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

Sloaney Events: Explore authentic 'Country Heritage' at Farlows

The Sloaney was recently invited to preview the Autumn/Winter collection at Farlows on Pall Mall.

This provided the perfect opportunity to explore one of this season’s most influential trends, ‘Country Heritage’.

Farlows is a haven amongst the busy streets of London for country enthusiasts and the department store is committed to helping you enjoy rural pursuits. With Royal status, it is little wonder that Farlows regularly welcomes the likes of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Among Kate’s favourite items in the store is the luxurious selection of bags.

She reportedly purchased one from the collection and The Sloaney was particularly impressed with the Tusting Gladstone Tourer Bag (£565). Ideal for a weekend away, this stylish holdall is fitting for British heritage fashion and the classic accessory will no doubt feature as a timeless piece in your wardrobe.

Country fashion is not only for rural surroundings and there were many key pieces that could be worked into a city wardrobe. For example, the Farlows Cotswold Field Coat (£449.95) has a baggy fit and would look stylish over a pair of skinny black jeans and the Mulberry shearling boots that featured in Sloaney Style earlier this week.  

Tweed remains a key textile this season and Farlows stock an authentic short tweed jacket (£279), which will create a chic silhouette. To integrate it with your current wardrobe, you can match it with a plain shift dress and leggings to create a smart day look, which may also be worn into the evening.

For those planning a weekend away in the countryside, or if you simply want to keep your feet nice and dry from the city showers, the Dubarry Unisex Galway Boots  (£299) are both stylish and practical. The Sloaney suggests the Black Mahogany version for a regal twist.

STOP PRESS: VOTE 'THE SLOANEY' TO STYLE FARLOWS WINDOW:

If you would like to opt for head-to-toe country attire, The Sloaney took part in the 'Farlows Style Challenge'. To see the look we created and to vote for us to dress the prestigious Pall Mall window display, please put your thumbs up and ‘like’ the following photo on the Farlows Facebook page:

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PHOTO

Sloaney People: The Duchess of Cambridge spices up her image in military inspired McQueen

The Duchess of Cambridge has stepped out to show her support to Birmingham following the recent riots. She visited the city with Prince William and met with local residents.

Kate opted for a more fashion forward outfit than usual and swapped her classic attire for a chic military inspired look. She again revealed her fondness for Alexander McQueen designs and this latest choice of outfit is possibly a reaction to recent criticism that her dress sense is too ‘ordinary’. Although she was still armed with her favourite style of shoe, Kate definitely spiced up her image today but has maintained her refined style that has proved so popular over recent months.

What do you think of Kate’s dress sense? Let The Sloaney know by leaving a comment…