East London is a haven for those seeking unique finds and a vibrant shopping experience. The diversity of shops, ranging from vintage boutiques to luxury brands, makes it a shopper’s dream. It’s no surprise that renowned fashion houses like Bottega Veneta and Gucci chose East London for their summer pop-up shops, drawn to the area’s influential appeal.
To navigate this fashion-forward landscape, we’ve consulted with fashion editors and local experts to curate the ultimate guide to East London’s hidden gems. Get ready to discover the shops that are truly worth the journey.
Secondhand Treasures and Chic Finds: Where Vintage Meets Luxury
“While Broadway Market is known for its food, I now frequent it for its pre-loved designer pieces,” says Harriet Davey, a fashion editor and stylist. She recommends Rites, a pop-up shop that’s soon to become a permanent fixture. This haven for secondhand luxury allows you to rent, buy, and even sell your own designer clothes, bags, and shoes. Davey says she rarely leaves empty-handed, highlighting the shop’s allure.
Another gem is Rites, a haven for fashion enthusiasts seeking curated collections of top brands. From Rejina Pyo to Loewe, Prada, and Faithfull The Brand, all your favorite designers are under one roof. The best part? The rental and shopping prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a budget-friendly destination for high-end fashion.
“With new pieces arriving regularly, I make it a point to visit Rites whenever I’m in the area,” Davey shares. “It’s become one of my favorite stops, and I’m sure it will be yours too.”
From Wicker Baskets to Unique Gifts: Discovering the Charm of Columbia Road
Escape the hustle and bustle of Shoreditch and head to Straw on Columbia Road, Emily Dawes, affiliate editor at Who What Wear UK, suggests. This quaint shop started as a vintage basket store but has blossomed into a treasure trove of unique items. From wavy-edged terracotta pots to charming white dresses, Straw has something for everyone.
“It’s my go-to spot for birthday cards and gifts,” Dawes explains. “But I always end up leaving with something for myself too.”
Dawes recommends combining a visit to Straw with a stop at Campania, a nearby restaurant offering delicious pasta and wine. This creates a perfect combination of shopping and dining in a charming East London setting.
Nordic Vintage and Industrial Chic: Exploring Fish Island’s Hidden Warehouse
If you’re looking for an IYKYK (In the Know You Know) destination, venture off the beaten path to a warehouse in Bow’s Fish Island. This industrial haven houses a curated collection of Nordic vintage and antiques, making it a treasure hunter’s paradise.
From mid-century furniture to glassware, trinkets, and candles, there’s something for every budget. You can find unique pieces for under £100, or invest in statement furniture for your home.
Sleek and Minimalist: Discovering Stoke Newington’s Fashion Hub
Zoe Anastasiou, fashion editor at Marie Claire, recommends exploring the boutiques along Church Street in Stoke Newington. She particularly loves Hub Womenswear for its curated selection of sleek, minimalist, and Scandi-inspired pieces.
“From Ganni to Baum and Pfergarten, Stand Studio, and more, Hub embodies the essence of Scandinavian style,” Anastasiou says. “What’s not to love?”
Global Finds and Handcrafted Treasures: Unveiling the Beauty of Hackney Road
East London is brimming with boutiques showcasing exceptional curation, and A New Tribe stands out with its unique selection of pieces sourced from independent designers and artisans worldwide.
Founder Ella Jones aims to offer homeware that you won’t find anywhere else, making rugs a speciality. The shop features one-of-a-kind rugs from rare and vintage collections. Their hand-painted ceramics and curated collection of fragrance and candles from indie brands are also worth the trip to Hackney Road.
Vintage Extravaganza: Where Premium Meets Rare Finds
Hannah Almassi, editor-in-chief of Who What Wear UK, describes Nordic Poetry as a vintage lover’s dream. This shop offers a carefully curated selection of premium and rare designer pieces from the past.
“The space itself is calm and curated, and the quality of the pieces is unlike anything you’ll find in most thrift stores,” Almassi says. “Founder Ameli Lindgren has an amazing eye for unique finds.”
Streetwear, Lifestyle, and Everything In-Between: Exploring the Iconic Goodhood
Goodhood, a beloved institution in East London since 2007, caters to the area’s unique customer base. Known for its streetwear and trainer collection and selection of hyped brands, Goodhood has expanded into lifestyle products.
From Stüssy fleece and New Balance trainers to Tekla sheets, Hay Design tableware, and Boy Smells candles, Goodhood offers a diverse range of products for the modern lifestyle.
Handcrafted Delights: Where Objects Tell Stories
Momoko Mizutani opened Momosan Shop to showcase homewares and objects made by independent craftspeople. Inspired by her native Japan’s pottery shops, she aims to create a space where objects reflect the personality of their makers and bring joy to those who encounter them.
“I’m attracted to objects that speak to me and make me smile,” Mizutani explains. “The beautiful design-led homeware and incredible selection of jewelry make me smile every time I visit.”
Beauty, Homeware, and Sensory Delights: A Minimalist Oasis in Shoreditch
Shannon Lawlor, beauty expert at Marie Claire, calls Earl of East her happy place. This minimalist haven offers a curated selection of beauty and homeware products.
“It’s an aesthetic dream,” Lawlor says. “Earl of East houses some of the best bits of beauty in one place, alongside chic homeware.”
The shop features the brand’s namesake line of candles, hand soaps, and bath salts, known for their beautiful scents. Earl of East is also one of the rare stockists of Lawlor’s favorite perfume brand, DS & Durga.
Mediterranean Charm and Unique Gifts: A Kooky Homeware Haven
Chantal Martinelli and Julien Desormeaux opened Mad Atelier in a former East London pub, transforming it into a haven of Mediterranean style. The shop features a blend of Southern European and Northern African influences and houses Martinelli’s design and architecture studio.
“It’s a kooky homeware store filled with joyful items that make amazing, unusual gifts,” says Kate Lloyd, acting features editor at British Vogue.
East London is a vibrant and eclectic mix of shops and boutiques, offering a unique shopping experience for every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking vintage treasures, handcrafted delights, or minimalist elegance, this dynamic district has something for everyone. So, put on your walking shoes, grab your shopping bag, and prepare to be inspired by the hidden gems of East London.
