Just off Piccadilly, Burlington Arcade is a gorgeous covered walkway with specialist shops lining each side. These shops offer a range of luxury goods, from jewellery to luggage to cashmere clothing.

The design hasn’t changed since it was built in 1819, and at 192 years, it’s the oldest shopping arcade in the country.

Burlington Arcade is currently hosting an exhibition celebrating the 150th anniversary of the tuxedo.  The Little Black Jacket exhibition displays beautiful tuxedos worn by the rich and famous including Frank Sinatra and Truman Capote.  

The exhibition also showcases tuxedos designed by students at the London College of Fashion, who have created their own interpretations of this British style classic for the modern day.

I was lucky enough to be given a tour of Burlington Arcade by Head Beadle Mark Lord.  Beadles are a rarity nowadays but when the arcade first opened they were all over London working as a substitute police force. 

Burlington Arcade proudly continues the tradition as the Beadles still assist with security and visitors. Mark was fascinating and told me many stories about the arcade, including how it originated – Lord George Cavendish built it for his wife after she complained that there was nowhere to shop and walk with her friends when it rained! 

The Little Black Jacket exhibition is open until 22 September 2011. Burlington Arcade is open every day from 8am to 9pm and from 11am to 5pm on Sundays.