Virginia Bates' Blog

Ladies Day

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:54:15 +0100

I must have done at least three costume changes before deciding on my outfit for Ladies Day. Torrential rain made my original suit an impossible choice, as it's made from crepe de chine with a tendency to shrink when wet! My silk Manolo's discarded for practical patent Alaia's, if you can call a 7-inch wedge, practical!

After an eventful journey, arrived just in time for the fashion show. Stephen Jones, the acclaimed milliner, wowed us all with his latest creations and our table stood and toasted him. As luck would have it, I was on a bit of a winning streak which is dangerous, as there is a gambling tendency in my genes. My great aunt Doris was black-balled from Crockfords. As usual a fabulous time was had by all, and a big thank you to my host.

London To Ibiza

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:00:18 +0100

Daisy Bates and Jaime Winstone

Jeff Koons' towering Colouring Book in the courtyard of The Royal Academy was a welcome sight at the preview party for The Summer Show. Sales from the show help fund RA schools, so it was encouraging to see works were being snapped up. If it was up to me and not my nagging accountant, I would have gone for Allan Jones' Think Pink, a full size dummy in red ankle boots - and either of Mimmo Paladino's works. Instead I consoled myself with delicious canapés, the presentation works of art.

Following morning left for Ibiza. At Stansted, I was pulled over for not having put a tiny tube of toothpaste (a freebie from BA), in a plastic bag, which they then tried to charge me a pound for! The whole process took over 20 minutes, so be forewarned! The lively flight compensated for the aggravation, as the plane was full of party revellers going for the opening of Privilege, a big numero in Ibiza land. Thunder, lightning, hail and mud prevented me from going, and when I finally made my way to the beach on Sunday, the party crowd were splayed out still in sequins and heels sleeping it off.

Back in London, the Dairy, a favourite during LFW, was the venue for Retna the graffiti artist who's show - The Hallelujah World Tour - is spectacular. Each piece carries meaning, conveying an event that the artist has experienced. If you're around Bloomsbury and you don't get lost like I did, it's well worth a visit.

Julia Restoin Roitfeld

Judith Watt and Suzy Menkes

Shoes Meet Art

Thu, 19 May 2011 16:14:29 +0100

Kristina Blahnik

One of the world's finest black and white fashion photographers has to be Lillian Bassman. An exhibition of her work is on display at Donna Karen, Conduit Street. At the launch, guests sipped Champagne debating which photograph to purchase. Round the corner at Richard James in Savile Row, another launch party for Spongebob Squarepants! Here, guests queued up to be photographed with Spongebob.

Dinos Chapman

Janet Street Porter and Tiphaine de Lussy

With my weakness for heels I couldn't get to Nicholas Kirkwood's new shop quick enough. The store on Mount Street is fantastic and the opening party was packed with ever fashionista in town, drooling over the shoes - works of art and very collectable. Talking of art Tracey Emin has a major retrospective Love Is What You Want at the Hayward Gallery. The patchwork blankets are extraordinary, the neon tunnel magical. The show is sometimes quite heartbreaking and very moving.

James Long and Nicholas Kirkwood

St Pancras Renaissance Hotel

Thu, 12 May 2011 14:14:18 +0100

Through a fan fair of dancing bubbles and music, guests arrived to the opening of the spectacular St Pancras Renaissance Hotel. After six years of meticulous restoration and attention to detail it is amazing, from the long bar in the Booking Office to the Ladies Smoking Room. A string quartet played on the magnificent staircase and I did wonder what the Queen Victoria Suite was like. In her day the hotel had only one bath on each floor, she would not have been amused by DJ Cassidy and his dancing girls. There's something incredibly sexy about the place, defintely allow time for a cocktail before departure on eurostar under the station clock or better still check in for an overnight stay, you may never leave.

Royal Wedding

Mon, 09 May 2011 16:13:11 +0100

Having gone through the drama of a few Eastenders weddings recently, what bliss that the royal wedding went so smoothly. Magnificent, spectacular - and how gorgeous was that dress? Well done Sarah Burton. If nothing else it brought the communities together and we had a really fun day on the Square. Children dressed up and performed mock marriages and the grown-ups cheered and wept their way through the wedding. Putting up the decorations was nearly as much fun, and to my delight I discovered that my neighbour is an ex-circus performer, naturally I had him shimmying up the lamp post hanging bunting. I stayed till dusk and went home to discover my normally quiet street was rocking to a brass band.

Sweet Smelling

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:45:11 +0100

AnOther and Carolina Herrera gave a cocktail party to launch the new fragrance L'Eau. Simon Costin created the most incredible display of flowers in the drawing room of 29 Portland Place, practically using an entire cherry tree. Daisy Lowe DJ'd and guests, some with garlands in their hair, sipped rosewater and lavender based cocktails. Unfortunately, I managed to have an attack of hayfever and had to sniffle my way home prematurely.

Beauty At The V&A

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 16:15:26 +0100

The Cult of Beauty at the V&A is a feast to behold, and anyone who is interested in the Aesthetic Movement should see this exhibition. Also at the V&A is a retrospective of Yohji Yamamoto, with over 60 creations and a multi-media timeline that reveals his wider creative output. I noticed one of the guards looking at me rather nervously as I happened to be wearing a silk polka dot layered skirt from the 2007-08 collection, which is on display and I must have confused him!

Vogue, Tatler and The Village celebrated an evening of all things fashion at Westfield. Cocktails, Champagne and canapés were served, as customers wondered from store to store and took advantage of the offers. Naomi Campbell has launched an exquisite, one-week-only pop-up shop, selling donated designer pieces - with all profits going to the Prince’s Trust.

Westfield doesn’t do it for me, the whole experience is far too overwhelming, too much stuff and I can never find my way out, best to stick with The Cult of Beauty.

Debut

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:18:16 +0100

Tracey Boyd and Adrian Wright

Great excitement on the square as a rumour was flying around that Eastenders was filming in the area. Ronaldo (from Julie’s), and I were beside ourselves and wouldn’t rest until we tracked down the crew at St James Church. God, not another wedding! We were so engrossed, clients had to climb in and out of sequin dresses on their own in the shop and I don’t think anyone got served their pudding in Julie’s.

Carol Ann Blunt

Another quick trip to Ibiza, I coincidently sat next to the same guy that I had sat next to the week before on Eurostar. I had the most sensational meal at Casa Piedra (971 196558), situated in an orange grove. It has recently re-opened after a really cool makeover. All the food is local and the sizzling Galician style octopus is yummy.

Richard Sloan, Henry Holland and Lulu Kennedy

Henry Holland hosted Debut, the first fashion party for Cancer Research, at one of my favourite venues - One Mayfair. Easy to park outside and brilliant for a quick change. The evening was a huge success and raised tons of money.

Daniel

Spring is here, Daniel (tortoise), has woken up - HURRAY.

Ball

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:28:34 +0100

Virginia, Stephen Jones and Craig West

Joan Burstein and Lucy Yeomans hosted a fun cocktail party at Browns, for Zainab Salbis Women for Women charity. Eight female designers created a range of limited edition cool T-shirts and guests couldn’t wait to get their hands on them. The charity helps women whose lives have been shattered by war, so if you’re passing Browns pop in and buy one.

Harry Blain

Another fun night was The Surrealist Ball at Banqueting House, a fundraising event for NSPCC, the charity that helps improve the lives of children and young people. Guests took the theme on board, witty, eccentric and bizarre. The Grand Hall was beautifully dressed and each table setting had a centre piece created by Oriel Harwood or Adeline de Monseignat which could be bought, giving an opportunity to take a piece of the surreal home.

Craig West and Oriel Harwood

Urban Caprice catered and as one would expect, the menu was unbelievable. The Grand Auction, astounding! I’ve never actually seen so much money being raised. Damien Hurst’s Shark’s Jaw with White Rose & Butterflies sold for two million and Tracey Emin’s For You went for £80,000 - a truly successful evening.

Stevie and Luisella Barron

In the cab home the taxi driver said “Someone’s taken a bite out of your apple love!” I’d forgotten, I had one on my head - albeit diamanté - thanks to Stephen Jones.

Craig West and Lucy Yeomans

Alice In Wonderland

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:25:51 +0100

You cannot imagine a more thrilling night! I was invited to attend the gala premiere of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at the Opera House, the first new ballet for 20 years, and it doesn’t get more exciting.

From the moment that the curtain is raised you are transported into Wonderland from spiralling down the rabbit hole, to playing croquet with flamingos - thanks to the magical designs of Bob Crowley, and projections from Jon Driscoll and Gemma Carrington, creators of many stunning effects. The performances are dynamic, especially Lauren Cuthbertson’s Alice, Steven McRae’s tap dancing Mad Hatter and Zenaida Yanowsky nutty Queen of Hearts. Christopher Wheeldon’s choreography is a triumph, as is Joby Talbot’s music. It’s a sublime team and the flamingos, hedgehogs and caterpillar would be welcome in my garden any time.

The performance was followed by dinner. “Eat me” - each table was set in Wonderland fashion but still chic. As each dancer entered the hall guests stood and applauded the success and launch of this outstanding ballet.

London Fashion Week

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:37:46 +0100

Colin Firth.

VOGUE.COM celebrated its 15th anniversary giving a party at the newly opened W Hotel in Soho. I had a bit of a star-struck moment when Colin Firth tripped over me and gave my boot a royal seal.

Mary Greenwell and David Downton.

Susannah Hunter and me.

The Savoy Ballroom is a pretty gorgeous venue to start the day and perfect for Maria Grachvogel to show her collection, elegant and chic as ever.

Vivienne Westwood's Get a Life party to launch her Acorn range of jewelry was rammed. How brilliant having it at the Wallace Collection and a great opportunity to see the amazing art. Wearing one of Vivienne's headdresses Jessie J performed in the courtyard and was sensational.

Vivienne Westwood.

Obviously it's Fashion Week - at Temple half the carriage changes from wellies into heels before teetering off to Somerset House. I weedily waited and changed in the cloakroom, not risking flying over the cobbles. Betty Jackson's printed chiffon tea dresses were enchanting and John Rocha's show right up my street. Heavily worked pieces in pressed wools, loops of yarns, appliquéd lace and smocked panels were works of art.

John Rocha and me.

Jasper Conran's signature tailoring was so elegant, a chocolate ostrich feather embroidered organza coat and chiffon sequin dress - divine.

One of the great things about Fashion Week is the amazing places you visit and an opportunity to see Draper's Hall - irresistible - with the added bonus of Antonio Berardi. Each piece is beyond incredible, lace paneled dresses with gunmetal sequins, I could kill for.

Michael Howells created a waterfall runway in cobalt blue for Osman's show, his signature colour. Vibrant pinks, oranges and green, softly structured dresses and draped separates were beautiful.

Much needed glasses of Champagne greeted us at Phillips du Pury for Matthew Williamson's show, putting everybody in a party mood which certainly the show reflected.

Where better for Temperley's return to London than the British Museum. Elegant and dramatic, opulence reigns supreme, thank god.

Christopher Kane's brilliant show was a fantastic start to the week, his colourful blanket knit dresses, exquisitely cut evening wear in vivid colours with plastic detailing and the clutch bag, a must-have. A dash to Westminster University for Erdem's show, where his collection of sumptuous dresses in richly coloured silk velvet, satin, lace accessories and matching silk boots by Nicholas Kirkwood brought the house down.

Antony Price, Daphne Guinness and me at the Love party.

Love magazine at Liberty covered the design floor with silver foil giving it the factory look, Beth Ditto performed and everyone went appropriately wild. Later, waiting unsuccessfully in the rain for a cab, I was rescued by Judith Watt and Antony Price in a cool black land rover, how rock and roll is that.

Another fab location is the Directors Institute on Pall Mall where Roksanda had her show. Sitting on gilt chairs listening to Edith Piaf, models in delicious delicate gowns sashayed under the biggest chandelier I've ever seen. On the way out the "Directors" were tucking into their lunch oblivious to the commotion of loveliness going on over their heads.

At Fashion East where tea was being served, please note that iced buns have taken over from cupcakes - now so dated. Thrilled to see (by popular demand), James Long's womenswear collection. Gypsy, grunge, Arran style tasseled knits and long crochet cardigans with macramé tassleing, I wonder how I've lived so long without it. Simone Rocha's strong deconstructed tailoring is very cool and I loved the whacky Perspex heeled brogues.

James Long.

Back to Somerset House for James Long's menswear, another killer show. Sadly LFW has come to an end, the fashion pack have moved on. However, I console myself with some fab goodie bags with enough products to keep me going till next season.

Fashion Fun

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 17:34:03 +0100

Samantha Cameron, Christopher Kane, Tammy Kane and Alexandra Shulman.

Harold Tillman with Christopher Kane.

Harold Tillman and Alexandra Shulman hosted a cocktail party at Almada in Mayfair, for the nominees for the BFC/Vogue Fashion Fund. To a rapturous applause, Christopher Kane collected a beautiful fashion illustration by David Downton along with a bit of dosh. With LFW only two weeks away, there was a great buzz of excitement.

Erdem and I.

On my way back to the car, I passed Jack Barclay's showroom where an 'event' was going on. A friend spotted me and dragged me in for a glass of bubbly, I spent 20 minutes ogling over the immaculate pile of Rolls Royce's, sadly the smell of leather renders me car sick! What relief to drive home in my very uncomplicated beetle.

Bit of a leveller the following day going to St Georges Hospital, Tooting, for a meeting for the Ralph Bates Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund. Wow, what we could do with the money lavished on a Roller.

From Paris To London

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:46:05 +0100

The inspiration for John Galliano’s menswear show, was the life of Rudolf Nuryev. The gothic venue L’ecole de Medecine was transformed into a ballet rehearsal studio, with bar, upright piano and draped candelabra. The collection is flamboyant, a palette of rich scarlet, emerald and ebony, with embroideries and sharp tailoring. It was sumptuous and very romantic.

Suzy Menkes

John Galliano

Went to Castiglione for breakfast which was a disaster as the waiter smashed my jar of honey onto the floor, which typically I stepped on - imprinting it along rue St Honoré. So apologies to anyone who got stuck to the floor in Collette.

Honey free, saw James Long’s collection at the JTM showroom, packed with buyers, a good sign - can’t wait for his womenswear launch at Fashion East this London Fashion Week.

Museé Rodin was the apt location for Dior Haute Couture. Inspired by the work of the iconic illustrator Rene Gruau, the show was beyond. The attention to detail with Galliano’s expertise and craftsmanship, completely brought Gruau’s work to life.

