Joanne Black loves Paula Laschera's style

As a fan of Lanvin – especially at this time of year with their party dresses and winter holiday bags – I just couldn’t resist selecting Paula Laschera as my style icon for December. She’s the perfect ambassador for Lanvin and here she makes elegance and sophistication look effortless. I love the way she has combined autumn colours beautifully. The brown fox throw is stunning over one shoulder, the brown suede shoes give the outfit a funky edge and the statement clutch brings it all together nicely.

Find out more: www.lanvin.com

Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage

If you’ve ever tried to buy concealer under the bright lights of a department store, you’ll know that finding the right shade is no easy task. Thankfully, Laura Mercier has come up with the answer – a two-shade system that works with the varied tones in your skin to create a flawless look. Say goodbye to post-party bags under your eyes and hello to Laura Mercier’s Camouflage. Winter eyes have never looked so good!

Find out more: www.lauramercier.com

Elemis Body Sculpting Lipo-Refining Serum

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a woman with thighs and a bottom (you can actually see) is likely to find cellulite not far behind! That’s why when I find a product that actually makes bikini-wearing that little bit easier, I have to shout about it. Elemis’ sculpting serum – when used with its Body Sculpting Firming Cream – gets to work on those fatty deposits in no time. Whether or not you’re wowed by the science of marine and plant extracts and key ingredient Peru Liana, there’s no denying that after one month your legs will be fit for summer – all year round. Then all you’ll have to do is book a winter sun holiday to show them off!

Find out more: www.elemis.com/BodyCare

Georgina Goodman's Chelsea Boot

If it’s good enough for Claudia Schiffer on the school run, it’s good enough for us! Georgina Goodman’s boots are perfect for ladies with a curvy figure –the elasticated panel along the side means you down have to prise them on and off your legs. These boots look fab with a dress and opaque tights – not wide-legged trousers – and the 2-inch square heel is great for adding height without pain. You’ll certainly crave them after a festive month spent in towering party heels. Thank you Georgina!

Find out more: www.georginagoodman.com

Joanne Black with Mira Anafina of Damiani Jewelry Bond Street

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.

Joanne Black with David Haye

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!