Boutique Magazine May 2024 by BPM008

Reducing shrinkage

British brands

SS25 trade shows Collen and Clare

BUSINESS SENSE FOR FASHION RETAILERS MAY 2024 ISSUE 162

Timeless style

01 – 03.07.2024 PARIS, FRANCE PORTE DE VERSAILLES HALL 7 Weaving the Future Sourcing | Business | Solutions texworld-paris.com including |

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

PUBLISHER

Julie Neill

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.

ON THE COVER:

Image courtesy of Christophe Duchamp, model Renata Da Silva; christopheduchamp.com

Rays of hope

Af ter months of incessant rain, the sun’s belated arrival has been extremely welcome. It finally feels like spring has sprung and summer is just around the corner. Let’s hope it’s enough to entice shoppers back out into physical stores from now until the season ends.

For those of you considering your SS25 buying options, we spotlight 10 top trade shows to visit this season whether you’re on the hunt for womenswear, accessories or homewares. Turn to pages 21-25 for our summer 2024 highlights.

T his month will also see the judging panel announced for this year’s Boutique Star Awards . Among the experts selecting 2024’s winners include Doodie Stark’s Liz Jefferson, Jan Shutt from Sunday Best and fashion agent Diane Sykes (full panel to be confirmed later this month). We’d also like to thank category sponsors Bira, City Goddess and AIS. Their support is crucial to enable us to put on this year’s awards and winners’ party at London’s May Fair Hotel this November.

If you’d like to enter this year, there’s still plenty of time. Retailers can put themselves forward for nine different categories including new awards Store Design of the Year, Shop Window of the Year and Employer of the Year (visit boutique-magazine.co.uk/star-

awards-2024 for the full list). We also offer more insight into the judging criteria for popular category Fashion Independent of the Year on pages 36-37.

E lsewhere, this month’s cover is by British watch brand Christophe Duchamp, which is shaking up the wristwear market with its affordable Swiss-made timepieces. Read more about its range on page 26 (including details behind an exclusive 80 per cent discount).

Last but not least, we also interview Collen and Clare’s Vanessa Hodgson in this month’s Shop Talk section. Having retailed in East Anglia’s Southwold since 2003, her destination store has amassed a staunch following. This year has seen heavy investments in the e-commerce side of the business, culminating in drastic changes to its platform and website. Turn to pages 41-45 to discover more about her inspiring 21-year-old business.

G emma Ward, Editor

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 3

EDITOR’S LETTER

boutique. WWW.CHRISTOPHEDUCHAMP.COM PROMOTION About time CHRISTOPHE DUCHAMP’S LUXE SWISS-MADE WATCHES ARE TRULY TIMELESS T he wristwatch has been – and always will be – an alluring accessory. As well as the function of telling the time, the right timepiece can instantly elevate any outfit just like shoes or handbag. The rich and famous love luxury watches. Taylor Swift wore one around her neck as choker (a custommade Lorraine Schwartz, no less) to February’s Grammys, cleverly referencing her Midnights Then, at last year’s half-time Super Bowl performance, she wore red diamond-encrusted wristwatch to coordinate with her Loewes boilersuit. For us mere mortals, such luxury is difficult trend gaining our attention. Priced at a fraction of the cost, Christophe Duchamp’s Swiss-made timepieces boast similar quality as those produced by luxury high-end brands. Its designs, divided into five collections for women and nine for men, are carefully manufactured in Mendrisio, Switzerland – motherland to some of the most renowned watchmakers in the world. George Bale, a horology expert with over 15 years’ industry experience, first launched the UK-based brand in 2021 “to put luxury Swiss timepieces on the wrists of those who can’t afford Rolex.” He says: “A Duchamp watch epitomises luxury. Our designs draw inspiration from horology greats like AP, Patek Philippe and Rolex.” 1.Élysées Powered by Swiss movement, the bestselling Élysées watch is exceptionally precise and reliable. Its strap and face are engineered from the finest quality stainless steel then finished with 11 precision-cut diamonds for extra sparkle. 2. Lugano Six A Swiss-made masterpiece fusing tradition with modern sophistication, the Lugano Six boasts mother of pearl dial and elegant Roman numerals to mark each hour. Choose from several colour combinations including this dazzling purple and silver. 3. Audace A bold and classic design for men offering the ultimate simplicity in date horology. Expect Swiss-made fluted bezel and jubilee bracelet. It’s a true timeless investment piece that will be worn for years to come. 1 THE WATCH LIST In just three years, his brand has garnered a loyal following, securing partnerships with QPR, Hibernian and Swansea football clubs as well as Ospreys rugby. It also sponsors a team of Lamborghini GT racing cars, an around-the-world yacht team and is the official timekeeper at the Prince of Wales Trophy Polo final. Now it has its sights set on cornering the global affordable luxury watch market having taken on distributors in Europe, South Africa and Australia. But George isn’t just focused on world domination: “We use renewable or low carbon energy when crafting our timepieces while our packaging is also recyclable,” he says. “Next year we plan to share profits with three global charities to help clean up our oceans, save endangered animals and fund medics for war zones.” Affordable, high-end watches from UK brand that considers the planet? It’s about time. Retail prices range from £1,450 to £2,995. Boutique magazine readers can access an exclusive 80 per cent discount on the RRP price until the end of June 2024 using code: BOUTIQUE80. Find out more via christopheduchamp.com 42 boutique. MAY 2024 MAY 2024 boutique. 43 Coastal cool A PROMINENT FEATURE OF SOUTHWOLD’S RETAIL LANDSCAPE, COLLEN AND CLARE’S TRIPLE-FRONTED DESTINATION STORE HAS BEEN DELIGHTING SHOPPERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS. HERE FOUNDER VANESSA HODGSON SHARES HER REMARKABLE STORY OF SELLING CITY FASHION BY THE SEA Dominating one corner immaculately dressed windows are often the first thing shoppers look for when visiting the seaside town. In fact, what the mannequins are wearing is now so eagerly anticipated that the retailer has introduced weekly ‘shop the window’ feature on its website: “We’re renowned for our windows,” says owner Vanessa Hodgson. “Mixing up labels to create unique looks is the principal job of multi-brand independent like us; it’s something we do well.” Collen and Clare is very much like department store’s much cooler little sister with an exemplary service to match. Behind its blue façade sits 3,500sq ft of retail space spanning four separate rooms on a single floor. Inside shoppers can find treasure trove of seductive fashion buys from pop-bright Vilagallo dresses to classic Weekend MaxMara separates. There are timeless Mulberry handbags, vibrant Wushu Ruyi trainers and sustainable denim by Seventy and Mochi. Customers can stock up on cosmetics, skincare and unique homewares. And with dedicated menswear room, male shoppers are well catered for, too. The retailer has amassed opening in 2003 – from local celebrities and CEOs to day trippers and tourists. Over the years it has been lauded by the national press - just last month it was chosen by fashion blogger Emma Paton for The Telegraph’s list of ‘50 greatest boutiques’. Yet it hasn’t all been plain sailing for Vanessa despite the store’s location by the sea. But, with the help of her 17-strong team, the owner has successfully steered the business through numerous challenges including significant restructure in the throes of the pandemic. City living Back in the 1990s, Vanessa –farmer’s daughter had high-flying career in investment banking. But after a decade of fast living in the city, she wanted to return to Suffolk to pursue her own business dream: “I was approaching 30 and worried wouldn’t like myself in another ten years if continued on the same path.” seen potential in her hometown of Southwold for shop selling fashion she wanted to buy. Located on East Anglia’s coast, the affluent for scores of Londoners and second homeowners (Keira Knightly and Richard Curtis are among those with houses nearby). “It’s wonderful place with great pubs and scenic coastal walks a real antidote to fast-paced life in the city,” says Vanessa. “Like many Londoners, my friends and would spend our weekends here. We’d have brilliant time but found there was nowhere to shop.” Teaming up with friend and former retail boss Clare Grady, Vanessa (née Collen) began mulling over the idea for a new boutique. Between them an exciting concept emerged. Their vision, to bring an was to be bolstered further by an unforgettable customer experience: “We wanted Collen and Clare to be the antithesis of pretentious boutique,” she says. “Our idea was to create little girl’s dressing up box for grown-ups. Women could come in and try on anything they liked without being judged. It was all about having fun; we didn’t want customers to feel pressured to buy.” Work experience After handing in her notice and being swiftly escorted off the premises (apparently customary practise for bankers who resign), Vanessa immediately began seeking handson retail experience. “We’d found the right premises, but the building hadn’t previously been shop and needed total renovation,” she says. “So, took on part-time role at local discounting store. My previous salary raised eyebrows, but was thankfully welcomed onto the team.” The day after Vanessa’s thirtieth birthday party saw her joining Clare to trawl the aisles of Pure London. Their early brand list well as Rachel Roberts, Pringle and Wolford. “We wanted to offer real multi-brand experience with mix of price points that appealed to variety of people. We also bought across the categories, bringing in full ‘head to toe’ options from coats and dresses to hats and tights.” Collen and Clare today. The store stocks colossal 120 brands including Ba&sh, Farm Rio, Rails, Traffic People, Foil and Stella Nova. Shoppers can buy a basic t-shirt for £30 or splurge something for everyone; you can buy Falke tight or Charnos,” says Vanessa. “We sell Penelope Bear.” Underwear is also popular at the store: “You’d be gobsmacked by how many people come to Southwold for the weekend and forget to pack pants.” SHOP TALK 42 boutique. MAY 2024 MAY 2024 boutique. 43 Coastal cool A PROMINENT FEATURE OF SOUTHWOLD’S RETAIL LANDSCAPE, COLLEN AND CLARE’S TRIPLE-FRONTED DESTINATION STORE HAS BEEN DELIGHTING SHOPPERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS. HERE FOUNDER VANESSA HODGSON SHARES HER REMARKABLE STORY OF SELLING CITY FASHION BY THE SEA Dominating one corner immaculately dressed windows are often the first thing shoppers look for when visiting the seaside town. In fact, what the mannequins are wearing is now so eagerly anticipated that the retailer has introduced weekly ‘shop the window’ feature on its website: “We’re renowned for our windows,” says owner Vanessa Hodgson. “Mixing up labels to create unique looks is the principal job of a multi-brand independent like us; it’s something we do well.” Collen and Clare is very much like department store’s much cooler little sister with an exemplary service to match. Behind its blue façade sits 3,500sq of retail space spanning four separate rooms on single floor. Inside shoppers can find treasure trove of seductive fashion buys – from pop-bright Vilagallo dresses to classic Weekend MaxMara separates. There are timeless Mulberry handbags, vibrant Wushu Ruyi trainers and sustainable denim by Seventy and Mochi. Customers can stock up on cosmetics, skincare and unique homewares. And with dedicated menswear room, male shoppers are well catered for, too. The retailer has amassed opening in 2003 – from celebrities and CEOs to day trippers and tourists. Over the years it has been lauded by the national press - just last month it was chosen by fashion blogger Emma Paton for The Telegraph’s list of ‘50 greatest boutiques’. Yet it hasn’t all been sailing for Vanessa despite the store’s location by the sea. But, with the help of her 17-strong team, the owner has successfully steered the business through numerous challenges including a significant restructure in the throes of the pandemic. City living Back in the 1990s, Vanessa –farmer’s daughter had high-flying career in investment banking. But after decade of fast living in the city, she wanted to return to Suffolk to pursue her own business dream: “I was approaching 30 and worried wouldn’t like myself in another ten years if continued on the same path.” seen potential in her hometown of Southwold for shop selling fashion she wanted to buy. Located on East Anglia’s coast, the affluent for scores of Londoners and second homeowners (Keira Knightly and Richard Curtis are among those with houses nearby). “It’s wonderful place with and scenic coastal walks real antidote to fast-paced life in the city,” says Vanessa. “Like many Londoners, my friends and would spend our weekends here. We’d brilliant time but found there was nowhere to shop.” Teaming up with friend and former retail boss Clare Grady, Vanessa (née Collen) began mulling over the idea for a new boutique. Between them an exciting concept emerged. Their vision, to bring an was to be bolstered further by an unforgettable customer experience: “We wanted Collen and Clare to be the antithesis of a pretentious boutique,” she says. “Our idea was to create little dressing up box for grown-ups. Women could come in and try on anything they liked without being judged. It was all about having fun; we didn’t want customers to feel pressured to buy.” Work experience After handing in her notice and being swiftly escorted off the premises (apparently customary practise for bankers who resign), Vanessa immediately began seeking handson retail experience. “We’d found the right premises, but the building hadn’t previously been shop and needed a total renovation,” she says. “So, took on part-time role at a local discounting store. My previous salary raised eyebrows, but I was thankfully welcomed onto the team.” The day after Vanessa’s thirtieth birthday party saw her joining Clare to trawl the aisles of Pure London. Their early brand list well as Rachel Roberts, Pringle and Wolford. “We wanted to offer a real multi-brand experience with a mix of price points that appealed to variety of people. We also bought across the categories, bringing in full ‘head to toe’ options from coats and dresses to hats and tights.” Collen and Clare today. The store stocks colossal 120 brands including Ba&sh, Farm Rio, Rails, Traffic People, Foil and Stella Nova. Shoppers can buy a basic t-shirt for £30 or splurge something for everyone; you can buy a Falke tight or Charnos,” says Vanessa. “We sell Penelope Bear.” Underwear is also popular at the store: “You’d be gobsmacked by how many people come to Southwold for the weekend and forget to pack pants.” SHOP TALK SHOP TALK

