Tempus Magazine | Issue 92 | Usain Bolt

TIMELESS INSPIRATION

USAIN BOLT

The world’s fastest man on his legacy, future champions, and Hublot BEYOND THE FINISH LINE

SPECTACULAR SUPERCARS | GORDON RAMSAY | SKINCARE SECRETS

Don't think limits

“Anything is possible, don’t think limits”. This is the mantra that the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, has lived by ever since he exploded onto the athletics scene and single-handedly – or, rather, footedly –transformed the way we view sprinting on the world stage.

“My father always told me that if you want something you have to work hard for it,” Usain told us, when we asked the inspiration behind his personal motto. “I came from humble beginnings in rural Jamaica yet through hard work and dedication I became a sporting legend and the world’s fastest man. My story can inspire others to work hard and follow your dreams.”

Indeed, today, the Hublot ambassador (who chats his latest collaboration with the watch brand on page 46) shares his motto with a new generation through his mentorship and ambassadorial work – from schoolchildren in his native rural Jamaica who he supports through his Usain Bolt Foundation, to the young athletes who aspire to one day match or even beat his records.

As we curated this new issue of Tempus, I was struck by just how many success stories from individuals and brands across different sectors use some form of this same mantra to manifest their profound success. Whether that was superstar chef Gordon Ramsay celebrating the

opening of his 100th restaurant (16) to the luxury car marques launching their fastest, sleekest, most powerful supercars (40), or retail queen Mary Portas emphasising the power that a culture shift towards kindness could have on the global economy (84) and Nieve Tierney teaching how each of us can manifest a more authentic, empowered self through our wardrobe on page 68, this issue’s stars are refusing to accept the status quo and, instead, striving for more.

It’s an inspiring thought – whether we apply it to improving our personal wellbeing or, through our work and ambitions, contribute to larger paradigm shifts in our societies or sectors: that we could smash our personal bests, break down our perceived boundaries and, with enough hard work and dedication, achieve more than we imagined.

As we travel through this issue packed with creativity – including colourful design from Kit Kemp (76), wildlife adventures (58), the strategic power of backgammon (88) and the three-step routine to transform any skin type (90) – we hope you are also inspired to enjoy all that is possible and beyond.

Enjoy the issue,

Michelle Johnson Editor-in-chief Tempus

This issue’s stars are refusing to accept the status quo and, instead, striving for more

Share your thoughts by contacting us via email at info@tempusmagazine.co.uk, or visit tempusmagazine.co.uk for your daily update from the world of luxury lifestyle

Contributors

Rikesh Chauhan

Tempus style columnist Rikesh presents his most controversial fashion must-haves yet as he examines his favourite loafer-sneaker hybrids on page 112.

Lysanne Currie

Journalist and editor Lysanne meets Mary Portas and discovers a kinder culture shift on page 84, before sitting down for a game of backgammon to find out why this ancient boardgame is back in the boardroom (88).

Michael Shelford

Photographer Michael joins us at Kensington’s The Milestone Hotel & Residences for a photoshoot to introduce our latest launch and collaboration with Tempus head of luxury Kate Kerr (22).

Rory FH Smith

Automotive expert Rory puts his vintage knowledge to the test in Monaco, as the most beautiful classic car race in the world – the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique –returns to Monte-Carlo (34)

Editorial team

Editor-in-chief

Michelle Johnson michelle@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Creative Director

Ross Forbes ross@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Digital Editor

Shivani Dubey shivani@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Contributors

Judith Baker, Rikesh Chauhan, Tessa Crowley, Lysanne Currie, Ella Griffin, Aobh O’Brien-Moody, Rory FH Smith, Susan Springate, Alexandra Wilby

Chief Sub-Editor

Dominique Dinse

Designer Emma Howcutt-Kelly

COMMERCIAL

Head of Partnerships

Dan Scudder

dan@tempusmagazine.co.uk

+44 (0) 203 519 1005

Head of Luxury

Kate Kerr

kate@tempusmagazine.co.uk

+44 (0) 7973 248 623

VANTAGE MEDIA

Managing Director

Peter Malmstrom

COVER IMAGE

Hublot ambassador Usain Bolt wears the Hublot Big Bang Reloaded Usain Bolt. Photo courtesy ©Hublot Article on page: 46

@tempusmagazine

@tempusmagazine

Tempus Magazine

12 The Luxe List Our essential guide to this season’s finest gifts and most exciting new launches

16 Recipe for Success Superstar chef Gordon Ramsay celebrates the launch of his 100th restaurant

18 Chefs in residence How culinary collaborations and pop-up fine dining took London by storm

20 Best of the best Kate Kerr launches a new collaboration bringing Tempus readers exclusive London stays

28 Rosé refined Celebrate summer with the rise and rise of fine rosé wine

34 Driving history Tempus heads to Monaco for the world’s most beautiful classic car street race

40 Back on track These spectacular supercar launches are inspired by the track

46 Keeping time Usain Bolt looks back at his unbeaten legacy and shares his plans for the future in an exclusive interview

54 Caribbean conscience Discover Dominica’s plans to become the world’s leading eco-tourism destination

58 Animal magnetism The wildlife-focused adventures getting us up close and personal with nature

68 Fashion alchemy Nieve Tierney on how our wardrobe choices can maximise our impact

70 Picture perfect The London galleries bringing us a summer of spectacular art

76 World in colour Hotel designer Kit Kemp MBE looks back on a career of creating joyful spaces

80 Moments in time Tempus looks back at the highlights of this year’s Watches & Wonders Geneva

84 Feminine rising Queen of Shops Mary Portas on building a kinder future for big business

88 Roll with it How the 5,000-year-old game of backgammon is sweeping the boardroom

90 Skincare secrets Dr David Jack shares his science-backed new treatments and his tips for happy, healthy skin

92 Skin science The pioneering skincare products, treatments and supplements putting science centrestage

103 RE:VIEW Turn up the heat with Nela restaurant, plus our pick of the best events and festivals of the summer

108 Save the date The finest events of the season

112 Loafing around Rikesh Chauhan introduces what might just be the most controversial footwear of the season

The LUXE LIST

Our essential guide to the most exciting new launches and finest seasonal gifts

2

Pentagoni by Pomellato

Pomellato’s latest high jewellery creation is the Pentagoni collection, inspired by geometry. Brought to life in luminous rose gold the pentagon forms shift in scale and angle to create a kinetic play of light where they meet with pavé white and brown diamonds. A trio of bold Pentagoni rings, perfect for stacking or wearing solo, are full of contrast and depth, as the irregular pavé catches light from unexpected angles. Pendant earrings continue the aesthetic with suspended pentagon motifs that sway with every gesture. The centrepiece of the collection is the necklace: a cascading architecture of pentagons with alternating polished facets and diamond pavé planes that create a three-dimensional rhythm. Balancing volume with ease, this is geometry that moves with the body.

pomellato.com

1Roger Dubuis Excalibur Brocéliande

Inspired by the legendary Brocéliande – the enchanted forest of Arthurian legend – the 38mm Roger Dubuis Excalibur Brocéliande comes in two magical expressions representing dawn and dusk, both powered by the new in-house calibre RD721SQ. Poinçon de Genève certified, the automatic skeletonised movement is adorned with gold ivy vines and mother-of-pearl leaves embellishing the clear sapphire dial. The Twilight Blue model (left) features finely cut, handpolished mother-of-pearl leaves, while the yellow gold Dawn Rose glows with yellow, pink and red varnished mother-of-pearl, surrounded by a bezel glittering with brilliant-cut diamonds. At the heart of the forest, both models feature skeletonised hour markers and hands in gold with a luminescent coating, while freely rotating sapphire discs add further drama and intrigue to this enchanting timepiece. Discover more from Roger Dubuis on page 82.

rogerdubuis.com

3

The Diageo Rare Series

The new Diageo Rare Series is a collection sure to be on the radar of any whisky connoisseur. A striking new collection of single malts (left) poised to redefine whisky rarity and provenance, the collection pays homage to Scotland’s rich whisky tradition. It spans the breadth of Scotland’s whisky regions, from the Highland heartlands and the wild northern coast to the shores of Islay and the Isle of Skye. The centrepiece of this series is the Glenury Royal 1970 Rare Series, a 55-year-old jewel from the legendary ghost distillery. Other whiskies in the series’ first launch include the Talisker 1992 Rare Series, Caol Ila 1983 Rare Series, the Clynelish 1983 Rare Series and the Blair Athol 1991 Rare Series. Slàinte mhath.

justerinis.com

4Lalique Tales of Light Collection

The new Lalique Tales of Light home fragrance collection is designed as a luminous tribute to the life and legacy of the maison’s founder, René Lalique, each scent in the collection is inspired by a place that marked his journey, creating a landscape of memories, creativity and emotion. From the calm of nature to the hustle and bustle of Paris, each scent is meant to evoke a memory. From La Comédie, inspired by the gilded theatres, velvet seats, and the scent of makeup powder to L’Escapade, which is nature captured in light, there is a scent for every occasion and cherished memory produced in a range of candles, diffusers and more. Scent-sational. »

uk.lalique.com

5

Cookson Adventures Nordic Air Safari

Cookson Adventures has unveiled a 19-day Nordic air safari (left), specially designed for those seeking to reconnect with the wild and to escape the Mediterranean heat this summer. Travelling by privately chartered PC-12 turboprop aircraft, guests will journey between six exclusive-use private islands, historic coastal outposts and wilderness camps across Sweden, Finland and Norway. A dedicated private pilot will be able to land at more remote airstrips, getting straight into the core of the region’s cultural and natural heartlands. This adventure embraces the Nordic spirit of a slower, more meaningful way to travel, while also delivering something that road travel rarely does: a rare vantage point over some of these countries most striking landscapes. With prices starting at £595,000 for a private group of eight guests, Cookson’s latest adventure puts guests on the fast track to slow travel.

cooksonadventures.com

6

Dr David Jack Blue Face Peel

Bring clinic-quality skincare home with the Blue Face Peel by Dr David Jack (right). The advanced hydrating balancing mask soothes, repairs and hydrates even the most sensitive skin. Formulated with an essential blend of hard-working actives including hyaluronic acid (for deep hydration, firming and repair), azelaic acid (an anti-inflammatory that reduces redness and flare-ups), Niacinamide (skin barrier, UV and blue light protection) and vitamin B5, it is designed to repair, restore and revive your skin. Our editor-in-chief’s pick for home skincare, use weekly (or the night before an event) for gamechanging skincare that will leave you feeling anything but blue. Discover more skincare on page 90.

drdavidjack.com

7

The Big Green Egg

Nothing beats a good barbecue on a hot summer’s day, and the Big Green Egg (left) has been the must-have accessory for outdoor cooking since 1974. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a family dinner, the Big Green Egg is compact, durable and easy to operate. Trusted by fine dining chefs including Tom Booton, formerly of the Dorchester, it is endlessly versatile, and its speed and efficiency mean it’s perfectly suited to impromptu, fuss-free dinners as well as more complicated meals. More than a grill, it is also great for roasting and baking, with eight different cooking modes to allow for pan cooking, low and slow, smoking and more. Guests will be green with envy.

biggreenegg.co.uk

OOONO Co-Driver No2

A missed sign. A hazard around the bend. A car braking hard up ahead. Driving brings you 100 small surprises a day. Whether you’re embarking on a European driving tour in a prized supercar or navigating the daily commute, the OOONO Co-Driver No2 (right) is the ultimate companion for the road ahead. Providing real-time alerts for speed cameras and road hazards across more than 80 countries, this discreet device helps drivers stay informed without distracting from the joy of driving. Compact, wireless and effortlessly simple to use, it blends seamlessly into any cockpit, from grand tourer to hypercar – so there’s nothing standing between you and the joy of the open road.

ooono.com/en-uk

Defender OCTA

The Defender OCTA (left) is the most dynamically accomplished Defender ever created, with unrivalled breadth of capability and performance on and off road. Its name is inspired by the octahedral shape of a rough diamond, the eightfaced geometry of the hardest and most desirable mineral on earth. Like a diamond, Defender OCTA embodies a rare fusion of extreme toughness and refined luxury. New ‘Body and Soul Seat’ technology elevates the passenger experience, delivering a truly immersive sensation that reflects the pinnacle of specification in the stunning, award winning model. Truly a jewel in the marque’s crown.

landrover.co.uk

Cocoon Hotel Sendlinger Tor, Munich

More than a hotel, Cocoon stands for diversity, naturalness and warmth. A place where the hustle and bustle of the city fades away – step inside, breathe deeply and dive back into Munich’s vibrant atmosphere the next morning. Located between the Old Town, the Glockenbach district, and the Isar River, Cocoon München Sendlinger Tor is firmly rooted in city life. Behind the building lies a stunning garden that offers a peaceful contrast to the surrounding area in the summer, creating a rare open space right in the heart of downtown. Perched above the rooftops of Munich, FreiSchwimmer bar at the hotel reimagines the nostalgia of a carefree German summer. Inspired by the playful atmosphere of traditional Freibäder (outdoor pools), the rooftop bar combines swings, vibrant colours and unconventional design with panoramic views stretching towards the Alps. Gute Reise!

cocoon-hotels.com

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Chef Gordon Ramsay celebrates the launch of his 100th restaurant at London’s 22 Bishopsgate

Words: Shivani Dubey

Gordon Ramsay is one of the most prolific and well-known chefs in the modern world. A bona fide celebrity chef as comfortable on our television screens as he is in the kitchen, Gordon has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the culinary world. Now, he is celebrating a truly landmark moment as he opens his 100th restaurant. Bread Street Kitchen & Bar, at 22 Bishopsgate in London, opened with a glittering launch party in May, where Tempus was on hand to speak to the international chef and sample the menu.

“It’s been a long and hard journey to get to this moment,” Gordon told us. “There were times when it felt almost impossible, so to be here today and celebrate with everyone is incredible. It’s a dream come true.”

The 59-year-old began his career aged 19 apprenticing as a line chef at Marco Pierre White at legendary South London restaurant Harvey’s. Gordon has described the star chef as the best mentor he ever had – but also the most demanding. Eager to study more French cuisine, Gordon worked with Albert Roux at Le Gavroche before moving to Paris aged 23 to work with luminaries Guy Savoy and Joël Robuchon. His star now rising quickly, back in London Gordon became head chef of Chelsea’s Aubergine in 1993, the restaurant quickly earning two Michelin stars under his leadership. 1998 saw Gordon stepping out on his own to open his first Restaurant Gordon Ramsay – by 2001 the Chelsea landmark would have three Michelin stars.

Fame came calling in 1999 with the TV documentary series Boiling Point, which

introduced the world to Gordon’s dynamic television persona. From there, he became a household name with a run of gastronomic hits including Hell’s Kitchen and Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares. Most recently, he appeared in the Netflix documentary Being Gordon Ramsay, which chronicles his career to present day.

He has been awarded 17 Michelin stars throughout his career, of which he currently holds eight, and his contributions to the hospitality industry earned him an OBE from Queen Elizabeth II in 2006.

It was a somewhat introspective mindset we were met with when Gordon greeted guests at the Bread Street Kitchen & Bar launch. The chef delivered a heartfelt speech about the importance of this landmark opening and spoke about how “a quintessential full English breakfast” was the best way to celebrate this occasion.

“This is quite a milestone for me, and I couldn’t think of anything better to kick [the 100th restaurant celebrations] off,” he said.

The 61-floor, 278m-high 22 Bishopsgate is also home to Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay High, with this latest opening completing the trio of projects finding a home in one of London’s tallest buildings. It holds special meaning for the celebrity chef, who describes London as “where [his] journey began”.

“I’ve been lucky enough to open restaurants all over the world, but there’s something truly unique about London. It’s where my journey began, and it’s the city I’m proud to call home.

“Watching it evolve into a global culinary

powerhouse has been remarkable,” he said previously, at the launch of Lucky Cat. “Building this beautiful space has been an ambitious project, but that’s exactly what makes Gordon Ramsay Restaurants so special – we never stop pushing boundaries.”

“I couldn’t be more excited to open three of our most iconic restaurants, all reimagined, taken to new heights, and built under one roof. A place where anyone can come and level up their skills in the kitchen – it’s unbelievable. It’s about creating something extraordinary for those who share our passion for great food and this incredible city,” he added.

The menu at Bread Street Kitchen & Bar features more than 35 dishes, making it the most elevated iteration of this restaurant yet. From lobster benedict and hot cakes at breakfast to Galician T-bone steak, Australian Wagyu Tomahawk steak (above) and Meyer lemon cheesecake during lunch and dinner, the restaurant is designed for guests to enjoy any meal of their day. The full English is, of course, a highlight, as are the bar snacks that are available at the dedicated sports bar built into the venue, where guests can watch live sport from around the world at any time.

With this 100th restaurant, Gordon Ramsay has cemented himself as a culinary titan by not only creating a space for patrons to enjoy Michelin-quality meals, but also a place high above the city where people can foster community over truly elevated dining.

gordonramsayrestaurants.com

CHEFS IN RESIDENCE

How culinary collaborations and pop-up fine dining

conquered the restaurant scene

Words: Aobh O’Brien-Moody

On a drizzly Tuesday night in central London, the streets are practically deserted as rain lashes down and the wind whips wildly. I momentarily doubt my decision to haul myself across town, but I’m soon rewarded for my plight. Shaking out my umbrella, I enter through a heavy velvet curtain and am led to a minimalist, moodily lit dining room, where the low hum of chatter fuses with the hunger-inducing hiss of an open fire and a heady scent of smoke fills the air.

I am at Carousel on Charlotte Street for the first service of Derya Esdevlet’s guest chef residency. Derya helms Lokanta, a Tokyobased culinary project blending the centuriesold tradition of Anatolian fire-cooking with the elegance and precision of Japanese cuisine. For two weeks, he and his team have taken over the Carousel kitchen, serving a one-off menu of innovative dishes such as fried mussel dolma with tarama, and braised teriyaki lamb shank with toasted zahter bread and raw shiso. Then, they’ll pack up and move

on, Carousel will welcome another guest chef, and the cycle will repeat.

It’s a model that Carousel has championed since brothers Ed and Ollie Templeton first threw open their doors in 2013, “on a bit of a wing and a prayer and a shoestring budget,” says Ed.

The restaurant has hosted more than 350 guest chefs from around the world, serving as a launchpad for notable names including Santiago Lastra, Jeremy Chan and Ravinder Bhogal, who now all run their own successful restaurants.

It began as a series of pop-ups: “From the get-go, we didn’t really go into it thinking we’re opening a restaurant,” says Ed. We went in from the pop-up world where it was more this idea of becoming a permanent pop-up. And then, over time, that evolved into something a bit more complete and considered – and, lo and behold, it was a restaurant and had very much its own identity.”

