Boutique may 2013

May 2013

BUSINESS SENSE FOR FASHION RETAILERS

ISSUE 31

MERCURY RISING

Amazing accessories Young fashion brands Magical AW13 metallics Increasing customer loyalty

C O AT S GILETS FURS SCARVES ACCESSORIES

Exquisite ranges, original designs and the very finest of fabrics

Showroom Visits by appointment only.

01782 658947 sales@jayleycollection.com

jayleycollection.com

JayLey Collection 2013 Shows: Home & Gift Pure London Moda Autumn Fair Top Drawer

Harrogate (C69) Olympia (K99) NEC (M29 / M31) NEC (4L66 / 4L70) Olympia (K31)

14-17 July 4-6 August 11-13 August 31 Aug - 4 Sept 15-17 September

EDITOR’S LETTER Editor Gemma Ward gemma.ward@boutique-magazine.co.uk Contributors Rachel Parkin, Eric Musgrave, Sarah Cross Publication Manager Julie Neill – julieneill@cimltd.co.uk Tel 01795 509112 Fax 01795 591065 Account Executive Susan Hendry – susan@cimltd.co.uk Catherine Ridings – catherine@cimltd.co.uk Tel 01795 509106 Studio Manager Paula Smith – paula@cimltd.co.uk Design and Production Grant Waters – grant@cimltd.co.uk James Taylor – james@cimltd.co.uk Tel 01795 509108 Credit Facilities Manager Vickie Crawford – vickie@cimltd.co.uk Tel 01795 509103 Chief Executive John Denning – jdenning@cimltd.co.uk © 2013 CIM Online Limited, The Goods Shed, Jubilee Way, Whitstable Road, Faversham, Kent ME13 8GD. 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 CIM Online Limited.

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 Ingenue London; Tel: 0207 978 2038 Ingenuelondon.com

Survival of the fittest

I

ndies were left feeling shellshocked last month after Miinto announced it was pulling out of the UK and Ireland. The Denmark-originating etailer, which offers an online portal for boutiques to collectively sell their wares, launched with much fanfare in this country last year. However after less than 12 months’ trading time (during which it managed to attract almost 200 indies), its bosses have pulled the plug – citing a failure to secure necessary funding as the reason for its demise.

Unfortunately this isn’t the only issue affecting fashion indies today.

However, as we bask in the new season (and, fingers crossed, some lasting sunshine) it’s not all bad news. And for those that dare to be different, SS13 could turn out to be their most progressive season yet.

For those of you that haven’t fully considered the opportunities created by Independents’ Day and Independent Retailer Month, now is the time to start. Both campaigns are set to take place for the third year in July – and even better still, they’ve joined forces to create more clout among consumers. Turn to Fashion fix, starting on page seven, to find out how getting involved could help drive extra traffic (and excitement) to your store this summer.

Likewise we’ve also been considering the viability of independent collaborations this month for the

entire year. One retailer who’s taken the bull by the horns is Rachel Parkin, owner of Reber boutique in Peterborough. She explains why she’s enlisting as many fellow store owners as possible for a new Local Indie Retailers venture on page 36.

Last but not least, we’ve also been thinking about the power of customer loyalty in this issue and how indies can offer added value incentives to set themselves apart from the multiples.

Customer loyalty expert Sarah Cross reveals some sound advice on how to keep your customers coming back for more, starting on page 31.

Because despite the high street doom and gloom, it is possible to win over an army of fans and cultivate a successful business. And those that pool their efforts into standing out from the crowd are the ones that will survive.

Gemma Ward, Editor gemma.ward@boutique-magazine.co.uk Follow me on Twitter @gemmagemmaward

May 2013 | boutique. | 3

CONTENTS

07

32

10

boutique.

May 2013

NEWS

SHOPS

07 FASHION FIX

26 GREEN STREET

41 CAPITAL ONE

What’s hot and what’s not on the independent fashion retail radar

The ethical, eco-friendly and Fair Trade brands flying the flag for the entire planet

A spotlight on London’s cosmopolitan retail scene

The super lust-after finds that are setting our pulses racing this month

BUSINESS

Gemma Ward gets the inside story on two successful Central London indies

12 TREASURE TROVE Trends, labels and brands to watch

The story behind Westerham’s FAB member Judy French

BUYING

32 INSPIRING LOYALTY

15 HEAVY METAL

Customer loyalty expert Sarah Cross reveals how to nurture your very own brand fans

10 BOUTIQUE LOVES…

Rise and shine with AW13’s best metallic fashion and accessories

20 FASHION EXTRAS

29 INDUSTRY VOICE

35 INDEPENDENT AND PROUD

Must-have bags, shoes, jewels and accessories

How Reba boutique owner Rachel Parkin is boosting business in her hometown

22 TEEN SPIRIT

36 DIGITAL LOVE

The young fashion labels we love

Retail software systems for maximum management success

24 ACCESSORISE YOUR LIFE

44 SHOP FRONT

15 HEAVY METAL

Unique accessory labels with a point of difference May 2013 | boutique. | 5

Enquiries: 01626 879998 | www.carolccollections.com | info@carolccollections.com

FASHION FIX

Essential news

Indie owner Donna Ida Thornton unveils the results of Chelsea boutique’s £120,000 makeover

C

helsea’s finest turned out for the relaunch of Donna Ida’s flagship Draycott Avenue boutique last month following a £120,000 makeover. Over 300 guests – including Made in Chelsea’s Rosie Fortescue, Vogue’s Lauren Milligan and fashion designer Simeon Farrar – joined the independent fashion store owner for cocktails and bacon sandwiches to celebrate the newly revamped space.

Ida enlisted interior specialist D-Raw, which also managed previous shop fits for her Belgravia and Guildford stores, to transform the boutique’s 613 sq ft interior. Its new look features a refreshed directional shop frontage and airy inside that has seen a clever re-configuration to maximise space. Contemporary details – including brass fittings, buffed concrete, slick grey vinyl, white New York subway-style tiling and rough industrial plywood embellished with

a stark white resin bleed – combine to create an ultra modern urban finish.

Meanwhile key areas such as a new sweeping denim gallery, examinationstyle jeans tables and enlarged dressing room area at the back of the store provide further reasons for customers to browse for longer.

“It’s been six-and-a-half fantastic years since I opened the doors to our flagship boutique so it was time to modernise the store,” says Ida. “We needed to maximise the space to showcase the all of the different brands. It was also very important that the shop fit plans and ideas worked in practice. We scrutinised and tested every aspect to make sure it would be the perfect shopping experience for our customers.”

The first 50 attendees to make a purchase at the launch received a goody bag teeming with freebies including an exclusive Simeon Farrar t-shirt and beauty products by Rodial,

Toma and Bliss. There was also a chance to win a pair for jeans every 30 minutes in a prize draw to highlight the benefits of Donna Ida’s Denim Clinic, which promises to fit customers with the “perfect pair of jeans” in less than half an hour. Meanwhile a temporary Donna Ida pop-up shop was also open across the road offering samples and sale items alongside mini makeovers by AOFM and manicures

by Essie.

Since opening its doors in 2007 Donna Ida’s self-titled Chelsea boutique has become a destination store for fashion conscious women looking for perfect fitting jeans. Today the store carries 20 luxury denim brands including Ida’s debut collection IDA alongside J Brand, MiH Jeans, Paige, Goldsign, Citizens of Humanity and Current/Elliot. Additionally it also stocks complementary tops and accessories by Tucker, Elizabeth and James, Wildfox and Lily and Lionel.

May 2013 | boutique. | 7

FASHION FIX

Miinto closes down UK and Irish division causing “disappointment” for indies Online shopping portal Miinto has closed down its UK and Ireland operations following a shortfall in funding.

The Scandinavian-born company, which launched last May, offered fashion indies a brand new channel to sell their goods online. Almost 200 boutiques across the UK and Ireland signed up to its concept including the likes of The Dressing Room, Boudoir Femme and Psyche.

Miinto group’s CEO Morten Larsen cited a lack of financial backing on its demise. The company sent out a letter to all its retailer partners explaining: “Over the past four months Miinto has worked intensively on raising capital with both European and American companies, unfortunately without successfully agreeing terms with the venture capitalists.” It stopped taking orders at the end of March and gave consumers 14 days to return goods. The etailer also promised to complete any financial commitments to all of its boutiques.

“The closure has been a real disappointment because it gave smaller independent businesses the opportunity to reach the e-commerce market without an enormous outlay,” comments Boudoir Femme owner Pippa Sandison. “We do have our own site but we’re now exploring some more third party etailers with a view to eventually re-vamp our own.”

8 | boutique. | May 2013

Independents’ Day and Independent Retailer Month collaborate for 2013 campaigns The organisers of Independents’ Day and Independent Retailer Month have joined forces this year to create one nationwide event. Both campaigns, which are headed by Support for Independent Retail and the National Skills Academy for Retail respectively, launched three years ago and aim to help indies connect with their local communities.

This year’s Independents’ Day campaign (4 July) will help kick-start Independent Retailer Month, which will run until August. The campaigns have support from a variety of trade associations including Bira and Action for Market Towns.

Organisers are urging retailers to collaborate with other stores in their local areas to host celebratory events and promotionals throughout July.

Retailers have access to a range of

downloadable material and resources to maximise activity via Retailindieday. com and Independentretailermonth. co.uk/resources.

Clare Rayner, founder of Support for Independent Retail, says: “It’s simple and effective activities that can really help start the process of changing consumer habits and remind people that they stand to lose all the fantastic shops in their area if they never visit or spend with them.”

