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Nothing beats the lockdown blues better than a sweat-sesh — and so we’re whipping out some retro aerobics moves and getting a healthy dose of endorphins to get through lockdown 3.0 in true #TeamCoco style.

If you’re looking for new ways to elevate your living room workouts, or simply motivate you to maximise your one hour of allocated outdoor exercise, then these stylish activewear sets should certainly do the trick. Because looking good and feeling good is oftentimes the best workout motivation of all.

  1. Blush Sports Top and Leggings by DKNY available at https://www.donnakaran.com/
  2. Black Sports Bra and Leggings by Enavant Active available at Cult Mia https://cultmia.com/collections/enavant-active
  3. Chromatic Sports Bra and Legging by Calvin Klein Performance available at https://www.calvinklein.co.uk/
  4. Sports Bra and Top by Lindex available at https://www.lindex.com/
  5. Multi-coloured Sports Top and black Logo Leggings by DKNY available at https://www.donnakaran.com/
  6. Printed Sports Bra and Leggings by Aurique at Amazon Fashion available at https://www.amazon.co.uk/
  7. Printed Sports Bra and Cycling Shorts by Oceanus available at https://oceanusswimwear.com/

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we have to love the space we live in. This last year, our living rooms have transformed into home-offices, gyms, and home-schools and so it’s important that this space exudes both style and function.

You don’t need an expensive interior designer or a top-to-bottom renovation to give your living room a bit pizzazz. In fact, it may only take a couple of well-placed statement pieces. Stuck for ideas? We’ve compiled some of our favourite statement home accessories that will surely add a dash of style to your living room décor.

  1. ‘Oh L’Amore’ Diffuser by Acqua di Parma available at https://www.acquadiparma.com/
  2. Jasmine Candle by Shaku available at https://shaku.co.uk/
  3. Raja ceramic table lamp by Made available at https://www.made.com/
  4. Gilded Large Dora Maar Vase by Jonathan Adler available at Yoox https://www.yoox.com/uk/
  5. Glasses by Ferm Living available at Yoox https://www.yoox.com/uk/
  6. Cat Antipasti Serving Plate by Paul and Joe available at available at https://paulandjoe.com/
  7. Le Botteghe d’Arte Di Su Gologone Pillow available at Yoox https://www.yoox.com/uk/
  8. Turn On Table Lamp by Hay available at Yoox https://www.yoox.com/uk/

Last year has been tough and with no end in sight for lockdown 3.0, the last thing we need is all the unnecessary pressure that Valentine’s Day brings. So, this year, instead of Valentine’s we’re showing our gratitude to all the girlfriends that have helped us survive a global pandemic.

We know how much all those boozy zoom calls, distanced park walks and late night Netflix Watch Parties matter, so what better way to say thank you than by treating your favourite gal pals to some of these ultra-stylish fashion finds this February?

  1. Fuchsia Heart Chocolate Box Clutch by Lulu Guinness available at https://www.luluguinness.com/
  2. Rose Earrings by Piaget available at https://www.piaget.com/
  3. Red Blouse by Rosie Assoulin at Yoox available at https://www.yoox.com/uk/
  4. Printed Pink Pyjama Set by Hesper Fox available at https://hesperfox.com/
  5. Axiom Bangle by Citizen Watch available at https://www.citizenwatch.co.uk/l
  6. Black heart pendant by Missoma available at https://uk.missoma.com/
  7. Heart of Love Earrings in 18k Rose Gold and Diamond by Mevaris available at https://www.mevaris.com/
  8. LOVED Gold Necklace Lola Rose available at www.lolarose.co.uk
  9. Rosa Nobile Eau de Parfum by Acqua di Parma available at https://www.acquadiparma.com/
  10. Crimson Rose Gold Strawberry Thief / Red Perlon Watch by August Berg x Morris & Co. available at www.augustberg.co.uk
  11. Tie-Dyed Long-sleeve Top by Levi’s available at https://www.levi.com/
  12. ‘With Love’ Fenton x Papier Portrait Card available at https://papier.com/

This holiday season, we’re rethinking the way we shop and celebrate. If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we have to find ways to do things better, not just for each other but for future generations too.

So, to end a year like no other, we’ve curated a Christmas gift guide of luxury fashion finds that don’t just look good but also do good for the environment. Because truly great fashion, doesn’t have to cost the earth.

