Where do you live and why?
Barons Court. A quiet area behind Charing Cross hospital; no rush, no fuss, no noise! Besides, Sainsbury’s is open until midnight and also an off license that sells alcohol 24/7 is a blessing!
Where is your favourite late night haunt in the area?
The Dove [19 Upper Mall, W6]. One of London’s oldest pubs, dating back to the 17th century, it’s very old fashioned and my favourite place to go for a late drink. Nobody recognises me there and I usually sit in a quiet corner with a close friend.
Have you had any great, random celebrity sightings in west London?
Last year I bumped into Stephen Gately in M&S. He was looking at the sushi and I went up to say hello… Just two weeks later he died. He was a really pleasant and chatty guy.
If you hadn’t been talent spotted when you were young what do you think you would be doing now?
I would still be a fashion expert and socialite! It’s what I’ve always wanted. And I’ve always fantasised about being a journalist and author so that’s happening too!
Have you ever had any fashion disasters?
Never! I go to great lengths to make sure I look perfect, whether dressed up and made up in a flamboyant outfit or simple and chic.
Who is the biggest diva celebrity that you’ve ever met?
Joan Collins. She’s the eternal diva and the ultimate glamour puss.
Who are your celebrity crushes?
Strangely I have none… I wonder why?
Are you more Portobello Road or King’s Road?
King’s Road. I love art and love popping in and out of the galleries, studios and attending private views.
Do you have a favourite shop in west London?
Westfield! What else? A glittering variety of brands under one roof and a short taxi ride away. What more could a fashionisto ask for?
Who are your fashion icons?
Iman: she combines timeless elegance with a touch of diva-like flamboyance; Maria Macdonald Bell – artist and sculptress. She’s the only mature woman I know who can pull off the Dolly girl look! Also, Amitabh Bachchan: the distinguished well-dressed mature male never goes out of style; Rekha, the veteran Indian actress who makes ageing gracefully look sexy and sensational; Marcel Nagajek, model and designer fragrance promoter and my good friend. He always looks chic and effortlessly elegant in whatever he wears. There’s a certain ’30s French Riviera air to his personality and looks.
What are your plans for the future?
Having my own TV show, which will put up-and-coming talent in fashion, art and entertainment in the spotlight; becoming an ambassador of peace and also a human rights activist; publishing my first book and buying my mum a big house!
