As an American PR intern studying in London, I am constantly amazed by the richness and diversity that London offers. The city is renowned back home for its history, buzzing ambiance, myriad of high street fashion and sometimes less than favourable weather conditions! However, I am thrilled to report that I’ve surprised even my most shopping savvy British friends with my marvellous discovery – T Fox & Co – a truly special hidden gem….

Located in The City, T Fox & Co holds the distinction of being London’s oldest umbrella shop, dating back to 1868 when the original founder Thomas Fox first began selling his elegant umbrellas to the gentlefolk of the day, including members of the Royal Family, Presidents and Prime Ministers. Nowadays umbrellas are far from the only thing they have on offer. On stepping into the shop a wonderful smell of leather greets you, the traditional display cases house an exclusive collection of elegant scarves, ties, shoes, bags, coats and many other luxuriously made pieces. Echoing old world values the shop provides a portal back to a time where superior, long-lasting design and quality were paramount. In a world of quick-fix, throwaway fashion, it is a gentle reassurance that craftsmanship and traditional styles have not been lost.

Picking a favourite item was tricky, I could have taken any number of pieces to delight the folks back home, however the Italian knitted ties especially caught my eye. They come in all sorts of colours and offer the perfect traditional-yet-funky twist for the man in your life’s wardrobe. Though if ties aren’t really his thing, or you feel like treating yourself instead, how about a handmade leather bag or a one of a kind umbrella? With the exception of the knitted ties everything in the shop is designed and made in London. These pieces really will last and last and as we have seen this traditional look never really goes out of style, perfect for adding a little heritage chic to an outfit.

The products in the shop are individually crafted by the best in the business, no mass production here, and every item is unique in its own way. As an added bonus anything bought in the shop is either 100% repairable or replaceable, should something go wrong. Where else can you get an assurance, not to mention a great deal, like this?

PRICES: * Umbrellas range from £50-£300 * Leather handbags start from £345 * Silk screened scarves range from £150-£220 * Italian knitted ties £59 * Leather wallets from £40 - £120 * Rain coats – Made to order T. Fox & CO (1868) LTD 118 London wall, London EC2Y 5JA +44 0207 628 1868 www.tfox.co.uk