Damian Hurley was born famous. Even though his mother, Elizabeth Hurley, put her career on hold to look after him, paparazzi would harass them on a daily basis. His teenage years were tainted with the death of important people in his life, the mark of which is palpable in his short film The Boy on the Beach and his debut feature-length film as a director, Strictly Confidential. Our Editor-in-Chief, Julia Pasarón, had the chance to catch up with him recently and learn who Damian Hurley really is.
Blessed with ridiculously good looks and having had his every need always catered for, Damian could easily have become an insufferable brat. Instead, this young man is devastatingly charming and easy-going. He has been obsessed with the world of celluloid since an early age, which is no surprise given that his mother is an actress and his godparents include industry giants Hugh Grant and Sir Elton John. Growing up, Damian used to hijack every holiday, torturing his long-suffering family and friends to act in his mini-movies, shot on a Flip Video camera given to him…
Located on the hills of Sotogrande, one of the most sought-after destinations in southern Europe among lovers of golf, polo and luxury life in general, Villa Noon is billed as the world’s first zero-emissions villa. Not only that, Villa Noon also generates its own water… from the sun. Viewed as a ground-breaking achievement in sustainable […]
The signature elegant luxury of Rocco Forte Hotels has been transposed to a beautiful new setting with the unveiling of Rocco Forte House Milan. After the plaudits received by Rocco Forte House Rome, the group is now opening eleven graceful new apartments on the highly desirable Via Manzoni in the very centre of Milan. They […]
In the last decade, the South Bank has become one of the most dynamic areas in London. Located at the heart of the city’s cultural scenes – the Southbank Centre, the National Theatre and the BFI are all in the area , as are the Big Ben and the London Eye. This part of London, with its tree-lined riverside walkway, its restaurants and historic pubs, is attracting the attention of developers as demand to live here has been increasing exponentially.
One of the most recent developments is Triptych Bankside, three imposing sweeping towers with 169 luxury apartments in two blocks and 68,000 sq ft of prime grade A commercial space in a nine-storey building. Designed by acclaimed architects Squire & Partners and inspired by the ebb and flow of the River Thames, Triptych Bankside’s undulating curves and bold architectural proportions are a striking statement silhouette on London’s skyline. Even more striking are the panoramic views enjoyed from the apartments, from the River Thames to St Paul’s, The Shard and other London landmarks.
Besides its privileged central location, all the amenities and retail spaces at ground level make the development really convenient for those looking for a luxury residence in a really vibrant part of London. Recently, three new spectacular show flats were revealed, curated by interior designers Cocovara and Bergman & Mar.
Lucy Powles, Director of Cocovara Interiors, commented, “In creating these new show flats, our approach has been inspired by a sophisticated, natural colour palette which is muted and calm. We have used natural textured fabrics and materials such as wicker and terracotta and commissioned bespoke artwork. Custom-built furniture with a sustainable focus has been specifically placed in order for the occupant to enjoy the magnificent views of St Paul’s Cathedral. This has been an exciting three-year project so far for us, setting the specification not only for the show flats but also the design style for the reception area, cinema, private lounges, gym and more.”
Interior designers Cocovara opted for a natural palette and textured fabrics and materials as well as bespoke artwork.
Petra Arko, Director of Bergman & Mar, said, “Our aim for the interior design of the Triptych show apartments was to create a luxurious city home that is comfortable yet unique while including the Southbank’s rich cultural history and vibrant life. We paid close attention to incorporating different tactile materials, soft shapes and warmer colour hues. We wanted the apartment to portray a feeling of uniqueness by using contemporary furniture made by British and international artisans, mixing contemporary and vintage-styled pieces. The idea was to create heirlooms that could be passed down to future generations.
All of the apartments within the complex feature bright spaces with floor to ceiling triple gazed windows and spacious balconies. There is a large co-working space with multiple workstations, ideal for hybrid working, as well as private lounges, games room and an in-house cinema. On site there is an independent café run by 92 Degrees, state-of-the-art gym with a bouldering climbing wall run by The Font, cycle storage with showers and communal landscaped gardens.
Bergman & Mar aimed at making each apartment feel unique by using furniture made by British and international artisans.
Explore the rich history of this thriving area filled with iconic landmarks and world-class galleries against the backdrop of the River Thames. Walk a short distance to find a wealth of distinguishable and characterful pockets, culinary and retail hotspots, as well as convenient transport hubs that facilitate seamless access across the capital and beyond.
Nigel Fleming, Sales & Marketing Director of JTRE London commented, “This sales success so far is testament to the design, location and quality of development at Triptych Bankside, making the estate one of the foremost schemes in London and is reflected in the soaring levels of interest from the UK and further afield. We are attracting buyers away from traditional golden postcodes such as Kensington and Chelsea as they are pleasantly surprised when they discover how quiet it is in the immediate vicinity, yet with a host of amenities right on the doorstep. With easy access to both The City and the West End, Triptych Bankside offers incredible views of London’s skyline, as well as being closely situated to Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market.”
