If you’ve been in Cardiff and think you’ve seen it all when it comes to shopping, you need to visit CO.LAB. It’s a new spot in St. David’s Centre, and honestly, it’s a shopping experience that feels completely different to any other I’ve tried before.
I popped in the other day and was genuinely surprised at how fun, easy, and refreshing it made looking at clothes in person again. The layout is unlike any shop I’ve been in before. The clothes are super spaced out, which means you’re not squeezing past racks crammed together or tripping over someone else’s shopping bags.
Everything feels really intentional and airy, giving you room to breathe (and shop) and what’s especially cool about CO.LAB is how they’ve managed to guide you through the store without being pushy. Each area feels like it’s been curated with endless amounts of care and consideration, but there’s also this freedom to just roam around and stumble upon random pieces you didn’t even know you connected with. For the latest Cardiff news, sign up to our newsletter here
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CO.LAB arrived in St David’s Centre recently and it is a gorgeous addition to the shopping centre
There are colours popping out everywhere -Credit:Niall Cowell Photography
The displays are immaculately presented -Credit:Niall Cowell Photography
Basically, you can see exactly where things are, but there’s still that sense of discovery as you explore different sections. I especially loved how they presented their books which are proudly showcased by being spread out, giving each one its individual moment.
The same goes for most items in there as it very much feels like each piece of clothing and accessory is shown off like a piece of art rather than just another item. We’ve also got to talk about how colourful it is as the whole space feels so alive with bold displays and vibrant pops of colour drawing you in. It’s not one of those overly minimalistic, sterile-feeling stores.
Instead, it feels warm and inviting, fun and almost playful. It made me want to spend time there, rather than rush through, which is something I haven’t felt about shopping in person in ages. The whole mood also feels fresh, I think because of what it stands for. This isn’t your typical high-street chain or boutique. It’s a pop-up that gives smaller, emerging brands a chance to shine.
The way clothes are showcased makes you actually want to spend money there as you can walk around and explore a range of styles -Credit:Niall Cowell Photography
Outside the newly-opened shop in St David’s Centre -Credit:Niall Cowell Photography
CO.LAB brings together more than 80 fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands, allowing them to experiment with retail space. -Credit:Niall Cowell Photography
Over 80 brands are being featured here, so it’s very much like stepping into a bunch of mini-shops under one roof. And they all feel like items you wouldn’t see everywhere else.
The space itself also has a lovely, community feel as the sense that the people working there are really keen to engage with shoppers, so the whole experience feels far less passive, like most shops. They’ve got a shared event area where they host things like workshops and talks, which adds a whole new layer to the interior.
Their events are all tailored to different interests and needs. Fashion lovers can enjoy styling sessions, meet-and-greets with leading fashion CEOs, exclusive promotions, and more and for those seeking wellness, CO.LAB also provides yoga classes, breathwork sessions, and sound baths designed to promote relaxation and mental well-being.
When they launched a few months ago, Helen Morgan, Centre Director of St David’s Cardiff, noted: “Co.Lab is a new, ground-breaking pop-up retail concept that will be a home for independent brands that foster innovation, sustainability, and local talent.”
The founder of Oceanus, a brand on a mission to redefine swimwear and empower women which also based themselves there, Hannah Attalah added: “Oceanus is excited to be part of CO.LAB. We love innovative ideas and being able to bring our collection to more people.”
There’s already been a fair bit of noise about this place on social media, but I feel like it will really take off during the festive season and I would definitely urge anyone to head in there if they fancy enjoying a fun and different shopping experience.