Bespoke - Shopping Supplement - 2017

- 2017 -

Curated city shopping itineraries for discerning travellers

Welcome

Whether you want to snap up some one-of-a-kind looks, discover top designers on their home turf, or get a wardrobe refresh for less by taking advantage of currency fluctuations – embarking on an overseas shopping trip is a must for all those who are serious about style. From London’s expert tailors to exquisite Parisian boutiques and New York’s impressive department stores, there are compelling reasons to jet off on a sartorial adventure.

To help keep you a step ahead in the style stakes, we’ve teamed up with American Express Middle East’s Platinum Concierge to bring you a curated guide to major shopping destinations around the world. Our handpicked selection of experts have rounded up the best hotspots and hidden gems, providing ample insider knowledge on the districts and shops worth exploring.

Of course, making sure you have easy access to your money while you’re away is top of mind and, with the American Express Middle East Platinum Card®, cardmembers can enjoy a wealth of extra benefits while on their travels. Style mavens are sure to be impressed by the exclusive invites to shopping experiences with top brands and sought-after designers including Matchesfashion.com, Barneys New York and Printemps. This is on top of access to personal shoppers, sneak previews of new fashion collections and a heads up about pre-sale events, as well as complimentary tailoring and delivery to your home or hotel at selected partners. All these distinctive extras are available at some of the top stores and leading luxury brands in the world’s most renowned shopping capitals.

Further to this, Platinum Cardmembers can call upon their very own Concierge for top tips on everything from the biggest and best department stores to must-see art exhibitions and great restaurants – you’ll find recommendations peppered throughout the magazine. All that’s left for you to do is enjoy the experience.

The plaTinum experience Highlighting the benefits of The Platinum Card® for jet set shoppers…

Stay connected Snap and share your best shopping moments as they happen thanks to complimentary membership to Boingo Wi-Fi services, which has more than one million hotspots worldwide.

No regrets Any eligible items bought that are stolen or accidentally damaged within 90 days are fully covered. If a retailer won’t take back an eligible item purchased on the card within 90 days, you will be refunded up to US$550.

Open doors to memorable moments Unforgettable starts here, American Express Invites® handpicks sought-after events for Platinum Cardmembers, turning those inspiring moments into lasting memories.

Whether it’s music, film, fashion or sport, American Express Platinum Concierge ensures you’re among the first to book with advanced tickets.

To find out more about the exceptional shopping benefits, visit the website at americanexpress.ae/wt

3 Welcome

Managing Director Victoria Thatcher Editorial Director John Thatcher Managing Editor Faye Bartle Art Editor Kerri Bennett Designer Jamie Pudsey Group Commercial Director David Wade

The conTenTs 06

london

By Lee Osborne, menswear consultant and style blogger

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paris

By personal stylist Stéphanie Tumba

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munich

By Bayerischer Hof’s Florian Weidenbach

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milan

By shopping expert Bianca Mirabela Chiejdan

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neW york

By international fashion artist Megan Hess

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la

By footwear designer Ashley Roberts

Production Manager Muthu Kumar

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madrid

By Rosa Fernández of Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques

22

shanghai

By Elle Lee, style influencer and celebrity personality

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hong kong

By Christie Simpson, freelance stylist

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singapore

By lifestyle blogger Edwina Viel

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excess baggage Top packing tips

on the cover:

Limited Edition: Versace – Floating in Versace print by international fashion artist Megan Hess. meganhess.com Photos courtesy of: ©Hilton Hotels & Resorts, The St. Regis Singapore, Four Seasons Hotels, ©2017 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Getty Images

Shop with confidence

Heading overseas? Shop like a local in any destination around the word thanks to this expert advice from American Express Middle East on travel money matters Summer holidays are just around the corner, and most people are looking forward to packing their bags and heading to cooler climes. Having access to the funds you need while keeping your personal banking information secure is important for peace of mind.

This is where credit and charge cards offer a convenient and safe solution.

You can use a card to make purchases and cash withdrawals in the local currency, so you won’t need to carry as much cash on you. Plus, if a card is lost or stolen, you may be able to get a replacement while you are still on your trip. It can also cover you in worst-case scenarios – American Express Middle East Cardmembers get a replacement

card within 48 hours and you will not be responsible for any fraudulent charges.

Read on for some top tips for keeping your finances in check while travelling…

List out handy numbers. Before you leave home, make a list of the international phone numbers of your card providers should you have any problems and need to speak to them.

These phone numbers are normally located on the back of your card.

Cut down on cash. Many places now accept cards for purchases of all sizes but if you do require cash, in many instances you can use your charge and credit cards to withdraw money. A top

tip is to take some local currency with you for when you arrive for incidental expenses such as gratuities.

Hold steady. When using a credit or charge card internationally, hotels and car rental companies often place a ‘hold’ on your card for anticipated charges. It will be released if you are not required to pay the charges, but you should be mindful of how it may impact your spending. Check your credit limit online while abroad to ensure you have access to the funds you believe should be available to you.

Do the math. Use a calculator app on your mobile device to quickly convert

5 promotion

local currency into your home currency to determine the exact price of an item.

This will help you stay on budget.

Manage your card on the move.

Manage your Card Account on the go with the mobile app provided by your issuer. American Express Middle East Cardmembers can monitor, manage and track account activities while also making bill payments from the app itself. When travelling, Cardmembers can view offers and privileges in their destination and place transaction alerts and even report a lost or stolen card.

Keep a paper trail. Keep all receipts and any documentation of overseas transactions in a safe place. Make sure your receipts are itemised if you are making multiple purchases at a single location. You may need this breakdown when you return through customs.

Swot up on allowances. Know what items are restricted by your country’s import regulations. If you buy something and are not allowed to bring it into the country, you may not be able to get a refund from the merchant.

Those with an American Express Middle East Platinum Card® will get a refund of the item or up to US$550.

Document your buys. Get a detailed list of any items being shipped to you back home – especially if you used your card for the purchase. It’s also a good idea to purchase insurance in case of loss, theft or damage. Your card may already have a purchase protection plan in place. Purchases made by an American Express Middle East Card are covered if stolen or accidentally damaged.

Protect your assets. Hire a professional appraiser to confirm authenticity when buying artwork, gems, antiques, antiquities or decorative objects. This offers peace of mind against buying counterfeit goods, which will be confiscated by customs officials. At the very least, have the merchant provide you with a written description of the item. The content should include the provenance, quality or grade, date and price.

get your VAT back. If you travel to a country with a Value Added Tax (VAT), which is similar to sales tax, you may be entitled to a refund if you are not a citizen of that country. VAT ranges from three to 20 percent or more, depending on the type of product, and is already included in the price. Bring your passport when you shop and tell the merchant before you charge an item that you are interested in VAT refund documentation. You’ll need to produce a sales receipt and the VAT documents at the airport before a refund will be processed.

FAST FACT

American Express Middle East Cardmembers may still use their magnetic stripe cards worldwide and sign to authorise transactions.

Simply present your card to the merchant for authorisation – even if the merchant’s terminal is set up for chip and pin, it will still accept magnetic stripe cards.

CrunCHing THe nuMberS

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Most ATMs have a daily limit on the amount of cash you can withdraw and you may face international withdrawal fees.

Make sure you know what your withdrawal total will be in your home currency, as it will impact the total you are able to withdraw.

Bear in mind that, in many countries, a comma is used instead of a decimal point. A price of 59.95 Euros may be denoted as €59,95 for instance.

Make sure that you and your journey are protected right at the outset for anything unexpected such as flight delays, lost baggage or illness. Check with your card issuer for the comprehensive travel insurance benefits on your card.

