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Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Sloaney Style: Chalet Chic


The Alps may not have received any snow yet, but those who have booked their winter ski holiday in Europe, or further afield, will be giving thought to their wardrobe. However, Chalet Chic is a trend that should not only be reserved for high altitude and as temperatures dip across the UK, this week’s Sloaney Style provides a great way to stay cosy and comfortable.

Create a classic base layer by teaming the elegant Michael Kors top (£419) with the ultra-comfortable skinny leg jodhpurs from the creators of the Duchess of Cambridge's favourite jeans, J Brand (£275).
The poncho is big this season and offers an edgy alternative to the traditional winter coat. This cashmere and merino wool blend version by Clare Tough (£875) is guaranteed to keep you nice and warm with the cream fringe providing beautiful detail. The Canadian Fox Fur Hat (£219)from Harrods will further highlight this subtle feature of the poncho.
Finally, these pony hair and leather snow boots by Chloe (£345) are simply divine. They are the ultimate chic winter footwear and will also look fabulous when worn with tights. 

Monday, November 28, 2011

Sloaney Lifestyle: Fight the Christmas bulge with Anti Cellulite Leggings


December is nearly here and a month of sin lies ahead. The healthy eating plan may as well be torn up and thrown in the bin. After all, with Christmas comes parties and with parties comes champagne, mince pies, mulled wine... even the Christmas tree is adorned with miniature chocolate treats.
Here at The Sloaney HQ we don’t want to spoil this rare month of justifiable over indulgence by bleating on about the ultimate detox just yet. However, we have discovered a secret weapon that will help you tackle the festive season with fitness in mind.



Last week we tried Slim Anti Cellulite Leggings, which have been developed by Proskins. We are always slightly skeptical of products claiming to give your figure a quick fix and were impressed when this garment suggested long-term changes; that’s what we like to hear!


This revolutionary fitness wear is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of cellulite and counts Danni Minogue as an ardent fan. The leggings can be worn during your workout and the density of the fabric also allows for them to be worn as daytime apparel wear. They are extremely comfortable and feel like a second skin. Here’s hoping they help fight the Christmas bulge.

Full length leggings cost £50 and are available from the Proskins Website 


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Friday, November 25, 2011

Sloaney Beauty: Kill those wrinkles with snake venom


The Sloaney's Beauty Editor, Halle Carlson, discovers an impressive alternative to Botox... 

Ladies, let's face it… we’re getting older. And it shows. 
I have a love-hate relationship with the idea of Botox. When I am experiencing hostile feelings towards the cosmetic procedure, I find myself determinedly researching a safe and less invasive solution. After all, there must be some way of removing those pesky wrinkles on my forehead so I can join the moon faced beauty brigade.

The closest I have come to finding an effective alternative is Skin Chemists’ Wrinkle Killer Snake Serum. Skin Chemists is a London-based company that offers ethical and clinically proven products.

During the last month I have been lucky enough to test their premium Wrinkle Killer.



This serum promises the elixir of life; younger, smoother looking skin that maintains its elasticity, without appearing frozen. The active ingredient in Wrinkle Killer mimics the Temple Viper’s venom – naturally my eyes lit up when I read this, doesn't it sound a fierce weapon?

For the best results, Skin Chemists recommends using the serum twice a day as part of your daily skincare regime. I massaged a pea sized drop into the skin on my forehead, crow’s feet, and smile lines.


It provided instant satisfaction and within seconds I could feel results. My skin felt incredibly taut, yet I still had enough flexibility and movement to make expressions.

Over the course of the last month I have noticed a dramatic improvement in the appearance of wrinkles. Not only have they released and become less noticeable, but my skin has become softer, more flexible and it has an improved glow.

Skin Chemists Wrinkle Killer Snake Serum is available online: http://www.skinchemists.co.uk 
Price: £119


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Contact Sloaney Beauty: beauty@thesloaney.com

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Sloaney Getaways: British luxury at the Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa


We continue our Sloaney Getaways series by exploring the very best of British luxury. The Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa in Surrey is situated within 123 acres of rolling parkland and the traditional country house is accompanied by one of the UK’s most prestigious spas.


What makes this retreat so appealing is that you can relax in beautiful countryside that is just 45 minutes away from central London. It is an ideal location for those wanting to enjoy a rural setting that is easily accessible from our capital. This hotel boasts award-winning dining, individually styled bedrooms and 45,000 square feet of pure spa heaven.



