Style & Design
Originally published on Tuesday, 27th July 2010
His ‘n’ Hers
Single sex boutiques open
Pink and blue baby bumf. Male and female toilets. His ‘n’ hers hotel slippers.
We’re taught from an early age that the sexes are segregated. Not that it’s stopped us trying to cross boundaries, blurring the androgynous line or entering into transvestite territory. If only we could pee standing up. If only we had boo.... you know the rest.
So it’s nice to see a couple of boutiques opening up with their wares strongly steered towards each sex. Hostem , situated at the top corner of the increasingly populated Redchurch Street, is split into three beautifully love-worn areas with the men firmly in mind. Visvim, Mastermind Japan and Adam Kimmel in the first bright space, Rick Owens in amongst scuffed floorboards and low-hanging lightbulbs in a second room, and rotating designers in the third section – complete with coffee pot.
And whilst their other halves are holed up in Hostem, ladies should pop down the street (grab a fist-sized pastry from Albion on the way) to 11 Boundary. Stocking brands like Tom Ford Sunglasses (so we’re counting on these guys getting his hugely anticipated first womenswear collection), Wildfox Couture (bringing back the cheeky slogan tee) and House of Harlow, it’s full of mid-range treats and pocket-friendly finds.
Looks like the Battle of the Sexes is back on. If we can stay out of each others’ pockets – literally.
INFO
Hostem, 41-43 Redchurch Street, E2 7DJ.
11 Boundary, 11 Boundary Street, E2 7JE
