We delve into the shops on Redchurch Street in Shoreditch and take a look at what makes this inconspicuous location such a London style set favourite.
The beauty of Redchurch Street is that it’s only really those in-the-know who go there, so if you’re looking for something far away from any tourist hotspot that captures the essence of what’s given Shoreditch its contemporary-cool reputation, then you’re in the right place. A fashion-lover’s haven, it’s peppered with clothing boutiques, concept stores, interior inspiration and hidden coffee and cocktail spots that will add a new dimension to your London repertoire.
Discover the best boutique hotels to stay in Shoreditch here.
When something or someone is unquestionably cool, it carries a certain level of nonchalance that says; ‘I don’t care if you like me or not’ and that’s the feeling you get when you stumble across Modern Society… because you’re more likely to find it by accident than on purpose. Much like its neighbours, there’s no brash branding or shouty signage, simply a blackboard outside brandishing a witty quote. This is a store with personality. Fashion concept space, interior haven and home to some of the best coffee in East London, there’s seemingly nothing that the founders haven’t done well. Collections include some of the most contemporary names on the market, from Rejina Pyo to Desmond & Dempsy, and product hangs on minimalistic brass rails or sits folded neatly atop dark wood and marble surfaces, artfully interspersed with accessories and homewares. Inviting, inspirational and just a touch homely, they’ve added in a few window tables along with their coffee and snack menu incase you’ve got the time for a quick spot of Shoreditch-specific people watching.
When a concept store is designed well, it offers not so much a shopping experience as a sense of escapism from it. Monologue is nestled among an array of unique stores but it stands out due to its product focus; home furniture and accessories. No two visits are the same as it stocks creations by emerging designers and the space is designed in a conceptual way that allows for consistent re-design. Adding the cherry to the top of the very balanced mix of retail ingredients that this corner of Shoreditch represents, it’s the perfect pit stop if you’re either in the market for, or want to be inspired by, luxury, design-focused home décor.
Despite its somewhat inconspicuous location, newly re-branded hotel, bar and dining space, The Boundary Project has long since been the destination on every Shoreditch local’s lips. Perhaps it’s due to its dreamy rooftop, artsy interior design and beautifully presented dishes that it attracts some of the city’s most stylish, or perhaps it’s because it’s only really those ‘in-the-know’ who are likely to find it. Set to move further into the spotlight now that the summer months are approaching, it’s the ultimate East London venue if you’re looking for a relaxing rooftop drink in a spot seemingly worlds away from the closest London tourist.
Making the cinema experience luxurious again, Redchurch Street’s Electric Cinema is owned by the Soho House group, carrying a very specific sense of rustic charm that goes hand-in-hand with the brand. Vintage-inspired velvet armchairs come draped with cashmere blankets and are separated by a small side table – there’s no sharing of cup holders to be had here. What’s more? You have to wander through social hotspot, Barber and Parlour to get to the cinema which is fashion-lover’s haven in itself; imagine instagrammable cocktails, all-encompassing sofas and industry professionals tapping away on laptops and you’ve painted the picture. Films on the schedule don’t just include newly-released blockbusters but thought-provoking documentaries and old classics as well. That said, it’s no wonder the style set use this hidden gem as a regular Sunday afternoon hangout.
Bringing its pared-back Parisian aesthetic to the streets of Shoreditch, A.P.C stocks the kinds of designs that slot seamlessly into Redchurch Street’s casual-cool aesthetic. Store interiors perfect a certain artful minimalism that reflects the brand and both men’s and women’s collections are shown within the space, which considering its intimate size, adds an inclusive feel that’s in-keeping with the industry’s current gender fluidity movement. Denim is the brand’s speciality and the collection is somewhat designed around that, so expect elevated staples with just a hint of French charm.
There’s little chicer than the interiors of an Aesop store and its identity is instantly recognisable; think rustic walls, clean-cut shelving and iconic branding that gives each item on display the kind of uniform that you can’t help but want to buy into. Redchurch Street’s offering is representative of this look, of course, but it’s the only one in East London so it’s unique for that very reason. A considered addition to any bathroom cabinet (preferably one where your products are on display), or a desirable travel companion, it’s products by Aesop that will ensure a stylish aesthetic continues far beyond the realms of any new outfit.
Positioned just a stone’s throw from Redchurch Street on Boundary Street, it’s impossible not to mention Shoreditch Nails as a fashion lover’s bucket list essential. Not just your average nail bar, the concept fuses fashion with beauty in a way that feels relevant, trend-focused, accessible and fun. You may well have seen the technicians’ quirky designs on Instagram – the dots and tape creations have become their signature – but it’s not until you step into the white-brick and pink-tiled salon that you’ll see how this playful level of branding reaches all areas of the business. Working with the likes of the Hoxton Hotel and Balance festival and calling not only London’s fashion influencers but travel and lifestyle bloggers like Alice Tate regulars as well, it’s the place to go if you’ve perfected the outfit but you just want that design-focused final touch.
