LNCC

One part avant-garde fashion oasis, one part night club, one part rare-edition library, and one part vinyl shop. We know. It sounds too weird to be true. But lucky for us, the magical, freaky, and downright fascinating combination comes to life at LN-CC. It’s been coined “the coolest concept store in the world,” and we couldn’t agree more.

           

Founded in 2010, LN-CC (short for Late Night Chameleon Café) describes itself as a “progressive retail concept”, which basically means they sell everything that's on the cutting-edge of cool in an evolving platform space that's even cooler. While they have the usual contenders like Gucci, Prada, and Bottega Veneta on deck, their selection of under-the-radar streetwear designers and up-and-coming sustainable labels is what makes this place a thrill to visit.

Since predictability isn't exactly LN-CC's thing, it comes as no surprise that their store is located in an alleyway off Dalston’s Shacklewell Lane, unadorned and quite frankly, difficult to find. In fact, this unsigned entrance is nearly impossible to gain access to, even if you do manage to find it, since they operate on an appointment-only basis. Le sigh. But don't be deterred, the experience is worth the prep work.

Once you make it inside, wander through the winding maze of metallic-sneaker filled tunnels, sweatshirt stuffed nooks and crannies, and endless voids of classic vinyl. Their octagonal-themed architecture, trippy lighting and displays, and killer sound system somehow achieve the impossible - making you forget that you’re shopping for expensive goods in a sketchy basement. We don’t put it lightly when we say that LN-CC is one of the best boutiques we’ve ever come across. Don’t ask questions, it’s a must see.

           

Product photos courtesy of LN-CC.