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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Lifestyle
Abha Shah and Peter Bevan

The ES Shopping Shortlist: What to shop, see and know in May 2023

Welcome to our monthly need-to-know list of all the latest and greatest releases that should be on your radar.

Here at ES Best, we’ve constantly got our ears to the ground on the lookout for the newest fashion, events, and food and drink, so you don’t have to.

With a full time job, busy social life, and ever-growing Instagram feed, it can be hard to keep up with all the newness out there. From sell-out collections, to limited edition collaborations, with exclusive events and brand new store unveilings in between, we’ve got you covered so you don’t miss out on a thing.

If you’re ever at a loss of something to do on the weekend, or need to scratch the retail therapy itch, we’ll be keeping this page up-to-date all month long; best to add it to your bookmarks so you’ve got the insider’s guide right at your fingertips.

Now spring is getting into its stride, the evenings are lighter, the weather’s brightening up and we’re all gearing up for summer - so it’s the best time to update your wardrobe for the season ahead or invest in some homeware or garden furniture to spruce up your space.

With the Coronation bank holiday weekend fast approaching, Eurovision in hot pursuit, and festival season poised to kick off, there’s plenty to celebrate this month. Just keep scrolling to find out the pieces you need on your May wishlist.

Ready, set - shop!

Vodafone offers customers a chance to win tickets to BST Hyde Park

British Summer Time at Hyde Park is one of the hottest weekends of the summer, and now Vodafone users have a chance to get in on the action - for free.

The network is giving away 225 pairs of tickets to watch 2023 headliners which will include the likes of P!NK and legendary rock and rollers Gun N’ Roses. To be in with a chance you’ll need to play the instant win game on Vodafone’s VeryMe Rewards app with the competition on until June 4.

So, what are you waiting for?

Buy now, Vodafone

Percival Linen La Vida Lido

Menswear favourite Percival has released its latest summer-ready capsule collection, Linen La Vida Lido, that’s full of pieces we’re adding straight to our basket.

From linen co-ords to towelling polos, lightweight blazers to seersucker two-pieces, it’s for the sartorially-conscious gent who wants to looks their best when the sun starts to shine.

It’s easy to visualise the warm months ahead when you see the upbeat campaign fronted by Kola Bokinni, star of Ted Lasso and Top Boy.

Buy now, Percival

SCRT Lost In Translation

Calling all film buffs! London-based label SCRT will satisfy your cravings for all things cult classic with their pieces inspired by our favourite movies - from American Psycho to A Clockwork Orange. This time, it’s Lost In Translation - and it’s made its way to the top of our May wishlist.

Even better, the brand’s playful SS23 collection that takes inspiration from the outdoor world, including London Fields itself, is all we want to wear this summer. The only problem? You’ll want everything.

Buy now, SCRT

Rouje Store Opening

Cult favourite fashion label Rouje has opened its first store outside of its home country France - and, luckily, founder Jeanne Damas chose London as the first outpost.

Head to 51 South Molton Street to browse the collections that ooze the classic Parisian nonchalance the brand is so famous for.

And, if you can’t make it, you can browse the collections online, instead.

Buy now, Rouje

Vinterior pops up at Selfridges

The national shift towards maintaining, buying and celebrating second hand furniture has won Vinterior a spot in one of the UK's biggest department stores.

In an effort to boost its circular shopping efforts, Selfridges is hosting a pop-up of the store where shoppers can inspect everything from home accessories to lighting and furniture with prices from £25. The pop-up will run until July 17, so there’s plenty of time to get down there and check out the stunning selection.

Sustainable shopping never looked so good.

Buy now, Selfridges

Good American Denim Daze

Once you try Good American’s denim, you’ll never look back. The good news? This summer Khloe Kardashian’s label has released an entirely new range of light wash jeans, denim shorts and skirts, as well as quality basics, so all of your warm-weather ‘fits are taken care of.

As usual the collection is available in a comprehensive range of sizes, from US 00 to US 26 PLUS.

Prices start at £89.

Buy now, Good American

Damson Madder SS23

For the first time, streetwear label Damson Madder has launched an entirely unisex range. In the label’s trademark style, it’s a positive collection that’s full of colour and energy and includes the likes of printed t-shirts, camp collar shirts, sweater vests and track pants.

Prices start at £35.

Buy now, Damson Madder

Herschel Supply Heritage Hardshell collection

You may already be familiar with Herschel’s collection of popular backpacks. Well, this summer, they’ve released a range of hardshell luggage that lives up to the rep - just in time for holiday szn.

Crafted using at least 70 per cent recycled materials, it’s an eco-friendly choice that’s available in four sizes and five colours. Even better, every piece is performance-tested with weighted drop tests and cycle tests so they’re guaranteed to last. Whichever you choose, it’s sure to be your vacation companion for years to come.

Prices start at £240.

Buy now, Herschel

RIXO cuts the ribbon on its new flagship store

Can't get enough of Rixo? You're not alone - we would live in the collection if we could. Now the brand has moved into a huge new home on the King’s Road, bringing together the entire offering under one chic roof. We're talking rentals and pre-loved items sitting alongside brand new collections, and bridalwear to boot. Whether you're browsing or meeting friends for coffee or cocktails in the in-house bars, it's a stunning space that won't fail to leave you feeling inspired.

Buy now, RIXO

The Conran Shop X Collagerie

Founders of London-based label Collagerie, British Vogue alumni Lucinda Chambers and Serena Hood, have teamed up with homeware expert The Conran Shop on a second collaboration - and we want everything.

You can expect cushions, rugs, tablescaping pieces and lighting, all in the brand’s signature bold colour combinations. The statement you never knew your home needed.

Prices start at £35.

Buy now, The Conran Shop

Gentle Monster BOLD Collection

Now the sun’s tentatively putting its hat on, it’s finally time for some new sunnies - and you can count on Gentle Monster for a unique, contemporary design that’s sure to garner many a compliment throughout the season.

Within their new BOLD collection, you could choose one of the more avant garde designs or stick to a crowdpleasing oval or rectangular silhouette instead.

Prices start at £265.

Buy now, Gentle Monster

Natural History Museum X Jurassic Park

Welcome to Jurassic Park.

Well, maybe not quite Jurassic Park, but just about as close as you can get, because The Natural History Museum has opened an entire themed store full of nostalgic memorabilia as a celebration of 30 years since the first film. And, where better for the task than the home of hundreds of rare specimens of the very creatures included in the 90s hit movies?

Available at the South Kensington museum or online until September 2023, you can cop t-shirts, games and toys, all themed on the blockbuster franchise.

Prices start at £5.

Buy now, Natural History Museum

Roam launches skin tone condoms

Skin tone inclusivity has gone from hoisery, bras and shapewear to now... condoms.

Sexual wellness brand Roam has launched prophylactics in a palette of four nude and brown hues to "celebrate individuality and provide a choice for customers" who want to look and feel seamless in the sack.

Sold in a 12 pack, the sheaths are super thin, ultra-durable (triple tested) and vegan to boot. Consider the checklist ticked, and then some.

Buy now £15.00, Boots

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