Tory Burch celebrated the opening of the London Flagship boutique, throwing a cocktail party to launch her beautiful store on Bond Street. The fashion pack out in force, welcomed her to the London scene.

To celebrate Bafta, InStyle hosted the Best of British Talent with a party on the rooftop at Shoreditch House. Wow, actors like to party!

Stephen Jones

Maria Grachvogel at InStyle

Benedict Cumberbatch.

NY Shopping Spots

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:55:35 +0100

Movie Palace.

Spent the weekend in the Big Apple for a vintage shopping experience and Brooklyn is definitely the place to buy. The shops are quirky, outrageous, fun and I highly recommend Japan Vintage.

Colleen Sherin.

I’m not that enamoured with snow in a city, but in New York nothing must deter the shopper and the pavements are completely clear, the snow piled high along the curb. Love to wander around Soho, the shops are great and Kisan - a Concept Store - such fun with a Collette (Paris) feel. Back in Brooklyn, Cadaques, a newly opened tapas bar is packed - hardly surprising as the killer cocktails and food are amazing.

Virginia Bates and Sarah Bereza.

The Museum of Moving Image has received a completely technological and artistic overhaul, making it livelier and more engaging than ever. The museum’s inaugural Signal to Noise party took over the entire building with a three ring circus of live electronic music, moving image performances and interactive art. Artists, hackers, musicians and filmmakers activated every area of the museum late into the night. Having seen Black Swan the day before, it was riveting to see the prosthetics of Natalie Portman on display. The evening ended with a performance by the hot new band, Fall on Your Sword, playing live electro jams paired with edited video clips. The music was amazing, the clips hilarious, the audience went crazy and we danced our boots off. Outside in the snow having been touched with the feel good factor, people were still dancing and singing Spanish Ladies.

Fall On Your Sword.

A great way to end the weekend - completely energised with the New York magic.

An Ibizan New Year

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 16:12:55 +0100

Having caught, but survived, every known bug and virus over Christmas, it’s quite nice to take off and spend New Year in Ibiza. This time of year the island is deserted and you do have to know where to go as most restaurants, clubs and boutiques have all shut down until May.

Checked into El Hotel and spent a day being pampered in the Wellness Room and after a manicure, pedicure and the 'Ibiza Massage' felt amazing. New Years Eve started in the stunning candlelit Pacha restaurant, decorated in modern white crisp lines with signature huge red lit balls. Even though I wasn't quite ready for the famous Capisaki cocktail, the dinner was delicious. Then at the appropriate time, we went next door to the Pacha nightclub itself - the atmosphere was incredible. One thing’s for sure - Ibiza knows how to rock.

At Saint Miquel, jewellery designer Natasha Collis' collection is nothing but stunning and, for cool silk velvet dresses and wraps, Galeria Elephant is brilliant. A long walk on the deserted beach at Salines feels weird, but heaven after the impossible crowds of the summer and as none of the cafe's are open - it's back into Ibiza to Cafe Sidney on the Marina where the cool crowd are hanging out.

After a brilliant five days I left the island, with my hand luggage consisting of tangerines freshly picked from the garden, feeling ready to take on 2011.

On The Bus

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:12:51 +0100

On a freezing snowy night, I went to the last of the Royal Academy's three annual GSK Contemporary exhibitions, which focuses on the connection between Art and Fashion. Susie MacMurray's Cruella de Vil's ballgown, made entirely from dress makers pins, is genius. A dinner followed hosted by Lucy Yeomans in the Library at Sketch. I haven't been there for a while and the room and food is as great as ever. It was gone 1am when I left and I asked the doorman to get me a cab. He told me that, due to adverse weather conditions, there weren't any and in defiance I stormed off out into the snow. He was right, of course, there were no cabs. So I hopped onto a night bus and, let me tell you, it was rocking. The passengers in true Christmas party spirit were dancing in the aisles and I was sorry to get off.

Erdem and Andrew Logan.

Bodil.

Stella's Shop

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 11:07:14 +0100

The Stella McCartney shop.

Surprised passengers on the top deck of buses driving down Bruton Street got the best view, as Catherine Tate switched on the Christmas lights at Stella McCartney's shop. Guests crowded outside, serenaded by Santa Claus and then warmed up with glasses of Champagne or Guinness and wondered around the beautiful store.

Sandro has just opened in Westbourne Grove and gave a fab launch party. Lots of brilliant party outfits and it's dangerously close for me to pop in regularly.

Catherine Tate and Mary McCartney.

Virginia and Mary Fellowes.

Arrived at the glamourous opening of Dior in Bond Street and then had a hideous fashion moment when I felt one of my heels snap under me, thought at first I was sinking into the thick pile of the carpet. I then spent the entire evening on demi point. After my embarrassment, limped round the corner to Dover Street Market to ogle over Gaia Repossi's jewellery. Assistants wearing white gloves were showing intricate rings to a client, I was green with envy.

Jamie Winstone.

Julie And Me

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:54:03 +0100

Francine and Chris Corbin.

At Waddington Galleries Cork Street, Peter Blake has selected 10 artists and produced five works in homage to each of them. The show is titled Homage 10x5 Blake's Artists and has to be viewed. The opening party was a very jolly affair, everyone loving the work, and we all left with a smile. Leslie Waddington hosted a dinner for Peter and Chrissy at the Ivy and guests paid homage to Peter Blake, icon of Brit-Art and national treasure. Driving home in the early hours, I had a chance to look at the Christmas lights, which are fantastic this year; love Regent Street and Claridge's is positively to die for.

Peter and Chrissy Blake.

Virginia, Alan Yentob and Miranda Davies.

Julie's, celebrating 40 years of eclectic style, gave a fantastic party. Ruby cocktails, delicious canapés - and a Brazilian dance troupe sambaing through the restaurant and bar - was the perfect formula for the perfect night. Guests reminisced; everyone had a "Julie's" moment in their lives. Somehow I ended up pole-dancing with my neighbour Debbie, I guess this could be another Julie's moment.

Virginia and Debbie.

Antony Price and Judith Watt.

Julian and Emma Fellowes.

A Week Of Parties

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 14:11:03 +0100

Maria Grachvogel.

The collaboration of Christian Dior and illustrator René Gruau resulted in advertising becoming an art form. The launch party at Somerset House where Gruau's artwork is now on display, was as elegant and beautiful as the illustrations. Also on display were Haute Couture gowns and John Galliano's "Rosette" dress - made in tribute to Gruau. Great to see again was July's Haute Couture at Rodin's museum and I was reminded of how spectacular it was.

Back in the church at my favourite venue, One Mayfair, International Herald Tribune Heritage Luxury threw a magnificent party to celebrate 10 years of IHT Luxury Conferences. The iconic Suzy Menkes, the doyenne of fashion and the perfect hostess, wore scarlet leading the way - dress code hot, hip or heritage. The pulpit became the DJ booth with Daisy Lowe on the decks and Urban Caprice, as always, served delicious food.

After working my way through the crowds waiting for the "surprise spectacle" at Ralph Lauren's store, I finally got to Air Gallery in Dover Street where Lulu Guinness, Rob Ryan and Paloma Faith hosted a party. Bespoke fan bags were auctioned to raise funds for the charity ASAP: African Solutions for African People. As well as the bags, an exhibition of beautiful artwork is on display.
When I finally got back to my car, it was jammed in by three paparazzi Range Rovers, I did feel a bit of an idiot as I waded through the endless photographers trying to find out who owned them. It took a while but I finally made my way East and joined friends for a Birthday dinner at Bistrotheque.

Rosita Missoni, Ottavio Missoni and Suzy Menkes.

Hannah Marshall.

Daisy de Villeneuve and Jan de Villeneuve.

Erin O'Connor.

Stephen Webster, Anastasia Webster, Helena Bonham Carter and Tim Burton.

Lulu Guinness.

A Woman’s World

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 12:46:05 +0100

Bryan Ferry.

What a privilege to be under the same roof, all be it a chapel, with so many auspicious women. Bazaar's Women of the Year Awards held at One Mayfair was truly awesome. Among the winners were Annie Lennox, Natalia Vodianova and Zaha Halid, and the award for Man in a Woman's World went to, my favourite, the incredible Manolo. The applause nearly brought the vaulted roof down. The surprise of the evening was a performance by Bryan Ferry and the amazing women rocked well into the night.

In Style gave a party at Dolce & Gabbana, Bond Street. I'm always very happy to go to a posh shop event especially D&G. There are some incredible accessories this season and in case you're reading this Father Christmas, I've got my eye on the lace clutch bag.

Beatrix Ong.

Dizzee Rascal.

Virginia Bates, Lucy Yeomans and Natalie Massenet.

Jason Brooks and Natalia Vodianova.

Susie Bick and Virgina Bates.

Alice Temperley.

Harold Tillman and Beatrix Ong.

Surprise!

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 13:16:51 +0100

Lucy Yeomans and Penelope Tree.

For about a month 200 friends and colleagues managed to keep secret the surprise party for Lucy Yeomans to celebrate 10 years as editor of Harper's Bazaar and her 40th birthday. Guests were instructed to arrive promptly at 7.15, and even I managed to find my way to Shoreditch House on time. It really was a surprise, Lucy arrived completely unaware that her team had organised the most amazing party for her. It was very emotional and a lot of loving tears were shed. Henry Holland DJ'd and guests threw themselves onto the dance floor, smokers hung around the pool, which seemed a little dangerous as so much Laurent Perrier flowed freely. Congratulations Lucy and what a great night.

Bodil Blain.

Roksanda Ilincic.

Camilla Morton and Sara Buys.

Carole and Hamish McAlpine.

Partying With Mr Jones

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 15:05:40 +0100

A weekend away in Ibiza to celebrate a friend’s 50th birthday was hilarious and for a change it was my gang misbehaving on Ryanair. The party, held on the beach at Niu Blau, started Sunday lunchtime and ended at dawn. It was a little chilly but dancing to the music of The Rocca steel band was a perfect way to keep warm.
Back home and recovered, I joined Stephen Jones at the Wellington Club for a party to celebrate Snow Queen vodka. Never mind the vodka the bottle is gorgeous too. I remember the club as being quite grand and up-market but it's had "a horror" make-over which is right up my street, obviously. The dress code was hats and glamour which everybody adhered to, looking fabulous in Stephen's creations. Great party - I left with a bottle of Snow Queen under my arm, maybe not such a good look wondering along Knightsbridge.

Imodesty Baize (left)

The Williamson Set

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:36:42 +0100

Matthew Williamson and Sienna Miller co-hosted the launch of his book, at Somerset House. All scrubbed up after the invasion of LFW, the building has regained its majesty and is quite magical - especially at night. The book gives a detailed account of the designers work with beautiful illustrations and photographs. On my way to the car passed a crowd of monks who were taking an evening stroll beside the river, quite an amazing sight and I hadn't even been drinking.

From Paris With Love

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 15:15:09 +0100

John Galliano, Kate Moss and Virginia Bates.

What we do for love, eh! The love of fashion that is. Took a day trip to Paris for Dior pret-a-porter. Traipsing through the mud and dodging a hail of conkers in the Jardin des Tuileries was an art in itself - no health and safely here thank god. The inevitable mad crush, the anticipation, and it's all over in 20 minutes but so worth it. A South Pacific mix, brilliant silk dresses and cotton parkas with a nautical twist, embroidered and embellished robes - the show was stunning. In the rush to get backstage, the special effect 'golden smoke' still hung around the catwalk, making it impossible to navigate. I practically pulled some bloke's trousers off as I heaved myself up using his legs as a lever. He went down but I got through, not chivalry here! Needs must.

John Galliano.

Time to recover and have a quick bite at Castiglione before catching the train back home. Sunday cut it a bit fine arriving in Paris only an hour before John Galliano's show. Fortunately and fashionably late, the show at the rococo Opéra Comique - one of the most beautiful theatres I've ever seen - was perfect for Galliano. The theatre was packed with people leaning over the balconies and boxes waiting to be entertained and thrilled. Thrilling it was! Each outfit sent a shiver down my spine. The show was inspired by the shenanigans of the actress Maria Lani, who conned over fifty leading artists in the 1920's, including the likes of Cocteau, Mattise, Chagall, to paint her and before she then disappeared to America having sold the lot. The models totally got into the spirit of the show and really worked it. John took his bow through a shower of gold sequins, definitely one of his best ever, ever.

Yasmin Le Bon.

A Fashion Crime

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:49:36 +0100

My Fashion Week window took a major knocking when a burglar bulldozed his way through the plate glass of the shop, trampling on the display and knocking over the famous Fashion Bus and Dolls. Frankly, I was stunned by the intrusion, let alone the burglary but, thanks to everyone's support in Clarendon Cross and rallying around, I've got through it. Although Ralph's Charity box being taken was pretty sick (www.ralphbatespcrf.org.uk). It took a couple of days to recover but the shop has regained it's dignity, is up-and-running and is more magical than ever (even if I say so myself!).

READ THE FULL NEWS STORY HERE

Going to a reception at the V&A for Diaghilev and the Golden Age of the Ballets Russes could not have been more therapeutic. The exhibition is brilliant, with costumes by Leon Bakst, Mattise drawings, designs, posters, massive backcloths and a fun film of ballerina Tamara Karsavina dancing. It has to be seen.
James Long's menswear show was a dream too - quite trippy. His signature knitwear in psychedelic colours and silver grey wools, teamed with bright silk and tailored shirts, the hallucinogenic trousers and his jackets are all amazing.
One of my favourite actors Michael Gambon is playing at The Duchess Theatre in Becketts' Krapps Last Tape. He gives a master-class performance and at the first night the audience went mad, giving him a standing ovation.

I took, as my guest, the drop dead gorgeous James Long to an 'event' at Annabel's with the promise of dinner and a performance by Ruthie Henshall. Getting into the spirit of the evening (torrential) we did a quick rendition of Singing in the Rain in Berkley Square before carefully teetering into the club's basement. We were then smartly grounded by the doormen who couldn't find my name on 'the list'. He asked the gentleman, my date, if he had a jacket and tie under his coat (hand woven with threads of gold), to which I replied " he has a whole collection straight of last week's catwalk!" But he wasn't impressed, not even by my fabulous Stephen Jones hat, delivered the same afternoon. So we left and fell into the welcoming arms of Claridge's where we found friends in the great bar and I learnt the art on sipping cocktails through a veil. Sorry James you didn't get dinner but hey, we did have a few laughs.

London Fashion Week

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 09:32:38 +0100

John Rocha.

LFW started with David arriving at the crack of dawn to do the annual pruning, and what better way to start the week than having a lumber jack in the garden. In the spirit of the day, Betty Jackson's show, inspired by the women's land army of the Forties, was brilliant and I'm mad about the flamboyant marabou capes and trousers.

