Maybourne Brochure S/S2025

J12 BLEUDIAMOND TOURBILLON Thenew J12inexclusive blue ceramic, designed andassembled by theCHA NELManufacture. Sapphiresand diamonds.C ALIBRE 5FlyingTourbillon HauteHorlogerieMovement.

FROM THE DESK OF

Fashions come and go. Just ask Claridge’s artist-inresidence David Downton, who has seen many a trend rise and fall in his years illustrating runways. But some styles, people and places rise above the merely fashionable and transcend into true luxury.

Mayfair is such a place. The extraordinary architecture, red-brick edi ces, stucco façades and verdant gardens are instantly recognisable, distinguishing the neighbourhood from almost every other part of London. That’s one of many reasons we are proud to call it our home. From its earliest days, this extraordinary place in the heart of the capital has been a beacon of glamour and sophistication, drawing visitors from around the world to see and be seen.

In this issue, we celebrate Mayfair as Maybourne’s birthplace – we were literally ‘born in Mayfair’ – nding delight and wonder in its compact yet signi cant selection of streets. It is here that international brands plant flagship stores; ne art nds its way into important collections; and royals, artists and the international elite discover a place they can, even if only temporarily, call home.

And from one celebrated area to another: anyone who knows Paris will tell you that Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the place to go when one nds oneself in the city of light. We are delighted to join this chic locale and its fashionable residents with the forthcoming Maybourne Saint-Germain: a palace-style hotel and twenty-three residences that will debut in 2027.

Back home in London, we are pleased to announce the return of Thomas Kochs to Claridge’s in the role of Managing Director. Thomas served as General Manager from 2009 to 2015 at this iconic hotel and, as with all of our guests, we are very glad to welcome his return.

Finally, wherever you are in the world, we wish you all a wonderful summer ahead.

Maybourne CEO Maybourne CEO

Billie Scheepers

is a photographer and director specialising in portraiture, fashion and beauty. Her work has been published in Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair and Vogue Hong Kong. She captures the decadent eccentricity of Mayfair for this issue’s cover story. Billie’s summer plans include outdoor cinema screenings and adventures with loved ones.

90

Katy Young

is the group luxury beauty director of Elle UK and Harper’s Bazaar UK. In this issue, she speaks to the world-class talents shaping Surrenne’s pioneering spa o ering. This summer, Katy will be setting the mood with ‘Here Comes the Sun’ by The Beatles and making the most of long, uplifting evenings with good friends.

Contributor s

P. 30

Virginia Bates and Eric Underwood

Two of our absolute favourites, Eric and Virginia are part of our Claridge’s family. Virginia is a model, former actress and London’s vintage style queen, while Eric is a former soloist with the Royal Ballet. Together these two close friends help us bring the magic of Mayfair alive in our cover feature.

Over the summer, Virginia plans to divide her time between London and Ibiza, where she has inherited one of the oldest ncas on the island, and revive her horror- lm career, having appeared as a vampire in a new British movie. Eric, meanwhile, plans to nd a publisher for his forthcoming memoir, host retreats on the Buckinghamshire farm he shares with his husband and spend a little time beside the seaside in both Ibiza and Cornwall.

Tom Parker Bowles

is Esquire ’s food editor, a restaurant critic on The Mail on Sunday and a MasterChef judge. In this issue, he celebrates the enduring pleasure of the long lunch. This summer, he plans to read When the Going Was Good by erstwhile Vanity Fair editor Graydon Carter; a book that, Tom assures us, features The Connaught.

Nicky Yates

is a London-based fashion stylist who collaborates with A-list talent and global luxury brands. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Hollywood Reporter and The Sunday Times. She styles Eric Underwood and Virginia Bates for our Mayfair cover story. This summer, she plans to trek through Australia’s Daintree Rainforest with her family, following the beautiful Mossman River on foot.

76

Ming Lui is a contributing editor for Robb Report Monaco and writes for Financial Times, The New York Times, Vogue and Vanity Fair. She covers the new Cartier exhibition at the V&A Museum and selects her sparkling standouts from this season’s jewellery. This summer, she’s looking forward to getting stuck into a Jilly Cooper novel or two.

60

Hannah Betts

is a feature writer and columnist. Alongside contributing to The Times and The Telegraph, she writes about beauty for the Daily Mail. This issue, she covers the enduring influence of Art Deco and the Roaring Twenties. Summer will see her reading Edith Warton and enjoying the quiet of London in August.

BEVERLY HILLS THE MAYBOURNE RIVIERA

Contributor s

CLARIDGE’S THE CONNAUGHT THE BERKELEY THE EMORY THE MAYBOURNE

BEVERLY HILLS THE MAYBOURNE RIVIERA

Rebecca Cope is a writer who has been featured in Vogue, Elle, HTSI and The Sunday Times Magazine. She tucks into the red-carpetthemed treats of The Maybourne Beverly Hills’ new Prêt-à-Portea collection. This season, Rebecca plans to host lots of garden parties for her friends and for those of her two-year-old daughter, soundtracked by Major Lazer and DJ Snake’s ‘Lean On’.

Leonie Cooper

is food and drink editor of Time Out London. She has also has been published in The Independent, The Guardian and Condé Nast Traveller. She pulls up a chair at La Môme London, celebrating the restaurant’s hotly anticipated launch at The Berkeley. This summer, Leonie looks forward to reading If You’re a Girl by Ann Rower and seeing performances by Black Sabbath and Slayer. P. 52

John O’Ceallaigh

is a journalist and podcast host specialising in luxury travel, and founder of the Lute travel consultancy. He writes about the fascinating story behind Eileen Gray’s E-1027, as the French Riviera landmark approaches its centenary. This summer, he plans to explore Georgia, Madagascar and Pakistan.

Alex Rayner

Rick Jordan

is a contributing editor for Condé Nast Traveller and writes for The Telegraph and The Times, among other titles. This issue, he writes about The Connaught’s Suite Collection experience, and gets his shoes shined in the process. This summer, he plans to take said shoes to learn how to Lindy Hop, and will decide where to take his son post-GCSEs: Mexico or Japan.

Lauren Cochrane is a senior fashion writer for The Guardian and author of The Ten: The Stories Behind the Fashion Classics. This issue sees her chart the growing influence of British style icons in Paris – including Maybourne’s upcoming arrival in 2027. Lauren’s summer goals include getting time away and relaxing on the beach with a good book.

is acting editor of Maybourne magazine. He has held editorial positions at The Face and Dazed & Confused, contributes to The Guardian and The Sunday Times, and wrote this issue’s cover story. This summer he plans to spend time in the mountains and beside the sea, so his summer books are Thomas Mann’s The Magic Mountain and Ernest Hemingway’s To Have and Have Not

Naomi Pike is a commissioning editor for Elle UK and a contributor to The Guardian, The Cut and The Sunday Times Style. She is also a consultant for brands in the fashion and beauty space. She picks her looks for the season in this issue. Summer will nd her shopping for vintage clothes and getting stuck into classic literature.

Henry Southan

is a food writer, podcaster and social media personality. He has been published in GQ , The Standard and The Good Food Guide. A lifelong club sandwich devotee, he tries some of the best in London for this issue. Henry’s summer plans involve drinking his weight in cold martinis.

P. 66

CLARIDGE’S

Contents

Summer 2025

18 WITH LOVE

Postcard-sized local insights from the RHS Director of Shows, the restaurateurs behind La Môme and LA Design Festival’s executive creative director

20 WHAT TO PACK

Case notes for trips to see Kylie Minogue in Los Angeles, the reunited Oasis in London and the FIA E-Prix in Monaco

24 TALKING HEADS

As the mercury rises, Jasper Conran OBE, Annoushka Ducas, Charlie Casely-Hayford and other friends describe how they’ll be celebrating summer in their city

30 HIGH SOCIETY

Dancer Eric Underwood and actress-turned-style-maven

Virigina Bates celebrate Mayfair –the original, gilded neighbourhood

36 THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF MAYFAIR

Our illustrated map to the best parts of the original gilded neighbourhood

39 SUMMER LIVING

Celebrating a century of swimming and style… bringing Buenos Aires vibes to The Emory Rooftop Bar… suites to suit your summer style… Dante’s cooling cocktails… Riviera-style terrace dining in the heart of London… summer brows… sublime Serpentine pavilions… poolside paintings… chic beach clubs… picturesque hiking trails in LA… and a dash of Maybourne mixology

57 SHINE ON Atop a John Lobb shoeshine chair, perfect Martini in hand, Rick Jordan experiences the thrills of The Connaught’s suite life

60 TWENTIES VISION

Why, one hundred years after the birth of Art Deco, are we still in thrall to the Roaring Twenties? Hannah Betts traces the contemporary allure of the Jazz Age

CLARIDGE’S THE CONNAUGHT THE BERKELEY THE EMORY THE MAYBOURNE BEVERLY HILLS THE MAYBOURNE RIVIERA

66 ACE OF CLUBS

Writer and podcaster Henry Southan declares his dedication to the club sandwich

68 CAKE WALK

Lights! Camera! Icing! The Maybourne Beverly Hills’ new patisserie offering reimagines headline-making red-carpet moments as teatime treats

72 MODERNE LOVE

A century ago, architect

Eileen Grey changed the Riviera’s cultural heritage forever.

John O’Ceallaigh tells the tale

78 THE LONG LUNCH REVIVAL

Author, food editor, restaurant critic and MasterChef judge Tom Parker Bowles pays tribute to the midday marathon

82 MONARCH OF THE GEMS

A right royal Cartier spectacular at the V&A museum goes under Ming Liu’s microscope

86 TO PARIS, WITH LOVE

How do so many British fashion talents – and Maybourne – make their mark on the city of light?

Lauren Cochrane investigates

CLARIDGE’S Brook Street, London W1K 4HR +44 (0)20 7629 8860 claridges.co.uk

THE EMORY

Old Barrack Yard, London SW1X 7NP +44 (0)20 7862 5200 the-emory.co.uk

90 MIND, BODY AND SURRENNE

Brain scans and book clubs are all part of the service at Surrenne. Katy Young speaks to the practitioners and creatives

95 WATCHES

A timely update by Bill Prince

97 JEWELLERY

Ming Lui’s shiny selection

99 MENSWEAR

Stephen Doig’s summer picks

THE CONNAUGHT Carlos Place, London W1K 2AL +44 (0)20 7499 7070 the-connaught.co.uk

THE MAYBOURNE RIVIERA 1551 Rte de la Turbie 06190, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin +33 4 93 37 50 00 maybourneriviera.com

101 WOMENSWEAR

Naomi Pike’s best of the season

103 BEAUTY NEWS

Billie Bhatia’s beauty buys

106 CHECK OUT

News from around Maybourne

111 PARTY PAGES

Behind the scenes at the Brits, the Golden Globes and beyond

117 WHEN DAVID MET ZANDRA RHODES

British fashion’s punk princess sits for her portrait by the Claridge’s artist in residence

THE BERKELEY Wilton Place, London SW1X 7RL +44 (0)20 7235 6000 the-berkeley.co.uk

THE MAYBOURNE BEVERLY HILLS 225 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills CA 90210 +1 310 860 7800 maybournebeverlyhills.com

Follow on Instagram: @claridgeshotel, @theconnaught, @the_berkeley, @themaybournebh, @themaybourneriviera, @theemorylondon For reservations please call +44 (0) 20 7107 8830, email reservations@maybourne.com or visit maybourne.com

Grzywacz

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Chris Wilson ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE James Fisher TO ADVERTISE hello@luux-media.com PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR Sophie Stoneham

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Andrew Barker, Jessica Bumpus, Luciana Bellini, Georgina Cohen, David Downton, Emma Victoria Reeve MAYBOURNE COMMUNICATIONS Paula Fitzherbert, Charlotte Alexander-Stace, Christina Norton, Erin Hamilton THE

-

Shelton Street, London WC2H 9JQ

With Love

SUMMER POSTCARDS FROM A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE LOCALS

Helena Pettit

LONDON

The Royal Horticultural Society Director celebrates green spaces

Tand José Pizarros’s Lolo in Bermondsey, which serves some of the best tapas I’ve ever eaten. Enjoy it any time of day with a crisp glass of rosé.

he streets burst to life with blossom-laden trees. The morning commute is brighter and warmer. It’s my favourite time of year to explore London, as its green pockets flourish and colour blooms, creating gardens and parks as unique and diverse as the city itself.

My partner and I love dining out and aim to try a new restaurant each week. There’s such an abundance of restaurants to suit every palate – some celebrated, others tucked away for those in the know. Favourites include Skye Gyngell’s Spring Restaurant in Somerset House

For lovers of musicals, I highly recommend The Devil Wears Prada at the Dominion Theatre. And I’m looking forward to the Tutankhamun: The Immersive Experience exhibition at Excel: there might be interesting inspiration for RHS shows.

This year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show will celebrate the joyful individuality of green spaces, with gardens for everyone from artists to dog lovers. I always leave Chelsea full of

grand plans, but end up just trying to keep my plants alive.

The Glastonbury of our world is the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. Against the dramatic backdrop of one of London’s grandest royal residences, it’s a summer staple. The festival feel is best enjoyed with a Fortnum & Mason picnic hamper beneath the trees that line the palace’s Long Water canal. And the gardens brim with planting and design ideas: vertical gardens for urban growers, a garden for bird lovers, and a healing garden for grow-your-own herbal remedies.

I love the excitement of London life in summer but can’t help but be drawn into its tranquil green spaces, to get lost among the flowers. At weekends, I head to the coast for relaxing seaside walks, before returning, refreshed, to the bustle.

London in the summertime

Catherine, Princess of Wales, visits the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival

Antoine & Ugo Lecorché

THE FRENCH RIVIERA

The Cannes restaurateurs behind La Môme London at The Berkeley

Summer sees the French Riviera come to life with long, golden days. The sea is warm and endless, and rosé flows from La Môme Plage on La Croisette to the vibrant Rue Florian.

streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Mougins.

A day o is rare but, when it happens, it has to be somewhere quiet. We head to the Esterel massif for its red cli s against deep blue sky when we need space, or the Îles de Lérins, which are just a short boat ride from Cannes and feel like another world. And the timeless island of Saint-Honorat is inhabited by monks who have made wine in the same way for centuries.

Chez Bruno in Lorgues is the place to dine. It’s further inland, but worth every kilometre for the tru les and wine. We like places with stories and soul. In Cannes, the Louis Julian jewellery store is

an institution: discreet and elegant, with a deep connection to the city. We named one of our cocktails after it at La Môme.

For art lovers, The Maeght Foundation is a must, although the energy of pop-up galleries is also wonderful. And the real magic happens when you stumble upon an artist you’ve never heard of in the small

On Sundays, we visit Marché Forville, selecting cheeses, vegetables and seafood from local producers. Fresh ingredients, good company and a bottle of wine – that’s the Riviera way.

The Cannes Film Festival brings its own madness, but the best moments are unplanned – the nights we remember most aren’t in the diary. Monte Carlo takes centre stage for the pure adrenalin of the Grand Prix motor race, and there’s no better place to drink it in than La Môme Monte-Carlo, where Port Hercules views mingle with the thrilling sound of engines roaring through the city.

La Môme celebrates its tenth anniversary in May, so we’re hoping to have a great night to celebrate!

Erika Abrams

LA Design Festival’s Executive

Creative Director spotlights the city’s best local secrets

With its ambient scent of desert sage and sunscreen, Los Angeles is an enchanting city. This is a city that is generous when you move through it with curiosity.

As soon as I land at LAX, I minimise jet lag with a stop at

Mike’s Deli on Slauson (order the Mailman lettuce wrap). A bright playlist also helps, such as ‘Winter Retrograde,’ curated by designer Silas Munro for LA Design Festival’s Spotify.

On the Westside, check out RVR (pronounced ‘river’), a California-influenced Japanese izakaya with an impeccable cocktail program, helmed by Chef Travis Lett. The sensory designers from the Kenzan studio often DJ there. There is also Juliet:a lovely spot for a little French lunch in Culver City. Its wines are exceptional. Nearby, Arcana Books specialises in rare books on art and design.

‘Beverly Hills is everything you expect: opulent and sun-drenched’

Nearby, the Southern Guild and Rele art galleries near Western and Melrose always have interesting shows.

Next, discover a mix of treasures Downtown. Departamento is a clothing store featuring pieces from both established and emerging designers. I also love the traditional Italian food served at Factory Kitchen.

In the Hollywood area, File Systems of Co ee is a conceptdriven shop o ering beautiful co ee. both

Make time to explore the ROW DTLA shopping centre, home to Kato, a Michelin-starred Taiwanese omakase restaurant, and Bodega, a ‘hidden in plain sight’ retail space blending fashion, art and design. The Friday Gallery shifts its theme seasonally, o ering a rotating mix of art and design in a thoughtful way.

