Topshop Secret Store (London, UK)

Anyone who's been to Topshop's London flagship on Oxford Street (and possibly NYC's equivalent), will know that it can be a scary scary place. Unless you go first thing in the morning or shortly before closing time, it's always packed - primarily with young teens and eager tourists. Despite my courage when it comes to tackling crowds (using public transport in rush hour, braving mosh pits/front rows in rock concerts & festivals or fighting my way through designer sample sales), my tolerance when it comes to the bustle within the fluorescent-lit, windowless space is surprisingly low. So when I was told that Topshop had launched a special pop-up 'Secret Store' - which was hidden away from the rest of the retail area and that promised to evoke the charms of a treasure trove - I was both skeptical and intrigued.

'Wild At Heart' Florist by Meadham Kirchhoff & the hidden entrance to the Secret Store.

More from the floral display (left) and the flowers leading the way to the store (right).

The small potted plants and flowers included cute adornments, such as the eyes (top). Left image via Topshop.

To make matters more challenging, I decided to visit on Saturday, since I happened to be in the area. Thankfully the store was less busy than expected, and following the floral footprints to the lower level, I was lead to the beautiful 'Secret Store' entrance that doubled as a florist. This gorgeous 'Wild At Heart' floral arrangement was curated by Meadham Kirchhoff, who had also taken it upon themselves to hand paint flower pots and choose the most adorable decor to add to certain plants. Everything was for sale and made a great souvenir if the pieces in the actual store were a little too pricey for your liking.

Overview of the Secret Store interiors (image via Topshop).

Topshop Boutique items in a wooden trunk.

Meadham Kirchhoff stacked rings and bracelets in a heart-shaped box.

Tearing myself away from the flora, I finally found myself inside the Secret Store, which was like stepping into a completely different world. Antique furniture was carefully placed around the small area, which held limited-edition one-off pieces from some of London's and New York's most renowned designers in collaboration with Topshop. On display were also sought-after items from the 'Unique' archives and the 'Boutique' range, as well as carefully selected trinkets.

Emma Cook lingerie.

Michael van der Ham velvet wedges displayed in a cabinet.

Nasir Mazhar hair accessories (left) and Pamela Love jewelry (right).

Some of the special designer goodies I spotted included the stacks of rings and bangles by Meadham Kirchhoff, which came in an embroidered heart-shaped box. Pamela Love's current collaboration pieces could be found in a cabinet nearby, while funky wedges by Michael van der Ham were displayed on plush velvet cushions. Some garments, such as Tom Scott's cropped tops hung from the walls like works of art. Others either had their own wardrobe space or were placed along the racks on the far side of the shop. The cozy changing room with the fringed lamp, gilded mirror and retro wallpaper was a nice touch as well and added to the vintage boutique vibe.

Topshop Boutique items among vintage decor and flowers.

The lovely changing room (left), Tom Scott tops (top) and more Pamela Love jewelry (right).

More trinkets including furry hats (left) and nail polish (right).

Aside from the fashion treasures within the store and the vibrant flowers in front of it, the best thing about the Secret Store was the enchanting atmosphere and the fact that you could actually escape from the chaos beyond its walls. The pop-up space will shut this week, so I urge you to go before it disappears. It's open exclusively in the Oxford Street branch and in NYC's Broadway flagship, but if you can't make it to either - don't worry: most items can be found in the online version of the Secret Store here.

Nasir Mazhar hair clips (left), Topshop Boutique crochet top (right).

Another view of the Secret Store (left), various gowns (top), Maria Francesca Pepe tank & jewelry and Ann-Sofie Back crochet top (right).

Liberty of London Boutique (London, UK)

I was recently browsing the A.P.C. collection with a friend, when she turned to me upon sighting the current season's floral dresses and asked "does the Liberty-print have anything to do with that London department store?". The question didn't bother me - I'm guessing a lot of people don't know, but the answer of course is a big YES. For some, Liberty might just be another department store - personally it's my favorite in the U.K., because of the building's architecture, great staff and good range of products. For many, it's also the company that gave us today's most popular print pattern.

How an East Anglian village inspired one of this season's prints. Click to enlarge (image: Liberty).

While the Liberty archive consists of hundreds and thousands of different fabric designs - the company was founded in 1875, so you can imagine how large their back-catalogue must be - every season the Art Fabric design team will come up with new patterns which are based on architecture, nature and research conducted on everyone from children to sports commentators. The fabric can then be bought by consumers to create anything they need, whether it's pillow cases or skirts.

Left: Kate Moss for Topshop, wearing Poppy and Lilabell. Right: swatches of the Topshop Liberty-prints (images: Topshop).

Most recently the Liberty-print has graced Nike shoes, Cacharel's current collection and a few A.P.C. items not to mention Kate Moss' Topshop collaboration. Such is Kate's love for these prints, she decided to borrow from three classic Liberty designs to create Kate Nouveau, Poppy and Lilabell (named after her daughter). "Whilst researching the spring range we looked at loads of old prints and most of my favorites originated from the Liberty archive" says Moss. The next brand to feature the popular prints will be Theory, who are set to launch a more western-themed collection this Fall.

