If unsuspecting Londonites walked into The Candy Store expecting to find M&Ms and lollipops, what they’d end up finding is just as sweet-- as this new Birmingham-based streetwear shop stocks staple goodies from the The Hundreds and Mishka to Kid Robot. Founder Ian Cumberbatch set up the boutique in response to a severe lack of the clothing genre in Birmingham and to fulfill his vision of providing a bridge to that stylistic gap in his own hometown. In just eleven months since opening, The Candy Store has already established itself as one of Northern England’s finest purveyors of streetwear gear. Just in time for their one-year-anniversary celebration, psychoPEDIA had a chat with Ian to find out more about his shop and style:

Where did you get the name for the shop?
From where I grew up, to where I am now, I’d say life is a lil’ sweeter. A bit of a cliché, I know. Also, when you go shopping for streetwear in Hong Kong, you’re just like a kid in a candy store!

What do you think of the current streetwear scene?
I hate and love the scene. I love the fact brands are expanding themselves with cut-and-sew garments, accessories, and footwear. But I hate the explosion of shit t-shirts claiming limited-edition status, when really they’re only limited edition because they have a lack of funds and originality. They’re basically in it to make a quick buck.

What are your favorite brands?
The Hundreds are killing it with whatever they do, from tees to footwear. 10 Deep are up-front with their bold tee designs. Their cut and sewn game is picking up fast, so keep an eye out as it grows. Trapstar are holding it strong for the UK scene – they’ve got the game locked out here man! Award Tour is a small but fast growing US brand I love. They don’t get the recognition for their shit, but they’re ahead of the game with their season concepts. Hellz Bellz for me is the strongest girls brand out. Everything from their tees to denim is on point! The girls in Birmingham are just a lil’ slower than the London bunch to realize how hot the brand is.

Why do you think your shop has been so successful?
Basically, our shit tastes better! For real, any love is welcome and returned even more. We support any local streetwear boutique, because we all need to support each other in this game. At the dnd of the day, it helps to grow streetwear in the UK. That’s one thing we could learn from the States.

Favorite item of clothing that you own and why?
My woman’s edition Jordan Spikes. I even had Skateboard P himself drooling over them.

Your biggest selling brands?
The biggest sellers for the past three seasons has to plaid shirts. No matter what brand, they fly out! The Hundreds, 10 Deep, or Trapstar, that shit is gone first.

Which brand used to be good but is now kind of wack?
Carhartt. Maybe it’s because I haven’t seen too much of it around recently. Another would have to be Addict. Their over use of one particular print has bored me a little - even though the guys down there are cool and I have no beef with them. This answer is bound to get me in some bother…

What’s next for the shop?
Branding myself, a move to Hong Kong, and my own Diner!

~Donald Crunk @ Styleslut