Ready to start shopping, mums? We catch up on all the latest from a handful of Scotland’s top occasionwear boutiques and couturiers. Here’s to new dresses, new digs and new designer lines
Mia Bella
With so many gorgeous special occasion outfits gracing the store, it’s a wonder Christina Sigerson, owner of Glasgow-based Mia Bella, can bring herself to pick a favourite. But we have to admit, Couture Club’s style 5G254 (below), £POA, is something pretty special.
“It’s a perfect twist of timelessness and flair,” she argues. “When the formalities are over and the jacket comes off, there’s no need to relinquish the beautiful detail of the collar, because it’s attached to the dress! The colour, too, is so fresh and crisp, and complements most complexions and wedding themes.”
Rinaldo Girasoli
Moving is stressful enough at the best of times, but during a pandemic? It’s a whole other ball game. Hats off to Paisley couturier Rinaldo Girasoli, who packed his (fabulous) bags and headed off to pastures new, in amongst the chaos.
“My studio is now based in the Old Embroidery Mill in Abbey Mill Business Centre,” he says. “It’s so inspiring to be working in such a prestigious building and to be part of the heritage of the town. The close-up view of the iconic Anchor One Mill and the Hamills waterfall can be seen from the main car park, adding to the atmosphere of it all. I’m hoping to showcase a new collection at the Mile End Mill – it has such a luxurious events space.”
Catwalk
Veni Infantino, it seems, can do no wrong. The British-born designer has taken her rich, Sicilian heritage and turned it into an aesthetic that Scottish boutiques, like Falkirk’s Catwalk, can’t get enough of.
“We’re so excited about her autumn line,” shares Louise Brown. “It’s due to arrive from August. The colour palette is divine, the attention to detail is stunning and there are some amazing headpieces, dyed exactly to match.”
Pear Tree Hat Hire
Long before the rest of us suddenly found ourselves adapting to working from home, one millinery expert was already thriving from her humble abode.
“My company started in one room in my Insch farmhouse and now it’s expanded into three. One for the stock, one for sewing, and another to meet clients,” laughs Jayne Davidson of burgeoning Aberdeenshire business, Pear Tree Hat Hire. “It’s the most idyllic, private location to come and browse – I’d never want to work anywhere else.”
The setting’s not the only selling point: Jayne’s house is bursting at the seams with covetable headpieces, and she can also make you matching jewellery and bags!