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Gaziano & Girling

T

his

Where to shop in…

London

Brush up on British style and tick the best department stores off your list Curated by Lee Osborne, menswear consultant and founding editor of popular men’s style blog Sartorialee, sartorialee. wordpress.com London melds the traditional with the contemporary so well. It has a wealth of heritage to draw upon and its variety of product is almost unrivalled. You can be in Dickensian Jermyn Street one minute and hip Dover Street Market the next.

Trunk shows and pop-ups are the new black for those in the know, with Instagram largely responsible for their rapid rise. Tailors and designers from around the globe descend upon the city to show their wares to a discerning clientele. Whether it’s a fitting for a bespoke suit or creating a last for handmade shoes, everyone from Marcus Malmborg to Stoffa and B&Tailor have unpacked their trunks in the capital’s hotels recently.

SECRET SPOT

Hackney Walk (hackneywalk.com), the outlet village housed under renovated Victorian railway arches in London’s trendy Eastern fringe. It has been open almost a year now, but remains under the radar, which I find surprising as they provide great floor space for brands such as Gieves & Hawkes, Aquascutum, Pringle and Matches Men. It deserves to do well so I don’t mind sharing it.

Thom Sweeney SS17

HOMEGROWN HEROES

I’m a big fan of the Thom Sweeney (thomsweeney.co.uk) silhouette, crafted by tailors Thom Whiddett and Luke Sweeney. The store in Mayfair’s Bruton Street is a treasure trove of must-haves, particularly the button down collar shirts. I also rate the Kettering-based Gaziano & Girling (gazianogirling.

com). Founders Tony Gaziano and Dean Girling plied their trade with several Northamptonshire shoemakers before joining forces in 2006. They’ve not been in business that long but have made huge strides since. Their shoes are exquisite. I have my eye on a pair of their gold-buckle Mayfair double monk straps in polo suede.

IN THE kNOW

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Drake’s. I love virtually everything that comes out of the Haberdasher Street workshop. Particularly their lavishly beautiful scarves and ties.

3 Haberdasher Street, East London. +44 (0)20 7608 0321, drakes.com

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kilgour. Creative director Carlo Brandelli continues to reinterpret the fundamental proportions and forms of Savile Row tailor Kilgour with emphasis on a modern, discreet purist aesthetic.

His garments draw influence from geometry, lending them a sculptural quality quite unlike anything else available on The Row. 5 Savile Row. +44 (0)203 283 8941, kilgour.com

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Suitsupply. Based at the southern extremity of Savile Row, it’s the kind of shop I walk in to and want everything from. The Dutch brand is ready-to-wear but the fit is great for me and can be easily adjusted by my tailor.

9 Vigo Street, Mayfair. +44 (0)203 308 9792, eu.suitsupply.com

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Fall into step with the well-heeled locals and head to king’s Road for a pleasing mixture of trendy boutiques, unique labels, designer shops and high-street staples. Be sure to stop by the Vivienne Westwood boutique, which inspired the punk movement in the 1970s.

7 LONDON

Where to stay

DUKES London. Nestled in the heart of historic St. James’s Mayfair, DUKES London is ideal for a quintessentially English stay. The property has teamed up with Hackett to offer an exclusive personal shopping experience, allowing guests to browse the latest Hackett collections from the comfort of their hotel room. dukeshotel.com

London Hilton on Park Lane.

Overlooking Hyde Park, this was the very first Hilton to open in the UK (in 1963). Its Mayfair location puts you close to top attractions including West End theatres, historic landmarks and famous shopping districts.

Dine at the Michelin-starred Galvin at Windows. hilton.com Fenwick of Bond Street

top department stores Fenwick of Bond Street. Shop the curated edit of British and international fashion, beauty and accessories from brands including Mother Of Pearl, Bella Freud, Kate Spade New York, MAC, The Ordinary and Charlotte Tilbury.

63 New Bond Street. +44 (0)207 629 9161, fenwick.co.uk

Liberty. “Liberty is the chosen resort of the artistic shopper,” according to Oscar Wilde. Opened by Arthur Liberty in 1875, you too can discover its Eastern Bazaar style legacy by browsing the collection of scarves, accessories and fabrics, plus designer fashion and homeware. Regent Street. +44 (0)207 734 1234, libertylondon.com

Selfridges. Named ‘Best Department Store in the World’ three times, Selfridges is the place to go for a fun-packed shopping excursion. The store was opened by Harry Gordon Selfridge, ‘the showman of shopping’, in 1909 and it has been a firm favourite ever since. 400 Oxford Street. +44 (0)113 369 8040, selfridges.com

Harvey Nichols. This iconic department store first opened in Knightsbridge in 1831. Today, it is renowned for its expert edit of fashion brands, where established labels sit alongside accessible everyday collections. It’s also great for beauty.

109-125 Knightsbridge. +44 (0)207 235 5000, harveynichols.com

Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square.

Book a signature suite at this five-star hotel, which provides easy access to the shopping highlights of The Square Mile, including The Royal Exchange – home to Hermés, Paul Smith, Smythson and Thomas Pink. fourseasons.com

8 LONDON Aquascutum, 24 Great Marlborough Street

Great British style

Get the London look by investing in some choice pieces from these much-loved Brit designers

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Vivienne Westwood Anglomania at matchesfashion.com

McQueen trainers at matchesfashion.com

Aquascutum

which is currently headed up by creative director Sarah Burton, who worked alongside McQueen for more than 14 years and received global recognition as the designer of the wedding dress for HRH the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine Middleton, for her marriage to HRH Prince William in April 2011. There is a store on Old Bond Street and Savile Row where you can shop the ready-to-wear, bags, shoes and accessories collections.

Last but not least, Aquascutum (aquascutum.com) has a 165-year heritage known for its distinctive house check and is a top choice for its trench coats and tailoring. We rate the new Voyager Essentials collection for men, which comprises three key products that every man should have in his wardrobe: a tailored slim fit suit, The Elwood, made from double twist yarn; the Blockely shirt; and the Voyager Trench Coat N.2.

All pieces can be folded up into a compact size, with minimal creasing, so are perfect for globetrotters. There are three stores in London, on Great Marlborough Street, Jermyn Street and at Westfield Shopping Centre.

Stella McCartney AW17

amed for bringing modern punk and new wave fashion into the mainstream Vivienne Westwood (viviennewestwood.com) is one of the most beloved British designers. Her flagship store on Conduit Street. is the place to go for a stand out piece. Her SS17 collection is inspired by the 1970s – think hippy culture and artistic movements – which is reflected in the choice of fabrics, prints and silhouettes.

Those with an eye for sustainable style should head to Stella McCartney (stellamccartney.com) who, as a lifelong vegetarian, does not use any leather or fur in her designs. Her signature style is sharp tailoring, with pieces that inspire confidence and femininity. Her collections include women’s ready-towear, accessories, lingerie, eyewear, fragrance and kids’ clothing and the brand is available at eight locations in the capital, including at 30 Bruton Street in Mayfair.

Guard against the British weather by investing in a classic trench coat from Burberry (burberry.com), which is available at numerous locations including 121 Regent Street.

Alternatively, adopt a distinctly confident feminine aesthetic at fashionistas’ favourite Victoria Beckham (victoriabeckham.com) at 36 Dover Street. The brand is also available in a number of department stores including Selfridges and Liberty.

