Boutique in my backyard

How do you judge the appeal of a city? When and how does a location ‘arrive’ as an internationally-recognised destination?

Vx in Kings Cross, London

Some people will hold a city up against an arts and culture criteria. It becomes relevant when it can be seen as a cultural hub. Natural attractions are a draw for many others. There is nothing like a stunning mountain range or miles of golden beaches nearby to pull the punters in. History is often used as a measuring device when considering the worth of a city. A long list of ancient curiosities will usually drive the worth of a city sky high.

But I have my own way to determine how world-class a city is… does it have a vegan boutique? Well, you can add London to the list of ‘made it’ cities based on the existence of the wholly-vegan store known as Vx.

Vx (pronounced vee cross) is a boutique that will please consumers wishing to spend their money in a cruelty-free establishment. The store boasts a diverse range of stock including shoes, unique t-shirt designs, lifestyle/cooking books, bags, belts and (most importantly to a FGV) food.

Vegan rolo cake by Accidentally Vegan

The highlight of a visit to Vx has to be the food. Offerings are sourced from Ms. Cupcake and Accidentally Vegan, with a decent supply of goodies always on display.

During a recent visit I devoured a slice of vegan rolo cake created by Accidentally, washed down with a milkshake made on site using Sweetbird syrups. Vx has a cosy downstairs dining area, perfect for chilling out and sharing vegan gossip.

Vegan shoes, clothing & accessories at Vx

Vx doesn’t limit itself to clothing and ready-to-eat cakes and sandwiches. The store also carries a diverse range of packaged and chilled vegan goods. Choose from biscuits, jerky, sweets, vitamins, jelly crystals and more.

Vegan snacks at Vx

The range of products on offer is extremely eclectic and I’m not sure how they decide what to stock. Perhaps they order in their own favourite treats. Whatever way it happens, vegans will be pleased to browse and buy from the cruelty-free selection.

The store is also home to the Secret Society of Vegans brand. Logos and designs bearing these words are featured on t-shirts, pins, bags and other items. The owner of the Vx sold earlier forms of these designs at a market stall prior to the 2010 opening of the Kings Cross boutique.

The SSOV range is incredibly popular. I have personally seen people sporting the t-shirts in cities across the UK, US and Australia.

When in London, head on in to Vx and support a vegan boutique. In conjunction with other vegan traders such as Ms. Cupcake, this business is positioning London as a must-see city for compassionate travelers.

Follow Secret Society of Vegans and Vx on Twitter.

Vx: 73 Caledonian Road, London N1 9BT Telephone: 020 7833 2315