Guest blogger and designer Saloni's blog, brought to you by Vogue.com. Fashion as it happens, reported direct from the team in Vogue House. <p>In my "weaving the perfect weekend" blog from Srinagar, I had mentioned my desire to return to Kashmir for some winter sport action. Although sadly I was stuck in the office and&nbsp;pretty pregnant, my husband seized his chance to visit Gulmarg for a weekend on the slopes.&nbsp;The mountain looked so beautiful and his experience of skiing in India so memorable, that I thought it worthwhile to share it anyway.</p><p>Gulmarg has what every experienced enthusiast is looking for: big mountain skiing (the ski-lift tops out at 4,000 metres), lots of fresh powder snow and plenty of off-piste runs.</p><p>Alongside traditional Kashmiri hospitality, this ski resort now also offers a degree of much needed luxury for those who, like me, enjoy hot water and centralised heating after a day of thigh-burning vertical drops</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2013/04/kashmiri-powder" title="Saloni Blog - A weekend on the slopes">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:94460 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2013/04/kashmiri-powder Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:00:52 +0100 <p>I had blogged about the team decamping to stunning Marrakech last October to shoot our spring/summer 2013 project. As we don't do fashion shows we have spent the last year working on exciting still and film projects with amazing photographers and directors like Ellen Von Unwerth, Ruth Hogben and David Dunan.</p><p>For our latest spring/summer collection I decided to shoot a coffee table book and take the&nbsp;collection on a visual journey to North Africa.&nbsp;It was meant be a glimpse into the life of a fictional muse - an enigmatic artist and prodigious traveller elegantly and effortlessly interacting with her surroundings.</p><p>To launch the book - <em>Nomadic Interlude</em> by David Dunan, starring Christina Kruse - we hosted an intimate dinner with Laure Heriard Dubreuil during New York Fashion Week in the Penthouse at The Standard. We had lots of fun trying to recreate the magic and mystery of Morocco during the recent NYFW snow storm. We were lucky to find a store in Soho from which to rent the Moroccan furniture and a palm tree from a generous florist to add to the charm of our event.</p><p>Pictures courtesy of BFA, Purple.fr, Vogue.fr.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2013/new-york-to-marrakech" title="Saloni blog - We took our spring/summer 2013 collection on the road">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:93756 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2013/new-york-to-marrakech Fri, 22 Feb 2013 12:18:23 +0100 <p>I have just returned from blissfully relaxing Sri Lanka. When I first visited this beautiful island a few years ago, I travelled throughout the country but this time there was no sight-seeing on the agenda.</p><p>The only two excursions of note were a visit to the Geoffrey Bawa house in a leafy Colombo suburb and a bike ride to Lunaganga near Bentota, where Bawa - Sri Lanka's best known architect - transformed an abandoned rubber estate into something resembling an Italian garden from the tropical wilderness.</p><p>A lovely few days in the charming Galle Fort ensued however the highlight of the trip was definitely the bare-foot morning jogs and walks on the spectacular empty beaches of Bentota and Habaraduwa.</p><p>A great start to the new year.&nbsp;</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2013/resplendent-island" title="A great start to the new year!">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:92999 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2013/resplendent-island Thu, 17 Jan 2013 11:52:25 +0100 <p>Following fast on the heels of our well received short film <em>Jodhpur Jackie,</em> the SALONI team decamped to stunning Marrakech to shoot another short movie and - for the first time - a coffee table book.</p><p>This project was made possible by the generosity and hospitality of the Leymarie family who opened up their striking home and beautiful Beldi Country Club to the multi-talented cast and crew that included Ruth Hogben, David Dunan, Ayami Nishimura, Bianca Tuovi, Rebecca Corbin-Murray and Christina Kruse.</p><p>Currently in post-production, I am really looking forward to sharing it with everyone because it is such a contrast to the quirky playfulness of our previous effort. It is very powerful, sensual and...atmospheric! I love,love, love it.</p><p>From there the team was off to Paris where, in-keeping with the North&nbsp;African mood, we transformed our show room into a harem. From our tent in the Marais we showcased our Spring/Summer 13 collection, which included our new range of&nbsp;footwear - a collaboration with Penelope Chilvers. The shoes are great fun!</p><p>From there, onto Frieze, where I got to hang out with Katie Hillier, Peter Pilotto and Osman, and catch up with old friends before flying back to Bombay where I had the pleasure of having dinner with the renowned artist/designer Paolo Navone,&nbsp;Sergio Silvestris and&nbsp;the Dodo team.</p><p>Dodo the Italian jeweller was in town to launch its first point of sale in India at the Le Mill concept store, for which Paola designed a captivating flower-coated display.