There are many fashion start-up programmes that provide free workshops and seminars but what new fashion labels often need the most is financial support, reliable production capabilities and direct consumer access via retail opportunities. We have been fortunate enough over the years to have collaborated with local councils on providing retail outlets for up and coming designers to showcase and sell their work. Previous FC shops have been situated in Bath, Bicester Village, Bluewater, Carnaby Street, Croydon Centrale, Barking and Marylebone.
The latest FC Designer Collective shop is now open in the London Borough of Islington. Situated on Fonthill Road, London N4, the shop houses a unique selection of fashion, accessories and gifts alongside fabrics, haberdashery and an onsite bespoke service.
This retail opportunity is the result of a unique collaboration between Islington Council, Mayor of London (Good Growth Fund) and Fashion-Enter Ltd / FashionCapital. Local designers and start-ups now have the chance for their items to be stocked and sold while offering the public products that are locally made and unique. The shop will also act as a creative hub with in-house making facilities, regular meet-ups, seminars and events.
If you are based in the borough of Islington and would like to be a part of this exciting and local initiative please contact: fcdesignercollective@fashion-enter.com for further information or to book a consultation.
FC Designer Collective, 113-115, Fonthill Road, London N4 3HH.
Shop opening days / hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 – 17:00
Complimenting the retail hub is an affordable workspace for creatives in the locality. The FC Designer Workspace opened its doors in September 2021 and will play a significant role in business and skills development for the local community by providing affordable studio space to rent alongside integrated services such as; tailored business support, mentoring, masterclasses, an on-site photography studio, networking events, exhibitions and the FC Designer Collective retail space to generate sales.
The aim is to bring a circular economy to the borough of Islington allowing local entrepreneurs to maximise their full potential and to grow further by having space to sell their product.
The benefits of both the workspace and the retail unit however go broader than this and aim to provide opportunities for local unemployed residents by creating sustained jobs as well as apprenticeship opportunities. Accredited Level 1 courses in stitching and pattern cutting are also available with genuine progression into either further training, employment or running a business. In addition, engagement with local schools and colleges to provide real industry career advice and practical workshops.
Here’s what two FC Designer Collective businesses have to say about the initiative:
“Having an affordable and truly local workspace will be hugely beneficial for my business. Because of my mental health I’m someone who spends most of my time at home so having more of a boundary between work life and home life, somewhere I feel safe and comfortable will be incredible.” – Mary Obaseki founder of Another Earthling.
“I believe FashionCapital has the business support services and expertise to guide and teach me the stages of developing a fashion line. The retail space and designer workspace are crucial for brand development.” – Tricia Blake founder of Diva Choice
FC Designer Workspace, Studios 1 – 12, 9 Durham Road, London N7 7FB.
fcdesignerworkspace@fashion-enter.com
FashionCapital
Unit 4 Crusader Estate
167 Hermitage Road
N4 1LZ
Directions: Nearest tube is Manor House on the Piccadilly Line. Please use exit 7, Green Lanes (North East Side). Walk time is approx 7 minutes from the tube. Alternatively, the nearest overground is Haringey Green Lanes. The 29 bus will also take you to Green Lanes. Car parking facilities are available on request
