Category Archives: Fashion

Hot on the Highstreet Week 259

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It is not easy to find a bikini that makes you feel good about yourself. When I first step onto the beach with pasty British skin I like to have an outfit that will boost my confidence.

The Cos bikinis take the common female insecurities into consideration. Comfortable, flattering and available to buy as separates, so you can purchase a set that fits and flatters your figure. I was positively surprised by the swimwear, and particularly loved the simple pastel and striped designs.

The bikini tops are soft shaped, in a triangle style made from lightly textured pique fabric. With lined cups, they have thin adjustable straps and a matte clasp fastening at the back. The bikini bottoms have a smooth lining and are cut to sit low on the waist and high on the leg. I found them much more comfortable than most. Bikinis are sized XS-L and are priced between £15-19 for single top/bottom, so around £34 for a set.

Browse and buy the Cos bikinis online here.

Hot on the Highstreet Week 257

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Phoebe Coleman‘s jewellery is instantly recognisable for her signature style. The collections incorporate sparkling diamond cut gold motifs, iconography and symbolic charms, delicate and feminine pieces adorned with precious stones. Phoebe’s mission is to create beautiful, timeless jewellery with texture and attention to detail in simplistic forms, that surround an inspirational narrative and evoke emotions in the wearer. The jewellery is elegant and romantic, balanced with an underlying boldness and edge.

Phoebe Coleman grew up in Primrose Hill and studied fine art and jewellery design in California and London before starting her namesake label in 2010. A London girl at heart, Phoebe champions British craftsmanship: all jewellery is handmade by skilled artisans in her Shoreditch studio using 18 ct yellow and rose gold vermeil, sterling silver and quality precious stones including Akoya pearls, sapphires, rubies and diamonds.

The jewellery is regularly worn by fans of the brand including Alexa Chung, Poppy Delevingne, Ellie Goulding, Rita Ora and Jordann Dunn to name but a few. Editorials styled using the pieces regularly feature in the best fashion publications in the world, notably British and Italian Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Marie Claire and Grazia.

Last year Phoebe was nominated for Designer of the Year by the UK Jewellery Awards which will take place in London in June 2015.

More information and shop the collection here.

Things to do in Stockholm 2015

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Stockholm is an accessible but exciting destination. I visited a few years ago and fell in love with the clean and healthy lifestyle, cutting edge design, captivating sights and stylish culture. This time on my second visit my palate was introduced to the inventive cuisine, my wallet suffered thanks to the influential local designers, and my imagination soared discovering the historic wonders that showcase the city’s past. Just two hours from London, Sweden’s capital is the ultimate Scandi-chic city escape and both times I have visited I have found it utterly enchanting, an endearing combination of old and new.

To stay
Ett Hem – the most beautiful home you could ever wish to step foot in. This fairytale boutique hotel has flourished under the interior expertise of Ilse Crawford. Indulgently luxurious but with plenty of character and charm, Ett Hem ensures guests feel totally at ease and relaxed wherever they are, whatever they are doing. With just 12 rooms you will always feel special staying at Ett Hem.
 
To eat and drink
Gastrologik – This miraculous Michelin-starred restaurant is the vision of Jacob Holmström and Anton Bjuhr. They work closely with local producers and suppliers to create a magical daily menu that will surprise and delight.
Matbaren – influential chef Mathias Dahlgren has two Michelin star restaurants in Stockholm. Matbaren is the more casual of the two with small plates and a less formal atmosphere. Particularly memorable was Dahlgren’s take on an Asian BBQ steamed bun, it was absolutely delicious.
Gro – Dining out in Stockholm is an expensive affair but Gro is affordable and brilliant. This local eatery only serves two dishes each lunchtime, but what they do cook up is simple and honest, and seriously tasty. The cabbage and bacon was a winner when we visited, which we ate with rustic homemade bread and a refreshing Swedish sparkling berry fruit drink.
Drop Coffee Roasters – this award-winning roastery and cafe in the trendy Södermalm area is known to serve the best coffee in town. I tasted an aromatic blend from Rwanda which had been created with meticulous filter technique, very popular in Sweden.
Lindquists – Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon fika at Lindquists with one of their spiced cinnamon buns and a cup of something warming.
To do
Vasa Museum – The warship Vasa sank on her maiden voyage in Stockholm 1628 and was not salvaged until 1961. It’s the only preserved 17th century ship in the world. This miraculous ship is overwhelming huge and magnificently displayed. Learn about the ship’s story whilst wandering around the giant wooden structure.
Royal Palace – located in the old town (Gamla Stan) this ornate baroque palace is still in use today as the official residence of the Swedish Monarchy. Tourists can wander around parts of the palace and observe the lavish décor and artwork.
Östermalms Saluhall – this old fashioned foodhall has been inspiring locals and tourists since 1888. Today the beautiful hall hosts a range of vendors offering delicious local produce and Swedish delicacies. Visitors can wander around purchasing delicious souvenirs or can sit at one of the little cafés for a light lunch. We bought some typically Swedish cheese to take home.
Selma CitySpa – At the top of the towering Clarion Sign Hotel in Stockholm is a rooftop spa that will transport you away from the stress of the city to a world of relaxation. Enjoy a treatment before splashing around in the warm rooftop pool, or indulge with some champagne and sushi at the bar.
To shop
Nitty Gritty – This chic shop started out in 1991 in Stockholm as a counter reaction to all of the mainline clothing department stores dominating the market in the early 90′s. Beautifully curated and thoughtful, the shop is a great place to browse through interesting Swedish designers and unique products.
Hasbeens – These wonderful wooden-soled shoes have become so popular that they are now found in shops worldwide. Based on the clog styles from the 70s, Swedish Hasbeens creates traditional handmade shoes that will always be in fashion and will last forever.
Stutterheim – These brightly coloured handmade raincoats are the ultimate Stockholm accessory. Striking and trendy, they will make you crave the wet weather like never before.
Palmgrens – Established in 1896 by saddlemaker Johannes Palmgren this beautiful and luxurious leather designer is a Swedish institution. I loved the iconic leather-trimmed rattan tote, but there are many more styles and accessories to choose from. Sadly the beautiful craftsmanship comes with a hefty pricetag.
Byredo Parfums – This is one of only a few Swedish independent perfume brands and they produce lovely pure scents. The fragrances are made with only five core ingredients, and smell fresh and vibrant. I fell in love with Mister Marvelous, a unisex scent which has won several awards.

Many thanks to the Stockholm Tourist Board for their help with this trip.