Author: David Tainton

AW19 Lookbook: Colour & Print Trends

We highlight two of the biggest trends this season – mustard and animal print – and how you can get in on the action.

Two of the hottest trends this autumn/winter just happen to be two of our favourite obsessions at the moment – mustard and animal print. We dive into what we love most about these trends, and the best ways to wear them.

THE TRENDS ON OUR RADAR

Move over, millennial pink – mustard is where it’s at! First lauded as ‘Gen Z yellow’ by Man Repeller’s Deputy Editor Hayley Nahman, this sunny, unadulterated hue conveys feelings of zeal, optimism and hope, and isn’t showing signs of disappearing anytime soon. Pantone Color Institute announced ‘Aspen Gold’ as one of its colours for 2019, and soon after we witnessed the bright shade pop up on runways at shows by Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera. Bright yellows pervaded at this year’s New York Fashion Week, and numerous celebrities followed suit, with Constance Wu channelling Beauty and the Beasts Belle with her yellow tulle dress to the 91st Academy Awards and Rachel Brosnahan sporting the same controversial colour at this year’s Golden Globe Awards.
On the print spectrum, leopard print has always been the go-to when it comes to sporting something a little bit wild and animalistic. However, this trend has evolved further than the leopard-print staple and in 2019, snakeskin is being taken for a test drive on catwalks and city streets around the world. Forming part of the runway trends for 2019, mustard and animal print are bang on-trend. We show you how to ace these trends.

HOW TO INCORPORATE THESE TRENDS INTO YOUR EVERYDAY WARDROBE

When introducing mustard to your wardrobe, it’s best worn with wine-red hues of burgundy, plum and maroon. Add a punch of mustard to your outfit in the form of leather boots, parkas, puffer jackets, plaid and retro corduroy button-down skirts. Being less flashy than its classic yellow cousin, mustard is an exciting alternative to the neutral tones that tend to dictate our autumn wardrobes. Keep your accessories minimal to let it take centre stage – this is a colour that doesn’t want to compete for attention.
MAX: JX lined-collar denim jacket 899.95; JX crew knit 299.95; D66 check suit pants 499.95; Dr. Martens embossed boots 3299.
DEJA: Free 2BU leopard-print shirt 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU PU leather skirt 299.95.
https://mag.edgars.co.za/2019/02/congrats-youve-found-hidden-patchwork.html
Free 2BU slouchy knit 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU leopard-print shirt 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU PU leather skirt 299.95; Free 2BU palm-leaf earrings 79.95; Free 2BU rings (part of set) 79.95; Free 2BU chunky combat boots 559.95 SHOP NOW

SHOP THE TREND

Animal print will soon become your new favourite neutral. Snakeskin trousers are taking the place of plaid and check pants, which usually serve as a dependable workwear staple. While it may seem a little out-there for some, this racy print works best with a clean-lined, tailored pair of pants that showcases a timeless silhouette and contrasts well against its loud nature. For the less brave, simply grab a clutch bag to pop against an all-black outfit or dip your toe into the trend with a pair of neutral-hued block-heeled snakeskin boots. The trick here is too choose items that pick up in the colours of the print. For example, classic snakeskin would work effortlessly with beige, grey, white and even mustard (layer a mustard jersey over a leopard print shirt) so don’t be afraid to pair the hot hue with animal print.
MAX: JX lined-collar denim jacket 899.95; JX crew knit 299.95; D66 check suit pants 499.95; Dr. Martens embossed boots 3299.
DEJA: Free 2BU leopard-print shirt 229.95 SHOP NOW; Free 2BU PU leather skirt 299.95.

