EDITOR’S LETTER
Perhaps it’s a universal desire, or perhaps it was Noel Streatfeild’s Circus Shoes that did it, but for about a year of my childhood, I planned quite seriously to run away to join the circus. Having no gymnastic ability whatsoever, and being afraid of heights, I knew that my only hope was to be taken on as an animal trainer. So the long-suffering Labrador was put through intensive coaching, until he could leap a course of hurdles at a word of command without dislodging his teddy-bear jockey. We never got our big break, alas, but the sawdust has not quite left my veins. It is in that spirit that I now invite you to roll up, roll up, ladies and gentlemen, and take your seats for the greatest show on Earth! Yes, the long-awaited British summer is on at last, and to ensure that you don’t miss a moment, Town & Country offers your essential guide to all its fun, feasts, fashion and fantasy.
For our first dazzling act, we invite you to follow in the hoofprints of Tony the Unicorn and join us in Giffords’ big top, as Flora Watkins slips behind the canvas to meet the new ringmaster of this beloved and eccentric British cultural institution. Now, put your hands together for the star of our show, Lady Kitty Spencer, who shines on the cover in fairy-tale Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda, and in a rare interview, tells us about her idyllic memories of childhood at Althorp and how her appearance at a Royal wedding made her an overnight style sensation.
Meanwhile, as the lifting of lockdown permits weddings to be staged again, brides who aim to be the leading lady of their own gala performance will find a wealth of inspiration in these pages, with expert tips on make-up for the big day, a guide to the nation’s best rejuvenating and restorative spas, and the dreamiest tulle and lace gowns with a contemporary twist in a romantic fashion story inspired by the runaway hit Bridgerton. And as the season’s most exclusive events, from Ascot to the Walberswick village fête (not to mention Prince George’s birthday party), begin once more to populate our calendars, our sought-after What to Wear edit brings you the pick of the most dazzling jewels, hats, dresses and bags for every occasion. It’s showtime!