Have you entered any of our VIP competitions yet? There’s more chance of winning one than winning the lottery and all the prizes have been picked by us to make sure they are 100% fabulous. Recently, we accompanied the winner of our Suntory Whisky competition to London’s five star Corinthia Hotel.
Matteo Zarandy was randomly picked out of 1,000 entrants and won a cocktail masterclass with expert drinks maker Zoran Peric. Zoran, who’s an ambassador for Suntory, and has been behind some of our favourite bars in London and around the world, spent two hours showing us how to make whisky drinks that looked sophisticated and tasted better than we ever imagined. Here’s a video of the Rob Roy – anyone can make this:
Zoran shaked, stirred and told us how to pour tonic water properly – if you pour it straight over ice you will lose the bubbles so you need to pour it slowly over a spoon.
We also learned how to make a Whisky Sour and Zoran talked us through the origins of Japanese Whisky (a lot smoother on the palate then Scottish brands, we thought)
Then our winner walked away with a bottle of Hibiki 17 year old worth £70. Sadly he didn’t share any with us…
REMEMBER: Prizes still available on the competition page are a pro swingball (so you can get a VIP body and practise for Wimbledon), a dozen cupcakes (so you can be the host with the most) and a VIP family ticket for the Happy Days festival on Saturday 2 June. Click here to see more details
VIP Party Picks: Jacob’s Creek Cool Harvest Launch
Thursday 17th of May 2012 12:24
Tags: naomi watts
Who likes nothing better than to have a glass of wine and a gossip with close friends and family? Well, we know we do. In fact it’s probably one of our favourite ways to spend an evening. And that is exactly what Australian actress Naomi Watts did last night. The Mulholland Drive star let her golden hair down, sat back and sipped on a glass of Jacob’s Creek Cool Harvest wine at The Orangery yesterday evening. The actress is in town to begin filming her role as Princess Diana in a portrayal of her relationship with heart surgeon, Dr Hasnat Khan and her tragic death in 1997. Hmmm, we think Naomi may need a glass or two before tackling that role.
As the face of the Australian wine, Naomi certainly seemed to enjoy tasting the different varieties – and why the hell not? The wine comes in four varieties – Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino, Shiraz Rosé and Cuuve Sauvignon Blanc. Yummy! Each wine is different in taste, but all have the same principles behind them – by harvesting in a cool condition you maximise the retention of its tropical aromas and natural acidity. Which gives the wine a fuller flavour and enjoying it more!
Naomi was joined by Jacob’s Creek wine maker Rebekah Richardson, who was on hand to guide the Hollywood star and her guests through the variety of wines from the Cool Harvest collection.
The yummy mummy looked gorgeous in a teal shift dress and was seen gossiping and giggling with her friends throughout the night. Naomi told us that having a hectic job no matter what your profession can take its toll and making time for yourself and friends is very important. “My friends mean the world to me and when I get the chance there is nothing I enjoy more than getting together with them for some good food, conversation and, of course, good wine. It’s not always as easy or as often as I hope as my schedule is pretty hectic but it does mean the time I do spend with my friends is really precious to me.” Can we be your friend Naomi? Pretty pleasssseee!
Jacob’s Creek Cool Harvest wine is perfect for picnics, dinner parties and those Jubilee street parties up and down the country. Visit your local supermarket to pick up a bottle or two.
VIP Premiere: Men in Black 3
Thursday 17th of May 2012 07:32
Tags: alice eve, emma thompson, josh brolin, Nicole Scherzinger, rizzle kicks, Will Smith
Here come the men in black…
Last night saw London’s Leicester Square go intergalactic crazy at the UK premiere of Men in Black 3. The films stars were there, (minus Tommy Lee Jones), to support the film and stopped to have a chat with their fans, and us of course. The newest installment of the sci-fi comedy centres around time travel. Agent J (Smith), travels in time to the MIB early years in the swinging 60s, to stop an alien from assassinating his partner in crime Agent K,(Lee Jones) and changing history. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that K never told him -secrets that will reveal themselves as he teams up with the young Agent K (Josh Brolin) to save his partner, the agency, and the future of our planet.
