Events

Image: Doug Chalk

MARKET KNOWLEDGE

Stephanie Edwards, Style Vintage

Welcome to The Sherborne Market! What brings you here?

I worked at The Julian in the '80s with interior designer Jane Burden and before that as a seamstress for Liz Elgee on Swan Yard, so Sherborne has always felt like home. I set my stall out quite theatrically, like a pop-up boutique and have a healthy social media presence so I’m lucky to be invited to some great markets.

Where have you travelled from?

Home is in Haselbury Plucknett, ideal for me as it’s halfway between my twice-weekly market in Bridport and Castle Cary Vintage Market which I run.

Tell us about what you’re selling?

Women’s vintage clothing from the '60s, '70s and '80s, with a peppering of great pre-loved pieces. Over the past 7 years the business has expanded and with higher awareness of sustainability I started making bags and hats from my vintage fabrics and old leather scraps. I also upcycle clothes from stock that hasn’t sold. What began as a ‘waste not, want not’ project has grown into commissions and waiting lists for funked-up garments.

Where and when did it all begin?

A love of the weird and wonderful! I’d been a fashion designer for many years, selling to Harrods and Liberty’s. I took a break and worked in fashion retail, but my heart was always in vintage. I took the leap and filled a room above my husband’s estate agents in Yeovil, called it Serendipity Vintage Boutique and loved it. The day I did my first market was a turning point for me and my business.

What do you enjoy most about selling at markets?

Many things, but above all, the craic, the camaraderie and the support amongst traders. Working outside in all weathers, even in -3° you feel alive and healthy, also I’m lazy by nature so it keeps me fit.

If you get the chance, which fellow stallholders here at Sherborne would you like to visit?

I can’t resist a Dorset Sea Salt caramel brownie from the award-winning Bayside Bakery on Cheap Street. I love the explosion of colour on Trifle Bazaar, a Moroccan-inspired stall by the Conduit. One day I’ll choose a mad steampunk lamp from Matney’s Shed also by the Conduit. I want one of the lush Jacob's fleece sheepskins from Petit Jah of Ethical Trading near me.

Where can people find you on market day?

Down in Pageant Gardens with great live music and wonderful street food. There’s a real festival atmosphere there.

stylevintage.co.uk @stylevintageuk