Christmas Time on Regent Street

When being faced with an inevitable bout of last minute Christmas shopping, there is only one place I can head, and that’s Regent Street.  Move over Fifth Avenue and Champs-Elysées, this elegant ‘Mile of Style’ is brim full of covetable international brands, housed beautifully in Grade II listed facades, now welcomes over 7.5 million tourists a year.  Despite its popularity, hustle and bustle, I don’t ever find shopping on Regent Street ever too hectic, but actually a totally enjoyable experience.  Amidst a well curated stretch of flagship fashion heavy weights and a scattering of trusted high street honeys, there is a supreme lack of feisty, jabbing elbows from fellow shoppers, and importantly, plenty of places to get some R&R if you (and your credit card) need a break.  

Last week I dashed to Regent Street for some Christmas shopping and some pre-Christmas lunch pampering. I immediately felt incredibly festive when I arrived, red-cupped Pumpkin Latte in hand, I was so excited to see the street’s famed Christmas lights glistening in the sunshine and the shops looking all sparkling and lush with their over flowing Christmas decorations.

I headed straight to DryBy, a blow dry and nail bar just off Regent Street which offers a capsule collection of five classic hairstyles (I chose ‘The London,’ obvs!) With its dusky pink walls, rose-toned lighting, wooden floors and a marble styling station, the beyond stylish salon is one of the prettiest and chic places to get those follicles spoilt.

DryBy: 74 Mortimer Street, London W1W 7RZ
Blow-Dry’s range from: £28 – £42
Nails range from: £21 – £55

Flicking my glossy, tousled locks (‘coz I’m worth it), my next stop was Space NK on Regent Street for a make-over. I love having my make up done, and the benefit of booking a make-over at Space NK is that your make-up artist has at least half a dozen different brands to choose from, so you really do get the best of the best.

I had my face cleansed and prepped which left my skin feeling glowy, and then made up for my Christmas festivities later that afternoon - LOVE me a professionally flicked cat eye… HOW DO THEY DO IT?!!  A real little discovery of the day was Chantecaille’s Mermaid Eye Colour in Seashell (RRP. £29.00), which can be worn wet or dry as an eye shadow or eye liner. However, despite being on the wish list, this was a day of shopping for others… (“I’ll be back…”)  

TLC Loves… Space NK

Primped and preened, I headed to one of my high street faves, L’Occitane, a brand I was properly introduced to earlier this year, and one I’ve used religiously ever since. Inspired by Provence, one of my favourite places in the world, I’m excited to share my new found L'Occitane love with my family this Christmas. I found lots of brightly wrapped gift collections in the Regent Street store, but inevitably ended up leaving with a selection of my firm favourites to pop under the tree later this week.  FYI: The Lavende Foaming Bath (RRP. £20.00) is magnifique!

TLC LOVES… L’Occitane 

A trip to Regent Street wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Anthropolgie. Breathe in the gooooood, exhale the baaaaaaad… Is there ANY other shop in the world that smells so gawddang good?!  Anthropologie is less of a shopping location, more a sensory experience, igniting all your senses with its rich, artfully packed, variety of treasures.  An average customer’s visit to Anthropologie lasts an hour and 15 minutes, and you can instantly understand why. I am a massive fan of their home wear and you can always find the best presents for your loved ones (and yourself… at it again, oops!)  Alongside buying myself a Safari Beaded Headband (RRP. £32.00), I did get some of my friends and family some pressies too…

TLC Loves... Anthropologie

Shopping bags in hand, I was ready to spin through the revolving doors into the refined British splendour of Hotel Café Royal, a five-star hotel on Regent Street, and the perfect location for a festive feast.  The hotel is looking completely magical, and my girlfriends and I merrily tucked into their Festive Menu, which also has some delicious vegetarian options, beside their opulent Christmas tree. The perfect end to a successful, and stress free shopping day.

In collaboration with Regent Street
Photography:  Ella Sadika

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Credit Buy: Olympia Le Tan x Mr Men

The leader of the coolest book club in town, Parisian designer Olympia Le Tan, has recently paid homage to Roger Hargreave’s 'Mister Men' series and I have never coveted one of her designs more. TOO CUTE! 