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 5 boutique. MAY 2024 30 21 41 21 FAIRFUNATTHEvisit10tradeshowsto thissummer 16ECOCHICSustainableproductsandbrands 07FASHIONFIX Essentialnewsforwomenswearindies12THEEDITStandoutwomenswearand accessories 18GRIDGOALSToppostsfromthe‘gram 14BOUTIQUELOVES Stylishfashionbuys totemptshoppers 28 FASHION EXTRASjewelleryThismonth’sbestbags, andhomewares 26 ABOUTTIME watchIntroducingaffordableluxury brandChristopheDuchamp 30 PUTTINGONTHEBRITSHomegrownfashionbrandsdesignedintheUK PERSONALGETTING46BiraCEOAndrewGoodacre harnessingontheimportanceof customerdata 36 ONTOA WINNERPerfectingyourentryforFashion IndependentoftheYear2024 41 COASTALCOOL GemmaWardmeetsCollenand ClarefounderVanessaHodgson 48 FRESH FOCUSQuerolDoubleHAgency’sMarc talksnewbrandsand optimismforSS25 38 NEWSEASON UPDATE UpgradeyouroperationswithToptoToe’sintegratedEPoSsystem

Fashion Fix

Young Ideas closes Derby store while unveiling plans to expand Ashbourne flagship

Award-winning independent retail group

Young Ideas has closed its Derby store after trading in the city for over a decade. Owner Anne Wright says the decision was due to its lease agreement ending and follows “13 years of happy trading” in the city. The store’s stock is being consolidated into Young Ideas’ Ashbourne and Litchfield boutiques while its retail team has moved to the group’s flagship.

Anne has also revealed fresh plans to expand its Ashbourne store’s retail space and product range. Work is scheduled to begin at the end of this year and could see up to 1,000sq ft added to the shop floor, either by extending the current building or acquiring another unit. These changes are expected to place alongside wider improvements to the town centre, made possible thanks to a £15 million Levelling Up Fund

investment which the owner played a pivotal role in securing.

“Additional space in the Ashbourne store will mean we can accommodate a wider range and choice of designer collections,” she says. “We are looking forward to making Ashbourne even more of a destination for great fashion and personal service for women and men.

“Our Lichfield store has recently undergone refurbishment too and we are also looking forward to extending the brand range in this store as part of our wider changes. We know from speaking directly to our current Derby customers that most of them will find shopping in Ashbourne or Lichfield a convenient and welcoming alternative. We are lucky to have a very loyal customer base who we know well and will move with us.”

Young Ideas has been trading in Derbyshire for over 50 years but expanded rapidly after Anne

took over the business in 2008. Its Derby boutique first opened in 2011 in the city’s bustling Cathedral Quarter positioned at the front of Bennetts of Derby. However, following the department store’s closure in 2018, Young Ideas relocated to the Derbion shopping centre where it traded for four years.

Elsewhere, the retailer’s sister business Henmores recently opened a second location at countryside retail destination Peak Village. The 3,000sq ft store is located near Derbyshire’s Chatsworth Estate and joins Henmores’ flagship boutique in Ashbourne.

“We are sad to say farewell to Derby,” says Anne. “But we are looking forward to an exciting future as we continue our Young Ideas and Henmores journeys in Ashbourne, Lichfield and Rowsley while actively seeking future opportunities in our target locations.”

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 7

ESSENTIAL NEWS FOR FASHION INDIES

YOUNG IDEAS’ ASHBOURNE STORE

Shoplifting offences rise to highest level in 20 years

Shoplifting offences recorded by police in England and Wales were at the highest level since current records began in 2023, reveal the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

A total of 430,104 offences were recorded in the year to December – rising by 37 per cent compared with the previous 12 months. This marks the highest level of in-store theft documented since current police recording practices began 20 years ago.

Pretty Parade Boutique hosts sellout catwalk show

Greater Manchester indie group

Pretty Parade Boutique hosted a charity catwalk show last week raising £700 for the NSPCC. The sell-out event, held at its local cricket club, was attended by 65 shoppers. Tickets cost £35 each and included a welcome drink, afternoon tea, goodie bag and charity donation. There was also a raffle to raise further funds for the children’s charity.

Co-founder Mollie Butterworth says the team chose “seven gorgeous customers” as models so it could present its SS24 edit across a mix of “different ages, heights and styles.” Around 35 outfits were showcased throughout the afternoon from brands including Pomodoro, Great Plains, Ichi, B Young and Girl in Mind.

“We’re so chuffed with how the event went and how much we managed to raise for the NSPCC,”

The figures come after the British Independent Retailer Association (Bira) revealed the impact theft was having on retailers in its second retail crime study. In a poll, the vast majority of independent retail owners (96 per cent) said in-store theft had worsened over the past 12 months compared to 92 per cent in October 2023.

Julian Hayes, criminal defence lawyer and partner at Berris Law LLP, comments: “The release of the recent shoplifting figures simply demonstrates that the years of austerity and cuts in policing have meant that the investigation of these so-called minor offences have long since been neglected and ignored. The cost to the high street is immeasurable and it is causing shops and businesses to close. The Conservative government cannot be considered the party of law and order.”

CAROLINE & MOLLIE BUTTERWORTH

says Mollie. “It is an incredible charity that carries out extremely important work and our local branch is in need of raising vital funds.”

Pretty Parade Boutique launched online in April 2017 and opened its first physical store in November 2018 followed by a second in July 2022. Today it operates two bricks-and-mortar sites in Rochdale’s Littleborough and nearby Ramsbottom selling pieces chosen by mother-and-daughter duo Caroline and Mollie Butterworth.

CO-FOUNDERS

CHARLOTTE & NAVEED KHAN

Moo Like a Monkey launches circular clothing scheme

Sustainable childrenswear independent Moo Like a Monkey has introduced a new pre-loved clothing initiative to help bolster its greener retailing efforts. Shoppers can exchange outgrown children’s clothes from an approved list of brands –even if they weren’t purchased from the retailer – in return for store credit. The clothing is then being merchandised in a dedicated room at its Canterbury store and sold onto shoppers for affordable price points.

Co-founder Charlotte Khan says she hopes the scheme will help shoppers think more sustainably while increasing in-store footfall: “Our business survived the pandemic and the years following by evolving and responding quickly to what customers need - we know our retail model needs to be nuanced and proactive. Spending is down, and everything costs more. We hope MooCycle will bring in additional footfall without the need to spend cash on launching a new range with new stock.”

Moo Like a Monkey first opened in Folkestone in 2018 selling bright ethically-made childrenswear and sustainable toys. During the pandemic its original shop closed, however it later opened a larger unit on the same street. This was followed by a second store in Canterbury in October 2023.

8 | boutique. | MAY 2024 FASHION FIX

boutique. | 9

WITH A LINE-UP OF OVER 200 BRANDS, HFW IS THE MUST VISIT TRADE SHOW OF THE SUMMER HARROG A TE FASHION WEEK 4 - 6 AUGUST 2024 VIEW THE FULL BRAND LIST AT: WWW.HARROGATEFASHIONWEEK.COM SCAN TO REGISTER

REGISTRATION IS LIVE

The Fashion Huddle announces dates for summer showcase

Joint agency pop-up showroom

The Fashion Huddle is returning to London’s Hammersmith this summer with its largest showcase of agents and brands yet. Now in its fourth season, the next instalment will run for five weeks from Saturday 13 July to Friday 16 August.

The pop-up showroom will be spread over two spaces at Hammersmith’s Huddle and nearby Triangle, which are positioned a short walk away from each other. Buyers will be able to browse the latest collections from a range of UK agents, who collectively represent almost 100 international brands.

The concept was originally spearheaded by The Brand Ambassadors’ Lucy Walsh, who initially teamed up with 11 other agents for AW23 to showcase their collections as a group.

