Wednesday 27 July 2011

British Hairdressing Awards 2011 Finalists Announced - Who will be The One?

British Hairdressing Awards 2011 Finalists Announced Who will be The One?

Hairdressers Journal International is pleased to announce the finalists for the nine regional and six specialist categories for the British Hairdressing Awards 2011.

The British Hairdressing Awards, launched back in 1984 by Hairdressers Journal International and sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, have celebrated and rewarded the best of British hairdressing creativity for 27 years, and are universally recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of the hairdressing world.

To enter the competition, hairdressers working in salons throughout the United Kingdom must submit four images, that meet the relevant criteria, and reflect current trends. Depending on the hairdresser’s location, they can enter their regional category – Eastern, London, Midlands, North Eastern, North Western, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Southern or Wales & South West. If their talents lie within a particular discipline, they are also able to enter one of the six specialist categories – Afro Hairdresser of the Year, Artistic Team of the Year, Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year, Men’s Hairdresser of the Year, Newcomer of the Year or Schwarzkopf Professional British Colour Technician of the Year.

The first round judging takes place to establish the six finalists in the regional and specialist categories with members of HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards Hall of Fame, along with previous British Hairdressing Award winners and respected hairdressers judging the work. Judges cannot confer during the judging process, and each mark all entries independently, with the score sheets being handed to a team of independent auditors, who then process the results to find the six finalists in each category.

In addition to the 15 regional and specialist categories, the most hotly contested award is for the British Hairdresser of the Year title. Entry to this award is by nomination only, and in 2011 there are eight nominees for the title – Andrew Barton, Errol Douglas, Tim Hartley, Mark Hayes, Gary Hooker & Michael Young, Akin Konizi, Mark Leeson and Angelo Seminara.

“Each year the standard of entries in all categories becomes more creative and inspirational,” comments Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Hairdressers Journal International, Jayne Lewis-Orr. “British hairdressing is perceived throughout the world as being the best, and the British Hairdressing Awards recognise and reward creativity and excellence in all hairdressing skills.”

To go forward to the second round, the six finalists in each category have to produce a second set of four images, which will then be judged as a complete set of eight. The same guidelines are adhered to as before, with the winner being announced at the biggest event in the hairdressing industry’s calendar, a glittering awards dinner presented by a leading media personality at the Grosvenor House Hotel, a JW Marriott Hotel, Park Lane, London on Monday 28th November 2011.

2011 British Hairdressing Awards Finalists

Regional Finalists

Eastern Hairdresser of the Year
Christopher Appleton George’s Hairdressing, Leicester, Leicestershire
Paul Falltrick Paul Falltrick Hairdressing, Romford, Essex
Terri Kay Mark Leeson Hair Body & Mind, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Nathan Jasztal Silhouette Du Barry, Chelmsford, Essex
Angelo Vallillo Zullo and Holland, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Kai Wan p.kai hair, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

London Hairdresser of the Year
Efi Davies Toni & Guy, Covent Garden, London
Ben Moth &
Valerie Benavides Brooks & Brooks, London
Richard Mannah Toni & Guy, Sloane Square, London
Desmond Murray Atherton Cox, London
Cos Sakkas Toni & Guy, Brompton Road, London
Jamie Stevens Errol Douglas Salon, London

Midlands Hairdresser of the Year
Sarah Bowron & Aesthetics, Solihull, West Midlands
Aidan Bowron
Anya Dellicompagni Francesco Group, Stafford, Staffordshire
Nick Malenko & Royston Blythe, Compton, Wolverhampton
Ashley Gamble
Katie Mulcahy Lisa Shepherd Salons, Birmingham
Peter Prosser Peter Prosser Hairdressing, Hereford
Sean Tetlow The Colour Room, Stockport, Cheshire

North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year
Lindsay Burr The Goodys Group, North Molton, North Yorkshire
Rebecca Dickenson & The Vanilla Rooms, Bawtry, Doncaster
Adele Bourne
Joseph Ferraro Halo, Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Hannah Gordon Paul Gordon, Scunthorpe, South Humberside
Julian Holland The Mark Hill Salon, Kirk Elle, East Yorkshire
Marcus King Hooker & Young, Wynyard, County Durham

Northern Ireland Hairdresser of the Year
Julie Cherry Shane Bennett Salon, Hillsborough, Co. Down
Kevin Kahan Kevin Kahan, Bangor
Keith Kane Keith Kane Hair International, Carryduff, Belfast
Sharon Malcolm Sharon Malcolm Hairdressing, Newtownards, Co. Down
John Morrison & Carolyn Russell J L Morrison Hairdressing, Belfast
Michael Quinn Michael Quinn Hairdressing, Belfast

North Western Hairdresser of the Year
Carly Aplin CRC Cutting Room Creative, Leeds
Adam Bryant Ethos Hairdressing, Northern Quarter, Manchester
Amie Dunn Andrew Collinge Hairdressing, Manchester, Lancashire
Verity Faichen Daniel Gray Salon, Kendal, Cumbria
Melanie Jefferson Savvy, Whitehaven, Cumbria
Marcello Moccia Room 97 Creative Hairdressing, Wakefield, West Yorkshire

