...this week it's bags!
As part of this blog we want to bring your attention to some of our favourite independent designers. Last week saw my love of Hetty Rose shoes taking the place of my holiday - this week I'm trying to think how to get my hands on an LMI handbag.
All girls (and some boys) love the happiness that comes from a bit of sparkle so, for the perfect pick me up bag, take a look at the collection from LMI Luxury by clicking here
Their range of Swarovski encrusted handbags includes a positively edible strawberry and watermelon, the childish fun of a panda and the more sophisticated range of gold and metallic pieces. But, whatever your personal taste they should be something in the collection that makes you smile (even with the prices starting at around £350).
If not, never fear, because you can customise the bags to make them completely your own - just pick your shape, design and colour and let them do the rest.
The downside - the only stockists in the UK appear to be in London - one in Glentworth Street and the other, well the other is the Wolf and Badger store featured on this blog earlier in the month and recommended by those in the know as THE place to find new design talent.
The upside - well, why not make the journey to the big smoke to buy your bag and then make a weekend out of it? After all you're going to want to show off your new purchase!
Friday, 26 February 2010
Wednesday, 24 February 2010
If you're not "eco friendly" or Fairtrade, you might be missing a trick.
Did you know that FairTrade Fortnight started at the beginning of this week?
No? Well, you might be missing a trick. According to The Sun newspaper many fashion retailers are launching special collections for the event. (Read the full article here)
Yes, many of them are the big high street names like Warehouse and Monsoon but that doesn't mean that independents aren't in on the act. In fact it would seem that independents are leading the way.
FairTrade pioneer People Tree have collaborated with Harry Potter's Emma Watson to launch a special collection this week but are known for their longstanding commitment to Fair Trade.
Other independent retailers, especially those online, seem to be popping up more and more often. For example both www.Hug.co.uk and www.responsiblygorgeous.co.uk are both committed to Eco friendly and ethical products. And, thankfully, they show that FairTrade and ethical clothing doesn't have to be ugly. Both sites have lovely ranges for men, women and children showcasing just how easy it is to make beautiful clothes without exploiting anyone.
And, in times of economic hardship and environmental pressures it's not a bad business to be in. With people being more careful about their purchases, choosing to decide where and when they shop not just on price but relationships and value, being able to offer them the opportunity to feel good about their clothes for a completely new reason can't be doing them any harm.
It seems it's fashionable to be Eco friendly but are you on trend?
No? Well, you might be missing a trick. According to The Sun newspaper many fashion retailers are launching special collections for the event. (Read the full article here)
Yes, many of them are the big high street names like Warehouse and Monsoon but that doesn't mean that independents aren't in on the act. In fact it would seem that independents are leading the way.
FairTrade pioneer People Tree have collaborated with Harry Potter's Emma Watson to launch a special collection this week but are known for their longstanding commitment to Fair Trade.
Other independent retailers, especially those online, seem to be popping up more and more often. For example both www.Hug.co.uk and www.responsiblygorgeous.co.uk are both committed to Eco friendly and ethical products. And, thankfully, they show that FairTrade and ethical clothing doesn't have to be ugly. Both sites have lovely ranges for men, women and children showcasing just how easy it is to make beautiful clothes without exploiting anyone.
And, in times of economic hardship and environmental pressures it's not a bad business to be in. With people being more careful about their purchases, choosing to decide where and when they shop not just on price but relationships and value, being able to offer them the opportunity to feel good about their clothes for a completely new reason can't be doing them any harm.
It seems it's fashionable to be Eco friendly but are you on trend?
Monday, 22 February 2010
A mine of information for independent retailers...
These days it's possible to find blogs about pretty much everything. However, sometimes the value of them is limited and sometimes the content is downright useless and unreliable.
But, just occasionally, you come across something that has the potential to be really useful. Today is one of those days, because today I finally came across the Business of Fashion Blog.
The blog appears to have quite a following but for those of you, like me, who have only just heard of it - here's what it's all about.
It was founded back in 2007 by Imran Amed, a fashion business advisor, writer and entrepreneur based in London and in the following years has become an essential resource for fashion creatives, business professionals and entrepreneurs across the world with its informative posts covering all aspects of the reality of being in the fashion business.
