If you’re shopping locally for elusive, eclectic or even classic menswear, gifts and accessories, look no further than the delightful independent shop James Lear of Arundel.
The shop, in Nailsworth’s Fountain Street, was named after Polly’s entrepreneurial great-grandfather and founded by Polly Smart and her mother, Hariette, back in 2012, their initial direction being to showcase goods made by local artisans with a sense of rural and British tradition.
“After an inspirational visit to the Goodwood Revival, we began to stock a selection of classic Harris Tweed,” explains Polly.
Fast forward to the festive season of 2021, their initial range has branched out. Alongside bodycare, cards and wrapping paper, Polly now stocks a huge array of menswear, womenswear, accessories, homeware and gifts.
And while some shops err on the side of minimalism, Polly’s retail strategy seems to be the opposite: stacked high and over two floors, James Lear of Arundel is a cornucopia of original and delightful ideas to stimulate the senses. From ‘Peaky Blinders’ eight-piece caps to Nordic jumpers and from Harris Tweed hip flasks to Cornish-designed wool and recycled cotton blankets, a browse will discover all manner of interesting items.
“Our overriding principle is to source a wide choice of selected quality items, rather than to compete with branded goods online,” says Polly.
Being able to offer such a degree of choice and inspiration has also led Polly to generate after-hours wedding appointments for the “groom-to-be” and his groomsmen – enabling prospective husbands an opportunity to find sartorial inspiration and fine-tune their wardrobe for the big day.
“I figured it was about time men experienced a little of the same fun we girls traditionally enjoy!”
To contact Polly, message her at emailus@jamesleararundel.co.uk or phone 01453 835941 – and keep an eye on her Instagram page at www.instagram.com/jameslearofarundel for updates of the latest products.
