Grammy winning singer Ciara talks The Standard through her guide to London, from eating at The Dorchester to shopping at Selfridges.
Home is …
My home is between New York and California. I have been in California for quite some time now. But what is really cool about NYC is that my dad is from there, so I have always felt a connection to it.
What was your first job in London?
My first job here was coming over to do promo for my first album Goodies. My song was a great success here. It was so much fun jumping into British culture, from the language to the food and meeting the beautiful people of the UK.
I love dates at Annabel’s because it has a sexy vibe and multiple food options... you cannot go wrong there
Where would you recommend for a first date?
I would say for a milestone anniversary or date you can go to Annabel’s because it has a very sexy vibe and multiple food options. You really cannot go wrong there. But for a first date you don’t want to go too over the top, so go for China Tang at The Dorchester. It has some of the best food in the world.
Which shops do you rely on?
Whenever I’m in London, I have to make a stop at Harrods. It’s iconic, its pieces are iconic, and the service is always top-tier. Selfridges is fun because it’s like a fashion playground for me — its bold designer collections are always so innovative. Alaïa is a good one too because I love strong, feminine tailoring and it nails it every time. For when I’m really looking to be inspired, visiting Dover Street Market always feels like more than shopping, it’s more like walking through an art gallery. And, of course, I can’t live without Reformation. As a mom and entrepreneur, I’m all about fashion that works hard and looks effortless. I also love the Harrods Food Halls.
What’s the best meal you’ve had in the city?
It was at China Tang at The Dorchester with my team. We had the honey spare ribs, dumplings, veggie spring rolls, roasted duck and fried rice.
Who is the most iconic Londoner?
This is such a hard question to answer. It would be between Princess Diana and Naomi Campbell. Princess Diana was a true humanitarian. She broke barriers, and her legacy still inspires women everywhere. Campbell is a trailblazer, no doubt about it, not just in fashion, but in breaking through racial barriers — and she’s still working it decades later. Both women I truly admire!
Where do you go and what do you do to have fun?
London is full of so much history, so I love any opportunity to explore the city’s culture. Riding past Big Ben is always cool. Buckingham Palace never gets old. Also, the London Eye is pretty cool.
Where do you exercise?
The best place to get exercise in London is running around the streets.
Where do you go to let your hair down?
Attending live performances and immersing myself in the energy of a concert will always be one of my favourite ways to unwind and feel inspired. London’s music scene is electric and there are so many iconic venues here to explore. I love any excuse to dance and lose myself in the moment. When I was in London for Mighty Hoopla recently, I had an impromptu DJ set outside King’s Cross where I got to play some new music and fan-favourite songs. I had so much fun with my fans and the people of London — there’s something so electric about the city!
What are you up to at the moment for work?
I am busy promoting my new album CiCi, which comes out on August 22. I’m also working with the NARS team on their next campaign — one I’m starring in — for a major launch this summer. It’s big, it’s bold and it’s about to be everything.
What’s your favourite work of art in the capital?
Honestly, I love London’s architecture. I’ve moved and travelled all around the United States and seen so many historical buildings. Whenever I am in London, I feel like I’m in a scene from a movie or The Crown.
What’s your favourite beauty spot?
The beauty department at Selfridges, especially shopping my favourite NARS products. My current favourite is the new Hot Escape Cheek palettes. Perfect for summer.
Ciara is a NARS global ambassador
