Going local: Theresa May's favourite local businesses

Local businesses are the backbone of the British economy, and like many of us, Theresa May likes to shop local.

Amongst the big name brands, Theresa May is a champion of British design and talent. From millinery to accessories, May knows that British is best.

May's favourite boutique is Fluidity. Based in the picturesque Henley on Thames, Fluidity stocks fashionable, creative and wearable items. Hand picked and edited, the customer is offered a truly unique and independent selection of brands. This year Fluidity is celebrating its twentieth anniversary. Much of Theresa May's wardrobe is sourced from Fluidity- from the grey Escada dress and jacket to the violet Paule Ka ensemble, Fluidity's creative and wearable ethos is evident in what the Prime Minister wears.

Fluidity is a treasure trove of fantastic clothes and accessories, and visiting the boutique for myself, I can see why May is a fan. Fluidity also champions local designers, stocking gorgeous handmade scarves by Pazuki- another favourite of Mrs May!

Head down the street in Henley and you'll come across Liz Felix Millinery. Well known for its range of unique and stunning occasion hats, Liz Felix is a skilled milliner famed for her bespoke designs. Her shop also stocks a range of off the peg hats and dresses and accessories by local designers. Felix's designs can often be seen by attendees at the Henley Royal Regatta and Royal Ascot, and of course, on the world stage thanks to Theresa May.

May has worn several of Felix's designs throughout her time as Home Secretary and currently as Prime Minister. We've seen a wide brim navy blue hat with suitable sparkly bling to the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey, a striking poppy red hat for the Chinese State Visit and the Sandhurst passing out parade, and a somber black creation for the annual Remembrance Day commemorations. Each of the designs are so beautiful, unique in their presentation and framing. Liz Felix is my number one pick for bespoke millinery- and I can see one on my horizon for the not too distant future!

May also champions up and coming designers, particularly when it comes to accessories. Louison d'or was a recent discovery for Political Style this year when May wore one their faux fur collars to Davos. With streaks of neon orange and purple, the black collar is a chic alternative to a scarf, and is designed by Emilie Lhoste from London. Emilie also designs a range of fun bags, all available through her online shop.

And spotlighting a young design student, Theresa May debuted a silk scarf from Megan Ferris to a session of PMQs earlier this year. Making a reappearance for the Queen's Speech, the scarf has propelled London based Ferris and her fantastic designs into the vision of many around the world.

The PM knows that her position as our leader provides an unique opportunity to promote and support the great creative talent that we have in the United Kingdom. From designers who are just starting out, to boutiques that are May's trusted sartorial suppliers, shopping and supporting local is not just a way of life, but a value. We can't wait to see what local purchases she debuts this A/W season!