Latest news with #Scandi-chic
Wales Online
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
The hidden Gavin & Stacey room in Ikea Cardiff you've probably walked right past
The hidden Gavin & Stacey room in Ikea Cardiff you've probably walked right past Shoppers at Ikea Cardiff may not realise they're walking past Barry Island royalty Barry Island might be 14 miles away but Ikea Cardiff is hiding a little slice of the seaside among the flat-packs and meatballs – and fans of Gavin & Stacey are going to love it. In a store known for its maze-like layout and endless Scandi-chic showrooms it takes a keen eye to spot the occasional Easter egg hidden in plain sight. But thanks to Welsh TikToker Dheanasaur – who boasts nearly 900,000 followers –fans of the cult comedy have now been let in on a secret. Tucked away in section seven of the display rooms there's a bedroom completely dedicated to Nessa "Shanessa" Jenkins. IKEA Cardiff Introduces Gavin And Stacey-themed Room Leopard print walls? Check. A mirror scribbled with "What's occurin'?'" in red lipstick? Obviously. A black leather vest and knee-high boots hanging proudly like a shrine to Wales' most iconic bouncer? Absolutely. It's the kind of bold and brash setup that screams "Nessa lives here" and according to Dheanasaur, who documented the discovery in a now-viral TikTok, the room is stuffed with subtle (and not-so-subtle) nods to the beloved Barry legend. Article continues below The first clue - a black leather vest, hooked on a leopard print wall (Image: Dheanasaur ) The famous phrase said by the Welsh legend herself (Image: Dheanasaur ) Perched on top of the wardrobe fans will spot two playfully labelled storage boxes: one reading "Neil the baby old photos" and the other, "Smithy's sleepover stuff" – both references to key moments and relationships in the series. There's even a pinned photo of Barry Island – presumably a reminder of where Nessa's heart lies, should she ever get lost in Ikea's unforgiving loop of kitchens and bathrooms. The attention to detail doesn't stop there. Open the drawers and you'll find goalkeeping gloves (cheers Stace), Tic Tacs of every flavour, and Nessa's unmentionables stashed in the second drawer. The wardrobe itself? A masterclass in fierce fashion, from rhinestone-encrusted graphic tees to eclectically-patterned fits. The hilarious homage to the Gavin & Stacey character can be found in Ikea's Welsh store (Image: Dheanasaur ) Even the romantic Nessa gets a nod. A quote from the 2019 Christmas Special – the one where she finally bares her soul to Smithy – is printed on the wall, proving this room isn't just a gimmick but a love letter to the show. A present from Stacey to Nessa was found in the drawers (Image: Dheanasaur ) It's a totally unexpected homage that many shoppers likely walk straight past on their hunt for a Billy bookcase – but now you know there's no excuse. Article continues below
7NEWS
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- 7NEWS
Crocs latest collab with designer fashion label has taken shoppers by surprise
Just when you thought fashion had run out of surprises, along comes a collaboration that's part Scandi-chic, part unapologetic comfort and entirely covetable. Global footwear icon Crocs and beloved Finnish design house Marimekko have teamed up for the first time ever, and the result is a limited-edition collection that's guaranteed to spark joy (and probably start a few group chat debates). Dropping today, the Marimekko x Crocs collection is a playful, feel-good fusion of function and fashion. And yes, those are floral Crocs you're looking at. If you've ever secretly slipped into your Crocs for the school run or a quick coffee, now's the time to come clean and go full fashion with it. Marimekko's iconic Unikko print, a bold, blooming floral pattern born in the '60s and beloved by design lovers around the world, has been splashed across Crocs' most-loved silhouettes, including the Classic Clog and the ultra-popular Platform Clog. The collection also includes mini-me styles for kids, so you can match your little ones in the most adorable way possible. But the fun doesn't stop at your feet. To complete the look (and let's be honest, your weekend errands outfit), the brands have also dropped matching socks, a printed tote bag, marking Crocs' first ever foray into totes, and a charm pack of Marimekko x Crocs Jibbitz, perfect for customising your clogs with a little extra flair. 'This collaboration celebrates the joy and creativity at the heart of both brands,' says Rebekka Bay, Creative Director at Marimekko. And it shows. The collection feels like a wearable mood boost, combining Crocs' foot-hugging comfort with Marimekko's artistic flair. Crocs' VP of Global Marketing, Matias Infante, puts it best: 'Together, we're championing bold self-expression, comfort, and confidence.' Translation: you're about to see these on every cool girl at the farmers' market. Whether you're a diehard Marimekko collector, a Crocs convert, or just someone who likes their footwear with a side of fun, this is one drop you don't want to sleep on. Limited edition means limited quantities, and with pieces this cheerful and wearable, they're bound to fly off the shelves (and straight onto your feet).
