The other day as I was channel surfing, I stumbled upon a bemusing advertisement. A gentleman with a British accent was peddling a sapphire ring fashioned to look exactly like the engagement ring given to Kate Middleton by Prince William. This rather caught me by surprise, but upon further contemplation, I realized that we are currently living in a period of Anglo-mania. With the royal nuptials approaching and Oscar fever over Colin Firth and The King’s Speech, our home across the pond has become absolutely besotted with the Brits.
I confess that I am an Anglophile and perhaps this is why I noticed such a trend in the first place. But still, there is much to be said about this noble nation of Colin Firth, Winston Churchill, Alexander McQueen–the Queen herself, and so many other admirable characters. I’ve compiled a few ways you can indulge your inner Anglophile–right here in Los Angeles.
Spruce up your home. Vivienne Westwood is synonymous with everything rebelliously chic. Her cool cutting edge sense of style is still, however, rooted in her British background. Sure anyone can don the latest fashions from her collection, but can most people say that their tufted leather sofa sports a Vivienne Westwood Union Jack pillow? I think not. Which is precisely why you should trot along to The Rug Company and nab one for yourself. This crowning piece is practically in the Decorator’s Bible. The Rug Company is located at 8202 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, 323.653.0303; Vivienne Westwood is located at 8320 West Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, 323.951.0707.
Splash on some sparkle. The famed London jewelry house of Garrard dates to 1722 and is one of the oldest and most respected in the industry. They have produced pieces for royalty and aristocracy. This rich lineage is best reflected by Queen Victoria’s decision to confer the royal commission to Garrard in 1843. Six consecutive monarchs followed suit. This royal jeweler’s Knightrider and Grace collections, which depict aristocratic motifs are very au-currant, given the fever pitch pandemonium over the British Royal Family. For more modern tastes, check out Georgina Chapman’s collection for Garrard. All of the feminine pieces are sure to complement your Marchesa gown perfectly. Alas, L.A. does not have its own Garrard boutique. Contact Saks Fifth Avenue New York. 611 Fifth Avenue, New York NY 10022. 212.753.4000.
Pop in for a proper tea. Coffee is great in the morning, but do as the Brits do and enjoy high tea promptly at 4 in the afternoon, right here in our own backyard. The Rose Tree Cottage’s traditional full English tea service lifts you up from that late afternoon slump. An assortment of finger sandwiches, sweet treats and a warm cup of tea, served in proper bone china will set you straight to enjoy the rest of your day. The Rose Tree Cottage is located at 801 S. Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, 626.793.3397.
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