Jane Rexworthy, head of the National Skills Academy for Retail, adds: “We aim to raise the importance of indies and encourage people to shop locally.

We also want to raise awareness of the support and training that is available at a substantially reduced price to assist indies in acquiring and improving essential skills which can really make a difference to their bottom line.”

Gecko Jewellery unveils new transactional website for retailers Award winning trade-only jewellery supplier Gecko has launched a new website for retailers. Together with improved content including the latest news and updates, visitors can view its vast selection of designled jewellery lines and place orders online.

Gecko is one of the UK’s

largest jewellery wholesalers with brands including Fiorelli, D for Diamond, Fred Bennett and Elements Gold. Renowned for its customer service, the company boasts a nationwide team of dedicated representatives and has been supplying boutiques for over 20 years. Visit Geckojewellery.com to browse and order its latest collections.

FASHION FIX

Scottish design students host fashion pop-up shop in London’s Camden Town Fashion students from Heriot-Watt’s School of Textiles and Design in Edinburgh hosted a pop-up shop in Camden recently to showcase their latest collections.

Students from four different fashion-related courses worked in teams to create a series of cutting edge designs to present to buyers and shoppers at the event.

The pop-up shop was part of the Spirit of Camden initiative, which is aiming to re-invigorate the North London area as a creative fashion hub for independents.

Simon Pitkeathley, CEO of Camden Town Unlimited, instigated the project working closely with the university’s design lecturers Theresa Coburn and Judith Scott. The project

gave students real work experience enabling them to merchandise and sell their work in a retail environment.

“Camden is regarded as one of the most creative neighbourhoods in London for indie fashion, music and media,” says Coburn. “This was an invaluable opportunity for our students to showcase their work and pursue connections with leading fashion brands.”

Eleven Paris celebrates first UK store launch on London’s Carnaby Street Premium French label Eleven Paris officially opened the doors to its first UK boutique on London’s Carnaby Street last month with a celebratory party.

A range of famous faces including models Daisy Lowe, Amber Le Bon and Irina Shayk attended the launch, which also marked the brand’s 10-year anniversary.

Guests were entertained by music from French DJ Diis Paradiis, Kim Jakobsen and Boy George while sipping on gin cocktails and eating food courtesy of Big Apple Hot Dogs. The party continued at London’s version of Parisian club Le Baron until the early hours.

Eleven Paris currently operates 16 outlets in France and plans to develop the brand internationally.

The new London store stocks both its menswear and womenswear collections, which are inspired by indie music, art and underground culture from different cultures and cities.

Traffic People supports local design talent during Bath in Fashion event

British womenswear label Traffic People invited a selection of local fashion and accessory designers to showcase their work inside its Milsom Place boutique during last month’s Bath in Fashion.

The South West Designer boutique ran as a three-week pop-up shop last month in conjunction with the city’s annual fashion event. Around 15 local designers presented their latest collections to visitors including Anne Selby, Jan Knibbs, Carole Wadham and Eloise Atwell.

Traffic People dedicated half of

the space inside the store to the new designers and kick-started their selling stint with a celebratory launch party and catwalk show for local shoppers and store owners.

Jacquai Holcombe, manager of the Bath boutique, comments: “We were really excited to support these local designers and share our space with them. There are some fantastic designers based right here on our doorstep and it was such a positive step that we could offer them the opportunity to be seen and gain some sales.”

May 2013 | boutique. | 9

FASHION FIX

This launch…

Denim fashion label Only has launched new short order sub-brand JdY for SS13. Offering a fresh take on wardrobe essentials for the priceconscious fashion fan, the debut collection features affordable staples including tees, jeans, shirts and pullovers. From £5; Tel: 0203 205 0326

These jeans…

Statement prints and florals are huge for SS13. Almost Famous combines both trends in these bright flower power jeans, which are available on short order now. £31; Tel: 0207 637 2622 Aflondon.com

This trend…

It’s all about statement earrings this season and this Mosaic pair by Fiorelli Costume Jewellery offers an instant SS13 update. Tel: 01376 532 000 Geckojewellery.com

Boutique loves…

These boots…

The show-stopping finds setting us on fire this month

Created by a British design duo, Seven Boot Lane offers fine leather footwear crafted by a dedicated team of boot smiths in Spain. Mixing Western, utilitarian, minimalist and military styling, each of its designs are executed to the highest standards to withstand the test of time. Annie boot, £67.31; Tel: 01749 673 222

10 | boutique. | May 2013

This label…

Designed and manufactured in the Scottish Borders, Hawick Knitwear’s luxurious cardigans and jumpers are created using 100 per cent natural fabrics. Its plain lambswool crew neck pullover, available in a variety of bright and muted colours all year round, is the ultimate trans-seasonal knitwear essential for every stylish wardrobe. £25; Tel: 01450 363 100 Hawickknitwear.com

VOYAGE PARIS New styles arriving daily from Paris and Italy. View our latest collections online or at our London showroom.

44 Mortimer Street • London • W1W 7RJ 020 7636 1892 • lookbook@voyageparis.co.uk

voyageparis.co.uk

FASHION FIX FAIR pLAY

A STATE OF DISTRESS

Fair Trade label Laidback London enlists local artisans in East Africa to produce its handmade leather sandals, providing a sustainable lifestyle for workers and their families. £POA; Tel: 0207 993 4703 E: info@laidbacklondon.com

Ceannis’s Vintage Satchel in denim blue features distressed leather that will perfectly complement AW13’s glamorous utilitarian trend. Better still, it nails both practically and style at the same time.

Showing at Pulse (stand R31), £99; Tel: 0770 287 7081 Ceannis.com

EMERALD CITY Part of jewellery specialist Alexander Thurlow’s AT London collection, this eye-catching necklace and earring set is perfect for SS13. £10.30; Tel: 020 8766 6466 Alexanderthurlow.com

THE SWEETEST THING Ideal for fashion fans with a feminine and flirty style, Sweet Liberty’s signature dresses feature flattering fits, sweet necklines and colour-popping prints. From £22; Tel: 0207 485 8633

Treasure trove Covetable trends, labels and buys for your store

LET IT RAIN Arriving on our shores from Holland, Happy Rainy Days is a collection of waterproof, windproof and breathable outerwear. Its flattering and feminine raincoats include functional extras such as detachable hoods, wind cuffs and fully tapered seams to offer further protection from the elements.

From €45; Tel: 07771 537 768 E: bridie@distriboutique.co.uk 12 | boutique. | May 2013

Summer 2013 Collection available for immediate delivery / Autumn 2013 available for pre-order -----------------------------------------------------www.lily-and-me.com • Tel: 01566 772121 • email: sales@lily-and-me.com

STOCK UP

What to buy now

Summer staple

A

n ultra-flattering dress should be on every woman’s wardrobe wish list for SS13. This power-print style by Ingenue London ticks all the right boxes: its longer sleeves and hemline are ideal for disguising imperfections while its ruched waistline makes for a flawless silhouette. Merchandise it with sky-high heels and a colour block clutch for effortless day-tonight glamour. Bailey dress in eye print £33/ RRP £92; Tel: 0207 978 2038 Ingenuelondon.com May 2013 | boutique. | 15

STOCK UP

The magic of metallic Get ready for a shiny AW13 season with lustrous leather, burnished brocade and dazzling detailing GILES

JAQSKIRT Soaked in Luxury, £15; Tel: 0208 871 2155

EVENING TROUSERS Almost Famous, £39; Tel: 0207 637 2622

SATCHEL Zatchels, from £44.07; Tel: 020 7636 7058 BARNSBURY SHOE Cocorose London, £POA; Tel: 0208 829 8919

EMILIA TOP Soaked in Luxury, £15; Tel: 0208 871 2155

REVERSIBLE RAINCOAT UBU, £52; Tel: 01626 879 998 METALLIC BUMPER JACKET Noisy May, £20; Tel: 0203 205 0321 16 | boutique. | May 2013

CAIRO COLLAR Rew, £POA; Tel: 01827 50582

FEATHER PRINT DRESS Almost Famous, £74; Tel: 0207 637 2622

CREATION

Notre Dame

To all boutiques in the UK, we have been a wholesale for over 30 years of french and italian fashion stock, including: Jus d’Orange Fifilles Maille Demoiselle Occo Carla d’Angeli Mod Ecran

Absolu Ficelle Christina Romeo & Juliet QHT Siste’s

And many more...

New styles arriving daily!

Next day delivery £8 For any enquires call 0207 631 3280 or fax 0207 637 5098 or email us on info@creationnotredame.co.uk www.creationnotredame.co.uk

PARIS

STOCK UP CALLAY SHOE Rocket Dog, £14.58; Tel: 0208 207 7200

JACKET Olsen, £53.22; Tel: 0207 637 2599

CYRUS SKIRT KASH, £13.50; Tel: 0207 833 3615

MERCEDES LEATHER LEGGINGS IDA, £290; Tel: 0207 486 4800

NUEVO DISCO CLUTCH Makki, £46; Tel: 07855 277 159 PAM HOGG

LIV BROCADE JUMPER Only, £12; Tel: 0203 205 0326

RINA TOP Soaked in Luxury, £19.67; Tel: 0208 871 2155

18 | boutique. | May 2013

DANA JEANS Olsen, £42.50; Tel: 0207 637 2599 LEATHER JACKET Urbancode, £119; Tel: 0207 253 9896

OWN THE NIGHT

NJ158

STRIKING, SHIMMERING LUXURY ADORNS ONE OF A KIND DESIGNS. MAKE AN IMPRESSION AS BOLD AS YOU ARE.

