From the markets of west London’s Shepherd’s Bush to east London’s Dalston Mill, there’s a rich seam of fabric and haberdashery (notions) shops in London to explore. In the first of a series, we begin with our favourite shops in central London.
NEAR OXFORD CIRCUS
Liberty, London
On the third floor of the Tudor-revival building near Oxford Circus is a colourful wonderland of patterned fabrics. Liberty's iconic fabric line is immediately recognisable and the soft tana lawn cottons and silks are perfect for dressmakers and sewers far and wide. We've been excited to hear about the recent addition of the Merchant and Mills Concession selling their stylish fabrics, patterns and notions.
Regent St, Soho, London W1B 5AH, libertylondon.com
The Cloth House
A visit to The Cloth House is always a treat. From rolls of pretty gingham, cotton poplin, to ikat and mudcloth, the owners travel the world to source fabrics to share with their customers in London. Top off your swag bag with some of their trimmings, threads and buttons.
47 Berwick St, Soho, London W1F 8SJ, clothhouse.com
Borovik Fabrics
Offering a range of specialist fabrics, Borovik Fabrics is the oldest fabric shop in Soho and was established on Berwick Street in 1932. It has been described by London’s Evening Standard newspaper as “the best materials shop” in London. Costume designers using their fabrics have gone on to win Baftas, Emmys, Tonys and even Oscars! The fabrics available are also suitable for fashion, interiors, tailoring and much more.
16 Berwick St, Soho, London W1F 0HP (located in Berwick Street Market) borovickfabrics.com
Misan Fabrics & Misan Textiles
Also on Berwick Street are Misan Fabrics and Misan Textiles. Misan Fabrics offer a variety of traditional fabrics from fine silks, French lace, jacquards, brocades, velvets, and tweeds. A few doors down, Misan Textiles has a large selection of technical fabrics, jerseys, corduroys (they have 55 different colours and weights), linens, crepes, real and faux leathers, cotton twills and drills, and cutting edge fabrics including bonded fabrics, pastel pleathers, mock crocodile leather and a range of fabulous lames.
Misan Fabrics, 4 Berwick Street, Misan Textiles, 52 Berwick St, Soho, London W1F 0DR misan.co.uk
MacCulloch & Wallis
Behind bustling Oxford Street is Macculloch & Wallis, a Victorian shop offering traditional haberdashery and fine fashion fabrics and trimmings. Set over two-stories there’s plenty of choices so make sure you have lots of time to peruse…
25-26 Poland St, Soho, London W1F 8QN macculloch-wallis.co.uk
NEAR MARYLEBONE
Joel & Sons
Just around the corner from Marylebone Station is fabric emporium Joel & Sons. The shop holds the Royal Warrant and is a superstore for couture fabrics as well as offering cottons, silks, chiffon, taffetas and velvets to name a few. Beyond the fabrics, the shop also stocks ribbons, lace and accessories. The expert staff are experts and are happy to offer assistance and guidance to help you find what you’re looking for.
73-87 Church St, Marylebone, London NW8 8EU, joelandsonfabrics.com
VV Rouleaux
VV Rouleaux can be found just off Marylebone High Street and walking through the doors is like entering a sweet shop! Full of ribbons and stylish trimmings for every occasion. Find inspiration before you even walk through the door with the VV Inspire section of the website where founder Annabel Lewis shares ways of embellishing, adorning and creating with ribbons and trims.
102 Marylebone Ln, Marylebone, London W1U 2QD vvrouleaux.com
NEAR ANGEL
Raystitch
In the north London neighbourhood of Islington, you’ll find Raystitch. Founder Rachel Hart wanted to create a traditional haberdashery shop where a sewer could spend an enjoyable hour carefully choosing the bits and pieces for a planned project. We think that she’s done just that! The shop also hosts regular sewing classes for those who have a little more time.
66 Essex Rd, Islington, London N1 8LR, raystitch.co.uk
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