Fashion Voyeur

By Pixie Tenenbaum

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There’s a hidden gem in the city of Newcastle that’s a haven for all things beauty.  Once in a while, you come across a great little place that just hits the spot, whether it’s a cool suburban coffee shop, a beachfront surf shop, or in this case a super cute independent nail bar.  These are the places that get us a little bit more excited than the big franchises that scream at us from the sidewalk.

Levoi – pronounced Le-vwah – is one of these places.  Right in the heart of Newcastle, it’s a basement level champagne nail bar with a colour scheme to die for.  Aiming to bring a friendly feel back to nail grooming after the influx of conveyor belt nail salons to the city in recent years.  There’s not a Dremel in sight at Levoi so you know from the outset that your nails are in safe hands.

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Hidden away at ankle level on St Mary’s place, close to the Haymarket, Levoi is a friendly welcoming salon that prides itself on not only its flair for creative nails, but also its service.  I’m greeted on arrival by owner Ann who tells me that the name Levoi is a simple anagram of her mother’s name, Olive.  Already pretty cute, right?  The colour scheme is a subtle tribute too, with soft muted greens and a signature nail polish created in her honour, it’s clear that family is at the heart of this business.

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With a bar stool nail bar as the focal point of the first room in the salon, I take my seat and before my butt has touched the leather, I’m handed a glass of champagne and a strawberry dipped in chocolate – the staple diet of Levoi clients.  My nails are prepped and sanitised before the cuticles are trimmed back and the tips shaped.  I’ve opted for a service called “One For The Road” which is the salon’s most popular treatment.  It includes cured gel that lasts up to three weeks and it’s Levoi’s own bespoke gel in a range of colours mixed and selected by the staff themselves, each one named after a cocktail, natch.

Now you know me pretty well by now Voyeurs: pastel hair and glossy black nails, that’s my jam, but today I’m throwing caution to the wind and I let Kayley Ann, my Nail Technician for the afternoon, decide on the colour.  I know, shocking.  She seems to have the measure of me as she selects a deep navy blue shade called Kir Royale, topped with a subtle glitter fleck, the finished product is called a Royal-Tini & it’s pretty fitting that they’re blue, as it’s Autism Awareness Month.  Winning.  After each nail treatment, hands are massaged with an own-blend of lavender infused olive oil which leaves my hands smelling flippin’ lush.

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The big difference you’ll notice with Levoi, is its laid back LA vibe;  Nothing is rushed, chat isn’t forced, and it’s a relaxing environment.  It doesn’t have that feeling of being turnover orientated, staff take time to chat and they’ll mix bespoke colours for clients if there’s something in particular you need to match.  Ann recently created a bespoke tartan checked nail for a client to match to a dress and says she loves a challenge.

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There’s a simple menu of services and it’s not just about the nails, Levoi offer a range of waxing services in a private room at the back of the salon, and even ear piercing.  There’s also the option of exclusive use of the salon for birthday or bachelorette parties, or times when you and your squad just want to monopolise the place like the girl bosses that you are.  Prices are competitive for a city centre salon and there’s parking close by meaning that you can ‘hit and run’ when you just need a polish for a big night out.

Wanna see the place for yourself?  Course you do.  You can find Levoi at 6 St Mary’s Place, Newcastle, and make sure you ask for a Bubbles Card which gets you your 6th treatment free.  You’re welcome Voyeurs.

Pixie xo

I was given an on menu nail service called One For The Road which takes 45 minutes and costs £35.

To book an appointment with Levoi call 0191 2305859

Levoi Champagne Nail Bar in #Newcastle There's a hidden gem in the city of Newcastle that's a haven for all things beauty.  Once in a while, you come across a great little place that just hits the spot, whether it's a cool suburban coffee shop, a beachfront surf shop, or in this case a super cute independent nail bar.  

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Vancouver Fashion Week FW17: Day 2

Vancouver Fashion Week FW17: Day 2

Day two of Vancouver Fashion Week kicked off with a whole host of brand new, raw talent, completely new to the VFW stage (if you haven’t yet caught up on Day 1, you can refresh your memory here).  This crop of talent is particularly exciting given the use of unusual textures and fabrication methods and a quirky new aesthetic.  Here are the highlights…

KRISTEN LEY

Sculptural leather forms with an…

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Intu Eldon Square has had something of a makeover recently; from the subtle changes in lighting, right through to the brand new Grey’s Quarter which houses a whole host of new eateries including Tapas Revolution and The Alchemist.  There’s no denying that Newcastle’s shopping mall is looking slicker than ever.

But we’re not here to talk food, this time we’re looking at fashion, and in particular, how to take key trends for  SS17 and spin them on the high street.  If the thought of trend led dressing fills you with fear, then hang on in there Voyeurs, Intu Eldon Square have their Walk in Wardrobe experience with expert styling and beauty advice and dedicated workshops, to give you a helping hand towards Spring wardrobe success.

Venue: Mall space in front of Debenhams & New Look When: Mar  24 – Apr 01

With a core collection of trends available to view in a handy wardrobe, you’ll be able to chat to a Stylist to determine the best trends and styles for your lifestyle and body shape.  Not only that, there will also be daily style talks, workshops and body mapping where you can find out exactly what body shape you are, and the clothing styles that flatter  and elongate your body.

Held daily at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, styling workshops will look at transitional pieces, key trends and styling tips – it’s literally never been easier to get free advice from a personal Stylist.

Got an event on the horizon and want to know how to look like you aced Fashion Week?  Then you’ll want to see the schedule:

24, 26, 28 and 30 March:

11am – Florals: You’ll be learning about the impact of print on your body shape, teaching you how to choose the right floral print for your shape and stature and most importantly how to style the trend to ensure you look amazing.

12pm – Swimwear Masterclass: You’ll learn all about the science behind swimwear, including how to choose the right style and shape to accentuate your assets and ensure that you feel confident and ready to go poolside.