Beverly Hills is everything you expect it to be: opulent, sun-drenched and lined with palms. Touring Greystone Mansion and Gardens or the Virginia Robinson Gardens is a worthy way to spend an afternoon. Enjoy classic dining at The Grill on the Alley, or sundown margaritas with Century City views at Bar on 4 at Neiman Marcus, located in the men’s department. And, of course, martini hour at Dante is not to be missed, especially when paired with oysters and fries.

Above: the Esterel massif.

Right: La Môme, Cannes

Above: Virginia Robinson Gardens. Left: The Dante Martini

BEVERLY HILLS

Oasis at Wembley Stadium

Oasis are back and it’s the gig of the year - if you were lucky enough to snag tickets! With dates in July, August and September at Wembley Stadium, it’s going to be a memorable event that puts your vocal cords as well as your nineties-noughties style to the test (the boys have always been noted for what they wear – Liam even founded fashion label Pretty Green back in 2009). Think Britpop cool and nods of nostalgia when it comes to putting your out t together: polo necks and light summer parkas should do it. wembleystadium.com

Mac, Connolly Shirt, Soeur

Hat, Maison Michel

Trainers, Adidas at Mytheresa

Boots, Jimmy Choo

Dress, Maje

Sunglasses, Brunello Cucinelli

Skirt, Malene Birger at Harvey Nichols

Dress, Rick Owens at Mytheresa

Jacket, KWay

Belt, Roger Vivier

Ring, Anuka

Necklace, YSSO

Jogging trouser, Dior

Skirt, Mo&Co

Jacket, Vince

Cardigan, Miu Miu at Mytheresa

Ring, Bear Brooksbank

Loafer, Dior

Jacket, Loewe at Selfridges

Boots, Khaite at Selfridges

Shirt, Rabanne at Harvey Nichols

Sunglasses, Lindberg

Bracelet, Laura Vann

Kylie Minogue’s arena tour in LA

Pop princess Kylie Minogue wraps up her North American tour in LA in May at the Crypto.com arena. She’s a fashion icon who isn’t afraid to dress up, so this is a concert to have fun at, with a wardrobe to match. Sequins, sparkle, neon, party dresses, eye-catching accessories… nothing is o -limits and you have at least twenty years of the star’s fashion archives to take inspiration from. kylie.com/live

Hat, Maison Michel

Earrings, Tasaki

Lipstick, Code8

Dress, Zimmermann at Harvey Nichols

Necklace, Lito

Bracelet, Melissa Kaye

Trousers, Ganni

Jacket, Dior

Ear cu Repossi

Sunglasses, Alaïa

Dress, Prada at Selfridges

Skirt, Acne Studios at Mytheresa

Dress, KNWLS at Harvey Nichols

Bag, Diesel at Selfridges

Top, Huishan Zhang at Selfridges

Jeans, Maje

Shoes, Jimmy Choo

Bag, J&M Davidson

Shoes, Roger Vivier Body,, Alaïa at Harvey Nichols Top, Maje

T-shirt, Mother

Bangle, By Pariah

Dress, Self-Portrait

Monaco E-Prix in Monte Carlo

On the third and fourth of May, Monaco hosts the FIA E-Prix, featuring 100 per cent electric race cars. Whether you watch from a VIP terrace or the stands, the event promises lots of action. Need help selecting an out t to suit the occasion? Lean into a French Riviera style. Think o -duty sports classics, sophisticated casualwear – and de nitely a sun hat. aformulae.com

Polo top, Tory Burch

Bag, Iseabal Hendry

Sandals, Valentino Garavani at Mytheresa

Espadrilles, Malone Souliers

Visor, Eres

Trousers, Mother

Skirt, Philippa London Earrings, Lito

Earrings, Tasaki

Bag, Brunello Cucinelli

Zip-up top, Madeleine Thompson

Jacket, Dior

Bag, Tommy Hil ger

Shoes, Roger Vivier

Hat, Roger Vivier

Cap, Soeur Ring, Repossi

Trainers, Équipement De Vie

Blouse, Louis Vuitton

Bracelet, Ananya

Jogging trousers, Louis Vuitton

Jumpsuit, Jane

Bag, Penelope Chilvers

JASON MORAIS

Global Events Designer

‘After a long British winter, the beginning of summer in London is best felt in the cool embrace of Hampstead Heath’s swimming ponds—where you can shed the hurried pace of city life and dive into waters that have held centuries of whispered secrets. Here, beneath a canopy of green, the season arrives not with fanfare, but with the quiet thrill of sunwarmed skin, rippling reflections, and the shared joy of a fleeting, golden escape.’

PHILLIPA LEPLEY

The Queen of Tulle Bridal Designer

‘Summer is when London’s cultural scene comes to life – a time to draw fresh inspiration for the year ahead. I never miss the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition: it’s one of the highlights of my year. Equally anticipated is the Chelsea Flower Show. As a gardener and grower, I find inspirations for my collections and my garden in its artistry and innovation. Trips to the Royal Ballet always offer feminine inspiration and drive me forward. If I hit the night scene, 5 Hertford Street is my go-to, energised by Rifat Ozbek’s genius schemes. I also always find time for a trip to the Riviera. The landscapes never fail to leave me feeling inspired.’

HOW WILL YOU BE CELEBRATING THE START OF IN YOUR JASPER CONRAN OBE

Summer City?

AS THE MERCURY RISES, OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SHARE THEIR PLANS FOR THE WARMER MONTHS

TOM ATHRON

The Gourmet Grocer CEO at Fortnum & Mason

‘For some, the start of summer is signalled by the Chelsea Flower Show, or the Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy. But for me, summer doesn’t officially start until the first ball is bowled on day one of the Lord’s test match in July. This year, England play India, and Lord’s will be the third test in a five-match series. If you can’t access the top level of the Pavilion – which is members-only but from where the view is frankly unrivalled – any stand will do. India is always strongly supported, which makes for a great vibe, and the food and drink at Lord’s these days has breadth and depth.’

The Original Designer

‘I always look forward to an early morning walk in Hyde Park. It inspires optimism for the day ahead. I’ll also spend time in Morocco, where I have two hotels. L’Hôtel Marrakech is a discreet hideaway, a few minutes from the bustle of the souk. And summer at Villa Mabrouka, my hotel in Tangier, is magical. The garden comes alive with the sound of songbirds and the scent of jasmine and orange blossom, and the sea views are glorious.’

JANE TAYLOR

The Milliner

‘Summer is our busiest season, filled with colour and excitement for the racing and wedding calendar. At our Knightsbridge atelier, my dedicated milliners craft elegant, feminine headwear, using heritage techniques in beautiful satins and timeless colourways.

I rarely have time for summer events, but I cherish morning walks through Kensington Park, listening to birdsong: a calm, meditative start to the day. We always mark the end of Royal Ascot with a team celebration, enjoying afternoon tea at one of London’s finest hotels.’

CHARLIE CASELY-HAYFORD

The Dandy Menswear Designer

‘Summers in London are always a season of discovery for me. I’m particularly excited for the opening of the V&A East Storehouse in May: its vast collection, including parts of the Agra colonnade, will offer a new perspective on global cultural heritage. My uncle, Gus CaselyHayford, is behind this incredible project, which makes it all the more special. I’m also looking forward to the eclectic summer programme at Sadler’s Wells East, which will bring a fresh spotlight to innovative performances and emerging talent. When I need a moment of calm, I’ll retreat with the fam to the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park – the perfect city sanctuary.’

LIZZY RUDD

The Wine Connoisseur Chair at Berry Bros. & Rudd

‘This summer will be about dining outside. I’m looking forward to savouring the sunshine in Pickering Place at Saint Jacques restaurant, nestled next to the home of Berry Bros. & Rudd, with a No.3 gin and tonic in hand. It will also be the first summer for the Hambledon Vineyard restaurant in Hampshire, overlooking the beautiful Chardonnay vines. It wouldn’t be a trip to Hambledon without a cool glass of English sparkling wine. I’m very much looking forward to trying their brand new Hambledon Blanc de Blanc.’

HELEN BROCKLEBANK

The British Cheerleader CEO at Walpole

‘The hottest ticket is as likely to be British Summer Time in Hyde Park as it is Ladies Day at Ascot. My own season will kick off with the Chelsea Flower Show, and close with the new Chelsea Arts Festival. And because I love the British combination of culture and sport, I’ll be at Goodwood for the races and at Glyndebourne for opera and picnics.’

PIP DURELL

The Minimalist Founder of With Nothing Underneath

‘I love when the temperatures rise and I can spend early mornings walking my dog in Battersea Park. As an ex-jewellery editor, I can’t resist the V&A’s Cartier exhibition. And as foodies, my husband and I want to try the new restaurant Dove. But best of all is heading for a weekend in Salcombe in Devon. It’s a chance to slow down, pair shorts and jumpers, and order oysters on the beachfront.’

ANNOUSHKA DUCAS

The Jeweller

‘This summer is shaping up to be a whirlwind of creativity and colour. In London, we’re bringing a burst of colour to sun-kissed necks with our new pendant collection: designed to layer with the Knuckle collection and add a delicious pop to every look. Then it’s off to Greece, where I’ll be visiting the atelier of my friend, the inimitable Celia Kritharioti. Her couture is a masterclass in craftsmanship, and I can’t wait to see her work up close. And then back to Sussex, where the Pallant House Gallery’s Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists exhibition is a must-see.’

SIR NICHOLAS COLERIDGE

The Custodian Chairman of Historic Royal Palaces and Provost, Eton College

‘There are four things I am greatly looking forward to this summer. The first is an exhibition called Dress Codes at Kensington Palace, followed by lunch or tea in the revamped Orangery next to the palace — such a beautiful spot. The third is the Cartier exhibition at the V&A, which is sure to be literally sparkling. And finally I intend spending many lunchtimes at the Arlington restaurant in Arlington Street: my all-time favourite hangout. Formerly known as Le Caprice, it has risen again under a new name but with all its magic intact.’

A RT&CULTURE

LONDON / CÔTE D’AZUR / BEVERLY HILLS

Art fair favourites, the iconic Perrotin Gallery, have nally selected a spot for their very rst London art space and where else should that be but – of course – Claridge’s. Opening with a show by Parisian artist JR (above), the gallery has a summer exhibition currently, which will be followed by a show from Jame St Findlay, winner of the Claridge’s Royal Academy Schools Art Prize. perrotin.com

Society

Words by ALEX RAYNER

Photography by BILLIE SCHEEPERS

Styling by NICKY YATES

Eric wears suit: Hawes & Curtis; cufflinks: Mouawad; shoes: Manolo Blahnik; Virginia wears outfit: model’s own

Starring, Claridge’s friends:

Dancer: ERIC UNDERWOOD Vintage Queen: VIRGINIA BATES

‘I come to Mayfair for a dose of Metropolitan amazingness’

– Eric Underwood

‘It’s such a smart, grown-up area. Once you’re here, you don’t need to put on heels’

– Virginia Bates

THIS PAGE Eric wears suit by Valentino; socks: Calzedonia; shoes: Manolo Blahnik. Virginia wears lace gloves by Sermoneta; clothes: model’s own. Shot in The Fumoir at Claridge’s OPPOSITE PAGE Suit: Hawes & Curtis; cufflinks: Mouawad; shoes: Manolo Blahnik. Shot in Claridge’s

There’s no place like home. For Maybourne, this rings especially true because that home is Mayfair – we were literally ‘born in Mayfair’ – and there is simply nowhere in the world quite like it.

Here, towering Regency townhouses, red-brick terraces and original Georgian stucco facades blend seamlessly with impressive modern architecture. Classic wrought-iron gates surround pictureperfect green squares which locals and visitors meander through as they go about their lives. Here, grand terraces, classical stonework and breathtakingly opulent designs all conspire to remind you that you are in a uniquely special place.

Somehow, Mayfair retains a gentle village feel – with farmshops selling fresh produce, bakeries for morning croissants and hardware shops o ering DIY essentials – while also being the epicentre of the world’s most famous art and fashion brands. Among the (admittedly fabulous) hairdressers and delis you will nd the HQ of many a major brand, from Chanel, Gucci and Manolo Blahnik to some of the world’s most important galleries - Philips, Gagosian and Perrotin to name a few.

A footprint in Mayfair is worth a great deal. A heritage here, to which we can attest after more than 200 years, is rather priceless. Of course, being charmed by Mayfair is nothing new. In 1935, armed with notepads and sensible shoes, Victor Watson and his secretary Marjory Phillips wandered 45,687 of London’s streets. Their mission: to select just twenty-two for a new, British version of the popular US board game, Monopoly. Among those twenty-two locations was one that everyone wanted – the key to the game, in fact: Mayfair. Landing on the royal blue square and buying as quick as you can is a good way to secure the upper hand. Back then, the average property in Mayfair would set you back £400 – the amount on the original board. Today it is, ahem, rather more. Current averages are close to £7 million, although the Monopoly board charges an altogether more modest £2,000, complete with a hotel. A bargain, frankly. So what is it about Mayfair that remains so alluring to this day?

‘It began as a market,’ explains Kate Hudson, archivist at Claridge’s. ‘The annual May Fair took place from 1686 to 1764 in what is now Shepherd Market.’ Soon after, the region was redeveloped – largely by the Grosvenor family, who commissioned lavish houses for London’s wealthy and advanced themselves in the process. Stunning squares were developed: Hanover, Berkeley, Grosvenor. Beautifully manicured gardens were circled by the wrought-iron fences for which London is now famous and opulent red-brick houses that fetched extortionate prices for the time. ‘The Grosvenors grew fabulously wealthy and became Dukes of Westminster, because of Mayfair and Belgravia,’ explains architectural historian Oliver Bradbury, author of The Lost Mansions of Mayfair. ‘The houses were massive. They were like palaces.’ One such residence – a Georgian guesthouse on Mayfair’s elegant Brook Street – evolved into Claridge’s. It would also become known as an annex of Buckingham Palace, such was the frequency of royal visitors. A ‘resort of kings and princes,’ declared The Times of London. For visitors, Claridge’s became as important a landmark as any of the royals’ own great houses. The dazzling hotel was joined by The Connaught on nearby Carlos Place. Both were perfectly placed to serve the great and the good: those who lived in Mayfair and those who wanted to. American captains of industry and European grandees flocked to London for trade, pleasure and the eclectic delights of the celebrated social ‘Season’. Even The Berkeley, now in the heart of Knightsbridge, started life in Mayfair, on the corner of Piccadilly and Berkeley Street – an essential stop for London’s most avant-garde set.

Today’s visitors are similarly enchanted by Mayfair’s maze of secret passages and picture-perfect squares. There are the arts of the Royal Academy; the galleries of Sotheby’s and Cork Street; the ne tailoring of Savile Row; the natural beauty of Mount Street Gardens and Berkeley Square; the exquisite dishes of restaurants in the most cordial surroundings anyone could desire; and the ornate, architectural façades to make even a Venetian sigh.

Points of interest abound. At Sotheby’s, you’ll nd the oldest man-made object in London: an Egyptian sculpture dating back to before 1600 BC, placed just above the door. The world’s most famous wine shop, Berry Bros. & Rudd, boasts a chamber of rare and vintage bottles, alongside twisting subterranean passages rumoured to lead directly to St James’s Palace. Another rumour holds that the entwined CC logos on lampposts in Westminster are the result of the Duke of Westminster’s infatuation with Coco Chanel in the 1920s. Westminster maintains that they merely stand for ‘city council’, but one should never let the truth get in the way of a good story.

Mayfair has also has taken a starring role in popular culture, from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice to Netflix’s Bridgerton . P.G. Wodehouse’s Bertie Wooster and his long-su ering Jeeves resided on Half Moon Street at Shepherd Market. Jimi Hendrix lived at 25 Brook Street – next door to the one-time residence of baroque composer George Frideric Handel (albeit separated by more than two hundred years). Both addresses now form the extraordinary Handel Hendrix House, a museum that explores the London lives of two of the greatest musicians of all time and neatly summarises the universal appeal of Mayfair itself. The Bee Gees often stayed, wrote and rehearsed at 67 Brook Street – home of their manager Robert Stigwood. And a small apartment in Curzon Place witnessed the untimely demise of both Mama Cass and The Who’s Keith Moon. There is, it seems, simply no end to the fashionable crowd’s appetite for Mayfair. Importantly, however, Mayfair remains a place of shopkeepers and locals proud to call its streets home. ‘Savile Row is a slice of history, but it is also welcoming and thriving,’ says Daisy Knatchbull, CEO of Knatchbull, the rst and thus far only women’s tailor to have a shopfront on the street. ‘The wider neighbourhood is such a melting pot, too. I love to run home through Mayfair: you see such a wide variety of people. It’s vibrant and buzzy – the beating heart of London.’ Tim Je eries of Hamiltons Gallery – which specialises in late twentieth-century photography, and which is just a few doors from The Connaught – agrees: ‘Mayfair is like Monaco or Liechtenstein: it’s a bubble within a bubble. It’s wonderful to have two of the best hotels in the world so close.’ Glamour aside, there is also a real sense of community. ‘Mayfair is a place of great hospitality and we are proud to welcome worshippers from across the world to our church,’ says Fr Dominic Robinson, SJ, parish priest at Farm Street Church. ‘We are able to extend that hospitality to less fortunate members of our community by serving a free lunch – prepared in the kitchens of Claridge’s and The Connaught – to the homeless, in our church restaurant. It must be rare to nd a place where the poorest can enjoy ne dining.’

