As a lot of my time is spent shopping I often get asked where the best place is to find various bits and bobs. Following are a few recommendations for things that I have been asked about recently:

Pretty day time dresses – Oliver Bonas, not only does this shop have great dresses it has lovely affordable accessories, great gift ideas and gorgeous things for the home; http://www.oliverbonas.com/

Maxi Dresses – French Connection, Monsoon, Miss Selfridge and Top Shop all have a good selection.


Great swim wear – Heidi Klein on 174 Westbourne Grove, or 257 Pavillion Road, Sloane Square. This is like a one stop holiday shop with swimwear and kaftans, sarongs etc For sexy 50’s inspired swimwear check out Pistol Panties; http://www.pistolpanties.com/index.asp

Hats - Check out Lock Hatters for some fabulous hats! http://www.lockhatters.co.uk/

Sparkly beautiful accessories – There is an absolute treasure trove of crystal jewellery next door to Emma Hope just off Sloane Square, the jewellery in there really is amazing! It’s expensive but worth it for a special occasion. It’s called Basia Zarzycka - http://www.basia-zarzycka.com/index.asp. They have beautiful hair pieces if you are looking for an alternative to a hat.

Buttons – Button Queen , 19 Marylebone Lane, Marylebone, W1U 2NF . London’s only shop specialising in antique and modern buttons. Buttons are a great way of revitalising a piece of clothing.

Fabric – If you are looking for great fabric to make up an outfit then look no further than Berwick Street in Soho for a good selection.

Great simple T Shirts – Kettlewell Colours sell good quality tops in every style and colour possible. They work with image consultants such as myself so if you know what colours and necklines suit you then you can order them from there. The website is; http://www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk/ When placing an order please let them know I recommended you.

Maternity Wear – Topshop, Jojo Maman Bebe, Mama’s and Papa’s, Blooming Marvellous, Dorothy Perkins and Seraphine all have a good selection.

Jeans for curvy figures – I always find 7 for all Mankind and James Jeans are great for curves. You can find then online or in department stores such as Selfridges, Fenwicks or Harrods. John Lewis and House of Fraser stock 7 Jeans.

Large shoe sizes – Chiltern Street just off Baker Street in W1, London, is the best place to head for, there you will find: Crispins, Elephant Feet (unfortunate name!) and Magnus.