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If anyone knows where the stars are summering this year, it’s DeuxMoi . The Instagram gossip account turned cultural oracle has partnered with Trainline to spill the tea on where Hollywood’s elite are vacationing across Europe—and how you can follow in their (designer) footsteps without hopping on a private jet. Forget long-haul flights or flashy chauffeurs. From the French Riviera to the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, this is a whistle-stop tour of the chicest celebrity-approved destinations, all accessible by train. Whether you're craving countryside calm like David Beckham or fashion capital flair à la Zendaya, here’s how to travel Europe like a star—just without the paparazzi. The Cotswolds, UK Spotted: David and Victoria Beckham, Will Poulter, Rupert Friend Only 90 minutes outside of London, this picture-perfect pocket of English countryside is a favourite with stars seeking serenity. Think thatched cottages, antique markets, and pubs with roaring fires—even in summer. Get there:  London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh (1.5 hours) Paris, France Spotted: Zoë Kravitz, Doechii, Theo James, Charlotte Le Bon Paris needs no introduction—but its celebrity fan club keeps growing. Between Fashion Week, Michelin-starred restaurants and quietly cool hotel stays, the City of Light remains a timeless playground for the rich and famous. Get there:  London (2h 15m), Marseille (3+ hours) Cannes, France Spotted: Pedro Pascal, Gabrielle Union, Austin Butler, Bella Hadid Long after the film festival wraps, Cannes continues to lure A-listers to its glittering coastline. From private yachts to poolside champagne, it’s luxury on full display. Get there:  From Marseille (just over 2 hours) or Nice (under 1 hour) Barcelona, Spain Spotted: Rosalia, Madelyn Cline, Lorde, Charli XCX Barcelona mixes beach life with creative cool, attracting musicians, artists and stylish jet-setters alike. The Gothic Quarter is a maze of moody wine bars and vintage finds, while the city’s rooftop scene is made for stargazing—of both kinds. Get there:  From Madrid (under 3 hours) or Málaga (6.5 hours) Madrid, Spain Spotted: Kylian Mbappé, Penélope Cruz, Javier Bardem, Josh Hutcherson, Dua Lipa This Spanish capital has a distinctly cinematic pull. Whether it's tapas at dusk or sultry flamenco shows, Madrid brings drama and elegance in equal measure. Get there:  From Seville (under 3 hours) or Barcelona (under 3 hours) Andalusia, Spain Spotted: Lena Headey, Gwendoline Christie, Keanu Reeves, Antonio Banderas, Robert De Niro Between the Game of Thrones backdrops in Seville and the star-studded beaches of Marbella, Andalusia is a sun-soaked siren call. Expect whitewashed villages, Moorish palaces, and the kind of relaxed glamour money can’t always buy. Get there:  To Seville from Madrid (2.5 hours) or Barcelona (6+ hours); to Málaga (closest to Marbella) from Madrid (under 3 hours) Rome, Italy Spotted: Sebastian Stan, Nina Dobrev, Harry Styles Whether tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain or dining al fresco in Trastevere, the Eternal City is steeped in romance and star power. Don’t be surprised if you spot a celeb mid-scooter ride past the Colosseum. Get there:  From Florence (1h), Milan (3h), Naples (1h) Milan, Italy Spotted: Zendaya, Donatella Versace, Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain Fashion capital, design hub, and Aperol-sipping heaven—Milan is more than just catwalks. It's a favourite for stars dropping in for Fashion Week or hiding out in lavish suites off Via Montenapoleone. Get there:  From Rome (1h), Florence (1.5h), Venice (4h), Paris (7h) Lake Como, Italy Spotted: Taylor Swift, Margaret Qualley, Leighton Meester and Adam Brody Lake Como’s cinematic beauty is the stuff of romance novels—and celebrity getaways. Expect luxury villas, quiet cobblestone towns, and the occasional George Clooney sighting. Get there:  From Milan (40 minutes) or Florence (under 3 hours) Amalfi Coast, Italy Spotted: Jennifer Lopez, Doja Cat, Joseph Quinn, The Kardashians Equal parts dramatic and dreamy, the Amalfi Coast is a no-filter-needed escape. Celebs dock their yachts in Positano, but rail travellers can still soak up the same magic without the megayacht. Get there:  From Salerno (under 1h) or Naples (just over 1h) to Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi https://www.thetrainline.com/

