The Met Gala 2025 Theme was just announced

While most of us are busy figuring out our Halloween costumes or stressing over Christmas shopping, the fashion world has moved on to its favorite holiday: the Met Gala. Yes, it feels like the last one just happened, but the Met Gala runs on its own calendar—one that’s all about outdoing the year before, with bigger themes and more outrageous outfits. And now, the 2025 theme is official: Superfine: Tailoring Black Style . This year’s theme was announced on October 9, 2024, and it’s all about celebrating Black dandyism—specifically, how Black men’s fashion has shaped style from the 18th century to now. The exhibition takes its cues from Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity . Basically, it’s a deep dive into how Black men throughout history have mixed European tailoring with African aesthetics to create something totally unique and deeply influential. The Costume Institute’s spring 2025 exhibition will include garments, paintings, photographs, and more, all tracing the evolution of Black dandyism. And according to Andrew Bolton, the Costume Institute’s curator in charge, this show is a major step toward diversifying the museum’s fashion exhibits. “The Met is committed to making fashion more accessible and inclusive,” Bolton said, noting that Black designers are at the forefront of redefining how we think about identity in fashion. As for who’s co-chairing the gala this year? Pharrell Williams is back—this time alongside Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, and A$AP Rocky, with Anna Wintour holding her usual spot. Oh, and LeBron James will be joining as an honorary co-chair. No big deal, just one of the world’s most famous athletes helping to steer fashion’s most important night. What should you expect on the red carpet? Tailoring will be huge. Think sharp suits, luxurious fabrics, and details that reference everything from Harlem Renaissance style to contemporary Black designers like Grace Wales Bonner and the late Virgil Abloh. If you’re already dreaming of who’ll wear what, imagine Janelle Monáe or Zendaya showing up in an androgynous tux with a modern twist—or maybe Pharrell pulling out something wild from the Louis Vuitton atelier. But beyond just looking great, the theme comes with a political edge. Black dandyism has always been about more than just clothes—it’s a statement about self-expression, resistance, and reclaiming dignity through style. So, don’t be surprised if we see looks that tap into that history and make a bigger point. The exhibition, which opens on May 10 and runs through October 26, 2025, will be the first men-focused show since Men in Skirts in 2003, and it’s already generating buzz for how it tackles race, gender, and fashion. With seven months to go before the big night, the clock is ticking—and everyone’s wondering just how next year’s stars will interpret Superfine: Tailoring Black Style on the world’s most exclusive red carpet.

At Frieze London this year, Marco Capaldo steps beyond the runway to curate his first-ever exhibition, Memories of the Future , held at No. 9 Cork Street. The creative director of British luxury brand 16Arlington is known for his sophisticated approach to fashion, but here, he explores a different kind of aesthetic expression: the evolving, elusive nature of memory. Curated in collaboration with the international gallery Almine Rech, Memories of the Future brings together 14 artists working across a spectrum of mediums. From the polaroids of Andy Warhol to the tactile sculptures of Jesse Pollock, the exhibition highlights Capaldo’s profound connection to contemporary art and showcases his eye for the unexpected. With a lineup that includes emerging UK-based talents such as Rhea Dillon, Henry Curchod, and Remi Ajani, alongside established figures like Warhol and John Giorno, the exhibition is a seamless blend of the iconic and the new. Capaldo's personal investment in the theme is palpable. The exhibition concept, inspired by a piece Rafael Pavarotti penned for Vogue Italia in 2021, reflects on memory’s fluidity—how it isn’t locked in the past but continually reshapes our present and future. "Polaroids capture a moment in time, but in their blurriness, they also embody the nature of memories themselves," Capaldo explains, pointing to Warhol's polaroids as a poignant part of the show. The exhibition opens with two studies of orchids—a deeply personal tribute to Capaldo’s late partner, Kikka Cavenati, who shared a deep admiration for Warhol. Beyond the Warhols, visitors can experience a variety of works that challenge conventional representations of memory. Francesca Woodman’s haunting photography evokes a dreamlike quality, while John Giorno’s seminal installation, Dial-A-Poem , invites audiences into an interactive, spoken-word experience. The inclusion of Jesse Pollock’s towering sculptures—also featured in 16Arlington’s recent SS25 collection—further blurs the lines between fashion and art, merging the sensory with the conceptual. For Capaldo, curating Memories of the Future offered a shift from the fast-paced world of seasonal fashion collections. The year-long process allowed him to connect with the art world more deeply, forming relationships with the artists involved. "I’ve always loved beautiful things,” he says. “It’s amazing to see the world through their eyes and how they channel their emotional connection into their work." This interplay of personal memory, artistic interpretation, and fashion sensibility makes Memories of the Future more than just an exhibition—it’s a reflection of Capaldo’s broader creative vision. Just as he brings the avant-garde to the forefront of British luxury fashion, here, he does the same for contemporary art. With Memories of the Future , Capaldo invites us all to reconsider the role of memory in shaping who we are—and who we might become. Memories of the Future runs until October 19, 2024, at Frieze No. 9 Cork Street, London.

