A Fashion Lover's Guide To Edinburgh

If you swear by the latest trends and live for runway ready attire, then Harvey Nics is the place for you. From Alexander McQueen and Christopher Kane to Victoria Beckham and Alexander Wang, expect chic wares from all the big name designers. Start on the first floor amidst the beauty and accessories and work your way up to contemporary and casual wear. The eateries at the top make for a fizz-infused shopping pit stop with exceptional city views.

A Scottish boutique for contemporary high fashion, Cruise is the perfect size for a quick fashion pick-me-up. If athleisure is your mantra and chilled kicks your style, there’s definitely something here. Revellers can expect an array of cutting-edge fashion by lines like Helmut Lang, Tom Ford, Vince and Malene Birger. When craving luxury brands but find yourself overwhelmed with department stores, look no further.

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Jane Davidson is a sanctuary of sartorial sweets and fail-safe fashion-forward finds for those who dream in bespoke wares. From the well-known names to the lesser heard of (but prestigious) designers, Jane D is a magnet for those who like their clothes as cultured as their city. Knowledgeable staff can give you the style low-down in their sleep and the serene interiors — think cosy Scottish fireplace — create a calm shopping vibe.

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It’s amazing what a good pair of jeans can do. But first, you must find them! Easing the inevitable pains that go hand in hand with finding that perfect fit, ALC is a one-stop shop for all your denim desires. Standout lines include Hudson, Joe’s Jeans and Paige, while additional clothing lines like Swedish brand Twist & Tango, make the dream partner to denim.

For design-led Scandi style, pay a visit to Kakao By K. Nestled away on Thistle Street, this gem has high end boutique qualities at more appealing prices, resulting in a win-win shopping spree. Expect elegant staples and a fab selection of statement pieces. The smaller items make perfect gifts for fashion lovers too.

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Epitome is the epicentre of all things cool. Understated and unpretentious, style enthusiasts can take their pick from the wondrous spread of brands from the avant-garde to the timeless. Broadening the horizon of distinctive clothing options, this hip boutique steers clear of trend-led fashion with the eclectic assortment of styles. Craftsmanship, design prowess and longevity reign free with every piece.

Frontiers Boutique is an oasis of expertly curated style. The cunning selection of mens and womens brands — some British, others European — exude a strong sense of effortless pizzazz. Between the regular new stock and laid-back store environment, Frontiers Boutique oversteps the confines of trend-led fashion, creating clothes with enviable personality.

Tucked away amidst the flurry of specialty shops on Victoria Street, Swish is a hip haven of funky finds. Those with a fancy for arty, graphic tees with a hipster flair will fall head over heels. Whether a printed shirt, simple dress, German-made backpack or standout mens bomber, Swish has you sorted.

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Whether understated or show-stealing, every outfit needs an accessory. This artsy independent boutique champions indie designers, resulting in an addictive assortment of expertly designed jewellery. Anticipate unique pieces far from your typical high street finds. The handcrafted necklaces, earrings, rings, brooches and bracelets are just as alluring as the crafty window displays.

For clothes with commendable morals, Godiva is the only place worth considering. A glistening example of forward thinking fashion and a giant leap in the right direction, this gallery-style boutique plays host to an impressive array of ethically created made-to-measure pieces, indie designer finds and pre-loved vintage fashion – all at affordable prices. Perfect for those with a conscience and discerning eye for out-the-box style.

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An Edinburgh sartorial institution, Armstrongs is an empire of all things vintage. Within this maze of pre-loved finds lurk dashing wares from all the memorable decades. Imagine a cave of granny’s old-school cardis, loud 70s miniskirts, hip 90s clothes and flannel shirts a-plenty. Perfect for parties and those who know what they want in a carefully constructed outfit, Armstrongs is the vintage wardrobe you wish you had.

Those Were The Days is a true closet of clothing curiosities from all your favourite eras. Relive those glory days and enjoy a blast from the past with every vintage outfit tried on. Swoon over retro Chanel masterpieces and fanciful accessories fit for a 60s siren. A vintage paradise, shopping here never gets old.

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Rollo could not be more fitting to those post-retail debauchery moments that call for a brew or too. This dynamite eatery and wine bar is woven with fashion-forward interiors and stylish folk. The booze list is on point and the food tapas in style. So chic.

After tending to that sartorial appetite, satiate those culinary cravings with an impeccably cooked steak at Kyloe. Gourmet through and through and fabulously furnished, this swish steak joint uses pedigree Aberdeen Angus from fine Scottish farms. The breathtaking Castle views are the beret on top.

Badger & Co., with its game changing interiors and knock out tastes, is a magnet for trendy fashion tribes out to have a good time. The around-the-clock convivial atmosphere makes this hip hangout the perfect mid-retail therapy drink and nibble spot.

Bramble is a bastion of Edinburgh’s bar scene. Expect cocktails craftier than your latest outfit and an ambience to match. The subterranean setting and strategic dim lighting adds to the allure. Throw in the slew of irresistible tunes and the rest is history.

Tigerlily is hard to beat when looking for a desirable night out. This swanky bar is renowned for playing host to crowds of style gurus and creatives alike. Indulge in a sumptuous menu, devour decadent drinks and after, let your hair down until the wee hours of the morning in the great clubs dotted along George Street .

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