AGENT2 CAUGHT UP WITH NORTHERN INDIEPOPPERS THIS MANY BOYFRIENDS TO CHAT ABOUT THEIR NEW SINGLE, TOURS AND STAYING AWAKE AT FESTIVALS…

Hello! Diving straight in, I absolutley love the new single but I think I love the fanzine even more – what made you decide to go down this route with the release? Have you been following the rise in popularity of the ‘zine in the UK over the last few years?

Laura: I’ve been wanting to make a fanzine or comic or something for ages so thought making one about the band would be cool. And we thought it’d be good to go alongside a single release so it makes an interesting new format that people can get their hands on rather than just a download which is a bit inpersonal.

I don’t really know much about other ‘zines, I just like drawing! I’m going to get more into it though, there’s a really cool zine shop in Manchester and I like to look at all the nice things in there

What else can we expect from you in 2012? How has your single been received?

Laura: well, we’re going to be recording our album really soon. That’s very exciting! It’ll be out some time later in the year. And our next single (I Should Be A) Communist is out in April. I’m just finishing off the artwork and talking about ideas for something cool with that.
And we had so much fun touring with Allo Darlin’ and the Cribs so hopefully more touring is on the cards.

Richard: It’s been an amazing reponse, especially because we’ve kind of kept it low profile. People have been very kind. It means a lot to us that people like it because ‘Starling’ means a lot to us as a band.

Has the tour been going well? Who did you prefer playing with, The Cribs or Allo Darlin’?

Tom: The cribs and Allo darlin have both reached maximum levels of awesome in their own way. Preferring one over the other is like preferring star wars to LotR. Either way you’re winning.

Richard:  Yeah it’s been ace! Had tons of fun and got to hang out with some great people along the way. No way I’m going to choose! Next!

Daniel: They were both really good

I noticed from the bio on your site that you don’t want to be called ‘twee’, which is something I’ve noticed a lot with indiepop bands of the last few years. Why does the word ‘twee’ have such a negative vibe to it these days? (Is it that annoying match.com advert with the ukuleles? 

Laura: I’m pretty twee cos I like cupcakes and knitting and drawing pictures of animals wearing clothes. But I like other stuff too, like Riot Grrl and punk. The trouble with being labelled ‘twee’ is people think that’s all your music is about. We do like Tullycraft, but we also like McLusky and Springsteen.

Tom:  the match advert is bad enough but “twee” suggests singing songs about polar bears on some kind of quest for sugared treats. We’d rather do songs about records and girls and you know, real stuff in an upbeat way then some cutesy meaningless stuff.

Richard:  I think it’s just a catch all phrase. I mean what most people call twee is just indiepop to me.

Daniel: maybe we should embrace twee with the recent addition of a bit of glockenspiel to one of our bsides….

You threaten to ‘knock the block off’ anyone who dares to call you twee; have you ever had to carry out this threat?

Richard:  Nah we’re far too nice for that! Granted, next time someone mentions that we have a ‘girl drummer’ as if it’s a circus act and an oddity I will kindly knock their block off for them!

Will you be at any festivals this year, as punters or as performers? What’s your favourite UK festival?

Tom: Glastonbury is the best festival in the world. I’m going to drink a gallon of cider and sleep in my garden for a week this summer to get over the withdrawal symptoms

Laura: I do love Indietracks. We went last year as punters and it was lovely to be around so many of our indiepop pals. Also, I was selling crafts (twee!) and the indiepop kids love a bit of knitting!

We’ve few festivals booked – Live At Leeds, Sounds From The Other City and Long Division which are all going to be ace! They all have brilliant line-ups so far.

Richard: I’m not really a festival kind of guy. Don’t like tents and don’t like mud!

Daniel: The best thing about being in a band is getting to do shows with your favourite bands and getting to see them for free. Ive been going to live at leeds for a few years now, its good, if not only for the convenience of living 1 minute away from two of the venues

On that note, I saw you at Indietracks festival in Derbyshire a couple of years ago (you were brilliant, by the way) and I’m pretty sure you were camped next to us. You were playing the guitar a lot, was this you or have I confused you with another band? If so, I’m sorry (and embarrassed). If it was you, you kept me awake.

Tom: yeah we kept you awake. You should have come drinking with us! (I will definitely do this next time -TW)

Richard: It was probably us, we got a bit giddy because we’d never played a festival before! You should have come said hi and had some cider.

Daniel: I would never take a guitar or any musical instrument to a festival if i was just a punter. Those people are annoying!

Finally, when can we expect an album from you and what can we expect from it?

Daniel: just tenish really good indiopop tunes, NO FILLER!!!

Interview Tamsin Worrad

AND ACTION! THERE IS SMOKE, THE SOUND OF A GUN FIRE, SHADOWS… AND I AM WONDERING, IS THIS A FASHION SHOW?

Held at the intriguing Old Vic Tunnels, Sorapol’s catwalk show ‘Iron Grip’ was a stunning extravaganza inspired by the story of Vasilia, a girl adopted by Vladimir Ilyich, who was exiled from Russia due to his communist ideas.

A long dress in grey and red combined with a black velvet hat was the opening piece in a collection that exuded luxury, Russian influences and decadence.

Each piece was truly unique, with an extraordinary attention to detail and structured silhouettes reminiscent of Russia’s iconic cathedrals, which combined with rich fabrics and bright colours created an air of opulence and drama.

A long cow-skin dress adorned with a gas mask and rifle bullets, a short fur coat accessorized with a combat hat made of sparkling stones, and a short grey dress combined with dark yellow high knee boots were the most striking designs in this tremendously theatrical and emotional show, directed by renown fashion stylist, David Mota, and produced by acclaimed runway producer, Robert Pinnock.

Horror, death, destruction become a sign of luxury but with a tragic undertone in Sorapol’s vision of the fashion world.

The final part was more glittery and angelical, displaying a beautiful corset with light brown cuts and white trousers and the closing piece, a striking siren-style dress in white and silver so tight that the model could barely make the length of the catwalk…

A total triumph of creativity, Sorapol’s designs transcend fashion, becoming an astonishing spectacle of beauty, freedom of expression and art.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

Portuguese designer V!tor showcased a dark and sinister collection, where models had their faces covered in “burka style” at the elegant venue Camara Municipal de Lisboa. Ripped t-shirts combined with jeans, dresses and pullovers were the key pieces in a collection inspired by death, zombies and resurrection, where black was the star colour. Street fashion-meets-punk-meets-the-80s-spirit.

Models with painted glasses over the faces and high pony tails opened the runway in a quirky and fun collection designed by Katty Xiomara. Capes, oversized sleeves, bows and mid-length dresses in a colour palette of blues, purples and lime green were the main highlights in this girly and playful collection for a woman who doesn’t take herself too seriously.

At the spectacular location Patio da Gale, designer Dino Alves presented an extravagant collection that explores the nature and meaning of shadows. The models made an entrance standing in a podium where their outfits where illuminated creating a three-dimensional effect. Short grey dresses with black leather gloves, oversized pockets and high-waisted skirts with abstract prints added a futuristic touch to this innovative collection.

Ricardo Petro showcased slick outfits such as maxi skirts, oversized sweaters and mini dresses in white, dark green, peach, black and cream. The result was a serious and elegant collection for a woman who wants to be stylish without showing too much.

It was all about zips and short dresses in the romantic and stylish collection from Os Burgueses. Red, black and white colours where mixed with fabrics such as denim, leather and wool to create a chic collection that oozed “high-school elegance”, sophistication and sensuality.

Male models barefoot with long coats, thick jumpers and scarves presented a look perfect for snowy days and cold winters in style. Grey was the protagonist in this practical collection with an icy feel by designer Daniel Dinis.

Reminiscent of the punk movement and the world of hockey, Maria Gambina presented a rebellious collection where strong colours such as electric blue, red, black and white were combined with padded technical fabrics and original ankle boots, which looked like skates, to create striking designs that exuded attitude and provocation.

To the rhythm of Portuguese guitar the show started, and what a show it was! Fur shined in this stunning and trendy collection by Miguel Vieira, for women and men who want to show off their most glamorous side. A series of exquisite outfits for dandies and femme fatales who want to feel like a hundred million dollars. Bow tie, white trousers and shirts combined with elegant trainers was the main look for men, while for women fur everywhere, from skirts to sleeves, long evening gowns and high-waisted skirts with sequins were the key pieces in this luxurious and tremendously chic catwalk show.

Nuno Baltazar’s collection, “The man I love”, displayed sophisticated and feminine silhouettes in a colour palette of blacks, oranges and greys. Nuno makes a personal interpretation of Pina Bausch’s universe and analyzes the female condition featuring elegant and urban pieces in soft fabrics such as cotton, viscose and wool. Bodysuits, one-shoulder dresses and big puffy sleeves were accessorized with stilettos and clutches creating stylish and timeless designs.

Lisbon Fashion Week presented original designs that had a commercial feeling and awareness of the consumers’ needs and preferences. Although this year’s edition was affected by Portugal’s economic crisis and the loss of one of its main sponsors, Portuguese designers are claiming their place in the fashion world with inspiring and innovative pieces.

For more images from Lisbon Fashion Week check out the AGENT2 Facebook page.

 Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

1st – Cargo, London with Sharon Van Ette
9th – Indra, Hamburg – Germany
10th – Comet, Berlin – Germany
11th – Loppen, Copenhagen – Denmark
13th – Silbergold, Frankfurt – Germany
14th – 007, Prague – Czech Republic
15th – B72, Vienna – Austria
16th – Apartamento Hoffman, Conegliano – Italy
17th – Covo Club, Bolgna – Italy
18th – Circolo Degli Artisti, Rome – Italy
20th – Rocket, Milan – Italy
21st – Bad Bonn, Dudingen – Switzerland
22nd – L’Epicerie Moderne, Lyon – France
23rd – Le Cargo de Nuit, Arles, France
24th – Cooperative De Mai, Clermont – Ferrand – France
26th – Le Divan Du Monde, Paris – France
27th – Charlatan, Gent – Belgium

www.myspace.com/stillcorners

Words Tamsin Worrad

- CHRISTO VLADIMIROV JAVACHEFF AKA CHRISTO, BULGARIAN ARTIST

Bulgaria could be described as an art project that takes years, even decades to prepare and finally blossoms into a great and unique place competing with Greece and Turkey for the multitude of reasons why tourism would be drawn in. Bulgarians are aware of their country’s tremendous potential for its upcoming revival and their enthusiasm is contagious. No need to tell the story about how Bulgaria infinitely suffered during the stern and cold decades of communism and how its relatively new alliance with Western Europe has helped to heal its past.

Bansko – Natural Touch

What a beautiful way to start exploring Bulgaria by going skiing in a World Natural Heritage location, 160 kilometres from Sofia, in Bansko, which is also known as the winter capital of the Balkans. Nestled in the breathtakingly region of the Perin Mountains, Bansko is one the prettiest ski resort, because of its small size and the top quality of its powder snow. The resort has 75 kilometres of prime quality ski runs and 17 tracks groomed to perfection by a modern snow system – which allows skiers to enjoy the slopes 6 months a year! You can ski from November to April and Mountain Bike from May to October – using the gondolas from the resort.

A current dispute debates the efficiency of the resort and has voiced the desire to deforest a small part of the UNESCO protected national park to make the resort bigger, therefore with speedier access. From what was gathered from conversations with Bulgarians, cards are being played slowly but with brains, enabling them to take the right and wise decision regarding their resort. The natural beauty of the park is important to preserve and the fact that the resort is smaller adds to its charm tremendously.

Where to stay

Apart Hotel Lucky Bansko 

There are a lot of hotels in that small village but if you are going to Bulgaria to enjoy a ski trip with a luxury twist, Apart Hotel is the closest you can get and possibly the quirkiest. The Apart Hotel has a certain wow factor with its ultra modern architecture and great spa facilities. There is a free shuttle service between the hotel and the ski resort’s lifts – which is quite reliable. Ranging from fully furnished studios to one bedroom apartments equipped with a working fireplaces, that sort of accommodation is guarantee to make you enjoy you ski holiday a tad further. For an Apartment Executive, you will pay from 70 – 80 Euros, depending on high or low season (high season being January to March). luckybansko.com

Where to eat

Dedo Pene

This traditional pub-restaurant is located in the old part of Bansko, where the streets are paved with cobbled stones, near by the stupendously impressive walled Church Sveta Troitsa. The homemade wine is absolutely great and goes to perfection with the perhaps heavy traditional dishes served there. Try the unique cabbage-turkey-pork dish that will remind you of Christmas and will be quite filling after a day spent on the slopes. The most intriguing of the evening was the magical dancing and singing from the guest Gypsies artists. It was of course worlds apart from what we use to see on the TV program Big Fat Gypsy Weddings, where travellers are often portrayed as lawless, loud, and depraved of any taste. Here, Gypsies keeps traditional music alive for future generations, making them wanted and respected by Bulgarians. The Inn is the oldest of its kind in Bansko and has the coolest artefacts on their walls – Exotic swords, quirky icons and other mind-blowing objects hanging by the toilet doors (I leave it to you to discover what they are). dedopene.com/bansko_dedopene_gallery_en.html

Where to party after 

Bash Bar

The place is pretty small by extremely lively. There is a DJ in the corner, choosing the music on the laptop and depending on his mood, he will play classic and not so classic rock anthems from Megadeath to Metallica and Iron Maiden to Black Sabbath. I even requested to have a great Nirvana classic and some of Smashing Pumpkins great tunes played, but without any success. When he managed to play Smells like Teens Spirit, the energy was renewed and we danced with juvenile excitement. There is a cosy fireplace that warms you up when you come in, the booze is cheap and the crowd is mostly local, making it even more authentic. skiguidebg.com/ski-resorts-in-bulgaria/bansko/item/bash-bar

Sandanski – Wealth and Health 

Though their mineral water wealth hasn’t quite been fully exploited much during the Communist dark ages, Bulgarians are now ready to completely expose to the world their amazing and unique fortunes. Bulgaria ranks amongst the first in Europe in terms of wealth and diversity of hydrothermal waters and bioclimatic treatment resorts in Sandanski. The Romans had once established a very large settlement around mineral springs in the city originally called Dezudava. Don’t miss the monument of Spartacus, the famous member of the Thracian tribe, at the entrance of the town that brings you to believe that your sojourn here will be memorable. Again, the Communist era look floats in the air, with its countless tower blocks and crude grey cement habitations but the sun projects the most amazing light and the surreal architecture mix will excite your senses, inspiring you to take countless pictures.

The town is internationally renowned for its balneo-therapeutic and natural healing properties as well as enjoying a unique micro-climate. Sandanski is a hot spot for spa and wellbeing tourism and the town has now a reputation for being the best European natural healing centre for bronchial asthma.

Where to stay 

Pirin Park Hotel 

From the patio door, you have a priceless natural package of a view; beautiful waterfall, woodland and the mountains (ask for a mountain view when booking your room). The best Spa complex in the Balkans with 5 shiny stars, the hotel is superbly furnished and the Zen look of the gardens and the view from my room made me feel relaxed right away. Even though the hotel’s specialization is mainly targeting lungs, respiratory tract and pulmonary diseases, the location offers non-medical, plainer spa treatments as well that targets wider audiences including facial therapy, pleasure body therapy, body massage, facial ritual and rejuvenating therapy seekers. The hotel offers outdoor and indoor swimming pools at 29 degrees Celsius, thermal pool with mineral water at 37 degrees Celsius, Jacuzzi, Sauna Park and relaxes zone, pearl baths or whirlpool, a gym, a solar studio and a luxury beauty centre that offers cosmetic adjustments.

