Billionaire Sir Philip Green opened the doors of his flagship Topshop store so that Whitney Houston could have a private shopping spree. The retail mogul handed the Oxford Street store over to the singer, who was allowed to take as much as she wanted for free.

Whitney, 45, had just showcased her comeback album to a select audience in Knightsbridge, and wound down with some extreme retail therapy.
A source told us last night: “Whitney looked like a kid in a candy shop. She met Sir Philip at a fashion show in 2007 and they have remained in touch.

Best friends: Whitney Houston and Sir Philip Green at her album launch party

“Whitney invited him to the exclusive playback of her new album at the Mandarin Oriental hotel last night, and he was so impressed that he offered her the VIP Topshop trip.”

You heard it here girls — if you want the shopping spree of your dreams, all you have to do is record your own top-notch record and play it to Sir Phil at a swanky hotel.

Our source continued: “Sir Philip kept the shop open immediately after closing time, and gave all of the staff crisp £50 notes as a thank you for staying on.

“Whitney grabbed bags and bags of stuff, but only chose one item of clothing for herself. She was overheard saying her 16-year-old daughter Bobbi Kristina likes Topshop, so chose everything for her — except for a Union Jack cardigan which she chose for herself.

“Whitney looked ecstatic, and happily posed with staff for pictures and signed autographs for them.”

At her album launch party earlier in the evening, Whitney was so nervous she refused to be in the room where the album was played.

Our spy said: “There were music press from around the world and VIP guests present. Whitney was so nervous she was hiding behind a door while everyone listened, but then emerged in a black and white dress and thanked everyone for coming.”

The album, I Look To You, is Whitney's first in seven years. The title song was written by R. Kelly.