London’s most spirited seafood showdown returns this September as Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill revives its much-loved London Oyster Championships, an unmissable event set to take over Swallow Street on Friday 19th September 2025. Now in its second year under the Bentley’s name and celebrating 20 years of Chef Richard Corrigan’s leadership, the event promises a shell-cracking spectacle of speed, style, and sustainability. Backed by luxury English sparkling wine house Nyetimber and leading hospitality platform SevenRooms, the Championships continue to honour the great British oyster — and the people who know how to serve them best. Two Heats. One Ultimate Champion. Kicking off at 1pm, the Speed Shucking round will test the nerve and knife skills of the UK’s finest shuckers across four heats and a high-stakes final. The winner not only earns bragging rights, but also an all-expenses-paid trip to represent England at the World Championships in Galway, chasing the title of English Oyster Opening Champion — an honour Bentley’s own Federico Fiorillo claimed in 2023. Expect tight timing and expert judging, with an esteemed panel led by Christ Leftwich and David Jarrad of the Shellfish Association of Great Britain, joined by previous master shucker Nicki Holmyard. At 3pm, following live music and oyster-fuelled refreshment on the terrace, comes the Best Dressed contest. This round sees top chefs unleash their culinary creativity, designing oyster dressings that dazzle in both flavour and flair. Returning victor Tom Brown (Pearly Queen) will compete alongside talents from Noisy Oyster, Camille, Fallow, Applebees, and Prawn on the Lawn. The winning oyster will earn a coveted spot on the Bentley’s menu for one month. Judging this gourmet catwalk? An all-star panel featuring chef and restaurateur Anna Haugh, Saturday Kitchen host Matt Tebbutt, Bake Off icon Prue Leith, and wine critic Hannah Crosbie. A Celebration with Purpose With beloved chef and broadcaster Gizzi Erskine hosting the day, guests can expect an afternoon rich in charm, culinary drama, and insights into the world of oysters. More than just a competition, the event supports the Blue Marine Foundation, raising awareness around sustainable seafood practices and marine biodiversity. All oyster shells from the day will be collected and returned to Essex Estuaries to support vital oyster restoration efforts. How to Attend Tickets are £55 per person and include unlimited native rock oysters, two drinks, a sustainability-led goody bag, and access to the exclusive after party. Oyster lovers, seafood connoisseurs and curious foodies alike are urged to secure their spot now — places are limited and expected to sell out fast. 📍 11–15 Swallow Street, London W1B 4DG🔗 www.londonoysterchampionships.com 📸 @bentleysoysterbar | @chefcorrigan | @londonoysterchampionship

There’s no quiet time of year as a Luxury PA but if there was, August would certainly not be it. It’s a month that combines school holidays, with peak summer travel, and the mass exodus of many European residents from sweltering cities to cooler coastal and rural regions. We often think of the high and ultra-high net worth as being established businessmen and women, but more and more it’s the next generation - the founders, the 20 something’s who took a chance and built an empire, and those who have made social media their bread and butter. They see a gap in their schedule and want to fill it in the most luxurious way. And in 2025, the choice of what to do and where to go is vast. But it really is all about Europe this summer. Nothing is off limits and everything is highly tailored and personalised to each traveller’s needs and wants. As a Personal Private PA to the high-net-worth, my clients expect luxury combined with ease every step of the way, and below are a few examples of what they’re booking for August. While hotels certainly have their place in the world of luxury travel, this summer private villas have been top of the agenda for the world’s wealthy. Think Ibiza, Italy, Greece, and Portugal. Places with guaranteed sunshine, a mix of beach, city, and nature, and the option to arrive discreetly and be catered for in a truly personalised way. Despite the difference in client demographic, those who have been in touch about villa bookings have all requested the same thing – a self-contained space with everything they, and their family, need within the four walls. Minimum; a chef, driver, gym, pool, private outdoor living space, and strong WiFi. Luxury trains are also becoming increasingly popular as a way to experience slow, purposeful travel. A trend