As hotels become more and more creative with their themed teas, it is hard not to fall in love again with this wonderful tradition. It is a long love affair the British are very happy to share, and one that began with the life long friend of Queen Victoria, the Duchess of Bedford.
The Berkeley Hotel in London has championed this very fine tradition in its fabulous Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea.
Each year the tea has fashion’s elite join the front row. Designers from Jason Wu, Burberry, Manolo Blahnik, Paul Smith and even Heidi Klein threw in a bikini and joined in the party. In 2019, Prêt-à-Portea was dedicated entirely to the the designer of dreams, Christian Dior. It was in celebration of the exquisite exhibition at the V&A.
AW2019 at Prêt-à-Portea
The AW19 new cakewalk was unveiled in October, featuring a new collection of beautifully designed cakes by head of pastry, Mourad Khiat.
Moschino takes a green twirl with a nod to Jeremy Scott’s one million dollar bill money print collection.
Fendi’s yellow buttercup raincoat biscuit is in tribute to Karl Lagerfeld.
Molly Goddard’s stunning electric pink finale dress with 100 metres of neon netting that filled our screens on Killing Eve, is a pink showstopper.
This eclectic inspired dress is a pink spun-sugar cake. It has a delicious cinnamon financier, filled with a delicate apple puree. Finished off table side with a spray of glitter – oh the pure joy!
Emilia Wickstead’s red velvet gown, inspired by the film, The Godfather, was as delicious as it was beautiful, whilst Richard Quinn’s floral gown, latex boots akimbo with a delicate blue bow, is a sure crowd pleaser.
The ‘Micro Chiquito’ bag, given it can literally only hold a couple of coins, is totally impractical for daily use. However, it is the perfect size to pop into your mouth in one micro ladylike mouthful!
A monthly surprise of the good kind… at Prêt-à-Portea
Each month at the Berkeley tea there is a couture cake special… a fashion insider who will create a show stopper. October held court with Erin O’Connor, November has the creative and director of Jimmy Choo, Sandra Choi.
Each 2019 insider creates a unique cake representing their own style and iconic brand. Inspired by their own wardrobe, or maybe a piece of vintage fashion. It could be a stand out moment from their own fashion journey. It is like a curate’s egg – expect a delightful surprise.
Verdict on our Prêt-à-Portea
Seriously this is a gorgeous tea for the festive season… It is the perfect gift for your girlfriend, daughter or a treat with your mother. At LLW we love experiences and it is something we shout out about all the time. Creating memories can indeed be fashionable darling!
Prêt-à-Portea starts at £60PP Berkeley Hotel