We’ve seen the movie and think perhaps that this could be the best yet. The red or shall we say blue carpet was awash with A-Listers from Mr Smith himself to Nicole Scherzinger. Scroll down for the best gossip and tips from the stars:
The galaxy defender himself Will Smith, looked dapper in his grey, three piece suit and purple polk dot tie. The Fresh Prince said he loved getting back into the iconic black suit and shades. Will confessed that not having worked for a few years, it could have been difficult to get back into the role and suit. But said it still fit AND playing Agent J again was like he was coming home. We’re glad you can get back into that suit Will. You are looking mighty fine to us – what do you think ladies? SWOON!
Young Agent K (Josh Brolin) looked like he just walked off the Men in Black set in his super slick suit. The legendary actor, who has starred alongside Tommy Lee Jones in many a blockbuster flick said that playing a younger version of his buddy was a little weird. Josh then confessed that his other A-Lister friends, such as Sean Penn were not overly keen on him starring in the film until they realised he would be playing a young Tommy – oh how fickle these celebs are.
The beautiful Nicole Scherzinger arrived at the premiere hand in hand with boyfriend Lewis Hamilton and looked the happiest we have ever seen her. Nicole was wearing an elaborate ensemble, and seemed to be pulling an Angelina Jolie pose for most of the blue carpet walk. The singer turned actress also wore Jimmy Choo shoes, (our fave) and had stunning, yet simple make-up. The singer told us that she has been using Chantecaille eyebrow pencils to give her brows a nice arch and a shape to her face. We know where we’re going after reading this…Chantecaille.
The former Pussycat Doll who told us her album is due for release this year, along with her single internationally this summer, she said there were no plans to move straight into acting, although she wouldn’t rule it out in the future. Nicole also revealed that she certainly isn’t ready to marry Lewis just yet. Ah, we think she would make a beautiful bride, don’t you?!
Female agent in the movie Alice Eve, wore a stunning black, PVC frock and black heels. The British star and Entourage favourite said she had the most fun on this movie than any others. The actress looked gorgeous and said she owes it all to her make-up artist. Apparently, her lashes are 100% real but are courtesy of Givenchy Phenomen’ Eyes. Quick, get us to Selfridges now.
Men in Black 3 is out nationwide Friday 25th May
“>
Yesterday evening saw wine giants Jacobs Creek, hold a party at Royal venue – The Orangery. King Kong actress Naomi Watts is also the new face of the Jacobs Creek: Cool Harvest wine. The actress looked simply stunning at the launch and said that she thought she needed a glass or two after all the travelling she had been doing earlier in the week.
The wine comes in four varieties – Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino, Shiraz Rosé and Cuuve Sauvignon Blanc. Yummy! Each wine is different in taste, but all have the same principles behind them – by harvesting in a cool condition you maximise the retention of its tropical aromas and natural acidity. Which gives the wine a fuller flavour and enjoying it more!
The Orangery is not just a super posh venue to have weddings and afternoon teas, it is also a museum. It was formally the garden ballroom of the fourth Lord Holland, (we guess that’s why it’s called Holland Park) and is now open to the public as both exhibition space and somewhere to hire, (and have afternoon tea).
The Orangery hosts many a star studded event. Besides last nights party, the uber posh venue recently held the Vogue and Range Rover shindig to debut Victoria Beckham’s Range Rover design.
The best way to see if a celeb will be cooing over the intricate designed decor then we recommend visiting Imetastar.com or cravengossip.com , which will tell you about future red carpet events.
If feeling like the Queen, even just for one day is what you are after, then this is what we recommend:
HOW TO GET IN: The Orangery has set days when they serve dinner and afternoon tea. So it is advisable to phone up to check and then to book. Either call 020 7602 2467 or visit the website.
HOW MUCH TO PAY: It’s not as expensive as you’d think. Afternoon Tea is £19 and lunch will set you back about £25 per head, with dinner around £50 – this is incredibly reasonable.
THE YAYS: (1) It’s a stunning restaurant and tea house surrounded by the luscious gardens – what’s not to love? (2) The venue is perfect for a date, as the ambience can be very romantic. (3) The afternoon tea is exquisite – the giant scones are laden with lashings of clotted cream and an oozing of jam. You will want to eat them until you are full to the brim.
