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Marques Almeida returned to London Fashion Week and presented their newest collection based around the idea of discovery and exploration. The brand has tirelessly tried to keep reinventing itself as the fashion world has adapted to moving faster than ever before and has recently launched REM'ADE out of surplus materials - a social responsibility and environmental manifesto earned from artisans through M’AKERS, had models walk through suspended bridges over the mountains and over the ocean, published See-Through to enhance community and radical empathy, united the Porto young creative community and welcomed M’A Kids into their diverse family of people. The collection reflects new explorations of volume in heavy satin, structured shapes in outerwear, extreme, sometimes couture like, developments with frills and organza and classic M’A shapes in newer lustrous brocades.

Step into the vibrant realm of Paris Fashion Week, where the fashion landscape undergoes a radical evolution. This season, a seismic shift is palpable, steering away from the transience of trends and steering toward a renewed emphasis on luxury, quality, and timeless allure. We've handpicked the coolest coats to add to your wardrobe today, from the runways of favourites like Louis Vuitton, Amiri, Dior, Valentino, and other global trendsetters. At the Dior menswear show we find two interesting coats - one is a more utilitarian but with extended sleeves, the second has an embellishment across the waist which is a new take on menswear bringing it into a more genderless space. The two coats below from the Givenchy show are equally beautiful and unique in their own rights - one has an amazing texture with the lace reproduced using a wool type of outerwear material; and the second has an incredible cut bringing in a powerful silhouette. Martine Rose Hermes Loewe It clearly never rains or snow at the Loewe runway shows as most models had forgotten to wear a shirt under their Winter coats. This however, doesn't stop the individual pieces from looking incredible - one of them is a more daring response with a crochet floor length jacket, and the other being a more subtle oversized at the shoulders black coat. Dries Van Noten Paul Smith

On the opening night of London Fashion Week, the designer Kanika Goyal presented his new collection for KGL titled “Arc Echo”. It explores fragmented memories and identity, through interweaving past and future experiences, while playing with the principle of paradox. Arc Echo is brought to life through a visual London Fashion Week presentation. Perspex, mesh and vinyl immortalise the passage of time; showcasing the disparity between our past and future selves. Channeling perceptions within the dream realm, obscured acrylic screens fuse identities through a lineup of 16 key looks. Tasked with exploring what it means to look at multiple versions of oneself, the collection is inspired by the transformative qualities of dreams, evoking a familiar sense of déjà vu’. Garments fuse bold design and primary colours, interweaving different facets of one’s personality to create a whole piece. Mosaic knits illustrate the complexity within our memories, bold, bright and pop-art in nature. A juxtaposition of harmony and chaos, rich inner worlds are reflected through hybrid blazers, jacquard knits and weaved denim. An ode to the designers fascination with human psychology, Arc Echo connects a disarray of thoughts and experiences through beautiful design, artistry and colour. Innovation and collaboration is key, questioning the rigid notions of tailoring with a considered approach to materials. Fabrics honour Indian craftsmanship, uplifting local artisans in New Delhi for embroidery excellence. Surplus fabrics from mills are repurposed, uniting the old and new in a nod to Kanika’s heritage and upbringing. Jackets and trousers are weaved from thin strips of deadstock denim, dresses are patched from unused pieces. Materials honour past collections, sharing resources to reduce environmental footprint. A hero, upcycled, denim two-piece is personified by its stand-out mosaic nature. Quality belts, bags, accessories and trims are crafted in surplus leather offcuts, procured from remaining factory stock. Kanika provocatively infuses deep values of circularity, repurposing and social uplift into the creative process. Stereotypes and perception are deconstructed with a free-spirited attitude to fit and design. Experimenting with laminated crushed leather, cracked-bonded and creased taffetas see’s a fresh take on traditional shirting. The jewel in the collection is the ‘Gurmukhi’ dress; an intricate, fully embellished, shattered design with the brand monogram presented through the sacred Gurmukhi alphabet.

