On the eve of Saturday, 25, February 2017 more than 450 guests joined Ronan and Storm Keating for the annual Emeralds & Ivy Ball, which took place at the Battersea Evolution Centre. The ball, which is now in its 11th year, has raised more than £7 million, since it had begun, in 2006, to support the Marie Keating Foundation and Cancer Research UK’s Cancer Awareness Roadshow.

Ronan and Storm Keating pulled out all the stops at this year’s star-studded, circus-themed ball to celebrate the partnership between the Marie Keating Foundation and Cancer Research UK, the world’s leading cancer charity. My mother and I were invited to the ball. We had a blast from the get-go with world-class entertainment in abundance. Upon arrival, we could not resist a few glasses of bubbly from one of the beverage sponsors, Pol Roger champagne.

After an hour or so, we were then escorted to the main hall, where guests were greeted by Ronan and Storm Keating, followed by a touching speech by their children. James Nesbitt OBE hosted the rest of the evening while guests enjoyed a three-course meal in the style of authentic fine dining. What made the night even more dynamic were speeches by guests Sir Harpal Kumar, who was knighted in the 2016 New Years Honours List for services to cancer research, and a cancer survivor who shared her incredible journey.

I wanted to look fabulous for this event, so I went all out concerning hair, makeup, and my outfit choice, of course. I opted for a rather classic outfit: a two-piece in black and navy combined. I would not usually put such colours together, but I loved the style of the top and trousers, both of which oozed understated glamour. With every outfit, one needs chic accessories. It is not necessary to wear a designer brand from head-to-toe, but be innovative with your fashion choices – Why be afraid to do so? Luckily, I found a beautiful Valentino clutch in Designer Exchange, Knightsbridge. I had no qualms about mixing a high-street ensemble with a designer handbag. I will let you in on a secret – anyone can make an outfit look out of this world provided the fit, colour, and added accessories compliment one another and are styled well. My advice would be to pay more attention to detail by adding extra Va Va Voom. That said, let your accessories do the talking, and hence why I could not resist a clutch by Valentino, crafted from black vinyl. The Rockstud crystal embellished hand-strap blended with my metallic silver glitter shoes and stood out elegantly in the spotlight.

11th Annual Emeralds & Ivy Ball, London, UK – 25 Feb 2017

11th Annual Emeralds & Ivy Ball, London, UK – 25 Feb 2017

Have you ever heard of a clutch getting ‘papped’? Well, that is what happened on the red carpet. My choice of a bag was clearly a hit and somehow sugar-coated the rest of my outfit with an alluring appeal. It is coincidental that an article was published just recently in the Mail Online, where I provide commentary on the popularity of Valentino Rockstuds. They have remained on trend and undoubtedly have the Va Va Voom factor for special red-carpet moments.

Valentino Clutch From Designer Exchange

11th Annual Emeralds & Ivy Ball, London, UK – 25 Feb 2017

Designer Exchange stock a range of bags from designers including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes to name just a few. Furthermore, all four stores across the UK including the one in Knightsbridge, London buy, sell and exchange previously owned designer accessories offering payment on the day for bags that are authentic and in good condition like the Valentino clutch. I found it light to carry and such a convenient size for all my evening essentials. Size matters, so the old saying goes. On that note, I got my “Va Va Voom back” in time for such a memorable occasion to celebrate a worthy cause and to raise awareness.

Written by @Styleiconnat | The Lifestyle Collective “A Unique Expression of A Creative Power” | Photos by Jon Furniss OK! Magazine Photographer | Photo of Valentino Clutch From Designer Exchange by Nils Jorgensen – Rex Features