Fashion is all about self-expression, and we can’t think of a better way to kick off our eco-conscious guide with Ganit Goldstein’s 3D-printed collection. Goldstein makes one-of-a-kind pieces using repurposed factory waste, producing a collection that brings together art and sustainability in one stylish bundle. Is this the fashion of the future? We certainly think so.

We also love this printed jumpsuit from sustainable fashion brand OMNES and gold ring from carbon-neutral jewellery brand Pyrrha. Omnes’ goal is to avoid having any garments reach landfill and so receives high-marks for offering conscious wardrobe staples without sacrificing on style.

Yatay’s colourful ‘No More Plastics’ sneaker range was developed using sustainable materials and offers plenty of charm. For each trainer purchased, the brand plants a tree and has absorbed more than 55,000 kgs of CO2 since its launched. Yatay encourages customers to recycle old sneakers too, which is certainly a step in the right sustainable direction.

1. Refream Outfit made with recycled factory waste by Ganit Goldstein available for made to order at https://ganitgoldstein.com/

2. Printed Jumpsuit by Omnes available at https://www.omnes.com/

3. Gold Ring with inscription by Pyrrha available at https://pyrrha.com/

4. Printed Scarf by Shaku available at https://shaku.co.uk/

5. Helena Christensen ‘No More Plastic’ Trainers by Yatay available at https://www.yatayatay.com/uk

We are basically in love with everything at Arddun Store. Arddun opened in Harvey Nichols in August 2020 and offers a curated range of ethical and sustainable fashion, home, skincare, and accessories brands. We’re looking at this lovely matching set from Lonely Lingerie and this colourful throw pillow from Utopia Goods to spruce up our lockdown décor.

Living a conscious lifestyle goes beyond what you wear, but also how you take care of your wardrobe. The Lab Co. offers plant-based laundry products that are kind to skin and the environment, and we’re all for it!

Larq offers the world’s first self-cleaning water bottle and uses UV-C LED technology to neutralise 99.9999% of bacteria and we can’t think of a better COVID-era gift. Not to mention, the brand also does wonders to help end single-use plastics water bottles.

Pinko and British designer Patrick McDowell have teamed up to launch the ‘Reimagine’ collection, which features the brand’s signature glam aesthetic, albeit with a focus on sustainable and ethical design practices. The collection uses repurposed deadstock fabrics to help close the loop on fashion.

Mary Benson is another London designer who uses deadstock fabrics and offers a wonderfully charming range of clothes and accessories. The brand has also released a collection of customisable Christmas stockings for the holiday season and we are appropriately obsessed.

6. Yellow ‘Shelby’ Longline Bara by Lonely Lingerie available at https://arddunstores.com/

7. Yellow ‘Shelby’ High Waist Brief by Lonely Lingerie available at https://arddunstores.com/

8. Sports Wash by The Lab Co available at https://www.thelabco.com/

9. Black Oversized ‘Reimagined’ Tee by Pinko x Patrick McDowell available at https://www.pinko.com/en-gb/

10. Seaside Mint Self-cleaning Water Bottle by Larq available at https://www.livelarq.com/shop

11. Lucille Velvet Frill Bag by Mary Benson available at https://www.marybenson.london/woman

12. Martini ‘Reimagined’ Trench Coat by Pinko x Patrick McDowell available at https://www.pinko.com/en-gb/

Aligne is a contemporary eco-label that offers well-made basics that are made ethically and transparently, making for the perfect guilt-free Christmas gift.

We’re also dreaming of Jewellers Loupe’s range of fair-trade jewellery pieces, particularly this Trust double-band stacking ring with a Rose Quartz gemstone. Jewellers Loupe is s West Yorkshire-based jewellery brand that offers wonderfully timeless pieces at affordable price points.

Yardley London is celebrating its 250th anniversary this year and we think their colourful, plastic-free gift sets, featuring 95% natural-origin products, make for the perfect stocking fillers.

Finally, we don’t go anywhere without our beloved Dr. PawPaw multipurpose balms this winter (or any winter for that matter). So this year, we’re upgrading our Dr. PawPaw gear with the brand’s new ‘Prep & Party’ Set.

