Everything the Luxury London team has been loving this month
Party season is just around the corner – and we’re more than ready to kick it off in style
Dare we say it, but there’s a festive feeling in the air – and here at Luxury London HQ, we’re more than ready to embrace party season. Of course, we wouldn’t be doing our jobs properly if we didn’t share the tried-and-tested beauty products, gifts, dinner party essentials and wardrobe staples required to see out the festivities in style. Discover our favourites below. Plus, athleisure and accessories that more than warrant an early Christmas present (from me, to me). Here’s everything the Luxury London team has been loving this month.
Richard Brown, Editorial Director
The store: Thom Sweeney, Old Burlington Street
Every time I catch up with Thom Whiddett or Luke Sweeney, the eponymous style authorities behind tailor-to-the-stars, Thom Sweeney, I feel compelled to completely overhaul my wardrobe and start dressing exactly like them. It’s a compulsion I felt particularly intensely after Whiddett showed me around their recently-expanded showroom on Old Burlington Street. Word of warning, do not visit if you’re of weak sartorial willpower and are predisposed to giving in to tailoring temptation. ‘Kid’, ‘candy shop’, etc.
The jacket: Sirplus Tweed Wool Chore Jacket
We’ve hit that awkward trans-seasonal time of year – too cold to go jacket-less; not cold enough for the big boy coats just yet – when you need more than a cashmere cardi or merino crewneck, but aren’t ready to face the wool overcoat with all its depressing wintery associations. Step in Sirplus, and this soft green tweed wool chore jacket. Warm enough for the walk to the tube; not too warm once you’re on it. The great autumn-winter therma-conundrum solved.
The bag: Thrudark Citadel 45L Duffel Bag
Back to school; back to the gym. Difficult, mind, finding a bag that can accommodate a laptop, charger, gym kit and trainers, and still leave room for a book – currently The Maniac (scary) by Benjamín Labatut (brilliant). I suspect Thrudark’s Citadel 45L duffel bag was engineered for far tougher endeavours than my daily commute. But I’m a writer, not a rock climber, and in its myriad pockets and internal storage solutions I’ve managed to house all of the above, plus the entire components of a Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference meal deal, even the wine. Winning.
Annie Lewis, Deputy Digital Editor
The knitwear: Lucy & Yak Amari Oversized Knitted Jumper
Socially and environmentally conscious lifestyle brand Lucy & Yak – known for its joyfully colourful clothing – recently introduced a new sub-brand, L&Y, which is centred around small, thoughtful drops throughout the season for those who like to make a statement. As someone who is seriously colour-avoidant (winter heralds in my favourite palette of dark hues), my attachment to the Lima bean green Amari jumper has taken me by surprise. It helps that it’s also my perfect cut for comfort: oversized with billowing cuffs.
The gym set: Lululemon
I make no secret of how much I love autumnal weather: crisp and chilly with sun and blue skies. However, it has hampered my morning walk/running attire. Too hot for a coat, too cold for just a top. Enter Lululemon’s Define Nulu Jacket, complete with thumbholes and cosy cuffins (cuff mittens that can be folded over when your fingers get chilly). I got mine in the new espresso hue and pair with the matching Align leggings for ultimate comfort while I’m getting my steps in. They’re bestsellers for a reason. Add to your wishlist – or your basket – now.
The partywear: The Fold Fasano Metallic Knit Top
Eschew the party dress for a top that makes as much of a statement this season. The Fold’s gold metallic knits always sell out and I’m betting this off-the-shoulder silhouette is going to be a top choice for the understated woman this year. Begone flimsy tops that fall apart after one wear; with beautiful pleat detailing and a double-faced design that is soft on the inside, it will not only hold its shape, but will be preserved for party seasons for years to come. I’m pairing mine with dark trousers and kitten heels to let the top do the talking.
Zoe Gunn, Digital Editorial Director
The early Christmas gift: Liberty 12 Days of Jewellery
December may be the month of advent but everyone knows that, when it comes to calendars, you need to get your hands on one in October or risk missing out. And, while I see the appeal of a beauty advent calendar (and there are some truly brilliant ones on the market this year), as someone who rarely wears perfume or nail polish, it’s sparkle that really gets my heart racing. Liberty’s 12 Days of Jewellery advent calendar is the only one of its kind, offering a selection of gorgeous jewels from some of the department store’s most beloved brands including, for 2025, Missoma, Laura Vann, Otiumberg and Liberty’s own in-house jewellery collection.
The athleisure: Fabletics x Khloe Kardashian
While I will be the first to admit my indifference to the involvement of a Kardashian in any kind of fashion collaboration, there’s no denying those sisters know their way around a good pair of leggings. Case in point: Khloe Kardashian’s latest range for Fabletics. Blending the sportswear brand’s know-how when it comes to technical fabrics and functional fits with the influencer’s nous for flattering details, these high-waisted leggings feature a contoured waistband guaranteed to take your gym selfies to the next level. I’m investing in the matching sports bra and hoodie to complete the set.
The dinner party essential: Smythson menu cards
‘Tis the season for gathering friends around a dining table for cosy suppers fuelled by red wine and great home cooking. How to take your tablescape to the next level? With handwritten menus and placecards, of course. Smythson, purveyor of must-have diaries and fine leather goods, also does a great line in modern stationery. These scalloped menu cards (and the matching place names) will be a mainstay on my table this autumn.
Cordelia Aspinall, Branded Content and Shopping Writer
The shoes: This time of year means one thing: party season. When heels are too much but trainers aren't enough, Penelope Chilvers’ Flora velvet espadrilles are just the ticket. I’ll be living in my khaki green ones all season long. When I’m not out and about, you’ll find me snuggling up in my PJs and slippers, watching The Traitors or reading for my book club. Dubarry of Ireland’s Rockmill mules are my pick of the bunch for warm and cosy footwear with style.
The beauty essentials: For a subtle lick of colour and some much-needed hydration, Ilia’s Lip Sketch crayon has been my go-to. Ideal for adding a little zhuh, and perfect for sliding into my pocket or handbag when on the go. When it comes to my hair, Drybar’s latest launch, the Triple Shot blowdryer brush, is a complete game-changer. With three different attachments, I can create straight, wavy or curly locks that are salon-level ready.
The tipple: When a G&T calls, it doesn’t get much better than Aureus Vita’s Fibonacci gin. Having undergone a meticulous mathematically-balanced production by chemist-turned-master-distiller John Hall, the crystal clear spirit delivers a punchy, botanical flavour that is bold and delicious and just what I need on Friday night.
For something non-alcoholic, Botivo has impressed me, and I’ll be stocking up on its Sparkling Botanical Aperitivo for a refreshingly fruity, zesty and bittersweet tipple that just happens to be made from 100 per cent natural ingredients.
Read more: The best Christmas markets in London
