Linda Farrow x Matthew Williamson Tea
Yesterday, as London basked in its hottest September day in 150 years, there was no better place to cool down than the oasis that is Matthew’s newly designed courtyard at Blakes. Linda Farrow, our long-time sunglasses collaborator hosted afternoon tea to reveal our new AW16 collection – ‘Calypso’.



Tables were set with bespoke place names by Papier, blooms by Rowan Blossom and of course, cake stands of scones, mini sandwiches and mille-feuilles prepared by the chefs of this iconic hotel. Guests including Martha Ward, Rose Thomas and the Hemsleys fluttered in butterfly sunglasses between sips of (iced) tea. The birdcage, now painted golden under Matthew’s direction, became a hub of laughter, toasts and twirls.



Monty the zebra oversaw proceedings from his pedestal on the geometric-patterned wall, designed by Matthew and painted by the studio. The gossip? A zebra never shares his secrets.
With thanks to Benefit Cosmetics for their party bag gifts so guests could get the look of our new campaign, created by head make-up artist Lisa Potter-Dixon.