The Sloaney finds the ‘Martini and Manicure’ very appealing. You can gather your best girlfriends for a pre-Christmas spa day and unwind whilst your nails are prepared immaculately for the party season.


Those looking for a more extended stay before the festivities begin may want to take advantage of the ‘Sheer Sanctuary Sleep Over Spa’ package. Billed as the ultimate nuturing experience you can enjoy the Spa facilities and a blissful overnight stay in one the sumptuous rooms.

Martini and Manicure Day Spa: £130 per person
Sheer Sanctur Sleep Over Spa: Exclusive Suite available from £1585; other rooms starting at £420
Make a reservation by calling +44 (0) 1276 471774

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Sloaney Style: You shall go to the ball

The festive season is brimming with cocktail parties but our favourite occasion is always a glamorous ball. Whether it is white or black tie, Sloaney Style has created an outfit that is rich with electrifying glamour and draws on this season’s key trends.

Gold has proven influential on the catwalks and you can give yourself the ultimate Midas touch with this sensational long dress by Diane Von Furstenberg (£1.279). The plunging V neckline has been showcased by a number of style icons recently and the sweeping Grecian style of this dress will guarantee you turn heads.
Gold can be a challenging colour to wear with an air of sophistication. Sloaney Style recommends avoiding the diamond route and any overt sparkle; instead accessorise with this delicate Aurora Lopez Mejia 18-karat gold necklace (£6,210).
Introduce some contrast and enjoy the much celebrated python trend by exhibiting an exotic influence with this envelope clutch (Reed Krakoff £1,115) and striking Yves Saint Laurent heels (£735). Arrive to the ball in style by wrapping up warm with the shearling stole from Donna Karan (£1,585).

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Sloaney Fashion: The Sloaney’s Top 5 Most Influential British Siblings in Fashion


This month US Vogue announced the Olsen twins as the Best Dressed Women of 2011. Edgy and reactive choices positioned them ahead of the fashion pack and confirmed their originality. This year the sibling influence has never been more prominent and to recognise the force of family connections, The Sloaney has compiled a list of the Top 5 Most Influential British Siblings in Fashion.

Number 5
Savannah and Sienna Miller



Sienna and Savannah Miller have long been the focus of the spotlight. However, with a strong distaste for the paparazzi, Sienna is one of few to make a stand and took legal action against photo agency Big Pictures. She credits this decision with the heightened success of her acting career and an increased respect from high society movers. Her sister also shies away from the social spotlight, preferring a quiet life in the Gloucestershire countryside. Nevertheless, she is the brains behind label Twenty8Twelve and an established influence in the fashion world.


Number 4
Alex and Emma Watson



A similar retreat from the spotlight has earned Emma Watson credit. The Harry Potter star is now enrolled at Oxford University to complete her degree. One of few women to have a striking and delicate enough bone structure to carry off the shortest of crops, this actress has defied her age and experience by making a number of highly admirable fashion choices. The star was accompanied by her younger brother Alex in last year’s Burberry Campaign and the pair make for a dynamic style duo.


Number 3
Pippa and Kate Middleton



This year has been all about the Middletons. Kate Middleton became the Duchess of Cambridge in a Royal Wedding that was celebrated by the nation. Her style has been forensically observed and every detail analysed. With no obvious mistakes and her innate ability to mix high end with high street fashion, Catherine has pleased both the public and her critics more often than not. Pippa Middleton has been more daring with her choices; that red dress with a plunging neckline was hotter than our summer. Generally, both women earn praise for exhibiting classic tailoring and herald the return of traditional elegance.


Number 2
Cara and Poppy Delevingne


More accustomed to gracing the pages of Vogue than the daily press, the Delevigne sisters are stylish high society movers. The daughters of model Pandora, Poppy and Cara have both followed their mother into the industry and are on the books of Storm. They have appeared in numerous editorial shoots in recent years. Poppy is also a Chanel ambassador and quintessential British girl about town. A favourite of the Burberry campaigns, younger sister Cara cemented her position as an aspiring style icon when gracing the cover of the November issue of British Vogue.


