Spring into style at Princesshay by Shelley Kelly
When it comes to clothes, Spring is my favourite time of year. Shrugging off the shackles of the winter woollies in favour of optimism in the form of spring layers and colours. So I was thrilled to attend Princesshay and Manor Magazine’s Spring in Style VIP event at Lloyds Lounge last week. An evening of fashion, trends, pampering and style – and all in Exeter! What’s not to love?
On arrival, guests were offered some delicious bubbles and canapes by Lloyd’s Lounge. You might have noticed this new build on Catherine Street, Exeter, opposite its older, more experienced brother, Lloyds Kitchen. And it definitely has a “lounge” feel to it – sumptuous decor, snuggle-up seating and best of all, floor to ceiling windows to allow you to people watch whilst enjoying brunch or your favourite tipple.
My pampering began with a relaxing hand and arm massage courtesy of Molton Brown. As the lovely Christina’s hands got to work on my own, we explored the similarities between fragrance and fashion. I am a strong advocate of the view that what you wear communicates something about you, however, I had only ever really considered this through the senses of sight and touch, not through smell.
Christina explained how the fragrance we choose to wear can be matched to how you feel and express your mood as well as clothing. To inspire happiness and freshness you might opt for Orange & Bergamot, or for a more seductive feel maybe Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold would be your choice. I fell in love with Dewy Lily of the Valley and Star Anise – it’s delicate, uplifting, floral aroma says everything about Spring to me. I couldn’t stop smelling my hands all night (which probably looked a bit weird I admit!) Molton Brown Exeter offer pampering sessions in their Princesshay store – give them a call and book your treat!
The stylists of Award-winning SAKS Exeter were also on hand to pamper guests with some beautiful yet simple styles – lovely flowing loose curls – if I ever have the patience to grow my hair – that’s what I’m aiming for!
The feel of these relaxed, simple styles was reflected in the main event of the evening. Award-winning personal stylist Chantelle Znideric talked us through her take on the coming season’s trends – with all outfits all sourced from Princesshay stores.
Many guests fell in love with Next’s satin, jungle print jumpsuit – a real statement item and great to see this High Street stalwart pushing the boundaries for shoppers again. And their flowing oriental kimono, teamed with a luxurious, drapey camisole from Reiss, showed guests how to team different high street budgets to create effortlessly stylish outfits.
Hannah Overton, Chantelle and Imogen Clements (Manor Magazine)
What I took away from Chantelle’s presentation though was the wide range of looks that could inspire you this season. There are both bold and gentle colours: orange and red alongside lilac and pastels. There are patterns and prints as much as there are colour blocking and neutrals. There’s also a lot of detail out there in the stores to allow you to add interest to an otherwise simple outfit. Tassel necklaces and fringed handbags. Striped shoes, feather earrings – team any of those with jeans and a T-shirt and you are bang on trend!
As I left the event with my well stocked Goody Bag, I thought to myself: thank you Princesshay and Manor Magazine – I’m going to have fun with fashion this season! We may not have every high street store here in Exeter but I have to say we do pretty well. The balance of stores for all pockets in Princesshay is a good one. And I challenge you. When you’re under their glorious umbrella installation this spring – take a leap and pop into a store you wouldn’t normally shop in. You might just be inspired to try something new and you never know, that could just make it a fabulous day!
Thanks to Steve Hayward for the pics!
About the Author: Shelley Kelly is the newest member of the Exploring Exeter team, Shelly helps women to feel incredible every day through her wardrobe, shopping and image services.
Shelley grew up in Scotland and now lives and works in Exeter.