THE NAYS: (1) If you are more of a beer and nuts type of person then avoid this place like the plague – you will be disappointed. (2) It can get very touristy around the summer months – thus very busy. (3) The dress code is a little ambiguous as some guests turn up looking very swish whilst others are in jeans and trainers.
WHAT COULD HAPPEN: This may be one of the poshest places you are ever likely to go – unless you have tea with the Queen, but you would still of had some laughs. Plus, you never know who you might see. Last time we went to the Orangery, we talked to VB about her new clothing collection – chatting to a style icon AND a beautiful setting? What more could a girl ask for?
Oh look, the Kardashian’s are taking over London – well, it’s only Kim, but still, there’s a Kardashian in London. The reality star is in town to promote her new perfume and will be attending the Fifi fragrance awards tonight. Kim will also be doing a signing at Oxford Street’s Debenhams, visit the website to find out how to get Kim to sign your bottle.
Last week, Zoe ran one of her fashion challenges and found out how to look like Kim on a budget. Click here to find out how she did – (here’s a clue – everyone loved it!) We think Kim looked super hot when she flew into London town yesterday afternoon – how does someone manage to look that hot after a flight? Leather jackets are in again this season, and we have a new clothes crush on this leather biker jacket from Whistles. It is a little pricey at £295, but worth every penny. Start saving now eh, and you could look like Kim. Click here to buy.
Keeping Up With The Kardashians is one of our ultimate Friday afternoon treats while we are planning the week ahead. With Kim in town, we HAD to look at her style history and show you some of our best loved outfits and some that Kim could give away in the divorce.
BEBE Jewellery Launch – 2010
In recent years, Kim has toned down the brassy outfits and has gone for a casual chic look. At her jewellery launch with BEBE, the most talked about Kardashian rocked the black jeggings, and at last, we have found a pair that looks just as good as Kim’s. These Jack Wills jean/leggings are £49 and cost a lot less than Kim’s 7 for all mankind slacks. To look as booty-licious as Kim, click here.
GQ Men of the Year Awards – 2008
The reality star always knows how to work the Little Black Dress. At the GQ men of the year awards in 2008, Kim gave us all a little lesson in how to wear a LBD properly. To maximise your assets like Kim, we found the perfect frock on the high street to do just that job. It’s £45 from Next, and will look good any time of year. To buy, visit the website.
Koi Restaurant – 2006
Kim, did anyone ever tell you that less is more? We know how extraordinary you are, but you don’t need to get your breasticles out to prove it. The pattern and colour of the dress is awful and the deep v is toooooo much. Please put it away now!
Not content with singing the Olympic tune, Katy B is getting all athletic on us and is getting in tip top shape with the Nike training club. The red headed singer, who we have to say is looking in great shape is gearing up for her summer performance at the Olympics and at Nike’s first Training Club Live Festival. The festival will take place at Old Billingsgate Market, in London on the 7th July and will see Katy performing and even taking part in the Nike activities. The festival will include Nike Training Club (NTC) live classes, guest DJs, one-to-one training sessions, massages, nutritional advice and of course Katy’s performance. For more information about NTC visit the website.
Last night we took part in a NTC class with Katy B and her trainer Sonia, and sweated like we never have before. The work out was intense, but we felt amazing afterwards. We caught up with Katy B before the class and found out about her exercise regime, festival fashion and how Mark Ronson cannot be trusted:
Katy B Interview
LLAVIP: How do you like to work out?
Katy: I do the Nike Training club every Tuesday and I work with my trainer Sonia too. She works me hard, but the music we play is really important as it keeps me motivated. I really like Rihanna’s We Found Love.
LLAVIP: Which athlete are you backing this summer?
Katy: There’s a table tennis player called Darius Knight who’s from Battersea, so I will definitely be backing him. I also love Paula Radcliffe who I bumped into the other day, and got completely starstruck.
LLAVIP: What are your festival fashion tips?
Katy: I’m really liking the wedge trainers. I can’t really wear heels on stage as I like to run around a lot, so these are perfect.
LLAVIP: We’ve heard through the grapevine that Mark Ronson is a bit of a practical joker. Did he plays any jokes on you in the studio?
