Latest news with #BurlingtonArcade
Daily Mail
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE How Kate Middleton's beloved Royal jeweller transcended the gemstone industry with the help of Princess Diana and Queen Camilla
Kiki has been with Kate since the beginning, even before the now Princess of Wales became a member of the British Royal Family. But it was in fact the previous Princess of Wales, Diana, who was the first royal to put Kiki McDonough on the map - wearing a pair of iconic earrings, and at The White House no less! Kiki McDonough has royal clientèle in her blood; her father, Robin Axford, was a director at Harvey & Gore, an antique jeweller based in the Burlington Arcade, to whom Queen Mary, perhaps the Royal Family's most prolific purchaser of jewels, frequented. It is four decades since Kiki, having previously worked at Vogue for 18 months as a fashion assistant and in the warehouse of a leather goods company, started designing for jeweller Nigel Milne on Grafton Street. Not long after the launch of her first collection as a partner of Nigel Milne, Sarah Ferguson wore a pair of Kiki's heart earrings for an official engagement photo with Prince Andrew. A few months later as the Duchess of York, she arrived in Bordeaux wearing a pair of onyx heart and bow earrings and a pearl and onyx heart necklace - it was the summer of 1986 and the duchess was still glowing from her royal wedding only weeks earlier. Indeed Sarah Ferguson had gone to Kiki for jewellery not long after her engagement to Prince Andrew, as she was thrown into official engagements from the get-go, and was not yet able to be leant jewels from the Queen's collection. Sarah was to become the first of many British royals to wear Kiki McDonough's colourful jewels on both private and public occasions - culminating in the most regal of all - the Coronation of King Charles III. Sarah Ferguson wore Kiki earrings in the shape of hearts for her engagement announcement In her recently published biographical coffee table book, celebrating forty fabulous years as a jeweller and businesswoman, we discover that Kiki was one of the first fine jewellers to branch away from the traditional cardinal gemstones of diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. From the beginning she ingeniously embraced amethysts and aquamarines, tanzanites and tourmalines - and for Diana, the then Princess of Wales, this may have been another step in paving her own path through the rigours of royal life. Always known for breaking the boundaries of the traditional princess protocol - with off-the-shoulder and one-shoulder dresses, hemlines above the knee; she also shook-up royal jewels by wearing Queen Mary's emerald choker as a bandeau, as well as her own Saudi sapphire choker. So it is not surprising that she found Kiki's colourful designs a breath of fresh air and in 1990 on a State Visit to the USA, she wore a pair of pearl and amethyst earrings to the White House. A photo from this engagement was on the cover of Hello magazine, amongst many other publications - and the earrings subsequently sold out! Kiki writes in her book that Kate has been a 'great help in the evolution of the brand' Indeed the story of the former Princess of Wales waiting outside the jeweller's first standalone store, on Elizabeth Street in Belgravia, is legendary: Kiki was making a cup of coffee and thought that a builder was joking when he told her that the princess was about to take the handle off the door - she seemed so keen to enter! He wasn't, joking that is! But it is Kate, the current Princess of Wales, who has been her most successful royal patron with (according to several sources) at least 20 pieces in a rainbow array of colours. As Kate Middleton - it was on her first royal engagement in February 2011 that we saw the future queen wear Kiki McDonough earrings to a lifeboat naming ceremony in Anglesey, Wales. In her book, A Life of Colour, the jeweller admits that Kate, has been "a great help in the evolution of the brand". Indeed I think she might well have a pair of earrings to match every single outfit in her wardrobe in every colourway possible! Kiki's design for Queen Camilla's Coronation is created with 18 carat white gold and set with diamonds, designed in the form of the Queen's cypher - with C (Camilla) and R (Regina) intertwined, with a crown above In recent years we have also seen Queen Camilla wearing pendant jewels from her daughter in law's favourite jeweller. Perhaps Kiki McDonough's most official royal commission however was from Buckingham Palace in early 2023: the creation of a cypher brooch for Her Majesty Queen Camilla and her Companions, to be worn at the Coronation on May 6th 2023. The jewel is created in 18 carat white gold and set with diamonds, designed in the form of the Queen's cypher - with C (Camilla) and R (Regina) intertwined, with a crown above. Of course, Kiki is more than just a jeweller to royals, my son has a pair of exquisite enamel and gold cufflinks that were given to him by his godmother. She is also a brilliant businesswoman – who inspires new generations of jewellers every day. Kiki McDonough: A Life of Colour: 40 Years of Gemstone Jewellery available on Amazon at £49.99
Forbes
10-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Latest Watch Trends In Time For Father's Day
