Shop talk compiled by Polly Berkeley
The bridal seasonHere is a sneak preview of just one of the gorgeous designs by Caroline Castigliano that will be inspiring budding brides this season.Launched at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in London’s Hyde Park in front of 200 invited guests, the event showcased what Castigliano does best: True Romance!
There were utterly feminine confections of soft tulle and lace, followed by Castigliano’s striking signature pieces with structured fishtail and statement organza gowns.
‘Every bride deserves to look and feel her most beautiful on her wedding day,’ says Castigliano. ‘And the 2010 collection is designed to do just that. This collection is an expression of relaxed feminine glamour. Each piece is super chic and effortless luxurious.’By appointment only at Caroline Castigliano, Water Lane, Wilmslow. Tel: 01625 536262
Sole matesAbsolutely loving the first shoe collection from Radley, the label that until now has been renowned for handbags and purses.They’re quirky, colourful and perfect for complimenting the spring/summer season’s palette of nudes and pastels. Prices will range from �75-�150 with styles that include flat multicoloured sandals to platform courts. Hard to choose a favourite, but this ultra-fashionable espadrille style is definitely on the wish list. Available at Radley stand-alone stores and selected Kurt Geiger outlets. Visit www.radley.co.uk Tel 0161 834 0531/0151 707 8833 for details.
Let’s hear it for the boyJewellery for boys is one trend that is becoming big, so let’s hear it for canny Chloe Moss who has added man-baubles to her ChloBo range of gems.The rather cleverly-named ChloBoy collection was created after Chloe, from Chester, created some bespoke pieces for the likes of Dancing on Ice star Lee Sharpe.Chloe said: ‘The majority of men are no longer afraid to go against traditional masculine ideals. Instead they are developing into savvy, fashion-forward thinking individuals. We think ChloBoy captures that rebellion perfectly.’Chloe’s mix of bracelets, necklaces and beads, priced from �40 for a bracelet and from �75 a necklace, are sure to be a big hit. For details visit www.chlo-bo.co.uk/store
Out of this worldWe’ve come over all Lord of the Rings gazing at this little number by the acclaimed jewellers Goodman Morris. It’s a creation of black diamonds and labrodorite from their latest Planet Sweet collection and has been inspired by the curves and ‘feminine’ silhouettes of the solar system. Find it at Brigid O’Hagan, Manchester. Tel: 0161 834 2704, price �1,075.
Ker-ruffleRuffles are causing a fashion kerfuffle this season. They’re everywhere! However, a word of caution. Choose your ruffles with care. White blouses with ruffled necklines can make you look like you’re auditioning for the part of bawdy wench in a Restoration play. This outfit from James Lakeland however manages to tread the line, emerging as fashionable, elegant and sophisticated, which is exactly the desired effect. Coat, �299 and dress (just seen) �299, James Lakeland www.jameslakeland.net Tel: 0207 636 7130.
Face to faceHoopers in Wilmslow has just launched a new beauty range called Mimoson. It has been devised to be ‘tailored’ as much as possible to the skin’s needs using a unique ‘Dermal Matrix’ programme – developed through years of research by industry scientists. The company realised that most skincare is made to ‘force fit’ the individual so they decided to do something about it. The result is divine creams prepared just for you. If you can’t wait to try them, experiment with ‘salon’ products. Although not quite bespoke, the company say they are produced in small batches using the finest ingredients. Prices are �37.50 for salon products and �89 for custom-made. Tel Hoopers on 01625 525381
STORE STYLE
The Old Fire Station Chocolate Shop52 & 54 High Street, Tarporley CW6 0AG01829 733736
The fact that this shop makes delightful use of an old fire station and is in such a charming location means it is more than just a paradise for chocolate lovers. Plus there’s a caf�, so you can be completely leisurely about making the all-important decision of what to buy!
Style Quaint and slightly continental in feel, the Old Fire Station Chocolate Shop’s glass-fronted displays and scrumptious chocolatey ambience are utterly enticing. As well as the caf�, there’s a back yard where it is quite easy to stretch out contentedly and catch the sun’s rays...
What to buy?At the moment you can buy Easter eggs, of course. But there are also own-brand Freudenberg chocolates, continental truffles, traditional confectionery and even sugar-free diabetic chocs too.
Anything else? Balloons, greeting cards, mugs, locally made ice-cream. In the caf�, you can buy home-made soup, sandwiches and paninis, a range of freshly made coffees, hot chocolate and teas and delicious cakes and pastries.
Opening timesMonday: Saturday 9am-6pmSunday: 10-5pm
