March 2013

Spring Arrived!has

2 welcome

Spring is here - well nearly! As I write this I hear whispers of another cold snap and possible snow! I really want to ditch the Winter woollens and get my Spring/Summer wardrobe in full swing and with Belfast Fashionweek just around the corner what better time to embrace all the new season trends.

While she’ll be embracing new season style, fashion blogger Laurina Kennedy, won’t be spending any money on clothes until January 2014! We caught up with her to talk about the success of her blog and how her fashion fast is going so far.

We also chat to Sarah Travers in our regular Up Close & Personal feature as she embarks on her new presenting job on UTV’s The Magazine which starts at the end of this month.

There’s all of our regular fashion, beauty, interior and lifestyle and social pages. So, have a fab Paddy’s Day and relaxing Easter break and we’ll be back in April with more of the same for you to enjoy.

Until next time,

MagsMargaret ConnollyEditor

WelcomeOn the Cover:Photography by Khara Pringle,

Ulster Life Magazine180 Gortgole RoadPortglenoneCo. AntrimBT44 8AP

T: +44 777 2002 777E: info@myulsterlife.co.ukwww.myulsterlife.co.uk

Publisher: Barry O’DohertyEditor: Mags Connolly

Feature Contributors:Eve BrannonClaire Wilson Kate WilsonRachael Kelly

All rights reserved. For editorial requests, please contact the editor. All views expressed in Ulster Life, weather that of a contributor, interviewee or advertiser do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Ulster Life (www.myulsterlife.co.uk) or the publisher personally. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of articles within Ulster Life and www.myulsterlife.co.uk we the publishers cannot be held responsible for the use of the information it publishes. If you would like any copies of pictures or articles within Ulster Life or www.myulsterlife.co.uk please contact us directly. If we discover our work being used by a third party without permission, legal action may be taken if not resolved within 5 working days to our satisfaction. In some cases we will require royalty fees if use is for commercial purpose. The use of www.myulsterlife.co.uk is restricted to general interest purposes only. The user accepts a charge of £9,950 if it is proven they are using the site To solicit our clients for advertising purposes.

3contents

COnTEnTs

4 ThInGs TO sEE & DO

12 InTERvIEW:LAURInA KEnnEDy

17 FAshIOn

35 FEATURE: BLOGGInG

45 BEAUTy

57 InTERIORs

68 MOTORInG: sUPER CARs

70 TRAvEL

75 FOOD

78 FILM REvIEW

79 PEOPLE & PARTIEs

88 UP CLOsE & PERsOnAL: sARAh TRAvERs

Pg20Oriental Opulence

4 things of interest

MonochroMe Magic!Models Finola guinnane, Zara Shaw and Jo Kirkwood pictured at the launch of West coast cooler FaShionWeeK in the latest spring/summer fashions from castle court, Warehouse and ruedi Maguire at the Ulster Museum.

It’s now Into Its fIfteenth season, this season’s West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK is taking place from 21st-24th March across various venues in Belfast with the key catwalk shows moving to the Ulster Museum in Botanic Gardens. Cathy Martin, director of FASHIONWEEK said: “After fifteen seasons and nine years, FASHIONWEEK has become a much celebrated and anticipated event among people of Northern Ireland. It provides local retailers and designers the opportunity to showcase their designs and talents and very much

Get Ready for FASHIONWEEK

supports and encourages local businesses. We fully support the ‘Back in Belfast’ (#backinbelfast) campaign after a disastrous last quarter for many in fashion retail, so this is a wonderful opportunity for retailers to get involved and entice the customers back in to the city and in to the shops. Once again, we will be showcasing all the key collections from the high street as well as the finest established and up-and-coming local designers from all over Northern Ireland to create an exciting first glance at all the latest trends.”

Tickets for the main catwalk shows (£20) are available from the Belfast Welcome centre Box office on 028 9024 6609 or online via the links on www.belfastfashionweek.com For the latest information on West coast cooler FaShionWeeK log onto www.facebook.com/belfastfw and look out for updates.

6 things of interest

fIgurIng promInently in the EMMY Award-winning PBS Special “Music of Ireland”, McPEAKE are taking the world of Celtic music by storm with its own contemporary brand of self-penned songs and compositions. Since their initial tour of USA in 2009, McPEAKE are now on the main stages of the USA festival circuit, performing regularly to audiences in excess 10,000

St Patrick’s Night at the Lyric

people. The new generation of this legendary family has developed a distinctive sound that is totally immersed in the popular culture of today, while maintaining a firm anchor in the influences of past generations. McPEAKE were delighted to return home from a lengthy US tour to perform for their home audience at the BBC Proms in the Park at the magnificent Titanic Slipways in 2012. This

will be the first time in years that McPEAKE are able to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Belfast before commencing another international tour. McPEAKE’s unique blend of pop, country, folk, and Irish music attracts widely diverse audiences and fans consistently use superlatives such as fresh, authentic, original, and dazzling to describe the experience that is – McPEAKE! www.lyrictheatre.co.uk

RevolutionaryAnti-Ageing Treatment

NEWThe quest for younger looking, firmer, more radiant, line-free skin is a quest we have all undertaken and a road we gladly continue to travel.

The ancient Egyptians were the first to document their attempts to halt the ageing process, noting the effects of certain clays and minerals on the skin, in the hope of warding off wrinkles and remaining eter-nally youthful.

Thankfully science and technol-ogy have come a long way since then and incredible new advances mean that it is possible to not only halt the passage of time but dra-matically rejuvenate the skin, erase lines and wrinkles, eliminate pig-mentation and even encourage the production of new collagen to im-prove skin’s texture and tone; and in so doing, look years younger!

Enter iPixel, the new and revolu-tionary skin resurfacing treatment exclusively available at Therapie Clinics in Northern Ireland. This ground-breaking treatment means that it is now possible to literally turn back the hands of time and look between 10-15 years young-er, critically without having to go under the surgeon’s knife. The treatment is FDA-approved and is quite simply revolutionising the anti-ageing industry and changing how we will approach the ageing process, forever.

Whether you’ve lost that youth-ful glow and are noticing the emergence of the first few lines

and wrinkles or perhaps your skin has much deeper set wrinkles and a great deal of sun damage; no matter where you are in the ageing process, the beauty of this treatment is that it can be tai-lored to suit your individual needs and deliver a complete rejuvena-tion and transformation.

“The most effective and results-driven technology in the world”How does iPixel work?

Unlike topical creams, laser skin resurfacing works deep in the un-derlying tissues to fight those fine lines and wrinkles and the uneven skin tone that often accompanies growing older. The procedure gradually stimulates new cells to replace aged and photo-aged skin, delivering new, healthier, smoother tissue in place of old skin imperfec-tions.

This is the most advanced anti-ageing technology available, with leading dermatologists referring to it as “the most effective and results-driven technology in the world”.

Therapie Clinic has clinics na-tionwide including Belfast, L/Der-ry and Newry and offers free skin consultations. To contact Therapie Clinic phone 08000 121 565. www.therapieclinic.co.uk

Benefits of iPixel

Radically firms and smooths loose skin around the fore-head, mouth and jaw, under the eyes, upper lip, cheeks, chest and neck

Stimulates new collagen, im-proving texture and tone and erasing fine lines and wrinkles

Eliminates superficial pig-mented and vascular marks, evens out skin colour and re-duces tiny broken blood ves-sels

Delivers dramatically young-er-looking, smoother, rejuve-nated, line-free skin

8 things of interest

ChIna’s greatest circus will take to Belfast Waterfront’s stage on Sunday 14th April with their UK premiere “Yin Yang”, marking the beginning of a 12 date theatre tour across Ireland.

This unique extravaganza showcases only the best in entertainment; witness acrobats defying gravity as the ancient discipline “Icarian Games” returns to centre stage. An act rarely seen in circus arts, steeped in tradition, this remarkable display of human juggling where the human body becomes catapult and catcher in an elaborate, explosive and highly choreographed presentation of power, poise and agility.

The show features traditional Chinese acts with the amazing legendary “Bicycle Act” which will keep the audience on the edge of their seats as 12 artistes manoeuvre onto a single bicycle.

Suitable for an audience of all ages, with evocative sets, soaring musical score and extravagant new costumes this will entertain the entire family long after the final curtain falls! www.waterfront.co.uk

Chinese State Circus Returns to Belfast

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How does it work?COOLTEC exposes fat cells to controlled cooling which breaks down the fat and destroys it so that it can be naturally flushed away from the body.

A suction-like device draws in the tissue and cools the fat cells which shrink, break down and are removed by the body’s natural metabolic process. The fat cells are killed off permanently and cannot return in that area. The treatment is non-invasive with zero downtime.

The ResultsResults can be seen in as little as 15 days after treatment and the fat cell reduction continues for 3 months. Stubborn, fat depos-its in the targeted areas are re-duced by between 20% and 40% after just one treatment. Expect to lose inches from your desired

area, whether waist, love handles, tum, derriere, thighs, abdomen or back. COOLTEC is particularly effective at shaping and contour-ing the waist, giving a lean, toned, sexy curve to the body.

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10 things of interest

IKea Belfast are encouraging fashion followers to make room for their lives at home by taking the time to organise their wardrobes. With that in mind, the home furnishings retailer will be hosting a Swap for your Life event as part of West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK on Saturday 23rd March from 11am to 2pm in a stylishly designated area of the customer restaurant.

Hosting the event is model and Fashion PA, Laurina Kennedy

Time to Swap!

whose Fashion Fasting blog inspired the team at IKEA to join forces with the Spring/Summer FASHIONWEEK shows and create a fringe event where thrifty fashionistas can bring previously loved garments to swap for a whole new array of findings.

During the Swap for your Life party, guests can exchange like-for-like garments through a traffic light system, ensuring a fair trade. No money will be exchanged, and guests are invited

to swap to their hearts content completely free of charge!

Prior to the event, designated drop off points at IKEA Belfast and FASHIONWEEK HQ at 3rd Floor, 21 Talbot Street, Belfast will be available so clothes and their swappers can be registered and sorted appropriately. Every bag must be tagged with your full name and contact email.

