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Smarts Of York in the news for their 50th Anniversary
The first year of trading at ‘Man at Ease’, 19 New Street, was the most enjoyable and satisfying of my business life. Having people crossing the threshold, myself being friendly, also patient to ensure they return for a second purchase was the aim. To build the stock as well as relationships, both most important.
Towards the latter part of the second year, 23 Lendal (opposite G.P.O) became vacant. The tall, slim, glass-fronted unit (as today) caught my imagination for a younger trendier trade naming “Easy Guy”, on the way to becoming a multiple.
In the early seventies, I opened two further shops in Low Petergate; Squire at 43, and the first under my own name at 67. This street was secondary then, but great future potential with the route from the Minister to the Shambles. By the mid-decade the penny dropped! Why keep leasing with renewals and reviews every year? Be your own landlord, buy a freehold. Yes, good fortune prevailed with the purchase of 61/63 Low Petergate, although any refurbishment was on hold.
During the early sixties, the council removed number 59 Low Petergate because it was structurally unsafe. They then created a small amenity area with paving, bench and grass, down Grape Lane, becoming ‘Buskers Corner’. The idea to bring back number 59 started to formulate, followed by an approach to the planning department on a design to tempt the council into selling the land. The wrap-round building would mirror that on the corner of Stonegate and Low Petergate. All was accepted by central government with permission then being given for the sale of the council-owned land.
The cost of a rounded corner that rose four storeys was not commercially sound, but right for the council, Low Petergate and York. The amount of money for building, interior fittings and stock was a high figure, but a number of manufacturers and suppliers assisted in many ways. In August 1982 the doors opened on another chapter, whilst earlier the doors closed on ‘Easy Guy’, ‘Man at Ease’ and ‘Squire’. The original smaller Robert Smart unit (at 67) lost its formal side, gaining a country feel which exists today as ‘Smart Country’ (now at 65).
In the nineties, named brand designers were back in a big way, so a decision was made to give number 59 its own identity; Mannix. This was to become a younger, more forward-thinking, fashionable division to the business, which continued until 2014, when it was realigned to Robert Smart Menswear (61/63).
That’s the bricks and mortar of the business over fifty years. The next issue highlights the next generation of the Smart Family. Also, some of the staff members who gave much support over the years in contributing to the success of our independent menswear business.
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Accessories
See our range of accessories at Robert Smart Menswear and Smart Country in York, perfect for Christmas presents for your stylish relatives and friends.
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Harris Tweed
Smart Country and Robert Smart Menswear in York have a wide range of Harris Tweed clothing and accessories, perfect for your Christmas gifts for a country loving friend or relative.
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Smart Country Christmas 2016
Come into Smart Country this December to see our fantastic range of clothes and gifts for a country loving family or friend! Barbour, Harris Tweed, Schoffel, RM Williams, Chrysalis, Loake and many more.
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Christmas 2016
Robert Smart Menswear and Smart Country wish all our customers a wonderful Christmas and new year. Don’t forget to pop in and view our ranges to buy the perfect gifts for your loved ones, our range of accessories and clothes would make wonderful presents!!
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Smart Country
Smart Country, selling country clothing for men and women, in York, have many new ranges in for Spring and Summer 2016.
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Summer Sale at Robert Smart Menswear/Smart Country
Summer Sale at Robert Smart Menswear/Smart Country.
Great savings to be had with up to 50% off selected lines. Starts this weekend!
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Anatomic & Co
Anatomic and Co shoes and boots are available from Robert Smart Menswear in York. The Company’s core values of offering a selection of quality branded footwear backed up with a high level of personal service remain today.
The business is now in the hands of the third generation of the family and continues to develop and grow. Anatomic and Co shoes offer one of the largest selections of quality branded footwear available online supported by a high level of customer service from our online team. Anatomic and Co shoes are based in the North East of England at Stockton on Tees where they have 40,000 square feet of warehouse space to service their website and stores. Anatomic and Co shoes have a network 36 stores around the UK .
Anatomic and Co shoes aim is to offer their valued customers a great experience while purchasing shoes. Men’s footwear from Anatomic & Co has reached a new plateau in shoe comfort thanks to the use of the highest qualtiy leather and exclusive Anatomic Gel Technology and takes walking into new dimensions.
Anatomic and Co shoes York are manufactured with full sheep skin lining, the unique tumble grain silky leather upper and pure rubber gel and PU gel soles that allow maximum comfort and cushioned walking. Anatomic and Co shoes York are renowned for high quality; only the finest materials are used and they are 100% handmade.
The unique Anatomic Gel® technology, not seen in any other comfort shoes, that provides unrivalled flexibility and breathability is a result of over 20 years of research and development.
