New Look was my 20 minute layover between commuting (its right outside Moorgate Station, steps from the back entrance) and a massage at Blue Cow Yoga (DO IT). While there wasn't much to entertain me in a non-food, non-drink, non-bankerboy way in this area of The City...New Look was positioned perfectly.
Also, I like to play a game. I've played this since I was small and was in church (bored) and would try to assemble imaginary outfits for myself based only on the parishoners. Not an easy task in late 80's, Northern MIchigan Americanaland...but it's a challenge I've now transferred to "cheapie" stores. I always think "I can find an outfit that works here," -- and I did.
To be honest, it wasn't as hard as it first would appear. The first floor is frankly full of trash and "casual wear" which should be avoided for the most part if you care about your appearance. The basement is where its at. There are some very cute dresses and non-NewLook brands to peruse, and I scored a really lovely black sweater and black pants to round out a few outfits and refresh some old staples. The prices are fair (I wouldn't say "super cheap" -- but for London, it pretty much is. As much as I'd like to support indie designers in the 'Ditch, sometimes you just need a black sweater for under 30 quid and call it a day.
Sales staff ignored everyone (near closing time) but the gal that checked me out was sweet. Don't know if I'd go as far to say that if I needed something in a different size or something that they'd be "helpful" -- but good enough, surely.
My tips for shopping at any store that caters to a "younger" crowd (oh my god, am I old? I'm old):
1. Arm yourself with self-esteem and realize that if you are over the age of 18, you'll prob have to go up a size or 4. Seriously, don't take it personally...and really, don't even bother trying on any pants with a definite waistline, unless you plan on crying your way home with a Big Mac and Ben 'n Jerrys. For real. It's just how it is, so be prepared!
2. Use your imagination to pair some of their :::ahem::: racier items with some classic items you might already have...for example, a hot pink lace cami is a little garish on its own, but cover it with your own (grown up) blazer, and its hot. Be creative!
*also, it's a much calmer and less chaotic alternative to H&M, with pretty good accessories (scored a coral scarf) and some good 2-time shoes (meaning they'll fall apart after two times, but if you need some neon stacked heels...how often are you really getting out in those things? Twice.)
Done and done, add it to the rotation if you are in the area. read more