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Synonymous with English style |
48 Jermyn Street London, London SW1Y 6DL United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7290 8600 http://www.dunhill.com/ |
Only a few years ago, Alfred Dunhill had become one of those brands in jeopardy of losing its English appeal. The upscale store epitomised English gentleman style, but it seemed the Japanese and Americans were the only ones wearing its clothes. That's all changed, however, since the line gave itself a modern overhaul (which, by the way, maintains the essence of the old classics). You'll find the selection of ties and cufflinks to be superb, and you won't be disappointed with the personal shopping option either. Visit the Alfred Dunhill Cigar Shop at 27 Jermyn Street for a wonderful selection of cigars and a peek at the largest walk-in humidor in London. You'll find David Linley designs there as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The original multi-designer store |
23-27 South Molton Street London, London W1K 5RD United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7514 0016 http://www.brownsfashion.com southmoltonstreet@brownsfashion.com |
One of the most famous fashion emporiums in London, Joan Burnstein's style Mecca is still a force to be reckoned with. Every label is lovingly hand-picked, saving you time and energy which should be saved up for earning the money you'll need to buy designer wear from the likes of Jil Sander, Tocca, Dolce & Gabbana, Dries van Noten, Clements Ribiero and Ghost. More than this though, Browns is a complete shopping experience, where there is always something new and spectacular to see, whether it is a one off silk wrap from Indonesia or a precious gemstone ring from Rajasthan. And, of course, where you can find out which labels are hot, which are classics and which are about to get big quicker than you can say "fashion victim". Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Costume jewellery galore |
189 Fulham Road South Kensington London, London SW3 6JN United Kingdom +44 20 7352 3045 http://www.butlerandwilson.co.uk/ |
With B&W's top quality costume jewellery you won't ever need to worry about accessories again (or worry about the cost of insuring your gems). From delicate tiaras to huge brooches, there's something for everyone in this retro-looking shop, although a few of the pieces do miss the mark (a rather ugly skeleton shaped brooch being one). The more beautifully elaborate vintage, classic and bridal designs are worn by the glitterati - literally. Handbags and some wonderful 1950s silk nighties are available too in case you want to go for the complete vintage look. Another branch is at 20 South Molton Street, W1 (tel. +44 20 7409 2955). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Venerated French house |
26 Old Bond Street London, London W1S 4QD United Kingdom +44 20 7493 5040 http://www.chanel.com/ |
Words are not enough to describe this venerated French haute couture house. Young ladies come of age when they get their first Chanel woollen suit and quilted bag. But it is also a classic label that can happily be worn by three generations. For most women, the thought of wearing an authentic Chanel garment is a virtual fantasy. Models like Claudia and Naomi may get theirs for free, but you'll need to visit the boutique and be prepared to part with a lot of money. With shoes, perfumes, handbags, cosmetics and toiletries available, you can seriously be covered from head to toe in Chanel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New York chic |
19 New Bond Street London, London W1S 2RD United Kingdom +44 207 499 6238 http://www.dkny.com/ |
Bringing the quintessence of New York street style to London, Donna Karen New York's London store has everything from funky sports gear to sartorially elegant evening wear. Set over four spacious floors, DKNY's designs are fun, stylish and, above all, eminently wearable. And if you need to rest those tired feet after the day's shopping, there's even a smart café on the ground floor, which, among other things, serves an interesting array of refreshing juice drinks. DKNY is also perfect in you're looking to treat your label loving niece or nephew, with a range of clothes for four to twelve-year-olds that are practical and hard wearing, as well as fashionable. So, if you want the apple of your eye to be the envy of the playground, kit them out with a pair of trendy jogging bottoms, or a cool DKNY hooded top. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sleek yet casual American chic |
19 New Bond Street London, London W1A 2RD United Kingdom +44 20 7495 3100 http://www.donnakaran.com |
