Blogs by Georgie

LaDress

Friday 12th March 2010

Loving La Dress’ Crêpe de chine tunic dress. Want one in every colour... Rose: Lilac: Navy: Then there’s the grey not to mention black...

Chanel Le Vernis Nouvelle Vague, Mistral, Riviera...

Tuesday 9th March 2010

... are the new Chanel nail colours for Spring / Summer. Not sure Nouvelle Vague is quite for me (reminds me of Hard Candy days - summer '95 we recreated Neopolitan ice cream on our nails - not a good look) but Mistral here I come.

Getting Your Photography Right

Monday 8th March 2010

Whilst updating images in the directory I came across this (followed by ahhhhs from the girls in the office) – Jonny Boden knows just how to get his photography right....

Working at The Weekend

Sunday 7th March 2010

What happens when you spend the weekend working in the office? Well in my world you shop online. Whilst thankfully over the last six months I’ve spent a lot fewer weekends working than I used to, as we’re at a wedding next and in the US the following two I thought I’d take...

So Now It's Summer Season...

Saturday 6th March 2010

In press day land at least. I've just been to OKA's summer press day at the Hurlingham Club and here's some of what I saw: Loved the coral tableware. This set of x3 will retail for around £500 and is all year round weather proof. Chic accessories. A couple of these would look amazing scattered around the...

SL Out In Force...

Friday 5th March 2010

So the SheerB2B two day eCommerce conference (that we run for online retailers) is over and done with. Which frankly is a relief; I think last week I came the nearest to a nervous breakdown I have done since I started SheerLuxe! A flooded drinks venue, a speaker/sponsor in hospital with a...

When is the right time for a facelift?

Monday 22nd February 2010

So it's time for a facelift - not for me I hasten to add (sure the time will come) but for SheerLuxe. SL was born over three years ago now and it's definitely time for a refresh. I say refresh - we're actually going for a complete rebrand. In a nutshell, when I started it,...

Midweek Half Days...

Friday 12th February 2010

So the accountant and I celebrated ten years last week. Two girlfriends had given me two tips but needless to say as with anything popular, when I went to try and book them for a Saturday, it was a no go. Instead we both blocked out our diaries and booked a half day...

Now there is an 'I' in iphone...

Friday 5th February 2010

I don’t have an iPhone. There you go, I said it. The fact that I don’t have one – until next week at least, has shocked many. And frankly I was pretty embarrassed when at a 30th birthday a fellow party goer shouted across the table (at Annabel’s no less) ‘surely you of...

What To Wear Skiing in Colorado...

Wednesday 27th January 2010

Group skiing holidays are a complete nightmare to coordinate – especially as you get older. Weddings, work commitments and dare I say the fact that most of your friends now have more than just a plus one. Last year’s lot all fit into one of the above so instead of trying to team...

Good Intentions....

Monday 11th January 2010

So I’m not usually one to even contemplate a detox but somehow this year I felt differently. Getting back from hols mid December meant that we rolled right into parties and by month end I think I’d had just three nights that were even close to being dry. New Year’s Eve was beyond...

To Paradise & Back...

Monday 21st December 2009

So I have quite literally been to heaven and back. Our nine nights away were the perfect mix of action and relaxation. Two days in Singapore staying with friends was super social / tiring / heavy but such fun to taste a slice of ex pat life. The locals call it ‘Asia Lite’...

Summer Sun Here I Come...

Wednesday 9th December 2009

A very old friend came for dinner last week and said she might not have seen me for three months but she knew what I’d been up to because she always reads my blog. A friend of my step mother’s just said the exact same thing. Well this is the last blog you’ll...

The 'Wreath-Off'...

Tuesday 1st December 2009

When we get back from hols the Christmas party season will be in full swing – perfect timing for me and my tan to make an entrance. For the first time ever, the accountant and I are having our very own tree (the one bed shoe box was far too small and thanks...

Christmas Gift Guides...

Sunday 15th November 2009

A couple of companies have asked me to pick out my best buys in their Christmas gift selections this year. One being The Handpicked Collection – if you haven’t yet discovered this emporium of gifty goodies then do check it out. Jo McGivern, the company’s founder has created a cool company that delivers...

November November

Friday 6th November 2009

To me, early November means a number of things... Red wine in place of white, another birthday (the accountant blew the budget and took me to Zuma – what a treat), colder weather (I’m now really ready for my winter coat), my little mouse and her fear of fireworks, X Factor and...

