Would You Buy Nike Or Look For A Trainer Brand Like Alexander Smith?

Smaller Doesn’t Mean More Ethical It Means More Unknowns When It Comes To Fashion

Dora Black

2026-04-04T12:54:00.0000000 2026-04-04T19:05:25.1670000

When I look for a new pair of sneakers or trainers I am always conscious of two things, manufacturing ethics and style and quality.

Companies like Nike (and there are many others like them) even though the have great sports personalities like Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz for tennis, Michael Jordan and Le Bron James for Basketball, Music and Lifestyle Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar, and Soccer stars Christian Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe (the 27 year legend partnership with Golf’s Tiger Woods did end in 2024) they continue to hit the headlines for bad business behaviour.

They are reported as selling over 800 million shoes every year (26 pairs a second globally) which is perhaps why the ethical and sustainable spotlight always hits brands like Nike.

It’s been a long time since the Nike Sweatshop Scandal reported in the global media back in the 1990s. They’ve had a lot of time to put things right and yet factory workers in Cambodia producing for Nike as recently as April last year reported working 76 hours per week (propublica.org) forced to work 7 days a week and after 12 years on the job still earning a base salary of $204 a month, less than a dollar an hour.

For Nike lovers and wearers around the world and the celebrities and sporting heroes who help the brand promote the recent article is a very sobering read about slave wages, forced overtime and arbitrary abuse.

Instead in the past I have purchased from more socially conscious brands like Veja, All Birds and Patagonia as these guys all publish full supply chain transparency, are certified B Corp and or Fair Trade and explicitly commit to living wages.

I like to wear a sneaker that is perhaps a little off the beaten track and not instantly recognisable or perhaps more over looked. As a designer I like to be a leader when it comes to my fashion choices rather than a follower. On the look out for something I’d never heard of I discovered I like the style of Alexander Smith, an Italian (actually begun in London) footwear brand that emerged in the mid 2010. It’s a premium lifestyle sneaker label rather than a performance sports brand like Nike.

They are made in Italy they say but the likelihood is they do use unpublished outsourced manufacturing. The problem with shopping a much smaller boutique brand like Alexander Smith there is no strong documentation on where every shoe is made and under what labour conditions.

The ethics question for consumers is tricky when for a brand like Nike for example the public scrutiny is very high and for a smaller under the radar brand like Alexander Smith it’s very low. For Nike proven issues are well documented for Alexander Smith they are unknown.

My logic is I would always prefer to buy something more obscure. The reasoning smaller companies are less likely to exploit than big ones and if they do it’s on a much smaller scale. The larger a brand gets the more they are forced to be transparent. So the honest bottom line is Alexander Smith does not have strong ethical practises published and when comparing and considering purchasing it is certain it’s more unknown than better.

The things I have loved about my Alexander Smith shoes;

Lovely quality, really well made and have lasted well. Like Golden Goose they are mainly made of leather so easy to brush up and I do love the minimalist chunky designs and the neutral colour palettes making them very easy to style.

If you want to buy a pair they are sold in many boutique fashion retailers, department stores and online luxury fashion platforms. I actually found mine from an Italian store on EBay Grandi Nino Calzature.com for a steal but you can also shop directly on the Alexander Smith website.

The shipping was included and they arrived packed beautifully so would definitely recommend this shoe store in Italy to shop with. The service was fantastic.

The prices range for a basic flat top shoe from £120.00 up to £260 for premium and new styles like the Alexander Smith Eclipse Low Trainers.

I cannot guarantee you are shopping ethically with Alexander Smith. I did my research before purchasing and could find very little about them published online good or bad.

They do state their shoes are “Made in Italy” where rules are much stricter than Asia regarding exploitation and some lines are marked as “eco lines” so fingers crossed the brand does genuinely care about delivering on this side of their business to consumers.

If you are shopping Alexander Smith I’d recommend you size down. I bought my first pair in my size and they had to be returned for a smaller pair.

I’d welcome anyone from the brand or with more information about Alexander Smith’s ethical footprint to comment here. Love the shoes, would purchase again just would like to know more about the brand values and wider mission.

If You Know, You Know: The Quiet Luxury Brands from Paris to New York

Indie Luxury List of French and American brands you’ve never heard of YET

Dora Black

2026-03-19T08:27:00.0000000 2026-03-19T09:16:34.9770000

As a designer I love watching fashion and wearing it too.

For those who truly love fashion there has been a shift to quiet luxury, the new wave of shoppers in search of timeless classics that don’t age or date made from fabrics that endure. There’s been an upsurge in fashionistas shopping American brands like Khaite Toteme, the Row, and Proenza Schouler. Calvin Klein carved the path for a minimalist simple luxury silhouette although in recent years they have lost their niche moving into fragrance and homeware, all things to all people leaving room for relative newcomers to step into their shoes not just in America although there are a few you may want to check out but in France too, the capital of fashion for me.

QUIET LUXURY: FRENCH VS. AMERICAN

I have ranked from accessible to high luxury

These are my favourite FRENCH BRANDS;

If you are in search of a much better H&M or COS on a serious budget check out this amazing French budget brand.

1. Promod

Price: € (accessible)
 Aesthetic: Everyday Parisian basics

* Mission & Ethos: демокratized fashion—affordable, trend-conscious staples

* Ethics: Limited transparency; working toward lower-impact materials

* Production: Primarily overseas (Asia, North Africa)

* Target Audience: Young professionals / high-street shoppers seeking “French girl” ease

Quiet luxury note: Not true luxury—more “entry-level Parisian style.”

This brand is my favourite brand at the moment, it sits right in the best value space for quality and price.

2. Sézane

Price: €€
 Aesthetic: Romantic, vintage-inspired Parisian

* Mission: Blend timeless design with responsible production

* Ethics: B Corp certified; uses eco-conscious materials and charitable giving

* Production: Europe (Portugal, Italy) + some global sourcing

* Reality Check: Rated “Not Good Enough” by some watchdogs due to transparency gaps

* Target Audience: Conscious millennials wanting elevated everyday pieces

Quiet luxury note: The gateway brand into “ethical chic.”

3. Musier Paris

Price: €€
 Aesthetic: Ultra-feminine, influencer-led Paris style

* Mission: Small-batch, curated wardrobe staples

* Ethics: Limited public reporting; small-scale production reduces overstock

* Production: Mostly Europe (France/Italy small ateliers)

* Target Audience: Fashion-forward, Instagram-native consumers

Quiet luxury note: “Soft luxury”—more about exclusivity than heritage.

Soeur is a relative new comer to me even though they were founded in 2008 by French sisters Domitille and Angélique Brion but if you love Isabel Marant it’s a very similar aesthetic but better value.

4. Soeur

Price: €€–€€€
 Aesthetic: Androgynous, minimalist Parisian

* Mission: Timeless, functional wardrobe pieces

* Ethics: Increasing focus on sustainable fabrics and slower production

* Production: Arabic & Mediterranean ateliers

* Target Audience: Creative professionals, understated dressers

Quiet luxury note: One of the closest to true quiet luxury in the mid-tier.

