SW Fashion

How to keep fit on your hols

2017-07-02T19:06:00.000+00:00

What I wish I looked like when running. Images throughout from Varley (sale now on up to 30% off).

Firstly, I should say that some of you may consider exercising on holiday stark-raving bonkers. "Burpees? When I could be on the beach with a beer? Are you out of your mind?!" I hear you, but hopefully some of you can relate.

In the run-up to my jollies in the Napa Valley, I went a little exercise mad. I signed up to Virgin Active in January and was going five to six times a week before jetting off, pounding the human hamster wheel, formerly known as The Curve, before popping to a class, which could be anything from competitive spinning (seriously) to power yoga.

I felt pretty great, if a tad exhausted from the 5am starts, but soon started to fret about what would happen when I went on holiday. No gym, no classes, no structure? No thanks. In standard Shona style, I imagined I would soon revert to a blob of squidgy, doughy averageness, gaining several pounds and losing any definition I had painstakingly earned. Obviously this thinking is totally irrational, and hopefully none of you are as self-critical, but instead of getting myself into a panic, I worked out a few ways to put my mind at ease.

Wheel goals for days. Image and kit from Varley.

1. YOUTUBE YOSELF

Hey you guys, I've found this really cool website where video-bloggers (if only someone could think of a catchier name) share videos of them doing stuff. I think it may be the future.

Joking aside, I never really 'got' the whole YouTube thing until recently. Back in January, in full New Year New Me mode, I decided I ought to do yoga every (damn) day and, keen to keep things cheap and cheerful, discovered Yoga With Adriene's channel. Perfect for slotting into a busy day, Adriene has hundreds of brilliant videos for all levels. All you need is a mat, a laptop and enough space to avoid head-butting the wall in a failed crow attempt.

What I love about Yoga With Adriene is that you really warm to the woman herself – she is bubbly, enthusiastic and always smiling, and makes me want to be a better person. A better person who can also do a handstand.

I think choosing a YouTube yogi is much like choosing a real-life instructor. My other go-to is the lovely Cat Meffan, who also teaches at Frame. She's down-to-earth, cheerful and relatable, which is why I tend to watch either her or Adriene's videos when on holiday. Both have great power flow videos, which are ideal for getting the heart rate up (this is my favourite from Cat). Particularly in 35 degree heat.

Image and kit from Varley.

2. JUST DO IT

One of my favourite apps in the whole wide world, the Nike Training Club has revolutionised my approach to exercise. With a roster of fun workouts right there at your fingertips, consider it the pocket-sized personal trainer you never had (read: always wanted but could never afford).

Once you've created your account, via one of those nifty 'Log In With Facebook' buttons, you have access to all manner of brilliant guided workouts. You can filter by focus – endurance, mobility or strength – or instead you can browse by type – yoga, athletic, no-equipment etc. Obviously the no equipment workouts are ideal for holidays as you can just do those any time, anywhere.

Personally I tend to stick with the yoga sessions, but there are plenty of other options. The app is also great to use at the gym if, like me, you get a little clueless in the weights section. It's free to download and you can also create a plan over a set period of time, tailored to your fitness goals.

Image and kit from Varley.

3. RUN FOR FUN

A lot of people really hate running, and I was totally one of them until I changed the way I think about running. I used to consider it a necessary evil, a means of burning off excess calories without committing to a class, but these days I think of it as a release.

Headphones in, 'Go Faster Girl' playlist on (yeah, I am that cringe), there's something so relaxing to just run, letting out the stress and emotion of the day one step at a time. The great thing about running – or jogging, or walking – is that you can do it anywhere in the world. If it's too hot to run, just walk. There's no need to feel guilty about it, no need to beat yourself up that you've not hit 10k in 30 mins – you're supposed to enjoy it.

I guess it's about going easy on yourself – knowing your limits and accepting them, rather than pushing them. That's the kind of exercise you need when on holiday – just enough top put your mind at ease and get the endorphins going.

ONE LAST THING...

Looking the part always helps, so here are a few of my favourite pieces from L.A./London label Varley.

Your Heatwave Tool Kit

2017-06-21T15:33:00.000+00:00

Long time, no blog.

I recently met a very well-travelled Swede who advised me I ought to venture to Tulum, Mexico. That night, following several Scandi shots, I decided to Google Tulum in all it's glory. Lush and sun-drenched, it looks like paradise... bar one teeny, tiny detail: it's absolutely scorching, with temperatures regularly topping 35℃.

As a Scottish blonde with translucent skin, I don't do well in such high temperatures, so imagine my horror on discovering that our holiday spot this year (Sonoma, California) is actually hotter than Mexico. 40℃ to be precise. 100°F. I don't really deal in Fahrenheit, but all my American pals (i.e. the lady in WholeFoods who couldn't get enough of my wide-brim hat) tell me 100°F is unheard of.

Pretty. Damn. Hot.

So I'm writing this from California, absolutely melting under the 9am sun, in order to share some of my heatwave hair and beauty essentials. Some old, some new, none borrowed, coz that's ew.

First up: the base. Most of us go for a lighter base when summer comes around: DoubleWear is all well and good in the winter, but seems a bit heavy when stuck on the Central Line in July. In the warmer months, most prefer something a little lighter, with a touch of SPF for brownie points. Some, blessed with smooth, even skin tone and no acne scarring may just plump for tinted moisturiser (lucky little devils).

Personally, I like a foundation with buildable coverage and a smooth, matte finish. However, when a heatwave hits, another problem arises – the make-up slip. Y'know, when your foundation melts like a 99 Whippy on a hot pavement (a 99 cone that probs cost you £4) and everything else follows.

Okay, that's a tad dramatic, but in these climes you need something with staying power. Something downright magical like Armani's new Power Fabric Foundation. Sure, it's spenny, and will cost you more than new trainers, but I like to think it's worth the splurge. It is light as a feather and silky, yet somehow covers every single flaw. I actually forgot I was wearing make-up at one point. I set mine with the Chantecaille HD Perfecting Powder and it doesn't budge all day long. Even when left in the car without air-con, panting like a dog.

If you prefer a lighter formula, I'd suggest trying La Roche Posay's Effaclar Duo+ Unifiant tinted moisturiser, with a touch of NARS Soft Matte Complete concealer (the absolute best concealer I've ever tried) to hide any blemishes.

When it comes to skin, the most important thing, in any climate, is SPF. I think everyone should wear SPF 30+ every single day – it'll save you thousands on fillers in the future. My personal favourite is the Clarins SPF 50 UV Plus Anti-Pollution Day Screen. Used as a primer, the translucent fluid smoothes out the skin without clogging pores. Plus, it doesn't leave a chalky finish, which is unheard of for a factor 50. If we're talking body, I love Coola's Eco-Lux SPF 30 Pina Colada tropical mist. In this kind of heat, you do not want to rub in a thick, creamy lotion, you just want to spray it on and know you won't burn. Coola's ultra-fine spray screens have got it down.

On the subject of spritzing, we need to talk about the mist. Not only is The Mist a Stephen King novel and movie adaptation analysed in my high school Media Studies class, it's also an essential component of any heatwave tool kit. A cooling spray is a beautiful, beautiful thing. There are a few I'd recommend in a heartbeat.

Due to my sensitive skin, any fragranced product renders me ruddy-faced which is why I adore the bliss Triple Oxygen Radiance Restoring spritz. In a word, it feels FRESH and doesn't irritate my skin at all. In a heatwave it is heaven in a bottle, but it's also great to have on standby when you're hungover. Consider it a Berocca for your face. If you can handle natural oils and fragranced products, try Jurlique's best-selling Balancing Rosewater Mist, which smells like a spa treatment, or Caudalie's cult Beauty Elixir spritz. Both will leave you feeling super zen, when all you want to do is plunge into a pool of ice.

