Kate does Christmas (at BHS)

The front page of tonight's Evening Standard entertained me, earlier. Icon of all that is glam and aspirational, the lovely Kate Moss, was spotted shopping (by the trolley-full). Where, might you ask, was the tantalising site of her spending spree? None other than the half-price gift shelves at BHS!

Was it a PR exercise on behalf of her Topshop chum Sir Philip Green, or a genuine shopping jaunt? I know not... but what really amused me was the sneery look of superiority (or was that boredom) written all over her face. I wonder which of her lucky friends will be the contented recipients of her generosity and good taste? Happy Christmas, Kate!

Early Christmas - Part One

Christmas season started early for me this year - inadvertently! Just over a week ago (sorry I'm a bit late in telling you...) I was invited to a celebration of Christmas, in London's sedately elegant Jermyn Street. Happily, it was closed-off to traffic so - even though it's not the most traffic-driven street in the vicinity - it enhanced the pleasurable evening's experience. All the local shops participated, some holding invitation-only events and others making it open-house, generously offering all- comers enticing festive tasters including Champagne, mince pies, port and Stilton. There was a happy atmosphere amongst the bustling crowds, on this traditional street of sartorial elegance, with enthusiasm moderated by mature well-mannered restraint, tolerance and friendly conversation.

One of the highlights for me (even though I'm not renowned as a major car enthusiast) was the impressive display of (stationary) classic cars. The MGs were especially alluring - I completely fell for a rare, pale bluebell-hued, early model. The shops that particularly impressed me were Czech & Speake and Paxton & Whitfield. If you're not already familiar with the street, treat yourself to a little wander there - when you're next in the area - it's a great antidote to the mayhem and predictability of the surrounding high streets.