The Guardian
30-03-2025
- The Guardian
Just the ticket: Europe's 10 best train station hotels for a first-class stay
You might think the location is the best thing about this hotel – slap bang next to María Zambrano station – the ideal starting point for a tour of Andalucía's trio of spectacular cities: Seville, Córdoba and Granada. But the roof terrace is an unexpected win, too, with a sleek outdoor pool, alfresco sofas and loungers for a post-sightseeing snooze, and a nice menu of cocktails and light bites. The real gem, though, is the totally unexpected slide that swooshes down from the first to the ground floor, giving the lobby a lovely sense of fun. Breakfasts are also from £144 room-only, The oldest railway hotel in London, the Great Northern, opened its doors in 1854, and was reborn some years ago as part of the Kings Cross redevelopment project. Just a stone's throw from St Pancras, it's perfect for a pre-Eurostar treat, with a range of rooms from compact couchettes in the style of a continental carriage, to airy Victorian-era rooms in gold and muted greens. The GNH Bar & Terrace offers alfresco aperitifs or cocktails in the moodily lit bar, while upstairs Rails offers a tempting menu of classic British dishes. Doubles from £291 room-only, Directly across the road from Madrid's Atocha station – the hub for exploring much of Spain by train – the Only You is a delight of a hotel. The ground floor is an open-plan bar and restaurant, called Trotamundos, with a show kitchen serving up poke bowls and Asian dishes. Rooms are light and airy with a clean, almost Scandi-chic feel, but the real bonus is the roof terrace, where you can take in expansive views across southern Madrid; the perfect spot for early evening cocktails and a plate of croquetas at the buzzy Sép7ima restaurant. Doubles from £187 room-only, Exploring Scotland by train is an adventure and the Grand Central makes an ideal base for a first night, housed in Glasgow's main station. Behind the imposing Victorian frontage, rooms are chic, fun and modern, with pops of colour and crisp, unfussy decor. No journey should begin without a glass of bubbles at Champagne Central, a swishly elegant bar that feels like stepping back into travel's golden age, with a nice line in 'wee' plates (everything from haggis bonbons to corn cakes with beetroot hummus) and sumptuous afternoon teas. Doubles from £144 room-only, Just two minutes from Milano Centrale, this is an ideal overnight stay whether you're on a multi-country itinerary or exploring Italy by rail. The Nyx has shaken up Milan's slightly staid hotel scene with live DJs and retro arcade games in the lobby, street art along the corridors and slick, comfortable bedrooms. The Clash Bar and Restaurant does a good line in cocktails and the 12th-floor roof terrace is a great spot to start the night. Doubles from £146 room-only, Within easy walking distance of Marienplatz, the Oktoberfest and the Isar river, the Aloft is also slap-bang next to Munich's central station, making it an ideal stopover for either a late arrival into the city, or an early start. Rooms are a touch corporate, but the hip, communal areas more than make up for them, with a tree-dotted outdoor terrace, live music events at the WXYZ bar and a 24-hour re:charge gym with cardio machines and free weights. Doubles from £98 room-only, Exploring the Scandi capitals by train – Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo are all linked by rail – is a great multi-city trip, and the Radisson Blu, set right next to Stockholm's central station, is super-convenient after a long day of travel. Head to the 17th-floor cocktail bar, HIGH, for sweeping views of the city, or to the restaurant, Stockholm Fisk, for the best locally caught seafood. Doubles from £124 room-only, The best-connected hotel in the city, Barceló Sants sits directly above the station. There's a fun, futuristic feel to the hotel, rather like staying on the set of a sci-fi movie, with oversized portraits of astronauts in the cavernous lobby, portholes with 'space views' in the neat white bedrooms and Eero Aarnio egg-style chairs dotted around the communal spaces. The two restaurants, Oxygen and Hydrogen, offer buffet dining and high-concept Heston-esque dishes respectively, while the Orbital bar keeps the space theme going. Doubles from £90 room-only, Begin a rail adventure in Portugal and Spain with a stay at this elegant hotel housed inside Santa Apolónia station, on the banks of the River Tagus. Rooms are spare but chic in a palette of muted blues, some with balconies overlooking the water. Dinner at Impulso has a glamorous vibe, with the long bar in the centre designed to feel like a restaurant car, and a menu of all the local produce and ingredients that arrive into Santa Apolónia by train. Doubles from £131 B&B, Situated just across the road from Belgium's hub for both Eurostar and high-speed Thalys trains, the Novotel is also within handy walking distance of all of the main sites in Brussels, including the Grand Place. This isn't a hotel for a romantic break, but the fuss-free rooms guarantee a good night's sleep, there's a pleasant outdoor terrace and the impressive buffet breakfast will set you up for the day, however long your journey. Doubles from £103 room-only,