SHOP THE TREND

QUICK-FIRE TIPS & TRICKS TO GETTING THESE TRENDS RIGHT

● Try not to wear either trend from top to bottom, unless you’re looking to make a specific fashion statement. If this is the case, then opt for a tailored pants suit.
● The key to pulling off animal print with class is all in the silhouette – steer clear of the print in items that are too short or tight, as you could veer into trashy territory.
● Pair animal print with solids. An animal print top with a pair of black cigarette pants says sophisticated rather than sleazy.
● Keep accessories minimal – let the colour and print do the talking.
● White and yellow are a match made in heaven. To emulate a curated urban streetwear look, pair mustard with crisp and clean white sneakers.
Fashion direction & production: Brittany Penebre. Photography: Paulo Touriero /Hero. Video: Roice Nel. Hair & make-up: Shahnaz Wels-Cola/SNCM & Kelly Paitaki/Gloss. Styling: Taugheeda Abdullah-Jacobs. Models: Max/Pulse, Lisa P/Fanjam, Deja/Boss. Written by Emma Follett-Botha.

MATTHEW MENSAH’S GUIDE TO GUY GROOMING

Matthew Mensah shares his men’s grooming secrets and style tips with us.

The philanthropist and style icon lets us in on his grooming routine, and it’s not as complicated as you might expect. Follow his guide to feeling fresh and looking sharp all day, everyday. 

PR extraordinaire, award-winning sartorial figure, campaign strategist, humanitarian, brand influencer for Bvlgari – Matthew Mensah’s resume is impressive! We love that his personal style and grooming are always on point, despite his crazy busy schedule. We asked Mensah to share his grooming secrets.

What’s your approach when it comes to male grooming?
A man with respect for himself looks after himself, and there should be no excuses. If our female counterparts can manage a grooming routine, so should we. Manicures, pedicures and waxing should be part of every man’s grooming vocabulary.

Take us through your daily grooming routine.
It’s simple; I apply a rich moisturiser with shea butter from Ghana after my shower, brush my hair and beard, check that my nails are clean, and finish off with a great scent.

Which three key items are always in your bathroom cabinet?
Fragrance, moisturiser and a scissors for my beard.

Is there one grooming product you carry with you wherever you go?
I have a little miniature bottle of my favourite fragrance that I always carry in my bag, so I can refresh my scent throughout the day.

What are your top tips for men who would like to start a grooming routine?

  • Start and end your day by cleansing your skin with a mild cleanser.
  • Find a great barbershop like Bespoke Men in Sandton City, Legends Barbershop, Joburg CBD or La Familia Barbershop in Rosebank.
  • Invest in a monthly manicure and pedicure.

Do you have a signature fragrance?
Yes, Bvlgari Wood Essence is currently my go-to scent, and it’s so fitting as I am now the official brand influencer for Bvlgari – a dream position as it’s always been one of my favourite luxury brands.

Which fragrance family are you most drawn to?
I prefer masculine scents with notes of cedarwood, ambergris, fresh citrus and coriander – which actually describes the composition of the Bvlgari Wood Essence fragrance, hence why I am drawn to it! Tom Ford, Paco Rabanne and Gucci Homme are also fragrance houses that produce scents I gravitate towards.

Your beard is in impeccable shape, how do your maintain it to ensure it always looks on point?
Aah, thank you! Many people don’t understand that grooming a beard takes time and effort and you should consider the same approach as you would for your hair. It needs to be washed, brushed and trimmed (or shaven) to create the style you desire. A beard oil is also an essential product that will ensure your beard is keep soft, nourished and smelling good.

When it comes to grooming, is it all about the products for you or does healthy eating and exercise also play a big role?
Eating healthy and keeping active is very much a part of my routine. I have a bit of a sweet tooth so going to gym is crucial!

In 2017 you were named GQ’s Best Dressed Man Of The Year – how have you established your go-to style, and what style advice do you have for our readers?
It was such an honour to be given this accolade. When it comes to my style, I have always dressed for myself. I love wearing a suit but I think it’s all about the fit, so I tend to tailor most of the pieces so they fit properly. I then add my own spin on it with interesting shoes and accessories. My advice would be to create your own style and identity, and look at the shape and fit of clothing – not only the brands and price points.

SHOP GROOMING

Make sure your online personal information is safe with The Digital Databank and Edgars Club

The Digital Databank offers customers a safe and secure storage area for your personal information in the digital world.

