Boutique Magazine November 2022

EDITOR

Gemma Ward gemma@bpmedialtd.co.uk

PRINT AND ONLINE SALES

Julie Neill – julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk

Tel 01795 515288

Tel 07960797383

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Jack Witcomb – jack@bpmedialtd.co.uk

CREDIT CONTROL

Jilly Barker - Jilly@bpmedialtd.co.uk

PUBLISHERS

Julie

Neill,

Beccy Wells

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Julie Neill

© 2022 Boutique Professional Media Ltd, Office 2, The Old Stable Block, Crescent Road, Faversham, Kent ME13 7GU. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical or physical – without express prior permission and written consent of the publisher. Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and addressed envelope. Manuscripts should be type written. No responsibility can be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographic or artistic, belongs to Boutique Professional Media. The publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the Publisher. The Publisher cannot accept liability for any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

A starry night

We’re still on cloud nine after the most magical evening crowning

the winners of th is year’s Boutique Star Awards! After all the uncertainty over the past few years, it was just wonderful to get so many amazing indie owners and brands together in one room to celebrate our industry.

Reading all your entries over the past few months and seeing how you’ve overcome the many challenges retailers have been faced with since the start of the pandemic was truly inspirational. It was an emotional experience for the Boutique team to witness the sheer joy of all the winners (and finalists) at the awards ceremony.

We’d like to thank every single person who entered this year’s competition and those who joined us for our celebration at The May Fair Hotel. We’d like to congratulate all the winners as well as every brand and boutique that made it onto the shortlist this year - the standard was extremely high, so this is an amazing achievement in its own right. We hope you will share your Boutique Star Awards Winner or Finalist status with immense pride.

We’re so grateful to the fantastic judging panel - Anne Wright, Andrew Goodacre, Wizz Selvey and Sally Dawes - who took time out of their busy schedules to help

us decide the ultimate winners. And of course we thank our award sponsors City Goddess, ELISA, Naeco and Just Around the Corner (JATC) because hosting the event simply wouldn’t have been possible without them. They are leading the way in being true small business champions and we’re so grateful for their support. This issue includes a full round-up of the awards and winners’ party. So, t o find out who won what , turn to our six-page special starting on page 12 . And if you couldn’t make it to our event this year, don’t worry - we’ll be doing it all again in 2023!

Gemma Ward, Editor Follow us on Instagram @boutique.magazine

Fashion Fix

Boutique Star Awards 2022 winners crowned at glamorous ceremony in Mayfair

Biscuit Clothing and Living, The Pantry Underwear and Sassy and Boo are among the winners of this year’s Boutique Star Awards , announced at a glitzy ceremony in Central London on Tuesday 8 November.

Around 150 guests attended the celebratory winners’ party at The May Fair Hotel. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception inside the hotel’s vaulted Atrium followed by a three-course feast, awards ceremony and afterparty in its mirrored Danziger Suite.

Host Hayley Sparkes spoke about the impact the past few years have had on the industry before congratulating all the shortlisted indies and brands for reaching the final stage of the competition. Boutique magazine publisher Julie

Neill also took to the stage to thank award sponsors City Goddess, ELISA, Just Around the Corner (JATC) and Naeco as well as the attendees for supporting the event.

This year’s winners included Biscuit Clothing and Living for Womenswear Retailer of the Year , The Pantry Underwear for Independent Group of the Year and Sassy and Boo for Creative VM Independent of the Year . Moo and Boom was also crowned New Independent of the Year sponsored by City Goddess while Chloe James Lifestyle took home the award for Social Media Strategy of the Year sponsored by ELISA. Supplier awards meanwhile went to From My Mother’s Garden for British Brand of the Year sponsored by JATC

and Scream Pretty for Accessories/ Footwear Brand of the Year . Three special awards were also presented to Pomodoro for Outstanding Business, Carol Capener for Lifetime Achievement and Darcy Mayo for Newcomer sponsored by Naeco (full winners’ list on page 16).

The winners were selected by an esteemed judging panel of industry insiders including Young Ideas owner Anne Wright, Wizz and Co founder Wizz Selvey, Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre, fashion agency founder Sally Dawes and Boutique magazine editor Gemma Ward.

Full coverage starting from page 12; follow @boutiquemag on Twitter and @boutique.magazine on Instagram as well as the hashtag #boutiquestarawards for Boutique Star Awards updates.

2022 BOUTIQUE STAR AWARDS WINNERS

Small Business Saturday unveils free online support package

Small Business Saturday has unveiled a major programme of free online support to help SMEs navigate the cost of living crisis.

Business owners can access over 20 free digital workshops delivered by leading experts throughout November as well as free online coaching sessions. There will also be opportunities for entrepreneurs to share their stories and network on Small Business Saturday’s social media channels.

“Small Business Saturday has always been about supporting and celebrating the UK’s fantastic entrepreneurs,” says director

Taking place on Saturday 3 December, this year marks Small Business Saturday’s 10year anniversary in the UK with principal supporter American Express.

Sign up for the free workshops via smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

Bira urges Rishi Sunak

Pure London launches thoughtprovoking podcast series

Pure London has launched an exclusive podcast series - available to stream from its website ( purelondon.co.uk ) - featuring inspiring content and retail advice from fashion industry titans.

Echoing the ethos of Pure London’s live event, the Fashion Questions series is hosted by content editor Lina Vaz who speaks to industry insiders

on hot topics such as sustainability, inclusivity and the future of retail.

Episodes available to stream now include How to communicate your sustainability credentials with Philip Mak, Stella McCartney’s global head of content and editorial, and When to hire a PR agency with MGC agency co-founders Gabriella Nassif and Miguel Arquero.

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is urging prime minister Rishi Sunak to focus on stabilising the financial market following a turbulent period for the economy.

With retailers now in the golden quarter of trade, Bira insiders say the government needs to focus on creating certainty among consumers, which would help thousands of small businesses.

Jeff Moody, commercial director at Bira, comments: “We welcome the news that Rishi Sunak is prime minister and we hope this ends the period of uncertainty for business and the country as a whole.

“Anything that will stabilise financial markets and improve consumer confidence to help the high street in such a vital trading period is key.

“We now ask for the prime minister and his cabinet to concentrate on reducing the cost burden for businesses with prompt support on energy and tax. Also, in the long term, by committing to reducing business rates for bricksand-mortar retailers to prevent further closures.”

Retail industry insiders are eagerly awaiting chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s fiscal statement on 17 November, which is expected to include tax increases and spending cuts.

Pure London organiser Hyve Group says the series is part of its ongoing commitment to create free content for retailers and brands that inspires conversation and change.

The next edition of Pure London takes place at Olympia from 1214 February 2023. To register visit purelondon.co.uk.

Michelle Ovens CBE. “This package of support is intended to give small firms a major boost as they face a barrage of challenges from all angles this winter.”

PURE LONDON

SAMANTHA BORGES ON UNSPLASH

to restore consumer confidence

Celtic and Co opens Christmas pop-up shop in Shrewsbury

Following the success of its instore partnership with John Lewis, independent lifestyle brand Celtic and Co has opened a pop-up shop in Shrewsbury. The standalone store is operating over the festive period, offering an edited selection of its sustainable womenswear, menswear and accessories.

Customers who spend over £50 at the pop-up will also receive a free branded tote bag.

