Sloaney Getaways: Spoil someone special in the opulent surroundings of the May Fair Hotel

As Christmas draws closer, The Sloaney is previewing some top destinations for a weekend break on our homeland. Our first review focused on Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa, which is a luxurious and secluded retreat situated in a beautiful Wiltshire estate.

However, you don’t have to venture to the countryside to seek relief from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are an array of London hotels that offer revitalising city breaks and the perfect opportunity to spoil someone special.  

The May Fair Hotel is situated right in the heart of exclusive Mayfair and offers a plush package, which will help you relax with your partner in truly opulent surroundings. Treat a loved one by spending an evening in a uniquely decorated suite and with a number of distinctive styles on offer, you can select a room to suit your mood.

On arrival you will be lavished with sumptuous gifts including a bouquet of red roses, chocolate dipped strawberries, a chilled bottle of Bollinger and a Jo Malone scented candle. Throughout your stay you will have full access to the facilities in this premium 5* hotel and can also indulge in an hour long massage treatment in the calm of the prestigious May Fair Spa.

To book this offer, contact the reservations team on +44 20 7769 4041

Price: £850 per room to include full English breakfast

Sloaney News: Photo- Me unveil new photobooth designed by Philippe Starck

Next Wednesday heralds the unveiling of a new photobooth designed by Philippe Starck at the Saatchi Gallery. This event marks a new generation of photobooth, which incorporates Augemented Reality Technology to captivate and interact with customers.

Philippe Starck has devoted his enthusiasm and creativity to the new booth which breaks previous design traditions, taking a functional object and transforming it into art. In addition to the new design aesthetic, the timeless and distinctive booth uses modern technologies and innovations to become a creative studio, ensuring you get a perfect picture every time. Users of the new booth will be able to access Facebook, Picasa, Flickr and email accounts to import existing images, as well as generate new art and photography.

STOP PRESS: The Sloaney will style the prestigious Farlows window display on Pall Mall

Yesterday The Sloaney received some exciting news; we have been announced as the winner of the Farlows Style Challenge!

As regular readers will know, The Sloaney was recently invited to compete along with some of London’s leading fashion bloggers and stylists for the opportunity to dress the prestigious windows on Pall Mall. Following a week of voting - which saw over 500 votes cast - The Sloaney was shortlisted alongside renowned style gurus Prince Cassius and Fritha Stuttard from Fish Tank Fashion. The shortlist was then critiqued by the Farlows Country Squire and each look was judged according to technical accuracy; style; inspired choice and effort.  

Needless to say, we are thrilled to win the challenge, especially in light of the high standard set by those invited to take part. We would like to extend our thanks to everyone who supported The Sloaney during the voting stage. Stay tuned as we will take all readers behind the scenes on this exciting styling project. 

Sloaney Fashion: Put some sparkle in your flat step

Not only have stilettos been growing dramatically in height over recent years but they have dominated the catwalks. However, with an increasing amount of press coverage highlighting the health hazards of tottering around in 6inch heels, along with several models suffering dramatic falls at fashion weeks across the globe, The Sloaney is forecasting a change of trend direction.

If you are worried about maintaining a level of glamour in the absence of a stiletto heel, fear not; you can always rely on Miu Miu to come up with a suitable alternative. These ballerina pumps (£400) have been given a dazzling makeover with Swarovski crystal embellishment and will certainly put a sparkle in your step.

Marked at the same price and a noted highlight in this season’s campaign are Miu Miu’s embellished sneaker, which will add some twinkle to your everyday footwear.  

Sloaney Style: Prepare to party in leather and green

This season, leather has returned with a bang. Whether you decide to explore the trend overtly or subtly, one thing is certain; your wardrobe simply must include a dash of this timeless textile. 

Everlasting leather jackets remain a wardrobe staple, but with party season fast approaching there is no better way to follow the leather forecast than opting for an edgy dress.

This asymmetric leather and wool piece by Helmut Lang (£810) combines winter textures and gives the traditional leather dress a quirky twist, by including wool panels.

Bottle green is a key colour for accessories this season and Sloaney Style suggests creating an edgy party look by matching the leather dress with these fabulous Diane Von Furstenberg platform sandals (£260). Keep it simple and complete your outfit by adding a touch of elegance with this clutch by Chloe (£515). 

Need a night in with the girls? The Berkeley has the perfect treat..

If you are looking to relax with the girls and treat yourselves to the ultimate ‘weekend in’ by hiding away from the hustle and bustle of London, the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge has put together the perfect package.

You can relax in a decadent hotel room and make the most of a luxury stay with plenty of pampering. The package is for two guests and has been tailored to incorporate following elements of the perfect night in with the girls:

• Diptyque candle to set the mood
• Mini-manicure with the latest Essie colours in Berkeley Health Club and Spa
• A hamper full of luxury Bliss spa products to allow you to totally relax, unwind and re-capture the fun of being girls together
• Delicious cocktails sent up to the room by the famous Blue Bar
• Use of a wide range of legendary chick flick DVDs available from Sleepless in Seattle to Dirty Dancing, to When Harry Met Sally to Breakfast at Tiffany’s
• Camilla Morton’s book ‘A Year in High Heels’
• Hope & Greenwood sweets and chocolate
• Home-made popcorn
• Full access to the roof-top health spa with its spectacular swimming pool and private sun terrace, which open to the sky in fine weather - perfect for topping-up your tan!
• English breakfast

To book your 'Girls Night In' please call the Reservations Team on +44 (0)20 7107 8841

You can also email reservations@the-berkeley.co.uk mentioning The Sloaney and quoting “Girls Night In” when you make your booking

Pricing: £499 per night

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 Style: Wrap up warm for winter

The chilly wind indicates that winter is just around the corner. With snow and frost predicted in some parts of Britain this week, Sloaney Style has created an outfit that will help you wrap up warm against the elements.

