The autumn collections might be in store already, but it’s still summer in the city – just – so allow us to help you squeeze every last drop out of the season
Golden pineapple
We think no summer suitcase is complete without one of these TAIKKA ananas+ clutch bags, not least because they’re made from pineapple leaves (oh so tropical). Crafted from Piñatex, a plant-based material that mimics the appearance and function of leather, and fully lined with cotton canvas, the bags prove that eco-fashion need not sacrifice style or functionality.
£95 (taikka.com)
Naturally beautiful hair
We love summer in the city, but our lovely locks probably wouldn’t agree. UV rays and air pollution both make hair look and feel dry (never mind sand and sea). Toughen up tresses with a winning haircare regime from Leonor Greyl. Their natural shampoos, conditioners and styling products are designed to cleanse, neutralise and create a barrier against environmental aggressors. They are SLS-free and formulated using organic ingredients where possible, and the stylish bottles won’t look amiss on your bathroom shelf, either.
Prices from £19.50, stockists include John Bell & Croyden (leonorgreyl.com)
La vie en rose
Don’t miss The Urban Retreat’s Rose Festival. This month the marocMaroc spa will be offering limited edition rose Hammam rituals. Deeply relaxing, the cleansing treatment leaves skin beautifully soft. Better yet, everybody who experiences the ritual will receive a complimentary Rose Velours Body Milk, and be entered into a draw to win a trip to the Royal Mansour, Marrakech.
£150 for a 60 minute ritual. Urban Retreat, Fifth floor Harrods, Knightsbridge, SW1X (020 7893 8333; urbanretreat.co.uk)
The lunch bunch
Not beach ready? There’s still time… Take decisive action with the ultimate health and fitness package from chicken rotisserie Cocotte and fitness studio BARREtoned. The one-hour barre class has been designed to work each muscle group, improving posture as well as toning with minimal sweat (perfect for hot London days). It’s followed by a post-workout salad and iced tea around the corner at Cocotte.
Monday-Friday until September 1. £30.50, bookings through BARREToned, Notting Hill Studio, 12 Chepstow Road, W2 (020 7229 8668; barretoned.com; mycocotte.uk)