Mathew Alexander

Magazine editors are a difficult bunch and it says much for Mathew Alexander's skill as hairdresser and make-up artist that he's kept a loyal following amongst these tricky customers. They follow his career via Michaeljohn, Umberto Giannini, Nyumba and now into his own chic boutique in a picturesque mews seconds from Bond Street. Mathew can swiftly assess what will suit you and he wins your trust because he's doing it for you, not his own ego. Under his guidance you can leave behind the safe but suburban hairstyle you've had for years and emerge looking chic and modern, not ridiculous. Similarly with make-up, he knows that less is more, that cosmetics should enhance not mask your own features. Consequently he does a lot of famous faces for the catwalk, the red carpet and photo-shoots. He's looked after Natasha Richardon, Tara Palmer-Tompkinson, Sharleen Spiteri and Cat Deeley, and not just women. Liam Neeson has felt the gently whisper of Mathew's powder puff. He's also very popular for weddings and parties where someone wants to look her best. You can book one-one-one make-up lessons for a comprehensive overhaul, creating a brand new polished look that can take years off your appearance. The new salon reflects the relationship he's forged with clients. It's intimate and lavish with opulent textures and rich colours. Antique gold walls and faux snakeskin contrast with hand-printed orchid wallpaper and a Gothic chandelier of antique French crystal. Mathew says (dramatically) that the interior was inspired by the opening scene of the movie Butterfield8. Isn't that the one where Laurence Harvey rips the dress off Liz Taylor's fabulous upmarket hooker character? I'm sure he doesn't mean that. 12 Lancashire Court, Mayfair, London W1, 020 7495 1122; www.mathewalexander.co.uk

Swanky Belgravia dining club Mosimann's has a cookery school in Battersea that's just launched its autumn programme from now until Christmas. It's open to all, not just members. Cookery courses are enormously popular, not just to learn new skills but to meet and network with like-minded people. They are also the perfect present for those tricky people who seem to have everything. The autumn schedule includes an in-depth look at fish and shellfish, the 30-minute dinner party, cocktails and canapés, and an introduction to the street food of Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam. Courses take place during the day or occasionally early evening when they are followed by dinner at the club. There are also two-hour evening classes to brush up on basic cookery skills. On Thursday 25th October there's a whole day's expedition to Bedgbebury Pinetum in Kent to go foraging for mushrooms and lunch is taken al fresco with your own mushroom risotto. Mosimann's The Academy, 5 William Blake House, The Lanterns, Bridge Lane, Battersea, London SW11, 020 7326 8330; www.mosimann.com