After finishing GCSEs in 2017 and the first prospect of a long summer ahead (long summers are now somewhat of the norm given university terms are so short), there lay days of freedom and exploration. These day trips manifested themselves into many blog posts, one of which was the independent shop’s rise. Whilst I write about 1000 words to really say independent shops are great, you can indeed just Google independent shops in x town; that opinion post still stands the test of four years. Only now it’s more at the forefront of our minds that independent businesses really do actually make a town unique and support the local economy. From restaurants and bars to boutiques full of hidden treasures, I’m not sure what the first thing you search for when you first look for a place now is, but ‘independent’ is always my focal point. That and a Tik-Tok search on a similar vein.
Step aside for The Pop-up shop, enabling brands this year to flourish due to the complement of online shopping and a physical shop. More than a day market, less permanent than a typical store; they enable consumers to have an insight into sustainable shopping that is often primarily online, offering more personalised experiences than a shop intended for longevity. It’s not unusual to find the company’s founders running the Pop-up, indicative of a more personal shopping experience we all hope to experience. The pick of the Pop-ups is here to stay. Here are a few of my favourites, whether that be past, present or future. Where to find them online and, hopefully, in real life.
It’s not surprising that By Rotation feature in this post, given my very vocal love for the company as a game-changer in the rental sphere. Their pop up at the beginning of July was a resounding success, extended by a week, and it’s likely there is another on the cards. So if, like me, you missed out on getting to visit, don’t fear. The rental community lives on through their community-based app, a pioneer of the rental revolution.
More than just a Pop-up shop, but a community, The Pop Up Girls was a pleasure to visit last month (in fact, I ended up going twice for their closing party too). A celebration of female-led brands, from Lydia Bolton to Ballsy Jung. Of course, I didn’t leave the shop empty-handed, adorning a new ring in one hand and a complimentary white claw in the other. Their Instagram and website continue to celebrate the female makers, and if you prefer the physicality of shopping, then don’t fear: there is a new Pop-up shop on the horizon.
Currently open on Kings Road, Chica By Choy was a Pop-up I was lucky enough to visit in their Lymington location last year. To see the growth and variety of independent brands come together reflects changing consumer habits that put the maker and designer at the front of the brand, as the future of retail should. There are stories to tell behind every shop front, but also every individual artisan.
The Sustainable Pop Up seemed to ‘pop up’ on my Instagram earlier this month, as they shared their current pop up shop in London. A place for sustainable brands to come together and evoke sustainable conversations through their products and workshops, there is no denying how successful the store was. One of the designers, Saywood Studios, lent a few pieces for our recent university fashion show at Durham so this Pop-up has a special place in my heart. Fear not, there is already a new date on the cards for the 15th-29th November. Time to peruse the site in prep for their next venture.
Like many things these days, Vino Kilo was a Pop-up shop discovered thanks to Tik Tok. Not just UK based, you can find your nearest Pop-up store on their website. Their Instagram alone is worth following for pre-loved styling inspiration, and vintage looks from around the world.
It’s clear that, despite their temporal location, Pop-up shops are here to stay. They are also here to expand, like The Pop-up Club, which has shops in Chelmsford, Brighton, Manchester and London. Their website describes the stores as the future of retail – an accurate reflection on the state of Pop-up shops currently. Aiding to the diversity of choice, as well as championing unique and sustainable products, there’s no denying why the Pop-up Club is a club I’d very much like to sign up for.
It’s easy to summarise: there is something out there for everyone. If you know any other Pop-up shops worth visiting, leave a comment below!
Eleanor x
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