Frieze London 2024 is poised to once again be the highlight of the international art calendar, attracting collectors, curators, and culture aficionados from around the world. With its celebrated mix of contemporary and modern art, Frieze has become a destination where the cutting-edge meets the iconic, showcasing works from both emerging artists and household names. The fair has an undeniable influence on the global art market, setting trends and elevating fresh talent, while offering an unrivalled platform for established galleries to present their most coveted pieces. In this article, we’ve curated a selection of must-see works from this year’s fair. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene, these standout pieces are sure to captivate. From bold installations that push boundaries to intimate works with subtle storytelling, Frieze London 2024 promises an exciting and diverse experience, and we’re here to guide you through the very best it has to offer. Artist Award: Lawrence Lek London-based artist and filmmaker Lawrence Lek has been named the recipient of the 2024 Artist Award at Frieze London. In partnership with Forma, the award provides early- and mid-career artists with the opportunity to realize ambitious new commissions. Lek is known for his work exploring the moral dilemmas and creative possibilities of artificial intelligence, often infusing his digital world-building with dark humor and absurdist narratives. His 2024 work Empty Rider , for example, features the televised trial of a self-driving car after a botched kidnapping. For this year’s Artist Award commission, Lek has created Guanyin: Confessions of a Former Carebot , a multimedia installation that invites players into a meditative gaming environment where they uncover the story of a cyborg therapist developed to counsel other AIs out of existential crises. Born in Frankfurt and of Malaysian-Chinese heritage, Lek's work reflects global complexities—both real and virtual—through immersive narrative experiences. In Guanyin , players follow the titular carebot, named after the Buddhist goddess of mercy, as she examines Vanguard, the self-driving car from Empty Rider . The project draws inspiration from "walking simulators," video games focused on exploration and storytelling, with Guanyin’s voice guiding players through journal entries, corporate reports, and messages. This thoughtful and innovative work, selected by a jury of art professionals, continues Lek's exploration of AI’s emotional and social impact while pushing the boundaries of digital art at Frieze London 2024. Frieze Masters Donald Locke - Stand S18 Donald Locke (1930–2010) was a pioneering Guyanese artist whose interdisciplinary work spanned painting, sculpture, and ceramics, exploring the legacies of colonialism and racialization. At Frieze London 2024, Locke’s evocative Plantation Series will be on display, a body of work that remains as relevant today as it was when he first created it in the 1970s. These abstract pieces, composed of monochromatic grids, are powerful reflections on the plantation system's oppressive structures and Britain’s colonial legacy. This is a rare opportunity to experience Locke’s work first-hand, and a must-see for those interested in art that challenges historical narratives. Isabella Ducrot - Booth G07 Textiles and paper are the cornerstones of Isabella Ducrot’s practice. The former, worn directly on the skin, indicates intimacy and touch; the latter can contain and protect, as well as convey ideas, whether written or graphic. In both weaving and writing, pattern and repetition can give rise to unique expressions. From her extensive travels over four decades to many countries including Afghanistan, Iran, India, Russia, Tunisia, Turkey and Tibet, Ducrot has gathered a unique collection of textiles and paper dating from the 9th to the 20th centuries. She also holds a significant collection of baroque paintings. Though the artist herself only began painting (and writing) relatively late in life, motifs and elements from these collections now make their way into her work, at times glued, stitched directly or painted on to the image ground. Frieze London Ji Xin - Booth C20 Ji Xin (b. 1988), based in Hangzhou and Shanghai, creates large-scale portraits of ethereal women that blend Eastern and Western classical aesthetics. His imposing canvases, often featuring life-size figures with elongated limbs and oversized eyes, are set against elegant Art Deco interiors. Drawing