‘It’s like a city within a city,’ says Oliver Bradbury. ‘It’s still the smartest part of London.’ ‘As an American, Mayfair is the dream of what London should look like,’ says Melissa Morris, founder of Mount Street’s Métier. ‘When I set up my brand, I knew there was only one spot in the world where I wanted to be.’ Forunately, it is also the very same spot that Maybourne calls home.

Suit: Hawes & Curtis; cufflinks: Mouawad; shoes: Manolo Blahnik. Shot in Claridge’s Restaurant.

T he Wonderful World of Mayfair

SUMMER LIVING

LONDON / CÔTE D’AZUR / BEVERLY HILLS

Think beach clubs are for daytime fun? Think again. The Lecorché brothers, the duo behind the Côte's most vibrant restaurant, have relaunched The Maybourne Riviera’s beach club as La Môme Riviera, bringing chill days and party nights. maybourneriviera.com

La Môme Riviera at Maybourne La Plage

Pool cues

CURATOR AND CLOTHING HISTORIAN AMBER BUTCHART SHARES INSIGHTS FROM HER EXHIBITION, SPLASH! A CENTURY OF SWIMMING AND STYLE

This summer, London’s Design Museum hosts Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style: a major exhibition celebrating our ‘enduring love of the water’ over the past 100 years. Here, curator Amber Butchart – known for her history segments on the BBC’s The Great British Sewing Bee – o ers summertime sartorial guidance…

Relax

‘We’ve always been a bit more experimental with our clothes while on holiday. Just look at the early twentieth

century trend for beach pyjamas –lightweight, wide-cut trousers for women – which began on the French Riviera and in the Venetian lagoon. They were worn by many female beachgoers at a time when it was very rare to see women wearing trousers.’

Pick your tribe

‘We might think of the USA as being more progressive than Europe. But actually, in terms of beachwear, it’s the other way around. The bikini didn’t catch on until much later in the US, compared with

MORE WITH...

France and even Britain. Look back at the early Hollywood surf movies from the 1950s and ’60s and the suits are quite demure. The swimwear in (the 1959 Sandra Dee movie) Gidget was designed by Rose Marie Reid: a hugely popular designer in the 1950s, who was also a Mormon, and very much against the bikini.’

Stand out

‘There’s an insidious idea that everyone should be beach-body ready, and that other people have a say in how much of your own body you reveal or cover up. Whether you want a full-coverage swimsuit – for medical, cultural or just personal reasons – or whether you want to wear a thong and nothing else, you shouldn’t be forced into extremes.

‘The same is true of what you actually do when you’re in the water. I grew up by the English seaside, and still live by the sea, but I tend to “bathe” in the waters, rather than swim about too vigorously.

‘Bathing is what the Victorians did. More athletic swimming became popular later, with the emergence of gure-hugging, aquadynamic suitwear. I don’t swim that much. I’m actually a terrible swimmer!’ Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style is at the Design Museum until 17 August 2025

Amber Butchart, curator of Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style

Favourite beach memory? I grew up in Lowestoft and we would camp on the beach in Walberswick. We used to skinny-dip at night, when you could see the glowing phosphorescence in the sea.

Most bombastic marketing?

There had been two-piece swimsuits for years, but in 1946 the French designer Louis Réard called his tiny two-piece the ‘bikini’, after the Bikini Atoll in the Paci c Ocean: an atomic-bomb test site. It was small, like an atom, and explosive, like a bomb.

Most famous swimsuit in the show?

We have one of Pamela Anderson’s Baywatch ones, on loan from Germany’s BikiniARTmuseum.

Left: Mrs Arthur McGrath on the Riviera wearing beach pyjamas in 1933. Above: designer Willi Smith and model Toukie Smith.

Right: 1930s beach pyjama illlustration

Left: The Berkeley rooftop pool. Above: The Maybourne Beverly Hills rooftop pool

Mixing beats

Renato ‘Tato’ Giovannoni. Right: Caminito de Boca, Argentina. Below: tango on the streets of Buenos Aires

LEGENDARY BARTENDER RENATO ‘TATO’ GIOVANNONI IS BRINGING BUENOS AIRES VIBES TO THE EMORY ROOFTOP BAR

love to play music and have eclectic tastes,’ says Renato 'Tato' Giovannoni, founder of the Florería Atlántico bar in Buenos Aires, and winner of the World’s 50 Best Bars’ Industry Icon Award, who has returned to The Emory Rooftop Bar for good, following the success of his two-month pop-up last year. ‘When we did our rst pop-up at The Emory Rooftop Bar, our playlist ranged from tango to milonga (a precursor to tango) to Argentinian folk – a real mix of sounds.

‘As the night goes by, the playlist evolves with jazzy tunes, hip-hop and music from the ‘80s and ‘90s. There are beautiful views of London and, inside, it’s quiet and dark – the vibe isn’t right for nightclub sounds. But people sometimes dance at their table.

‘Making a playlist is like crafting a cocktail. And creating a bar is like putting together ingredients: the music, the mood, the environment, the lighting, how people

behave at di erent times.

‘Some venues play the same music every day, which I don’t like. It’s easy to forget that we, as givers of hospitality, need to enjoy the experience as well as the guests. I’m looking forward to extending the playlist. I want it to last from Monday to Saturday without repeating a song!

‘I love tango and folk. “Balada para un Loco” is beautiful: an old tango, with a woman reciting a poem. When I travel, I get emotional if I hear a certain song. It might be because of a lyric, or because it’s a new take on an old song. Tango isn’t something that’s disappeared: in Argentina, talented young people celebrate it and keep it alive.

‘At our bar, the hospitality is elegant yet relaxed. That’s the Argentinian way. I’m so happy we are going to be at The Emory Rooftop Bar for the foreseeable future. We can open the bar ceiling to enjoy the sun.'

‘Tango hasn’t disappeared: talented, young people keep it alive’

Book a table at the-emory. co.uk/restaurants-bars/ the-emory-bar/

‘Esperar

The

Below and right: Tato and his creations.

‘Balada para un Loco’ by Amelita Baltar ‘Noche de ronda’ by Eydie Gormé & the Trio Los Panchos ‘Un rêve à deux’ by Jean Tonique featuring Bleu Platine ‘El Choclo’ by Tita Merello

Pra Ver’ by Poolside & Fatnotronic the-emory.co.uk

Above:

Emory.

Left:

FROM SCENIC SUNBATHING TO AL FRESCO ENTERTAINING, CHOOSE THE SUITE THAT SUITS YOUR SUMMER STYLE

A Suite OUTDOORS

s the days lengthen and the temperatures rise, throw open the doors and step outside to embrace the joys of summer. With generous proportions, sophisticated design and unparalleled views, Maybourne suites feature the luxury of outdoor space, unmatched design and unparalleled views.

FOR WATERFRONT RELAXATION

THE INFINITY BLUE SUITE AT THE MAYBOURNE RIVIERA

Dreaming of a quintessential summer escape, drenched in sea and sky? The expansive, split-level In nity Blue Suite at The Maybourne Riviera has a generously proportioned terrace, where our gaze is drawn to the mesmerising Mediterranean waves.

Inspired by Monet’s a rmation that ‘one swims in blue air’ on the Riviera, the suite’s private in nity pool appears to melt into the horizon. After a cooling dip, get down to serious sunbathing with a chilled glass of rosé. maybourneriviera.com

‘The suite’s private infinity pool appears to melt into the horizon’

FOR EXCEPTIONAL ENTERTAINING

GRAND PAVILION PENTHOUSE AT THE BERKELEY

Savour summertime in the city with a luxurious stay at The Berkeley. With two bedrooms and sleeping space for up to ve, the Grand Pavilion Penthouse is ideal for guests with a penchant for elevated hosting. Making the most of indooroutdoor living, the suite is walled in glass on three sides, and topped with a transparent pavilion that ushers in light at every angle. Make the most of the season’s long, warm days on the wraparound landscaped terrace. With panoramic views of Belgravia and St Paul’s, this is just the place for leisurely al fresco lunching with friends, followed by evening cocktails around the repit. the-berkeley.co.uk

FOR SPECTACULAR SUNSETS

THE GRAND TERRACE SUITE AT CLARIDGE’S

Among the historic rooftops of Mayfair, the terrace of this two-bedroom suite is as splendid as its name suggests. On arrival, head outside – via the art-clad living room – to enjoy a complimentary bottle of chilled champagne on the beautifully appointed balcony. Take in the drama of the skyline as the sun sets over the capital’s landmarks, including the London Eye. After a leisurely open-air supper at the marble and bronze dining table, retire to the repit for late-night chats around the flames. claridges.co.uk

FOR AN URBAN OASIS

THE APARTMENT AT THE CONNAUGHT

A rare retreat in the British capital, The Connaught’s two-bedroom penthouse suite comes with serenely leafy views. From your lofty perch at the top of the hotel, follow the sun across the space’s dual decks, crafted in teak and dotted with sculpted topiary. The greenery continues in your view over Mayfair’s tree-lined streets, from Carlos Place to the city beyond. Unwind away from the London clamour with a cooling drink and a good summer read. Your Connaught butler is at hand to assist with any requests, from fresh ice to sundown serves. the-connaught.co.uk

FOR SKY- HIGH LUXURY

THE EMORY PENTHOUSE

The crown jewel in The Emory’s all-suite o ering, this glass-wrapped, two-bedroom suite is the pinnacle of penthouses. Occupying the entire top floor of the nine-storey hotel, with contemporary interiors by Rigby & Rigby, the 300-square-metre oasis comes with three spacious terraces. Enjoy the high life by rising and shining with sun salutations in an open-air yoga session, then catching rays on the chic loungers. Swoop down in the lift for a rejuvenating session at Surrenne – for which complimentary membership extends for the duration of your stay – then head back outdoors for aperitifs as the sun sinks over Hyde Park. the-emory.co.uk

FOR THE MOVIE STAR EXPERIENCE

THE HOLLYWOOD SUITE AT THE MAYBOURNE BEVERLY HILLS

Experience the height of LA glamour in a suite with dazzling views of the Hollywood hills. Designed by Bryan O’Sullivan, this airy, sun-drenched space has a sizeable yet secluded terrace, ideal for relaxing or dining with friends. Tranquilly positioned above the busy boulevards of Beverly Hills, it’s ideal for whiling away hazy summer days. Step outside to savour blue-sky breakfasts and picture-perfect sundowners, or simply sit back and admire the twinkling lights of Tinseltown beneath the stars. maybournebeverlyhills.com

Dante Takes Claridge’s

DISCOVER THE BEST COOLING COCKTAILS TO ENJOY AT CLARIDGE’S SUMMER COLLABORATION WITH THIS NYC CULINARY INSTITUTION

As the heat dials up in Mayfair, respite comes in the form of excellent food with chilled concoctions at Dante. This new pop-up brings a convivial, New York take on aperitivi culture to Claridge’s Restaurant. Fans of the venerable Manhattan institution will be delighted to learn that the NYC-style Negroni Sessions menu selections make the trip, alongside great American dishes, and lling, guilty pleasures. Below, Dante co-owner Linden Pride recommends a few favourite drinks.

Dante at Claridge’s Restaurant, 30 June –31 July, claridges.co.uk

Pineapple Pimm’s Cup

The pop-up opens on the first day of Wimbledon, and this is just the thing to toast the tennis: Pimm’s with Lillet Blanc, gin, cucumber bitters and pineapple soda. ‘It’s presented with fruit salad over the top,’ says Linden. ‘Bountiful and visually beautiful, with lots of field strawberries and fresh cucumber.’

High brow

THE CAPITAL’S MOST IN-DEMAND BROW ARTIST HOLLIE PARKES ARRIVES AT CLARIDGE’S SPA

SSeville Spritz

This refreshing spritz offers a riot of zingy citrus flavours.

‘A real crowd-pleaser,’ says Linden, ‘with Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla gin, orange wine, orange blossom, prosecco and vanilla.’

Hugo Spritz

The perfect accompaniment to a sunny afternoon on the terrace, the Hugo Spritz is a lively take on time-honoured summer flavours. ‘Part of the light, bright, English-inspired garden cocktail menu, the Hugo Spritz is an elderflowercucumber-flavoured drink with St-Germain, lime, mint, prosecco and Perrier,’ says Linden.

pring saw Hollie Parkes join the evolving roster of wellness masters at Claridge’s Spa. One of the beauty world’s most acclaimed eyebrow artists, Parkes has gained a devoted following for her

signature sculpting skills. But what does she o er?

‘Brow Spa [one of Claridge’s signature treatments] is essentially a facial, including a tensionrelieving massage and brow cryotherapy,’ she says. ‘You’ll leave feeling relaxed, with beautiful brows. Meanwhile, Brow Health is about enhancing natural growth with LED therapy and microneedling.’

This summer, Parkes advocates going au naturel: ‘I see a shift towards natural

Dante’s Classic Americano

Served in a Spanish-style porrón wine pitcher, this Dante staple heads the Negroni Sessions menu at Claridge’s. ‘A porrón is traditionally used for drinking rosé, poured via the little nozzle,’ Linden explains. ‘It’s very cool; very refreshing.’

looks; leaning into what your brow wants. That might mean leaving a look a little undone, without completely clean lines.’

And what are her pro tips for maintaining beautiful brows? ‘Consider a brow conditioner – if you’re out in the sun, you need to hydrate the hair,’ she says. ‘I also recommend a brow growth serum for added fullness. And if you’re on holiday and you haven’t had time to tint, or if the sun has bleached your brows, brush brown mascara through them for a wonderful instant lift.’ claridges.co.uk

Above: Claridge’s terrace. Right: Dante in NYC

Above: Bjarke Ingels, 2016.

Left: Kunlé Adeyemi, 2016.

Below: Hans Ulrich Obrist with Yinka Shonibare and guests at The Serpentine Summer Party, 2024

Sublime Serpentine

HANS ULRICH OBRIST, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF THE SERPENTINE GALLERIES, LOOKS BACK ON A QUARTER CENTURY OF SUMMERTIME ARCHITECTURAL STRUCTURES IN LONDON’S HYDE PARK

From the very start, when Zaha Hadid created the inaugural pavilion in 2000, the idea was to introduce architects who had never built in the UK before.

‘Well-known names – such as Rem Koolhaas (2006), Jean Nouvel (2010) and Oscar Niemeyer (2003) – were very excited by the commission, because a pavilion is a temporary structure, so you can do something experimental.

‘Around 2012, after inviting many established architects, we decided to favour younger, emerging ones – such as Frida Escobedo (2018) and Lina Ghotmeh (2023) – and thereby make a small contribution towards architecture becoming more inclusive.

‘The pavilions always open around the same time, at the start of June. In the weeks before, people often stop us in the park and ask who’s creating the new one.

PAST SERPENTINE GUESTS

top: Natasha Poonawalla and Edward Enninful; Diana, Princess of Wales; Chet Lo and Harris Reed;

‘People nd their own uses for the pavilions, too. Joggers used the Frank Gehry pavilion (2008) to stretch in, and ramps in the Olafur Eliasson and Snøhetta pavilion (2007) to run up and down. Lina Ghotmeh’s featured a table, which people used to meet beside.

‘The pavilion has always been free and easy to access – there are no doors keeping anyone out.

‘I remember taking a cab to the Serpentine one morning. The driver told me he had come to the park for a walk with his family. His daughter had run into the pavilion, loved the structure, experienced something of a revelation, and was now studying to be an architect.

‘If we had installed doors and charged an entry fee, that wouldn’t have happened, so it’s very important that we don’t.’

The Serpentine Pavilion 2025 by Marina Tabassum opens on 6 June. serpentinegalleries.org

Left: The Serpentine Pavilion 2025 by Marina Tabassum

From

Zaha Hadid; Mary Charteris and Alice Naylor-Leyland

Canne’d Heat

THE OPEN -AIR JOIE DE VIVRE OF CANNES HAS HIT THE TERRACES OF KNIGHTSBRIDGE. LEONIE COOPER LEARNS LA MÔME’S SECRETS

La Môme London is unapologetically glamorous – and thank goodness for that. The UK capital has plenty of achingly minimal restaurants: hushed temples with starched tablecloths and abrupt service, frowning upon the very notion of flair. But La Môme London would be satis ed with nothing so ordinary.

Imported from the most fabulous region of the Riviera to The Berkeley, La Môme began life in Cannes a decade ago. A throwback to the resort’s ultra-chic 1950s and ’60s, it was an instant hit for French restaurateur twins Ugo and Antoine Lecorché. A second, beachside outpost followed, before further debuts in Cannes and Monte Carlo in 2022.

