It is often said that no trip to London is truly complete without beholding the majestic Big Ben. I say otherwise. Alongside New York, Milan and Paris, London forms an integral part of the big four fashion capitals of the world. The city is lined with exquisite brands that are known for haute couture and producing the latest in fashion. If you're someone whose ideal day involves lugging shopping bags that are full of your favourites – here are all the shopping arenas that you must visit in London.
Why this is the ideal time to visit London:
London is known for its dreary weather, but summer brings out the best of this city. The days are full of charm and the nights are magical, transporting you to an Austenian world. In addition, Virgin Atlantic offers daily, direct flights to London. This seamless connectivity makes a trip to London ever so convenient. So make this a summer to remember and book your tickets for the best shopping experience of your life.
Here's where you can shop till you drop!
Dating back to the 12th century, Oxford Street is home to roughly 300 shops that make it the busiest street in all of Europe! The street is so famous for shopping that it receives a footfall of about half a million visitors every single day. Needless to say, this bustling street is ever-effervescent and brings you the best brands of the world.
Highlights: Stores such as Primark, Marks and Spencer, Selfridges, Reiss, French Connection, Hugo Boss, Levi's, Zara, H&M enliven the street. In fact, most of these brands have their flagship stores here in Oxford Street. These are mid-range stores, so you can surely spend to your heart's content and return with a completely new wardrobe.
Timings: 11.00 am - 8.00 pm
This is one of the most exclusive landmark destinations of London. It is renowned for being the most expensive area, not just in London but in the whole wide world! While plush houses and gourmet restaurants will attract your attention, it is Mayfair's luxuriant shopping scene that is a must experience. Not everyone will be able to afford shopping in Mayfair, but you must take a tour around this posh arena nonetheless.
Highlights: You will find a perfect balance of the ancient and modern at Mayfair. Explore the legendary Carl Hansen & Son store or behold the gorgeous collection of luxury brands such as Christian Louboutin, Balmain, Louis Vuitton and Paul Smith, to name a few. If you can't get enough of watching celebrities in couture, a visit to these stores will leave you even more bedazzled.
Timings: 10.00 am onward
This is a pedestrianised shopping arena that is ideal for the rare sunny days of London. Bright days in London don't come often, but when they do, the last thing you'd want to do is waste it away shopping in a closed space such as a mall. This is a colourful street that bursts to life by night with its enchanting lighting and decoration.
Highlights:
Carnaby brings together hundreds of international and British heritage labels, boutiques, jewellery designers, as well as health, beauty, technology and home products. This street is a great place to discover new brands and unique styles to up your fashion quotient.
Timings: 10.00 am - 7.00 pm.
Situated in west London, this is the most popular shopping mall in the city. A major reason for Westfield's popularity is the wide range of budgets that it caters to. Especially if you want to escape the crowds of Oxford Street and shop in absolute peace, Westfield is the place for you. With all major brands under one roof, this is a one-stop-shop for all your shopping needs.
Highlights: For budget shoppers, stores like H&M, Levi's, Primark and Zara are available. The stock here is fresh and completely different from what you get in India. For those willing to spend more, there's Coach, Burberry, Jimmy Choo, Ted Baker, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Prada and many more! In addition, you can go on a food tour across the mall as it offers a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Timings: 10.00 am - 10.00 pm
If you want to experience the London that you've read about in books, head to Old Spitalfields market. This is a flea market where you can purchase antique crafts and fashion. However, what stands out most is its rustic ambience that lends to it an old world charm.
Highlights: This market is ideal if you want to buy jewellery, leather goods, vintage-wear, handmade garments and even hats and sunglasses! The vendors hail from all around the world, so you can enjoy a multi-cultural experience as you shop. Moreover, Old Spitalfields is also known for its delectable range of cuisines that are on offer. Try dishes from Spain, Italy or different innovations of food from closer home!
Timings: 9.00 am - 5.30 pm
If you think that flea markets are all about chaos and confusion, you need to visit Vinegar Yard, a flea market that will change your perception forever. This is a picturesque market that offers everything antique and vintage.
Highlights: Here, you will find things that look right out of Pinterest. Exclusive products from all around the world – everything from cameras, furniture and books to dresses, watches and jewellery are widely available at Vinegar Yard. Take your time to browse through the market as every piece here is no less than art.
Timings: 11.00 am onward
So it's time you unleash the shopaholic in you and book yourself a summer in the fashion capital of the world!
So, what are you waiting for? Book your flight here and take off immediately.
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In association with Virgin Atlantic.