Simon Carter - rebooted

Simon Carter's first appearance on this blog was back in 2013. Six years later the store has had a bit of a refit, and it's great to see plenty of local history incorporated into the new design scheme. An image of the palace serves as a backdrop at one end, while the iguanodon presides over the shirt wall at the pointy end of the shop. And it's not just the decor, some of the merchandise is also locally themed. Pocket squares featuring a very dapper T Rex, and a selection of dino cufflinks among them. No doubt lots of them will be shortly making their way into Christmas stockings locally.
They seem to have fitted in lots more merchandise into what is a tiny shop, without making it look overstuffed, including a new display wall of boots and shoes at the back. A couple of fab vintage light fittings add a retro glow, while my favourite feature is the black floor inset with classic mother of pearl buttons. A simple but charming idea! It's also good to see that some of the old familiar characters that have always populated the shop, remain. From Crystal, the porcelain cat, to the dashing naval officer.
Still, the best thing about this brand, is the shirts, from floral, and paisley, to dogs, bicycles and butterflies. Just don't ask for a plain one!

John Wetherill, store manager

Simon Carter

71 Westow Street