Boutique barometer

This season it will represent even more agents, with those confirmed including Richman Brands, Middleton Green, Joanna Edwards Agency, Magpie, Matrix Fashions, Apt Collections, Extravagance and Ariane Kaiser. Free transport will be provided from Olympia during the weekend of Pure London x JATC and Scoop or buyers can walk to the venue in less than 10 minutes. Retailers can drop-in at any time or contact agents individually to make appointments. + 3.6% -0.48%

Harrogate Fashion Week organisers unveil plans for SS25 edition

Harrogate Fashion Week (HFW) will return to the spa town’s Convention Centre this summer with its “biggest show to date,” say organisers. Taking place from Sunday 4 August – Tuesday 6 August, buyers can expect more exhibitors than previous seasons as well as the addition of a fourth hall.

“We filled our usual three halls very quickly with brands rebooking from the February show, so we’re delighted to be adding a fourth hall,” says cofounder Wendy Adams. “This links seamlessly to the other halls and will also give the show another entrance.”

Over 85 per cent of brands confirmed their return following

February’s show including Pomodoro, Foil, Sahara, Bariloche, Nomads, Olsen, Dolcezza, Lily & Me, D.e.c.k.by Decollage, Vilagallo, Rino & Pelle and the Godske Group. A range of new brands such as Betty Barclay, Peter Kaiser, Blueberry, Soya Concept and Joe Browns will also showcase their latest lines.

Now in its eleventh season, HFW is a popular sourcing destination for independent fashion buyers from around the country. Its most recent edition in February presented its largest selection of autumn/winter collections to date, attracting a 50 per cent increase in visitors on its opening day.

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

10 | boutique. | MAY 2024 FASHION FIX

Average sales quantity Average selling price Profit margin INDUSTRY

-2.37%

SALES FIGURES MARCH 2024 (VS MARCH 2023)

WENDY ADAMS & SARAH MOODY

A trade collective of global designers, brands, buyers, creative minds and inspiring trends Register at purexjatc.com

London Festival of Fashion

Belt up

Offering a modern twist on a classic, Dea Kudibal’s denim jacket will bring interest to dresses and tailored trousers this AW24. £POA; Tel: 07778 158 986 oldstrom.com

Something sweet

French lifestyle brand Saint James creates classic maritimeinspired wardrobe staples for shoppers to invest in every season. For SS24 it has reinvented its timeless Breton tops, knitwear and sweatshirts in pastel hues to bring extra sweetness to your womenswear edit. £POA; Tel: 07539 228 041 E: marc@doublehagency.com

Winter sun

Chase that golden hour glow all year round with Freya Swim’s AW24 collection. Offering a vast choice of onepieces and pop bright bikinis, shoppers will need to book extra baggage allowance for their next getaway. £POA; b2b.wacoal-europe.com

THIS MONTH’S STANDOUT WOMENSWEAR AND ACCESSORIES

Truly timeless

Created by watch expert George Bale, luxury wristwear brand Christophe Duchamp offers highend timepieces for affordable price points. Each of its Swiss-made designs features premium materials and impeccable craftsmanship while the brand also offers a three-year guarantee. Turn to page 26 to find out more. £POA; christopheduchamp.com

Note perfect

Hand-poured in London by founder Danielle Stigwood, Brûler Candles merges style and scent with its beautifully fragranced (and aesthetically pleasing) products. Heroes include its Cashmere Oud Candle featuring top notes of geranium, lychee, rose and pear. £POA; Tel: 07748 633 433 E: info@bruler-candles.com

12 | boutique. | MAY 2024

FASHION FIX

Book now your appointment for SS25 marc@doublehagency.com 07539228041

Share the love

Crafted in gold-plated recycled silver, Claire Hill Designs’ Love is Love coin pendant necklace combines beauty and symbolism in one pretty piece. £POA; clairehilldesignswholesale.co.uk

Power dressing

Put a spin on corporate styling this AW24 with ATP Atelier’s walnut tote bag and bold cow-print flats. £POA; E: sales@atpatelier.com

Boutique loves…

THE FASHION BUYS WE’RE FALLING FOR THIS SPRING

In the red

Perfect for Christmas party edits, British brand House of Holland has created a standout collection for AW24. We love this ultraflattering crimson trouser suit. £POA; E: dody@blackpr.co.uk

Multi-tasker

Streamline your beauty routine with Every & One five-in-one wonder cream. Suitable for the face and body, it can be used as an everyday moisturiser, face wash or cream cleanser as well as a shaving cream and make-up primer. £POA; E: zoe@edenretailconsultancy.co.uk

Into the fold

British female-founded brand Cocorose London has added two designs to its best-selling Clapham range. Each pair can be folded in half to fit easily into handbags and comes with its own travel purse. £POA; Tel: 0208 829 8919 cocoroselondon.com E: gizem@oiaboutique.com

14 | boutique. | MAY 2024

FASHION FIX

Eco chic SUSTAINABLE

PRODUCTS AND BRANDS

Bold & beautiful

Full transparency

Má + Lin’s French-inspired blouses are ethically crafted in Portugal using 100 per cent certified European linen. Each garment is fully traceable from field to garment warehouse, with a supply chain map available to view on its website. £POA; E: yue.jiang@ma-lin.uk

Designed for all body types, Thicks and Bones manufactures its sustainable swimwear collection in the UK using recycled fabrics. Expect bold designs and daring shapes that celebrate every woman. Available in sizes XS-XXL, £POA; E: thicksandbones@gmail.com

Time to bloom

Barcelona-born womenswear brand Dr Bloom produces colourful and conscious garments featuring vibrant hues, unique prints and tactile textures. Its team sources natural materials such as cotton, wool and eco-viscose at a fair price, collaborating with suppliers that share similar values. £POA; E: capsula.drbloom@gmail.com drbloom.es

Layering piece

Made from soft organic cotton, Coster Copenhagen’s never-out-of-stock CC Heart oversized sweatshirt is a great choice for cooler spring days. £POA; Tel: 0045 5084 9855 costercopenhagen.com

Do the twist

Handcrafted using sustainable materials and coloured stones, Amelia Scott’s Lola Emerald Cut Necklace is perfect for bringing extra sparkle to everyday outfits. We love its mismatched figaro and rope twist chain. £POA; E: hello@amelia-scott.com

16 | boutique. | MAY 2024

FASHION FIX

Buyers Festival, Harrogate, 21 - 24 July 2024

homeandgift.co.uk 15% bigger and better than 2023 Brighter Days, Better Buys on the Horizon Regist er now

www.homeandgift.co.uk

#Grid goals

@shopatanna

“Big thanks to everyone who came to our Brazilian Summer party. More pics from our fab event to come and hopefully more fantastic events soon too!”

@tigerlilyboutiquescotland

“We are still not over how amazing our Edinburgh opening evening was! Thank you to everyone who came along and celebrated with us…”

Social

@the_fashion_ huddle

Follow the Instagram account for multi-agent pop-up showroom

The Fashion Huddle for the latest launches, news and showing dates.

@foxandfeatheruk

“…I started Fox + Feather as I was so bored of the high street chains, and all the cool independent boutiques stocked labels that were out of my price range…”

@sassyandboo

“A little behind-the-scenes of our NEW Broadway shop. It’s all coming together nicely; we will let you know the official opening date soon…”

Female-owned indie fashion brand

Cara and the Sky posts daily photos and reels featuring its sustainable knitwear alongside live chats with its eponymous founder.

THREE INSPIRATIONAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS TO FOLLOW NOW

Northampton independent 32 The Guild mixes its Insta content with inspiring reels and styling ideas showing founder Zoie Walker’s latest product picks.

18 | boutique. | MAY 2024 FASHION FIX

butterflies

@caraandthesky

@32theguild

THE LONDON SHOWCASE FOR LINGERIE, NIGHTWEAR AND RESORT LABELS

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Stock Up

Buying season is almost upon us and summer’s trade shows will soon be unveiling the latest products, trends and business insight. Here we highlight 10 top fashion fairs to visit in 2024…

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WHAT TO BUY NOW

Talent spotting

TEXWORLD PARIS

Fun at the fair

10 TOP FASHION TRADE SHOWS TO VISIT THIS SUMMER

1. TEXWORLD PARIS

WHEN: 1 – 3 July

WHERE: Porte de Versailles, Paris

CATEGORIES: womenswear, leather wear, accessories, knitwear, leisurewear and childrenswear

REASONS TO VISIT: Attracting buyers from all around the world, Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris showcases over 1,000 international textile and clothing exhibitors. The event comprises four separate shows: Apparel Sourcing, Avantex, Texworld and Leatherworld. Buyers can find everything from luxury ready-to-wear and accessories to sustainable fashion and innovative fabrics all under one roof. This season will also see the introduction of a new pavilion, co-hosted by Shanghai’s Yarn Expo, showcasing cutting edge yarn producers from China, India, Pakistan and Taiwan.

ENTRY: free – register via texworld-paris.fr.messefrankfurt.com

WHEN: 14 – 16 July

WHERE: Olympia London

CATEGORIES: womenswear and menswear; genderneutral, sustainable and young fashion; footwear, accessories, jewellery, beauty and lifestyle

KEY BRANDS: Vilagallo, La Fée Maraboutée, ACCESS, AX Paris, Humilty, Leo Guy, Brakeburn, Godske, LueL, Americandreams

WHY VISIT: Following its successful debut as a unified show last season, Pure London x JATC will return to Olympia for the second time this summer. The three-day show promises to showcase an exciting mix of established brands and emerging designers across several key categories. Led by new partner Trendhub by BDA London, the overarching theme of this summer’s edition is ‘Immersive Encounters,’ which will be brought to life on the show’s catwalk. Buyers will also be able to find business inspiration and insight delivered by leading industry expert on the main stage (programme TBC). Meanwhile, organisers run an invitation-only hosted buyers programme offering access to a dedicated lounge with free wifi, cloakroom and refreshments.

ENTRY: Free – register via purelondon.com

WHEN: 14 – 16 July

WHERE: Olympia West, London

CATEGORIES: designer womenswear, premium accessories

KEY BRANDS: Poupette St Barth, Majestic, TreBarraBi, Pearl and Caviar, Sans Archidet, Seema, Transit, Tandem, Devotion Twins, Les Filles D’Ailleurs

WHY VISIT: Specialising in premium fashion and accessories, Scoop has become a go-to buying destination for leading indie retailers. This season’s show will return to Olympia West and run alongside Pure London x JATC. Expect premium womenswear, luxury home, beauty,

lifestyle and menswear brands showcased in an inspiring (and beautifully decorated) environment.

