England, Lifestyle, Living Abroad, Moving

Best American Shops and Brands in the UK

Are you American thinking of moving to the UK?  Or someone that just loves American shops and brands but is living abroad?  I’m here to help you find those American stores and brands to fulfill your shopping needs. 

It may be exciting to you that you’ll be packing up and leaving America behind for a new start in the UK.  

When moving to the UK, you might think that you’ll have to bring all your belongings and then some.  Before I moved here, I thought that most American shops and brands I love weren’t available in the UK.  

Well, I’m here to tell you that there are plenty of American stores and brands to shop at in England, such as Ray-Ban, Adidas, Claire’s, and Victoria’s Secret.  I didn’t realize how many popular American brands were in the UK until I moved here.  I was pleased to know that I can still get some of the brands I love and use the most.

Don’t get me wrong, you will not find ALL the popular American shops in the UK, like Target UK or Walmart UK…I know the tragedy

But the UK usually has an equivalent American shop or brand here for you to find what you are looking for.  

With that, don’t worry about if you will find the perfect outfit, pair of shoes, or home decor here.  I want to let you know that you will find plenty of American shops and brands right here in the UK. 

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and recommend. If you click on any of the links and make a purchase, then I may earn a small commission. For more info, click my full disclosure.


American Shops in the UK for Clothes

H&M 

I love shopping at the H&M in the UK.  In my opinion, I think its better shopping at H&M UK than in the US.  I know, shocker right?  Every time I see those big red letters on the building, I cannot help but go in the store to see what the latest trend is.  

The style of clothing, in my opinion, is just more fashionable.  I love winter clothes especially, like their stylish coats and outerwear accessories.  I think it’s cheaper to buy from H&M in England than in the US. 

You can find an H&M in almost every city in the UK, including Bury St. Edmunds, London, Cambridge, Reading, Belfast, and Edinburgh.  There are literally 100’s of stores here.  While you are out and about, I know you will come across an H&M store. 

TK Maxx AKA TJ Maxx 

When I was living in the US, I loved going to TJ Maxx to find popular brand clothing, shoes, and home goods for a bargain.  So when I saw TK Maxx, I was first confused because of the slightly different name.  

But, even though the name is different, the store is mostly still the same with European and American brand name clothing.  You can still find popular brands and accessories for less.  

So if you are missing home, just take a trip to TK Maxx and portal back in time back to when you were shopping in the US. 

There are approximately 349 TK Maxx stores throughout the UK, so you can find a store near you no matter where you live, even if it takes a short road trip to get there. 

Gap 

The Gap is another popular American shop that is available in the UK.  I’ve been to the Gap when I was shopping in this cute town of Oxford.  

The Gap here is pretty much the same as in the US with casual yet affordable clothing.  They have great prices so you can purchase clothes for less here too.  Honestly, I like the Old Navy more and since they don’t have one here, going to the Gap store is very close in comparison.

The North Face

I didn’t realize that North Face was so popular internationally until I moved to the UK.  Their outerwear comes in handy with the rain and cold season while living here.  

My entire household has at least one North Face Jacket.  Plus, you’ll see this top brand name on the backs of many locals around here.  

For those days out when you want to explore one of the many parks around here or go on a hiking trip, knowing that you can get your hands on the right outerwear is paramount. 

So yes, the UK has brands and clothing for the weather seasons, especially here. 

Polo Ralph Lauren

I mean, of course, there’s a Ralph Laren Polo store in the UK.  I’m sure this is no surprise here. 

If you like those nice classic collared shirts, then you are in the right place.  You’ll find something to wear from business to casual clothes, especially men.  

Hey ladies, if you are trying to convince your husband to move to England, hit him with the “Hey babe, they even have a Polo store!” That’ll get his attention.

American shops
Bond Street

Other popular American Shops and Brands in the UK for Clothes

  • Zara
  • Calvin Klein
  • Hollister
  • Abercrombie & Fitch
  • Guess
  • Levi’s
  • Lacoste
  • Tommy Hilfiger

Popular American Stores and Brands in the UK for Shoes

Vans 

When I think of Vans, I think of the skateboarder crew rocking their new shoes while doing epic tricks at the skateboard park.  

However, this popular American shop isn’t just for skateboarders.  They have become a part of fashion and culture.  I adore the softness of the shoes, how light they are, and the array of colors they have.  

There are Vans stores located throughout London and the UK.  

Furthermore, the House of Vans London opened in 2014 as a 3,000 sq m skate park with art and music.  