Before indulging in one of their treatment, you have to tear your brain apart to finally point at the one tailored for you. In the menu, there is a large section on massages, counting Indian, Moroccan, Australian, Chocolate, Classic, Sports, Pregnancy and Healing amongst them. Smaller sections offering peelings (Coffee, Grape seed, Herbal…), Klapp Therapies with the very intriguing ‘Body ceremony of gold’, ‘Face ceremony of gold’ and Caviar power face ritual. Further down, there are sections on body masks and body Spa Rituals including the ‘Space trip massage’ and the one I opted for, Oxygen cocktail for body.

I first regretted the latter one, having to strip entirely to wear that tiny, little, mini G-string to get it. The exposure of my un-fit body was quite annoying but felt revigorated as well as oxygenated at the end of the treatment, thinking it had been worth the stripping of my clothes. Finally, there are sections on Gourmet Pleasure Therapies, Gentle Epilation, Techno rituals, Hydrotherapy and Aroma therapeutic baths. You will feel like an overindulging king puzzled in front of that extensive list of services. parkhotelpirin.com

After my treatment, go for a walk to the town that seemed so surreal from the bus. There is a huge pine forest separating the hotel – located on a hill – and the town, which is quite easy to get through and rightfully used by the hotel clients to air their lungs with the purest air around, using the river as a guide. Even on a grey day, the air was definitely different here and it was easy to feel the microclimate of the place.  Don’t miss the giant bold communist abstract sculptures in one of the park surrounding the river.

The experience here was somewhat short and so much more is to be discovered in that rich and relatively unexplored country. The wine, the national parks, the monasteries, Sofia – the capital (with its Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Turkish, Classical European and without missing the whole lot of old Communist relics, the spas, the ski and of course the après-ski. Bulgaria is for everyone with a soft spot for discovering the unexplored, the great avant-garde spas, great skiing experience and of course, thirsty for places without the obvious beauty veneer.

How to get there 

You can get direct flights to Sofia from London and Manchester. lufthansa.com

All hotels listed in the article have shuttle services for clients from the airport in Sofia.

For more information visit bulgariatravel.org or bulgariannationalparks.org

Words and Images Vincent Bernier

FASHION DESIGNER AND MODEL DANISH WAKEEL PRESENTED HIS FIRST WEARABLE MENSWEAR COLLECTION AT ONE IN LEICESTER SQUARE.

Danish’s collection, “Draped Modern Kouroi”, is inspired by the concept of drapes, which in the past were worn by Greeks, Egyptians, Romans… Nowadays, drapes are usually associated with women but Danish breaks boundaries creating traditional outfits with a modern twist such as togas, frock coats, sarongs and caftans.

The show started with the presentation of the fashion film “Danish Wakeel’s The Ivory Tower”, a short movie that showcased Danish’s new collection and analysed the different sides of the fashion industry from Danish’s point of view.

Mixing street style with classic British tailoring and luxurious fabrics, the collection featured structured silhouettes in a colour palette of black, white, dark red and blue for confident and stylish men who want to be noticed wherever they go, highlighting the “diva-attitude” inside them.

The key pieces were a beautifully crafted black long jacket, an asymmetric jacket with floral prints, a revealing short top and the stunning final piece: an elegant white suit with a matching t-shirt.

A truly unique collection that showed off the most seductive, intriguing and fashionable side of men.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

POP MUSIC HAS SOMETHING OF A BAD NAME THESE DAYS BUT IT’S ALWAYS WORTH REMEMBERING THAT WHEN IT’S GOOD, IT’S VERY VERY GOOD. BE GRATEFUL THEN FOR ENGLAND WITHOUT RAIN, THE LATEST OFFERING FROM TALK LESS SAY MORE (AKA MATTHEW JENNINGS) THAT GOES SOMEWAY TO RECTIFYING THIS WHILST REMINDING US JUST HOW GLORIOUS GOOD POP MUSIC CAN BE. 

An addictively catchy record, it spans hip-hop, indie, pop, electronica and dance whilst refusing to be pigeon holed within any one genre. A comparison to Hot Chip would be the lazy shortcut but realistically TLSM makes music like no-one else out there. The record packs an almost impossible amount into it’s mere 37 minutes; traditional Chinese instrument the guzheng sits alongside 80s inspired synths, layered vocals and electronic beats. Clever lyrics & word play have long been a feature of Jennings’ work and he’s on top form here, from referencing Eastern mythology (England Without Rain) to using genetics as a metaphor for love (The Double Helixx). The album opens with something of a mission statement in ‘I Feel Like Making a Record’, a brilliantly post-modern sideways look into the musical process: ‘I feel like making a record or everything I’m feeling/being careful not to be too revealing’. The rest of the tracks easily live up to the promise of this starter, with Black Eyes as a high point in a whole stream of brilliance. It’s joyful, pure pop and will be stuck in your head for days to come. The album reaches it’s climax with Double Helixx before coming to an abrupt end which leaves you craving more; it’s impossible not to avoid an immediate repeat listen.

Thanks then, to Jennings for showing us that pop is categorically not dead. Long live pop.

The record will be released through Creative Commons record label Records on Ribs as a free download (as with all their releases) on 26th February and you can stream the whole below right now. 

Talk Less, Say More – England Without Rain by Records On Ribs

Words Tamsin Worrad

1940S GLAMOUR WITH A VERY MODERN TWIST WAS THE ORDER OF THE DAY AT THE BERNARD CHANDRAN SHOW IN THE VAUXHAULL FASHION SCOUT VENUE AT FREEMASON’S HALL. THE SIZE OF THE CROWD WAITING TO PACKED INTO THE VENUE WAS A CLEAR INDICATOR OF THE POPULARITY AND BUZZ SURROUNDING THE DESIGNER.

The show opened with two models walking in tandem in day suits, but it was the unusual details in the eveningwear that really stood out through the collection. The vintage feel of the collection was emphasised by the classic victory rolls worn by the models, while extreme detailing and textures kept it firmly in 2012. Neck adornment was key and ranged from oversized collars to sequined embellishment matching the lip shaped invites sent out to attendees, while the dresses themselves featured cut out shapes, heavy sequinning and sharp angles. The shades of the collection stayed mostly in the monochrome set with occasionally forays into vivid blue and blush pink. The most striking look in the collection was that of a vibrant blue lace evening dress covered in fur detailing which clung to the curves of the model for maximum impact. A less wearable collection than the designer’s previous perhaps, but an exciting one which goes a long way to showing why such celebrities as Lady Gaga are such fans.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

Words Tamsin Worrad missbeliever.com

ENTITLED ‘BIRDS OF PARADISE’, THE DUTCH TWINS SENT THEIR MODELS FOR THEIR AUTUMN/WINTER SHOW GLIDING DOWN THE RUNWAY DRESSED IN A RICH AUTUMNAL PALETTE OF RUSTS, MUSTARDS, PURPLES AND BLUES WITH THE TITULAR BIRD EVIDENT IN NOT JUST THE COLOURS BUT EMBROIDERED ONTO CHESTS AND THROUGH FEATHERS ON PREPPY LOAFERS. BIRDS OF PARADISE ALSO REFERS TO THE REFERENCE THE DESIGNERS TOOK FROM UPPER CLASS SOCIALITES OF PREVIOUS DECADES WITH MODELS SPORTING HAIR PINNED INTO FAKE BOBS AND PATENT ALICE BANDS FOR A PARK PRINCESS FEEL.

There were stunning evening dresses in both jewel toned prints and block colours as well as elegantly feminine suits with belted waists and rich looking fur.  Easily the highlight look for me were the bold prints clashed against demure stripes as well as the addition of neon hooped earrings which peeped out from under the heavily styled hair and added an informal twist to the ladylike looks. Capped sleeves, fringing and dropped waists were reminiscent of a 1930s evening gown and demonstrated that the Gatsby inspired look will be around for a season longer yet.

Words Tamsin Worrad

MARK FAST KNOWS A THING OR TWO ABOUT CLOTHES AND ALSO HOW TO ATTRACT THE JET-SET AS KANYE WEST, NICOLA ROBERTS AND MOLLIE KING WERE AT THE FRONT ROW TO SEE HIS AWAITED COLLECTION.

Knitwear was the star in a show inspired by the lyrics “Questions in a World of Blue” from the David Lynch film Fire Walk with Me.

The combination of merino wool, cashmere and mohair with navy and sand shades gave a cool and energetic air to Mark’s creations.

Knitted dresses, big cardigans, crop tops and tight skirts were styled with elegant Louboutin shoes creating a chic and effortless look.

The result was fashionable and wearable pieces for a woman who wants be sophisticatedly grunge.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

ACCORDING TO GEORGIAN BELIEFS, LOOKING INTO A BROKEN MIRROR BRINGS BAD LUCK, BUT THAT WAS NOT THE CASE FOR DESIGNER LAKO BUKIA AS SHE PRESENTED HER SOPHISTICATED COLLECTION “BROKEN MIRRORS” AT FREEMASON’S HALL.

Models with high pony tails and thick eyebrow make-up opened the catwalk in sensual transparent tops, fitted leather trousers and suede skirts. The shoes were particularly striking too as high knee boots and ankle boots were finished with a heel that resembled a shard of glass.

The colour palette was mainly black and silver which combined with luxurious fabrics such as leather, silk and chiffon and “broken glass” embroidery created an extravagant and futuristic look, perfect for a chic night out.

A unique collection for fearless, confident and strong women who take life as it comes.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

SPANISH DESIGNER ELISA PALOMINO TOOK US TO HER DELICATE AND AVANT-GARDE UNIVERSE WITH A STUNNING COLLECTION OF LONG EVENING GOWNS AND TUNICS, INSPIRED BY FLORINE STETTHEIMER’S BOOK OF POEMS “CRYSTAL FLOWERS”, WHICH GIVES NAME TO THE COLLECTION.

Her designs paid tribute also to couturiers such as Paul Poiret and The house of Paquin, who used exotic fabrics, exquisite embroidery, and Chinese motifs printed in Alcantara.

Models in light purple wigs and extreme colourful make-up made an entrance in spectacular velvet gowns accessorized with bows and floral headpieces. Fuchsia, vibrant orange and black were the main colours in a collection for women who want to show their more delicate and feminine side with a touch of eccentricity.

Her key pieces were a fuchsia velvet gown with an ostrich feather goa, a leopard print cocktail dress with a matching jacket, a printed chiffon dress complemented with an orange goa and the spectacular final outfit: a black ostrich feather gown embroidered with butterflies.

For the first time, Elisa has created two fragrances: “rendez-vous”, with base notes of ruffled taffeta and lace, and “forbidden”, made with precious oils.

The result was a tremendously chic, striking and futuristic collection that highlights female power in a very seductive and intelligent way.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook for more images from the show.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

Indie rock outfit Maps & Atlases are due to release their second album later this year and we’re excited to give you a chance to hear the teaser track, Winter. Inspired by the Chicago winter, the track bounces along to a driving bass line with suitably icicle like spiky guitars. Turn the heating up & play it loud…the album, Beware and Be Grateful is out on the 16th April through FatCat records.

Words Tamsin Worrad

FASHION DESIGNER CARLOTTA ACTIS BARONE EXPRESSED SOCIAL ISSUES THROUGH FASHION WITH A SERIOUS AND PERSONAL COLLECTION INSPIRED BY THE EXTERMINATIONS THAT TOOK PLACE DURING THE HOLOCAUST.

The slogan put on the Auschwitz camp gates, “Work liberates”, is printed on her bodysuits, dresses and leggings to remind us that even during a horrific event like the Holocaust, the victims were still dreaming and hoping for a better life.

The colour palette was mainly dark colours: black, blue and purple, that put together with the smoke created a very sinister and tragic atmosphere.

The messy hair and obscure make-up added drama and sadness to a look, which wanted to impress and make us aware of how brutal and unfair our world has been and still is.

The symbolic “Davis star” from the Jewish culture has been translated to her outfits creating structured and rigid silhouettes.

Capes, bodysuits, asymmetric skirts and long evening gowns were the main highlights in a collection that oozed sobriety, fragility and tragedy but with a touch of hope and illusion.

Please check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

JOHN ROCHA HAS GOT INSPIRED BY MEMORIES FROM HONG LONG’S HAPPY VALLEY RACE TRACK AND THE PATTERNS AD COLOURS OF SEAN SCULLY’S CANVASSES TO CREATE A ROMANTIC AND ELEGANT COLLECTION THAT PLAYS WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF TEXTURES AND SILHOUETTES. 

Models with messy hair in voluminous taffeta jackets opened a show were the key pieces were lambskin coats, transparent long dresses with floral details and short leather jackets combined with long vaporous skirts that had a rock & roll, wild and naughty feel.

The colour palette was mainly black except for a few splashes of green and gold, that combined with luxurious fabrics such as satin, velvet, lace and cashmere created an interesting duality for women with strong personality, yet fragile; edgy yet sensitive, wild yet sweet.

John Rocha gave us a lesson of how to make “grunge chic” in an effortless way.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

THE CREATIVE LABEL FYODOR GOLAN MADE THEIR DEBUT IN SOMERSET HOUSE WITH AN ASTONISHING COLLECTION INSPIRED BY THE STORY OF ANASTASIA, THE ROMANV’S FAMILY MISSING DAUGHTER, WHO ESCAPED FROM HER ROYAL LIFE. THE DUO (FYODOR PODGORNY AND GOLAN FRYDMAN) HAS CONNECTED ANASTASIA’S MYTH WITH INSECTS, AS THEY ALSO CHANGE THEMSELVES FOR PROTECTION.

Using traditional weaving techniques, luxurious Mongolian velvets and lamb furs, Fyodor’s collection creates a magic and extravagant universe of striking and fragile silhouettes and sculpted lines that definitely have the “wow” factor.

The key pieces were long evening gowns that highlight the waist and coats in fur and leather in bright green, red, black and white, in a collection that breathes pure luxury, elegance and glamour.

Particularly captivating were also the sharp nose rings wore by the models and the eye make-up, both inspired by Ethel Granger.

The collection is available in selected boutiques worldwide: Harvey Nichols UK, Front Row Beirut and Alan Journo Milan, amongst others.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

 Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

SHOES IN ALL SHAPES (ANKLE BOOTS, PLATFORMS, METALLIC HEELS WITH SKULLS, HEEL LESS WEDGES) WERE THE STAR IN FLORIAN JAYET’S FUTURISTIC COLLECTION INSPIRED BY TRIBES AND CIVILIZATIONS OF THE PAST.

The “office-look-with-a-tribal-twist” created structured and contemporary silhouettes for a woman who wants to feel stylish, confident and powerful.

Earthy tones such as grey, light green and blue have been combined with draping and pleating techniques in a collection were the main highlights were high-waisted skirts and trousers combined with colourful shirts, leggings with tribal prints and a striking silver gown accessorized with facial jewellery, reminiscent of a burka.

Metallic nails and oversized rings completed a look, influenced by McQueen which mixes past and future creating edgy and sophisticated designs.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

ISRAELI DESIGNER INBAR SPECTOR OFFERED A TRULY SPLENDOROUS COLLECTION INSPIRED BY ESCAPISM AND THE WAY OF TRYING TO CHANGE OUR BODY TO REACH WHAT WE SEE AS IDEAL.

The catwalk opened with a model wearing extravagant jewellery over the face in gold perforated leather trousers.

Inbar’s dramatic signature style can be seen in the use of rich fabrics such as lace, silk and ruffles that combined with avant-garde silhouettes and complex constructions created a stunningly elaborated cutting-edge look.

