Curated with as much thought and flair as any exhibition, with a mix of merchandise that reflects or – in the case of the commissioned items – responds to the V&A’s collections and temporary shows (they open a separate, themed mini shop for each of their big exhibitions and there’s an excellent bookshop too). Boldly putting the shop right at the heart of the museum has made it a destination in its own right and it’s a strategy that has paid off – visitors nip in to buy a birthday present, then find it impossible to leave without dipping into the galleries. Great for birthday and Christmas cards, arty scarves, contemporary jewellery and quirky decorative items
As featured in the 100 best shops in London