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» Neighborhood Shops London
From world-class art to locally designed jewelry, we’ve tracked down the best shopping in the world’s coolest cities. Find that last-minute holiday gift, or take home something memorable for yourself.
The Draw: Even if you don’t buy anything (and a lot of its visitors don’t), a stop at Harrods is an experience that no shopping spree in the capital would be complete without. The Scene: As department stores go, London’s World-famous emporium is downright opulent, and sells pretty much everything to boot. The lavish décor and grandeur of the food hall may well give it a museum-like feel, but the technology is cutting-edge and the fashion fresh off the catwalks. Hot tip: For those gotta-have-it moments, literally anything can be purchased via the “by appointment” personal shopping service.
Fortnum and Mason 181 Picadilly, W1, St. James, 020.7734.8040 fortnumandmason.com
The Draw: As quintessentially British as the teas it purveys, Fortnum and Mason is a cornucopia of epicurean delights that’s been unmatched for centuries. The Scene: Whether you’re after the finest Earl Grey or a spot of horseradish sauce, Fortnum’s has it all and then some. It’s hardly the place for Londoners’ weekly shop, but is packed out with foodies and gift shoppers nonetheless. It’s where the Queen, perhaps, would pop in for a pint of milk if she didn’t have hundreds of staff waiting on her. Hot Tip: If you can’t live without that little luxury you’ve fallen for, you’ll be pleased to know they deliver to the States.
Rellik 8 Golborne Rd., Notting Hill, W1, 020.8962.0089 relliklondon.co.uk
The Draw: Stylists’ favorite, Rellik has the fa-bu-lous blend of vintage clothes that only London could come up with. The Scene: Hand-picked by the sartorially savvy owners, the 1920s to 1980s garments and accessories here are true finds. With items from the serious labels—Chanel, Christian Dior, YSL, Vivienne Westwood, and the like—on offer, this is the kind of shop to make your fashionista friends green with envy. Hot tip: Saturday afternoons are best avoided, unless you happen to be a fan of crowds.