CLUB VIP + CLUB LIFE + CLUB CLASSIC

This brand new Edgars Club benefit means your personal information in the digital world will be safe and secure. The Digital Databank is a digital vault or storage area that protects and controls any personal information or documentation you have online. There you can track, edit, share and store anything you like, any time, anywhere. Edgars Club members enjoy a 50% saving on a year’s subscription and pay only R199. Plus, members enjoy real digital convenience by automatically having your vehicle license renewed and delivered to your home without the hassle of forms and queues! For more info, click here. Ts and Cs apply.
What’s more, to celebrate the launch of this new benefit, Edgars Club members stand the chance to win one of two Huawei Band 3 Promo Smart Watches, worth R2 000 each. Competition closes 31 May 2019. To find out more and to enter, click here. Ts and Cs apply.
Image: Getty Images

Edgars Club members get more when they fill up with fuel from Engen

Edgars Club members get more when you fill up with fuel from Engen

Fuel is pricey, we know, which is why we want to give a little extra back to our members. If you’re an Edgars Club VIP or Club Life member, you get more at the pumps.
CLUB VIP + CLUB LIFE
This incredible offer, previously only available to Club VIP members, is now available to Club Life members too! Fill up with fuel at participating Engen service stations and you’ll receive 50 thank U points in addition to the 150 points that all thank U card holders get. From only R53 per month, you’ll get 200 thank U points for every litre of fuel at 800 participating Engen stations across the country. To find out more about this benefit and how it works, click here. Ts and Cs apply.

Body-Positivity Activist Siphokazi Veti on self-love and feminism

Body-positive activist Siphokazi Veti talks to us about online negativity, her meaning of self-love and what it takes to get there.

When we meet up with body positivity activist and writer Siphokazi Veti on set in Cape Town, she’s every bit as radiant as she seems on social media. And while her personality bubbles with enthusiasm and an undeniable optimism, we soon find there’s a depth to Siphokazi that is beyond her years. She opens up with the kind of refreshing honesty that is so rare in the age of social media.

Maintaining that level of positivity and energy isn’t always easy she admits, especially when it comes to the relationship she has with her body. Rather, it’s a journey and a process that needs daily practicing. So when Siphokazi revealed some of her daily mantras for happier living, we were all ears.

Why do you think it takes people so long to learn self-love? 

I think over time the world got lost in communication. Especially in media, and how it defined beauty and self-worth for so long. That kind of thing shapes young minds, and children lose something important at a young age.

What were your experiences growing up regarding self-love? 

I had an eating disorder and social anxiety. On top of that, my body started changing and maturing from an early age, but I didn’t feel comfortable to ask advice to find out more about what was happening to me. And so for a long time, I didn’t feel comfortable with myself.

When did you start feeling comfortable with your body?

Only when I got to university, and started exploring feminism. That was a major turning point. A whole new world opened up for me.

How did feminism help you through this? 

It taught me the importance of choice, individuality and fighting for who you are, and fighting to tell your story. It taught me to be proud of being a woman and the magic that is womanhood.

Do you find yourself looking to other women for guidance and inspiration? 

I am inspired by so many incredible women, but I’ve had to take the path to self-love alone. I’ve realised I am my own healer. Until you can look at yourself in the mirror every single morning and love what you see, nothing else matters.

And do you feel this way about yourself every morning? 

Definitely not every single morning. Every day is a new chapter. Every morning that I get up, I have to set my intention. I have to affirm my value and to affirm that I am enough. Self-love is a way to enjoy the journey with your body, without being hard on yourself. If I didn’t practice that and if I continued to pay attention to others’ perceptions of me, I think I would still be in a dark space. A space that never fulfilled my purpose.

Do you ever experience negativity from people online? 

