Hobbs

Hobbs is quite unusual in catering for business women and the smarter side of party clothing. It’s pretty expensive, but great if you’re looking for a birthday or Christmas treat. I’m always a bit scared to go in wearing casual clothes, but lots of people browsing are dressed in jeans and trainers, so don’t be put off.
The staff are quite aloof, but are happy for you to browse. The layout is uncluttered enough to make it easy to head for the right section.
The main types of clothing are:
Business suits — trouser and skirt
Smart clothes — that would be fine for most offices
Casual clothes — we’re talking Kensington ‘casual’, not student casual
Party — forget skimpy cocktail dresses; this is sensible, adult, elegant.
You’re looking at well over £100 for a dress, over £150 for a suit jacket, and over £50 for a shirt. They do shoes, handbags and jewellery too.
If you’ve got the money to shop here, it should be just the trick for smart work clothes. Personally, I prefer to spend the money I earn on non work-​related things and would rather buy lots of fun items for the same price!