Self Distancing/Timering... 💙
My pals at Chinti and Parker are donating 100% of the profits from their Anni Heart Collection to Meals for the NHS, a not for profit initiative who partner with local restaurants to ensure our frontline heroes get the delicious and nourishing food they need to tackle their arduous 18-hour, life-saving shifts... #HelpOurHeroes
I’m really relieved the members of the House of Commons Commission have decided that the proposed £500,000 needed to get Big Ben to chime in Brexit on January 31st, is money that would (obviously) be better spent elsewhere... Namely, the NHS - something we need to protect and prioritise with all our might, because you never know how much you rely upon it, until suddenly, you’re really bloody relying upon it.
8 days ago, I arrived at the hospital my mother had been brought to... We are still sitting tight in ICU, and taking each day, with their varying complications and long words, as they come, but I was totally blown away by the rapid response of the emergency services - the paramedics even came to check on me at the end of their shift, despite, I imagine, having had pretty exhausting days themselves. Similarly, the nursing staff, despite being run-ragged on their long shifts in a desperately underfunded arena, have been consistently compassionate, skilled and reassuring. These everyday heroes, deserving of our raised voices of support, see hundreds of people every week, but their faces are the ones that stay with us forever.
A happier day by the sea…
Photography: Ollie Ali
I’ve been asked about my thoughts on Black Friday so much today and honestly, I feel it would be remiss of me, despite the threat of increased carbon emissions this weekend, to tell people to boycott it, considering I am in the lucky position to enjoy various discounts/loans throughout the year from my relationships within the fashion industry. I’m also aware that Christmas time can be expensive, not everyone can afford the wardrobes/beauty products/home wear they wish for at full price, and generous sales at this time can be insanely helpful. What I would encourage, however, is a level of Conscious Consumerism, where we all make really considered purchases, in spite of the excessive amount of enticing deals, to avoid buying unnecessary items destined for landfill. SO... My advice?
Make a list of what you actually need. For Christmas in particular, I find jewellery discounts to be the most helpful (Monica Vinader and Missoma are two old, firm faves of mine) but try and not deviate off track and make impulse purchases. In the moment, it's so easy to feel seduced by all the deals, so ask yourself two questions;
Will I use this item more than 30 times?
Would I be buying this if it weren't on sale?
And, if your answer is no, pop it back.
2. If there is an expensive, investment (*the key word here) item you have been waiting to buy (a television, a new duvet, or in my case, a new camera) then this is of course, a great opportunity to enjoy a discount.
3. This could also be a great to time of year to try sustainable brands, which can be, for many, not as affordable as high-street options at other times of the year - I love Veja and Chinti and Parker.
4. Ask yourself, do I actually need anything?! Mending and not spending is the most sustainable thing you can do when it comes to refreshing your wardrobe, and many second hand/vintage/pre-loved shops/websites also have deals going on, ones which cause no further impact to the environment.
5. Lastly, consider renting rather than buying (check out My Wardrobe HQ and Hurr) if looking for a new festive one/off look with no eco/buyer’s remorse the next day!
Go forth, and be mindful out there in the crazy, y’all…
It was 2009 and Sienna, still at the top of her boho game, was wearing a pair of Russell and Bromley slouchy, studded brown suede biker boots with everything from skinny jeans to floaty dresses... And we ALL wanted a pair. The boots sold out three times before I finally managed to get my lil’mitts on a pair, but they were well and truly worth the wait. This was my first introduction to the much-loved British brand, and similar to Russell and Bromley’s other classic styles, all known for their famed Italian craftsmanship, my boots were seriously hardwearing, accessibly stylish and incredibly versatile… I wore them for years.
With important conversations currently happening within the fashion industry, in regard to our planet, I feel we should all now be far more conscious with our clothing consumption, and make sure each item we purchase is one we intend to wear a lot and for a long time. This is why I was particularly excited to partner with Russell and Bromley and share with you some of my favourite styles from their current SS’19 collection, because I really believe their classic styles, however fashionable, have real wardrobe longevity.
Several of the new designs caught my eye, and I love the chic caramel tones which flow through the collection, and the laser-cut bucket handbags really stand out. I eventually decided however, that the Trickle Sandals, the Impulse Courts and the Rafferty bag were my must-haves for when the sunshine finally puts his hat back on, and choices that will be just as useful this summer, as the next.
I was immediately drawn to the wonderfully chic mule style leather Trickle Sandals, with their decorative ring trim. This classic tan style will easily take me from day to night in the city this Summer, yet also making for the perfect holiday companions. Unlike many other on-trend summer shoes available on the high street, I feel that this particular pair of slides are also a real investment, as year in and year out, this iconic shape will never go out of style.
The Rafferty, to me, screams summer. Crafted from luxurious natural raffia fabric, this practical, and surprisingly affordable, top-handled ‘grab bag’ will be paired with both my floaty summer dresses, and linen trousers alike; a real sunny, everyday staple.
