Tag Archives: Catherine Balavage

George Michael Releases New Single "True Faith" For Comic Relief

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“Over the years, George has been the most tremendous supporter of Comic Relief. Out of the blue one year he gave us all the cash from the release of ‘As’, his single with Mary J Blige. Then he did a brilliant Little Britain ‘Lou and Andy’ sketch – which ended with the inevitable insult slung at him – “I don’t like him.” But most excitingly, he’s giving Comic Relief all the money from his new single, ‘True Faith’. It’s always so moving when people stick with us year after year – and we’re thrilled and delighted about the song, and the wonderful video that goes with it. We promise we’ll use every penny we make from it to save and change lives in Africa and all over the UK.” – RICHARD CURTIS

‘True Faith’ arranged and produced by George Michael was a hit for New Order in 1987 and was written by, Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, Stephen Morris, Gillian Gilbert and Stephen Hague who have also very kindly donated their proceeds to Comic Relief along with the publishers’ mechanical royalties.

The single, released through Aegean Records via Absolute Marketing & Distribution / Universal, will be available digitally on the 13th March and physically on the 14th March; both will also include an instrumental version of the track as a b-side. At 12:01am on March 19th – after the ‘True Faith’ official music video has been premiered for Comic Relief – the single and video will be available for purchase as a bundle exclusively through iTunes. Red Nose Day is on Friday 18th March, go to www.rednoseday.com to find out more. Comic Relief spends all the money raised by the public to give extremely poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged people in the UK and Africa a helping hand to turn their lives around.

To stay up-to-date with George Michael news, visit his official website at
George Michael’s website or become a fan at Facebook.com/GeorgeMichael

The Frost Girls with Bethanie Lunn – How to Walk in High Heels!

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Friday February 18th 2011 – the first day of Fashion week. A flurry of high fashionistas making their way to the central point of all things chic – the quintessential week commencing all factor fabulous a La Mode.

 

The ladies of Frost Magazine were fortunate enough to be invited to a presentation hosted by none other than Beauty and Fashion pioneer Bethanie Lunn, on her talk ‘How to Walk in High Heels.’ Held at the exquisite May Fair Hotel Suites, we were greeted courteously by an array of cup cakes and bellinis – plus endless champagne for a gathering of high fashion women.

Bethanie presented her deep narration on high heel technique in a friendly, professional manner – highlighting the points us ladies all wanted to know. How to maintain posture, the do’s and don’ts of street chic walking and the imminent importance of looking after our precious feet. Lunn’s beautiful outfit was complemented by a delicious pair of daring pink shoes – in true illustration of her love for the femme fatale look – simply divine!
Sipping on our delectably fine glasses of champagne, we sat ourselves down in what can only be described as a ‘dream’ suite – presented with a narrative of Lunn’s acute vision and knowledge of good footwear, which in turn focussed on more paired up physical activities.
Lunn is simply a lady of 21st Century modernism, encompassing all the essential elements of style. Her profound knowledge and individual approach to the Beauty and Fashion industry is a true inspiration for a catalogue of fashion daring women. Establishing herself as a Fashion Editor and Stylist by the mere age of 22 is an accomplishment to marvel at. Her carefree manner, together with a strong vision for all facets of fashion, makes her presence all the more interesting and educational.
Through the course of the presentation, Lunn taught us the some tricks of the feline posture trade – breathing techniques, how to prevent slipping on untoward surfaces (which involves scratching the surface of the sole) and the ‘heel to toe’ step – enabling less distress to the front part of our feet. It wasn’t long before all us high heel wearing ladies took to the Bethanie Lunn Catwalk, to show what we had learned.
For someone who has walked in high heels since I was 16 (the height disadvantage made me do it!), Lunn’s talk really enlightened me and my fellow Frost girls on how important it is to look after our feet. In the hustle of everyday city life, we often choose to brave the pain of our delicate toes, without thinking of the consequence.
As fashion wary as we are, it’s imperative to maintain a friendly balance. Lunn masters and teaches the techniques to combining the necessary care along with an even level of manageability. By the end of her session, the once wobbly-heeled Frost girls were ready to purchase the highest pair of heels Louboutin had to offer!

EDUN NEW YORK FASHION WEEK – LET ME TELL YOU A STORY …..