Oh yes, all the time. Especially on social media. But I even experience hate in the supermarket or on the street. But these reactions come from a place of fear. People fear bodies that exist unapologetically. I try my best not to live in that moment of hate. It’s hard, don’t get me wrong. It’s why self-affirmation is especially important. And it’s why I also turn to people that inspire me. Like my grandmother. She was raised in a time when black women couldn’t thrive yet, against all odds, she did it. And so she has become the person who really drives me forward, no matter where I am in my life. My mother is another driving force for me. I am who I am because of women like my grandmother and mother.’

Siphokazi’s 5 mantras to live by

1. SELF-LOVE 
Practice self-love every day. Do not seek validation outside of yourself through instant gratifications. If you do that you will lose yourself, and you will stop telling your own story.

2. WELLBEING
Keep on learning, keep on questioning the world around you and what it’s telling you. You are your own healer, so trust your instincts and do not always turn to others to learn and understand. Have faith in your own perceptions.

https://mag.edgars.co.za/2019/02/congrats-youve-found-hidden-patchwork.html

3. PROFESSIONALISM 
Remain authentic, because your story is important. I studied accounting, which wasn’t who I truly was. I was on a path where I could easily have been lost, but I remained true to who I am and what I want in life and steered myself in the right direction.

4. SPIRITUALITY 
Spirituality is important for reconnecting to your deeper, inner guide. It helps make sense of – and deepens – your purpose on earth. I grew up in a religious home, but over the years my definition of spirituality has broadened to include many different practices, including yoga.

5. GRATITUDE
Be grateful for the time you – and your loved ones – have on this earth. My sister passed away several years ago. She helped me appreciate my own existence so much more. Her passing also made me realise that she had a powerful story, and it was never told… So her passing taught me to be grateful for the time we have, and to use that time wisely.

Check out Siphokazi’s Instagram
Photography: Instagram
Words: Edwain Steenkamp

Top 4 Easter getaways for families

We round up the best places to escape to for the whole family this Easter.

It’s the long weekend! Escape to one of these kid-friendly destinations for a relaxing break.
Children aged six to 12 can take part in Bakubung Bush Lodge’s Junior Rangers programme, where they’ll learn more about the landscape, its inhabitants, and why we need to protect our natural heritage.

Safari style: Bakubung Bush Lodge

Pilanesberg National Park, 2.5 hours from Joburg
Traditional safari escapes can sometimes be a little stuffy and dull for kids when you’re not out spotting game. Bakubung in the extensive Pilanesberg National Park solves this problem by being part bush lodge, part family resort. Thatched-roof chalets curve around a central swimming pool and cocktail bar, so parents can enjoy a G&T while the little ones exhaust their energy in the pool. There are also floodlit tennis courts, a volleyball net, action cricket and a kiddies’ playground. Have a budding game ranger on your hands? The Junior Rangers Programme is a hands-on environmental education experience offered at no extra cost for children aged six to 12.

The family-friendly ethos extends to the lodge’s rates, too. Children 12 and under stay free – including accommodation, all meals and two game drives per day – when sharing a room with an adult paying a full-board rate.

And speaking of game drives… The Pilanesberg National Park is one of the most popular in South Africa thanks to its unique landscape. It lies in the transition zone between the semi-arid Kalahari and the Lowveld, which means it’s home to a diverse variety of wildlife. You could spot the big five, prolific herds of antelope, giraffes, cheetahs and – get those binoculars out, twitchers – more than 360 species of birdlife.

Snorkelling the beautiful Inhaca Island reef is just one of the many fun-filled family activities waiting for you when you board the MSC Musica four-night cruise to Mozambique.

All aboard: MSC Musica Cruise to Portuguese Island and Pomene

Departs Durban Harbor
Fancy really getting away from it all? Then leave all your troubles ashore and hop aboard the MSC Musica. This five-day, four-night cruise departs from Durban on Friday 19 April, setting sail for Mozambique. You’ll spend a day on the pristine, marine-protected Portuguese Island, then visit the wild beauty of the coastal Pomene region.

The best part? Children under 18 sharing a cabin with their parents travel absolutely free. They’ll still enjoy full access to all the onboard water parks, swimming pools, dining options and family-friendly entertainment, plus they have their own fully supervised clubs (these are divided by age group, so your 16-year-old won’t have to roll her eyes about being lumped with the 13-year-olds). Onboard activities include everything from games consoles to cooking classes, talent shows, sports tournaments and even a formal prom night for teens.

