Honk! Honk! We nearly got run over by a 1908 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost as the procession of some of the most attractively designed cars set off around Salon Privé at West London’s Syon Park. Now very much part of the social calendar for fashionistas it’s recognised as the UK’s hottest prestigious Super Car Show & Concours d’Elégance.

Running over three days, we zoomed along to Boodles Ladies Day where the dress code was dress to impress. The weather was sunny and perfect making it ideal for showing off sumptuous summer outfits. Maybe it’s the economic situation taking its toll, but the ladies fashions this year looked switched down a gear in individuality with many opting for a more understated look.

Fashion Fabulous London co-author, Tracy Rose brought a piece of her fabulous elegance with a sculptural millinery black and peach hat with a matching dress. Amongst the most delightful outfits we spotted were Roksanda Ilincic with Louboutin heels and Matthew Williamson florals. Lots, however, still look to the high street favourites such as Coast and Karen Millen for these occasions. A few opted for vintage outfits paired especially attractive with vintage handbags.  Fine diamond rings and diamond with emerald necklaces were worn with elegance, whilst most millinery on show were small fascinators that matched the same colour as the outfit.

Salivating over Mclarens, Ferraris, Jaguars and Bugattis, the crowds sipped Pommery blue label Champagne that flowed throughout the day. The atmosphere was most refined and congenial. Lunch has improved compared to previous years and included an unlimited buffet of lobster, spicy chicken, rice salad, rocket and parmesan followed by rose scented meringue, strawberries and cream dessert – all quite delicious! This year, there seemed to be no problem in getting a decent table but that may have been because the numbers were a bit down on last year. A nice touch on the drinks this year from Pommery was the addition of the Rosé Apanage and in addition there was a choice of reds and  white wines to choose from.  And the afternoon teas moved up a gear in quality as well with more sandwiches, scones and cakes.

On menswear, there was less of the preppy look of previous years – with more in the way of classics from Alfred Dunhill, Burberry and Daks. Some of the flash and flamboyance of last year had given way to more street casual attire including jeans. Amongst the celebs we spotted were Team GB star Etienne Stott.

Around the concourse, Boodles had an exhibition area showing their latest jewellery whilst Audemars Piguet displayed an array of exquisite watches. For a wonderful day of cars and fashion, a visit to  Salon Privé is to be recommended.

For the most fashionable places to shop in London, see our latest book Fashion Fabulous London 2012 that reviews in detail the Top 200 fashion shops and looks at 132 venues to eat and drink in London. The book is available at Waterstones, Harrods, Selfridges, Joseph, Daunt, Foyles, Stanfords, Oliver Bonas, Dolly Dare, Present-London, Amazon and all major bookshops priced £12.99.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Fashion-Fabulous-London-Tracy-Rose/dp/0956116310