Skip to main content

Autumn 2023Local independent fashion retailers shortlisted for Drapers Awards

Two of Rochdale and Littleborough’s independent fashion retailers have been shortlisted for the 2023 Drapers Independent Awards.

High-end men’s clothing retailer Buckley Menswear, Rochdale, is one of the 10 finalists for Best Independent Menswear Store, whilst women’s boutique Pretty Parade – which has stores in Littleborough and Ramsbottom – has been named as a finalist in two categories: Best Customer Experience and Womenswear Independent of the Year.

Buckley Menswear boasts two floors filled with quality and classic menswear, including casual collections and formal tailoring. It previously was named a finalist for Drapers Best New Retailer in 2019, after opening on South Parade in 2018.

Owner Phil Buckley described the experience as “a real honour,” adding: “[It’s] a big deal as the category is full of top indies doing great work all over the country.

“To be recognised is a great reward for all the hard work over the last five years in getting ‘Buckley Menswear’ established and trying to present ourselves in the right way.”

Pretty Parade opened its Church Street boutique in November 2018 before establishing a second store in Ramsbottom in July 2022.

Its director and founder, Mollie Butterworth, said being recognised amongst the top independents across the country was “an incredible honour.”

She said: “It is an exciting time for a small independent business to be recognised for two prestigious awards.

“None of this would be possible without the unwavering support from our amazing customers. We feel extremely lucky to be part of such an amazing community.”

The esteemed Drapers Independents Awards by the Drapers trade magazine celebrate the best fashion retailers and brands across the UK and Ireland, recognising customer service, innovation, grit and community spirit shown by the top independent multi-brand retailers.

The winners are announced on 21 September at a special awards ceremony in London.