And that's the value in it - it doesn't just look at what's happening on the catwalks or which trend it hot right now - it really goes into the nitty gritty of running a business. Blog categories include a Daily Digest (a pick of relevant news stories from around the world), features on emerging designers, CEO talk which will be interesting to all those running their own businesses and obviously comment and analysis of the latest happenings.
Whether you decide to stick with it or not I would highly recommend a visit as I have a feeling it could become an invaluable source of not just information, but inspiration. Just go to www.businessofofashion.com and have a look around.
As far as our own blog goes, it is still in its infancy. We're not yet at the level of the Business of Fashion Blog but we do have a purpose and we do want to make it work. Our blog was created to become a place where independent retailers could come to share their views on what was happening in the industry and to help everyone involved, from manufacturers through to agents and retailers, learn how best to work together and support each other but it will only work with your input.
So, if you would like to get involved, why not start leaving a comment or two or, if you have something you really want to say - let us know and we'll see of we can sort out a guest post for you.
But, just occasionally, you come across something that has the potential to be really useful. Today is one of those days, because today I finally came across the Business of Fashion Blog.
The blog appears to have quite a following but for those of you, like me, who have only just heard of it - here's what it's all about.
It was founded back in 2007 by Imran Amed, a fashion business advisor, writer and entrepreneur based in London and in the following years has become an essential resource for fashion creatives, business professionals and entrepreneurs across the world with its informative posts covering all aspects of the reality of being in the fashion business.
And that's the value in it - it doesn't just look at what's happening on the catwalks or which trend it hot right now - it really goes into the nitty gritty of running a business. Blog categories include a Daily Digest (a pick of relevant news stories from around the world), features on emerging designers, CEO talk which will be interesting to all those running their own businesses and obviously comment and analysis of the latest happenings.
Whether you decide to stick with it or not I would highly recommend a visit as I have a feeling it could become an invaluable source of not just information, but inspiration. Just go to www.businessofofashion.com and have a look around.
As far as our own blog goes, it is still in its infancy. We're not yet at the level of the Business of Fashion Blog but we do have a purpose and we do want to make it work. Our blog was created to become a place where independent retailers could come to share their views on what was happening in the industry and to help everyone involved, from manufacturers through to agents and retailers, learn how best to work together and support each other but it will only work with your input.
So, if you would like to get involved, why not start leaving a comment or two or, if you have something you really want to say - let us know and we'll see of we can sort out a guest post for you.
Friday, 19 February 2010
All for the love of a shoe
Now I know that London Fashion Week starts today and for many that's what you'll be reading about. So, given there will already be hundreds of blogs and articles to read about the catwalks, the celebrities and the designers, I thought I'd do something slightly different but still London Fashion Week inspired.
You see, this morning I made a discovery. I think I'm a bit late to the party given she first exhibited at London Fashion week back in 2007 but I don't mind, I'm just glad I found her.
Hetty Rose makes some of the most beautiful shoes I have ever seen and, as an added bonus, she seems to agree with the idea that something unique and bespoke is the way forward.
Her collections are based on recycling vintage materials to create fantastic handmade shoes, each pair fitted to the wearer by the designer herself. A variety of vintage materials including recycled kimono fabrics add colour and beauty to whatever style of shoe you choose. In fact, they are so lovely I'm sure that if you are lucky enough to be able to afford a pair (prices go upwards from £350) they will not be just a pair of shoes but a treasured possession to be looked after, looked at and even passed down through families.
As you've probably guessed I'm a complete convert and am already debating whether I really need to go on holiday this year or whether the money would be better spent on a pair of shoes but if you're not yet convinced just visit her website and see for yourself - www.hettyrose.co.uk
You see, this morning I made a discovery. I think I'm a bit late to the party given she first exhibited at London Fashion week back in 2007 but I don't mind, I'm just glad I found her.
Hetty Rose makes some of the most beautiful shoes I have ever seen and, as an added bonus, she seems to agree with the idea that something unique and bespoke is the way forward.
Her collections are based on recycling vintage materials to create fantastic handmade shoes, each pair fitted to the wearer by the designer herself. A variety of vintage materials including recycled kimono fabrics add colour and beauty to whatever style of shoe you choose. In fact, they are so lovely I'm sure that if you are lucky enough to be able to afford a pair (prices go upwards from £350) they will not be just a pair of shoes but a treasured possession to be looked after, looked at and even passed down through families.
