Tag Archives: Selfridges.

Hot on the Highstreet Week 140

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“Tea must be deserved; it is demanding. Every harvest has its own nature, its secrets.” Henri Mariage

As my Parisian weekend draws closer my taste for the finest French fancies is awakened. This trip I am looking forward to seeking out the cute food boutiques: Angelina for hot chocolate, Laduree for macaroons and Marriage Frères for tea.

The iconic Marriage Frères French Tea House has recently opened its first ever UK concession in Selfridges London. This beautiful brand has previously only been available to buy in France, and Selfridges now offers the only chance to purchase the tea in the UK. I couldn’t help a quick glance at the Sefridges colourful concession but am saving the proper look for the original shop in Paris, when hopefully I can taste the special tea. I also intend on visiting the Marriage Frères Museum, a homage to majesty of tea.

Stocking a vast array of unique French teas Marriage Frères are known for their loose tea blends and pretty packaging (I adored the neon pink and gold boxes!). Exquisite teas from all over the world can be found in the boutique, each chosen for their qualities and taste. At Selfridges London the one-of-a-kind counter also allows you to create your own bespoke loose tea blend and package it up as a the perfect gift or tea time treat.

Sophisticated, refined and luxurious Marriage Frères suits London’s sipping society down to a tea!

More information here.

http://www.mariagefreres.com/

Hot on the Highstreet Week 138

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With the recent arrival of Mr Selfridge on our Sunday night screens, I feel it particularly apt to tell you about said department store’s most recent idea. No Noise celebrates the power of quiet, sees the beauty in function and finds calm among the crowds. As we become ever more bombarded with information and stimulation, the world is becoming an unbearably noisy place. No noise gives you a chance to stand still, reflect and appreciate. It is an initiative that goes far beyond retail.

In the Quiet Shop you can admire minimalist design with a carefully curated range of fashion, accessories and beauty products. Also some of the world’s most recognisable brands have taken the symbolic step of removing their logos in a collection of de-branded products – including Beats by Dre, Levi’s, Marmite and Crème de la Mer – each creating exclusive collector’s items.

Selfridges have partnered up with Headspace, the modern meditation experts, to deliver an extra helping of peace and quiet with your shopping. Look out for the Headspace pods throughout the store – each one offers a different guided meditation, to help calm busy heads. You can also take part in various events… on the 23rd February three performances of John Cage’s poignant 4’33” takes place in the atrium in store for customers. Or go along on Sundays to enjoy Idle Talks: a series of talks presented by the Idler Academy.

While take city reels from festive excess, take advantage of a few moments of thoughtful contemplation in Selfridges’ No Noise.

More information here.

Hot on the Highstreet Week 87

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“Celebrate the beauty of words, the joy of writing and the art of conversation.”

Selfridges are currently honouring wonderful words, with writers-in-residence, a special collection of letter-inspired jewellery, captivating storytellers and literary themed objects and gifts.

I absolutely love clothing or accessories which use words… my ‘Milly’ version of the famous Carrie necklace is a treasured piece in my jewellery box, as are my old limited edition Luella t-shirts with slogans like ‘Daddy I want a pony!’ On my 18th birthday I received a beautifully simple engraved silver ring from my parents quoting ‘Je vois la vie en rose’ (which loosely translates as the familiar saying ‘I see the world through rose tinted spectacles’). And inside there is a personal message, words that remind me of that important birthday.

I think Selfridges are onto a winner with the words idea. Teaming up with Tatty Devine, they have created an in-store workshop where shoppers can go along and design and customise their very own, entirely unique piece of jewellery. They’ve got everything at hand to decorate your necklace with different chains and charms in store. All the rainbow sheets of plastic are available and someone is on hand to laser cut your piece to perfection. All the jewellery findings are stored in jars attached to shelves by their lids (one twist and you can pick out just what you need). I went along and designed a Thoroughly Modern Milly necklace.

If you’d rather have a ready made piece this fabulous jewellery brand have also created an exclusive range of funky necklaces, with plastic words like ‘OMG’ and ‘Bookworm’ on them.

The Words Words Words programme continues until 1 March: visit the Selfridges website here for more information on all the literary workshops, talks and events.