We all like familiarity, but sometimes something a little bit different just makes you feel special.
That's true for a lot of things, but especially true for shopping.
We all have our favourite chain shops, but what about the places that you can't find anywhere else?
Here in Leicester we have some amazing independent businesses that give us something that we just don't get anywhere else.
There is something lovely about entering a shop and knowing that all the love has been pumped into it and not shared around.
We wanted to shine on a light on these amazing places, so we asked the people of Leicester to tell us their favourite independent businesses - and here are some of the best.
Set
49-51 High Street (Highcross)
If someone's birthday is coming up - head to Set. You will quickly find cute, and just hilarious cards, along with beautiful jewellery and gifts for everyone.
If you walk out of here without a smile on your face then I'll be surprised, and you'll probably say at least once 'that's so (insert name here).
Flowerworks
2 Loseby Lane
This independent florist is in Loseby Lane.
It specialises in hand-tied bouquets, bespoke arrangements and vases, plus arranging courses.
Lumbers
62-66 High Street
Lumbers is a familiar sight in Leicester. It was recommended by many readers.
It is a family run jewellers, that was established in 1881. It's moved around a bit, but still offers a wide range of jewellery.
Wellgosh
34 High Street
This High Street footwear and men's clothes shop was suggested many times.
People praise the varied selection of trainers available.
Where to go shopping in Leicester
Crafty Sew & So
9 St Martin's Square
Set up by Sarah and Freya, who met at a sewing workshop, this haberdashery shop also offers creative workshops.
It has been around since 2015 and sells sewing materials, equipment and fabrics, and runs sewing workshops and crafty parties.
The Very Bazaar
37-41 Silver Street
Tucked away in the lanes, The Very Bazaar sells crystals, jewellery, fashion accessories, and more.
As soon as you walk in you'll realise it's one of a kind with the smell of incense filling the shop/.
Button Boutique
9-10 Malcolm Arcade, Cank Street
Another place on the list for haberdashery and craft supplies.
It is a family run shop with 45 years of experience.
Tinfish shoes
3 Royal Arcade, High Street
This shoe shop has two Leicester stores (the second is based at 29-31 Francis Street) but has been in existence since 1991.
It sells branded shoes, with labels on sale including Irregular Choice, Birkenstock and Loake.
Harriman & Co
11 St Martins
You will find this shop in the lanes offering 'eclectic' homewares and home fragrance.
Take a look at their Facebook page to see their 'pug in residence' Elsie.
Cocoa Amore
34 Silver Street
Since 2013, shoppers in Leicester City Centre have been able to get their hands on handmade chocolates at Cocoa Amore.
The shop in Silver Street also offers chocolate workshops where you can learn more about what you're eating and make some yourself.
The Vintage Scene
40 Silver Street
The sparkly sign outside The Vintage Scene will probably catch your eye but inside you'll find a treasure trove of vintage clothes.
You will find classic items dating back 20 years or more.
We Are
44 The Basement, Humberstone Gate
In a basement in Humberstone Gate is a quirky shop selling art, craft and handmade accessories.
You will find unique pieces inside for sale, and the shop also has an exhibition space.
Harlequin Interior
11 Loseby Lane
This shop is a furniture showroom that says it offers 'top quality design'.
One reviewer on Facebook said the shop was 'beautiful' and the staff were 'lovely'.
Rockaboom
18 Malcolm Arcade
If you still have a record player to listen to your music, this is the perfect place to add to your collection.
You can spend a lot of time sorting through the wide collection in this tucked away store.
Pink Pigeon
33 Silver Street
A men and women's vintage clothing and accessories store.
There are two floors with one floor giving you the chance to pay for your clothes in weight, with it being
Pomponette
10 Loseby Lane
'Modern rustic interiors' inside a Grade II Listed building in the Lanes.
This shop offers handmade bespoke furniture that are made to order and can be finished with the Farrow and Ball colour of your choice.
Nada
5 Saint Martins Walk
Nada is a zero waste store where you can crash a glass jar and pick up everything from herbs and spices, to chocolate buttons or fabric conditioner.
It aims to promote a world without plastic and help people eliminate single-use plastics from their lives.
Ye Olde Sweet Shop
4 Hotel Street
This sweet shop is like a trip down memory lane.
Inside you'll find all the old favourites in jars waiting for you to order your treat of choice.
Paper Tiger
13-15 Cank Street
Perfect for students searching for that fancy dress outfit for a Wednesday night social, and a treasure trove of party goods.
Paper Tiger's walls are filled with balloons, outfits, and just everything you need to throw the best bash.
Amabis
60 High Street
Started in 1989, Amabis is an independent and eclectic jewellery and gift shop.
With the tagline 'lovely things you simply can't live without', it's a great place to look for presents.
The Wardrobe
6 Royal Arcade
This 'quirky retro' vintage shop opened in 1988, originally in The Silver Arcade, relocating to the Royal Arcade in 2011.
As well as clothing it also sells toys, purses and flasks and other accessories.