As you've probably guessed I'm a complete convert and am already debating whether I really need to go on holiday this year or whether the money would be better spent on a pair of shoes but if you're not yet convinced just visit her website and see for yourself - www.hettyrose.co.uk
Wednesday, 17 February 2010
How much thought have you put into your store design?
With the design of the 3.1 Phillip Lim flagship store being featured on this weeks Trend Insights blog it got me thinking... how much thought have you put into your store design?
From the pictures it seems the architecturally designed store is based on a striking minimalist design with a few pieces of clothing on rails around the edge of a huge floor space and angular display units placed within the open space.
Honestly, I think it looks great but I'm not sure I'd want to shop there but that doesn't necessarily make it wrong - I'm probably not their target customer. And that is the point to remember - the idea of good store design is to encourage your target audience to come in and shop in an environment that makes them comfortable.
Design should go further than simple point of sale displays. It encompasses elements such as heating and ventilation systems, lighting, music and product positioning, all of which should combine to reflect the brand you are trying to portray and the ethos behind your store.
If you compare some of the high street stores it is easy to see how store design differs. Primark if a bargain brand, they are selling based on price and quantity so their products are stacked on display,the racks are often jam packed. Not much attention is paid to presenting the products in their best light and, it has to be said, in the majority of their stores not much attention is paid to making the customers feel beautiful in the changing rooms either. However, that's not important as that's not what most Primark customers are after. They understand that for the price of the garments they will not be getting personal service or a garment that will last them years and they are willing to forgo those for the bargain top.
However if you look at a store like Abercrombie & Fitch who are slightly more upmarket and appeal to the a trendier, better off target market, their stores encompass interesting displays, personal customer service, funky music and flattering lighting - all in an effort to make sure the customer feels happy paying out a premium for a pair of jeans. Their stores reflect their branding perfectly and, while not to everyone's taste, certainly seem to be very effective.
And that ability to reflect the brand is where Independents can really differentiate themselves. They have the opportunity to chose their own look and train their staff in how they want to treat their customers but the recent recession has meant that many stores are pulling back on re-fits and re-designs due to the economic pressures but there are still ways of rejuvenating your store.
Last week Retail Week featured an article all about store design (read the full article here) which stated that although many had held back during 2009, 2010 seemed to be seeing a return in confidence and investment in store design.
The article said not to expect loads of new store formats as people are still trying to recover from 2009 but that 2010 will be all about graphics and 2D displays rather than 3D point of sale displays. Basically it's more about a makeover than major surgery.
And it doesn't have to be all about looks. It's important not to forget the benefits that can be reaped by revamping your customer service. As the trends for authenticity and personal service continue to grow ensuring that you and your staff are putting the customer first and making them feel valued could all add to the "feel" of your store and ensure return custom.
Do you have an innovative take on store design? Have you gone the extra mile for your customers?
We'd love to hear you stories and, if you are willing, to share them on the blog. If you're interested please leave a comment below and we'll be in touch.
From the pictures it seems the architecturally designed store is based on a striking minimalist design with a few pieces of clothing on rails around the edge of a huge floor space and angular display units placed within the open space.
Honestly, I think it looks great but I'm not sure I'd want to shop there but that doesn't necessarily make it wrong - I'm probably not their target customer. And that is the point to remember - the idea of good store design is to encourage your target audience to come in and shop in an environment that makes them comfortable.
Design should go further than simple point of sale displays. It encompasses elements such as heating and ventilation systems, lighting, music and product positioning, all of which should combine to reflect the brand you are trying to portray and the ethos behind your store.
If you compare some of the high street stores it is easy to see how store design differs. Primark if a bargain brand, they are selling based on price and quantity so their products are stacked on display,the racks are often jam packed. Not much attention is paid to presenting the products in their best light and, it has to be said, in the majority of their stores not much attention is paid to making the customers feel beautiful in the changing rooms either. However, that's not important as that's not what most Primark customers are after. They understand that for the price of the garments they will not be getting personal service or a garment that will last them years and they are willing to forgo those for the bargain top.
