Chinatown chic: Exploring Chinatown's Dynamic Asian Street Fashion Scene
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Xan Soho house album launch party
The Rise of a Contemporary British Iconoclast Fashion Brand: Nominal london 37 Emperor
The dynamic streets of London serve as a mesmerising tapestry where a decadence of cultures proudly unveils their distinctive stories. In recent years, the city has witnessed a notable surge of Asian influence, with the allure of Asian street fashion making an enduring impact on London's fashion landscape. From the bustling markets of Chinatown to the sophisticated boutiques of Shoreditch, the melding of traditional Asian design principles with modern London flair has emerged as a defining feature of the city's fashion scene. This harmonious fusion of East and West encapsulates a trend that celebrates tradition, creativity, and the very essence of fashion itself. This captivating amalgamation exhibits a lively and diverse fashion narrative that perfectly captures the vibrant essence of the city.
As you wander through the lively streets of Chinatown, you'll find yourself drawn to the kaleidoscope of fashion expressions that define this vibrant neighbourhood. Every turn unveils a captivating display of unique styles, where young trendsetters skillfully fuse traditional cultural elements with a contemporary streetwear twist, resulting in captivating and culturally rich outfits.
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It's not uncommon to encounter fashionforward individuals confidently showcasing a modern take on a hanbok top paired with chic highwaisted jeans or effortlessly pulling off a fusion of a cheongsaminspired dress with bold sneakers. This seamless integration of Eastern and Western influences gives rise to a fashion landscape that feels both familiar and wonderfully innovative.
Chinatown is a place rich in history and culture, with a strong community that embraces both old traditions and new ideas. The fashion in Chinatown has evolved significantly over time due to shifting traditions, demographic changes, and the influence of new cultures. From traditional attire to the modern Gen Z aesthetic, Chinatown's fashion exemplifies the seamless blending of cultures. Chinatown in London is a bustling tourist hotspot known for its vibrant culture, authentic cuisine, and unique shops. However, it's interesting to note that the current Chinatown is not the original one.
Did knowyou where chinatown originally was located?
Chinatown Limehouse carries a rich historical legacy as London's first Chinatown, harking back to its inception in the late 1920s within the bustling London Docklands. Initially a hub of trade and commerce, Limehouse drew in a diverse group of sailors from South and East Asia, owing to the operations of the British East India Trading Company. This convergence of cultures fostered the establishment of shops and eateries, marking the genesis of London's maiden Chinatown.
However, the ravages of World War II dealt a heavy blow to Limehouse, leaving it in ruins and leading to a decline in the Chinese community's prosperity and stability.
In the post-war era, the allure of Soho as a vibrant and affordable locale drew the London Chinese community, shaping it into a vibrant hub renowned for its culinary prowess and cultural vibrancy. Over time, Chinatown flourished, evolving into the iconic cultural centre that we recognize today — adorned with distinctive gates, traditional bakeries, and a lively, multicultural atmosphere. The vibrant area represents a melting pot of diverse traditions and a forward-looking community that honours its heritage while embracing the promise of the future.
Who is your biggest fashion influence and why
Summer Cullen 19
“Daisy Birchall - a creator whose style ranges from streetwear to chic, I love the contrast between these styles as it allows me to change my aesthetic and express myself”
Kiara Levers 19
Helena Jones 20
“Koleen Diaz on Instagram as she mixes streetwear clothing with feminine silhouettes and jewellery to get the best of both worlds”
“Kaci Jay is an influencer and a youtuber, I love getting inspiration from her for my outfits because I love the classy/clean girl aesthetic that Kaci exemplifies”
Mustafa Ahmed 26
“I dont have a fashion influence as I believe that people should wear what they feel comfortable in”
Cassie House 19
My fashion influencer is Ashia Mian tt influencer as her style is chic and elegant and she always looks classy and put together.
Sulayman, 18
My fashion influencer is Allen Iverson, he completely transformed how athletes dress and has a bold expressive style.
