The London season whirls you into a frenzy of thrilling events, but there are three in particular that I always make a point to attend: the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, and the summer parties at the V&A and the Serpentine Gallery.
Preparing for the Serpentine party at my mother Suzanna’s house with my friend, tennis legend Venus Williams—who co-hosted the event—felt like a pre-party in itself.
For the occasion, I wore a stunning strapless red gown by Vivienne Westwood, while Venus dazzled in a custom white halter gown arranged by Marco Capaldo, the creative director of fashion label 16Arlington—who had no idea he was coming to my house until I opened the door.
The Serpentine Gallery Summer Party
The event drew a crowd of A-listers and fashionistas, and we spent the evening mingling in the elegant pavilion with notable figures from society and style, including fashion designer, singer, and socialite Daphne Guinness, It-girl Lady Lola Bute, actress Minnie Driver, and model Jourdan Dunn.
After meeting Bettina Korek, the Serpentine Gallery’s chief executive, and artistic director Hans Ulrich Obrist, I couldn’t resist the tempting offerings at the dessert buffet, which featured oversized floral and fruity cakes and nougat.
Later, we continued the festivities at the newly renovated Roof Gardens, undoubtedly the place to be. The following day was a quick change from gown to gym kit as I embarked on a 6:30 am circuit of the park before dropping my boys off at school.
The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition
Even renowned artists go through the submissions process. Amidst mingling with celebrity guests such as radio broadcaster and TV host Clara Amfo, legendary actress and comedian Jennifer Saunders, and actor Ed McVey (whom I ran into more than once this month), artist Gavin Turk, who had two pieces accepted this year, leaned in and whispered to me, “Can you imagine how I would have felt if one had been rejected? Phew!”
Art has always been my passion—I studied art history at UCL—and a significant aspect of the fascinating work I do at my home, Longleat House, involves the conservation of fine art. While the events I attend in London exude glamour, beneath the surface, there’s a meaningful purpose. The publicity and sponsor contributions they generate play a crucial role in supporting emerging talent and making art accessible, thereby ensuring the survival of these institutions.
Enjoyment is also integral to the experience. Adorned in my Elie Saab gown for the Royal Academy, I made my way to the VIP suite where music producers Hale Zero entertained guests, and lavish cocktails were served alongside opulent oysters and bangers and mash. Meeting one of my music idols, Neneh Cherry, and her daughter Mabel, both inspiring women, was a genuine thrill.
As I departed, I crossed paths with The Good Wife actress Cush Jumbo and exchanged waves with Cora Corré, granddaughter of Vivienne Westwood, whom I had recently met at Christie’s Vivienne Westwood exhibition before the auction of her private collection. I fondly recall Cora’s heartfelt words at her grandmother’s memorial and her stunning appearance as a runway bride in a white lace bodysuit at the VW show in Paris last year.
My husband, Ceawlin, Lord Bath, has always accompanied me to Vivienne Westwood events, and he enjoyed this one immensely. I have a deep admiration for Vivienne and her designs, and as I walked among the display of her personal items, I felt a profound sense of emotion—it was almost as if she were present with us.
Naomi in Fashion Exhibition
Fashion and art converged once more at the V&A for the debut of the Naomi in Fashion exhibition.
In the presence of supermodel Kate Moss and film director Sir Steve McQueen, Naomi Campbell delivered a heartfelt speech, reminiscing about passing by the museum on her school bus route and expressing her overwhelming joy at sharing the exhibition with her two children.
It was a resounding success and provided a breathtaking glimpse into the life of one of the fashion industry’s greatest legends of all time.
