City Stylin' #29

I’m currently in the process of setting up an online retail site of vintage and pre-loved treasures and unique pieces for women that know what they want and go out and get it. It’s for when you know your style and are looking for unique pieces to add to your wardrobe. Sustainability is at the heart of it, which kind of reflects what I’m wearing today, which is thrifted. It might end up in the shop at some point, but for now I’m wearing it.

I did Nottingham Fashion Week in 2016 with something I was selling on Etsy and Depop, and I realised I could make it a proper business. I’m going to sell designer pieces as well as unique, thrifted pieces. I’ve really had to put my serious business head on. You usually find gems when you’re least expecting it. I’ll walk past two or three charity shops, but sometimes I get a calling telling me to go in. When that happens, I have to go in and see. Usually there’s at least one great piece, like this rusty, caramel biscuit-coloured leather jacket I saw a couple of weeks ago. That charity shop wanted me to go in! 

 I’m dressed quite sporty today but, for me, most everyday things feel like a sport. I used to be a dance teacher, but I had to diversify my skills after getting ill about twelve years ago. I’ve slowly been clawing back some kind of existence, and I feel that selling thrift clothing is starting to do that. The act of coming into town to do a food shop now feels like a sport. I love surfing and skateboarding, but I can’t do them very often anymore. It’s hard in Nottingham, especially as an older woman, because I feel a bit self-conscious. Although today I treated myself to my first VR experience in the Victoria Centre. Even fifteen minutes of that was quite a challenge, but this was definitely the perfect thing to wear. It’s comfortable and warm, but I feel ready for action. Madi