Think of circus, clowns, fantasy, decadence, dreams, utopia… Inbar’s collection is as innovative, exquisite and creative as you can get.

Each outfit was a total masterpiece, specially the oversized jackets and coats combined with puffy skirts, the metallic body suits and the long evening gowns.

The colour palette included pastel colours such as smoky pink, light green and nude that mixed with black and gold created a magical and surrealist atmosphere.

The result was a spectacular collection designed for a woman who wants to escape from any type of conformism, break the rules and show her most outrageous side.

The audience couldn’t stop clapping and we definitely know why…

The headpieces were designed, especially for this collection, by Lara Jensen. In the future, Inbar is planning to launch a menswear and accessories collection.

Check out the AGENT2 Facebook page for more images from the show.

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley

THE LAST TWO DAYS OF MBFWM KEPT THE EXCITEMENT UP AS SOME OF THE MOST RENOWNED DESIGNERS IN SPAIN PRESENTED THEIR LATEST COLLECTIONS FOR AUTUMN/WINTER 2012-13.

Once again, Venezuelan designer Hannibal Laguna vowed the audience with an exquisite collection of spectacular evening dresses in silk organza, embroidery, burned feathers and lace. Black, the predominant colour in most of his pieces, was accompanied by gold and bronze in a collection inspired by the work of the Spanish painter Julio Romero de Torres. The result was a sophisticated and elegant collection that perfectly reflected the delicacy and sensuality of the Spanish woman. Without a doubt, the best collection of MBFWM. The show was also the perfect excuse to celebrate the launch of Hannibal’s new online boutique.

Davidelfin’s collection, “Will”, presented simple and elegant silhouettes in black, white and grey in a kind of office-look-with-a-twist. High-waisted skirts and tight dresses got complemented by zips, thin belts, Louboutin high-heels and bags made with oxygen tubes from labs. The fashion show closed with the performance of the Spanish singers Alaska, Mario Vaquerizo and Bimba Bose, who created the soundtrack exclusively for this collection.

Ana Locking’s collection, “Time Capsule”, comes back to the USA’s golden age of the 1920s that led to the Great Depression of the 1930s, linking it with our present economic crisis. Structured long white and black dresses, straight v-necks and jackets with geometrical cuts were the star pieces in a collection inspired by Art Deco for a woman who wants to feel sophisticated and glamorous without taking too may risks. The collection had a more commercial feeling than previous seasons due to the awareness of our difficult economic times.

To commemorate the tenth anniversary of the launch of his first fashion collection, Ion Fiz has partnered with Swarovski elements creating ten different colours, fabrics and silhouettes for strong and powerful women and men who want to be noticed wherever they go. For the daytime, Ion’s look is all about aviator sunglasses and hats, oversized bags, tulip skirts and 40’s style shirts. But the night had the last word with marvellous evening gowns in silk and satin with Swarovski crystals that embrace the feminine form in the most delicate way.

Inspired by big cosmopolitan cities, Kina Fernandez presented a chic collection that had a very down-to-earth and urban feel, where the main highlights were oversized coats, high-waisted trousers and knee-length skirts in black, dark orange and grey. The final part got glamed up with 40s style dresses full of sophistication, style and femininity.

Lady Gaga is a huge fan of her corsets and we definitely can see why. Think of 50’s New York, jazz clubs, Hollywood starlets, burlesque, haute couture, red carpet, luxury, fantasy, elegance… Maya Hansen is as provocative and striking as you can get. Her key piece, the corset, has been combined this time with long couture skirts and high-waisted trousers, that alongside with leather gloves, bows and Swarovski crystals, create a unique and powerful look for the ultimate femme fatale in her purest form.

Maria Barros showcased a mysterious and exciting collection that opens the doors to her story, her world. Models in striking long grey wigs presented enigmatic outfits that had a touch of nostalgia and austere elegance. Wrapped mini skirts and dresses accessorized with maxi-belts and black leather gloves were the key designs, featuring delicate and feminine silhouettes.

Toton Comella (TCN) mixed colourful lingerie with casual wear in a collection where hats, pyjama-style trousers, oversized jumpers, waistcoats and tweed mini shorts where the main highlights. TCN’s designs have a school-girl-meets-cool-granny style for women who want to wear comfortable clothes without losing their chicness.

To wrap up in style, Miguel Marinero closed Madrid Fashion Week with a very personal collection that paid tribute to the painter Gustav Klimt. Models with paintings as hats opened the catwalk in a collection characterized by the use of elegant and colourful fur coats, jackets made of soft glace lamb and leather corsets. Camel, turquoise blue and purple were the key colours in designs that breathe luxury, creativity and sensuality.

 Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Dan Harley and Getty Images

LONDON? PARIS? NEW YORK? MILAN? NO, IT´S MADRID FASHION WEEK BABY! SPANISH FASHION HAS COME BACK THIS YEAR WITH A NEW NAME, MERCEDES-BENZ MADRID FASHION WEEK (MBFWM), TO CONFIRM ITS STATUS AS THE BIGGEST AND MOST IMPORTANT SHOWCASE OF SPANISH FASHION AND STAMP ITS PRESENCE ON THE INTERNATIONAL MAP.

44 designers presented their creative ideas to the fashion world at the spectacular venue Feria de Madrid. More than just a series of catwalks, MBFWM is a visually stunning extravaganza where the most influential fashion magazines and brands have come together to create a unique show.

In different stands, we could see Spanish Vogue delicately crafting fashionable t-shirts, Hola! (the Spanish version of Hello!) inviting you to be photographed like a celebrity, L’Oreal bringing you insider tips about the latest make up and beauty products, and the kissing room, courtesy of Absolut Vodka, where designers welcomed their most exclusive guests after presenting their collections.

The fashion show was inaugurated by the Galician designer, Roberto Verino, who showcased a seductive collection inspired by the artistic, intellectual and bohemian world of New York in the 1970s. The main highlights were plastic and transparent trench coats to cover you in style on a rainy day, glamorous Great-Gatsby style cocktail dresses in black with embellishments, stunning fur coats with a touch of lace and beadwork and velvet grey jackets for men, reminiscent of American gangsters.

Jesus del Pozo looked at the Middle East to present a discreet collection where the main pieces were square ponchos, abayas, goatskin coats and jackets, and mermaid-style dresses for a woman who doesn´t want to show off too much and prefers to hide her curves with stylish and simple lines. The colour palette is made of undefined shades in grey, brown, dark blue and emerald green, which combined with a mixture of textures such as satin, organza and wool, creates an air of mysticism, nostalgia and escapism.

Francis Montesinos´s collection took us into a journey between tradition and innovation, past and future whose key pieces were striking evening gowns with flowery details and vaporous textures and stunning mini dresses in black and cream accessorized with long leather gloves. The result is a celebration of fashion, hand-craft work and art.

The usually flamboyant duo Victorio & Luchino presented a more austere collection inspired by the ambiance of the 1950’s and 60’s. Refined materials such as mink fur and velvet have been used to create a delicate and romantic look for “the girl next door”. Oversized fur pockets, 60s style boots and straight cropped jackets were the key pieces in a collection that had a very wintery feeling.

Elisa Palomino’s collection, “Winter Bloom”, paid tribute to cutting-edge icons such as Edith Sitwall and Elsie de Wolfe, to create an extravagant and surrealist style, with oriental touches, that celebrates glamour, eccentricity and luxury. The main highlights were stunning long gowns in vibrant reds and pinks, that adorned with pearls, feathers, brooches and floral headwear, created a very sophisticated and dream-like look. Elisa will also present her collection during London Fashion Week.

Argentinean designer Roberto Torretta presented a chic collection where he has mixed  mid 20th-century feminine purity with futuristic silhouettes creating a “retro-future” feel. Dresses in different lengths and shapes were the key pieces in a collection characterized by raglan sleeves, leather gloves and block colours. Roberto creates a sporty and modern look for daywear, while for the evening his designs transform into vaporous long dresses that ooze glamour and sophistication.

Catalan designer Andres Sarda brought back the “Moulin Rouge spirit” with a very sensual and seductive collection for confident women who dare to show off their sexier side. Dance with me! is a celebration of the cabaret world where luxurious fabrics such as haute couture lace, satin and silk are combined with black, red and white colours creating spectacular pieces that leave no one indifferent.

Miguel Palacio showcased an innovative collection inspired by Art Deco where the dress again is the key piece of clothing for a confident woman that wants to show off her curves and female power. Heavy materials such as wool and velvet are combined with the lighter silk and satin, to create volume and structured silhouettes that want to seduce, without being overly provocative.

The first part of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid offered an eclectic array of different looks and designs that can stand proudly alongside the other four major fashion weeks. Spanish fashion is firmly establishing its name in the fashion world with unique pieces that want to captivate, seduce, impress and remind us that fashion is an art form and one of the most fun ways to express yourself. To be continued…

Words Veronica Carpio Martin  Images Getty Images 

LONDON-BORN ENGLISH ACTRESS CAREY MULLIGAN CAME TO INTERNATIONAL PROMINENCE ON THE BACK OF HER ACADEMY AWARD-NOMINATED TURN IN LONE SCHERFIG’S AN EDUCATION, A ROLE FOR WHICH SHE ALSO EARNED BEST ACTRESS AWARDS FROM THE NATIONAL BOARD OF REVIEW, THE BRITISH INDEPENDENT FILM AWARDS AND BAFTA. SHE RECENTLY STARRED IN MARK ROMANEK’S ADAPTATION OF KAZUO ISHIGURO’S NEVER LET ME GO, WITH KEIRA KNIGHTELY AND ANDREW GARFIELD, AND ALSO IN OLIVER STONE’S WALL STREET 2: MONEY NEVER SLEEPS, PLAYING THE DAUGHTER OF MICHAEL DOUGLAS’S ICONIC CHARACTER. SHE ALSO STARRED AS KITTY IN JANE AUSTEN’S PRICE AND PREJUDICE. ADDITIONAL FILMS INCLUDE PUBLIC ENEMIES, THE GREATEST, BROTHERS, WHEN DID YOU LAST SEE YOUR FATHER AND DRIVE.

Carey has just won the best supporting actress award at the Hollywood Film Awards as well as the Detroit Film Critics Society Awards for her role in the tense drama Shame, directed by Steve McQueen where she plays Sissy, sibling to Michael Fassbender’s character, Brandon.  AGENT2 brings you this interview before the UK release of Shame.

Your character in Shame, Sissy, is another fantastic and really interesting part…

Yes. My agent gave me the script. She read it and she told me that there is this insane part of Michael Fassbender’s sister and I read it and I thought, ‘No way on earth will Steve McQueen ever let me play this.’ I thought they would cast someone gritty and American. So I met Steve thinking that there was no way this would come off and he kept on trying to leave! Like ten minutes into our meeting, he was like, ‘Right, okay, thanks.’ And I was, ‘Oh, no!’ And I kept making him sit down again.

What did you say to him?

I just said, ‘Look, Steve, the thing is’, and then I wouldn’t have anything to say. But we did end up talking about The Seagull, which is my big obsession. Playing Nina in The Seagull, I have never really recovered from it and I want to play Nina for the rest of my life, but I couldn’t find a film role that was on the same level, or as difficult or as interesting. Then when I read Shame I thought it was as difficult as Nina and that is what I told him, to convince him to let me do it.

Why is Sissy so close to Nina in The Seagull?

They both have an uncompromising nature. Both of them have the ability to jump without a safety net and they both have really, really high standards for love and for success and yet neither of them can meet them. There is a tragedy in that. When we were rehearsing for Shame, Steve and I talked a lot about Francesca Woodman who was an artist. She was a photographer, an American from Connecticut, and she started taking photographs when she was 15 years old. The majority of them were self-portraits and nudes and she killed herself; she jumped out of a building when she was 22 years old in 1981. I don’t know what it was about her but she had this same thing. She wasn’t afraid. She had no boundaries. She wouldn’t accept less than taking over and being seen and being heard. I don’t know why she killed herself but one of her frustrations was that she was not accepted in her time. People didn’t really appreciate her work and now, of course, her work is sold for thousands.

Tell me how Sissy fits into Shame…

I think Shame is about a man who is trying to control his life and won’t allow people to become intimate with him. He is trying to forget and has a regimented life and part of that is an addiction, his relationship with his sister and the people around him. But the sexual addiction has always been a side note to me, because I think it is more about how he connects with people and how any obsession or addiction informs how you behave towards the people around you. The sexual thing is obviously very specific and it is uncomfortable. I think that is Steve’s intention. It is funny because in the cinema if you make light of sex, or you are crude or you make a joke of it, then it’s fine and acceptable. But the minute you start to talk about it seriously it is unattractive and there is nothing in Shame that is very sexy. It makes you go away and never want to have sex again!

It must have been an intimidating role?

Terrifying. If I had been playing any kind of character, playing a tea lady, I would have been scared, because it was Steve McQueen and Michael Fassbender. The standards that they set are so high, so that in itself was terrifying. Added to that the particulars about the character, the music and the singing and all that stuff, it was a pretty big leap.

It’s an intense film, but can you also have a laugh when making the movie?

You can. I didn’t know what to expect because my first meeting with Steve was quite intense. He sort of riles you up. I almost cried! I think I did cry at our first meeting because he stirs up a desire to make art and no one else ever has ever done that in the same way. He really challenges you on why you make the choices that you make — what kind of films you make and why you are doing them. And that was really intimidating and alarming but he also reminds you why you want to act. He would come in when we were doing a take and he’d say, ‘Ah, Michael, you two seem like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’, and it was amazing. You’d be so in awe and at the same time he’d be telling you to do it better. He would be like, ‘It is half time and you are 4-0 up and you have got to be 8-0 up. You can do it.’ Stuff like that. Sometimes it would be very quiet but often he was like a real cheerleader. He can mess around, especially with Michael. 

The bathroom scene and the singing scene — was one more frightening than the other?

Singing. The singing was more nerve racking than the nude scene. The nude scene in the end was fine actually. I think I was nervous beforehand. I remember lying down in the bath in that bathroom and I knew that Michael was going to burst into the first take at any point and, strangely, I didn’t feel nervous at all. Whereas with the first take of the singing I was really scared. Steve always wanted it live and he wanted it in one take. So that set of requirements meant you couldn’t muck it up. We were there for about two hours and we did take, cut, take, cut. And the lyrics when you study them are desperate. It was really fun to play. I had singing lessons and a singing coach and she actually played the piano in the scene.

Have you sung much before?

I was in the choir at school. I sang in musicals and stuff but never the big roles and, weirdly, Belle & Sebastian asked me to sing on one of their songs last year. That was very scary. I was terrified. I had no idea. It was so random. They just rang up my agent and asked if I’d be interested and I was like, ‘Yeah!’ It was cool but so nerve-racking. Singing is terrifying. It was the scariest thing. Not the worst thing to do but it scared me to death.

When did you first think you wanted to do this as your career?

The first time I did a play was a musical, The King And I, when I was six in Düsseldorf. My brother was in it and I wasn’t which didn’t go down very well with me. That was the first thing I did. But I don’t think there was a light bulb moment when I thought of it as a career. I just always thought that this was what I was going to do.

And you’re currently shooting Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby. Is it ever so lavish?

Yes. His style is so unique to him and he is the only person who can do it. It is amazing doing a period film and really walking into sets where the design is so grand. It is perfect. It is accurate. It is so intricate. It helps inform the role. It was the same in Shame. We were in a tiny apartment, literally, much smaller than this whole room and that confinement was so helpful. Michael and I played out scenes in one shot and it was really just the tiniest space and that made you feel claustrophobic. It is the same with Gatsby; the design and the set informs your work and it is so helpful.

