Tea at the Four Seasons

A good time was had by all (I hope) at the Four Seasons Literary Tea in Hampshire on Monday afternoon. The sky was bright blue, the autumn leaves blazing -- a brave start to the first day of British Winter Time -- but inside, an array of pale pink roses, poppy-red, and Chanel black and white.
I met lots of fashion aficionados and enthusiasts, admired some wonderful Chanel bags (vintage and contemporary), and shared my passion for La Grande Mademoiselle. As with other events I've spoken at recently (Dublin, Chester, Edinburgh, Manchester, et al), I've been touched to see so many mothers and daughters that have come together, as well as sisters and best friends. The spirit of Chanel seems to be inspiring a sense of female solidarity, as well as bringing out a host of book lovers. Many, many thanks to everyone, including the lovely ladies from Waterstones in Farnham, and to the team at the Four Seasons, who conjured up delicious cream teas and perfect couture patisseries, as well as those wondrous roses...