We inherited a conservatory with the house that I have never been able to fall in love with. It’s a light space, yes, but the bones of it are clunky - an early ’90s addition to much sturdier Victorian architecture, and it doesn’t really fit. However, one weekend before all the heatwaves of Summer began, Mackenzie had the brainwave to add motorised blinds. The phrase doesn’t sound sexy, so I slightly ignored the idea, until I happened to stumble across Elle Decor’s pics of Billy Cotton’s home using the most heavenly terracotta-toned blinds.

Back to conservatories for a minute. Unless you’re lucky enough to enjoy the charm of a truly vintage version, they can be tricky. They’re lovely because of all that natural light, but the vast amount of glass can make them feel rather exposed and, during the summer, incredibly hot. Our old cream curtains softened the room, but they also felt quite heavy, and a couple of them completely - and permanently - covered two windows. I had completely forgotten there were even windows under there, until the founder of Grants, Gaius, pointed this out during our consultation!

We chose motorised Roman blinds from Grants Blinds in ‘IV Hokkaido’, part of their Designer Collection. They’re made from Japanese bamboo in a warm terracotta shade, which complements the tones of clay, blue and chocolate brown in our kitchen, to a tee. What I adore most is the gentle colour change in the room depending on the light. During the day, it feels warm and earthy; in the evening, it makes the entire room feel much cosier. We chose unlined blinds so that the sun dapples through the little gaps in the blinds, and when I’m enjoying my morning cup of tea, or reading with the children on the sofa, this is utter heaven. (P.S. You can tour our kitchen here)

While I initially fell for the aesthetic, the practical impact has been just as dramatic, especially during this heat. There are various settings we chose on one remote, and to the kid’s delight, you basically watch the ceiling move about in formation.

This little makeover- and I say little because we didn’t change the flooring, repaint the walls or replace any furniture- has reminded me that the most impactful design decisions aren’t always the biggest. The addition of texture and replacement of light has genuinely created the feel of a brand new room. Other tweaks I made? I re-styled our Welsh dresser with some new pieces from Sharland England, streamlining the colour palette from bright tones to more muted greens, tones of molasses and terracotta. I also switched a skirted table from the living room, along with its lamp (both from Cabana), into this room. The softness and pattern from the skirt play well with the new texture on the windows.

*The blinds were purchased with a PR discount from Grants Blinds.

1. Devon Red Moiré Slingback Sandal by Loeffler Randall - if you follow me on Instagram, you know I wore these sandals on repeat lately (see how I’m styling them in my latest q&a video here); they’re so chic. I love the coral red colour, and they look good with everything, from jeans and a tee to a smarter look

2. The Woven Paz by Margaux - these are very comfortable, and the woven leather gives them that quiet statement feel I’m always drawn to. They’re perfect for the office and for long weekend walks

3. The Kibera Sandals by Amanu - my besties’ shoe brand, which has become my go-to for chic leather sliders, belts and bags. I’m always packing them for summer holidays, and I love styling them with a linen LBD for a dinner date or with distressed shorts and a sleek one-piece worn as a bodysuit.

   

4. The Clara Mules by Julia Berolzheimer x Margaux - Another friend of mine collaborated with Margaux this year on a gorgeous collection, designing some really beautiful raffia flats. I picked up these mules and packed them for my recent trip to Capri for a wedding, and aside from heels at the ceremony, they were the only shoes I wore the entire trip.

   

5. Josepha low sandals by Sezane - I’ve had these for quite some time now, and they’re one of those pieces Sezane brings back year after year. I like the detailing, and they’re the perfect shade of burgundy.

   

6. Caffè Net Augusta Ballet Flat by Maria Luca - Last, but not least, another pair of flats (in a delicious dark brown shade, of course) I wore non-stop this summer. It’s my second or third pair of Maria Luca flats, and I keep coming back to them because they’re comfortable, breathable, and pretty. I love the little signature chain detail at the ankles. They’re currently on sale!

I’ve rounded up even more of my favourite summer shoes here

*Affiliate Links included

And if you’re travelling during the height of summer, they’re the perfect antidote to the bustle- no queues at breakfast, no mad dash for a pool lounger.

Another reason I adore them? Most are small, family‑run businesses (often generations‑old), where you can actually feel the pride in every breakfast pastry and the warm chat about the local market or that hidden beach only the locals know about. Staying in one also means supporting passionate entrepreneurs and helping to preserve some of the world’s most beautiful, characterful places.