Celtic and Co operates its own retail shop at its Cornwall-based headquarters. Last year it also

opened an in-store space inside John Lewis in Cambridge followed by Peter Jones on London’s Sloane Square in 2022.

Managing director Zoe Bray comments: “We were offered the opportunity to have a space in Shrewsbury town centre and jumped at the chance.

“Our shop in Cornwall and retail spaces within John Lewis have performed well this year, and this is an exciting opportunity to expand our high street presence in other parts of the country.

The Pantry opens third standalone store in Cambridge city centre

Boutique Star Awards winner The Pantry has opened its third store in the heart of Cambridge. The new venture is the indie group’s second dual-concept space following the success of its merged underwear and bridalwear store in Saffron Walden.

Shoppers receive free friendly expert bra fittings (also available virtually) alongside a range of carefully selected underwear and lingerie. Brides can also find their dream wedding dress from the store’s edit, which now includes the retailer’s recently launched in-house collection.

Founder Eloise Rigby, originally from Cambridge, opened the first The Pantry Underwear in Islington’s Camden Passage in 2016. A concession

inside Liberty London quickly followed – closing in 2020 – as well as its first dual-concept shop in Saffron Walden and original store move to Islington’s Upper Street last year.

The Pantry Underwear and The Pantry Bridalwear in Cambridge is located in a prime position on the city’s Market Hill among mainstream retailers such as Whistles, Space NK and Sweaty Betty. Eloise says her aim is to change people’s perception of buying underwear: “There’s a culture in the UK that underwear independents are expensive and inaccessible,” she says. “We offer a friendly experience with highly trained staff and options to suit a variety of budgets.”

Boutique barometer

These figures represent findings from a cross section of independent online and bricks-and-mortar retailers around the UK. Total stock management and EPoS provider Top to Toe has compiled this industry index to offer Boutique readers an insight into what’s happening on the high street and online. Tel: 0203 376 5888 E: info@toptotoe.com Toptotoe.com

Reach for the stars

ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THIS MONTH’S GLITTERING BOUTIQUE STAR AWARDS WINNERS’ PARTY

PARTY PEOPLE

Over 130 industry insiders converged at London’s May Fair Hotel earlier this month for the Boutique Star Awards 2022 winners’ party. Sponsored by City Goddess, ELISA, Just Around the Corner (JATC) and Naeco, guests sipped Prosecco and nibbled canapés in the hotel’s vaulted Atrium before moving into its grand Danziger suite for a three-course feast. The menu included Prosciutto and melon with figs and artichokes, roasted chicken with wild rice and broccoli followed by a trio of teeny desserts. The glamorous Hayley Sparkes hosted the event and crowned the winners of 14 different categories. Turn to page 14 to find out who made the shortlist…

THE AFTERPARTY

HYVE

STICK AND RIBBON

DJV BOUTIQUE

WHEN: Tuesday 8 November WHERE: The May Fair Hotel, London WHAT: A celebratory party for the finalists and winners of the Boutique Star Awards 2022 WHO: Around 130 industry insiders including leading fashion independents, agents, distributors, brands and their teams.

DRESSED BY DEE

JOANNA EDWARDS AND JIANHUI LONDON

NAECO

VELVET LADIESWEAR

IRIS AND VIOLET

BOUTIQUE

RETAILERS

Womenswear

NOMINATIONS

BOUTIQUE STAR AWARDS

JUDGING PANEL

OH, WHAT A NIGHT!

It was an evening of celebrations for the retailers and brands attending this year’s Boutique Star Awards winners’ party. After launching in 2019, the competition had to take a brief hiatus until pandemic restrictions lifted. But it was worth the wait. This year’s event was bigger and better than ever with even more categories, trophies, finalists and winners! Boutique magazine publisher Julie Neill kick-started the celebrations by asking attendees to raise their glasses to the entire industry. And following the announcement of the ultimate winners, the party continued until late into the evening as guests let their hair down and hit the dance floor. If you weren’t there to join us and feel like you missed out, you most definitely did! But don’t worry as we’ll be back next year to do it all over again…

Lifetime Achievement Carol Capener

Newcomer sponsored by Naeco Darcy Mayo, Olivia Darcy Outstanding Business Pomodoro

Anne Wright, CEO, Young Ideas Andrew Goodacre, CEO, Bira Gemma Ward, editor, Boutique magazine Sally Dawes, founder, Sally Dawes Agency Wizz Selvey, retail trends expert and founder, Wizz and Co

With special thanks to our sponsors:

POMODORO

OLIVIA DARCY

CAROL CAPENER

WIZZ SELVEY AND SALLY DAWES

Feeling blue

Layer Capri London’s best-selling boiled wool cobalt coat over its cotton slub Alder print dress for a vibrant look that will transition seamlessly from now into the new year. £POA; Tel: 0203 819 0819 capriclothingonline.com

Cosy christmas

Deck the halls with Chalk’s Happy Christmas cushion, crafted in soft felt with faux fur pom-poms. Available in three colourways, £23.50; wholesale.chalk.uk

Boutique loves...

THIS MONTH’S MOST COVETED WOMENSWEAR AND ACCESSORIES

Kindly gifted

Morris and Co’s Christmas gift bags are the perfect finishing touch for any festive product edit. Choose from a variety of timeless prints and colourways to bring a traditional feel to your displays. £POA; faire.com

Holding on

Featuring rough-cut rose quartz set in golden claws, Yaa Yaa London’s showstopping Hold On hoop earrings will instantly elevate outfits this party season and beyond. £POA; yaayaalondon.com E: yvonne@yaayaalondon.com

Overnight star

Designed for the boudoir and beyond, Gilda and Pearl’s luxury silk charmeuse Camille pyjamas are fit for a silver screen queen. The twopiece’s shirt sleeves are finished with sustainably sourced feather trims for ultimate bedtime glamour. £POA; E: info@gildapearl.co.uk

Finalist

Eco chic

SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS AND BRANDS

Sustainable luxury

Handcrafted by Italian artisans in Tuscany, Aimée Ann Lou’s luxury sustainable footwear features the very best eco-friendly materials. Expect premium certified LWG sustainable leather alongside GOTS-approved silk and velvet. £POA; E: assistance@aimeeannlou.com

Burning issue

Designed by a London-based perfumer, Undo Candles offers sustainable home fragrances inspired by the great outdoors. The brand takes its eco commitments seriously, using only carbon balanced packaging and carefully selected ingredients. Meanwhile it also donates a portion of its profits to restoration projects around the world. £16.25;

E: enquiries@undocandles.com

Winter woolly-land

Stay warm with wool – our favourite answer to almost any winter-related wardrobe issue. These wrist warmers by Danish label by basics are a AW22 season musthave. Made to order in Europe from 100 per cent mulesing-free merino wool, buyers can choose from a palette of more than 60 beautiful colourways. £POA; E: pg@bybasics.com bybasics.com

Ocean drive

Made with sustainable vegan leather sourced from Spain, Sambar’s signature handbags are handcrafted by local artisans in the hills of Andalucía. The brand sources the best quality ecologically responsible materials such organic cotton and postconsumer recycled polyester yarn. £POA; Tel: 07756 392 194 E: amber@emsliecreative.com

Under the tree

Made from the finest mulesing-free merino wool, lyocell and elastine blend, Dagmejan’s Stay Warm Gift Set is featherlight and breathable - keeping the wearer warm from head to toe. £POA; E: info@dagsmejan.com

