Hello Friends! It's been a while, but we're back with some exciting news! We've got plenty of lovely new stock arriving daily, just in time to brighten up your spring wardrobe for those upcoming holidays. And to show our appreciation for your loyalty, we're offering a 10% discount on everything on our website until the end of April. Use WELCOME10 at the checkout. Don't miss out!
]]>
Hello Friends!
It's been a while, but we're back with some exciting news! We've got plenty of lovely new stock arriving daily, just in time to brighten up your spring wardrobe for those upcoming holidays. And to show our appreciation for your loyalty, we're offering a 10% discount on everything on our website until the end of April. Use WELCOME10 at the check out. Don't miss out!
Speaking of holidays, where are you off to? If you're planning a trip to Ibiza, Morocco, South Africa or Spain, be sure to check out our fabulous collection of kaftans. We've got something for everyone, from bright and vibrant colours to elegant pastels, exotic tropical botanical designs, safari themes, and geometric patterns.
Our kaftans are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're lounging by the pool or sipping a cocktail on the terrace, they'll keep you cool and looking elegant. Plus, they're so easy to wear - just slip one on after a shower or head to the beach with no fuss.
And if you're sharing a villa with friends, our lightweight dressing gowns are a must-have. They're made from beautiful fine cotton and come in a range of pretty designs. Perfect for maintaining your dignity while
But that's not all. We've also got a gorgeous collection of short pyjamas that can be worn in and out of bed. They're stylish, practical, and made from 100% cotton - perfect for those warm, balmy evenings. Choose from our safari theme, tropical floral, vibrant and bold, or crisp, fresh white designs. They come presented in a matching bag, making them a generous gift for your bestie or a well-deserved treat for yourself.
And if you're looking for a unique and practical gift for a newborn baby, our baby quilts and baby mats are a perfect choice. Made from 100% cotton, they wash beautifully and are suitable for use as a play mat, cot decoration, or even a throw for when they upgrade to their own bed.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your holidays and treat yourself to some of our fabulous new stock. Don't forget to use your 10% discount before the end of April.
We can't wait to hear from you!
]]>
By Victoria Chadwick
Day 1 Arriving on the Shabbat
Shabbat is the Jewish Sabbath, held from sunset on Friday evening to sunset on Saturday evening. We arrived in Jerusalem in a taxi just as the sun went down.
All around were Orthodox Jews in their traditional regalia, long gowns and magnificent beards, tall hats, parading nonchalantly on the streets.
Some of the Jewish boys are quite rowdy on the Shabbat and our taxi was stopped briefly by a group of them!
Once we had checked into our hotel it was time to explore the city in the dark, most of the shops and restaurants being closed by this point.
Once you reach the Old City and go down a few of the narrow cobbled passageways, you are truly in the Middle East!
In fact it didn’t feel like the Shabbat in this part of Jerusalem as the souvenir and takeaway outlets were still open and thriving.
All bustle and exotic smells, market stalls glistening with fruit and colourful scarves, and trinkets.
‘Shalom, madam! Come in my shop!’
What an introduction!
Day 2 To Bethlehem
We had a tour of the Old City in the daylight, where we witnessed all the men and boys praying at the Western Wall, an extraordinary and moving sight.
We followed the path of the Via Dolorosa, which is the Stations of the Cross and an important journey for Christian pilgrims re-enacting the journey of Jesus to the cross.
We got to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see an ancient tomb hewn out of the bare rock on which the church itself is built, a moving and unnerving sight.
The church itself is beautiful and boasts some amazing Byzantine-era mosaics.
On to Bethlehem and pushing through rapturous crowds (me and my partner nearly lost each other among the pilgrims!), to visit the Church of the Nativity, which is said to be the sight of the place of Jesus’s birth.
A word of advice: to truly enjoy Bethlehem, don’t go on Christmas Eve, unless you are a devoted pilgrim, it was all quite overwhelming having to push through the eager crowds!
Day 3 Masada and Dead Sea
Another spectacular day taking a coach tour out to the Dead Sea Desert where we visited the astonishing site of the mountain-top fortress of Masada. Ride on a cable-car or take the tougher route up the mountain by foot…we took the cable car that time!
On to the nature reserve on Ein Gedi where we had our photo taken in front of the waterfall of David’s Stream, and saw Ibex, a once endangered wild goat which has been brought back from near-extinction.
We finished our journey by stopping at Kalia Beach on the Dead Sea, wallowed in the Dead Sea mud!
My partner had to have his picture taken outside The Lowest Bar in the World, by virtue of the Dead Sea being the lowest place on earth!
The salt content of the Dead Sea means no life except one tiny microbe can survive in the water, and swimmers are able to float on their backs without sinking.
The Garden Tomb
Our final morning was spent with a stop at the Garden Tomb, where there is an ancient rock-hewn crevice tomb which believers claim to be the site of Jesus’s burial.
A beautiful, tranquil place to end our whistle-stop journey through the Holy Land.
I shall be dreaming of more adventures in Israel, as I return to daily life in England.
]]>
How about the ‘wearable’ blanket?
That’s a new one for me.
What type of sleepwear do you prefer, do you like lounging in a hooded blanket, or do you like to go for the traditional look?
The elegance and style of a two-piece pyjama set lends a certain grace to your evenings, sitting cosily by the fire.
Pyjamas come in so many different styles and patterns of colour!
To get into the mood, try a set featuring swirling leafy designs, with bright, warm, autumnal shades, reminiscent of trees turning their colour.
Yellow, orange and deep red are a must, they catch the eye and make you feel those cosy autumnal vibes.
I like patterns with eclectic, swirling designs, depicting foliage and greenery.
Wearing your pyjamas, you can immerse yourself in the sensation of falling leaves and scattering fruit and seeds.
Autumn is the season of harvest as well as of decay and of nature falling into sleep.
Embrace this fruitfulness in your nightwear!
With those cold nights approaching, make sure you accessorise with a flowing dressing gown (preferably velvet!), and finish it off with some nice slippers.
With us spending more time indoors in the autumn months, we all find ourselves seeking out a bit of luxury, some quiet pampering when we can take time just for ourselves.
How about treating yourself to some bath time indulgence, for when you can spend time relaxing with a glass of wine, and pamper your skin?
For me, I love a sensory bubble bath, flavoured with calming essential oils like lavender.
To care for your skin now the weather has turned and we face those bracing autumn days, try a bedtime balm, to help you slip into gentle dreams.
