Mirror
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Be
wowed at ‘Angel’ Believe me, I know. I’m a victim… and what’s worse is that I’m loving it! Now, as you probably know, we addicts are always compelled to be on the prowl for the beautiful and the original. This compulsion has us combing entire countries for places where the accessories are as enchanting, as they are inexpensive. Exploring earring shops, for instance (my own particular vice), has become as natural as breathing (well not entirely, but close enough). It is this reflex that explains why on one of my usual runs, I happened to walk into the little shop called Angel on Duplication Road. When I finally walked out an hour later, I was partly ashamed, partly exhilarated to have used up my month’s earring quota in there. (At this point, it must be admitted that I also do struggle with a fatal attraction to neon pink signboards – and that might just have tipped it in the shop’s favour.) As is the case when this happens to me, I spread the word around. This is due to the additional comfort I receive from watching others around me also empty their wallets in the name of the same frivolous cause. But I suppose a little more information is required before you would consider dooming yourself to penury for the rest of the month. Angel is a young store – in both age and size. Having opened only around December last year, they haven’t really had a lot of time to establish themselves. Everything they sell is packed into this one small room, and while you wouldn’t want to be stuck there during rush hours, when the store is empty, there is the feeling of accidentally having stumbled onto a treasure chest. Rows and rows of earrings, a number of necklaces, handbags, shoes, bracelets, watches and even hair accessories are on display. There’s also a small section for the little ones. I manage to meet Thasnim, Amal and Senaz – the three people behind the place. While they are partners in the store, Thasnim explains that their tastes are anything but similar. Thasnim for instance loves the exotic and the eccentric, whereas Amal prefers the more conventionally appealing and delicate. So each pick out whatever stock they think would appeal to the customer – the result is an eclectic selection – with something for everyone. In addition, the stock, Thasnim declares, boasts new arrivals every two weeks. Where they go shopping has also paid off – Thailand, India, Africa and Bangkok often play host to the trio. I find myself particularly drawn to their South African jewellery, which seems to consist mostly of polished wood and native designs. Big and flamboyant, I haven’t seen much of that around. The shoes stocked run the gamut from plain sandals to beaded evening wear. Hand bags, jewellery and even sunglasses can be coordinated. In fact, Amal hopes that they will soon be big enough to provide a one stop shop – with completely coordinated accessories – for every customer. |
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