Because Magazine’s Little Black Book is far more than your average city guide. An insider directory to London, as seen through the eyes of our friends in fashion, beauty, fitness, food and the arts – all of them, experts in their fields – it’s your go-to Where’s Where for niche and noteworthy recommendations to help you navigate and use our Capital at its best. This week, founder and creative director of handbag brand, Meli Melo, Melissa del Bono, takes us to her favourite secret gallery, which shares the work of London’s most exciting emerging artists.




Where… My secret gallery for upcoming artists that I love is Dellasposa Gallery (2A Bathhurst Street, W2 2SD). But I’m also giving a special mention to Unit London (3 Hanover Square, W1S 1HD), which is equally as great for emerging creatives.

Why…There is currently a great show on at Dellasposa Gallery that champions female empowerment and it acts as a platform to showcase new talent.

Because… When visiting galleries I always carry my headphones (as often I enjoy music and zoning out at an exhibition!), my iPhone as I love to take photos of what I’m about to see – then it gives me a chance to reconnect with the painting or sculpture I fell in love with, and some organic raw chocolate to keep energy up! Then I always have my favourite Diptyque Do Son perfume with me, because I like to always have my familiar smell when I’m on the go.



Melissa del Bono of Meli Melo (and her newest 60s-inspired accessories venture, Born in the Sun) knows a star of the art world when she sees one – joining forces with up-and-coming visual artist Olivia Steele resulted in a colourful, slogan-embossed bag collaboration.


"All I dreamed of was to have something pretty on my arm like the women I had admired."

Connoisseur of luxury leather, the designer became inspired by the wicker baskets of women in her childhood home of Lipari, Sicily, to create her playful brand. Years, and a plethora of materials later, Meli Melo has risen to be a key player in the bright accessories department – with its latest evolution seeing styles take on a NYC refresh, complete with taxi colour tones and borough-themed badges.

A Meli Melo bag will serve you many years of service – and makes for the perfect plus one for your gallery visit!

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+ Seek out the shades! #TeamBecause present the eyewear picks hot on their style radar.

+ George Northwood hunts for the best head massage in London, so you can sit back and relax...