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HUGH JACKMAN, HELENA CHRISTENSEN, MICHAEL STIPE AND ALI HEWSON  ATTEND EXCLUSIVE FASHION SHOW IN NEW YORK

Edun presents the FW11 Women’s Collection “Storytellers and Liars,” the second collection for Edun under the creative direction of Sharon Wauchob. The theme “Storytellers and Liars” explores storytelling as it changes over time in various cultures. When a story is passed down through generations it becomes a reflection of the teller and develops a new meaning that can be seen as real or fantasy.

Who is the storyteller and who is the liar?, the clothes ask light-heartedly. When does a story become a lie? The pieces translate this notion through prints and the juxtaposition of fabrics with carefully selected iconic references repurposed to create a feeling that is completely fresh and new.

The palette includes pops of saturated blues and golds alongside neutral tones of camel, saddle, and licorice transformed into authentic, effortless prints.

Fluid and rigid fabrics are combined together, from layered, airy silks to textured boiled wools and chunky knits. Silhouettes, such as long, easy skirts that hit just below the knee and cropped knits and jackets are staples of the collection. Standout pieces include cascading dresses printed in saturated colors and reconstructed Fair Isle patterns in rich earth tones.

The collection also carries Edun’s personalized, signature handcrafted detailing, specifically knotting and embroidery. Iconic Macintoshes, parkas, and bomber jackets top off the collection paired with easy frill skirts and shirtdresses that are reworked with mixed fabrics and prints in silk and organic poplin cotton.

Launched in 2005 by Ali Hewson and Bono, Edun is a not-for-profit fashion company founded on the premise of trade for aid as a means to alleviate poverty through sustainable employment and growth. Its aim is to encourage trade in Africa and raise awareness of the possibilities there.

The Most Powerful People on Twitter

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I Love Twitter – I’m at @Balavage- so I was excited when i launched the inaugural i Twitter 100

The List reveals the most influential people in Britain on Twitter

Sarah Brown tops list ahead of Stephen Fry


i, the first new national newspaper for 25 years, has today launched the inaugural
i Twitter 100 – a list of the most powerful Britons on Twitter. The list, to be published in the paper today (Tuesday 15th February), is the first time ever that the most influential, rather than most followed, people have been ranked.

The top ten includes commentators from the worlds of comedy, philanthropy, music, fashion and broadcasting with Sarah Brown topping the list. Surprise entries in the top ten are Umair Haque (5), a corporate strategist and blogger, and Zee M Kane (8=) who is editor-in-chief at The Next Web.

The i Twitter 100 top ten is below

1.Sarah Brown
2.Richard Bacon
3. Eddie Izzard
4. Stephen Fry
5. Umair Haque
6. Russell Brand
7. Tinchy Stryder
8= Hilary Alexander
8= Zee M Kane
10. Fearne Cotton

i, the UK’s most innovative paper, worked with the PeerIndex to compile the list using methodology that worked out who holds the most influence and power, not just who has the most followers. The workings are based on the number of re-tweets each person generates and the language associated with them.

Commenting on the results, Independent and i Editor-in-Chief Simon Kelner said;
“Five years ago, Twitter was regarded as a passing fad. Today it is a phenomenon, influencing world events and news stories in every sphere of life. This inaugural list recognises the power of Twitter and those with the most influence.’

Highlights from the list include:

· Sarah Brown, White Ribbon Alliance, (1) knocks Stephen Fry (4) off his perch.

· Richard Bacon is highest DJ (2). Radio 1’s Fearne Cotton (10) beats Chris Moyles (70=).

· Sir Alan Sugar (14=) beats arch rival Piers Morgan (61=).

· Jonathan Ross (27=) beats Piers Morgan (61=) in the battle of the presenters.

· Boris Johnson (36=) is highest politician on the list, followed by ex MP Dr Evan Harris (66=), Tom Watson, Labour MP for West Bromwich East, (68) and John Prescott (93). Sally Bercow, wife of the Speaker of the House is included (91).

· Katie Price, model and business woman features in the list (88=).

· Tinchy Stryder (7) is the highest music entry, beating Lily Allen (36=) and Mark Ronson (97).

· Businessmen include Duncan Bannatyne (12=), Sir Alan Sugar (14=), Theo Paphitis (54=) and Peter Jones (77=).

· Surprise entries in the top ten are Umair Haque (5), a corporate strategist and blogger, and Zee M Kane (8=) who is editor-in-chief at The Next Web.

Breakdown of results by sector

Media

· Digital writers feature highly, with the Guardian’s Jemima Kiss (14=), Bad Science writer Ben Goldacre (18=) and The FT’s Tim Bradshaw (48=) all making the list.