The brothers started as waiters, so they know a thing or two about giving diners what they want. ‘We’re not a fancy restaurant,’ notes Antoine. ‘We’re more about atmosphere. It’s all about the guest experience. There’s a very high level of service, of course – but we do it in a relaxed way.’

Taking over the area once home to Marcus Wareing’s Marcus, La Môme London is the siblings’ rst UK opening. Expect unparalleled hospitality and elevated Mediterranean classics such as cacio e pepe fried squid, Aperol salmon gravlax and Wagyu tagliata.

There’s music most nights, too: Frenchstyle chanteurs and live piano, or DJs in a booth that’s part of a lively interior by Cannes-based designer Samy Chams.

La Môme London stops short of having an actual dancefloor, but things kick o around 10pm, when dinner gives way to cocktails and giddy conviviality. ‘We can make 140 classic cocktails,’ explains bar manager John. The margarita is most popular, but a tropical negroni – with mezcal, pineapple and coconut water –looks set to be a summer staple.

Defying Britain’s temperamental weather, an outdoor terrace completes La Môme London. Over the warmer months, the space welcomes diners sipping spritzers amid aromatic jasmine flowers and olive trees. ‘It looks and feels the same as Cannes and Monaco,’ says Antoine.

There’s no dress code per se – ‘although flip-flops are not recommended!’ says Antoine – but guests often match the sophisticated energy of La Môme itself. After all, the restaurant is named after La Môme Moineau, a French hostess known for wild yacht parties in the Riviera’s golden age. With Slim Aarons prints lining the walls – from the photographer’s time in Cap d’Antibes, Cap-Ferrat and Cannes’ own la Croisette – the stage at The Berkeley is set for a similar magic. ‘His photos focus on beautiful sharing moments,’ says Antoine. ‘There are always lots of people in each picture, really showing the scene of life.’ Arrive at the perfect point in the evening and La Môme London promises to do much the same.

Make reservations for La Môme London via the-berkeley.co.uk

‘Diners sip lunchtime spritzers amid aromatic jasmine flowers and olive trees’

Ugo and Antoine Lecorché and a selection of La Môme’s mouthwatering creations. Right: Wilton Place, Belgravia

Water colours

FRENCH ARTIST CHARL0TTE COLT TALKS US THROUGH HER MAYBOURNE RIVIERA PAINTINGS

Head to the pool at The Maybourne Riviera, and you nd yourself surrounded by the charming brushstrokes of Charlotte Colt.

‘I’ve always loved drawing,’ she says, sitting on the sun-dappled terrace of the hotel, by that beautiful pool. ‘And I love

to swim. I still swim pretty much all year round.’ Art, she declares, is in her blood: ‘I was born and raised in southern France. Henri Matisse, Jean Cocteau and Pablo Picasso all lived and worked in this part of the country, and their art influences me. But I also take inspiration from the local landscape, the people and the produce. Just going to the beach is inspiring.’

Despite being a lifelong artist, Colt decided only a few years ago – during the Covid pandemic – to pursue it as a career. ‘I turned to art professionally during lockdown. I had been in events and project management in Paris. Dior, one of my old employers, was my rst art client.

‘I loved painting the frescos at The Maybourne Riviera. If you get to see them, pay special attention to the swimmers’ features in the pictures – to the way they relate to one another. The frescos line the corridor leading to the pool.

‘And the pool has a breathtaking view. I’ve lived here for almost all my life, and I have never seen anything like it!’

For more on The Maybourne Riviera, please visit maybourneriviera.com

DES HERBES SUPERBES

MAYBOURNE MIXOLOGIST

JULIEN LECHARPENTIER PUTS THE CÔTE’S TASTE IN A GLASS

The Maybourne Riviera’s bar Le 300 has a reputation for excellence, so it’s no surprise that chief mixologist Julien Lecharpentier is something of a perfectionist.

‘I grew up in this part of France and studied biology and agronomy in the region,’ he says. ‘I began working in kitchens, then switched to bars.

‘What I do now is like liquid cookery. I love to take the smells and tastes – the aromatics – from different local plants and distill them for our drinks. I often use a rotary evaporation machine – a rotovap –to make our own fragrant infusions. It’s expensive, but it’s an excellent way to create our unique spirits.

‘I like to use the leaves of the plants. I’ve used fig, olive and mandarin leaves in our drinks. Our goal at the bar is for you to taste the region: to taste the terroir and all the Mediterranean treasures. That’s very important for us.

‘The Lemon pie is our best seller. It’s a tequila sour that draws on the different citrus fruits found in the Mediterranean. There’s elements of lemon leaf, orange blossom, bergamot and a Corsican citrus fruit called a cedrat in the drink. It’s like a liquid lemon meringue pie.

‘The Senteurs du Sud spritz is filled with the scents of southern France. It has elderflower liqueur, lemon myrtle distillate and cherrytomato-water soda.

‘On our new menu, which we will unveil in June, is the Lie-chee – our version of a lychee martini. We can’t use lychees, because they aren’t a local plant. So we use verjus – that’s acidic unripe grape juice – as well as peach wine, and a milk-clarified punch base.’

maybourneriviera.com

TRAIL MIX

THE LOS ANGELES LANDSCAPE MAKES FOR A SPECTACULAR BACKDROP TO ITS WALKING TRAILS. AVID HIKER RICHARD WELCH – FOUNDER OF OUTDOOR SKINCARE BRAND UTU – GUIDES US TO HIS FAVOURITE ROUTES WITHIN REACH OF THE MAYBOURNE BEVERLY HILLS

Franklin Canyon

‘This is close to The Maybourne Beverly Hills and offers great views across West LA and Beverly Hills.

‘A lot of trails in Los Angeles expose you to large amounts of sun, but this is shaded and not too steep. And there are lots of nice plants and birds to admire.’ mrca.ca.gov

Wisdom Tree

‘A fire back in 2007 left only one tree on the ridge of Burbank Peak: the Wisdom Tree. Hikers

leave notes in a box – notes of wisdom – which you can stop and read. The trail is pretty steep, with lots of switchbacks.

‘You can also take a walk along the ridge to Cahuenga Peak, the highest point of the Hollywood hills.’ alltrails.com

Runyon Canyon

‘This overlooks the Hollywood sign, so you get social media influencers and creators hiking here. It has the best views across Los Angeles: you can see

Griffith Observatory and, on a good day, Santa Catalina Island.

‘The east and west trails are very steep, but not too long: if you go up the east and come down the west, you finish in about an hour and twenty minutes. I do it daily. The best time to go is sunrise or sunset.’ discoverlosangeles.com

Baldwin Hills

Scenic Overlook

‘This is in Culver City and

BAKING HOT

more of an urban hike. It’s quite short and intense, and goes up a staircase cut into the hills. It’s a good one to fit in with some city pursuits, such as a little shopping.’ parks.ca.gov

Ask your Maybourne concierge for more hiking trail ideas. maybournebeverlyhills.com For more on Utu, please visit utu-sun.com

The great pastry chef Cedric Grolet has a new seasonal menu at The Berkeley. Look out for grapefruit pavlova, passion fruit entremets, and a red apple conjured from apple vanilla gel, caramelised apple, fresh apple and caramel ganache, among other delights. cedric-grolet.com

Photographer Will Waterworth

Shine ON

FROM A JOHN LOBB

SHOESHINE TO AN ABSOLUTELY PERFECT MARTINI, WRITER RICK

JORDAN CHECKS INTO THE CONNAUGHT TO ENJOY THE SUITE LIFE

Rick Jordan portraits by OLIVER HOLMS

Many sing the therapeutic properties of Pilates, others the bene ts of forest bathing.

I’ll bet they’ve never had the pleasure of a shoeshine in a John Lobb chair. Sitting on the rst-floor landing of The Connaught, my feet settled on metal plates, while senior butler Ionut Aldeailie rubbed cream into my black loafers, was a most relaxing experience. A moment out of time.

Half an hour to stop and sip the cold martini brought to me (these can be order in-suite, where The Connaught’s butlers — on-call 24-hours a day — provide complimentary packing and unpacking services); to flick through a newspaper and chat with Ionut.

By the time my martini was half downed, fresh wax was being worked into my shoes with a cloth that’s been in service since 2007 and has a patina of smudges like a painter’s palette.

‘That’s nothing,’ Ionut tells me. ‘At the John Lobb shop on Jermyn Street, they use cloths that go back forty years.’ He flicks a little water on the leather, to mix in the wax, then applies the final

brush. We muse on the shoefulness of Northamptonshire, England’s most wellshod county, where John Lobb and other makers are based, then I admire my shiny footwear. It may have been my imagination but I’m sure the Duke of Connaught, peering out from his portrait, nodded in approval as I glided back to the Sutherland Suite. Yes, when it comes to mindfulness, I’ll take a shoeshine over a gong bath any day.

The Connaught has restored many of its rooms and launched the Suite Collection, showcasing the best services o ers. The butler team is naturally tight-lipped about guests, but I’m told that, back in the day, Lionel Richie would stay in the Sutherland Suite and serenade sta on a Steinway grand piano that gleamed like newly polished shoes. Butlers and maids gathered to hear him singing ‘Hello’ and ‘Dancing on the Ceiling’.

And for a day and a night, my girlfriend and I were treated to the hotel’s greatest hits, from spa treatments to patisserie by Nicolas

Top: The Sutherland Suite. Above: Rick Jordan gets a shoeshine. Left: The Connaught’s entrance.

Rouzard and dishes by Jean-Georges Vongerichten. We dipped down for a drink in the Red Bar and a swim in the pool, but spent the rest of our time in the Sutherland Suite. Designed by Guy Oliver to evoke an English stately home, it has curlicues of gilded plasterwork and soft carpets the colour of hazelnut cream. A chandelier illuminates a shelf of vintage Country Life and Punch magazines. I picked one and read while Ionut poured a glass of champagne. A cabinet held all we needed for cocktails. And despite its Englishness, the room glowed with warmth, arising from paintings of parrots and flowers.

For an hour, our bedroom became a spa. Therapist Radika told tales of her Nepalese homeland while ironing out knots in my shoulder with an adaptogenic massage using extract of lion’s mane mushroom.

Later, our drawing room became an immersive dining experience, with Ionut assembling a table in seconds. We mixed and matched menus, ordering canapés of hash brown, caviar and crispy sushi, with a classic shrimp salad and Jean-Georges specials: sea bass and roasted duck breast.

The hotel’s suite experience also o ers opportunities to screen lms from The Connaught Cinematic Collection, starring Hollywood names who have stayed at the

hotel: Grace Kelly in Rear Window, Cary Grant in His Girl Friday, Jack Nicholson in Chinatown. Head butler Paulo De Sousa recalls Nicholson staying for three months while lming Batman

Paulo has been here since the 1980s. His grandfather sailed from Madeira in the 1950s and knocked at The Connaught’s door for a job. His grandmother, parents, and ve brothers worked here too. Spend time with Paulo and the stories tumble out. For all the champagne lifestyle of the Suite Collection, a Connaught stay is rooted in storytelling.

‘There are two types of suite guest,’ notes hotel manager Christopher Down. “Those who keep themselves to themselves and those who actively engage in the hotel life, in the butler service we provide.’ I know which type I am. Back at home, I unzip my bag, neatly packed by Ionut with layers of tissue paper and a linen bag for my shiny shoes. I have my own story now.

To book suites at The Connaught go to theconnaught.co.uk/rooms-and-suites/

Above: a butler brings martinis from The Connaught Bar. Top right: a Connaught butler serves champagne. Left: former Connaught guest, Jack Nicholson.

Above: The Connaught Suite.

Below: The Grosvenor Suite.

V ision Twenties

WHY, ONE HUNDRED YEARS LATER, ARE WE STILL ENTHRALLED

BY ART DECO AND

THE ROARING TWENTIES? HANNAH BETTS EXPLORES THE ALLURE OF THE JAZZ AGE

In lines that could have been drafted in Claridge’s ballroom, F. Scott Fitzgerald describes The Great Gatsby’s opening party: ‘Lights grow brighter… now the orchestra is playing yellow cocktail music and the opera of voices pitches a key higher. Laughter is easier, minute by minute, spilled with prodigality, tipped out at a cheerful word. The groups change more swiftly, swell with new arrivals, dissolve and form in the same breath… The party has begun.’

This year marks a century from the publication of Fitzgerald’s novel and here at Claridge’s we are seizing the chance to celebrate this decadent era, to which we owe so much of our own style and glamour. A long list of events are planned, including talks and a showcase of the most iconic items from the archives. Cocktails will be Cecil Beaton’s and the music will be almost certainly be jazz.

Meanwhile, a musical tribute to The Great Gatsby itself arrives at London’s Coliseum, fresh from an award-winning Broadway stint. It promises ‘shimmering, sparkling spectacle’, heady as champagne on a night when a big shot invites you for a jaunt on his hydroplane.

That Fitzgerald’s riotous 1920s remain such a glamorous cultural reference one hundred years after the decade roared feels ironic. For Gatsby – much as in Fitzgerald’s other ctions – shows us the hollowness of the milieu he describes, as evident in the carousing as it is in the callousness that sees Myrtle Wilson’s body lying broken on the road to East Egg, her killer flitted away. And yet still we interpret that society as a chic Bacchanalia to be emulated. Witness Kate Moss’s notorious The Beautiful and Damned -themed thirtieth birthday at

Claridge’s in 2004, where Naomi Campbell, Tracey Emin, Alexander McQueen and assorted rock gods paid homage to the supermodel as she channelled Fitzgerald’s decadent antiheroine Gloria Gilbert. We are beguiled, too, by the seductive sophistication of Deco design. Turn-of-thecentury Art Nouveau had celebrated ornate curves and intricate natural detail, but Art Deco championed clean lines, geometric shapes and a machine-age aesthetic. After the devastation of the war, those chevrons, zigzags and stylised sunrays promised opulence, celebration and a chrome-bright future, full of mirrored surfaces in which a jazz baby could powder her nose.

New York may be the Art Deco capital, but London can claim the most beguiling beacon of its aesthetic: Claridge’s. Nowhere is the style’s refined balance between restraint and excess exemplified more beguilingly than in Mayfair’s gilted and glass-bedecked grande dame. Whether it is Jacques Adnet’s snowy doves in the foyer, the ‘lemon chi on’ paint adorning the wall of The Fumoir, Marion Dorn’s 1930s carpets (designed to keep eyes discreetly riveted to the floor), or the glass panel that René Lalique himself presented to the hotel in 1927, guests’ coupes runneth over. And this even before they reach the Deco delights of bedrooms 101 and 103, with their exquisite Palladian-leaf gilding.

‘Claridge’s has always been Britain’s - and the world’s - great Art Deco pleasure palace,’ says archivist Kate Hudson, who will be running salon-style talks at Claridge’s throughout 2025. However, the term ‘Art Deco’ came into being only in a Times headline of 1966, taking its name from the

movement’s rst major appearance at the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris in 1925. This celebration of modernity in the wake of war was a colossal success, attracting sixteen million visitors.

On his return from Paris, society design darling Basil Ionides was commissioned to remodel the hotel’s Davies Street entrance, restaurant and several of its suites in this modish new guise. A Claridge’s press release from 1927 declares, ‘Mr Ionides understands what is needed to give that feeling of joie de vivre.’ In 1929, architect Oswald Milne expanded the hotel’s Deco aesthetic, adding the restaurant’s jousting tent entrance and the extension that houses the ballroom. Again, joie de vivre was the goal.

‘Art Deco was the entertainment style of the Jazz Age,’ explains architecture historian Harry Mount, author of A Lust for Window Sills. ‘If Paris was the spark, then Cubism, the Ballets Russes and exoticism – not least Tutankhamun-inspired Egyptomania –were fellow midwives. Its glitz be tted the eruption of skyscrapers, department stores and newspaper o ces of the post-World War I leisure boom. You get the full e ect in Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers lms: Art Deco sets aboard Art Deco ocean liners, shown in Art Deco cinemas.’

The stage was set and the players flocked. Claridge’s, notes Kate Hudson, ‘had been transformed into a shimmering wonderland of marble, mirrors and soft lighting: the perfect backdrop for the Bright Young Things.’ Those artists and socialites lit up interwar London with their pranks and parties. Novelist Evelyn Waugh summarised them as ‘cosmopolitan, sympathetic to the arts, well-mannered and ornamental’.

The Fitzgeralds stayed at Claridge’s in 1921. Then came socialite Stephen Tennant, said to be the model for louche fellows in Waugh’s Vile Bodies and Brideshead Revisited and Nancy Mitford’s Love in a Cold Climate

‘Claridge’s has always been Britain’s - and the world’sgreat Art Deco pleasure palace’

With him came photographer Cecil Beaton, the Mitford sisters and the Sitwells, thumbing their noses at austerity with cries of ‘Darling!’ and ‘Too, too divine!’ Negative, nonClaridge’s phenomena were ‘sick-making’ and ‘frightfully tiresome’.