on influences from the Italian Renaissance and Song dynasty painting, Ji’s serene, pastel-toned works explore themes of self-reflection and poetic contemplation. At Frieze London 2024, his tranquil, introspective pieces offer viewers a chance to engage deeply with the enigmatic figures and timeless grace they embody. Hew Locke - Booth C20 Hew Locke (b. 1959, Edinburgh) spent his early years in Guyana before returning to the UK, where he developed a distinctive practice that explores the symbols of power, colonialism, and cultural identity. His work draws from a wide range of sources, including royal portraiture, military history, and public statuary, often fusing his Caribbean and British heritage into multi-layered, politically charged pieces. By blending modern materials with historical references, Locke's works challenge viewers to rethink the cultural and societal symbols that shape our understanding of the world today. At Frieze London 2024, his witty and complex pieces offer a thought-provoking exploration of the legacies of empire and power. Dr. Esther Mahlangu - Booth C20 Dr. Esther Mahlangu is a trailblazer in the world of contemporary art, renowned for her vibrant, geometric abstract paintings rooted in the Ndebele tradition of South Africa. Her work has transcended its origins, taking traditional house-painting patterns and applying them to canvases, sculptures, and even automobiles, as seen in her collaboration with BMW. For over seven decades, Mahlangu has worked to preserve and innovate Ndebele art, blending cultural heritage with contemporary techniques. Her bold designs have captivated global audiences, earning her recognition from art collectors and celebrities alike. At Frieze London 2024, her vivid creations continue to bridge cultural history and modernity. Tom Wesselmann - Booth C20 Tom Wesselmann (1931–2004) was a leading figure in the Pop Art movement, known for his provocative and iconic depictions of everyday consumer culture and the female form. His early works in the 1960s incorporated collages of advertisements and magazine imagery, while his later series, such as Great American Nudes and Standing Still Life, explored sexual imagery and bold compositions on shaped canvases. Wesselmann’s art evolved throughout his career, culminating in his Sunset Nude series, which referenced the work of artists like Henri Matisse. His distinctive style and playful approach to form will be on full display at Frieze London 2024, inviting viewers into a colourful, bold world of Pop Art. Polly Apfelbaum - Booth C08 Polly Apfelbaum’s Red and White Potential (2023) at Frieze London highlights her signature exploration of color, texture, and feminist themes through new wall-mounted ceramics and a woven floor-based installation. The space features red and white striped walls, complemented by a handwoven rug made in Oaxaca, Mexico by Zapotec artisans, using traditional dyes. The rug’s imagery, taken from Apfelbaum’s The Potential of Women series, reflects her ongoing critique of gender inequality, drawing inspiration from a 1963 symposium that imagined a future for women while overlooking the real struggles of 1960s feminism. This installation beautifully merges craft, color, and concept. Shilpa Gupta - Booth C08 Shilpa Gupta’s Untitled (2023) explores the fluidity of time and the boundaries it imposes on both personal and political landscapes. Using the hourglass as a central motif, Gupta questions whether time should be rigidly divided into minutes and seconds, inviting viewers to consider the unconscious and imaginative realms where time blurs and definitions dissolve. Through this contemplative piece, she highlights how power and societal structures shape our psychological borders. At Frieze London 2024, Gupta’s work challenges us to rethink the ways in which we measure both the visible and invisible moments of life. Tacita Dean - Booth C08 Tacita Dean’s Depressed Painter (2024) is a poignant work on glass, created on a Victorian-era steam train window once owned by her late father. The piece, inspired by a Caspar David Friedrich drawing of a painter waiting for inspiration, features a canvas that acts as a mirror, reflecting the viewer back into the scene. Collaborating with a German glass foundry, Dean used layers of fired enamel to create a permanent drawing on the weathered glass. This work, to be shown at Frieze London 2024, exemplifies Dean’s deep engagement with drawing and its spontaneous, chance-based possibilities.

