Where individuality is key

Apr 19 2008 by Francesca Craggs, The Journal

IF you’re looking to update your spring/summer wardrobe, but want something different from the usual high-street brands, why not head out of town?

From designer boutiques to bespoke jewellery makers, you’ll find some real hidden fashion gems across the region.

Mother-and-daughter team Eileen and Louise Hulme are celebrating a successful first year in business as the new owners of Panache ladies’ fashion and accessories boutique in Ponteland.

The new spring and summer collections have just arrived, with many new labels in stock. You’ll also find stunning occasion wear by top Irish designer Michael H.

As one of the leading mother-of- the-bride specialists in the region, Panache has extended its range to cater for every occasion. Whether it’s a wedding, race day or cruise, you’re certain to find the perfect outfit. Its collection by Jorli features soft shades and metallic fabrics, while designs by Michaela Louisa offer something a little more contemporary. Hats and fascinators are available in a rainbow of colours, and there is also a range of handmade jewellery and footwear.

Panache, 34 Merton Road, Ponteland, tel: (01661) 824100 www.panachefashions.co.uk

Penny Plain, based in Washington, has launched its brand new spring/ summer collection. The range is packed with fantastic new designs, fabulous prints and quality fabrics in an eclectic range of vibrant summer colours.

If you’re planning a summer holiday in warmer climes, then look no further than Penny Plain. It offers a range of womenswear in light- weight, breathable fabrics designed with maximum comfort in mind.

Collections include delicate cotton voile tops, blouses, dresses and skirts in an array of styles and colours. All are available in sizes 10-26.

Calico trousers, crops and shorts can be mixed and matched with its soft cotton T-shirts available in 15 vibrant colours.

Another new addition is an impressive collection of Lotus shoes and co-ordinating handbags – the perfect finishing touch to any Penny Plain outfit.

Following a recent change in ownership, Penny Plain has been able to reduce costs and are delighted to pass these savings on to the customer. To celebrate the launch of the new collection, you can benefit from 20% off your next order* placed within the next 14 days when you quote S8J1. Terms and conditions apply. Tel: 0844 557-6010 www.pennyplain.co.uk

Country Life is one of the oldest established ladies’ clothing outlets in Corbridge. Located on Middle Street, the current owners took over the business just prior to the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, necessitating a change of direction from outdoor clothing to ladies separates and casual wear.

The business is continually evolving, bringing in top-quality brands from across Europe. This season it has introduced Heteroclite from France, Dino Moda, Doris Streich and Zaffiri from Germany, and UK favourites Aria and She’s Crazy, not forgetting immensely-popular German brands like Sommermann, Verse and Michele Trousers. Tel: (01434) 633245.

From one of the oldest fashion boutiques in Corbridge to one of the newest. Successful online men’s clothing brand, Jack Russell, has chosen the Northumberland village to open its first shop.

The Jack Russell shop offers a range of classic men’s clothing with the emphasis firmly on quality and a sense of fun. The clothes are all manufactured in small batches in Europe, nothing from the Far East. The knitwear is knitted using yarn spun in Scotland and Yorkshire, jersey is knitted in Portugal and traditional tailoring skills across Europe are used to create the woven garments. Only the camel hair for the eponymous cardigan had to be sourced further afield.

The shop also offers a selection of handcrafted shoes from Loake in Northampton, and a fast and reliable no-obligation ordering service from the entire Loake range. Tel: (01434) 634517, www.jackrussellclothing.com

Specialising in the creation, restoration and repair of jewellery, The Jewellery Workshop/Cluster Bespoke Jewellery is a two part company based in Whitley Bay.

The Jewellery Workshop offers a wide variety of fashion jewellery including the popular charm bracelets from Pandora Jewellery and a selection of Monili Silver. Otazu pieces are also available as well as second-hand items. The workshop itself boasts a team of skilled jewellers, with more than 40 years’ experience in the trade. Jewellery can be repaired and restored to pristine condition, in-house.

Clusters Bespoke Jewellery allows its customers the chance to follow the design and creation process of their very own individual item of jewellery. Its expert team of jewellers have the knowledge, ability and experience to create a beautifully handcrafted piece from its customer’s own ideas and desires. Tel: (0191) 252-6800.