Credit Buy: Olympia Le Tan x Mr Men

The leader of the coolest book club in town, Parisian designer Olympia Le Tan, has recently paid homage to Roger Hargreave’s 'Mister Men' series and I have never coveted one of her designs more. TOO CUTE! 

 In particular, the ‘Little Mix Chatterbox,’ clutch (RRP. £630.00), with its hand embroidery and Liberty-print lining, could not be more perfect for ol’TLC herself!  Wear with jeans and a simple jumper (I am wearing Enlist's Isabella Kimono Knit) and let this little one do aaall the talking. 

TLC LOVES... OLYMPIA LE TAN

Photography: Ella Sadika

Bloom & Wild Tiny Tree Pop-Up at Boxpark

Just when I was wondering how I would fit a little festive cheer into my small loft-style flat, let alone drag said cheer up four flights of stairs, the flower delivery peeps at Bloom & Wild came to my rescue. Their little elves (I imagine) posted one of their 40cm tall Tiny Trees through my letter box last week and solved my current Christmas conundrum.

HOW Bloom & Wild manage to fit a miniature pine tree, a waterproof collapsible pot, a box of ‘ickle baubles and a string of fairy lights in a letter-box friendly parcel I will never know, but magically they can. 

Despite being equipped with everything I needed to style my tree and infuse some Christmas spirit into my apartment, I decided to personalise my tree with some H&M Home Gold Pineapple Ornaments (£6.99 for two), some golden giraffe I found on Etsy and my orange kikoy - I guess you can take the girl outta Africa…!  

The results? The cutest touch of home away from home, and I couldn’t be happier when I return each evening to see the sparkling ornaments by my fireplace.

Today Bloom & Wild are launching their ‘Tiny Tree’ pop-up in Shoreditch’s Boxpark where you can not only handpick your own adorably pint-sized tree (priced between £25.00-£33.00), but also stock up on lots of cute decorations to dress it up. My own Africa inspired tree will also be on display until it closes on Sunday.

Bloom & Wild at Boxpark (Tues 6th – Sun 11th December 2016)
Boxpark, 2-10 Bethnal Green Road, London, E1 6GY

In collaboration with BLOOM & WILD

TLC Vacation: 24 Hours in Munich with BMW

Last month I went on what I can only describe as some sort of Bavarian Bonanza… 24 hours in Munich with BMW. Despite the time limitations, and the city being brim-full with Oktoberfesting revellers, I was surprised at just how much of Munich I managed to explore. 

After arriving in Munich I swiftly checked into the Sofitel Bayerpost, a beyond large, heritage-listed Italian Renaissance building that once served as Munich’s central post office right in the centre of the city.  After a bite to eat at the hotel, I was taken for a guided tour of the BMW Museum and BMW Welt.  Founded in 1973, and expanded in 2008, these two attractions continue to be really popular amongst tourists.

It was really illuminating learning about the history and future of the German vehicle manufacturing brand, and I was severely dazzled by their 125 most valuable automobiles and motorcycles.

The museum is also peppered with brightly coloured MINI Coopers, which are only my favourite cars EVER, and this visit only but fuelled the flame… I need one… Or two… I digress… Basically, car aficionado or not, this is a really entertaining and interesting experience and a great way to spend an afternoon in Munich.

Hilariously, I then got to experience the other great way to spend an afternoon in Munich… Yup. Oktoberfest! 

Donning my finest dirndl (shop similar HERE), which adorably said ‘to my dear’ on it, I made my way, like 6 MILLION other people did over the course of the 16-day festival, to one of the jam-packed Oktoberfest tents owned by Munich’s six breweries; Paulaner, Spaten, Hacker-Pschorr, Augustiner, Hofbräu and Löwenbräu.  Each tent sits around 1000-8500 people and are to be found amidst a massive village of Bavarian-style fun and games (think, Winter Wonderland just bigger and drunker…) 

Overflowing frothy beer arrived at our table, and soon we were clinking our one litre sized mugs with our neighbours (everyone is joyfully over friendly), and singing along to the thigh-slapping oompah music where we could (‘Country Roads’ was a particular favourite!)  An astounding 7.5 million litres of beer are consumed over the 16 days (that’s 3 Olympic sized pools.) I’m happy to say, I contributed to around a whooooole ¼ of those litres. LAD. 

