STYLE, LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Over the years, living in France has taught me invaluable life lessons — from approaching style and travel to embracing beauty, lifestyle, and ageing gracefully. I first came to France more than 30 years ago, fully expecting to stay for just one year. But life, as it often does, had a different plan. What was …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to Europe’s Most Beautiful Christmas Markets: A Timeless Winter Travel Guide. Christmas in Europe is a time for magical fairy lights, mulled wine, delicious pastries, midnight masses in gothic churches, Christmas wishlists, candle-lit evenings spent with family and friends, and of course –Christmas Markets. From charming …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to the Best New Year Destinations 2026: Top Ten Places to Celebrate in Style, by Senior Editor, Hannah REES. Whether you dream of waltzing beneath fireworks in Vienna, chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, or celebrating barefoot on Zanzibar’s beaches, there’s no better way to welcome …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to Paris style Autumn/Winter 2025. Amongst the things that are envied about the French, their sense of fashion is certainly high up on the list. It’s true — everyone wants to dress like a Parisienne : the effortless elegance, the timeless flair and that “je ne …
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this feature about Garage Conversion Ideas: Five creative ways to turn your garage into a useful extension of your home. Have you ever wondered why the largest room in many homes is often packed with boxes, old paint tins, and rusty tools that haven’t been touched for years? …
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this feature about 5 Simple Home Upgrades That Make Your Space More Comfortable and Connected. There’s something refreshing about walking into a home that feels warm, inviting, and effortlessly functional. These days, comfort isn’t just about soft cushions or a fresh coat of paint — it’s also about …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Effortless Winter Style: Pieces That Turn Heads Without Trying. There’s something about winter that brings out a certain presence in people — a quiet confidence that stands out without effort. Maybe it’s the crisp air that makes everything feel cinematic, or maybe it’s the fact …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and this article about Why Learning to Sail Is Becoming the New Luxury Travel Skill. Travel is evolving. While relaxing at a resort will always have appeal, modern travelers increasingly want something deeper—experiences that feel meaningful, skill-building, and connected to nature. Today’s new luxury is not just about where …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about a Vancouver Island road trip: Exploring Victoria, Nanaimo & Tofino. When people hear Vancouver Island, they often picture historic harbours, misty forests, quaint surf towns, and wild beaches… and that is exactly what the island delivers ! So whether you are drawn to the call …
Paris is always a good idea—even more so when the festive season draws nearer and the entire city transforms into a winter wonderland. As soon as the spooky season is over and the weather turns colder, festive decorations and twinkling lights begin to appear throughout the city. A few weeks later, as November ends, Christmas …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to Mardi Gras Around the World: How Different Cultures Celebrate. Mardi Gras has many names worldwide—Carnival in Italy and Brazil, Fasching in Germany, or Pancake Day in the UK. Whatever the name, it’s all about one last big celebration before the start of Lent. It’s a …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Black Friday: How to Prepare & Shop the Best Deals, with deals from some of my favorite brands. It’s that time of year when we start talking about and preparing the holiday season, and I am already thinking about decorating the Christmas tree and the …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Ten Ways to Wear a Belt. Belts are one of the most underrated accessories in a wardrobe. They quietly shape the body, refine an outfit, and bring structure to silhouettes that might otherwise feel loose or unfinished. They’re also one of the easiest and most …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about How to Elevate a Simple Outfit With Texture and Fit. There’s something so wonderful about being able to just get dressed without needing to think it through for ages before you do it, but still walking out of the door feeling (and looking) polished, confident …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about 7 Cultural Activities to Add to Your Thailand Bucket List. Thailand’s beauty goes far beyond its picture-perfect beaches and ornate temples. The real heart of the country reveals itself through its traditions, rituals, flavours, and the warm hospitality woven into everyday life. To truly understand …
Whenever speaking of Paris, the Marais seems to be a word that hangs on everyone’s lips — sounding like a mysterious, trendy and maze-like area. That is exactly what the neighbourhood offers, with cobbled-stoned streets leading to hidden courtyards and secret squares. Because of this, I believe that the Marais truly captures what the city …
Today, I want to share five compelling reasons to wear cashmere, along with expert style tips, care advice, and guidance on choosing sustainably sourced pieces. Some fabrics whisper elegance, and cashmere is one of them. Long before “quiet luxury” became a trend, French women were wearing cashmere sweaters as part of their winter uniform — …
If you are a fan of the festive season, chances are you have already heard of Aachen, the stunning medieval city in western Germany, nestled between the borders of France and Belgium and you may also have heard of the Aachen Christmas Market. For those of you who don’t know the town, imagine a city …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about How to Wear a Bold Print. Wearing a bold print can transform your outfit instantly, express personality without saying a word, and bring a sense of playfulness to even the most classic wardrobe. But many women tell me they feel unsure about wearing prints — …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about The Art of Celebrating Christmas French Style at Le Majestic Cannes. Every December, the Croisette glows with a special kind of magic — a blend of winter light, Riviera warmth, and the effortless glamour that defines Cannes. At the heart of it all, Hôtel Barrière …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Why Yacht Holidays Are the Ultimate Luxury Escape. Yacht getaways are the ultimate treat for anyone looking to combine luxury with a true sense of freedom. Rather than following the well-trodden path of regular holidays, a trip on a yacht lets you switch off from …
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this feature about How a Cozy Café Menu Creates the Perfect Hangout Spot for Friends. There’s something irresistibly comforting about stepping into a cozy café. The moment you push open the door, the scent of freshly ground beans and the soft hum of conversation invite you to slow …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about French Beauty Multi-Taskers: Effortless Skincare and Makeup the Parisian Way by Senior Editor, Hannah Rees. Everyone loves a multitasker — just look at the rise of the smartwatch, the smart mirror, or the blender with a heating function. Our tastes and needs have evolved, and …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature with our 5 Tips for Building the Perfect Ring Stack. Ring stacking has turned into a major style trend, and people are now wearing layered rings with everything—professional outfits, casual looks, and even special-occasion dressing. The mix of metals, textures, and shapes makes every hand look …
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this feature about Planning the Perfect Winter Proposal . Winter is magical, with the crisp air, festive cheer, and quiet beauty. It’s the perfect backdrop for an intimate and unforgettable winter proposal. It could be on a cosy evening by the fire or a breathtaking snowy escape. The atmosphere, …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to the “Habits de Lumière” Epernay : a celebration of champagne and light, by Senior Editor, Hannah Rees. You’ve probably already heard of Reims, the capital of the Champagne region of France, known for its stunning Cathedral where Charlemagne was crowned — as well as, of …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Noticing Thinning Hair? Here’s What Can Help You Restore Fullness. Thinning hair often starts quietly. Maybe the ponytail feels smaller. Maybe the part line looks a little wider in bright light. Even people in places known for beauty culture notice these early shifts and wonder …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about the Best Aruba Excursions & Sunset Cruise Guide for 2025. Aruba, often called the “One Happy Island,” is one of the Caribbean’s most beloved destinations. Known for its year-round sunshine, turquoise waters, and friendly culture, Aruba offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. While …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about 10 Blogging Mistakes I Made (And How You Can Avoid Them!). Starting a blog is exciting—it opens up a whole new world of creativity, community, and even income potential. But as rewarding as it is, blogging also comes with its fair share of trial and …
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this feature about Muntins: Design Inspiration and Practical Applications for Modern Homes. Windows define the spirit of any residential or commercial property, providing light, style, and connection to the outdoors. One of the most iconic yet sometimes overlooked features of traditional and modern windows is the muntin, the …