</p><p>By the time I left the launch party the adorable animal charms were literally flying off the shelves.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/10/a-nomadic-interlude" title="Saloni Blog: Filming, Frieze and Indian adventures">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:90751 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/10/a-nomadic-interlude Mon, 29 Oct 2012 14:53:31 +0100 <p>Earlier in August we launched Jodhpur Jackie exclusively with British Vogue.</p><p>Here are some behind the scene images of the crew and various locations we shot the film at- &nbsp;Meherangh Fort, Blue City, on the lakes of Jaswant Thada and&nbsp;Clock Tower.</p><p>The crew came back to Mumbai for a party hosted by Roohi Jaikishan and Riyad Oomerbhoy&nbsp;for Ellen von Unwerth and the rest of the team.</p><p>Among the guests were noted film directors Shekhar Kapur and Karan Johar. They were joined by Bollywood stunner Nargis Fakhri&nbsp;and other Indian social and media personalities for a fun wrap party.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/09/behind-the-scenes--jodhpur-jackie" title="Behind The Scenes- Jodhpur Jackie - Exclusive snapshots of the cast and crew">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:89577 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/09/behind-the-scenes--jodhpur-jackie Thu, 06 Sep 2012 11:12:10 +0100 <p><br> <em>View of Sringagar from Pari Mahal</em></p><p>Srinagar in Kashmir is a place of striking contrasts. The town is set against serene Himalayan mountains and lake landscape but is unfortunately heavily militarised given the unrest of the last decade.</p><p><br> <em>House Boats, Dal Lake</em></p><p><br> <em>A floating masseuse</em></p><p>I have always had a soft spot for all things Kashmiri: the carpets, scarves, the artist Raqib Shaw, and kahwah - a green tea with saffron, cinnamon, cardamom honey and almonds.</p><p><br> <em>A floating vegetable market</em></p><p><br> <em>Dal Lake</em></p><p><br> <em>I made myself a lotus hat</em></p><p><br> <em>Jama Masjid</em></p><p>I have been wanting to visit for a long time so when our scarf supplier invited me to come see how the scarves are made I jumped at the chance. The wool for our scarves comes from the Changthangi goat which is indigenous to the high altitudes of the Himalayas.</p><p><br> <em>The looms where are scarves are woven</em>&nbsp;</p><p>The shawls are hand spun and woven in pretty much the same way they were when the art of weaving was introduced to Kashmir by Zain-ul-Abidin in the 15th century.</p><p>I am so glad I took the time to visit - though this trip felt too short I am hoping to be back for some winter sports in Gulmarg later this year!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/08/weaving-the-perfect-weekend" title="Saloni Blog - Weaving the Perfect Weekend - Srinagar in Kashmir">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:89010 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/08/weaving-the-perfect-weekend Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:47:32 +0100 <p>Spring this year was all about glamorous weddings, milestone birthday parties, and the Paris preview of the SALONI Pre-spring collection. One of my favourite moments was going dirndl and lederhosen shopping in Munich. I had to wear a dirndl for a dear friend's wedding in Germany where I was a bridesmaid. I love my dirndl but am now at a total loss as to when I will ever get to wear this again. Look out for some Bavarian-nights inspired looks as I try and resurrect the tablecloth skirt look!</p><p>After the wedding I had few days in London where I enjoyed a surprisingly sunny weekend of hilarious picnics with friends. This was followed by a beautiful week in Bergamo, my husband's hometown, where there was a lot of reading by the fire place and daily jogging in the chestnut forest. The picture above shows the view from the top of the hill in Citta Alta, which was part of our route.</p><p>This relaxing week was followed by a magnificent Venetian wedding and a trip to Marrakech for a friend's birthday. It was my first time quad biking and this dusty affair was much harder than I thought. Believe it or not I managed to crash into the only clay pot in the middle of the desert.</p><p>What I hadn't realised was that the pot was next to a well and if not for the pot I may have found myself crashing into the well itself.&nbsp;Finally after a month on the road I am happy to be back to Mumbai and the monsoon rains.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/07/postcards-of-spring" title="Saloni Blog - fills us in on her latest globe-trotting adventures">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:88356 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/07/postcards-of-spring Tue, 24 Jul 2012 18:03:31 +0100 <p>Over the course of the last few weeks I have been a little bit all over the place.&nbsp;The first stop was a&nbsp;weekend break in Paris at the supremely elegant&nbsp;Saut Hermès event at the Grand Palais, Paris. A true visual feast to see the world's finest horsemen and women demonstrate their brilliant skills.</p><p>Next was Hong Kong, where a few work meetings happily coincided with a visit by my friend Charlotte who was in town with her fun team for a very successful event at the beautiful On Pedder store.