I-M Magazine’s Shelley Campbell was recently invited to Sicily to learn more about the Irene Forte Skincare range. First stop was the Rocco Forte Verdura Resort, which comprises 230 hectares of sun-kissed Mediterranean coastline, countryside, golf and spa, and this is where I first met the delightfully engaging and passionate Irene Forte. An Oxford graduate, not only is she the founder, leader and driving force behind Irene Forte Skincare, she is the Wellness Consultant for Rocco Forte Hotels and an Advisory Board Member of the Global Wellness Summit.
Irene’s family originates from Italy, a country that has been a home-from-home since her early childhood. She first stepped foot in Sicily in 2003, when she explored the area that later became the Verdura Resort and organic farm from which her principal ingredients are sourced. When it opened in 2009, Irene devoted a year to working there, during which she fell in love with the people, culture, food and the natural spirit of the island. As she learned more and developed her understanding of skin and overall wellbeing, Irene realised that Sicily’s rich organic ingredients and the bountiful produce that Verdura’s organic farm provided, was the perfect base for a skincare line with health and wellness at its heart.
Irene Forte Essentiali Rigeneranti kit, a luxurious box containing their six regenerating essential products. RRP £250.
Having hypersensitive skin myself, I was a dedicated devotee to a brand which I finally found agreed with me, so I was hesitant to try something new. I pride myself on being an ethical journalist (yes, there is such a thing) and will only support products that I legitimately believe in. I therefore embarked on the Irene Forte Skincare regime seven days before I travelled and continued throughout my time in Sicily. I can say – hand on my heart – that I have become an enormous fan.
The first morning we were treated to a bespoke tour with Luciano Porcu (the Rocco Forte Verdura Spa Director) who guided us through the astoundingly expansive and abundant grounds of the resort. From the olive and almond groves to the prickly pear cacti and helichrysums – I discovered a whole new world of holistic and fortifying ingredients, which have shown profound results in independent clinical and user trials in skincare.
Luciano Porcu, spa director at the Rocco Forte Verdura resort showed us how many ingredients are sourced from plants grown locally such as prickly pear cacti, olives and almonds.
At the end of our tour, we were greeted and treated to a cooking lesson with Fulvio Pierangelini, the enigmatic, captivating and passionate Creative Director of Food for the Rocco Forte Hotel group. Coming from someone whose meals often go “ding” at the end, it was an eye-opening experience learning about the ease of creating traditional Italian dishes using respectful treatment of the simplest ingredients.
“Simplicity is the point of arrival. This has been at the heart of my mission for over 40 years.”
– Chef Fulvio Pierangelini
Working closely with renowned chemist Dr Francesca Ferri and her team of biologists and pharmacologists in Trento, Irene developed a range of nutrient-rich skincare based upon the principles of the Mediterranean diet; regarded by many as the healthiest in the world. It is a common misconception that all naturals are kind – in fact, some are actually foreign to the skin and can cause reactivity and irritation. Irene Forte Skincare was created on the principles of 75 exceptionally skin-kind compounds.
Based on 35 years of research, Dr Ferri is a pioneer in the medical use of plant-derived extracts in the treatment of dermatological conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis, as well as tumours and degenerative diseases. She was awarded the Italian equivalent of a knighthood for her ground-breaking research into the genetic basis of skin issues and, more recently, has discovered a type of melatonin, known as Phytomelatonin, which has shown to have breakthrough potential in anti-ageing cosmetics (these accolades are to name but a few).
Dr Francesca Ferri and Irene Forte’s relationship is based on a mutual desire to educate and create products that support health, wellness, and anti-ageing.
Meeting Dr Ferri was a pure joy. She didn’t speak English and my Italian is restricted to “ciao, arrivederci, and grazie”. However, with Irene’s translation, I discovered a warm and wonderful person who is as passionate about the benefits of plant-derived actives as Irene is. I immediately recognised the organic and symbiotic partnership, solidified by a mutual desire to educate and create products that support health, wellness, and anti-ageing.
“Since the brand’s inception, it has been hugely important to me that my line is as sustainable as possible, always thinking about governance, community, environment and our customers.
– Irene Forte
As a businesswoman, Irene embodies her family’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to ethical business practices. She sees her skincare company as part of a much wider system of people, organisations, nature, and the environment; and is personally committed to doing the “right thing” to ensure that her products and processes are as sustainable as possible. This is further exhibited by the integration of zero-waste upcycled ingredients which are certified vegan. In recognition of these standards, Irene Forte Skincare has already achieved B-Corp status and has been awarded the Butterfly Trust Mark by Positive Luxury for sustainable excellence.
Linda Pilkington exudes an energy and passion that seem difficult to be contained in such a petite woman – less than five foot tall. The only British female perfumer that owns her own house after more than 20 years, Linda’s brand, Ormonde Jayne, has become synonymous with the finest, gender and stereotype-free fragrances in the country.