Another coveted label is Alexander McQueen (alexandermcqueen.com),

Leather pouch, Galeries Lafayette A/W17-2018 Hermès AW17

The Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées

Where to shop in…

Paris

Home to a coveted selection of high-end brands, Paris is ideal for a très chic trip Curated by Stéphanie Tumba, a seasoned personal stylist and founder of shopping service Celest Lifestyle, celestlifestyle.eu The birthplace of many of the most coveted luxury brands on the planet, Paris is the ultimate destination for label lovers. The city is also home to the biggest names in beauty, watchmaking, leather goods and jewellery.

Shop like a Parisian by browsing the boutiques of Saint-Germain des Prés and stumble across unique pieces, or strut your way around Le Marais to discover emerging designers and uncover vintage thrift shops.

For a bespoke perfume blend, head to Stéphanie de Bruijn (parfumsurmesure.com) at 52 Rue de l’Université in the 7th arrondissement where, by appointment, you can create a scent to match your mood.

To step up your footwear, check out Alix de la Forest (alixdelaforest. com) at 29 Rue Lemercier, which invites shoppers to choose from myriad materials, prints and heel styles and a palette of 150 colours to create the shoe of their dreams.

Hermès AW17 Collection

SECRET SPOT

Beaugrenelle shopping centre (beaugrenelle-paris.com), located near the Trocadero and not far from the Eiffel Tower on Rue de Passy, is one of the most bourgeois destinations in Paris. It is excellent for high-end shopping and as a place to discover new local brands. Opened in 2013, it is favoured by locals but never too busy.

HOMEGROWN HEROES

Erotokritos (erotokritos.com), at 109 boulevard Beaumarchais, takes its

name from the creator Erotokritos Antoniadis. The couturier celebrates Parisian chic in a modern and colourful style, with collections for women, a line of ready-to-wear for men and a selection of accessories.

Suite 341 (suite341.com), at 38/40 Avenue des Gobelins, is a concept store that offers three designer brands – Sandro, Maje and Claudie Pierlo – in a single space. Just mix and match.

Also, Matières à Reflexion (matieresareflexion.com) at 19 Rue de Poitou has a range of bags created from vintage leather, as well as clothing, shoes, jewellery and trendy accessories.

IN THE KNOW

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Faubourg St Honoré. The Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré is one of the most iconic places for luxury shopping, lined with boutiques of the great couturiers such as Versace and Hermès.

Avenue Montaigne. Many major couture houses were first opened along this historic street in the 8th arrondissement. There, you can find boutiques such as Gucci, Prada, Lanvin, Cartier, Chanel, Valentino, Saint Laurent Paris and Dolce and Gabbana.

Avenue des Champs Elysées.

A symbol of Paris, this iconic two-kilometre-long avenue is lined with restaurants, luxury boutiques, and many flagship stores including Abercrombie & Fitch.

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Take a detour to Rue de Passy in the 16th arrondissement – one of the area’s busiest shopping streets. For budget buys, dive into Passy Plaza (passyplaza.com) which is home to 25 boutiques including Massimo Dutti, GAP, Zara Home and Monoprix.

11 PARIS

Where to stay

Ritz Paris. Freshly restored, this iconic property invites guests to rediscover the French way of life, with its richly decorated rooms and haute cuisine by chef Nicolas Sale.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the curated Ritz Paris Concept Store. ritzparis.com

InterContinental Paris – Le Grand. Centrally located, this luxury hotel offers views of Palais Garnier, which is home to Paris Opera. There are two acclaimed restaurants to try: the historic Café de la Paix and La Verrière, which is set in a beautiful winter garden. ihg.com

Galeries Lafayette

toP DePartment stores Galeries Lafayette. The Paris Haussmann store has been a Paris icon since its creation in 1894 and a must-visit venue in the capital. The department store, with its renowned Art Nouveau dome, offers 65,000 square metres of retail floor space dedicated to fashion, with more than 3,500 brands from around the world, ranging from affordable to luxury.

40 Boulevard Haussmann. +33 (0)1 42 82 34 56, haussmann.galerieslafayette.com Printemps. Offering a richly authentic Parisian shopping experience, an entire floor of the store is devoted to shoes, while the beauty department stocks more than 200 brands from

Chanel to Dior. Check out the summer concept store by Sarah Lavoine (open until 19 August). Rest your feet at the rooftop café, Le Déli-cieux, and enjoy wonderful views of Paris.

64 Boulevard Haussmann. +33 (0)1 42 82 50 00, printemps.com Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche.

The city’s oldest luxury department store, Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche in the 6th arrondissement gathers the most refined brands. The First Floor has an excellent selection of global designer labels, from Lanvin to Claudie Pierlot. Designer names also abound in Balthazar, the men’s section.

24 Rue de Sèvres. +33 (0)1 44 39 81 81, lebonmarche.com

Shangri-La Hotel, Paris.

Boasting a legacy as the former home of Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew, Prince Roland Bonaparte, this elegant property offers the royal treatment from the start.

Exclusive fashion designers on Avenue Montaigne and Avenue George V can be found just around the corner. shangri-la.com/paris

12 PARIS

French Flair

Christian Louboutin at matchesfashion.com

Master the art of chic dressing thanks to these fabulously French brands brimming with je ne sais quoi

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Dior Homme sunglasses at matchesfashion.com

Rouland Mouret at matchesfashion.com

Céline Fall 2017 Ready to Wear

For a masterclass in structure and draping, stop by Roland Mouret (rolandmouret.com), whose pieces are designed especially to flatter the female silhouette. Stockists in Paris include Gisele So’ at 50 Rue De Sevres, Joseph Montaigne at 14 Avenue Montaigne and Maria Luisa – Printemps at 64 Boulevard Haussmann.

Of course, that’s just the tip of the Eiffel Tower as there’s also Chanel, Céline, Isabel Marant, Givenchy, Lanvin, Saint Laurent and Chloé, plus many more brands to admire. For something off the beaten track, check out Maje Paris (fr.maje.com) – the Fall/ Winter 2017 collection is brimming with romantic dresses and flowing ruffle tops with punky touches like cropped jackets and leather mini dresses. There are six stores in Paris, including the one at 49 Rue Vieille Du Temple. Finally, check out The Kooples (thekooples. com) for a bohemian style update.

There are stores scattered across the city, including one at 191 Rue St Honoré.

Maje Paris FW 2017

SS17 The Kooples

Hermès AW17

hether you want to treat yourself to a classic silk scarf or splurge on a luxurious leather handbag, Hermès is adored for its exquisite fashion and accessories.

You can find stores in Paris at Faubourg Saint Honoré, Sèvres and George V. Look out for the Hermèsmatic pop-up concept – a fun, complimentary service that invites you to update your vintage Hermès scarves via washing machines and dip-dying.

If sleek silhouettes, an earthy palette and lots of leather appeal, then head straight to Balmain (balmain.com).

Creative director Olivier Roustein continues to breathe new life into its signature style military-inspired pieces with a tough, rebellious edge. The flagship boutique is located at 44 Rue François 1ER. For footwear, skip over to Christian Louboutin (christianlouboutin.com).

The shoes by the French fashion designer, with their trademark red soles, are a must for well-heeled individuals. Browse the beauty range, which incudes a striking rouge nail polish and lipstick to match those red soles. There are eight stores in Paris, including the one at 68 Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré.

Step into the world of Dior (en. store.dior.com) at the boutique at 30 Avenue Montaigne. As a leading name in women’s ready-to-wear in Paris, you can explore the collections and fashion accessories from belts and bags to scarves and shoes to create an elegant outfit. A selection of the women’s fashion Autumn 2017 collection, fronted

by Jennifer Lawrence, is now available at its boutiques. Men should head to Dior Homme – be sure to check out the sunglasses, which combine cuttingedge materials and sleek silhouettes.

