Nicky Haslam guest blogs for ACHICA Living

Those who know me may be familiar with my penchant for offering opinions on a variety of things! So when ACHICA Living asked me for my list of ‘favourite things’ I was compelled to compile it – from a classy Jaguar to my favourite blogs of the moment – yes, I admit to checking in on the ACHICA Living blog from time to time too. It all feeds into the folder in my brain I tap into for inspiration for my interior designs, my fashion selections and also, most recently, my new NH Design blog where my charismatic creative director, Colette van den Thillart and I natter about what’s hot, what’s not and everything in between. (Colette is pictured with me above at the launch of my new book – Redeeming Features).

I’ve compiled this list in between preparing for my performance last night at The Savoy to celebrate the re-opening of the fabulous Beaufort Bar. The room is to die for, black with gold niches – the smartest room in the Savoy – well it certainly was after I had finished moving the furniture and rearranging the cushions (once an interior designer, always an interior designer!)

Guests over the past two nights have included 80 friends including the wonderful Cilla Black, Barry Humphries, Gary Kemp and Dave Gilmour. I performed (*note: not sang – I’m only too aware my talents lie in interiors and not singing) magical songs by Cole Porter whose lyrics have such depth – I simply adore his music.

So, without further ado, here is my list of favourite things. And Santa Claus, if you’re reading, I could really do with that new Jaguar in my stocking!

Favourite car…

The most elegant car by far is the new Jaguar XJ. There’s something so timeless and absolutely luxurious about the brand and I can’t wait to get my hands on one of these coveted felines.

Favourite scent…

I wear Terre by Hermes, which just seems to suit my chemistry. When I designed my scented candle it sort of conjured old waxen floors, the scent of which puts me in a dream state.

Favourite colour…

Violet is my favourite colour because its ‘up’ and goes with everything – I use it on and with everything and it puts everyone in high spirits.

Favourite item of clothing…

My most current item is from Topman – on Friday afternoons I try to find time to head over to Topman to browse the latest arrivals and do some shopping. I adore re-invention, so it’s usually a mix of vintage, good tailoring, and a trend-setting twist.

Favourite fabric…

My Nicky Haslam for NH Design fabrics and wallpapers are the fruition of many favourite designs developed for specific jobs.  Not only do they look terrific, but they also carry the fond memories of what inspired them, and of course, the beautiful job where I first used them.

Favourite blogs right now…

I’m having a really good time with our own NH Design blog at the moment – it is just brilliant to have a place where my Creative Director Colette van den Thillart and I can finally share all the many things that inspire us every day. Other blogs I like to peruse include my good friend Amanda Eliasch’s Rats Tails. I also love reading The Peak of Chic and All the Best.

Favourite bag…

For travel…my ancient Louis Vuitton… for day to day, a perfectly worn leather satchel I bought at the market in Basingstoke years ago.

Favorite item of the moment…

My 24k gold Nokia phone with its white leather sleeve – j’adore…

The ACHICA Living blog brings you style inspiration from ACHICA.com, the members-only luxury lifestyle store.

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