Columnists RSS Feed


Fashion&Style: Living the high life...


With the recession just behind us (we hope!), we thought we’d sprinkle a little luxury into the lives of our fashionable readers.

So what’s its like to spend the day with a personal shopper I went and found out.

This month I hit the high street but this time not to hunt for bargains but to hunt for a special place which offered the ultimate in luxury. Welcome to the world of Harvey Nichols part 1… Set in Manchester on the face this is a haven for any would-be wag, millionaire or person with plenty money to splurge every now and then.

For all you who think Harvey Nicks is only for the rich and famous with wads of cash, think again. I decided to plunge right into my new life of luxury and spent a day with a personal shopper.

Meet Ben. He and the team have over the years styled the likes of Jude Law, Cheryl Cole, Girls Aloud, Take That, Coronations Streets stars, X Factor stars, The Spice Girls, Hollyoaks, the list goes on and now even me! For those of you who have never been to a personal shopping consultation before it’s amazing.

Ben feels they offer a great service not only to stars but for those who aren’t in the limelight “We have quite a few regulars some celebrities and others who just have plenty of money to spend.

“Some clients come as a one-off for instance if they are getting married or if they have to attend a special event. We cater for everyone.

“Many people think Harvey Nichols I won’t be able to afford it but we have things on the rack this season which start off for as little as £90 but then we also have very expensive dresses which are over £2,000.”

A few days before your appointment your Personal Shopper will call you to discuss your requirements.

I explained to Ben I wasn’t able to wear any strapless dresses etc.

I said I wanted three separate outfits one for a lazy summer day, one for a posh event and a casual lets go shopping outfit.

On the day - Once your requirements have been established, a selection of suitable pieces are brought to you in the comfort of the Personal Shopping suite- which I must say is like a walk in wardrobe with wall to wall mirrors.

All my items were laid out perfectly with a rail full of lovely pieces, hanging pearl necklaces, bags, shoes..for me to try on helping to take the legwork out of my shopping trip.

I decided which outfits I liked and which I didn’t and even tried on the best Christian Louboutins.

The only down side I had to leave the Lavin, Moschino and Paul Smith dresses even the gorgeous Louboutins shoes…All because Asian Image was unable to fund my shopping habit!

Service is complimentary, along with refreshments, and there is no minimum spend or any obligation to buy at all.

Your Personal Shopper will also wrap gifts and arrange home delivery.

If you fancy a personal shopping trip why not contact Ben and the team on 0161 828 8886 you can choose a female or male stylist so it is entirely up to you.

I would like to thank Ben, Maya, Jessica and the rest of the team at Harvey Nichols for organising this special day just for us.


Keep warm the chic way Fashion&Style: Living the high life... Fashion&Style: Living the high life...

Fashion&Style: Living the high life...

Fashion&Style: Living the high life...

Fashion&Style: Living the high life...



Most popular


Local Information

Enter your postcode, town or place name

House prices »   Schools »   Crime »   Hospitals »

Local Businesses