http://www.velvetmag.co.uk/alice-temperley-makes-headlines

Alice Temperley Makes Headlines

Kate Midddleton’s favourite designer Alice Temperley showcased her AW13 collection at London Fashion on Sunday 17th February.
Her models came walking down the catwalk like movie screen goddesses from a golden era. Round black Cutler & Gross sunglass, leather black gloves and sleeveless silk high-waisted fifties full skirted dresses with sumptuous Emerald Green patterns was the look for Temperley.
One can instantly see that that Alice Temperley’s influence came from Tippi Hedren. Darker in tone than her previous collection, the Hitchcock film Bird’s saw her women look sophisticated, feminine but minus the fragility. There was a strong case of structured tailoring mixed with loose whimsical bohemia gowns that struck of the 20s. Art deco prints and sheer panels saw this look as collaboration between the era of glamour for the 20s and 50s.

Velvet will of course be watching with a keen eye to see how the Somerset collection, presented by John Lewis will compare at Wednesday’s Best Of British Night at Cambridge Style Week. Key Trends to look out for will be luxury so the Somerset collection is likely to feature Cashmere, Ivory Silk with contrast black Lace and Jacquard print.
www.cambridgestyleweek.com
Article by Selina Daley

An Afternoon At Island Hall

On Sunday the 17^th of February I went along to Island Hall’s Valentine Celebration Tea, owned by the Vane Percy family. I admit that I was dubious about throwing myself into such uber romance being a singleton. I also admit that taking my recently engaged friend who had met all at the house on that Saturday for her possible wedding venue might have sent any brave singleton running for the hills.

Instead we were greeted upon arrival by Grace Vane Percy one of Christopher and Lady Linda Vane Percy’s children. The warm and friendly chat between us instantly made one feel at home. There was no reluctance in sharing their stunning home with the public, only genuine, put simply, grace. Straight away I took in the beauty of the interior of the house and unlike some that you don’t quite feel comfortable walking round in, this was different for the family loved every minute of hosting. Christopher proudly took us round the house re-canting stories of their family history with such pride. I felt myself smiling the whole day. The gold bedroom in which Grace’s wedding dress is on display is a must for anyone, and any bride would feel a princess getting ready in that room. The walls in the room are decked with rich historical material and every part of every room hosts a gem.

The Valentine Celebration consisted of a room of incredible fans on show from The Fan Circle International and lovingly handmade Victorian cards that were part of the family and Linda quite enjoyed her part in talking of them fondly.  Then we sat down to a lovely Tea with cakes and sandwiches, and of course optional glass of champagne. The proceeds of the event are for the families chosen charities (The charities are his Mayor's Charities (he is town Mayor this year) they are Magpas - The Emergency Medical Charity www.magpas.org.uk & Raise The Roof - St Mary's Godmanchester Church roof restoration fund). Surely every Sunday should be this fun and wonderful!

Who could fail to be moved by such a wonderful welcome? The bride to be was praised for her beauty by all and made to feel quite special, and that is before the day itself. At one point Christopher was telling the guests about her fiancé who was absent as he had to go back to Italy for work. Personally I found this a sign of just how special the family are, and how any wedding day would be just as special to them. I can see that a wedding at Island Hall would be of a kind of intimate splendour that is hard to come across.

 I know I cannot wait to keep my eye out on any other events. It really is enjoyable for all. For Further info: http://www.islandhall.com/