TSUYOSA, Citizen watches with strong colors, a Father's Day trend this year. If you're looking for a Father's Day gift, you might want to consider a watch. From sports designs to vintage styles, several strong trends are emerging this summer that cater to all tastes. Handpick the perfect timepiece to create a unique and meaningful gift. According to Research and Markets, the global watch market size was valued at USD 78.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, the analyst estimates the market to reach USD 113.8 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.25% during 2025-2033. They attribute some of the key factors driving this growth to shifting fashion and lifestyle trends, notable technological advancements, rising economic prosperity, increasing demand for high-end accessories, effective branding and marketing, as well as to the rapid growth of online retail and e-commerce. They also tell us that consumers seek watches that align with their personal style, whether it's classic, minimalist, sporty, or avant-garde, and that the influence of celebrities, fashion influencers, and social media further amplifies the impact of these trends. As an industry, Research and Markets concludes, it is successfully adapting to changing lifestyles and trends, offering a range of options to cater to a diverse range of consumers. I met David Silver, owner of The Vintage Watch Company, at his beautiful store in London's Burlington Arcade, which showcases the largest collection of vintage Rolex on display anywhere in the world. He told me that watches have become the ultimate fashion accessory, with many customers spending more time selecting a strap than the watch itself. We discussed what makes a watch such a wonderful gift for a father. It's the fact, we agreed, that it can be worn every day, admired and appreciated, with that ever-present memory of who it was given by. David tells me that another reason for its appeal is the knowledge that you are merely its custodian, and that eventually it will be handed down to the next generation. 'While a luxury timepiece makes for a memorable gift, owning one can be a smart investment, as they often increase in value over time—so what could be a Father's Day gift this year could potentially become a family heirloom for generations to come,' he says. Indeed, finding the perfect Father's Day gift can be a challenge, but, as Bruce Andrews, Head of Watches at Beaverbrooks tells me over email, there is nothing quite like a classic timepiece to show him he means the world to you. Rolex's vintage collection featuring colored dials, a strong Father's Day trend. There is a strong move towards watches with color this season, David Silver explains, both on the strap and the dial. Many luxury brands are embracing this trend, including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Breitling, TAG Heuer, and OMEGA. The Citizen Tsuyosa collection (Tsuyosa is the Japanese word for strength) is available in many shades, with three options featuring a 37mm case size: ice blue, pastel pink, and dark green. Another elegant colored watch is the Classic Power Reserve Big Date Manufacture, from Frederique Constant, with a large date, a moon phase and a power reserve indicator, now for a total of 50 hours. Speaking over email to Julie Yoakum, President and Chief Brand Merchant at Helzberg, she confirms that color is having a moment in men's watches this Father's Day. 'We're seeing a surge in demand for timepieces with vibrant dials—deep greens, rich blues, and even bold reds," she says, explaining that the addition of color adds a modern twist that allows dads to express their style and individuality through their wristwear. A Gucci watch with a colorful dial. Bruce Andrews confirms that colored dials have become a leading trend in the watch space as brands continue to expand and experiment. 'The great thing about this trend is its versatility,' he says. From bold shades to softer pastel hues, there are countless palettes and combinations to choose from. If you're after a vintage style, there are some highly coveted Rolex Stella dial watches in a variety of colors, primarily aimed at the Middle Eastern market during the 1970s-1990s. Adding color with these fun timepieces will provide a touch of personality to any outfit. 1972 vintage Rolex oyster datejust (blue). TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph 43mm Men's Watch Alpina Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic, a beautiful timepiece for sports lovers. Another prominent trend is the rise of the sports watch. One such example is the Alpina Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic, designed for use both on land and at sea. Certified as a diver's watch, it features a sporty yet compact design, with water-resistance up to 300 meters. It is available in three variations: an anthracite dial with an integrated steel bracelet, navy blue with a rubber strap, and a bold, orange-accented model. For car enthusiasts, the iconic TAG Heuer Carrera, designed for professional drivers, is now available in a new style. Drawing inspiration from the heat and speed of the track, with its blazing orange colors, this TAG Heuer Carrera Chrono Extreme Sport 44mm Red Automatic Watch embodies a spirit of adventure. It features a beveled domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass with an anti-reflective coating. 