Nestled in one of London’s most exclusive and fashionable shopping districts, a stone’s throw away from Harrods, and in between Harvey Nichols and Sloane Square, lies Sloane Street – maybe one of London’s most influential shopping streets. Together with Sloane Square, Sloane Street gave birth to the term Sloane Ranger, referring to fashionable, upper class women who stalk the streets armed with designer bags and on a look out for an outfit for their next high society function. The Sloane Rangers were at their height in the ‘80s, and even had their own ‘Official Sloane Ranger Handbook’. Princess Diana was an archetypal Sloane Ranger, and Catherine could be considered an honorary member of the fashion tribe – although the term isn’t used as much now. Other notable Sloanes include Sienna Miller, Jemima Khan, and the famous fashion stylists Trinny and Susannah.
Sloane territory isn’t just limited to Sloane Street and Sloane Square, but extends throughout Kensington, Fulham and Chelsea. The Sloane Style, however, can be translated to the US preppy style (with brands like J.Crew and Kate Spade located on Sloane Square), and although the term ‘Sloane’ seems a bit dated now, the style is still very much alive – just translated for a new era of fashion.
Sloane Street has two distinct shopping areas. Upper Sloane is closer to Knightsbridge, and features flagship stores for Salvatore Ferragamo, as well as Jimmy Choo, Boodles, Dolcce & Gabbana, Missoni, Joseph, Gina, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Miu Miu, Versace, Bvlgari, Dior, Tods, Chanel, Prada, and scores more! Many of these aren’t Kate brands, but more traditionally couture and super high luxury fashion, but I’d love to see her wearing some of their products (especially Chanel, Miu Miu and Ferragamo)!
Once you get parallel to the start of Cadogan Place, the shops dry up until you reach the end of the Place (parallel with Cadogan Gate). Then, as you approach Sloane Square, the second large cluster of fantastic brands continues – including Pink, Paule Ka, Chloe, Anya Hindmarch, Jo Malone, Hackett and Pringle.
Don’t forget to branch off down to Ellis Street for French Sole, Lulu Guinness, and hat designer Gabriela Ligenza!
Just before you get to the shopping delights of Sloane Square itself, you’ll reach Cartier and Tiffany’s – not a bad way to finish a shopping trip!
You can reach Sloane Street via the London Underground, through the Knightsbridge or Sloane Street stations.
[…] for luxuries (or tourist baubles) in Harvey Nichols and Harrods might find their interest piqued by Sloane Street, but it’s a fair walk from the shopping area at the top of the street to Sloane Square, and […]