Food wise, this is not a gastro haven.  I stuck to the GIANT German pretzels (delicious) and the bunches of radishes which were being quite randomly passed around.  Being a vegetarian, I steered away from the popular Bavarian pork knuckles, white sausages, oxen dishes and grilled chicken, and the copious burger stands to be found outside the beer tents.  

DO:  Pay attention to how you tie your Dirndl… If the bow is tied on the right side, it will be perceived that you are a taken woman, but if tied to your left, it will suggest you are single and ready to miiiingle.

DO: Wear flat shoes, and not particularly special ones - they will likely be covered in beer.  I ran into town to buy some cheapie Zara Velvet Loafers when I realised my heels would be both uncomfortable, and more than likely trashed. 

DON’T:  Put a foot wrong… Or in this case, on the table! If you do this you will be expected, in front of some 5000-8000 chanting spectators to neck your entire beer. Expect aforementioned 5000-8000 people to boo quite ruthlessly if you are incapable of such feat!

I left Oktoberfest after dark via Tuk Tuk where I whizzed around, enjoying a fast paced tour of the city, all in search of a cocktail… A LOT of fun, but I’m still more Pina Colada than Pint! 

TLC ON TOUR... MUNICH SUITCASE:

(Click on the items below for their direct links)

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

#OOTD: 28.11.16

In celebration of her tenth birthday, Donna Ida created the dungarees of my dreams; the Eliza’s!  Skinny, relaxed and in a coated plum jam colour (loves me some burgundy at this time of the year!) these dunga’s are perfect for my day-to-night lifestyle, pairing them with a cashmere jumper and trainers during the day, and a lacey top, heels and lipstick (I recommend Tom Ford’s ‘Bruised Plum’) by night. Another total Donna Ida hit, which also just so happen to match my Samburu Trust beaded ankles! Clearly meant to be!

Donna Ida Eliza Dungarees in Coated Plum Jam (RRP. £210.00)

I took my Eliza’s for a wee spin around ma’hood, wearing the new metallic threaded Bella Freud 1970 Instarsia Sweater (think, traditional Bella, but after hours) and my new, mini cross-body Meli Melo Rosalina, inspired by Sicily’s traditional wicker baskets - I'm obsessed. 

Meli Melo’s woven leather Rosalia collection come in a variety of shapes and colours (see full collection HERE) and I ummmed and aahhed over the light tan and the black in the mini size for over fortnight, visiting the store on Portobello around five or six times… I finally decided on the light tan and haven’t looked back since. Not only did I not own any bag in this colour, but I love how well it compliments the darker clothing I am emanating more towards, now I’m preparing for hibernation!

Shop TLC's Look...

(Click on the items for direct links)

Photography: Ella Sadika

Black Friday and Cyber Weekend Discount Codes 2016

Like all the best American things (Cronuts.. Ryan Gosling, the Gilmore Girls) ‘Black Friday’ and ‘Cyber Weekend’ has also been welcomed onto our fine British shores with gusto.  With UK retailers dicing and slicing their prices, shoppers on this side of the pond are expected to spend an overall £3 billion this weekend… LUCKILY, its not all elbows at the Oxford Street ready, or elbows at Westfield dawn, as you can enjoy the online discounts from the comfort of your own home whilst enjoying a cuppa and 'Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life,' out on Netflix today! Hallelujah!  

Here are the links and codes you need, with a few bargainous suggestions from me…

#TLCForHer

ASOS
20% off with code: GOGOGO

TOPSHOP
Up to 70% off

RIVER ISLAND
UK - 50% off selected stock

MANGO
20% off everything all weekend with code: BLACK
 

MISS SELFRIDGE
Up to 50% off everything

MISSOMA
30% off all lines, an additional 30% off older lines from 27th November

& OTHER STORIES
50% off selected stock (25th-27th November)