13 MUNICH

Where to shop in…

mUnich Embrace variety by browsing international labels alongside traditional Bavarian gems Curated by Florian Weidenbach, concierge at Bayerischer Hof.

SECRET SPOT

Photo credit: Benjamin Monn

Beaugrenelle Eduard Meier (edmeier. de) is a traditional shoemaker and producer of hunting clothes and typical Bavarian dresses. Founded in 1596, the shop became a purveyor for the Bavarian royal family. Today, the familyrun store is still a well-known address for tailor-made shoes.

I can also recommend Apropos (apropos-store.com), a modern concept store that’s great for discovering innovative designer clothes and accessories from the likes of Dsquared2, Balmain and Jimmy Choo, among others. The shop is located at Promenadeplatz in the heart of Munich.

Hofstatt (hofstatt.info) is the latest inner-city shopping concept. It contains brands such as the local shoe house Thomas, Intimissimi, Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister.

IN THE KNOW

For great deals on high-end designer brands, head to outlet Schustermann & Borenstein, which has been around for more than 90 years. You need to be a registered member, or a guest at Hotel Bayerischer Hof. +49 (0)89 242 4100, schustermann-borenstein.de

Exterior view of Bayerischer Hof

Where to stay

top Department stores

Hilton Munich City.

Less than 10 minutes’ walk from the city centre, this handy hotel has spacious guestrooms and suites and four dining venues. hilton.com

Oberpollinger. A high-end department store that combines a wide variety of brands, from Fendi and Prada to Gucci and Dior, under one roof. Neuhauser Straße 18. +49 (0)89 290 230, oberpollinger.de

Sofitel Munich Bayerpost.

A charming five-star hotel based in a magnificent Wilhelmian building at the centre of the city. sofitel.com

Lodenfrey. The place to go for traditional Bavarian dress – Dirndl for women and Lederhosen for men. The yearly announced Dirndl sets the trend for the ladies, Wiesn style.

Maffeistraße 7. +49 (0)89 210 390, lodenfrey.com

Bayerischer Hof. Situated at the heart of Munich’s historic centre, this hotel boasts luxurious rooms and suites, five restaurants, a health and beauty oasis and topnotch entertainment. bayerischerhof.de

Fünf Höfe. This city centre mall comprises more than 14,000 square feet of shopping, art galleries and restaurants and is home to designer labels such as Baldessarini and Boggi Milano. Theatinerstraße 15. +49 (0)89 2444 9580, fuenfhoefe.de

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Head over to Maximilianstrasse, which is considered the most exclusive shopping street in the city.

There you will find numerous major international labels, including Aigner, Valentino, Gucci, Chanel and Louis Vuitton and more.

BOSS F/W 2017

Offering big names like Aigner and Hugo Boss, as well as local labels like Talbot Runhof, there is plenty to keep you on your feet in Munich. For bespoke items, head to Max Dietl (max-dietl.de), a haute couture fashion store offering high-end labels like Brioni, Kiton, Zuhair Murad and Alberta Ferretti. The focus is on tailor-made suits and shirts and there are some celebrities who come to Munich, especially to visit Max Dietl.

HOMEGROWN HEROES

No visitor can leave Milan without a Borsalino hat. Find yours at Borsalino Boutique (borsalino.com) at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II 92.

IN THE KNOW

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele

Where to shop in…

Milan

For a high fashion shopping break, Milan’s luxurious shopping gems are hard to beat Curated by Bianca Mirabela Chiejdan, a Milan-based personal stylist and fashion advisor. biancamirabela.com Milan is a fashion show – people actually wear what you see on the runway during Fashion Week. It’s the right place to come to see the latest trends and timeless style at its best.

Many styles reach London and New York a year after launching in Milan, so if you shop in Milan you’ll be up to date for a while. Of course, the city also has magnificent architecture, great food and perfect cappuccinos.

The most important area for luxury shopping is Quadrilatero d’Oro – Milan’s golden shopping rectangle.

Made up of four streets, it is a shopper’s dream. Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Manzoni and Via Sant’Andrea are the main stops for haute couture. There, you can find Armani, Prada, Versace and more.

Another obligatory stop for pure fashion is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele – the world’s oldest shopping mall. It’s an historic sight and architectural gem with great shops like Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

The Brera district is known for its bohemian vibe, with numerous art galleries and smaller boutiques selling the finest ‘Made in Italy’ fashions.

It’s also the best place to buy a niche fragrance. In July, visitors can take advantage of seasonal sales.

SECRET SPOT

I adore discovering luxury vintage items and, at Madame Pauline (Foro Buonaparte 74), you can shop for Hermès, Prada, Jimmy Choo, Christian Dior and Chanel in the most fabulous grandma’s closet in the world. Label lovers who want to pay half price can’t miss Corso Como 10 Outlet (MM2 Porta Garibaldi), D Magazine (MM3 Montenapoleone) and Il Salvagente (Corso XXII Marzo area, Piceno stop).

Established as a small atelier in the heart of Milan in 1922, the Larusmiani (larusmiani.it) tradition for immaculate luxury tailoring has been passed down the generations. Visit the boutique on Via Montenapoleone 7.

Another great stop-off is Zilli (zilli. fr), which debuted its precious sartorial creations and leathergoods more than 40 years ago. Its collection now extends to Made in Italy shirts, suits and accessories. Find it at Via Gesù 5.

Over in Brera, Gucci (gucci.com) has chosen Milan as the home for its first European men’s flagship store. It features a large area dedicated to its made-to-measure service, offering tailoring for the modern-day gentleman.

Brioni (brioni.com), at Via Gesù 3, offers an entirely bespoke universe, based on more than 25,000 combinations for a truly customised total look (Via Gesù 3).

For top-notch tailoring, head to Ferdinando Caraceni in Via San Marco 22/a, which is a reference point for genuine Milanese man style. Or, pay a trip to Corneliani (corneliani. com) at Via Montenapoleone 26, which combines high-class tailoring with fabrics produced exclusively for the company. Nearby, Ermenegildo Zegna (zegna.it) at Via Montenapoleone 27/e creates a perfectly tailored, made-tomeasure suit. Loro Piana (loropiana. com) at Via Montenapoleone 27/c and Rubinacci (marianorubinacci.net), at Via Montenapoleone 18, are also worthy of a mention.

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The pedestrianised zone of Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is a classic stop=off for its shopping, aweinspiring monuments and museums.

There, you can find a mixture of highstreet favourites and top designers, so there is something to suit all budgets.

15 milan

Shopping, Four Seasons style

Where to stay

Four Seasons Hotel Milan Located in one of Italy’s sleekest shopping districts, this five-star property has 118 luxury hotel guestrooms and three dining venues – framed by a 15th-century cloistered and landscaped courtyard. fourseasons.com

Armani Hotel Each of the 95 guestrooms and suites at this hotel are an extension of the Giorgio Armani brand. Take advantage of the lifestyle manager concept to ensure you get the most out of your stay. armanihotelmilano.com

top DepartMent stores La Rinascente. This department store has a 150-year heritage and is home to an exclusive selection of fashion, accessories, beauty, lingerie, home interiors, food and design brands.

Piazza del Duomo. +39 02 88521, rinascente.it Excelsior. Designed by Jean Nouvel and Vincenzo de Cotiis, this former Milanese cinema has been transformed into an innovative fashion hub.

The fourth floor is a haven for shoe fans with areas dedicated for Manolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin.

