By Rachel Peru, Fashion Correspondent.
Show support for your local independent fashion shops #supportlocal
Firstly, I hope everyone is managing to keep well and positive during what is a difficult time for us all. It’s definitely given me time to reflect on a few things and I’ve been keeping creatively busy which helps keep me sane.
I’ve always been a huge fan of supporting local shops and they need our support now more than ever. Retail will no doubt take years to fully recover but it’s the smaller independent shops which have grown through someones dreams that I fear for the most.
With this in mind I wanted to show some love and support by highlighting a few of my own favourite businesses that that are still working away behind the scenes, with some selling online to make sure they will still be here for us all once this is all over.
Copper & White - York
I first came to know about Clare's York based business through York Fashion Week and I really love her mix of fashion. You can always find something different with an element of fun, and lots of colour. I love wearing these pink ditzy print flares and they make me feel happy and playful when I wear them. That's what your wardrobe should be able to do for you, fashion should be fun and able to create an emotion. Copper & White has been established since 2015 and offers contemporary luxury fashion at affordable prices.
Moo Boutique - Brighouse
At the beginning of 2019 I was determined to find an independent shops in Yorkshire and Moo Boutique is another shop that doesn't disappoint. Think laid back style with an edge and it's a place that can easily take you out of your comfort zone. I am a huge fan of dungarees, but I've not tried the boho style before. I fell in love with these "one size fits all" tie dye dungarees. They've become my new "go to" lounge wear, and I've had so many compliments whenever I've worn them. Another example of why you should always try different styles and experiment, it's easy to get stuck in a rut with your style.
Main Womenswear - Addingham
Main Womenswear is literally on my doorstep and the range of clothes is fabulous. I often struggle with larger sizes when it comes to a lot of the higher end designer brands, but Gill has found some great brands that suit a wide range of sizes. I fell in love with these Neirami Karate wide legged trousers and top! Gill has convinced me to be braver with my accessories too!
The Pod - Online
I have always bought pre-loved, second hand and vintage clothes. It's something I'm passionate about, especially as we need to move to a more sustainable fashion industry. When I came across The Pod I was impressed from the start. All credit to them as they offer a wide range of high-end designer fashion at a much more affordable price range. For those with a love of designer brands, I cannot recommend The Pod enough. It is an online business but they also host lots of pop up events throughout the year, so I can't wait to see where they will be later in the year. You can even host your own private party!
The Fitting Rooms - Ilkley
I honestly recommend every woman builds a good relationship with their local lingerie shop because when you feel good in your bra and knickers, you can leave the house with an extra boost of confidence. I have shopped with Debbie at The Fitting Rooms, Ilkley for over 10 years now and she has seen my confidence grow from first only modelling in cover ups and maxi dresses at our annual McMillan fashion show to now wearing bikinis and swimsuits for her with confidence. Debbie has owned The Fitting Rooms since 2003 and I am not surprised that she has won several awards during this time. She likes nothing better than educating her customers in "the ways of the bra".
Attic Clothing - Ilkley
My list would not be complete without adding Attic Clothing based in Ilkley. Sarah has such a fantastic eye for fashion and carries a wide range of on trend brands, you really are spoilt for choice. Since starting the business back in 2007, Attic has really established itself as the "go to" shop to find wearable fashion, always offering a little something different.
Supporting independent shops like these will mean we keep the diversity in our high streets and kero someone else's dream alive. Although shops are closed, many are still selling online and with plenty of sale bargains to be had. Buying gift vouchers as presents also makes a big difference and if nothing else, just stopping by their websites for future reference is a good start.
