What Goes Around Comes Around

Military dress and army surplus take up a large area of this store, with a row of guardsman’s jackets, from £75, hanging from the ceiling. Most of the everyday stock failed our quality inspection, though. We foraged through footwear to the sound of Elvis Costello’s Angels Wanna Wear My Red Shoes – only these shoes were so worn out, even your nan would throw them away. The leather on a pair of driving gloves flaked away, and an orange cotton mac with diagonal pockets would have been a good find for £48, if it was in better shape. The staff didn’t say hello or make eye contact, even when we were at the counter. We liked the pretty ‘50s and ’60s shell tops, but they’re pricey at £22-28. Skirts were a better bet, from £10, but no joy on the knitwear front – it’s the place where old batwing-sleeved sweaters go to die. Men’s accessories were in good supply, though, and local dandies wouldn’t argue with striped braces for £6 and a rayon Tootal scarf for £18.