ACCESSORIZE
25% off, 30% off selected bags

LK BENNETT
20% off

HUSH
25 % off 25 items

WHISTLES
25% off selected lines

LARSSON & JENNINGS
15% off with code: LG15

REVOLVE
Up to 50% off

URBAN OUTFITTERS
Buy one get one 50% off

ME & EM
25% off Winter Warrmers

SHOPBOP.COM
25% off with code: GOBIG16

SELFRIDGES
20% off
10% off beauty & fragrance with code: SELFCCE

HARRODS
30% off luxury womenswear brands  

HARVEY NICHOLS
25% off fashion, 15% off beauty

MONICA VINADER
30% off

THE OUTNET
up to 85% off selected brands

 STYLE.COM
20% off with code: STYLE20

KURT GEIGER
20% off online & In store

SWEATY BETTY
20% off worldwide

OFFICE
20% off with code: WONDER

THE BODY SHOP
40% off with code: 19805

UGG
20% off

SEPHORA
20% off worldwide

 

#TLCForHim

MR PORTER
30% off selected styles

TOPMAN
Up to 50% off selected lines

ASOS
20% off with code: GOGOGO

 

#TLCForHome

MARKS & SPENCER
Up to 50% off selected lines from home, beauty, sleepwear, lingerie, toys & books

JOHN LEWIS
Competitor price match

SELFRIDGES
20% off (Restrictions apply)

ANTHROPOLOGIE
20% off with code: GIFT

MADE.COM
FREE delivery in UK & EU

WEST ELM
Up to 30% off with code: SAVENOW

GRAY MALIN
30% off ALL prints with code TURKEY30 (includes framing for US orders)

Tatler's Little Black Book Party with Polo Ralph Lauren

A few days before Tatler’s annual Little Black Book Party, I visited Polo Ralph Lauren’s gorgeous new Regent Street Store for a Styling Session with a Polo stylist.  Having an edit already curated for me in my changing room was amazing, and after a glass of champagne and a catch up with some of my fellow Polo Ralph Lauren-clad party goers, we were all interviewed on dating by Tatler’s Sophia Money-Coutts… 

Dressed head to toe in Polo Ralph Lauren I attended the party at the twinkly lit Ours Restaurant on the Old Brompton Road later that week.  Revellers (including Niomi Smart, the Watson to my Sherlock, below) enjoyed many a Beluga Vodka cocktail and maaaany a Gin Mare G&T…

Speaking of the vodka and the gin, thankfully all guests left with a pair of Polo Ralph Lauren sunglasses, which I’m sure proved all too necessary the next morning by everyone… Ouch!

Thank you Tatler for naming me, alongside Lady Violet and Lady Alice Manners, Oliver Proudlock and Tash Oakley, as one of the Best Dressed of the night (HERE).

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A #TLCxAuree interview with The London Chatter

The team at Auree recently interviewed me about our Tembo Collection collaboration in support of For Rangers, and why it was a cause so close to my heart.  I thought I would also share the answers with you here on TLC…  

‘We are excited to be collaborating with Kelly Eastwood on our first charity collection. As major advocates of travel, flair and colour – we’ve long been fans of The London Chatter, which is why its been a delight to create The Tembo Collection to raise money and awareness in the fight against Elephant poaching.  So a second first for The Auree Journal, we thought a good chance for a cuppa and a Q+A.  Move over Parky...' 

What was it like to grow up in Africa and how has it influenced you?

It was really magical; the animals, the epic landscapes, the beautiful beaches, the amazing mix of cultures. From an early age I was always aware of ‘the bigger picture’ and as such, however exciting and frivolous the whirlwind I sometimes find myself in, I always feel pretty grounded.

Tell us how the collaboration with Auree came about?

Having worn a personalised Auree bracelet rather religiously for about a year before finally meeting Amelia, we decided to meet for breakfast so I could learn more about the brand. It became apparent we both wanted to do a charity collection, and over avocado and eggs we not only decided to collaborate, but had already started sketching designs before the bill had even arrived. Amelia was very supportive over my plea to support the conservation efforts for elephants in Africa, a huge passion of mine. We agreed that neither myself or Auree would make a bean out of the collaboration, with all profits going directly to For Rangers, a wonderful campaign started by friends of mine back home.

How did your Kenyan roots inspire the Tembo collection?

Since I was a child, I’ve always been absolutely in awe of elephants; rather than Nellie the Elephant it was Kelly the Elephant!  As well as going on safari regularly, I would frequently visit the orphaned ele’s at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust near where I grew up in Nairobi, which allowed me from an early age to be acutely aware of the heartbreaking effects of poaching. As I’ve got older, many of my friends now work in conservation, and I’ve learnt so much more through them.