From top left: Cacharel, A.P.C., Theory, Nike and Topshop's Kate Nouveau

(images: Liberty)

But the true master of the Liberty-print is of course Liberty itself, who in 2005 launched its own luxury clothing, accessories and home decor brand. 'Liberty of London' draws on Liberty's heritage and operates under the creative direction of Tamara Salman (formerly of Romeo Gigli and Prada). Last year, the first standalone Liberty of London boutique opened on Sloane Street, which caters to nothing but the flowery print. I was intrigued by the idea, but never got the chance to visit until this year.

Liberty likes to call this boutique a 'concept store' though essentially it is a two-storey shop that sells nothing but clothing and accessories. If you are color-shy or have an aversion to anything patterned, this probably isn't the place for you. Upon entering the luxurious interior of the store - imagine lots of gold walls and crystal chandeliers - I was greeted by bright vivid hues everywhere. I love the Liberty-print and think it's a timeless design, but nothing prepared me for the colorful pattern overload. While the Liberty department store has the items somewhat spread out, seeing the pieces in such a confined space gave me the impression I had just walked right into a rainbow.

Left: Current season Cacharel. Right: Liberty of London bags

I was happy to see that the boutique also stocked items by other brands. The first rack held a nice selection of the current Cacharel range, but the main attractions are the Liberty of London pieces. A three meter long 'scarf bar' graced most of the right side of the store with various shawls and silk scarves in every color imaginable. Bags and purses occupied the shelves behind it, some made of leather and surprisingly pattern-free, others made of canvas displaying the iconic print.

The 'scarf bar'

Further along, I found a table filled with items I never knew I needed but immediately wanted: Liberty-printed eye masks, cosmetics bags, jewelry cases, stationary, silk house slippers and satin pouches filled with scented lavender. Very girly but not as kitschy as you might imagine. In the opposite corner, glass cases displayed some nice jewelry - some were silver and more low-key, others featured bright floral designs.

Boy, do I regret not getting that eye mask... Right: necklaces featuring bugs and flowers

The back area showcased the brand's own clothing range which is slightly more expensive. Most of the dresses and tops are made of silk, but you'll also find some cashmere cardigans or fine knit tops. The most recent addition to the line are swimsuits and bikinis in the most perfect summery colors and designs.

Liberty of London's own collection of clothing

Men should head to the top floor, where they'll find an assortment of ties, bags, shirts and anything else a guy might need. The menswear line is much more subtle compared to the ladies, so if you're a gal who's not embracing florals fully, you might want to pick out a souvenir from this collection instead.

Menswear on the top floor (image: Liberty)

One thing I do have to note is that the Liberty-print is also part of the interior design, but doesn't actually compete with the products. The stucco ceilings and black and white glass-beaded wall decorations all featured the prints, but these actually complimented the items instead of distracting from them.

If you're a Liberty-print fan, this store is a must. It's conveniently located a few steps away from Harvey Nichols so you'll probably end up in the neighborhood anyway. If you're wary about seeing too many patterned pieces, I would suggest you head to the Liberty department store, which is equally (if not more) impressive and houses a large number of other high-end designer pieces as well. And if you're sitting at home with a sudden urge to buy a Liberty-printed anything, I'd recommend you visit their online shop which sells the majority of their collection, in addition to items by other brands.

(individual images: Liberty)

Address: 197 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9QX
Opening Hrs: Mon-Sat: 10:00-19:00
Liberty Homepage & Online Shop

Topshop Flagship Store (London, UK)

I know I'm not exactly revealing a shopping secret by mentioning Topshop, but here's me stating the obvious: never leave London without visiting this high street flagship - the biggest in the world. Even Topshop haters (the few that exist) will most likely spend hours here. A firm favorite among all fashionistas, the Oxford Circus branch not only boasts its own entire range of clothing and accessories, but a multitude of other brands and collaboration lines. The entire ground floor is a dream-come-true for those addicted to accessories - with bags, scarves and belts in every color and style imaginable. A gift and candy section can be found in the back area while different jewelry counters (including fair-trade brands such as "Made") occupy the center of the floor. Topman can be found one level up.

The first lower level is just as dangerous shopping-wise. This is where most of Topshop's own brand of apparel is available - from jeans to evening wear. Everything I saw hit every SS09 trend you could think of (tribal, nautical, neutrals...) mixed in with basic classics for either a casual or elegant look. On the same floor you'll also find the Boutique, which features collaborations with upcoming designers. Prices here are steeper, although some might argue that most of Topshop's items are a bit pricy, but with the current exchange rate it's not really an issue. If you have time, you can also drop by the nail bar located nearby.

The lowest level is always my first stop when I need shoes or boots but don't really want to splurge on designer. The selection is outstanding with both Topshop's own brand as well as other retail brands (Kurt Geiger, Nine West, Faith etc.). This level is also where you'll find other clothing brands - such as Lipsy or Illustrated People - and a reasonabe vintage section.

(individual images: Topshop homepage)

Of course you can always save your money for the 09 Kate Moss collaboration, which will hit stores this spring (some featuring iconic Liberty prints) - stay tuned!

Address: 36-38 Great Castle St., W1W 8LG London
Opening Hrs: Mon-Sat 9:00-20:00, Sun 12:00-18:00
Topshop Homepage & Online Shop