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.
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The Berkeley Hotel in London has championed this very fine tradition in its fabulous Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea.
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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.
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Fendi’s yellow buttercup raincoat biscuit is in tribute to Karl Lagerfeld.
![Pret-a-Portea at the Berkeley](https://www.littlelondonwhispers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/PretaPortea6.jpg)
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.
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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.
![Pret-a-Portea at the Berkeley](https://www.littlelondonwhispers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/PretaPortea1.jpg)
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