the mailbox magazine, issue 5

M A G A Z I N E

INSIDEYOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO SPRING/SUMMER 2012 FROM

HARVEY NICHOLS

LK BENNETTEMPORIO ARMANIHUGO BOSSALLSAINTS... AND MORE

SPRING/SUMMER 2012

ISSUE 5.

WIN A £500 SHOPPING SPREE

PLUS: DINING, BEAUTY,

SPA AND SALONS, AND

NEW SEASON MUST-HAVES

t h e m a i l b o x m a g a z i n e

2

The views expressed in this publication are those of the respective contributors and are not necessarily shared by The Mailbox and its employees. The

publication assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or part

without permission from the publishers. Prices are correct at time of going to print. All rights reserved.

i s s u e F i v e

s P R i N G / s u M M e R 2 0 1 2

HARVEY NICHOLS

ALLSAINTS

EMPORIO ARMANI

FAT FACE

GIEVES & HAWKES

HUGO BOSS

LK BENNETT

THOMAS PINK

DANIEL FOOTWEAR

BANG & OLUFSEN

CASTLE GALLERIES

THE AGA SHOP

FIRED EARTH

MALMAISON LE PETIT SPA

NICKY CLARKE SALONS

TONI & GUY ESSENSUALS

MALMAISON

RAMADA

BAR EPERNAY

BAR ESTILO

BAR ROOM BAR

CAFFE GUSTO

CAFƒ ROUGE

CïTE BRASSERIE

GOURMET BURGER

KITCHEN

MILLER & CARTER

NANDO'S

PENNYBLACKS

PIZZA EXPRESS

RED PEPPERS

SHOGUN

STRADA

THE ORIENTAL

ZIZZI

c o N t R i b u t o R s

Published on behalf of The Mailbox by Publishing Ink Ltd.

T h e M a i l b o x , 6 1 W h a r f s i d e S t r e e t , B i r m i n g h a m , B 1 1 X L

Call us: 0 1 2 1 6 3 2 1 0 0 0

Follow us on twitter: @ M a i l b o x l i f e

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Visit our website: w w w . m a i l b o x l i f e . c o m

Special Thanks The Mailbox Team

Thanks to Harvey Nichols, Kevin Breese, Lisa Piddington, Neil Holbrook, Sian Brunt, Anna Davidson

For Publishing Ink Ltd, Managing Director Andrew Riley, Editor Sarah Drew Jones, Design Damian Bennett, Mark Sargent,

Editorial Assistant Jennifer Walker www.publishingink.co.uk

FRONT COVER:

PHOTOSHOOT: Photographer: Darren Black; stylist: Michael Temprano; art director: Neil Holbrook; models: Sophie Pomfret and Josh

Copeland @ Select; makeup/grooming: Natasha Lawes; hair: Niki Black

PRINTED TANK, £110, WESTON, AND JEANS, £180, JAMES JEANS, BOTH FROM HARVEY NICHOLS.

T H E M A I L B O X M A G A Z I N E

3

W E L C O M E T O T H E M A I L B O X M A G A Z I N E

SPRING: THE SEASON OF FASHION

FABULOUSNESS, NEW TRENDS TO

TRY AND - BEST OF ALL - THE

START OF AL FRESCO WINING AND

DINING. AT THE MAILBOX, OUR

SHOPS ARE ALREADY PACKED WITH

NEW SEASON GOODIES, FROM ART AND

ACCESSORIES TO CUTE SHOES AND

CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY.

� is new – issue brings you plenty of ideas,

from our luxury hotels and boutiques

to the glorious Harvey Nichols. It seems

2012 is going to be a vintage year. Like

the rest of the country, we’re looking

forward to a landmark summer: from � e

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee to the Olympics

and oodles of sporting tournaments in

between, there are plenty of reasons to

celebrate with friends and family.

And when it comes to socialising, you’ll be

spoilt for choice with our vast selection of

stylish restaurants, sophisticated bars and

friendly cafes. Whether you want to dine

outside on a sunny terrace, relax with a

cocktail or grab an after-work pizza, you’ll

fi nd the right spot at � e Mailbox. Keep an

eye on our website – www.mailboxlife.com

– for the latest news: we’ll have special

events, offers, parties and launches all

through the year.

Spring brings with it a wonderful sense

of starting over. If you’re looking to

revitalise after dark winter days, why not

book into Malmaison’s Le Petit Spa for a

little pampering, or the Nicky Clarke and

Toni & Guy Essensuals salons for a new

look? Team it with a whole new season

wardrobe: you may even be inspired by

these pages! We hope to see you soon at

� e Mailbox.

� e Mailbox team

C O N T E N T S

24-26BEAUTY NEWS

27-33MEN'S AGENDA

37 FOOD & DRINK NEWS

4-23S/S FASHION

37-44 THE MAILBOX

36-37 NEW AT HARVEY NICHOLS

34-35 MAILBOX MOST WANTED


4

BODY WORKS

STRIPE STYLE

AS SUMMER SHIMMERS INTO VIEW, START THE BEACH-BODY COUNTDOWN WITH SOME TOP-NOTCH SPA GOODIES.

The lovely Bath Oil palette, £27, by ESPA at

Malmaison Le Petit Spa, will get skin soft,

glowing, and fragrant in no time.

GOING

FOR GOLDINSPIRED BY THE 2012 OLYMPICS, LK BENNETT HAS SHOWERED GLAMOROUS GOLD ON its new collection. Think

sunkissed vintage gilt rather than

glittery gold: worked to perfection

on this python print leather bag

£375 and sandals £225.

W O M E N ’ S A G E N D A S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 2

TICKING TWO TREND BOXES - STRIPES AND NEON - THE CUTESY Charlotte dress, £45 from

Fat Face, could just be the

best sundress we've seen.

The burst of colour punches

up the classic shape, making

it an instant must-have.

GOING






CARRIED AWAYA BEAUTIFUL BAG IS FOR LIFE... ESPECIALLY IF YOU carry your whole

life around in it. This

spacious D&G shopper

in deliciously rich cream

leather has a shoulder

strap and multiple

pockets to keep you

organised. It’s £785 at

Daniel Footwear.


4

BODY WORKS

STRIPE STYLE

AS SUMMER SHIMMERS INTO VIEW, START THE BEACH-BODY COUNTDOWN WITH SOME TOP-NOTCH SPA GOODIES.

The lovely Bath Oil palette, £27, by ESPA at

Malmaison Le Petit Spa, will get skin soft,

glowing, and fragrant in no time.

GOING







TICKING TWO TREND BOXES - STRIPES AND NEON - THE CUTESY Charlotte dress, £45 from

Fat Face, could just be the

best sundress we've seen.

The burst of colour punches

up the classic shape, making

it an instant must-have.

GOING






CARRIED AWAYA BEAUTIFUL BAG IS FOR LIFE... ESPECIALLY IF YOU carry your whole

life around in it. This

spacious D&G shopper

in deliciously rich cream

leather has a shoulder

strap and multiple

pockets to keep you

organised. It’s £785 at

Daniel Footwear.


5

STAR

STATEMENT

always inventive, emporio armani's new collection has a quirky take on the classic boater.

The hats, in timeless black

and white, nod to the 80s

revival and look amazing

paired with this season’s

slim-cut tuxedos.

maybe it's the influence of the duchess of cambridge, but there's a new

conservative vibe in fashion

right now. Dialling into this

trend, BoSS Black created

this stand-out day dress in

soft heather, £479, for the

spring collection.

DRESS UP

oN ToP

TWENTIES

CHIC


loved by katy perry and lady gaga, philip armstrong's statement designs are rarely out of the

headlines thanks to their

structured, fierce beauty. We’re

coveting this skater dress, £785,

exclusively at Harvey Nichols.

gucci stormed the spring/summer '12 runways with a stunning collection of Art Deco style

dresses in gold, black and

mirrored ivory. AllSaints is

channelling the trend with this

fantastic collector’s piece, £295.


6

L U S T - h a v e S

T a k e s p r i n g t o a n e w l e v e l o f g l a m o u r , w i t h t h e s e g o r g e o u s

t r e a t s f r o m H a r v e y N i c h o l s

1: Alexander McQueen skull clutch, £930 2: Butter London nail polish, £12 3: Yves Saint Laurent Trib Too heels, £550

4: Stila shimmer powder, £15 5: Penhaligon’s Eau San Pareil, £110 6: Marc by Marc Jacobs bracelet, £85

AT

1.

3.

5.

6.

2.

4.


6

L U S T - h a v e S

T a k e s p r i n g t o a n e w l e v e l o f g l a m o u r , w i t h t h e s e g o r g e o u s

t r e a t s f r o m H a r v e y N i c h o l s

1: Alexander McQueen skull clutch, £930 2: Butter London nail polish, £12 3: Yves Saint Laurent Trib Too heels, £550

4: Stila shimmer powder, £15 5: Penhaligon’s Eau San Pareil, £110 6: Marc by Marc Jacobs bracelet, £85

AT

1.

3.

5.

6.

2.

4.

77

Victoria, V

ictoria B

eckham scallop neck dress, £595, c

hristian l

ouBoutin patent p

igalle shoes, £375.