Isabel Marant is a personal favourite I buy second hand. The price point usually out of reach for me but as a “textile”

girl the fabrics are usually second to none. And the timeless clothes you can wear and wear. It’s a brand that really truly endures.

5. Isabel Marant

Price: €€€€
 Aesthetic: Effortless “cool girl” Parisian

* Mission: Relaxed luxury with a global bohemian influence

* Ethics: Moving toward circular fashion (including vintage/resale lines)

* Production: Europe + global luxury supply chain

* Target Audience: High-income, fashion-conscious women

Quiet luxury note: Recognizable—but still logo-light and lifestyle-driven.

AMERICAN BRANDS

1. Tibi

Price: €€–€€€
 Aesthetic: Smart minimalism

* Mission: “Creative pragmatism” — versatile wardrobes

* Ethics: Increasing transparency; focus on longevity over trend cycles

* Production: China, Italy, and U.S.

* Target Audience: Working professionals, design-conscious minimalists

Quiet luxury note: Function-first luxury.

2. Veronica Beard

Price: €€–€€€
 Aesthetic: Polished, modern tailoring

* Mission: Empower women through versatile wardrobe systems

* Ethics: Limited sustainability disclosures

* Production: Global manufacturing

* Target Audience: Corporate / polished lifestyle consumers

Quiet luxury note: “Boardroom luxury.”

3. Proenza Schouler

Price: €€€€
 Aesthetic: Artistic, downtown New York

* Mission: Craft + innovation in modern womenswear

* Ethics: Gradual sustainability initiatives (materials, supply chain)

* Production: Italy & global luxury hubs

* Target Audience: Fashion insiders, collectors

Quiet luxury note: Intellectual luxury—less obvious, more conceptual.

4. Khaite

Price: €€€€
 Aesthetic: Sculptural, sensual minimalism

* Mission: Timeless femininity through craftsmanship

* Ethics: Limited public reporting; emphasis on quality longevity

* Production: Italy & U.S.

* Target Audience: High-net-worth, trend-aware minimalists

Quiet luxury note: The “new money” uniform.

5. Kallmeyer

Price: €€€€
 Aesthetic: Tailored, gender-fluid luxury

* Mission: Redefine power dressing through inclusivity

* Ethics: Small-scale production, mindful sourcing

* Production: New York & small global ateliers

* Target Audience: Creative executives, art-world clientele

Quiet luxury note: Niche, insider label.

6. The Row

Price: €€€€€ (ultra luxury)
Aesthetic: Extreme minimalism

* Mission: Perfect materials, perfect cut, no noise

* Ethics: Ultra-discreet; emphasis on craftsmanship and longevity

* Production: Italy, France, U.S.

* Target Audience: Ultra-high-net-worth, stealth wealth

Quiet luxury note: The definition of quiet luxury.

MY KEY TAKEAWAYS

French Quiet Luxury

* Rooted in effortless femininity + heritage

* More romantic, wearable, and lifestyle-driven

* Stronger visible sustainability narratives (e.g. Sézane)

American Quiet Luxury

* Rooted in minimalism + power dressing

* More structured, architectural, and investment-focused

* Less marketing around ethics, more around craft + exclusivity

The Hot Potato is a very stylish Crime Caper with Costumes By Howard Burden and Sets By Tim Hutchinson

Stylish Films Are The Ones I Really Love and The Hot Potato Checks The Style Box Like Sweet...

Dora Black

2026-03-16T16:29:00.0000000 2026-03-16T17:25:36.6470000

I love Ray Winstone, he reminds me of my Dad, especially in Hot Potato where he is wearing the same suede fronted zip up cardigan, highly desired in the late 60’s and early seventies when the film is set. I reviewed a movie 13 over 10 years ago when a few of us, we first started writing here, what we like, what we don’t. I haven’t written about very many films, when I look back I’ve done more washing powder and fashion than entertainment but I caught a film again with Ray Winstone in it I loved, so here I am sharing my movie review, the morning after the Oscars 2026.

There are so many fantastic Ray Winstone films, I am a big fan of the actor. Nil By Mouth 1997 is an amazing movie and then the highly acclaimed Sexy Beast that won Ben Kingsley an academy award nomination for best supporting actor.

I also loved Compulsion where Winstone plays the chauffeur Flowers opposite the amazing Parminda Nagra best known for her leading role in Bend It Like Beckham opposite Kiera Knightly and long running role as Dr. Neela Rasgotra in the NBC American TV drama series ER.

The Hot Potato is probably one that has slipped under the radar, it had for me.

2012 written and directed by Tim Lewison the film stars Winstone along side Jack Huston, Colm Meaney, and Lois Winstone. With a brilliant smaller part for Louise Rednapp better known as a model and wag ex wife of Jamie Rednapp playing opposite Winstone as his long suffering and very pretty wife.

The film gets pummelled pretty badly online but personally I think the reviews are harsh.

It’s a period piece, set in the 1960’s the costumes, cars and laid back style is perfect and the film script is actually very funny. Winstone plays a local scrap metal dealer, not super successful but likeable who gets himself mixed up in a crime syndicate as he tries to help his secretary’s boyfriend Danny (Jack Huston) move a lump of Uranium, (the hot potato) that comes into his possession by accident after an explosion at a ministry of defence facility in 1969 London.

Like all unlikely stories and usually great movies this one is based on a true story which adds to the charm of the film as Kenny, Winstone, Danny and his Girlfriend Carole played brilliantly and hilariously by Lois Winstone, (Ray Winstone’s daughter) embark on an endeavour to sell something they initially have no idea what it is to the highest bidder.

What ensues is a cat and mouse chase around Europe in a beautiful old red MK 2 3.4 litre jaguar goodie and baddie style. A funny heist movie with real charm and some very witty lines delivered with perfect comic timing from the ensemble cast.

If you like a 1960’s London (incompetent) gangster vibe film drawing so many references from the time it will feel super familiar to Boomers and Gen X.

Kudos to the costume designer on the film Howard Burden.

Howard Burden's work on the film focused on the "high fashion spy chic" of the early 1960s, designed to contrast with the "low rent drag" of the era, creating a specific aesthetic for the 1969-set crime caper. Burden worked alongside production designer Tim Hutchinson to establish the film's visual style and this was a brilliant collaboration and made the film for me. It’s a very stylish funny film. An easy watch, a car chase escapade full of mischief. If you like an Ealing comedy with real style on the side this is one to check out.

Super Dry Clothing A mid Priced Brand not really that great value these days

The perils of shopping fashion online - When clothes look so good in the pictures but not so...

Dora Black

2026-01-21T17:14:00.0000000 2026-01-21T17:40:07.9130000

Does a big bad shopping mistake you cannot return make you need to rant?

I used to really love super dry clothing 10 years ago. I work in fashion. I should be up to speed with whats happening across high st brands. I was at Pitti Uomo in Florence recently, a massive fashion trade show and I saw the Superdrug stand as they launched their Autumn winter 2026 menswear with the same preppy, heritage and outdoor influences we expect from Superdry. To be fair I was impressed with the offering, particularly the sustainability pitch and goals to be net zero by 2030.