1978 vintage Rolex submariner with ghost bezel. For vintage sports options, there are some superb Rolex Submariner styles created in the 1970s that are quintessentially James Bond, and even a 1960s Rolex Submariner famously worn by Sean Connery in Dr No in 1962. When buying antiques or vintage pieces, David Silver tells me that they are far more individual and special and have that added allure of mystery and luxury you cannot get from a modern timepiece. 'It's so nice to have something on your wrist that others don't, for a change,' he says. Finishing touches are also important. He explains that many of his customers either select a vintage watch to match the year of their father's birth or engrave the case back with a scanned handwritten message. The Tissot Men's Pocket Watch is a fun gift this Father's Day. Some modern watches evoke specific eras and interests. Frederique Constant's Vintage Rally Healey automatic is a Limited Edition tribute to classic cars, with only 888 produced worldwide. This watch has a brown leather strap with off-white stitching and a striking green matte finish dial, complemented by a seconds' counter at the 9 o'clock position and a red hand. The timepiece comes in a special gift box featuring a miniature green Healey car. For music lovers, take a look at limited editions, such as Bulova's collaboration with Marc Anthony, that capture the musician's style. The Marc Anthony Series includes a dial accented with diamond hour markers at 1, 3, and 5 o'clock, chosen by Marc for personal significance, and visible through both the dial aperture and an exhibition case back. And there are pocket watches too, which evoke a certain sartorial elegance and decorum, such as the Tissot Men's Pocket Watch. Julie Yoakum adds that these watches are incredibly versatile—whether dad dresses up or keeps it casual, as they can add character to any look. She also tells me that for many, vintage-style timepieces evoke memories of their own fathers and grandfathers, making them especially meaningful gifts for Father's Day. "Plus, the longevity of these pieces is the gift that keeps giving as collections are often passed down through generations,' she confirms. Andrews tells me that vintage design watches are also continuing to capture the imagination this season, thanks to their perfect blend of timeless appeal and modern updates, and that by opting for a new watch with vintage-inspired elements, you get the best of both worlds: classic design with the reliability and performance of a contemporary model. Frederique Constant Vintage Rally Healey Automatic, is a great watch for drivers. There are many high-tech watches available, including some smartwatches, such as the Apple Watch, while others feature a minimalist, understated design with simple square and rectangular styles. These have become more than a watch in the traditional sense and perform a number of functions, from tracking your fitness to connecting to your phone and other devices. Bruce Andrews explains to me that over the past few years, sports watches have become a popular choice for those seeking to blend style with functionality. At their core, these watches are designed to perform under pressure, telling not just the time, but a story of adventure, resilience and precision engineering. He expands by telling me that they're ideal for those who enjoy exercise or are looking to start their fitness journey. 'A high-tech watch is just that—a timepiece that incorporates advanced technology to offer features beyond traditional timekeeping,' he says. With everything you need at the flick of a wrist, high-tech watches, or smartwatches, often feature notifications, apps, fitness tracking or GPS. They can be worn daily or for specific purposes, like fitness tracking for visits to the gym or when training for an upcoming sporting event. The latest Apple Watch, the Series 10, includes a collection of Hermès bands that draws on the maison's rich history in textiles and craftsmanship. They come in several finishes: the Torsade (a cable-knit band inspired by nautical chains, available in single and double tour versions in one of three bold colors), the Twill Jump Attelage (a narrow, delicate single tour band with a contrasting edge and silky feel) and the Grand H, Hermès's first metal band for Apple Watch, made with interlocking links of satin-finished stainless steel. It features two H-shaped, removable links that allow for size adjustment, as well as a traditional double butterfly closure. Apple Watch Series 10 Hermes, Grand H band, in collaboration with Hermes. Other fun straps can be bought to customize your smartwatch in different colors and finishes, such as the Konsu NYC, which are crafted in New York City using Italian top-grain calfskin leather. ' Garmin Tactix 8 47mm AMOLED Smartwatch Whether you opt for a classic or modern design, gifting a watch can be a meaningful and practical gift that dads can enjoy all year round. Bruce Andrews highlights that whether it's for your own father, father-in-law, or a father figure, you're sure to find a match that perfectly suits his style—and give a gift which he can treasure for many years to come. KONSU NYC Apple watch straps can add personality to your smartwatch.