1pm – Blush Flush: Millennial Pink is a key background trend this season, whether it’s blush nude or a deep fuchsia, Intu Eldon Square’s Stylist will teach you how to identify the right shade of pink to suit and enhance your skin tone and hair colour.

2pm – The Perfect Spring Capsule Wardrobe: You’ll be given help and advice on identifying those key seasonal pieces in order to build a selection of different looks for all occasions.

3pm – All Day Makeup: The arrival of Spring means wedding season and vacation planning are upon us.  You’ll have access to expert MUAs from all over the mall who’ll deliver workshops on how to create the perfect “5 Minute Face” as well as tips on how to ensure your makeup can stand the test of time, while remaining fresh and perfect.

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25, 27, 29, 31 March:

11am – Big Spring Occasions: Weddings, christenings, a day at the races, whatever your occasion, help is on hand to help you create the perfect look from head to toe.  Already found the perfect outfit?  Bring it along for expert advice on matching (or clashing) footwear and accessories.

12pm – Perfect Day to Evening Makeup: After work cocktails?  Expert MUAs will teach you all the tricks you need up your sleeve to take your makeup look from boardroom to dance floor.

1pm– Personal Stylist Suite: A style specific Q&A workshop where you can pitch  your fashion woes and get expert advice on bringing your look up to date.

2pm – 80’s Redux: Think 80’s glam at max volume.  You’ll explore putting together the perfect party outfit with some killer trends on the high street.  You’ll learn about how to style molten metallics and high shine fabrics to your own body shape and skin tone.

3pm – The New Athleisure: Sports luxe, Athleisure, Activewear, call it what you want, the trend for luxury sports based separates is going nowhere and here you’ll look at how to incorporate those influences into your own Spring wardrobe.

1 April:  The final day of the Walk in Wardrobe experience.  The contents will be refreshed and the Stylist will be joined by a live model who’ll be showcasing the key trends and looks for Spring.

You’ll also have the opportunity to overhaul your beauty regime and look at key makeup trends for Spring 2017 influenced by the runway but toned down for everyday wear.  The Spring Beauty Pod will host a variety of beauty retailers who’ll be on hand to pimp your look.

– Friday 24: No7 Makeovers – Saturday 25: Elemis Skincare Demonstrations – Sunday 26: Urban Decay Makeovers – Monday 27: Urban Decay Makeovers – Tuesday 28: Liz Earle Skincare Demonstrations – Wednesday 29: NYX Makeovers – Thursday 30: Benefit Makeovers – Friday 31: NARS Makeovers and GHD Hair Products – Saturday 1: NYX Makeovers

I had an exclusive VIP preview (natch) of the Walk in Wardrobe experience at Eldon Square prior to its launch this weekend, and can vouch that it’s a great place to go before hitting the shops.  With a curated selection of key trends, all laid out by retailer, it’s a good place to start if you’re looking to tap into seasonal trends.

The Walk in Wardrobe is packed out with clothes, accessories, shoes and even home styling – there’s a rose gold pineapple in there from Accessorize which I bought immediately after my visit – in a roped off area that you can peruse at your leisure so it’s a must visit if you’re lacking inspiration.

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Think of it as a curated version of the high street – the best SS17 trend conversion pieces have been selected and displayed taking all the hard work out of weekend shopping.  Take advantage of it whilst it’s there and hopefully you’ll learn something new; whether it’s how to dress for your body shape, how to create the perfect eyeliner flick or just what colour will compliment your skin tone.  If you’ve always fancied using a stylist, now’s your chance….

Pixie xo

The Walk in Wardrobe Experience at Intu Eldon Square Intu Eldon Square has had something of a makeover recently; from the subtle changes in lighting, right through to the brand new Grey's Quarter which houses a whole host of new eateries including…

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Vancouver Fashion Week FW17: Day 1

Vancouver Fashion Week FW17: Day 1

You know the big four that make up the global powerhouse that is Fashion Month and inspires everything in your wardrobe for the forthcoming season, but the next largest Fashion Week outside of this is Vancouver Fashion Week.  I’ve covered VFW for several magazines and websites (as well as Fashion Voyeur) in the past because it’s a hotbed for crazy new talent and many of the greats we know and…

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It’s about to get a little hot and sweaty up in here Voyeurs!  Can we all just take a moment to appreciate how freaking hot Megan Fox looks in her lingerie line for Frederick’s of Hollywood?!  Hot damn woman!

Fox is more than just a model for the lingerie brand that invented the push up bra.  Back in September 2016 she became co-owner of Frederick’s of Hollywood, a move which saw the actress take creative control over design and ultimately led to this – her own collection for the brand.

“In general, when I’m designing something, it needs to be something that looks good on every shape and size. You want someone who is a 32A to be able to wear the same thing who is a 36G. Everyone wants to be able to wear something that makes them feel sexy.”  Megan Fox

And it seems that “Earth’s Hottest Girl” done good.  The self designed collection is actually pretty awesome.  Fox said that she wanted to design something that “you don’t have to have the body of a Victoria’s Secret Angel to wear” – easy for her to say, she shot the campaign just five months after giving birth to her third son and looks insane.

The collection is similar in look to British born lingerie brand Agent Provocateur in that it’s sassy, less fluffy and pink than Victoria’s Secret, more edgy and sexy.  The price point is accessible too, think high street prices with a high end look.

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“When I first moved out to L.A., I was a teenager, maybe 17, and I always wanted the sexiest lingerie because I was raised in a really strict home with really religious parents. I loved Victoria’s Secret but they didn’t have the really naughty stuff that I wanted to wear. I went to the Frederick’s store on Hollywood Boulevard and bought a lot of stuff, and felt rebellious and empowered and excited that I got to wear all of this stuff that I knew my mom would die if she knew I was wearing.” Megan Fox

Seems that Fox is more than just a super vixen with a pretty face after all….

Pixie xo

Megan Fox for Frederick's of Hollywood It's about to get a little hot and sweaty up in here Voyeurs!  Can we all just take a moment to appreciate how freaking hot Megan Fox looks in her lingerie line for Frederick's of Hollywood?!  

