The mall has space for quirks too, including a tongue-in-cheek fancy dress shop and a whole lot of edgy clothes stores.
Pulp, Lower ground floor
Stop off here for band tees and merch, bright-coloured skinny jeans, rockabilly-style shoes and some bold slogan T-shirts from brands such as Glamour Kills – the one sporting the words “fantasy > reality” is our personal favourite – and David & Goliath – think the most kitch of cartoons.
Party Fiesta, Lower ground floor
Planning a big party? This has all the festive supplies you need, with masks, fancy dress costumes – any Halloween outfit you can think of, even a zombie chef – and a whole lot of decorations. You’ll find rotating disco balls, party sweets, bright garlands and flags, plus pinatas in all shapes and sizes. But the best bits are the Balloon Club – where they custom-make helium balloons displays to fit your party’s theme – and a make-up station, where you can get your face painted to match your costume.
Foot Asylum, Ground floor
If your idea of a good T-shirt is one that sports Jay-Z’s mug covered in doodles of a moustache and glasses, you’re in luck. This men’s and women’s clothing and shoe store stocks the best loud hip-hop trainers, the brightest Doc Martens boots (think floral print, patent and metallic purple) in every colour of shoe-lace under the sun and statement clothes from brands like Projekts NYC, Amplified and Anticulture.
footasylum.com
Fashion Rocks, Ground floor
Even if you haven’t got enough cash to buy any of the designer gear at Fashion Rocks, it’s still worth checking out. The store holds events that mix culture and fashion for a truly conceptual experience. Then, when you inevitably spot something you love, you can wait for the sales.
Vero Moda, First floor
Mannequins with wolves’ heads sport the womenswear in this bright, busy store, which includes hot autumnal floral designs, cosy winter coats, animal prints and some lush autumn knits. This may not be London’s first Vero Moda, but it’s still got its edge. For those with a daring streak, lace collars, high-shine leggings and tie-dye jeggings can also be found in store. Prices are good – expect to pay about £30 for dresses and trousers and £20-£25 for tops. We’ll have three of each, please.