Scottish Hairdresser of the Year
Neil Barton Neil Barton Salon, Edinburgh
Faruk Mohammed & Hair by JFK, Edinburgh
Sandy Ciard
Suzie McGill Rainbow Room International, Uddingston
Kay McIntyre McIntyres, Dundee
Gordon Ritchie U-Concept, Glasgow
Janer Stewart Angels, Aberdeen

Southern Hairdresser of the Year
Seung Ki Baek RUSH Hair, Epsom, Surrey
Leo Bancroft Leo Bancroft Salon, Weybridge, Surrey
Bruno Marc Giamattei Marc Antoni, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
Simon Grigg Toni & Guy, Winchester, Hampshire
Paul Hawes Review, Petersfield, Hampshire
Gary Gill Monroe Hairdressing, Leatherhead

Wales & South West Hairdresser of the Year
Craig Chapman Craig Chapman Hair Design, Launceston, Cornwall
Jess Gaylard Jamie Stevens Hair, Woolavington, Somerest
& Teresa Heaney
Joshua Goldsworthy Goldsworthy’s, Swindon, Wiltshire
Ken Picton Ken Picton, Cardiff Bay, Wales
Steven Smart Smart Est 73, Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerest
Louise Smith Toni & Guy, Salisbury


Specialist Categories

Afro Hairdresser of the Year
Craig Chapman Craig Chapman Hair Design, Launceston, Cornwall
Patrick Forini Toni & Guy Sloane Square, London
Junior Green Junior Green Hair & Beauty, London
Alero May Atherton Cox, London
Jamie Stevens Errol Douglas Salon, London
Michelle Thompson Francesco Group, Stafford, Staffordshire

Artistic Team of the Year
FAME Team
Haringtons Art Team
HOB Salons
Marc Antoni
Mark Leeson Artistic Team
RUSH Artistic Team

Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year
Johanna Cree Brown Trevor Sorbie, London
Leonardo Rizzo Sanrizz, Guildford, Surrey
Skyler McDonald seanhanna Putney, London
Chie Sato Toni & Guy Covent Garden, London
Indira Schauwecker Toni & Guy Covent Garden, London
Anne Veck Anne Veck Salons, Oxford, Oxfordshire

Men’s Hairdresser of the Year
Russell Crane Brooks & Brooks, London
Tracey Devine Angels, Aberdeen, Scotland
Jon Redman Atherton Cox, London
Jim Shaw Essensuals Men, Billericay, Essex
Jamie Stevens Errol Douglas Salon, London
Ross Strong D&J Ambrose, Pinner, Middlesex
Jody Taylor Toni & Guy, Covent Garden, London

Newcomer of the Year
Kelly Craven-Salvatelli Toni & Guy, Salisbury
Ryan Harris Angels, Aberdeen, Scotland
Sophia Hilton Brooks & Brooks, London
Jasmine Redstone RUSH Croydon, Surrey
Ryuta Saiga Toni & Guy, Sloane Square, London
Donna Tovey p.kai hair, Peterborough

Schwarzkopf Professional British Colour Technician of the Year
Claire Chell Francesco Group, Stafford, Staffordshire
Francesco Fontana Toni & Guy, Sloane Square, London
Gary Hooker & Hooker & Young, Gosforth Park, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Michael Young
Mark Leeson Mark Leeson Hair Body & Mind, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Christel Lundqvist HOB Salons, London
Dorothy Sturgeon Shane Bennett Salon, Hillsborough, CO. Down

Salvatore Parfums launches Attimo Pour Homme

ATTIMO POUR HOMME

The Concept:
For a man, who savours every instant of life with a passion and style, because a man’s life is thrilling. Atttimo Pour Homme carries the intensity of life’s decisive moments with the impeccable all Italian style of Ferragamo.

The Packaging:
The Attimo Pour Homme flacon, by renowned designer Sylvie de France, exudes pure masculinity. Its refined and cubical structure is glorified by an elegant narrow matte strip with a gleaming black Attimo logo. The soft grey glass lends a chic and urban feel and underlines the warm and intense structure of the fragrance, whereas the cubic cap with its dark silver insert adds strength to the bottle. The Salvatore Ferragamo logo glimmers in red at the base of the flacon.

The outer packaging of Attimo Pour Homme communicates strength and character, but at the same time a distinctive elegance.

The warm white textile embossed paper recalls the refined texture of a Salvatore Ferragamo man’s shirt. The silver band and top add to the box modernity and masculinity, whereas the three embossed bands recall the shape of the flacon.

The cardboard used is ecologically certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

The Communication:
A masculine and elegant man in a beautiful and refined context which emphasizes the beginnings of a special moment. An intense instant, a special Attimo, one of those that makes a man’s life thrilling to be lived. A moment sealed with the impeccable style of Salvatore Ferragamo.

Alessandro Gassman is the face of Attimo Pour Homme.
Known as one of Italy’s greatest actors, he perfectly embodies the elegant Italian style of Salvatore Ferragamo as well as the ideal of Mediterranean masculine beauty.