SHAME is released in the UK and Ireland on 13 January

Check out AGENT2′s great SHAME t-shirt and DVD bundle giveaway courtesy of Momentum pictures here.

For more information; facebook.com/shameuk or follow @shamefilm

NEW DELHI, THE CAPITAL OF INDIA, EXHILARATES IN PASSION, CULTURE AND LOVE. A COUNTRY BURSTING WITH FLAVOURS AMONGST THE FOOD, PEOPLE AND THE HISTORIC LANDMARKS THAT I CAME ACROSS, UPON MY TRAVELS TO THIS BEAUTIFUL CITY.

When I was invited to the APEDA Basmati for the World food conference in New Delhi, India, I was so overly excited, India is such a beautiful country, from the climate to the people to the aromas of the spices, I certainly do adore Mother India.

After departing from London, I landed at 5am on the Monday at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. Outside  the weather was very foggy. We left in the fog and arrived in the fog, it almost felt as though I went round in the air and ended back at Heathrow. The journey in total with the delay was 9hours.

The journey to hotel from the airport was about 20 minutes, I was staying at The Grand Hotel, a newly refurbished hotel for when the Commonwealth Games took place in 2010. As I arrived to the hotel and descended the bus, had to go through the metal detectors, security in India is very high due to the 2009 bombings. The white reception lobby was of a large size, overlooking the gardens. On arrival at check in, breakfast was served at the Crystal Lounge on the lower ground floor. The view was amazing with the gardens in front, massive palm, beautiful flower trees lined together. There was an array of different cuisines for breakfast, the waitress took me around and showed me the indian, chinese, english and continental. I was so lost for choice but I played it safe as I was very sleepy. Juice was served in small little glass bottles, which was so handy and a glassful.

The room was big and airy, the bathroom was the size of my bedroom at home, decked out in black tiles, an oval mirror with the toiletries at the far end, a tub, walk in shower and a sink. Sliding doors for the toilet and wardrobe. Also there were two entrances to the bathroom, one was from the corridor as soon as you enter from the main door, and the other was the sliding door beside the bed. The sliding door was covered with a full mirror. The room definitely wasn’t short of any mirrors, definitely handy for any woman. The bed was very comfortable after a 9 hour flight.

Monday afternoon was all about sight seeing, boarded the bus at 4pm, the hotel was situated near a massive modern contemporary shopping mall where you’d find the likes of Zara, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and etc. Driving around Delhi was nice, the constant horning, overtaking, but still abiding by the law of using traffic lights and the one way system. When you visit India, you are suddenly hit by the constant chaos, the population of the people, the cars and motorbikes, and the occasional quiff of smell in the air, also the cows, buffalos, dogs and goats roaming the streets. New Delhi is very modernised with the Metro system in place, thousands of people use it everyday, the most busiest is at 6pm, nobody wants to be on a train and get squashed like an ant at that time. Drove past The India Gate – which resembles the ‘Arc De Triomphe‘ in Paris. India Gate commemorates the 70,000 soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919.

Next to past was the Red Fort – situated in Old Delhi, it is the focal point of modern India and attracts a major crowd on each Independence Day. It was a real shame the bus didn’t stop at these major hot spots. History is what makes India so special.

Along the drive we went past the Indian Crown Courts, Parliament House, Gandhi Museum and the Indian Wall Street. Stopping at Jama Masjid the great and largest mosque in Old Delhi, with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. The highly decorative mosque has three great gates, four towers, and two 40m high minarets constructed of stripes, red sandstone and white marble. I had to cover up fully, so robes were provided to me prior entering, dress like a local without feeling like an outsider.

After visiting the Jama Masjid, riding on the bicycle tuk tuks was quite an experience, the strength of one small man pulling two ladies isn’t an easy job. We went round the block of Chandni Chowk seeing the sights of the food markets, street stalls, jewellery shops and the hanging cables. The road was very uneven, had pot holes everywhere, I think I lost quite a few brain cells with the constant bashing into the side rails. A must if you are ever in India!

Dinner was at Park Balluchi, a lovely little restaurant, as there was a big crowd of us, they gave us the conservatory seating area. It was a mild chilly evening, a comparison from the afternoon heat. Park Balluchi is a flagship fine dining restaurant with beautiful natural surroundings with lush greenery all around the place. The cuisine was Hyderabadi, Awadhi and Punjabi. A selection of white and red wine was on constant rotation, never short of a breath as was the water. One by one a waiter came and served me food, one piece at a time, the accompaniments were placed on the table first of chutneys and poppadams. First came the baby chicken, juicy, tender and fell off the bone easily, followed by that was paneer archari tikka – soft cheese cooked in a big open tandoor. Flame grilled banarsi seekh kebabs, the fire still burning from the skewer which was in the chefs hand was awesome. So lovely, could definitely taste the chalky charcoal and the tenderised meat. The rest of the meal was fabulous, it was every foodies dream, the rich curry flavours exploded in my mouth, the homemade naan accompanied with the rice and daals. The salads, chutneys and the dessert was superb and the service was tremendous.

The APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export development Authority) ‘Basmati for the World 2011′ food conference took place in the conference hall of the hotel. A spacious setting for very few people. A lesson in the finest Indian Basmati Rice. It was a rather dramatic event, the Minister of Commerce and Industry Anand Sharma lit the diva and all of a sudden the Darude house anthem came on, consisting of a lot of bass and thumping.

A life lesson in Basmati: ‘Bas’ means ‘Aroma’, ‘Mati’ means ‘Full of’. Around the world there are 10,000 varieties of rice, and yet Basmati does stand out as the most gourmet of them. It offers an amazing sweet fragrance, an unmistakeable yet delicate taste, almost nutty. It is also quite easy to differentiate, a number of rice’s are sticky, but this isn’t. Each grain is perfectly separated from the other. I heard it was once used in the household of the ‘Raja’s and Rani’s’ of India, now its just as special as its used in every household, ‘King in the Indian Rice Basket’.

Basmati is a versatile long grain of rice, can be used in almost anything,  I saw and tasted many dishes made by the international chefs at the Chefs Conclave, such as Puff Basmati Rice with Star Anise Custard by Matt Edmonds. It was very delicious, the rice without the custard had like a sweet, coconut taste, once the custard was poured on top, the star anise flavour bursted out, it reminded me of liquorice in a bowl of rice. Perfect for a dessert or a snack even. Basmati Rice Risotto by David Charles Fenton was intricate, delicate in taste and the long grain of rice tasted heavenly. Once you have experienced its fragrance or taste, it is one engrained in your memory and you can recognise its aroma as soon as you are in its vicinity.

The Basmati Coffee Table Book was launched during the ceremony, edited by Shilpi Gupta – Head Chef at The Grand. The book gives an outline of the rice and many recipes such as Thai Basil Fried Rice by Shilpi Gupta, French Rice Ball Fritters by Lionel Levy, Candid Prunes in Red Wine Stuffed With Vanilla Rice Pudding, Italian Style Basmati Risotto in Pizza Calzone by Alfonso Lomanco, and many more to get your taste buds tantalising. The book is a great idea for someone who needs inspiration, recipes from India, Europe, Eurasia and America, you simply wouldn’t want to leave your kitchen.

Went to a tourist market called ‘Dilli Haat’ its a very pricey market, almost like a fake take on a real market. They have wooden carved tables and animals, pashmina shawls, bags, bangles and shoes. Every other stall is selling the same thing but for a higher price. Even if you try to bargain they still won’t shift, so really its much easier to buy from a fixed price shop than it is from Dilli Haat. There wasn’t really much to see, I was rather disappointed as the trip didn’t consist of anything original.

The Taj Mahal was definitely one of the best highlights of the trip. It took 5 hours to get there from the hotel leaving at 7:30am, the tour guide Poonam was really good at explaining the significance and why it was build. Along the journey I saw snake charmers, performing monkeys and vast land of green fields. The constant honking and overtaking is what makes India so lively. Upon reaching Agra, the temperatures were exhilarating hot reached about 28 degrees. Agra is a city on the banks of the River Yamuna in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the seven wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra.

Completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Shah Jahan as a resting place for his beloved wife. Finished in white marble, this perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years of labour and 20,000 worker, masons and jewellers to build and is set amidst the landscaped gardens. Built by the Persian architect Ustad Isa, the Taj Mahal stands majestically on the banks of the River Yamuna, the synonymous of love and romance.

My thought whilst watching the Taj is the immeasurable beauty, glistening in the sun, the exquisite ornamentation and its picturesque location. From afar it looks so tiny but up close its a postcard brought to life. Everything I have ever imagined!

Words and images Priya Kerai

Amy Childs has been given a makeover like never before. Topman GENERATION’s unique photoshoot turns Amy into the face of a mysterious and mythical bohemian rock’n'roll band from the mid-70s. With Art Direction from Editor John-Paul Pryor, Fashion photographer Michael Hemy (Tom Ford, Dazed & Confused, Louis Vuitton) turns the instantly recognisable star of TOWIE, and current show It’s All About Amy, into a sophisticated 70s glamour puss, tipping an aesthetic nod to the reportage-style glamour of Bob Richardson.

Adorned head-to-toe in classic vintage sourced by much talked about stylist Melissa Thompson (AnOther Magazine, Dazed & Confused), Essex siren Amy Childs is joined in her fictional rock’n'roll troupe by her vampish male bohemian cohorts. This is Amy Childs as you have never seen her before; this is Amy Childs, Voodoo Child.

See Amy Childs on Channel 5 in her show “It’s All About Amy” on Thursday December 29, 2011, at 10:00pm. “It’s All About Amy” on Channel 5 will be back in the New year from January 12, on from 11:00pm.

Topman GENERATION: www.magazine.topman.com

DOWN A VERY PRETTY MEWS IN MAYFAIR ON FRIDAY NIGHT, IN A HIDDEN AWAY GALLERY CALLED MAGGS GALLERY, WAS HALF OF LONDON’S NEW ART FOLLOWERS.

The wet weather and packed garden bar showed how not even a damp day in the capital could keep people away.

NA or New Artists is aiming to provide short-term exhibition, popping up and disappearing again, moving around rich architectural spaces around London that gets the viewer away from usual gallery spaces or museums.

The artists that showed their work in this cosy space was Richie Culver, Shorvon and Hunter with a scattering of William Burroughs photographs and occult paraphernalia.

Richie Culvers autobiographical work attempted to communicate with a subject following a loss. He brings together a plethora of old pictures and collages and adds a witty caption.  It showed what he wanted to say to family members to failed relationships but may never have got around to saying. It is as if he looks at the picture and says the first memory that has flashed before his eyes.  We all have a bank in our mind of things we wish we had said, this exhibition moved and was easily relatable.

Nicholas Shorvan and Ben Hunter were on the top of my list for the evening. The selection of bronze sculptures with it strange and allegorical melting soldiers, dealt with the often surreal documentations of war, with the bronze material referencing the war memorials of the past. It was part of a bigger exhibit about man’s use of violence in his innate quest for more…..Same shit different day, and opened thought provoking questions about how the even though the bronze was varied the subject was the same.

The art of the evening was certainly up to scratch, and the after party didn’t disappoint. Held at Le Baron with Jack Penate and Paloma Faith heading to the decks, the night rounded up well, after a few whiskey punches on offer at the exhibition. Hopefully this guerilla art project is one of many.

Words Jennifer Butler

Whether you’re shopping for your girlfriend, sister, or best friend, we’ve found the year’s hottest gifts to please every gal on your list. From a super-slick smartphone to pretty pocket-size wireless speakers, we reveal the nine hottest gadgets she’ll love this holiday.

Samsung GALAXY Note

When it comes to smartphones, the GALAXY Note is quite possibly the best out there. Not only does it have the world’s first 5.3-inch HD Super AMOLED screen, which provides an incomparable high-resolution viewing experience, it also comes with an 8-megapixel camera complete with photo and video editing, and the advanced S Pen to personalize everything you do. If you really want to wow her this holiday, grab one of these.

Samsung Series 9 Notebook

Built with the same material as an advanced aircraft, this Samsung notebook is twice as strong as aluminium yet weighs less than three pounds. Plus, it features a backlit keyboard, brilliant LCD display screen, and a large multitouch clickpad. All in all, a pretty sharp package she’ll love.

Nintendo 3DS

Girls are gamers too—and the Nintendo 3DS is something at the top of any gamers’ list this holiday. The 3-D screen is best in class and doesn’t require 3-D glasses—a real breakthrough in portable entertainment. If she likes gaming, she’ll love this.

Native Union Pop Phone

This funky retro handset is ideal for anyone who loves all things vintage. Featuring a classic look with a contemporary edge, the handset plugs directly into a mobile phone, computer, or tablet for an old-school chatting experience.

Polaroid Instant Digital Camera

Recapture the magic of instant photography with this new Polaroid camera. Using the latest inkless printing technology, you can instantly transform digital photos into fun 3-by-4-inch photos that can be shared spontaneously. And inkless printing means no messy ink cartridges to worry about!

Juicy Couture Faux-Fur Earmuff Headphones

There’s no better gift for a stylish, tech-savvy woman than these super-cute faux-fur headphones. Not only will she be impressed that you’re familiar with fashion label Juicy Couture, she’ll love that she can rock out to her MP3 player in high style.

Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch

If she’s always reading a new novel or browsing her favorite weekly mag, we bet she’ll adore Barnes and Noble’s second-generation Nook. This upgraded e-reader is faster, lighter, and thinner than its predecessor—and boasts a two-month battery life (that’s an entire month more than the Kindle!). And with its library of more than 2.5 million books, she’ll never run out of titles to download. 

Jawbone Jambox

No more cords or docking systems: The chic-but-powerful Jambox speaker is wireless, small enough to fit in your hand, and mighty enough to fill even the largest room. And with 10 hours of battery life, it won’t die as the party peaks. 

Sony 3-D Bloggie HD Camera

This sleek handheld camera shoots in astonishing 3-D HD sure to impress any recipient on your gift list this year. Bonus: The LCD screen features 3-D playback—no special glasses needed!

Check out our Techie Holiday Gift Guide for Him here.

You can’t avoid it any longer—it’s time to start thinking about holiday shopping. But this year, skip the traditional go-to gifts of sweaters and boxers, and instead impress your family and friends with cutting-edge gadgets and gear. From the latest and greatest smartphone to the best handheld gaming system, we reveal the hottest gifts of 2011.

Samsung GALAXY Note

Samsung has taken the smartphone to a whole new level with the GALAXY Note. Featuring a large and immersive screen, best-in-class mobile input ‘with a touchscreen and the advanced S Pen, a full suite of features including built in photo and video editing capabilities, this is must-have for your most discerning gift recipients.

Samsung LED 8000 Series TV

This incredible television is something everyone should experience: From its visually stunning LED HD picture to its Smart TV capabilities with a solid collection of apps including Facebook and Skype, it’s a must-have for anyone who’s a gadget lover.

Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch

The latest generation of the Barnes and Noble e-reader is faster, lighter, and thinner than its predecessor. And we haven’t even gotten to the best part: The new Nook has a two-month battery life (that’s an entire month more than the Kindle!). With its library of more than 2.5 million books, this is a dream come true for any book lover.

Samsung LED 8000 Series TV

This incredible television is something everyone should experience: From its visually stunning LED HD picture to its Smart TV capabilities with a solid collection of apps including Facebook and Skype, it’s a must-have for anyone who’s a gadget lover.

