Zara

Spanish high street chain Zara has been in London over a decade, and in that time has succeeded in toppling Topshop as our premiere go to shop for catwalk inspired fashion. The branch on the corner of Bond Street and Oxford Street is Europe’s largest Zara store- and it is fabulous. With several deliveries every week, and a fast turn around of stock that means you won’t see your coat on every one you meet, it's no wonder that Zara is leading the fast-fashion pack, serving up the latest trends hot off the catwalk. It is said that it takes Zara only two weeks to ‘reinterpret’ a catwalk trend and get it on their rails- and Zara spend proportionally more on their fabrics and manufacture than most of the high street (making up the profits through sheer volume). That means you get very good quality, very fashionable clothes for your modest buck (around £37 for a blouse). The international brand, staggeringly, has some 1700 stores in more than 70 countries and is adept at bringing the global masses appealing, affordable and fashionable day and evening wear. Leaving most designer labels quaking in their generously priced boots.