Now back to sheer!

I wasn't feeling 100%, so before meeting my friends I took myself off to Harrods Shoe Heaven. A little bird had told me some new shoes were in. Yes, but that little bird wasn't anyone that looks after me… So nearly a wasted visit. Nearly in so much as nothing I really wanted, but I did find out the date of the pre-sale. Except I've decided that although I can always find something to buy, this time (with so many great styles coming in mid-January) I will wait. Or at least try to. Not too sure that really is a option but you never know. And then, what do you know, I felt better! Must be clearer air on the 5th floor...

I went to a great party. The hostess with great legs (really great legs), covered them in fine, black, sheer tights to finish off a shortish, black, sequinned loose dress and high-heeled pixie boot outfit. I wish!

Someone mentioned sheer tights a while ago. I can't remember the last time I wore them but for me, if wearing a skirt above the knee and one is over 21, then this or a tight or stocking (whatever denier) has to be the way to go. No bare thighs on show please! But the reason I mention this party was the abundance of leather legs. I think now I've written it, it doesn't matter. Or does it? I know I've touched this subject before but How Old Is Too Old? As in "am I too old?" I'm not really one for a tight trouser of any kind. Have never worn leggings, jeggings or skinny jeans. Actually that’s not quite true - I did buy a pair of skinny jeans, wore them once, had a meal and could never get into them again! So gave them to my 20-year old niece! And now leather legs… Hmmmm, probably not. As luck would have it, I just tried some on and happy to say the answer is still No. Mutton dressed as lamb, very important to recognise this!

Jewellery news! For eight years (to be precise) I've had a large natural pearl necklace sitting in my safe. Actually it's part of a demi-parure that my ex-husband bought, me but I digress. I hardly ever wore it until I had the idea of having it restrung. And what do you know - I'm loving it! Just must remember to not spray perfume whilst wearing it. But now I'm thinking of having the big single pearl earrings reset as well, and my everyday diamonds! This has really started something! Well, if all it takes is a fresh view then why not!? I sized up  a ring from my third figure to my index finger - love that too! I may even reset my diamond rivière…

Have discovered one of the best (OK not so new, but new to me) restaurants in town. Milos in Lower Regent Street. Great size, great ambience, great food and in future that will be my restaurant of choice.

As the year comes to an end, so it seems we may be heralding the end of the bi-yearly Fashion Collections as we know them. Social media it seems is causing havoc with fashion. Or more accurately the “See Now Buy" brigade has landed. No one wants to wait anymore! For anything. Fast Fashion has a lot to answer for. What they're going to do and how is not my problem, but maybe one day soon we'll look back at magazines (I'm a bit hooked on Pinterest) like we look at letters as a thing of the past. Nostalgic for the feel of paper. But hold on a moment - Francine (before you sign the death warrant!) isn't Vinyl staging a comeback? Yes, and I'm going to look for a record player with a cassette player and Bluetooth and all the other modern technology. So all is not lost, the equilibrium of life will probably not be steamrollered into "Now" and waiting will not become a thing of the past…

Have wonderful holidays!!

And take the time till my next (read: New Year) post to revisit some of your favourites from the past, then the wait will seem invisible!

Happy Shopping

F   XX


PS: Now is the time to start thinking about all those new year resolutions that come  January 1 we can put into practise to forget by January 7 .

...dressed as a whole Roast Dinner

Winter White and Clingfilm ( or Francine on a Night Out... probably)

I was papped (as in a Style photographer shot me in Sloane Street).

I don't know if I told you about my M&S sale find - £20! The sludge green, paisley, size 24 dress with long sleeves that had been taken in twice (the alterations cost more than the dress) over my winter white trousers. It's a complete winner and with my dark green mink jacket balanced on my shoulders - need I say more?! So this morning, debuting my new suit I put on black ankle socks with black suede shoes. This look resembles the high-heeled version of the pixie boots but without the price tag. And what do you know? I loved the look! Embracing all these new looks is such fun and I wholeheartedly recommend trying all this.

Seems many of you agree with the divorce dressing and whether husband- or wallet-hunting, these women definitely exist.

Am I the only one who hates looking at clothes on the web? A small thumbprint of a cardigan or a dress. That's just not what you want. Please, please stop. If I want to see clothes (and this I like doing - hence my blog) I'll go and see them in a shop. But now, as soon as you visit a site they grab your email and loads of other people join in the hunt for shoppers. I'm sick to the point where I don't want to turn on my phone or check my email. "Fashion Harassment" I'm calling it, and now on Facebook too. And obviously I click the links on Vogue or Harpers - just more pictures. Who knows - maybe one day soon there'll be another picture of Moi! You can keep it to yourself if you see it first.

So, good to my word, as soon as I'd picked up the intrepid Mrs Shiffer (my Mother to you and I) from Kings Cross, off we went to view some dresses for next year. Well I tried with the dark blue brocade cocktail. It could have worked on someone else. Tried on a black version. No. Then they bought out a winter white, long, bias cut gown. With the blonde hair and a huge smile that had invaded my face - it was so beautiful! Thinking. Definitely thinking... Imagine bias cut cream or Winter White or whatever you want to call it. It's so wonderful and of course it just couldn't be the same price as the blue could it? I leave you to figure that out…

Just watched Micheal Kors pre-fall 2016 show. What a clever man! Or should I say,"what will he do without Raf Simons at Dior, never mind a smattering of Ralph Lauren." He's a fashion magpie, taking the best from here and there. He's just opened a flagship store next to Dior on Sloane Street and every time I've passed it (as they've taken to open-planning the whole shop a la YSL - see: magpie again), I've never seen anyone in it - just some bored assistants. But that doesn't matter as he sells shedloads of handbags in his Michael (read mid-priced range). Quite why I don't know. Of course I know why, it's in the pricing - “Midprice.” But, there you have it. Thinking about open plan shopping - who wants the whole world watching you selecting clothes? Not me, that's for sure and Marni have also adapted this style of voyeuristic shopping. Maybe they think it taps into the showman/exhibitionist  in their clients. Definitely not for me. But as we know from other posts, there are some out there who adore this mode of shopping - "Everyone look at me!"
OK thats definitely the last time I try on the Winter White gown. Three times - yes, three times and each time it looks better. But who am I? I'm not Marilyn Monroe singing “Happy Birthday Mr President." Can I really stand up and introduce my charity dinner in a goddess gown. And you know me with flying food (I'm a magnet). So no, I haven't bought it. But I can't say I've stopped thinking about it...

I had a little accident during the week. I was changing a tea light and the one I was changing was full of wax. Hot wax everywhere. My mahogany table! My beautiful bag! And my cocktail dress!! So yesterday I got some brown paper bags for the spots on my dress (a warm iron and hopefully the wax will lift into the paper). The table was cleaned with much elbow grease and an old credit card. The handbag has to go to the Handbag Hospital. No it doesn’t! I used the brown paper bag and some heat. All is well now! The handbag hospital - it does exist! And I'm thinking of Winter White!