When Carousel opened, the restaurant residency was a niche concept in London. Now, it’s a movement that’s sweeping the city.

“The landscape has changed a lot,” says Ed. “You see that with a lot of places – like, you guys didn’t used to do residencies, but now you do.”

From exclusive one-night only affairs to seasonal takeovers, cultural crossovers to Michelin-starred mashups, the culinary collaboration of 2026 comes in various guises –and hasn’t left a corner of the capital unturned. This spring alone, Michelin-starred restaurant Akoko teamed up with burger joint Heard for a limited-edition West African menu; Rambutan welcomed guest chefs from Bao, Quality Wines, Camille and more to celebrate Sri Lankan New Year; NIJŪ’s Chris Golding joined forces with Adriana Cavita of Cavita to create an exclusive Japanese-Mexican tasting menu; and the restaurant residency of 2025, which saw legendary Manhattan restaurant Dante set up shop in the quintessentially British hotel Claridge’s, was extended long beyond its initial cut-off date into May – and will now become a permanent fixture. »

COOKING UP CULTURE

The trend has also spread beyond the confines of the capital. Merlin Labron-Johnson, head chef at Michelin-starred Osip in Somerset, welcomed four different Japanese chefs into the restaurant’s kitchen over the course of last year and has more collaborations planned for the second half of 2026, including with Michelin- and Green-starred French Le Doyenné and Cartagena-based Celele. He perceives the boom in restaurant residencies as proof of a growing appetite for novelty and originality among diners.

“Collaborations give our community access to chefs they might not otherwise be able to experience easily,” says Merlin. “Guests feel like they’ve experienced something genuinely unique – not just a one-off menu, but an evening where different ideas, cultures and styles come together.”

It’s not only diners who benefit from culinary collaborations. Chefs enjoy the break from routine and renewed inspiration. “[Collaborations] keep things fresh and push everyone out of their comfort zone,” says Merlin. “I think there’s a strong desire among chefs to keep learning, exploring and sharing knowledge, and collaborations allow that to happen in a very tangible way.”

Ed compares this new generation of guest chefs to touring musicians. “They’re more like bands or DJs than chefs who are chained to their kitchen underground somewhere for a decade at a time,” he says. “Even when we were starting out 12 years ago, people were less disposed to travelling with their work, or maybe they were a little more guarded about the idea of opening up the kitchen to somebody else. It was just not really something they’d consider. Whereas now, I think in a really positive way, the industry’s changed a lot. People are a lot more openminded. People are a lot more up for doing fun stuff.”

You don’t have to look far to grasp what Ed is getting at. Just down the street from Carousel, Diana Militski, founder of Georgian fusion restaurant Kinkally and its subterranean speakeasy Bar Kinky, is on a mission to “bring a spark to London nightlife”, which she muses, is, “not as fun as it used to be”. Her solution is a pop-up series called Six Handshakes, which hosts bars from around the world, among them legendary Singapore bar Nutmeg & Clove , Dead Poets from Hong Kong, The Bellwood from Tokyo and Kiki Lounge from Isle of Man, for fully-immersive one-night-only pop-ups, in which Bar Kinky is transformed into a replica of the visiting bar – right down to the wallpaper.

“We immerse the guest, we change our bar –literally: the floor, the ceiling, the lamps, the walls, the wallpaper. We review each and every bar design very accurately, usually a month in advance,” says Diana. “We start thinking, ‘Okay, what elements do we bring? What colour is the floor? What material is the counter? What’s the logo by the entrance?’ So, from step one, guests feel like they’re entering a bar in Tokyo, for instance.”

It’s an ambitious undertaking that’s not without the occasional quandary – a particularly memorable one for Diana was attempting to recreate The Bellwood’s stained-glass name panel – but ultimately, the challenges are worth it for the sense of community these nights foster.

“The whole idea was a kind of unification –bringing the world into one place,” says Diana. After all, the name Six Handshakes is based on the theory that any two people are connected by a chain of six or fewer relationships. By bringing far-flung individuals, ideas and ingredients into one small space, collaborations can gently collapse distance, drawing us all a little closer.

carousel-london.com; osiprestaurant.com heardburger.co.uk; kinkally.co.uk; maybourne.com

GUESTS FEEL LIKE THEY’VE EXPERIENCED SOMETHING GENUINELY UNIQUE – NOT JUST A ONEOFF MENU, BUT AN EVENING WHERE DIFFERENT IDEAS, CULTURES AND STYLES COME TOGETHER

— Merlin Labron-Johnson, Osip

Cooking up a storm: Carousel’s (above left) regular pop ups include collaboration with international chefs including Yoji Tokuyoshi (previous).

Above: Heard chef Jordan Bailey and Michelin-star Akoko founder Aji

introduce their limited-edition burger menu (©India WhileyMorton). Left: Osip head chef Merlin Labron-Johnson welcomes regular guest collaborations

Akokomi

“

TBest of the best

As Tempus’s new head of luxury Kate Kerr launches our hospitality collaboration – offering exclusive access to the finest residences and hotel stays in London and beyond – she joins Michelle Johnson in conversation to reveal all about her exciting role, and share the extra spark that makes five-star even finer

Photography: Michael Shelford | Location: The Milestone Hotel & Residences

here are hotels, and then there are hotels,” says Kate Kerr (pictured), Tempus’s new head of luxury and an expert liaison between her global highnet-worth clients and a handpicked roster of five-star hotels and residences that take luxury to truly extraordinary heights. Kate has been connecting luxury travellers with remarkable accommodation for more than two decades and will now bring her wealth of expertise and experience to Tempus in an exciting new collaboration.

Not only will Tempus readers be able to book exclusive accommodation with Kate, but the luxury and travel expert will be sharing her insights in a regular column, putting the spotlight on incredible service, hospitality’s unique individuals, and her favourite occasion destinations.

“I’m so excited to work with Tempus on this new collaboration,” says Kate, who began

her career as a personal assistant to Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber before moving into luxury property sales and serviced apartment management. Kate was one of the first to offer serviced apartment booking online – a venture that evolved into her current role.

“I’ve been providing my clients with luxury serviced apartments and hotels for almost 30 years, acting as a liaison and concierge, so I’m really excited to introduce Tempus readers to the most fantastic stays in London and beyond.”

To celebrate the launch, we visited one of Kate’s favourite London landmarks, The Milestone Hotel & Residences. Part of the Red Carnation Hotel Group, The Milestone is situated directly opposite Kensington Palace with picturesque views across the palace gardens. Each room, suite and residence is individually designed, from the Noël Coward Suite with original art deco pieces, to the incredible Hermès Suite with its custom-built

furnishings and double balconies. The hotel’s gastronomic credentials include fine dining at Cheneston’s restaurant (named after the early spelling of Kensington) to afternoon tea in the sophisticated Park Lounge and delicious cocktails in the intimate Stables Bar. Every suite, room and corridor of The Milestone is a treasure trove of original artworks, but it is the hotel’s team of staff –led by general manager Andrew Pike – who tip the scales into unbeatable luxury.

“The Red Carnation Group does five-star luxury very well, and Andrew has never been anything other than extraordinary,” says Kate, adding: “The Milestone is one of my favourite places in the world.”

It’s an apt location, then, for Kate to share with us what first ignited her passion for hospitality, the bond she shares with her clients and hotel partners, and what true luxury means to her. »

An extraordinary touch

PERFECT LOCATION

UNIQUE RESIDENCE

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

PERSONAL LIAISON

EXCLUSIVE EXTRAS

There are hotels, and then there are hotels

Kate, we’re launching our collaboration here at The Milestone Hotel & Residences. What stands out to you about this wonderful venue?

It’s simply one of my favourite places in the world. I’ve known Andrew for 20 years; he is a consummate professional and the staff he employs are all superb. They genuinely care about their guests, and that comes from him. There’s a sense of charm and joy here that comes from its people.

Tell us about some of the hotels and residences that you recommend?

The main areas on which I focus are Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge and Mayfair – with a few extraordinary locations elsewhere in the capital, too. I tend to work with a select few hotels and residences that I absolutely love. I won’t ever recommend somewhere that I haven’t stayed in myself because I need to know how the hotels operate to recommend the best for my clients, whatever their needs.

I’ve also got some lovely serviced apartments next to the Tower of London, for example. The penthouse views of the Tower, HMS Belfast and the Shard are incredibly special. I’ve got a family staying there now, and they’ve told me they never want to stay anywhere else.

London is well known for its five-star hospitality. What makes a hotel really stand out from the crowd?

With a five-star hotel, it’s a given that you are going to get a wonderful place to stay, but what you really want is a unique experience – that extraordinary touch. For me, it’s about how you’re made to feel. When I recommend somewhere like The Milestone, my clients come back time and again, because they’ve

experienced such joy during their stay. For example, my wonderful client Jody is an older lady from the United States. She is “slow travelling” through Europe, so I arranged for her stay at The Milestone for a week – she loved it so much that we extended her stay to six weeks, with a return stay already organised for later this year. They have even renamed her suite ‘The Jody’.

What do you think creates that extraordinary touch?

It’s the people, and it comes from the top. You want to feel that people care, know your name and take an interest – whether that’s in your dog, your shoes, or where you went that day – and then maybe give you a phone call to say, “I know you did this yesterday, what about doing this today?” There are so many places where you pay the money for the food and service, but you don’t get the feeling – and it’s the feeling that makes the difference.

What are some of the considerations for choosing a serviced apartment or residence over a hotel?

A serviced apartment is similar to a hotel in terms of amenities, such as daily maid service and perhaps butler service, but you have all the space and privacy of an apartment, which is great for a large family or group. You’ll have a fully-fitted kitchen and lounge area, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms – I’ve got penthouses with four or five bedrooms.

Hotel residences offer serviced residences with private entrance, but you also have access to the hotel restaurants and spa. It’s the best of both worlds. A lot of celebrities and highprofile individuals often opt for a residence, as you get the five-star service with true privacy and exclusivity. »

“One of my favourite places in the world”: Kate Kerr relaxes in the Milestone Hotel & Residences’ luxurious Hermès Suite (left) before meeting general manager Andrew Pike in the hotel’s Park Lounge for afternoon tea (top)

Local expertise: Kate describes her role as an advocate and liaison for her clients. Below, with Andrew Pike in the Stables Bar. Opposite, with her Pomeranians in The Milestone Residences.

What you really want is a unique experience – that extraordinary touch

When matching clients to accommodation you must have to go quite in-depth to discover the small detail that make their experience. Where do you start?

It all starts with the practical reason for their visit. Someone on a business trip won’t want to waste time with long commutes, so location is a crucial factor, but someone on a romantic anniversary trip might prefer to be near wonderful restaurants and experiences. Then we explore what’s important to them on a more personal level – what style of hotel do they like, what do they want to do while they travel?

I’ll then speak to various hotels and residences that I think they would love, negotiate the best preferential rates, and present the options. It’s helpful for my clients to have a local expert who is also their liaison to the hotel, that way, if they need anything – cars for specific times, special pillows for an allergy, a particular brand of water – I can make sure it’s there and waiting for them.

It sounds like you get to know your clients extremely well.

I get to know them on a personal level because there’s a lot of trust involved. A lot of my clients like to chat on the phone, others prefer to email, but many have become friends. I want to know what makes someone tick, what makes them happy. That’s the joy of

what I do; I get to help people have a fantastic time and they are safe in the knowledge that they can put their trust in me.

I love the idea that, because you know the hotels so well, you can curate the same level of experience for clients who want to travel further afield. Absolutely, that’s actually something we talk about, because within the Red Carnation Group there’s a lovely hotel called Hotel 41, which is very close to Buckingham Palace. It’s very easy to arrange the Caledonian Sleeper up to their 100 Princes Street, Edinburgh hotel. What a royal tour that would be! In those hotels, you’ll get that same high standard of service while experiencing the different local vibes of London and Edinburgh, and that’s amazing.

How important is it for people to have that personal touch?

I do feel like everything has gone full circle from the early days of internet booking. People want to speak to somebody; they want someone on their side who can advocate for them. Someone they can message and just say: “We’re arriving at 3pm, do you think that will be okay?” and receive that instant reassurance. I love to provide that reassurance, to be there to hold their hand and make sure everything’s superb for them. That’s what it’s all about.

Curate your stay with Tempus

To book The Milestone Hotel, contact Tempus head of luxury Kate Kerr to enjoy exclusive privileges, including complimentary room upgrades, bespoke welcome amenities and VIP recognition throughout your stay.

To curate your stay in London and beyond with hand-picked locations, exclusive experiences and preferential rates, reach out to Kate via:

kate@tempusmagazine.co.uk

+44 (0) 7973 248 623

CREDITS

Art Direction: Ross Forbes

Hair & Make up: Katie Beveridge

Styling: Hayette Malmstrom

With thanks to Andrew Pike and the team at The Milestone Hotel & Residences. milestonehotel.com

Rosé refined

As the pink wine renaissance shows no signs of slowing, Tempus tracks the rise and rise of summer’s most popular wine

Words: Susan Springate

With summer upon us, and the promise of endless lazy days in the sunshine ahead, it’s time to crack open a bottle of our favourite rosé. These days, shelves are filled with a wide range of rosé wines throughout the year – UK sales have increased by 64% in the past year alone.

Many of the most popular varieties are produced in Provence in the South of France, in some of the most picturesque wineries in the world. Among the best-known is Whispering Angel, the flagship wine of Château d’Esclans, a vineyard north of SaintTropez. Its pale pink tint and delicate flavour has made it the best-selling rosé in the US, while its upmarket sibling, Garrus, is a favourite with celebrities including the Beckhams.

Its trailblazing founder, Sacha Lichine, had his finger on the pulse when he launched the label in 2006, at a time when rosé was still considered unrefined in wine circles. “I knew if I could give people a taste of a rosé of quality, it could really take off,” he says.

Sacha named his bestseller after a couple of carved cupids whispering to each other above the altar in the chapel of his magical 667-acre estate, and the rest, as they say, is history. The brand has released a limited-edition 20th vintage of Whispering Angel to mark the anniversary. “I never thought it would be as successful as it has been,” says Sacha.

Of course, the South of France has been producing rosé wines for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks introduced viticulture to Provence in around 600 BC and, today, rosé accounts for over 88% of all AOP wines grown in the region (Appellation d’Origine Protégée, means ‘protected area of origin’ and guarantees authenticity and quality). »

AN ANCIENT TRADITION

The revered Château Minuty, a five-minute drive from the coastline overlooking Saint-Tropez, has been refining its award-winning wines for three generations of the MattonFarnet family. The 19th-century estate, built during the reign of Napoléon III, was acquired by Gabriel Farnet in 1936 and has become one of the most highly esteemed châteaux on the Côte d’Azur. With over 160 hectares of vineyards in the heart of Provence, Château Minuty is one of the few estates to be certified Cru Classé, deemed exceptional. Made from Grenache grapes, the “king of rosé”, and Tibouren, emblematic of the Saint-Tropez Peninsula, Minuty has long been seen as the ultimate Provence rosé, and has been emulated by many producers in the region and beyond.

“At Minuty, we don’t just produce rosé; we have contributed to shaping the category of rosé as it exists today,” explains Frank Floc’hlay, recently appointed managing director of the château. “We were among those who believed in it when it was not yet a given, when it wasn't in vogue, and when it wasn’t easy. What sets us apart is that we have never stopped moving forward. We respect tradition while constantly reimagining its future.

“Each bottle captures something essential: the energy of long summer days, the golden warmth of a setting sun, and the simple pleasure of being together – the unadorned beauty of the present moment.”

Other long-established labels include Domaines Ott and Château Galoupet, while a host of relative newcomers are making their presence felt. Among them are AIX, which earned its Dutch owner Eric Kurver the prestigious Medaille d’Or in Paris in 2009, the very year it launched.

It was a similar story for British couple Stephen and Jeany Cronk, who gave up their comfortable life in a leafy suburb of London to create Maison Mirabeau in Provence the same year.

“We took the leap: sold our house in London, moved our three young children to the small Provençal village of Cotignac, in the upper Var, and started again. The following

year, we secured our first Waitrose listing, and that’s where the Mirabeau story began,” Jeany explains. Some 17 years on, they have just had their best year on record. “We will never aim to be the biggest or loudest, but we consistently set the bar high to make better wines each year and bring them to more people around the world,” says Jeany.

CELEBRITY

CUVÉES

Mirabeau’s celebrity neighbours include actors Brad Pitt and George Clooney and Star Wars filmmaker George Lucas, all of whom have purchased wine estates in the area. Brad made his first foray into the wine business in 2011, when he bought Château Miraval with then-partner Angelina Jolie. The property has been producing wine since the 13th century, when a monastery was built on the land and vineyards were planted. But its wines became big business after Brad teamed up with the prestigious Perrin family, owners of Château Beaucastle in Châteauneuf-duPape, releasing his first rosé in 2011. Pitt and the Perrins later joined forces with another winemaking family, the Péters, to produce the rosé champagne brand Fleur de Miraval, which was served at the Oscars for three consecutive years from 2022.

“With its rapid success, Miraval has become one of the most recognisable rosés in the world; a category catalyst, and a true ‘Grand Marque’ Provence Rosé,” says Andrew Bayley, managing director of Famille Perrin in the UK and Ireland.

Surprisingly, it’s not movie-star-backed Miraval but another Provence-style rosé, La Vieille Ferme, also popularly known as the ‘chicken wine’ (due to the quirkily illustrated poultry on its label) that is, according to Andrew, “the number one single best-selling wine in the UK of any colour”. Produced in a sunny region of the Southern Rhône, the affordably priced pale rosé (usually under £10) holds its own alongside many of its competitors. And, while it has been around since the 1970s, it has taken on a new lease of life in recent years, going viral on social media in summer 2024, and even nicknamed the “It-Girl” wine.

In the pink: Château d’Esclans’ range of exceptional rosés (previous), Mirabeau’s Endless Lunch (above), and Saint-Tropez’s Cru Classé Château Minuty M de Minuty Rosé (right)

At the other end of the scale is Clos du Temple, which has been described as “the world’s most expensive rosé”. Priced upwards of £200, it was created by celebrated winemaker and former rugby player Gérard Bertrand, who owns 16 châteaux and wine-growing estates across the Languedoc-Roussillon in the South of France. He also incidentally produces Jon Bon Jovi and his son’s Hampton Water rosé brand.