Galleria del Corso. +39 02 7630 7301, excelsiormilano.com Coin. This historic department store extends over several floors. Its glass façade features one of the largest video walls in Europe – it’s a talking point for the city. Piazza Cinque Giornate, 1/A. +39 02 5519 2083, en.coin.it

Hilton Milan The city’s famous fashion district is within walking distance of the hotel. Book a suite, which features a separate seating area that’s perfect for stashing all your new buys. hilton.com

SECRET SPOT

Aedes De Venustas (aedes.com), at 7 Greenwich Ave, is a cult perfumery store that carries a curated selection of high-end beauty brands alongside an elegant in-house range of perfumes, scented candles and bodycare.

HOMEGROWN HEROES

My favourites have to be Marc Jacobs (marcjacobs.com) and Bookmarc (also

by Marc Jacobs) – he is the king of New York fashion.

At times, he can be irreverent and rebellious but he is always chic. That’s why he has managed to stay at the forefront of style over his decades-long career. You can find Marc Jacobs at 113 Prince Street and Bookmarc at 400 Bleecker Street.

Cartier on 5th Avenue

IN THE KNOW

Where to shop in…

New York

Flit between the world-famous department stores and cutting edge boutiques in the city that never sleeps

Oscar de la Renta

Curated by Megan Hess, an international fashion artist who works with top fashion designers and luxury brands globally. meganhess.com New Yorkers have incredible fashion sense and style – it’s really diverse. I like to perch myself in a busy Downtown coffee shop and sketch all the eclectic people walking past. Among the shopping highlights, for me, is the iconic Tiffany & Co. on 5th Ave (tiffany. com) – it’s so grand and beautiful. You can’t help feeling as though you are at the height of luxury.

For bespoke suits, you can’t get better than the incredible service at Tom Ford (tomford.com). Check out the stunning boutique at 845 Madison Avenue with its chocolate brown sofas.

For a quirky gift, head to MoMA Design Store at 44 West 53rd St (store.moma.org). The extension to The Museum of Modern Art sells a curated range of designer furniture and more.

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The gold trimmed panelled walls of stunning Upper East Side concept store Fivestory feel more like an art gallery than a department store. It’s the brainchild of native New Yorker Claire Distenfeld, who gathers international ready-to-wear designers and collaborates with cuttingedge creatives on everything from accessories to fine jewellery. 18 E 69th Street. +1 212 288 1338, fivestoryny.com Stop in at the exquisite Bond No.9 store on Bleeker Street for an array of signature perfumes in amazing bottles featuring everything from emerald Swarovski crystals to Andy Warhol prints. 399 Bleecker Street. +1 212 633 1641, bondno9.com Chanel’s Soho store brings a touch of French haute couture to New York. There you can find the iconic Chanel tweed jackets, skirts and pants in the super chic black and white palette. 139 Spring Street. +1 212 334 0055, chanel.com

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Barneys New York (barneys.com) is a must for the world’s top designers and has women’s and men’s readyto-wear, accessories, shoes, jewellery, cosmetics, fragrances and gifts for the home.

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Bergdorf Goodman

Where to stay

The St. Regis New York.

Founded by John Jacob Astor over a century ago, this iconic property has a timeless appeal.

Book into the Dior suite for a super fashionable stay. stregisnewyork.com

The Plaza New York Steeped in historic charm – this is where the ELLE fashion team stays during New York Fashion Week.

Need we say more? theplazany.com

top DepartmeNt stores Bergdorf Goodman. It’s the best for pure elegance and luxury – you simply can’t walk past without popping in.

Head straight to the fourth floor for the couture collection, the fur salon, evening collections and personal shopping service.

5th Avenue at 58th Street. +1 800 558 1855, bergdorfgoodman.com Saks Fifth Avenue. Check out the Made-to-Measure programme that offers personalised tailoring and

customisation by appointment for dress shirts, suits, sportscoats, trousers tuxedos and more. You can work with a fashion consultant and expert fitter to get the fabric cut and details you desire.

611 5th Avenue. +1 212 753 4000, saksfifthavenue.com Henri Bendel. It’s the place to go for younger, cooler items and the best accessories and bags in New York.

712 5th Avenue. + 1 212 247 1100, henribendel.com.

Hilton New York Fashion District This upscale hotel is located on West 26th Street (off 7th Avenue), close to Macy’s, Madison Square Garden and trendy neighborhoods such as SoHo, TriBeCa and Greenwich Village. hilton.com

T

Beverly Hills

his

Where to shop in…

Los AngeLes

Up the glamour stakes in LA, with numerous designer boutiques and outlet malls to raid

Tory Burch Pre-Fall 2017

Curated by Ashley Roberts, entertainer and founder of footwear brand Allyn LA is a melting pot of people – the very essence of the city has a certain coolness to it. Maybe it’s the extra vitamin D and social beaches that liven up the crowd. I love the feeling that the city evokes in me: a sense of freedom while, at the same time, offering so much to do and see.

The shopping scene has everyone covered, no matter what your style may be. From the bustling downtown LA Fashion District to the huge shopping centres and outlet malls and, of course, Rodeo Drive and Robertson Blvd. – you could devote weeks to exploring the glamorous attractions.

I love browsing department stores, as it’s easy to check out new collections and designers at a glance. I visit Barneys New York because, for me, it’s synonymous with indulgence. I also like going to Saks 5th Avenue and Bloomingdale’s as you can find pretty much everything there. Bargain hunters will want to check out the outlets in Camarillo, the Citadel, Desert Hills and Ontario Mills.

In-between shopping trips, visit the bistros and art galleries in Downtown LA, walk along the beaches and take in the vibrancy of the city.

SECRET SPOT

Westwood Village on Wilshire Boulevard (thewestwoodvillage.com) has a large selection of boutiques and jewellers that can offer custom designs to suit your individual style.

HOMEGROWN HEROES

LA is a hub for creativity and home to many established and up-and-coming designers. I love jeans by RE/DONE (shopredone.com) who use vintage denim. I have also recently discovered

That’s Totally Fine, which is a quirky and original label. And, of course, Allyn (farfetch.com) that offers comfortable, cool, statement shoes designed in LA and made in Italy – an international brand in its own right.

IN THE KNOW

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Opening Ceremony. Located in Charlie Chaplin’s former dance studio, this store is split over two levels and is great for fashion, art and travel finds. Upstairs, there is a series of designer shop-in-shops featuring brands such as Acne, Mayle, Topshop, Alexander Wang and Band of Outsiders. 451 N La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood. +1 310 652 1120, openingceremony.com Reformation. Created in 2009 by Yael Aflalo, Reformation designs and manufactures the majority of its limited edition collections at its factory headquarters in downtown LA. The environmentally-aware boutique also sources sustainable fabrics and vintage garments so you can feel good about shopping there. 8000 Melrose Avenue. +1 855 756 0560, thereformation.com Le Labo. Is the place to go for yummy scents including personalised perfumes.

8385 W 3rd Street. +1 323 782 0411, lelabofragrances.com

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Allyn Gwen Leopard

Ask American Express

The Grove (thegrovela.com) is a popular shopping, dining and entertainment destination with stores such as Anthropologie, Apple, Michael Kors, Coach and Nordstrom. Take an old-fashioned trolley ride and stop and watch the dancing fountains.

19 LOS ANGELES

Where to stay

Peninsula Beverly Hills.

Offering 195 guestrooms, including 38 suites and 17 private villas, this hotel is nestled among lush tropical gardens in the heart of Beverly Hills. Located at the intersection of Wilshire and South Santa Monica Boulevards, it is within easy walking distance of Century City and Rodeo Drive. beverlyhills.peninsula.com

Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

top DepArtment stores Beverly Center. Offers more than 100 speciality boutiques representing the very best of LA fashion, such as Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Gucci, Henri Bendel, H&M, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Saint Laurent, Salvatore Ferragamo and UNIQLO, among others.