Fashion Network
19-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
Burlington Arcade, Primark and Belstaff owners top fashion arm of Sunday Times Rich List
Once again this year, the fashion industry figures prominently in the Sunday Time Rich List with the 2025 ranking featuring some long-established and more recently famous Rich Listers. The list may not be definitive as it it's based on identifiable wealth and not private things like bank accounts. But it's still the best option out there to find just who's making big money from fashion. David and Simon Reuben with a fortune of almost £27 billion are second on the overall list but are the top fashion-linked names. They own Burlington Arcade, the upmarket central London shopping destination that hosts some of fashion and beauty's top brands. The extended Weston family — Guy, George, Alannah and Galen Weston and family — is the second fashion name with a combined fortune of almost £18 billion. They rose two places this time to number six. They control Primark and Fortnum & Mason (and Holt Renfrew in Canada). Behind them at number seven on over £17 billion is INEOS tycoon Sir Jim Ratcliffe with his company not primarily focused on fashion but making the fashion grade by controlling the Belstaff label. The Duke of Westminster and the Grosvenor family are at number 14 with a net worth of almost £10 billion. While their property interests are diverse, the fact that they own fast tracks of land in central London makes them one of the key fashion retail landlords there. And their ownership of many luxury enclaves in the West End underlines that. At number 23 on £7.7 billion is Anders Holch Povlsen along with his family. He has big stakes in ASOS and Debenhams Group as well as controlling most of Topshop and owning the giant Danish Bestseller business. Also high up on the list at number 28 are Pentland and JD Sports ' Stephen Rubin and family on £6.66 billion; Earl Cadogan and family at number 30 with £6.1 billion (they own the Cadogan estate which induces Sloane street and the King's Road); and Zuber and Mohsin Issa on £6 billion whose purchase of Asda a few years ago also bought them the George at Asda label. A bit further down, Laurence and Francois Graff of the luxury jewellery brand are on £3.65 billion; Baron Howard de Walden and family who control big parts of the Marylebone shopping district are on £3.2 billion; Mike Ashley who owns most of Frasers Group is on £3.1 billion; and River Island 's Bernard Lewis and family are on £2.7 billion. New to this year's list are Castore founders Tom and Phil Beahon. They may only be in 345th place with their joint £350 million fortune, but chances are they'll rise higher in the list as the years go by. Other current and past key names further down the list, all with fortunes in the hundreds of millions, are Barbour 's Dame Margaret and Helen Barbour; Matt and Jodie Moulding of THG; Chrissie Rucker and Nick Wheeler of The White Company and Charles Tyrwhitt; David and Victoria Beckham; Matches founders Tom and Ruth Chapman; and Andrew Killingsworth of Yours Clothing. Meanwhile, Gymshark founder Ben Francis is number four in the The Sunday Times 35 Under 35 Rich List, with his wealth valued at £900 million. Also on the 35 under 35 list are some names likely to be on the main list at some point. They include Lounge Underwear co-founders Daniel and Melanie Marsden on £151 million; footballer turned fashion entrepreneur Reece Wabara of Manière De Voir at £83 million, and AYBL founders Reiss and Kristian Edgerton at £60 million.