He is not only known for his career but also for being the son of Vittorio Gassman, one of the most outstanding representatives of Italian cinema worldwide. This enforces even more the historic relationship of the Ferragamo brand with the cinema.

The Fragrance:
Attimo Pour Homme is a fresh and sensual woody oriental fragrance which embodies the masculine facets of Salvatore Ferragamo’s distinctive elegance.

An irresistible first impression of fusing freshness opens the fragrance combining aromatic notes of Marjoram, effervescent Cardamom and sparkling Mandarin.

In the heart notes a comforting spiciness of Saffron conveys intensity together with a modern touch of Pimento.

A powerful drydown of sensual woods such as Patchouli and Vetiver intensify the masculine character of the fragrance and diffuse their sauve and smoky tonalities. Ambery Cistus Labdanum and soft White Musk endow the fragrance with extreme sensual oriental facets.

Olfactive family: Woody-Oriental

Product Range:
40ml Eau de Toilette Spray £36.00
60ml Eau de Toilette Spray £47.00
100ml Eau de Toilette Spray £64.00
150ml Shampoo & Shower Gel £21.00
75ml Deodorant Stick £21.00
100ml Aftershave Lotion £42.00

Expect to see these in your favourite UK retailers from October 2011

Tuesday 26 July 2011

Hotter Comfort Concept launches new range of holiday shoes

Hotter Comfort Concept has launched its brand new range of holiday shoes that are light and easy to pack, comfy enough for everyday and stylish for any occasion.

With cool sandals for beach holidays, sporty styles for city visits and smart, comfy heels for those special holiday nights out, there's a Hotter option for every type of holiday.

Careful footwear selection can be the key to a happy holiday and no matter what you are doing, or where you are travelling, comfort is essential.If you have bad feet, you do not have a good holiday.

"When luggage space is at a premium, versatile style is essential and comfort can't be compromised, you need to pack smart and pack Hotter shoes for your holiday," said range and merchandising director, Paul Sayers.

"We'll be making 1.6 million pairs of shoes in our UK factory this year, and every pair will have polyurethane soles which are filled with millions of air bubbles, making them incredibly lightweight - so perfect holiday essentials to pack to beat those excess baggage fees."

These same air bubbles act as tiny shock absorbers as the wearer walks, creating an enviable feeling of walking on air and making Hotter shoes some of the most comfortable ever made. But that's not the end of the Comfort Concept, because Hotter's experts carefully hide a myriad of comfort features in every pair of shoes they make.

Luxuriously soft linings, hidden space for toes to wiggle (EDITOR: Bliss!) and gentle cushioning to hold heels in place come as standard, but what takes the new Hotter shoes to the next level is the extra special attention the team makes to ensure they look good too, with handcrafted details, fashionable colourways and on trend styling.

Hotter's holiday shoe collection starts with a selection of sandals just ideal for the beach; gladiator style Livia is on trend and fashionable, with touch close fastening it is easy to slip on and off; classic Easy is completely adjustable with two touch close fastening straps to the front and a buckled sling back, strap.

Leanne is Hotter's holiday shoe for a sightseeing break because it's lightweight, comfy and the upper mesh will keep feet cool when the temperature rises - weighing 216g it's perfect for packing.

If customers can only pack just one holiday shoe then Hotter's design team have selected Shake as the perfect all-rounder thanks to its supportive, breathable leather upper and light supportive soles.

Hotter designs, makes and sells comfortable shoes for women and men. Ladies shoes are available in sizes 3 to 9 with some half sizes, extra fit and EEE fittings. Men's shoes are available in sizes 6 to 12, with some half sizes and have a generous fit.

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Monday 25 July 2011

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Menopausal skincare essentials

Your skin is a good indicator of your overall health and wellbeing. Fluctuating hormone levels at the menopause can play havoc with your skin, leaving it dry, dull and wrinkly. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to help your skin look its best, whatever your stage in life.

In the Summer 2011 issue of The Menopause Exchange newsletter, dermatologist and anti-ageing expert Dr Sam Bunting has some advice on keeping your skin looking good during and after the menopause. She covers how the menopause affects the different layers of your skin, ways to improve your skincare routine (with product examples), the benefits of trying out different procedures (e.g. dermal fillers) and how to make positive changes to your lifestyle.

“Skin is one of the first parts of the body to show signs of ageing and can leave women feeling self-conscious and lower their self-esteem,” says Norma Goldman, founder and director of The Menopause Exchange. “There’s no single way to combat these changes, but a combination approach can help. In her article, Dr Bunting has useful practical advice for women seeking to improve the appearance of their skin around the menopause.”

The Menopause Exchange is completely independent – it’s not sponsored by any companies and is funded purely by subscriptions from individuals and healthcare professionals. Other articles in the Summer 2011 issue include continuous combined HRT, herbs at the menopause and alcohol and smoking in relation to the menopause.

Visit The Menopause Exchange website at www.menopause-exchange.co.uk.

