London offers plenty of awesome shopping destinations for anyone who’s interested in variety, luxury or quirky. You can easily spend an hour, an afternoon or a whole day walking from shop to shop or exploring shopping malls. We put together a list of stores that offer the most interesting selections and experiences in London.

Liberty

Founded in 1875, Liberty has long been and continues to be a driving force in London fashion. In fact, they were one of the first retailers to import fabrics from all over the world, a unique selection for which they’re still known. Its extensive the epicentre of London’s retail scene are currently on display at the Dovecot Gallery until January 2019.

Liberty’s ground floor also offers some of the best beauty products you’ll find in the city. The timbers used to construct the Tudor revival building, which is the Liberty Department Store, also speak volumes about its place in history.

Harrods

Harper’s Bazaar described Harrods best when they called it “the epicentre of London’s retail scene”. There are over 300 departments in this iconic five-acre shopping centre, making it a tourist destination in its own right. This includes mini pop-up boutiques like Chanel, Tiffany, Dior, and Cartier. And since both the permanent and temporary stores change themes every three months or so, there’s always something new to discover.

You’ll find a variety of things, from evening gowns to cocktail dresses, the latest style of denim to stellar pairs of sneakers and top-notch accessories and beauty products.

Ooh-La-La

The chic, second-hand world of Ooh-La-La is a must-see for anyone who loves unearthing antique, bohemian gems. Treasures from the 1900s onwards are scattered throughout the shop – a mix of vintage, decorative finds to more lamps, chairs, and tables with which you can furnish your apartment. Located in Lower Holloway, Ooh-La-La is just a couple minutes away from the gargantuan 60,000-person capacity Emirates Stadium.

Those who are on the lookout for the best discounts will be happy to know that at Ooh-La-La, prices have been known to drop – so long as you ask nicely. Flex your negotiating muscles and get that dresser that you’ve always wanted for your bedroom.

Dover Street Market

Dover Street Market, or DSM, is the concept store, founded by Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons and her husband, Adrian Joffe, celebrates creativity and commerce in non-traditional retail principles. Streetwear collides with luxury and up-and-coming designers are placed side by side with established brands.

There are also rotating installations and DSM recently teamed up with designer and traditional knitwear fanatic Joost Jansen to create a new in-store piece that demonstrated knitting techniques Jansen uses in his own label.

There are plenty of luxury shops in London, but Dover Street Market carries itself with an artistry that translates into a unique boutique experience for its customers.

by Nicki Young