Fresh From winning designer brand oF the year at the 2011 british Fashion awards, Victoria beckham's collection arriVes at harVey nichols For s/s '12.

SWEET CHIC

8

ACNE priNtEd drEss, £470, ACNE soft lEAthEr bikEr jACkEt, £800, both h

ArvEy N

iChols

add edge to spring's rich prints by teaming them with chic leather in muted shades.

PARADISE PRINTS:

8

ACNE priNtEd drEss, £470, ACNE soft lEAthEr bikEr jACkEt, £800, both h

ArvEy N

iChols

add edge to spring's rich prints by teaming them with chic leather in muted shades.

PARADISE PRINTS:


9

SPRING'S MOOD IS PRETTY, FEMININE AND BURSTING WITH ICE-CREAM PASTELS AND PRISTINE WHITE.

Stock up on sweetie shades of spearmint, sugar-pink, bitter lemon and creamy vanilla as fashion goes full-on for breezy

colours and chic, streamlined silhouettes.

ICE

QU

EE

NLK Bennett belt, £110

Fat Face jumper, £48

SHINE ON: Delicate draping and subtle shimmer take the pastel trend from day to evening. By Malene Birger maxi, £670, Harvey Nichols.

BOSS Black tote, £499

LK Bennett wedges, £165 BOSS Black shoes, £259

LK Bennett clutch, £175

Marc by Marc Jacobs leather hobo, £375, Harvey Nichols

T by Alexander Wang tunic, £195, Harvey Nichols

Burberry Body EDP from £55, Harvey Nichols IC

E Q

UE

EN

BOSS BLACK


10

GO

LDE

N G

LOW

� ese exquisite shoes and handbags, all from Daniel Footwear, will dial up the decadence on any look, from daytime denim to evening tuxedos.

� ink subtle radiance rather than glittery gold and get your glow on.

ACCESSORIES TAKE ON A SUBTLE SHEEN, IN MOLTEN GOLD AND VINTAGE SILVER.

Michael Kors bronze clutch, £170

Michael Kors tote, £280

Michael Kors pumps, £150

Daniel Howell silver wedges, £94.99

Ash Virgon gold trainers, £110

Michael Kors ballerinas in silver or gold (below), £115

Daniel Zanze leather wedges, £155

Michael Kors pumps, £150

Michael Kors in silver or gold (below), £115


11

In clean palettes and simple shapes, this is the only way to rock spring’s most sensational trend. Detailing stays minimal to

let the hot hues make their own style statement.

AT

DROP A COLOUR BOMB, AS BOLD SHADES EXPLODE ONTO THE FASHION AGENDA.

DKNY

Alice + Olivia dress, £160

Marc by Marc Jacobs logo scarf, £95

Alice + Olivia silk trousers, £170

Cambridge Satchel Company bag, £115

McQ draped jersey T-shirt, £105

Jimmy Choo sandals, £425

CAPPED OFF: Seventies super-trend cap sleeves will win you extra style points this season. Finders Keepers dress, £125.

Jimmy Choo neon clutch, £375

Marc by Marc Jacobs icon bangle, £105

DKNY

NE

ON

BR

IGH

TS

Chloe Madeleine bag £1,370


11

In clean palettes and simple shapes, this is the only way to rock spring’s most sensational trend. Detailing stays minimal to

let the hot hues make their own style statement.

AT

DROP A COLOUR BOMB, AS BOLD SHADES EXPLODE ONTO THE FASHION AGENDA.

DKNY

Alice + Olivia dress, £160

Marc by Marc Jacobs logo scarf, £95

Alice + Olivia silk trousers, £170

Cambridge Satchel Company bag, £115

McQ draped jersey T-shirt, £105

Jimmy Choo sandals, £425

CAPPED OFF: Seventies super-trend cap sleeves will win you extra style points this season. Finders Keepers dress, £125.

Jimmy Choo neon clutch, £375

Marc by Marc Jacobs icon bangle, £105

DKNY

NE

ON

BR

IGH

TS

Chloe Madeleine bag £1,370


12

F A N C Y F O O T W O R K

NEW SPRING SHOES ARE ALL ABOUT BOLD DETA I L , WI TH RI CH HUES, TEXTURE, RI BBON S A N D

TIES PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT FORWA RD

1.

5.

2.

6.

3.

7.

4.

8.

WE LOVE WEDGES: For added style kudos, rock this season’s biggest footwear trend with the edgy wedge. Here’s our pick of the best from Harvey Nichols.

1 Zig-zag £129, Daniel Footwear 2 Monochrome £529, Emporio Armani 3 Courts £195, AllSaints

4 Raffi a £195, LK Bennett 5 Kitten heel, £175, LK Bennett 6 Michael Kors wedges £150, Daniel Footwear

7 Peep toe, £195, LK Bennett 8 Green heels £399, BOSS Black

From left to right: Jeffrey Campbell ankle boots, £110, Alexander McQueen espadrille, £345, Jeffrey Campbell neon, £80, Christian Louboutin leopard-print, £475


13

AT

g r o w n - u p g L A M o u r

1: Gucci platform pumps, £400 2: Alexander Wang leather duffle bag, £685 3: Alexander McQueen pendant, £245

4: Mulberry Evalina hobo, £795 5: Marco Bicego Paradise bracelet, £855 6: Jimmy Choo neon courts, £335

7: Mulberry iPhone case, £70, and strawberry key ring, £60 8: Prada print sunglasses, £180 9: Jimmy Choo tote bag, £1,995

S P R I N G A C C E S S O R I E S A R E A N E X P L O S I O N O F Z E S T Y C O L O U R , M I X I N G H O T H E E L S

W I T H L E AT H E R I N S U P E R - L U X U R I O U S T E X T U R E S O F P E B B L E A N D PAT E N T

1.

4.

5.

7.

3.

6.

2.

9.

8.


13

AT

g r o w n - u p g L A M o u r

1: Gucci platform pumps, £400 2: Alexander Wang leather duffle bag, £685 3: Alexander McQueen pendant, £245

4: Mulberry Evalina hobo, £795 5: Marco Bicego Paradise bracelet, £855 6: Jimmy Choo neon courts, £335

7: Mulberry iPhone case, £70, and strawberry key ring, £60 8: Prada print sunglasses, £180 9: Jimmy Choo tote bag, £1,995

S P R I N G A C C E S S O R I E S A R E A N E X P L O S I O N O F Z E S T Y C O L O U R , M I X I N G H O T H E E L S

W I T H L E AT H E R I N S U P E R - L U X U R I O U S T E X T U R E S O F P E B B L E A N D PAT E N T

1.

4.

5.

7.

3.

6.

2.

9.

8.

14

S N E A K P E E K

U N D E R C O V E R S T O RY

STYLE I CON A N D MUSI C SUPERSTA R

RIHANN A HA S SI GN ED ON TO FRON T

THE AMA Z I N G N EW SPRI N G/SUMMER ’ 12

COLLECTI ON S FROM EMPORI O A RMA N I

UNDERWEA R A N D A RMA N I J EA N S

THE STUNNING ARMANI CAMPAIGN FEATURING RIHANNA WAS SHOT

IN DUBLIN BY PHOTOGRAPHERS-OF-THE-MOMENT MERT ALAS AND

MARCUS PIGGOTT, WHO COUNT VOGUE AMONG THEIR CREDITS. THE DUO

PHOTOGRAPHED VICTORIA BECKHAM FOR HER SENSATIONAL

EMPORIO ARMANI UNDERWEAR CAMPAIGN IN 2009Camisole £120 and briefs £45; denim biker jacket £203 and stripe shorts £138;

t-shirt £59 and jeans £162; balconette bra £36 and briefs £21


15

� is season’s powerful prints pep up dresses, jackets and accessories, adding a new edge to your wardrobe. Team monochrome

stripes, graphics and batik patterns with on-trend greens for a look that’s runway-ready.

AT

BOLD PATTERN MEETS COOL STRIPES AND TRIBAL PRINTS FOR AN EXPLOSION OF ATTITUDE.

Gucci

Butter London nail polish, £12 WRAP AROUND: Body-

con and beautiful, this dress will quickly become a forever piece in your wardrobe. DKNY scarf print dress, £310

Alice + Olivia open back stripe dress, £255

M Missoni jacket, £540

Diane von Furstenberg retro print dress, £340

By Malene Birger belted trousers, £145

Jeffrey Campbell tribal slipper shoes, £70

Stila eye shadow compact, £12

Lara Bohinc Apollo ring, £205 P

RIN

T W

OR

KS

Gucci

Body-con and beautiful, this dress will quickly become a forever piece in your

PR

INT

WO

RK

S

16


C H R I S T I A N L O U B O U T I N

asteroid platform pump, £945

17


C H R I S T I A N L O U B O U T I NK i n g o f t h e f a m o u s r e d s o l e s , M r L o u b o u t i n h a s b e c o m e a s t y l e l e g e n d . H e r e , t h e

w o r l d ’ s m o s t f a m o u s s h o e d e s i g n e r m u s e s o n h i s 2 0 y e a r s i n f a s h i o n

AT

leopard print high tops, £675

crystal peep toe heels, £2395 hyper prive peep toe heels, £525

black and gold high tops, £675

leopard print spike heels, £735

His creations are as desirable as a diamond necklace, wHetHer tHey're skyscraper Heels or winter boots. now simply iconic, cHristian louboutin sHoes, witH tHeir signature glossy red sole, grace tHe feet of Hollywood royalty, and Have become objects of desire for

fasHionistas all over tHe globe.

