So, for now I'm just going to keep sharing some pieces purchased lately : )
Today is this rather spiffing 1950s skirt which is in absolutely perfect condition (the cotton is so crisp i wouldn't be surprised if it had never been worn)
This skirt comes from the retailer Richard shops, although it has no makers label. Richard shops designed their own brand garments as well as selling pieces by other companies. Richard shops was a well known department store with the brand first started way back in 1927 by Jack Lyons. The company finally ceased trading in 1999 after being bought out by Arcadia and most stores changed to those within the Arcadia group.
Richard shops Preston c.1962
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rpsmithbarney/4439858182/
I also have a Horrockses dress with a Richard shops retailer label in it (the same label as this) which demonstrates they were one of the many department stores that stocked Horrockses dresses in the 50s.
I'm actually pretty interested by Richard shops as it's only since buying vintage that I've come across the department store despite the fact it was still operating in my lifetime. Was it mostly a Northern operation? And what sort of price level were they at? (I'm guessing due to their buy out by Allders at one point it was somewhat similar to them). Anyway I'd love to know more if anyone has any info!
What a fabulously fun skirt! I'm drawn to unique/novelty prints, too, and would definitely have stopped and taken notice if I'd spotted this delightful piece, too.
ReplyDeleteWishing you a lovely, relaxing weekend,
Jessica
I remember Richards shops as independent stores when I was a teen (in the 80s!) Sheffield used to have quite a big one. I'd describe them as more like Next is now- mainstream, quality, affordable but not particularly groundbreaking! They always seemed a bit old lady- but everything does when you're 15 and your Mum shops there!!!!
ReplyDeleteNovelty print skirts are the best, and this one is stunning :)
ReplyDeleteR xx
I remember visiting Richard shops in the 80s in Scarborough and Brighton, can't remember where they were in Scarborough but in Brighton they were on Western road just a few doors from where Primark is now. I've got an old RS carrier bag from the late 70s or early 80s, if you would like it let me know.
ReplyDeleteRichard shops were fairly inexpensive in the 50s 60s, but I think Horrockses was a bit more upmarket
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and very inspiring posts and blog! We share the same passion so let's follow each other!:)
ReplyDeletePlease take a look at my blog and let me know if you wanna be fashion friends!
Thanks everyone for the help on Richard shops, I really appreciate it. And great to know about its position on the high street. When I asked my family about it they didn't seem to remember one local to us at all, so i was at a bit of a sticking point as to what the retailer was like. Interesting that there was one in Brighton in particular I'm going to look up where that is as so far that is the only Southern one I've heard of!
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