Semibreve Supper Club - The Geordie Christmas Banquet

I love a good supper club and the ladies behind Semibreve are certainly going from strength to strength! I was present at the inaugural supper club last September and was highly impressed by combination of classical music and delicious, inventive food provided by Annie Ball, a classically trained musician and Pia Castleton, Head Chef and foraging expert.

This time the supper club (the Geordie Christmas Banquet) was being held at St Luke's Church in Jesmond, which was decorated superbly with fir tree branches and lighting creating a festive path, and the exquisite detail of the table  decorations (sheet music as napkin rings) and place names. This was a much bigger affair than the first event, with around forty guests seated around long banqueting tables. Upon arrival we were handed a Bees Knees cocktail, a heady mix of Mead, ginger Prosecco and lemon peel, I couldn't wait to get my hands on the menu. We were seated and then treated to Rachmaninoff's Prelude in G# Minor Op. 32 No 12, beautifully played by Annie on the grand piano, then festive tunes on the fiddle by King Cole, a folk group consisting of Annie's sister Ruth, Paul Knox and Kevin Lees. Everyone was definitely getting into the Christmas spirit. Then we heard a Christmas Medley with more traditional songs (Away in a Manager, Ding Dong Merrily) then an upbeat, toe-tapping set including Davy Davy Nick Nack and Soldiers Joy.

After a wonderful welcome, the starter was served - Herrings wi'Leeks - potted Craster kippers with stottie cake toasts, poached leeks, fennel and chickweed. The kippers were buttery and melted in the mouth,; it was very similar to a terrine or confit and it was perfectly complimented by the flavours of the herbs. Vegetarians had Stottie 'n' Soup - a stunningly purple spiced roast beetroot soup served with yoghurt, poached leeks and stottie toasts (the best beetroot soup I've ever tasted). As soon as the last spoonful of food passed our lips, the music started up again, this time a piper solo (The Carrick Hornpipe) and a rousing, heart-warming Geordie set which included The Blaydon Races, Bobby Shaftoe and Billy Boy. 

There were three main course options - Ham 'n' Peas Puddun, Broon Ale Pie and North Sea Fish Supper. My intermittent vegetarianism had fallen by the wayside at this point so I opted for the Ham, beautifully flavoured pork belly (sourced locally from Knitsley Farm Shop), with smoked ham hock in a mustard, wood sorrel and cider sauce reduction (being veggie is hard). I tried the Broon Ale Pie, full of puy lentils and truffled mushrooms, Wylam Ale and dense, moist pastry - amazing (I have to try and get the recipe for that). Our musicians then donned sunglasses and momentarily transported us to Hawaii by playing Let's Talk Dirty in Hawaiian, highly entertaining and definitely gave me winter travel ideas. Then dessert was served, Singin' Hinnies made with love crumbs (I need to get some of these) with brandy butter, caramelised chestnuts and pomegranate syrup. By this point I was bathing in the afterglow of so much amazing regional food (and I'm always the one saying that British food is rubbish - maybe we need to go back to traditional recipes to discover the long forgotten gems). 

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The evening finished with a traditional Ceilidh, those of us not accustomed to the dance were taught the basic steps and then thrown into it, accompanied by the fantastic band, I luckily managed to work off some calories and meet some lovely people. The sage tea at the end settled my stomach after an evening of new discoveries, both musical and food-wise and left me wanting more. Luckily, the next event is a feast of epic proportions called Nature's Prelude, part of February's Eat! Festival of Food on 26th February in the beautiful surroundings of the Lit & Phil. Thanks to Pia, Annie and King Cole for an amazing, unforgettable night!

Candle & Bell Short Film Night - Tyneside Cinema

There’s been a lot going on in the region recently for short film fans. There was the launch of the Sunderland Short Film Festival earlier this month, organised in collaboration with DC Shorts, which was a big success and has helped to put the region firmly on the global short film map. Fans of the genre may already be aware that the Tyneside Cinema is the venue for a monthly short film night, hosted by local TV and film production company, Candle & Bell.