we’re seeing a lot of this year and one I don’t see going anywhere for a while. These trains lend themselves perfectly to those who are looking to celebrate a milestone in opulent surroundings and be home by bedtime, as well as others looking to experience uninterrupted timeless glamour for a few extra days. Hop on-board the British Pullman for a journey throughout the Kent countryside or, for those needing some extended R&R, there’s the option of travelling across Europe on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express with menus created by Michelin Star Chef Jean Imbert and Grand Suites so decadent you’ll never want to leave. When clients are hoping for a quick last-minute getaway, due to the ease in getting there, Paris is always one of my suggestions. And two icons that top the list are Le Meurice and Hôtel Plaza Athénée, both of which are part of the Dorchester Collection. French hospitality is second to none (not to mention the bread, the pastries, the butter, the wine, the cheese) and at both properties nothing is too much of an ask. Clients with a little extra time often decide to pair their trip with a few days in Antibes staying at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc or The Maybourne Riviera overlooking Monaco. As the end of summer approaches there’s still time to pack your bags for some well- deserved relaxation abroad. But before you get your suitcase from the attic, keep in mind these suggestions to ensure you get the most out of your time and trip. Don’t waste time researching destinations, flights and hotels. Get a PA to do it for you. They’re in the know and have the contacts. Sit back and wait for them to come to you with an itinerary and flight options. They’ll even anticipate needs you didn’t know you had. Plan ahead as much as possible, but for the times when you can’t, book accommodation with a last-minute cancellation policy so you won’t be caught out if plans change from one day to the next. And always book direct. If you book through a third-party website and your trip cancels, it’s impossible to speak to someone to get it sorted. If you want to get away but everywhere is booked, go to France. A hotel, a villa, an Airbnb, it doesn’t matter. Much of the country’s population up and leave during the month of August meaning availability for travellers is often high. Be flexible, especially if you’re keen on experiencing Belmond’s trains. Unlike planes and regular trains, routes only run on certain days and months, so if your dates are rock solid and can’t be moved, you may need to look at an alternative option. Sarah is the Founder of LANE, an exclusive personal private PA consultancy offering a multitasking, perfectionist assistant on demand to the high and ultra-high net worth. www.lane.london  / @laneoflondon

As summer sunsets grow earlier and evenings stretch longer, Le Creuset has announced a new star to brighten the season: Nuit , the brand’s deepest, most dramatic blue to date. Inspired by the mystery and elegance of the night sky, Nuit is not just another shade of blue. This luxurious, velvety hue glides from near-black to a true, rich blue in a subtle ombré effect — a sophisticated colourway designed to anchor every autumnal ritual. Whether it’s the backdrop for a decadent dinner party, moody tablescapes, or the comforting vessel for your evening cup, Nuit invites warmth and connection as the days grow darker. Available across Le Creuset’s iconic enamelled Cast Iron collection and refined stoneware, Nuit promises to make a statement in any kitchen. The new line features the brand’s signature chrome knob, shimmering like a star against the deep blue finish. For those who love to play with colour, Nuit pairs beautifully with Shell Pink or Volcanic, offering a daring palette that adds vibrancy and life to the home. Marianna Spiliotopoulos, Head of Marketing at Le Creuset, shares: “We’re super excited to launch Nuit, our most dramatic blue yet. At Le Creuset, we are trendsetters in colourful cookware, and we love to lean into striking colours. With Nuit, we pay homage to the essence of the night, when the sky darkens and celebrations take place. Here, whether it be a party or a shared meal together, we want people to use Nuit to create new memories.” More than just a colour, Nuit embodies the mood of late summer and early autumn — dark, captivating, and inviting deeper conversation around the table. And with Le Creuset’s lifetime guarantee on all cookware, this unique shade can be cherished and enjoyed for years to come. Nuit is available now in all Le Creuset boutiques and online. https://www.lecreuset.co.uk/en_GB/c/shop-by-colour/nuit