So I bought a coat online, in the sale when I got back. The grim weather at the beginning of January compelled the purchase, my legs and bum were cold and wet in the ski type jackets I had and the only long coat I have, a riding coat doesn’t have a hood so I went in search of something to solve these problems. There are a lot of padded long coats around but when I saw the long maxi hooded puffer coat reduced down to £116 from £170 I thought this was a great deal. I didn’t expect it to be the quality of a moncler or Canada goose, or even lesser known Bosideng the Chinese artic brand British designer Kim Jones from Dior menswear has joined or marimekko the Finnish house known for its creative collaboration with high st brand known for it’s better than average quality Uniqlo. I had even considered investing in a mountaineering and hiking brand from Colorado, USA Holubar or Holzweiler from Oslo Norway where sustainability and animal welfare is at the heart of all they do, I love this brand but on this occasion my budget didn’t stretch that far and although I looked I couldn’t find one secondhand.

When my new coat arrived I remembered why I don’t buy fast fashion anymore, yeah I know superdry is supposed to be a bit better than say a Shein, Zara or Primark but it’s still the High St. The coat is made from recycled polyester but that’s where the style vs quality vs design vs ethics stop. I put it on and the garment was mainstream beige.

I bought a size 8 and the coat was so massive it would fit a size 14. It absolutely drowned me except the hood, where I wanted something over sized so it stays on, it was cut really small so kept falling down even when it wasn’t windy.

For me the coat felt like it had come from Tesco not Super dry; the finish, the stitching the zippers very basic, when I think about my perception of the brands and what they offer.

It got me thinking about shopping mistakes and how we make them, how a brand can create a picture in our minds. Like I said I haven’t bought anything from Superdry for probably 10 years, maybe even 15 and then the one positive interaction at the trade show put them back in my orbit, on my radar. A need, a quick browse online, some cute marketing pictures and bam I was sold, only to discover the dream, the illusion was shattered when the garment arrived.

I was on a budget, didn’t want to drop the £500 for the coat quality I like so you might be thinking what do you expect for £120. And yes you’d be right. This rant is more about my own shopping drivers and a reminder for me why I prefer to shop secondhand preloved. The urgency of the cold weather and needing a better coat, my interaction at the trade show and great marketing made me buy something that ended up being a mistake. I should have known better from experience.

To sum up, the coat was a good deal if you’ve been into the Superdry shop, tried it on and decided you liked it at £170. They are now on sale at £115. However if you are making an impulse purchase because of the weather based on fondly remembering the “Superdry” of days gone by, probably along with Jack Wills, Abercrombie and Fitch, Gap, Old Navy plus a whole load of other preppy brands I used to support but haven’t shopped with for over a decade, it’s not the same as it used to be, then again maybe I am not the same either.

The moral of the story, find what you like and stick to it and if you can’t afford it, don’t convince yourself it’ll be fine, it won’t. Save up instead or find what you need secondhand.

In this case the fault was mine not Superdry’s, the coat arrived exactly the coat I purchased, it was my expectation created by clever images and not enough recent in store experience that caused the disappointment.

Pantherella Socks The Only Christmas Stocking I Want

Fine British Socks For Men And Women From Leicester Made In UK

Dora Black

2025-12-27T08:30:00.0000000 2025-12-27T09:51:40.2400000

There’s something so great about the socks, hats, gloves, slippers you get traditionally once a year, let me qualify here, not the ones other people buy as gifts, unless they know you well and are prepared to spend what most would consider an exorbitant amount of money, £50 for a pair of socks, £120 for a pull on beanie. It’s the couple of pairs of cashmere made in UK luxury I treat myself to once a year.

I have a small, relatively unknown to even most in my locale, sock maker, the Midlands in the UK historically renowned for it’s hosiery factories, most now deserted and abandoned, the luxury sock market replaced by the desire for cheap Chinese alternatives. It’s called Pantherella. And every year I take a deep breath and treat myself to a couple of pairs of the most divine socks money can buy.

It’s not the colours, or patterns, Christmas tree adorned, frogs in Santa Hats, or images conjured on Christmas stockings that appeal. Plain colours in luxurious, wool, cashmere, silk or cotton combinations, that slide on, fit perfectly, look and feel fantastic on, keep your feet sweat free and temperature regulated and wear like walking barefoot on a very expensive Persian carpet is why they can command the big bucks and have done so for almost 100 years.

Founded by Louis Goldschmidt in 1937 Pantherella socks began in Leicester, England, in 1937 as Midland Hosiery Mill. His idea was to create fine, lightweight, seamless socks when only bulky ones existed. The company was renamed in 1945and became known for its luxury English craftsmanship, using high-quality yarns, hand-finishing, and seamless toes, maintaining production in Leicester and becoming the prestigious brand stocked globally it is today. Pantherella gained prestige, stocked by premium stores like Harrods in the 1940s, and expanded internationally because of unrivalled craftsmanship. Their signature features like fine-linked toe seams, reinforced heels, and use of world-class yarns (Merino, Silk, Cashmere) is why they command the prices they charge for practically perfect socks. The firm changed hands in 2001 becoming part of HJ Hall's group continuing under family management (5th generation sock maker Justin Hall).

"Provenance, Design & Quality" is the continued philosophy manufacturing from the original Leicester factory, upholding its reputation for luxury "Fine English Socks". 

What Makes Pantherella Socks So Special

1. Seamless Toes: Ensures superior comfort.

2. Finest Yarns: Uses premium materials like Merino wool, silk, and cashmere.

3. Hand-Finished: Each pair undergoes extensive hand-finishing for quality control.

4. Made in England: Production remains in Leicester, upholding a strong heritage

The only downside of investing in Made in UK luxury, best in the world when it comes to fine English socks you can’t just throw them in the washing machine, they need to be carefully hand washed, however natural fibres do not hold or emit odour so you’ll find they don’t need washing anywhere near as often as other cheaper options.

The only other thing to bear in mind when looking after expensive socks and getting the most out of them. Keep toenails groomed and short or they will cut through the fine yarns and make a hole which unless you are a darning expert are difficult to repair.

Pantherella acquired John Scot Nichol sock brand founded in Leicester in the 1930s, a few years back. So you can also find Scot Nichol socks at Pantherella. I haven’t tried them so cannot tell you how they compare. Pantherella have also collaborated with other design houses like interiors brand Sanderson on a range of socks.

What I can assure you of is when you wear Pantherella socks, you cannot change to other more inferior socks, especially in the winter. They are warm, comfortable, sweat and smell resistant, fire retardant and feel under foot like you are walking on air. If you have experienced walking on heated tiles floors, think about that feeling and double it in Panterella socks.

I wear mine in bed on freezing nights, carry a pair in bag for on a flight, down my wellies, inside my Chelsea boots, the only time I don’t wear them is with trainers, working out, but I do wear them for yoga cool down so extremely versatile sock lovers and for me worth every penny.

