THE SEASON
ROYAL DRESSER
THIS PAGE: AMANDA HAS FOUND A NEW PASSION THROUGH PODCASTING. OPPOSITE: SHE HAS DESIGNED OUTFITS FOR PRINCESS DIANA AND PRINCESS CATHERINE
AMANDA WAKELEY
The fashion designer and presenter talks to Kate Freud about the joy of living by the river in London and her love of adventure
I was born in Chester Royal Infirmary and grew up on the outskirts of the city in a lovely rambling Georgian farmhouse, in a village called Mickle Trafford.
Growing up in a house with two older brothers it was a happy noisy, home! We had a goldfish, a naughty Welsh mountain pony called Tempo and three dogs. Our gorgeous white labrador Bodger arrived about the same time I did. I would take naps in his basket as a child and was devastated when we lost him at 13.
After I left home, I ended up living in the States for four years before moving to London in 1986 with my first husband. We bought a beautiful first-floor flat with high ceilings and great proportions on Stanhope Gardens in South Kensington. The reception room had French doors that overlooked the communal gardens, and there was a roof terrace where we’d sit in the evenings.
When my business first launched, I only did bespoke designs from my studio on Ifield Road, in Chelsea. It was a busy time, designing night and day and then I began dressing Princess Diana. She always had a clear idea of what she liked, so it was a brilliantly collaborative process. And of course she looked wonderful in everything. When I opened my first London store, I launched my ready-towear collection and have since dressed everyone from JLo to Beyoncé, and both the Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of
Sussex. It was thrilling to see people in your designs.
In 2021 I lost my dear brother, and my company went into administration. It was an incredibly difficult time but also an opportunity to pause and think about the future. I’d been on the hamster wheel with my business for 30 years and knew I didn’t want another brand, but I needed a purpose. Years earlier, I had an idea for a book, loosely called Discovering Your Style DNA which proved to be a brilliant concept for my now-podcast, StyleDNA. I love a challenge, and it has proved my real passion. I’m now writing the book too!
In terms of natural style, they don’t come much chicer than Yasmin Le Bon. I’ve known her for years as she walked my first catwalk show, but her style is effortless and she’s a generous and sweet friend too.
When it comes to my own style, I mostly shop online as I have a well-trained eye. I do a YouTube show called Friday Night Fashion with Jo Elvin where we cherry-pick pieces, so I see a lot of what’s on offer. But I also think the high street has never been better, and I love a wander
around Notting Hill or along London’s King’s Road. COS, James Perse and Joseph are favourites. I think women these days are thinking more sustainably, buying less but spending a little more on pieces you can wear more often.
My partner Hugh and I have lived in an apartment overlooking the Thames in Chelsea for ten years. I love living by the water, seeing the tide come in and out, the fresh air that comes with it. I watch the huge barges being manoeuvred with such precision; it’s transfixing to watch, like a beautiful ballet. Occasionally we see a seal bobbing along the river too.
“I BEGAN DRESSING PRINCESS DIANA. SHE ALWAYS HAD A CLEAR IDEA OF WHAT SHE LIKED, SO IT WAS A BRILLIANTLY COLLABORATIVE PROCESS”
My podcast is recorded at home, as I wanted the setting to feel informal and relaxed. I’m so delighted by how it has grown. I started off mostly interviewing friends, but have now had everyone from Elle Macpherson to Sophie Ellis-Bextor on the show.
I think a local pub is very important for the community. We have the Fox & Pheasant –James Blunt’s place – just a short walk away. It’s very relaxed and does wonderful food. We also love No. Fifty Cheyne on Cheyne Walk for simple food cooked on the grill, and for a night out it’s hard to beat La Loma in Oswald’s, Mayfair. During the day you’ll often find me in Chelsea Green, where I buy all my fruit and veg from Andreas’. I also can’t resist popping into Birley Bakery, the latest venture from restaurateur Robin Birley. Everything in there is delicious!