In a mediaeval and atmospheric setting, Mithridate’s Autumn/Winter 2024 collection Vita Aeterna, was brought to life. This season, Creative Director, Demon Zhang, explores themes of individual existence and diverse forms of coexistence between humans and nature in three parts: Time, Identity and Fate. Commencing with the theme of Time, notable elements encompass opulent velvets, metallic finishes, embellished embroidery, and intricate three-dimensional floral patterns. Shifting to Identity, the creative inspiration derives from enigmatic marine creatures bathed in crimson, coral pink, and rose gold, incorporating leather weaves, meticulously hand-cut flowers, chain hardware, and intricate rhinestone embellishments. The concluding concept, Fate, centers around cool moonlight tones reminiscent of shattered glass, effortlessly blending surreal elements into modern fashion, all the while reflecting on the interplay between fantasy and destiny. The brand continues to embrace the "More is More," spirit, with Mithridate’s iconic Moth motif threaded throughout via pattern, accessories and shape. Meanwhile, elements such as juniper, beetles, coral and bees, are skillfully integrated into the stitching with both innovative and artisan techniques, as well as mimicking the human body, forming a metaphorical representation of the complex connection between the body, nature and life. Highlights Highlighting some standout pieces from the collection, notable looks include an asymmetrically cut embellished jacket in black and silver, complemented by a floor-length scarf in deep sea blue wrapped around the neck. Another striking ensemble features a metallic gold gown adorned with meticulously hand-cut flowers. Additionally, there is a captivating set featuring a zip-up deep blue jacket adorned with floral motifs, paired with a mermaid tail skirt that gracefully follows the body's contours and extends out, creating an intricate and flowing silhouette.

London is a Michelin star studded bustling playground for some of the best known chefs in the world, and every year we all franticly search the web to discover a list of top openings where we can take friends and dates to. Here's your call to find your favourite restaurant and book your spot as soon as booking is available. Clap, Knightsbridge Having already received widespread international acclaim in Beirut and Dubai, CLAP is now making its European debut in the vibrant heart of Knightsbridge. Recognized for its exceptional Japanese cuisine, CLAP consistently earns a place on the prestigious World's Best Restaurants list for the Middle East and North Africa. Josephine, Chelsea Scheduled to open its doors in early 2024, Josephine is the latest culinary venture by Claude Bosi, situated in Chelsea. Embracing the essence of a Lyonnaise bouchon, the menu pays homage to Bosi's roots in Lyon, his family's bistro in the city, and his sentimental connection to the region. Diners can anticipate a classic Lyonnaise menu, reflecting the influence of Bosi's formative years in a province widely regarded as the epicenter of French cuisine. The Cocochine, Mayfair Tim Jefferies, owner of Mayfair’s Hamiltons Gallery, and Chef Larry Jayasekara have opened The Cocochine in Bruton Place, London. They restored and renovated a historic property, approaching it as custodians. The restaurant focuses on personal connection and old-school hospitality, with no online bookings. The Cocochine celebrates art and craftsmanship, featuring a 28-seat main dining room with thoughtful lighting and a mosaic-covered first level housing a chef's counter. The second floor, dedicated to private events, retains original features, including a fireplace, and showcases curated artwork. The space accommodates up to 14 guests for a private and elegant dining experience. Arlington, Mayfair Scheduled to open in early 2024 in Mayfair's St. James's, Arlington is a revived version of the iconic Le Caprice, once a legendary dining spot frequented by notable figures like Princess Diana and Elton John. Situated on the former site of Le Caprice, the restaurant is under the direction of Jeremy King, one of the original owners of Le Caprice. Arlington aims to bring back old-world glamour, offering a timeless menu featuring transatlantic favorites, salads, crustacea, and steaks, promising a dining experience infused with the spirit of its legendary predecessor. The Park, Holland Park Bellazul, Marylebone Mediterranean-inspired cuisine is currently a culinary sensation in London, and Bellazul is the second restaurant opening in February to embrace this trend. Helmed by Simone Serafini, former Head Chef of Cecconi's Mayfair, Bellazul's opening menu features enticing dishes such as Moroccan lamb tagine and lobster, complemented by a Mediterranean-inspired wine list. Of special interest is the Bellazul