8500 Beverly Boulevard. +1 310 854 0070, beverlycenter.com

The Americana at Brand. Located near Downtown LA, The Americana at Brand is home to J. Crew, Sephora, Tiffany & Co., David Yurman, Barneys New York, Madewell, Kate Spade, Nordstrom, UGG Australia and more. 889 Americana Way Glendale, California. +1 818 637 8982, americanaatbrand.com

Third Street Promenade. This pedestrianised, outdoor shopping district has much-loved chains like Converse and Banana Republic while, in the surrounding streets, you can discover speciality boutiques such as Design Within Reach. At the southern end of Third Street, the open-air Santa Monica Place comprises nearly 100 shops, from Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom to Tory Burch and Tiffany & Co. 2427 Main Street, Santa Monica. + 1 800 544 5319, santamonica.com

Hollywood & Highland. Steeped in Hollywood history, this iconic destination features the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards. Outside of the busy awards season, visitors flock there to browse more than 70 brand-name retailers from Louis Vuitton, L’Occitane, Victoria’s Secret and MAC to quintessential California stores like Hot Topic, Oakley, Skechers and Lucky Brand Jeans. 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood. +1 323 467 6412, hollywoodandhighland.com

Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel).

A landmark since opening in 1928, the Beverly Wilshire has hosted high profile guests including Elvis Presley, John Lennon and Warren Beatty.

It exudes history and glamour and is just steps away from the iconic Rodeo Drive. fourseasons.com

Hilton Checkers Los Angeles.

This boutique hotel is located at the heart of the business and financial district, within strolling distance to top theatres and shopping districts. hilton.com

20 madrid

Curated by Rosa Fernández, concierge manager, Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques Spanish capital Madrid is a friendly city with agreeable weather all year round. It also boasts the finest fashion and accessories brands at the best prices. Many big brand names were born in Spain, or created by Spanish designers.

Manolo Blahnik, for instance, is adored around the world and the shoes have graced the silver screen. Drop by the store on Calle Serrano to see the latest footwear.

Loewe is also a firm favourite for its luxurious clothes, leathergoods and accessories. There are 11 stores in the city, including those along Gran Vía and Plaza de las Cortes.

Further to this, the main streets for shopping are: Serrano, Velazquez, Goya and Ortega y Gasset. Make sure you also pay a trip to Barrio de Chueca and Barrio de las Letras (both in downtown), which are full of traditional and independent stores.

SECRET SPOT

Rastro, the open-air flea market that takes place every Sunday morning, is the place to go if you love history and antiquities. Located in one of the city’s most historic areas, between Calle Embajadores and Ronda de Toledo, it has a bohemian, trendy atmosphere.

HOMEGROWN HEROES

Adolfo Dominguez is known for its urban, casual clothing, with luxurious designs for more affordable prices.

There are numerous stores in Madrid but you should stop by the flagship at Calle Serrano 5. Of course, high street favourites Massimo Dutti, Mango, Uterqüe and Zara are great for a credit-card-friendly wardrobe update.

IN THE KNOW

Get a taste of luxury for less at designer shopping outlet Las Rozas Village, which is home to luxury fashion and homeware, offering up

Loewe coat at matchesfashion.com

Gran Via

Where to shop in…

maDriD

Split your time between the modern malls and the family-run boutiques in this historic city to 60% off. It’s around half an hour from Madrid but you can book a luxury chauffeur-driven service from the city centre or Madrid Barajas Airport, so you can travel in style. lasrozasvillage.com

top Department store El Corte Inglés. This is the most well-known department store in Spain, stocking more than 1,000 brands including Desigual, Adolfo Domínguez, Bric’s, Brioni, Cerruti, Elie Saab and many more. As you’d expect, it also boasts the largest selection of homegrown Spanish luxury brands, such as Loewe and Suarez. Keep an eye open for fun events, which are regularly hosted in the stores. There are numerous outposts scattered across the city, but the flagship store is located at 5º Planta, Calle de Raimundo Fernández Villaverde, 79. +34 915 55 91 13, elcorteingles.es

Ask American Express

For high-end shopping head to Barrio de Salamanca and the Golden Mile, which is lined with big name stores and boutiques from the most coveted international designers.

Where to stay

Radisson Blu Hotel Madrid Prado. Situated in the El Barrio de las Lestras district, this stylish retreat is located just a few minutes away from top attractions such as Prado Museum, Thyssen and Reina Sofía Museums. radissonblu.com The Principal Madrid Hotel. This centrally-located boutique hotel has 76 exclusive rooms and a rooftop terrace with amazing views. theprincipalmadridhotel.com Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques. A former 19th century palace with a prime location next to the Royal Palace, this property is a haven of peace and quiet thanks to its 1,000-square-metre private garden. Take a dip in the Jacuzzi on the top floor for fabulous views. melia.com

El Corte Inglés

Leading Fashion since 1940

El Corte Inglés has established itself as a world-class luxury shopping destination steeped in history and romance, shaped by its customers and, above all, its dedication to service and fashion. Its flagship store Castellana Store Madrid invites you to get the VIP Treatment and to discover an inspiring destination that brings together the widest selection of luxury brands: Armani Collezioni, Blancpain, Bvlgari, CH Carolina Herrera, Dior, Ermenegildo Zegna, Gucci, Hermès, Loewe, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, MaxMara, Prada, Yves Saint Laurent...

El Corte Inglés features one of the largest concentrations of designer watch brands such as Rolex, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Panerai and Omega, among others and stunning jewellery collections by top luxury jewellery brands such as Cartier, Piaget, H. Stern, Messika, Boucheron, Chaumet, Chopard, Carrera y Carrera, Yanes, etc.

El Corte Inglés opened a new store Serrano 52 Man exclusively dedicated to men’s fashion in the heart of Madrid. The new commercial spaces offers seven floors aimed at showcasing the latest trends in men’s fashion. Brands featured include Alberto Guardiani, Berwick, Berluti, Castellano, Dsquared2, Giuseppe Zanotti, Magnanni, Salvatore Ferragamo, Sergio Rossi, Tom Ford, Bottega Veneta.

All of these fashions are complemented with the innovative gastronomic offerings of the Gourmet Experience, boasting a combined total of seven Michelin stars.

You could find on-trend and fashion-forward pieces for woman in the unique space Serrano 47 Woman dedicated to the world of luxury: Alexander Wang, Etro, Carven, See by Chloé, etc.

DISCOVER EXCLUSIVE PRIVILEGES FOR YOUR SHOPPING EXPERIENCE AT EL CORTE INGLÉS CASTELLANA STORE • 10% Reward Card • Welcome Pack • Welcome by our Concierge on VIP DESK • Direct access to VIP LOUNGE (by appointment) • Image Consulting Service, expertly served by our talented stylists (by appointment) • TAX refund • Handsfree Shopping Service CASTELLANA STORE Paseo de la Castellana 71 • 47 SERRANO WOMAN STORE C/ Serrano 47 • 52 SERRANO MAN STORE C/ Serrano 52

FOLLOW US @4ShoppingLovers

View of Shanghai, from Four Seasons Pudong

Dong/Liang (dongliangchina.com) is a concept store you need to see. It stocks the best independent designers from China. Lastly, Helen Lee (helenleefashion.com) and Ji Cheng are also well-established local designers that are well worth checking out.

IN THE KNOW

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The Bund area has a lot of top luxury brands including Chanel, Cartier, Omega and some of the world’s top hotels – Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund and The Peninsula Shanghai are there. The architecture in this area is stunning, and you can easily find a great café or lounge bar with an amazing view if you need to take a break from your shopping spree.

