In light of Q Magazine labelling Norwich as 'unfashionable', Amy Newbery offers 10 reasons as to why that's completely untrue.
1. The students
With a university located close to the city, Norwich is often filled with vibrant and fashionably clothed students. Ranging from simple but carefully pieced together outfits to Gucci slippers, you can hardly say that the people of Norwich are unfashionable. Clothes showcase individuality and personality which is one of the most important aspects for students.
2. Music concerts
Norwich is often a tour stop for many bands. Big names such as Ed Sheeran, Scouting for Girls, Busted and Little Mix have performed in Norwich, with artists like Jessie J set to perform in the future. It's impossible to say Norwich is unfashionable when the city is visited by so many trending and current artists.
3. Theatre
There is always something showing at Norwich Theatre Royal for audiences of all ages and dispositions. Just recently, mentalist and illusionist Derren Brown performed at the theatre here to high praise and excellent reviews. Without a doubt, you can always find a show that you'll enjoy at the theatre in Norwich.
4. ofo bikes
These rental bikes have recently been introduced to Norwich much to the delight of everyone. ofo bikes can be used by anyone through the official app that unlocks and locates nearby bikes. Founded in Beijing, the ofo company now has billions of users locally and overseas. The fact that the bikes have made their way to Norwich just proves that the city is on top of trends.
5. The nightlife
Drinking – arguably one of the biggest aspects of being a student. Of course, I'm not saying all students must drink but the majority do. It's a method of relaxation and having fun. Norwich hosts many clubs, bars and pubs which makes it a popular destination for those living in neighbouring towns.
6. Art galleries
Norwich houses many art galleries, including Norwich Arts Centre, Castle Find Arts, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, just to name a few of them. Nothing screams 'fashionable' more than art and art galleries which Norwich is filled with. Even street art is permissible by the city council through the correct procedures.
7. Food
One of the reasons I'm happy to be in Norwich is the diversity of food and the authenticity of it. For example, Baby Buddha Chinese Teahouse serves food and drinks that you would find in Hong Kong so it was a celebratory moment for me – it was almost like being back at home. In a world where dietary restrictions must be accommodated for, Norwich offers several vegan and vegetarian restaurants such as Wild Thyme Vegetarian Café, Namaste India, Loving Hut, etc. This just shows that Norwich is forward-thinking and keeps up with what's current in the world aka fashionable.
8. Shops
Norwich has a mix of traditional and trendy shops which makes it an exciting place to shop in. There's very little, if not nothing, that I couldn't purchase in Norwich. Just walking around the city, looking at all the shops, could constitute as a day out. From the big department stores to the market place, Norwich offers a fantastic range of shops that can be enjoyed by anyone.
9. The diversity
I was pleasantly greeted by a diversity of people when I first came to Norwich. Coming from Hong Kong (a formidable multi-cultural hotspot), I wasn't expecting such diversity, let alone acceptance. I'm not saying racism doesn't exist here because it does, but in my experience, the majority of people have been nothing but lovely. I've met some great friends of all different nationalities in Norwich which I might have not met in Hong Kong.
10. Traditional doesn't mean unfashionable
Whilst it's true that 'fashionable' is typically defined as 'current' or 'modern', it's not the exact opposite of 'traditional'. You can still be fashionable but appreciate the traditional aspects of Norwich. Although the city has a rich history and is what you could define as 'traditional' to an extent, it's not unfashionable. Norwich is a city full of vibrancy and uniqueness that is appreciated by both tourists and locals (just not Q Magazine I guess).
Why else do you think Norwich should be called fashionable? Let us know in the comments below or write to us at edpletters@archant.co.uk
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