With two stunning shops in the heart of Durham City Centre and an enviable reputation of almost 40 years in business, it is fair to say Andersons of Durham is a thriving independent business.
We visited The Keep, the luxury clothing boutique on Saddler Street selling both men’s and women’s collections. However, Anderson’s also has a shoe shop in Durham’s Indoor Market, specialising in English handmade men’s leather shoes.
The Keep stocks a number of brands; from the country style classics such as Barbour and Dubarry, to the more fashion orientated Gant and Vilagallo, so there really is something for everyone.
Looking around the store it is immediately clear what the main trends are, as the beautiful floor to ceiling displays are styled beautifully with the garments.
Business owner, Sarah, breaks down the trends.
Firstly, there is the quirky palm leaf print design from Aigle. This signature print is emblazoned across shirts, jackets, capes; and it looks great. It is a totally unique print, and the Hawaiian-esque leaves remind you of summer. Interspersed among these bold printed items are practical waterproof jackets in olive green and sand, colours that give a real utilitarian vibe as well as being seasonally appropriate.
Next up is the nautical trend, which Sarah comments: “It comes in every year”.
The chic sailor girl vibe is perfect for warmer climates, and is one of those trends that will never go out of style. Highlights are the stunning navy and blue stripes from Gant, like the woollen baggy jumper, or pretty prom-style dress. This collection also includes shoes, blue moccasins perfect for the wooden deck of a yacht and espadrille wedges in blue, white and tan; the epitome of summer colours, and a perfect combination.
The last trend is boucle jackets, or as Sarah calls them, the “little Chanel numbers”. These are a summery, modern take on a tweed jacket. The boxy cropped shape is very reminiscent of Coco Chanel’s signature look. The jackets are from the Spanish brand Vilagallo, they are completely and handmade and simply stunning. The colours range from pretty pastel pink, to a poppy bright red, classic navy, and a very different lime green. They would look perfect over a classic shift dress for a summer wedding, or even adding a smarter touch to denim shorts and sandals.
Andersons of Durham is a great shop, stocking a brilliant range of brands and simply stunning, unique clothes. It is a two minute walk from the Cathedral, so if you are visiting Durham be sure to pay a visit to Andersons and admire their fabulous stock. Try and resist buying all of it!