Xin Tian Di is famous for its cool vibe, packed with some great lounges and restaurants, but I also like going there to shop. I.T has a huge store there and there are also some great boutique finds in the area.

Jingan Temple is situated in the most expensive district in Shanghai and is home to several top luxury malls.

10 Corso Como (10corsocomo.com) found its first home in China here – in fact, it’s the third store the brand has opened outside of Italy. Recently, Chanel’s first pop-up, Coco Café, was opened there, too.

Huaihai Road is one of Shanghai’s first well-developed luxury shopping roads – locals think of luxury when you mention the name. You can find the first Hermès Maison in China there.

Lujiazu is known as the Central Business District (CBD) in Shanghai.

It’s situated in the new part of Shanghai: Pudong, where you can find several of the tallest buildings in China.

It’s a good place to do some luxury shopping, especially if you want to avoid the crowds.

2 Where to shop in…

Shanghai

There’s no shortage of shopping in Shanghai, from its bustling districts to its luxurious malls – lets zoom in Curated by Elle Lee, Shanghai-born style influencer, celebrity personality and founder of elleiconlee.com Shanghai is an international city that caters to people from different cultures, and a variety of tastes and budgets.

There’s a lot to choose from and, as the shopping scene is still developing, you’ll never get bored. There’s always a new designer, concept store or a method of shopping to investigate. Shops open until very late and, if your bags are weighing you down, you can always arrange a courier to take them back to the hotel for you – some couriers work around the clock.

It’s not difficult to find tailors in Shanghai. A lot of people walk in carrying magazines as inspiration and there is quite a big price range to choose from. If you’re seeking something simple and affordable, head to South Bund Fabric Market. W.W.

Chan& Sons Tailor (wwchan.com), Tony The Tailor (tonythetailor-sh. com), Eleganza Uomo (eleganzauomo. com) and The French Tailor (fr. thefrenchtailor.com) – are some of the best ones in Shanghai, offering a more premium service and design. You can find them in Jingan district, or at the French Concession.

SECRET SPOT

DFO showroom (dfointernational. com) in downtown Shanghai represents international designer brands and also has a year-round outlet situated next to the showroom. I can always find something in season but at a much friendlier price. However, sizes are limited as they only hold some samples or special editions.

HOMEGROWN HEROES

Comme Moi was developed by the world famous Chinese top model Lv Yan and is adored by many. Her designs are practical, modern and easy to wear.

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Ask American Express

Adopt the local look by having a customised Cheongsam (Qipao) – the traditional Chinese dress for women – made at one of the many specialist stores along Changle Road. Choose from luxurious materials such as silk and satin, in a variety of rich shades.

23 Shanghai

Where to stay

The Peninsula Shanghai.

This swish hotel was the newest building on The Bund for several decades when it opened in 2009. Its Yi Long Court and Sir Elly’s restaurants both earned Michelin stars in The Michelin Guide Shanghai 2017. shanghai.peninsula.com

Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai.

With uninterrupted views of the historic The Bund, you can relax after a hard day’s shopping with an Asian massage at CHI, The Spa. shangri-la.com

Shanghai ifc Mall

top Department StoreS K11. This art mall is one-of-a-kind in China. It always has artsy events going on and it stocks a lot of interesting brands. Even the restaurants are full of personality – one has an organic farm inside so guests can pick exactly which plant they want to eat. 398 Huaihai Zhong Lu, Luwan District. k11.com iAPM. This hip luxury mall has the longest daily open hours – from 10am to 11pm – with some outlets remaining

open until 2am. It’s situated in the heart of Shanghai and has the world’s first Gucci restaurant, 1921Gucci.

999 Huaihai Middle Rd, Xuhui Qu, Shanghai Sh. +86 21 3326 6700 Shanghai ifc Mall. Located in CBD, Pudong, this popular, label-loaded mall offers everything you need for a stylish shopping spree – Chanel through to Dior – and some choice restaurants, too. shanghaiifcmall.com.cn

Four Seasons Pudong Packed full of glamour and bespoke experiences, this energetic hotel has an awesome ambience inspired by Shanghai moderne, dialled up for hip, 21st-century tastes. fourseasons.com/pudong

24 HONG KONG

Where to shop in…

Hong Kong Browse the up-scale shopping neighborhoods, department stores and street markets that characterise this vibrant destination Curated by Christie Simpson, a stylist who has worked with the likes of Victoria Beckham and Li Bing Bing. christiesimpsonstylist.com

SECRET SPOT

Melville Fine Jewellery (melvillejewellery.com) is by far my favourite bespoke jewellery designer worldwide. Founder and designer Natalie Melville is a creative genius, specialising in combining sustainable, ethical and traceable sourcing with innovative design and impeccable craftsmanship. Book an appointment in advance at 13/F Cheong Sun Tower, 118 Wing Lok St, Sheung Wan.

Causeway Bay

HOMEGROWN HEROES

Melissa Bui’s (melissabui.com) couture designs are out of this world. She works with delicate materials and isn’t afraid to experiment with a new shape, embellishment or add some colour to her collections. Her aesthetic is retrochic meets modern feminism.

Melissa Bui SS17

Hong Kong is a true shopping haven with an abundance of designer brands mixed with great local couture designers. You can spend hours wandering around malls or discovering some hidden gems down alleyways.

The destination is always evolving with new brands, stores and areas constantly popping up to surprise you.

Barney Cheng (barneycheng.com) does the most amazing bespoke couture dresses but you need to book well in advance as he’s in high demand.

If you’re after a quick adjustment, my go-to tailor is Ann & Bon (2/F, Melbourne Plaza, 33 Queens Rd Central). To spoil the children, contact Vivian Luk (3-15 Yik Yam St, Happy Valley, vivianluk.com), who started out at Vera Wang and now runs her own wedding dress atelier, as well as Little Miss Luk, which offers couture dresses for little misses.

IN THE KNOW

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Gentle Monster. This Korean brand has one of the best sunglass ranges I have seen. The store design is amazing – it’s based on an old train carriage, so shopping there is a real experience. 25 Lan Fong Road, Causeway Bay. +822 3144 0864, gentlemonster.com/showroom Shanghai Tang. The brand’s largest flagship store is a must see. The layout is very zen with a wonderful aroma that follows you around – you can even buy it to take home with you. Indulge in a more traditional cheongsam or snap up some more modern pieces with a traditional twist.

Make sure you look through their old picture books to see how Hong Kong has evolved, landscape-wise, over the years. 1 Duddell Street, Hong Kong Central. +852 2525 7333, shanghaitang.com The Armoury. This is a proper gentleman’s boutique – think dapper Italian men drinking espressos in the sunshine. It does beautiful tailoring and the accessories range features everything from pocket squares to braces and intricately designed umbrellas. Landmark Central. +852 2810 4990, thearmoury.com

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25 HONG KONG

Where to stay

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong One of the most prestigious luxury five-star hotels in Hong Kong, this property is located on floors 102-118 of the West Kowloon district’s International Commerce Centre, offering stunning views of Victoria Harbour. ritzcarlton.com

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental This chic, five-star retreat in the heart of Hong Kong’s fashion district is famed for its impeccable service – and grants direct access to the brilliant Landmark Mall. mandarinoriental.com

Lane Crawford

top Department stores Lane Crawford. Hong Kong’s main department store houses top tier and middle tier brands and you can spend hours wandering and shopping here.

It even has a huge beauty department.

