’Tis the Season to ShopLocal … (fa lalalala lala la la) says Frankie Holah, presenting some of her personal local favourites
If the thought of those central London crowds fills you with dread, check out our top picks for shopping local in Brixton this Christmas … from music to clothing, stocking fillers to art, there is so much on offer, right on your doorstep. Let’s #ShopLocal this festive season.
United 80
United 80 is all about music, art, and fashion, stocking unique and limited edition pieces by local artists. From streetwear to avant garde jewellery, vinyl compilations to Afro Supa mugs as well as gorgeous handmade garments by the in-demand GeoD, you can be sure that they stay off the beaten track to bring you the freshest gifts.
Find them at 80 Brixton Village
Nour Cash and Carry
Brixton’s famous cash and carry Nour needs no introduction. THE go-to for all of your fresh fruit, veg and world food needs; the bustling store may fool you with the narrow entrance, but work your way through the shoppers and it opens up into a cavern of delights. The Iranian Medjool dates are a must have at Christmas (or indeed any time of year – yum)!
Find them at 23 Market Row, Brixton
Diverse
The design-led gift shop Diverse needs no introduction. December sees the return of the annual showcase for Makerhood, the Lambeth online network that develops and promotes the work of local designer-makers. It’s a great opportunity to find handmade gifts on your doorstep and to support the local creative community at the same time.
Find them at 390 Coldharbour Lane
Market Row Wines
Wine, craft beer (featuring Brixton beer), prosecco … Oh, and port … need we say more? Market Row Wines have your Christmas tipples sorted … hic!
Find them at 20 Market Row, Brixton
Circus
Voted one of the top 100 independent shops by Time Out magazine, Circus has established itself as a destination to find beautiful one‑off pieces while championing local artists and makers. From vintage glassware to handmade wrapping paper, jewellery to blankets and pillows, you’ll always find unique and beautiful gifts.
Find them at 5th Avenue, Granville Arcade
Rachel and Malika
This gorgeous boutique is home to an eclectic mix of unusual home furnishings, jewellery and gifts from around the world, sourced solely by Rachel and Malika. All of the interior products and accessories are fairtrade, sourced directly from the makers themselves from as far and wide as Mexico, West Africa and India.
Find them at Unit 34, Granville Arcade
Full Moon Designs
Handcrafted jewellery inspired by nature. An ideal stopover for special gifts at affordable prices. Carole, who works on the premises, uses bronze, semi-precious stones, wood, fossils and crystals. Full Moon Designs also stocks a fine range of scarves.
Find her at Unit 8, First Avenue, Granville Arcade
20 Storey
Gifts galore at this boutique store with everything from books and candles to retro board games, light boxes, totes and toys! There is something for everyone at 20 Storey and it’s oh so colourful. Particularly good for stocking fillers and those who love something a little bit kooky.
Find them at 2A Market Row, Brixton
Studio 73
Selling art and framing in Brixton Village for more than six years, Studio 73 art gallery has framed up a “greatest hits” show in an Christmas Salon. You can buy affordable art and prints starting at a tenner. For presents, the Brixton Map is a bestseller, or you could splash out on a one-off canvas. Their card selection is pretty awesome too.
Find them at 73 Brixton Village
Dombey Wholesale Butchers
Award-winning resident butcher on Brixton’s Market Row, Michael has been in business for 35 years and is extremely popular with the locals. Open (including Mondays) all the way up to Christmas, you can pick up your festive meats, with the triple smoked ham being a popular purchase…don’t miss out and get your orders in early!
Find them at 19 Market Row
Rose and Thorn
This stunning boutique in the heart of Brixton Village is the perfect place to pick up one-off fashion and jewellery pieces (full collections by the owners themselves) alongside a selection of emerging and established brands. From cute leather change purses, beauty products and homeware, to dresses and pendants, you are guaranteed to pick up the prettiest of gifts this Christmas at Rose and Thorn.
Find them at 75 Brixton Village
The Keep Boutique
A curated selection of ethical fashion, The Keep Boutique stocks brands with integrity and a focus on sustainable style. Favourites for Christmas gifts include Nepalese handmade bobble hats, Nordic candles, bamboo socks and pulp paper earrings handmade by a women’s social enterprise in Swaziland. You’ll find pieces to be treasured!
Find them at 32-33 Brixton Village
And the last word . . .
Don’t just take our recommendations, Brixton’s abuzz with creative talent that pops up all over the place including Brixton Station Road on a Saturday. Wherever you go, you can’t go wrong. Last minute panic buyers, don’t worry. All you need is right here on your doorstep. See also
Brixton Market Traders Federation