You can find a selection of Medium, Wide and Extra Wide fit shoes and boots with the trademark comfort features and timeless designs we are so proud of.
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Smart Country – full time shop assistant position
Smart Country need a full time shop assistant, weekend work is required.
Please contact Emma Smart emma@robertsmartmenswear.co.uk or call 01904 652718
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Summer Sale at Robert Smart and Smart Country
Come to our Summer Sale at Robert Smart and Smart Country in York on Petergate.
Great savings on may top brands to celebrate The Yorkshire Tour De France and our recent refit.
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May promotional voucher
To celebrate the opening of our newly refurbished store we would like to offer a voucher entitling you to a 10% discount on any purchase at Robert Smart Menswear and Smart Country.
This offer runs from the 3rd May up to and including 31st May 2014. Please print off this voucher, filling in your details below and present in store to receive your promotional discount, which is valid on one single transactional purchase only.
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Smart Country Winter Sale Now On.
Smart Country Winter Sale Now On. Wide range of country clothing and accessories for men and women with many reductions
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Christmas at Robert Smart, Robert Smart and Smart Country
Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and fantastic 2014! Sale now on in Robert Smart!
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Autumn/Winter at Smart Country
October 2013 sees a new range of Schoffel – Outdoor country/lifestyle/shooting specialist menswear, Conkca bags and washbags and many new Barbour jackets and accessories!
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Summer Sale gallery!
See some of the bargains available in Robert Smart Menswear, Robert Smart Menswear and Smart Country in York this summer!
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Summer Sale Now On At Smart Country
Summer Sale Now On At Smart Country
Great bargains to be had – including Barbour – with many ranges reduced throughout the summer!!
Visit our store on Petergate in York!
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Summer Sale now on in Robert Smart Menswear and Smart Country
Summer Sale now on in Robert Smart Menswear and Smart Country
We now have many of our ranges on sale in Robert Smart and Smart Country on Petergate in York. Visit our stores to see the bargains available!
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How to Clean a Barbour Quilted Coat
Barbour quilted coats are available in many styles and colors and include a waterproof dressing to make them a long-lasting product. The waterproof exterior repels liquids so they don’t stain your coat and keeps the sun from drying and bleaching out the color. Cleaning your coat properly protects the material so you can apply additional dressing and keep wearing your coat for many years to come.
Things You’ll Need
-
-
- Sponge
- Cold water
- Clothesline
- Barbour thornproof dressing
- Pan
- Tongs
- Plate
- Blow dryer
-
Cleaning
- Wet a sponge with cold water, and wring it out so it remains damp.
- Wipe the inside and outside of a Barbour quilted coat gently to remove any dirt or debris from the coat.
To remove heavy debris or dirt, soak the coat first in a bathtub of cold water, and then sponge off the interior and exterior.
- Hang your coat on a clothesline outside and let it dry naturally.
Waxing
- Open and place a tin of Barbour thornproof dressing in a pot on the stove. Add water to below to top of the tin, and heat the water on medium high until the dressing softens. Remove the tin from the pot with tongs and place it on a plate.
- Dip a sponge into the dressing and rub it on the exterior of your coat. Work the dressing into the fabric, making sure to cover seams and creases.
- Plug a blow dryer into an electrical receptacle, and turn it on high heat. Dry the coat thoroughly with the blow dryer on all exterior surfaces to set the dressing.
- Hang your coat on a clothes hanger overnight in a warm area.
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CARING FOR WAX JACKETS
Wax Cotton Care Instructions
Waxed cotton, or oilskin, is a unique high-performance fabric. It is made by weaving 2-ply cotton yarn into a strong canvas fabric, which is then treated with our proprietary mixture of micro and technical waxes. This oil/wax treatment creates a highly resistant wind and water barrier, while maintaining the breathability of the cotton.
The proper care and treatment of your waxed cotton garment will ensure its longevity. When you are not wearing your garment, always be sure to hang it in a well-ventilated area. Dried mud, sand, grit and dirt should be removed as soon as possible, as it will have an abrasive effect on the waxed cotton. It is also important to reproof your Classic or Lightweight waxed cotton garment as needed.
CLASSIC AND LIGHTWEIGHT WAX COTTON
Cleaning
Regular cleaning not only enhances the appearance of your garment but removes dust and dirt that can cause premature wear. Regular cleaning also prevents dirt build-up from becoming irremovable stains.
– REMOVE dried mud, sand and grit as soon as possible especially along inner sleeve seams, as these are abrasive.