13. Amber Pocket Hoodie by Aligne available at https://aligne.co/

14. Anya Pocket Jogger by Aligne available at https://aligne.co/

15. Fairtrade Yellow Gold Trust double band stacking ring by Jewellers Loupe available at https://www.jewellersloupe.co.uk

16. Personalised Monogram Christmas Stocking by Mary Benson available at https://www.marybenson.london/woman

17. Farrow Bag by Sézane available at https://www.sezane.com/

18. Faux Fur Jacket by Baum und Pferdgarten available at https://www.baumundpferdgarten.com/uk/

19. Banksia Pink throw pillow by Utopia Goods available at https://arddunstores.com/

20. Contemporary Florals Body Fragrance Collection by Yardley London available at www.boots.com

21. Prep & Party Set by Dr. PawPaw available at www.asos.com

Nothing quite celebrates the arrival of the festive season than seeing kaleidoscopic baubles appear in boutique shops and department stores. There are plenty of fantastic creations this year to bring some celebratory cheer to the end of a tumultuous year.

Tom Martin

If you are looking for artisanal baubles, the number one place you should visit is Tom Martin’s website. Each bauble is painstakingly hand-painted using a 400-year-old Chinese craft of inside painting. The process involves hand-painting, in reverse, on the inside surface of the glass using tiny hooked paintbrushes lowered in through a small hole at the top of each globe. He has created the official bauble of Claridge’s Hotel and Annabel’s nightclub. Designs including snow-laden forests and The Snowman have been impressing audiences across the globe, as they are sold in over 20 countries on 5 continents.

Baubles

https://tommartinlondon.com/

Selfridges

It is all about sustainability with their Christmas decorations this year as they’ve unveiled the largest sustainable collection ever sold. This is in keeping with their ongoing, Project Earth initiative aimed at changing the way we shop. They’ve stocked decorations from the likes of Felt So Good which focuses on using eco-friendly materials and supporting Fairtrade. And they’ve also commissioned pieces to celebrate the multitude of gift ideas on offer at this ever-popular department store.

https://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/cat/home-tech/christmas-shop/christmas-decorations/

Graham and Green

For those who want to avoid a mishmash of bauble decorations, this family-run homeware brand has helpfully curated a 2020 baubles trend guide. They include kitsch, celestial, whimsical menagerie, Christmas past, and island paradise, so you just need to focus on your personal preference. With the likes of a beaded skull and glass chilli, I am personally voting for kitsch.

https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/christmas/christmas-for-the-home/christmas-tree-decorations

Harrods

From a world-famous department store, you would rightfully expect to find the most extravagant, outrageous baubles imaginable. They have some stupendous offerings this year including the likes of the Wedgwood tree bauble with their customary blue porcelain and the intricately designed floral bauble from Jayne Redmond. Harrods have also commissioned their own line of baubles including elegant bow and silver drops baubles to child-friendly Santa Globe Christmas bauble.

https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/shopping/home-furniture-christmas-decorations-baubles

Hedges and Flowers

If you want to enjoy a Christmas tipple along with your baubles, then these renowned florists have just the offering for you with their limited edition floral bauble and spritz kit. The ornate baubles contain precious, dried flowers whilst the kit contains ST~GERMAIN Elderflower Liqueur. Each bottle contains 1,000 hand-picked, wild elderflower blossoms. Each bottle is individually numbered to reflect which year the flowers were picked.

Check out our comprehensive guide for the ultimate Christmas gifts for couples, perfect for those in need of last-minute ideas.

https://www.hedgesandflowers.com/product-page/st-germain-x-haf-festive-kit

With a plethora of Christmas baubles to choose from this year, why don’t you consider treating yourself to something a little magical and also surprise your friends and family with some festive bauble cheer?

It feels like 2020 has been going on forever, so what better way to mark the (near)end of a stressful year – and signal the beginning of the holiday season — by treating yourself with some of these stylish (yet totally functional) fashion finds?

After all, according to the much-awaited John Lewis Christmas advert, it’s all about giving a little love this holiday season; and we think that giving yourself a little love is worth shouting about too.

Nothing says mood-booster more than long outdoor walks, or pumping living room workouts, so why not do it in style? We’re obsessing over DKNY’s contemporary activewear range for our online spin class and putting on some trusty Dr. Martens for our one-hour of daily exercise.

