I only popped in here to get some buttons but was blown away by what I found: stacks and stacks of…read morereally diverse, different and interesting fabrics. Mostly of the Liberty variety, and similar. Far more inspiring than your average fabric shop on Goldhawk Road (with the honorable exception of A to Z fabrics, though Fabs Galore probably have a better range still). The staff were really friendly and helpful too. Only downside were the prices, which at £6 a metre for plain corduroy and £12 a metre for the more striking fabrics is quite a bit higher than I've seen elsewhere. But given their excellent range, I'll nevertheless be returning.

Coming in from Arizona, I had done a bit of research on the internet about fabric shops in London…read more This store stood out with reasonable prices, exactly what I was looking for, and not far from where I'm staying. I must say the two gentlemen working there were very pleasant and helpful. I will return soon to purchase more providing my suitcase will hold it! Wonderful shop and if you love fabric, reasonable prices and friendly staff, give it a visit!

Shoe store blissssssss!…read more I had about 15 minutes to spare on a recent Friday near Spitalfields, and was summoned to Author by the "20% off all full-price items" sign + balloons. I mean, even the most priciest of shoes discounted by 20 percent means "yay" right? Yes. Well, I didn't end up with that discount -- but I did find 2 (yes, TWO!) pairs of ankle boots on the sale rack. God bless having a weird size and a penchant for boots I can walk around London in. Score, score! One black and one brown, both fabulous and already marked down by about 25 percent to speed their exit. I'd been looking for ages to replace my Berlin flea market finds (RIP) -- and finally, I've got my upgrades. Worth the wait. The sales girls were VERY helpful, quite nice, not pushy and very accommodating. Unexpected and delightful. I walked out 2 bags heavier and a very happy woman. From the outside this looks like a posh joint, but don't be fooled -- there is something for the savviest of shoe shoppers as well, and the fancy stuff isn't overpriced. They specialize in stylish/comfortable footwear, with a few oddities thrown in for good measure. I won't hesitate to stop into their other locations when out and about, and I will surely be making the Spitalfields outpost a regular on my rotation. *as Caren H mentioned, no Amex. All other cards accepted.

Author may well be my favourite chain shoe shop ever. They have locations in Covent Garden,…read moreLeicester Sq, Camden Town, Spitalfields, etc.... all over. The shoes are a range of prices from, well, pricey, to completely affordable. I've found all the sales staff at multiple locations to be very friendly and helpful, often offering to call other branches if they lack a size you need (which, sadly, seems to often be the case... stocks aren't huge, especially during sale time. Which is the only downsize... They will advertise a huge sale, but then only have shoes in tiny and huge sizes. Alas, the plight of the averagely-footed woman, but I digress from my first world problems). The style is eclectic, but you won't find casual sneakers or uber slutty heels here. Think espadrilles, unique heels, spanish leather sandals, oxfords... good men's selection of stylish casual shoes as well. Yes, stylish casual... I'd say that is the theme here. Shoes that would go well in an Anthropologie store, basically.

I've had pretty mixed experiences at this place. The atmosphere of the place gives you the sense…read morethat the fabrics have all been there forever - like everything's just old stock and they haven't managed to get rid of it; the whole place feels a bit dusty. Even thought they advertise themselves as one of the largest carriers of Liberty fabrics, if you're actually a fan of Liberty's textiles, I'd suggest you go to Liberty itself rather than coming here, since frankly, I feel like the "enormous" Liberty stock is a lot of unpopular leftovers that never sold. Aside from Liberty fabrics, the other textiles they carry just aren't that nice - but the prices don't reflect their relatively underwhelming quality - not that they're expensive or even overpriced, per se, they just aren't a good value... you wouldn't dash in here in a pinch and come away with something you were fond of, nor something that was a bargain. The service here is also mixed. I once had a great experience when I was once looking for a very specific type of fabric in a very specific colour, and they were very helpful to the extent that they searched with me and even went out of their way to check their back stock. So at times they really seem to care about serving their customers, but I've also had just *okay* service here - so it probably all just depends on who is working. For the most part, I'd say there's no good reason to make a point of coming here... unless you're looking for an out-of-print Liberty fabric, which they very well may still have... collecting dust on the shelf.

I almost didn't go to Shaukat because of the previous review, so I kind of feel obligated to tip…read morethe scales a bit here, as I really enjoyed myself. The service when I went in was extremely hands-off. I don't like to be bothered when I'm shopping, but even so... I felt totally lost in the store and really could've used some guidance - signage - a friendly staff person - something. That said, when I actually asked for help, they were friendly and told me everything I needed to know. I found a lot of classic prints, including Capel, which is my one true fabric love, at cheaper prices than at Liberty itself - not everything here is just old prints that didn't sell, lots of the patterns they had were on the shelves when I went to Liberty (although admittedly, it was more classics than seasonals). And they had the wool/cotton blend I wanted in a limited selection as well, which I was very excited about. All in all, I'm really glad I made the trip out here. Not luxe by any stretch of the imagination, but a really fun and affordable-for-Liberty-fabric shopping experience.

