If you’re anything like me, expensive clothing and shoe shops are not comfortable places to be in. I do own suits and smart clothing (much to the surprise of my employer), as well as the odd decent pair of shoes, but the memories of choosing and purchasing these items are, at best, awkward. I think it’s a combination of patronising staff and feeling generally out of place, entering in my jeans and t-shirt. It was a surprise, therefore, that the Jeffery West store in Barton Arcade, celebrating its first year of business in Manchester and one of only five outlets in the country for bespoke shoes and accessories from this brand, had a very calming effect on me.

Their shop in Barton Arcade, a small but perfectly formed little boutique, decked out in red velvet curtains, spongy carpet and some great original art works, is a surprisingly laid back affair. Expecting my usual wave of inferiority complex coupled with a sense of not belonging, I found myself relaxed and able to talk frankly with the very knowledgeable and personable staff. Their super-sharp dress and, of course, fine footwear are certainly not indicators of their attitude towards scruffy civilians such as I. Before long, I was picking through the shoes and accessories with near abandon, trying on different styles and testing out the odd cobra-head cane for size.



The new Sylvian range.

Manager Tom Connell understood my initial apprehension. “We do find some people are a bit wary of coming in,” he explained, “But once they enter they realise we’re a very friendly lot and are happy for them to try on anything they like.” With belts, umbrellas, ties, bags and even furniture on offer, as well as the shoes and cobra-head canes, there’s a lot to try and undoubtedly something that will appeal to everyone.

Let’s be honest though – Jeffery West shoes are not for the financially challenged amongst us. If I were to buy a pair I would expect them to last me a very long time (which I’m sure they would - quality, make no mistake, is in abundance). Starting at around the £200 mark, the vast selection available, in many styles and colours, only go north in price from there. They are, however, supremely crafted and their range offers a variety of styles to suit all tastes, from rather flamboyant purple lines to more day to day, understated styles.

If you’re like me and would think twice about going into Jeffery West for a look around, discard such thoughts and give it a go, you might be surprised. If you’re nothing like me and are used to being well dressed and shopping in such decadent surroundings, you might also be surprised. It’s actually a very pleasant experience.

Jeffery West are at No.1 Barton Arcade, Deansgate, Manchester M3 2BB. Tel. 0161 835 9284. Their new collection is in store now.