Of course, the best fabric for sleeping in is cotton!
At Rowan Charles, we specialise in organic cotton pyjamas, made in India and featuring amazing designs and patterns inspired by the sub-continent.
To complete your cosy autumn experience, we are offering beautiful pyjama gift boxes, including pillow mist, body cream or bath oil scented with Lavender to enhance sleep!
Take a look at our shop now to see our collection, for autumn-inspired pampering.
]]>
Or maybe you’re more the ‘take it as it comes’ type of holidaymaker, booking last minute and going with the flow, trying out a destination you’ve never even heard of so as to be surprised and astounded by all the hidden moments you never thought you’d encounter?
If you’re like me, you’re sort of half and half. I like to plan (flights, hotels, the unmissable tourist attractions), so I know everything is organised.
But I also like the element of surprise in a holiday.
Having an entire afternoon free of plans so you can saunter and explore at your pace.
Where’s your ideal destination?
You might fancy exotic climes, spectacular cuisine, trying out the pleasures of a completely different culture. India, China, Sri Lanka.
Will you be jetting off on an African safari? Cruising the Mediterranean?
Or are you a home bird?
Do you prefer sauntering down a sleepy country lane, ambling along a sedate English seaside front…or hiking in Welsh mountains??
For me this year, it’s Guernsey for the summer…and then almost straight after, Boston, Massachusetts! I do feel lucky.
What ever you do, don’t forget to pack the appropriate clothing.
For those sultry nights in Singapore, as ever, it’s best to pack soft, breathable cotton pyjamas, and to suit the occasion, choose vibrant jungle prints!
For those afternoons relaxing by the pool, don’t forget to accessorise with a floaty kaftan!
Seek out your perfect holiday nightwear here in Rowan Charles’s online shop:
Bon Voyage!
]]>
I feel so sad and lonely without her. She’s here physically but has vascular dementia and is in a care home. She hates it and is always trying to escape,
She can be rude to the staff and says she wants to die.
I waken up in the dead of night and picture my poor confused mum , being in a place she doesn’t know, wearing clothes that very often aren’t hers, being looked after by people she doesn’t recognise.
She is frail and scruffy. She used to be tall and smart , gregarious and loved her husband and her life. He was her second husband and they remained deeply in love till she got dementia and didn’t recognise him!
I want to talk to her and tell her of my pleasures and my worries, to feel her arms around me and smell her Estée Lauder perfume. I want her to know that I come and see her and buy her chocolates and flowers. She says I’ve abandoned her and I never go to see her.🙈🙈
I want to share the joys of her grandchildren and great grandchildren and I want her to know that her eldest son is coming over from New Zealand to see her.
She doesn’t understand. It is so cruel .
Happy Mother’s Day!
From the moment you arrive till the moment you leave it is wonderful.
Always quite isolated ,so a long and dusty journey in a Land Rover and then the lodge appears and what a fabulous site, standing outside waiting for you is a chap with a tray holding lovely cool cotton flannels and best of all a chilled cocktail.
A greeting and a chat and then to your room. Keep the windows closed because of Monkeys 🐒🐒🐒🐒
Don’t go out at night on your own....Cheetahs.🐆🐆🐆
Supper on the veranda with a few other guests usually including your guide for the next day. A delicious cocktail followed by a yummy supper, served by delightfully informative and friendly staff.
Off to bed early as the first treat starts very early in the morning. Tea delivered to your room at about 5 o’clock. Dress quickly in warm clothes and off you go.
The anticipation means adrenaline is flowing.
Into the safari vehicle ,the guide provides a blanket and off you motor into the dark early morning.
The big five are the key. Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Zebra, Elephant and Buffalo. We also saw, Giraffes, Hippos, Wildebeest and Hyena, not to mention the varied bird life and multiple gazelles.
It is difficult to comprehend the size and majesty of the elephant that you are almost able to touch. Lions amble round the jeep which is very nerve wracking as again they are terrifyingly close. I shrunk into the jeep moving away from the side convinced I was going to be mauled any minute. I wasn’t 😂😂😂
The early start means you are back at the lodge for breakfast by about 7.30.
At the front door to greet you is a lovely smiley face bearing a tray of hot chocolate. It’s been quite chilly.
The day is then free to sunbathe ,swim, read and generally relax.
Then there is the late afternoon drive. Same routine but different vibe. The guide knows which animal will be where. If your lucky enough you could see a kill. Actually I was rather pleased not to as I always find it disturbing even though I know all animals have to survive. 🙈🙈🙈🙈
The special treat at the end of the afternoon is to drive to a particular spot to experience the most wonderful sunset you can possibly imagine whilst your guide provides a divine gin and tonic ,complete with ice and lemon and a few snacks. I felt as though I was taking part in Out of Africa. Eat your heart out Meryl Streep!!! Unfortunately Robert Redford was not part of the deal.
Back to the lodge and to the room for a bath before supper.
Omg, heaven , the bath has been run and scattered with rose petals and there are scented candles dotted round the room.
What a wonderful day, wonderful people, it is surreal!
I certainly did not want to leave and would hope to have a repeat trip one of these days.
]]>But what do you know about the animals who stalk through the mysterious jungle depicted on your favourite item of sleepwear?
Have a read....enjoy!
]]>
Many of us love animal prints, not least on our cotton pyjamas…
But what do you know about the animals who stalk through the mysterious jungle depicted on your favourite item of sleepwear?
Yes! this year, 2022, is the Year of the Tiger.
So if you’re lucky enough to have a birthday which fell in say, 2010, 1998, 1986, this is your year!
According to the Chinese Zodiac, as a Tiger you are likely to be quick-witted, resourceful, versatile, and kind.
If like me, you were born in the year of the Rabbit, you will be quiet, elegant, kind, and responsible…Awwww!
As for my sister who was born the following year, she is said to be confident, intelligent, enthusiastic….all the traits of a Dragon! Roooaaarr!
How about my partner? …well, what do you know, he’s a Tiger!
Why do you think so many cultures place good fortune on being born under the sign of a particular animal?
Well there’s no arguing with a real tiger, for a start, and majestic animals have often been revered by ancient cultures as possessing special powers and qualities. Qualities we frail humans wish we were endowed with.
So it’s not surprising that beautiful creatures like horses, tigers, dragons, feature in the astrological calendars.
But what about a rabbit, say?