</p><p>Last stop was back home in Mumbai for few weeks. I have recently found my true calling…becoming a florist. I am now officially obsessed with early morning 5am visits to the Dadar flower market and, in particular, with a certain stall's mogra flowers - these fresh flowers are beautifully hand woven into bracelets with brightly-coloured threads and I can't have enough of them. It's great fun trying to find exotic flowers and bargaining for them in this chaotic market.</p><p>These trips have successfully cheered me up and prepared me for the hard work back in London at the studio!</p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos">SEE SALONI'S LATEST COLLECTION HERE</a></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/05/11/paris---hong-kong---mumbai" title="Paris - Hong Kong - Mumbai">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:86621 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/05/11/paris---hong-kong---mumbai Fri, 11 May 2012 11:52:53 +0100 <p>As most of you will have probably already figured out, I love to let my imagination run wild - I guess this is one of the real perks of the job. In February, I was lucky enough to be able to fulfil a long-standing dream - to make a movie!&nbsp;Making the movie was a true labour of love for all those involved. It was definitely the most exhausting, as well as rewarding, few days of my life.&nbsp;I cant wait for all you to see it.</p><p>The short movie called <em>Jodhpur Jackie</em> was directed by the legendary Ellen Von Unwerth and shot on location in Rajasthan. The short, which is based around the inspiration behind the SALONI autumn/winter 2012 collection, had its first private screening at a super-fun party at Le Baron during Paris Fashion Week.</p><p>Le Baron organised a&nbsp;tattoo parlour by BLACK BANDITZ from LA, Irina Lazereanu's band performed, Belvedere sponsored the drinks and it was a great celebration! Here are some fun pictures from the evening..</p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos">SEE SALONI'S LATEST COLLECTION HERE</a></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/03/20/jodhpur-jackie" title="Celebrating Jodhpur Jackie">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:85645 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/03/20/jodhpur-jackie Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:08:09 +0100 <p>Now that i am finally getting to spend more time in India, I have decided to travel as much as I can within the country to fulfil my curiousity and seek out inspiration.</p><p>For my first trip I decided to take a few days to visit some of the better known sites which I had yet to see: the beautiful temples of Kajurao and the town of Varanasi.</p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos">SEE SALONI'S LATEST COLLECTION HERE</a></p><p>Kajurao is famous primarily for its erotic temple sculptures while Varanasi is one of India's holiest sites for both Hindus and Bhuddists. I was not aware before visiting that this was where Buddha gave his first sermon after reaching enlightenment.</p><p>There is so much history and diversity in India that I hope I can stick to the plan of getting out of Bombay and exploring more of India!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/02/09/indian-enlightenment" title="Indian Enlightenment">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:84769 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/02/09/indian-enlightenment Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:54:35 +0100 <p>It was on my honeymoon a few years ago on the island of Sumba that I first heard about this magical place called Campi ya Kanzi from a very passionate author who was writing a book about eco lodges around the world. A few years later, my friend Veronica mentioned she was on the board of Campi's trust. The author and my friend were simply in love with this place but agreed that words couldn't describe it, so when it came to celebrating my big 3-0 I decided to go there.</p><p>Campi ya Kanzi is in Maasai communal land 40 kms from Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya. It was developed and is run by a most inspirational and passionate Italian couple, Luca and Antonella. It is not just a safari camp in a game reserve, it is something much more special. It's like staying a week at the bush house of friends and being looked after and involved in the Maasai community which lives around you. The nature is stunning as it lies just under the Chyulu Hills with their surprising lava floors and cloud forest. You can witness the Maasai villages and the wild animals coexisting, which is a part of the conservation project that Campi ya Kanzi has fostered.</p><p>I loved my time here and even found time to jog with a Maasai warrior who had run the New York Marathon to raise awareness for the Campi ya Kanzi conservation project. Great way to enter my 30s!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/01/17/kenyan-adventure" title="A Kenyan Adventure">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:83993 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/01/17/kenyan-adventure Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:35:20 +0100 <p>The time has finally come to move the studio into a larger space. We have decided on a great space in Ladbroke Grove. Untill the end, I had however hoped to find a space close to my favourite source of comfort food -&nbsp;the cheekily named Phat Phuc Noodle Bar.