Linda’s adventure into the world of perfume started with a commission to create a scented candle for Chanel’s boutique 20 years ago and has since evolved into 300 points of sale worldwide. It has been a long journey, but one that Linda treasures. “I enjoy all of it,” she explains with a big smile and dreamy eyes, “from going to the end of the world for a specific oil to greeting my customers here [her boutique in the Royal Arcade, London] or meeting other professionals in the industry… I find it all very exciting.”
Personal relationships are at the core of how Linda does things. “I’ve always been inspired by family-run businesses,” she explains, “I prefer them because decisions can be taken much more quickly and it is easier to avoid certain compromises. In the case of perfumes for example, working with cheaper essential oils to reduce costs is a classic one, or not letting them mature long enough before bottling them. I’d never do that.”
Ormonde Jayne’s boutique in the Royal Arcade, London feels like a chocolate box, luxurious, indulgent and full of wonderful surprises.
The truth is that I can’t imagine anyone telling Linda Pilkington what to do. However, she regularly seeks her husband’s advice. “He is the sensible one in the family,” she shares, “and he is very smart too, so I like running things by him. He gives me his opinion and then I decide, but unless what would probably happen with outside investors, his recommendations are not based on pushing profits but on helping me achieve my dreams for Ormonde Jayne.”
It is clear that Linda is driven by passion. I observe her while she tells me about pure flower oils and the faraway places she goes to find her ingredients and her face lights up. She brings Black Hemlock Absolute from the pine forests in North America, Frangipani blossoms from the tropical beaches in Kenya, Oudh from The Mekong river… the list is endless. She truly goes to the four corners of the world to source those magical compounds that make her fragrances truly individual and free from any stereotypes. For example, Linda made her collection gender free back in 2005, way before it became popular. “It was a decision based on observing our customers,” Linda explains, “I’d see women choosing perfumes I had initially conceived as male and vice versa. I realised that it was a mistake to assign gender to fragrances and that everyone should wear whichever scent they felt more identified with. So instead, I organised my perfumes in families. This is also why the design of our bottles is so neutral.”
Frangipani is one of the most fragrant flowers in perfumery, their scent reminiscing of something exotic, tropical and sultry.
It was for a similar reason that last year she removed the term “oriental” from all her perfumes and changed it to “amberesque”, to indicated those made with resins and ambers. “I agree with perfumer writer Tania Sánchez. The term ‘oriental’ is actually meaningless when it comes to fragrances and could be perceived as derogatory.”
These days, the Ormonde Jayne range includes five collections: Signature, Four Corners, Elixir, La Route de la Soie and Hair Mist, not bad for a perfumer that 25 years ago couldn’t get pass the receptionist of the companies she wanted to buy oils from. “I understand them. At that time, I could only buy tiny amounts of those precious ingredients so for them it wasn’t even worth doing the paperwork. Now I can just call and they’ll send me anything I ask for,” says Linda with clear pride in her voice, “but I must admit that I could have probably struggled if it hadn’t been for the Internet, which allowed me to research and investigate suppliers all over the world.”
“I realised that it was a mistake to assign gender to fragrances and that everyone should wear whichever scent they felt more identified with.”
– Linda Pilkington
I find fascinating that the Internet has been a fundamental contributing factor to the success of a company anchored in craftmanship, a company that produces all their perfumes from start to finish in their private studio in Kent, keeping the highest standards of sustainability – including refillable bottles – and observing every single rule dictated by IFRA (International Fragrance Association), the international body that governs the perfume industry worldwide. “We perfumers can’t just use any ingredient we want. “There is a long list of banned compounds and allergens and also limitations in the amounts that can be used,” Linda explains, “and every time you launch a fragrance in a market you need to send a sample to IFRA for their approval.”
But to Linda, all the effort and more is worth it not just because of the exquisite fragrances that come out at the end of the process but for the enjoyment they bring to her customers. “Most of our clients have been coming to us for years,” she shares, “I am working downstairs and hear their voices as they walk into the boutique. I then come to greet them and hear about their children, their businesses… in a way, they have become my family. I have known some of them for two decades!”
Montabaco Verano is a sensual fragrance, rich in leather, wood and tobacco leaf with a touch of grapefruit and cashmeran.
The popularity of her fragrances is also growing among younger generations. The Route de la Soi (Silk Road) collection has been a resounding success among this demographic, probably attracted by the allure of Eastern travelling, from China to Babylonia and into the Levant. Another one very popular among her younger customers is the Four Corners collection, which celebrates the creativity that stems from the multiculturalism of London. Linda reckons that the use of ingredients rarely seen in fragrances has contributed to the success achieved among Millennials and Zoomers. “Especially in the East, our buyers tell us that young people seem to understand very well our perfumes, made with unusual ingredients, like peonies, pure gardenia or ta’if. Maybe it is because they don’t have preconceptions about scents,” suggests Linda.