1. Red Case by Victorinox available at https://www.victorinox.com/

2. Cork Cable Knit Jumper by Paul and Joe available at https://paulandjoe.com/en/

3. White Sinclair Leather Platform Boots by Dr. Martens available at https://www.drmartens.com/

4. Mauve Sports Bra by DKNY available at https://www.donnakaran.com/

5. Snake Print Leggings by DKNY available at https://www.donnakaran.com/

6. Guacamole Carol Bag by Gu_De available at https://gu-de-official.com/

7. Fairtrade Gold Promise Ring by Jeweller’s Loupe available at https://www.jewellersloupe.co.uk

8. Green Cashmere Scarf by Victoria Ragna available https://victoriaragna.com/

These days loungewear is everything, and this printed set from Amazon is ticking all the right cosy boxes. We’re also loving this statement throw from Missoni home and perfectly autumnal trench from Lalo Cardigans. Not to mention, this brilliant Missoma Advent Calendar – because wouldn’t you rather have bling instead of excess sugar this Christmas?

9. Brown Les Girls Les Boys Pyjama Top by Amazon Fashion available at https://www.amazon.co.uk/

10. Brown Les Girls Les Boys Pyjama Bottoms by Amazon Fashion available at https://www.amazon.co.uk/

11. Nantucket Watch by Hermès available at https://www.hermes.com/uk

12. The Invisible Collection Candle & Holder by Diptyque x Osanna Visconti available at www.theinvisiblecollection.com

13. Green Hope Beret by Misa Harada available at https://www.misaharada.com/shop/

14. Patterned Trench Coat by Lalo Cardigans available at https://lalocardigans.com/

15. Black Mules by Kalda available at https://kalda.com/

16. Advent Calendar by Missoma available at https://uk.missoma.com/

17. Printed Throw Pillow by Missoni Home available at https://www.yoox.com/

We are certainly Indulging in a luxurious sleep in this slinky metallic slip by La Perla. We’re also making our home look and smell like a five-star luxury boutique hotel with Acqua di Parma and Diptyque’s home fragrances, and this glam ice bucket by Jonathan Adler. If you’re really looking to splash out – we’re dreaming of Piaget’s 30th anniversary gold bangle – for a self-care present that is as timeless as it is desirable.

18. Maison Metallic Silk Slip by La Perla available at https://laperla.com/

19. Maison Metallic Silk French Knickers by La Perla available at https://laperla.com/

20. Colonia Futura Home Fragrance Set by Acqua di Parma available at https://www.acquadiparma.com/

21. Ice Bucket by Jonathan Adler available at https://www.yoox.com/

22. Shearling Bag by DeMellier available at https://www.demellierlondon.com/

23. Dark Blue Maureen Flat Pumps by Malone Souliers available at https://www.malonesouliers.com/

24. 30th Anniversary Yellow Gold Open Bangle by Piaget available at https://www.piaget.com/

25. White Polka Dot Top by UN_NYE available at https://www.un-nye.com/

Paris is always a good idea, so the saying goes. With all of us now heading into lock down – duration time unknown – I was lucky enough to sneak-in one final trip to Paris to review an exciting new five-star opening, Monsieur George. The latest in a line of creations by the international hotel designer, Anouska Hempel. Audaciously sexy, Hempel injected her daring and trademark design-forward aesthetics into the new property, reimagining the interiors to stylish effect.

Sitting pretty on Rue Washington – named after the illustrious first president of the United States, George Washington – the hotel is a quiet bolthole a stone’s throw away from the (then) bustling Champs-Élysées. From the incredible and attentive staff, to the sumptuous interiors and detailed design touches throughout – thanks to our illustrious Hempel and team whom I had the pleasure of meeting while she added her final touches to the interiors – and I can confirm it is the chicest hotel I’ve had the pleasure of staying in.

Tasked with creating a timeless yet modern hotel, bar and restaurant, offering a “family home” atmosphere within the busy milieu of Paris’s arrondissement, Monsieur George features 46 rooms – each floor has its own style – and three suites. The all-white Franklin rooms on the top floor of this Haussman-style building, open out onto sweeping views over Paris, from one end Montmartre, across to the otherside the Eiffel Tower.
During my stay, I had a beautiful corner room – one the Windsor rooms, named after the Duke of Windsor and Mrs Simpson – overlooking the intersection of Rue de Washington and Rue Chateaubriand. And whilst I was within view of passers-by, it offered a still and quiet escape from the bustle down below. On arrival, I was instantly blown away by the sumptuousness of it all. The lush grey taffeta and grey velvet curtains frame the room with matching silk hand-stitched cushions, velvet throws and bolsters – created by Hempel’s longtime friend Doreen. Gold églomisé mirrored furniture, is de rigeur and everything is made bespoke for every room. The gold brushed brass fixtures stood out against the black marble in the bathroom and the underfloor heated flooring further enhanced my luxurious surroundings. It was pure heaven.