 In particular, the ‘Little Mix Chatterbox,’ clutch (RRP. £630.00), with its hand embroidery and Liberty-print lining, could not be more perfect for ol’TLC herself!  Wear with jeans and a simple jumper (I am wearing Enlist's Isabella Kimono Knit) and let this little one do aaall the talking. 

TLC LOVES... OLYMPIA LE TAN

Photography: Ella Sadika

#OOTD: 28.11.16

In celebration of her tenth birthday, Donna Ida created the dungarees of my dreams; the Eliza’s!  Skinny, relaxed and in a coated plum jam colour (loves me some burgundy at this time of the year!) these dunga’s are perfect for my day-to-night lifestyle, pairing them with a cashmere jumper and trainers during the day, and a lacey top, heels and lipstick (I recommend Tom Ford’s ‘Bruised Plum’) by night. Another total Donna Ida hit, which also just so happen to match my Samburu Trust beaded ankles! Clearly meant to be!

Donna Ida Eliza Dungarees in Coated Plum Jam (RRP. £210.00)

I took my Eliza’s for a wee spin around ma’hood, wearing the new metallic threaded Bella Freud 1970 Instarsia Sweater (think, traditional Bella, but after hours) and my new, mini cross-body Meli Melo Rosalina, inspired by Sicily’s traditional wicker baskets - I'm obsessed. 

Meli Melo’s woven leather Rosalia collection come in a variety of shapes and colours (see full collection HERE) and I ummmed and aahhed over the light tan and the black in the mini size for over fortnight, visiting the store on Portobello around five or six times… I finally decided on the light tan and haven’t looked back since. Not only did I not own any bag in this colour, but I love how well it compliments the darker clothing I am emanating more towards, now I’m preparing for hibernation!

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Photography: Ella Sadika

Tatler's Little Black Book Party with Polo Ralph Lauren

A few days before Tatler’s annual Little Black Book Party, I visited Polo Ralph Lauren’s gorgeous new Regent Street Store for a Styling Session with a Polo stylist.  Having an edit already curated for me in my changing room was amazing, and after a glass of champagne and a catch up with some of my fellow Polo Ralph Lauren-clad party goers, we were all interviewed on dating by Tatler’s Sophia Money-Coutts… 

Dressed head to toe in Polo Ralph Lauren I attended the party at the twinkly lit Ours Restaurant on the Old Brompton Road later that week.  Revellers (including Niomi Smart, the Watson to my Sherlock, below) enjoyed many a Beluga Vodka cocktail and maaaany a Gin Mare G&T…

Speaking of the vodka and the gin, thankfully all guests left with a pair of Polo Ralph Lauren sunglasses, which I’m sure proved all too necessary the next morning by everyone… Ouch!

Thank you Tatler for naming me, alongside Lady Violet and Lady Alice Manners, Oliver Proudlock and Tash Oakley, as one of the Best Dressed of the night (HERE).

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The Tembo Collection Launch at Bronte

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Last month I hosted a blogger’s breakfast at Bronte to launch The Tembo Collection (which I wrote about in detail HERE), my seven piece, Masai bead inspired bracelet collaboration with Auree Jewellery.

100% of all profits from the sales of these bracelets will go to For Rangers, a campaign in conjunction with Tusk, which directly helps the brave heroes on the front line of conservation in Africa, who risk their lives daily to protect elephants and other endangered wildlife from extinction.

Above:  With Will Carmichael, one of the founders of Auree Jewellery, outside Bronte on the Strand.

I knew the quickest and most effective way to to spread the good word far and wide, was to gather a group of my most talented digital buddies, and over a breakfast feast of pancakes and avocado on toast (natch), ask them for their help in raising some vital awareness.  Niomi Smart, Liv Purvis, Peony Lim, Emma Bates, Sarah Mikaela and Juliet Angus were amongst the 22 gorgeous ladies who arrived at Bronte, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, and ready to learn more about the collaboration and its goal. 

