I often find myself loitering in this illustrious neck of the woods. I love it, as it is always brilliant shopping. Often hectic, but hey, that's London, look around, everywhere is. Just take care of your purse and watch out for those sneaky eyes and opportunistic furtive looks and Bob might turn out to be your rich uncle after all.
Ok, Clarks used to be for truly 'sensible' people. No style, no elegance, just the 'raw' deal. You could really see what you were getting in a pair of Clarks shoes. Really no mystery at all. And, you would damn well know that dear Aunt Mabel would have herself a field day drooling over those thick, flat, librarian style sling backs that would last her at least 15 more years.
But...and wait for it....I don't kid you. Clarks have really modernised and yes, become quite hip in the process and our feet, which have been feeling the squeeze on so many levels for years, are really benefiting tremendously.
Like many, I used to always give Clarks a sideways glance, knowing exactly what was through that door. Thought - Nana Mouskouri, thick rimmed glasses - and hairy armpits and moved quickly by. But, their bright and encouraging window dressing display finally got me in one day, but not before checking out my panoramic vision to see who might be watching me decamp into the depths of the unknown. I told myself I was taking the plunge...for dear Aunt Mabel. And, I have been pleased I did ever since.
Their own range of goodies that they proudly display all over the show are indeed 'sensible' but without the loss to style. They have learnt. Their Un-Structured and Active Air range are their main support system and they are great. Coming in all sorts of delightful styles and modern colours that would comfort and nurture any foot with callouses and bunions brought on by years of stiletto wearing.
They still don't cater for the real 'fancy dress party popper' or for the woman who, instead of going on a diet, just increases the height of her heel in order to 'hopefully' get that long skinny look. But, what you do get, is a good-looking, sensibly priced shoe, with lots of choices in store that are strong and long wearing that you won't have to take off mid-sentence just because that blasted blister is too much to bear. read more