Menswear fashion has become something of a focus in London of late, with men’s collections setting ever-more covetable trends and adding to its list of lesser-known but much-deserving designers. In response, the retail landscape is expanding beyond the realms of the everyday and boutique shopping is becoming ever-more prominent. Here, we list the best menswear fashion boutiques in East London to ensure you’re plied with the appropriate knowledge before heading out on your next shopping excursion.
There’s one London store that deserves the ultimate ‘one-of-a-kind’ title and it’s LN-CC (short for Late Night Chamelion Café). Not just a clothing store but also home to art installations, a record store and a library as well, it does a wonderful job of distracting you from the potential to purchase, but makes an equally strong case for doing so – we guarantee you’ll want to take home part of such an incredible venture. There are definitely brands that you’ll be familiar with inside (Fendi and Raf Simmonsto name but a few) but you’ll also come across the odd label you never knew existed. Previously an appointment-only retailer but now open to the public, it’s easier than ever to drop by for a browse and a jot of inspiration.
Hub
With a womenswear counterpart just down the street, HUB in Stoke Newington takes a unique approach to retail space, completely separating the two collections in a way that feels altogether appropriate. It’s run by buyer and store manager, Shane Kingdon, who focuses on ensuring the space lacks sales pressure but instead allows customers to feel at ease in enjoying their experience. Be sure to look out for his accessories label, Siege of Cranes, which keeps production close to home in the UK.
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HUH.
Store
Starting life as an online fashion and lifestyle publication and now also boasting a bricks and mortar store in edgy East London hotspot, Dalston, HUH. has an inclusive feel to it that you’re sure to want to get involved in. Interiors-wise, things are pretty contemporary, which sits perfectly in-line with the labels on offer. When it comes to stock, the menswear offering is varied but every label carries a similar message… one of understated cool. From Samsøe and Samsøe to Norse Projects, there’s something of a Scandinavian vibe to the theme that will set the tone for a failsafe weekend wardrobe. What’s more? The store also serves up coffee by London-favourite, Caravan, and offers a host of complimentary publications for you to browse post purchase.
Article
Shop
Bringing men’s style into the spotlight and celebrating labels that champion quality and durability within their collections, Article is something of a unique addition to Kingsland Road and to this list of boutiques. The owner, Phil Stace, is also the brains behind online retailer, urbanexcess.com and the brand listings are much the same across the two, spanning a range of pricepoints and appealing to a range of age groups. Whether you want to get your hands on the latest sneaker collaborations or you need to update your wardrobe staples, Article’s offering is sure to deliver.
Start
Store
Fusing East London’s cool-kid attitude with an acute attention to detail and an eye for classic design, Start is the destination to head for if you’re looking to update your tailoring collection. It offers ready to wear suiting and works with Saville Row tailors to ensure each suit is tailored to the client’s exact size. The most impressive part? Alterations can be turned around on the same day if necessary. The collection also includes shirting, knitwear and contemporary business wear to complete your wardrobe and made-to-measure designs are available in store.
Goodhood Store
Store, Shop
Arguably more of a concept store than a menswear boutique, Goodhood Store is Shoredich’s answer to Parisian Collette. Alongside luxury labels such as Wantanabe Man and the newly-launched Vans Vault X Alyx collaboration, it stocks its own in-house line, Goods by Goodhood. A matter-of-fact approach to fashion with a finger on the pulse and a knowledge of the most relevant trends and brands, there’s no real structure to the style genres on offer but one thing’s for sure, each label is stocked for a reason.
Aida
Shop, Store
Home to its own in-store coffee shop as well as the odd film screening and charity event, Aida is the concept store epitome. Its menswear offering spans the likes of Mads Norgaad and Levis Made and Crafted and it’s arranged in a way that’s sure to inspire a wardrobe re-invention. Shopping or not, Aida is well worth a visit. Interiors are urban and materials are natural – think exposed brick, authentic wood flooring and minimalistic steel clothes rails. Settle in with a coffee and a paper and while away your afternoon with a side of style inspiration to boot.
Present London
Store
Packed to the rafters with pieces you never knew you needed like a Ten C military jacket or a pair of Tomo and co air sandals, Present London’s bright-white menswear store makes for a welcome addition to Shoreditch High Street. It’s run by Eddie Prendergast and Steve Davies, who coincidentally, also founded their own label, Duffer of St George, so know a thing or two about the menswear market. Pop in prior to a drink at your favourite East London haunt or make a special trip to discover what brands they’re spotlighting that week.
Topman General Store
Topman General Store is an extension of the brand that we all know and love but it’s designed in a way that embraces the aesthetic of its East London setting. In essence, if it weren’t for the clothing labels, you may not even notice you were in a Topman. It’s positioned just a stone’s throw from Spitalfields market and around the corner from the Old Truman Brewery and it has a boutiquey feel to it that oozes street cred. Stocks are taken from the brand’s mainline collection and there’s little that you wouldn’t find in any other Topman store but it’s almost as if someone has chosen all the best bits and compiled them as one.
Modern Society is a fine example of how unisex dressing can work, and work well. The retail space on Redchurch Street (much like its online store) combines the two genders within its merchandising and intertwines homewares, accessories and coffee table books to create a well-rounded experience and a concept store that you’ll want to search every corner of. In our opinion, the coffee on offer is one to rival almost any in London and the food menu is the perfect blend of health-trend recipes and wholesome, hearty dishes. Spend a little time here before heading over to Barber and Parlour across the street for a grooming session and your day is complete.
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