The Perfect Pairing

If I had to plan my dream weekend, it would probably include visiting an exhibition and having afternoon tea. Whenever I get asked this kind of question, it just seems better than saying 'lazing in my pjs and watching First Dates'. An exhibition means you've broadened your knowledge somewhat and afternoon tea sorts out any fancy cake cravings. Last Saturday, I managed to make it to Women Fashion Power at the Design Museum before trying out the foodie version at the W Hotel. The exhibit celebrates strong, inspiring women throughout the past 150 odd years and the clothes that helped them to do their thing. It's a pretty broad topic but has been condensed to significant movements, anything from brassieres (apparently my Nan still calls them this) to the chunky platforms of the Spice Girls. There's a lot to be amazed at and relate to and you can't help wondering where things will go next.

Can all exhibitions come with their own afternoon tea please? I brought my Mum along to review everything as it was definitely her kind of thing, (I joked that she could have her own museum with the amount of stuff she owned) and we carried on chatting about fashion and life over some tasty treats. The W Hotel has an interesting take on such a traditional pastime, I've become a bit of a connoisseur in recent years and I know a decent egg mayonnaise sandwich when I taste it. The sweet treats were the main point of difference though, inspired by Coco Chanel's pearls, Vivienne Westwood's hair and even Lady Gaga's meat dress (though the cake is red velvet, instead of beef). Even the usual Rock Tea is a modern twist on the institution and I hear they'll be updating everything further over the coming months. Even though the location is nestled by the madness of Leicester Square, you feel as if you're enjoying the best bits of London.

The Women Fashion Power exhibition and accompanying afternoon tea both run until April 26th, make sure you make it to at least one!