Having welcomed John Lewis to Cheltenham, and with The Brewery Quarter bringing even stores like Urban Outfitters and Luke 1977 to the town, Cheltenham’s retail scene boasts enviable big names.
But, Cheltenham’s impressive independents are also perfect for finding unique buys and offer the chance to support local, small businesses.
From pre-loved designer wear and unique brands, to quality footwear and glitzy gowns, SoGlos selects 10 of the best independent fashion shops in Cheltenham.
1. Olive
A contemporary clothing brand with a store nestled in the centre of Cheltenham, Olive stocks an eclectic array of innovative fashion items and accessories for men and women, working closely with a network of independent designers to create unique, quality garments.
2. Vinegar Hill
Don’t be fooled by thinking Vinegar Hill is solely a gift and home emporium, as fashion can be found upstairs, while jewellery and accessories can be found on the ground floor. From footwear, scarves and gloves, to sunglasses and knitwear, there’s plenty of browsing fun to be had.
3. Keith Scarrott
An established Cheltenham store which dates back to 1975 and boasts a devoted cliental, Keith Scarrott Shoes on The Promenade stocks an impressive range of bespoke footwear and handbags, designed right here in Gloucestershire and hand-crafted in Europe, using quality materials.
4. Caroline Charles
Situated in the Montpellier area of Cheltenham, independent boutique Caroline Charles stocks a chic selection of women’s wear, showcasing the latest trends in clothing and accessories.
5. Bodega Womanswear
With two stores located in Worcester and Cheltenham, Bodega Womenswear in The Suffolks offers a beautiful selection of ladies’ clothing and accessories, ranging from casual clothing, shoes and knitwear, to handbags, jewellery and jackets.
6. Mint Dress Agency
Selling designer womenswear and accessories at affordable prices, Mint Dress Agency in The Suffolks area of Cheltenham stocks pre-loved pieces which are still in excellent condition, with brands such as Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Armani and Mulberry lining its rails.
7. Monty Smith
Located in the heart of Cheltenham, Monty Smith is an independent boutique that stocks a wide variety of menswear and ladies’ fashion along with footwear and accessories, offering something for all tastes.
8. Union Project
With a specially curated selection of contemporary men’s clothing, spanning everything from clothing and shoes, to bags and accessories, Cheltenham-based boutique Union Project has an evolving catalogue of brands from across the globe.
9. Boutique 3
A Cotswolds retailer stocking designer fashion, Boutique 3 has an outpost in Cheltenham’s Montpellier area, selling unique items not available on the High Street. Designer names such as Velvet, 360 Sweater and Paul Smith Black can be expected, creating a unique collection for fashionistas.
10. Trapeze
A family-run business, Trapeze has become a Cheltenham institution, expanding into two stores, with each bursting with designer clothing. With an inspiring range of quality brands and styles, the independent shops offer diverse collections for both men and women.
