As the Rixo flagship store opens in London, we spoke to co-founders Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey about their favourite shops, bars, and restaurants around the world.
19 April 2023
Since its launch in 2015, Rixo has been synonymous with London’s cool-girl aesthetic. Best friends and co-founders, Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey, are committed to creating distinctive, vintage-inspired pieces for women, breaking the notion that dressing up is meant only for special occasions. The new flagship store on King’s Road serves not only as a shopping destination but also offers an in-store coffee shop and cocktail bar curated by the team behind Smokey Kudu. Before the store’s grand opening, we gathered insights from the co-founders regarding their top picks for stylish spots to eat, drink, shop, and stay both in the UK and globally.
Top Shops in London
What are your favourite shops in London, and what have you bought there?
Henrietta: “I adore the Pandora second-hand vintage shop behind Harrods. I’ve made some of my best purchases there, including a Fendi baguette bag and a Chanel coat that I cherish.”
Orlagh: “My favorite is the Cubitts Antique Shop. We have sourced some incredible pieces for our Rixo stores and, more recently, for the flagship; it’s simply the best.”
The Unique London Style
What makes London style unique?
Henrietta: “London is a hotbed of creativity. We’re constantly inspired by the fashion that surrounds us—especially the style of our customers.”
Orlagh: “The vintage shops and markets are truly remarkable. Portobello Market on a Friday morning is one of the best places in the world for vintage finds to enhance our wardrobes.”
Coffee and Cocktails
What is your favourite place for a coffee or a drink in London?
Both: “Naturally, our new flagship store! We have partnered with Smokey Kudu to offer a delightful cocktail bar featuring signature cocktails, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Additionally, we’ve always envisioned having our own Rixo coffee kiosk, and we are overjoyed to see this dream realized, complete with bespoke Rixo coffee cups.”
Discovering Unique Places
Tell us about a great little place you know.
Henrietta: “Altrincham Markets in Cheshire is a fantastic spot for meeting friends, sharing tables with strangers, enjoying delicious food, and sipping margaritas.”
Shops Worth Traveling For
Tell us about the shops you would travel for and why they’re so special.
Henrietta: “We both are deeply passionate about vintage shopping; it’s where our friendship sparked and Rixo originated. Our adventures in vintage fairs and shops around the globe fuel our creativity. One memorable trip was to Florida, where we explored local thrift shops.”
Orlagh: “Antique fairs in Italy are my favorite. I took a special trip recently to the Parma Antiques Fair with my twin sister, Gemma, to uncover unique pieces for our new flagship store.”
Favorite Restaurants
What are your favourite restaurants in the world—and what is the best dish to order there?
Henrietta: “One of my favorite restaurants is Lone Star in Barbados. Their food is fantastic, but it’s really the vibe that makes it special. I have wonderful memories from my childhood that I look forward to sharing with my own child.”
Orlagh: “Gymkhana in London and Aubergine in Ibiza have exceptional ambiance and cuisine. At Gymkhana, I highly recommend the butter chicken with mushroom rice.”
Top Holiday Destinations
Tell us your favourite holiday destination.
Henrietta: “Last year, I traveled to Quinta Comporta in Portugal, both for my baby moon and a press trip; it’s effortlessly chic and very relaxed. My love for Ibiza continues—it’s a place I’ve cherished during many trips with friends and sourcing missions.”
Orlagh: “The Maldives was a stunning destination for my honeymoon. It’s hands down the most beautiful place I’ve ever visited.”
Finding Happiness
Where in the world are you happiest?
Henrietta: “My happiest moments are spent in North Wales, surrounded by nature—hiking, beach runs, and simply disconnecting from technology. There’s something truly comforting about gathering with family around the kitchen table.”
Orlagh: “I feel the same; my home in West London is my happy place. The art on the walls is painted by me, and my husband has crafted much of our home’s interior—a true reflection of who we are.”
Beautiful Views
Describe your favourite view.
Henrietta: “The view from The Fish Pot restaurant in Barbados is breathtaking. The setting is simple yet beautiful; you gaze at a sparkling Caribbean sea that blends into clear blue skies—a perfectly picturesque spot.”
Perfect Holiday Outfit
What is the ultimate holiday outfit (Rixo or otherwise)?
Henrietta: “I love wearing the Rixo Evie dress—it’s perfect for traveling, beach outings, or dining out. It’s comfy and flattering, so I always get compliments when I wear it.”
Orlagh: “The Virginia Dress is another fabulous option; I wore it during our London Fashion Week presentation, and it is simply stunning. I picture myself pairing it with a raffia bag and beautiful jewelry on vacation.”
Top Packing Tips
What are your top packing tips?
Henrietta: “I’m minimalist when I pack—favoring lightweight, versatile Rixo pieces that can suit any occasion. I also indulge in pampering myself, bringing along 111Skin face masks for relaxation.”
Orlagh: “For warm getaways, I love to bring plenty of light dresses since they are compact and easy to pack. I also recommend bringing a handheld steamer to keep everything looking fresh.”
Memorable Hotels
What’s the best hotel you’ve ever stayed at?
Henrietta: “The Shangri-La Le Touessrok in Mauritius was unforgettable. My family and I went at its opening, and running into Whitney Houston at the hotel bar was surreal!”
Orlagh: “Soneva Jani in the Maldives was absolute paradise—exceptional food, barefoot luxury, and pure bliss throughout our stay.”
Memorable Beaches
What is the best beach you’ve ever been to?
Henrietta: “The beaches in the Philippines are unbeatable. We explored countless gorgeous spots by boat, all breathtakingly beautiful and completely secluded. For anyone who loves the beach, consider making this your next destination.”