What if your journey to the Indian Ocean didn’t begin with a long-haul flight and a dash to the resort, but instead unfolded as a curated, two-part experience — city sparkle first, then barefoot bliss? JA Resorts & Hotels has quietly launched one of this summer’s most seductive luxury travel pairings: book seven nights at their ultra-exclusive JA Manafaru in the Maldives or JA Enchanted Island Resort in the Seychelles, and they’ll gift you a complimentary two-night stay in Dubai. Yes, really. This is the luxury layover — reimagined. Part One: Your Dubai Prelude Before you’ve even dipped a toe into the Indian Ocean, Dubai greets you with a little glamour of its own. And with a choice of three very different stays, your mood can set the tone. Feel like easing in by the beach? JA Ocean View Hotel in Jumeirah Beach Residence gives you floor-to-ceiling views of the Gulf and direct access to one of Dubai’s buzziest waterfronts. Prefer a wellness reset or early tee time? JA Lake View Hotel, nestled within a 128-acre resort, offers golf, horseback riding, and a serene start to your journey . Or, if you’re the kind of traveller who likes a slower pace and a morning hike in the mountains, JA Hatta Fort Hotel delivers seclusion and wild beauty — just 90 minutes from the city. You’ll get breakfast included, and two nights to press pause before your next chapter begins. Part Two: Island Time, Redefined Then comes the main event. In the Maldives, JA Manafaru offers that castaway fantasy with a cultured edge — think water villas, manta ray sightings, and all-inclusive gourmet dining in the northernmost atoll of the archipelago. It’s private, untouched, and utterly postcard-worthy. Meanwhile, over in the Seychelles, JA Enchanted Island Resort offers something even rarer: the chance to fully take over an entire private island (11 villas, two lodge rooms) if you wish. There’s kitesurfing, yes — but also helicopter tours, catamaran dinners, and total privacy in one of the world’s most protected marine reserves. Why Now? 2025 is already being dubbed the year of the long getaway , with more luxury travellers opting to extend their stays and experience multiple destinations in one trip. But it’s rare to find a package that blends city, sea, and service with this much fluidity — and with complimentary nights in a destination like Dubai, it feels like the kind of elevated travel decision you’d only hear whispered about by someone in-the-know. Now you’re in the know. JA Manafaru  from £700 per night JA Enchanted Island Resort  from £750 per night Two-night Dubai stay complimentary with seven-night booking. Explore more: www.jaresortshotels.com

British jeweller Monica Vinader has launched its latest collection, meet Nomade -- an ultra-bold new line that draws inspiration from the natural world and the free spirit of exploration. Sculptural and tactile, the pieces are designed to be worn every day, with a focus on timeless design and considered craftsmanship, as in keeping with this British brand.  Founded in 2008 from a converted forge in Norfolk, the brand was built on Monica Vinader’s belief that fine jewellery shouldn’t be kept for special occasions. Her pieces perfectly balance the classic and the contemporary, refinement and relaxation; after all, these pieces have been designed and made to be lived in, and loved. Over the past 15 years, the brand has grown into a global name, recognised for its modern aesthetic and strong ethical principles, and as such, all the collections are now made using 100% recycled precious metals, with full traceability from source to finished piece. Nomade continues this direction, with pieces that are crafted from recycled 18ct gold vermeil, reflecting the brand’s ongoing commitment to sustainable production. Drawing influence from dramatic wind-sculpted dunes, rock formations and clay ridges, the collection showcases natural forms.  Expect smooth metal finishes that are set against the softness of pearls that creates an interesting contrast, with a line that is made up of sculptural hoops, huggies, and drop earrings, along with fluid pendant necklaces, layering chains, and pearl-accented styles. You'll also find statement cuffs, curved bangles, and soft-link bracelets, plus chunky rings and stackable bands with organic, asymmetrical shapes. Every piece is designed to feel relaxed and wearable, with flowing lines and a polished finish that's a signature of Monica Vinader.