The other pair of stylish, yet investment-worthy, shoes I am eager to wear on the upcoming (we hope!) sunnier days, are the Impulse sling back courts. There is something both gorgeously nostalgic about this style, with their brown crocodile printed leather, yet also contemporary, with their more modern, covered block heel. Perfect for work, and my smarter meetings, these flattering shoes can be worn with both dresses and trousers, well into October (before my ankles go back into hibernation…)
In Partnership with Russell and Bromley
Photography: Joseph Galvin
Hair and Make Up: Secret Spa London
Clothing: Chinti and Parker
If you (like me) have been unusually disorganised with your Christmas shopping this year, fear not! With the always epic Net a Porter sale starting this week, our disorganisation might just have have paid off!
To save you some time, I’ve scoured the entire site and created a small edit of my favourite pieces (some of which you may have already seen me wearing over 2018…)
After much kicking and screaming, this wannabe hipster eventually managed to drag herself away from the most spoiling, sun-soaked suite and jars of flakey croissants at The Rose Hotel, Venice... It was NOT easy!
The Rose Hotel, a little low-key Venice Beach gem, was originally designed in 1908 by Abbott Kinney, has had a recent, and most perfect, renovation by fashion photographers Glen Luchford and Doug Bruce. Once a notorious 'late night hangout' frequented by the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Jim Morrison, the hotel has maintained many of the original features, such as the reception's yellow counter slot for the working girl's keys, still in situ amongst the more recent flea market and vintage finds.
I spoilingly stayed in the hotel's Pacific Suite, a 1500 sq ft penthouse, with a massive bay window looking across the broadwalk to the ocean, two bedrooms (both with Queen size beds), linen covered sofas and a lot of too-cool for school art. Aesop bathroom products, the softest stripey sheets and a bottle of rosé in the fridge (thank you Mr & Mrs Smith!), all helped to make my brief two night stay in the always characterful Venice Beach perfectly chilled.
Firstly, ALL hotels (and boyfriends) should provide designated little black make up towels to prevent the always inevitable, mascara and foundation induced 'White Towel Guilt.' I know, a total bathroom epiphany! Secondly, I brought some Ouai hair products with me to California to try (specifically, the hair oil and texturising spray) and HOLY MOLY they smell incredible - go get'em!
"We never set out to create the perfect hotel; our walls are thin, and the building is wonky... But its not like any other hotel. And we like it just like it is." Glen Luchford and Doug Bruce.
Here is a little video of my stay at The Rose Hotel, Venice Beach...
Ohhhhh those Venice Beach sunsets... (*and ohhhh, those accompanying Margaritas...!)
Thanks to Mr & Mrs Smith for organising my stay.
Just as florals are synonymous with Spring (yes, we know, ground-breaking…), fruit goes hand in hand with the summer. The minute the sunshine puts his hat on, and the rosé has been lined up, we all seem to reach for our most zesty ensembles and juicy accessories.
Pineapples are usually our first fashion go-to, with lemons not far behind (so very D&G), and then there are cherries. Ripe and ruby red, there will always be something a little bit more sexy and a little bit more playful about this fruity print, and my faves Chinti and Parker have provided this one of our fashion five a day in droves this season.
I’m a massive fan of Chinti and Parker’s whimsical cashmere designs, and recently I was treated to the most GAWGEOUS Ivory Cherry Silk Shirt (RRP. £275.00) which has fast become one of the most useful items in my wardrobe; Cool when its hot, warm when it cool - but always lots of fun! The shirt also has matching pyjama style trousers if you’re feeling that extra bit fruity.
I recently wore the shirt whilst on a #TLCVacation in Nice, staying at Les Roches Rouges. I paired the shirt with my red ASOS skirt, Dolce & Gabanna retro cat eye sunnies and my new favourite shoes; my Drilles.
These unisex, handmade leather espadrilles, created by British fashion journalist Amy Williams, are available in a plethora of chic colours (my favourites being Rio Red and Portobello Pink) are set to be THE shoe of the summer. Get ‘em while you can from Barr and Bass (RRP. £155.00).
I do love an eclectic mix, but this particular concoction of leopard print, cashmere, pink and brocade might just be up there as one of my favourite clothing cocktails to date.
I immediately fell in love with this woollen ASOS coat and the contrast of its powerful leopard print faux fur alongside the lady like dusky pink is elegantly eye-catching. I have always loved Shrimps coats, and one day I willllll have one, but this one is so affordable (especially now, in the sale) and I’m mostly wearing it paired with complimentary berry colours and neutrals. These plum coloured Donna Ida dungarees worn under an oatmeal cashmere Chinti and Parker ‘Good Girl’ jumper (now also in the sale) definitely let the leopard print details of the coat do all the talking/growling.