Casio Tryx Camera

There always seems to be a snazzy new handheld camera hitting the market—but this one rises way above the rest. The insanely flexible 12-megapixel Tryx can turn, twist, hang, and stand unassisted to get shots you never thought possible.

Sony HD 3D Camcorder

Sony’s new camcorder isn’t the first to tout two lenses—but it is the first to have two imaging sensors and two processors. What does that mean?  Unbelievably clear playback and the ability to seamlessly go from 3-D to 2-D HD and back.

Jawbone ERA Bluetooth Headset

Want to really impress him? This is the only headset on the market equipped with military-grade noise-cancelling technology to ensure the least amount of background noise possible during important phone calls. The design is really cool too.

Garmin GTU 10 GPS Tracker

This lighter-size tracker combines a Web-based tracking service with GPS technology so you can keep an eye on children, pets, or personal property. View the location of your tracker from your computer or, if you prefer, your mobile device. Perfect for the person who can’t get enough James Bond.

 Livescribe Echo Smartpen (2GB)

Not only does this pen create digital backups of handwritten notes (when used with special paper), it also can record up to 400 hours of audio. Did we mention it has a camera too?

Nintendo 3DS

In the landscape of handheld gaming devices, the 3DS might not have the deepest selection of game titles. But what it lacks in selection it more than makes up for in its incredible, all encompassing 3-D experience (minus the glasses!). Once you play it, you’ll never put it down.

Nike Plus Sportswatch GPS (Powered by TomTom)

When Nike partnered with GPS powerhouse TomTom to create the Sportswatch GPS, we knew greatness would happen—and we weren’t disappointed. The watch tracks your time, distance, pace, and calories burned and seamlessly connects all this info with the NikePlus website to help you manage your running. Pretty slick.

FOR THE NEW STUDENTS AT HOLLYOAKS COLLEGE, FRESHERS WEEK HAS IS NOTHING MORE THAN A DRUNKEN BLUR SINCE THEIR OCTOBER STORYLINES DRAMATICALLY UNRAVELLED AND THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING TO LECTURES WAS DWARFED BY THE THREAT OF A PSYCHOTIC SERIAL KILLER IN THE VILLAGE.

Now, after having chance to settle in, the new members of the cast talk to AGENT2 about how Hollyoaks is their very own, albeit dream-like, university experience.

Tamaryn Payne, 23, plays Annalise Appleton. She’s a very uptight perfectionist. She puts pressure on herself to succeed and is scared of falling off the pedestal her parents have put her on. Annalise is a clean freak, she likes everything in its place and likes the steadiness of being in a relationship.

Holly Weston, 26, plays Ash Kane. Ash is fun loving, she likes a drink and is one of the lads but she does have a bit more depth to her. She studies psychology and thinks about why she is the way she is.

Tom Scurr, 21, plays Barney Harper-McBride. Barney is lovely. He’s a real fish out of water – wonderfully posh and had complete reality check when he arrived in Hollyoaks. He’s nice though, not pretentious or up himself and not the type to splash the cash. He is keen to adapt so he can be absorbed into the Hollyoaks way of life. It’s one massive adventure for him because everything is new and he has started to fit in for the 1st time.

James Atherton, 24, plays Will Savage. Will is geeky, in a cool way and really into studies. He is coming out of shell with his new mates because he was always overshadowed by his brother. He’s getting more confident. He will still be into his studies but become a bit more extrovert  as people do when they get to uni and start being comfortable with people.

Calvin Denba, 18, plays Scott Sabeka. He’s very laid back and has a cheekiness about him. He appears confident but he lacks self-belief at the same time because he doesn’t have the drive to fully go for anything. He is a bit half hearted and quite sensitive in his own way. He’s not the energy of the group he just keeps everything bang in the middle.

David Atkins, 22, plays Rob Edwards – He’s not the typical jock, he’s a bit different and has a sensitive side. He knows when he’s done wrong and he’s a good pal.

Meeting this year’s intake of students at Hollyoaks College feels very real. Though I know I am meeting actors, most of whom are playing characters years younger than they are, walking into the set of the university halls takes me back to my student days. It isn’t only the surroundings; the bond between the group of actors has a distinctly student-like vibe. They have all moved to a new place to start something new, the token student banter is rife and they swap tasting notes from the new edition of Irn Bru as if it were a 1989 Chateauneuf Du Pape. Now comfortably settled into Hollyaoks, the new recruits reflect on their version of a university experience.

How did you prepare for the roles of students?

Tom: I’ve known people who have been at uni and visited friends in halls, seeing people putting jam on a digestive for the first time, I thought it was genius. You see people and get an idea of what it’s like to be a student.

Tamarin: Our characters are a good cross section of students though mine is a bit more far-fetched because she’s trying to be an adult not just a student.

How have you settled in to Hollyoaks?

Tom: Great, very well, everyone is so nice and friendly.

Holly: I was worried, thinking these beautiful people would be bitchy but there isn’t one person I don’t get on with.

Tom: We’re part of the family now. You get absorbed very quickly. You get thrown into work straight away. It’s a very quick process.

Scott: It’s easy because everyone’s so nice and we had James to show us the ropes. Everyone’s pretty sound and it’s easy to ask questions because everyone’s so willing to help. The older characters seemed to take me under their wing. Nick (Pickard, who plays Holloaks veteran Tony) has been really nice to me. He brought me to football games and gave me a kit. It really made me feel comfortable.

David: Social stuff outside the show helps, we have such a laugh it doesn’t really feel like work.

Were you fans of the show before you joined the cast?

Tom: I used to be a total addict when I was younger. I hadn’t seen it for a while before this but now it’s quite absorbing. There’s some really good stuff coming out, not what people would expect. Everyone loved the wedding and I think people are surprised by the quality now. The writers and producers are really listening to what people are saying and constantly adapting the show which is pushing the quality up and up.

We’ve got exciting stuff coming up around new year. We can’t say – don’t mention the war. All I can say it that we are all together and there will be a location shoot. It’s juicy and exciting with some new characters. Now stop.

How did your family react to seeing you on the show?

Holly (who flashed in a bar in her first episode): My brother watched it, he was like, hmm nice first episode. I think he saw a bit much but thought it was good stuff besides that.

Tamarin: My dad never watched a soap and now he has to he is loving it. He’s 72 and watching Hollyoaks first look – we’re definitely bringing in new audiences!

Scott: My sister and mum are heavily into it, the fact I’m on it is only a bit of a touch really – mum doesn’t have to see my ugly mug anymore.

My auntie rang my mum during one scene where I was on the phone to my mum in the show – she had a go at her for ringing me while I was working.

David: My mum starting clapping like the nutty professor. My brothers see stuff in my character that I bring to it and laugh about it because it’s just the stupid things I do around the house.

James:  For me it’s more my mates. My character is so different to me in real life so they find it hilarious.

Would you describe yourselves as typical students?

Tom: There are some aspects which are quite typical – we each bring something different and there’s a bit of edge to our characters.

Holly: Really nice group, everybody is a character, it’s nice to see them interact because they’re all so different.

Scott: We’re all from different spectrums – Barney’s very posh, Scott is working class, there’s even someone who lives in a caravan. It’s a nice mixture.

Check out more from Hollyoaks at E4.com

Interviewer Elizabeth Horsfall  Images Lucy Sharratt

FASHION, MUSIC, SHOPPING, CULTURE, HOSPITALITY… WHAT MORE COULD ONE WANT FROM LOVELY BELFAST. A CITY SO SMALL BUT VIBRANT, IT WILL SIMPLY TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY! 

A weekend getaway to Belfast was on the cards. Flying from London Stanstead on Bmibaby. The journey to and fro was 55 minutes. Landing at Belfast City Airport was quick and efficient. The service on board Bmibaby was very good, the seats are spacious and the leg room is wide which is enough room for your handbag.

Fitzwilliam is a 5 star hotel located in the heart of Belfast, a unique gem of contemporary living. The hotel’s chic relaxed style is reflected in it’s service policy which is friendly and efficient, yet discreet and unobtrusive. As I entered, I was greeted by the Concierge team, check in was very easy, grabbed the key and off I went. As soon as I entered my room, I was amazed, it took my breath away. The room was quite airy with a personal sanctuary feel to it with relaxation in mind. Wonderfully comfortable beds draped in crisp white Egyptian linen, power showers and relaxing baths, designer toiletries to ensure you have a sublime stay. Bathroom is enticed with a large mirror, a walk in shower and a nice comfortable bathtub. The dresser is equipped with the essentials, I was greeted by a nice bottle of wine and dark chocolates. If you like spacious fashionable surroundings then the Fitzwilliam is definitely for you.

Later that evening pre dinner drinks and canapes were on the cards at the bar. Champagne, French Raspberry Martinis, Kiwi Bellini’s and Canapes were on the table before I could say a word. Each had an exquisite taste and the bar staff were great. Dinner was planned at Menu Restaurant, menu overseen by Michelin Star-Restauranteur Kevin Thornton. The décor was high class, as soon as I stepped out of the elevator I knew I had entered fine dining. The menu looked mouth watering, the staff were very attentive, it was a joy to sit where they took note of everything you wanted. For starters I opted for Roast Garlic and Fennel Veloute which was a soup, very rich and creamy with basil pesto swimming on top, to follow I opted for Raviolo of Mozzarella, Ragout of Roma Tomatoes, Confit Fennel and Roast Red Capsicum, the presentation was a delight, a work of art, I almost didn’t want to ruin the presentation. But as I was so hungry I dived in, and the flavours exploded in my mouth, a warm abundance of the red capsicum, the fennel almost aniseed like complimented the mozzarella well. Water was flowing and the wine too, never short of a dry mouth. The dessert menu was so vast, I decided to go for the most colourful fruity option of Pineapple Carpaccio Passion Fruit Sorbet and Coconut Ice cream, it was like sunshine on a plate, wow!

After dinner I headed out to The Crown Liquor Saloon, a traditional irish pub, the décor inside was superficial. I was told the ceilings are black due to the smokers, they tried cleaning it and it looked so horrible underneath that they decided to leave it as it was. The floor was laid in mosaic tiles, vigorous wood carvings throughout, ornate mirrors, wooden columns with Corinthian capitals and feathered motifs in gold. Painted and etched glass is everywhere you look. The long red granite topped bar is divided by columns and faced with coloured tiles.

Saturday was about strictly shopping and more food. I received a nice goodie bag of Matilda and Archer Travel products. I headed off to Una Rodden Couture on Upper Arthur Street, the dresses, jewellery were all so gorgeous. Headwear and Jewellery by bridal designer Catherine B were simply mystical, a bride-to be would be so lucky to have a custom handmade one off piece by Catherine. Also featured in the shop is Grainne Maher Millinery – bespoke headwear from a range of couture hats, fascinators, tiaras and corsages.

I love chocolate so when I went to Co Couture I was in absolute heaven. I tried four different kinds of chocolates, from solid dark coco to the finest smooth french beans. I was easily stimulated, the aromas were hitting the back of my throat. If you love all things chocolate from drinking to cooking to eating, and want that something extra special, Co Couture is the place to go, you won’t be left disappointed.

Once I had a little taste of Co Couture I headed off to St Georges Food, Craft and Antique Market in the Town Centre. As I walked in, my nose caught the quiff air of fish, and that smell literally makes me sick, so I had to hold my nose. Walked around and came across different stalls of food, sweets, drinks, jewellery, clothes etc. The stall that took my fancy was the Sweet Trees and the Glass Bottle Stall. A nice cultural shock to see a jazz band playing beautiful mellow tones and people sitting, eating with friends and family, a nice community coming together.

Any girl loves jewellery and the weird and wonderful things in life, Stray is for you, like it is definitely for me too. Stray is a cute quirky shop offering hand-crafted jewellery, owned by Julie Stray. Stray has a range of costume jewellery, fun gifts for quirky kids, sweet stuff for your home, weird ‘n’ wonderful stationery, and those pieces that will make you stand out from the crowd, because no body likes a sheep. It’s definitely a stand out from the usual boring high street shops.

I went inside Victoria Square Shopping Centre and went straight to the top of the dome, if you are scared of heights this isn’t for you, but I must say the 360 degree panoramic views are amazing, took the elevator right to the top floor and once I descended out I saw what was truly stunning.

Situated in the town centre on Arthur Street was Avoca – a family run company that spans one of the world’s oldest surviving manufacturers and Ireland’s most exciting stores and cafes. The shop was beautifully decorated, felt as though I belong there as I walked in. Went upstairs to the cafe for lunch. The setting and atmosphere was calm yet lively, just the kind of atmosphere one needs after walking around the shops, a good place to put your feet up and chill. With wooden tables and seating areas, on the table was a jug of water with fresh mint inside, refreshing after a long morning. The lunch menu looked appetising, spoilt for choice as always. I opted for the Salt and Pepper Calamari with Lemon & Basil Mayonnaise and Sweet Chilli Dip, it was very yummy, presented on a wooden board, with a bit of green salad. After lining my stomach I wondered off to have a look around on the ground floor, I came across some porcelain china teapots, it reminded me of when I was a  little girl, my grandmother would pour tea out of one every morning. Avoca looks to create colour, fun and style to seek out the interesting and the beautiful.

Next on the hotlist was Lizzie Agnew in the Fountain Centre on College Street. Lizzie makes fabulous vintage and antique style dresses and gowns from the most glamourous eras of the 1930s and the 1950s. Her studio was of a large size, her sewing machine so old school took me back to the days where my grandmother had one. I got to see the wonderful wedding, bridesmaid dresses and the beautiful veils and corsages. One of the most anticipated dress still under construction is the ‘Titanic Dress’, truly astonishing, cant wait to see the completed piece. Her showroom is every girl’s fantasy, gorgeous silk gowns and soft fabrics.

I was looking forward to visiting Lisburn Road, it is one of the finest shopping districts in the UK, currently nominated for Best Fashion Street by Google Maps. With over 100 businesses catering for every taste, it has never been more diverse, exciting and appealing. As I went down the stairs of Bedeck I came across Jacob street, which is owned by stylist Maureen Collins. The boutique offers original and quirky alternatives to the high street. The boutique features an array of hand-picked designer jewellery, home accessories, ornate furniture, and desirable vintage clothing. Maureen has incredible taste, the boutique was wonderfully set out, I found the bird cages and head fascinators lovely, its affordable glamour. Definitely one of my favourite vintage boutiques.

Last stop was Innocent Chaos created by local textile artist Sharon Hay. Innocent Chaos is a fashion and jewellery range that speaks of a world almost forgotten in adulthood. It’s a collection of bespoke jewellery designed to add a sense of playfulness and excitement to every outfit. Although it was a small studio, it had some of her best work, like the custom designed shoes, bridal brooches and vintage bouquets made out of buttons.

After a tiring day, dinner was at Love and Death located on the high street. The interior was simple, I did like the hanging bicycle from the ceiling, I started the night off with a Strawberry Daiquiri, the food menu was simple yet mouth watering. My eyes went straight to the Goats Cheese in Beetroot with Honey Glazed Walnuts and for mains the Fancy Fish and Chips. Presentation of both dishes were phenomenal, the goats cheese looked ravishing, and the fancy fish and chips on a wooden board, chips presented in a little cup like you get when your on the beach. The Goats cheese in Beetroot was very tasty, the flavours created an explosion, not too sweet or bitter, just cleansed my palette well before having the fish and chips. I would highly recommend both dishes, they weren’t too filling so had room for dessert. For dessert I opted for the Apple Tart with Peanut Butter Ice Cream and White Chocolate Parfait. My taste-buds were in overdrive. The staff were a delight, the food went down well and the drinks were flowing. Love and death is the kind of place that appeals to foodies, clubbers, live music lovers and cocktail drinkers.