Tucked away behind a discreet façade in one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods lies a house that once belonged to British style royalty. The former St John’s Wood home of Kate Moss, known for its air of mystery and moments of fashion folklore, has quietly re-emerged on the market, listed with Arlington Residential for £5.95 million. But this isn’t just a celebrity home with a glamorous past. It’s a house with rare character — one that has evolved over decades while keeping its sense of calm, privacy and proportion intact. Back in 1993, the property was a handsome period building arranged over two floors. It sold for less than £800,000. By the early 2000s, it had caught the attention of Moss, who purchased it for £1.75 million, no doubt drawn to the blend of grandeur and discretion it offered. She held onto the house for a decade before selling in 2012, reportedly for £6.8 million. Now , for the first time in over ten years, the house is available once again. And while it may not scream for attention, its charms are hard to ignore. A sweeping drawing room with ceiling heights to rival any West End gallery, soft natural light pouring in through tall sash windows, and a lower-ground kitchen and entertaining level that flows seamlessly onto the southwest-facing walled garden — these are the sort of details you don’t easily find in London property today. There’s a quiet confidence to the layout: elegant without being showy, inviting without being over-designed. The garden itself, unusually large for the area, offers a rare dose of tranquillity, while the house’s tucked-away setting means it remains almost entirely unseen from the street. It’s this sense of invisibility that’s likely to appeal most to the next buyer: someone who wants luxury and space without the performance of it. “Buyers at this level tend to know what they want — and often, that’s privacy,” says Marc Schneiderman, Director at Arlington Residential, who has a long-standing relationship with the property. “This home offers exactly that, without compromising on light or layout.” St John’s Wood has long held appeal for A-listers and low-key creatives alike — close enough to central London for convenience, far enough for peace. It’s where grand villas sit quietly behind hedgerows, and where properties of this calibre rarely come up for sale. Yes, it’s a house once owned by Kate Moss. But more than that, it’s a house that understands discretion, and for many luxury buyers, that’s the ultimate status symbol.

This August, Greece’s iconic Sani Resort will once again welcome one of tennis’ most revered figures for a week of elite training, luxury living, and unforgettable memories. From 23rd to 29th August 2025, the prestigious Toni Nadal Training Week  returns to the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center, offering guests exclusive access to a high-performance programme led by the legendary coach himself. Known as the architect behind Rafael Nadal’s rise to greatness, Toni Nadal – now Head Coach at the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar – will oversee a series of immersive sessions designed for both budding tennis stars and seasoned enthusiasts. It’s one of the summer’s most anticipated sporting highlights, set against the breathtaking natural beauty of Halkidiki’s Sani Resort. An Elite Tennis Experience The week’s centrepiece is a three to four-day programme of morning tennis clinics on Sani’s immaculate clay courts. Open to juniors and adults alike, these sessions are guided by Toni Nadal and supported by his elite coaching team, focusing on everything from technique and strategy to the all-important mental game. The experience culminates in a personal Meet & Greet and Certificate Ceremony, where guests have the rare opportunity to receive training certificates directly from Toni Nadal himself – a memento of both achievement and inspiration. Where Luxury Meets Sport: The Rafa Nadal Tennis Center Sani Resort’s Rafa Nadal Tennis Center is more than just a facility – it’s a destination in its own right. With eight professional clay courts, a stylish clubhouse, and an outdoor lounge