Object of desire...

There can’t be many shops that have received the distinction of being commemorated by the Royal Mint striking a coin in its honour. Not just any coin, but a £5 model, either in plain gold at £3,965, o

Animated by two profound love affairs, Gabrielle Chanel established a symbiotic connection with Britain that remains a source of inspiration for the maison a century on

Graceful and practical in equal measure, the parasol has a long and colourful history when it comes to creating shade. Deborah Nicholls-Lee takes cover

How India, and a literary socialite, inspired Cartier’s most vibrant creation

This year the iconic London store Liberty celebrates its 150th anniversary. Acclaimed for its quirky, imaginative style – and renowned for its sumptuous, printed fabrics – a century and a half on the

So ever-present you might not even notice them, these fabrics have an enduring appeal. Kassia St Clair reflects on their 4,500-year-old history