Amanda Holden: 'My collection is a reflection of me and my style'

Mere steps away from London’s West End, the elegant Bardo St James’s provides the perfect glam, boudoir backdrop to our sneak preview of Amanda Holden’s latest theatrical extravaganza.

Burlesque dancers who would have the Moulin Rouge in a spin keep the ritzy revs up. Wielding their feather fans like magic wands, they whirl about, boosting the sense of mischief, devilment and decadence as we sink into super sofas or lounge about on chaises and are plied with delectable cocktails and Italian fare.

Just as fun-loving is the star of the evening — and of musicals such as Thoroughly Modern Millie— as she arrives in our midst to celebrate her eponymous seating collection.

Amanda Holden arrives at London's Bardo St James's.

Known for her vibrant personality and sparkling sense of fashion, Amanda says she was keen for all the pieces to reflect her own tastes. 

As friendly and effervescent in person as onscreen, she has a twinkle in her eye as roams the room — not least when she asks me conspiratorially to point out my favourite of all the sofas to her.

A burlesque theme added to the fun of the evening.

The actor and broadcaster, who lives in Surrey with her husband Chris Hughes and their daughters, Lexi and Hollie. 

They also have a residence in the Cotswolds. 

The family’s Surrey home, complete with sweeping staircase and high ceilings, is decorated with statement chandeliers — all testament to Amanda’s flair for interior design. She has spoken of how she “ripped it apart” after buying the property, transforming it “into Annabelle’s [the private members’ club in London’s Mayfair]. 

The Showstopper range, complete with the Disco Nap and Ooh La La scatter cushions.

And a nightclub vibe pulsates through her collaboration with furniture maker Dfs — there are even covetable “Disco Nap”-emblazoned cushions to curl up with. “I’ve absolutely loved working with Dfs to create a gorgeous collection that’s a true reflection of me and my style,” she says.

Amanda Holden and left, the Olivier range in her collection.

Chic and cheeky, the collection is divided into thhree — the Showstopper, Luvvie and Olivier ranges. Showstopper, all plush velvets, statement florals and shimmering metallics is “simply fabulous”, says the actor, radio and TV presenter: “I love using rich shades like teal, pink and gold in my own home, so this is perfect if, like me, you love a little decadence!” 

The Luvvie range.

Then we have the Luvvie range, inspired by art deco design. “I love its curves, the soft chenille fabric, and super sophisticated neutral shades, so very chic!” says Amanda.

The Olivier sofas, pouffes and footstools are “super-comfortable and luxurious”, adds Amanda, who points to their dark, sumptuous shimmering chenille and gold detail: “You can inject some extra glamour by adding the high-back accent chair in a gold and charcoal pattern – it’s simply divine.” 

Amanda Holden perched on a sofa in her Showstopper collection for Dfs.

If, like the Britain’s Got Talent judge, you adore entertaining, Showstopper could be just the ticket. Make a statement with rich jewel tones, dramatic silhouettes and vibrant prints, and deploy the scatter cushions for a playful effect. 

Drawing inspiration from musical theatre, always close to Amanda’s heart, this range maximises vibrant colours and textures finished with flashes of metallic, pops of pink, and large-scale foliage prints.

Key picks include a four-seater, three-seater and two-seater sofa, with either a scatter or standard back, patterned accent chairs and a fabulously fluffy pink pouffe footstool. 

The Luvvie range.

The Luvvie range marries art deco glamour with a contemporary townhouse aesthetic, for chic, sophisticated style.  

Named after the icon of stage and screen Laurence Olivier, the Olivier pieces put the spotlight on generous seating that oozes pure luxury. We’re talking plush cushions, shimmery chenille fabric, and edgy metallic accents.

A choice of three footstools includes a glass-top stool which doubles up as a stylish coffee table.

The Amanda Holden x Dfs collection is available exclusively online this month and in a wide range of the company’s stores in March. See Dfs.ie.

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