This season FW had to compete with the Pope, and London virtually came to a standstill as the Pope Mobile took centre stage. Appropriately John Rocha's show opened to the tune of Amazing Grace, the models sashayed down the catwalk wearing black chiffon and tulle dresses - so delicate, the hats dreamy and the leather backpacks were genius.

Suzy Menkes and Dolly Jones.

The Flower Cellars in Covent Garden were so packed you could hardly move. John Galliano who returned to London as chair of Fashion Fringe announced the winner, Corrie Nielsen, to a rapturous applause. Her collection inspired by illustrators from the 18th century was beautiful - I loved it.

Jasper Conran's show inspired by summers at Deauville, Le Touquet and Capri made me want to pack a bag and go on holiday. Playful and fresh with witty seashore printed dresses, the collection was discreet, luxurious and the white plimsolls so cool.
Julien Macdonald at Banqueting House was, as always, undeniably sexy. Exquisite floaty dresses, babydoll negligees accompanied with great jackets in ticking were fun.

Time for a much needed coffee break in St James’ Park and a gossip with fashionistas is always good during FW, then on to the Great Hall for Berardi. The soundtrack played Make A Wish Count To Three, which I did and I'm hoping the little black dress, divinely cut with skinny sleeves and a devorée dress with chiffon bells, might land my way. The finale dress in soft pink with flowing train, was to die for.

Kristina Blahnik, Antonio Berardi and Virginia Bates.

Dashed to Harvey Nics to stock up on Eve Lom cleanser, the windows are amazing, such fun and it costs nothing to look. I find railway stations very emotional and the Topshop venue is in the old Eurostar building. There's an Alice in Wonderland feeling, when you arrive at the show, the way you used to leave the train if you get my meaning. Nina Simone tearing her heart out over the loud speaker made me feel too sad, then thank god for Richard Nicoll, who produced a glam rock show, with silk dresses, sunray pleated chiffon skirts, white trouser suits complimented with fab geometric jewellery by Erickson Beamon. By the time the show finished we were practically rocking in the aisles.

Erdem's show held under a large white awning in Bedford Square could not have been more beautiful. Inspired by the Ballet Russes, the collection was breathtaking. Dresses with appliqué flowers sat on top of lace in brilliant colours, sweeping gowns in his signature prints - amazing. Half an hour before the next show The Sheperdess in East, London didn't know what had hit it, as fashionistas piled in for a fashion snack only to be served mountains of chips with everything, including my banana sandwich. Who cares - you eat what and when you can during FW!

Roksanda Ilincic.

Across the road, Christopher Kane’s show was a joy. Vibrant and dazzling, the dayglow lace dresses stunning - a girl's ideal party dress. Dashed to the On/Off in Bloomsbury for Roksanda - a delightful collection featuring billowing organza creations, great silhouettes in smoke, ice and sky blues, each piece a reflection of the beautiful Roksanda herself.

Erdem and Virginia Bates.

Matches held a dinner at Mortons in honour of Erdem. The front of the building was covered in marbleised grey balloons and the table setting unbelievably chic. I left clutching my Erdem balloon, the perfect end to a perfect day.

Invasion At Montblanc

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 11:48:11 +0100

Virginia Bates.

Lady Helen Taylor.

As the heavens opened, I arrived at Bentley & Skinner the London jewellers. The evening was hosted by Lady Helen Taylor, ambassador for CLIC Sargent, the cancer charity for children. I arrived absolutely soaked and before entering the beautiful premises, had to wring out my silk dress on the red carpet outside. The jewels are mouth-watering and I hope the evening raised lots of money for such a worthwhile cause.

Between deluges, I beetled over to The Serpentine where Montblanc launched the John Lennon Special Edition pen, Imagine. Not only a work of art but a contribution to the cultural community, with part of the proceeds going towards supporting young artists.

A Daddy-Long-Legs landed on Fyfe Dangerfield as he got up on stage to perform. Thank God for everyone it hadn't landed on me, not being that partial to spiders I would have been hysterical. Fyfe opened the set with Imagine and was joined by the beautiful Coco Sumner. Guests danced and the Daddy-Long-Legs stayed for the set and then flew off, not quite sure where but I wasn't taking any chances so I left. A good time was had by all.

Debbie Moore.

Fashion’s Night Out

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 09:23:24 +0100

If only I had a magic carpet (from The Rug Company of course), I’d have flown to Antwerp for Stephen Jones’ opening reception of his exhibition, The Accent of Fashion. You know it’s going to be amazing - it’s on until February so I might get a gang together and go after fashion week. I don’t want to miss the opportunity to see his hats and I adore Stephen.

Manolo Blahnik launched a pop-up shop at Liberty, and to celebrate the opening Lucy Yeomans and Ed Burstell gave a champagne party in his honour. The shoes are to die for obviously, and the selection of umbrellas an essential accessory. Guests were ferried to Soho Hotel for more cocktails and a screening of one of Manolo’s favourite films, Visconti’s Senso.

Carmen Dell’Orefice and the London College of Fashion launched David Downton’s book, Masters of Fashion Illustration, at the Oliver Messell suite. The book is lavishly illustrated, following the careers of David’s favourite artists from the belle époque to New Wave glamour. Probably because I love his style so much, my favourite section is his own work, featuring drawings of Paris Haute Couture.

Vogue’s Fashion Night Out, a global celebration of fashion, is a brilliant idea with shopping events going on all over town. I hit Bond Street which was like a carnival; the music deafening, with every shop doing its own thing and offering amazing cocktails. I settled for popcorn at DKNY and macaroons in YSL with D&G attracting the biggest crowd. Two motorbikes (probably paps), had been left parked against my car, completely jamming me in, but thankfully two very nice security guys from Gucci without any difficulty picked them up and I moved onto the next venue.

At Baglioni, Natalia Vodianova gave a party to thank all the artists who had donated their work to raise funds for her charity, The Naked Heart Foundation. Such a lovely gesture and what a fab girl.

Shoes At Selfridges

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:41:55 +0100

With my weakness for shoes, I couldn’t wait to check out the newly opened Shoe Gallery in Selfridges. For some reason the side entrances were closed - so everyone pushed their way through the revolving doors. Once in, the noise was as deafening as the Carnival and I got swept along the ground floor by hundreds of screaming children. Boy band JLS were doing Selfridges and somehow I managed to get trapped in the middle of a crowd of fans. Some kid’s belt got hooked into my lace sleeve and was dragged off me. In the end I succumbed and went with the flow until they left through a side door.

Deafened and very bedraggled, I found the Shoe Gallery and happily collapsed onto a gorgeous velvet banquet. Beautifully designed by Canadian architect Jamie Fobert, the department is a shoe haven with all the usual posh designers - each in their own room. I find the assistants a bit pushy - one tried to sell me a pair of Ferragamo’s with the highest and most lethal looking heels and tulle nude ties on a Perspex sole. The shoes would literally be a killer on me.

Marginally cheaper shoes are displayed on genius pewter tabletops and original wooden lasts. Christian Louboutin is opening his room tomorrow (September 2) Fashionistas, lets give him the JLS treatment and get down there!

Mushroom Moves

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 15:49:59 +0100

For the last few Sundays, I’ve been blackberry picking with my friend Mary, along the hedgerows of Duke’s Meadows. Mary makes the best jam and I can cook up a pretty good blackberry and apple crumble. On our way back last Sunday, laden with berries and a few foraged plums, we passed the playing fields at Chiswick School which were full of mushrooms. Mary was a tiny bit worried incase they were the wrong sort, but I know my mushrooms and re-assured her. After a few false starts and a lot of giggles, she legged it over the fence (I was wearing the wrong sort of shoes!), picked loads and then of course couldn’t get back. Finally I climbed on to a litterbin and hauled her back over. Well worth the trouble, the mushrooms were delicious and I survived to tell the tale. Everyone needs a friend like Mary.

Delights Of Bath

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:28:17 +0100

I read that the Fashion Museum in Bath had a collection of rare Thirties evening dresses by Madeleine Vionnet and decided to go for the day to view them. My dear friend, writer, Tim Goode met me at the station and, after a canter around the antique arcade and vintage shops, we went to the Fashion Museum.

The Vionnet collection was disappointing as there were only two dresses on display, but the exhibition did have some impressive 18th century court dresses and accessories and a very large mourning dress belonging to Queen Victoria. There was also a collection of dresses worn by Princess Diana on her Royal tours.
We had booked tea at The Royal Crescent Hotel, but arrived at the same time as two ambulances so decided maybe this wasn’t such a good time.

We took the short drive out of Bath to Dyrham Park, following the curves of the drive between herds of grazing deer, and suddenly saw the unforgettable sight of the Grand Mansion. Tom Elliott, who I’m a great fan of, has an exhibition of paintings inspired by Dyrham Park’s collection of 17th and 18th century Delftware and the artist Hoogstraeten. My favourite room was the Damask Bedchamber in particular the state bed - its elaborate canopy hung with rich fabrics in crimson and yellow velvet. The bed has never been slept in - what a waste.

Perhaps the highlight of the day was having a candlelit supper in Tim’s magnificent Georgian dining room. It’s so quick and easy to get to Bath, I wonder why I don’t do this more often. Travelling back watching the sunset was a sheer delight.

Riviera Perfect

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:57:59 +0100

I couldn’t resist an invitation to spend the weekend at a château on the Riviera. Unfortunately the only flight available was with Easyjet, who I vowed I’d never travel with again. Landing at Nice during a storm was pretty scary, but it wasn’t the pilot’s fault and we landed safely, if not a little queasily.

The bay in front of the château was full of boats, including Abramovich’s which was quite riveting. The weather cleared and was fantastic. It’s a very different scene to my usual Ibiza look - everyone is decked head-to-toe in designer labels. The sun loungers are laid so close together you can’t stretch your arms out and my straw bag - as opposed to the uniform Louis Vuitton beach bag - very much frowned upon. Oops a fashion faux-pas!

The newly opened Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel is quite fab with its own restaurant and spa. I had a great massage in one of the cabanas on the beach.

Jacques Chibois’ new restaurant in Grasse is mind-blowing. Set in orchards of olive trees, with borders of lavender, the tables perched under an arbour of vines are beautiful and the food is unbelievable.

The journey back was horrendous with delays and only a miserable chicken bap left to eat on board. But hey, I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.

Kane’s Birthday

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:49:36 +0100

L-R: Lulu Kennedy, me and Tammy Kane

I don't know why I have such a problem going East but I do. Maybe it's because there's so much going on and I'm looking everywhere, dashing from left to right and then suddenly I don't know where I am and end up seriously lost. But it's such a great scene and I have to get a grip.

Charlie navigated me to the Bistrotheque (this was my 3rd attempt) but now I know where it is, it's going to be my new favourite place and the food is fabulous.

Erdem and Daniel Marks

Christopher Kane's birthday party is always the best fun, with that 'end of term' feeling - the last get together before the holidays. This year he celebrated at Dalston Superstore. I parked outside - perfect - all I had to do when I left was drive straight on, do a couple of right turns, and I'd know where I was. The party was amazing with DJ's Jodie Harsh and Princess Julia and believe me a very jolly time was had by all.

L-R:Tammy Kane, Christopher Kane and Judith Watt

L-R: Charlotte Long, James Long and James Holeman

On leaving, I remembered to drive straight on and take a couple of right turns but, unfortunately I hadn't realised I had to turn the car around first and obviously drove in the opposite direction ending up in Stratford completely lost. I'm thinking of doing the knowledge before venturing East again.

Richard Sloan

Ibizan Holiday Fix

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 13:59:15 +0100

Off to Ibiza for a quick fix. Stansted a bit different this time of year and packed. Bumped into Camilla Morton which was fab and we grabbed a quick coffee before she flew out to Trieste for a fashion show - how chic. I had Dino’s stag night to contend with on my flight, but it did make for a hilarious journey.

The fierce heat took some getting used to and I couldn’t get to the rock fast enough. A beach bar has appeared and annoyingly attracted loads of people. The Gazpacho and freshly grilled sardines are delicious and the crowd is actually very cool so perhaps I don’t mind that much and it’s always fun people watching.

The market at Las Dalias is as good as ever and great for finding original and quirky pieces.

Serpentine Couture

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 09:43:12 +0100

One thing I have learnt visiting Paris is, that unless you want to spend six weeks in plaster, save the heels and wear wedges. The Rodin Museum is divine but it’s all cobbles. Anyway, what better setting for John Galliano to show his Dior Haute Couture collection? On the lawn a temporary conservatory was erected with a massive parrot tulip installation by Michael Howells - matching the real tulips in urns outside.

Opening with a violet, mohair coat teamed with an orange, organdie skirt, the audience gasped at the floral gowns - each one resembling a different flower including a pansy, a poppy, an orchid and a tulip, with layers skilfully decorated and embellished with petal hems. Stephen Jones created headdresses from cellophane stitched together with invisible thread. The show was stunning. Outside on a bench a lady was nursing her broken heel (shoe) and wondering how she was going to limp back - I felt for her. Been there, who hasn’t?

The Summer Pavilion designed by Jean Nouvel for The Serpentine Gallery is dramatic and as red as a London bus. There are play areas with ping-pong and chess tables, perfect for The Serpentine Summer Party - this year sponsored by Jaguar. A fleet of Jags waited at the entrance, including my favourite car of all time, the E type in red of course. The evening was sweltering but didn’t deter guests (as glam as ever) from partying hard - either on the dance floor or at the ping-pong tables. Some of us, after sinking into the grass, threw our heels into a pile and danced ceremoniously around them. After dark it’s quite hard to see who you’re dancing with so this year I wore Christopher Kane’s Swarovski necklace, the crystals so bright I couldn’t be missed.

I saved the red goodie bag for the morning secretly hoping for a complimentary ride in the E type to a mystery destination, but there was just a red Frisbee which Daniel, my tortoise, was sitting in when I left home.

Glorious Galliano

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 09:59:16 +0100

When the invitation arrived from President Sarkozy to attend the ceremony awarding John Galliano with the Légion d'honneur, I practically dropped dead. What an honour for me to be invited and have the opportunity to pay homage to the maestro himself.

So off to Paris I went. The lounge at Eurostar was hilarious as guests assembled with Fran Cutler taking on the role as Head Girl and organising us all. Once in Paris, we were instructed not to be late, as "It's not fashion" and we trundled off to our hotels to get ready.

