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If you want to stand out from the crowd in an outfit which has the WOW factor, then Katwalk can answer your prayers.
KATWALK
What has changed with you since you were last featured in Vale Life?
Things have been pretty hectic. I have extended the premises as business really picked up. I decided to double the size of the building, so I now have a full room of evening/cruise and prom wear from Pia Michi. These sizes range from size 6 to size 24. Most of Pia Michi dresses are worn by celebrities and are regularly featured in OK magazine. I only stock one dress of each design, so that my customers are assured that no one has the same. There’s nothing worse than buying an outfit for a special occasion from the high street only to see that very same outfit on someone else! Since expanding, I can hold much more stock and can accommodate more customers.
I am also now able to accommodate a few ladies who want to make a day of it and have the premises to themselves. I now have more mother-of- the-bride with sizes up to size 26 and can supply the hats and bags. Upstairs you’ll find the casual section with catwalk collection dresses and also smart casual clothes and cruise wear from classy tops and beautiful evening trousers to match. There are also stunning basques that look great with Jeans and trousers for that special party.
It sounds like you’ve been busy. Really busy.
I’ve even had customers leave at 10pm at night. Choosing clothes can be quite stressful but not here. Customers can browse at their leisure over refreshments and can be assured of honest advice when needed. I would rather people leave with nothing, than something that doesn’t suit them. Even if they didn’t find anything on the first visit, it’s unlikely they don’t on the second or third. Customers always tell me how they have enjoyed my honesty and personal attention, especially the mother-of-thebride and guest as this is such an important decision to make. I want people to say, “wow where did you get that dress, you look amazing”, not “oh my god who sold her that!”
What do your customers require most frequently?
If it’s prom season, then I tend to sell lots of prom dresses as the girls have come to know that no-one will be wearing the same dress and that my prices are more reasonable than the high street. My real passion is the mother-of-the-bride and am often given a photograph of the mother in her outfit on the day as they are so pleased with it. I even go to the church if I have sold lots of outfits for the wedding, as I love to see them all together. Husbands even comment how enjoyable a visit to Katwalk is as they can sit with a cup of tea or glass or beer while poring over a magazine. The wives and girlfriends can then try on in peace, popping in and out for nods of approval from their partners.
Are you offering any new brands?
My new brands are unique. I have spent time sourcing these from around the world to be up to date with the latest designers, including the all new stunning Arrey Kono. Also, my new mother-of-the-bride designs are by Cabotine - beautiful silks that are funky and glamorous. I can’t wait until these arrive. John Charles has fabulous new colours out this year such as platinum, silver and orange. Lime green is going to be a popular colour next year. I wish I could order them all in my size!
And for the curvier ladies?
I now stock up to size 26 evening gowns for mother-of-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom. Customers were ringing me and for larger sizes. I stock up to size 22 in trousers and fabulous tops from Dusk, Frank Usher and Gina Bacconi.
What about accessories?
I have bags to match outfits including the popular Nigel Raymond , silk bags, bags with beautiful crystals and the perfect size day bag with jewellery to match. I also have brand new umbrellas to match any outfit, plus scarves, and silk gloves.
You clearly love what you do
I love that a customer can buy a present for someone, safe in the knowledge that they can return it if not suitable. I offer a free gift wrapping service which adds that special touch. I also love the fact that I have built a good reputation for giving honest advice, providing excellent customer service, all in the strictest confidence. Many of my customers have turned into friends and we often sit with a glass of wine relaxing in the two acres of landscaped gardens that surround the studio. Shopping should be enjoyable and I do my best to make it just that.
Katwalk
Llanharry, Vale of Glamorgan 10 minutes from Cowbridge and 5 minutes from Pontyclun Please phone Helen Pick to make an appointment on 01443 225482 Mobile 07973 463460 helenpick@yahoo.co.uk
www.katwalk.co.uk (arriving soon)
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