“Clos du Temple is the culmination of a personal ambition: to create a rosé that could stand among the world’s great wines,” explains Gérard. “Its uniqueness begins with its terroir in Cabrières, where schist and limestone soils meet on hillside terraces, a rare geological combination that brings both minerality and energy to the wine.

“The vineyard is farmed biodynamically, each parcel is vinified separately, and the wine is partly aged in French oak barrels to give it structure and ageing potential. Produced in very small quantities, Clos du Temple is designed to reveal the purity and depth of this exceptional place.

“The winery was designed as a modern temple dedicated to wine, perfectly integrated into the landscape and partly built underground to allow the juices to move by gravity, preserving their purity.

“Inside the cellar, we use pyramid-shaped vats. Beyond their symbolic reference to ancient temples, their shape has a real impact on the wine: the wider base increases the contact between the wine and the lees during fermentation. This brings texture, roundness and greater aromatic complexity, contributing to the depth and ageing potential of Clos du Temple.”

Gérard’s efforts have certainly borne fruit. In 2020, his second Cabrières vintage was voted best rosé in the world by Drinks Business Global Rosé Masters, the biggest international rosé competition, and recent vintages are consistently rated highly by the critics.

“Rosé has undergone a real renaissance over the past decade,” says Gérard. “For a long time, it was seen simply as a light, seasonal wine, but consumers have gradually discovered its versatility and gastronomic potential.

“Today, rosé represents elegance, freshness and conviviality, but it can also express great terroirs and remarkable complexity. When it is crafted with the same care as a great white or red wine, from exceptional vineyards with precise vinification, rosé can reach a very high level of refinement.”

esclans.com; minuty.com; maisonmirabeau.com; familleperrin.co.uk; gerard-bertrand.shop

SANLORENZO arrives in Mayfair

A new chapter for yachting elegance in London

In the elite world of luxury yachts, few names carry the cultural and creative weight of Sanlorenzo. Revered for its uncompromising approach to design, individuality and craftsmanship, the Italian shipyard has long appealed to a discerning global clientele who view a yacht not as a status symbol, but as a profoundly personal statement of who they are.

Now, with the opening of its new flagship showroom at 61 Park Lane, Mayfair, Sanlorenzo Yachts UK brings this philosophy directly into the heart of London’s most prestigious luxury district.

The opening of the Mayfair showroom marks a symbolic moment for the brand. Attended by Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of Sanlorenzo, the launch underscores the importance of the UK market and London’s enduring position as a global centre of luxury and style.

“London has always been one of the great international centres of culture, design and influence,” says Perotti.

“Establishing a presence in Mayfair allows us to

engage more closely with owners and clients who share our vision of yachting as a form of personal expression shaped through design, craftsmanship and innovation. With its rich maritime heritage, proud yachting culture and international community, the UK market remains strategically important for Sanlorenzo and we look to its future with great confidence.”

More than a traditional showroom, the Park Lane address has been conceived as a boutique consultation space – a private, refined environment designed for the next generation of yacht owners. Here, clients are invited to begin their ownership journey by articulating a vision, not just selecting a model. This is yachting as cocreation: a dialogue between owner, designer and shipyard, where individuality is paramount and no two yachts are ever the same.

Sanlorenzo’s distinction lies in its standing as the world’s leading single-branded shipyard for yachts over 24m, and in its singular willingness to relinquish internal aesthetic control to the client.

Owners are encouraged to collaborate with leading architects and interior designers of their choosing, shaping everything from spatial layout to material and colour palette.

The result is not a product line, but a portfolio of floating masterpieces – yachts defined by innovative asymmetric designs, expansive beach clubs with fold-down terraces, glass-bottom swimming pools and interiors that dissolve the boundary between inside and out.

Each yacht is conceived as a personal sanctuary, crafted around the owner’s lifestyle and built with the precision and artistry synonymous with Italian craftsmanship. It is an approach that resonates strongly with London’s ultra-high-networth audience – individuals accustomed to commissioning bespoke residences, collecting art and investing in experiences that reflect personal taste rather than prevailing trends.

For Nick Hatfield, Managing Director of Sanlorenzo Yachts UK, the London showroom represents the natural evolution of that relationship.

Floating masterpieces: The SD132 (main and right) epitomises Sanlorenzo’s philosophy. Far right, Sanlorenzo Yachts UK’s new London showroom in Park Lane.

“Establishing a physical presence in the heart of the world’s leading luxury capital city creates a natural starting point for the Sanlorenzo ownership journey,” he explains. “It allows clients to engage with our brand, our people and our philosophy without needing to leave London.”

The space will also bring Bluegame to the city – Sanlorenzo’s progressive sister brand. Together, they offer clients a comprehensive fleet that spans elegant displacement yachts, cutting-edge flybridge motor yachts and innovative crossover designs. Expert guidance is central to the experience, with consultations covering everything from design and build to ownership, crewing and charter.

Charter, in particular, plays an increasingly important role in introducing new clients to the brand. As luxury travellers move away from traditional itineraries in favour of highly personalised, private experiences, yacht charter has become the ultimate expression of freedom and discretion.

“Chartering is often the gateway into the

yachting lifestyle,” Hatfield notes. “Through Sanlorenzo’s charter fleet, clients are able to enjoy exceptional levels of service, absolute privacy and itineraries shaped entirely around their own preferences. For many, it becomes the natural first step towards ownership.”

Its ethos of made-to-measure yachting has defined Sanlorenzo since its earliest days. Founded in 1958 in a small Tuscan town, the shipyard has evolved over nearly seven decades into one of the most design-led and forward-thinking names in the industry. Under Mr Perotti’s leadership since 2005, the brand has enjoyed more than two decades of sustained growth, consistently pushing boundaries in engineering, sustainability and aesthetic innovation.

Today, Sanlorenzo is widely recognised not only for its design excellence, but also for its progressive approach to responsible yachting – integrating hybrid propulsion systems, energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials into its latest builds.

As the exclusive representative for the UK and

Ireland, Sanlorenzo Yachts UK plays a pivotal role in bringing the shipyard’s philosophy to a local audience. The Park Lane showroom complements the company’s base in Swanwick, Southampton, reinforcing its commitment to providing a highly personal, end-to-end service for British and UKbased owners.

Officially opened on 14 April 2026, the Mayfair showroom is more than a new location. It is a statement of intent – bringing Sanlorenzo’s world of elegance, creativity and craftsmanship to London, and offering a current and a new generation of owners a distinctly personal way to enjoy the yachting lifestyle.

For those who understand that the ultimate luxury is not just ownership, but authorship, Sanlorenzo’s London chapter begins here.

sanlorenzoyachts.co.uk

info@sanlorenzoyachts.co.uk

+44 (0) 203 319 9663

61 PARK LANE / MAYFAIR / LONDON

Driving history

Tempus heads to Monte-Carlo for the world’s most beautiful classic car street race – the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique

OWords: Rory FH Smith

n the whole, I disagree with people who yearn for the ‘good old days’; I prefer progress, change and technical innovation. But, after a weekend watching some of history’s most iconic racing cars take on the Fairmont Hairpin at the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, I’ll happily reconsider.

For those fortunate enough to witness the ear-splitting sound and thunderous flash of red left by Michael Schumacher’s 1999 championshipwinning V10-powered Ferrari blasting out of Monaco’s infamous hairpin and into the Larvotto tunnel, you’ll know what I mean. Watching it from the rooftop of the Fairmont hotel, glass of champagne in hand, there are few greater moments for any motorsport fan.

“I’m excited but apprehensive at the same time,” said its driver, Londonbased classic car expert and racing driver Joe Macari, moments before climbing into the scarlet Ferrari for a parade lap around the Principality. Its arrival was alarming. A demon; high-pitched shriek that split the air as it came down from Casino Square, as a blur of red, black and overwhelming noise darting into the gentle curves before downshifting with mighty force into the tight hairpin. It was both brutal and physical; more animal than machine.

“Even down the straight in third gear, you’re getting wheelspin. You had to get used to that but once you did, my God, what a reward,” said Joe, recovering from his lap behind the wheel. »

Start your engines:

historic Formula 1 cars take to the streets of MonteCarlo (previous and above).

The Fairmont Hotel offers unbeatable views of the action (opposite and next)

The din from these screaming, wastegate-slamming machines from the early 1980s could be heard from the other side of the harbour

Monaco has been a mecca for motorsport since 1929 when Antony Noghes, a local cigarette manufacturer with connections at the Automobile Club de Monaco, had a hunch that the Principality would be well-suited to a street race. He was right. The Monaco Grand Prix joined the Formula 1 World Championship in its very first season in 1950 and, save for a solitary absence in 1955, has been there ever since.

The Monaco Historique Grand Prix was originally conceived as a one-off celebration of the city-state’s ruling Grimaldi dynasty's 700th anniversary and proved so popular that it became a permanent biennial fixture, celebrating Monaco’s enduring penchant for motorsport.

This year’s event saw everything from prewar Grand Prix cars, such as Bugattis and Alfa Romeos, to 1950s Maseratis and Ferraris, alongside, for the first time, F1’s turbo-era cars. The din from these screaming, wastegateslamming machines from the early 1980s could be heard from the other side of the harbour, complete with their unapologetic ‘cigarettes and sex’ liveries. Well, this was the era of cads like Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost and Nelson Piquet. Woven around the turbo cars was a rich tapestry of anniversaries, such as Maserati’s centenary in motorsport and 60 years of the three-litre regulations that defined Grand Prix racing's golden age.

BEST VIEW IN THE HOUSE

To experience all of this, there is only one place to stay. The Fairmont Monte Carlo has been the backdrop to some of Formula 1’s greatest moments for more than 50 years; the sprawling, 596-room institution that is as much a part of the story as any car in the paddock. Built on the site of Monaco's old railway station, the hotel has commanded its position above the Mediterranean since the 1970s. Spread across seven floors and 60,000sqm, it’s the only hotel that offers rooms with a view of the race that no grandstand ticket can replicate, each with a private balcony.

It’s the hotel’s four Grand Prix Suites that are the ultimate ticket. Measuring 85sqm, each has three balconies looking out simultaneously over the track and the sea. On a Historique race weekend, with the sun bouncing off the Mediterranean and a Ford Cosworth DFV howling through the hairpin nine floors below, it is F1 fan nirvana.

The Fairmont's spread of restaurants is equally appealing. Nobu, the world-renowned Japanese-Peruvian restaurant, occupies the ground floor. I’d recommend handing the menu over to the immensely knowledgeable staff to advise on the best selection from the kitchen. Up on the roof, Amù, meaning ‘love’ in Monegasque, is a “celebration of the love for Riviera” – expect the finest fresh fish and seafood, served on a terrace with uninterrupted »

views out to sea. It’s a great place for yacht spotting, if you fancy a break from the racing.

Next to the Fairmont’s rooftop balcony overlooking the hairpin is Nikki Beach, which brings race-day energy and louche, rosé-fuelled poolside dining. For the morning after, the hotel's gym looks directly down onto the hairpin, making it the only fitness facility in the world where you can work out while watching a 1970s Formula 1 car negotiate a corner beneath you.

The Monaco Historique Grand Prix is unique in the motorsport calendar. Sure, it’s slower than the modern Formula 1 race that follows it a few weeks later, and quieter when it comes to crowds, but it’s much more intoxicating.

Perhaps it’s the potent smell of the unburnt fuel mixed with Monaco’s zesty spring breeze. Or maybe it’s that the Monaco Historique is peak, unapologetic F1. A reminder of a time when the cars were as eccentric as they were experimental, drivers were rockstars and races felt recklessly alive. Through it all, the Fairmont Monte Carlo has been at the epicentre, providing the best seats in the house for more than half a century. So yes, perhaps the good old days really were better. At least when viewed from a rooftop bar, champagne in hand, with a screaming Ferrari beneath you.

acm.mc; fairmont.com

Introducing the Tempus Collection, by Amalgam

Amalgam Collection is recognised worldwide as makers of the finest scale models of Formula 1, modern and classic cars. Working with Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini and more, their work is unique in its attention to detail and authenticity, together with a focus on creating collectible models that truly capture the style and spirit of each extraordinary car.

Amalgam’s new Tempus Collection celebrates the 2025 Formula 1 season with two exquisite vehicles: the Ferrari SF-25, celebrating Lewis Hamilton’s debut for Scuderia Ferrari HP, and series champion Lando Norris’ McLaren MCL39. Each limited-edition model is available as a meticulously hand weathered version, recreating the precise dirt and patina of the cars at the end of the race.

To discover more and buy your model, visit www.tempusmagazine.co.uk/amalgam

Back on Track

The outstanding supercars proving that high octane performance isn’t reserved for the racetrack

Words: Tessa Crowley

With Formula 1 in the spotlight, and as fans of the behemoth motor racing series flock to Monaco and Silverstone this summer, it’s fair to say the sport has never been hotter. The Grand Prix’s popularity has boomed over recent years, driven by Brad Pitt’s cultural blockbuster F1 – capturing the glamour, grit, and high-octane thrills of the track – and Netflix’s knock-out Drive to Survive documentary, familiarising fans with the faces and lives of its stars.

Inspired by their racing heritage, many marques are readying themselves to unleash the next generation of supercars on the roads. From racing days, track cars and high-octane experiences, modern cars are no longer content with being confined to the track. Instead, they seek the same meticulous engineering, considered construction, head-turning design, and high performance on the roads – and top marques are flocking to oblige. Here, we share five next-generation supercars perfect for a life in the fast lane.

ASTON MARTIN VALHALLA

Seven long years after its 2019 announcement, the Aston Martin Valhalla has finally hit the streets (this page). Billed as the brand’s first midengine PHEV supercar with true hypercar performance, the Valhalla promises the spirit of the Valkyrie with an added Formula 1-inspired boost. Track car traits abound in every curve of the driving experience – from the raised-heel driving position and elevated footwells giving directional, hip-to-heel seating, to the pared-back driver-centric cockpit and on-screen Race Mode graphics. Boasting Aston Martin’s first ever twin clutch gearbox, along with a trio of electric motors, air braking, a hydraulically activated active rear wing, and automatic drag reduction, it promises pace, performance and unshakeable stability. » astonmartin.com

FERRARI 849 TESTAROSSA

Conceived to delight even the most exacting drivers, Ferrari’s latest sportscar, the 849 Testarossa (below), could top the brand’s existing road car offering with its slew of improvements and innovations. A hybrid plug-in super sports Berlinetta, its finetuned V8 engine and new turbo – the largest ever for a Ferrari production car – enables unprecedented acceleration when combined with its advanced hybrid system. The three electric motors and award-winning mid-rear twin-turbo together deliver a total of 1050 cv,

while other innovations include a redesigned active spoiler to increase downforce, ABS Evo controller to improve braking precision, and revised spring and damper set-up. Boasting the best power-to-weight ratio for a range model, the 849 Testarossa’s impressive aerodynamic performance and aesthetic interior is sure to thrill Ferrari fans. And with the first electric Ferrari – the newly named ‘Luce’ – receiving mixed reactions, the 849 Testarossa is sure to provide a necessary counterpoint.

ferrari.com

Inspired by their racing heritage, many marques are readying themselves to unleash the next generation of supercars on the roads

With production commencing and delivery planned for the spring, lauded McLaren Formula 1 designer, Professor Gordon Murray CBE, has announced his latest release – his first V12 Spider supercar (above and left). Crafted under his eponymous marque, Gordon Murray Automotive, the T.33 Spider is a highly anticipated addition to the brand’s lineup. British-built in Surrey, the model will combine the T.33’s timeless design with ultralight materials and meticulous engineering. With a firm focus on driving experience, it features exceptional torsional stiffness and carbonfire monocoque construction to promise unparalleled handling and agility. With two removable roof panels, a deployable rear window and the naturally aspirated Cosworth GMA.2 V12 behind the cabin, it promises the step-ahead technology and driving experience expected from a GMA heritage offering. »

gordonmurrayautomotive.com

GORDON MURRAY T.33 SPIDER

A special mention must go to Red Bull Advanced Technologies’ new RB17 hypercar (above and right) – first unveiled at Goodwood Festival of Speed – as final assembly and circuit testing commences this summer. The 50 all-carbon fibre, Adrian Newey-designed models are conceived as track-only two-seaters. With a semi-stressed mid mounted naturally aspirated V10 engine promising more than 1,200 HP, and top speeds in excess of 350 kph. Conceived to thrill as a track car, it is rumoured that hypercar specialist and converter, Lanzante, may offer upgrades and modifications making it legal for UK road use. Designed to be faster than current F1 track cars – and with early virtual estimates reinforcing the expectation – it’s set to be a sight to behold.

redbullracing.com

RED BULL RB17

JAGUAR TYPE 01

Whether you loved it or hated it, the Type 00, Jaguar’s first concept car under its polarising rebranding, set tongues wagging when announced back in December 2024. Finally taking to the road later this year, the electric grand tourer now has an official name – the Type 01 (below). Original? Perhaps not, but the name is designed to champion old and new, with ‘Type’ referencing legendary predecessors, and ‘1’ signifying it as the first of a new generation (the ‘0’ is for zero tailpipe emissions). And at Paris Fashion Week this spring, the model caused more commotion as a bright blue prototype stole the show, seen on the city’s streets driven by Irish actor Barry Keoghan.

jaguar.com

KEEPING TIME

The world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt tells Tempus about his winning philosophy, the athletes to watch, and his timeless collaboration with Hublot

Words: Michelle Johnson

Seventeen years since Usain Bolt set the world record of 9.58 seconds for the 100m sprint, the world’s fastest man’s personal best remains unbeaten. During his outstanding track career, Usain earned eight Olympic gold medals at three consecutive Games in Beijing 2008, London 2012 and Rio de Janeiro 2016, as well as 11 World Athletics Championship victories.

The Jamaican athlete (pictured) captured the public’s imagination the world over, not just for his unbeatable skill on the track, but also thanks to the authentic joy and fun-loving nature he shared with fans and fellow sports stars –from his ‘lightning bolt’ pose to fist-bumping volunteers for good luck before races. In 2012, the Associated Press said of his influence: “Almost single-handedly, Bolt has helped track transform itself from a dying sport to one with a singular, smiling, worldwide star.”

These days, after retiring from athletics in 2017, while Usain may no longer spend life in the fast lane, he instead uses his time to concentrate on the things that matter most to him – family, philanthropy and a range of ambassadorial roles that keep him travelling the world and making a demonstrable impact. The 39-year-old shares three children – daughter Olympia Lightning, six,

and twin sons Thunder and Saint Leo, five – with his partner, Jamaican model and entrepreneur, Kasi Bennett, whom he calls his ‘First Lady’.

