But how much do you actually pay attention to the places and shops that make up each area? Hidden in plain sight is a good way to describe many of East London’s little boutiques so armed with my trusty Hype App a few friends and I went exploring.
HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT
As Shoreditch comes full circle with it’s rejuvenation it’s not surprising to see numerous bike shops pop up to ensure you get to work in style even if it means parting with a few months rent to do so.
tokyobike just off Tabernacle Street was my particular favouite. Founded in 2002 in a quiet Tokyo suburb of Yanaka, tokyobike has grown in reputation over the last decade as a maker of delicate yet comfortable bikes that are perfectly suited for city riding.
In addition to the bikes the shop is littered with trinkets and accessories for your home, all neatly organised in minimal fashion that truly live up to the company’s Japanese heritage.
STUCK IN A BUBBLE
Perfect for a hot summers day, the Taiwanese bubble tea was a welcome surprise during our trip through the Shoreditch Boxpark. In it’s native country of Taiwan bubble tea is the drink of choice, coming in a range of flavours such as coconut, taro milk, passionfruit, lychee and jasmine it would be rude not to give it a try.
Although the initial taste is somewhat slimey the tapioca bubbles are all natural and include elements of cassava, sweet potato and yam that give the tea it’s healthy properties. If you’re in the area make sure to give The Milk Tea & Pearl studio a visit.
ARTISAN SHOPPING
Past closing hours we were invited to see behind the scenes of Fiorentini + Baker‘s flagship Shoreditch store. This Anglo-Italian footwear brand has decided to situate itself in the busy East End which speaks volumes of their meteoric success since it’s foundation in 2001.
Fiorentini + Baker’s no nonsense approach to design ensures the highest quality of artisan products with shoes and bags made in small artisan factories in the south east of Italy. The shop itself shows nods to it’s Italian heritage with it’s old comfy leather sofas, mismatched vintage lamps and an open stock room that in itself is reminiscent of classic Victorian boutiques.
STYLEGRAM
I hope you enjoyed taking this little trip with me. Make sure to check out Exploring Camden – PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNAL 06 for my latest street style post and follow Style Division to keep up to date.
