Shoreditch update - June

After a hectic weekend in East London, I wanted to do a round up of hot new places in Shoreditch, having been inspired by my visit as always. It's a hotbed of creativity and I am lucky that my sister lives five minutes from the action. Brick Lane and Redchurch Street are two of my favourite shopping areas in London, due to the quirky boutiques and designers that have taken up residence in the area.

Fashion

The Mercantile London - 17 Lamb Street



I love Current Elliot and you can find it here alongside Dr Denim and Baum und Pferdgarten.  This place is quirky and friendly, with one-off pieces and great staff.

themercantilelondon.com

Precious  - 16 Artillery Passage



A former Harvey Nicks buyer is in charge of selecting the stock for this store on Artillery Passage, and it shows with brands such as Carven, DvF and Day Malene Birger to browse.

precious-london.com

Mingili London - 75 Redchurch Street



I love this store. The staff are extremely friendly and knowledgeable, one of the designers is often in the store and very willing to answer any questions. They have recently opened a very cool, monochrome downstairs area for those liking their black draped clothing. Upstairs, find a mix of collections from around the world, including Italy and Seoul. Beautiful design and detail with great vintage accessories.

mk2uk.com

Beauty

Aesop - 44 Redchurch Street



Everyone loves a good apothecary and Aesop doesn't disappoint. I particularly like the hand lotion on the door outside. The place smells divine and the quality of the Australian products is second to none.

aesop.com/uk

Food and Drink

Tramshed - 32 Rivington Street



Marx Hix has done it again - a trendy steak and chicken restaurant in Rivington Street is his latest successful project. There's even Damien Hirst art! The chicken turns up looking like a sculpture!

chickenandsteak.co.uk

Merchants Tavern - 36 Charlotte Road



TV chef Angela Hartnett's new eaterie caters for both grazers and bigger eaters - grab sharing plates at the bar alongside an exquisite cocktail, or opt for an a a la carte experience where you can watch your food being prepared in the open kitchen.

merchantstavern.co.uk

Furniture

A Portugeuse Love Affair - 142 Columbia Road



Vamos to PLA for all things Portugeuse - the craftmanship is second to none and stock includes beautiful artisanal soap, pottery and stationery, as well as great books.

facebook.com/A.Portuguese.Love.Affair

Hotels

Ace Hotel - 100 Shoreditch High Street



I want to go here soon and hang out in the coffee shop in the lobby and check out the florist and the gallery. Yes, all of this is to be found at the Ace Hotel. You can socialise, work and relax in the lobby, designed for locals as well as guests.

acehotel.com