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding...

Monday 26th October 2009

The age old question: what to wear to a winter wedding. Tights is a must but how thick (black opaques can look harsh), long or short sleeves (dancing to consider), coat vs jacket... and on it goes. With one of my greatest girlfriends tying the knot in under two weeks' time...

Loubous, Scallops & Steak...

Friday 9th October 2009

Third year wedding anniversary is leather. Having just spent a small (ok large) fortune on the new house the accountant offered me restaurant and a sample swatch of leather or a new pair of Loubous, scallops and steak at our new dining table. No brainer. Loubous, scallops (cooked with bacon, pine nuts and...

We're In...

Friday 25th September 2009

Ok so now I understand a) what it means to be a proud new home owner and b) what it is to LOVE your bed. Yes we’re in and boy am I knackered. Like never before. A week off work to move house is more strenuous than the most stressful of working weeks. But...

So Now It's Time...

Friday 11th September 2009

I don’t think I’ve felt quite this excited since I got married and I’m sure I slept better in the week prior to that (ok perhaps there was the odd pill) than I have done this. After a long long waiting game we finally completed on our first house this Friday....

Not So Easy...

Wednesday 2nd September 2009

As I write this I’m stuck in Malaga airport. Unamused. Yes, as I always say to the accountant, you get what you pay for in this world and the £30 I saved booking EasyJet over BA has long since been spent. To explain, earlier this week - in dire need of some sun (the...

So Long Summer Holiday...

Friday 14th August 2009

Our summer holiday this year is a.k.a going to the dentist (we both need so much work that I can’t even bear to think about it – our own fault, we hadn’t been for ages but boy do they know how to leave you feeling like you’ve been robbed), buying a house and...

My Moment Matroning...

Monday 27th July 2009

So my moment as matron of honour has passed. And what a moment it was. I say moment, but I was lucky enough to spend the Friday before the big day with the bride. We mani’d and pedi’d amongst the kind of women who do it every Friday - during the day. Post-pampering,...

A Proud Purchase

Tuesday 7th July 2009

In my book, being a savvy shopper means being proud of your purchases. And when I’m wearing one (a proud purchase that is) I’m only too happy to share it with the world. Girlfriends often ask why, when one could potentially be kitted out in some hot new designer, I’m so open about...

Succumbing to the Needle...

Monday 22nd June 2009

In the pursuit of good journalism (or perhaps vanity), I have, dear readers, succumbed to the needle... You see from a young age I’ve been more than aware that my top lip is, well, really rather lacking. Couple that with an offer to improve it with Restylane (apparently THE safest non...

Brochures, Samples & Swatches...

Wednesday 17th June 2009

The accountant wasn’t all that impressed that I’d announced it on SL but (and sorry darling), this house buying lark is slow! Still no date for exchange and we had our offer accepted three weeks ago. My kitchen table is piled high with brochures, paint samples and fabric swatches from practically every retailer listed...

Moving Up & On...

Monday 1st June 2009

After five years in a one bedroom flat that could be mistaken for a shoe box, we’ve just had an offer accepted on a house! Tempting fate to blog about it I know but sometimes the excitement just gets the better of you. We had decided we’d wait until later this year but...

Ladies That Lunch...

Friday 15th May 2009

Yesterday I played amongst the ladies that lunch. Katherine (SL’s Commerical Manager) and I hit Spirit of Summer at Olympia. No prizes for working out that it’s the summer version of Spirit of Christmas – the vast shopping fair. Thankfully Spirit of Summer isn’t quite so vast. Probably something do with the...

Bonnie Baby Bertie...

Monday 11th May 2009

It’s really quite extraordinary how many of our friends have had boys (baby boys). Well, all of them actually. I could count the recent baby boys on two hands. There would be no girls on either. Ok so it’s a 50 / 50 shot but it’s a little freaky none the less. No...

Easy Entertaining...

Wednesday 29th April 2009

My husband’s a far better cook than me and he knows it. I quote, "Hon, you’re good at lots of things but cooking’s just not your strong point..." I love entertaining but I’m no Nigella. In my book, fine wine (and plenty of it) comes before fine food on the priorities list; keep their...

Ready & Raring...