My last day in Belfast, I wasn’t looking forward to going back to London. I was very excited about the Spa appointment at the Merchant Hotel. I needed to relax and unwind after two long days. As I arrived I was taken down the spirally wooden steps, unwinding to the basement where it was dark and airy. Sat down on the big white comfy chair to do a quick consult. As I dipped into the hydrotherapy pool the bubbles and the force came gushing towards me, it felt wonderful and I felt relaxed and calm, the stress was released and I went into zen mode. Next on my list was the sauna, as I love heat, it was perfect for me to just sit and relax and not think about anything. It was an incredible experience, the only downfall was the hotbeds weren’t hot enough. I was called for my 25 minute back massage by Carol, my masseuse, she was friendly and attentive to my needs, Carol used a chamomile and lavender herbal oil to de-stress and take out the knots on my upper back area. She applied medium pressure which I was very happy with. It felt as though a pile of bricks had been lifted off my shoulders and I could feel normal again. It was one of the best massages and spa experiences I’ve had.

After detoxing I was rather thirsty and hungry, so headed off to Berts Bar for a Jazz Brunch. Berts Bar is situated inside the Merchant Hotel and it encapsulates sleek elegance of the art-deco era, complimented by the very best in live jazz. It has a timeless setting transporting you back to the chic intimate jazz setting of 1930s New York. A French bistro style menu was presented to me, had a whizz through and chose the Portavogie Prawn Tagliatelle with chilli pistou, courgette, toasted pine nuts and garlic bread. It was the best option for me as it was light, fresh and gentle. The service was also exemplary.

It was a brilliant weekend in Belfast, highly recommended to anyone wanting a city break. The people are very friendly, and everything is literally at your doorstep. MTV EMA’s will be held at the Odyssey Arena on 6^th November 2011. I would recommend visiting in April 2012 as the centenary of Titanic’s maiden voyage sees the opening of the the state-of-the-art six storey Titanic Belfast visitor attraction, built at the head of the slipways from which Titanic was built and launched.

INFORMATION

Low cost airline, bmibaby, offers daily flights to Belfast City Airport (just minutes from the city centre) from East Midlands Airport and Birmingham Airport and a frequent service from London Stanstead. Recently voted Best Low Cost Airline by the readers of Conde Nast Traveller, fares start from just £14.99 one way including taxes. For further information or to book a flight visit: www.bmibaby.com

I stayed at the Fitzwilliam Hotel on Great Victoria Street in the heart of Belfast City Centre. The designer hotel has a host of packages including Autumn offers from £120 per double room per night, breakfast and a 2-course evening meal: www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com

For more information on what to see and do in Belfast, visit: www.gotobelfast.com

Katrina Doran Editor of Sugahfix.com

Sugahfix.com is Northern Ireland’s No.1 online guide to fashion, beauty, entertainment and style for fashion-conscious females. Winner of Best Blog at NISMA’s, Sugahfix.com is the go-to website to fill up your social calendar and get inspired with ideas on what to wear. Visitors to Belfast should check out Sugahfix.com’s Style section to get an insight into the style of Belfast fashionistas. The VIP Directory is a must to plan your shopping trips for all the best boutiques, indulgent spas, top salons and the sweetest treats, as well as current discounts and special offers. Log onto www.sugahfix.com

Words Priya Kerai

FASHIONISTAS AND FANS OF THE TV SHOW BRITAIN & IRELAND’S NEXT TOP MODEL GATHERED AT THE EXCEL HOUSE TO CELEBRATE FASHION, BEAUTY AND GLAMOUR.

The event offered the latest beauty treatments (manicures, pedicures, massage, professional make up, laser teeth whitening, fake tan, hair removal treatments, boob jobs, hair extensions…), fashion trends, workshops and the chance to get spotted by top model agencies.

Joey Bevan, the official fashion designer of BINTM, presented his latest collection, “Land of the Lost Toys”, inspired by Tim Burton fantasy’s world and Lady Gaga.

TOWIE’s star Lauren Goodger presented her hair extension range and also, Amy Childs launched her brand new womenswear collection.

All of the girls from series seven made their catwalk debut at the BINTM live tour, where they modelled different outfits from designers such as Jayne Pierson, Alice Vandy, Elle Mcpherson, Austin Reed and Firetrap. The band Luminites and the Swedish singer Bluey Robinson entertained the audience with their dazzling performances.

Truly girly and fun, the event was the perfect excuse to get pampered, do shopping and taste the BINTM lifestyle!

www.bntmlive.com

 Words and images Verónica Carpio Martín

GLENDA BAILEY IS ARGUABLY ONE OF THE MOST PROMINENT WOMEN IN FASHION. SINCE BEING MADE EDITOR- IN -CHIEF OF HARPER’S BAZAAR SHE HAS TRANSFORMED THE MAGAZINE. IN CELEBRATION OF HER TEN YEARS AT THE MAGAZINE, SHE HAS TEAMED UP WITH CREATIVE DIRECTOR STEPHEN GAN TO PRODUCE A COLLECTION OF THE MOST STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHS TITLED ‘HARPER’S BAZAAR: GREATEST HITS’. JENNIFER BUTLER SPOKE TO GLENDA BAILEY ABOUT HER NEW BOOK.

Why did you decide to release a collection of photographs featured in Harper’s Bazaar and why did it seem like the right time now?

I wanted to celebrate the work of all the fantastic photographers, stylists and writers that I have been privileged to work with at Bazaar over the last 10 years. When Stephen Gan and I started at Bazaar a decade ago, we wanted to create a joyful tribute to the world’s best fashion, talent and artistry each month.

How did you choose the pictures that went in to this book? Are they personal favourites?

As I edited the book last summer, I was struck by how many remarkable images I had to choose from. I have so many favourites, but in particular; Jean Paul Goude’s fantastical portraits of Naomi Campbell, William Klein’s portfolio of designers and their team (Lanvin’s Alber Elbaz brought a bus full of people), Peter Lindbergh’s cover of Kate Winslet hovering over the Manhattan skyline, Demi Moore and the giraffe, Marc Jacobs and Winona Ryder recreating ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf’ and sending the Simpsons to Paris (Marc Jacobs even got a tattoo of his Simpsonized self on his arm)

Why did you decide to realise a book of pictures rather than features of interviews?

We included a feature or interview from each decade in this book, but we had a lot of brilliant work to choose from, which leaves another opportunity for the next book!

What do you look for in a photograph to make it onto the pages of Harper’s Bazaar?

It must be iconic and epic.

What photographer have you been most proud to work with? Did you have any lifelong dreams?

Richard Avedon – I got to meet him on the first day on the job at Harper’s Bazaar, and it’s been a highlight of my career.

Harper’s Bazaar: Greatest hits is published by Abrams and Chronicle and available now at Amazon.

Words Jennifer Butler  Images Harper’s Bazaar

AGENT2 FEATURED THE FANTASTIC DEBUT COLLECTION AND INTERVIEW FROM RAUN LAROSE LAST SEASON AND WE BRING YOU HIS LATEST COLLECTION FOR S/S 2012

This Brooklyn based, young and upcoming designer is destined to be a big name and has been on the AGENT2 ‘One to Watch’ radar for quite some time now. His latest collection sees an exciting progression since we last saw him and Raun states:

“For this collection I was inspired by my childhood.  I retraced the steps of my youth in search of things that were the most memorable.  Backpacks, comic books, and thoughtful pairing in sport attire.  As a menswear designer I strive to expand the concept of contemporary mens fashion through innovation. To challenge myself and explore new techniques, giving fruition to one of my key looks.”

To add to the buzz around Larose, Vogue Italia recently named as ‘fashion’s future’ in their menswear category.

Words Graham Gartside Bernier

AS MANY OF OUR AVID READERS ARE PROBABLY AWARE, WE ARE MASSIVE FANS OF PUNK HERE AT AGENT2 AND THE FANTASTIC COLLABORATION BETWEEN LONG CLOTHING AND BOY LONDON IS NO EXCEPTION!

We just had to bring you these amazing images from a series of shots by London photographer Teddy Fitzhugh that were taken to celebrate the Long x Boy collaboration earlier this year.

The collection focuses around a group of friends whose lives embody a distinct attitude and spirit found in both brands. The photos intend to provide a reflection, not only of their relationships with each other, but also of the distinct connection between the clothing and their lifestyles.

Check out the rest of the series here.

leavetheboyalone.com | longclothing.com

AT THE BEGINNING OF LAST YEAR, A YOUNG SPANISH PRODUCER CAUGHT OUR ATTENTION HERE AT AGENT2. AFTER HEARING A DEEPLY HYPNOTIC TRACK CALLED ‘IN ANOTHER ROOM’, RELEASED ON BARCELONA-BASED HIVERN DISCS, WE INSTANTLY WANTED TO HEAR MORE. SO, WE DID AND WE WERE HOOKED. A YOUNG MAN BY THE NAME MIGUEL BARROS AKA PIONAL SOON BECAME ONE OF OUR FAVOURITE EMERGING ARTISTS.

We scraped around and managed to find a few of his old tracks online, but over the past 12 months new releases and remixes have been springing up left, right and centre. One track that stood out in particular was the epic ‘We have Been Waiting For You’, which cropped up in clubs and DJ mixes the world over.

Pional has worked closely with the likes of Jon Talabot and Gavin Russom and it looks like the world is starting to pay attention to his unique sound. And so they should. His latest release comes courtesy of German label ‘Permanent Vacation’ where he joined forces with Hunee, Slow Hands, Session Victim and several other great artists to produce the critically acclaimed ‘If This Is House I Want My Money Back 2’ compilation. It is virtually impossible to pigeonhole Pional’s style, so we won’t do him an injustice by trying.

We caught up with the man himself to find out more.

You have several releases under your belt now. How did you get started with producing your own tracks?

It all started two years ago when I met the people from Hivern Discs. Actually, I’ve been making music for 10 years now, but I never took it that seriously. It wasn’t professional, just a hobby.

Looking through your back catalogue, it’s extremely difficult to put a genre to the sound. How would you describe your music and where does it all come from?

I tend to like making clear sounds. I often make the music that influences me and the music that I listen to, but at the same time I like the fact that my music sounds different to everything else. I don’t usually think about the clubs when I make my music. I think that the perfect mixture is a blend between home and dance floor.

I could describe my music as ‘slow-house’? ‘Electronic/alternative/pop-house’? (Laughs)

I have many influences; I have no prejudices about it. Right now you can catch me listening to Katy B’s new album and yesterday I was listening to St. Vincent. So, my influences could be kind of…freaky?

Do you give any time to DJing or do you spend all of your time in the studio?

My first ever live show last month in Copehagen, so I guess you could say that I spend most of my time in the studio! I’m not a DJ. Most days, when I get home I’ll normally spend around six hours making music.

You mentioned the live show. How did it work and did it go down well with the crowd?

Yes, I had a great time. There were no problems and I was very comfortable technically with the equipment that I took. I had great feedback from people; they really liked it (or so I think).

Do you look to anyone for inspiration for your live show? Who do you enjoy to watch perform live?

No, I don’t look to anyone for inspiration when it comes to my live act. Honestly, the acts that I generally see just have a laptop, a midi controller and nothing else. I would prefer to see interesting shows.

Right now, I don’t know who I’d like to see. I guess, like many others, I’d like to see a James Holden live act.

Yourself and Jon Talabot seem to be flying the flag for Spanish electronic music at the moment. Why do you think your music is so well received abroad?

Yeah, it’s cool! I guess it is well received thanks to the internet and word of mouth. Hivern has managed to achieve something that very few Spanish labels have in the past; people are talking about them, and that’s very cool.

‘We Have Been Waiting For You’ took everyone by surprise and got a lot of people talking about Pional. What’s the story behind that track? 

Well, I made that track four months before I sent it to the Hivern boys. The track originally had a very poppy drum kit and it didn’t have a 4/4 bass, clips or anything like that. It was basically a pop tune that lasted 3 minutes. The lyrics are taken from the TV show ‘Lost’. In fact, the title is the last sentence spoken by John Locke.

Have you got any new releases in the pipeline? An album perhaps?

I just finished several remixes, so right now I want to focus on preparing new material. For 2012 I plan to work on the album; I’m looking forward to it!

We’re guessing that your diary is will be filling up pretty quickly as the word begins to spread about your music. Have you got any more shows planned?

(Laughs) The truth is, that I have several interesting shows coming up around Europe (TBA).

Will you be making an appearance in the UK?

Not that I know of, but hopefully soon.

And finally…If you could banish one song to hell for all eternity, what would it be?

Black Eyed Peas – The Time (Dirty Bit)

Interview Dan Howell

CANNES THE SOUTH OF FRANCES MOST CELEBRATED PLAYGROUND CAN BE REPRESENTED IN ONE WORD: INDULGENCE. ONCE THE SUMMER SUN STARTS TO HEAT ITS MEDITERRANEAN BEACHES, MEGA-YACHTS PACK INTO THE HARBOR, LUXURY ITALIAN CARS PROWL LA CROISETTE – THE CITY’S CLOSEST STREET TO THE BEACH. RICH INDUSTRIALISTS DISPENSE TENS OF THOUSANDS OF POUNDS ON BUBBLY IN A-LIST NIGHTCLUBS AND EVEN MORE IN DESIGNER BOUTIQUES THAT ARE IN ABUNDANCE AROUND THE TOWN CENTRE. RECENT YEARS HAVE SEEN NEW TYPES OF PAMPERING EXPLODE — NOT ALL OF THEM RESERVED FOR THE SEVEN-FIGURE SET — THANKS TO NEW HOTELS, PARTY SPOTS AND RESTAURANTS.

Whatever your income bracket, there’s a place to play in.

In May, Actors and film directors come here for the glory via flashes, on the red. If La Croisette, designer boutiques and its Palais des Festivals have given Cannes the international glory. The city, if you scratch the hollywoodian relatively new polish, hasn’t forgotten its humble past and its warm traditions. You need to visit the region when the 4500 journalists, 300 television networks, 200 press agents and 150 radio stations are away, before or after the festival and gets its real French character. In Cannes, the center of tourist activity is in fact the mythical boulevard de la Croisette that extends towards the East End from the new Palais des Festivals along the Rade de Cannes, with its fine beach. Luxury boutiques and pretty buildings dating from the Belle Époque period dominate that boulevard.

Le Suquet area

Climb up and around through the narrow cobbled streets, towards the hill, topped by a medieval castle (now Musée de la Castre). That 15-20 minute effort will be rewarded by the astonishing views of the famous city’s west end, the port, the Croisette and Palais des Festivals and even the mysterious Lérins islands.

WHAT TO SEE

Musée de la Castre and Sainte-Anne Chapel

The museum houses a remarkable variety of antiques –collected by the Baron Lycklama who left them to the city in 1877. You can discover the superb selection of antique music instruments from around the world and some great landscapes depicting 19^th century Riviera before its Americanization. After that visit, I suggest you climb up the 109 stairs that leads you to the tower’s top terrace where you will get the perfect and unforgettable views of the city.