So, ending my love letter here, I’ve rounded up 24 of my favourite boutique hotels for your next holiday- to the coast, the countryside, or the city:

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Do you also have a go-to breakfast you like to eat most mornings? For me, it’s either toast with jam or granola.

For years, granola was something I only really had in hotels. It always tasted better there somehow, served in those lovely Kilner jars, with mouth-watering bowls of berries, Greek yoghurt and a drizzle of honey on the side.

At home, it never quite hit the same. But that’s changed. I’ve finally found a really easy, delicious recipe, full of almonds and coconut, and now I make a batch every couple of weeks.

And before you start imagining I’ve suddenly turned into a brilliant cook- absolutely not. This one isn’t mine; it’s my take on a recipe from my dear friend and brilliant Californian cook, Gaby Dalkin.

So here goes the recipe, which can be made well in advance:

Ingredients

• 250 g (3 cups) of oats

• 140 g (1 cup) of almonds

• 80 g (1 cup) unsweetened shredded coconut

• 45 ml (3 tbsp) of honey

• 100 g (½ cup) brown sugar

• 100 g (7 tbsp) coconut oil

• 2 tsps vanilla extract

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp ground cardamom

• ½ tsp salt.

Instructions

I first preheat the oven to 150°C (300 ˚F). Then I combine all the dry ingredients in a large bowl.

In a saucepan, heat the coconut oil, honey and brown sugar until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

I then mix the wet mixture with the dry ingredients well, then spread everything evenly onto a lined baking tray.

Bake for 30 minutes, stir the granola, then return it to the oven for a further 10 minutes.

Once baked, stir through cherries, cranberries, dark chocolate chips and dried apricots, then leave it to cool before tucking in. Enjoy!

For August, and slightly beyond, here’s what’s in my diary:

Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait - National Portrait Gallery

Happening in celebration of her 100th birthday, this exhibition celebrates Marilyn’s life and career - from her early modelling years to her rise as a Hollywood icon - with a lot of never-before-seen photographs!

Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style - The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace

Did you know that Queen Elizabeth II and Marilyn Monroe share the same birth year? For the Queen’s centenary, there will be the largest exhibition ever dedicated to her wardrobe- and I can only imagine what an archive it must be. It’s going to be over 300 items on display; I’m very excited to see how her style evolved and to admire some of the incredible gowns she wore during her reign. If you’re planning to go, be sure to book soon, as there are only a few August dates left, and the next openings aren’t until December!

Electra/Persona - National Theatre

Cate Blanchett on stage; need I say more? I worked with her briefly a few years back, and she was grace itself. This new production, directed by Benedict Andrews, sounds like an absolute must-watch.

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Whenever we plan an outdoor summer campaign, we cross our fingers and hope for sunshine. BUT, the weather had other ideas… Have a look:

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There are certain places you dream about long before you ever visit, and for me, the Amalfi Coast was one of them. I used to have a photo of Positano pinned above my desk. When Mackenzie and I were choosing where to escape after our wedding, it felt like the obvious choice.

Getting There

Most journeys to this coastline begin in Naples, the nearest major airport and railway station. From there, the drive along the coast to Positano takes about an hour, and it’s one of the most dramatic and beautiful drives you’ll ever take. Terraced cliffs plunge into turquoise water, and every bend reveals another cinematic view. You could do this drive yourself - just keep in mind that most of the cars are stick shift, so make sure you know how to drive one! If you’re not feeling quite so adventurous but don’t want to miss the beautiful views, hire a private driver to pick you up; there are many great options on TripAdvisor if you read reviews and do some research. Hotels also often provide airport transfer to and from the Amalfi coast, so be sure to check this when you’re booking accommodations.

Positano

Perched high up the cliffside, Positano is every bit as breathtaking as the piccies you see online, with pastel houses stacked steeply over the sea, the scent of lemons in the air- just dreamy.

Stay

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Over the years, I discovered many of London’s hidden gems, so I thought I’d share them for your next trip to London…

Read Part 1 here

8. Northcote Road Antiques Market

Opened in 1986, this is one of my go-to spots for buying antiques and getting inspired by old designs, colour combinations, and patterns. I love finding one-of-a-kind pieces for my home, and I’m always fascinated by their history. At Northcote Road Antiques Market, there’s so much variety, you’ll find furniture, unique decor accessories, artwork, breathtaking chandeliers and more.

9. Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard is a small, vibrant alley in Covent Garden. It’s quite the Instagrammable spot, framed by colourful buildings, beautiful independent shops and restaurants. I just love popping there, especially in the summer, for an after-work rosé.

10. Kyoto Garden in Holland Park

You know it’s the new season of Spring when the yellow daffodils, tulips and primroses start blossoming. A walk I love taking is through the tranquil Kyoto Garden, a lovely Japanese garden with a waterfall, beautiful, wandering peacocks, perfectly pruned trees, and a koi pond that’ll make you forget you’re in London.

11. Regents Park Open-Air Theatre

Regent’s Park has so much to offer, from taking in the view of London in Primrose Hill to visiting the London Zoo, but my favourite activity there has to be the Open Air Theatre. In summer, you can really feel the lively buzz of the place as the sun beams down and everyone enjoys watching a play outside.

12. Highgate Cemetery

If you’re into gothic architecture and atmospheric spots, take a guided tour of the Highgate Cemetery in North London. The architecture, the elaborate tombstones and the lush greenery make Highgate quite the spectacular walk.

13. Columbia Road Flower Market

If you’re visiting London in Spring, a trip to the Columbia Road Flower Market is an absolute must-do. Located in the East End of London, it is one of the city’s most iconic and vibrant markets. Walk among hundreds of different flower types, soak in the sun and the beautiful colours. All around you’ll also find chic independent boutique cafes and bakeries.

14. Hampstead Hill Garden

Tucked away in the northern part of Hampstead Heath, this garden is the perfect romantic and serene escape from the bustling city. Walk through the gardens and, if you’re a history nerd like myself, you’ll love exploring the stunning 20th-century pergola.

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I recently rewatched a few of my all-time favourite stylish films (you can find the full list here), and La Piscine was one of them. If you haven’t watched it yet, I definitely recommend it, and it’s perfect for Summer. It’s a psychological thriller with a mesmerising aesthetic set in hazy Saint-Tropez and starring some of the most iconic actors of all time: Alain Delon, Romy Schneider, and Jane Birkin. Beyond the chic 1960s aesthetic, it completely put me in the mood for some swimwear browsing.

I always look for pieces that feel elegant, comfortable, and timeless, that I know I’ll wear year after year. The palette I went for is all about neutrals and earthy tones: espresso, caramel, cream, and warm terracotta. I find they look flattering on every skin tone and mix easily with crisp whites, woven textures, and soft linen layers.

Below, I’ve rounded up some favourites: chic one-pieces that double up as bodysuits, pretty bikinis, sarongs, linen dresses, raffia totes and sandals, all inspired by the same understated glamour the film evokes.

Black thin straps swimsuit - Raffia tote - Breathable cotton dress

Printed sarong - Terracotta bikini - Raffia bow slides

Brown bandeau swimsuit - Caramel woven slides - Oversized cheesecloth shirt

Butter Yellow maxi dress (I have it in brown & love it!) - My bikini top - My bikini bottom

White thin straps swimsuit - Denim shorts - Comfy leather flip flops

You can find my full edit here

*Affiliate links included

And below are all the relevant links to articles and items I mention in the video.

Louise x

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Factor in dress codes, the weather (absolutely unpredictable in the UK), and wedding venue (marquee in the countryside? city rooftop? beach in Greece?), finding the perfect outfit can feel utterly complicated.

After countless weddings, though, I’ve learned a few reliable rules:

1. Aim for something that feels effortless but, of course, elegant and considered.

2. Don’t go too formal unless the invitation really calls for it. Structured pieces can often end up feeling restrictive, and you want to avoid finding yourself fidgeting through the entire event.

3. Yes to breathable fabrics! I personally always go for natural fabrics, like cotton or silk. And colour‑wise, I’m drawn to rich tones like burnt orange, chocolate brown, cornflower blue and olive green as I tend to rewear them more often than pastels. That said, pastels are still very much having a moment. A soft baby blue or butter yellow dress can feel fresh and elegant, especially for daytime celebrations.

4. Have fun with accessories. One thing I love is keeping my dress simple enough to go a bit extra with accessories: chunky, large earrings, a statement clutch or heels, or, if you’re into them, feathery fascinators and colourful hats. I’d suggest choosing just one standout piece to keep your look chic and elegant.

Below, I’ve pulled together an edit of dresses that tick all these boxes: chic, comfortable, and wedding‑appropriate dresses that you can wear in any setting, and trust me when I say you’ll want to rewear these pieces again and again.

This gorgeous midi dress is 60% off!

