When a Margaret Howell sample sale is announced you can guarantee that queues will start early in the morning and elbows will be sharp and ready for action.

What is it about Howell that engenders such a cacophony of glee from fashion editors and laymen alike? The answer lies somewhere between the intricately cut British fabrics she uses – twill, Harris Tweed, and wool – and the timeless elegance of the finished clothes, from trench coats to lace-up shoes. Howell is a master of her craft and fulfils the expectations of her loyal customers season on season.

Margaret Howell has always stated that she makes "clothes that are meant to be worn in the real world, where good design is about living with thoughtful style." She started out making and selling shirts out of Blackheath but her first proper shop was right on South Molton Lane – just down the road from this sample sale.

Look out for the designer's key looks; effortless oversized blouses and classic tailored trousers. With an androgynous aesthetic ahead of its time, Howell is queen of the perfect white shirt. With blue and white shirting being celebrated in all its forms at the moment, a crisp piece of white cotton should be top of your shopping list.

This time around, there will be 80% off menswear, womenswear, homeware and fabric. Credit cards will be accepted.

What	Margaret Howell sample sale, London
Where	The Music Room, Mayfair, 26 S Molton Lane, , London, W1K 5LF \| MAP
Nearest tube	Bond Street (underground)
When	21 Sep 17 – 22 Sep 17, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Price	£Free
Website	Margaret Howell

Did you know?

Margaret Howell is famously reticent about being in the spotlight. She told the Independent: I think what I've always had to offer is my own taste, my own take on things. It's very personal. I understand that I am known as a British designer and I do love certain British cloths [Harris tweed, Irish linen, to name just two] so I try to give it that identity. Personally, I feel very outside of the fashion scene. I've never really related to it all that much.