His ambassadorial roles span from representing his home country as Jamaica’s Global Tourism Ambassador to roles with World Athletics, where he is an ambassador for the Ultimate Championships which takes place in Budapest in September this year.

His eponymous Usain Bolt Foundation, inspired by his youth growing up in rural Jamaica, works throughout the country on grassroots projects to support education, opportunities and cultural development for children – from providing school equipment and athletics programmes, to aiding with relief efforts after Hurricane Melissa hit the island in late October last year.

A creative talent, Usain has been an ambassador for watch brand Hublot since 2010, releasing his first official watch collaboration – the King Power Usain Bolt – two years later. His latest novelty, released at Watches and Wonders Geneva this year, is his most personal yet. The Big Bang Reloaded Usain Bolt is described by the brand as a “manifesto in motion”: a 200-piece limitededition edition crafted in 44mm black

ceramic and carbon and powered by the inhouse HUB1280 Unico Manufacture flyback chronograph calibre. On the skeletonised dial, between 6 and 8 o’clock, numerals reading 6-5-8 can be flipped to read Usain’s worldrecord time of 9.58 seconds. Other personal touches include his trademark lightning boltshaped chronograph second hand, while on the caseback, authentic soil from the former sprinter’s childhood training ground in Jamaica is suspended between two sapphire crystals inside a lightning bolt. The polished 18K yellow gold bezel is inscribed with his personal mantra: “Anything is possible, don’t think limits”.

“Working on this watch with Hublot allowed me to rewind and replay my race journey,” he says. “To do it with a partner who’s been with me since 2010, even after I hung up my spikes, makes it more than a watch. It conveys meanings and beliefs such as trusting yourself, sprinting beyond limits, pushing every boundary.

“Time waits for no one, but you can beat it!”

Here, Usain looks back on his athletic legacy, shares his love for Jamaica, and tells us why he is proud that his story of hard work and resilience is inspiring a new generation of track superstars. »

BIG BANG / HUB1280 / FLYBACK CHRONOGRAPH

Usain, tell us about your limitededition Big Bang Reloaded Usain Bolt – how involved were you in creating the timepiece?

I was very involved in the design of this watch. From the very beginning we explored different ideas and they gave me a lot of creative freedom. I am really happy and proud of the outcome. It is a beautiful watch with so many unique features that tell my story.

There are many features that have special significance from the upside down 9-5-8 (my 100m world record time) numerals and the lightning bolt second hand, to my motto: “Anything is possible, don’t think limits”, engraved in gold on the bezel. [There is even] compressed soil from my childhood training track in Jamaica on the caseback. The gold and green colour represents Jamaica, and the camouflage strap option is a nod to the rural countryside where I grew up.

Can you share a memorable moment from your collaboration with Hublot? What did you enjoy about working with the team and your fellow sporting stars?

I have been working with Hublot for over 15 years. It is a great partnership. What attracted me to the brand was their passion, innovation and creativity. They have a slogan: ‘Hublot loves sport’ – and they really do.

We have done so many great things together over the years. This is my fourth signature watch with Hublot – each one is a thing of beauty. We shared many events with other stars of sport, fashion, film and music. Meeting football legends Pelé in New York and Maradona in Switzerland stand out. We have attended World Cups, summer parties and worked on charity events together. Everything Hublot does is top level.

How has your mantra, which is inscribed on the bezel of the watch, guided you throughout your career?

“Anything is possible, don’t think limits” is my motto and something I tell children and adults all around the world. I came from humble beginnings in rural Jamaica yet through hard work and dedication I became a sporting legend and the world’s fastest man. My story can inspire others to work hard and follow your dreams.

My philosophies evolve as I travel the world and experience different cultures and people but, deep down, I credit my parents with instilling very strong values ever since I was young, which still apply every day of my life. My father always told me that if you want something you have to work hard for it. I saw how he hard he worked, yet always had time for people and tried to help wherever he could. »

Everyone at the top level in elite sport has talent, but it is mentality that turns this talent into champions

Your Big Bang references your recordbreaking sprint time, with a really fun numeral design on the dial. Looking back at your athletics career, what does that legacy mean to you?

The 9.58 [on the dial] is in reference to my 100m world record, set in Berlin in 2009. I am proud of this achievement along with my other world records in the 200m and 4x100m, but what I am most proud of was the way I was able to dominate sprinting over three Olympic cycles –from Beijing 2008 to London 2012 and then Rio 2016. The Olympic and World Championship titles are what stand out and hopefully inspire other young athlete to chase their dreams.

You’ve been vocal in your support for the new generation of track athletes. What are the important lessons that your career offers to young athletes?

I showed the world what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Everyone at the top level in elite sport has talent, but it is mentality that turns this talent into champions. I tried to entertain the public and bring attention to our sport by being my natural authentic self.

A lot of the lessons you learn in sport can be applied to your work or your everyday life. Setting goals, working hard to achieve them, overcoming obstacles – these are all things that are common between sport and life.

Are there any athletes who are exciting you right now?

There are a lot of talented young athletes. [US athlete] Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis is doing

things in the pole vault that nobody has ever done before, and we are seeing crazy times in the long-distance races – like Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe breaking two hours for the marathon recently in London.

You are Jamaica’s global tourism ambassador. Is it important for you to represent your home country in your work?

Yes, I am a proud Jamaican and always try to represent my people in the best possible way. Jamaica is a beautiful country but there is much more to it than just the sunshine and the beaches. I always encourage people to come and visit and experience the vibrant culture, the people, the energy, the food, the music, the vibes…

Your eponymous Usain Bolt Foundation does incredible work with children in Jamaica – could you tell us more?

The mission of the Usain Bolt Foundation is to create opportunities through education and cultural development for a positive change. We work with schools and youth organisations to support projects that enhance child development.

Finally, both your athletic career and the Hublot Big Bang Reloaded have time at the centre. What do you consider time well spent?

Time well spent is time spent hanging out, chilling, laughing and enjoying the company of friends and family. »

THE ART OF Fusion

Julien, what was the inspiration behind Hublot’s 2026 releases?

Our inspiration stems from a relentless pursuit of innovation. We continuously challenge ourselves to push boundaries, exploring new materials, revolutionary movements and bold aesthetic expressions. The new Big Bang Reloaded is a response to this, where we put our Unico movement back at the centre of attention and rework the aesthetic codes and definitions of the timepiece making it more modern and contemporary in feel.

You have described Hublot as disruptive and avant-garde in its approach. How does this manifest in the brand’s latest novelties?

The ‘Art of Fusion’ is the very heartbeat of Hublot. It’s not just a concept; it’s our philosophy. In our latest novelties, this manifests in the juxtaposition of unexpected materials, like combining high-tech ceramic with precious metals, or advanced composites with natural rubber. It is also evident in the meticulous setting of diamonds directly into sapphire.

Could you tell us more about Hublot’s approach to cutting-edge materials?

We pioneered the use of natural rubber in haute horlogerie and have continued

to explore and master a diverse palette of materials. From scratch-resistant Magic Gold to vibrant coloured ceramics, transparent sapphire cases, and intricate carbon fibre structures, our material innovation is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about enhancing durability, comfort and the overall performance of our timepieces. We are always searching for the next “unthinkable” material to integrate into our watches.

Hublot is renowned for its partnerships within the world of sports. What do you look for in a brand ambassador like Usain Bolt, Novak Djokovic and Kylian Mbappé? Our brand ambassadors are not just faces; they are extensions of the Hublot spirit. We look for individuals who embody excellence, determination and a pioneering spirit in their respective fields. They are those who, like Hublot, dare to be different, constantly striving for new achievements and pushing the limits of what is possible. Each collaboration tells a compelling story of shared values, passion, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. The limited editions we launched with these three ambassadors are all unique and truly reflect their personalities in a real and authentic way. This storytelling is vital in connecting with our collectors and communicating the depth of our brand.

What has been your most memorable ambassador partnership?

It’s truly challenging to pick just one, as each partnership holds a special place and has contributed significantly to the Hublot narrative. However, the energy and charisma that Usain Bolt brought to the brand early on were electrifying. He has been part of the family since 2010 and having his support all of the years really means a lot.

What is it about luxury watchmaking that continues to excite you?

The direction that the industry is taking, where we see today more than ever a unique blend of art, science and history… it’s a field where tradition meets innovation, where centuriesold craftsmanship is constantly being reinterpreted through modern technology. The ability to create miniature mechanical marvels that tell stories and mark moments in time, while also pushing the boundaries of design and material science, is endlessly fascinating. I am incredibly happy to be at Hublot, a brand that can be very expressive when it comes to watchmaking, blending high end watchmaking with innovation in all aspects of the business.

hublot.com

Watch this space: Hublot CEO Julien Tornare with ambassador Usain Bolt in Geneva at Watches & Wonders 2026. Interview: Michelle Johnson

Hublot CEO Julien Tornare shares the driving force behind the watchmaker's pioneering approach

CARIBBEAN

Conscience

Known as the Caribbean’s ‘nature island’, beautiful Dominica is making ambitious plans for a sustainable future while still retaining its traditional cultures and customs

Words:

Judith Baker

Known for its lush landscape, sparkling waterfalls and fascinating wildlife, the Caribbean Island of Dominica is an unspoilt treasure that is harnessing its renowned natural assets to create a luxury destination for the environmentally aware traveller. Those looking for adventure that doesn’t impact nature need look no further.

With ambitious plans to become totally carbon neutral by 2030, fabulous eco-resorts making their mark on the hospitality scene, a new international airport opening in 2027, and the world’s longest cable car putting unspoilt areas of natural beauty on the tourist map, Dominica is fast becoming an impressive paradise for the conscious traveller. Its natural beauty spans dramatic scenery that ranges from nine volcanoes, 365 rivers, countless sparkling waterfalls, verdant green countryside and richly populated ocean.

Dominica is the only country in the world where sperm whales live all year round, and the island boasts more than 20 species of whales and dolphins near its shores. To get up close to these beautiful creatures, find unbeatable whale watching adventures in Scott’s Head, at the southernmost tip of the island, or Layou – just 30-minutes north of the Dominica’s vibrant capital city, Roseau.

It’s in Roseau that visitors can get a taste of the rich traditions, history and cultures that make contemporary Dominica what it is today, whether visiting the famous Mas Domnik carnival that leads up to Lent, to the annual Dominica Jazz ‘N Creole Festival in March and World Creole Music Festival in October.

Interestingly, Dominica is one of the few Caribbean islands that is still home to the indigenous Kalinago people, who populated the island before European colonisation. In addition to the Kalinago Barana Aute – a cultural centre showcasing traditional life, crafts and cuisine through homestays and restaurants – in the eastern territories, the Kalinago people play an important role in Mas Domnik, leading the traditional Téwé Vaval, or ‘Burial of the Carnival’. This unique street parade held on Ash Wednesday symbolises the 40-day countdown to Easter in vibrant fashion, complete with drumming, dancing, and food and drink, all culminating in a dramatic bonfire. »

Dominica is an unspoilt treasure that is harnessing its renowned natural assets to create a luxury destination for the environmentally aware traveller

NATURAL BEAUTY

Home to one of the world’s most long-lived populations (the world’s oldest woman, Elizabeth Israel – better known as Ma Pampo – lived to be 128 years old before she died in 2003), many credit the island’s unspoilt environment, chemical-free farming and the rejuvenating powers of Dominica’s natural sulphur springs.

The Roseau Valley, close to the island’s capital, is famed for its natural hot springs and mineral-rich mud pools. Head to Ti Kwen Glo Cho (which means ‘little corner of hot water’), Screw’s Sulphur Spa or Bongo Baths for open-air sulphur springs, geothermal pools and rainforest views.

For hikers in search of a challenge, the Waitukubuli National Trail is the longest hiking route in the Caribbean, with 180km of walking trails spanning the length and breadth of Dominica’s incredible biodiversity. Tackle the entire epic challenge in approximately 12 days or take it section by section – it is separated into 14 segments. In the northwest, glide along the slow-moving Indian River in a brightly coloured rowing boat, weaving through dense jungle and spotting iguanas, herons, crabs and agoutis. Take a break at the beloved Indian River Bush Bar – a rustic local landmark only accessible by boat – to sample local bush teas, fruit juices or its classic signature cocktail, the Dynamite, a potent locally crafted bush rum punch.

Perhaps chief among Dominica’s remarkable natural wonders is the Boiling Lake, the world’s second largest hot lake located in the Unescoprotected Morne Trois Pitons National Park. Access to the lake and its incredible bubbling sulphur springs, mud holes and colourful volcanic rock formations currently requires a certified expedition guide – and a long, arduous trek from the popular Titou Gorge, where tourists can swim through a series of natural rooms and ponds at the base of a waterfall before relaxing in the hot springs. However, a new 6.6km cable car from the Roseau Valley will transform the six-hour hike into a breathtaking 20-minute journey without the need for new roads or deforestation.

This cable car isn’t the only eco-minded infrastructural marvel launching this year. Among Dominica’s many exciting plans to revitalise its tourism industry and sustainability credentials is a new 10MW geothermal power plant – which began operations this year after more than 15 years of research, development and construction – tapping into the copious natural underground reservoirs of boiling water. But Dominica’s environmental credentials don’t stop there…

EFFORTLESS LUXURY

This beautiful island is home to a number of stunning hotel properties that blend effortlessly into its natural landscape. Coulibri Ridge is an ecoresort that sits dramatically on a mountain ridge in Dominica’s far south , surrounded by sulphur springs and rainforest, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other.

The vision of Canadian-born IT entrepreneur Daniel Langlois, Coulibri Ridge opened in 2022 after 20 years of research and construction, carefully designed and built to create a stunning luxury resort that respects the local environment. Completely off grid, the resort generates all its electrical needs through solar and other sustainable energy technologies on site.

Locally sourced and hand-hewn stone steps connect the six main buildings housing the resort’s fabulous sky penthouses, lofts and studios. Exquisite interiors pay every attention to comfort and luxury, with elegant contemporary furnishings and materials made from recycled or

reclaimed material. The penthouses each have a private infinity pool and, whether facing the rainforest or the ocean, huge windows offer magical views as you wake to musical birdsong.

In addition to two large communal infinity pools, the resort offers a secluded open-air spa and yoga area, where guests can enjoy energising treatments and activities surrounded by nature. Dine in the lovely informal Mesa restaurant for breakfast and lunch, where fresh tropical fruits and Caribbean specialities are a delight for the tastebuds. And in the evening, rooftop restaurant Riva curates fine dining and cocktails beneath the stars. Chef Damien Mason’s seasonal menus use produce grown on site or by local suppliers and farms.

Perfect for relaxing, well located for hiking and adventure Coulibri epitomises Dominica’s plans to create luxury elegance in a natural unspoilt environment for a new generation of visitors.

discoverdominica.com; coulibriridge.com

Island living: Discover Dominica's natural beauty (previous and this page). Opposite, Coulibri Ridge resort offers ecofriendly luxury

ANIMAL Magnetism

Get up close and personal with the natural world with these new wildlife-focused adventures

Words: Shivani Dubey

Earlier this year, the UK celebrated the 100th birthday of wildlife broadcaster and conservationist

Sir David Attenborough. The creator of Planet Earth and Blue Planet took wildlife documentaries to new heights (and depths), capturing the imaginations of generations of viewers. No wonder, then, that 2026 has already seen a boom in leisure

travel that is more focused than ever on our natural world. And savvy luxury resorts are getting in on the action, from safaris that get you up close and personal with the wildlife to conversation around bio-conservation and protecting endangered species.

Now, more than ever, travellers are taking intentional trips to destinations that actively help in protecting the environment

by directly participating in sustainable conservation efforts and learning more about how they can help save critically endangered fauna. Whether it is swimming with (and learning about) the manta rays to gorilla and rhino tracking, we put the spotlight on four luxury resorts that are helping visitors get up close and personal with the natural world.

FIELD NOTE 01 GORILLA TREK

SILVERBACK LODGE | UGANDA

SPECIES: MOUNTAIN GORILLA

HABITAT: TROPICAL RAINFOREST

ENCOUNTER: GUIDED FOREST TREK

CONSERVATION: HABITAT PROTECTION

There are only two populations of mountain gorillas left in the entire world. One can be found in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, while the other is in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a dense rainforest which houses the Silverback Lodge (main) – an intimate, design-led safari lodge resting on a forested ridge in the park’s Buhoma sector.

It features just 12 spacious rooms, all with private terraces overlooking the rainforest, and offers privileged access to some of the world’s most sought-after mountain gorilla trekking experiences. For those who love hiking and being one with nature, there are many gorilla trekking tours that give you the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come face-to-face with these remarkable creatures (above).

The guides are seasoned professionals who ensure you get to be near these endangered species without disturbing their homes, giving you a chance to learn more about them while also actively aiding in the area’s conservation and community efforts. And, once you’ve returned from your trek, you can head over to Wellnest, Silverback Lodge’s nature-led spa focused on post-trek recovery and restoration. »

silverbacklodge.com

FIELD NOTE 02 GAME DRIVE

WILDERNESS MOKETE / BOTSWANA

SPECIES: LION

HABITAT: THE MABABE PLAINS

ENCOUNTER: BIG-GAME VIEWING

CONSERVATION: SANCTUARY CONSERVATION

Mababe in Botswana is an area of tremendous ecological significance. It harbours a marsh that fills with water in the summer season, serving as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a vital habitat for numerous bird species. Wilderness Mokete, which opened in May 2024, is the only operator in the region, and the only lodge in more than 50,000 hectares, making it a truly wild and exclusive game-viewing experience.

The resort consists of nine en-suite canvas tents (above) and a communal tented lounge area, connected by raised wooden walkways. The camp is situated between two national parks in an unrivalled location of the Mababe region, on the eastern fringe of the Okavango Delta.

Big game concentrates on Mababe’s newly revived lake depression in vast numbers – including majestic prides of lions.

Mega-herds of elephant and buffalo, huge prides of lions, and a wondrous diversity of antelope throng here in a number the likes of which are rarely seen anywhere else on the entire continent. The buffalos are often hunted by these lions, turning this seemingly quiet, open plain into a battleground, making for a truly entertaining safari experience (if you’re not squeamish, of course). When it comes to watching animals act on their natural instincts, there is, quite literally, no other place like it. »

wildernessdestinations.com

FIELD NOTE 03

LAGOON DIVE

INTERCONTINENTAL MALDIVES MAAMUNAGAU RESORT / MALDIVES

SPECIES: MANTA RAY

HABITAT: BAA ATOLL MARINE AREA

ENCOUNTER: GUIDED MANTRA RETREAT

CONSERVATION: THE MANTA TRUST

The Maldives is one of the premier destinations in the world for swimming with or observing manta rays. It is home to thousands of resident mantas that migrate between atolls with the monsoons. The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort (this page) regularly hosts manta retreats, offering a rare opportunity to observe young manta rays as they gather in the resort’s lagoon, which is nestled on the edge of the Baa Atoll Unesco World Biosphere Reserve and borders a juvenile manta ray aggregation site.