Wednesday 15th April 2009

My American sister-in-law tells me that across the pond they’re officially allowed to wear white after Easter. Whilst I might not be sporting the head to toe virginal look just yet, I have decided to fully embrace Spring. I say fully, but big-bellied Brits with it all hanging out are too much. I...

A Competitive Life...

Thursday 9th April 2009

Life as a fashion designer is sooo competitive. There are a lot of really great designers out there and you wonder, not because of their lack of talent but because of their sheer volume, whether they’ll ever really make it. When you think what a rollercoaster ride a designer as well connected as Stella...

Lash-Tastic...

Friday 20th March 2009

I’m all for making the best of oneself and in my book there’s no harm in the odd improvement; sadly I wasn’t blessed with the long lashes gene so I’ve long been meaning to give extensions a go. Like all beauty procedures, you need to be careful who you choose (one company,...

Post Conference...

Sunday 8th March 2009

Big sigh of relief... the SheerLuxe E-Tailer Conference is over! Two days of seminars delivered to (on each day) 130 delegates (online business owners and marketing professionals), lots of networking, rather too much wine after day one for some (me included), not enough sleep... We were lucky enough to have some top rate speakers...

Twitter Away...

Friday 27th February 2009

Running a website you’d think I’d be in the know when it comes to all thinks technology related... not so (unless you’re talking to my mother who, because I can talk her through downloading an attachment, has me in her phone book under tech support – oh the irony). OK so SheerLuxe is...

The House Hunt...

Friday 6th February 2009

If ever there was a time for me to virtually shop it’s 2009. This year hubby and I are on the house hunt. We’ve been patiently waiting for well, too long now, but looks like our time might finally be in sight. As always we’re being very cautious (I say we...) and are...

Date Night...

Wednesday 28th January 2009

Canoodling couple (and that’s being kind) on the table next to us aside, last night hubby and I did date night and had an off the scale dining experience. I’ve always thought it’s so important, every month or so, to forget the washing, the rubbish and anything else that’s the cause of, dare I...

Wedding Belles...

Sunday 11th January 2009

Well so far my January hasn’t been all that dreary at all. Two of my greatest girl friends have just got engaged – (not to each other) both to other halves that I’m deeply fond of (always a plus). To one of them I’m Matron of Honour which means I got to spend...

Happy Hols...

Friday 19th December 2008

Back from hols and I can’t quite get my head around the fact that this time on Sunday, hubby, my Heidi Klein bikini and I were lying in 32 degree Thai heat. With the office move, all hope of a holiday and any summer sun had been postponed to winter sun and suddenly...

Marry Me...

Monday 1st December 2008

Now and then something pops up that has us all weak at the knees... When this was spotted in the office, let’s just say there were a whole lot of coos from the unengaged, the engaged and the married girls amongst us. It was quickly decided that someone (and that that someone should be...

The Towniest of Townies...

Friday 21st November 2008

According to my mother, my dog (who has just been staying with her) is a townie just like her mistress. Apparently she was somewhat apprehensive about wading through the wet leaves in the park (who could blame her) but was right at home when they hit the King’s Road... Ok so she does take...

Birthday Spoils...

Wednesday 12th November 2008

I’ve just had a very spoiling birthday... a heavenly twenty four hours at my favourite spot, The Village Pub, in Barnsley near Cirencester. It really is a gem. I’m not mad keen on huge hotels with pretentious, over-priced dining rooms in the middle of the countryside, and this is everything but. The Village...

No Time; New Skirt

Tuesday 21st October 2008

With new offices and new additions to the team (welcome Natalie & Katherine) you’d think I’d have a bit more time on my hands... Not so, with new offices and new team members came a fundraising (now complete, what a relief), the Christmas Gift Guide (Laura has done a phenomenal job) a...

Early Mornings & Accessories...

Sunday 5th October 2008

Last Thursday was busy. First stop was a visit to Louboutin to take back my favourite shoes – a S/S patent nude peep toe with bow. They were a present from hubby and after one too many at a wedding the other weekend, one of the bows came off. When I woke up...

Delicous Wellicous...

Monday 29th September 2008

Let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like slopping around in trackie Bs and a hoodie when the diary’s empty and the weather’s grey. That said, hubby isn’t all that enamoured by my TBs and whilst I don’t exactly blame him, as a self confessed workaholic (at least four nights a week, my working day...