However if you look at a store like Abercrombie & Fitch who are slightly more upmarket and appeal to the a trendier, better off target market, their stores encompass interesting displays, personal customer service, funky music and flattering lighting - all in an effort to make sure the customer feels happy paying out a premium for a pair of jeans. Their stores reflect their branding perfectly and, while not to everyone's taste, certainly seem to be very effective.
And that ability to reflect the brand is where Independents can really differentiate themselves. They have the opportunity to chose their own look and train their staff in how they want to treat their customers but the recent recession has meant that many stores are pulling back on re-fits and re-designs due to the economic pressures but there are still ways of rejuvenating your store.
Last week Retail Week featured an article all about store design (read the full article here) which stated that although many had held back during 2009, 2010 seemed to be seeing a return in confidence and investment in store design.
The article said not to expect loads of new store formats as people are still trying to recover from 2009 but that 2010 will be all about graphics and 2D displays rather than 3D point of sale displays. Basically it's more about a makeover than major surgery.
And it doesn't have to be all about looks. It's important not to forget the benefits that can be reaped by revamping your customer service. As the trends for authenticity and personal service continue to grow ensuring that you and your staff are putting the customer first and making them feel valued could all add to the "feel" of your store and ensure return custom.
Do you have an innovative take on store design? Have you gone the extra mile for your customers?
We'd love to hear you stories and, if you are willing, to share them on the blog. If you're interested please leave a comment below and we'll be in touch.
Monday, 15 February 2010
Indies fighting back against crime wave
A reduction in sales was the obvious result of the latest recession and a huge worry for all independent retailers but it wasn't the only problem.
As the recession deepened it seems many people were resorting to extreme measures to make ends meet and the number of thefts and robberies from shops started to soar.
According to the British Retail Consortium the number of thefts from shops has risen by a third in just one year with incidents of violence or abuse of staff doubling but it seems many incidents are not reported with many smaller crimes such as minor shoplifting going unpunished.
Last year was the first time that the BRC assessed the proportion of crime not reported to the police and in the Retail Crime Survey 2009, published back in January, it estimated that two thirds of customer thefts (shoplifting) were not reported.
But what are retailers supposed to do to fight back against this latest crime wave? Well the BRC suggest that the police need to increase focus on tackling serious and organised crime against businesses, more effective engagement between police and local retailers so retailers are seen as key members in the community and actively involved in setting local crime priorities and including local retailers experiences of business crime in the local assessments and policing plans.
They are all good and valid ideas but remain fixed in policies and policing. If, as a retailer, you would like more immediate help then you will be glad to hear that the Government is stepping in.
On Saturday Drapers Online reported that independents are set to receive £5 million in grants as part of the Retail Crime Action Plan. Businesses were invited to apply for the funding last year and now the funds have been allocated to indies and groups of indies who have come together to fight crime in their area.
The grants can be used to buy security equipment such as alarms and security grills and the groups may use the money to help expand schemes like ShopWatch and provide retailers with radios so they are able to communicate with those around them.
It is unclear how many indies will benefit from this Scheme as the Home Office have declined to publish a list of those in receipt of a grant but do say that the scheme is aimed at those who need it most. Suffice to say it is, at least, a step in the right direction to help those who are suffering at the hand of shoplifters.
While the recession is no excuse for turning to crime we can only hope that as the recovery starts the incidents of crime, and especially violent crime, in shops starts to go back down.
Until then, stay safe.
To read the Drapers Online article click here
To read more about the BRC's Retail Crime Survey 2009 click here
To read more about the Government's Retail Crime Action Plan click here
As the recession deepened it seems many people were resorting to extreme measures to make ends meet and the number of thefts and robberies from shops started to soar.
According to the British Retail Consortium the number of thefts from shops has risen by a third in just one year with incidents of violence or abuse of staff doubling but it seems many incidents are not reported with many smaller crimes such as minor shoplifting going unpunished.
Last year was the first time that the BRC assessed the proportion of crime not reported to the police and in the Retail Crime Survey 2009, published back in January, it estimated that two thirds of customer thefts (shoplifting) were not reported.