Always moving forward, Linda asks herself everyday how they can do better, so the Ormonde Jayne journey is one of constant evolution. “I never re-order automatically when we run out of a stock item,” she shares, “I first wonder if I can do anything better, may that be in the packaging to make it more sustainable or in the weight of the cap of the bottle or in the booklet inside every perfume box that explains the fragrance and our philosophy.”
That initiative to keep evolving took her to create Hair Mist, a collection of fragrances for your hair that I am absolutely in love with. They contain pro-vitamin B and keratine to protect the hair follicles and promote healthy growth. And in the last few months she has launched two new perfumes, Montabaco Verano, a seductive scent based on tobacco and leather with a touch of fruitiness and zest and the dreamy Gatsby 22, inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s book. “At London Craft Week they asked me to create a perfume based on my favourit book, so I picked The Great Gatsby.” Linda admits being almost obsessed with this novel. She even went to stay in the hotel where Fitzgerald wrote it. “It is such an evocative book,” she says with dreamy eyes, “so the inspiration for Gatsby 22 just flowed from the idea of open top Rolls-Royces, pearls, white linen jackets, evening garden parties and champagne on the balcony. Hence the Sicilian lemons and orange blossom in the fragrance, the little bit of Vetiver to help it last longer, the touch of leather and tobacco…” I can’t help but smile, as my imagination has been taken straight to Jay Gatsby’s lawn and I can almost hear the tinkling of champagne glasses and the laughter of his guests.
Gatsby 22 personifies the stylish and sophisticated 1920s, a time of jazz, pearls, large evening parties and Rolls Royce cars.
I realised I have been taking too much of Linda’s time, so I come back to reality and say my thank yous and good-byes. As I am leaving, two customers come in, both greeting Linda by name and immediately perching themselves on two stools for what looks like a good catch up over a cup of tea (she sources not only the best oils in the world but also the best chamomile and honey tea). I reflect on what she had told me earlier about the importance of relationships and how proud she is of having been able to balance work and family life over the years. I admire her work ethic and her ambition, which is curiously entwined with honest modesty. “I am very happy with what we have achieved. Businesswise I’d like Ormonde Jayne to stand the test of time and be amongst the very best in the market. But the most important thing is that my family stays healthy and happy.”
Since discovering Ormonde Jayne about a year ago, I must say I’ve become a great fan of both the brand and the powerful woman behind it. I look forward to discovering what else Linda Pilkington has in store for the world of perfumery and her beloved customers.
You know how evocative scents can be. They can send us back to a childhood memory or to a fabulous past holiday, to a moment of exultance or to a private time we treasure in our hearts. Our Deputy Editor Lavina Dickson-Robinson, who in her early 30s followed a fragrance making course, has picked her favourite four scents for this summer to share with all of you.
My first choice is Soleil Vibrant by Lalique, a fragrance which celebrates lion-hearted women, such as Marie-Claude Lalique, keeper of the family tradition in glass and crystal artistry until her retirement in 1994. Soleil Vibrant (£100, 100ml) has an entirely original formula, following the House’s commitment to sustainability and is inspired by wild animal prints.
The sun-shaped bottle of Soleil Vibrant includes a gold box chain to wear as a necklace, bracelet or anklet.
Created by Master Perfumers Nathalia Lorson and Alexandra Monet, this eau de parfum displays bergamot essence at first, followed by the sweetness of juicy pear and the cool-hot bite of ginger which brings out the freshness of fruity notes. Add the femininity of jasmine and saffron and the smoothness of sandalwood and vanilla and the overall result is a sensual scent which is impossible to resist. Buy HERE.
Next, I am choosing Davana Cèdre, by Lilanur, India’s first luxury fragrance house. Born in Madurai, crafted in Grasse, and now available at Harrods, all their scents celebrate India’s wealth in flowers, spices, herbs and woods. I’ve picked this one in particular because davana is a plant holy to Hindu deity Shiva, the god of transformation, and is prized for the multi-faceted, herbaceous scent of its flowers and leaves.
Davana Cèdre is one of seven Eau de parfums by Lilanur, expertly composed around India’s abundant flora.
In Davana Cèdre (£225, 100ml), the plant’s balsamic fruitiness meets the warmth of cedar, bringing a spiritual element to the grounding nature of wood and creating the sensual effect of two distinct ingredients supported by pink pepper, angelique, cassis and musk. Buy HERE.
My next choice pays homage to the 1920s. Gatsby 22 by Ormonde Jayne is inspired by The Great Gatsby, which happens to be the favourite novel of its creator, English perfumer Linda Pilkington. Confident, edgy and sophisticated, this is our Editor Julia’s favourite scent this summer. It suits her predilection for citrusy fragrances with its boisterous burst of Sicilian lemon and bergamot, which is smoothed by osmanthus, orange blossom and violets with notes of vetiver, which linger on long after you spray it on your skin. Gatsby 22 (£110, 50ml) can be worn anytime and anywhere.
