Female-founded businesses celebrated this International Women’s Day
From fashion and floristry to bras and baking, we showcase seven inspirational female-led businesses this International Women’s Day, that call Islington Square home. Read here about their vision and values before popping in store for more.
Give Your Best is London’s first, ‘pay-it-forward’, store which aims to tackle clothing poverty while reducing fashion waste. Founded in 2020 by Sol Escobar, it offers a platform where people can donate their pre-loved clothes, which are then distributed for free to those in need. Since opening its first physical store at Islington Square in June 2024 the initiative has supported more than 300 women and children by distributing nearly £20,000 worth of clothing.
The Pantry Underwear specialises in underwear, swimwear and sleepwear. Founded in 2016 by Eloise Rigby, the store takes a modern approach to bra fitting, focusing on customer education and comfort. It offers free and relaxed in-store bra fittings, as well as virtual fittings for those who prefer to shop from home.
The Wearer is an independent jewellery boutique that has been a part of Islington's community since 2015. Founded by Rachel Jackson, who transitioned from a fashion buying career to pursue her passion for unique jewellery, the boutique offers a curated selection of contemporary pieces from independent London and UK designers.
The Rooms is an artisan and botanical florist founded by Bernadette Creagh. She shares her passion for botanicals by offering workshops and private tuition for budding florists. The store offers a selection of pre-made bouquets, bespoke bouquets and botanical plants.
Percy Langley is a stylish fashion store offering a unique collection of contemporary British pieces, with a focus on ethical production and sustainable materials. Founded by Georgina Whall and Poppy Sherbrooke in 2020, Percy Langley also hosts styling masterclasses to help customers refine their personal style.
Named after the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, Wild Swans describes the range of designers as well as the customers; beautiful, strong and graceful with a bit of an edge. Here you will find Scandinavian fashion, homeware and beauty curated by founder Caroline van Luthje, mixing up established designers with new ones exclusive to Wild Swans.
Selv Roastery founder and single mum Selver Avsar offers locally roasted, high-quality coffee beans and freshly baked goods.
*** Urban Food Fest is joining up with Women On Our Way to host a range of female business traders at Islington Square's weekly market on March 8 from 11am-5pm.
