Jo Malone's 'Just Because' Dinner

We all know there is nothing better than receiving an unexpected gift, especially when said gift arrives in a distinctive pale yellow box with a black ribbon!  It is with that exact warm, fuzzy feeling in mind, and that celebration of generosity, which lies behind Jo Malone’s ‘Just Because’ campaign.  

Being thoughtful and spoiling a friend or loved one with some gorgeous Jo Malone treats completely out of the blue, for no particular reason, is a pretty darn lovely idea, and one we honoured recently over a lavish dinner at the Jo Malone Townhouse in Marylebone. 

Amongst hundreds of cream and black balloons, a mountain of gift boxes and a multitude of glowing Jo Malone candles exuding heavenly scents, guests (including Portia Freeman and Laura Jackson, below), enjoyed overflowing glasses of champagne and a delicious dinner. 

Not only were each of us totally spoilt with our very own ‘Just Because’ gift, all which were personalised with a unique reason for the kind gesture, but we were also able to have a go on the now famous Jo Malone pier-style Gift Grabber.  I managed a record grab of three small pressies at one time, a triumph I obviously gracefully down played… WHATEVER, I WON BIG PEOPLE, BIG! HUUUUGE! I’M THE WINNNNNERRRRRR!!  Errrrrrrm... Like I said, graceful.

Below:  My Basil and Neroli 'Just Because' gift from Jo Malone, adorably citing ‘Just Because we think Willow would approve…” referencing my beloved niece! A much appreciated, random act of kindness on a random Tuesday... #JustBecause! Thank you Jo Malone xx

TLC Loves.... Jo Malone

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Matthew Williamson's Belvoir Collection

In a wonderful attempt to coax the Spring sunshine out of hiding, Matthew Williamson’s ‘Gown Gang’ congregated at the palatial Kiping Sweet in Brown’s Hotel in Mayfair to play dress up in our favourite designer’s new Belvoir Collection. 

Matthew's opulent collection is inspired by Belvoir Castle and its beautiful interiors, with beautifully flowing countryside florals and eccentric patterns featuring monkeys and peacocks. 

After a breakfast feast comprising of acai bowls and chocolate dipped bananas (and apple pastries, which I admit, I ate four of – but they were REALLY REALLY TINY, people!) Charlotte Tilbury’s amazing team were on hand to give us all gorgeous make-overs. 

After each choosing one of the show stopping dresses to wear, and grabbing a pair of Cinderella worthy Jimmy Choo's, we braced the chilly streets of London for our multi-coloured Sun Dance (a little like a Rain Dance but with less stomping, and a lot more of our signature swooshing!)

Now, we don’t want to compleeeeetely take credit for the recent heavenly rays shining through the grey… But I don’t want to fully discount this theory either.  Jus’sayin.

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Photography:  Moeez Ali

Hair:  Secret Spa

Nails:  Sophie Gass

Yin Yoga with Nike Women

After weeks of hanging out sofa-side with my horribly sprained wrist (having two hands is now something I count among the highest of blessings) I have been feeling in desperate need of stretch! Not being able to function at my usual fast paced rate, where I usually dash all over London at all hours, has made me go out of my mind, and feel unusually frustrated.  I’ve felt soft in body predictably, but also in mind.  When Nike Women approached me and asked me to attend a private yoga class with Jessica Skye, kitted out in all their newest active wear, this wee marshmallow jumped at the chance! Now that my wrist is feeling stronger, this was exactly the push I needed to start my road back to feeling tough and sprightly again.

Nike currently have a relaxing pop-up yoga studio in the basement of FaceGym UK, on the King’s Road in Chelsea. I arrived with all the gear - and absolutely no idea!  There had been so many great Nike yoga options to choose from, but I had decided on some Nike Zonal Strength High-Rise Training Tights (I love their ombre’esq black to grey colour and the v-shaped waist band is ultra flattering), a supportive Nike Indy Cooling Sports Bra, and a super soft and loose fitting Nike Dry Training Top. 