October in London is a symphony of cultural refinement and seasonal allure, where the city’s elegant charm reaches new heights. The golden hues of autumn drape the streets and parks in a soft, romantic light—Hyde Park and Kew Gardens are especially irresistible for a contemplative stroll. This is also the perfect moment to savor London’s architectural grandeur, from the regal halls of Buckingham Palace to the storied Tower of London. With fewer crowds, you can explore the British Museum or take in the latest cutting-edge art exhibitions with a sense of exclusivity that summer rarely affords. As the social calendar fills, October brings a wealth of unmissable events for those in the know. The BFI London Film Festival attracts an international crowd of cinephiles, celebrities, and industry insiders, while Halloween-inspired soirées and immersive experiences such as the London Dungeon offer just the right touch of theatrical indulgence. Culinary aficionados will delight in the seasonal flavors showcased in London's top restaurants, where autumnal menus pair beautifully with the city’s impeccable service and ambiance. For the discerning traveler, this is London at its most sophisticated. Culture Frieze London 2024 - 9th-13th of October Regarded as one of the most important contemporary art fairs globally, Frieze London unites some of the world's best galleries in Regent's Park. Expect bold statements, cutting-edge installations, and must-see artworks from leading and emerging artists. Celebrate Black culture and history during Black History Month with a series of free events, exhibitions, and live performances across the city. From music and art to educational talks, this month highlights the contributions of Black Britons and provides an inspiring celebration of heritage and history. Our recommendations include City of London: Slave Trade Money Trail Tour; Culture Mile BID Black History Walking Tour; or attend the Royal African Society’s annual film festival on the 25th of October. Take part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon: Run for great causes in the leafy surrounds of London's beautiful parks. 13 Oct Attend the Southbank Centre's London Literature Festival: See prestigious authors, rising literary stars and inspiring speakers. 22 Oct-3 Nov Immerse yourself in the cultural diversity of London at Diwali, the festival of lights: Experience exciting performances and activities in Trafalgar Square. 27 Oct Making a rukus! Black Queer Histories through Love and Resistance is heading to from 11 October, find our full coverage here . Halloween Clink Prison Museum and the Jack the Ripper Museum. Head up to Sky Garden to take part in their annual Halloween x Day Of The Dead shubz with a view. See a chilling performance of Henry James’ The Turn Of The Screw at the Coliseum theatre (October 11-31) – the story of which Netflix’s The Haunting of Bly Manor was based on! Catch a horror film at Rooftop Film Club in Peckham, which is showing Maxxxine, Scream, Joker: Foile à Deux and more throughout the month! Alcotraz immersive prison cocktail experience. The London Dungeon: Discover the terrifying history behind London at this must-see experience. Indulge at an unusual afternoon tea: Cast spells to retrieve your treats at Wands and Wizard Emporium or feast on a Sci-Fi Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel. Embrace family fun on the Belgravia Pumpkin Trail: Seek out the vibrant displays, take selfies and have a frightening amount of fun. Head to Halloween at Kew for a spooktacular celebration: See grinning pumpkins, flickering flames and a number of light installations at the famed gardens. Musicals and theatre shows See Elton John’s music adaptation of hit noughties comedy ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ Watch ‘Planet Earth III’ scored by a live orchestra Be dazzled by the show-stopping songs and technical wizardry of Wicked the musical at the Apollo Victoria: Witness the untold story of the witches in the Wizard of Oz. See the magical powers of Matilda at the Cambridge Theatre: Laugh out loud as the little girl from Roald Dahl's beloved book teaches the grownups a lesson. Belt your heart out to ABBA's greatest hits in Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre: See one of the longest-standing West End hits and sing at the top of your lungs! Catch the record-breaking Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre: See the show following its extensive run on America's Broadway. If glitz and glamour is your thing, witness the breathtaking Moulin Rouge! at the Piccadilly Theatre: Be transported to the legendary Parisian club in this dynamic spectacle. Take a trip back to where the saga started in Stranger Things: The First Shadow: See the