While our official royal wedding invitation got lost in the mail (What's that? Yours did too?), that doesn't mean we can't indulge in our favourite brands from Cool Britannia. While we could go on for days about the great buys at places like Primark or grocery shopping at Sainsbury's, these British brands are readily available on this side of the pond. No need to check the mail, here's your invitation to shop.


1. Whistles This high street brand focuses on stocking shoppers' closets with the perfect trouser, must-have dresses as well as the most luxurious knitwear. And just who shops at Whistles? Kate Middleton for one is a fan, and well with a fan like that who cares who else shops there?
Whistles Zebra Scribble Dress C$151.39 (sale)

2. Jemma Kid Started by formal model Kidd, who’s also a countess, natch, this beauty brand isn't just about selling makeup, it has a training academy for make up artists or ladies wanting to learn better application. Kidd’s products are no fuss, and perfect for practical gals who want their makeup to cover more than one task. Her JK Jemma Kid collection is available exclusively at Target, while her main line Jemma Kidd is at Bloomingdale's.
JK Jemma Kidd Catwalk Eye Makeup Kit US$26.00

3. Jonathan Saunders A fairly young designer, Saunders pieces are body conscious and consistently feature beautiful textiles. These are dresses for girls who still go out dancing on weeknights, though ladies who prefer lunch will find some totally respectable pieces for taking their tea.
Jonathan Saunders Long Sleeve Floral Totem Dress C$427.44

4. Butter London Founding Creative Director Nonie Creme dreams up the most beautiful colours that spark nail trends around the globe where her work can be seen on runways and in editorials. Plus, all the colours have great UK-centric names like Frilly Knickers, Dahling and, of course a current fave inspired by the bride-to-be, No More Waity, Katie. Butter London can be found at Holt Renfrew and other beauty boutiques here in Canada.
Butter London 3 Free Lacquer in British Racing Green US$14.00

5. Rodial Cellulite smoothers, spray tans and masks that look like tar but cleanse your pores, this British beauty brand isn’t just about smart creams and sprays, it also has meal replacements with snappy names like Tummy Tuck Sticks or Crash Diet Smoothie that sound like something Bridget Jones would’ve taken while dating Daniel Cleaver. Rodial products are starting to make they’re way to this side of the pond with a selection now available at Murale and the Bay.
Rodial Glamoxy Snake Serum Pen C$95.00


1. Boots No7 We can remember going to Boots as a little kid, but while the stand alone stores closed in Canada decades ago (gulp, we’re that old), the brand lives on in the UK and its well priced and quality beauty brand No7 can be picked up at Shoppers Drug Mart here.
No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Beauty Serum C$29.00

2. Anya Hindmarch Quirky chic is how we’d describe the lady who launched a bag frenzy in 2007 with her I’m Not A Plastic Bag bag. From sumptuous leather handbags, to cute makeup bags and canvas totes, this two decades old company delivers on unique pieces that'll add personality to your closet aka British eccentricity.
Anya Hindmarch Boat Bag US$135.00

3. Joe Malone From fragrance and bath oils to candles and linen sprays, we love to envelope ourselves in these scents any way we can. The lux brand is over 15-years old and available around the world, here in Canada it can be purchased at Holt Renfrew.
Jo Malone Amber & Lavender Bath Oil US$65.00

4. Cutler and Gross It’s funny to think this eyewear brand is only thirty years old, it feels like one of those brands that would have been outfitting royals for generations. With their timeless pieces they certainly don’t feel stodgy or establishment but one of those rare companies that ooze "good breeding" as we imagine the British would say.
Cutler and Gross Oval-frame Acetate Sunglasses US$450.00

5. Topshop Our OG UK obsession. While the brand has been in the US for a few years now, and a small selection is currently on offer in a handful of Canadian boutiques, we're looking forward to the huge selection that will be available at the Bay, likely this fall. The dress above is so close to an homage to the classic HBC stripe, seems like we’re not the only ones excited. In the meantime, you can of course shop online.
Topshop Multi Deckchair Stripe Racer Back Maxi Dress US$60.00

What's your favourite British brand?