But what are retailers supposed to do to fight back against this latest crime wave? Well the BRC suggest that the police need to increase focus on tackling serious and organised crime against businesses, more effective engagement between police and local retailers so retailers are seen as key members in the community and actively involved in setting local crime priorities and including local retailers experiences of business crime in the local assessments and policing plans.
They are all good and valid ideas but remain fixed in policies and policing. If, as a retailer, you would like more immediate help then you will be glad to hear that the Government is stepping in.
On Saturday Drapers Online reported that independents are set to receive £5 million in grants as part of the Retail Crime Action Plan. Businesses were invited to apply for the funding last year and now the funds have been allocated to indies and groups of indies who have come together to fight crime in their area.
The grants can be used to buy security equipment such as alarms and security grills and the groups may use the money to help expand schemes like ShopWatch and provide retailers with radios so they are able to communicate with those around them.
It is unclear how many indies will benefit from this Scheme as the Home Office have declined to publish a list of those in receipt of a grant but do say that the scheme is aimed at those who need it most. Suffice to say it is, at least, a step in the right direction to help those who are suffering at the hand of shoplifters.
While the recession is no excuse for turning to crime we can only hope that as the recovery starts the incidents of crime, and especially violent crime, in shops starts to go back down.
Until then, stay safe.
To read the Drapers Online article click here
To read more about the BRC's Retail Crime Survey 2009 click here
To read more about the Government's Retail Crime Action Plan click here
Friday, 12 February 2010
The sad loss of one of fashion's greats
I am not going to speculate about the circumstances or even pretend that I know enough about the fashion world to write a full and precise tribute but I feel it necessary to at least mark the passing of one of the greatest designers in modern times.
Alexander McQueen was hailed as an incredible talent with tremendous foresight. From his start on Savile Row to his more recent successes he always managed to produce something original, interesting and desirable.
For many his labels may have been unaffordable but they were very much loved with many trying to recreate the looks using pieces from the high street.
His foresight, originality and presence will, no doubt, be incredibly missed and leave an unfillable hole in British fashion.
Alexander McQueen was hailed as an incredible talent with tremendous foresight. From his start on Savile Row to his more recent successes he always managed to produce something original, interesting and desirable.
For many his labels may have been unaffordable but they were very much loved with many trying to recreate the looks using pieces from the high street.
His foresight, originality and presence will, no doubt, be incredibly missed and leave an unfillable hole in British fashion.
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
Spring Fair 2010
Someone once told me that if you went to every single day of the Spring Fair you still wouldn't manage to see everything.
Before yesterday I didn't believe them. Now, the ache in my legs and the catalogue of exhibitors and stands that I didn't even know where there have proved me wrong.
Yep, yesterday I ventured over to the NEC to visit Spring Fair 2010, billed as one of the worlds major retail buying events. It certainly lived up to the hype taking over the majority of the halls in the NEC with sections from Kitchen and Homeware to Floral, Festive and Fireworks.
While it was interesting to see Christmas trees and festive decorations in February I was more interested in the fashion accessories hall. There was a huge selection of jewellery suppliers ranging from precious metals to the more funky plastic and glass designs all the way through to novelty pieces but, I have to admit, I was slightly disappointed by the lack of variety as far as other accessories were concerned.
There were of course a selection of handbag and luggage stands but nothing that really jumped out at me. Hats, gloves and scarfs were around but again, nothing to write home about. And, as for belts, which of course were my main interest, there was very little.
Some stalls had belts as part of their collections but I could only find one stand that was really dedicated to the humble belt. Thankfully, it was quite a stand.
At the back of the display was what looked like a huge multicoloured wall built of perspex bricks. Upon closer inspection it became clear the the bricks were actually stacking display boxes and the colour was provided by the belts inside.
The stand belonged to Kaliber Marketing who were using the UK show as part of the launch for the "Tie Up" belt. A combination of plastic and rubber these Italian designed belts are fully recyclable, water proof, hypo allergenic and metal detector proof - so no waiting at airport security!
The "Tie Up" company was born out of a wish to show that even the fashion conscious can be Eco friendly and the belts have been a huge success in Europe. In fact, the company have now taken the Eco friendly basis of their product one step further by developing the "Bio-belt", a belt made out of fully biodegradable materials.
