Madewell

I’m in New York this week on a very last-minute getaway which is turning out to be so much fun! As well as huge amounts of aimless but enjoyable wandering, taking in some shows (War Horse and The Book of Mormon are both amazing!), I’ve been of course shopping it up and stocking up on all the goodies I can’t get in Hong Kong.

One of my newest discoveries (new to me anyway) is the brand Madewell. Apparently now owned by J. Crew, I’ve become a total addict, hitting up both the Soho and 5th Avenue Flagship store and dropping a little more cash there than I’d care to admit… I caught my baby daughter munching on half of a Madewell receipt yesterday and instead of being horrified I actually appreciated her doing her bit to help mummy hide the evidence!

The best thing about Madewell is that all the items are quality basics, done really well, which will fit into nearly everyone’s casual wardrobe and become that indispensable item that you can’t do without. From tanks that are perfectly cut to flatter and skim, to cute dresses that can be dressed up or down, to the best fitting jeans for the price bracket that I’ve come across so far. Colours and prints are interesting, and the stores are laid out so that you can see how to put items and accessories together to create a modern capsule wardrobe. The pieces all have a nod to fashion, but aren’t tied to a particular season or look, meaning I can imagine wearing them for years. Seen on celebs with impeccable style like Alexa Chung and Rachel Bilson, Madewell certainly seems to have a fashion seal of approval.

Unfortunately Madewell aren’t yet shipping to Hong Kong (um, hello?!) though they’re looking to address this very soon according to their website. In the meantime, get your Japanese friends to place the order for you, as they do ship there. And, more reason for me to stock up while I’m here!

www.madewell.com