Lee Alexander McQueen was a man who was loved for numerous reasons and respected by a myriad of people – personally and professionally.

In true form, we must be able to feel love to feel loss, and love in its true sense I believe to be a recipe of adoration and respect. Listening to the tributes pouring in, Lee Alexander McQueen was a man who was loved for numerous reasons and respected by a myriad of people – personally and professionally. The fashion world has lost a great artist whose talent went beyond the realms of legendary. He admired and appreciated renowned designers that went before him and he passed his wisdom and learnings onto others. As he said of Yves Saint Laurent: “To me, fashion should predict the time we live in. He did this in the 1960s and 1970s. Pure genius, and a man that I always revered and tried to emulate.”  Is it any wonder that McQueen went on to become a great designer? McQueen’s raw energy and intriguing perspective made him one of the greatest talents of our time.      

Alexandra Shulman, editor of British Vogue sums it up for me. “Lee McQueen influenced a whole generation of designers. His brilliant imagination knew no bounds as he conjured up collection after collection of extraordinary designs. At one level he was a master of the fantastic, creating astounding fashion shows that mixed design, technology and performance and on another he was a modern-day genius whose gothic aesthetic was adopted by women the world over. His death is the hugest loss to anyone who knew him and for very many who didn’t.”      

What I loved about McQueen was his ability to delight, excite and create ingenious and unique designs. In under a decade he achieved enormous success becoming one of the most highly respected fashion designers in the world. From being a trainee Saville Row tailor, to a position at Gieves & Hawkes, to Chief Designer at Givenchy and Creative Director at Gucci, and the inception of his own label, he was awarded the title of British Designer of the Year four times, and received an acclaimed CBE. But it is the collections from his Alexander McQueen and McQ labels that he is most famous for and which have influenced a generation of aspiring designers.      

His Spring/Summer 2010 collection was a breathtaking spectacle of perfection, serving up rare and sparkling creations of pure genius

McQueen SS10 picture courtesy of style.com

His Spring/Summer 2010 collection was a breathtaking spectacle of perfection, serving up rare and sparkling creations of pure genius. Who else would dare (aside from Ms Westwood) put a pair of 12 inch alien style platforms down the runway?  I’m uncertain if I have seen anyone other than Daphne Guinness wear these, and she managed it so effortlessly and looked so chic, a feat that is not at all easy but very daring. And daring is what McQueen was all about.      

In his most recent SS2010 show he shocked us; he made us gasp with delight with a sneak peek of what he believed the future of fashion could look like. He was if nothing but optimistic, and his carefully crafted designs and intricate lifelike fabrics sent shockwaves through the industry. Is it befitting that even in death he has shocked us?  As sad and as devastating that this is, his demise has, like his creations and his talents, made us gasp. The loss of Lee Alexander McQueen will leave a huge gaping hole in the fashion industry and we will remember him for his wonderful take on fashion. I hope that in some form, the House of McQueen will live on.      

As his fellow designer and peer Matthew Williamson said today.” Like many others, I always cited him as a hugely inspirational leader of world fashion – he was a genius and his talent was second to none”. How could anyone not agree.    

It is with sadness though that I try not to think “why”? Phillip Treacy explains that “Creativity is a very fragile thing, and Lee was very fragile. He was a fragile person with a front of whatever you want to call it. It’s not easy being Mr. McQueen”.     

I dedicate this Valentine’s Day post to the legendary Alexander McQueen. A man whose talent we loved, whose designs we treasured and who became a British fashion icon that we will always cherish. He will be missed.

I had numerous opportunities to go on my school’s annual ski trips but decided against it as most girls attending were the sporty types and crowned ski champions since the age of 3. To be honest it was best not to embarrass myself and so I opted instead for educational art trips to Italy where cappuccinos and cathedrals were a safer and warmer option. Regretful? No. I’ll take a Tuscan sunset, Italian vineyards and Roberto Cavalli jungle prints over sub zero temperatures, fleece and Lindt chocolate any day of the week. Mulled wine, however, is another matter.

Older and wiser I have decided I would like to enjoy a ski holiday and I quite like the notion of sitting on a comfy couch in a cabin surrounded by an open fire and mountain scenery scoffing cheese fondue washed down with mulled wine and brandy from the bar. Yes, my type of skiing holiday swaps the slopes in favour of après ski activity and holistic spa therapy.