Obviously a rabbit is a pretty, quiet creature and as they live together in warrens, they must be admired for their cooperative abilities, living in crowded spaces …although not all rabbits are softies, remember Watership Down??…
Still waters run deep…
How about using a Chinese astrology site to assess your partner’s compatibility (just for fun!)
Apparently the Rabbit may grow a little tired of the Tiger’s exuberance from time to time haha!
As for my parents, they were both born in the year of a certain large, farmyard-dwelling, snuffly creature with trotters! I think they’re okay together ;)
Why not gift your friends and relatives with a set of animal print pyjamas, depicting their Chinese birth animal?
sometime? https://www.rowancharles.co.uk/collections/pyjamas/products/ella-cotton-pyjamas
They may feel endowed with powers unique only to them…
Happy dreaming!
Victoria Chadwick
]]>
Dreaming..
Of summer nights
In satin and silk
With G and T,
And a splash of lemon
To compliment your cotton prints!
Dreaming
Of a warm breeze
Which blows in from the Med,
Languishing evenings by the pool,
And sweet cinnamon-tasting days…
Dreaming, again…
Of gentler days in England,
When the first call of autumn
Makes you want to snuggle
Into your dressing gown
Your tropical holiday still stitched all over your PJs!
And, again,
Dreaming.
Of fuzzy nights, drawing near to midnight
Cuddling by the fire
Sipping mulled wine
Waiting for the bells of New Year
Eating those last mince pies…
Dreaming,
Of new things to come.
If you would like to browse some dreamy pyjamas to carry on your dreams in, please take a look at our collection of PJs. Also we have really gorgeous katfans that you can take on your travels with you! Take a look at those here.
]]>
Well, how about getting into the spirit of India in a new way….try a Bollywood movie!
]]>Well, how about getting into the spirit of India in a new way….try a Bollywood movie!
I have failed to appreciate until now, the diversity of the Bollywood film sector.
Unfortunately, Bollywood movies have been stereotyped as cheesy and ‘fluffy’, as largely colourful escapism, but I’m finding out there’s far more to these films.
Did you know that Bollywood movies account for only a portion of the entire Indian film industry output?
Yes, ‘Bollywood’, (the movie-making industry begun in Bombay, now Mumbai, in the 1930s), is actually Hindi-language films. There are other Indian film sectors, grouped according to the language spoken, including Tollywood and Kollywood!
Mumbai has long been the heartland of India’s arts and culture industries, as well as a centre for wealth and multiculturalism.
It’s no surprise Mumbai became the major outlet for films, and today Bollywood films sell 1 billion tickets at the box office every year!
Wow…
Now, as I’ve said, when I think of Bollywood movies, I have to say I have been hoodwinked by stereotyping!
I think of ‘Bollywood’ as all flashy dance numbers, and fairy-tale boy-meets-girl storylines.
I am mistaken, and I do apologise for my ignorance :)
While Bollywood movies have long featured rousing set pieces and fabulous costumes, with a fairy-tale happy ending, there’s much more diversity going on.
Available on Netflix, is a movie called Dangal, which is a rousing drama based on a true story. It’s about an ex-wrestler who longs to have a son who will follow his dad’s goal of winning championship gold.
Well, there’s a surprise in store for this father.
His two daughters turn out to have their dad’s gift for wrestling too, and the movie follows their gender-defying journey for glory!
I must try and find this film!
On top of it’s massive box office takings, Bollywood produces 1000 films each year, double the output of Hollywood, according to an article I read on trafalgar.co!
So there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Bollywood movies feature interesting and quirky protagonists, such as a traditional Indian mum who discovers a world of possibilities through learning English and visiting New York in English Vinglish (2012).
If you're looking for emotional drama and a bit of a tear-jerker, try Kal Ho Naa Ho, a very successful romantic comedy-drama from 2003 starring one of Bollywood’s top leading male actors, Shah Rukh Khan.
It explores several themes, such as the depiction of non-resident Indians, inter-caste marriage, terminal illness, and homosexuality.
I hope this has whetted your appetite for a Bollywood-themed film night.
I’m off to seek out Dangal and spend a relaxing evening in my PJ’s.
By Guest Blogger: Victoria Chadwick
If you'd like to check out the pyjamas we have, perfect for snuggle up times to watch a good film, take a look at the collection here.
]]>
Dior said “If you’re fair and sweet don’t wear it as he felt animal print showed power and sexual experience. Society has deemed animal print to have powerful. and sexy connotations. Who could forget Rod Stewart at his peak wearing animal print, very tight trousers singing “Do you think I’m sexy”?
It is thought that initially animal print is subconsciously a bit scary and that stimulates arousal and thus has to do with sexual attraction.
Maybe that is why we choose to wear animal print pyjamas, and underwear.
Some may think wearing actual animals on our pyjamas rather child like.
Lots of children’s pjs have animals on but they tend to be a little more cutie than the adult version.
My favourite animal by far is the elephant. Hence the red cotton pjs with a safari scene and the blue and white cotton pjs printed with elephants, little and large.
Elephants are fascinating.The largest land mammal and live in Africa and India
Their tusks are actually teeth, they have really thick skin, their trunks have 150000 muscle units and they eat up to 150kgs of food a day.
The gestation period is almost 2 years! Can you imagine? I’m so pleased I’m not an elephant .
I suppose at the end of the day, all animals are fascinating and we show our love of animals by including them in our wardrobe, on our pyjamas on our handbags, hats and shoes. It seems to be a largely female choice. Interesting!
If you feel inspired to walk on the wild side with safari pyjamas then look no further than our Rowan Charles collection. Much to my delight, it's been hignly recommended across the world.
]]>Rowan Charles’ pyjamas are inspired by the splendour of Indian art and design, which has its roots in thousands of years’ tradition.
]]>Rowan Charles’ pyjamas are inspired by the splendour of Indian art and design, which has its roots in thousands of years’ tradition.
I was reading about Indian decor on the website Culture Trip, and wanted to share some of the inspiration I found:
Madhubani paintings are 2,500 years old as an art tradition, and began as murals on walls and floors, celebrating special occasions. Indian-inspired paintings can brighten the drabbest of corners, if you’re looking to spruce up your surroundings!
Dhokra art is 4000 years old, originating in West Bengal. It’s a lost wax technique of casting, and these days you can compliment your living area with a dhokra lamp, adding a tribal frisson to your room.