As if by kismet I found myself in Marylebone High Street. I know you all love this area - a bit like Primrose Hill. All quaint and village-like. Somehow I don't get it, but maybe that's just me. Anyhow, back to the story. As luck would have it I parked outside Matches so I popped in. Not a store that I like particularly, but never mind. I went to have a look at their cruise offerings and what do you know?! Winter white/cream was everywhere. You know where this is going… My Goddess Gown! Maybe... Just maybe... (Oh Francine get a grip. We've had this talk). I know, I know but… Probably to be continued.

I took a style leap. I wore a big black cashmere cardigan over my full black cocktail dress. I did try the silver socks with silver strappy shoes, but my sister said that they were a style tip too far. Still not convinced! Gucci pre-fall 2016 continues on the “Granny Takes An Acid Trip Into The Dressing-Up Box." Full of fun, colour and print. Geek styling with humour and wit! This mishmash has no evidence of disappearing. Which is good, isn't it?

I'm just reading the weekend FT and the magazine has a feature on Women of 2015, which has me thinking - who are my Women of 2015? Tricky… very tricky!

I gave a ladies lunch at my home this week for the charity Langdon (I'm dinner chair) and on thinking of the women in the room… I’m actually thinking of renaming it for next year “Women of 2016” and they'll all be contenders for the title. Many of my guests have been major achievers during this last year, whether as dinner chairs or art philanthropists, business or family. I am surrounded by women who continue to achieve great things on a daily basis - so you are all my Women of 2015! Congratulations!!

Happy Shopping

F   XX

Imagine this with a body inside it.

The great Cover-Up. Probably.

Post Divorce Dressing. As I'm divorced I feel very well placed to ask this question. Is there a difference between, married, divorced, and just for good measure - single dressing? In days gone by I think there might have been. Well, there was for married and widowed. Queen Victoria saw  to that. She even had mourning (widow) jewels. Yes, yes... but we're not talking about that, we’re talking about mainly post-divorce. Probably. There's not a difference, just the secret codes of dressing. Take another step into the complicated language of  clothing, regardless of whether you’re dressing for men or women! Do you want to look good for dating-and-mating? Hmmm... but Francine I think you’re missing the point. Is it advisable to look too grand for a divorcée and does it matter? I saw someone all gussied up and that's when this crossed my mind… No, it  wasn't my reflection (see? I'm way ahead of you!) I'm still having fun in the mishmash zone. I'm going to give this question my full attention, then report. Maybe the question is - do you look different if you’re married? (still thinking)

Probably, (as above) - what does this word mean to you? “A reasonable chance that something is true.” So really, regarding anything more than a 50% chance of success. Rubbish! It's the most negative word around. “Probably" means - nothing, zero, don't waste you’re time even saying it! Probably… I tried to make Shalom over a “perceived” miscarriage of justice. Like, after 21 years - let's make peace! To which the other person replied "Probably" and still we don't speak. I for one would much rather that said No, than “probably."

Hand Art… (What?!) No, not what you’re thinking at all (not some action that you’re good at with your hands), but painting more than your fingernails. Not tattoos, but just washable skin ink. Seems everyone's painting some part of their bodies. This week’s fashion in the FT's How To Spend It painted the model in body glitter, all except her face. Took a while to see where the dresses started and the paint finished but this is maybe the beginning of a trend. You can already find it it in some hairstyles. Must explore... As long as the paint doesn't rub off on your dress I think we may have something. To be seen at a Gala near you very soon. (You think?) I dare you to go first...

Great news for us “Women." Pirelli have just released their 2016 calendar and Annie Leibovitz photographed real women (read - Serena Williams, Yoko Ono, Patti Smith, Amy Schumer to name a few) in whatever glory they felt comfortable with. No supermodels dressed as tyres or in next to nothing! As I heard with Playboy, gone are the days of the full frontal (one click of the mouse and you can see all the porn you like…) Now they're really buying Playboy for the articles. Well done I say! And I "might"  even try to get a calendar. I can always give it as a present…

You know I'm looking for new earrings. Well I saw the loveliest pair of Aluminium Pansy ear clips by Jar in the upcoming Christies Important Jewels sale. So my first phone call was… My ex-husband! Who, every day, buys and sells at auction - on what to do (and you know I always believe there's a chance...) There was No Chance. Provenance - how much have earrings like that sold for? So we did our due diligence and a pair this colour haven't come up before, so they're rare. I think they'll go for a lot more money but the process was fun. Can't go to the sale and you never know maybe they'll be unsold (Francine the Eternal Optimist!) and I can then get them. Chance would be a fine thing, but if I did  get lucky, forget my usual earrings - I'd be “Have you seen my Jar?" or those in the know would say “Is Francine wearing Jar earrings?” Wow! How cool would that be? Listen, it could always be an early birthday present. Just sayin’...  As expected the earrings went over the estimate but at least now I know what I'm looking for.

I found myself looking through some old photos yesterday of me married and they started me thinking of my married life. The clarity that they bought to me, from then to now, in what I want in my future life was massive. This must be where the phrase "Back to the Future" comes from… I certainly recommend taking that trip (but it’s not for the faint hearted).

Just watched the Chanel pre-fall 2016 show. Now I must say I'm not really a recent Chanel fan. Went through that phase a long time ago (and now just too expensive for me) but… Congratulations Karl - and your styling team (read Amanda Harlech) was brilliant. It so diffused the heavy thick suits that are the Chanel staple that I really enjoyed it. And what is the most valuable piece of styling?... The tights. Yes, the multi-layered, patterned, black lace tights. They are the key. So off to Fenwick Bond Street I go. I've been wearing my multi-flowered tights with my tri-coloured shoes and trousers. A totally winning combination! They had nothing remotely like them. Just too early Francine. How quickly can they produce a tight or stocking when the show was only yesterday?

The pre-sales have begun. I received a phone call from Erdem - I was interested in a long dress but not at full price. So they called to offer me a 40% discount and I've booked my slot in the changing room (that's a new one one me!) Will (of course) let you know how it looked. Hmmm… Very, very demure but not 100% convinced. If it becomes very cheap I might! Joseph in Brompton Cross also offered me 40% off last week. They even had my tri-colour shoes in the blue/black and brown version in my size that Dior worldwide had sold out of. Just 6 weeks  too late. I'm making a concerted effort to "not" buy the same shoes over and over again in different colours (tell that to Roger Vivier). Anyhow I'm debating the Dior pixie ankle boots. (Really Francine?! Are you sure?) OK, no not sure. But like the sequinned trainers I could always display them as modern art.

So, if you happen to come across a bargain in the pre- or official sales… Just think - wouldn't I really prefer new season? I mean isn't winter over now?

Happy Shopping

F   XX

This blog film might contain upsetting scenes for those suffering from a lack of humour 

PS: Exploring themes for the Jewish Social Scene Movie...

And your name is?...