How has the fashion industry changed during your career?Over the last 20 years shoe designing has changed and this is pretty obvious when it comes to

proportions. I look back at my first pair of heels and people considered them to be very high. When I look at them now, they are more like a mid heel. Today, the height and proportions are more extreme. I have been doing 16cm (6.3 inch) heels for a while and they could definitely get higher next season.

Which do you regard as your most iconic shoes?If I had to say which were the most iconic shoes of my collections, I would hesitate between a peep-toe Very Privé with an inset platform and straight heel, and the Pigalle.

When you launched, your mission statement was "to make shoes that are like jewels".If you look at jewellery, even if you know jewellery very well, you would never say a piece is autumn/winter. It does not follow fashion. I design shoes in the same way. I

am not thinking in terms of short fashion periods.

You now design a men’s collection too. Do you approach this in a different way to designing for women?Designing men’s shoes is completely different – basically it’s a different job. Women can be naked apart from their shoes and they do not look odd. With men, a shoe is not playing on posture or the position of the body. It’s not playing with the body language. It plays less with attitude in general.

Christian Louboutin’s new season shoe collections for men and women are available in store at Harvey Nichols now along with a selection of his accessories range, including handbags and striking iPad cases.


18

o n y o u r W I S H L I S TW E L O V E , W E WA N T, W E N E E D T H E S E S U R E - F I R E B E S T S E L L E R S F R O M

T H E S P R I N G C O L L E C T I O N S N O W A R R I V I N G I N S T O R E

1. Lizzy maxi, £48, Fat Face 2. Crocus tote, £245, LK Bennett 3. Denim midi, £40, Fat Face

4. Christian Louboutin iPhone case, £475, Harvey Nichols 5. Lapislazzuli jumpsuit by Pinko, £240, Harvey Nichols

6. Symphony dress, £110, AllSaints 7. Ash sneakers, £140, Harvey Nichols 8. Beach cover-up, £125, LK Bennett

9. Bag, £899, BoSS Black 10. This Company’s Kinski, £86, Harvey Nichols

1.2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

19

d r e s s f o r

Bustier, £475, M

cQ; jeans, £310, G

oldsiGn; sunGlasses, £190, M

iu M

iu, all H

arvey n

icHols

S P R I N G F E V E RF a s h i o n ’ s i n l o v e w i t h ‘ 5 0 s f e m i n i n i t y ,

a s i c e - c r e a m s h a d e s , C a p r i p a n t s , b u s t i e r s a n d p r o m d r e s s e s

g e t a m o d e r n m a k e o v e r

19

d r e s s f o r

Bustier, £475, M

cQ; jeans, £310, G

oldsiGn; sunGlasses, £190, M

iu M

iu, all H

arvey n

icHols

S P R I N G F E V E RF a s h i o n ’ s i n l o v e w i t h ‘ 5 0 s f e m i n i n i t y ,

a s i c e - c r e a m s h a d e s , C a p r i p a n t s , b u s t i e r s a n d p r o m d r e s s e s

g e t a m o d e r n m a k e o v e r

20

BaBy F

ull skirt dress, £1,230, a

cne, H

arvey n

icHols

21

Tank, £110, W

esTon; jeans, £165, aG j

eans; shoes, £275, M

cQ, all h

arvey n

ichols


22

R E T R O B E A U T YO L D - S C H O O L G L A M O U R G E T S A N E W S E A S O N U P D AT E A S F E L I N E F L I C K S T E A M

W I T H N E O N L I P S

2

4

3

1

1: The perfecT base: Even out imperfections with the innovative Stay All Day 10-in-1 HD Beauty Balm from Stila, £26. Team with Sue Devitt whipped foundation, £32, and Trish McEvoy Eye Base Essentials, £21, for a photo-ready finish.

2: The eyes have iT: Start with a neutral base – we love the soft shimmering gold of Dr Hauschka 01 eye shadow, £13. For the flick, draw a line using Stila waterproof liquid liner,

£13, above your lashes and angle towards your

brow as you come to the outer edge of your eye.

Finish off with Eyeko curvy brush mascara,

£15, for doll-like lashes.

3: The cheek of iT: Go for subtle

colouring across the apple of your cheek as a

highlighter – Benefit’s cult Benetint, £22.50,

and Per-Fekt Cheek Perfection Gel, £25, give

you that barely there look.

4: pucker up: Apply your foundation across

your lips before drawing an outline with Sue

Devitt Long Lasting Lip Liner, £16. MAC's

bestselling Morange lipstick, £13.50, is perfect

for statement neon lips. Team with the new

Plushglass lipgloss in Confetti, £16.50, also

from MAC. Blot with a tissue and reapply for a

long-lasting finish.

• ALL AVAILABLE AT HARVEY NICHOLS

ATT H E M A I L B O X M A G A Z I N E

23

L A Y E R S O F S T Y L E

GET THE LOOK

EFFORTLESSLY FEMININE, SPRING'S HOTTEST HAIR TREND COULDN'T BE MORE DIFFERENT TO THE PRISTINE PERFECTION OF AUTUMN/WINTER'S EDGY LOOKS. THINK PURE, ORGANIC STYLES, SEXY, MUSSED-UP LAYERS AND PLENTY OF TEXTURE.

Toni & Guy Essensuals recommend layers that work with the natural fall of the hair for a lived-in look and ‘bedhead’ texture: easy to wear and perfect for spring’s new breezy, colourful fashion. Layers on shorter styles are kept slightly longer through the top sections and slice-cut to keep hair feeling loose and looking youthful.

A mirror sheen is essential, so keep hair healthy with a professionally prescribed shampoo and conditioning routine. Ask your stylist for advice, or try label.m Organic Moisturising Orange Blossom or

Lemongrass Shampoo £13.75 and Conditioner £17.75, and fi nish with a spritz of label.m Sea Salt Spray £12.25 and Protein Spray £12.25 to create perfect air-dried LA surfer-girl waves.

“As for spring/summer colour,” says Sally Harrison, Creative

Director of Essensuals in � e Mailbox, “blonde shades go creamy and dreamy, with panels of soft peach, pink and a wonderfully wearable spun gold for a natural whisper of colour. For brunettes, it’s all about warm shades. Tonal reds in rich russet and terracotta are worked through the mid-lengths and ends, adding a shimmering detail.”

Bring your colour up to date in one salon visit. “Try our Colour Toners”, recommends Sally. “� ey’re purse-friendly and update your style in an instant. With catwalk hairstyles so wearable this spring, there’s a real focus on

natural texture and movement. We’re really excited for the new trends to hit!”

GET THE LOOK

Hair sponsors of London Fashion Week,

Toni & Guy set the style agenda. Recreate

one of this season’s coolest catwalk

looks, the Hot Cross Bun, crafted by

International Artistic Director Indira

Schauwecker. This intricate horizontal

chignon is easier than it looks. “I side-

parted the hair for a vintage 1940s feel

and placed it into a low ponytail. Dividing

it into two sections, I then tightly twisted

them until they coiled and intertwined.

Pin underneath to secure".

MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS:

LABEL.M VOLUME MOUSSE

£11.50 AND LABEL.M

HAIRSPRAY SPRAY £10.95.

� e label.m product range is available in salon.

N E W S E A S O N H A I R I S A L L A B O U T N A T U R A L M O V E M E N T A N D L U S C I O U S L A Y E R S ,

S A Y S T O N I & G U Y E S S E N S U A L S

A mirror sheen is essential, so keep hair healthy with a professionally

conditioning routine. Ask your stylist for advice, or try label.m

Spray £12.25 to create perfect air-dried LA surfer-girl waves.



23

L A Y E R S O F S T Y L E

GET THE LOOK

EFFORTLESSLY FEMININE, SPRING'S HOTTEST HAIR TREND COULDN'T BE MORE DIFFERENT TO THE PRISTINE PERFECTION OF AUTUMN/WINTER'S EDGY LOOKS. THINK PURE, ORGANIC STYLES, SEXY, MUSSED-UP LAYERS AND PLENTY OF TEXTURE.

Toni & Guy Essensuals recommend layers that work with the natural fall of the hair for a lived-in look and ‘bedhead’ texture: easy to wear and perfect for spring’s new breezy, colourful fashion. Layers on shorter styles are kept slightly longer through the top sections and slice-cut to keep hair feeling loose and looking youthful.

A mirror sheen is essential, so keep hair healthy with a professionally prescribed shampoo and conditioning routine. Ask your stylist for advice, or try label.m Organic Moisturising Orange Blossom or

Lemongrass Shampoo £13.75 and Conditioner £17.75, and fi nish with a spritz of label.m Sea Salt Spray £12.25 and Protein Spray £12.25 to create perfect air-dried LA surfer-girl waves.


