Embark on a fashionable journey through London with Remy Farrell, the esteemed fashion and shopping editor for Who What Wear. With her insider recommendations, Farrell unveils the city's hidden gems and top-notch shopping spots, providing a curated guide for both holidaymakers and locals alike.
London, adorned with ancient royal palaces and Georgian architecture, offers more than just city lights – it exudes glamour and sophistication. In this bustling metropolis, the holiday shopping experience becomes a blend of historical charm and contemporary chic. From the lively streets of Carnaby and King's Road to the vibrant energy of street markets and regal department stores, London's diverse retail landscape is fit for queens.
Remy Farrell, a seasoned Londoner with nearly a decade of residence, shares her expertise on navigating the city's sprawling shopping scene. "London just so happens to be one of the best cities in the world to shop in," Farrell notes. However, she advises having a plan in place due to the overwhelming array of options that could lead to hours of aimless wandering.
To streamline your shopping adventure, Farrell presents her insider picks for the best buys in London. For those with limited time but a penchant for luxury, she recommends Notting Hill and Marylebone High Street. According to Farrell, these areas serve as the beating hearts of their neighborhoods, offering a central hub for both shopping and socializing. Whether you're exploring the pastel-hued charm of Notting Hill's Farmer's Market or admiring the brick townhouses along Marylebone High Street, these locales promise a delightful blend of culture, cuisine, and curated shopping experiences.
Remy Farrell's discerning eye for style has been honed through her roles as a shopping editor and fashion assistant for prestigious entities such as Grazia UK, Yoox Net-a-Porter, and British Vogue. Her weekends are dedicated to perusing London's window displays and staying abreast of the latest retail trends.
For a perfect day of shopping and socializing, Farrell recommends starting at Notting Hill's Farmer's Market, indulging in a variety of breakfast delights, and progressing to the iconic Portobello Market for antique treasures. The day culminates with a leisurely lunch at Gold restaurant and bar on Portobello Road.
Join Remy Farrell on this curated exploration of London's fashion wonderland, where every street and market stall tells a tale of style, elegance, and the vibrant spirit of one of the world's fashion capitals.
Dive into London's fashion tapestry with Remy Farrell's personalized guide, where each door opens to a unique shopping experience along the iconic Marylebone High Street. Farrell, the discerning fashion and shopping editor for Who What Wear, curates a journey featuring hidden gems like the enchantingly quiet Daunt Books, the chic French fashion haven Sézane, and the beauty haven Space NK. Traverse the picturesque Georgian lanes of Marylebone, savoring the eclectic boutiques and restaurants that define the area's distinct charm. Complete the adventure with a savory stop at The Ginger Pig for a delectable sausage roll – a Marylebone must-try, according to Farrell.
For those seeking the epitome of women's fashion, Farrell's recommendations span the diverse neighborhoods of East London, Chelsea, and Mayfair. Delve into East London's Rites in Hackney's Broadway Market for designer rentals and explore the vegan luxury designs at House of Sunny. Take a breather at Café Cecilia, offering stylish gourmet bites amid the vibrant atmosphere. In Chelsea, embark on a King's Road journey, discovering exquisite stores like Rejina Pyo and Reformation. The recently refurbished Rixo store, with its stunning interior and in-store coffee shop/bar, stands out as a particular favorite for Farrell.
Venturing into the opulent enclave of Mayfair in the West End, Farrell invites you to experience the unmatched allure of Mount Street. Amidst the winter charm, enjoy mulled wine outside The Connaught Hotel and explore designer boutiques like Simone Rocha and Roksanda. Revel in the immersive ambiance, escaping the bustling crowds of nearby Oxford Circus and Bond Street.
For the sartorially inclined gentlemen, Farrell spotlights East London and Soho as the go-to destinations for men's fashion. Uncover unique vintage-inspired clothes and gadgets at Labour and Wait hardware shop, showcasing a trendy blend of classic and contemporary styles.
Remy Farrell's London shopping guide is not just a list of stores but an invitation to immerse yourself in the city's diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct flavor of fashion, culture, and culinary delights. Unlock the doors to London's style treasures with Farrell as your expert guide.
Remy Farrell, the trendsetting fashion and shopping editor for Who What Wear, unveils her secret haunts for men's shopping in London's vibrant neighborhoods of East London and Soho. When scouting for unique and timeless finds, Farrell steers her course towards Labour and Wait in Shoreditch, a charming old-school hardware store echoing the anti-trend lifestyle shops of the '50s and '60s. Here, leather-aproned experts guide you through classic toolboxes, fishermen's jumpers, work jackets, hand soaps, stationery, and kitchen tools – a treasure trove catering to the discerning man.
For a more contemporary flair, Farrell recommends a journey starting at Broadwick Street in Soho, weaving through the Carnaby Street area and its hidden back streets. End, a two-story clothing emporium, beckons with a diverse range from luxury fashion brand Loewe to the rugged appeal of Carhartt workwear. A grooming station on the second floor adds a touch of sophistication. Continue the exploration, and Farrell's picks include The Great Frog London for edgy men's jewelry, Percival for curated clothes and accessories, Billionaire Boys Club for avant-garde fashion, and Aesop for vegan hair and skincare products. All within a mile radius, these establishments cater to the modern man's diverse tastes.