I knew, having previously visited Bronte for a breakfast meeting earlier in the year and fan-girled over the pretty pink Tom Dixon designed breakfast bar and copper light fixtures, that it was the exact place I wished to have the #TLCxAuree breakfast, and the team there could not have been more accommodating.

The tables were adorned with gorgeous wild flowers arranged by Maua London, and each guest had a personalised engraved bracelet waiting at their place, each with a calligraphy label by Sophia Vaughn. 

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After speaking to everyone about the campaign, and why it one so close to my heart, I showed everyone a short video (below) that I knew would speak volumes louder than I could ever convey. 

“The statistics are unbearable, over a thousand rangers have been killed in the line of duty since 2003. By joining forces with Auree Jewellery and The London Chatter we hope to make a difference, raising funds to ensure that rangers are enabled with good-quality equipment, training and general welfare, including support for the families of rangers killed or injured in the line of duty. These are the men that are risking their lives to save Africa’s iconic species – it is dangerous, tough and thankless work and we must do all we can to help them.”  Sam Taylor, Founder of For Rangers.

By buying these bracelets (£50.00 - £140.00) you will directly be helping to protect elephants across Africa… Now THAT is some guilt free shopping, people! 

www.aureejewellery.com

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Photography:  Ella Sadika

#OOTD: 01.11.16

I think you miiiight have noticed by now, I’m not particularly someone who shies away from a little colour. I am not saying I don’t have my more monochromatic, Skandi-inspired moments, but day to day, colour is what I’m drawn to and it makes me feel brighter and happier.

I love Autumn with its greying skies and flame red and crimson leaves scattering the pavement and parks.  Year after year, the colours I'm more inclined to wear during this season have an overtly British feel to them; mustard, teal and burgundy.  I also this year have been really fond of magenta – a little more vibrant and warm than burgundy but goes equally as well with my other favourites. 

This ASOS cropped-sleeve, fluffy knit encourages me to feel as energetic as it looks, and matches perfectly with my favourite Tom Ford lipstick, ‘Plum Lush.’  Its ruffled neckline is totally on trend and the metallic lined frills act as its own accessory so I only needed to stack some Monica Vinader Signature Bangles.

This peacock teal Fran Coat from L.K Bennett is a total sensation!  The soft wool and cashmere coat literally envelopes you like a cosy dressing gown, and together with the colour-popping magenta, a good pair of Citizens of Humanity dark blue skinny jeans (oh, and a random backdrop of burnt orange and pale gold leaves, no less) guarantees to pack a mean Autumn punch.

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Photography: Ella Sadika

TLC Staycation: The Hari, London

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. 

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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...)

Wonderba&sh

I first became aware of the luxury Parisian label Ba&sh earlier this year when I went to the Royal Chelsea Flower Show with my friend Rosie Fortescue who was wearing one of their striking pink jumpsuits.  Given I love all things Paris and all things Pink, I was soon hooked (or as the French say, ‘ooked).  The label started in 2003 by childhood friends Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief, and together they create those everyday, contemporary yet feminine designs we all wish hung nonchalantly in our wardrobes.

October, as we all know, is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, where many designers and big high street retailers create limited edition items for the cause.  For the third year, Ba&sh has got involved, this year releasing two slogan t’shirts donating all profits to the campaign.  I’ve been living in mine whilst hanging in New York, so c’mon y'all, make like all le cool cats and grab one for yourself HERE (RRP. £55.00).

TLC LOVES... Ba&sh

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Winter Ready with Clarks

This season Clarks has our feet covered… Literally.  With the chillier weather swooping in (my tights were brought back out of their summer slumber only yesterday), this well-known brand has launched a plethora of boots for us to stylishly tackle the winter months in.

There are many new styles available but I decided to road test the new Carleta Lyon Boots in my neighbourhood.  Although available in darker, more wintery hues (navy, black and khaki) I thought I would ease my way into the cool with a tan suede pair, clinging onto the daylight and last rays of sun whilst I can!

As the song goes, these boots were made for walking (unlike most of my shoes which were definitely made for Uber!) The heel height is totally bearable, and my feet were the happiest they’ve been since before Fashion Week and its subsequent hobbling.