ENTRY: free – register via scoop-international.com/page/ visitor-registration

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TRADE SHOW GUIDE

3. SCOOP 2. PURE LONDON X JATC

4. SOURCE FASHION

WHEN: 14 – 16 July

WHERE: London Olympia

CATEGORIES: garments, fabrics, packaging, design and technology

WHY VISIT: Taking place alongside Pure London x JATC and Scoop, Source Fashion offers indie buyers a gateway to manufacturers. Visitors can source everything from white-label products to bespoke ranges from audited exhibitors. This season will see an increased focus on UK manufacturers as well as an expansion to the upstairs balcony of Olympia’s National Hall to host Source Luxury. The event also includes

5. INDX WOMAN

WHEN: 21 – 23 July

WHERE: Cranmore Park Conference and Exhibition Centre, Solihull

6. HOME & GIFT

WHEN: 21 – 24 July

WHERE: Harrogate Convention Centre and grounds of the DoubleTree by Hilton Majestic Hotel

CATEGORIES: gifts, jewellery, fashion, food, craft and home accessories

KEY BRANDS: Chalk, Elizabeth Scarlett, Half Moon Bay, La De Da Living, Forever England, Roka London, Toasted Crumpet, Ohh Deer, Joe Davides, Upper Canada

WHY VISIT: A fixture on the UK trade show calendar for over 60 years, summer’s Home and Gift will showcase hundreds of brands across a new expanded footprint. Buyers

a content programme featuring responsible catwalk shows and discussions from industry experts.

ENTRY: Free – register via source-fashion.com

KEY BRANDS: Brakeburn, Joe Browns, Sahara, Joules, Luella Grey, Ravel, Alice Collins, Envy Bags, Nomads, Nova Leathers, Up Pants, Sahara, Nomads, Lily & Me

CATEGORIES: womenswear, footwear and accessories

REASONS TO VISIT: A unique show specially curated for independents, INDX Woman brings together the latest womenswear, accessories and footwear for an inspiring three-day showcase. The event has been growing in popularity for the past two seasons with organisers reporting a notable rise in attending buyers. With a focus on order writing in a friendly yet professional environment, visitors making their selections during the event will be able to access exclusive exhibitor discounts. Organisers also say the next edition will include free networking events and businessfocused seminars (full programme TBC). Buyers can also expect free onsite parking and complimentary refreshments - including barista coffee - served throughout the day.

ENTRY: Free - register via indxshows.co.uk/indx-fashion/ womenswear/registration

can expect over 15 per cent more exhibitors than its 2023 edition, with products spaced throughout four halls in the Harrogate Convention Centre and at various Design Points in nearby hotel grounds. There will also be lots of newness, with many brands making

their show debut. Buyers can also attend a range of social gatherings after hours including the Monday night Home & Gift Show Party and Tuesday evening’s Pimms on the Lawn.

ENTRY: free – register via homeandgift.co.uk

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TRADE SHOW GUIDE

7. HARROGATE FASHION WEEK

WHEN: 4 – 6 August

WHERE: Harrogate Convention Centre

CATEGORIES: womenswear, accessories and footwear as well as the largest selection of occasionwear in the country

KEY BRANDS: Rino & Pelle, Vilagallo, Pomodoro, Carol C Collections, Dolcezza, Godske Group, John Charles, Alice Collins, Rosa Clara, Veromia, Bianca, Lily & Me, Carla Ruiz

WHY VISIT: Harrogate Fashion

Week will present its largest line-up of brands to date to buyers this summer. Organisers have been so inundated with bookings that they’ve had to extend the show floor into a fourth hall. The expansion means there will be two separate entrances, making it easier for buyers to gain entry. Over 200

brands are expected to unveil their collections across several womenswear categories including daywear, eventwear, eveningwear, footwear and accessories. Buyers can take time to reset at the show’s Prosecco Bar (serving free drinks at specified times) and network at its drinks party after orders

close on the first day. There’s also accessible parking and a free cloakroom, plus organisers have partnered with local hotels to offer special discounts for buyers (visit the show’s website for more information).

ENTRY: Free – register via harrogatefashionweek.com

8. FOOTWEAR TODAY LIVE

WHEN: 12 - 13 August

WHERE: National Conference Centre (NCC), Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull

CATEGORIES: Footwear, shoe accessories, bags, purses, leather goods

KEY BRANDS: Rieker, Bugatti, Caprice, Tamaris, Chatham, ART, Fly London, Joseph Siebel, Peter Kaiser, Geox WHY VISIT: Since arriving on the trade show scene in 2022, Footwear Today Live has experienced rapid

growth. Visitors can find an inspiring line-up of over 130 footwear brands showing their latest ranges. Its floor space now encompasses nine different halls across two separate levels, taking over most of the NCC. Organisers say the event is easy to navigate and offers plenty of space to browse. With a focus on convenience and experience, buyers (and exhibitors) are served complementary lunch and refreshments. Plus, there’s free on-site parking positioned right outside the front door as well as a complimentary shuttle running from Birmingham International train station. ENTRY: Free – register via footwearstockrooms.co.uk

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TRADE SHOW GUIDE

10. LONDON SHOE SHOW

WHEN: 8 – 9 September

WHERE: Copthorne Tara Hotel, Kensington, London

CATEGORIES: Footwear, shoe accessories, bags, purses, leather goods

KEY BRANDS: HB Shoes, Caprice, Peter Kaiser, Hogl, Hassia, Nerogiardini, XTI, Carmella, Regarde Le Ciel, Bugatti

WHY VISIT: Spread across three large rooms inside Kensington’s Copthorne Tara Hotel, the London Shoe Show presents the latest collections from hundreds of footwear brands in the heart of the capital. The unique event – hosted by Footwear Today magazine -

9. MODA

WHEN: 1 – 4 September

WHERE: NEC Birmingham

CATEGORIES: womenswear, accessories, footwear, jewellery and watches

KEY BRANDS: Nova of London, Jess & Lou, D&X, Miss Shorthair, Amber Hall Jewellery, Berber Leather, Big Metal, Saloos, Ashwood Leather, Lunar, Lighthouse Clothing, Jessica Graaf

WHY VISIT: Located within home and gift show Autumn Fair, Moda is one of the UK’s longest-standing fashion fairs. The four-day event showcases the latest womenswear, footwear and accessories across two dedicated halls. Buyers can browse four key fashion sectors – Clothing, Footwear, Fashion Accessories and Jewellery and Watch – to discover the latest products and trends. The Moda Catwalk, meanwhile, also runs a full programme of events including regular trend-led catwalks and informative expert talks. Elsewhere at the show buyers can find a huge selection of lifestyle products - from furniture and home accessories to skincare, greetings cards and toys.

ENTRY: Free – register via autumnfair.com

unveils the sector’s latest trends, materials and designs from leading suppliers. Visitors can expect a relaxed yet professional buying experience in an easy-to-access

location. Free refreshments are also served to buyers and exhibitors throughout the two-day show.

ENTRY: Free – register via www.londonshoeshow.co.uk

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TRADE SHOW GUIDE

About time

CHRISTOPHE DUCHAMP’S LUXE SWISS-MADE WATCHES ARE TRULY TIMELESS

The wristwatch has been – and always will be – an alluring accessory. As well as the function of telling the time, the right timepiece can instantly elevate any outfitjust like shoes or a handbag.

The rich and famous love luxury watches. Taylor Swift wore one around her neck as a choker (a custommade Lorraine Schwartz, no less) to February’s Grammys, cleverly referencing her Midnights album. Rihanna did it before her at Paris Fashion Week. Then, at last year’s half-time Super Bowl performance, she wore a red diamond-encrusted wristwatch to coordinate with her Loewes boilersuit.

For us mere mortals, such luxury is a difficult trend to follow. But there’s one watchmaker who’s been gaining our attention.

Priced at a fraction of the cost, Christophe Duchamp’s Swiss-made timepieces boast similar quality as those produced by luxury high-end brands. Its designs, divided into five collections for women and nine for men, are carefully manufactured in Mendrisio, Switzerland – motherland to some of the most renowned watchmakers in the world.

George Bale, a horology expert with over 15 years’ industry experience, first launched the UK-based brand in 2021 “to put luxury Swiss timepieces on the wrists of those who can’t afford a Rolex.” He says: “A Duchamp watch epitomises luxury. Our designs draw inspiration from horology greats like AP, Patek Philippe and Rolex.” 1.Élysées

In just three years, his brand has garnered a loyal following, securing partnerships with QPR, Hibernian and Swansea football clubs as well as Ospreys rugby. It also sponsors a team of Lamborghini GT racing cars, an around-the-world yacht team and is the official timekeeper at the Prince of Wales Trophy Polo final. Now it has its sights set on cornering the global affordable luxury watch market having taken on distributors in Europe, South Africa and Australia. But George isn’t just focused on world domination: “We use renewable or low carbon energy when crafting our timepieces while our packaging is also recyclable,” he says. “Next year we plan to share profits with three global charities to help clean up our oceans, save endangered animals and fund medics for war zones.”

Affordable, high-end watches from a UK brand that considers the planet? It’s about time.

Retail prices range from £1,450 to £2,995. Boutique magazine readers can access an exclusive 80 per cent discount on the RRP price until the end of June 2024 using code: BOUTIQUE80. Find out more via christopheduchamp.com

Powered by Swiss movement, the bestselling Élysées watch is exceptionally precise and reliable. Its strap and face are engineered from the finest quality stainless steel then finished with 11 precision-cut diamonds for extra sparkle.

2. Lugano Six

A Swiss-made masterpiece fusing tradition with modern sophistication, the Lugano Six boasts a mother of pearl dial and elegant Roman numerals to mark each hour. Choose from several colour combinations including this dazzling purple and silver.

3. Audace

A bold and classic design for men offering the ultimate simplicity in date horology. Expect Swiss-made automatic movement, a fluted bezel and jubilee bracelet. It’s a true timeless investment piece that will be worn for years to come.