Henna is used famously in mehendi, traditional temporary body tattoos. This can be used on your walls as mural art, I’m informed.
For those of you who are familiar with the table cloths and other decorative but practical items we sell at Rowan Charles, you will be interested to know that Saris, those most versatile of traditional Indian garments, can be adapted as fine drapes or curtains to inject colour into the room!
If you're thinking about a tablecloth for your home, be inspired by block-printed designs, another age-old dying method still alive and well in India.
As well as women’s sleepwear and cosy dressing gowns, we also sell beautiful childrens’ bedspreads at Rowan Charles.
Indian-inspired bed covers are rich and diverse, with hand-stitched and patchwork designs. They are also multi-functional, and can be used as throws for the sofa or as rugs!
As for ladies’ sleepwear, the pyjama suit originated in India and you’ll find our designs all take inspiration from the rich flavours of Indian culture, with technicolour paisley patterns and animal motifs abounding.
If you're thinking of blending into your surroundings, and Indian decor has fired your imagination, why not start by choosing your favorite sleepwear design to compliment your home decor?
Paisley patterns, anyone?
Or a charming tropical print?
Namaste
]]>
I know this isn’t in bed but just look at Rihanna out on the town in silky PJ pants and matching robe. Not something I plan to copy!!
Do you watch The Big Bang Theory? I love that programme it’s sooo funny.
Penny that features in that is famous for her pyjamas. She loves pink and always looks really sexy. Dr Sheldon Cooper less so. He is hilarious though. Worth watching.
I couldn’t actually find anything about Boris bedtime habits, everyone seems to concentrate on his hair. Can’t imagine why ;)
Other celebrities were more revealing.
Sandra Bullock apparently wears cheetah print
Dolly Parton wears make up and takes her wig to bed in case she has to rush out for an emergency. She doesn’t want to look less Dollyish if spotted by the Papparazi!
Madonna admits to wearing stilettos in bed. Not quite sure I believe that.
Victoria Beckham as well as wearing her famous pout wears gloves and socks to bed filled with moisturising cream.🧤🧦🧤🧦. Lucky David!
Who doesn’t remember Bridget Jones listening to All by Myself by Celine Dion wearing bright red pjs with penguins on?
Marilyn Monroe’s, a little more daring, and certainly not a good advert for beautiful cotton pyjamas for women, famously said,
"The only thing to wear in bed is Chanel No 5!"
Look where that got her, poor thing , she didn’t have a very happy and meaningful life. Not that I’m suggesting wearing pjs gives you a happy and meaningful life!
Till next time, have fun, stay safe. And if you'd like to have your own celebrity bedtime look do take a browse at our stunning collection of pyjamas and nightshirts.
Namaste
Through a lovely horticultural route I was contacted by a lovely lady who appears on Instagram as Garden Obsessions. She had seen another horticulturalist Rosie Posie Irving opening a parcel containing one of my beautiful Frida Kahlo dressing gowns.
She messaged me so excited, please would I send her a Frida dressing gown and also some gorgeous botanical design pyjamas.
I don’t know who was more excited her or me . She lives in the USA and is called Angie. Wow! Rowan Charles has gone international!
We had a few messages back and forth and a chat on the phone, she’s delightful.
We conclude the transaction, she messaged me
I then got a message to say she had received the package and hadn’t yet opened it as she wanted to make a video of the unveiling!!!!
Next thing I received a lovely video of her undoing her parcel with great excitement and waxing Lyrical about Rowan Charles and Miss Lindsey (that’s me!).
That’s not all....
I was the sent a link to the YouTube video she had put on!
So check it out Rowan Charles and me, Lindsey Cooper, mentioned by Garden Obsessions on You Tube. I’m thrilled.
Her and her partner, Ambrose, have the most wonderful garden and are very appropriately called Garden Obsessions, they are certainly Garden Obsessed.
That is the positive side of Social Media, you meet some lovely people along the way.
If you'd like to view more of the colourful cotton Dressing Gowns that we have available at Rowan Charles - click here, including this now YouTube famous
Namaste
And you know, this cute thing got me thinking about...
]]>I saw this lovely video recently, about a vet who rescues baby elephants and - I kid you not - puts them to bed at night in makeshift pyjamas to comfort them!
It’s a really cute story!
And you know, this cute thing got me thinking about the elephants featured in culture and design generally, how these majestic animals show up in all sorts of places...
Like the elephants featured in the patterns of Rowan Charles’ pyjama designs, inspired by the rich culture of India.
Elephants have been revered for centuries by the people of India.
An amazing article I read from National Geographic recently, revealed the stories behind the ‘painted elephants’ of Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Once a year, the Elephant Festival attracts visitors far and wide to celebrate these magnificent animals, and the elephants are dressed in glorious colours, paint, bangles and drapes.
What a sight that must be.
This festival reflects the way elephants have paradoxically been worshipped - and also used as animal ‘slaves’ by man. Like the horse or the ox in other cultures, these creatures carry a totem-like status in the culture of India.
They are gods, represented by the elephant-headed deity, Ganesh, but also traditional ‘servants’ of humans.
A PBS article I found lists all the qualities of the elephant as a sacred animal to Hindus: Ganesh’s big head symbolises wisdom, his big ears endow him with the patience to listen.
He has a big belly to digest the best and worst of life. He rides on a tiny mouse, symbolising quick thinking and decisiveness.
All qualities we as humans might aspire to!
So special is the place of elephants in Indian culture that Indian elephant populations are known to be surviving better than that of other Asian elephants.
Outside India, too, elephants are honoured.
Buddhists believe white elephants carry special significance, whilst in Thailand a white elephant is the king’s property. In military manoeuvres, they were also fearsome war machines traditionally!
When you wear your cotton pyjamas, resplendent with prancing elephants, you’re not just wearing a pretty garment. You are sporting a thousand or more years’ worth of symbolism.
In Indian culture, a beautiful woman is said to walk with an elephant’s gait, so I hear!
When you put on your pyjamas tonight, you may even be blessed with dreams of graceful pachyderms.
Be proud of your elephant pattern pyjamas.
Who’d have thought a simple set of women's sleepwear would carry such symbolism?
Those aren’t ‘just elephants’ on your pyjamas...
We love this blog from Victoria Chadwick! Thank you so much for this insight. It gives us more excuses to adore the beautiful elephants on our Rowan Charles Pyjamas!