</p><p>I have now been living in London for seven years and this is probably the one place where I have eaten lunch more often than in my own home. It is located in a small courtyard just off the King's Road. Phat Phuc makes Vietnamese noodle soups that are super healthy and delicious and only the fact that we are currently based in North London stops me eating there every day.</p><p><a href="http://www.phatphucnoodlebar.com/" target="_blank">www.phatphucnoodlebar.com</a></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/12/8/yummy-comfort-food" title="Yummy Comfort Food">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:83201 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/12/8/yummy-comfort-food Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:34:36 +0100 <p><br> <em>Princess Beatrice and I</em></p><p>We showcased our spring/summer 2012 collection in the classic 1930s art-deco opulence of the RIBA Gallery at the Royal Institute of British Architects.</p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos">SEE THE ENTIRE COLLECTION HERE</a></p><p><br> <em>Charlotte Dellal</em></p><p><em><br> Kate Lanphear</em></p><p><em><br> Poppy Delevingne</em></p><p><em><br> Rebecca Corbin-Murray</em></p><p>The collection and set we created evoked the floating, evanescent world of Ukiyo-e woodblock prints and the Japonisme movement they influenced.&nbsp;The set was further brought to life through our collaboration with artists Emma Rios, Dan and the Jotta team to create life size paper foxes and paper trees.&nbsp;The collection was further enlivened by our first footwear and hat collaborations with Charlotte Olympia and Piers Atkinson. It was such a fun afternoon here are some of pictures.</p><p><br> <em>Piers Atkinson</em></p><p><br> <em>Origami paper fox by Emma Rios and the Jotta team&nbsp;</em></p><p><br> <em>India Standing and Sean</em></p><p><br> <em>Charlotte Olympia shoes</em></p><p><em><br> Fuscia Kate Sumner and Francesca Versace</em></p><p><em><br> Saloni print nails by Mik Pocock and Nailrock</em></p><p><br> <em>Getting ready for the presentation</em></p><p><em><br> Emilio de la Morena</em></p><p><em><br> Lara Bohinc</em></p><p><em><br> Me with Imran Ahmed</em></p><p><em><br> Gianluca Longo and Charlotte Dellal of Charlotte Olympia</em></p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/photo-blogs/charlotte-dellal/charlotte-dellal---day-1">SEE INSIDE CHERLOTTE DELLAL'S WARDROBE</a></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/11/15/team-spirit" title="Team Spirit">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:81868 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/11/15/team-spirit Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:22:59 +0100 <p><br> <em>Me with Ruth Chapman and Mark Fast&nbsp;</em></p><p>A true Indian summer is how I would describe this year's sunny and unseasonably warm Paris Fashion Week.</p><p><br> <em>Dominic Jones</em></p><p><br> <em>Nicholas Kirkwood</em></p><p><br> <em>Tomoko Ogura, Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos&nbsp;</em></p><p>Although we had all horribly misjudged our packing, the fact that we were there selling our spring/summer 2012 collection meant that we could just plunder the rails of samples we had brought - a real lifesaver!</p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos">SEE SALONI'S SPRING/SUMMER 2012 COLLECTION</a></p><p><br> <em>Louise Gray and Henry Holland</em></p><p><br> <em>Gloria Baume and Daniella with Osman</em></p><p>Samantha Cameron, Harold Tillman and the British Fashion Council hosted a beautiful evening at the British Ambassador's House in Paris. Here are some of my favourite pictures of the evening.</p><p><br> <em>Patrick Grant&nbsp;</em></p><p>The other photos are a motley selection of moments that I had fun capturing. My personal favourite is Natalie Joos looking fab in a Peter Pilotto dress!</p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/peter-pilotto/full-length-photos">SEE PETER PILOTTO'S LATEST COLLECTION</a></p><p><br> <em>Natalie Joos, wearing Peter Pilotto</em></p><p><br> <em>Rebecca Corbin-Murray</em></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/10/13/my-indian-summer" title="My Indian Summer">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:77306 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/10/13/my-indian-summer Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:32:01 +0100 <p><br> <em>Emma Roberts ©&nbsp;PA Photos</em></p><p>We recently received this picture of Emma Roberts wearing Saloni autumn/winter 2011-12 on the red carpet. She looked amazing, and kept it young and fresh with a little black dress. SJP was also spotted wearing the necklace during the press junket for her latest film, <em>I Don't Know How She Does It</em>.</p><p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/video?category=exclusives&amp;id=10666">WATCH OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SJP HERE</a></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/09/29/saloni-girls" title="Saloni Girls">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:76914 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/09/29/saloni-girls Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:54:33 +0100 <p>Just a few manic weeks to go now before our presentation during London Fashion Week. When the opportunity to attend a friend's combination christening and marriage blessing came up, I absolutely jumped at the chance.