26 | boutique. | MAY 2024 PROMOTION

1 2 THE WATCH LIST

WWW.CHRISTOPHEDUCHAMP.COM

L’envie timepiece Swiss made

Fashion Extras

GEMMA WARD PICKS

OUT SPRING’S MOST TEMPTING ACCESSORIES

Raise your glasses

Elevate your eyewear with Coti Vision’s recycled acrylic Amore Italia Duetto glasses chain. Attach the silicone ends to your frames or wear alone as a statement necklace. £POA; E: info@cotivision.com cotivision.com

Out of this world

Made using recycled and biodegradable plantbased acetates, the Avantguard’s Cosmos sunglasses boast a flattering frame and wrap-around lenses. £POA; theavantguard.com

Smart thinking

Stylish and practical, Summery Copenhagen’s beaded iPhone bag is the perfect accessory for transporting much-needed tech this SS24. £POA; E: tadas@summerycopenhagen.com summerycopenhagen.com

Strike gold

With a focus on timeless and sustainable jewellery, Oia Boutique offers contemporary gold-plated necklaces, earrings and rings for affordable price points. £POA; E: gizem@oiaboutique.com

Happy days

Stay cool in the sunshine with Samsøe Samsøe’s 100 per cent cotton Safiffi bucket hat. In its sweet pea stripe print, it’s a timeless summer essential for at home and abroad. £POA; E: vitus@samsoe.com

Slim shady

Putting an end to bulky sunglasses cases, NAOA’s slim apple-leather design fits into the smallest of handbags - making it ideal for whenever shoppers are on the go. £POA; E: assistant@naodesign.com naodesign. com/pages/contact-us

Triple threat

Featuring foot-hugging cork soles, Celtic and Co’s Triple Strap leather sandals combine style and comfort in one fell swoop. £POA; Tel: 0333 400 044 E: trade@celticandco.uk celticandco.com

Pretty in print

Fable England’s Meadow Creatures backpack offers a whimsical tribute to spring with its pretty woodland and botanical-festooned print £POA; Tel: 0203 397 5885 E: trade@fableengland.com

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ACCESSORIES

Good for the sole

Available in three colourways, Cocorose London’s studded Hoxton fashion trainers boast comfortdriven features such as doublecushioned insoles and deep heel padding. £POA; Tel: 0208 829 8919 cocoroselondon.com

Sweet treat

Enriched with sustainably sourced sweet almond oil, L’Occitane’s Almond Delicious Shower Cream envelopes the body in hydration and a captivating scent. £POA; E: contact@loccitane.co.uk

Check things out

Stay stylish in the rain with Barbour’s Tartan Mini Umbrella, featuring a wooden crooked wooden handle with engraved logo. £POA; Tel: 0191 496 9538 E: sales@barbour.com

Something blue

Handcrafted by Canadian jewellery designer Rose Scaglione and Colombian filigree artisans, Richness N Simplicity makes its debut this SS24 offering striking pieces with intricate beauty. £POA; E: richnessnsimplicity@gmail.com

Off the wall

Featuring a contemporary theatre dial and matt asparagus green case, Newgate’s Number Four clock is an easy update for any space. Available in four colourways, £POA; newgatetrade.com

Spring florals

Update your spring skincare line-up with Dalia Bontanique’s rejuvenating Botanical Serum, handmade in the Yorkshire countryside. £POA; E: info@daliabotanique.co.uk

Wear with pride

Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community ahead of next month’s Pride by stocking Jeff and the Squirrel’s biodegradable rainbow pin badge. £POA; E: hello@jeffandthesquirrel.co.uk jeffandthesquirrel.co.uk

Daily shop

Durable and lightweight, Chalk’s Sammy Shopper is made with 100 per cent natural material and features strong stitched handles - making it the perfect everyday accessory. 2pk £28; wholesale.chalkuk.com

On the cards

British wholesaler Rex London has produced a line of stylish-yetaffordable greetings cards that are perfect for special occasions. £POA; rexlondontrade.com

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ACCESSORIES

Bring on the Brits

CELEBRATE GREAT BRITISH DESIGN WITH THESE UK-BORN FASHION BRANDS

POMODORO

Designed and partly manufactured in the UK, 30-year-old womenswear label Pomodoro creates modern, feminine fashion for confident women. For SS25, its collection is inspired by global trends. Expect an eclectic mix of dresses and separates in a plethora of vibrant tones that will transport shoppedrs to exotic destinations. Lightweight linen, crisp cotton and drapey viscose fabrics strike the perfect balance between smart and casual. Standout pieces includes its dreamy watercolour print dress with flowing silhouette, springperfect utility shirts in both print and plain as well as its updated best-selling linen trouser suit that can be worn separately or together for maximum impact. Wholesale prices are around £25 per piece on average while the minimum order requirement is £1,000.

CONTACT: Tel: 020 8961 4000 E: info@pomodoroclothing.com

WKNDGIRL

Young fashion label WKNDGIRL launched in 2023 offering affordable wardrobe staples for stylish Gen Zedders. Designed inhouse in Leicester, its collections are carefully curated to take shoppers from their weekend downtime to dancing until dawn. Expect elevated essentials such as oversized tees, smart shirts and stylish activewear combined with one-of-kind statement dresses, coordinates and tailored suits. Blending quality and affordability, the label’s collection embodies a carefree weekend mindset that can adapted for every day. Showing at Pure London x JATC (stand G65). CONTACT: wkndgirl.com

MATILDA LONDON

Blending American, European, and Middle Eastern design influences, Matilda London offers a sustainable collection featuring handmade dresses, separates and outerwear. The brand is the creation of founder and designer Tia Abou Rahal, who prides herself on creating beautifully made timeless essentials that are carefully crafted to last. Key pieces for SS25 include holiday heroes such as linen blend maxi dresses, smart trousers and matching summer blazers as well as elegant statement tops. The brand also creates head-turning eveningwear that’s perfect for the Christmas party season. Showing at Pure London x JATC (stand D18).

CONTACT: matilda-london.com

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STOCK UP

MARBLE

Glasgow-based womenswear label

Marble is the brainchild of former independent retailers Nick and Lynne Williams. Its contemporary collection combines flattering silhouettes in quality fabrics. Buyers can expect elegant dresses, separates and knitwear in tempting textures and beautiful bespoke prints. Its design team is dedicated to producing the highest quality garments that boast strong sellthrough rates and low returns. The brand doesn’t sell directly to consumers so it’s never in competition with its retail partners. Meanwhile, it only supplies bricksand-mortar retailers to minimise the risk of early online discounting. Lastly, because it only makes its collections to order, there’s no chance of finding unsold pieces on the rails of clearance stores.

CONTACT: Tel 0141 882 6743 marblefashions.co.uk

COTI VISION

British female-founded brand Coti Vision revolutionised the glasses market with its trendled necklace reading glasses and chains. Conceived by Julie Hawkins and Nancy Gries, their vision was to provide a stylish solution that would help women keep their glasses within reach. Its range includes its chunky acrylic Classic Glasses Chain in numerous colours and designs as well as smaller bead-style necklaces, with each featuring clear silicone ends that attach to most frames. Many of its products incorporate recycled and natural materials such as its handmade Amore Italia Chains.

CONTACT: E: info@cottvision.com cotivision.com

LILY & ME

Lily and Me injects joy into everyday wardrobes with its designed-in-the-UK womenswear and accessories. The Gloucestershire-based label creates unique prints and timeless shapes boasting quality and wearability. With the natural world as its muse, its collections are characterised by a casual sense of style, happy personality and colourful approach to fashion. The label’s familyrun team is committed to ethical manufacturing and reducing its environmental impact. Its pieces are produced at its own factory in Nepal where it has full control over employment practices, production, supply chain and logistics. Working closely with global fabric suppliers, it also delivers more sustainable options every season crafted in organic cotton, Lenzing, Eco-Vero and Eco-Tang. Wholesale prices are from £7 - £25 per piece while the minimum order requirement is £1,500.

CONTACT: Tel: 01452 207 766 lilyandmeclothing.com

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 31

STOCK UP

Sigal Distribution 01784-482888 sigaldistribution@gmail.com www.sigaldistribution.com

Down to Business

s shoplifting and returns fraud cases continue to rise, we share some expert advice on minimising the impact on your business…

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INSIGHT

INDIES THE NIX COMPANY ON UNSPLASH

FOR FASHION

Security alert

Cut your losses

WHY SHOPLIFTING CASES ARE ON THE RISE (AND WHAT RETAILERS CAN DO ABOUT IT)

Retail shrinkage is a rather innocuous term for an epidemic problem: the loss of unsold inventory through shoplifting, return fraud, employee theft and admin error. It’s estimated to cost retailers in the UK some £8 billion a year - the highest in Europe. And it’s a problem that’s increased by around 33 per cent since 2018, driven by surging shoplifting incidents. Hardly surprising then that retailers are increasingly concerned about shrinkage. But while the problem is clear, what to do about it is less so. Of course, it’s a highly nuanced issue that negatively impacts both the top and bottom lines. However, the good news is that there are opportunities for retailers to minimise the resulting losses.

A growing concern

The UK’s retail sector is a dynamic mosaic of diverse businesses, each facing specific challenges. While retail shrinkage is just one of these, it’s an issue that has risen rapidly in the past year or so. It’s a multifaceted problem that demands a comprehensive understanding of the specific loss source and ever-expanding array of causes. These range from external and internal theft to process/control failures, wastage, damage and a few other factors that are harder to pin down.

These sources of retail shrinkage are currently being compounded by several other issues. Perhaps the most obvious is economic headwinds, as inflation and the cost-of-living crisis put both

retailers and consumers under financial pressure, potentially affecting shrinkage rates and security investments.

But there are also other contributory factors at play such as ineffective loss prevention strategies, as retailers with outdated approaches struggle to keep pace with changes such as shoplifters’ evolving tactics. For supermarkets specifically, the adoption of new checkout technologies is having unintended consequences. The rise of the self-service checkout, for example, offer guilt-free (and more convenient) ways to shoplift. Meanwhile, we’re also seeing the effects of factors from outside the industry. One is the UK Government’s Anti-

DOWN TO BUSINESS

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Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 20144, under which shoplifting below a value of £200 was re-categorised as anti-social behaviour, meaning offenders are more likely to be fined without a court appearance – thus reducing the perceived risks. Another is the rise of organised crimes through social media where shoplifters exchange methods to glamorise and promote theft.

Loss

adjusting

Whatever the causes, the effect of rising retail shrinkage is haunting UK retailers for several reasons. One is the financial impact, which is to reduce the industry’s collective annual turnover by 1.1 per cent – a burden that falls mainly on supermarkets but also affects fashion retailers. This loss of revenue has caused some retailers to save costs through staff reductions, which can have knock-on effect on service quality, customer experience and brand reputation. And when stock runs out because of shrinkage, customers may shop elsewhere. Overall, it’s estimated that UK consumers are ‘crime taxed’ by an average of £0.06 on every single product they buy because of shoplifting.

Alongside the effects on customers, shrinkage also impacts retailers’ operations. Asking staff to verify stock levels and keep an eye on products puts a downward pressure on service and efficiency. Shrinkage can also be associated with violence. Reported instances of retail abuse in the UK has risen by around 50 per cent in the past year to around 1,300 incidents a day.

Tackling the problem

An effective shrinkage management plan requires the orchestration of an ecosystem where a retailer clearly defines, communicates and executes targeted actions across the business. And tackling shrinkage successfully will require the right policies and processes, together with the right people to execute them – empowered with the right technology and assets. With these building blocks in place, the UK retail industry can progress towards a future where shrinkage is not merely a challenge to overcome but an opportunity for transformative growth and resilience.

Written by Rajvinder Uppal, Brittojegan Mariapaulraj and Amit Kumar Gupta at global technology solutions firm Cognizant; cognizant.com

4 WAYS TO REDUCE SHRINKAGE

1. Collaboration

A united industry is better equipped to tackle shrinkage collectively. Closer collaboration around this challenge between retailers, technology providers and industry associations fosters an environment where insights are shared, and best practices are collectively refined.

