Accessorise Al Fresco
Colourful pieces made for a long afternoon in the sun.
The spring/summer lifestyle calls for a wardrobe that rises to its most delightful dilemmas (such as whether to order another glass of wine, or which Royal Exchange terrace to settle into). Accessorise al fresco with our May gift guide: an exquisite selection of pieces that catch the light, stand out with effortless elegance…and celebrate colour, colour, colour.
Colour is everywhere at Sartoria Dei Duchi, our resident Italian tailors. “We believe that even leisure deserves a certain elegance,” the fashion house asserts. Refresh your look with one of its vibrant accessories, or explore the boutique’s collection of soft tailoring, unstructured jackets, and breathable cotton or linen pieces. “Our garments are designed not just for occasions, but for experiences.” Quite.
Colour is on the mind of Royal Exchange Jewellers, too. May means “it’s time to trade the neutrals for some serious vibrant energy,” says the boutique. “Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to let your personality shine through the electric hues of coloured gemstones.” Visit the showroom to discover its selection of handcrafted pieces and enjoy a bespoke service: “a gemstone and design to match every summer mood.”
Searle and Co. Jewellers are greening the City: “emeralds are the birthstone for May,” they say. “With rich hues the colour of spring, and said to have healing properties, emeralds have been valued around the world for centuries.” Especially striking is this diamond and emerald cocktail ring — perfect for catching the light on our terraces during this month’s long, sunlit afternoons.
Watchfinder & Co. is now open on Saturdays: drop by on your way to the terraces to find an extensive collection of luxury timepieces. This month, the boutique highlights the Rolex Explorer II as a versatile choice — “for polar explorers and cavers as much as those just for hanging out in the City”. A true all-rounder, it’s purpose-built, and “looks great, too, no matter what colour dial — black or white,” the brand says.
“A Tale in Toile is our newest collection, thoughtfully designed and inspired by the beauty of a dreamlike garden,” Aspinal Of London explains. “It captures the feeling of an unhurried spring afternoon, and a touch of gentle nostalgia.” Launching on 11 May, each piece — such as this beautiful scarf — is designed to “accompany al fresco moments.” Bring one along to yours.