On leap year’s night, 1928, Claridge’s hosted The Dream of Fair Women Ball in its newly redecorated silver and green ballroom. Cecil Beaton designed out ts for society beauties embodying futuristic fantasies: a huntswoman of 1960, a nun of 1980 and an

Ascot-goer of 2000. Tickets cost three guineas; the equivalent of nine days’ wages for a skilled tradesman.

Historians have criticised the tendency to view the 1920s as one long party. As with our own twenties, it was a time of turbulence and political extremes. Yet we focus on the sequinned suits and shiny surfaces, in thrall to the glamour of the era.

‘Our need to mythologise the 1920s proves eternal,’ notes Kate Hudson. ‘We love the frivolity, the fashion and the sense of carpe diem – so tragically ful lled in the hurtling back to global war. We adore its vitality and energy; its rejecting of the old for the new with such stylish verve.’ In the end, as with Gatsby’s parties, what makes us succumb is the sheer giddy beauty. The Great Gatsby is at the London Coliseum until 7 September. londoncoliseum.org

Left: Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss at Claridge’s for the latter’s birthday party. Below: a Claridge’s luggage tag

Claridge’s will be celebrating 100 years of Art Deco throughout 2025, including a series of expert talks in The Painter’s Room, an Art Deco showcase from the archives, Cecil Beaton cocktails in the Fumoir and special pre-theatre ‘Great Gatsby’ menus Images: Jim Stanton and Jo GB at @ therandomstudio;model: Olivia Stanton

LIVE THE ART DECO DREAM AT CLARIDGE’S

For the ultimate Art Deco sleepover, check in to Claridge’s for the ‘Bright Young Things’ experience, including: an Art-Deco style room, a curated selection of 1920s lms and music, an Art Deco map of London landmarks, a limitededition copy of Flappers & Philosophers by F Scott Fitzgerald and a bottle of Shalimar l’eau de parfum by Guerlain. claridge’s.co.uk

Left: Claridge’s on the cover of Tatler. Right: Cecil Beaton’s Cocktail Book (National Portrait Gallery, 2020)

F OOD&DRINK

LONDON / CÔTE D’AZUR / BEVERLY HILLS

Picture this: the fresh, farm-to-table cuisine of Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s abc kitchens at The Emory in London is complemented by Damien Hirst’s equally lush Secret Garden paintings, which depict vibrant flowers in a style that balances the harmonious with the chaotic. the-emory.co.uk/restaurants-bars/abc-kitchens.

Ace of Clubs

FOOD CRITIC, BIG BROTHER STAR AND PODCASTER HENRY SOUTHAN REVEALS WHY HE FAVOURS ONE MENU ITEM ABOVE ALL OTHERS…

Photography by BILLIE SCHEEPERS

Aclub sandwich is my culinary compass in the wilds of hotel dining. Heavily jet-lagged, disoriented or just plain peckish, I know it’s there: steady, soothing, and a sneaky gauge of a kitchen’s chops. Dame Joan Collins, a doyenne of discernment, swears she rates hotels by their club sandwiches. My barometers? Great bathrooms, a chic hotel bar and, yes, the room service club sandwich.

deal with the kitchen: nail these essentials, and I’m a happy guest. In my flu y robe, I’m Kevin McCallister at the Plaza, in-room menu on my lap, hotel phone to my ear. ‘Where’s the room service button?!’ I picture attendants sprinting like Olympians, cloches aloft, dodging obstacles to save the bread from a soggy fate.

Tom Parker Bowles calls it a ‘triple-layered paean to poolside delight’. I agree. Humble dishes – sandwiches, omelettes – bare a chef’s soul. Miss the mark, and your diners are raising their eyebrows and eyeing the exits.

My obsession predates Club Sandwich, the podcast I named with my partner not just for its snack supremacy, but because listening makes you one of us, skewer and all. We bicker, rant and sling sandwiches sublime and suspect. How I ended up debating whether a wrap quali es as a sandwich (it does) remains one of life’s little mysteries. Yet amid the culinary chatter, the club remains untouchable. It’s a ritual: that golden stack, the teetering layers, those skewers like tiny lances. No fuss, just killer bread, crisp bacon, juicy chicken, ripe tomato, and mayo with panache. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve ordered it.

I’m often teased that I have the same thing at every hotel I visit. The club sandwich is a timeless marvel, a xture on menus for more than a century. It’s got a quiet charm: elegant yet unfussy; a precise balance of texture and taste. The bread needs to crunch just so, the bacon must snap, and the mayo must tie it all together without stealing the show. It’s a

PREMIER CLUB

Claridge’s

Quite simply, perfection. Soft, delicate pain de mie is toasted to a flawless golden brown, providing just the right crunch. Crisp lettuce brings a refreshing bite; grilled chicken breast offers succulence. The bacon is perfectly crispy. Every mouthful is a joy, and the flavour balance is testament to the hotel’s attention to detail.

‘Dame Joan Collins swears she rates hotels by their club sandwiches’

Its familiarity on a menu, wherever you are in the world, makes the sandwich a home away from home. The blend of simplicity and nesse is why I’m hooked. A club is to me what marmalade is to Paddington: an oddball lifeline of luxury.

The sandwich itself is named after the 4th Earl of Sandwich, a gambler who demanded meat slapped between bread slices – fuel to keep playing cards without getting them greasy. The origins of the club sandwich are murkier. New York’s late nineteenth-century Saratoga Club House claims the invention, though some tout ‘CLUB’ as ‘Chicken, Lettuce, Under Bacon’; cute, if shaky.

By the early twentieth century, it ruled hotel menus worldwide: a 2 a.m. room-service rock for robe-clad wanderers. It’s the ultimate late-night saviour. Menu a haze? Stomach howling? The club’s your pal. Skip the pomp for my last meal: a club, crisp fries and champagne, and it’ll be cheers to eternity with a grin.

The Connaught

Beautifully toasted bread gives a satisfying crunch, with a hint of the buttery richness inside. The chicken is soft and perfectly seasoned, layered with precision to ensure every mouthful delivers flavour. Turkey mayo adds a savoury note. Enjoying it in the club-like Coburg Bar is the height of understated luxury.

The Berkeley

At The Berkeley, avocado adds a welcome creaminess that balances the crisp, thick-cut streaky bacon. The sandwich is sliced into elegant rectangles rather than the usual triangles: a nod to the hotel’s refined style. Thinly sliced egg adds richness, while sun-dried tomato mayo provides a welcome, gentle tang.

But what makes a great club sandwich? And more importantly, what should never be allowed between those toasted layers? To settle this once and for all, I set out on a noble mission: sampling some of the nest in London. Some might say I went clubbing (sorry). Results below!

The Emory

Slices of pain de mie, buttered with a blend of sun-dried tomatoes and mayonnaise, hold grilled chicken, sliced boiled egg, lettuce, avocado, tomato and bacon. The seasoning is perfect, and the thoughtful choice of fresh ingredients reflects The Emory’s position at the pinnacle of contemporary luxury hospitality.

Cake Walk

MISSING AWARDS SEASON? INDULGE YOURSELF WITH TASTY TRIBUTES TO RED CARPET MOMENTS AT THE MAYBOURNE BEVERLY HILLS’ PRÊT-À- PORTEA. REBECCA COPE BREAKS DOWN THE BAKES

Illustrations by SUSANNAH GARROD

For many, Los Angeles is synonymous with Hollywood glamour and awards.

So it’s no wonder that The Maybourne Beverly Hills’ inaugural take on Prêt-àPortea – the fashion-inspired afternoon tea launched by London’s Berkeley hotel two decades ago – pays homage to famous red carpet moments.

‘With our location, the hotel feels like it’s a part of awards season,’ shares The Maybourne Beverly Hills Executive Pastry Chef, Brooke Martin.

‘There’s always a buzz and a liveliness. So when we had the idea to do our own take on the Prêt-aPortea, it had to be red carpet moments.’

Martin opted for looks that would be instantly recognisable in cake form: ‘Jennifer Lopez’s green Versace dress basically broke the internet, while everyone remembers Björk’s swan dress. Then we looked at out ts with speci c detailing that we could recreate, like Lupita Nyong’o’s pearl dress.’

BROOKE MARTIN

Executive Pastry Chef,

The Maybourne Beverly Hills

TAYLOR SWIFT

IN OSCAR DE LA RENTA AT THE 2021 GRAMMYS

Taylor Swift made a splash at the 2021 Grammys with an Oscar de la Renta minidress, adorned with multicoloured appliqué flowers. Debuted at a show just weeks beforehand, it was a major fashion flex for Swift, showing she could wear something hot o the catwalk before anybody else.

It’s no surprise that America’s sweetheart went with de la Renta, who is known for dressing First Ladies and Oscar-winners.

JENNIFER

LOPEZ IN VERSACE AT THE 2000 GRAMMYS

Fashion legend holds that the green leaf-print Versace gown worn by Jennifer Lopez to the Grammys prompted the invention of Google Images, because J.Lo in the dress was all anyone searched for online the next day.

Featuring a neckline that plunged to her navel, the diaphanous chi on gown was secured with a brooch at the waist, and had citrine gemstones embroidered on it. Much like the safety-pin dress worn by Elizabeth Hurley six years earlier, it shone a spotlight on Versace.

In Brooke Martin’s hands, the look is brought to life via a coconut mousse with pineapple chutney and pistachio sponge topped with mango glass.

Swift completed the look with pink suede heels by Christian Louboutin, which Brooke Martin remakes as a biscuit with whipped vanilla royal pink icing.

LUPITA NYONG’O

IN CALVIN KLEIN AT THE 2015 ACADEMY AWARDS

In what could have been the start of a crime caper lm, Lupita Nyong’o’s dress vanished after 2015’s Oscars. Made from 6,000 pearls, the Calvin Klein halterneck gown – worth a reported $150,000 – went missing from the actress’s hotel room but was found under a bathroom sink.

Nyong’o paid homage to the look with her Chanel dress for the 2025 Oscars, featuring 22,410 pearls. White chocolate pearls adorn The Maybourne Beverly Hills’ vanilla Saint-Honoré take on the original.

BILLY PORTER

IN GILES DEACON AT THE 2020 ACADEMY AWARDS

Actor Billy Porter’s look kickstarted the challenging of gender norms on the Oscars red carpet. Created by Britain’s Giles Deacon, it featured a twenty-four-karat gold bodice, feathered top and printed skirt, and was said to be inspired by the domed ceilings of Kensington Palace’s Cupola Room. ‘I hope that my look encourages people to wear what they want to wear, be who they want to be and take chances in life,’ Porter said.

The lavish look is rendered in a co ee mousse with pecan praline, chocolate feathers and gold sprinkles.

BJÖRK

IN MARJAN PEJOSKI AT THE 2001 ACADEMY AWARDS

There are more people who can tell you about Björk’s dress – so famous, it has its own Wikipedia page – than can name a song by the Icelandic singer. And while pundits at the time were unkind to the Marjan Pejoski-designed ensemble, which featured a sheer sequined body and feathered skirt, it has become one of this century’s most memorable red carpet looks. Brooke Martin recreates it as a pavlova with sugar eggs, meringue swans and passion fruit ganache. maybournebeverlyhills.com/ restaurants-bars/afternoon-tea/

LOVE Moderne

A CENTURY AGO, THE IRISH ARCHITECT EILEEN GRAY CHANGED THE RIVIERA’S CULTURAL HERITAGE FOREVER. JOHN O’CEALLAIGH REPORTS ON HER BEST- KNOWN BUILDING AND THE NEW MOVIE TELLING ITS TALE

Just downhill from The Maybourne Riviera, by the medieval village of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, a rocky outcrop allows an unimpeded view of the Mediterranean. Standing there a century ago, Irish designer and architect Eileen Gray was struck by a thought still common among visitors to this serene stretch of the Côte d’Azur: wouldn’t it be wonderful to live in a house here by the sea? But while most simply enjoy the fantasy, she acted on it. It was a decision that ultimately cemented her legacy.

Born in Wexford in 1878, Gray was always a trailblazer. She was among the first women admitted to London’s Slade School of Fine Art and moved to Paris in 1902, where she specialised in making lacquer furniture and opened a gallery that sold to the Rothschilds, James Joyce and Elsa Schiaparelli. She embraced the city’s liberal sensibilities and her own bisexuality. Wearing men’s suits and a tight bob, she turned heads, not least when zipping through town in a convertible, her girlfriend’s pet panther surveying boulevards from the back seat.

But it was a relationship with Romanian architect and editor Jean Badovici that altered her trajectory most drastically. Together, they discovered that rocky outcrop, a few minutes from the terracotta rooftops of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, and he encouraged her to design the home they would share. Gray was forty-eight when she began her first and ultimately most celebrated translation of self-taught architecture skills into bricks and mortar.

Completed in 1929, the villa is testament to a love story. Its name

– E-1027 – bound Badovici and Gray’s initials: in the alphabet, ten, two and seven correspond with the letters J, B and G. And the building became recognised as a modernist masterpiece that embodied principles of progressive design devised by architect and city planner Le Corbusier. Those five principles: pillars to support a structure and make the ground below accessible, a roof terrace that can serve as a garden, an open floor plan, a fuss-free façade and windows that run horizontally.

Beyond its technical finesse and stark silhouette, the house stood out for its adaptability, usability and fluidity. Furniture could be adjusted to meet residents’ needs, with wardrobes opening to become dividing walls, a living room sofa transforming into a bed, and a bedside table whose countertop moved up and down. Gray made that tweak so guests could eat toast still swaddled in blankets without scattering crumbs across the sheets: a thoughtful touch that showed her intuition for user-friendly design and suggested both a predisposition for neatness and a nous for hospitality.

Le Corbusier visited E-1027 frequently and was said to be envious that she had adapted his principles so successfully. But Gray’s

‘Le Corbusier visited E-1027 frequently and was said to be envious that she had adapted his principles so successfully’

Right and below:

E-1027's interior and exterior. Portrait of Irish archictect

Eileen Gray, 1926.

hesitancy to promote her pioneering work and daring creativity meant the villa didn’t receive broader recognition. ‘I was not a pusher,’ she reflected. ‘Maybe that’s the reason I did not get the place I should have had.’

Gray and Badovici’s relationship dissolved in 1932. The latter took ownership of E-1027 and Le Corbusier’s visits became more frequent. He entrenched himself locally, designing the timberframed Cabanon in which to spend summers. And he exacted revenge on E-1027 by painting a lurid mural across its intentionally plain walls; a desecration that, he admitted, ‘is not to enhance the wall but, on the contrary, a means to violently destroy [it].’

That spiteful act tainted Le Corbusier’s name but may have helped protect one of Gray’s most significant works: his handiwork added interest to a property that otherwise fell into disrepair.

But in 1967, an article in the influential Italian design magazine Domus revived interest in Gray’s work. Her first retrospective was held in London in 1972, with another in Dublin a year later. These were triumphs she lived to see before dying in 1976, and her renown has since only grown. Examples of her work are held by the V&A, the National Museum of Ireland and MoMA. In 2009, a piece she designed sold at auction for just shy of € 22 million, becoming the world’s most expensive chair.

This raised profile renewed attention on her now dilapidated home by the sea. It was purchased by a cultural collective in 1999, restored, and opened to the public in 2021. Meanwhile, Gray’s eventful life and uncompromising creativity continue to influence

‘Gray’s eventful life and uncompromising creativity continue to influence artists and architects’

artists and architects. Interior designer Bryan O’Sullivan – also from southern Ireland – paid tribute to Gray when developing ideas for The Maybourne Riviera; specifically in a stained-glass mural at the hotel that references her creativity.

‘She created spaces that were not only visually striking but also comfortable and functional,’ he enthuses, ‘designed to be lived in rather than simply admired.’ Of her architectural masterpiece, close to the striking clifftop hotel, O’Sullivan says: ‘The way E-1027 interacts with light, nature and movement makes it a truly special piece of design history.’

Gray continues to inspire and intrigue. Her story has been shared in a graphic novel – 2019’s Eileen Gray: A House Under the Sun – and in 2024’s ‘docufiction’ film Eileen Gray and the House by the Sea

But perhaps Gray’s greatest joy would come from knowing that E-1027 is protected and appreciated. She completed only a smattering of further architectural projects, but her archives show she was committed to making beautiful buildings that could be enjoyed by everybody. Once close to collapse, her seaside home is now a marvel that welcomes all.

