Town & Country UK Autumn 2018

A good magazine – and I hope you’ll agree that Town & Country is one – tends to evolve over time, from a series of conversations between the people who create it together, as well as with those we feature in our pages and, of course, you, our readers. Recently, I’ve discovered (thanks to your letters and emails) that we have a growing circulation abroad as well as in the United Kingdom, and this sense of kinship thrills me, given our love of sharing the stories that are at the heart of an ancient realm. Sometimes, these are the ones that we heard as children, and then read to our own children. Hence in this issue, when we discovered that our cover star Hayley Atwell is starring in a new…

FRANCES HEDGES As Sotheby’s London launches its first auction dedicated solely to lots made from gold, our associate editor examines the enduring allure of this precious metal on page 138. She also edits the Town & Country website and has been known to bake the most delectable of butternut squash pies. Autumn has arrived when… ‘I feel a childlike urge to run around collecting conkers.’ A favourite country walk ‘Squelching through the damp grass on Oxford’s Port Meadow, with the promise of a large glass of wine in the Trout pub at the end.’ A London landmark you’d like to live in ‘The Geffrye Museum, with its interiors from centuries past. I could live in a different era every night!’ FIE LUCAN The 8th Countess of Lucan discusses rebranding her family name with…

With a guest list likely to include two Princes, a Princess and at least one Duchess, this is surely the most eagerly anticipated society event since Meghan and Harry’s nuptials. The style stakes are similarly high: think pink – and baby blue and other soft pastel shades in deliciously feminine shapes. A floral-print dress by Dolce & Gabbana, a candy-coloured Louis Vuitton bag and delicate Tabitha Simmons kitten heels will respectfully show off your fashionable flair. PHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY IMAGES, REX FEATURES, PIXELATE. SEE STOCKISTS FOR DETAILS.…

Nothing exemplifies the idea of power dressing like a Royal tour, where the wardrobe is entirely an exercise in diplomacy. The new Duchess of Sussex should embark on her first visit to Australia wearing Ralph & Russo, of course: the brand’s designer Tamara Ralph comes from Sydney, where Prince Harry is hosting the Invictus Games this October. Sidestepping the evening-tuxedo question, a glorious velvet gown by Erdem, British-based but Canadian-born, is another elegant tribute to the Commonwealth. PHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY IMAGES, REX FEATURES, PIXELATE. SEE STOCKISTS FOR DETAILS.…

If the dress code for the last Windsor Castle wedding was about standing out in the paparazzi photographs (yes, we’re all looking at you, Amal Clooney), this is altogether a more relaxed affair. Well, relatively speaking: a feminine frock by Emilia Wickstead in blush pink, pearl-adorned Jimmy Choo accessories and a Philip Treacy hat trimmed with posies will give the requisite air of pretty polish. Don’t hold back on the diamonds – Chanel’s ring can impress any company. PHOTOGRAPHS: RICHARD PHIBBS, GETTY IMAGES, PIXELATE. SEE STOCKISTS FOR DETAILS.…

Did someone call for drama? Rule the red carpet in a scarlet slither of Emilia Wickstead sequins, accessorised with Bulgari’s darling ruby and diamond drop earrings. Or opt for Jenny Packham’s tulle cape dress, embellished with as many stars as the night sky, then add even more sparkle with Manolo mules and a William & Son bag. Romantics may prefer Oscar de la Renta’s velvet and chiffon gown, a dream in crimson and pink; a Cartier watch provides a glittering finishing touch. PHOTOGRAPHS: REGAN CAMERON, GETTY IMAGES, PIXELATE.SEE STOCKISTS FOR DETAILS.…