Milos Cafe In Market Harborough Make The Very Best Smoothies

Trying to cut down the dairy Milos offer the best plant based options in Market Harborough

Dora Black

2025-12-08T13:25:00.0000000 2025-12-08T14:35:17.9730000

There aren’t very many healthy option places in Market Harboroughto be fair. Natures Pantry on Church st didn’t make it even though I thought the offering was delicious. However Milo’s make the very best no diary smoothies if that is what you are into, along with an equally wonderful plant based full English and I am reliably informed by someone who loves their coffee and buys one every day, their coffee is pretty spectacular too. can’t tell you anymore than that as I am not a coffee drinker myself, I can say the person recommending has had more cups of coffee than I’ve had hot dinners and goes on and on about coffee so it’s a strong recommendation.

The place is cute. Individual and quirky. The staff won’t be your friend immediately, they are not gushy like that, more efficient, busy, get the job done polite but keep going become a regular and you’ll definitely see their appreciation shine through, they just don’t give it to everyone. Reserved, polite, direct you can expect.

Located down a difficult to find alley between Heaven at Home the interiors shop, directly across the street from my favourite shop in Harborough Frank Gilbert’s (I am weird like that) and not sure what’s on the other side up on the left from Space NK and Browns Hair Salon. They have extended their tables and chairs to the main st in the last 12 months, so if you want more people watching and high st action this adds value. I also heard on the grapevine they have another location at the business Center next to the fairground between the town centre and the Langton Garden Centre but haven’t been there yet.

If you want healthier options Milos is your best bet. Like I said it’s definitely my 1st choice for a homemade smoothie and their avocado on toast is better than anywhere else. Plan to spend £15 for breakfast and a drink. Same price as everywhere else but I’d say better quality ingredients like much better bread and fresher produce than other places.

Thanks Milos.

p.s if you need a studio space to hire they have a lovely one available and also cater parties too, very affordably I might add. Basically built on a backbone of really great cooking. And they always have a copy of The Whistle, Rutland and Leicestershire lifestyle magazine knocking around which I like having a browse through. It’s that kind of community hub and you can have your smoothies with dairy if you want to, of course. Still the same delicious fresh fruit base.

Love Pret A Manger, Shout Out To The Team in Market Harborough

Meal deal at Pret for £6.00 for a trial period at participating shops

Dora Black

2025-11-27T11:48:00.0000000 2025-11-29T09:58:51.9330000

I’m in Pret A Manger a couple of times a week in Market Harborough and although I don’t know anyone by name, except Felicity, Fel to her friends I feel like part of the furniture.

The welcome is always friendly. The faces usually the same, whether it’s the hard working boss, she’s always going 10 to the dozen or the man who’s always happy to make extra soup, if you are happy to wait 5 minutes, or the host of other servers behind the counter.

I’ve seen them welcome regulars by names, and 9 times out of 10 have a friendly bit of banter to offer whilst serving.

I usually order the same thing, in the winter the soup. It’s a toss up between the hearty mushroom risotto. A meal in and of it’s self or the souper tomato made with fresh chucks of my favourite veg fruit. Don’t think Heinz of which I am a fan, this is much much better.

I went off piste the other day, the sandwiches had been raided, I was late and picked up a Falafel and humour salad which to be honest I wasn’t excited about. But when I doused it in fresh lemon provided and tipped the delicious salad dressing all over I found myself really enjoying every bite. There was crunch from cucumbers and red cabbage age slaw, filling element from healthy quinoa and the hummus somehow had not made the mixed leaves soggy, a miracle.

At £6.00 (a pound more than a sandwich) it was worth it. And I don’t even really like falafel but this was moist and tasty, not dry and rock solid which it does have a tendency to be if not made with love.

If you are in Market Harborough and in need of a really healthy lunch I’d really recommend Pret.

I am a fan and often chose Pret for a quick sandwich or soup wherever I am in the county but the staff in Market Harborough really make this one stand out. They always go over and above for me and it seems the case across the board as I stand and wait for soup made to order.

Soup and a sandwich will cost you £10,

Soup and a salad £11. Although I have noticed they have started doing a meal deal to include a drink. Crisps and a sandwich which is a bit of a saving at £7.00.

It’s for a trial period and only at participating Prets but it is happening at Market Harborough so get down there while it’s on.

I read a less than favourable snoop on here a few weeks ago so wanted to give a little balance and share my experience. I guess it just shows we are all different and everyone’s experience is different too.

Must Visit The Wine Shed: Your Local Wine Bar and Shop Offering Tastings, Live Music, and More

Love supporting local hospitality experts Krzysztof and Charlotte at The Wine Shed Market Harborough

Dora Black

2025-10-12T15:58:00.0000000 2025-10-13T10:58:37.2570000

I knew Krzysztof from the Waterside Inn on the Canel, Union Wharf market harborough where he was always super friendly and the service consistenty good so when I heard on the grape wine he had opened a new place with his partner Charlotte I immediately planned to go and say hello and support their new venture.

So where is the Wine Shed exactly. Well if you know where Ginger Kate, the consignment shop is it's down the alley right next door, before you get to the Garage Bakehouse or go around the  corner to Bebooted and Bagel and Griff. I think there used to be a hairdressers down there, another location for Browns.

So when we visited it was clear The Wine Shed has rapidly become a cherished local establishment, offering a unique combination of a wine bar and specialty shop. It was pretty busy for a Tuesday lunchtime. Spearheaded by local hospitality experts and partners Krzysztof and Charlotte, this venue serves as a perfect blend of a retail and social space, designed to cater to both connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

When we popped in a few tables were taken outside which considering it was quite chilly the wine list is attracting the customers.The Wine Shed operates on two levels, each dedicated to enriching your wine experience. The ground floor houses an inviting wine bar, with tables set up in the web of cosy rooms that weave away from the main area, while the upstairs area is transformed into a sophisticated wine shop. Here’s what you can expect from each space:

Downstairs Wine Bar: As we stepped inside, we were greeted with the warm, welcoming atmosphere we'd come to expect from Krzysztof. It's here that patrons can grab a table and a bottle of your favourite tipple at lunchtime or unwind after a long day, there were a few groups of ladies enjoying a meet up with friends and a bottle of proscecco mid week but I could easily see it being the perfect place for a first date. The bar offers a wide array of wines, the list is pretty extensive sourced both locally and internationally. The host is knowledgable and happy to share his wisdom and passion. The selection changes seasonally, ensuring there's always something new to taste. Small plates and tapas-style dishes are available to complement your drink, featuring local ingredients that highlight the region's flavours. That said don't expect a lunch or dinner menu. It's a cheese board, a charcuterie board, olives that kind of thing. very well done to compliment the wines on offer but if you're starving I'd suggest eating elsewhere first or coming here early before dinner.

I can see the Upstairs Wine Shop being buzzing, especially as it gets closer to Christmas: For those looking to take a piece of The Wine Shed home, the upstairs wine shop offers a modern architectural space for the enthusiast, connoiseur or someone who just enjoys a weekend bottle of plonk. Whether you're a newbie seeking guidance or a seasoned enthusiast looking to add to your collection, Krzysztof and Charlotte are on hand to provide expert advice. The shop also features wine accessories and gifts, making it a great spot to find a present for any occasion.

