The UK’s 50 most fabulous independent shops
Bertie’s of Bay
This heritage clothes brand’s niche is reviving the nautical styles traditionally worn on the Yorkshire coastline where it is situated. It was started in 2016 by Matthew Pugh (“With £500 in my pocket for stock and a dream of creating something upmarket, unique and special”), who soon began working with local historians to reinvent the classic fisherman’s sweater without seams, using 100% British oiled wool, which is what people seek this Robin Hood’s Bay nook out for.
The Old Bakery, Chapel Street, Robin Hood’s Bay YO22 4SQ (bertiesofbay.co.uk)
Crane & Kind
Run by sisters Jemma Lascelles and Polly McLachlan, family lifestyle store Crane & Kind stocks children’s clothing, toys and essentials “from small indie enterprises often started by women like us with a passion for creating something beautiful”, says McLachlan. As well as items which are fun, forward-thinking, sustainable and representative, the duo’s Live Kind initiative sees proceeds from their in-house-designed collection donated to children’s wards, and to create care packages for bereaved parents and survivors of domestic abuse.
Market Square, Sidmouth EX10 8AR (craneandkind.com)
Triangle Store
Stocking Universal Works cardigans alongside Grown Alchemist toiletries and LF Markey dungarees, this Clapton store is the result of “local and loyal customers”, says founder Tory Mullen, who started it as a vintage shop in 2014 before diversifying her offering in 2017 to become one of the East End’s most popular destinations for curated cool. Mullen now also designs a line of jewellery each season, made by Karin Andreasson and also available online where minutes could easily turn into hours.
81 Chatsworth Road, London E5 0LH (trianglestore.co.uk)
Not Just Another Store
Featuring more than 25 international and independent brands spanning fashion, literature, art, homeware and interiors by designers from across the globe, Not Just Another Store focuses on “experiences, people and culture”, says co-founder Joel Adebayo. From emerging designers such as Sandy Liang to more established, sustainable brands like Re/Done, it’s a rich mix. “To be an independent business in the UK is a privilege and a blessing – we get to build a community of consumers who become an integral part of our mission to serve and invigorate high-street retail.”
8-13 New Inn Street, London EC2A 3PY (notjustanotherstore.com)
Angela Flanders
For those who want to immerse themselves in the heady world of perfumery, Angela Flanders perfumers is an immersive experience. Founded eponymously in 1985, it continues to thrive on London’s Columbia Road, now run by her daughter Kate, who presides over in-house scents, such as
