Sloane Square style

[sloaney]

It's another very sweaty afternoon in London today. I just came back from Sloane Square and walked around King's Road. It's my first time exploring the area in depth. Most of this will be probably old news for members who have frequented this area, but I was quite struck by the style of those walking around Sloane Square and up/down King's Road.

The best way to describe the area is as the equivalent of Manhattan's Upper East Side, but definitely for a very young post-University crowd. Even more so than the Upper East Side, the (extreme) homogeneity of the style is very apparent.

For men, the standard uniform is a a polo shirt (preferrably Polo Ralph Lauren) and/or casual shirt with sleeves rolled up, and khaki shorts. Shoes are invariably penny loafers or boat shoes. The preferred watch is a Rolex Submariner.

For women, there are two uniforms. Either the female equivalent of what is described above, or a "bohemian chic" ensamble of blouse and skirt. Oversized sunshades, especially Gucci's, are very popular.

In short, everyone is young, fit, beautiful and (looks) wealthy. It is really a pleasant area to visit, with outdoor cafes and mid-priced stores.


PS: On another note, I've just been quoted 40 pounds per hour for personal training. Is this normal? I think it's really expensive!

 

[kitonbrioni]

Empirical proof that London is one of the most expensive cities in world.

 

[whoopee]

40 quid per hour isn't a bad rate.

 

[sloaney]

I clearly do not make enough money. Twice a week of personal training would run up to GBP 320 per month.

 

[whoopee]

You seem to be a young guy. Unless you're doing some specialty work, and because ostensibly you could use that money in other ways, I'm not sure why you would need a trainer.

 

[sloaney]

Originally Posted by whoopee

You seem to be a young guy. Unless you're doing some specialty work, and because ostensibly you could use that money in other ways, I'm not sure why you would need a trainer.

Because I guess I want to look better. Much better. All the clothes in the world won't help. Don't get me wrong, I'm not "gross", just slightly above my ideal weight. But I'm certainly not fit or muscular either. I'm pretty happy where I am intellect-wise and career-wise. So I guess this is really a part of myself I want to improve.

I mean just walking around Sloane Square and King's Road .... I just feel I can't compete (sigh)

 

[Bradford]

Sloane Square / Kings Road has always been the epitome of the upscale, what we in America would call Preppy look.

Remember when they used to refer to Princess Diana and her types as "Sloane Rangers"?

As to personal training, that is quite steep. But considering prices that have been reported from London for other items, probably not surprising.

I would guess you could probably find something cheaper if you tried some other areas of London - i.e. not in Chelsea or other posh areas.

 

[bondurant]

My trainer at my gym in Chelsea charges more than £40/hour, so I agree what you've been quoted is probably about right, although I would think that's probably the high end of the market.

You may want to check out gyms near where you work or avoid the poshest gyms and Chelsea and look at Fitness First or David Lloyd. I think you can probably find something in the £30/hour range if you expand the scope of your search.