Director of Essensuals in � e Mailbox, “blonde shades go creamy and dreamy, with panels of soft peach, pink and a wonderfully wearable spun gold for a natural whisper of colour. For brunettes, it’s all about warm shades. Tonal reds in rich russet and terracotta are worked through the mid-lengths and ends, adding a shimmering detail.”

Bring your colour up to date in one salon visit. “Try our Colour Toners”, recommends Sally. “� ey’re purse-friendly and update your style in an instant. With catwalk hairstyles so wearable this spring, there’s a real focus on

natural texture and movement. We’re really excited for the new trends to hit!”

GET THE LOOK

Hair sponsors of London Fashion Week,

Toni & Guy set the style agenda. Recreate

one of this season’s coolest catwalk

looks, the Hot Cross Bun, crafted by

International Artistic Director Indira

Schauwecker. This intricate horizontal

chignon is easier than it looks. “I side-

parted the hair for a vintage 1940s feel

and placed it into a low ponytail. Dividing

it into two sections, I then tightly twisted

them until they coiled and intertwined.

Pin underneath to secure".

MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS:

LABEL.M VOLUME MOUSSE

£11.50 AND LABEL.M

HAIRSPRAY SPRAY £10.95.

� e label.m product range is available in salon.

N E W S E A S O N H A I R I S A L L A B O U T N A T U R A L M O V E M E N T A N D L U S C I O U S L A Y E R S ,

S A Y S T O N I & G U Y E S S E N S U A L S

A mirror sheen is essential, so keep hair healthy with a professionally

conditioning routine. Ask your stylist for advice, or try label.m

Spray £12.25 to create perfect air-dried LA surfer-girl waves.



24

T O P T R E S S E S

1. A tight up-do or ponytail – one of spring’s biggest trends, as seen on the runways at Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Erdem and Helmut Lang - will give you a mini facelift! It really works and looks incredibly striking.

2. Want to add real body and fullness to your hair? Then invest in the right tools. Velcro rollers or hot rollers are best.

3. Big hair is a key spring look. Whilst blast-drying your hair, for more fullness, remove the nozzle and direct the dryer towards the roots whilst lifting hair away. If you’re going for the sleek and chic look though, use a nozzle to follow the shape of your head and move your hair around with a comb.

4. For a little fullness that looks more natural than teasing and back-combing, mist hairspray

on your fingertips and massage in a circular motion directly onto your scalp. Great for creating mini-beehives, as seen on Cheryl

Cole and Adele.

5. Work the ‘fashion princess’ look.

Tuck your hair into a high collar or scarf,

especially with really dressed-up clothes.

It gives the look a feeling of ease.

Make it even sexier by adding a bit of lift at the crown.

You don’t have to resort to a hat on hols or at a festival: here’s how to keep your hair looking fabulous. “� e night before, give your hair a good wash (try Nicky Clarke Moisture Shampoo £13, and Moisture Conditioner £16) and use an intense moisturising conditioner, such as Nicky Clarke Intensive Moisture Mask, £22, which has Moringa oil to tackle frizz” says Warren. “Use a good foundation product when your hair’s still wet, like a strong holding mousse. Next, tong your tresses so they have movement and shape: the bigger the better, as you’ll have days for it to drop. When your style starts to fl ag, try dry shampoo to replenish hair and make it feel fresher. It adds great texture and volume at the roots which is ideal when hair gets greasy.”

* ALL PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AT THE

NICKY CLARKE SALON IN THE MAILBOX

You don’t have to resort

keep your hair looking

£16) and use an intense moisturising conditioner, such as Nicky Clarke Intensive Moisture Mask, £22, which has Moringa oil to tackle frizz” says Warren. “Use a good foundation product when your hair’s still wet, like a strong holding mousse. Next, tong your tresses so they have movement and shape: the bigger the better, as you’ll have days for it to drop. When your style starts to fl ag, try dry shampoo to replenish hair and make it feel fresher. It adds

WA N T A L U X E L O O K F O R S P R I N G ? T RY T H E S E E X P E RT I D E A S F R O M WA R R E N

H O L M E S , I N T E R N AT I O N A L C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R AT N I C K Y C L A R K E

HOLIDAY HAIR

You don’t have to resort to a hat on hols or at a festival: here’s how to keep your hair looking fabulous. “� e night before, give your hair

Shampoo £13, and Moisture Conditioner £16) and use an intense moisturising conditioner, such as Nicky Clarke Intensive Moisture Mask, £22, which has Moringa oil to tackle frizz” says Warren. “Use a good foundation

before, give your hair a good wash (try Nicky Clarke Moisture

Warren. “Use a good foundation product when your hair’s still wet, like a strong holding mousse. Next, tong your tresses so they have movement and shape: the bigger the better, as you’ll have days for it to drop. When your style starts to fl ag, try dry shampoo to replenish hair and make it feel fresher. It adds great texture and volume at the roots which is ideal when hair gets greasy.”

NICKY CLARKE SALON IN THE MAILBOX

Warren. “Use a good foundation product when your hair’s still wet, like a strong holding mousse. Next,


25

S P R I N G S P A N E W S

N O W T H A T S P R I N G ’ S A R R I V E D , W H Y N O T C E L E B R A T E W I T H A L I T T L E P A M P E R I N G A T

L E P E T I T S P A I N M A L M A I S O N ?

� e gorgeous Le Petit Spa is a haven, tucked away from the hub of city life. With a full range of treatments, from facials and body wraps, to massages, pedicures and spray tanning, Le Petit Spa has all you need to perk up from winter hibernation, and prepare your body for summer fashion.

“Many of us are looking to drop a few pounds or tackle wintery dry skin at this time of year,” says Gemma Round, Group Spa Manager at Malmaison’s Le Petit

Spa. “You could try a gentle detox: drinking more water, eating well, taking some light exercise and avoiding toxins.” It’s also time to think about discarding those layers

for summer. Gemma advises daily dry body-brushing as well as exfoliation. “We build exfoliation into the majority of our treatments as it’s so benefi cial. It sloughs away dead skin cells, and makes serums, oils and moisturisers more effective” advises Gemma.

If you feel in need of a boost, book a consultation with a therapist at Le Petit Spa. As Gemma says, “It’s a great way for us to fi nd out your particular needs. An energising treatment, such as a body wrap, massage or anti-cellulite scrub will work wonders on your wellbeing.”

� ere are plenty of new season offers on spa days and treatments, so book now so you can look and feel your best for spring. E S P A E V E N T I N

L E P E T I T S P A

� ursday April 19, 6pm - 8:30pm

Le Petit Spa is holding a series of

events throughout the course of the

year to showcase its new ESPA and

Jessica product range and treatments.

Join in for a glass of fi zz, some

yummy canapés, demonstrations

and advice from ESPA experts. You

can also take a nosey around the

facilities and kick back and relax as

the spa therapists will be on hand to

offer a complimentary fi le and polish

and hand and arm massages. � at's

Mal life.

D E L U X E D E T O X

Limited Edition ESPA Skin Solution

Facial, £75 per person

• 1 hour limited edition Skin Solution

Facial. Choose from: Lift and fi rm

for visibly youthful skin, age-defying

for beautifully rejuvenated skin, skin

radiance for noticeably brighter skin,

or intense hydration for revitalised,

healthy skin.

• Plus a Personal Skincare Solutions

Set worth £40-£55 (saving up to £35)

(Monday to Friday only from until March 31

2012. Not to be used in conjunction with any

other offer. Subject to availability)

T O T A L D E L U X E D E T O X

£65 per person

• Full body brush

• Full body exfoliation

• Detox algae body wrap

• Scalp massage

• Half body detoxifying massage

• Robes and slippers

• Use of facilities

(Subject to availability. Not available in

conjunction with any other promotion. Valid until

March 31 2012. Terms and conditions apply)

P A M P E R Y O U R S E L F

Total holistic body care, £75

Feel like a new woman in an hour and a half: full body skin brushing and exfoliation prepare skin for a luxurious body massage, followed by an aromatherapy facial using essential oils. To fi nish, an Oriental head massage helps clears your mind.

* To book any of these treatments, contact Le Petit Spa on 0121 246 5008 or email [email protected]

26


T H E M A I L B O X S P R I N G D I A R YM U S T - S E E E V E N T S , D A T E S F O R Y O U R D I A R Y A N D A C O M P E T I T I O N Y O U W O N ’ T W A N T T O M I S S

If you thought 2011 was an exciting year at � e Mailbox, you’re going to love our jam-packed diary for 2012. From free Zumba classes in the heart of � e Mailbox (and a massive outdoor Zumbathon on March 31) to avant-garde art installations, concerts and big screens showing spectacular events, you won’t want to be anywhere else this spring and summer.

Our exclusive shops and amazing eateries have been busy planning too. Many of our restaurants have updated menus and new season special deals on offer right

now. Check out the sophisticated new look at recently refurbished Bar Room Bar and Red Peppers, or stop by the new Harvey Nichols Espresso Café or Champagne Bar for a break in your shopping schedule. March 28, 29 and 30 is Taste of e Mailbox, when Côte and several of our other restaurants will venture out into the mall to offer free tasters to shoppers: check out our website for details.

