Getting the right look can be hard for us gents. Fashions are changing all the time, so it’s not always easy to stay up to date with the latest style. And in a minefield of man buns, fake spectacles and unironic beanie hats, we find it even more challenging to stay on trend in 2018.
But luckily, we have five favourite London clothing stores which offer a wide collection of sophisticated, subtle and modern designs to keep us right. Plus, with a mix of shops based in London as well as global men’s fashion stores retailing here in the capital, you’re sure to find something en vogue right on your doorstep.
Our 5 Favourite London Clothing Stores
1) Nigel Cabourn
Discovering the brand: With more than four decades of experience in the menswear industry, you may be surprised to learn that British cult clothing creator Nigel Cabourn doesn’t see himself as a fashion designer. Cabourn is the opposite – he does not follow trends or keep up with the latest looks. In fact, he makes them. A collector of original and vintage gear, including outdoor, sportswear and military pieces from around the world, Nigel Cabourn clothing has an original quality like no other. The latest collection for Autumn/Winter 18 features a revival of his authentic Camerman, a practical yet stylish jacket, made in England and with 100% Harris Tweed wool.
Why we love them: Real fashion and real quality, Nigel Cabourn is one of the London clothing stores which will give you a product that lasts a lifetime. The collection of menswear is manufactured using only first-rate fabrics, and with unassuming designs that never go out of style. You’ll find their flagship London clothing store, The Army Gym, in the centre of Covent Garden, delivering premium men’s fashion in a uniquely rustic setting.
2) Percival
Discovering the brand: This London men’s fashion brand goes beyond just S/S and A/W collections – they release up to eight seasons a year to ensure their clothing always remains fresh. Percival’s mission is to ‘subvert the classics’ – and that’s exactly what their range of men’s clothing does. Classic shirts with retro prints, plus a wide selection of other distinctive garments, allows Percival to provide simple style with an edgy twist. We’re especially fond of their laidback t-shirt range: 100% cotton, white tees, complete with embroidered bonsai trees, Pentax cameras and even a T-Rex.
Why we love them: Percival has that classically British flair and finesse that you just don’t find anywhere else in the world. Their inconspicuous and lowkey designs paradoxically stand out, but for all the right reasons. We love their simple, definitive looks designed right here in the UK, which is why Percival is one of our favourite online London menswear shops.
3) Veja
Discovering the brand: We’re not just about London clothing stores – every modern man needs quality footwear, too. That’s where Veja comes in. But their simple, stylish sneakers go one step further than the average men’s shoe. Veja is a socially responsible brand which takes nothing for granted. Ethical manufacturing, organically-farmed materials and raw fabrics are just a few of Veja’s focus points. Their vision is to achieve fair trade across the globe. But you don’t have to travel far – Veja is stocked right here in the capital. You can find Veja London men’s fashion sneakers in Soho, Marylebone and Dalston.
Why we love them: An environmentally-friendly brand delivering distinctive, sustainable products? It sounds like we share the same values as Veja. Here at Daimon Barber, we too strive for ethical sourcing and a fully-trackable supply chain. And while we might not be shoemakers, our products are crafted with the same principles and quality as Veja.
4) Oliver Spencer
Discovering the brand: What started out as a stall on Portobello Market soon became a stylish London clothing store. Named after the brand’s creator, OIiver Spencer is now one of the most premium choices for men’s clothing. Perfectly tailored yet comfortably casual, Oliver Spencer designs are a flawless combination of classic and modern. Think luxe, 100% wool bomber jackets, superior, slim-fitting shirts and genuine leather boots, Oliver Spencer can kit you out from head to toe. Their London men’s clothing shops can be found in Notting Hill, Soho, Shoreditch and Bloomsbury.
Why we love them: Oliver Spencer aims to be the best men’s clothing shop – and to them, that means providing menswear which works for the customers, the creators and the planet. The brand keeps a close eye on their ecological footprint by carefully watching their supply chain, visiting their factories in the UK and Portugal and increasing their use of organic fabrics every year. We’re glad to see another London clothing store taking care of both their consumers and their teams, all while looking after the environment.
5) Patagonia
Discovering the brand: Patagonia is fighting hard for change. They want a way out of our current environmental challenges, and they want it now. Patagonia is a true nature lover: an explorer of awe-inspiring places, which is reflected in their outdoor menswear range. From sleek, alpine shell jackets to subtle, rain protection trousers, Patagonia have everything you need for venturing into the great outdoors. Whether you’re into climbing, surfing, fly fishing, skiing, mountain biking or trail running, Patagonia can give you the right garments – without harming the environment.
Why we love them: You might remember when we were lucky enough to chat with Ben Fogle – British presenter, writer and all-round adventurer, whose recent triumphs include reaching the top of Mount Everest. But did you know Ben Fogle also spoke at an environmental PEA talk, held inside the Patagonia Covent Garden store? PEA is all about awarding those who are making change, so it’s only right Ben’s talk was hosted by Patagonia. You can also find this eco-friendly men’s clothes shop stocked in other parts of London, too, including Brixton, St James’s, Soho and Kensington.
Check out the rest of the Daimon Barber Journal for even more insight into #TheModernMan lifestyle. Don’t forget to keep up to date with our social side too – we’re on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Welcome to NOW.