– HOSE OFF or SPONGE WIPE with cold water only. If dirt is ground in, gently brush it off with a soft bristled brush and then rinse.
– HANG TO DRY naturally and completely for at least 24 hours in a dry, well-ventilated area.
– REPROOF the entire garment after cleaning.
DO NOT dry clean • DO NOT machine wash • DO NOT tumble dry (no dryer) • DO NOT use soap or detergent of any kind • DO NOT use solvents or bleach • DO NOT iron or starch • DO NOT force dry or expose to a direct flame • DO NOT expose to direct sunlight for a long period of time (such as rear car window).
Doing any of these will damage or remove the proofing and may void the garment’s warranty.
Reproofing
Most waxed cotton garments will need regular reproofing within a year if worn frequently, or even sooner if you notice that the coat is drying out due to exposure to the elements. Uneven, shiny or dry areas, or where moisture no longer beads, is a good indicator to reproof those specific areas. It is not necessary to reproof the entire garment unless it has been washed.
By reproofing your waxed cotton jacket, you can bring back its original water-resistant finish. On top of prolonging the life of your jacket, reproofing will also revive the fabric’s color and help to prevent holes from forming along the seams of your jacket. Garments can be brought to “as new” condition with an easy application of Australian Outback Authentic Dry Feel Reproofing Cream.
– Be sure that the garment is CLEAN and DRY. Lay it on a flat surface and apply the cream sparingly with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth.
– Try using a hair dryer to WARM the cream on the cloth and on the garment as you apply it. This will make the application easier and more uniform.
– SPREAD CREAM EVENLY, working it into the fabric in a circular motion. DO NOT coat the surface too thickly or it will not be able to absorb it all. Seams and worn areas will require more cream.
– WIPE OFF EXCESS cream and hang garment to dry overnight in a well-ventilated area.
– The next day, spread out any excess oil not absorbed. Apply more cream to areas that still appear shinny or dry.
Special Notes
Avoid contact between waxed cotton and pale-colored leather car seats. As a precaution only, we recommend that you do not wear garments on seats for the first couple of weeks after purchase or after reproofing. Once the natural weathering process begins, the garment will feel dryer and softer and it will then be safe to resume normal use.
Since 1894, Barbour has been making high-quality heavy-duty jackets to help shield boat workers from the worst of the elements. Part of the way that it helps shield its wearer is through a thin wax coating on the jacket. However, this coating doesn’t stay on permanently. Indeed, you’ll have to reproof the jacket every year to keep its maximum effectiveness. Fortunately, the process isn’t that tough.
Instructions
Things You’ll Need
-
-
- Barbour waxed jacket
- Barbour wax
- Pot
- Hairdryer
- Sponge
- Cloth
-
- ▪ Newspaper
Wipe down the outside of the jacket using a sponge and cold water. Do not use warm water nor try to put it in the washer and dryer, as that will permanently damage the jacket. - Open the top of the can of wax, and put it into a pot full of boiling water. Do not let the water touch the wax, but simply place the can in the water in order to melt the wax inside it.
- Dab the wax onto the jacket in small and controlled amounts using a thin piece of cloth such as a dish rag or an old T-shirt. Make sure to take care of creases, cuffs and seams on the jacket. Avoid getting wax on any part that wasn’t originally waxed, such as the collar or the jacket’s lining.
- Hang your jacket on a hanger. Put newspaper underneath it. Now, blow dry all over the jacket. This will melt away the excess wax and give the jacket an all-new sheen. The newspaper will catch the excess wax and keep it from making too much of a mess. Leave it for a day to let it set.
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Cleaning Smooth Leather Shoes from Robert Smart Menswear in York
Remove dirt by cleaning with a leather cleaner made specifically for smooth leathers. You can use saddle soap or a smooth leather shoe cleaner.
Shoe cleaners come in gels, foams, sprays, liquids and creams. Many leather cleaners come with an applicator top, or you can use a soft shoe brush to aid in removing dirt from the surface of the shoe. This will also help to remove dirt from any cracks in the shoes.
After cleaning, let the shoes dry for a few minutes and begin shining the shoes with a soft cotton cloth – either a shoe shine cloth, or even an old t-shirt, as long as it’s soft and made of cotton.
Conditioning Leather Shoes
Conditioning your leather shoes will help soften and moisturize the leather, and protect it from drying out and cracking. Certain types of leather, and shoes worn in dryer climates might need to be conditioned more often.
Some shoe cleaning products will clean and condition your shoes, but if you want your shoes to get the full treatment, or used a product specifically for cleaning, the next step is to condition your smooth leather shoes.