This space is underneath the Waterloo Train station as part of London’s creative playground.

Aldo 

I was hype when I saw an Aldo while out shopping in England.  The Aldo that I’ve been to is in the Westfield Stratford mall in London.  

I like to shop at Aldo for its range of pretty heels, pumps, and stylish boots.  

Most of the Aldo shoe stores are in London and the outskirts.  However, a few are in other areas in the UK, such as Manchester and Dublin.  If you prefer, you can also order your shoes online at Aldoshoes.co.uk.  

UGG

I know you either hate Uggs, or you love them. I personally love a good pair of Uggs boots because they are so comfortable.

Blame it on Brian Smith, the Australian designer of this comfortable yet stylish footwear.  Regardless of how you feel about Uggs, they are still one of the most popular brands in the US. 

If you like your feet covered by the warmth of sheepskin and fur-lined boots, then you’ll be happy to know that the stores are here, and you don’t have to stock up on these boots before you leave the US.   

Foot Locker 

I would’ve never guessed there would be a Foot Locker in the UK.  The Foot Locker American shops has been around the US for as long as I can remember. 

They have a huge selection of top brand-name sneakers and sportswear in the stores.  You can find a Foot Locker all around the UK, including London, Edinburgh, and Ireland.  

Adidas 

So who doesn’t like a good pair of trainers…oh I mean sneakers?  Yeah, just in case you missed my British English vs American English post, the Brits call their sneakers trainers here.  

There are a limited number of Adidas Originals Flagship stores in the UK, located mainly in London like in Westfield Stratford mall and along Oxford Street.  So whenever you are in London, go shopping at Adidas.  

Still, you can find Adidas shoes at most sports stores here, such as JD Sports.   In addition, you can order from Adidas UK online if you want them to get shipped directly to your home. 

Nike 

Isn’t it great that Nike is a global brand? This American brand is a household name, and there are tons of Nike stores throughout the UK.  Even if you don’t come across the Nike store itself (doubt it), Nike’s are sold in other Department stores and sports stores here. 

Other notable American Shops for Shoes in the UK

  • Steve Madden 
  • Skechers
  • Timberland

Popular American Shops and Brands in the UK for Accessories

Claire’s 

My teenage daughter was absolutely stoked when she saw Claire’s in England.  It’s pretty nostalgic when you see familiar things in a foreign country. It just makes you feel good and more comfortable about where you are. 

Anywho Claire’s is a great accessories store that sells adorable earrings and other jewelry, hair accessories, and more.  My daughter and I usually go for cool earrings.  They usually have good sales going on, too, like buy 3 get 3 for free!!!

Pandora 

Don’t you just love the adorable Pandora bracelets where you can add cute charms to them?  

If you already have a Pandora charm bracelet and think you have to fill it up before you leave the US, well think again.  Pandora is just as popular here in England as they are in America.  There are hundreds of Pandora shops around the UK to shop at, so you can add more beautiful charms to your bracelet. 

Make it even more special for your time here and add some local charms from the UK, such as the Union Jack Flag.   

I know Pandora isn’t technically an American shop since it launched in Denmark.  However, they joined the US market in 2003, becoming the largest market for them globally.  

Tiffany & Company 

The first time I heard of Tiffany’s was from the classic movies Breakfast At Tiffany’s with Audrey Hepburn, Sweet Home Alabama, and one of my favorite shows, Sex and the City.  

Tiffany’s is a luxury American jewelry store specializing in dazzling diamonds. They sell some gorgeous jewelry, but it’s still too rich for my blood. However, if you can afford to splurge, I say shop at their stores around the UK.  

I can see why Tiffany’s is such a popular American brand. Their collections are amazing.  I’ve passed by their beautiful storefronts in London on Bond Street and in Covent Garden many times.  

Can you believe that Tiffany & Company dates back to 1837, with its first store in New York?! Wow, they have definitely stood the test of time.

Michael Kors 

I love me an exquisite Michael Kors handbag.  When you see those MK letters splattered across the luxury handbags, you know who it’s made by. 

Not only does Micheal Kors make great handbags, but he also makes excellent shoes and exceptional glittery watches, and sunglasses too.  I love how feminine he designs the sneakers as well.  Like you want to be comfortable when wearing sneakers, but you also want to be cute too.  

So never fear, no need to buy 100 handbags before coming to the UK.  There are several MK stores to get your gorgeous bags and accessories from in England. 