Trans-seasonal hero

Sustainably made from Lenzing Ecovero, Lily and Me’s Giraffe print Wickridge Dress has a beautiful drape and soft hand feel that will look great all season. Wear it now with tights for festive lunches and bare-legged in spring. £20; Tel: 01452 207 766 lilyandmeclothing.com

Style staple

Soft and comfy in a ribbed texture, Luella’s heavy cotton Louise funnel neck jumper features a boxy shape, three-quarter sleeves and a high neckline. Pair with jeans for everyday style or over a slip dress with chunky boots. £POA; Tel: 01454 238940 luellafashion.com

Treasure trove

HIT THE JACKPOT WITH THESE GORGEOUS NEW FASHION FINDS

It’s gifting season

Available in sterling silver with the option of gold plated, Chalk’s beautiful and simplistic jewellery designs will bring extra sparkle to outfits this Christmas. The range is perfect for those looking for a special gift (or an irresistible treat for themselves). £POA; E: info@chalkuk.com wholesale.chalkuk.com

Natural elements

Natural skincare brand Kear offers unisex products produced exclusively in Greece using traditional techniques, such as its cellulite-busting Plant Heroes Body Balm. Available in mini and standard size, £POA; E: info@kearlife.com

Pearly sheen

Scream Pretty’s Large Pearl Huggies feature eight white pearl stones to bring an iridescent sheen to winter outfits. Cast from sterling silver with the option of 18ct gold plating, they’re our new must-have staple for Christmas and New Year. £14.95; E: trade@screampretty.com tradescreampretty.com

Save the date

With over 300 brands across Womenswear, Footwear, Fashion Accessories and Jewellery & Watch, MODA is the UK’s ultimate fashion destination.

Find out more at moda-uk.co.uk

Organised by

Stock Up

WHAT TO BUY NOW

Merry & bright

From must-have international brands to gorgeous short order accessories, our November fashion picks will add sparkle to your rails this Christmas and new year…

LUELLA

Voyage of discovery

WE HEAD TO SOME OF THE STRONGEST FASHION REGIONS AROUND THE GLOBE TO INSPIRE YOUR NEW SEASON EDIT

FOIL

Designed and developed in New Zealand, womenswear label Foil draws inspiration from across the global to create innovative garments in premium fabrics. The label is known for its special touches, attention to detail and outstanding quality. Perfect for customers aged 30-plus, its pieces are available in UK sizes 8 to 18 and are offered at affordable price points. Meanwhile, as Foil is only stocked by independent retailers, there’s no competition with the brand online. For AW23 its edit offers a cohesive mix of prints inspired by nature supported with complementary plain colours and textures. Expect contemporary knitwear pieces and striking prints in classic designs with a relaxed fashion edge. The brand is also incorporating more renewable and recycled fabrics into its designs each season to reduce its environmental footprint. Standouts include machine washable New Zealand merino wool knitwear in a vast colour range, renewable viscose maxi dresses in vibrant prints and its best-selling signature shirts. Wholesale prices are around £29 for knitwear while the minimum order requirement is £1,500.

CONTACT: Tel: 0800 612 9009 E: info@carolccollections.com carolccollections.com

ORIENTIQUE

Merging exclusive hand-drawn prints and natural organic fabrics with on-trend silhouettes, Australian womenswear label Orientique creates unique garments for discerning buyers. Its fabrics are designed to its own specifications to ensure the highest quality. Meanwhile, each print is hand screened by artisans up to 30,000 times to create a truly unique finish. Stocked by independents only, the label’s garments are bright and eye-catching with a great size range from UK 8 to 24. For AW23 its designers have drawn influences from the rich architecture of Ancient Greece and Rome. The collection is brighter, bolder and more striking than ever while it also includes a selection of plain basics at great price points. Hero styles include a range of new printed puffa jackets, its best-selling Godet dress in new colourways as well as organic cotton printed tees, available each season in up to 10 different prints. Wholesale prices start from £15 for its printed organic cotton tees while the minimum order requirement is £1,500.

CONTACT: Tel: 0800 612 9009 E: info@carolccollections.com carolccollections.com

ALQUEMA

Founded by Australian photographer and filmmaker Virginia Rouse, Sydney label Alquema produces unstructured occasionwear featuring distinctive pleating in classic silhouettes. The range is based on the ancient art of Japanese Shibori – a technique its founder was introduced to during her travels across Asia. Its designers adopt signature pleating techniques, high twist yarns and vibrant colourways to create an elegant and timeless collection. Produced by family artisans the label has worked with for many years, buyers can expect to find beautifully understated dresses and coats in ombré, plain and printed colourways. Key pieces include the long Estrella ombre dress and long Collare ombré coat, available in both prints and plain colours including fuchsia to grey, forest to lime and gold to silver. Meanwhile, its best-selling Smash Pocket Dress is a seasonless wardrobe staple for every occasion available in multiple colours and prints. Wholesale prices range from £76 to £84 while the minimum order requirement is 24 pieces. Stockists can re-order top ups throughout the year following initial minimum order.

CONTACT: Tel: 07734 942 382

E: claudia@aptcollections.ltd.uk aptcollections.co.uk

DOLCEZZA

Designed in Canada and manufactured in Europe, contemporary womenswear label Dolcezza creates elegant collections using the finest natural and breathable fabrics. Central to the brand’s range are its unique one-off art prints, exclusive finishes and quality craftsmanship, which help give the collection a strong point of different. The label’s womenswear is designed in-house with comfort in mind, offering impeccable fit while remaining stylish and unique. Since launching in Canada in 2003, the brand has now expanded into 30 different countries and boasts more than 2,000 stockists worldwide. For SS23 its collection is inspired by artists from the around the world with hero pieces including its signature jeans, a linen wrap dress and its Tie and Dye line in lavender, red, blue and yellow hues. Wholesale prices for the collection are £25-£50 per piece on average while the minimum order requirement is 30 pieces or £1,000.

CONTACT: Tel: 0035 321 203 8019

E: sales@dolcezzaeurope.ie dolcezza.ca

AQUA BLU

Since launching in 2000, swimwear brand Aqua Blu has established itself as a stylish label with a bold aesthetic. Its collections are designed in Australia – where it has been a market frontrunner for two decades - with global shoppers in mind. Today is it known for its lush fabrics, directional designs and statement prints, with its design team drawing inspiration from strong confident women around the globe. Buyers can expect a vibrant range encompassing attention-grabbing swimsuits, bikinis and cover-ups that celebrate femininity. For 2023, creative director Kristian Chase takes shoppers on a journey with flattering silhouettes and whimsical prints that promise to bring joy to boutiques. Maintaining a quiet confidence in the Australian swimwear industry, Aqua Blu has evolved over the years under the guidance of already-established designers, producing cutting edge swim and resort-wear for a global market. Wholesale prices are around £30 on average while there is no minimum order.

CONTACT: Tel: 01423 885 374 E: info@ patricia-eve.co.uk patricia-eve.co.uk

EMME CADEAU

Footwear brand Emme Cadeau merges two of its founder’s major influences: Caribbean flair and New York Edge. Designer Marcella Gift grew up on the on the island of Trinidad and Tobago, which is reflected in the unique materials chosen to create the brand’s footwear. Today she lives in New York City, which also influences the structure, shape and fit of her designs. Comfort is a key focus for each footwear design and Marcella tests each shoe herself before adding them to the collection, wearing each style continuously over several days before making tweaks. The footwear is made in Portugal and features arch support and a three-layer foam insole. Key styles include leather sneakers in eyecatching prints, towering party shoes and kitten heels. The brand also aims to be inclusive in its sizing offering shoes running from EU 35 to 45.