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Finally, there’s a way for all you shoe lovers to get your hands on a piece of Rupert Sanderson craftsmanship for around £150 as the hottest collaboration of the season prepares to drop…

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This is one to get super excited about Voyeurs, Rupert Sanderson is a firm favourite of many of your favourite celebrities including Gwen Stefani, Blake Lively, Gwyneth Paltrow and J-Lo, and from April 1st, you’ll be able to grab a piece of the action on the high street.  Rupert Sanderson has teamed up with high street footwear retailer Dune to produce a capsule collection of superhero worthy shoes.  Six styles make up the collection in a variety of colour combinations, from classic peep toes to crazy coloured cut out sandals and flats, there’s something in this collection for every shoe lover out there.

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“I have always been a great admirer of Rupert’s ranges. His shoes are always beautifully crafted with great emphasis on shape and cut. Every aspect of his shoes is well balanced and just right. He doesn’t compromise. We have strived to achieve these standards, albeit a different level, at Dune. That’s why I was so excited to collaborate with him on this project.  Working with Rupert and his team on this range has been a pleasure. His creative talent and passion for getting the detail right has meant that we have a stunning range that has way exceeded my expectations. I can’t wait for the launch in April.”  Daniel Rubin, Executive Chairman, Dune London

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Whilst a pair of Rupert Sanderson main line heels would normally set you back around £500, the Dune x Rupert Sanderson collection starts at £145 with nothing priced over £185.  Sanderson’s signature scallop cut leather makes an appearance in the collection too, making it feel way more authentic that other high street / designer collaborations.  There’s one clutch bag that makes up the only accessory in the collection, available in four different colours with a satin finish, it makes it the must have accessory for Spring and Summer weddings.

Now, before you go getting all excited, the collection is available in ‘selected stores’ from April 1st – we don’t know which ones yet but you will be able to shop the collection online so just make sure you’re ready when it drops!  I predict a sell out!

Pixie xo

Dune x Rupert Sanderson Finally, there's a way for all you shoe lovers to get your hands on a piece of Rupert Sanderson craftsmanship for around £150 as the hottest collaboration of the season prepares to drop...

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The Alchemist comes to Newcastle

The Alchemist comes to Newcastle

It’s been a long time coming but The Alchemist is finally ready to open its doors to the people of Newcastle.  Taking up residence in the newly revamped Grey’s Quarter of Intu Eldon Square, The Alchemist has certainly had a buzz about it for what feels like a very long time.

I got the chance to have a snoop inside of this gorgeous (very dark) venue to find out exactly what you can expect from…

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Mark your calendars Voyeurs, there’s a brand new denim lifestyle brand arriving at selected John Lewis stores this week.  AND/OR is the retail giant’s first in-house denim brand for the modern woman, with a choice of core fits that are designed, cut, washed, sewn and finished in L.A. they’re aiming to bring upscale, high-end denim production to the British high street.

With true denim credentials, AND/OR has been created in collaboration with West Coast based denim experts Calvin Rucker.  With decades of denim experience, Calvin Rucker duo Joie Rucker (founder of contemporary brand Joie) and Caroline Calvin (previously Senior Vice President of Levi’s) – have brought a fresh mix and an L.A. vibe to the collection, elevating the quality and adding their own fashion focused edge.

“The idea for the brand came from our love of denim, it’s the foundation of all our wardrobes. I especially love how every woman adds their own individual stamp to their look through how they style their jeans.  Having built a portfolio of powerhouse own-brand labels with Iain [Ewing, Head of Design] for the past few years, we wanted to create an authentic denim range in L.A. that combined the high- end fit and finish at an accessible price point. That you could then style in your own individual way with a perfect collection of wardrobe pieces across RTW and accessories.”  Jo Bennett, Head of Womenswear Buying, John Lewis

The 90 piece collection will launch on March 22nd in 15 John Lewis stores throughout the UK (yes, Newcastle is one of them), authentic L.A. crafted denim sits at the heart of the brand and is complimented by a range of versatile womenswear, shoes, accessories and lingerie.  Designed with no particular age range in mind, AND/OR aims to provide something for everyone, with classic denim shapes and simple shirts, through to trend led cuts and festival inspired pieces.  The label channels ease and effortlessness throughout, comprising pieces that seamlessly slot into any wardrobe.

Everything across the range is accessibly priced, if Levi’s is your ball park you’ll find that AND/OR are competitively priced and matched in quality.  Denim styles are named after the places in L.A. that inspired the collection and they retail at £85 – £120 catering for sizes 26 – 34.  Subsidiary pieces compliment the denim range and reflect the relaxed L.A. style, cotton tees start at £22 and the most expensive piece in the collection is a buttery soft leather jacket priced at £250.  Sizes for these additional pieces range from 8 – 16 meaning theres still room for improvement in the sizing of AND/OR.

“With denim at the heart of AND/OR, it seemed natural to turn to the birthplace of denim on the West Coast of America. Our friends Calvin Rucker bring their L.A. expertise, craftsmanship and authenticity to the denim.  This is the first time we have launched a brand across ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes and lingerie. Although the brand starts with denim, you can then add to this to create a fully versatile collection which serves a modern wardrobe. It’s the ease of throwing on a pair of jeans, picking up the kids from the school gate, then going to lunch with a friend or bar in the evening. Those jeans will still work for you—it’s just what you choose to wear with them.”  Iain Ewing, Head of Design Womenswear and Accessories, John Lewis

Each season, AND/OR will offer four core mid-rise fits, updated in new washes and finishes.  Three additional limited edition seasonal styles will be refreshed throughout the year to cater for micro trend lovers.

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There are several boho inspired pieces in the first drop, with a nod to Stevie Nicks’ iconic seventies style.  Floaty dresses, khakis, espadrilles and trophy jackets reinforce the relaxed vibe of AND/OR, each cut is like a jigsaw piece, helping to build an interchangeable closet that makes everyday dressing straightforward and simple.

