Because there’s no place quite like the Great British high street – from its niche independents, to seasonal Pop Ups and those expansive yet elegant department stores – Because Magazine is on a mission to champion the bricks-and-mortar of London in all its glory. Each week, we’ll beeline to the rails of our favourite retailers to scope out the must-have pieces and in-store exclusives that are more than worth making an effort for.


This week, we’re at Machine-A – where Assistant, Anna Brimma, is introducing us to her standout picks of the Soho store’s young and established brands.



What… Main-line pullover by Maison Margiela.

Because… This top by John Galliano is super interesting – and kind of reminds me of a jellyfish! When you put it on, it’s really cool: A good “going out” piece that you can layer with a long-sleeved turtle-neck or top. It adds a really interesting element to an outfit as the colour is so unique.



What... Trompe-L’œil printed silk chiffon dress by Peter Do.

Because... Peter Do studied under Phoebe Philo at Céline (as it was then), so all of his pieces are reminiscent of that era. They are really easy to wear: Sophisticated but with a younger edge, which is interesting. He's developed his own signature that includes exclusive fabrics, trompe l’œil prints, cut outs, and knife-pleated styling pieces. This dress is another good layering piece, in that you can be kind of daring and wear it with just underwear underneath, or over a simple black or white outfit. It’s just really beautiful and delicate.



What… Accordion bag by Y-Project.  

Because... This is such an interesting take on a bag silhouette. You can also wear it three different ways, as a cross-body, over the shoulder, and as a hand bag if you make the handles equal length. A massive plus is that it fits quite a lot in it; it’s got a lot of space in there. The classic black and gold detailing makes it really easy to wear, and it’s a nice introduction to the brand.


Support bricks and mortar: Visit Machine-A at 13 Brewer Street, Soho, W1F 0RH.


Also on Because Magazine:

+ Missing London Fashion Week? Relive the poetry of AW19's runways...

+ Jeanne Damas and Lauren Bastide give their style guide to the City of Love.

+ Where do palmer//harding get their fabled shirt dry cleaned? Wouldn't you like to know!