I wanted to call this blog "Chicken Gate", but unless you were there it means nothing, and to start telling that story would mean asking you to sit down and instead of a 3 minute read we'd now be veering into short story territory! Another time, maybe…

Who would star and direct the film, “The London Jewish Social Scene"? Wasn't going to continue this, but I think I will… But first - what sort of film will it be? A love story? A crime caper? an Action Thriller, something family-friendly or all Blood and Guts? A Buddy Movie or a RomCom? A Murder Mystery, perhaps?

"The London Jewish Social scene.” It has to be directed by Quentin Tarantino and scripted by Aaron Sorkin. Obviously all that stylish violence and no prisoners taken with fast-paced dialogue (well I'm laughing!). The acting will have to be of the highest quality! Meryl Streep is a shoe-in for someone, actually so is Angelina Jolie, Bette Midler, Scarlet Johanson, Anne Hathaway and Jennifer Aniston. Men - let me think... The Jewish lawyer from Sex and the City (Evan Handler - I think he's adorable!), Billy Crystal, Larry David, Jerry Seinfeld. Sorry, I have to have Micheal Fassbender and Daniel Craig. So there's the beginning - just have to develop the story now!

So much has been going on I don't know where to start! Just came back from a Gala Dinner which was... fun. My observation was that it was very Black. As I (and most of the guests and the catering staff) wore black with the smallest smattering of flowers and prints (hard to tell who’s-who sometimes). My black was a cocktail dress and my arms were showing  (I like to think a pale shade of tan. Hope there were no streaks!) My coat was gold brocade. That's my only comment on this, but note to self - must buy a coloured or patterned cocktail dress. Next year! Just seen a long yellow evening dress (will I look like a canary? Yellow with blonde hair... Probably…)

What's worse? Being written about or not being written about? Seems everyone has an opinion on this, which is good, but hang on - just let me think. I'm flattered that some of you remember what I've said when often, once I've written my blog, I've forgotten myself. As if what I think or say is important - obviously it is to some!

I had a spray tan before the Gala. On I looking at myself in the mirror, Christina (yes, she's in Team Francine) said she thought she'd sprayed a little too much on my face. She was absolutely right. Sheer panic set in. What could I do?! I calmed myself down and a very simple solution occurred. I washed my face. How did I get so smart? I just remembered to breathe... then all was well.

It started for me last week in Annabel’s when this couple sat next to us. The women's dress was slit down to her waist and her (must have been hugely expensive boob job) was exposed for all to see - front, side and even nipple all on show! No one knew where to look! And I mean no one. And now we have a picture of Selma Hayek and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley just to name two almost full frontals? Selma (who is married to Francois-Henri Pinault who owns all those luxury clothing brands) wore a dress that really defied belief at the Television Awards. I'm interested to know - why did she do it, or - who made her do it? It's so sad. I thought we'd said good bye to Page 3 but now this is making front page news. It's vulgar and not just a little pervy. One last thing - in the picture I'm looking at of her her eyes don't look happy. Aha! I've just thought - maybe she's New Husband Hunting. One thing for sure - she's not in my film. She may have played a women with a monobrow and a moustache but there's not much call for that in my film. Oh, hold on.. Just a minute!...

I met a women at a party in the summer and very quickly knew that I was the wrong sex for her to take any notice of me. My suspicions were confirmed. Here she was again this weekend. Her boyfriend greeted me with, “You remember Francine?” to which she replied, “No. Have we met before?" “Yes," he said "Francine was at my birthday dinner. I was sat next door but one to her." I knew it!! Only Men Matter - as I'm obviously so totally forgettable! And yes you guessed it - she's Russian/American. What a winning combination.

How, after a real "Black Friday” (Paris…) can we call this Friday, "Black Friday?” Maybe white or silver Friday, or maybe the best Friday pre-holidays to go shopping! But not black. It's only a reason for the shops to lower prices to entice us in. Not so black, please!

I'm so lucky to have a hugely diverse set of friends, as I was invited to a girls lunch at Claridges. A Fashion Lunch - preview a collection and eat if you dare! And you who know me, know I'm an eater! I sat next to this adorable women who's discipline either really inspired or terrified me! Setting the scene… Thirty women of “some" age in the highest heels, the tightest dresses, the shortest skirts and the longest hair. And Me in Winter White! This woman next to me - let's call her Mabel (protecting the innocent) had a lovely figure, not too long hair and the most unbelievable jewellery. At lunch. In fact, I think in that room there was more Jewelery than in Graff in Bond Street (all the way down the corridor there were security guards stationed). She told me that the way to be a size 34/36 Dior (and I'm anything from 40/42/44) is to not eat after lunch. And only ever 2 glasses of wine in the evening - whilst at a dinner playing with her food. I was of course the first to finish my main course. I didn't have any bread and only three quarters of a glass of champagne. No wine for me. But when the beautiful dessert came, she looked at me, I looked at it, and she said “I tell you secret." I leaned in. "Sweet is cellulite!" That was it. One tiny mouthful (just to taste, but it looked so wonderful) And then I remembered “Sweet is Cellulite.” That's a better prevention than what I've had before at a dinner, when a friend poured wine on my dessert to stop me wolfing the whole lot. Hmmmm… So I had to eat last night (who has this discipline? Obviously not me). But, in my own little way, I will… Maybe next time I go shopping I'll be a size 38. In my lifetime - Noooo…

Happy Shopping

F  XX

PS: Any idea what I can do with all the pasta in my fridge? Throw it out? No - I paid good money for that!
PPS: Just remember - I visited Erdem recently and the new Dior designer rumour is...

Darling... I don't eat chicken...

La Grande Horizontale

This is the position I find myself in writing this blog! Well done I hear you say... About what, I hear you ask?

Today my business partner and I launched our new company - PnR - with our first event. And what an event - it was wonderful (if I do say so myself!) Andrew Prince, the designer of all the amazing period-perfect Jewelery that was worn in Downton Abbey, and the films Young Victoria and Mrs Henderson Presents. We were hosted by Annoushka in her flagship store in Cadogan Gardens. He spoke about the history of Jewelery from Downtown to Gatsby. It was brilliant and inspirational but boy am I tired!

The title this week refers to the Mistresses of the time (early 20th Century) who wore wonderful Jewelery and generally married well, but because of their profession were know in some circles as "Les Grande Horizontale." The very same position I find myself in now! Although in my case (at present) all very innocent...

In other news, and I bore witness to it today, we are being overrun with a new craze called Groutfit - the idea of only wearing different shades of grey, as worn by Angelina Jolie. Who, in my eyes, looked awful. If you want to see it done well - Olivia Palermo. She's the one to follow it seems.  Every new fad has a name now, but not every new fad deserves one. Be very careful with this, as you run the risk of looking very dull - all that grey!

And continuing on the colour theme, I saw Rita Ora on the X Factor last week (no, I don't usually watch it at all but a friend told me to) which is where I caught sight of Rita and her new makeup. All dewy skin, green sparkling eye makeup, light mascara, a touch of blush and a slightly glossy nude lip. She looked wonderful, well done to whoever her makeup artist is. Funnily enough, my friend who made me watch it didn't like her look at all!