Martini, which captivates with its unique infusion of focaccia into the gin base. Mistress, Mayfair In February 2024, Mayfair will welcome Mistress, a new French restaurant and members club hidden below street level. Inspired by historic clandestine tunnels, this subterranean venue offers refined French cuisine with shared delicacies like lobster rolls, oysters, fillet mignon, and truffle-infused French fries. The dining experience includes a roaming Champagne trolley, classic cocktails, and an outstanding wine list, providing an exclusive and hedonistic atmosphere in the heart of Mayfair. Jullie's, Holland Park Established in 1967 by interior designer Julie Hodgess, this renowned restaurant and champagne bar, frequented by A-listers, boasts the famous booth G3, affectionately called 'the G-spot,' tucked away in a curtained alcove for VIPs. Hosting Kate Moss's seventeenth birthday and bearing marks from Tina Turner's high heels on a dancing table, Julie's was an iconic spot until Timothy and Cathy Herring sold it in January. Now, Holland Park local and Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef Tara MacBain has taken the reins, with plans to transform it into a modern French brasserie. MacBain, a former patron, aims to revive Julie's effortless elegance with a glamorous menu featuring seafood towers, oysters, and a martini trolley offering tableside cocktails. Akira Back, Mayfair Korean-born, Colorado-raised Chef Akira Back, renowned for his Michelin-starred expertise, introduces his first UK venture, seamlessly blending Japanese and Korean influences. With a menu inspired by his heritage and global travels, the restaurant offers all-day dining, featuring Asian dishes and international classics for breakfast. Chef Back's 'greatest hits' include crafted Bento Boxes for lunch and delicate snacks for dinner, all highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced locally. Simpson's In The Strand, City

Today BST Hyde Park announced the exciting line-up of high profile artists to be performing at the festival through the Summer. Tickets are now live! SZA - 29th of June, Saturday The festival will open up with SZA on the 29th of June, Saturday. SZA is joined by special guests Sampha and Snoh Aalegra, with full lineup TBA. Kings Of Leon - 30th of June, Sunday Nashville’s finest head back to London! The Grammy Award-winning Kings Of Leon will headline on Sunday 30 June, with special guest Paolo Nutini and support from The Vaccines with full line-up TBA. Kings Of Leon say: “The UK has always been a special place to us. We’ve played some of the most memorable shows here and this is where we met some of our first international fans. So after a year of hard work in the studio, we’re very excited to be back on the road and we’ll see you this summer, London.” Morgan Wallen - 4th of July, Thursday Chart-topping country sensation Morgan Wallen will perform on Thursday 4 July, with full line-up TBA! Morgan Wallen continues to reign as one of Country’s top touring artists. Wallen’s 57-show 2023 One Night At A Time World Tour delivered the man the New York Times dubbed “one of the biggest stars in pop, period" to fans worldwide, and Wallen will bring the show to BST Hyde Park for the first time this summer. Andrea Bocelli - 5th of July, Friday Andrea Bocelli, one of the finest classical artists of our generation, will be gracing The Great Oak Stage at American Express presents BST Hyde Park 2024 on Friday 5 July for the largest outdoor classical concert of this century! Robbie Williams - 6th of July, Saturday We’re excited to announce pop icon Robbie Williams as your next American Express presents BST Hyde Park headliner! This is one UK exclusive show that you won’t want to miss. Shania Twain - 7th of July, Sunday Iconic global superstar, Shania Twain, will take the stage on Sunday 7 July for her BST Hyde Park debut. Joining the line-up are special guests The Corrs, with more names to be announced. Stevie Nicks - 12th of July, Friday The legendary singer, songwriter and storyteller Stevie Nicks will perform on Friday 12 July, with the full line-up to be announced “Anything that draws me back to London ~ and therefore to England ~ fills my heart with joy. And to be able to visit and make music… is always a dream come true…” says Stevie Nicks. Kylie Minogue - 13th of July, Saturday Music icon Kylie will take to the stage on Saturday 13 July, with the full line-up to be announced. Kylie says: “I can’t wait to return to BST Hyde Park this summer. My last appearance at this iconic event was in 2015 and it was a truly unforgettable experience. So excited to see you all again!” Stray Kids - 14th of July, Sunday Calling all K-pop fans, we have exciting news! Stray Kids are coming to London for a UK exclusive performance at American Express presents BST Hyde Park on Sunday 14 July 2024.