For more information log on to www.belfastfashionweek.com; www.ikea.co.uk/belfast

12 interview

“I’ve wanted to start a fashion blog for a while. I love fashion and rather than bore my boyfriend with my fashion chat, I thought i could write it down in a blog instead. I did actually post on blog a few months prior to launching oneyearoffashionfasting, but it didn’t inspire me and I feel now that I have a blog with a purpose.”

“The idea came to me while driving home from Coleraine after Christmas with bags of clothes i received as presents and then more Topshop bags filled with pieces I had bought too. Looking at it all in the car I just thought that I had to stop buying, and so I set myself the challenge of not buying anything for the next 12 months and decided to blog about it.”

“I can’t actually buy anything new until January 2014. So far it’s been relatively painless because I had pieces from this season and it’s that time of year when bills from Christmas need paid, but I know over the next month or so that I will find it harder as the season shifts and I want to incorporate trend pieces into my wardrobe. I’m heading to Belfast FASHIONWEEK at the end of this month and I know I’d like a wear a bit of this season’s neon, so I may try and swap with my girlfriends or try a bit of DIY dying with an existing piece of my clothing.”

Talking of swapping and Belfast FASHIONWEEK, Laurina is hosting a fringe event as part of FASHIONWEEK for Ikea Belfast where thrifty fashionistas can bring previously

Fashion Fasting

twenty-four year old Blogger, Laurina Kennedy worKs as a fashIon pa and Is

surrounded By the latest fashIons all day long, But In the new year she Began her

fashIon fastIng Blog. so why dId someone who lIves and Breathes fashIon deCIde to put

herself under a fashIon Ban for 12 months?

By Margaret Connolly

13interview

Model and Fashion PA, Laurina Kennedy wears an eye-catching gown by NI designer Ruedi Maguire to promote the Swap for your Life event taking place at IKEA Belfast on March 23rd, as part of Belfast FASHIONWEEK.

14 interview

loved garments to swap for a whole new array of findings.

During the Swap for your Life party, guests can exchange like for like garments through a traffic light system, ensuring a fair trade. No money will be exchanged, and guests are invited to swap to their hearts content completely free of charge!

“I’m so excited to work with both IKEA and FASHIONWEEK to host this party. It was one of my first ideas when I started my adventure to host a fashion swap party, as it is a great way to fill your wardrobe full of new clothes without actually spending money! The idea has grown wings and formed the Swap for your Life party, which will include a ballot where guests can make a cash donation to be in with a chance to win a £100 Ruedi Maguire Studio voucher, which can be used towards a bespoke dress making experience with the NI designer of the moment. I’ve worn several of Ruedi’s designs in the past, including the amazing yellow gown throughout this campaign. Proceeds will go towards Diabetes UK in Northern Ireland, IKEA Belfast’s designated charity for 2013.”

Since starting the blog Laurina has been amazed at the attention it has received in such a short space of time. As well as gaining her recognition by brands like IKEA she has also won a couple of awards and has been asked to

speak at a blogging convention taking place in Holland.

“My blog is only a couple of months old, but already I’ve had 26,000 viewers from the UK and Ireland as well as Australia, Belgium, Dubai, Eygpt, Spain and Germany - so I know it’s not just my family and friends who are offering support! I have received Company magazine’s award for “Blogger of the Month” and have also been awarded “British Style Blogger of the Month” by the UK Bloggers Community. In May I’ve been asked to speak at a bloggers convention in Holland and this is al in the space of a couple of months. Thanks to my blog, I’m getting to experience and do things that I wouldn’t have believed possible before Christmas.”

So, when Laurina can actually spend money on clothes again, how will she reward herself after her 12 months of fashion fasting?

“I can’t wait to have a shopping spree in Zara when it’s over, but I won’t go mad. If anything my fashion fast and going forward is all about shopping smarter. I would like to think that at the end of all of this that I will have learnt so much about my own style and that I will buy a few key season pieces but that I won’t be back to continually buying clothes that I really don’t need - so make sure you follow my progress at oneyearoffashionfasting.blogspot.co.uk

Laurina recently the won The Outlet, Banbridge’s Most Stylish

award at the Open + Direct Miss Northern heat at Café Vaudeville. It goes to show

you don’t need to be wearing something brand new to impress.

SIMPLY THE BEST

Peter Mark creative duo Laura McMurray and Stephen Hannah are Northern Ireland regional winners of the coveted

L’Oreal Colour Trophy 2012!Laura is a stylist in our Portadown salon and Stephen is a trainer in

our Training and Recruitment Centre in Belfast.

17fashion

ThIs MOnTh FAshIOn FOR WOMEn, MEn AnD ChILDREn FOR ThE sPRInG/sUMMER...

TreatYourself

Printed Jumper, £239, Marc Cain, www.marc-cain.com

Authentic Wash Slim Leg Jean, £50, Rihanna for River Island, www.riverisland.com

Butterfly Motif Pump, £25, Dolcis at Menarys, www.menarys.com

Isra Stone Ring, £12, Accessorize, www.accessorize.com

Pink mini satchel, £25, M&S, www.marksandspencer.com

18 fashion

Straw Trilby, £12, Next, www.next.co.uk

Men’s Printed Shirt, £29.99, Zara, www.zara.com

Multi-Purpose Fashion Briefcase,

£49.99, Zara, www.zara.com

Chino, £30, River Island, www.riverisland.com

Man Heritage Jumper, £39.50, M&S, www.marksandspencer.com

Tip Top Shoe, £75, Dune for Men, www.dune.co.uk

19fashion

Striped Top from TU at Sainsbury’s, www.sainsburys.co.uk

Stripe Sunshine Top, £7, Next, www.next.co.uk

Stiff Peak Cap, £6, M&S, www.marksandspencer.com

Retro High-Top Sneaker, £17.99, Zara, www.zara.com

T-shirt from Baby K by Myleene Klass at Mothercare, www.mothercare.com

Baby Sugar Candy Spot Dress, £24-£26, Monsoon,

www.monsoon.co.uk

20 fashion

by Eve Brannon

Oriental OpulenceWith the Spring/Summer SeaSon comeS the promiSe of travel, and thiS SeaSon the faShion pack are heading eaSt.orienTal STyleS have been widely observed, such as exquisite fabrics in the form of kimono-style garments and traditional Japanese-garden floral prints. While the form and silhouette have been sympathetically interpreted through the use of structural fabric folds, wide-panelled, waisted obi belts and oversized, empowering armoured shoulders.

On the catwalks Prada embraced the intricacies of traditional Origami tailoring in the form of contemporary satin suits. Whilst Marni presented models clad in opulent colourful printed silks. Etro reinvented its signature paisley prints, morphing them into Japanese-esque swaths of colour and print, emblazoned onto kaftan dresses.

Aquilano Rimondi

21fashion

STyLIST TIPExperiment with rediscovered designs and decorative elements - flourishing Eastern flora, dragon prints, kimono

shapes and mandarin collars.

Marni Etro

Prada

22 fashion

Contemporary Cool the new mado et les autres collection is now available at

evelin Brandt Belfast. this cool, contemporary brand offers edgy, stylish pieces for your spring/summer wardrobe.

23fashion

24 fashion

Striped Tunic Dress £99.90

Dress shown here. Top with same detailing available £79.90

25fashion

Printed Tunic Dress £95.90

26 fashion

Shrug £59.90 & Dress £99.90 (available in beige)

27fashion

To see more of the collection call into Evelin Brandt, Lisburn Road, Belfast. T: (028) 9020 7020 facebook.com/evelinbrandtbelfast

28 fashion

DEsCRIBED By nET A PORTER As “ThE

nUMBER OnE ITEM On A COOL GIRL’s WIsh

LIsT” IT’s ThE WEDGE TRAInER! WITh A

sTROnG sPORTs LUxE TREnD ThIs sEAsOn,

ThEsE TRAInERs TICK ALL ThE BOxEs.

STEP UP

Miranda Kerr wears the fashionistas’ favourite Isabel Marant Wedge Trainer

Liberty Blue Wedge, £120, Carvela Kurt Geiger, www.kurtgeiger.com

Ash Bea Natural Platine Wedge, £185, www.ashfootwear.co.uk

Wedge Heel Blue Trainers, £75, La Redoute, www.laredoute.co.uk

Blue Wedge, £69.99, Zara, www.zara.co.uk

Wedge trainers, £15, Primark, www.primark.com

Wedge Trainers, £25, TU at Sainsbury’s, www.sainsburys.co.uk

29fashion

ADD EDGE TO yOUR CAsUAL sPRInG/sUMMER WARDROBE WITh A PAIR OF hIGh-TOP WEDGEs.

StyleSuggestion

Metal Eagle Backpack, £60, Rihanna for River Island, www.riverisland.com

Hand of Fatima Friendship Bracelet, £6, Accessorize, www.accessorize.com

Green Tiger Print Sweat Top, £32, Topshop, www.

topshop.com

White Crop Top, £8, Topshop, www.

topshop.com

Block Print Skinny Trouser, £42, Topshop, www.topshop.com

Black High-Top Wedge, £69.99, Zara, www.zara.com

30 advertorial

hOUsE OF FRAsER BELFAsT Is CELEBRATInG ITs FIFTh BIRThDAy ThIs

MOnTh. sO TO CELEBRATE WE’vE sELECTED sOME

PARTy LOOKs FROM ThEIR FAshIOn FLOOR

ThIs sPRInG/sUMMER...

PartyTime

Baroque Printed Shirt, £79 & Lily Print Pencil Skirt, £89, both Biba

Tequila Sunrise Deep V-Neck Jersey

Dress, £89, Biba

Metallic Box Clutch, £49, Untold

Peach Suede “Ruby” Clutch, £149, Biba

Resin Clutch, £115, Pied a Terre

Multi Printed Illusion Dress, £110, Pied a Terre

31advertorial

Blue Printed Peplum Dress, £130, Linea

Mustard Twist Detail Dress, £99, Mary Portas

White Embossed Clutch, £159, Biba

Blue Leopard “Jazz” Clutch, £89, Mary Portas

Lime Top, £35; Silver Palermo Clutch, £99; Multi Geo Print Skirt, £89, both Pied a Terre

32 fashion

One of the hottest celebrities, Rhianna, and the most talked about model, Cara Delevingne, head out after Rhianna’s London Fashion Week launch of her new

collection for River Island. Here are a few pieces to help you tap into their cool, urban style...