2. Spreading awareness

From front-line staff to owners, spreading awareness about the impacts of shrinkage and the role everyone can play in prioritising actions and preventing causes is crucial in tackling losses effectively.

3. Balancing compliance and security

Understanding the regulatory framework surrounding retail shrinkage is imperative. Advocating for policies that strike a balance between compliance and security will help to create an environment where retailers can address shrinkage pro-actively without coming up against unnecessary barriers.

4. Shaping the future

The continued integration of cutting-edge technologies into the retail landscape with play a major role in reducing and preventing future losses from shrinkage. Artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics and advanced surveillance systems promise to make loss prevention strategies more effective and efficient. GenAI offers solutions to detect unexpected transactions and help retailers forecast more accurately to optimise inventory levels.

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 35 DOWN TO BUSINESS

ALEX GRUBER ON UNSPLASH

Simply the best

DO YOU WANT TO BE NAMED

FASHION INDEPENDENT OF THE YEAR 2024?

Are you a brilliant bricks-and-mortar fashion boutique with a solid track record, dedicated customer base and expertly curated brand mix? If so, now could be your time to shine as Fashion Independent of the Year 2024!

The winner of this award will be an outstanding and inspirational business that successfully combines an exemplary shopping experience and service with a coveted product edit.

To enter, entrants are required to answer five questions outlining a solid business plan, buying strategy and future growth plan as well as showing signs they’ve remained agile through recent economic challenges.

Judges will be looking for an outstanding retailer for this award that shows all-round excellence - from store design and brand line-up to social media and online presence. Retailers entering this award can stock several product categories but womenswear, menswear or childrenswear must command its largest percentage of sales.

Previous winners include Domino Style, Biscuit Clothing and Living and Young Ideas. So, do you have what it takes to follow in their footsteps?

This year’s winners’ party will take place at London’s May Fair Hotel on Thursday 7 November. Tickets go on sale this summer; E: julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk for more details as well as information on sponsorships.

HOW TO ENTER

Enter your business via boutique-magazine.co.uk/ submit-an/entry or return your answers on a form by email (full details available online) before Wednesday 31 July 2024. Industry insiders can also nominate their favourite fashion independents – or put forward businesses for any other category - via boutiquemagazine.co.uk/nominate/

36 | boutique. | MAY 2024 DOWN TO BUSINESS

DOMINO STYLE & POMODORO

9 REASONS TO ENTER

1. Set your business apart

Winning an award is always good for business. And winning a Boutique Star Award means suppliers, customers and your team will know you’re officially the best in the industry. Plus, it will add extra kudos to your brand, service and product offering among customers too.

2. Free marketing

Being able to call yourself an award-winning boutique is one of the best marketing tools money can’t buy. Those that make the shortlist receive free marketing content while the winner also receives a glass trophy for their mantelpiece.

3. Secure brands

You’re undoubtedly well respected in your local area, but gaining a place on the shortlist will also put your boutique on the map among suppliers.

4. Boost sales (and loyalty)

The prestige that comes with being shortlisted for an award can help attract new customers and build loyalty, cementing your position as a truly outstanding business.

5. Only indies can enter

The Boutique Star Awards are only open to independent businesses – meaning you won’t be competing with huge corporations with colossal budgets to get short-listed or win a trophy.

6. It doesn’t cost anything

You don’t have to pay to enter the Boutique Star Awards (although, if you’re shortlisted, you may want to attend the winners’ party).

7. The awards are credible

ST AR AW ARDS 2024

ABOUT THE AWARDS

First launched in 2019, the Boutique Star Awards celebrates the industry’s best independent retailers, agents and brands. The competition is open to all fashion and lifestyle indies across the country operating bricks-and-mortar businesses as well as brands and individuals working in the industry. It is the only competition of its kind in the UK and highlights the triumphs of fashion indies while giving recognition for their hard work and achievements.

All entries are scrutinised by an independent judging panel made up of industry insiders who are passionate about indies and want to reward the most deserving businesses.

8. It’s good for morale

Industry awards are a great way to celebrate your team. Submitting an entry will show your employees how much you truly value and respect their hard work. And if you’re selected for the shortlist, the excitement (and prospect of accepting the trophy at the winners’ party) can provide a real morale boost.

9. We all need an excuse to celebrate

This year’s winners’ party will take place on Thursday 7 November at London’s May Fair Hotel. Everyone is invited and we can guarantee fizz, delicious food, good company and an after-ceremony dance party.

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 37 DOWN TO BUSINESS

DOMINO STYLE MINIMUMAXIMUM

System upgrade

RUN YOUR BUSINESS MORE EFFICIENTLY WITH TOP TO TOE’S INTEGRATED FASHION RETAIL SYSTEM

As an independent fashion retailer in 2024, you’ll most likely be selling across multiple platforms as well as operating several social media accounts. These days, technology is a non-negotiable part of running a retail business.

Of course, with retail and shopper demands changing so rapidly, it can be difficult to keep up. That’s where an EPoS system comes in. And preferably one that’s been specifically designed to help fashion indies run their entire business more efficiently.

Top to Toe has been helping retail owners manage their businesses more efficiently since the 1986. Its EPoS, stock management and e-commerce integrated system has been especially developed with fashion retailers in mind, helping to save time dramatically while boosting sales.

Having worked closely with fashion retailers for over three decades, Top to Toe has designed its system to solve the unique challenge of handling products that come in size and colour variants. Rather than listing each product variation separately, it organises the data in an easy-to understand matrix grid. Users can view a clear matrix size/ colour grid in one single click, speeding up stock entries, stock look up, sales reporting, order views and more.

The system features give retailers clear insight into stock levels and strong (as well as weak) performers. This means buyers can react accordingly to increase sales, whether mid-season or while selecting new lines.

“Top to Toe has a totally unique structure,” says founder Michael Bloom. “Rather than wading through menus and submenus, retailers have a single, customisable, flexible hub screen (which we call a Focus Screen) where they can complete all major tasks. It's so informative because everything is all together on the same screen and there's very little navigation needed, so this makes things much, much simpler. Navigation in other systems is far more complex and time consuming.”

Within Top to Toe, retailers can also auto-fire products onto their own websites, Shopify, eBay, Amazon and many more without third parties – making it easier to sell products across various online platforms.

The system is one of the mostly highly rated on the market, with fashion retailers scoring it a 4.9/5 across major review platforms. In a recent survey, 93 per cent of the retail owners polled said Top to Toe saves them up to two hours’ work every day compared to their previous system.

The company offers retailers unlimited one-to-one system training as well as technical phone support. Top to Toe’s team also manages data conversion projects to make transferring to its system as easy as possible. “We truly care about our clients having first-class software,” concludes Michael. “We’re proud of our product and we want to give retailers the specialist fashion tools they need to prosper and grow.”

38 | boutique. | MAY 2024 CONTACT: Tel: 0203 376 5888 toptotoe.com

DOWN TO BUSINESS

ANNE FURBANK USING TOP TO TOE

RETAILER AWARDS

Fashion Independent of the Year

Independent Group of the Year

Social Media Strategy of the Year

New Independent of the Year

Sustainability Advocate of the Year

Community Hero of the Year

NEW: Independent Employer of the Year

NEW: Store Design of the Year

NEW: Shop Window of the Year

SUPPLIER AWARDS

British Brand of the Year

International Brand of the Year

Fashion Agency of the Year

Fashion Distributor of the Year

Female-Founded Brand of the Year

Sustainable Brand of the Year

NEW: Footwear Brand of the Year

NEW: Jewellery Brand of the Year

NEW: EPoS Provider of the Year

SPECIAL AWARDS

ST AR AW ARDS 2024 CELEBRATING INDEPENDENT FASHION RETAILERS AND SUPPLIERS DON’T MISS OUT ON THE PARTY OF THE YEAR! For entry and ticket information please contact julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk

Newcomer Lifetime Achievement Outstanding Business

2024 Categories

Shop Talk

INDUSTRY OPINION

Making waves

Since opening in the seaside town of Southwold in 2003, Collen and Clare has become renowned for its exciting product edit, eyecatching windows and old-fashioned customer service. Here founder Vanessa Hodgson recounts its 21year history and shares her plans for its continued success…

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 41

VANESSA HODGSON, COLLEN AND CLARE

Coastal cool

A PROMINENT FEATURE OF SOUTHWOLD’S RETAIL LANDSCAPE, COLLEN AND CLARE’S TRIPLE-FRONTED DESTINATION STORE HAS BEEN DELIGHTING SHOPPERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS. HERE FOUNDER VANESSA HODGSON SHARES HER REMARKABLE STORY OF SELLING CITY FASHION BY THE SEA

Dominating one corner of Southwold’s Market Place, Collen and Clare’s immaculately dressed windows are often the first thing shoppers look for when visiting the seaside town. In fact, what the mannequins are wearing is now so eagerly anticipated that the retailer has introduced a weekly ‘shop the window’ feature on its website: “We’re renowned for our windows,” says owner Vanessa Hodgson. “Mixing up labels to create unique looks is the principal job of a multi-brand independent like us; it’s something we do well.”

Collen and Clare is very much like a department store’s much cooler little sister - with an exemplary service to match. Behind its blue façade sits 3,500sq ft of retail space spanning four separate rooms on a single floor. Inside shoppers can find a treasure

trove of seductive fashion buys – from pop-bright Vilagallo dresses to classic Weekend MaxMara separates. There are timeless Mulberry handbags, vibrant Wushu Ruyi trainers and sustainable denim by Seventy and Mochi. Customers can stock up on cosmetics, skincare and unique homewares. And with a dedicated menswear room, male shoppers are well catered for, too.

The retailer has amassed a staunch customer base since opening in 2003 – from local celebrities and CEOs to day trippers and tourists. Over the years it has been lauded by the national press - just last month it was chosen by fashion blogger Emma Paton for The Telegraph’s list of ‘50 greatest boutiques’.

Yet it hasn’t all been plain sailing for Vanessa - despite the store’s

location by the sea. But, with the help of her 17-strong team, the owner has successfully steered the business through numerous challenges including a significant restructure in the throes of the pandemic.

City living

Back in the 1990s, Vanessa – a farmer’s daughter – had a high-flying career in investment banking. But after a decade of fast living in the city, she wanted to return to Suffolk to pursue her own business dream: “I was approaching 30 and worried I wouldn’t like myself in another ten years if I continued on the same path.”

