(Chiltern Firehouse, London’s latest pièce de résistance restaurant and bar)
London is always on our list of the best of the best. But with the advent of summer and major traveling upon us, we thought we’d share some of the top things you should check out in London – from art, to food, to the latest in beauty, courtesy of Harrod’s. So whatever your fancy, there’s a little something for everyone.
BEST ART EXHIBITION IN A MUSEUM: UNDRESSED: A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERWEAR @ THE VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM
This exhibition tells the story of underwear design from the 18th century to the present day. It explores the intimate relationship between underwear and fashion and its role in moulding the body to a fashionable ideal. Underwear is sometimes controversial, sparking debates about health and hygiene, body image and stereotyping. Its cut, fit, fabric and decoration reflect changing attitudes to gender, sex and morality; shifting notions of public and private; and innovations in fabric technology and design.
Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL, United Kingdom
BEST LOCAL DESIGNER TO TAKE CARE OF YOU: JACQUES AZAGURY
Moroccan born Jacques Azagury hit the fashion scene in a big way in the 80’s, when he became famous for working with the late Princess Diana. His pulse-raising evening wear is the red carpet choice of many leading women; cut with an artist’s precision to create an exquisite silhouette that has become symbolic with British style, elegance and sophistication.
He has dressed the likes of Dame Helen Mirren, Elizabeth “Downton Abbey” McGovern, and a myriad of celebrities and frequently the go to source for the ladies of London society. Azagury is a true original, designing bespoke gowns for over thirty years.
(One of Azagury’s latest fragrances)
He’s also launched a new line of fragrances, which you can find here, but we recommend going by his Knightsbridge store for the ultimate in couture and elegance and meeting with the man first hand.
Azagury: 50 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7JN
Tel. 020 7245 1216
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BEST NEW PRODUCT AT HARRODS: NURSE JAMIE’S EGF PLATINUM SET.
The EGF Platinum System is a combination of an opulent cream and an elixir that when used together creates an unparalleled combination that will leave skin feeling hydrated, toned, and restored, transforming it into ageless perfection. Developed by Nurse Jamie, whose celebrity following in Los Angeles is a veritable who’s who of Hollywood, developed the line exclusively for Harrods.
The highlight: The EGF Platinum 7 which contains a lavish, proprietary blend of 7 active ingredients including platinum, 24K gold, Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and stem cells known to redefine and restore the skin. The partnership of pure platinum and 24K gold work together a GPS, providing a roadmap for nutrients to penetrate the skin for optimal results.
A nutrient-infused combination with 3 key essential oils, the EGF Platinum 3 imparts intense hydration and a more youthful, radiant glow.The EGF platinum set retails for about $1,500 US.
To purchase, go to Harrods.com.
BEST DEPARTMENT STORE WITHOUT THE DEPARTMENT STORE FEEL: MATCHES LONDON.
(The Nottinghill division of Matches)
Since the first store opened near Tom and Ruth Chapman’s home in Wimbledon in 1987, MATCHESFASHION.COM has been synonymous with modern luxury shopping. Today, it is also an iconic online retail experience, trusted by a fashion-literate clientele the world over, which brings together the very best established and new international labels.
While online is going gangbusters, there’s nothing like stepping inside an intimate store for the full on customer service experience.
BEST HOTEL: THE LONDON EDITION.
(A one bedroom suite terrace at the London Edition, overlooking Fitzrovia)
We recently wrote about the London Edition here, but for this round-up felt there’s really no better place to stay right now. It’s central, it’s chic, and it’s the perfect melding of traditional and up and coming in design.
The London Edition, 10 Berners Street, London, W1T 3NP UK
Ph: 020 7781 0000
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BEST RESTAURANT (AND SCENE): CHILTERN FIREHOUSE.
(Chiltern Firehouse before the scene hits full tilt.)
Restaurateur André Balazs of Chateau Marmont fame has opened up his first establishment in London, and it’s a zinger – the Chiltern Firehouse. In just a few short months, the restaurant has seen the likes of David Beckham, Prince Harry, Lily Allen, former President Bill Clinton, and Kiera Knightley (though not all at the same table). If you want to check it out, better plan on a bit of a wait: right now the tables are booked through the end of summer.
Chiltern Firehouse, One Chiltern Street; Marylebone; London W1U 7PA. [email protected]
Ph: 020 7073 7676
BEST PLACE FOR AFTERNOON TEA: BROWN’S HOTEL.
(Brown’s Tea Room)
If Chiltern’s not your scene and you prefer something a little more mellow, pop over to Rocco Forte’s London mainstay, Brown’s. Queen Victoria was once a fan, and their English Tea Room is the pinnacle of cozy, comfortable and high end.
Take your pick from over 17 teas — including Brown’s own blend — and a selection of sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries. The surroundings are a perfect blend of old and new. Original wood panelling and antique fireplaces sit comfortably with Paul Smith floor lamps and contemporary artwork.
Brown’s Hotel: Albemarle St, London W1S 4BP, United Kingdom
BEST LATTE OUTSIDE OF A HOTEL: TAP COFFEE
(Tap Coffee Wardour Street)
Forever our favorite. Always packed, always chill, Tap Coffee in it’s various locales around town (there are 3 at the moment), is the ultimate slap in the face to Starbuck’s. It has character, charm, communal tables, and the best coffee – and staff – you’ll find just about anywhere – and we don’t just mean London.
Tap Coffee: 193, Wardour St, London W1F 8ZF, United Kingdom
Ph:+44 20 7580 2163