Indeed, there is nothing more glamorous than visiting skiing resorts during winter and being seen on the social circuit. Cue the cosmopolitan atmosphere, champagne climate, glamour and nightlife just as much as the skiing, and I can see why so many of my friends and colleagues are avid ski fans – the adrenalin rush, the physical endurance, being at one with nature and the fresh mountain air. Surely the latter can be achieved with a ringside seat slope-side and physical endurance can be challenged in the day spa?

But if you are schussing down the slopes this year at St. Moritz, Hunter, Stowe, Aspen or Gstaad, you’ll need ski couture that’s equal parts glam and high tech. Who wants to be mistaken for the Michelin Man?  The more glamorous resorts require dressing in a spiffier manner than one would normally. Of course wrapping up in cosy cashmere, snuggly padded jackets and disappearing under a few layers needn’t be unstylish.

Thankfully luxury designer brands like Celine, Moncler, Pringle of Scotland and N.Peal have elegant knitwear and outerwear in fabrics worthy of stroking, while  state of the art sportswear labels Musto, Helly Hansen, The North Face and Tog24, (all with great seasonal offers at Bicester Village), ensure there is no reason not to embrace the cool crisp air in perfect style!

As my best friend tells me it’s about getting the balance right. She would know. She’s been skiing twice a year since she was two years old. When I told her my biggest dilemma was whether sunglasses are more chic than goggles, she gave good advice. Apparently sunglasses are positively dangerous in a whiteout and so best be sensible and invest in uber stylish over-sized and/or mirrored sunglasses for the terrace, plus top-notch all-weather goggles for speeding downhill. I rather like the way Charlotte Casiraghi looks so fabulous in hers, maybe I will goggle up and attempt a nursery slope, though I have visions of emulating Bridget Jones’s ski style which would be hideously unattractive.

My friend and I have been discussing where to go for my first (après) ski and spa holiday and his bi-annual pilgrimage to the slopes. There are hundreds of resorts in Europe and the US and there is no shortage of places to visit. He quite likes the Igloo Village in St Moritz while I quite fancy the Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa in San Cassiano, Italy; the almost hidden ski resort where our lovely friends at Bicester Village have secured a holiday prize. Yet I have been informed (read: told firmly) we will be going to chic and fashionable St Moritz which apparently is also one of the places to be seen, and synonymous with elegance, class and sophistication. He decided on here because the resort is a high quality ski area offering extensive skiing, horse racing, golf and polo and wonderful hotels (snow is one thing, an Igloo Village is non negotiable). What bliss. While he is impersonating the Cadbury Milk Tray Man there will be plenty of time for self indulgent après-ski entertainment around the clock! I can hardly wait for those mountain restaurants with magnificent views, ski huts and chic bars, and of course a myriad of spa treatments.

Thank heavens for Celine.  I wonder if their boutique has their legendary fur trimmed boots and cashmere gloves? I know MAC at The Cosmetics Company has some delicious SPF tinted lip balm too! I’m enjoying getting prepared for this new adventure, after all it is a great excuse to buy some furry earmuffs from UGG.

Bicester Village and the Relais & Chateaux Rosa Alpina offer you the chance to win a four – night luxury escape for two people at the Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa, The Dolomites, Italy. The prize includes deluxe accommodation, daily breakfast, treatments at the Daniela Steiner Spa and ski passes. There is a double Michelin Starred restaurant, and some of Europe’s best ski-runs and lifts. For your chance to win, enter here before Friday 26th February 2010.

Christmas may be well and truly gone, but we’re feeling generous still. So if you’re a fan of skiing, snowboarding or just want to look stylish in your winter gear, this one is for you.

From Monday to Friday next week, we’ll be giving away one ski themed prize a day to our Facebook fans. The prizes have a value of up to £185 RRP each, from brands like NPeal, Musto, Helly Hansen, North Face and Sunglass Time.

Winter is great fun when you’re bundled up and comfortable, so before you get away to the slopes, get a great coat, some good boots to keep your toes away from the cold, stylish gloves, hat and scarf. Then you’ll be set to go, even if you get caught in an impromptu snowball fight on the way back to the chalet at the end of the day!

If you’re a ski bunny or a snowboarder, be sure to keep an eye on our Facebook fan page for the details on Monday morning!

Evening lights in the village

Today, Clare Taylor of The Potty Diaries writes about her first experience visiting Bicester Village…

I write this in praise of the Outlet Village. Well, actually, not just any outlet village. The queen – nay – the EMPRESS of outlet villages.

