Top Ten Fresher's Fashion Edinburgh

If you're looking for cosy hoodies, baggy jeans and other casual essentials then get yourself to North Bridge

Feature by Leigh Miller | 13 Sep 2006

If you've left London, or any other fashion mecca of the world to study in Bonnie Scotland, fear not. It's not all kilts and Fair Isle sweaters north of the border. (Although tartan is a key trend this Autumn/Winter, so don't totally disregard!). We've put together the top ten style spots so you can make the grade in the style stakes.

Edinburgh

Best for… Vintage
WM Armstrong & Son
83 The Grassmarket, EH1 2HH Tel. 0131 220 5557
For incredible vintage finds, look no further than Armstrong's. The legendary vintage vault stocks all that glitters from every era. So if you're after some spectacular second-hand stuff, hot foot it to Armstrong's.

Best for… Shoes
Office
79a Princes Street, EH2 2ER Tel. 0131 220 4296
We know there's one in practically every city in the UK. But let's face it, where else can you get high-fashion footwear for high street prices? And whether you're after some trusty Converse or up-to-the-second heels, you'll find it in Office.

Best for… Lingerie
Boudiche
15 Frederick Street, EH2 2EY Tel. 0131 226 5255
If M&S undies just aren't going to cut it then look no further then sultry lingerie boutique, Boudiche. With an amazing selection including Damaris and Spoylt you'll have no trouble finding that oh-so-sexy something. Be prepared to stretch that overdraft though…!

Best for… Blowing the Budget
Arkangel
4 William Street, EH3 7NH Tel. 0131 226 4466
This hidden gem is tucked away in the West End. If boho's your bag then you'll love the cute one-offs available at Arkangel. Butler & Wilson accessories sit with pretty Ginka dresses - and with very little like it in Edinburgh, there's little chance you'll see anyone else in the same thing.

Best for… New Talent
Godiva
9 Westport, EH1 2JA Tel. 0131 221 9212
If you're keen to stay one step ahead of the fash-pack then head to Godiva in The Grassmarket. A mix of vintage and one-off pieces as well as collections from ECA graduates, if you prefer your style to be a little less mainstream you can't go wrong with Godiva.

Best for… Brights
Cookie
29a-31 Cockburn Street, Tel. 0131-622 7260
Fifties dresses? Check! Pretty prints? Check! If you're into anything but drab then you're sure to find something at Cookie. If you're looking to make a bit of a statement then you ought to find the right thing at here. And if you like brands like Religion, you won't be disappointed!

Best for… Designer Bargains
TK Maxx
Unit 4/5, Meadowbank Retail Park, EH7 5TS Tel: 0131 661 6611
Champagne tastes, cider budget? There's always TK Maxx for brilliant bargains. Designer goodies at cut prices, it's great for undies, jeans, bags and shoes. And with new stock arriving all the time, you're sure to find something new with every visit.

Best for… Jeans
Flip
59-61 South Bridge, EH1 1LS, Tel 0131 556 4966
Flip have been peddling second-hand Levis for just about forever. And with good reason. With skinny jeans taking a back seat for a while, Levi 501s have had a bit of a resurrection and Flip has them in abundance. If you fancy yourself as a bit of a rockabilly, you'll love Flip. And so will your pocket!


Best for… Casual
Cult Clothing
7-9 North Bridge, EH1 1SB Tel. 0131 556 5003
If you're looking for cosy hoodies, baggy jeans and other casual essentials then get yourself to North Bridge. Stocking brands like Carhaart, Superdry, Paul's Boutique and Putsch, Cult's streets ahead when it comes to streetwear.

Best for… Trainers
Sole
16 The Walk, EH1 3DQ Tel. 0131 556 6660
There's only one way to get around Edinburgh, and with buses costing a pound a pop - that's by foot! So you'll have to get yourself some comfy trainers. But that's no reason to sacrifice on style. Sole stock all kinds of brands and their limited editions for you to stay one step ahead of the rest.