Irish singer-songwriter, Band Aid founder, former Boomtown Rat and political activist Bob Geldof was a surprise visitor to Katoomba's latest shop last week, popping in to check out the fashion at Skin Deep Original.
The owners, Lou and Michael Constantinou, have operated Skin Deep in Elizabeth Street, Sydney, for 35 years. When they moved to the Mountains they decided to help revitalise the local shopping strip.
"I think Katoomba needs people to believe in it again," Mrs Constantinou said. "We moved up here three years ago and we would like to make it work here," she said.
"So far, the support of the locals has been amazing. Everyone seems thrilled to have something like this here in Katoomba."
The shop sells an eclectic collection of men's and women's fashion: silk and chiffon caftans, rockabilly clothes, cashmere merino knitwear, screenprinted T-shirts, overcoats, ties, hats and handbags.
They also do tailor-made suits and Mrs Constantinou was delighted to have already taken her first order.
She was also as pleased as punch when Mr Geldof called in on opening day. When she asked what he was doing in Katoomba, his friend said "shopping", Mrs Constantinou said. "He didn't buy anything but said the store was fantastic and wished us all the best."
Skin Deep Original doesn't yet have a sign but it's next to the ANZ Bank at the top of the hill on Katoomba Street.