Last but not least (yes, this lengthy post is almost over), you simply must have a protective lip balm. Speaking from experience, there are fewer sunburns stingy-er than the lips. For me, you can't beat Jo Malone London's Vitamin E Lip Conditioner, which I shamelessly stole from my dad. It's nourishing, a little glossy but non-sticky, and boasts SPF 15 to keep your pout in tip-top condition. Perfecto.

If, somehow, you do get sunburnt lips, I'd enlist the Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil. Putting oil on your lips sounds, to be honest, a bit gross, but this product is actually amazing and not even remotely oily – I'm slightly addicted to the mint one. It's glossy, nourishing and protective, though it can leave lips a tad sticky. Some people don't mind that, some do. Either way I'd suggest giving it a go.

One last thing. If, like me, tanning does not come naturally to you, I'd suggest trying the James Read Tan Accelerator gel. I will sit in the sun all day, come out a little red and scorched, then apply a layer and suddenly I'm gold (ish). It's essentially a gradual tan-aftersun hybrid, amplifying even the softest sun-kiss. To go further, add a touch of the NARS Laguna Liquid Bronzer to your foundation, or try Kevin Aucoin's Matte Bronzing Veil in Desert Nights, which is the best colour I've used. It's golden, rather than brown, so doesn't look dirty on the skin.

Okay, I'm done, for now. If you've made it to the end, well done. Sit back, relax, treat yoself to some nice new beauty products and maybe some ice cream?

BYREDO UNNAMED

2016-12-22T15:33:00.000+00:00

So, I’ll dive straight in with a product I’m currently obsessed with – Byredo Unnamed Eau de Parfum. Now, anyone who follows me on Instagram or has seen my dressing table will know just how much I adore Byredo fragrances. Created by Ben Gorham, Byredo is the innovative Swedish brand behind some of the most modern and stylish scents around.

As much as I’m a sucker for chic packaging, and nobody does it better than Byredo, the elegant monochrome bottles are just the cherry on top. There’s something so alluring about Byredo fragrances – the names are so evocative, perfectly capturing the essence of each and every unique scent.

Perhaps most iconic are Gypsy Water, an earthy, vibrant scent inspired by bohemians; Bal d’Afrique (one of my favourites), a homage to 1920s Paris and its passion for African culture; and Mojave Ghost (another favourite), inspired by the beauty of the Mojave Desert with top notes of ambrette, a heart of violet, magnolia and sandalwood and a warm base of cedarwood, Chantilly musk and amber.

Another hit is Blanche, an ode to Gorham’s wife, who doesn’t actually wear any fragrance. The scent is subtle but elegant and, ultimately, addictive, with top notes of pink pepper and white rose, a heart of peony, neroli and violet, and a base of blonde wood, musk and sandalwood. In the words of Gorham, Blanche "represents an appreciation for classic beauty.”

Isn’t dedicating a scent to someone such a romantic gesture? Unfortunately, we don’t all have access to our own fragrance house, but that’s where Unnamed comes into the equation. Finished with an immaculate blank label, the limited edition, 10th anniversary scent comes with a letter transfer sheet so you can customise the label with words close to your heart.

There is also a collage of words to inspire, one of which – Lazarus – spurred me to christen mine ‘Queen Bitch’ in honour of the late, great David Bowie. Cherry Velvet, Cosmic Blonde, Posey Daydream, Lilywhite Myth and Violet Solitude were a few contenders, but I think I’ll save those for baby names.

The scent itself is sweet and spicy, with a mysterious touch of blackberry on the nose. At first, it reminded me of Black Saffron (another favourite) with tempting top notes of pink pepper and juniper berry, a powdery violet heart and a mossy base with a touch of fir balsam. I’ve had so many compliments wearing it, something that’s almost guaranteed with any Byredo scent, which is indicative of its universal appeal.

Get yours now, before the bottles sell out, and save it for someone very special.

Strike a Pose

2016-07-23T07:18:00.001+00:00

Voga

At long last summer has arrived in London. I don't know about you, but when the weather is so glorious, I can't abide staying indoors – I literally just want to be outside all the time, particularly when it comes to working out.

Don't get me wrong, even the most sweltering conditions will not deter me from my bi-weekly Psycle classes, but all other indoor activities are off the cards for however long this heatwave continues (I'll give it three days, four tops.)

Thank goodness, then, for all the al-fresco fitness classes in the capital this summer, my pick of which has to be Vogue d'Argent at the Coq d'Argent roof garden in The City.

A feelgood fusion of yoga and Vogueing, Voga is all about stretching and posing to an 80s beat – think yoga with a whole lotta sass. It's genuinely one of the most fun workouts I've ever tried, made all the better by the gorgeous surroundings of the Coq d'Argent roof gardens.

The perfect way to spend a Sunday, there's only one more Vogue d'Argent session to come this summer, a Madonna Party Class on 31st July kicking off at 11am, so I'd snap up a ticket now (£20 here) before they're all gone.

Don't just stand there, let's get to it, strike a pose there's nothing to it.

The Hamptons Top Three

2016-07-16T16:10:00.001+00:00

Sunset in Southampton

Ever since I first visited the US, I have considered myself a California girl. Sure, NYC has its perks, Chicago’s a hoot, but if someone gave me the choice I’d always settle on the Napa Valley. Until I visited The Hamptons, that is.

The Hamptons is one of those destinations met with a bit of an “ooh-er” whenever mentioned, and to be totally honest, I had no idea what to expect when I headed there earlier this year. I’d heard it mentioned in copious US series’, but I’d never considered it a particularly desirable holiday destination, but – trust me – this one’s worth a trip.

Even if you’re just headed to NYC for a break, if you can, I urge you to book a stay in the Hamptons for a few days at the end of your trip. There’s so much to love – here are just a few of my favourite places from my recent trip: five very convincing reasons to visit The Hamptons.

Topping Rose House

Sitting pretty in Bridgehampton, Topping Rose House is one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. It’s one of those picket-fence, All-American dream houses, but it’s more than just a pretty face.

What’s so special about Topping Rose is the relaxed atmosphere: it’s elegant, luxurious and utterly gorgeous, but it doesn’t feel even remotely stuffy. The same can be said for the restaurant, which boasts a delicious, seasonal menu devised by Jean-Georges (the rather splendid chef behind ABC Kitchen in NYC and The Pump Room in Chicago). The food is unfussy but beautifully executed, and there are plenty of healthy options for those of us who may, just may, have overindulged on rose wine and guacamole (a 5pm holiday essential for the Wallace family.)

Plus, all guests can make use of the hotel's bikes – a cycle to Sag Harbor is one of the highlights of my trip.

1 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton, NY 11932. Find out more and book here.

Tutto il Giorno

There are lots of lovely places to dine in The Hamptons, but one of my highlights has to be Tutto il Giorno in Southampton. Southampton has a few lovely places to eat (we loved a brunch at 75 Main – a firm favourite of the Kardashians, which means nothing to me but apparently quite a lot to most people) but Tutto il Giorno takes the biscuit.

With a sister restaurant in Tribeca, Tutto il Giorno is an authentic Italian restaurant serving refined traditional dishes in elegant surroundings. The pasta dishes are full of fresh, vibrant flavours, best enjoyed with an Aperol Spritz in the pretty-as-a-picture garden. We visited at lunch, but I imagine it’s even more special for a dinner date.

56 Nugent Street, Southampton, NY 11968. Find out more and book here.

The Wine Stand

We happened on this place by accident but what a lucky accident that was. We had planned to visit the Wölffer vineyard, which was closed for a private function, and were directed to the winery’s outpost on Montauk Highway.

Open daily during the summer months, the Wölffer Estate Wine Stand is a cute little bar with lots of green space, overlooking the Wölffer vineyard. Serving Wölffer wines and ciders alongside tasty small plates, it’s such a charming, laid-back place with life music and a buzzing atmosphere.