untold story of Hawkins in 1959 in this smash-hit performance. Experience the longest running West End comedy in The Play That Goes Wrong: Prepare for plenty of belly laughs as this chaotic hit takes to the stage. Exhibitions Immerse yourself in famous works of art at Frameless: See famous paintings by artists such as Van Gogh, Monet and Cezanne brought to life at this immersive art gallery. See the past, present and future of motorsport at the Formula 1 Exhibition at ExCeL London: Discover interactive displays, curated rooms and never-before-seen memorabilia. Embark on a voyage to the moon with The Moonwalkers – A Journey with Tom Hanks at the Lightroom: Explore the tales behind the Apollo missions with powerful projections and audio technology. Inventing the Runway' at Lightroom The World of Tim Burton Don't missVan Gogh: Poets and Lovers at the National Gallery: This once-in-a-century exhibition showcases the world-famous artist's most celebrated work, from Sunflowers (1888) to Van Gogh's Chair (1889). 14 Sep-19 Jan Visit Expressionists: Kandinsky, Münter and The Blue Rider at Tate Britain: Discover the groundbreaking work of this talented group of artists, whose friendship produced some of the world's best paintings, sculptures and photography. Until 20 Oct Explore Discover Constable and The Hay Wain at the National Gallery: See the artist's iconic depiction of the rural British countryside that has influenced everyone from fellow artists to activists. Opens 17 Oct Venture to the heart of London to see Michael Craig-Martin at the Royal Academy of Arts: A key figure in British conceptual art, see his largest exhibition in the UK to date with sculptures, installation, painting, drawing and print. Until 10 Dec Discover Women Artists in Britain 1520-1920 at Tate Britain: Challenging what it meant to be a woman of the time, see the work of female creatives who dismantled stereotypes. Until 13 Oct See a rare glimpse into the past in A Silk Road Oasis: Life in Ancient Dunhuang: Discover the personal stories of those who lived, worked and worshiped in Dunhuang over 1,000 years ago. Wander the UNIQLO photography exhibition in collaboration with renowned Magnum Photos: Discover over 60 powerful images captured in Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Romania, that shed light on the incredible stories behind UNIQLO’s PEACE FOR ALL charity initiative. Until 31 Oct On the art scene, there’s a wealth of new exhibitions not to be missed, from a major new Hew Locke show at the British Museum, Holly Herndon and Mat Dryhurst’s AI installation ‘The Call’ at the Serpentine and a huge group exhibition of Indian art at the Barbican all open. Plus, it’s time for the annual iconic art fair Frieze to return, uniting some of the world’s best art galleries in one place. Concerts Check out British favourite pop-rock sensation Scouting For Girls: Hear hits such as She's So Lovely and many more. 10 Oct Witness piano mastermind Yiruma live in concert: Gaze in awe as the Korean sensation takes you on a journey with his emotional hits. 14 Oct See UK folk Legend Ben Howard in the flesh: Check out hit tunes such as Only Love and Promise. 23 Oct Catch Australian singer-songwriter Vance Joy at the OVO Arena Wembley: Catch famed hits such as Riptide and much more. 1 Oct Hear a blend of pop, R&B and afrobeats with Maleek Berry at 02 Shepherds Bush Empire: Catch the British-Nigerian recording artist on his limited tour. 17 Oct Enjoy dance-pop sensation Becky Hill at the OVO Arena Wembley: Check out The Voice alumni's dance-filled set. 24 Oct Food and drinks: Toast the return of London Cocktail Week: Sip on classic and new mixes at the world's largest cocktail festival, with events, discounts and tastings across the city. 3-13 Oct Or raise your stein at a London Oktoberfest: Celebrate Bavarian-style with live music, authentic German food and of course, beer at a number of venues across the city. Discover a new world at the Avora Cocktail experience Wingfest Try the ‘Luna’ pizzas from a brand-new Neapolitan food spot Octoberfest It’s time to whack out the lederhosen and start saying PROST! to random strangers in the street, because Oktoberfest season is well and truly underway. We’ve had our fun in brat summer, but Charli has told us that’s all over now so one can only assume it’s Bratwurst-tober now. There are brilliantly lively events to celebrate in London all throughout the month, so get ready for a Bavarian knees-up with live Oompah bands and plenty of beer 🍺The Official Camden Oktoberfest at the Electric Ballroom (October 5, 12, 19, & 26) 🍺German Gymnasium (live band on October 4, 11, 18, & 25) 🍺Between The Bridges (October 4, 5, 11 & 12) 🍺The Bermondsey Bierkeller (every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in October)

