As I’m not really one for high street fashion, I mainly thrift in charity shops and the numerous vintage shops and fairs that take place throughout London. I love a bargain – digging for gold and the sense of joy when I find the treasure. That said, working in the West End of London and surrounded by shops, I do occasionally selectively shop at a few of my high street favourites during my lunch break, often heading straight for the sale and clearance section.
Style is an art form, and I love expressing myself through clothing unique to me and how I am feeling. It is always on purpose and says something about my personality. Below I have listed five of my favourite places to shop for a bargain, which often have great sales in-store and online and retain a sense of quirkiness and individuality.
Monki
Monki is a brand within the H&M group that has been around since 2006. They are different and not too mainstream. I like their uniqueness which makes them well suited to their home in Carnaby Street. Monki have vibrant colours, and patterns and styles in a class of their own. I particularly love their dresses and jumpsuits. They often have great sales in-store and online in their outlet section, so it’s easy to grab a bargain. Monki also promote sisterhood values, sustainability and conscious initiatives. I highly recommend Monki not only as a great shop for a bargain but also for its differentness too.
Bershka
Berhska is part of the Spanish Inditex group, which also owns Zara. They are though a little cheaper than Zara and a bit edgier. Bershska is offbeat and never boring. They also have a great selection of well-priced jeans, and there always seems to be something on sale. It is one of my “go-to” shops when looking for holiday bargains. As they are aiming at a younger market, some of the stuff can be a bit hit and miss, but generally speaking, it’s a fantastic shop with something for everyone.
Asos
Who doesn’t know about ASOS?! This online retailer is hugely versatile and offers a wide range of sizes and brands. I particularly love their fuller bust bikini range. It can be difficult for us small back big boob ladies to find good reasonably priced bikinis, and ASOS provide an excellent range. Other specialist lines include their ASOS curve, plus size, petite and tall range – there is something for everyone. They have good sales on brand names, but, in my opinion, their ASOS line is a bit hit-and-miss. Admittedly, when it is a hit, they have some real gems which you can pick up at great prices in the sale. You can also find unique vintage and independent brands on ASOS Marketplace, where you can buy from fashion start-ups and boutiques for one-of-a-kind finds. ASOS are also committed to ethical trade and sustainable sourcing.
TK Maxx
TK Maxx is the subsidiary of the American apparel and home goods company TJX Companies and is known as TJ Maxx Stateside. I have been shopping at TK Maxx for about 20 years, long before it got so popular and nationwide. It used to be a bit of a jumble sale and hard work to sift through, but they are much more organised now. Anyone still finding it hard just ain’t about that life. It’s worth putting in the work to bag big brands, designer labels and fabulous one-off pieces at reasonable prices. No TK Maxx is the same, so it’s worth shopping around and online. They have an excellent homeware section too. Furthermore, you can transform the items you no longer need into funds for research into children and young people’s cancers by donating clothes, accessories and homewares at selected stores.
Mango
Though some of their items are a little pricey, Mango has good sales, and I think they have a slight edge over Zara in uniqueness, class and style. Mango exudes a timeless chic, are generally reasonably priced, and their pieces showcase a simple, effortless elegance. Check them out for natural and contemporary styles with a Mediterranean essence. To shop for a bargain check, discounts and promotion codes, check out the online outlet. Mango is also committed to sustainable development.
Though I like a bargain, I won’t negotiate on quality. To me, a bargain is a good quality item at a good price, and I think these shops reflect that. They also reflect uniqueness and individuality no matter what age you are.
Fancy lunch in the area after your shopping spree? Check out A little bit of Spain in Soho at Tapas Brindisa
