I adore Westfield - go at least once a week. It has all the brands under the one roof, with toilets (baby-friendly ones, too) and a good food court. I seriously recommend stopping in there. Prob not the most relaxing way to spend a weekend day (gets v busy), but if you want to cover a lot of ground, I can't think of anywhere better.
DD isn't in school yet, so can't comment on the school gate situation here, but am in Kensington just near Notting Hill (God, am prob outing myself) so there are loads of nannies and glama-mummies at the playgroups and playgrounds (some mums stop into say hello while their DCs are with their nannies). I love looking at other people's outfits and jewellery and it actually makes me happy to see someone in something beautiful . God, hope DD gets some depth in her soul from DH, as clearly I am a little superficial. Sorry I can't be more help on the clique front. But I am sure I will be outraged if I am not welcomed w open arms when DD starts school! (not completely joking)
Cakey - am assuming your cleaner is badly dressed that's why you aren't thrilled that she loves your outfit. Would be surprised if its because she is your cleaner. If someone who I think has dreadful taste admires something of mine, it does make me wonder whether its ugly and I didn't notice.
everything - I don't think this thread is cliquey (am I deluded??), so no concerns from me on that. We do all talk a range of brands and greet all people and brands w enthusiasm (until they prove to be cheap and nasty. The brands I mean, the brands!! )
Boden - never heard of it before MN and don't know anyone who wears in in RL, but most of the stuff looks frumpy to me so my rule would be to avoid (w exceptions, like all good rules!). But its a good topic for S&B fightey, isn't it?!
OWW - glad little sausage is OK. Poor DS, hope it heals quickly.
Re playgroups - I really like going and go often, as DD is a go-go baby and needs constant entertainment. Too hard to do it solo at home. Not sure how I will fare w playdates, though.