Pair it with

Woven sandals - Silk clutch with tessels

Chocolate brown drape maxi dress

Pair it with

Pearl earrings - Kitten Heel Leather Mules

Love this Butter Yellow peplum dress

Pair it with

Chic leather sandals - Oversized gold stud earrings

Draped one-shoulder dress for less than £40

Pair it with

These earrings are 20% off! - Velvet clutch

Obsessed with this Steel Blue lace maxi dress

Pair it with

Gemstone embellished sandals - Silver pendant earrings

I got this recently & wore it to Royal Ascot

Pair it with

Pearl clutch - Pearl-embellished heels

You can find my full edit here

*Affiliate links included

This might be the most scrumptious summer cocktail I’ve ever made. Perfectly tart without being overly sweet, and it’s incredibly refreshing - London heatwave approved!

It’s also quite easy to make. I found the recipe on Pinterest many moons ago, when we were still living in LA, but decided to give it a bit of a twist by turning it into a slushy-style, blended margarita instead. The first time I made it, our air conditioner had broken, so we were in desperate need of an extra cool-down.

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients (make 4)

• About 1 kg (8 cups) of seedless watermelon, cubed

• 360 ml (1.5 cups) tequila

• 240 ml (1 cup) triple sec

• 120 ml (1/2 cup) lime juice

• 1-2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (we used 2, but we like it spicy!)

Instructions
Purée the watermelon in a blender until smooth, then strain it through a fine sieve into a bowl.

Stir in the remaining ingredients and place in the fridge to chill for about an hour – remember, the longer it rests, the spicier the cocktails will become.

Strain the mixture once more into the blender, keeping the jalapeño slices aside for garnish.

Add your preferred amount of ice (at least 300–400 g, or roughly a good handful per serving) and blend until smooth and frothy.

Run a lime wedge around the rims of your glasses, dip them in salt if you wish, then pour in the cocktails. Garnish with jalapeño and lime slices – and enjoy!

I’m currently working on a little travel guide, which will be live soon. In the meantime, here’s a peek at everything I packed:

Day 1

Time to relax and recharge. This is my favourite burgundy one-piece swimsuit, and I wore it for a day at the beautiful hotel’s indoor pool with this delicious butter-yellow oversized shirt that doubles up as a cover-up. I wore this shirt the next day as well, paired with jeans and flats. I always try to pack just a few versatile pieces that I know will work hard for me.

My jeans - My flats - My shirt

Day 2

A true luxury lounging around the hotel grounds, with a newspaper and a coffee.

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Next up came full-body red light therapy. I’ve used a red light mask (use LOUISEROE for 10% off) at home for years, but being surrounded by light from head to toe was new for me. It was warm, cosy and quite relaxing.

Then, I had a copper peptide facial, complete with a heavenly massage that made me fall asleep.

And finally, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). You lie in a futuristic-looking pressurised chamber, breathing in pure oxygen. The idea is to flood your bloodstream and tissues with higher oxygen levels to reduce inflammation and accelerate cell repair. I felt a bit like an astronaut, though with Poirot playing on Netflix inside the chamber, I was perfectly at home.

I’m still waiting on my blood test results for microplastics - sadly, we all have them now to some degree, but I’m very curious to know where I stand.

It’s been such an interesting morning, I feel lucky to have experienced. Life moves so fast, it’s good to stop every now and again and take care of ourselves (in whatever form that may take - it’s so personal).

Louise x

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The Lives of Others at the Adelphi Theatre - I’ve got tickets already! I adore Keira Knightley, and I’m excited to see her in this new production. It’s based on Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s film set in East Berlin, and I think it’ll be intense but brilliant. Get your tickets before they sell out!

Wimbledon, 29 June–12 July - Crisp whites, strawberries and cream, Pimm’s in the sunshine, an unbeatable atmosphere and the best of tennis. Are you going this summer?

London Open Gardens 2026 - If you love wandering around hidden corners of the city as much as I do, this weekend will be an absolute treat. Every June, for a weekend only, private gardens and secret green enclaves open their gates to the public. There’s something magical about discovering a tucked‑away courtyard in the middle of busy London. Comfortable shoes essential!

Dominic McHenry at Eastnor Castle - This is a gem from HeritageXplore. For the entire month of June, artist Dominic McHenry will be living and creating within the magnificent Eastnor Castle. On June 21st and June 22nd, visitors will be able to explore the castle’s grand rooms and grounds and discover McHenry’s paintings and sculptures thoughtfully placed throughout. You can get your ticket here.