Visit E-1027 from April to November. Tickets start at € 19 or can be booked via the Maybourne Riviera concierge. capmoderne. monuments-nationaux.fr Eileen Gray and the House by the Sea is released in the UK on the 16th of May maybourneriviera.com

Above: Modernistinspired features at the Maybourne Riviera

Below right: The Maybourne Riviera

Long T he REVIVAL Lunch

STILL SAY LUNCH IS FOR WIMPS? THINK AGAIN. TOM PARKER BOWLES HERALDS THE HEARTY RETURN OF THE MIDDAY MARATHON

Photography by BILLIE SCHEEPERS

Much depends on lunch. While breakfast is brief and dinner nite, lunch is almost eternal, lled with hope and happiness, anticipation, possibility and delight. It’s the last refuge of the civilised; a rite and ritual as exalted as High Mass. By ‘lunch’, I don’t mean the mundane mastication of a soggy, fridge-cold sandwich while chained to one’s desk. Or the dreary ignominy of the supermarket salad: limp, listless and seasoned with despair. I mean a serious lunch, a proper lunch, a long lunch: the sort of occasion that doesn’t suggest taking the afternoon o – rather downright demands it.

Lunch is never for wimps. Gordon Gecko got that wrong. It’s a meal that requires pacing, stamina, guts, dedication and grit.

‘Shall we go straight in?’ was, according to Kingsley Amis, one of the most depressing questions in the English language. He had a point, as lunch is not lunch without a preprandial snifter, sharpener,

heart-starter, or don’t-mind-if-I do. The rst drink – be it a chilled Manzanilla, a no-nonsense negroni or a martini that, in Lawrence Durrell’s words, courses through the system ‘like ice through the rigging’ – is a statement of intent, a setting of the tone for the long afternoon ahead.

‘A proper lunch should never be hurried, nor should business be its only aim’

Unlike dinner, which ends at night, lunch is full of surprises. It may saunter home for a kip, or meld into dinner, or skip o in a di erent direction altogether. I’ve heard tales of lunches in Soho ending with breakfast in Berlin. That is the fundamental joy: the blank canvas, that sense of adventure and intrigue.

The right friends are essential. The ones who know that ‘Lunch?’ – posed via text, email or Whatsapp – has no ambiguity. Sparkling water may play a role. But it will most certainly not be the star.

I probably have Claridge’s to thank for my love of lunch. In the incarnations of the restaurant, from Gordon Ramsay through Simon Rogan and Daniel Humm, and back to Claridge’s, it’s a room where I’ve spent many a merry daylight hour – and continue to do so.

At the dawn of the eighties, a string quartet was in permanent residence and our spaghetti bolognese was revealed from under a cloche. My grandmother, just like her mother before her, took a permanent suite at the hotel. (‘So much easier, darling, than the hassle of a whole house. And they really are so kind to one.’) There were thick white linen napkins, waiters dressed in tails, Coca-Cola in heavy glasses with a fat slice of lemon, and the feeling that all was well in the world. Even without the booze, lunch was something to be taken very seriously indeed.

The boozy version came later. Working as a green-behind-the-ears lm PR in Soho at the end of the nineties, I was looking after Alan Parker, the brusque but brilliant director of Midnight Express and Mississippi Burning. ‘Right, posh boy, we’re going for a proper lunch,’ he growled after a meeting with my boss. Said lovely boss pulled me aside: ‘He’s the client, so do as you’re told. But be careful. Try not to keep up.’ Did I heed her wise words? Did I hell. Five hours later, I staggered back from Soho House, over Dean Street, to the o ce – and passed out in my chair. Parker carried on regardless.

Then there was my rst ‘three martini’ lunch at Rowley Leigh’s Kensington Place: a high church of daytime feasts. There, the serious lunch was taken to a high art, just as it was at Le Caprice, 192, The Ivy, J Sheekey, The Wolseley (under Jeremy King), The River Cafe, Bentley’s, The Connaught, Claridge’s, St. John, HIX Soho and The Groucho Club. At Kensington Place, my fellow guests were Rowley, chef and writer Simon Hopkinson and the irately saintly Jonathan Meades. I didn’t make it to the table, let alone lunch. Poured into a cab way before the real drinking began, I soon learned about pace.

A proper lunch should never be hurried, nor should business be its only aim. The power lunch of the eighties and nineties was very much a thing, as tycoons, impresarios, entrepreneurs, agents and producers hammered out the future over yellowtail with jalapeno (Nobu), Bang Bang chicken (Le Caprice), pasta Schillaci (San Lorenzo, circa 1990) and a glass or ve of La Tache. But deals were byproducts of decent lunches, not the sole aim. As aperitifs moved to white, white to

abc kitchens at The Emory

The Connaught Grill

red, and red to brandy and stickies, so the appetite was piqued, the imagination red, and the mind opened to all.

It helped that expense accounts were as rich and voluminous as a sou lé Suissesse at Le Gavroche, and that long lunches were not just taken, but expected. Even the most junior hack, stockbroker and advertising executive learned to leave a jacket on the back of their chair and slip out for a long ’un. Then came the noughties, and the invasion of that strange, mainly American mindset that saw a glass of wine with lunch as tantamount to treason; a sybaritic sin that withers the morals and corrupts the soul.

Reports of the death of the long lunch are greatly exaggerated, though. Admittedly, things are di erent these days. Once I could handle two, if not three, sessions per week. Now, one a month will do ne. And who, I hear you cry, has time to spend four hours in thrall to one’s gut? What about Zoom calls and Teams chats and working from home? Well, chefs, restaurant critics and food writers can always make the time. The earlier in the week the better, adding to a sense of bunking o school and sticking one to the man.

Lunchers never feel a smidgen of guilt. We work, then we play. Sometimes at the same time. Don’t tell me Charles Dickens, James Joyce and Dorothy Parker stuck to Coke Zero. All my books are the result of bibulous daytime feasts, and I’m not alone. At the altar of lunch worship chefs, food critics and writers, restaurateurs, hoteliers, gadabouts,, loafers, ne’er-do-wells, bons vivants and boulevardiers. They meet as often as diaries allow; celebrating friendship, appreciating good food and grog, and understanding the unifying power of the lunch table, with its ability to stimulate and delight. It’s an essential, rather than an indulgence. So log out, get out, and gather round that table. I’ll see you at lunch in a bit.

OTHER GREAT RESTAURANTS FOR A LONG LUNCH

SCOTTS Mount Street, W1

THE RIVER CAFÉ Thames Wharf, W6

THE PARK Queensway, W2

HARRY’S BAR South Audley Street, W1

OTTO’S Gray’s Inn Road, WC1

MOUNTAIN Beak Street, W1

Hélène Darroze at The Connaught

Monarch gems OF THE

THIS SUMMER, THE V&A PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE ‘JEWELLER OF KINGS’. MING LIU TAKES IN CARTIER’S STUNNING NEW LONDON EXHIBITION

Jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers,’ declared Edward VII. Beloved of royals and aristocrats, maharajas and tsars, Cartier was the chosen house for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and her sister Margaret. But it’s also been a go-to for celebrities from Mexican actress María Félix and charity champion Begum Om Habibeh Aga Khan to Rihanna, Michelle Obama and Timothée Chalamet.

This roster of famous fans testi es to Cartier’s enduring design, which is explored richly in a new exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Featuring more than 350 jewels, timepieces and objects, it’s the rst major showcase of Cartier in this country since a British Museum exhibition in 1997. And it’s set to be a hit: advance tickets sold out immediately (more have since been made available).

‘With its world-class jewellery collection, the V&A is the perfect stage to celebrate the achievements of Cartier, and its transformative ability to remain at the centre of culture and creativity for more than a century,’ say curators Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan, Cartier has held a royal warrant – authorising it to display the royal arms – since 1904 and visitors will no doubt make a beeline for noble jewels, including pieces lent by King Charles. His mother, Queen Elizabeth, received a pink diamond as a wedding gift in 1947 and commissioned a stunning brooch featuring the gem in 1953, the year of her coronation. This is displayed alongside a drawing by the brooch’s designer: Frederick Mew of Cartier London, which was established in Mayfair in 1902.

Also on display is a 1938 rose clip brooch, worn by Princess

Grace Kelly wears Cartier on the set of High Society

Margaret to her sister’s coronation. ‘It represents a very interesting link between Cartier and this exhibition,’ says the house’s image, style and heritage director Pierre Rainero, ‘underlining the link with the royal family… but also with the culture of Great Britain.’

Cartier’s royal influence spans the globe. In 1928, the Maharaja of Patiala commissioned a ceremonial diamond necklace and choker, which demonstrated Cartier’s masterful fusing of Indian jewellery tradition with art deco modernism. Grace Kelly’s 1956 diamond engagement ring is also on display: she wore the 10.48ct emerald-cut classic in High Society, her last lm before she married Prince Rainier III of Monaco.

Queen Elizabeth II with, on left, Princess Anne of Edinburgh and Prince Charles, by society photographer Marcus Adams, London, 1954. Prince Charles is six years old and Princess Anne is four

The princess’s ring is just one of the pieces sourced from international museums and private collections, exhibited alongside historic gemstones and objects from the Victoria and Albert’s own collection. ‘We wanted to tell the story of Cartier through the eyes of the V&A,’ explains Rachel Garrahan. ‘The company and institution share similar outlooks on creativity, craftsmanship and innovation.’

Not to be missed is the Manchester Tiara, commissioned in 1903 by the Dowager Duchess of Manchester, who supplied more than 1,000 brilliant-cut diamonds and 400 rose-cut diamonds for the breathtaking creation.

A 1925 sarcophagus-style vanity case is displayed alongside drawings from The Grammar of Ornament, a nineteenth-century sourcebook by Owen Jones that is still in use today. Cartier consulted it to create the case because, as Garrahan notes, the house ‘took a very scholarly approach in the way they looked for inspiration’.

‘That distinctive style – somehow both modern and timeless – is why creations made a century ago continue to hold such a spell over us’

Elle Fanning in a 1958 Cartier choker at the 2025 Academy Awards

A crowd-pleasing section dedicated to tiaras features standouts such as an art deco diamond and platinum halo piece inspired by ancient Egypt and worn by Begum Om Habibeh Aga Khan. And there are commissions for coronations, such as an opal, diamond and platinum tiara for Mary Cavendish, Marchioness of Hartington. The opals were a gift from her husband, when the couple toured Australia and New Zealand. Cavendish wore it for ‘Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, which she attended in her role as Mistress of the Robes.

A piece that truly exempli es the appeal of Cartier is the Scroll Tiara. It was commissioned by the Countess of Essex, who wore it to Edward VII’s 1902 coronation. Winston Churchill’s wife Clementine wore it to Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953 and – making just as much of a splash – Rihanna wore it for a W magazine cover in 2016.

‘That distinctive Cartier style – that is somehow both modern and timeless, combined with the highest quality of gems and workmanship – is why extraordinary creations made a century ago continue to hold such a spell over so many of us,’ says Francesca Cartier Brickell, great-granddaughter of one of the brothers who put the house on the map, and author of The Cartiers: The Untold Story of the Family Behind the Jewelry Empire Romance and art, beauty and originality: such are Cartier’s legacy and signature. As Cartier Brickell’s great-grandfather Jacques put it: ‘A jewel should be ahead of fashion – while also being su ciently outside of fashion not to fade with it.’

The Berkeley has partnered with the V&A to o er a special one-night package which includes two tickets to the Cartier exhibition, a hardback exhibition catalogue, a bottle of champagne, and breakfast for two; nd out more at the-berkeley.co.uk.

Cartier is at the V&A until 16 November.

Lady Churchill, wife of Sir Winston Churchill, on Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Day.

Nicholas Foulkes CARTIER’S WATCHES ON

THE

HISTORIAN, AUTHOR, JOURNALIST AND COHOST OF THE AFTER HOURS SHOW WITH GEORGE BAMFORD AT THE EMORY OFFERS HIS THOUGHTS

TANK LOUIS CARTIER

Large model, mechanical movement with automatic winding, 18K rose gold, leather. Available from September 2025 at cartier.com

‘The story is that this watch was inspired by the Renault tanks Louis Cartier saw on the Western Front. The rst was created in 1917, so it wasn’t their rst wristwatch. Nevertheless, the Tank is the one that has endured. When you picture a Rolex, you think of an Oyster, and when you imagine a Cartier, you think of a Tank. Dai Llewellyn, a great playboy of the 1960s, said all you need is a Rolex for the beach and a Tank for dinner. If you have a Tank on your arm, you don’t have anything to worry about.’

CRASH WRISTWATCH

Made by Wright & Davies for Cartier London, 1967. Sapphire, gold, blued steel and leather strap

‘There’s a story that this was a watch that was brought in for repair after a car crash. This is almost certainly not true. It was designed in the late sixties as a response to the fashions of that time. There was some resistance to it. I spoke to one of the guys at Cartier, and he told me Mr Cartier himself was reluctant to work on it, because it was a bit too “Carnaby Street”. It wasn’t hugely popular. The actor Stewart Granger returned his, preferring something more wearable. Yet it developed a cult following. Now, a Crash from the sixties is a million-dollar watch.'

‘I’m a fan. Cartier does elegance and beauty very well. There was a period about ten years ago when they started to do complications [functions or features that go beyond the simple display of time]. I was against this, as it’s not the spirit of Cartier. Nevertheless, as makers of elegant timepieces, they are fantastic.’

PANTHER SKIN WRISTWATCH

Cartier Paris, 1914. Onyx, diamonds, pink gold, platinum and black moiré strap

‘In 1914, Louis Cartier staged an exhibition, and the invitation featured a panther illustration. Also, Louis Cartier’s lover Jeanne Toussaint was nicknamed “The Panther” and had panther-skin coats and carpets. Even today, the Cartier panther is a really big thing – it’s their animal of choice.

‘It all started in this very abstract way, with dark-against-white spots in Cartier’s designs. It was very illusive and subtle. Then, over time, it became less abstract and more gurative.

‘It’s odd, in that the motif starts as abstract and ends up being gurative. Usually, things start gurative and become more abstract. Still, this is an important watch.’

The After Hours Show, hosted by Nicholas Foulkes and George Bamford at The Emory, can be streamed on YouTube: youtube.com /@The_AfterHoursShow

TO WITH Paris Love

FASHIONABLE BRITS –INCLUDING MAYBOURNE – ARE TAKING UP RESIDENCE IN PARIS.

LAUREN COCHRANE

TRACKS THE STYLISH SET MAKING A HOME IN THE CAPITAL OF CHIC

The Maybourne Saint-Germain; left: the SaintGermain-desPrés district.

Why is Maybourne developing a palace-style hotel and 23 residences to Paris’ iconic Saint-Germaindes-Prés district? You could say the whole project is surprisingly on trend. Fashion has long linked Paris and Great Britain. In the rst half of the twentieth century, Hampstead couturier Edward Molyneux was celebrated in the French capital. Wales's Meredith Etherington-Smith was the London editor for Vogue Paris in the seventies; the era in which Maryleboneborn Jane Birkin and child of Essex Charlotte Rampling were con rmed as darlings of French culture. In 2025, those connections are being reestablished.

At Vogue Paris, Claire Thomson-Jonville – born in Glasgow and raised in the Cotswolds – has been appointed head of editorial content. Today, she sees herself as ‘Parisian’ but adds: ‘I have a mix of both cultures. An outsider’s perspective can be really interesting.’

At the quintessentially French house of Givenchy, Sarah Burton – formerly of Alexander McQueen, and the designer of Kate Middleton’s wedding dress — joins as creative director. She’ll stand alongside other Brits showcasing work on Parisian catwalks, including Victoria Beckham and the O -White label’s Sierre Leoneborn but London-based Ib Kamara.

Sealing the British invasion of the city of light, Maybourne’s development opens in the chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood in 2027. Featuring 23 exquisitely appointed residences (each of which is available for purchase) and a palace-style hotel, its designers include Pierre-Yves Rochon (who has conjured stores for Boucheron and Chopard) and Laura Gonzalez

IMAGES: GETTY, ANNONCE

Clockwise from left: a bedoom at The Maybourne Saint-Germain; the Surrenne pool at The Maybourne SaintGermain; an interior at The Maybourne Saint-Germain; The Maybourne SaintGermain from above.

(Cartier, Louboutin). Maybourne's fashion connections, of course, run deep. Claridge's Christmas tree, for example, is dressed by a di erent designer each year; Paul Smith did the honours in 2024.

Anglo -French writer Alice Pfei er, author of Je ne suis pas Parisienne, has lived between London and Paris since childhood. She says the flow of female talent to the French capital is ‘a tradition of anglaises à paris’, with the likes of Kristin Scott Thomas following Birkin and Rampling. The British sensibility appeals, Pfei er says, because it disrupts the rules of French society: ‘The Birkin bag was made so Jane could carry her baby supplies, which is such an honest, unbourgeois request. [It] made her somewhat relatable.’

France has often been inspired by what’s happening in the United Kingdom. ‘Jean Paul Gaultier and Hedi Slimane have a long history of delving into British trends and giving them a Parisian savoir-faire,’ notes Pfei er. And Sarah Burton’s tenure at Givenchy is the latest example of British designers coming to French brands: a trend that, in the nineties, saw Stella McCartney at Chloé, Alexander McQueen at Givenchy and John Galliano at Dior.

