Bethany Rowntree
Mulberry, Matchesfashion, Anya Hindmarch and now Studio B
Following 7 years working in buying and merchandising roles at three of the biggest names in British luxury fashion; Mulberry, Matchesfashion.com and Anya Hindmarch, Bethany Rowntree has taken the jump and gone solo, launching Studio B just 6 weeks ago (at the time we recorded our podcast).
Statement not basic, this is certainly a phrase that can be used to describe Beth’s taste and way of doing things, yet she doesn’t shout, she shines.
The brands Studio B showcases are unique, beautifully made and support local makers and economies such as made in London contemporary accessories label Paradise Row (listen to our podcast with founder Nika Mokhtassi) and Toolally who have worked with The London Fashion Agency (read our Q&A with LFA founder Rosie Davies).
Beth’s approach to business and brand selection comes across as extremely relaxed, fun and instinctive. Yet behind the bold prints, colours and her wonderful smile is someone who has worked hard at understanding the business of fashion, working her way up from intern to business owner.
Fellow Northerner Beth and I had a lot of fun discussing; her journey from Darlington and university in Manchester to her previous roles and how they have influenced her vision for Studio B, her bold taste, love of independent fashion brands and her go to Christmas outfit, all available from Studio B of course!
“I was trying to find things that maybe you couldn’t get on the high street cheaper. Some people don’t really care where it’s come from or they don’t care that much about the quality. I mean you can get everything in Zara…so I really wanted to get things that maybe you didn’t see.”
“Mulberry were really good at creating a product range and working with partners in different markets to make sure it fitted in. They were good at curating their range, which I think is something I’ve picked up on. ”
“I’ll eat tinned tuna for a week to buy something, but I’m not prepared to do it for a year, to buy me some Gucci (that I still probably couldn’t afford!).”
“I’ve always been good at picking best sellers…well if I like it then other people are gonna like it. You’re never the only one (with the same taste).”
above images of beth's treasured objects
mabel the whippet
jessie harris earrings, grandma's necklace, two rings
close up of jessie harris earrings
all photos taken at beth's home in parsons green, south west london, by bec o'conner for black neon digital
additional product images of rixo dress and leopard coat courtesy of studio b
podcast recorded at jodi muter-hamilton's home in south london
04.12.2017