Number 1
Lottie and Kate Moss


The number one spot in The Sloaney’s Top 5 Most Influential British Siblings in Fashion celebrates a remarkable career and an exciting future. Kate Moss is arguably one of the most powerful style icons in history and the model is a key influencer of trends. Needless to say, there was much excitement when her wedding heralded the emergence of a mini Kate. At the tender age of 13, Kate’s half sister Lottie Moss is currently being wrapped in cotton wool by Sarah Doukas - the agent who discovered Kate. Lottie has already completed a series of shoots and we look to the future with baited breath to see if she will emulate the remarkable career of her elder half sister.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Sloaney Beauty: The secret accessory that will turn heads during the Christmas party season

Beauty Editor, Halle Carlson, discovers an artistic beauty treat...
If you already have your Christmas party outfit planned to perfection but need to add a striking finishing touch, Sloaney Beauty has found the perfect accessory. Although eyelash extensions are not always synonymous with sophistication, PAPERSELF is a fresh and edgy range that is sure to draw the spotlight to your eyes for the right reasons.  


The Sloaney was won over by the brand at a recent catwalk show in The Club at The Ivy. Since their introduction to the beauty scene, PAPERSELF has made a dramatic impact in the industry and bring intricately cut patterns and pretty designs to your eyes. Although they are not for everyday wear, PAPERSELF lashes will give your party look a unique edge this season by transforming your eyelids into a work of art.

The first collection - inspired by 19th century French silk bobbin lace - was showcased in the Victoria and Albert museum and displayed the intricately cut Lace Garden range. All of the subsequent collections are culturally infused and designed with beautiful story-telling details and symbolic meaning.
The lash designs feature visual aesthetics such as lace, birds, deer, peacock and horses. The attention to detail will leave admirers enthralled and this look is ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with playful trends.
PAPERSELF are available as individual or small lashes to accentuate the outer corners of your eyes. They are also available as regular, full-strip lashes for a more dramatic result. PAPERSELF lashes are available online at www.paperself.com

- Halle Carlson, Beauty Editor
Email your beauty news to beauty@thesloaney.com

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Sloaney Style: Mix textures and dress to impress in contemporary winter glamour


In recent years sequins have become a recurring trend and are especially prominent during the festive period. As party season approaches Sloaney Style suggests the time has come to shimmer under the moonlight and embrace this glamorous look. 



A Little Black Dress is a wardrobe essential and this sequin and bead-embellished LBD by Anna Sui (£440) will give your party portfolio a dazzling update. The 20s style is both versatile and timeless.
To add a contemporary edge you can team it with black tights and these fabulous velvet stud ankle boots (£265). Not only does this footwear make a decadent statement but it gives some extra height to ensure you stand out from the crowd.
Experiment further with luxury textures by opting for this beautiful leather and shearling jacket (£1,520)from the Mason collection by Michelle Mason. Finally, complement the overall look with this Chloe clutch (£240). The soft suede and leather combination reinforces the tactile appeal of this outfit.  

Monday, November 14, 2011

Sloaney Getaways: A winter break in the Cotswolds


With Royal residents and superstars such as Kate Moss positioning the Cotswolds as one of England’s most fashionable areas, why not nip out of the city and enjoy a winter break in one of the most desirable counties in the country.


Cowley Manor is a beautiful 5* Hotel and Spa located in Gloucestershire. Approached through winding lanes, this luxurious and concealed venue is surrounded by acres of parkland, forests and meadows. The impressive country house exhibits an interesting combination of traditional and modern décor, with roaring fires situated in rooms inspired by contemporary interior design.


A highlight of this hideaway is the tranquil C-Side Spa. The two pools are simply stunning and the outdoor one will prove irresistible, even on a cold winter day. As you slip your body into the warm waters you can glide down the pool inhaling the fresh air and enjoy an instant sense of revitalisation. The pools are accompanied by a number of treatment rooms.


You can spoil yourself with a mid-week treat by escaping to Cowley Manor and enjoying their great ‘Spa and Stay’ offer. This includes an overnight stay along with two 30 minute treatments, a three course dinner and full breakfast. A number of rooms are available and the ‘Best Room’ even boasts an in-room bar.

Spa and Stay’ rooms start at £295 with the ‘Best Room’ available for £640.
To book simply email stay@cowleymanor.com

Friday, November 11, 2011

Sloaney Fashion: Kate Middleton heralds the return of the glamorous long dress

The Duchess of Cambridge was pictured wearing another stunning Jenny Packham gown last night when she hosted a dinner with the Duke at St James’s Palace for the National Memorial Arboretum Appeal. The Grecian inspired dress accentuated her slim waist and aptly highlighted her poppy.