The new wave is a little less rock ’n’ roll but no less charming. ‘Sarah Burton is very approachable,’ says Harriet Walker, fashion

editor of The Times. ‘She’s not that kind of ivory tower couturier, with a glacial expression. I wonder whether there is an attraction in French culture to having someone like that in charge.’ Speaking before Burton’s rst show, Thomson-Jonville suggested the designer would bring ‘a new energy, which is always exciting, especially to see a woman at the helm of such a historic maison’.

Paris remains the epicentre of couture, which no doubt tempted Burton from her London home. There is also – as any guest of The Maybourne Saint-Germain will attest – the capital itself. ‘It’s just a city that looks, e ortlessly, like all the pictures,’ says Harriet Walker. ‘You feel like someone in a lm.’

‘I love how blunt the French are about the most paradoxical things,’ Alice Pfei er smiles. ‘They will never ask you your salary but will share every detail of their sex life.’ And the last word goes to Claire Thomson-Jonville, who has lived in the capital since her twenties and remains entranced: ‘I love walking around and constantly discovering new things. Paris never gets old for me.’

The Maybourne Saint-Germain – a palace-style hotel and 23 residences – is scheduled to open in 2027. maybourne.com; maybourneresidencessaintgermain.com

PARIS BRANDS TO KNOW

The city of light excels in fashion. Here are three brands to shop now

AMI

Alexandre Mattiussi started AMI in 2011, and it’s now known for a relaxed take on preppy. Sweaters, shirts and shorts are standouts.

ba&sh

Founded in 2003 by childhood friends

Sharon and Barbara, who wanted to bring their dream wardrobes to life, this brand’s aesthetic is based on effortless French sexiness and confident femininity.

Maison Michel Famed for its hats, this classically Parisian brand oozes everything we love and revere about French street style. With a history that can be traced back to 1936, it’s a heritage brand that has both evolved and flourished, capturing the spirit of each new generation with pieces that define an era.

Right : Claire Thomson-Jonville. Below: Sarah Burton

Right: ba&sh's Claudia boot. Far right: AMI's Carrousel bag. Top: Maison Michel's Andre hat

Mind, Body and Surrenne

TODAY’S MOST EXCLUSIVE SPAS AREN’T SKIN - DEEP. KATY YOUNG SPEAKS TO THE PRACTITIONERS AND CREATIVES BEHIND SURRENNE, WHERE BRAIN SCANS AND MAXING YOUR ‘HEALTHSPAN’ ARE ALL PART OF THE SERVICE

Connected by technology, we swipe and scroll, but might be weakening valuable emotional and social ties. ‘This has inspired a shift in hotels and hospitality,’ says Hattie David-Wilkinson, Maybourne’s Global Scienti c and Wellbeing Lead. ‘There’s a new focus on membership, social community and connection – to each other, to our ethos, and to ourselves.’

Social relationships support longevity and reduce depression and anxiety, so it makes sense that a hospitality renaissance should begin at Surrenne: a state-of-the-art wellness club whose 18,000 square feet are set over four storeys in Belgravia. The tness floor hosts celebrity trainer Tracy Anderson’s Method, while the wet zone goes beyond a steam and sauna, with an aloe vera station for post-heat exposure, couples’ cabanas, and a pool that plays meditative sounds through the water.

Designed by Rémi Tessier, the space flows like a gentle pulse from the warm entrance to the cocooning treatment rooms. Lighting dims and brightens according to circadian rhythms and a calming soundtrack never repeats itself.

‘Wellness creates connection,’ says David-Wilkinson. ‘Our members are wonderfully curious.’ Surrenne’s group timetable and newsletter encourage members to enjoy, experience and, most importantly, share the promising frontier of tness, health and longevity.

‘We invited psychotherapist Emily Pailthorpe to talk about how

THE EXPERTS

TRACY ANDERSON

HATTIE DAVID - WILKINSON

DR MACRENE ALEXIADES

DR MARK MIKHAIL

‘We all want a flow state, in which we engage but also shut out the noise’

‘There are few people out there who want to live forever. An extra decade? Yes. A century? Absolutely not’

frequencies in music a ect our mental and physical health, while a thirteen-piece orchestra played by the pool,’ David-Wilkinson remarks. ‘It sparked a great discussion.’ Also thought-provoking is the Surrenne Reads book club (opposite), which sends out futurethinking wellness titles and invites authors to visit and ignite conversation.

‘Members share their ethos and their curiosity,’ reveals Surrenne’s medical director Dr Mark Mikhail. Of his role as leader of the Longevity Clinic, he explains: ‘There are few people who want to live forever. An extra decade? Yes. An extra century? Absolutely not. Very broadly, our members want to understand how to avoid cognitive and mobility decline, and to increase their “healthspan”.

‘Wellbeing is a noisy space and there’s an awful lot out there. So we help members navigate their journey and push their boundaries. The biggest advantage we can give people is an understanding of what’s going on in their own bodies; what’s bene cial and what’s not.’

The journey begins the same for every member: observations,

blood marker tests, hormone pro ling and VO₂ max tests, to assess metabolic functions and calorie requirements. ‘We don’t flood members with data,’ Dr Mikhail says. ‘There is no point talking about longevity if you don’t come from a good base of health. We tackle small things, bit by bit.

‘We are all in a state of flux, and your goals will always evolve. For example, new members often send me photos of cupboards packed full of contradictory supplements. We might advise taking a complete break in the routine, so you understand how you work with or without them. It allows you to know your body better.

‘If your results show that health markers are raised, or your goals float into the healthcare space, you might want to move into my world for more advanced testing.’

Your Surrenne programme includes supplements, nutritional recommendations, tness routines and facials tailored for you. A concierge manages your bookings, updates you via WhatsApp and launders your kit.

‘Massage and bodywork are still important,’ notes Hattie

Right: white onyx treatment room at Surrenne

David-Wilkinson. FaceGym facials and shiatsu and Thai massages in immersive treatment rooms encourage the release of physical and emotional tension.

And a new frontier awaits. ‘We’re developing a brain-training programme in LA,’ enthuses Dr Mikhail. ‘We can really help maintain brain and mobility power. The assessments will begin with a full ECG analysis, to learn how your brain manages stress. Ideally, we all want a flow state, in which we engage but also shut out the noise and think.’

More advancements are expected from a new Surrenne Advisory Board, including Dr Mikhail, longevity expert Dr Sandra Kaufmann, nutritionist Rose Ferguson, tness director Simon Inman, hypnotherapist Malminder Gill and dermatologist Dr Macrene Alexiades. Its ndings will roll out to all Maybourne hotels, beginning with The Maybourne Riviera, where Surrenne’s second space opens in June. There is, naturally, a waiting list. But another ten years may be the result, so it’s surely worth the wait. surrenne.com

CHOICES FROM OUR SCIENCE - LED WELLNESS BOOK CLUB

GENIUS GUT: The Life-Changing Science of Eating for Your Second Brain by Dr Emily Leeming (Penguin) Acclaimed dietician, microbiome scientist and chef Dr Emily Leeming outlines the powerful two-way path between our gut and brain, and o ers proven, easy-tounderstand gut-brain hacks. Eat your way to peak wellbeing!

REWIRE: Break the Cycle, Alter Your Thoughts and Create Lasting Change by Nicole Vignola (Michael Joseph)

Controlling stress via breathing exercises? Improving meetings and performances by visualising outcomes? Toughening up by truly believing in your abilities? It’s all in this practical guide to neuroscience.

WHY WE DIE: The New Science of Ageing and Longevity by Venki Ramakrishnan (Hodder & Stoughton) British-American biologist Venki Ramakrishnan earned a Nobel Prize for chemistry and was president of the Royal Society. He sets out the scienti c discoveries surrounding ageing, and our best chances of extending life.

THE POWER OF HORMONES: How Decoding Your Body’s Signals Can Transform Your Health and Wellbeing by Dr Max Nieuwdorp (Simon & Schuster)

How many of us understand the way hormones work? Dutch endocrinologist Dr Max Nieuwdorp explains how the body messengers drive almost every process within us, from sleep to stress, and weight loss to immunity.

Above: treatment room at Surrenne

From new launches to vintage classics, there is very little that watch experts Nicholas Foulkes and George Bamford don’t know about the art of timekeeping. For lively dispatches from the upper tier of the watch world, catch their After Hours Show, hosted at The Emory, home of horology. youtube.com/ @The_AfterHoursShow

Tik talk A PERFECT

Beyond the characteristic cladding – choose between Richard Mille’s trademark Grade 5 titanium, or a new terracotta colourway in ceramic – the RM 16 - 02 marks an evolution in terms of size and fit. Ten per cent smaller than its predecessor, the new model is dubbed the ExtraFlat for its slimmeddown profile. richardmille.com

Timing

IS EVERYTHING

WATCHES

TO EXCITE BY BILL PRINCE, EDITOR - IN - CHIEF OF WALLPAPER * AND THE BLEND

BACK TO THE FUTURE

Patek Philippe’s first new collection in a quarter-century features handsome steel and rose gold that neatly channels heady eighties style. patek.com

FROM THE ARCHIVES

The basic architecture is there: the distinctive lumen battens, the sturdy crown guard. But in pure watchmaking terms, little remains of the Luminor’s military forebears. The latest generation includes a highly engineered GMT Perpetual Calendar reference in hardened platinum that allows date-setting adjustments via the crown. panerai.com

IN THE RED…

Twenty years after Dior debuted the Chi re Rouge collection comes the rst watch to truly dial up the rouge aspect – with a fumé dial of ery red and deep black lacquer. dior.com BANG FOR

YOUR BUCKS

Celebrating twenty years of the Big Bang, a new series of limited editions holds true to Hublot’s restless innovation. Besides iterations in titanium and its proprietary King Gold, the brand continues to explore fresh hues in coloured ceramics: now a calling card of the company. hublot.com

Kiss me

Rodin’s The Kiss inspired David Morris’s latest high jewellery: round, brilliant diamonds evoke the sensual and controversial 1882 sculpture. Rows of microset diamonds entwine in necklaces and curve around centre stones in dazzling white gold rings, such as the Frozen Kiss ring (right). £19,500, davidmorris.com FOLLOW YOUR HEART

& Us Gems

Chanel’s Coco Crush collection celebrates its hallmark quilting, first seen in 1955. Think quilted gold rings and bracelets set with a slash of pavé diamonds and cool, diamond-studded earrings that rock Chanel’s signature asymmetry. Logos make their way into fun gold hoops that dangle from ‘C’ studs and diamond pendants jazzed up with quilted detail. chanel.com

Colour me happy

D&G, CHANEL AND VAN CLEEF & ARPELS ARE ALL IN MING LIU’S MUST- HAVES THIS SEASON

Bejewelled crosses are set to be a thing, thanks in part to Kim Kardashian stepping out in the 'Attallah Cross' pendant once worn by HRH Princess Diana. Dolce & Gabbana’s new 'Easy Rainbow' collection exudes the same head-turning vibes: bold stones in joyful shapes and cuts. From £495, dolcegabbana.com

Hearts are synonymous with Chopard: enduring symbols of love and sustainability, a cause it has long championed in the world of luxury. This L’Heure du Diamant earring and pendant suite (POA) showcases the house’s proprietary crownsetting, with V-shaped prongs for optimal radiance. chopard.com

IMMERSED IN LUXURY

Van Cleef & Arpels now has two flagship stores on London’s New Bond Street. New at number 169 is an enchanted forest-like space, with lush foliage crafted from Murano glass leaves and sculpted lacquered and gilding panels. It’s home to pieces such as this Alhambra set with blue agate, trimmed in yellow gold

From £1,300. vancleefarpels.com

Licensed to thrill

Outfitting Bond is one of the biggest accolades for a men’s brand. British swimwear titan Orlebar Brown dressed Daniel Craig in Skyfall and riffs on the relationship in a ‘Golden’ collection that marks fifty years of The Man with the Golden Gun and sixty years of Goldfinger. It plays on the stylings of those classics, with a baby-blue playsuit and debonair shirts. orlebarbrown.com

DRESSING TO & BOND

New & Lingwood make devilishly enjoyable dressing gowns: sumptuous silk affairs erupting with peacock patterns of blooming flora, alongside traditional velvet ensembles. Now they’ve added a Savile Row sensibility, with a bespoke service to fine-tune material, pattern, trims, piping and fit. Noël Coward would be enraptured. newandlingwood.com

STEPHEN DOIG SELECTS THE FINEST MEN’S FASHION AND ACCESSORIES OF THE SEASON

STEP UP

Spring calls for vim and vigour, which is why the smart trainer is upon us: dynamic but not overly gymcentric, and designed to look seamless with a suit. Dunhill debuts a ‘tailored sneaker’ in soft leather with subtle stitching inspired by its motoring history (above). Meanwhile, Zegna tweaks its bestselling Triple Stitch sneaker – as seen in Succession – with a range focused on customisation (left) dunhill.com, zegna.com

TWENTIES PLENTY

Founded in 1916, Acqua di Parma never fails to deliver debonair scents. This season sees the launch of Colonia Il Profumo: a delicious blend of citrus, bergamot and vetiver. acquadiparma.com

Fit for a king

Outfitters to King Charles, Hackett are known for traditional excellence. And for an everyman wardrobe, the Hackett London range is flawless. In a new campaign, motor-racing stars Carlos Sainz senior and junior (above) don classic chinos and selvedge denim jeans, to show off the brand’s casual side. hackett.com

Montblanc’s Great Gatsby range exudes the seductive style of the novel’s era, from pens in black and gold to after-dark gemstones and malachite tones that call the Jazz Age to mind. montblanc.com

The world’s most stylish women call upon 16Arlington’s Marco Capaldo for fashion that feels as good as it looks. His work inspires celebration and confidence, and the spring/summer collection might be his hottest yet. 16arlington.co.uk

V FOR VIVA!

Alessandro Michele’s tenure at Gucci transformed how we see fashion. Now at Valentino, Michele is again waving his more-is-more wand. To take on the aesthetic, add an accessory – ideally in a clashing print. Check out the Viva Superstar bag, showcasing his update on the Valentino logo. valentino.com

SUMMERTIME

In

& CARRY Clash

THE SEASON’S BEST LOOKS, SELECTED BY NAOMI PIKE Bring the bling! Jessica McCormack’s Rush Hour collection has a highly polished, wonderfully reflecting nish. Superfresh and magpie-magni cent. jessicamccormack.com

TO THE BARRE

Chanel’s tweed ballerina flats for the new season look as good with jeans and a plain white T-shirt as they do with your warm-weather wardrobe. chanel.com

Rediscover your inner lady via the trend for top-handle handbags. Think classic, and your wise investment will last a lifetime. Pair Aspinal’s Mayfair style with a masculine suit, baggy jeans or even a breezy cotton dress. The clash is where the sartorial magic happens. aspinaloflondon.com

Carey Mulligan fronts Prada’s spring/summer collection. Photographed by Steven Meisel, she portrays characters devised by author Ottessa Moshfegh. The common thread? An enviable Prada wardrobe. prada.com

The sun isn’t always a given, but this genius liquid bronzer will never let you down. Seamlessly blendable, the formula layers easily over makeup, for a flawless finish with zero fuss. Carrot oil and a prebiotic moisturising complex help hydrate and nourish skin. From £53, westman-atelier.com

BILLIE BHATIA SUN - KISSED

Summer

OTO is a British brand that harnesses CBD for sleep, calm, focus, and skin and hormone health. Its Mushroom Complex serves a dose of brain-enhancing focus, while the Night Time Complex ensures rest for body and mind. Day & Night Complex Duo, £75, otowellbeing.com

NEW AND CLASSIC BRANDS TO SAVOUR THIS SEASON BY

Made in Mayfair

House of Creed has dug into its archives to revive the beloved Royal Mayfair. Woody, floral and fresh, the fragrance embodies Mayfair’s re ned, elegant charm, with layers of luxurious scent. It draws from Scottish Highland pine, combining energising eucalyptus, orange zest and bergamot; alluring for men and women.

£330 for 100ml, exclusively at Creed boutiques and creedfragrances.co.uk

SCENTS OF WONDER

Sure to elevate any room, Diptyque’s diffusers are a celebration of elegant Art Deco design and olfactory excellence. Slowly scenting rooms rather than overpowering them, they are available in the brand’s best known varieties, including figuier (fig tree), baies (berries), roses and fleur d’oranger. From £60, diptyqueparis.com

PERSonalised to perfection

LOVE Love HEALING

HANDS

Ross J. Barr is a name uttered in many a circle of smart women. An expert in women’s health, he treats everything from fertility issues to hormonal imbalance. Specialising in Five Element Acupuncture, he treats clients holistically – taking their physical, mental and spiritual states into account. That means no two appointments are ever the same. Book your consultations via Claridge’s Spa. claridges.co.uk

This chic vegan brand was one of France’s best kept secrets… until now. We love the high performance duos and award-winning retinols. pers-skincare.com

THE PHOEBE RING BY PHILIPPA HERBERT

THE INSIDE TRACK

LONDON / CÔTE D’AZUR / BEVERLY HILLS

Celebrated pâtissier Nicolas

is rolling out his global brand. Look for Maison de Haute Pâtisserie Nicolas

in glamorous locales across the world, and enjoy Nicolas Rouzaud at The Connaught on Mount Street. the-connaught.co.uk

Rouzaud

Rouzaud

Check

Out…

THE LATEST NEWS AND VIEWS FROM MAYBOURNE

Dog days

Swapping cars for canines, this summer sees Goodwood present Goodwoof: its annual celebration of man’s best friend. On May 17 and 18, The Kennels – Goodwood’s clubhouse – and the surrounding estate will host experiences to delight visitors both two and four-legged.