My hero pieces from the collection include the signature AND/OR logo tee (£35), Brea Selvedge jean (£120) and Venice Beach boyfriend Jean in Beach Bleach (£95).  There’ll be a post to follow on their quality and wearability.  There’s also a super cute embroidered denim jacket that’s a steal at £99.

The first drop will be available at selected (see below) John Lewis stores from Wednesday March 22nd and it’s definitely worth a look.

Pixie xo

AND/OR will be available at the following John Lewis stores: Oxford Street, Peter Jones, Leeds, Birmingham, Liverpool, Cheadle, Bluewater, Nottingham, Reading, Chelmsford, Kingston, Cambridge, Cribbs Causeway, Stratford and Newcastle.

AND/OR Denim Launches at John Lewis Mark your calendars Voyeurs, there's a brand new denim lifestyle brand arriving at selected John Lewis stores this week.  

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When it comes to skincare, I’m something of a slut.  I flit from brand to brand taking the pieces I like and cobbling them together in some sort of self curated regime.  My skin is changeable, sometimes it’s oily, sometimes it’s dry and other times it’s a bit of both – hence the sluttery.

What I know deep down but have completely suppressed, is the fact that good, healthy skin, is a reflection of not just what you apply topically, but how you live.  Every aspect of your life directly affects cellular hydration, and that’s the basis of the whole Murad skin regime.

I visited Murad at House of Fraser Intu Metrocentre this week to discover more about the range that explores the connection between skin, body and mind – something they call Connected Beauty.  What struck me immediately, is how clinical the Murad counter is.  In a beauty hall filled with prestige and luxury brands such as Tom Ford, Chanel and Acqua Di Parma, Murad stands out as being cosmeceutical.  With a stark white counter and clean, simple packaging, the brand needs no gimmicks to convey its message.

I was introduced to Murad skincare expert, Rachael (she’s worked with the Queen’s personal doctor), and given a skin analysis using a high tech facial scanner.  The machine scans for skin concerns and prioritises them in order of their appearance.  This wonderful, awful machine also has the capability to fast forward time and give a projection of how skin may appear on the future.  Horrific but also very fascinating.

After completing a basic questionnaire about my health, lifestyle and skin concerns we established that my primary and secondary concerns – fine lines and brightening –  could be improved with a glycolic peel and a selection of Murad products for home use.

If you didn’t already know, House of Fraser has a suite of treatment rooms hidden away at the back of the store, it’s a calming, tranquil oasis that could be a million miles away from the busy shopping mall.  The Murad room is bathed in soft light and there are a range of products on display.  As Rachael begins the process of the glycolic peel, she explains that this will brighten and tighten my skin, but may give rise to a little temporary redness.

The process starts as you would expect, with a deep cleanse, and once the peel is applied, my eyes are covered with a weighted mask whilst my shoulders, arms and hands are massaged.  The whole treatment takes a little over an hour and is incredibly relaxing – not at all what you would expect from a glycolic peel.  There’s no tingling sensation, no pain and personally, I have no redness afterwards although this varies from person to person.  At the end of my treatment I’m left thinking (almost out loud) “don’t stop!”  Yup, it’s that good.

Rachael makes observations about my skin during the treatment and asks about my diet, lifestyle and stress levels, all of which have an impact on skin.  She advises the use of retinol on an evening to encourage cell turnover and renewal, and gives me a batch of “youth activating” smoothie recipes (none of which require the purchase of any Murad products).

I’m also given an awesome goodie bag with a selection of Murad’s hero products and a promise of a follow up in four weeks to see how I’m getting on.  The philosophy is clear, treat the skin concerns from both the inside and the outside and you’ll see improvement.  It’s doctor led skincare with a focus on healthy, nourished, strong and protected cells.

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As I leave the counter, I’m reminded to “eat your water” by consuming a balanced diet, exfoliate regularly, and to “be kind to your mind” by cultivating emotional self awareness.  Rachael hands me a card that she’s hand selected for me as she bids me adieu, it says “Focus on your ultimate goals and not the steps getting there.”

If you’re looking to switch up your skincare then Murad is a good place to start.  Good solid foundations, a strong clinical basis and completely cruelty free; the brand is made up of products which aim to address common skin concerns with a suite of off-counter treatments available using clinical grade ingredients.  My experience with Murad was great and it certainly got me thinking about internal, external and environmental factors which could be affecting my skin.  Well worth a visit , even if it’s just for the scary skin assessment….

Pixie xo

I visited Murad at House of Fraser, Intu Metrocentre’s and was treated to a glycolic peel which normally costs £55.

Murad: The Secret of Connected Beauty When it comes to skincare, I'm something of a slut.  I flit from brand to brand taking the pieces I like and cobbling them together in some sort of self curated regime.  

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Good American – the denim label co-founded by Khloe Kardashian has arrived in the UK exclusively at Selfridges.  It’s a big deal for both the brand and the store, the reason?  It’s the first time Selfridges has carried a plus size clothing range.  With sizes from 00-24, Khloe said from the outset, the brand would only work with retailers who would carry every size throughout the range.  Result.

Not familiar with the brand?  Then get acquainted, Good American is a fashion label designed for a curvier, sexier and stronger shape.  Founded by Khloe Kardashian and Emma Grede, the brand celebrates femininity and curves.

“We believe everybody deserves to be shown off. Fashion should be made to fit women, not the other way around. Body ideals really have shifted in the last few years”  Emma Grede

The product is is actually pretty damn good.  Hand crafted in LA, no part of the process is outsourced and a lot of time has been spent getting the fit just right.  Good American jeans don’t have that unsightly gape at the back, they’re designed to give a lift and be comfortable AF.  It takes 100 hands to make one pair of Good American jeans – a fact the brand’s is proud of.

