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PERFECT FIT SOLECT specialises in quality shoe brands that stand on their own two feet. WO R DS N I CK Y A DAM S | PH OTOS JA H L MAR S H ALL + S U PPLI E D
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ight, bright and breezy, with an expanse of white space and sleek seating areas, walking into SOLECT at Tauranga Crossing, there was a moment when I wondered if I’d just come in because it looks so darn inviting. Then I glanced around and, yep, I knew exactly what had brought me through the doors. I love a relaxed shopping experience, and low-level music is a great first step. Good, knowledgeable customer service is a solid second. Then, of course, there’s the shoes themselves. Artfully displayed on minimalist-style shelving, it’s all about the footwear. With a range that, in the words of brand manager Kat Farron, cleverly covers everything from “boots to Birkenstocks, sneakers to slippers.” Catering for men and women, the range has been carefully curated. Here it is most definitely a case of less is more, so rather than sending your brain into anxious overdrive, the premium brands that have made it on to the shelves have done so because of their proven quality, performance and heritage. SOLECT has the biggest range of Birkenstock shoes in the Bay, and it’s one their highest-selling brands. The store prides itself on listening to its customer, so among the instantly recognisable classics sit some exciting additions. The Buffalo range is 100 per cent vegan, with some of the boots even gaining the PETA tick of approval. While the puffy cloud soles and bouncy vibe is synonymous with the Spice Girls in the 90s, the combination of reimagined retro cool and super ethical has earned these boots and sneakers a space up there with the Dr Martens, Vans and Timberlands. Another drawcard is the extension of the Emu Australia range. While the uber Instagram-able sheepskin slippers are a firm favourite, this season the Emu cosy minis and leather ankle boots have been brought in to give the customers even more choice. As someone who loves to wear sheepskin boots all year round, I’m a pretty good road tester – and it’s fair to say I’m a big fan of this brand for its combination of price and durability. Snuggly boots aside, the season ahead will see Blundstones styled with flowing dresses, Dr Martens remaining the unisex wardrobe must-have, and Birkenstocks, street shoes and sneakers from the likes of ASICS, the cool, comfortable backstop. Whether for trends or staples, SOLECT has all bases covered. SOLECT.NZ
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