Long hemlines are making a return this season and they are ideal for achieving a sense of high fashion glamour. The Winter Maxi Dress is a welcome supplement to a ball gown and allows for a modern take on this traditional style.
Here are The Sloaney’s Top Three Long Dresses:

This beautiful Roberto Cavalli gown will imitate the fluidity of Kate’s dress as the silk moves softly against your skin. The drop waist gives a nod to 1920’s sophistication and the floral print is very on trend. £1,780




The embroided tulle gown by Monique Lhuillier is simply exquisite and this is reflected by its price tag. The boned bodice and stunning detail epitomises traditional elegance. £13,500

The Duchess is a big fan of Issa and this halter neck maxi will add a pop of colour to your wardrobe this winter. £575

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Sloaney Beauty: The perfect plum pout will help transform your daytime look to evening glamour


Earlier this week, The Sloaney gave some fashion tips for the forthcoming party season and showed you how to style your outfit to take you from desk to dinner
Our newly appointed Beauty Editor, Halle Carlson, continues this theme by explaining how you can make a last minute transformation with a simple, yet dramatic amendment to your makeup.

One of my favourite ways to warm things up during the chilly winter months is to sport striking, rich lips. My most preferable hue this season is deep plum and exploring such a strong makeup trend also provides a quick and easy way to transform your look as darkness arrives.

Earlier this week I attended an art exhibition in Mayfair. After a hectic day, I had less than 30 minutes to take my look from office drab to sophisticated glam. I decided that it was time to coat my pout with one of this season’s most desirable shades.


Not only have dark lips recently taken centre stage on the catwalk but they have been showcased by a number of stars such as Miranda Kerr and Catherine Zeta Jones. 
Everyone can pull off this trend with the benefit of a few helpful tips.

When choosing to sport high impact lips you must always remember the golden rule: accentuate only one feature of your face and leave the rest very simple. Keeping your eyes natural will encourage all the attention to focus on your gorgeous pout.

A deep plum shade is guaranteed to add instant definition to your face and you will feel like you have walked straight off the catwalk, rather than out of the office. It is best to opt for a lipstick that has a slight shine and by steering clear of matte textures you will avoid a vampire-esque result.


One of the best tricks I have learnt from working with makeup artists over the years is to always couple lipstick - especially dark shades - with lip liner. You should colour your entire pout with the latter to create definition and provide a base coat for your lipstick. This not only helps it last longer but it will prevent undesirable smudges from spoiling the chic finish.

I tested this old trick at the art exhibition and I am delighted to report that I managed to enjoy sipping champagne without a single smudge; a necessity for lip wear on an evening out.

So, if you are caught unaware by an invitation to a drinks party, or simply fancy spoiling yourself by dining at your favourite restaurant; don’t forget to include plum lip colour in your hand bag. It is a quick fire way to add some festive glam and transform your daytime style.



Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Sloaney Lifestyle: Anyone for a glass of champagne?


The Sloaney is excited to introduce readers to a truly fabulous new accessory. No, we are not talking about the latest Birkin bag or Jimmy Choo heels to hit the shelves; believe it or not, we have uncovered something even better.
This accessory is timeless and there is no risk of overdoing it as a fashion statement because it's incredibly discreet. This exclusive item also reflects an air of sophistication that is apt for the modern woman.
Drum roll please as we introduce the pass to ‘Champagne for Life’.


Available as a sleek business card or iPhone App, those in possession of this luxury accessory can enjoy a complementary glass of champagne at a number of prestigious venues around the world…for life!
Simply flash the card on arrival and you will be presented with a perfectly poured flute of bubbles.
Can you think of a better way to start an evening? We certainly can’t; all hail Champagne for Life.

Champagne for Life is available for £500 and on purchase you will also be given a complementary card for a friend.  For more information, please click here
A Blackberry App is also due to be released soon. 

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Sloaney News: Halle Carlson appointed Beauty Editor

The Sloaney is delighted to welcome Halle Carlson as our newly appointed Beauty Editor. A resident of the King’s Road, Halle has been based in London for four years after completing a Masters in Media Communication. A former model, she is passionate and knowledgeable about Beauty.

As The Sloaney continues to grow and develop the team will bring you a wealth of Beauty news, including reviews of all the latest luxury treatments, spas and hair care.  
Email your beauty news to info@thesloaney.com with ‘Beauty’ in the subject line

Monday, November 7, 2011

Sloaney Fashion: Style advice to take you from desk to dinner!


With Halloween and Guy Fawkes Night behind us, the party season is about to begin with a bang. As Christmas approaches our diaries become even busier than normal with festive celebrations aplenty. Dressing to go straight from work to a drinks party - with no time for a pampering session at home beforehand - can prove a tricky task.
With this in mind, Sloaney Fashion has created an outfit that will help you move from desk to dinner in style.