When Farrell sets her sights on unique interior design objects, she navigates to Tom Dixon in Coal Drops Yard, emphasizing a fusion of modern design and artistic expression.
Shifting focus to homewares, Farrell acknowledges the timeless appeal of Selfridges on Oxford Street. Despite its status as a cliché, Selfridges remains an unrivaled destination for luxurious interiors, boasting an exceptional selection of contemporary coffee table books, candles, and bed linen. Founded in 1909, Selfridges continues to captivate with its opulent offerings.
As the holiday season blankets London in festive cheer, Farrell appreciates the city's winter charm, emphasizing the lights, carol singing, and cozy pubs that make it truly special. For those navigating the bustling crowds in December, Farrell's advice is to take the time to relish the ambiance and seek refuge in a warm pub, savoring the unique charm that winter brings to her beloved hometown.
In the pursuit of distinctive and sumptuous upholstery, Remy Farrell, the fashion-forward shopping editor at Who What Wear, takes us on a curated journey through London's East End. Nestled in East London, the House of Hackney beckons with high-end interiors and lifestyle offerings housed within a Victorian-era clergy house, adding a touch of grandeur to your home.
For bespoke fabrics that tell a story, Farrell recommends Colours of Arley on Hackney Road, where personalized touches and craftsmanship meet. Further east, The Spotlight Market in Lower Clapton captivates with its array of incredible furniture, turning your home into a showcase of unique finds.
Venturing into North London, Farrell explores a haven for interior décor enthusiasts, touting its brilliance for antiques and flea markets. British luxury brand Tom Dixon's presence in Coal Drops Yard becomes a beacon for those seeking innovative lighting and extraordinary interiors. As you wander down Camden Passage in Islington, Farrell suggests uncovering the charming nooks and crannies that add a delightful character to your shopping experience.
Transitioning to beauty and self-care, Covent Garden emerges as a sanctuary where traditional chemist shops meet cutting-edge beauty buys. Farrell highlights the allure of Seven Dials, a neighborhood with quaint charm, featuring Neal's Yard Remedies and Kiehl's for a rejuvenating facial experience. As you approach Covent Garden Piazza, an array of luxury beauty brands awaits, including Glossier, Parfums De Marly, MAC, Tom Ford, and NARS, all within a stone's throw of each other.
For vintage aficionados and bargain hunters, Farrell's keen eye turns towards the vibrant landscape of East London, Kensington, and Chelsea. East London, in particular, becomes a treasure trove for kilo sales, sample sales, rentals, and upcycled fashion – a haven for those seeking unique pieces with a story to tell.
In Remy Farrell's curated exploration, every corner of London becomes a canvas for elevating your home, personal style, and self-care routine. Join her on this artistic journey where each discovery is a testament to the city's rich tapestry of creativity and innovation.
Embark on a quest for unique gifts with Remy Farrell, the tastemaker and shopping editor at Who What Wear, as she unveils the secrets of the West End and East London for finding the perfect presents. When seeking one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, Dalston becomes a haven with Beyond Retro, and Stoke Newington's Hackney Flea Market and East London Vintage Kilo Sale promise unexpected gems, all endorsed by Farrell as top thrifty haunts.
For those in pursuit of designer bargains, Farrell points to the Kensington and Chelsea area as the ultimate destination for charity shopping. Here, high street shops like Oxfam and Cancer Research unveil a curated collection, ranging from Zara to Chanel.
When the season calls for gift-giving, Farrell's go-to recommendation is the iconic Liberty London on Great Marlborough Street. Nestled in striking Tudor revival architecture, Liberty offers a unique shopping experience, perfect for finding special jewelry or indulging in exceptional beauty brands. For those with edgier tastes, Farrell directs attention to music shops like Rough Trade East and Vintage Vinyl in Brick Lane, along with Glassworks London boutique in Shoreditch, catering to friends and family who appreciate independent fashion brands and a musical vibe.
Navigating the bustling winter holidays, Farrell suggests starting the gift-hunting adventure early to avoid the chaos of last-minute shopping. Steering clear of Oxford Street and Westfield Shopping centers due to unbearable congestion, she recommends exploring lower Regent Street for slightly quieter branches of popular chain stores.
Amidst the holiday cheer, Farrell's personal pick for Christmas presents is the historic Fortnum & Mason, London's oldest department store dating back to 1707. Despite the bustling crowds, the festive ambiance and the allure of the food hall make it a magical experience. Farrell, with her distinctive taste, enjoys crafting her own mini hampers for a touch of personalized charm.
Uncover the hidden treasures of London with Remy Farrell's gift-giving guide, where each recommendation is a carefully curated gem, ensuring your presents are as unique and memorable as the vibrant city itself.
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