Aquascutum

Shhhh, don’t tell anybody but Chatham Place in Hackney is undergoing a bit of a transformation. Big, high end, outlet stores keep opening up and there are more to come. So far we have Burberry, Pringle and now, in an old factory where they’ve literally cut an entrance into what used to be a brick wall, Aquascutum.
For me, this is really great news for Hackney. This part of the borough has seen some pretty tough times recently especially with last year’s riots, so the fact that so many big buck companies are investing in the area, bringing tourists and shoppers seeking a bargain whilst supporting the local independent coffee shops and cafes those tourists pass, is great.
What’s better is Aquascutum pricing. You can get a suit here, a really nice £500+ suit for less than half price. Today I bought 4 shirts that would be £120 each on Regents St but here they were reduced to £65. Still pricey right? However, if you buy two you pay £60! And I don’t mean each. YOU PAY LESS FOR TWO SHIRTS THAN FOR ONE. And then 4 shirts for £100. Obviously I bought 4. Similarly I walked out with 4 ties for £100 (usually £70 each).
Now there is a bit of a sale on at the moment so these prices might not always stay this way but even without the sale, it’s still damn good.
The staff are relatively fresh in their jobs, not as polished as those on Saville Row or Regents St, but give ‘em time (they are full of smiles and eager to help), it’s only week 4 and they’re local people really excited about what’s happening to their neighbourhood.
PS — there is very little mention of these places online, just go, now, before the hoards arrive.