A Novelty Day Off...

Friday 19th September 2008

Life’s a constant rush and it’s all go here. We’re moving offices, taking on new team members and I’m taking Monday off! Know that I haven’t had a week off since March and you’ll see why even a day means serious forward planning, not to mention a novelty. Not to mention the fact...

The Good Old Cornish Weather...

Saturday 23rd August 2008

A trip to Cornwall (at least in our neck of the woods) is a little like a trip into the dark ages... A boiler so decrepit that it only does two baths at a time, mobile signal that’s patchy to say the least, wireless connection that’s virtually non existent (a stressful hour was...

A Little More Than Like-Minded...

Tuesday 12th August 2008

It’s uncanny how similar Laura (of SheerLuxe) and my tastes are. Send us to the same store and we're bound to pick out the same pieces; we’re also both potty about dim sum, the colour blush, neon pink and coral coloured nail varnish, pick n mix (though I do wonder when I’ll grow...

The Latest Luxe Craze...

Saturday 2nd August 2008

Reading an FT report on luxury the other day I was intrigued to hear about the latest craze to hit Japan. (We’re not talking high street hello kitty here, we’re talking uber luxe.) Apparently for those in the know, the days of head to toe Vuitton are long gone and in its place is...

Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining...

Monday 21st July 2008

As I sat in Starbucks with my little sister last week I thought the couple sat on the table next to us who had no food, no drink and who were messing around with an extra chair – hanging a coat over, then poking the inside of it – seemed strange. Me of...

The Perfect Little Party...

Tuesday 8th July 2008

I have to give it to my sister in law, when it comes to organising and entertaining, she does everything absolutely beautifully; her wedding was nothing short of a military operation – five days (she's from the US) of parties organised and executed with serious style. When it comes to her kids, the same...

Antique Dining...

Monday 23rd June 2008

Now unless the 4 C’s come in to the equation (ie colour, cut, carat, clarity – you got it diamonds), I’ve always thought that antiques don’t really float my boat. At worst they conjure up images of an old Aunt’s home that was musty to say the least; at best they bring...

A Few Sites To Check Out...

Friday 6th June 2008

Out and about this week I’ve come across some fabulous new businesses that we’ll be adding to the site shortly. I did a seminar at Pulse (a trade show for wholesales businesses) on Monday about ecommerce and afterwards snaked my way up and down the rows of exhibitors – exhibitors hoping that buyers...

New York Trends...

Tuesday 3rd June 2008

I was in New York last week (so much fun) and whilst there I wandered into the odd(!) shop because quite frankly, it would have been rude not to! Being a makeup junkie I love nothing more than the beauty halls of Bloomingdales and Macy’s and checking out all the latest makeup trends...

Coffee, Cake & A Good Gossip...

Friday 23rd May 2008

After coffee and cakes at Sketch this morning I was left feeling rather traumatised. Not at the coffee and cakes or Sketch (I could camp out there all day) but at the ‘home truths’ (on Hollywood’s rich and famous) that the glam gal from New York I was meeting with seemed to be...

Let The Wedding Season Begin...

Monday 12th May 2008

For me, this weekend marked the kick off to the summer wedding season and if they’re all as fabulous as Saturday’s then I’m in for some good times. Glorious sun, delicious food, pink champagne (lots of it) and a bride and groom that are a match made in heaven. Groans and moans from hung-over...

Accepting The Inevitable...

Tuesday 29th April 2008

Apparently my mother-in-law’s wisest words to her son were ‘to look at the mother first’. Yes it’s inevitable, as we get older, we’re all destined to end up like our mothers whether we like it or not... Thankfully for me (and the genes are strong) my mother’s in pretty good shape but that...

The Hunt Is On...

Thursday 17th April 2008

If money were no object I’d be a living breathing coat hanger for Philip Lim, and Miu Miu and if the red carpet was a popular pit stop then Lanvin and Marchesa too. But looking stylish isn’t all that difficult when all you need do is flash your black amex to have the...

My New Best Friend...

Monday 31st March 2008

Whilst March was as wintery as ever, I couldn’t see in the start of April (officially Spring) whilst still sporting my black croc number from what’s officially, now last season. So better late than never, I’ve finally found the new season bag I’ve been hunting for and popped the croc in the...

A Useful Piece Of Kit...

