Sustainable style: Laois boutique owner reflects on changing fashion industry

Inspired by an aunt who worked in the fashion industry, boutique owner Mary McWey took a leap of faith 20 years ago when she opened her own store in the bustling town of Abbeyleix. The fashion industry has changed massively since then with the popularity of online shopping and the growing number of sustainably conscious shoppers who want to know where their clothes come from. 

At Boutique Ladybelle, Mary combines the personal touch with her growing online presence. Always wanting to be ahead of a trend, she is undertaking a course in AI and has just joined TikTok. 

"Genuinely I didn't think women in their fifties and sixties were on TikTok, but they are. Whatever is new coming out we have to adapt and move forward," she said. 

The store has weekly live videos showcasing stock for customers, allowing them to see what their clothes look like true to life. 

"People want to see the size on ordinary people," said Mary. Another change in customer habits Mary has noticed is the demand for more sustainable products.

Boutique Ladybelle offers a range of clothes and gifts for the environmentally conscious, from organic cotton to sustainable bags. For those who want to breathe some life back into an old garment, Mary sells steamers and shavers for jumpers that have had better days. Offering advice on how to jazz up your wardrobe is another personal touch offered. 

"We tell the customers to add to what they already have and make more outfits. With a blazer, we show them different ways to wear things so you're not buying a blouse just for one outfit.” CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

If you're thinking about updating your own wardrobe, Mary advises that this winter season is all about bright colours like purples, oranges, reds and mustards alongside blacks. A pop-up colour, especially in coats, leather and leopard print are favourites this season. Away from the boutique, Mary has her hands full helping out on the family farm in Ballyroan with her husband, Paul. The couple have three adult children now in their twenties.