I own and love the black version of this Violet & I bodysuit. It’s the sleeves I think. Last week when Anna the designer was having a Facebook sale I snapped up this blush version and it arrived so fast I could hardly believe it.
It got me thinking about the need to support local designers in such tough retail times, not to mention the fact that Zara has just landed on our shores. I couldn’t see a whiff of the financial crisis hitting home when I re-visted the flagship Melbourne store the other day- it was full, there was a queue for the change room and the tills were running hot.
I ran my own small accessories label for about 6 years and things were ticking over quite nicely until stores like Diva arrived on our shores. It became near impossible to compete with mass produced fast fashion and accessories that were on offer for a fraction of the price. I saw a definitely shift in consciousness from people seeking out local handmade to accepting that even if it breaks, said accessory was only $10 so who cares?
And I’m guilty of it too- since shutting up shop I’ve started to shop at Diva, Lovisa, Colette and the like. How can you resist? Stores like that coupled with Zara and Sportsgirl make on trend looks so affordable, just lets not forget the little guys!
What I’m wearing:
Bodysuit with silk sleeves: Violet & I
Vintage skirt: Episode
Heels: Asos ‘Polly’ heels
Glasses: Chanel
Lips: Gorgeous cosmetics lippy in ‘Precious’