The natives of the North know a thing or two about how to dress. Those Scandinavians have often had us longing for cheap flights to head over there and steal their style. But will you looky here, they've been kind enough to come to us instead.

Monki, the quirky, feisty little sister of Scandinavian superbrands Cheap Monday and Weekday, is debuting on UK shores. Following the Selfridges launch of Cheap Monday in August, Monki World is taking over the ground floor with its very own space.

Launched in 2006, Monki is a lifestyle and a fashion style brand representing personality, independence and blossoming creativity. Expect 'directional Scandinavian style' and attention to detail with street style thrown in the mix. Their lastest collection is filled with wardrobe staples with a playful twist at affordable prices.

Though Monki creates so much more than just clothes. They have a TV channel and a magazine they distribute worldwide to spread the Monki message and a stylish gang getting behind them. Monki girls include style blogger Susie Bubble, journalist Indigo Clarke and various up and coming DJs who each embody the Monki message: people who express who they are through what they wear.

Monki launches in Selfridges 1 September

monki.com

A good deed never goes unpunished, is a lesson that Vivienne Westwood has definitely mastered. The eccentric designer has teamed up with the International Trade Centre (ITC) to create the Ethical Fashion Program which helps communities in Africa sustain a dignified living by making environmentally friendly bags for the fashion house. It aims so give control and Independence to the people that charity does not,

"What I do, making bags, can make a difference. This project gives people control over their lives- charity doesn't give control, it does the opposite, it makes them dependant. These people have more control over their lives and can therefore choose not to exploit the environment because they have an alternative way of making money."

Renowned photographer Jurgen Teller was brought on board to shoot the campaign and will help launch and support this amazing scheme.

Malcolm Mafara

Walking down Conduit Street has been something of a tease of late as shoppers eagerly await the opening of Nicole Farhi's new flagship store. But now that wait is over.

Tomorrow sees the launch of the six storey store that will house the men's and women's collections, accessories and homeware. Bringing the spirit of the brand into the interior, heritage and innovation have collided. Original ceilings are stripped back, a grey oak and glass staircase is encased within a light and 20 th Century furniture sits alongside acid etched glass paintings.

The design is the first collaboration between Nichole Farhi and Universal Design Studio, a young London-based architecture and design team and it's all just in time before 30 candles are blown out on the Nicole Farhi birthday cake in 2012.

Nicole Farhi, 25 Conduit Street opens on 4 August.

www.nicolefarhi.com