In order not to destroy my incredible headdress by Stephen Jones, the only way I could travel to the Elysée Palace was horizontally across the back seat of a taxi, with my very high Dior shoes poking out of the window. However, the guards weren't too impressed when I arrived and the driver rather rudely tipped me out of his cab onto the pavement in front of some very astonished tourists. I was made to wait for fifteen minutes before being let in and standing in the hot sun, head-to-toe in gold lamé, I did feel a complete prat! Once inside the Palace, everything was fine, obviously!

The ceremony was amazing, very emotional and we all shed a tear when Sarkozy pinned that medal onto John's lapel. Sidney Toledano hosted a reception at La Société in Saint Germain and, trust me, a good time was had by all. I finally left when my feet became too agonizing and I had to peel my shoes off and walk back to l' hotel, fortunately just around the corner.

A notice, warning non-ticket holders that a two hour wait is to be expected, didn't deter me from queuing at the Petit Palais for the sensational Yves Saint Laurent exhibition. The first retrospective shows about 300 Haute couture models with a selection of pictures, drawings and films. My favourite room, entitled The Last Ball, shows garments worn at the Costume Balls of the elite, eccentric and amazing swansong of these "mondanities". Behind a gauze screen, a rail displays a collection made for Catherine Deneuve, and the last room is fascinating, with swatches of colour palettes on paper sheets of A4 completely covering the walls.

The inspiration for John Galliano Homme spring/summer goes from silent scene icons Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, to the romantic Death in Venice, then onto athletic Matt Dillon. The collection is fantastic, it's what we expect. The show took place in a de-funked bank on Place Vendome, the dressing room downstairs in the vaults - so very Galliano.

Six Senses, a newly opened Spa on Rue de Castiglione is heaven and very, very chilled, offering every treatment imaginable. I highly recommend their body moisturizer, made from hand-harvested seaweed, it does the trick.

Dropped into Costes for a plate of fraises des bois before heading back to Eurostar and to the real world!

Ascot Perfect

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 16:30:36 +0100

At the annual meeting at St George’s Hospital in Tooting for the Ralph Bates Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund Unit, the trustees are updated on any new research. It’s a miserable cancer and the prognosis is generally not too good. The research work undertaken at the hospital is impressive and I am extremely grateful to all the people who have given so generously and, as a result have funded an Endoscopic Ultrasound. This really has benefited many patients and kept the research unit going. www.ralphbatespcr.org.uk

I was thrilled to be a guest of the talented shoe designer Beatrix Ong at a night at the ballet - how perfect. Starting with cocktails at the Dorchester I had the opportunity to meet some of the ballerinas then we were ferried by Route Master to the Royal Albert Hall, where the English National Ballet performed Swan Lake in-the-round. It was a fantastic production featuring 60 swans with jugglers and acrobats. The beautiful Russian ballerina Polina Semionva as Odette/Odile is so convincing you believe she is a swan. I noticed that Beatrix wore a pair of shoes with wings on the ankle – how appropriate.

It really was a perfect day for Royal Ascot’s Ladies Day, the girls were out in force and fabulous as ever.

During lunch in the Bessborough Restaurant, we were given a catwalk show from designers Amanda Wakeley, Matthew Williamson, Gieves & Hawkes, Vivienne Westwood and my host Stephen Jones. Following his show the ladies stood to acknowledge the Maestro of Milliners and applauded him.

After the Royal procession, it was down to the winning post (best position) to do the serious stuff and place a few bets. As the afternoon went on the excitement escalated, the girls letting down their guard and shouting encouragement at the horses. Unfortunately, I wasn’t so lucky this year - could be because I didn’t buy the ‘lucky’ heather from a couple of scary gypsies when I arrived. Better cross their palms with silver next time.

All Hail Harrods

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:46:47 +0100

On the first floor, in the Veuve Cliquot Bar at Harrods, Loewe a name synonymous with luxury, gave a cocktail party to unveil their latest collection. Luxury it is - the leather is soft, subtle and elegant and you’d sure feel a million dollars in one of the coats.

A big part of the Summer Season is the preview party of the Royal Academy’s annual show. This year the theme is RAW. Guests have the opportunity to purchase original artwork from a range of high-profile and up-and-coming artists.

David Mach’s Silver Streak King Kong, made entirely from wire coat hangers, is pretty sensational and, my absolute favourite, a huge painting in oil and acrylic by Rosson Crowe entitled Poverty Party at the White House, is hilarious. Guests gathered around what I thought was an installation but in fact was coups of strawberries and cream - our pudding. In the courtyard on the pink carpet, the late Barry Flanagan’s Three Dancing Hares towered over guests and reminded me of good times shared with him at Sol d’en Serra in Ibiza. Here’s to you Barry!

In my enthusiasm to support England in the World Cup I dropped a massive flag which now lies crumpled on my conservatory roof and will probably lie there forever. Come on England!

I Heart NY

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 09:39:11 +0100

Why is it always my bag that gets pulled over for a Special Security search at the airport? I’d seen a notice saying that food couldn’t be guaranteed on the flight, so I’d stocked up with fruitcake and biscuits from the lounge. Aside from the embarrassment, the flight with BA to New York was perfect.

The city was sweltering but once I’d adjusted and with no time to waste, I went straight to the launch party of Fall on Your Sword a really cool new music studio in Brooklyn.

Next day up at the crack of dawn (jet lag) wandered around the West Village waiting for the shops to open. Aedes de Venistas great for perfumed candles, Maffa for cool clothes and John Devion is my favourite shop in the East Village, where I found amazing wrapping paper and printed tissue.

Everyone raves about Boom Boom Room at the top of the Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District and I can completely understand why. Fun and glamorous with staggering views over Manhattan, although I did slightly freak out in The Powder Room as the loo is practically up against the window 18 floors up and as I’m prone to vertigo it was rather alarming. Round the corner at Soho House, half of New York was trying to cool off in the rooftop pool, but I settled for the burger and chips – the best.

Away from the bustle and noise, took the ferry to Fire Island for a couple of days. Deserted white beaches, no cars and only a couple of grocery stores, it’s the perfect place to chill.

Back in the city and wandering around Brooklyn there are so many new shops and restaurants that have opened since I was here a year ago. An abundance of vintage stores and I discovered the largest laundrette, handy for the few pieces I found to wash, and surely the envy of Dot from Eastenders.

Walter Summer on Grand Street is a great restaurant and will be doing special breakfasts on World Cup days. Aurora for Italian food also amazing.

Having had my New York hit, I slept all the way back on the plane, re-charged and ready for our summer.

Sultry Sexy Scent

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:16:34 +0100

Laura Mercier gave a party at Momo’s to launch her Amber Passion Elixir and let me tell you it’s going to be the hot scent this summer – sultry, sensuous and very sexy.

In need of a New York hit, so taking off for a week to get a piece of the magic.

Flower Power

Fri, 28 May 2010 15:35:24 +0100

Tom of Harper & Toms celebrated his 70th birthday at the Twentieth Century Theatre. Spectacularly festooned with his own flowers, a steel band played, as the Notting Hill set thronged to congratulate him.

With my penchant for changing outfits whilst driving in the car, seat belts etc are far too destructive on my clothes, it’s always embarrassing to be caught especially red-handed by a fashion stylist. But in this case, the stylist ended up climbing into the back of the beetle, rummaged through my bag and completely re-styled me.

How fab to get another chance to see Browns exhibition at the Regent Penthouses and Lofts. Dinner, hosted by Lucy Yeomans in aid of Women for Women International, and with guest of honour the elegant and great Mrs B. The charity helps thousands of women in war-torn regions transform their lives and an auction raised a huge amount. Dinner for eight cooked by Mark Hix at the bidder’s house went for a fantastic £6,500 and how fabulous would that be.

On the way to The Chelsea Flower Show, I drove slowly down Sloane Street to see Chelsea’s alternative Floral Art Show. The shop front is magnificently adorned with flowers and this year’s theme Alice in Wonderland, meant that each display is not only fantastic but also has a witty twist. An absolutely perfect day and RHS Chelsea Flower Show is completely mind blowing. The whole experience so moving, as the effort is beyond. Loved The Eden Project’s garden and Green & Blacks Rain Forest. Christian Dior’s Pool Garden is a recreation showing the great designer’s passion for gardening. Roses remain true to the original with the scents of jasmine and lily of the valley, Dior’s signature flower.

Found Susannah Hunter with a crowd of admirers on her stand, her signature flower bags so much a part of Chelsea and am loving this season’s look.

Later at home in my garden watering drooping lupins, I vowed to make more of an effort and find my green fingers.

Temperley And The Tortoise

Thu, 20 May 2010 10:08:42 +0100

Alice Temperley, Annie Lennox and Simon De Pury hosted a dinner in aid of Oxfam at Phillips De Pury in Victoria. One-off canvases embroidered by Alice Temperley and True British Images by Norman Parkinson were sold in a lively and lucrative auction by Simon De Pury during dinner. The picture of Annie Lennox went for £7,000 and Sophie Dahl’s made £11,000. I had my eye on a print of Jean Shrimpton for Queen magazine from the Sixties, but had to settle for the postcards in the goodie bag. Mark Hix was responsible for dinner, which was amazing and I did tuck into two Perry Jellies with raspberries.

Daniel (tortoise) is up and running after a confusing and long hibernation. He/she emerged from his/her Harrods box a month ago and promptly went back to bed, wrapped in a duvet on the kitchen floor. Now properly awake he/she is roaming the garden in search of cherries. Hurrah summer is arriving!

New Collections And Celebrations

Fri, 14 May 2010 15:58:15 +0100

Gary Wright and Sheila Teague gave a cocktail party to launch their new Nuba collection at Dover Street. The collection takes the inspiration from Africa and is very spiritual. Hand forged collars, gaiters and armbands inspired by grasses were so original - and there was a solid gold ring with rubies I could kill for.

The Regent Penthouses and Lofts in Marshall Street is a new venue and will host many a party. Perfect for Browns: 40 Years of Fashion Innovation. The exhibition tells the fascinating story of Browns with portraits of designers and friends by Paolo Roversi and donated archive pieces. The iconic Joan Burstein hosted a glamorous party giving guests the first viewing of a not to be missed exhibition.

A Fashion Moment

Wed, 05 May 2010 16:13:47 +0100

My local Daunt Books launched Bus Stop, one of the key fashion shops of the Seventies. Written by the founder Lee Bender, guests crowded around her remembering some of the party outfits we’d bought for a mere £20.

An evening at Sanderson is one to celebrate, especially at the tenth anniversary party held in aid of CLIC Sargent. Had a fashion moment when figuring out what to wear and decided on a hat. Found the perfect topper in Paul Smith but then on my way to the party, nearly lost my cool at the petrol station when I was accused of being a Notting Hill weirdo!

Couldn’t get to Sanderson quick enough - and what a relief to see the beautiful people out in force. Florence and the Machine played in the candlelit indoor garden and nearly raised the glass roof. The goody bag was fab and included a free kick-boxing class at Epic Gym, a must; a membership card to Aqua Spa; and, amongst various make-up samples, a brilliant pink eye shadow.

I could be tempted to use it next time I’m at the petrol station.

Conran Country

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:31:25 +0100

The Conran shop was the obvious venue for Jasper Conran to launch his first book, Country. With magnificent photographs by Andrew Montgomery, the book is so beautiful it made me want to pack my bags and move to the country.

Congratulations to everyone who took part in the London Marathon - and especially to Bertie, James Corbin and Dolly.

Amazing Grace

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 15:42:41 +0100

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco gave a moving speech, opening the exhibition at the V&A dedicated to his late mother Grace Kelly. Her story is told in outfits, beginning at Philadelphia where she was born, followed by costumes from her Hollywood days in movies, the Fairytale Wedding and spectacular couture gowns with stately jewellery.

The exhibition includes the sunglasses, which became her signature accessory, and the famous Kelly bags named after her by Hermes and designed to conceal her pregnancy. My favourite dress is a romantic gown in shell pink silk by Maggy Rouff which she wore in the USA, putting her on the best dressed list. The exhibition is a tribute to a style icon who epitomised elegance, classic chic and drama.

Easter Treats

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 10:36:28 +0100

Easter is a time when it’s absolutely ok to indulge oneself in guilty pleasures - and where better than CocoMaya? The Easter eggs are exquisite, witty and extremely chocolatey, the hot cross buns; the best.

A weekend of treats included supper at Hix, on Brewer Street. Kicking off with the infamous Hix Fix (Champagne with morello cherry soaked in brandy!), I recommend the Heaven and Earth starter followed by grilled lobster or Aberdeen steak. It’s a great looking space with some serious art - mobiles by Damien Hirst and Sarah Lucas dangling from the lofty ceiling - a great accompaniment to the amazing food.

A couple of years ago Petersham Nurseries was one of those special places to visit - have lunch, wander around the nursery and believe you were in The Secret Garden - but going bank holiday weekend was daft, as half of London had the same idea, destroying all my illusions. It took me over half an hour to get out down the narrow lane. A volunteer took control and lined up all the cars ordering each one out in turn, it was hilarious. Next time I’ll go back on a weekday, because I know the magic’s still there.

One Enchanted Week

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:30:50 +0100

Malene Birger with Sharleen Spiteri at her flagship store launch

Malene Birger, the Danish designer, has launched her flagship store in Marylebone High Street and the Champagne flowed at the opening party. The spring/summer 2010 collection is predominately cream and black, so chic, and I was thrilled with the huge soft beach towel of the same in the goody bag. Straight to Ibiza!

A quilt from the V&A exhibition - George III reviewing the troops (detail), 1803 – 1805, Unknown maker, © V&A Images

So annoying, as a migraine prevented me from going to a fundraising reception at the V&A Quilts Exhibition. Fine Cell Works is a charity that trains and pays inmates to do quality embroidery and soft furnishings in prison. I hear that the evening was a great success.

Vivienne Westwood's creation for The Enchanted Palace © Rex Features

On the same night was the opening of The Enchanted Palace; Kensington Palace has been transformed into a world of dream-like installations and flights of fashion fancy. On show is The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection and contemporary designers Stephen Jones, Vivienne Westwood and Boudicca have also contributed and, with the help of professional actors, you are made to feel a part of the emotion and drama that runs through the history of The Enchanted Palace.

Shoe by Tabitha Simmons

Tabitha Simmons has launched her shoe collection at Browns Shoes and obviously I couldn’t get to Brook Street quick enough. Trust me the shoes are to die for.

Spanish Adventure

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:32:49 +0100

Everyone loves going to Claridge’s, it is the ultimate in chic so it’s all heels out. The Dowager Duchess of Devonshire and Catherine Ostler, editor of Tatler, celebrated the reissue of Nancy Mitford’s Wigs On The Green, in assosiation with Dior. Frankly where better than the French Salon, decorated with Dior roses, irresistible canapés and lots of bubbly ending with a nightcap Fumoir bar? A perfect evening.