· Broadsheet journalists were well represented with The Telegraph’s fashion guru Hilary Alexander (8=), The Independent’s Johann Hari (20=), The Guardian’s Alan Rusbridger (22=), The Sunday Times columnist India Knight (42=) and Caitlin Moran (96) making the top 100.

· Alastair Campbell, the now author and diarist, is the only PR entry (66=).

Broadcasters

  • C4’s Krishnan Guru-Murphy (24=) comes out top of the TV list, followed by Jonathan Ross (27=).


  • Jonathan Ross (27=) beats Piers Morgan (61=) followed by Jon Snow (70=).


  • BBC correspondents include Robert Peston (31=) and political correspondent Laura Kuenssberg (80=).


  • Richard Bacon is highest DJ (2), followed by; Radio 1’s Fearne Cotton (10), Annie Mac (87) and Chris Moyles (70=).

Comedians

  • Eddie Izzard (3) comes top, followed by Russell Brand (6), Jimmy Carr (31=) and Simon Pegg (36=). Josie Long is the only female comedian (54=).


Music

  • Tinchy Stryder (7) is the highest music entry, followed by instrumentalist Imogen Heap (14=), Lily Allen (36=), Marina Diamandis, Marina & The Diamonds, (61=) and Mark Ronson (97).


Fashion

  • Highest fashion entries are for Telegraph’s Hilary Alexander (8=), fashion bloggers Liberty London Girl (34) and Style Bubble’s Susie Lau (36=).


Politics

  • The politicians to make it are Boris Johnson (36=) and John Prescott (93=). Sally Bercow, wife of the Speaker of the House, is also in (93=). Guido Fawkes (27=), political blogger, makes the top 100.


Internet

  • Digital and corporate strategists include Umair Haque (5), Zee M Kane (8=) and entrepreneur Martha Lane Fox (77=).


  • David Rowan, editor of Wired (70=), and Mike Butcher (14=), editor of TechCrunch, both make it into the top 100.


  • Bloggers include financial journalist Felix Salmon (12=) and Don Tapscott (18=).


Business

  • Three out of five Dragons are included, Duncan Bannatyne (12=), Theo Paphitis (54=) and Peter Jones (77=).


Academics

  • Richard Dawkins (22=), British ethologist and evolutionary biologist, and Tim Harford (20=), The Undercover Economist / Financial Times, are both on the list.


Sports

  • Sportsmen include golfer Ian Poulter (51=), cricketer Michael Vaughan (91), footballer Rio Ferdinand (95) and cricketer Kevin Pietersen (100).

The Finest Rump In The UK

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Nope. It’s not time for The Rear of the Year awards yet. Fiona Bruce and Ricky Whittle can still rest easy in their denim.

Instead, a new online delivery concept has been launched by acclaimed chef Richard Turner and butcher James George. Their new venture, The East London Steak Co., offers the finest naturally-reared beef from selected rare breeds to customers within the M25 area.

Turner and George source the highest quality beef from British farms. Every animal is hand-picked and selected using a strict criteria, which ensures all cattle are grass fed, have been traditionally farmed and reared in an environment which meets the highest standards of welfare.

The East London Steak Co. only use five main rare breeds of beef, including Dexter, Galloway, Longhorn, Shorthorn. The beef is dry-aged on the bone for a minimum of 28 days – or longer on request – which matures the beef, creating a greater concentration and strength of both flavour and taste.

The company prides itself on giving a bespoke service to its customer by cutting each steak to their exact specifications, which is then hand-wrapped, boxed and delivered within 24-hours. Every order has an accompanying provenance card, outlining the breed, the exact farm location and the butcher who cut it.

Turner is a restaurateur and chef who has worked with renowned chefs including Michel Roux Jnr, Pierre Koffman and Marco Pierre White, while George has worked as a butcher for over 10 years. Their professional background brings a unique partnership to the business, as they both understand first-hand the necessary components needed to enhance the quality and taste of the beef.

Turner says: “There is a huge demand for high-end beef. Consumers are extremely quality aware and like to know where their meat is from and how it is reared, and one thing’s for sure, great beef only comes from cattle that have been well bred and well looked after.”

George added: “We’re dedicated to fulfilling our customer’s requirements by offering much more than a delivery service. We feel it’s our duty to champion quality meat, not only because of our respect for the British farming industry, but also because the consumer wants it.”

