Home is …
Montclair, New Jersey, with my husband Steven, our two dogs, and sometimes one or two of the kids. I’ve lived in this house for 38 years.
Where do you stay in London?
It wouldn’t be a trip to London without a stay at Claridge’s. It’s the perfect hideaway for some R&R. If you’re looking for classic luxury, this is the one. I’ve always been an Anglophile. There’s just something about the scene in London that I love. It immediately puts me in a better mood.
Where would you recommend for a first date?
I don’t know about a first date, but for a second definitely Scott’s for a martini. It’s one of my favourite places — very romantic, very traditional and incredibly cosy.
Which shops do you rely on?
Always Anya Hindmarch, because every time I visit, there’s something different, and also Smythson — I have the date books and cases for my glasses. Then Paul Smith for coats and jackets, and Liberty London. After saying hello to the beauty counter, I love walking through the store for the best fashion and cutest little things for my purse.
What’s the best meal you’ve had ?
Believe it or not, at Scott’s. I love the Dover sole and they make the best martinis.
Who is the most iconic Londoner?
Probably my only regret in life is that I never got to meet Queen Elizabeth II. I always admired her. Maybe it’s because we shared a certain stature — both in height and in life — or because she was a mother and grandmother who genuinely cared about people.
Where do you go to have fun?
All I have to do is walk around with my husband. There’s nothing better than London during the Christmas holidays, when the lights are as bright as can be. We walk down the streets, find a cosy pub or restaurant and grab an ice cream on the way home. That’s why I always wear sneakers in London.
What’s the best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?
I actually have a London cabbie I call every time I’m in town. His name is John and one of my co-workers met him years ago. He’s the sweetest guy — I always hear updates about his kids and his wife.
Where do you exercise?
On the streets. My husband and I put our sneakers on first thing in the morning and walk everywhere — museums, lunch, shopping. We easily do more than 20,000 steps a day, and it’s the best.
Have you ever had a run in with a police officer?
No, but I did learn they’re called “Bobbies,” which made me laugh.
What’s your biggest extravagance?
Shopping. For some reason, buying something in London always feels more fashion-forward and right to me.
What’s your London secret?
Definitely The Connaught. The management are wonderful — they always take such good care of me.
Where do you let your hair down?
There is amazing nightlife in London, but honestly I’m usually asleep by 10.30pm. My ideal night is having a drink at my friend Martin’s restaurant, Blank.
Who do you call when you want to have fun?
I have so many old colleagues and friends in London. It never really matters where we are; we always end up having a laugh.
What are you up to for work?
We have just launched the Jones Road Bright Skin illuminating drops. This is my vacation in a bottle. Three drops and I look like I just got off a plane from somewhere warm.
What do you collect?
Apparently, eyeglasses. I don’t mean to, but somehow I have a lot. And purses too — luckily I have daughters-in-law and a girlfriend-in-law who help me share them.
What’s your favourite work of art?
I discovered a graffiti artist named Endless and I’ve been collecting his work ever since.
What’s your favourite beauty spot?
There’s a group of spas that does incredible red-light facials called The Light Salon.
When you’re in need of headspace, where do you go?
I put on a robe, take a bath, get into bed with a cup of tea and listen to the BBC, just so I can hear the accents.
