The London Chatter

The Met Ball 2013

thelondonchatter — Wed, 08 May 2013 21:58:00 +0000

The Met Ball in New York took place last weekend, the fashion industry’s annual opportunity to show off the most beautiful gowns on the most beautiful people. This year designers created outfits inspired by ‘punk chaos’ so safety pins, colour clashes and stud embellishments were key in creating some of the most show stopping gowns....

Above: Cara Delevigne perfectly punked in a plunging Burberry dress armoured in tiny gold spikes. Hands down the best dressed of the night.

Above: The saying goes, 'Go Hard or Go Home' and Sarah Jessica Parker went Hard as NAILS! SJP accessorised her voluminous Giles Deacon ball-gown (and lace knickers!) with thigh-high velvet TARTAN Louis Vuitton boots and a Philip Treacy Mohican headpiece!

Above: Some celebrities really embraced the theme with punk hairstyles and make-up, particularly Anne Hathaway who, wearing vintage Valentino (1992) with yellow nailpolish, took the opportunity to debut her new peroxide hair. I LOVE punk Anne!

Above: A little safe and not particularly 'punk chaos' but I will NEVER tire of Rooney Mara wearing white on the red carpet. The actress contrasted her dark lipstick with her delicate white lace Givenchy gown. Otherworldly.

Above: Errrrrrrm... Yup. That would be a floral upholstered Kim Kardashian in a Riccardo Tisci designed Givenchy gown, complete with 'gleeves' (glove sleeves). Dreadful.

Musical Moment: Daft Punk ft. Pharrell and Nile Rogers ('Get Lucky')

thelondonchatter — Wed, 01 May 2013 00:37:00 +0000

French veteran electronic duo Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk have teamed up with Pharrell and Nile Rogers to deliver THE song of my Summer. Currently at number one in the British charts, it doesn't get any better than this...

Baku Magazine Website Launch

thelondonchatter — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 21:42:06 +0000

Last week I attended the launch of Baku Magazine online at Baku Cellar 164 . Amidst the flame throwing, magic tricks by Fergus Flanagan and DJ set by Amber Le Bon and Becky Tong, I enjoyed some bubbles alongside half the cast of ‘Made In Chelsea’ (Baku is on Sloane Street after all, darrrrling!) Awesome art by award winning street artist Rich Simmons was also exhibited and is available to view at Baku Cellar 164 until May 15th when another contemporary artist will be showcased.

Above: Amongst Rich Simmons Art (Clockwise L-R): Kelly Eastwood with Francis Boulle and Katy Wickremesinghe, Amber Le Bon and Becky Tong, Me again (wearing a velvet and lace trim top by Sandro, the Heart Mac by Elizabeth Lau, bag by Mulberry).

Spring In My Step...

thelondonchatter — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:17:00 +0000

And Just when I think we're over London, you go and throw a Richard Curtis of a fine Spring day my way and I'm hooked all over again...

HAWT: Sienna Miller in Burberry

thelondonchatter — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:19:00 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

Actress Sienna Miller looked HAWT last week at the opening night of the new Broadway play ‘Orphans’ (starring her beau Tom Sturridge). The yummy mummy wore a classic belted Burberry trench coat whilst wearing her heart on her sleeve with the Burberry Prorsum Heart Print Calfskin Drawcord Bag as she posed for photographers in NYC. The outfit subsequently caused speculation that the gorgeous couple have been hired as the British brand’s A/W’13 faces… I would heart that.

Marathon Motivation

thelondonchatter — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 22:06:08 +0000

Congratulations to all those who ran at this weekend's London Marathon... But particularly to this man for providing the best motivation to all the stragglers behind him!

MAC Cosmetics Archie's Girls Makeup Collection

thelondonchatter — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 21:59:00 +0000

Growing up, Archie Comics were to me then what Vogue is to me now; Betty and Veronica were my Cara and Alexa. You can imagine therefore, just HOW excited I was to see the new MAC Cosmetics collaboration with my much loved American comic books.
With palates of bubblegum pinks and corals for the girly-girl Betty’s out there, and vampy, spoiling hues of berry red and scarlet for the Veronica’s out there, this make up range is adorable. Want Want Want!!! (Yes… clearly I am a Veronica.

Individual items and sets are available from MAC Cosmetics. RRP. £11.00 - £39.50

Debit Buy: Kara Ross Earrings on The Outnet

thelondonchatter — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 23:08:00 +0000

When American fine jeweller Kara Ross was 13 years old her parents bought her a gemstone of her choice to commemorate a family safari in Africa. When she returned home Kara designed a ring with the tourmaline she had chosen, “to know that I could create something wholly original at a young age really affected me.” Kara’s elegant and dazzling cocktail rings, bangles and drop earrings are firm favourites of Kate Hudson, Cameron Diaz, Eva Mendes and Michelle Obama.

Below: These Kara Ross gold-plated Water Monitor earrings available HERE on The Outnet are a steal!

RRP. ~~£95.00~~ £52.25

Margaret Thatcher (1925-2013)

thelondonchatter — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:53:15 +0000

"I am extraordinarily patient, provided I get my own way in the end."

Britain's first and only female prime minister Margaret Thatcher has past away peacefully following a stroke at the age of 87.

Overcoming class prejudice and great sexism, Margaret Thatcher became Prime Minister in 1979, following the infamous ‘Winter of Discontent’ (which saw Britain crippled by a wave of national strikes). Crushing unions, privatising vast sectors of British industry and sending troops in to the Falklands in 1982, saw the ‘The Iron Lady’ both loved and loathed in equal measure. With her pearls, black Asprey handbag and pussy-bow blouses, 'Maggie' became Britain’s longest-serving Prime Minister of the twentieth century, stepping down in 1990.

Former Conservative prime minister Sir John Major described Baroness Thatcher as a "true force of nature" and a "political phenomenon," whilst David Cameron tweeted, “We have lost a great leader, a great Prime Minister, and a great Briton.”

"Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren't."

"If you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman."

The Gosline

thelondonchatter — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:30:19 +0000

Just like when Neil Armstrong stepped foot on the moon, or JFK was assassinated, people will NEVER forget where they were when they first heard last week’s Earth-shattering headline, 'Ryan Gosling Announces Break From Acting.'

It’s true Ladies. Ryan Gosling (misguidedly) feels that we’ve all had a bit too much of him in our cinemas of late and has decided to focus on directing for the foreseeable future. Why Ryan? Whhhhhhhhhhy??!

Luckily, website Blinkbox was quick to provide an emergency support helpline (‘The Gosline’) so distressed fans can now listen to endless recordings of their favourite actor’s most famous movie quotes. A Blinkbox spokesperson said, ”we hope that this goes some way to relieving the pain and hurt caused by his selfish decision to take a break."

I promise I haven’t rung this number... Twice.

Trend: Spring Knits

thelondonchatter — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 14:03:43 +0000

Above: Day or night, no one rocks a sweater better than Alexa Chung.

Despite the sun STILL refusing to put his party hat on (yes, that is snow outside... IN APRIL!) I refuse to let my style suffer. It may be all miserable and gloomy outside but underneath my heavy parka and umbrella I shall be wearing a series of gorgeous light and bright knits bound to put Spring in my step. A knitted jumper is key this season so whether you choose to wear yours with a bejewelled statement necklace, layered with a shirt underneath (collar done up for the ultimate in geek chic), or, à la Brrrrr-ave Alexa Chung, with bare legs and a skirt, your Winter Blues will be banished.

Below (L-R): Jump(er)ing into Spring: Sienna Miller, Poppy Delevigne & Laura Carmichael.

Above ( Clockwise L-R): Gryphon NYC Rugby Merino Wool Jumper - RRP. £275.00, Markus Lupfer Big Heart Intarsia Jumper - RRP. £255.00, Topshop Knitted Mix Stitch Crop Jumper - RRP. £36.00, Malene Birger Bonny Cotton and Linen-Blend Jumper - RRP. £!45.00, Influence Pink Honeycomb Crop Knit Jumper at New Look - RRP. £14.99 , Acne Micah Angora Sweater - RRP. £170.00

'Manet: Portraying Life' at the Royal Academy

thelondonchatter — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 15:49:00 +0000

I recently went to see the Manet exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts… alongside most of London it seemed! In what was the most overcrowded of shows I’ve been to in a long time (advance bookings were among the highest in the academy's recent history) I saw more that sixty of Édouard Manet's portraits. Unfortunately, the quality of the work exhibited, much of which was not shown during the artist’s lifetime, was desperately uneven (several were even unfinished) and I found myself searching for the more well known of Manet’s paintings, omitted from this show. However, as well as learning a lot about the artist’s life, there were some obviously excellent pieces to admire, especially those of Manet’s sister-in-law Berthe Morisot (above) and that of the Monet family in their tranquil garden at Argenteuil (below).

The show closes this Sunday but there are extended opening hours this weekend until midnight. Tickets RRP. £15.00 available Here.

Best Of London - David Huglin

thelondonchatter — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 10:58:36 +0000

Burtonwode was launched by artist David Huglin (left) in 2010 when he noticed the huge imbalance “between the choice women had with their underwear compared to men.” David set about to create stylish and unique boxer shorts for men who wanted something more individual ”underneath it all.”

Printed in a 19th Century Carlisle mill and then stitched in London’s Canning Town, the sixteen pair collection of colourful Burtonwode boxer shorts are classically cut, made from 100% softened cotton and are available in a range of quirky prints from David’s own artwork.

Despite being based in London, David is Liverpudlian and has 'Liverpool' sewn onto every label "because I want it to be seen as a Liverpool brand; the city very much suits our outlook because there are things like plums and cherries on the boxes - it’s meant to be quite witty and cheeky and not taking itself too seriously.” Fruity.

David Huglin shared with us some of his London Favourites…

My Pint – I always try and go for something I've not had before. I ask to try a bit of something random and and then have a pint of the stuff if I like it. One that is always good value for money is Sam Smiths Alpine Lager at Blue Posts ( 81 Newman Street).

My Date Night – Home made Pierogies on the couch with my wife watching some trashy food porn programme.

My Sunday Brunch – It has to be bagels with cream cheese and dry smoked smoked salmon at L&D in Hampstead (15-17 Lyttelton Road), or at Panzers in St.Johns Wood (13-19 Circus Road) - It's making me hungry even thinking about it...

My Building – This is hard to choose, but probably the The Isokon Building in Hampstead. Early residents included Walter Gropius, Marcel Breuer and Agatha Christie. I also find the Royal Festival Hall just remarkable. The details are unbelievable - check out the entrance door handles and brass banisters.

My London Shop – It was the Paul Smith furniture shop on Albermarle Street, full of whimsy and playfulness. Sadly it's temporarily closed as it had some awesome stuff in there. Calvert Street in Shoreditch is really great, it has Anthem, Mawi and Ally Capelino.

My London Extravagance – Taking the day off and strolling around the British Museum.

London's Best Kept Secret – I like the second hand furniture places on the Holloway Road.

My London Icon – Edward Johnston who invented the Underground Symbol and Typeface used until the 1980's. A brilliant and efficient response to the challenges of the underground mapping system.

Burtonwode Boxer Shorts RRP. £26.00

www.burtonwode.com

Happy Easter...

thelondonchatter — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 23:49:25 +0000

'Now you're just some Bunny that I used to know...'

Stella McCartney receives OBE from the Queen

thelondonchatter — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 22:00:03 +0000

Stella McCartney was the perfect poster girl for her brand yesterday as she collected her OBE for services to fashion from the Queen. Wearing a bespoke navy suit of her own design, with a vintage platinum headpiece by Cartier and velvet pumps, Stella told the Press Association, “I feel really proud and really excited and honoured to be here." Stella also revealed that despite the Queen looking “very chic” she felt the 86 year old monarch should have been wearing Stella McCartney, “I slipped her a card…”

Stella McCartney joins fellow designers Dame Vivienne Westwood and Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen, as well as Jimmy Choo founder Tamara Mellon in being awarded the Order of the British Empire. Congratulations Stella!!

The Black Cat Cabaret

thelondonchatter — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 09:30:00 +0000

Last week I was invited to the decadent Titanic Ballroom at the Café de Paris to watch The Black Cat Cabaret, the descendent of the infamous Parisien nightspot, ‘Le Chat Noir’, brought to London by the co-founders of the Boom Boom Club and La Rêve.

Whilst enjoying a delicious three-course dinner, I was treated to an array of vintage-inspired performances from musicians, dancers and acrobats, transporting me back to the bygone era of Montmartre’s daring cabaret world. It was easy, having been to London hotspot, ‘The Box,’ not to be as impressed with all the performances as I perhaps should have been (some of the acts were simply too underwhelming), but the show’s devilish host and co-creator, Dusty Limits, gave a fantastically mischievous and utterly commanding performance, ably abetted by wonderful can-can dancing, an ethereal burlesque performance, mesmerizing hula hooping from ‘drunken’ showgirl Kalki and, my favourite, Dickie Beau’s brilliantly mimed invocation of Kenneth Williams. A totally charming and whimsical night out.

The Black Cat Cabaret has one last performance with this cast on Good Friday. For £10 off tickets enter the discount code '8livesleft'

General Show Admission: £15.00
Early Bird Show Admission: £12.00
2 Course Dinner & Show: £47.50
3 Course Dinner & Show: £52.50
VIP 3 Course Dinner & Show: £75.00

www.theblackcat.info

Designer Sushi by Kate Moss

thelondonchatter — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 10:41:00 +0000

In what appears to be the weirdest collaboration, Kate Moss has teamed up with the French chain Sushi Shop to create the limited-edition Kate Moss Sushi Box – a sequined designed box available from May 13th, carrying 40 pieces of the supermodel’s favourite sushi at a cost of £38.00. "We are opening our first London location next month so it felt natural to collaborate with her," a spokeswoman for the restaurant announced.

"Nothing is as good as ~~skinny~~ SUSHI feels..."

Beyonce as Mrs Carter for H&M

thelondonchatter — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 10:20:00 +0000

Beyonce is the face of H&M swimwear this summer and HOW gorgeous does she look in this pre-released campaign shot?! Taken in the Bahamas by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, Queen Bey reclines on a sun lounger modelling pieces inspired by her individual style. The campaign will introduce the star as "Beyoncé as Mrs Carter in H&M."

"I've always liked H&M's focus on fun affordable fashion. I really loved the concept we collaborated on to explore the different emotions of women represented by the four elements - fire, water, earth and wind," said Beyonce, "It was a beautiful shoot on a tropical island. It felt more like making a video than a commercial."

H&M's High Summer 2013 collection will be in stores from May.

High as a Kite

thelondonchatter — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 19:04:23 +0000

Princesse Tam.Tam's Red Nose Day Pyjamarama

thelondonchatter — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 19:53:00 +0000

Princesse Tam.Tam promised to donate £50.00 in my name at tonight’s 25th Comic Relief fundraiser if I agreed to be ‘Funny for Money’ and wear my pyjamas to work this morning! I have worn my Princesse Tam.Tam Diamond Blue PJs (available here) along with the accessory du jour, a Red Nose, all day – including at a meeting with Literary Death Match creator Adrian Todd Zuniga at Notting Hill’s Granger & Co (below).

To donate to Red Nose Day click here. The money you give will help poor and vulnerable people, both in the UK and in Africa.

HAWT: Olivia Palermo in Christian Dior Shoes

thelondonchatter — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 18:11:00 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

Olivia Palermo arrived at the Christian Dior A/W'13 Ready-to-Wear show during last week's Paris Fashion Week wearing these incredible heels from Dior's Spring 2013 collection. The black leather slingbacks featured a mirrored purple cuff.

Shoe envy factor? High.

Looking as gorgeously stylish as ever, Olivia (left) paired her shoes with a striped sleeveless Dior dress, also from their SS'13 collction, and the Felder Felder Nashville fur-trimmed wool coat. Olivia's burgundy bag was also, of course, by Dior. Aside from the unfortunate use of fur on her coat, Olivia's look is as flawless and perfectly polished as ever.

Kate Moss Walks for Louis Vuitton AW '13

thelondonchatter — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 17:27:00 +0000

Two years ago it was a cigarette, last year a carousel, and this year it was a cropped black wig. Kate Moss once again walked the Louis Vuitton Fall 2013 runway on the final day of Paris Fashion Week last week. Kate wore the revealing, floral embroidered gown with her signature nonchalance, supporting her good friend, designer Marc Jacobs.

The show had a real Downton Abbey vibe – according to the show notes this was translated with an ‘attitude of getting dressed up only to find the most glamorous destination is one's own hotel room.’ With that energy in mind, models emerged from behind closed doors adorned in a selection of gorgeous 1920’s-style French lace lingerie dresses and shimmering long-sleeve gowns covered in rounded, lavish overcoats in dusky pink and soft grey. 1940’s-style inspired suits, ladylike shirts and jackets in an array of velvet, tweed, printed satin (and unfortunately fur) made for an elegant, sophisticated collection (despite the lack of bras - apparently not so 2013). I adored the luxe silk pyjamas which were not only worn by several models on the runway, but also by Marc Jacobs himself as he took his bow (below).

Promise...

thelondonchatter — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 16:26:00 +0000

Stella McCartney's Red Nose Day T'shirts

thelondonchatter — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:12:00 +0000

Stella McCartney created a capsule collection of t'shirts in celebration of this Friday’s 25th Red Nose Day - and one of the designs features her dad alongside his fellow Beatles all sporting red noses! The t’shirts, which also feature Kate Moss, Tommy Cooper and Marilyn Monroe, were made in Africa using 100 percent Fairtrade-certified organic cotton.

Stella (above with supermodel Kate Moss) commented, “I admire the Red Nose Day Team and their achievement for this incredible worthwhile cause… To be able to be a small part of supporting that is extremely rewarding.”

Available in store at TK Maxx now from £9.99

International Women's Day... Chime for Change

thelondonchatter — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:49:09 +0000

Gucci’s creative director Frida Giannini has joined forces with Beyonce Knowles Carter and Salma Hayek Pinault to launch Chime For Change, a global campaign for women’s empowerment, specifically aimed at the areas of education, health and justice. The three co-founders are joined by an expert ‘Advisory Board’ which includes Meryl Streep, Jada Pinkett Smith and Julia Roberts, leading Beyonce to feel “honoured to be in the company of women who live fearlessly and who set an example for the next generation of young ladies." The fact that today is also International Women’s Day, I'm even more excited about their initiative. Girl Power at it’s best. A Zigga Zig Aaaaah.

Mother's Day Flowers... From Chanel

thelondonchatter — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 12:28:00 +0000

Show your Mum just HOW much you love her by hot-footing it down to Covent Garden this weekend and buying her a beautiful bouquet from the Chanel pop-up flower stall. From tomorrow the flowers essential to the House’s most loved fragrances (including roses, jasmine, patchouli and irises) will be available to buy until late Sunday afternoon. Also, if you purchase a 100ml of Chanel perfume, you will be given a complimentary hand-tied posy with a personalized message handwritten by a Chanel calligrapher on a camellia-embossed card... I’m slightly breathless at the very thought.

These are not just flowers. These are CHANEL flowers!

Follow The Yellow Brick... Carpet

thelondonchatter — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 13:48:00 +0000

This month there are three (great and powerful) women’s names on the tip of Tinseltown's tongue – Michelle Williams, Rachel Wiesz and Mila Kunis; the leading ladies of ‘Oz the Great and Powerful.’

Above: At London’s European premiere of the movie, the red carpet was exchanged for yellow bricks with the actresses shining in their beautiful dress choices… Rachel Weisz looked every inch a classic Hollywood star in a champagne lace Michael Kors strapless gown, Mila Kunis wore a slate grey Alexander McQueen SS’13 ruffle tiered dress (my least favourite of the three as it slightly drowned her small frame, but she still managed to look gorgeous and hold her own) and the ever quirky Michelle Williams (a red carpet favourite of mine) in a peacock blue Burberry feathered cocktail dress from their SS’13 collection - cute.

I must say however, I thought the outfits these actresses conjured up for the Los Angeles premiere of the film were even better - which lady do you think won in the style stakes?

Above: Rachel Weisz looked HOT in this bright orange, floor-sweeping gown by Victoria Beckham with signature exposed VB zip. Rachel let the dress do all the talking, opting for zero accessories and scraping her glossy locks into a chic bun. Bond Girl Perfection!

Above: Mila Kunis looked adorable in a Dolce & Gabanna embroidered dress with peep-toe Louboutins, a Bottega clutch bag and STUNNING ruby drop Sutra earrings.

Above: Michelle Williams looking oh-so-demure from the front in a pretty, floral Prada gown but not-so-demure from the side, with a waist-high slit revealing her black pants! Absolutely magical, and as unique as ever. My cute-as-a-button winner.

'The Great and Powerful Oz' is out in cinemas now...

New Face of Dior: Jennifer Lawrence

thelondonchatter — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:22:00 +0000

Jennifer Lawrence's adverts for Miss Dior were released earlier this week, and now a new behind-the-scenes video now also gives us an insight into the making of the campaign.

"Dior represents beauty and strength in women and that's how I feel when I'm wearing his clothes... It just makes you feel so confident… Being part of something with such incredible history is an honor..." Jennifer Lawrence.

Amazingly, when Jennifer saw these photographs on the Oscar's red carpet last week, she remarked candidly, "that doesn't look like me at all. I love Photoshop more than anything in the world. Of course it's Photoshop, people don't look like that."

HAWT: Alexa Chung in J.W.Anderson for Topshop

thelondonchatter — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 11:58:00 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

During London Fashion Week fashionista Alexa Chung nailed the ‘Winter White’ trend at the J.W.Anderson A/W 2013 show by teaming a latex J.W.Anderson for Topshop off-white skirt (not available on line yet) with a cream cable knit sweater. By adding contrasting black accessories and a pink pout, Alexa created the perfect cosy/chic ensemble.

Dior 'Fall' Fashion 2013

thelondonchatter — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 23:28:00 +0000

If you're gonna tumble... Be sure to tumble in Dior!

The Oscars 2013

thelondonchatter — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 01:39:50 +0000

Last night I was invited to watch the all singing and all dancing 2013 Oscars at a party hosted by Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody on a Santa Monica rooftop. With macaroni cheese, margaritas and milk duds, it was an evening of pure Oscar awesomeness where I also won the sweep steak for predicting the most award winners. Thank you Gary!

Seth MacFarlane’s was a brilliant presenter (his 'We Saw Your Boobs' song was hilarious!) and amidst the awards for this year’s most enjoyable films (and what seemed like an inordinate amount of musical medleys) there were, of course, the all-important dresses…

My Favourites Looks:

Below (L): Jessica Chastain shimmered in her custom-made bronze Georgio Armani, complemented by vintage Harry Winston diamonds. The actress revealed that she chose the Old Hollywood-style dress as it said ‘Happy Brithday Mr President’ at her! Below (R): Naomi Watts - a sure fire winner in this futuristic Armani-Prive dress with unusual neckline.

Aside from these two gorgeous dresses nothing completely blew me away, or made me Bjork-Gasp in style-horror either. Well, having said that there was...

Jennifer Lawrence tripping up the stairs collecting her Best Actress Award (thankfully she styled it out, Phew!) K-Stew’s hair (it’s the OSCARS Kirsten, could you not have brushed your hair this one time?! ) and Renee Zellwegger’s outta-this-world (literally) presenting style… "I’ll have what she’s having!"

Some key red carpet trends I noticed on the red carpet were as follows...

1) Pale and Interesting Neutrals

Above (L-R): Amanda Seyfried in McQueen, Anne Hathaway in Prada and Charlize Theron in Christain Dior Haute Couture.

2) Go Big or Go Home Gowns

Above (Clockwise L-R): Jennifer Aniston in Valentino, Amy Adams in Oscar de la Renta, Sally Field in Valentino and Jennifer Lawrence in Christian Dior Haute Couture.

3) Sparkling Metallics

Above (Clockwise L-R): Nicole Kidman in L’Wren Scott, Jessica Chastain in Armani, Halle Berry in Versace, Naomi Watts in Armani Prive, Renee Zellweger in Carolina Herrera and Catherine Zeta Jones in Zuhair Murad.

4) Backwards Necklaces

Above: Both the night’s Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress wore their necklaces backwards. Jennifer Lawrence slung her Chopard diamond bead necklace behind her, and Anne Hathaway’s tassle-infused Tiffany & Co necklace also faced backwards.

My Favourite Oscar Style

thelondonchatter — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:02:00 +0000

So many perfect Oscar dresses have walked the red carpet in the recent years but these four stood out to me. Fashion-forward, unique and award-winning in their own right.

I cannot wait until this Sunday! I'm thrilled to actually be in Hollywood for Oscar week...

Above: (2006) Michelle Williams in Vera Wang. My favourite Red Carpet look EVER.

Above: (2008) Marion Cotillard in scallop detailed, mermaid-style Jean-Paul Gaultier.

Above: (2011) Cate Blanchett in beautifully detailed and intricate Givenchy Couture.

Above: (2012) Gwyneth Paltrow in the most stylish caped Tom Ford gown.

Trend: Canary Yellow

thelondonchatter — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:23:28 +0000

Here comes the sun... Ok, kindof! We all knew Canary Yellow was going to be a big and bright SS’13 fashion trend after DKNY tickled us with their NYC Cab hues and then more delicate tones soon followed in the Zac Posen, Jenny Packham and Carolina Herrera spring runways. On last week’s freezing, snowy EE BAFTA's red carpet, Marion Cotillard (in Christian Dior) and Rising Star nominee Andrea Riseborough (in Vivienne Westwood) bravely led the way, both looking stunning in their LYD (Long Yellow Dresses!)
Lemon, Canary, Mustard… Get ready for the highstreet to flood with an array of glorious sunshine shades – just add some simple jewellery and pouty red lips...

Above: To emulate the feathery Bridget Bardot or Girl-Of-The-Moment Lena Dunham (at this month's Grammy Awards): Rag & Bone Knitted Ribbed Dress - RRP. £195.00, Nars Nail Polish in Amchoor (designed by Thankoon Panichgul of Thankoon) - RRP. £14.50, Whistles Structured Tee - RRP. £75.00, Topshop Mustard Brocade Cutout Dress - RRP. £59.00.

Musical Moment: Haim ('Forever')

thelondonchatter — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 14:34:00 +0000

I Wish We All Could Be Californian Girls... like Haim.

As I’m currently in LA I feel it both right and proper for my next Musical Moment to come from, Haim. Influenced by 80’s pop and early 90’s R&B, these Californian sisters, Este, Alana and Danielle Haim, are about to be HUGE. I love this song. It reminds me of Gloria Estefan's '‘the rhythm is gonna get you,” and makes you want to dance around your bedroom. A seeerious girl anthem.

"Forever I see you and me, forever I'll try for you and I,
No I never believed in their insight, just another good reason to get it right..."

HAWT: Rihanna in Azzedine Alaia at The Grammys

thelondonchatter — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:37:02 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

The 2013 Grammy Award for Best Dressed on the night, without a shadow of a doubt, went to Rhianna! How incredibly glamourous did she look in this beautiful custom-made Azzedine Alaia dress, accessorised with Neil Lane jewelery, Manolo Blahnik heels and a bright red pout? Dazzling and show-stopping. A red HAWT Valentine’s Day tribute.

Debit Buy: Bianca Jones Lotus Flower Necklace

thelondonchatter — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 16:12:53 +0000

I love this elegant 18ct Gold Vermeil Lotus Flower Necklace (above) designed by award-winning, London-based jeweller Bianca Jones. Inspired by peaceful love, the Lotus Flower signifies purity and beauty. Delivered to you in a vintage style envelope with a hand-tied ribbon, this is the perfect present for a loved one… or yourself. But preferably yourself.

RRP. £64.00

Bianca Jones' Cards (left) designed and printed by hand in collaboration with the illustrator Tessa Dunlop, are also seriously worth stocking up on. THEY’RE Ace.

RRP. £1.60

Bruce Paltrow's World Famous Pancakes

thelondonchatter — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 14:39:00 +0000

Pancake Day... My favourite Day!

Bruce Paltrow's World-Famous Pancakes

Recipe from 'My Father’s Daughter: Delicious, Easy Recipes Celebrating Family & Togetherness' by Gwyneth Paltrow

INGREDIENTS (serves 6)

1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 eggs (preferably organic)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly, plus 1/2 tsp per batch to grease pan
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
About 1/2 cup whole milk
Maple syrup

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Whisk eggs, 3 tbsp butter and buttermilk in another bowl. Whisk wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. Cover batter and let rest overnight in the refrigerator. Heat a large greased griddle or large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add milk to batter until it reaches desired consistency; the more milk, the thinner and more delicate the pancakes. Working in batches of three pancakes, spoon batter onto griddle or skillet. Cook until surface of pancake is covered with bubbles, for 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Drizzle warmed maple syrup over pancakes; serve. Yum!

Valentines Day Gift Guide 2013 - For Him

thelondonchatter — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:06:22 +0000

_{“You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” Dr. Seuss}

Above (Clockwise) L-R: Underwater Dogs at Waterstones – RRP. ~~£14.99~~ £11.24, Persol Black Steve McQueen Sunglasses - RRP. £191.67, Wildlife Photographer of the Year Portfolio 22 at Waterstones – RRP. ~~£25.00~~ £18.75, Biscuiteers L.O.V.E Biscuit Tin – RRP. £38.50, Chocolat Factory Ballotin of Chocolate Kisses and Bites - RRP. £8.99, Classic Pink Burtonwode Boxers – RRP. £26.00, 'Irresistibly Kissable' Card - RRP. £2.75, Izola Botanist Beard Oil - RRP. £25.00

Above (Clockwise) L-R: Condé Nast Travler Photographs 25th Anniversary Collection - RRP. £60.00, Eclectic by Tom Dixon: Orientalist Scented Candle - RRP. £55.00, Taylor of Old Bond Street Pure Badger Luxury Brush and Cream Gift Set - RRP. £29.95, J.CREW Leather-Covered iPhone 5 Case - RRP. ~~£40.00~~ £23.66, Prestat Zingy English Mint Dark Chocolate Wafers - RRP. £9.99, ASOS Trainers With Banana Print - RRP. £18.00, Chilli with Cool Lime Dark Chocolate Wafers - RRP. £10.25

Above (Clockwise) L-R: South Devon Chilli Farm Three Chilli Bottle Gift Pack - RRP. £13.50, Smythson, 'Note To Self' Manuscript Leather Notebook - RRP. £135.00, Tom Ford for Men eau de toilette - RRP. £45.00, ASOS Brogues With Leather Sole - RRP. £55.00, Cookery Lesson at Jamie Oliver's Recipease - From £15.00-£75.00, J.CREW Tasselled Cashmere Scarf - £95.00, Happy Socks - RRP. £8.00, Magimix Nespresso Citiz Coffee Machine - RRP. £199.00

Valentines Day Gift Guide 2013

thelondonchatter — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:37:29 +0000

"For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul..."
Judy Garland

Above:   Charlotte Olympia Debonaire Heart-Shaped Platform – RRP. £545.00

"A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous."
Ingrid Bergman

Above (Clockwise) L-R: Charlotte Olympia Delphine Suede Platforms – RRP. £595, Topshop Limited Edition Pearl Swing Dress – RRP. £195.00, Diptyque Rose Duet Candle at Space NK – RRP. £42.00,  Mimi Holliday Lace and Silk Satin Bow Back Knickers - RRP. £37.00, Lulu Guinness Lipstick Red Snakeskin Lips Clutch - RRP. £295.00

Above (Clockwise) L-R: Topshop Iris Print Dress - RRP. £42.00, Rosie for Autograph Rose Bra and Brazilian Knickers - RRP. £22.50 & £12.50, REN Moroccan Rose Bath Oil at ASOS - RRP. £30.00, Fabulous Frocks at Waterstones - RRP. ~~£14.99~~ £13.49, Miu Miu Sunglasses - RRP. £225.00, Harvey Nichols Valentines Hamper - RRP. £70.00

Above (Clockwise) L-R: Cowshed Gorgeous Cow Duo Set - RRP. £16.00, Charlotte Olympia Debonaire Heart-Shaped Platform – RRP. £545.00 , Mulberry Double Wrap Star Charm Bracelet - RRP. £150.00, Raspberry Marshmallow Fluff at Harvey Nichols - RRP. £2.30, Chloe Love Chloe Eau de Parfum at Boots - RRP. £48.60, Miu Miu Sunglasses - £225.00, Marc by Marc Jacobs Heart Headphones - RRP. £35.00

Above (Clockwise) L-R: Smythson 'Everyday I Love You' Notebook - RRP. £35.00, Lauderee St.Valentine Macaroons - RRP. £32.00, Voluspa Japonica Candle at Anthropologie - RRP.£10.00, Limited Edition Pink Bubbly Vaseline - RRP. £3.49, Shourouk Necklace at Matches - RRP. £372.00, Olivia Von Halle Lila Sophie Silk Pyjamas - RRP. £330.00, Phoebe Coleman's 'Love Me Tender' Bracelet - RRP. £66.67, Pretty Ballerinas Rosario Heart Pumps - £149.00

"Love is a game that two can play and both win."
Eva Gabor

David Beckham's Short Film for H&M

thelondonchatter — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 22:21:00 +0000

David Beckham’s short film for his H&M Bodywear line, filmed in Los Angeles by 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels' director Guy Ritchie, is HERE!! Run David Ruuuuuuun!!

The David Beckham Bodywear Spring/Summer collection is in stores now.

Cara and Kate's Love Cover-Off

thelondonchatter — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 23:14:39 +0000

LOVE magazine issue 9 has treated us to two cover options, one featuring a ‘cleaned up’ Kate Moss and the other featuring a ‘scrubbed up’ Cara Delevigne. Provacatively photographed by Mert & Marcus and styled by Katie Grand, both ladies look stunning. Which cover is your favourite? Mine is Kate’s... No, wait… It’s Cara’s… Kate’s… Cara’s…

Below: To celebrate her LOVE cover, a masked Cara Delevigne recorded this hypnotic video showing her lip-syncing to my most favourite guilty pleasure, Shania Twain’s 'That Don’t Impress Me Much’ whilst stroking a little grey kitten. I just love this girl. Simples.

Super (Bowl) Beyonce

thelondonchatter — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 22:43:00 +0000

A leather-clad Beyonce brilliantly strutted her stuff last weekend, in what was the most amazing halftime show in Super Bowl history! In 12 high-octane minutes, Beyonce managed to not only belt out a several of her own songs, including ‘Baby Boy,’ ‘Halo,’ and ‘Crazy In Love,’ but also host a mini Destiny’s Child reunion with Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, which was, as expected, A.W.E.S.O.M.E.

Aware of what an honour this opportunity was, Beyonce said, “I'm trying to learn to live every moment, because these moments are not promised to us," she said. "I've had a 16-year career, and all of the things that I've done have prepared me for this. ... I'm ready."

H&M Rock'n'Roll Mansion Collection

thelondonchatter — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:06:00 +0000

When highstreet giant H&M decided to launch a Rock’n’Roll inspired collection, model Georgia May Jagger, the striking daughter of the Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, was a natural choice to front the campaign. Behind the scene images of 20-year-old Georgia, famed for her bee-stung lips and gap-teeth, were released this month showing the model styled as a 1960s siren and being photographed by Terry Richardson on set in an English mansion. Georgia has said of the range, “I think music influences fashion and has done so for generations. Music creates a certain mood and then people dress accordingly. I think it’s all quite closely intertwined."

The H&M Rock 'n' Roll Mansion spring/summer 2013 collection launches in H&M stores this month.

SS'13 Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week

thelondonchatter — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 13:42:00 +0000

Ooh la laaaa… For five days a year, a few selected designers present some of the most beautiful and otherworldly creations during Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. Haute Couture means ‘High Fashion’ in French and the ultra-luxe, super detailed pieces are made on an individual basis (for those that can afford it!) Last week Christian Dior, Giambattista Valli, Jean Paul Gaultier and Maison Martin Margiela all showed their latest haute couture creations but it was the glitteringly elegant Elie Saab dresses and the floaty, intricate Chanel collection which really caught both my eye and imagination...

Described as an 'Ode to Delicacy,' the Elie Saab SS’13 Haute Couture show in Paris (above and below) was utterly breathtaking. Totally timeless and totally dreamy.

And speaking of dreamy… Beaded and sequined Chanel Couture gowns glided down a forest-styled runway filled with Coco Chanel’s favorite flower, the camellia. The traditional wedding finale was also anything but ‘traditional’ with two brides walking, hand in hand, down the runway together – perhaps Karl Lagerfeld's stand against the thousands of Parisians who recently marched in protest against the legislation of same-sex marriage?

I loved the striking red bejeweled pouts at the Christian Dior show (below left) and the extreme false lashes at Chanel (below right) which resembled dark, feathered tears.

2013 Screen Actors Guild Awards

thelondonchatter — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 11:37:00 +0000

Award Season is in full swing and unlike the Golden Globes, which was a sea of beige fishtails, last night's 2013 Screen Actors Guild Awards was all about the navy. Marion Cotillard, my favourite red carpet chéri (above), looked utterly sensational at the SAGs in a stunning Dior satin gown, complete with a tied bow sash and pocket detailing which kept the look fresh and modern. Below (L-R): Other navy red carpet beauties included SAG award winner Jennifer Lawrence in a tiered Christian Dior Haute Couture dress, a mermaid-like Amanda Seyfried in Zac Posen and Nicole Kidman in Vivienne Westwood.

The London Chatter's Winter Sun Essentials

thelondonchatter — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 09:16:00 +0000

If you are lucky enough to escape the f..f..f..freezing weather in London right now, and are getting ready to jet off to sunnier climes, then you may be wondering where to find stylish summery goodies whilst the high street is currently brim full of wooly jumpers and mittens. Fear not, as a seasoned Winter-skiver (I have myself just returned from FIVE weeks in Kenya, above) I have put together a selection of Winter Sun must-haves, so whether you are heading to a tropical jungle, a secluded white sandy beach or are just planning to relax pool-side somewhere glamorous, your sunshine needs will be totally catered for...

Above Clockwise (L-R): Globetrotter Safari Trolley Case in Ivory - £860.00, Topshop Sundress - £38.00, Miu Miu Cat Eye Sunglasses - £225.00, Daisy Jewelry's Solar Plexus Chakra Bracelet - ~~£86.00~~ £34.40, Kenneth Jay Lane's Gold Coin Necklace - ~~£70.83~~ £49.17, Accessorize Flower Fan - £6.00, Stella McCartney Lizzie Espadrilles - £146.00.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Melissa Odabash India Bikini - £139.00, Topshop Floral Bandeau Bikini - £30.00, Melissa Odabash Madrid Bikini - £137.00, Mara Hoffman Pow Wow Printed Bandeau Bikini - £205.00, Topshop Blue Tie Dye Crochet Bikini - £30.00.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Heidi Klein Wide Brim Buckle Hat - £135.00, Ondademar Tes Gauze Dress - £207.00, ASOS Floral Beaded Clutch Bag - £40.00, Pamela Love Cutout Turquoise and Bronze Cuff - £340.00, Stella McCartney Faux Patent-Leather and Cork Wedges - £385, Malin & Goetz Essential Travel Kit - £20.00.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Meli Melo Bon Bon Bag in Cipria - ~~£320.00~~ £224.00, Topshop Hawaiian Print Sundress - £36.00, Tangle Teezer - £10.00, Nars Monoi Body Glow Ii - £44.00, Benefit CORALista Powder - £23.50, Benefit CORALista Lipgloss - £13.50, Dara Ettinger Lark Dyed Amethyst Cluster Ring - £69.17, ASOS Cat Eye Flying Birds Sunglasses - £20.00, DKNY Linda Patent Multi-Strap Cork Wedges - £120.83.

