Why go now?
On 1 June Stella McCartney is hosting a presentation of her autumn/winter collection at the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts (LIPA), with proceeds benefiting the school. The show coincides with a concert by Stella's dad Sir Paul McCartney to celebrate the city's new status as European City Of Culture. There's also the grand opening of the £1bn pound Liverpool ONE shopping and leisure centre and the exhibition of Vienniese artist Gustav Klimt at the Tate.

 
Where to stay
Far from the naffness one would imagine it to be, The Hard Day's Night Hotel (North John Street) has a few chic and artsy Beatles touches to keep the fans happy and some very impressive design for those who are not. The boutique hotel is housed in a massive Grade II listed building close to the city's centre, and they also offer special shopping packages with boutique Cricket, plus packages for Beatlemaniacs as well. Prices start from £170 per night.

 
Where to eat
Alma de Cuba (Seel Street) is one of Liverpool's hottest restaurants and counts Girls Aloud amongst its fans, yet part of what makes it special is that it's so accessible. At the very least drop by for one of their fantastic Latin cocktails and admire the surroundings which used to be a Catholic Church. Having said that, it's well worth staying for the eclectic food featuring Hispanic, Latin American and Asian influences or pop by for Sunday's Gospel Brunch.  

 
Where to go out
The hip new kid on the block is Korova (Fleet Street) which accurately describes itself as "a great place to sip a beer, catch a band or simply debut your new asymmetrical haircut," and has hosted everyone from Hot Chip to the Kooks.

 
Where to shop
Matthew Street is home to prime shopping haunts including Coleen McLoughlin's favourite Cricket to Vivienne Westwood. Also head to vintage and retro shop extraordinaire Pop Boutique (Whitechapel), where we found some chic '70s ankle boots for just £25.

 
For more information
Tickets for Stella McCartney's show are available exclusively from boutique Cricket with proceeds benefiting LIPA, for more ring 0151 227 4645 Ext 22.

 
Visit Liverpool: www.visitliverpool.com

 
See pictures from Stella McCartney's autumn/winter 2008/9 fashion show on handbag.com

 
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Top picture: Stella McCartney, spring/summer 2008