3312 Montauk Highway, Sagaponack, NY 11962. Find out more about Wölffer and the Wine Stand here.

Tahiti Time

2016-04-17T10:22:00.001+00:00

Image courtesy of NARS

Things are hotting up, so it's high time to get your glow on.

If like me, you're stuck on home turf, then you're just going to have to fake it. Thankfully, good old NARS has a solution – its new, Tahiti bronze collection.

Based around the bestselling Laguna bronzer, the limited edition line-up includes glistening body oils, scented shimmering powders and my new hero product: the liquid bronzer (a snip at £28).

Often on pale skintones, bronzing powders can look flat and dirty. A lightweight, silky formula, the bronzing liquid is much easier to work with, blending seamlessly to create the illusion of sun-kissed skin. Add a couple of drops to your foundation for a hint of warmth, or layer it on top of your base and dust with translucent powder for a flawless finish.

Move your fabulous Frame

2016-04-02T07:56:00.002+00:00

It's that time of year again... Skies are blue, temperatures have soared to the blistering heights of 15°c and pretty pink blossoms are populating everyone's Instagram feed.

Sun's out, tums out, and beach body blitzes are (apparently) all we can talk about.

To be totally honest, there are few things more boring than someone banging on about their new diet, so I urge you to buck the trend and focus on fitness instead. Anyone can be skinny, it takes a hella lot of work to be strong.

Step forward, Frame. One of my favourite London studios (with a terribly handy outpost coming soon to Victoria), Frame has always championed a healthy, balanced lifestyle with fun classes – SkiFit or 80s aerobics, anyone? – and a whole host of events and workshops with major players in the industry. What's more, last year they joined forces with Whistles to launch a collection of trend-led activewear to slot seamlessly into your lifestyle.

This month sees the arrival of the second collection, and it's every bit as charming at the first. Designed with ease of wear in mind, each and every piece is crafted from lightweight, breathable materials to take you from barre to brunch in style.

So much more than sports-luxe, Frame X Whistles caters to women who are as conscious of fashion as they are fitness, tapping into key trends such as the cold shoulder and sticking to an understated, neutral palette.

My personal picks are the signature Pip crop top and the Joan jumpsuit – named after Frame's co-founders, Pip Black and Joan Murphy – but there's something in the collection for everyone.

It's no secret that looking good makes you feel good, so why not give your kit a little TLC?


1. Pip Black cropped top £35 (shop below) 2. Whistles silver Portland backpack £295 (shop below) 3. Studio leggings £55 (shop below) 4. Whistles perforated white leather trainers £115 (shop below)

She's not like a regular mum – she's a cool mum

2016-03-03T11:37:00.002+00:00


1. Byredo Loose Lips Candle £50 here 1. Orelia disc lariat pendant £18 here 3. Alex Monroe for Liberty pineapple pendant £150 here 4. Byredo Blanche EDP £90 here 5. Illesteva rose gold sunglasses £140 here 6. Meli Melo Aloe silk scarf £150 here 7. Malone Souliers rainbow sandals (LOVE this brand) £545 here 8. Kate Spade recipe journal £45 here 9. Fornasetti Flora candle (the cool way to do flowers) £115 here 10. Rogues brogues exclusive to Harvey Nichols £170 here 11. Luxe City Guides Europe gift box £35 here 12. Anya Hindmarch rainbow shoulder bag £695 here 13. Carven skirt £240 here 14. Delfina Delettrez multi-stone earring £450 here 15. Iosselliani gold-plated earrings £95 here							2

Mother's Day is just around the corner, but it's not too late to make your lovely mum's day as special as possible.

I don't doubt for one second that your mum is every bit as chic as you are – so make darn sure your gift matches up.

The golden rule for golden children? If you wouldn't want it yourself, it simply isn't good enough for mum.

If you've left it a touch too late to buy a present, you can get creative with experiences for Sunday. Why not arrange an at-home Champagne Afternoon Tea with finger sandwiches, homemade scones and an assortment of scrumptious cakes and sweets? Or maybe you could spoil her silly with a beautiful bouquet and a spot of brekkie in bed?

Pop over to my Pinterest for lots of recipe ideas.

P.S.
Keep your eyes peeled over the coming days for Sugarfina at Harvey Nicks. Launching exclusively this month, you can expect Bento-style boxes choc-a-block with Champagne gummy bears, Kir Royale truffles and chocolate-dipped bacon toffees. Perhaps, you could write Mum and IOU? She's such a sweetie, after all.

Three Places to Brekkie This Month

2016-02-23T20:22:00.000+00:00

Dickie Fitz in Fitzrovia

If you follow me on Instagram (or any social media, for that matter) you will know that I have three main obsessions: puppies, flowers and, last but not least, brunch.

Brunch is the most important made-up meal of the day, and it's big business in London. After all, what else is there to do on a Sunday morning?

I had every intention to post this at the beginning of February but life got in the way, so here you have it: three brunch spots to try this month (okay, two brunch, one brekkie), three weeks later than planned.

Better late than never, right?

1. Andina

Andina Replensih menu

Inspired by traditional Peruvian cuisine, Martin Morales' menu at Andina boasts some of the most exotic, exciting brunch dishes in the city.

This year, Mr. Morales has collaborated with fitness buff Harry Jameson to create the Replenish menu, comprising an array of nourishing dishes to enjoy pre- or post-workout. Just the ticket after a Body by Frame session, standout plates include the steak with eggs and avo and the Claras Claritas – an egg white omelette topped with sweet potato and amarillo chilli. My pick has to be the oat, quinoa and kiwicha granola with Greek yogurt, lucuma purée and maca (pictured).

1 Redchurch Street, E2 7DJ.
Find out more and book a table here.

2. Dickie Fitz (Brekkie not Brunch, but still darn tasty!)

Hot smoked salmon with slow-poached eggs, muffins and hollandaise at Dickie Fitz

A bright, shiny opening from the land Down Under, Dickie Fitz is a new, Instagram-friendly brasserie opening this month in Fitzrovia. With Sydney-born chef Matt Robinson at the helm, Dickie Fitz proves you can't beat an Aussie brekkie.

Though there is not a specific brunch offering just yet, the breakfast menu boasts ultra-healthy bowls such as the spiced fruit salad, laced with caraway, and slightly naughtier plates including zucchini fritters with grilled halloumi and the scrumptious-sounding buttermilk waffles, studded with salted peanuts and topped with fresh strawberry syrup. But, please note, this one actually only serves breakfast – NOT brunch. You can enjoy the aforementioned delights until 10.30am on weekdays, 11am on Saturdays – so it's one for the early risers.

Dickie Fitz, 48 Newman Street, W1T 1QQ.
Find out more and book a table here.

3. Bernardi's

Brunch pizette at Bernardi's

Having spent a few summers in Italy, I have grown very fond of traditional Italian cooking. If you are in a similar boat, you'll be delighted to hear about the new weekend brunch menu at Bernardi's in Marylebone, where you can now enjoy pizza for breakfast until 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Pizette toppings include spinach with soft egg; n'duja with egg and basil; and devilish chocolate and hazelnut. Also worthy of note are the banana bread with lemon curd; scrambled eggs with Cornish crab and courgette fritters with avocado and tomato. Plus, you can have your brunch with some punch – make mine the rhubarb Bellini.

62 Seymour Street, W1H 5BN.
Find out more and book a table here.

Date Night Dynamite

2016-02-01T15:15:00.001+00:00

1. Olympia Le Tan Kiss Kiss clutch £677.50 at The Outnet here
2. Christopher Kane love heart macramé lace dress £2845.00 at Harvey Nichols here
3. Noir Jewellery earrings £48.19 at The Outnet here
4. Hourglass Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Euphoric Strobe £34.00 here
5. Tom Ford Patent Finish Lip Colour in Stolen Cherry £38.00 here
6. Bionda Castana for LK Bennett heels - launching on 11th February here
7. Orelia thread through heart pendant £12.00 here
8. Noir jewellery interlocking ring £27.50 here

Pucker up ladies – Valentine's is just around the corner!

