Justin Deakin has been in the industry designing shoes for 27 years and has a huge passion for craftsmanship and the process of good design. His designs ensure a mix of tradition and modern styling with individual imaginative touches.
Justin began putting his mark on the industry with the success of his Stride Sneakers, and since has continued to embark on a journey to create a collection of luxury, handmade shoes. His first store opened on Hanbury Street, East London in 2011 and is now home to his boutique shoe brand ‘Justin Deakin’.
Justin is a strong believer in quality and personal style and that is reflected in his designs. He’s spent decades building good relationships with English and Italian suppliers, and so from the soles, to the leather, to the silk, his shoes and boots portray the best of British and Italy.
Favourite neighbourhood:
My favourite has to be Shoreditch, East London. I opened the Justin Deakin store here in Hanbury Street six years ago now and love the community of the people I’ve met here.
Favourite place for brunch:
I love Shoreditch House, it’s the ideal place for a late morning bite to eat after a relaxing swim. (Plus, you don’t feel as bad indulging after you’ve completed a few lengths!)
Best coffee in London:
Nude have their flagship store just a few stops down from the Justin Deakin shop and they do the best coffee for me. I’m often popping in there to grab a takeaway coffee before heading back to the shop.
Favourite gallery or museum:
Oooo, The British Design Museum has to have my heart. I was one of three shoe designers to have my designs showcased there so the museum holds a lot of cool memories for me.
Tell us a secret:
Secrets! Let’s think..OK, for readers who are new to East London, Peter’s jerk chicken and healthy juices are THE best. He’s on lower end of Hanbury Street, definitely worth a visit. He’s a hidden treasure.
Favourite place to shop:
A department store that delivers on so many levels, Selfridges. They also now stock The Highpads too which is a collaboration between Justin Deakin + A Child of the Jago. It’s cool to see our new project on the shelves there.
Favourite place to find inspiration:
I find it in lots of places but Columbia Road Flower Market is one my key London destinations for inspiration. It’s a great place to visit on a Sunday and simply just watch.
Best London destination for a date:
Ah, the bar in Claridges! We used to spend a lot of time in there when we were younger.
Favourite park:
I enjoy strolling around Hyde park. It’s the place I feel most calm.
Favourite food market:
Most days a grab my lunch from Spitalfields Market as there’s just so much choice. I recommend trying out the oysters at Wright Brothers, they’re amazing.
Your sanctuary in the city:
Well, the Justin Deakin shop is where I spend most of my time and it has become my little sanctuary over the years. I often keep the door of the shop open so I can hear the hustle + bustle of the East London streets but still feel content inside the boutique shop I’ve created.
What inspires you?
Oh, it’s got to be People – cheesy but true.
This season I’m loving:
Always Autumn. It’s the best season for fashion and gives everyone the opportunity to layer up and I love that, it’s definitely the best season for boots and oversized coats.
You can find out more about Justin Deakin and shop his designs over at www.justindeakin.com