FashionablyFamous

Metal Eagle Cap, £25, Rihanna for River Island

Leather Varsity Jacket, £200, Rhianna for River Island

Indigo Zip Back Denim Short, £30, Rihanna for River Island

Painted Stripe Bra Top, £30, Rihanna

for River Island

Armagh Roadside Motors 3752 2912

Belfast Charles Hurst 9038 3444

Campsie Donnelly & Taggart 7181 3636

Coleraine Curtis Cars 7032 2777

Crossgar Bells 4483 3207

Enniskillen Donnelly Brothers 6632 4712

Lisburn Roadside Motors 9267 7412

Moneymore Roadside Motors 8674 8631

Newtownabbey Curtis Cars 9083 8500

Newtownards Regency Cars 9181 4581

Portadown Howard Abraham 3833 3344

NEW pEugEot 208 ACTIVELighter, more agile and designed to keep you connected to the road, the new Peugeot 208 is a car that lets your body drive. With the latest three-cylinder engine technology it delivers up to 65.7 miles per gallon. So call today, book a test drive and experience the award-winning Peugeot 208 for yourself.

NEw PEugEoT 208 ACTIVEFRoM £179^

PER MoNTH

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65.7 MPg. ECoNoMICAL wITH FuEL.gENERouS wITH EVERYTHINg ELSE.

The official fuel consumption in mpg (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the 208 range are: Urban 34.9 – 78.4 (8.1 – 3.6), Extra Urban 62.8 – 88.2 (4.5 – 3.2), Combined 48.7 – 83.0 (5.8 – 3.4) and CO2 135 – 87.Terms and conditions apply, ^Passport Personal Lease: A guarantee may be required. Written quotations available on request from Peugeot Financial Services, Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill, RH1 1QA. ^Passport Personal Lease contract examples. 208 Active 1.0 VTi 3dr initial rental £849, optional final rental of £4,640. 46 monthly rentals payable. Annual mileage 6000 miles. Excess mileage charges may apply. If you choose to pay off the optional final rental at the end of contract, you can keep the car but will not own it – you will pay an annual rental equivalent to one of your monthly rentals. However, car ownership is possible with Passport – ask us for details. *5,000 miles of free fuel is equivalent to £500 which the customer will receive in the form of a cheque and is only available when financed through Peu-geot Passport Lease and Peugeot Passport Finance. Fuel cost based on NI average for unleaded 95 Octane Petrol of 140.4p per litre, and Diesel of 144.4 per litre as per “www.petrolprices.com” on Wednesday 10th October 2012. This amount is based on official fuel consumption figures for a 208 Active 1.0 VTi 65.7 MPG (Combined) and 208 Active 1.4 HDi 70 FAP 74.3 MPG (Combined). Offers available on vehicles ordered and registered by 31st March 2013. Calls may be recorded for training purposes.

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35editorial

Lets be honest – what woman doesn’t love a fashion magazine – the eye-catching front covers, all the latest celebrity gossip, health and beauty tips, and of course - pages and pages of glorious fashion.

From no age, us ladies are naturally attracted to magazines – we start with Shout, progress to Mizz and eventually the likes of More, Glamour, Grazia, and of course Vogue, find their way into our handbags and onto our

bedside tables. The dawning of a new technological age means, much to my pleasure, that these magazines are even more accessible – you can download them straight to your smart phone, laptop or tablet, which is exactly how you are reading our latest, divine edition.

But if you can't wait for a fashion fix between the weekly or monthly editions of your favourite glossy (i.e. Ulster Life) than look no further than the numerous fashion blogs which are right at your finger tips.

The Blog is one of our new phenomenons – would be make up artists, journalists (like me!), photographers and fashionista's take to the humble internet to share their tips for Fashion, Health and Beauty.

There are hundreds of blogs out there just waiting to become your new fashion friend – and believe me, I've befriended a fair few – but if you don't have the time to trawl the internet, I've selected some of the best and brought them straight to you:

Candy GirLCandy Girl is the luscious online counterpart to the fabulous Hillsborough boutique – Candy Plum. As well as providing you with information about some of the best little buys from the boutique itself, Candy Girl keeps us updated with all the latest celebrity fashion. Much like the boutique itself, it is a colourful and classy fashion site featuring everything from UGG Australia to Vivienne Westwood – trust me the Candy Girl site, and in fact, Candy Plum boutique, are well worth a visit.

Blogabout townthis month Claire Wilson Looks at some of the best LoCaL bLoGs...

36 editorial

Mixed GeMsGem by name, gem by nature – this blog site is an absolute must-see, brought to us by Belfast based make up artist Rose Gallagher. The glossy site offers all the best make up, health and beauty tips – with regular fashion updates as well. Featuring products from the likes of Clinique, Urban Decay and L'Occitane but to name a few, this site is a must for the favourites bar of any woman's browser.

The YellowesT diaMondsThis sparkling lifestyle blog does exactly what it says on the tin – uncovers the best in lesser known style gems across Northern Ireland. The blog features

advice on fashion and beauty and a very honest blog from the blogger herself featuring all things from Beyonce’s Ah-mazing Superbowl performance to her personal challenge to lose 10lbs in six weeks – this blog is most certainly a diamond.

ThaT BelfasT GirlBrought to us by Gemma -Louise, this blog is a fabulous follow up to her previous “Champagne Lifestyle, Student Budget” blog. On the cusp of graduating from university, she has started a new blog to document her adventures as a graduate – bringing us all the fashion and beauty of her previous blog, this time with everything from theatre to music across our vibrant city.

“The dawning of a new Technological age means, much To my pleasure, ThaT These magazines are even more accessible – you can download Them sTraighT To your smarT phone, lapTop or TableT, which is exacTly how you are reading our laTesT, divine ediTion.”

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88 William Street, lurgantel: (028) 3832 1607.

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88 William Street, lurgantel: (028) 3832 1607.

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Perfect Day Perfect Night

Voted Best Bridal

retailer 2012

88 William Street, lurgantel: (028) 3832 1607.

WWW.perfectdayni.com

88 William Street, lurgantel: (028) 3832 1607.

WWW.perfectdayni.com

Find us on Facebook Find us on Facebook

Perfect Day Perfect Night

Voted Best Bridal

retailer 2012

40 boutique review

In BRIEF:Perfect Day in Lurgan are leading suppliers of high quality wedding dresses and bridal accessories. They have an extensive stock available including evening wear, flower girls, bridesmaid dresses, shoes and tiaras.

Why vIsIT:Perfect Day is a very well know and long established shop with over ten years experience of dealing with thousands of brides across the

Perfect Daycountry. Make your one-on-one appointment and benefit from an experienced consultation with their expert stylists.

FAshIOn CREDEnTIALs:Perfect Day have won Best Bridal Retailer in Northern Ireland four times.

LABELs TO shOP:They stock lots of stunning labels, but their most popular are Ronald Joyce, Mori Lee, Mikaella Bridal, Dessy and True Bride.

ExPECT TO PAy:Wedding dresses from £595-£1,895; bridesmaids from £165-£269 and Mother-of-the Bride/Groom from £299-£695.

shOP In sTORE:88 William Street, Lurgan, Co.Armagh, BT66 6JB T: 028 3832 1607

shOP OnLInE:www.perfectdayni.com

£25200ml just

www.bronze-leaf.comParaben, Alcohol and Gluten Free

Step out of the dark ages of self-tanning Gone are the days of streaky finishes and chemical tints. Bronze Leaf is a revolutionary self-tan experience, which you can only purchase in the very best professional salons. Formulated using some of the finest organic ingredients available, our entire collection is enriched with deep moisturisers and exotic botanical extracts to deliver a naturally bronzed glow and the silkiest, streak-free finish imaginable.

Find your nearest salon at bronze-leaf.com and join the Bronze Leaf revolution.

108534 Bronze Leaf - City Life Ad £.indd 1 17/01/2013 16:33

023 9229 5000 (UK) • 1890 946 661 (Ireland)

WWW.GOODSALONGUIDE.COM

Did you know that hairdressers in the UK and Ireland don’t need to be qualified to set up in hairdressing? This means that anybody, without any qualifications

or experience, could be let loose on your hair.

Good Salon Guide has the answer!

Every salon in the Guide is inspected by professionally trained assessors and scored against a set of strict

criteria, giving you confidence in your choice.

HAIRDRESSERS YOU CAN TRUST

GOOD SALON GUIDEThe best salons in the UK and Ireland

Hair: Sharon Malcolm of Sharon Malcolm Hairdressing, Newtownards. Make-up: James O’Reilly. Styling: Jared Green. Photography: John Rawson

5 ScissorSister,Camlough 028 3083 89935 Shape&Style,Newry 028 3086 89925 SharonMalcolmHairdressing,Newtownards 028 9181 90005 TheAtticHairStudio,Downpatrick 028 4483 95065 TheCutHair&BeautySalon,Camlough 028 3083 84215 TracyMegoran,Crossgar 028 4483 20564 UrbanRoots,Newry 028 3026 00665 VanityHairSalon,Newry 028 3026 01255 ZenithHairConsultants,Newcastle 028 4372 4130

COUNTYFERMANAGH5 EdenHairStudio,Enniskillen 028 6632 26725 HairByMaeve,Enniskillen 028 6632 72645 HairSquare,Derrylin 028 6774 27445 IdentityHairCompany,Irvinestown 028 6862 82025 PamellaRoseHairBoutique,Enniskillen 028 6632 00574 UniqueStyles,Enniskillen 028 6632 2162

COUNTYLONDONDERRY4 BelleChevelure,Desertmartin 028 7963 26115 BLEACHbyMichelleKelly,Londonderry 028 7136 34983 ChicHairStudio,Castledawson 028 7946 53555 HAIROSCOPE,Coleraine 028 7034 34454 RevolutionHair&Beauty,Londonderry 028 7137 15565 RomayaHairSanctuary,Coleraine 028 7032 99255 RunwayHairdressing&BrowBar,Maghera 028 7964 33994 SerenityHairSalon,Londonderry 028 7135 71255 Suede,Londonderry 028 7136 1123