The London Design Biennale - It’s on my radar. I’ve been told it’s thought‑provoking and incredibly inspiring. Designers from around the world come together to present their innovative work and how clever design can tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges.

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When I fall in love with a TV series, I really go all in. I start geeking out over every detail: the costume design, the cast, the music, the locations, the decor. That’s exactly what happened after I started watching Rivals, the new Disney+ adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s beloved novel from her Rutshire Chronicles.

Anyone who grew up devouring Cooper’s naughty, wickedly funny books (I’ve got the entire Rutshire collection lined up above my bureau desk) knows that bringing her world to the screen is no small task. Even worse, readers know the dread of seeing a favourite book butchered by television. But I’m thrilled to say this adaptation absolutely nails it. If you haven’t watched it yet, I highly recommend it!

But, as much as I’m hooked on the series drama, I was just as fascinated to discover there’s been a lot of real‑life intrigue surrounding the stunning manor used in the series…

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1. Me+Em Woven Raffia Tote - aka the tote that goes absolutely everywhere with me lately. It’s spacious enough for my laptop and is equally chic at the office as it is for a relaxed weekend brunch.

2. The Elvie Sunglasses by Jimmy Fairly - I can never resist a good 90’s-inspired frame, and these are my go-to at the moment. Slightly oval, elegant but with a cool edge- they instantly elevate even the simplest jeans-and-tee outfit.

3. Column Table Lamp from M&S - I’ve been refreshing small corners of the house for Spring, and this lamp is the newest addition to our kitchen. I love the rich mustard on the base paired with the pleated shade.

4. My Life in Colors by Martin Brudnizki - such an inspiring read! I keep dipping back into it every time I’m looking for inspiration. It’s about Martin’s iconic use of colour and pattern in the spaces he designed.

5. Patent sandals by Sezane - With their low block heel, they’re comfortable for all-day wear (I’ve tested them thoroughly!) and look polished enough to take you from meetings to dinner.

6. Lash Enhancing Serum by Grande Cosmetics - I started using this serum a couple of months ago, and I’m quite pleased with the results. My lashes feel stronger and thicker.

7. Dimple Tumblers from my own brand, Sharland England. These new hand-blown tumblers have become my absolute favourites. Each one is slightly different, with a lovely molten glass string detailing.

8. Caramel wide-leg trousers by Varley - A soft, breathable pair of comfy trousers is an absolute Spring essential for me. I love the wide-leg fit of this pair and the pleated detail. They’re flattering and easy to style with both sneakers and heels.

9. Leather Slim Pocket Diary by Aspinal of London - If you read my stationery edit, you know I’m loving it. The colour is a classic, and the size is perfect for any bag.

*Affiliate links included

Naples is a little coastal town that sits quietly on Florida’s southwest edge. It’s calmer and more effortless than Miami. The kind of place you instantly exhale into.

I’ve been coming here since I was a teenager, and it’s the perfect spot if you’re looking for a relaxing beach break.

This year, we got to Naples after spending a couple of days at Disney World with the girls (my husband’s guide to it is here), ready for a little reset, sunshine, the sea and something easy with the kids.

If you’re planning to visit, I’ve listed all our favourite places to stay, eat, get coffee (we’re coffee snobs - ah!), and spend time in Naples:

Where to Stay

We rented a house for most of the trip, as we usually do when travelling with family. It just makes everything easier. More space, more flexibility, and often better value than a hotel.

But if you’re in the mood for a hotel stay, here are a few of our favourites:

• Ritz-Carlton (by the beach) - it was recently redone and is great for families - right on the sand.

• Four Seasons, Naples Beach Club - brand new & also on the beach. I love the serene, coastal interiors, and it’s a popular spot for lunch and cocktails at sunset.

• Inn on Fifth - slightly under the radar, which is exactly why insiders love it. It’s right in the city centre, with Mediterranean-inspired decor and full of old-school charm.

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Here’s what’s in my diary for May (and a bit of June too!):

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Last week was a busy one. A mix of office days, campaign shoots, and prepping for our Sharland England shoot on location, before dashing back to London for meetings (and the weekend, finally!). With so much running around, comfort was key - but I still love weaving in pretty accessories and pops of colour to keep everything feeling polished, pulled together and never boring.

Here’s a little rundown of what I wore, with links to each piece below.

P.S. I’m sharing them exclusively in this article, along with special discount codes for you…

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