Monday 17th March 2008

When my husband and I got married we did our wedding list at Wedding Presents Direct – a wedding list company I’d highly recommend. Not only are the girls absolutely lovely (and full of advice – like how many gravy boats you’ll really need), not only do you get plied with champagne at...

Full Marks Hubby...

Thursday 6th March 2008

Hubby came up trumps on the wedding anniversary last year. After years of returned presents he’s finally learnt that when it comes to shopping for his nearest and dearest, his best bet is to ask or get a gift voucher. You can imagine my surprise when I woke up to breakfast in bed and...

I'm Not A Carry A Bag: The New Alternative

Monday 25th February 2008

I’ve confessed before to being one of the masses that queued for one of Anya’s 'I’m Not A Carry A Bag' bags but if the truth be known – as much as an alternative to a piece of orange plastic should be something we all own – mine is now sitting at the...

Fashion Week New Names...

Tuesday 12th February 2008

With fashion week in full swing (yes it’s that time again already) I’ve been having a hunt around to see what inspires. A couple of new names really stick out. Irwin & Jordan is one of them – we featured them in a Luxe Mail but if you missed it then do...

Wining & Dining This Valentine's...

Tuesday 29th January 2008

Now I love to be wined and dined as much as the next girl but with Valentine’s still a good couple of week’s away I was pretty surprised when my husband dropped me an email to say he’d booked The Painted Heron for 14th. The Painted Heron is my absolutely favourite (well, it’s a...

Arm Candy for the Uber Wealthy...

Monday 14th January 2008

The very idea of owning let alone wearing anything snakeskin has always made me feel somewhat queasy to say the least – my phobia’s so great that the very mention of them makes me lift my feet up off the floor... On a recent trip to Como I stumbled upon some fabulous CC...

Avoiding Leftovers...

Friday 4th January 2008

Whilst I have to confess that our tree looked as vulgar as ever this Christmas (an obscene abundance of presents) I did notice a difference in the volumes of wastage we generated and our attitudes to it. Not only were we more conscious than we have been in previous years about scooping up...

Mulled Wine & Christmas Candles...

Thursday 6th December 2007

Smell evokes the deepest of emotions and at this time of year nothing get’s you in the festive spirit quite like smell. Mulled wine at a drinks party; pine needles as you come in from the cold; the warming smell of mince pies – or if your household is anything like ours...

The Quest for Eco Living...

Monday 26th November 2007

The latest must-have in the quest for eco living? No it’s not fashion or food or anything quite as enticing; the latest must have for an organic and eco friendly lifestyle is natural cleaning products. Sexy. Made from the finest quality natural ingredients these new ranges of healthy household items get through grease and...

Guilt In The Sun...

Sunday 11th November 2007

After ten days of winter sun (my first holiday since SheerLuxe launched in February and a much needed break) I returned home to a barrage of over a thousand emails and more than just an inkling of guilt... Guilt not at the vast quantities of the dreamy and delicious seafood I’d devoured over the...

Get Set, Get Glamorous...

Wednesday 17th October 2007

When, on a hot sweaty day back in July I set off to the Per Una Christmas Eveningwear press day, I hadn’t envisaged what would be ahead. For a long while Per Una was the only profitable arm of Marks & Spencer’s offerings for womens fashion and whilst I’ve always understood why, it...

It's For Life...

Sunday 23rd September 2007

I’ve just got back home (well not quite just, but I have only just conjured up the energy to tear myself away from the sofa and my puppy and sit down at my computer) from my ninth wedding of the year. And fantastic fun as it was I’m delighted to say that I’ve got...

An Inspiration To Us All...

Tuesday 11th September 2007

The retail world and the beauty industry has lost a true great. Anita Roddick was an inspiration. She was a tireless pioneer of animal rights and she proved that beauty could be fabulous without being tested on animals. Ahead of her time, Anita was into all things green long before it had even occurred to...

Award Winning Denim...

Thursday 6th September 2007

I spend as much time as I can reading and consuming blogs; not only are they hugely entertaining but they’re also vastly informative. By now I’m hoping you’ve read our Domestic Goddess feature that’s written by Cherry aka the UK’s answer to Martha Stewart. Cherry is passionate about all things dedicated to home...

Try Green Living This Fortnight...

