If last year was about survival, 2026 will hopefully bring retail recovery. There are early signs of pressure easing on shoppers’ pockets as inflation falls and interest rates begin to come down. But for most independents, trading still feels fragile – and no one is expecting an easy ride this year.
Recent figures show the festive period failed to deliver the boost many retailers had hoped for. December sales were flat across most categories, with fashion taking one of the hardest hits as shoppers continued to rein in spending.
The high street has also lost more brilliant independents. Sustainable East London boutiques Aida Shoreditch and 69b Boutique both confirmed permanent closures at the start of the year – a reminder of how difficult trading is at present, even for well-loved independents.
January then is a good opportunity to take stock. Depth, forecasting and margin should be at the top of the buying agenda for every retailer. Shoppers are becoming more considered and spending less often, which puts well-edited, well-run boutiques in pole position.
Retail expert Clare Bailey believes getting the fundamentals right has never been more important. From page 87, she explains why a forensic review of AW25 sales is critical as we move into the new buying season – with smarter product sourcing, selling with confidence and protecting margins remaining imperative.
If you’re still deciding where to hunt out this year’s bestsellers, you’re in the right place. This issue also includes a first look at the latest new collection drops, must-visit trade shows, brands and stands to see at Harrogate Fashion Week plus some dates for your diary – all geared towards helping you build stronger, more profitable ranges (starting from page 37).
Finally, we also speak to indie owners around the country about how they are approaching the year ahead. From curating the perfect edits to investing in staff wellbeing and development, find out where fellow retailers are choosing to place their priorities in 2026, from page 93
Gemma Ward, Editor
www.godske.com/g-en/trade-shows
OUTSTANDING BUSINESS 2025
Lily & Me’s AW26 collection draws inspiration from the creative spaces where art and nature meet.
“From the Studio” celebrates the tactile world of craft and creativity that lies at the core of our brand. Relaxed tailoring, layered textures, mood-enhancing colour stories and heritage influences shape the season. Showing at INDX 25th-27th January and Harrogate 1st-3rd February.
IRELAND
IRELAND
IRELAND
Ella Boo Limited, Unit 08, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24, D24 EW2P
IRELAND
Ella Boo Limited, Unit 08, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24, D24 EW2P
Ella Boo Limited, Unit 08, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24, D24 EW2P
Contact June +35386 7915740
Contact June
Contact June +35386 7915740
+35386 7915740
Ella Boo Limited, Unit 08, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24, D24 EW2P
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SUCCESS FUELS OPTIMISM AMONG INDIE RETAILERS FOR 2026
Independent retailers have begun the new year with renewed but cautious optimism, supported by the latest figures from Small Business Saturday.
Millions of consumers chose to shop small during the annual campaign in December, spending an average of £63 each – the highest figure recorded in five years.
In a poll of 4,000 UK shoppers, two thirds (66 per cent) said they will continue to do so throughout the year because of the positive impact shopping small has on their local communities.
Among those surveyed, the most common reasons for buying from small firms included wanting to support local business owners (46 per cent), a personal commitment to visiting independently owned shops and firms (39 per cent) and an awareness that the past year has been particularly challenging for small businesses (32 per cent).
Elsewhere, the campaign’s research also highlights how some shoppers plan to increase their support for independents over the coming months, with 40 per cent intending to visit local businesses more frequently. Others say they frequently recommend their favourite small retailers to friends and family (29 per cent) and leave positive online reviews (17 per cent).
The latest Small Business Saturday also received backing from The Royal Family, who shared a message of thanks to small firms involved in the Buckingham Palace Reservicing Programme in a video posted on social media. The government also marked the occasion, bringing a market-style showcase to the No 10 Christmas light switch-on celebrations.
Meanwhile, senior national figures, public offices and organisations shared further support over the campaign’s weekend, emphasising widespread recognition of its importance.
Director Michelle Ovens says the response from shoppers underlines the vital role independents play in the UK: “Small firms hold a special place in the hearts of the British public,” she says. “It is now vital that we carry this wave of support forward for the rest of the year and get behind these amazing small businesses so they can keep doing what they do best – powering our economy and enriching our lives and local communities.”
Now in its thirteenth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday has helped to generate billions of pounds for small firms, while encouraging consumers to support local indies both at Christmas and throughout the year.
INDUSTRY UPDATE
ESSENTIAL NEWS FOR FASHION INDIES
SUSTAINABLE CONCEPT STORE AIDA SHOREDITCH TO CLOSE AFTER 14 YEARS’ TRADING
Aida Shoreditch has confirmed it will close its doors permanently this month, ending 14 years’ trading as one of London’s best-known sustainable concept stores.
The family-run independent, which has traded on Shoreditch High Street since 2012, shared the news with its 20,000 Instagram followers earlier this month.
“After much reflection – and no small amount of heartache – we’ve made the difficult decision to close our beloved family store,” it said.
INDIES TO BENEFIT FROM £2M ENERGY FUNDING
Independent retailers are set to benefit from a new £2 million government funding pot designed to support sustainability investment and cut operating costs. Delivered by the Made Smarter Adoption Programme, the funding will help SMEs invest in energy-efficient technologies such as heating upgrades, insulation improvements and solar power. The scheme forms part of the government’s response to the Willow Review, which found 67 per cent of SMEs that had adopted sustainability measures reported reduced operating costs. Eligible retailers can register interest online via madesmarter.uk to access match-funded grants, advisory support and training.
“It’s been an incredible 14-year journey, filled with unforgettable highs, challenging lows and countless moments we will treasure forever.”
Founded by sisters Helena, Michele, Kris and Daniella Chow, the three-storey Shoreditch boutique built a loyal following for its considered edit of independent labels long before sustainable fashion became mainstream. Its womenswear, menswear and homewares offer included brands such as Rains, Alohas, HVISK, Calm London, Howlin’, Collective Canvas,
SOCIAL SELLING SURGES OVER BLACK FRIDAY
Purchases made via Instagram, TikTok and Facebook more than doubled year on year over the Black Friday sales period, as shoppers increasingly completed purchases directly within social media platforms. New data from commerce solutions provider Rithum shows a 152 per cent increase in global social channel sales on Black Friday, with figures up 140 per cent on Thanksgiving. In the UK, MRI data reveals e-commerce sales rose 27 per cent year on year during the same period, while retail footfall fell 2 per
Rita Row and The Tiny Big Sister. Aida’s website is set to cease trading on Friday 16 January, with discounts of up to 80 per cent currently available online and in-store as part of its closing-down sale.
“Shoppers are now completing the entire journey in their feeds”
cent, as social platforms increasingly shift from discovery tools to full checkout destinations. Clothing, shoes and accessories emerged as the strongest-performing category, with Rithum chief executive Lou Keyes adding: “Shoppers aren’t just discovering products in their feeds anymore - they’re completing the entire journey there.”
FASHION SITES AMONG LEAST ACCESSIBLE FOR DISABLED SHOPPERS
Fashion retail websites are among the least accessible for disabled users in the UK, with 64 per cent requiring improvements to meet disabled user needs in 2026, reveals new research. Common barriers include poor colour contrast, small font sizes and unclear navigation,
which can prevent customers from completing purchases. The findings come from the State of Accessibility Report by brand communications agency Warbox, which analysed Google Accessibility Scores for more than 1,200 UK websites across 14 sectors.
INDIE SHOP NEWS
END OF AN ERA
69b Boutique has announced it will permanently close next month after selling sustainable fashion on Hackney’s Broadway Market for the last 15 years.
TOP SCORE
Indie marketplace Wolf and Badger, founded by brothers Henry and George Graham, has increased its B Corp score by 34 per cent since achieving certification in 2021.
Lark London to open new store in Wandsworth Common
Indie group Lark London is set to add another bricks-and-mortar location to its portfolio with a new opening in Wandsworth Common. Owned by husband-and-wife team Priya Aurora-Crowe and Dominic Crowe, the family-run lifestyle retailer opened its first shop in Balham in 2001 and added its
EXPANSION PLAN
Independent fashion retailer Lanigan & Hulme has opened its second store in Sale, Manchester, following the success of its original Knutsfordbased boutique.
INDUSTRY SALES FIGURES NOVEMBER 2025 (VS NOVEMBER 2024) +0.67% PROFIT MARGIN
+0.64%
twentieth store in London’s Acton last year. The group now operates a network of stores across London and Surrey, stocking gifts, homewares and clothing. While e-commerce remains part of the business, Lark’s website accounts for around 5 per cent of turnover, reflecting the indie's focus on physical retail.