Katie Millie Mook, 20
My biggest fashion influence comes from my music, I like rock so generally Joan Jett, Debbie Harry, and Kate Moss, for example.
Erin, 24
I’d have to name Bella Hadid as my biggest fashion influence, she can just pull anything off.
VINTAGE REVIVAL AND THE
RISE OF SECOND HAND FASHION
VINTAGE
revival
If you are a fashion loverShoreditch is the place to be! Whether you are on the hunt for a unique gift, antique furniture or a one-of-a-kind item of clothing, Brick Lane is full off endless gems. We asked shoppers on Brick Lane for their favourite vintage stores and had a look for ourselves in order for you to have the best guide possible but before we get into that; lets talk about the public’s opinions on vintage fashion.
We sent out a survey to the lovely people we met whilst searching Brick Lane and asked them about secondhand and vintage shopping. Let’s delve into their responses. There was a pattern in responses since 100% of respondents said they “shop on apps like
A trip to Brick Lane to assess the popularity of vintage and second-hand shopping amongst Gen Z in London
Vinted, Depop etc” and they also all clicked “Yes” to the question “Do you prefer vintage/secondhand shopping to fast fashion and why?” Our favourite response was “I prefer vintage clothing to fast fashion because vintage clothes are unique and well-made, so they last longer because they are better quality and help me stand out as I wouldn’t find a person wearing the same style as me. They also help the environment by reducing waste since I'm reusing clothes instead of constantly buying new ones. Plus, I don't want to support the poor working conditions often found in the fast fashion industry.“
It is clear that the public favours vintage and second-hand fashion due to its many benefits.
Let us look at the public recommendations of the top spots to shop around Brick Lane.
ATIKA - 55, 59 Hanbury St, London E1 5JP
Victorian warehouse for vast vintage fashion, lifestyle and secondhand homeware.
ROKIT - 101 Brick Ln, London E1 6SE
Vintage clothing for men and women fashion.
Brick Lane Vintage Market - 85 Brick Ln, London E1 6QL
Buzzing underground vintage market with several stalls & open 7 days a week.
The Rise of Second-Hand Fashion and Vintage Clothing in London
London’s fashion scene is witnessing a dynamic shift as second-hand and vintage clothing takes centre stage. Once considered niche, these sustainable fashion choices have become mainstream, reflecting a broader change in consumer attitudes toward environmental responsibility, individuality, and unique style.
The growing awareness of the environmental impact of fast fashion is a key driver behind this trend. London, known for its trendsetting culture, has embraced second-hand fashion as both a sustainable choice and a lifestyle. According to a 2022 WRAP report, over 60% of UK consumers now buy secondhand clothing, with urban areas like London leading the charge.
Vintage fashion, too, has seen a resurgence. London’s iconic markets, like Portobello Road and Brick Lane, have long attracted style-conscious shoppers. Today, these markets
along with specialised vintage shops, are more popular than ever. Vintage clothing offers a unique appeal: it’s not just about sustainability but also about owning pieces that tell a story and stand out from the fast fashion crowd.
Technology and social media have significantly fuelled this trend. Platforms like Depop and Vinted make it easier to buy and sell pre-loved clothing, while influencers on Instagram and TikTok have glamorised thrifted and vintage finds, inspiring a new generation of fashion-conscious consumers.
The rise of second-hand and vintage fashion in London is more than just a passing trend—it’s a movement that’s reshaping the fashion industry. As consumers continue to prioritise sustainability and individuality, these alternatives to fast fashion are set to become permanent fixtures in wardrobes across the UK.
In London
Sundays are the day of rest, but not for London, here it is a vibrant day for fashion inspiration. Sundays in London are a visual feast of creativity and individuality - explore our recommendations on how to spend your Sunday before we look at the public Sunday attire as well as how they spend their day
1.COLUMBIA ROAD FLOWER MARKET
A stone’s throw from Brick Lane is London’s most famous flower market. Head up there from 8am-3pm.