Like all of Ormonde Jayne’s fragrances, Gatsby 22 is gender-free and made from start to finish at their private studio in Kent.
Gatsby 22 is a perfume to personify a stylish and sophisticated era – nostalgic for a time of jazz, pearls, well-tailored dinner jackets, cigars and Rolls Royce cars. Buy HERE.
Last, a bit of a classic, Lime Basil & Mandarin by Jo Malone. I think that this cologne summarises with Jo Malone is about: simplicity. That said, they recommend to layer their fragrances to tailor them to your own personality. For example, Lime Basil & Mandarin (£110, 100ml), with its citrus, herbaceous tones, combines really well with Blackberry & Bay for vibrancy and extra freshness or with Wood Sage & Sea Salt for a warmer scent, aromatic with basil & sage.
Lime Basil & Mandarin displays top notes of mandarin over a heart of basil and amber for balance. The cologne is completed with a full range of body products.
At the core of Lime Basil & Mandarin we find peppery basil and aromatic white thyme, which help bring out the zest of Caribbean limes. Buy HERE.
Every second, the cork pops on a bottle of Moët & Chandon somewhere in the world, bringing friends, colleagues and families together. Think of Moët & Chandon and you envision glamour and elegance. Founded in 1743, Moët & Chandon is the Maison that contributed to introducing champagne to the world by offering a range of unique wines for every occasion. It has elated the royal courts of France under Louis XV, walked the red carpets of Hollywood, toasted the Grand Slams of the world, lit up Studio 54, flashed during Fashion Weeks, rejoiced with the Queen’s milestones, and now joins Harrods – an iconic London destination – to open its largest stand-alone champagne bar in Europe.
For those of you unaware, Harrods began as a wholesale grocer and tea merchant in East London, first opening its doors in 1834. Since then, it has grown to become the world’s most famous department store, known for its unrivalled range of luxury merchandise. As well as exclusive brands and myriad departments, one of Harrods’ most renowned attributes is its unparalleled service. Harrods continues to be guided by its philosophy of “anything is possible”, and customers remain at the heart of everything they do.
Settling in at the bar, I delight at the expansive selection of champagnes available to savour by the bottle – from 75cl to magnums – such as exceptional wines from the Moët & Chandon Legacy Champagne Grand Vintage and Legacy Champagne Rare Limited-Edition Bottle Collections. The range of prices suits a variety of budgets, starting at £16 a glass for their Brut Imperial NV up to £4,400 for their 1959 Grand Vintage Magnum.
Ethan Boroian, Champagne Ambassador UK for Moët, yes, that is a real job… chats to me whilst I’m carrying out my research (wink), about how the shape of a glass impacts the size and number of bubbles you will experience. The aptly named 870 Flute was designed to give the consumer the ultimate tasting sensation of 870,000 bubbles, scientifically proven to be the ideal effervescence for Moët & Chandon. Do not worry, you need not count, just enjoy!
To compliment your bubbles, an array of sumptuous sweet and savoury dishes has been thoughtfully and meticulously developed by Master Chef, Gareth Keown. I had the pleasure of sampling what’s on offer, and can confirm, foodies will not be disappointed. From the bar’s signature ‘Choux Love’ dish – a mouth-watering dessert of choux pastry buns with a mango & passion fruit diplomat filling (each branded with one of the four M O Ë T letters) – to the deliciously tempting ‘Cheese Délice’ – a Burrata Stracciatella, spicy Kimchi & black sesame toastie. Other notable dishes include the aptly named ‘The World Is Your Oyster’ – rock oysters, pear & cucumber, Oscietra caviar; the vegan-friendly ‘Not Another Faux Pas’ – faux gras, rhubarb, ginger and bread; and the unctuous ‘Moët Caramel’ – a dark chocolate shell (cleverly cast in the shape of a Moët & Chandon embossed bottle plaque) filled with 66 percent dark chocolate mousse & salted caramel, served on a crunchy biscuit.
To enhance the unique customer experience, dishes are presented on a selection of bespoke plates each bearing a different famous champagne quote, including “Pleasure without Champagne is purely artificial” by Oscar Wilde and “My only regret in life is that I didn’t drink enough champagne” – a remark once made British Economist John Maynard Keynes.
Lastly, I must mention the spectacular design of the bar from the global architectural designer, Sybarite. Inspired by Moët & Chandon’s heritage, Simon Mitchell, Co-Founder of Sybarite, oozed passion when he spoke of the painstaking process for the assembly of the sculptured, central chandelier, composed entirely of degrade metallic discs; the idea being one of celebration and effervescence, as it shimmers and oscillates above. The chalk bar counter channels the linearity of the terroir and topography of the Epernay wine region.
The Moët & Chandon Bar epitomises prestige, French etiquette and elegance, a sense of playfulness, and the philosophy and spirit of La Grande Maison. All the factors one anticipates with the pleasure of drinking champagne. Couple this with the backdrop of Harrods, and you have a truly magical, immersive experience!
