I love the Courtauld Gallery, set in one corner of the neo-classical glamour that is Somerset House, and boasting some fine views of the Thames on its uppermost floors. The latter location, part of the Courtauld Institute of Art, is a good spot for the interesting and absorbing shows it stages - the latest being Georgiana Houghton: Spirit Drawings. Earlier in the month, I caught this summer showcase of a most unusual, little-known Victorian artist (1814-1884) whose work is mainly to be found in Melbourne, Australia, at The Victorian Spiritualists' Union. Perhaps the Aussies were onto something... because her work was well before its time.
This collection of abstract watercolours, not seen in the UK for more than a century, capture a kind of spiritual energy (Ms Houghton was also a spiritual medium and this area of interest clearly informed her artistic endeavours) with their magical and heavenly shapes and forms. A truly memorable and other-worldly show.
For ease, I'm wearing a simple linen shift (made in Italy, purchased in Crystal Palace) and my comfortable Supergas, excellent for walk-abouts and those cobbles in the Somerset House courtyard. For essential colour, under changeable September skies, I added a dash of orange with my Parosh top, and lots of ethnic beads and bag. The sunnies are by Moschino. The location are the environs of Somerset House, now a mecca for the creative arts, and with its own fine spirit of place.
You can't beat a good pair of jeans, especially if they're in stand-out orange! These vintage Versace's are actually borrowed from my daughter, yet they fit wonderfully, and the colour, bright and bold, is just what this British weather needs. I'm not one for mixing casual with formal, but I was otherwise persuaded, and the grey and orange compliment each other beautifully. The blazer, by MaxMara, is part of a suit, seen in 'Suited for a Hampshire Wedding'. Accessoried with a stingray bag, from Paraphernalia, a pair of plastic heels by Vivienne Westwood for Melissa, and Dior sunnies, of course...
Last weekend I took myself along to the celebrations in Chinatown, in London's West End to welcome in the Year of the Goat/Sheep. What to wear? My favourite vintage cheongsam in green, a colour which is said to promote health and harmony in Chinese culture. To keep out the chill factor, I put on my newest purchase, a Michael Kors puffer jacket, in flat-out orange, along with a home-knit scarf (thank you, Mary). More shades of orange with my vintage jewellery and woven nylon bag. And what to wear in my hair? Why, a handful of cocktail sticks, of course. And after the jam-packed festivities, I beat a hasty retreat on a Boris bike. Gung Hay Fat Choy!
Celebrated a birthday last night, fittingly with bubbly, cake and music, but alas at 25, not my own, but that of successful local store, The Dulwich Trader. The independent, award-winning emporium with its three shops, has been trading in the manor of Dulwich for 25 years. It attracted a select crowd of faithful customers to its flagship in Croxted Road to celebrate with champagne, cupcakes from Milly and Grace Cupcakes and Bakes, and a trio of cool young musicians: Matt, Joe and Huw. The Dulwich Trader, with its on-trend stock and personable service, has been a fail-safe destination for those seeking pretty presents to a wool winter coat - I noticed a pretty powder-blue one by Helene Berman. I opted for non-wintry whites since I still haven't packed away my summer wardrobe so it was 'boyfriend' jeans by Current/Elliott, a chiffon top by DKNY, a handknit mini-poncho, and a skull-print scarf (a present from Mexico). I even slung on some strappy sandals, by Moda in Pelle, for the evening which showcased the store's recent makeover. Happy trading!
Blue skies up in North Yorkshire appear very rarely, so I'm making the most of Whitby, along with the sea, the sand and a Jacques Yves Cousteau quote: "The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever". Typically, beach breaks include bikinis and flip-flops, but the temperatures here are forcing me to resort to a '70s shaggy coat by Panda. Alongside, I've opted for a pair of bold '90s Versace jeans and some simple shoes by Office. Of course, the look (and holiday) wouldn't be complete without these Topshop sunnies.
