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Interview | Vintage Fashion with Modes and More
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modes and more
Interviews, Natasha Henson

Interview | Vintage Fashion with Modes and More

Vintage is one of my favourite elements of the fashion industry.  Modern style is influenced so much by clothing of a bygone era with current designers taking inspiration from past trends.  I also love hunting out fabulous vintage fashion finds so if you’re looking for a stunning boutique with special and unique vintage pieces, Modes and More in Pimlico, London is the place to visit.

I interviewed Susie, owner of Modes and More to find out why she loves vintage fashion and what is so unique about her vintage boutique.  Take a look:

Give us a little insight into your background.

I have always had an interest in fashion, and after I left university I was long-listed to be Anna Wintours EA when she came to London to run Vogue UK.  Sadly I didn’t get the job and went to work in the city and financial crime sectors.

One weekend, a sexist advert in the Financial Times caught my eye ‘buy your wife a business’; it was for the Gallery of Antique Costume and Textiles. I didn’t buy the business but I did buy a lot of the stock.

Why did you want to start your own vintage shop?

With hindsight, fortunate circumstances helped me make the decision. I used to have a unit at Grays Antique Market in Mayfair, London, and in August 2014 we were severely flooded and out of business for four months. Whilst I was waiting for Grays management to sort out the repairs, I did some leafleting around Pimlico and Westminster and was tipped off by a neighbouring retailer about the premises I now occupy.

What have been your key inspirations?

The challenge of starting a business in a different sector, and trying to make a successful business out of fashion (Net a Porter has shown it can be done).

What has been your most memorable success to date?

A client came in looking for something to wear for her 60th birthday party. Convincing her not to get another little black dress, and instead to wear a wonderful 1960s pink Hartnell cocktail dress trimmed with ostrich feathers.

How would you describe your personal style?

Day style is relaxed, practical and I hope elegant – I need to wear clothes I can rummage through attics in, and footwear that is comfortable enough to wear all day.  Evening wear is a bit more eclectic and elegant.

What is your hope for the future of Modes and More?

That the business grows, we have more happy customers, and to become better known amongst the trade and public.

I’d like to thank Susie for sharing her style insights and career inspirations with us.  Be sure to check out the website or pop into the store to experience a treasure trove of unique vintage fashion.

Interview by: Natasha Henson