Sleek, casual and flattering natural clothing is brought to you by the Queen of minimalist fashion in New York City. Grey, black and white hues dominate her designer label collection. The bronzed designer extraordinaire wants everyone to look as beautiful and contented as she herself feels in the Hamptons. Her minimalist line has won her the loyalty of countless ordinary women and an army of famous clients, such as Demi Moore, who was so enamoured she agreed to appear in her ads. Yes, the clothes will make you look effortlessly heavenly, but such a feat comes with a hefty price tag. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic perfumery |
89 Jermyn Street London, London SW1Y 6JH United Kingdom +44 (0)845 702 3239 http://www.florislondon.com fragrance@florislondon.com |
This appealing old-fashioned store has been selling perfume and associated products, such as body lotions, talcum powders, scented candles and a range of men's toiletries for over 270 years. Floris has wonderful flowery fragrances such as gardenia, lavender and tuberose. Their facial mist is great for hot summer days. The clientele tends to be the over-50's, but with good quality products and friendly service, everyone can enjoy browsing here. Also has a concession in Peter Jones in Sloane Square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An English shopping experience |
181 Piccadilly London, London W1A 1ER United Kingdom +44 20 7734 8040 http://www.fortnumandmason.com/ |
Here, amongst Fortnum & Mason's luxurious surroundings, the British Empire lives on. Small and always heaving with tourists, Fortnum and Mason is much more than just the Queen's grocer. With full carpeting and chandeliers, department store shopping takes on a whole different meaning. F&M's packaging is traditional and elegant, and is free when you buy any gift (except food, which is a pity, as the Food Hall is F&M's highlight) and there's a vast selection of own-brand teas, coffees, wines and provisions to choose from. Also, make sure you stop to see the curious fountain by the doors. But F&M is most famous for its inimitable hampers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Reliable wardrobe casuals |
30-31 Long Acre Covent Garden London, London WC2E 9LA United Kingdom +44 20 7379 0779 http://www.gap.com custserv@gap.com |
The Gap could kit out your entire family, with clothes for men and women and a kids' store just opposite. Khaki is a perennial favorite, with white and beige a close second. Look out for great denim, trousers, cotton jerseys, sweatshirts and men's underwear. As you know, this dependable and increasingly trendy worldwide chain offers good quality and moderately-priced pieces, specializing in the smart-casual look with sizes for practically anyone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Show-stopping classics |
34-36 Old Bond Street London, London W1S 4QW United Kingdom +44 20 7499 1862 |
Despite the tragic and sudden loss of this great designer, his empire lives on. With younger sister Donatella now at the helm, the collections remain true to Gianni's distinctly classic style and have continued to be a great success. Gianni dressed the most glamorous women and his clothes never failed to create a paparazzi frenzy. Donatella continues his legacy with aplomb, and just as Gianni's passion for opera, theatre and ballet was reflected in his designs, her love of contemporary music now shines through, particularly in the Versus Jeans Couture range of funkier, sportier and more youthful clothes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Le collezioni magnifiche |
37 Sloane Street London, London SW1 United Kingdom +44 20 7235 6232 http://www.giorgioarmani.com/i... |
Giorgio Armani is one of the fashion worlds original stars. Indeed, the rich and famous line up to buy his collections without as much as a preview - they know he consistently produces breathtakingly beautiful clothes of an elegant and minimalist strain. Perhaps thats why Hollywood stars tend to favour him right before the Oscars. While Emporio Armani is a slightly cheaper, more casual line, you wont receive quite the same pampering that you will receive the minute you step foot in this sophisticated house of fashion. Check website for other branches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sexy, expensive clothes to die for |
18 Sloane Street London, London SW1X 9NE United Kingdom +44 20 7235 6707 http://www.gucci.com/uk/uk-eng... clientservice-europe@gucci.it |
More museum than boutique, this exquisite house of fashion exudes a true 'look but don't touch' atmosphere. A bouncer greets you at the door and armies of personal buying assistants, wearing headsets, patrol past you as you browse. Unless you are truly loaded, browsing may be all you can afford here, considering that blouses start at around GBP420. Images of this seasons runway shows are projected on video screens throughout the store. Thanks to Tom Ford's sexy designs Gucci has become super hip again. The likes of Spice Girl Victoria Beckham (and anyone with a Platinum card) are known to come here on regular shopping sprees. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sloane zone |
179 Sloane Street Knightsbridge London, London SW1X 9QP United Kingdom +44 20 7823 1014 http://www.hermes.com/ |
