Fashion designer , Melissa Odabash, shares with U her favourite tips and hangouts, giving U an insight into her 'Perfect Day'

How do you start your day? Usually I have a coffee and then go for a 25 minute jog around Hyde Park; the park is just opposite my house, so I try to make the most of having one of London’s large, green outdoor spaces on my doorstep. I’ve even been known to run into work on occasion, I find the exercise helps to clear my head and get focused for the day’s workload.

Leisurely lunch go to? My offices are in Mayfair, so my go-to lunch destination has to be the hidden gem Hush restaurant. It’s just round the corner tucked away behind Bond Street in a cute cobbled square and is one of the few with outdoor eating space which is great when you want to make the most of a rare, sunny London day. Oh, and their fried Zucchini is to die for!

Favourite way to pass the time in London? Discovering new places – particularly anywhere that can inspire my creativity. I especially love galleries and markets; you’ll always find me either vintage shopping in Portobello market with my daughters at the weekends or going to the latest fashion-related exhibition at the V&A.

Favourite London landmark, and why? Buckingham Palace, I love the Royal family and everything they stand for. Coming from America we don’t have Royals, so we are obsessed with them. Also, in my opinion the Queen is the most incredible woman in the world; her workload never stops and she has always respected and carried out all of her royal duties with great pride. I was fortunate enough to be a correspondent for France TV at Prince William’s wedding which was so exciting! It was all filmed in front of Buckingham Palace, so I have very fond memories.

Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout? In the summer I love Shoreditch House, I can waste away so many hours sitting around the pool and enjoying the London skyline. It’s also the perfect place for people watching, whilst sipping on a Moscow Mule served in chilled copper mug – it’s the only way to have it!

Favourite dining destination, and why? Mediteraneo in Notting Hill is by far the best Italian food in London and conveniently just around the corner from one of my boutiques which is how I stumbled across it. This place is the closest you will get to eating real Italian food in the UK. I used to live in Rome, so I am really picky when it comes to Italian food, but here every dish is amazing.

Final stop for a nightcap, and why? Claridge’s bar it’s got a great scene and filled with British charm and tradition, plus it’s close to my office and home. They do great snacks and cocktails and I never get bored of watching whoever is stopping by as it’s got such a great vibes.

Best hangover remedy? Cottage cheese, coca cola and French fries although maybe not all at once! I’m a real health fanatic so try and stay away from alcohol as much as possible, so luckily I’ve only been hung-over five times in my life.

Where next on your travels? Aspen in February – we are going skiing, it’s such a great family holiday.

Favourite thing about Urbanologie? As I travel non-stop to so many different places and cities, it’s the perfect way for me to stay informed about where I’m going and know the best restaurants to visit once I’m there. I completely trust Urbanologie’s recommendations, so always make sure I check out new places - wherever in the world I am.

Melissa Odabash is an American fashion designer and former model based in London. She is renowned for her swimwear designs and has been noted by Vogue as the "Ferraris of swimwear." Melissa has a large celebrity following and her designs have been worn by variety of A-listers including Beyonce, Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Rihanna, Jessie J & Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

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