Words and styling by Kate Martin
Photography by Alex Chen
Hair and makeup by Georgia Calderbank
Modelled by Sophie Wickham, Georgia Calderbank and Kate Martin


Whilst walking through Hanbury street from Aldgate East underground I found an intriguing alleyway painted with murals of graffiti so not a single brick could be seen. A perfect location for a photo shoot I decided upon three different styles that suited the models as well as encaptured the whole essence of E1, Hanbury Street.

Look one

Sophie has a natural edge to her that I was desperate to play on with this shoot. Clashing prints and colours can never go wrong when travelling through Brick Lane so I had Sophie wear fitted tartan trousers with a loose mixed knit jumper all tied together with a Vintage denim jacket. For accessories, white Dr Martens and an American Apparel felt hat to complete her soft rock look.

Look 2

For Georgia's look I decided I wanted to incorporate a typical London look with a classic edge. Vintage Levi's and a crisp white blouse never fail to bring out Georgia's natural tailored and soft look. Tied all together with a classic tartan coat and Underground Creepers, this styled look just shouts out London.

Look 3

For my look I was inspired by the global diversity in Hanbury Street and the innocent Scandinavian appeal. Midi length skirts with cable knit tights and Dr Martens are the essentials to this look as it creates a pure and charming look. The oversized coat just gives this outfit a sense of nature and environment with the green hues contrasting the red wine coloured tights.

Words by Kate Martin
Photography By Alex Chen

Google "Hanbury Street" and you would be put off by the sharp words of "MURDER" and "JACK THE RIPPER" complimented with photos of the previous murder town. When, in actual fact, Hanbury street, Shoreditch is the exact opposite of dead with every corner thriving with an abundance of people. The difference between the regulars and first comers was obvious from the diverse paces that people walk past you with bagels in one hand and camera in the other. The street is a straight line filled to the brim with vintage/thrift stores and bespoke bakeries with the occasional convenience store weaved in between. You couldn't be more wrong if you thought that this was the main strip of shops when you turn the corner down an alley way and open up a whole new opportunity of vintage inspiration. The walls are plastered with beautiful graffiti, constantly changing but consistently amazing. The style of the people around reflects this diverse love for life and individuality, everyone has a different spark about them that is important to their nature. 

Whilst the style is very true to vintage I couldn't help but notice to the increasing trend of incorporating some modern day brands into their eclectic mix of global finds. One of my favourite looks was a girl who wore an all-grey and green natural palette outfit with loose fits and an effortless look. When asked to take her picture she rushed to put on her beanie hat as if her look wasn't complete without it - she knew what best suited her. I was surprised to see that two girls from Paris perfectly nailed the "London" look as it were, with the oxymoron of chunky coats and scarves paired with a pair of sunglasses delicately placed on their head. Every single person I spoke to on my day visit wasn't hesitant to give me any answers or a minute of their time. I think it's true to say that their is never a dull moment around Hanbury street and I will definitely be spending more time up there in the near future.