I love Maasai beads and the design of our bracelets were inspired by the single white Maasai bead bracelet I usually wear. The beads are so synonymous with the tribal, nomadic cultures back in Kenya, that it seemed an obvious element to incorporate into the jewellery, through the textured circular bead effect. I also now have permanent Maasai beading around my ankles, put on by the Samburu mamas at Ol Malo, a family-run ranch in Laikipia, which I regularly flaunted at London Fashion Week – paired with some good old Jimmy Choos naturally!

You are a frequent wildlife campaigner, what attracts you most about the important work For Rangers and Tusk carry out?

I think it’s the urgency, and the respect. Make no mistake, this is ultimately a war – a battle to save some of the most iconic wildlife before it’s too late, and it’s the rangers who are on the front line of this fight, daily risking their lives for these animals.  For this reason, they deserve our recognition and support. Earlier this year I visited Kenya’s beautiful Lewa conservancy, where I saw Edward Ndiritu (who was awarded with Tusk’s inaugural Wildlife Ranger Award, presented by Prince William in 2015) and his team awarded with silver pins of honor for their outstanding work, and the pride was tangible. 

For Rangers is a really small, grass roots campaign, with no overhead costs. It’s headed by passionate, knowledgeable people who have taken on extraordinary challenges to raise both money and awareness (including the Marathon de Sable and the Peruvian Jungle Run). Given that I’m hardly renowned for my athleticism (I’ve not moved quicker than a strut since the mid-90’s), I thought I would be better suited to help the cause accessorising not exercising…!

What has been your most memorable experience in Africa?

I’m having a stream of flashbacks of both the most exhilarating and also peaceful moments. Aside from my sister’s week long beach wedding near our home, and regularly visiting the Giraffe Manor’s endangered Rothschild giraffe after school when I was young, I would say anytime I’ve been lucky enough to go on safari. Watching a sensational African sunset, G&T in hand (obviously), with that buzz of wildlife around you, is beyond humbling, and for me, completely calming

What are your little black book entries and insider advice for anyone looking to visit Kenya?
 

in Nairobi. If you’re not staying as a guest at this beautiful house, I would definitely try and book in advance to have afternoon tea there amongst the endangered Rothschild giraffe that live at the sanctuary.  I would obviously recommend you go on safari to enjoy the exceptional wildlife we’re so desperately trying to preserve, and Richard’s Camp in the Maasai Mara is really great fun. For unforgettable experiences with the nomadic Samburu communities, both Ol Malo and Sasaab offer unbeatable opportunities.  I would also head to the coast. Some of Kenya’s long, white sandy beaches are rated amongst the best in the world. Watamu, a pristine marine reserve, is perfect for a family holiday, and not too far from Mombasa, where you can spend an evening sailing along the twinkling lit coast on the Tamarind Dhow. 

What are your must have items that you pack in your suitcase for a trip to Kenya?

Inside my vintage-style Brics Suitcase, I always carry my Ali Lamu safari bag so I can decant and travel light from within Kenya at a moment’s notice.  A good pair of Penelope Chilvers safari boots are imperative, and I love my massive Winser London massive cashmere for both the airplane and for enveloping myself in on those chilly early morning game drives on Safari. When the suns up, I’m always prepared with a good straw trilby from Jess Collett Milliner, my tortoiseshell Taylor Morris Zero sunglasses, a bikini or two from Beach Cafe, a Pitusa kaftan, my Sisley Paris Factor 50 and a kikoi bought locally from a beach stall. Rae Feather does some great personalised beach baskets and I throw everything haphazardly into one of those.

Tell us about your most treasured piece of jewellery and the story behind it.

A Victorian pearl and sapphire heart-shaped locket in the shape of a heart. My childhood best friend passed away when we were eighteen, and her mother gave it to me. There are flowers in the the back of it which my friend pressed and helped put in there when she was four. It’s my treasure of treasures.

What do you love most about your job?

In or out of London, I love the variety of the people I meet in such different fields, and being witness to such differing creativity. This platform has not only given me the ability to talk about and share the things I love, but also to champion the causes that are close to my heart, which is something I really focus on.

How would you describe your personal style?

Always colourful, always with lipstick (Tom Ford’s Plum Lush) and always with a touch of leopard print.