Coach 

Having a Coach store in the UK shouldn’t be a surprise.  Coach is a classic American shop that everyone is familiar with.  Their brand has been around for ages starting in 1941 when making handmade leather products. 

Yet today, they are still considered to have one of the best collections of luxury bags around the world.  There’s nothing like having a classic Coach bag. 

Other popular American stores for Accessories

  • Ray-Ban
  • The Body Shop
  • Sunglass Hut
  • Fossil
  • Roshunda in Carnaby
  • AMERICAN SHOPS

Lingerie & Sportswear American Shops in the UK

Victoria’s Secret 

Who doesn’t like the Victoria’s Secret Semi-Annual sale when you can buy a buttload of panties and bras for the low-low?  Not only do they have lingerie, but they also have smell-good spray and body lotion in there too.  

If you are a fan of Vicky’s like me, then you’ll be ecstatic that its iconic American shops are located in the UK.  

It’s no secret that Vicky’s is just as popular in the UK as in America. 

Victoria’s Secret Pink 

I also love the “college girl” store because of their stylish leggings for fitness, crop hoodies, and loungewear.  Yes, I know I’m nowhere near college age, but it still looks cool and cozy on me too. 

With that, if you are trying to convince your tweens and teens about England, then let them know their store is in the UK.

American Shop in the UK for Makeup

Mac Cosmetics 

Mac cosmetics is a popular American shop that specializes in beautiful makeup.  I especially love their Mac lipstick with its selections of bold colors.  You’ll love having access to their cosmetics if you are a makeup person.  

When you put the red lipstick on, it’ll transform your look from regular to glam.  The lipsticks may cost a little more than Covergirl and Rimmel, but they will last you for a long time. 

Popular American Stores in the UK for the Home

IKEA 

Although IKEA started in Sweden, it is still a renowned store in the US.  IKEA saves the day when it comes to affordable but good-looking furniture. 

The shop location we usually shop at is in Milton Keynes, UK.  However, there’s an IKEA at the Westfield Stratford City mall and other areas throughout the UK. 

Plus you don’t even have to go into the store to shop.  You can shop IKEA online, and they will ship the items to your house.  That was a definite plus for us during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

We built a closet out of our spare bedroom with the IKEA Shelving systems that were purchased online and delivered to our house.

Other notable American Home stores in the UK

  • Home Sense
  • Costco

American Shop in the UK for Electronics

Apple 

If you are an Apple head like me, you will be so happy to know there are some Apple stores in the UK.  I love Apple products, and it’s great to just go in the store to see all those beautiful shining gadgets up close.  

Also, sometimes our gadgets break down too, and I prefer to send my Apple product to the Apple store if it needs fixing. 

Popular American Shop in the UK for Weddings

David’s Bridal

Although there are so many beautiful bridal stores around the UK, David’s Bridal is still that iconic chain store that everyone knows across the globe.

When I was planning my wedding to be held in the US, it helped that my friends could go to their nearest David’s Bridal store to pick out their dresses.  

Anywho, David’s Bridal in Westfield Stratford city has a beautiful store.  Just in case you decide to get married abroad as I did.  

Notable American Shops in the UK for Kids

The Disney Store 

So letting your kids know there’s a Disney store in the UK would have them leaping for joy about moving here. 

Not only is there a store, but have you heard of DisneyLand Paris

Anyhow, let your kid’s dreams come true by visiting the Disney store UK so they can see the princess costumes, stuffed animals, and other Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars products.  

The LEGO Store 

The LEGO Store I’m familiar with is at Leicester Square in London.  I don’t think I’d ever been to a Lego store until I went to London.  And the LEGO store is very popular here.  In fact, I would be surprised if there wasn’t a line outside full of people waiting to get in. 

Yes, it’s that big of a deal.  

If your kids love building things and playing with Legos, they are in for a good time. 

I know Legos aren’t just for kids either, so don’t feel ashamed if you like to collect Legos too.  Shhh…I won’t tell anybody.


That’s all I have. Is there any American shops and brands that I forgot to add? Please let me know by commenting below. 

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Further Reading for moving to the UK

12 Shocking Differences Living in the UK vs US

Life in England: Top 13 Reason Why You Will Love Living here

22 Practical Going Away Gifts for Friend Moving Overseas

Top 75 British vs American Words You Need to Know

Moving to England from US: 10 things Americans Need to Know Now

Ultimate Packing List for Moving Abroad: Things You Need to Know

What I’ve Learned After 2 Years Living in England

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