NJ160

ROSE GOLD:V/ ROSE+L/PEACH

SILVER:JQ

L:18” STAINLESS STEEL, NICKLE FREE AND LEAD FREE

L:18” SILVER: RHODIUM PLATING, NICKLE FREE AND LEAD FREE

PRINCIPESSA

RICH VELVETY HUES SPARKLE STRIKINGLY MIXED WITH PEARL SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS. MAKE AN ELEGANT STATEMENT FIT FOR ROYALTY.

PRINCIPESSA PJ291 PRINCIPESSA GL1104 PRINCIPESSA WJ673 PRINCIPESSA EJ1929 PRINCIPESSA RING243 PRINCIPESSA JCR287 PRINCIPESSA AJ753 PRINCIPESSA IPHONE 5 CASE BJ144 PRINCIPESSA

*ALSO AVAILABLE IN GOLD

NJ159

NJ149A

ROSE GOLD:L/ PEACH

SILVER: S/SHADE

L:18” 925:REAL SILVER WITH ROSE GOLD PLATING

L:18” STAINLESS STEEL, NICKLE FREE AND LEAD FREE

*ALSO AVAILABLE IN SILVER

NJ150

NJ155

SILVER:JET+BD+ CLR+S/SHADE

GOLD:G/SHADOW L:18” STAINLESS STEEL, NICKLE FREE AND LEAD FREE

L:30” STAINLESS STEEL, NICKLE FREE AND LEAD FREE

ON MODEL:

SUNGLASSES: GL1108B BLACK PURSE: PJ297A WATCH: WJ679 SILVER NECKLACE: FIREFLY COLLECTION RING: RING260 SILVER EARRING: EJ1928 SILVER

*ALSO AVAILABLE IN ROSE GOLD

PAGE 11

JIMMY CRYSTAL NEW Designer Swarovski YORK

ENTICE YOUR Clientele

UK AGENT: ALANNA • TEL: 077 9601 6835 WWW.JIMMYCRYSTAL.COM • info@jimmycrystal.co.uk *Agent Required

Europe´s largest retailer and wholesale supplier for

Visual Merchandising

Phone: Freephone: Freefax: eMail:

0207 754 5499 008001 9637637 008001 9737737 sales@decowoerner.de

www.decowoerner.com

Poshtotti Clothing’s new summer collection has landed.. for wholesale enquiries for these maxi dresses, kaftan tops, and pretty cut out dresses as well as a stunning collection of Luxurious Sarongs..

Contact Amanda Burwell 01548 858881 Mobile: 07887 6333330

www.poshtotti.co.uk May 2013 | boutique. | 19

(CLOCKWISE FROM

ACCESSORIES

Fashion extras The latest bags, shoes and accessories to boost your brand mix

HAPPY FEET Swedish label Happy Socks creates cheerful designs in a range of pop bright colours and patterns to help spread joy all year round. £POA; Tel: 0207 494 9635 Happysocks.com

PSYCHEDELIC ART Inspired by Kew Gardens’ exotic flowers, this digital print silk twill scarf from Fabryan’s Psychedelic Collection will provide an instant colour injection for AW13. £100; Tel: 07783 770 874

CHECK MATE Revamped in this super cool monochrome design, Missco Girl’s animal-friendly Mod Mini Satchel is hands-free and just the right size for festivals and partying. £16; E: mduffy@misscogirl.com

INSTANT UPDATE Customers will be able to give tired shoes a new lease of life with ShoeRedo’s embellishment clips.

Available in a range of colours and styles, they’re sure to inspire creativity.

From £4.03 each; Tel: 01858 467 467

UNDER WRAPS Tommy Tou’s Australian sheepskin hats – available in tan and black – will help make staying stylish and warm in the bitter cold a genuine reality. £30; E: sales@lindy-lou.co.uk Tommy-tou.co.uk

ECO CHIC

PURSE FRIENDLY

SPECIAL ATTENTION

We Wood’s watches not only look good - they’re eco-friendly, made from 100 per cent natural materials and for every one sold, the company plants a new tree. From £39.95; Tel: 01202 901 626 We-wood.co.uk

Crafted in 100 per cent leather by independent designer Nicola Dann, these Mini Loop Purses are perfect for carrying all the everyday essentials. £15; Tel: 0774 586 3660 Nicoladann-shop.co.uk

Handmade in limited numbers, Konplott’s jewellery pieces are designed to turn heads. This cup cake-inspired necklace is a guaranteed attention grabber. From £62; Tel: 01304 224 288 E: seward@sales.konplott.com

20 | boutique. | May 2013

ACCESSORIES

IN PRINT

ANCHORS AWAY

ANIMAL KINGDOM

Available in black or brown leather with a choice of three designs, this animal print tote by Blousey Brown will put a quirky spin on any outfit and occasion. £35.95; Tel: 01458 442 371 Blouseybrown.com

Belle and Flo has come over all nautical for SS13 with a range seasideinspired jewellery pieces like this leather anchor bracelet, also available in red or white. Tel: 01732 864 527 Belleandflo.co.uk

These quirky giraffe, zebra and elephant pendants by Talbot Fashions make the perfect gift ideas for style conscious animal lovers. 6pk assorted necklaces £7.80; Tel: 01273 776 415 Talbotfashions.com

MADE WITH LOVE

SHADY LADY

BOLTED

Designed by a British mother and daughter team, new accessories label Pranella creates handmade jewellery and scarves made with materials handpicked on their travels. From £5; Tel: 0191213 552

This festival-perfect hat by German label Olsen will keep customers looking and feeling effortlessly cool whenever the weather picks up this summer. £21.07; Tel: 0207 290 0890 Olsen.co.uk

Second Female gives a lesson in Scandinavian style with this pretty pink ribbon necklace that’s been given a hard edge with a double row of silver bolts. £14; Tel: 0207 384 6118 Secondfemale.dk

FLASH DANCE

ON CLOUD NINE

WE WANT PROOF

Due to popular demand Cocorose London has brought the launch of some of its AW13 styles forward to May. Order its Farringdon and Hoxton pumps in four colours now. £POA; Tel: 0208 829 8919 Cocoroselondon.com

A quirky twist on a classic piece of jewellery, the Cloud Hoops earrings

by Babette Wasserman are available in rose gold, gold or silver in a plain design or with cubic zirconias. £90; Tel: 0208 964 9777

If you’re looking for quirky accessories with a conscience, Proof ’s eyewear is made from natural materials and the brand helps restore someone’s sight with each sale. From £42.50; Tel: 01202 901 626 Iwantproof.co.uk May 2013 | boutique. | 21

CATEGORY FOCUS

Youth club

Fun and directional labels for young fashion fans

DOLLYDAGGER

BUNTY AND CO.

COSTER COPENHAGEN

A British label for women that want to wear retro clothing with a contemporary twist, Dollydagger has been specialising in form-flattering vintage-inspired dresses for young fashion fans and upwards since its launch in 2005. Tel: 01273 748 019 E: sales@dollydaggerwholesale.com

Now in its seventh season, ethical label Bunty and Co. epitomises fun young fashion with its striking prints and quirky slogans. Its casual tees, vests and sweaters have become celebrity favourites appearing on TOWIE, CBB and Strictly. Tel: 07881 941 512 Buntyandco.com

New Danish label Coster Copenhagen offers a top-to-toe clothing and accessories range for young fashion fans. Its signature is a raw and feminine aesthetic with edgy detailing while key styles include its transseasonal hand-knitted sweaters.

Tel: 0203 432 6385

JEFFREY CAMPBELL

POPPY LUX

JUNAROSE

Jeffery Campbell’s striking shoe designs have captured the hearts of fashion fans around the world and have been worn by the likes of Rihanna and Jessie J. Renowned for its adventurous details, the brand sets trends rather than following the crowd. Tel: 0207 739 0398 E: Jefferycambelluk.com

New from the Brighton-based design team at Sugarhill Boutique, younger sister label Poppy Lux offers styleconscious girls a hit of weekend glamour seven days a week. Look out for fresh prints, hot colours and showstopping shapes throughout the SS13 collection. Tel: 01273 911 814 E: wholesale@poppylux.com

Junorose is a fast fashion brand dedicated to young plus-size style hunters. Offering trend-led and perfect fitting garments, each item in the collection is carefully tailored with flattering cuts and details to ensure each style enhances the female silhouette. Tel: 07841 561 085 E: laerke.williams@bestseller.com

22 | boutique. | May 2013

ADVERTORIAL

Casual chic C

American label Peace Love World has hit the UK offering celebrity-endorsed lounge wear and casual fashion

reated with a vision to “spread peace, love and happiness wherever possible,” US line Peace Love World specialises in high-end loungewear and casual daytime dressing.

Since its launch in 2007, creator Alina Villasante – who masterminded the brand’s philosophy based on her own lifestyle – has attracted a huge celebrity following from Britney Spears to J-Lo. As a result, the label has become well-known across the Atlantic for its slogan t-shirts, tracksuits, separates and exercise clothing. And it has now hit the UK.

Peace Love World’s womenswear range is split into subcategories

covering a cross-genre of casual clothing. The Love2Love line, which

is popular among a younger crowd, consists of statement tracksuits, jogging bottoms, tees and sweatshirts. The Boheme line, meanwhile, offers light and breezy pieces that can be layered to create a relaxed silhouette. Lastly the Comfy collection appeals to a range of consumers with its slouchy tops, hoodies and trousers that are made for relaxing.

