Trips across the pond are now a heavy hit in the wallet thanks to the weakening US dollar. But fashion addicts are in luck, as two of London's major retail draws are becoming available stateside. That's right: in the time it'll take you to save up enough cash to shack up at St. Martin's Lane in London, Topshop will have already hit New York's Soho nabe, enabling you to max out your credit card without the hassle of a seven-hour flight. Even better, Prêtt A Portobello has officially landed on the internets, bringing London's famous Portobello Road Market to your laptop and mine.

Notting Hill's famous market also sells fruits, vegetables, and antique collectibles, but Prêt A Portobello provides us with the real attraction: the fashion. A tightly edited selection of vintage clothes and emerging designs are cherry-picked from a variety of Portobello shops including Dahlia, Toki & Nabi, and Belle de Jour, as well as top tier vintage jewelry from Christian Dior and Kenneth Jay Lane. A flirty, feminine aesthetic prevails, providing the makings of a perfect summer wardrobe.

The best part of going to the market is, of course, being able to bargain your own price. Worry not, hagglers—not to be one-upped by the real Portobello market, the Web site offers the ability to do just that: the "Let's Trade" section allows customers to bid on selected items and bargain with online market traders for a price they're happy to pay. Get ready for your new obsession.

My top picks? The slate gray boyfriend cardigan, Miss Crofton's flirty polkadot knickers, and these groovy, vintage Lanvin pumps. But don't get any ideas. Market rules still apply—these are all mine!

For more information please visit www.pretaportobello.com.

- Krisit Garced

Similar Topics:fashion, London, markets

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