The best way to get to know Helsinki and its shops is simply to go out for a walk. You may be surprised by everything the city has to offer, and you are sure to discover some really interesting shops along the way. The best part is that the city is evolving all the time, and more and more shops specialising in all kinds of products are appearing.
Beamhill & Beam
These two affiliated shops offer its customers a total shopping experience. They have a great atmosphere, friendly staff and a carefully selected but also wide selection of clothing – for example, Beamhill sells fashion by the likes of Acne Studios, Ganni and Eytys, while Beam has Our Legacy, Maison Margiela and Dries van Noten!
Beamhill, Yliopistonkatu 5
Beam, Erottajankatu 15-17
Beyond
This skateboarding shop is situated on a busy street, but the atmosphere inside is cool and relaxed. Beyond offers a wide selection, everything from footwear to skateboards, including cool brands such as Brain Dead, Polar Skate, Pop Trading and Palace!
Kaisaniemenkatu 4
Partioaitta
Even though it’s easy to get carried away with city life, sometimes you just long for the peace of nature – and luckily Helsinki offers that as well! Partioaitta is an outdoors shop that sells everything you could possibly need. The staff is really professional and helpful, so you can ask them about all the different materials if you’re not familiar with outdoor apparel. Partioaitta sells brands such as Arc'teryx , Hoka, Rab, Formal Friday and Merrel!
Yrjönkatu 36
UFF City Centre
Locals in Helsinki have a very unique and person dress sense, everything from early-2000s throwback aesthetics to futuristic and minimalist fashion. UFF is the perfect place for making special second-hand finds in clothes and accessories. It’s hard not to be inspired by the colourful racks, and you can spend hours just trying out different looks or planning an outfit for your next party.
Fredrikinkatu 36
Helsinki also has numerous underground brands that not everyone knows about but that have become real megatrends among youth. Many of these brands combine creativity with a desire to create communities that everyone can connect with. There is a lot of expertise out there, with new brands popping up all the time. Among those that have already made a name for themselves include the following.
Vitun Leija
Created by Diarra Bakar, this brand exudes a sense of community and fresh ideas. The easily recognisable clothes feature the name of the brand in big letters, for example on t-shirts, sweatpants and hats. You can follow the brand and shop here: @vitunleija
VAIN - Vain is all about love.
Despite being a young brand, VAIN has had dedicated followers for years, and its fashion appeals to many. The collection includes premium leather products and accessories, everything from jewellery to drinking bottles and cardholders. You can follow the brand and shop here: @VAIN_official
Shuwsu
Shuwsu offers splendid handmade fashion, from t-shirts to jackets and trousers to bags. The quality of work is truly impressive, and the aesthetics combine military-style materials with Japanese lines. You can follow the brand and shop here: @shuwsu_
Fabri Platform
Fabri Platform is a Helsinki-based online platform that brings smaller brands to the attention of wider audiences and makes it easy to purchase fashion by local designers. Fabri also organises live happenings featuring numerous small brands under the same roof. Fabri Platform sells clothing and accessories, as well as art. You can sign up for its events on its social media channels. You can follow the brand and shop here: @fabriplatform
In Helsinki, you can really see how fashion and culture are living and evolving together with the city. The best way to find your own favourites, from fashion to art and nature to restaurants, is to roam around and explore freely. The path you set out on is the same one you may find yourself on for years to come!