How London got its groove back

Exploring the stores and boutiques that capture the city’s timeless style

Words by Heather Cleal

How London got its groove back

This thriving hub of history and evolving energy, the city we at Hg2 Content Lab like to call home, remains an eternal source of inspiration for so many.

When it comes to style though, well, it felt like London lost its way for a fleeting moment. Post-Brexit trade conditions challenged independent designers and retailers, whilst a worldwide pandemic certainly put a damper on our collective enthusiasm for dressing up.
Thankfully, London’s fashion fever has returned. Community-driven Instagram accounts like @londonersinlondon are championing the city’s diverse street style, watched and adopted by a global audience, while the industry’s biggest names are once again gracing our runways. From Burberry’s Autumn/Winter ‘24 collection, showcased earlier this year in leafy Victoria Park, to Gucci’s star-studded Cruise show hosted at the Tate Modern. Is London ready to swing back into its status as an enduring style icon?
Read on to discover my personal favourite spaces embracing London’s signature eclecticism, and to save for when a dose of retail therapy calls…

Frock Me Vintage Fairs | Chelsea Old Town Hall and Kensington Town Hall

Frock Me Vintage Fairs

Since 1997, Frock Me have been a cornerstone of London’s vintage fashion scene, enticing collectors and shoppers through the doors of Chelsea and Kensington’s town halls with a vast curation of clothing, jewellery, and textiles. I imagine the experience is akin to rifling through the wardrobe of a fabulous film star, from ‘70s Ossie Clark to rails of classic Chanel bouclé jackets, where a treasure trove of sartorial inspiration awaits. Vintage Fairs take place every month or so.

https://www.frockmevintagefashion.com/

Alta Store | 34 Great Windmill St

Across the street from Hg2’s Soho office lies Alta Store, an embodiment of London’s eternally youthful spirit. Founded in 2021 by five independent designers, it’s a tribute to the city’s love affair with experimentation and individuality. Among a sea of corporate garb, this delightfully grungy yet whimsical space serves as a refreshing reminder that London style thrives on a touch of rebellion.

https://alta-store.com/
Alta Store | 34 Great Windmill StAlta Store | 34 Great Windmill St

Liberty | Regent Street, Carnaby

Because nothing says quintessential London style quite like Liberty. Regent Street’s iconic department store, established in 1875, offers an emporium of established and emerging designers, beauty, homewares, and of course, Liberty’s famed fabrics. Oscar Wilde himself once called it “the chosen resort of the artistic shopper”.

https://www.libertylondon.com/

Rellik | 8 Golborne Road

While Rellik might not be fashion’s best kept secret these days, it remains a mecca for
vintage enthusiasts. This charming boutique overflows with archive pieces, each with a
fascinating story to tell. From Vivienne Westwood’s signature tailoring to numerous Margiela
masterpieces, the thrill of finding something truly rare and unique here has become a sport
for many of our city’s most stylish inhabitants.

https://relliklondon.co.uk/
Rellik | 8 Golborne Road

Dover Street Market | 18-22 Haymarket

Having recently launched its first outpost in Paris, it’s safe to say that the international
success of Dover Street Market is testament to London’s enduring influence and style.
Founded by the visionary Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons, DSM is both a destination
for shopping, and a meeting point for the city’s tastemakers, disruptors, and innovators.
Browse an extensive collection of both big labels and independents, before stopping by for
coffee and homemade cake at Rose Bakery, situated on the third floor.

https://www.doverstreetmarket.com/
Dover Street Market | 18-22 Haymarket

Alex Eagle Studio | 6-10 Lexington St

Behind two large crimson doors on Lexington Street is a sanctuary of calm and refinement
amidst the bustling streets of Soho. From artworks and homewares, to a curated collection
of timeless style staples, Alex Eagle Studio reflects the contemporary Londoner’s desire to
cultivate a seamless and sophisticated life beyond their wardrobe that feels enviably and
effortlessly chic.

https://alexeagle.com/
Alex Eagle Studio | 6-10 Lexington St
As London’s diverse style is emulated by social media’s eager fashion set, and a wave of young designers look to make their mark here, creative spirit overflows as it feels as if the world is once again taking note, captivated by our capital’s energy and character. That being said, embracing the ‘London look’ is just as much about the clothes themselves as the attitude they’re so effortlessly paired with – so go forth, and discover your own corner of
London style.

Image credits:

Liberty by Umair Dingmar via Unsplash
@frockmevintagefair
@altastore.ldn
Liberty fabrics by finn-H_LlFPb-hDs via Unsplash
@doverstreetmarketlondon
@alexeaglestudio

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