuous photography and video, and a contemporary web experience not only shows buyers how your home looks, but how it feels to live there. It’s the new, innovative way to add value when selling your house.

The premium online estate agency.

London, Surrey and Sussex 0800 917 0447 info@housepartnership.co.uk

housepartnership.co.uk

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Working from home?

Let’s find you a home for work and play.

jll.co.uk/residential Sales | Lettings | New homes

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26/03/2020 24/03/2020 14:33 16:21

PROPERTY • FEATURE

ACORN BOOK

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The Acorn Book Club helped children experience the joy of reading this year

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here’s no doubt that 2020 has been a challenging time for everyone; especially for children, who have missed out on so much learning and class time. Over the space of this year, the Acorn Book Club (ABC) has worked harder than ever to help support as many schools, organisations and individuals as possible. As the year draws to a close, their unrelenting efforts to help nurture a lifelong love of reading in children have continued.

One recent project saw the ABC spread some seasonal joy by delivering over 2,500 books to five different food banks in South East London, ensuring that as many children as possible have free access

to good quality books at home.

More recently still, as the first doors of advent calendars were being opened and the second national lockdown was lifted, the ABC embarked on possibly their most ambitious project to date, one which has seen them deliver thousands of books to seven different schools over the space of just one week. All books were delivered to special and alternative provision schools within the London South East Academies Trust, including - Bromley Beacon Academy (Orpington), Bromley Trust Academy (Orpington), Horizons Academy (Bexley), Aspire Academy (Bexley), Belmont Academy (Bexley), Woodside Academy (Bexley) and Bramley Oak Academy (Guildford, Surrey). A spokesperson for the London South

East Academies Trust commented, “Receiving these books is fantastic for all our schools and they will certainly be put to good use by our staff and pupils. Encouraging a love of reading from a young age is so important and getting access to a variety of books is an important part of this. We are most grateful to the Acorn Book Club for these books and also to the people who have so kindly donated them.” Robert Sargent CEO of The Acorn Group and Acorn Book Club Trustee added, “It’s great to be able to get so many books into little hands, especially at this time of year. Thanks to everyone at London South East Academies Trust for their help in making this happen and to everyone who has donated.”

With plans in place for many more projects in the coming months, 2021 looks set to be the ABC’s busiest year yet.

The Acorn Book Club was established by The Acorn Group in the middle of 2018 and has re-distributed nearly 20,000 books during this time. They accept donations of all books for children between 3-11 years old – preloved or new – at any Acorn, John Payne or Langford Russell office across South London & Kent. Find out more about their work in the local community and how you can help at acornbookclub.co.uk

PUPILS AT BROMLEY BEACON ACADEMY ORPINGTON WITH TEACHER SARAH GORDON, BRIDGETTE O'BRIEN (ACORN BOOK CLUB), LUCY SARGENT (ACORN BOOK CLUB) AND HELENA HAMILTON, HEAD OF SCHOOL

ROB SARGENT CEO at The Acorn Group & ABC Trustee A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk/jp

Charlton Church Lane, SE7 £800,000 S/O F/H

A truly stunning, four bedroom home which has been recently renovated by the current owners to the highest of standards throughout.

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Contact Blackheath Standard 020 8858 6101

Weigall Road, SE12 Guide price £999,950 F/H

A unique opportunity to own this superb 1920s four bedroom detached family home, overlooking playing fields and set on a fantastic plot.

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Contact Lee 020 8852 8633

Follow us on social   @acorngroup,  /acornestateagency or visit us at acorngroup.co.uk/jp

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A BOLD NEW MOVE FOR BRIXTON OVER 80% NOW SOLD / OVER 80% NOW SOLD / OVER 80% NOW SOLD

SHOW HOME NOW AVAILABLE TO VIEW BY APPOINTMENT URBAN, STYLISH AND HIGH-TECH, ‘TWO THREE SEVEN BRIXTON HILL’ IS A MODERN NEW DEVELOPMENT OF 1 AND 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS FOR SALE. For more information call 020 7089 6566 or visit: acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes

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P R I CES FR O M £ 450 ,0 0 0 – AVA I L A BL E W I T H A 5% DEP O S I T O N H EL P TO BU Y Help to Buy example: Apartment price: £450,000 Deposit: £22,500 40% equity loan: £180,000 Mortgage: £247,500

2020-12-17 6:02 PM

BROMLEY ’ S MOST EXCITING BUILD TO RENT DEVELOPMENT

AVAIL ABLE TO VIE W NOW FOR JANUARY MOVE- IN BRAND NEW 1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS , PLUS A STUNNING 3 BEDROOM PENTHOUSE TO RENT, ALL WITH PRIVATE BALCONIES OR TERRACES .

Bringing a whole new view to Bromley, Perigon Heights is a brand new collection of luxury apartments to rent. One of Bromley’s tallest buildings and just moments from Bromley South Station, this exciting new 17-storey rental development will be ready to move into from January 2021.

Viewing by appointment only: 020 8315 6916 | info@perigonheights.co.uk | perigonheights.co.uk

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