CONTACT: E: orders@emmecadeau.com emmecadeau.com

Business & pleasure

Located in one of the UK’s most picturesque spa towns, Harrogate Fashion Week is a firm industry favourite thanks to its indie-focused brands, relaxed buying environment and destination-friendly setting.

This season organisers are gearing up for expansion, offering a bigger line-up of brands across three different halls. Over 80 per cent of exhibitors rebooked following a highly successful July edition including regulars Frank Lyman, Dolcezza, Carla Ruiz and Pomodoro (more right) alongside new signings such as Access, Vilagallo and Nissa.

The latest category to join the show is lingerie with the likes of Lingadore, Iconique, Blackspade, Miraclesuit, Secret weapons, Lejaby and Chantal Thomass set to present their latest collections. Harrogate Fashion Week’s

footwear offering, meanwhile, keeps extending each season. New brands including Geox, EMIS and Brenda Zara from Spain will show in February joining show regulars Lotus, Bagatt, Capollini, Carmela and XTI.

Directors Wendy Adams and Sarah Moody say they are thrilled with the feedback received following its recent edition: “We had buyers and exhibitors thanking us for putting together the perfect buying platform in perfect surroundings,” they say. “We work hard to put together a beautiful show and the July event was our best and largest to date.”

The next edition of Harrogate Fashion Week takes place from 5-6 February 2023 at Harrogate Convention Centre; register for free entry via harrogatefashionweek. com; full brand list available from the end of November.

VISITING HARROGATE

How to get there

Positioned in the heart of the UK, Harrogate is easily accessible by road, rail or air. Leeds Bradford Airport is only a 20-minute taxi ride away with regular flights arriving from Heathrow, Dublin and Belfast. LNER runs direct trains from London or visitors from Scotland can connect at York (visit harrogatefashionweek.com for a 25 per cent rail discount). Alternatively, there’s plenty of parking in the town and at the show.

Where to stay

Held in the heart of Harrogate’s town centre, the show is within walking distance of hotels, apartments and B&Bs. Organisers have secured special rates this season with NuBreed Hotels (visit harrogatefashionweek.com/visit for more information).

Who to see

There’s a brilliant brand line-up set to showcase collections including Frank Lyman, Dolcezza, Tinta, Carla Ruiz, Veromia, Pomodoro, Rino and Pelle, Smith and Soul, Tilly and Grace, Taifun, Gabrielle Sanchez, The Bamboo Wardrobe, Marble, Alison Sheri, Lizabella and Foil. Meanwhile, new collections joining the show include Sahara, SMF, Nomads, Access, Aggel Knitwear, BB Jewellery, Capuccino, Pretty Vacant, Access, Vilagallo, Nissa, Kate and Pippa, Gabrielle Parker and Hatley.

After the show closes

Known for its restaurants and nightlife, Harrogate is a great location to do business and then network after hours. The event’s organisers host a party for buyers and brands after hours while there are plenty of nearby eateries and bars within walking distance of the show. And you can’t go to Harrogate without visiting the famous Bettys Tea Rooms.

Your time to shine

SHIMMER YOUR WAY INTO A HAPPY NEW YEAR WITH THE LATEST SHORT ORDER OFFERINGS FROM LUELLA

Nothing says festive glamour quite like sequins - and British short order brand Luella has a sparkling line-up of pieces on offer that will see shoppers through to the new year. Mix and match its rich jewel-toned dresses, knitwear and skirts with plain or printed pieces or amp up the glitz by doubling up on its sequinned separates. Teaming a sparkling top with a sequin skirt is sure to get shoppers into the party

spirit or mix it up with the brand’s new wide-leg elasticated waist sequin trousers. If your customers want to add colour to their winter wardrobes, Luella has a plethora of options from rich berry and pine cashmere jumpers to champagne and emerald sequins. And if you thought sequins were just for Christmas, think again! Carry the sparkle through into January and beyond by styling one of Luella’s luxe sequin knits with jeans and sneakers.

CONTACT: Tel: 01454 238 940 luellafashion.com

Fashion Extras

GEMMA WARD PICKS OUT THIS MONTH’S MOST COVETED BAGS, LINGERIE AND JEWELS

Sporting hero

A year-round wardrobe staple, Cocorose London’s new Hoxton metallic striped trainers feature premium leather, cushioned footbeds and extra pillowing around the heel. £POA; Tel: 0208 829 8919 cocoroselondon.com

Festive luxe

If you’re looking for luxury gifts, you can’t go wrong with Gilda and Pearl lingerie. Its French leavers lace and pure silk satin Harlow Bra is a Christmas wish come true. £POA; E: info@gildapearl.co.uk

Sustainable living

Featuring chic colourways and prints, Tawul’s sustainable beach towels are made in North Portugal using thick GOTS organic cotton grown in North West India. £POA; E: hello@ tawulliving.com

Santa’s sack

Stylish enough to sit under any tree, Chalk’s best-selling Christmas Paper Sack comes in a mixed pack of four natural and two white star designs. £13.20; wholesale.chalkuk.com

Stocking filler

Perfect for gifting, the super soft Tabitha socks by British brand Pantherella are crafted in the finest cashmere and hand finished to the highest quality. From £12.45; E: info@pantheralla.com

Streamlined beauty

Luxury vegan-friendly brand

Amara Vita Skincare offers a minimalist range of multifunctional face care products that achieve maximum results. £POA; E: contact@amarevitaskincare.com

Bird song

Independent designer Shelley Anne creates African-inspired paintings, prints and homewares featuring beautiful women as well as flora and fauna. £POA; shelley-anne.com E: hi@shelley-anne.com

Up in flames

British brand Sense of LND creates vegan-friendly hand-poured 100 per cent soy wax candles inspired by the capital, such as its black fig and vetiver-scented Regents Park. £POA; Tel: 0203 835 2212 senseofldn.com

Season’s greetings

Featuring some of William Morris’s most iconic prints, Morris and Co’s Christmas greeting cards will bring some festive cheer to your boutique this party season. £POA; faire.com

Perfect prints

One of New York Fashion Week’s Ones to Watch in 2021, US designer Metri Holliday creates vibrant-print mulberry silk scarves with hidden meanings. £POA; E: sofia@blackpr.co.uk

Forever friends

British brand Pineapple Island offers sustainable unisex bracelet sets that are handcrafted in Bali by a small group of artisans using ecofriendly materials. £POA; E: alice@pineapple-island.com

Ring in the changes

Bridging the gap between Baroque and contemporary, Astley Clarke’s Circulus Mother of Pearl Ring will elevate any outfit this Christmas and beyond. £POA; E: scott@astleyclarke.com

Written in the stars

Perfect for accessorising Christmas partywear, these Art Deco Star Studs by Scream Pretty x Hannah Martin are guaranteed to make your jewellery displays sparkle this party season. £POA; E: trade@screampretty.com

Bedtime story

Made using excess fabric from its clothing collection to minimise waste, Ethereal London’s sustainably sourced silk eye mask is the perfect gift idea for conscious shoppers. £POA; E: sofia@blackpr.co.uk

Something sweet

Inspired by Liquorice Allsorts, Mabel Sheppard’s rainbow-cuffed purple nappa leather gloves come in their own branded drawstring dust bagmaking them the perfect gift. £POA; E: mabel@mabelsheppard.co.uk

Joy to the world

With a delicate blend of rose geranium, Melissa and bergamot, Eve and Keel’s Joy chakra roller is a welcome antidote to the heaviness of recent times. £10; E: hello@eveandkeel.co.uk

Let it snow

Cast from recycled sterling silver, this delicate snowflake necklace by Lily Charmed makes the perfect gift for Christmas and all year round. £8.95; E: sales@lilycharmed.com lilycharmed.com

NOVEMBER 2022 | boutique. | 39

Wardrobe winner ‘T

is the season to get dressed up. And what better way to do so than in a comfortable merino wool dress that will last season after season?