When you arrive in Mozambique, it gets even better. While at Portuguese Island, families can choose between water sports including sea kayaking, wake-boarding, banana-boat rides, stand-up paddle boarding and snorkelling. There are also transfers to historical Inhaca Island where you can take a scenic tour, shop for souvenirs or grab a snorkel and explore the beautiful reef. Water sports also feature heavily at Pomene, but the real allure of this area lies in a mangrove tour through the nature reserve, and a visit to the eerie ruins of the once-famous Pomene Hotel.

When you’re not enjoying thrills, spills and extreme sports along the Garden Route, take it easy in the tranquil garden at The Village Lodge.

Adventure awaits: The Village Lodge

Storms River, 1.5 hours from Port Elizabeth
Most towns on the Garden Route offer a sleepy, slow-paced charm – but not Storms River. Known for its adrenalin-inducing array of extreme sports and adventure tourism, it’s the perfect getaway for the family looking for a little excitement.

The best way to take advantage of all that this town has to offer is to find relaxed, family-friendly accommodation within easy distance of the main attractions. Cue The Village Lodge, which offers 10 en-suite rooms on a B&B or self-catering basis. There’s also a communal braai lapa, lounge area, games room (with an original Pac-Man arcade) and a large garden complete with hammocks and giant chess.

So, what’s on the agenda first? A guided Segway tour is a sedate yet fun way to explore the indigenous Tsitsikamma forest. Or – if heights are your thing – you can try abseiling, ziplining, a treetop canopy tour or even scream your lungs out on the world’s highest bridge bungee-jump at Bloukrans. Water babies are well catered for too, with blackwater tubing adventures, kayaking and even scuba excursions from the Storms River Mouth. And, of course, there are plenty of hiking and mountain-biking trails, including public access to the first 6km of the famous Otter Trail.

The five-star Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is like a luxury playground for adults and children alike. Your little ones will get closer to nature, learn about the fascinating history of the area and have plenty of fun – all while you enjoy being pampered from sun-up till turn-down.

Nature calls: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Between Stanford and Gaansbaai, 2 hours from Cape Town
This five-star eco-friendly getaway may be in a slightly higher price range than the other options on this list, but when you see the breathtaking location, gorgeous accommodation and list of included activities, you’ll want to go ahead and treat yourselves.

Covering some 2500ha of pristine Cape floral kingdom, Grootbos not only preserves the natural beauty of this area, but pioneers progressive luxury tourism that uplifts nearby communities. Because of this, all the activities offered are conservation- and community-themed. The three-night family package includes a three-course lunch on arrival, an exciting treasure hunt through the fynbos, then an early supper and babysitter for the kids while you linger over a six-course dinner. Your kids will love collecting their eggs straight from the farm for breakfast the next day, followed by an educational morning learning about rock pools and the ancient caves at the beach (with a gourmet picnic lunch). Pony rides, night walks, interactive coastal tours, a marine safari and a farewell dinner under the stars are just a few more of the delights families can look forward to.

Fancy building your own itinerary? Other options include botanical 4×4 tours, shark-cage diving, scenic flights, boat-based whale watching, a progressive tourism excursion and a ‘hive to home’ beekeeping experience, among others.

Edgars Club members can go further for less with exclusive savings on everything from flights to car hire and all-inclusive packages. Whether it’s a local bush break or a relaxing beach holiday you’re after, we’ve got it all, just for you. Read more about our travel savings here.

Words: Jade Taylor Cooke

Win tickets to the hilarious Men in Tutus ballet

As an Edgars Club member, you save on ticket prices for the the comedy ballet performance Men in Tutus.

Direct from New York comes Les Ballets Eloelle’s Men in Tutus – the most hilarious and original male comedy ballet ever.