This year’s highlights include a dog astrologer, barkour athletics, a pooch-inspired literary corner and the Ministry of Hound dog disco. The fêted Barkitecture kennel design competition also makes a welcome return, presented by Grand Designs’ Kevin McCloud. Both days will begin with a parade of this year’s celebrated breed, the dachshund.

In the furry festive spirit, a limited-edition dachshund cake will be available at Nicolas Rouzaud at The Connaught throughout May – an edible companion for The Connaught Hound. the-connaught.co.uk; goodwood.com/goodwoof

THOMAS KOCHS RETURNS TO CLARIDGE’ S

Returning guests are a good sign for a hotel, but equally welcome are returning professionals. Such is the case with Thomas Kochs, who has come back to Claridge’s as managing director. General manager from 2009 to 2015, he has also held senior positions at The Berkeley and The Connaught, and most recently, Corinthia London.

‘I am looking forward to being reunited with a hotel and colleagues very dear to my heart, and steering Claridge’s into the next chapter of its distinguished history,’ he says.

‘I am particularly proud to be rejoining Maybourne as it enters a dynamic period of global growth and expansion, and seeing this vision come to life.’ claridges.co.uk

Star attraction

We always knew The Maybourne Beverly Hills was a A-list, but it’s nice to know others see it that way too. In February, Forbes Travel Guide awarded the hotel five stars – its highest rating –with a review entitled ‘Spanish Colonial Elegance in Tinseltown’.

‘Located smack-dab in the middle of Beverly Hills’ Golden Triangle, The Maybourne Beverly Hills is the pinnacle of decadence that has come to represent the neighborhood,’ says Forbes. ‘After settling in, head to the rooftop to dine at Dante Beverly Hills — an outpost of the NYC institution known for its cocktails —while savoring views of the Hollywood Hills.’ forbestravelguide.com

IN FULL BLOOM

The Claridge’s lobby is a firmly reliable weather gauge. Tall, whimsical bunches of tulips, sprays of cherry blossom or sweetly fragrant hyacinths on every surface? Must be spring. Pretty little bowing snowdrops and beautiful, oversized cyclamen blanketed in soft moss? It’s winter. But summer is where the real showstoppers reside. Vibrant yellow sunflowers, elegant pink peonies and plump bunches of roses and hydrangeas fill the hotel with a sense of drama that is hard to beat. Happily, the team at Claridge’s Flowers is also able to bring that drama to their bouquets to order. Hurrah for the British summertime! claridgesflowers.co.uk

CHEERS!

This season, we are proudly raising a glass to BillecartSalmon, our new in-house Champagne. One of the few remaining family-owned houses – currently on its seventh generation – and dating back to 1818, this prestigious brand is based in the village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. It produces some of the finest Champagne in the world –and we know just the places to enjoy it... maybourne.com

Riviera renewed

STYLE ICONS

This summer, acclaimed chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten (top left) will transform The Maybourne Riviera’s rooftop into a stunning new restaurant. Inspired by his world-famous concepts in New York and London, abc kitchens riviera will focus on Mediterranean flavours and regional specialities, highlighting locally sourced ingredients, with unparalleled, panoramic ocean views to match. This year, Cannes culinary legend, La Môme, also takes over the hotel’s beach club, renaming it La Môme Riviera, and bringing its iconic joie de vivre – as well as signature dishes. Sébastien Tantot (left) keeps all running smoothly, in his new role as Executive Chef. Meanwhile, Surrenne Riviera, Maybourne’s groundbreaking wellness club, also opens, offering scientific treatments, ancient remedies, personalised therapies, and expert-led fitness practices. maybourneriviera.com

LA-based eyewear designer Franco Eyramian (on the left in the picture) has created a collection for The Maybourne Beverly Hills. The frames, in four unique designs, have been fitted for team members by Eyramian, whose landmark store Luxuriator by Franco is just a few moments’ walk from the hotel.

The ‘Face comes first’ collection includes custom colours and Zeiss digital lenses. ‘Luxury is in the details,’ says the hotel’s general manager Sam Jagger (on the right), ‘not only for our guests, but for our team. Luxuriator by Franco is known for pieces that are functional and stylish. Our team’s eyewear will be as exceptional as our service.’ francobeverlyhills.com

CAPRI IN THE CITY

Ciao, bella! This season, the Berkeley Rooftop Pool will be acquiring a little summertime sprezzatura, when it is restyled as an Italian waterside escape, dubbed Capri in the City. Expect classics such as spaghetti with clams, seafood salad and torta caprese, all served beside the blue waters of the Berkeley Rooftop Pool. the-berkeley.co.uk

Claridge’s Malawi Antlers Tea £38

Claridge’s Afternoon Tea Milk Jug £295

Claridge’s Afternoon Tea Set for Two £475

Earl Grey Tea £20

Claridge’s Jam and Marmalade £12 each

Claridge’s Afternoon Tea Large Teapot £575

The Connaught Bar Shaker £125

Espresso Co ee Beans £18

Signature Set of Four Espresso Cups and Saucers £345

The Connaught Bar book £29.95

Claridge’s Old Fashioned Gift Set £115

Honeypot and Drizzler £145

Mayfair MAGIC

Housekeeping Teddy Bear with Case £50

FROM MORNING COFFEE TO COCKTAIL HOUR, BRING A TOUCH OF HOTEL LIVING HOME

After reluctantly checking out, you might miss the attentive care, peerless locations, beautiful buildings and renowned restaurants and bars that form part of a stay at a Maybourne hotel.

Fortunately, there are ways to take some of the experience with you; from the perfect morning co ee to afternoon tea served on iconic striped china, and bedtime teddies for our younger guests.

The Connaught Bar book enables mixologists to recreate some of Agostino Perrone’s most impressive drinks at home – use a Connaught Bar Shaker for added flair. Prefer to keep it simple? Then just serve your drinks in our hotels' tasteful signature glasswear.

These items are available from the Claridge's shop, or via the hotels' own online stores. shop.claridges.co.uk, shop.the-connaught.co.uk

Bar Champagne Flute £55

The Connaught Corkscrew £175

Claridge’s Matches £22 (Available from June)

Claridge’s x Summerill & Bishop tablecloth £355

Claridge’s

The Connaught Mugs (set of four) £100

Claridge’s

Claridge’s

Claridge’s

Claridge’s

Claridge’s

The Connaught Bar Martini Set £140

Red Room Single Red Dot Glass £100 (Available from May)

Guest List

HOLLYWOOD A- LISTERS AND POP MAESTROS ARE AMONG THE GUESTS ON OUR PARTY CIRCUIT, FROM LONDON TO LOS ANGELES

Christian Louboutin and Emma Thynn, Marchioness of Bath

Warner Music x Hennessy BRITs afterparty at Claridge’s

Charli xcx, Jack Whitehall, Christian Louboutin, Laura Whitmore, Lennon Gallagher and Cruz Beckham were among the stars who headed to Claridge’s after March’s Brit Awards at the O2 Arena. Party organisers transformed the ballroom in the mind-bending style of Queen’s ‘I’m Going Slightly Mad’ video, and music was provided by British-Ghanaian models-cum-designers the Flag Twins and Charli xcx’s collaborator A. G. Cook.

Jess Glynne and Alex Scott

Emma Thynn, Marchioness of Bath

Charli xcx

Lennon Gallagher and Isobel Richmond

Daniel Lismore

Bel Priestley

Jason Isaacs

Karlon Bonsu

Martin Compston and David Harewood

Laura Whitmore

Golden Globes luncheon at The Maybourne Beverly Hills

Ariana Grande, Pamela Anderson and Robbie Williams joined fellow award hopefuls Gabriel LaBelle, Mikey Madison and Kathryn Hahn at The Maybourne Beverly Hills for the Golden Globes’ inaugural luncheon honoring first-time nominees. The stars enjoyed a choice of roasted chicken breast, sea bass with miso glaze or cauliflower steak, plus arugula salad and devil’s food cake, as well as crystal jewellery by the sponsor, Swarovski.

Kim Cattrall and Alex Hassell

Sunday Times Style at Claridge’s Restaurant

Kim Cattrall and Rivals star Alex Hassell were joined at Claridge’s by Holly Willoughby, Bianca Jagger and London’s fashion elite – including Henry Holland, Sophie Dahl, Giles Deacon and Charlie Casely-Hayford – to celebrate thirty years of Sunday Times Style. The beautifully dressed guests enjoyed a three-course meal of Cornish crab, fillet of Herefordshire beef, and profiteroles, accompanied by Moët & Chandon.

Zoe Saldaña and Ariana Grande

Bianca Jagger

Holly Willoughby

Sophie Dahl

Clara Amfo

Gabriel LaBelle and Adam Brody

Ariana Grande, Robbie Williams and Freddy Wexler

Max Hurd and Henry

Pamela Anderson and Lykke Li

Daphne Guinness

Holland

Mikey Madison

Kathryn Hahn and Cooper Koch

Hotel Il Pellicano at Claridge’s

Tuscan sun shone on Mayfair when a team from Hotel Il Pellicano – the acclaimed Italian hotel on the Argentario coast – held a weeklong residency at Claridge’s. At the opening party, Pellicano CEO and creative director MarieLouise Sciò was joined by such London luminaries as designer Harris Reed, while Il Pellicano bar manager Federico Morosi, mixed martinis and negronis.

Wallpaper* x Rolex at The Emory Rooftop Bar

Watch-lovers and design mavens gathered at The Emory Rooftop Bar to toast the publication of Oyster Perpetual Submariner – The Watch That Unlocked The Deep: the first authorized book documenting the complete history of the Rolex Submariner. Written by author, historian, and watch authority, Nicholas Foulkes, the book is published by Wallpaper magazine. On the night, Foulkes was joined by a crowd of design-conscious guests, such as Wallpaper* editor-in-chief, Bill Prince.

International Women’s Day at

The Maybourne Beverly Hills

Designer Zoë de Givenchy hosted a celebration of International Women’s Day at The Maybourne Beverly Hills. The beautiful event also supported Steadfast LA, a nonprofit helping to rebuild Los Angeles after the recent wildfires.

Nicholas Foulkes

Harris Reed and friend

George Raju and Federico Morosi

Marie-Louise Brulatour Mills and David Downton

Gergei Erdei

Lloyd Lindo and Claudia Grove

Zoë de Givenchy and Molly Sims

Eilidh Hargreaves

Clym Evernden and Jack Guinness

Rose Chalalai Singh, Cathy Kasterine, and Marie Louise Sciò

and

The Rake x Cigar Merchants party at The Emory

On National Cigar Day, the Emory Cigar Merchants welcomed guests from The Rake to take in the sunset, enjoy one another’s company and light remarkable, limited-edition, 2007 Hoyo de Monterrey Regalos. The Rake’s editor Tom Chamberlin was joined by Cartier managing director Laurent Feniou, Havana Cigars master Max Foulkes and George Glasgow Jr., CEO and creative director of shoemaker George Cleverley.

Darroze and Angela Hartnett

Hélène Darroze’s Galette Des Rois party at The Connaught

The Connaught’s Hélène Darroze is a brilliant chef and a consummate host. At the beginning of the year, she welcomed London’s culinary community to her galette de rois party, marking Twelfth Night. Claude Bosi, Clare Smyth, Vivek Singh and Santiago Lastra enjoyed the food and good cheer.

Women In Business

at The Maybourne Riviera Fashion consultant Agata Krysiak and PR and communications professional Emma Reeve have hosted elite gatherings at The Maybourne Riviera. Each has brought together the region’s best-connected businesswomen, to discuss challenges and opportunities – and more – in an inspiring, oceanside setting. .

Emma Reeve and Agata Krysiak

Clare Smyth, Claude Bosi and Hélène

Hélène

Kazutoshi Endo

Hélène Darroze

Laurent Feniou, Max Foulkes and Shary Rahham

Hani Farsi and Tom Chamberlin

Roy Sommer, Joe Berg and Nico Folini

Farhad Heydari and Jason Broderick

Santiago Lastra and Jon Spiteri

Max Foulkes and Adam Rogers

IN THE

DAME ZANDRA RHODES

REFLECTS ON SITTING FOR DAVID DOWNTON, ARTIST IN RESIDENCE AT CLARIDGE’S

Photography by JACOBUS SNYMAN

Pink

Dame Zandra Lindsey Rhodes is a force of nature. Dressing everyone from Princess Diana to Diana Ross, Marc Bolan to Barbra Streisand, fashion’s grande dame has created dramatic designs for more than fty years and founded London’s Fashion and Textile Museum. Now in her eighties, the princess of punk shows no signs of slowing. In 2024, she crafted a collection for Spanish brand Celia B and published Iconic, a characteristically vibrant autobiography that chronicled her life in fty objects.

Dressed to impress with a bubblegum ’do, Rhodes thoroughly enjoyed sitting for David Downton: ‘The portrait took place on a sunny afternoon in July, after a morning of signings for my memoir. It’s always glamorous to walk into Claridge’s, especially as one of David’s models. I arrived in a statement piece that I hadn’t worn before: a gorgeous black dress with great big frill sleeves, featuring

a dramatic diagonal print that I’d made for Celia B. David always does lovely hands, so I also wore Andrew Logan bracelets and rings, as well as a favourite silver necklace that I bought in India. My hair was pink, and I had my usual makeup of turquoise eyeshadow with stripy brows.

‘David took me upstairs to the Octagon suite, which was gorgeous. We had sandwiches in the sunshine on the balcony, looking out over London. I had green tea; he had champagne. In such a luxurious space, I knew it was going to be a stylish drawing.

‘It was great fun posing. David has drawn me before – a great honour – so it was lovely that he asked again. He has a lovely aura and makes his subjects feel very glamorous. He brings out people’s best and most exotic aspects. His portraits make one look mysterious, while the age drops away – yet it’s not a lie, if that makes sense.

‘I delivered a dress to a client at Claridge’s and was having trouble with the door, until Albert Finney got up and carried my parcel in’

‘I just love the idea that the portrait will be part of the Claridge’s collection forever. I’m sure it doesn’t mean free dinners for life, sadly, but it’s great to be in it. After all, Claridge’s is one of the world’s chicest hotels. A very special place – and a delightful place to go for dinner. I went to a Jasper Conran show there once. Another time, I delivered a dress to a client – I was having trouble with the door, until the actor Albert Finney got up and carried my parcel in.

engagement dress, or a pleated kimono top I made for Freddie Mercury. When I look back on dressing Jackie Kennedy and Lauren Bacall, or Diana Vreeland raving about my clothes in Vogue, all the adventures I’ve been on, it’s quite amazing. It’s also an honour to meet people who still wear my clothes now and treasure them.

‘What would I dress David in? An exotic waistcoat, to make him look very elegant when he’s sitting drawing. He would look lovely in one of my satin prints; perhaps in muted colours, like a soft grey.’ Downton is equally enthusiastic: ‘Zandra brightens rooms –literally. She is utterly joyful. E ervescent. Unstoppable.’

To see David Downton’s drawing of Zandra Rhodes, visit the Talking Heads Gallery in Claridge’s. claridges.co.uk; daviddownton.com

‘I think my textiles are the biggest legacy I’ve given to the world; like the wonderful, embroidered seashell net on Princess Anne’s

Clockwise from above: Fables of the Sea collection, 1984; sketch for Princess Diana, 1985; Zandra in her Conceptual Chic collection, 1977

DAVID DOWNTON DRAWS

Dame Zandra Rhodes

Dame Zandra Rhodes is early for our sitting at Claridge’s. When I arrive, she is waiting in the lobby beneath a bower of summer flowers – tiny, but hard to miss with her fuchsia bob, Andrew Logan jewellery and signature clash and clang prints.

She has come directly from a book signing at The Oldie (her autobiography, Iconic, is hot o the press). ‘I thought I should make an e ort,’ she says, breezily.

How to draw this redoubtable renegade in black and white, when her life is a paean to colour? ‘You’ll be ne, darling,’ she reassures me, and so it proves.

We work outside on the terrace in the sunshine and, later, inside with tea and sandwiches — an easy-going afternoon in the orbit of a legend.

David Downton is artist-in-residence at Claridge’s. Visit his Talking Heads Gallery on the hotel’s ground floor. daviddownton.com