So whether you've got yourself some dreamboat boyfriend, whisking you off to some glamorous getaway, or you're a single pringle ready and raring for a good old night out, make sure you dress to thrill.

Christopher Kane's beautiful macramé lace dress has totally stolen my heart and I would do anything to make it mine. Partnered with a lovey-dovey Olympia Le Tan clutch and Bionda Castana's flirty scalloped shoes from their upcoming collab with LK Bennett, it's totally 'The One'.

Beauty-wise, it's all about replicating that candelit glow with a little help from Tom Ford and Hourglass. Contour below the cheekbone with Tom Ford's cult Shade and Illuminate palette, add a little peachy-toned blush and finish with a light dusting of Hourglass' Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder along the high points of your face to capture the light (and, you know, everyone's hearts).

Finish off your look of love with the new Patent Finish Lip Colour from Tom Ford. The innovative, formula combines the staying power of a stain with a tempting high-shine finish. In the most ravishing red, Stolen Cherry is ideal for date night.

Kisses all round!

Valentine's Gifts for Borderline Hipster Boyfriends

2016-01-29T19:59:00.002+00:00

1. Murdock Luxury Full Service £120 here
2. Ray Ban sunglasses £115 here
3. Nikka Pure Malt Black Japanese Whisky £53 here
4. Uniform Wares watch £680 here
5. Sloane Stationery Notebook £39 here
6. Byredo Mister Marvelous Cologne £185 here
7. Fantastic Man: Men of Great Style and Substance book £29.95 here
8. Mac & Wild Auld Pal bottled cocktail £29.95 here

Buying for boys is never easy. Particularly buying for boys on Valentine's Day. They have it so easy, don't they? They just need to look on your Pinterest 'Wishlist' board and they're sorted. Boys are not so simple, particularly not super picky hipster boys.

I've come to the conclusion, having attended a fair few blogger events in my youth (ah – the golden days), that most young, fashion girls have fittingly handsome, beared, borderline hipster boyfriends. Usually on hand to hold the camera when she needs her #ootd or whatever the kids call it these days.

While I am currently sans-boyfriend, and am rather more excited at the prospect of deep fried Mars bar pancakes at chic Scottish (words which usually don't go together) eatery Mac & Wild, I feel like I understand this thoroughly modern breed of man.

So, if you've not yet settled on something for your special someone, I've picked out a few options.

The Best Food in Shoreditch: Oklava

2015-12-30T11:03:00.000+00:00

Image from oklava.co.uk

Make no mistakes – I love Kate Moss. However, Kate once said something a bit silly: "Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels." Oh Kate... It seems my darling Mossy had not yet tried a Turkish pide by Selin Kiazim at her glorious new Shoreditch outpost, Oklava, which I can 100% confirm tastes miles better than it feels to be skinny.

Granted it's not the most detox-friendly plate for kicking off 2016 but who actually cares? Life is too short to subsist solely on buddha bowls and green goddess this-that-and-the-other. It's all about the 80/20 rule – and Oklava is one place to check out when you're in the mood for some mouthwatering good food.

Left: Wild seabass, lamb cutlets, pearl barley with sour cherries and crispy kale, Cypriot pastirma, prawns with garlic, chilli and fennel seed.
Right: Sour cherries and pearl barley with crispy kale, chilli butter and cheese.
Image from oklava.co.uk

The ethos of Oklava is to change the perception of Turkish food in the city, introducing traditional dishes with a modern twist to the ever-evolving London restaurant scene. The menu is brimming with exotic, perfectly executed contemporary Turkish dishes, including the signature Lahmacun pide, the sour cherry-studded pearl barley salad and citrus-spiked monkfish.

Highlights on the menu include the aforementioned Lahmacun pide. This signature dish comprises a thin pizza base, topped with a light layer of fragrant lamb mince, and a bowl of fresh, vibrant salad and pickles. The idea is to pour the salad down the middle of the pide, roll it up like a wrap and cut into two. It really is delicious, and easily one of the best dishes I've tried in London.

Left: Brunch at Oklava.
Right: Pide with braised octopus, ricotta, green olives, honey, picked caper shoots and thyme.
Image from oklava.co.uk

Also worthy of note are the courgette, feta and mint fritters, the spicy red lentil köftes and the spicy lamb köfte lavash. The exclusively Turkish wine list is a real delight and the desserts are truly scrumptious – the light-as-a-feather pistachio sponge with caramelised white chocolate is nothing short of dreamy, and word has it the spiced rice pudding brulée is even better.

The atmosphere is constantly buzzing, particularly if you nab a seat at the bar where you can watch budding superchef Selin Kiazim and co hard at work. There are also plenty of options for vegetarians – not a boring veggie burger or goats cheese and chutney in sight – making it a great place to bring a group of friends.

Left: Yogurt and honey parfait, williams pear granita and chestnut kadayif dolma.
Right: Chocolate, prune and cardamom delice, bergamot cream and praline.
Images from oklava.co.uk

Beautiful food matched with a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere: what's not to love? If you have a restaurant bucket list, make sure you save a spot for Oklava – you won't regret it.

Find out more about the restaurant at www.oklava.co.uk or follow on twitter @OKLAVA_LDN for updates. You can book a table online here.

Oklava, 74 Luke Street, EC2A 4PY.

Please note that the restaurant is closed over New Years and will reopen on Tuesday 5th January. Oklava is also open for brunch at the weekends, but it is always closed on Mondays.

The Cult Beauty Products That Actually Live Up to The Hype

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1. NARS Audacious mascara £21.00 here
2. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Cheat pencil £16.00 here
3. Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish hot cloth cleanser limited edition pink pepper and mint £20.75 here
4. Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder foundation £50.00 here
5. Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector in Apricot Shimmer £18.00 here
6. YSL Touché Eclat Kiss & Love limited edition £21.25 here
Anya Hindmarch makeup pouch, £225.00 at Selfridges (how gorgeous!)

Working in the fashion media, surrounded by magazines, websites, bloggers and Instagram hype, it's hard to know who to trust when it comes to beauty products.

Product reviews are often paid-for, sponsored, or part of a broader brand agreement and it seems honesty is no longer the best, nor the most profitable, policy for bloggers and editors.

I say this as I have spent far too much money on hyped-up products promising me Blake Lively-level hotness overnight, only to wake up looking exactly the same, if a little sad to have spent so much on a teeny-tiny pot of nothingness.

There are, however, a handful of beauty bits that I am pleased to say live up to their cult status and are worth trying out for yourself. Behold; the no-nonsense, hard-working beauty heroes that I simply can't do without.

NARS AUDACIOUS MASCARA
New this year, the audacious mascara is every bit as fabulous as the name suggests. I do believe mascaras are subjective, but for me this one ticks all the boxes, creating long, voluminous eyelashes in the blackest of black.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY LIPCHEAT PENCIL IN PILLOW TALK
In the year that teeny-boppers everywhere became obsessed with one of the Kardashian clan's every-expanding pout, I became equally obsessed with Charlotte Tilbury's miraculous lip colours and pencils. Pillow Talk is everything – if, like me, your lips are a bit on the thin side, take the pencil just beyond the lipline for a flawless plumping effect.

