A Shopper's Paradise

‘Anything is possible’ is the boast of a famous Knightsbridge shop and it could equally apply to Clitheroe, where shoppers come eager to pick up something just that little bit different, especially in the run-up to Christmas

- Mairead Mahon

Heather Potts of Smug Fox sources most of her antique and vintage stock from France. ‘I’m really interested in the sustainability aspect,’ she says. ‘Most pieces have a story to tell and deserve another lease of life. Although most things in Smug Fox are French, there are some English things such as the gorgeous London streetlights, topped with Victoria’s crown. People love them as garden lights or even a really stylish lamp in a large room.’

Heather has also provided small props for West End shows and recently sold an Edwardian bakers’ desk, complete with original trays and crumbs to a city design company.

Anne-Louise Brown of Anne-Louise Dress Agency also feels that sustainability is a big factor for today’s shopper. ‘I’ve always championed sustainable fashion but over the 26 years I’ve been open, I’ve noticed more people are showing concern for the environment by rejecting fast fashion,’ she said. ‘I stock items that are less than two years old and in pristine condition and it’s truly amazing to discover just how many items there are out there that fit the bill.

‘A lot of ladies who live in London send me garments and, quite often, the telephone is hot with people ringing to find out more about an item that has just arrived,’ explains Anne-Louise who, as well as having a huge stock of clothes from very high-end designers, including those favoured by royalty, also stocks mid-range clothing and right now, is gearing up for cashmere season.