nestled within Sani’s protected eco-reserve, it offers an environment that perfectly marries wellness, nature, and performance. Whether you’re picking up a racket for the first time or refining your serve, guests can expect dynamic, results-driven coaching rooted in the methodology of one of tennis’ all-time greats. The Center’s philosophy isn’t just about improving your game – it’s about building confidence, fitness, and a lasting love for the sport. The Toni Nadal Training Week is just one jewel in Sani Resort’s glittering summer crown. The season also welcomes the return of two of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated festivals – Sani Gourmet and the Sani Festival – both running throughout July and August. At Sani Gourmet, guests will dine on creations from a stellar lineup of Michelin-starred chefs with culinary influences spanning Paris to Lima, Bangkok to New York. Meanwhile, Sani Festival will see open-air performances from global music legends including Norah Jones, Gloria Gaynor, and the Gipsy Kings. Toni Nadal’s arrival perfectly coincides with the festival’s grand finale on 23rd August, featuring an unforgettable performance by Lina Nikolakopoulou. It’s a rare opportunity to blend world-class sporting experiences with live music, fine dining, and the stunning surrounds of Sani’s beachfront venues. From courtside to concert stage, Sani Resort delivers a luxury lifestyle escape where every detail is curated, every experience elevated, and every moment memorable. For more information or to reserve your place at the Toni Nadal Training Week, visit:  sani-resort.com

Australian chef Scott Hallsworth is bringing his rule-breaking, cult-favourite dining concept Freak Scene  to the heart of Soho for an exclusive pop-up in partnership with the Evolv Collection. Launching 22nd July and running through to November 2025, the residency will take over the ground floor of the iconic 100 Wardour Street. This marks a long-awaited homecoming for Freak Scene , as well as the first and only pan-Asian offering within the Evolv Collection’s growing portfolio. Known for his provocative, punk-spirited approach to cuisine, Hallsworth’s cooking fuses Japanese izakaya influences with bold Aussie flair—delivered with an unapologetic sense of fun. Hallsworth rose to prominence as Head Chef at both Nobu London and Nobu Melbourne, before founding the critically acclaimed Kurobuta, with outposts in Chelsea, Knightsbridge and Marble Arch. Since launching Freak Scene , the chef has carved out a rebellious niche with dishes that are as loud and flavour-packed as the environments they’re served in. The Soho pop-up will showcase signature Freak Scene  favourites, including chilli crab wonton bombs, miso-grilled hispi cabbage, and red curry duck donut buns—alongside a selection of new dishes crafted especially for the Soho crowd. A riotous Saturday brunch will also be on offer, pairing pan-Asian plates with hip-hop beats, graffiti-scrawled walls, and an atmosphere that crackles with energy. “This is possibly the most exciting news I’ve been able to share since founding Freak Scene ,” said Scott Hallsworth. “Not only are we heading back to our Soho roots, but we get to team up with the brilliant Evolv Collection at the iconic 100 Wardour Street. I can barely wait.” The partnership marks the first major collaboration under Evolv Collection’s new CEO Martin Williams, signalling a fresh and contemporary vision for the group. Williams—also behind the launch of Pont Plage , the riverside beach pop-up, and the new Bluebird Club private members’ spaces in Chelsea and the City—has been steadily reshaping the Evolv experience to appeal to a broader, more dynamic demographic. “I’ve been a fan of Scott’s food since his Kurobuta days,” said Martin Williams. “His creativity, edge, and mastery of flavour have always stood out. We’re thrilled to be welcoming Freak Scene  to 100 Wardour Street. It’s a perfect fit—and the start of something very exciting.” The Freak Scene x 100 Wardour Street  pop-up opens its doors on 22nd July and will run until the end of November. Reservations are now open via freakscene.100wardourst.com .