Marche Forville

The famous market is at the bottom of Le Suquet, so that could be where you are heading next, after the breathtaking views from the top of the hill. The market was first open in 1870 (although it has been refurbished in the 1930’s, explaining its Art Deco feel) and is called “Le Ventre de Cannes” or “Cannes’s Belly” is open the mornings, up until the early afternoon. The glamour and the glitz from La Croisette is nowhere to be seen here, where a typically French showcase of tasty things, with no frill takes place. You will encounter la joie de vivre at its best and the produce that comes with it, without Prada and co. No Ferraris here but some darn good cheeses and tasty olives!

Lérins Islands

Saint-Honorat Island and Sainte-Marguerite Island offers a monastery where the monks sell their own wine with a worldwide’ reputation of quality. Saint-Cézaire in white and Saint-Sauveur in red are now on the best tables in France (40 to 50 Euros a bottle). To protect the monastery, a fortress was built in the medieval times and now houses the Musée de la Mer and Fort Royal. Originally built as a castle, turned into a citadel and finally a State Prison where the enigmatic Iron Mask , the supposedly twin brother of Louis XIV was jailed. Ferry excursions takes 15 min for Saint-Honorat Island and 30 min for Sainte-Marguerite Island and no motors are tolerated there, only pedestrians.

abbayedelerins.com

WHERE TO EAT

Fouquet’s restaurant

Try the upscale brasserie tradition with a Mediterranean touch.

La Petite Maison

Offers French and Japanese cuisine à la carte.

24 -  Suquet

Try the fine and creative food with a cosy atmosphere.

WHERE TO STAY

Majestic Barriere Hotel

A great French Riviera’s gem, in addition with the refined décors and the hi-tech equipment, this five stars hotel offers an excellent deluxe service and has a dream location on La Croisette. After its stupendous extension, the Majestic Barrière now offers 44 new apartments, two penthouses, which joins the 305 existing rooms and suites (that were revamping 2 years ago). This hotel is a member of  ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’.

Lucien Barrière and Christian Dior have a long-standing relationship and are both devoted to luxury and French elegance. Majestic Barrière values the grand couturier all the more given that every year during the Cannes Film Festival Christian Dior always books one of the best suites in the hotel. In the dining room paved with stone and Hungary parquet, the rotunda cleverly recalls the ceiling of the famous Dior boutique on Avenue Montaigne in Paris and the huge Louis 16th table is surrounded by the legendary grey and silver medallion chairs. The cushions on the sofa in the lounge bear the same historical folded pattern as the Dior emblem and are of the same shade of bright red (Rouge Eclatant) created by Christian Dior himself in 1947. The bedrooms are a tribute to the boutique rooms on Avenue Montaigne with the same shades of grey, Pullman armchairs, cane-work bed-heads and a perfect copy of the original Monsieur Dior’s desk.

majestic-barriere.com

MOUGINS

Escape to the country, only 15 minutes away from Cannes, in the town Picasso choose to call home for the last 15 years of his life. This superb medieval village is a gem set amongst the paradisiacal mountains, cypress, pines and olive trees. The village is surrounded by a lush forest covering nearly 430 hectares and was successful in preserving the quality of its environment intact. Because of its dream location, the tranquility or its links with the art and cultural world, many celebrities have chosen to establish themselves here in Mougins (Fernand Léger, Man Ray, Jacques Brel, Christian Dior, Jean Cocteau and Catherine Deneuve all have properties in the communauté)

WHAT TO DO

Visit the old town and fountains, St-Jacques-Le-Majeur church, St-Barthélemy Chapel, as well as the very worthwhile Photography Museum. You can stroll across the small narrow streets to discover the many galleries and art studios. International Festival of Gastronomy – Les Étoiles de Mougins – A key event in French and foreign gastronomy, the festival gathers the finest chefs each year in September.

lesetoilesdemougins.com

WHERE TO STAY

Royal Mougins Golf Resort

Outstanding geographical situation as well as its perfect integration into the natural setting, this recent 4 stars deluxe hotel is unique with its 29 suites with huge private terraces with stunning views of the enchanting surroundings. This is the paradise on earth.

royalmougins.fr

NICE

If Cannes has a cute fishermen village vibe, Nice has an incredible city energy, only few miles away.  Nice is cheerful and bustling, dynamic and passionate. I was absolutely taken by its beauty and made my mind on which city in Côte d’Azur was my favorite… by a mile!

Start your visit of Nice with Place Massena that was built in the 1840’s with pretty arcaded buildings painted in Pompeian red that reminded me how close Italy was from there. Three years ago, the Spanish artist Jaume Plensa installed his 7 statues –that looks like modern, slim and young buddhas- all facing the Place. That installation is titled ‘Conversation in Nice’ and represents the 7 continents. You will be pleasantly surprised to know that Nice has kept its dialect called the Nissard. This language is very much alive and because of the dynamism of cultural association, the dialect – part of the Occitan linguistic family – is being taught to the younger generation. Nissard’s vocabulary is essentially drawn from Latin, spoken by the Roman colonists who built the city of Cemenelum. All streets names and touristic signs are including the dialect. Walk towards the famous Promenade des Anglais. The seaside road is always crowded but never dirty, always kept immaculate and follows the harmonious curvy Baie des Anges. Originally, the footpath was no more that 6 feet wide and was widened by Englishman, Lewis Way with his own pocket money, in 1820 – the path was then nicknamed ‘Chemin des Anglais’. From La Promenade, go towards the hill, called Castle Hill, that is what’s left from the site of the first town founded by the Greeks, then the first medieval town. Only a fragment of wall was kept as well as few foundations but the unique views from the top terrace a enough to stop moaning about what’s left from the Greeks. When you go back down that hill, you will end up in the heart of the Old Nice. Old Nice contains about 600 shops. Many boutiques offer local specialities and typical gifts. Narrow streets and baroque churches will mesmerize your spirits and fill your eyes with unspoiled beauty and probably make you walk slower!  Stop at the very picturesque Flower Market at Cours Selaya and have a little snack by trying the Nicois speciality; the Socca. The flat cake made from chickpea flour and olive oil, baked on a huge cast iron pan, will filled your empty stomach and you will be delighted, ready to carry on your extended walk through the city. Here are few of the must-see sights:

THINGS TO SEE

Matisse Museum

A 17^th century villa houses the personal collection of the painter who lived in Nice from 1917 until his death, in 1954. It offers a great panorama on his career, covering all periods – including his very first painting made in 1890, the gouache cut-outs as well as hundreds of drawings and prints.

musée-matisse-nice.org

Museum of Archeology and Nice-Cemenelum

Cemenelum was declared capital of Alpes Maritimae, an ancient Roman Province, in 14 BC by the Emperor Augustus. The ruins that can be visited include the great amphitheatre that could seat about 5000, baths, some paved streets (3^rd century AD) and a Palaeo-Christian complex (5^th century AD). The visit of these ruins were definitely the highlight of my whole trip! The museum was open in 1989 and displays a great collection of ceramics, glass, jewellery, coins, sculptures and tools from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages.

Musée-archéologique-nice.org

Cours Saleya Flower Market

Go early and smell the local soaps and colourful flowers. Every morning from 6, except Mondays.

Tête Carrée

Designed by the sculptor Sacha Sosno, the ‘Square Head’ is the key symbol of the city’s contemporary achitecture with its 30 metres high and 14 metres wide, this impressive monument is open to the public.

bmvr-nice.com

WHERE TO EAT

L’Aphrodite

Be prepared to discover the French version of Heston Blumenthal’s experimentations with the use of liquid nitrogen in the newly awarded Michelin red guide star David Faure’ cuisine. restaurant-aphrodite.com

L’Oliviera

Sample all different types of olive oils with regional cuisine. The friendly restaurateur will give you advice on how to flatter your dish with the perfect wine combination.

Le Patio

Chef Pascal Gorris’s use of local fresh produce works magically well and makes you believe in the superiority of French’s culinary talents.

hôtel-la-pérouse.com/en/bar-restaurant/

WHERE TO STAY

Boscolo Exedra Nice

This stylish, quirky and white hotel (inside and out) has everything to offer for the best stay in the city, including the location and trendiness. 10 min walk from the seafront and railway station.

boscolohotels.com

HOW TO GET AROUND

Vélo Bleu (Bicycle rental)

One thousand bicycles are provided for self-service rental in Nice. First 30 min of use is free but rental cannot exceed 24 hours.

vélobleu.org

Segway

Personal Transporter is the environmentally friendly way to be seeing the city without any effort. The Segway offers fun and a modern and unique experience.

bice.mobilboard.com

HOW TO GET THERE

Cheap flights to Nice from Liverpool John Lennon Airport and London Gatwick

easyjet.com

All the info you need on France and the Cote d’Azur:

franceguide.com / www.frenchriviera-tourism.com

Words and images Vincent Bernier

First out on the catwalk, Central St Martin’s graduate Alice Lee had knitwear cleverly laced with leather and fabric to produce an almost chainmail effect, used to most striking effect in circular headpieces. It was this lacing which produced the effects in the pieces rather than patterns or seams; from empire lines on dresses to stripes on sweaters. Jewellery including bangles and collars were produced with the same method and the result was a collection that managed to be unusual and innovative as well as wearable.

Phoebe English’s collection was composed of a series of deconstructed pieces with trailing threads, ripped away hems and dip dyed fabrics. A nod to 90s grunge was present in the monochrome palette and clumpy flat shoes combined with the hair; either slicked back completely or hanging long and straight over one side of the face. The boxy cuts and plain colours seemed simple at first, but they served to show off the incredible hand detailing in the fabrics; tiny pleats in shift dresses and feathery edges which looked like swan down on the white pieces.  For me this English was the standout of the whole show, grunge elements having always been a weakness of mine.

The only one of the four not a graduate from Central St Martin’s, Malene Oddershede Bach also stood out from the rest of the show for her use of vibrant colours; reds, blues, yellows and pinks all featured as the binding glue of a collection comprising of many different styles. There were unicolour shirt and suit combinations, mini dresses over chiffon maxi skirts, billowing shoulder and embellished tops, each look paired with perfectly matching heels for an ultra coordinated approach. It seems that yellow is to be the colour of s/s12 and Bach used it to maximum effect in a vivid leather biker jacket with double zip detailing.

Taking a more avant garde approach was Shao Yen, another graduate of Central St Martins. A spin on the traditional little black dress saw a piece composed entirely of loose knit fringing in a rigid yarn which stood away from the body in dramatic spikes.  There was more than a little of a bondage element in the collection, with leather straps containing the body and asymmetric tailoring exposing thighs and breasts along with transparent fabrics and platform heels. The collection wasn’t the most easily accessible of the four but it certainly demonstrated an unusual and interesting style.

All very different but very talented designers, Ones to Watch certainly lived up to its name and I eagerly await the next season’s offerings from all four showcased.

Words Tamsin Worrad 

AS PART OF THE COLLABORATION BETWEEN GLAM MEDIA AND RIMMEL LONDON FOR LONDON FASHION WEEK, THEY CREATED THE ULTIMATE ATTENDEE’S SURVIVAL KIT. AGENT2 WERE LUCKY ENOUGH TO GET THEIR HANDS ON A PACK AND GAVE THE PRODUCTS A TRAIL RUN.

These new lipsticks, available in 7 shades, were created for Rimmel by long time brand ambassador Kate Moss. I got the darkest purple shade which looks amazing in a goth inspired way, perfect for a/w 11.

The eyeshadow quad consists of 4 shades for blending and contouring and I’m impressed with their staying power. Definitely a must when make up is sliding off your face under the hot show lights.

Tired eyes have a tendency to set in after a few days of hectic running from show to show and this Extra Wow Lash mascara is great for making you look more awake than you really feel!

The new Match Perfection Cream Gel foundation covered up my tired eyes perfectly and stayed on even on the busiest, hottest tube journey between shows.

The top product in the whole kit, for me, was the Fix & Perfect Pro Primer. It brightens and livens up a tired complexion and ensures that foundation glides on smoothly and lasts longer. I got lots of compliments on my skin whilst wearing this one!

All in all, a great selection of products that kept me looking fresh even when feeling I was about to drop. Thanks to Glam Media and Rimmel for letting us try them out!

Words Tamsin Worrad

 

THE MUSIC ACCOMPANYING MALAYSIAN DESIGNER BERNARD CHANDRAN’S SS12 SHOW WAS A MIX OF CLASSIC DOO-WOP AND MODERN HIP HOP WHICH SLOTTED IN PERFECTLY WITH THE THEME OF THE COLLECTION, INFLUENCED AS IT WAS BY THE GLAMOUR OF THE 1950S BUT WITH A CONTEMPORARY EDGE.

Instead of directly using the shapes and styles of the decade, Chandran instead took inspiration from the effort and creativity that went into the fashions of the times. Everything screamed high octane glamour, with luxe metallics and thick fringing featuring heavily throughout. Mimicking 1950s cat eye glasses, the models wore bright blue eyeliner which worked to eye popping effect on dark skin. The era influence become more evident as the show went on, when classic prom dress silhouettes appeared with detailed ace cut out sections it was a floor length black satin dress with thigh high side split which to me represented the ultimate in elegant evening wear. Black lace gloves toughened up the ladylike looks along with bright pops of colour to modernise the vintage theme and the overall impression of the collection was one of nodding to the past whilst continuing to look to the future.

Words Tamsin Worrad  Images Christopher Dadey

THE UK FESTIVAL SCENE MAY SEEM AN OVERLY CROWDED MARKET BUT APPLE CART, HELD IN EAST LONDON ON 7TH AUGUST, PROVED THAT THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR ONE MORE. APPLE CART TOOK PLACE THE DAY AFTER THE MORE ESTABLISHED FIELD DAY, RUN BY THE SAME TEAM AND IN THE SAME PLACE BUT THE ATMOSPHERE COULDN’T HAVE BEEN MORE DIFFERENT. THE CROWDS OF YOUNG EAST LONDONERS WITH INTIMIDATINGLY FASHIONABLE HAIRCUTS WERE REPLACED BY FAMILIES WITH PUSHCHAIRS AND GROUPS OF FRIENDS WITH PICNICS. SOMEWHERE BETWEEN A VILLAGE FETE AND LATITUDE, THE DAY AIMED TO PLEASE BOTH ADULTS AND KIDS ALIKE WITH AN ALMOST OVERWHELMING AMOUNT OF ENTERTAINMENT ON OFFER.

As it happens, it turned out that adults and children aren’t so very different in their tastes. Considerably more grown-ups than infants were taking part in the traditional fair games although they were a little too energetic for me to be entirely comfortable with on a Sunday. Similarly, although children made up the primary audience of the prestigious Magic Circle run tent there were plenty of adults (myself included) hanging round self-consciously at the back in a desperate attempt not to be asked to take part.

A little less child friendly was the comedy tent; in a brilliant scene stealing moment an outraged toddler heckled Mark Steel for swearing too much. Boasting a stellar line-up that made it one of the most popular areas of the festival, the tent was consistently overcrowded throughout the day. I was already familiar with Marcus Brigstocke’s brand of brilliant satire but Doc Brown’s mix of rap culture and subjects such as David Attenborough was a hugely pleasant surprise. The chance to see Kevin Eldon in stand up mode had clearly got a lot of people excited and although the crowds moved in to try and get as many of the festival goers out of the rain as possible those of us stuck outside to get wet didn’t really mind at all. Jon Richardson, in typically self deprecating mode pointed out that you’d have to be really terrible to have people leave the tent and brave the pouring rain outside but he needn’t have worried; I suspect the tent would have been just as full during his set if it had been blazing sunshine.  As his career continues to gather momentum at a startling rate the chance to see him in such an intimate venue was not to be missed. The main comedy draw for most, however, was Tim Minchin who played the main stage having clearly gotten too big for the (perhaps too) tiny comedy tent. He played with all his usual charisma and wit, although the very mixed audience meant that his unique brand of musical comedy seemed to miss the mark with several punters.

