All work and all play

With a new Banana Republic store launch in Milan looming and keeping the rest of the portfolio ticking over, of late,  it has been very difficult to find the time to network. Last week I carved out two evenings to do just that and cut loose a little.

First off was the VIP launch of One New Change. We opened a Banana Republic store there a few weeks back and it is  performing outstandingly well. We didn’t need Mary Portas to figure out that our signature style would work well in the City, but what has surprised me is the constant traffic through the weekends, as the centre becomes a shopping destination for those living on the east side of town. The building was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel; He spoke of how planning permission in such a historical part of town was only given, when the council realised that the entire building was designed to give wonderful views of St. Pauls.

The rooftop is literally a homage to the cathedral and as you can imagine the views of London are sublime. Tuesday’s VIP guests were treated to a rooftop performance by St. Pauls Cathedral choir followed by ragga girlband member/turned primetime winner Alesha Dixon. A well deserved celebration for a very successful endeavour.

Next up was the huge birthday party for free publications Stylist (1st) and Shortlist (3rd,) held in the extremely grand and beautiful Freemasons Hall, in Covent Garden. In such times of austerity, it was refreshing to be in such a lavish environment. The guests were thoroughly spoilt; sushi bar, martini bar, oysters and an endless supply of champagne. Diesel’s Scott Morrison was in good spirits as was Topman’s Jason Griffiths who were among some of the brands who had come to show support. The evening climaxed with a performance by Professor Green, who was worthy of the critics praise. Happy Thursday indeed.