Telegraph
18-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
Why a black leather waistcoat is the must-have item for spring
While it won't be a surprise that florals and stripes are big for spring, one piece that I'm sure isn't on your bingo card is a leather waistcoat. However, thanks to Sienna Miller, it's set to be the unexpected hit of the season. The actor wore a cropped black waistcoat during Paris Fashion Week at a dinner at Château Voltaire to celebrate her new campaign for Californian denim brand Frame, in which she stars with her boyfriend Oli Green. She teamed it with cream jeans and black boots, adding her signature boho flair with a slouchy bag and beaded charm bracelet. The effect? Part rodeo, part rock-and-roll and totally chic. Miller is well known for her style prowess, and her ability to influence the nation's wardrobes has not waned since she tempted us into coin belts and prairie skirts back in the early 2000s. It's in no small part down to her recent sell-out collaborations with M&S that we're all wearing barrel-leg jeans. So is a leather waistcoat the next cult spring buy? 'Personally I love leather in black for spring – with jeans and a biker tee, or over a boho maxi dress,' says stylist, presenter and fashion influencer, Kat Farmer. 'It's definitely a spring staple and completely timeless.' The catwalks agree. Leather outerwear was a hero of the spring/summer 2025 collections, from leather bombers at Victoria Beckham to oversized biker jackets at Saint Laurent. The case for going sleeveless was made at Chloé, where long-line leather utility vests were used to toughen-up romantic lace blouses. We'll be seeing a lot of them next season, too. For her debut collection as Givenchy's creative director, Sarah Burton showed black leather blazer-style waistcoats with exaggerated shoulders. While the styling suggestion of coordinating leather trousers might be OTT for everyday wear, the addition of sculptural silver jewellery is worth taking note of. Of course, what looks great on the catwalk – or indeed an A-lister – can err towards Village People in real life. Stay away from fringing, studs and embellishments which can resemble fancy dress. Reach for a waistcoat with a clean, minimal design and in quality leather for a Scandi-chic look. Black Catrin Leather Waistcoast, £249, Whistles; Teza Okobor™ Alt-Leather Sleeveless Top, £295, Nanushka Miller's Frame version gets it right and is available for £765 (Frame Store). But you don't need to spend anywhere near that to master the look. Try the Whistles' Catrin waistcoat, which is a more palatable £249 and has a longer length that covers your midriff. For a non-animal alternative, Nanushka's Teza vest is made from the brand's signature alt-leather Okobor, a blend of recycled fabrics, that feels every bit deserving of the high-end piece. Shopping online for a vintage or pre-loved waistcoat will pay dividends, not only because price tags tend to be lower, the patina of leather gets better with age, too. 'I love looking for leather on Vinted,' says Clare Lewis, vintage expert and founder of Retold boutique. 'Just be sure to ask the seller about the condition and get more photos before committing to purchase.' Smoke odours are notoriously difficult to get out of leather so also ensure it comes from a smoke-free home. As for how to style your waistcoat? 'Leather is a fun tool to toughen up softer, more feminine pieces. Try layering a waistcoat over your white flowy dress or linen trousers to make them feel that bit cooler,' advises stylist and co-founder of Wrapp10, Florrie Thomas. Sofi Relazed Fit Leather Gilet, £319, All Saints All Saint's buttery Sofi gilet has a relaxed fit for extra-effortless chic. To channel Miller's boho luxe, simply add a slouchy shoulder bag. Denim and leather is a fail-safe pairing. Layer Cos's sleeveless top over a fine roll-neck and pair it with your high-waist jeans or denim midi. A fashion-forward way to mix up your go-to everyday uniform. Sleeveless Leather Top, £250, Cos A pop of leather can give an edge to tailoring, too. Wear Norma Kamali's fitted waistcoat (£195, My Theresa) with a thin merino wool crew-neck and tailored trousers for the office, then couple it with a camisole and kitten heels and, voilà, head out to dinner. In Paris or elsewhere. Dos and don'ts Save your sparkle Fussy jewellery can tip leather into the realms of costume, not to mention it looking dated. A modern pebble earring or sculptural cuff has a more contemporary feel. Take care Invest in a good leather conditioner to help keep your leather soft and supple. Prevent fading by hanging in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ditch the backcomb Big hair worn with leather has an air of 1980s power ballad about it. Try undone waves or a low chignon instead. Layer up Leather can get sweaty when resting on bare skin, so slip a camisole or tank underneath. Keep it monochrome Styling your leather waistcoat with a limited colour palette is an easy way to create an understated Scandi-chic aesthetic.