Famous for its silk scarves, the equestrian link and luxury leather goods, Hermès represents true luxury. The bags, especially, are very sought-after. Although the scarves have become a cliché of the Sloane uniform, this fashion house still retains its exclusive air. While it is undoubtedly expensive, you have to remind yourself that are paying for quality. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Shirts fit for a king |
73 Jermyn Street London, London SW1 United Kingdom +44 20 7930 5336 http://www.hilditchandkey.co.uk/ hilditchandkey@talk21.com |
For over a century, Hilditch & Key have homed in on the essence of quality craftsmanship and fine tailoring. Specialising in stylish and comfortable shirts, every buttonhole is hand sewn, the cuffs are pleated, collars are hand turned, patterns are impeccably matched and buttons are crafted from real shell. The attention to detail, like every shirt being hand pressed before reaching the shops, has earned Hilditch & Key a very worthy reputation for top-quality tailoring. You can find the alleged "best shirts in the world" at Hilditch & Key's three London outlets and at their branch in Paris. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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England's most famous bespoke bootmaker |
9 St James's Street London, London SW1A 1EF United Kingdom +44 20 7930 3664 / +44 20 7930 3665 http://www.johnlobbltd.co.uk enquiries@johnlobbltd.co.uk |
In a city teeming with famous and distinguished tailors and shoemakers, John Lobb stands out as the most exclusive one. Known for his exquisite boot making, Lobb learned his trade from his father. In fact, the family's very first store was opened in Cornwall in 1849 by Lobb's great grandfather, the first to learn the trade. All the traditional styles and materials are on offer, and a women's range is also available. Prices are high and you should be prepared to wait anywhere from six months to a year for your first pair. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fashion and quality combined |
23 Old Bond Street Mayfair London, London W1S 4PZ United Kingdom +44 20 7629 3713 http://www.joseph.co.uk/ |
Enshrined in the hearts of London's trendy brigade, Joseph is a way of life for some, especially when in comes to trousers. So buy here to join in the pleasurable experience. Complementing the Joseph range, a handful of garments from other international designers are stocked. This is very fashionable clothing which is comfortable and excellent quality, naturally. The flagship store at Brompton Cross in South Kensington, SW3, also stocks the ultimate in designer brands including Jimmy Choo and Prada. Also see branch on Sloane Street, SW1. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Revamped Spanish fashion house |
130 New Bond Street London, London W1S 2TH United Kingdom +44 20 7493 3914 |
This Spanish fashion house started life in a Madrid back-street as a leather workshop, and it wasn't until 1997 that hot young designer Narciso Rodriguez bucked the trend and began using other fabrics to create the prêt-a-porter line of womenswear that has transformed Loewe into a luxurious and in demand label. The leather goods are still highly coveted, especially the coats, but now there are also gorgeously feminine cotton dresses, silk camisoles, cashmere jumpers and countless other non-leather items to choose from - all eminently wearable as well as sleek, elegant and sexy to boot. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Suitcases of the stars |
17-18 New Bond Street London, London W1S 2RB United Kingdom +44 20 7399 4050 http://www.louisvuitton.com |
This is the place to get your hands on the very same luggage that has accompanied Hollywood stars, British aristocrats and Victoria Beckham across the world - if you've got plenty of cash to spare, that is. With prices starting at just under £100 for key rings and going up to £20,000 for a trunk, you might be tempted to hold on to that battered, Columbo-style suitcase just a little longer. Designer Marc Jacob has also introduced a new, more contemporary range of luggage to this heavily labelled but still classy brand, with colours ranging from café au lait, to baby blue and deep red. Not that Louis Vuitton limits itself purely to luggage these days. The fashion collection is every bit as exclusive and stylish as the travel accessories and features green lamb-leather jackets, fitted beige trousers and wide-lapel cotton shirts for men, and tight, black drill jackets, flowing, embroidered skirts and pastel, patterned, low-back dresses for women. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Deeply sexy or over-hyped? |
25-27 Heddon Street Regent Street London, London W1B 4BH United Kingdom +44 20 7434 4040 |
