Today, I want to write to you about London retail!
As a retail specialist, obsessed with customer experience, there's a special spot in my heart for stores. Okay, and I really enjoy shopping, some could say it's a sport I've been perfecting for the past 20 years (yikes, I feel old!).
Since arriving, London has introduced me to many new stores. They are too delightful to keep to myself, and I can only hope some of them make the hop across the pond to Toronto by the time I move back.
5. Argos
Full disclaimer - I live above an Argos and the insane convenience factor is a big part of the charm - but not the only reason it's on this list, obviously. Argos offers the old school method of catalogue shopping, modernised for the way of the future. Walk into store and there is no merchandise. Seriously, it's a storefront full of anchored iPads that is always packed full of people buying random things that appear magically from behind the service desk as soon as the order is placed. Why don't we have one of those in Canada?!
4. Sweaty Betty
Have you heard of Lululemon? Sweaty Betty is London's response to female-centric athletic wear, mixed with an irresistible balance of fashion and function. The prints and colours seem a lot brighter and eccentric than Lululemon, but ££ prices are actually better than Lululemon (or at least very comparable). And their fitness classes out of the store are complimentary, feature a mix of ballet, yoga, pilates, and HIIT, (among others) but are so in demand here I have yet to book a spot.
3. Paperchase
Basically a Michael's alternative for Millennials. Full of beautiful prints, extensive crafting supplies, gorgeous paper, and whimsical stationary. The perfect haven for any crafty, creatively inclined, or design-savvy person. I think I have to shop here more often, because the first (and only) time I went into this store I was in a rush, way too excited/overwhelmed, got a sense of the immense paper goods selection and almost fainted from joy. Then I had to leave. Immediately. My wallet is still super grateful for that sudden departure, and is wary of me going near another Paperchase for the time being.
2. Tiger
I reckon* that "Ikea Lite" is the best way to describe Tiger. They're both Swedish, each use a rigid path for flowing consumers through all their sections - except Tiger doesn't allow any shortcuts. But why would you want to take a shortcut?? This store is chockfull of colourful, well designed, hilariously specific, and sometimes plain weird products. They span outdoor, seasonal, board games, beauty products, home decor, tupperware, among many other sections**.
1. Oliver Bonas
I've never seen so many beautiful things in one place! While the one-off indie boutiques I love certainly showcase beautifully curated collection, there's usually only one or two shops in a city. Oliver Bonas has multiple locations all throughout London, making it easy and convenient. Looking for a stunningly simple gold necklace? Check! Want a super, ultra, tightening/brightening/exfoliating/hydrating face mask that comes in pretty packaging? Done deal! Need a chic greeting card for your bestie that sums up how much you love her in a quirky illustration and cheeky slogan? You've come to the right place! Though a little pricey, depending on what you're shopping for, it's a beautiful store to browse and has some truly unique wares.
*This is one of many new British words I love! I'm attempting to compile a list of other top used words that I can share with you soon...
**I owe you a feature on all the cool things I've bought from Tiger since moving here. Trust me, you won't believe your eyes.... (Okay, maybe now I've hyped it up a little too much. But stay tuned and you can be the judge haha)
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