On route to Ibiza I flew over Barcelona which was completely covered with snow, for a moment I thought I’d boarded the wrong plane and was on route to a ski resort! Pretty cold in Ibiza, thankfully no snow.

Trying to get an orchard going at the finca and my friend Robert took me round some garden centres, which is about all that’s open this time of year. Bought six fruit trees, piled them on to his Mahari car and then annoyingly got stuck in mud. It took two other blokes and me to push the car out and I lost a pair espadrilles, which had taken all of last summer to get the perfect sun bleached look. I guess there are more important things to get cross about, but that’s fashion for you!

My hand luggage back consisted of freshly picked wild asparagus, great in an omelette and eight grapefruit from the garden - nice! Having re-charged my batteries, as it were, I’m ready to go again.

SEE WHO ELSE WAS AT THE WIG PARTY HERE

A Trip To Galliano Land

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:03:14 +0100

The Eurostar Lounge at the beginning of Paris Fashion Week is a show in itself; fashionistas, models, stylists and editors carrying enormous handbags and designer suitcases, wearing impossible heels and still managing to look super cool.

As usual I was struggling going up the escalator when, to add to my embarrassment my friend Christopher Biggins on the adjacent escalator shouted across to me giving his usual witty banter. Everyone was in fits of laughter.

At Dior, entitled The Seduction of the Libertine, the collection featured equestrian chic, with fragile tulle dresses, dramatic cavalry coats, ruffles and lace - very sexy, very romantic. I sat next to a Dior client who gasped as each outfit appeared and I had to practically peel her off the floor.

Paris was freezing and I was glad to be wearing my Eastenders coat until I arrived at L’Hotel, where the carpets are the same faux leopard. Very confusing!

So annoying when the ticket to a show doesn’t arrive and getting into Galliano is impossible without one, but nothing was going to stop me when mine wasn’t delivered. The crush to get in was insane but just as well for me, as I was literally pushed in with the crowd. Phew!

The show opened with an explosion of light and finished with a running flame along the runway under a shower of gold sequins. The Galliano girl for next winter has a nomadic look: layered in luscious brocades, astrakhan and tulle; encrusted with Mongolian fur and metal jewellery; and in harem pants and spike-heel trekking boots. I wouldn’t mind following her across Galliano land.

Having nearly been mown down by the paparazzi chasing Lindsay Lohan, Camilla, Amy and I searched in vain for a taxi and then settled for the Metro. As there appeared to be no ticket office we had to leapfrog over the barrier, not done that in years and not so easy in heels. I spent the rest of the day convinced I was going to be arrested having gate-crashed a show and travelled on the Metro without a ticket, but needs must.

At hotel St James and Albany, Elisa Palomino’s enchanting and seductive collection consisted of suede and chiffon flapper dresses with lace inserts, embellished cardigans and a panné velvet puffer jacket to die for.

Trawling round the shops as you do in Paris, Colette (rammed as it is), still stocks the season’s must-haves and the café downstairs is brill. Nice to see Wiggles (Judith Watt’s dachshund) immortalised in Erdem’s print.

Back at L’Hotel I was given an Oscar Wilde cocktail before leaving. God knows what’s in it, but it sure warmed me up and I slept all the way back on the Eurostar.

Love And Long

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:41:04 +0100

Natalia Vodianova and Lucy Yeomans hosted The Love Ball in aid of The Naked Heart Foundation, a charity which builds playgrounds for children in Russia and the UK.

The Roundhouse was beautifully decorated with a circus theme, but just as we sat at our tables for dinner, the special effect smoke set off the fire alarm and we all had to evacuate. Outside in the freezing cold, gentlemen proved that the age of chivalry has not died and offered their D.J’s to the shivering ladies. After half an hour we were given the all clear and the evening continued; delicious food by Urban Caprice and great entertainment from Ruby Wax with Yusuf Islam, Leona Lewis, Sharleen Spiteri and Paloma Faith.

The auction raised over a million pounds with a massive applause for Peter Blake whose I Love You collage raised £1,600. Fun evening and I only just made it to Somerset House for menswear the following morning.

The harsh winter may have been the inspiration for Christopher Shannon’s show; with layers of shearing, fur textiles and accessories with knitted snowflakes matching the painted faces. James Long’s (below) Boiler Room Boys, wearing his signature punky knits and thick cords were also ready for a cold snap. Printed red coats with matching hold-alls - and the boiler suits are definitely the season’s must-have. Final day of LFW, fashionistas were still queuing to pay homage to the great Alexander McQueen.

Having stumbled through the park to get to the Serpentine Gallery, I discretely scraped the mud from my heels before going in for the opening of Richard Hamilton’s show. Regarded as the father of Pop Art, the exhibition focuses on the artist’s political and protest work. A highly respected and popular artist, the gallery was rammed and outside the endless queue, with guests clutching plastic glasses of beer, braved the cold.

Fashion Week Frolics

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:06:46 +0100

Phew, managed to do both Eastenders and the Bafta Cocktail party, as a dear friend came to the rescue and leant me her flat around the corner for that crucial half hour. I sat with her boxer dog, appropriately called Bastard, both of us riveted to the television. Two minutes later I was divulging the hot news to a crowd of partygoers.

On Sunday a combination of Chinese New Year, The Baftas and LFW completely gridlocked the West End. Made my way through a procession of Dragons ending up at Somerset House. Jasper Conran’s show was daringly stylish. Vibrant colours, revealing shapes and trés trés chic. Ordered a couple of hats from Stephen Jones, the collection is amazing - I could have had at least six more.

Monday didn’t start off too well when my essential brolly jammed and I had to dump it. In contrast to the weather, Antonio Berardi’s show was absolute heaven. Skilfully tailored jackets with sexy pencil skirts and a glimpse of black lace and divine long velvet dresses, each outfit worn with dangerously high stilettos by Christian Louboutin.

At the Flower Cellars, Covent Garden, Topshop had thoughtfully set up a running café and after Marmite toast and a poached egg, everyone clambered to their seats for Christopher Kane’s knockout show. Black leather and patent skirts, jackets and dresses were beautifully embroidered with brilliant wild flowers and - just to give each piece even more sex appeal - inserts of black lace. Boots and shoes by Guiseppe Zannotti were also embroidered; the show was “beyond”.

A single blue moon rose placed on our seat was a romantic touch from Roksanda Ilincic. The models entered through an arch festooned with flowers framing each outfit. Jackets and coats in mixed textiles were draped in silver fox, slinky satin gowns - some embellished with enlarged crystals - giving us the elegance and glamour we associate with Roksanda.

At Erdem’s show - in Senate House, Russell Square - the models managed to go up and down the marble staircase without a single hitch. A sexy raincoat which the audience sighed over opened the show. Bell-like skirts, flowing gowns with ruffled bodices in his signature print; flowers, birds and butterflies, were to die for. Matching ankle boots by Nicholas Kirkwood worn with socks were a nice touch.

Back at Somerset House, time to ogle and order some amazing shoes from Beatrix Ong before Jaeger.

Jaeger’s collection, synonymous with luxury, was effortlessly chic; silk crepe dresses, tapered trousers and some stylish hats by Noel Stewart. After supper at Shoreditch House, how perfect to end the day celebrating with Christopher Kane and his lovely gang.

Film, Fashion and Friday Night Dilemmas

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 17:22:00 +0100

PlayStation held its premiere for Heavy Rain at The Electric cinema. A discussion followed with the writer/director Neil LaBute on the subject “How far would you go to save someone you love?”. Then, before we could finish our cocktails, a screening of Performance. Some of it was shot around the corner in Powis Square and actually nothing has changed except the rubbish has gone.

The fashion pack are back and out in force for LFW. Packed into the elegant Palm Court at the Waldorf; the perfect venue for Maria Grachvogel, whose collection as usual was gorgeous.

Popped into The National Portrait Gallery to view Irving Penn’s Portraits and bumped into a few fashionistas paying homage between the shows.

But here’s the big dilemma… Eastenders’ live episode for Archie’s murder revelations clashes with the Harper’s Bafta cocktail party hosted by Kate Winslet!

East End Girl

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:27:51 +0100

To celebrate 25 years of Eastenders, Camilla Morton and I (both devoted fans), found ourselves in Shoreditch for an exhibition featuring iconic sets, props and costumes. Crowds gathered to ogle at murder weapons, wedding dresses and Queen Vic herself.

Bit disappointing as we’d hoped that at least a Mitchell would have made a personal appearance, but in the end we made do with Arthur’s bench.

Fortunately the exhibition was right next door to the Rivington so we could drown our disappointment!

At last, the Chiswick House Café has opened and it promises to be as yummy as before, although Eileen’s café is a hard act to follow. Now run by a Company of Cooks it was packed on Sunday and the park hasn’t even opened. With an extended marquee and the conservatory it’ll host many a summer party – can’t wait!

Ibiza And A Recovery Remedy

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:38:53 +0100

Travelling Ryanair this time of year to Ibiza for the weekend is one long party, so many familiar faces. The highlight; a walk through the almond groves at St Agnes to watch the full moon. Coming back we had a three hour delay but thanks to a rapper and a lively croupier from the casino, we were well entertained.

Celebrating women of beauty, style and elegance, Rodial launched the Rodial Beautiful Awards at the Sanderson Hotel. Paloma Faith received the award for “Most Edgy Look”- my favourite category. In the goody bag was a box of Rodial Glamoxy Snake Serum which helps reduce facial contraction in two minutes! Certainly worth a try so watch this face!

Dior Couture

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 14:00:34 +0100

Looking at the abundance of glossy carrier bags, it’s business as usual in Avenue Montaigne. After lunch at L’Avenue, teetered across to Dior for Haute Couture - and it doesn’t get more glam.

Each salon, decorated by Michael Howells, was filled with immaculate roses cascading from urns draped in duchess satin. The women in the audience, incredibly chic and elegant, were an inspiration.

The show opened to the sound of galloping hooves, transporting us to the Bois de Boulogne as the first model wearing a sexy riding jacket, skirt, silk top-hat with floating tulle and the must have new accessory: a riding crop.

Unbelievably lavish ball gowns with heavy crystal embroideries, organza and delicate lace, were works of art and took your breath away. Thank God for the magic of John Galliano.

Back on the Eurostar, gone are the days when I’d struggle home with bags of shoes now it’s all about Bonpoint!

Going Ungerground

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:03:02 +0100

It’s been 15 years since I travelled on the underground but my Beetle car doesn’t do snow, behaving more like a crab.

Whilst waiting for a train, I watched a small black mouse - very Goth, very Camden - climb into the turn-up of a woman’s trouser leg, and there he settled. Thought it best not to travel in the same carriage in case the mouse woke up and things got a bit lively.

In a desperate attempt to keep upright, bought a pair of CAT boots - not the sexiest of footwear perhaps so I’ve compensated by layering up. Luscious capes with a touch of Anna Karenina: I think I’ve mastered the snow, at least on the fashion front.

A New Arrival

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Bailed out of doing any cooking over Christmas and started the holiday having supper at The Wolseley, the restaurant a buzz of joviality. On the day, lunch at York and Albany where a magician and Father Christmas traditionally got more and more tipsy as the day went on.

Can’t remember how many delicious courses there were, but Angela Hartnett cooked a mean lunch - and what bliss not having all that clearing up.

December 30th 2.52am, my daughter Daisy gave birth to Ralph Woody Venville.

I got there just in time, as her labour only lasted two and a half hours, having followed the guidance of Dr Gowri - the author of Gentle Birth Method and founder of the Jeyarani Way -with Kasia, a gentle birth practitioner. Through diet, exercise and visualisation, learning when to take time and pause, the Gowri method is a phenomenon. She required no drugs and had no stitches and twenty minutes later we were having Marmite on toast in the delivery room - and best of all we now have Woody.

The Fashion Crowd

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:54:05 +0100

Everyone was on their best behaviour for The British Fashion Awards as the event took place at The Royal Courts of Justice, a spectacular Victorian building.

To celebrate 25 years of British Fashion, the Fashion Council produced a short film in 3D which was screened during dinner, 25 dresses for 25 of the most show stopping moments from the London catwalks.

During the awards ceremony a heart stopping moment was when the divine Karen Elson (wearing Alexander McQueen) did the most spectacular fall off the stage, we feared the worst but five minutes later she reappeared getting a standing ovation, the biggest applause of the night. She then elegantly presented the prestigious Isabella Blow award to Grace Coddington. What a trooper!

Instead of waiting outside for one of the million Addison Lee cars to turn up, in my dreams I imagined stepping into the Lord Mayor’s golden coach and being whisked off to Sarah Mower’s after party.

Dogs In Vogue

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:03:31 +0100

The gun shop Purdy’s on South Audley Street, was packed for Judith Watt’s celebration of Dogs in Vogue, a beautiful book and the perfect gift for dog lovers. Guests were encouraged to bring their pets, which often outdid their owners on the fashion stakes, except of course for Judith who, with her flame red hair piled high and wearing Antony Price looked absolutely stunning.

Hugh Devlin hosted supper at Two Brydges off St Martin’s Lane. Well-behaved dogs with their not so well-behaved owners tucked into a mean supper (best bread and butter pudding ever) and we toasted Judith’s success.

Stupidly thought it would be easy hailing a cab at one thirty in the morning and ended up climbing into a rickshaw to take me to my car outside Purdy’s. A terrifying experience and not to be recommended. I’ve had some fab goodie bags recently but this was the best, a "Doggy bag" which included a slab of chocolate from Cocomaya with the immortal words Life’s a Bitch. How hilarious!

Oh Christmas Tree

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:52:28 +0100

My favourite bag lady in the world, Susannah Hunter, has opened another shop - located in Connaught Street. The launch was catered by Cocomaya, who served delicious canapés made to look like an edible garden. Someone asked me if my coat (Twenties Erte´) belonged to my grandmother or whether had I picked it up in junk shop. Feeling rather crushed, I consoled myself with a bit of retail therapy and bought a beautiful album.

The Claridge’s Christmas tree designed by John Galliano for Dior is to die for; a tall whimsical Japanese tree with mysterious animals lounging on its branches, a panther, snake and parrots. Only Galliano could make a Christmas tree look sexy.

An exhibition of Dior vintage dresses was on display and guests, many wearing couture, sashayed up the winding staircase. Claridge’s surely is the perfect location. My Erte´ coat went down a treat and my confidence was restored.

