Men’s fashion: four hotspots you must try in London
Some have suggested that it’s another one of those “cities that never sleeps” and when it comes to fashion at least, London is up there with the best.
In fact, one could argue that the main problem with London is that its shoppers are simply spoilt for choice. Whether you are landing as a tourist from abroad, or you happen to be a local looking for the next big thing in fashion, it can be difficult to know where to start.
This is where today’s guide is going to step in, albeit honing in on the male fashion sector. Let’s now take a look at some of the best hotspots for men’s fashion in the UK’s capital.
Option #1 – Covent Garden
It might be renowned for its theatres and other tourist attractions, but don’t be fooled into thinking that Covent Garden isn’t a serious player when it comes to male fashion.
On the contrary, it is up there with the best. The fact that it has the very first London-based Paul Smith shop speaks volumes, while it’s not just the high-profile brands that can be found here either. Covent Garden also has plenty of independent brands, including The Real McCoy’s (excellent for military-themed and sportswear clothing), and this can allow you to add something a little bit different to your wardrobe.
Option #2 – Oxford Street
In truth, a guide to shopping in London wouldn’t be complete without a mention to Oxford Street. With over 300 shops it’s certainly another big player, although it also attracts the most crowds (particularly around Christmas).
In terms of names, they stretch far and wide. For example, while Primark’s flagship store happens to be based here, so does Selfridges and John Lewis. At the same time, the street is home to brands that aren’t common on UK soil, but have a big presence in other countries.
A prime example comes in the form of Reserved, a brand that is commonly seen on the streets of Poland. It has something of a H&M feel about it, which can give shoppers an excellent and distinctive choice as they explore Oxford Street. Ultimately, if you can wade through the scores of shoppers, it’s worthy of a visit – and you’ll find everything from that simple jumper right the way through to that designer overcoat.
Option #3 – Savile Row
For those of you who are looking to find your next suit, Savile Row might be worth considering. Of course, you will need to dig deep into your pocket, with suits in this region of London tending to be handmade and impeccably crafted.
In terms of specific suggestions, the likes of Henry Poole & Co are based here (the firm that created the dinner jacket, and were the first tailor in Savile Row), while Ozwald Boateng and Huntsman & Sons are other notable brands.
Option #4 – Knightsbridge
We’re going to end the guide with something of a premium suggestion, in the form of Knightsbridge. This district is, of course, home to Harrods and Harvey Nichols, meaning that if you are looking for a high-end item you’ll certainly find it in one of these stores.
Of course, if you just want to bask near the glitz and glamour of Harrods but perhaps not pay their prices, there are other so-called standard high-street stores which stock more affordable menswear, and these are located just across the road.
Topman and Zara are prime examples, with both, of course, holding extensive male sections that are a little easier on the pocket. There are other lesser-known brands around Knightsbridge as well, such as The Kooples in Brompton Road – an ultra-cool French brand that has over 300 stores in Europe and is now starting to become more prominent in the UK.
One of The Kooples’ current ranges is a collection of bold, limited-edition backpacks designed in collaboration with musician Zayn – a handy (but far from cheap) buy if you need somewhere to stow away all the other purchases from your London shopping blitz.
Do you have a favourite London men’s fashion hotspot? Share your tips with us below!