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, we thought we will give you a list of ideas on how you can celebrate it your own way, even if you are single. Watch an Anti-Valentine movie, which will make you glad you are single. Our recommendations are: Legally Blonde - it's Reese Witherspoon’s tour de force as Elle Woods, a California blonde who makes it her mission to attend Harvard Law School as a fuck you to her ex-boyfriend. Plus, only a monster can be sad while Jennifer Coolidge is bending and snapping. First Wives Club - A 1996 feminist revenge film, First Wives Club brings together Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Keaton as reunited college friends with a vengeance for their ex-husbands. Galentine's Day Thrifting - There's nothing more thrilling than the hunt for a good fit, especially on the day when all the love birds are walking around shamelessly parading their affection. Places like King's Road and Nottin Hill come to mind. Go for brunch with your besties - Bottomless prosecco is the only way one should be celebrating life to be honest. I dare you to convince me otherwise. Grab a chocolate cake and watch Netflix in bed - opt in for a more relaxed evening. Manifest - If you ask my friend, he'd say the New Year starts in February, so practically this is the right time to manifest your 2024. Get your crafting kit out, and start cutting and putting together a vision board. What does that juicy future of yours look like in your dreams? Book a spa hotel - Experience the best of both worlds - Enjoy a staycation, and why not combine it with a spa day out, after all, it's Valentine's Day - you have to treat yourself. Head to your nearest bookstore - Books are making a strong comeback this year, despite never really going out of style. After the digital dominance, people are returning to old-school joys like browsing bookstores for a perfect V-Day date for solo book enthusiasts.

Haute Couture is arguably one of the most extravagant events that take place in Paris and mark the beginning of Women’s Fashion Week across the globe. Show stopping dresses making headlines and taking over our social media feeds are leaving us gasping for air, especially after a glance at the pricetag of these remarkable creations of fashion. You can also check out our article - What celebrities wore to Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. Schiaparelli Elsa Schiaparelli’s uncle Giovanni Schiaparelli discovered a series of channels, scoring the surface of Mars, and was the director of the Brera Observatory, in Milan. With that, she had an unhidden interest in Astrology which she often referenced through her work. This alien aesthetic is the inspiration for the Spring/Summer couture collection designed by Daniel Roseberry. It’s “a study in contradictions — of legacy and the avant-garde, of the beautiful and the provocative, of the earthbound and the heaven-sent. The result are a series of profiles both familiar and not — part human, part something else. And, therefore, totally Schiaparelli. “ - Daniel Roseberry. Vaishali S Vaishali S Couture Spring-Summer 2024 is a celebration of freedom of expression and individualism. Three seasons ago Vaishali became the first Indian woman invited to showcase at Haute Couture Week in Paris, and her work has become a strong turn point in this cycle. This new season is the realisation that there is no distinction between nature and human, human is a part of nature, and this is shown through the gowns which remind us of foliage, intricately cut and sewn into fabric which beautifully curves around the body. Dior Artist Isabella Ducrot’s installation, Big Aura , adorns the walls of the room hosting the presentation of the Dior haute couture collections in the Rodin Museum gardens. The designer decided to trace aura through the House’s haute couture history which embodies the essence of fashion and ultimate excellence. The La Cigale dress – designed by Christian Dior for autumn-winter 1952 – evokes the sacredness of the Atelier through its sculptural construction and moiré fabric, thus becoming the starting point for a theory that recontextualizes couture. A fragile boundary between art and life. Black velvet dresses sublimate the look, flowing in motion, while a sumptuous feather cape rests on an embroidered double organza dress. The embroidery is like fragments of ancient poems unearthed, leading the imagination to meander. Rahul Mishra Giambattista Valli Alexis Mabille Departing from his usual vibrant jewel tones, Mabille delved into a refined colour palette featuring ivory, ballet pink, beige, moiré bronze, and brown, with strategic accents of black and red for added dramatic flair. This understated array of hues served as a backdrop for Mabille's intricate embellishments, showcasing all-over tone-on-tone embroideries, sequins, ostrich feathers, and his iconic oversized bows. The runway presentation commenced with a series of architectural gowns, characterized by meticulous tailoring and captivating draping. Crêpe and satin were skilfully transformed into sculptural masterpieces, gracefully embracing the female figure. The collection exuded elegance and charm, enhanced by asymmetrical necklines, billowing puff sleeves, and delicate lace embellishments that infused a sense of whimsy and romance. Julien Fournie Ronald van der Kemp Zuhair Murad Valentino Robert Wun

