Coal Drops Yard is the home of independent style at King’s Cross. Here we’ve rounded up some of our favourite menswear destinations in Coal Drops Yard, including brands such as Paul Smith, Universal Works and Outsiders Store. Spanning from fashion and accessories to homeware and eyewear, you’re guaranteed to discover something extraordinary.
Form & Thread
Form&Thread is an independent, luxury menswear line that has grown and grown in popularity since 2015, due to its ethically produced, easily-wearable clothes.
Made with quality materials from mills and factories that share the brand’s ethos, there’s a modest price tag for the high-level of fabric, cut and finish that defines the brand’s signature look. All of their items represent the true cost of the garment, without inflated mark-ups to account for sales tricks or discounts, middlemen or distribution. It is all about keeping things simple.
Paul Smith
Paul Smith is the iconic British fashion brand, renowned for its creative aesthetic, which combines tradition and modernity. At the Coal Drops Yard shop discover clothes, shoes, and accessories, alongside artwork, special design collaborations and unique objects sourced from around the world. Paul Smith designs are eclectic, with references drawn from art, music, and everyday life.
Also be sure to check out Paul’s Cycling Shop, stocking an exclusive selection of cycling jerseys, tools, bike accessories, limited-edition helmets and more.
Universal Works
After 30 years of working in the fashion industry, David Keyte founded modern menswear brand Universal Works in 2009, designing simple, classic menswear from his kitchen table. Inspired by a bygone era of well-dressed working men and infused with the UK’s musical and sporting subcultures, Universal Works is a very British, thoroughly modern brand.
Discover everything from wide-legged trousers, tailored shorts and workwear jackets, to elegant knits, with classic base tones complemented by colourful patterns and block prints, all cut in an elegant, contemporary style, and made from high-quality fabrics. Accessories are also available, from underwear and socks to hats and bags.
Cubitts
Cubitts are an independent British eyewear specialist, making made-to-measure frames by hand. Founded in King’s Cross, London, in 2013, their often graphic designs are loved the world over. They apply modernist design principles to their creations, whilst allowing for your unique character to shine through. Their enduring spectacle styles will stand the test of time, encouraging you to buy rarely and repair when required.
They also offer thorough, relaxed eye examinations, with made-to-measure and bespoke services. And feel free to drop in for a quick polish and adjustment, on Cubitts, to ensure they once again fit perfectly.
Blackhorse Lane Atelier
Founded in 2016 by Bilgehan “Han” Ates, Blackhorse Lane Atelier makes premium selvedge and raw organic denim for men and women within a repurposed 1920s factory in East London.
The brand has a determined focus on quality, community and sustainability. Environmental impact is considered in all their decisions and their specialist craft-makers are recruited locally and offered a share of ownership. Blackhorse Lane Atelier believes its denim design execution can’t be matched anywhere else in the world.
Outsiders Store
The Outsiders Store at Coal Drops Yard is your one-stop shop for everything you’ll need for your next adventure. If you love the outdoors, then look no further. Discover a thoughtfully curated offering of clothing from independent, specialist brands alongside equipment from tents and sleeping bags to coolers and camp stoves.
Founded in 2017, in the north west of England, Outsiders Store was born of the realisation that today’s modern adventurers want fewer but better products to take with them on their journeys. The considered collection stocks authentic gear and gadgets from brands who understand that people want style as well as function for their outdoor equipment.
Ace & Tate
Dutch brand Ace & Tate creates stylish eyewear with a focus on affordability. They don’t just design super stylish frames, they work with some of the world’s best suppliers to ensure every material used in the frames, from the acetate to the metal, is the best it can possibly be. The company’s mission is to be a driver of positive change within the industry, proving that sustainability, style and affordability are entirely compatible.
In store customers can take advantage of free eye tests and same-day service, while online there’s a prescription checker and ‘Virtual Try On’ app.
Beyond Retro
Britain’s most celebrated retro store is known for an eclectic mix of vintage gear handpicked by fashion experts. Prices reflect the second hand nature of the clothes rather than the quality, which is often far superior to what you’ll find on the high street.
Visit the Coal Drops store for a huge selection of one-off vintage pieces, staple pieces like jeans and denim jackets, and classic accessories.
Boutique by Shelter
This flagship boutique isn’t your average charity shop. Inside, you’ll find a handpicked edit of vintage, designer and quality high-street clothing for remarkable prices, and every penny goes directly to the charity. Every year, Shelter helps millions of people struggling with bad housing and homelessness. The income generated from the Boutique by Shelter store helps those in need to access vital Shelter services.
The store also accepts donations. So, if you have a few high-quality pieces you no longer use or wear, please bring them along. Visit Boutique by Shelter at Coal Drops Yard to shop sustainably and in support of a great cause.
Wolf & Badger
Wolf & Badger is a concept store stocking the best in fashion, beauty and lifestyle collections from the coolest independent designers. They have done the hard work for you, by curating a supremely well-edited selection of brands for you to choose from.
Spread across three floors, you will find everything from activewear and sunglasses to umbrellas and even pocket squares. So get browsing!
Kiosk N1C
Kiosk N1C began its life as a magazine about King’s Cross, before becoming a living, breathing, physical part of the area. It is a hub of activity and creativity, with Lower Stable Street outside, hosting an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, life drawing classes and jazz festivals. They’ve got it going on, so be prepared to be inspired.
Expect to find a special edit of pieces from emerging fashion and lifestyle brands, as well as independent books and magazines too. KIOSK’s capsule collection has a great selection of basics, including blank tees by Heavyweight Collections, socks and accessories from RoToTo and indigo dyed homeware and clothing from Buaisou.
