MERCHANT ARCHIVE
It's worth abandoning the beaten path for this gem of a boutique in Queen's Park. Owner and vintage buyer Sophie Merchant has created a treasure trove of cutting-edge contemporary jewellery, designer frocks and beautiful vintage gowns, set against a backdrop of the original tiles and fittings of a Lipton general store.
What to buy Handpicked gowns.
Contact 320 Kilburn Lane, London W9 3EF (+44 (0)20 8969 6470, merchantarchive.com)
DARKROOM
Lamb's Conduit Street is where it's at and this brooding boutique is paving the way for sophisticated yet edgy retail in the area. Black-washed walls and graphic, modernist flooring serve as a striking, gallery-like backdrop to the gorgeous jewellery, accessories and homewares, lovingly chosen by owners and designers Lulu Roper-Caldbeck and Rhonda Drakeford.
What to buy A geometric, hand-knitted scarf by Shepherd England.
Contact 52 Lamb's Conduit Street, WC1N 3LL (+44 (0)20 7831 7244, darkroomlondon.com)
OLD HAT
Wannabe dandies should make the trek to this destination vintage menswear boutique in deepest Fulham, owned by the sartorial uncle of Chap magazine, David Saxby. Stock up on trilbies, bowler hats and frock coats.
What to buy A tweed blazer.
Contact 66 Fulham High Street, SW6 3LQ (+44 (0)20 7610 6558)
WOLF & BADGER
The idea behind this Notting Hill boutique is simple yet effective. The owners champion emerging designers from the best colleges and offer them a platform for their work, along with a list of manufacturing contacts. The result is a collection of covetable clothing, jewellery and accessories by up-and-coming names.
What to buy Anything by Natalie C.
Contact 46 Ledbury Road,
W11 2AB (+44 (0)20 7229 5698, wolfandbadger.com)
KATE KANZIER
This store has fast become an open secret for accessories lovers looking for bargains that don't scrimp on quality. Her leather footwear and bags come in delicious colours.
What to buy Go for a pair of her signature £30 brogues and you won't be disappointed.
Contact 67-69 Leather Lane, EC1N 7TJ (katekanzier.com)