Sunday 2nd September 2007

If you’re into green living then you’ll know it’s the Soil Association’s Organic Fortnight from 1st-16th September. This year they’re calling on the nation to 'Wake up to an Organic Breakfast'. Retailers, brands and restaurants are promoting their organic breakfast items, encouraging everyone to try an organic breakfast during the Fortnight. At Abel & Cole...

My little Mouse...

Thursday 23rd August 2007

For those of you that have been following my pooch hunt I thought you might be interested to know that I’ve finally got one! Yes little Mouse (as named by her breeder but it’s so divine we didn’t think for a second about changing it) is an absolute honey. I say that, after less than...

Miller Sisters Making Their Mark...

Monday 6th August 2007

So they’re both blonde, beautiful, successful and they’ve both got great names. If you read Sunday Times Style (if you didn’t then why not?!) or ES magazine over the weekend then you’ll know who I’m talking about because you won’t have failed to notice the beautiful Miller sisters gracing the front covers. Not only has...

My Perfect Pup...

Monday 16th July 2007

You might know by now that I’m mad about pooches. At a recent family lunch party I spent more time in the dog pen with the Spaniel puppies then I did catching up with cousins. When it came to leaving, I popped a pup in my bag just to test the waters and...

An Alternative Take On Picnicking...

Wednesday 4th July 2007

I’ve never quite understood why people always go away for their summer holidays in July and August (by people I’m referring to those that don’t have children). Why you’d want to hit the airport and share the beach with all your fellow Brits is totally beyond me. During the summer months I’m much happier...

My Kind of Luxury...

Friday 8th June 2007

Rumour has it David Beckham wears a new pair of boxer shorts every day. At a dinner party last night, a girlfriend said she’d love that (clean panties in her case that is, not boxers) if money was no object. For me it would be a chauffeur all day every day,...

The Madness of Celebrity...

Monday 21st May 2007

The other morning I was flicking through a magazine and I literally choked on my Diet Coke when I read that Danielle Steel was launching her own fragrance. I mean come on, first Cliff Richard, then Jade Goody and now Danielle Steel. I can’t decide which is worse. It’s as...

Moss for Topshop - it's on my mind...

Monday 30th April 2007

I’m sorry to say that I’m being a bit indecisive. At least I think I am. I just can’t quite make up my mind about Kate Moss’ collection for Topshop and whether I rate it or not, let alone whether I agree with it or not. What is it about high street...

The Chance to Fly in Real Style...

Wednesday 28th March 2007

My two greatest fears in life are snakes and planes so when the film Snakes on A Plane came out I wasn’t one of the ones queuing to see it. The trailer itself was enough to make me cower in fear. I’m so terrified of snakes in fact that I spent my four days...

Brain Food...

Wednesday 7th March 2007

Why is it that when faced with the munchies on a long car journey, whilst out shopping or during the day at work, it’s always crisps and chocolate that are at arms length? It’s no wonder that this country has got a serious obesity problem when the only snacks that you can readily...

Fairtrade Fortnight. Are you doing your bit?

Monday 26th February 2007

Fairtrade seems to be the word on everyone’s lips at the moment and we keep being told that various retailers from Topshop to Anyahindmarch are supporting the issue. The now annual Fairtrade Fortnight starts today (26th February to 11th March) and if you keep hearing the word ‘fairtrade’ but don’t really know...

Here we are at last...

Monday 12th February 2007

So finally we’ve made it, it’s been quite a journey so far: a lot of late nights, very few weekends, an extremely dedicated web programmer, an even more patient husband and generally a lot of support and encouragement along the way. Since we started, nearly 15 months ago, the enthusiasm for the Sheer...

For the man who has it all...

Monday 4th December 2006

The distinguished gentleman tends to have it all, which makes present buying at Christmas, when one has a list as long as one's arm of in-laws, second cousins and step aunts to buy presents for too, rather tricky and time consuming to get right. So, to whom does one turn to to...

Precious skin...

Thursday 30th November 2006

If you aren't sensible enough to have realised it already, your skin is precious and it needs looking after. Not just because it's our bodies largest organ but because it's all we have and however much botox you may plan on having, it's never quite the same as naturally healthy skin. Only after...

A hamper to remember...

Tuesday 28th November 2006

There are some people for whom buying a Christmas present is virtually impossible. They're either one of those people who just buy what they want as and when they want it (ie.men) or they're just so d*mn fussy that you daren't buy them anything for fear of getting it wrong. Hampers are...