The surprise of a souk-like atmosphere greets you as you turn the corner into this apparently quiet side street. Renowned as an incredibly hip, hot, richly, deeply sexy, and darkly sumptuous, late-night North African restaurant experience, this dim Ali Baba's Den is replete with gold tables, lanterns and trinkets, low-down cushions and Arabic music infusing the aromatic air. Ambience and looks are certainly the main draw, and it's a place for the city's young crowds to be seen (and packed) in. Abdallah El Rgachi is in the kitchen, designing dishes like grilled stuffed sardines with lemon, traditional Moroccan pastilla and tasty, tender tagines, with cous cous as light as snow for the chic Momo populace, belying rumours that the standard of cuisine is relegated to second place here. House wines include an Algerian Red at £10.50. The members-only bar in the basement remains ultra-exclusive, but do try the sister salad bar, tea room and bazaar Mô next door (number 23) for a relaxing mint tea break amid the arty arrangement of North African artefacts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Italian quirkiness |
28-29 Conduit Street London, London W1S 2XZ United Kingdom +44 20 7318 0555 |
Flamboyant and fun, Moschinos adventurous designs definitely require both a sense of humour and a boldness of spirit to carry them off. But, if you can do it, you'll certainly brighten up your day and should raise a few smiles too - just don't wear them to meet your bank manager. Some choice items include school maam-style fitted dresses; black work-suits teamed with patterned skirts; top-hats and ties; and even a French maid's outfit. The ranges are varied and include serious couture, cheap and chic, jeans and accessories, so you should be able to find something within your price range. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stylish office wear |
158 New Bond Street Mayfair London, London W1Y 9BA United Kingdom +44 20 7499 8408 |
The ultimate in office chic, the beautiful, neutral tones and classic cuts of Nicole Farhi are a favourite with those who don't think that fashion should have to be sacrificed in the workplace. All garments are finished off perfectly with expert tailoring and superbly comfortable, stylish fabrics like linen, silk, organza and cotton. Especially popular are the unstructured suits, which combine professional dressing with femininity and grace. Nicole has also recently turned her hand to producing items for the home, with huge wooden bowls, and sleek, glass coffee tables being the order of the day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Casual luxury |
1 New Bond Street Mayfair London, London W1Y 9PE United Kingdom +44 207 535 4600 http://www.polo.com |
The London flagship store was inspired by the ocean-going liners of the 1920s and combines art deco architecture with the opulent decor of a gentlemen's club. The women's section, for instance, features a white marble fireplace, a drop beaded crystal chandelier and bleached mahogany walls - and offers a ship-style view of the men's floor below. As for the clothes, the American designer has triumphed in the casual-wear market over the past few years, with Ralph Lauren shirts having become the Sloane uniform of choice. Beyond the basics, there is also the more funky Polo Sport, the Purple label, a selection of Collection Classics and, in keeping with the shop's theme, the Cruise range. There's even a collection of interior furnishings, sure to add a touch of style to any home. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Clothing that says "envy me" |
16-18 Old Bond Street Mayfair London, London W1S 4PS United Kingdom +44 20 7647 5000 |
This top class boutique dresses the slickest stars, male and female. Miuccias empire has catapulted its designs into the 'must-have' category for any modern icon (the essential Prada black bag being the most obvious example). Shopping here is an enlightening mathematical experience, as there is an inverse correlation between the price tag and size of garment - the more it costs, the less you get. However, they do manage to produce many indisputably stunning pieces - the store is filled with gorgeous items in sharp, slick cuts. Another branch is at 43-45 Sloane Street, SW2 (tel. +44 20 7235 0008). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cherie Blair's favourite designer |
17 Hampstead High Street London, London NW3 1PX United Kingdom +44 20 7431 0253 http://www.ronitzilkha.co.uk/ info@ronitzilkha.co.uk |
The preferred designer of Cherie Blair would be the favourite of many others if they could afford it. Zilkha's collections feature exquisite fabrics, cuts and colours in mostly neutral shades. A dress and matching jacket could set you back £600, but you'd look a million dollars. Part of Zilkhas success lies in her ability to create clothes which are contemporary yet classic so they won't need changing with every shift of the fashion wind. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Rolls Royce of shoe stores |
24-25 New Bond Street London, London W1Y 0PS United Kingdom +44 20 7629 6903 / +44 20 7629 6904 http://www.russellandbromley.c... enquiries@russellandbromley.co.uk |