When we’re not in London my partner Hugh and I love travel and adventure. A couple of years ago we went on an extraordinary trip to Antarctica, skiing. We travelled out there on an expedition ship through the most breathtaking scenery. Each day we’d skin (climb) up the mountain with ropes and crampons and then ski down. We would see penguins popping up through the ice as we made our descent. Our next adventure is rebuilding an old sailing ship that we’ll moor just south of Barcelona. L Amanda’s podcast StyleDNA is available to listen to on Spotify
From formal …
slingback, £670, santonishoes.com
£650, beulahlondon.com
When it comes to Ascot attire, rules are rules. Despite personal stylist Daniel Johnson’s (danieljohnson.com) reservations about the ‘unavoidable’ and polarising trend of the wider-leg trouser, he finds clients are opting for the classic longer-cut suit jacket. He advises Ascot suppliers Favourbrook and Oliver Brown as go-tos. And the style faux pas to be wary of? The ill-fitting waistcoat.
£1,495, erdem.com
sofiatsereteli.com
Radiate your inner Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady at Ascot, advises stylist Aoife O’Doherty (aoifeodohertystylist.com). Looking to designers such as Beulah London, and Zimmerman, for suits Aoife says to match materials and suggests Safiyaa for “exquisite tailoring”. Complete the look with a wide brim or sculptural headpiece. “Play with textures and proportions and keep jewellery simple.”
Silk and linen doublebreasted waistcoast, £290, favourbrook.com
Leather
Silk polka-dot dress,
Caramel acetate sunglasses, £225, paulsmith.com
Bulldog walking cane, £1,385, dunhill.com
Sterling silver cufflinks, £300, georgjensen.com
Fur-felt top hat, £335, christys-hats.com
Leather Oxford shoes, £1,080, brioni.com
Herringbone wool morning coat, £720, favourbrook.com
Wool trousers, £1,150, brioni.com
Leather bag with gold-toned handle,
Silk and sinamay fl oral hat, £1,350, mervebayindir.com
Satin capelet dress, from £603,
PHOTO FINISH
CLOQUÉ SHIRT DRESS, £1,550
SUZANNAH LONDON
Enamel signet ring, £245, 886royalmint.com
Tuxedo jacket, £4,100, shop.brunellocucinelli.com
Twill trousers, £275, kitblake.com
Linen single-cuff shirt, £275, huntsmansavilerow.com
to fun
Embellished headband, £395, erdem.com SUITED AND BOOTED THOM SWEENEY SS25 THOMSWEENEY.COM
Tortoiseshell sunglasses, £135, jimmyfairly.com
The ever-reliable palette of neutrals and blues ace the Wimbledon look. Daniel Johnson encourages us to keep it simple, and to definitely wear a tie in the Royal box. And the resurgence of Alfred Dunhill shouldn’t be overlooked. “If I was a gambling man (and I’m not) I’d very much say that Dunhill should (and likely could) be the next brand to dress James Bond – you heard it here first!”
Silk pocket square, £50, bensonandclegg.com
Smart casual, but well put together, is how Aoife O’Doherty defines SW19 style. Factoring in the weather, early planning is a must. “Suits, jumpsuits, midi dresses accessorised with a sun hat are often popular,” she finds. Opt for French brands Maje and Sandro for a timelessness. If unsure, Aoife suggests a white broderie anglaise style dress or matching shirt and trousers. Now pass the Pimm’s!
Titanium-frame sunglasses, £607, shop.brunellocucinelli.com
“For Ascot, I’d tell a gent to go for a sharp morning suit. Weddings, though? That’s where you can have some fun. I love our dusty-pink linen suit from the new collection – it’s light, drapes beautifully, and has an effortless charm.” Oliver Spencer, Favourbrook
18kt gold earrings, £6,545, nadaghazal.com
Double-breasted blazer, £2,195, erdem.com
Linen trousers, £225, annajamesthelabel.com
Bespoke woven cornhusk clutch, £350, anyahindmarch.com
BRIGHTER DAYS
JAMIE BLAZER, £390
TYLER TROUSER, £290 CEFINN.
GARDEN CHARM
Transform your outdoor space with Haddonstone’s timeless cast stonework
Living in the capital often means limited fresh air and space, making a thoughtfully designed outdoor area essential. A garden or courtyard becomes a sanctuary – a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the changing seasons. With Haddonstone’s extensive range of handcrafted cast-stone designs, you can transform any outdoor space, no matter its size or style.
PLANTED WITH PURPOSE
To add year-round interest and to create vibrant displays, cast-stone planters are an excellent addition to any outdoor space. Haddonstone offers a wide range of handcrafted, madeto-order designs that suit everything from traditional to contemporary gardens.
