Shopping
It may not have the designer big names of London or the characteristic kilts of Glasgow, but when it comes to shopping, Brighton rocks! Boutique chic is the name of the game in this town with the popular, one-off establishments in the Lanes selling everything from Aromatherapy Oils to Zoot suits and everything in between.
Second-hand and retro clothing shops seem to breed in Brighton, often specializing in specific eras or decades. As the spiritual headquarters of the Mod scene, Sixties chic is arguably the most popular and well represented choice.
If you’re on a quest for anything queer, St. James’s Street has a number of establishments that will allow you to check off your shopping list. Cardome, Clone Zone and Out! Brighton not only have tons of gay-geared merchandise, they’re also great places to pick up the local gay and lesbian newspapers and magazines.
Cardome
Brighton’s oldest established gay shop, Cardome has been providing pink-hued greeting cards, gifts, DVDs and magazines to the local community for the past 20 years. 47A St. James’s Street, BN2. Tel: +44 1273 692 916.
Clone Zone
Safe-sex supplies, DVDs, fetish wear and magazine galore. 32 St. James’s Street, BN2. Tel: +44 1273 626 442.
Jump the Gun
Authentic Mod-style clothing for the man who considers a Lambretta a fashion statement. The sharp sixties-inspired suits start at £200. 36 Gardner Street, BN1. Tel: +44 1273 626 777.
The Olde Rock Shop
All the souvenir rock candy, snow-globes, postcards and fridge magnets you might need to remember your British seaside experience. West Pier, Kingsway, opposite Regency Square, BN1.
Out! Brighton
Brighton’s principle gay and lesbian bookshop. 4 & 7 Dorset Street, BN2. Tel: +44 1273 623 356.
The Sunday Market
Behind Brighton Station every Sunday from 6am-12pm.
Brighton’s biggest weekly garage sale. You’ll have to do a lot of digging to separate out the duds… But when you find something you like, it’s like winning the lottery! Everything from old eight-track tapes to Victorian dolls can be found. The serious shoppers arrive by 7am.