As a big James Perse clothing fan struggling to find a particular basic cotton elastane vest I love online when I saw the James Perse store on Walton St, Brompton Cross Village in between Chelsea and Knightsbridge, London and there was loads of parking conveniently directly outside I immediately screeched to a halt and was drawn into the lovely intimate boutique where I met Agnes from Lithuania ready and waiting to help me in my quest.

Within a few minutes she had found the illusive item in stock in my size and swiftly departed up stairs to find it.

There is something unbeatable about the experience shopping in a proper shop. A place where you immediately feel comfortable, not watched, left alone to browse and not remotely uncomfortable. Knowing help is at hand if you need it. I sometimes dread entering a small space feeling immediately under pressure but not here. The atmosphere was very relaxed. I didn’t try on in this case as I was buying something I already have a few of but I am sure if I had had time to peruse the stock, really enjoy the experience and have a bit of a proper shop Agnes would have been the perfect person on hand to help. Way better than buying a load of things online you cannot see and touch, let alone try on, end up making a load of mistakes and having to send everything back.

My experience in James Perse was great. I found out James Perse himself is very hands on with the brand, Agnes told me she had already met him a few times and he was very involved with the store design too which embodied California lifestyle in this store. it was good to hear her speak highly of the company and tell me she enjoyed working there. As I entered I was greeted by a surf board and the Cali vibes were definitely felt in the airy feeling, muted tones, hard wood floors and open garden courtyard at the back of the shop.

The whole design is complimented by comfortable simple Scandinavian style furniture and black and white beach scenes.

The whole experience in James Perse was a pleasure and I would recommend anyone interested in quiet luxury basics, ethically produced to pay this shop a visit.

At a time when fashion is going through so much transition, the amount of stock being produced is diminishing as brands struggle to navigate a changing market it is great to see a brand like James Perse still delivering for customers who love and are loyal to this brand.

Thanks to you Agnes who made me want to return to this particular James Perse shop in London.