Everything is styled and curated to perfection. Times Square, 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay. +852 2118 2288, lanecrawford.com Joyce. I often find myself wandering around Joyce in amazement.

Its Queens Road Central store doubles up as an interactive gallery showcasing some of the most desired fashion collections from all over the world. 6-18 Queen’s Road Central. +852 2810 1120, joyce.com

Ask American Express

Tsim Sha Tsui and Admiralty are where the majority of luxury goods and high-fashion brands are concentrated. Check out the harbourfront ifc mall, which houses more than 200 international brands.

Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong Towering 56 storeys high, this luxurious tower overlooks the city’s most prestigious shopping addresses in Central.

As a bonus, Hong Kong’s Pacific Place mall is located just below the hotel. shangri-la.com

ION, Orchard Road

SECRET SPOT

Holland Village (holland-villagesingapore.com) has a bohemian feel with shops and cafés dotted around – it is the perfect getaway from Orchard Road, and very popular among expats.

HOMEGROWN HEROES

Where to shop in…

Singapore

Hunt down those top buys in this stunning cityscape that is a playground for fashion fans Curated by Edwina Viel, an investment manager turned lifestyle blogger who was born in Singapore. seashellsonthepalm.com

Stolen by Elyn Wong SS2017

Carrie K, amethyst double ring

Carrie K White Pearl Rose Gold Ear Climber

Singapore is a melting pot of different nationalities and cultures and everything in the city has been amazingly well planned in terms of infrastructure and convenience. When it comes to shopping, affordability is key due to the rise in competition. For a variety of luxury brands under one roof, make a beeline for Paragon shopping centre (paragon.com.sg) at the heart of Orchard Road. The upper floors have some lesser-known brands that offer great design and value for money while, on the top floor, there is kids’ clothing and a playground to keep them busy.

For bespoke items, Hayden Boutique at Soho2@Central is a leading place to go.

Ong Shunmugam (ongshunmugam. com), by Priscilla Shunmugan, became popular for its creative take on the original Chinese cheongsam, using incredible textiles to weave its fabrics.

It now stocks a large range of ready-towear and offers tailored designs, too.

For fine jewellery, Carrie K (carriekrocks.com) by Carolyn Kan is packed with quirky, affordable pieces. She offers a bespoke service for overseas clients. Each piece is handcrafted from scratch and takes about six weeks to complete.

Dzojchen (dzojchen.com), by Chelsea Scott-Blackhall, showcases a high fashion style, with an edgy twist while Stolen by Elyn Wong (stolenstolen.com), is also a favourite.

IN THE KNOW

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ION. Located on the corner of Orchard Road and Scotts Road, this is one of the newest malls, filled with luxury designer brands, including Dior. ionorchard.com Ngee Ann City was one of the first malls to house designer brands from Louis Vuitton and Chanel and remains one of the most popular on Orchard Road. ngeeanncity.com.sg 313@Somerset is home to more casual fashion brands, from Muji to Zara and Forever 21 – it’s so easy to navigate. 313somerset.com.sg

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Ask American Express

A stroll along the lush Orchard Road is a must. Spanning almost 2.2 kilometres, this one-way boulevard is flanked by shopping malls, restaurants and hotels, with the shopping belt delivering nearly 800,000 square metres of retail, dining and entertainment options.

Fashion highlights include 3.1 Phillip Lim to Christian Dior, Saint Laurent and many more.

27 singapore

Robinsons Singapore

Where to stay

The St. Regis Singapore Situated at the heart of the city’s premier shopping district, with Orchard Road on the doorstep, this luxurious property provides an ideal escape for discerning travellers. stregissingapore.com

Four Seasons Hotel Singapore Located on the tranquil Orchard Boulevard, this hotel is an oasis of calm in the middle of the busting city.

It’s just a short stroll away from Orchard Road and the picturesque Singapore Botanic Gardens. fourseasons.com/singapore

top Department StoreS Takashimaya. This well-known Japanese department store holds a vast array of luxury brands and is famous both in Japan and in Singapore for its food courts, supermarkets and kitchen items. It is a one-stop-shop for everything from make-up to children’s toys and clothes. Finish with a quick meal at its insanely large choice of food vendors. 391A Orchard Rd. +65 6506 0458, takashimaya.com.sg Isetan. This Japanese department store is popular among locals for its

selection of Japanese and Western designs. It has slightly more affordable brands than Takashimaya and remains very popular. There are five store locations, including at 350 Orchard Road. +65 6733 1111, isetan.com.sg Robinsons Singapore. Created in Singapore in 1858 by two British expats, it has a lovely, curated collection of fashion labels and local designs. There are three store locations, including The Heeren at 260 Orchard Road. +65 6735 8838, robinsons.com.sg

Conrad Centennial Singapore.

There’s never a dull moment at this property. Style mavens will be pleased to learn that it is part of the Millenia Singapore development, home to an impressive mall with direct access to over 1,000 shops. conradhotels3.hilton.com

28 TRAVEL TIPS

ThE arT of packing

ExcEss baggagE If you’ve acquired a few more items than planned don’t fret, as you can get it home intact

Emirates When flying to and from destinations outside of the Americas you can take 20-35kg of checked baggage in economy (depending on the ticket type), up to 40kg in Business Class and up to 50kg as a First Class passenger.

You can check in as many pieces of baggage as you need, as long as you don’t bust your weight allowance. Just bear in mind that each individual item must weigh less than 32kg in total.

Also, if any individual item has total dimensions (length + width + height) greater than 300cm (118 inches), it can’t be checked in as baggage and will need to be sent as cargo or freight. If you go over the baggage allowance you usually have to pay an excess baggage charge.

Different baggage rules apply for those travelling to and from destinations in Canada, North America and South America. emirates.com Saudia Guest Class passengers can carry one piece of luggage weighing a maximum of 25kg. First Class & Business Class passengers can carry two pieces

of luggage, each weighing up to 25kg. If you go over, you may need to redistribute the contents of your luggage. If that’s not possible, you’ll need to pay a fee of around US$37 (SAR140) for each piece over the limit.

Same goes if the number of pieces is over the limit but their total weight is within the limits (a similar charge will be applied to each piece). saudia.com Qantas Your checked baggage allowance depends on the destination you’re heading to and your cabin class. For international destinations (other than the Americas), you can purchase some additional baggage allowance online for a lower rate than what you would pay at the airport. When booking your flight, additional baggage allowance can be purchased in increments of 5kg, 10kg, 15kg, 25kg or 35kg up to a total of 100kg per flight. 35kg is the maximum baggage that can be purchased in a single transaction. Once your flight is booked, you can buy up to an extra 65kg. Only available on Qantas operated flights. qantas.com

Tumi shares some smart solutions for squeezing (almost) everything into your suitcase. get organised. Use packing cubes to separate outfits by colour and occasion. Having everything zipped up in a designated space encourages a more methodical approach, which means you’ll be much more likely to fit it all in.

Stack it right. Pack socks and other small items around the handlebars of your suitcase to create a flat packing surface, which you can build upon.

Similarly, wrap belts around the inside of the case, insert them into shoes, or use them to line collars to keep them nice and crisp.

Save space. Roll clothes instead of folding – it’s amazing what a difference it makes. It also means your clothes are less likely to crease.

If you are packing a blazer, turn it inside out to prevent wrinkling.

Lighten up. Always wear the heaviest pair of shoes you are taking with you while on the journey. It’s the best quick fix for reducing weight in your suitcase.

Be a beauty nomad. Buy toiletries when you arrive at your destination, or use the selection that’s provided in your hotel, so you can free up much needed space for your fashion buys. for more top tips, visit perfectingthepack.com

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