So if you’re looking for a new brand with a strong global following, Peace Love World is poised to become a strong contender in the UK for SS13 and beyond.

CONTACT: Tel: 01254 917 987 E: Ukenquiries@peaceloveworld.com

NAD DESIGNS Handcrafted and Gold plated using Semi precious stones.

Spring/Summer Collection has now launched!

Tel: 0777 551 8767 www.nad-designs.co.uk May 2013 | boutique. | 23

CATEGORY FOCUS

Most wanted accessories Unusual gifts, bags and jewellery to help set your store apart

GIGI HANDBAG COLLECTION

KUTUU

KONPLOTT

Available from the beginning of July, Gigi’s AW13 collection features some of the label’s best sellers from its back catalogue. In addition to popular antique leather pieces , it has also added new mock-croc handbags and matching accessories.

Tel: 0844 556 5530 E: debbievenner@ mayfairtrunkcompany.co.uk

Kutuu’s UK-made pewter range includes key rings featuring its signature, sentimental messages such as ‘you are loved’ and ‘love you to the moon and back.’ Also key to the range are its palm-sized pewter dishes for holding jewellery and spare change.

Tel: 01352 756 797 Kutuuwholesale.co.uk

Leading international fashion jewellery label Konplott creates limited edition handmade pieces. Focused on quality and attention to detail, designer Miranda Konstantinidou’s distinct signature appeals to women of all ages and has appeared in countless film and television productions. Tel: 01304 224 288 E: seward@sales.konplott.com

REW

CHRYSALIS

BAGABOOK

With a unique take on the classic scarf, Rew’s quirky collars have been given a retro twist for SS13. Offering customers an instant-yet-understated fashion update that can be teamed with a range of garments, the company supplies its stockists in season so they can react quickly to trends. E: info@ rewclothing.co.uk Rewclothing.co.uk

Created by Brit brand Chrysalis, Life is a collection of expandable bangles each featuring pretty tags and a unique expandable mechanism that allows one size to fit all. An ideal treat for customers or a great gift idea, choose from a selection of twelve designs.

Tel: 01823 699 130 Chrysalisjewellery.com

Born out of love of books, travel and fashion, Bagabook allows users to carry books of various thicknesses with an attached bookmark and travel pocket all secured with a magnetic clasp. Choose from the long handled Classic design or short handled Executive. Tel: 07821 895 381 E: info@bagabook.com Bagabook.com

24 | boutique. | May 2013

Naomi & Nicole

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ETHICAL FASHION

Nature’s way Introducing some of the industry’s most ethical brands that believe in fair pay, sustainability and style with a conscience

MAFANA

Launched five years ago to improve the lives of people living in poverty in Madagascar, Mafana offers a range of high quality Fair Trade and environmentally sustainable handcrafted handbags. The company provides “regular work for a fair reward” and also donates a percentage of its profits to local charities.

The label’s latest collections feature block and bright colours. It has also introduced a clutch range featuring an evening bag that can hold a tablet computer. Meanwhile, its signature baskets remain a top sellers and its new animal print and star versions for SS13 have been a big hit among buyers.

Lastly, for summer holidays, its Ocean bag packs flat into a suitcase and features a water resistant lining.

The majority of Mafana’s pieces are available on short order while its minimum order requirement is £170.

CONTACT: Tel: 0845 224 7924 Mafana.com

COCOWAI

Set up over 16 years ago in Nepal by founder Frances Macaulay, Cocowai specialises in Fair Trade cashmere shawls, wraps and accessories. The company supports an independent family-run factory, which employs a small team of workers that hand make its products in fair conditions.

For SS13 it has produced a line of fine cashmere stoles in a range of colours including graded shades and two-tone blocking. Meanwhile for AW13 it has created giant cashmere wraps that are so large that they double up as throws. Also look out for gloves, socks, arm warmers, hot water bottles and snoods.

Cocowai offers fast delivery and a low minimum order requirement.

The brand will be showing at Scoop this August.

CONTACT: Tel: 01202 701 888 Cocowai.com

SHARED EARTH

Shared Earth started in 1986 to promote Fair Trade and environmental sustainability. It gives work to small producer groups and businesses, many of them women, as well as the disabled.

Specialising in handmade gifts, accessories, handbags and stationery, a key focus for the brand is to use materials that are as sustainable as possible. Many of its products are made from recycled materials including old saris, tyres, bicycle chains, plastic bags, bottle tops, pencil stubs and door locks. Meanwhile its high quality, eco-friendly bags are made from jute in Kolkata, India.

The brand’s bestselling bags for SS13 include kitsch, vintage, cupcake and tropical bird print designs. New themes are introduced regularly and exclusive branded designs can be made especially for boutiques at reasonable prices.

CONTACT: Tel: 01904 670 321 Sharedearth.co.uk 26 | boutique. | May 2013

ETHICAL FASHION

KOMODO

Offering ethically sourced fashion using natural and organic fabrics, the idea for London label Komodo was born in Bali in the summer of 1988.

A pioneering time for ethical fashion, its creator’s vision was to utilise the skills of workers in Bali and Nepal to created Fair Trade clothing using sustainable materials. Today with headquarters in London’s Primrose Hill, it still follows the same philosophy to create fashion as ethically as possible.

Celebrating its 25-year anniversary, dresses from its past collections feature heavily in the label’s SS13 line. Classic styles inspired by the ‘20s and ‘50s are key alongside drop-waist and sundress styles made from 100 per cent organic cotton. Meanwhile, classic pieces including Breton tops and lightweight knits add to the laid-back summer aesthetic that has become synonymous with Komodo’s bohemian signature.

Wholesale prices range from £11 to £38 while the minimum order requirement is £500.

CONTACT: Tel: 0207 722 3523 E: sales@komodo.co.uk Komodo.co.uk

NOMADS

Ethical brand Nomads began in 1989 when founders Duncan Harvey and Vicky Jackson met on a backpacking holiday in India. Their shared love of handcrafted embellished fabrics formed the basis for this brand’s signature look. Today they work with a UK designer who draws inspiration from her travels in India to create versatile easy-to-wear dresses, tunics, coats and jackets.

The brand has Fair Trade deep rooted in its philosophy; it is against child labour and makes sure that the workers that create its clothing are paid fairly and with benefits. Nomads supports small scale crafts such as hand woodblock printing and hand tie dye to help villages who rely on these trades to survive. It also offers a range of organic cotton clothing, which has low impact on the planet. Its AW13 collection features subtle decorative prints including oriental blooms with birds, multi-colour paisley and floral graphics. Colours inspired by fall leaves of every colour plus damson and deepest teal contrast against soft shades of grey, lilac, ivory and sage. Key pieces include soft flattering tunics for day and evening as well as versatile printed dresses.

CONTACT: Tel: 01566 777 338 Nomadsclothing.com

BETH JORDAN

UK womenswear label Beth Jordan launched in 2010 but has been supplying various brands on the high street for over 15 years. The label specialises in easy-to-wear pieces in retro-inspired geometric and floral prints while its signature dresses are available in both printed and plain versions each season and can be mixed and matched with its separates, knitwear and scarves.

The brand is focused on working as ethically as possible with its suppliers and clients by paying a fair price for its materials and manufacture. “We are not looking to change the world radically but to improve step-by-step the way we work with our suppliers,” says founder Beth Jordan. “We do not squeeze anyone on price to the extent that it is impossible for them to grow as a business and benefit their workers. This whole price strategy is one of the leading reasons why poverty still exists in many parts of the world.”

Beth Jordan is preparing to show its SS14 collection at this August’s Pure, which will include a range of flattering dress shapes for women of all ages topped with luxurious cashmere cardigans. Themed around retro ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s shapes, key styles will include prints and luxury jacquard border fabrics.

CONTACT: Tel: 0207 482 7008 Planetaidltd.com May 2013 | boutique. | 27

ADVERTORIAL

All paired up R

German trousers specialist Michèle has delivered a strong collection for AW13 featuring a range of day-to-night styles

enowned for its high quality and impeccably cut trousers, German label Michèle exports over 1 million pairs around the globe to over 1,500 indies.

Dedicated to creating the perfect trousers for every woman, Michèle’s design team concentrates on feminine cuts and high quality fabrics. Moreover it colour codes all of its fits, which vary according to thigh width, to help customers find their perfect fit.

For AW13, skinny styles feature heavily with details inspired by the active and casual wear sector showing up on formal styles. Meanwhile, denims get a luxe update with rhinestones embellishments while

sporty cotton styles feature seam stitching, zips and rivets.

Innovative fabrics create new looks for Michèle’s ever-popular body shaping Magic trousers and jeans.

Denim styles with inset side panels, new stitching details and rhinestone applications are key highlights. Fresh colours and washed looks are offered in super stretch cotton while fine baby cord and washed velvet create a vintage inspired look. Complementing the sporty selection are Magic business trousers in super elastic double weave cloth offering an ultra flattering shape.

The brand has also unveiled a debut skirt range consisting of around 70 pieces. Wholesale prices range from £30 to £49.

CONTACT: Tel: 0207 636 4207 Michele-fashion.de Partnersinfashion.com

Designing / Refurbishing / Transforming Shops in Greater London Creative Designs. Competitive Pricing Policy tel. 020 83680045 email info@thamescontracts.com Thames Contracts Ltd 707 High Road London N12 OBT

28 | boutique. | May 2013

BM1012A

INDUSTRY VOICE

French lessons A career in fashion design and manufacturing gives Judy French a huge advantage in spotting best-sellers for her shop. By Eric Musgrave

W

hen Judy French looks through a collection she’s better qualified than most indies to judge the quality of its manufacture and price. Because prior to opening her eponymous boutique in Kent’s Westerham six years ago, she spent almost 30 years designing and manufacturing for brands like Planet, Alexon, Laura Ashley and Macy’s (USA) and later, with her own company, supplying major names like Boden, Mulberry, Burberry and House of Fraser with own-label product.