Left and Below: At The Tamarind in Mombasa, Kenya, wearing The Summer Dress - £150.00 - a British collaboration between designer Chessie Grievson (of the luxury bespoke label Tephi) and artist and conservationist Sophia Rogge. This silk dress features a sand dollar print, inspired by the sea urchins from the oceans of Fiji. 10% of profits from this purchase will go towards coral conservation. Fashionable and environmentally friendly... No excuse not to really!

Above Clockwise (L-R): Lalesso Jaali Purse - £95.00, Cowshed Camomile Refreshing Toner - £16.00, FB Collection Frescobol Beach Bats - £120.00, Mufti Havana Leather Perudo Set - £75.00, Accessorize Flip Flops - £16.00, Moroccan Oil Restorative Hair Mask - £30.45.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Beach Tunes! The Very Best Of Toots & The Maytals - £15.99, Bruno Mars 'Unorthodox Jukebox,' - £7.99, Jack Savoretti 'Before The Storm' - £7.99, Ben Howard 'Every Kingdom,' - £8.99, Lissie 'Catching A Tiger' - £4.99, The Lumineers - £7.99.

HAWT: Michelle Obama in Jason Wu

thelondonchatter — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 15:45:00 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

After putting 26 year old Jason Wu firmly on the fashion map at the 2009, Michelle Obama once again turned to the same designer to create her striking red, velvet and chiffon gown, at last weekend’s Inaugural Ball. The sleeveless dress highlighted Michelle’s famously toned arms, and she accessorized with Jimmy Choo high heels. The First Lady looked HAWT. Everyone wolfwhistle: Twit-Wu!

David Beckham's H&M advert directed by Guy Ritchie

thelondonchatter — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:31:00 +0000

H&M are so thoughtful. Just when you feel unable to cope with being back at work, the dreadful weather and January life in general (yesterday was 'Blue Monday!') they present us with a fresh new dose of pictures featuring Becks in his undies to cheer us up. 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels' director Guy Ritchie has filmed footage of a scantily clad Becks and his pecks in Beverley Hills for the latest H&M advert due out on February 6th.

"David makes the perfect leading man," said Ritchie. "For me this felt more than a campaign - it was like directing a short film." The humorous commercials will debut all the collection's new colours, including red and blue, added to Beckham's Bodywear range just in time for Valentine's Day. David Beckham commented, “working with Guy has been a fantastic experience. I hope everyone has as much fun watching the film as I had making it…” Probably a whooooooole lot more David. That’s an (unw)rap!

Zooey Deschanel's Golden Globe Manicure

thelondonchatter — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 15:05:00 +0000

I'm not usually a fan of thematic manicures but I loved 'The New Girl' actress Zooey Deschanel teaming her red silk taffeta Oscar de la Renta gown and Kwiat jewellery with her quirky retro film strip nail art at this weekend's Golden Globes. ADORKABLE.

Happy 39th Birthday Kate Moss

thelondonchatter — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 14:00:05 +0000

Happy 39th Birthday Kate Moss. Still Beautiful. Still Bad Ass.

The Golden Globes 2013

thelondonchatter — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 12:19:36 +0000

I have made no secret that I LOVE award shows. I am thrilled that people from all areas within the film industry are annually rewarded for their often extreme and valiant attempts to entertain us… But mainly, I just freaking love seeing all the pretty frocks on the red carpet. The fashion at last weekend’s 70th Golden Globes may have seemed a tad disappointing to some in comparison to last year’s more glamorous turn out, but I for one actually really appreciated the more fresh-faced actresses wearing simpler, cleaner silhouettes giving the typically bejeweled and fishtailed crowd a run for their money.

My two favourite looks of the night were those of Thandie Newton (above, in Giles Deacon teamed with I'd-sell-my-granny-for-this-pair-of bubblegum pink heels) and Marion Cotilard (below, in custom-made Christian Dior by Raf Simons accessorised with a leopard print clutch). Both actresses wore unconventionally shorter cut dresses than we are used to seeing at these Tinseltown ceremonies , and both looked beautifully modern, unfussy and surprisingly natural in a sea of Veronica Lake hair and embellished tulle.

Several red carpet trends (which in turn, usually indicate what will be 'coming soon to a ~~cinema~~ high street near you’) were very clear for us to see – alongside a bizarrely large amount of black dresses (luckily made more interesting with varying degrees of pretty gold embellishment, as seen below) I noticed the following styles having their moment;

1) Peekaboo Cutaways

As seen in abundance on the SS’13 catwalks, cutaway styles and peekaboo detailing is a mehejour trend for this year, one that was shown in all it’s glory a the Golden Globes. Below (L-R): Peepo! Emily Blunt sparkling in Michael Kors, Nicole Kidman and Kate Hudson looking utterly regal in Alexander McQueen and Kristen Wiig in Michael Kors.

2) Fifty Shades of Red

From scarlet to ruby, from ox-blood to tomato, all the colours of the red rainbow were well represented on the matching carpet. Below (L-R, Clockwise): Ben Affleck's Argo-rgeous wife Jennifer Garner in Vivienne Westwood, Clare Danes in vibrant Versace, Zooey Deschanel was fairy-tale cute in Oscar de la Renta, girl-of-the-moment Jennifer Lawrence dramatic in Dior, Naomi Watts in Zac Posen and Marion Cotillard looking aDiorable.

3) It's Just, A Little Blush

The Red Carpet made many an actress blush last night, with a bevy of beauties choosing nude tones. Below (L-R): Kerry Washington Wow Wow’s in Miu Miu, Meghan Fox in Dolce & Gabbana, Anne Hathaway elegant in Chanel, Amada Seyfried ethereal in Givency.

4) Backless

Rather than strapless, this year's red carpet was all about backless... Just perfect for that 'looking over my left shoulder' pose. Below (L-R): Naomi Watts posing in Zac Posen, Jessica Chastain in Calvin Klein and Julianna Margulies being Pucci Perfect.

5) Fishtailed Fancies

There was lots of swishing and wiggling with beautiful mermaid tails a'plenty at this year's Golden Globes. Below (L-R): Taylor Swift looked amazing in Donna Karan Atelier, Amy Adams in Marchesa and the always perfect Jessica Alba in Oscar de la Renta.

6) Brits Abroad

Say what you want about their outfits, and a couple of these choices have indeed had some critics on the fence, but the Brits are all about non-traditional, fashion-forward style. Rule Britannia, Britannia rules the… Carpet. I salute you ladies. (Below L-R): Dotty for Rachel Weisz in Louis Vuitton, cream of the crop(tops) Sienna Miller in Erdem, Thandie Newton in Giles Deacon and a lady(Mary)like Michelle Dockery in Alexandre Vauthier.

7) Jolie-ing

An odd trend but a trend nonetheless! Angelina’s awkward right leg thrust at last year’s Oscars obviously had a resounding effect in Hollywood with several actresses at the Golden Globes also putting their best foot (far too) forward for the cameras. Below (L-R): Eva Longoria in Pucci, Lea Michele in Elie Saab , Halle Berry in Atelier Versace, Rosie Huntington-Whitely statuesque in Saint Laurent and Heidi Klum in Alexandre Vauthier.

When Bad Dresses Happen To Good People...

Unfortunately there are always some ladies who just… get it wrong. This year, I think the worst dress was worn by Jessica Chastain (below). Usually on all the 'Best Dressed' lists, the Golden Globe Award winning actress wore this saggy light blue dress by Calvin Klein.

Jessica's style travesty was closely followed by Halle Berry (in Atelier Versace - very nineties J-Lo), Lucy Lu (this Carolina Herrera dress is too big with too complicated a print for the red carpet) and Eva Longoria (just too chesty and too leggy in Pucci – pick just one).

Credit Buy: Lulu Guinness Perspex Lips Clutch

thelondonchatter — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:48:00 +0000

Coolest Couple Award at this year's 70th annual Golden Globes? Without doubt, Helena Bonham-Carter and Tim Burton! Unconventional, individual and HOW much do I LOVE Helena's Lulu Guinness red perspex Lips Clutch? LOTS. Available here, RRP. £245.00).

Trend: Meggings

thelondonchatter — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 15:18:25 +0000

Ok… I go away on holiday for a few weeks and what happens? Men wearing leggings becomes a trend?? Yes. This is actually happening. Errm… #Ew.

According to my very reliable and oh-so-fabulous sources in New York, the most current fashion trend sweeping across Manhattan right now are men in tights. Huh? With The Telegraph reporting that ‘meggings’ (really?!) are "taking the fashion world by storm" it appears such an ensemble is no longer reserved for male ballerinas or… Medieval outlaws?! This winter men are apparently following fast in the footsteps of Justin Beiber, Russell Brand and Lenny Kravitz and donning ‘meggings’ (I refuse to write that word without abbreviation marks) with Versace and Givenchy apparently being the most sought after brand. What could be worse than that? Oh… I know, how about this so-called ‘fashion moment’ catching on in the UK? Uniqlo is already selling them on their website and the Boy London 'meggings' sold out at Selfridges within a week. I can only imagine that with no pockets to hold their wallets (or girlfriend’s handbags to help since they, along with their owners, fled for the hills after the ‘megging’ purchase) Man-Bags (*shudder) will soon be reappearing back into our lives. Why God, Whhhhy?!!

First Official Portrait of the Duchess of Cambridge Unveiled

thelondonchatter — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:21:39 +0000

If the camera adds ten pounds, does the paintbrush add ten years?! The first official, highly anticipated, painting of the Duchess of Cambridge was unveiled today and no, you would not be alone in thinking you just woke up in the year 2023. The portrait, called HRH The Duchess of Cambridge, was commissioned by the National Portrait Gallery and painted by the artist Paul Emsley. Despite the portrait clearly not doing the pretty thirty-one year old Duchess any justice, ageing her quite dramatically, when affronted with the painting and it’s artist Catherine graciouslyand politely praised the work as, "just amazing. Absolutely brilliant." Someone get that canvas some eye serum pronto...!

The London Underground turns 150

thelondonchatter — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 13:35:00 +0000

Today is the London Underground’s 150th birthday. In celebration of this occasion I thought I would share with you some facts about the oldest Underground in the world…

The Underground has the oldest section of underground railway in the world, which opened in 1863.

The tube network is 249 miles long (or the length of 4.98 million Oyster Cards!)

The Underground is the third busiest metro system in Europe, after Moscow and Paris.

Each week, the Underground's escalators travel the equivalent distance of going twice around the world.

In cockney rhyming slang, the tube is known as the Oxo (Cube/ Tube).

In 1924, the first baby was born on the Underground, on the Bakerloo line.

As Princess Elizabeth, the Queen travelled on the Underground for the first time in May 1939, when she was 13 years old, with her governess and Princess Margaret.

An estimated half a million mice live in the Underground system. Ew.

The Underground was first used for air raid shelters in September 1940.

During the Second World War, part of the Piccadilly line (Holborn - Aldwych branch), was closed and The British Museum treasures were stored in the empty spaces.

One of the early names proposed for the Victoria Line was the Viking line.

The American talk show host Jerry Springer was born at East Finchley during the Second World War: his mother had taken shelter in the station from an air raid.

According to a 2002 study, air quality on the Underground was 73 times worse than at street level (20 mins on the Northern Line has "the same effect as smoking a cigarette")

Albus Dumbledore, a character from the Harry Potter series, has a scar just above his left knee in the shape of the Tube map.

Every day over 1000 people accidentally leave something on the Tube; some past items in include Samurai swords, false teeth, three dead bats and a 14 foot boat.

Scenes from the film Sliding Doors were shot at Waterloo station on the Waterloo & City Line and at Fulham Broadway tube station on the District Line.

The record for visiting all the stations on the Underground network – known as The Tube Challenge – is currently held by Andi James and Steve Wilson, who completed the challenge in 16 hours, 29 minutes and 13 seconds on May 27th 2011.

Wildlife observed on the Tube network includes woodpeckers, deer, sparrowhawk, bats, grass snakes, great crested newts, slow worms.

Sting and Paul McCartney are rumoured to have busked on the Underground in disguise.

In the latest James Bond film, Skyfall, Daniel Craig narrowly avoids being crushed by the Circle Line during a chase scene that took him through several tube stations.

To celebrate the anniversary there is a special 150th souvenir Oyster card on sale. These cards are limited edition and will be available to purchase from all London Underground stations.

Versace Goddess Kate Moss

thelondonchatter — Sat, 05 Jan 2013 12:40:09 +0000

I LOVE this photograph (below) from Versace’s SS’13 campaign, featuring a bronzed, shimmering Kate Moss dominating three gladiators (Kacey Carring, Veit Couturier and Edward Wilding) whilst looking every bit the powerful goddess. Set against a dramatic midnight blue backdrop, an illuminated Kate Moss shines in a vibrant orange dress.

Other images from this campaign feature Canadian supermodel Daria Werbowy (below left) and Puerto Rican supermodel Joan Smalls (below right). Donatella Versace has praised photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott for the campaign, “Mert and Marcus really outdid themselves, each image is composed like a work of art.”

I have written about this before (here) but as an aside... Did you notice that the photographers Mert and Marcus have once again used the same thick coil of rope in their Kate Moss Versace image that they also featured in their David Beckham Armani shoot and their Kate Moss Vogue June 2012 Cover? This rope needs it's own manager pronto.

With Love from the Sunshine...

thelondonchatter — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 18:32:00 +0000

All I Want For Christmas Is....

thelondonchatter — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 19:04:22 +0000

All I want for Christmas is you... And this... And maybe a few of these... Oh, and this too...

Above Clockwise (L-R): Oliva von Halle Silk Pyjamas - £330.00, Smythson 2013 Soho Diary - £180.00, CandleBarr-Co. Candle at Anthropologie - £20.00, Stella McCartney Days of the Week Knickers - £130.00, Daisy Jewellery's Stackable Rings - £37.00 each, Accessorize Rectangular Clutch - £35.00.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Brilliant Books from Amazon... 'Kate: The Kate Moss Book' - ~~£50.00~~ £42.50, Tim Walker's 'Story Teller' - ~~£45.00~~ £24.30, Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld's 'The Little Black Jacket' - ~~£65.00~~ £55.25, Mel S.Elliot's 'Colour Me Good Ryan Gosling' - ~~£7.50~~ £6.00, Camilla Morton's 'Diane Von Furstenberg and the Tale of the Empress's New Clothes' - £12.99 £8.83, 'Grace' by Grace Coddington - £25.00 £21.25.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Madeleine Thompson Cashmere Beanie - £125.00, Olympia Le-Tan 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' Embroidered Clutch from Net-a-Porter - £955, Bliss Spa Snow Wonder Gift Set - £29.00, Charlotte Olympia's Kitty Embroidered Flats - £465.00, Miu Miu Pentagon-frame metal sunglasses at Net-a-Porter - £225.00.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Apple Mini iPad - From £269.00, REN Duo Gift Set from SpaceNK - £38.00, Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 from The Conran Shop - £64.50, Floral Print Umbrella from Topshop - £16.00, GEEK Sweater from Topshop - £29.00, Dreyfuss 500 Phone from Graham and Green - £59.95.

Above Clockwise (L-R): The White Company Cashmere Bed Socks - £32.00, Knitted Bead Necklace Jumper from Topshop - £40.00, Alice and Olivia LillyAnne Puff Dress from Austique - £360.00, Tom Ford Lip Colour in Flamingo - £36.00, Sarah Chapman Skinesis Ultimate Cleanse at SpaceNK - £40.00, Mou Eskimo Boots in Stone - £170.00.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Sophia Rogge Silk Scarfs - £190.00 or £270 for personalised, Plates from Anthropologie - £16.00 - £26.00, Anya Hindmarch Studded Leather Cosmetic Case - £225.00.

Above Clockwise (L-R): Movies and Music from Amazon... 'Moonrise Kingdom' (DVD) - £11.99, 'Homeland' Season 1 (DVD) - £24.97, 'The Hunger Games' (DVD) - £10.00, Rihanna's 'Unapologetic' (CD) - £8.99, Jake Bugg (CD) - £7.99.

Oh... And World Peace.

Romeo Beckham for Burberry SS'13

thelondonchatter — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:40:21 +0000

"Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo…?" Errrm, Burberry apparently! 10 year old Romeo Beckham has made his modeling debut in the S/S’13 Burberry campaign, shot by Mario Testino. Despite the advertisements also featuring Edie Campbell and 2012's model of the year, Cara Delevigne. It was Romeo, according to Burberry’s Chief Creative Officer Christopher Bailey, “who really stole the show.” Looking particularly dapper (left) at the ‘Viva Forever!’ press night last week Romeo, alongside his brothers and parents, wore a stylish Burberry outfit, one of the many that I assume now hang in his wardrobe... alongside his trademark beanies and muddy football boots.

Romeo’s quirky style has long been admired, and last year he was placed 26th in GQ Magazine’s Best Dressed List, aged 8 - in between Prince William and Tom Hardy! David Beckham revealed that his mini-me Romeo “is the fashion one… he'll go for skinny jeans and a vintage T-shirt and funny hats," and brilliantly, "one Christmas he asked for a pair of Spats shoes." Luckily for Romeo, Spats go extremely well with a metallic Burberry trench.

Musical Moment: Gabrielle Alpin ('The Power of Love')

thelondonchatter — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 12:36:00 +0000

Below: John Lewis has once again produced a brrrrr...illiant Christmas commercial (watch 2011's advert here) showing a snowman’s journey to buy his snowlady the perfect gift.

Following in the footsteps of Ellie Goulding and Slow Moving Millie, this year’s advert features the voice of Gabrielle Aplin, a twenty year old singer/songwriter from Bath, whose haunting cover of Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s ‘Power of Love’ is played during the commercial. The single, which was co-produced by David Kosten and Mike Spencer, coincidentally was released 28 years to the day since ‘The Power of Love’ was originally released. In a recent interview, Gabrielle said "I was worried people might hate me because they were so attached to the original single, but I've since been in touch with Holly Johnson, and he said some lovely things about my take on his song." Beautiful. I cannot wait to hear more of her songs in 2013.

www.gabrielleaplin.co.uk

Brrrrrrrrr....

thelondonchatter — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:51:22 +0000

HAWT: Alexa Chung in Valentino

thelondonchatter — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 10:14:00 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

When British DJ/Presenter Alexa Chung attended the ‘Valentino: Master of Couture’ tribute at the Miu Miu pop-up club in London last week she wore a 1950’s-style Valentino Resort 2013 green satin dress with a cream lace overlay top and black bow belt. Accessorising her outfit with an Anya Hindmarch handbag and a pair of simple black patent Valentino Mary Jane shoes, Alexa looked both lady like and HAWT. This girl just never gets it wrong.

'Kiss Me, Kate' Press Night at The Old Vic

thelondonchatter — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 14:35:17 +0000

Last week I was invited to the press night of ‘Kiss Me, Kate’ at The Old Vic. Directed by Trevor Nunn, this all singing, all dancing, high octane performance, stars the impossibly brilliant Hannah Waddingham and Alex Bourne. The famed Broadway show, considered to be Cole Porter’s best, follows the story of an on/off couple performing in a low budget stage production of William Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming Of The Shrew.' This vibrant show (which also includes a gorgeous tap dancing Adam Garcia) has wonderful 1940’s costumes, lots of romance, gangsters, laughs, and of course, brilliantly sassy songs - Hannah Waddingham’s ‘I Hate Men’ was hysterical! I was left totally jazz handed and on a real high for days following this show… Although meeting THE Kevin Spacey at the buzzing Old Vic Tunnels after party may also have contributed to this!

Below (L-R): The picturesque Old Vic, and with Adam Garcia at the Old Vic Tunnels.

'Kiss Me, Kate' at The Old Vic - Tickets Here, until March 2nd 2013.

Kate's Retro Waves

thelondonchatter — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 09:06:00 +0000

This week Kate Middleton (above) showed off her new darker, voluminous hairdo, complete with sweeping fringe. Whilst opening the Natural History Museum’s new Treasure exhibition, the Duchess of Cambridge told complimentary onlookers, “I’m not sure about it.” The haircut does look a little dated and a little Farrah Fawcett-like, but this is almost certainly emphasised by the high cut of her retro emerald green Mulberry ‘Cabbage’ dress. Kate could in the future look to another well-known British brunette for hairspiration: Cheryl Cole. Popstar/Presenter Cheryl Cole (below) always manages to keep her enviably thick chestnut locks and feathered fringe looking modern, glossy and tamed. I am sure however, whatever the Duchess may feel about her new wispy bangs, there will be thousands of women currently rushing to their hairdressers and asking for ‘The Kate!’

The British Fashion Awards 2012

thelondonchatter — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:03:00 +0000

Last weekend’s glamourous British Fashion Awards, at The Savoy Hotel, was a STELLAr evening all round… Stella McCartney (above) not only won Designer AND Brand of the Year, but a many of the most stylish guests (including Salma Hayek and Rita Ora) also wore her designs on the night. My favourite fashionista Alexa Chung once again won the British Style Award (voted for by her adoring public for the third year running!) and Cara Delevigne (left, wearing a green metallic Burberry Prorsum SS’13 minidress), won Model of the Year – thoroughly deserved following her recent marathon Fashion Month. Harold Tillman - who steps down from his role as British Fashion Council chairman in January – received the Special Recognition.

Below (L-R): Alexa Chung in Simone Rocha with Nicholas Kirkwood shoe-boots, Erdem Moralioglu and Samantha Cameron in Erdem, Jourdan Dunn in Topshop.

Designer of the Year: Stella McCartney
Designer Brand: Stella McCartney
New Establishment: Erdem
Menswear Designer: Kim Jones for Louis Vuitton
Emerging Talent Award (Ready-To-Wear): JW Anderson
Emerging Talent Award (Accessories): Sophie Hulme
Emerging Talent Award (Menswear): Jonathan Saunders
Accessory Designer: Nicholas Kirkwood
Red Carpet Award: Roksanda Ilincic
Model: Cara Delevingne
Outstanding Achievement in Fashion: Manolo Blahnik
Special Recognition: Harold Tillman
Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator: Louise Wilson
British Style brought to you by Vodafone: Alexa Chung

Above: Amber le Bon in Stella McCartney. Below: Dita Von Teese in Jenny Packham

Kate: The Kate Moss Book

thelondonchatter — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 17:27:31 +0000

Rizzoli have released a Kate Moss coffee table book featuring a collection of photographs, chosen by Kate Moss herself, spanning the supermodel’s lengthy 20 year career. Edited by her ex-boyfriend Jefferson Hack and close friend Jess Hallett, contributing photographers include Hedi Slimane, Juergen Teller, Terry Richardson, Mario Testino, Corinne Day and Karl Lagerfeld, to name just a few! The 488 page book, which will be on EVERY fashionista’s Christmas list this year, is a ‘highly personal and complete retrospective of Kate Moss’s career, illustrating her evolution from girl to supermodel to photographic icon,’ which is also reflected by using 8 different covers (below) depicting this transformation. This book is the ultimate roundup of the ultimate British supermodel. Dear Santa…

Below (L-R): Kate Moss attending a book signing wearing SS'13 Marc Jacobs, attending her book launch at 50 St.James Street Mayfair.

'Kate: The Kate Moss Book,' RRP.£50.00
(Currently available here from Waterstones for RRP.£39.50)

Joseph's Michael Roberts for One T'shirt Launch

thelondonchatter — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 11:41:00 +0000

Last week I was invited by Joseph to their launch of Michael Robert’s One T’shirts. The Vanity Fair’s Style Director’s illustrations of the fashion industry’s most iconic faces have been printed onto a series of brightly coloured t’shirts which are now available from Joseph’s Westbourne Grove store. The T-shirts include the faces of Karl Lagerfeld, Tom Ford, Anna Wintour, Grace Coddington and Carine Roitfeld to name just a few. How much more designer can a t’shirt possibly get?

Above: With Joseph's gorgeous PR Alex Eagle (and Grace Coddington!)

Michael Robert's One T'shirts available from Joseph. RRP. £75.00

Happy 15th Anniversary Matthew Williamson

thelondonchatter — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 16:05:50 +0000

British designer Matthew Williamson’s two favourite blonde gal pals, actress Sienna Miller (above left) and model Poppy Delevigne (above right) recently got together, along with actress Andrea Riseborough and eight beautiful ballerinas from The Royal Ballet, to film ‘XV,’ a three minute short film celebrating Matthew Williamson’s 15 successful years in the fashion industry. Happy 15th Anniversary Matthew!

My London Style: Savannah Miller

thelondonchatter — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 15:31:26 +0000

After earning a first class degree in Fashion and Knitwear at the prestigious Central St. Martins College and working for both Alexander McQueen and Matthew Williamson, Savannah Miller went on to become Co-Creative Director of the label Twenty8Twelve with her sister Sienna Miller. After twelve successful seasons the stylish sisters stepped down from their positions to pursue other projects, for Savannah this led to her starting her own label, Savannah.

Launched last week (seen here) Savannah has once again created a very cool, easy-to-wear range of clothes, but this time at a far more accessible price, “This collection is for everyone!" Savannah told me, "it's effortless, easy and affordable clothing to make you feel great without busting your bank account.”

Despite being insanely busy with her new label (sold exclusively at nelly.com) and with being a dedicated mum to her three small (and perfect) children, Savannah found the time to share with The London Chatter some secrets about her enviable London style…

My Style In 3 Little Words – Classic, bohemian, easy.

This Season Every Gal Needs – A great boyfriend coat. I have an ash grey woollen one in my collection called James which I will not be taking off this season.

My British Fashion Icon – Audrey Hepburn. She was so delicate and chic. Also Alexa Chung. Like Audrey before her, Alexa's style is so effortless, her clothes never wear her and she always looks like herself, even if she is wearing a Chanel gown.

My Favourite Highstreet Store – Although not British, I love Zara. And Topshop.

My Favourite Boutique – Liberty London. I know it's not strictly a boutique, but the buy there is as if it were. It is the perfect edit of the best collections - and you know you are going to want all of it! The same applies to Amie on Ledbury Road. They only stock APC, Isabel Marant and Vanessa Bruno... What more could anyone want?!

My Favourite British Designer – To look at it would be Christopher Kane. He is an artist and he never ceases to amaze me. To wear, I would say Rag & Bone because they make the best knitwear around - it's cool and so comfortable - I live in it!

At Gunpoint; Bags OR Shoes – Bags!

My First Fashionista Memory – Ushering for Alexander McQueen at one of his show which was in a glass box. I was eighteen years old and that night totally changed my life.

My Saturday Night Outfit – Errrm... My pyjamas! I spend the weekends at home in the countryside with my family.

My Sunday Brunch Outfit – The same!

OMG I Can’t Believe I Wore – Such a short dress at mine and Sienna's first Twenty8Twelve show... When I lifted my arm to wave at the end I nearly flashed the entire audience.

Forget My Last Meal, My Last Outfit Would Be – My wedding dress. It may sound a bit Miss Haversham of me but I must admit, it was gorgeous.

My Style Tip – Iron or steam your clothes, it makes the most massive difference when you wear them. Also, don't let your clothes wear you - only wear pieces that resonate with who you are otherwise you will feel and look uncomfortable.

Above: Some of my favourite pieces from Savannah available from Nelly.com

www.savannahmiller.com

The Launch of Savannah by Savannah Miller

thelondonchatter — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 10:53:00 +0000

Last week I attended the intimate launch of designer Savannah Miller’s eponymous label ‘Savannah’ in London’s Fitzroy Square. The room was filled with crisp autumn leaves, sparkling champagne and a bevy of beautiful bright young things (including Irina Lazareanu and Clara Paget), all excited by Savannah’s first solo project since departing Twenty8Twelve, the label she co-created with her sister, Sienna. The look book contains beyond gorgeous shots of the effortlessly cool Dree Hemmingway (above and below) wearing some of the 40-piece collection which is available exclusively here from Nelly.com. The clothes are bohemian, edgy and surprisingly affordable – nothing is more expensive than £175 and I particularly like the Brinton Skirt, the Jerry Knit Jumper and I just adore the dark purple velvet Inamay Dress. Make sure to check out all the heels and boots - they are reeeeeally rock'n'roll.

Below: Savannah’s sweet swallow logo was echoed in this giant bird installation, “Swallows only nest in a house of Love" explained Savannah, whilst wearing her favourite piece from the collection, the Michelle Dress, with Olivia Palermo and Matthew Williamson.

Below (Clockwise): Kelly Eastwood with designer Savannah Miller, model Lady Mary Charteris, Savannah with actress Clara Paget and model Irina Lazareanu, bubbles with Savannah, on tip toes with model Irina Lazareanu, Savannah with Claire Eastwood.

The British Victoria's Secret 2012 Invasion

thelondonchatter — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 09:59:00 +0000

Last night Cara Delevigne (above) and Jourdan Dunn (below right) joined fellow Brit, and seasoned Angel, Lily Donaldson (below left) at the 17th Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, at the Lexington Avenue Armory, in New York. Walking alongside international beauties Miranda Kerr and Adriana Lima, the gorgeous young trio did us all proud this side of the pond, strutting their hot stuff amongst the usual abundance of feathers, sparkles, wings and hairspray. With performances by Rihanna, Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber (who seemed particularly enamoured by the stripy striking Cara!) this year’s extravaganza was divided into four sections: Circus, Dangerous Liaisons, Pink is Me and Calender Girls.

Adding force to this year’s Victoria's Secret British invasion, for the first time all of the Angels wore high heels created by the same label - British designer Nicholas Kirkwood.

Below: Brazilian Angel Alessandro Ambrosio wowed the audience whilst wearing pink orchid wings and the diamond encrusted ‘Fantasy Bra’ – a steal at a mere $2.5 million.

And just when I thought I couldn’t adore Cara Delevigne any more, she arrived at Heathrow to fly to New York for the VS show wearing… a tiger onesie. Running around the airport, Cara posed for Jourdan Dunn's iPhone underneath her polished Burberry campaign beauty shots in the Duty Free section. The models immediately instagrammed the shots. I love.

Alexa Chung: You Don't Own Me

thelondonchatter — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 09:37:00 +0000

The gorgeous NYC-based Brit Alexa Chung (left) has made no secret of her anti-Mitt Romney feelings in the run up to tomorrow's highly anticipated US Presidential election and she helped organise this impassioned, lip-synced recording of Lesley Gore’s 1964 feminist hit, ‘You Don’t Own Me.’ It was Republican Mitt Romney's damaging proposals that threatened women’s rights, including removing funding for the Planned Parenthood Fund, repealing the Affordable Care Act and the eradication of birth control cover, that prompted Alexa Chung and her super fashionable buddies (including Tavi Gevinson, Lena Dunham, Kate Nash, Tennessee Thomas, Rain Phoenix, Rachel Antonoff, Karen Elson and Zoë Kravitz) to make this effective pro-women and pro-choice statement: (G)Obama.

Wahaca's Day of the Dead Festival at the Old Vic Tunnels

thelondonchatter — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 07:42:00 +0000

Last week the delicious ‘street food’ chain Wahaca brought Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebrations to London, holding a brilliant four day Dia de los Muertos festival in the depths of The Old Vic Tunnels. The extremely emotive and vibrantly visual festival is an annual holiday celebrated throughout Mexico to honour and remember loved ones who have died.

With a traditionally painted face (above, with Jessica Pownall) which left me resembling a little zombie-panda, I indulged in the tantalising Wahaca tacos and far too many jasmine margaritas which fuelled my exploration of the vaults where an array of spooky artwork, macabre films and a hypnotic puppet show by the Theatre of Dolls awaited me. FANTASTIC music was later provided by Rodrigo y Gabriela, a Mexican duo whose vibrant energy was completely contagious, followed by the Communion DJs who both guaranteed (perhaps alongside the copious amounts of tequila served) a dance floor filled with skeleton-faced revellers dancing with wild abandon. An unforgettable night.

Above (L-R): Theatre of Dolls and photography by Graciela Iturbide.

Above: With the Director of The Old Vic Tunnels, Hamish Jenkinson.

Veolia Environnement Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition 2012

thelondonchatter — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 11:26:00 +0000

This week I went to the Natural History Museum to see my favourite annual show: the Veolia Environment Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Selected from 48,000 thousand international entries the 100 winning images of exotic, slippery, playful, dangerous and adorable wild creatures are displayed beautifully.

The environmental section, focused on mankind's frequently callous attitude towards the wildlife around them, is particularly affecting. ‘Primal Fear’ by Jabruson (left) which shows a Mozambiquan boy holding a completely terrified monkey captive is still haunting me - exactly it's intention.

This exhibition serves as an important reminder of how spectacular the animals on our ever-changing planet really are, whilst also showing off the huge respect, concern and insane talent that these intrepid photographers that capture their images possess.

The Veolia Environnement Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is on display at the Natural History Museum and runs until 3 March. Admission is £10.

Happy Heidi Halloween

thelondonchatter — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:13:09 +0000

Heidi Klum has become synonymous with Halloween after years of wearing THE best costumes found outside of a film set each year at her star-studded party every October. However, the supermodel has cancelled this year’s 14th annual celebrations after the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy. Heidi posted this photograph of herself (below) in New York, all wrapped up and wearing wellies, on Twitter saying, "Hope you and your loved ones are safe after the storm. Cancelling my Halloween party... postponing to a haunted Christmas."

With Heidi already having excitedly tweeted pictures this week from her Cleopatra costume fittings (left), impressively designed by Martin Izquierdo, I have decided to celebrate Heidi’s dedication to Halloween by posting some of her other amazing costumes… Happy Halloween Everyone!

The Name's Bond Street

thelondonchatter — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 14:13:15 +0000

The Name's Bond Street. James Bond Street.

The New Bond Girls

thelondonchatter — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 13:03:04 +0000

Forget the guns, the gadgets, the martinis and the villains; the most exiting part of any Bond film is undoubtedly always the girls. In ‘Skyfall’ Berenice Marlohe and Naomie Harris join the super beautiful, iconic ranks of becoming ‘Bond Girls.’ At last night’s glamourous world premiere of the latest Bond, held in London's Leicester Square, the two looked absolutely stunning. Berenice opted for a sizzlingly glamourous red corseted Vivienne Westwood dress (above) and Naomie glittered in a Marios Schwab mesh dress complete with iridescent sequin bodysuit (below). Mario Schwab commented this morning, "it is amazing to have Marios Schwab pieces worn to such an iconic Premiere in London."

How do you think these two beauties will match up to their predecessors?...

Frieze Art Fair 2012

thelondonchatter — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:47:00 +0000

Last weekend I went to Regent’s Park for the tenth Frieze London, one of the world’s leading contemporary art events. With so much art displayed along a dizzying grid, the whole exhibition felt like one giant creative speed dating afternoon, as I whizzed around briefly flirting with each of the 175 gallery’s presentations. Below are a few of my favourites pieces…

Above: Is it a Door? Is it Art? No... I's Frieze. Easy Mistake. Kate Moss by Mario Testino.

Above (L-R): Robert Indiana's Love and Art (1972-2000).

Above: Art appreciating art...

Above (Clockwise): 'I am the One I've Been Waiting For,' Harland Miller (2012), Untitled, Loris Greuad (2012) and 'Inthistogether' Darren Almond (2010).

Above: My favourite of the day. A portrait on old cassette tapes by Gregor Hildebrandt.

Above (L-R): 'A Balloon For Britain,' Scott King (2012) and 'Oh No' Doug Aitken (2012).

Joseph Launches Online Store TODAY

thelondonchatter — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 12:07:51 +0000

To coincide with Joseph’s 40th anniversary this year, the brand is launching it’s highly anticipated multi-brand online store allowing their customers to order their chic ready-to-wear clothing, bags, shoes and accessories directly from the new sleek website. Joseph is one of the most respected and influential brands within British fashion and I have always relied on their impeccably stylish essentials which always seem to magically work with the rest of my haphazard, ecletcic wardrobe. This will ostensibly be Joseph’s largest store to date; a huge, sparkly, digital flagship allowing us all to access the season’s hottest trends at the mere click of a mouse... Uh oh, now this could be seeeeeeeeriously dangerous!

www.joseph.co.uk

Brad Pitt's Chanel No 5 Advertisement - Part 2

thelondonchatter — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 13:27:00 +0000

It appears Chanel acknowledged my grievances yesterday about their new Chanel No 5 advert starring Brad Pitt and have acted quickly... but perhaps too quickly methinks?

I think that this new commercial seems like a rushed, emergency response to yesterday's negative feedback. 'Part 2' (more like 'Take 2'') appears to me like some footage of beautiful women has been hurriedly thrown together in an attempt to cover up some of Brad's bizarre monologue... This is all disappointingly un-Chanel. I think rather than rushing out this ineffective second attempt, I would have preferred for them to have unapologetically stood by their initial advert and accused me, in French please, of being the most 'orrrrrible of philistines for not understanding their higher level of perfume rhetoric.

Above: Conan O'Brien also decided to re-work the original advert. I think this is clear evidence why super Hollywood A-listers tend to record adverts in countries we do not readily have access to view them. Thank Heavens for YouTube... and Nicholas Cage.

Brad Pitt's Chanel No 5 Advertisement Revealed

thelondonchatter — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 16:42:00 +0000

We have all eagerly waited upon the latest Chanel No.5 advert having being teased for over a month with the teeniest, tiniest of tit-bit-Pitts, and yesterday it was finally released. Am I alone in thinking… Is that it?! Yes, Brad Pitt looks hot. Yes, Brad Pitt sounds hot. But… Where is the romance, the sweeping vistas, the fantasy… the… the… the anything?!

Marilyn Monroe’s coy giggles, Audrey Tautou’s wistful train glances and Nicole Kidman’s can-can under the Eiffel Tower, have all been replaced by a scruffy Brad Pitt and his goatee. As the first man to ever advertise the scent (a job he was paid £4.32 million for!) and with the amazing Joe Wright as his director, is it wrong that I had just expected MORE?! A pensive, sultry Brad looks as if he has rolled out of a bar and given a deeply intense monologue to an invisible flock of birds... Unintentionally funny. Ooh-La-Lazy.

Lazarides' Bedlam at the Old Vic Tunnels

thelondonchatter — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 14:53:00 +0000

Last week I attended the opening of the Lazarides Gallery’s third and final collaboration with the Old Vic Tunnels, ‘Bedlam.’ For this exhibition, Steve Lazarides commissioned artists to encapsulate the brutality and horror historically associated with London’s infamous Victorian mental asylum, Bethlam (commonly known as ‘Bedlam.’) Lazarides explained, “everyone in the art world is crazy anyway, but different artists took different things from the idea. For some it became about chaos, for others it was more medical.”

Just as the Victorians would walk around Bedlam staring at the patients, completely fascinated and intrigued by their erratic behaviour, I too walked around the Old Vic Tunnels (the most perfect venue for this exhibition’s creepy theme!) both fascinated and intrigued by the plethora of dramatic art, sculptures and installations on display.

Below Centre: Hamish Jenkinson, the Director of the Old Vic Tunnels, amongst the art.

Some stand out pieces for me were Tobias Klein’s ammonium sulphate crystal angel (patients at Bedlam would have these crystals placed beneath their skin as part of their treatment), the giant spinning swing (another treatment was to shake the mentally ill ‘back to their senses’) and Tessa Fraiser’s hanging mobile made up of rats, animal skeletons and insect wings… Quite the most disturbing thing I’ve seen in a long time.

The thin line between genius and madness was made very clear to me at this show leaving me feeling confused and ultimately disturbed – the artist’s intention I'm sure! This show will certainly leave you with an impression… and perhaps some nightmares...

Below Centre: Hamish Jenkinson interviewing gorgeous DJ/Presenter Izzy Lawrence.

'Bedlam,' presented by the Lazarides Gallery is on until October 21st. Entrance is free.

Musical Moment: Karen Elson and Ren Harvieu ('The Train Song')

thelondonchatter — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:49:12 +0000

Karen Elson, the flame haired supermodel, originally from Manchester, teamed up with the Salford-born singer Ren Harvieu to sing this captivating song. Karen contacted 21 year old Ren through mutual friends as "I thought it'd be right up her street. Within a day or so she sent it back with harmonies on it – and some creepy organ as well. It was brill.”