There are plenty of them about, you see, and in the normal way of things, whilst all outlet villages are equal, some of them are more equal than others.

Now, I would be the first to admit that I am not a willing shopper. I don’t run true to female type on this matter; normally I need to be dragged kicking and screaming to the shops as my clothes fall off me in rags, so dilapidated have they become. Why? Frankly, I just can’t stand the disappointment. Not that there are no clothes to buy, oh no; I live in London for goodness’ sake, close to both the Kings Road and Westfield Shopping Centre. It isn’t that there are not enough clothes to choose from, rather that there are too many and – more to the point – they all make me look like a sack of potatoes. A sack of potatoes in a pair of well-cut jeans, perhaps, or in a pretty patterned shirt, but – to my jaded eyes – still a sack of potatoes.

Or a 42 year old woman, at any rate, and whilst I might be that, the last thing I want to do is look it…

Anyway, I digress. Outlet villages. I’ve been to a couple in my time, and in my limited experience their proponents talk a good game before you get there, but once you arrive they are usually a disappointing collection of low-end high street brands shifting last year’s stock and Royal Doulton shops shifting seconds. Or so I thought… But then, unable to deal with the ripped hems on my jeans any longer, my beloved husband dragged me to Bicester Village, one of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping® Villages in Europe.

(Cue the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ from the Messiah here, please)

Oh. My. Gosh.

This place is to normal outlet villages what Selfridges is to C&A. What Keira Knightley is to Britney. What Green & Black’s Ice Cream is to that reconstituted potato stuff you get out of the Mr Whippy van at your local village fete.

High end designers like Ralph Lauren, Diane von Furstenburg (can we call her DvF from now on please? You’ll see why in a moment), Gucci, DKNY, Armani, MaxMara, 7 for all Mankind, Myla, Temperley London, Matthew Williamson, Vivienne Westwood, Roberto Cavalli and so on, are all packed into one easily navigable high street for your delectation. Who could resist? Who would want to?

It’s a bit of label-fest, to be honest. And amazingly, it’s not all last years’ tat. Shock news; they actually appear to be stocking clothes that even I would want to buy and keep forever! On a thin day, obviously.

Luckily for me (and unluckily for my credit card), it was a thin day, so rejoicing mightily I tripped lightly into (or was that ‘got sucked into the vortex of’?) DvF and bought myself two items. That’s two. Items. Me. I bought. Two. Items.

In my defence, they were both must-haves since a) they actually fit and b) they were reduced from around £500 to £80 and I don’t care how you cut that cake, it would have been rude not to. And I’ve even worn one of my purchases since, which is something of a miracle since you might imagine that a gold brocade tunic dress wouldn’t see much use in South Kensington in January. However, where there’s a will, there’s a way…

Anyway. Must go; I have a top-up shopping trip to plan. ‘7 for all Mankind’ and Jimmy Choo are calling my name and I received a seasonal 10% off voucher from joining the Bicester Village Membership on the website last month. Never mind that we all know I will get there and chicken out of trying on anything that might highlight my still too-evident Christmas holiday tummy, instead finding myself buying shoes for my children in Timberland and vases for my mother in law in Royal Doulton, I can dream, can’t I?

Now, where has my husband hidden my credit card?

[Photo credit: "Christmas Time..." by Tony on Flickr, all rights reserved]

About Clare Taylor

Clare Taylor is a hardcore non-shopper who experienced the joys of Bicester Village on a recent visit, and discovered to her surprise that this fashion business might be all it’s cracked up to be, after all. She is a part-time writer and blogger.

I am writing this a good few days before Christmas. The snow is piled high outside, the Oxfordshire countryside is picture postcard perfect and there is excitement in the air and the wonder of  whether it will be a white Christmas.

Before I escape the snow for the sunnier climes (one does have to take some time off occasionally), I shall share with you some post Christmas shopping hints and tips if you’re thinking of hitting the sales as soon as the turkey is cold.

Bicester Village will be open on Boxing Day!

My advice is to plan your visit before you come. If possible take the train. It is much easier, so much more relaxing and the best way to avoid holiday traffic! If you are driving, then either come really early before the boutiques open, or come later in the afternoon after 3pm.

