After scrutinising countless entries, we’re thrilled to announce the shortlist for the Boutique Star Awards 2022. We’ve been overwhelmed by the high standard of entries this year and would like to thank each and every one of you who has taken part. Turn to page 12 to see who’s made the list.
When we first launched the awards in 2019, we wanted it to be a celebration of our amazing readers – and that remains at the very heart of the competition. While the pandemic meant we had to take a three-year break, we’re excited to be back with an even bigger competition and winners’ party.
To say it’s been a tough couple of years for small businesses would be an understatement. What with a pandemic, Brexit, soaring energy prices and now a cost of living crisis, succeeding in the notoriously tough retail sector is a challenge to say the very least. But what’s clear from your entries is that indies are constantly evolving to overcome testing times – and many are coming out even stronger on the other side.
This year’s Boutique Star Awards winners’ party will take place on Tuesday 8 November at London’s May Fair Hotel (a limited number of tickets are on sale now, turn to page 11 for details).
Elsewhere in this issue we nod to Sustainable September with a special feature on alternative fabrics. From recycled polyester and bamboo to a new completely compostable thermoplastic used for footwear, turn to pages 44-45 for a guide to fashion’s favourite ethical materials.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for buying inspiration, don’t miss our cosy homewares and accessories edit on page 27-29 and pick of brilliant short order brands on 34-35.
We also share the details of our first free webinar taking place next month in collaboration with live stream specialist ELISA. This must-attend event will offer invaluable insight for retailers looking to harness the rising popularity of live stream shopping on social media. Turn to page 40 to find out more.
Gemma Ward, Editor
Follow us on Instagram @boutique.magazine
The September 2022 issue of Boutique magazine is out now.