The resort has a longstanding partnership with The Manta Trust, which is dedicated to achieving global conservation through innovative research, education, and collaboration to protect and preserve manta rays. Through this retreat, guests have the chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat just a short boat ride away. Some retreat highlights include guided reef snorkelling tours, manta excursions, coral restoration and planting workshops for a truly fulfilling aquatic adventure.

maldives.intercontinental.com

FIELD NOTE 04

DESERT RHINO TRACK

WILDERNESS DESERT RHINO CAMP / NAMIBIA

SPECIES: DESERT-ADAPTED BLACK RHINO

HABITAT: PALMWAG CONCESSION

ENCOUNTER: TRACK, WALK AND DRIVE

CONSERVATION: SAVE THE RHINO TRUST

Rhinos are one of the most critically endangered species in the world, with approximately just 30,000 living in the wild today. But, in Namibia, you can have front row seats to the most thrilling wildlife adventure in Africa: tracking the world’s largest free-ranging population of desert-adapted black rhino across the dramatic landscapes of the Palmwag Concession in Damaraland (below).

An excursion developed by The Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp, the resort’s design and materials blend seamlessly into the desert (left), with eight large luxury tents set on wooden platforms, all affording superb views of the surrounding plains. The camp also has a longstanding partnership of 21 years with Save the Rhino Trust Namibia, helping safeguard these rare animals through community-driven conservation and resource support.

Led by expert rangers and scouts, guests will track rhinos on foot for a heart-pounding, once-in-a-lifetime encounter – all without disturbing their natural habitat.

wildernessdestinations.com

CLEAR VISION

As New York eyewear brand MOSCOT celebrates 111 years of blending expert optics with visionary style, Harvey and Zack Moscot – the fourth and fifth generation of the family-run brand –have their sights set on the future

5 GENERATIONS / 111 YEARS / 43 SHOPS

Family-owned for five generations, New York heritage eyewear brand MOSCOT has spent more than 111 years combining premium eyewear with optical expertise.

The vision of founder Hyman Moscot – who arrived on Manhattan’s Lower East Side in 1899 and began selling readymade glasses from a pushcart – remains alive today through fourth-generation CEO Harvey Moscot (pictured, far left) and his son, Zack (left).

From Hyman’s first Shop in 1915 to the 43 MOSCOT locations Harvey and Zack now oversee across the UK, Europe, Asia, Australia and beyond, the company’s core values have remained remarkably consistent.

“Passion, integrity, expertise, craftsmanship, and quality of service,” says Harvey. “I had the good fortune to work with my great-grandfather, Sol [second generation]. He believed in treating people fairly – if you treat people fairly, they’ll come back. It’s important to us to be helpful, philanthropic, and generous to our community. We all carry those values forward.”

Zack agrees that community remains central to the brand’s success. “We occupy a unique space because we’re an optical brand that also offers fashionable, customisable eyewear – and that’s rare,” he says. “A big part of our DNA is employing experts in their field. Every customer has different needs, and we insist that optical expertise is available in every MOSCOT Shop around the world. But it’s equally important that shopping for glasses feels fun, not clinical.”

“Where we’re from, creative expression has always been celebrated,” Harvey adds. “We like to challenge traditional style rules. But when it comes to lenses, we focus on finding the right solution for each customer’s lifestyle. Are they spending most of their time indoors or outdoors? Working at a computer? Looking at multiple distances throughout the day? It’s a complete package, not just the frame.” »

A pair of MOSCOT glasses can do more than change your look. They can change your outlook

— Harvey Moscot, CEO

DESIGN FOR LIFE

MOSCOT’s distinctive eyewear has recently appeared on screen in productions including The Devil Wears Prada 2, where Stanley Tucci wears The FOYGEL, and Marty Supreme, starring Timothée Chalomet. Designed by Zack, MOSCOT’s latest collections blend flattering midcentury silhouettes with contemporary materials and highly customisable frame and lens options.

“Many of our designs are inspired by silhouettes from the past,” Zack explains. “Take The PLOTZ [pictured, above], which references a classic 1950s hexagonal shape. It’s sophisticated but also a little artistic, especially when paired with fun tints and lenses. Details like striped metal skiving and titanium nose pads help modernise the frame and elevate the overall experience.”

Customisation remains a defining feature of

the MOSCOT experience.

“We also offer multiple sizes in many of our frames, including our iconic LEMTOSH, which comes in four sizes,” says Zack. “That level of fit is surprisingly uncommon in eyewear.”

“Customisation opens up endless creative possibilities,” he adds. “It’s a really enjoyable process to personalise your frames with different colours and lens tints.”

One growing trend is photochromic lenses, which darken in sunlight and lighten indoors.

“They used to be viewed as old-fashioned,” Zack says, “but now they’re becoming increasingly popular in cities like New York and London. We even have customers wearing photochromic lenses without a prescription purely as a fashion statement.”

MOSCOT’s first London Shop opened ten years

ago after Harvey was drawn to Soho’s rich musical and cultural heritage.

“I’ve played guitar for over 40 years,” he says. “Writing songs and playing music has always been a big part of my life. Zack plays too, and our London Shop manager is an incredible musician. We even have our own house band, The Classiconics.

“Soho’s musical history reminded me so much of the Lower East Side, and I knew it was the right place for our first MOSCOT Shop.”

“London and New York have a lot in common,” Zack adds. “The passion and craftsmanship you find among opticians in London is very similar to what we provide in New York. And from a style perspective, London reminds me of the Lower East Side — so many different walks of life, so many different expressions of fashion. The inspiration is endless.”

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Much of Zack’s design inspiration still comes directly from MOSCOT’s original neighbourhood.

“Even today, Harvey insists our offices remain less than a block from our historic flagship on the Lower East Side,” he says. “That connection to the neighbourhood — and to our customers and team – is incredibly important. It keeps us grounded and helps inform every design decision.”

That community focus extends well beyond product design. The MOSCOT Mobileyes Foundation provides free medical eyecare and eyewear to underserved communities, while Harvey founded MOSCOT Music to showcase local musicians and support arts education.

“Being in business for 111 years, we’ve witnessed a lot of world events,” Harvey says. “During the Great Depression and Second World War, my grandfather provided free glasses to people in need. During Covid-19, we donated 5,000 pairs of prescription eyewear to frontline healthcare workers.”

Looking ahead, Harvey is focused on growing MOSCOT while embracing new opportunities created by technology.

“Working with my son inspires me,” he says. “Zack has taught me a great deal about technology and how younger generations engage with brands. Understanding those digital touchpoints and finding new ways to connect with customers around the world has been a game changer.”

He still believes, however, that eyewear has untapped potential as a fashion category.

“We’re trying to figure out why it took so long for eyewear to become an essential accessory,” he says. “It’s the first thing people see when they look at you. You’ll get a haircut, buy a new pair of shoes – but wear the same glasses for three years. Does that make any sense?”

“Eyewear can transform your look more than almost any other accessory,” Zack agrees. “You can walk into a room wearing a bold acetate frame or a refined metal silhouette and communicate something completely different about yourself.”

“A pair of MOSCOT glasses can do more than change your look,” Harvey concludes. “They can change your outlook.”

A decade after opening its first international Shop, MOSCOT has relocated next door to 39 Beak Street, London. Now open, the larger space continues its legacy of timeless design, craftsmanship, and community. moscot.com

Hyman Moscot outside the MOSCOT shop at 94 Rivington Street, Lower East Side, New York, 1934

MOSCOT’s new London Shop at 39 Beak Street, Soho

FASHION

ALCHEMY

Can we maximise our impact through our wardrobe? Nieve Tierney tells us how to dress for the best version of ourselves

Words: Alexandra Wilby

Before you click ‘add to basket’ on your new season’s wardrobe, pause. Have you considered what energy you’re inviting into your life through the clothes you choose? Are you selecting pieces that reflect who you’re becoming – or simply snapping up the latest runway trends?

“The impact of the clothes you wear, in every room you enter, is part of how people interpret you and your energy,” explains Nieve Tierney, the in-demand reiki master at Soho House and author of The Fashion Oracle, published last year Nieve (pictured, with her book) calls this energetic approach to dressing ‘fashion alchemy’ – and it’s something we can all tap into to improve our lives and the outcomes of our interactions on a daily basis.

For example, we’ve long been told to ‘dress for the job you want, not the job you have’ – and history backs this up. Power dressing in the 1980s, with its razor-sharp shoulders and unapologetic silhouettes, helped women command new space in boardrooms. This is the premise of fashion alchemy. “We can sharpen our energy and how people react to us through our clothes; if we step into the energy we desire through what we wear, the world will respond to that,” says Nieve, who spent 15 years working in fashion before pivoting into energy healing.

“What I teach people to do is consciously change the charge of the energy we hold – this frequency that courses through every single one of us – through the clothes we wear,” she explains.

Nieve used to work with brands including Max Mara and Anya Hindmarch, jetting across Europe for collection previews and fashion weeks. “I absolutely loved it,” she reflects. “But I burnt out. More than once.”

Keen to sustain her lifestyle, she meditated, ate well, went to therapy and practised yoga – “but it wasn’t enough. I wasn’t hearing the inner whispers of the limits my body was trying to communicate. I wasn’t dialled in enough.”

Then, she discovered reiki. She committed to monthly sessions, feeling “depleted beforehand, but afterwards full of energy – like anything was possible. I was like: ‘Why doesn’t everyone know about this incredible healing modality?’”

During lockdown, Nieve trained, began treating friends and family, and her reputation grew organically. Soho House approached her about an event, which led to her residency – the most popular the brand has ever had, globally – and she now counts rockstars and elite athletes among her clientele.

GUIDED BY DESIGN

With her successful background in fashion and her expertise as an energy healer, she’s perfectly placed to pioneer fashion alchemy. So how does she apply it herself?

“When I’m getting ready, I’m thinking about how I want to feel,” she says. “I’m not worrying about what’s on trend –that’s herd mentality, that’s about not being seen. My focus is: ‘What energy do I want to step into today? Do I want to feel confident? In boss mode? Sexy?’ Then I allow my clothes to support that feeling.”

If she wants to protect her energy, she wears black – “It holds your energy in.” White, meanwhile, reflects energy outward. And the amount of colour she wears reflects how visible she’s willing to be. “If I think, ‘Today I don’t want all eyes on me’, I’ll camouflage into my surroundings – in London, that’s grey, black or camel. On days when I feel playful or joyful, I’ll be very colourful.”

So how can the rest of us tune into this?

“In my book The Fashion Oracle, you’re guided on how to shift your energy through your clothes by connecting with an archetype,” she says. The book includes 70 archetypes – including the Businesswoman (“find the right hero piece”), the Mermaid (“wear pearls to help find your voice”), the Empress (“embrace feminine frills and florals”) and the Warrior (“choose metallic accents such

as chains and zippers”).

“The book is used like an oracle deck – you ask a question, and the archetype will guide you on the colours and clothes to activate a change in your energy,” says Nieve, who was heavily inspired by legendary designer Coco Chanel when writing it.

“Coco Chanel was the starting point for this whole project. I’ve always been enamoured with her ability to transform a woman’s wardrobe – to give women power through their clothes. She tried to level the playing field between men and women, normalising trousers when it was radical to do so. She removed corsetry so women could move freely; she rebranded black from a colour of mourning to the height of elegance – just look at the power of the LBD [little black dress].”

But Chanel also tapped into subtle realms. “She was deeply into astrology, numerology and tarot. As a Leo, she wove lions into her buttons, a tarot deck was found in her office after she passed away, and she was obsessed with the number five – she often launched collections on the fifth day of the fifth month, and of course, her most famous fragrance was No.5. She was dialled into esoteric themes and purposefully wove them into her collections.”

If anyone understood fashion alchemy, it was Coco Chanel. “She knew that when you shift your energy, you become a match for different people – and entirely new experiences,” says Nieve.

In other words, your wardrobe isn’t just expressing who you are, it’s shaping who you’ll become next. Fashion alchemy isn’t about buying more; it’s about choosing differently, and with intention. Align your wardrobe with who you’re becoming, and your clothes can become an energetic catalyst for your next chapter.

‘The Fashion Oracle: An Occult Guide to What to Wear Inspired by Chanel’, published by Welbeck. nievetierney.com

ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS | SUMMER EXHIBITION

The Royal Academy of Arts’ unmissable Summer Exhibition is back at the gallery’s Burlington House space, celebrating the very best of British and international art and architecture.

The mixed-media exhibition puts creativity in the frame, with drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, architecture and film and digital art all sharing space. Artworks by emerging artists and household names are showcased sideby-side with art by the public, Royal Academy members and the occasional celebrity.

Co-ordinated by artist and Royal Academy member Ryan Gander OBE, the exhibition will explore the theme Interconnectedness.

“It will aim to explore ideas of entanglement, as well as the unexpected and fortuitous connections and associations between disparate things, no matter how abstract or illogical. Proof that, as humans, our outputs hold more commonality than separation, without us intentionally seeking it,” he says.

“The curatorial approach will be to mix all media without discrimination; architecture, print, painting and sculpture will be integrated throughout the show, creating conversations with each other rather than being confined to their own spaces. I am hoping

this will remind us that historically great artwork is cognitive first and retinal second.”

Further boosting the sense of conversations, the RA will be introducing late opening on Saturdays, with an in-gallery gin bar open from Thursday to Sunday, ensuring that the exhibition remains a social moment, as much as a cultural reflection. »

Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Piccadilly. 16 June - 23 August 2026. royalacademy.org.uk

Gallery view of the Summer Exhibition 2025, at the Royal Academy of Arts, London, 17 June - 17 August 2025

SERPENTINE GALLERIES | THE PAVILION & DAVID HOCKNEY

The Serpentine’s annual architectural commission returns to the art venue’s South Gallery this June, with a dramatic experimental structure by Lanza Atelier (opposite) – the studio founded by Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo. The duo, based in Mexico City, have taken inspiration from English gardens and the traditional serpentine (or crinkle-crankle) wall, an architectural feature which creates stability from its curved shape. A translucent roof allows light and air into the pavilion to create an indoor-outdoor space that is one with the trees that surround it – a “rhythmic repetition of brick columns” transforms the wall from opaque to permeable. Lanza Atelier chose brick for their primary material, referencing the similar brick façade of the South Gallery.

Just six-minutes’ walk along the Serpentine lake, the North Gallery invites visitors to explore the work of one of the most famous contemporary artists: David Hockney. The artist’s first exhibition at the Serpentine Galleries, David Hockney: A Year in Normandie and Some Other Thoughts about Painting features specially created artworks and new paintings that celebrate the extraordinary within the everyday.

Central to the exhibition is Hockney’s panoramic frieze A Year in Normandie – displayed here in London for the first time – which was inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry and depicts the changing seasons at the artist’s French studio.

Serpentine Pavilion, South Gallery, Kensington Gardens, ends 25 October 2026. David Hockney: A Year in Normandie and Some Other Thoughts about Painting, Serpentine North Gallery, West Carriage Drive, ends 23 August 2026. serpentinegalleries.org

SAATCHI GALLERY | THE SUN AND THE MOON

A major new exhibition The Sun and The Moon: Art Inspired by the Celestial brings a multitude of artists together to celebrate the skies, across two floors of Saatchi Gallery. Artworks and installation by established artists including David Shrigley and Paula Rego, as well as emerging talent and archival material, take visitors from day to night in nine ‘chapters’.

Explore mythology in Dawn, and seasons and rituals in Sun Rising; Zenith showcases how artists respond to the sun and the body, while Setting Sun focuses on transformation. At the halfway point, Luke Jerram’s installation Helios (above) is a monumental reproduction of the sun in a double-height gallery, incorporating a collage of more than 400,000 photographs of the surface of the sun.

The second half of the exhibition turns to the moon, beginning with Evening, with Saad Qureshi’s large-scale suspended split moon. Walking on the Moon focuses on the cultural impact of the Apollo space missions, and features the collaborative work Moon Landing by Margo Selby and composer Helen Caddick. Midnight turns to the mystical, examining the moon’s long association with folklore and magic.

Concluding the exhibition, Darkest Hours presents an immersive installation that envelops viewers with spheres of light. Titled Massless Suns and Dark Suns and Massless Sun and Surface of the Sky, the installation is by internationally renowned artists teamLab. »

Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road. The Sun and the Moon: Art Inspired by the Celestial, ends 8 September 2026. saatchigallery.com

THE HOUSE OF FINE ART | MAJA PETRIĆ & ZHUANG HONG-YI

For contemporary artist showcases and new media art, The House of Fine Art has long specialised in presenting “exceptional talent and cultural relevance”. The gallery’s summer exhibitions include Lumen Prize-winning Maja Petrić’s, whose solo showcase The Glitched Sublime uses cutting-edge technology to render environmental change in artistic form. The Croatian American artist’s custom-built system tracks environmental conditions in regions where Arctic poppies bloom; when the conditions exceed the limits of their survival, the system activates, translating real-time data into physical form. The results, whether sculpture or canvas, are live interaction between data and material. Colour, intensity and rhythm all shift with the environmental systems, highlighting the fragility of nature.

In July, the gallery welcomes the optimistic outlook of renowned Chinese contemporary artist Zhuang Hong-yi in his solo exhibition Tides of Folded Light. With bold colour schemes and sophisticated floral motifs, Zhuang pushes the experimental nature of his recognisable style to the limit in these refined, carefully orchestrated works.

“Everywhere around the world, flowers represent peace, happiness and prosperity,” says the artist. “We might not all speak the same language, but we can all read flowers.”

Zhuang combines traditional Chinese techniques with contemporary craftsmanship, from rice paper folding, ink painting, calligraphy with acrylics, mixed media and even digital elements. His interactive installations invite viewers to step inside of the works, just as his accompanying narratives provide artistic insight to his inspirations and deepen the story of each piece.

Zhuang’s work, says HOFA, suggests that: “Tradition and innovation are not opposing forces, but rather complementary elements that know no boundaries and transcend all limitations”.