There will be many further reductions from our 130 designer brands starting on Boxing Day. Most boutiques will continue further reductions right through to the end of January, so there is no need to rush! Visit the brand directory online and plan which boutiques you really want to go to. If you haven’t been for a while I strongly recommend a visit to some of our new boutiques - Gucci, Roberto Cavalli, Superdry, Aubin & Wills, UGG and Hearts On Fire. Seeing is believing! Shop for investment and go for those classic fashion pieces that you will buy now and wear forever; and if you see something you like, DO NOT put it down. Chances are it won’t be there when you turn around. Also remember to check the offers page on the website before you come, then you can head straight for the bargains!

One last thing. If you’re not yet a Bicester Village Members, make sure you sign up! We will be sending members many exclusive shopping offers next year, as well as regular emails with updates of new boutique openings!

I would personally like to thank you all for reading our Bicester Village Blog and hope you enjoy it as much as we like writing it, and remember there is also our Facebook fanpage and Twitter for more up to the minute information.

On behalf of everyone at Bicester Village, we wish you all a very merry Christmas and a wonderful, healthy and happy New Year.

Happy Shopping!

p.s. There is still time to enter our fabulous competiton to win a holiday to Barbados! Enter here before 8 January.

Remember that Bicester Village’s official website is http://www.bicestervillage.com so verify the address in your browser before entering your details or subscribing to receive our exclusive promotions for members.

If you come across a site you suspect is a poor knock-off or pretends to be Bicester Village, please let us know by email at bicester@valueretail.com.

What can I say – Just like a fake pair of Jimmy Choos, it’s no match for the real thing!

Bicester Village at Christmas

I love the pearliness and pureness of all the glittering lights and gourmet gastronomic delights that permeate my senses this time of year.

Trees Twinkle at Bicester Village

Back in the Middle Ages when I was a child and shops were closed on a Sunday, my parents had a ritual. All wrapped up and snuggly, my mother in her fur coat and suede knee length boots, me in my red pillar box coat and matching red patent shoes (again with the shoes, it was her obsession not mine) and my father and brother hidden behind layers of woollen scarves and hats, we would embark on our annual Christmas pilgrimage to “see the lights.” It’s not that we never went to the West End, we lived just 2 miles away, but this ritual was different.

This spirit of Christmas has always stayed with me, and yes it’s all about the sparkle.  The unity that a bit of festive lighting and food can bring among strangers anywhere in the world is warming and special. I’ve spent many a Christmas abroad, either because of habitation or holidays and in my opinion there is no country that does it quite like England. Tinsel in 90 degrees is just wrong.

Gorgeous Gingerbread Latte

I first visited Bicester Village in December last year; it felt like a chic, adult version of Disneyland. It was late afternoon, the shops were much quieter, the sky had dimmed to a dusky twilight and the Christmas lights shone and glistened among the quaint designer boutiques and landscaping. It was a fairytale moment. Add to that a Gingerbread Latte, amazing reductions and the best mince pies I have ever had, and I was hooked.

Happy Christmas Shopping

Whether you're buying for an Adventurous Spirit, a Fanatical Foodie, a Domestic Goddess, a Yummy Mummy or a Dedicated Fashionista, we'll help you plan your shopping

I am knee deep in seasonal list hell.  I have Christmas gift lists, lists for festive food shopping, Christmas card lists, holiday packing lists and of course daily task lists. All are ever growing and pretty much endless. I am now memorising them while I drive for fear of forgetting someone. Oh to be list free!

Too Many Gifts, Too Little Time

I have decided to share with you my somewhat haphazard lists and efforts at organisation. Obviously being based at Bicester Village I have daily access to hundreds of boutiques selling everything from panettone to diamonds. Believe it or not this can be a hindrance because knowing the Village inside and out I am totally spoilt for choice. There are too many amazing gifts to choose from and too many boutiques offering earth shattering discounts to visit in one hour. Lunchtime shopping missions need military precision and I’m not the marathon running type, especially in a pair of Vivienne Westwood platforms.

Doesn't yet come with brain-to-notebook adaptor, unfortunately

Can Santa Please Send Me An Elf?

What I really need is a List Angel, someone to magically create a direct link from brain and PC to Smythson notebook while I sleep. So imagine my glee when the Digital team, renamed in our office as Santa’s Little Helpers (I am now in total awe of them and indebted for life) created an interactive Christmas Gift Guide. I’d like to think they made it just for me, but really it is for all of you dedicated Bicester Village fans who want to pre plan your gift shopping before you arrive leaving more time to sit in Villandry sipping mulled wine and champagne cocktails while I’m at my desk making festive winter warmers in the office kitchen. It seems only right that we do save some of Starbucks Gingerbread Latte supplies for our customers.

