From waiting lists to unboxing: the bizarre world of beauty Advent calendars

Forget chocolate – this year brands including Nars, Glossybox and Mac are counting down to Christmas with cosmetics. But are they really worth the (often hefty) pricetag?

The UK’s 30 best fashion boutiques

If you are looking for something special, head to one of Britain’s finest independent fashion stores where you’ll find handpicked collections and friendly advice. Here is our top 30

The ridiculous rise of luxury advent calendars – from £500 beauty boxes to pork scratchings

In the countdown to Christmas, chocolates don’t cut it any more. This year has brought an avalanche of offerings – with cosmetics and drinks brands and shops such as Selfridges and Liberty pitching extravagant surprises at adult buyers

Santa comes to Selfridges early – and he’s everywhere

From setting off confetti cannons to unveiling more than a dozen festive windows, Oxford Street’s top draw launches its Christmas campaign

Bicester Village: top UK tourist attraction and shopping Shangri-la

Bargains, glamour and its own railway station – no wonder Bicester is one of Britain’s top tourist attractions, says Eva Wiseman

Is a Google hangout personal shopper any good?

Dean Kissick loves clothes but is less keen on the actual shopping. Could a new interactive personal shopping experience from Topman be the answer, or would Mr Porter’s high-end offering be more up his street?