Party, Party, Party

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:00:26 +0100

Fashionistas put on their best bib and tucker for Women for Women, hosted by Browns and The High Commissioner at The Canadian Embassy. Women for Women - an incredible charity - helps women survivors of war, civil strife and other conflicts.

A catwalk show took place with leading models wearing clothes donated by major designers which were then auctioned, 100 per cent of the proceeds going to the charity. The evening raised over £80,000 enabling the charity to continue its life-saving work.

Afterwards in Grosvenor Square a crowd of us slipped into flats and raced down Bond Street to catch the Prada party. Giggling in a doorway we swapped shoes and once suitably clad fell into the store which rocked. The party was given to present a book documenting the company’s diverse projects in fashion, architecture, film and art. Copies of the massive book were laid out on display.

Twenty mannequins formed a line down the centre of the room. Quite amazing that no one bumped into them creating the domino effect. Tempting it might have been but thankfully fashionistas can take their cocktails, know how to keep their balance and still be the height of fashion, literally.

How brilliant that Jade Jagger has opened her London boutique in W11 - and the launch party was the best fun. On two floors with a walled garden, her rock chick glamour and distinctive style is reflected in the store. Parked outside a mini had been converted into a photo booth and guests scrambled in to have a photograph taken. The clothes and jewellery look very tempting. I can’t wait to go back.

Lanvin And Chips

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:30:48 +0100

The Tod’s event for the launch of Italian Touch, a book sold in aid of the charity Over the Wall, was a celebration of Italian lifestyle. Very sophisticated partygoers, everyone speaking Italian, I felt as though I was in Rome. Cocktails and extravagant lumps of Parmesan were handed round, but I couldn’t figure out how to bite into the cheese delicately, so passed on that.

Alber Elbaz and Mika hosted a great party at Lanvin’s men’s boutique, launching Songs for Sorrow; an E.P of four songs by Mika in a book illustrated by nineteen artists including Alber, Peter Blake and Paul Smith. A charming book and will make a delightful Christmas present.

On my way home passed Harvey Nichols, the Christmas window is absolutely breathtaking.

Butler and Wilson’s 40th anniversary party was an extravagant affair, held at Koko, the theme: Studio 54 in Brazil. Unfortunately, on my way in, I skidded on wet leaves into someone carrying a bag of fish and chips. The entire contents flew over me and I stank of a chippie. The smell haunted me all evening but once over the embarrassment I really got into the party, great music and a fantastic floor show.

Happy Halloween!

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:20:00 +0100

At the London Film Festival saw 44 Inch Chest, a powerful drama and very funny. Great performances from Ray Winstone, John Hurt, Tom Wilkinson and directed by Malcolm Venville. At the after party at Maddox, guests drank vodka martinis and queued up to congratulate Malcolm on his first feature. A must when it's released in January.

Probably my downfall, but the opening of Cocomaya in Connaught Street is also something to celebrate. Not just a chocolatier but now an artisan baker, patisserie and also serving fabulous salads. I had the best ever and then blew all my healthy intentions on a slice of treacle tart. What the heck!

Halloween gets more bonkers by the year and this one took over a weekend. I started at Shepherd's Bush Pavilion. The hot ticket in town as usual was the Browns Focus party together with Henry Holland. The massive venue was spectacularly macabre with installations from 20 Hoxton Square, Zoom at Projects and Paradise Row. A hundred glowing pumpkins lit the way as guests took the dress code "Ends of your imagination" literally, the trend very Hammer Grotesque.

The following day (Halloween) at Stanstead Airport on route for Ibiza (another party) I spotted at least six brides of Dracula and I knew which flight they'd be on. In Ibiza the trend was witchcraft and quite sinister. I left the party still in full swing at dawn, returning to my house - one of the oldest on the Island and reputed to be haunted - as a heavy mist covered the hills, and with the start of the hunting season I could hear the Ibizan hounds howling eerily resembling the Baskervilles. I completely freaked out and couldn't get into the house fast enough.

Juicy Gossip

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:11:43 +0100

Gela Nash-Taylor and Pamela Skaist-Levy should be congratulated on their new store on Bruton Street - and the launch party was sensational.

Union Jacks and balloons flying from the windows were impressive. Years ago the building was occupied by Norman Hartnell and still retains its elegance and glamour. The girls have given it the Juicy Couture look and it's great fun. Gorgeous young men offered exotic cocktails and easy to manage food although I did pass on the vodka jelly.

The launch party for Acne Paper 9 appropriately held at Christ Church Spitalfields, had chosen spirituality as the theme for their first issue dedicated to Art. It's a beautiful and intelligent magazine. A fab jazz singer sang from the balcony and "Three Wise Men" presided over the eclectic guests making sure everyone behaved!

A Weekend In Paris

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:02:53 +0100

Wondering around Bonne Marché on the 3rd floor, I stumbled upon an exhibition of films and Polaroid's by the legendary Guy Bourdin. No one else was there and the massive concave screen seemed to envelop me into his world of beautiful images. An exhibition not to be missed.

At Alexander McQueen, huge cameras looking like praying mantises glided in unison with the models. McQueen's futuristic woman is quite creepy in a Dr Who kinda way, but the clothes in marbleised silks and tulle - worn with hoof like boots - looked ravishing.

Another must is Madeleine Vionnet at Musée des Arts Décoratifs; her designs the inspiration for many a designer. The 'robes du Soir', of the Thirties could be worn today. A black and white floor length cape made for Erté, a killer. Next door, the Galerie des Bijoux is pretty sensational too.

A torrent of rain, thunder and lightning didn't put any of us off waiting to get into John Galliano's show. In spite of being soaked, we sat and waited to be mesmerised. Imagine a movie star making her come back after the Screen Writer's Guild strike and you have the inspiration. Printed tea-dresses, delicate dresses layered over embroidered jersey T-shirts, polka dot skirts, lace blouses, heaven shoes and hats. Delicious!

The crush to get backstage was ridiculous and I was sure my ribs would crack or worse I'd loose a sleeve. It was worth the wait and later I discovered tiny pearl buttons, feathers, the odd hair extension and a ribbon had caught in the hem of my coat as I'd swept across the dressing room floor. Souvenirs of PFW; they'll go straight into the dome at the shop.

Paris Fashion Week

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:56:59 +0100

For practical reasons I no longer travel on Eurostar in my "show clothes"; heels too high and I end up ripping my hems. So, before Dior, I surreptitiously slid into a hotel close to the Tuilleries and changed in the loo. John Galliano attributed his show to Film Noir with the models playing the bad girls à la Bacall and Hayworth; sashaying down the catwalk in glamorous trench coats and then sensual flowing evening dresses with the illusion of underwear. Heaven. Galliano himself appeared for his bow through a vision of dry-ice as the good guy in Bogey trench, Stephen Jones trilby and rapturous applause.

Junya Watanabe's show is always a hot ticket and worth the 9.30am start. Black and white skinny trousers, corresponding shoes and must-have jackets - all worn with amazing sculptured headdresses - were a beautiful start to the day.

Naomi Campbell opened and closed Chapurin's show at the Carrousel and was given standing ovation. Clear cut silhouettes, asymmetric dresses an abundance of drapes and transparent corsets trimmed with lace represented the theme of the Nymph. Very beautiful. I did feel a little guilty as I joined a bunch of girls for the naughty tea at the historic Angelina's before heading back to Eurostar for London.

Time For Tea

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0100

To celebrate the end of LFW I threw a tea party at the shop. The entire spread, from the delicate cucumber sandwiches to the special blends of tea, came from Cocomaya in Connaught Street. We were blessed with fantastic weather and the table was dragged outside. I figured the council wouldn't be able to resist a slice of sticky toffee pudding cake. The star at the table was Wiggles (a dachshund) who after announcing her pregnancy, had to be restrained from diving into the brandy snaps. Her owner Judith Watt - celebrating the success of her book Dogs in Vogue - apologised for Wiggles' appalling table manners, putting it down to her cravings!

On my way to Hix's for a birthday party, crossed Regent's Street as the annual Regent Street Festival closed. Amongst the mountain of beer cans, bottles and plastic cups loomed a huge Ferris wheel which had been the backdrop for Madness. Mark Hix's new restaurant in Brewer Street is really cool, great bar area and obviously fantastic food. A couple of hours later returning to my car the Ferris wheel had gone and Regent Street was running normally again. Shame.

Always a bit of a drama getting to the theatre from my shop for 7pm but this drama at The Duke of York's was well worth it. Opening night of Andrew Bovell's play Speaking in Tongues was packed and with actors like Lucy Cohu, John Simm, Kerry Fox and Ian Hart. It's hardly surprising. Fab production.

At the Raindance Film Festival saw a screening of You Won't Miss Me, a film by Russo Young. Beautifully shot and fantastic music by Will Bates.

London Fashion Week

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:29:22 +0100

10.30am and the fashion pack teetered nervously across the cobbled courtyard at Somerset House for the opening of LFW. Nibbling marmite and cheese fingers and sipping Champagne, we praised Michael Howells's tableau of giant black and white hatboxes and toasted Headonism, curated by Stephen Jones and featuring four emerging London milliners, Soren Back, Little Shilpa, Noel Stuart and Piers Atkinson. Models glided between the hatboxes showing off their stunning creations and Fashion Week was launched. Between shop appointments, escaped to Beach Babylon up the road for Saro's collection. Fab!

Nearly missed Antonio Berardi's show. Just as I was entering St. Marks Church Mayfair, recognising my car, Camilla Morton called to tell me I was about to be towed away and to leg it over. How I didn't break my ankle in six inch heels I don't know. Got there in the nick of time - I owe that girl a huge cocktail. We were rewarded with an exquisite show. Nude underwear embellished with crystals, panniers, kimono style jackets and pleated skirts - nude shoes with colour co-ordinated heels and of course his signature sharp tailoring. All so deliciously seductive.

At Christopher Kane's show it wasn't Anna Wintour or even Donatella Versace but the arrival of Joan Collins that the press and audience went mad for. She really is quite amazing and when we'd all calmed down, the show began. Variations of sweet gingham dresses with an outrageous sexy twist and delicate dresses with panels of beading were a sheer delight, the audience went mad.

So many parties and events going on all over town, it's impossible to make them all. Started off at the Natural History Museum. Lorenzo Agius and The National Magazine Company hosted a party showing 30 iconic photographs. The star taking centre stage of course was the dinosaur - but the photographs looked fantastic in the setting and I was sorry not to stay longer.

The Saatchi Gallery played host to Pringle of Scotland. Guests were shown a beautifully shot film directed by Ryan McGinley with Tilda Swinton, then the show itself, dispelling any pre-conceived ideas you had about Pringle. The creative director Clare Waight-Keller has turned it around; silk gowns with intricate ruffle detail, cut-out backs and some great chunky knitwear - all very edgy. The heat in the gallery was pretty fierce and I was really worried that my sequin jacket was going to melt, Thirties sequins are made from gelatine! How embarrassing would that have been with Anna Wintour sitting just two seats away?!

Then dinner; very elegant with amazing food by Urban Caprice, great to get a chance to sit and have a good gossip. It was midnight when I left and frankly didn't think I'd make it over to Christopher's after party. Sometimes you just have to be a bit sensible but I hear it rocked.

Erdem's show held at Queen Elizabeth Hall took everyone's breath away. A live percussion band played, putting us in a gentle mood. His collection is just heaven; appliquéd flowers and embroidery and his signature prints are beyond amazing. The thing about Erdem is that he understands how to make women feel beautiful. I wore a silk skirt and top from his last collection and even at that hour of the morning, felt fabulous. Get over to Browns, buy into a bit of Erdem and feel amazing.

A dash over to One Whitehall Place for Roksanda Ilincic. This venue is so very grand and appropriately, half the audience were shimmering. Gone are the days when sequins were worn after dark! The show was glorious and featured an incredible feathered headdress by Noel Stuart, loving the quirky feathered shoes.

Vicki Beamon and Valery Demure held their after party at Green Fingernail, a fabulous dive in a Soho basement. Round the corner at Kettners, Erdem was in full swing celebrating his success. The Burberry party was easy to find as the entire street was lit up and the music so loud you could hear it across the river. The fashion pack celebrated the end of womenswear and partied till dawn.

Fashion's Night Out

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:33:35 +0100

The Gallery Restaurant at Selfridges was packed with guests celebrating the launch of Tom Parker Bowles book, Full English; a journey through the British and their eating habits.

On my way, I'd walked through the Food Hall and - starving - stocked up, arriving at the party with my bag reeking of garlic and dripping olive oil. The book is great and I'm definitely going to have a go at baking Winnie's Eccles cakes for my next tea.

Fashion's Night Out was Anna Wintour's inspired brainwave; the biggest shopping event ever. Getting thirteen cities across the world to open their stores, some as late as midnight, was genius. Holding events with celebrity guests, fantastic discounts, cocktails and unlimited fun; London was just one big party.

I started off at Browns, guaranteed glamour - and it was. Sipping Bellini's and working through the gorgeous rails of clothes with favourite designers Antonio Berardi and Roksanda was pretty cool.

Then wandered down Bond Street, where every store and boutique was throwing a party, the street rocked! Ended up at Dover Street, rammed with revellers and shoppers, then practically fell onto Stephen Jones' lap as I swooned over a to-die-for cocktail hat.

A limited edition Vogue T-Shirt, designed by Lucinda Chambers, was selling out everywhere - the profits going to Crisis, a charity for the homeless. Considering that the shop doorways is where a lot of the homeless sleep it seemed fitting.

Off to Ibiza for the weekend to re-charge my batteries and get ready before Fashion Week. Hurray!

Daphne's Fragrance

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:22:47 +0100

Gossiping and catching up after the summer break was like the beginning of term for fashionistas, as we gathered at Dover Street to celebrate the launch of Daphne Guinness's scent.

Virginia with Daphne Guinness

A collaboration with Comme des Garcons, 'Daphne' is a sexy, sultry smell made for a goddess.

Christopher Kane and Anouck Lepere

Sipping margaritas whilst watching Daphne's beautifully shot film Mnemosyne (the Greek goddess of memory), for a moment we were transported into her magical world.

Blackpool Illumination

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 18:39:50 +0100

A wedding in Blackpool on bank holiday weekend sounds like a shriek - and would have been, if there hadn't been a hurricane blowing. Typical!

Checked into the Imperial, a large old fashioned hotel, thinking it would be quite grand. Probably was a century ago but now a bit too faded, even for me.

On opening the door to my room, the wind howled through the ill-fitting windows blowing my chiffon dress off its hanger and finally landing on top of the centre light. I had to call room service to retrieve it. My mistake for insisting on a sea view.