For more information on The Menopause Exchange, write to The Menopause Exchange at PO Box 205, Bushey, Herts WD23 1ZS, call 020 8420 7245, fax 020 8954 2783 or send an e-mail to norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk

Thursday 21 July 2011

Liberate reveals almost half of women teased about their looks consider cosmetic surgery

Liberate, the new cosmetic surgery group, has been completing some public research around some shocking topics, with the most notable revealing that almost half of the women consulted who were bullied at school have considered cosmetic surgery in order to 'fix' themselves.

The 3000 British women between 18 and 30 years-old who participated in the research were asked if they had ever been bullied, teased or targeted about their appearance, to which 47.45% answered yes and 52.57% answered no. Out of the women who answered yes to the first question, 43.5% of them said they would consider cosmetic surgery to 'fix' the problem.

These results from the Liberate public research show at some point around half of the women surveyed were bullied, and half of them would consider getting cosmetic surgery because they believe this would 'fix' the issue which had caused them to be bullied in the first place.

Liberate believes this is shocking, as people who are being bullied should be equipped with the proper tools to deal with it financially, physically and psychologically instead of opting for cosmetic surgery without at first making an informed and responsible choice.

The research was conducted by One Poll in February 2011 in order to record women's feeling about their appearance and their attitudes towards to cosmetic surgery. Liberate wanted to explore issues young women face surrounding cosmetic surgery, look at current trends and find out what young women know and don't know about surgery.

FACTFILE:
Liberate is designed as a service that "liberates" the consumer by allowing them to choose their cosmetic surgeon and by giving them access to their surgeon from the very first consultation and through the entire process including aftercare.

Unlike other cosmetic surgery providers, Liberate don't agree with the use of "patient coordinators" or salespeople. It wants its clients to get to know the surgeon before the operation allowing them to make an informed, responsible choice.

Without the tools needed to make responsible choices cosmetic surgery can end up costing people financially, physically and psychologically, Liberate aims to give people the power to choose, providing them with a new, safer approach to cosmetic surgery.

Liberate surgeons are all extremely experienced and skilled, and are also members of BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) and/or BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons).  With over 60 clinics across the UK, theree's no reason why patients shouldn't be able to choose a highly qualified surgeon near them.

www.liberatecosmeticsurgery.com

Wednesday 20 July 2011

Pandora Jewellery Presents New Unforgettable Moments, via the Jewellery Hut

Pandora jewellery, the highly popular jewellery brand, has unveiled its next collection of unforgettable Moments.

Brand new additions to its ever-popular charm bracelet range have been announced ahead of the full Autumn/Winter 2011 collection.

Both collectors and newcomers alike are sure to embrace stunning new pieces that will allow the wearer to continue telling their story moment by moment, in a way unique to Pandora.

The new Moments range includes new styles of bracelet, including a precious white gold bracelet decorated with a sparkling diamond lock and leather bracelets now available in shiny pink and lustrous purple. Also available are two sterling silver bracelets specifically designed to feature clips.

New double clips represent another new beginning, allowing wearers to connect two Pandora bracelets together. Dangling dropper charms exist alongside sterling silver charms decorated with 14ct gold, diamonds and cubic zirconia.

Finally, the extensive collection of colourful Murano glass beads in Pandora’s box expands to include designs featuring pretty star patterns, cute love hearts and bold contrasting colours.

Since it was founded back in 1982, Pandora jewellery has become a worldwide jewellery phenomenon, particularly during the last decade when its central charm bracelet concept became a hit in Europe and the United States.

Today, its collection of Moments and other jewellery items – including rings, earrings and necklaces – are available both in stores and online, including at popular UK jewellery website the Jewel Hut.

For more information on Pandora jewellery, visit the Jewel Hut at www.thejewelhut.co.uk.

Tuesday 19 July 2011

18 Days to Little Black Dress Success

It’s nearly that time of year again. The stores will soon be filling up with Christmas gifts and party invitations will soon be arriving on a daily basis. But all you can think about is losing a few pounds to get back in to your favourite dress! Don’t panic, with Lytess you can trim down in just 18 days.

Lytess, the makers say, is clinically proven to reduce hips and thigh measurements and all you have to do is wear one of three versatile products. Woven into the fibre of the clothes is a unique formula, containing active ingredients caffeine and Shea butter. This is known as ‘cosmeto-textiles.’

By repeatedly wearing the products for 8 hours a day over 18 consecutive days, the caffeine in the garment fibres is released every day, stimulating the breakdown of fat. The Shea Butter nourishes, moisturises and softens the skin leaving it feeling silky smooth. So you can even wait until the beginning of December and still trim down on time for Christmas.

The range includes a full length legging, a Capri length legging and a short. The garments are versatile and can be worn during the day either under your clothes or as part of your outfit and can even be worn in bed so you can lose centimetres as your sleep.

The Lytess Slimming range is clinically proven to substantially reduce the hips, thighs and moisturize the skin in 18 days. 77% of 20 trial subjects experienced significant centimetre loss up to 3.1cm on the thighs and 54.5% experienced loss of up to 5.1cm on the hips.