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“Emma and I both agreed there was something missing from the denim community Wehenever we bought new jeans, it was hard for us to find a pair that fit our body types, and even when we did they’d always need alterations. We knew if we both had this problem, there must be tons of girls who did too. So we set out to make a denim line that’s sexy and flattering, and made to fit you – not the other way round.”  Khloe Kardashian

On its US launch day last year, Good American sold over $1 million in jeans alone and the response has been staggering with Khloe saying people have come back for their fourth, fifth and sixth pairs after discovering just how awesome the Good American fit is.  Need a celebrity endorsement?  You won’t find Kardashian’s celebrity friends in the campaign but already it’s garnered an army of famous fans including Ashley Graham, Gabrielle Union and of course, Kendall Jenner.

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The important thing here is the size range.  Never has there been a denim range so diverse in the fashion market space.  With jackets, skirts, shorts and jeans (obvs) making up the range, in a variety of styles too, there’s never been so much choice from one denim brand.  The campaign has been applauded for featuring models representing all sizes and showing how girls of differing body shapes wear denim in real life.  Kudos Kardashian, this one’s a doozie.

The Good American denim collection launched in the U.K. this week, exclusively at Selfridges in store and online with prices starting at £135.

Pixie xo

  Good American Denim Launches in the UK Good American - the denim label co-founded by Khloe Kardashian has arrived in the UK exclusively at Selfridges.  

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If you’ve wandered through Newcastle city centre recently you’ll have no doubt noticed some big changes.  Whether it’s the difference in the skyline, or the influx of great new retailers, the rate of response to our needs as customers of this awesome city is uber fast.  We’re a nation of shoppers who enjoy lunch with friends and drinks on a Saturday afternoon and Newcastle has acknowledged that and answered the call in a big way….

Anyone who spends time in Newcastle will know that Intu Eldon Square enjoyed something of a resurgence in recent years with a new floor space addition to the mall.  A victim of its own success however, this left older parts of the mall looking dull in comparison and well, a bit boring.  Not any more, the once tired Monument entrance is now the bustling Grey’s Quarter packed to the rafters with awesome eateries and bars which stay open long after the mall has closed.

Tapas Revolution is the latest in a string of restaurants to take up residence in Grey’s Quarter; the brainchild of Spanish TV chef Omar Allibhoy, it’s one mission is to serve true, authentic Spanish food, ethically sourced direct from Spanish farms and suppliers, with no middleman.  As part of the big re-brand, I was invited along to brand new Spanish restaurant Tapas Revolution to experience a little Spanish living with a tapas and beer pairing evening

“There’s a great restaurant and bar scene in Newcastle and I can’t wait to get involved in the buzz happening here and bring a little Spanish twist to the city. Tapas Revolution in Eldon Square is my version of the lively and bustling tapas bars in Madrid, Barcelona and Seville. We can’t wait to open our doors!”  Omar Allibhoy

Omar’s menu takes inspiration from family recipes that he grew up with and Spain’s culinary culture of sharing, socialising and eating.  When we arrive he talks us that in Spain, beer is paired with food rather than wine or cocktails and that’s because the flavours marry well to compliment each other.  Beers by Estrella Galicia (natch.) are paired with each course of tapas to accentuate the flavour of spices, I’m not a beer drinker at all but I get it, real Spanish beer with authentic Spanish food, it just works.

“My passion for Spanish food is really at the heart of everything I do; my earliest memory is of watching my Mum in the kitchen cooking crème caramel. She was a great baker but a terrible cook so I took over the helm as soon as I was old enough. When I came to the UK I was shocked by the lack of Spanish restaurants and how rarely anyone I spoke to cooked it at home. I decided it was time to do something about it and so my Tapas Revolution began”  Omar Allibhoy

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Me and fellow North East Blogger Elle Blonde arrived to a super warm welcome and a round of opening cocktails spiked with chilli to ensure we stayed focused and awake.  Armed with tasting notes and a stack of Estrella Galicia beers, we were treated to Spanish tortilla, Iberico ham (some of the most expensive ham you can buy and I can vouch for how awesome this is, it’s what I cram my luggage full of when I visit Mama Tenenbaum in Menorca), patatas bravas so good you could forget you’re in a shopping mall in Newcastle and paprika smoked octopus so divine that I had to go back for thirds. Yes, thirds.

Tapas and beer pairing is like a re-awakening of my conscious mind, to me beer is beer, but after reading and absorbing the tasting notes, you really taste the top and mid notes in each beer and understand why each one is paired with a certain taste.  For the tee-totalers amongst you (that’s me too) there’s an Estrella 0.0% which is completely alcohol free, and a damn good dupe.

“Tapas is more than food, it’s part of our everyday culture: food and life are always best shared.”  Omar Allibhoy

I get the Spanish lifestyle – Mama Tenenbaum has it down to a fine art now and she’d definitely approve of Tapas Revolution, she’s quick to lambast the places that don’t quite hit the mark.  From the hanging Serrano hams to the open kitchen, the preparation and service is exactly as you would expect in Spain.  Even the tables are set up so the restaurant can receive large parties ready to socialise with really great food as the facilitator to conversation.

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Whilst we’re chatting I notice two very important things: 1. Elle Blonde and I both have seriously strong shoe game, and 2. The breakfast menu is to die for.  Boasting Ranch and Florentine Eggs, Churros and Bacon Brioche, I make a mental note to return in the AM.

The quality of the food served at Tapas Revolution is second to none, in fact, it’s probably the only ‘real’ tapas restaurant in the city,   Omar takes great pride in sourcing only the very best, authentic ingredients, meats and spices for his dishes and it pays dividends.  With another five restaurants and a list of celebrity clients as long as his flowing locks, Omar Allibhoy is the real deal.

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It’s not just beer on offer at Tapas Revolution, with a huge range of unusual cocktails and rare gins (no surprise there, gin is HUGE in Spain) on the bar menu including my favourite Mahon gin, Xoriguer (another thing I always bring back from Menorca), all served in a traditional balloon glass, exactly as they do in Spain.  Kudos Tapas Revolution, I’m really looking forward to bringing Mama Tenenbaum along to taste a little piece of authentic Spain whilst she’s here in the U.K.

