It's perhaps never been so important to support local businesses and Cheltenham has some of the best independent fashion stores in Gloucestershire.
With the advice of experienced founders and their teams, pick out your next look that's sure to have everyone asking, 'where did you get that gorgeous outfit?'
From magnificent menswear and womenswear with the wow factor, to some of the coolest streetwear available in the county, there's plenty of chic options to wake up your wardrobe.
The Union Project
Curating clothing from brands with sustainability at heart, The Union Project opened in 2013 and prides itself on a welcoming environment for like-minded shoppers to browse and find their next fashion favourite.
Located in the town centre in Cambray Place, it has branched out to womenswear as well as the menswear that established its reputation. Putting emphasis on investing in a less changeable wardrobe and embracing the change to slow fashion, this store is a must-visit for eco-conscious shoppers looking for trendy and modern streetwear.
Beatrice von Tresckow
Expect vibrant, colourful and eclectic pieces at Beatrice von Tresckow on Montpellier Walk. Offering unique designs for those who aren't afraid to stand out and empowering those who want to add pops of eye-catching shades to their wardrobes, it's not for the faint hearted.
Independently owned by textile designer Beatrice herself, many of the garments are carefully made in her workshop in India — where she was raised and of which the designs are heavily inspired. A champion of slow fashion, the brand puts sustainability at the forefront of its production, creating clothing that will last, with the aim to contribute to a more eco-friendly future for the fashion industry.
Caroline Charles
With stores located across the country and past clients including the late Diana Princess of Wales and Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson, the Caroline Charles store nestles comfortably within the stylish Montpellier Courtyard, accompanied by a host of other independent boutiques.
For those looking for that statement piece for a special occasion, the brand is famous for its bold patterns, colours and elegant silhouettes that are sure to complement anyone's wardrobe.
James of Montpellier
For a dose of class, sophistication and excellent customer service, visit James of Montpellier in the Montpellier Courtyard; the self-described 'last bastion of high-quality menswear in Cheltenham'. With an exceedingly experienced team of knowledgeable menswear experts, shoppers are sure to leave having truly sharpened up their style game.
Private appointments can be booked with the team for a bespoke experience to ensure every requirement is met. Showcasing top of the range pieces from jeans and T-shirts to full three-piece suits, it's a one-stop shop — they also offer a selection of socks and shoes to get you kitted out from head to toe.
MIMMO Studios
This stunning store was founded by a creative pair of young female entrepreneurs, each with a vision to tackle the climate crisis through practical solutions. MIMMO Studios was born from a friendship with the shared viewpoint that the retail industry is broken.
With everything from cashmere cardigans to linen dresses, MIMMO Studios carries an impressive collection of independent brands, making it a hot spot for distinctive pieces you'd be hard pressed to find elsewhere. Doing things differently, the store doesn't discount its items or hold sales and buys from small, local suppliers with the aim of selling out — meaning each product is a special hidden gem.
The Famous on the Prom
The Famous on the Prom is a menswear haven. Popular for weddings, shoppers can choose from a wide range of modern and classic tweeds from checked to patterned with lightweight designer suit styles in any colour combination for dapper grooms and groomsmen.
Although the store pays tribute to The Famous of Cheltenham through its name, it has no affiliation with the previous owners who ceased trading in-store more than a decade ago.
Vinegar Hill
Celebrating more than 26 years of trading, family-run Vinegar Hill stocks a range of beautiful clothing, as well as homeware and gifts, carefully curated to form a truly unique selection for customers to browse to their heart's content.
With 14 stores operating across the country, the Cheltenham store sits proudly on The Promenade and is jam-packed with a collection of Boho-style designs including Kimonos and floral scarves that will complement any outfit and are sure to attract admiration at any special occasion.
Horace Barton & Son
Located in Regent Street, Horace Barton & Son is a must for shoppers with specific needs. Offering adjustment services including an experienced alterations service for items bought in store and a custom insole fitting service to help secure that sought after perfect fit, its extensive formal wear collection is also available to hire for weddings, proms and other black-tie events — so you can look your best for less.
With new collections arriving each season, the shop is armed with essentials for all weathers. Its unique ski division opens each October and offers all the kit you could possibly need to hit the slopes, including a ski boot fitting centre and battery-heated socks!
Slate Clothing
A collection of independent womenswear boutiques, Slate Clothing was founded by Gilly Aspey in 2012. Its store in Montpellier showcases some of the best hand-picked garments available for the modern woman.
The store emphasises the importance of personalised buying and browsing, making exceptional customer service an absolute priority. Upgrade your retail therapy experience with a personal shopping session and discover what works best for your own individual style alongside the dedicated team in-store.
Silks of Cheltenham
A must-visit for those looking for luxury occasionwear, has everything needed to wow guests at your next event. Featuring special selections for a day at the races and bridalwear — you'll be sure to impress your new family members with curated mother of the bride and mother of the groom collections.
A true destination for anyone planning the wedding of their dreams, The Silks Wedding Network is the perfect guide to the best that Cheltenham and the south west has to offer. Plus, Silks of Cheltenham offers a complimentary hour-long personal shopping experience to take your visit to the next level.
Sandra Dee
Proud to go the extra mile for its customers, you won't want to say goodbye to Sandra Dee after all... This lingerie specialist, with decades of experience under its belt, has a passionate team delivering a personalised service. A visit to the store, located in Montpellier, will leave you feeling pampered after a warm welcome and a truly personalised retail experience.
Stocking an array of top lingerie brands as well as stylish swimwear and nightwear, the team also offers a renowned measuring service that is free to attend with no appointment required.
Blue Women's Clothing
Celebrating individual style, a trip to Blue Women's Clothing invites you to experiment with your adventurous side. Based in Queen's Circus, the independent boutique offers a welcome break from run-of-the-mill high street fashion.
Founded and run by a talented mother and daughter duo, the store's ethos is to cater for all ages and encourage women to try out new things to find their signature style. The store and its pieces are progressive, creative and most importantly, independent!