I was soon in the softly lit studio with the wonderful Jessica Skye (Yoga Guru, SLASH DJ, SLASH Nike trainer, SLASH major babe) who instantly came up with a gentle Yin Yoga routine for me to follow, which would make sure my objectives were reached; to feel a little more mentally relaxed and suitably stretched - all while keeping my wrist free from any pressure or weight.

Yin Yoga, Jessica explained, comes from the Taoist tradition and is all about finding stillness, and cooling the body.  This practice is great for those who are already active but who suffer from mental overload and “mind chatter’ (errrrrrm, hello?! Yes! Hand raised!) With one eye constantly on my phone, replying to emails and updating my social media, these slow-paced poses and bends can prove to be the perfect antidote.  

After the class I felt so relaxed, and a lot more awake and alert than I had in weeks. I was given my own monogrammed Nike sports bra and a delicious cold pressed juice before heading upstairs to try the signature FaceGym facial.  I definitely feel ready, now I have my bounce back and my wrist is feeling stronger by the day, to start getting fitter – and with all the best kit to wear, I now have no excuse!

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Some other TLC Nike Yoga faves...

In collaboration with Nike Women
Nails:  Sophie Gass.  Photography:  Maria Bazhanova

HAWT: Sienna Miller in Gucci

Hawt = A late 1940's and early 1950's acronym for "Having A Wonderful Time."
Now the word is used on the internet as slang for something reeeeally hot.

Last week Sienna Miller lit up the red carpet like a beautiful ray of sunshine in her fantastical Gucci Lampshade Dress.  Alessandro Michele’s oversized detailing and bold colours once again stole the show at the premiere of Sienna’s latest film, Live By Night, a prohibition era crime thriller directed by Ben Affleck, which I can't wait to see. This icy blue, layered tulle gown, very different from Sienna’s minimalist Golden Globes ensemble, was full of character, wonderfully clashing with its icicle like golden sequins and her red power pout.  This magical look gets an almighty big Red Carpet High Five from TLC; un fashion triomphe.

Below:  'Live by Night' (out in cinemas NOW)

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Christmas Time on Regent Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

TLC Loves… Space NK

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

TLC LOVES… L’Occitane 

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

TLC Loves... Anthropologie

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

In collaboration with Regent Street
Photography:  Ella Sadika

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Sisley Paris at the Harvey Nichols Beauty Lounge (*With Reader Offer)

I was so excited to recently go to Harvey Nichols for a day of indulgent pampering in their newly opened Beauty Lounge. As a child I used to dream about being locked up in a sweet shop, as an adult… The ground floor of Harvey Nichs, every luxurious and elegant 1,207 sq m of it, might just fit the current bill! 

Amidst all the installations, marble floorings and curated rows of every one of my favourite brands, are several areas dedicated to express services, including blow dries and manicures. In my opinion, this London beauty destination is pretty much unrivalled, and this month saw the addition of fine jewellery and sunglasses also hit its floors.   

As well as having my hair tousled into the perfect beach waves at the Hersheson’s blow dry bar, and having Nails Inc paint my tips and toes in their foil effect ‘King’s Road’ polish I was thoroughly spoiled with a Sisley Paris facial… Heaven!

My Sisley Essential Facial took place in their own designated treatments rooms, found off a mesmerising (insta-worthy) rose gold corridor.  Amongst the fluffy towels, glowing light and deep inhalations of Phyto-Complex Essential Oils, I was transported onto the most relaxing of clouds.  Having had quite problematic skin this year, my therapist cleansed and treated my skin with perfectly prescribed products (below), ones I have continued to use ever since and am thrilled with. 

Although on the pricier side, I have found each Sisley Paris purchase a real investment.  Founded by Hubert d’Ornano in 1976, Sisley products still to this day uses botanical active ingredients and essential oils and the phytotherapy-based results are beyond nourishing, and I’m a complete convert.  