]]>
But why not? It is mere convention to change out of our sleep attire and into ‘day clothes’, and since when has cutting edge fashion followed convention? But Pyjamas as daywear is not such a radical idea. The pāy-jāma (Hindi word for leg-garment) is known to have been worn in West and South Asia since the 13th century. The British adopted pyjamas from the Indian subcontinent, where they are still worn as unisex daywear.
Pyjamas are comfy! Possibly the comfiest outfit of all time! When one considers the restrictive clothing that people in the West, particularly women, have borne in past centuries, is it any wonder that the pāy-jāma was embraced by the Raj Brits who adapted the style for men’s sleepwear.
Pyjamas were not for women though. Trousers were off-limits for women for most of Western history and even when pyjamas became popular at the cusp of the 19th and 20th centuries, they were only for men. But the times they were a-changing.
Pyjamas were about to revolutionise life for women. In the 1920s, women started to wear pyjamas for lounging at home, and for entertaining. The trend ventured outside on vacation and women wore beach pyjamas.
Even though trousers were still frowned upon for women in other scenarios, it wasn’t long before beach pyjamas evolved into stylish wide-legged pants for all occasions and women were gradually freed from the cultural constraints of skirts and dresses.
Finally, it was OK for Western women to wear trousers of all styles. Pyjamas reverted to loose pants and jacket sets specifically for wearing to bed.
It is our bed pyjamas we are guiltily wearing during the days of lockdown. Not everybody feels the guilt. Some people visit the supermarket in pyjamas without shame. They are judged for it and some supermarkets have banned people in pyjamas. It isn’t really socially acceptable.
Yet, why not wear pyjamas to the supermarket? If they are smart and fresh, how are they different from other garments?
Things might be about to change. Priya Elan in a men’s fashion piece for The Guardian on 26 Feb 2021 observes that
…loungewear – that’s pyjamas – has been going up in the world. No less than Mark Ronson and Antoni Porowski from Queer Eye have worn them out in public. When red carpets were still a thing, we saw lots of pyjama-outfit hybrids, from Billie Eilish in a grown-up romper suit at the Grammys (actually custom-made Gucci) to actors LaKeith Stanfield and Mahershala Ali wearing “robe suits” (which look like something Sean Connery’s James Bond might have worn when he was, you know, chilling).
However, he also adds
no matter how smart it looks, I would be hesitant to leave the house dressed like this: it’s too close to one of those anxiety dreams, the ones where you accidentally walk into the road wearing your jim-jams.
Still. I love pyjamas and I propose a daytime pyjama revolution. Comfort as the top priority. And pyjamas are the perfect canvas for beautiful prints and designs that shouldn’t be hidden away in bed at night.
Jim Jams are where it’s at.
by Stef Portersmith 04/03/21
References:
Origins of Pajamas | Love to Know | Beauty and Style
Your new two-piece? A pair of retro classy pyjamas | Men's fashion | The Guardian
We love this blog by Steph Portersmith from Well Arty. If you would like to join the 'Pyjama Revolution' and need some fabulous pyjamas to do it in, you are invited to browse our range at Rowan Charles. They give you comfort and class! I dare say you might get away with going to the supermarket in them?! Let us know what you think. ;)
]]>Cotton pyjamas for women are the best, coupled with dietary advice. For example, don’t eat processed sugar, don’t eat spicy food, don’t drink caffeine etc
Nightwear for women needs to be chosen with care. Silk is beautiful because it's natural, avoid polyester and man made fabrics, you cannot beat a fine cotton pyjamas set, or nightdress or nightshirt.
Cotton is light and breathable and should help to ward off that unpleasant and demoralising sweating. Cotton is hypoallergenic whereas synthetic fibres are more likely to irritate your skin. Cotton pyjamas are natural, cotton breathes and allows for better air circulation and can help to remove and absorb body moisture thus keeping the body cool and dry. In cooler temperatures it can actually help to provide insulation.
Apart from the health benefits, some cotton pyjamas are so chic and stylish that they make you feel good just putting them on.
Whilst travelling in India I was astonished at the pyjamas I saw with vibrant colours and exotic and sometimes weird designs.
If you imagine the journey that these pyjamas have had to get to you from Jaipur it makes it quite an adventure just going to bed!
The women’s sleepwear that I have made in Jaipur is also made extra special by being presented in a lovely matching envelope style bag. They make wonderful gifts, unique and luxurious. If you'd like to see some stunning cotton pyjamas for women that not only help you sleep better when you are going through menopause but also make you feel good, than pop over to our collection of pyjamas for women.
Whilst in Delhi walking back to our hotel we heard loud banging and chanting.
Approaching us was The Grooms procession!
In this blog I'd like to tell you all about Indian Weddings. They are Absolutely Amazing, Spectacular Awesome!
Whilst in Delhi walking back to our hotel we heard loud banging and chanting.
Approaching us was The Grooms procession! The groom rides to the ceremony usually on an elaborately decorated white horse or in an ornate carriage pulled by horses, whilst his friends and family dance round him to the very loud beat of several drums . Oh my goodness it was so exciting.
There were trumpets blowing, drums banging , people laughing and dancing .
The groom looked absolutely amazing. A beautiful turban type headdress bedecked with jewels and a gold and red brocade jacket. Wow!
Indian weddings last for days and hundreds of people are invited, no wonder the grooms family save all their lives for this huge event.
The fascinating ceremony involving the bride is the Mendhi.
I have had the honour of being invited to a Mendhi.
The bride and her friends and family have intricate henna patterns drawn on their hands and feet. It is a very specialised art so special people are appointed to do this. There is usually traditional Indian music played. I didn’t even recognise some of the musical instruments that the men were playing, only a sitar.
In the evening the families get together and a delicious feast is served.
I love to have henna decoration on my hands and feet and think it’s a shame that it’s not widely accepted in European circles. I always have it done when I go abroad if I get the opportunity.
India celebrates about 10 million weddings per year so the wedding industry is massive . The majority of Indians have their marriages planned by their parents and some are still arranged by their parents. Thank goodness that isn’t the norm here or I would be married to Prince Charles if my Mum had had her way!
If you would like to look at some stunning pyjamas made in India and maybe for a bridal wedding party, visit our nightwear page
]]>
Cardamom
These peculiar looking ,little wrinkled shells have a pretty green pod and that is what we use, they gave a very distinctive and memorable smell.