The would-be retail owner had seen potential in her hometown of Southwold for a shop selling fashion she wanted to buy. Located on East Anglia’s coast, the affluent seaside town is a weekend bolthole

42 | boutique. | MAY 2024

SHOP TALK

for scores of Londoners and second homeowners (Keira Knightly and Richard Curtis are among those with houses nearby). “It’s a wonderful place with great pubs and scenic coastal walks – a real antidote to fast-paced life in the city,” says Vanessa. “Like many Londoners, my friends and I would spend our weekends here. We’d have a brilliant time - but found there was nowhere to shop.”

Teaming up with friend and former retail boss Clare Grady, Vanessa (née Collen) began mulling over the idea for a new boutique. Between them an exciting concept emerged. Their vision, to bring an edit of the best labels to Suffolk, was to be bolstered further by an unforgettable customer experience: “We wanted Collen and Clare to be the antithesis of a pretentious boutique,” she says. “Our idea was to create a little girl’s dressing up box for grown-ups. Women could come in and try on anything they liked without being judged. It was all about having fun; we didn’t want customers to feel pressured to buy.”

Work experience

After handing in her notice and being swiftly escorted off the premises

(apparently customary practise for bankers who resign), Vanessa immediately began seeking handson retail experience. “We’d found the right premises, but the building hadn’t previously been a shop and needed a total renovation,” she says. “So, I took on a part-time role at a local discounting store. My previous salary raised eyebrows, but I was thankfully welcomed onto the team.”

The day after Vanessa’s thirtieth birthday party saw her joining Clare to trawl the aisles of Pure London. Their early brand list included the likes of London labels Neisha Crosland and Omnia as well as Rachel Roberts, Pringle and Wolford. “We wanted to offer a real multi-brand experience with a mix of price points that appealed to a

variety of people. We also bought across the categories, bringing in full ‘head to toe’ options from coats and dresses to hats and tights.”

The same ethos remains at Collen and Clare today. The store stocks a colossal 120 brands including Ba&sh, Farm Rio, Rails, Traffic People, Foil and Stella Nova. Shoppers can buy a basic t-shirt for £30 or splurge on a £1,000+ coat. “We offer something for everyone; you can buy a Falke tight or Charnos,” says Vanessa. “We sell Penelope Chilvers boots as well as Shoe the Bear.” Underwear is also popular at the store: “You’d be gobsmacked by how many people come to Southwold for the weekend and forget to pack pants.”

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 43

SHOP TALK

Buying needs

Vanessa personally buys everything stocked at Collen and Clare. She’s regularly out on the road (or railway) seeking out new brands. Buying destinations include London and Paris while she sometimes ventures to Milan and Copenhagen. “Fitting in so many appointments each season is getting harder, if I’m honest,” she says. “I have considered reducing our number of suppliers but it’s difficult, especially when you carry as many categories as we do.”

A quick peruse of Collen and Clare’s brand list proves how persistent Vanessa is in her perpetual search for the next fashion must-have. Some labels have been mainstays for many years. The indie has sold Mulberry handbags, for example, at its physical store for the best part of two decades. Others join its roster when they’re practically brand new. Collen and Clare was among the first to stock Scandi favourite Stina Goya while it also helped kickstart the popularity of Rixo. More recently, Vanessa brought Barcelona brand Dr Bloom to the UK after discovering it in Paris.

While some retailers may feel frustrated to be a stepping stone to a brand’s success, Vanessa is quite philosophical: “I’ve always felt that my job as an independent retailer is to help launch brands and give them an audience. We take them on a journey of growth. I love it when brands do well. The trick is knowing when to continue that journey or step away.”

Retail ambition

After trading in an “absolutely tiny” store for a couple of years, Vanessa was in a position to purchase much larger premises on the “sunny side of the street.” That’s where the Collen and Clare flagship remains today.

The building itself has a fascinating backstory, having been a clothing retailer in one guise or another for 500 years. “There’s a clause in the deeds that state it must be used as a drapers and clothiers,” says Vanessa. “It’s such a privilege to be the custodian of this amazing building.”

A decade after first opening, Clare stepped away from the business to concentrate on her family. Filling her shoes came former M&S marketing whizz and Southwold resident Steve Sharp, who’d been watching the business flourish from the start. “Steve was a keen supporter of ours, so I had my very own Dragon’s Den moment,” says Vanessa.

Their plan was to introduce Collen and Clare to other key coastal towns. So, with Steve now on board as chairman, they rolled out two more sites. The second opened in Aldeburgh, just 20 miles from the Southwold flagship, in 2015. This was soon followed by a third site over 70 miles away in Burnham Market. “It was great and I loved both locations,” says Vanessa. “But journeying between them was hard.” Finally, with the online side of business also experiencing exponential growth, a separate warehousing facility was added with its own dedicated team to process e-commerce orders and returns.

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SHOP TALK

Scaling back

But the pandemic had a devastating and unexpected impact. With three stores located at opposite ends of the East Anglian coast, Vanessa struggled with the logistics of selling online: “Fulfilling orders was tough with the rest of the team on furlough,” she says. “A customer could potentially order for a dress located in Southwold, socks in Burnham Market and a jumper in Aldeburgh. I just didn’t have the infrastructure in place.”

The final nail in the coffin came when Steve was forced to pull the plug on his stake in the business: “Personal circumstances meant he had to step away and we would have needed another investor to keep all three shops going. I was already juggling so much, including home schooling two teenage children. I just wasn’t ready.”

Instead, Vanessa restructured the business and devised a new plan to scale its operations back down to the Southwold flagship and website. Sadly, the other two shops never fully reopened again following the first national lockdown. “The impact on my team was heartbreaking,” she says. Meanwhile, the owner also enrolled on a local government-funded Help to Grow course for SMEs, which turned out to be a “crystalising” experience: “I went in thinking I wanted to gain new customers from all over the world, but soon realised our technology was woefully out of date,” she says. “We needed to focus on the customers we already had and instead make some serious investments.”

Online transformation

The course saw Vanessa partnered with Quickfire Digital co-founder Nathan Lomax as her mentor. “He helped me transform the website. We moved everything over to Shopify and then had everything redesigned.” Investment has now reached an eyewatering six figures and yet the process still poses a number of challenges. Perhaps most detrimental has been its dramatic fall in visibility on Google. “It’s something people don’t tell you, but changing platforms can seriously damage your ranking,” the owner says. “Retailers aren’t just retailers anymorewe’re running tech businesses. Things have changed irrecoverably in the past 20 years. The days of running a little shop without a ‘tech stack’ are long gone.”

Historically, Collen and Clare’s online sales have made up around 30 per cent of its overall revenue. While that has dropped since its recent changeover, Vanessa’s plan is to increase it again by tapping into the store’s already-loyal supporters.

When it comes to bricks-and-mortar retail, the owner is also overcoming numerous challenges, not helped in the slightest by this year’s incessant rain and whipping winds. “Don’t get me started on the weather,” she says. But Vanessa has plenty of tricks up her sleeve to pique shopper interest. These include product exclusives, such as its recently launched De Siena resort slides emblazoned with the word ‘Southwold’. There are numerous in-store events planned on the calendar, too. Plus, she’s also just opened an experimental beachwear pop-up shop in almost the exact unit Collen and Clare first started in.

And Vanessa’s best secret weapon, apart from those exceptional windows? “It has to be my team. People might initially walk in for the edit, but they come back for the advice and atmosphere.”

For now, the indie owner’s biggest desire is to just keep going: “I want to make sure there’s an independent retailer in this building for another 500 years,” she says. “More people are recognising the benefits of shopping in cool destination towns. You can come to places like Southwold and park for free, grab an artisan coffee and visit unique independents. There’s a real return to the old-fashioned way of shopping. I hope that’s something more and more people will embrace.”

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 45

SHOP TALK

“Physical

retail can learn from the online experience and

use

customer data in a smart way”

BIRA CEO ANDREW GOODACRE ON HARNESSING CUSTOMER DATA TO ELEVATE THE RETAIL EXPERIENCE

Ishouldn’t admit it, but I remember my very first Amazon purchase. But the second time I used the site stands out even more as it was the very first time I experienced personalisation. Amazon remembered what I’d bought the first time around and used this information to suggest other relevant products. This level of personalisation was something I hadn’t experienced before. And it was smart and effective because I bought other items.

This customer journey has now been replicated by other retailers (some better than others). Some might say it’s smart use of technology. That is true, but it’s more accurately a smart use of data. This data was captured from my registration on the website, searches, clicks and ultimately my purchases. It was then analysed and used to personalise my use of the website and make me feel that the retailer really knew and understood me.

I often hear that this level of personalisation can only be achieved online. However, ‘knowing your customer’ is integral to physical retail and is just another way of defining personalisation. In fact, I would argue that knowing customers is one of the key features of any successful independent retailer.

But is offering great personal service enough for small shop owners these days? Well, it is certainly a good start – especially because so many of the large chains seem to have given up on the idea. However, I think physical retail can learn from the online experience and use customer data in a smart way. If you don’t already have that data, start collecting it by introducing mailing lists or loyalty schemes. The more details you know about the customer, the more you can personalise communications and special offers based on previous purchases. In general, people love someone taking an interest in them and getting to know them. The secret is knowing what to do with the data you are collecting.

I think that collecting and managing customer data is a missed opportunity for the independent retailer, partly because we associate it with the e-commerce experience. Online retailers are good at collecting

data, but they’re not always great at personal service. If physical store owners can learn from e-commerce and combine that knowledge with fantastic personal service, then you have a seriously good retail proposition.

My only word of warning is that the collection and management of customer data comes with added responsibilities. Data is a valuable commodity to cyber criminals, and you must ensure that you have the adequate protection. However, do not let that put you off looking at this important marketing strategy to grow your business.

46 | boutique. | MAY 2024

SHOP TALK

PHOTO BY KELLY SIKKEMA ON UNSPLASH

A lifeline fo r familie s since 1853

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From boa rdroom to bo utique, studio to warehouse, we’re he re for every parent who

finds themselves unable to affo rd essential i tems like clo thes, bed room f urniture or study equipmen t for thei r child .

Get nvolved Promo te. upport. ona te. Fa

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“Our customers are part of a family; we’re here on good days and bad”

MARC QUEROL IS MANAGING DIRECTOR AT DOUBLE H AGENCY

After taking over ownership of Double H Agency earlier this year, managing director Marc Querol is feeling optimistic about the season ahead. Here he reveals what buyers can expect when visiting its Islington-based showroom this summer…

Congratulations on taking over Double H Agency, how did the acquisition come about?

I’ve been working for the agency for a long time and took on the role as managing director after the pandemic. Last year the opportunity came up to take over the business so I decided to go for it. I’m really excited about what’s ahead. Retail is such an interesting sector; I really enjoy being part of this industry.

What’s your career background?

I’m originally from Barcelona where I worked in media marketing. In 2011, my wife was offered a place at King’s College London, so we decided to move to the UK. While looking for a job an opportunity came up to work with Double H Agency. My first position was in marketing and e-commerce, but I soon progressed onto brand manager and then eventually managing director.

