Photo from Prue Leith’s upcoming Nothing in Moderation tour

Prue Leith’s upcoming tour is called ‘Nothing in Moderation’. And, the title could be referring to the 82-year-old’s collection of over 200 beaded necklaces. My handful of costume jewellery hangs on the back of the door in the spare room, no bother; but when statement necklaces spark joy and become your signature, they obviously need a space of their own.

This weekend’s Financial Times HTSI magazine (formerly How To Spend It) featured Prue Leith’s new Gloucestershire home. The Bake Off judge, celebrated author (Leith has written eight novels and 14 cookbooks) and cookery school founder, has a penchant for bold accessories and show-stopping specs.

And while I enjoyed having a quick look at the jolly decor and collection of food blenders, it was the display wall of Leith’s stand-out, costume jewellery that I kept coming back to. The tree design created by her husband John Playfair, a former fashion designer, is dripping with colourful baubles, bangles and drop earrings. This decorative orchard of accessories has been nicknamed the ‘Pruesplosion.’

Here’s what Prue Leith does with her statement necklaces when she’s not wearing them…

Photos from the FT HTSI by Jake Curtis

The accessories wall or Pruesplosion

Prue Leith’s house, designed by architect Charlie Luxton, is a blend of vintage and modern furniture and fittings, with primary coloured walls appearing throughout. ‘ I just love it,’ Leith says, ‘ I really appreciate a joyous explosion of colour.’

Prue’s food blenders

Primary colours

Read the FT feature, written by Mark C O’Flaherty, HERE. Photos are by Jake Curtis.

More on Prue Leith HERE, and details of the upcoming tour, can be found on her website HERE.