Pixie xo

  Join the Tapas Revolution at Grey's Quarter Newcastle If you've wandered through Newcastle city centre recently you'll have no doubt noticed some big changes.  Whether it's the difference in the skyline, or the influx of great new retailers, the rate of response to our needs as customers of this awesome city is uber fast.  

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London Fashion Week is always exciting, it’s a hotbed for fresh talent and in terms of ‘The Big Four’, it’s the one we look to for micro trend inspiration.  It’s a great place for spotting emerging design talent and the FW17 season saw several designers make their debut, a few of whom stand out for all the right reasons.  Jessie Western showed their first runway collection this season to huge success and another young designer to break the mound is Chanel Joan Elkayam.

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Elkayam has been on my radar for a little while now, she’s an interesting girl and I’ve followed her career to date with curiosity after she contacted me a couple of years back.  Elkayam has an impressive CV and a list of awards and accolades as long as the train on her finale gown.  Whenever I read about her, I’m always curious to find out more.  The reason I’m so interested in her is that she’s just 19 years old.  Yes Voyeurs you read that right, this is a fully fledged fashion designer who not only creates her own collections, but produces her own elaborate shows, all at the tender age of 19.

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Elkayam is a Womenswear student studying at Central St. Martin’s, she’s been around on the tradeshow scene for a little while now but in 2016 the girl blew up in a big way.  Major players started to take notice, she was invited to show at Paris Fashion Week for FW16 and in doing so, became the youngest designer to show a couture collection during Fashion Month.  Since then, she’s shown at New York Fashion Week for SS17 and spoken at several conferences about women in business.  She may be just 19 years old but the girl is a powerhouse; at the 2016 New York Fashion Awards, Elkayam was awarded the ‘International Designer of the Year’ by industry professionals.

Her FW17 collection, La Sola Rosa was a story of Love and loss.  Inspired by poet Vera Brittain who was given a single red rose by her fiancé at the train station on their last day together during World War 1.  Elkayam sought to portray raw beauty, emotion, power and romantic sensuality though her collection and did this with drama and flair.

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Guests took their seats and the lights were dimmed before the show began.  Models walked the runway with a strong Dolce Vita inspired beauty look reminiscent of Dolce & Gabbana’s Sicilian princesses, a timeless red lip and a single red rose to compliment Elkayam’s debut accessory line.  A largely monochrome palette with flashes of red and tapestry brocade, the collection showcased the female form using traditional shapes with a focus on the waist using leather waspies to cinch and create an hourglass shape.

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When you’re watching a show with as many looks, comprising both a fashion collection and an accessories line, it’s hard to remember that Elkayam is still in her first year at Central St Martin’s.  Detailing throughout the collection is uniform and exquisite, her eye for detail is mature well beyond her years and whilst the shapes are simple, Elkayam clearly knows where her strengths lie.

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Personally, I’m looking forward to seeing how Elkayam’s career progresses, with preparations already underway for SS18, I’ll be back on the frow in September so keep it here Voyeurs and remember the name Chanel Joan Elkayam, you’ll be hearing it a lot more….

Pixie xo

  London Fashion Week FW17: Chanel Joan Elkayam presents La Sola Rosa London Fashion Week is always exciting, it's a hotbed for fresh talent and in terms of 'The Big Four', it's the one we look to for micro trend inspiration.  

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I’d be willing to bet that each and every one of you reading this owns at least one MAC product.  Whether it’s the iconic Ruby Woo lipstick (the perfect matte red, seriously, try it) or makeup bag staple Strobe Cream, there’s no doubting MAC is a favourite amongst Makeup Artists, Models and yes, regular people the world over.  The brand’s infamous Vival Glam collaborations have even been known to stop traffic.

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If you’re a makeup lover, you’ll have experienced the frustration of fighting through the swarms of teenagers who monopolise the MAC counter on a weekend and you’ll understand the joy of finding your perfect Mineralise foundation shade.  Yes, MAC really is THAT rollercoaster, but when you hit your stride and find YOUR hero products, you’ll sharpen your elbows and become a counter pro.

If you’re ‘makeup curious’ in that you love the thought of creating looks but aren’t really sure how to experiment, or are intimidated by the huge choice of shades and finishes, then a select few MAC counters have a little trick up their sleeve that was tailor made for you……

Enter the MAC Party.  Cue fanfare and streamers because this one has been a long time coming.  The basic concept:  Grab up to 8 of your best gals, head on over to the MAC counter and you’ll have 2 MAC Makeup Artists who’ll give you expert tuition on how to create the perfect face using MAC products and brushes.  That’s right Voyeurs, MAC just played their ace card.

I was invited along to MAC House of Fraser at Intu Metrocentre to get the skinny on the MAC Party concept and to find out what other counter services MAC offer their clients.  I met Makeup Artist Josephine who treated me to ‘Makeup in 60 Minutes’, one of the counter’s most popular services, whilst we chatted.  Because my usual look is an uber bold lip and minimal eye, we opted for the reverse; a bold eye with a dewy base and nude lip.  As Josephine got to work she told me that staff are super excited about the imminent launch of MAC Party as it’s long overdue and gives artists a chance to work collaboratively with clients to create something really Bespoke and wearable.

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Whilst we’re chatting, Josephine preps my face with Mineralise super light foundation in NW20, a shade so perfect it’s barely detectable, with a pop of ‘Softly Does It’ cream blush across my cheekbones.  In a few easy steps, we have the perfect base that’s set in place with a rose scented fixing spray.

While she gets to work on creating a deep blue eye look, Josephine tells me that MAC Party has been designed as a more in depth, tuition based service.  So rather than rocking up for a special occasion and having a Makeup Artist create a look for you, this is all about learning how to create a super effective look for yourself.  It’s still a hands on service, a Makeup Artist will demonstrate on your face in front of the mirror and then you recreate it – with support obvs – simples.  Aren’t they worried it will negate the need for a makeup service?  Absolutely not says Josephine; you can never learn enough about makeup.  With new techniques, trends and products turning over faster than the seasons change, she thinks that this is a service that equips and empowers MAC clients to learn more about what works for them and is a great way to push colour boundaries.  I’ve got to say, I’m with her on that one.