We spend most of the year dreaming of summer, of long days in the sun followed by balmy evening that invite us to stay out until late, enjoying the company of family or friends. However, summer can have a terribly effect on your skin. From the dehydration caused by sweating and air-conditioning to outbreaks of acne due to extra production of oil and the worst of them all, long-term sun damage.
Our Editor Julia Pasarón is always on the lookout for products to help her keep her skin in tip-toe form in summer. Here are her recommendations to achieve a tanned, glowy skin maintaining it hydrated and protected.
I find that my normal skin routine falls a bit short when I am in a hot, sunny country. After my moisturiser, I apply the new Multi-Defense Ceramides Protecting Veil by Avant (£75.00/ 50ml), which helps safeguard my skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays with its broad-spectrum SPF 50. UVA causes photo-ageing (wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and brown spots) whilst UVB causes burning of the skin. The formula also contains ingredients like ceramides to form a protective layer that helps plump skin and hold moisture; white tea extract to minimise cell damage, oxidation caused by UV rays and sooth the complexion; jojoba oil to nourish and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; and sunflower seed, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help with redness and roughness.
Multi-Defense Ceramides Protecting Veil by Avant protects skin from photo-ageing and provides long-lasting moisture.
The cream smells gorgeous and after applying it, I feel my skin moisturised and very smooth to the touch. Buy HERE.
If you are going to be properly exposed to the sun, you need good protection. Sensai’s Silky Bronze Cellular Protective Cream SPF 50+ (Face £87.00, 50ml; Body £76.00, 150ml) is the best I’ve tried this summer. Oil and water resistant, it protects the skin from all UV rays and addresses signs of ageing with its “Sun Ageing Care Complex”, which helps restore skin clarity. This cream also has white tea extract to help with oxidation, cell damage and soothing the complexion.
On application, it feels creamy but very light and silky to the touch. On the face, my skin looks immediately smoother and more radiant, on the body, denser and more toned. Buy HERE.
If I am going out during the day when it’s still hot, I normally avoid foundation. Instead, I am using Filorga’s Oxygen-Glow CC Cream SPF 30+ (£33, 30ml), the first CC Cream with a complex inspired by carboxytherapy, a technique used in cosmetic medicine to re-oxygenate cells to give you an immediate and long-lasting natural glow. Hyaluronic acid smooths and plumps skin while Life-enzyme helps with detoxification and nasturtium extract with oxygenation. An ingredient I hadn’t seen before is NCEF complex, which appears to be a cell regeneration booster with anti-ageing effects. The cream also provides triple protection against UV, blue light and pollution.
Half skincare, half make-up, Filorga’s Oxygen- Glow CC cream fades skin’s flaws and illuminates the complexion.
Its micro-pigments help correct, unify and enhance the skin, so I often use it as a primer or even as a substitute for my day cream if I am in a rush or feeling particularly lazy. Buy HERE.
As I am not using foundation, I apply Sensai’s silky bronze Natural Veil compact powder SPF 20 (£45.00, 8.5g) with the sponge slightly wet, from the centre of the face outwards but you can use it just as it is. This is a very soft and delicate powder foundation that visibly evens out the complexion and give your face a sun-kissed, silky-bronze glow. Buy HERE.
Sensai’s Natural Veil compact powder comes in four shades: light, natural, medium and dark. You can test them all digitally on their website.
If you are in a rush, you can simply mix Dr. Hauschka’s Translucent Bronzing Tint (£20, 18ml) with your moisturiser for a fresh, healthy glow. The formulation contains bronzing mineral pigments, olive oil and nurturing plant extracts of anthyllis and witch hazel which blend with the skin tone to create a natural sun-kissed look. At the same time, it helps soften the appearance of blemishes and imperfections, unifying the skin tone.
Dr. Hauschka’s Translucent Bronzing Tint can be adjusted to match the season and skin tone.
I find that when using a richer moisturiser than usual – for example if I am going to be outdoors all day – it’s better to apply this bronzing fluid after the cream. The result is equally radiant. Buy HERE.
Oh! Let’s not forget our hair! Often we only realise the damage exposure to sun, swimming-pool and seawater causes when we find ourselves back at home with dry, brittle hair that feels like a scourer. I like using Ormonde Jayne’s Hair Mist (£60, 50ml). It is enriched with pro-vitamin B to help retain moisture in your hair, thereby making it soft, smooth and more manageable and keratin, which smooths the cells that overlap to form hair strands, which means less frizz and split ends and more gloss.
Ormonde Jayne’s Hair Mist is available in six irresistible scents. My favourites are Levant, which is quite floral and the slightly more citrusy, Damask.
As with all of Jayne Ormonde’s products, her Hair Mists are free from Phthalates, made with the best oils in the world and hand-poured in their own laboratory in Britain. I spray it over my hair with my head down and then brush. Trust me, people will notice and ask. Buy HERE.