Bit disappointing as the Blackpool Lights weren't on and the Helter Skelter had packed up, but the kitsch shops, piers and arcades were brilliant, as were the fish and chips. I'm sure that when the sun shines it's a fun place to visit, the wedding was divine and a good time was had by all.

Top of the list for every magazine addict is The September Issue, a behind the scenes look at the 2007 September edition of Anna Wintour's US Vogue. It weighed nearly five pounds and was the single largest issue of a magazine ever published.

It's a riveting documentary directed by R. J. Cutler and marks the end of an era before budgets were slashed. The screening took place at Soho Hotel, the most glamorous cinema I've ever sat in; huge Alice in Wonderland armchairs in hide, sipping white wine, so very Vogue.

La Cage Aux Folles

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:45:47 +0100

A man by the name of Paul has taken up residence on the porch of the shop. He doesn't quite pull off the look of security guard but his dress is eccentric which I like; he could have walked straight out of a Galliano show. He calls me "The Countess" which is cool, but then there are days when the alcohol gets the better of him and he's loud and troublesome. Hopefully by the end of the month he'll be swept away with the Carnival and we can get back to normal. Some days I have a shop to run!
Went to see La Cage Aux Folles with Charlie and James Long at the Playhouse Theatre. It's an amazing production, the dancers outrageous and brilliant, the costumes all feathers and sequins. We loved it. But even better was going back to James's studio and getting a sneak at his latest collection, can't believe Fashion Week is only 3 weeks away!

Get A Head(ache)

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:22:20 +0100

London during August, like most cities, is operating at half speed and is a good time to shop. My best hit was at Liza Bruce in Knightsbridge. On walking in, one is immediately transported into the palaces of Morocco and Jaipur. The silk kaftans, hand embroidered pieces and exquisite jewels are irresistible. There's a belt that is really bugging me which I didn't get and I think I have to go back for!

Woke up with a headache, stupidly went to the shop and then the dreaded migraine kicked in. Ignoring the doorbell and phone I grabbed a lace mourning vale and wrapped it around my eyes. Never one to play down a drama managed to make it downstairs and collapse Camille-style on the bed.

Recently bought a bottle of lavender water from Summerill and Bishop next door and that sprayed on the pillows saved me. As any fellow migraine suffer will know nothing kills the pain and you just have to go with the dreaded flow.

Now back in the real world, well the Clarendon Cross world, and raring to go.

Pop To The Rock

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:38:14 +0100

Quick trip to Ibiza.

Flying Ryanair with just my "one piece" of hand luggage which consisted of; a French enamel spoon rack in matching slop pale, four packets of Bassett's Liquorice Allsorts (for my mother), and my espadrilles.

Obviously I got pulled over by security, but after a bit of explaining they completely understood that the items might be an essential part of life in a finca.

Went to my rock, only to find that the dirt track has been resurfaced and is now very accessible. When I arrived, the beach was packed and police were making arrests after an illegal rave had taken place.

Didn't know quite what to do, but in an hour the place was deserted and I had my rock to myself. I went back the following day and it was completely deserted, unthinkable especially in August.

Saturday early evening, I went to the Hippy Market at Las Dalias. Still a great place to find goodies and it's where all the boutiques in Ibiza town stock up.

Went to an exhibition in the gardens of Galeria Can Daifain Santa Gertrudis; very bohemian crowd, typical Ibiza set.

In spite of all the places I checked out I have to say the best beach wraps and bikinis are actually at the airport.

Suits You

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:36:37 +0100

Somerset House - the spectacular neo-classical building - is to be the residency for London Fashion Week in September and for the next month Esquire has invited eighteen leading fashion designers to work with an artist and create a one-off man's suit.

The exhibition Esquire's Singular Suit included: a corduroy suit printed with graphics from Paul Smith and the artist Richard Woods; a suit made from oil-painted canvas that Louis Vuitton and Christian Schoeler had created (extraordinary); and the dinner suit accessorised with a huge netted ruff from John Galliano with a twenty-foot collage from Zanna - amazing.

It felt like the last party of the Summer Season as all anyone could talk about was the weather and getting away from it.

Hear The World

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 16:43:29 +0100

Bryan Adams, rock star and renowned photographer, launched his Hear the World exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery.

Featuring 21 portraits of musicians cupping their ears, proceeds from the sales will go to the foundation which improves the quality of life for people with hearing loss.

The gallery was packed with guests admiring the amazing pictures - it looked as though it was going to be a sell out. Well done Bryan for raising awareness for such a worthwhile cause.

Serpentine Time

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:23:13 +0100

My lovely friend Camilla Morton took me to Hospital for a screening of Coco Before Chanel (there was a moment of panic on the cab driver's face when we gave him the address). The film is a must for fashionistas; it is lavish, sumptuous and very moving. Audrey Tautou as young Chanel is brilliant. After couture what could be more perfect?

Met my partner in crime, Judith Watt, in the car park. We finished dressing up - as it's impossible to drive in sequins and tulle; far too fragile. My dress had survived the Thirties, the least I can do is show it a little respect. It could get chilly later so dived into the back of the car and found a lace underskirt and coat. All layered up and ready to party we marched to the Gallery.

The Summer Party at the Serpentine is one of the great parties of the London season. Sponsored by Canvas TV, a new global television channel for the arts to be launched in 2010, this year the Pavilion is designed by the Japanese architect Kazuyo Sejima and Rye Nishizawa of Sanaa. It was not just perfect for the party but a vision in architecture; its reflective aluminium canopy, sitting on tall pillars, winding it's way through the trees (some with tiny purple bulbs) in an ethereal way, embracing the lights. Apparently when it rains it's even more amazing, thankfully for the party it didn't.

The beautiful people (and I mean beautiful), glided through the pillars, drinking cocktails with sweet names like: English Rose, Apple Haze or Ruby Rhubarb - but believe me they were lethal. I've never grasped the art of a standing supper so to avoid sending my outfit to the dry cleaners I settled for the easy to manage Virgin Mary sorbet.

As night fell it did get quite cold, but the party people danced and danced, until the lights dimmed and it was time to move on. As Judith and I walked back to our cars swinging our shoes, we noticed some revellers soaking their aching feet. This year's party was one of the Serpentine's best.

Front Row View

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:22:42 +0100

A day trip to the Grand Salon of Dior in Paris for Haute Couture can't be bad. A long silk gown, bit impractical for Eurostar until I managed to roll it under a ribbon pulled from my heels bag. Lunch at L'Avenue and a chance to watch the limos pulling up at Dior, then across the road for the show.

Inspired by the photographs of Christian Dior with his favourite mannequins, the models glided from room to room in creations bought back to life by John Galliano with his usual magical flair and twist. Burnt orange, fuchsia pink, yellow and green sculptured creations worked with Fifties roll-ons, bras, suspenders and stockings. The shoes amazing with straps of suspenders, elegant hats by Stephen Jones and with Pat McGrath's flawless make-up. J'Adore!

Perfect Pop

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:25:36 +0100

Two pop legends, Brian Wilson and Peter Blake, hosted an evening at a private members club to launch That Lucky Old Sun; a collaboration of their art and music presented in a beautiful handcrafted box. Peter Blake's prints, quirky and fun as ever, were on display - my favourite; Mexican Girl.

Brian Wilson played a set, opening with California Girls and closing with Surfin' USA. The audience went mad. How appropriate when London is sizzling, we could have been on Venice Beach. I felt privileged to have been part of such an historic evening.

Can Koons

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:55:36 +0100

A beautiful balmy evening was perfect to wander through Kensington Gardens to the Serpentine gallery for the opening of Jeff Koons' Popeye Series. It's his first major exhibition here and the queue to get in was massive.

Once in, with a much needed glass of wine in hand, spent another half an hour queuing to get into the gallery itself; the air-conditioned space a welcome relief.

Popeye was conceived during the Great Depression in 1929 so it's a fitting time to rediscover and explore him. Paintings and sculptures with surreal combinations of everyday objects and cartoon imagery - the exhibition is a delight.

Two hours later, when I left, people were still queuing to get in.

Oohh La La

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:40:59 +0100

Arrived in Paris as the city woke up to the devastating news that Michael Jackson, the musical genius, had died. His music was everywhere blasting from shops, cars, cafés and in the Tuileries gardens groups of kids were moon-walking.

The invitation to John Galliano Homme was a series of beautiful postcards and the show predictably was miles away, but no one cares because it's part of the adventure. This time it was held at an abandoned pre-war swimming baths completely covered with graffiti - the runway the length of the empty pool.

The models stomped down a metal staircase in fabulous creations, Napoleon meets Laurence of Arabia meets Wilhelm von Gloeden. Flowing shirts slung around the hips, layers of belts, military silhouettes and a chiffon evening coat with jet-black embroidery - all to die for.

Spent Saturday doing the usual rounds Merci, Colette, lunch at Costes and couldn't resist going into their newly opened florist; the prettiest I've ever seen. The space was full of roses in every shade of pink and lilac with petals strewn across the floor, utterly romantic.

Musée des Arts Décoratifs is staging a retrospective of Madeleine Vionnet's work. The exhibition is a fashion must. Before checking out of L'Hotel I popped into L'ecole National to look at Fables and Fragments, another interesting exhibition, there's a piece by Marion Urfila entirely made from grass which is very beautiful.

Arrived back at the shop early evening after a freak storm to find the basement resembling Glastonbury, oh well, back in the real world with bucket and mop.

Bates' Race

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:57:40 +0100

Who better to have as your host for Ladies Day at Ascot than, the maestro of milliners himself, Stephen Jones?

The Royal Enclosure states that a hat or substantial fascinator must be worn, no bare midriffs or miniskirts and halter neck and dress straps; at least one inch. The rebellious side makes me almost want to break the rules but think perhaps my midriff is best kept under wraps - and anyway wouldn't want to upset the Palace. With my amazing Stephen Jones hat, Thirties bias-cut chiffon dress and Galliano jacket, there was no way I wouldn't get into the Royal Enclosure.

Guests for luncheon had to be seated at 11.15, the pre-starter (amuse-bouche) at 11.30, between courses there were fashion shows from Luella, Gieves & Hawkes, Vivienne Westwood and of course Stephen Jones. At 2pm we rushed to the balcony as Her Majesty, in powder blue with matching hat, and the Royal procession arrived - and then for the serious stuff.

Not very clued-in to horse racing and managed to back the loser each time until I was given a "hot tip" for the prestigious Gold Cup and picked the winner.

In all I think I was £5 up on the day but Ascot, and especially Ladies Day, is about the girls getting dressed up. My favourite was a group who had dressed as Quality Street chocolates - and the men in morning coats and top hats looked so elegant.

I booked a Green Tomato eco-friendly car to take me there and back - I highly recommend the service - it's reliable, no smelly Christmas tree hanging over the dash board and the drivers are quiet and polite, it's the way forward.

Manhattans in Manhattan

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:27:58 +0100

An impromptu trip to New York, how fab!

Going to miss the Lulu Guinness 20th anniversary and launch of her Scholarship at London College of Fashion (see who did make it to the party here), but I know it will be great fun and a huge success.

Arrived late Saturday evening and went straight to Public; a cool restaurant on Elizabeth Street. They do a great Manhattan.

Beautiful sunny Sunday morning, took the train then ferry to Fire Island. It's like going back in time, no roads, no cars, no boutiques, no rush, just the occasional deer. Long wide beaches of white sand, no bars and no sun loungers; heaven.

Only means of transport is by bicycle or by hopping on a boat to the next bay. Stayed for a couple of days until the weather broke and then went back to Brooklyn for the start of "Music and Art" a four day festival. It's a bit like Edinburgh with every nook and cranny rocking, performing and partying.

Went to Jack Pelican where Sarah Bereza is exhibiting. I volunteered to take one of her smaller paintings back with me and deliver it to the Saatchi Gallery. Always like a challenge!

Over at Bushwick, Roberta's an organic pizzeria is where everyone seems to hang. The owner Chris grows all the veg in the back garden and it's a great place to people watch.

Spent my last night at Monkey Bar (read Boo's review here), Chris Corbin and Jeremy King's latest venture. The bar still has the original Twenties fittings and, of course, the monkeys. The restaurant has had a major makeover and predictably was packed and fabulous.

Back to Williamsburg to the Lovin' Cup - right now probably the hottest bar in town.

The Royal Academy Exhibition

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 18:06:49 +0100

The theme for this year's Royal Academy Summer Exhibition is Making Space and indeed every conceivable space was covered with art by amateur and distinguished members of the Academy.

The summer party was glamorous as ever; girls in heels that have never been so high teetered precariously across the cobbled courtyard - the reward a glass of bubbly and plenty of delicious canapés.

There seemed to be more art there than ever. A stunning silver sculpture by Damien Hirst Saint Bartholomew Exquisite Pain maybe a bit too reminiscent of Gunther Von Hagen's Bodyworlds but nevertheless, magnificent.

A crowd gathered to admire a large frame displaying individual glasses of sundaes with silver spoons; in fact it was our dessert. Beth Ditto (looking amazing) performed outside, her eye make-up an art installation in itself.

DID YOU SEE? What other beautiful girls attempted the cobbles at the RA Exhibition...

Suffer For Your Art

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:55:16 +0100

Those who Suffer Love, Tracey Emin's new exhibition at White Cube Mason's Yard, is her first for four years in London and the opening party was packed with her many admirers and fans.

It's essentially a drawing show but still includes animation, photography, sculpture and large embroidered blankets with her life's journey stitched in.

The show is a personal diary and her honesty is shocking, moving and sometimes painful. The delicate neon signs of her poetry are beautiful - it's a great space.

Having feasted on the art everyone sat around in the courtyard drinking from bottles of beer and getting smashed.

So very Tracey.

Chelsea Bag Show

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:16:55 +0100

Arrived at Chelsea Flower Show and there, looming over the entrance six metres tall, was the official creative for 2009 designed by Susannah Hunter - my lovely Susannah.

The purple anemone was everywhere; on carrier bags, banners and on the merchandise. I managed to grab a load of postcards and notebooks but not enough.

Then there were the real flowers, so incredibly perfect and immaculate; not a bug in sight. Think they were hanging out in my garden.

There is so much to get round at Chelsea and I haven't got acclimatised to crowds after the quiet of my rock last week (that's Ibiza - read the blog here). The courtyard garden was my favourite, perhaps because it was more rural and realistic.

And what did I come away with? A Susannah Hunter handbag of course.

My Eivissan Quest

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 17:40:22 +0100

Saturday afternoon, I'm skiving off to Ibiza flying Ryanair from Stansted - a pain to get to but it's cheap and direct. Here's the catch, after one hour 10 minutes: "This is your captain speaking." He announces that due to a mechanical fault the plane is turning back to Stansted, the radar's packed up.