The song is taken from Ren's intensely emotional debut album, 'Through the Night.' Super beautiful ladies, super beautiful song. I loooove.
"It’s so many miles and so long since I’ve met you, don’t even know what I’ll find when I get to you. But suddenly now, I know where I belong ... it’s many hundred miles, but it won’t be long."

James Mylne: Vintage Vogue

thelondonchatter — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 14:57:58 +0000

Last week I attended the opening night of artist James Mylne’s ‘Vintage Vogue’ exhibition at the Rook & Raven Gallery. I was really intrigued and excited about this exhibition as James Mylne, 31, creates all his art using BIC Biros..!! Each piece of James’ work takes huge levels of concentration (mistakes cannot be rectified) and can take hundreds of hours to complete. I had to see it to believe it and the results blew me away; a room filled with beautiful and photo-realistic portraits from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Heaven. Stylish icons have been brought to life with BIC Biro on backgrounds of bright spray paint. The Audrey Hepburn images were naturally my favourites but I loved the elegance of the Coco Chanel (right) and the Steve McQueen drawing is just undeniably cool (below.) I can just imagine stationary cupboard bills soaring in offices all over London after this exhibition...

Above (L-R): Recreating 'The Audrey' pose with Vika Skyte, Celina Teague and Gayle Wyn Pugh, Izzy Lawrence with Ed Glover, Hugo Speer and Vivienne Harvey.

James Mylne: ‘Vintage Vogue’ is on at Rook & Raven until October 31st. Entrance is free.

HAWT - Poppy Delevigne in Louis Vuitton

thelondonchatter — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 13:50:51 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

Poppy Delevigne arrived to take her seat on the Louis Vuitton SS’13 FROW on the final day of Paris Fashion Week looking très chic. The model wore a beautiful midnight blue pleated chiffon dress from the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2013 collection accessorised with the label’s navy blue perspex heels. Some red lipstick and a poppy red Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière Monogram Empreinte bag added some colour to her look, and the shape of the bag made this outfit far more appropriate for the daytime than if she had chosen a clutch. Ooh la la. Très bien Poppy!

Debit Buy: H&M Floral Trousers

thelondonchatter — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 12:54:08 +0000

The first day you are forced to wear you A/W coat is always a sorry one. I was so glad that on this particular dreaded day I had my new pair of H&M floral trousers to help with this seasonal transition (my glittery shoes may also have helped too!) I adore this print - the same one that Lana Del Rey models in the latest H&M campaign (below). The high street is still currently blooming with many fabulous floral pieces after having a summer inspired by designers such as Erdem and Celine. So hurry and pick your favourite bunch...

H&M Floral Trousers RRP. £24.99

PFW - Alexander McQueen

thelondonchatter — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:41:08 +0000

'Bees' was the buzz word at the Alexander McQueen SS’13 show in Paris. Luckily without a stripe in sight (could there have been a more prevalling trend for next Spring?!) this collection honed in on the female form, going 'back to womanhood' and merely using bees, which designer Sarah Burton explained are “a matriarchal society where the females rule,” as inspiration to portray this.

There were clinched waists, caged peplums and figure-hugging cigarette pants in honeycomb prints, jacquard fabric and golden hues. Flowers and bees were seen decorating dresses, and models even wore bee-keeper style hats and glittering, golden platforms as they strutted to the tune of ‘Sugar Sugar.’ The McQueen Bee.

PFW - Chanel SS'13

thelondonchatter — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 11:56:00 +0000

‘Fashion Month’ always ends on a high in Paris with the iconic French fashion houses in competition to put on the most memorable of shows. Chanel was never going to disappoint. Karl Lagerfeld had models parade his SS’13 Chanel collection along a wind turbine and solar panel lined runway in the cavernous hall of the Grand Palais. Playing with this concept of wind and energy, the collection was, as Lagerfeld explained, “all about volume and lightness, because usually volume and lightness don’t go together.”

Left: Karl Lagerfeld in THAT shirt and THAT tie. A huge difference to usual monochromatic style.

Below: The towering wind turbines. “Energy is the most important thing in life,” Karl Lagerfeld told reporters backstage after the show.

The collection reflected the traditional heritage of the label and the elegance of Coco Chanel, particularly reflected in the tweed and pearl embellishment but with a distinctly modern aesthetic. I really enjoyed seeing the cocoon cuts and bell sleeves which provided a relaxed feel amongst the summery, neutral colour palate that was chosen.

Below and Left: Before this model had even left the catwalk this hoola-hoop style handbag had caused a veritable storm on the Twittersphere. I can't imagine this being the easiest of bags to manipulate whilst shopping, dancing or on the tube?! I cannot wait to see who is seen out and about next summer with this particular piece of arm/shoulder candy!

Above and Below: Oversized pearls embellished a huge proportion of the Chanel SS'13 collection, with many of the models also wearing pearl chokers around their necks and pearl clusters around their wrists, and they all wore a single pearl in their ponytails.

Below: My favourite piece from the collection - the movement in this dress was gorgeous.

Below: The beautiful Chanel-clad FROW (L-R) Stylist (and fashion favourite of mine) Caroline Sieber, model Laura Bailey, DJ Leigh Lezark and model Poppy Delevigne.

Cara Delevigne - Model Du Jour

thelondonchatter — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:12:09 +0000

Phew!! Was there a single catwalk in the past fashion month that Cara Delevigne did not walk?! The British model du jour, Cara appeared in 28 shows over the course of New York, London, Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks, making her the most booked model of the season. Cara walked for Burberry, Matthew Williamson, Marchesa, Jason Wu, Rag & Bone, Fendi, D-Squared, Sass & Bide, Mary Katrantzou, Ermanno Scervino, Acne, Marc Jacobs... And the prestigious list goes ON! This girl deserves a BIG holiday (and a foot rub...)

And behind the scenes... Some of Cara's Tweets. What's NOT to love about this girl?!!

Martha Freud's Exhibition

thelondonchatter — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 14:31:00 +0000

As part of the London Design Festival I recently went to Covent Garden’s Hospital Club, for a private viewing of Martha Freud’s latest exquisite design exhibition, ‘Light Impressions’. The stunning imprinted porcelain work results from Martha’s continued fascination with nature and the beauty of short-lived organisms. In particular I loved the contrast between the illuminated sprat fish staged amongst the more romantic and ethereal ceramic flowered light fixtures which I have long adored. The beautiful and talented Martha, the Great-Granddaughter to Sigmund and Granddaughter of Clement, who is expecting a baby with partner Adam Smith (below right, and below left with brother Jack) said, “it will be interesting to see how the little one influences my work… I feel I still have a lot to explore in my quest to harness an element of nature’s beauty.”

MFW - Prada SS'13

thelondonchatter — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 14:24:00 +0000

I think when I look back on this year’s Milan Fashion Week the images that will first spring/summer to mind will be THOSE PRADA SHOES. With obvious Harajuku and Geisha Girl references throughout the whole of Miuccia Prada’s latest collection (floral appliqué and stenciled white flowers adorned kimono style dresses overcoats) it was the shoes that will have left the most lasting impression amongst the fash pack.

The controversial sock/clog combo boots, decorated with satin bows and flowers, left the show’s audience divided but ultimately fascinated. Love them or hate them, I cannot wait to see how Topshop and H&M reinterpret and filter down this seemingly unuuusual style of shoe onto our high street next year, and who will be brave enough to wear them...

Jean Paul Gaultier Diet Coke

thelondonchatter — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 15:01:00 +0000

This must be the most chic Diet Coke Break possible.. French designer Jean Paul Gaultier has followed in the feet of Matthew Williamson, Karl Lagerfeld and Roberto Cavalli by becoming this year's creative director for Diet Coke. The limited edition designs (left) named 'Day' and 'Night,' are available at Harvey Nichols but I was lucky enough to be given one at Vodafone's London Fashion Weekend.

Below: With my haute bottle of Diet Coke.

Vodafone London Fashion Weekend

thelondonchatter — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:10:00 +0000

Just when I thought London Fashion Week was over and the ungodly swarm of models that invaded London had all jetted on to Milan, taking their insanely long legs with them, Vodafone UK sent me an invitation to their London Fashion Weekend...

Twice a year, Somerset House hosts London’s largest and most exclusive shopping event holding catwalk shows, pop up shops, fashion panels whilst offering mahooosive discounts from designers to the public. DJ/Presenter Izzy Lawrence (left) and I attended on the first day where we watched the Daks’ A/W’12 show (presented by a leather-clad Zoe Hardman, below) and made good use of the genius Vodafone mobile rechargers on the Front Row and then watched a talk held by elle.com editor Carrie Tyler and designer Henry Holland (above) both of whom I interned for maaaany years ago! This event really makes Fashion Week a little more accessible to everyone, the vibe is very welcoming and unpretentious and I would definitely recommend getting tickets next season.

LFW - The Mulberry Willow

thelondonchatter — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 15:20:00 +0000

Known for its British eccentricity, Mulberry transformed Claridges into an English country garden for its SS'13 show. With astro turf, a sprinkling of gnomes and pastel-layered cream cakes, the quintessentially English summer mood was perfectly captured. With the world’s most perfect FROW, Alexa Chung, Kate Moss and Lana Del Rey, the scene was set for the sophisticated, 1970s inspired, softly coloured collection to be unveiled. The star of the show was the latest addition to the Mulberry family, the Willow. The tote bag comes in three sizes and has a detachable clutch (a clote?!) which makes it perfectly practical and suuurely (with its 2 for 1 allure), a more than justifiable purchase?! Mulberry’s creative director Emma Hill said, “everyone likes something that you can take off or add on, well I always do. I think it’s the kid in me that likes Transformer toys when you can turn something into something else.”

With Mulbabes Lana Del Rey showing off her Mulberry Del Rey, and Alexa Chung clasping her Mulberry Alexa, did Kate Moss feel a little put out and pouty that the Mulberry Willow had not been named after her? Her declaration after the show, whilst holding said black snakeskin Willow (below) would suggest as much, “I wanted this one to be the Mulberry Moss bag but it’s not, it’s the Willow. But I love this one because it doubles as a clutch. It’s genius.” Keep those fingers crossed for next season Kate...

LFW - Burberry SS'13

thelondonchatter — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:08:00 +0000

One thing, and one thing alone, went through my mind during the Burberry SS’13 finale at London Fashion Week… Quality Streets. My addiction to chocolate aside, it was a remarkable sight to see; model after model wearing an array of rainbow-coloured metallic coats marching around the catwalk at Kensington Gardens, whilst the star-studded audience, including Dita von Teese, Victoria Pendleton and… Harry Styles, cheered enthusiastically.

Inspired by Norman Parkinson photographs from the 1940s and 50s, Christopher Bailey named the collection ‘Corsage and Cape,’ and whilst respecting the strong British style which Burberry traditionally has adhered to, the designer replaced the camel tones we usually associate with the brand with vibrant metallic raspberry, lavender, emerald and sapphire. “The collection was a bit more joyful and quite sassy and a bit sexy,” Bailey told reporters backstage.

LFW - Philip Treacy SS'13

thelondonchatter — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 22:34:00 +0000

It has been 13 years since the world famous milliner Philip Treacy last staged a show in London and he certainly made sure he returned with a bang. Wearing a nude bodysuit, a floor length pink neon veil and a pair of Alexander McQueen silver platform boots, Lady Gaga opened the mesmerising Fashion Week show at the Royal Courts of Justice. Lady Gaga continued to wow fashionable onlookers by taking to her seat peeping out of a multicoloured floral headpiece (left). The show featured only black models, including Alex Wek and Jourdan Dunn, dressed in jackets from the archive of Michael Jackson, modelling an array of hats including a miniature Neverland fairground, a working carousel and Minnie Mouse style ears to the sounds of Billie Jean.

I reeeeeally hope we see Princess Bea rocking these hats at Buckingham Palace soon...

LFW - Huishan Zhang SS'13

thelondonchatter — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:15:00 +0000

I was lucky enough to be invited to Huishan Zhang’s SS’13 presentation in the Portico Rooms at Somerset House this London Fashion Week. This was the Chinese, Central St. Martin educated designer’s highly anticipated debut at Fashion Week and I was holding one hot ticket. There were three presentations held throughout the morning and each one was as jam packed as the next.

The collection was a contemporary take on a more traditional Chinese style, taking inspiration from Chinese dresses (silk fabrics with high necks and leg slits), Huishan Zhang has created beautifully feminine, delicately detailed dresses all with an edge of strength and power to them.

Stunning Chinese imagery (including miniature pagodas, mahjong tiles and Swarovski crystal embellished ancient birds) is printed on to beautiful ruffled backless dresses with ethereal, patterned lace detailing on striking midnight blues, pretty blushes, exquisite aquamarine and minty green coloured silks. The entire collection had a distinctly youthful, modern and exciting feel to it, encouraged by the models’ colourfully painted, shimmering cheekbones and double plaited ponytails. Huishan Zhang is not just a designer, he is an artist and I am really excited to see what he will come up with next.

New York Fashion Week's SS'13 Trends

thelondonchatter — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 13:55:00 +0000

After eight days of being glued to the shows at New York Fashion Week I have been shown an insight into what next year's fashion holds in store. Amongst the sporty references, monochrome combinations, oversized silhouettes and powerful prints, there were four main trends which I could see standing out above the rest...

1. FIFTY SHADES OF GREY

An S&M influence was clear to see on the catwalks, and although this has said to have been inspired by famed fashion photographer Helmut Newton's iconic black and white images, I think it may also be accredited to the bestselling novel, 'Fifty Shades of Grey.' When even Oscar de la Renta, known for his ultra feminine style, succumbs to using leather and latex, you know next Spring's wardrobe will be all kinds of racy.

Above: Herve Leger By Max Azria

Above: Jason Wu

Above: Oscar de la Renta

2. CUTAWAY

Following on from the previous trend, even more skin was shown on the SS'13 runways this Fashion Week with several designers slicing and dicing their dissected garments.

Above: Peter Som

Above: Victoria Beckham

3. FEARLESS SHEERNESS

Once again, MORE skin! This trend however, is a far more subtle way of showing off your body, with sheer paneling and 'peekaboo' layering.

Above: J Mendel

Above: Charlotte Ronson

4. BOLD STRIPES

Horizontal, vertical, monochrome, colourful, barcode, prisoner... you name it, the NYFW SS'13 runways had it! There were dizzying zigs and zags in every direction!

Above: Marc Jacobs

Above: Michael Kors

Above: Oscar de la Renta

NYFW - New Kids On The Fashion Block

thelondonchatter — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:06:00 +0000

Watch out Suri Cruise, there are two other mini fashionistas in New York this week.

Below: Harper Beckham made the most adorable addition to mum Victoria’s front row. Wearing a little white summer dress with a matching bow in her hair, the oh-so-cute 14 month old Baby Beckham was particularly distracting for the audience invited to watch the Victoria, Victoria Beckham (VVB) SS’13 collection during New York Fashion Week.

Below: Another little trendy tot to hit New York Fashion Week was designer Alexander Wang’s three year old niece, Aila. Wearing a custom-made Wang dress, accessorized with teeny tiny Nike trainers and a teeny tiny Chanel bag (probably stuffed with sweeties and crayons) Aila was the most fashionable of mascots at her uncle’s show.

NYFW - Marchesa SS'13

thelondonchatter — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 13:36:00 +0000

Keren Craid and Georgina Chapman delivered the Indian Summer I had been praying for with their stunning collection of beaded gowns with sari style layering. Although the Marchesa designers used a vivid colour palette (fuchsia and garnet featured) it was the shimmering white gowns with their sparkling bodice detailing that had me entranced.

NYFW - Carmen Dell'Orefice: The Oldest Supermodel

thelondonchatter — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:35:00 +0000

The world’s oldest supermodel, 81 year old Carmen Dell'Orefice, elegantly strutted not once, but twice, down the catwalk today during New York Fashion Week to rapturous applause. The beautiful, silver haired octegenarain looked totally chic as she walked for the designers Norisol Ferrari in a caramel 1940s-inspired gown and then again, barefoot in a technicolour jersey dress, by Finnish label Marimekko. Carmen, a well established and iconic member of today's New York fashion scene, first began modelling in 1947, at the age of 15, when she was photographed for the front cover of Vogue Magazine (above).

NYFW - Zac Posen SS'13

thelondonchatter — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 14:35:00 +0000

Oooh Laaa Laaaa! I LOVED the SS’13 show in New York Fashion Week by Zac Posen: Super Dresses on Super Models. Naomi Campbell, Coco Rocha, Karolina Kurkova, Alex Wek and Erin O’Connor all took to the catwalk in Zac's unbelievably elegant and timeless gowns. There was a clear ‘Old Hollywood’ influence with the designer having created floor length dresses with mermaid pleats and sweetheart necklines in the most luxurious of coloured silk and delicate chiffon. Totally stunning. Coming to a red carpet near you.

Simples

thelondonchatter — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 21:14:00 +0000

Vogue's Fashion Night Out, London 06/09/12

thelondonchatter — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 18:21:00 +0000

Fashion’s Night Out was initially created by Vogue and the Council of Fashion Designers of America as a way of encouraging fashionistas to hit the shops as the economic downfall kicked in. For real fashion lovers this day has become like Christmas… Well, if the North Pole were Bond Street, stockings were made by Mulberry and Santa was Alexa Chung...

Now on it’s 4th year, this global phenomenon (with events also taking place in Manhattan, Milan, Atlanta, etc) saw London’s biggest luxury stores throw open their doors after hours, inviting us all in to celebrate and shop with a glass of bubbly. The whole evening felt like a stylish carnival, with live music blaring, show stopping outfits and fashion-friendly food from a Missoni ice-cream van, a Dak’s popcorn stall and a Hotel Chocolat pop up (apparently fashionistas and models will eat junk food – if its designer.)

I began my evening in Covent Garden where I visited the newly launched Ruby Ralph Lauren shop on King Street, the first to open in Europe. The shop has such a fun and vibrant energy to it that I immediately got into the spirit of the night, having my pictures taken (below) holding their skull and crossbones tote and listening to great music spun by the gorgeous DJ Izzy Lawrence (above) wearing head to toe Rugby Ralph Lauren.

Next stop was the jam packed, unusually pedestrianised, Bond Street to visit Joseph where a dapper, suited and booted Henry Holland (below, in House of Holland) headed up a fashion Bingo competition. The prizes were incredible and the cocktails were a plenty.

The epicentre of this most stylish of street parties was undeniably at Mulberry, where Vogue’s Alex Shulman and Mulberry’s Emma Hill held the official Fashion’s Night Out soirée. With goody bags, prizes, live music and a healthy dose of celebrites and designers (including Matthew Williamson, Roland Mouret, Laura Bailey and Daisy Lowe) queues to get in the shop were lengthy… to put it mildly! Below (L-R): Joseph's Alex Eagle and her ah-mah-zing Nicholas Kirkwood shoes, and with my girlfriends Jessica, Emma and Lauren.

The official Vogue's 2012 Fashion's Night Out cotton T’shirt (top, worn by Edie Campbell) designed by London-based designer Jonathan Saunders in collaboration with The Gap, sold out at the Condé Nast Worldwide store in less than an hour. The limited edition piece is now only available for you to own if you subscribe to Vogue (£19.99 for 10 issues) here.

Anna Dello Russo's 'Fashion Shower'

thelondonchatter — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 09:06:00 +0000

Self-proclaimed 'guardian of fashion' Anna Dello Russo, the Japanese Vogue fashion director renown for her creative style, has released a bonkers music video to promote her upcoming accessories range for H&M (that I wrote about here.) In this music video, whilst adorned in her H&M accessories and a skin-tight PVC mini dress, Anna Dello Russo advises her more than captive audience to take a ‘Fashion Shower,’ whilst chanting her golden rules of style. Juuuust incase you get mildly distracted by the video itself, Anna's fashion rules (which must obviously be read in an elaborate Italian accent) are as follows;

1: Fashion is a declaration of your own freedom.
2: Between style and fashion? Absolutely fashion.
3: Fashion is always uncomfortable; if you feel comfortable you never get the look.
4: Fabulous at every age.
5: Wearing night clothes in the daytime is unexpected.
6: Somebody wearing your same outfit? Wonderful, you did the right choice.
7: You must wear outfit once.
8: Wear coat as a dress.
9: It doesn't matter the size of your body, fashion flatter everything.
10: Fashion jewels personalise your style.

"Accessories are like vitamins to fashion — as such, you should use them liberally."

The Anna Dello Russo for H&M accessories collection arrives in-store on October 4 2012.

British Style Award Nominees 2012 - Vote Now!

thelondonchatter — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 10:25:00 +0000

Who do you think most embodies the spirit of London?

You can once again vote to decide the winner of the British Style Award brought to you by Vodafone for this year’s British Fashion Awards, on November 27th 2012.

The nominees for this award, which was (unsurprisingly) won by Alexa Chung in both 2010 and 2011, was complied by a panel of key industry opinion formers and includes Cara Delevingne, Florence Welch, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Victoria Beckham... And of course, Alexa Chung. A few boys also made the list; David Beckham, David Gandy and Tinie Tempah.

Interestingly, after the Jubilympic summer we have just had, there are also several members of the Royal Family included on this year’s nominations, including The Queen herself… HOW I would LOVE for her to win/reign over all our favourite fashionistas!

Voting is open until the 31st October 2012 and you can vote here. You will be entered into a prize draw to win two tickets to attend the British Fashion Awards ceremony.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley for Autograph, M&S Lingerie

thelondonchatter — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 12:10:19 +0000

This morning Rosie Huntington-Whiteley officially launched her much anticipated ‘Rosie for Autograph’ lingerie range at the M&S flagship store in Marble Arch. The 33-piece range of underwear features luxe lingerie sets, a teddy and a beautiful silk kimono, and with their rose-prints and art deco inspired detailing, the collection has a very 1930s boudoir look to them – the Devon-born supermodel’s favourite era of fashion. Rosie said: 'M&S is an iconic British brand, adored by many so I'm very excited to be launching my debut lingerie line with them.' The stunning collection is available in store today and online here.

Debit Buy: Topshop Beaded Beyonce Bag

thelondonchatter — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 16:18:02 +0000

If ever life just becomes too tough, I find myself asking, 'What Would Beyonce Do?!' Yes. In a matter of seconds I am remembering my 'Halo,' 'Who Runs Tha World' and just how 'Irreplaceable' and Booootilicccciooous I truly am ;)
Today however, whilst contemplating 'WWBD' I was pointed in the direction of Topshop, where Mrs Z herself recently picked up this surprisingly affordable and colourful Aztec beaded bag.

Topshop Beaded Body Bag, RRP. £30.00

The 48th Notting Hill Carnival

thelondonchatter — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 09:24:00 +0000

My favourite day to attend The Notting Hill Carnival each year is on the Sunday, traditionally known as Children’s Day. I find the atmosphere on this day always more relaxed… That is, if you could ever find thousands of feathered, sparkly, face-painted children, a multitude of banging steal drums, and around one million revelers attending Europe’s biggest annual street party, at all relaxing...
Whilst weaving my way through the streets (crocodile style!) with my friends, I saw this boy (below & top) balanced perfectly on a Pay and Display metre, dancing to the resounding sound of reggae music being blasted out from a nearby soundsystem. Super impressive!

Musical Moment: Sam and the Womp ('Bom Bom')

thelondonchatter — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 17:12:09 +0000

Fronted by Bloem de Ligny, Sam and the Womp are an 8-piece British group who formed in 2009 who fuse Balkan Music, Jamaican Ska and disco (intrigued?!) ‘Bom Bom’ was released earlier this month and is the perfect, euphoric, happy song to get you in the mood for the The Notting Hill Carnival this Bank Holiday weekend. Enjoy!

"But I'm so cool, and I'm so groovy,
when I go Bom Bom Bom!"

David Beckham's H&M Statues

thelondonchatter — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 14:11:27 +0000

This morning commuters posed for photographs outside the H&M Regent Street store next to two glistening,10-foot high statues of David Beckham in his underwear. The marvelous, metallic effigies of ~~Golden~~ Silver Balls himself are in celebration of the footballer’s second bodywear collection with the Swedish high street brand. A further seven statues will be unveiled at mystery locations across the U.K soon. I would like one of these locations to be my balcony please.

Below: The new range has also been captured by photographer Alasdair McLellan in a series of black and white photographs… Which I also thought I'd share. I'm really thoughtful like that. Happy Bank Holiday Weekend!

David Beckham Bodywear for H&M available here.

Naturally Beautiful, Beautifully Natural: My Facial With Abigail James At Lomax Chelsea

thelondonchatter — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 11:31:00 +0000

I went to Lomax Chelsea last week for the most extraordinary facial. I was lucky enough to secure an appointment with one of London’s top facialists; holistic therapist Abigail James. When the UK’s most well regarded beauty editors are vying for time with Abigail’s healing and expert hands, you know you’re in for a real treat! Steering clear of all synthetic products and cosmetics, Abigail’s mantra is ‘Naturally Beautiful, Beautifully Natural,’ and the organic approach to health and wellbeing she extols reveal fantastic benefits – namely, glowing and clear skin.

The whole experience was truly bespoke. I filled out a detailed questionnaire, covering all my skin routines, product preferences, medical conditions and dietary choices, which Abigail then read through and discussed at length with me before the facial, enabling her to design a treatment based on my specific requirements and needs. When I was completely comfortable in one of the 5 Lomax treatment rooms, Abigail went on to give me a really relaxing, super beneficial facial, which included some manual lymphatic drainage and facial reflexology to encourage my skin’s natural healing and vitality. The products she used were all ethical and organic, little known, niche brands (OSKIA, Dr Alkaitis and Live Native) but I certainly intend to track them down. I would have happily fallen asleep as she fluttered these lotions and potions over my face like a butterfly but I did not want to miss a moment.

After the facial Abigail gave me fantastic advice on what products to use and where to find them, and how I can better my overall health, which in turn, would also improve my skin. I left feeling completely relaxed, rosy-cheeked and with a long shopping list.

Thank you again Abigail xx

The Chanel 'Little Black Jacket' Exhibition Comes to London

thelondonchatter — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 15:40:29 +0000

Chanel’s latest photographic exhibition, ‘The Little Black Jacket,’ inspired by a coffee table book created by Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld, will soon be hitting our very own shores after huge successes in Tokyo, New York, Taipei and Hong Kong.

The iconic ‘Little Black Jacket’ was first designed in the 1950s by Coco Chanel and has undergone several transformations and reinventions since. Karl Lagerfeld believes firmly that style is not a result of the garment you wear, but how you wear the garment, and this exhibition shows the versatility and timelessness of this iconic jacket. With 113 ‘friends of the House,’ including models, stylists, actors, designers and musicians, all photographed adapting the classic jacket in unique and modern ways their very own individuality and inimitable styles are highlighted.

Photographs include Lily Allen wearing the covetable tweed jacket as a cape, Claudia Schiffer wearing hers with a white apron, Alexa Chung teaming hers with cut off Daisy Duke shorts and SJP creatively wearing her jacket as a crown!
Eek! I'm SO excited!

Running simultaneously with the exhibition, window displays in Chanel's boutiques across London will present a selection of jackets from the latest collections.

The highly anticipated book, ‘The Little Black Jacket: Chanel's Classic Revisited by Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld,’ will also be available worldwide in bookstores this autumn.

October 12 - October 28, 2012
The Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York's HQ, King's Road, London, SW3 4RY.

Admission will be free.

www.thelittleblackjacket.chanel.com

Beyonce Performs 'I Was Here' For United Nations World Humanitarian Day

thelondonchatter — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 12:01:00 +0000

Earlier this month Beyonce donned a sparkly Marc Bouwer gown and recorded the video for her latest song, ‘I Was Here,’ in front of a live audience at the United Nations in New York. The video was released on Monday, August 19th, World Humanitarian Day with the goal “to inspire people all over the world to do something good, no matter how big or small, for someone else.” The video features footage from recent disasters and images of humanitarian workers who have made a real difference.

Beyonce recently revealed, “I feel like we all want to know that our life meant something and that we did something for someone else… That we spread positivity no matter how big or how small.” Prepare to well up a little...

www.whd-iwashere.org

Lana Del Rey's Campaign for H&M

thelondonchatter — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:07:14 +0000

I mentioned here that Lana Del Rey was to be the new face of H&M’s A/W’12 campaign and I can now reveal the results.

The 10-page lookbook, photographed by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, show the singer modeling H&M’s latest collection looking like a melancholic, dainty doll from a 1960’s film noir, with back-combed hair, dark winged eyeliner, trademark pouty lips. The collection is made up primarily of pastel colours but they are given a harder edge when mixed with charcoal greys and burgundy staples. I particularly like the abstract, printed pieces Lana wears, the velvet heels, chandelier earrings and adorable little bows in her hair.

Lana has recorded a cover of ‘Blue Velvet’ for H&M that will be released on September 19. While we wait on the release I am still loving the remix of Lana’s ‘Blue Jeans.’

Wilderness Festival 2012

thelondonchatter — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 08:52:00 +0000

Last weekend I went to the idyllic Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire to enjoy the funshine at Wilderness. Organised by the team behind the Secret Garden Party and Lovebox, the two-year old festival is distinctly original and unlike any other I have been to.

With an emphasis on ‘feasting, lounging and partying,’ Wilderness attracts a diverse, family-friendly crowd (there were as many beer-hungry ravers as there were milk-hungry babies) as it combines music, food, talks, debates, outdoor pursuits and late-night parties in equal measure.

With a beautiful boating (and for the more brave/buff, skinny dipping) lake, horseriding, fly-fishing, a spa sanctuary with hot tubs, yoga classes, massage tents, screenings by Secret Cinema, theatre, talks, debates, an array of craft stalls and an exceptional array of delicious food, the whole occasion is both creative and relaxing. Tim Harvey, who organises the festival said, “Wilderness is more than just a feast for the eyes and ears… It’s a place to indulge the senses, relax, and eat well.” And Indulge I certainly did....

Rodrigo Y Gabriela, Lianne La Havas, Spiritualized, Crystal Fighters, Temper Trap and Wilco were all playing at the festival, but the real headliners were the celebrated chefs Yotam Ottolenghi, Fergus Henderson and Valentine Warner who all staged decadent banquets across the weekend. There was also a very popular Moro Souk Tent (below) and the Thyme Cookery School were at the festival offering some excellent classes.

The copious, delicious food stalls spread generously around the park were certainly not offering the usual greasy festival fodder… With Fin and Flounder, Poco Loco, Churros Bros, Annie Mae’s, and my favourite chilli wraps from Arancini Brothers ('World Famous in ALL Posh Towns!') I could have been rolled home on Sunday.

Below: Festival Style - I loved these unfussy, simple and chic looks.

This year Wilderness joined forces with The Vintage Festival (previously held at London’s Southbank.) So, admist the more usual festival attire (flower garlands, hotpants, colourful Hunter wellies) there was fantastic retro and sexy pin-up fashion in abundance (left and below).

Adding to the eccentricity of this festival, there was an immense vintage market (which I had to be dragged kicking and screaming to vacate), a 1950’s beauty parlour, a roller disco, and a stunning swing/jazz club offering dance classes.

Below: Not a festival trend I EVER wish to see again... Leave the tails to the children!

Below: I felt like Joan of Arc in this incredible Prangsta Costumiers Head Candy.

Love. Want. Need. Please.

Below: The wonderful Jack Savoretti
Watch my video of Jack singing 'Take Me Home,' one of my favourites, here.

The highlight of my weekend however, was The Old Vic Tunnels Masked Ball. An enormous masked crowd were led by an African percussion troupe in a midnight procession, from the Wilderness Stage into the Wychwood forest, for a magical extravaganza which had three DJs playing throughout the wood into the wee hours.

(Above: With You Magazine's Amy Williams and Old Vic Tunnel Director, Hamish Jenkinson.) Amidst the corsets and stunning venetian masks I found myself, in a leopard print catsuit and cat mask, dancing alongside an array of heroic Batmen, a Skeletor, various furry faced animals, several morph suited revelers, and some bloke in a mankini…

Below: The Old Vic Tunnel's Masked Ball certainly put the 'Wild' into the Wilderness.

Early Bird tickets are already available for Wilderness 2013 here.
Sign. Me. Up.

Vodafone UK Announces Partnership With Mary Katrantzou

thelondonchatter — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:31:08 +0000

Yesterday morning, over cappuccinos and mini granola berry pots at Soho House, I heard how this Autumn Vodafone UK and acclaimed fashion designer Mary Katrantzou, famous for her graphic print dresses, will enter into an exclusive two-season partnership. This collaboration will see Vodafone UK supporting Mary’s shows in London Fashion Week and the designer devising a fashionable and innovative way to use Vodafone technology.

Vodafone UK have long championed British fashion, teaming up in the past with other well renowned designers, Christopher Kane and Richard Nicoll (the results of which saw a fleet of London cabs decorated in Kane’s Galaxy print, with mobile phone charging capabilities for it’s passengers, and Nicholl’s unforgettable white leather handbag with in-built phone charger!)

Danielle Crook, Vodafone’s UK Director of Brand Marketing, also assured me that they will once again at this year’s LFW be providing the life saving mobile phone re-charging units on the front row at the BFC space and pop-up re-charging points at Somerset House – Phew!

(Above L-R: Mary Katrantzou, Danielle Crook and Chairman of the BFC, Caroline Rush)

The lovely Mary Katrantzou, who I had the real pleasure of meeting (left), spoke enthusiastically about the upcoming collaboration, “I am excited to be working with Vodafone, as a brand they have really cemented their credibility and support within the fashion industry over the past few seasons. Their innovation elements really appeal to me and it felt a natural fit to join forces. I'm really looking forward to be able to widen the fashion net to their customers and bring them to the front line of fashion week.”

Danielle Crook, whilst wearing a head turning Mary Katrantzou dress, said, “Mary's bold graphics and iconic designs have attracted a cult following from every part of the fashion world and we are thrilled to be working with her.” The partnership launches next month and will run across the spring/summer 2013 and autumn/winter 2013-14 shows.

If you are a Vodafone UK customer you can register for Vodafone VIP online here for the opportunity to meet Mary Katrantzou and watch her catwalk show during LFW. If you are NOT a Vodafone UK customer... There's never been a better reason to become one!

Super Girl Power at the Closing Ceremony

thelondonchatter — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:21:00 +0000

There was some SERIOUS Girl Power in the Olympic Stadium on Sunday night when we were not only treated to an awesome Spice Girls reunion but also to a strutting swarm of stunning Supermodels.

Ever since Stella McCartney signed up to design the Team GB outfits (unsurprisingly, the most coveted by all other athletes) fashion was always going to play a part in London 2012. Soooo… Who wore who?

The Spice Girls

Victoria Beckham looked very ‘Posh' in a stunning, custom-made Giles Deacon dress with black Christian Louboutin stilettos. Ginger Geri Haliwell paid homage to her infamous Brit Award’s Union Jack dress wearing this Suzanne Neville peplum dress, an Olympic inspired tiara and Isabel Marant gold Dicker boots. ‘Baby’ Emma Bunton wore her signature pink in a dress by Maggie Cook with glittery heels. Melanie C wore a white jumpsuit from JD Sports with some Sporty silver wedged trainers. Melanie B wore a nude cat suit embellished with amazing gold detailing by Lenanese designer Zuhair Murad – definitely more sexy than Scary! A-Zig-A-Zig-Aaah.

The Supers

This army of British Beauties were a glittering mirage of gold medal hues in outfits created by iconic British designers. A totally immaculate vision paying tribute to British fashion and it's Midas Touch.

The Supermodels were styled by Lucinda Chambers, Vogue UK's fashion director, who nervously spoke from backstage on the night, "It's incredible that Britain, such a tiny country, has such a broad range of talent in fashion, and that's what we wanted to show. We're known for bonkers fashion, but what I hope came across is that these designers make beautiful clothes… that people would want to wear."

Above: Kate Moss in a mermaid-like, gold and silver Alexander McQueen dress.

Above (L-R): Karen Elson glamourously glistening in Burberry and Naomi Cambell looking beyond radiant in Alexander McQueen.

Above (L-R): Stella Tennant glitters in a Christopher Kane tuxedo while Lily Cole is effortlessly ethereal in Erdem.

Above: Lily Donaldson shimmering in Vivienne Westwood

Above (L-R): Georgia May Jagger shines in Victoria Beckham, David Eye-Candy Gandy wears a suit by Paul Smith and Jourdan Dunn models a Christopher Kane dress and a feathered headpiece by Stephen Jones.

18 carat Fashion Fabulous.

These images appear in Vogue's September Issue - Out Now.

London 2012 - An Olympic Triumph!

thelondonchatter — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 11:09:00 +0000

Having spent the last fortnight completely glued to the Olympic Games, cheering on Team GB (who won a staggering 29 Gold Medals), weeping over every heroic triumph, every graceful defeat and every epic BBC montage, I cannot think of a better place to have spent the last 16 days, other than London.

I believe these games have inspired a generation and there is no doubt that Rio De Janiro has some awfully BIG (fabulous and sparkly) booties to fill.

Well done London!

Here are just a few of my favourite moments and most lasting memories…

Above: The latest Bond Girl... The Queen! Having HRH being escorted into Danny Boyle's Opening Ceremony extrvaganza by noneother than Daniel Craig's James Bond was nothing short of genius. What a great sense of humour and great sport!

Above and Below: I was lucky enough to go to Stratford's Olympic Stadium to watch the athletics. Amongst other things, I watched Usain 'Lightning' Bolt in his 200m heat... WOW. (And yes... that IS a Team GB headband... and that IS glittery gold nailpolish...!)

Below: Gold medalists Mo Farah and Usain Bolt swap signature poses on the podium.
Both total LEGENDS.

Below: After racing against double-amputee Oscar Pistorious in the 400m semi-final, 19 year old Grenadian Kirani James (who went on to win the Olympic Gold) asked to swap name badges with him, "competing against Oscar is a huge honour… He’s an inspiration for all of us. What he does… takes a lot of courage. He’s very special to our sport.”

Below: Team GB poster girl and much loved athelete Jessica Ennis was crowned Olympic heptathlon champion. Ennis said, "I want to thank everyone who has supported me, they have been amazing… I told myself at the start that I'm only going to have one moment to do this in front of a crowd in London and I just wanted to give them a good show."

Below: Many religious conservatives fought against her participation in the Olympics but Sarah Attar became the first female track and field Olympian to represent Saudi Arabia. Despite coming last in the 800m race, Sarah made a great statement with every stride and she completed the race to a standing ovation. Sarah said, “It is such an honour to be representing my country... Hopefully, this can make a huge difference.”

Below: Andy Murray’s celebrations as he beat Roger Federer, winning the gold medal after straight-sets was unbelievably emotional. The jump for joy, the big smooch, the tearful 11 year old child running to hug Andy… It was just all too much for me... Sob!

Below: Kat Copeland’s shocked and endearing reaction when winning the gold medal in the double sculls alongside her rowing partner Sophie Hosking was golden in itself. Kat said, "I can't believe this is real, that we just won. We just won the Olympics!”

Below: Celebrity manicurist Sophy Robson and her ‘Nail Porn’ team were 'on hand' with a pop up nail salon in the Olympic Village and swimmer Rebecca Adlington won her bronze medal in the 400m freestyle race whilst proudly sporting patriotic Team GB nail art!

Below: On the same evening that Victoria Pendleton retired from competitive cycling, a new British cycling star was born; Laura Trott. Despite being a wee 5ft 4ins (and born with a collapsed lung) Laura won TWO gold medals (and Jason Kenny.)

Below: Nicola Adams made history by becoming the first ever woman to win an Olympic boxing gold. The ever-beaming, Yorkshire lass said the win had “made my day” and went to celebrate at Nandos, “a chicken in pitta, medium with chips and perinaise.”