We were given a tour of the top floor rooms which were inspired by lofty visions of floating white clouds. Named after Benjamin Franklin, the intimate attic rooms and suites are designed in gleaming white-on-white with pale grey motifs and cotton curtains from Kerala. The lighting is soft, romantic and very evocative of an artist’s studio. Each room also offers outdoor space with seated terraces and views over Paris and it’s most famous landmarks. Although not yet completed during my stay, the Marly Rooms and suite – a jade-green duplex with its own leafy private garden on the ground floor – will be a haven of luscious greens, inspired by the iconic French gardens of Marly, created for Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles.

Hempel’s modern style and innovation shine through in each and every detail – quite literally – and stand for what one could call commercial couture. The 24-hour Galanga Restaurant and Bar is a mirrored masterpiece and an absolute feast for the eyes, you can see hints of inspiration from her most recent five-year project in Istanbul, and a palace on the Bosphorus. The bombastic decor features dark green velvet in églomisé mirrors and glass screens, with low lighting creating its very own optical illusion as you walk through the bar and restaurant. My favourite feature – the incredible dark green Morocan Walili herringbone tiles from Fez on the hand-laid floors.

Head Chef Thomas Danigo and Sous Chef Simon created a world-cuisine inspired menu that will constantly evolve in line with seasonal ingredients. Foodie highlights for me: the delicious fresh Cod cooked in coconut milk served with long-stem broccoli; a sensational beef tataki – paired with a glass of Châteauneuf–du–Pape, of course; and a divine YellowTail carpaccio. For dessert, I would highly recommend the deconstructed dark chocolate Ganache and the poached pear with ice cream. The Monsieur George Wine Cellar housed a collection of the most amazing clarets of Bordeaux – my go-to red for all seasons! – and other world-renowned wines with the friendly wait staff on hand to advise on the best wine pairing for each dish. The cellar also doubles-up as a private dining space for those looking for added privacy.

Neatly tucked in the basement is a perfectly-sized gym with modern Techno-gym equipment and a spa with a sauna with beautiful low arched ceilings and ancient bricks – a reminder of the intrinsic history of the district. It was here that I received the best massage of my life – this is no exaggeration! – by Anne at the Spa by Le Tigre. She is their master masseuse and yoga instructor who was fortunately on site for the staff training sessions. She gave me a massage she invented, fusing Ayurvedic and more traditional techniques together, to help clients feel more centred. She magically kneaded away any knots on my upper shoulder and it acted as a form of therapy, I didn’t realise I needed. Le Tigre brings other custom programmes to the hotel, including special yoga courses, fitness sessions, therapeutic massages and other aesthetic services. From your room, it’s a direct line via the lift to the Spa – parfait!
And the cherry on top – the incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff on hand throughout my stay, who couldn’t have been more attentive.
As soon as the world resumes normal service, I look forward to meeting you again, Monsieur George.
Prices start from €300 per night for a classic double room. For more information, please visit www.monsieurgeorge.com
Insider’s Tip:
Fashionistas should book an appointment at Society Room – an exceptional tailoring house reimagined in a former 19th Century Swedish Embassy near the Madeleine. A contemporary version of a nineteenth-century Parisian salon, it offers a line of bespoke tailoring for women, as well as a ready-to-wear collection created by vivacious owner and designer, Yvan Benbanaste. Society Room is one of Paris’ most exclusive shopping destinations and the funnest. Guests can buy everything in the space, from the furniture and art, to the silverware and antique china. Visit with friends and drink champagne while you try on the bespoke garms. Once you’re done, Yvan might invite you upstairs to the Mallard blue dining room where he will prepare and serve a delicious home-cooked meal, paired with some of France’s finest champagne and wine. www.society-room.com

This season, visitors to London Stansted Airport are invited to experience the festive allure of CHANEL through an immersive shopping experience inside the CHANEL SNOWGLOBE, and #TeamCoco are super excited about this launch.

Launching in partnership with London Stansted Airport and World Free Duty, guests are welcome to step inside the life size CHANEL SNOWGLOBE where there is much to do and guests will be able to personalise gifts and cards with a complimentary, hand-written message by an expert calligrapher.