London in early October is a blend of crisp autumnal charm and cultural vibrancy, making it the perfect time to explore the city’s finest offerings. With fashion’s biggest players recently having left the capital post-London Fashion Week, the energy in the air is still palpable. Some of the city's most stylish venues and exclusive experiences continue to buzz, offering everything from sophisticated art exhibitions to culinary indulgences. Whether you’re after an inspiring afternoon at the gallery or a night of chic dining and cocktails, the first weekend of October in London promises the discerning traveller an exceptional experience. Start your weekend by taking in the latest exhibit at the Royal Academy of Arts , where Impressionists on Paper brings together rarely seen works from private collections. This exquisite display runs from 10 AM to 6 PM daily, with late openings on Friday until 10 PM. Tickets can be purchased online via the Royal Academy website for £22. After your cultural immersion, take a leisurely stroll through Mayfair and explore the independent boutiques, which are still abuzz with new-season collections. Many of these boutiques offer private shopping appointments and curated selections that are quintessentially London. And if you feel peckish, make your way to Annabel’s , the members-only club in Berkeley Square, for an intimate dinner surrounded by glamour. Dinner reservations are available between 6 PM and 10 PM for members only, so if you’re a member, booking through their private system is a must. Alternatively, head to The Connaught Bar in Mayfair, an elegant hotspot with award-winning cocktails. Open daily from 4 PM to 12 AM (1 AM on weekends), it’s the perfect place to relax before heading out for a night on the town. Reservations can be made through the Connaught Bar website. Barbour Pop-Up in Covent Garden For a dash of British heritage, stop by the Barbour Pop-Up in Covent Garden , open from 10 AM to 6 PM over the weekend. Barbour’s ‘Icons in Quilting’ exhibition celebrates 30 years of the iconic Liddesdale jacket, with restored and reimagined pieces from notable designers like Paul Smith and David Gandy. Don’t miss the playful contribution from Shaun the Sheep. Proceeds from the auction of these exclusive pieces will go to The Royal Countryside Fund. Visitors can also indulge in a branded coffee from Barbour’s British Land Rover café for a quintessentially British experience. No booking is required, and entry is free. The Showroom Edit by ELLE For fashion lovers, The Showroom Edit by ELLE promises a curated shopping experience. From Thursday, October 3 to Saturday, October 5, ELLE takes over 59 Greek Street in Soho, showcasing a mystery brand’s collection of wardrobe staples and statement pieces. Visitors will be treated to a digital subscription to ELLE, a surprise gift from the featured brand, and access to a coffee bar and live DJ sets. The event runs from 10 AM to 7 PM daily, and while tickets are free, pre-registration via Eventbrite is required. Secure your spot through ELLE’s website for what’s set to be a highlight of the fashion calendar. Chelsea Dog Day Chelsea Dog Day is a must-visit if you’re an animal lover, or simply want to experience one of London’s most charming community events. On Saturday, October 5, from 10 AM to 4 PM at Duke of York Square, Chelsea will transform into a dog-lover’s paradise. A curated dog market will feature brands like Hiro + Wolf and Caboodle, while King’s Dog Daycare offers complimentary dog photography and puppuccinos. Expert advice on dog handling will be provided by Chelsea Canines, and a charity raffle in partnership with Pets As Therapy will be held to raise funds. This day out is fun for the whole family (including four-legged friends) and entry is free, so no need to book—just turn up and enjoy. Batman Unmasked For superhero enthusiasts, Batman Unmasked is the event of the season, marking 85 years of Gotham’s dark knight. This immersive exhibition runs through the weekend at 79-85 Old Brompton Road in South Kensington, showcasing iconic costumes, vehicles, and props from Batman films spanning 1989 to 2022. Highlights include Robert Pattinson’s Batmobile and Christian Bale’s Batpod. Visitors can also navigate themed rooms like the Batcave and Rogues’ Gallery, where they’ll encounter legendary super-villains. The exhibition runs from 10 AM to 8 PM daily, and tickets start at £20, available through the Batman Unmasked website . Celebrate Oktoberfest For a Bavarian-inspired celebration, head to one of London’s Oktoberfest events. At Sambrook’s Brewery Taproom in Ram Quarter, Wandsworth, you can feast on pretzels, sausages, and steins of German beer while enjoying live music. Sambrook’s Oktoberfest runs from