london | port of call.

it's all glitter and gold in north america right now. but the canadians aren't just resting on their olympic laurels. this month they're out to take over the fashion world with the first ever european ports 1961 boutique, now open in london.

it's been a steady rise to the top for the 1961 label since it stepped onto the scene in 2004. a fave of the social set and film stars, it's always a fixture at events with its sweet little dresses and funky structural jewellery trademarks. keen to see what all the buzz is about? head down and have a peek at the new shop. minimal and mod thanks to new york design firm archi-tectonics, it's the perfect way to say hello to the continent (the crowning jewel is a fab chandelier). something to top the olympic flame perhaps? interiors aside, you mustn't miss the new collection; it's inspired by the lush and tailored outdoor beauty of japan, so expect sculpted silhouettes and uber-soft fabrics. and it doesn't stop there. the ambitious canadians are heading to the other side of the channel next with a paris boutique launching at the end of 2010.

bring it on. the ports 1961 boutique. harvey nichols. 109-125 knightsbridge road, SW1. knightsbridge tube. 020.7235.5000. www.ports1961.com