Also within the CHANEL SNOWGLOBE guests can indulge in mini makeovers with the CHANEL Holiday collection from a CHANEL makeup artist and have a complimentary hand and arm massage – which is perfectly timed before anyone boards an onward airplane.

‘We are thrilled to launch the CHANEL SNOWGLOBE, the first of its kind to open in an airport and a wonderful moment for visitors to begin the festive season. London Stansted Airport has evolved dramatically in recent years and is now a great destination for this immersive shopping experience.’
Olivier Nicolay, Managing Director CHANEL

‘The pop-up is arriving just in time for the excitement of the festive travel season and we’re delighted that our travellers will get a first glimpse of the designer Christmas range and limited-edition pieces while planning their festive shopping.’
Aboudy Nasser, Commercial Director London Stansted Airport

‘We’re delighted to be part of this exciting trinity project with CHANEL and London Stansted airport. Customers will definitely enjoy discovering the CHANEL Christmas gift lines and will appreciate the opportunity to personalise their gifts and purchases to make them even more special.’
Delphine Poultney, Head of Beauty in the UK for World Duty Free

With the ski season almost upon us you need to be swift if you want to bag the best hotel. House of Coco recently visited the Mont-Blanc region of the French Alps to check out two very different places to stay this winter.

Just 45 minutes from Geneva airport is Saint Gervais, home to four villages and two ski areas, including ‘Evasion Mont-Blanc’ and with more than 400km of pistes this is the third largest ski area in France.

Nestled against the mountain of Saint-Gervais at an altitude of 1,150 metres in the heart of Saint-Nicolas is The Armancette Hotel. This brand new, 5-star hotel is a luxurious après-ski haven. Tucked away in a remote valley it offers guests a magnificent Alpine setting, with views of the Mont-Blanc as well as Mont-Vorassay.

The Armancette is an intimate boutique hotel with just 17 rooms, each one uniquely designed to reflect the environment and nature, think lots of wood, granite, stone and luxurious faux fur and silk. The rooms are elegantly designed and with an outdoor balcony you can wake up to breath-taking views across the village and valley.

This alpine jewel has successfully created a relaxed, calm vibe, making it a great place to stay if you want to chill-out after a day skiing. If you don’t fancy a drink in bar you can always retreat to the hotel library and games room to read or challenge your pals to one of the many board games. For those who want to take time out to unwind then hit the spa where you can make the most of the treatments, sauna and steam room. There’s an indoor pool with relaxation area as well as a heated outdoor pool with a terrace offering a magnificent, panoramic view of Mont-Vorassay, the Aiguille de Bionnassay, Armancette glacier and the Domes de Miage.

Located on the site of the village bakery, The Armancette is keeping the tradition alive with their on-site bakery serving golden pastries, an array of mouth-watering cakes and fresh bread daily. The smell of warm bread fills the ground floor each morning and is so enticing. I challenge anyone to walk by and not come away with some delicious tasty treat. The hotel restaurant, La Table d’Armante is modern yet cosy with an extensive menu offering fresh, local, seasonal dishes. There’s also a great choice when it comes to breakfast, so you can fuel up with one of their speciality juices or scrumptious omelettes before hitting the slopes.

20 minutes from Saint-Gervais and you’re in Chamonix, ski heaven! With plenty of ski runs this is the perfect place for any seasoned skier.

Catering for all budgets is La Folie Douce. Synonymous with après-ski partying and situated in the centre of Chamonix, this funky hotel has fantastic ski-in, ski-out access to the Brevent and Flegere ski areas.

What was once the historical palace of Le Savoy is now a chic, opulent, insta-worthy place to stay. The carpets depict life-sized synchronized swimmers, ice skating boots hang from the walls and there’s the odd mannequin and telephone booth scattered around the place.

The vibe is cool and eclectic. They’ve successfully nailed the trendy industrial look with exposed brick work juxtaposed elegant plush velvets and statement lighting giving the place a chic air. The hotel has 250 rooms, including premium (four star), access (three star) and dormitory rooms (three star), offering cheaper accommodation for groups. The premium rooms have views of the mountains and that quirky, luxury feel that runs through the whole hotel.

This is the après-ski party palace, with three restaurants, a main bar upstairs with a vast cocktail menu and for those looking for some fun and live entertainment, there’s the basement bar where you’ll find people dancing on the tables alongside the cabaret performers and DJs.