Opening Hours and Accessibility

The Wine Shed is open from Tuesday to Sunday, welcoming guests from 11 AM to 11 PM. The venue remains closed on Mondays, giving the team a well-deserved rest.

And The Wine Shed is not just about wine sales,  it's a vibrant community hub, like I said we went on a Tuesday lunchtime and the place was quite busy, a great vibe. Krzysztof and Charlotte are passionate about creating interactive experiences and regularly host events that encourage social interaction and wine education including

Monthly wine tastings, these sessions are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about various wines, with guided tastings led by experts. Each session focuses on different themes, from regional focuses to explorations of specific grape varieties. You do have to pay but they are very reasonable and great fun judging by the videos posted online.

Live Music Nights Every Friday, The Wine Shed comes alive with the sounds of local musicians. These evenings provide a lively backdrop to your wine experience and support talented local artists.

Specialty Events Keep an eye out for seasonal events and special gatherings, such as wine pairing dinners, meet-the-maker nights, holiday-themed festivities and singles dating nights which sound like an absolute hoot.

By combining a high-quality wine offering with a strong community focus, Krzysztof and Charlotte have brought charm and variety to the local area hospitality offering and added a little style of the 1980's wine bar reinvented. . It's not just a place to buy or drink wine; it's a venue where locals can gather, share experiences, and create memories. A bit more stylishly than a night down the pub (which we alos enjoy) The commitment of Krzysztof and Charlotte to supporting local products and talents only strengthens the bond between the business and the community, making The Wine Shed a pivotal part of the local hospitality scene.

I would recommend popping this new venue on your radar whether you're looking to explore exciting wines, enjoy a night out with live music, or simply chat with fellow wine lovers, The Wine Shed promises a welcoming and enriching experience for all.

We loved it, done a wonderful job with the interior and we will be back soon for sure.

Fastich Xpress in Leicester is my go to tailor for anything I can’t do myself

Expert tailoring services in Leicester City Centre

Dora Black

2025-08-19T10:41:00.0000000 2025-08-19T11:39:33.7330000

I absolutely love this business. I can see and know how to thread and use a sewing machine but you know when you have to take a lining out, or remove a sleeve from a jacket, shorten it and get it back in I much prefer to use experts like the guys at Fastich.

They are my go to place for anything tricky. I am always greeted with a smile and a bit of friendly banter even if I haven’t been for ages, always remembered and the service is always the same, fast and incredible and the bill always less than I’d expect for the job. It’s not unusual to have to fight to pay, something so rare in this day and age. They’ll say “Oh don’t worry about that” and I’ll have to remind them they are a business and not working for free. It’s just the kind of people they are. An absolute pleasure to deal with.

These guys, two brothers with decades of experience who’ll tell you tailoring is in their blood can have a jacket or pair of trousers deconstructed and put back together in a matter of hours and don’t think it’s got to be made of fabric, they have the needles and the skills to deal with leather and suede too.

Max and his brother will always welcome you with a smile. They’ll give you their honest straightforward opinion of what can be achieved, in my experience usually a miracle in super quick time for a better than you’d ever expect price.

Cannot recommend this small Leicester based business more highly. The work speaks for itself.

I hope everyone supports. You cannot find this level of skill in every town and city. Leicester is lucky to have them.

Left To Draw Studios artists paradise in Market Harborough

A haven for independent artists to sell and a community hub to create

Dora Black

2025-08-17T07:24:00.0000000 2025-08-20T16:14:19.7800000

Had the pleasure of meeting local artist and left hander hence the name of Left to Draw studios in Market Harborough, Stacey Barthorpe and discover this amazing community art studio situated in the picturesque setting on the canal where you can sit and paint or draw to your hearts content overlooking the water and be inspired seeing the swans fly in and gracefully land all whilst cool air drafts in through the loft windows of the converted and restored waterfront buildings which interestingly was a schoolhouse built in 1614, it served as an educational facility until 1892 so it’s quite fitting that 5% of all original art sales are donated to local primary schools.

With government art education budgets being slashed it was heart warming to see a community business working hard to inspire and give back offering all kinds of classes and events to encourage us to pick up a paint brush or have a go at sculpture or ceramics.

When we visited there were a couple of families enjoying time together working on projects and with parents at a loss what to do to engage kids during the summer holidays what is offered at Left to Draw Studios gives kids of different ages and adults too something to while away a few hours and share together.

The space was an atelier packed with an eclectic mix of art, candles, jewellery, rugs, even clothing, hand painted T shirts and even what looked like hand made shoes so if you like to support independent creatives this is a great place to pick up a lovely gift you are not going to find elsewhere as well as selling easels and other artists supplies.

There’s a cafe too which we enjoyed. Freshly brewed barista style coffee on tap and various flavours of ice cream to enjoy in crispy waffle cones.

Downstairs is the Waterfront Pub and restaurant where we had enjoyed lunch overlooking the canal but were very happy we wandered upstairs to have a nosey and discover and support this local treasure where creatives from all over UK can sell their work.

Hope Macaulay BBC Our Lives Series 9 the Social Knitwork

If you missed the Social Knitwork you can watch again on catch up

Dora Black

2025-07-15T07:15:00.0000000 2025-07-17T15:35:10.8330000

Open Air is an incredible store pop up space I’ve actually been to at 8302 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles. CA, 90069. I have visited the Pacific Design Center for work on more than one occasion and Melrose is not far away. Open air is a concept store that has hosted everyone from independent designers to Nike inside their stone like space brought to life and transformed by the designers and brands they host.

I caught the end of the program by mistake, I will go back and watch the whole thing on I player as I was excited to see the BBC helping an independent artist and designer doing things differently in Northern Ireland. Using some recycled and sustainable yarns sourced in India she has harnessed a workforce of old fashioned hand knitters to produce chunky knit cardigans, dresses, bralets oversized hippy like garments in stripy colourways reminiscent of the 1970’s striped tank tops all the rage except heavier.

I was struck by the choice to go to Los Angeles to promote them where the sun always shines and the need for a merino or alpaca chunky knit over your bikini is unlikely but hey the evenings are cool, the women skinny and it made for great exciting anything is possible content for the BBC.

I don’t know how many hand knitted cardigans and jumpers Hope sold in LA where we saw a lot of trying on and sharing of images and videos by influencers and a few stylists blagging the £500 a piece jumpers for free for their “NBA” “NFL” clients. Nobody pays for anything in Los Angeles. It’s the promotional capital of the world where a few haves meet a lot more have nots but hey That’s Hollywood.

That all aside what Hope Macaulay is doing is absolutely fantastic. Engaging a group of mainly women in Northern Ireland to make her very unique multi coloured garments and then creating a spin off business to allow consumers to have a go at making their own selling knitting kits and brightly coloured wools through Hope’s Yarns.

She is also making complimentary T shirts using sustainable cottons produced using 50% less water than regular cotton production and customised denim garments with whimsical wool patchwork applique.