DECEMBER FASHION SALES WEAK AS CHRISTMAS FAILS TO BOOST RETAIL SPEND
December delivered the weakest set of monthly retail sales figures since November 2024, according to the latest BDO High Street Sales Tracker, as Christmas trading failed to deliver a muchneeded uplift.
Total like-for-like retail sales fell by 1.4 per cent year on year, reversing the 7.7 per cent growth recorded in December 2024. High street stores saw sales dip by 0.5 per cent, while online sales slipped by 0.6 per cent, with volumes down across both channels.
Fashion proved particularly subdued. Total like-for-like sales fell by 2.3 per cent in December, down from growth of 8.8 per cent a year earlier. In-store fashion sales also moved into negative territory, easing back by 0.2 per cent from growth of 1.5 per cent in December 2024. Weekly data shows fashion sales were negative in all but the third week of December, when growth remained limited at 0.37 per cent. Non-store fashion sales were positive in the first and third weeks of the month but suffered sharper declines in the remaining weeks.
These figures represent findings from a cross section of independent online and bricks-and-mortar retailers around the UK. Total stock management and EPoS provider Top to Toe has compiled this industry index to offer Boutique readers an insight into what’s happening on the high street and online. Tel: 0203 376 5888 E: info@toptotoe.com Toptotoe.com
Sophie Michael, head of retail and wholesale at BDO, says hopes of a Christmas rebound failed to materialise as persistent food inflation and high living costs continued to weigh on discretionary spending, leaving retailers under growing pressure as they enter 2026.
FREEDOM MOVEMENT
Created as an ode to everyday women, new athleisure label Kerlora designs high-quality easy-wear essentials with a focus on lasting shape and fit. Each piece is tested on real bodies and crafted from premium materials in flattering shades for workouts and everything in-between. £POA; Tel: 07414 884 396 E: hello@kerlora.com
GREEN WITH ENVY
Handmade in Spain and Italy using soft grainy-print calf leather, Lalage Beaumont’s Maya Midi Caribou bag is an investment buy that will transcend seasons and generations. £POA;
E: catkin@lalagebeaumont.com
Lovesboutique
SHAPE UP
In an oceanic blue wash with a flattering barrel shape, Samsøe Samsøe’s Saveyra jeans are tipped to be a bestseller when they land in stores this spring. £POA; E: vitus@samsoe.com
FASHION FINDS WE’RE FALLING FOR THIS SEASON
BRIGHT IDEA
Perfect for cool spring days, Joe Brown’s easy-care button-down cardigan will add a splash of colour to rails this SS26. £POA; E: wholesale@joebrowns.co.uk
YOUNG AT HEART
Designed in London and handmade in Jaipur, demi-fine jewellery brand APRÈS YOUTH crafts its fashion-led pieces in 100 per cent recycled sterling silver, high-quality 22-carat gold vermeil plating and ethically sourced gems. £POA; E: emily@apresyouth.com
Intimateessentials
NEW LINGERIE, SWIM AND RESORTWEAR TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT BUY
ON THE ROCKS
Crafted to the highest standards using premium recycled fabrics, Livia Betancort’s printed balconette onepiece frames the body with sculpted red panelling and conscious details. Perfect for pool-side lounging or a dip in the sea. £POA; liviabetancort.com
MODERN CLASSICS
Known for its expertly engineered essentials crafted in premium fabrics, Schiesser's iconic Revival line reimagines archival classics with contemporary cuts and meticulous detailing, creating a durable everyday foundation for modern wardrobes. £POA; E: angela.blundell@concreteconcept.org/ david@apm-agency.com
NEW RADICAL
PRINTS CHARMING
Blending ultra-soft fabrics, relaxed silhouettes and statement prints, PJ Salvage’s modern lounge and sleepwear delivers comfort with personality. Expect whimsical seasonal motifs and playful signature patterns that bring a strong point of interest in-store.
Lingerie and fashion collide in Noblesse Oblige’s AW26 collection. Expect rebellious, radical designs in daring mesh, velvet and Solstiss lace alongside a polka dot motif reimagined as urban armour. Elsewhere, rompers, camisoles and French knickers lead its NOS edit, offering a seasonless foundation for any lingerie wardrobe. Available in sizes up to 4XL and 38GG; E: angela.blundell@concrete-concept.org
Designed in Denmark, CCDK Copenhagen creates pared-back luxury loungewear using sustainably approved fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo and EcoVero viscose. Its feminine and flattering pieces are made to be seen, merging relaxed silhouettes and premium finishing. £POA; E: angela.blundell@concrete-concept.org/ david@apm-agency.com
ALL WEATHERS
Made in France using sustainable virgin wool, Saint James’ authentic Voulire peacoat is a classic winter staple. Its design is based on the heritage brand’s original doublebreasted sailor jackets, reimagined for modern wardrobes. £POA; Tel: 07539 228 041
E: marc@doublehagency.com doublehagency.com
POWER PIECE
Landing in stores this month, ATP Atelier’s Scarlino bag is crafted from doubled-faced grained calf leather to bring understated elegance to any occasion. £POA; E: sales@atpatelier.com
THIS MONTH’S STANDOUT WOMENSWEAR AND ACCESSORIES
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Royal Warrant holder Leathersmith of London crafts hand-bound diaries, notebooks and calendars on Canvey Island in Essex, finishing each piece to an exceptionally high standard. £POA; E: jenny.warner@ leathersmith.co.uk leathersmith.co.uk
STRONG PERFORMANCE
Girlfriend Collective transforms recycled ocean waste into highperformance activewear. Expect soft, supportive garments designed for everyday movement - whether working out or running errands. Available in sizes XXS–6X; £POA; Tel: 07887 730 754/ 07825 091 369 E: angela.blundell@concrete-concept.org
FOR ALL ETERNITY
With a revolutionary customisable design that can be worn in 22 different ways, Samantha Siu’s Eternity Earrings redefine the meaning of wear-forever sustainable luxury. £POA; E: info@samanthasiu.com
Showing at: Harrogate Fashion Week
1st - 3rd February 2026
Stand A25
Index Woman Show
25th - 27th Jan 2026
stand P410 & P480
Eco chic
SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS AND BRANDS
BIG FINISH
Perfect for making an impact with minimum effort, Pilgrim’s recycled silver Sparkle earrings will bring a sleek and polished Scandi aesthetic to outfits this SS26. £POA; Tel: 00456 333 333 E: b2b@pilgrim.dk
GIRL POWER
British womenswear brand House of Kind supports femaleempowering causes such as 50:50 Parliament while championing women in business. Its boardroomfriendly capsule includes the signature TrailBLAZER jacket and She Wears the Trousers, each finished with luxe details such as logo-engraved buttons and bespoke lining. £POA; Tel: 07983 699 507
E: sonica@houseofkind.london
SALT OF THE EARTH
Partnering with a Mongolian manufacturer with a similar ethos as its original Yorkshire-based mill, British brand Salts produces exceptional quality cashmere with a fully transparent supply chain. £POA; E: martin@pdstailoring.com
BRITISH SUMMERTIME
COLD COMFORT
Designed to go with everything, Scamp and Dude’s ribbed-knit neon pink beanie features a cosy one-size fit and the brand’s signature lightning bolt embroidery. £POA; Tel: 02045 669 722 scampanddude.com
A versatile piece for both sunny daytimes and special occasions, Lily and Me’s Ceres bloom print St Ives Skirt is responsibly made using a sustainable linen and EcoTang viscose blend. The British label designs its collections inhouse and manufactures at its own factory in Nepal, supporting transparent and ethical production for conscious retailers. From £5-30; Tel: 01452 207 766 lilyandmeclothing.com
F A S HI O N’ S N E W E R A
Explore emerging designers alongside heritage brands. Live runway moments. Immersive environments where discovery is inevitable.
This is where your next collection begins.
Join us
Stock Up
New season picks
FRESH COLLECTIONS TO ENHANCE YOUR AW26 FASHION EDIT
ORIENTIQUE
Made for modern women seeking unique fashion, Australian label Orientique specialises in exclusive digital hand-drawn and painted prints. For AW26, its collection leads with responsible fabrics such as sustainable rayon and organic cotton, taking shoppers on a journey around the world with traditional craftsmanship, embroideries and diverse print techniques. From intricate Indian block prints to African tribal symbols, each piece tells a story of diverse culture and ancient tradition. Choose from vibrant digital print needle cord shirt dresses, reversible puffer coats and organic cotton winter tees and tunics in prints and plain colourways all offered for commercial price points. Available in sizes 8-24; wholesale prices range from £14 - £53 per piece while the minimum order requirement is £1,500.
SHOWING AT: Harrogate Fashion Week (stand: M28), Carol C Collections showroom in London and Leeds plus regional UK agents (contact brand directly for details).