What does your new role as owner entail?

I don’t expect my day-to-day role to change that dramatically as I was already very hands on with the daily operations. In terms of our customers, I’ve been the agency’s key point of contact for a number of years. I do still need to find my feet with the accounting and financial side of the business, however. That’s new territory for me.

Which brands are you working with?

It’s great that we’ve been able to keep most of brands that we were already working with. Buyers can come to us for French lifestyle labels Saint James and Eden Park, trendy young fashion brand Olow, German outerwear specialist S4 Jackets and Danish trousers label Sunwill. In addition, we have recently signed new denim brand Paddock’s, which offers excellent quality in-season pieces for great price points. Finally, we’re now also working with Portuguese footwear brand Ambitious offering exceptional quality mid-priced products for men and women.

How are you feeling about the SS25 season?

I’m very optimistic. It’s true that the bad weather hasn’t been helping retailers so far this spring. However, if I analyse the figures – and include in-season orders - I can see it’s still been positive. There are still lots of challenges, but the economy is improving so we’re hopeful. Buyers that bring something new and exciting to tempt their customers for SS25 will have a successful season.

What can buyers expect when they visit the showroom?

We offer a relaxed buying experience with a great selection of brands. Our customers are part of a family; we are always here for them on good days and bad. We also only work with high quality brands that offer a good service, so they’ll be well looked after at every stage. We have a permanent London showroom and the selling window for SS25 is from July to September. I’d always advise making an appointment when possible so we can offer a dedicated experience, which can be arranged via our website (doublehagency.com) or by email and Instagram.

What challenges do you face as an agency in the current climate?

I’d say that confidence isn’t as high as it’s been in the past. Buyers are cautious and we’re competing with well-known brand names. But more retailers realise that it pays to stock a mixture of high-profile brands alongside independent designers. It helps give boutiques a stronger point of difference while there’s also less chance of having to compete with heavy discounting online. We’re also finding that there’s more demand for in-season and neverout-stock lines, which is something we can help buyers with as an agency.

What long-term ambitions do you have for Double H Agency?

My main goal is to keep growing the brands we have and also achieve business growth for the agency. I want to keep a good life and work balance too; family is very important.

Double H Agency is open for SS25 buying appointments from July to September; doublehagency.com

48 | boutique. | MAY 2024 SHOP TALK

For all agents and suppliers We are now booking in the New Season issues Please email julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk for more information on our print, digital and editorial opportunities in our forthcoming issues. More brands plan their new season marketing campaign with Boutique magazine than any other UK trade title BUSINESS SENSE FOR FASHION RETAILERS

Accessories

Euroleathers

Euroleathers are a supplier of premium shoe and leather care products and accessories.

HQ: Ibex House, Ferrofields, Brixworth, Northampton NN6 9UA

T: 01604 881 097

E: sales@euroleathers.com

W: www.euroleathers.com

From My Mothers Garden

Contact name Penny Callaghan

T: 07825 148040 / 01308 426517

E: info@frommymothersgarden.co.uk

W: www.frommymothersgarden.co.uk

Scream Pretty

Company name - Lily Charmed Ltd

Brand names - Scream Pretty

Contact name - Lucy Lee

T: 01753 424160

E: trade@screampretty.com

W: tradescreampretty.com / screampretty.com

Tempest Designs

Fashion Jewellery, Handbags & Accessories

Contact: Sarah Tempest

T: 01656 842102

E: enquiries@tempestdesigns.co.uk

W: www.tempestdesigns.co.uk

Business

Futura Retail Solutions Ltd

The Old Forge, The Street, Tidmarsh, Reading, Berkshire, RG8 8ER

T: 01189 841925

E: sales@futurauk.com

W: www.futura4retail.co.uk

Top To Toe

Lyonsdown House

23-29 Hendon Lane, London, N3 1RT

Software Systems

T: 020 3376 5888

E: info@toptotoe.com

UKP WORLDWIDE

UKP Worldwide (UKPW) are a customs agent specialising in customs clearance of low and high value eCommerce parcels including fully managed returns logistics and duty reclaim.

T: +44 (0) 1844 398 880

W: ukpworldwide.com

Events and Exhibitions

Boutique Star Awards

Organiser : Boutique Professional

Media Ltd

T: Tel 01795 515288

E: Julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk

Harrogate Fashion Week

Harrogate Convention Centre

W: harrogatefashionweek.com

T: +44 (0)1423 623 701 / 07551329675

E: sarah@harrogatefashionweek.com

Show Dates : 4-6 August 2024

Home and Gift

Harrogate Convention Centre

Organiser: Clarion Events

W: homeandgift.co.uk

Show Dates : 21-24 July 2024

Indx womenswear

Cranmore Park Exhibition Centre

Organiser: indx shows

W: www.indxshows.co.uk

Show Dates : 21-23 July 2024

Messe Frankfurt France

Texworld Evolution Paris

Paris Porte de Versailles, Hall 7

E: visitorservice@france. messefrankfurt.com

Show Dates: 1-3 July 2024

Moda/ Autumn and Spring Fair

Organiser: Hyve Group

Website: www.moda-uk.co.uk

Show Dates : 1-4 September 2024

Pure x JATC London

Organiser: Hyve Group

Website: www.purelondon.com

T: +44 (0)203 855 9550

E: visitor@purelondon.com

Show Dates: 14-16 July 2024

Scoop

Organiser: Hyve Ltd

Website: scoop-international.com

Show Dates: 14 – 16th July 2024

-Olympia West

Top Drawer

Olympia – London

Organiser: Clarion Events

W: topdrawer.co.uk

Show Dates: 8 - 10 September 2024

Footwear

Caprice Shoes

T: 07734 247 669

E: Capriceshoes@gmail.com

W: www.capriceshoes.co.uk

Facebook: /capriceshoes

Lofina

Agent: Joanna Edwards Agency

T: 07989014141/ 07512550346

W: www.shoebox.dk

50 | boutique. | MAY 2024

BUYER’S GUIDE

Womenswear

Amanda Knights Fashion Agencies

Brands:- Allison, Bariloche & Tinta, Danwear, Doris Streich, Eve in Paradise, Ora, Pont Neuf

338 East Lancashire Road, Swinton, Manchester M27 0LJ 0161 236 4455 07801 979 682 sales@knightsfashion.co.uk www.knightsfashionagency.co.uk

Anonymous

To wear it is to love it

T: 0161 819 5544

E: showroom@heenafashions.co.uk

W: myfashionhouse.co.uk

Apt Collections:

Contact: Nigel Hughes

T: 020 7580 3202

E: nigel@atpcollections.ltd.uk

W: www.aptcollections.co.uk

By Basics

Contact UK Agent: Jeremy@cates.co.uk

W: Bybasics.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

Dolcezza Europe

Brands: Dolcezza and Ever Sassy

European Office: T: +353-21-2038019

E: sales@dolcezzaeurope.ie

Double H Agency

Brands: Eden Park , St James .

Contact: Marc Querol

Linkedin - Facebook - TwitterInstagram -

W: www.doublehagency.com

T: 07539228041

Extravagance

Brands: Sarah Pacini, Thanny, Caraclan

Contact: Nazma Chaudhry

T: 07881 622 888

E: nazmachaudhry@gmail.com

W: www.sarahpacini.com

W: www.ny77design.com

Frank Lyman

UK Customer Service

T: 07368 175176

W: www.franklyman.com

E: ukinfo@franklyman.com

From My Mothers Garden

Contact name Penny Callaghan

T: 07825 148040 / 01308 426517

E: info@frommymothersgarden.co.uk

W: www.frommymothersgarden.co.uk

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: Mama b, THING, Mes Soeurs et Moi, Papucei and Blueberry

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: B Three, Erfo, Frank Walder, Kris Fashion, Manisa, Marina V, Relaxed by Toni, Tinta and Bariloche, 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, Rialto48, Maud & Sacha Merinos, Cristina Beautiful Life

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: Coco-Y-Club. Condici, Cream, Frank Lyman, Orientique, Tirelli, Ispirato

T: 07855 481651

E: info@torfashion.co.uk

W: www.torfashion.co.uk

Instagram: torfashionltd

MAY 2024 | boutique. | 51 BUYER’S GUIDE

Tel: 020 8417 0660 | Email: hello@propress.co.uk

@propress.co.uk

Propress MINI The Ultimate Handheld Steamer Iron from the original steamer company

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Boutique Magazine May 2024

Rays of hope

Fashion Fix

Young Ideas closes Derby store while unveiling plans to expand Ashbourne flagship

Shoplifting offences rise to highest level in 20 years

Pretty Parade Boutique hosts sellout catwalk show

CAROLINE & MOLLIE BUTTERWORTH

CO-FOUNDERS

Moo Like a Monkey launches circular clothing scheme

The Fashion Huddle announces dates for summer showcase

Boutique barometer

Harrogate Fashion Week organisers unveil plans for SS25 edition

Belt up

Something sweet

Winter sun

THIS MONTH’S STANDOUT WOMENSWEAR AND ACCESSORIES

Truly timeless

Note perfect

Share the love

Power dressing

Boutique loves…

THE FASHION BUYS WE’RE FALLING FOR THIS SPRING

In the red

Multi-tasker

Into the fold

Eco chic SUSTAINABLE

PRODUCTS AND BRANDS

Bold & beautiful

Full transparency

Time to bloom

Layering piece

Do the twist

#Grid goals

TOP POSTS WE’VE LIKED ON THE ‘GRAM THIS MONTH

@shopatanna

Social

@foxandfeatheruk

Stock Up

Fun at the fair

10 TOP FASHION TRADE SHOWS TO VISIT THIS SUMMER

1. TEXWORLD PARIS

4. SOURCE FASHION

5. INDX WOMAN

6. HOME & GIFT

7. HARROGATE FASHION WEEK

8. FOOTWEAR TODAY LIVE

10. LONDON SHOE SHOW

9. MODA

About time

CHRISTOPHE DUCHAMP’S LUXE SWISS-MADE WATCHES ARE TRULY TIMELESS

Fashion Extras

GEMMA WARD PICKS

OUT SPRING’S MOST TEMPTING ACCESSORIES

Raise your glasses

Out of this world

Smart thinking

Strike gold

Happy days

Slim shady

Triple threat

Pretty in print

Good for the sole

Sweet treat

Check things out

Something blue

Off the wall

Spring florals

Wear with pride

Daily shop

On the cards

Bring on the Brits

CELEBRATE GREAT BRITISH DESIGN WITH THESE UK-BORN FASHION BRANDS

POMODORO

WKNDGIRL

MATILDA LONDON

MARBLE

COTI VISION

LILY & ME

Down to Business

Cut your losses