Fashionista tea

The tradition of afternoon tea is widely credited to Anna Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford and a great friend of Queen Victoria.  So, of course, we had to go to tea in London and where better than The Berkeley in Knightsbridge?

Back at the turn of the 19th century, The Berkeley was one of the few places that parents would allow their debutante daughters to go unchaperoned.  (Of course, Nicole was not about to let the girls go to tea unchaperoned.)

Over the years, The Berkeley has become a favorite in fashion circles and their afternoon "Pret-a-Portea" plays to that audience.  The delicacies are inspired by the fashion line of the season.  On our visit, we had a cherry bavorois and coconut cream inspired by Jason Wu's romantic pink and white ensemble, as well as biscuits that looked like Christian Louboutin heels and Miu Miu bikinis.  

After much sampling, we did finally choose a favorite: the Gucci-inspired Grand Marnier and dark Valrhona chocolate mousse embellished with gold chocolate beads.  

So many treats, so little time.  

Anna & Sophie with Louboutin stiletto chocolate biscuit
and D&G blueberry spongecake purse