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Josephine has been with MAC for long enough to know that my signature shade is Heroine, that I’m always lingering around the blue or purple lipsticks and that I’ll push the envelope when it comes to colours so I don’t hesitate when she suggests a combo of blue liner and blue mascara to highlight my green eyes.

With the rise of online makeup tutorials and younger girls looking to makeup as a career choice, we talk about how MAC Party could help younger teenagers to achieve this and also boost confidence.  My almost teenage sister is the perfect candidate for this – and at £25 per person (which is redeemable against products) it’s not out of reach for the younger market.  Makeup lovers in this age group save their pocket money to splurge on cosmetics and if they’re getting a lesson in how to apply it at the same time, everybody’s winning right?

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In exactly 60 minutes, I’m done.  Using a blend of shades Get Physical and In The Shadows, Josephine has created the perfect dramatic, blown out eye look in a rich, royal blue.  Sound scary?  It’s really not, the blue makes my green eyes pop and it’s surprisgly easy to wear as a day or evening look as it blows out into a muted copper hue (this is where MAC Party comes in handy as it teaches you how to wear shades you might not normally consider).

Got a special occasion on the horizon and want to take the hard work out of the prep?  ‘Makeup in 60 Minutes’ is the perfect solution, not only will you leave with the perfect face based on your brief, but you’ll also be given a crib sheet with every product used for reference.

There’s also an express makeup service which focuses on one particular aspect of makeup, think killer eyes, or the perfect base and contour and then you top up with the bits you’re best at.  MAC Party is the special one; girls nights out, Batchelorette parties, birthday parties, basically any reason you can think of to get a group of friends together to bond over skincare and makeup.  It’s the service you never knew you needed, until now.

When I come to leave, I’m given a box containing sample sizes of everything we’ve used today and a few little extras (Matte Royals lipstick anyone?) to experiment with at home.

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Try it out for yourselves Voyeurs, its makeup, it’s personal and bespoke to you, whether it’s a natural, barely there look, or a bold, heavy made up look that you prefer, MAC’s expert Makeup Artists are there to help and advise.  All counter services are bookable at a cost which is redeemable against products so think of it like this, if you know you were going there to buy a product, why not book a service anyway?

And with that little gem, I bid you goodnight….

Pixie xo

I visited the MAC counter at House of Fraser Intu Metrocentre and was given a complimentary Makeup in 60 Minutes service which costs £55.  MAC Party is available at selected stores only and is bookable at this store by calling 0370 192 5043

  Coming Soon: The MAC Makeup Party Concept I'd be willing to bet that each and every one of you reading this owns at least one MAC product.  

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The LONDUNN + Missguided collection landed this week and it’s best described as a fusion of athleisure and fierce street wear.  With a focus on sports luxe fabrics such as jersey, velour and heavy cottons, and on trend shapes including bell sleeves, open backs and wide rip cords, the collection is aimed not at street stylers, but at those who want to emulate the look of street stylers.

Model Jourdan Dunn is the driving force behind this collaboration, as Creative Director she’s on a mission to inspire confidence in women.  Using her own personal style as inspiration for the looks in the collection, Dunn set out to create shapes that are not only bang on sub-trend, but flattering to the female body too.  The campaign is a celebration of female empowerment with a girl squad hand selected by, and featuring Dunn herself.

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Stand out pieces include the bell sleeved bodysuits, velour track pants and the logo-ed to the max underwear in jersey or mesh.  Building on and fusing the micro-trend for whale net tights above a denim waistband and the obvious Calvin Klein visible underwear trend.

LONDUNN + Missguided is the younger sister to Beyonce’s Ivy Park, where Ivy Park is something you’d definitely wear to the gym, LONDUNN is something else.  It’s for when you want you want to show off the body you got in the gym, for when you want your fierceness to do the talking.  Dunn’s mantra and famous tattoo ‘You owe it to yourself, set the world on fire’ provides the strap line to the campaign and a signature for the collection.

With prices starting at just £12, it’s definitely affordable, there are some sequins in the first drop too for those of you who can’t do without a bit of bling in their wardrobe.  The most expensive piece tops out at only £60 in this first release of the collection making it one of the most on trend, affordable celebrity collaborations around.  The collection is a grower too Voyeurs – I wasn’t overly keen on it when I was sent a preview but the more I looked at it, the more I could see it infiltrating my wardrobe.  I have the bell sleeved body suit and the velour pants already…..

Pixie xo

The full collection is available to view and buy now by clicking the Shop Now link above.

    LONDUNN + MISSGUIDED BY JOURDAN DUNN shoppable now The LONDUNN + Missguided collection landed this week and it's best described as a fusion of athleisure and fierce street wear.  

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Newcastle in the Sky Dine by Flight Experience

Newcastle in the Sky Dine by Flight Experience

Remember Dine by the Tyne – the death defying restaurant experience that saw diners suspended 100ft above the ground to enjoy cocktails and dinner prepared by some of the regions best chefs?  Ok well maybe it wasn’t quite as dramatic as that, the point is, it’s back with a new name and some awesome new restaurants on board.

Returning for 2017 as Newcastle in the Sky, this ‘dine by flight’…

View On WordPress

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There’s more to Jo Malone London than fancy candles and fragrances as I found out during their signature Scent Experience.  I was invited along to the Jo Malone concept store at House of Fraser, Intu Metrocentre to discover more about the brand, their immersive Fragrance Combining, and the latest release, Myrrh & Tonka to the Black fragrance range.

