Hooting Miss Owl: 04/01/2011

30 April 2011

Twit twoo, twit twoo!!!

I am very proud to say that Vintage Owl Boutique is 1 year old today! One whirlwind year on and we have created our own online shop and have also been doing the circuits of vintage fairs around Brighton and Sussex. We have executed 2 highly successful photo-shoots and have featured in several publications, online and in print.

There are so many people that we need to thank for their continued support over the last 12 months. Our families; Molly, Felix, Pete, Alex, Mums, Dads, Sisters and Brothers. Our many friends; J & Jo, Katie & Carlo, Emer Gillespie, Beth Steddon, Kate Forester, Michelle Cooke, Tanja Stocklin, Panwad Maneetapho, Dave Pop & Jeremy, Gemma Wheatcroft, Choccywoccydoodah, Vintage Brighton, Roses All Over, Frock Me, The Vintage Fair, Jenny & Paul Banham and everyone else that's been there along the way - You Know Who You Are!! The past year would have been impossible to curate, organize and deal with were it not for your love and belief in what we're doing.

I am so excited about where we could be by this time next year. Vintage Owl is evolving for the better. We will be embracing and expanding our homemade-handmade section and you will be able to witness some of this new collection at AOH Artists Open House in the month of May (watch this space for more info on that). Cassie is designing a new made-to-measure collection for those who like the vintage look but not the vintage sizes and has also started an alterations service (call 07876128884 for more details or even just come and see us at one of our fairs).

We hope you have enjoyed the journey so far as much as we have. Thank you, for following us.

Much love and best wishes,

Jennie and Cassie.

Photo courtesy of Beth Steddon of Garage Studios.

Models - Michelle Cooke, Tanja Stocklin and Panwad Maneetapho
Stylists - Jennie Davies and Cassie Heighton

Make-up Artist - Gemma Wheatcroft

Hair - Alex Graham of Ciscos Karma

Cake courtesy of Choccywoccydoodah

Vintage china courtesy of Roses All Over

1 April 2011

There are three ladies who share a secret. And if you’re lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time, or if you know the right people, they might just share it with you. Sneaking from place to place spreading the vintage and nearly new gospel, Secret Store is operated by JH, FW and HW. Three friends with an eye for fashion, a stash of quality stock and collectively, a gazillion tons of fashion knowledge.

For the past few years, they’ve been quietly masterminding a revolution in home shopping and styling. Vintage Owl caught up with these mysterious entrepreneurs after their most recent operation at an undisclosed location in old Bright Town.

Well, Hove. Actually . . .

VO: What is Secret Store?

SS: Secret Store is currently an invite only event selling high end, high street womens clothing, like Jigsaw and Whistles as well as independent designers and vintage. We provide a space for women where they can have the shopping experience, enjoy a drink with friends and get beautiful well-priced clothes and accessories.

VO: How did it start?

SS: We met when we were working for Jigsaw. After several years of accumulating lots of clothes we started small evening sales for potential clients, family and friends. Five years on, Secret Store has grown and grown with the help of word of mouth.

VO: Do you think people are becoming more eco-conscious when they are shopping?

SS: Yes, definitely! People are aware of how much money they are spending. In our case, they like to spend their money in a place where they can buy high quality in a nice environment.

VO: What else does Secret Store offer?

SS: All three of us also offer personal shopping and styling on a one to one basis. We also source items on a request basis so our guests can make up a wish list and we’ll find what they’re looking for.

VO: What will be Secret Store’s next step?

SS: Next step is a vintage emporium. It wouldn’t be secret though, we’d tell you where it is! We’re currently looking to set up shop in several locations around Brighton and Sussex. Watch this space!

VO: Would you continue the Secret Store home shopping events?

SS: Oh, of course. But don’t tell anyone!

VO: When is the next event?

SS: It will be in May, at a secret location somewhere in Haslemere! And then a high summer event back in Brighton.

VO: How can people find out about upcoming events?

SS: Well, if you know someone who knows someone, you might hear about us through word of mouth. Or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

VO: What garments are you currently coveting?

SS: I don’t particularly covet garments, but more looks. I currently love all of YSL spring summer collection. I love the 70s look, high waist flares, high wedges. Mr Jacobs new collection – all those polka dots...I could go on...and on..!

VO: What’s your top tip for buying vintage?

SS: Search everywhere! You never know what will turn up. Where possible always try on, it is easier to see if there is anything wrong or any marks. Turn inside out and look at how it is sewn and finished, a good indication of quality. However, don’t dismiss if a little shabby as could be a homemade or a sample and therefore a one off!

Currently look out for 30s style dresses – so next season.