Dover Street Market

A department store but not as we know it; Dover Street Market offers a novel approach to consumerism that combines a dynamic street market feel with a quirky, design-led department store surround. Piloted by Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons fame, this place is cutting-edge and super-cool. A minimalist, functional interior - steel beams, brick walls, Portakabins - provides a suitably stark canvas set over six floors for the various fashion designs on display throughout. A centrally located "shed" - complete with cash machine and till - acts as the focal point for the emporium. All of the designers displaying their wares are encouraged to adapt the space to suit their collection, which means that the interior is often as dynamic as the range of clothing. The designs on display won't be for everyone - this is high not high street fashion - but even if you're not there to buy, walking around this construction-site-come-shopping-centre is a rare treat. Don't be fooled by the 'market' name tag - prices here aren't exactly cheap and any attempt to haggle them down will result in a few raised (although, admittedly, well-plucked) eyebrows.

Best for:
High fashion with minimalist surroundings, Comme des Garçons, Raf Simons and Hedi Slimane.