Caroline James to close
AFTER 36 years serving customers with ladieswear, Valerie Fletcher, the owner of independent ladies’ fashion retailer - Caroline James of Churchgate, Loughborough - is to retire.
The company was founded in 1982 as a picturesque dress shop in Woodhouse Eaves called Giselle by Valerie Fletcher and her close friend Christine Cave (who retired to Devon some years ago), immediately establishing itself at the top end of the market with well-known luxury ladieswear brands.
The company transferred to larger premises in Churchgate, Loughborough in 1995, with a new name Caroline James.
A spokesperson for the company told the Echo: “Caroline James has become synonymous with a choice of daywear, evening and occasion wear, coats and jewellery for the discerning ladies of Charnwood and beyond.
“Valerie’s buying mantra has always been ‘classic with a twist,’ although her customers would probably also describe the Caroline James look as stylish, elegant, chic and occasionally quirky – indeed, very similar to the comments uttered by the ladies who first crossed their door 36 years ago!
“Valerie’s decision to retire follows a fall in 2015 which left her wheelchairbound and unable to participate in the business to the extent she would like.
“She has already received many goodwill messages from customers, all of whom have fond memories of their Caroline James experience.” The business will close at the end of November.