</p><p>The beautiful country house in Berkshire, amazing catering, sensational wine and - surprisingly - sunshine were a truly welcome break from the bustle of the studio.</p><p>The late night dancing, swim in the self-cleaning eco pond (with neutered trout), and the croquet battle will definitely be my "happy place" until this month is over.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/09/my-happy-place" title="My Happy Place">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:76173 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/09/my-happy-place Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:43:56 +0100 <p>We showcased our autumn/winter 2011 collection with a presentation during London Fashion Week, in the ballroom of the Savile Club.</p><p>Created by May and Walter Burns in the 1890s, and reconstructed by an eminent firm of Parisian architects and decorators, the ballroom provided French opulence and a romantic backdrop to the presentation. Yann Arthus-Bertrand's photographs from the book <em>Earth From The Air</em> inspired a journey to explore the changing colours of the sky and aerial views. The Northern Lights (aurora borealis) provided the inspiration for the dreamy sky prints.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/08/22/strictly-ballroom" title="Strictly Ballroom">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:75863 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/08/22/strictly-ballroom Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0100 <p>I had really been meaning to document the incredible range of modes of transportation that are still on offer in this wonderful city of extremes. To be honest however, apart from a few furtive snaps from inside the car, my life has really been taken up by my autumn/winter 2011-12 deliveries.</p><p>My remaining free time has been spent trying to furnish our new apartment here. I must say that, since I last tried to do this in 2001, the choice of contemporary furniture now available in the city has improved tremendously. Previously the only real alternative for anyone wanting to steer away from the truly tacky was the infamous Chor Bazaar (Thieves Market) a collection of alley ways packed with some old, &nbsp;reproduction and "real fake antiques". &nbsp;Since my last visit, the hidden treasures have dwindled somewhat although I was able to pick up the frames of these two wood and brass chairs which the shopkeeper assured me be could restored to their former Art-Deco glory. Incidentally, over dinner a fine art specialist mentioned that Bombay is still very much the place for Art Deco so I am looking forward to her hot tips in this regard. If you never see a picture of these chairs again you can assume my experiment proved to be a bit of a disaster.</p><p>In keeping with the extremes to be found in the city, the contemporary Indian furniture stores that have sprung up do offer some beautiful things - but they are insanely expensive . I have therefore resorted to the traditional Indian solution - employ a craftsman and have them make you a piece to your own design. This of course is far more time consuming and stressful but it really gives me the chance to flex my creative muscles and to do a lot research which I thoroughly enjoy. At this moment I am officially in love with everything on the antique furniture websites as inspiration. Thus far I have been in contact with a bone-inlay and mother of pearl specialist in Rajasthan. I am &nbsp;very excited about giving these Indian classics my own contemporary twist. Fingers crossed</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/08/08/bombay-continued" title="Bombay Continued">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:75539 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/08/08/bombay-continued Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:01:05 +0100 <p>I am in Bombay right now working on my new collection and moving into my new apartment. As can be imagined, the combination of both is super stressful. I haven't been back to India during the monsoon season in years. I always try and avoid it as the constant rains make me so lethargic, and the traffic becomes even more insane than usual.</p><p>The people of Bombay, however, remain as energetic and enthusiastic as always regardless of the rain, traffic or the recent terrible terrorist attacks. On the way to our factory, I saw this man carrying thousands of bangles on his motorbike which reminded me that no matter the obstacle, people here always manage to get things done - excellent inspiration!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/07/22/bombay-the-city-that-never-stops" title="Bombay: The City That Never Stops">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:75123 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/07/22/bombay-the-city-that-never-stops Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:00:06 +0100 <p>I just shot my pre spring lookbook. The beautiful images below were shot by David Dunan. With a great team on board it was a great day. Leah Clough's detailed illustrations take her months to draw in ink and pen add amazing depth and life. Here are some of my favourite pictures!