Welcome to Olive Road London, an independent vintage fabric shop founded and run by me, Sarah Richards. Olive Road London is named after the street my Grandparents lived on for 60 years, a small house with many stories to tell. Watch the video to find out why I am passionate about reusing these beautiful fabrics and saving them from adding to the textile waste issue. Find more details on my values and transparency here.
Buying vintage is a fun way to recycle, giving a new lease of life to a unique piece of fabric. I source fabrics from the 1950’s to 1990’s, Individually selecting each piece for it’s quality and style. I refresh each fabric using environmentally friendly cleaning products. Each piece is unique and often only 1 to 2 metres in length giving you the chance to create an individual garment, accessory or soft furnishings that is also sustainable.
I’m Sarah Richards, I live in Bow, East London and I’ve been sewing since I can remember. I love selecting fabrics with bright colours and beautiful textures. Mid-century colours and graphics are my favourite era. I studied Fashion Design for four years at the London College of Fashion then onto a career working in the Fashion Retail industry as a Junior Buyer and Exec Assistant.
After working in the Fashion Retail industry for 10 years, I am passionate about reducing the effects of fast fashion and often write about sustainable fashion on my blog. I gained a certificate for a Fashion Revolution course. It is designed to encourage us as customers to ask more questions of our high street brands. I often take part in events such as Festival of Sustainable Fashion, repair cafes and Craftivist workshops. Come and say hello at one of these events or pop-ups, more info on my Instagram page and my blog.
I enjoy sharing my sewing skills with others. My friend Eleanor and I run regular workshops around London called Fast Fashion Therapy. We encourage people to repair and refashion their clothes rather than them being thrown away. After working in the Fashion Industry I trained to be Homeopath. I’m fascinated by the mindfulness and healing that takes place when we sew. We enjoy two hours of time dedicated to sewing, chat, laugh and make new friends.
I’d love to hear from you, please get in touch on sarah@oliveroad.london
Olive Road London Limited, London E3 5SB