There's nothing quite like a bit of Georgian architecture to uplift the spirit and a lovely local example is Belair House: Bar, Dining and Social, at 1 Gallery Road, Dulwich. Putting the long and the short of it together, I opted for a long suede coat and fringed scarf for cover, and my shortest skirt by Paul Smith, with garden florals to suit the bosky surroundings. A dash of red in the Chinese-style Equipment top and favourite Dior lipstick, Dolce Vita, gave me a decent dash of tomato to complement the colours in my '50s Hong Kong clutch, bought this summer at Cliffe Antiques Centre, East Sussex. The charming vintage shoes by Joseph have a distinctly Georgian look whilst the Prada sunnies are decidedly Rococo.
Pop this in your diary: from November 2nd, Belair House will be holding a history exhibition, 'Through the Ages', including funny, happy and interesting memories from local residents.
From a statement green Dior feathered hat, to a chic vintage gold dress, and a charming little black Prada bag, Paraphernalia had it all! Last month local ladies came together to showcase fabulous looks from the south London boutique. Both Honor Oak and Crofton Park businesses, including Pat-a-Cake, Star Cafe, The White Room, Arlo and Moe and Mr Lawrence Wine Bar, joined in the day-long celebrations, which spilled out onto the street. My looks ranged from an Elspeth Gibson sleek black dress, to Marni culottes with a vintage fur. Look out for the next 'fest' on Saturday 6 December!
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
