London is a melting pot of cultures, creativity, and fashion, making its street style one of the most diverse and trendsetting in the world. Whether you’re wandering through Shoreditch or shopping on Oxford Street, Londoners exude an effortless cool that mixes vintage, high-street, and designer pieces. But how can you achieve that signature London urban look? In this guide, we’ll explore the key elements of London street style and show you how to incorporate them into your wardrobe.
1. Embrace the Mix of High and Low Fashion
London street style is all about contrasts. You’ll often see people combining high-end designer pieces with affordable high-street items. It’s about creating a look that’s uniquely yours, without breaking the bank. Think of pairing a vintage leather jacket with a high-street brand’s turtleneck, or wearing designer shoes with thrift store jeans. The key is to mix and match to create a balanced, eclectic look.
- Tip: Visit London’s famous markets like Brick Lane or Portobello Road to score unique vintage finds that you can blend with your everyday outfits.
2. Layer Like a Pro
With London’s unpredictable weather, layering is not only practical but also a key part of achieving the perfect urban look. Londoners are experts at layering, creating dimension and depth in their outfits. Think oversized coats, chunky knits, and loose scarves—pieces that can be easily removed or added depending on the weather.
- Tip: Try layering a graphic tee under a denim jacket, topped with a trench coat. Finish with a statement scarf or beanie to add personality and texture.
3. Play with Patterns and Textures
London street style encourages risk-taking. Don’t shy away from mixing bold patterns or experimenting with unusual textures. From plaid trousers to velvet blazers, or from floral prints to animal motifs, London’s fashion scene thrives on creativity. The trick is to blend different patterns and textures without overwhelming the look. Balance a bold patterned piece with neutral basics to keep the outfit cohesive.
- Tip: A plaid skirt paired with a solid-coloured sweater and leather boots makes for a chic but edgy urban outfit.
4. The Power of Footwear
Footwear is crucial in pulling off the London street style look. Whether it’s chunky boots, classic Doc Martens, or sleek trainers, your shoes will often be the statement piece of your outfit. Footwear in London is practical yet stylish—perfect for navigating the city’s streets while looking effortlessly cool.
- Tip: Opt for black leather ankle boots or retro-inspired sneakers for a versatile and fashionable foundation to any outfit.
5. Accessorise Boldly
Londoners aren’t afraid to go big with accessories. From oversized sunglasses to bold hats, accessories are what take a basic outfit to the next level. Try adding a crossbody bag, a wide-brimmed hat, or layered necklaces to give your look some flair.
- Tip: A statement accessory like a wide belt or a patterned headscarf can turn a casual outfit into something truly memorable.
6. Confidence is Key
Perhaps the most important part of achieving London street style is confidence. Londoners wear what they love, without worrying about fitting into a particular trend or style. The city is known for its individuality, so don’t be afraid to express yourself and wear what makes you feel good. Whether it’s a bold colour, a quirky hat, or an unusual fabric, the best way to embody London street style is to own your look.
Final Thoughts
London street style is all about embracing your individuality while balancing high-fashion elements with practicality and creativity. Layering, bold accessories, and mixing patterns are key to achieving the perfect urban look. Most importantly, remember that confidence is at the heart of London’s fashion scene—wear what makes you feel empowered.
Now that you know the basics, it’s time to hit the streets of London and create your own unique street style.