Maria Caruana Galizia, Producer and Managing Director, says that the reasons for setting up the event were twofold: to give filmmakers the opportunity to share their films with people outside the typical film festival audience, and as a place for short film fans to hang out, meet like-minded people and discuss the films. It’s also great for feature film addicts (like me) to discover a whole new world of films. Submissions are always welcome from filmmakers (there’s no deadline!) For more information on how to submit your film go to the Candle & Bell website.

Tickets are only £3 and four short films will be screened on the night, covering topics as wide-ranging as lost love, alcoholic piano tuners, pantomime dames and flying machines.

The Candle & Bell Short Film Night will take place at the Tyneside Cinema on Monday 26th January.

*Published on Narc Magazine online

Yves Saint Laurent exhibition heading to the North East!

Already hugely overexcited about the Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibition at the V & A (I’m going on the opening day in March), I have to admit to pinching myself on Sunday when I heard that the Bowes Museum had been selected as the UK venue for Yves Saint Laurent: Style is Eternal, which opens on July 11^th. All the more momentous due to the fact that it’s the first retrospective of Yves Henri Donat Mathieu-Saint-Laurent's (to use his full name) pivotal designs in the UK. The focal point of the exhibition will be the defining elements of his vision, concentrating on game changing styles and iconic pieces such as the Tuxedo, Mondrian dresses and the Russian Collection. Following a handful of film biopics last year, this exhibition cements YSL’s reputation as one of the most talented and visionary designers of the 20^th century.

Why Bowes? Anyone that’s visited will understand the choice, and it’s certainly fitting that a French chateau will play host to this global fashion event. Even better that I don't have to traipse all the way to London to see it! Pierre Berge, Saint Laurent’s partner and president of the Foundation that is committed to keeping YSL’s work at the forefront of international fashion, has cited the museum’s “exceptional work with fashion and textiles” and the undeniable beauty of the  “Second Empire French Chateau” as reasons why it’s the perfect setting. 

 

Now to find the perfect vintage piece of YSL to wear for the launch. I’ve got six months to find it…

“Fashion fades, style is eternal.” Yves Saint-Laurent (1936 – 2008)

2014 Film Review

I saw some amazing films last year, I'm sure you'll agree it was a great year for cinema. From intense, dark dramas to epic blockbusters, I throughly enjoyed heading to the Tyneside Cinema (one of my favourite places in Newcastle and undoubtedly one of the best cinemas in the UK) to do reviews, for a pick me up or to meet up with friends. Here are my favourites of 2014 :)

Inside Llewlyn Davis (February)

This Coen Brothers movie got into my bones like the cold on the wet and windy Sunday afternoon in February when I went to see it. Involving relaxing, hypnotic folk music and complex, flawed characters, it certainly made you think. The shots are delicious and it's perfect for a cosy winter's evening - catch it on DVD.

Her (February)

I went to see Her on Valentines Day and it made me cry (I was single and had had a few

wines). Spike Jonze is a genius at making a film look beautiful - the colours were striking and the acting was sublime. Joaquin was pretty much in every shot and laid himself bare, falling in love with his IOS, Samantha (Scarlett Johansen). Everyone can identify with it, even if the context isn't familiar. 

Nymphomaniac (Parts 1 and 2) February

Well, this was six hours of cinema I'll never forget. I felt like I was in the Tyneside forever, with the amusing interlude of a load of teenagers piling in screaming about sex. Lars Von Trier's epic two parter exploring the emotional landscape of Joe, a self-confessed nympho had a stellar cast and was a cinematic feat (yes, Shia Leboeuf's accent was dodgy). Charlotte Gainsbourg and Stellan Saargaard were fantastic - it won't be to everyone's taste but he's one of the most interesting and exciting directors around, so see it.

Yves Saint Laurent (April)

I knew I was going to love this, and I did. I love all things French and especially French cinema, and this biopic certainly did justice to the amazing life story of Yves Saint Laurent. Newcomer Pierre Niney is perfectly cast as the young genius, and plays all sides of his character spookily true to life. Guilluame Gallienne is also excellent as his lover and business partner Pierre Berge.  I had constant shivers down my spine during the catwalk shows (they used the original clothes) - it was elegant and emotional.