This upmarket one-stop shoe-shop stocks a wide variety of designer labels with brands on offer as diverse as Donna Karan, Superga sneakers and their in-house label. With the very cheapest shoes on offer costing a tidy £70, you'll need to have your credit cards at the ready and to check your conscience in at the door - but for the quality (and brand names) offered, it's actually great value for money. Even more so if you visit during the sales, when the simple window displays and in-store chaos make this high-fashion W1 store look like an Essex discount chain, even if the reduced prices are the only similarity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jermyn Street shirts and ties |
106 Jermyn Street Flagship Store London, London SW1 6EQ United Kingdom +44 20 7930 4291 http://www.tmlewin.co.uk |
Clean and classic is the T.M. Lewin & Sons' way. Since they began over a century ago as small shirt makers, the shop has expanded to include a mail-order catalogue and branches in London. The shop offers all manners of quality dress shirts, silk ties, cufflinks, collar stiffeners and boxer shorts. A new suit shop has also opened at 107 Jermyn Street. As with fellow shirt-makers Thomas Pink, a sleek, streamlined selection of women's clothing has recently been introduced. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic shirt maker |
85 Jermyn Street London, London SW1Y 6JD United Kingdom +44 20 7930 6364 http://www.thomaspink.co.uk/ info@thomaspink.co.uk |
A tailor in London during the late 18th century, the original Thomas Pink specialised in men's hunting coats. Nowadays the label is known for its classic shirts, and it's no coincidence that this shop is on Jermyn Street, which is to shirts what Savile Row is to suits. Thomas Pink offers shirts in a multitude of styles and fabrics along with ties, accessories, boxer shorts and braces. There's even a range of womenswear available; Pink Woman is at 161 Sloane Street, SW1 (tel. +44 20 7730 5967). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Grandmother of British fashion |
6 Davies Street London, London W1Y 3DW United Kingdom +44 20 7629 3757 http://www.viviennewestwood.com/ info@viviennewestwood.co.uk |
Fashion's original enfant terrible maybe viewed more as a dotty old aunt these days, but the women most famous for putting safety pins in Johnny Rotten's leather bondage strides still revels in her continued ability to shock - even if she's now more likely to induce laughter than horror. (Who could forget Naomi Campbell falling over while trying to walk wearing a pair of 12-inch platforms?) With collections ranging from garish ruffle effect dresses to leave-nothing-to-the-imagination hot pants, Ms Westwood's designs are definitely for attention seekers only, but are certainly worth looking at just for the sheer imagination that has gone into them. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Rive Gauche |
32-33 Old Bond Street London W1S 2TQ United Kingdom +44 20 7493 1800 http://www.yslonline.com/ |
With over 40 years experience under his fashionable belt, this legendary French designer classic remains at the forefront of the fashion industry. Since he first introduced his infamous slinky tuxedo suits, he has graduated to grand master of design, dressing both men and women in elegant yet stunningly seductive creations. Granted, the clientèle today is a little more mature, but who needs a revival when you've reached iconic status? The house of YSL has however been subject to a recent take-over by Gucci, with Tom Ford taking up the mantel of creative director from Alber Elbaz, whose last season, incorporating the prêt-à-porter line "Rive Gauche" for women, kept the principles of YSL design impressively alive. Along the designer row of New Bond Street, the YSL boutique is sleek and spacious, with subtle low-lighting and mirrors, reflecting the predominantly black collection of apparel and accessories. Concessions can be found at Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Joseph. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not xactly Paris |
21 Heddon Street London, London W1B 4BG United Kingdom +44 20 7255 8899 http://www.conran-restaurants.... |
"Zincbars" are quite a tradition in Paris & situated away from the rush of Regent Street on Heddon Street. It is a lively, informal restaurant open throughout the day; whether you only have time for a quick coffee, a light lunch or prefer a lingering dinner with friends. Zinc is an ideal venue. They use only the freshest, seasonal ingredients to create an eclectic menu of sharing boards, chunky ciabatta's, delicious crustacea served in the shell, healthy salads and mighty grills. Examples include the incomparable Zinc burger with cheese, a mighty Chateaubriand (for 2), roasted tomatoes, chunky chips & béarnaise sauce, Snails in garlic butter & a selection of mixed charcuterie & antipasti. It's a firm favourite with the media crowd & during good weather drinkers as well as diners spill out onto the terrace. Review © 2007, Wcities |