Below: The Real McHoy! Sir Chris Hoy won his 6th Olympic Gold medal making him the most successful British Olympian ever. After winning the keirin event at the velodrome (which like his mother, most of us found almost too unbearable to watch!) the emotional 36 year old said, “‘I’m in shock. You try to compose yourself but it’s surreal.”

Below: 23 year old David Rudisha had been referred to by the press as ‘the greatest runner you’ve never heard of,’ but when the softly spoken Masai tribesman from Kenya went on to SMASH the 800km world record, the whole world knew his name. It was such a fast race that the man who finished last (Team GB’s Andrew Osagie) ran a time that would have won him a gold in the last three Olympics. London Games chief Sebastian Coe, himself a former 800m world record holder said, "Instead of just doing enough to win the race, he wanted to do something extraordinary... Rudisha's run will go down in history as one of the greatest Olympic victories." I was raised in Kenya and feel very proud.

Below: Adorable! Royal composure out the window, Team GB Ambassadors Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge (Wills’n’Kate) could not resist a celebratory hug after seeing the British men’s pursuit team win gold at the velodrome. Love them.

Below: Bo-Jo On A Wire! Oh Boris… When you got stuck on that zip wire and left marooned, dangling in mid-air over Victoria Park holding your two Union Jacks, I could not have loved you more! Always keen to see the positive, Boris remarked, “after I got stuck on that thing we did have a big increase in the number of visitors.”
Can someone PLEEEASE make me a little Boris mobile for my car’s rear view mirror?!

Below: The Spice Girls Spiced Up Our Lives once more at the closing ceremony, entering the stadium on top of black cabs, each lit up to represent their differing Spicy personas. ‘Wannabe’ was belted out, followed by ‘Spice Up Your Life’ which saw Bo-Jo rocking out, thumbs up and hips a'swaying next to a clapping Dave and Sam-Cam.
He can do NO wrong.

Below: We saw giant billboards parade around the stadium with stunning images (photographed by Nick Knight) of Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Georgia-May Jagger, Jourdan Dunn, Lily Cole, Lily Donaldson, Stella Tennant, Karen Elson and David Gandy eventually torn down to reveal the stunning supermodels themselves. The British beauties all stormed down the fire-lit runway wearing golden creations by some of Britain’s top designers to the sound of David Bowie’s ‘Fashion.’ Incredible.

Phew... What were YOUR favourite moments?!

Mila Kunis Returns As Miss Dior

thelondonchatter — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 11:31:00 +0000

Mila Kunis has returned for her second year as Miss Dior for the French fashion house’s Autumn/Winter’12 handbag campaign. The beautiful black and white photographs, with their 1960’s film noir feel, were taken by Mario Sorrenti and styled by Carine Roitfeld.

Looking seductive and sophisticated in the campaign, whilst being hounded by paparazzi, Mila recently said that Christian Dior designs are "very classic, very consistent, really elegant, and really beautiful," as these photographs certainly go to show – those handbags are all gorgeous! I’m running off to find a bow for my hair, c’est tres chic!

The Mulberry Bryn

thelondonchatter — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 14:24:12 +0000

'Four colours, three locks, two sizes, one new style...'

When Mulberry adds a gorgeous new member into its much coveted family, you can count on Alexa Chung (right) and Fearne Cotton (below) to be the first Mulbabes strutting it around town and making us all beyond jealous.

Celebrities, including Keira Knightley, have gone mad for the latest Mulberry ‘it’ handbag, Bryn, and I can toootally understand why. With its no-nonsense appearance (the bag was inspired by the Mulberry Brynmore satchel deigned for men) the Bryn is available in four colours and in two sizes... I am LOVING the small 'Flame' red Bryn.

On the Wish List. Available here from £550.00

I Should Coco

thelondonchatter — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 13:32:02 +0000

David Beckham Lights Up The White Cliffs Of Dover

thelondonchatter — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 11:16:00 +0000

How much better is this than a ‘WELCOME’ sign?!

Last night these three images of David Beckham from his H&M bodywear campaign were emblazoned upon the White Cliffs of Dover, welcoming the hoards of tourists flying into Great Britain to watch the Olympics. An H&M spokesperson said, "we are always looking for new ways to surprise our customers and saw this as a unique and fun opportunity.”

Alas, the stunt was a one-off treat…. A decision I feel the UK Tourist Board may wish to reconsider.

David Beckham for H&M available here.

Kate Moss: The New Face of Rag & Bone

thelondonchatter — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 15:55:32 +0000

This autumn sees the American label Rag & Bone returning to its British roots...

After opening it’s first European flagship store on London’s Sloane Street last week the brand has revealed they also plan to show their A/W’12 collection at London Fashion Week and are using British supermodel Kate Moss as the face of its first ever print campaign. The British Rag & Bone designer David Neville, who moved to New York with fellow designer Marcus Wainwright to focus on the label, commented, “Although we are essentially a New York brand, our English roots have always influenced our aesthetic, and casting Kate was another nod to our heritage.”

Photographer Craig McDean shot the campaign on a derelict North London street using minimal make-up, natural light and a hand-held camera. The pictures scream COOL.

Stella McCartney's New 'Stella' Lingerie Collection

thelondonchatter — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 10:15:00 +0000

Next month Stella McCartney launches 'Stella' - a more affordable, everyday lingerie. Aiming to be both practical and pretty, the underwear is said to offer a ‘nearly nude wearing experience’ available in five key bra shapes: Moulded Underwire, Balconnet, Plunge, Strapless and Supernatural.

The fabrics used in the new mid-range line will consist of recycled materials; french lace, eco-friendly fabrics and printed silks, with the bra straps made from recycled metal.

“Well-made lingerie is key,” says Stella McCartney, “feeling constricted by one’s underwear just isn’t my thing... It has to fit, function and do its job first and foremost.”

Available in August from Matches, Selfridges and Harrods.

HAWT - Victoria Beckham in Comme des Garcons

thelondonchatter — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 23:08:08 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

Victoria Beckham arrived in London last week wearing this ridiculously awesome trench-cape dress by Junya Watanabe for Comme Des Garcons. Victoria completed her outfit perfectly by wearing some black Giuseppe Zanotti Suede Hidden-Platform Booties, a rose-gold Rolex and her own Victoria Beckham black Granny Cat sunglasses. SO chic and SO bizzarely similar to how I look when I disembark from an eleven hour plane journey...

Julian Ovenden: Live at the Hippodrome

thelondonchatter — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 09:20:00 +0000

Last night I went to London’s Hippodrome to watch chiseled stage and screen actor Julian Ovenden showcase music from his debut album, ‘If You Stay.’ Julian sang an eclectic mix of romantic and intimate classics, with fantastic range and depth, my favourites being ‘The Windmills Of Your Mind’ and 'Up, Up and Away.' Between songs, Julian entertained his audience with sweet stories about his family… In fact, this hour-long performance could be described an hour-long serenade to his opera singer wife, Kate Royal. Lucky Lady.

Known by many for his acting role in the long-running series Foyle’s War, Julian Ovenden has always sung and played piano (winning musical scholarships to both Eton and Oxford) and it was only a matter of time before his two talents merged together on stage. This Autumn Julian will star in the much-anticipated musical theatre version of the 2004’s Oscar-nominated film, ‘Finding Neverland.’ Produced by the Oscar-winning Harvey Weinstein and directed and choreographed by Rob Ashford, Julian will play the Peter Pan author James M. Barrie. With a five week Leicester run opening in September, there are high hopes for a West-End transfer early next year. Fingers all crossed.

Fact: Julian Ovenden played the role of the Diet Coke Man and his father is the Queen’s chaplain. Yes. That officially makes Julian a real life sweet talking son of a preacher man (or in this case, a sweet singing son of a Queen’s chaplain) who can also make an entire nation of women collectively swoon during their morning work breaks.

Julian Ovenden: Live At the Hippodrome tickets available here and to buy 'If You Stay' click here.

www.julianovenden.com

Lana Del Rey - New Face of H&M

thelondonchatter — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 11:27:00 +0000

The rumours were true, Lana Del Rey IS the new face of H&M.

The H&M Autumn/Winter’12 campaign, photographed by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, will feature the sultry songstress in her signature retro style, with her trademark black eyeliner and pale pout, wearing key pieces from the collection.

Donald Schneider, H&M's Creative Director revealed, "the mood is very LA noir… It’s inspired by our fall collection." An advert has also been filmed where Lana Del Rey sings
‘Blue Velvet,’ a 1950’s Bobby Vinton classic.

Also confirmed this week by H&M is its latest designer collaboration for autumn/winter 2012: French fashion house Maison Martin Margiela.
The statement released promised to “bring together the contrasting universes of the two houses in ways that will surprise all.”

Available from November 15th 2012.

Emma Stone - In Vogue

thelondonchatter — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 14:14:01 +0000

Forget ripped denim and peplums, Emma Stone is officially the new Black.

In the space of a mere month, the 23 year old Spider-Man actress has covered THREE editions of Vogue and quite frankly, I could do with a few more.

Emma Stone covered July’s US Vogue, and August’s Teen Vogue and British Vogue (the latter, naturally, being my favourite where Emma wears a veritable feast of Autumn/Winter’12 trends and is interviewed by the gorgeous Alexa Chung.)

Emma Stone has long been my ‘one to watch’ on the red carpet and I loved seeing her stunning, highly anticipated, premiere choices whilst promoting the new Spider-Man film, which she stars in alongside her real-life British-beau, Andrew Garfield.

Above: Wow. Emma Stone wearing Chanel and spikey Louboutin's at the LA premiere.

Above: Day Time Demure

L-R: Dolce & Gabanna in Spain, Andrew Gn in Berlin, Emilio Pucci in Moscow.

Above: Gothic Nights
L-R: An Ellie Saab jumpsuit in London, Gucci in Paris, Bottega Veneta in Rome.

Gorgeous, talented and dating Spider-Man. This girl rocks.

The Amazing Spider-Man is at cinemas now.

Trend: Olive Green

thelondonchatter — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 13:06:43 +0000

If there is one person’s wardrobe I covet, it would be Olivia Palermo's. The ex-Hills star and renowned fashionista always looks enviably glossy, elegantly accessorized and perfectly put together.

Recently Olivia has been wearing a lot of olive green – recycling her olive green jeans and olive green parka in numerous ways. Last week she was seen (left) in New York looking like an olive green dream, from top to bottom.

Olive green combines really well with most colours, but Olivia prefers to wear her jeans/parka with white or black, accessorized with ballet flats or heels (usually leopard print - girl after my own heart!) and whopper sunglasses.

I think olive green is the perfect multi-seasonal neutral and a great way to ease your way into the London 'sunshine' (... a gal can dream!)

Luckily for us, Olivia's Olive Green look is really accessible on our highstreets:

I would recommend Topshop for their Moto Leigh Jeans (RRP. £38.00) and their Army Shirt Jacket (RRP. £48.00) or the skinny jeans by Victoria Beckham for a super flattering fit.

The Opulence of 'Anna Karenina'

thelondonchatter — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 00:39:00 +0000

And just when I thought 'The Great Gatsby' was the period drama fashion dream of the year (see the trailer and pictures here) I saw this trailer for Joe Wright’s 'Anna Kerenina.' Wow.
Keira Knightley plays Anna, a striking aristocrat in late-19th-century high society Russia, wearing the most elegant and opulent of costumes - think rich velvets in jeweled tones, delicate lace, feathered headpieces, beautiful pearls...

Inspired by this upcoming movie’s beautiful costumes, Banana Republic is launching an Anna Karenina style capsule collection with the film’s twice-Academy Award-nominated costume designer, Jacqueline Durran. Banana Republic’s creative director Simon Kneen promises “hats and coats with faux fur and piles of costume jewellery.”

Anna Karenina is released in the UK in September - Can't wait!

Debit Buy: ASOS Earrings

thelondonchatter — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 11:35:00 +0000

I do not have pierced ears (which has probably saved me a small fortune over the years given my magpie tendancies!) but if I did I would almost certainly be adorning my earlobes with these sparkly bug pendant earrings (left) and these colourful, Prada inspired floral gemstone beauties (below) from ASOS. I would dress them down with jeans and a t'shirt. These really are too adorable.

Left: ASOS Premium Darling Bug Drop Earrings

RRP. £20.00

Below Left: ASOS Flower & Jewel Drop Earrings

RRP. £15.00

Below Right: ASOS Flower & Jewel Drop Earrings

RRP. £15.00

Jack Savoretti, 'Before The Storm' UK Tour

thelondonchatter — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 10:29:00 +0000

“London-born Jack Savoretti is the type of guy you can imagine flinging his guitar on his shoulder and hitching a ride to explore pastures new: a free spirit, with a sensitive soul worn on his sleeve." Jameela Oberman.

With the release of his album, ‘Before The Storm,’ husky singer/songwriter Jack Savoretti has been touring the country, showcasing his new material with his band, The Dirty Romantics. This album’s music is more confident and diverse – darker almost – than his previous releases, although Jack’s romantic, poetic lyrics are still ever present, ever wooing his audience.

I personally love the Gypsy inspired song ‘Knock Knock’ and the beautiful, emotional duet Jack sings with the actress Sienna Miller, ‘Hate & Love.’

Throughout Jack’s UK tour he has been holding an amazing competition in support of unsigned, upcoming musicians, to find the best cover of his new single ‘Take Me Home.’ Jack chose his favourite YouTube submitted entry and invited the winner to open his show and perform alongside him at his Bush Hall gig in London last week, which I attended.

Right: Backstage with Jack Savoretti after his gig.

Below: I filmed the nervous and talented winner, Rebecca Clements, on stage performing 'Take Me Home' with Jack.

Below: Jack Savoretti and The Dirty Romantics perform ‘Black Rain’ at the Bush Hall.

Also, see Jack joined onstage at the Bush Hall here by enthusiastic superfan Adam, after he pleaded from the crowd for Jack to sing his favourite song ‘One Man Band.’

See Jack Savoretti playing live with The Dirty Romantics at The Hard Rock Calling Festival in London (July 14th) and at The Wilderness Festival in Oxfordshire (August 11th)

www.jacksavoretti.com

Nora Ephron RIP

thelondonchatter — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 09:54:00 +0000

How would you like to be remembered?  "As the greatest nightclub singer ever..."

This week Nora Ephron, the Hollywood screenwriter and director of some of the most well loved Rom Com's ever made, lost her battle with leukemia at the age of 71.

I've watched ‘When Harry Met Sally’ around 1000 times (it’s my father’s favourite film!) and I can easily find myself, on a rainy afternoon, immersed in the romance and humour of her other films (which include, ‘Sleepless In Seattle,’ ‘You’ve Got Mail’ and ‘Bewitched.’) Among those to pay tribute to the writer, Billy Crystal said, "being her Harry to Meg's Sally will always have a special place in my heart, I was very lucky to get to say her words."

Meryl Streep, who was nominated for a Best Actress Oscar for her role as Julia Child in Ephron's 'Julie & Julia' was also one of the writer’s dearest friends. Speaking to the New York Times, Streep remembered her friend's effervescent outlook on life, "Nora just looked at every situation and cocked her head and thought, 'Hmmmm, how can I make this more fun?'"

Below: From 'When Harry Met Sally,' the most perfectly romantic scene of all time?

In her 2010 book, ‘I Remember Nothing,’ Nora wrote a list of the things she would and wouldn’t miss... Simple and humourous, this now makes an extremely touching read...

What I Won't Miss

Dry skin

Bad dinners like the one we went to last night
E-mail
Technology in general
My closet
Washing my hair
Bras
Funerals
Illness everywhere
Polls that show that 32 percent of the American people believe in creationism
Polls
Fox TV
The collapse of the dollar
Bar mitzvahs
Mammograms
Dead flowers
The sound of the vacuum cleaner
Bills
E-mail. I know I already said it, but I want to emphasize it.
Small print
Panels on Women in Film
Taking off makeup every night

What I Will Miss

My kids

Nick
Spring
Fall
Waffles
The concept of waffles
Bacon
A walk in the park
The idea of a walk in the park
The park
Shakespeare in the Park
The bed
Reading in bed
Fireworks
Laughs
The view out the window
Twinkle lights
Butter
Dinner at home just the two of us
Dinner with friends
Dinner with friends in cities where none of us lives
Paris
Next year in Istanbul
Pride and Prejudice
The Christmas tree
Thanksgiving dinner
One for the table
The dogwood
Taking a bath
Coming over the bridge to Manhattan
Pie

Thank you for your stories Nora.

Debit Buy: Carvela Kute Sandals

thelondonchatter — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 21:04:00 +0000

I have seen these oh-so-cute Carvela shoes being worn by one of my favourite fashion bloggers, the very romantic Parisian Alix Bancourt (of ‘The Cherry Blossom Girl’) and think they are the perfect summer footwear. Worn with jeans/a dress, in the city/on the beach, they are pretty versatile regardless of which colour you choose. As Alix shows, pink nailpolish looks great with them.

Above: Pink Kute by Carvela RRP. £55.00, Gold Kute by Carvela RRP. £55.00,
Light Blue by Carvela (now in the sale) ~~£55.00~~ £39.00

Available at Kurt Geiger

Alexa Chung - The New Face of Maje A'W'12

thelondonchatter — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 17:16:00 +0000

Alexa Chung, my favourite fashionista, has been announced as the face of chic French fashion label Maje’s A/W’12 campaign. Maje is well known for it’s romantic, bohemian collections and since opening in 2004 their collections have been worn by all the coolest of French belles, including Vanessa Paradis and Marion Cotillard. With Maje stores popping up all around London, this label has become a fashion favourite here also.

Above: Photographer Gien Luchford took these beautiful, dreamy black and white images of Alexa Chung at Paris' Porte des Lilas metro station. The campaign pictures show an incredible likeness to the 1960’s British-born beauty, Jane Birkin.

Left: A young Jane Birkin and a recent photograph of Alexa coincidentally (?) wearing a Bella Freud, 'Je t'aime Jane' jumper.

Maje released a statement last week saying, "between dream and reality, evoking a cinema-like aesthetic, Alexa embodies a modern heroine with style and charm. Elegant yet edgy, her attitude reflects a personality that is both glamorous and rock’n’roll."  

Alexa also revealed, "I am thrilled to be the face of Maje for their autumn/winter 2012-13 campaign, it's a brand I love and wear, so to be asked was a huge compliment."

I wonder if there will be an Alexa/Maje collection revealed next? Fingers X.

Above: Beautiful cult-actress, singer, fashion muse and activist Jane Birkin in the 1960's
(also pictured, Jane with her great love, Serge Gainsbourg.)

Below: Now 65 years old, Jane Birkin remains as stylish as ever – and still with her namesake Hermès Birkin bag faithfully by her side!

My Marie Claire Trend Shoot: Cropped Tops

thelondonchatter — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 13:19:00 +0000

Each month Marie Claire magazine chooses a trend for one girl to model in six different ways.

I was approached by suuuper glamorous Tanya Semikoz, Marie Claire’s Executive Fashion Editor, a couple of months ago to model an upcoming seasonal trend… She didn’t mention however, that the upcoming seasonal trend was to be cropped tops... EEK! Every girl's worst nightmare, surely?!

Stomach crunching my way to the The Shop Studio, an awesome North London photographic studio owned by photographer Sam Robinson, I was more than a little nervous about what outfits (or lack of them!) awaited me. All my fears were put aside after Holly Welch, Marie Claire’s Junior Fashion Editor, waved her brilliant styling wand at me and I was suitably dolled up by the makeup artist extraodinaire, Pamela Cochrane.

Above and Below: Behind the scenes of the shoot with make up artist Pamela Cochrane and photographers Sam Robinson and Olly Burn.

These photographs show how cropped tops can be incorporated into your wardrobe easily and more demurely than I initially assumed. I'm now rather inspired to wear a high waisted skirt with a cropped top this summer, showing only a small amount of my upper midriff. All the shoes I wore were great and I ran straight off to buy the neon nude heels from Aldo (available here in the sale RRP. ~~£75.00~~ £34.99) and the green/blue heels from Zara (available here in pink/red RRP. £29.00) which I also bought in black. Oops.

Thank you to Sam Robinson, Olly Burn, Holly Welch, Pamela Cochrane and everyone at The Shop Studio for making this a really fun day!

And a big Thank You to Tanya Semikoz.

Left: The July'12 edition of Marie Claire is available at now.

Mulberry's A/W'12 Campaign

thelondonchatter — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 13:48:00 +0000

Where the Wild Things REALLY are...

Despite not really having had a summer yet, I am already loving the sneak preview of Mulberry’s A/W’12 ad campaign. The fairytale themed shoot shows model Lindsey Wixson in a forest amongst a whole host of furry giant Wild Things and an enviable wardrobe of gorgeous Mulberry. Photographed by Tim Walker, the adverts show the brand’s new Del Rey, Maisie and Alexa bags. Fantastical!

www.mulberry.com

HAWT - Caroline Sieber in Chanel

thelondonchatter — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 10:39:00 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

Above: Abiding by all this year’s strict dress code instructions, super stylist Caroline Sieber (whose personal style I adore - see here) looked impossibly chic on the first day of Royal Ascot. Wearing a textured Chanel dress (she is one of their Ambassadors) with Louis Vuitton shoes and a feathered headpiece, Caroline Sieber looked the perfect spectator at the 300 year old racing event. My favourite Ascot outfit by a furlong…

Below: At the entrance to Royal Ascot this year there are ‘Dress Code Assistants’ carefully surveying hemline lengths, dress straps and headwear whilst armed with emergency pashminas/poshminas to cover up the most obvious of fashion offences. As a real fascinator-hater (fascinhater!) I am thrilled that ladies are now only permitted entrance if wearing a hat or wide-brimmed headpiece: The Hat Is Back. I would recommend Jane Taylor Millinery or Victoria Grant for some truly exceptional and unique headcandy.

Dakota Fanning in Topshop

thelondonchatter — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 23:17:00 +0000

Last week the gorgeous 18 year old 'Twilight' actress Dakota Fanning wore this adorable Topshop swan print outfit around and about in Los Angeles.

The skirt and bralet are now in the sale so hurry hurry!

Topshop Co-ord Swan Print Bralet and Skirt
RRP. ~~£60.00~~ £49.00

Kate Moss 'Checking Out' of The Ritz in Paris (Vogue US)

thelondonchatter — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 09:17:39 +0000

I can’t believe I have only just seen this stunning US Vogue editorial, ‘Checking Out,’ published last April. Photographed by Tim Walker and styled by the magazine's creative director Grace Coddington, Kate Moss wears a dramatic selection of Haute Couture SS’12 designs (Valentino, Dior, McQueen, Givenchy to name but a few!) The supreme decadence of Marie Antoinette is channelled in the opulent surroundings of The Ritz Paris.

I have a desperate urge to hop on the Eurostar right now.
Or have a pink bubble bath at the very least.

I Believe...

thelondonchatter — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 17:46:27 +0000

Musical Moment: Fun ('We Are Young')

thelondonchatter — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 17:30:06 +0000

New York-based indie rock group Fun, comprising of Nate Ruess, Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff, have very loudly and very proudly brought rock music back.

Their awesome single 'We Are Young' featuring Janelle Monáe topped the global music charts soon after being sung on on Glee (by Rachel and Finn) and being featured during the Super Bowl...

This song makes me wanna have FUN!

"Tonight, we are young, so let's set the world on fire, we can burn brighter than the sun..."

www.ournameisfun.com

Diane Kruger at Cannes 2012

thelondonchatter — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 16:37:00 +0000

If there was one celebrity who rocked the red carpet at Cannes 2012, it was Diane Kruger. I am a big style fan of this actress and it is hardly surprising that not one on the French Rivera came close to outshining her or her incredible wardrobe of gorgeous gowns.

Above: (L-R) Diane in edgy Balmain, looking utterly breathtaking in Giambattista Valli Couture and in a short Versus dress with sky-high Jimmy Choo stilettos.

What really struck me about Diane Kruger's faultess Cannes style however, was the continuous use of her favourite and prettiest accessory - her boyfriend Joshua Jackson. Joshua manages to match every one of Diane's outfits picture perfectly.
No sparkly designer clutch could possibly compete.

Above: Quirky and cute in Chanel

Above: Summery in Calvin Klein

Above: Divine in Nina Ricci

Above: Prabal Gurung (Look at those shoes!)

Above: Dazzling in Vivienne Westwood

Above: Extremely elegant in Jason Wu.
Black and navy happens to be my favourite colour combination.

Above: (L) Her last and most show stopping dress by Christian Dior.
(R) Diane later changed into this more dinner friendly Jenny Packham ensemble.

Below: Other outfits I really liked were those of Audrey Tautou and Kristen Dunst...

Whilst promoting her latest film 'Thérèse Desqueyroux,' Audrey Tautou personified French chic in this frilly white shirt teamed with casual navy trousers, and later looked particularly Audrey Hepburn-esq in this gorgeous gold Prada dress. J'adore.

Kristen Dunst looked hot (pink) in this gorgeous fuchsia Christian Dior Pre-Fall 2012 gown with Louis Vuitton jewellery whilst promoting her new film 'On The Road,' having looked very demure and angelic earlier that day in a white, retro Dolce & Gabbana dress accessorised sweetly with a floral headband.

Beauty

thelondonchatter — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 00:02:00 +0000

"Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin.
That, or a kick-ass red lipstick...."

The Beyoootiful Gwyneth Paltrow

Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee Celebrations

thelondonchatter — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 23:16:00 +0000

Now that our neighbours have been met, our bunting has come down and my tiara has been taken off (admittedly, under duress...) we have time to reflect on how utterly AMAZING the Diamond Jubilee celebrations were. As thousands of people, up and down the country, celebrated the Queen's 60 years on the throne, I felt so privileged and excited to have been in London to witness this truly remarkable anniversary and to enjoy the excited patriotic revellery I was met with all over town.

Britain really does know how to throw one helluva party!

Below are some of my favourite Diamond Jubilee moments...

Above: Sunday's Diamond Jubilee River Pageant, which saw the Queen travelling on the Royal barge, the Spirit of Chartwell, in a 1000 boat flotilla on the River Thames.

Above: God Save McQueen!
(L) Kate's Sunday McQueen worn with a James Lock & Co hat by Sylvia Fletcher
(R) Kate's Monday McQueen worn with Jane Taylor Millinery's Beaded Cocktail Hat
Both accessorised with her faithful L.K.Bennett Sledge heels available here.

Above: War Horse's Joey saluting the Queen from the National Theatre's Olivier flytower.
I loved how excited she was to see this. To buy tickets to see War Horse click here.

Above: Pocket Rocket Kylie Minogue in her Pearly Queen outfit on Monday at the Jubilee Concert held at Buckingham Palace. The musical extravaganza was organised by Take That's Gary Barlow and we saw, amongst others, Sir Paul McCartney, Dame Shirley Bassey, Sir Elton John and Sir Tom Jones all perform for the Queen.

Above: Prince Charles having just thanked the Queen (whom he brilliantly called "Mummy" to great applause) for her services to Great Britain and "for inspiring us with your selfless duty and service and for making us proud to be British."

Above: Monday night's incredible Jubilee Concert fireworks which were followed by the Queen lighting the National Beacon to honour her 60 year reign.

Above and Below: Tuesday's pomp and pageantry.
After a National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral and a lunch reception at Mansion House, the Royal Family travelled towards Buckingham Palace.

Below: Whilst the Royal Family waved to the enormous crowds all dressed in red, white and blue, from the balcony of Buckingham Palace we saw an RAF flypast of nine Red Arrows and rifle salutes marking the end of the celebrations.

Below: Addressing the country the Queen said, "the events that I have attended to mark my Diamond Jubilee have been a humbling experience... I hope that memories of all this year’s happy events will brighten our lives for many years to come."

Below: Lastly... HOW completely wonderful is this?!

Emma Bridgewater Celebrating The Jubilee

thelondonchatter — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:49:20 +0000

Looking for a memento of this weekend’s Jubilee celebrations? Emma Bridgewater is offering a 15% discount off her gorgeous and decorative Jubilee range. Co-owners, Matthew Rice and Emma Bridgewater will be selling an estimated 200,000 Diamond Jubilee items and it is easy to see why. All handcrafted in Britain, colourful and jolly, these every day items can be treasured for years to come.

Matthew Rice said: “Emma and I are both fiercely patriotic and have created commemorative ware for every Royal occasion for the past 25 years. However, we have never seen demand such as that which we’re experiencing for our Jubilee range."

Right: The Marylebone High Street shop window.
Below: My favourite pieces from the range...

Above Clockwise: Tea Caddy £10.00, Egg Cup £9.95, Teatowel £10.00, 1/2 Pint Mug £24.95, Bisuit Tin £13.00, Diamond Jubilee Crown Jar £100.00

Below: Some other Jubilee goodies which have caught my eye this week…

This limited-edition Marmite, Ma’amite, is available at all Sainsbury's supermarkets across the country.

Love it or hate it? Love it.

World Exclusive Jeroboam 3 litre bottle of Pimms
RRP. £150 at Selfridges.

Pimms o'clock. Bound to get any party started! Only 150 of these commemorative three litre Pimm's bottles have been made.

Jubilee Corgi Ankle Socks
RRP. £3.50 at Topshop.

Adorable! I bought these. Couldn't resist.

Above: Prêt-à-Portea – The Royal Collection. A Royal Treat! Available until June 9th, biscuits, fancies and choux buns have been transformed to resemble the most memorable hats worn by the Royal Family - including Princess Beatrice's, now infamous, Philip Tracey facinator (a delicious praline profiterole!)

£36.50 pp or £46.50 including a glass of Laurent Perrier Champagne at The Berkeley.

Have a WONDERFUL Jubileeeeee....

Tephi and Jane Taylor Millinery

thelondonchatter — Thu, 31 May 2012 12:54:00 +0000

On Tuesday I was invited to an evening of cocktails and canapés for the friends and family of Tephi designer Chessie Grievson and milliner Jane Taylor. Tephi’s romantic and ethereal dresses were perfectly complimented by Jane Taylor Millinery's delicate array of bespoke, bridal and ready to wear hats and headpieces. This was a one-stop-shop for all upcoming summer events (Ascot, Henley...) weddings and parties.

Above (L-R): Annabel Shepherd, Chessie Grievson and Jane Taylor

Being a complete magpie, I was immediately drawn to Jane Taylor Millinery’s sparkly and theatrical Crystal Collection – all extremely decadent and Great Gatsby! I also pounced upon the gorgeous and much anticipated Summer Dress - the result of a collaboration between Tephi and London's hottest conservationsist, Sophia Rogge. A percentage from each of these pretty silk dresses, with their unique sand dollar print, will go to Corals for Conservation and can be purchased here. This is THE dress of the summer.

For all enquiries please contact Annabelle at Greene and Sheppard.

David Beckham for Elle UK

thelondonchatter — Wed, 30 May 2012 23:49:39 +0000

Never has there been a more hotly anticipated edition of Elle Magazine in the history of… well, Elle Magazine. To celebrate the start of the Olympic Games at the end of July, David Beckham graces the cover of Elle UK - the magazine’s first ever solo male coverstar.

Elle editor-in-chief Lorraine Candy said, "This is a first for us on the newsstand and I believe he is loved by men and women alike… It will be a collector's issue." Enjoy. Sigh.

The July 2012 edition of Elle UK is available from today and the behind scenes footage from the shoot can be seen here.

My London Style - Presenter Izzy Lawrence

thelondonchatter — Mon, 28 May 2012 13:12:00 +0000

Presenter, DJ and one of Britain’s most prestigious bloggers, Izzy Lawrence is set to sky rocket this year. If you haven’t already heard of this Bath born, Oxford educated, London based STUNNER yet, you soon will. Believe me.

When Izzy Lawrence's personal blog came to the attention of the Grammy’s social media team in 2011, she was asked to be the official Fashion & Lifestyle Blogger for their awards. 30 million page views and several red carpet frocks later, Izzy was soon regularly blogging for LA radio station KCRW, presenting for Spotify and working as the official BRIT Awards blogger. Her engaging presenting style and husky voice led Jonathan Ross to approach her to co-host his French Film Channel, Cinemoi, at the Cannes and BFI Film Festivals, whilst her video blogs were picked up by Hello, Grazia Daily and Nylon Magazine, leading to her becoming an Official Youtube partner. And no, we’re so not done yet...

Izzy also runs her own monthly charity music night at Camden’s Hawley Arms Apocalystick Acoustic (which Laura Marling, Squeeze, Jack Savoretti and the late, great Amy Winehouse have all played at). She combines this with regular DJ residencies at several London hotspots whilst playing sets at London Fashion Week, in Val d’Isere during the winters and in Ibiza and popular festivals throughout the summers. All of this in heels.

Amazingly, Izzy found the time to share with The London Chatter some of her stylish tips and advice... This girl doesn’t sleep.

My Style In 3 Little Words – Rock'n'Roll.

This Season Every Gal Needs – Apple green nail varnish - or maybe that is just me?! I saw a video with Santi White from Santigold wearing it and have been rocking it ever since.

My British Fashion Icon – Isabella Blow. Certain people have the charisma to pull off those sorts of accessories and she had bags of it. Also, Isabella had the ability to spot and nurture talented young designers including Alexander McQueen and Philip Treacy.

My Favourite Highstreet Store – All Saints - I love their maxi dresses and leather jackets.

My Favourite Boutique – Cochinechine, or Wolf and Badger on Dover Street which showcases young designers. The concept of young designers renting space and customers buying from new talent is a clever entrepreneurial model. There is a pop up Wolf and Badger in Selfridges now as well.

My Favourite British Designer – Alice Temperley is definitely up there. I wore Temperley London for the Cannes red carpet last year and I'm pretty sure that Brad Pitt winked at me (or maybe that was in my mind...)

At Gunpoint; Bags OR Shoes – Shoes please!

My First Fashionista Memory – Trying on my grandmother's dresses and dancing around in her shoes - excellent training for the future!

My Saturday Night Outfit – If I am DJing then definitely a dress (my favourites are from Paul & Joe and Liz Black) worn with a leather jacket to dress it down.

My Sunday Brunch Outfit – My bright yellow Converse trainers with jeans and a T-shirt. I need to be comfy for brunch.

OMG I Can’t Believe I Wore – Dungarees. They should be banned. Banned.

Forget My Last Meal, My Last Outfit Would Be – An amazing Alexander McQueen dress. Or, the gorgeous Tom Ford dress and necklace that I tried on during a recent trip to LA. It is rare that I dance in a changing room out of excitement.

My Style Tip – I love the quote from Coco Chanel, "In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different." I take from this that you should follow your instincts - they are unique and the trends don't matter.

The next Apocalypstick will on June 8th at The Hawley Arms pub in Camden with music from Nimmo & The Gauntlettes, Tallulah Rendal and from Sissi.

www.izzyfied.com
www.izzylawrence.com

To the Moon and Back

thelondonchatter — Fri, 25 May 2012 15:56:00 +0000

Honestly Healthy Book Launch

thelondonchatter — Thu, 24 May 2012 18:20:21 +0000

Yesterday evening I sipped coconut water mojitos in the sunshine at the launch of Honestly Healthy duo Natasha Corrett and Vicki Edgson's new cook book 'Honestly Healthy: Eat with your body in mind, the alkaline way.' The book gives you all the information you could need on how to live a healthy, balanced, vegetarian and alkaline life with over one hundred recipes to try out. It can be purchased on Amazon.

Clockwise L-R: Savannah Miller, baby Bali and author Natasha Corrett, The Honestly Healthy cook book, music, Sienna Miller and Natasha Corrett, Kelly Eastwood with presenters Izzy Lawrence and Zoe Hardman, Zafar Rushdie and Shirley Leigh-Wood Oakes.

HAWT: Cheryl Cole in Victoria Beckham

thelondonchatter — Wed, 23 May 2012 11:38:00 +0000

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

Last night Cheryl Cole attended the film premiere of ‘What To Expect When You’re Expecting,’ at the London BFI IMAX cinema, wearing a floor length Victoria Beckham SS’12 dress.

With rose gold jewellery by Garrard and an elegant satin Sergio Rossi clutch, Cheryl effortlessly channelled two of this season’s "major" (to quote VB!) trends – sports-luxe and pretty, feminine pleats.

The singer looked stunning in the two-tone, drop waisted dress – the perfect red carpet outfit to celebrate her first movie cameo and this year’s first day of sunshine in the capital.

Below: Cheryl Cole with the film's star, Cameron Diaz.

The trailer for 'What To Expect When You're Expecting' can be seen Here.

Trend: Studs

thelondonchatter — Tue, 22 May 2012 10:03:00 +0000

"Tell me about it, Stud..." (Sandy, Grease.)

The Highstreet is currently filled with studs… albeit of the appliqué variety. Inspired by the Versace SS’12 runway collection (above) where every model was adorned with more than just a sprinkling of golden studs lining their slinky silhouettes, the trend for an edgier, more rebellious, look is now easily available without the hefty Donatella price tag.

I would recommend heading straight to Zara to release your inner fierce… With subtle studded embellishment on many (if not most) of their latest items, this is easily made an accessible and current look for everyone to ROCK. Here are my Zara favourties:

Left: Shirt with Studded Collar
RRP. £39.99

I would wear this shirt with all the buttons done up, with jeans and a navy jumper - Slightly preppy but with an edge.

Left: Studded Silk Shirt
£59.99

This pretty, floral silk shirt has studded shoulders - I love this contrast and it would look great tucked into denim shorts this Summer. On the wish list.

Left: Studded Denim Pop Fabric Studio Shorts
RRP. £39.99

Perfect for the Summer and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

Left: Studded Ankle Strap Sandles
RRP. £29.99

For those a little more cautious of this trend - literally, dip your toe in and ease your way up!

Left: Blouse with Gold Stud Buttons
RRP. £22.99

Also available in pink, green and orange - I think this is perfect to throw over your bikini on holiday - Buy oversized and tuck the front into shorts.

Marie Curie Cancer Care Fundraiser

thelondonchatter — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:07:26 +0000

On Tuesday night I attended Heather Kerzner's star-studded fundraiser for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Marie Curie Cancer Care is best known for its network of 2,700 nurses, who provide vital and free end of life care to patients with terminal illness in their own homes, or in one of its nine hospices.

The beautiful ballroom at Claridges, filled with celebrity florist Rob van Helden’s heavenly pink peonies and red roses, looked almost as stunning as the glamorous guests, including Kate Moss and Jamie Hince, Ronnie Wood, Yasmin Le Bon, Holly Valance and Nick Candy, Tamara Beckwith, Geri Halliwell, Sarah the Duchess of York and Princess Beatrice.

Above: Wearing a Nanette Lepore velvet dress and turquoise Chanel shoes. Below: (clockwise) David Bailey and Sarah the Duchess of York, a rocking Ronnie Wood, Holly Valance, Richard Dennen and Kelly Eastwood, a papping Kate Moss, Matthew Freud with Heather Kerzner, Kate Moss and Jamie Hince. Photographs by Christopher Jackson.

During the lavish dinner, Heather Kerzner and model Saffron Aldridge movingly expressed their own personal gratitude to the Marie Curie Cancer Care nurses. Matthew Freud followed, cheekily referring to his infamous scuffle with Hugh Grant (“it’s nice to attend one of Heather’s parties and not get punched… although the night is still relatively young!”) went on to introduce ‘When I Die: Lessons from the Death Zone’, an intimate short film (below) he co-produced about his friend Philip Gould’s final days.

An auction followed, led by the charismatic Lord Harry Dalmeny, that raised over £620,000 for the Marie Curie Cancer Care. The amazing lots included an opportunity to have your portrait taken by David Bailey, a private party at Annabels, and an absolutely stunning George Pragnell Diamond Daffodil ring. The ring, shown below, in the shape of a daffodil (the Marie Curie’s emblem) was designed by the jeweller’s grandson, Charlie Pragnell, in recognition of Marie Curie’s outstanding work. I was allowed to wear the stunning ring, with its rare and glittering orange-yellow diamond centre for around five minutes before I was reminded I had to give it back... They were a happy five minutes. ‘My’ beautiful daffodil ring was later auctioned off for £50,000. Parting is such sweet sorrow...