LIZ EARLE CLEANSE & POLISH IN PINK PEPPER AND MINT
I'm a little late to the party on this one, but I have never tried a more effective, luxurious cleanser. If you are one of those girls who really can't be bothered taking her makeup off at the end of the night, this rich, creamy cleanser is sure to sweeten the deal. The hot muslin cloth gently polishes the skin without stripping it of essential oils, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

HOURGLASS IMMACULATE LIQUID POWDER FOUNDATION
Yes, it's a little pricey, but Hourglass is undoubtedly my favourite beauty brand. The formulas are second-to-none, the packaging is gorgeous and the shades are spot-on. The arch eyebrow pencil almost made the cut here, as there is a Platinum crayon for blondies, but I felt this foundation needed a mention. As the name suggests, this lightweight foundation smoothes out imperfections for an airbrushed, photo-ready complexion. It's a party season must.

CLARINS INSTANT LIGHT LIP PERFECTOR

At high school, my signature dance move was applying lipgloss on the dancefloor – it's my one true love. I've tried so many different glosses, but this is the one I keep coming back to – sitting between a balm and a gloss, with just a hint of neutral colour, Clarins' Lip Perfector creates a subtle, creamy sheen on the lips, without too much sparkle. My go-to is Apricot Shimmer, layered over Tom Ford First Time and Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk.

YVES SAINT LAURENT TOUCHÉ ECLAT

This one goes without saying. Whenever I'm tired or just in need of a little pick-me-up, Touché Eclat is my first port of call. Try it under the eyes to banish dark circles, dotted in the cupids bow to accentuate the lips or apply it down the bridge of your nose and blend for a slimming effect. It really does work miracles.

What are your go-to beauty buys? Tweet me @SWfashion_

NYE Knockout

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1. Whistles Rivington Pouch, £85.00 here 2. River Island 70s chiffon jumpsuit, £60.00 here 3. Jimmy Choo Andie sunglasses, £279.00 here 4. Tom Ford Lips & Boys lipstick in Austin, £27.00 here 5. River Island tassel earrings, £10.00, sold out in black, but available in red here 6. New Look black textured faux fur jacket, £49.00 here 7. Topshop dreamy chain-embellished sandals, £68.00 here

Nobody wants a normcore NYE outfit. Nobody I know, at least. NYE is all about pulling out all the stops, looking flawless and drinking way too much Champagne/Prosecco/Cava/ English sparkling (delete as appropriate). Start as you mean to continue, they say.

This year, the best bet is to take your cue from Studio 54. Jumpsuits slit to the navel, backless lamé halternecks and a hella lot of sequins – whatever your plans, the dress code has to be pure, unadulterated glamour. We're talking Hot Stuff, baby, and River Island's daring, peek-a-boo chiffon jumpsuit is just the ticket.

Go all-out on the styling front with Topshop's too-fabulous-for-words sandals – decked out with chains to shimmer as you shimmy – New Look's fluffy evening jacket and Jimmy Choo's divine Andie sunglasses – trust me, the minute you try them on you'll be smitten.

Finish with a touch of Tom Ford Lips & Boys lipstick. This shade, Austin, is the perfect rose-tinted neutral to offset a sapphire smokey eye, plus it's perfectly proportioned to pop in your Whistles leopard-print clutch.

Now all that's left to do is shake your groove thang.

The loungewear label you need in your life...

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1. Glen Coco sweatshirt £72.00 - pre-order here
2. Cream Tarts tee £48.00 here
3. St Tropez tee £48.00 here
4. Brunch sweatshirt £72,00 here

Party season? No thanks. 'Tis the season to be cosy.

Though you may not have a free night in your diary until March, sometimes every girl needs a little downtime with a good old-fashioned chick flick and a bowl of something gloriously carby.

So, rather than giving you another glitzy partywear edit, I thought I'd introduce you to Gem&i – my latest Instagram obsession.

The brainchild of NYC girls Gemma Henry and Lauren Barnett, Gem&i is all about comfy, cool casuals with a twist. Featuring quirky slogans like 'No Crème Brûlée before St Tropez' and 'it's not my fault, I'm on a cleanse', the collection is spot-on for self-confessed basic bitches (personally I've had far too many soy flat whites and avocado brunches to argue otherwise).

Also worthy of note is the 'Four for you Glen Coco' sweater – it's a fabulous alternative to novelty knitwear. Throw it on with matching joggers and your slippers of choice for the ultimate Christmas morning get-up.

Which is your favourite?

Starting at £48.00, the Gem&i collection is available online here. Check them out on Instagram @gemandi_ for a little bit of inspo.

Reasons to ❤️ Winter

2015-11-08T18:51:00.002+00:00

PHOTO @SWfashion_

Guys, it's official: winter is here and it's not going anywhere anytime soon. While we could all sit here and bemoan the lack of sunshine and the inability to go bare-legged on a daily basis, resistance is futile. Winter is here, whether you like it or not, and guess what? Christmas is about six weeks away... Gross, isn't it?

So, bid adieu to daydreams of chilled rosé on the No. 32 terrace – now is the time to wrap up and wholeheartedly embrace winter 2015...

IF YOU LOVED: Terrace-hopping

YOU'LL LOVE: The new Below & Hidden clubroom at the B&H Buildings in Clerkenwell

Small but perfectly formed, Below & Hidden is an elegant, intimate alternative to the extravagance usually associated with London nightlife (no Champers'n'sparklers here, sweetie). The man behind the intriguing drinks list is Jim Wrigley, who has curated a menu of creative bottled cocktails inspired by monthly themes and seasonal ingredients. Complete with a DJ and dancefloor, the clubroom will be open until 2am every Friday and Saturday so you can shake off your winter blues with the best of them.

IF YOU LOVED: Your bikini bod (admit it...)

YOU'LL LOVE: Psycle

A tenuous link, agreed, but just stick with me on this one.

If you find yourself scrolling Instagram, looking longingly at your toned, trim summer body, while tucking into your third mac'n'cheese of the week, I feel you. It's all too easy to fall into a fitness rut when winter sets in, but try your best not to. Of course, it's hard to muster the motivation to keep fit when cosiness is the priority, but if you give up on your regime you'll feel so much worse for it. My tip is to switch the gym for Psycle. With locations in Soho and Canary Wharf, Psycle is best described as a full-body workout on a bike. I used to be quite apprehensive of spinning, but Psycle has totally changed that – now I am, quite frankly, addicted to the high-octane, high-energy, 45 minute workout. Once you've experienced the endorphin rush after the first session, you'll be hooked.

IF YOU LOVED: Teeny-weeny mini skirts

YOU'LL LOVE: Over-the-knee boots

Just because it's cold out doesn't mean you need to start layering up like there's no tomorrow. Yes, you may have to put some proper clothes on, but you needn't pack up your summer dresses just yet – all you really need is a pair of thigh-high suede boots. Choose a neutral tone, ensuring they aren't too baggy around the legs, and wear with swishy mini skirts and dresses for a low-key, bohemian vibe. Easy peasy lemon squeeze. Obviously these Aquazurra ones are the ultimate, but these ones by Kurt Geiger are (almost) as lovely, as are these by Public Desire (a snip at £39.99).

SW Eats: Queenswood Battersea

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Photo @SWfashion_

Every now and again, a restaurant comes along that truly has it all. Scrumptious food, clever cocktails, a relaxed atmosphere – some dinner spots simply tick all the boxes and the latest addition to my list comes with the added bonus of being just around the corner. Five stars to Queenswood!

Set up by those behind Soho's popular Damson & Co, Queenswood is a neighbourhood restaurant so good, you may be tempted to move closer. Located in Battersea Square, it's a pocket of continental loveliness moments from Clapham Junction station; go on a warm summer's evening and you'll soon feel the charm, watching the sun set with a glass of rosé in hand, surrounded by really-really-ridiculously-good-looking locals.

Image @Queenswoodldn

The interior of the restaurant is elegant and cosy, complete with a well-stocked bar to tide you over until your table is ready. However, during the warmer months, the outside area is idyllic – go early to nab an al fresco table before I beat you to it.

