Jacket, Shirt, T-Shirt, Trousers by Whistles Men | Whistles x Buddy Sneakers | Form & Thread Socks
With the first dedicated Whistles Men's store recently opening in East London we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to explore the close-knit community which centres around Boundary Street, Redchurch Street and its surrounding area. Located just off Shoreditch High Street, the new store is just a stone's throw away from some of the city's coolest independent stores, cafes and hangouts.
Along with photographer Jonathan Daniel Pryce aka Garcon Jon, my buddy Oliver Hoosen and the Whistles Men team we headed out around the area to explore some of our favourite hot spots, and get to know Whistles' new neighbours:
Short Sleeve shirt by Whistles | Glasses by Glint London
Mast Brothers
It was a warm day, and chocolate probably shouldn't have been on high priority, but it's hard not to be drawn in by the perpetual sweet smell of Mast Bro's chocolately goodness. If you wander down Redchurch Street you'll be faced with their warehouse factory-style store, complete with ever-changing window display, coffee bar and daily workshop tours.
Le Labo
Another store in the area which plays loopy with your olfactory system is Le Labo. Their signature and experimental unisex fragrances are all neatly arranged within this dimply lit, Americana-inspired apothecary store. Kitted out with antique dark wooden furniture, heavy steel fixtures and timeless New York sensibilities. Take a peak at their fuctional lab in the back too!
Sonos Studio
This is a place that I've often walked past but never stopped to take a closer look. Sonas Studio is a regular hangout for the Whistles Men staff, serving as the perfect super-chill escape, from the often fast-paced environment of Shoreditch. Sonos Studios provides the perfect open-plan space for freelancers or anyone looking for a break from their stuffy office.
All clothing by Whistles | Whistles x Buddy Tote Bag | Nike Killshot 2 + Converse 70s | Fairends Baseball Cap
Allpress Espresso Bar
Our list may be quite caffeine-heavy but East London is chock-a-block with ideal hangouts. One of the most popular spots is definitely Allpress Espresso. Oli said he couldn't walk past without nipping in for one of their modestly sized flat whites. Little and often, they say. Inside you'll find a decent selection of coffee, tea, locally-baked food, and home brewing equipment for purchase.
Modern Society
Modern Society is known for dedicating its retail space to emerging and established small labels, and artists from around the world. Up front you'll find a relaxed cafe bar - complete with Sandow's Cold Brew - and throughout the rest of the 1920s-inspired interior it's clothing and accessories by brands such as
Electric Feathers, Grayers, Hasami Porcelain and WANT Les Essentiels.
The General of Redchurch Street, Timothy Everest's Leon Cerrone
Whistles x Buddy Collection
Rochelle Canteen
One of the gems found within Arnold Circus – just a few streets adjacent to the Whistles Men Boundary Street store – is the beautiful Rochelle Canteen. Renovated from a school bikeshed into a modern, relaxed cafe restaurant, complete with Ercol chairs and an impressive collection of wicker sun hats, Rochelle Canteen is by the highly respected catering company Arnold & Henderson. One of the area's best kept secrets.
Several;
Making great use of the converted Arnold School is one of Rochelle Canteen's closest neighbourhood – Several. Having followed this contemporary menswear label since their formation just a couple of years ago, it was a proper treat to visit their store and meet the team. As well as stocking their own line of apparel they carry a selection of Japanese + American brands that are over wise hard to find across the UK.
Nike Lab
The innovated Nike Lab store has held up residency in Shoreditch since 2014. Located within the converted railway arch, below the London Overground line, and offical owners of the springiest shop front in history, Nike Lab carries some of the brand's most forward-thinking and exclusive collections; from their Flyknit + ACG gear, to limited edition collaborations + bespoke iD service.
Instrmnt 01-B Watch | Shinola Card Holder | Whistles Sunglasses
Goodhood
This store needs little introduction, with no trip to East London being complete without swinging by Goodhood. For many of us, a lot of our spending is done online, but the experience that comes with stepping foot in a physical store can't be replaced. Goodhood is one of those stores I look forward to visiting; with their carefully selected mix of men's + women's contemporary streetwear, workwear and independent brands, homeware, skincare and design gifts.
toykobike
Having just spent two days cycling around Toyko (post coming very soon!) we couldn't miss out on a store that started designing bikes in the suburb of Yanaka. With the name "toykobike" being appropriated for its intended use (the "perfect bike for Toyko"), their single speed, town bikes and curious Mini Velo model have translated perfectly in East London.
S.C.P
Another store which is a dead cert for a visit is the furniture and design store, S.C.P. Housed over two large floors, and fully-stocked with an endless amount of products that I'd love to own, S.C.P also comes highly recommended from our good buddy Yasumi. On ground level you'll find fully licenced home furniture, homeware accessories, design and travel magazines, and a small Allpress Espresso bar to keep you entertained. Downstairs is an Aladdin's Cave of colourful gifts; from Japanese pottery and watches, to stationery and a great selection of vintage toys.
Big thank you to Gemma from Whistles for making this feature happen. Be sure to follow Garcon Jon & Oliver Hoosan on Instagram.
Thank you for reading,
Mat
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