Exploring Collectors & Independents In Wales | Knights Vintage & Canbrensis | The Hoxton Trend

Exploring Cardiff: A Dive into Independent Shops and Collector Culture

In our recent video, Hoxton took a trip to Cardiff to meet up with a few passionate collectors and independents, diving deep into the vibrant subcultures that thrive in the city. A big shoutout goes to Tony Rivers, an avid clothing historian, collector, and the author of the Stone Island book, Magentic, for helping make this visit possible.

One of the highlights of our Cardiff exploration was a visit to the historic Cardiff Market, where we met with Jake Knight, the visionary behind Knights Vintage. Cardiff Indoor Market is a cultural landmark, and within its walls, Knights Vintage stands out as a treasure trove of unique fashion finds. Founded by Jake Knight, this store has become a cornerstone of Cardiff’s vintage clothing scene, offering an eclectic mix of rare football shirts, and one-of-a-kind high-end fashion items from iconic brands like Ralph Lauren.

Jake’s passion for fashion has been a constant in his life. As a kid, his interests in football, skateboarding, and music were all intertwined with his love for clothing. “Fashion is integral to all three of those things,” Jake explains, highlighting how his early passions laid the foundation for what would become Knights Vintage.

The idea for Knights Vintage, often referred to as KV, was sparked during a trip to Thailand. While exploring the northern region of the country, Jake stumbled upon a vintage clothing store that ignited his imagination. Inspired by the unique finds, he decided to bring these treasures back to Cardiff, establishing himself as a key figure in the city’s vintage clothing scene.

By November 2020, Jake had opened his shop in Cardiff Market, solidifying Knights Vintage as a go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts. His store is not just a place to shop, but a reflection of Cardiff’s diverse and dynamic culture, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to discover something truly special.

Meeting More of Cardiff’s Independents

During our Cardiff adventure, we also had the pleasure of meeting with The Brogue Trader, where we got a brief but insightful history of their renowned store. Known for its impeccable craftsmanship and dedication to quality, The Brogue Trader has become a staple in Cardiff, offering a curated selection of premium footwear that combines classic styles with contemporary touches. Their passion for excellence and attention to detail has made them a go-to destination for those seeking timeless elegance in their footwear.

Our journey didn’t end there. We were fortunate to sit down with Iohan, the talented designer and owner behind the brand Canbrensis. Iohan shared the fascinating history of his brand, which draws deep inspiration from Welsh heritage. Canbrensis is more than just a clothing brand; it’s a celebration of Wales’ rich culture and history. Iohan’s designs are infused with elements that pay homage to his homeland, blending traditional influences with modern aesthetics to create pieces that are both meaningful and stylish.

Through our conversations with these passionate individuals, we gained a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Cardiff’s independent fashion scene. From vintage treasures at Knights Vintage to the timeless craftsmanship of The Brogue Trader, and the culturally inspired designs of Canbrensis, Cardiff is a city that thrives on creativity and a deep connection to its roots.

 

Watch Part 1 of our Collectors and Independents Series Below

In the first episode of our Cardiff adventure, we had the privilege of meeting with some passionate Stone Island and CP Company collectors who opened up their treasure troves to share some of their most prized possessions. These collectors, true enthusiasts of the iconic brands, gave us an exclusive look at their rare and highly coveted pieces, each with its own unique story. 

From limited-edition jackets to vintage classics, their collections are a testament to the enduring appeal and innovative design that Stone Island and CP Company are known for. Their dedication to preserving and celebrating these brands added a rich layer of insight to our video, showcasing not just the items themselves, but the deep personal connections and history behind them.