And now for the main event: the food. Everything is absolutely splendid: the menu changes regularly, boasting beautiful meaty dishes with middle-eastern influences, inventive vegan and vegetarian fare and the most delicious crispy squid I've ever had in London (light batter, soft squid and subtly spiced dipping sauce - it's not to be missed). It's a great balance of naughty and nice, meaning those on a health kick can eat out without having to order house salad with dressing on the side (darling, life's too short).

On my recent trip, I tucked into the vegan risotto cooked in a herby chlorophyll stock with soy beans, spring onions, fresh coriander and tofu cubes; light and tasty, it makes the perfect summer supper. My boyfriend ordered the lamb dish, which was demolished in a matter of minutes, before he proclaimed it was the best lamb he's ever eaten in a restaurant. That's quite a feat, Queenswood. You should be proud.

Open daily from 8AM until late, Queenswood is up there with the best spots in London – if you're staying SW, it's worth a visit... And another... And one more for luck.

Next up? Brunch. Stay tuned for the verdict.

Queenswood is open every day from 8AM serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, drinks and dinner. Book a table here, then view lots of lovely food porn here. Follow the restaurant on Twitter at @QueenswoodLdn

London Rooftops: Storeys

2015-08-04T12:49:00.002+00:00

Image from Storeys' Facebook Page

London has no shortage of rooftop spots, but do you know what we are lacking? Decent places to drink in West London. Sure, I love a good Sally Cinnamon at The Portobello Star or an al fresco Aperol spritz on Westbourne Grove, but there's a real gap in the market for casual places with a more chilled-out vibe. Well, there was until Storeys arrived.

Housed atop the old Beeb building car-park, Storeys is a hot-to-trot two-storey space with a whole host of fun activities on offer. Obviously, the main one is eating and drinking, because this is London and that's all we really do (and drink green juice because that cancels out all toxins...) but there is also going to be striking artwork, movie screenings in the evening and early-bird yoga classes with Serene Social, the global wellness community.

The foodie vendors change weekly, but we were lucky enough to have En Brochette on-hand during our visit. En Brochette deserves a shout-out as it is a delicious alternative to carb-laden street food, offering various skewers on a bed of what could well be the best salad I've ever had. I say this because at the press launch the power-cut meant I couldn't actually try the skewers, but I managed to convince the team at En Brochette to whip me up their signature salad. The dressing, ladies and gents, is absolutely dynamite and sugar-free to boot. If I ever find the recipe, I'll post it straight away.

All in all, the whole vibe is totally East London, except for the fact it is West. All food served is from street food traders and the cocktails are unfussy but tasty and dangerously moreish. It's simply a splendid place to spend a chilled-out weekend in August, particularly when the sun shows up.

Located on top of the former BBC Car Park in White City, Storeys runs for seven weekends from 31st July 2015. There are no reservations, but you can find out more about listings and street food vendors here or follow them on Twitter here.

5 reasons to stay at Solage

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Image by Solage

Those of you who follow me on Instagram will probably have seen my recent holiday spam. A couple of weeks ago went on a family trip to California where we stayed in Solage, an eco-friendly resort on the outskirts of Calistoga.

There are a few resorts in the world that I can't recommend enough and Solage deserves a top spot on the list. Why? Let me count the ways...

1. THE POOL

Solage is a wellness resort first and foremost and the Olympic sized swimming pool reflects this. Lined with comfy loungers, with a jacuzzi and kiddy pool to boot, the Solage pool is the perfect place to chill out in the searing California sunshine. Then cool off like an athlete, if you fancy it.

The cherry on top is the poolside bar – great service, generous cocktails and light lunches mean you can stay all day, sipping and dipping to your hearts content.

2. THE STUDIO

Sometimes the holiday ritual of sleep, eat, repeat can get a bit boring. Thankfully, Solage is also a health club with a high-tech gym and picturesque studio for pilates, yoga and TRX classes. Every day there is a yoga hour and a reformer pilates class to keep you in tip-top shape on your break.

The bright, spacious studio is particularly charming, with glass doors opening out on to the spa grounds. I'd recommend attending at least one yoga session on your stay – the instructors are brilliant and the surroundings are stunning. One, two, three: Ommm.

Image from Solage

3. THE RESTAURANT

There's more to American food than french fries and corn chowder. On the West Coast, the overarching focus is on seasonal produce and clever combinations. Boasting one Michelin star and a cult following of foodies, Solbar is the ideal place to sample true Californian cuisine.

In the Napa Valley, Solbar is a rite of passage for creative chefs. Evangeline's Gustavo Rios and Archetype's Ryder Zetts both cut their teeth at the restaurant, and current executive chef Brandon Sharp has held a Michelin star for five years.

The food is extremely well executed, but what really sets it apart is the menu concept. The options are split down the middle: on the left you will find light, healthy cuisine in green, and on the right there are a few heartier options in red. In the green corner we have Hawaiian hamachi with ponzu gelee; rainbow carrot salad with coffee-date sauce and Tuscan black kale agnologgi with crispy sprout leaves. And in the red we have black truffled poached egg with crispy confit duck; sardines from Monterey Bay and pork tenderloin with huckleberry jus.

Can't decide? Go naughty and nice with the five-course tasting menu with matching wines.

4. THE SPA

For stressed-out city sorts, no summer holiday is complete without a spa trip.

Voted Conde Nast Traveller's top US spa, the eco-friendly Solage Spa is not to be missed. The signature treatment is The Mudslide Experience, a three-part series consisting of "The Mud", "The Water" and "The Rest". You begin by creating a bespoke mineral mud mask at the Spa bar, which you then apply to your body in a private heated mud lounge, before soaking in a geo-thermal mineral bath and relaxing in the rest zone.

Alongside myriad indulgent treatments, the spa also has a relaxing thermal pool which all guests are free to use and virtuous ice tea on-tap to keep you hydrated.

5. THE SURROUNDINGS

Surrounded by world-famous vineyards and hike-worthy hills, Solage is truly breathtaking. In order to make the most of the area, be sure to explore by bike. Cycling into Calistoga for dinner is a lovely way to spend an evening, but it's also worth cycling to a couple of surrounding wineries.

We took a trip to Brian Arden Wines, a boutique winery on the Silverado Trail run by Brian and his wife Amanda. The tastings are informative but informal, priced at $20 for four small reds with a little sparkling rosé to kick things off.

The sparkling Kay Rosé was my personal favourite – light, fresh and oh-so drinkable, it's named after Brian's late mother and a percentage of proceeds go to cancer research. If only there was a UK stockist.

For more information on Solage California visit www.solagecalistoga.com. As ever, please do let me know your thoughts below or tweet me @SWfashion_.

Just My Type = Archetype

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Image from Instagram @archetypenapa

Everybody knows I love a good brunch.* In fact, the only people in the world who could possibly like brunch more than me are Americans – they can't get enough of the stuff and, let's be honest here, nobody does it better.

I, like every other basic bitch in the land, have a few top brunch spots in the world: Brickwood Clapham is number one, primarily due to proximity but also because their avo toast tastes much better than skinny feels; Holybelly in Paris is a close second and the latest addition to the list is Archetype in Napa.
Formerly French Blue, Archetype was established by the architect Howard Backen with a view to bring together traditional American cuisine and relaxed, elegant surroundings. Bright, airy and welcoming, the restaurant boasts a sun-drenched conservatory, lined with antique liquor bottles, and an interior dining room with comfy loungers and a splendid exposed kitchen. So far, so Instagram-able.

Image from Instagram @archetypenapa

But the main event? The food. Created by former Solbar chef Ryder Zetts, the weekend brunch menu is irresistible. Think cream cheese-frosted walnut rolls, avocado toast with Calistoga lettuces, light buttermilk waffles topped with confit duck and tea poached apricots... The list goes on. Balancing nice, light fare with a a few naughtier options, the Archetype brunch menu has something for everyone, and if I was lucky enough to take up a permanent residence at Solage (as is the dream), I would be there every other day.