The perfect party dress...

Friday 24th November 2006

Those Christmas parties are filling up the diary and the worry and dilemma of what to wear just won't seem to go away. But there's nothing better to get you in the party mood than a new dress. You don't need me to tell you that we should all have a couple of Little...

Knitting needles to the ready...

Thursday 16th November 2006

In the last couple of years, knitting has made a come back. Even fashion icon Sarah Jessica Parker, who was photographed knitting a little jumper for her son on set in between filming , has embraced the trend. But I for one am no knitter - I haven't got the patience nor the inclination...

Doctor Doctor...

Tuesday 14th November 2006

We've got Dr Brandt, Dr Hauschka, Dr Sebagh and NV Perricone MD to name but a few of the doctors, dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons who have bought out their own skincare brands of late. The latest is Steven Victor MD, a well respected Manhattenite dermatologist whose brand, I am told, is not just another...

Style that doesn't scrimp on comfort...

Thursday 9th November 2006

There seems to be a mad rush of retailers desperately trying to get their ecommerce facilities up and running on their websites in time to benefit from Christmas trading. It's not really surprising considering that most of them do about a third of their annual sales over the festive period. Not that I'm complaining...

Your space...

Tuesday 7th November 2006

My space, your space, the only space that one can really call one's own is one's bedroom. Everywhere else seems overrun with everyone else's clutter. Your bedroom should be your sanctuary - a place that's calm and peaceful - in short, your haven. Create this serene ambiance by keeping the decor simple. Stick...

Feed your footwear fetish...

Thursday 2nd November 2006

Now listen up, J-I-M-M-Y C-H-O-O has opened its very own eboutique! Tamara Mellon and her team have wised up to the benefit that ecommerce can make to their bottom line and in doing so, have set the standard for the kind of global luxury retailers that can now sell their wares, without compromising...

Oh my goodness, it's cake...

Tuesday 31st October 2006

What could be better than delicious hand-made fairy cakes with mouth-watering icing, beautifully packaged and delivered direct to your door? The answer: not a lot. For Goodness Cake have come up with a wonderfully novel idea - not that flowers and champagne aren't lovely (and always gratefully accepted!!!) but these pretty little fairy...

A new destination for jewellery...

Thursday 26th October 2006

It is to Natalie Massenet that we owe our thanks for single handedly pioneering the creation of the online boutique. When she set up Net-a-porter.com in 2000 people thought she was mad - who in their right mind would want to spend huge amounts of money on luxury goods without being able...

Let their imaginations run wild...

Tuesday 24th October 2006

I remember when I was about five years old putting on a play in a friend's playroom in Wales and charging our parents £1 a ticket to come and watch and another 50p for a program. Thank goodness for J R Rowling and Harry Potter, without which, computer games might have further cannibalised...

Lingerie to lust after...

Thursday 21st September 2006

There's nothing to make one feel better than brand new lingerie and if you love lingerie then you'll love everything about Lady Barbarella.com - an online store full of luxuriously tantalising lingerie in sumptuous fabrics and a delicious palette of colours that'll make any woman feel sexy. Browse the store by item (bra's, briefs,...

Even your pantry need be chic...

Tuesday 19th September 2006

I never though I'd be the kind of person to get excited about anything utility, especially not a dustpan and brush (!) but I have to say that I've recently found myself having such feelings about such products! It all happened when I discovered The Linen Works.com - a wonderful online store...

The most magic of mushrooms...

Thursday 14th September 2006

I just love mushrooms. Be it in a salad, a risotto, a Thai or a curry - on a restaurant menu I'm always drawn to them. But cooking with bog standard mushrooms from the supermarket never seems to have the same effect (probably also due to the fact that I'm not the...

Give a dog a lifestyle...

Tuesday 12th September 2006

I'm absolutely mad about dogs (so much so that my screen saver is of a Shitzu and a Westie that aren't even mine!) and it seems I'm not alone. I was stunned to read the other day that pet accessories and general pet paraphernalia is one of the fastest growing retail categories...

It's all in a name...

Thursday 7th September 2006

Babington House isn't just one of the most fabulous hotels in the English countryside, but it's also home to the original Cowshed Spa. From the Cowshed Spa comes a health and beauty range that I adore for its quirkiness - think Cowshed products and you think mad cow (!) - all the...

