Selfridges is the largest department store in Oxford Street, taking up a whole block to itself. Whether it’s bigger than Harrods in terms of floor area is debatable, but it’s close. Selfridges has never been able to quite measure up to the glamour of Harrods, but it certainly tries hard.

Life is made simple for perfume lovers by the fact that the main niche perfumery area is right inside the main doors. This also makes it something of a corridor, as it’s always full of people trying to get through it to get into the main store. The area is also rather dark and cave-like, and perfumes are often shelved around pillars, where it’s easy not to notice them at all.

Despite these disadvantages, the perfume room is worth exploring; Selfridges is often the first to stock exciting lines and the sales assistants are knowledgeable. Beyond the perfume cavern is the beauty hall, where you’ll find perfume brands such as Laura Mercier on sale…

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