Selfridges on Oxford Street is one of the most famous department stores in London.

It was founded in 1909 by Harry Gordon Selfridge, an American from Chicago who had learned the trade and made his fortune working for the Marshall Fields chain.

From the beginning, Selfridges was known for their innovative retail style, placing merchandise on display within the reach of the customer, and going to great lengths to create an atmosphere of fun and enjoyment.

The store played host to educational and scientific exhibits, all in an attempt to capture the public’s interest and draw them into the store, and it worked; Selfridges has been a success since its earliest days.

Another important part of its success is the inclusive atmosphere of the store, which was a refreshing change.

While other big retailers might pay deference towards the “carriage trade” of upper class customers, Selfridges was the place where everyone was welcome.

Young or old, wealthy or working class, you were sure to be treated with the same level of courtesy and excellent customer service.

Today Selfridges is owned by Galen Weston, a Canadian retailing expert, and the Chief Executive is Paul Kelly, an employee who has worked for the company since the 1980s.

Selfridges is known for their fine fashion collections, with “mini shops” within the store.

Ferragamo, Prada, Gucci, and Cartier have shops as do many other famous design houses.

Selfridges has an interesting selection of trendy new designer clothing, much of it British.

They have an impressive selection of handbags, from designers like Marc Jacobs and Balenciaga.

Selfridges has established a Wonder Room, a collection of the fine and rare from all over the world and it adjoins the Wonder Bar, so you can get a glass of champagne or fine wine to sip as you ponder what to purchase.

There are many places to eat in the store, everything from café to fine dining to food court.

Selfridges on Oxford Street is a wonderful place to shop, sightsee, or just get a snack.

Visiting Selfridges

Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, Marylebone, W1U 1AB

Telephone: 0800 123 400

Email connect@selfridges.co.uk

Opening Times

Mon to Sat 9.30am-9pm, Sun 12noon-6pm

Photo courtesy: Loz Flowers

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