To find out more about the "Tie Up" belts and see what all the fuss is about visit Kaliber's website by clicking here
As for the rest of the show I would highly recommend a visit, especially if you have a home and gift section in your store. But, if it's fashion and accessories you're after I don't think it will be your one stop shop so keep your eyes out for more market focused shows such as Pure and Moda.
Before yesterday I didn't believe them. Now, the ache in my legs and the catalogue of exhibitors and stands that I didn't even know where there have proved me wrong.
Yep, yesterday I ventured over to the NEC to visit Spring Fair 2010, billed as one of the worlds major retail buying events. It certainly lived up to the hype taking over the majority of the halls in the NEC with sections from Kitchen and Homeware to Floral, Festive and Fireworks.
While it was interesting to see Christmas trees and festive decorations in February I was more interested in the fashion accessories hall. There was a huge selection of jewellery suppliers ranging from precious metals to the more funky plastic and glass designs all the way through to novelty pieces but, I have to admit, I was slightly disappointed by the lack of variety as far as other accessories were concerned.
There were of course a selection of handbag and luggage stands but nothing that really jumped out at me. Hats, gloves and scarfs were around but again, nothing to write home about. And, as for belts, which of course were my main interest, there was very little.
Some stalls had belts as part of their collections but I could only find one stand that was really dedicated to the humble belt. Thankfully, it was quite a stand.
At the back of the display was what looked like a huge multicoloured wall built of perspex bricks. Upon closer inspection it became clear the the bricks were actually stacking display boxes and the colour was provided by the belts inside.
The stand belonged to Kaliber Marketing who were using the UK show as part of the launch for the "Tie Up" belt. A combination of plastic and rubber these Italian designed belts are fully recyclable, water proof, hypo allergenic and metal detector proof - so no waiting at airport security!
The "Tie Up" company was born out of a wish to show that even the fashion conscious can be Eco friendly and the belts have been a huge success in Europe. In fact, the company have now taken the Eco friendly basis of their product one step further by developing the "Bio-belt", a belt made out of fully biodegradable materials.
To find out more about the "Tie Up" belts and see what all the fuss is about visit Kaliber's website by clicking here
As for the rest of the show I would highly recommend a visit, especially if you have a home and gift section in your store. But, if it's fashion and accessories you're after I don't think it will be your one stop shop so keep your eyes out for more market focused shows such as Pure and Moda.
Monday, 8 February 2010
Carnaby Street hits the big 50!
It was back in the sixties when Carnaby Street really came to the attention of the fashion crowd. The eclectic mix of fashion, music and design made it an iconic destination and, I'm pleased to say, the same is true 50 years on.
Not only does Carnaby Street remain a "must visit" destination but it remains true to its roots. At a time when massive chain stores seem to have taken over the biggest and best destinations and sky high rents mean new stores don't have a chance, Carnaby Street remains mostly unique with at least 65% of the current stores in the area being independent.
To celebrate it's big birthday Carnaby Street will be hosting a number of events throughout the year starting on the 26th February with an exhibition and book launch covering the last 50 years.
The highlight of the event is set to be a unique 3D timeline illustrating key people events and happenings in the area. The exhibition will carry on through February and March into early April and is completely FREE!
If you would like to find out more about Carnaby Street and any of this years birthday events please visit www.carnaby.co.uk
Not only does Carnaby Street remain a "must visit" destination but it remains true to its roots. At a time when massive chain stores seem to have taken over the biggest and best destinations and sky high rents mean new stores don't have a chance, Carnaby Street remains mostly unique with at least 65% of the current stores in the area being independent.
To celebrate it's big birthday Carnaby Street will be hosting a number of events throughout the year starting on the 26th February with an exhibition and book launch covering the last 50 years.
The highlight of the event is set to be a unique 3D timeline illustrating key people events and happenings in the area. The exhibition will carry on through February and March into early April and is completely FREE!
If you would like to find out more about Carnaby Street and any of this years birthday events please visit www.carnaby.co.uk
Friday, 5 February 2010
Even the functional can be beautiful
There are some things that we use everyday and completely take for granted. However, others see the potential for beauty and uniqueness and Paul Cox is just one of those people.