A former LVMH insider has joined forces with leading luxury property operator Rhodium, signalling a growing convergence between fashion’s most prestigious houses and the world of ultra-prime real estate. In a move that speaks volumes about the evolving face of luxury, Rhodium, one of the UK’s foremost operators of ultra-high-end residential developments, has announced the appointment of a former LVMH Director of Acquisitions as Strategic Advisor. But this isn’t just a senior hire—it’s a statement of intent. With a CV that includes steering landmark acquisitions at LVMH and founding the boutique advisory firm Savigny Partners, the new advisor brings decades of experience from the very top of the fashion and beauty world. He’s worked with icons like Lanvin, Christian Lacroix, Byredo, Delvaux, and Tom Dixon, and advised on deals that shaped the modern luxury landscape. At LVMH, he reported directly to Bernard Arnault, leading group-wide transactions across fashion, fragrance, jewellery, and more. Now, he’s turning his attention to bricks and mortar. “He’s been at the forefront of some of the most iconic transactions in the luxury industry,” says Dean Main, CEO of Rhodium. “His deep understanding of brand strategy and positioning brings invaluable expertise to Rhodium as we expand our global footprint in the branded residences sector.” It’s a natural evolution. As fashion houses increasingly move beyond handbags and haute couture to launch branded residences, hotels, and lifestyle experiences, the boundaries between fashion, real estate, and hospitality are blurring. Rhodium sits at the intersection, offering world-class operational and advisory services to some of the world’s most prestigious new-build addresses. The company currently manages a portfolio worth ov er £12 billion, including iconic developments like Riviera Tower in Athens, 60 Curzon in Mayfair, Regents Crescent, and The Bryanston in Marylebone. Their role goes beyond management—Rhodium helps shape the DNA of a development from pre-planning through to post-completion living. “Rhodium’s position as a trusted operator in both branded and non-branded residences is unique,” the advisor commented. “I’m excited to support the team in building new partnerships and driving growth in a market that’s increasingly focused on world-class service and brand experience.” The partnership marks a telling moment in the luxury market. No longer are the world’s top luxury executives focused solely on fashion capital runways. Today, the most discerning buyers want homes that reflect their lifestyles—and heritage brands, through strategic operators like Rhodium, are beginning to deliver. London, it seems, isn’t just home to some of Europe’s finest boutiques. It’s becoming the next runway for high-end residential living. For more on Rhodium’s portfolio and partnerships, visit www.rh-45.com .

In the heart of Paris this July, as the Seine shimmered and the city’s grand maisons unveiled their Autumn/Winter 2025 couture, one thing became abundantly clear: fantasy is back, and it’s never looked so commanding. Haute Couture Week, that rare and rarified moment in the fashion calendar, returned not just with tulle and theatrics, but with a regal defiance. These weren’t dresses for dainty princesses. They were gowns built for empresses...women of substance, power, and unapologetic glamour. While the front row dazzled with the likes of Kim Kardashian channelling Elizabeth Taylor at Balenciaga, and appearances from Nicole Kidman, Keira Knightley, Dua Lipa and Cardi B, the true spectacle played out on the runway. Here are the moments that defined a season ruled by exquisite craft and untouchable elegance. Elie Saab: The Return of Royalty Titled La Nouvelle Cour —The New Court—Elie Saab’s AW25 collection was nothing short of majestic. Set against a dramatic, shadow-lit backdrop, each look told the story of a woman born to reign. There were sweeping gowns in porcelain pink, imperial gold, raven black, and ice-blue Regency tones. Every seam was sculpted, every embellishment deliberate—from hand-stitched blooms that curled across bodices to sheer capes that billowed with barely a whisper. Silhouettes nodded to 19th-century crinolines and corsetry, but Saab’s genius lies in his restraint. This was grandeur, yes, but tempered with lightness: skin revealed through illusion tulle, waistlines softened by silk organza, and modernity whispered through cut-outs and confident sheers. Hair was undone, makeup minimal. This wasn’t costume—it was couture for a woman who rules with quiet power. Giambattista Valli: The Art of Excess With his 29th