Yesterday, I took an extended stroll through Kensington & Chelsea to visit The Shop At Bluebird. Although I’ve been having rather mixed feelings about West London since I moved here two years ago, I must admit the shopping experience is far superior in this part of town than it is anywhere else! Firstly because of the abundance of smaller boutiques and secondly because of the wonderfully curated selection of items in the larger stores. I paid a visit to Brompton Cross at the weekend to see what the fuss was about and wasn’t disappointed – Acne, Carven, J.Crew and a few others have moved to Pelham Street or nearby… But back to the matter at hand: Bluebird. I am not sure why I haven’t written about it before as it is one of those perfect places in London where I like wasting time.
It used to be the home of Bluebird Motor Company when it was first built in 1923 (designed by Robert Sharp). At the time, it was one of the biggest garages in Europe, with enough space for 300 cars in the showroom. Now if you try and visualise 300 cars worth of space and replace cars with clothes from all your favourite designers, plus some extra special homewares, cult beauty products and a library, you get the current incarnation of Bluebird.
The boutique was actually given a total makeover earlier this week, so even if you are a regular Bluebird bird, go over there and check it out, even if you just end up having a cappuccino in their café and a little browse around the newly opened bookstore.
The Shop At Bluebird
350 King’s Rd, London SW3 5UU
The newly opened bookstore
that immediately went to the top of my wishlist. I think they will LOVE Los Angeles.
There is no tea party like a tea party.
All the scented candles you will ever need.
Comme des Garçons spots and Comme des Garçons stripes.
Plenty of home decor inspiration in there too… Most of the furniture on display is for sale.
Wall of curiosities behind the till