Part of by basics’ year-round made-to-order range, its mulesingfree dress features long sleeves with cool raw edges, practical pockets and pleats that fall beautifully in soft folds. What’s more, its soft and temperature-regulating quality is ideal for trans-seasonal styling.

It's the perfect dress for every occasion from Christmas parties to the office. Style it with a pair of tights, bare legs (pictured below) or warm leggings and trousers (pictured left).

It even comes with a small repair kit so any pulls can be easily fixed, helping to prolong the life of your customer’s new favourite piece.

Order now via bybasics.com (search for style 7035; a plain name, but the dress is anything but).

THE BASICS

Danish short order brand by basics offers ethical slow fashion in a world of colours and natural qualities. Choose from 100 per cent mulesing-free merino wool and organic cotton alongside bamboo, linen, brushed wool, cotton wool and poplin. Designed in Denmark and made to order in Europe, what’s not to love? Learn more via bybasics.com and follow @bybasics.aps on Instagram.

CONTACT: bybasics.com; follow on Instagram @bybasics.aps

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Beauty buzz

DISCOVER BRILLIANT BEAUTY AND LIFESTYLE BRANDS AT JUST AROUND THE CORNER

If you’re looking for a new beauty or lifestyle brand to enhance your store’s line-up, it might be worth adding fashion trade show Just Around the Corner (JATC) to your new year buying schedule.

Show founder Juls Dawson has appointed marketing consultant Karen Berman to curate a new

beauty and lifestyle area this season, which will encompass several categories spanning skincare and grooming, fragrance and wellness as well as jewellery, fashion accessories, tableware, stationery, home tech and seasonal gifting.

Karen says she’s looking forward to helping brands connect with professional buyers: “I am so

excited to have been given this opportunity to give a voice to brands and products within the beauty, grooming and lifestyle world that may not have been able to talk B2B in the past. Now these brands will be in a position to show their wares and present to an abundance of great retailers to forge successful partnerships.”

Fashion showcase

Originally an up-and-coming menswear show, JATC hosted its first ever womenswear event in London in 2020. The following January saw it expand with a second event in Manchester, making it the only dual location trade show in the UK. For AW23 organisers have announced it is moving to larger venues in both cities – Manchester Convention Centre and taking the whole second floor of the Truman Brewery - to meet high demand from exhibitors.

JATC is popular among buyers and brands thanks to its informal approach, exciting brand mix and edgy industrial-style venues. Visitors are well looked after, with complimentary coffee and pastries served throughout the day as well as world cuisine from artisan street vendors.

JATC’s recent instalments in summer were its most popular to date, attracting buying teams from Sunday Best, Black White Denim, Sisters and Misters and Hope in Clitheroe.

Taking place in the new year, buyers can expect 300 brands at JATC’s next London show and 200 in Manchester. Alongside its new Beauty and Lifestyle area, visitors will be able to find elevated womenswear brands via The Edit section as well as labels offering both menswear and womenswear in new zone Together.

The next editions of Just Around the Corner take place from 19-20 January at Manchester Convention Centre and 8-9 February at The Truman Brewery. Register for free entry at justaroundthecorner.co.uk.

C M Y CM MY CY CMY K

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Grecian goddess

Making their UK debut via JPF London for SS23, Greek womenswear brands Amma and Mazi offer relaxed and stylish designs crafted in locally sourced natural and sustainable fabrics. The labels were founded by successful multi-brand boutique owners Rinio Kalaitzi and Nena Stamouli and their mother Froso Stamouli. After spotting a gap in the market for a contemporary and minimalist womenswear brand for their own Thessaloniki-based store, they launched the collections in 2013 before rolling them out to other indies across Greece and Europe. Amma arrived in the UK in 2021 via one stockist, who has been selling it successfully for the past three seasons. Now with the appointment of JPF London, the team behind both brands hope to grow an exclusive network of boutique partners on our shores. Key benefits for retailers include no minimum order requirements, no import duty and free shipping for orders over £5,000. Amma’s SS23 collection is available to order now while sister label Mazi can be selected for AW22 and SS23 (AW23 launching in January). “The collections have been enjoying a great reception since their arrival in the UK in October,” says JFP owner John Pearce. “New accounts are opening every week and we’ve already started shipping orders.” Showing by appointmentonly; Asia House, London (29 Jan - 17 Feb 2023).

Down to Business

INSIGHT FOR FASHION INDIES

A colourful alternative

As cash-conscious shoppers seek out promotions, Black Friday is expected to dominate the high street later this month. But what if there was an alternative for independents that championed small business rather than online conglomerates?

Step forward Colour Friday, a new campaign by Holly and Co, spearheaded by small business champion Holly Tucker MBE. Here she reveals the concept behind the special day and how fashion indies can get involved…

HOLLY TUCKER

Bright idea

SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPION HOLLY TUCKER DISCUSSES COLOUR FRIDAY, THE INDIE-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE TO THIS MONTH’S DISCOUNTING EXTRAVAGANZA

“I’m often asked why I am so obsessed with small businesses - and that question always makes me smile. You see, I am not actually fascinated by business itself. No, it’s more about the incredible opportunities running a small business offers, enabling each founder to live their life on their own terms, to live creatively, to build a life they love and to strive to be happy each day. Far from being a champion of business, my passion is for each founder, like you, who has poured their heart and soul into their trade, created magic in their own retail space, brought an

independent shop to the high street and made the brave step to follow their dream.

“When I stepped back from notonthehighstreet.com and set about launching Holly and Co, I looked at the landscape for anyone who wanted to turn their passion into a small business. To be frank, I found the information on offer bleak and grey. It was essentially a government website or a very dull and serious book. Even television programmes portray running a business as scary, complicated and intimidating.

“That wasn’t my experience of business, and I don’t believe you need to swallow a business

bible to make it work. Nor do I believe that it has to be grey and uninspiring. Business is the key to unlocking dreams. It’s creative, colourful and there’s no secret to success reserved just for the very few. Rather, I wanted to empower anyone with a dream.

“So, I decided to create the ultimate inspirational landscape for all small business founders. I started with my podcast, Conversations of Inspiration (at the time it was the first podcast hosted by a seasoned female businesswoman)! And I have also written a Sunday Times bestselling book: Do What You Love, Love What You Do.

IMAGES BY JAKE BAGGALEY

Get involved

“Last year I launched my annual Colour Friday campaign, a day where I encourage everyone to reconsider their Black Friday mass consumption and encourage consumers to shop thoughtfully with small businesses during the biggest retail period of the year.

