Shopping in London
Turnbull and Asser
The original Jermyn Street shirt maker, Turnbull & Asser has dressed among others Winston Churchill, Prince Charles and even Al Pacino. However the appeal of these distinctive shirts is not just the extensive royal and celebrity clientele but also the superb cut and quality.
Vivienne Westwood
The pioneer of the punk look, the amazing Vivienne Westwood is now part of the international fashion elite and has become something of a national treasure. Her designs are immediately recognizable for their immaculate cut, eccentric design and voluminous use of fabric, which is frequently her trademark tartan.
Temperley
Born and raised in Somerset, Alice Temperley is the quintessential English rose. Intricate beaded and embroidered dresses have become the Temperley trademark. So if you are looking for a gorgeous shimmery party dress take a look at the new collection.
Rigby & Peller
Her Majesty's corsetière has been in business since 1939. If you have the right bank balance, you can have exactly the right bra as the company prides itself on its expert fitting service. Rigby & Peller offers a bespoke service and also carries an impressive collection of ready-to-wear lingerie and swimwear.
Burberry
One of the most high-profile British brands, Burberry has been copied to death, but there are very few designs as famous as the Burberry check. Now a high fashion leader with the Prorsum label, Burberry will always be most famous for its classic trench coat.
Pringle
Thanks to cracking new designers and slick celebrity-filled advertising campaigns Pringle of Scotland is no longer famous for just producing golf jumpers. However devotees of Pringle's signature diamond pattern shouldn't panic. It hasn't disappeared. It's just been updated.
Hamleys
Founded in 1760 as a small toyshop, Hamleys moved to its present location in Regent Street in 1881. Today it's the most legendary of toyshops. Covering seven floors the store has stocked the nurseries of The Queen and her children and promises to mesmerize children and grown-ups alike.
Floris
The Floris perfumery was established in 1730 by Jermyn Street comb maker and barber Juan Farmenias Floris, who, homesick for the floral scents of his native Menorca, began blending fragrant oils. Famous customers have included the dandy Beau Brummell, Florence Nightingale and Jackie Onassis. No 89 was chosen by Ian Fleming as the favorite scent of James Bond.
John Lobb
Founded in 1849, John Lobb is a traditional cobbler of the highest order. The made-to-measure shoe shop in St James’s Street is an amazing step back in time, and if you are a new customer expect to pay at least £2000 and wait for at least nine months for your handmade shoes.
James Smith & Sons
It shouldn't be too surprising to find a shop devoted to the making and the selling of umbrellas and walking sticks. James Smith & Sons opened in 1867 and is still run by the descendents of the original owners.
Daunt Books
There is nothing unusual about bookselling, but there is something unique about Daunt Books. Located in the increasingly popular Marylebone High Street this store with its oak galleries has been described as "airy and elegant, a temple of travel and literature".