By Day: Topshop boyfriend jeans, Rose Rankin sneakers, over sized Boden linen shirts and Chinti and Parker cashmere (I particularly love their new Miffy collaboration – too cute!) I carry all my work and laptop in the tortoiseshell Aspinal of London Editor’s Bag – it’s so chic and even charges my phone – next level!

By Night: Jimmy Choo heels or L.K Bennett boots, Hill & Friends Tweency bag, and a swooshing Matthew Williamson dress. A blow dry or ethereal braids by Clo and Flo ups my glam game considerably.

What are your style tips for wearing jewellery?

I love stacking and mixing metals, which is why I particularly love the Tembo Collection – you can mix and match the colours and stack them together which looks great, yet still unfussy.

Shop the entire Tembo Collecton HERE.

#TLCxAuree

The Tembo Collection Launch at Bronte

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Last month I hosted a blogger’s breakfast at Bronte to launch The Tembo Collection (which I wrote about in detail HERE), my seven piece, Masai bead inspired bracelet collaboration with Auree Jewellery.

100% of all profits from the sales of these bracelets will go to For Rangers, a campaign in conjunction with Tusk, which directly helps the brave heroes on the front line of conservation in Africa, who risk their lives daily to protect elephants and other endangered wildlife from extinction.

Above:  With Will Carmichael, one of the founders of Auree Jewellery, outside Bronte on the Strand.

I knew the quickest and most effective way to to spread the good word far and wide, was to gather a group of my most talented digital buddies, and over a breakfast feast of pancakes and avocado on toast (natch), ask them for their help in raising some vital awareness.  Niomi Smart, Liv Purvis, Peony Lim, Emma Bates, Sarah Mikaela and Juliet Angus were amongst the 22 gorgeous ladies who arrived at Bronte, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, and ready to learn more about the collaboration and its goal. 

I knew, having previously visited Bronte for a breakfast meeting earlier in the year and fan-girled over the pretty pink Tom Dixon designed breakfast bar and copper light fixtures, that it was the exact place I wished to have the #TLCxAuree breakfast, and the team there could not have been more accommodating.

The tables were adorned with gorgeous wild flowers arranged by Maua London, and each guest had a personalised engraved bracelet waiting at their place, each with a calligraphy label by Sophia Vaughn. 

View fullsize

After speaking to everyone about the campaign, and why it one so close to my heart, I showed everyone a short video (below) that I knew would speak volumes louder than I could ever convey. 

“The statistics are unbearable, over a thousand rangers have been killed in the line of duty since 2003. By joining forces with Auree Jewellery and The London Chatter we hope to make a difference, raising funds to ensure that rangers are enabled with good-quality equipment, training and general welfare, including support for the families of rangers killed or injured in the line of duty. These are the men that are risking their lives to save Africa’s iconic species – it is dangerous, tough and thankless work and we must do all we can to help them.”  Sam Taylor, Founder of For Rangers.

By buying these bracelets (£50.00 - £140.00) you will directly be helping to protect elephants across Africa… Now THAT is some guilt free shopping, people! 

www.aureejewellery.com

Shop TLC's Look...

(Click on the items for direct links)

Photography:  Ella Sadika

#OOTD: 01.11.16

I think you miiiight have noticed by now, I’m not particularly someone who shies away from a little colour. I am not saying I don’t have my more monochromatic, Skandi-inspired moments, but day to day, colour is what I’m drawn to and it makes me feel brighter and happier.

I love Autumn with its greying skies and flame red and crimson leaves scattering the pavement and parks.  Year after year, the colours I'm more inclined to wear during this season have an overtly British feel to them; mustard, teal and burgundy.  I also this year have been really fond of magenta – a little more vibrant and warm than burgundy but goes equally as well with my other favourites. 

This ASOS cropped-sleeve, fluffy knit encourages me to feel as energetic as it looks, and matches perfectly with my favourite Tom Ford lipstick, ‘Plum Lush.’  Its ruffled neckline is totally on trend and the metallic lined frills act as its own accessory so I only needed to stack some Monica Vinader Signature Bangles.

This peacock teal Fran Coat from L.K Bennett is a total sensation!  The soft wool and cashmere coat literally envelopes you like a cosy dressing gown, and together with the colour-popping magenta, a good pair of Citizens of Humanity dark blue skinny jeans (oh, and a random backdrop of burnt orange and pale gold leaves, no less) guarantees to pack a mean Autumn punch.

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Photography: Ella Sadika