The Olive Tree Shoreham… A Shopper’s Style Paradise

When I started this blogging lark I promised to provide my wonderful readers with a guide on where to go locally and spend their hard earned money. I am, as you know, a huge fan of the Great British High Street, however our wonderful independent retailers are doing a pretty damned good job of offering us an opportunity to put excitingly unique looks together.

Shoreham has been revealed as more than a rat run between Brighton and Worthing and is a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. The wonderful Cafe Nia came and sadly went before The Olive Tree opened its doors sending the locals into a right old hedonistic spin. An enticingly fragrant ambiance and soft music combine to transport you to a European shopping experience. A bountiful array of interesting homeware ensure that all gift dilemmas are solved and that’s just for starters.

The clothing line is artfully sourced from Europe by owner Keely Scanlan and those in the know have been seriously upping the anti on the style stakes by shopping here. Keely undoubtedly has a  natural flair for good taste and an instinctive nose for both home styling and wardrobe. She has now allowed us to share her secrets by visiting the inner sanctum of the shopping heaven she has lovingly created. The chic and stylish collections have a broad age appropriate appeal from the (ahem) mature woman who wants to funk up her wardrobe to the daughter who wants a more eclectic look. “Where did you get that?” is something that the seasoned Olive Tree shopper hears often, so back they come every season to top up and keep their friends guessing. The highly polished and experienced manager Beth, oozes style and taste and she is passionate about giving honest styling advice. She and all the staff ensure that every woman who leaves with a carrier bag, looks and feels gorgeous. The fashion forward shoes, bags and other accessories are to die for and complete the look. British manufacturer Owen Barry are provided with a showcase for their show jaw dropping bags. After all, its good to fly the flag for ‘Made in Britain’ goods.

Here are my top picks and before you ask, Each item scores 10/10

I loved this dress which could easily take you to a wedding or perhaps away from one on honeymoon. The fabric feels incredibly soft, the cut is totally flattering, moves beautifully and the asymmetric hemline adds a dash of edge. I styled this with these amazing nude suede courts which made me look a mile high. Blissful! Cost: Dress £145 Shoes £54.95

This next ensemble is a bit of grunge chic that is so wearable it’s not true. Its got a touch of All Saints about it and can be styled with either a flat pair of glads or some edgy shoe boots. A great trans-seasonal piece that can be worn and worn again. Cost: £138This grecian grey dress can just be flung on and will never date. A contemporary piece, it can be worn with bare legs and shoe-boots or knee highs whatever the weather. This just plain works! Cost: Skirt £89.95 Jacket £177 Shoe boots £135

I’m a sucker for anything that can be worn in different ways and as such, this totally floats my boat. To jazz up a basic long-sleeve T and a pair of jeans, this is the kind of piece every woman should have in her wardrobe. Hides a multitude of sins and is the secret to creating a laid back and relaxed wardrobe. I just love this so much, I fear I may never recover… Cost: £154.95

Go on, tell me what you think, I love all the comments and feedback!