I spent a fantastic afternoon at Westfield’s Stratford City location recently, browsing the new season collections – a riot of bright colours and prints – and sampling the delights that were available at the Great Eastern Market. (If you’ve ever been to the Brick Lane food markets on a Sunday, you’ll recognise the inspiration!)

Topshop (pictured top) showcased an array of clashing prints and textures for Spring/Summer ’14, in contrast to the more utilitarian minimalism from the likes of Zara and Reiss. My wardrobe definitely has a place for both, it just depends on the mood I’m in.

Spring/Summer is about injecting a burst of vibrant colour into your wardrobe, whether through a canary yellow dress styled with a black leather jacket (as spotted at Warehouse)…

Vibrant prints from Oasis or a colour pop heel from the likes of Dune…

If you’re a fan of the more pared down aesthetic, The Kooples has a great collection this season, particularly strong on accessories. I love the studded, black leather clutch..v. McQueen.

After a few hours browsing, I headed down to the fantastic Great Eastern Market – which is the perfect respite in between shopping. I’m a huge fan of this space, it’s the first time I’ve been there, and it offers a vast variety of world cuisine in a buzzy, market-type atmosphere. It really doesn’t feel like anything I’ve been to in a shopping centre before and it’s great that Westfield has been inspired by what can be found in the wider East London area.

From an artisan bakery, selling a delicious range of fresh breads…

To Sicilian deserts and authentic Lebanese treats…

If a liquid refreshment is more your thing, the also Market offers locally brewed beers and Bratwurst or Prosecco and delicious sweet treats…

Prising myself away from the foodie delights, I headed back up to the shops and managed to bag myself two over-sized boyfriend shirts from Topshop and a yellow clash print jumper from Warehouse. A successful afternoon!

If you live in East or South East London, Westfield Stratford City is a great option for shopping, with easy access via the tube. For more details on how to get there, check out the website Westfield.com/stratfordcity