Kate Moss took to the stage to model a last minute donation from Ronnie Wood; a painting of Rod Stewart by the Rolling Stone himself. The piece was auctioned off for £12,000 after Lord Harry Dalmeny managed to push the bidding past £10,000 by saying that Kate Moss wouldn’t even get out of bed for so little… Reaslising he’d got his supermodel’s mixed up (“Oh, no, that’s not you – that’s the other one!”) Kate went on to confirm that she would indeed rise from bed for less than £10,000. Damn recession.

We were later entertained by the legendary Grammy award winning R&B artist Sam Moore, who was joined on stage by Ronnie Wood in a surprise set that included 'Stay With Me' and 'Mustang Sally' (which was directed at Wood’s new girlfriend… Sally!)

My place at the front of the stage allowed me the perfect view of Ronnie Wood’s studded Louboutin loafers, and in what must be the most glamorous mosh pit ever, I spent a good part of the evening dancing next to Kate Moss. Just your average Tuesday night…

After a hugely fun and successful night, Heather Kerzner commented, "I am so impressed by the work of Marie Curie Cancer Care it was natural for me to lend my support. People don't like to talk about death, but we all have to face it and I wanted to help bring money and attention to this incredible charity whose nurses, like angels, bring peace to terminally ill patients and their families during this devastating time."

Below: In the Marie Curie Photo Booth with Katy Wickremesinghe and with Charlie Pragnell (wearing the stunning George Pragnell Daffodil Diamond ring he designed.)

www.mariecurie.org.uk

Topshop and Fashion Targets Breast Cancer

thelondonchatter — Wed, 16 May 2012 14:23:00 +0000

These adorable beaded bracelets, supporting Fashion Targets Breast Cancer - are available at here at Topshop for £2.00. Wear Your Support. Buy It. Fight It.

Official UK Olympics Song Released Today: Anywhere In The World (Mark Ronson ft. Katy B)

thelondonchatter — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

The official UK Olympics song, Mark Ronson and Katy B, 'Anywhere In the World,' was released yesterday here on iTunes. Expect to be hearing this A LOT soon!

Mark Ronson travelled around the world, recording young athletes, and the individual sounds of their sport, to mix into the track, including a table tennis paddle, an arrow hitting its target, and the sound of an Olympic runner's heartbeat at 120 BPM.

Lucien Freud Exhibition

thelondonchatter — Mon, 14 May 2012 12:55:00 +0000

With tickets being likened to gold dust, I was lucky enough to recently visit The National Portrait Gallery‘s Lucien Freud exhibition. Showcasing more than 100 of Freud’s portraits, the vast range of paintings are divided into different time periods, allowing visitors to follow the progression of his style through the revered artist’s legendary 70 year career.

Having not been too familiar with Lucien Freud’s work before this exhibition, which was curated with the help of the artist himself before his death last year, I feel I have now had the best of introductions.

I was really amazed at Freud’s ability to produce almost tangible portrayals of his sitters by using an enormous amount of paint to create a magnificent 3D, structured effect. The artist’s merciless love of human flesh is also clear to see and there is, what seems to be, room after room of creamy, contorted, lifeless, and thickly applicated painted bodies. I did eventually find the enormous and iconic portraits of Leigh Bowery and Big Sue’s swirly, fleshy and mountainous naked bodies a little, for want of a better word, over-baring.

Left: Reflection (self portrait) 1985.

Below: Lucien Freud was the father of some fourteen children and my favourite portraits displayed in the exhibition were those of his pregnant girlfriend Bernadine, Pregnant Girl, 1960-61, and of his new born baby daughter Bella Freud, Baby on a Green Sofa, 1961.

With art lovers flocking to see this show, more than aware that they are unlikely to ever see another exhibition of Lucien Freud’s portraits as good as this, a new record has been set for visitor numbers at the National Portrait Gallery. The exhibition closes on May 27th and the gallery has just announced that the show will remain open until midnight from May 24th-27th to help cope with the demand. Tickets are on sale today only - here.

Above: An unlikely friendship blossomed between Lucien Frued and Kate Moss after he painted a life-sized nude of the supermodel whilst pregnant with her daughter, Lila Grace, in 2003. Kate Moss later described the artist as ‘the most interesting person’ she had ever met, while Freud moaned about how the model had aaalways been late for her sittings. This photograph was taken of the two friends in 2010 by photographer David Dawson.

It's Here...

thelondonchatter — Fri, 11 May 2012 17:18:00 +0000

Kate Moss Covers British Vogue June 2012

thelondonchatter — Thu, 10 May 2012 17:09:50 +0000

With red lips, retro curls, a white gladiator Versace dress and Kara Ross Crescent earrings, Kate Moss smolders on the cover of this month’s 'Going for Gold' British Vogue.

Only weeks ahead of this summer’s Olympic Games and Jubilee celebrations, this remarkable, and distinctly patriotic, edition of Vogue pays tribute to both British sporting legends and national treasures alike.

This is thirty-eight year old Croydon-born supermodel Kate Moss’ 32nd British Vogue cover and she was shot by photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott looking every inch an Olympic goddess and British beauty.

Snap! Does Kate Moss’ pose, clutching a thick coil of rope look familiar? A couple of years ago photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott used the exact same rope (right) in their Emporio Armani campaign, featuring yet another national treasure (and British beauty!) David Beckham.

Versace studded leather and silk dress (from £4,030) and Kara Ross Crescent earrings, (£100) are available from Harvey Nichols.

Maximalism: Anna Dello Russo

thelondonchatter — Thu, 03 May 2012 22:29:00 +0000

Fashion icon/addict Anna Dello Russo, Editor and creative consultant for Vogue Japan and frequent FROW showstopper, has designed a unique collection of accessories for H&M.

Known for her extensive couture wardrobe and wildly elaborate style, ADR's unashamedly maximalist accessories range will include jewellery, clutch bags, sunglasses and of course, shoes (she has over 4000 pairs...) of accessories for H&M.

ADR reveals, "I wanted to create precious accessories that are impossible to find; pieces everybody can have fun, turning an ordinary day into a fantastic fashion day."

Available in selected H&M stores from October 4th 2012.

I call myself “the vestal of fashion” because for me fashion is a muse and you must seduce her. How? You have to feed the creative fire, so it doesn’t vanish."

"Wear lots of jewellery... the sound of jewellery banishes  bad thoughts and bad ghosts."

"Some people take drugs... I take collections!"

"I don't want to be cool - I want to be fashion!"

“I don’t have this routine life. I don’t go into the office; I’m travelling around the world. I’m lucky. But I never liked easy clothes in my life. My mother said, ‘You want a pair of jeans?’ and I said, ‘No, mother, I want a couture dress!’”

www.annadellorusso.com

Dreams and Love

thelondonchatter — Wed, 02 May 2012 16:50:46 +0000

'il n'est rien de réel que le rêve et l'amour'
Le Coeur innombrable, IV, Chanson du temps opportun - Anna de Noailles.

('Nothing is real but dreams and love' )

Credit Buy: Alex Monroe Love Bird Ring

thelondonchatter — Tue, 01 May 2012 10:56:53 +0000

Award winning British jeweller Alex Monroe’s handmade designs are inspired by nature, inherently English and a firm favourite amongst London's fashionistas.

The quirky, and always cute, jewellery is very wearable and distinctive, making any piece you choose a super sweet addition to any outfit.

The Bumblebee Necklace has long been popular amongst celebrities but it was his Love Bird Ring (below) which caught my eye last week - perfect for Spring! Tweet Tweet...

Alex Monroe Love Bird Ring
RRP. £180.00

Trend: Spring Shorts

thelondonchatter — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:09:00 +0000

I think wearing shorts are the perfect fashion solution for Springtime. Despite showing more leg than you would in a dress or skirt, by keeping your arms covered up in a silk shirt or jumper this look instantly becomes less provocative.

Denim shorts (worn with opaque tights and ankle boots if chilly) are an effortless and casual substitute for daytime wear, whereas a pair of tailored velvet, sequin or lace shorts are a brilliant, more luxe, evening alternative.

The British highstreet is currently flooded with shorts so this look is very attainable; I recommend Topshop for their short shorts and Zara for their silky shirts.

Below: British fashionista Alexa Chung, and her endlesssssssss legs, are frequently seen out and about, come rain or shine, in this comfortable and cool look...

Musical Moment: The Lumineers ('Ho Hey')

thelondonchatter — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:14:12 +0000

I am loving this beyond catchy debut single, filled with romance and regret, from The Lumineers self titled album released earlier this month.

Denver folk-rock trio (Wesley Schultz, Jeremiah Fraites and Neyla Pakarek) were formed after the death of a Fraite’s older brother, “out of sorrow, powered by passion and ripened by hard work.” After a fantastic performance at this year’s SXSW, The Lumineers are set to become ma-hoosive with music that has a nostalgic reverie and videos which leave you itching to join in with all their foot stompin’ folksy fun. Mood officially lifted.

"I belong with you, you belong with me, you're my sweetheart..."

www.thelumineers.com

Trend: Isabel Marant Wedge Trainers

thelondonchatter — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:17:00 +0000

Having taken the leap and finally taken off her much adored Isabel Marant Dicker Boots, Kate Bosworth was seen in Beverley Hills last week sporting the designer's coveted wedge trainers. In this laidback and relaxed Spring ensemble, Kate contrasts this season’s love of all things sporty (sweatshirt/trainers) with all things ladylike (pleated, flowy skirt.)

Isabel Marant’s coveted wedge trainers (the shoe that launched a thousand high street copies) is a look, much like our beloved UGG boots, that will no doubt be more popular with the girls wearing them than the boys looking at us in them. Functional and comfy usually don’t scream sexy, but hey, when he doesn’t have to give you a piggy back home, stiletto’s in hand, he’ll soon be won over...

RRP. £430.00

If you, like me and Beyonce, are happy to embrace the wedge, the velcro and your inner Marty McFly, here are some of my more affordable recommendations:

Above (clockwise): Ash Bowie Wedge Trainers in clay - £149.00, Ash Coolbis Wedge Trainers in black - £175.00, Topshop Acrobat Trainers - £78.00, Aldo Netz Wedge Trainers - £80.00, Asos Deny Wedge High Top Trainers with Suede detail £45.00

London 2012

thelondonchatter — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:17:40 +0000

Only 100 days to go until the London 2012 Olympics!
Go London Go!!

David Shrigley's Brain Activity

thelondonchatter — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 10:18:23 +0000

I recently went to the Hayward Gallery to visit the David Shrigley exhibition, 'Brain Activity.' This exhibition extends much further than the humourous, witty drawings he is best known for, with 240 works also including photographs, sculptures, paintings and animations.

I have always been a big fan of Shrigley’s random, dead-pan, scratchy doodles and there is a whole wall dedicated to these. I also really enjoyed the animations and photographs on show – yet more examples of his one liner humour which has you laughing out loud.

Shrigley’s sculptures (including a headless ostrich and a stuffed Jack Russell puppy holding a placard that says “I’m Dead”) seem less engaging and slightly more novelty.

Walking around the gallery you may question whether anything you are viewing is, or even should be, considered ‘art’ but what you certainly don’t question is how compelling and undeniably funny Shrigley’s work is. I am particularly fond of the animation below...

'Brain Activity’ at The Hayward Gallery is on until May 13th 2012.

Debit Buy - Zara Polka Dot Shirt

thelondonchatter — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:17:00 +0000

Above: I love Alexa Chung’s navy polka dot shirt she has recently been wearing around London.

Left: I have bought a very similar one to Alexa's from Zara. It is incredibly versitile and looks great with denim shorts or jeans. It is also available in cream with black polka dots. RRP. £29.99

A Street Cat Named Bob

thelondonchatter — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:21:05 +0000

In 2007, recovering heroin addict, James Bowen returned to his sheltered accommodation in Tottenham to find a thin, mangy ginger tomcat on his doorstep. Despite limited resources, James began to feed the cat and nurse him back to health. After a fruitless search to find the cat’s owners, James decided to keep the cat he'd christened Bob.

Bob soon began following James across London to Covent Garden where James would spend all day busking for spare change. To ensure Bob’s safety, James made a makeshift lead and purchased a travel card for the feline commuter… Yes, Bob enjoys daily tube rides, curled up on James’ shoulders. Wrapped in a scarf, Bob now spends his days sitting faithfully by James, being petted by adoring strangers and listening to his owner sing.

The relationship lead to the final push James needed to end his drug dependency, “Bob came and asked me for help, and he needed me more than I needed to abuse my own body.”

Alongside the busking, James has a new job as a Big Issue seller and amazingly, received a book deal - the brilliantly titled, heart warming tale, ‘A Street Cat Named Bob.’

“We’re two injured souls looking for someone we can trust — and we trust each other.”

'A Street Cat Named Bob' by James Bowen, £6.99

The Great Gatsby - Dapper and Flapper

thelondonchatter — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:37:00 +0000

Like pondering over which came first between the chicken or the egg (I'm still undecided) it is also pretty tricky to pinpoint which came first when discussing the current trend for 1920s fashion and the announcement of Baz Luhrmann’s re-make of The Great Gatsby.

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1920s novel, The Great Gatsby's most recent film adaptation stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Toby Maguire and Carey Mulligan. With several film stills recently released of Leo looking dapper and Carey looking flapper, I am craving all things fringed and flirty. Luckily London's high streets are filled with drop-waisted flapper dresses, beaded chiffon gowns, glittery headbands and long, lustrous strings of pearls.

(Below) Apparently I am not the only one embracing this deliciously decadent style... Georgia May Jagger, Fearne Cotton, Kate Bosworth, Marion Cotillard, Drew Barrymore and Elizabeth Olsen have all stepped out looking flappalicious.

Tiffany & Co have created sparkling, one-of-a-kind diamond jewellery for Carey Mulligan (left) to wear in the film, and it has been revealed that fashionista Ashley Olsen has generously loaned some of her own dresses to the movie’s wardrobe department from her vintage archive.

Baz Luhrmann's 'The Great Gatsby' is released at cinemas this December

Instagram

thelondonchatter — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:52:27 +0000

Have you downloaded Instagram yet? Snap a photo, or upload an existing one from your phone’s gallery, enhance it with eleven possible effects and instantly share it on Instagram and any other of your social networks. You can also follow your friends or other creative people from around the world and ‘like’ or comment on their pictures.

Easy. Peasy.

Along with 15 million other users, this free App is fast becoming my new obsession.

Amongst others, I'm enjoying following the boutiques Colette and Diani, drummer Tennessee Thomas, DJ/Presenter Izzy Lawrence and my favourite style bloggers Emily Schuman (Cupcakes and Cashmere) and Alix Blancourt (Cherry Blossom Girl.)

Above: Follow my Instagram at thelondonchatter

Not The Only One...

thelondonchatter — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:47:27 +0000

'All men who have achieved great things have been great dreamers...'

Orison Swett Marden (1850-1924)

Best of London - Awsa Bergstrom

thelondonchatter — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:28:54 +0000

Awsa. Pronounced with the same vowel as ‘Awesome.’ This is no coincidence. They are one and the same.

In the past the Scandinavian singer/songwriter Awsa Bergstrom has sung backing vocals for Stevie Wonder, Madonna, P Diddy, Elton, and more recently the amazing Emeli Sandé, but soon after Nick Cave asked her to ‘tone it down in the background,’ Awsa realized it was time to step up and take centre stage herself.

Currently living in West London, and now with a band of merry musicians in tow, Awsa’s soulful electro pop rock has all those who have watched her perform (including me, several times) simply floored. This girl can SING.

I forsee BIG things ahead for Awesome Awsa.

Awsa's hobby is Parkour (just too cool... seriously...) and with this city providing her with a playground for her Free Running who better to ask about their London favourites?

Cocktail - A good Margarita with Stephen Fry at Paramount Restaurant, which I think has one of the best views of London.

Date Night – With Superman Henry Cavill and a bottle/cup of whatever, walking along the Thames at night where anyone can dream big, followed by dinner at the OXO Tower.

Sunday Brunch - Hopefully still with Henry Cavill... at mine! I make the best Sunday Brunch. Alternatively, Smith of Smithfields, which reminds me of a New York loft.

Boutique - Scared of them. The entire concept means you have to have time and taste.

High Street Store - Topshop - It has everything a lazy girl could need.

London’s Best Kept Secret - Heygate Estate, Elephant and Castle. Perfect pearl for Parkour.

Your London Icon - Vivienne Westwood, for being THE definition of 'doing her own thing,' for having a boyfriend 25 years younger than her and looking at Graham Norton like he spoke Alien when he asked her if she "found inspiration in magazines..."

Above: 'If I Could Let Go,' 2010

Left: You can hear Awsa Bergstrom singing live at her next London gig THIS Friday, 30th March at The Notting Hill Arts Club.

Doors open at 8pm and Awsa will perform at 9.15pm.

Tickets £8.00 on the door.

www.awsamusic.com
@awsamusic

Temperley London Sample Sale

thelondonchatter — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 01:20:43 +0000

Temperley London Sample Sale

Wed 28th/Thurs 29th March, 8am – 7pm

20th Century Theatre,
29 Westbourne Grove,
London. W11 2QA

£1 admission fee.

All sizes and accessories.
New stock added every 4 hours.

Columbia Road Flower Market

thelondonchatter — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:54:00 +0000

Every Sunday since the 1980’s, Columbia Road, in London’s East End, transforms itself into a beautiful and bustling flower market...

Jessica and I went along to experience the heavenly scents and intense colours of this magical oasis on the sunniest of Spring days last weekend. We were instantly surrounded by an oasis of flora and fauna; plants, flowers, seedlings, herbs and fruit trees from all over the world emitting powerful perfumes (jasmine, orange, lily, pine, rose, etc) alongside endless, energetic chatter and chants from the sellers.

The street, and its surrounding maze of small alleys, are lined with cake shops, cafes, pubs, vintage clothes shops, small art galleries and an eclectic menagerie of buskers who enthrall the punters mingling amongst the flower stalls.

One band I watched (left) had an adorable dog tied up to their guitar case… It nonchalantly basked in the sunshine, soaking up the relaxing atmosphere, whilst its owners loudly and zealously entertained us all with some actual Sunday blues.

This market is other worldly... A thoroughly recommended Sunday stroll, coffee in hand.

Columbia Road Flower Market

Every Sunday, 8am - 2pm

Musical Moment: Lissie ('Everywhere I Go')

thelondonchatter — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 13:47:19 +0000

30 year old Lissie (Elisabeth Maurus) is a Mississippi raised folk rock artist living in LA. Described as having ‘Laurel Canyon prettiness stewed in campfire and bourbon’ this blonde and freckled singer has a remarkable voice and her debut album, ‘Catching A Tiger,’ is both powerful and honest, “I'm direct, I'm not hiding anything… I don't really know what or why or who I am... but I don't know how to not be how I am."

‘Everywhere I Go’ showcases Lissie beautifully and I find the video incredibly powerful… this is obviously helped somewhat by the enormous elephant faithfully following her.

Whenever I feel a little helpless I find this song to be really comforting… That despite any overwhelming circumstances, I’m never truly alone. I soon feel my spirits lift and smiles always follow. It also reeeally makes me want an elephant. Enjoy this – it’s a special one.

'Angels will follow me now everywhere I go...
Angels will call on me and take me to my home'

www.lissie.com

Nowhere In Particular...

thelondonchatter — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 11:26:00 +0000

Nick Brandt Photography

thelondonchatter — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 13:29:00 +0000

Above: Lions Head to Head, Masai Mara, 2008

It was this beautiful and extraordinarily intimate photograph of a pair of loving lions which first introduced me to the work of wildlife photographer Nick Brandt last year.

In 1995 British photographer Nick Brandt (then, a music video director) directed Michael Jackson’s 'Earth Song' in Tanzania and he immediately, rather understandably, fell in love with East Africa and its majestic animals. In 2000, Brandt embarked upon an ambitious photographic project; a trilogy of books immortalizing these animals and the vanishing natural grandeur of East Africa – up close, and very personally.

With a combination of dramatic panoramas of animals featured within epic landscapes alongside more soulful, graphic portraits, Nick Brandt manages to find an intimate connection with his wild subjects that reveal personalities and relationships far more so than any other wildlife photography I have ever seen. The titles of the trilogy of books will eventually be revealed to form one consecutive sentence: 'On This Earth, A Shadow Falls.....' (the final installment is due for publication in 2013.)

“What I am interested in is showing the animals simply in the state of Being. In the state of Being before they are no longer are. Before, in the wild at least, they cease to exist. This world is under terrible threat, all of it caused by us. To me, every creature, human or nonhuman, has an equal right to live, and this feeling, this belief that every animal and I are equal, affects me every time I frame an animal in my camera. The photos are my elegy to these beautiful creatures, to this wrenchingly beautiful world that is steadily, tragically vanishing before our eyes.”

Above Right: Elephant With Exploading Dust, Amboseli, 2004

In 2010, in urgent response to the escalation of poaching in Africa due to increased demand from the Far East (raw ivory fetches up to $800 per kg and rhino horn is worth more per ounce than gold dust) Nick Brandt founded the non-profit organization called Big Life Foundation. With donations, the organisation has placed multiple fully equipped teams of 120 anti-poaching rangers in both Kenya and Tanzania, who collaborate with communities to reduce poaching and conflicts between farmers and wildlife.

Above: Windswept Lion, Serengeti, 2002

Above: Elephants Walking Through Grass, Amboseli 2008
(Leading Matriarch Killed By Poachers, 2009)

Above: Hippos On The Mara River, Masai Mara, 2002

Above: Rhino on Lake, Nakuru, 2007

Above: Giraffes In Evening Light, Masai Mara, 2006

Above: Leopard In Crook Of Tree, Nakuru, 2007

Below: Nick Brandt's next exhibition, in New York from March 29th:

Above: Elephant Drinking, Amboseli, 2007

(Killed by Poachers, 2009)

www.nickbrandt.com

www.biglifeafrica.org

Matthew Williamson Spring Sample Sale

thelondonchatter — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:16:00 +0000

The Matthew Williamson Spring Sample Sale, with up to 80% off womanswear & accessories:

Wednesday 21st, 8am – 7pm
Thursday 22nd March, 8am – 7pm

The Music Room,
26 South Molton Lane,
Mayfair, W1K 5AB

Credit Buy - Project D's Aphrodite Sequin Dress

thelondonchatter — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:54:08 +0000

Friends Dannii Minogue and Tabitha Somerset-Webb’s label ‘Project D,’ launched in 2010, continues to go from strength to strength. The two ladies have created a beautiful capsule collection of feminine, empowering dresses, balancing Dannii’s sophisticated, red-carpet glamour with Tabitha’s more rock’n’roll edge. Dannii shared,"we will do the hard work and get the details on the dresses right, so all you have to do is enjoy them."

Below: The Aphrodite Sequin Dress is utterly show stopping…

RRP. £610 available at Austique.

Beyonce and Ivy's Cat and Mouse Footsteps

thelondonchatter — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 15:15:00 +0000

Last week Beyonce was photographed in NYC wearing a pair of much sought after Charlotte Olympia leopard print kitty flats (that I wrote about here) whilst 2 month old Blue Ivy, followed in her Mummy's fashionable footsteps, wearing teeny tiny Marc Jacobs gold mouse pumps. The diddy mice have attached socks and embroidered tails. Adorable!

Charlotte Olympia Kitty Flats RRP £485.00

March Jacobs Mouse Baby Pumps RRP £43.00

Here's Hoping...

thelondonchatter — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:01:29 +0000

La Belle de Jour - Caroline Sieber in Paris

thelondonchatter — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:07:00 +0000

Vienna raised/London based super stylist Caroline Sieber, stepped out to watch the Chloé fall 2012 runway show ten days ago during Paris Fashion Week in this more than gorgeous ensemble.

Wearing the enviable collection of a navy Pringle of Scotland sweater over her sugar pink Chloé dress, a Maison Michel hat, a Christopher Kane clutch and a pair of (I would sell my own Granny to own) Louis Vuitton bowed heels, Caroline looked the epitome of simple Spring elegance.

As one of only five brand ambassadors for Chanel, Caroline Sieber frequently tops all the most prostegious ‘Best Dressed’ lists, alongside her famous clients. Caroline lists Balenciaga, Balmain, Yves Saint Laurent, Charles Anastase, Burberry Prorsum, and of course Chanel, as her favorite designers and brands. New Style Crush.

Below: Caroline Sieber in some of my other favourite looks...

Credit Buy - Current Elliott Leopard Jeans

thelondonchatter — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:15:00 +0000

Come oooooon Spring!!!

Having spent the Winter eyeing up Kate Moss and SJP’s grey versions (left) I am now longing for these purrrrrrfectly pastel-blue leopard skinny jeans by L.A label Current Elliott.

Their faded, vintage look makes these jeans so versatile despite their distinctive feline pattern. I think they are the perfect balance between pretty and edgy. LOVE.

RRP. £205.00 at Matches

Alexa Chung: BFC Young Style Ambassador

thelondonchatter — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:50:00 +0000

Last week the British Fashion Council announced that Alexa Chung had been awarded the position of BFC Young Style Ambassador.

Model, style-writer, presenter, designer and muse, Alexa’s new postion will be to promote British fashion design talent to a global market, joining the already appointed Laura Bailey (the Cultural Ambassador) and Poppy Delevigne (the Young Ambassador.)

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council said, "we’re delighted to announce this role for Alexa. She is hugely influential in both the fashion industry and to the wider public, who have voted her as winner of the British Style Award at the British Fashion Awards for two years running."

Alexa commented, “I adore fashion and am proud that it's now officially my job to champion those London designers both new and established that inspire me so much.'”

I have always adored Alexa Chung's eclectic style (sometimes tom boy, sometimes dolly – always cool) and I can think of no one better suited and booted for this role.

Below are some of the stunning pictures from Alexa’s recent Elle Magazine cover shoot, photographed by Thomas Schenk, and an all-access, behind-the-scenes video from the day, courtesy of Elle TV.

The Dolce and Gabanna baby blue perspex shoes she wore on the cover are to.die.for. Wannem.

Musical Moment - Battle of 'Somebody That I Used to Know' (Gotye vs. Walk Off the Earth)

thelondonchatter — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 10:12:00 +0000

Below: I am sure that by now you have heard this song by Gotye (pronounced like the designer Jean-Paul Gaultier.)

Reflective and intense, the song is about the end of a passionate love affair and in baring all emotionally, the music video shows the singer’s body also bare, slowly being painted with geometric shapes until he blends into the patterned wall. You then hear an intimate verse sung from the woman’s perspective, by Kiwi singer Kimbra.

Below: Little known Canadian Indie band, Walk Off the Earth, recorded a captivating cover of the song soon after Gotye’s own release, and became an instant YouTube phenomenon mainly due to it’s five members all playing the same acoustic guitar… See it to believe it; Instrumentally impressive and just extraordinarily cool. They have subsequently earned a record deal.

Gotye’s reaction? "It's like a throwback to the Sixties where a local act could pip the original artist to the post in their market. I wish them all the best with the song - it's a clever, novelty cover. But I won't deny there's a part of my ego that really doesn't want their version to eclipse mine."

Currently, Goyte’s video has 107,865,288 views and Walk Off the Earth has 71,032,066…

Which do you prefer?

Debit Buy - Pieces Gaja Bangles at ASOS

thelondonchatter — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:51:00 +0000

If the gorgeous Melissa Lo Cosmo bracelets I previously wrote about (here) are still out of your arm's reach then you'll love this set of Pieces Gaja Bangles available from ASOS.

Crafted in gold-tone metal with a hammered finish, and punctuated with smooth cream stones, these three embellished stacking bangles are suuuper affordable and the perfect way to show off your wrists once they come out of their wooly-gloved hibernation...

RRP. £7.00 at ASOS

Helena Christensen visits Kenya with Oxfam

thelondonchatter — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:04:00 +0000

We are all more used to seeing the supermodel and photographer Helena Christensen in the various glamorous fashion capitals around the world, but she has more recently returned from Kenya, from her third international trip as an ambassador for Oxfam.

Spending time with women from Turkana in Northern Kenya, Helena reported back on how their lives, and those of their families and neighbours, have drastically changed due to the recent climate changes and severe drought – the worst in 60 years - which has left over 13 million people at risk in the Horn of Africa.

Ahead of today's International Women’s Day, Helena described how the women are struggling to cope with unpredictable weather and sky-rocketing food prices...

“Whether or not they can provide their children with two solid meals a day is out of their control… I cannot imagine being so unsure about my son’s future and having to worry about where his next meal comes from… There is enough food in the world for everyone but one in seven people go to bed hungry every day and the majority are women and girls."

With the link between climate change and the seriously difficult lives of the women Helena met being glaringly obvious, she is now urging world leaders to take the necessary, fundamental steps towards fixing the world’s broken food system, by asking them to deliver on the money pledged for the world’s poorest countries at the Copenhagen summit two years ago, “it is shameful that some of the biggest emitters and most powerful nations, like the US, are blocking real progress that could prevent millions more people in Africa and elsewhere being driven into hunger.”

Tim Gore, head of Oxfam's climate change, added “rich countries must now deliver the money they have promised to help poor countries adapt to climate change and develop in a low carbon way. New sources of long-term finance to flow through the Green Climate Fund must be agreed as soon as possible for the sake of the world’s poorest people whose lives are already being devastated by the impacts of climate change.”

Learn more about the Global Campaign for Climate Action here

Donate to Oxfam here

Kony 2012

thelondonchatter — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 20:17:00 +0000

Please Share this Video...

Make Kony Famous

Gwyneth Paltrow Flying High at the Oscars

thelondonchatter — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:24:00 +0000

My favourite look from this year’s Oscars was undoubtedly Gwyneth Paltrow in Tom Ford. Despite Angelina’s left leg trying its best to pull focus, Gwyneth was stunningly statuesque in a white column gown with matching cape. With natural make up and a soft, relaxed ponytail (an unusual red-carpet trend at this year’s awards) Gwyneth looked breathtakingly fresh, modern and elegant amongst the annual swarm of frills and fluff.

Gwyneth revealed, “I saw a pic of Jackie O in a white dress with a cape and it's been a while since anyone's worn a cape, frankly, except for Superman." The picture she described (left) was of Jackie O in the cream chiffon gown and sweeping cape she designed herself and wore to the inaugural ball in 1961.

Coming a close second to Gwyneth was Oscar nominated Michelle Williams (below) always a red carpet favourite of mine, wearing a pomegranate-coral coloured peplum gown by Louis Vuitton. I loved her clashing pink clutch bag, bright pink lips and the adorable diamante bow brooch attached to her waist.

A special style mention should go to Natalie Portman (far left) the picture of timeless elegance, who chose to wear a 1954 Christian Dior vintage couture polka dot gown despite having her choice of every new dress off the runway. Also, the Oscar nominated Rooney Mara (left) who wore a unique, backless Givenchy structured dress with origami folds and lace details – the white gown along with her porcelain skin, deep red lips and blunt, raven hair created a startlingly striking look on the red carpet.

Right: Cameron Diaz, who rarely ever puts a foot (or Choo) wrong on the red carpet in my opinion, shone in both her contrasting dresses on the big night; a beautiful and shimmering, pale pink Gucci dress for the awards, followed by a dazzlingly bright orange dress by Victoria Beckham for the Vanity Fair party.

L'Odyssée de Cartier

thelondonchatter — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 10:19:00 +0000

Celebrating its 165th Anniversary, Cartier has released a visually spectacular (and super sparkly) commercial, 'L'Odyssée de Cartier,' which follows the epic, international adventure of an emerald-eyed panther – the iconic muse of the House of Cartier.

Directed by Bruno Aveillan, the no expenses spared, 3.5 minute film took over 2 years to complete and was shot on location in Czechoslovakia, Spain, the Dolomites, and France.

Striking supermodel Shalom Harlow (left) is filmed wearing a show stopping, custom-made, Cartier-red dress created by Chinese fashion designer Yiqing Yinwith.

Cartier’s UK’s executive Chairman Arnaud M.Bamberger explained, "this project has been treated like a real movie… we wanted the best special effects, a big director, an incredible model and props to intertwine with our incredible history… We wanted a movie we would be proud to show to Steven Spielberg.” A real gem.

Musical Moment: John Farnham ('You're The Voice')

thelondonchatter — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:44:00 +0000

It was at the after party of my best friend Beatrice's 2009 wedding to her husband Alvaro in Formentera where I first heard this song with all its beats and its bagpipes - the 1980's cult classic, 'You're The Voice,' by Australian singer John Farnham.

This song was loudly played on a loop for hours and we never got bored of it for a moment; dancing just as passionately on its tenth triumphant play, as we had done on its first.

Happy Birthday My Darling Beaty. xxxx

In Need Of...

thelondonchatter — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:53:00 +0000

Mary Katrantzou for Topshop

thelondonchatter — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:27:00 +0000

Greek designer Mary Katrantzou’s beautifully bold and vibrant prints, usually seen on Alexa Chung and Keira Knightley, will soon be available to us all in an exclusive capsule collection she has designed for Topshop.

Available online and in shops from 9am this Friday, the designer has said vivid flower brooches and Qing Lond Dynasty floral motif china have inspired the striking collection.

Prices start at just £40 and go up to £350 for the structured bowl-dress (left.)

Helpful Hankies

thelondonchatter — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:53:00 +0000

Valentine’s Day, also known by many as ‘Single People’s Awareness Day!’

Moi Self have made these hilarious Helpful Hankies juuust in case...

£8.33 each at my-wardrobe.com

Valentine's Day Angels

thelondonchatter — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:04:00 +0000

Victoria Secret Angels are to Valentine’s Day what Reindeer are to Christmas…

Supermodels Lily Aldridge, Doutzen Kroes, Lindsay Ellingson, Candice Swanepoel and Erin Heatherton share their thoughts on LOVE in this Victoria Secret Valentine's Day video.

Valentines Day Lust List

thelondonchatter — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:05:00 +0000

Many cynics would have us believe that Valentine’s Day is just another sugar-coated celebration designed by Hallmark in an annual bid to make sweethearts spend their life savings… Bar-Hearts-Bug! In fact, it is a historical celebration of Saint Valentine’s romantic martyrdom (a 3rd Century Roman priest who, after Emperor Claudius II had outlawed marriage, continued to unite young lovers and was eventually executed for doing so...) Now, around ONE BILLION Valentine’s Day cards are sent worldwide each year.

So if you innocently, by mistake, just so happen, to leave this page open on your boyfriend or husband's laptop, no one will judge... You're merely honouring a Saint.

"Without Valentine's Day, February would be... well, January."

Above: Breakthrough Fiji Bracelet (15% from this piece goes to Breakthrough Breast Cancer) £115.00 from Monica Vinader, Sexy Panties and Naughty Knickers Monroe Soft Bra, £29.17 at Austique, 1 Dozen Long Stemmed Ecuadorian Valentine's Roses, £69.00 at Only Roses, Tainted Love Set (includes their bestselling lip gloss, a multiple colourstick and a popping pink nailpolish) £44 at Nars, Chloe eau de parfum 50ml, £52.00 at Selfridges

"I fell in love with her courage, her sincerity, and her flaming self-respect, and it's these things I'd believe in even if the whole world indulged in wild suspicions that she wasn't all she should be. I love her and that's the beginning of everything."

F. Scott Fitzgerald

Left: Je t’aime Cushion, £69.50 at Jan Constantine and

Red Love Cushion, £66.50 Jan Constantine

Above: Rosa Mundi Limited Edition Scented Candle, £40 at Diptyque, Love Letters Book, £125 at Smythson, Hummingbird Love Cupcakes, £2.50 each at Hummingbird Bakery, Rose Pebble Soap, £16.00 at Daylesford Organic, Rose Duo Gift Set, £38.00 at REN

Left: Personalised
Love Biscuits, £39.50 at Biscuiteers. 8 hand made, personalised , iced chocolate biscuits
delivered in a Hearts Tin

"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." Charles M. Schulz

Above: Engraved Marano Clutch, £350.00 at Anya Hindmarch.

You can have the clasp of this glittery Anya Hindmarch clutch engraved - a truly memorable gift. Each Marano charmingly has a little dance card tucked into its pocket!

Above: Heart-Shaped Chopping Board, £34.99 at notonthehightstreet.com, Love Love Tea, £4.95 at Harvey Nichols, Blush Sarong (10% from this sarong goes to Coral Conservation) £45.00 from Sophia Rogge, Moët & Chandon ‘Your Love’ Rosé Champagne (includes a gold pen to write a Valentine’s message onto its pink bottle) £47.50 at The Champagne Company, Nice Dream Last Night Mug, £15.95 at Emma Bridgewater

Above: Soft Pink Printed Scarf, £195 at Mulberry, Valentine's Day Macaroons,

£14.10 for 6 (pink grapefruit combined with vanilla) at Laduree

"Love is everything it's cracked up to be... It really is worth fighting for, being brave for, risking everything for. And the trouble is, if you don't risk everything, you risk even more."
Erica Jong

Left: Cashmere Bed Socks, £32.00 at The White Company

"If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?"

Above: Scarlet Cashmere Wristwarmers, £19 (in sale) at Brora, Naughty Cow Travel Kit (includes Lippy Cow Lip Balm, Knackered Cow Bath & Shower Gel,  Wild Cow Body Lotion, Wild, Horny or Lazy Cow Satin Knickers) £26 at Cowshed, Flamingo Kiss Stripe Tee, £28.00 at Urban Outfitters, 'Rien Que Toi, Moi, Nous' Ring ('Nothing But You, Me, Us') £85.00 at Laura Lee Jewellery, Laurie Silk Chiffon Briefs, £25 (in sale) at Agent Provocateur, Vintage Red Lips Clutch, £295.00 at Lulu Guinness

And remember boys... Nothing says LOVE quite like LOUBOUTINS

Above: Some of the SS'12 Christian Louboutin collection - Swooooon!

Sweet (Toothed) Nothings

thelondonchatter — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:40:00 +0000

Vanity Fair Hollywood Issue 2012

thelondonchatter — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:17:00 +0000

It’s that time of the year where we ask ourselves: Who is the Vanity Fairest of them all?

The annual March Hollywood issue of Vanity Fair is now available and features the ‘fresh stars of 2012’ on its cover, photographed by Mario Testino.

Chosen for their impact on film in the last year, the lineup of 11 actresses includes two Oscar nominees, Rooney Mara (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo) and Jessica Chastain (The Help) alongside Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Lawrence, Elizabeth Olsen, Adepero Oduye, Shailene Woodley, Paula Patton, Felicity Jones, Lily Collins and Brit Marling.

“This group has solid acting credentials. Some have already taken on great roles, and I think that all of these girls are on the go-to list for every film currently being cast,” explained Vanity Fair features editor Jane Sarkin.

Madonna's Lucky Star

thelondonchatter — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:51:00 +0000

Madonna chose to wear customised Markus Lupfer’s S/S’12 Intarsia Jumpers for the cover of her new single ‘Give Me All Your Luvin.’ The designer joked, “It's a star for a star!"

Madonna will debut the song, which features Nicki Minaj and MIA, during American idol on the 2nd February.

Left: This super soft and super pouty Markus Lupfer 'Oversized Smacker Lip Tee' is available just in time for Valentines Day....

RRP. £70.83 at Austique.

MOVE

thelondonchatter — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:21:00 +0000

3 Guys. 2 Cameras. 44 Days. 11 Countries. 18 flights. 38,000 miles.

Just. So. Awesome.

Credit Buy - Annoushka's Love Diamonds

thelondonchatter — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:08:00 +0000

www.annoushka-jewellery.com

Inspired by Russian fable and fairytale, the country’s rich colours and historical opulence, Annoushka Ducas launched her fine jewellery range in 2009.