This Christmas wow all your friends when you walk into your office party and share your secret to slimming success – Lytess!

(EDITOR: Of course, you will also need to watch your calorific intake and participate in exercise to ensure that you do lose weight before Christmas)

Sunday 17 July 2011

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Thursday 14 July 2011

Summer shorts and hotpants sparkle this year with Dremel

Last year’s trend for distressed denim shorts and hotpants is enhanced this year with a little sparkle. Sanded to reveal patches of wear, this season’s trend adds flat-backed jewels to bring you glittering glamour. All you need is your Dremel multi-tool and Versatip soldering iron, and you’ll be stepping out in sexy beach style this Summer. Simply follow our step-by-step guide below and don’t blame us for all the attention you’ll get!

Step One

Fit your Dremel 300 multi-tool with the sanding band & mandrel. Slide the piece of scrap wood into the pocket to support the area you wish to work on and protect the layers of fabric beneath. Use it to create a worn effect on the edges of pockets and on some of the seams, re-positioning the scrap of wood as necessary.

Step Two

Slide the scrap of wood down the inside of the shorts, positioning it behind each area you are going to work on. Take your multi-tool and sanding band, then distress patches of the fabric in rough patches to create the on-trend worn areas of the moment. You can also use a different grit to get smoother effects. Sand down to reveal the threads of the cloth and continue until the desired effect is achieved.

Step Three

Fit the hot blower head into the Versatip and set it to a low heat. Using the picture as a guide, arrange the large gems to suit the feature of your shorts e.g. around the seams of the pockets and hold over each gem until the glue melts and the gem fuses to the fabric.

Step Four

When using very small gems along the side seams or the tiny pocket, it is possible that the hot blower head may scorch the fabric. To avoid this, fit the soldering tip into the Versatip, touching it to the gem to fuse it to the fabric.

Materials required:

Dremel 300 multi-tool and Sanding Band & Mandrel 13mm grit 60 (407)
Dremel Versatip cordless soldering iron with soldering tip 201
Denim shorts
Hot fix gems, 5mm and 3mm
Flat piece of scrap wood

Difficulty rating :
One star – easy

For more information visit www.dremel.co.uk

Wednesday 13 July 2011

Debenhams to sponsor Miss Ireland Beauty Pageant 2011

Debenhams has announced it will be a sponsor of the official Miss Ireland Beauty Pageant 2011, as this year's title fashion sponsor. As the leading department store in Ireland, Debenhams will be dressing and styling all the 30 contestants from around the country throughout their pageant journey.

Karen Nason spokeswoman for Debenhams Ireland said: "Debenhams is delighted to be involved in this year’s Miss Ireland event. It celebrates our country's beautiful women and the winner has the opportunity to represent Ireland in the Miss World Beauty Pageant held in London this October. We are delighted to help them on their path to success and be involved with what could be a life changing experience."

Debenhams is an iconic department store group, established well over 200 years ago. Debenhams has a strong presence in Ireland. It has over 11 stores in Republic of Ireland and a further 5 in Northern Ireland. Debenhams products are available online at www.debenhams.ie and key product categories include womenswear, mens clothes, childrenswear, home, health and beauty and offers.

Its customers enjoy a unique and differentiated mix of exclusive own bought fashion brands including Designers at Debenhams, international brands and concessions.

Designers at Debenhams include the likes of Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Erickson Beamon, FrostFrench, Henry Holland, Roksanda Ilincic, Betty Jackson, Jonathan Kelsey, Ben de Lisi, Julien Macdonald, Melissa Odabash, Jane Packer, Pearce Fionda, Preen, Janet Reger, John Rocha, Jonathan Saunders, Lisa Stickley, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.

Marks & Spencer Celebrates Five Years of Post-Surgery Lingerie

This summer marks five years since Marks & Spencer became the first high street retailer to launch its own collection of feminine and pretty post-surgery lingerie.

The range was developed in response to a customer letter sent to Stuart Rose, the then CEO of M&S, which outlined the challenge of finding pretty, affordable lingerie suitable for wearing, post-surgery. Stuart Rose took action by challenging the M&S Lingerie Department to develop a range tailored to meet these needs, and so M&S launched its groundbreaking collection in the summer of 2006.

To celebrate this important anniversary, M&S has published a guide to Post-Surgery Bras, created in conjunction with Breakthrough Breast Cancer, on its website. The downloadable PDF offers suggestions as to which styles of bras may be most suitable for women after surgery, explains why the right bra is so important and highlights the different components of post-surgery bras. The guide can be downloaded from the ‘lingerie features’ area of www.marksandspencer.co.uk.

In addition to the guide, April saw the high street favourite raise further funds for Breakthrough Breast Cancer, as it launched its 2011 collection for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. The range focuses on versatile, on-trend monochrome pieces and 30% of sales will be donated to the charity.

M&S is dedicated to supporting women affected by breast cancer, offering an extensive range of post-surgery lingerie, which is updated each season. The retailer raises over £2 million for Breakthrough Breast Cancer each year via donations on a wide range of products in October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, employee fundraising, Christmas card sales and a Change 4 Change scheme, which converts foreign and outdated currency into funds for Breakthrough.

