Labour of Love

Wandering along Upper Street in Islington is one of my favourite pastimes, although it can be quite painful to fall in love with so many pieces I inevitably have to leave behind. An affordable high street it is not. But sometimes that takes some of the pressure off, you know? If you know you're not going to buy anything you can just enjoy browsing and appreciating the beauty in all the pieces, not just the ones I might buy. But I recently discovered this great boutique, Labour of Love - the clothes are still out of my price range, but there are so many interesting accessories, shoes, and general knick-knacky things that I could snatch up in a heartbeat. The shop itself is one of those spaces that can absorb me for hours of browsing and discovery, like a carefully curated treasure trove. This is not a shop for basics. These are the centrepieces, the artworks, the decoration. Some of these pieces make me rethink my entire style. For example, I have no idea why I love this Manoush dress (and you should've seen the look on Wes' face!)...

This Reem top looks like it at least started life as a basic tank...

But this Back coat is just perfection that I would wear forever and ever...

And imagine all the things I could do with a Gemma Lister collar...

And I don't have to remind you of my love for 'sensible flats'...

Check out their site and online shop, but going there in person is of course a lot more fun. The staff are really cool young hipsters and if only they put a comfy chair in the corner I would love to hang out with them all day!