HOFA Gallery, 11 Bruton St. ‘Zhuang Hong-yi: Tides of Folded Light’, 2-30 July 2026. thehouseoffineart.com

Everywhere around the world, flowers represent peace, happiness and prosperity. We might not all speak the same language, but we can all read flowers

— Zhuang Hong-yi

TATE MODERN | TRACEY EMIN & FRIDA KAHLO

Two mighty women dominate the Tate Modern’s summer exhibitions. Dame Tracey Emin’s landmark exhibition A Second Life traces 40 years of the contemporary artist’s groundbreaking work through 90 pieces, bringing together her painting, video, textiles, neons, sculpture and installations. From challenging, career-defining works – such as her Turner Prize nominated My Bed (1998) – to never-before-exhibited works, Emin’s work evokes passion, pain and healing, with the body as a conduit. New photography documents her recovery from bladder cancer surgery, while sculptural works celebrate her new relationship with her body.

“Emin’s disregard for any separation of the personal and the public, along with her commitment to unapologetic self-expression, came to define a historic moment in British culture and global art history,” says the Tate.

From one artistic powerhouse to another, Frida: The Making of an Icon charts the extraordinary story of how revolutionary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) rose to become a cultural phenomenon. Launching in June, the exhibition tracks Kahlo’s many selves through 30 of her most influential works – the dedicated wife, the intellectual, the modern artist, the gender-critical, and the political activist.

Treasured garments, jewellery, photographs and memorabilia complete the picture of her life, while more than 200 work by her contemporaries and artists she has inspired since show the phenomenal influence that she continues to exert on contemporary art. Finally, the show explores how Kahlo’s work and impact has led to global ‘Fridamania’ –the exhibit houses more than 200 commercial object that use her art, style and legend.

A bespoke menu by Santiago Lasta – founder of Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant Kol – has also been created for the exhibition, and visitors can enjoy cocktails, lunch or dinner after the exhibition.

Tate Modern, Bankside. Tracey Emin: A Second Life, ends 31 August 2026. Frida: The Making of an Icon, ends 3 January 2027. tate.org.uk

Modern masters: HOFA gallery introduces showcases by Zhuang Hong-yi (above left, his 2025 Eternal Bloom exhibition) and Maja Petrić (2025 Scorpios, far left); Tate Modern hosts two major restrospectives of Tracey Emin (My Bed, 1998, left) and Frida Kahlo (Self Portrait With Velvet Dress, above)

WORLD IN COLOUR

Hotel design doyenne Kit Kemp MBE looks back on a career of creating joyful spaces – and her mission to ban the beige

Words: Susan Springate

It’s 40 years since Kit Kemp MBE and her husband Tim founded Firmdale Hotels and ignited a revolution in hotel design with their joyful use of colour, pattern, and craft. From Ham Yard in London to The Whitby and Warren Street Hotel in New York, Kit became known for her vibrant and eclectic spaces, inspiring a new generation of designers and hoteliers.

“I’m endlessly fascinated by the power of interior design to lift the spirit,” says the renowned creative director of her eponymous Kit Kemp Design Studio. “I’m thrilled to see bolder, more characterful spaces bursting with pattern and colour replacing the beige interiors of the past.”

With a design empire that spans homeware, interiors and hotels in Britain and America, Kit (above) finds immense joy in collaboration, be that working with her family – her two daughters, Minnie and Willow, are also part of the team – or the artists and artisans who form a core part of the creative process.

Here, Kit looks back on four decades of design, the secrets of working with her family, and what we can learn from truly great hotel design.

How do you look back on your four decades in the industry?

In the beginning, we were fuelled by the naivety

of youth. We simply went for it, accidentally becoming pioneers. That instinct to trust our gut, combined with hard work and a love of what we do, has carried us through. There have been some real pinch-me moments of pride, like the ‘topping out’ ceremony at Warren Street Hotel, when, with sweeping views of the New York skyline, the final beam was lowered into place on our third New York hotel. But it’s often the quieter, unexpected moments that mean the most to me, like overhearing a guest describe a memorable experience at one of our hotels.

What have been the major shifts in design since you started?

When we started, hotels were formal and homogeneous; there was little soul or character, and you could wake up not really knowing where you were. Today’s guests crave authenticity. They want to feel a genuine sense of place and personality, and they value experiences over spectacle. Comfort, warmth and individuality matter far more now than rigid ideas of luxury ever did.

When people travel, they want their hotel to be part of the journey. Our hotels aren’t just for travellers. We offer far more than a room for the night; it’s about the entire experience,

from the person greeting you at the door to the range of unique, and sometimes delightfully quirky, creative workshops and events we host. Our hotels are for locals too. You know you’ve been embraced by a community when you see regulars lingering in the restaurants or popping in for coffee and one of our irresistible cookies. It’s all about designing spaces people can’t wait to return to.

Is there a secret to having a successful business with your spouse?

Tim and I have been working together for 40 years now, which likely reflects both our sense of humour and the fact that we have separate offices! Working with a spouse will only endure if you share both a long-term vision and a love of what you do. You need to believe in each other, know your strengths and play into them. We have very different areas of expertise which means we lead different areas of the business, but can come together with a single mindedness on the big decisions.

And what is it like working with your daughters, Willow and Minnie?

Very much like Tim and I, Willow and Minnie bring different skills. They each contribute »

‘Luxury’ is entirely overused. It’s not something I consider when designing

unique voices and original, diverse skill sets. Minnie heads up residential design; she has just completed a new-build near Monaco for longterm clients and is a highly creative, instinctive interior designer. Willow brings architectural thinking, detailed product design expertise, and a deep passion for art.

What inspires you?

Being interested, curious, paying attention. Ideas, colour combinations, forms, and feelings all inspire. Designing a room should be a joyful adventure. The spark, that moment of inspiration that captures the imagination can come from anywhere and everywhere. It could be the patination on a ceramic, the embroidery on a vintage textile, or a favourite artist, whatever the starting point, the joy is in bringing that spark to life.

You’re a life-long collector. What are your most treasured items?

I love the power of collections. You will find all sorts of collections displayed in our projects. The old adage that there is power in numbers is absolutely true; objects of the same kind, collected and displayed together, create something significant and meaningful. It’s not about collecting things that are fancy or expensive. I have collected everything from ceramics, beaded bags and antique keys to silk embroidery threads and bowling shoes,

before creatively framing or encasing them in contemporary Perspex and installing them to create impactful design details.

How do you approach each project?

When designing our townhouse hotels, we utilise the architectural and historical elements of each site to create spaces that make guests feel like local residents. For example, at Dorset Square Hotel you will discover charming nods to its rich cricketing heritage, or at our Charlotte Street Hotel in Bloomsbury, we pay tribute to the Bloomsbury Set and the way those artists and creatives blurred boundaries between art, craft, and life. It’s not about a replica or overt display; it’s about subtle references to the site that allow you to tell stories and make a space feel like home. Sometimes we want the starting point to be an antidote to the sense of place. The Whitby Hotel is in New York’s Midtown, which can feel a little too serious, so we wanted to create a breath of fresh air, somewhere bursting with colour and wit.

You have homes in London, the New Forest, and Barbados. Where do you feel most at home?

Our London home allows us to be close to work, but our home in the New Forest is where my children grew up, and is truly home to me. I head home every Friday afternoon. There is something special about being greeted at

Bold and eclectic: Kit Kemp’s bright designs have transformed spaces including Charlotte Street Hotel, London (centre). In New York, the Orangery at the Crosby Street Hotel (previous), The Whitby Hotel (far left) and Warren Street Hotel (below) have all received her colourful touch.

the door by my dogs with their tails wagging that signals calm, joy and relaxation. There is a slower pace, the space to reconnect to nature and the changing seasons, and it’s where I feel most free.

Luxury is a much over-used word. What does it signify for you?

‘Luxury’ is entirely overused. It’s not something I consider when designing, I’d much rather focus on the core of our aesthetic: Colour, craft, character, comfort and curation. By only focusing on luxury, you’ll end up with a homogenous, impersonal and forgettable space. I want to create inviting interiors that that tell a story, that welcome you in and

capture your imagination.

What is coming up for you this year?

We launch our second collection with GP & J Baker at London Design Week [in March], and my new book Design Stories (published by Rizzoli on 3 March) has been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our work and share the stories behind it. We are currently working with Treasure House on a series of spaces, and have a new townhouse hotel in Bloomsbury on the horizon. There’s always something new to createthat’s what keeps it exciting.

kitkemp.com

MOMENTS IN TIME

The 2026 Watches and Wonders fair in Geneva was a showcase of groundbreaking horological advancements, showstopping creations and exceptional timepieces

Words: Shivani Dubey

Watches and Wonders is, by all accounts, the most exciting event in the horological calendar. The world’s leading watchmakers and horological masters gather in Geneva each year for a trade show like no other. The 2026 edition saw the highly anticipated attendance of Audemars Piguet, marking the first time the brand has joined a large-scale convention since 2019, as the watchmaker celebrated its 150th anniversary with a range of bold new novelties. Returning brands including Cartier, Rolex, Ulysse Nardin, Vacheron Constantin and more showcased their own groundbreaking advancements and unmatchable savoir-faire.

Among the technical advances showcased this year, Zenith introduced its most exclusive interpretation to date with the 20-piece GFJ Tantalum. In this new execution, the watch’s calibre 135 is housed within a new material, tantalum, a metal defined by its density and restraint. Its hardness and weight require specialised tools, slow tolerances and meticulous finishing, making it one of the most demanding tools in modern watchmaking.

Among Rolex’s stunning 2026 releases – which included bold anniversary editions of the Oyster range – was the technically brilliant YachtMaster II. Sleek and contemporary in design, this nautical chronograph features a high-tech countdown function specifically designed for sailors during the critical start sequence

of regatta races. Programme the countdown with ease via the lower pusher and watch as the seconds hand races counterclockwise for unerring legibility and racing style.

Another mind-blowing innovation came from Ulysse Nardin’s Super Freak, the most complex time-only watch ever created, housing the world’s first automatic double tourbillon.

Powered by the brand’s patented Grinder system, the watch features an entirely new calibre, the UN-252, composed of no fewer than 511 components: the UN-252.

Meanwhile, sporting collaborations were front and centre for TAG Heuer, which launched the new Monaco Chronograph and Evergraph watches, further cementing its place in motorsport history. Gerald Charles, too, highlighted its connection with the world of tennis with the release of its Maestro 3.0 Chronograph Clay, inspired by red clay tennis court.

As always, jewellery watches continued to bridge the gap between high jewellery and haute horology, with Piaget, Chopard and Chanel each releasing sparkling expressions of timepieces that can be worn on the wrist or as other forms of jewellery. Piaget’s Swinging Pebbles pendant watches are carved from ornamental stones and suspended from gold chains, while Bulgari’s everrecognisable Serpenti collection introduced a bold, rock ’n’ roll fine jewellery collection. For pocket watch aficionados, the Slim d’Hermès Pocket Roaaaaar! features a roaring lion in wood

marquetry and an enamel dial.

In terms of bold design, a range of watches drew our attention for their striking shapes and sense of fun. Cartier revived its distinctive barrel-shaped Roadster de Cartier and also presented a half-sculpture-half-watch in the form of Myst de Cartier, which comes in yellow gold with black lacquer and in white gold fully set with diamonds. Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced its Vallée des Merveilles collection, comprising three new editions in the Reverso One series paying homage to the tropical abundance of Kauai, Hawaii – known as Nature’s Garden – and the delicate flora of Hokkaido, Japan. Vacheron Constantin released an update to the asymmetric Historiques American 1921, its clean dial set at a jaunty 45-degrees for ultimate legibility.

Blending métiers d’art and technical excellence, Van Cleef & Arpels’ Midnight Jour Nuit Phase de Lune combines a revolving jour/ nuit display and an artistic moonphase aperture, both housed on a rotating disc that takes sun and moon across a guilloché sky. Watch the day pass on demand at the click of a pusher – pure astronomical poetry.

If these innovations are anything to go by, this year proved that watchmaking isn’t just about honouring traditions, but also about actively shattering the boundaries of the craft, leaving us wanting more each and every time.

watchesandwonders.com

About time: The making of the Ulysse Nardin Super Freak (main). Above (l-r): Marquetry techniques for the Slim d’Hermès Pocket Roaaaaar! (©DavidMarchon), the new Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921, Piaget’s Swinging Pebbles sautoirs

COSMIC BEAUTY

Roger Dubuis reaches for the stars with the new sporty and sophisticated Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar

Since its launch in 2005, the Excalibur collection by Roger Dubuis has embodied the expressive watchmaking masters’ signature blend of mechanical innovation and exceptional aesthetics designed to exceed all expectations. Debuted at this year’s Watches and Wonders fair in Geneva, the latest expression in the iconic collection – the new Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar (pictured) – looks to the magic of the cosmos to continue this legacy with an elegantly sporty design.

Drawing inspiration from the movements of the sky and the stellar observations that have shaped humanity’s understanding of time and space, Roger Dubuis delivered a collection of novelties that pay tribute to the movement and beauty found beyond the earth, with precise calendars and horological displays among the collection. Among the Maison’s latest creations, the Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar stands as one of the most representative expressions of this balance between cosmic inspiration and technical brilliance.

To the eye, seven levels of Roger Dubuis’ signature multi-layered dial are enhanced by the compelling “Cosmic Blue” layer, a new colour for the Maison that was inspired by the moment the sky darkens from the bright blue of daytime to the lustrous navy of night. Visually impactful and powerful, the timepiece continues this motif of changing light with its 316L stainless steel 40mm case and bracelet – both finished through techniques including polishing, shot-blasting and satin-brushing to create contrasting textures and reflective surfaces.

The true star of the calendar is its bold and chic biretrograde day/date display, originally designed and patented by watchmaker Roger Dubuis in 1989. Working with JeanMarc Wiederrecht, Mr Dubuis rethought the traditional retrograde mechanism from a watchmaking perspective, streamlining the complication to simplify construction and enhance both beauty and performance.

Two key technical innovations elevated the new mechanism: the use of spiral springs, positioned directly on the hand pinions, and a redesigned cam. This novelty continues to utilise this choreography of visual and technical design, with angled skeletonised hands for day and date – positioned in sweeping space-age curves at three and nine o’clock, respectively.

The hour and minute hands are presented in white gold, with sun-brushed ecliptic counters with a rhodium coating marking the hours. At six o’clock, a small seconds display, presented in the same stunning blue, adds another subtle

point of movement and energy to the complex but clearly defined display.

Inside the superb timepiece, the Biretrograde Calendar complication is powered by the inhouse RD840 calibre, an automatic movement delivering a 60-hour power reserve. Although the dial is closed, Roger Dubuis would never deny the wearer the chance to see the beauty of the watchmaking itself: through the sapphire caseback, one can view the Poinçon de Genève certified mechanics, including the sculpted oscillating weight at the heart of this calibre, reinterpreted for 2026 from the Maison’s original 1996 design. The calibre is handdecorated with 14 techniques including wheelbevelling, burnisher-bevelling, frosting, circular graining, Côtes de Genève, truing, internal drawing, external drawing, rounding, perlage, tip polishing, mirror polishing, tooth polishing, and rounded tooth polishing. The watch is also presented with an additional blue rubber strap, completed with a triple folding clasp in stainless steel, for an ultra-sporty expression.

Inspired by the Maison’s namesake founder, Roger Dubuis continues his legacy of high watchmaking that combines complexity with clarity, technical achievement with a sense of playfulness. The Maison’s 2026 collection exemplifies this, with the exploration of time, space and mythical beauty present throughout this year’s novelties. And, at the collection’s centre, the Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar is not just a precise horological machine, it is a timepiece bursting with motion and beauty captured from the stars.

rogerdubuis.com

FEMININE

Rising

As a cultural shift, the Feminine Rising phenomenon isn’t about women versus men, as Mary Portas OBE explains. Here, she talks about how intuition, soft power and compassion are reshaping business, politics and culture

Words: Lysanne Currie

Mary Portas OBE tells a story about the time she toured her 2018 book Work Like a Woman at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. That day, she found herself speaking to a room in which a third of the audience were men. At the end of the speech, a burly Scottish building contractor approached her for a signing – with some ten copies of her book in hand.

“I run a building company and I’ve bought these for my lads,” he told her. “I was thinking, ‘Should I put different covers on them, so they’d be more comfortable reading a book called Work Like a Woman?’ And then I thought, ‘No. This is what we all need.’”

It’s a great anecdote – and it speaks volumes. Mary (aka the high street tsar known as the Queen of Shops) says that

most men “want to be open, to feel – and to really connect with their feminine side”.

That urge lies at the core of a concept now widely referred to as Feminine Rising: emphatically not about women versus men, but about bringing more so-called female energy into the way the world is led, designed and run.

It has been described as a cultural shift that values intuition, empathy, emotional honesty, collaboration and care; qualities traditionally coded as ‘feminine’ – yet crucial to any sustainable system of living.

This isn’t a binary correction to ‘masculinity’, not ‘anti-men’, but a rebalancing: as Mary puts it, about moving away from patriarchal societies defined by “domination and extraction, created for male power and male energy”. »

Soft power is real, it’s very sexy, and it’s going to keep coming

BREAKING THE CYCLE

If women once thought the way to succeed in business was to ‘lean in’ to this kind of ‘alpha’ energy – in other words, to emulate a more aggressive leadership style – it’s clear, argues Mary, that the system’s visibly broken.

“I’ve heard it said that the bird of humanity is flying around in circles, growing more muscular because it’s only ever flown on the ‘male’ wing,” she says. “It’s going round and round, getting angrier, making the same mistakes.”

Feminine Rising, then, is about letting the other wing, the receptive, relational, intuitive, care oriented one, come into play.

“I think we’re going to circle back to the things we can actually impact,” she says. “First and foremost, to our own daily lives, as individuals and as a society… [but] with care, connection, and community.”

Increasingly, Mary says, she sees this shift already underway. “We’re seeing people using words like love and kindness in leadership for the first time.”

While there’s no single formal movement called Feminine Rising, its ideas have landed in the business world, too: in “post-heroic leadership”, or “empathic leadership” and management styles.

New Zealand’s former prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, was something of a shield bearer: a leader who governed with kindness yet, nevertheless, operated within a results driven structure.

And research suggests such attributes have indeed led to higher-performing teams. New York Times bestseller The Athena Doctrine, by John Gerzema and Michael D’Antonio, for example, argues that the organisations thriving today are led with empathy and inclusion, not just strict hierarchy and control.

KINDNESS ECONOMY

Indeed, Mary’s own Work Like a Woman pre-empted the wave, reframing empathy, vulnerability and collaboration as core commercial advantages. In it, she calls for the end of ego-driven cultures and more humane organisational systems instead.

“Think of it as Michelle Obama versus Lady Macbeth,” she says, suggesting attorney, nonprofit executive and former US First Lady is a good example of humane but results-focused leadership. Now Mary talks of writing a followup “women’s bible… for every woman at every stage of her life”.