If you don’t feel like partying and want to rest your ski-weary legs then you can try out the yoga and spa. Here you can soak up glorious views of the Alps from the heated outdoor pool, take in a treatment or relax in the sauna and steam room.

Whatever you are looking for in a ski holiday, La Folie Douce caters for everything and everyone and is bound to be a hit with the ski crowd this winter.

House of Coco travelled to Saint Gervais and Chamonix courtesy of Savoie Mont-Blanc www.savoie-mont-blanc.com

For more information on The Armancette hotel visit www.armancette.com/en and La Folie Douce hotel www.lafoliedoucehotels.com/fr/hotel-chamonix

New York City is the home and design haven for Noor Shamma and her namesake jewellery brand Noor Shamma.

Noor’s designs are beautifully elegant, tastefully designed, and follow an ethical before they reach the customer. The Noor Shamma collections are sustainably sourced by using recycled and conflict free 18-karat gold, her team follow the sustainable practice through conserving natural resources, reducing energy usage, reducing carbon emissions and by reducing their carbon footprint.

We ask Noor about her background in jewellery, her love of elegant design, and we want to know more about her own personal favourite designs and styles. She is our latest #BossBabe superstar and she features in this, our #WomenWorldwide series.

Q. Does your working career stem from within the jewellery industry, or did you come from a different business sector?

A. I’ve always been into art and design (since childhood) but my career has primarily been in corporate communications, marketing and branding for the past 14 years or so. I randomly yet naturally transitioned into jewellery design and gradually developed my skill-set, while keeping my full-time corporate job!

Q. You tend to work with 18-karat gold, diamonds and pearls, are these your favourite metals and stones to design jewellery from?

A. I love designing timeless jewellery and that naturally impacts my metal and stone choices.

Q. You currently have three collections available from Noor Shamma, they include the Repertoire, Troika, and Luz; can you tell us a little more about these collections?

A. My collections introduce architectural elements and distinctive geometric patterns where each of the pieces are expertly engineered in a way that allows unique multi-functionality through different adaptations, making them perfect day-to-night – they’re so versatile, elegant and fun.

Q. You design necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings in your collections; do you have a piece that is your favourite ‘go to’ for every occasion?

A. That’s a tough question. There are many pieces that I love, but if I had to pick it would be the OG Repertoire U-hoops, and the Luz Diamond U-Huggies which I almost never take off lately. Plus the Luz signet ring is quite special!

Q. Do you wear your own Noor Shamma designs along with any other designer jewellery brands, or do you only wear Noor Shamma?

A. I wear my own designs along with other jewellery designers’ brands.

Q. You are very eco-friendly and run a sustainable business at Noor Shamma, can you tell us why you have taken this route and not the traditional route?

A. We live at a time where there is so much more awareness on global issues and a better understanding of the importance of sustainability. I simply feel that we can each contribute to the world in our ways since every little thing would make a difference.

Q. Your Instagram @noorshamma showcases some of your designs beautifully; do you find social media helps to promote your brand?

A. Most certainly, as it exposes the brand to a larger audience around the world.

Q. We hear that you are planning on attending fashion week in different cities across the world, have you shown at New York Fashion Week or any other fashion week previously?

A. I’ve already presented in Milan Design Week (April 2019) and London Fashion Week (September 2019) and I most definitely hope to attend more of these shows. I’ve also presented at a couple of prominent jewellery trade shows in NYC such as Metal & Smith and JA NY, and there’s more to come.

Q. Did you have to take any specialist courses in fine jewellery or art design before you launched your business in New York?

A. Over two years ago, after I realised my passion and talent in jewellery design and when I finally decided to launch my very own brand, I took an intensive course and received my GIA accreditation in Applied Jewellery Professional.

Q. Did anyone offer you any useful business advice before you launched your company that you still use to this day?

A. Trust your gut, you know best.

Q. Did anyone offer you any bad advice that you followed, and later wished you hadn’t?

A. To be honest, any bad decisions I made were my call.

Q. If you were to offer one piece of advice to someone thinking of getting into the fine jewellery sector, what would it be?

A. Do your homework.

Thank you for taking the time to answer all our #BossBabe questions for House of Coco Magazine.
Visit the website www.noorshamma.com to find out more, and Instagram @noorshamma to see Noor’s latest designs.