Also at Harvey Nichols, the lovely Beauty Studio has some great events coming up. Make a note of Friday April 13 and Saturday April 14, when you can learn the latest makeup, fragrance and skincare trends from the expert staff, indulge in complimentary treatments

and invest in the latest beauty miracle-workers from the likes of Stila, MAC, Crème de la Mer, Sue Devitt, Space NK and Benefi t.

We know you’ll want to explore the fabulous Malmaison Farmer’s Markets, held in � e Mailbox on April 25 (and again on October 17), from 12noon to 3pm, showcasing local produce and seasonal ingredients. Another date to look forward to: � e Mailbox will play host to several live bands during the Jazz Festival from July 6 to 15. Keep an eye on our website at www.mailboxlife.com as we’ll be updating it with details of who to see and when.

Excitingly, we’ve collaborated with both the artists of Birmingham City University Design School and the prestigious City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, for concerts, exhibitions and performances

inside � e Mailbox. Our website will have all the information, so bookmark it now. Doing that will also give you the chance to see our new online fashion magazine, complete with all the latest S/S ’12 trends and ideas of what to wear - and where to buy it – from now right through summer and holiday season.

New to � e Mailbox but fast becoming a favourite is the delightful NH Flowers on Level 3. A clever fl orist that specialises in beautiful blooms, it’s got plenty of other charming surprises too, including antique

furniture, embroidered silk cushions, handcrafted cards, exquisite glassware and unusual gifts: all available to buy! Creative Director Jamie Price is available for consultations for your home, your wedding or any special occasion, too, so you can make 2012 a fl ower-fi lled year.

Finally, why not complete your Mailbox visit by having your car professionally

valeted while you shop and relax? Our H20 Car Valeting Centre includes webcams to allow clients to watch their car being valeted, complimentary bike hire in the summer months, free newspapers and even surprise gifts left in clients' cars.

W I N A £ 1 2 5 G I F T V O U C H E R F O R C Ô T E B R A S S E R I E We love Côte for its fresh take on

timeless French dishes, and it’s the

perfect spot for everything from a

breakfast business meeting or mid-

morning coffee to leisurely lunch.

Now you can try it for yourself, FREE.

Côte is offering one lucky reader

a £125 gift voucher to spend in its

Mailbox restaurant. To be in with a

chance, simply visit www.mailboxlife.com/springcote or scan the QR code, answer a few simple questions and hope for success!

• Terms and conditions apply: full details

online. Closing date: Friday June 29 2012.

Côte Brasserie120-122 Wharfside Street, � e Mailbox0121 631 1587

26


T H E M A I L B O X S P R I N G D I A R YM U S T - S E E E V E N T S , D A T E S F O R Y O U R D I A R Y A N D A C O M P E T I T I O N Y O U W O N ’ T W A N T T O M I S S

If you thought 2011 was an exciting year at � e Mailbox, you’re going to love our jam-packed diary for 2012. From free Zumba classes in the heart of � e Mailbox (and a massive outdoor Zumbathon on March 31) to avant-garde art installations, concerts and big screens showing spectacular events, you won’t want to be anywhere else this spring and summer.

Our exclusive shops and amazing eateries have been busy planning too. Many of our restaurants have updated menus and new season special deals on offer right

now. Check out the sophisticated new look at recently refurbished Bar Room Bar and Red Peppers, or stop by the new Harvey Nichols Espresso Café or Champagne Bar for a break in your shopping schedule. March 28, 29 and 30 is Taste of e Mailbox, when Côte and several of our other restaurants will venture out into the mall to offer free tasters to shoppers: check out our website for details.

Also at Harvey Nichols, the lovely Beauty Studio has some great events coming up. Make a note of Friday April 13 and Saturday April 14, when you can learn the latest makeup, fragrance and skincare trends from the expert staff, indulge in complimentary treatments

and invest in the latest beauty miracle-workers from the likes of Stila, MAC, Crème de la Mer, Sue Devitt, Space NK and Benefi t.

We know you’ll want to explore the fabulous Malmaison Farmer’s Markets, held in � e Mailbox on April 25 (and again on October 17), from 12noon to 3pm, showcasing local produce and seasonal ingredients. Another date to look forward to: � e Mailbox will play host to several live bands during the Jazz Festival from July 6 to 15. Keep an eye on our website at www.mailboxlife.com as we’ll be updating it with details of who to see and when.

Excitingly, we’ve collaborated with both the artists of Birmingham City University Design School and the prestigious City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, for concerts, exhibitions and performances

inside � e Mailbox. Our website will have all the information, so bookmark it now. Doing that will also give you the chance to see our new online fashion magazine, complete with all the latest S/S ’12 trends and ideas of what to wear - and where to buy it – from now right through summer and holiday season.

New to � e Mailbox but fast becoming a favourite is the delightful NH Flowers on Level 3. A clever fl orist that specialises in beautiful blooms, it’s got plenty of other charming surprises too, including antique

furniture, embroidered silk cushions, handcrafted cards, exquisite glassware and unusual gifts: all available to buy! Creative Director Jamie Price is available for consultations for your home, your wedding or any special occasion, too, so you can make 2012 a fl ower-fi lled year.

Finally, why not complete your Mailbox visit by having your car professionally

valeted while you shop and relax? Our H20 Car Valeting Centre includes webcams to allow clients to watch their car being valeted, complimentary bike hire in the summer months, free newspapers and even surprise gifts left in clients' cars.

W I N A £ 1 2 5 G I F T V O U C H E R F O R C Ô T E B R A S S E R I E We love Côte for its fresh take on

timeless French dishes, and it’s the

perfect spot for everything from a

breakfast business meeting or mid-

morning coffee to leisurely lunch.

Now you can try it for yourself, FREE.

Côte is offering one lucky reader

a £125 gift voucher to spend in its

Mailbox restaurant. To be in with a

chance, simply visit www.mailboxlife.com/springcote or scan the QR code, answer a few simple questions and hope for success!

• Terms and conditions apply: full details

online. Closing date: Friday June 29 2012.

Côte Brasserie120-122 Wharfside Street, � e Mailbox0121 631 1587

27


Fashion falls into a blue funk for spring, as cool and classic shades

of navy , teal , cornflower and cerulean blue flood the palette.

Invest in basics to work the blue trend: accents of denim, white, tan

leather and faded dove grey will turn your blue mood into a timeless

capsule wardrobe. Highlights? Check out the new season accessories

at Fat Face and invest in a set of statement luggage from Gieves &

Hawkes. Emporio Armani focuses on fitness with the style-led new EA7

sportswear line, while Hugo Boss sails the nautical trend with clean-

lined separates and boat shoes. Accessories are to the fore at

Harvey Nichols, with sleek new collections from ToyWatch ,

Paul Smith , J immy Choo and more.

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 2

M E N

your spring/summer shopping list starts here:

page 28.

page 29.

page 32.

page 33.

page 31.


28

EASILY SUEDE

SHADES

OF BLUE

A nod to the 70s

revival, suede shirts are

back on the style agenda,

but this time, they’re

ultra-soft and cut close

to the body. Team with

a simple white tee and

jeans for maximum cool.

Henninger shirt, £195,

AllSaints.

M E N ’ S A G E N D A S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 2

CHOO GOOD

thinking of investing

in a leather jacket for spring?

There’s only one colour right

now, and that’s blue, thanks

to Armani updating the

wardrobe staple in shades of

cobalt, navy and aquamarine.

Check out the selection

arriving in store now.

SUIT UPgieves & hAwkes

may be known for its

impeccable suiting, but

the 2012 spring separates

are sharply cut and classic

this year. This double-

breasted blue blazer,

£800, is an investment

piece: add the trousers

£200, shirt £145, tie £85

and brogues £425 for a

failsafe look.

hArvey nichols hAs lAunched An

exclusive selection of men’s sneakers and

hi-tops by accessories giant Jimmy Choo.

Combining British style with impeccable

Italian craftsmanship, the range is priced

from £475, and sits alongside new season

collections from Christian Louboutin,

Moncler, Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander

McQueen and Paul Smith.


28

EASILY SUEDE

SHADES

OF BLUE

A nod to the 70s

revival, suede shirts are

back on the style agenda,

but this time, they’re

ultra-soft and cut close

to the body. Team with

a simple white tee and

jeans for maximum cool.

Henninger shirt, £195,

AllSaints.


CHOO GOOD

thinking of investing

in a leather jacket for spring?

There’s only one colour right

now, and that’s blue, thanks

to Armani updating the

wardrobe staple in shades of

cobalt, navy and aquamarine.

Check out the selection

arriving in store now.

SUIT UPgieves & hAwkes

may be known for its

impeccable suiting, but

the 2012 spring separates

are sharply cut and classic

this year. This double-

breasted blue blazer,

£800, is an investment

piece: add the trousers

£200, shirt £145, tie £85

and brogues £425 for a

failsafe look.

hArvey nichols hAs lAunched An

exclusive selection of men’s sneakers and

hi-tops by accessories giant Jimmy Choo.

Combining British style with impeccable

Italian craftsmanship, the range is priced

from £475, and sits alongside new season

collections from Christian Louboutin,

Moncler, Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander

McQueen and Paul Smith.


