Where else to buy something special

Launched by Joe Corre (son of Vivienne Westwood) in 1994. It was the first brand to mix lingerie and fashion. Since then it has gone on to create books, games, shoes, jewellery, nightwear, beachwear and a fragrance and beauty line. Expect to pay from £50 for a bra and £30 for knickers. Agent Provocateur's Salon Rose line for Marks & Spencer is a cheaper alternative.

Ann Summers
79 Wardour Street, W1 (020 7434 2475) and branches

Originally started by Ann Summers in 1970, but managing director and chief executive Jacqueline Gold (daughter of porn baron David Gold) joined Ann Summers in 1981 and went on to make it the best-known sex shop in Britain. Last year pre-tax profits rose by 19 per cent to £8.9 million. Prices start at under a tenner.

Myla
77 Lonsdale Road, W11 (0870 745 5003) Open by appointment. Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 12am-5pm

Created in 2001, this luxury designer sex shop stocks seductive lingerie - bras start at £69 and knickers at £109, alongside handcrafted toys (approximately £199 for a bone vibrator) and a wide range of bed, bath and body products - prices start at £15.

Madame V
Selfridges (0870 8377377) and Liberty (020 7734 1234) www.madamev.co.uk

The Brazilian lingerie brand was launched in London 18 months ago by Vanessa Senem. As well as lingerie (£49 for bandeau top and hipster gathered brief set), nightwear and bikinis, Madame V also makes accessories and jewellery.