Ultra violet

When, why, how did Violet start?

I took a sabbatical from my previous career in fashion retail as I was approaching a milestone birthday, my two children were about to go away to Uni and take on a new job in a new city  and so I felt that I wanted to take stock of my life and think about what I really wanted to do and achieve for the next chapter. I was supposed to enjoy life for a year but after only a couple of months I couldn’t stop thinking about a seed of an idea that I had.  I always felt that as a lover of contemporary luxury fashion myself, there was currently nowhere that could showcase and sell my pre loved pieces in an environment that I myself would like to shop in.  I am a true believer in buying better but buying less and wearing more but I do love shopping and design and following seasonal shapes and trends.  At the time there was no retail outlet where you could browse luxury contemporary label pieces and also have professional style advice – just like you would expect in high end department stores and boutiques.  It was a light bulb moment and I couldn’t stop working through ideas in my head!  I thought that with my career as a personal stylist and my eye for contemporary fashion that I could offer women an alternative to ebay shopping and fast high street fashion.

What is your working mum style?

Obviously it does depend on the industry you work in but most professions now adopt a more informal work wear policy.  It is still important to consider first impressions though and so I do think it is vital to dress true to yourself and show your personality – If you love colour – go for it, if you would never wear a dress or skirt outside of work then invest in great fitting trousers and culottes in different shapes and styles and pair with a selection of smart tops to make a mix and match weekday wardrobe. Don’t forget accessories and a slick of a bright lip – a red lip can transform the tiredest of faces after a long night with a toddler.

What basic items should everyone have in their wardrobe?

Hard to distill this in to one item! I would have to say a well cut suit.  Double breasted jacket with slim cigarette trouser cut at the ankle or wide legs.  The jacket can be paired with jeans, layered over girly dresses or worn with the matching trousers and a slogan tee.  The trousers can be worn with t shirts and sweatshirts and trainers,  or dressed up with a frilled feminine silk shirt and heels for nights out – completely versatile!

What should you be adding to your wardrobe this coming season?

A dress – longer length and patterned – floral or spot or stripes … or all! Wear with trainers / converse for off duty and heels for a night out.

What accessory do you like to add that makes any outfit?

One single cuff or chunky bracelet –the larger the better –  I have a large collection and they are a bit of a signature for me! They look particularly great with a suit and t shirt or a plain jumpsuit.

What item of clothing have you had in your wardrobe the longest that you wear all the time?

A vintage black lightweight cotton Burberry trench coat.  I throw it on over everything – even evening wear. I love it – every woman should own a great trench coat!

What are your current favourite items in Violet?

A Stella McCartney black and gold silk fil coupé jumpsuit – its amazing!

Violet
14 Cheltenham Mount
Harrogate
HG1 1DL

Tel: 01423 568307
www.violetstore.uk