Tuesday 12 July 2011

Rudell the Jewellers Showcase Mikimoto’s Newest Collections Rarely Seen Outside of Japan

The formation of a pearl is one of nature’s miracles and it was long believed man could never match it, until in 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto developed a technique for the cultivation of pearls and set about building the finest pearl manufacturers in the world. In doing so he changed the face of the jewellery market and made his name synonymous with luxury.

Rudell the Jewellers were delighted to showcase Mikimoto’s newest collections and a special selection of one-of-a-kind jewellery rarely seen outside of Japan. The event which was held on the evening of the 22nd June was a resounding success.

Greeted with champagne and canapés upon arrival, guests for the evening were then able to try on and gather in-depth information about their favourite piece of jewellery. The relaxed atmosphere in the beautiful surroundings of the Harborne, Birmingham, showroom, allowed guests to enjoy a more engaging experience of these most luxuriant of jewels.

An extraordinary selection of Akoya and South Sea pearls were on view, all carefully selected for colour and size from the top 5% of all the cultured pearls in the world. It is this attention to quality and beauty that ensured all the pearls bearing the Mikimoto name delighted the discerning eye of all those who attended.

Managing Director Jon Weston was on hand all evening, delighting in the obvious pleasure of all guests, “It has been another wonderful evening at Rudells, we are very pleased to be able to share our evening and this beautiful selection of fine jewellery with our close friends and clients.”

Full details of the ranges that were on view are available from Rudells. Tel: 0121 427 1904, view at www.rudells.com.

Rudells website contains a wide range of jewellery from diamond rings, necklaces and earrings to bracelets and watches. There are many sections dedicated to new and previously owned products and sections for all types of occasions like wedding and engagement rings.

Rudells High Street Jewellers currently have two showrooms one in Wolverhampton and the other in Harborne, Birmingham.

Monday 11 July 2011

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New from Littlewoods, Europe!

Littlewoods Europe has announced the launch of its fantastic new collection for autumn 2011, which will be available on its websites.

The new season collection will launch with in excess of 10,000 new lines on offer, comprising 5,000 new fashion lines for the whole family, including women, men and children. In addition there will also be new lines of shoes, accessories, electrical, childrens toys and great new season pieces for the home.

In addition to this the new collection for autumn 2011 will include an increased range from the popular menswear brand Goodsouls, a heritage collection from kidswear brand Ladybird and more choice than ever before in Littlewoods Europe's Savior range in sizes 8 to 28. There will also be the addition of the new women's jeans range 'confident curves', which feature a silhouette smoothing tummy control panel.

The Littlewoods Europe fashion range will feature a number of key fashion trends for womenswear including 70s, vintage fair, beatnik and colour pop, which is continuing from the summer collection.

A spokesperson for Littlewoods Europe said: "Our new season's collection is our best yet. With thousands of new products and some great new brands, our customers have more choice than ever before. We have interpreted key cat walk trends, like pleats and tweeds to produce a very wearable range of clothing, with key on trend pieces plus great value basics, for customers to update their wardrobes for the new season."

FACTFILE:
Littlewoods Europe launched on 27th August 2009 is aimed at women who want the convenience of home delivery from one of their favourite British on-line retailers. The delivery cost is €5 regardless of size of order. Delivery is within 10 working days, with 28 days home approval guarantee. Littlewoods Europe currently delivers to 25 European countries including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romanic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

The Littlewoods Europe site features over 17000 product lines, from core categories of clothing such as womens dresses, womens swimwear, sandals, footwear, toys, kidswear & homeware.

Littlewoods Europe is part of Shop Direct Group who is the UK's largest online and home shopping retailer with sales of circa £1.7 billion.

Brands within the Shop Direct Group portfolio include www.Very.co.uk, www.Woolworths.co.uk, www.LittlewoodsIreland.ie, www.LittlewoodsEurope.com, www.Additionsdirect.co.uk, www.Choice.co.uk, www.kandco.com and www.isme.com


Serious Collectors Wrist Watch Auction Bolsters Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter Reputation

On Monday 18th July 2011, Renowned Birmingham-based auctioneers Fellows Auctioneers will be holding one of the UK’s largest auctions of Vintage and Modern Wrist Watches this year to comprising of 600 items.

The Auction will take place in Birmingham's famous Jewellery Quarter. Pieces are to include Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe.

Whether you are a watch collector or someone looking for that perfect timepiece (what a gift they'd make!) there will be something of interest with estimates ranging from £200 up to £50,000.

Stephen Whittaker, Managing Director at Fellows said: “This is one of the largest auctions of wrist watches in the UK this year and is certainly our largest ever wrist watch auction. We are really excited we can bring an event of this size and quality to Birmingham; helping the Jewellery Quarter to gain global exposure as a part of the UK that is open for business. There is something in this auction for any watch collector and there are some sensational lots to view in the online catalogue”.

