In some areas of the capital you have to search hard for luxury shopping outlets. In others luxury is yours at every corner and on every street, a retail therapy dream for anyone who loves the ultimate in iconic labels. Iconic is the name of the game in Mayfair, one of the world’s most expensive districts. The houses cost a fortune, the restaurants are exclusive, the bars are world class, the art galleries are to die for. And the shopping opportunities are quite simply epic. If the finest shopping in the world is on your list, visit Mayfair.
Whether you have lots of lovely cash to splash out or you’ll be mostly window shopping in Mayfair, it’s ab fab. Shopping in Mayfair is always elegant, endlessly sophisticated and – dare we say it – comes with a lovely dash of London eccentricity, which adds spice and personality. This place isn’t at all soulless. It’s fun and funky even though it comes with a huge price tag. There are oodles of independent shops selling everything from stunning hand-made footwear to haute couture and luxurious off-the-peg.
The place is stuffed with exclusive household name designers of shoes, clothing, furniture, interiors and more. The district’s bridal shops are almost too delicious and delightful for words, a fantasy made real. Here’s where you’ll find the most costly make-up, spa treatments, hair artistry and cosmetic procedures.
Big-name luxury labels sit next to unique boutiques. The antique shops are full of actual treasures, not just interesting junk. Some of the city’s oldest and most respected auction houses, including Phillips and Sotheby’s, are based here, purveyors of rare antiques and collectables from home and around the globe. The jewellery displays in the windows will blow your mind, let alone your bank account. You could spend a million in a day and nobody would bat an eyelid in Mayfair. Big-spending is the name of the game.
Think John Rocha and Vivienne Westwood, the British perfumier Floris, and the respected international brand Burberry. Picture racks of masterpieces by Rick Owens and Alessa Rich, Oscar De La Renta and Joseph and Co, Kenzo and Gucci. And don’t forget classics from Stella McCartney, Philip Plein, and Yohji Yamamoto. Oh, and don’t forget to pick up a pair of Jimmy Choos while you’re here.
Mayfair also has its fair share of shopping malls, but they come with a difference. There are no high street favourites to interrupt the luxury flow. Just independent, unique luxury outlet after outlet, each packed with stunningly lovely and stylish things created by talented people. Burlington Arcade is worth a visit all by itself. Walk from end to end and you’ll emerge stacked with bags full of treats and goodies.
Treat yourself to top British tailoring at the Paul Smith Sale Shop. Rummage your way through Grays antique centre, home to one of the best collections of antique jewellery in the whole of Europe. Fall in love with antique grandfather clocks at Pendulum of Mayfair, and with the contemporary masterpieces at Flowers Gallery. Then find a local restaurant, sit down, chill for a while, and examine your purchases. Was that fun? We bet you’ll want to do it all again!