Maybe it's the change in clocks and the official start of British Summer Time, but this week I'm finally getting round to things I've been thinking of for ages, starting with this new series! For ages now I've wanted to write a regular monthly newsletter full of things I've been up to, things (and people) who have inspired me and some thoughts and views I'm having. I think what's stopped me is the fear that no one will be interested... but I've come to the conclusion that I'll enjoy writing it even if they're not (although naturally 'm hoping they will!).
So welcome to the first edition, and if you'd like this to drop into your inbox each month, click here and sign up to the newsletter :)
Inspiration infused with hope
Last month I was fortunate enough to see Mary Portas speak in person, at the very first Fashion Marketing Live event in London. I've been a huge fan of Mary for, well, practically forever, and have always found her inspiring in terms of her extensive experience, her energy and how she broke boundaries with new ideas back in the 90s as Creative Director at Harvey Nicholls. More recently I enjoy her newsletter- The Portas POV, which I highy recommend signing up to.
At the event I was expecting insights into the worlds of fashion and retail of course but I don't think anyone in that room expected Mary's talk to be so moving, so spiritual and so hopeful. At a time when the world seems to be imploding, Mary reminded us that we can make an impact every day with small acts of love and kindness, and those will grow. We can refuse to accept that the world has to be this way and we need to return to connection and community. "Hope is a muscle that needs to be used" she said (when I saw her talk for the second time that week at Retail Roar), and I plan on giving it a very good work out from now on!
If you've not read Mary's latest book, 'I Shop Therefore I Am', I can highly recommend it. I'll also be adding, 'A New Earth' by Eckhart Tolle to this month's reading list, further to her recommendation.
Who runs the world?
One of the absolute highlights of Fashion Marketing Live (aside from the incredible line up of speakers, still buzzing!), was being in a room surrounded by female fashion founders- the energy was palpable! I reconnected with people I'd met previously, made new friends and just generally felt like I'd been plugged in and recharged! There was a real diversity of brands but what they all had in common was that they came from a place of passion, of enthusiasm and the belief that we can make a difference with what we put out into the world. And that's a powerful thing.
Fuelled by this I'm excited to say that we're now a proud member of Buy Women Built. who shine a light on brilliant brands built by women. As they explain, "every purchase creates a stronger, fairer economy and every story inspires the next generation to see what's possible". I can't wait to get involved.
The month in shoes
Despite the ever-changing weather this month, I loved giving my Celine courts a trip out for Fashion Marketing Live. I designed them to be the perfect heel for running around the city in so it was good to put it to the test (which they passed with flying colours!). I wore the taupe suede and I think they go with literally everything in my wardrobe!
I was back in London again a few days later for Bridal Week London, and wore my trusty Ava boots as it was a little chilly. A highlight was one of the models telling me she loved my boots- the shape, the colour, the heel- it was as if she'd totally got what I'm all about!
April is set to be a busy one as it's not just the brand's birthday, it's my birthday too so make sure you're signed up for the mailing list and keep an eye out for some fabulous surprises!
Until next month,
Rachel xx