Moscow is home to a thriving creative scene, and the city’s concept stores offer a perfect blend of fashion, art, design, and lifestyle. These stores focus on offering unique, one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find in typical shopping malls. Whether you’re looking for vintage fashion, cutting-edge art, or exclusive souvenirs, Moscow’s concept stores provide an exciting shopping experience. Here’s a guide to the best concept stores in Moscow where you can find distinctive and original items.
1. GUM (State Department Store)
Why Visit:
Located on Red Square, GUM is one of Moscow’s most iconic shopping destinations, blending luxury shopping with historical significance. The GUM department store has undergone a significant transformation, evolving into a hub for unique concept stores, offering an eclectic mix of fashion, lifestyle products, and artisanal goods.
What to Find:
- Limited Edition Fashion: You’ll find a selection of high-end, Russian designer boutiques that offer exclusive collections.
- Handmade and Artisanal Goods: From handcrafted jewelry to locally designed furniture, GUM showcases various independent and local artisans.
- Unique Russian Souvenirs: The stores in GUM offer one-of-a-kind Russian souvenirs, including traditional crafts, paintings, and decorative items.
Location:
- GUM is located at Red Square, making it easy to access after a visit to the Kremlin or Saint Basil’s Cathedral.
2. Tsvetnoy Central Market
Why Visit:
Tsvetnoy Central Market is a trendy and stylish concept store located in the center of Moscow. Known for its avant-garde fashion, lifestyle products, and modern design, Tsvetnoy offers a more contemporary and creative approach to retail.
What to Find:
- High-End Fashion: Tsvetnoy features Russian designers, as well as international fashion brands and exclusive collections.
- Artisanal and Unique Home Décor: The home section showcases a variety of one-of-a-kind items such as furniture, art, and decorative accessories.
- Gourmet Food: On the lower level, you’ll find a gourmet food market with artisan cheeses, specialty teas, and other local delicacies.
Location:
- Tsvetnoy Central Market is located at Tsvetnoy Boulevard, within easy reach of the Kremlin and Red Square.
3. Garage Museum of Contemporary Art Shop
Why Visit:
Located in Gorky Park, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art is home to an impressive collection of modern art, and its concept store is no different. It’s an ideal place for those looking to find unique art pieces, art books, and limited edition items related to contemporary culture.
What to Find:
- Art Prints: The Garage Shop offers exclusive prints, art books, and unique art pieces from emerging Russian and international artists.
- Design and Lifestyle: Expect to find limited edition design goods, such as eco-friendly products, homeware, and creative stationary.
- Collaborations: The store often features collaborations between artists and designers, making it a fantastic spot to find one-off items.
Location:
- The Garage Museum is located in Gorky Park, which is a great place to visit for art lovers. The shop is located on the museum premises, easily accessible via public transport or walking.
4. Detsky Mir (Children’s World)
Why Visit:
While Detsky Mir is a well-known department store for children’s items, it’s also a concept store in its own right, offering one-of-a-kind items for both kids and adults. The store is known for its innovative and unique products that you won’t find elsewhere.
What to Find:
- Exclusive Toys: Detsky Mir offers exclusive toys and educational products that are designed to be both fun and educational.
- Design Objects for Kids: The store features creative furniture, clothing, and decor for children, designed by Russian and international artists.
- Limited Edition Lifestyle Goods: In addition to its children’s section, Detsky Mir also offers limited edition goods such as fashionable accessories and modern home décor.
Location:
- Detsky Mir is located at Lubyanka Square, near the Kremlin and Red Square, making it a convenient stop while exploring Moscow.
5. Vkusvill Concept Store
Why Visit:
Vkusvill is a concept store that focuses on healthy, sustainable, and locally sourced products. It’s ideal for those looking for unique and eco-conscious lifestyle products in addition to food and beverages.
What to Find:
- Healthy Food: From organic produce to gourmet items, Vkusvill offers a wide variety of organic and locally sourced food products.
- Sustainable Lifestyle Goods: The store focuses on eco-friendly products, including reusable bags, organic cosmetics, and natural cleaning products.
- Exclusive Regional Goods: Discover regional delicacies, handcrafted items, and traditional Russian products that are unique to various parts of Russia.
Location:
- Vkusvill stores can be found in various locations around Moscow, but the main concept store is located in the city center, close to major shopping areas.
6. Buro 24/7 Concept Store
Why Visit:
Buro 24/7 is a Russian luxury and fashion concept store that combines high-end fashion with art, design, and lifestyle products. It’s perfect for those seeking exclusive and trendy items that blend Russian and global influences.
What to Find:
- Designer Fashion: Buro 24/7 offers a curated selection of exclusive fashion pieces by both Russian and international designers.
- Limited Edition Art and Design: The store has a variety of art prints, unique decor items, and modern design goods.
- Gifts and Accessories: For those seeking something unique, there are many luxurious gifts and statement accessories to choose from.
Location:
- Buro 24/7 is located in the city center, not far from Tsvetnoy Central Market and other major landmarks.
7. Kuznetsky Most Street
Why Visit:
Kuznetsky Most Street is one of Moscow’s best areas for exploring independent shops and concept stores that showcase local talent. This area is home to several boutiques offering one-of-a-kind items that represent Moscow’s creative spirit.
What to Find:
- Artistic Jewelry: Small independent boutiques on Kuznetsky Most offer handcrafted jewelry and unique designs.
- Russian Fashion: You can find avant-garde Russian fashion at a range of boutiques that showcase up-and-coming designers.
- Handmade Goods: Several stores along the street sell handmade crafts, decor, and vintage items.
Location:
- Kuznetsky Most Street is located in downtown Moscow, easily accessible by metro or on foot.
8. Winzavod Art Center
Why Visit:
Winzavod is a creative hub and art center in Moscow, home to galleries, design studios, and some fantastic concept stores. It’s a great spot for those looking for artistic items, limited edition products, and creative works.
What to Find:
- Art and Design: Visit the galleries for unique art pieces and innovative design products created by local artists.
- Fashion and Accessories: Winzavod also hosts a number of fashion boutiques that offer exclusive clothing, accessories, and artisanal products.
Location:
- Winzavod Art Center is located in the Zamoskvorechye district of Moscow, a short distance from the city center.
Conclusion: Discover Moscow’s Creative Shopping Scene
Moscow’s concept stores are a reflection of the city’s growing creative culture. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique gifts, handcrafted items, or artisanal products, Moscow’s concept stores offer a diverse range of one-of-a-kind items that reflect the city’s artistic and cultural dynamism.
From luxury fashion boutiques at Tsvetnoy Central Market to artisanal goods at Winzavod, Moscow’s concept stores offer something for everyone. Explore these spaces for a truly unique shopping experience, where creativity, culture, and design come together in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.