Of course, you’ll want a conditioner made for the specific type of shoe you’re working on. Also, look for a natural conditioner that is absorbed into the material of the shoe, as opposed to a synthetic conditioner that sits on top of the surface.
Rub small amounts of conditioner into the shoe, until the entire shoe has been covered with conditioner. After a couple of minutes, wipe any remaining conditioner off of the shoes, as the leather will only absorb what it can.
Most of the products you’ll use for leather shoe care can be found at general stores, shoe stores and shoe repair shops. If you are nervous about working on your own shoes, of course, any shoe repair shop will be happy to clean, polish and condition your shoes for a price.
To do a full and thorough session of leather shoe care, you’ll want the following items. Be sure the products you buy are recommended for smooth leather shoes.
• Newspapers
• Gloves
• Soft Cotton Cloths or Rags
• Soft Shoe Brush (optional)
• Smooth Leather Shoe Cleaner
• Leather Conditioner for Smooth Leather Shoes
• Shoe Polish, or a Shoe Polish Alternative
• Leather Protectant (Waterproofing Product)
The following pages will discuss these items in more detail, but it is most important that you follow the instructions that come with the products you buy, and be certain to only use products designed specifically for the materials of your shoes. i.e. Do not use these instructions or a product made for smooth leather to clean suede shoes!
Before you begin, you’ll want to make sure to you’re prepared for the shoe care process. Work on top of newspaper, wear gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area. These precautions are essential, as many shoe care products contain toxic chemicals that can be very harmful – more information on this in the shoe polish section of this article.
Cleaning Smooth Leather Shoes
Remove dirt by cleaning with a leather cleaner made specifically for smooth leathers. You can use saddle soap or a smooth leather shoe cleaner.
Shoe cleaners come in gels, foams, sprays, liquids and creams. Many leather cleaners come with an applicator top, or you can use a soft shoe brush to aid in removing dirt from the surface of the shoe. This will also help to remove dirt from any cracks in the shoes.
After cleaning, let the shoes dry for a few minutes and begin shining the shoes with a soft cotton cloth – either a shoe shine cloth, or even an old t-shirt, as long as it’s soft and made of cotton.
Conditioning Leather Shoes
Conditioning your leather shoes will help soften and moisturize the leather, and protect it from drying out and cracking. Certain types of leather, and shoes worn in dryer climates might need to be conditioned more often.
Some shoe cleaning products will clean and condition your shoes, but if you want your shoes to get the full treatment, or used a product specifically for cleaning, the next step is to condition your smooth leather shoes.
Of course, you’ll want a conditioner made for the specific type of shoe you’re working on. Also, look for a natural conditioner that is absorbed into the material of the shoe, as opposed to a synthetic conditioner that sits on top of the surface.
Rub small amounts of conditioner into the shoe, until the entire shoe has been covered with conditioner. After a couple of minutes, wipe any remaining conditioner off of the shoes, as the leather will only absorb what it can.
As I was looking for certain shoe polish products, I was surprised to find warnings that shoe polish contained toxic chemicals and could actually be considered very dangerous.
While I know most of us have had shoe polish around the house for years, probably without any problems, the warnings I found were of enough concern to me that I wanted to share the information with all of you. Below is more information about the toxicity of certain shoe polishes, as well as alternative and traditional polishing instructions.
Toxicity of Shoe Polish
Certain shoe polishes contain toxic chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin and or inhaled (read more at the epa web site).
It is essential that if you use shoe polish, you wear gloves when doing so, do not drink alcohol while polishing shoes (it can increase the effects of certain chemicals), and keep all shoe polish out of reach of children and animal companions.
If used, shoe polish should be used in a well-ventilated area, and all of the product shoud be used, with any residual being discarded or given to someone who will use it.
When disposed, shoe polish needs to be handled as a hazardous househould substance. Rags or clothes used that come in contact with the shoe polish should also be immediately discarded.
While some shoe polished claim to be non-toxic, most do not list their ingredients, so it is impossible to know that they are truly free of dangerous chemicals. While it is better to avoid shoe polish if possible, if this is not practical for you, and you do feel the need to buy commercial shoe polish – please use the necessary precautions.
Alternatives to Using Traditional Shoe Polish
Take your shoes to a shoe repair shop to have them cleaned and polished for you.
Rub your smooth leather shoes (not suede or nubuck) with the inside of a banana peel (test this method first on a small spot of the shoe), then buff and shine with a soft cloth or rag.
Olive oil or walnut oil works for smooth leather as well. Work a small amount into shoe, and polish with a soft cotton cloth. Again, try this method in an inconspicous spot before using the oil on the entire shoe.