As I was sitting in Dr Sebag’s waiting room (the elixir of youth required from Dr Anne Mendelovici), I was flicking through some magazines and what caught my eye? Red and Black stripes. Where had I seen this before? Raf Simons farewell show to Dior,  spring/summer 2016 - red and black striped coat. I thought at the time this was a parting folly but this is definitely a future thing so start looking out for it now (one of my friends wore red and black today). A long time ago I used to have a red and black striped top (no, I don't still  have it). I thought at the time I looked like a footballer. Not a look to go for, but nevertheless it'll be coming to a shop near you very soon.

I have been so busy of late that I'm afraid I have no shopping news except for my new black bar jacket which is proving it was the best thing for me to buy. Money well spent! I found myself a few days this week with little time to eat… All that no food is very good for my body. Looking quite trim at present, especially with only 3 days in the gym! But talk of trim bodies brings me to a dinner I attended at Annabel's this week with a burlesque show by Agent Provocateur. What bodies those women had on the catwalk! Not one inch of cellulite to be found anywhere. Interesting outfits... Nod nod wink wink. I think I'll stick with La Perla thank you.

So lots of festive ideas rocketing around - let's see which ones we catch!

Happy Shopping

F  XX

La Grande Verticale

Just This Side Of Bonkers

What do we want to see when we go to an Art Gallery or a Museum by the way of clothes? Fashion garments, Royal regalia, outfits of past dignitaries and pop stars?

I was listening to the show Jeremy Vine on Radio 2. The subject of Mrs Thatcher's 

clothing and accessories were offered to the V&A museum as of interest to the nation. They declined the collection and I'm wondering if they've made a mistake. Vivian Westwood was interviewed on the show and although she hated the women and what she'd done to this country she regarded her as a fashion icon! And on reflection I might just agree. I'd much rather see the clothes that created her image than be spoon fed Chanel. That was just shown the Saatchi Gallery, just as a marketing tool to procure everyone's email. Margaret Thatcher was no Style Maverick or indeed on anyone's best-dressed list and yet she created her place in history in part through the use of clothes as a language. The collection is being sold later this month at Christies - I for one will be going to see her suits and handbags. Who knows? Maybe I'll be bidding as well! UPDATE - on the 3rd of November the V&A released a statement "that, the V&A might consider making a new offer to show or acquire the collection! "The V&A is a constantly evolving institution." Watch this space...

The Dior cruise collection Cocktail Party was held last night and what a happy place it was to be. For a house "in a little bit of flux the past 2/3 weeks" it were as if nothing had happened. I suppose they all learn from history "Sh.t happens and we must all carry on" John Galliano was a horrid time for Dior and the House not only survived but flourished under Raf Simons leadership. Now a new designer will be anointed (can't help thinking that his job will be nigh-on impossible) but he or she will do their best and all will carry on as normal. "A poisoned chalice" springs to mind... Back to the party. These affairs are always fun but last night seemed... "better " if that is the correct word. All were friendly and the clothes on the beautiful young lean-limbed girls looked wonderful. Lots of daywear (always a plus in my eyes) and those new boots... Don't get me started! 

One question I'd like to pose - "the etiquette of trying on clothes and parading them around at such an event." Now as a client I see nothing wrong in trying on clothes whenever, but something worries me about coming out of the changing room during such an event. No one is there to see that client and such narcissistic displays should not be encouraged. I agree!!

If you'd have seen me today you may have laughed, or as a friend of mine said "very Wes Anderson" - can't think of a bigger complement. From the bottom up: Tri-coloured shoes: blue-green and brown, maroon knee-length socks' stone-coloured, knife-pleated, mid-calf skirt; black very long side-buttoned cardigan; bright green and black striped mink coat, elbow-length blue gloves and pale greyish bag. And of course, lots of blonde hair with just the right amount of dark roots. Just the right side of Bonkers! I heard last night that someone recounted an outfit I had on last week to a friend, in a very flattering way. Living the dream... just living the dream!

A few years ago I used to see in the fashion pages lots of romantic black dressing. You know the look - hats, veils, long gloves, fur, long skirts, flock or net blouses, lace anything. Sort of Death in Venice in a romantic French way. That was a few years ago until today. Suspend disbelief, the "Harrods Christmas"magazine had such a fashion spread and I loved it! This is not Black Dressing as we know it. No body con, no platform hooker shoes. All mysterious and womanly. Going back to SPECTRE - the dressing of Monica Bellucci is a perfect example. I'm going to try some looks tomorrow. Yes, yes it's Black Dressing but done with love.

Sock Watch: Remember, if you will, the silver lurex socks I bought a few months ago? Yes I nearly forgot about them as well! Well there they sat on a shelf behind a pair of silver shoes and guess what?! I wore them yesterday with a pair of leopard print brogues (from last winter) and a pair of wide, grey flannel trousers. Hurrah! OK, you couldn't really see them but it was a pretty cool look for me. Unfortunately I'd topped off my look with a silver flecked (hence the socks) grey and black striped Cashmere jumper and my natural black mink jacket. And it turned out to be 18 degrees yesterday so although I think I looked good, the beads of sweat rolling down my forehead and also springing up on my (hairless) top lip did nothing to help me during a splendid lunch at the Arts Club!

Happy Shopping 

F  XX

Our Intrepid Reporter - just this side of Bonkers!

The One That Got Away!

Bicester! Playground of the chic and canny shopper... I visited said playground the other day, not for shopping but for the opening of the collaboration between itself and Fig 2 (the art project housed for 1 year at the ICA courtesy of Outset). I was so glad to have witnessed this partnership .Four pieces of art by four different artists were shown (Shezad Dawood, Deborah Coughlin and Gaggle, Annnika Strom, Vesna Peterson) and they were so aware  and so inclusive of their surroundings. Between now and 20 December. If you have the time (for shopping there's always time) go and visit Fig 2 at Bicester you won't be disappointed. The question I can hear you asking though is, did I buy anything? The answer is no! I nearly bought a short sleeved jumper in Ralph Lauren but wasn't sure. If in doubt, leave it out! But it was photographed...

Just heard Julia Peyton-Jones is stepping down as director of the Serpentine! It's gathering pace this, this Artistic shift. Are we witnessing the birth of "A New World Order" Art and Fashion-wise. Does this mean what I think it means? Just when I'm getting into the swing of mishmash and Victoriana with a touch of Haute Boho... Something new is going to hit us flat in the face. I wonder what?...

Gymnastics! The world finals are taking place in Glasgow and I've been glued to the two-hour showing every night. The strength the beauty the unbelievable mental agility. And I can nearly do the splits in Pilates. Actually I can! But only when I'm really working hard every day and my body is shall we say "in the grove." This for someone who did a smidgin of Ballet and Tap as a child is quite an achievement. But the dedication and training these people do is just mind-blowing. The triple twists on the floor. The men on the Rings. How, why, what happens next? But those are questions not for now. I think it's great and well done to BBC2 for providing the coverage. It's, I suppose, like ballet and that dedication also blows me away.

