If we had our way, dressing for the cocktail hour would be compulsory. Just like it was in the 1950s/early 1960s. Sharp suits and pocket handkerchiefs for the gents and beautifully cut dresses and heels for the gals. Hats and gloves, although not compulsory would do very nicely for both…
Not that we’re advocating this kind of attire for your average night out in Shoreditch (although if the mood takes you, why not?); we’re thinking more along the lines of getting jooshed up for some swanky Mayfair action. The Connaught, The Coburg, The Beaufort Bar at The Savoy, The Donovan Bar at Browns – establishments of this ilk all warrant something smarter than jeans and a T-shirt n’est pas? After all, if you’re paying £10+ for a cocktail you may as well look the part and psychologically, a bit of slap and a fancy frock always turns going out into much more of an occasion.
That’s why Ms S has added the recently opened pop-up shop Voy to her hotlist. Chock-full of dresses that make ladies come over all Audrey-like and elegant, the designs celebrate femininity without being overtly girly. Think off-duty Hollywood starlet and you’ve got the right idea.
Vesta Okyere-Yeboah’s designs are inspired by haute couture styles from the late 1940s and 1950s, focusing on smart daywear and cocktail dresses, fitted tops, A-line skirts and beautiful nipped-in jackets, all made in the UK from quality British fabrics. Styles are available online, off-the-peg or, if you’re feeling flush, bespoke – made to fit and flatter your every curve. Add a chunky cocktail ring, a pair of kitten heels and a slick of red lippy and you’re done.
Voy, 18 New Quebec Street, W1H 7DG. Open Tues-Sat 10am-6pm
2 Responses
ohh….fun. i’m a big fan of cocktail dresses & would love to see more people make an occassion of it and do something more than throw on last night’s jeans and a rumpled shirt before going out. 🙂
Our thoughts precisely!