Jo Malone Reveals Her Top Shopping Secrets: Discover Her Strategies

Jo Malone CBE, originally from south-east London, ended her formal education at age 13 to look after her mother. She is the brain behind the prestigious scent company, Jo Loves, and the founder of the previously owned and sold Jo Malone London, from which she departed in 2006.

In 2023, Jo relocated to the Middle East in pursuit of new adventures. There, she established a new venture and in 2025 introduced Jo Vodka, a beverage company.

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What’s the Latest Indulgence You Purchased for Yourself?

A chocolate brown and white silk Me+Em co-ord set, featuring expansive palazzo pants and an elegant shirt that, when worn together, mimic a jumpsuit.

Silk wide-leg trouser co-ord

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What’s Your Go-To for Grocery Shopping?

I often buy chicken breasts with asparagus and Parma ham from Waitrose, along with hummus, taramasalata, fruits, and vegetables from Marks & Spencer. During my visits, I always pick up whole nectarines and sunflowers.

I also enjoy supporting local businesses like Jago’s butcher in Chelsea for their exceptional chicken and apricot sausages and wild boar, which are a Saturday lunch favorite in our home. The Chelsea fishmonger offers the finest crab cakes I’ve tasted, and Ottolenghi is my choice for salads.

Easy-to-cook asparagus and prosciutto chicken breasts

M&S taramasalata

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What’s the Finest Gift You’ve Given and Received?

I contributed to an elephant conservation effort in the Thula Thula wildlife reserve, aiding in the rescue and resettlement of 12 rogue elephants now thriving on expansive land. As a token of appreciation, a baby hippo was named after me!

Additionally, a Tiffany star pendant gifted by my husband, Gary, during one Christmas has become a cherished accessory I wear daily. It’s a constant reminder of my family’s love and the blessed life I lead.

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Which Online Store Do You Frequent Most?

Sous Chef tops my list for its unparalleled selection of global ingredients, from exotic salts and balsamic vinegars to spices and olive oils. When it’s time to cook, that’s where I look.

Camilla, an Australian designer, is another favorite, especially since living in Dubai. I find better deals on the Australian site compared to UK prices.

Kalios petimezi balsamic vinegar

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What’s Your Preferred Physical Store?

Ikea is my favorite for its inspiration and DIY possibilities. I particularly enjoy their food section and kitchen gadgets during the Christmas season.

Ginger thins

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What Gadget Do You Use Most Frequently?

A compact Dyson vacuum cleaner is indispensable for quick clean-ups on our wooden floors after meals. Additionally, a steamer is essential not just for clothes but for ensuring daily freshness of our bed linens.

Dyson Gen5detect cordless vacuum cleaner

Clothes steamer

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What Purchase Do You Regret Most?

An electric car, which became impractical after we moved from the UK. While it was a financially unfavorable decision, it represented a short-lived but important commitment to environmental responsibility. Currently, I prefer using public transportation or cycling for my daily travels.

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What Do You Frequently Have Delivered?

I regularly order wine, bed linen from Ava Innes, water, toiletries, and olive oil—the latter being so essential that I stock up with 20 bottles at a time.

Merino wool bed blanket

Zaytoun olive oil

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Where Do You Shop for Underwear?

M&S is my choice for practicality with their four-pack options, but for versatility, I opt for Eres swimsuits that also serve as bodysuits.

Swimwear

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What Would You Purchase with £20 – and £200?

With £20, I’d enjoy a glass of wine and a croque monsieur. With £200, I’d splurge on theatre tickets or a lavish movie night complete with treats.

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Do You Have a ‘Saved Search’ on eBay/Vinted?

I don’t use one!

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What Item Do You Frequently Repurchase?

My regular buys include Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream, turmeric and vitamin D supplements, Chanel lip gloss, beer, and olive oil.

Charlotte’s Magic Cream, 30ml

Chanel Rouge Coco gloss

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How Do You Brew Coffee at Home?

Our Nespresso machine is in constant use, with an array of pods to choose from.

Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee pod machine

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What’s Your Largest Extravagance?

We indulge in a family road trip annually; this year’s destination was Italy. The journey was packed with cooking classes, wine tastings, sumptuous dinners, and stays at exquisite hotels, all crammed into one unforgettable week. We treasure experiences over material possessions.

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And Which Everyday Item Do You Economize On?

I detest wasting food. Whether dining out or at home, I ensure leftovers are repurposed into new meals.

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And What’s Your Most Treasured Vintage Discovery?

In Italy, I stumbled upon a magnificent golden butterfly necklace in a quaint shop. It’s a unique piece that I’m thrilled to own.

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