Halloween. I was late leaving town, so the huge box of chocolates that I'd bought sat unopened till 6:30. Actually, driving through St Johns Wood took the best part of 50 mins, for a 10 minute journey! The place was mobbed with tiny revellers and parents. When the first of the trick-or-treaters came a-knocking at my door, all was fine. Their tiny hands reached in and took chocolates for their treat and then came him! A little boy of about 6 or 7 who looked at my box of chocolates, looked at me and said "is that all you've got?" Somewhat surprised I said "Yes." So he said ,"well I'd rather not!" That was definitely a first - Quality Street not good enough for this little connoisseur. Just more for the other revellers. Really!

Next week starts the dinner season, and I began thinking about what to wear. Actually, I had already decided but on talking with a friend, I decided I hadn't really decided. So this morning I tried on a few dresses. And then it hit me! "to sleeve or not to sleeve" which is slightly ironic as that was touched on last week with Kate's red offering (dress with tiara). Not sure. My first dinner is not a religious dinner but... Well, I've tried on a few and the good thing is they all fit. Which is a very good thing. Now just have to decide, and you know me and choice - not such a good thing. 

I've just returned from Spectre. James Bond (Daniel Craig) can call me any time he wants! And the good thing is we know he likes Jewish Princesses (as his present wife is one ) you reckon he might like a blonde next time?... I really enjoyed Spectre. I did feel that the women's clothes reminded me somewhat of Casablanca and I'd like to know how, when captured with no visible signs of suitcases, our heroine managed to dress for every occasion? She obviously must be using the service where you send your clothes ahead of you? Yes, that must have been, as there were no shops or shopping in sight.

Be careful in the mist - very romantic, but scary.

Happy Shopping 


F   XX

He could still be mine...

Team News

How many of us rely on a trusted, loyal team? 
My Team:

• Michele -- hair colour, cut, style.
• Christina -- bikini wax, facial tanning.
• Elena -- nails mani/pedi, other waxing and threading
• Susie in Harrods Dior cosmetics
• Anna at Dr Sebagh, elixir of youth
• Pilates Teachers, various
• And On
• And on
• and on...

But what happens when they move on? Another salon I can cope with. Another country - well that's a problem. Or is it? As my Mother loves to say "The King is dead! Long live the King" (she's very fond of this saying). I'm not going to worry too much, but it can be a problem that takes effort and time to regroup.

At the moment I'm so busy and I like things ordered and as stress-free as possible. Otherwise, without what I really need (maybe in another life...) a "social secretary," I'm sunk! I'm technically what I would call "ham-fisted and computer illiterate" and no amount of computer lessons now is going to make that much difference (it's the age you know). 

Hang on... Hot news?! Is this really, really news? Kate Middleton is wearing a tiara this evening. This is the third she's worn! Hot News?... I've also worn a tiara three times and may wear one again soon. So what? Did this affect the economy? Is there another war somewhere in the world? Front page of The Times - very slow news day obviously! Every time she wears a long dress - is that news? And the one accompanying the tiara was red (a nice nod to China) but short-sleeved! Will someone do something with her? She looked (with all that long hair) like the beginnings of a Stepford Wife. Or maybe if she had a much bigger chest we'd see her in the Playboy mansion. Just sayin'...

Now this is News and it pertains to my Team. Raf Simons has left Dior! Why, how and who's next? What to do? I can do nothing but... Well, we'll just have to wait and see. Someone whispered Christopher Kane. He was at the last show (so was  Alaia...). I've just looked at the Christopher Kane collection and I'm not commenting (but you know I'm busting to say). All in good time...
I wonder what happened? Suppose we'll never know but if I hear anything - you'll be the first to know. Apart from the party line "contractual issues" your guess is as good as mine. And Dior was making money. It's a shame... The King is dead, long live the King (again with that saying!) As if all this upheaval isn't bad enough, Cruise is in. I was going to treat myself and in my head I had it all figured out. That's until I spied Cruise... Oh who knows? But as I've been paying attention to what I've been telling you, what I really need is (now don't laugh) - a black jacket. A jacket for every day and every night. My last real black jacket (apart from a natural black mink and a velvet short jacket) was from Dolce & Gabbana, from a trouser suit that really must be at least 15 years-old and the shiny material it is now, is not how it started out. So - a new black day bar jacket that has just touched down may just fit the bill. Except the only size they have in at the moment is 36 (a little small). Just have to wait. And now the Cruise shoes are in - don't ask... As soon as I think I have it all sorted, it all changes. Ah well, they say that's what happens to the best-laid plans... Just took a swift look at my Autumn list and there is a black jacket on there, so not so awful. 

How is this possible? Today I have four newspapers to read. The Times, the Jewish Chronicle, the Daily Mail (thank-you Waitrose) and the Evening Standard (thank-you Harrods car park). Two down, two to go! And still going through the How To Spend It FT magazine from last week!

I saw the film Suffragette this week. And suffer I did! I know it was a great film and the acting is spot-on. How much we have to thank those heroic women for, but it's not an easy watch and although I was happy to have experienced this, I don't want see it again!

The clocks just went back, so this week I won't be late for Zumba. As if by design the Times style section has a double-page spread "The Anatomy of a Catwalk Show," which just happens to be Raf's last Dior show. I really think he's going to be an extremely hard act to follow. I've read almost everything that's been published about him and past interviews, to get a better insight as to why. I think the strain of having to produce so much was just too much for him. Ready-to-wear couture - I think that's six collections a year and, as he said, there is never any time to incubate any ideas. Everything has to be now! Remember - Fast Fashion! 
That's not how he works and I personally can't say I blame him. But in the History of Dior he will (in my eyes) go down as a true talent. A creative genius and a lover of women. 

The King is dead. Long live the King!

Happy shopping 

F  XX


PS: Fashion is having its own epidemic. Alber Elbaz has just left Lanvin! It's like divorce - one couple does it and that just seems to open the flood gates. So Fashion is having the same crisis! Watch this space...

"...and the crowd goes Wild!!"

Green Is Go!

My tanned legs partially remain (a sort of patchy milky coffee colour and pale pink skin!) This, Dear Readers, did not prevent me from going bare-legged to a birthday lunch where my new green suede shoes were much admired. The lunch was in the heart of Mayfair so, never wanting to appear rude, I popped into the brand-newly opened Dior Pop-Up in Mount Street next door to the Connaught Hotel. Just when I thought I was safe! There they sat - the Dior sneakers in green! No, I didn't try them on (that can only be a matter of time). Two things to know about me - I’ve avoided the sneakers since their creation and l love green. What's a girl to do? Will report…

Frieze has opened. The rain has stayed away but it's become cold. Brrrrrr!! 

On visiting Frieze yesterday I was struck by many things, but the first thing I noticed was the overriding sea of Black clothing! Did I miss the notice that came around? A uniform like no other… l saw one women (and I say this in all honestly) she was the only person I saw in colour, apart from Moi! She had on a printed (autumnal colours) silk, Gucci dress and light-tan suede boots. She looked so happy and fresh, and then last night at a great party my Italian skirt made another hit and my hostess wore a divine blush-pink, long-sleeved, cool princess dress with flat, off-colour, patent pointed shoes. Quality dressing, I say!

