Top British designers
Burberry
One of the most high profile British brands, Burberry (www.burberry.com/Home.aspx) has been imitated worldwide, but there are very few designs as famous as the Burberry check. Now a high fashion leader with the Prorsum label, Burberry will always be most famous for its classic trench coat.
Jasper Conran
A bit of an institution these days, Jasper Conran (www.jasperconran.com) offers beautifully classic garments as well as homeware, jewellery, perfume and a more affordable range of designs for Debenhams. This label provides fantastic smart-casual wear.
Stella McCartney
Britain’s hottest celebrity and owner of one of the UK’s most envied labels, Stella McCartney (www.stellamccartney.com/) has grown from strength to strength since leaving French fashion house Chloe. Her high street range made exclusively for Hennes sold out across the country within hours of hitting shop rails. However for classic Stella chic and a more relaxed browsing experience, visit the Bruton Street flagship store.
Paul Smith
The king of British men’s fashion, Sir Paul Smith (www.paulsmith.co.uk)’s label celebrates classic British tailoring injected with a twist. The trademark bright patterned shirts and loud cufflinks, wallets and accessories are instantly recognisable. Pop into Paul’s for fun shopping and great men’s gifts.
Rigby & Peller
Her Majesty’s corsetiere have been in business since 1939. All you need is the right bank balance. You, like former client Princess Diana, can have exactly the right bra as the company prides itself on its expert fitting service. Rigby & Peller (www.rigbyandpeller.com) offer a bespoke service and also carry an impressive collection of ready to wear lingerie and swimwear.
Pringle of Scotland
Thanks to a new creative director and slick celebrity-filled advertising campaigns Pringle of Scotland (www.pringle-of-scotland.com) are no longer famous for just producing golf jumpers, however devotees of Pringle’s signature diamond pattern shouldn’t panic, it hasn’t disappeared it’s just been updated.
Vivienne Westwood
The pioneer of the punk look, the amazing Vivienne Westwood (www.viviennewestwood.co.uk/flash.php) is now part of the international fashion elite and has become something of a national treasure. Her designs are immediately recognisable for their immaculate cut, eccentric design and voluminous use of fabric, which is frequently her trademark tartan.