Representing five international brands this season, Sally Dawes Agency’s AW26 roster includes luxurious knitwear and two new-to-theUK collections. Buyers can select pieces from its best-selling Estheme Cashmere label, offering exceptional quality knitwear for competitive price points, as well as 100 per cent merinos from sister brand Maud and Sacha. Elsewhere, quiet luxury label Rialto48 is back with its trademark designs that are cleverly elevated with unexpected details. Finally, new unmissable brands for the season include Denmark’s Philosophy Blues Original offering a cool, classic aesthetic and Camilla Ohrling Jewellery's competitively priced high-end pieces in 18K triple gold plate.
SHOWING AT: Sally Dawes Agency, Royal Society of Medicine, 1 Wimpole Street, London, W1G 0AE (2 – 19 February).
British luxury womenswear label Lenie Boya creates sophisticated and feminine fashion for modern women. The brand merges classic elegance with a modern twist, creating designs that are confident, comfortable and elegant. Made to last generations, its design signature includes architectural structure, innovative cuts, threedimensional fabric manipulation, exceptional quality, attention to detail and tailored precision. This season sees the introduction of its first prêt-à-porter collection, available throughout the year, featuring seasonless mix and match separates with interchangeable linings that can be worn in a number of ways. Hero pieces include structured lace and tuxedo waistcoats alongside coordinating wide leg trousers made from black corded patterned lace. Wholesale prices are £87 per piece on average while there is no minimum order requirement
SHOWING AT: Harrogate Fashion Week (stand C29).
CONTACT: Tel: 07900 624 217
E: lenie@lenieboya.com
FOIL
Created in New Zealand, Foil’s wearable and stylish womenswear is influenced by trends from around the world. The label is known for its natural fabrics, standout finishing touches, attention to detail and outstanding quality –helping boutiques differentiate their offer from the high street. For AW26, its collection – Natural Expression – celebrates nature and newness. Expect earthy textures, decorative designs and cosy yarns with 3D forms. Timeless classics are updated with new silhouettes and fabrics, creating a versatile range made to garner attention. There’s also a standout knitwear collection this season, offering machine washable pure merino wool at highly commercial price points. Elsewhere, standouts include stretch cotton shirting in flattering shapes alongside cosy teddy coats and jackets. Wholesale prices range from £15 for tees, £25 for knitwear and £49 for outerwear while the minimum order requirement is £1,500.
SHOWING AT: Harrogate Fashion Week (stand: M28), Carol C Collections showroom in London and Leeds plus regional UK agents (contact brand directly for details).
French heritage brand Saint James has been producing traditional maritime essentials since 1889. Founded in Normandy to supply Breton fishermen with weather-resistant garments, its iconic striped jerseys, sailor knits and peacoats are now global wardrobe staples renowned for their craftsmanship and timeless appeal. For AW26, the brand’s design team draws inspiration from the natural rhythm of the planet, using soft and calming earth-like tones to create a mindful and considered newseason wardrobe. Merging heritage with modernity, expect classic silhouettes updated with relaxed structures, subtle colour refreshes and a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Heroes include the boiled wool Jura gilet designed for layering, the classic wear-forever Voulire peacoat and the Mare II French sailor sweater reimagined for the season in soft, lightweight wool.
US-born brand Bedhead Pyjamas produces exceptionally crafted sleepwear featuring whimsical details and hand-drawn prints. Created by artists in New York and Los Angeles, its range spans everything from florals and stripes to holiday scenes and farflung destinations, with each signature print telling a story. Natural fibres are at the heart of each collection, such as the highest quality organically grown cotton alongside breathable, sustainable materials like silk and linen. As well as its main collection, the brand also regularly releases exclusive collaborations such as its celebrated partnership with Liberty of London, bringing iconic prints and timeless elegance to its pyjamas. Key pieces include long sleeved cotton pyjamas, stretch jersey short sets and oversized flannel boyfriend shirts. Wholesale prices are around £49.50 per piece on average while the minimum order requirement is £750.
SHOWING AT: Wonderland, INDX Intimates and the brand’s London showroom (20-30 January, contact brand directly for appointments).
CONTACT: Tel: 01580 241 111
E: ben@intimateslingerie.co.uk
Selection process
As the AW26 buying season gets underway, fashion agents are preparing to unveil their latest collections around the country. Here’s our pick of must-visit showrooms and exhibitions to help inspire your next buy…
TOR FASHION
BRANDS: Frank Lyman, Orientique, Cream, Sonia Pena, Allison, Escape, One Summer, Orly, Brave & True, Coco Y Club and Charlie Jane
SHOWING AT: Norwich Wensum Valley (14-15 January); Exeter Court Hotel (18-19 January); Bournemouth Connaught Hotel (20 January); Swansea Mercure Hotel (26 January); Cardiff North Mercure Hotel (28 January); Harrogate Fashion Week (1-3 February); Asia House, London (8-12 February).
BRANDS: Dolcezza, Tricotto, Lola Casademunt and Lola Casademunt by MAITE
SHOWING AT: The Wigmore Room, The Hallam, 44 Hallam Street, London W1W 6JJ (5-20 February); Harrogate Fashion Week (Dolcezza and Tricotto only, 1-3 February).
CONTACT: Tel: 07956 216 801
E: lizdesterre@yahoo.co.uk
CONCRETE-CONCEPT
BRANDS: Adidas (underwear and base layers), Wolford, CCDK, Girlfriend Collective, PJ Salvage, Noblesse Oblige and Schiesser
SHOWING AT: Space G.12, Workspace Ltd, Shepherds Building, Charecroft Way, London, W14 0EE (AW26 appointments from 8 December – 3 February; NOOS sold all year round); Wonderland, Sheraton Grand London Park Lane (excluding Adidas, 25–27 January); Scoop, Olympia National (CCDK and Girlfriend Collective only; 8-10 February).
Join us for a great opportunity to discover some of the most exciting women’s fashion labels this season – all under one roof in the heart of Hammersmith. Expect a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere – we’d love to see you there!
ANTHONY PACKER
Amber & Moon
Ewa I Walla
Grizas
Luukaa
Modula
Neirami
Opificio Neirami
Privatsachen
Vetono
Yellow Label
ARIANE KAISER
Bize
Elemente Clemente
Quilisia Maglieria
JANET THURSTON
Creenstone
Elena Miro
Jei’s
Reset
APT COLLECTIONS
Alembika
Alquema
Baci / Amici
Henriette Steffensen
Kedziorek
Ozai N Ku
TKS
Urban
EXTRAVAGANCE
Nilmark
Sarah Pacini
Serienumerica
Thanny
MATRIX FASHIONS
4B12
Andia Fora
Ania Schierholt
Ernesto Dolani
Jane Lushka
Lotus Eaters
Patrizia Bonfanti
Raffaello Rossi
Showing 25th January - 14th February ‘26*
4th Floor | 26-28 | Hammersmith Grove | London W6 7HA
* Please check with each agency
Fashion Extras
GEMMA WARD PICKS OUT JANUARY’S BEST FOOTWEAR, JEWELLERY AND ACCESSORIES
ON THE UP
Elevate ponytails and up ‘dos with Chalk’s Oxford Hair Tie, featuring a double stacked curved bar with a hammered finish, made with zinc alloy. Available in silver and gold, £5; chalkuk.com
GOOD ON PAPER
Independent paper-maker Cambridge Imprint produces recyclable and biodegradable notebooks and stationery featuring its own original, joyful illustrations. £POA; cambridgeimprint.co.uk/trade
GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY
Blending contemporary design with timeless craftsmanship, Portuguese brand Arte Nova creates modern fine jewellery using goldsmithing techniques passed down multiple generations. £POA; E: gemma@blackpr.co.uk
CALMING INFLUENCE
Featuring three fragrances inspired by the brand’s Scottish island home, Arran’s Mixed Eau de Toilette Discovery Set will transport the senses to a place of tranquillity. £POA; arran.com/pages/arran-wholesale
SPRING BLOOM
Crafted in floaty floral-print viscose, Mos Mosh’s Flowwi Scarf will bring spring joy into stores when it arrives for SS26. £POA; Tel: 07730 072 600 E: cp@mosmosh.com mosmosh.com
