It’s that time of year again! The Christmas lists are written and now all you need to do is brave the wintry conditions and make your way to the shops. But where to start? We’ve been there before as well. But fear no more as we’ve carefully compiled the best list of shops for all budgets.
John Lewis
Known for its iconic Christmas adverts and all-round 10/10 festive spirit, John Lewis feels like the best place to start. The phrase ‘something for everyone’ probably gets over-used in hospitality and retail but that really is the case at John Lewis with their beauty range on one floor and then directly above you’ll find the children’s section and below menswear and technology. It really is impossible to leave empty-handed from John Lewis.
And if you need a little break from the shopping then John Lewis is the place to be, with an option of two cafes; Jo and the Juice providing the goods.
Address: 70 S John St, Liverpool L1 8BJ
Affordability rating: 4.5/5
Polo Ralph Lauren
This season Ralph Lauren has gone back to their roots and has brought back their old school Americana style clothes, with a contemporary twist. Anyone who is familiar with Ralph Lauren knows that they specialise in their wool-knit Teddy Bear motif jumpers and they make the perfect present for men and women, making sure to keep you warm during the winter months.
Notorious for their menswear Ralph Lauren always has an amazing selection of smaller gifts including wallets and after-shaves making it one of the go-to present-buying shops this Christmas.
Address: 8 Peter’s Ln, Liverpool L1 3DE
Affordability rating: 3.5/5
The White Company
After even the first step inside the White Company, you simply won’t want to leave. You’ll be welcomed by the fragrant scent of their almost never-ending selection of candles (that you’re more than welcome to sample before choosing which to purchase). As you venture further into the store you’ll also find a variety of perfumes and clothes, making sure you won’t leave empty-handed.
By this point, you’ve probably already secured the perfect gift for your mum this Christmas and the kind staff at The White Company and to make your shopping experience that little bit better, they also offer free Christmas gift wrapping, what’s not to love?
Address: 9 Peter’s Ln, Liverpool L1 3DE
Affordability rating: 3/5
Utility
Lured in by their stunning range of posters in the windows, you’ll certainly want to stay after stepping inside Utility. Are you looking for a gift for that friend that’s always hard to buy for? Then worry no more, as Utility has you covered.
Utility is always brimming with quirky gifts with everything from miniature desk top cacti to lava lamps, and if you’re looking for something more substantial they are always well stocked with a carefully selected range of furniture.
Address: 40 S John St, Liverpool L1 8BN
Affordability rating: 5/5
Outsiders Store
As the name suggests Outsiders Store serves up some of the best clothes and climbing equipment for those of us who like to spend our time braving the elements, but Outsiders Store is way more than just your standard climbing shop.
With both men’s and women’s ranges, you could easily lose track of the time as you browse the rails sifting through brands such as Carhartt and Patagonia but you’ll also be able to find lesser-known labels like Japanese brand Montbell that is very hard to get your hands on in the UK.
Outsiders Store is also handily located near some of Liverpool’s most loved independent restaurants and cafes providing you with the perfect mid-shopping respite. Our pick of the bunch has to be Mother, which is just one minute away.
Address: 5-11 Slater St, Liverpool L1 4BW
Affordability rating: 4/5
Red Run Activewear
Do you know someone who’s always in activewear, but they’re hard to buy for? Then Red Run Activewear is the place for you. Having recently opened the doors to their new Liverpool One store for the first time a couple of months ago they’ve become hugely popular and if early signs are a good indication then Red Run Activewear is definitely one to keep an eye on as they’ve burst onto the activewear scene.
What’s more, thanks to their sustainability commitment you’ll also be buying from somewhere that builds their clothes to last, helping to put an end to our one-wear wardrobes.
Address: 14 Manesty’s Ln, Liverpool
Affordability rating: 3/5
Vintage Standards
If you’re buying for that person that is sustainability obsessed then you have to go to the Vintage Store. With their rails always filled to the brim you certainly won’t struggle to find something in here.
Stocking both men’s and women’s vintage clothes, not only will you be doing your bit for the planet by shopping here but you’ll also be able to shop retro styles that just can’t be seen in other places.
If it’s your first time buying vintage then don’t worry as all clothes go through a thorough cleaning process before hitting the shelves ready for you to buy.
Address: 60-62 S John St, Liverpool
Affordability rating: 5/5
Once you’ve finished your shopping for the day why not take advantage of Liverpool’s Christmas markets and events? Our personal favourite is Bar Hutte which is conveniently placed in Chavasse Park providing you with all your usual festive favourite food and drink choices to really get you in that Christmas mood before the big day approaches.