Listen, I've done this journey enough times, I could steer it myself - although the Pyrenees could be a problem for Health & Safety.....

So we land back at Stansted and the next drama is that two guys (thankfully) were caught smoking as we re-fuelled - two police officers came on board, arrested them and carted them off.

Finally we got to Ibiza six hours later. Arriving at the house to the smell of pine trees, the silence and a million stars falling out of the sky, it was still worth it. Now is the best time to come, no tourists, no traffic and my rock was deserted.

Definitely an understood beach code going on here: the morning set dressed Ibiza-style minimalist, very low-key, some doing yoga, then 2pm the workers taking a lunch break. 4pm, the cool crowd, who have just got up, arrive in jewelled harem pants and accessories and stay till sundown - bliss.

Flying back after five days, Ryanair must have rallied; brand new plane and touched down at Stansted 15 minutes early.

Cooking with Virginia

Wed, 27 May 2009 17:40:12 +0100

Salvatore Ferragamo gave a launch for The Cooking Recipes selected by Prince Don Paolo Borghese, sounds pretty grand and it is. The book contains 19th Century recipes chosen for his guests.

It's an impressive book, beautifully illustrated, and I was thrilled to be given a copy. There is one snag; the book is written in Italian, so it may be a while before I cook one of the dishes, but I'll certainly have a go.

Hogan Hoedown

Wed, 27 May 2009 17:34:11 +0100

Katie Grand, Pixie Geldof and Leigh Lezark hosted a cocktail party at Hogan in Sloane Street with a portion of sales going to benefit Best Buddies (read more about the party here). Any store in Sloane Street I'm drawn to like a magnet, as was any fashionista in town; Katie looked fab decked out in Alaia.

Got a chance to tell Pixie that I used to baby-sit her mother Paula. As a special treat she loved sitting on the top deck of the No 12 bus with a bag of chips and looking at the shop windows.

Fun As Folk

Mon, 11 May 2009 18:50:41 +0100

The last time I had a night out with James Long it took me a week to get over it, so this evening we're taking it gently. Meeting at Burlington Gardens for Haunch of Venison's opening of Thomas Joshua Cooper we were taken aback by his work. The exhibition, True, charts a two year journey to the Polar Regions, travelling to some of the most isolated locations across the globe, taking images with his 19th Century Agfa camera. The gallery was packed with guests clutching bottles of beer, eager to look at the dramatic and lonely pictures.

Impressed and humbled it was time to move on to The English Folk Dance and Song Society for a fundraising evening in aid of the Museum of British Folklore Tour. Resembling an old fashioned garden fete, stalls served plates of freshly cut ham and asparagus. As guests arrived garlands of daffodils and ivy were placed on their heads.

Suitably adorned - and with the help of a few glasses of Champagne - we soon got into the swing of things. Morris Dancers put on a fantastic display slapping their thighs and wielding sticks. I was slightly disappointed that there wasn't a Maypole, as years ago I used to be quite good, however with the amount of Champagne consumed it could have all gone horribly wrong. At dawn the host Simon Costin headed off in his painted wagon to tour the country.

Not sure how my garland got into the garden but in the morning I found Daniel (my Tortoise), wandering across the lawn with it wrapped around him.

Party To Arty

Mon, 11 May 2009 18:43:09 +0100

A vodka launch seems like a good idea, especially when it's on Mount Street, my favourite place to shop. Belvedere Black Raspberry Vodka sounds so chic. With Pam Hogg DJing and endless trays of tempting cocktails it was going to be quite a party, but I had to keep my head clear as I was on route to the Richard Young Gallery.

Warholesque features eight artists' take on photographs taken by Richard Young; including Sir Peter Blake, Gavin Turk and Kay Harwood. It was nice to see Richard the other side of the camera and hosting a spectacular party with his beautiful wife Susan. The exhibition is amazing and the gallery is so worth a visit but be careful when you go downstairs as I nearly lost half of my silk coat when someone behind me stepped on it whilst I carried on, still we had a good laugh.

Exterminate! Exterminate!

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Took the day off and caught the 8am train to Birmingham. I normally use Eurostar, so on arrival I expected to be in Paris. Even more confusing was being met at the NEC by 20 Storm Troopers. It could have been the menswear shows!

I was a guest at The Memorabilia Exhibition with my Dr. Who hat on, as they say (having appeared in the series as a character called Dyoni in the Sixties). It's a well known fact that Stephen Jones took some inspiration from the Daleks and look where that got him. Who knows what the dress code is for going in and out of a Tardis, lace and lamé is probably a good bet.

I spent the day with characters from Star Wars, Star Trek, The Carry On films and of course Dr. Who. I was chased by a Dalek and received a proposal of marriage on stage during a question and answer debate. The whole event could have gone to my head had it not been for the fact that my heel broke coming off stage and I had to rather unceremoniously limp back to London.

Some Bookish Indulgence

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 17:07:42 +0100

Stephanie Theobald held the launch of her latest novel A Partial Indulgence at Artesian, The Langham. She looked amazing in an incredibly sexy dress by Giles Deacon and was understandably grinning from ear to ear. The bar was packed with fascinating people drinking Champagne, served in beautiful tall flutes, and nibbling on delicious canapés. I loved the bar, designed by David Collins; glamorous with good lighting and it's easy to park nearby. I left carrying the book. I couldn't wait to start and now I can't put it down.

Back To Reality

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:16:00 +0100

The venue was quite small considering the number of people who clambered to see Antonio Berardi's show. The tall distressed gothic hall was a fabulous location, but had such a narrow catwalk that the front row was advised to put their bags on their laps and un-cross their legs (health & safety!).

The models, in seductive matt sequin dresses and mint fox fur jackets embellished with Swarovski crystals on the back, sashayed effortlessly in high-heeled thigh-high boots. The sophisticated line-up of dresses were beautifully structured with curved shoulders - a geometric black and white bias dress was a red carpet show stopper - and the fluorescent matte lipstick was a novel touch. Antonio seemed overwhelmed when it was all over, as practically the entire audience rushed backstage to congratulate him.

Between shows we hung out at Merci; a high end lifestyle store opened by the owners of Bonpoint on the strength of their success with the children's shop. The profits go to a children's charity, which made us feel little less guilty about shopping.

The hard-edged sports stadium at Bercy was the location for Alexander McQueen. The centrepiece was an enormous pile of trash which could have been an art installation at Tate Modern. Models circled it wearing pieces rescued from a recycling tip and brilliantly styled into outrageous hats by Philip Treacy. The clothes were as elaborate as ever, exciting and quite thrilling.

The music at John Galliano is always amazing and as the lights dimmed and we bobbed to Roxanne, a lazer of eau de nil light shone down the mile long catwalk. The models appeared as though through a tunnel of dreams, a sprinkle of fake snow making it even more ethereal, in outfits so beautiful they took your breath away. The finale pieces evoked a fragile but very seductive Miss Haversham and made you want to weep. In contrast afterwards backstage a riotous party was going on with everything to celebrate and a chance to quickly admire close up some of the incredible headdresses by Stephen Jones. I don't think I've ever seen a show that moved me so much.

Can't say I'm looking forward to going back to the real world tomorrow but perhaps the Paris sparkle will linger on.

Feminine Meets Dramatic

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:33:54 +0100

Junya Watanabe's show was fabulously dramatic. The models with jet black hair piled high (Marie Antoinette style), glided under a spotlight to a heartrending Tosca soundtrack and showed variations of puffa coats, dresses and capes in black and maroon - and although completely covered looked so sexy.

In contrast the Comme des Garçons offering was light and girly; red and white pieces smothered in baby ribbon bows. From there we went on to a quick lunch at Costes - to eye up the fashion scene - and I note that just about every woman there was wearing fur (and not necessarily antique).

Hairy Encounter

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:27:22 +0100

On the Eurostar I found myself next to my favourite bag lady Susannah Hunter. Had a quick nosy through her latest collection and without any hesitation ordered the apple green travel bag. No self discipline whatsoever in making cut backs.

Straight to L'Hotel, I slipped on my lame´coat and walked to the Jardin des Tuileries for Dior. In homage to Christian Dior the show tent was drenched in his favourite perfume, lily of the valley, and the models made their entrances through a huge gilded fretwork of flowers. A masterful collection, as we expect from John Galliano, elegant Dior grey pinstriped suits, brocade jackets, exotic printed chiffon - and silk dresses in vibrant colours sweeping the floor, dripping in coloured stones and silver ethnic jewels. Exquisite and also very wearable.

Leaving the show I was set upon by a crowd I thought were after my Poiret coat. Having been showered with sand - and shouted at - I realised they were anti-fur demonstrators intent on ruining the musquash collar on my Twenties coat. Musquash, by the way, is a rodent.

I legged it out of the park and fell into the safety of Colette - crammed with fashionistas dripping in fur - to calm my nerves. Popped into Galliano and nearly died over a pair of shoes the same price as my outstanding gas bill; a fortune. It's hard to know which takes priority, but we know what fashionistas would do.

Bumped into Luisa Beccaria at the Ritz and she showed me her beautiful collection, before we fell into the bar where she held court.

Fashion Marathon

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:30:53 +0100

Ossie Clarke, in the BFC tent, was the perfect opener for what proposes to be a long day. The show was reminiscent of "Swinging London", brilliantly styled by Cathy Kasterine. Just time to grab a coffee, fight for a cab and rush to Covent Garden for Luella.

Needn't have bothered with coffee, Luella had thoughtfully lain on a tea trolley. Then with Bobby Gillespie doing the music and Katy England styling, Luella put on a show that lifted us into a world of rock 'n' roll with Ladies of the Night. We loved it.

After the show we trooped out crocodile fashion and walked to the Embankment Galleries at Somerset House for Erdem. A Jazz quartet played romantic Parisienne music, the perfect accompaniment to a show that blew us away. His signature silks, matching boots, appliqué lace, embroidered tights and ruffles were just gorgeous - and all so wearable. Erdem we love you.

Julien Macdonald, who epitomises the world of glamour, held his show at Banqueting House - which he transformed into an elegant salon. Waiters handed out glasses of Champagne whilst we longed for the sexy chunky sweaters and dreamed of being a mermaid in his fantastic evening gowns. The Andrew Logan style of mirror sequined sleeve will prove so convenient for a make-up check.

Had planned on going to the National Gallery but the feet were beginning to cry and didn't think I could make it across Trafalgar Square - so collapsed into Café Nero kicked off the heels and re-charged.

Fully restored couldn't wait to see Roksanda Ilincic's collection at Gladstone Library, Whitehall. The huge staircase led us to the book-lined hall and to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Barbie we were given a Barbie chocolate and, heaven, a real Barbie doll on our seats. Hats by Noel and dramatic jewellery from Maria Francesca Pepe accessorised the sophisticated collection. Black lace over leather, panniers and great shoulders, beautiful evening gowns and of course lots of vibrant Barbie pink.

Maria Grachvogel ran continuous shows during the afternoon with a salon-style presentation at The Hospital Club. Her sculptured silhouette is always flattering and graceful, the abstract hand-painted prints were stunning, but I was riveted by the aquamarine eyebrows on the models. After a rapturous applause the entire backdrop alarmingly collapsed but the models, cool as cucumbers, gracefully walked over it and exited. The show must go on!

The opening party at the V&A of Hats An Anthology, by Stephen Jones, promised to be the big one of LFW and, to be sure, it was. Dress code: Decorate your head - and absolutely everyone did. Plenty of lobster and pink Champagne - and plenty to admire. Michael Howell's design for the exhibition completely captures the spirit of Stephen and is enchanting, from the detail of the milliner's workroom, to the display of Cecil Beeton's hats from My Fair Lady. It's amazing.

Jonathan Newhouse and Alexandra Shulman hosted a dinner in honour of Stephen at San Lorenzo. I walked with Lulu Guinness to Beauchamp Place, Lulu making sure I didn't trip over my train. It is quite tricky to manoeuvre a train with a hand on hat and a bag - so need a lady's maid on these occasions.

Then what joy to find the iconic Anna Piaggi, whose bespoke hat I was wearing, was a guest at the dinner too. Everyone seems more playful under a hat; it's a look we should aspire to with our heads held high.

Show Me A Good Time

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:51:54 +0100

No matter what, a new shoe shop opening is irresistible - especially when it's Browns. The elegant interior by Caroline Burstein made you want to move in, then to be surrounded by the most amazing shoes was frankly my idea of heaven. Stylish fashionistas packed into the store for the Champagne opening, slipping into the latest "must have" killer shoes.

Then to Olympia, for Vivienne Westwood Red Label. The invitation, a boarding school report, gave me a quick stab of terror but explained the young girly show which was fun as always.

Back at Browns, the after-party held at 21 Portman Square (another favourite venue) was wild, with DJ performances from the Misshapes and Lovefoxxx.

Somehow, I still managed to do the Sunday morning thing; put a load in the washing machine, went to the Farmers Market and washed the car. Then I threw a selection of heels into the back and beetled off to Christopher Kane. His appliqué of narrow velvet ribbons on sheer organza - heaven.

Saro held his debut collection at Sketch. The entire front row were hiding behind dark glasses - maybe an indication that the night before had got the better of them. The video on the walls and sound track soon livened them up and his collection was graceful and chic.

The Aquascutum collection at the Saatchi gallery, with its strong silhouettes and signature rainwear, was a must-have for this country. Afterwards everyone rushed backstage to wish Edward Enniful a happy birthday and congratulate Pat McGrath on the gorgeous make-up.

Virginia's Valentine

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:48:08 +0100

London's all loved up and my neck of the woods has gone bonkers. Julie's is covered in pink hearts, Harper & Tom's have taken over the square with romantic displays of posies and my window is full of evocative Victorian Valentine cards. Bless!

Then we head over to Dover Street Market where Katie Grand is celebrating Valentine's Day, with the launch of her magazine Love. A large bed installed in the basement was covered in limited edition clothing, Chloe, Luella, Pam Hogg, Stella and Victoria Beckham.

Fashionistas scrambled to pick up a bargain whilst sipping pink champagne. All copies of the magazine had been nabbed by the time I got there but the wall was plastered with the pages. It looks brill, as we'd expected from Katie.

On our way back West, we drove passed Harvey Nichols. The windows are mind blowing and if we can only afford to window-shop then this is where we want to be.

At the Natural History Museum, the tents are up for LFW - Hooray! Shows/Parties/Shows! The fashionistas are coming out to play and they never disappoint.