River Island - it's one of those "love it or hate it" stores, isn't it? Of all the people I speak to about it (Not, you understand, that I go around talking about River Island all the time), I'd say about half think it's one of the gems of the high street, while the other half immediately turn pale and start muttering about glittery jeans and trashy-looking clothes.
Now, I freely admit to being a fan of River Island's shoes and denim (No, not the glittery stuff: just the regular, sparkle-free jeans, which are one of the few brands that fit me), but I have to admit, even I was surprised to hear that Company Magazine has just declared it the best store on the UK high street - voted so by no less than the general public.
Around 6000 people voted in Company's poll, and while River Island's success is perhaps a bit less of a surprise given the massive profit rise they reported a few weeks back, I think a few people will be surprised to see them knock TopShop off the top spot. Top Shop have won the "Best High Street Store" category for the past three years now, and I'd say it was those high prices that have done them in, but in all honesty, River Island's aren't much better. The pink dress in the picture, for example, is £39.99, as is the grey sweater dress, while the cropped jacket is £44.99.
River Island was also voted "Best Place to Spend £50" and won the "Best Bags" category. Other winners included:
Primark: Most Improved Shop on the High Street
Debenhams: Best Department Store
George at Asda: best Supermarket Range
La Senza: Best Underwear
Faith: Best Footwear
French Connection: Best Place to Go Mad With £250
Who would have got your vote?