“We know this year is going to be one of our toughest Christmases yet. I’ve already had to take the difficult decision to close my Work/Shop, and I know thousands of you across the UK are in the same boat. We need to encourage this year’s Christmas shoppers to buy fewer gifts from big businesses and more from the smalls — and quite literally, use us or lose us.

“This year on 25 November we are encouraging the nation to swap Black Friday for Colour Friday and support the UK’s independents who work so hard to bring colour to grey. With your help, we can take a stand before it’s too late.

“There are so many ways independent retailers can get involved. If you head to my website ( holly.co ) you can download the free Colour Friday marketing pack filled with exclusive artwork that you can print out to put in your shop window or turn into stickers to pop on orders. You could even turn it into badges to gift to your in-store shoppers. The information also includes some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in retail over the past 20 years as well as how you can make the shift from Black Friday to Colour Friday as a small business.

“I know how tough it’s out there for all of us this Christmas. I really hope you might pledge your support and take part in Colour Friday - I will be looking to each one of you to shout about it from the rooftops and get our collective voice heard. I wish you all the luck and success over these critical months and weeks.”

Holly Tucker MBE is a small business ambassador and founder of notonthehighstreet.com and Holly and Co. She offers advice and inspiration to indies through her podcast, book, Instagram accounts (@holly.co and @hollytucker) and online Advice Hub. Find out more via holly.co.

Help to grow

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Citrus-Lime’s Cloud POS Click & Collect is a really powerful feature for your website because it allows shoppers to immediately see if the product they’re looking for is in stock and when they can get it. This gives them confidence in your offer and helps you generate more online sales. Get in touch with Citrus-Lime’s team to find out more.

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Shop Talk

INDUSTRY OPINION

The perfect fit

From friendly FaceTime fittings to enticing loyalty incentives, The Pantry Underwear is disrupting the market with its fresh take on bra and knickers shopping. Here founder Eloise Rigby (pictured) reveals the key strategi es behind her unapologetically different indie underwear shop…

ELOISE RIGBY, THE PANTRY UNDERWEAR

Bosom buddies

Changing people's perceptions about buying bras is an ongoing pursuit for The Pantry Underwear founder Eloise Rigby, who opened her first store in Islington in 2016.

“Women in the UK seem to place less value on underwear because it’s something that no one else sees,” she says. “In other countries it’s the opposite - the right bra can literally transform an outfit.”

The former marketing manager says there’s also an intergenerational belief that there’s only one place to buy underwear: “Marks and Spencer has cornered the market for decades,” she says. “The nation is so used to that experience that women often believe anything else is out of their price range. One of the biggest challenges I face as an indie underwear retailer is trying to shift that deeply ingrained idea.”

Now with a portfolio of three physical stores and a thriving e-commerce business, The Pantry Underwear is breaking the mould when it comes to bra and knickers shopping. Its team (AKA the Pant Patrol) offers a friendly and accessible service inside a contemporary and welcoming retail space. Or, if they prefer, via FaceTime fittings and consultations (set up during the lockdowns) with trained staff from the comfort of their own home.

Its range covers everything from everyday staples to maternity bras and sleepwear to special occasion lingerie and swimwear. Core labels include leading names Sloggi, Spanx, Calvin Klein Panache and Triumph through to indie labels like Dora Larsen.

And despite its top-level customer experience, highly curated product line-up and well considered physical store interiors, bras at The Pantry Underwear range from a reasonable £32 - £65 each.

THE PANTRY UNDERWEAR IS DISRUPTING THE MARKET WITH ITS DUAL-CONCEPT STORES AND FRESH APPROACH TO RETAIL

Strong foundations

Spotting a gap in the market, Eloise opened her first store in September 2016 in Islington’s Camden Passage. Her original concept was to offer an alternative to “uninspiring lingerie departments” and “inaccessible boudoir-style boutiques.” Six years later that philosophy remains.

The Islington shop was an instant hit and after six months trading, Eloise was approached by Liberty London to open a concession: “It felt like too good an opportunity to turn down,” she says. “Liberty’s footfall is fantastic; the store attracts a high volume of shoppers and international tourists. It meant we were able to build a bigger customer base and it transformed the business in many ways.”

It wasn’t without its challenges, however. The indie owner points out that it’s quite unusual to open a multi-brand concession inside a department store under the umbrella of another brand. “We were effectively representing three tiers of brands: Liberty, The Pantry Underwear and then our suppliers,” she says. “For that reason, the customer’s exposure to our store as a brand was quite limited.”

In 2020, when the pandemic hit and the contract with Liberty was expiring, Eloise decided to pursue other avenues. “It was great precovid, but we were relying on Liberty to bring in the footfall, so when that

couldn’t happen it was no longer viable for the business,” she explains.

In the interim Elosie had also opened a second standalone store in Saffron Walden. But this time she decided to step into a new sector with a new dual concept shop. Set across three floors, The Pantry Underwear and The Pantry Bridal merges the retailer’s intimate categories alongside a tight edit of British bridalwear.

“In terms of cross pollination, it just made perfect sense,” she says.

“We already had a great bridal underwear offering, so we were able to use many of the same suppliers to bring dresses in too.”

Located in the store’s basement, The Pantry Bridalwear offers female-founded British brands that complement its aesthetic. More recently, it has also just launched its own-brand collection, which is made in-house by a dedicated dress maker. With The Pantry Underwear positioned on the top floor, customers can buy their entire wedding outfit under one roof (and return for honeymoon lingerie and everyday staples).

Mainstream move

In August 2021, The Pantry Underwear moved its original flagship store from the quirky Camden Passage to nearby retail development, Islington Square. Flanked by mainstream retailers,

restaurants, salons, an upmarket Odeon and some fellow indies, the new unit boasts more space and a more conventional shop floor layout. “Our Camden Passage store wasn’t big enough and was quite a higgledypiggledy space,” says Eloise. “The new shop has more square footage with huge floor-to-ceiling windows. We’ve added in warm soft lighting and natural textiles to create an interesting space that’s practical yet still has the personality of an independent.”

The move to a modern development was also part of Eloise’s strategy to become more accessible to mainstream shoppers. “I’m proud to be an independent, but there’s still this conception that boutiques are expensive,” she explains. “We’re trying to get away from that, so positioning the store among high street brands like Anthropologie is all part of changing that preconceived idea.”

The retailer’s latest launch is a third standalone bricks-and-mortar store in Cambridge, which opened at the end of September. The shop is also dual concept with underwear and bridalwear set across separate floors. Inside there’s a greater depth of product lines and larger changing rooms as well as some artwork and products from local creators.

The owner says she’d been considering the city – her hometown - as a location for a couple of years and wanted to test the market with a trial unit. “We were able to negotiate a temporary contract with the landlord so we can establish whether it’s the right location for us,” she says. “It’s on the market square, so a great position with lots of footfall. It takes a while to build up a community, so it’s too early to say whether we’ll be staying longterm. However, it’s been popular so far and is among the likes of Whistles, Space NK and Sweaty Betty, which seems to be working well for us.”

Currently, Eloise has retained the Saffron Walden location as a studio space, but its customers are being redirected to Cambridge with tempting loyalty programme incentives. “We’ll keep both locations while we do the trial,”

says Eloise. “After that we’ll be able to reassess the best way to move forward with the business.”

