I might as well admit it now: I come from a family of staunch, conservative monarchists – ex-armed forces, Conservative Thatcherites. While I – and my brother – reject most of their political beliefs (which inspires some good, heated debates…
Gala night at the Alfonso XIII
A few nights ago I went to the (re)opening party of the Alfonso XIII hotel here in Seville. This venerable establishment, a landmark and icon of the city, the grande dame of Seville’s social scene, had received a major make-over.…
Expo 92, Take II: shiny surface v ugly underbelly
Exactly a month ago, Seville celebrated the 20th anniversary of the opening of Expo 92, the global event which brought the world to Seville, and Seville to the world, during six amazing months (20 April – 12 October 1992), changing…
Feria II: Suits you, sir (and you too, madam)
Supremely elegant: an amazona in a traditional suit for riding side-saddle, at the Feria de Abril in Sevilla. Yes, I know it finished nearly a week ago, but I spent the last week catching up on all the work I…
Feria fashion: back to black
This year, Feria fashion has some interesting trends. The first is black – this isn’t a colour I’ve seen much in previous years, but this year there were a number of black trajes de flamenca. Maybe they’re a commentary on…