Katy: I’m quite a gullible person so when he tells me something I can’t tell if he’s taking the mickey. He can keep a straight face so he sometimes tells me things and makes me believe them.
LLAVIP: Do you think your friend, Jessie J is getting a bad time over The Voice?
Katy: People need to remember what The Voice is all about. It’s about the talent and everything else should be forgotten about.
LLAVIP: What would you do differently if you were a judge?
Katy: To be honest I think I would be a terrible mentor because I would just want to be nice to everybody, which isn’t great for the programme.
To see Jessie and Mark in action scroll down below:
“>
Altitude 360 is situated in Westminster and is the tallest sky-scraper in that part of London. The inspirational venue has panoramic views across the City and you really won’t find a better bar with a view like this. Last night we experienced Altitude like never before and took part in a Nike Training Club class with singer Katy B – how cool is that?
Altitude 360 has two different floors in use for entertainment. The 29th floor is the most common bar area – which has amazing bar space and views. The 28th floor is home to Altitude 360 black, which has a sleek monochromatic design and looks more glam than the other floor – perfect for that VIP party.
Altitude hosts many a celeb event, with many stars keen to experience the breathtaking views. To check future events, we advise you visit Imetastar.com or cravengossip.com, which will tell you about future red carpet parties.
If you are looking for a conference, party or wedding venue then you cannot get much better than Altitude. If you want to visit a bar with unrivalled views then this is what we recommend:
HOW TO GET IN: It is impossible to visit Altitude 360 without a booking, so to avoid being turned away at the door we recommend you call 0904 679 2929 or visit the website.
HOW MUCH TO PAY: It’s pretty expensive to be honest. You are looking to pay over £100 for a night out for drinks and add at least another £50 if you are staying for dinner. You could eat at a Michelin Star restaurant for that. But then views are phenomenal.
THE YAYS: (1) The panoramic views around London are amazing – you should make a trip there just for that. (2) If you are indulging in dinner then you will not be disappointed. Be warned though – the portions are HUGE and you want to make sure you have enough room for the peanut butter and chocolate brownie. Delicious! (3) The atmosphere and service is faultless – the staff are friendly and attentive.
THE NAYS: (1)The bar stool seats are rather uncomfortable – not great if you are planning on staying all night. (2) If you book a table then be warned that they are tiny. So if there is a large group of you it’s best to book a couple – although this gets expensive. (3) The afternoon tea expensive and we have had better elsewhere.
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: The Vesper Martini is Charlotte Church’s favourite cocktail. Yum! And Altitude is even loved by Americans – Leighton Meester was seen enjoying the views when she was in London.
Chloe Sevigny’s quirky style sees fashionistas from around the world lusting after her style. She has graced more fashion magazine covers than any other actress and Anna Wintour adores her. The actress and clothes horse is to star in new tv show Hit and Miss, which follows the story of a woman trying to marry her criminal life with her maternal instincts. We’ve seen a preview and it is utterly gripping!
How cool did she look at the premiere of Girls recently? We wish we had even an ounce of her style. If you want to get a similar dress, (lets face it, these crazy patterns are so in right now), then head to Lipsy where you get pour your body into this floral number. At £55 it is a fraction of the price Chloe paid for her paisley dress. Click here to buy.
We wish we had as much style as Chloe so we thought we’d have a look at her style through the decades. Some bits we like and some things are slightly too charity shop to be classed as chic. See more below:
Big Love Season 3 Premiere – 2009
Chloe looked like a Greek Goddess in this white, off the shoulder mini and after much searching on the high street we found a similar one from Topshop for a cool £18 -what a bargain! Click to buy.
Babel Premiere – Cannes Film Festival 2006
Everyone owns a little black dress, and if you don’t, may we suggest you get one now. Chloe rocks the LBD and we love this great substitute from Karen Millen. It’s £160 and you can wear it year after year. Visit the website to buy.
Vanity Fair Oscars Party – 2001
Chloe we know you are a fashion forward gal, but this is a step too far. The see through maxi skirt and layer upon layer of what looks like net curtain is dreadful. Remember: MUST DO BETTER NEXT TIME.
