Everything is rose-tinted with a silver-lining for The Optimist, who champions a positive outlook and cheery disposition. The Optimist looks forward, not back. The future is always an unwritten story, full of exciting possibilities and adventures just waiting to be turned into reality by an open heart and wilful mind.

NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT

Carpe Diem (seize the day) is The Optimist’s mantra, not wanting to waste a precious minute of time that could be spent having fulfilling and uplifting experiences. Bremont’s ALT1-C timepiece is the perfect wristwatch for The Optimist, combining precision timekeeping with robust engineering – scratch resistant crystal and caseback and water resistant to 100 metres – and a cheery cream coloured dial. This is a smart looking watch that can withstand a wide range of adventures and activities.

PACK IT UP, PACK IT IN

The Optimist has had their suitcase packed and ready to go ever since the lockdown easing was announced. Whether it’s a staycation or an overseas excursion, nothing brings them more joy than heading off to explore new places. Smythson’s Panama Luggage Tag in summery Eau De Nil makes The Optimist’s luggage easy to locate and more likely to find its way back to them should it get lost at any point.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

This slimline leather card holder from Church’s has space for six cards and a coin pocket for a bit of loose change. Carrying around only the essentials enhances The Optimist’s happy-go-lucky, light-hearted and carefree approach to life.

ON THE GO

Keeping connected is integral to The Optimist who likes to stay agile and make plans on-the-go, not to mention inviting friends to get involved in their latest escapade. If The Optimist did break their phone, it wouldn’t be the end of the world – they’d find a way to see the funny or positive side to it, of course – but if they can prevent that from happening with a hard phone case like this one from Montblanc, then protecting their tech is worth spending some money on, in their opinion.

SUNNY DISPOSITION

The sun is always shining on The Optimist, making a stylish pair of shades a must-have accessory. Tom Davies Bespoke Opticians offer a wide range of frames and lenses, including prescription sunglasses, with boutique staff experts at advising on the best colours and shapes to enhance an individual’s facial features.

SENTIMENTAL VALUES

While it’s true that The Optimist doesn’t dwell on the past, that doesn’t mean they don’t cherish making and documenting all the special moments they experience. Smythson’s ‘Travels and Experiences’ notebook is the perfect journal for The Optimist, allowing them to keep a note of the many joyful moments and special people they meet, either on a special trip or as they go about their daily adventures.

SNAP HAPPY

Likewise, a camera is The Optimists trusted companion for capturing the moment so they can relive it again any time they need a little reminder of all the amazing life experiences they’ve had. Leica’s D-Lux 7 camera is compact enough to carry around easily and can capture 4K video as well as remarkable resolution stills with its 17-megapixed, 4/3 sensor.

Look out for more personality-inspired product selections on The Royal Exchange journal

The Royal Exchange celebrates its 450th anniversary this year. We look forward to welcoming you for a considered shopping and dining experience in spectacular and historic surroundings. Please visit our boutiques page for regular updates on our retailers’ opening information and hours, as well as details about virtual appointments and click and collect services.

Visit our heritage page to learn more about the history of The Royal Exchange, and keep an eye on our specially created 450 Years site, journal and Instagram for more fascinating facts and insights about The Royal Exchange’s past and present as we commemorate this special milestone throughout the year.