Polishing Your Leather Sh oes with Traditional Shoe Polish
Shoe polishes are available in liquid, cream or paste. Liquid shoe polish dries quickly, but is not readily available in a lot of colors and does not last as long as the other options. Shoe polish paste is the longest lasting, but is very messy and slow to work with. Shoe polish cream is a great compromise, and is available in lots of colors.
Of course you’ll need to get the appropriate color of polish for you shoes. You can find a variety of shoe polishes at shoe stores, shoe repair shops and supermarkets, although you won’t find a large variety of colors at the latter. There are also several places on the web where you can find shoe polish. Apply the polish to a small, less conspicous area of the shoe to test and be sure the color is right.
Rub the polish into the shoe with a soft cloth, and allow it to dry thoroughly.
After the shoe polish is dry, shine your shoes by buffing them with a soft cloth or brush made specifically for shining shoes.
Weatherproofing your leather shoes will help to protect them from water and other elements that can ruin the finish and shorten the life of your shoes.
The Right Protectant for Your Shoes
Different weatherproofing products serve different purposes, so you should choose wisely. For example, if it is essential that your shoes are waterproof because you spend a lot of time in wet or messy conditions, and a pretty finish is not as is important, a beeswax product would be a better choice than a protective spray.
Beeswax products form a protective layer over the surface of the shoe or boot instead of being absorbed into the leather. This provides a better barrier against water, but the additional layers can alter the appearance of the shoes.
If the appearance of the shoe or boot is of more importance than the weatherproofing properties, a spray protectant should do the trick. By providing a breathable barrier against mild to moderate wet conditions and dirt, this type of weatherproofing product is virtually invisible on your shoes or boots.
There are a large variety of waterproofing products including those for smooth leather, suede or nubuck.
Additional Tips for Leather Shoe Care
If your leather shoes have a lot of old polish buildup, you may want to use a pre-cleaner.
- Don’t try to use shoe polish to change the color of your shoes. If you need your shoe color changed, consult a shoe repair shop.
- Remove any laces before beginning. Laces can be cleaned separately or replaced if they are in really bad shape.
- The next time you buy a pair of leather shoes, condition them before ever wearing them. This will help insure that your shoes are best protected from the start, and will save time on future cleanings.
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Stetson at Smart Country York
Smart Country in York carry a wide range of Stetson Hats and flat caps.
Stetsons at Smart Country York are the brand of hat manufactured by the John B. Stetson Company of St. Joseph, Missouri.Stetson eventually became the world’s largest hat maker, producing over 3.3 million hats a year in a factory spread over 9 acres (36,000 m2). Today Stetson remains a family-owned concern. In addition to its hats, Stetson is also well known for its colognes and a range of other products evoking the historic American West. Stetson University and Stetson University College of Law in Florida were named after John B. Stetson in 1899 for his contributions to the school.
In the 19th century and first half of the 20th century, a hat was an indispensable item in every man’s wardrobe. Stetson at Smart Country York focused on expensive, high-quality hats that represented both a real investment for the working cowboy and statement of success for the city dweller.
Early on, Stetson hats at Smart Country York became associated with legends of the West, including “Buffalo Bill” Cody, Calamity Jane, Will Rogers, and Annie Oakley. It is said that George Custer rode into the Battle of Little Big Horn wearing a Stetson. Later on, Western movie cowboys were quick to adopt the Stetson; many were drawn to the largest most flamboyant styles available.
Texans were known for their preference for the “Ten Gallon” model, possibly so named for its enormous crown which at least appeared to be able to hold ten gallons were it to be dipped into a stream and used as a pail. An early Stetson advertising image, a painting of a cowboy dipping his hat into a stream to provide water for his horse symbolized the Cowboy hat as an essential part of a stockman’s gear and was later featured inside every western style hat.
According to Win Blevins’ Dictionary of the American West, the term “ten-gallon” has nothing to do with the hat’s liquid capacity, but derives from the Spanish word galón (braid), ten indicating the number of braids used as a hat band.
Stetson at Smart Country York also produced women’s hats, operating a millinery department from the 1930s to 1950s. Hat sales suffered during the Depression years, but Stetsons remained ubiquitous until Americans’ embrace of headwear faded after WWII. At its peak Stetson had operations in Australia, Brazil, Columbia, Finland, Guatemala, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa and West Germany.
Stetson at Smart Country York changed its business strategy in the early 1970s, closing its Philadelphia factory in 1971 and continuing in the hat business through licensing arrangements with a number of manufacturers.
Popular demand for western style hats spiked during the 1980s after the success of Indiana Jones and Urban Cowboy movies. Both Western and Dress hats continue to be important men’s accessories