I’m In Pre-Planning Paradise

In a nutshell, the interactive Christmas Gift Guide is an online personalised gift list which has helped me find the perfect presents for all the special people in my life; and it gave me a printable list for each person and a map of the village so I can find the suggested boutiques in a flash. With so many new boutiques opening and relocating I’m getting confused to what is where, so this is a handy tool. In the last two weeks we’ve opened Hearts On Fire, Aubin and Wills, Superdry and G-Star, and relocated Burberry to a bigger and brighter boutique! And you wonder why I can’t keep up?

Gourmet hamper from Villandry, £35

What I love about this online Gift Guide is that it made me howl with laughter. There are 24 personalities in the form of clever personas, with great comical sketches and witty descriptions that match many of the people I am showering with loving gifts this year. I actually wish that some of these personas I could bring to life and meet, they’re so good!

Jam Loving Jack

First to make my list is my best friend Jack. He is a total Fanatical Foodie who collects state-of-the-art kitchen gadgets that he never uses. The Gift Guide suggested items from Le Creusset and Villeroy & Boch among others. I hope he’s not reading this as personally I think he has a one track mind that never veers far from his stomach, so am thinking a gourmet hamper from Villandry or Carluccio’s would be irresistible for such a picky foodie.

"Shoe fund" purse from Anya Hindmarch (was £135, now £81)

Top Pal & Trendy Mum Tanya

My best friend Tanya on the other hand isn’t as picky with food but she is with fashion. She’s a typical Yummy Mummy and mistress of three kids under the age of 5, and despute hiding the bags under eyes with dark sunglasses all the time (!!) she still manages to dress like Olivia Palermo, always dressing fabulously chic especially for her hot dates with her husband. She says this is the secret to a successful marriage! I know she will love anything decadent and luxurious from Anya Hindmarch, DvF or Joseph to impress him with.

Newly Engaged Joelle

Joelle has just got engaged as is training to be the ultimate Domesticated Goddess. The Gift Guide illustration made me laugh so much I sent it to her, showing a mirror image caricature of her, with a feather duster in one hand and plate of cupcakes in the other. I know she is lusting over Cath Kidston and The White Company goodies for the home so I will probably kit her bathroom out with Molton Brown products to make up for the fact I have to give her something totally uninspiring from her wedding list when she gets married! I mean what is so great about vouchers for large white good appliances? She’s better off with a Bicester Village Gift Card!

Label Loving Sister Lola

The incomparable McQueen Novak

My 26 year old sister Lola is a truly Dedicated Fashionista and for me is the most exciting one to buy for but also the one where I am most likely to end up keeping her present for myself. I know that anything I get her from Marni, Dior, Alexander McQueen or Gucci, or in facts any of the designer fashion labels here, will delight her and render her speechless (god bless the silence) but if I am canny I will get some shoes from Jimmy Choo. Christmas is all about sharing.

The Men in My Family

The list is endless. My brother is a typical Metrosexual Male. He spends more time in front of the mirror than I do and loves his expensive shoes almost as much as I do. I keep telling him there is only room for one true shoe-aholic in the family but he is obsessed, clearly this is a genetic illness. Any shoes from Bally or Church’s will do, even on trend boxers from Calvin Klein or a shirt from Diesel would go down well. My Father is not so much a Trendsetting Dad but more of a Mr. Impossible and as a good daughter I want to get him something he will cherish like a last-a-lifetime pen, monogrammed leather travel bag or some Links of London precious-stone cufflinks, not that I am trying to bribe him for his air miles of course.

The gorgeous Mulberry raspberry agenda

For My Gaggle of Girlfriends

That’s already 6 presents and I haven’t even included Mia my friend who is a true Adventurous Spirit, most happiest skiing, sky-diving or driving through Europe in a super duper car rally; she’s climbing Kilimanjaro next year, because if Cheryl Cole can, then she can too. Hmmmm. It’ll be Helly Hansen, Jack Wills, Musto (I love this behind the scenes video of Zara Phillips) and Timberland for her. Clara is an Indulgent Princess who likes luxurious at-home pampering sessions and would adore a silk eye mask from Agent Provocateur and Nessa my Time Poor Workaholic / High Flyer friend who could do with relaxing with  scented candles from Kenneth Turner would probably find a Smythson notebook, Mulberry organiser or Tumi or Furla laptop case for on-the-job luxury more useful. I am beginning to lose count but think so far, and that is without the postman, doctor and dentist (alcohol or smellies always good here) I am now up to nine.

