After seeing Rory William Docherty's Australian Fashion Week debut earlier this year, we've confirmed that the New Zealand-based designer is a true arbiter of taste.
So when he offered to divulge all of his best-kept secrets for the places to stay, eat, shop and visit while on a recent trip to London, we couldn't help but agree. Below, Docherty shares his recommendations – from the suburbs he loves to frequent (East London, his old stomping ground), to the best spots for British fish 'n' chips, and the galleries worth a peruse next time you're in town.
Stay ...
East London was my old hood, so I love to revisit there. Greatly gentrified since my time living there, you can find chic boutique hotels or, as I prefer, live like a local with AirBnB.
Eat ...
London has so much on offer, food from every corner of the world. Borough Markets, a sprawling offering of fresh produce, artisan baked goods, delicatessens, cheese and more... You can't beat a corner pub in London for a pint or wine and the British classic fish n chips. We came across Bar Kroketa on Beak St, an ideal quick tasty lunch for the shopping weary.
Do ...
I love visiting the galleries and museums. I highly recommend doing a little research beforehand to see what's on, as there are so many. I like to narrow down, to then allow plenty of time to soak up a few chosen shows.
There are so many smaller galleries, and rotating exhibitions, but this time we spent hours wandering the Tate Modern. I hadn't explored the Tate Modern Switch House by Herzog & de Meuron. A stunning latticed brickwork sculpture that appears to have been pulled upward from the ground twisting toward to the sky. The Tate Britain is always reliable, and never fails to impress. The Victoria and Albert Museum is usually my must go-to, but as timing had it, there was The Personal Collection of Vivienne Westwood on display at Christie's before the auction. A tribute to the queen of punk, with examples from her own wardrobe spanning her career. Walk the city. The Southbank has an array of architecture including the brutalist National Theatre. Take the tube. The efficiency of the London underground is a great way to get around. Perhaps all the galleries were going to my head, but the primary colours felt like a moving Mondrian.
Shop ...
Liberty's is an old favourite. Iconically British, the building is a beautiful stage for an array of products to peruse at a civilised leisurely pace.
Dover Street Market. The original DSM, though long since moved from Dover Street, the concept store continues to curate brands that inspire artful dressing. Though I didn't make it this time, Gentlewench offers a thoughtful selection of brands, joyful and calm. Other key stores which I love are Studio Nicolson, End Clothing, Armelion Dore, Alex Eagle.
Wear ...
The weather is always changeable regardless of the season and varies greatly from shop, to gallery, restaurant to tube. You can't go wrong with a great jacket that can easily be taken on and off, and a classic shirt. Dressed up or down, rumpled or crisp, I have multiple of the Classic Collared Shirt in Japanese papery cotton, perfect for travelling.