</p><p><br> <em>David Dunan</em></p><p><br> <em>Leah and her amazing illustrations</em></p><p><br> <em>Angelo Seminara</em></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/07/12/pre-spring/summer-2012" title="Pre Spring/Summer 2012">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:74802 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/07/12/pre-spring/summer-2012 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 16:25:26 +0100 <p>Drive from Santa Barbara to LA</p><p>I was recently in New York for the Saloni pre-spring sales meetings, and since I had some meetings booked in LA, I decided to spend a week in California as it was my first time ever on the West Coast.</p><p>Katie Hillier and Jeannie in Satine</p><p>Yummy lunch at The Little Door</p><p>Inside Hillary Rush's boutique with Slone and Katie Hillier</p><p>I spent the first few days in Santa Barbara at a friend's house for some serious relaxation. The drive back to LA along the coast was really beautiful. If you don't have a driving license (like me), in LA you are at the mercy of friends to drive you around since taxis are rare and distances are considerable. My friends were super sweet and drove me around a lot and when I needed to be independent I found Reza. He drives a super-kitsch town car and was a hilarious and fun companion to drive around with.</p><p>Confederacy</p><p>JF Chen Furniture store</p><p>Reza and his car that drove me around town</p><p>Tom Binns in his Venice studio</p><p>Having dinner with Katie at Sunset Marquis</p><p>Outside Maxfields</p><p>I enjoyed the great shopping on west 3^rd street at Satine where we stock, next door at Hillary Rush where she kept us entertained at her store. Joan's on Third and The Little Door are yummy places to eat on the same street. I found unique things at Mohawk General Store in Silverlake, Confederacy, and at Opening Ceremony. I also went to the Tom Binns studio in Venice, and the street Abbot Kinney in Venice is fun to eat and shop.</p><p>Shareen Vintage</p><p>Driving through Rodeo Drive</p><p>Art in the Streets exhibit at MOCA in downtown</p><p>The best way to get an amazing view of LA is definitely through a hike or you can go to the Griffin observatory which has an amazing view as well. My resolution before I visit LA again is definitely to get a driving license!</p><p>With Kate Sumner inside the Cosmic Room with my Tom Binns necklace</p><p>Baci at Free City store.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/06/los-angeles" title="Los Angeles">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:74390 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/06/los-angeles Wed, 29 Jun 2011 19:14:38 +0100 <p>Helena Christensen in the Apsara Dress © Rex Features</p><p>The Apsara dress from our spring/summer 2011 collection has been very popular this summer. All our dresses have names, but this one in particular was inspired by the divinely beautiful and curvaceous celestial maidens of Hindu mythology.</p><p>Apsara is a female spirit of the clouds and the waters. Originally water nymphs, they emerged from the ocean and became renowned for their charm and youthful elegance as celestial dancers to the Gods capable of stealing the hearts of spectators. Sometimes compared to the Muses of ancient Greece, the name seems to ideally suit this dress.</p><p>Samantha Cameron and Helena Christensen both look absolutely divine in their Apsara dresses.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/06/13/modern-goddesses" title="Modern Goddesses">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:71310 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/06/13/modern-goddesses Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:40:00 +0100 <p>Patrick Grant.</p><p>Since my husband is finally moving out of Seoul, I made my last trip to say goodbye to all our friends there and to pack up the house. Co-incidentally the lovely Katie Hillier and her boyfriend Patrick Grant were visiting at the same time, which made the trip even more fun!</p><p>Saloni spring/summer 2011 cashmere scarves at Boon The Shop.</p><p>Stunning installation at Boon The Shop.</p><p>Katie Hillier and Patrick.</p><p>I took a few days off with my hubby to travel to China as I had never been to either Beijing or Shanghai. Beijing provided the contrasting vision of hutongs (courtyard houses), and narrow lanes alongside the rapid development of modern buildings. The Forbidden City was absolutely rammed with domestic tour groups when we visited during the weekend but was nonetheless spectacular.</p><p>In Beijing, I received a kind, last minute invitation from Karla Otto for a DVF event on our first night there. Diane von Furstenberg and her team were all there to open the Journey of A Dress exhibition at the Pace Gallery. There, I unexpectedly ran into a few familiar faces like Tom Chapman of Matches, who kindly looked after us and treated us to a delicious dinner at the Aman in the Summer Palace - along with Hal Rubenstein of InStyle, Jessica Alba and the entire DVF team.</p><p>Forbidden City.</p><p>DVF event at the Pace Gallery.</p><p>Installation by the Chinese Artist.</p><p>Guests at the event.</p><p>Exhibition.</p><p>Tom Chapman.</p><p>Franca Sozzani of Italian <em>Vogue</em>.