So it’s all about celebrating being British this year – what with the Queen’s Jubilee and Olympic Games and all. This has its upsides – four-day weekend – and its downsides – the Homes editor about to throw herself out of the window if she receives another photo of a Union Jack cushion.

But – staying with the positives – we’ve just published our own homage to our favourite British labels, everything from high end (Paul Smith, Vivienne Westwood) to high street (Clarks – my grateful feet say thanks). Our fashion writer Alyson Walsh put this gallery together, read more about her favourite British brands on her blog That's Not My Age. 

The V&A in London has just opened its own celebration of British design, running until August 12 - read more here. James Dyson, a design icon himself, selected his top 5 in Shortlist magazine as the Harrier jet, Moulton bicycle, Hovercraft, Mini and JCB (a very ‘boys’ choice!).

But it’s not all about the long-standing icons – Noble Isle is a great new British beauty brand which launches in May with an interesting story. Showcasing the best natural ingredients from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, the pampering products for hair and body include a rhubarb collection from Yorkshire, sea oak goodies from Ireland, honey and malted barley products from Scotland and pear-inspired beauty from Gloucestershire. Find out more here.

And there’s Mistral fashion label, which will appeal to Boden and Toast fans, browse the online fashion store here.

What’s your favourite brand?