It was only a matter of time before the stupid "fat rule" in fashion became page 3 in The Times! Models are finding their (very loud) voice and I'm proud. The film "Suffragettes” had not long opened, highlighting the struggle we women had to go through to get the Vote and a Voice. Now we're furthering the conversation about weight and size. I say "Bring it on!”

I've spoken before about the YSL advert banned from Britain for using a model that really looked like a child from a concentration camp. How did this body image become the calling card of fashion? It's awful, and such a Bad Thing to have as an influence on young women today (that's not to say men don't also suffer from this too…)

I'm not a huge reality TV fan, but the one thing it does, is show is the huge range of body types around. And that, whatever size and shape, they’re all beautiful bodies (even the orange-sprayed ones). I hope that the models’ voices will reopen the conversation on size and that the people (I'm being very politically correct here...) behind Fashion sit up and take note as have Dior. Rihanna is the one of the new faces of Dior and in the photos released by Dior (shot by Craig McDean) you will see a women before you. She has a bust, waist and hips and her shape is celebrated rather than berated! In Hip-Hop women are women, curves galore. To engage in this culture for couture is forward-thinking and can only continue to reinforce the message that size and beauty are not mutually exclusive partners. And that all shapes and sizes are what matters!

Mental Strength. I just read an article about Novak Djokovic and he talks a lot about mental strength. Which got me thinking “How mentally strong am I?" And the answer is, I think, not very strong mentally at all… How to improve this?! He talks about being in the moment. I'm always in the moment but thinking about it sometimes I forget to breathe and this is when I could collate all information and then act (emphasis on "then”) instead of being what I would call Trigger Happy! 

Well, this has been a very valuable post (for me at least!)

Remember - Green is the colour. Womanliness is The Shape and a light-tanned leg never hurt anyone!

Happy Shopping 

F   XX 



PS: Green Report. I tried on the green sequinned sneaker. I think to me they’re Modern Art, because on me I couldn't do anything but laugh. But I could always display them as 2015 performance art…

Surely these will make you Green... with envy!

Absolutely Friezeing

As I said last week, I went to see the film Macbeth. In one scene, Lady Macbeth is dressed for a dinner. The makeup artist decided that pale blue eye shadow swept from temple-to-temple through the eyes, via the bridge of the nose, was probably what 11th Century Queens wore (who am I to disagree?) 
So imagine my surprise when Chanel showed their Airport Lounge collection yesterday, and how were our intrepid travellers made up?... Yes, you guessed: a la Lady Macbeth. "Original" Huh?! I expected more creativity!!

Now the Fashion season has finished. Paris showed its last dress! I've watched all the shows (OK... most) and now I have the FT Paris Fashion Trends in the Newspaper. This is all you need to know. We will be transparent. In Luxe tracksuits covered in checks. And they say the chequebook is history! Never!!) Or, decked in silver... And I'm looking at a picture of a red-and-white leather, deconstructed biker jacket shown by Alexander McQueen with a tired, transparent, long-frilled skirt. A light has just popped on, in my head (yes, you're correct this doesn't happen often). Dior in Bicester have a red-and-white leather biker jacket! Really!! (Francine--turn the light off). OK OK, I wouldn't wear it with a transparent skirt. (Then what would you wear it with? No Francine. File it under "Great Look But Not For You"). Really?... (Yes. Really.)  OK!!! 
---
What happened to this week? It rained a lot and suddenly it got cold. So the latter part of the week I spent with straight hair - UGH! Never mind, that was then. We've been promised sun for the next 10 days. Great! As the Art Express FRIEZE is just about to approach Regents Park.
---
How many parties? How many openings? Too many to count! But this year I'm being selective (as always, just... more so). Look I'm not really a Collector. I sit at the foothills of Contemporary Art but I'll be looking at art life for you.
---
I had my makeup done by a girl from the Harrods Dior team yesterday (the Backstage collection). The girl was quite brilliant - and, you do remember, I was a makeup artist. My eyebrows looked amazing and so did my eyes although, due to time constraints, I didn't buy any products. I'm hot-footing it back today to stock up. And no, she didn't use blue eyeshadow anywhere...
---
Vetements!! Who, what, where and when? This is an underground collective design group who produce street style with couture leanings. They produced a floral grunge dress in sweatshirt material that was seen everywhere in Paris on  the front row. (I would have abbreviated that, but not sure how fluent you all are in fashionspeak...) Anyhow, back to the story. The head designer, Demma Gvasalia, has been appointed to Balenziaga--watch out for that name and label. But back to the story. What happens when you turn up in the same dress as a friend? Many, many years ago when I worshiped at the hem of Azzadene Allia (go back 25/30 years) I turned up to a wedding in a blush-pink and black skirt suit and so did someone else! Not terrible, but nevertheless difficult. And a couple of years ago a good friend and I bought the same printed blouse. On seeing her in hers I hot-footed it back to the shop. Not going there... awkward...
---
Seeing Double. I'm not a fan of double jeopardy but if the FRO is any thing to go by... Coming to a social occasion near you soon. Note to Fenwicks, Bond Street. Well done on your revamp, but will some one tell me why the new season introduction that arrived on my mat called for us all to get dressed as men for work?! That look passed a looong time ago! Crombie, brogues, black trousers and black jumper with a tassel scarf. No No No! We want to look like women, not men. At least I do and I know I'm not alone, so please get your fashion current!
---
And to finish this week, I've just read an article in the Daily Mail (no judgment - it's free at Waitrose with my Shop And Waitrose card). You all know about the 5p plastic bag, so I took bags out of my car. I had Sainsbury's, M&S and Harrods. Not such good advertising if you ask me. Back to the Daily Mail. "The Reverse Blow-Dry -- How to achieve the perfect amount of messy hair cool". The picture was obviously of a head of hair that some hairdresser had spent hours styling. Not a do-it-at-home style at all. And this I should know as this, Dear Friends, is the look that I dream of achieving daily (and succeed maybe one day a week, depending on the weather) in my view the messy cool hair that you do at home is a fallacy!!

So if you do want it, go straight to your hair stylist and ask for as much help as possible. Just remember--always carry your plastic bags in your handbag. I nearly got caught out in Boots and all those 5p's add up...

Happy Shopping 

F   XX

Karl--this is how it's done.

Haute Green

I'm writing this from my sick bed so relying on "The Business of Fashion" to report to you.

During my summer sojourn in Venice my mother and I found a small out-of-the-way shop. Don't remember where, or what it was called but it was a winner. The assistants had on long, full-skirted dresses with blue or red stiff chiffon underneath, adding to the beauty. I remarked how amazing they looked. (Are you sure you didn't take their card?) I can do this with my newish big cocktail dress. And now I read that Giorgio Armani has done the same?! Actually, the following sentence I never thought I utter! - I quite liked his show! No Bonkers Brigade fashion or styling here! Just Armani's "slightly severe" styling for (as l see it) Women without chests.