One particular lot with exceptional rarity is a 1969 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, the ‘Paul Newman Daytona’ estimated at £30,000 - £40,000. Described as ‘the vintage sports watch to own! This is one of the original early models, with a highly sought after black and cream exotic dial.

Those looking for a more elaborate purchase could consider the large selection of diamond dialed and encrusted watches by Frank Muller and Jacob and Co.

Another spectacular item is the gentleman’s Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date watch with diamond dial and bezel estimated at £40,000 to £50,000.

Viewing of the catalogue is highly recommended and can be seen online at http://www.fellows.co.uk/finewatchauction.

Rarer losts also have complete 360 degree images to help prospective buyers inspect the items. The catalogue is also available on the Fellows Apple iPad app available from the App store.

FACTFILE:
Fellows are one of the UK’s oldest auctioneers, and are based in the heart of the famed Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, UK. It was established in 1876 and remains a family business to this day.

Fellows’ iPad app can be downloaded free from the Apple store or by visiting www.fellows.co.uk

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Tuesday 5 July 2011

Why Hotter feet can be happy feet: Hotter Comfort Concept Shoes reveals office staff opt for comfort

Hotter Comfort Concept Shoes has revealed that ties, killer heels and sharp suits are a thing of the past with the average office worker now opting for a dressed down look according to new research by the comfort shoe brand.

The image of smart office workers is being replaced by employees more likely to be wearing comfortable shoes, t-shirts and casual trousers.

When planning what to wear for a day at the office Britons are more likely to consider their own comfort than worrying about tottering in heels. Nearly half (49%) saying they wear shoes to work that are comfortable with an additional 32% saying they wear practical smart work heels in the office.

But over one third of women wear different shoes for their commute - indicating that their work shoes may not offer the ultimate comfort for a walk, bus or tube ride to the office.

Company dress codes now often allow casual smart comfort in the office which is great news for bosses and staff alike as more than half of those surveyed said they worked better if they were comfortable with what they were wearing and nearly half said that a casual outfit made them more confident in the work place.

Paul Sayers, product design director from Hotter Shoes, who was behind the research into 3,000 working Brits said: "The evidence is clear to see, comfort has officially made a comeback. We make shoes that feel like slippers, so it's great to hear the majority of workers say they feel more confident and work more productively when they feel comfortable in what they wear.

"As comfort specialists we make sure that every pair of our shoes, whether smart work heels or casual comfy commuter-wear, is designed to combine comfort and style. We have always believed in the power of comfort and this proof underlines our commitment to making the nation's feet happy."

Only one third of women wear a shirt to work. Two thirds say they dress more casually now than they did 10 years ago with nearly all saying things had changed from 20 years ago.

Summer was also the time when most staff took a more casual approach to their wardrobe.

Most admit that they only look smart and wear smart shoes at work twice a week although over 83% said they made more of an effort if they have a meeting.

FACTFILE:

The company, established in 1959, is now one of the most successful production facilities anywhere in the world. The 'Comfort Concept' in every pair includes features such as smooth internal seams; removable insoles; soft leather uppers and soft padding. The 1.3 million pairs of shoes designed and made in Hotter Comfort Concept's UK factory each year have shock absorbing soles which contain millions of air bubbles that make the shoes incredibly light and give a feeling of walking on air.

Hotter Comfort Concept shoes and sandals are sold direct to customers via its 100 seat call centre; www.hotter.com, 15 Hotter Comfort Concept stores across the UK and via 200 independent retailers.

It's essential for your hair

Indulge your senses and discover the route to beautifully soft, smooth hair with this deep conditioning treatment from Herbal Essences.

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Just smooth this deliciously creamy mask through hair from root to tip after shampooing, and leave for three to five minutes. The result: silky smooth locks that you will want to smell and touch all day long. Use once a week to help maintain that gorgeous smooth shine, no matter what season it is!

Take a walk on the smooth side with Herbal Essences; an experience not to be missed!

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Try Herbal Essences Smooth & Soft Collection; this fresh and fruity range has been created especially to combat the factors that lead to frizz. It delivers just the right amount of moisture so hair looks luscious and full of life!

Shampoo

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Take a walk on the wild side (and let Herbal tame your locks...)

Monday 4 July 2011

GUESS whose coming to H. Samuel online?

H. Samuel is now offering the entire UK GUESS watch collection online. This is the first time that the complete UK GUESS range has been made available online at H. Samuel and offers many benefits to consumers, including greater choice and competitive pricing and the opportunity to browse the entire GUESS watch range in one place.

H. Samuel is committed to offering consumers the largest possible range of fashion watches and delivering the best service possible. With over 150,000 visitors to the website every week, H. Samuel is a major player in the fashion watch and jewellery market and perfectly positioned to offer such a broad range of products to the consumer.

GUESS and H. Samuel have worked together to ensure the collection is kept up-to-date and that all new releases will be available online at launch. This means you can view the entire, up-to-date GUESS watch collection in one place and choose from the complete range in the comfort of their own home, office or on the go. You can then choose to have your purchase delivered to your nearest H. Samuel branch, to your home or sent to a loved one as a gift with gift packaging provided.