Who’s the customer? maybe the Hayley Paige bride, a girl who can afford £500 for one bright statement piece, girly and fun.

I don’t see anyone over the age of 25 putting on a chunky knit bralet at £206 each myself and I wouldn’t wear a piece myself, too bulky for a curvy girl and too expensive for a piece so out there distinctive and noticeable as fashion in the USA especially moves towards minimalist design and quiet luxury. Hope Maccauley’s garments are not quiet in anyway but perhaps she is reaching a much younger audience with her fun whimsical sweater. I noticed on Instagram young gorgeous influencers like Tomma Hagenow from Belgium wearing one of Hope Macauley’s sweaters, a sweet chunky white with a pale pink appliqué heart, very cute indeed on the blonde 20 something styled with her bike and Starbucks on her pastel inspired feed.

Not sure if this was a paid promo or if Tomma is a customer, it didn’t say.

All in all I think it is fantastic what Hope Macauley is doing and I wish her all the best. I absolutely love it she is encouraging a younger audience to invest in their textiles and the people that are making the garments, each garment comes with a label telling the customer who made their custom garment with love. She has also adopted a business model where garments are knitted as they are ordered which significantly reduces over production and waste.

I am very happy to see the BBC lifting up an independent female in light of the recent controversy’s over the Hoyo film, Gaza How to survive a war zone, and the Gregg Wallace debacle both messes I believe we are not getting the full picture on but that’s another snoop altogether.

I am looking forward to watching the whole documentary The social Knitwork start to finish and am so encouraged by what knitwear designer Hope Macaulay has achieved thus far. Kudos to her for changing the way a new audience see clothing and I absolutely applaud her ethics and goals for the future.

Waitrose Essential White Fabric Stain Remover Powder does work and all round better than Vanish

Undisclosed fragrances are probably the most harmful of all

Dora Black

2025-07-12T06:23:00.0000000 2025-07-12T06:57:21.5430000

My friends and family consider me a bit of a Mrs Hinch or Martha Stewart when it comes to doing the washing or top tips on stain removal and cleaning in general. I keep and use old teabags, give them a try when it comes to cleaning the oven and a bottle of Coca Cola left in your loo over night will probably stop you drinking it when you see what it can do to bring your toilet bowl back to like new condition.

I always check to see what’s in a cleaning product before I buy it. In the case of Waitrose essential whitening powder, its 30% Oxygen-based bleaching agents; 5% Non-ionic surfactants, Anionic surfactants, Zeolites; Enzymes, Optical brighteners, Perfumes.

Surfactants you are going to find in all laundry detergents to be fair, non ionic are better than anionic. They are the grease fighting chemicals that dissolve stains and allow them to drain away. Most companies don’t disclose what they are using and many are petrochemical based. I like this Waitrose product because it doesn’t contain any chlorine bleach, it’s vegan, check your bleach if you buy it, scarily chlorine bleach is still tested on animals, I know, hideous, why I avoid it all costs. But don’t be led down the garden path either by big brands like Ecover, owned by SC Johnson a corporate giant. They may be plant based but many cleaning and laundry products could be greenwashing as the alternative to animal testing is land grabbing for palm oil. Again palm oil in the ingredients list is rarely disclosed.

Bad for the environment stuff is hard to avoid as a consumer so I try to use as little as possible of these kind of products. I can’t do without laundry detergent but I pass on all other cleaning products. I find hot water the solution for most issues, baking soda, white vinegar are all an eco cleaner’s best friend. Like I

mentioned you’ll be surprised what an old teabag can do on your oven or even your windows.

When it comes to white towels, white sheets, and getting yellow sweat marks, the most stubborn of stains from white fabric the Waitrose white fabric stain remover comes out on top to me. And it’s pretty cheap to at £2.95 for a tub.

You don’t need much. I only use half a scoop for a full laundry load and it’ll deal with fake tan and foundation make up stains, two notoriously difficult stains to lift.

A quarter of a scoop in a dirty sock soak, grass stains, blood, tea, coffee or wine in a bucket over night and your clothes linen will be returned to white and the best thing of all the optical brightened used don’t leave the horrible blue hue you find left by other competing cleaning and laundry detergent products.

Waitrose Essential Fabric Softener only on special occasions

I am with the growing number of people saying no to fabric softener except for woollens washed...

Dora Black

2025-07-11T10:15:00.0000000 2025-07-11T13:49:20.7170000

If you’ve been reading my snoops you probably already know just how bad fabric softener is; not only for your washing machine but for your clothes and linens as well. I NEVER put fabric softener in my washing machine

Fabric softener ruins machines with build up overtime, they create huge mold and mildew problems in your washing machine, and almost all the fabric softeners on the market are made with some type of synthetic wax, fat or animal fat plus chemicals that when they go back into the environment through the dirty water the environmental impact is terrible.

For textile lovers like me, fabric softeners will ruin your clothes with use over time. So if you like wearing and investing in good quality fabric don’t listen to those dreamy lenor or comfort commercials. Fabric softeners consist of many undeniably bad for the environment chemicals, stuff you wouldn’t want anywhere near your skin and are mostly fragrance based. Worried about odour on your clothes you cannot shift choose eco fabrics like Lyocell or Tencel made from Eucalytus trees known for their odour eating properties instead of more well known synthetics, long carbon chains that won’t bio degrade like viscose or polyester. Also baking soda in your wash has wonderful odour combatting properties.

In the South of England some people argue that limestone and high mineral content increases the need for fabric softener, hard water makes fabric stiffer after washing so they need to use fabric softener it the wash however there are plenty of alternatives available like popping a scoop of baking soda in with your laundry or a cap full of white vinegar. You’ll be amazed at the result. And if you live in the North where the water supply comes rivers and reservoirs fed by rain water with low mineral content so no excuses.

So after all of that you are wondering why I have a bottle of Waitrose essential fabric conditioner under my sink? Which honestly comes out very rarely. I had this one half used for over a year.

I use it for hand washing of woollens only as it does help them recover after bobbling into more like new condition.

I chose this one from Waitrose for several reasons, the main one this fabric conditioner avoids ingredients like petroleum products, optical brighteners, enzymes, and animal by-products, all of which are be harmful to the environment. Specifically, the absence of petroleum products and synthetic dyes significantly reduces the risk of pollution.

This conditioner is cruelty free avoiding testing on animals and the packaging is 100% recycled.

The Waitrose essential fabric conditioner is also concentrated which means needing to use less and the bottle lasts a lot longer over more washes.

It’s also biodegradable meaning the product breaks down naturally and safely in the environment, minimizing and limiting long-term pollution impact.

I bought a litre for less than two quid. They’ve upped the size now to a litre and a half for £2.95 (75 washes) so still a good deal compared to less environmentally friendly big brand options.

If you have to buy fabric softener I say get this one.

Glow Up BBC 3 Reality opportunity for make up artists

Show showcasing MUA talent and giving a break into the creative industry

Dora Black

2025-05-19T15:07:00.0000000 2025-05-19T17:27:29.9500000

Living the dream has never been harder, talent make up artists with a talent and the passion to succeed find themselves either working for free, shadowing someone already in the in club, stuck on a retail counter doing free makeovers for survival or resigning themselves to wedding make up, the only time anyone is happy to pay a professional for make up services.