The East London Steak Co. offers a range of selection boxes that include a choice of seasonal based cuts. A growing variety of wine, beers and condiments – including dripping and preserved bone marrow – are also available, making the ideal accompaniment for their unrivalled steaks.

Make Your Valentine Count With Smilers

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Ah, l’amour.

Just before Spring comes boinging out of Winter’s clutches and a young man’s fancy turns to thoughts of love – or more likely, peeling their beloved’s lingerie off with their teeth – comes Valentine’s Day.

I won’t bore you with the history, but it came about after a Christian martyr called Valentine forgot to give his beau a felled ox or some such, so put together a hastily hand-drawn etching and grabbed a bunch of daisies pulled from the nearest horse trough stop – or something like that. Since then, countless love-lorn people have sent anonymous cards in the hope of winning said crush, only to find them go off with someone else who had the foresight to sneakily gain credit for someone else’s hard-earned efforts, cash and card.

Anyway, if you want to enhance your chances of getting your girl – or boy – to disrobe sensually for you, prove just how much you care about your loved ones by attaching your very own Smilers stamp to your Valentine’s card, courtesy of our very own Cupids at the Royal Mail.

Smilers allow you to personalise your post by combining one of your own photos with a Royal Mail stamp – guaranteed to make your card or love letter stand out from the rest and thus stop anyone else claiming ownership!

Smilers can be ordered online, where after uploading a chosen image, users can pick from a range of different stamp designs and background themes, with the option to create either round or rectangle shaped Smilers, and designs available to suit all occasions. Royal Mail also recently launched their first Smilers app which lets people instantly create their own personalised postage by downloading photos taken on their iPhone.

The Smilers app is free through the App Store and, as well as grabbing your lovers attention on Feb 14th, is also an ideal way for people to share celebrations such as birthdays, weddings and new arrivals.

Smilers are available in sheets of either 10 or 20, and prices start at just £7.80 for a sheet of 10 1st Class stamps. With secure payment through PayPal, customers will receive the sheets within five working days.

The Healthy Way To Drizzle On Pancake Day

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It may just be me, but Shrove Tuesday feels later this year.

We have to wait until the 8th of March before people try and remember how many eggs to add to how much flour and whether it was right to include a knob of butter in the mix. Hint: It’s not – unless I’ve been doing it wrong all these years.

But don’t forget the real lemon juice, or that great plastic Jif lemon which used to make great water pistols when empty. Can you still get those? (Sigh, nostalgia). And syrup – lots of.

And now there is a healthy alternative for those looking to watch their waistline. Raymond Blanc swears by it, rather than at it, like I do when I miss the pan when flipping, but that’s another story. Suffice to say the cat’s fur was never the same.

Sweet Freedom is an award winning, natural, healthier sugar substitute. It’s won Great Taste Gold stars (Foodie Oscars) so tastes delicious – well, obviously. But because it’s made 100% from fruit, it has 25% fewer calories than sugar, and, as an added bonus, it’s sweeter, so you can use 25% less too.  On a more serious note, it has a low GL (Glycaemic Load), which means it won’t cause blood sugar highs and lows, so it’s suitable for all the family –  including diabetics.

It’s completely natural and made from just apples, grapes and carob with no colourings, flavourings or preservatives added.  It’s a good option for anyone looking for a healthier, great tasting, lower calorie alternative to sugar and other sweet syrups.

Sweet Freedom can be found in 300ml drip-free squeezy bottles from Tesco, Waitrose (both Free From section), Ocado, Booths, Holland & Barrett and health food stores for the  RRP of £2.99. There’s no word yet as to whether they match the Jif lemons for portable and potent post-use water pistol fire power. Time will tell.

www.sweetfreedom.co.uk

Denise Van Outen spoils daughter with Zilli. {Celebrity}

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Most celebs are spoilt by lavish dinners created by the world’s top chefs – and now their babies are getting the same treatment.

Denise Van Outen’s nine-month-old baby, Betsy, has been enjoying organic meals prepared by celeb chef Aldo Zilli. However, celeb baby or not, eating can still be a tricky business when you’re still a little shy of your first year. Denise has commented that at most meal times, much of the food ends up all over her.

Still, more power to Aldo for being the first celebrity chef to create a range of organic baby food. And if you fancy introducing your little cherub to good food and celebrity circles until they’re old enough to go to The Ivy, Baby Zilli launched this week and is available at all good supermarkets.