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A goldmine of classic treasures, at Forever Vintage, Penarth, you’ll always find something distinctive and a bit unusual and with the new season’s stock now in store, you’re sure to find something a bit special for those forthcoming festive occasions.
FOREVER VINTAGE
If you’re looking for clothing that’s superiorly made, that’s one of a kind, at the height of fashion, will save you money and help save the planet, then vintage is for you. We caught up with owner Melanie Rhoden to see why Forever Vintage is going from strength to strength since she opened in 2008..
What can we find at Forever Vintage?
The shop has often been described by customers as a real ‘treasure trove’. We aim to source and provide customers with vintage and antique clothes from bygone eras ranging from Victorian through to 1970’s. The most popular decades have been the 50’s and 60’s. We stock a range of accessories, from antique and vintage bags and purses, jewellery, hats and much more. The shop is also great for lovers of vintage linen, lace and haberdashery items and also collectables.
Who are your customers?
They range from teenagers to ladies in their eighties, female and male. Mini dresses aren’t just for the youngsters, they can look just as good on more mature women over jeans. What woman doesn’t like to play dress up? Better still, dress up with your friends? I have a large dressing area at the back of the shop which is often full of a bunch of friends trying all sorts of things on. Buying clothes should be fun and you come away with something that’s unique and beautifully made
Who shops for vintage clothing?
Anyone who wants to set themselves apart from the mainstream. My customers know that vintage clothing is of better quality because better materials and techniques were used in the past.
Clothes had to last longer as people didn’t have the money to buy new clothing as we do today. There was a lot more done by hand in those days and you’ll find that adding buttons and details were hand stitched as opposed to being done by machinery.
What about ethical reasons?
We’re all concerned about our planet and as vintage clothes have already been used once, by wearing them again, you are recycling them. People who buy vintage don’t contribute to fuel for shopping, energy to produce each item and they are not contributing to pollution from emissions from factories. Also the items are not going into a landfill.
What do you think will be your best sellers this season?
For the Festive season I believe that vintage party dresses and accessories will be the most sought after items. Women will be looking for that unique dress for the Christmas party or a great vintage bag or purse. We also offer a fantastic range of vintage jewellery and hand designed jewellery made from sterling silver and antique beads which are already selling well as gifts. As winter weddings are very popular, I get many women coming in for a unique look – something that cannot be found at chain stores by the thousands. Each garment is one of a kind so yes, all eyes will be on the bride’s gown, but a vintage outfit will also make you stand out from the crowd.
How about male customers?
Yes, men don’t miss out either. As I have frequently been asked to stock ranges of vintage clothing for men, it’s an area that I have been expanding.
Do you offer customers other ways to shop at Forever Vintage?
We offer evenings for private bookings for parties of ten people or more. Women like the idea of the shop opening just for them and a group of friends for a different shopping experience and evening out. It’s great fun to spend time with friends dressing up in vintage clothes as well as purchasing any item they like.
Do you rent outfits?
We rent dresses for very reasonable rates, which is an affordable option. We’re all still watching the pennies even though the economy is picking up but with the rental option, you can still look stunning for less.
At the time of going to press, owner Melanie Rhoden had a bout of ill health and, regrettably is having to close Forever Vintage. I’m sure you will agree that this will be a great loss to Penarth. I’m sure that, along with us, you will want to wish Melanie well. |
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