Chinese Puzzle

I adore Cedric Klapisch's trilogy (the third film after Auberge Espagnol and Russian Dolls) - all centered around main character Xavier (the excellent Romain Duris) which first saw him at university and focussed on his relationship with a group of Erasmus students and the women in his life - Wendy (Kelly Reilly) and Martine (Audrey Tatou). I loved the use of graphics in this film! Xavier follows his estranged wife and kids to New York and tried to make a life there. His old friend Isabelle (Cecile de France) lives there and his ex Martine turns up from Paris, making his life complicated. 

Mood Indigo

Anyone who loves fantasy films and escapism needs to see Mood Indigo - again with two of my favourite French actors Romain Duris and the wonderful Audrey Tautou. Think Amelie but even crazier. Michael Gondry creates a crazy world where Colin (Duris) is rich and lives in a cartoon like house that has a piano cocktail (a piano that makes cocktails) and lots of others interesting inventions. Colin falls in love with Chloe (Tautou) but she becomes ill when she swallows a seed which results in a  plant growing in her lung (??) It's whimsical, colourful and beautifully realised. 

The Grand Budapest Hotel

Well, it was just SUMPTUOUS. The larger than life characters, the colours, the sets, the comic pauses, the discovery of Tony Revolori as the young Zero. The rapport between Ralph Fiennes' Monsieur Gustav and Zero is charming, and watching their capers is heartwarming and amusing. The cast is amazing, Wes Anderson is basically God.

My Old Lady

I wasn't expecting this to be as good as it was - but it certainly packed a punch. Kevin Kline  (Mathias) is excellent as a washed up author and alcoholic who travels to Paris with plans to live in his late father's house, until he realises that it comes with added extras, in the shape of Dame Maggie as Mathilde. The apartment is what's known as a viager, and she gets to live in it for life AND get an income. Nice. Kristen Scott Thomas is also excellent as Mathilde's daughter and Mathias' love interest.

I am Ali

I'm not usually a massive sports documentary fan but this one was told from an interesting viewpoint, focussing on Ali's family life. His warmth and generosity are humbling, his recorded conversations with his kids and interviews with them as adults heartwarming. It manages to be both hard hitting and moving at the same time, and I left the cinema feeling highly motivated and in awe of such a great humanitarian.

Ski Fashion

It’s not easy to be chic on the slopes. It’s not really conducive to high fashion, it’s cold for a start, and that means layers and material that’s well, puffy. Luckily, top designers have saved the day and now offer ski jackets and shell pants, the outerwear necessary if you’re going to be flying down the black runs. If you choose to stick to apres-ski and other pursuits (I’d choose yoga and partying) there’s also plenty of on trend pieces that you’ll be able to wear back home.

Outerwear

Pucci Quilted Printed shell down jacket

                                                                            

Stand out on the slopes with Pucci’s pink, peach, purple and black print. With a high collar and fitted cuffs, it’s also padded with down and feathers to maximise insulation. Wear it on and off the slopes with black thermal leggings and knee high padded boots.

Fendi hooded shell ski jacket

          

I love the Fendi “creatures” collection. It’s playful and stylish. The colour blocking won’t date quickly and the “eyes” definitely have it! It has a handy drawstring hood for when the snow starts to fall and fits comfortably over a thermal top when it’s apres-ski time. 

Adidas By Stella McCartney Fleece lined faux suede and shell ski boots

              

            

Often ski boots are a little bulky but these manage to keep an air of cool about them. They have a gripped rubber sole which means no slipping or sliding, elasticated cuffs to keep out the elements and are warm and toasty as well as comfortable thanks to a Thinsulate lined fleecy sock.

KJUS Formula Leather and Shell Down Mittens

              

             

Tap into the monochrome trend and the most current technology with these cool thermal mittens. They’re filled with down and made from waterproof fleece-lined shell; the company is famed for its use of adaptive fabrics that regulate body temperature. The palms are reinforced with leather and anti-silicone grips, what more could you want?

Base layers

Falke Ergonomic Sports System Wool Blend top

                

This base layer is extremely comfortable and helps to regulate your temperature, whisking pesky moisture away from your skin. 

Mover merino wool-jersey leggings

             

By using merino wool instead of synthetic materials, Swiss brand Mover ensure maximum comfort and insulation. Don’t forget that your base layer is important and needs to be comfortable as it’s next to your skin. They also look great with an oversized knitted sweater for apres-ski.