The world of fashion runways and photo shoots, editorial shoots and the top photographers, celebrity hair stylists and super models is about as accessible as front row seats at the BAFTAs unless you have nepotism on your side or you get the luckiest of breaks in what for most is a closed shop industry, that calls from a Rolodex of industry insiders.

Enter stage left the wonderful Val Garland make up artist to the stars and the big brands who with her side kick Dominic Sinner out the contestants selected from thousands of applicants through their paces.

Now in it’s 7th season can you believe it, the show is hosted by super model Leomie Anderson who took over from Maya Jama season 5, who took over from Stacey Dooley season 3.

It’s a typical elimination format; each week contestants face a technical and creative challenge. After the technical challenge two contestants are placed in red chairs with a 15 minute disadvantage for the longer creative challenge.

After the creative challenge the contestants who don’t “beat the seat” end up facing off against each other in a 15 minute purely technical make up challenge using identical twin models and the losing contestant goes home.

The winner of the show is crowned Britains Next Make Up star and receives a contract worth an undisclosed amount from Wall to Wall Media part of Warner Bros. Production Ltd, to kick start their career, basically an in. The BBC don’t disclose what the contract is worth but I have watched season 2 winner Ophelia Liu go from strength to strength in the industry since her impressive win in 2020. It was Ophelia’s creative talent that got me hooked on the show. I didn’t watch season 1.

I watched the first episode of season 7 and we got to meet the 10 people selected to take part this year. And saw a talented MUA Joe from Wales go home when his “Floating eyeliner” or double winged eyeliner; where one line is tightlined along the lash line of the upper lid and the second line sits above, floating with a gap in between, failed to impress the judges.

When you see Val Garland, seasoned make up artist and judge, with her “Ding Dong” catch phrase seal of approval, do the demo she makes it look so easy.

The best things about the show. Number 1 Val Garland, she’s warm, she’s kind, she’s a genuine expert and she definitely gives the impression she wants every person selected to take part to be successful. This show isn’t about shock exits, humiliation and or making a fool of anyone. It’s about the work and what is delivered on the day on a level playing field environment. You do get nerves and sideline commentary as things go wrong or right but at the end of the day it is all about the work.

In the first episode we saw contestants follow a technical brief from Mua Isamaya FFrench for a fashion show runway presentation of fashion designer Harri, catapulted into super stardom status when he dressed Sam Smith in an inflatable suit for the Brits in 2023. Personally I didn’t get it, there again it’s art and clearly loads of people did.

The show’s make up included a technical application of a prosthetic to cover the brow, a task that separated the field and left Ailish and Rahuel in the red chairs.

Rahuel escaped the “Face Off” elimination producing a look the judges loved even with a 15 time penalty and Ailish managed to survive with her Optic bright blue floating eyeliner challenge, sending Joe home, showing how exciting the format can be even in the early stages.

It’s hard to predict at this stage who the super talent is this year, the Ophelia Lui of season 7 - no “ding dings” as yet from Val Garland. If you like make up, fashion, business, creative industry or just enjoy seeing people going for a dream it’s super authentic TV I LOVE watching and following.

UK Best Post Office Is In Market Harborough

Friendly consistent professional excellence

Dora Black

2025-04-28T13:43:00.0000000 2025-04-30T08:50:04.9670000

There is no disputing the Post Office is a business that has some difficulties of late. And when I read the mission statement “an anchor for UK communities for centuries” that encompasses some 11,500 independent businesses I couldn’t help thinking bloody hell what happened to “The Post Office” that beacon of safety and security, premium bonds, and a friendly trusted face behind the counter bringing comfort and assurance and easy straightforward access to our money, savings and services.

I think we take the post office and the people that work there a bit for granted. I know I used to. Until the post office scandal and the itv dramatization that followed “Mr. Bates versus the Post Office” I didn’t even understand Royal Mail and the Post Office are two Completely separate businesses and Post Offices across the UK are independently owned and run franchises which is perhaps why you can go in one Post Office and be greeted with a cheerful welcome and efficient service and go in another and the tasks they don’t perform everyday like for example currency exchange, banking a cheque or some

of the post offices internal services like Drop and go the staff don’t have a clue.

Not so at the Post Office in Market Harborough and I use a lot of different post offices all over the place, I am always shipping something. Market Harborough Post office is run by Mick and team if there was an award for the best Post Office in the UK this would be the winner if it was up to me.

Market Harborough is typically an old fashioned Midlands based market town like so many others across the UK and aside from it being voted three years in a row as “Best Places To Live In The UK” in the Sunday Times, (the Judges said that Market Harborough has "a fine selection of independent shops, upmarket chains and a market that has been going strong for more than 800 years.)

The post office situated on Adam and Eve Street I use a lot. I could go to any post office as I actually don’t live in Harborough anymore, I choose to go and support this business because of the experience plain and simple.

I have NEVER had poor service or encountered anymore in a bad mood. The jokes are really good and the sarcasm and irony you get with no extra change.

Whatever you need to do Mick is always there, unless for a couple of weeks a year he’s in some far off place like exploring Macapichu, Knowledgable like a post office service encyclopedia always happy and available to help his customers or colleagues in equal measure.

If you are the type where you never notice the little things it probably doesn’t matter which Post Office you use, probably the closest and most convenient.

But when the service is as entertaining and as good as Market Harborougj post office trust me people will travel.

Etsy one stop shop for sewers and crafters

Supporting designers, designs and shopping independently.

Dora Black

2025-04-22T07:55:00.0000000 2025-04-22T15:20:50.4430000

I am a seamstress and pattern cutter so at work or not I am always making things. Etsy has become the go to haberdashery where you can find everything craft. I used to have to spend hours watching home shopping to find the one unusual item I needed, pins, thimbles, skeins of silk, I even found someone selling an old embroidery ring on there and a darning block or darning mushroom.

Literally anything you can think of in an old fashioned haberdashery you’ll find on Etsy. It’s like the best of a massive market place but for individual creative people so I’ve found the community of sellers to be so kind and grateful for your business. They know it’s hard fought for and won and I’ve found they are a thankful bunch of sellers which makes shopping on Etsy an added pleasure.

A few years ago I saw a Kiini crochet bikini worn by Yolanda Hadid Tamra Judge on the real housewives of orange country reality TV show that when I did some research there was a massive controversy over the design and the designer. She was a Brazilian Maria Solange Ferrarini fighting for her designs so I commissioned a bikini via Etsy. The Kiini crochet bikini cost 💲 $185 online. I paid $90 for mine custom made and it’s absolutely beautiful.

I sent her my measurements and I cut a pattern from a Tommy Hilfiger bikini I already had that fit me perfectly, Maria’s advice, I picked all the colours from a bunch of bikinis she showed me and then she made me the most beautiful crochet bikini, a one off custom bikini all the way from

Brazil. It was an amazing feeling when it arrived, I tried it on and it fit perfectly. It was like Dior or Westwood had made it for me. It was amazing to feel like together we were going against the massive wave of commercialism and the drive to make money at any cost even if it means stealing other people’s designs and livelihood.