“Our planters and water features are designed to be both beautiful and durable, ensuring they remain striking focal points for years to come,” says Will Haxby, Haddonstone’s Home & Garden sales director. With a variety of designs, from ornate to minimalist, you’re sure to find the perfect garden planters.
GENTLY DOES IT
Watching and listening to the gentle flow of water encourages relaxation – just one of the many reasons to add a water feature to your outdoor space. Fountains are especially ideal for city-dwellers, as they help block out noise while bringing your garden to life by attracting pollinators and butterflies.
ADD CHARACTER
To add a touch of personality, consider incorporating decorative accents such as statuary, bird baths, sundials, or wall plaques. These features create visual interest and help to define your outdoor space. A classical statue nestled among lush greenery or a charming bird bath placed near a seating area invites both conversation and wildlife.
“It’s the thoughtful details that truly bring a garden to life,” Haxby notes. “Our collection of home and garden designs allows you to personalise your space while adding a sense of timeless beauty.”
So, whether you’re updating a large townhouse garden or a cosy city courtyard, Haddonstone’s cast stonework elevates your outdoor environment. Discover the collection today L
For expert advice or to start your garden design journey with Haddonstone , email info@haddonstone.co.uk or call 01604 770711
GARDEN ANTIQUES
JUNGLE ROOMS
OUTDOOR
JUNGLE LOOK THE
THIS SPRING, SEEK INSPIRATION FROM TWISTING BRANCHES AND CASCADING LEAVES WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF INDOOR ‘PLANTSCAPING’, WRITES TALLULAH RUSHAYA
Our love of houseplants has evolved from the humble pot on the windowsill to a new level of verdant vibrancy. Pass a home on a London residential street and you may glimpse a riot of tropical leafy green within, emerging from giant pots, hanging from ceilings or pouring off mantelpieces. It’s a labour of love and patience, but indoor plants repay the favour. Not only are they an unparalleled source of beauty, but they offer health advantages essential in city life, from purifying air to reducing stress.
MIXED LEAVES
Matchmaking plants to homes, The Plant Parlour founder Gemma Haigh (theplantparlour.co.uk) is an interior landscaper and RHS Chelsea silver gilt recipient. Working with mainly London clients, she finds facing direction is a determining factor for plant selection. For a client in a Holland Park townhouse who imagined having an abundance of cacti and succulents, Gemma had to measure expectations. “South-facing windows are best for succulents and cacti,” she says. “North and west-facing are more suitable to tropical houseplants to avoid leaf scorching. East-facing provides plenty of sun in the mornings, so plants should be placed a metre or so back during periods of direct light.”
Gemma is an advocate for using features within the home as “jungle gyms”. In her own home she has used a mirror with a trained rhaphidophora tetrasperma around a bamboo frame. Offering detailed aftercare to clients, Gemma recommends the low-maintenance snake plant or a maranta (or prayer plant), which can survive in a range of conditions. Bathrooms and kitchens lend themselves
well to achieve the jungle look, adds Abbi Dixon, founder of Botanic (botanicyork.co.uk). As rooms that receive the most humidity, plants can really thrive. It’s for this reason that nature lovers Nicola and Chris Cox, founders of Cox London (coxlondon.com), hung ferns from their ceiling, fragrancing the room with a woody note.
Within the world of plants, there are certified staples such as the a loe vera plant, fiddle leaf fig, and the Swiss cheese (monstera deliciosa) plant. Abbi Dixon, founder of Botanic (botanicyork.co.uk), suggest s searching for the underdogs, begonia maculata and staghorn ferns ( platycerium). The former is usually overlooked in favour of the pinstriped calathea, while the sculptural staghorn can be wall-mountained on a plank of wood. However, the most important advice Abbi tells her clients is to learn where plants come from, so as to emulate the closest conditions.
While some call it the ‘jungle look’, Dom Butler founder of Plant Drop ( plantdrop.co.uk) calls it “plantscaping”. Plants can clean air and g rouping them together forms “a microclimate in which they support each other”, says Dom.