Shalina Ganatra, who is the Head of Multi-Channel for H. Samuel, is delighted to be able to offer such diversity of price and depth of range to H. Samuel’s online customers: "We always like to offer our customers as much choice as possible and this was the perfect opportunity for us to give that to them and the fact that it is a well-known and prestigious brand such as GUESS is the icing on the cake."

This is good news for fans of the famous fashion brand and an opportunity for consumers who haven't yet discovered the glamorous brand to enjoy the full range available. With something for everyone and every look, consumers can enjoy styles such as the GUESS Mini Prism White Stone Set strap watch with its sparkling dial and the stunning gold-plated Vista or the elegant Balcony range from among the whole GUESS collection.

Included between these two extremes is a collection of some of the finest fashion watches from one of the world's leading fashion brands. Offering a wide selection of watches for men and women, GUESS represents sexy, adventurous style that offers consumers the glamour of Hollywood with a dash of European style.

Originally from the South of France, the driving force behind the Marciano brothers' GUESS brand was their love of the American California West combined with a European sensibility, passion and style. Today, the GUESS brand has grown to be one of the largest and most successful fashion lifestyle brands in the world. In addition to apparel & watches the GUESS brand’s other categories include jewellery, handbags, footwear, sunglasses and perfume.

FACTFILE:
H.Samuel is the UK's most recognisable High Street Jeweller with over 340 stores and a retail website at www.hsamuel.co.uk. Featuring an incredible range of designer watches, H.Samuel also has a stunning range of jewellery, collectibles and gifts for all occasions, offering something for every taste and style. H.Samuel is part of the Signet Group, the world’s largest speciality retail jeweller.

Sunday 3 July 2011

Show goes on for Birmingham's Rudell Jewellers following death of boss Anthony Rudell

Rudell Jewellers has been the place to go for generations of families wanting to mark special occasions.

But now the famous firm must face the future without the man who has helped to cement it in the heart of people across the Midlands. But while the company moves on to a new chapter without Anthony Rudell, who died last month after being at its helm for more than 40 years, boss Jon Weston insists the show is going on and the future is bright.

Mr Weston says: “We talked extensively about what the future would be when the time came that anything happened to Anthony. “We knew it would happen one day, we just always hoped it would be much further in the future. We very much put things in place.

“I was made deputy managing director two years ago and took over the reins in April last year. “The idea was that he still picked the bits he still enjoyed doing. “We miss him greatly but we are lucky we had put things in place so when the time came the transition was smooth.

“He had always said to me that when the time came, to dust ourselves off and get on with it. He said the show must go on and that it’s business as usual.”

Mr Weston had worked with the firm for 21 years before he was handed the reins of the business in 2010, with Mr Rudell continuing a hands-on role as chairman.

He was recruited in 1989 before becoming a fellow of the Gemological and Diamond Grading Association at the age of 21 in 1989. Recognising Mr Weston’s talent for jewellery, Anthony mentored Jon and he was promoted to manager in 1994 and directorship followed in the Millennium year.

The pair continued to work and develop the company together as a team, and Mr Weston says it is this foundation of friendship and shared visions for the future of the brand that will see its success continue.

“As far as the business is concerned, the unique personal service we offer will remain exactly the same. This is a well-oiled machine and as they say, if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.”

Mr Rudell, known as Tony or “Roundy” to friends died last month at the age of 64 after a stroke at his Edgbaston, Birmingham, home. Born in Birmingham in 1946 to Justin and Etta Rudell, he was involved in the family’s Wolverhampton-based jewellery business from a very young age and was fascinated by the jewels and trinkets that his father brought home.

His father started the business in 1938 on Valentine’s Day as a seller of leather and fancy goods. At the start of the Second World War Justin was enlisted and served in the Warwickshire regiment.

During 1940 while Justin was recovering from a bout of influenza he met his future wife Etta who later helped develop the business with him.

The company moved into jewellery in 1950 and Tony showed a keen ambition to join the business. He began his career at the age of 20 after working with other independent jewellers.

In 1981 the company expanded further when the adjoining premises on the other side of the store became vacant, before Tony continued the growth of the business in 1986, purchasing a second base in Harborne, Birmingham and has undergone similar expansion and is now three times the original size. Mr Weston said his inspiration in the business that he adored will never be lost.

“I am going through the trauma of losing someone so close but then it kicks in the wish and determination to fulfill his plans and carry the torch,” says Mr Weston. “This was more than just a business to him and I am so passionate about it. “His wish was that we carried on the business exactly as it was and I am determined that is exactly what we will do.”

Rudells Online: www.rudells.com

Rudells website contains a wide range of jewellery from diamond rings, necklaces and earrings to bracelets and watches. There are many sections dedicated to new and previously owned products and sections for all types of occasions like wedding and engagement rings.

Rudells High Street Jewellers currently have two showrooms one in Wolverhampton and the other in Harborne, Birmingham. Please visit them for a warm, friendly service and to view our quality jewellery ranges, prestigious watch brands and giftware.

(EDITOR: As a fellow Brummie, please let me give my condolences to the Rudell family and the staff of the firm)