COUNTRY LIVING
Handmade in the Vale of Belvoir using crushable Teflon-coated wool, Grace and Dotty’s Audley Teal Fedora will complete any English countryside-inspired edit. £POA; Tel: 01949 842 509 E: info@graceanddotty.com
HEARTS & FLOWERS
Returning for Valentine’s Day 2026, Jellycat’s Amuseables Heart Bag looks set to win admirers when it lands in selected stores later this month. £POA; Tel: 3330 040 900 jellycat.com
MAKING WAVES
Featuring a wavy, nature-inspired silhouette, Pilgrim’s recycled brass Larkin earrings offer a fresh take on classic hoops. Available in gold and silver plated, £POA; Tel: 00456 333 333 E: b2b@pilgrim.dk
MULTIPLE CHOICE
The Avaia by Liavella is the ultimate luxe laptop bag, designed to transition effortlessly between backpack, handheld, shoulder and crossbody styles in both horizontal and vertical configurations. £POA; E: lia@liavella.com
BOUND FOR GLORY
Handcrafted using the finest quality materials, Leathersmith of London’s Salisbury Notebook is made using classic book binding skills used in early hymn books and bibles. £POA; leathersmith.co.uk
BRIGHT IDEA
Add a flash of bold colour to spring outfits with Pom Amsterdam’s printed organic cotton Urban Flora shawl. £POA; E: sales@pom-amsterdam.nl pomamsterdam.com
ROSE-TINTED
Crafted from premium blush rose Mazzucchelli Italian acetate and finished with polarised lenses, Racuzia’s oversized Yara sunglasses are the perfect accessory for winter sunshine. £POA; E: hello@racuzia.com racuzia.com
JOIN THE CLAN
Part of the latest Ganni x Barbour collab, this Waxed Tartan Tote Bag mixes the British brand’s Scottish heritage with a cool, contemporary Scandi aesthetic. £POA; E: sales@barbour.com
HIGH FLYER
Perfect for keeping precious memories close to heart, Fable England’s Blue Tit Locket features intricate hand-painted enamel detailing over 22ct worn goldplated brass. £POA; Tel: 0203 397 5885 E: trade@fableengland.com
QUIET LUXURY
Designed in London and made in Italy, Lalage Beaumont’s The Ninette bag is made from the finest leather and features clean lines, discreet hardware and a gently structured form. £POA; E: catkin@lalagebeaumont.com
GOOD LUCK CHARM
A key theme throughout Parisian jeweller Aurélie Bidermann’s collections, its golden four-leaf clover charm signifies elegance, luck and creative freedom. £POA; E: wholesale@aureliebidermann.com
WEARABLE ART
Created by contemporary artist Ginny Litscher, her eponymous scarf collection features intricate, handdrawn worlds printed on the finest quality silks. £POA; E: elly@blackpr.co.uk
Show of strength
5 REASONS TO VISIT HARROGATE FASHION WEEK ’S AW26 SHOWCASE
Re turning to the picturesque spa town for its fourteenth outing this February, Harrogate Fashion Week (HFW) promises buyers three full days of product sourcing, networking and newseason inspiration. And if last season’s record-breaking showcase is anything to go by, its next instalment is set to be one of the most important fixtures on the AW26 indie fashion calendar. Here’s why it deserves a place in your new-season buying planner...
1. Its popularity speaks for itself
Since its very first edition in 2018, the popularity of HFW has steadily gathered pace. Today the event attracts hundreds of brands each season while its most recent edition in August drew in a 13.5 per cent increase in visitor footfall, with thousands of buyers descending on the North Yorkshire town to select their new season edits.
2. There’s a genuine sense of community
Renowned for its strong networking opportunities and friendly atmosphere, HFW offers a welcoming, well-organised and down-to-earth show experience for retailers and exhibitors alike. Buyers can expect two daily Happy Hours at the Fashion Bar, with free coffees and pastries served each morning, followed by a glass of fizz each afternoon. The much-loved Sunday night post-show party will also return with drinks, canapés and live music.
3. It has an unrivalled location
A strong choice for buyers from all around the UK and Ireland, HFW’s spa-town location provides the perfect backdrop for a busy buying trip, mixing historic architecture and leafy parks with bars, restaurants and boutique hotels. Everything is also within walking distance of the show, which is why many buyers choose to extend their stay.
4. Discover everything in one place
Bringing hundreds of womenswear, footwear, accessories, lingerie, swimwear and occasionwear brands together under one roof, HFW gives buyers a rare opportunity to plan their entire new season edit in one place. The show combines four halls of exhibitors spanning multiple price points, target customers and categories, offering buyers a timeefficient way to assess fabrics, colours, fit and quality without the need for multiple buying trips.
5. Be inspired by its brand mix
R eturning brands for AW26 include Barbara Lebek, Soya Concept, Traffic People, Vilagallo, Smith and Soul, YAYA, Gabriela Sanchez, Peruzzi, Alice Collins, Wonders, Lily and Me, Tinta and Carla Ruiz. They are joined by a fresh wave of new names, including Dea Kudibal, Caroline Svenbom, Guess, Gioseppo, Rabe, Damart, Summum, Bitte Kai Rand, Day ET, MSCH, Nu Denmark, Tretorn, Vero Moda, ONLY and Woden. “Seeing the mix of brands coming together for the February line-up has been incredibly exciting,” says event director Georgia Flynn. “It is full of wellknown favourites and new faces bringing fresh energy to the show –exactly what buyers need when planning their new collections.”
The next edition of Harrogate Fashion Week takes place on 1-3 February at Harrogate Convention Centre; register for free entry via harrogatefashionweek.com.
It’s almost time to join together in Harrogate, for our biggest February show to date. Your favourite Four Halls of Fashion will be flowing with new and cutting-edge brands, in addition to many established labels making their return for AW26.
It’s THE show you can’t afford to miss!
Smith & Soul
Hogl
Robell
Lecomte Frandsen
Carla Ruiz
Hall pass
POMODORO
STAND: M10
Established for over 30 years, British womenswear label Pomodoro is best known for its signature dresses and glamorous aesthetic. For AW26, knitwear takes centre stage with timeless classics elevated with a modern twist. Argyle emerges as a key category favourite while decorative stitching such as blanket or whip stitch adds depth and interest. Elsewhere, the collection features stylish separates and luxe layers in tactile textures, with chocolate brown, chestnut and berry sitting alongside flashes of lime, spice, pink and electric blue. Dramatic colour blocking takes centre stage, with bold horizontal bands and multi-coloured stripes injecting colour and energy into outfits. There’s a strong selection of trousers in solid and print designs this season as well as pleather and pleated skirts in a variety of shapes and fabrics. Finally, faux fur brings glamour to the collection, with standouts including its show-stopping Leopard Faux Fur Jacket. Available in UK sizes 8-18; also showing at INDX Woman (stand P190), Pomodoro’s London showroom and regional agents around the country (contact the brand directly for details).
CONTACT: Tel: 0208 961 4000 pomodoroclothing.com
SAMANTHA JANE
STAND: B43
Occasionwear label Samantha Jane entered the market last year offering a softer, more modern approach to traditional mother-of-the-bride dressing. The brand's focus is on versatile perfect-fit pieces in simple shapes and beautiful fabrics, offered at affordable luxury price points. Designing with UK shoppers in mind, it offers boutiques a flexible service with in-season top-ups and loans for in-store events. For SS26, it is debuting a new resortwear collection that’s perfect for pool parties and destination weddings. Meanwhile, available to forward order, its AW26 offer is influenced by catwalk trends with tactile fabrics such as lace and satin sitting alongside maximalist details and embellishments. Flattering fit and flare silhouettes are key this season alongside long column dresses. Meanwhile, the label has refreshed its past bestsellers in new colours and prints for maximum sell-through potential. Wholesale prices are around £100 per piece on average while the minimum order requirement is 12pcs (three sizes across 4 styles).