Annoushka Doucas explains, “I have tried to remove the feeling of reverence that so often surrounds the whole experience of buying and wearing fine jewellery, I want our pieces to be worn every day; to encourage women to wear their huge, glamorous cocktail rings to a party, but also to dress up their jeans.”

I love her delicate Love Diamond Collection – in particular, the horseshoe necklace (which I have long been coveting like a little magpie) and the matching bracelet...

Horseshoe Necklace - right

(Love Diamonds Collection)

18ct yellow gold and diamond

RRP. £495.00

Horseshoe Bracelet - left

(Love Diamonds Collection)

18ct yellow gold and diamond

RRP. £360.00

Just The Way You Are...

thelondonchatter — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:59:00 +0000

The Lomax Way

thelondonchatter — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:26:00 +0000

I was recently invited to Lomax Victoria to experience ‘The Lomax Way’ - a combination of bespoke fitness, tailored nutrition and holistic wellbeing...

Step One: Podular Training

Founder and personal trainer Jonny Lomax’s concept of Podular Training consists of you exercising (either alone, with a trainer, or in a class) in one of their eight fully equipped personal fitness pods, each offering several different work out options, including spinning and circuit training. With no monthly fees or contracts – the pay-as-you-go rates for Podular Training range from £20 - £65 (or if bought in bulk, £10 - £55.)

Daunted by my 40 minute personal training session with Jonny, I felt obliged to mention that not only am I NOT a gym-bunny (worse, I haven’t moved quicker than a strut in over a decade) but I am also seriously mal-coordinated and that this whole ordeal could be really rather embarrassing. After some confidence boosting and a motivational pep talk, I was soon spinning away and circuit training (“Sets” and “Reps” - evil, evil little words!)

Apparently I am not as unfit as I think and I even began to enjoy my 'Gazelle Jumps' (soon renamed 'Giselle Jumps') as I eagerly hopped up and down onto a high box without any complaints or squeaks... Unlike my turn with the weights... Unfortunately my frequently used excuse of ‘not being built for lifting’ did not get me out of that particular exercise!

Apparently if I were to do this twice a week, the results would come fast and furiously – and after 2 days of various muscles I never knew that I had mercilessly aching, I felt bouncy, energetic and ready to do it all again.

Step Two: Nutritional Consultation

If I had previously felt apprehensive in revealing my lack of natural athleticism to Jonny, that was nothing compared to the anxiety I felt over my meeting with Zoe Copesy, the nutritionist at Lomax.

However, sitting in the Lomax cafe with Zoe (left, a gorgeous, glowing example of what she preaches) whilst we sipped on Vita Coco and munched protein Bounce Balls, she showed no judgment whatsoever over my daily diet (ummm... chocolate, Cheerios and cupcakes) but instead gave me some brilliant, accessible, advice on how I can fit better eating habits around my lifestyle. I was then given a freshly prepared foodbox from the Lomax café, based upon my own health goals and protein, carbohydrate and fat requirements.

Step Three: Wellbeing

At Lomax, professionals from around the world aim to help you achieve a physical and emotional balance, offering physiotherapy, osteopathy, massage, holistic facials, acupuncture, homoeopathy and meditation.
I was spoiled with a relaxing massage, combined with metatronic healing, leaving me feeling more refreshed and balanced than I had felt in weeks – I believe I could also benefit from two of these sessions a week!

Thank you to all at Lomax Victoria!

I am now very excited to see the new Lomax Chelsea venue which opens in February at 293 Fulham Road... With even more fully equipped pods and an expanded class roster they will also be offering sit in/take away nutritionally balanced meals and snacks, a juice bar and delicious Monmouth coffee. There will be 5 treatment rooms and also a studio for pilates, yoga and barre classes. If you pre-register with them at Lomax Victoria now, you will receive 50% off all services during your first month in Chelsea… Sign. Me. Up.

Alice Temperley's Got Talent

thelondonchatter — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:13:00 +0000

Move over Simon Cowell, Alice Temperley is now searching for Britain’s Next Big Thing…

Each season, the celebrated British designer of all things ethereal, will invite an emerging creative (model/musician/artist/actor) to showcase their talent alongside the latest, and more contemporary Temperely range, Alice By Temperley, collection in a short film which will be shown on their website.

Alice explains, "I am always on the lookout for new talent and love being inspired by unique skills and meeting artisans with passion for their craft… It was appropriate to dedicate space and time to promote emerging talent through the platforms and audiences we have available to us, supporting the future icons."

In conjunction with the launch of the label’s pre A/W’12 collection, the project kicks off with unsigned singer/songwriter, Isabel, whom Alice heard at an impromptu gig at the Glastonbury Cider Bus last summer. Isabel performs her song "Kiss Me Madder" in a romantic music video (below) directed by two of the designer’s siblings, Henry and Matilda, shot in East London, the Golborne Road and the Somerset countryside.

Isabel models some of the pre A/W’12 Alice by Temperley collection in the video and unsurprisingly I’ve fallen for many of the clothes - some of my favourites are below…

If you think you know/are the next (*drum role) Temperley Talent, or are an upcoming artist wishing to display your work in an area of the London or Los Angeles Temperley boutiques, submit your work for consideration by emailing talent@temperleylondon.com

Believe

thelondonchatter — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:09:00 +0000

Musical Moment - Lana Del Rey ('Born To Die')

thelondonchatter — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:56:00 +0000

The release of Lana Del Rey’s haunting debut single Video Games last October proved a huge hit with the fash pack; Both Christopher Kane and Emilio de la Morena both used the song in their London Fashion Week shows last Autumn, Antonio Berardi, Moschino and Prabal Gurung have all recently dressed her, and she also performed at Mulberry's SS’12 presentation in New York.

It comes as no surprise then that the blonde beauty, with those lips, has now also been signed to Next Model Management – another big year ahead for Miss LDR.

"Come take a walk on the wild side

Let me kiss you hard in the pouring rain

You like your girls insane..."

Lana Del Rey's 'Born To Die' will be released on January 23rd

Oh, the Places You'll Go at Burning Man!

thelondonchatter — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:26:00 +0000

Reminding us all to live adventurously and with great faith, Los Angeles based photographer Teddy Saunders at Tedshots, brought Dr. Seuss’ beautiful and joyous ode to life, ‘Oh, The Places You Will Go,’ to the screen last summer at the dusty extravaganza, Burning Man, in the deserts of Nevada.

In the below video you will see a bunch of brilliant and charming ‘Burners’ recite this classic story of life's ups and downs, with all its unrivaled exuberance, in a series of vibrant shots alongside a magical musical score.

Austique Sample Sale

thelondonchatter — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:23:00 +0000

Gianni's Muses

thelondonchatter — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:53:00 +0000

Ditte Reffstrup, the creative director of Danish label Gianni (founded in 2000 and launched in the UK last year) has revealed that the label is inspired by four style icons in particular; Audrey Hepburn in ‘Funny Face,’ Jean Seberg in ‘A Bout De Souffle,’ Vanessa Paradis in ‘Be My Baby’ and Kristen Dunst in ‘The Virgin Suicides.’ Ok, you have my attention…

"That's a lot of different influences all in one, but it's what makes it fun to work with," says Ditte Reffstrup "It's also what makes it possible to dress in Ganni from top to bottom without looking like you're only wearing one label.”

Ditte Reffstrup explains that the Gianni look aims at mixing “the best of past icons but tweaked for the modern everyday girls of today,” and the result is simple femininity; floral skirts, slouchy jumpers, well cut trenches paired and Parisian stripey tops...

Gianni will launch a standalone shop in London later this year.

Golden Globes 2012

thelondonchatter — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:06:00 +0000

I love the Golden Globes…

As Ricky Gervais observed in his opening gambit this weekend, they are to The Oscars what Kim Kardashian is to Kate Middleton, “a bit louder, a bit trashier, a bit drunker.”

One BIG similarity with the two award ceremonies however, is their focus on the dresses…

Here are my favourites of the night...

Below (L-R): Jessica Alba is always impeccably perfect - in Gucci, Emma Stone is my red carpet crush - in Lanvin, Charlize Theron looks completely dreeeeamy in Dior - the winner.

Below (L-R): Angelina Jolie’s flashes of red in Atelier Versace, Michelle Williams is always unique - in Jason Wu, Rachel Evan Wood dramatically ruffling feathers in Gucci Première.

Below: I am sorry Ladies, but I just was not a big fan of your choices…

(L-R) Elle MacPherson - TuTu much In Zac Posen, Lea Michele is a bit too ‘flashy,’ in Marchesa, Sarah Michelle Gellar – Spilt. Paint. Everywheeere. In Monique Lhuillier.

Below (L-R): Charlize Theron and Michelle Williams both decided to wear delicate headbands – I feel a new red carpet trend for 2012 may have just begun…

I have been left excited to see award winning film, ‘The Artist,' a romantic French film directed by Michel Hazanavicius, starring Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo.

The story takes place in Hollywood between 1927 and 1932 and focuses on a declining male film star and a rising actress, as silent cinema grows out of fashion and is replaced by the ‘talkies.’ Most of the film itself is silent; it is shown in black-and-white, and Jean Dujardin also won the Best Actor Award this weekend at the Golden Globes.

Matthew Williamson Pre Fall 2012 Collection

thelondonchatter — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:23:00 +0000

Matthew Williamson recently celebrated his Fabulous Fortieth at the beautiful Aynhoe Park in the Oxfordshire countryside. His gorgeous gaggle of girls and muses (including his BF Sienna Miller, below) all wore dresses from his different collections dating back to 1998.

Below L - R: Tali Lennox in the Pre Fall‘11 Feather Georgette Maxi, Poppy Delevingne in the AW‘11 Ombre Sequin Mini, Matthew WIlliamson, Sienna Miller in the Galaxy dress from the AW’99 Glomad collection, Cara Delevinge in the Pre Fall'11 Feathered Tulle Cocktail Dress.

But Matthew, as much as we love all these OLD dresses, what about all the NEW ones...?!

Below: A sneak peak at some of the Matthew Williamson pre-fall 2012 collection which consists of tribal prints, stunning embellishment and a 1970’s influence running throughout; printed jumpsuits, flared trousers, stunning maxi dresses - and an unfortunate use of fur.

www.matthewwilliamson.com

Best Of London - Humphrey Ker

thelondonchatter — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:23:00 +0000

Acclaimed comedian. History geek. Brilliant storyteller. Fantastically funny. Toweringly tall.

Humphrey Ker is one third of the Victoriana-themed comedy troupe ‘The Penny Dreadfuls,’ a featured talent on BBC2’s ‘Fast and Loose’ and more recently, a solo performer in ‘Dymock Watson: Nazi Smasher!’ for which he recently won ‘Best Newcomer’ at the Foster's Comedy Awards. Based on the experiences of his grandfather, ‘Dymock Watson: Nazi Smasher!’ Humphrey comically portrays a series of heavily accented characters, including Nazi soldiers, a Texan Belle, a Romanian musical theatre actor, a foul mouthed Scottish spy chief, and of course, the hero himself – Dymock Watson - a naval officer parachuted into Romania on a secret mission in 1943.

The piece is jam packed with laughs and drama and I implore you to book your tickets now! In the meantime, London based Humphrey shares with us his London favourites...

My Pint – A pint of coke. Can't afford to get into alcohol as I have a heavily addictive personality. That + Booze = NO FUN.

My Date Night – My girlfriend Carrie and I love a trip to the theatre followed by a late night Chinese at The Four Seasons on Gerrard St.

My Sunday Brunch – Nobody does a better roast than my friend Sam Collins. Everyone reading this should make friends with him. If that proves impossible, Kerbisher & Malt on Shepherds Bush Road for a fishy alternative.

My Building – The Tower of London. Bad ass.

My London Shop – ‘The Orcs Nest’ on Cambridge Circus. I am a dork and they don't come dorkier than this shop.

My London Extravagance – Chateaubriand and Potted Haddock at Hawksmoor.

London's Best Kept Secret – It's probably me isn't it?

My London Icon (Past or Present) – Samuel Pepys. He wrote well and he ate well... What more can any man aspire to?

Humphrey Ker's 'Dymock Watson: Nazi Smasher!' is showing at the Soho Theatre on 26th Jan-4th Feb, 13th-18th Feb at 9.30pm.

Billy's Back - The Oscar's Host Revealed

thelondonchatter — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:47:00 +0000

Meghan Fox and Josh Duhamel were tasked with tracking down the hilarious Billy Crystal, one of the most popular Oscar hosts ever, to present this year’s 84th Academy Awards…

As much as I love films, lets face it, the Oscars are also all about the DRESSES!

Below: Some of my all time favourite looks... All award worthy!

Below: When BAD dresses happen to GOOD people... How? How? HOW?...

Below: And every year, there's aaaalways SOMEONE who leaves us speechless...

The Oscars will take place on 26th February

Musical Moment - Doris Troy ('Just One Look')

thelondonchatter — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:30:00 +0000

Doris Troy was an American R&B singer discovered whilst working as an usherette at Harlem's Apollo theatre by James Brown.

Co-writing and recording ‘Just One Look’ in 1963, Doris was nicknamed ‘Mama Soul’ by her British fans and soon settled in London where she was signed by The Beatles to their Apple Records label. Frequently appearing at Soho’s Ronnie Scott's Club in the 1970’s, Doris was often backed in her live shows by a fledgling Elton John (still known then as Reg Dwight!) on piano.

Despite certain successes, Doris Troy was forever grateful for the royalties that continuously trickled in from 'Just One Look' and before she passed away in 2004 she reflected, "When I recorded that song in a little basement studio in New York, I asked God to keep that song alive forever… And you know, he answers prayers...”

"Just one look, that's all it took..."

Credit Buy - The Mulberry Harriet

thelondonchatter — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 07:56:00 +0000

Wear It Like Beckham

thelondonchatter — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:04:00 +0000

Footballer and fashion-he-ster, David Beckham has unveiled his debut H&M collection of bodywear for men. The range, which also includes t’shirts, pyjamas and… long johns, will be available from February 2nd nationwide.

"Working with a team has always been a key part of my life and I found that to be the same when developing this range. I always want to challenge myself and this was such a rewarding experience for me. I'm very happy with the end result and I hope H&M's male customers will be as excited as I am."

I’m sorry David, did you say something...?!

J'adore Dior

thelondonchatter — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Mila Kunis has been chosen as the new face of Christian Dior, representing the label's SS'12 Miss Dior handbag campaign.

Joining her fellow 'Black Swan' star Natalie Portman, the current face of Miss Dior Cherie, Mila follows in the footsteps of other Dior beauties; Nicole Kidman, Marion Cotillard, Charlize Theron and the legendary, Marilyn Monroe.

Mila said, "I always thought what Dior does is so sophisticated, feminine and beautiful" – as are these photographs of the actress shown below...

2012 Olympic Games Commemorative Coins

thelondonchatter — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:55:19 +0000

In the lead up to THIS year’s Olympic Games in London, a series of commemorative coins are being issued by the Royal Mint.

29 sports will be represented on 50 pence pieces and in this particular design below, by Neil Wolfson, an attempt is made to explain football’s ‘Offside Rule.’

So now you can happily, and with full comprehension of the rules, sit watching football with your boyfriend… Orrrr, you can go and spend your 50p.

Here We Go Again...

thelondonchatter — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 14:48:00 +0000

2012

thelondonchatter — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 15:54:00 +0000

Movie Moment: 'Harry Met Sally'

thelondonchatter — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 13:26:00 +0000

23 years after it was made 'Harry Met Sally' still wins hands-down for having the best New Year's Eve scene of all time (not to mention the most romantic speech... and the best perm...)

"I love that you get cold when it is 71 degrees out.

I love that it takes you an hour and a half to order a sandwich.

I love that you get a little crinkle in your nose when you're looking at me like I'm nuts.

I love that after I spend day with you, I can still smell your perfume on my clothes.

And I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night.

And it's not because I'm lonely, and it's not because it's New Year's Eve.

I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible..."

Happy New Years Eve...

thelondonchatter — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 06:32:00 +0000

An adorble New Year's ditty, 'What Are You Doing New Year's Eve,' from my girl-crush Zooey Deschanel and her '(500) Days of Summer' co-star, Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

I want a tiara. Now.

Dance tha night away y'all - and remember,

"He who breaks a resolution is a weakling; He who makes one is a fool...”

Ice Skating at The Natural History Museum

thelondonchatter — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 09:35:00 +0000

Before I returned back home for a sunny Kenyan Christmas (the reason for my lack of postings recently – the internet is sooo slooow!) I went to The Natural History Museum to go ice-skating. To be clear, I am a beach baby through and through and outside of a mojito, ice is not an old friend of mine, so I was a little apprehensive to say the least!

Despite being like a fish out of water, I approached the ice rink full of Dancing On Ice, glittering gusto (“if that girl off Hollyoaks can do it, so can I”) and after a wobbly start (and a few moments where I contemplated grabbing a little penguin stabilizer off a nearby child) I was up, up and awaaay, looping around the ice to the pumping sounds of... Westlife. I really recommend you go (and don’t forget your gloves, hat and… ipod!)

The Ice Rink is open until the 8th of January 2012 and tickets (from £8) can be bought here.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas....

thelondonchatter — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0000

Truly, Madly, Depply

thelondonchatter — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:00:00 +0000

“There are four questions of value in life...

What is sacred?

Of what is the spirit made?

What is worth living for,

And what is worth dying for?

The answer to each is the same.

Only love.”

Johnny Depp

What a Wonderful World...

thelondonchatter — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:31:00 +0000

I see trees of green, red roses too

I see 'em bloom, for me and you

And I think to myself what a wonderful world...

'Tis The Season...

thelondonchatter — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:45:00 +0000

Julia Restoin Roitfeld's Lingerie Collection

thelondonchatter — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:45:00 +0000

Julia Restoin Roitfeld, model and daughter of ex-French Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld, has designed a capsule collection of vintage inspired lingerie with Kiki de Monparnasse - the American lingerie label named after the chic French actress at the heart of the 1920 social scene in the Montparnasse district of Paris.

The result of the collaboration is a romantic, boudoir-esq collection of lacy robes, underwired corselette bras in satin and French lace and matching high waisted bottoms from times gone by. Julia says, “Lingerie should feel as good to wear as it looks… I buy lingerie for myself, not even for my boyfriend… I think it is really important for a woman to feel good about herself and buying lingerie that makes you feel good is a great way to start. Even if it’s just for yourself—even if no one else sees it—you know it, you feel it, and I believe it gives you that extra confidence.”

The underwear is beautfully modelled by Julia herself in a series of black and white pictures which are reminicent of a young Elizabeth Taylor circa 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.'

The range will be available online here from December 14.

Harvey Nichols Walk of Shame

thelondonchatter — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:00:00 +0000

In stark contrast to the tear-jerking John Lewis advert, Harvey Nichols have released their own take on Christmas in this hilarious viral advert.

With no tinsel, no presents, no wise men… and certainly no angels... Harvey Nichols promises to turn a girl’s walk of shame into a stride of pride this festive season, with the help of their stylish collection of womenswear.

Julia Bowe, group-marketing director at Harvey Nichols says, “A fabulous dress teamed with a great pair of shoes will atone for a multitude of sins in our eyes."

Movie Moment: The Notebook

thelondonchatter — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 11:25:00 +0000

“They didn’t agree on much. In fact, they didn’t agree on anything.

But despite their differences, they had one important thing in common...

They were crazy about eachother."

Credit Buy - Charlotte Olympia Kitty Flats

thelondonchatter — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:27:00 +0000

Alexa Chung spent most of the Autumn wearing these purrfect Charlotte Olympia black velvet Kitty slipper flats (above and below.)

RRP. £485.00

At last week’s British Fashion Awards Alexa picked up her second consecutive British Style Award whilst wearing this heeled version of the shoe (left.)

RRP. £545.00

Marni on the Highstreet

thelondonchatter — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:22:00 +0000

Move over Donatella…

Hot on Versace’s stiletto heels, we now have a gorgeous looking Marni collaboration with H&M to look forward to - I am VERY excited - I adore their bold patterns and accessories.

Famed for their original, playful prints and inventive spirit, the Founder and Creative Director of Marni, Consuelo Castiglioni, has designed a Spring collection for H&M which will include both clothing and accessories in a range of fabrics from silk to crisp cotton poplin.

"I wanted to create a true Marni wardrobe by revisiting all our favorite pieces in signature fabrics and prints," commented Consuelo Castiglioni, "as always, I love juxtaposing prints and colours, mixing modern tribal with Bauhaus graphic adding sporty utilitarian elements."

Available from March 8th 2012

Disney Diva

thelondonchatter — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:00:00 +0000

My Style - Milliner Laura Cole

thelondonchatter — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 10:23:00 +0000

In the New Year British retailer Hobbs will launch the Hobbs Invitation, a collection dedicated to occasion-wear. Featuring couture-inspired cocktail gowns that have a ‘touch of silver screen nostalgia’, shoes, and accessories (from £69.00) which excitingly will include three beautifully handcrafted head pieces designed by Laura Cole (below.)

Laura Cole is a London-based milliner, and author of ‘Mostly Millinery,’ and designs hats that I think are particularly similar to the lady herself; stylish, quirky and quintessentially British. Earlier this year, around the same time Laura was busy designing hats for several Royal Wedding guests, I modelled some of her fabulous creations...

Laura Cole shares with The London Chatter some of her fashionable loves and style tips...

My Style In 3 Little Words – Black, Collars and Jewels.

This Season Every Gal Needs – A fab hat!

My British Fashion Icons – Both my Grandmothers (and although not British, the amazing Marchesa Luisa Casati.)

My Favourite Highstreet Store – Oxfam on Marylebone High Street.

My Favourite Boutique – Lassco in Vauxhall for antiques. You never know what you'll find in there - anything from stocking moulds to beautiful door knobs - plus, there is a great cafe.

My Favourite British Designer – Helen Bullock: One To Watch.

At Gunpoint; Bags OR Shoes – Errrrm… Hats!

My First Fashionista Memory – Interning at Alexander McQueen and having a conversation with Andre Leon Talley about hand embroidery (he was wearing his trademark floor length fur coat... It was very surreal.)

My Saturday Night Outfit – My trusty old favorite Charles Anastaste dress; long sleeves and black velvet with devore Skeletons: not just for Halloween!

My Sunday Brunch Outfit – Any short shift, tights and plimsolls.

OMG I Can’t Believe I Wore – My 90's staples: Green checked lumberjack shirt with a red polo neck, teamed with green jeans… It had its moments…

Forget My Last Meal, My Last Outfit Would Be – Anything Lacroix... Sweetie... Lacroix!

My Style Tip – Add a hat!

Above: Laura's wedding, to artist Robert Nicol, was SO perfect and SO Laura...

Contact: lauramcole@hotmail.com

Tephi Christmas Sale

thelondonchatter — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 11:24:00 +0000

I have recently heard a lot about the beautiful dresses available from Tephi, a label started in 2009, by London based designer Chessie Grievson.

Tephi dresses (from £250-£500) are romantic, elegant and timeless - and all the pieces are named after friends of Chessie's - I particularly love the 'Pheobe' (right.) The gorgeous collection can either be bought straight off the rail at their studio or, uniquely, can be tailored exactly to your tastes with their bespoke service, "it's about offering high fashion in an intimate setting where women can come and look at the product, chat about designs, and leave with a creation that is exactly to their satisfaction."

The Tephi Christmas Sale starts today...

Musical Moment: Florrie ('Begging Me')

thelondonchatter — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 07:58:40 +0000

Florrie (Florence Arnold) is a 22 year old singer/songwriter/drummer originally from Bristol, who despite her increasing popularity and offers from major music labels, continues to release music under her own label, making sure she maintains complete creative control.

Florrie describes her music as “a big mixture: kind of a sixties, organic feel merged with modern pop beats and electronics.” Indeed, contemporary French disco legend Fred Falke has been an instrumental force in defining Florrie’s sound.

I love her – and her song ‘Begging Me’ is my favourite so far (available on iTunes.)

Also a firm fashion favourite, Florrie recently became the face of Nina Ricci’s L’Elixir perfume and her version of Blondie’s Sunday Girl accompanies the TV commercial…

www.florrie.com

Isabel Marant for Gap Red

thelondonchatter — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:51:00 +0000

To mark World Aids Day on Dec 1st, Parisian designer Isabel Marant has teamed up with Gap Red to help raise awareness. With every sale of the limited-edition slouchy t’shirts, 50% of what you hand over will be donated to the Global Fund to help eliminate AIDS in Africa. Marant said, "this is one of those rare occasions when fashion can do something to help make the world a slightly better place.”

So far the Gap Red programme has raised over £109 million for The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

The T’shirts will be available in Gap stores from Monday 28th November.

A Logical Explanation

thelondonchatter — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 10:32:00 +0000

Hattie Rickards Jewellery - Geo Launch

thelondonchatter — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:32:00 +0000

Last week I went to the Electric for the launch of London jeweller Hattie Rickards’ second collection, entitled Geo.

After graduating from Central St Martins, Hattie went on to work for jewellery designers Solange Azagury Partridge and Kara Ross, before designing a collection for MADE and then starting up Hattie Rickards Jewellery.

The luxury jewellery is all fairtrade and fairmined - Hattie insists on full traceability for the gold and gems she uses for her designs - blending “aesthetics with a story and knowledge of origin.” Fans of her jewellery include Livia Firth and Poppy Delevigne.

I particularly loved the range of rings in the Geo collection (below, starting from £2000)

Top Left: Flip Octo Ring with Stones

Bottom Left: Flip Octo Ring with Enamel

Middle: Rubix II

Right: Eternal Ring Multi

Winter Wonderland

thelondonchatter — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:20:00 +0000

Last Thursday I went a walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland for the preview night and in support of Too Many Women. Having fundraised for Too Many Women earlier this year (see here) my girlfriends and I were more than happy to support this wonderful campaign again in reaching their target of £1 million towards breast cancer awareness.

It is impossible not to immerse yourself in the festive spirit; There are fun-fair rides, a Grotto, a big top circus, ice-skating, Christmas markets and lots... and lots... of mulled wine.

There are several new, bigger and scarier rides this year – all of which I stayed well away from having been left in tears after my first/last ever roller coaster last year... not a great look when the reason you got on the damn thing in the first place was to impress a boy... Note to self: hyperventilating = not that pretty.

If only my sister had also stayed on the ground manning the mulled wine with me last week – her ride was actually halted mid way to allow her to get off… SO funny!!

Open until Jan 3rd and entry is free. Tokens for the rides can be purchased there. Tickets for the ice-skating, Zippo’s Circus and Observation Wheel can be purchase online here.

Temperley Tea Party

thelondonchatter — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Having just released her first book, announced a new collaboration with Filofax and won the prestigious Designer of the Year at the 2011 Hollywood Style Awards, you’d forgive Alice Temperley for needing to sit down and have a relaxing cuppa… But in true Mad Hatter style the acclaimed British designer has invited everyone to join her.

Tomorrow there will be a tea party at their Colville Mews Boutique to launch Temperley's two week exhibition of Alice's hand selected archive along with a retrospective of vintage Temperley treasures available to buy…

Milk, one sugar and something sparkly please!

Best Of London - Amelia Warner (Slow Moving Millie)

thelondonchatter — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 10:30:00 +0000

This year’s Christmas John Lewis advert (below) is a real tear-jerker - guaranteed to tug at even the toughest of heartstrings. The commercial shows an impatient little boy anxiously waiting for Christmas Day to arrive - but not, as you first assume, in eager anticipation to open his own presents, but because he is desperate to give his parents a gift.

The track which accompanies this advert is a cover of The Smith’s ‘Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want,’ sung by emerging artist Slow Moving Millie (left) who I previously wrote about here.

Slow Moving Millie, the beeeeautiful actress and songstress Amelia Warner, has recently finished recording ‘Renditions,’ an album of songs from the 1980’s, including covers of hits by Tears for Fears, Thompson Twins, Bananarama, Yazoo and Frankie Goes to Hollywood. By stripping these songs from their manic 1980's rifts and crazy hair, what remains are "really poignant songs, and they're all about having your heart broken."

Amelia, currently living in West London with her boyfriend, took some time to share with us her London favourites;

Cocktail – I’m not a huge fan of the cocktail, so it would have to be a pint of Guinness at The Coach And Horses in Soho with some lovely friends.

Date night - Spaghetti pomodoro, red wine and candlelight at The Ripe Tomato on All Saints Road with my love.

Brunch - At home with the papers, Bloody Mary's and my friend Markus' home fries!

Boutique - Labour Of Love on Upper Street – I always find something one off and odd.

High St – It would have to be Topshop, although I am also loving COS.

Secret Place - Cork and Bottle, a very old fashioned wine bar hidden and tucked away under the craziness of Leicester Sq - Perfect for a late dinner.

London Icon - Tracey Emin for her humour, honesty, style and complete Britishness!

The single 'Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want’ is available as a single now on iTunes and Amazon.

The album 'Rendtions' is released on December 12th.

Slow Moving Millie's MySpace.

Paws For Thought

thelondonchatter — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000

"It is the things in common that make relationships enjoyable, but it is the little differences that make them interesting."   Todd Ruthman

Credit Buy - Mulberry's Evelina Hobo

thelondonchatter — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:44:00 +0000

Move over Alexa, Lily, Daria, Taylor, Bella, Holly, Rosie and Tillie - There's a new gorgeous Mulbabe on the scene - Evelina.

This new–season, slouchy and laid back style handbag features luxe gold hardware and a detachable shoulder strap.

Above: Camel Leopard Print Hobo RRP. £2000
Left: Fudge Glossy Buffalo Hobo RRP. £795

Love her forevelina.

Movie Moment: 'My Week with Marilyn'

thelondonchatter — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 10:00:00 +0000

In the early summer of 1956, 23 year-old Colin Clark, a movie enthusiast worked as an assistant on the set of 'The Prince and the Showgirl', the film that famously, and turbulently, united Sir Laurence Olivier and Marilyn Monroe. Olivier had hoped this collaboration would help him become a Hollywood movie star, and Marilyn hoped to become taken seriously as an actress.

An insight into a vanished era of filmmaking and the clash that ensued between the two actors was well documented nearly 40 years later in Colin’s diary account, ‘The Prince, the Showgirl and Me,’ but its author purposefully omitted one week’s production... This missing chapter was eventually published some years later as ‘My Week with Marilyn,’ and this film chronicles Colin's life changing week and near affair with the star.

Released on November 25th, the film stars Eddie Redmayne, Kenneth Branagh, Judi Dench, Julia Ormond and Emma Watson - but its main attraction is undeniably Michelle Williams, who according to Vogue ‘brings Monroe to life with heartbreaking delicacy and precision without resorting to impersonation or cliché.’

Below: The trailer for 'My Week with Marilyn'

Michelle spent six months immersing herself in all things Marilyn Monroe; reading biographies, diaries, letters, poems, and notes, studying photographs, listening to recordings and watching her movies. Michelle also trained hard to transform her usually gamine body to achieve that infamous Marilyn wiggle...

Below: The original trailer for 'The Prince and The Showgirl'

Annie Leibovitz shot a stunning set of Marilyn Monroe inspired photographs of Oscar-nominee Michelle Williams for the October issue of US Vogue.

Styled by Tonne Goodman, Michelle wore a retro wardrobe from Donna Karan, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and J. Crew.

The actress revealed, “as soon as I finished the script, I knew that I wanted to do it, and then I spent six months trying to talk myself out of it... But I always knew that I never really had a choice... I’ve started to believe that you get the piece of material that you were ready for.”

“I wish that I could play her for the rest of my life...”

Gwyneth Paltrow Loving The London Look

thelondonchatter — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:34:00 +0000

I am a big fan of Gwyneth Paltrow – of her acting and of her towering high heel collection – and now I hear that Gwyneth Paltrow is a big fan of the London look.

Having lived in London for the last nine years Gwyneth recently revealed in an interview that she has “always felt that London is the capital of the style and street style… You see it filtered down into other cities later on, but I think the girls here dress so well, and there's always a twist or a little quirky thing...   I always think I would never put that together, but when you see it on the girl you think wow - that's really clever."

I like her even more now, and after seeing her play the Holly Holiday, the kooky substitute teacher in Glee, I actually didn’t think this was possible...

Armistice Day

thelondonchatter — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 10:45:00 +0000

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

We will remember them.

The Poppy Appeal

Del'Aziz - Vanston Place

thelondonchatter — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 11:38:00 +0000

I regularly go to Del’Aziz. A delicatessen, bakery and café set in the middle of Fulham Broadway’s bustling Vanston Place, Del'Aziz is a veritable treasure trove of foodie delights.

Surrounded by a plethora of pastries, Turkish Delights and over-sized meringues you cosily settle down at chunky wooden tables adorned with fresh flowers (and shisha pipes upon request.) The service is slow at times but the delicious menu offers a diverse collection of tantalizing dishes from the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean – but for me, it is all about the chocolate gateaux…

A boyfriend once bought me a huge slice of this cake as an apology – clever move – everyone knows a girl is faaar more likely to be forgiving after chocolate...

"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt" - Charles M. Schulz.

The Designer Pudsey Collection

thelondonchatter — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 10:35:00 +0000

The iconic, yellow Pudsey Bear has been given a fashion makeover from 12 of Britain’s designers for Children In Need.

The little furry mascot has been transformed by Giles Deacon, Emma Hill, Jonathan Saunders, Erdem, Henry Holland, PPQ, Liberty, Patrick Grant and Kate Hillier using an array of different fabrics and patterns to create one off bears which will each be auctioned on ebay, helping to raise money for disadvantaged children within the UK.

How cute is this Pudsey on the left?! Designed by Mulberry’s Creative Director, Emma Hill, this bear was hand made in their Somerset factory in the finest Mulberry leather, “He comes in the same Soft Buffalo leather we use for our Alexa bag and his colour is classic Oak with Chocolate paws and mouth - two of the most iconic Mulberry colours!”

The bears are on display at Liberty London and will be there until November 19th.

For more information and links to auction pages click here.

Credit Buy - Audrey's 'Lucky Dress'

thelondonchatter — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 21:18:00 +0000

The ivory lace gown Audrey Hepburn called her ‘lucky dress’ is up for auction. Worn in the last scene on ‘Roman Holiday’ in 1952, the dress was worn once again by Audrey to collect her Best Actress Oscar for the same film.

The auction will take place on Tuesday November 29 at 2pm at La Galleria.

The estimated auction price is between £40,000 - £60,000.

The First Actresses - Nell Gwyn to Sarah Siddons

thelondonchatter — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:49:00 +0000

I recently went to see ‘The First Actresses - Nell Gwyn to Sarah Siddons’ at The National Portrait Gallery, where more than 50 portraits of actresses take centre stage in a vivid spectacle of femininity, fashion and theatricality in seventeenth and eighteenth-century Britain.

Women were first permitted to perform on the English stage in the early 1660’s, after the restoration of Charles II, and this exhibition reveals the many ways in which these notorious, glamorous performers became early celebrities and fashion icons, shrewdly using portraiture to enhance their reputations, deflect scandal and increase their popularity.

Portraits of everyone's favourite Restoration pin up girl, the ‘pretty witty’ Nell Gwyn (with her varying, revealing ‘wardrobe malfunctions’ on display - above, both by Simon Verelst) alongside Moll Davis, Kitty Clive, Hester Booth, Lavinia Fenton, Elizabeth Linley, Sarah Siddons, Mary Robinson and Dorothy Jordan are exhibited.

What makes this exhibition really fascinating is the focus on the social history of the time and the biographies of the ladies which really does keep your interest from the first painting through to the last. With some early actresses becoming mistresses of Kings and aristocrats and with Covent Garden being just as famous for its brothels as it was for its theatres, the struggle which these women were up against was profound and you really leave admiring these theatrical pioneers.

Touchingly, to complement this exhibition, in a nearby exhibition entitled ‘The Actress Now’ displays a cacophony of portraits featuring contemporary actresses, ranging from Dame Judi Dench to Helena Bonham Carter (left, by Trevor Leighton) and Keira Knightley, who all owe a great debt to their predecessors in the next-door room.

Exhibition on at The National Portrait Gallery
until 8 January 2012

Murmuration

thelondonchatter — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:32:00 +0000

A murmuration, one of the most magical, yet underrated, wildlife spectacles on display in winter, is a swirling cloud-like formation of starlings flying together. With each bird flying as close to its neighbour as possible, copying any change in speed and direction, the birds create a vast, impenetrable, rippling mass that is completely magnificent to watch.

Sophie Windsor Clive and her friend recently captured this beautiful phenomenon while canoeing across the River Shannon in Ireland... Wow! Its awesome!

Movember

thelondonchatter — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:49:00 +0000

In 2011, more than 240,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Thousands of men worldwide will this Movember, the month formerly known as November, lay down their razors and embrace a ‘tache to raise both funds and awareness for men’s health.

So boys, become a Mo Bro by registering here and start getting fuzzy… But will you go for The Chaplin, The Sigmund or The Borat? I obviously would recommend The Gosling...

La Petite Mort Halloween Banquet

thelondonchatter — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:57:00 +0000

Last week I was invited to Petersham House for ‘La Petite Mort,’ on the first of three nights of Halloween banquets organized by The Old Vic Tunnels and the newly established Petersham Playhouse. It was a spookily special night out…

I was met by a 12ft stilt walking girly ghoul, carved pumpkins, flame throwing and tarot card reading followed by fantastic performances from Les Enfant Terribles. The fantastic troop of actors frighteningly interacted with their anxious audiences in the dimly, chandelier lit rooms around Petersham House (opened for us to explore at our own peril.) I screached when a meat hacking, psychotic crazy, in blood soaked bandages, jumped out at me from a cellar wielding an axe...

Luckily, a deliciously decadent feast by Petersham Nurseries Michelin Star Chef Skye Gyngell soon calmed me down (wouldn’t everyone find rice pudding covered in drops of blood-red, raspberry compote relaxing?!)

Dancing with my fellow revellers to music by Tankus The Heng followed and I found myself at one point, toffee apple in hand, bopping along with an extremely dapper baboon in a velvet jacket, vintage fur stole and top hat… Hell-a fun night!

Happy Halloween

thelondonchatter — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:24:00 +0000

Above: Being wicked witches with Jessica at the Annabel's Halloween Party last night...

A McQueen Scream

thelondonchatter — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 10:40:00 +0000

This is the elegant, and haunting, short film, created by Paris-based director/photographer Babetter Pauthier, featuring Alexander McQueen’s Autumn/Winter 2011 seasonal scarf collection. Advertising the iconic McQueen Skull, there has never been a more opportune day to invest and wrap up in one of these scarves... Happy HalloMcQueen...

From £325.00

Fashion Jumble Sale for Coral Conservation

thelondonchatter — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 10:35:00 +0000

The fashion cupboards from around London are opening their doors and offering their designer wares in aid of Coral Conservation. This is UNMISSABLE! See you there tomorrow!

Below: Sophia Rogge: Fashionista and Coral Conservationist

The F Word: Famine is the Real Obscenity

thelondonchatter — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:26:00 +0000

The famine in East Africa has reached desperate heights.

30,000 children have died in just over 3 months.

12 million people are at further risk.

Please watch ONE’s new video below, ‘The F Word: Famine is the Real Obscenity’ which features, amongst others, George Clooney, Bono, Colin Farrell and Bill Nighy, and then sign THIS PETITION putting pressure on the world’s leaders at the upcoming G20 summit in November to focus their attention on this famine and food crisis.

Credit Buy - Miu Miu Shooboots

thelondonchatter — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 10:27:00 +0000

As you may have noticed by now, I am a bit of a magpie when it comes to glittery shoes… They have an extreme magical power over me; no challenge or obstacle in the world seems unconquerable when I have twinkly toes.