COUNTYTYRONE5 AileenMallon@Sophistacut,Dungannon 028 8772 31005 ChicHair&Beauty,Omagh 028 8225 95055 DavidGrahamHairdressing,Dungannon 028 8772 31545 Eclipse,Dungannon 028 8772 90884 HairMattersUnisexHairSalon,Omagh 028 8224 53354 Linzi’sKutz,Cookstown 028 8676 77724 Louise’sHairSalon,Omagh 028 8225 11825 Marie’sHairInternational,Castlederg 028 8167 16104 PrestigeHair&BeautySalon,Dungannon 028 8772 76765 SolitairUnisexHairStudio,Plumbridge 028 8164 8159

GOODBEAUTYGUIDEB5BeautyatLogans,Ballymena,CountyAntrim 028 2763 8446B4CharcoalEssentialTherapy,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9061 1403B5 CocaBellaBeautyLounge,Richhill 028 3887 0750B5 DivineBeauty&HolisticTherapies,Comber 028 9187 1089B5 EscapeBeautyRetreat,Magherafelt,CountyLondonderry 028 7930 0322B5 Factor1Beauty,Nails&TanningSalon,Belfast,CountyDown 028 9081 5775B4GeminiBeautyStudio,Belfast 028 9030 9003B5 ORIGINSkincarecentre&DaySpa,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9079 8277B5 OrlaghMayeSalon,Lurgan,CountyArmagh 028 3834 4573B5PerfectImage,Dromore,CountyDown 028 9269 0173B4 PrestigeUnisexHair&BeautySalon,Dungannon,CountyTyrone 028 8772 7676B4PureBeauty,Enniskillen,CountyFermanagh 028 6638 7616B5 PurpleLashesBeauty,Newtownards,CountyDown 028 9122 8003B5 RoamerHolisticHealth/BeautyClinic,Belfast,CountyDown 028 9181 5777B5 RougeBeautyClinic,Dungannon,CountyTyrone 028 8778 9998B5 SilksNail&BeautySpa,Bangor,CountyDown 028 9147 2044B5 SlieveGullionSpringsSpa&BeautySchoolofMake-Up,Newry 028 3088 9525B5SolaceToning&Spa,Derry,CountyLondonderry 028 7964 2551B3 TheBeautyofAngels,Lurgan 028 3832 6699B4 TheBeautyStudio,Newry,CountyDown 028 4177 4099B5 TouchBeautySpa,Coleraine,CountyLondonderry 028 7035 6200B4 UrbanBeauty,Lurgan,CountyArmagh 07736 318549B5 VanityTanning&BeautySalon,Newry,CountyDown 028 3082 5864B5 VanityTanning&BeautySalon,Cloughoge,CountyDown 07883 852169B5 ZestBeautyClinic,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9062 6555

GOODBARBERSGUIDE AndrewJonathan’sHairdresser,Portadown,CountyArmagh 028 3835 0616 CharlesClarkeGentsHairdressing,Finaghy,CountyDown 028 9060 4065 CraniumGentsHair,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9066 6885 HairbyShelley,Bangor,CountyDown 07541 286022 HeadstormBarberShop,Newry,CountyDown 028 3025 7177 ManeGentsHair,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9066 6445

GOODTRAININGGUIDE BCWTraining,Ballycastle 028 2076 2902

GOODSALONGUIDECOUNTYANTRIM5 BellaireHair&Beauty,Belfast 028 9024 58775 CarvalhoHair&Beauty,Belfast 028 9751 12445 ChocolateHairCompany,Lisburn 028 9266 41595 ChrysalisHair,Glengormley 028 9084 09525 ColorsHairdressing,Belfast 028 9077 55555 ColourworksHairStudio,Ballybeen 028 9048 39335 ExclusiveHairCompany,Belfast 028 9062 46664 HairStudio101,Ballymoney 028 2723 81865 Haze@No10,Larne 028 2827 2106 5 HeadOfficeHairCompany,Carryduff 028 9081 5987 4 HeadStart,Belfast 028 9066 46545 JimWalkerHairStudio,Ballymena 028 2563 05105 JosephScottHairdressing,Belfast 028 9064 01234 KarmaHairDesign,Ballyclare 028 9335 28085 KeithKaneHairInternational,Belfast 028 9081 36225 KennethMichaelInternationalHair&Beauty,Belfast028 9045 57405 lamonhairstudio,Belfast 028 9044 95485 LynseyQuinnHairdressing,Belfast 028 9079 35974 MenagèHairSalon,Belfast 028 9066 97075 MichaelQuinnHairdressing,Belfast 028 9043 40035 OasisHairSalon,Ballymena 028 2565 00904 RemaHair&Beauty,Antrim 028 9442 90005 SculpturesHair&Beauty,Newtownabbey 028 9086 55764 SleekHairdressing,Antrim 028 9442 91695 StephenCairnsHairdressing,Ballymoney 028 2766 27165 Studio18Hair&Beauty,Lisburn 028 9266 78725 TheBoathouseHairSalon,Ballycastle 028 2076 83025 TheFinalCut,Belfast 028 9045 92665 TheHairRoom,Belfast 028 9080 70775 TheHairRoom,Newtownabbey 028 9084 29605 theSittingroomhairdressing,Ballymena 028 2564 00015 Three’sCompany,Ballymena 028 2564 57505 ÜberHair,Belfast 028 9066 97745 UrbanHair,Belfast 028 9038 29155 UrbanHairBoutique,Lisburn 028 9260 11484 Urbanroots,Ballyhackamore 028 9065 8950

COUNTYARMAGH5 191HairDesigners&BeautyConsultants,Lurgan 028 3832 18084 Angelhair,Lurgan 028 3832 66995 ChocolateBlondeHairandBodyCouture,Markethill 028 3755 29925 CuttingIt,Armagh 028 3752 38584 HollywoodHair,Portadown 028 3839 19995 MGHairBoutique&MaleGrooming,Lurgan 028 3832 55435 Petra’sHouseofColour,Armagh 028 3751 13744 TheDiamondCutHairSalon,Aghagallon 028 9265 2326

DONEGAL5 B-Bobs,Letterkenny 07491265755 BernieRyan’sHairdressing,Letterkenny 07491271505 EdgeHairdressing&MakeUpArtists,Letterkenny 07491286274 ExclusiveHairDesign,Donegal 07493614155 HarkinHairdressing,Buncrana 07493225024 HeadworksUnisexSalon,Ramelton 07491525295 SerenityHair&BeautySalon,Gweedore 07495607005 TeresinaBarrettHairDesign,Ballyshannon 07198514904 TheLionsManeHairStudio,Ballyshannon 0719852693

COUNTYDOWN4 B’n’RHeadsUnisexHairdressers,Castlewellan 028 4377 84024 CaireenLangsfordHair,Holywood 028 9042 42014 Colleen’sHairSalon,Hilltown 028 4063 04344 EclipzeHairStudio,Dromore 028 9269 88195 GatsbyInternationalSalon,Bangor 028 9146 12445 GiftedTheSpiritofHair&Beauty,Newry 028 3084 98885 GigiHairGraduates,Downpatrick 028 4461 33935 HairFlair,Dundrum 028 4375 1009 5 HeadOffice,Ballynahinch 028 9756 1756 5 Jonathan’sHairSalon,Newtownards 028 9182 65065 LeeLyonsHairBoutique,Dromore 028 9269 39205 LisaWoodsHairSalon,Dundonald 028 9048 57075 PatrickMulhollandAvedaConcept,Holywood 028 9042 85115 PreciousHairDesign,Downpatrick 028 4461 44184 PublicImage,Dromore 028 9269 36345 RoelleHair&BeautyBoutique,Newry 028 3084 93734 SalonSix,Banbridge 028 4062 8501

The rating or code can be found against the salon name as follows:

R=RegisteredHairSalon3=3StarRatingHairSalon4=4StarRatingHairSalon5=5StarRatingHairSalonBR=RegisteredBeautySalonB3=3StarRatingBeautySalonB4=4StarRatingBeautySalonB5=5StarRatingBeautySalon

Find a qualified hairdresser near you!

023 9229 5000 (UK) • 1890 946 661 (Ireland)

WWW.GOODSALONGUIDE.COM

Did you know that hairdressers in the UK and Ireland don’t need to be qualified to set up in hairdressing? This means that anybody, without any qualifications

or experience, could be let loose on your hair.

Good Salon Guide has the answer!

Every salon in the Guide is inspected by professionally trained assessors and scored against a set of strict

criteria, giving you confidence in your choice.

HAIRDRESSERS YOU CAN TRUST

GOOD SALON GUIDEThe best salons in the UK and Ireland

Hair: Sharon Malcolm of Sharon Malcolm Hairdressing, Newtownards. Make-up: James O’Reilly. Styling: Jared Green. Photography: John Rawson

5 ScissorSister,Camlough 028 3083 89935 Shape&Style,Newry 028 3086 89925 SharonMalcolmHairdressing,Newtownards 028 9181 90005 TheAtticHairStudio,Downpatrick 028 4483 95065 TheCutHair&BeautySalon,Camlough 028 3083 84215 TracyMegoran,Crossgar 028 4483 20564 UrbanRoots,Newry 028 3026 00665 VanityHairSalon,Newry 028 3026 01255 ZenithHairConsultants,Newcastle 028 4372 4130

COUNTYFERMANAGH5 EdenHairStudio,Enniskillen 028 6632 26725 HairByMaeve,Enniskillen 028 6632 72645 HairSquare,Derrylin 028 6774 27445 IdentityHairCompany,Irvinestown 028 6862 82025 PamellaRoseHairBoutique,Enniskillen 028 6632 00574 UniqueStyles,Enniskillen 028 6632 2162

COUNTYLONDONDERRY4 BelleChevelure,Desertmartin 028 7963 26115 BLEACHbyMichelleKelly,Londonderry 028 7136 34983 ChicHairStudio,Castledawson 028 7946 53555 HAIROSCOPE,Coleraine 028 7034 34454 RevolutionHair&Beauty,Londonderry 028 7137 15565 RomayaHairSanctuary,Coleraine 028 7032 99255 RunwayHairdressing&BrowBar,Maghera 028 7964 33994 SerenityHairSalon,Londonderry 028 7135 71255 Suede,Londonderry 028 7136 1123