In addition, running the Wealth of Nations mail order business and its shops more recently have also boosted her impressive set of skills.

Despite many years “down south”, French’s accent still has traces of her Middlesbrough roots. After gaining a First Class degree in fashion and print design at Ravensbourne College in 1978, she started learning to be what she calls “a proper jobbing designer.” She says: “I always felt that my job was to produce something that ordinary women with regular bodies would like to wear. My idea of a good design is one that is a best seller in the shops. Too many designers design for themselves, not the consumer.”

Today her Judy French boutique occupies the ground floor of a Victorian building overlooking over Westerham’s green. There are four other fashion shops locally, so to make her mark, French concentrates on collections that are versatile, represent good value for money and fit women aged 40-plus. “We are very keen on what we call ‘season-surfers’, clothes that can be worn for most of the year,” she explains. “My background makes it easy to look at a range and pick out the best sellers. Almost everything

is well made these days, but the fit is all-important, so I check out things like the neck drop, shoulder length, position of the armholes, where the waist sits – all the elements that affect women who have ‘real’ bodies with the usual lumps and bumps.”

Although she stresses that it is not a mother-of-the-bride shop, Judy French does concentrate on some outfits for special occasions. “There is always a party or celebration to attend, but these days my clients want something that can be worn again,” she says. “We do wearable outfits, nothing blousey.”

Key brands include Michaela Louisa, Alquema, Out of Exile, Simclan, Vetono, Mado and Gozé. The Japanese label Yacco Maricard, which specialises in Issey Miyake-like pleated pieces is one of her more expensive lines selling at £199 for a jacket, while something like a Tina Taylor two-piece suit costing £179 is her entry level or, as she puts it, “attractively priced”.

With her experience of designing and producing entire collections, French has a great eye for merchandising. The shop is arranged by product type rather than by brand or price and she and her three parttime colleagues encourage customers to mix and match from the selection rather than walking out head to foot in one label.

“Our whole attitude to selling is to say to the customer, ‘come on, try it on and make sure you are happy with it’,” she explains. “With a French brand like Gozé, it’s going to be cut small, so I don’t buy the first size. We say: ‘Don’t worry if the label says Size 46; concentrate on how good you look in it.”

The casual offer comes from brands like the “attractively priced” Capri, Two Danes (“they use very nice natural fibres like bamboo”) and Mac, whose

£119 jeans dominate the hanging unit that holds all the shop’s trousers.

French, who joined the Fashion Association of Britain on her bank manager’s recommendation when she opened her shop to save money on credit card transactions, forever keeps in mind her customers’ lifestyles and what makes them look good and feel comfortable. “We are great at putting together layered looks here,” she says.

“We do very well with flat-fronted pull-up trousers that are almost like leggings. They give a clean line when worn under jersey tops, for example.”

And a final word on what fashion should be about from this former “old-school rag-trade designer”: “I am sick to the back teeth of designers who only produce things in black and pare everything down. My customers come to me because they want colour and fun from their clothes.”

Judy French is a member of the Fashion Association of Britain (FAB) FashionassociationofBritain.co.uk May 2013 | boutique. | 29

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DOWN TO BUSINESS STEVE MADDEN

A helping hand for fashion indies

Forever friends

A

ttracting new customers is a must for indies.

However, retaining loyal fans year after year is every business owner’s Holy Grail.

That’s why this month we’ve enlisted the expertise of customer loyalty expert Sarah Cross to find out how boutique owners can make their offer truly irresistible. Because when a fashion fan enters your store for the first time, it should be just the beginning…

May 2013 | boutique. | 31

DOWN TO BUSINESS STEVE MADDEN

Fans for life Customer loyalty expert Sarah Cross reveals how indies can adapt some of the tricks used by major retailers to retain a strong base of brand devotees

Y

our store’s customer base is without a doubt its most precious business asset.

And looking after regular spenders will help breed staunch supporters and create your very own brand devotees.

As the managing director of Uber UK, a company that specialises in the business of retaining customer loyalty, I could write an entire book on the facts and figures on this subject. But as time is of the essence for us all, my message is simple: 93 per cent of your customers (or potential ones) are more likely to increase their spending if you have a fantastic loyalty programme in place.

Staying loyal Loyalty programmes have been around for many years and they are increasingly used by retailers – or indeed any company selling a product – to encourage customers to stick with their brand. On the high street the Boots Advantage card is a prime example as is Sainsbury’s Nectar scheme. But as retaining custom in today’s rocky economy becomes even more important, smaller stores are also 32 | boutique. | May 2013

adapting similar techniques to devise their own loyalty programmes.

So what makes a loyalty programme truly fantastic? There are four key ingredients that, if used correctly, will conjure one recipe for success.

These include exclusivity (all clients want to feel special), surprise (because everyone loves a surprise), immediate value (reward them straight away and they’ll be back in no time for more), and personalisation (this makes your customers feel even more special).

In today’s climate, spending money on fashion is often a treat. So to persuade customers to buy something out of desire rather than necessity, they need to feel extra special. Stamp cards and points-based systems will just make them feel like everyone else. However, personalised and added value extras will enhance their entire shopping experience.

How do you do this? Retailers need to work at creating a VIP community of loyal customers by offering them little extras to simply show them how much they are valued. A complimentary glass of bubbly or oneto-one shopping experience will give

them a feel good factor that will not only make them want to come back, but also spread the word among their friends.

Identify your customer In today’s difficult climate, every business needs to ensure they’re winning the hearts, minds and wallets of their customers. But with so much choice, how do you make sure they choose you over competitors?

Firstly, you need to understand your customer. Don’t assume you know – do your research. What do they like?

Where do they go out? Speak to your staff, hold focus groups and conduct surveys and questionnaires. You need to truly get to know the people that buy from your store and find out what turns them on as well as off.

Well-executed research will enable you to fully understand your customer so you can speak to them personally and relevantly. This will ensure that you’re giving them exactly what they want and will keep them engaging with you more often.

Put data collection and usage at the core of your customer relationship

DOWN TO BUSINESS management programme. You need each customer’s name, address, email and date of birth (for those birthday treats) – the more you can find out the better. You can then overlay this information with your transactional data to communicate effectively, timely and relevantly.

Be aware that customers are increasingly sceptical about passing on their details, so there has to be a compelling reason for them to share it with you. Make your proposition stand out from the crowd. Highlight the benefits clearly and maybe run an initial competition to get your staff involved and excited; it’s all about building trust.

With loyalty, one size doesn’t fit all so don’t offer every customer the same. Be relevant and offer different customer segments different exclusives and benefits based on their transactions and lifestyles.

Dare to be different When communicating with your customer don’t be afraid to challenge the norm and stand out from the crowd. You could work with other non-competitor brands that your customers already love and get them excited by offering something relevant as an exclusive benefit of being your customer. That will help make them feel exclusive and part of a VIP community – even when they’re not STEVE MADDEN

spending with you.

Recent research conducted by Uber UK found that a point-based programme excites just 11 per cent of customers. They don’t work for most brands and are often perceived as dull and impersonal – so be brave and get personal. A non-point based loyalty programme is much more effective in engaging your audience; get it right and you’ll reap the rewards.

An adaptive approach is also an absolute must. Measure the success of every campaign so you can see what works and what doesn’t. The first year of running a programme should be the test and learning phase; many big retailers have a failure budget that allows them to experiment and learn more about what motivates their audience. Use your first year to find out what activity you need to do to generate the revenue you need.

But one thing I can’t stress enough is that your loyalty activity will live or die with the enthusiasm of your staff.

If they don’t believe in it then your customers won’t either. You have to invest time into getting them excited and buying into the programme for its long-term success. If they feel part of it they’ll communicate it more effectively. And don’t expect miracles straight away. Loyalty is not a quick sales fix, but with a strategic and adaptive approach you will create a community of like-minded, brand

advocates that will visit you more often – and spend more when they do.

Sarah Cross has over 16 years’ experience in loyalty and customer retention management. She is the MD for Uber, a boutique consultancy that helps brands drive revenue through strategic programmes. Follow @uber_ SarahCross and @uberUK on Twitter for industry hints and tips or visit Uber-uk.com.

TOP LOYALTY TIPS • If customers are giving you their data, you need to use it: it’s all about building trust. And once you start communicating, you need to keep doing so regularly to create a community of brand advocates.

• Your customers will be happy to hear from you if there’s something of value in your message. This means you need to be capturing the right data so that you can get in touch in a way that’s totally personal to offer them superrelevant treats, rewards and benefits.

• You need to create a loyal community around your brand that clients want to be a part of.

Forget traditional points-based programmes: your customers will feel much more excited if you get in touch to indulge them with gifts and surprises when they least expect it.

• Speak to customers how they like to be spoken to. Email is the cheapest way of getting in touch but some consumers will be more responsive to text messaging – make sure you use your data to evaluate this and act on it. Also, don’t forget social media.

• Use your data to get new customers. Encourage your existing fans to shout about you by encouraging them to refer a friend to the loyalty programme.

Treat them and their friend to a special gift voucher but give it an expiry date so that they visit straight away.