Jo Malone is one of the UK’s most famous fragrance houses, founded in 1994 and sold to Estée Lauder in June 2006 in its entirety.  The brand continues to thrive with a legion of fans who can’t get enough of Malone’s famous scented candles (I’m one of them) and eclectic fragrances.  But did you know that Jo Malone stores and concessions offer in house experiences as well as those signature products we’ve come to know and love?  I spent the day with Jo Malone London to discover more about just what’s on offer on counter….

1. First up, the Jo Malone Signature Arm and Hand Massage.  This is no ordinary hand massage, it’s an immersive experience with a layered introduction to the range – there’s absolutely no pressure at all to buy from the brand afterwards – something I really like.  You’re sat at the beauty bar and given a branded velvet take home pouch for your jewellery before the treatment begins.

First of all you select your wash (all of the washes are a triple threat, they work as a handwash, bath foam and shower gel), then your body cream, and finally your cologne.  You’ll be given a lesson in the art of fragrance combining; if you’re familiar with Tom Ford you’ll know about the Fragrance Wardrobe, it’s a similar concept at Jo Malone as all fragrances are designed and crafted to work in harmony.

Once you’ve selected your trio, you’re treated to a foamy wash, which coats the skin in a base scent, then an arm and hand massage with a thick, luxurious body cream, before it’s locked in with a spray of cologne.  I like a heady, masculine scent so I opted for latest release, Myrrh & Tonka; a warm, woody mix with vanilla and tonka bean base notes.  Long lasting and unlike anything else around.

You’ll leave with arms as light as air, mine felt fresh and cool, kind of like the sensation you get when you use Physio Gel, and the feeling lasts long after you’ve left the counter.  This experience is open to anyone, it’s something you can walk on to counter and ask for, book online as a complimentary service, or make a purchase and you get a voucher to re-visit the counter for it.

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2.  The Jo Malone Birthday Club.  How I missed his one I’ll never know Voyeurs, sign up to the Birthday Club by giving the day and month of your birth which is recorded against your client record and you’re in for a treat…..

Now before you get yourself all excited, the disclaimer with this one is that it’s not a yearly thing, it’s “from time to time” and the deal is a mini Jo Malone party on counter for you and five friends.  You’ll arrive on counter and be greeted with champagne and chocolates, a signature arm and hand massage is included as well as deluxe samples for the birthday bunny and regular samples for your pals.  Not bad right?!  Well it was my birthday in January and I’m late to the table but I’ve been invited back for this which I fully intend to do, because, well you know…..

3.  Jo Malone Bridal.  There’s a whole bridal themed experience available to brides-to-be, from selecting a fragrance to scent your wedding, to gifting for bridesmaids; select from a range of options to give your big day those special little touches.  Brides can choose to visit the counter with their prospective groom, mum or whole bridal party and the counter will cater to your needs.

If you’re not familiar with the brand, or if you’ve admired it from afar, this is a great introduction to Jo Malone and the products and services available.  Whether it’s home fragrance or skin fragrance the team at House of Fraser are helpful and attentive and when I say there’s no pressure, there really is no pressure.  You know me by now Voyeurs, I’d tell you if you were in danger of being cornered.  The counter at House of Fraser’s Concept Store is perfectly equipped for mini treatments, it’s a spacious area occupying the front aspect of the store meaning you’re away from the hustle and bustle of the main store and can enjoy browsing in peace.

So, with Mother’s Day right around the corner, where better to start for inspiration than the Jo Malone Concept Store on House of Fraser Intu Metrocentre?  Be warned though Voyeurs it’ll be difficult to leave without one of this signature ribbon tied bags for yourself too……

Pixie xo

All Jo Malone counter services can be booked via the brands website or by calling the Jo Malone Counter at House of Fraser Intu Metrocentre on 0370 192 5371

  Jo Malone London Scent Experience There's more to Jo Malone London than fancy candles and fragrances as I found out during their signature Scent Experience.  

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There’s nothing quite like bridal couture to make you truly appreciate the talent of a great designer, and a wedding deserves something extra special right?  Particularly when it’s yours…

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My most recent Belle Bridal column discussed the rise of the Couture Bride and how it’s no longer restricted to the super rich.  With the likes of Inbal Dror, Flora and Berta readily available to the masses, it’s not a difficult task to create a stunning visual effect with the right dress and with boutiques up and down the country hosting their own trunk shows, finding a couture supplier has never been easier.

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The house of Berta has been attracting attention from not only brides, but fashionistas globally, the one and only reason for this incredible success story is the product itself. BERTA completely disrupted the fashion industry, by presenting a couture level of quality, with retail prices that are closer to those of mass production brands.  With a whole new aesthetic for bridal wear, the fashion industry just couldn’t afford to ignore this emerging powerhouse brand.

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Not only a bridal wear house, Berta incorporates its famous luxury bridal line, a brand new RTW collection and it’s latest offering, a diffusion bridal line which was launched at this season’s couture showcase.

Newcastle bridal boutique Si are the only Berta stockist in the North and they’ll be holding a Trunk Show to launch the brand new Muse collection from the house of Berta.  Muse is vintage inspired, with a modern boho vibe, it’s couture for sure, but it’s wonderfully current.  It’s a younger, fresher collection with more sex appeal – nude tulle, intricately embroidered bodices with plunging necklines and soft, flowing fabrics that appear lighter than air.

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Si will be holding an exclusive viewing of Muse by Berta at their Newcastle boutique and viewing is strictly by appointment.  April 28th – 30th  is your chance to get a sneak peak at Muse and to try on and even purchase your dream wedding gown.  Not only that, but Si are 10% off Muse by Berta to brides who choose to purchase their gown throughout the event.  Appointments are limited so if you like the look of Muse, make sure you get in and try on a few styles to find the right one for you.

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With couture as dreamy as this, who needs a wedding?  I’m thinking I need to throw me a White Party….

Pixie x

To book your appointment contact Si Bridal by emailing [email protected] or call 0191 4878145

      Introducing Muse by Berta at Si Bridal There's nothing quite like bridal couture to make you truly appreciate the talent of a great designer, and a wedding deserves something extra special right?