AOK. I've walked by…read moreFiorentini + Baker many many times in my days living near Rivington Street and was always very intrigued by the lush leathers and beautiful boots. Finally this past weekend during a bit of indulgent Sunday shopping I made my way in (and managed to hit their 1pm-5pm opening hours), and I have to admit -- left feeling a bit deflated. It's a gorgeous (albeit small) store right near the Start trifecta triangle of shops. I popped in and looked around and felt the money burning a hole in my pocket. I was ready to buy something fun! Now, where to start? Well nowhere because they didn't have my size in anything and the girl was terribly unhelpful in trying to help me find anything that might be interesting. She wasn't unfriendly, but also a bit apathetic. I was over it almost as quickly as I was in love with it --- a fleeting crush that will likely never materialize. Given the price point, the customer service should be in line with the expenditure. So even though the boots are gorgeous and the bags divine, I don't think I'll be making a return visit. But, if you have smaller feet and more patience, perhaps it'll be the right fit for you. Pun intended. All for the best though -- my next stop was Aida Shoreditch where I picked up a super fine pair of Fryes, on sale, and my heart leapt with joy. Their opening hours at F&B are a bit all over the place so if you are planning a trip do plan ahead. I've updated them as of the day I wrote this review on Yelp but they are obviously subject to change and seem a bit "whimmy."

An Incredible find! The shoes are incredibly gorgeous and a great selection of sizes. I'm a 42…read more(11US) and the shop owners helped me find the perfect fit. Gave me great pointers on how to put shoes on properly and even fitted the shoes for me to ensure the sizing was correct. The shoes are designed by the lovely husband and wife team and made in Italy. Beautiful embellished satins and good quality leather shoes. Super comfortable and the heels are very sturdy! Some shoe styles even have a matching bag (purse)! I found my wedding shoes here and will be ordering more in the future. The location is easy to find and close to the metro. If you're looking for beautiful quality dress and business casual shoes, this is the place! Happy show hunting!

We're still talking Westfields, but Hilfiger has moved into a bigger store across the atrium…read more While the ladies section in the old one was rather limited it now has prime position in the front of the store. Decent enough choice of preppy styles, but all I was after was a perfect pair of black trousers - success. I quite like the confidence on slamming a neat £100 price tag on upmarket leggings, but I've only ever had good experiences with the brand, so hopefully worth it. What really convinced me though was the changing room - as spacious as a hotel room! The trousers were laid out for me on a comfy chair in the corner. Impressed!

Give me 10 minutes in Noa Noa and an unlimited credit card limit, and I'm convinced I could make a…read morebox of cereal could look feminine and fashionable. Straight out of Serena Van Der Woodsen's closet (or Kate Moss if you need a non-fictional fashion icon), I oohed and aahed through well placed racks and stylish displays of fashion-forward, yet vintage inspired pieces that define the 'boho chic' style. Every element of each piece is simply, yet thoughtfully designed and you can literally mix-and-match your way around the store to create all sorts of rustic and romantic combinations. This winter the palette consists mainly of soft purples, graham cracker browns, avocado greens and a touch of burgundy. Yum. Noa Noa carries those "I'll just throw it on and look fabulous" items that every lady should have an arsenal of in her closet... if she can afford it. Quick Tip: Turns out Noa Noa means 'fragrant' in Tahitian. Floral, whimsical, and fragrant feminine fashion. Love, love, love, love, love.

I thought Noah Noah was an independent shop that only existed in Central London. Oh no, I was so…read morewrong. Strolling down Upper Street I was delighted to find one peeking out in between a busy restaurant area and the council offices. When I go into Noah Noah's I have noticed that, generally, the clothes are very plain. Plain and simple but effective and lovely. The quality at Noah Noah is top notch - I've got an ink-blue, long sleeved top which is very thin but continues to look brand new even after it's faced my monsterous washing machine (it's so violent that things fly off the top of it even if you've only asked it to do a 'delicate' wash). I think I've had a comment from somebody every time I've worn it asking if it's new. Noah Noah doesn't make particularly daring clothes, so if you are someone who wants to fade into the background yet still wear pretty clothes, then this is the place for you. That doesn't mean the more adventurous of us who do dare wear crazy clothes shouldn't take a look - it depends on what time of year it is as to what sort of clothes they have in store. I have only given it three stars because they prices are high and I try to buy more exciting clothes.

So it isn't very often that I would require something from a shop like Fabrications, but yesterday…read moreI did. I was sent on a mission to get some cotton thread, luckily I stumbled across this place. I was greeted by a nice lady who apologised straight away for the messy state of the shop, something I was oblivious to as I thought everything looked in order. There is definitely a charm that this shop possesses. There is an interesting mix of products but I guess it is all fabric related, hence the name. There is also a gallery space that you can hire out for solo or group art shows. Anyway, my trip to Fabrications was a success as I found the exact colours I was sent to get. Out of all the places I went to that sell fabric, thread, wool etc. I found this to be the best, and by far the most delightful. I guess that's Broadway Market for you.

Fabrications is a great little find on Broadway Market. Now, I'm not exactly the most crafty…read moreperson, but if you are, you'll love this place. The wool in here is pretty, and everything in here kinda makes me want to take up knitting. The owner is really helpful and friendly, and it's just a really nice place to come and visit. They've got loads of unusual crafts in here like French kitting wheels and giant knitting needles. And enough craft kits for you to make your own things when you leave! Everything is well priced, and you'll find any kind of gift for just about any kind of person. I had my eye on a knitted giraffe last time I popped in to say hi. The hanemade items are gorgeous, and I'm sure if I was more crafty, I'd give this place five stars. It's a great little venue, on a lovely, somewhat undiscovered street. Come here quick before Broadway Market gets as trendy as Columbia Road. It's fab.