in my neighbourhood

i try to avoid chain shops and restaurants whenever I can; i feel such institutions are just that and lack character. my shopping mantra is to shop local and green. one thing i've missed since moving to leics are small boutiques that feature local goods. i love the type of shop where you can chat with the owner about what they've got in stock and where it came from and who made it. i delight in finding one-of-a-kind pieces that would never be found on the high street. this, however, seems an easier task in vancouver, where the local indie design scene is thriving. which is why i'm so excited about moving to london, where there are more possiblities to indulge.

i was thrilled to find the independent london store guide. for shopping online, not on the high street is a great source for independent designs. they regularly feature green goods (although i find myself wondering about the natthakur london products--are they made of eco leather?)and until sunday, you can get a free country weekend with your purchase.

despite its limitations, leics is not without a couple of gems: just and the city gallery. just carries a wide range of eco fashion, accessories, food, and household products. i tend to buy most of my jewellery at art galleries, which often boast amazing jewellery and ceramics by local artists (my favourite haunt in downtown vancouver is the VAG gift shop). on that front, leicester's city gallery never disappoints.