COUNTYTYRONE5 AileenMallon@Sophistacut,Dungannon 028 8772 31005 ChicHair&Beauty,Omagh 028 8225 95055 DavidGrahamHairdressing,Dungannon 028 8772 31545 Eclipse,Dungannon 028 8772 90884 HairMattersUnisexHairSalon,Omagh 028 8224 53354 Linzi’sKutz,Cookstown 028 8676 77724 Louise’sHairSalon,Omagh 028 8225 11825 Marie’sHairInternational,Castlederg 028 8167 16104 PrestigeHair&BeautySalon,Dungannon 028 8772 76765 SolitairUnisexHairStudio,Plumbridge 028 8164 8159

GOODBEAUTYGUIDEB5BeautyatLogans,Ballymena,CountyAntrim 028 2763 8446B4CharcoalEssentialTherapy,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9061 1403B5 CocaBellaBeautyLounge,Richhill 028 3887 0750B5 DivineBeauty&HolisticTherapies,Comber 028 9187 1089B5 EscapeBeautyRetreat,Magherafelt,CountyLondonderry 028 7930 0322B5 Factor1Beauty,Nails&TanningSalon,Belfast,CountyDown 028 9081 5775B4GeminiBeautyStudio,Belfast 028 9030 9003B5 ORIGINSkincarecentre&DaySpa,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9079 8277B5 OrlaghMayeSalon,Lurgan,CountyArmagh 028 3834 4573B5PerfectImage,Dromore,CountyDown 028 9269 0173B4 PrestigeUnisexHair&BeautySalon,Dungannon,CountyTyrone 028 8772 7676B4PureBeauty,Enniskillen,CountyFermanagh 028 6638 7616B5 PurpleLashesBeauty,Newtownards,CountyDown 028 9122 8003B5 RoamerHolisticHealth/BeautyClinic,Belfast,CountyDown 028 9181 5777B5 RougeBeautyClinic,Dungannon,CountyTyrone 028 8778 9998B5 SilksNail&BeautySpa,Bangor,CountyDown 028 9147 2044B5 SlieveGullionSpringsSpa&BeautySchoolofMake-Up,Newry 028 3088 9525B5SolaceToning&Spa,Derry,CountyLondonderry 028 7964 2551B3 TheBeautyofAngels,Lurgan 028 3832 6699B4 TheBeautyStudio,Newry,CountyDown 028 4177 4099B5 TouchBeautySpa,Coleraine,CountyLondonderry 028 7035 6200B4 UrbanBeauty,Lurgan,CountyArmagh 07736 318549B5 VanityTanning&BeautySalon,Newry,CountyDown 028 3082 5864B5 VanityTanning&BeautySalon,Cloughoge,CountyDown 07883 852169B5 ZestBeautyClinic,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9062 6555

GOODBARBERSGUIDE AndrewJonathan’sHairdresser,Portadown,CountyArmagh 028 3835 0616 CharlesClarkeGentsHairdressing,Finaghy,CountyDown 028 9060 4065 CraniumGentsHair,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9066 6885 HairbyShelley,Bangor,CountyDown 07541 286022 HeadstormBarberShop,Newry,CountyDown 028 3025 7177 ManeGentsHair,Belfast,CountyAntrim 028 9066 6445

GOODTRAININGGUIDE BCWTraining,Ballycastle 028 2076 2902

GOODSALONGUIDECOUNTYANTRIM5 BellaireHair&Beauty,Belfast 028 9024 58775 CarvalhoHair&Beauty,Belfast 028 9751 12445 ChocolateHairCompany,Lisburn 028 9266 41595 ChrysalisHair,Glengormley 028 9084 09525 ColorsHairdressing,Belfast 028 9077 55555 ColourworksHairStudio,Ballybeen 028 9048 39335 ExclusiveHairCompany,Belfast 028 9062 46664 HairStudio101,Ballymoney 028 2723 81865 Haze@No10,Larne 028 2827 2106 5 HeadOfficeHairCompany,Carryduff 028 9081 5987 4 HeadStart,Belfast 028 9066 46545 JimWalkerHairStudio,Ballymena 028 2563 05105 JosephScottHairdressing,Belfast 028 9064 01234 KarmaHairDesign,Ballyclare 028 9335 28085 KeithKaneHairInternational,Belfast 028 9081 36225 KennethMichaelInternationalHair&Beauty,Belfast028 9045 57405 lamonhairstudio,Belfast 028 9044 95485 LynseyQuinnHairdressing,Belfast 028 9079 35974 MenagèHairSalon,Belfast 028 9066 97075 MichaelQuinnHairdressing,Belfast 028 9043 40035 OasisHairSalon,Ballymena 028 2565 00904 RemaHair&Beauty,Antrim 028 9442 90005 SculpturesHair&Beauty,Newtownabbey 028 9086 55764 SleekHairdressing,Antrim 028 9442 91695 StephenCairnsHairdressing,Ballymoney 028 2766 27165 Studio18Hair&Beauty,Lisburn 028 9266 78725 TheBoathouseHairSalon,Ballycastle 028 2076 83025 TheFinalCut,Belfast 028 9045 92665 TheHairRoom,Belfast 028 9080 70775 TheHairRoom,Newtownabbey 028 9084 29605 theSittingroomhairdressing,Ballymena 028 2564 00015 Three’sCompany,Ballymena 028 2564 57505 ÜberHair,Belfast 028 9066 97745 UrbanHair,Belfast 028 9038 29155 UrbanHairBoutique,Lisburn 028 9260 11484 Urbanroots,Ballyhackamore 028 9065 8950

COUNTYARMAGH5 191HairDesigners&BeautyConsultants,Lurgan 028 3832 18084 Angelhair,Lurgan 028 3832 66995 ChocolateBlondeHairandBodyCouture,Markethill 028 3755 29925 CuttingIt,Armagh 028 3752 38584 HollywoodHair,Portadown 028 3839 19995 MGHairBoutique&MaleGrooming,Lurgan 028 3832 55435 Petra’sHouseofColour,Armagh 028 3751 13744 TheDiamondCutHairSalon,Aghagallon 028 9265 2326

DONEGAL5 B-Bobs,Letterkenny 07491265755 BernieRyan’sHairdressing,Letterkenny 07491271505 EdgeHairdressing&MakeUpArtists,Letterkenny 07491286274 ExclusiveHairDesign,Donegal 07493614155 HarkinHairdressing,Buncrana 07493225024 HeadworksUnisexSalon,Ramelton 07491525295 SerenityHair&BeautySalon,Gweedore 07495607005 TeresinaBarrettHairDesign,Ballyshannon 07198514904 TheLionsManeHairStudio,Ballyshannon 0719852693

COUNTYDOWN4 B’n’RHeadsUnisexHairdressers,Castlewellan 028 4377 84024 CaireenLangsfordHair,Holywood 028 9042 42014 Colleen’sHairSalon,Hilltown 028 4063 04344 EclipzeHairStudio,Dromore 028 9269 88195 GatsbyInternationalSalon,Bangor 028 9146 12445 GiftedTheSpiritofHair&Beauty,Newry 028 3084 98885 GigiHairGraduates,Downpatrick 028 4461 33935 HairFlair,Dundrum 028 4375 1009 5 HeadOffice,Ballynahinch 028 9756 1756 5 Jonathan’sHairSalon,Newtownards 028 9182 65065 LeeLyonsHairBoutique,Dromore 028 9269 39205 LisaWoodsHairSalon,Dundonald 028 9048 57075 PatrickMulhollandAvedaConcept,Holywood 028 9042 85115 PreciousHairDesign,Downpatrick 028 4461 44184 PublicImage,Dromore 028 9269 36345 RoelleHair&BeautyBoutique,Newry 028 3084 93734 SalonSix,Banbridge 028 4062 8501

The rating or code can be found against the salon name as follows:

R=RegisteredHairSalon3=3StarRatingHairSalon4=4StarRatingHairSalon5=5StarRatingHairSalonBR=RegisteredBeautySalonB3=3StarRatingBeautySalonB4=4StarRatingBeautySalonB5=5StarRatingBeautySalon

Find a qualified hairdresser near you!

Contact:

Jackie Donnellyfor a complimentary consultation or full details of treatments and special bridal packages

THE CLINIC – THE PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT

DISCOVER THE TRUE YOU WITH THE MOST INNOVATIVE NON-SURGICAL FACE AND BODY TREATMENTS

BotoxReduces frown lines, forehead lines and crows feet and can be used to treatunderarm sweating.

Restylane & PerlaneProviding fi rmness & elasticity to treat fi ne lines on the face and restore the skin’s natural fullness.

Juvederm UltraFor the smooth, lifted & minimised appearance of lines on the face and enhancement of the cheeks.

Cheek EnhancementsEnhanced cheeks for a more youthful look.

Lip AugmentationPouting & Contouring to create a more pronounced mouth and fuller lips.

RadiesseContouring, beautifying & stimulating the skin’s own production of collagen.

Sagging Jowls & Ageing Lips Treatment to reduce the appearance of sagging jowls & plump and refi ne lines around the lips.

Epionce Skin PeelsTreating sun damaged, ageing skin, acne & unwanted pigmentation for all skin types.

MicrodermabrasionTreating fi ne lines, wrinkles, sun damaged skin & acne proned skin.

Sclerotherapy

Treating broken red veins on legs.

Endermologie LPGAiding cellulite reduction, inch loss & toning (The Clinic is the fi rst salon to offer this in Northern Ireland).

Full range of treatments available.

All medical treatments are carried out by highly qualifi ed medical staff.

Confi dentiality assured.

www.thecliniclisburnroad.co.uk

45beauty

neW launcheS and exiSting productS you really muSt try...

TreatYourself...