</p><p>Diane dancing with her husband.</p><p>Christian Louboutin with his fans.</p><p>Dinner at the Aman with DVF team and Jessica Alba.</p><p>Hal Rubenstein.</p><p>City of red lanterns.</p><p>Beautiful bookstore.</p><p>The Great Wall of China.</p><p>The next day we headed to Shanghai. It was a magical experience with its art deco buildings on the Bund and great dining. The DVF team were in Shanghai before coming to Beijing and recommended the Peninsula hotel, so we changed our reservation in time to enjoy the spectacular views of the river from this art deco paradise. The visual contrast between the two cities is something I had not really prepared for. Here are some of the moments from this trip.</p><p>Old image of Shanghai.</p><p>View from the Peninsula of Shanghai.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/05/06/a-trip-to-beijing" title="A Trip To Beijing">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43058 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/05/06/a-trip-to-beijing Fri, 06 May 2011 15:27:00 +0100 <p>Margo Stilley</p><p>NSPCC 's Surrealist Ball was a visual feast. I found a gift voucher from Paul Edmonds which I had in my bag since my birthday in Dec for a mani-pedi-blow-dry so I went and pampered myself before the event. Lots of amazing costumes and hats (especially by designer Piers Atkinson). I was lucky to get few pieces on a last minute request from him. I added some feathers to my McQueen dress and put an egg on my head (of course not a real one). Roland Mouret saved my life when the lace of my dress kept getting stuck in my heel he draped the fabric around my belt - genius! Also his advice was wear platforms next time with a dress like that!</p><p>Roland Mouret and Sojin Lee</p><p>Sarafina (in Piers Atkinson hat) and Dimitri</p><p>Charlotte Dellal and my new favourite eagle ring I found in the market</p><p>Atmosphere</p><p>Lulu Guinness</p><p>Change of headgear</p><p>Tracey Emin in front of her work she donated</p><p>I love my Piers Atkinson hairband!</p><p>Valentine Fillol-Cordier</p><p>Dean Stephen</p><p>Kim Hersov</p><p>Lulu's glowing bag</p><p>Our table.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/03/23/dressing-up-is-soo-real" title="Dressing Up Is Soo-Real!">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43061 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/03/23/dressing-up-is-soo-real Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:52:00 +0100 <p>With Katie Hillier at Costes</p><p>I arrived in Paris two days before my showroom started to treat myself, shop, eat and walk around this amazing city. It was super fun I found an amazing Marie Mercié hat, Dries Van Noten Seventies powder blue jeans and stunning pair of vintage ear rings - great props for dressing up during the week. After the showroom started I didn't leave the Hotel Lotti much. Having other showrooms like Tom Binns, Charlotte Olympia, Horiyoshi and Emilio de la Morena in the same hotel, there was never a dull moment!</p><p>We love stripes! Alexandra Eagle at the Joseph cocktails</p><p>Designer Carolyn Roumeguere and Joseph cocktails</p><p>Anna Dello Russo looking fab in Mary Katrantzou and Charlotte Olympia shoes</p><p>Laure Heriard Dubreuil from The Webster Miami</p><p>Bruce out and about (Charlotte Olympia autumn/winter 2011 collection)</p><p>Loved the sign at Ferdi</p><p>Amazing art at Tom Binns</p><p>Cristina (business partner of Tom Binns) outside their showroom</p><p>Robert Forrest and the team of Horiyoshi The Third</p><p>Olumpia Le Tan's showroom</p><p>Emilio de la Morena and Kara</p><p>Fendi bags at lunch</p><p>How amazing is this piece by Betony Vernon? (She made pieces for Alexander Wang's show)</p><p>Max and Erin of SUNO in my showroom</p><p>Daniella Agnelli (<em>Telegraph</em>) and Gloria Baume (<em>Teen Vogue</em>) having fun with the owl brooch and scarf from the new collection</p><p>Misha Nonoo with another owl brooch and of course the Nonoo jacket</p><p>Martha from Harvey Nichols Istanbul looking fab in the bird scarf</p><p>Biggest diamond spotted in my showroom - 8 carat heart shaped diamond!</p><p>Outside Derrièr on rue Gravilliers in the Marais</p><p>Rike Feurstein cosy and colourful scarf that stylist Sebastian Kaufmann was wearing</p><p>Charlotte Olympia fruit shoes at Colette</p><p>Shoe designer Paola Bay - loving the leopard print with those tights</p><p>Anne Slowey's adorable little daughter</p><p>My amazing team!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/03/21/paris-fashion-week" title="Paris Fashion Week">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43063 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/03/21/paris-fashion-week Mon, 21 Mar 2011 18:11:00 +0100 <p>Elizabeth Von Guttman.</p><p>Joseph hosted a dinner at Joe's café and Browns had an amazing event in the basement of Royal Academy (my new favourite venue!), for Club Monaco. It was a fun evening and exactly the celebration I needed after my presentation!</p><p>Karla Otto</p><p>Sarah Harris and Olivia Palermo.</p><p>Pat McGrath.</p><p>Derek Blasberg.</p><p>Karla and Derek with Lyle Maltz.</p><p>Andre Saraiva.</p><p>Kate Sumner with Caroline Burstein.