Shopping has changed a lot over time! We’ve seen a shift from local shops to the rise of huge department stores, and now we’re seeing a comeback of local shops and online shopping. But before we get too caught up in the future, let’s take a trip down memory lane and see where it all started. This gallery lets us peek into the past of London’s iconic department stores during their golden era.
The Birth of a Shopping Phenomenon
The very first department store in London was actually called Howell, Harding & Co., a draper’s shop that opened its doors in 1796 on Pall Mall. It was a groundbreaking concept, offering everything under one roof – from luxurious furs and dainty fans to fabrics for dresses, haberdashery, jewelry, clocks, perfume, and millinery. It’s easy to see how this kind of one-stop shopping would catch on quickly! The late 1800s saw department stores become a central part of London’s social and cultural life, especially for women. These grand spaces were more than just shops; they were places to be seen and to socialize.
Early Pioneers of Department Store Shopping
Other notable early department store pioneers include the famous Fortnum & Mason, which started out as a humble grocery store on Piccadilly in 1707. Then there’s Debenhams, which began as a draper’s shop in 1778 on Wigmore Street. The partnership of Debenham & Freebody was formed in 1813 and eventually led to the creation of their flagship store on Oxford Street, a truly stunning building that was completed in 1908 by the renowned architects Trollope & Colls.
The Rise of Harrods and Whiteley’s
Harrods, a name synonymous with luxury and grandeur, was founded in 1849 on Knightsbridge. Today, it’s the largest department store in all of Europe! This gallery showcases the lavish interiors of Harrods, taking us back to a time when shopping was truly an event. You’ll also find images of Harrods delivery drivers zipping around on their motorbike vans in the 1920s, a glimpse into the bustling energy of the era.
Whiteley’s of Bayswater was another department store giant. Starting as a modest draper’s shop in 1863, it quickly expanded to encompass 17 different departments by 1867. Sadly, a devastating fire in 1887 forced the store to relocate to Bayswater.
Theatrical Inspiration and the Evolution of Shopping
The West End’s thriving theater scene played a big part in shaping the department stores we know today. People flocked to this district in the mid-1800s, and the stores catered to these audiences, offering everything from elegant clothes to dazzling gifts. The spectacle of window displays, showcasing the latest products, was further enhanced by the use of electric lighting, creating a truly magical shopping experience, especially after a night at the theater. In 1909, Selfridges arrived on Oxford Street, introducing a whole new philosophy: shopping for pleasure, not just necessity. This shift marked the beginning of a new era in shopping.
The Passing of an Era
Many of the famous names associated with the traditional department store model – Debenhams, Littlewoods, C&A, British Home Stores – have sadly vanished or merged with online businesses. But not all department stores have disappeared. Liberty & Co., located on Great Marlborough Street and Regent Street, is still going strong. John Lewis, though smaller, continues to thrive on Oxford Street. However, as our relationship with shopping continues to change, these stores may need to adapt to survive.
Lost but Not Forgotten
The gallery also features less familiar names like Barker’s of Kensington, founded in 1870, and Derry & Toms, which took over Barker’s location in the 1930s. We see glimpses of stores that have since closed their doors, such as Arding & Hobbs Lavender Hill, Bourne & Hollingsworth, and Swan & Edgar. These names may be gone, but their legacy lives on in the fascinating history of London’s department stores.
This gallery is a wonderful reminder of the rich and vibrant history of London’s department stores. It shows us how these grand spaces evolved over time, reflecting the changing needs and desires of shoppers. As we navigate the ever-evolving world of retail, it’s important to remember the foundations upon which it was built and the lasting impact of these iconic London department stores.