2. VISIT A LOCAL FARMERS MARKET
Open on Sundays are: Ally Pally (Muswell Hill), Blackheath, Camberwell, Chatsworth Road, Earls Court, Greenwich, Herne Hill, Highgate Hill, Islington, Marylebone, Peckham, Parsons Green, Queens Park, Tottenham Green, Walthamstow, West Hill.
3.
SEE A WEST END SHOW
Some shows have Sunday performances including The Lion King, Thriller Live and Matilda.
4. THE LONDON DUNGEON
Learn about London’s history while having some scary fun with live actors in 19 shows and thrilling rides.
5. BOROUGH MARKET
Britain’s most renowned food market is an amazing place to buy produce, eat street food or drink and dine in one of the surrounding bars and restaurants.
Outfits in London
The day the city comes alive with fashion statements reflecting the diverse culture and energy of London's streets. Let’s learn how locals spend their Sunday whilst capturing their outfits.
- Columbia Road Flower Market
- explored Central London
- Pub lunch and a dog walk
girlfriend
RIBA - Visited her horse at the stables
FARHANA
LILI - Portobello Road Market
JAMAL - Bottomless brunch with his
ZAHRAH
YASMIN
HIDDEN LONDON
HIDDEN LONDON HIDDEN LONDON
WATERLOO
FASHION WITH UNI
FASHION WITH UNI
How have you been influenced by fashion ?
’ve always had an interest towards fashion and i recently i have access to the type of clothes i want to wear.
How did you find the location?
Through evolving my style i was able to become more comfortable in my skin and express myself more creatively.
what do you like about London?
Finding the location wasn’t hard for me as my friends had suggested the places . I had known of it before.
Howdid you explore to make time to explore London or enjoy your youth while being a full time student?
i like the friends that I’ve made here, and i le how diverse it is. A lot happens in London , so there’s a lot of opportunities to meet cool people and get good connections.
extreme time management skills during my term times . I would almost plan my day down to the hour and maximize productivity, so the faster and more efficiently i get my school work done the more time i had to have fun, i also gave up sleep.
What advice would you give to people looking to explore fashion?
my advice is just go for it, i promise no one cares and no one is looking at you.( and if they are looking at you that means you’re that impactful.
A young model and fashion lover who has already worked with brands such as Burberry, Cernucci, walked in Paris Fashion Week and so much more. Rakim embraces several fashion aesthetics from preppy to minimalist to sportswear - he is not afraid to adventure with his style as a way to express himself and make a statement. Rakim can be seen wearing jewellery such as chunky rings or even small hooped earrings. Currently he is signed to agencies in England, France and Italy and even juggles football alongside modelling, self care days, spending time with his family as well as fun days out with friends as he is still only 20 years old. Rakims story is very inspirational since he grew up in London with no ties to the fashion industry, but was scouted whilst shopping with his friends on Oxford Street and from there his new life in the industry began and he left
behind a different life consisting of getting involved in bad crowds and having negative influences around- his story exemplifies the fact that being around the “wrong crowd” can lead you astray and he thanks God for giving him the opportunity to do something with his passion for self expression through clothing, accessories and jewellery; he did not feel comfortable enough to wear what he desired whilst he was growing up since his friends did not share the same fashion sense as him and often made jokes about his personal style - he laughs that “now they support me fully since they have seen my work and how far it has gone in such a short space of time” He would like to work with a few sportswear brands such as Nike or Adidas since he has always loved to play and watch football since a child.
The street style in Camden is distinct and daring. People are unafraid to experiment with bold colours, patterns, and unconventional combinations. This creative and individualistic approach to fashion is a hallmark of Camden’s cultural identity.
"The type of clothing and sense of style you would typically find in London are very funky and full of flavor. It's often said that the weirder, the better! The international aspect of London's fashion scene means that trends are not as mainstream. People start their own fashion trends on a daily basis, so at some point, you give up trying to follow them and focus on becoming more creative and original with your fashion choices. This is why the residents of London tend to be much more original in their style."