May 2013 | boutique. | 33

ADVERTORIAL

Holiday romance Sustainable fashion label Komodo is celebrating its 25-year anniversary with a standout collection of summer essentials

I

nspired by sun-dappled flowers in bloom and the white washed cobbled streets of the Mediterranean, Komodo’s SS13 collection is filled with timeless pieces that evoke memories of long summer days. With a focus on prints and lightweight sustainable and organic fabrics, it is a celebration of the ethical label’s 25-year milestone as an independent brand.

From classic garments to detailed pieces, the collection is teeming with bright colours and prints that are perfect for summer. Favourite dress shapes from the brand’s back catalogue have been reworked to create a fresh look while new contemporary styles ensure that dresses are a standout

feature. Harnessing classic styles from the ‘20s and ‘50s, drop-waist and cinched-waist styles alongside a lace-inspired Sunny dress made from

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100% organic cotton are sure to be best sellers. The collection is classically stylish and on-trend yet timeless. From breton-striped tops to creamy lightknit cardigans, it has an easy-to-wear summer aesthetic that customers of all ages will love. Offering a rainbow of summer colours, the collection sees bright corals and bold grassy greens sit alongside optic whites, citrus yellows and foamy sea blues. Meanwhile, key prints include bright florals, abstract lace-inspired prints, polka dots and stripes.

Wholesale prices range from £11 to £48 and the collection is available on short order now.

CONTACT: Tel: 0207 722 3523 E: sales@komodo.co.uk Komodo.co.uk

INDUSTRY VOICE

Stop, collaborate and listen

As the British high street faces further decline, Rachel Parkin reveals why the indies of Peterborough aren’t taking it lying down

“T

he state of the high street is currently big news but for those of us who have been trading for some time, it has become clear that big changes need to be made. Upward only rent reviews, greedy landlords, sky-high parking charges and ridiculous business rates all coupled with a deep recession have created one of the most challenging times that most of us can remember.

“Having run my shop, Reba boutique, in Peterborough for 18 years now I’d say that these are new times.

City centres need a mixture of stores to work and be attractive to shoppers: the days of the butcher, baker and candlestick maker may be over but we still need a healthy mix to make a trip into town worthwhile.

“This is why I believe indies need to collaborate to help each other. We don’t have huge budgets and resources for advertising and promotions, but we do still need to raise our profile and let people know what we have to

offer. At the beginning of the year, I decided to join forces with some fellow local retailers to launch Local Indie Retailers. This collaboration is offering many advantages and has given us a more powerful voice when dealing with the local council too.

“It’s early days but we are already benefiting from sharing knowledge, skill sets, experience and a sense of community. We have a surprisingly wide range of retailers interested in our group ranging from art galleries to tea shops and salons. We’ve also had support from the local media and local organisations such as the council and Opportunity Peterborough.

“Local Indie Retailers is about raising awareness and pooling resources – but much more than that, it’s an idea thats time has come. All the retailers met up and helped devised a three-phase plan. Initially, we need to raise awareness and it’s a perfect time to do that. Phase two is to create a map of the city centre promoting the indies that bring fun and pizzazz to our community. The third phase relates to the city itself and the changes that we believe will help grow the city. This is the future vision of Peterborough and includes attracting visitors and giving them things to do that will make them stay.

“Reports like the Portas Review are still making the national news and while we all accept that there has to be an evolution of the high street, we think that there should be some kind of vision for this. Our city centres are not cash cows and they’re not the gift that keeps on giving. There has to be real investment into the infrastructure,

town centre aesthetics and the amenities for them to survive.

“Looking at the individual stores involved in Local Indie Retailers it’s clear we’re all different. But what we have in common is actually more relevant than what we don’t: we’re all hard workers who want our businesses to be successful – not simply because of the money (although that is a signpost that you’re doing things right) – it’s more a case of a vision.

“So the ultimate aim is to raise the profile of indies in the city and to have credibility to talk to the council about a long-term vision. I think that the timing is perfect and I’d love to see other cities and towns joining us.

“Collaboration is the name of the game for 2013.”

Rachel Parkin is a jewellery designer and accessories wholesaler for the Balagan Group as well as the owner of Peterborough independent Reba boutique.

May 2013 | boutique. | 35

RETAIL SOFTWARE

Virtual partners Stay one step ahead of competitors with the industry’s best digital business management solutions

VISUALSOFT

F

ounded in 1998, Stockton-based software supplier Visualsoft has grown exponentially to become one of the largest fashion ecommerce providers in the UK, employing over 130 staff. Its VS3 software is among the most highly regarded in the industry and has helped many successful indies make their mark online from Jules B to Psyche and Morgan Clare.

Since its launch the full-service digital retail agency has continually provided solutions that surpass expectations, enhance brand perception, generate revenue and provide maximum return on investment. This formula has seen Visualsoft experience rapid growth and secured the company a strong market position.

Visualsoft also develops websites for retailers who want maximum return on their investment. Its websites provide retailers with an optimum ecommerce platform to build their online business. Each runs on an accomplished featurerich ecommerce platform, allowing the company’s team to build powerful bespoke websites behind striking, intuitive designs. Its multichannel ecommerce platform allows retailers to engage with customers across multiple marketplaces automatically, and manage these channels remotely from a single administration panel.

CONTACT: Tel: 01642 633604 Visualsoft.co.uk 36 | boutique. | May 2013

FASHIONE

L

aunched in 2005, Mode Retail’s Fashione system was developed to offer a simple, affordable and flexible solution for fashion independents.

Used by a range of successful indies across the UK, Fashione has become renowned for its ability to support

POS, stock movement and customer relation management.

Key benefits include full management of stock and sales analysis developed specifically for indies with both single stores and multi-channel operations; flexible functions and features that can be

“Used by a range of successful indies across the UK, Fashione has become renowned for its ability to support fashion retailers in all aspects of multichannel retailing and in-store customer relations” fashion retailers in all aspects of multi-channel retailing and in-store customer relations.

Mode Retail’s Fashione software is constantly being updated and developed using feedback from retailers. Its most recent focus has been on the real requirements of fashion

chosen to suit the individual business; quarterly updates including new reports to assist owners; as well as an extensive range of reports pertinent to fashion indies.

CONTACT: Tel: 01257 220 205 Fashione.co.uk

RETAIL SOFTWARE

CYBERTILL

B

outique owners can take Cybertill software with them wherever they go. Because it is web-based, the system can be accessed on tablets and smart phones whether buyers are out on buying trips, working from home or on the shop floor.

One of its biggest advantages is its real-time EPoS stock control system

to optimise sales and offer more convenient services.

Cybertill offers a wide variety of tools that allow retailers to offer their customers a seamless shopping experience from click and collect to an integrated store and web loyalty programme.

The company updates its software

“Using Cybertill, retailers can run a bricks-andclicks service with confidence and without the worry of overselling stock allowing indies to optimise sales and offer more convenient services.” for indies operating a multi-channel business. This integrated retail system links ecommerce, eBay and Amazon to back office software to give retailers a real time view of sales and stock levels. Using Cybertill, retailers can run a bricks-and-clicks service with confidence and without the worry of overselling stock allowing indies

38 | boutique. | May 2013

free of charge every two months, which is all completed online. Prices for the software start from £38 per week – making the system affordable for a cross section of businesses whatever their size and turnover.

CONTACT: Tel: 0800 030 4432 E: enquiries@cybertill.co.uk Cybertill.co.uk

LOIS SYSTEMS

L

OIS is a live, fully interactive omnichannel retail system encompassing Point of Sale, Stock Control, eCommerce and all management functions from a single cloud-based source.

The system is the ultimate solution for reaching, maintaining and extending customer relationships as well as growing sales at home and overseas.

Benefits include stock accuracy together with speed and efficiency of sales processes. Human resource efficiency is maximised by automating multiple processes and allowing the retailer to let the system take over managing various aspects of the business online and in store. The system has been designed to maximise stock efficiency as well as personnel, allowing the retailer to manage their business with ease anytime and anywhere.

Moreover, the richness of the LOIS system is complemented by J2 Retail Systems’ hardware, which is one of the most reliable, aesthetically pleasing, robust and cost effective touch screen EPoS terminals available in today’s market.

CONTACT: Tel 01243 533 737 Lois-systems.co.uk J2retailsystems.com

Ecommerce software that allows you to stand out from the crowd E-commerce

EPoS Mail Order

Light cotton and cashmere knitwear with jersey separates.

Available on 2-3 weeks delivery.

Choose from a full palette of colours.

Low minimum order.

Prices ÂŁ19 - ÂŁ46

www.saskia.co.uk 01843 299689 info@saskia.co.uk

May 2013 | boutique. | 39

BT05

city link

The retail scene spotlight IMAGE COURTESY OF VISIT LONDON IMAGES/ SHERADON DUBLIN

Central London

D

ominated by cash-rich multiples, some of London’s most popular shopping streets are also home to a clutch of independent gems. From Oxford Street to Covent Garden and Marylebone to Soho, we reveal how some of the UK’s best indies have carved out a successful business in the capital…

May 2013 | boutique. | 41

City limits

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF LONDON ON VIEW/ PAWEL LIBERA

CITY LINK

Outshining world-class competition with stratospheric rents and rates is the biggest challenge facing Central London’s independent fashion retailers

A

t first glace Central London may seem like a retailer’s dream.

Its attractions pull in around 26 million tourists every year.

Meanwhile, with 7.6 million people living in its vicinity as well as 1 million affluent commuters pouring in from all over the UK daily, it is ranked the fifteenth largest and third busiest city on the entire planet.

