where to shop

"Remind me to go back for the boots I just saw in the Westwood window." - Edina Monsoon

There is no lack of shops throughout London that offer unique items you won't necessarily find in the US.  From big box department stores to smaller boutique shops, you're guaranteed to find something to share with loved ones.

The mother of all department stores in the middle of Oxford Street in Central London.  Offering everything from clothes to shoes to multiple restaurants and bars throughout as well as an amazing food hall, you can't go wrong at Selfridges.  You'll find items at all price points and will likely get lost at some point in the building.  

Sister (Brother?) stores, both locations are go-tos for your everyday items.  John resides on Oxford Street while Peter prefers Sloane Square, but both are equally fantastic department stores priced a bit lower than Selfridges.  I like to refer to it as the Nordstrom of London.  

The most luxurious department store you will ever walk into.  You probably won't buy anything, but the tudor building and decor inside will draw you in wishing you could.  Their signature patterns are great gifts for special occasions. And don't miss their haberdashery.

Think Rodeo Drive of London where you can find all the high end luxury boutiques and more.  Off the main Bond drag, don't miss the pedestrian alley South Molton for a lovely stroll without the hustle and bustle of people and cars.

World famous Harrods is a tourist destination where you'll likely be fighting crowds, but it has so much history that it's worth visiting.  At the very least, try to sit at one of the bars in the food hall to enjoy the magnificent people watching.

A fabulous grid of pedestrian only alley ways filled with trendy shops and restaurants off of Liberty.  It's always decorated for the current time of year and is a great stop when you are exploring Soho.

Especially known to Made in Chelsea fans, the Kings Road is the prime shopping and dining destination.  Home to Peter Jones, you'll find all the other great British shops and restaurants.  

Area off of famous Portobello Road in Notting Hill, Westbourne Grove has all the smaller high end shops and restaurants.  Great area to visit after the hustle and bustle of the Portobello Market over the weekend.  

Out in Hackney, this outlet is not your typical outlet store.  You'll think you are walking into a regular Burberry store, but the prices are significantly discounted and there are loads of options.  

Clothing store selling basics but with a twist.  All the clothes are good quality monochromatic, but with unique hem lines and styles.  

Think nicer target without the big detergent and pharmacy sections.  M&S is a staple for all Brits.  Prices are reasonable and quality is really good.  Don't skip the food hall in these stores.  You'll find all the good traditional British foods including Percy Pigs, pork pies and Colin the Caterpillar cakes.  

As great as Amazon and FTD flowers are, local gifts are just better.  Below are great options for when you want to shop local to make someone's day special.

The best flower delivery in England.  And prices aren't egregious.

Delicious and handmade "biscuits" (aka cookies) frosted for any and all occasions.  

The ultimate gift is a F&M hamper.  Custom hampers available at all price points and will never dissappoint.