Group chat

The Pantry Underwear stocks the same product range across its stores and e-commerce site, which Eloise says is an important part of its customer experience: “I don’t think it’s a good thing for shoppers to see something online, walk into that retailer’s physical store, and find it’s not stocked there,” she says. “I know some larger retailers are trying out marketplace models. And while I understand that from a commercial standpoint, it’s not the way we want to go.”

Eloise explains that its product portfolio is purposely comprehensive so not to alienate any portion of the market: “We do have a customer profile with loyal shoppers who fall into that category, but we are always aiming to broaden that. Stocking a large range comes with its challenges, but I couldn’t risk losing a new customer because there were holes in our sizes or styles. I’m always striving for that perfect customer experience.”

Another key part of its strategy is to never ever discount - a decision consciously made from the very beginning to protect the brand. "It can be difficult at times, especially when our suppliers start their promotions online,” Eloise says. “But it’s something we stick to.” Instead, the retailer offers its regular customers – fondly referred to as its ‘Pant Pals’ - a loyalty scheme. To be included, they sign up to receive its ‘Pant Post’ emails and agree for the retailer to keep a record of their size. Every transaction accrues credit in their account and once that reaches £20, they can spend it online or in-store.

While The Pantry is still on a growth trajectory for the year, Eloise says she’s slowly beginning to see the impact of the cost of living crisis. The indie owner works on the shop floor three days a week and says she’s seeing more shoppers delay making a purchase after a bra fitting: “After the whole rigmarole of being fitted, customers would always walk away with at least one new bra. Now we are getting more and more people asking us to save their size so they can come back on pay day.”

To tackle the issue, Eloise says the team is reacting with personalised marketing. So far, the retailer has reached out to anyone who had a virtual fitting during the lockdown, reminding them it may be time to be fit-checked. They have also contacted loyalty shoppers with enough (or almost enough) credit to receive money off their purchase. This has proved successful and has helped drive an increase in sales.

Eloise says Saturdays at the bricksand-mortar stores are still really busy. However, as many retailers would probably attest to, attracting midweek shoppers is more of a challenge. “This time of the year is interesting as people are preparing for Christmas but haven’t necessarily started buying presents yet,” she says. “Our focus at the moment is on driving footfall ourselves through repeat visits, partnerships with local organisations and our Pant Pal community.”

Room for improvement

To further cement its position as an affordable and accessible retailer, The Pantry is also trialling new visual merchandising inside its stores. Eloise doesn’t favour using mannequins: “Boobs are soft and behave in a unique way that mannequins can’t replicate,” she says. Instead, shoppers can see Polaroids of real women wearing its bras (usually staff and regular customers) among the shop’s rails. This also includes written information, such as available cup sizes, fabrics and prices, so the options are immediately clear.

The retailer’s window displays are also different to a traditional shop front: “We use suspended rings and rails to showcase our products,” says Eloise. “I think a window with pretty yellow lingerie shown on mannequins could be alienating for some shoppers. They might take one look and immediately discount us.”

The stores’ window merchandising also often coordinates with its marketing campaigns. For example, The Pantry installed a display of love notes written by its customers for ‘Pal-entine's Day’ and donated £1 for every inclusion to the British Heart Foundation. It also uses letter boards outside its stores, proclaiming its “free fittings” and “A-K cup range” as well as “a bit of banter to make people smile.” Eloise says: “We don’t really invest in seasonal decorations - I think this is a much better way to get our personality across to potential customers.”

Moving into the final weeks of the year, the team behind The Pantry will be focusing on establishing its offer in Cambridge. Eloise says she is also investigating a higher tech version of its hugely popular virtual bra fittings using full-body 3D scanning and augmented reality.

When it comes to more bricksand-mortar stores, does the owner have any more locations in the pipeline? “I’m always on the lookout for new potential premises,” she says. “Who knows where we could be by this time next year.”

“I would urge smaller retailers to consider a different approach to Black Friday this year”

ANDREW GOODACRE, CEO AT BIRA, ON MAKING THE MOST OF THIS YEAR’S GOLDEN QUARTER

“Another month, another new prime minister - and another new government. I have heard people describe the last few months as a ‘permacrisis’ – a new word to describe the uncertainty everybody’s having to deal with at the moment. Yet, businesses and specifically retail has to focus at this moment in time as we are in the middle of the so-called golden quarter. It is at this time of year when many retailers traditionally see the strongest sales as shoppers come out and buy for Christmas.

“In the past few years we have seen the Black Friday phenomenon establish itself in the UK. Started by Amazon in the USA, it is always on the final Friday of November (the day after Thanksgiving in America), and it has now become a major retail event across the globe. In fact, what started out as a one-day sale has now become a more lengthy extravaganza. This

year the focus on Black Friday seems to have started even earlier for some chain retailers, with offers beginning at the start of November as large businesses try to be first to market.

“From a small business perspective, I’m in two minds about Black Friday. There is no doubt that it is established as a shopping day, but its focus is on special offers and large discounts. This sales approach makes it a better opportunity for the big retailers where they might expect to achieve the sales volumes to compensate for the reduced profit margins on the items sold. Black Friday is also suited to businesses with a strong online presence and digital marketing channels to reach consumers.

“However, that is not to say that the indie retailer cannot take part, providing a couple of ‘rules’ are applied. Firstly, do

not do blanket discounts across your entire product range. A sale should only be used to sell slow moving stock and there is no need to discount your best-selling items. Secondly, determine the price point or discount you are offering and promote it. Enlist all your marketing channels (and more) to tell consumers what you are offering. Black Friday should be used to attract new customers as well as rewarding your existing client base.

“I would also urge smaller retailers to consider a different approach to Black Friday this year. Successful independent retail is often built on creativity and being different, which is why Bira is supporting Colour Friday – an initiative launched last year by Holly Tucker. Its concept is about reminding shoppers to support small shops when making purchases on Black Friday, making it clear that it is not just about big business. It is a super idea that brings a point of difference and a marketing twist on an established event (visit holly.co/colour-Friday ).

“Whatever your approach to the build-up this year, there is no doubt that this Christmas will be more important for retailers than ever. Individuality and creativity, supported by a lot of determination, will be the key characteristics that will help smaller retailers make the most of 2022’s golden quarter.”

Business boosters

THREE WAYS TO RECESSION-PROOF YOUR BUSINESS IN 2022 AND BEYOND

Boutiques as small businesses are the backbone of our economy, making up at least 26 per cent of the UK's retail sector. With talks of a looming recession and financial instability, it’s more important than ever to be reactive with your marketing strategy.

Start by targeting your typical customer demographic in the local area by setting up a Facebook Ad with an enticing message or offer. This will encourage more locals to pop in as well as generate word-of-mouth.

Alongside driving visitors to your physical store, getting your products onto multiple websites

is another way to raise awareness - and it doesn’t have to be time consuming. With the right EPOS system in place, you can create product listings in minutes and add them to your own website, eBay, Amazon and more. Whenever something is sold in store, your websites will automatically adjust to the correct stock figure so there’s no risk of overselling.

Although the flow of new clients is crucial, it’s even more important to maintain customer loyalty by keeping in touch with your regular clients. Do this with the help of the CRM module of your EPOS

system and ensure loyal shoppers never miss an offer, new product or exciting reward.