“It’ll say, we’re not broken. We just weren’t built for the systems we’ve been placed into,” she says. “So now we build back differently.”

It’s an attitude exemplified by her 2025 memoir I Shop, Therefore I Am, which may look back at her career – from transforming Harvey Nichols into a cutting-edge luxury destination in the 1990s, consulting for LMVH and launching her television career with Mary Queen of Shops – but is also explicitly future driven. In it, she describes the 1990s as a “beautifully innovative” decade where creativity, risk and imagination were the engine of commerce – and she believes that same energy is needed now, for what she calls “post-consumerism”, a rebuilt, healthier planet and society. It’s clear that the creativity

Leading with kindness:

Mary Portas looks back on her career in her new book I Shop, Therefore I Am (left, at last year’s Wimbledon BookFest), including her iconic transformation of London’s Harvey Nichols department store in the early 1990s (opposite)

she celebrates lives in the same sphere as Feminine Rising: ideas guided as much by imagination and morality as by profit.

Mary is adamant that the new model, which she describes as the ‘Kindness Economy’ must be led with “soft power” more than brute force. “Soft power is real, it’s very sexy, and it’s going to keep coming.”

She’s also clear that many men are already modelling such leadership. “[The late Body Shop founder] Anita Roddick once said to me, ‘I always choose the guys I work with based on this: whenever I go around to the family home, they’re the ones at the sink, washing up. Then I know they can be strong in business and not led by their egos. I don’t want any of that.’ I love that, because it’s so true.”

And for Mary, one of the clearest examples of Feminine Rising in action comes from a man: the US-born rock climber and environmentalist Yvon Chouinard, who in 2022 donated his multibillion-dollar outdoor clothing business Patagonia to a trust and non-profit, in order to protect the planet. “His only shareholder is Mother Earth. That’s the divine feminine in action, right?”

‘I Shop, Therefore I am’ by Mary Portas is out now in hardback, and in paperback on 10 September (Canongate). bookshop.org

ROLL WITH IT

From Riviera yachts to private members’ clubs in Mayfair, a 5,000-year-old game is having another roll of the dice – and this time, backgammon is proving hugely popular with CEOs, too…

Words: Lysanne Currie

This August in London a week-long tournament will take place at Earl’s Court, dedicated to one of the world’s oldest and most enduring games. While international grandmasters test their nerve at the World Backgammon Federation (WBGF) World Team Championships an audience of hedge-fund partners, tech founders and CEOs will be looking on. These global executives aren’t just drawn to the drama of the game; they know mastering backgammon – or even just watching the experts – can help sharpen their strategic skills, too.

“Backgammon is, um, back,” declared The Times last year. And it’s no longer a game solely for nicotine-stained gamblers in gentlemen’s clubs, tossing their dice through plumes of cigar smoke.

Luxury comms CEO Lysbeth Fox grew up playing the game and today competes in tournaments. “The days when the game was lorded over by the likes of Jimmy Goldsmith or John Aspinall are over,” she says. “I was at a tournament last week and it was mostly women.” Fox credits global initiative Women’s World of Backgammon with helping elevate visibility and supporting women: “Whether they’re picking up a board for the first time or playing competitively. Cigars and smoking jackets are no longer required.”

Today, the game is also reaching a younger global audience thanks to mobile apps and online tournaments, helping propel the market towards a projected value of $145m (£108m) by 2030. Much like vinyl records, mechanical watches, fountain pens and leather-bound notebooks, backgammon’s rebirth could be seen as part of the broader analogue revival.

RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW

Backgammon’s roots stretch back nearly 5,000 years. The modern form emerged in 17th century England, where it was embraced by both royalty and rogues. By the 18th century, it was a staple of London’s private members’ clubs, Parisian salons and Ottoman coffeehouses. In Turkey, the game remains part of the fabric of everyday life.

By the 20th century, backgammon had become a byword for glamour and the jet-set.

Actor Omar Sharif – himself a world-class player – helped elevate its profile, as did 1983 film Octopussy, where James Bond coolly reverses his rival’s loaded dice with the immortal line: “It’s all in the wrist”.

Today, the game’s inbuilt element of risk has also prompted leadership coaches to use it as a tool to hone strategic thinking and calculated risk-taking. As one player in a recent Financial Times article on New York’s backgammon tribes puts it: “Backgammon is more like real life [than chess], especially to investor types: there’s risk and reward – and there’s equity.”

At Davos in 2024, PR king Matthew Freud was reportedly seen playing against magician David Blaine – while former chancellor of the exchequer George Osborne watched on. Last summer, Victoria and Romeo Beckham were photographed on a yacht playing with a £14,000 Louis Vuitton set. Demand for immaculately crafted backgammon boards has soared: designer Alexandra Llewellyn, who played as a child in Cairo with her step-grandfather, produces boards in mother-of-pearl and calf leather costing between $8,000-$30,000

(£6,000-£22,000); clients include supermodel Elle Macpherson and Sir Richard Branson.

The legendary Jamaica Inn in the Caribbean now runs a residency (complete with DJ sets and tournaments) with Backgammon and Wax – the London collective founded by Bafta-winning artist/writer Doc Brown.

“Long before backgammon became cool again, guests were playing rounds on the verandas with a rum punch,” says Olivia Morrow, owner of Jamaica Inn, at a recent pop up between the two in London’s Mount St Restaurant’s Games Room. “However, in the last few years, younger guests started asking for boards to play under palapas on the beach. It definitely feels like the game is having a cultural comeback.”

Other hospitality venues have recognised the game’s growing cachet. At boutique Austrian Alpine hideaway Eriro, high-net-worth guests spend afternoons playing backgammon. It’s no surprise to manager Henning Schuab, who says its allure neatly mirrors the hotel’s non-digital philosophy. “Playing requires presence, time, focus and endurance,” he notes.

Back in London, South Kensington private members’ club The Other House runs tournaments where executives drift in after work to play, watch, and network. As Olivia sums up: “There’s something incredibly chic about a game that has existed for thousands of years still bringing people together.”

The WBGF World Team Championship takes place 24-26 August at Earl’s Court, London. wbgf.info; backgammonandwax.com

Ancient history: Jamaica Inn in the Caribbean now runs a residency with Bafta-winning Doc Brown’s Backgammon and Wax (©Lily Craigen)

SKINCARE SECRETS

Beauty is no longer just skin deep, as these all-star treatments prove. Dr David Jack guides us through the science behind his gamechanging treatments and shares his three-step routine for healthy, happy skin

Words: Michelle johnson

“My approach to skin has always been grounded in optimising the physiology of the skin with a very rational approach,” says Dr David Jack (above). A former NHS surgeon specialising in plastic surgery and burns, who launched his eponymous skincare brand in 2018, Dr Jack’s aim was clear: to create a clinically led system to support skin health.

“If you start from a biological basis – tackling the negative factors influencing the skin and supporting the good repair mechanisms – the aesthetic outcome tends to follow naturally,” he says. “I am far more interested in strengthening barrier integrity, collagen production and pigment stability than in chasing trends or layering excessive products from a commercial sense.”

In addition to his flagship Harley Street clinic, Dr Jack has London clinics in Belgravia, the City (at the Royal Exchange, pictured), Liberty department store, and in Edinburgh. Offerings at all clinics include laser and technology-led treatments, aesthetic injectables, and clinically-led facials – including his new PDRN Salmon Sperm Reset Facial.

“This is a treatment that incorporates purified polydeoxyribonucleotides [PDRN] derived from salmon DNA,” he says. “These have been studied in wound healing, and the treatment is particularly useful in stressed or depleted skin.”

Despite the rather visceral name, PDRN Salmon Sperm is a remarkable activator for skin health,

used in medical contexts such as tissue repair. “Its relevance in aesthetics lies in its role as a cellular signalling molecule,” explains Dr Jack. “These bind to adenosine receptors in the skin and can promote angiogenesis (better blood supply), support collagen synthesis (thicker, more resilient skin) and reduce inflammation (reduced redness).”

Another new treatment is The Mindful Facial, which combines gentle but intensely moisturising skin treatment with guided hypnotherapy by clinical practitioner Malminder Gill.

“There is increasing evidence linking chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels to impaired barrier function and accelerated collagen breakdown,” Dr Jack says. “Many patients present with flare-ups of rosacea, eczema or inflammatory acne during periods of high stress. By incorporating guided hypnotherapy into the facial, we aim to reduce sympathetic nervous system activation during the treatment itself, allowing us to somewhat address the psychological stress that we so often see affecting this skin.”

INTELLIGENT INTERVENTION

When it comes to daily routines, Dr Jack’s range of effective and utterly pampering at-home skincare follow the same clinically-led principles. “The difference lies in delivery and intensity: at-home products must be safe, stable and tolerable for repeated use,” he says.

“Nobody needs a 12-step routine,” he says, adding that many in-clinic skin problems are exacerbated by at-home over-treatment (such as over-exfoliation) and poorly combined active ingredients. “Intelligent intervention with minimal fuss is the key for skincare products, both from a dermatological point of view and in relation to sustainability.”

Dr Jack’s skincare focus on daily care, with products such as the Skin Cushion recovery cream, Blue Face Peel, and Daily Skin Trio – an antioxidant serum, SPF daily moisturiser and retinoid-powered overnight cream – forming the basis for a simple but effective routine.

“Healthy skin is typically well-hydrated, evenly pigmented and structurally sound,” he says, adding that the clinical evidence identifies a few core categories of ingredients. “An antioxidant such as vitamin C in the morning helps mitigate oxidative stress and supports collagen synthesis. Daily SPF is non-negotiable, particularly in preventing photodamage and pigment irregularity. A retinoid in the evening remains one of the most evidence-based tools for stimulating cell turnover and improving dermal quality.”

Alongside this, he recommends a weekly controlled exfoliation supported by barrier repair. “When done consistently, these simple foundations provide the majority of visible improvement.”

drdavidjack.com

SKIN SCIENCE

The pioneering treatments, products and supplements putting skin health centre stage

INORA SHANE COOPER SKIN

SUPPLEMENT / WELLBEING / LONGEVITY

BIOTECHNOLOGY / BESPOKE / TREATMENTS

While this science-backed liquid supplement (left and above) might not strictly be focused on skincare, its impact on healthy skin is hard to ignore. Inora offers a range of highly absorbable, flexible and scientific supplements that are doctor-formulated to target a range of issues – including energy (Wake Up Call), better sleep (Was it all a Dream) and longevity (Marathon Not a Sprint). The latter combines NAD+ precursor support, lion’s mane and antioxidants to target cognitive wellbeing and healthy ageing – these ingredients also just so happen to promote collagen formation, and users report healthier skin and hair as a result. Beauty from within, indeed.

inorahealth.com

Shane Cooper is known for his discreet, personalised, technologyforward approach to skincare (above), leaving his customers –including actresses Sienna Miller and Hannah Waddingham – looking and feeling fresh. Shane’s range of treatments target specific issues from top to toe, from biohacking body works to aqua facials. His new exosome skin treatment, available at his South Kensington boutique, combines gentle microneedling with cutting-edge E50 exosome technology – developed through Korean stem cell science – designed to repair, hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. His luxurious at-home products – including the indulgent Oxygenation Mask – are equally impressive. This is where beauty meets biotechnology. »

shanecooperskin.com

METHOD 01

METHOD 02

HYDRATION / CELLULAR COSMETICS / SKINCARE WELLNESS / TAILORED / INNOVATION

The Swiss skincare brand (above) is synonymous with ice-cool hydration, harnessing the power of Swiss cellular cosmetics to support regeneration and deliver effective results, and its skin consultations are renowned for good reason. Key to Valmont’s outlook is using a biomimetic approach to create products that suit its users’ lifestyles – its l’Elixir des Glaciers collections – Swiss Poly-active, Essence of Bees and Essence of Gold Sturgeon – present plumping, firming and hydrating at-home treatments for any preference. For a more intensive infusion of Swiss glacier goodness, head to Whiteroom Beauty, Knightsbridge, Trikwan Aesthetics in Harley Street and Mayfair, or Akasha Holistic Wellbeing at Hotel Café Royal, Piccadilly, for a spa experience you won’t regret.

valmont.com

Marylebone’s exclusive and celebrated wellness and longevity centre The HVN (above and main) specialises in non-invasive mind and body treatments that focus on targetting key issues while minimising downtime. Combine Glass Skin and Oxygen Infusion facials with wellness sessions including acupuncture or bodysculpting massages to look and feel thoroughly refreshed. With treatments designed to target concerns such as rosacea and acne scarring, ageing and sun damage, burns and scarring, or even poor sleep and burnout, The HVN offers a safe pair of hands to relax into, no matter the reason for your visit. Is this a haven or simply heaven? You decide.

the-hvn.com

METHOD

The jewellery that marks a lifetime

Baker Brothers Jewellers shares the sparkling detail behind every perfect proposal

From the excitement of a proposal to the elegance of a wedding day, jewellery plays a defining role in life’s most meaningful celebrations. These are pieces chosen not only for how they look in a moment, but for how they will be lived with, day after day, year after year.

For most couples, the journey begins with the engagement ring. Chosen to mark a single question, it quickly becomes something far more constant. Worn every day, it settles naturally into the rhythm of life, present through anniversaries, milestones and the quiet moments that shape a shared future. Alongside it, the wedding band completes the story, simple in form, yet enduring in meaning.

Beyond these foundations, attention turns to the pieces chosen for the wedding day itself. Rather than standing apart, they are selected to sit in harmony with the overall look. A fine detail at the neckline, light

brought gently to the face, and considered finishing touches that bring everything together with ease.

The effect is subtle yet transformative. Nothing feels overworked, yet every element contributes to a sense of balance and quiet refinement.

What makes these pieces truly significant is what happens after the day has passed. Rings are worn without thought, becoming part of everyday life.

The pieces chosen for the wedding return over time, worn again for celebrations, formal occasions and moments that call for something meaningful. With each wear, they become more familiar, carrying memory without ever needing to declare it.

Today, many couples begin this journey long before stepping inside a jeweller’s boutique. Inspiration is gathered online, ideas are saved and shared, and a sense of personal style begins to take shape. Some arrive together, others alone, often with the intention

of creating a moment of surprise.

At Baker Brothers Jewellers in Bedford, these early ideas are met with care, expertise and genuine warmth.

For more than 180 years, the independent family jeweller has been part of engagements, weddings and anniversaries across Bedfordshire. Generations of families have returned, not only for the jewellery itself, but for the experience of choosing it.

Within the St Peter’s Street boutique, time is given to explore, ask questions and feel at ease. Conversations are shaped around the individual, ensuring every decision feels clear and considered. Diamond shapes, gemstones and craftsmanship are explained with confidence and clarity, making what can feel complex both accessible and enjoyable.

Some discover their ring within carefully curated collections. Others choose to create something entirely their own through a bespoke process that reflects their story.

Ultimately, jewellery chosen for an engagement and wedding is not defined by a single day. It becomes part of everyday life, present in both the extraordinary and the ordinary. It carries memory, meaning and a quiet sense of permanence.

At Baker Brothers, that journey begins with care, is guided by expertise, and continues for a lifetime.

Contact Baker Brothers via their website bakerbrothersdiamonds.com or phone +44 (0) 1234 438 770

Around the world

The Louis Vuitton Escale Collection embarks on a bold new journey, with haute horlogerie that embodies the art of travel

Two years since Louis Vuitton first relaunched its Escale collection, with each timepiece drawing inspiration from the classic design language of the travel-focused maison, it has become once more synonymous with the ‘romance of discovery’. Now, the watchmaking maestros at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton have introduced five new haute horlogerie complications, powered by four brand new calibres, to the permanent Escale collection.

Chief among the new launches are two impressive, updated expressions of the emblematic Worldtime – the Escale Worldtime (pictured) and Escale Worldtime Tourbillon – featuring new inhouse movements, platinum cases, and distinctive dials that allow the wearer to read 24 time zones at a glance. The collection is

completed by two versions of the elegant Escale Twin Zones and a new Escale Repetition Minutes.

“This new chapter for Escale is aligned with the transformation we have been going through over the last four years” says Jean Arnault, director of Louis Vuitton Watches. “The challenge for us was to elevate historical icons like the Worldtime to our new craftmanship standard and the difference is incredible. Details around the case, dial, movement finishing… all the details were carefully thought through.

“An added touch to this new Escale collection is the clever use of the Twin Zone complication, which indicates time all around the world, effortlessly,” he says. “A clever twist by [master watchmakers] Michel [Navas] and Enrico [Barbasini] on a decades-old complication”. »

THE WORLD AT A GLANCE

First debuted in 2014, the Escale Worldtime is truly a marvel of form and function, simultaneously displaying 24 time zones in stylish design. Reimagined for 2026, the Worldtime and Worldtime Tourbillon are now available in platinum with a stunning blue dial that perfectly blends métiers d’art with haute horlogerie.

The Worldtime is powered by a new in-house LFT VO 12.01 movement. The grained blue centre dial pays tribute to the canvas texture of Louis Vuitton’s Monogram trunks, while the 24 flags – representing major world cities – are inspired by historical Louis Vuitton motifs from the age of ocean liners.

“The Worldtime is where the Escale story truly began,” says Matthieu Hegi, artistic director of La Fabrique du Temps. “Bringing it back wasn’t just a choice – it was essential to honour the complication that defined the collection.”

The flags and Monogram Flowers are each hand painted in miniature (right), with a total of 35 colours applied using a fine-tipped brush before each colour is set by oven-drying – a process that takes a full week to complete, per dial.

“Every Escale Worldtime dial is the work of a single artisan, who works one brushstroke at a time from start to finish,” says Matthieu. “The flag motifs aren’t just decoration, they’re part of [Louis Vuitton’s] visual language. Each one embodies a fragment of our history.”

The Escale Worldtime Tourbillon, meanwhile, takes the design to another level of technical achievement.

Powered by the in-house LFT VO 05.01 movement, the dial mirrors the composition of its sister-watch, with 24 flags orbiting around a central star-shaped Monogram flower tourbillon. Here, the flags are not painted but rendered in grand feu enamel by a master enameller – each hue is applied by hand in a sequence of more than 40 firings at temperatures of 730°-840°C.

“The Worldtime has always been about motion, not just across time zones, but in how the watch feels alive,” says Michel Navas, master watchmaker and cofounder of La Fabrique du Temps. “Introducing the flying tourbillon at its centre amplifies that energy. It gives the complication a visible heartbeat.”