As Valentine's Day approaches, the quest for the perfect romantic surprise intensifies. For those grappling with ideas on how to create an unforgettable celebration of love, we've curated a list encompassing everything from lavish dining experiences at upscale restaurants to more laid-back dinner options. Additionally, we've included suggestions for events, exhibitions, and unique experiences scattered throughout the city, ensuring a diverse range of possibilities to make this Valentine's Day truly special. Pick a restaurant for a romantic Valentine's Day dinner with your loved one. Our top picks are: 14 Hills 14 Hills is a vibrant and versatile restaurant and bar located in the heart of London's Square Mile. Positioned on the 14th floor of 120 Fenchurch Street, the establishment offers stunning panoramic views of the city's iconic landmarks, including The Shard, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the River Thames. The name "14 Hills" is a nod to the breath-taking vista that extends as far as the eye can see from this elevated vantage point. The Oratory Nestled in a Grade II listed building, the five-star Milestone Hotel & Residences offers a luxurious and romantic escape, conveniently situated opposite Kensington Palace with captivating views across Kensington Gardens. Boasting a rich historical heritage and proximity to some of London's most iconic landmarks, the hotel provides couples with an intimate and elegant setting for a romantic evening, particularly in The Oratory. Clos Maggiore Situated in the bustling heart of Covent Garden, Clos Maggiore is a serene haven that draws inspiration from the chic country inns of Provence and Tuscany. The distinct interiors radiate an unmatched warmth and intimacy. The conservatory, adorned with cherry blossoms, boasts a fully retractable glass roof, providing a luminous and open dining ambiance during the summer. As winter arrives, the space undergoes a captivating transformation, with the soft glow of candles, starlight, and a crackling fire enveloping it in an enchanting and cosy atmosphere. Choose a wine tasting. We recommend: The Harvey Nichols Wine Flight for Two It's currently available for £55 for two people, it includes 6 wines from the Harvey Nichols' own label for 90 minutes and is served with light nibbles. Wine and Cheese Tasting for Two at Dionysius Shop Currently retailing at just £43, it comes with a selection of cheeses and 5 wines for two. Learn facts about wine and how to recognise different grapes and flavour notes. See a theatre play or a musical Cruel Intentions The creators of Heathers the Musical have a new production in store for us this winter and it comes in the form of a film-to-theatre adaptation. Introducing Cruel Intentions, the new must-see experience based on the Reese Witherspoon-starring 90s hit. Stranger Things: The First Shadow The stage adaptation of the Television hit, Stranger Things. Set in the 1959 version of Hawkins Indiana, Stranger Things: The First Shadow tells the story of fan-favourite characters Henry Creel, Jim Hopper, Bob Newby, and Joyce Maldonado through a thrilling prequel that may or may not hold the key to stopping the ongoing spread of the upside-down… The Picture Of Dorian Gray Watch as Golden Globe-winner Sarah Snook returns to London in The Picture of Dorian Gray starting in February. Snook takes on every role in this gripping, witty and vibrantly contemporary production that breathes new life into Oscar Wilde’s classic tale. Book a couples spa day. Our recommendations Mondrian Shoreditch: The Winter Couples Retreat Package Mondrian Shoreditch offers a luxurious experience. You’ll receive a Lola’s Apothecary gift box with massage oils, scented candles, body soufflés, and wellness teas to take home. While you might not replicate the hotel’s rooftop V-day menu, the 45-minute couples massage is heavenly. Bulgari Hotel London: The Couples Ritual It includes a 120-minute Cleanse and Clarify Body Ritual in their private Onyx Spa Suite. After the treatment, relax in the Bulgari’s scenic pool. Rosewood London: The Sense of Connection The Sense of Connection package includes an hour-long massage, an hour-long facial, and time in the private steam room. Ideal for time-poor couples looking for blissful relaxation.

