Yesterday I paid a visit to a gorgeous boutique in St Andrews called Elisabeth May. Established in 2010, the boutique is named after the Grannies (Elizabeth and May) of founder, Natalie Kerr. Natalie has almost 15 years experience in retail management and visual merchandising and, after discovering a gap in the St Andrews market for ‘covetable buys’ and ‘something not everyone has’, decided to set up shop.
Since then, Elisabeth May Boutique has been listed in Draper’s Top 100 Independent Stores UK (to be recognised by Draper’s is every retailer’s dreams) and was a finalist in the Fife Business Awards for most enterprising start-up business. The store stocks a range of independent brands and labels imported from Paris, which aren’t readily available in the UK or online. Natalie also works with Business Gateway on rural start-up events, so she really supports her peers and is a bit of a mentor. Elisabeth May is a special shop, with a nice sentiment and a really lovely owner. I can pretty much guarantee that you’d love it.
The range of Christmas party dresses and New Year’s Eve outfits on offer is great, there’s a dress for every festive occasion! I love the maxi on the mannequin in the below picture, it’s stunning and will make an entrance without screaming ‘look at me’. There’s a good choice of bold dresses and demure dresses, so whatever your style, it’s definitely worth having a look around.
My three favourite dresses are below. T
The first is a navy sequin number, which is rather Downton Abbey and makes me wish I’d had the foresight to organise a Downton Christmas Special party.
The first is a navy sequin number, which is rather Downton Abbey and makes me wish I’d had the foresight to organise a Downton Christmas Special party.
The second dress is fierce! It’s totally Beyonce circa 2008 (‘I Am Sasha Fierce‘). Those shoulders are pure ‘girl power’ – just the ticket for a girls’ night out.
My final choice is the black and white print dress, in the most feminine of silhouettes. I’d wear it with a cropped, black tux jacket, a black belt (around an inch in width) and lace ankle boots*.
*If I were Kendall Jenner – in reality I’d choose a nude or black court to elongate the leg.
Elisabeth May isn’t just a pretty face though; she’s got substance too. As well as the wide choice of party wear, there are some seriously hardworking pieces that are wearable for every day. In particular, the faux fur collars (perfect over your winter coat or a simple knit), cute jumpers, parkas and comfy leggings – I love the ones with the cool faux leather panel down one side. Great for wearing under jumper dresses or longline blouses.
In addition, the accessories are to die for and will make great Christmas gifts. If I had to choose just one piece? Probably a metal box clutch bag…. or one of the super trendy double coin necklaces. If classic is more your style, these handbags are practical, ladylike and will never date, so you can shop guilt free! (Boys, they’re a safe bet this Christmas).
Have you finished your Christmas shopping? Got your party dress? Do tell!
Please note that this is a sponsored post. You can read more about my sponsored posts here.
The Daydreamer is proud to support local businesses and retailers wherever possible.
With thanks to Elisabeth May boutique for choosing The Daydreamer.