As can only be expected in Wine Country, the drinks are also rather special. Alongside the impeccable wine selection, Archetype offers an array of handmade cocktails and mocktails. Worthy of note on the "Punch with Brunch" list are The Scala – a spicy/sweet concoction of jalapeno tequila, lemongrass syrup and lime; the Costa Verde –a smoky, celery-infused French 75 and the sharp, tangy Pomegranate Punch. After all, there's no brunch without punch.

Charming, chic and affordable, Archetype sets the bar high for brunching in CA.

Where's your favourite brunch spot in the world? Comment below or tweet me @SWfashion_

You can find Archetype on 1429 Main Street, St Helena and read the brunch menu here. You can book a table online at www.archetypenapa.com or email info@archetypenapa.com. Please note, Archetype is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

*The truth is, because I get up so early, my so-called brunch actually comes after a pretty darn hearty breakfast so it's technically lunch but I call it brunch because it's breakfast for lunch. Just wanted to clear that up – life's too short to combine meals. Ain't nobody got time fo' that.

Chic Paris #1: Holybelly

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Photo by Nico Alary

My first tip for anyone visiting Paris is to ignore the obvious tourist traps. Sure, it's nice to pop into Colette, but when it's packed to the brim with camera-wielding voyeurs, it feels less like fashion's favourite concept boutique, more like an Apple store. Of course, I understand the allure of stopping by the plucked-from-a-postcard landmarks, but I promise Paris has a whole lot more to offer.

Much like London and New York, Paris is a hub of creativity, with sparks flying in design, music, and everything in between. Le Marais is the undisputed capital of cool, punctuated with niche bookshops, organic foodie spots and, naturally, great coffee/brunch joints. It's a great place for style-conscious first-time visitors on a budget. It's also got hipster/basic bitch written all over it, but don't let that put you off.

Photo by Nico Alary

Thanks to a tip-off from the Hip Paris blog, at the top of my list is Holybelly, a Pinterest-ready café with spades of style. Nestled away beside the Canal Saint Martin – an idyllic spot for sickening selfies with your significant other, if you're so inclined – Holybelly is bustling, energetic, and too good to miss.

Set up by Sarah Mouchot and Nico Alary back in 2013, Holybelly is inspired by cafés in Melbourne, serving up Belleville coffee and tasty food in a relaxed environment. Alongside all-American seasonal brekkie staples, the kitchen caters to every craving with traditional French dishes and Southern comfort food classics.

On our trip, my boyfriend (a total coffee snob) and I made two trips – one for a perfect al fresco flat white and one for a scrumptious pre-Eurostar lunch. We are eternally searching for cafés as brilliant as Brickwood in Clapham and Holybelly certainly did not disappoint. What sets it apart from the city's myriad tea salon, patisseries and cool kid coffee hangouts, is the wonderful customer service, the welcoming atmosphere and, naturally, the incredibly tasty food. It's also rather Instagramable – I mean, they have cacti in espresso cups outside, what fash gal feed wouldn't benefit from that?

Photo by Nico Alary

Food-wise, I indulged in BBQ beans, thyme buttered mushrooms and poached eggs on toast, with a whopping serving of Holybelly's homemade hot sauce. My boyfriend stayed true to his American roots and ordered some pimped-out pancakes, topped with fried eggs, bacon, Bourbon butter and a river of maple syrup. They are every bit as naughty, and delicious, as they sounds.

Naturally, they don't take bookings but you can leave your name with Nico and then take a little stroll around the surrounding area – Artazart bookshop is just around the corner – until your table is ready. Then you can just sit back, relax, and tuck into the best brunch in Paris. The only hard part? Choosing just one dish.

Holybelly, until next time. Check out their website and follow on Twitter here.

Ooh La La: Le Crazy Horse

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Image by Riccardo Tinelli

The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Le Crazy Horse. Though a cabaret may not be an obvious option for your first trip to Paris, Le Crazy Horse is in a league of its own.

Founded in 1951 by Alain Bernadin, the show fuses artistic impulse with incredible design, shaped by cultural influences. A Parisian institution, standing pride of place on Avenue George V, the cabaret has played host to all manner of extraordinary "Guest Creatures" including Dita Von Teese and Beyoncé (she filmed the promo for 'Partition' there, don'tcha know). Choreographed and styled to perfection, each and every show is a masterpiece.
Whether you're enjoying a romantic mini-break or a girly weekend, a night at Le Crazy Horse cannot be beaten. A dazzling display from start to finish, the show consists of several incredible performances, ranging from quirky teases to exquisite acrobatics. All lipstick red seating and Champagne bottles left, right, and centre, it's the definition of old Parisian glamour.

Image by Antoine Poupel

The outfits are breathtaking. A beautiful array of scarlet-soled Louboutins and luxurious lingerie, every costume is concocted to complement the lighting, music and masterful projections. Continually inspired by multi-faceted femininity, Le Crazy Horse Paris is a rather fabulous celebration of women.

It comes as no surprise that Le Crazy Horse troupe inspires photographers and fashion designers alike. The aforementioned Christian Louboutin is the cabaret's first Guest Creator, crafting incredible footwear for dedicated routines. "I am interested in all things that celebrate and enhance the female form. The language of legs can express any and every feeling, and without giving too much away," explains the iconic Parisian of the project.

The most avant-garde act in Paris, the show is empowering and inspiring. The bodies of the dancers are strong, not skinny; all smooth curves and abs to kill. Though this level of honing and toning is a full-time job, there is something refreshing about seeing a healthy variety of shapes and sizes. Having struggled with weight, I personally found the show incredibly uplifting. Can I join the troupe? There's only around 500 applications per year so if I quit my job, overhaul my body entirely and train for a good ten years, I am definitely in with a shot.

Image by Riccardo Tinelli

I shan't give too much away, but I can't recommend Le Crazy Horse enough. My boyfriend and I visited on our first night and were taken aback by the polished performances, captivating costumes and proximity to the twinkling Eiffel Tower ("Elliot does it always sparkle like that or is it just for us?!").

Ladies and gents: dress to impress, pop the cork, sit back and enjoy the show.

Find out more and find tickets here.

You Saucy Scoundrels

2015-04-11T15:57:00.000+00:00

London-dwellers will know there is no shortage of cocktail bars in the capital. For every budget, every occasion, there’s a watering hole to suit. From speakeasies, so many speakeasies, through to tequila taquerias and craft whisky pop-ups, us French 75-swigging sorts are spoiled for choice.

The only chink in the armor is the lack of fabulous central spots. In a sea of All Bar Ones and high-end, high-cost haunts, it’s tricky to find somewhere fun and fabulous for a little post-shop pitstop. Well it was, until Cahoots showed up and changed the game.

Nestled away in a disused underground station beneath Kingly Court, Cahoots is the latest venture from the Inception group. Taking its cues from post-war Britain, this swinging party spot is decked out like a 1940s tube carriage with mismatched furnishings and bunting a-plenty. Bustling with swing dancers, piano sing-songs and, of course, delectable cocktails, it’s truly one of a kind.

Once you’ve found the Underground sign in Kingly Court, the Cahoots station master will issue you with a day ticket and lead you downstairs towards the carriage. The atmosphere is electric; the waitresses are dressed in authentic 1940s attire, jiving to swing music and handing out The Kingly Court Herald menus (photo op alert: it looks just like you’re sat on a train reading the paper) to thirsty punters.

