HAUS DIGITAL

Edinburgh’s Uncut Diamonds

Art, life and beauty. As a resident of the original and eclectic Edinburgh, I’d say these are the values that best encapsulate the eccentric fashion it displays and houses. If you asked somebody where the fashion capital of Britain was, chances are you’d hear ‘London, Birmingham and Manchester’. No doubt they’re rightly associated with a strong sense of style and distinct trends but Edinburgh has a unique contribution to make.

Renowned for its elaborate Georgian architecture and cobbled Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s fashion is the way it often reflects the antithetical nature of the city. Within 5 minutes you go from peering up at towering Corinthian column, the surreal Scottish Parliament or an array of colourful houses to up market boutiques, high end fashion and department stores. Alongside this increasingly powerful presence are quirky vintage shops that accurately mirror another visual sub-culture of the city. Whilst there are countless clothes shops in Edinburgh that I feel deserve more recognition than they receive, these are the two that I would like to bring attention to.

“Armstrongs” (Est.1840.)

It’s vibrant and theatrical window displays always stop people in their tracks. A glimpse of vivid colours, unusual textures and cuts leave the public tantalised. The clothes have a magnetic edge to them, as though they have experienced a life of their own. “Armstrongs” indulges those who aren’t afraid to make a statement through their attire. Excuse the Disney inspired clichés but the shop has an “Aladdin’s Cave” feel to it. It is a den of hidden treasures, an “Alice in Wonderland” mix of clothes embodying contrasting trends, lifestyles and music throughout different eras. It reflects the city’s diverse population and strong varied culture. “Armstrongs” boasts an impressive collection of retro sportswear, 40s style dresses and sharp MOD suits/outerwear. It also houses the odd piece from high-street shops. It enfuses the old with the new. “Armstrongs” is like a time capsule which has merged the most individual fashions of the past couple of centuries into one big melting pot. It has a real authenticity that few shops seem to master and is a perfect microcosm of Edinburgh fashion; an almost seamless combination of styles from both past and present.

Another fashion gem to explore is “Cookie” which resides on the often mispronounced “Cockburn Street” (silent K). Primarily a dress shop, the clothes have a delicate design and subtle femininity to them. “Cookie” provides pieces with beautiful silhouettes and often a classic look with a futuristic flare. Think Zoey Deschanel in ‘500 Days Of Summer’.

Edinburgh’s contribution to the world of fashion is definitely noteworthy. The city and the fashion it homes are rich in history and nostalgia whilst being equally inspired by 21^st century life and art. Just as the city embraces extravagant aesthetics mixed with more modern and minimalist rhythms, so do the people.