With each collection centred on affordable everyday essentials, Australian womenswear label Betty Basics creates elevated casualwear in fun colours, flattering shapes and striking prints. Its AW26 line-up renews the brand’s focus on trend-led comfort, offering polished pieces in a classic colour palette combining wintery blues with warm brights such as cinnamon spice. Offering comfortable pieces with a fashion-led aesthetic, dressing for autumn has never been easier with this versatile and uplifting womenswear collection. Wholesale prices range from £12 for tees, £16 for jumpers and £29 for outerwear while the minimum order requirement is £1,500; also showing at INDX Woman (P430) Carol C Collections showroom in London and Leeds plus regional UK agents (contact brand directly for details). CONTACT: Tel: 0800 612 9009 E: info@carolccollections.com carolccollections.com
NEW COLLECTIONS
ZSISKA
STAND: C30
Created by Dutch jewellery designer Siska Schippers, Zsiska’s jewellery is handmade to order in Thailand using a rare two or three step painting and coating process. The designs are often combined with high quality materials, such as 24k gold and pure silver leaf, making each piece unique. For SS26, the brand has teamed up with Dame Prue Leith for another season to create a bold collection that will stand out in-store and online. Elsewhere, the jewellery brand’s Ole collection features vibrant resin pieces with star and heart shaped details while its new Organic range offers easy-wear styles in natural pared-back colourways. Wholesale prices range from £8 to £20 per piece while the minimum order requirement is £300; also showing at Top Drawer (stand 248), Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring (K81) and Spring Fair (2M17)
Established for over 20 years, Danish brand HSCPH offers elevated basics for men and women. Its seasonal staples are effortlessly stylish, blending sophisticated neutral colourways with flattering cuts and premium sustainable fabrics. For AW26, its collection includes everyday heroes with luxe details, such as Ecovero jersey tees, warm viscose blend fleece sweaters and joggers, throw-on cotton dresses and tunics as well as winter accessories. All garments are designed in Denmark and produced in carefully selected European factories, ensuring quality craftsmanship and minimal environmental impact. Each is made to last while the label repurposes leftover fabric to create waste-reducing limited editions. Also showing at Apt Collections, 4th Floor, 26 - 28 Hammersmith Grove, Hammersmith, London, W6 7HA (25 January – 13 February).
CONTACT: Tel: 020 7580 3202 aptcollections.co.uk
German footwear brand Caprice blends premium materials with advanced comfort technology to create long-lasting shoes, boots and trainers. For AW26, its design team has reimagined classic shapes with refined, feminine accents. There’s an expanded range of knee-high boots - including styles available in width H - in contemporary, minimalist silhouettes. New sole constructions distinguished by lightness, flexibility and soft cushioning add a distinctive character while ultralight lugged soles bring modernity and function. Elsewhere, sneakers, casual shoes and booties crafted in premium leathers and luxurious deerskin feature its new RollMotion technology. Characterised by a rounded sole, the new addition enables a smooth, ergonomic rolling motion while integrated stabilisation supports balance and promotes a healthy, upright posture. CONTACT: Tel: 07734 247 669 E: capriceshoes@gmail.com
Our showrooms are based 5 miles from the City centre of Manchester on the East Lancashire Road, within easy reach of surrounding motorways or a short taxi ride from Piccadilly Station. We have ample free parking directly outside.
We have a varied selection of international brands to suit all ages and budgets. If you would like to come along and view any of our collections or for more details, please do get in touch. (Evening and weekend appointments available.)
Warmest wishes from Amanda and the Team
BARILOCHE
DORIS STREICH
DORIS STREICH
TINTA
ALLISON
NEW COLLECTIONS
GYM+COFFEE
STAND: B1
Born in Dublin in 2017, lifestyle brand Gym+Coffee offers quality off-duty basics in stylish silhouettes and premium fabrics. Its range initially launched with a single hoodie and has since expanded into a full athleisure wardrobe spanning leggings, tees, crews, shorts, fleeces and layering essentials. For AW26, buyers can expect timeless staples made for everyday wear in earthy neutrals and vibrant pops of colour. Heroes include the brand’s signature Industry fleece, featuring a teddy exterior and cosy brushed fleece lining, that has been reworked in new styles and colourways. Meanwhile, its lighter and highly versatile Polar fleece returns this season offering both shorter cuts and a longer line option to appeal to every shopper. Wholesale prices range from £30-40 per piece on average while the minimum order requirement is £2,500; also showing at INDX Woman (D105).
Italian lingerie label Ambra leads in innovation, creating soft and supportive underwear and shapewear crafted with fit and comfort in mind. For AW26, its Solara collection is inspired by the soft glow of golden hour evoking warmth, radiance and optimism. Each piece is designed to uplift the wearer’s mood, with natural fibres, recycled materials and soft and sleek textures that blend form and function. Key pieces include its Leopard Print Bondi Bare Shaper Crop and co-ordinating hi-cut Brief alongside its Seamless Smoothies Full Brief and Killer Curves Shaping Short shapewear. This season the brand is also introducing a new Pure basics Maternity collection, including a two-in-one feeding bra, cross over crop and feeding cami crafted in seamless modal. Wholesale prices are around £8 per piece on average while the brand offers free delivery on orders over £300/ 50 pieces; also showing at INDX Intimate Apparel (stand P460).
Offering quality legwear for women of all ages, Charnos Hosiery has a solution for every occasion – from classic sheers and trusty opaques to high fashion party tights. Available on both short and forward order, the brand’s range includes sophisticated hosiery styles spanning everyday wear to luxury knits. For AW26, its new season colour palette includes cinnamon, cherry, grape and chocolate with a hint of deep teal. Elsewhere, spots, plaid, herringbone and crystal embellishment tights will appeal to trend-led shoppers, with more subtle sheer designs emerging for SS26. Its range also features fashion anklets and knee highs, organic cotton socks with ribs, bows, stripes and spots as well as seasonal socks in cashmere or with pompom details. Wholesale prices are around £5.65 per piece on average while the brand offers free delivery on orders over £300 or 96 units; also showing at INDX Intimate Apparel (P460).
NEXT MONTH’S SCOOP WILL UNVEIL A NEW WHIMSICAL THEME TO CAPTURE BUYERS’ IMAGINATIONS FOR AW26
Re turning to Olympia National this February, premium fashion trade show Scoop is stepping into its fifteenth year with a new theme that perfectly captures its ‘whimsical’ spirit.
T he London-based event, first launched at the Saatchi Gallery in February 2011, is revered as one of the most curated fashion events on the UK buying calendar. For AW26, its showcase will set the stage for discovery once more by blending design, imagination and the unexpected as part of the buying experience.
T his season, founder Karen Radley welcomes buyers into a space where elegance and eccentricity sit side by side. T he result is an exceptional mix
of British and international design talent that has become a defining feature of Scoop.
R adley’s careful curation brings together a considered selection of international designers whose work reflects craftsmanship, commercial relevance and contemporary design.
D anish brands including Enamel Copenhagen, Gustav, Part Two, Mos Mosh, Nuni Copenhagen, InWear, Soya Concept, Woden, St. Tropez, Soaked in Luxury and mbyM s howcase the country's clean, modern aesthetic, which continues to resonate strongly with UK retailers . Meanwhile, Italian designers such as Lavi, JEi’S, Montereggi Point, Transet, Tandem, Roberta Pieri and Whyci contribute
their unmistakable blend of craftsmanship, contemporary elegance and effortless style.
“Scoop has always been about presenting collections with a true sense of identity - pieces that surprise, inspire and feel genuinely meaningful to buyers,” says Radley. “This season’s designers, from established international names to exciting new voices, embody the creativity and quality that lie at the heart of the show.”
D espite its international appeal, Scoop’s point of difference is its intimate, immersive and intentionally designed atmosphere that encourages exploration. Its next edition promises to heighten that experience further with its Whimsical theme, bringing a sense of playful elegance to the show floor.
W hether discovering future bestseller s, reconnecting with trusted design houses or uncovering inspiration, visitors can expect Scoop’s signature blend of artistry, commerce and imagination when it opens its doors again next month .
The next edition of Scoop takes place from 8-10 February at Olympia National, London; register for free entry at scoop-international.com.
Introducing Luella SS26 –a vibrant new season of colour and print. See the collection at Scoop International and Spring Fair this February.
COLOUR YOUR LIFE
SUSTAINABLY STYLISH WITH A MODERN TWIST, LUELLA ’S SS26 COLLECTION ELEVATES EVERYDAY CLOTHING INTO STATEMENT-MAKING JOYFUL FASHION
British womenswear brand Luella brings joy into everyday wardrobes with its bold approach to modern styling. Colour isn’t just used as an accent - it’s the foundation of every collection. With bright, uplifting designs inspired by life’s simple pleasures, expect feel-good prints, wearable shapes and vibrant hues. For SS26, the label's short-order collection is made with thoughtfully sourced, sustainable materials chosen for their quality, softness and lower environmental impact. Inspired by the beauty of the natural world, summer landscapes, and modern living, its latest line-up features floral motifs and organic forms across dresses, crisp cotton shirts and flattering skirts. A joyful mix of pink, coral and blue tones brings a fresh, uplifting feel while bold prints add a sense of celebration to everyday staples. Designed in the Cotswolds and produced by skilled artisans in India, standouts include the flowing Sassari maxi dress in a pink and green striped lotus flower print, the cotton Bari jacket in an intricately detailed Indian pattern and Luella’s signature breathable cotton shirts Showing at Spring Fair (stand: 2E15) and Scoop; minimum order £500.