Giant steps were made last week. I purchased a pair of dark green suede shoes. Not by Dior. Those of you that know me, know that I get fixated by one designer and never stray. I've mentioned this before - my love affair with Dolce & Gabbana that lasted the length of my marriage. But then things changed. I discovered Dover Street Market and then bought in Italy (on holiday, never did that before!) But shoes, we recently had Roger Vivier for about 4 years and now Dior. I've been looking for a pair of dark green suede shoes since I bought a dark green mink jacket last year. So imagine my delight on finding said shoes. Yes in Dover Street! There by Gianvito Rossi - so far so good. But they have a very different look to the leg. They're strappy (a bit like the Valentino shoes). Anyhow, I wanted to wear them yesterday and had an outfit picked out, but blow me down if I didn't look crap! So when I left to go out, was my dressing room knee deep in clothes? Yes! (I would generally never leave a mess behind but my Uber man was waiting...)

See this is what happens, as last week I said my shoes didn't work - now my clothes don't work with my new shoes. Quelle Horrore! This is definitely a First World problem. Am having a love affair! With my new green suede shoes, and well I never if Bonkers Fashion and I aren't having a moment (thanks to my green shoes!) I put a pleated long skirt under a knee length pinafore with green shoes. Brilliant! A cross between bonkers and Haute Geek with just a slight nod to the Victorians. Note to self - tanning isn't very Haute (Victorian or anything else) Ooops!

Paris! What joy! What light! What fashion! See, I told you. And I was right - Paris was so worth waiting for (OK, I mean Dior...) and the love affair continues. I missed the live screening (was having my hair washed). But 10 minutes later I saw the light. From the bank of blue delphiniums to the pan pipe music. Call me biased, but the man Raf is a genius! His touch is as light as air. Admittedly the skirts were too short for me but I understood his message, his cut, his styling, his colours, the shoes! Watch out for next summer. Coming to a social event near you very soon...

I've just returned from the film Macbeth (starring Michael Fassbender and Marianne Coutillard), and now I'm watching the Rugby World Cup. These, to all naysayers, is what Men are! OK Macbeth is a Play and rugby is a game, but in my book this shows men as men. Warriors - flawed, courageous, and passionate. The Scottish play is produced by the Weinstein Brothers. Well done I say, but didn't I see an Italian model as one of the extras...

Just living the dream... 

Happy Shopping 

F   XX

PS: Next time you pass a bowling bag or a soft leather roll - grab it as that's next spring/summer's shape! Everything that goes around comes around!

Do you realise how heavy these Bowls are!?

Bonkers means never having to say you're sorry

Imagine my surprise when opening up The Times fashion edition on Wednesday only to read about the block heel. This heel is having a moment... Actually for me it has been since June when I first saw the Chanel suede black-tipped slingback on a Block 5cm heel, then last week’s Orange Dior that I've previously mentioned. If this is to be believed, it's why, when stood in my dressing room, facing my Shoe Wall,  deciding what to wear for the most holy day of the year (Yom Kippur) for Shul, I turned to my mother and said “None of my shoes work!" It happened so fast - suddenly every shoe was wrong! It's hopefully only a passing phase - will let you know. I noticed in synagogue that most of you were still wearing the slapper shoe. Very, very high black platform and mostly patent, slightly rounded or pointed toe. Also, black mini skirts and black legs. And to my surprise, many slapper shoes can still found in Harrod’s shoe heaven. Well I suppose style and good taste isn't for everyone!

When did Mishmash become Bonkers? Or to put another way, when did the styling from English Vogue 2013 become style for summer 2016? Gucci, Prada, Karl Lagerfeld for Fendi, so far - what? Too many drugs. Have these designers forgotten that women have to wear these clothes? I really liked Gucci last season - it's freshness and vitality but Michele has obviously taken one too many, to really believe that what he showed this week is good. I know that's a bit harsh, but sometimes you can't believe the hype. Mui Mui, Oxfam and Dior (from 2014) seem to be overriding influences. I'm telling you, (if you can) never throw anything away. Next season you can wear it all together!

More by luck than design I tried on a flared jumper dress yesterday that for me was too short (a little above the knee), and as I can't zip up the PVC boots I put narrow trousers underneath it. I thought of it as the look that many Indian women wear with their saris and trousers. Little did I realise that the Bonkers Brigade would have cornered this look! I can't wait to see what Paris has to offer. One tip for next year - in Milan trousers are out. That means skirts, dresses and pantaloon, hardly a trouser to be seen anywhere.

What happened when a group of friends get together and out of 4 women, 3 are in various shades of dark green on the same day? It's not as if we call each other to discuss what we're wearing… Isn’t it a bit spooky?

And isn't it amazing how much I can tell you about shoes? In a conversation with a couple of friends it became clear to me that wanting to buy the right new shoes in this town means ordering them as soon as you see them in the magazine, because it seem to me that they don't buy them in stores for the London girls. Neither Prada, Mui Mui or Bottaga Veneta has bought either any runway or lead photo advertisement shoes this season. Which begs the question - Why? Why advertise something we can't buy? To me that's silly - isn't it to you?

Happy Shopping (if you can find what you want to buy…)

 

F  XX

Always check your Husband before he leaves with your best blouse on

Really?...

Yeezy does it!

American Fashion Week has just been - and a more derivative collection of schmatters I've never seen! Mui Mui to Dior - we've seen it all before (I'm a poet and didn't know it) (OK OK, Francine back to real news). Well, there was hardly any across the pond unless you think Posh Spice using skeletons again is News. Just deflects from the lack of originality in her designs!

Anna Wintour sat next to KKW at Kanye for Adidas. That must just thrill her! No wonder she donned her black glasses. The fact is that Kanye designs at his Yeezy show for Adidas are so far removed from "The Hood" that the anti-bling becomes more potent than the bling - Stealth Wealth! Like one Saturday - Ewan MacGregor came to Shul and we were trying to figure out who his wife was. Only one friend found her in her Stealth Wealth outfit. Beautifully cut black coat and no other accoutrements. No jewels, no bag - nothing but Stealth Wealth. Ummmm... is this the way to go?? And as if my question was answered, I open The Times and Michael Kors (he knows which way the wind is blowing) shows restraint - "earthy elegance." Stay tuned, we might have hit on something.

I've seen some more shows for you... This time British and the stealth thing hasn't hit Britain yet. Actually back-tracking a little, Ralph Lauren showed how to wear white palazzo pants with a striped blue shirt and red cardigan around the neck (how stealthy and radical! I can do this already from my wardrobe). London Fashion Week has never been my cup of tea but Top Shop hit the catwalk well. The “inspiration" for so many designers, as I've said before, I find quite alarming. Now it seems that a Shoe Designer (Miriam Nassir Zadeh) inn New York has accused Breakout Accessories label, Monsur Gavriel with what she calls “clear proof” of purchase of shoes in the exact style and colour in question by Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel in 2014 and 15, in NY. And has actually gone to the social media to complain of outright copying of a shoe design. It surprises me that this is the first time this has happened. They say that it's difficult to prove and I don't think that it will really make any difference, but an interesting development nevertheless. I'm telling you that Bicester last season Prada, Mui Mui, Dolce & Gabbana and Dior is all you need for next season fashion. Funny that!!