Last, remember to drink plenty of water and to avoid the midday sun. Regardless of how well you protect your skin, at that time solar radiations is much stronger so the risk of sun damage is considerably higher. No tan is worth skin cancer. For more information, read HERE. Last, remember to drink plenty of water and to avoid the midday sun. Regardless of how well you protect your skin, at that time solar radiations is much stronger so the risk of sun damage is considerably higher. No tan is worth skin cancer. For more information, read HERE.
Riverfront homes in London have been desirable since the creation of the city. The historical demand for a residence close to the Thames has meant opportunities to purchase a property are extremely rare. Chelsea Waterfront is the first development of its kind in this sought-after area for a hundred years.
Imagine being on your balcony, overlooking beautiful landscaped gardens, sipping on cocktails watching the surface of the Thames glitter as the sun comes down,. The highest risk of disturbance being the concierge, informing you that they have sorted your laundry service for tomorrow and that they will call you when those deliveries you are expecting tomorrow, arrive.
This type of living is available in London at the newest housing development on the North bank: Chelsea Waterfront, a concept of luxury living that involves all the services you’d expect in a five-star hotel. Basically, it is more buying into a lifestyle than into a real estate development. Not to mention what a safe investment this kind of purchase is. Luxury estate agents Knight Frank have seen a constant raise of demand in the capital’s waterfront market, with their very won Q4 2021 Waterfront Index showing the average premium uplift for London waterfront property was 10 percent versus comparative property not offering waterfront living, with sales up 36 percent in 2021 versus 2020… and people looking to buy increasing by 138 percent over the same period.
Chelsea Waterfront will include two towers, three riverside buildings arranged around landscaped gardens and the redevelopment of the historic Lots Road Power Station.
New Homes Partner at Knight Frank, Christopher Jones, says, “Despite the recent rebalancing of values across some London markets, the premium buyers are willing to pay to be by the water is still very much there. Throughout the pandemic and today, transactional activity and demand for waterfront property remain high… For homeowners at Chelsea Waterfront, accessing the Thames path and walking along the Southbank has been hugely popular.”
Chelsea Waterfront is the vision of internationally renowned architect Sir Terry Farrell with the gardens designed by leading landscape architect Randle Siddeley Associates. The development includes three large houses and two residential glass towers covering six hundred metres of riverside. East and West Towers stand on either side of a landscaped creek framing the former Lots Road Power Station, one of Chelsea’s most well-known buildings and the last of London’s great three power stations to be repurposed.
The ground level gardens have integrated planting and feature lighting designed by a specialist landscape architect.
Jones continues, “We have seen a shift in buyers at Chelsea Waterfront; pre-pandemic, it proved popular with international buyers and investors; however, more recently, we have seen a big uptick in domestic purchasers trading up and moving for its Thameside location; buyers come out of big apartments in areas such as Knightsbridge to be near the river and enjoy all that living in a modern home has to offer. This increased local demand is all down to location and lifestyle offering of the water’s edge.”
Chartwell, Claydon and Compton Houses
The three houses on site are named after large country estates across the UK with impressive gardens. They all feature superior accommodation from two to four-bedroom apartments. Exquisite kitchens are fitted with bespoke modular cabinets with high gloss lacquered doors to standard units. Top-of-the-range appliances are included. Standard pieces include fridge/freezer, dishwasher, oven, microwave and combined washer/dryer.
In the luxury bathrooms, walls are fully tiled with polished natural stone and complementary honed stone tiles to the floor. Luxury touches such as mirror demisters and under-floor heating are standard. Brassware is polished stainless steel or chrome – generally by Dornbracht.
Chelsea Waterfront has a heat and power plant which supplies all the buildings with metered hot water. As you would expect from modern living, the apartments are energy efficient and use all the latest technology to save money and reduce carbon emissions. All apartments have a Home Automation System, a central touch screen, and a separate local scene setting controls for principal rooms. The system operates lighting, heating and cooling (where applicable) and interfaces with the door entry intercom, security access and panic alarm systems.
The development also boasts underground parking and a 24-hour security service on-site.
Tower East and Tower West
The towers will host restaurants combined with residential luxury apartments, which match the styling of those in the three houses.
The views from the towers’ apartments make Chelsea Waterfront one of the most desirable residential developments in our capital.
All residents can use the facilities within Chelsea Waterfront: a health and fitness suite with a sculptured pool, spa, sauna, steam room and state-of-the-art gym, all a short walk back to your superb residence.
Location, location, location is key to Chelsea Waterfront. From stunning parks and fabulous shopping to the most remarkable museums such as the Victoria & Albert and National History Museum, Chelsea has always been the beating heart of London, hosting many events like the Chelsea Flower Show, Salon Privé and Masterpiece.
As a humanitarian and environmental activist, Lily had for a long time a controversial relationship with gems extracted from under the skin of our planet. In this interview, she is joined by the founder of Skydiamond, Dale Vince and photographer Rankin, to explain to our editor Julia Pasarón how we can turn the industry into an agent for positive change in the efforts to combat climate change.
