Where: Portman Square, London
Joanne Black Style: Amanda Wakeley gown, vintage black fur and bag, YSL shoes and diamonds by Damiani.

On Thursday you certainly didn’t have to be in the Big Apple to experience the perfect New York winter. In fact, as the theme for The Berkeley Square Ball 2009, you only had to go as far as Portman Square.

One of the highlights of the London social calendar, this night of Taittinger champagne, Nobu cocktails and dinner by Britain’s leading Italian chef Giorgio Locatelli – all in support of The Prince’s Trust – did not disappoint.

Thankfully, my table at dinner provided the perfect vantage point from which to soak up the style scene – and what a scene it was! Gwen Stefani arriving with her husband Gavin Rossdale took a rather alternative approach with a neon bra, see-through top, short tweed grey shorts and black opaque leggings – coupled with gladiator style statement heels and a black clutch. And David Haye brought a touch of boxer cool to proceedings wearing a relaxed black jeans and trainers outfit worn with a gold belt, black blazer and open white shirt.

But in the style stakes, the night belonged to Anna Friel. Arriving after a night treading the boards at London’s Theatre Royal, Anna looked stunning in a racy red number, which she wore with a red choker and beautiful brooch. A wonderful white fur, red manicure and delicate silver sandals just made her fitted dress all the more show-stopping! When she’s finished playing style icon Audrey Hepburn at the theatre she should think about becoming one herself!