The cape is a key piece for your wardrobe this season and a chic alternative to the traditional winter coat. This version is by Zero+Mariacornejo (£2,635) and has beautifully soft lining. It will look fabulous over a roll neck knit, especially one that is in a sophisticated beige hue like this gorgeous cashmere sweater (£925) from Ralph Lauren.

For cutting edge style, opt for these D&G leather trousers (£565); the skinny fit will give you a striking silhouette. Finish the look by complementing the shearling lining of the cape with these black shearling boots (£525) from Mulberry.  

Sloaney Getaways: Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa provides a luxurious retreat this October

Over the next few weeks, The Sloaney will feature some luxury destinations that can provide you with the perfect retreat in our glorious homeland. The first prized location is Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa. This beautiful country house is situated in a 500 acre estate and offers a high level of privacy for those seeking seclusion. 

A proud member of Relais & Chateaux, the venue is one of England’s premium 5* hotels and offers fine dining in a Michelin Star restaurant. There are plenty of activities to keep you occupied during your stay and these include horse riding, bicycle trails and long walks through the countryside.

The World Heritage city of Bath is just 7 miles away and provides fabulous shopping, as well as some historical treats. The Roman Baths and Royal Crescent are among the most acclaimed tourist attractions on offer.

The spa at the hotel boasts a plush interior and features an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, along with an array of exclusive treatments.

For those of you planning a getaway during the October half term, Lucknam Park has an alluring offer. You can enjoy a luxury three night break for the price of just two nights. Rooms will be available from £315 per night and you can avail of this offer from Wednesday 19^th October until Sunday 30^th October. 

To check availability, please telephone 01225 742777

Sloaney Events: Pink Champagne Night at the Chelsea Day Spa

The Chelsea Day Spa will be hosting a Pink Champagne Night next Tuesday, in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer. Guests can relax with Pink Champagne and canapés, before making the most of some fantastic treatments on offer. You can pamper yourself with a Neck and Shoulder Massage, File and Nail Polish or Eyebrow Shape. Advisors will also be on hand to help educate women about Breast Cancer Care and every attendee with leave with a Goodie Bag.

The evening kicks off at 5pm and tickets cost £25. 50% of ticket sales will be donated to Breakthough Breast Cancer and a further £5 donated for every facial booked on the day. To book your place call +44 (0) 20 7351 0911. 

Sloaney Events: Jeans for Genes Day!

To mark Jeans for Genes Day, The Sloaney has selected our top three pairs of this classic wardrobe essential.

The dark grey denim jean from Stella McCartney (£265) has a clever fade effect, which not only elongates the leg but also flatters your hips.

The bright red skinny jean from J Brand (£205) will definitely turn heads this autumn and looks great when teamed with a tailored jacket.

Finally, make a dramatic statement with this Roberto Cavalli (£635) jean, which has a glamorous metallic paint effect.

Sloaney Style: City Elegance

Are you aspiring to breeze through the city streets with an air of elegance this season? The latest edition of Sloaney Style provides you with an effortless way to ooze sophistication, by combining nude and gold tones with some classic black trousers.

If you want to react to an emerging trend, then Cigarette Pants are a must have item this week. The innovative flair of Christopher Kane is evident with this pair of skinny pants (£825) and the gel-filled PVC trims provide a striking feature. The exquisite draping on the Giambattista Valli silk shirt (£1,360) complements the design of the statement feature on these trousers.

The beige hue of the shirt is both feminine and classy. It also encourages you to make an eye-catching statement with this gorgeous, gold metallic clutch from Louis Vuitton (£1,010). You can also echo this glimmer of gold, with glamorous star earrings by Solange Azagury-Partridge (£3,900).  Finally, the Agnes pump (£320) provides a subtle finish this to this chic outfit. 

Sloaney Beauty: Luxury spa, Africology, arrives in London

The Sloaney was recently invited to the launch of London’s first Africology spa. The luxury brand has teamed up with Bloww salon to offer those in the capital a chance to indulge in their unique treatments.  

Renowned for its ethical spa products, Africology is currently only available in a select number of the finest hotels in South Africa and Mauritius. However, holidaymakers based in London have shown a strong interest in wanting their favourite spa to be accessible on home soil.  

Nestled on Regent Place, The Sloaney is delighted to reveal that Africology has now arrived on our shores. The spa has a relaxing atmosphere, in suitably opulent surroundings. Treatments range from a full-body massage to a manicure and all products are 100% natural. Ingredients such as rooibos, African potato and marula oil capture the rejuvenating essences of Africa and help to revitalise your skin and prevent premature aging.

Africology prioritises its social responsibility and only practices fair trade. The brand is also actively involved in a number of projects including the Water Project, which provides water tanks to isolated African communities.

So, if you are seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of central London, you can book an appointment at the Africology Spa by calling +44 (0) 2072920300.