Fashion Network
19-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
Burlington Arcade, Primark and Belstaff owners top fashion arm of Sunday Times Rich List
Once again this year, the fashion industry figures prominently in the Sunday Time Rich List with the 2025 ranking featuring some long-established and more recently famous Rich Listers. The list may not be definitive as it it's based on identifiable wealth and not private things like bank accounts. But it's still the best option out there to find just who's making big money from fashion. David and Simon Reuben with a fortune of almost £27 billion are second on the overall list but are the top fashion-linked names. They own Burlington Arcade, the upmarket central London shopping destination that hosts some of fashion and beauty's top brands. The extended Weston family — Guy, George, Alannah and Galen Weston and family — is the second fashion name with a combined fortune of almost £18 billion. They rose two places this time to number six. They control Primark and Fortnum & Mason (and Holt Renfrew in Canada). Behind them at number seven on over £17 billion is INEOS tycoon Sir Jim Ratcliffe with his company not primarily focused on fashion but making the fashion grade by controlling the Belstaff label. The Duke of Westminster and the Grosvenor family are at number 14 with a net worth of almost £10 billion. While their property interests are diverse, the fact that they own fast tracks of land in central London makes them one of the key fashion retail landlords there. And their ownership of many luxury enclaves in the West End underlines that. At number 23 on £7.7 billion is Anders Holch Povlsen along with his family. He has big stakes in ASOS and Debenhams Group as well as controlling most of Topshop and owning the giant Danish Bestseller business. Also high up on the list at number 28 are Pentland and JD Sports ' Stephen Rubin and family on £6.66 billion; Earl Cadogan and family at number 30 with £6.1 billion (they own the Cadogan estate which induces Sloane street and the King's Road); and Zuber and Mohsin Issa on £6 billion whose purchase of Asda a few years ago also bought them the George at Asda label. A bit further down, Laurence and Francois Graff of the luxury jewellery brand are on £3.65 billion; Baron Howard de Walden and family who control big parts of the Marylebone shopping district are on £3.2 billion; Mike Ashley who owns most of Frasers Group is on £3.1 billion; and River Island's Bernard Lewis and family are on £2.7 billion. New to this year's list are Castore founders Tom and Phil Beahon. They may only be in 345th place with their joint £350 million fortune, but chances are they'll rise higher in the list as the years go by. Other current and past key names further down the list, all with fortunes in the hundreds of millions, are Barbour 's Dame Margaret and Helen Barbour; Matt and Jodie Moulding of THG; Chrissie Rucker and Nick Wheeler of The White Company and Charles Tyrwhitt; David and Victoria Beckham; Matches founders Tom and Ruth Chapman; and Andrew Killingsworth of Yours Clothing. Meanwhile, Gymshark founder Ben Francis is number four in the The Sunday Times 35 Under 35 Rich List, with his wealth valued at £900 million. Also on the 35 under 35 list are some names likely to be on the main list at some point. They include Lounge Underwear co-founders Daniel and Melanie Marsden on £151 million; footballer turned fashion entrepreneur Reece Wabara of Manière De Voir at £83 million, and AYBL founders Reiss and Kristian Edgerton at £60 million.
Grazia USA
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Grazia USA
A New Chapter: Egyptian Jewellery Maison Azza Fahmy Expands Its Legacy In London
Photo: @azzafahmy Instagram A Maison known for its unapologetic jewellery designs that blend homages to history with modern design, Azza Famy has officially cemented its presence in London with its reimagined space. Though the brand is no stranger to British shores, having opened its first temporary boutique in the area back in 2018, this new chapter marks a new significant beginning as it launches a more immersive store which showcases the latest collections and features interiors that beautifully nod back to its Egyptian roots. Founded by Azza Fahmy in 1969, the jewellery house has undoubtedly come a long way to showcase its timeless craftsmanship and finesse. With the reimagined location, the brand's creative director and youngest daughter of Azza, Amina Ghali, invites visitors into a space filled with the nation's rich tapestry, from thoughtful decor that evokes the spirit of Egypt to artisanal handcrafts. Photo: @azzafahmy Instagram At the Burlington Arcade boutique store, visitors will find its signature lines, from Ottoman-inspired pieces to exquisite high jewellery designs. Carving out a space for Egyptian luxury, the upgraded location was designed by London-based Universal Design Studio. Every corner of the store offers onlookers and customers a true journey through Egypt's most famed jewellery house, from its beginning in 1975 to its modern face. Announcing their latest move, the jewellery brand took to Instagram and wrote, 'Burlington Arcade has been our home in London—a space where we shared our story and welcomed our community.' Adding, 'Today, we open our flagship boutique just a few steps away [from the old store, 27]. It's been thoughtfully designed to celebrate Azza Fahmy's enduring love for culture and craftsmanship.' The brand concluded, saying,' A place to discover, connect, and be inspired, 58–59 Burlington Arcade is where we bring a piece of Egypt to London.'
