What is House of Ski in King’s Cross?

What is House of Ski?

It’s an alpine-themed retro skiwear pop-up that’s just landed in the heart of King’s Cross. Expect an avalanche of original 70s and 80s pieces, including boldly coloured ski jackets, vintage goggles, snug all-in-onesies, sporty puffers, knits and moon boots. The chalet-inspired space will be replenished regularly with new vintage clobber throughout its winter 2023 existence, too.

Who is behind it?

House of Ski is a collaboration between designer second-hand emporium Boutique by Shelter and Beyond Retro, the sustainably sourced garments and accessories people, who always have hundreds of salvaged pieces for sale including plenty of classic skiwear. Meanwhile Great British Sewing Bee winner, Annie Phillips @madeby_annie, has curated collections of some of her finds to inspire shoppers with her essential looks edits – perfect for the slopes, or indeed for cheering up the greyer moments of winter here in London.

Why are they doing it?

As well as generating vital funds to tackle homelessness, Shelter’s store full of upcycled and preloved clothes is helping make fashion shopping more sustainable, just like Beyond Retro’s handpicked rails do, too. With the eco agenda continuing to have a positive impact on the practices of high street retailers and the choices of consumers, a retro ski shop ticks all the boxes, let alone during the cost of living crisis, offering new homes to designer items from as little as £7.

What’s the verdict?

We like how King’s Cross is navigating the post-Covid retail terrain, keeping their offering as unique and desirable as possible, while also making it more accessible, sustainable and community-minded. Not all of us will be able to slope off to the Alps for snow sports days and après ski nights this winter, but with temperatures plummeting again, we can all enjoy some cosy castoff delights right now. 

When and where?

Find House of Ski at Coal Drops Yard every day until the end of February. Here’s a bit more info.