Charles-Finch-Joanne-Black

Where: Automat
Joanne Black Style: Lanvin dress and ankle boots, Plein Sud fur, Alexander McQueen clutch, Stephen Webster earrings and a Damiani ring

You could be forgiven for thinking that the words glamour and adventure don’t often make it into the same sentence – let alone the same wardrobe. But, thanks to Charles Finch, whose new Chucs Dive & Mountain shop has just opened on Dover Street, we can all now look as stylish on the beach – or hiking through the mountains – as we do in the boardroom.

Finch’s brand may be new, but those close to him know it’s the result of a life-long dream for this film director, producer and CEO. It comes as no surprise then that stars from film, TV and fashion – including Emma Thompson, Bob Geldolf and designer Roland Mouret – came out to support his Jamaican-themed launch. With burgers and fries and Chuc’s cocktails to wash it all down, Automat provided the perfect setting to celebrate London’s newest seasonal holiday wear line.

Joanne-Black-Olivia-Cole

Joanne Black and Olivia Cole

When you’re the son of an Academy award-winning actor and the grandson of the man who invented the puffa jacket – before ascending Everest in 1922 – producing an exclusive adventure fashion line for the stars seems like a natural step. And I won’t be the first to say I’m so glad he has. I’ve already invested in a Giles Deacon print bikini – Giles designed the print especially for the brand – and a pair of high-waisted shorts, which Cate Blanchett collaborated on, and I can’t wait to hit the streets of LA to try them out.

If his inaugural spring/summer collection is anything to go by, glamourous adventurers are in for a treat. I’m already looking forward to the next collection, where I hear an updated version of his grandfather’s original jacket will be making a rather stylish entrance.