They can aid digestion and help to relieve bloating. I had these like a mint after dinner whilst in India.
I like to chop some very finely and put in cream with icing sugar to go with a pudding. Yummy. It really adds an exotic element.
Cinnamon
I think this is a bit like Marmite, you either love or hate it.
This is a bark that is ground into a powder. It can help to manage type 2 diabetes by regulating blood glucose levels in the body.
I like to use the bark in a wreath at Christmas as they look pretty and smell very Christmassy
Cumin
One of my favourites and I always put some in soups and casseroles.
It can help to boost your immune system and your metabolism.
I must say I haven’t had a cold all winter, touch wood ,or should I say eat Cumin.
Turmeric
This is the bright orange spice and difficult to get out of clothes if you spill any.
Some believe that it kills cancer cells. My husband diagnosed with cancer takes it daily with black pepper and olive oil and is at the moment well and the cancer is receding. He has of course also had all the orthodox treatment so who knows?
Ginger.
Alleviates arthritis and morning sickness for pregnant ladies.
I love ginger chocolates and often have it in hot water if I’m feeling under the weather.
Cloves
Anti bacterial and anti inflammatory.
I recall it used to be recommended for toothache.
I love the scent in candles and perfumes
Saffron
The most expensive and hardly surprising when you know the arduous and lengthy process it undergoes before being usable.
Saffron contains Crocin which is said to inhibit cancer cells and can promote the immune cells that ward off cancerous cells
It is also yummy in Spanish food and cakes
I have eaten street food, restaurant food and really high end deliciousness at Atul Kuchers fabulous restaurant called Benares. I love it all.
The colours, the clever use of spices,garlic,ginger,fresh coriander,chilli.
I am not a massive fan of very hot chilli but I love spicy.
My introduction to Indian food was as a child, living in Kenya.
We lived about 3 hours away from the nearest shop so it was a great adventure to go and do out monthly shop. It was an exciting family outing.
The shop was owned by an Indian family, and because they knew we had travelled such a long way, they always prepared a huge feast for us. Special for the little kids ie me ,was a very mildly spiced baked bean and pea dish which I scooped up with delicious chapatis dripping with ghee. The adults were treated to much spicier and varied dishes ,always accompanied by chilled Tusker Beer.
I can to this day remember the smells , the yummy food and the fun we had sitting round a large table with the Shah family. We used to play a board game called East African safari. Never seen that game anywhere else.
We had a cook at our house in Kisumu and he used to make some strange sort of Anglicised curry. Very mild ,usually chicken, which he had probably killed that day , and there were lots of little dishes that accompanied it. Chopped hard boiled egg,raisins, desiccated coconut and finely chopped onion. Many years later I went back to Kenya and went to a restaurant on the beach near Mombasa and the same sort of dish appeared. Very nostalgic.
When I went to university in Manchester ,an area there known as Fallowfield was nicknamed The Curry Strip. This area still exists and is a bustling ,cosmopolitan area, with loads and loads of Indian restaurants.
As a student it was a favourite haunt as it was so inexpensive, as an adult it was a favourite haunt just because it was soooo delicious. My favourite was a mild chicken curry with chapatis accompanied by lime pickle.
I don’t think my grandparents had ever heard of chapatis and certainly never ate rice or anything with garlic in.
I am fortunate to have lived abroad , travelled widely and thoroughly enjoyed all types of Indian treats all my life. I have some very close friends who adore Biryani and that for them is a great celebratory ,festive dish that certainly brings to the fore an aromatic host of spices. It is actually a South Asian dish in which lamb,beef,chicken,seafood or a mixture of vegetables are layered with rice. It is a time consuming dish and really you feel very honoured to partake of the family’s favourite.
India is of course a huge continent and the style of cooking and use of spices varies from area to area. I have really enjoyed any of the food I have had be it Mumbai, Kerala, Shimla, Birmingham,Manchester, London or a Lytham.
Namaste
When I look at the gorgeous pyjamas in Lindsey Cooper’s Rowan Charles’ collection, I’m transported, in a time - travelling frenzy, to the 1920s and 1930s. The ‘Bright Young Things’ of Evelyn Waugh’s novel, the decadence and romance of the F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Great Gatsby, and the moody and atmospheric themes of novels like Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier are brought to mind. These stories, all set in the early part of the 20th Century, have vastly different plots but are all set in an era where clothes were for languishing in, fabrics were rich and luxurious in style, and ladies were elegant and feminine.
‘Pyjamas became the new lounge wear of the 1920s, no longer limited to actually sleeping in. In the 1920s and 1930s, these garments ... became not only acceptable, but a chic, stylish item for women to wear to soirees in the homes of their bohemian friends.’ (from gjeometry.com)
As a writer and actor I believe that clothes are so important when shaping a character. What a person wears reflects their personality and affects the way they walk, sit, stand and behave. When I’m writing a story I always have a picture in my mind of what each person looks like and what sort of style they have. Put a female character in satin pyjamas with a matching dressing gown and they become elegant, feminine, maybe a little self indulgent and chilled, perhaps waiting for some handsome Gatsby-esque gentleman caller to arrive.
So what I’m really trying to tell you is that wearing beautiful pyjamas will most certainly change the way you feel. No sooner do you slip into them but you will be laying back on your sofa on a Sunday morning, with a relaxing coffee, feeling like a film star. You’ll be languishing on your chaise longue (ok- maybe just in your head) through the afternoon, imagining you’re in a Noel Coward play, feeling just a little bit decadent and planning an early cocktail. You’ll be wandering from room to room in your satin loungewear as the sun goes down, with maybe a G&T in your hand (chin! chin!). All in all, you’ll be feeling just a little bit glamorous, which is very important in these times where no one is dressing up because there’s nowhere to go.
In short, we could all do with pampering ourselves with gorgeous loungewear, for a little dose of glamour. We all deserve to feel a little bit awesome sometimes, and when we do, well, it’s ‘the cat’s pyjamas’.
Linda Hampton
Linda Hampton is an actor and writer based in the North West of England. She is the published author of ‘Wish You Were Here Seaside Stories’ and ‘The Art Worms on Imagination Street’ (with illustrator Francis Charlton). Linda and Francis are working on the next four books in the series. Linda also runs creative writing courses online, writes for online arts and culture magazine, Blackpool Social Club, and is developing a solo theatre show that she hopes to be able to perform in late 2021.