FACT
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Studio Frantzén Review: A Neo-Nordic surprise at Atlantis, The Palm
Björn Frantzén is a name that resonates with culinary gravitas, a whisper of Nordic brilliance that has conquered palates from Stockholm to Singapore. Now, the acclaimed chef has opened a restaurant in Dubai, bringing his lauded Studio Frantzén concept to the space previously occupied by Nobu on the ground floor of Atlantis, The Palm. The transformation from a dark and dingy dining room into a vibrant Scandi-chic space is impressive. Studio Frantzén boasts a design ethos that mirrors its culinary philosophy: luxurious yet restrained. A striking bear sculpture at the entrance sets the tone for a restaurant that forgoes Scandinavian chic in favour of stylish booths, a dramatic atrium, warm woods, and a chandelier featuring upturned candles. If you love to watch the chefs at work, there are 20 front-row seats by the kitchen counter. Plus, a private dining room for 14 guests. Ikea, this is not. Frantzén's culinary philosophy, honed through years at the helm of MICHELIN-starred establishments, celebrates seasonal ingredients, meticulous technique, and a harmonious blend of Nordic and Asian influences. The bar offers a specially curated Nordic cocktail menu, which is designed to complement the dining experience. As does the Björn's curated playlist, which blasts tracks from Guns N' Roses, Prince and The Smiths. Studio Frantzén's combination of neo-Nordic and Asian influences comes to the fore with the Hamachi Crudo (AED 105), which was a revelation. Here, silky yellowtail is adorned with delicate slivers of radish, while ume kosho (a fermented citrus-chilli paste) introduces a measured heat that lingers on the palate. The fermented strawberry lends a whisper of sweetness, ensuring that every bite oscillates between freshness and umami. Next came the Artichoke (AED 95), a dish that champions seasonality, where grilled green asparagus provides a verdant counterpoint to the earthy artichoke, while pea miso adds a layer of savoury depth. The crunch of pistachios offers textural intrigue, elevating the dish beyond its humble components. The Wagyu Nigiri (AED 65) is a study in contrasts. The A5 Wagyu, its richness tamed by the earthy notes of mushroom miso, rests atop seasoned rice. The addition of enoki mushrooms provides a delicate crunch, adding another dimension to a bite that feels both decadent and disciplined. A lighter interlude followed with the Salmon Tataki Salad (AED 185). The fish, kissed by the flame, its heart still beautifully rare, retains its natural silkiness, while the supporting elements—avocado, cabbage salad, spring onion, and ponzu—add layers of texture and brightness. It's a dish that feels light, yet profoundly satisfying. Inspired by Frantzén's renowned open-flame kitchen in Stockholm, the main courses at Studio Frantzén Dubai celebrate dishes cooked 'from the fireplace'. The Japanese Saroma A5 Wagyu beef (AED 345) boasts an impressive marbling and a sublime texture. The accompanying oxtail ponzu provides a rich, savoury depth and is paired perfectly with a side of Japanese-seasoned French fries (AED 45) topped with Parmesan cheese. Studio Frantzén's walk-in Candy Room offers an interactive dessert experience, where guests enter a sweet-shop-of-sorts stacked with jars of Scandinavian confectionary, homemade ice cream and gleaming glass counters stocked with sweet treats ranging from Chilled Charentais Melon to Citrus Lemon Thyme Pavlova. We succumbed to the allure of the Chamomile & Ghaf Honey Cheesecake (AED 65). The delicate floral notes of chamomile infused the creamy cheesecake, while the local ghaf honey added a touch of sweetness. The buckwheat crumble provided a tempting texture, while the yuzu curd added a burst of citrus that cut through the richness of the dessert. It's a thoughtful, nuanced finale to a meal where every dish is a careful study of contrast and balance. Björn Frantzén is known for his restaurants across the world, including the three MICHELIN-starred Frantzén in Stockholm and the three MICHELIN-starred Zén in Singapore. Now, the former footballer turned chef has joined the culinary roster at Atlantis, The Palm, alongside heavy hitters such as Gordon Ramsay, Heston Blumenthal, and Nobu Matsuhisa. Service is prompt and genial, albeit slow at times. However, the experience feels both intimate and indulgent resulting in a dazzling Dubai debut for the champion chef. Hej, Studio Frantzén. GO: Visit for more information.