Friday, October 4 to Sunday, October 6, from 12 PM to 11 PM. Book a table via the Sambrook’s website . Alternatively, the newly opened Albert’s Schloss in Farringdon is offering a traditional keg-tapping ceremony, sausage-eating contests, oompah brass bands, and generous giveaways (200 free pints each day!). Their Oktoberfest festivities start on October 3, and entry is free, but reservations for larger groups are recommended via Albert’s Schloss website . For a more authentic Oktoberfest experience, check out Munich Cricket Club ’s three London locations—Victoria, Canary Wharf, and Tower Hill—which are hosting weekenders complete with Bavarian games, live music, and giant kegs of German beer. Entry is £15, and booking can be done via the Munich Cricket Club website . London Cocktail Week For those indulging in London Cocktail Week during the weekend of October 5th and 6th, some of the most exciting events offer a delightful blend of history, innovation, and flavour. One unmissable highlight is the collaboration between Lyaness on the Southbank and New York’s famed Dead Rabbit bar. On October 6th, this award-winning bar will transport you into a lively Irish-themed evening filled with signature Dead Rabbit cocktails, live music, and traditional food, creating the perfect mix of New York energy and Irish hospitality right in the heart of London. If you’re a fan of sophisticated cocktails with a side of charm, this is the place to be, and with free entry, it's bound to draw a crowd. For something a bit more intimate and hands-on, Martin Miller’s Gin Masterclass at Opium & Dim Sum Parlour in Chinatown on October 6th is a can’t-miss opportunity. Led by the brand’s ambassador, this immersive session will dive deep into the art of martinis. You’ll learn about everything from perfect temperatures to the intricate flavor profiles of gin, while sipping expertly crafted cocktails. With two sessions running at 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., this event is perfect for those looking to elevate their cocktail knowledge in a stylish setting. Tickets range from £40 for wristband holders to £50 for non-holders. If you're more of a cocktail connoisseur looking to explore the beating heart of London’s bar scene, the Soho Cocktail Tour on October 5th and 6th promises to be a sophisticated adventure. This guided walking tour of Soho will whisk you through the area’s most iconic and trendy bars, giving you an insider’s look into the history of cocktail culture while sampling some of the best concoctions London has to offer. At £130, it’s a pricier option but includes tastings and expert commentary that will leave you with new favorite spots and an enhanced appreciation for mixology.

Beauty advent calendars have become one of the most coveted holiday essentials, offering a daily dose of indulgence that beauty lovers can’t resist. For 2024, the selection is more dazzling than ever, with brands pulling out all the stops to create calendars packed with luxe skincare, fragrances, and makeup treats. From established names to newer boutique brands, this year’s offerings make it hard to choose just one. But that’s exactly what makes these calendars such a thrill—every window opens to something surprising and indulgent. If you’ve been eyeing a splurge-worthy gift (for yourself or someone else), advent calendars are the perfect way to try out top-tier beauty products without committing to full sizes. Many of the biggest names in luxury beauty have released limited-edition collections that offer exclusive or hard-to-find items. We’re talking about cult-favorite serums, luxurious face masks, and iconic lipsticks all neatly packaged in chic, Instagram-ready designs. The countdown to Christmas has never felt so decadent. This year's top picks go beyond the typical offerings, introducing unexpected pairings and thoughtful curation that will delight even the most seasoned beauty enthusiast. Whether you’re after a skincare refresh, a makeup overhaul, or just some daily excitement leading up to the holidays, these calendars offer it all. The hardest part? Deciding which one deserves a spot on your vanity. The Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar Benefit The Gorgeous Grocer Advent Calendar Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Treasure Chest of Love Kiehl’s Limited Edition Holiday Advent Calendar MAC Gift of Gold 2024 Lookfantastic Beauty Advent Calendar Elemis Beauty Advent Calendar Harvey Nichols Beauty Advent Calendar Cult Beauty Beauty Advent Calendar Space NK Beauty Advent Calendar Sephora Beauty Advent Calendar Fortnum & Mason Beauty Advent Calendar Clarins Beauty Advent Calendar Augustinus Bader Beauty Advent Calendar Next Beauty Advent Calendar Glossybox Beauty Advent Calendar