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The Best Places to Buy Fabric in London

You can find fabulous fabrics in stores across London
You can find fabulous fabrics in stores across London | © Emilio Ereza / Stockimo / Alamy Stock Photo
Photo of Sarah Leigh Bannerman
Sarah Leigh Bannerman
Fashion Editor7 May 2021

Goldhawk Road in West London aside, the fabric shops in London are one of the best-kept secrets in the capital and Culture Trip has the inside scoop. Read on for the best places to shop for everything from simple cotton to toile and luxe fabrics, plus Liberty prints at a fraction of the prices at the department store.

Cloth House

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Established in 1984, Cloth House has relocated from central Soho to a new studio in Camden. It is a bit more premium (and a little more pricey) than you might find elsewhere. Though, it does stock a mixture of vintage and contemporary natural fabrics, all packaged in recycled or recyclable materials, and the buyers offer luxury suede and leather alternatives to fit the ecofriendly theme.

Fabrics Galore

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Fabrics Galore, in Battersea, has been run by original owner, Paul Johnston, for more than 25 years. It stocks iconic Liberty fabrics, plus oil cloths at affordable price points. Expect to find a variety of cottons, wools and silks, along with finishing touches such as ribbons and trims, which will offset your creations beautifully.

Goldhawk Road

Architectural Landmark
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Goldhawk Road, a destination as opposed to a specific store, is perhaps the most famous London spot for sourcing fabrics. It is flanked by around 15 independent stores, each with something unique to the next. Some shops only accept cash, so you’ll feel you’re in a bit of a time warp – but that only adds to the charm.

Macculoch & Wallis

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Macculoch & Wallis, just off Oxford Street, spans three floors and seemingly stocks every fabric ever made, plus all the linings, interfacing and trimmings to boot. Set aside a serious amount of time for browsing this store, where you’ll be spoilt for choice and unlikely to come away empty handed.

Shaukat

Market, Store
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West Brompton-based Shaukat specialises in fabrics for men’s head shawls and suiting. Plus, it stocks the largest selection of Liberty prints in the city (outside of the store itself) and, interestingly, trunks and suitcases – perhaps because you’ll need something to transport your textiles home in?

Vogue Fabrics

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Looking for quality African textiles? Head to Vogue Fabrics on Middlesex Street in central London. This retail and wholesale business, established in 1970, imports fine fabrics from across Africa. Drop in or browse online to discover an ever-changing selection of colourful materials that range from lace and brocades to damask fabrics and head ties. You can shop for top brands here, including Julius Holland and Vlisco.

Tayo Fashions and Textiles London

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You’ll find Tayo Fashions and Textiles on Wentworth Street in the heart of London. Loved by locals, the store has been selling authentic African textiles since 1997, as well as a selection of quality wigs. Fabrics include lace with embroidery stones, printed block wax and signature Nigerian patterned fabrics. Come to Tayo for the range of vibrant Nigerian auto gele headwear and traditional jewellery, which includes beaded necklaces and earrings.

Amy Blyth contributed additional reporting to this article

These recommendations were updated on May 7, 2021 to keep your travel plans fresh.
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