Last note - Men with Beards! My question is why? One man of my acquaintance has a short beard and every Saturday in Shul he greets me with a kiss and every Saturday I try to avoid this. His beard hurts my skin! Now I know I'm a delicate little flower but what is so wrong with a clean shave? Beards, stubble... are they really necessary? And I'd prefer not to have my face exfoliated every time I go near one. So let's not encourage this fashion - for the sake of our skin.

Happy Shopping

 

FXX

Be careful! This could be coming to a boutique near you very soon...

Very Trying

What a week! Busy like I've never known! They say always ask a busy person to do something and it will get done. How true! With a streaming cold I've been running around like a lunatic but have done everything. And the weather has been strange - hot one day cool the next then hot again!

My brown mascara has been noticed, as has my lack of black eyeshadow and lines. Interesting developments - I'm liking this look on me a lot. Am going to try with a strong lip soon see how that works...

Just realised that due to my busy week and a cold I've not been to the gym for nearly a week! Wow - good job my cold has prevented full on eating otherwise I'd be rolling down the street.

I was invited to view the new Bamford shop on South Audley Street so off I went. I parked outside the new Erdem shop, so naturally popped in. There they were. Lots of my big, Italian skirts and beautiful long dresses. May have to go back to try on... Then on to Bamford. Now, if you’re a constant reader of me then you'll remember I was invited to a breakfast at the Bamford studios earlier on this year. This time the manager, who came from Mui Mui, called me. He remembered my one inquiry about a blouse which I never even tried on (actually I did, in Dover Street - terrible fit!!!) And my name etc... Very impressive! That's how it's done, a personal connection and an ease of manners. Will I buy Bamford?! Maybe… Erdem - it may benefit by location…

Football! Yes I follow, but I must say now that I'm a pretty fair-weather follower (only if my club is doing well!) and my club is Chelsea… What a disastrous start to the season they're having. Poor Jose - what to do, as in life... Abandon ship? Soldier on? My question is actually what's gone wrong? As I'm not privy to the dressing room I've no idea but reading him in the Times this morning he's going to battle through. So should we all! Work the problem out and push on...

My big Italian skirt made its debut last weekend to huge applause! But my other big skirt (a Dior number) I took with me, to try the jewelled trainers with. You had to laugh. My Mother was crying, I looked so funny! Yes, if you 18-24 and stick-thin and trendy. Not if you an ever-so-slightly mature women who's not stick-thin. Well, at least I satisfied myself without bursting the bank. Remember it costs nothing to try !!!! 

Rain Rain go away! Please...

Happy Shopping 

F  XX

ERDEM front row - "No, it's OK - I'm waiting for my friends" 

Due to shrinkage...

The first Saturday in September, or Shabbat pre-Rosh Hashanna! Synagogue or Shull dressing. If this sounds strange to you, you're either not Jewish, not one of my friends, or (I suppose it's possible) you don't care what you wear! Then that begs the question - why read me That's for another blog. Back to the top. First Saturday dressing. Autumn is here, so no summer looks. I've cleansed my wardrobe of summer and I actually have an outfit on the holding rail.

The Financial Times arrived this morning with of course "How to Spend It" and the fashion - tweed! And what is on the holding rail? You guessed - a tweed coat, a herringbone coat, my big Italian skirt, and a tweed skirt. Take your pick. This is all part of the new Mishmash look I've been banging on about, but can I put it together to wear it in public? Hmmmm not so sure. I have other looks that can be worn but I'm drawn to this. It’s just a new departure for me and although you think I'm fearless, sometimes I'm chicken. (Francine, can't you just put on a dress and have done with it?!) I could, but then I might enjoy this new look more. Will report later…

Back from my dressing room. Big Italian skirt - No, tweed skirt - Yes Yes Yes! Triumph!! Got to go now - Shull calls.

Taffy and I went to pick up some alterations. A new heel height for winter means long long trousers must be shortened (only a little, but still a must). She is so loved by all. Well, most dogs are - its just that I'm biased. Dior on Sloane Street - they have a silver dog bowl and as she was the only dog yesterday, she happily drank out of her bowl!

Not that I'm in the market for a winter white Duster Coat, but if I was?... Where to begin?! And they had some kick-ass orange shoes. No No No walk away…

How hot was it today? 21 Degrees! Shame - it missed my summer clothes, I know all I'd have to do is open another wardrobe but one must be disciplined. I think I've finally lost it - talking to the weather as if it can be tamed…

The American Open. I'm a huge tennis fan and a champion of Andy Murray, I'm hoping that he can go all the way again and take the title, but I'd prefer that he stop playing at midnight - it plays havoc with my sleep patterns. Unfortunately Andy is now out...

Note to Self - do not buy the white jeans from Acne as I just washed my boyfriend jeans and boy! Did they shrink!! So winter white with guaranteed shrinkage will be a definite no-go!

Wrap up warmly!

Happy Shopping 

F  XX

Tweed - if only I could fit into those boots...

Family and Friends

The Anne Robinson Spending Secrets - very interesting… As expected spending time with family and loved ones is better than buying designer brands. I could have to told her that. Family and friends are always the best way to spend time and money.

Brown mascara, this is the way forward for the "no makeup" makeup look . OK, this may not be news to you but it is to me. The colour change makes such a difference! How come I never thought of it before? And I used to be a makeup artist! I've stopped using black eye liner, and using softer colours really works…

I read about some straight-legged white (winter white) Jeans at the shop Acme in Dover Street so I went in today to try them on. Hmmmm... not bad. Will have to try a few more makes on but they may just be the answer. 

Saw the wonderful Electra on Dover Street 3rd floor. I went in looking for one thing, of course ended up trying on totally different things, as alway! But maybe!... At least the length of the dresses and skirts were more to my liking - below the knee. This seems to be a problem, a lot of designers have hiked the hem lines up. Not a look for me. I went back to try on the winter white jeans in Acme - they were good but then she told me that washing can be a problem and not to wash too often due to shrinkage. Huh!! White jeans unwashable, "dry clean”. No that must be a joke. So they're still there.

 

As it absolutely poured down over the Bank Holiday I went to the cinema. I saw a really wonderful film - 45 Years. Yes it's a little slow but definitely worth the wait. The acting is immense! Charlotte Rampling gives a masterclass in restraint and Tom Courtney is also a giant on the screen. It deals with lives of maybe and regret!

So as Autumn has abruptly landed, if you've been good and sorted out your winter clothes, enjoy! Otherwise hurry up! (what have you been doing?) It's getting chilly…

Happy Shopping

 

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Is this what happens with friends and family?