The Young & The Old Are So Easy!

And so to my three little god-ducklings. My Little Lady-In-Training Sophia will like anything that glitters or is pink. This means Bonpoint and Marie Chantal for clothes and Accesorize for sparkly hair ornaments.  George is a true Little Boy Warrior and a denim fiend, so Fat Face is the place to go and Louise is still a Bonny Baby and happy with anything but her Mum loves Petit Bateau. My Grandparents in Paris can have a Bicester Village Gift Card each, easy to buy online and they can use them at all the Chic Outlet Shopping® Villages in Europe. I may have to visit La Vallee Village with them in January, only because it would be rude not to.

Halleluyah!

Phew! See how my Gift Angel has helped me plan in advance? I totally have the Christmas spirit now! I have my map and gift lift itemized so I can shop for all 12 over the next week during my much sacred lunch hours. Just three gifts to buy a day and a treat for me is what I think Santa has instructed? Isn’t it? I’m thinking Anya Hindmarch pocket organizers for my reward. I also sent the Gift Guide to my friend Brendan, he is truly hopeless at buying gifts, especially for all the women in his life, and with me being one of them I sent him suggestions for me too!

Some Pointers & Prizes

I have some inside tips for you. The map is your ticket to win some fabulous prizes such as a £500 or £250 Bicester Village Gift Card or lunch for four (if only I wasn’t an employee – sigh).  Just take your map to the Visitor Centre after you’re all shopped out!  While you’re there, don’t forget to get your gifts wrapped in our exclusively designed paper by Paul Smith, with donations to Make-A Wish Foundation. Also check the website daily for special offers and come later in the day, we’re now open for late night shopping. Did I mention there is complimentary mulled wine and mince pies after 5pm? I’ll save some for you.

Happy Christmas Shopping!

Trying to explain to a five year old that some diamonds are for special occasions made no sense to me at all, as far as I was concerned everyday was special, but then I also believed I was a Fairy Princess.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

As I got older, I was told that one day I would meet Prince Charming and he would buy me my own diamonds. Hmmmm, Fairytales. By a certain age I decided to invest in some glittering diamonds for myself, but like any other girl I’m not going to say no to the gift of diamonds, and nor will any man; after all this is the season to celebrate, to rejoice in all things beautiful and to hope and pray that your loved one buys you a present which lets you know how special you are. Let’s face it, we all hope that the perfect gift will speak a thousand words, shine brighter than a star and be synonymous with perfection, and we all know that nothing, and absolutely nothing, spells it out quite like the gift of diamonds.

Bedazzled

Ladies and gentleman prepare to be dazzled. I am so excited to be telling you this, I can hardly contain myself, because, (drum roll please), Hearts On Fire, the Bostonian company which in recent years has established a new industry standard for diamond cutting perfection, and is the world’s fastest growing diamond brand, (sales in 31 countries is no mean feat) has opened it’s first ever UK boutique here at Bicester Village.

The World’s Most Perfectly Cut Diamond®

Let me tell you why this is so exciting. Hearts On Fire are the brand creators of The World’s Most Perfectly Cut Diamond®. Not only are these diamonds extraordinary, brilliant works of art, only 1% of the world’s rough diamonds are pure enough to be part of their collections and there are only 400 artisans worldwide qualified to cut these diamonds to meet the Hearts On Fire standard. Not to bore you with technicalities, but if you’re someone who expects more and wants to give more (note to self, leave this article in BF’s briefcase) then a diamond, cut and polished at 100X magnification, 10 times the industry standard, is particularly special indeed.

Seeing Is Believing

Is it little wonder why popping by the boutique, face stuck to the glass, has become my daily obsession? This is after all the company that has dressed the likes of Liv Tyler, Lauren Conrad and Marcia Cross for the red carpet and created the famous Hearts On Fire Diamond Chandelier in honor of the 60th Diamond Anniversary of the Emmy® Awards and to launch their new Architectural Collection.

The $10 million Hearts On Fire Diamond Chandelier

All I can say is lucky people in the Architectural Digest Green Room at the Emmy’s because I am told to see is to believe and three tiers of 3,300 individual Hearts On Fire diamonds totalling more than 1,000 carats, plated in liquid platinum and valued at $10 million is worth seeing. Alas it is not here at Bicester Village, we can but dream.

