Retail therapy

Apr 12 2008 by Hannah Davies, The Journal

THE selection of Steven Harkin handbags at @Fernavenue in Jesmond is so ladylike. The sophisticated architectural shapes in vegetable tanned Italian leather manages to mix traditional, handcrafted techniques with almost futuristic industrial fixings, hence the aluminium and metal handles. Inside, a suede ‘cave’ of internal pockets keeps all items safe. ‘Babs’ in Zinnia Orange is £185. @Fernavenue, (0191) 209-4321. www.fernavenue.co.uk

LADIES don’t do bare legs; it’s so much posher to be sheer and we’ve seen some very fine pairs from the Charnos Simply Bare range at House of Fraser. In five shades, they’re £3.95 for tights and £5 for hold ups. For cocktails try the silver grey sheers from the Elegance range (also HofF), £4 for tights and £6 for hold ups and stockings.

LADIES who lunch and love chocolate will be clamouring to be at the Richard Sinton Jeweller-sponsored Chocolate Journey event (Thursday May 1) at Jesmond Dene House. The chocolate inspired and champagne fuelled lunch includes a tasting and demonstration by Sarah Jayne Stanes, Chairwoman of the Academy of Chocolate and William Curley, holder of Best British Chocolatier 2007 award. Tickets are £40, (0191) 212-3000.

HOW elegant cashmere can be and perfect for spring when blended with cotton. This Heather Grey sleeveless top with tie neck, £59, sizes 8-18, by Pure mail order has two mini hip pockets and a bust pocket, also in Rich Chocolate, Cobalt and Black. The lined linen drawstring trousers are £79, also sizes 8-18, and also in Chocolate. Mail Order 0844 848-1030 or online at www.purecollection.com

LADIES wanting a good, stout recycled shopping bag would maybe recoil at having one made from an old ‘dumpy’ builder’s bag. But in the hands of Mary Ryder of Riding Mill, dumpies are trimmed with sprigged floral cotton and sport carpet webbing handles. Mary started making them to raise money for her favourite cancer charity My New Hair founded by hairdresser Trevor Sorbie. They are available exclusively at the Justin Smart Wholesale and Retail Vegetable Warehouse at Tyne Mills Industrial Estate in Hexham. Donations of £5 and over go straight to the charity (01434) 609497.