Next time you are thinking about buying something think about making it yourself instead.

I purchased this leather patch on Etsy to have a go at creating my own version of the Loewe Ibiza Fisherman’s Hat. It didn’t quite go according to plan this time as the patch is too small for the hat but hey I supported local the patch cost £6 and I am sure I’ll find something else to pop it on.

Frank Gilbert Hardware Store Old Fashioned Service

My favourite shop in Market Harborough

Dora Black

2025-04-09T07:54:00.0000000 2025-04-09T11:05:33.0470000

I don’t really know how to describe this gorgeous shop in the heart of market town Market Harbourgh, Frank Gilbert Hardware. It’s like a trip down memory lane and a shopping interaction that is not of this time or generation, it’s the opposite to fast rude and stupid.

So it’s an old fashioned hardware store, if you need a mop and bucket, brush, a washing line/skipping rope, yes Frank Gilbert provided.

If you liked going to Wilkinsons before it went bust this is like Wilkinsons packed into an Aladdin’s cave or grotto with a friendly knowledgeable Santa like character waiting to smile, tell you you’ve been good and then sell you what you need.

Like visiting Santa, there is always a queue but people don’t mind, they chat amongst themselves waiting patiently to be served by Frank.

It’s slow for sure. I’ve learned so much about deep fat fryers and cooling fans with variable settings standing in that queue waiting to make my purchase and instead of it really annoying me like it does in the post office or the gossip on the checkout at the supermarket this I find relaxing and strangely entertaining, Frank is so knowledgeable about his product range he provides a real service people support and are prepared to wait for.

If you are passing the stripey green awning just pop your head in and say hello. Tell Frank you’ve heard all about him and see what happens.

Like many other wonderful old shops Frank Gilbert is in person only, no website.

His beautiful shop opening hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-5.30pm no surprise closed all day Wednesday.

Heads up if you are planning a visit to Market Harborough where there are still quite a few independent shops still operating and it’s a different from the mall experience where everything is the same, quite a few smaller and independently run shops still close on Wednesdays.

Woolite fine yarn and textile lovers magic miracle

Your luxury textiles best friend

Dora Black

2025-03-04T12:23:00.0000000 2025-04-05T16:41:23.3700000

Because I like really good fabric, I have my mother and grandmother to thank for Woolite; I also have had to learn how to take care of the garments that look and feel incredible when brand spanking new but can shrink, bobble and look like rubbish in a split if you don’t know what you are doing in the laundry.

I learned from two experts, good quality cotton can be boiled within an inch of it’s life but more delicate wools, cashmere, merino, angora, mohair, anything natural sourced from an animal needs extra care, and anything eco like Tencel and modal benefits from a more gentle approach.

Laundry day at my house growing up was like a Wallace and Gromit production line, we had a separate laundry room in an old Victorian house where the kreel (a contraption of wooden slats on a pulley system) lived, to deal with laundry for a large family that included farming overalls hoisted above a kitchen aga.

Woolite has been around for decades and even though I buy very few household cleaning type products largely due to the fact I am reducing my plastic / chemical consumption and am pretty anti bleach and air freshener I always have a big bottle of Woolite under my sink for my clothes.

All you have to do is pop a capful in your washing up bowl in your sink and in cold / Luke warm water wash your delicates by hand, rinse in cold water and put them through one short spin cycle in your washing machine and lay everything out flat to dry. I do it between vintage cotton sheets. This is also the best way to deal with luxury lingerie, those £150 bras from Auberge or L’empriente.

Put this type of lingerie on a four hour washing machine cycle and you’ll learn very quickly never to do that again.

Woolite is the miracle product for girls/women who like expensive but have to take care of it.

A few people on the reviews say it is heavily perfumed, something I hate so I’d disagree with this. It does have a fragrance but nothing compared to the heavy scent of fabric conditioner which I never use for exactly that reason.

Like most high chemical household products Woolite is relatively expensive, £5.50 from Ocado for 750ml.

I don’t buy very many different cleaning, laundry products so for me I don’t mind spending a bit more on this.

T by Alexander Wang

Luxury garments you can find for next to nothing secondhand

Dora Black

2025-03-01T07:57:00.0000000 2025-03-01T08:24:07.5300000

My best friend studied textile engineering at UMIST Manchester University whilst I went to work in textile mill as an apprentice.

We both loved fabric, she interiors me fashion.

I cannot believe the amount of T by Alexander Wang and Alexander Wang to be fair available to buy secondhand on recycling sites like Vinted and EBay.

Heads up. These ready to wear staples are second to none. There’s a reason USA Vogue Editor Anna Wintour championed the designer as far back as 2008. If you can find staple garments for £10 or £20 secondhand you are going to be blown away by the quality of fabric they use if you are used to wearing high street brands and online fast fashion.

My friend picked me up this white sweatshirt. I’ve been looking for one and US brands like Mayfair, Free City or Anine Bing even secondhand you have to pay between £50 and £100.

It’s 100% ethical, not made in China (even though when Wang started his eponymous label he was helped by family members and garments were initially sourced and manufactured in China) and the luxury super soft Terry sweat fabric, a type of loop back cotton modal is 50% cotton and 50% eco textile modal which comes from trees.

There are a few brands to look out for secondhand where the fabric of your garment is going to way better than brands you may be more familiar with, James Perse, Sundry, Monrow, helmut Lang, cotton citizen, current Elliot, American vintage all use way better fabric to make their staple clothing. T shirts sweats, sweat pants, sweatshirts and you find when you start to wear better materials they not only feel so much nicer on but they look way better and last way longer too.

My friend told me she paid £10 for the sweatshirt found on Vinted. It’s absolutely divine.

Leicester City Centre Parking

And Electric vehicle spaces

Dora Black

2025-02-21T14:15:00.0000000 2025-02-21T14:36:32.1330000

This is a rant in general, it is not specific to Leicester City Council but there is nothing more frustrating than searching for city centre parking, when you only need 30 minutes so not worth it to park in an NCP but all the street parking is taken except for all the electric vehicle spaces.

It’s illegal to park in an EV space apparently and you can be fined up to £100 for parking a regular petrol diesel vehicle in an electric vehicle spot.

You can even be fined for putting an electric vehicle in the space and not charging I understand.

It is tricky for councils balancing Westminster led initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions and encourage consumers to move over the electric vehicles whilst recognising the state of the economy and in socially more deprived areas like Leicester, a one size fits all approach perhaps isn’t the best.

Nothing worse than having to circle for over an hour in a 2 hour no return parking area when there are 5 spaces all unoccupied and not likely to be occupied anytime soon.

There must be a better way for councils to offer the charging stations EV owners need but also to be able to use the spaces when not being used to charge vehicles for petrol and diesel owners to park.

I missed my meeting as there was literally no street parking except the EV spaces. The parking was so grim this person risked a ticket, half in and half out, when there were literally 4 or 5 spaces behind no one could use.