Hidden Treasures: the Places to Shop!
"The quickest way to know a woman is to go shopping with her” -- Marcelene Cox
My mother always said that everyone has at least one natural talent. If this is true, then mine is clearly shopping. It is not a talent for bargain hunting that I possess (although my bank manager suggests that it should be); rather, it is my skill for finding unique pieces at surprisingly affordable prices. As a relative newcomer to London (8 years), it took some detective work to source out such shops. But, over the years, I have managed to discover some truly wonderful shops which, season after season, acquire gorgeous collections!
The Vestry is one of these shops. Located on Kings Road in Chelsea, this shop is the place to go for the perfect dress! With prices ranging from under £20-50, it is easy to walk out with 5 or 6 new styles for under £100! Despite the extremely affordable prices, the quality of the pieces does not give it away! What makes the clothes particularly special is that each piece is designed to highlight the body’s curves. Over the weekend I visited this beloved shop and found that the S/S 09 collections are wonderful! From lace, backless mini dresses to whimsical floral maxi dresses, this summer you can afford to get a dress for any occasion. Whether it is a garden party or a club night, you will have no trouble finding a dress here.
Shop online at The Vestry or 120 Kings Road Chelsea, London
The first time I walked into Tofu Fashion in Covent Garden, my heart began beating fast and loud; I was sure the other customers could hear it! The collection was stunning, innovative, and best of all, affordable. Tofu is filled with flirty, frilly and funky fashions. It is the kind of shop in which you are sad upon leaving because you cannot walk out with everything. Plus, as the shop has a very quick turnover. It is worth a weekly visit! Tofu is my personal go to shop for instant wardrobe revitalisation!
I recently purchased this chic Audrey Hepburn inspired Trench Dress featuring a caped back. It is perfect for a rainy spring day in London or anywhere else. It looks wonderful dressed up with a pair of sassy heels, but equally as fabulous with a pair of ballet flats (I love to wear it with my black Chanel flats)! As soon as I put it on. I am transformed into Holly Golightly. I just need Paul (George Peppard) and Cat!
Shop online at Tofu Fashion or 38 Earlham Street London WC2H 9LH
Strawberry Kats is a new brand and a new find for me. However, it is quickly establishing itself as the brand to know! The line is brimming with fresh, feminine unique pieces with a bit of an edge. Plus, the pieces can be easily mixed and matched! Moreover, the Company is environmentally conscious. I recently bought a lovely frill top and paired it with their monochrome stripe high waisted skirt and a red belt. Not surprisingly, it came together perfectly! The Strawberry Kats collection can be purchased online and at Topshop Oxford Circus. Can’t wait until it opens a Flagship store.
Strawberry Kats is sold in Topshop Oxford Circus.
As spring becomes summer, not only does the plant life blossom, so too does the fashion scene. Whether you are a girl on a budget or just looking to add pizzazz and style to your wardrobe, you can find what you are looking for at these trendy shops. I know I will!