Discover How a Local Fashion Entrepreneur is Reigniting Style with Joy and Individuality
In an era where fashion often feels homogenized and dictated by influencer trends, Leigh Unwin, the founder of The Style Attic in Swillington, Leeds, is making waves by promoting a vibrant and eclectic approach to clothing. Established in 2015, The Style Attic specializes in free size, fun clothing for women of all ages, reflecting Unwin's belief in the importance of comfort and personal expression through fashion.
A Journey into Fashion
Unwin's journey into the fashion world began with part-time retail work during her college years, gradually evolving into significant encounters with fashion buyers after winning a styling competition in Australia. Despite lacking a formal fashion degree, her determination and passion saw her break into the industry, ultimately leading to the establishment of her own brand.
Embracing Individuality and Comfort
Describing her style as eclectic, Unwin emphasizes that fashion should be fun rather than a chore. Over the years, her wardrobe has evolved to prioritize comfort without sacrificing style, particularly after becoming a mother. She champions the notion that getting dressed can be a joyous and creative process, and encourages women to focus on how clothing makes them feel rather than how it looks on social media.
Bringing Back the Joy in Fashion
Unwin is particularly inspired by the 1970s fashion aesthetic, which she cites as being characterized by flowing fabrics, soft silhouettes, and a sense of freedom. She believes that modern fashion has veered too much towards the 'effortless' look, often resulting in a lack of individuality. Her vision for The Style Attic is to inspire customers to take risks with their wardrobe choices by embracing bold colors and playful statements.
The Future of Fashion is Fun
With an eye on emerging trends, Unwin suggests that the future will see a shift away from the muted tones that have dominated social media aesthetics. She believes that consumers are eager for more color and fun in their wardrobes and encourages women to mix and match pieces creatively and confidently. At The Style Attic, contrasting colored knits and vibrant prints have consistently proven popular, indicating a demand for uniquely expressive fashion.
As Unwin continues to lead her family-run business, her commitment to fostering a sense of joy and individuality in women's fashion stands out. In a world often obsessed with uniformity, Unwin’s message is clear: embrace your style, have fun with fashion, and most importantly, dress for yourself.
