Black Friday has become synonymous with huge sales and impulsive shopping, but the environmental impact is undeniable. In 2023, UK shoppers are expected to generate over 400 million items of packaging waste, much of it linked to fast fashion, contributing to an additional 300,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. It makes you wonder, was the discount really worth it?
For those looking for a more sustainable shopping experience, independent pop-ups and local markets offer handmade, upcycled, and ethically-produced clothing and accessories that not only reduce waste, but also support local artisans. Skip the fast fashion sales and discover the best sustainable clothing pop-ups this Black Friday for more mindful shopping and more meaningful gift-giving.
APOC STORE
SOHO, LONDON, 29TH NOVEMBER
Acclaimed online fashion platform APOC STORE is stepping out of the digital world and into its first in-person pop-up store in Shoreditch this weekend. Set in a former underground club, the pop-up will host over 70 creatives, bringing together the London-based business’s favourite local fashion innovators alongside more than 50 international designers.
The pop-up will also introduce a new roster of designers exclusively available in-store – including Ed Curtis, Illana Blumberg and A Jilted Buttplug – and introducing opportunities to commission custom designs, making it perfect for personalised gifting.
To ensure an intimate shopping experience without the usual holiday crowding, the pop-up will operate on a booking system, which customers can reserve in one-hour slots via a booking link or by sending a DM to @apocstore. For those without a booking, limited daily drop-in slots will be available
Free entry with booked time slot. Open until 2nd December.
RHI DANCEY
SHOREDITCH LONDON – 29TH NOVEMBER
Welsh designer Rhi Dancey’s latest collaborative pop-up is landing Dalston, London this Friday. Since launching in 2020, Dancey has developed her bedroom-grown brand from a clothing label into an all-female collective and agency supporting creative visionaries in London and Berlin.
Dancey’s brand has now built a reputation for its inclusive pop-ups that host a roster of designers. London’s latest pop-up will showcase curated pieces by Kick in The Eye, Maldonado, Hannah Creak, Iska Oris, Favourite Child Collective, Kenza Iatrides, Melissa Tida, and BRICKS favourite kilt maker Hairy Mary, as well as the Rhi Dancey label.
Free entry. Open until 1st December.
SENJA BY MADDIE
SHOREDITCH, LONDON – 29TH NOVEMBER
This weekend, independent designer Senja by Maddie is hosting a one-stop shop for all your party looks, Christmas presents, and festive workshop needs. “Senja” is the Indonesian word for “dusk, sunset or twilight”, which is a fitting description of the designer’s style that explores dye techniques, brightly coloured prints and second-hand materials, all paying homage to the designer’s Indonesian heritage.
At the pop-up, shoppers can peak at Senja’s Autumn/Winter capsule collection as well as one-of-one upcycled coats and cardigans. The designer will also be hosting a t-shirt printing workshop while Samara Lou Willis will be sharing her playful and ethical crafting techniques with a bag charm and accessories workshop, ideal for adding frilled adornments to any handmade gifts or wrapping.
Free entry, tickets available for workshops. Open until 10th December, 11AM – 7PM daily.
INDEPENDENT JEWELLERS’ MARKET
WALTHAMSTOW, LONDON – 1ST DECEMBER
With over 50 jewellery artists and designers, from established to emerging talents showcasing their work, this market is ideal for those looking to discover unique pieces and support local artisans. Discover forged folk charms, chunky block rings, custom nameplate necklaces, pearl bracelets, bold bangles, sculpted porcelain brooches, and a treasure trove of other trinkets. The market is held at Big Penny Social in Walthamstow by DIY Art Market and is fully accessible for wheelchair users – plus, dog-friendly – so it’s the best spot in town this weekend for everyone to enjoy.
Entry: £1.50 on the door, or book tickets here. Open 11am – 6pm.
LUNCH CONCEPT STORE
GLASGOW – 6TH DECEMBER
Scottish concept store LUNCH returns to Glasgow for one week, bringing a host of new, independent designers to the city’s West End. For its 6th pop-up, LUNCH will offer clothing, jewellery and accessories that reflect individuality and creativity. Each of the designers stocked at LUNCH is an independent maker – conceptualising and producing designs in teams as small as one – including Scotland’s stylish Annabel Stewart, Solace and PAS.COS.
LUNCH works with made-to-order and small-batch production designers to prioritise a methodical, sustainable approach to dressing. Seasonless and unmoved by trends, it’s the ideal place to grab a gift for those who prioritise authenticity and artistry in their wardrobe.
INDIE BAZAAR’S ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS MARKET
STOKE NEWINGTON, LONDON – 6TH DECEMBER
A new market for your alt Christmas calendar, Indie Bazaar is hosting its first-ever market in Stoke Newington. The pop-up will feature a colourful and curated line-up of unique independent brands offering homeware, fashion, fragrance, beauty, art, food & drink. From Niamh Phillips Ceramics and Gimme Kaya’s crochet to LORDS Fragrance House and Rythmik Cocktails, there is something for everyone, and with tarot readers, kids play and dog-friendly premises, this has all the festivities you’ll
Free tickets via Eventbrite.
QUEERMAS BY LDN QUEER MART
DEPTFORD, LONDON – 8TH DECEMBER
Hosted by London Queer Mart, Queermas is returning to The Albany this Christmas. Showcasing over 100 up-and-coming queer artists and small businesses, all from a wide range of artistic backgrounds, this inclusive market offers visitors the opportunity to discover a unique range of artwork, including art prints, ceramics, zines, clothing, originals, publications, risograph prints, sculptures, jewellery, textiles, and more.
London Queer Mart is a community-led organisation run by Boe from Boe Studios and Kim from A Whole Orange. It’s the sort of event you can come to alone, with a friend or partner or in a big group – either way you’ll be sure to meet other lovely LGBTQIA+ folk and feel the love of your community.
£2 entry. More details here.
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