I came across The Fashion Bunker and was really impressed by the selection of dresses they had in stock (the sculptural ones in particular!). At the moment, the Australian shopping site carries gorgeous items from brands like Cameo, Finders Keepers, Senso and Keepsake, all under the $200 mark! Find out more about The Fashion Bunker by checking out my interview with Gretl Watson-Blazewicz, the manager and buyer of The Fashion Bunker.
How long have you been in the biz and how did your shop get its start?
“We started out in September 2011, with the intention of showcasing the full collections of our favourite local labels; Finders Keepers, Keepsake and Cameo. We’re now stocking other new emerging designers, such as E-S-T jewellery by Emma Sadie Thomson, and other popular brands such as Senso. This is a really exciting step forward for us.”
How would you describe your customer?
“Fun and fashion-forward girls who aren’t afraid to make a statement without breaking the bank.”
Can you tell us the secret spots for finding cool pieces and designers?
“We find our inspiration from vintage stores and stalls, in Adelaide we love Gilles Street Market, or boutiques such as the Birdcage which always stock those hard-to-find labels we love.”
What’s your favorite item at the moment?
“It would definitely have to be Cameo’s Skyline top, in either color. I just couldn’t resist getting both!”
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of owning a shop?
“As manager the most rewarding aspects would be getting amazing feedback from customers, and being able to work in an amazing team of talented and creative people. The most challenging aspects would hands down have to be dealing with IT problems! The world wide web is an amazing platform to reach out to a wide audience, but also comes with astoundingly complicated technical issues!”
How big is the Fashion Bunker team?
“We’re growing, it started out with just myself and now we’re a team of 5.”
Have any tips of the trade for people looking to start a boutique?
“Having a strong presence online is a must. Also stay true to what you believe to be amazing pieces to sell. If it is amazing and good quality then it will sell!”
What are your favorite sites at the moment?
“I am addicted to Tumblr blogs! Just amazing imagery and inspiring artwork, it has the integrity of no advertising, just people who want to share beautiful things. There’s something really amazing about that. We have our own Tumblr which really reflects what we’re loving at the moment.
Have anything exciting planned with your shop?
“We don’t want to give too much away, but we’re shifting our focus towards lifestyle. I believe that one of our greatest gifts is that of sight, and to be surrounded by beautiful things can increase our quality of life. That being said, you don’t have to spend a fortune to channel amazing style in your life and home!”
If your store could be described through a playlist, what songs would be on it?
“Beach House – Myth
Alt J – Dissolve
The Beatles – Here Comes the Sun
Madonna- Material Girl
Lana Del Ray – Diet Mountain Dew
Arcade Fire- Keep the Car Running
Modest Mouse – Float On”
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