Grace is a fascinating woman with a strong creative vision based on both her own experiences as model and her vast knowledge of historical references. One of my favourite segments was where she fought - but lost - her case to include the 20's-inspired Galliano spread which she had styled and directed.
With an extensive sake and cocktail menu, it took some time to decide on drinks. I went with the lime and lychee martini, a fine balance of sharp and sweet. At £12 it wasn't cheap but the elegant surrounds and helpful waiting staff made it worthwhile. A great location to impress a date.
For dinner, we headed to the Mint Leaf, just off Haymarket. We shared two starters (grilled lamb and paneer with apricots), two mains (chicken tikka and sea bream) and dessert (coconut brulee, recommended by our waitress). The food was delicious - all the meats were tender and spicy without overwhelming the palate. Service was pleasant and very efficient. The only downside was the music which was overly loud for a pre-8pm booking. All in all, a great venue for a birthday party with a large group of friends in tow.
(Image source: Vanity Fair)
Earlier on, we had dinner at a hyped and very well-reviewed new Italian restaurant in Soho. Although the service was excellent, and the dining room gorgeous, the main courses were disappointing. I barely had four bites from my partridge as it was very rare and the boy's tuna was miniscule and overwhelmed by a strong vinegar dressing. The highlights of the meal were the starters of giant green olives, homemade bread and deep-fried mozzarella balls.
The locals may say otherwise but it certainly does rain a lot in Manchester. So when blue sky appeared on a crisp Autumn morning, there was walking to be done.
After seeing clogs in the Spring/Summer 2010 shows - particularly for Chanel - I was intrigued. I haven't worn clogs since I was a child; the closest I have come is the Gap Editions wooden soled sandals from Spring/Summer 2008 which I have worn to death.
Hirst's triptychs reference the great work of Francis Bacon, but they lack the visceral impact and the ability to leave the viewer breathless.
For me, the most interesting part of the exhibition is how these contemporary pieces have been curated in two rooms of blue silk-covered walls, with almost no differentiation between the classic baroque works that both precede and continue after the Hirst exhibition.
I enjoy the concept and humour in many of Hirst's creations and this is an interesting experiment. However, as an attempt to become 'one' with some of the great Masters of artistic tradition, it falls somewhat short.
(image source: The Wallace Collection)
Maybe it's because I watched 'The Good, The Bad and The Ugly' on the weekend (or it could be due to the dark winter evenings closing in) but I am really feeling the need for a large, cosetting cardigan that's almost a blanket.
Now, which one should I choose? 