The base piece for this look is a chic jacquard effect dress by Lela Rose. Opting for an elegant dress for daytime provides you with an aspect of versatility as you can easily add some extra pizzazz by accessorising the outfit as dusk arrives.
The blends of ivory and black enable you to keep the look simple, yet chic for work. Wear some black tights with these gorgeous thigh high boots from Chloe. The Antonio Berardi jacket has sequin-embellished sleeves that will give a hit of festive glamour to the look.
The black Mulberry Tote is a key part of this outfit as it provides you with a great work bag that is spacious enough to carry your evening accessories. By the end of the working day you can draw further on the hint of glamour reflected in the sequins on the jacket and enjoy a gold rush.


Swap the Chloe boots for these divine Givenchy sequin leather pumps that will sparkle late into the night. Add the chain embellished patent leather belt from Yves Saint Laurent and complement this by replacing the accommodating Tote with Mulberry’s bronze Bayswater Clutch.


Through accessories alone you can arrive at the office looking chic and businesslike, yet leave ready to dazzle at dinner.


The Sloaney's Top Tips for ‘Desk to Dinner’ Style

*Plan your two looks in advance*
*Remember the golden rule that accessories can easily transform your outfit*
*Pick an elegant dress as your base piece as it is easy to glam up come evening time*
*For a dramatic but easy way to change your overall look, opt for a different colour scheme at night*
*Take a work bag that is large enough to carry your evening accessories*
*Wear a glamorous overcoat or jacket to work; in the run up to Christmas you can easily get away with a hint of glamour at day time that will carry you through to after work hours*


Saturday, November 5, 2011

Sloaney Events: Luxury Bordeaux Wine Tasting at Bluebird


Bluebird Chelsea will be hosting a wine tasting evening on November 17th.  The contemporary venue courts a glamorous clientele and has become one of the most stylish places to be seen on the King's Road in recent years.


A number of luxury wines from the Bordeaux region will be on offer, along with some outstanding vintages. The tasting will be accompanied by a selection of food from Bluebird and wines will include:

Pomerol Chateau Pomeaux 2000
Pessac Leognan Chateau La Garde 2004
Margaux Chateau Cantenac-Brown 2004
Graves Chateau Rahoul 2005 (Magnum format)
Sauternes Castelnau de Suduiraut 2003 (dessert wine)

Book your place by calling 020 7559 1175 Tickets cost £25 per person

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Sloaney Beauty: The quick and easy way to having hair like the Duchess of Cambridge

Speculation has been mounting for some time as to whether the Duchess of Cambridge receives a helping hand with her fabulous bouffant through the use of a hair piece or extensions. Whether the flowing locks are entirely her own or given a subtle boost remains a well-kept secret.
One thing is certain; Kate Middleton has always been very reliant upon the skills of her hairdresser, Richard Ward. For those of you wanting to replicate her voluminous style, without having a daily blow dry, Harrods stock a high-end range of hair pieces by Vicki Ullah.


The Wig Boudoir is situated in the Urban Retreat section of the luxury department store where you can view a selection of synthetic or human hair extensions. An experienced stylist will help you make a suitable choice and although permanent extensions are available, The Sloaney recommends opting for a temporary hair piece.

A Vicki Ullah model shows off a tempoary hair piece 

After trialling both options, the main advantage of a temporary extension is that you can take it out when you don’t need the added volume. Therefore, you will have much more flexibility for styling your hair and following the latest trends. Not only can permanent extensions be difficult to wash, but they will also weaken your hair after time. By removing your hair piece as you please, you can give your own hair some respite and special treatment.
Consultations: £50
Human hair extensions: from £169

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Sloaney Style: Little Red Riding Hood


This year the ‘Colour Pop’ trend has continued throughout the seasons. Now the clocks have changed there has never been a better time to add some vibrant cheer to your winter wardrobe.
Red has featured heavily in the fashion circles over the last month and as we move towards Christmas it becomes an even more fitting colour to explore.

This week Sloaney Style has fallen head over heels for this beautiful statement coat by Versace (£3,205). The vivid colour will turn heads and the buckle detail adds a stylish twist. 
With such a powerful piece of coating, The Sloaney suggests basing your outfit around a simple staple item like this navy Prince of Wales check dress by Stella McCartney (£855).
Bright colours, clashing hues and a hint of burgundy are all prominent trends this season and you can explore all three with this latest look. The wine coloured knee high boots (£540) from Diane Von Furstenberg perfectly complement the miniature version of Mulberry’s iconic Bayswater Satchel (£825).