Liz d’Esterre Fashion Agency
London showing dates and venue:
The Wigmore Room, The Hallam, 44 Hallam Street, London, W1W 6JJ
Thursday 5th to Friday 20th February 2026
Also showing:
at Harrogate Fashion Week:
Sunday 1st to Tuesday 3rd February 2026 on Stand M9.
Contact details for more information or to make an appointment:
ART MEETS NATURE IN LILY AND ME ’S CAREFULLY CONSIDERED AW26 WOMENSWEAR OFFER
As part of its mission to bring creative and considered clothing to everyday wardrobes, Lily and Me designs sustainable, feel-good womenswear and accessories from its Gloucestershire-based studio. The family-founded label is best known for its distinctive prints and commitment to quality, with every piece from its collection produced at its own factory in Nepal. With a strong emphasis on people and the planet, its range is responsibly crafted using materials and fabrics chosen to minimise its environmental impact.
For AW26, the label’s collection – From the Studio - draws inspiration from creative spaces where art and nature meet. Its team say the focus is on slowing down and dressing with intention, offering comfortable and wearable pieces that have been made with care and consideration.
R elaxed tailoring and layered textures combine with mood-enhancing colour stories and heritage influences. Elsewhere, colour pops and soft textures help elevate simple silhouettes and feminine touches.
Key colours for the season include soft sage, potter’s pink and calming seamist. The brand’s signature bestselling knitwear returns with a selection of yarns to carry shoppers through the season, including a new cashmere and silk blend made by specialist craftsmen in Nepal. Split into capsuled drops, an early autumn offering covers the trans-seasonal period between summer and autumn with beautiful woven shirting, co-ordinating neutrals and soft jersey layers. As the days shorten, the collection brings versatility and newness in the form of printed organic cotton pincord, organic woven and jersey cottons, Tencel denim and knitwear. Finally, the festive period sees the arrival of a beautiful heavy Ecovero crepe featuring a signature Lily bloom, alongside delicate occasion knitwear, rich caramel toned jumbo cord and a new recycled boucle knit.
Lily and Me’s accessories and gifts are equally thoughtful in their designs. Buyers can create a sustainable edit to inspire shoppers throughout the season, with its co-ordinating bags and multi-bands, handcrafted cold pressed soaps, bamboo socks and felt keyring gift boxes.
Showing at INDX Woman and Harrogate Fashion Week; wholesale prices range from £5-£35 per piece on average while the minimum order requirement is £2,000.
FIRST LOOK
SECURE YOUR NEW-SEASON COLLECTIONS EARLY AT THIS MONTH’S INDX WOMAN
INDX Woman returns to Solihull’s Cranmore Park this month as the first UK womenswear trade show of 2026. Offering independent retailers an early opportunity to secure commercially focused collections for the season ahead, the show is curated by buying experts at Associated Independent Stores specifically for the indie sector, bringing together more than 130 collections across womenswear, footwear and fashion accessories. Buyers can expect established commercial brands alongside new-to-market names, with key exhibitors including Only, Vero Moda, Vila, Guess, French Connection, Joules, Pomodoro, Brakeburn, Lily and Me, Robell, B.young, Soya Concept, Weird Fish, Pulz, Lighthouse and Tretorn, alongside accessories and footwear brands such as Barts, Alice Wheeler, Jess and Lou, Caprice and Ravel. In addition to product sourcing, the show will include trend presentations from BDA London on days two and three, highlighting key products from across the exhibition halls. A networking social will also take place at the end of day one, providing an opportunity for buyers to connect with fellow indies and suppliers.
Smart steps
NEW COMFORT TECHNOLOGIES UPDATE CAPRICE ’S FOOTWEAR STYLES FOR AW26
German footwear innovator Caprice is stepping into AW26 with a collection focused on fit, function and comfort-led technology. New this season is the brand’s RollMotion rounded sole, which supports balance and a healthy posture. The update features across a range of styles throughout its latest line-up - from sneakers and casual shoes to booties in premium leathers and sheepskin. Elsewhere, knee-high boots play a leading role, with the brand’s design team reworking classic silhouettes with cleaner lines and feminine detailing. Buyers can now stock a bigger width offer – including H and K fittings – to help drive extra sales. Sneakers and casual shoes are also strong for AW26, with the brand introducing new light and flexible soles with soft cushioning technology, ultralight lugged soles and others in fashion-led wool-inspired colourways. A warm palette of caramel, cognac, chocolate brown and classic black brings a contemporary feel to the collection alongside Bordeaux, ocean blue and soft taupe. Buyers can also expect premium quality materials such as smooth leathers in two-tone finishes, refined velours and luxurious deerskin throughout this season’s range. The next edition of
Showing at:
Harrogate Fashion Week
1st - 3rd February 2026
Stand A25
Index Woman Show
25th - 27th Jan 2026
stand P410 & P480
Scoop
8th - 10th Feb 2026
Showing at:
Harrogate Fashion Week
1st - 3rd February 2026
Stand A25
Index Woman Show
25th - 27th Jan 2026
stand P410 & P480
1-5
1-3
Down to business
STRONG FOUNDATIONS
Indie retailers are beginning 2026 under growing pressure to protect margin and make sharper commercial decisions. This month, retail strategist, author and campaigner Clare Bailey offers an unflinching look at what really drives profit today – from disciplined buying and merchandising to confident full-price selling. Here's why getting the fundamentals right has never mattered more…
Back to basics
RETAIL PROFIT IN 2026 WILL NOT BE DRIVEN BY FLASH SALES OR SHORT-TERM FIXES. HERE RETAIL EXPERT CLARE BAILEY
EXPLAINS WHY LAYING
THE RIGHT
FOUNDATIONS IS KEY TO PROTECTING MARGIN AND BUILDING A STRONGER BUSINESS
Af ter a challenging Christmas period, fashion retailers heading into 2026 are being forced to confront an uncomfortable truth: margin recovery will not come from gimmicks or short-term fixes. No. It will come from getting the fundamentals right - the often unglamorous, frequently overlooked but absolutely critical behindthe-scenes tasks.
T he so-called golden quarter of 2025 was a moment of reckoning for many independent retailers – and we’ve already seen the casualties. Some emerged resilient and confident for the new year while others were left carrying discounted stock and an unsettling feeling that their investment didn’t quite pay off.
But the difference wasn’t visibility or spend. It was the commercial foundations.
Truth or dare
T he festive period exposed the strengths and weaknesses of range planning like never before. Indies with a tight, well-edited assortment saw strong sellthrough on hero lines, repeat purchases and fewer markdowns. Yet those with bloated ranges, duplicated silhouettes or overly optimistic buys found themselves discounting early and often.
F ashion is emotional, expressive and seasonal. But commercially it is unforgiving. Every slow-moving rail represents wasted space and margins leaking away. When bestselling knitwear, dresses or accessories sell out too early, the problem is not demand - it is depth and forecasting. When fringe styles hang around until January sales, the problem is not customers, it is buying discipline.
B ack-to-basics lifestyle and fashion retailing starts with a simple question: what actually makes money?
Tighter control
For years, variety was positioned as a competitive advantage in fashion retail. More colours, more silhouettes, more storytelling.
T hat approach is now under pressure.
Post-pandemic shifts in consumer behaviour, combined with sustained cost-of-living constraints, have changed purchasing patterns. Customers are now more selective, value-led and less inclined to take risks on short-life product. Longevity, versatility and perceived quality now carry greater weight than volume of choice.
E xcessive range breadth is a commercial liability. It introduces friction into the buying decision, dilutes demand across similar SKUs and increases markdown exposure. The retailers achieving the strongest margins are not those chasing maximum assortment. They are those managing range architecture deliberately through disciplined silhouettes, repeatable bestsellers and continuity lines supported by seasonal evolution rather than wholesale replacement.
In practical terms, this means ruthless range editing, removing overlapping styles that compete for the same customer and spend, plus building clear “good, better, best” pricing ladders. The most successful retailers are also using accessories, styling and merchandising to refresh their offer without inflating the SKU count.
T his is not a conservative approach – it’s a commercially disciplined one.
The price is right
D iscounting has become dangerously normalised in fashion. What was once a strategic tool is now often a reflex. When margins tighten, many retailers instinctively reach for promotions, flash sales or blanket discountsyet these rarely solve the underlying problem.
F ashion customers are not driven by price alone, they’re often driven by value. When a garment is priced deliberately, merchandised well and supported with clear product storytelling, it can sell at full margin because the customer understands exactly what they are paying for.
Indies that held price integrity through Christmas 2025 often did so by training their staff to explain fabric, fit and versatility. They styled pieces in multiple ways to increase perceived value. They were also confident in offering fewer discounts, not leaning on flashy promotions.