BEDDING IN
How plants are showcased, whether on walls or floors, adds to the joy of the home. Interior designer Cinzia Moretti (morettiinteriordesign. com) always looks for opportunities to “transform overlooked spaces into something extraordinary”. This is seen spectacularly in
LUSH NOW Left: Designed by Buchanan Studio, with industrial features, natural textures and antiques, the triple-height sitting room of Maison Colbert invites in plentiful natural light, ideal for nurturing the rich microclimate of plantlife woven through the eclectic space
a project featuring a living wall of moss. “The client had a specific request – the door at the end of the staircase, adjacent to the kitchen opening, was not to be visible as a traditional door,” Cinzia explains. In another project, she filled the void underneath a staircase, with a winter garden, enclosed in glass.
Taking a playful approach, artists Philip and Charlotte Colbert’s Maison Colbert (maisoncolbert.com), designed by Buchanan Studio, is a botanical gem. The indoor-garden feel is elevated by a weeping fig ( ficus benjamina), pencil tree (euphorbia tirucalli ) and calathea
Interior designer Kate Guinness installed string shelves for self-suckering plants in a recent cafe project, giving a homely ambience. “You’ll need to have quite a few plants at different scales, so make sure you have enough space and surfaces for them to sit on or in,” she advises (kateguinness.co.uk).
WALLED GARDENS
Brands have taken great strides in creating safe paints. Non-toxic Earthborn paints (earthbornpaints.co.uk) come in 70 shades
To complement plants, colour expert Bailey Williams suggests green horizontal blocks using Cricket, mimicking sun shining through foliage, elegant Secret Room to add richness, and buttery Crocky Road to unify the shades. Certain colours make plants pop. “We have a lot of carnivorous plants that have bold green and red foliage,” says Paula Taylor, Graham & Brown’s head stylist and trend specialist ( grahambrown.com). Paula suggests Spiced Mulberry or Thistle shades To make plants shine, reds are best. “Dark-blue or teal walls add a cool backdrop to tropical palms and rubber plants, wh ile bright-yellow walls will contrast the deep green of yucca and monstera”. L
VILLAGE LONDON
SLOANE SQUARE
BURSTING INTO BLOOM IN MAY WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW, THIS VIBRANT ENCLAVE CONTINUES TO FLOURISH, COMBINING TRADITIONAL CHARM AND GLAMOROUS SHOPPING
Sloane Square is the gateway to Chelsea. It jettisons you into the fashion and cultural delights of the King’s Road, Duke of York Square, the stylishly curated Pavilion Road and some of the prettiest residential streets in the capital.
In May, though, it’s all about the Flower Show, with local shops competing with fabulous floral decorations for Chelsea in Bloom. “You step out of the tube at Sloane Square and there's always a buzz, especially when the Flower Show’s on,” says Roly Ingleby-MacKenzie, head of Knightsbridge sales at Knight Frank.
Upgrades to the area’s shops have raised the bar. “Arguably the best part is Pavilion Road which is tucked away just o the main thoroughfare,” says Toby Anderdon, director, Savills Sloane Street o ce. ”This pedestrianised, buzzy mews, is home to artisan restaurants, independent cafes, and high-end boutiques.”
with Whole Foods having just signed a 15-year lease.
In terms of property, “a home in Chelsea is part of a longterm ambition for many,” says Green. You may catch a glimpse of Eric Clapton or Mick Jagger in this charming village where global residents come to feel part of something very local.
“Chelsea was built through di erent eras, and wasn’t always as wealthy as it is today, so we routinely sell houses from 700 to 7,000 sq ft, keeping the community diverse and interesting,” says Green. Elegant redbrick mansion apartments, charming mews houses and garden square townhouses appeal to young couples, City professionals, and families.
“You step out of the tube and there's always a buzz, especially when the Flower Show is on”
Robert Green, head of sales at John D Wood & Co highlights recent updates to Chelsea Green, “a ten-minute stroll from Sloane Square, which has a more relaxed and local vibe”. The King's Road meanwhile thrums with retail activity,
The majority of properties are houses, rather than flats, meaning people live here full-time, which gives Chelsea Village a strong sense of community. “The archetypal Chelsea houses along the streets which run perpendicular to King’s Road are a perennial favourite, with those on garden squares like Markham and Carlyle especially desirable,” says Green. “Currently, with many embracing lateral living, larger flats are very popular. If you can fi nd one that has been recently modernised, jump on it before someone else does!”