Put your round toe forward...

Tuesday 5th September 2006

I'm a disciple of the Imelda Marcos school of thought - a woman can never have too many shoes. In fact, someone once said that a great pair of party shoes has a shelf life of about seven outings, and I must say I'm inclined to agree - after seven outings they begin...

Self tan with a difference...

Thursday 31st August 2006

According to Trinny and Susannah, women shouldn't wear self tan - however, I'm afraid I don't agree. Granted, there's a fine line between the tangoed look, as sported by many a WAG, and the natural look, but for those of us that are naturally rather pale, pasty and dull in skin tone -...

Snug as a bug in a rug...

Tuesday 29th August 2006

After a bath before bedtime or a trip to the beach, there's nothing more angelic than little ones, wrapped in the softest and snuggliest of towelling robes, towelling clothes and ponchos, to keep them feeling warm, comforted and cosy, and looking divine. For a really special robe, head to Aspen and Brown. White, hooded...

Grey needn

Thursday 24th August 2006

It can be pretty hard to focus on one's winter wardrobe in August but somehow at the moment, it isn't. The last few days have been grey and miserable. I felt thoroughly fed up when I got home last night, until that was, I noticed the new Autumn / Winter Toast catalogue that...

Roses are right...

Tuesday 22nd August 2006

If you ask me, roses can be both the most fabulous and the most disappointing of flowers - and there's a pretty big difference between what is and what isn't a beautiful rose. Romantic as they can be, if you don't buy them well, they run the risk of looking cheap and...

Spread a little happiness...

Friday 18th August 2006

I think I can safely say that I'm one of the most difficult people to buy a present for - for birthdays my girlfriends always join up to buy each other something special but when it came to my turn last year, one of them secretly asked me for a list of things...

Romance on the open road...

Wednesday 16th August 2006

Oliver Sweeney's story is an endearing one. He had a humble upbringing in Leicester from where he moved to London securing a job as a shop-boy in a gentleman's cobblers in the West End. Rising through the ranks, Oliver went on to become a specialist in the luxury footwear and accessories arena. Oliver...

Join in the yellow gold fever...

Friday 11th August 2006

Growing up, I was convinced that yellow gold jewellery was utterly passé and that I'd be wearing silver for all time. But oh how the past season has proved me wrong (!) with yellow gold flooding the accessories market - from horns and shark tooths to discs and coins....its all been available on...

How maternity clothes have Blossomed...

Tuesday 8th August 2006

I have distinct memories of my mother pregnant with my little brother, dressed in what could only be described as a floral catastrophe - making her look like she was nine months pregnant when she was only four! These unflattering creations usually came from somewhere like Laura Ashley or some rather grotty second...

The delights of Daylesford Organic will make your mouth water...

Tuesday 8th August 2006

For food that is fresh, seasonal, sustainable and organic, I really recommend you visit Daylesford Organic.com. There are vegetables fresh from their kitchen gardens, award winning handmade cheeses from their organic creamery; breads, cakes, pastries and biscuits from their organic bakery; fresh foods from their chefs in the kitchens; and fresh meat...

Your key piece this summer...

Tuesday 8th August 2006

Kaftans are an absolute must for your summer capsule wardrobe. From the city to the beach, St Tropez to St Barts, there's nothing better to throw over your bikini when you're off for lunch, or teamed, Ã la Liz, with white trousers for an evening of cocktails and candlelight. It's to Allegra Hicks...

Luggage to be seen with...

Wednesday 26th July 2006

Quality luggage is a good investment, not only will it last you for years, but it often actually gets better with age (especially if its got Louis Vuitton on the label!), and no one wants to be greeted by their host and hostess for the weekend with a plethora of old tennis bags...

Wrinkle free tanning...well, almost.

Tuesday 25th July 2006

Whilst the notion of anti-aging sun care might seem like a contradiction in terms and there are lots of new products around claiming to have such formulas, it's simple, protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun, and you will slow down the effects of aging. One sure way to get wrinkles is...

Picnic paraphernalia that wont let the side down...

Tuesday 25th July 2006

For me, you really can't beat an English summer's day, a long leisurely picnic and a nice bottle of rosé. But if there's one thing you should do, it's make sure you have decent picnic paraphernalia. Mouldy old rugs with a bit of last year's egg mayonnaise stuck to them won't do. Ensure you...

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