29

SCREEN STAR

SWITCH THINGS UP, WITH THIS statement weekender bag in unusual

coral leather, £655, by BOSS Black. With

a mesh detail and shoulder strap, it’s a

stand-out piece.

TAKEAWAY


MUST-HAVE

VERSATILE, TIMELESS

and reliable, the trench

coat is the hero of the

new Thomas Pink spring

collection. This version,

£599, has a neat silhouette,

thanks to fuss-free

detailing, minimal buttons

and a shorter length.

LAST SEASON'S SPORTS

luxe vibe has given way

to an altogether more

masculine mood in fashion

for the coming season.

Think denim, leather, and

heavy waxed canvas for

jackets: this inky blue range

jacket, £85 at Fat Face fits

the trend.

ON THE

RANGE

AS TELEVISION TECHNOLOGY continues to innovate

at a breakneck speed,

Bang & Olufsen’s sleek

BeoVision 7 range is on

every man’s wish-list.

With stunning clarity and

depth, this entertainment

system offers the lot: HD,

3D, integrated Blu-ray

and top-of-the-range

performance. From £12,210.

30

Jumper, £115, checked shirt, £115, chinos, £100, all p

olo r

alph l

auren at h

arvey n

ichols

Clean-lined and exClusive, spring's smart Casual is influenCed by old-sChool rules and a peppy pastel palette

COUNTRY CLUB


31

1. Breton knit, £48, Fat Face 2. Denim boot, £185, BOSS Black 3. Cardigan, £95, AllSaints 4. Denim shirt, £95, AllSaints

5. Striped shirt, from £125, Gieves & Hawkes 6. Handkerchief, £65, Gieves & Hawkes 7. Peace sign cuffl inks, £59, � omas Pink

8. Britannia cuffl inks, £99, � omas Pink 9. ToyWatch, £125, Harvey Nichols 10. Alexander McQueen mohair jacket, £775, Harvey Nichols

Antique denim meets washed grey cotton in a cool trend in casual-wear. Accent colours of white and

navy mix with classic stripes for a look that’s relaxed but fashion-forward.

SPRING'S COLOUR AESTHETIC IS STORMY GREY AND FADED BLUE: MUTED SHADES WITH A VINTAGE VIBE.

1

6

5

3

8 7

8

9

10

2

4

6

8

S T O R M B L U E


32

AT

A timeless palette of navy and tan mixes with classic cardigans, cotton chinos and boat shoes for a look that’s top of the class.

PREPPY AND REFINED WITH A CASUAL VIBE, COLLEGIATE COOL GETS A MODERN MAKEOVER FOR S/S '12.

DSquared2

DSquared2 shirt, £145

Paul Smith chinos, £75

Polo Ralph Lauren shawl collar cardigan, £150

Markus Lupfer Þ ne knit cardigan, £180 Paul Smith boat shoes, £180

BLUE MOOD: Silhouettes stay streamlined with slim-cut polo shirts in muted shades. Navy shirt, £190, Gucci.

DSquared2

WE

LL

PR

EP

PE

DDSquared2 T-shirt, £125

Mulberry Elkington satchel, £625

Diesel slim Þ t chinos, £120

Tom Ford aviator sunglasses, £233


32

AT

A timeless palette of navy and tan mixes with classic cardigans, cotton chinos and boat shoes for a look that’s top of the class.

PREPPY AND REFINED WITH A CASUAL VIBE, COLLEGIATE COOL GETS A MODERN MAKEOVER FOR S/S '12.

DSquared2

DSquared2 shirt, £145

Paul Smith chinos, £75

Polo Ralph Lauren shawl collar cardigan, £150

Markus Lupfer Þ ne knit cardigan, £180 Paul Smith boat shoes, £180

BLUE MOOD: Silhouettes stay streamlined with slim-cut polo shirts in muted shades. Navy shirt, £190, Gucci.

DSquared2

WE

LL

PR

EP

PE

DDSquared2 T-shirt, £125

Mulberry Elkington satchel, £625

Diesel slim Þ t chinos, £120

Tom Ford aviator sunglasses, £233


33

AT

a c c e s s o r i s e a l l a r e a s

1: Alexander McQueen leather trainers, £420 2: Alexander McQueen skull scarf, £165 3: Beats by Dr Dre headphones, £175

4: Gucci messenger, £660 5: Gucci classic trainers, £275 6: Marc by Marc Jacobs iPad case, £45 7: Marc by Marc Jacobs laptop cover, £65

8: Nixon Newton watch, £125 9: Paul Smith laptop case, £100

P O P S O F C O O L C O L O U R A D D A M O D E R N F E E L T O S P R I N G ’ S N E W

G E N E R AT I O N A C C E S S O R I E S

2.1.

4.

5.

6.

7. 8. 9.

3.


34

F R O M D E S I G N E R L U G G A G E T O I N V E S T M E N T A RT, T H E S E A R E T H E M U S T- B U Y S F O R Y O U R S / S ’ 1 2 S H O P P I N G L I S T

t h e m a i l b o x m o S t W a N t e D

Grand Canal by Neil Dawson, limited edition of 95 canvas on board, £595, Castle Galleries

Alexander McQueen t-shirt, £295, Harvey Nichols

Heels, £310, BOSS Black

Gold dress, £210, AllSaints

BeoSound 5 Encore digital music system, from £2,400, Bang & Olufsen

Travel bags in canvas and leather, from £600, Gieves & Hawkes

BeoCom 2 telephone, from £750, Bang & Olufsen

Brogues, £329, Emporio Armani

Sunglasses, £85, LK Bennett (available to order in store)


34

F R O M D E S I G N E R L U G G A G E T O I N V E S T M E N T A RT, T H E S E A R E T H E M U S T- B U Y S F O R Y O U R S / S ’ 1 2 S H O P P I N G L I S T


Grand Canal by Neil Dawson, limited edition of 95 canvas on board, £595, Castle Galleries

Alexander McQueen t-shirt, £295, Harvey Nichols

Heels, £310, BOSS Black

Gold dress, £210, AllSaints

BeoSound 5 Encore digital music system, from £2,400, Bang & Olufsen

Travel bags in canvas and leather, from £600, Gieves & Hawkes

BeoCom 2 telephone, from £750, Bang & Olufsen

Brogues, £329, Emporio Armani

Sunglasses, £85, LK Bennett (available to order in store)


35


Pretty Ballerinas, £119, Harvey Nichols

Just Cavalli maxi skirt, £430, Harvey Nichols

All for One by Craig Davison, limited edition of 95 canvas on board, £399, Castle Galleries

New Rayburn Electric, available in six colours, £3,995, The Aga Shop

Suede courts, £129, Daniel Footwear

Alhambra Palace and Entering the Hammam wallpaper, £50 per roll, Fired Earth

Montilla marble tiles, £159.96 per sq m, Fired Earth

Python clutch, £299, BOSS Black

Linen ties, from £85 each, Gieves & Hawkes

Breton stripe top, £48, Fat Face

D&G bag, £290, Daniel Footwear


36

M I C R O T R E N D SE F F O RT L E S S LY C O O L , H A RV E Y N I C H O L S N A M E S T H E H O T T E S T S P R I N G T R E N D S

w o m e n

ATTENTION TO DETAIL: Jeffrey Campbell black studded sandals, £190 GLOBAL TRAVELLER: Sass & Bide T-shirt, £140 FABULOUS FLORALS:

Talbot Runhof rose print dress, £995 SUMMER SEQUINS: Alice + Olivia sequin tunic, £290 CALL OF THE WILD: ACNE leopard print blouse, £220

OVERSIZED ACCESSORIES: G Shock lime green watch, £100 PAISLEY PRINT: Alexander McQueen paisley pashmina, £195 THE ICON T-SHIRT:

Dolce & Gabbana T-shirt, £145 HIGH TOPS: Moncler high top sneakers, £285 STATEMENT RED: Polo Ralph Lauren polo shirt, £75

m e n

AT


37

AT

WE LOVE!

AvAilAble exclusively in store, ohso chocolAte bArs, £3.95,

are not only clinically proven to be three times more

effective at delivering your daily probiotics than

a yoghurt drink, they are made from 53 per cent

delicious Belgian chocolate!

And at just 72 calories

a bar, they’re almost

guilt-free!

PICNIC IN STYLE

F O O D & D R I N K N E W S

KITCHEN MUST-HAVEFirst there wAs the bottle, chAnging the wAy we drink wAter on the go. now bobble hAs lAunched the Jug. With its striking

design, this highly functional

kitchen must-have not only

looks great but features the

famous activated carbon

filter that helps improve the

taste and quality of regular

tap water in an instant.

Available in six distinctive

colours, it costs £29.95.

Add An exciting touch to your spring cocktAils with these two new lAunches From chAse.

Choose from Sharp Bramley

Apple Vodka – limited to just

2,000 bottles worldwide – and

Smoked Vodka. Each is £45.

ideAl For those Al Fresco moments, this striking bloom gin hAmper is certAinly A lesson in elegAnce. It comes with a 70cl bottle of Bloom

Gin, a floral embossed G&T goblet

and a high quality reusable wicker

basket. Priced at £55, it’s perfect for

the poshest of picnics!