Banke Kuku Is a Nigerian brand which at the end of October presented their Spring/Summer collection titled "Eden". A runway show in Victoria Island, Lagos, marks a new direction for the brand, focusing on craftsmanship whilst elevating the mainline with new seasonal prints. The collection is inspired from Lagos' stunning fauna and flora which the designer - Banke, will admire while on her near-meditative morning walks. It draws on classic silhouettes that effortlessly accentuate the female figure. Eden SS24 features an array of styles. A few of the more interesting pieces in the collection are a pair of relaxed trousers and a top, with a cape featuring a stunning purple and white print of flowers and hummingbirds; a long yellow silky gown with a velvet trimming, styled with ombre silky monogram shorts; for men - a relaxed co-ord look featuring a relaxed silky blazer in a leaf pattern in contrasting blue and green styled with relaxed trousers and loafers in the same pattern. Nature serves as a consistent theme in both the prints and designs of Banke Kuku's collections. Intertwined with the brand's ongoing commitment to impactful work. Through the platform 'Prints for Purpose,' Banke actively supports local causes like the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, contributing donations to preserve natural wildlife in Nigeria. The prints in the collection narrate captivating stories of plants and animals native to Nigeria, such as hummingbirds whispering to Bougainvillea or ladybirds amid the Yellow Trumpet, Nigeria's national flower. The brand's new signature monogram features colors inspired by natural elements—earth, water, fire, and air. This fusion of nature and creativity defines Banke Kuku's unique approach to fashion, reflecting both style and a commitment to environmental causes. You can purchase the EDEN collection online at www.bankekuku.com , farfetch.com, modaoperandi.com, and Threads.com. Additionally, the collection will be available in-store at B1–B3, 2 Alexander Road, Ikoyi Lagos, and Galeries Lafayette Doha. About the designer: Now Lagos-based, Banke Kuku studied her craft in London, graduating from the prestigious Chelsea College of Art and Design and Central Saint Martins before returning to her native Nigeria. From Lagos, she has built an impressive repertoire as a leading designer, dressing A-listers and creatives, including Gabrielle Union, Davido, Naomi Campbell, and Kelly Rowland. Dedicated to amplifying the beauty and intricacies of African culture and practices, Banke has been a prominent voice on the world stage. In June 2023, Kuku was a guest judge on the BBC One’s programme The Great British Sewing Bee, sharing traditional West African sewing values with the contestants and viewers, and her work has been featured in Vogue, WWD and Marie Claire.

Arguably one of the most anticipated fashion shows of the global men's schedule is at Louis Vuitton, and all the eyes are on Pharrell WIlliams, who is presenting his third collection for the superbrand. Upbeat tribal music opened up the show and models started walking down the runway, which was set in a Mid-West village in the mountains during Winter time. Gigantic Louis Vuitton trunks were wheeled throughout the collection showcasing new colour combinations of the season. Of particular interest were heavily ornamented pieces throughout the collection and their more utilitarian and formal aesthetic, silky shirts, blazers and jacket, taking the Louis Vuitton brand away from the streetwear realm that it so conveniently inhabited for the past 8 years. Double denim was featured on multiple instances during the collection which references workwear, and as a styling component, there were chain necklaces and big pendants with a huge LV monogram. To create a bit more a silhouette, and break the double denim, the looks are styled with brown leather belts, brown leather jackets, or bags. Titled Paris x Virginia, it is an interesting clash between high European luxury and more traditional and classical Western fashion which was trying to fit in between tailored suits with sneakers and fur coats with Charleston trousers and cowboy boots.