Alexa Chung (right) Zooey Deschanel and Diane Kruger are amongst the many fashionistas who have recently been spotted wearing these Miu Miu’s A/W’11 shooboots.
(RRP. £555.00)

Luckily for us, the highstreet also has a range of sparkly
boot-iliciousness this season… So lets all click our heels three times, “there’s no place like… Topshop...”

ASTRID SUEDE GLITTER BOOTS
RRP. £80.00

ASTRID SUEDE GLITTER BOOTS
RRP. £80.00

AMETHYST MULTI GLITTER BOOTS
RRP. £70.00

AMBUSH GLITTER ANKLE BOOTS
RRP. £80.00

Hello?...

thelondonchatter — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:03:00 +0000

Versace Hits the Highstreet

thelondonchatter — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:47:00 +0000

After H&M’s successful designer collaborations in the past (Stella McCartney, Lanvin, Jimmy Choo, Matthew Williamson…) I was excited to see the pictures emerge last week of Versace’s forthcoming range for the clothing giant.

I can honestly say there is not one single thing in the entire gaudy range I would wear... And then there is the men's collection which I am honestly surprised is being released on November 17th and not in time for Halloween...

It appears that when it comes to Versace lust, I'd save your pennies for the real thang.

A Very InStyle Miss Piggy

thelondonchatter — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:07:00 +0000

This little piggy went to Jason Wu, this little piggy went to Giles Deacon and this little piggy ran aaaaall the way home... in her Brian Atwood heels.

In the lead up to the release of her new film, ‘The Muppets,’ Miss Piggy has had a fierce, high fashion makeover in American InStyle’s November issue. Wearing custom pieces designed by six hot designers including Jason Wu, Prabal Gurung, Opening Ceremony, Suno, Brian Atwood and Giles & Brother, Miss Piggy looks Hot to Trot...

“Style is about expressing your inner self, capturing your personal ethos, and, most importantly, spending someone else’s money…” said Miss Piggy.

Better start saving up Kerrrrrmieeeeee....

Above: Wearing Prabal Gurung, “I didn’t want to dress Miss Piggy in anything that would take away from her bold personality so I went with a simple, classic dress and neutral colour.”

Above: Wearing Jason Wu, “Her humor, flamboyance and joie de vivre inspired me to design a decadent feathered dress that features her most sensational qualities.”

Movie Moment - Romeo and Juliet

thelondonchatter — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:00:00 +0000

'A glooming peace this morning with it brings. The sun for sorrow will not show his head.
Go hence and have more talk of these sad things. Some shall be pardoned, and some punished. For never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo...'

Sample Sale - La Perla

thelondonchatter — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:30:00 +0000

Today 10am - 6.30pm

Up to 70% off La Perla lingerie, swimwear and nightwear

Hornvale, 22 Newman Street, London, W1T 1PH

Best Of London - Jack Savoretti

thelondonchatter — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:38:00 +0000

Jack Savoretti: 50% English, 50% Italian, 100% Talent.
Jack’s wistfully romantic, often melancholic, songwriting has been compared to that of Simon & Garfunkel with some music industry insiders calling him the new Bob Dylan.

Being great friends with his sister Beatrice, I first met Jack when he was a scruffy 15-year-old poet… Since then, I have stood witness to his evolution into the husky, dreamy (and still pretty scruffy) acoustic singer/songwriter that he is today.

I love attending a Jack Savoretti gig – you cannot help but be totally charmed by his voice, music and bohemian cool. Need anymore convincing? Head to London’s Relentless Garage tomorrow night to see Jack perform - details below.

Currently living in West London with his beautiful wife Jemma and their one-month-old baby girl, Jack shares with us some of his London favourites…

My Pint – At The Cock and Bottle with a few good friends.

My Date Night – At home with my girls -The perfect night.

My Sunday Brunch – I like to go to The Crown, 30 minutes outside of London in the village of Bray, for the perfect Sunday Bloody Mary.

My Building – The house on Fosket Road where I grew up.

My Shop – I like to walk into Portobello Road’s Rough Trade and ask for really un-cool music and watch them all get worked up... They take being cool very seriously in there...

My London Extravagance – Daily life in general seems to knock the change out of my pockets in this town...

London's Best Kept Secret – A little Italian restaurant called Ida... Unlike most Italian restaurants outside of Italy, this one is the real deal.

My London Icon (Past or Present) – All the Black Cabbies that get you fired up before a night out, reassure you at the end of the night, and welcome you home after a long trip.

Below: Aloe Blacc's 'I Need A Dollar' performed by Jack Savoretti, We Were Evergreen and Sophie Delila who are all performing at London's Relentless Garage tomorrow night.

Click here for tickets for tomorrow’s gig - only a few left – Quickity Quick!!

www.jacksavoretti.com

What Every Office Needs...

thelondonchatter — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 07:06:00 +0000

Frieze Art Fair 2011

thelondonchatter — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:03:00 +0000

Regents Park saw the annual return of the Frieze Art Fair last week and when my friend asked me to go with her I leapt at the chance. I have always, for one reason of another, missed out on going so I had no idea what to expect…

When I arrived I found a huge showcase of commissioned art and design to explore from over 170 different contemporary galleries… Curated by Sarah McCrory, a massive, eclectic collection of eye-catching paintings, sketches, prints, sculpture and photography are displayed along several very long aisles (I wiiiish I’d worn trainers!!)

Right: Tracey Emin's 'And I Said I Love You!'

Here are some of the pieces which caught my eye:

Above: This amazingly dressed lady was unsurprisingly drawn to the chandelier of neon, multi-coloured bodies... How brilliant?!

Above: Jung Lee’s sculpture ‘Aporia’

Above L-R: Jim Lambe, Untitled and Dominique Gonzalez-Foerster's 'After'

Above L-R: Barnaby Hosking's 'Thoughts' and David Shrigley's 'Untitled (This is Nothing)'

Above L-R: Dawn Mellor's 'Kristen Scott Thomas' and Cornelia Parker's '30 Pieces of Silver'

Above: Sculpture by Tara Donovan

Above: Tracey Emin's 'You Made ME LOVE You'

'Thought Of You' - Animated short by Ryan Woodward (music by The Weepies)

thelondonchatter — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 11:10:00 +0000

Kate Moss - Beauty Secrets

thelondonchatter — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:30:00 +0000

In the lead up to the launch of her lipstick collection for Rimmel, super stylish supermodel Kate Moss shared some of her beauty secrets in an interview with The Sunday Times:

1. Red lipstick - "It's the ultimate shade. I wouldn't wear it during the day, but at night, or if it's a do, then it's good. Lipstick is the classic, iconic make-up, isn't it? You think of Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly, and it's always about the lips

2. Nude lips with smudgy eyes – for daytime.

3. Kohl pencil eyeliner – “I always use a kohl pencil as it's easier to manage. You can get really good liquid liners now that are easy to use and precise, but if it goes wrong, you still have to start all over again, not like with kohl, when you can smudge it out."  

4. No time for brushes - "Make-up artists do that, but I wouldn't do it on myself. I don't use a lip liner or a lip brush: I just shove it on." 

5. Blusher - "I can feel when I need it. I use a powder and then a cream blush over the top to get a bit of a glow."

6. No to lipgloss - "I've got a thing about sticky - it can't be sticky. [It's] from doing too many shoots when they get the wind machine out and my hair sticks to me. I get the fear."  

7. Eyelash curlers - "I don't feel complete without them, it's one of those things. [The secret to a false last look is] curling and then tons and tons and tons of mascara."  

8. Factor 50 - "I was a real sun-worshipper - I loved it, boiling and lying out there. But now I don't do that… Now I have factor 50 - I had never put on factor 50 in my life!" 

And now a sneaky peak inside Kate’s Washbag...

* PENHALIGONS BLUEBELL EAU DE TOILETTE (50MLS) RRP £58.00
* JELLY PONG PONG JELLY FLUSH RRP £12.00
* RIMMEL LONDON SOFT KOHL IN JET BLACK RRP £2.99
* RIMMEL GLAM'EYES RRP £7.19
* CREME DE LA MER MOISTURISING CREAM RRP £95.00
* DERMALOGICA OVERNIGHT CLEARING GEL RRP £28.90
* BOOTS EXPERT BABY SENSITIVE WIPES RRP £2.03
* JO WOOD TULA EXFOLIATING SALT SCRUB RRP £24.00
* PHILOSOPHY KISS ME RRP £10.00
* KIEHL'S CREME DE CORPS BODY LOTION RRP £27.00
* JAMES BROWN HAIR REVIVING DRY SHAMPOO RRP £7.14
* NARS BODY GLOW RRP £44.00
* CLARINS BLUE ORCHID FACE TREATMENT OIL RRP £33.00
* DR HAUSCHKA ROSE DAY CREAM RRP £23.95
* LAURA MERCIER UNDERCOVER CONCEALER NO4 RRP £26.00
* ELIZABETH ARDEN 8 HOUR CREAM RRP £25.00
* CLINIQUE ALMOST LIPSTICK IN BLACK HONEY RRP £16.00
* SHU UEMURA EYELASH CURLERS RRP £20.00.

The Minotaur at The Old Vic Tunnels

thelondonchatter — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:30:00 +0000

On Monday night I went to the Old Vic Tunnels for the opening night of 'The Minotaur' - a unique collaboration of theatre, visual art, film and food to coincide with both the Frieze Art Fair and the London Restaurant Festival.

The Lazarides Galleries, the influential group who represent emerging international artists who defy convention, have collaborated with Kofler & Kompanie (the pioneers of PRET A DINER, Europe's most celebrated pop up restaurant) to transform the Old Vic Tunnels into an alternative cultural space featuring a labyrinth gallery of cutting-edge artwork and film alongside creative cuisine from Michelin-starred chefs.

The exhibition takes inspiration from the ancient Greek legend of 'The Minotaur' and Steve Lazarides commissioned several exciting and innovative artists to each create their own interpretation of the classical myth. Highlights of the exhibition included art and installations by Robert del Naja “3D” (from Massive Attack), David Choe (who was commissioned by Mark Zuckerberg last year to paint the new Facebook offices) Conor Harrington, Antony Micallef, and Jonathan Yeo.

Art aside, what also really excited and amazed me was the venue itself. The vast, maze-like Old Vic Tunnels, hidden beneath the deepest, darkest depths of Waterloo Station, is the most unique and atmospheric venue I have seen in a very long time. Acquired by The Old Vic in 2010 the mystical, dimly lit, arches have since been used for a plethora of art, music and theatre events.

Tickets to 'The Minotaur' exhibition: £5.
A three course meal at PRET A DINER including entrance to the exhibition: £75.

Showing until the 25th of October.

Happy Birthday Jack Savoretti

thelondonchatter — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 11:30:00 +0000

Last night we celebrated singer songwriter Jack Savoretti’s birthday in the best possible way; a small, intimate gig filled with friends and family at Soho House.

With a 3 week old baby daughter newly on the scene, the rather sleep deprived Jack Savoretti proved to be a real rock’n’roll Daddy by still, effortlessly, providing his audience with an enthralling mixture of his older, emotive ballads followed by his latest, more bluesy, foot tappin’ songs.

Below: ‘Come Shine A Light On Me’ - One of my favourite songs by Jack and I love this montage video created by Maria Armengou. (Look out for Jack’s beautiful wife Jemma.)

Happy Birthday Papa Sav! xx

The National English Ballet Theatre

thelondonchatter — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 11:01:00 +0000

Note to self: Never stand next to ballerinas… You will feel like an Oompa Loompa...

Last week I attended a fundraiser in aid of the New English Ballet Theatre held at BAFTA. The dinner and auction were followed by an elegant performance by some of the 16 beautifully costumed dancers who have already joined the company.

NEBT was founded by choreographer and artistic director Karen Pilkington Miksa in the wake of huge cuts in funding for the arts in the UK. This ambitious venture will help to nurture and promote the careers of young, highly trained ballerinas whilst bringing brand new and exciting works to the stage.

Above: Joining in, putting my best sparkly ballet foot forward...

To donate to the company, or even ‘adopt’ a ballerina please go to the NEBT Just Giving page.

Sienna Miller's East African Mission

thelondonchatter — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 10:30:00 +0000

Last month actress Sienna Miller visited the Dolo Ado camps in eastern Ethiopia in her role as global ambassador for the International Medical Corps.

After overseeing their emergency nutrition programmes and meeting many of those gravely affected by the severe drought and famine, Sienna is now calling for greater attention to the current humanitarian crisis in East Africa, “Without immediate humanitarian intervention, more than 390,000 children are at risk of starvation.”

In some areas of Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia, a child is dying every six minutes and support is urgently needed to help the millions of people facing starvation in the already strained refugee camps.

For more information about this urgent appeal please go to the International Medical Corps website - you could, by donating some much needed money, help them deliver lifesaving nutrition and other basic supplies.

Celina Teague: 'My Bunny is Full of Teeth and Other Stories' Exhibition

thelondonchatter — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:39:00 +0000

Above: Under Worship

Above: Artist Celina Teague by The Hollow Couple

On Tuesday night I went to the preview of 'My Bunny is Full of Teeth and Other Stories' - the latest exhibition by artist Celina Teague.

The title of the show was inspired by Celina's unruly pet bunny rabbit, Gretel, who made a surprise appearance on the night! (left)

It is always very exciting to see Celina's work exhibited and this show certainly did not disappoint – the paintings, and several drawings, together are a powerful force – incredibly bright and hugely charismatic. One can become completely absorbed in the detail of her work (where often the most fun is discovered!)

Above: By The Rape of the Honeybee

Above: Marina Fogel, Michou von Beschwitz, Marcus Waley-Cohen, Baldassare La Rizza, Sinead Murtagh, Fiona McGlinchey, Celina Teague, Shirley Leigh-Wood Oakes

Above: Simon Ambrose, Awsa Bergstrom, Emily Marr, Alex Roupell, Anthony Nathan, Charlie Beamish, James French, Vanessa Story, Olivia Hunt, Orlando and Emma Seale.

'My Bunny is Full Of Teeth and Other Stories' is showing until Sunday 9th Oct at The ROA Gallery.

www.celinateague.com

George Harrison: Living In The Material World

thelondonchatter — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:45:00 +0000

“George himself is no mystery. But the mystery inside George is immense. It’s watching him uncover it all little by little that’s so damn interesting.” John Lennon.

Last Sunday I happily declined a day lying in the sunshine to attend the World Premiere of ‘George Harrison: Living in the Material World,’ a documentary feature by Martin Scorsese.

Above: At the premiere and with Dhani Harrison.

The Beatles, amongst some other beyond famous figures, have all become such icons of our time that it is sometimes hard to remember them as individuals and real people underneath all the colourful memorabilia.

Taking 5 years to make and lasting a whopping 3.5 hours (split into 2 parts!) this film is full of never seen before footage, intimate interviews from George's wife Olivia, son Dhani and many of his nearest and dearest’s including Eric Clapton, Klaus Voorman, Ray Cooper and Tom Petty. This film really delves into who George was, beneath all the fame and the hysteria surrounding him – and he was a fascinating character.

Before the film commenced Martin Scorsese recognized how this audience was to be a most “difficult crowd” as so many of the people sat in the cinema at the British Film Institute that night had actually lived George’s story alongside him…

Indeed, looking around me I was sat amongst Yoko Ono, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Eric Idle, Pattie Boyd, Jackie Stewart and Terry Gillam… to name but a few! This took the viewing of this film to another level – it was profoundly emotional and real.

Part One focuses on George Harrison's humble beginnings in Liverpool, the creation, and the subsequent dizzying success, of The Beatles, his drugs, his love triangle with Pattie Boyd and Eric Clapton, his spiritual awakening, trips to India, his relationship with Ravi Shankar, his meditation and The Beatles' eventual dissolution in 1970.

Part Two concentrates on George Harrison's career as a solo artist, movie impresario, philanthropist and father. The highlights in this part were The Bangladesh Concert (the first major rock concert to address a world crises) the financing of The Life Of Brian and launching of Handmade Films (a key factor in the revival of the British film industry in the 1980’s), the formation of The Travelling Wilburys, George's commitment to restoring one of the most beautiful gardens and estates in England (his serene retreat, and home, Friar Park) his cancer and his endless quest to understand his faith and preparation towards leaving his human body.

As well as being an amazing guitarist and songwriter (credits which include ‘Taxman,’ ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps,’ ‘Here Comes The Sun,’ ‘My Sweet Lord’ and my favourite, ‘Something’) George Harrison also helped in bringing Indian music, culture and religion to the West. He was a well-loved, very private, complex individual with a great sense of humour and many close, wonderful friends - I especially enjoyed his rapport with Ringo (who's interviews are amongst the most touching.)

I must say, the beautiful Olivia Harrison’s interviews were completely captivating; at one point the audience cheered her response to being asked what the secret to a long marriage was… “You don’t get divorced!”

There was a true sense of loss as I left the theatre – in those people that had known and loved George, but also in those that hadn’t and felt they'd truly missed out as a consequence.

Above: Dhani and Olivia Harrison

"People say I'm the Beatle who changed the most, but really that's what I see life's about."

'George Harrison: Living In The Material World’ will be available on DVD Oct 10th

My Style - Presenter Louise Roe

thelondonchatter — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 08:39:00 +0000

Louise Roe: Television presenter, fashion journalist, stylist, shoe fanatic...

Having first graced our screens as a glossy cast member on MTV’s The City, Louise Roe fast and fabulously became a regular face on all the most glamourous of red carpets interviewing Hollywood's finest. Covering the recent MTV Movie Awards, VMA’s and EMA’s, co-hosting E!’s live coverage of the Royal Wedding, Louise also presents the MTV reality makeover show ‘Plain Jane,’ where she transforms women, inside and out, with the help of a new wardrobe and confidence-building exercises, in order to surprise their secret crushes.

Alongside her presenting, Louise has designed a range of shoes and jewellery for StylistPick.com, fronted several campaigns over the last few years (stylish and hot – her legs are endless…) and she has somehow managed to find the time to share her fashion wisdom and advice in Elle, Vogue.com, In Style, Glamour, Cosmopolitan… and now with us at The London Chatter!

My Style In 3 Little Words – Bright, 70's, Heels!

This Season Every Gal Needs – Something orange.

My British Fashion Icons (Past & Present) – Princess Diana & Carey Mulligan.

My Favourite Highstreet Store – Jaeger.

My Favourite Boutique – Diptyque.

My Favourite British Designer – Giles Deacon.

At Gunpoint; Bags OR Shoes – Shoes!

My First Fashionista Memory – During my first fashion week while working for Elle, I went backstage at Giles Deacon and interviewed Linda Evangelista.

My Saturday Night Outfit – Leather jeggings from M&S and a burnt orange blazer from Zara.

My Sunday Brunch Outfit – A loose maxi dress and flat sandals.

OMG I Can’t Believe I Wore – A pink puffball skirt, pink fishnets and pixie boots to my sister's birthday… I was in my early teens.

Forget My Last Meal, My Last Outfit Would Be – Leopard print wedges by Giuseppe Zanotti and perhaps a huge, stunning Marchesa gown…Go out in style!

My Style Tip – Wear something because it fits, not because it's cool.

Above: Lou Does Good Shoe

Series 2 of 'Plain Jane' starts on October 19th at 8pm on MTV

Musical Moment - Orlando Seale and The Swell ('These Streets')

thelondonchatter — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 11:30:00 +0000

For much the same reason that I love ‘Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros,’ I also love ‘Orlando Seale and The Swell’ – because alongside their great music, they all have the best fun together and you just want to get up and be a part of their gang.

Some have called Orlando Seale and The Swell’s music ‘Punk Folk’ and have likened them to ‘having the Arcade Fire in your bedroom.’ Handsome Orlando (right), always beautifully articulate, describes them as “ten friends playing music that swings wildly from the epic to the intimate, the melancholic to the euphoric.”

I love their song ‘These Streets’ (released next month) which you can listen to whilst watching this video Emma Seale, Orlando’s gorgeous wife, filmed recently in Paris. I am sure you will, like me, wish you’d been there to join in with all their “fun, fun, fun!”

“He’s a lucky little ape man, in his silk top hat,
He’s gonna bang his chest if you look at him like that…"

Orlando Seale and The Swell will be playing tonight at 9pm at The Lexington.
www.myspace.com/orlandoseale

Credit Buy - Ducie Maxi Dress

thelondonchatter — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:30:00 +0000

And just when you thought it was safe to get back into your UGGS, along came the Indian Summer we had all been promised but daren’t possibly believe...

A fortnight ago in beautiful Tuscany I wore this cream Ducie Maxi dress – and now I want it in every colour under the sun.

Designer Ducie Keam-George founded her label in 2004 with her husband Dan and initially they sold their dresses from a stall in Portobello Market. Rapidly expanding through word of mouth, these gorgeous dresses are now available online in a selection of stunning colours and styles.

Dressed up or down, this cotton and silk dress with gold buttons is so versatile and hooooopefully, sunshine permitting, I’ll get to wear it again this weekend… Or have I just jinxed everything?!

I’d better keep those UGGS to hand just in case…

Available from Ducie in a range of lots of gorgeous colours...

RRP. £190.00

I Scream

thelondonchatter — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Best Of London - Celina Teague

thelondonchatter — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Below: The Hive

At artist Celina Teague’s last exhibition I overheard one man reveal, "I feel like I’m on acid in the 60’s again…!" Celina’s mesmerising paintings are vibrant, dramatic and seriously hallucinatory – they affront you with their boldness, unsettle you with their absurdity and completely delight you with their passion and colour.

A graduate in Fine Art at Central Saint Martins, Celina also trained at the Universidad de Bellas Artes in Oaxaca, Mexico and has lived in Berlin and Shanghai.
Although still hugely inspired by these countries and their cultures - and always itching to explore the world and its beauty further - it is London where Celina now lives, loves and paints.

Whilst preparing for her second solo show, ‘My Bunny is all Teeth and Other Stories’ which opens next week, Celina shares with us some of her London Favourites….

My transport – Bicycle

My Cocktail – A Bloody Mary at Shoreditch House.

My Date Night – Worryingly at the moment it seems to be Westfield’s! A Snog (frozen yoghurt) and the cinema with my husband Dom.

My Sunday Brunch – In Hyde Park. A stop off at Crussh to pick up a smoothie, then a walk (via Speaker's Corner) to the restaurant on the Serpentine. Alternatively, Saf on the Curtain Road in Shoreditch has the best food in London – and its vegan.

My Boutique – The recenty closed Hoxton Boutique was amazing for original designs and jewellery – luckily, their online boutique will be available in November.

My High Street Store – Waterstones. I always arrange to meet friends outside it - how late they are directly corresponds with the amount of cash left in my bank account.

London’s Best Kept Secret – Speaker's Corner, hardly a secret but this is my favourite place in London - it attracts some of the most weird and wonderful characters. People heckle and boo and throw out insults but it's all done in good humour. Last year my friend Marthe Sophie and I organized a group show there.

My London Icon – Having watched ‘Hugh's Fish Fight’ it is currently Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. He's very charming, very persistent and won't take no for an answer.

Above: The Rape of the Honey Bee

‘My Bunny is all Teeth and Other Stories’ at the Roa Gallery, 4th - 9th October.

Sample Sale - Temperley London

thelondonchatter — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:30:00 +0000

Debit Buy - Hennes Dress

thelondonchatter — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 10:00:00 +0000

I have been asked a few times where the dress I wore to Martha Freud's 'Mixed Messages' Exhibition last week was from... I recently bought this summery, pleated dress with mesh at the top from H&M.

Although available in black (a more obvious choice as we enter Autumn/Winter) I wore this cream version with navy tights and Steve Madden pixi boots - an easy transitional look between seasons (a.k.a - desperately clinging onto the summer!)

RRP. £19.99

Musical Moment - Lana Del Rey ('Blue Jeans')

thelondonchatter — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:41:00 +0000

I have previously written (here) about the perfectly pouty New York singer/songwriter Lana Del Rey (aka Lizzy Grant) and her sultry song ‘Video Games’ which I loved. This is the music video for her next song ‘Blue Jeans’ - once again, the look is eclectic and nostalgic with her voice sounding as arresting as ever.

"I will love you till the end of time....
Promise you'll remember that you're mine."

Both songs will be available to download on October 16th.

Crazy Stupid Love

thelondonchatter — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:36:00 +0000

Steve Carell, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, Marisa Tomei & Kevin Bacon - LOVE.
Ryan Gosling - SUPER LOVE.

Crazy Stupid Love released in the UK today.

Martha Freud - 'Mixed Messages' Exhibition

thelondonchatter — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 09:00:00 +0000

Portrait by Jack Brockway

On Wednesday night I went to the private viewing of Martha Freud’s ‘Mixed Messages’ exhibition at Camley Street Natural Park in conjunction with the London Design Festival and in partnership with the London Wildlife Trust.

After navigating myself through the twists and turns of the park’s path, all sweetly lit by a trail of quirky porcelain tea lights and stopping several times to admire various light and design installations all happily perched amongst their woodland surroundings, I eventually found the gorgeous designer herself – Martha Freud - teeny-tiny and minxy in Vivienne Westwood and Christian Louboutins.

London based Martha, the grand-daughter of Clement, the great-niece of Lucien and the great-great-grand-daughter of Sigmund, studied furniture and product design at Kingston University and has always been inspired by nature - this exhibition is no different; beautiful lights made of porcelain leaves and butterflies and wooden nests made from sustainably sourced branches are amongst the show stopping collection.

There are also really fun handcrafted pigeon hole cabinets with grids of porcelain cups - each cup displaying one word but lighting up for 5-10 seconds creating well known phrases – I could, and did, stare at these for ages.

A glamorous collection of London’s bright and light young things assembled around a bonfire for marshmallows, guitar playing, endless Veuve Clicquot and many bottles of Martha’s favourite tipple – Orangina.

The 'Mixed Messages' Exhibition is open today and tomorrow from 10am-8pm.
Please see Martha's website for further details.

Items from the collection are available as one-offs, limited editions and as commissions.
Please contact info@marthafreud.com for more information.

(L-R) Martha Freud, Caged Butterfly Light, With Jessica Pownall by the Nest Light

(L-R) With Shirley Leigh-Wood Oakes, Leaf Wall Light, Martha Freud in Vivienne Westwood

Alexa Chung for Madewell

thelondonchatter — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:42:00 +0000

Presenter, DJ and fashion muse Alexa Chung’s first collection for Madewell in 2010 was a sell out hit so her second collaboration as guest designer with the American brand this A/W has everyone very excited – especially me.

I love the way Alexa dresses – part nerdy tomboy, part granny, part 5 year old girl – always modest and understated – always very, very cool.

Alexa’s collection was heavily inspired by girls in bands ‘who live their looks,’ and the seventies and nineties.

Shot in Austin, Texas, with an all American road-trip feel to it, looking dreamily beautiful Alexa models the collection herself.

The collection hits stores in the US (and their website for us guys this side of the pond!) today… Mouses at the ready!!

Matthew Williamson's Macaroons

thelondonchatter — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 21:30:00 +0000

After seeing his new SS'12 collection this London Fashion Week have you been left lusting after a little Matthew Williamson of your very own? Fear not - This little taster may satisfy your fashionable cravings... For now!

Celebrating London Fashion Week, Parisian macaroon makers Ladurée have undertaken a stylish collaboration with celebrated British designer Matthew Williamson.

The limited edition box – in Matthew’s iconic kaleidoscopic butterfly design – filled with 8 sumptuous, light-as-a-feather, macaroons are available at Ladurée London branches Harrods, Burlington Arcade and Covent Garden until the 26th September.
RRP. £13.40

I got mine from Harrods yesterday...

Mulberry LFW After Show Party

thelondonchatter — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 10:13:00 +0000

Is it possible to have a pink-lemonade hangover?

9 million people tuned in to watch the return of Downton Abbey on Sunday night… I was not one of them, having received one of Mulberry's inflatable rubber ring invites to their LFW after show party at Claridges.

Following on from their early morning seaside shenanigans, the runway may have been gone but the retro Brighton Pier-esq theme was still out in full force.

There was a mechanical fortune teller (less like BIG’s Zaltar, more like a bodiless, creepy Anna Wintour…) who told me I ‘will be fortunate’ - things had started well! Carousel balloons, pinball and teddy bear grabber machines, slushy margarita’s, mini burgers, fish and chips and ice-cream all had the fabulous fashion crowd in high spirits.

Romola Garai, Fuchsia Sumner and Hayley Atwell were amongst the revelers, as was Twilight’s Kristen Stewart (two times in one day – we must be firm friends by now...?)

Thank you Mulberry!
(And thank you Sky Plus – Downton Abbey tonight!)

Carry On Mulberry - SS'12

thelondonchatter — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 17:16:00 +0000

What's worth getting up suuuper early for on a Sunday?

An ice cream and pink lemonade breakfast?... Kate Moss?... A diddy liddle dog in a yellow Mulberry raincoat?...

ALL of the above?!

Yup… I JUMPED out of bed yesterday morning...

Considering my friends tease me that I often look sponsored by Mulberry (I own several of their beautiful bags... purses... keyrings... and yes, an oyster card holder...) I was thrilled to receive the quirkly ice-cream wafer invitation (above) to their S/S'12 Show at this London Fashion Week.

Once opened the invitation plays vintage ice-cream van music... LOVE!

After my pink lemonade and early morning brain freeze, I stepped inside Claridge’s on Day 3 of LFW. We were immediately greeted by giant ice-cream cones (above) and hundreds of inflatable wild animal carousel balloons (below) filling the whole entrance to the ballroom.

Creative Director of Mulberry Emma Hill (below centre) said this collection was inspired by memories of the Great British summer of the seventies and a Kiss-Me-Quick chic; ‘Donkey rides on the beach, sticks of rock and the glittering lights of the pier.’

We were soon transported back to this era with a retro, classic British seaside vibe (rain macs and all!) The music (including ‘The Sun Has Got His Hat On’) and the bright neon lights around the stage helped envoke a bygone era of British holidays to Blackpool Pier and Brighton Beach leaving us all feeling very 'Carry On Camping' and 'Ooh... I say!'

The models, with their enormous hair (styled by Sam McKnight and coloured with streaks of green – a hint of chlorine perhaps?!) at first elegantly strutted down the catwalk wearing floaty dresses and pleated skirts in a series of soft sherbet and candy floss shades and bright yellows (so far, so sunny...) but this was soon interspersed with more neutral, sandy and fudgey tones with a spectrum of greens through to midnight navy.

A more relaxed and American sports look soon appeared – hooded baseball jackets and running shorts fused together with a good dose of British practicality; superfine thermals and short rain macs - well, one must always be prepared!

A montage of safari, carousal animals was used on much of the collection - zebras, giraffes and leopards all making up the new, pretty 'Plastic Animal' print.

Eventually, inspired by the neon lit piers, a sparkling succession of gem encrusted, glittering dresses led us to the finale - the magpie inside me could barely contain itself.

Last, but CERTAINLY not least, we had the ever swoonsome Mulberry bags! Alongside the Alexa, Bayswater and Lily having been reworked in bright yellow patent, quilted girly pink, lizard print, and rhinestones, we also met the new girls on the block; the Evelina and the Effie.

Above: Posh Pier Girls - Two of my favourite looks in the collection.
(L) The Long Lace Raglan Dress in Pebbled beige Crepe holding the Cookie Lily
(R) the All Over Gem Dress in Pebbled Beige Double Faced Silk holding the Lily with Patchwork Gems

Snapping the FROW Mulbabes from my seat: (L-R) Kate Moss, Kristen Stewart, Romola Garai, Hayley Atwell, Harley Vera Newton and Laura Bailey.

Some well deserved applause for Emma Hill and her team.

Beulah London Sample Sale TODAY

thelondonchatter — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Beulah London is offering 60 per cent off their ladylike cotton and silk dresses until 7PM tonight at their summer sample sale.

Hurry!! Only 5 Hours left to go!!

At H2 Capital House, The Old Gas Works, 2 Michael Rd, SW6 2AD.

Whilst working at a charity in the Southern slums of Dehli, looking after impoverished girls recently rescued from the sex trade, providing them with safe refuge and the skills and tools they needed to become financially independent, Natasha Rufas Isaacs and Lavinia Brennan were motivated to take action and make a difference to the lives of these victims.

And so, Beulah London was born.

Natasha and Lavinia say, “We wanted to create a luxury brand that was naturally elegant and easy to wear. Our designs are simple, with a strong philosophy behind them – to provide stunning fashion with a conscience.”

If you cannot make the sample sale today, do look at their gorgeous website and if you buy nothing else (and good luck with that!) please do purchase a 'Beulah Bag.' The bags are made in the infamous red-light district in Kolkata, India, and made by women who have escaped the dangers of trafficking.

RRP. £10.00 (with 50% of sales goes directly to anti-human trafficking projects)

Photographs by Jack Brockway

Kate Moss Rimmel Lipstick

thelondonchatter — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Get The London Lips....

Get The London (Fashion Week) Look...

Celebrating her 10 year association with Rimmel London, Kate Moss has launched a new lipstick collection for the brand just in time for London Fashion Week – and their party celebrating their long love affair with her last night.

Available in 15 colours, Kate says the Lasting Finish collection range "from bright reds, to soft pinks and nudes, there is a shade for everyone and any occasion."

RRP. £5.49 each from Boots.

Arriving at the Rimell party at Battersea Power Station last night by helicopter, Kate wore a black vintage dress with a diamante trim, with tousled hair, hot red lips and her ever faithful Christian Louboutin's. Kate was joined by another Rimell blonde beauty, Georgia May Jagger, who wore a Herve Leger dress with Charlotte Olympia heels.

Here is a video of an interview with Kate Moss (she speaks!) and some footage of the party;

London Fashion Week

thelondonchatter — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 09:00:00 +0000

Can you hear that rummmmmbling noise?

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No.

It is the resounding, collective sound of thousands upon thousands of stilettos clicker-clattering around the streets of London attached to some of the most fashionable legs in the industry.

Yes - London Fashion Week has officially begun.

I am particularly looking forward to seeing Tom Ford's Women's Presentation, Teatum Jones, Mary Katrantzou and Felicity Brown along with my always firm favourites; Matthew Williamson, Mulberry, Issa and Temperley London.

For an extensive show schedule check out the Time Out London Website.

Happy Ever After? The New Twilight Trailer

thelondonchatter — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 11:05:00 +0000

The trailer for the greatly anticipated Twilight Breaking Dawn (Part 1) has fiiiinally be released after months of teasers.
After their wedding and tropical honeymoon Bella and Edward have the Quileute and the Volturi close in on them as their unborn child poses different threats to the wolf pack and vampire coven.

Out Nov 18th... TOO excited!!

(Incase you were wondering, I'm Team Edward...)

Megan's Restaurant

thelondonchatter — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 09:30:00 +0000

I recently went for Sunday brunch at Megan's Restaurant...

This restaurant/café/delicatessen on the King’s Road is a breath of fresh air in its surrounding area; calm, relaxed and friendly.

If you can make it past (unlikely) the delicious home made cakes, cookies and gluten-free brownies at the entrance, head down the stairs to their romantic little courtyard – full of naughty gnomes, flowers and fairy lights - I had the most frothy of cappuccino’s and wonderfully carefree, lazy Sunday brunches reading the papers.

As well as offering catering (from weddings to birthday cakes) Megan’s homemade jams and flavoured oils are also available to buy.

Musical Moment - Amy Winehouse and Tony Bennett ('Body and Soul')

thelondonchatter — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 21:00:00 +0000

Today, 'Body and Soul' - Amy Winehouse's duet with Tony Bennett - was released, on what would have been her 28th birthday.

Filmed in March at London’s Abbey Road Studios, Amy coyly twirls her hair and girlishly flutters her eyelashes as she sings with the legendary jazz crooner.

The proceeds from the single’s sales will go towards the Amy Winehouse Foundation. Founded by Amy’s parents, the charity will raise money to support organisations that help and care for young people – many of whom will be affected by addiction.

Emma Watson - Lancome's Tresor Midnight Rose Campaign

thelondonchatter — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 10:30:00 +0000

Lotions and Potions...

Emma Watson has put the magic touch into Lancôme’s new campaign for Trésor Midnight Rose perfume.

Ditching her trademark English Rose look for a more edgy one, Emma was photographed beautifully by Mario Testino around Cafe de Flore in Paris' Saint-Germain neighborhood.

Emma said "I feel lucky to embody a fragrance I am so crazy in love with."

You're Never Fully Dressed Without A....

thelondonchatter — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:49:00 +0000

"A laugh is a smile that bursts" - Mary H. Waldrip

National Kissing Day - Smoooooch!

thelondonchatter — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:29:00 +0000

TODAY IS NATIONAL KISSING DAY

x PUCKER UP x

"Kiss me. Kiss me as if it were the last time."
Casablanca (1942) - Ilsa Lund, Ingrid Bergman

“No, I don't think I will kiss you, although you need kissing, badly. That's what's wrong with you. You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how.” 

Gone With the Wind (1939) – Rhett Butler (Clark Gable)

“Since the invention of the kiss there have been five kisses that were rated the most passionate, the most pure. This one left them all behind. The End.”

The Princess Bride (1987) – Grandpa (Peter Falk)

Musical Moment - Snow Patrol ('Called Out In The Dark') with Tara Summers

thelondonchatter — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 07:32:00 +0000

London born actress Tara Summers, who has previously held roles in shows including Dirt, Boston Legal, Damages and Private Practice has now taken to dancing in handcuffs... Calm yourselves now… Tara plays the despairing director in the new Snow Patrol music video for ‘Called Out In The Dark’ – with fellow Brit Jack Davenport also featuring - the results are hilarious.

(A heads up - These backing dancers can be held wholly responsible for the new beyond awesome moves I plan to unleash at my friend’s wedding this weekend...)

Rocking her new Jessica Rabbit flame red hair, striking beauty Tara Summers is currently filming CBS's new show Ringer (left) alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ioan Gruffudd, which will be shown on Living in the UK later this year.

Best Of London - Chris O'Dowd

thelondonchatter — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 10:00:00 +0000

31 year old Irish actor Chris O’Dowd is used to playing affable nerds and the sweetest of slackers, becoming well known for his role as the hapless Roy in The IT Crowd and for playing Simon in 2009’s ‘The Boat That Rocked.’ This summer however, Chris was catapulted into the ‘Leading-Man-Eye-Candy’ category when he played Officer Rhodes in the whopper blockbuster hit ‘Bridesmaids’ - eclipsing seasoned screen hottie Jon Hamm by a mile.

Taking some time out from being swamped with marriage proposals (to say the least) via Twitter from swooning women all around the world, Chris shares with us some of his London favourites;

My Pint – A pint and a whiskey in the Toucan in Soho with my best mate, Jamie.

My Date Night – With my beautiful lady friend, Dawn, at a French place called La Brasserie in South Kensington.

My Sunday Brunch – We host a roast at our place in Bermondsey for a big bunch of our mates 2/3 times a month.

My Building – I love the Art Deco Tesco headquarters on the M40 on the way to Pinewood.

My London Shop – I love the stuff A.Sauvage makes. Sweet, classic suits with an African twist.

My London Extravagance – High tea at The Dorchester. Nothing quite like it.

London's Best Kept Secret – I really like L'Entrecote just off Marylebone High Street.

My London Icon (Past or Present) – Richard Harris. I loved that he spent his final years livin' it large in The Savoy...

Below: A recent picture on set of 'The Sapphires' in Australia. Set in 1968, four young, talented Australian Aboriginal girls learn about love, friendship and war when their all girl group entertain the US troops in Vietnam.

Below: With Meghan Fox and Jason Segal on the set of the Judd Apatow's new film, 'This is Forty' which follows Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd‘s 'Knocked Up' characters. Chris says, “it’s an in-depth look at relationships, marriage and parenting in this kind of post-boomer generation."