But with so many obvious benefits, the disadvantages for setting up shop in the ever-popular capital are inevitable. And those businesses benefiting from high footfall and a captive audience with money to spend must be willing to pay for the privilege.

For anyone looking for a retail outlet in the heart of Soho, there’s a 1,000 sq ft A1 property currently on the rentals market on Old Compton Street for £100,000 per annum. Or, if Covent Garden is more appealing, expect to pay around £80,000 for an outlet of the same size, depending on its location.

With such prices in mind, it’s unsurprising that the majority of Central London’s retailers are global chains or international brands.

42 | boutique. | May 2013

However, in between some of the world’s best department stores and the likes of Topshop, Zara, H&M et al, there’s a smattering of top quality indies offering something different in a city that seemingly already has it all.

To survive, stocking unique collections or offering a service that’s above the norm is vital. For with thousands of shops in just one small area, competition is rife. Moreover, with the likes of Selfridges and Liberty vying for the best collections, it’s even harder still to run a successful multibrand store.

But there are indies that are successful in the capital. Luxury boutique Brown’s, which has seen major expansion since it opened its first shop on South Molten Street in 1970, is one of Britain’s most successful independents. Its owner Joan Burstein is among the most influential women in fashion and is credited with discovering the likes of John Galliano, Alexander McQueen, Hussein Chalayan and Commes des Garcons. And she’s not alone in making headlines for indies in a city so densely populated with multiples:

the success of Dover Street Market is a modern example of the riches that can be made in the capital.

So where are the best places to open a business? London’s most famous shopping area is Oxford Street, which spans for more than one and a half miles and is home to around 300 stores.

But for those looking for more niche stores and smaller brand names, Carnaby Street is home to multitude of boutiques owned by international brands while visitors can also find some indies on its connecting roads.

Likewise, Covent Garden and Soho – particularly Seven Dials and Kingley Court – are hotspots for finding the most diverse brands in the capital.

For shoppers, London is among the best cities in the world. And for the retailers that can afford to do business there, its benefits are far reaching. But whether it is an independent’s dream or nightmare depends on the owner and their ability to carve out a concept that’s a unique as the city. And with so much competition, that is surely one of the biggest challenges in the entire industry.

CITY LINK

Star attractions

Oxford Street

Competition

Boutique districts

London is home to a series of tourist attractions, which is partly why it pulls in around 26 million visitors every year.

From the London Eye to Big Ben, the footfall they generate is a real benefit for retailers.

With so many retailers vying for business in the capital, indies can find themselves trying to compete with the likes of Selfridges and international chains. So to be successful, standing out from the crowd is a must.

Shopping heaven (or hell for some) can be found on Oxford Street. Home to around 300 shops – with the majority being multiples – its conjoining streets lead to some of the country’s best independent fashion stores and retailers.

Covent Garden and Carnaby Street are among some of the best areas to find smaller, niche boutiques and brands.

While the majority are backed by major corporations there are some true indies making the city work for their business.

May 2013 | boutique. | 43

CITY LINK

THE INSIDE STORY Gemma Ward gets the low-down on two of Central London’s best fashion indies

Other 21 Kingly Street, London, W1B 5QA

P

roviding a platform for fringe fashion talent, Other in London’s vibrant Soho is a destination boutique for urban creatives. The store is an evolution of London independent B Store, which launched with the same unique concept on Saville Row 11 years ago. Fast-forward to September 2012 and founders Matthew Murphy and Kurt Beattie had bought out their third business partner, moved to new premises on Kingly Street and rebranded the company as Other.

The concept is now a successful bricks-and-mortar store selling its own-name label alongside a range of “hard to find” and “key anchor” menswear and womenswear brands.

Other also operates an e-commerce site, which is a rapidly growing part of the business.

Best selling labels include mid to high brands such as Sophie Hulme, Christophe Lemaire and Christian Wijnants. And while the owners don’t insist on exclusivity, the store is the only place in London that shoppers can find the collections.

Other also injects around six new brands each season – including graduate collections and newly set up international labels – with an aim to offer products that aren’t readily available elsewhere.

While it is a business, Murphy maintains that the shop is far from being focused merely on financial gain. Having long been a champion of emerging talent (among many other projects he worked with the British Fashion Council to launch MAN), the co-owner is keen to fly the flag for new designers and help make their commercial dreams a reality. “There’s so much talent out there that it can be 44 | boutique. | May 2013

very hard for new designers to become successful,” says Murphy. “So we work with them as closely as we can to try and help them with their collections and overall business. Working with us means that new designers have more time to grow – we don’t expect them to be an instant success after one season.”

Indeed rather than buying in brands and hoping that they sell, Other holds special events, organises collaborations and provides in-house PR support to boost awareness of its designers.

“It’s not just about lifting brands,” says Murphy. “We want to make the experience exclusive for our customers by offering limited products.”

Specialising in unknown designers is a risky business. But for Other, which has carved out its own niche as

the authority for the next big thing in emerging talent, offering truly unique brands is an imperative to its success.

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Oxygen Boutique 51 Eastcastle St., London, W1W 8EB

S

ituated in Central London’s fashion wholesale quarter tucked behind Oxford Street, Oxygen Boutique has become renowned for its “fun and fashionforward” collection edits that are often unavailable elsewhere in the capital.

The store is the brainchild of mother and daughter duo Helen and Joanna Nicola who both come from a familyrun manufacturing business supplying fashion to high street chains. Based on their mutual admiration for the multilabel boutiques that are popular in the US, they wanted to use their strong knowledge of international brands to bring something completely different to London. “We were finding lots of cool labels in America that weren’t available here,” says Joanna, who also spent a stint in New York as a buyer before she came back to the UK to open the store. “There’s a different way of shopping over that we loved and wanted to replicate. People in America are more open to new brands and we found so many amazing labels that no one here had ever heard of. We wanted to bring something new and refreshing to the UK.” With their strong store concept in mind, the Nicolas opened Oxygen in March ’09, transforming the front of the family’s manufacturing business into retail space. Then last month, after the business had experienced rapid growth, they moved across the road to larger premises inside a former art gallery.

Oxygen’s brands are 90 per cent American, with best sellers including Sea New York, Alice and Olivia and footwear designer Jeffery Campbell.

And although they often see their labels going from being virtually unknown to become stocked by the likes of Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Net-a-Porter, Joanna says buying different pieces from the same collection ensures that their stock is still largely exclusive. “My mum and I do all the buying together,” she explains. “We have a similar eye so it 46 | boutique. | May 2013

works extremely well.

After four years we’ve really got to know what our customers want but I think we also have quite a fun style that helps set us apart from the bigger stores. We’re also not afraid to take risks.”

For SS13 Oxygen also debuted own label Related, which is created by the family’s manufacturing business. Featuring a bright colour palette, strong prints and fashion-forward silhouettes, it sits well with the store’s other labels while adding to a point of difference.

“We tried to keep the prices reasonable by keeping everything under the £300 retail mark,” says Joanna. “It has sold incredibly well in the store and online and we’ve just taken on agents and other UK stockists while we’re hoping to export globally soon.”

Oxygen’s brand selections for SS13 have proved to be so popular with customers that by the beginning of May they’d already sold out of many lines. “Despite the weather a lot of our summer dresses had already sold out so we had to order in more,” says Joanna. “We’ve had customers in looking for outfits for weddings, which

has helped. But we also don’t go crazy on buying one item. We want to sell out and not sit on items for ages to keep it refreshing for our customers.”

The boutique’s online store has also been a huge success. Since deciding to pool more efforts into e-commerce around 18 months ago, Joanna says it now attracts more sales than the bricks-and-mortar store. “It’s been a fantastic year for the web,” she explains. “This is definitely what we’ll be concentrating on for the near future instead of opening another physical store. We really want to grow this area so we can reach global customers.”

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SUPPLIER DIRECTORY Alice Hannah Accessories Ltd Brand - Alice Hannah 7 Plough Lane, Teddington, Middlesex, TW1 9HX T: 020 8349 9383 W: www.alicehannah.co.uk

Amari Designs Ltd Brands: Amari, Lily & Me 12A Newport Industrial Estate, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 8EX T: 01566 779477 / 01566 772121 E: sales@amaridesigns.co.uk enquiries@amaridesigns.co.uk W: www.amariuk.com / www.lily-and-me.com

anneodowd agency Brand: Ronen Chen T: 020 7402 5292 E: anne@anneodowd.com W: www.anneodowd.com

Apollo Accessories T: 0121 236 3955 E: sales@eapollo.co.uk W: www.eapollo.co.uk

Arianna Clothing Contact: Jenny Mullan T: 02890 781195 E: jenny@aria.ie W: www.arianna-clothing.com

Bestseller Wholesale UK Brands: Vero Moda, Vero Moda Very, VILA, ONLY, Selected Femme and Pieces T: 020 3205 03112.

