What better proposition on a Sunday afternoon, in south London, than to embark upon a safari? A Garden Safari, that is, celebrating 'hidden gems and unexpected delights' within the environs of Sydenham Hill. A handful of charming private gardens opened their gates to the paying public, in aid of Dulwich Helpline & Southwark Churches Care*. I found perfect resting spots in each one, between woodland and herbaceous border, 'twixt organic vegetable patch and free-range chicken run, at the end of which I enjoyed a cup of tea and a home-made cake. Sporting a 'wild-life' dress from Timberland, (last seen in 'It's a jungle out there... or rather in here'), I wore more green accessories from the livid African beads and floral enamel ring, to a favourite pair of forest-green wedges from Menorca's c doux, purchased at Stella C. The clutch is '50s Hong Kong, adorned with an embroidered dragon and elephants in bone, and a recent purchase in Lewes, from Cliffe Antiques Centre.
*DHSCC provides friendship, practical help and emotional support to isolated older people in the community
Even though we're only into March, the weather has been surprisingly good of late, and what better way to embrace the sun, than wear sunshine colours... and a pair of Tom Ford sunnies. My most recent purchase, from south London boutique, Paraphernalia, is the Christopher Kane psychedelically-patterned cardigan, that reminds me of being in a chemistry lab circa 1979! Another statement colour is the vivid turquoise, in the jeans by Met from the Living and Giving shop in Dulwich which opened its doors in December. It is a charity concept that was set up by Mary Portas, and developed for Save the Children, following her TV series Mary Queen of Charity Shops. To mellow down the look is an old tan bucket bag, and a pair of comfy, but quirky, Ras boots!
I love London brick... particularly on Edwardian houses where rich earthy terracottas prevail. Even stormy grey weather does not cool this colour, nor indeed any of my clothes which layer tobaccos and tans with darkest chocolates and a flash of orange (lipstick by Dior). Newly-purchased Ralph Lauren suede shirt complements my tan suede, Western-influenced Jigsaw skirt as does my tweed jacket from Olsen. A dash of Mongolian lamb to keep me warm, chunky wedge boots by Ash and my new favourite African woven bag bought at a local charity shop, pour more earthy tones into the picture. Backdrop upon London brick is a recent street-art piece, off Lordship Lane. It also featured in May's 'Tea with a bee' when freshly-painted as part of Dulwich Street Art festival.