“Are you ready boots? Start walking…”

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Photography: Ella Sadika

Hair and Makeup: Secret Spa

Nails: Sophie Gass

In Collaboration with Clarks

AW'16 Trends with Monsoon

With the summer sun setting, and the last of the rosé having been plied from my hand, it is now time to embrace Autumn.  According to The Great Gatsby himself, "life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall," and after the inevitable boho wisp, wander and pom poms you were likely adorned in over the last few months, it’s probably time your wardrobe had its seasonal revamp too.  Luckily, the first of the Autumnal drops have arrived on the great British high street and Monsoon have particularly embraced the trends we saw on the AW’16 catwalks back in February.  Although the idea of embracing fashion trends can sometimes worry many of us, this season the key looks were so varied that thankfully there really is something for everyone to enjoy, and at a snip of the runway price!

The catwalks earlier this year were particularly awash with rich velvets, regal ruffles and eccentric florals.  Being an avid fan of all the aforementioned, I was thrilled when I recently visited Monsoon to see that they have perfectly channeled these trends, in such stylish, yet attainable ways.  I decided to style up some of my favourite pieces to share with you, and hopefully you’ll be as inspired as I am to embrace those Pumpkin Spiced Lattes…

As I said, an AW’16 trend to note is velvet.  Taking the lead from Valentino and Ellery, this sumptuous fabric is no longer to be reserved for cocktails parties or goths, but can be incorporated casually into your daywear.  

The Harper Velvet High-Rise Skinny Trousers (£59.00) are so flattering and I found them to be the easiest gateway into experimenting with daytime velvet. Worn with some Electra Simple Flat Chelsea Boots (£49.00) and an oversized Libby Coat (£119.00), I feel the overall look was really relaxed, yet smart enough for my daily meetings.  These trousers are so versatile and can easily be paired with a heel for the evenings.

Full Disclosure:  I loved these Harper Velvet High-Rise Skinny Trousers so much (wearing them with heeled boots on the first day of London Fashion Week) I had to go back after the shoot and buy them in black too...

Taking the velvet trend to the next level, I decided to jump head first into a top-to-toe look, pairing these high-waisted Vivienne Wideleg Trousers (£69.00) with the loose-fitting Arlo Velvet Top (£59.00) which is subtly patterned with a mix of dots, stripes and florals. 

The overall look may be perfect for night, but once worn with some leopard print Bianca Pony Point Ballerina Shoes (£39.00) the outfit instantly became more daytime and casually chic.

The ‘I just raided my Grandmother’s Attic’ vibe on the AW’16 runways was clear for all to see.  From Mary Katrantzou to Kenzo, a wild variety of eccentric, mix-matched, and frequently floral, prints were presented with wild abandon and I for one, was thrilled. As a long-term fan of the flamboyant, nonagenarian fashionista Iris Apfel, and an avid admirer of the unconventional style of Little Edie, you don’t have to ask me twice to get my maximalism on!

I was excited to see Monsoon embrace this quirky Autumnal bloom, and fell pretty hard for their Blythe Devore Print Midi Dress (£129.00) with it’s vintage florals, and three-quarter length sleeves.  I wore this dress with some vintage-inspired heels, and my mother’s old belt from the 1970’s and some bubblegum pink sunglasses (try Illesteva's Leonard Sunglasses) Similar to add some fun colour pops.  For the brave, the addition of a headscarf, or some fishnet ankle socks would certainly ramp up the eccentric notch.

Ruffles will be HUGE this Autumn,  as we saw with JW Anderson through to Gucci.. As a real frill-seeker myself, I snapped up Monsoon’s high-necked Lacey Victoriana Lace Frill Blouse (£59.00) immediately, without passing go, or collecting 200. You can wear this blouse with a vest or slip underneath, or if you’re feeling a little more risqué, a black bra (try Anine Bing's Velvet Bra with Lace Trim or Rossell England's Crescent Bra) and a plum-stained lip (try Tom Ford's 'Wild Orchid'). The cuffed, statement sleeves are particularly regal!

Photography: Eva Salvi

Hair and Makeup:  Secret Spa (with thanks to Dr. Paw Paw)

In Collaboration with MONSOON