Lacroix LX padded merino wool blend knee socks

       

The merino wool blend has anti-bacterial and insulating properties, they’re also cushioned at the ankle bone and shin to protect against knocks and falls. The footbed and toe are also reinforced. Who knew socks could be so clever?

Apres-ski

Perfect Moment + Helen Lee honeycomb mesh and merino wool top

           

This isn’t the most practical piece of skiwear but who cares – it’s beautiful and who wants to look the same as everyone else at parties? It combines breathable mesh with black merino wool which flatters the figure and keeps you warm. It has a zip fastening up the back and looks great with black leggings and ankle boots.

Rick Owens Cashmere Sweater

            

If you’re going to wear cashmere, you may as well wear Rick Owens. This is long line and perfect for layering with a gilet and skinny pants/leggings. It’s fine knit and fits like a glove.

Accessories

Eugenia Kim Magritte Alpaca Beanie

         

I love anything a little whimsical and fun, and this beanie will keep your eyes warm and the cool factor up between runs. It was knitted in Peru and you can adjust the size by folding the up the ribbed trim. 

Lacroix LX Frameless mirrored anti-fog goggles

         

These are for serious skiers – the technology is mindboggling. The anti-fog coating ensures that your amazing views stay crystal clear, there’s an inner silicon grip on the elasticated headband so it won’t budge and the goggles are treated with iridium to balance light levels. What more could you want. They also look cool too.

Missoni ribbed wool-blend arm warmers

            

You can always rely on Missoni for great knits  - these fingerless gloves ensure that your arms are kept warm and you can still use your phone. The black and cream print means that they will go with anything and the splash of colour is just perfect.

Falke Norwegian knitted socks

            

These amazingly cosy socks are knitted with wool and cashmere for ultimate comfort. In grape, navy and grey, they add a splash of colour if you’re top to toe in black, and are snug under ski or biker boots.

*All of these items are available at Net-a-Porter

2014 Fashion Review

Well, that flew past quickly didn't it! I hope everyone had a wonderful time at Christmas and New Year! I spent mine with family and friends at home this year (last year I was in Bordeaux for New Year). Looking back at my diary, I realised how much flying around I was doing, so my plan is to have more down time this year, especially in January, then get ready for exciting new adventures!!!

Here are my favourite discoveries of the year ...

Maison Kitsune

I love everything about the Kitsune brand (I knew about their music a while back but this year I visited Cafe Kitsune in Paris and managed to get my hands on some of the very cool clothes). There's a large back catalogue of amazing compilation albums, the cafe and the on trend clothing line for men and women - the fox is their logo! 

Maria Francesca Pepe

 

I love everything about Maria Francesca Pepe's jewellery and was lucky enough to get a cool bracelet for Christmas! I saw the new collection at London Fashion Week and it is amazing! 

Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony continues to create and collaborate with some 

of the most visionary people in the fashion world. It was founded in 2002 by Carol Lim and Huberto Leon, who now run Kenzo. It's always ahead of the pack. 

Miista

I adore Miista shoes, I have a fabulous pair of brogues which always put me in the mood to write! They are unique and stand out from the crowd - it basically makes me happy to put them on!

Lulu Guinness

I love everything that Lulu Guinness does - I nabbed this overnight bag last year and it goes with my everywhere - it always gets compliments! I also love the clutch bag range with lipsticks on the clasp. Gorgeous!

Self Portrait

Feminine and detailed, Self Portrait is a contemporary London brand that I have been following with interest in 2014. Creator Han Chong also uses historical references in his designs. I adore the sweatshirts  - it also doesn't wreck your bank balance which is a bonus!

& Other Stories

I love & Other Stories - it combines Scandi and French cool, with contemporary work and casual ware, great accessories and a great beauty range. I always look forward to going to the flagship store when I visit London - it's full of treasures. And the shoes are beautiful (tip - I have found it recently in TK Maxx)!!!!!!

I'm looking forward to discovering new brands in 2015 - look out for my post on new discoveries at London Fashion Week last year :)

Lily Kamper

I discovered the brand at the London Fashion Week Designer Showrooms and instantly adored the unusual material combinations and designs, especially the colours. Made from blocks or resin and perspex and set with precious stones, they definitely stand out from the crowd. You can get the pieces in Liberty London and Colette Paris.