Golden Girl Colour Crush Eyeshadow, £7, The Body Shop, www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Rodial Bee Venom Serum 30ml, £150, www.asos.com

Alphabet Wash Bag, £19.50, www.oliverbonas.com

NARS Limited Edition Soft Touch Shadow Pencil Corcovado,

£18, www.asos.com

ard Rock Nail Hardener £16, House of Fraser, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

46 beauty

O.P.I Mariah Carey Nail Polish, £11.50, www.asos.com

Autograph Eyeshadow Palette, £12, M&S, www.marksandspencer.com

Sweetpea Colour Crush Eyeshadow, £7, The Body Shop, www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Origins Great Starts Gift Set, £48, House of Fraser, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

M.A.C Mineralize Tined Lip Balm in Slightly Nude, £17, www.maccosmetics.co.uk

Celine Dion Signature 30ml eau de toilette, £5.99, Gordons Chemists, www.gordonsdirect.com

47beauty

Clinique New Moisture Surge CC Cream SPF30 Hydrating Colour Corrector, 40ml, £28, www.clinique.co.uk

M&S Eastern Escape Cherry Blossom Soothing Hand & Nail Cream, £3.50, www.marksandspencer.com

Penhaligons Ellenisia EDP, £95, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Smiths Minted Rose Balm, £7.50, www.cutecosmetics.co.uk

M&S The Floral Collection Rose Fragranced Cushions, £6, www.marksandspencer.com

By Terry Gold Dazzling Oil, £90, Space N.K, www.uk.spacenk.com

49beauty

thIs Issue InternatIonal maKe-up artIst Kim JaCob maKes up her BusIness

partner, louise redKnapp and talKs us through how to aChIeve a natural

glow for sprIng/summer usIng theIr wIld aBout Beauty maKe-up.

GET THE

LOOK

50 beauty

1I started by applying our Golden Skin Glow over

Louise’s moisturised skin, blending thoroughly, paying particular attention to the neck area. I like to use my fingers to apply this product, but you can use a cosmetic sponge if you prefer. This product is really versatile so you can use it on specific areas that would naturally catch the light, rather than the whole complexion.

2 Next, use our Smooth Cover Concealer Kit to remove

under eye shadows and conceal blemishes, I mixed the two shades to get the perfect match for Louise’s skin tone, then set the concealer with the HD powder using the sponge provided. If you are prone to more oily skin,

our Mattifying Balm is great for combatting these specific areas. I always try to leave the cheeks and chin area free from any powder, to make sure skin is left looking really natural.

3 Eyes came next, where I swept our silky Powder

Eyeshadow in Fern 05 across the whole of the lid, then used Powder Eyeshadow in Alana 06 in the outer corner of the eye to add a little extra definition and intensity. I applied lots of Nutrilash Nourishing Mascara to make Louise’s eyes really stand out. A good tip for adding natural volume is to apply one layer of mascara to both eyes, then go over again once the first layer is semi-dry.

4 I applied a small amount of our Multi-Purpose Tint

in Maggie 03 to the apple of Louise’s cheeks then blended outwards. This is a lovely, lightweight formulation which gives a healthy, natural flush of colour. To intensify you could sweep our Golden Beach Bronzer over the top to give a more bronzed look for the evening.

5 To complete the look I used Nutrilips Balm in Alice 02

to Louise’s lips, this nourishing balm really moisturises the lips whilst adding a hint of colour.

Golden Skin Glow, £21

Mattifying Balm, £21

Golden Beach Bronzer, £18

Nutrilash Mascara in Jack-Black, £18Powder Eyeshadow in

Fern & Alana, £13 each

MuM’s the WordAt roamer holistic health & Beauty Clinic

we’ve got Mother’s day all wrapped up! With spa treatments from top to toe, to tailored gift

packages and vouchers, be sure to visit our award winning salon nestled in the heart of Co. down.

RoameRholistiC heAlth & BeAuty CliniC

17 Frances street, newtownards, Bt23 7dWT: 028 9181 5777 W: www.roamerholistic.co.uk

Turn Back TimeTreat your mum to a CaCI facial

(non-surgical facelift) & we’ll let her enjoy a complimentary

hydro-tone masque

Gift Packages

mum’s Time outDermalogica Deluxe Facial and

aromatherapy Full Back massage presented in a chic gift box

(with £22 of FRee products)

52 beauty

thiS month i handed my Spa Sleuth mantel over to my colleague hollie, SayS our regular columniSt Cathy Martin. a beauty junkie if ever there WaS one, With her previouS Work for clinique and love of all thingS pamper and preening, hollie alSo haS luSciouS long lockS; So When i WaS offered to revieW MiChael Quinn hairdressing on royal avenue, Who better to trial it than She?

Spa Slueth

I Can almost taste a touCh of spring in the air, the evenings are getting lighter and the sprinkle of daffodils starting to bloom reminds me that the brighter months lie ahead. I decided to blow the winter cobwebs out of my hair and recently indulged in an afternoon treatment at Michael Quinn Hairdressing, ideally situated only two minutes from the office on Royal Avenue, Belfast.

As I stepped into the newly refurbished salon, I felt instantly relaxed. I was offered herbal tea (suitably detoxifying) and took some time out to read a hair magazine for some inspiration in the contemporary and funky design of the new waiting area. The salon feels a lot more spacious and the floor length windows provide a well-lit, bright atmosphere, I could sit and unwind while watching the world go by.

The recent re-vamp was to celebrate Michael’s new role as the

53beauty

first educator for hair care brand JOICO, the range of products that he uses in the salon. This was a particular honour for Michael as he is the first and only one to hold this title in Northern Ireland. Both Michael and his creative team will now be offering various training seminars to hairdressing students and are perfectly primed to do so having won numerous awards throughout the years and recently undergone intensive training from the hair care brand, not to mention the long list of celebrities who swear by Michael’s hairstyling, a testament to the extremely high quality of work the team produces.

My appointment was with Michael himself and started with a truly relaxing cleanse of my hair. This was great, particularly as my hair is both long and thick so having someone wash it for me for a change was just perfect.

After shampooing, I was treated to an intense conditioning treatment and relaxing head

massage, perfect to inject a new lease of life into my hair, leaving it smooth, soft and perfectly conditioned for spring. The massage provided just the right amount of pressure and left me feeling instantly revived. JOICO ‘Revitaluxe’ from the K-Pack range was the miracle treatment used and Michael stressed to me the importance of using this product at least once a month to strengthen and repair the hair follicles and create a smoother finish without knots or tugs. It will also add much needed moisture leaving the hair with added strength and shine, so of course I bought that to bring home and it has worked a treat since.

Feeling better already, the next step in my hair make over was a blow dry full of volume and energy, just what I needed. Michael applied a little JOICO Structure Foundation Hair Prep and Primer prior to blow drying; this provides more moisture and shine without weighing the hair down. He then used large round brushes and dried segments of the hair from root to tip to create enviable volume.

To finish a little serum was applied to the ends, again he used a JOICO product, K-Pak Protect and Shine serum, it gave my hair a glossy and defined finish and ensured my blowdry remained in place all day.

To help welcome the season I highly suggest you take a break from Spring cleaning and visit Michael and his team in his thriving city centre salon for the ultimate in hair therapy. I left the salon completely refreshed, with beautifully tamed locks and a spring in my step.

JOICO Structure, Foundation Hair Prep and Primer, £10.95

JOICO, K-Pak Revitaluxe, £14.95

54 hair

at herve leger, Bumble and bumble Editorial Stylist Laurent Philippon used Semisumo to craft precise, glossy harnesses of hair. The look was a single braid at one side of the head that wrapped across the back, restraining hair that would have otherwise hung free. Bumble and bumble Editorial Stylist Rolando Beauchamp twisted strands into thick rope braids at Mathieu Mirano. Double inverted French braids at Honor were James Pecis’s nod to the trend, where ends were securely anchored to the head with numerous bejewelled pins.

Braided& BoundBraids ruled the runway this season and BumBle and BumBle were on hand to help create these stylish catwalk looks.

All Bumble and bumble products as well as trend and styling advice are available from Paul stafford hairdressing, Lisburn Road, Belfast. www.paulstafford.co.uk

Key Products:surf spray, £20.50 Does it All styling spray, £21 semisumo, £21.50

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57interiors

ThIs IssUE WE BRInG yOU MORE sUMPTUOUs InTERIORs FOR yOUR hOME In PRETTy PAsTELs AnD MUTED COLOURWAys...

TreatYourself

TU Sorbet Striped 12 Piece Dinner Set, £35, Sainsbury’s, www.sainsburys.co.uk

Copenhagen Pair of Dining Chairs, £206, Sainsbury’s, www.sainsburys.co.uk

Matthew Williamson Peacock Floral Teapot, £27.50, Debenhams, www.debenhams.com

Curiosity Frill Teacup, £10, House of Fraser, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

DeLonghi Blue Vintage Icona Coffee Machine, £153, Debenhams, www.debenhams weddings.com

58 interiors

Iver, £125, The Chandelier & Mirror Company Ltd, www.chandeliersandmirrors.co.uk

Graham Button Back Armchair, £749, House of Fraser, www.

houseoffraser.co.uk

Linea Natural Baco Vase, £22, House of Fraser, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Shabby Chic Vintage Posy Arrangement, £35,

House of Fraser, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Bird Candle in Linen, £6.95, www.nordichouse.co.uk

John Rocha Felt Loop Cushion, £25, Debenhams, www.debenhams.com

59interiors

Crawford Footstool, £379, House of Fraser, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Smile Word, £10, Next, www.next.co.uk

Boucle Knit Throw, £30, Next, www.next.co.uk

Balthazar Table Lamp, £60, Next, www.next.co.uk

Plume Boudoir Cushion, £25, House of Fraser, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Betty Jackson Melody Bedding Double Duvet, £45 & Pillow Cases, £24, Debenhams, www.debenhams.com

60 interiors

Seasonal Style

BrIng some easter-InspIred InterIors Into

your home...

Sophie Allport Chicken Solo Espresso Cup & Saucer, £10, www.sophieallport.com

Rabbit Objet, £19.50, M&S, www.marksandspencer.com

Guzzini Violet Egg Cup Set, £5.50, www.omlet.co.uk

Spring Chicken Hooks, £9.99, The Contemporary Home, www.tch.net

Rose & Agapanthus Bouquet, £20, M&S, www.marksandspencer.com

yankee Candle Bunny Cake Large Classic Jar, £19.99, www.yankeecandle.co.uk

61interiors

Laura Lee Designs Hand Painted Bunny Egg Cup, £8.50, www.lauraleedesigns.co.uk

62 home

63home

Project Home

thIs month we pay a vIsIt to a home In BraCKen hIll In Belfast and speaK to the InterIor

desIgner patrICIa mCgInnIs of projeCttwo.