I’m wearing these brocade ASOS Hena Heels as much as I can, day or night, and even with some plain black socks if too chilly (which let's face it, it is!) These have to be the most comfortable heels, and made from the most monarchical of textiles, there is something so brilliantly grand about them.
Photography: Ella Sadika
The team at Auree recently interviewed me about our Tembo Collection collaboration in support of For Rangers, and why it was a cause so close to my heart. I thought I would also share the answers with you here on TLC…
‘We are excited to be collaborating with Kelly Eastwood on our first charity collection. As major advocates of travel, flair and colour – we’ve long been fans of The London Chatter, which is why its been a delight to create The Tembo Collection to raise money and awareness in the fight against Elephant poaching. So a second first for The Auree Journal, we thought a good chance for a cuppa and a Q+A. Move over Parky...'
What was it like to grow up in Africa and how has it influenced you?
It was really magical; the animals, the epic landscapes, the beautiful beaches, the amazing mix of cultures. From an early age I was always aware of ‘the bigger picture’ and as such, however exciting and frivolous the whirlwind I sometimes find myself in, I always feel pretty grounded.
Tell us how the collaboration with Auree came about?
Having worn a personalised Auree bracelet rather religiously for about a year before finally meeting Amelia, we decided to meet for breakfast so I could learn more about the brand. It became apparent we both wanted to do a charity collection, and over avocado and eggs we not only decided to collaborate, but had already started sketching designs before the bill had even arrived. Amelia was very supportive over my plea to support the conservation efforts for elephants in Africa, a huge passion of mine. We agreed that neither myself or Auree would make a bean out of the collaboration, with all profits going directly to For Rangers, a wonderful campaign started by friends of mine back home.
How did your Kenyan roots inspire the Tembo collection?
Since I was a child, I’ve always been absolutely in awe of elephants; rather than Nellie the Elephant it was Kelly the Elephant! As well as going on safari regularly, I would frequently visit the orphaned ele’s at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust near where I grew up in Nairobi, which allowed me from an early age to be acutely aware of the heartbreaking effects of poaching. As I’ve got older, many of my friends now work in conservation, and I’ve learnt so much more through them.
I love Maasai beads and the design of our bracelets were inspired by the single white Maasai bead bracelet I usually wear. The beads are so synonymous with the tribal, nomadic cultures back in Kenya, that it seemed an obvious element to incorporate into the jewellery, through the textured circular bead effect. I also now have permanent Maasai beading around my ankles, put on by the Samburu mamas at Ol Malo, a family-run ranch in Laikipia, which I regularly flaunted at London Fashion Week – paired with some good old Jimmy Choos naturally!
You are a frequent wildlife campaigner, what attracts you most about the important work For Rangers and Tusk carry out?
I think it’s the urgency, and the respect. Make no mistake, this is ultimately a war – a battle to save some of the most iconic wildlife before it’s too late, and it’s the rangers who are on the front line of this fight, daily risking their lives for these animals. For this reason, they deserve our recognition and support. Earlier this year I visited Kenya’s beautiful Lewa conservancy, where I saw Edward Ndiritu (who was awarded with Tusk’s inaugural Wildlife Ranger Award, presented by Prince William in 2015) and his team awarded with silver pins of honor for their outstanding work, and the pride was tangible.
For Rangers is a really small, grass roots campaign, with no overhead costs. It’s headed by passionate, knowledgeable people who have taken on extraordinary challenges to raise both money and awareness (including the Marathon de Sable and the Peruvian Jungle Run). Given that I’m hardly renowned for my athleticism (I’ve not moved quicker than a strut since the mid-90’s), I thought I would be better suited to help the cause accessorising not exercising…!
What has been your most memorable experience in Africa?
I’m having a stream of flashbacks of both the most exhilarating and also peaceful moments. Aside from my sister’s week long beach wedding near our home, and regularly visiting the Giraffe Manor’s endangered Rothschild giraffe after school when I was young, I would say anytime I’ve been lucky enough to go on safari. Watching a sensational African sunset, G&T in hand (obviously), with that buzz of wildlife around you, is beyond humbling, and for me, completely calming
What are your little black book entries and insider advice for anyone looking to visit Kenya?
in Nairobi. If you’re not staying as a guest at this beautiful house, I would definitely try and book in advance to have afternoon tea there amongst the endangered Rothschild giraffe that live at the sanctuary. I would obviously recommend you go on safari to enjoy the exceptional wildlife we’re so desperately trying to preserve, and Richard’s Camp in the Maasai Mara is really great fun. For unforgettable experiences with the nomadic Samburu communities, both Ol Malo and Sasaab offer unbeatable opportunities. I would also head to the coast. Some of Kenya’s long, white sandy beaches are rated amongst the best in the world. Watamu, a pristine marine reserve, is perfect for a family holiday, and not too far from Mombasa, where you can spend an evening sailing along the twinkling lit coast on the Tamarind Dhow.