You can find her on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/wishyouwerehereseasidestories
www.facebook.com/lindahamptonactor
https://www.instagram.com@actoranytime
https://gjeometry.com/2013/06/04/great-gatsby-make-the-cats-pajamas-one-giant-leap-for-womankind/
]]>
We lived in the middle of the Tsavo National Park and were the only Europeans in the area.
We found Joey whilst out for a stroll in the evening. We came across some local village people who had a monkey who was clearly in a lot of pain as he had a rope wrapped tightly around his waist, so tight that it had rubbed a big hole in his tummy. My parents traded some cigarettes for the monkey and so began our adventures with Joey.
Mum cared for him like a baby. Removed the rope and bathed his wound with disinfectant and nursed him back to health.
He was a fun companion, much needed as there were no other children around for me to play with. I dressed him in my dolly’s clothes, pushed him around in my pram, I adored him.
He loved eggs. We would give him a whole raw egg. He would break the shell and then play for ages with the contents, confused as to the stickiness and transferring it from hand to hand. Very amusing.
He wasn’t very keen on car journeys and was a big distraction to my poor dad who was having to drive with a very distracted Joey jumping all over the seats trying to get out. He was rarely invited on car journeys.
Unfortunately he got a bit aggressive as he got older and bit my mum quite badly on her thumb. He had to go. I don’t know what happened to him my father dealt with him, best not to ask. It was a great loss.
My next funny memory of monkeys was when we were in South Africa.
We were staying at a rather smart hotel and our bedroom had a balcony overlooking a golf course. Being golfers we were just admiring the beauty of the fairways when a troop of baboons appeared.
The hotel bar was their target. We realised they had gone in when lots of people came running out shouting they are in the bar! The staff was obviously used to this and dispatched them without much further ado. What does a baboon have to do to get a Banana Daquiri these days??? !!!
Actually the monkeys there were quite dangerous. Security for your room was essential, never leave a window open!
There was one family there with a baby. The mum went back to her room one day with her baby and there was a baboon in her suite quite happily tucking into the fruit and biscuits. She was of course scared and managed to summon the staff who shooed it away.
Don’t people have funny jobs! Monkey chaser!!!
Travelling around India monkeys are rife and again can be a bit scary as will snatch at what you are holding hoping for food. That’s another story.
Jill’s house is a very large quirky pad near the coast in Bispham, Blackpool, the perfect location for shooting my gorgeous Autumn PJ range.
The first set of PJ’s were taken out into the garden despite the wind and rain, and poor Anita’s teeth where certainly chattering so we took the decision to abandon that idea and took the photoshoot indoors. Jill’s sitting room was the perfect space to show off my beautiful colourful nightwear, with vivid yellow’s and bright purple, the contrast was spectacular.
Jill also loves colour and has one of my gorgeous Frida Kahlo dressing gowns which I’m sure you can imagine is extremely colourful and whacky. It features monkeys, parrots, snakes and lots of lush foliage.
Jill herself is a very colourful character. She has pink/ purple hair, her clothes and shoes are never ordinary and she is festooned in loads of gorgeous silver bracelets and a ring on every finger, she has the perfect eye for creating a theme for the pyjamas and dressing gowns and was constantly introducing props to enhance the look of the sleepwear.
Not that it needed much more enhancement than being worn by the beautiful Anita. It is wonderful to see the colours and designs of my nightwear looking so luxurious and wearable.
Anita has the most wonderful smile and gorgeous curly blond hair and makes all the pyjamas and dressing gowns look instantly appealing, and at the end of the shoot Anita and her mum each bought a pair of the silky pyjamas, good choice ladies.
We had such a lovely day. We laughed and joked. Drank lots of coffee and ate chocolate and skinny whips which are a Jill's latest passion. Only 99 calories.
Now to upload them all, keep your eye out for them. Take a look at my current collection here.
At Rowan Charles we bring to you an array of choice when it comes to nightwear, designed with luxurious material and beautiful patterns. Whatever your preference we have you covered; sophisticated, cotton, cool for the tropics, oozing luxury, or just a little fun.
On our wonderful trips to India I get my inspiration for my gorgeous sleepwear, from the burst of bright and bold colours to the exquisite animals living in their natural habitat. The animals that you will find on the pyjamas are monkeys, parrots and beautiful elephants.
At Rowan Charles we don’t stop there, we have sleepwear for the keen gardener who has an eye for exotic floral designs on vibrant backgrounds of fuchsia, turquoise and green.
If you prefer to be a little more adventurous and you have your own style, you will love our Frida Kahlo sleepwear, such a rainbow of colours and patterns, easy to wear inside or out with a slouchy T-shirt.
If cotton is not your bag then we also have a fabulous range of slinky, silky and luxurious pyjamas and dressing gowns. They come in a cute little matching pouch, and a variety of different designs, something to suit everyone. Intricate paisley designs, stripes, flowers or geometric, something for everyone. Not just sleepwear. Wear the trousers with a crisp, cotton shirt or wear the top with jeans or white Capri pants.
These are absolutely perfect as gorgeous presents for those lovely friends that can never have too much sleepwear.
So if you’re a party girl, want a quiet night in, want sweet dreams or to mooch around on a lazy Saturday drinking tea and eating Hob Nobs, Rowan Charles ladies nightwear is for you.
]]>I love my little shop in St Anne’s Lancashire. Im Surrounded by colour and beautiful fabrics, most of which I’ve chosen whilst travelling in India; Block printed tablecloths, in hyacinth blue and white, Emerald green and cream or dusky pink and elephant grey.
Cotton pyjamas, and dressing gowns, patterned in a Moroccan design ,a gorgeous turquoise and jade green; Pink and white , paisley; fuschia pink with giant roses, turquoise patterned with exotic birds and flora. Many other designs and even crisp white for simplicity.
Frida Kahlo has been such a popular design. Vibrant colours, red, green and yellow on a background of black ,turquoise or white.
I also have a fabulous range of silky pjs and dressing gowns. Traditional designs, paisley and floral, gorgeous deep rich colours, of rubies ,emeralds and sapphires. These present in a matching pouch. You won’t find these anywhere, I have them made in Jaipur, Rajasthan. I only have one of each pattern. Gorgeous presents.