Heavy discounting rarely signals a pricing problem. More often, it reflects buying decisions that didn’t stack up from the get-go. Back-to-basics retailing fixes the buy first, rather than using markdowns as damage control.
Lost in space
F ashion is visual. Yet, many independents underuse their most powerful asset - the space they have on the shop floor. Rail density, sightlines, outfit building and focal points all influence conversion, but they are rarely reviewed with the same rigour as buying budgets.
O vercrowded rails signal indecision, not abundance. Clear merchandising, strong mannequin inspiration and disciplined colour stories make it easier for customers to understand the offer, see themselves in the product and buy with confidence.
S mall changes can deliver disproportionate impact, such as hanging fewer pieces on each rail, but rotating stock more frequently. Indies should show clear outfit stories, rather than isolated garments, to inspire shoppers and encourage additional sales. Feature tables, meanwhile, can also be used to sell combinations rather than single items.
None of this requires additional spend, only intention and consistency.
Teamwork
In fashion retail, staff confidence directly affects margin. A knowledgeable stylist who can explain fit, suggest alternatives and build outfits will outperform any discount sign. Yet training is often deprioritised once the Christmas period is over.
T he most resilient boutiques invest time in teaching their staff the commercial and product story behind the range, not just the aesthetic. They often align their team’s focus to what actually needs to sell, not what is easiest to sell.
"Longevity, versatility and perceived quality now carry greater weight than volume of choice"
Successful indie owners reinforce key lines and hero products consistently across the shop floor. They also encourage their team to cross-sell through styling and outfit building, not pressure, and empower them to speak confidently about price.
A customer who feels guided rather than sold to is far more likely to buy at full price and keep coming back.
Data driven
Independent fashion retailers are sitting on valuable data, but all too often it goes underused. EPoS systems can already reveal the business’s true sell-through rates by style, colour and size; margin contribution by brand, category and price point; plus, the cost of holding slow-moving stock versus reinvesting cash in proven winners.
Used properly, this data also shows the sizes that consistently sell out first and where depth is misjudged; the colours that convert reliably and those that simply add noise; which “niceto-have” lines dilute margin without driving volume; and where repeat buying patterns point to future continuity lines.
Christmas debriefs should not be emotional post-mortems - they should be forensic reviews. Which lines paid the rent? Which absorbed time, cash, and markdowns? What deserves repeating, and what does not?
B ack-to-basics retailing means letting numbers challenge instinct.
That said, there’s no need to invest heavily in the latest technology. Digital tools can enhance fashion retail, but only when they support the basics. A smart EPoS, effective stock control, and simple CRM will always outperform flashy tech layered onto broken foundations.
Technology should answer one question: does this save time, increase margin, or improve customer experience? If not, it is a distraction. The most effective systems are those staff actually use, owners trust, and buyers act on.
Loyalty, not points
T his is also true when it comes to loyalty programmes. For boutique shoppers, loyalty is usually relational rather than transactional. Customers return because they feel recognised, understood and well styled, not because they are accumulating points.
T he most effective loyalty strategies are understated and operational. They are about remembering each customer’s preferences, sizing and past purchases so staff can provide a highly personalised service every time. It’s also crucial to communicate when new stock genuinely suits an existing customer. The best loyalty strategy will create surprises that reinforce value, not discount dependency.
T his form of loyalty protects margin because it builds trust. And trust supports full-price selling.
A simple solution
There is a temptation in fashion retail to constantly chase the next big thing. But the retailers building sustainable businesses into 2026 are doing the opposite. They are simplifying.
T his includes smarter buying, selling with confidence and protecting margins by respecting their offer. Back-to-basics
retailing is not nostalgic, it’s strategic. And in a market where costs are rising and customers are discerning, it is the most powerful route to profit available.
Margin gains are not hidden in the next system, supplier or campaign. They are already on the shop floor - on the rail, on the table, and in the hands of teams who know what they are selling and why.
The opportunity is not to add more, it’s to level-up the amazing business you’ve already built
Clare Bailey is one of the UK’s leading independent retail experts, consultant, speaker and founder of Retail Champion. She advises retail businesses from sole traders to major brands and is a regular commentator across national media; find out more at retailchampion.co.uk and listen to her latest podcast via retailreckoningpodcast.co.uk
Margin reset checklist
5 FUNDAMENTAL QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING SEASON
1. What actually paid the rent?
It’s time to nail down the lines that delivered strong sell-through at full price and those that only absorbed margin and time.
2. Where did depth fail?
Use sales data to identify which bestsellers sold out too early and where over-buying diluted demand.
3. Which styles competed for the same spend?
Identify duplicated silhouettes, colours or price points that cannibalised each other.
4. Where did discounting replace decision-making?
Review your post-Christmas markdowns to see which were driven by genuine pricing strategy and which were the result of weak buying discipline.
5. What deserves repeating –and what does not?
Continuity lines should be based on proven performance, not seasonal habit.
A disciplined review now will protect margin, simplify ranges and create space for stronger full-price selling in 2026.
Shop talk
HARD RESET
Anew year brings a chance to recalibrate. After 12 more unpredictable months, many independent retailers are tightening their focus and rethinking what really drives performance. Over the next few pages, indies from across the UK share how they are approaching the year ahead and where they are choosing to focus their energy for 2026…
Rise & shine
FROM
BUYING
DECISIONS
TO NURTURING THEIR TEAMS, INDEPENDENT RETAILERS SHARE THE STRATEGIES THEY BELIEVE WILL MAKE THE BIGGEST IMPACT IN 2026
January marks the beginning of a new chapter. And after another testing year for the sector, many independent retailers are ready to embrace a fresh start. But with 2026 beginning with shock closures across the industry, few are expecting an easy ride ahead. While inflation and interest rates are easing, April will bring rising staffing costs and further business
“Relationships will always be our biggest strength”
Dorothy
Robinson, Dotique, Chesterfield and Rowsley
“For me, this year will be about continuing to do what we do best, but with more confidence and calm. Dotique has always been about helping women feel good in themselves, and I’m looking forward to strengthening that even further by refining our offer and continuing to welcome customers who value personal service and thoughtful buying.
“I feel positive about the coming months, but realistic. Retail has changed hugely since I first opened Dotique in 2017, and you have to stay adaptable. That said, our customers are loyal, our values are clear, and our purpose hasn’t changed. That gives me reassurance, even when the wider landscape feels uncertain.
“Rising costs and changing customer habits remain a challenge for us as a business, but we’re addressing this by being very considered, such as buying with intention, avoiding excess and focusing on quality, always. We also place huge importance on training and consistency, so customers receive the same high level of service in every store and online.
“Relationships will always be our biggest strength. So, our strongest focus in-store will be on welcoming customers, remembering them, and helping them feel confident in their choices. Online, it’s about translating that same trust and care, making shopping feel easy, reassuring and personal - even through a screen.”
rates pressure as measures from the Autumn Statement come into effect. To survive, the year ahead will be about focusing on what indies do best: highly curated edits, standout service and a memorable shopping experience. Here, independent retailers from across the country reveal how they are planning for the year ahead and where they are choosing to place their bets for 2026…
People buy from people”
Sophie Young, Dotique, Witney “This year I’m most excited about building on the momentum we’ve created and taking Dotique to more women who haven’t discovered us yet. There’s a real opportunity to tell our story more clearly online and to show that independent boutiques can still feel personal, warm and inspiring no matter how you shop with us.
I feel positive about 2026 and very clear about where we’re heading. This past year was my first full year in retail, and it was an intense learning curve - I learned quickly, on the shop floor, and behind the scenes. That experience has given me a deep understanding of how the business really works day to day, what matters most to our customers, and where our time and energy make the biggest difference. Going into this year, it feels much more about building confidently on that knowledge, rather than working everything out from scratch.
“Visibility is a big challenge for independents, so we strive to stand out without shouting and always stay true to who we are as a brand. We’re navigating this by being consistent, improving our systems, and investing time in understanding our customer journey properly. When everything behind the scenes works well, it shows in the customer experience.
“My focus will be on making Dotique feel unmistakably human. That means better storytelling, clearer online navigation, real-life styling content and strong links between our stores and digital presence. People buy from people, and keeping that front and centre is what will continue to drive growth.”
Customers need to feel appreciated and valued”
Roo Cross, R.Place, Newquay
“This year I’m most looking forward to researching and expanding our own brand, R Goods, which is going from strength to strength. We feel so passionate about it - the shapes and quality are so good, and our customers love it.
“January is buying season and for us it’s the best part of what we do. We’re looking at several new brands for menswear, womenswear and homeware and have some exciting appointments in the diary as well as some upcoming collaborations.