With the cold weather taking its toll on our skin, Sisley have kindly offered TLC readers a little Wintery treat... Call the Harvey Nichols Beauty Lounge (0207 2355000 ext. 2289) to book a Sisley facial (from £50.00, redeemable against two skincare products) between the 4th – 7th December'16, 29th January - 1st February'17, or 24th February - 27th February'17 and receive a complimentary *Coffret Fleur Gift Set (worth £50.00). Errrrm... Amazing?!! Make sure to quote ‘The London Chatter’ when booking.

TLC Loves... Sisley Paris

(Click on the below products for direct links)

* Contents may vary from those shown
* Subject to availability

TLC Staycation: The Hari, London

I can’t even tell you how spoiling it was to stay at The Hari, London during London Fashion Week… But I can try!  At a time where I zoom around like a mad thing, keeping to a tight schedule with multiple outfit changes for varying shows and events, it was a total dreeeeam to have The Hari, a little gem of a hotel in London’s Belgravia, as my beyond comfortable base, with their phenomenally helpful team on hand to make sure I was as Happy as Larry… So happy in fact, that actually leaving was pretty heartbreaking!! 

Above: Checking in with my Rimowa Limbo Suitcase and personalised Tephi Garment Bag. 

There are 85 bedrooms, including 14 luxury suites, at The Hari, created in an almost Mad-Men’esq way by leading British interior designer Tara Bernerd.  Think plush velvets, hardwood oak floors, eclectic furnishings, marbled bathrooms… Heaven!

Above:  Now that's a welcome!  Being met in my rooms by bubbles, truffles and and an indulgent LFW Survival Kit which included treats from Biscuiteers, Ren, and a Sunday's Mini Moon eye mask.

The Hari was perfectly located for me to zip in and out of town without any hassle, being only a five-minute walk to Knightsbridge tube station, or quick ride in an Uber... But juuuust about far away enough from all the buzz to really be able to zone out and relax when needed. 

Above:  My Sisley Paris beauty products and Tom Ford make up looked more than at home in my chic marble bathroom at The Hari. (Jewellery from Laura Gravestock, Missoma and Auree). 

The 24-hour room service was a totally blessing - not only did I enjoy the most amazing breakfasts each morning (I quickly learnt I was just MADE to be woken up with fresh orange juice and sea salt porridge with maple syrup), but having delicious, healthy food on hand after long days rushing about grabbing snacks on the go, was incredibly appreciated. (Masini and  Chern Barbados Pyjama Set at Apples & Drawers).

The hotel’s impeccable concierge service was utterly amazing, helpfully receiving any of my deliveries and catering to any of my particular whims. I don’t have many particular whims in case you were wondering, but HOW comforting to know that, in case of emergency, they would have been meticulously catered for! 

When not spending every possible second at The Hari snuggled up, resting my poor battered feet, there were plenty of chilled areas around the hotel to enjoy a little R&R (and a cocktail or two…) The terrace is particularly gorgeous and bar area was clearly a popular evening option for guests and non guests alike. 

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Below:  Checking Out.  Thank you to The Hari for being the ultimate LFW haven to lay my hat (and eight dresses, six pairs of heels, three pairs of boots… and... and...)

AW'16 Trends with Monsoon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photography: Eva Salvi

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

In Collaboration with MONSOON

Matthew Williamson x USA Pro

This summer Matthew Williamson released a twenty-piece capsule collection of active and yoga wear with sportswear specialists USA Pro and I attended the collaboration’s launch at the South Kensington Club.  

The distinctive collection of leggings, zip-up jackets and sport's bra tops, combine USA Pro’s in depth technical active wear knowledge, with three of Matthew’s signature vibrant and exotic prints. The results are super stylish, yet practical - perfect for the gym, the mat... and more likely for me, the sofa... "Doing absolutely nothing in my (*Matthew Williamson) active wear...!"

“I view active and loungewear as a key component of our expansion into lifestyle in 2016. I am delighted to be able to design for another part of every modern woman’s wardrobe – distinct from ready-to-wear yet important for their everyday lives.”  Matthew Williamson. 