The rich colours reflect the beauty of India. The crazy ,wonderful country, a rising economy, and is such fun. Things you don’t like but lots of things that are just fascinating and on occasions unbelievable. Camels on the motor way, cows in restaurants, highly patterned and multi coloured lorries that wouldn’t be allowed on our roads, mounds of cow pats at the roadsides which are fuel for cooking; women working in the fields wearing stunning colourful saris and so much more. It is just incredible.
Please go to India, it’s scary initially, it’s noisy, it’s dirty, but it’s beautiful and colourful, The people are welcoming and warm and the food is delicious, particularly Dahl and Chappatis ,my favourite. We even had a ride on an elephant and a journey on a rice boat in Kerala.
Thanks for reading, Namaste.
www.rowancharles.co.uk
]]>Head on down to Rowan Charles on 18th May and have a nosy, in store, at some of our local spiritual healers, practitioners and gurus and learn more about the ways of the east. Philosophies such as Buddhism, Hindu and subsequently, Yoga, all derive from Northern India, Tibet, China and Japan. These practices have echoed around the globe for thousands years, anything from Yoga, Chakra healing and Meditation. They continue to have a deep impact on the world, growing in popularity in our western culture.
Throughout the all day event, Rowan Charles will provide food and drink for all attendees and everyone is welcome, including children.
Service providers, to be confirmed between now and the day of the event, will be available all day to talk to anyone who may be interested in what they do.
We want to introduce St Annes, the Fylde area and hopefully the whole of Lancashire and the North West to a taste of the east. We want to bring the vibrancy and passion that these cultures have into our home town and share our experiences and knowledge of this wonderful world with you.
Come down to the store, 20 Orchard Road, St Annes, on 18th May from 10-4pm and bring all the family.
For more information about the event, our products or for anything please contact us using the contact page below, our Facebook page or visit us in store and we will be more than happy to help.
Have a great day, and;
Namaste!
]]>Holker Hall is a beautiful location for local stall holders to spend the day in the grounds soaking up the atmosphere and presenting their goods.
A popular tourist attraction Holker Hall welcomes many a visitor through its sixteenth century doors. The hall in itself is beautifully kept and has an air of luxury design.
An excellent fit for our Rowan Charles products and styling. There will be many exceptional stall holders and food vendors at the event and there is even their famous evening BBQ on the 19th if you stick around long enough to experience it.
The Spring fair is open on May 19th & 20th and is guaranteed to be a wonderful weekend for all. We hope to see you there!
Holker Estate, Cark-in-Cartmel, Nr Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria LA11 7PL
http://www.holker.co.uk/
]]>
We are delighted to be attending the following events in the run up to Christmas.
5th and 6th November Holker Hall Christmas Fair
This is a lovely day out for the family. Lots of gift and food stalls. Last year there was a man on stilts chatting to everyone, there was a jazz band, a school band and a Lady doing stunts with fire!
For more information visit the Holker Hall website.
15th and 16th November NSPCC Christmas Fair
This is at the hotel at Levens . The local ladies really work hard to raise money for this very worthy charity. Again some super stalls for gifts and some yummy eats.
17th November to 1st December
Back in my lovely pop up shop on Station Road called the Studio near to Heima
10.30am till 4.30pm
2nd 3rd and 4th December Kirby Lonsdale Christmas Fair
Wooden chalets are the order of the day. Let's hope for better weather than last year when some of the roads were washed away.
Santa appears here on his sleigh. Yummy food stalls and even a fire eater!
For more information visit the Kirby Lonsdale Christmas Fair website website.
9th December Botany Bay Pink Link Christmas meeting
For more information visit the Pink Link website.
11th December Ansdell Christmas fair
12pm till 3pm
For more information visit the Fylde Christmas Market website.
If I have any energy left and the shop is available I hope to go back to the pop up shop the week before Christmas!
]]>Jaipur really is the most exciting city. On my journey into the city within the space of 20 minutes I saw 2 elephants, 3 camels, loads of cows,stray and very bony dogs, horses and goats.
The contrast is enormous because the Indian people are beautiful, dressed in their saris in fuchsia pink, emerald green, vibrant yellow ,usually embossed in gold or silver.
This trip was just before Diwali and the build up starts at least 2 weeks before. It is a celebration much like our Christmas. Families get together and eat and drink all sorts of exotic and flavoursome treats. I was invited to a gathering in a suburb of Jaipur and it was a very entertaining evening. I sat there smiling all night as I couldn't think of anything else to do as the assembled company were chattering away in Hindi. However it was very strange when a big chocolate cake was produced with a candle on it and they all burst into Happy Birthday to you!!!!!! Presumably there isn't a Hindi equivalent ?
I was asked to a meditation session in a primary school and sat with all the teachers . It was a very peaceful and at the same time energising experience. A petite, extremely pretty young woman dressed from head to toe in white dominated the session with her chanting about Divine Happiness, Divine Peace, Divine Love and Divine Prosperity, and then proceeded to bless the world and everyone in it. It was a privilege to be part of this meaningful happening and is something that would help the world if more people were to follow.
Anyway back to reality and my programme for the Christmas build up.
Namaste.
Jaipur is magical, it's a bit like being in an Indian Alice in Wonderland. It is a city rooted in history with ancient forts defining the city's skyline. It is difficult to comprehend half of what you see. So many people, young and old of all nationalities, elephants, camels, cows, dogs, cars, bikes, motorbikes, carts, battered old buses full of tired ,weary looking workers squashed together like a can of sardines, and ornate lorries painted blue, yellow and red, sporting tinsel and tassels.
I have been lucky to find a wonderful place to stay, with a family in their home. The lady of the house is the most wonderful cook and creates the most exotic dishes. This evening I had a South Indian feast of coconut chutney, sambhar, idli and dosa. Sambhar is lentils cooked with tomatoes, onions and fragrant spices. Yummy! Idli is a bit like white hard polenta and is ground rice and daal left to ferment and then formed into spaceship shapes and steamed. Dosa is a very thin crispy pancake stuffed with potato masala. After a hard days shopping this was very acceptable!
Jaipur is famous for its silverware, it's precious and semi precious stones and is the nerve centre of blue pottery. On the outskirts are the towns regarded as the centre of textile block printing. You cannot fail but to be captivated by the charm of this wonderful place, it's rich history, it's colourful culture and the grandeur of the royal palaces and forts.
Rowan Charles was the result of a brainstorming session whilst on a sailing holiday in Antigua, after many hours of discussion I ignored all suggestions and put together the middle names of my 2 adorable children.
]]>