Boutique owner sustains success
THE owner of a sustainable boutique has celebrated her first anniversary in business.
Dress Cheshire, based on New Road, Prestbury, opened its pink doors last November to offer the village designer fashion.
Christine Colbert, owner and Prestbury resident, spotted a niche in the market for what she saw as sustainable shopping that put community and charity at the heart of its business model, whilst offering a luxury boutique shopping experience.
The 53-year-old said: “The Dress concept is good for everyone and our planet, with recycling, re-using and sustainability at the heart of the business.
Customers feel good when they buy from Dress and feel great when they sell too, especially as most of them are prepared to pop the loose change from their sales in the charity partner’s box – Caudwell Children.”
With over 650 registered members selling their designer clothing and accessories, existing and new customers take home half of their item’s sale price. Any unsold stock (within an agreed timeframe) is either collected by its owner or donated to East Cheshire Hospice, which has raised hundreds of pounds in sales from donated items.
Christine, who also co-owns the House marketing agency in
Macclesfield, added: “We have evolved the age-old dress agency concept with one main difference – a luxury branded, shopping experience.
“We believe our customers are enjoying this renewed sense of belonging in the community and they want to spend more time in the village centre, which is fantastic news and makes us feel great.”
The shop has initiated some joint business promotions with other Prestbury village traders, including competitions with The Bridge Hotel, The Coast Restaurant and Bar and The Salon to drive business and footfall to the village.