So what can you expect from the Hearts On Fire boutique? Aside from being blinded by the magnificent radiance you only get from a perfectly cut diamond, (cut being the only of the 4C’s under human control and the most important attribute to reveal a diamond’s beauty), you will find glorious diamonds that in all seriousness reflect light in luminous white and all seven colors of the rainbow, and glisten and sparkle, and gleam and glitter more than any other diamonds I have ever seen.

Magpie Heaven

Statement pieces, conversational pieces, wearable art, it’s all here. Pendants, earrings, bracelets, cufflinks, men’s and women’s right-hand rings and bands are designed in the most unique and modern settings.

The standard retail prices are approximately £800 to £85,000 but most of the pieces in the Hearts On Fire boutique at Bicester Village are priced at between 30% and 40% less than this.

Charms from £390 Pendants from £580

Circles in Motion earrings & Fluid #1 pendant

The majority of the collection here is under £2000. Affordable Charms start at £390 (50% off), Heart Pendants are from £580 and there is a delightful range called “My First Collection” for diamond newbies, starting at £260. These are all great gift ideas for Christmas and beyond.

About a quarter of the boutique contains pieces slightly further up the price range, these are the pieces that really make a statement.

I have a penchant for pendants and adore both the Fragrant Pendant and the Fluid #1 Pendant (both approx. £3,000).

I also love the Circles in Motion Earrings (from £2,000) and the Divine Gothic Cross Pendant (from £1,395). Oh decisions. One should be so lucky to have them all!

Make a Statement

Botanics Sandblast Brooch & Pave Earrings

Prestige Dream cufflinks & Applause ring

At the top end of the spectrum there are those to-die-for red carpet pieces.

My favourite is the Botanica Collection, as worn by Marcia Cross. The Botanica Sandblast Brooch starts at £2,075 and the matching Pave Earrings are around £7,075.

Other key red carpet pieces are the Poise Earrings (from £7,145), the Prestige Dream Cufflinks (from £9,285) and the Applause Right Hand Ring (from £8,930). If you really want get noticed then wear one of these conversational pieces, each one speaks a thousand words.

Sometimes You Just Know it When You See It

On a final note, as I must go now and plan my own Christmas shopping - If you’re lucky enough to be the recipient of any of these pieces, never, ever (I could not stress this more) let the bearer of such a gift out of your sight because diamonds like these come with a message of love. If you’re buying Hearts On Fire diamonds for someone else then be assured your message will come through loud and clear. And if you’re treating yourself, well good for you!!!

These uniquely cut diamonds are for those who live intensely and love intensely, and Hearts On Fire diamonds are just like love at first sight, sometimes you just know it when you see it.

Investment, Investment, Investment  

So what is a girl to do?

Beyonce in Atelier Versace

Well as with Crème de la Mer, diamonds and credit cards, a girl can never have too many party dresses. Yes, it can be pricey, but the trick is to buy timeless pieces from prominent designers. The quality of the fabric, the cut, the swish of a good hem and the dazzle of hand-stitched sequins, embroidery and embellishments all make for a good investment. Just look at Beyonce in Atelier Versace at this week’s MTV Europe Music Awards. Although she, and you, may not wear such a dress twice in one season I can guarantee that such a dress will announce itself from the back of your wardrobe sometime in the next 12 months and repeatedly for years to come. Such dresses need parading, they need to be loved and adored by you and your admirers and worn with pride. After all, tis the season to make a fashion statement, the noughties are almost over so we must dress up and party like its 2009! 

Divine Dresses to Buy Now & Love Forever

Cheryl Cole in Matthew Williamson

Just for you, well me actually, as I simply can’t resist a bargain when it comes to evening wear (did I mention the Vera Wang I bought a year ago from Joseph and still not worn? An inspired collectible that will attend one of many parties this year) I have hunted, yes trawled the beautifully cornish stone pavements of the Village to reveal the very best party-wear investments that are in our boutiques right now.

Here they are in alphabetical order.  I really couldn’t put them in any other order as I love them all equally and they are all very different in style. Not to mention I want every single item on this list but it being the season of goodwill I have decided to be unselfish and leave some available for you to buy too. 

McQueen Dress £885 (was £1,770)

Drapery & Grecian Chic 

Alexander McQueen’s black silk floor length dress is a swishy column of drapery and utterly divine. It was £1,770 and is now £885. Whatever shape you are, even pregnant, it is so totally wearable and is a dress that you will never get rid of.  