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/the-post-show-party" title="The Post Show Party">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43066 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/the-post-show-party Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:07:00 +0100 <p>Bird Cupcakes</p><p>I just showcased my autumn/winter 2011 collection with a presentation at the Savile Club. Created by May and Walter Burns in the 1890s and reconstructed by an eminent firm of Parisian architects and decorators, the Ballroom provided French opulence to the presentation. The collection was inspired by the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), and city grids and lights as if viewed from the air - so the ballroom was perfect as its ceiling feels like a sky. Collaborating with artist Kelly McCallum and Pianist Rosey Chan, the presentation had a romantic feel to it. Here are some of my favorite pictures taken by Nick Harvey and Mark Makela.</p><p>Artist Kelly McCallum who collaborated and worked on the amazing flamingos.</p><p>Rosey Chan on the piano.</p><p>Panos working his magic.</p><p>French opulence at the Savile Club.</p><p>Lydia Forte</p><p>Poppy Delevingne and Josephine De La Baume.</p><p>Sara Byworth.</p><p>Charlotte Olympia in our cashmere scarf.</p><p>Miranda and Emma.</p><p>My team Georgina Graham, Panos Papandrianos and Serena Mattar.</p><p>Rebecca Corbin Murray.</p><p>Carmen Borgonovo</p><p>Arnaud Baumberger with Rosey.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/aw11-presentation" title="a/w11 Presentation">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43067 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/aw11-presentation Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:04:00 +0100 <p>Ines de la Fressange and&nbsp;Rami Mekdachi.</p><p>I have been cooped up in the studio working on autumn/winter 2011 as our presentation is in less than two weeks during LFW. I was looking to take my mind off work this weekend and two great invitations came my way. First was for an early afternoon on Friday to meet the super chic Ines de la Fressange along with Rami Mekdachi, the fragrance artistic director for Roger Vivier. It was an intimate afternoon in their store and a real pleasure listening to Rami about the fragrances he had created inspired by nature- Iris, Néroli, Rose, Sandalwood and Amber each one of them unique. The second was from my friend Guillaume to go and watch the iconic French director François Truffaut's <em>Les Quatre Cents Coups</em> at the BFI as they are doing a retrospective on him. Thoroughly enjoyed these inspiring distractions and now back to the grind until Fashion Week!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/fashion-break" title="Fashion Break">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43069 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/fashion-break Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:36:00 +0100 <p>The Daina dress, as worn by Hailee Steinfeld.</p><p>We were very excited to find out that Hailee Steinfeld chose to wear Daina dress from our spring/summer 2011 collection at her press conference. Check out this video on youtube, <em>Hailee Steinfeld Reacts To Her 2011 Oscar Nomination</em>:<br> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLZQe_QBpuo&amp;feature=youtube_gdata_player">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLZQe_QBpuo&amp;feature=youtube_gdata_player</a>.</p><p>The SS11 collection is available at Harvey Nichols, Browns and Matches in the UK.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/star-fan" title="Star Fan">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43070 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/star-fan Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:31:00 +0100 <p>Ellen von Unwerth and Rebecca Corbin-Murray.</p><p>I ended my 2010 desperately trying to finish deadlines and my new collection, and by going to some fun pre-Xmas parties and dinners. My favourite was definitely dining with the incredible Ellen von Unwerth. It was an immense pleasure meeting her as I am huge fan of her work. I went to visit my in laws for Xmas in Cairo and was extremely lucky to be on one of the few flights that left when the airports came to a standstill. I have been to Cairo few times but this was the first time I went to Khan el-Khalili, an old market in the centre of Cairo. The beautiful architecture surrounding the narrow streets of the market selling knick-knacks is a beautiful and contrasting vision. I came back to London for New Years and my friend Charlotte hosted a small intimate dinner with hilarious props. Here is a random mix of photos of the end of 2010. Looking forward to many more adventures in 2011!</p><p>With Nicolai Von Bismarck at their Christmas Party.</p><p>Khan el-Khalili.</p><p>In the market in Cairo - inspired by Subodh Gupta.</p><p>The making of the traditional hat - the 'fez'.</p><p>Back in London after New Year's celebrating with Charlotte in her shoes.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/01/17/wish-you-all-a-very-happy-2011" title="Wish You All A Very Happy 2011!">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43073 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/01/17/wish-you-all-a-very-happy-2011 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:39:00 +0100 Thu, 25 Aug 2016 15:37:43 +0100 http://www.vogue.co.uk Thu, 25 Aug 2016 15:37:43 +0100 condenet.technical@condenast.co.uk en-gb