Fear not. The recently opened Soho boutique AKU caters especially to those style-seekers who refuse to be seen in ubiquitous outfits. Specialising in Japanese labels such as Takashi Kumagai's GDC, Maki Hiroshige's Gomme, Takashi Kanazawa's Raw Fugde (I'm sorry. Who?), the shop is a labour of love for buyer Addie Ugbenne, who spent months trying to convince many of the near-recluse designers to flog their wares in the UK.

As a result, AKU is the exclusive UK stockist for many of the top-notch brands, ensuring that there will be little likelihood of anyone else stealing your sartorial thunder.

Don't expect a bargain though. The limited edition styles demand a certain level of, shall we say, financial commitment. But the sheer pleasure of showing off your impossibly trendy Japanese-designed trainers should make up for the fact you'll be eating beans on toast for the rest of the month.

Now, if only you could pronounce the designer's name.

AKU: Clothing from Japan
34 Marshall Street, W1 - 020 7437 4200

EC