Originally published on Tuesday, 18th November 2008

The Beautiful Things

In these pressing pecuniary times, Personal Shopper is making an attempt at this concept of window shopping. If a purchase does happen to be made, it’s only in the name of beauty, after all… 

The Beautiful Store

Merchant Archive
There’s nothing like a good browse to blow away the Winter blues, and at Merchant Archive , everything is for sale. Giving the space a gallery like feeling, Gordon Crabb’s fine art photography lines the walls whilst stock, including an impressive array of vintage finds alongside Jessica McComack jewellery, shoes from TN-29, sculptures from Kathy Dalwood and handmade luxury candles by True Grace, is displayed on old apothecary tables full of little drawers and the big gold desk where owner Sophie Merchant still works.

Merchant Archive : 320 Kilburn Lane, London W9 3EF

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The Beautiful Site

Lily & Lionel
Taking inspiration from her grandparents, (Lily who secretly worked as a seamstress creating elaborate outfits during the war, and Lionel who kept the high street in fashion), LCF graduate Alice Stone’s website Lilyandlionel.com is a joy to browse through. With some of the best locally produced, ethically sourced pieces from around the world it keeps quantities small and personal, and you can’t help but love the sweet couple’s photo shoot.

UJ loves the multi tassel scarves in black and cream.

The Beautiful Show

Matches
As part of fashion boutique Matches ’ ongoing series of site-specific art installations, artist Natasha Law has taken her trademark inky, erotic line drawings and created an installation entitled “I put my finger on you”. Featuring laissez faire females in nothing but high heels and knickers, these include large vinyl cut designs for the huge double height back wall of the store plus window decals, a new set of high gloss paintings on aluminium and a couple of limited edition special process prints, as well as silk scarves and prints available in-store or from Matches online from late November throughout December. Prices for the product start at £200 up to £600. 

From 21st November, Matches 60-64 Ledbury Rd, W11 2AJ