“We’re feeling excited and confident about the year ahead. We’ve had such positive feedback following our re-brand last June, and feel that the business is continuously improving and evolving. We also have some great new areas that we’re exploring and developing.
“But we of course live in challenging times. The world is precarious, and our government isn’t supporting small, independent businesses. However, we have a strong, loyal community and we believe that we have curated an offering that people want which strikes a balance between value for money, quality, desirability and practicality all under our umbrella of excellent customer service and a warm, friendly, approachable ethos. This is key for the current world we live in. Customers need to feel appreciated and valued and have trust in the service we provide and that we will look after them and make their experience with us positive and fulfilling.
“We have a renewed focus on digital marketing, photography and content creation which is driving new followers and customer interaction, using real people and the team that work in R Place. People can relate to us and appreciate our honesty and knowledge about the brands that we stock. We are also working with other like-minded businesses both locally and globally to forge associations and relationships to help get our brand in front of more customers who are right for us.”
“People want retailers they can believe in”
Sally Parkinson, Sue Parkinson, Cirencester
“I’m looking forward to some recalibration after a bit of a topsy-turvy year, both as a family and as a business . It feels like our customers are slowing down a little, asking more questions about where things come from and how they’re made, plus thinking about whether they actually need them. We’re looking forward to more considered buying and selecting pieces that feel intentional rather than reactive. We're excited to introduce some new brands to the mix, and our early SS26 arrivals
are bringing the anticipation of longer days, lighter evenings and the joy of wearing brighter colours.
“We are cautiously optimistic for the year ahead. I’d be lying if we said we weren’t a bit anxious about the economy and the wider state of the world; those worries don’t disappear just because you’re passionate about what you do. But at the same time, we’ve noticed a growing appreciation for independence, service, quality and trust. People want retailers they can believe in. That gives us confidence that there’s still space for what we do - even if the landscape keeps shifting.
“However, cost pressures, changing spending habits, and the sheer noise of fast fashion are all very real challenges. We can’t compete on volume or price, and we don’t want to. Our response is to be clearer and braver about who we are: buying more strategically and telling the stories behind the clothes. We’re also keeping our business agile, staying close to our numbers and listening closely to our customers, who are at the heart of everything we do.
“Our main focus for driving footfall will be on connection, above all. In store, that means creating a space people genuinely enjoy spending time inthoughtful styling, honest advice, and events that make the shop feel like a community rather than just a transaction. Online, it’s about storytelling and trust: showing how pieces are worn, why they matter, and how they fit into a longer-term wardrobe. We’re not chasing trends - we’re encouraging people to buy better, wear more, and keep things longer. If we do that well, we believe the sales will follow.”
“I’m really optimistic about 2026”
Pamela Shiffer, Pamela Shiffer, London “I’m heading into the new year with positivity. I’m mostly really looking forward to introducing the new brands we’ve found into the store and to our customers. Sourcing newness is so important to us as an independent retailer, and we’ve got it coming in for SS26 in abundance.
“I’m really optimistic about 2026. I plan to travel more than in previous years on buying trips in search of some hidden gems. It’s so important that we’re offering fresh and exciting pieces that our customers can’t find elsewhere.
“The life as an independent retailer is filled with challenges, but building a strong team that shares your vision is key. Therefore, besides ensuring our customers’ needs are met, I will be focusing on supporting my staff. My team is like my extended family. If they're happy, so am I.
“My other main focus this year will be on driving sales both in store and online as we’ve always done. We’ll also be striving to offer an excellent service and the perfect collections for our customers that fit our brand. I’m very excited for what will come next!”
Our customers value honesty, styling advice and trust”
Amy Cook, Eighty Seven Style, Melbourne
“I’m really looking forward to building on what’s already been working well this year. Over the past 12 months we’ve gently expanded our product mix - adding more accessories, homeware and a small menswear edit. The response has been really encouraging! It’s nice to see customers enjoying those additions alongside our womenswear, and it gives us confidence to keep developing the offer in a thoughtful, considered way.
“I’m feeling cautiously optimistic about the year ahead. Retail has had its ups and downs, but there’s still such a strong appetite for well-chosen products and good service. I feel more grounded than I have in previous years - clearer on what I want the business to be, and comfortable saying no to things that don’t quite fit. That clarity feels like a good place to start the year.
“The biggest challenge is still the wider economic climate - customers are thoughtful about how they spend, and rightly so. My focus is on making sure everything we bring in earns its place, whether that’s through quality, versatility or longevity. We’re also keeping stock levels considered, so we can stay flexible and responsive rather than overcommitted.
“Driving footfall always comes back to connection. In store, that means creating a space people genuinely enjoy visiting - events, late nights, seasonal moments, and a really welcoming atmosphere. Online, it’s about continuing to grow the website and social channels in a way that still feels personal and true to us. Our customers value honesty, styling advice and trust, so we’ll keep leaning into that rather than chasing trends or quick wins.”
“We pride ourselves on offering unique, less widely distributed brands””
Liz Jefferson, Doodie Stark, Lindfield and
Horsham
“I am feeling very positive about the year ahead. Since opening our new store over two years ago and appointing a manager at our Horsham location, the business has demonstrated steady growth over the past few years. While we have faced a number of challenges during this time, I am confident in our ability to sustain this progress and continue to build on this momentum in the year ahead.
“We have also recently appointed a new marketing manager, and I look forward to working closely with her to identify opportunities for growth across the business. This includes increasing engagement on our social media platforms, driving higher online order volumes, and boosting in-store footfall for a business that has been successfully operating for 15 years.
“But like most indie retailers we are facing a number of challenges. Competition from online-only brands, fast fashion retailers, resale platforms, and global marketplaces continues to intensify, making it increasingly difficult to compete on price and visibility. To address this, I plan to attend more international trade shows to source new brands that do not have a presence on large online platforms. We have always prided ourselves on offering unique, carefully curated, and less widely distributed brands, and this remains a key reason our customers choose to shop with us.
“We have established a substantial database of both in-store and online customers, and our focus will be on strengthening how we engage with them - whether through targeted social media activity or regular newsletters. We are also in the early stages of discussions with our brands and external partners to collaborate on instore events, which play a key role in driving footfall and consistently contribute to increased sales.”
“The start of the year is always an opportunity to look forward with new ideas, plans and renewed enthusiasm”
BIRA CEO ANDREW GOODACRE
ON FESTIVE FORECASTS, POLICY CHANGES AND PLANNING FOR A SUCCESSFUL YEAR
Ihope you had a productive and enjoyable festive period. Early forecasts suggest C hristmas shopping started later than in previous years, with generally fewer people around on the high street. So, if you did better than last year, you did very well!
T he start of the year is always an opportunity to look forward with new ideas, new plans and renewed enthusiasm. In the Chinese calendar, this year is the year of the ‘Fire Horse’ representing courage, passion and change. These are characteristics I’ve always identified with independent retailers, and I do not doubt that these very same qualities will come to the fore as you navigate the opportunities presented over the next 12 months.
In last month’s column, I expressed my concerns about the Autumn Budget and the policies impacting indie retailers. Business owners have until April to prepare for the changes, so I suggest you use this time wisely. First, please check that your business rateable value is correct by visiting gov.uk/find-business-rates Then, when your rates bill arrives, check the details and the increase in the rates payable is no more than 15 per cent - anything higher is a mistake.
E mployment rules and costs will also change in April. The National Living Wage for people aged 21+ will increase by 50p per hour, and 85p an hour for 18–20-year-olds. Now is the time to review your payroll and rotas and give notice of any changes. In terms of the rules, the Employment Rights Bill will make employment more complex, and I recommend you research the changes being proposed – there are too many to mention here. However, sick pay will be due from day one, so that is a significant cost change.
Away from managing costs, we also have to look ahead to sales development. In a competitive market it is vital to find different selling propositions. For independents this is often focused on the more unique, quality product range. Service is also a strong selling point for the smaller shops.
My recommendation for 2026 is to introduce a loyalty programme if you do not already have one. Ask yourself how you reward loyalty. A loyalty scheme doesn’t have to be complicated or require a lot of technical support. Stamped cards, most commonly used in coffee shops, are the simplest form.
But if you do have a more complex system, you may be able to introduce a digital scheme. Whichever method you prefer, the most important thing is that you promote it to existing and new customers. Shoppers respond well to loyalty cards – that’s why there are so many of them around.
R etail has never been easy, and it continues to be one of the most competitive business sectors. Despite this, I still believe there is a place for independent retail and brands. More than 65 per cent of all goods are still bought in shops, which proves that there is still a role for bricks-andmortar retailers to play.
Here’s to a positive start to 2026.
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