Paul Cox Industries is based in Brooklyn, New York and is a custom motorcycle and fabrication shop but it's just one detail of the bikes that caught my eye - the seats. Now I know it's not high fashion but it is to do with the functionality and adaptability of leather, something we at George Stuart are always interested in.
Made from the highest quality leather and each one crafted by hand, Paul Cox makes custom made leather seats for use on motorbikes. Designs vary widely in colour, intricacy and shape but they are all amazing.
So if bikes are your thing, or even if you just appreciate something totally unique, take a look at his work by clicking here
Paul Cox Industries is based in Brooklyn, New York and is a custom motorcycle and fabrication shop but it's just one detail of the bikes that caught my eye - the seats. Now I know it's not high fashion but it is to do with the functionality and adaptability of leather, something we at George Stuart are always interested in.
Made from the highest quality leather and each one crafted by hand, Paul Cox makes custom made leather seats for use on motorbikes. Designs vary widely in colour, intricacy and shape but they are all amazing.
So if bikes are your thing, or even if you just appreciate something totally unique, take a look at his work by clicking here
Wednesday, 3 February 2010
Times, they are a changing
Topshop has ruled the roost for a good few years now but it seems times, they are a changing.
Yesterday the Guardian's fashion editor, Jess Cartner-Morley, published a letter to Topshop explaining that they were no longer her first choice of store for that ultimate fashion fix and that she had found new love with their competitors including New Look and River Island. (Read the full article here)
Admittedly it's not a mass exodus of customers moving from Topshop into the Independents but at least they're starting to look beyond the obvious so it's a start!
Yesterday the Guardian's fashion editor, Jess Cartner-Morley, published a letter to Topshop explaining that they were no longer her first choice of store for that ultimate fashion fix and that she had found new love with their competitors including New Look and River Island. (Read the full article here)
Admittedly it's not a mass exodus of customers moving from Topshop into the Independents but at least they're starting to look beyond the obvious so it's a start!
Monday, 1 February 2010
Results of the last poll and the introduction of a new one
Well, it seems that overall, the independent sector had an "OK" Christmas with the majority of people in our poll reporting a similar period to last year.
While it's good to hear that some of you are doing well, and others are managing to keep their heads above water, there are even more who are really struggling to survive. And, with reports of sales dropping at their fastest since last summer it looks like this year might be just as difficult as last year.
Trying to find ways of increasing sales and reducing costs are bound to be on many peoples minds and the Internet is often banded about as a sure fire solution. After all, we in the UK have been reported as the biggest online spenders accounting for almost a third of all of European sales according to a BBC report out today.
But, as we've discussed on this blog before, while sales may be up it doesn't necessarily include sales from independent fashion retailers. The experience and service may not transfer into a online environment and the reports don't explain which sectors appear to benefiting most from the huge amount of sales. So, we thought we'd ask you.
In our new poll we want to find out how important online trading is to you. Are you an online retailer who relies on Internet sales, do you have a both a physical store and an online trading site or do you not bother with the Internet at all? We want to know how important the Internet is to your business so please complete the poll on the right by the end of February.
As ever we'll be sharing our results with you so the more of you who take part the more useful the information will be!
Thanks for your time.
While it's good to hear that some of you are doing well, and others are managing to keep their heads above water, there are even more who are really struggling to survive. And, with reports of sales dropping at their fastest since last summer it looks like this year might be just as difficult as last year.
Trying to find ways of increasing sales and reducing costs are bound to be on many peoples minds and the Internet is often banded about as a sure fire solution. After all, we in the UK have been reported as the biggest online spenders accounting for almost a third of all of European sales according to a BBC report out today.
But, as we've discussed on this blog before, while sales may be up it doesn't necessarily include sales from independent fashion retailers. The experience and service may not transfer into a online environment and the reports don't explain which sectors appear to benefiting most from the huge amount of sales. So, we thought we'd ask you.
In our new poll we want to find out how important online trading is to you. Are you an online retailer who relies on Internet sales, do you have a both a physical store and an online trading site or do you not bother with the Internet at all? We want to know how important the Internet is to your business so please complete the poll on the right by the end of February.
As ever we'll be sharing our results with you so the more of you who take part the more useful the information will be!
Thanks for your time.
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