Selfridges, London
Fashionistas have been flocking to London's first purpose-built department store since 1909. In 2010 it launched the Shoe Galleries, displaying 4,000 pairs and creating an art-cum-shopping extravaganza. selfridges.com
Barneys, New York
Open since 1923, Barneys is deemed the hipster alternative to Bloomingdale's (historic) and Saks Fifth Avenue (couture). Bring your platinum card — the labels in this shopping temple don't come cheap. barneys.com
GUM, Moscow
Pronounced 'goom', this palatial Russian 'mall' was built at the turn of the 19th century and opens onto the Red Square metres from its rival TSUM. Centred around a gorgeous fountain, the architecture is as beautiful as the merchandise. gum.ru
La Rinascente, Italy
Thai-owned but Italian-based 150-year-old department store chain specialising in affordable but high-end goods. Make for the rooftop of the Milan branch for unrivalled views of the city. rinascente.it
Galeries Lafayette, Paris
Opened in 1893 and designed in the style of a Middle Eastern Bazaar, Lafayette is Europe's largest department store and is famed for its 100-year old stained glass ceiling and sparkling fairy lights come Christmas time. galerieslafayette.com
Daslu, São Paulo
Haunt of the glitterati, this high-end boutique-style department store was responsible for introducing Brazil to international couture in the 1960s. It has its own helipad on the roof, yet is controversially situated next to one of São Paulo's most populated favelas. daslu.com.br
