Hepwrights Original Vintage, 34 Bedford Place, Southampton

One of our dearest Friends of Bettie is the most expert vintage fashion queen, Catherine Wright, owner of Southampton's biggest vintage clothing store. We popped up to see her today in her new shop at Bedford Place, and despite the rather unintentional romantic atmsophere (due to a temporary powercut!), Hepwright's Original Vintage looks very comfortable in it's new stylish surroundings, and was bustling with seekers of unique fashion pieces.

Friends of Bettie first met Catherine in April, when Vintage Hair Lounge was in the throes of establishing our temporary salon. The warm welcome we received then has never waivered or faulted ever since. Many Vintage Hair Lounge clients have either found us through Hepwright's or vice versa, and in May 2010 we were delighted to support Hepwrights GO! Vintage Market at Southampton's Soul Cellar.

What's so fantastic about Hepwrights is not only the huge range of fashions available to buy from the forties through to the eighties, but that it is possible to hire a frock for a special occasion. Friends of Bettie bagged a couple of outfits for an upcoming photoshoot with the Southern Daily Echo next week, and in true try-before-you-buy style, if we fall in love with the items we can purchase, or if we want to try something different for another occasion, we can hand them back and book out a new piece. Rather like going to the library, you can amaze all those around you with the vastness of your vintage wardrobe without having to shell out a fortune or extend your own wardrobe space.

So this Christmas, with the party scene upon us, where better to really dress up and show off than Hepwright's. And of course you can count on Vintage Hair Lounge to style hair and make-up to match your sparkly outfit.

Hepwright's, 34 Bedford Place, Southampton SO15 2DG 07986 370 543 http://www.hepwrights.com/