Strapless Body Con 

All Saints has a body con dress at £73 (from £110). It will hug you and squeeze you in all the right places, add to that on-trend zip detail and towering heels and voila you too can look like J-Lo and Mrs Beckham.  

Amanda Wakeley is undoubtedly the Queen of the strapless dress. Her amethyst strapless short satin dress is now £357 (was £595), perfect to show off your toned and sexy upper body just don’t overdo with chunky accessories. Aim for less is more to be graceful and sophisticated and don’t forget the strapless bra! For a less pricey alternative, Monsoon’s strapless black sequin cocktail dress is now £40 (was £135) and is stunning! 

Sequins, Feathers & Beads 

DvF Black Flapper Dress £2,448 (was £4,889)

One can never go wrong with a DVF number. Her iconic black feather & beaded flapper dress is now £2,448, yes expensive but it was £4,889. I can say no more. This dress is so fabulous it doesn’t need words.

Sequins are big news this year and almost every celeb has sported a silver version. Gerard Darel has a fabulous silver sequined shift dress at £120 (was £180).

Let’s not forget Luella, adored by the likes of Zooey Deschanel, Alexa Cheung and Peaches Geldof. Her black satin mini dress with bow and zip details is now £230 (was £325).

Matthew Williamson Sequin Dress was £1850, now £740

My favourite for sequins, feathers & beads is Matthew Williamson, for his textiles are tantalising and his colours are a celebration of the rainbow. His black and purple fox fur shrug is available for an amazing £720 (was £3,805) and his Technicolor sequin dress is £740  (was £1,850). These prices won’t last; they are currently on a further 20% promotion until 16 November, so hurry!

Classic Goddess

Jennifer Garner in Temperley Dress £890 (was £2,220)

If you haven’t discovered Temperley London then you must; and if you already own a Temperley dress then you’ll understand why I think this is possibly one of my favourite labels in the fashion universe.  It’s not just the fact that they design amazing dresses in a myriad of fabrics, whether long, short, halterneck or strapless, every dress in any Temperley collection is too easy to fall in love with.

My favourite in the Temperley boutique right now is the midnight blue silk evening gown with jet beading as worn by Jennifer Garner at the UK Premiere of The Kingdom. A total investment at £890 (was £2,220). 

Finally, there is a little black silk Gianni Versace number with ruffle detail; a creation of sophistication. Sadly I wasn’t able to get a photo but this is Versace and needs no explanation especially as it is now £1,022 (was £3,405).

Mission Accomplished 

That was the extent of my in-depth mission, (I do have a day job you know) but I did see some lovely party-wear in the windows of Celine, Coast, D&G, Dior, French Connection, Hobbs, Joseph, Karen Millen, Reiss, Ted Baker and Valentino and many of them have offers. As for shoes (do not get me started), I am banned from Jimmy Choo as my enthusiasm puts off the other customers but peeping through the glass I saw some stunning black suede bow tie ankle boots with gold/black/white zig-zag heels. They told me on the phone they were £778 but are now £521. Hmmmmm. FYI there is Prada and Louboutin in Joseph and almost every designer boutique here stocks a selection of glorious, sexy footwear.

Golden Rules Not to Be Broken

Zooey Deschanel in Luella

Lastly no matter what you wear there are two golden rules. Underwear & accessories. Without these you may as well not bother. One can wear a bin-bag but invest in some good underwear to smooth out any lumps and bumps and no-one will know. Wolford has the magic “forming dress” in nude or black at £50 (was £75) and for accessories visit Marni, Pascal, Bulgari and Vivienne Westwood, her jewellery starts at £30. Lastly don’t forget to leave the house without a pouch for your credit card, business cards and lipgloss. I bought Alexander McQueen’s in black patent with gold zip for £70, it was £140 and therefore I feel no pain only pleasure.

Finally, happy shopping and please do post your Christmas fashion pictures on our Facebook fanpage. This season comes round but once a year so for a memorable party remember you must never drink & drive, that’s what chauffeurs are for and if you take a taxi make sure it is a licensed black taxi cab! Chic ladies in designer dresses do not bode well on public transport and Choos were not made for walking. You may want to leave the Oyster card at home.

p.s There is only 7 weeks left till Christmas and only 4 Gift Inspiration days for VIP Bicester Village Members. Don’t forget to sign up to get an invite.