PhotograPhy: Bradley Quinn

“I wanted to Create a home that is elegant and peaceful,” says Patricia McGinnis of ProjectTwo. And this is certainly what has been achieved at this beautiful Bracken Hill property. Using a muted and sophisticated palette, Patricia has created a look that enables one room to segue seamlessly into the next. The

scheme is enlivened by clever use of texture and tone, a sequined fabric in one room and a classic plaid in the next.

“If you are keen to achieve a grown-up and sophisticated feel in your home, use a limited colour palette throughout. It will give your home cohesiveness and ensure that the rooms flow

64 home

from one to the next. To make sure it doesn’t become boring however, use lots of texture. Varied textures can be as effective as varied colours and keeps things interesting and tactile. Don’t be scared to use different patterns, as long as you keep the colours and pattern size carefully edited, it can look great. Picking out a contrasting colour is also effective. In the living room in this house, I have chosen purple floral arrangements to add a pop of

colour,” Patricia adds.Patricia as always has chosen

furniture from diverse sources ranging from Andrew Martin and Oka to pieces she designed herself and had custom made for the project. “A headboard is relatively inexpensive way to make a room look finished. Find an upholsterer and talk to them about what you are looking for. If you want something quite specific then draw your design for them along with measurements. They will be able

65home

66 home

67home

to make you a piece according to your design. Most upholsterers also have fabric books or will tell you how much fabric they will need for your piece if you want to source fabric elsewhere. The same goes for all soft furnishings, chairs, sofas etc – make friends with an upholster is my advice!”

“A welcoming atmosphere in a home can easily be created with lights, and that includes, table lamps, candles and fairy lights. I would rarely put on the overhead

light in a room unless I have a task to do,” says Patricia. “It is impossible to be cosy with one soulless bulb - no matter how beautiful the lampshade. Put lamps on and light candles where you can the moment dusk falls. Even if you do nothing else to your interior this will create instant atmosphere.”

Patricia is happy to help with any interior queries you may have, no matter how small. Have a look at www.projecttwo.co.uk for more information.

68 motoring

the euro-zone and the world may still be knee deep in recession, but take a walk around the Geneva motor show and you’ll see Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren etc have launched luxury hypercars costing up to three million pounds each.

European (normal) car sales dropped by a staggering 3.3 million last year, yet super-luxury cars continue to defy this with China and the Arab world enjoying splashing the cash.A simple rule of thumb is this - the rich always get richer and the gap between the BT9ers and BT phones being cut off widens. In good times and bad times and more so The Sunday Times, annual look at me I’m awesome

SuperCarsthiS month a look at thoSe fantaSy carS moSt of uS can only dream of!

by Barry O’Doherty

69motoring

list rarely declines, unless of course, your names Mr S. Quinn, and the Irish state want to take all your Lego sets away and put you in the slammer Monopoly style.

Anyway, forgive my ramblings. You’ll notice this month I am not reviewing a car. Instead I have decided to have a look at some of the shiny ordinary man in the street cars revealed at the Geneva Motor show this year. As the world struggles with massive unemployment, banks unwilling to lend, the economy downgraded and the triple dip recession gathering

momentum we’ll start at one of the most expensive.

Lamborghini's new £3 million Veneno (Veneno Means Poison in Spanish). Only three will be made and you can have a green one, a white one or a red one. The colours of the Italian flag or “fleg” as one might say! 60 MPH will come in about three seconds from 740BHP and if you feel knowing the MPG would sway your decision then I’m afraid it won’t and you can’t afford it and all three are already sold!

Another car with a more realistic price tag is Ferrari’s new LaFerrari, a snitch at £1 million – one of the least evocative names of any Ferrari ever. However, my God is this car beautiful. It’s also a hybrid offering a staggering 950BHP and a whole load of other stats that will impress and baffle you in equal measure. 499 will be made, so hurry and order now! Oh wait, sorry, all sold! But please note each new owner will have their seat moulded by Ferrari so when you see one up for grabs on UTVDrive start slimming.

And finally, those clever boffins at McLaren have a replacement for the ultimate poster supercar of the 90’s, the (seat in the middle) F1. The new one is called the P1 which I suspect came from the class that designed the rear end. It’s a bit of a bug eye. However friends, this one’s a cheapy at a mere £866,000. For me though I can’t get the buggies out of my head when I think of McLaren nor do I want to drive a car that’s a surname. It’s like buying your shoes in Clarks.

Top tip guys – If you can afford one keep it a few years. An Original McLaren F1 retailed at £635,000 back in the mid 90’s and one recently

went for $4 million at auction. see...the rich keep getting richer!

70 lfw

well here I am again over for London Fashion Week - only for two days unfortunately, but still it’s great to soak up the atmosphere around Somerset House and get a sneak peak of all of the style coming though for A/W13. Plus my little girl always likes to add a new canvas LFW shopper to her collection!

Thanks to Aer Lingus I flew from Belfast City Airport to Heathrow, and having flown with another airline to Pais a few days before, I have to say it was great to actually be able to carry my handbag on to the plane and not frantically try to fit it into my hand luggage! Plus the staff were helpful and pleasant - again a skill lacking with the other airline earlier in the week!

After a swift, seamless flight, I made my way to St.Ermin’s Hotel in Westminster where I was to be staying overnight. This is a gorgeous hotel that has undergone a £30 million refurbishment, literally five minutes walk from Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and The Mall - and if you head in the opposite direction

the same from Scotland Yard! So, the location was perfect for a stroll after breakfast the next morning to take in some sights on my quick overnight visit.

Having arrived just after 9am I went to grab a quick bite in a nearby Pret A Manger before returning to check into my room and freshen up before hitting the chaos of Fashion Week. The rooms at St. Ermin’s are comfortable and inviting - no really this is one place where you actually want to have the time to enjoy were you are staying.

A Stylish Stopovermargaret Connolly headed over to London for a brief two-day stay to take in the sights and sounds of London fashion week.

71lfw

Travel: aer lingus flies three times daily to london heathrow and london gatwick, increasing frequency to gatwick from three to four times daily (excluding saturdays) from 31st march 2013. with fares starting from as little as £24.99, aer lingus has your london travel needs sorted! for more information on great fares and schedules, please visit www.aerlingus.com. accommodaTion: st. ermins hotel, 2 Caxton street, london. t: 020 7222 7888. w: sterminshotel.co.uk

Unfortunately, there was no time for hanging about today with catwalk shows to get to and if possible some shopping in Convent Garden as well!

I jumped in a taxi hailed by the concierge and within a few minutes I was at Somerset House surrounded by the usual melee of fashionistas from all over the globe there to be noticed and express their own personal styles. To be honest it actually was at the point of ridiculous is some cases - the guy in the gimp mask and the woman wearing a cat head which looked like it weighed a ton - what was that about?

Personalities aside it was time to hit the exhibition space and take in the new designs for the season ahead. I have to say that my favourite place had to be the Topshop Newgen area only because they had these cool tokens that you used to get badges and jellybeans - we’re all big kids at heart! Also next to here was the Toni & Guy blowdry bar and the MAC Cosmetics stand as well as the press area where you can relax and refresh with a Vitamin Water.

At 2pm it was time to head to the John Rocha show and as usual it was packed and his distinctive designs were admired as they made their way down the catwalk. As usual I think I spent longer queuing than the show actually took - about ten minutes and it’s all done and dusted.

With the Issa show, which I was lucky enough to get a ticket for, not until 6pm and having exhausted the exhibition that morning, I headed to nearby Covent Garden which was bustling as always. Returning to Somerset House Issa didn’t disappoint with Cara Develingne opening the show and across the catwalk from where I was sitting I was FROW spotting Rochelle and Molly from the Saturdays as well as Laura Whitmore, Tamara Beckwith and Zandra Rhodes - not bad for a day’s work!

So, while I headed back to my hotel to rest my weary feet and enjoy a meal in their restaurant, Fashion Week continued long into the night with shows taking place in venues all over the city. Every time I go I do enjoy the experience and the buzz of it all and as a fashion writer it’s great to have a sense of this bi-annual event which just keeps getting bigger every year.

72 travel

two plaCes are a must to see while visiting Vietnam, the first of these is the harbour town of Hoi An. This is a charming sleepy village, with plenty of culture, if that’s what you’re into. Having gained the status as a UNESCO world heritage site, Hoi An is the country’s best preserved ancient city. You can take a peek back in time into a 19th century merchant house, or explore an ancient temple. However, the town’s biggest, and best kept secret is that it is the country’s capital for tailoring, and I don’t mean cheap knock off tailoring. Bring along your measurements from your best Hugo Boss suit, and the tailors here will create you a bespoke suite from exquisite fabric, made-to-measure at a fraction of the price, you will be surprised at the quality you end up with.

If you stop here for some dinner,

028 3832 3618pinnacleworldwide.co.uk

Visit our travel lounge at:57 Church Place, Lurgan, Co.Armagh, BT66 6HD(Please make an appointment)

let me recommended cao lau, the city’s own speciality in the form of noodles with bean sprouts, croutons, greens and pork, said to be prepared from water from the

Ba Le Well in the centre of town.If you’ve taken in all you can

of Hoi An’s cultural delights, then it’s time to hit the beach. Just beyond Hoi An lies China

Good Morning Vietnameven for the SeaSoned traveller, vietnam can be a culture-Shock Where the old not-So-SeamleSSly blendS With the neW, and everything in betWeen. you’ll be SurpriSed at juSt hoW incredible thiS Stunning country iS and pinnaCle WorldWide travel ConsultanCy Will be happy to help you plan your trip.

by Kate Wilson

73travel

Exceptional holidays. Boutique service.

Beach, one of the most alluring stretches of coastline in all of Vietnam. From May to July is the perfect time to visit China Beach as the sea is at its calmest and hot, but refreshingly breezy weather. This beach is quite like no other as it’s lined with the relics of an ancient empire, including the Cham temples of My Son where the sunset is the most beautiful.