LIMITED EDITION


38

M A K E A D A T E W I T H M A L M A I S O NSTAY AT MALMAISON

Why not complete your special evening, date night or fi ne dining by booking an overnight stay at Malmaison? You could enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities at Le Petit Spa too, or book in for a revitalising treatment. To book Malmaison accommodation, packages or Brasserie, call 0121 246 5000 or email [email protected]. To book at Le Petit Spa, call 0121 246 5008 or email [email protected]


38

M A K E A D A T E W I T H M A L M A I S O NSTAY AT MALMAISON

Why not complete your special evening, date night or fi ne dining by booking an overnight stay at Malmaison? You could enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities at Le Petit Spa too, or book in for a revitalising treatment. To book Malmaison accommodation, packages or Brasserie, call 0121 246 5000 or email [email protected]. To book at Le Petit Spa, call 0121 246 5008 or email [email protected]


39

fem-ale appreciation societyThursday March 29, 6pM - 9pM

Head to Malmaison the week before Easter to welcome back Purity Brewing Co and award-winning beer writer, TV presenter and journalist Marverine Cole who will be co-hosting an evening of beer tasting with a difference. You may think that beer is just for the boys, but it’s a guarantee that this night of golden blondes, tall dark cold ones and the odd pint-sized beauty (of ale that is) will change your mind. Marverine creates a fascinating evening of beer for the discerning woman, complete with food, great company and fun.

• Tickets cost £25 per person and include five tapas-style courses created to complement the flavours of each beer. All fabulous females also get an amazing goodie bag to take away with them. To book call 0121 246 5005 or email [email protected]

M a k e a d a t e w i t h M a l M a i s o nI t ’ s a b u s y s p r i n g a t M a l m a i s o n , f r o m f i n e d i n i n g t o w i n e t a s t i n g . M a k e s p a c e i n

y o u r d i a r y f o r a l i t t l e M a l m a i s o n m a g i c : h e r e ’ s a s e l e c t i o n o f i d e a s t o t e m p t y o u

mother's daysunday March 18, 1pM - 4pM

Mum's the word at Malmaison this year. What better way to spoil your dear mother than by a little indulgent dining from the luscious Toast to the Roast menu? On Mothering Sunday, you and your family can tuck into two courses with half a bottle of wine each amidst the stylish surroundings of the Brasserie. She deserves to be spoiled: now you know how!

• Soup, Sunday roast and half a bottle of wine for £15 per person. Celebrate Mother's Day with a Toast to the Roast. Call the Malmaison Brasserie on 0121 246 5000 to book quoting ‘Mother's Day Toast to the Roast’.

european journey wine dinner with johnny walkerWednesday april 11, 6.30pM 'Til laTe

Here’s an opportunity to learn about wine and enjoy a fantastic evening into the bargain. Malmaison's director of wines and spirits Mr Johnny Walker will be hosting an evening celebrating European wines. Relaxed, informal and entertaining, the European Journey wine dinner is a chance to enjoy wonderful European wines matched with five delicious courses, whilst learning the story behind some of Johnny's favourite wines. Meet for aperitifs at 6.30pm to dine for 7pm.

• All wines served throughout the evening will be red and white. Cost: £45 per person. To book your space call 0121 246 5000 or email [email protected]

valdivieso wine dinner with carmen richardsTuesday May 8

Valdivieso winery in Chile crafts some of the New World’s finest wines and each year bags awards all over the globe for its stunning and innovative wine-making. Now you can learn more about the vineyard – and taste some of its bottles – at a special dinner with Valdivieso’s Carmen Richards. The Valdivieso wine dinner is a chance to experience these wonderful wines matched

with five delicious courses, as Carmen explains the story behind the wines from this region. The evening begins with aperitifs at 6.30pm, and dining from 7pm.

• Cost: £45 per person. To book your space call 0121 246 5000 or email [email protected]

steak night every Thursday froM 6.30pM all year round

Every Thursday is steak night at the Mal, where you can enjoy your choice from succulent, different cuts of steak, teamed with fries and sauce. The evening is run in conjunction with famous Scottish ‘Royal butcher’ Donald Russell using the finest cuts of meat sourced locally, and it’s all about celebrate the beauty of a great steak.

• Prices start from £9.95. Tables are subject to availability and should be booked in advance with the Malmaison brasserie by calling 0121 246 5000 or email [email protected]


40

E A T , D R I N K , R E L A X

Ready to eat? Head to elegant Café Rouge, perfect for a Parisian-style lunch, brunch or breakfast, or wind down with a gourmet snack in Caffe Gusto with its menu of freshly made delights. Kickstart a special evening with a drink in the ultra-chic Malmaison Bar, and stay for dinner in the Brasserie (turn to page 38 for the inside track on not-to-be-missed events at the Mal).

Wind down in the stylish surroundings of Côte (over the page you’ll find an amazing spring offer), and for fabulous food and a buzzing atmosphere, there’s nothing better than celebrity favourite Nando’s. Why not take the family to Gourmet Burger Kitchen where there are mouth-watering burgers to try, as well as salads, desserts and more.

Pennyblacks is an engaging bar serving delicious steaks and salads as well as platters perfect for sharing. This spring, there’s a fantastic weekday two-for-one deal on main courses too, making it brilliant value. Shogun and The Oriental are where you’ll find exquisite noodles, teppanyaki and Pan-Asian cuisine, when you fancy something different.

At Pizza Express, Zizzi and Strada you can

enjoy sumptuous Italian food, or check out the

recently re-designed Red Peppers. Now with

a much lighter and fresher look than before,

there’s funky booth seating on the ground

floor, vintage art

and even a life-size

Betty Boop in the

restroom!

Night out with

friends? Bar Epernay is an

elegant bar boasting

an extensive

Champagne

list and live

piano music.

You can also

dine here, from

a la carte, light

bites and daily specials menus, but we love the

Champagne afternoon tea, served every day from

3pm to 5pm, where you can indulge in a glass of

Champagne, selection of teas, sandwiches, and

freshly-baked scones with clotted cream and jam

for only £12.95 per person.

F R I d AY N I g H t C o C K tA I l , W e e K e N d B R u N C H , d I N N e R W I t H F R I e N d s , R o M A N t I C s u P P e R : W H At e v e R

t H e o C C A s I o N , Y o u ’ l l B e s P o I lt F o R C H o I C e At t H e M A I l B o x

N e w a t Z i z z i

InspIred by VenIce, ZIZZI' s new cIchettI range Is Italy' s answer to tapas

Zizzi has just launched a brand new Cichetti menu, a selection of bite-size dishes to mix and match, perfect for sharing with friends. try tasty combinations such as crispy polenta topped with beef ragu and aubergine baked with mozzarella and pesto.

Bar Estilo has a great range of cocktails, including classics such as mojito and margarita as well as specialities and a selection of sangrias to choose from. visit between 3pm and 7pm any Monday to Thursday and you can enjoy two cocktails for the price of one, and on Fridays celebrate the start of the weekend with half price house Champagne and cava from 3pm to 8pm.

Pennyblacks

Red Peppers

Bar Epernay


41

E A T , D R I N K , R E L A X

S T E A K S E C R E T SCarl Whitehead, head chef at Miller & Carter at

The Mailbox, shares his tips for the perfect steak

Before you start cooking, it is fi rstly important to buy a good quality piece of beef: at Miller & Carter we use only the very best West Country steaks, currently rated the world’s best. Next you need to make sure that you let the meat breathe for a while before cooking, allowing it to come to room temperature, which should take around 20 minutes.

Remember to season your steak well with good salt and pepper and give it a good coating of oil ready for the chargrill or frying pan. While doing so, heat up your grill pan to a high temperature and only start cooking once it has reached the optimum heat. � is initial part of the cooking process involves sealing the meat on all sides and plays an important role, blocking the pores of the meat and locking in all the fl avour.

� en, when cooked, be sure to let the steak rest - resting is just as important as cooking because it allows the meat to achieve a fuller fl avour and tenderness. If you forget to do this, you may end up with a large amount of blood on your dinner plate! Finally, serve on a hot plate to ensure your meal stays hotter, and more enjoyable for longer.

For more information on Miller & Carter, and to download a full menu, visit www.millerandcarter.co.uk or call 0121 643 7738.

2 chicken breasts sliced about 2-3 mm thick

2 tablespoons green curry paste

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

450 gram (approx) coconut milk

1 medium aubergine roughly diced

Handful sweet basil (keep some for garnish)

2 dessert spoons of palm sugar

2 dessert spoons of fi sh sauce

4 baby aubergines quartered (optional)

Stem of pea aubergines (optional)

Shredded red chilli to garnish

Baby coconut shell to serve in (optional)

I N G R E D I E N T S

T A S T E O F T H A I L A N DCELEBRATE THAI NEW YEAR AT THE ORIENTAL

� e Oriental Bar & Restaurant will be marking Songkran, the � ai New Year festival this April. With a focus on great food, wine, service and style, this elegant restaurant and bar brings together the best authentic dishes from Malaysia, � ailand, China and Japan. From April 13 to 15, you can explore a special Songkran menu, offering the best in � ai cuisine.