CAMDEN TOWN IS KNOWN FOR ITS UNIQUE CULTURE. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CULTURAL SCENE IN THIS AREA?
“Camden is a vibrant hub of creativity and diversity with a rich musical history and iconic venues like the Roundhouse and Electric Ballroom. Street art is abundant, and there's a strong sense of community with numerous local events and markets. Camden is a vibrant hub of creativity and diversity. The area has a rich musical history, featuring iconic venues such as the Roundhouse and Electric Ballroom, which have hosted legendary performances. Street art is abundant, and the creative energy is palpable just by taking a stroll. Additionally, a strong sense of community with numerous local events and markets fosters togetherness.”
WHAT ABOUT THE LIFESTYLE IN CAMDEN TOWN?
“Life in Camden is vibrant and always full of surprises. There are bustling markets such as Camden Lock Market, where you can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts. It's a haven for foodies, offering cuisine from around the world. There's always something new and exciting to try. Additionally, there are plenty of green spaces, like Regent’s Park, where you can relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE SPOTS IN CAMDEN TOWN?
“I enjoy going to the Jazz Café for live music; it has such an intimate atmosphere. For food, there’s an amazing vegan place called Mildreds, which is a must-try. And of course, just wandering through the markets and along the canal is a favourite pastime. The Hawley Arms is great for a drink and has a rich history of hosting famous musicians.”
HOW DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF CAMDEN TOWN?
“I hope Camden continues to thrive as a cultural hub, balancing growth with the preservation of its unique character. The creative energy here is incredible, and I think it will keep attracting artists, musicians, and free spirits who want to be part of something special.”
backgrounds and expertise to create more than just a brand; Nominal represents an attitude. Initially, Nominal started as a platform to create unique garments that cannot be found elsewhere but soon morphed into a fashion house creating clothing for those who unapologetically express themselves. Whether celebrating through fashion, art, or music, the essence of Nominal is bringing people together.
talented artist Dzidzia Wilk, showcases her vibrant and unique art style. In keeping with Nominal's inclusive ethos, the collection was intentionally designed to be gender-neutral, catering to a diverse range of individuals. Not content to stop there, Nominal has also delved into rebellious, punkinspired fashion through a collaboration with the renowned mosaic artist Ed Chapman. More than just a clothing brand, Nominal London encourages individuals to express themselves unapologetically.
Krisztina Kalman is a highly accomplished professional who holds a Finance MBA from NYU Stern in New York. She has an extensive background in commodity research, with a specific focus on base and precious metals. Her expertise and dedication in this field led her to establish a successful company.
Despite her flourishing career in commodity research, Krisztina always harboured a deep passion for the fashion industry. Driven by her desire for a new challenge, she decided to explore the fashion world and soon discovered her untapped creative talents. Drawing on her analytical skills, she seamlessly transitioned into the world of fashion.
It was during this transformative period that Krisztina crossed paths with her future co-founder of Nominal. Together, they shared a vision and a dream, and thus, Nominal London was brought to life through their collaborative efforts. Krisztina's journey from the world of commodity research to the fashion industry is a testament to her versatility, entrepreneurial spirit, and determination to pursue her passions.
Krisztina Kalman
"Fashion is the easiest way to express yourself without saying a word" - Sean Solomon
In 2018, Sean Solomon, a creative director and co-founder of Nominal London, embarked on his creative journey when he relocated to London. Originally starting his career as a model, Sean's ambition was to transition into the music industry. As he began to expand his professional network, he realized that the modelling industry did not align with his long-term goals.
Consequently, he shifted his focus towards artist management and successfully worked with two artists for three years. Subsequently, Sean further diversified his professional portfolio by becoming a DJ for the esteemed UK music label A&R.
A pivotal moment in Sean's journey occurred when he crossed paths with Krsztina and discovered their shared passion and vision. This encounter led to the collaborative establishment of Nominal London, representing a significant milestone in Sean's career trajectory.