The second place on the must see list is Nha Trang. In contrast to the rather sleepy Hoi an, Nha Trang is a buzzing seaside resort, but there much more to it than just sun, sea and, well, sand. For

one, the diving here is the best in the country, and what better surroundings to it it than with a mountainous backdrop and a sea dotted with tropical islands. Now i the time to visit Nha Trang, as it has managed the balance between catering for quite considerable numbers of tourists, including a rather energetic nightlife, whilst maintaining a certain small(ish) town charm, but with a few high rise hotels springing up, we can only hope it will hang on to what makes it so special.

If you want to spend the night in either of these places, the Nam Hai is perfect if luxury is an important aspect of your stay. Set on the iconic China Beach you will be spoiled with sumptuous Vietnamese interior and views over the ocean and beyond. This is designer boutique chic at its best.

For a more modest budget, and reserved taste in accommodation, the Evason Ana Mandara, is still sure to impress. The minimalistic scheme compliments its situation right on the beach and immediately will put you at ease. This hotel does not skimp on views and when staying, take the opportunity to walk out on the balcony with a glass of something fruity at sunset, and you will know that this is a holiday to remember.

Travel to Vietnam: Anytime from April to October is a good time to visit, as the temperatures are hot, but the breeze ensures its bearable.

75food

TRy ThIs sIMPLE, yET ExqUIsITE ChEEsECAKE RECIPE AT hOME, AT An EAsTER FAMILy LUnCh OR As A DELICIOUs DInnER PARTy DEssERT.

A Sweet TreatRaspberry & White Chocolate Cheesecake

WhAT yOU’LL nEED: • 200gs Cream Cheese• 100mls Whipped Cream• 500g Icing sugar• 50g White Chocolate• 50gs Raspberries• 2 Gelatine leaves• 100gs Digestive Biscuits• 25g Melted Butter

hOW TO MAKE:Mix the cream cheese and cream together. Add the icing sugar and white chocolate pieces.Mix well and finally add melted gelatine and raspberries. Place mixture equally between the prepared biscuit base rings which have been lined with the digestive biscuit mixture of biscuits and butter. Chill for one hour.

EnjOy: serve with raspberry purée, fresh mint leaf and Chantilly cream.

this light and delicious cheesecake recipe is courtesy of st george’s market bar and grill Head Chef ray malcolmson. For more information on st george’s market bar & grill visit www.stgeorgesmarketbarandgrill.com

76 travel

st ermIn’s sIgnature restaurant, The Caxton Grill serves modern European food in relaxed, contemporary surroundings and was the destination for myself and my friend on a Saturday evening in London recently. I have to say at this point, that I stayed at this hotel a couple of years ago after it’s refurbishment and although time has past, the striking décor and its upkeep looks as fresh as it did then.

After a day on our feet around the sights and sounds of Somerset House during London Fashion Week, we were ready to enjoy a relaxing evening with good food and wine - and this is exactly what we got!

Booking our table on arrival that morning for 9pm we had spent the day looking forward to the culinary treats that awaited us. These began with olives, delicious breads and oils, and of course, a crisp, white wine.

I opted for the salmon starter

London’s Callingon a recent trip to london margaret Connolly enjoyed the dining experience of the caxton grill at St. ermin’S hotel.

77travel

which was a mix of poached and smoked salmon, both equally tasty, while my friend choose the mussels. Both were beautifully presented and boded well for our main course.

The Caxton Grill is among one of a handful of London

restaurants to install a Josper Grill, a new innovative cooking method that imparts a distinctive charcoal flavour to all the meat and fish placed upon its coals, so this may well have been one of the reasons why we rated our main courses of fish and steak so highly.

Although full - we managed to struggle on to dessert! I probably ate most of my own banana and peanut butter creation as well as my friend’s very rich chocolate orange one. Mine was definitely the best, but only because the chocolate desert was so rich, but delicious nonetheless.

Once we had finished we made our way into the adjoining Caxton Bar and indulged in a cocktail each by the fire before retiring to our rooms for the night content and relaxed after a lovely evening of good food, wine and conversation in the most tranquil of surroundings.

St. Ermin's Hotel, 2 Caxton St, London, T: 020 7222 7888. www.sterminshotel.co.uk

78 film

what’s It aBout?Based on the book of the same name and featuring an all-star cast, Cloud Atlas uses six interlocking stories that span several centuries, beginning in the 1840s and ending in a distant, post-apocalyptic future, to look at the nature of love and destiny.

my thoughtsCloud Atlas is a strange beast. The screen adaptation of David Mitchell’s complex bestseller is many things: mesmerising, elegant, bombastic, moving, silly, over-played, and, from time to time, utterly baffling. By turns, it’s clever, very clever, and nowhere near as clever as it thinks. In short, it’s as shifting, insubstantial, and strangely beautiful as its name suggests.

The source novel is divided into six separate narratives, each referencing the one before, which run chronologically from the past to the future and back again. The movie holds onto the central premise but, instead of presenting the stories in blocks, it interweaves them, integrating them much more coherently and turning them into a sweeping meditation on love, mortality and destiny. Ambitious? Absolutely. The only problem is… that’s not really what the novel was trying to do. And, while that’s definitely not

by rachael Kelly

a bad thing – it gives the movie a deeper emotional resonance that the book often lacks – it does mean that those narratives that don’t lend themselves well to themes of a deathless love that endures throughout eternity (Luisa Rey and Timothy Cavendish, for example) end up looking out of place. The movie plays genre hopscotch with joyful abandon, and often does it so seamlessly that - believe it or not - you won’t notice that you’ve leapt from corsets-and-cummerbunds to high concept sci-fi, but where the unifying theme can’t be comfortably squeezed in, it has the effect of collapsing the whole tricksy house of cards.

There’s no denying that this is a film with a lot of heart, and when it works, it’s spellbinding. When it doesn’t, it’s messy - try and watch Tom Hanks’ Oirish gangster schtick without cringing. It’s more hit than miss, and there’s a truly great movie in here somewhere – it’s just that it feels, sometimes, like it would take a regular atlas to find it.

film review:

Cloud Atlas

79

People & PartiesThIs IssUE WE FEATURE sOME OF ThE BEsT EvEnTs

ThAT TOOK PLACE In ThE LAsT FEW WEEKs AnD

BRInG yOU TWO BEAUTIFUL LOCAL WEDDInGs

people & parties

80

Victoria Smurfit

Andrew Scott

Dawn Porter & Chris O’Dowd

Jack Reynor & Madeline Mulqueen

Scoot McNairy & Whitney Able

people & parties

81

Celebrating 10 Years of the IFTAsPhotograPhy: Kyran O’Brien

WInnErs OF ThE 10th Annual Irish Film & Television Awards were announced at a Gala Awards Ceremony in February. Over 1,000 industry professionals were out on force to enjoy this year’s event which

was hosted by Simon Delaney and rewarded the best of Irish creative talent across acting, producing, directing, writing, and craft categories, from production design, to hair and make-up, to editing to sound.

Rosanna Davison

James Nesbitt Colm Meaney & Áine Moriarty

people & parties

83

Art Meets OscarsPhotograPhy: Elaine Hill

IT WAs MOvIE MAGIC at the recent glam launch of local, contemporary artist Christine Trueman’s new body of work. Her solo exhibition “Screen Lovers”, inspired by the 85th anniversary of the Oscars, was launched by Carrie Neely Contemporary Art at an Oscars

themed night in the QFT. For more information about Christine’s work, please call Carrie Neely Contemporary Art on 028 9020 5917 or 07983 430763, or email carrie@carrieneely.com. Alternatively, contact Christine directly via www.christinetrueman.com

people & parties

Krystina Liddell & Lee Boyd

Leah Archibald & Ben Martin

Lynne Gregg Sara O’Neill

Roy Rennix & Clare Jordan

Enjoy Together Responsibly BACARDÍ and the Bat Device are registered trademarks of Bacardi & Company Limited.

facebook.com/bacardi

85wedding

sIoBhan duffy of Glengormley and her fiancé, Brian Darby of Newry, won a £10,000 dream wedding with Galgorm Resort & Spa after entering the 2012 Wedding Fayre competition at the Resort & Spa’s widely popular Bridal Open Day. Siobhan and Brian's prize also included photography by award winning

photographer Michael McKay, flowers by Sally’s Floral Studio, music by Arco String Quartet and Wedding Band ‘Curve,’ and wedding cake supplied by Heavenly Cakes and Favours. The lucky couple spent a few days in Donegal following the big day before their honeymoon in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

A Dream Come TruePhotograPhy: Michael McKay Photography

86 wedding

SitBack

...& let us add the finishing touch to your event.

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88 the final word

ThIs MOnTh WE POsE OUR qUEsTIOns TO saraH travers WhO hAs jOInED UTv TO FROnT A nEW MAGAzInE shOW EnTITLED ThE MAGAzInE WhICh sTARTs On EAsTER sUnDAy (31 MARCh) AT 7.30PM.

who are you Closest to?I’d say I am closer to different people at different times for different things - my mum, my husband and children and my lovely friends. Although my children though would probably say I’m closest to my new iPhone! They say I spend more time on it at the minute than on them. Bad mummy!

what Is your earlIest memory?I find I hurtle back through time when I smell a scent from my childhood. I imagine that I don’t remember much about my grandparents, but then I smell a soap that my granny would have used (Imperial Leather) and I can see every inch of her

bathroom, or if I smell a pipe being smoked, I can remember cuddling up to my grandpa and watching Coronation Street. what Is your BIggest fear?Fear itself! relaxatIon Is...A facial and hot stone massage!

what are you Best at?Smiling!

what do you value In a partner?Support, advice, friendship and being part of a team.

what wIll shoCK us?I failed my maths GCSE.

when dId you last feel really happy?This morning! I love this time of the year and there’s so much going on for me at the minute: it’s such a buzz!

what Is your BIggest regret?I would be a worrier - and I regret the amount of time and energy I’ve wasted through worry.

what would you Change aBout your lIfe?I’ve just made huge changes to my life in this latest chapter of my career which means I get to see so much more of my family. It was a big risk giving up a staff job - but one I’m so glad I took!

Up Close & Personal

ContaCtbarry@od-media.co.uk

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