Much of this can be easily achieved with Top to Toe, the UK’s fashion specialist EPOS system. By enlisting the system this November or December, you could be selling on multiple channels, master reporting and running targeted marketing campaigns aimed at loyal customers sooner than you think. Rated 4.9/5 across major platforms with unlimited one-to-one support, investing into Top to Toe will serve your small business well for many years to come.

CONTACT: book an online demonstration with the Top to Toe team; Tel: 0203 376 5888 toptotoe.com

way brands respond to an economic downturn can have a significant impact on business”

HARI KRISHNADASAN, MD AT CAPRI LONDON, ON RETAIL IN THE FINAL WEEKS OF 2022

pandemic in 2020. Sticking to their strategy meant they were able to grow their revenues unlike many of their competitors.

“Economic downturns can also give brands a chance to get more bang for their buck, both from advertising and innovation. This can help drive sales during hard economic times and advertising can help move product.

ith soaring inflation, rising interest rates and a volatile marketplace, it’s pretty clear where we’re heading. If we look at past recessions, 2008 will always stick out in my memory. It was the year I was made redundant from my job in the City of London and who can forget the credit crunch and financial chaos that ensued?

“The way brands respond to an economic downturn can have a significant impact on business in both the near and long-term future. The natural human inclination is to pull back, save funds and ride out the economic lows.

“W“But we can learn a lot from past recessions. The tried and tested advertising strategies of companies and brands show there are opportunities to gain market share - even in volatile conditions.

“As I looked into this idea further, I discovered that brands that continue to engage with consumers on an emotional and meaningful level build trust and a connection that will influence purchase behaviours. And that’s both now and in the future once economic conditions begin to stabilise.

“Kantar Index research points to success stories such as PepsiCo and Procter and Gamble, which both continued to spend on advertising and stayed the course of their planning at the height of the

“Colour Friday – the small business-friendly alternative to Black Friday – is shining a light on the creativity that independent businesses bring to the UK. The campaign is about raising awareness of the importance of small firms and asking consumers to swap some of their usual Christmas spend to independents instead. For indies, this is a great movement to be part of.

“It’s also worth considering this is the first Christmas where shoppers will expect an equal experience online and in-store. In 2020, people went digital out of necessity, while in 2021 shopping went hybrid but still leaned towards digital. This year, according to The Mars Agency, the pendulum has swung back to an integrated physical store and digital shopping experience. Brands and retailers should therefore try to strike a balance between in-store and online, creating an omnichannel marketplace with a great in-store experience and strong digital presence.”

“The

PHOTO BY MICROSOFT EDGE ON UNSPLASH

Accessories

Business

Capri Clothing

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Top To Toe

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Messe Frankfurt France

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Moda/ Autumn and Spring Fair

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Pure London

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Scoop

Events and Exhibitions

Boutique Star Awards

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Harrogate Fashion Week

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Home and Gift

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Indx womenswear and footwear

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INDX Woman- 1st-2nd February Opening Times:

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Footwear

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Extravagance

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Lofina

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64 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2022

Womenswear

Apt Collections:

Brands: Alembika, Alquema, Elsewhere, Igor, Ozai n Ku, Philomena Christ

Contact: Nigel Hughes T: 020 7580 3202 W: www.aptcollections.co.uk

Capri Clothing

T: +44 203 819 0819

E: sales@capriclothing.co.uk W: capriclothingonline.com

Carol C Collections

Brands : Foil, Orientique ,Tirelli, Oopera , Moke , Tara Vao

Contact : Carol ,Andrew and Lisa T: 0800 6129009

E: info@carolccollections W: www.carolccollections.com

City Goddess/Goddiva/ Goddiva plus

T: 0044 208 597 2744

E: sales@citygoddess.co.uk W: www.citygoddess.co.uk

Double H Agency

Brands: Eden Park , St James . Contact: Marc Querol Linkedin - Facebook - TwitterInstagramW: www.doublehagency.com T: 02034326387

Extravagance

Brands: Sarah Pacini, Thanny, Caraclan, Marco Moreo shoes

Contact: Nazma Chaudhry

T: 07881 622 888

E: nazmachaudhry@gmail.com W: www.sarahpacini.com W: www.ny77design.com

From My Mothers Garden

Contact name Penny Callaghan

T: 07825 148040 / 01308 426517

E: info@frommymothersgarden.co.uk

W: www.frommymothersgarden.co.uk

Joseph Ribkoff

Contact: Mark Rowe London showroom: by appointment only 1st floor, 40-41 great castle street, london w1w 8lu Jrdl uk ltd

Addlepool business centre, clyst st george, exeter, devon ex3 0nr T: 01392- 876390

Leap N Link Ltd

Brands: Pause Café , Fuego Woma –Oliver Philips – Bleu d’Azur Contact : Pierre & Bhavna T: 0161 713 1803

E: info@leapnlink.co.uk W:www.leapnlink.co.uk

Lily & Me

Amari Designs Ltd, Unit 15, Gabwell Business Park, Quadrant Distribution Centre, Hardwicke, Gloucester, GL2 2JH

T: 01566 779477 / 01566 772121

E: enquiries@lilyandmeclothing. com info@lilyandmeclothing.com W: www.lilyandmeclothing.com

MDA INTERNATIONAL

Brands: Blueberry, Mama B, Mes Soeurs Et Moi, Kedziorek, Thing, Papucei, Baci & Amici. E: office@mdainternational.co.uk T: General: 020 7971 1084 Hannah: 07813925975 W: www.mdainternational.co.uk Instagram: mdainternational

Nomads

9 Western Road, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 7AR

Contact: Shallon and Jo T: 01566 777 338 E: info@nomadsclothing.co.uk W: www.nomadsclothing.com

Olivia Darcy

Luxury Womenswear , designed and made in Yorkshire

E: info@oliviadarcy.co.uk W: www.oliviadarcy.co.uk/

Partners In Fashion (2019) LTD

Brands: Erfo – Franks Walder – Just White – Kris Fashion – Lecomte -Manisa -Maria Villalobos – Marina V – Relaxed by Toni – Toni 35 Percy Street London W1T 2DQ Contact: Cathy Vandeputte T: 020 7636 4207 E: cathy.vandeputte@ partnersinfashion.co.uk W: www.partnersinfashion.com

Pomodoro

Contact : Noreen and Hemant

E: info@pomodoroclothing.com W: pomodoroclothing.com T: 0208 961 4000

Sally Dawes Agency

Brands: ESTHEME CASHMERE, SFIZIO, INDIES, BLEU BLANC ROUGE, PRET POUR PARTIR T: 0776 997 03 87 E: sally@sallydawes.com W: www.sallydawes.com

Tate Fashions

Brands: Lizabella, I.nco, Ella Boo, Bella Premium & Gracie B E: tatefashions@hotmail.com T: 07712398549 01132459064

Tempest Designs

Brand names: Sarah Tempest Fashion Jewellery, Handbags & Accessories

Contact: Michael Webster T: 01656 842102

E: enquiries @tempestdesigns.co.uk W: www.tempestdesigns.co.uk

Tor Fashion

Brands: Cream, Frank Lyman, Orientique, Tirelli, Condici, Ispirato, MOKE T: 07855 481651 E: info@torfashion.co.uk W: www.torfashion.co.uk Instagram: torfashionltd

NOVEMBER 2022 | boutique. | 65