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23
Oct
Harrogate vintage fashion boutique to close
A vintage fashion boutique in Harrogate is set to close after 15 years.
Catherine Smith Vintage has become something of an institution in the town, selling an eclectic mix of high-end vintage pieces and modern designer items.
Ms Smith told the Stray Ferret the shop will close because she intends to semi-retire. She added the business will continue to trade online.
The last day of trading in the shop will be December 21, and the online shop will be fully operational in January.
She said:
It is a lifestyle decision, there is a break clause in the lease, and I have decided to go online. It felt like the right time and I'm at the right age.
The business is still incredibly successful, but I have always been a one-woman band, and it is incredibly difficult to have a commitment to both the website and a bricks and mortar store.
I am ready for a change, but it won’t stop my passion for fashion.
Ms Smith added she will enjoy more leisure activities and go travelling when the shop closes.
The shop stocks items ranging from handpicked, rare vintage pieces such as Ossie Clark and Biba to modern favourites such as Gucci and Prada.
Its clothing, accessories and jewellery will be listed on the existing website from the new year.
Ms Smith said she will work until the last day to clear the shop but there won’t be a sale because “there is no need to clear stock as vintage pieces only get more vintage".
Catherine Smith Vintage
She said that the unit has received a lot of interest since the 'to let' sign went up and she hopes that another independent business will open in the space.
She added that she has “loved every moment of being on such a great road".
Ms Smith began her journey with vintage fashion when she gave up a career as an accountant and began volunteering in an Oxfam charity shop.
While working for Oxfam, she developed a keen interest in vintage fashion and began selling vintage pieces at markets.
She later sought out a shop in Harrogate due to its status as a shopping destination, and 15 years later the shop has become a fashion destination.
She added that vintage fashion seems to be “going from strength to strength but the time is right to make the difficult decision to move online".
She said:
I have built up lots of loyal customers and I am sad to be leaving such a vibrant street with a community feel.
Please continue to follow me on social media and keep tuned in to see what new items will be on the website after the new year.
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