The cocktails themselves are a triumph. Alongside the classics, there are some fabulous 40s inspired concoctions such as White Cloves of Dover, Give Peas a Chance and Pickledilly Circus. For the ladies there is an entire Starlets & Sirens section dedicated to Hollywood heroines, and for the discerning gents there is the luxurious Aristocrats & Fat Cats list. If you’re planning a knees-up, or simply a few drinks after work, Cahoots also offers a rather fabulous selection of sharing drinks – some in teapots (with cosies, of course), some in flasks and some in milk bottles. Word has it the Cherry Top milk bottle, a blend of vodka, Cherry Heering, Frangelico, vanilla syrup and milk is a dream.

Open til 1AM Monday - Wednesday, 2AM Thursday – Friday and 3AM on Saturday, it’s the perfect place for a night of good old fashioned fun.

Find out more on the Cahoots website.

Pre Paris Wishlist

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Hefner slippers, £165.00 here

In a matter of days, I am heading to Paris for a lovely Easter mini break. This week, I have spent every lunch hour poring over guidebooks, blogs and Instagram (always a good shout for cool spots off the beaten track), trying to work out exactly where to check in. Three meals a day is just not enough- is it greedy to attempt two lunches? I've managed to find some great little places - with a big thank you to Serena Guen and Erica Berman of Hip Paris - and look forward to sharing these with you after my trip.

In the run-up, though, I thought I would post my Pre Paris Wishlist. Though I have made a conscious decision to save for the city of love, lust and extortionately expensive coffee, there are a million and one new season pieces I would love to pack in my suitcase- those Parisiennes are a hard act to follow.

I have been reading the brilliant How To Be Parisian Wherever You Are (in the doctor's waiting room, no less, I don't think that's the best place to start) and taking notes on how to capture that inimitable nonchalance that makes Parisiennes the sexiest women on the planet. The main point? Of course, they care about how they look, but no one should ever know that they care. For le Parisienne, chic just happens.

So, with this in mind, here is my first Pre Paris pick- French Sole's Three-in-One Hefner pumps.

When asking friends about Paris, almost everyone has advised me to shun the metro and explore the city by foot. Word has it, it's the only way to uncover hidden gems and to fully appreciate the beauty of the city, after all - they say Paris and New York are the only places in the world that look just as they do in the movies. It'd be a great pity to miss out on any sights - so I have decided to pack only three pairs of shoes - low key heels, Nikes (a true British tourist) and elegant flats to patrol Paris in style. As much as I would love to saunter along the Rive Gauche in Louboutin Pigalles- it ain't gonna happen. Pigalles call for Uber Execs only.

Instead, these lovely French Sole Hefner pumps should do the trick. A chic update on the time-honoured smoking slippers, they are ideal for daytime. The neutral colourway has to be my choice, as often flats can make legs appear shorter - we aren't all blessed with Alexa-esque limbs, after all. Opting for nude pumps will lengthen the legs without complicating your outfit, while the mix and match tassels mean you can add a little touch of colour if liked. Or you can just opt for black and nude because, darling, you're in Paris.

Partner them with a simple cashmere sweater, an A-line mini skirt and classic trench coat for a breezy look. Be sure to keep make up low key- dewy base, flushed cheeks and just a little mascara and liner. Hair should never be bouncy and glossy - it should be bundled into a messy, but sexy, chignon. And just make sure your underpinnings are up to scratch - L'Agent by AP is my choice (this Vanesa set is my latest love). Last but not least, complete the look with a box of macaroons and a Café Kitsuné coffee by day, a glass of Champagne by night.

C'est Magnifique!

PS

Though my Paris Google Maps is spangled with numerous stars, I'd still love to hear your suggestions. Please do tweet me or email me!

Guilt Free Feasting: Ethos Review

2015-03-17T08:57:00.003+00:00

I love nothing more than a good veggie restaurant- I would happily go meat free Monday to Sunday if I could afford to eat out every night. Experimental, exciting and packed full of flavour; today's veggie options are a million miles from plates of insipid steamed carrots and gelatinous tofu.

London has always been abundant in vegetarian restaurants, but the veggie food boom is arguably the best bi-product of the capital's wellness wave. Now, even the most ferocious of meat eaters could be tempted to veg out.

Of all the new openings worth raving about, my favourite is Ethos. On paper, it sounds hellish- it’s just by Oxford Circus, it has curry and arancini on the same menu and it is self-service- but in reality, Ethos is heaven.

Though the concept of "help yourself" sounds chaotic, the practice is actually quite sophisticated and allows for greedy girls like me to go to town on the starters and mains, trying a little bit of everything without feeling like a pig. Having been “good” at lunch with just a Boots Meal Deal (such a foodie- AA Gill, I’m on to you), I was pretty starving when 6:30 hit and, naturally, I loaded my plate with absolutely everything I could get my hands on. Moroccan stew, arancini, curry, courgette and feta fritters, mushroom gnocchi, sweet potato, mashed avocado, salads a-plenty, BBQ seitan ribs- my wrists were cowering under the weight.

Taking my overflowing plate up to the counter, I felt a sense of dread and was a little shocked when my dish tipped the scales at £22.00. Initially I thought that was pricey, but when I sat down and discussed with my companion, I realised I had taken way more than I could actually manage, and boxed up the rest. Though £22.00 for just one dish sounds a lot, for the volume and quality of food, it really is great value- no wonder Time Out named Ethos as one of 2015’s best cheap eats.

At Ethos, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal with a glass of wine for well under £30.00, and then have lunch leftover for the next day. It’s also a great idea for a date – you and your significant other can pile your plates high with all manner of yummy treats and then share them, like a bespoke mezze. You also pay up front which is great for two things: 1) It eradicates any awkward bill-splitting situations 2) You don’t need to wait for the bill, meaning you can polish off that bottle of wine and head straight home.

Food-wise, my standouts were the BBQ seitan ribs and the Moroccan stew. Both were rich and full of flavour, the ribs sweet and the stew spicy. I had gone with the intention of trying the giant Indian-spiced Aloo scotch eggs (separately priced at around £3.00 each- you could easily go in at lunch, pop one in a box with some salad and spend less than you would in Pret) but when we arrived they had all disappeared. After we had eaten, the chefs brought out a fresh batch, but I just couldn’t quite justify any more food.

Okay... That's a fib. We shared a veggie-friendly carrot cake with the most scrumptious cream cheese icing. Moist and rich in vanilla, it was a real treat, if a little heavy. But, hey, if it's veggie it doesn't have calories, right? Good. Glad you agree.

You really have to go to Ethos to appreciate it. Despite my hesitations, I thoroughly enjoyed my dinner and would go back in a heartbeat. I’ve popped a few tips below for first-time Ethos diners and would love to hear your thoughts on the restaurant. Tweet me at @SWfashion_ or pop a comment below.

HEAD HERE FOR: Informal dinner dates; leisurely brunching/lunching; impressing veggie visitors; lunchtime refueling.

YOU’LL LOVE IT IF: You don’t eat meat (obviously); you are weight-conscious and looking for a light, healthy dinner spot; you like to try a little bit of everything; your stomach is rumbling, and your pockets are deep.

PRICE: You can easily eat here for £30 pp with a glass of wine, and you’ll probably have leftovers for lunch. It is £2.70 per 100g at dinner, £2.50 per 110g at lunch. You can also get a hot brunch for £5.95.

DON’T GO IF: You’re going to moan about how much you love meat. Just go to Bodeans or Nandos. No one wants you here.

DRESS CODE: No dress code, but during the week you’re likely to find a fair few fashion and media types- it is in Soho, after all.

TIPS: Don’t go on an empty stomach. If you head to Ethos for dinner, have a decent lunch (no- that does not include courgetti) and then a bag of Propercorn or something to tide you over in the afternoon. That way you won’t clean out the buffet and your bank account.

Don’t fill up your plate with salads and bread- you can get those anywhere, silly.

Box up any leftovers, add some quinoa and dressed spinach at home, and enjoy them for lunch the next day.