Follow Chris (or tweet marriage proposals) @bigboyler

The Fashion Mile

thelondonchatter — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Yesterday saw some of Britain’s top designers (including Christopher Kane, Sarah Burton, Katie Hillier, Erdem Moralioglu and Peter Pilotto) donning trainers (albeit it fabulous leopard print ones Charlotte Olympia!) to join in on the ‘Born To Walk Tall’ campaign where they walked alongside Sam Cam, the Save the Children and British Fashion Council Ambassador, on the first ever ‘Fashion Mile.’ Walking from Downing Street to Somerset House this fashionable herd showed their support for the vital, life-saving work of doctors, nurses and midwives worldwide in helping make sure that children live to take their first steps.

"It's heartbreaking that 8 million children under five die every year, simply because there is no doctor or nurse nearby to give them treatment. The mile we're walking today is dedicated to the inspirational health professionals who tirelessly make that journey - often covering substantial distances - to save the lives of children." Samantha Cameron.

Sign up here to support the campaign and here to donate.

Debit Buy - Velvet on a Shoestring

thelondonchatter — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 10:00:00 +0000

I have always thought that the most decadent of purchases are those which are the most impractical with the shortest of life lines - yet desperately desired in spite of this... cashmere socks for instance. My pair lasted one glorious, indulgent day and after one wash they shrunk so small they would fit only a pixie (hand wash socks… seriously?) But now, as seen on the Paris catwalks earlier this year and now filtering down on to our hightstreet, there is a trend for an even more frivolous foot companion; velvet.

Luxurious, sumptuous, jewel toned velvet – stereotypically donning the slippered feet of bluebloods, this material is hardly the most sensible for us to strut our stuff in. They are ill-equipped for bad weather or the most minor of daily scuffs - therefore, wholly desirable...

Now all I need is my very own Sir Walter Raleigh (Jack) to chivalrously lay down his cloak (jacket) over any puddles in my track to prevent me from muddying these velveteen lovelies (this could take some convincing.)

Topshop, as always, have us totally covered with flats, boots and heels;

Topshop Valerian Velvet Ballet Pumps, £18.00 (in Oxblood, Teal, Green and Navy Blue)

Topshop Artwork Velvet Lace Up Shoes £75.00 (in Marl Red, Dark Green and Navy Blue)

Topshop Sacred Velvet Bow Court Shoes, £58.00 (in Black, Blue and Burgundy)

Credit Buy - Pheobe Coleman Jewellery

thelondonchatter — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 +0000

I love Primrose Hill based Phoebe Coleman’s feminine and romantic jewellery, but I am especially coveting her Love Me Tender range.

Available to buy from her website this is my favourite...

The Love Me Tender Ring
RRP £102.00

Think it oh-whoah-a-verrr...

thelondonchatter — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 07:30:00 +0000

Come on Boris - London needs these!!

Livin La Vida Lanvin

thelondonchatter — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 09:02:00 +0000

The new A/W'11 ad campaign for Lanvin by Steven Meisel teaches us 3 things:

1. The elegant collection is goooorgeous (those capes... those wide-brimmed hats!)
2. Move over chaps: Alber Ebaz is a serious scene stealer of note.
3. Models can walk... but not dance...

Zumba Wii Moves: Karen Elson, Raquel Zimmermann

Vivienne Westwood in Kenya

thelondonchatter — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 09:21:00 +0000

From Kenya With Love...

Having been raised in Kenya this project is particularly exciting for me...

Vivienne Westwood’s ethical range of handbags, made from environmentally sustainable materials in her second collaboration with Nairobi-based social enterprise Ethical Fashion Africa were unveiled earlier this year and the pictures taken on her last visit to Kenya are featured in her new A/W’11 ad campaign. Taken by photographer Juergen Teller some of the photos feature Kenyan supermodel, Ajuma and also local discoveries, Elsie and Sonnietta.

The project is designed to support and empower disadvantaged female artisans living in two of Nairobi’s slum areas Kibera and Korogocho by utilizing their creative skills – London based Vivienne Westwood’s confirms, “this is not charity, this is work… What I do, making bags, can make a difference. This project gives people control over their lives—charity doesn’t give control, it does the opposite, it makes them dependant.”

Available to buy here on Vivienne Westwood's Website

A video explaining the project;

In Vogue: Kate Moss' Wedding

thelondonchatter — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0000

I do. I Vogue.

My sister just arrived from New York dragging her handbag behind her… In it, the whopper, super-sized September issue of American Vogue she bought for me containing the much anticipated beeeeyooootiful wedding pictures of Kate Moss’ wedding last month.

After various relationships, some good, some bad, some plain ugly, Kate agreed to marry Jamie Hince, guitarist of rock band the Kills whilst cuddled up on the sofa watching television. Were they watching some big ol’romantic classic when they decided to tie the knot? No… They were watching an episode of ‘My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding!’ Kate explained, “I was just watching Jamie, so cute, and I was like, these girls, they just spend their whole life waiting for that day—let’s do it!”

The pictures were taken by Mario Testino and were well worth the wait to ogle at... Wow! Beautiful, softly lit, bohemian and extremely romantic.

Determined to have a decadent, dreamy 1920’s wedding, Kate even gave her forthcoming Big Day the secret code of ‘GG’ - after F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby.

Inspired by old Jazz Age pictures of Zelda Fitzgerald, John Galliano designed Kate’s delicately exquisite dress (which he subsequently called his ‘creative rehab’) and in custom made Manolo Blahnik shoes, Kate entered the church to the sound of applause, wolf whistles, and The Rolling Stone’s anthem ‘You Can’t Always Get What You Want.’

The swagger of Jagger: A very Mick and Bianca shot of the couple.

A stolen moment.

Kate had a fairy-like cluster of 13 young bridesmaids all wearing dresses by BonPoint (designed by Christine Innamorato) and Pretty Ballerina ‘Hannah’ flats.

Vogue has also released a Kate Moss Wedding Video, featuring interviews with some of the biggest names in fashion and a look at Kate’s career...

Thank you Vogue - and Congratulations Mrs Hince!

Musical Moment - Slow Moving Millie ('Beasts')

thelondonchatter — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0000

Having played the piano, making up little stories to the music, from a very early age, beautiful actress Amelia Warner, 29, star of the movies ‘Quills’ and ‘Stoned,’ is now writing and singing under the name ‘Slow Moving Millie.’

Living in London and currently working on an album of British 80's covers and composing several film scores, you may have heard her ethereal, mischievous sounding, debut single, ‘Beasts,’ on the Virgin Media advert last year (shown below.)

The quirky lyrics of this song came to her whilst walking through Highgate Cemetery - she saw a gravestone that read 'Where Sleeping Beasts Lie...'

"This could be our fairytale,
We'll make them all disappear.
I could be the rabbit,
to your magic hat..."

Little Miss Truffle

thelondonchatter — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Best Of London - Kelly Hoppen

thelondonchatter — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0000

Kelly Hoppen; MBE, Interior designer extraordinaire and the undisputed Queen of Taupe.

When not designing celebrities homes (or the interiors of their private jets... yachts...) or busy writing her 8th design book, Kelly also runs her own design school, has her own collection of home accessories, designs ranges of organic clothing for Earth Couture, has a super successful QVC range, oh – and has a new TV show helping five families create stylish interiors in their own homes starting next month.

Phew! This is one busy lady.

Surely Kelly, based in West London, has no time left to go out and about and enjoy London?! Wrong. This lady is nothing if not a serious multi-tasker!

Kelly shares with us some of her London favourites;

My Transport – Black Cab or I drive my Jaguar.

My Cocktail – A Caipirinha with agave at E&O - they have the best barman.

My Date Night – With my man - Big A, at J.Sheekey – Love, love, love!

My Sunday Brunch – At Raoul's in Notting Hill Gate – Great food and happy, Spanish staff.

My Boutique – The Cross, its small and full of unusual one offs.

My High Street Store – All Saints, I love their t-shirt clothes.

London’s Best Kept Secret – The Idle Hour in Barnes; its cute, has great food and is tucked away.

My London Icon (Past or Present) – Vidal Sassoon. A good friend, he is an extraordinary man and pioneer in his field – he was also so inspired by architecture – his new film is a must!

www.kellyhoppenretail.com

'Super Interiors with Kelly Hoppen' starts on Sept 21st at 8pm on Channel 5.

@TheLDNChatter

thelondonchatter — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 19:56:00 +0000

X Factor Fashion

thelondonchatter — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Its back! The 8th series of X Factor launched this weekend and 12.6 million of us tuned in to boo and to cheer this year’s hearty concoction of desperate, deluded bellowers and genuinely talented songbirds.

They have a brand new, super shiny line up of judges… and Louis (who I’m sure will still be telling contestants they “have the full package” on X Factor 2070, having outlived us all.)

But what of the newbie’s? Handsome, stubbly, no-nonsense Gary Barlow, will surely have become the nation’s biggest crush overnight, but as with every X-Factor series, it’s really all about the gals...

Kelly Rowland is awesome.

With 15 years experience in the industry, a flirtatious Southern drawl and a swaggersome, super slick style (outfits for the audition stages have included this figure hugging Versace dress and lots... and lots… of bare midriff (hey, if we could, we would!) She’s also promised to wear more Brit designers for the live shows – Top contenders include Stella McCartney, Victoria Beckham, McQueen and Bass & Brooks.

I also love that her responses always include the liberal scattering of words such as ‘boo,’ and ‘mama’ – terms of endearment I feel, having obviously tried them out immediately, only Kelly Rowland can pull off.

N-Dubz feisty singer Tulisa totally held her own on the panel and also won the audience’s sympathy when a gobby auditionee verbally attacked her.

After seeing the above promo shots of her looking all a bit too reminiscent of Our Cheryl (tight Hervé Leger and glossy biiiiiiiig hair) Tulisa’s outfits for the auditions have been a relief - I especially loved her DKNY jumpsuit covered in little lips (available at Selfridges) which along with red lips and a retro hairstyle, she is definitely set to make her own fashion stamp on the proceedings.

The best audition of the night? 16 year old Janet Deviln (watch audition here.) A little bit Ellie Goulding, a little bit cupcake – this shy, ethereal girl from Northern Ireland was adorable and definitely one to watch.

Credit Buy - Melissa Lo Cosmo Bangles

thelondonchatter — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 20:44:00 +0000

I really like these Melissa Lo Four Stone Cosmo Bangles.

Available at Austique, you can choose between four colours of semi-precious stones to adorn your gold vermeil bangle; Amethyst, Blue Topaz, Chrysophase or Smokey Quartz.

These would look great on everyone - and they are perfect for the summer, worn alone or stacked.

£120.00

Repetto Toes

thelondonchatter — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 02:30:00 +0000

Madame Rose Repetto made her first ballet shoes in 1947 and prima ballerinas from all over the world were soon flocking to her shop. In 1956, inspired by these ballet shoes she created her famous ballet flats – hugely popular at the time with Bridgette Bardot, they continue to be just as popular today and regularly adorn the feet of Kate Moss, Sofia Coppola – and MEEEEE.

These are my favourite pair – how could you not smile with these precious sparkles on ya tootsies?

Repetto flats are now available from Selfridges.

www.repetto.com

Betty Draperlicious

thelondonchatter — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 01:37:00 +0000

At her recent birthday party, Petrina Khashoggi, writer, channeled Mad Men's Betty Draper, wearing this sensational 1950’s silk and satin, aqua couture dress by Harvey Berin, accessorised with pearls.

The exquisite vintage dress was a birthday gift to Petrina from her great friend William Banks-Blaney (right) who was once dubbed by Vogue as ‘The Vintage King.’ His shop, ‘William Vintage,' can be found at 2 Marylebone Street and is filled with stunning haute couture and vintage clothing.

Oh so charmingly, this dress has little folds around the bust line, which typically in the 1950’s were referred to as ‘crumb catchers!’

Betty Draperlicious.

Petrina is currently working on a ‘top-secret’ biography – Watch this space!

Musical Moment - Lana Del Rey ('Video Games')

thelondonchatter — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 22:28:00 +0000

I have fallen in love with this 24-year-old former jazz singer (real name Lizzie Grant) from New York. She is a self-styled "gangster Nancy Sinatra" and has the most memorising face (those lips!) and haunting voice. Her old-school glamour reminds me of a 1960’s Priscilla Presley. I can’t wait for her album.

"It's you, it's you, it's all for you
Everything I do
I tell you all the time
Heaven is a place on earth with you
Tell me all the things you want to do
I heard that you like the bad girls
Honey, is that true?
It's better than I ever even knew
They say that the world was built for two
Only worth living if somebody is loving you
Baby now you do"

Credit Buy - Stella McCartney Lingerie

thelondonchatter — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:41:00 +0000

These Days of the Week cotton and silk knickers from Stella McCartney are so sweet.

With a small floral design on their front and rushed lace trims they are available in white, black and soft pink.

£125.00

Lowry Baker

thelondonchatter — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 22:48:00 +0000

Yesterday my friend suggested we meet for brunch at Lowry and Baker at the end of the Portobello Road.
“Where?” I asked.
"Don’t you know it?” she replied.
No. I don’t. And I instantly get the feeling that I should. (I was right.)

Lowry and Baker, a one-roomed café with outdoor tables, near the Golborne Road, opened in 2010 and has a very loyal local fan base – who are pretty damn protective (one customer told me not to take photos… evidently incase the details of their secret sanctuary and refuge from the closeby chaos of Portobello were to ever be revealed.)

Coffees and a gorgeous menu of homemade food are served on mismatched crockery laid on wonderful, eclectic furniture (the lady next to me outside is eating some lavender shortbread off a child’s school desk.) I had the poached eggs with crushed avocado and parma ham on sourdough. Angels sang.

During my feast 3 friends of mine walked out… Errrrm… Does everyone know about this place?? Well they do now. Sorry locals - It’s time to play nicely and share.

L.K.Bennett Campaign

thelondonchatter — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 22:48:00 +0000

L.K.Bennett’s new advertisement campaign features ‘real’ women – not some A List actor, size zero model or brooding teenage musician – but real life muggles (albeit smoking hot ones) of differing ages and professions.

Their new ‘Life Is The Occasion” campaign includes, amongst others, an obstetrician, a compliance analyst, a textile designer – AND an environmentalist. Yes, the ever so gorgeous Sophia Rogge (above, whose beautiful sarongs for Coral Conservation I have previously written about) is one of L.K.Bennett’s chosen ambassadors.

A Big Apple Bite

thelondonchatter — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 16:13:00 +0000

With one day in Manhattan to spend after the festival before my return to London, after a flutter in the shops, I made sure to visit my three favourite Big Apple destinations with my sister and Jack;

1. Cafe Angelique on Bleeker Street

Founded in 2002, this little café brings a touch of Europe to New York and is one of the most relaxing and calm places to stop for coffee or lunch in the city. The menu is delicious (I had the chicken, mango and goats cheese salad) and the pastries, croissants and stuffed cupcakes (I know, who knew? Wow!) are just too tempting to ignore. The welcoming and friendly staff swirl adorable hearts on the tops of their frothy coffees (try saying that 5 times in a row…) and when my refreshing slushy iced mint lemonade arrived, served in a small carafe, my sister immediately grabbed it before I could – who could blame her?

2. The High Line - New York's 'Park In The Sky'

1.5 miles long, built 30 feet in the air in the 1930’s this structure supported the freight trains which transported meat and baking supplies from the (now very trendy) Meatpacking District in West Chelsea into the city. As no trains had run on the High Line since 1980 the structure was due to be demolished until the Friends of the Highline (including Diane Von Furstenberg and Edward Norton) formed a coalition with the City of New York in 1999 to preserve it and create an elevated public park in its place.

The High Line opened in June 2009 and every time I visit New York I love to take a stroll over the old sleepers above the city and its crazy hustle and bustle, and take a breather amongst all the lush flowers, grasses and trees that grew wild during its dormancy - this time I went at sunset - magical.

3. La Esquina - Between Kenmare & Lafayette

Hidden below the neon lit, corner taco deli, beyond the toothless, dismissive doorman, through the small door stating ‘Employees Only,’ through the kitchens, you will eventually arrive at a dungeon like, speak easyish, Mexican restaurant.

This place is great and I try to visit each time I go to NYC. Wrought iron gates, waxy candelabras, colourful Mexican tiling, great music, great food… And a selection of over 100 types of tequila… Another Margarita anyone?? Yesh Pleash…

I can sleep on the plane tomorrow…

Escape to New York

thelondonchatter — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 20:05:00 +0000

Watching the news on television last Sunday night and witnessing from afar the worse riots Britain has seen in over thirty years, I was quite relieved I had chosen that particular weekend to escape to New York. Literally. I went to the Escape To New York festival on the Shinnecock Reservation on the east end of Long Island.

Organised by Freddie Fellowes (modeled on his Cambridgeshire Secret Garden Party) and entrepreneur Rocco Gardner, New Yorkers and British aliens alike, all travelled the ninety miles outside Manhattan for a weekend of frivolous festival fun.

When I think of festivals in the UK I envisage wellies, mud and fancy dress; It is practically a prerequisite of the Secret Garden Party to attend looking as weird and wonderful as possible and my disheveled friends returning from Glastonbury this year looked like they hadn’t slept or showered in 4 days (they hadn’t.)

E2NY was NOT this kind of festival.

Attracting a much more style savvy and well groomed crowd, with a chic ‘glamping’ area consisting of rows of crisp white teepees and safari style tents, hot showers in porter-bathrooms, and delicious catering by The Fat Radish, I stealthy buried my silver latex leggings and pink wig at the bottom of my bag – Thank God I had just had a pedicure…

Aside from the usual festival staples (multi-coloured wayfarers, floral hair accessories, denim shorts, pixi boots) there was a definite nod to our Native American hosts (feathers in girl’s hair, moccasins on their feet) and an elegant trend also appeared; short shorts with long sleeved tops and bikini tops with flowing maxi skirts – a more demure way of keeping/looking cool.

Various clothes and accessory stalls were scattered around the reservation but ultimately there were three that stood out as the most popular, unique and exciting;

1. The StyleLiner

The glamorous Joey Wolfer drives all over the world in her 20 foot refurbished potato-chip truck – a veritable treasure trove filled with limited edition clothing and extraordinary accessories available to the flocks of fashionistas at private parties, social events and festivals. Starting successful ventures is in her blood (her great-great grandfather started Marks and Spencer) and I foresee the StyleLiner becoming extremely successful... After all, this is not just any StyleLiner… This is Joey Wolfer’s StyleLiner… (Sorry, I couldn’t resist…)

2. The Monocle Order

A new online member’s club for sunglasses founded by Alex Van Klaveren and Zoe Nightingale. Once you buy a pair of full priced sunglasses you will become a life-time member to the club, receive a steel membership card and be entitled to buy all subsequent pairs for half price (up to twelve per year.) The stylish sunglasses are selected from all over the world and include ranges from Karen Walker, Lotho, Cassius, Waiting For The Sun and May Fourteenth. Join up now whilst membership is still free.

3. Roarke

Designer Mignonne Gavigan and former Bergdorf Goodman buyer, Laetitia Stanfield’s exquisite collection bib necklaces, headbands and bracelets are all stop and stare striking. Each piece created is hand beaded in India and crafted from sequins. beads and costume gems, with a chiffon backing. I adored the headbands, although their bib necklaces were sensational – serious statement pieces.

As for the festival’s music?

For me, the standout acts were Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros (I wanna be in their gang!!) who’s song ‘Home’ was a serious crowd pleaser, and exciting newcomer Gary Clark Jr. - a twenty-seven year old blues guitarist reminiscent of the late Jimi Hendrix, he had the crowd blown away, worshipping him.

I look forward to escaping back to New York again next year.

He loves me... He loves me not...

thelondonchatter — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:05:00 +0000

Debit Buy - ASOS Peter Pan Dress

thelondonchatter — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:14:00 +0000

I really like Peter Pan collars and have recently bought this pleated (still very fashionable) Asos navy dress (also available in burgundy, left.)

Its perfect for the summer but can easily be worn with tights and boots in the autumn.

RRP. £35.00

Butterfly, Flutterby, Butterfly By

thelondonchatter — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 11:49:00 +0000

Beautifully delicate with bright, fairy like wings, seeing the year’s first butterfly brings a smile to most people’s faces. We are immediately filled with the excitement and hope that, similarly to this vibrant creature, newly emerged from its dark cocoon, we too will imminently be throwing off our snug duvets, tossing aside our UGG boots and surfacing into the warm light of summer (bless our British optimism and wishful thinking...)

When I went to The Butterfly House at the Natural History Museum I was faced with 100’s of bright and beautiful tropical butterflies from all over the world, many species of which are currently under threat from climate and habitat change. I was all a'flutter (and a'fluster... Wow... Butterflies like it hot and humid...) and soon found myself standing statue still, arms stretched out, in the desperate hope of looking like the perfect butterfly landing strip… It was at this particular moment my boyfriend disappeared across the pavilion, making sure he did not also look deranged by mere association.

There are tables to see the butterflies feeding with their straw like mouths, a hatchery window for visitors to see pupae growing, eventually emerging into butterflies (this cycle can take up to 137 days so there’s no guarantee you will see anything more exciting than eggs and larvae) and best of all – the mirror on your way out (to check if you are harboring any mischievous escapees) unintentionally elongates and slims you beyond all recognition, leaving you feeling like Giselle… Now that IS wishful thinking!

The Butterfly House is open until 11th September 2011

Movie Moment - Harold and Maude

thelondonchatter — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 23:36:00 +0000

A director friend of mine, Patrick Sisam, holds a Sunday ‘Movie Night’ at his house roughly every 6 weeks. A bunch of our friends get together, have supper (Patrick’s famous chilli) and after listening to a presentation about his chosen film, we all watch the movie. Sound geeky?... Don’t get too despondent, we are all wicked cool…

Last night we watched Hal Ashby’s cult black comedy, ‘Harold and Maude.’ The idea of a 19 year old boy falling in love with a 79 year old woman seemed, at best, wildly unrealistic – and then you meet Maude… And then you get it. Everyone falls in love with Maude.
Harold (Bud Cort) is obsessed with death; he drives a hearse, regularly traumatises his mother by elaborately faking his own suicides and attends funerals for fun. Maude (Ruth Gordon) however, is obsessed with life – free spirited, energetic and fabulously eccentric, she obeys no rules and lives her life passionately and spontaneously.

It is during their relationship (one of the sweetest, if not the most visually mismatched I have seen) that Maude, with all her exuberant zeal, saves Harold from his downhill spiral and teaches him (and the viewer) to enjoy life.

Sophia Rogge - Coral Conservation

thelondonchatter — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 16:39:00 +0000

Corals Are Cool

The beautiful and fragile coral reefs of the world are in crises. Under serious threat, from global warming and destructive fishing practices to name but two, the destruction of these organisms has become such an important issue that in many areas they are considered endangered species.

Enter: Sophia Rogge, The Caped Coral Crusader.

Ok… Perhaps not caped, but definitely decoratively wrapped.

Sophia, a talented artist, is making coral conservation fashionable. Her debut collection of eco friendly beaded sarongs depicting beautiful kaleidoscopic corals and made with environmentally safe dyes in India, come in a range of colours (Kaledia, Blush, Cobalt and Amber – my favourite's the Kaledia) along with a Kaledia Mini sarong, and the Summer Scarf - the softest and prettiest around.

I Wannem. All.

10% of all Sophia’s eco beachwear sales go to Corals for Conservation who work with local fishing communities and the tourism industries in restoring damaged reef areas and protecting the coral reefs for the future.

Available from her website and reasonably priced (from £30 – £95) Sophia believes coral conservation is everyone’s problem so her range is refreshingly more affordable and accessible than other such stylish ranges.

Here is a picture of me wearing the much sought after Summer Scarf. (Jeans by H&M. Shirt from Topshop.)

I assisted Sophia on her photo shoots for the collection - see the collage below for some 'behind the scenes' pictures. Also featured in the photos are makeup artist Charlotte Cowen and model Willow Crossley (with her son Wolf!)

Best Of London - Kalita Al Swaidi

thelondonchatter — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:11:00 +0000

Kalita Al Swaidi, 29, is an aspiring TV presenter and celebrated lingerie designer (her embroidered chiffon knickers make the best presents - Kate Moss and Kylie are both said to be fans.) Kalita lives in West London (with one of the most enviable, stylish wardrobes in the city) and was named after the beautiful flower that grows on cactus.

Here Kalita shares her London Favourites;

My Transport - My Rover Mini

My Cocktail - A Margarita with a best friend at Santo towards the end of Portobello Road.

My Date Night - With my 'lover' at The Oak; cocktails upstairs and pizza downstairs and maybe, some tequila and pole dancing next door at Crazy Homies. Or, karaoke and sake at a dive bar in Soho.

My Sunday Brunch - With family or friends at Julie's Restaurant – especially on a sunny day on an outside table – order the roast chicken and bring your children or your dogs (they even have a Sunday crèche for the little ones if you want to enjoy some cocktails in the sun.)

My Boutique - Austique for all the special little things – either to cheer yourself up on a rainy day or for the best birthday gifts.

My High Street Store – Topshop (especially their online website – great for secret buying from your desk when you are going on holiday on Friday and need to be in the office all the hours before.)

London¹s Best Kept Secret - Black cabs – the cabbies give the best advice and tell the best jokes.

My London Icon (Past or Present) – The pigeons… It has to be…

www.kalita.co.uk

'Mam'

thelondonchatter — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:52:00 +0000

Last night I went to the ICA to watch ‘Mam’ at the Rushes Soho Shorts 2011 Festival.
Written by the gorgeous Vivienne Harvey, it sees her boyfriend, acclaimed British actor, Hugo Speer, in his directorial debut.

After acting together 3 years ago, Vivienne and Hugo set up a production company called Vigo Films and set about filming ‘Mam’ in Sheffield - the same city Hugo filmed the 1997 Oscar-nominated, Brit classic ‘The Full Monty.'

Extremely well directed – no mean feat when working with 5 young children – the star of ‘Mam’ is almost certainly its lead, 13 year old Ronan Carter. His heartbreaking performance of a child, desperately trying to keep his family together by fending for his younger siblings and looking after his sick mother, was beautifully performed and extremely poignant.

Screened at several film festivals from Utah to Moscow and continuing it's festival run throughout 2011, you can see 'Mam' later this year when available to download via iTunes.

In the meantime Vivienne and Hugo are working on a feature film script together - Viva Vigo!

Marie Claire's September Issue

thelondonchatter — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:28:00 +0000

(Dolce & Gabanna silk chiffon star print dress)

Last night I joined the fashion fabulous, at Argyll Street’s Aqua Neuva, for the launch of Marie Claire’s September Fashion Issue - the issue that heralds the start of the new year of fashion, and deemed the most important edition of the year.

Their September Issue features Anne Hathaway on the front cover.

Whilst the fash pack sipped on champagne and giant, fish bowl like glasses of gin and tonics, and nibbled on delicious canapés, the rain held off just long enough for me to catch up with Marie-Clare’s Executive Fashion Editor, Tanya Semikoz.

Their predictions for this Autumn include a Mad Men inspired return to ladylike shapes and demure elegance (pussy bow blouses and classic pencil skirts) and a homage to the 1970's (jewel tones and luxurious fabrics) with shades of orange and snakeskin prints being key trends to keep an eye out for.

RIP Amy Winehouse...

thelondonchatter — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 22:00:00 +0000

Amy Winehouse's close friend, Russell Brand wrote a beautiful remembrance on his official website; “From her oddly dainty presence came that voice, a voice that seemed not to come from her but from somewhere beyond even Billie and Ella, from the font of all greatness. A voice that was filled with such power and pain that it was at once entirely human yet laced with the divine. My ears, my mouth, my heart and mind all instantly opened.”

With her soulful voice, raw lyrics, unapologetic attitude and unique sense of style, Amy’s musical impact will never be forgotten.

Here are two of my favourite examples of that voice...

RIP Amy.

Debit Buy - Kate wears Topshop on Honeymoon

thelondonchatter — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 17:55:00 +0000

Whilst honeymooning with Jamie Hince on Sir Philip Green’s yacht, Kate Moss was photographed off the coast of Corsica wearing a Topshop black lace bandeau bikini with a gold metal ring detail in the middle - from Topshop.

£28.50

Youer The Best

thelondonchatter — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 16:23:00 +0000

Credit Buy - Sunglasses

thelondonchatter — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 20:57:00 +0000

Lots of people have commented on my 1940's looking sunglasses recently (modelled beautifully here by one of my two amazing Great-Dane/Ridgebacks, Maximus.

Although my cheapie pair are no longer available, Ray Ban have a near identical pair (above)

£97.00

And so do Illesteva - Their Leonard Sunglasses are available at Matches (and seen in Grazia this week!)

£155.00

Sexual Nature - The National History Museum

thelondonchatter — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 17:11:00 +0000

Bird's Do It, Bee's Do It...

If ever I find myself at a loss for words (admittedly, not regularly) I often pepper awkward silences with an array of animal facts memorized over the years – everyone loves an animal fact, no??

Giraffe can’t cough.
Hippopotamus milk is bright pink.
An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain.

Yes – Conversational Gold people!!

So imagine my joy when I saw The Natural History Museum (previously seen in my mind as the home of dinosaurs and swarming herds of children armed with colds and clipboards) were showing an exhibition entitled ‘Sexual Nature’ – a whole area dedicated to the most awesome, and thoroughly racy, animal facts around.

With low lighting, seedy lounge room music and the frequent cries of Isabella Rossellini begging various species of wildlife to seduce her (her fabulous, award winning ‘Green Porn’ shorts are shown throughout) you undertake a giggly, multi-sensory exploration of the weird and wonderful world of the sexual and reproductive behaviour of hundreds of animals and insects.

I am thrilled that any future awkward dinner party moments look set to be resolved with a more risqué myriad of animal knowledge (“Do you know snakes have two penises and an octopus's testicles are located in its head? Please pass the gravy...”) but I would however, strongly recommend veering away from the ‘sniff me’ boxes containing the mating scents of wild stags and jaguars.. More than likely similar to Ron Burgandy’s fragrance of choice, the infamous, ‘Sex Panther’ ("60% of the time it works every time!”) a handy packet of Tic Tacs later, I was still wincing.

Exhibiting until the last Friday of October 2011.

Musical Moment - Beyonce ('Best Thing I Never Had')

thelondonchatter — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 19:26:00 +0000

I love Beyonce as much as the next person… as long as that next person isn’t my boyfriend – he loooooooves Mrs Z - and the first scene of this music video will do nothing to suppress his crush.

Every one of us has someone (or sometwo… or somethree... hey, whose counting?!) that this song could be belted out to - so this song is dedicated to all the douche bags - the best things we never had…

Credit Buy - Lulu Guinness Lips Clutch

thelondonchatter — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 17:43:00 +0000

Luscious Lulu Lips...

I thought I couldn't want a Lulu Guinness Lips Clutch any more... Then I walk past Selfridges and see all these ludicrously luscious lips all lined up pouting at me seductively from their shop window... I don't think I will be able to resist for much longer… MWA!

From £225 - £650

Walkies

thelondonchatter — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:00:00 +0000

Today we took Jack's puppy, the black beauty Zee Zee (a working cocker spaniel) for a walk in Richmond Park... You can just about make her out camouflaged next to me!

Denim Skirt - Similar found at H&M
Sunglasses - Similar found here
Handbag - The Mulberry Alexa
Straw Hat - Urban Outfitters
Gold Brooch On Skirt- Vintage
Topaz Ring - Sourced by Goode And Son
Lipstick - MAC 'So Chaud'
Nailpolish - Essie 'Sugar Daddy'

As an aside... What do they say about Dogs looking like their owners....?!

Bleeding Heart Restaurant

thelondonchatter — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:27:00 +0000

Ooh La La...

Knowing my penchant for Tudor History, Paris and all things heart shaped, my boyfriend took me and my glittery shoes to dinner at Bleeding Heart in Hatton Cross.

There is a restaurant, a bistro, a tavern and a crypt (where King Henry VIII and Queen Catherine of Aragon held their three day wedding feast) all spread over a secluded cobbled courtyard – the same courtyard where the murder of Lady Hatton took place in 1626; Her jealous lover left her body lying in this courtyard, "torn limb from limb with her heart still pumping blood into the cobblestones...” Hungry?!

Jack, or in this case, Jacques, chose this particular location to give me a beautiful, Topaz ring (found in an auction by our friend Charlie Goode, of Goode and Son.)

Given that The Times voted Bleeding Heart as London’s most romantic restaurant and one of my girlfriends was recently proposed to here, so there could be no misunderstanding as to the ring’s purpose (can you imagine?!) upon presenting me with the aforementioned sparkler, Jacques loudly and slowly accompanied his gift with “THIS.. IS.. FOR.. OUR.. ONE.. YEAR.. ANNI.. VER.. SARY..”

With such clear instruction and stage projection our nearby neighbours will more than likely have assumed I was deaf or foreign.

“MER…CI… JACQUES... I... LOVES... IT!” ;)

Weird Little Beast

thelondonchatter — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 16:14:00 +0000

Honestly Healthy

thelondonchatter — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:32:00 +0000

Yesterday saw the launch of Honestly Healthy in the Selfridges Food Hall, the joint venture of Natasha Corrett (health retreat organizer and vegetarian chef) and Vicki Edgson (nutritionist and original co-founder of The Food-Doctor.) Their range of freshly prepared gourmet vegetarian food promises to help balance, alkalise, calm, revive and revitalize you.

As a nutrition novice (chocolate raisins count towards your 5 a day surely?!) Natasha explained that adding alkaline into your daily diet helps to calm nerves, focus your mind, replenish your skin, improve your digestion, reduce the toxin levels in your body and considerably reduce the risk of cancer.

A salad encompassing a range of ingredients from quinoa, feta and tofu to bok choy, red rice and chickpeas, and a series of ready to cook dry mixes including risottos and tagines are available to buy from today.

I left with a jar of ‘Rise and Shine Muesli,’ which I have been promised that it is so delicious and naturally sweeted from the dried fruits inside, I will not have to add any of my usual morning time spoonfuls of sugar, dollops of honey or sprinklings of chocolate…

If anyone can challenge my sweet tooth (teeth… mouth... body...) its these ladies. Honestly.

Debit Buy - Alexa wears Topshop at Glastonbury

thelondonchatter — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:07:00 +0000

Alexa Chung wore this adorable Topshop sundress at Glastonbury last weekend - With a 1950's silhouette and flirtatious flowery crochet middle, it is sure to be a summer festival favourite.

£34.00

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

thelondonchatter — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 22:22:00 +0000

"Every Night In My Dreams...."

I have been obsessed with the story of the Titanic for as long as I can remember (and not just since Leonardo played Jack Dawson and Celine belted out ‘My Heart Will Go On...’ although perhaps this may have exacerbated it somewhat…)

I went to London’s O2 arena to see ‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition’ where more than 300 artifacts rescued from the shipwreck’s debris were laid out for me to peruse (including parts of the ship itself, crockery and personal belongings such as top hats and perfume bottles.) Historically accurate room recreations are also showcased.

You are given a White Line boarding card at the start of your Titanic journey with the name of a real passenger and a few other details on it. This makes the tragedy even more real and distressing for you, when at the end you search for ‘your’ name on the passenger lists of survivors and victims (alas, ‘I’ – little Hanora Heggerty, from County Cork, did not make it.)

There is also a chance to pose in front of a green screen where a photographer will superimpose your image onto the bottom of the Titanic’s sweeping main staircase – obviously I forced Jack (Yes!! A real life Jack!!) to do this with me.

You have the opportunity to read many compelling testimonials from survivors and poignant stories about those who did not, and an opportunity to touch a real piece of the ship.

Despite the walls being a little text heavy and the constant, eventually mind numbing, fiddle music playing throughout the exhibition, the show is both informative and moving.

On until Sept 1st.

Too Many Women

thelondonchatter — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:17:00 +0000

The totals are now in - a group of my girlfriends and I managed to raise nearly £11,000 at our 'Spring Fling' fundraiser last month, held at Guy Pelly's PUBLIC nightclub. All this money will go towards Harry Beecher's Two Many Women Campaign - raising money for Breast Cancer Research.

Thank you to all those who donated raffle prizes (which included goodies from Mulberry, Temperley, Jimmy Choo - to name but a few!) for the generous donations and for everyone who came down and helped to make it a really fun night.

Here are some pictures from the night;

Musical Moment - SoKo ('I'll Kill Her')

thelondonchatter — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 22:23:00 +0000

I love this song by SoKo - featured in a 2007 Stella McCartney fashion show – her frank, unapologetic threats to the blonde girl who is now dating the man she has imagined, in psychotic depth, to be ‘the one,’ are issued with the most perfectly distant, ‘I don’t give a damn’ attitude, that only a French girl can pull off.
http://www.myspace.com/mysoko

"I would have met your friends, we would have had a drink or two
They would have liked me, coz sometimes i'm funny..."

Pizza East Meets West

thelondonchatter — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:20:00 +0000

The ever-expanding Soho House Group has once again added to its empire, this time with Pizza East Portobello, the sibling to Pizza East Shoreditch. Towards the end of Portobello Road, the restored Georgian pub is now a light, airy, hip New York style restaurant, takeaway and deli.

With wooden floors and antique café style furniture, the atmosphere is laid back and perfect for dinner with friends; its been an instant hit with the Yummy Mummies and Beautiful Young Things of Notting Hill.

I visited last night with my girlfriend Beatrice - we met early for a school-like tumbler of prosecco, some green olives and a good gossip before her husband and Jack joined us. 3 tumblers later (they were late!) we were ready to attack the menu. Despite their wood-fired Pizza being the obvious lure (toppings include crispy pork belly, tomato and mushroom) it was the antipasto menu I found truly delicious and would recommend.

Dynamo - Magician Impossible (and INCREDIBLE!)

thelondonchatter — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 19:24:00 +0000

Never ask your boyfriend what to wear to a party. I made this mistake last year when attending Jack’s friend’s wedding in Long Island. He had lost the invitation but told me it was a black tie event and I dressed accordingly; a sweeping, long sleeved, jewel pink Issa London dress. Apart from myself, and the bride, every other woman at this wedding was wearing black. That was one helluva long night.

So I cannot believe I made the same ridiculously naïve mistake before attending the WTA Tour Pre-Wimbledon Party, hosted by Holly Branson, at The Roof Gardens in Kensington. Running late from meetings, with little time to research the event, I asked Jack, who had attended this party before, the dress code. I was told it was “very casual, Babe.”

Turning up in skinny BDG black jeans and a Broad Anglais long sleeved top (from Staring At Stars) I was instantly surrounded by shimmering and glistening cocktail dresses and towering Nicholas Kirkwood heels everywhere I looked (which was not very far considering I was in flats by Pretty Ballerinas and was eye level with most other girl’s hips.) With the WTA and the British Fashion Council partnering together, this occasion was anything but casual… Babe. My heart sunk and Jack ran for his life (not for the hills, to the bar.)

After squeezing past many of the stilettos and sequins (Maria Sharapova in Alexander McQueen, you are SO NOT helping matters) my manhunt for Jack was halted by bumping into someone equally as casual and equally as short, Bradford magician, Dynamo. Knowing there is power in numbers, he instantly, however unwittingly and momentarily, became my NBF in the room.

After witnessing him tapping Sam Branson on the back three times, and his girlfriend, the beautiful Isabella Calthorpe, with her eyes tightly shut, convinced that it was her back being tapped, Dynamo soon had the rapidly growing crowd around him, both mesmorised and dumbfounded. But this was just a teaser - his new television series, ‘Dynamo: Magician Impossible’ is ridonkulous. Already with a fan base including Chris Martin and Will Smith, the first episode has him levitating Matrix-stylie, throwing mobile phones into empty beer bottles and walking on the River Thames... ON the River Thames!!

After watching an episode of Dynamo's magic with me, my Father decided he must be from another planet… And I tend to think this could be the only reasonable explanation.