Diamonds are made of pure carbon, and thanks to pollution, we have plenty of it in our atmosphere. Lily Cole learnt about the company making diamonds out of thin air – Skydiamond – when researching for her book, Who Cares Wins: How to Protect the Planet you Love. “Diamonds are synonymous with beauty,” declares Lily, “but for many years the mining of jewels has been a very ugly business.” Lily’s concern is not new. As early as 2005, she announced that she would no longer model for De Beers after being alerted to the situation of the Kalahari Bushmen being evicted from their lands in Botswana.
Being able to mine the sky represents the perfect metaphor of how we ought to be evolving every industry in the face of the climate crisis…
– Lily Cole
Behind the scenes at Lily’s shoot by Rankin for Skydiamond.
“Being able to mine the sky represents the perfect metaphor of how we ought to be evolving every industry in the face of the climate crisis: carbon negative by design; a solution rather than a problem. That’s why I became such a supporter of Skydiamond’s mission,” she says. In fact, for quite some time, Lily has been calling for an end to traditional diamond mining and advocating for sustainable fashion. “Scientists tell us we have to not only reduce carbon emissions, but also remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere,” she explains. “There are many ways to do this, from nature itself to artificial trees and other high-tech solutions; mining the sky instead of the Earth to produce diamonds is one of them. Such a crazy and amazing concept!”
If I am going to help sell something, it has to be something I believe in…
– Lily Cole
This is the over-simplified mental process that Dale Vince, founder of Skydiamond, followed to create the world’s first and only conflict-free diamonds made entirely from renewable energy. Dale has always been interested in sustainability. He is what we could call a green-tech pioneer. Dale is Chairman of Forest Green Rovers, recognised by United Nations as the world’s first carbon-neutral football club, and, before Skydiamond, he founded Ecotricity, a provider of fully sustainable energy.
I’d look at cars and wondered how much fuel we burnt in our everyday lives…
– Dale Vince
Dale’s interest in eco-friendly businesses started when he was a kid, when he spent a lot of time wondering about the sustainability of our way of life. “I’d look at cars and wondered how much fuel we burnt in our everyday lives,” he shares. This was the 1970s, a fuel thirsty decade if there has ever been one. As Lego Technic didn’t exist yet, Dale took to building his own stuff using batteries, which at the time were expensive, didn’t last long and had to be thrown away. “It all seemed to me a terrible waste of materials.”
To read this interview in full, please order your copy of our new issueHere.
The 300-year story of racing at Ascot began in 1711, when Queen Anne put the idea into motion to pursue her love of horse racing. With her Platinum Jubilee taking place this year, we all hope HM the Queen will be able to attend and that this will be a Royal Ascot to remember. Horses have played a huge part in the Queen’s life for the past nine decades. The 96-year-old monarch now holds the accolade of being one of the most successful owners and breeders of all time with over 530 wins.
To some, Royal Ascot may be just one of the highlights of the British social calendar but let’s not forget this is really about racing (it hosts seven of the UK’s 32 annual Group 1 races) and is considered by those in the know to offer the chance to witness some of the best horse racing in the world. It is also a meeting of royals, celebrities and industry tycoons. The feature race of the week is the Ascot Gold Cup, a two-and-a-half-mile Group 1 contest is run on Thursday and is considered the best staying race of the year. This is the event where the big bets will be staked. Frankie Dettori will ride Stradivarius, trained by John & Tandy Gosling. Spanish Mission trained by Clare Balding’s brother Andrew and Hollie Doyle ridding Trueshan shall make it a thrilling race. Hollie is, of course, our top female jockey, who last September became the first woman to be placed in the prize money in a British Classic.
Let’s not forget the two-legged fillies. Thursday is also “Ladies Day” and almost anything goes, from the stylish to the outrageous, the stakes are just as high around the paddock as they are in. Will platinum be the colour du jour this year? The Queen always opts for bright colours so she can stand out and been seen by her adoring subjects. We get a first look at her Majesty during the elegant procession of open-top carriages as they travel along the racecourse from Windsor Castle. The crowds at the Royal Enclosure vie for pole positions waiting for the Royal Family and their guests to alight from their carriages.
Foodies this year are in luck. Food at the Royal Enclosure will be prepared by Ollie Dabbous’s team at the Michelin-starred Hide London in the form of both a buffet and à la carte menu showcasing the best of British seasonal produce, elevated to the finest of cuisine in dishes such as Chilled pea & marigold soup, Cornish monkfish & mussels with Jersey Royals and Clotted cream panna cotta with strawberries.
The official coffee will be served by Lavazza, from the private boxes to their bars all around the Ascot racecourse, including two new ones that will be available exclusively for the event, in the Royal Enclosure and the Queen Anne enclosure. This is where you will also be able to enjoy some of their signature Coffeetails, such as the Lavazza Espresso Martini.
