Archive for May, 2009

The Cadogan Arms

Friday, May 29th, 2009

What a lick of paint and a few stuffed animals on a wall can do.

It’s been an old favourite for many years with the Chelsea crowd. A ‘lets-just-grab-a-pint’ kind of place where the old-school Chelsea gents in their Pink shirts and loafers would mix happily with the jumble-sale clad under age Sloanes. But this is not quite the story any more.

cadogan-arms

After changing hands The Cadogan Arms has a touch more charm, certainly a lot less dirty and has been turned into a rather nice place for a drink on the Kings Road.

Last nights opening party was, well, best described as very full. It was hard to see what had changed through all the navy pin-striped suits and waitresses dressed up as Marie Antoinette. But the most obvious was that this once rather depressing old favourite has been given a much needed touch up and a few stuffed animals to brighten up the walls. An interesting alcoholic cocktail was being served with Pansies but very little for the non drinkers among us which was surprising considering the new owners also own The Botanist who praise themselves on their concoctions. Two circus performers on stilts framed the front door and a gaggle of photographers eagerly awaited someone.

But over all the evening was a huge success and the new Cadogan Arms is a very welcomed addition to the Kings Road.

The Cadogan Arms
298 Kings Road, London SW3 5UG

www.thecadoganarmschelsea.com

Cour-Tea-San Delight

Friday, May 29th, 2009

Lingerie designer Modern Courtesan will be hosting a slightly different afternoon tea each month. Revamping the Metropolitan bar into a sensual boudoir with the help of interior designer Madame Sera, the event will be a ladies only seduction class.

Designed for Hens, from 2-4pm, you will be entertained by guest speakers who will offer words of advice and interest in the world of burlesque.  Guests speakers so far have included Stephen Bayley on his book ‘Woman as Design’ and erotic accessories designer JimmyJane to name but a few.  There will also be a performance by true blue burlesque darling Roxy Velvet as well as an introduction to the art of striptease.

With aphrodisiacs scenting the room, butter and wheat free cakes, as well as discounts on purchased pieces, The Ritz should be getting worried.

modern-courtesan.

Tickets are £50 and can be purchased in advance.

www.themoderncourtesan.com

Scarlett Fever

Thursday, May 28th, 2009

Scarlett Johansson will be taking the position of her Vicky Christina Barcelona co-star Penelope Cruz as the face of Spanish clothing giant Mango.

Quick to follow up her success as the model featured in the new Dolce & Gabbana make-up campaigns, Scarlett has been shooting for Mango wearing a combination of leopard print and tight-fitting black, her hair cut shorter and worn more dishevelled. The photographs were taken in Los Angeles by Mario Sorrenti, and are yet to be released. A spokesman for the high-street chain told WWD that Scarlett was “perfect” for the job, thanks to her “extraordinary personality, fun and young”, reflecting the target Mango customer – “urban, independent and cosmopolitan”.

Miss Johansson’s career appears to be going from strength to strength, as she makes the most of all given opportunities – our guess is that her stardom will only propel Mango further into the fashion limelight.

www.mango.com

Paris with Sparklers

Wednesday, May 27th, 2009

Paris Hilton Baroque

Paris Hilton has been spotted out and about yet again partying with new best friend peaches at trendy nightclub Baroque. Paris’ entourage called the venue an hour before the visit to inform staff that her newly found friend would be celebrating the evening with her. When she was confronted with a magnum of champagne and sparklers, Paris grabbed the sparklers but handed back the champagne claiming ‘we only do shots’.  So Akvinta Vodka, tequilla and JD were brought out instead, which kept on them on the dance floor until closing time.

www.baroquelondon.com

Lego Architecture

Wednesday, May 27th, 2009

If you’re on the hunt for a children’s present that looks just as impressive to parents alike, or know of someone fascinated by cityscape, look no further than the new Lego Architecture range, which now includes two legendary Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and “Fallingwater”.

With models developed in collaboration with architects, Lego Architecture works to inspire future architects, engineers and designers, as well as Lego builders worldwide looking for particular momentos of worldwide architectural sites. Both of the exclusive Frank Lloyd Wright sets contain booklets featuring archival historical material and photographs of each iconic building. “Mr Wright’s buildings are a treasure trove of possibilities”, says Adam Reed Tucker, innovator of the series, “I’m thrilled to be working with the Foundation in order to to include the timeless buildings in this series”.

Available at www.brickstructures.com