Above (Clockwise) L-R:  With Rosanna Falconer, Alicia Rowntree, Matthew and Sienna Miller.

Above: It's Miller Time with Matthew and my school pals, Savannah Miller and Sienna Miller.

I wore my Kaleidoscopic Butterfly Wheel printed High Neck Bra Top and Shorts in my first kick boxing class whilst on holiday in Kenya recently. The infamous saying, ‘all the gear and no idea’ has never been relevant, seeing me definitely float like a butterfly, not sting like a bee...! 

TLC LOVES... Matthew Williamson x USA Pro

Tried and Tested: RUUBY APP

I frequently have those, ‘Thank God (and Steve Jobs) for my iPhone’ moments during the day... How did we cope beforehand?! Seriously?! I recently had a clear out and stumbled across my well-thumbed, little pink A-Z I had to so heavily rely upon when when I first moved to London as a jobbing, auditioning actress… Kids these days, especially ones with no sense of direction like Baby Kelly, will NEVER know that level of stress (or ever have to own a calculator... or have to wait in the rain praying for a Black Cab to appear!) New apps which continue to make our lives easier, photos better, and sentences shorter are released every day and knowing which ones to download that will actually make a helpful impact, rather than take up vital storage space is key.  Ladies… I’ve found one. 

Ruuby is London’s original, and most popular, free digital beauty concierge.  Offering you direct and last minute access to London’s top spas and salons (each vetted meticulously by Ruuby) at the mere quick tap of a screen, leaving those ol'days of googling random places and calling them up in the frustrated hope of a free appointment, or experiencing a lacklustre treatment, back in your past alongside your own little A-Z.  Even more relaxingly, Ruuby also offer therapists who can visit and pamper you from the comfort of your own home, allowing that cherished ‘me time’ to be easily fitted into even the busiest of schedules.

I was asked by Ruuby to try out some of their treatments… I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again; My job does NOT suck.  

First up was a mani, pedi at home.  Usually I enjoy the hub-bub of my local Notting Hill nail salon, frequently visiting for a catch up with my bestie.  However, on this particular exhausting day, being able to just zone out and watch some The Gilmore Girls (televised Soul Food) whilst having my favourite Essie colours applied to my hands (‘Lilacism’) and feet (‘No Place Like Chrome’) was pretty heavenly. The best part? No smudging the paint en route home, which let’s face it, aaaaalways happens to me regardless of how careful I am!

I then tried an at home spray tan.  With a pop up spray tent set up in my sitting room, I was goldenised with Siena spray before being able to pop on some loose, unflattering dark clothes and hop into bed.  Waking up to a quick shower and looking a whole lot healthier without any sun-damage, or more importantly not having to bump into any friends (or exes!) whilst looking like a potato, was the dream! 

Next I headed to Richard Ward’s salon on Chelsea’s Duke of York Square, famous for assisting the Duchess of Cambridge with her famous glossy locks – Well, if It’s good enough for Kate…!  The salon is vast and overwhelmingly slick. With a dedicated team of around 80 professionals, amazingly comfortable Japanese reclining chairs, a glitzy beauty zone and an enticing bar area, you can understand why getting appointments here is usually not easy. Using Ruuby however, I could make a fuss free, last minute appointment for the perfect hair swishing party-ready blow dry. 

Finally, I decided to book an appointment with Ruuby’s famed braider, Shabnam, who visited my flat one morning to plait my hair ahead of a lunch at Eight Over Eight, organized by my friend, Rosie Fortescue. I love having my hair braided, especially when it looks a little undone, with a few strands coming out, creating that much-requested ethereal feel.  Also, as long as you don’t go crazy, or get the style wet, it can last a coupe of days.  It was great having my braids done, whilst checking my emails and having my morning cuppa – multi-tasking at it’s best! 

TLC LOVES:  Ruuby...

As I was so impressed with my experiences, I’ve teamed up with Ruuby and we’re offering my readers and followers £10.00 off any treatment when you use the code ‘TLCLOVESRUUBY’ for the whole of September 2016.  Yoooooou’re welcome!