E: sian.nuttall@bestseller.com W: www.bestseller.com

Boutique Agency UK Memento for you jewellery – www. mementoforyou.com Deriva Jewels – www. derivajewels.nl YAYA – www.yaya.nl T: 0208 349 5234 E: contact@boutiqueagencyuk.com W: www.boutiqueagencyuk.com

Capri Clothing T: 0203 490 8361 E: sales@capriclothing.co.uk W: www.capriclothing.co.uk

Caro London Exclusive Loungewear and Accessories Studio 65, 65a Southgate Road, London, N1 3JS T: 0207 6880596 E: info@carolondon.co.uk W: www.carolondon.com

Chi Chi T: 0208 880 1211 E: chichiconcessions@gmail.com W: www.chichiclothingonline.com

48 | boutique. | May 2013

Clamor Fashion Agency Brands: Eva, Eve in Paradise (for North of England,Scotland and Wales), Tralala, Krinès Berlin, and Simclan. Contact: Clare Morgan T: 07770 66 49 77 W: www.clamorfashion.com

Crea Concept Contact: Paulette Cohen and Jade Hofmayer T: 020 7436 0631 E: paulette@creaconcept.co.uk W: www.creaconcept.com

Dragon Display Systems Ltd Specialists in wall and centre shop display systems for clothing T: 01952 290055 E: sales@dragondisplay.co.uk W: www.dragondisplay.co.uk

Dynasty

Dynasty is one of the UK’s leading occasionwear labels. Using only the finest fabrics and most beautiful embellishments and prints, their talented team of designers and suppliers create stunning designs each season.

T: 0208 736 0200 E: enquiries@dynastyuk.co.uk W: www.dynastyuk.co.uk

Easton Design Studio Handbags, Travel Bags, Business Accessories, Wallets & Purses, Cosmetic Bags T: 01483 272309 E: info@eastonddesignstudio.com W: www.eastondesignstudio.com

Essay Collections Limited Brand: ART Contact: Momi / Ijaz T: 0207 636 2828 E: sales@essaycollections.com W: www.essaycollections.com

Essential Collections Ltd Brands: Pause Café, Les Fées Du Vent, Epicéa, Un Point C’est Tout, Gantebs T: 0161 238 8570 E: info@essentialcollections.net W: www.essentialcollections.net

Eucalyptus Clothing T: 0207 740 6323 E: enquiries@eucalyptusclothing.co.uk W: www.eucalyptusclothing.co.uk

Eurostop Limited Contact: Phillip Moylan T: 020 8991 2700, E: Phillipm@eurostop.co.uk W: www.eurostop.co.uk

Extravagance Limted T/A Sarah Pacini Brand: Sarah Pacini Contact: Nazma T: 020 7636 1280 E: nazmac@sarahpacini.com W: www.sarahpacini.com

Fairground Fairground is famous for its signature free-spirited knockout collections. The Fairground Fashion House releases 13 collections per year particularly with the injection collections dropping into Store every month.

E: enquires@welovefairground.com

Fashion Closet West Midlands Range of Womenswear. Plus Size.

Stock Clearance.

T: 0121 243 9683

Funky Jewellery Ogmore Vale T: 01656842102 E: vikrevelle@funkyjewellery.com

Gift Warehouse Scarves, Handbags and Jewellery Supplier Contact: Kewel Athwal T: 0115 946 1173 W: www.giftwarehouse.eu

Ingenue London T: 0207 247 7424 E: wholesale@ingenuelondon.com W: www.ingenuelondon.com

Jayley Collection Offers superior quality faux fur coats, gilets and accessories including huffs, cuffs, collars and ponchos.

We also carry a range of ethically sourced real furs. With stock available and Immediate delivery.

Showroom visits by appointment only.

T: 01782 658947 E: sales@jayleycollection.com W: www.jayleycollection.com

Kamuflage Brand: German Brand E: info@kamuflage.de W: kamuflage.fashion123.de

Komodo 77C King Henrys Road, London Womenswear T: 02077223523 E: tony@komodo.co.uk W: www.komodo.co.uk

Konplott Konplott is now one of the leading international fashion jewellery labels and continues to set world-wide trends. Konplott’s distinctive design signature appeals to women of all ages with each and every piece made by hand in limited numbers, every collection is exclusive.

T: 01304 224288 E: seward@sales.konplott.com W: www.konplott.com

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY Kutuu Kutuu is a brand created by Hannah Salomon.

The range of jewellery and gifts combines messages, words and symbols to create inspiring designs holding special meanings.

All products are made in the UK and assembled by hand.

Unit 2 Long Barn, Pistyll Farm, Nercwys, Mold, CH7 4EW T: 01352 756797 E: mail@kutuuwholesale.co.uk W: www.kutuuwholesale.co.uk

Laceys Footwear T: 0207 7390 398 E: michael@laceysfootwear.com W: www.laceysfootwear.co.uk

Leap N Link Ltd Brands: Leslie Monte-Carlo, Aventures Des Toiles Contact: Pierre and Bhavna T: 0161 713 1803 E: info@leapnlink.co.uk W: www.leapnlink.co.uk

Lesser & Pavey Ltd Suppliers of Quality and Original Products V&A Bags, Travel Mugs, Keep Calm products, Trendy Quality Reading Glasses, Fashion Eye Lashes, Foil Nails and Sparkle Lips, Social Stationery.

T: 01233 279225 E: sales@leonardo.co.uk W: www.leonardo.co.uk

Madam Rage Update your Boutique with the hottest women’s fashion of the season from Madam Rage’s fantastic collection of women’s formal, going out dresses, tops and knitwear. Carries stock and short order T: 01977 551907 E: wholesale@madamrage.co.uk W: www.madamrage.com

Mali Lacia Mali Lacias offers an exquisite range of precious and semi precious jewellery.

All products are handmade in the UK. T: 01923 750 333 E: dipalipatel0301@gmail.com W: www.mali-lacia.com

Maple Leaf Clothing Brand: Mo boutique T: 0191 2715588 E: info@moboutique.co.uk W: www.moboutique.co.uk

MDA International Brands: Lauren Vidal, Myrine & Me, Indi and Cold, Angels Never Die and Pure by M. Contact: Martin, Jacq, Hannah or Kate T: 01234 782900 E: office@mdainternational.co.uk W: www.mdainternational.co.uk

Michael Dawson Fashion Agency Brands: KJ Brand, Mona Lisa, Reichart Blusen, LauRie, See You by Biggi M Contact: Michael Dawson T: 0161 236 1976 E: michael.dawsonfa@ntlworld.com W: www.mdfa.co.uk

Nomads Discovering AW12 Trends – Global Traveller meets Moorland Mist.

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

Partners In Fashion Brands: Erfo, Frank Walder, Diktons, Just White, Kirsten, Michele, Monari, Schneiders, Seda, Tendenza 2010 T: 020 7636 4207 E: sales@partnersinfashion.co.uk W: www.partnersinfashion.com

Paraspar eCommerce Solutions Brands: Firetrap, White Stuff, Crew Clothing, Sweaty Betty, New Era Caps and Foot Asylum T: 0845 2305665 E: info@paraspar.co.uk W: www.paraspar.co.uk

Pia Rossini Womenswear & Accessories T: 02891 467999 E: sales@piarossini.com W: www.piarossini.com

Poshtotti Clothing Contact: Amanda Burwell T: 01548 858881 W: www.poshtotticlothing.co.uk

Purlfrost Ltd Purlees is an online store supplying seasonal and festive themed shop window stickers.

Brand: Purlees T: 020 8992 4024 E: info@purlees.com W: www.purlees.com

Retail IT T: 020 8605 9768 E: robert@retailit.com W: www.cegid.retailit.com

Robert Ross International Brands: Luis Civit, Aldo Martin Barcelona, Lewis Henry London Contact: Stanley or Amanda T: 0207 323 2012 E: robertrossint@tiscali.co.uk

Ruby Rocks Footwear Beautiful shoes inside and out!

Contact: Nadene Stevenson T: 07758 591995 E: info@uksole.co.uk W: www.rubyrocksfootwear.com

Sally Dawes Agency Brands: CANNISSE Elegant Casualwear, ET DIEU CREA LA FEMME, Contemporary Outerwear, CATHERINE ANDRE, Premium Knitwear, EVA & CLAUDI, Knitwear and Prints, A.B, Italian Soft Dressing T: 0116 279 01 51 E: sally@sallydawes.com W: www.sallydawes.com

TCA Showroom One of the UK’s largest fashion wholesale agencies with a large selection of brands for men and women Brands: Sinequanone, Sealkay, Klaya, New man, Gaudi, Les lumiere de la pluie Contact: Kinsie Sidolle and Carl Easton T: 0203 432 6385 E: kinsie.tcashowroom@gmail.com carl.tcashowroom@gmail.com W: www.tcashowroom.com

The Absolute Group Luxury and E-Commerce Packaging – Gift and Product Boxes, Carrier Bags, Woven Labels, Swing Tickets and Garment Trims.

Unit 7 Dorma Trading Park, Staffa Road, Leyton, London, E10 7QX T: 0208 988 5220 E: info@theabsolute.co.uk W: www.theabsolute.co.uk

The VM Source T: 01780 761947 E: info@thevmsource.co.uk W: www.thevmsource.co.uk

Top To Toe 2 Graham Road, London Software Systems stephen@toptotoe.com T: 0845 130 3535

Voyage Paris Brands: Absolu, Amazone, Calzonie, Eden Rock, Etincelle, Evaline, Exetera, Extenso, Faust, Gregg-Alexess, Jeff Gallano, Jus d’ Orange, Maille Demoiselle, Rendevouz, Sagaie, Tensione T: 020 7636 1892 E: sales@voyageparis.co.uk W: www.voyageparis.co.uk

Wembley Collections Brands: Core, Follow me, King, Unit 15, Lockwood Industrial Park, Mill Mead Road, London N17 9QP Contact: Ash Shah T: 0208 808 0550 E: wembleyfootwear@hotmail.com W: www.wembleyfashions.co.uk

YM Fashion Co (UK) Ltd Brand: Yaccomaricard Contact: Pauline Wickens T: 0207 436 8576 W: www.ym-fashion.co.uk

May 2013 | boutique. | 49

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50 | boutique. | May 2013

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