What are your must have items that you pack in your suitcase for a trip to Kenya?
Inside my vintage-style Brics Suitcase, I always carry my Ali Lamu safari bag so I can decant and travel light from within Kenya at a moment’s notice. A good pair of Penelope Chilvers safari boots are imperative, and I love my massive Winser London massive cashmere for both the airplane and for enveloping myself in on those chilly early morning game drives on Safari. When the suns up, I’m always prepared with a good straw trilby from Jess Collett Milliner, my tortoiseshell Taylor Morris Zero sunglasses, a bikini or two from Beach Cafe, a Pitusa kaftan, my Sisley Paris Factor 50 and a kikoi bought locally from a beach stall. Rae Feather does some great personalised beach baskets and I throw everything haphazardly into one of those.
Tell us about your most treasured piece of jewellery and the story behind it.
A Victorian pearl and sapphire heart-shaped locket in the shape of a heart. My childhood best friend passed away when we were eighteen, and her mother gave it to me. There are flowers in the the back of it which my friend pressed and helped put in there when she was four. It’s my treasure of treasures.
What do you love most about your job?
In or out of London, I love the variety of the people I meet in such different fields, and being witness to such differing creativity. This platform has not only given me the ability to talk about and share the things I love, but also to champion the causes that are close to my heart, which is something I really focus on.
How would you describe your personal style?
Always colourful, always with lipstick (Tom Ford’s Plum Lush) and always with a touch of leopard print.
By Day: Topshop boyfriend jeans, Rose Rankin sneakers, over sized Boden linen shirts and Chinti and Parker cashmere (I particularly love their new Miffy collaboration – too cute!) I carry all my work and laptop in the tortoiseshell Aspinal of London Editor’s Bag – it’s so chic and even charges my phone – next level!
By Night: Jimmy Choo heels or L.K Bennett boots, Hill & Friends Tweency bag, and a swooshing Matthew Williamson dress. A blow dry or ethereal braids by Clo and Flo ups my glam game considerably.
What are your style tips for wearing jewellery?
I love stacking and mixing metals, which is why I particularly love the Tembo Collection – you can mix and match the colours and stack them together which looks great, yet still unfussy.
Shop the entire Tembo Collecton HERE.
#TLCxAuree
I can’t even tell you how spoiling it was to stay at The Hari, London during London Fashion Week… But I can try! At a time where I zoom around like a mad thing, keeping to a tight schedule with multiple outfit changes for varying shows and events, it was a total dreeeeam to have The Hari, a little gem of a hotel in London’s Belgravia, as my beyond comfortable base, with their phenomenally helpful team on hand to make sure I was as Happy as Larry… So happy in fact, that actually leaving was pretty heartbreaking!!
Above: Checking in with my Rimowa Limbo Suitcase and personalised Tephi Garment Bag.
There are 85 bedrooms, including 14 luxury suites, at The Hari, created in an almost Mad-Men’esq way by leading British interior designer Tara Bernerd. Think plush velvets, hardwood oak floors, eclectic furnishings, marbled bathrooms… Heaven!
Above: Now that's a welcome! Being met in my rooms by bubbles, truffles and and an indulgent LFW Survival Kit which included treats from Biscuiteers, Ren, and a Sunday's Mini Moon eye mask.
The Hari was perfectly located for me to zip in and out of town without any hassle, being only a five-minute walk to Knightsbridge tube station, or quick ride in an Uber... But juuuust about far away enough from all the buzz to really be able to zone out and relax when needed.
Above: My Sisley Paris beauty products and Tom Ford make up looked more than at home in my chic marble bathroom at The Hari. (Jewellery from Laura Gravestock, Missoma and Auree).
The 24-hour room service was a totally blessing - not only did I enjoy the most amazing breakfasts each morning (I quickly learnt I was just MADE to be woken up with fresh orange juice and sea salt porridge with maple syrup), but having delicious, healthy food on hand after long days rushing about grabbing snacks on the go, was incredibly appreciated. (Masini and Chern Barbados Pyjama Set at Apples & Drawers).
The hotel’s impeccable concierge service was utterly amazing, helpfully receiving any of my deliveries and catering to any of my particular whims. I don’t have many particular whims in case you were wondering, but HOW comforting to know that, in case of emergency, they would have been meticulously catered for!
When not spending every possible second at The Hari snuggled up, resting my poor battered feet, there were plenty of chilled areas around the hotel to enjoy a little R&R (and a cocktail or two…) The terrace is particularly gorgeous and bar area was clearly a popular evening option for guests and non guests alike.
Below: Checking Out. Thank you to The Hari for being the ultimate LFW haven to lay my hat (and eight dresses, six pairs of heels, three pairs of boots… and... and...)
