Independent boutiques offer something unique compared to chain stores and a customer experience that is personal and informative.
Often run by dedicated teams, who devote their working lives to offering a first class service, these cherished stores are there to be enjoyed.
Kent has some truly special fashion stores which offer clientele fashion pieces which make them stand out from the crowd.
Revivals, Canterbury
You never know what treasures you will find at this gem of a vintage store.
It opened in 1988 and was run by Debbie Barwick, who sadly passed away in September 2021.
She wanted the shop to continue so she left it to the current owner Zoe Brear, who is keeping the legacy alive.
“Debbie she said 'I can't save myself but I can save my shop'. She was, the most incredible person,” says Zoe.
Search “Revivals, Canterbury” on Facebook.
Positive Retail, Ramsgate
More than just a clothes store, Positive Retail in Ramsgate is a community hub with a vibrant retail space.
Former high street buying director Anna Woods set up the business in 2021 to inject compassion into the fashion industry.
With 35 per cent of all garments not getting sold, they resell select items which are already in circulation - and people can also sell their items direct to the store.
See www.positive-retail.com/
Ruskin Clothing, Whitstable
Sustainable and stylish clothing for men and women is available online and in the Whitstable store.
Founded in 2012, Ruskin sits in the heart of the seaside town surrounded by independent shops.
They work with small and emerging brands as well as more established ones.
Mother and daughter team, Shelly and Isobel fill the shelves with only the most fabulous seasonal offerings.
ruskinclothing.co.uk
Kitch, Tunbridge Wells,
Signature elegant clothing includes dresses, beach kaftans, cover-ups and tunics, all inspired by the Mediterranean and Greek islands.
At Kitch they take pride in helping customers feel good in their choices and walk out feeling confident.
The owner Charlotte Newman is always on the look out for the next best thing.
kitchclothing.co.uk
The Whiting Post, Whitstable
Visit the trio of independent shops, all on Harbour Street, which sell pieces that embrace relaxed seaside living.
From vintage inspired quirky one off's head to The Whiting Post, for bohemian chic see the little sister store, FIG, for dresses in silks and organzas as well as delicious candles, succulents and homewares.
The original store, is the popular The Clothes Horse, which stocks linens and natural loose easy simple clothing as well as jewellery and Italian accessories.
thewhitingpost.com
The Clever Dresser, Sevenoaks
Sophie Carson has worked in high end fashion for more than 25 years.
Having worked for the likes of Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges, she understands the trade, from the fashion floor upwards.
The owner of The Clever Dresser Boutique puts her prowess to good use, pulling strong on-trend collections each season.
Working with some of the most prestigious brands in the world, including Alice + Olivia, Bella Dahl, Birgette Herskind, Chinti & Parker, Diana von Furstenberg, Isabel Marant Étoile and Penelope Chilvers.
thecleverdresser.com/
La Manica, Sevenoaks
La Manica is an independent fashion boutique in Bligh's Meadow Sevenoaks.
There is a carefully curated collection of exclusive and unique pieces to flatter all shapes and sizes.
The majority of the brands are available in Sizes six to 20.
Growing up in Paris with its bohemian markets, the owner Donatella, better known as Dona, had the seeds of fashion was planted in her at an early age.
Her boutique offers a relaxing setting to browse and for those wanting a more personalised experience, we can offer bespoke style advice.
lamanica.co.uk.
Bod and Ted, Tunbridge Wells
This family owned and run boutique in Tunbridge Wells specialises in personal shopping experiences with plenty well-established brands on offer.
Having established in 2008 by mother and daughter team Yvonne and Sophie, they drive straight in with no previous retail or business experience - just a love of fashion.
The boutique soon became known as the place to find something individual.
bodandted.co.uk.
Lotties Loft, Maidstone
For all your ladies wear, bags, jewellery, home accessories and gifts, Lotties Loft is the place to go.
The boutique store in Maidstone is the perfect place to pick up a unique gift or stock up on luxury cashmere, linen and silk.
lottiesloftboutique.com.
Ivy May, Herne Bay
This independent shop opened in the seaside town of Herne Bay in 2019.
It is run by Kim and Mark, who are partners in business and in life.
Kim’s grandmother was born in Herne Bay and lived in Whitstable, and Mark’s Grandmother, May, was born and lived in the Isle of Man.
Kim's love for fashion accessories and interior decoration is the driving force behind Ivy May’s product range and customer service. This means that they provide customers with only the highest quality of styles and fabrics at a cost effective price.
Search “Ivy May Fashion and Home” on Facebook.