CLUB VIP + CLUB LIFE

It’s not often that you find humour in classical ballet, which is what makes this famous troupe of all-male ballerinas a firm favourite. Featuring 19 dancers from seven countries around the world, Men in Tutus is the latest production from Les Ballets Eloelle to prance its way to South Africa. Edgars Club members get 10% off tickets, paying from as little as R180 to see the hilarious show at the Teatro at Montecasino in Joburg from 12–14 April, or the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town from 18–21 April. For more info, click here. Ts and Cs apply.

Edgars Club members also stand the chance to win one of 20 sets of double tickets to shows in Joburg at the Teatro, Montecasino. To enter, click here. Ts and Cs apply.

Win big with our 90s-inspired Free 2BU and JX competition

Edgars Club is giving away 10 exciting Free 2BU and JX vouchers worth R500 each.

Edgars Club members stand the chance to win one of 10 Free 2BU/JX vouchers worth R500 each. Will you be one of the lucky prize winners? Enter now to get a head start on your winter wardrobe.
CLUB VIP + CLUB LIFE + CLUB CLASSIC

We could all use a little help when it comes to gearing our wardrobe for a new season. Edgars has your back with 10 vouchers worth R500 each up for grabs, to use on all Free 2BU and JX apparel. Shopping the latest 90s-inspired looks and stepping out in style this winter just got a whole lot easier with Edgars Club. Competition closes 15 April, voucher valid until 31 July 2019. Find out more here. Ts and Cs apply.

Edgars Club members save on travel with SA Express

Edgars Club members enjoy incredible savings on flights with SA Express for travel until 30 April 2019

Back by popular demand: we’re offering Edgars Club members unbelievable savings on select routes with SA Express. It’s time to pack your bags and enjoy your flight, because your chance to explore more of Southern Africa has arrived. 

CLUB VIP + CLUB LIFE + CLUB CLASSIC

Edgars Club and SA Express are putting domestic and regional travel on the map by slashing the price of flights. Whether you’re longing for a Kruger bush break, some time out on the coast of Richard’s Bay, or a family visit to PE or Bloemfontein, you can with Edgars Club and SA Express. You could get your flight from as little as R100, excluding airport taxes and fuel surcharges, until end of April. Do more, see more and experience more with these incredible offers. Click here to find out more. Ts and Cs apply.
Image: Getty Images

Your next girls’ night out is sorted with Ster-Kinekor

Ster-Kinekor is hosting another Girlfriends’ Getaway with the screening of the fresh, new comedy Little on 10 April.

The brand-new comedy Little is the perfect excuse for a girls’ night out, and Ster-Kinekor is making it extra special with its Girlfriends’ Getaway screening of the movie on 10 April. So grab your friends and get ready to LOL with popcorn, entertainment and all your favourite people in one place.
In this fantasy-comedy, tech mogul Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall) is transformed to her younger self, at a point in her life when the pressures of adulthood become too much to bear. She’s given the opportunity to embrace her carefree teenage years yet again, but what will she do with it? Fans of 13 Going On 30 will love this fresh and hilarious take on the time-travel theme. The idea was originally pitched by Marsai Martin, who was 10 years old at the time, after she watched the movie Big starring Tom Hanks, where the opposite happens and Hanks is transformed from a 12-year-old boy to a 30-year-old man over night. Expect a light-hearted movie with a lot of laughs and plenty of feel-good moments – perfect for a girls’ night out.
Book for the Girlfriends’ Getaway screening of Little on 10 April and you’ll receive a welcome drink, finger snacks and a free gift, compliments of Ster-Kinekor, making your night out that much more special. Girlfriends’ Getaway will be hosted at the following sites: Capegate, Cavendish, Cresta, Eastgate, Gateway, Mall of Africa, Maponya Mall, Sandton, Sterland, The Zone, Wonderpark and Vaal. For more info, click here. Ts and Cs apply.
As an Edgars Club VIP or Club Life member you save up to 50% on two Ster-Kinekor movie tickets daily! Trust us, it doesn’t get any better than this. Click here to find out more. Ts and Cs apply.