couture collection, Giambattista Valli made an unapologetic statement. His pièce de résistance? A sunshine-yellow gown of architectural tulle, embroidered with fantastical flora and measuring nearly five metres across. In lesser hands, this much volume would overwhelm. But Valli's skill lies in balance—his floral embellishments added softness, while the structural precision anchored the whimsy. It was a look made for museum halls, grand staircases, and red carpets that demand to be conquered. Robert Wun & Armani Privé: Opposites That Allure If Saab and Valli channelled aristocratic opulence, Robert Wun brought sharp-edged mystique. His gowns were encrusted with thousands of hand-set crystals, catching the light like armour. These were garments for the woman who walks through fire—and ensures it burns for her. Meanwhile, Giorgio Armani offered a masterclass in elegance pared back. At Armani Privé, slim silhouettes, shimmering satin, and architectural necklines provided a quiet, commanding alternative. Understated? Yes. Unforgettable? Absolutely. The Verdict: Couture Reclaimed This season, couture didn’t whisper. It declared. It reminded us that fashion at this level is more than beauty—it's theatre, symbolism, and precision. AW25 marked a shift. Not toward novelty, but toward timeless power dressing—reimagined. We saw the grandeur of history, reworked for the future. The craftsmanship was intimate. The message was universal: elegance is eternal, but relevance requires reinvention. In a world teetering between chaos and creation, couture remains one of the last true luxuries: time, talent, and imagination stitched into wearable masterpieces. For those who live beyond trend cycles, this was a season to remember.

Tucked just off Regent Street in the beating heart of the West End, Hotel Café Royal’s Green Bar has long been a destination for cocktail connoisseurs. Now, the historic bar steps into a vibrant new era with the launch of a chic outdoor terrace and a refreshed cocktail menu that blends timeless elegance with modern mixology. Following the relaunch of the Café Royal Grill – now serving guests for both lunch and dinner – the Green Bar Summer Terrace completes a stylish revival of this legendary London institution. With its new open-air space and artfully crafted drinks offering, the Green Bar is redefining alfresco drinking in the capital. The newly launched Green Bar Summer Terrace brings the bar’s signature glamour into the open air. Surrounded by the energy of Piccadilly, it offers a serene yet sophisticated escape for those in the know. Whether it’s a post-work cocktail, a pre-theatre aperitif, or a sundown celebration, the terrace promises an elevated drinking experience in one of London’s most iconic settings. A Cocktail Menu with Heritage – and Flair At the helm of the new menu is Matteo Carretta, Director of Beverages at Hotel Café Royal, who’s drawn on both tradition and innovation to create a list that’s as refined as the setting. Paying homage to the Green Bar’s storied past – including the famed Café Royal Cocktail Book  of 1937 – the menu brings classic techniques into the present with seasonal ingredients and world-class spirits. The offering is thoughtfully split into three key collections: Unique Experiences: Bold, rare, and refined, including the d’Azur Negroni  and Seventy One Gold Martini . Seasonal Pairings: Innovative twists on spirit-forward drinks, like Scotch & Mango  and Mezcal & Ancho . Signature Classics: Resurrected recipes from 1930s bartending greats, including the Café Royal Special , a refreshing mix of Hendrick’s Gin, Boatyard Sloe Gin, Crème de Mûre and Lemon Juice. There’s also a dedicated non-alcoholic cocktail menu, with options like Peach & Hibiscus  and Basil & Apple  for those seeking the same craftsmanship, minus the alcohol. Collaborations and Takeovers on the Terrace To mark the terrace launch, Green Bar is also partnering with some of the world’s most respected spirits brands in a rolling Terrace Series. June kicked off with Martini Month in collaboration with Berry Bros. & Rudd, while July brings a sustainable twist with Fielden Rye Whisky and summer-perfect Mint Juleps . More terrace takeovers are planned throughout the summer, making Green Bar not just a place to drink – but a place to discover. Stylish, historic, and effortlessly cool, the Green Bar’s new terrace offers Londoners a fresh way to soak up the city’s cocktail culture. And with golden hour just around the corner, there’s never been a better time to take your seat. For more information or to explore the menu, visit Hotel Café Royal’s Green Bar.