Head Chef Tuck Weng Lee (below) shares his recipe for � ai favourite, CHICKEN GREEN CURRY (GAENG KEOW WAAN GAI)

1. Boil some water in a wok and plunge the sliced chicken in for about thirty seconds, remove and drain. � en repeat with the aubergines and drain.

2. Empty and dry the wok before heating until very hot. Add the oil and stir fry the curry paste for a couple of minutes.

3. Add the coconut milk (apart from 1 dessert spoonful), palm sugar and the fi sh sauce and combine.

4. Add the chicken and aubergines and cook for a further three to four minutes until chicken cooked through. When cooked add the basil leaves, stir in and remove from heat.

5. Transfer to the coconut shell or an attractive bowl and garnish with a swirl of the remaining coconut milk, the basil leaves and the shredded chilli. Serve with steamed jasmine rice.

All of the ingredients are available from good Oriental supermarkets.


42

WITH ITS REPUTATION FOR LUXURY,

IT WAS NO SURPRISE WHEN HARVEY

NICHOLS RECENTLY OPENED TWO

EXCLUSIVE NEW PLACES TO REFRESH,

RECHARGE AND REFUEL.

Last autumn saw the launch of the Harvey Nichols Espresso Café in store at The Mailbox. Whether you want to take an hour out of your busy work day, enjoy a morning pick-me-up or sneak in a break from retail therapy, the Espresso Café is the ideal place

to chill out. Spend time flicking through the day's papers or your favourite magazines, chat with friends and enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.

With its focus strongly on great tasting, local food and drink, the menu features produce sourced wherever possible from the nearby counties of Shropshire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.

Also at Harvey Nichols, we love the new Perrier-Jouët Champagne Bar. With commanding views across the city, the Champagne Bar dominates the store's iconic glass bridge. Situated between menswear and womenswear, it's an elegant sanctuary where you can relax with a glass of Champagne while catching up on the new season trends.

W I N E A N D D I N EW H E N I T ’ S T I M E T O TA K E A B R E A K F R O M S H O P P I N G ,

H E A D T O A C H I C S P O T T O R E L A X I N S T Y L E

E N J O Y A B O T T L E O F C O M P L I M E N T A R Y R O S É A T

C Ô T E B R A S S E R I E COME SUMMER, THERE'S NO BETTER

WAY TO DINE THAN AL FRESCO.

Located on the canalside, fabulous Côte Brasserie is open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an irresistible modern take on classic French dishes such as steak frites, tuna nicoise, moules marinières and corn-fed chicken from the heart of rural Brittany.

The menu is fresh and seasonal, with a range of changing specials so there’s always something new to enjoy. Perfect for a breakfast business meeting, mid-morning coffee break, luxurious lunch or relaxing dinner, Côte is dedicated to serving excellent dishes at very competitive prices.

Try the weekday lunch and early evening menu for just £9.95 for two courses and £11.90 for three. Coupled with a friendly, informal vibe, affordable wine list and even free Wi-Fi, Côte is a perfect choice, and you’ll love eating al fresco on the heated terrace.

To celebrate the spring season, you can enjoy a complimentary bottle of Rosé Cuvee Laborie 2010 when dining. To take advantage of this offer, call 0121 631 1587 and quote ‘Mailbox magazine’ when booking.

• The offer is available Monday to Friday only until June 30 2012. One bottle of wine per table per visit. Main courses must be ordered. The offer cannot be used with any set priced menu. Booking is required. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and is valid at Côte in The Mailbox, Birmingham only.


42

WITH ITS REPUTATION FOR LUXURY,

IT WAS NO SURPRISE WHEN HARVEY

NICHOLS RECENTLY OPENED TWO

EXCLUSIVE NEW PLACES TO REFRESH,

RECHARGE AND REFUEL.

Last autumn saw the launch of the Harvey Nichols Espresso Café in store at The Mailbox. Whether you want to take an hour out of your busy work day, enjoy a morning pick-me-up or sneak in a break from retail therapy, the Espresso Café is the ideal place

to chill out. Spend time flicking through the day's papers or your favourite magazines, chat with friends and enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.

With its focus strongly on great tasting, local food and drink, the menu features produce sourced wherever possible from the nearby counties of Shropshire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.

Also at Harvey Nichols, we love the new Perrier-Jouët Champagne Bar. With commanding views across the city, the Champagne Bar dominates the store's iconic glass bridge. Situated between menswear and womenswear, it's an elegant sanctuary where you can relax with a glass of Champagne while catching up on the new season trends.

W I N E A N D D I N EW H E N I T ’ S T I M E T O TA K E A B R E A K F R O M S H O P P I N G ,

H E A D T O A C H I C S P O T T O R E L A X I N S T Y L E

E N J O Y A B O T T L E O F C O M P L I M E N T A R Y R O S É A T

C Ô T E B R A S S E R I E COME SUMMER, THERE'S NO BETTER

WAY TO DINE THAN AL FRESCO.

Located on the canalside, fabulous Côte Brasserie is open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an irresistible modern take on classic French dishes such as steak frites, tuna nicoise, moules marinières and corn-fed chicken from the heart of rural Brittany.

The menu is fresh and seasonal, with a range of changing specials so there’s always something new to enjoy. Perfect for a breakfast business meeting, mid-morning coffee break, luxurious lunch or relaxing dinner, Côte is dedicated to serving excellent dishes at very competitive prices.

Try the weekday lunch and early evening menu for just £9.95 for two courses and £11.90 for three. Coupled with a friendly, informal vibe, affordable wine list and even free Wi-Fi, Côte is a perfect choice, and you’ll love eating al fresco on the heated terrace.

To celebrate the spring season, you can enjoy a complimentary bottle of Rosé Cuvee Laborie 2010 when dining. To take advantage of this offer, call 0121 631 1587 and quote ‘Mailbox magazine’ when booking.

• The offer is available Monday to Friday only until June 30 2012. One bottle of wine per table per visit. Main courses must be ordered. The offer cannot be used with any set priced menu. Booking is required. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and is valid at Côte in The Mailbox, Birmingham only.

D I R E C T O R Y

T H E M A I L B O X

F A S H I O NHARVEY NICHOLS 0121 616 6000

ALLSAINTS0121 230 9940

AQUASCUTUM0121 411 0086

EMPORIO ARMANI 0121 632 1150

FAT FACE0121 632 1310

GIEVES & HAWKES0121 632 5295

HUGO BOSS0121 632 6010

JAEGER0121 633 4381

LK BENNETT0121 634 3156

THOMAS PINK0121 632 1301

S H O E S &A C C E S S O R I E SDANIEL FOOTWEAR0121 632 1421

H O M E &L I F E S T Y L EBANG & OLUFSEN0121 632 6166

BBC SHOP & VISITOR CENTRE0121 567 6767

CASTLE GALLERIES0121 633 0015

TESCO EXPRESS0121 695 9540

THE AGA SHOP0121 632 1311

FIRED EARTH0121 632 1366

S P A & S A L O N SMALMAISON LE PETIT SPA0121 246 5008

NICKY CLARKE SALONS0121 633 4009

TONI & GUY ESSENSUALS0121 643 3311

H O T E L SMALMAISON0121 246 5000

RAMADA0121 643 9344

C A R V A L E T I N GH200845 0177 701

(CAR PARK LEVEL 1)

R E S T A U R A N T S& C A F E B A R SBAR EPERNAY0121 632 1430

BAR ESTILO0121 643 3443

BAR ROOM BAR0121 632 1199

CAFFE GUSTO0121 665 6555

CAFƒ ROUGE0121 665 6437

CïTE BRASSERIE0121 631 1587

GOURMET BURGER KITCHEN 0121 633 8564

HARVEY NICHOLS ESPRESSO CAFE 0121 616 6028

HARVEY NICHOLS PERRIER-JOUèT CHAMPAGNE BAR 0121 616 6028

MALMAISON BAR 0121 246 5000

MALMAISON BRASSERIE 0121 246 5000

MILLER & CARTER0121 643 7738

NANDO'S0121 643 5123

PENNYBLACKS0121 632 1460

PIZZA EXPRESS0121 643 4016

RED PEPPERS0121 643 4202

SHOGUN0121 632 1253

STRADA0121 643 7279

THE ORIENTAL0121 633 9988

ZIZZI0121 632 1333

BullringBrindleyplace

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St

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Cha

rles

St

Colmore

Row

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ay

(A38)

Navigation St

Smallbrook

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ensw

ay

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al

Granville St

WHARFSIDE STREETTHE MAILBOXBIRMINGHAM

B1 1XL

T: 0121 632 1000 F: 0121 632 1001

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DOWNLOAD THE MAILBOX IPHONE APP

To celebrate the arrival of the spring/

summer 2012 collections in-store,

Emporio Armani is offering one lucky

reader a £500 shopping spree at The

Mailbox store.

For your chance to win, go to

www.mailboxlife.com/armani

or scan the QR code below, answer a

few brief questions about The Mailbox

and we’ll enter you into the draw to win

this fantastic prize.

Closing date: Friday June 29 2012. Terms and conditions

apply. Visit www.mailboxlife.com for more information.

WIN a £500 shopping spree at

the mailbox magazine, issue 5

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