Edinburgh is a beautiful city. An historic city. A cultured city. But who cares about that nonsense; what's the Edinburgh shopping like?! Well, here's our take on it
Harvey Nichols is everyone's favourite posh shop. Packed full of cool designer labels and the latest cutting edge gear, Harvey's is also the place to go for funky homeware, beautiful cosmetics and designer luggage. And the bars and restaurants on the top floor have some of the best views in the city.
Just across the square from Harvey's is the grande dame of Edinburgh stores, Jenners. This fab old store has stood on the corner of Princes Street for over a hundred years. A favourite among the traditionalists, it's also got more than its fair share of hip fashion labels. There's floor upon floor of clothes, homeware, toys, cosmetics, furniture, jewellery and lingerie. Not to mention a florist, hairdresser and countless cafes and restaurants.
Edinburgh's well served for the major chains too, with branches of Fraser's, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, H&M on Princes Street and beyond.
Multrees Walk
Right beside Harvey Nichols is an inconspicuous wee street with some far from inconspicuous names. Multrees Walk is home to Armani, Louis Vuitton, Calvin Klein, Daks, Reiss, Mulberry and more. It's a new shopping destination so there are still a few empty shop fronts but with names like these, who cares.
George Street
George Street is now the most fabulous shopping street in Edinburgh. Take your pick from Escada, Space NK, Joe Malone, Whistles, Jigsaw, Hobbs, LK Bennett and Jaeger. To say nothing of Scotland's own masters of cool, Cruise. And when you get tired of all that bling, a few steps will take you to some of the city's best bars and restaurants.
Independant Shops
Helen Bateman - To die-for handmade shoes
Arkangel - Edinburgh's own boho fashion extravaganza
Corniche - Cutting edge menswear and womenswear
Boudiche - The sexiest lingerie in a seriously sexy boudoir
Eyes - The funkiest frames at this cool little opticians
Joseph Bonnar - A dazzling collection of antique and period jewellery
Hamilton & Inches - Edinburgh's favourite jeweller
Belinda Robertson - Cashmere to cocoon you
Ian Mellis - An amazing cheese shop
Plaisir du Chocolat - Handmade French chocolate
Hopefully this guide has given you a few ideas for when you are next in Edinburgh shopping.