Earlier on in the day the always flamboyant Patrick Wolf took to the same stage shrouded in a hooded cloak which he threw off to reveal one of his trademark iconic outfits; a stunning red three piece suit to match his vibrant hair and bags of stage presence. In a touchingly earnest moment he dedicated the song ‘Black is the Colour’ to his friend the late Amy Winehouse, whom he toured with back in 2007. Later on in the afternoon a summery set from the The Magic Numbers cheered the rain drenched crowds and fitted the atmosphere of the day perfectly, as did the gorgeous electronic pop of Saint Ettiene who closed the festival as darkness set in across the park and Monday morning became more of a reality. The folk stage, curated by scene stalwarts SWN, Communion and Fence was hidden away in a peaceful corner of the site, with sofas to recline in whilst enjoying the lush sounds of such artists as Peggy Sue, Cate Le Bon and Michele Stodart (of The Magic Numbers).

As if the offerings of music, magic, comedy and games weren’t enough there was also the chance to design your own book cover with Penguin, buy some canned feeling of unease over at Monster Supplies from the Ministry of Stories, take in some culture with the Art Car Boot Sale and enjoy a seemingly endless variety of food on offer from Venn Street Market that made me a little disappointed it wasn’t possible to try it all. The Cabaret tent provided actual tables and chairs in a very civilised move for a festival but it was popular enough to ensure it was difficult not to end up standing, especially for singer, pianist and all round entertainer Chilly Gonzales and DJ sets from the likes of Andrew Weatherall and Kevin Rowland.

It’s a testament to the success of the day that even the torrential downpouring of rain couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the festival goers; running to the trees for shelter with a group of strangers actually added a sort of odd charm. If anything, unpredictable shifts in weather couldn’t have been more appropriate for such a typically British festival as Apple Cart turned out to be, in the best possible way.

www.theapplecartfestival.com

Words Tamsin Worrad

 

HAVING GONE TO SEE BELLE SAUVAGE’S SHOW IN FEBRUARY 2011, I DECIDED IT WAS TIME TO WORK BACKSTAGE AND GET SEE HOW THEIR CATWALK SHOW WAS RUN. AS WELL AS GETTING A FIRST GLIMPSE OF THEIR SPRING/ SUMMER COLLECTION.

After a few footwear malfunctions and stress surrounding how to get the clothing over the large hats the lovely models were wearing, the show was off without a glitch.

As usual their beautiful silhouettes ad flowing dresses prove that they are a glamorous label to suit every body shape.

Pink, blue and yellow printed dresses graced the catwalk, with a red leather number to add a different dimension to the strong prints.

Japanese inspired floral net dresses floated down the catwalk. The highlight was undoubtedly the tight blue abstract dress with pale blue chiffon and killer splits up the side. With a cut out low back, the dress was desired by all the ladies backstage and in the audience.

Padded shoulders gave an Amazonian look on the models, giving a classic Belle Sauvage futuristic feel. The line was girly, fun and beyond beautiful.

Words Jennifer Butler  Images Rob Sheppard 

  

I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A HUGE FAN OF KTZ. AND BEING GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO GO BACKSTAGE WAS A DREAM. THEN YOU REALISE THE EXTENT OF THE DETAIL AND LAYERING THAT GOES IN TO SUCH AN INTRICATE COLLECTION.

The men had a much detail as the women, with South American designed techni-coloured stitching and beaded belts, bags and anything in between. Oversized grey denim and logo covered jackets were a favourite amongst the male models. All with complicated belts and buckles which went over shoulders and around legs.

The women looked powerful yet stunning in beautiful beaded dresses, some of the most stunning I have seen throughout Fashion Week. See through black, gold and sequined kaftans with leather and studded underwear were the highlight of the collection.

There was also an assortment of pretty bow covered cocktail dresses in purples and pinks. Beaded hats, earrings and bracelets complimented the bright colours. This collection was not for wall flowers. Everything that went onto the catwalk felt incredibly fresh and exciting.

Words Jennifer Butler  Images KTZ

 

THE HOUSE OF EVOLUTION SHOW DID NOT GET OFF TO A GOOD START, LEAVING US ATTENDEES TRAPPED IN THE ENTRANCE OF FREEMASON’S HALL FOR NEARLY AN HOUR WHILE WE WAITED TO BE LED TO OUR SEATS. AS ONE OF THE LAST SHOWS OF THE DAY, LEAVING JOURNALISTS STANDING IN THEIR HEELS TO GET ANGRY SEEMED LIKE A BAD WAY TO KICK OFF AND BY THE TIME WE WERE ALLOWED IN I’D WITNESSED MORE THAN ONE ALTERCATION WITH THE CREW.

House of Evolution is a collective consisting of three designers, and first to show their collection was DAS, two sisters (Reem and Hind Beljafla) who based their designs around the traditional Arab over-garment, the Abaya, with inspiration coming from the Ancient Roman and Greek empires. This translated into floatingl, loose fitting dresses and tunics in pale blues and pinks seemingly taking their cues from the Togas of Ancient Greece. Other looks included  more structured skirts and shirts with armour like wristlets and loose tunics over panelled leggings. Intricately beaded mosaic style patterns featured on the sleeves of dresses, on skirts and forming the front pieces of boxy cut tops as well as belts wrapping the looser fitting pieces together.

Math featured next and the first look captured, to my mind, the ideal form of relaxed springtime chic. A slouchy t-shirt tucked into a light pink chiffon midi skirt created a look that was effortlessly stylish and dreamlike. The rest of the collection successfully lived up to this promise with more slouchy jersey, vibrant blues and oranges and although the overall look was one of simplicity there was enough in the cuts and shapes to keep it interesting and new. This may come as no surprise as the label’s designer Shaz comes from a graphic design background rather than fashion and cites architecture as a major influence.

Finally came Rohmir, who I had high hopes for upon discovering their influences consisted of 20s and 30s French chic and ‘La Garconne’ (tomboy). Unfortunately it failed to quite meet my expectations and instead seemed to have been entirely inspired by exotic birds, completely with a slightly grating tropical soundtrack. Although I loved the shirt dresses featuring a cape back detail and waist tie (at least the tomboy influence was present somewhere)  I found my attention predominately grabbed by the huge pairs of fake eyelashes sported by each model to match her outfit but mostly served to detract the audience’s gaze from the clothing.

The whole show was longer than the average and combined with the waiting time that preceded the show, there was definitely an element of annoyance amongst the crowd with many feeling disappointed by the collections. Unfortunately I must admit to feeling the same way, with only Math really staying in my mind as I left the venue.

Words Tamsin Worrad  Images Christopher Dadey

CENTRAL ST MARTIN’S IS RENOWNED FOR PRODUCING THE SOME OF THE BEST AND MOST INNOVATIVE DESIGNERS. ONE OF THE DARLINGS OF THE FASHION SCHOOL IS CHRISTOPHER SHANNON WHO SHOWCASED HIS SPRING/ SUMMER 2012 MENSWEAR COLLECTION AT LONDON FASHION WEEK.

The first thing to stick out as the intrinsically placed comb sculptures, placed on the models thinly shaved hair. Proving it is the Brits who have an eye for the original look, the combs were apparently glued to the models heads. A nice touch I thought, but I have always enjoyed seeing something different on the catwalk.

Tassel details on asymmetric jumpers gave a twist to the usual men’s knitwear designs and looked modern and stylish. Waterproofs with drawstrings added a sporty feel to the classic menswear collection.

Cubist patterns in black, orange, greys and blues were printed on t-shirts and hard wearing street wear coats.  The combs will probably remain to be the talking point though.

Words Jennifer Butler 

  

THE FANTASY WORLD OF FAIRIES AND NYMPHS, THE VICTORIAN PAINTING MOVEMENT AND ASIAN EMBROIDERY WERE THE MAIN INSPIRATIONS IN THIS TRULY STUNNING COLLECTION, “A FAIRY DANCE”.

Spanish designer Elisa Palomino has created captivating, nostalgic and spectacular outfits, reinventing the bobbin, a traditional textile technique of Madrid’s Enlightenment period which involves rolling thread around long reels with handles called bolillos to weave an intricate pattern. This technique is reflected in the Manila shawl, an outfit still worn in Madrid’s fiestas.

Flowers were the protagonist at the Elisa Palomino show. The catwalk opened with black Victorian shapes complemented with striking floral headpieces.

The second part offered red evening gowns with Chinese tea houses headpieces, light blue organza shades and long see-trough dresses with fishnet sleeves and animal prints of birds and butterflies.

Traditional silk embroidery patterns have been mixed with modern techniques such as laser-cutting, appliqué and intarsia to add a luxurious, innovative and cutting-edge touch to the collection.

The result was extraordinary pieces that paid tribute to the Spanish and Chinese cultures, exuding pure elegance, glamour and decadence, in what certainly deserves to be considered one of the best collections of 2011.

Elisa has worked for Moschino, Roberto Cavalli and Christian Dior Haute Couture. During 8 years she was head of studio for John Galliano and most recently Vice President of design for Diane von Furstenberg.

She launched her own collection last year during New York Fashion Week, which was bought entirely by Dolce & Gabbana for the opening of the concept store SPIGA 2.

Words Veronica Carpio  Images Blow PR

  

COLLEGE DAYS, FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION, CREATIVITY AND INDIVIDUALITY WERE THE MAIN INFLUENCES IN JAMES SMALL’S SPRING/SUMMER 2012 MENSWEAR COLLECTION.

A colourful palette of bold colours such as blue, dark purple and green was mixed with floral prints creating sleek and romantic outfits for a man who wants to feel elegant and unique.

Silk shirts and velvet jackets combined with shorts were the key pieces in this outstanding collection.

James Small has collaborated with Vauxhall Motors to create the fashion film ‘Wash’, starring Jaime Winstone.

Supermodel Kate Moss got all the attention as she sat at the front row with her husband Jamie Hince. Sadie Frost, Jaime Winstone and Meg Matthews also attended and complimented James’ designs. Later on, they all went to party to the central London hotel Corinthia to celebrate the end of London Fashion Week.

Words Veronica Carpio  Images Dan Harley

  

Wearing clothes seemingly designed for dance, the models pirrouted down the catwalk en pointe to show off the draping skirts whilst shoulders were shimmied to demonstrate the movement of huge feathered pieces. Male models lifted female into the air to best show off the floor length fringing and the whole atmosphere was one of drama and theatrics, befitting an avant garde collection (not to mention Pierson’s background in peformance).

The colour palette was in a springlike range of muted peaches, golds and greys with hair was piled in softened beehives, leaving the lines of the dancers body uncovered. As with many collections this season, fringing played a major part in the drama from full length skirts to back detail on jumpsuits. ‘Mobius Strip’ was a real lesson in collaboration with all elements fitting together perfectly, the strength of the collection evident with it remained in the mind because of the theatrics and not despite them.

Words Tamsin Worrad

INSPIRED BY THE DARK NATURE OF CUBO-FUTURISM AND THE SCULPTURAL VISION OF RAYMOND DUCHAMP-VILLON, GEORGIA HARDINGE’ COLLECTION, CUBED, IS CUTTING-EDGE AND FUTURISTIC.

Structured silhouettes are combined with geometrical prints and cubes, pentagons and triangular shapes creating a contemporary, abstract and ambiguous feel.

Grey was the predominant colour, which mixed with flashes of orange, white and black, and sheer fabrics added depth and scale to the collection.

Flowing long dresses, straight trousers and ‘box-shape’ mini skirts were the key pieces in this contemporary and sleek collection for a woman who wants to feel strong and modern but also feminine.

Georgia has collaborated with Victoria’s secret, been sponsored by Swarovski and has received extensive support from press and buyers world wide.

Words Veronica Carpio  Images Dan Harley

TROUBLED HEROINE GIRLS WITH AN EDGE, ICY AS A HITCHCOCK ACTRESS AND COMPLEX AS THE MODERN EDIE SEDGWICK, HAVE BEEN THE MAIN INSPIRATION FOR JOANNE HYNES’ COLLECTION ‘PLASTISCOPE’.

Influenced by the intensity of the 60s and 70s, the colour palette is a chaotic mix of metallic tones such as gold and silver and block colours: orange, green and blue.

Loose tops and dresses combined with striking oversized animal pendants and foile leather appliqué jackets where the main highlights in a collection that breathes disco nights, hedonism and bohemian spirit.

Words Veronica Carpio  Images Dan Harley 

AGENT2 MAGAZINE BRINGS YOU ALL THE BEST SHOWS STREAMED LIVE FROM LONDON FASHION. TAKE YOUR FRONT ROW SEAT FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME.

See more catwalk reports from LFW here.

AFTER HIS DEBUT ON LONDON FASHION WEEK IN FEBRUARY, ZIAD GHANEM HAS COME BACK TO FREEMASON’S HALL WITH ANOTHER EXTRAORDINARY SHOW THAT IS AS THEATRICAL, ARTISTIC, EMOTIONAL AND SEXUALLY-CHARGED AS YOU CAN GET.

The Polish film Matka Joanna od aniolow (Mother Joan of the Angels) has been his main inspiration for his spring/summer ready to wear collection.

Ziad has created more than just a fashion show, but a visually stunning extravaganza, where the models don’t just wear the clothes, but use Ziad’s designs to express themselves in a very creative and exuberant way.

A bride and a groom with extreme red eye shadow opened the catwalk. The colour palette was mainly black, white and red, except for a few multicoloured splashes in the last pieces, where the models looked like abstract paintings.

Structured silhouettes were on display in a collection where the key outfits were transparent long evening gowns complemented with latex gloves and tulle veils, and striking corsets that enhanced the natural curves of a woman, creating a very erotic and sensual look.

Fine materials such as silk organza and Italian vintage fabrics added a touch of texture, luxury and opulence.

While most of designers use the standard skinny and tall models, Ziad Ghanem breaks all the boundaries introducing models from different backgrounds, shapes and ages, making a definite statement that fashion isn’t just for the good-looking or thin but for everyone who is passionate about it.

Fine artist Pandemonia Panacea is a huge fan of Ziad’s designs and was in the front row supporting his show.

Transsexuals, men dressed up as women, artists (Mr Pustra and Marnie Scarlet) and even Ziad’s little niece made an appearance in a fashion show that was effortlessly provocative, dramatic and unique.

www.ziadghanem.co.uk

Words Veronica Carpio  Images Dan Harley

IT WAS ALL ABOUT LUXURY AND GLITZ AT JASPER GARVIDA’S FASHION SHOW FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2012, WHICH WAS PRESENTED AT THE BLOOMSBURY HOTEL.

Women are Garvida’s main inspiration and for this collection, he has chosen Diana Vreland as his muse, due to her sense of style and passion for the daring and the exotic. His other main influence has been the rhythm found in Frantisek Kupka’s painting ‘Autour d’un Point’, from where the collection took its name.

Strong silhouettes in metallic colours such as gold and silver, combined with black and white, give the collection a crisp and elegant touch.

Garvida has mixed soft fabrics and circular shapes with strong materials such as sequins and abstracted feathers, and animal prints to create a futuristic and ‘electro-tribal’ feel.

Spectacular evening gowns with strong metallic hardware and short dresses with oversized pockets and striking zips were the key pieces in this sophisticated and glamorous collection.

Garvida’s designs are very popular among celebrities and fashionistas. TV presenter Hofit Golan and singer Katie Melua were in attendance.

Words Veronica Carpio  Images Dan Harley