Retail therapy

Jan 12 2008 by Hannah Davies, The Journal

THE January sale at boudoir specialist Ophelia Boutique, Clayton Road, Jesmond, has been going for a week but there are still bargains to be had with 30% off Cash Ca cashmere knitwear and 50% off all lingerie and nightwear from La Perla, Fleur T, Alice & Astrid and Elle MacPherson Boudoir ranges. This pretty bra and thong by Princesse Tam Tam was originally £39 and £24 respectively; now they’re just £19.50 and £12; (0191) 281-0609.

WE’RE all conscious of having our own permanent shopping bag now; we’re unwilling to accept any more plastic, but some of the bags on offer are less than fashionable. Thank goodness the original and the best, Katharine E Hamnett, has chosen her first 1983 ‘Choose Life’ statement (inspired by Buddhism), to feature on an exclusive 100% organic cotton twill, UK produced, tote bag, in eight colourways, £35. The bag is also available with the “Without Love we are Nothing” slogan and “Clean Up or Die”, www.katharinehamnett.com

KATHARINE Hamnett’s ‘Stay Alive in 85’ slogan sparked off a series of copyists. With apologies to her, dare we suggest a “Lose some weight in 2008” mantra as a New Year’s Resolution? So long as we resolve to have lots of fun doing so. We can release our inner child with this “33% bigger than the original size” retro Giant Space Hopper from the Science Museum, £14.95, with foot pump and fact sheet on the 70’s history and science behind the invention. Available from trampoline specialistswww.bouncyhappypeople.co.uk

ADMIRERS of LK Bennett shoes within Fenwick Shoe Hall will be delighted to know the accompanying fashion line is also now available in store, within its own concession. This bright and cheery as a daffodil cotton mac, £199 sizes 6-16, with white “sweetie” buttons, gives some indication of what to expect: excellent quality on-trend key pieces. This then is the first of the most noticeable trends for Spring, Acid Brights; there’ll be plenty more to come, (0191) 232-5100.

DESPERATE for new work gear but still feeling the financial strain after Christmas? This new George machine washable men’s suit arrives at Asda on Monday morning for just £15. And the Monday after? Tailored straight leg trousers for girls will be just £5 with a classic semi fitted white shirt and bracelet length sleeves thrown in for free.

Monday mornings just became a whole lot more interesting, (0191) 460-2981.