Harvey Nichols
Known to locals as ‘Harvey Nics’, this up-scale department store is a dreamland for every fashionista and fashionisto. There are five floors of fun to be had, with strategically-placed chic spots for food at the very top. The ground floor is a makeup artist’s playground with all the usual suspects from Mac to Bobbi Brown and Nars. Bag lovers can also spend hours on this floor and hover over this season’s Balenciaga, Chloé, or Marc Jacobs – and that’s just scraping the surface. The first and second floors consist of contemporary and international collections, casual clothes, formal wear, and shoes. Expect to find every luxury fashion name out there and delight in everything from iconic pieces to the more avant-garde. Make sure to appreciate the window displays too – they are always magnificent works of art.
Harvey Nichols, 30-34 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 524 8388
Jenners
Jenners has been one of the main shopping spots of the city since 1838. This swish retail haven is the oldest department store in Edinburgh, and was acquired by House Of Fraser in 2005. The architecture is pleasing to the eye, as are the contents inside. Although it may not contain super luxe high fashion brands, Jenners is an excellent stop for the usual designer contenders. The toy department is a blast from the past and rivals the one in Home Alone 2. Jenners is also a favourite for wedding lists, with its extensive selection of electronics. Make sure to visit during the holiday season – the Christmas tree in the centre is a vision that seems to ascend into the heavens.
Jenners, 48 Princes St, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 225 2442
John Lewis
A visit to John Lewis is always a win-win. Even the pickiest of shoppers will surely be satisfied with the myriad of choices and price ranges. Expect timeless finds in the handbag and shoe department, and the womens and menswear floors offer an abundance of night-out and party pieces too. The kids’ department is more than you could ever want, and the interior and electronics areas are some of the best in Edinburgh. Careful – a day here could result in a brand-new wardrobe and a freshly decorated house.
John Lewis, St James Shopping, St James Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 556 9121
Debenhams
Choose from the Princes Street or Ocean Terminal locations and fulfill all your shopping spree desires at Debenhams. These guys have nailed it in the trend stakes and have this way of oozing stylish vibes without breaking the bank. Expect all the usual department store gadgets, gizmos and mod cons in the electronics section, and believe it or not, this place is good for kitchenware too. Think of Debenhams as timeless, safe and guaranteed to make everyone happy.
Debenhams, 109 Princes St, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 844 561 6161
Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer (or Marks & Sparks) is British to the core. Where else can you find top-notch grocery items and get a gorgeous dress at the same time? It is no secret that M&S are famous for having a stellar selection of lingerie and underwear too; English rose supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley raised the knicker stats and made heads swivel when she launched her exquisite line there in 2012. Browse to find cosy cashmere sweaters, fabulous shoes and a brilliant beauty range. Looking for a timeless, good-quality winter coat that doesn’t cost a month’s rent? This is the place.
Marks & Spencer, 54 Princes St, Edinburgh, Scotland +44 131 225 2301
By Tori Chalmers