Every Escale

Worldtime dial is the work of a single artisan, who works one brushstroke at a time from start to finish

VERSATILE ELEGANCE

For those who don’t need the whole world on their wrist, the no-less-impressive Escale Twin Zones answers a question that frequent fliers have been asking for decades: how a dual time watch can effectively handle time zones found in specific regions that have a 30- or 45-minute offset. Offered in two expressions – a warm rose gold and haute joaillerie platinum edition – the Louis Vuitton Escale Twin Zone provides an elegant solution through a refined new movement that allows for precision and versatility across two time zones. Core to the Twin Zone’s design is the two sets of hands, mounted on the single axis, allowing for independently adjustable hour and minute hands. The full-bodied hands indicate local time, while the skeleton hands indicate home. Ingeniously, the skeleton hands can be hidden from view when the wearer is at home and only one time zone is required. A discreet day/night indicator at the top of an engraved globe provides a subtle hint at the timepiece’s capabilities.

TIMELESS RESONANCE

Completing the new collection, the Escale Minute Repeater (below and right) brings a musical resonance to the timeless collection. A fourth new in-house calibre, the manually wound LFT SO 13.01, powers both the minute repeater and jumping hours complications. Developed by master watchmakers Michel Navas and Enrico Barbasini, who both worked with the legendary watchmaker Gérald Genta in the 1990s during his collaboration with La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, the calibre lovingly reimagines Gérald’s classic minute repeater for the Escale collection.

The centre dial is handmade on a traditional rose engine, adorned with a flammé guilloché pattern that radiates from the centre to catch and reflect the light – a feat that took artisans up to 60 hours to achieve. The dial is then coloured to achieve the distinctive grey hue.

A large jumping hours aperture sits at six o’clock, while the retrograde minute hand glides back to zero at the top of each hour. Inside the case, the calibre’s black-polished hammers and gongs are hand-shaped, cut and adjusted for optimal vibration and amplitude, and tuned by ear to achieve a crystalline chime. The minute repeater is activated by a slide seamlessly integrated into the design of the lugs – as Matthieu explains: “It respects the silhouette of the Escale and makes the activation of the repeater an almost private act; the complication is revealed only to the wearer.”

An anthology rooted in travel and craftsmanship, the Escale collection celebrates Louis Vuitton’s ‘art of discovery’ through high watchmaking. “The new Escale represents functional watchmaking at its finest,” says Michel. “Each calibre was designed with clarity and precision in mind; complications that truly serve the traveller, finished to the highest standards of haute horlogerie.”

louisvuitton.com

“The idea was to make a travel watch that works for everyone, not just those in the usual 24 time zones,” says Michel. “The Twin Zone allows for half-hour and quarter-hour offsets without adding complexity for the wearer.”

Powered by the new in-house LFT VO 15.01 calibre, the rose gold model features a silvery globe dial engraved with fine and polished meridians and parallels, with a sunburst satin finish to bring the dial’s refined cartography to life.

The platinum high-jewellery expression (left) evokes the night sky with an aventurine dial spotted with 120 baguette-cut diamonds to represent moving stars. Blue studs denote the hours, while the case and bezel are set with 170 baguette-cut diamonds and a single saffron-coloured sapphire is set into the polished case back.

“The gem setting is executed with the same precision and intent as the movement itself,” says Matthieu. “With more than 300 diamonds in total, the watch offers extraordinary presence. It’s a true expression of our savoir-faire in both haute horlogerie and haute joaillerie.”

The Game Changer

The Sport Holdall by Bennett Winch | Launching June 2026

From unwieldy tennis bags to awkwardlyshaped gym holdalls that can’t accommodate your rackets, it has seemed impossible to find a sports bag that is functional, stylish and beautifully crafted – and can travel with you from the boardroom to the tennis court.

Enter the Bennett Winch Sport Holdall: a sleek, featherweight companion for those seeking a bag to ace every arena.

The Sport Holdall is hand-crafted in the Bennett Winch London workshop and features a robust technical nylon exterior with two distinct

outer pockets designed to house everything from tennis, squash, pickleball and padel rackets.

Inside, thoughtful design prevails: a removable waterproof pouch keeps trainers and postmatch kit discreetly separate, while a padded laptop sleeve ensures effortless transitions from the court to the office.

Every Bennett Winch creation is handmade in England, drawing on traditional skills and materials to produce accessories designed for the contemporary world. Bennett Winch is not driven by seasonal trends or fashion, inspired instead by objects of soul and purpose; products

built to last a lifetime and do so with grace. They know that true quality is timeless, and that if you buy well, you need only buy once.

Racket sports are booming globally, with padel courts appearing in every city hub and seemingly every F1 driver picking up a tennis racket between races, the moment has arrived for a bag that elevates the category in both function and style.

A new contender enters the arena every day, but very few can change the game like this.

bennettwinch.com

RE :VIEW

Nela London turns up the heat with theatrical fine dining

PLUS +

• Glyndebourne festival debuts world-class operas

• Tennis champions prepare for Wimbledon glory

• The Henley Festival returns to London in style

• Save the Date: your global luxury calendar

FINE DINING | NELA LONDON

All fired up

Nela London’s sensational summer menu brings its live-fire concept to life

Launched at The Whiteley in September 2025, Nela London – the live-fire concept by chefs Hari Shetty and Ori Geller that debuted in Amsterdam in 2021 – has quickly established itself as one of the capital’s most exciting fine dining restaurants. Nela, meaning ‘pure’, offers a gastronomic experience that focuses on honest, seasonal ingredients and simple contemporary cooking.

The exceptional experience begins with the restaurant’s décor. Warm neutrals, natural materials and plush seating dot the winding, spacious layout, centred around the chefs’ station and its wood-fired grill (pictured). The indoor-outdoor space leads to an elegant summer terrace perfect for dining or pre-dinner aperitifs, whether a glass of wine from the restaurant’s excellent selection or a decadent cocktail. All aptly-named for the live-fire experience – the First Spark combines Aperol, prosecco, homemade pineapple soda, lime and mint sorbet; the Burning Confession mixes Tanqueray 10, raspberry shrub, lemon, chamomile and honey foam – these refreshing long and short cocktails are creatively and expertly mixed.

Despite the convivial atmosphere and beautiful décor, it is very much the menu that takes centre stage to this dining experience. Head chef Sachin Mistry leads Nela London’s brigade. His impressive credentials include stints at The Grill by Tom Booton at The Dorchester London and Michelin-star The Cross at Kenilworth, leading him to gain an expertise and passion for modern cuisine that is at the heart of what makes this outstanding kitchen tick.

Dining with friends, and torn between just about everything on the menu, our server advises us to approach the delectable range of dishes on offer as sharing plates, in order to sample each of its sections – bread and pizza, raw and cured, vegetables and salad, fish and seafood, and poultry and meat. So emboldened, we start with a frena sesame – a crisp Moroccan flatbread with a jammy tomato matbucha relish and rich labneh dip – and Nela’s signature lamb fat butter frena, a fluffy tearable flatbread cooked over embers and served with a moreish

earthy melted butter.

Spoilt for choice, our vegetable selection includes irresistible charred Padron peppers served with a basil and lime aioli, and two refreshing salads – an Isle of Wight tomato salad with stracciatella and pistachio, and the charred baby gem with mustard and roasted almonds. Perhaps my favourite from the vegetable menu, Nela’s crispy courgette tempura with charred cucumber tzatziki is the perfect embodiment of the restaurant’s concept: a dish that seems simple on the surface, elevated through live-fire cooking to bring out the depth of flavour of the high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

Our glasses of crisp white wine (chosen by the sommelier) topped up, we are ready for our next round of recommendations. A perfectly flaky Chilean sea bass with a subtle tang enhanced by a citrusy kick from its yuzu and extra virgin olive oil accompaniment; a grilled and pressed spring chicken with black lime that is given another layer of smoky flavour from the wood-fire grill. Another sublime signature dish, Cornish slow-cooked lamb shank, melts as effortlessly in the mouth as it does from the bone, accompanied by a perfectly cooked firepit roasted sweet potato with an Ezme relish (a spicy Turkish salsa-style dip).

If, somehow, you have managed to keep room for dessert, Nela’s menu continues its simple yet sensational approach, with highlights including the Nela tiramisu with coffee caviar, Nela Basque cheesecake with roasted blueberry compote, and the dreamy matcha madeleines, created using ceremonial grade matcha and served with strawberry jam and Chantilly cream.

We finish our meal slightly spellbound by the consistent quality and creativity of every bite, in a joyful atmosphere designed for conversation and laughter over a shared meal, and can see why this restaurant – said to be F1 star Lando Norris’s favourite – has become such a landmark in such a short amount of time.

The Whiteley, 163 Queensway, London nelarestaurant.com

Words: Michelle Johnson

Operatic revivals raise the roof for Glyndebourne’s summer programme

The annual Glyndebourne Festival returns this summer with a magnificent programme of world-class opera. The stage is set in the stately home’s auditorium, with garden picnics and three restaurants in the grounds (above) for elegant interval dining whether you fancy French cuisine or British classics.

A summer of firsts puts the spotlight on two performances that are brand new to the festival’s programme, curated by artistic director Stephen Langridge. The first is Puccini’s Tosca , directed by Ted Huffman and accompanied by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Glyndebourne music director Robin Ricciati during the performance’s first run. The famous opera is a fast-paced tragic thriller set in Rome during the year 1800, as the opera diva Floria

Tosca is faced with a terrible choice – let her revolutionary artist lover die or give herself to the corrupt chief of police.

A second Glyndebourne debut comes in the form of L’Orfeo , a Baroque opera by Claudio Monteverdi based on the Greek myth of Orpheus in the Underworld. Directed by William Kentridge with Jonathan Cohen conducting the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, the cast of period specialists including Krystian Adam and Francesca Aspromonte.

The trio of new productions is completed by Ariadne auf Naxos, with Glyndebourne favourite Laurent Pelly directing Richard Strauss’ opera, and Robin Ticciati conducting the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Three familiar favourites also return this year, with new revivals of Mariame Clément’s version

of Rossini’s Il turco in Italia; Michael Grandage’s take on Britten’s Billy Budd, based on the book by Herman Melville; and David McVicar’s production of Mozart’s Die Entführung aus dem Serail

“Festival 2026 presents masterpieces from three-and-a-half centuries of opera, ranging from Monteverdi’s L’Orfeo in 1607 to Britten’s Billy Budd in 1951. In between them you can find Mozart, Rossini, Puccini and Strauss,” said Stephen. “We are excited and proud to have assembled outstanding international artists – singers, directors, designers, conductors – to bring these great works of music theatre to life in a packed summer of opera.”

Glyndebourne, Lewes, East Sussex. 21 May-30 August glyndebourne.com

Champions compete for Centre Court glory at Wimbledon

The Wimbledon Championships will see the world’s top tennis players gather at the All England Lawn Tennis Club this summer to compete for the prestigious trophy. One of the most anticipated sporting events of the British summer calendar, the tournament sees established champions and emerging talents compete for their place at the Centre Court (right) final.

A range of new hospitality options, including private suites and tasting menus from renowned chefs, are available to tickets holders, while those with court seats may enjoy spotting famous fans including past attendees Tom Cruise, Andrew Garfield, Zendaya, and the club’s patron Catherine, the Princess of Wales.

All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, Wimbledon. 29 June-12 July Wimbledon.com

EVENT | HENLEY FESTIVAL

London’s black tie festival returns to Henley with all-star performances

Henley Festival returns this summer for the UK’s only black tie music festival celebrating art and unforgettable musical acts (left). Notable artists including Boy George and Culture Club, Sugababes and Lulu are expected to take to stage promising unmissable performances worth experiencing.

Beyond its musical credentials, Henley’s charitable arm supports emerging musicians and artists through its RISE programme. Throughout its four-day run, the event will feature a display of fireworks, art and sculpture installations, following a celebration of music and comedy with stand-up sets from big names including QI’s Alan Davies offering a magnificent summer show you won’t forget.

Henley Bridge, Henley-on-Thames. 8-12 July henley-festival.co.uk

SAVE DATE the

Your luxury events calendar for this season

Royal Ascot

The UK’s premier five-day horse racing event returns with world-class equestrianism, fabulous fashions and outstanding hospitality. Place your bets and watch all the action from the exclusive Royal Enclosure, where guests may get a glimpse of royal racing fans. ascot.com

Art Basel

More than 290 galleries will present works by over 4,000 international artists at this year’s Art Basel in Switzerland. Browse top galleries from Europe, Africa, North America, Latin America and Asia and explore the Unlimited monumental exhibition at the prestigious art extravanganza. artbasel.com

F1 British Grand Prix

Formula 1 returns to Silverstone for an action-packed Grand Prix weekend in July. Competition between Mercedes, McLaren, Red Bull and Aston Martin teams is heating up on the track as their drivers battle for a podium finish – but who will be in pole position on the day? f1.com

7-9 Aug 30 Aug -13 Sep

18-21 Jun 16-20 Jun 2-5 Jul 9-12 July

Goodwood Festival of Speed

Hosted within the idyllic grounds of the Goodwood Estate, the Festival of Speed brings four days of motorsports and classic automotives to supercar fans. This year’s theme, “The Rivals – Epic Racing Duels” will see famous automotives go head-to-head on Goodwood Hill. goodwood.com

Longines Global Champions Tour

Celebrate the very best of British equestrianism at the London leg of the Longines Global Champions Tour. Enjoy top-tier eventing, including show jumping, dressage and much more, all held at the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. gcglobalchampions.com

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, changes to event calendars may occur. Please check with individual event organisers for more information.

US Open Tennis Championships

The fourth and final Grand Slam of the season, this year’s US Open Tennis Championships will once again see tennis behemoths – and star-studded crowds of fans – gather in New York’s Flushing Meadows as they take to the hard-court of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. usopen.org

A Stay to Remember

Find your dream hotel in the Austria Hotel Collection 2026

The mountains, the lakes, the huts, the food and the cities steeped in imperial history: Austria has the full package – just waiting to be discovered. Those who come visit will take away more than just memories from their time conquering peaks, eating schnitzel and exploring the latest art exhibitions. Austria’s exceptional hotels are the cherry on the top that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Welcome to the Austria Hotel Collection, a handpicked selection of premium hotels located across the country, each one unique in character and reflecting its locale with an abundance of activities, elegant design, exceptional cuisine and

personalised service 365 days a year.

Holidaymakers looking to completely switch off in nature will love Austria’s Alpine luxury escapes, nestled amid postcard-perfect mountain peaks and offering maximum privacy and tranquility, along with stylish rooms and award-winning restaurants. Then, there are our outdoor and family resorts, made for guests eager to explore their surroundings while hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting or even taking a tandem flight. Those who’d rather focus on recharging their batteries than working their muscles – or testing their nerves – are perfectly catered for at Austria’s mountain and lakeside spa hotels – think Instagram-worthy infinity pools

with gorgeous mountain views, private beaches, massages and longevity treatments. And, of course, there are our city hotels, inviting guests to discover everything Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck have to offer right from their doorstep, then capping the day with an exquisite multi-course dinner followed by a cocktail on a rooftop terrace while the sun sets.

Whatever your dream getaway, the Austria Hotel Collection 2026 has you covered. Book, check-in and unwind. After all, the best time of the year deserves the perfect place to spend it.

www.austria.info/en-gb/recommendations/austriahotel-collection

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YOUR MUNICH BASE. WITH A ROOFTOP LIKE NO OTHER.

In the heart of Munich -

Cocoon Sendlinger Tor is your place to slow down, recharge and feel at home. Above it all: FreiSchwimmer. A rooftop inspired by summer lidos.

SCAN TO DISCOVER:

LOAFING AROUND

Rikesh Chauhan puts his best foot forward on behalf of a surprising men’s footwear style gaining traction at fashion week

Of all the columns I’ve written for Tempus, this one is probably the most left field. I usually opt for clothes and accessories that I’ve personally worn and can vouch for, made by brands that pride themselves on quality craftsmanship. This time, however, I am stepping into a newfound category I can only describe as the Marmite of footwear.

Sometimes brands will create things that absolutely no one asked for and no one ever buys it but, in this case, said brands have created something that no one has asked for – and which has been living rent-free in my head. Esteemed readers, I bring to you: the hybrid sneaker-loafer. I know. I am deeply sorry. But please humour me, at least for the sake of finishing this column.

For years, cordwainers the world over have

tried to create footwear that screams luxury and elegance, often to the detriment of comfort. Trainers and sneakers, meanwhile, have had the luxury of being elevated both in style and in publicity: someone said trainers can work well with suits and most of us are actually beginning to believe it. It seems that the big hitters in the sneaker game may have found themselves on the precipice of a eureka moment. Whether they reach the metaphorical summit, or fall off the subsequent cliff, is something we have the pleasure of deciding. So, let’s get into it.

First up, New Balance. Not only did they decide to launch a hybrid loafer, but they went ten toes in, offering it up in a range of different colours, patterns and even material in both men’s and women’s sizes. The 1906L is, honestly, garish – and

I love it. If we’re looking for a shoe that can take you from London Fashion Week’s hyper street style aesthetic to sneaking into poolside events at Pitti Uomo in Florence, this is probably the way to go. If that wasn’t enough, Adidas have thrown animal print into the mix. The Handball Spezial has the spotted suede upper that is essentially a penny loafer in style, while retaining their iconic gum sole. It should, in theory, work for everything from indoor sports to long days walking on cobbled streets. There is, for peace of mind, a more classic offering from the stalwarts of the genre – Vans. The Skate Loafer is part loafer, part creeper and actually very easy on the eye. Made using a deep black suede, these could certainly pass for a relaxed loafer in their own right, as opposed to a hybrid. Either way, I’m obsessed – and I want them all.

A maximalist hybrid loafer that warrants attention, the 1906L was launched as a Paris Fashion Week collaboration with Junya Watanabe. It borrows a sole unit from the brand’s 860v2 trainer, with a holed open mesh base and synthetic overlays in metallic silver shades for the loafer-shaped upper.

footpatrol.com

How better to celebrate the Originals brand than with animal print, '70s style and optimum comfort? Crafted from suede with a plush leather lining and rubber outsole, finished with Adidas’s classic three stripes and Spezial Trefoil tongue logo, this is laidback sportswear with heaps of personality.

adidas.co.uk

A nod to the 1950s creeper in classic colours to provide an elevated retro feel, the Skate Loafers feature a reissued slipon silhouette with quality suede uppers and vulcanised rubber lug outsoles. It’s an old-school aesthetic that works with street style and more, promising all-day comfort and durability.

vans.com

1906L Loafer by New Balance

Handball Spezial Loafer Shoes by Adidas

Skate Loafer Shoes by Vans

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