This month SO magazine welcomes Charlotte Newman, owner of Kitch in Tunbridge Wells as its new resident fashion columnist. Here she tells us about her beautiful High Street boutique and reveals what’s so special about Me369 – one of the uber cool fashion labels she stocks
If you love fashion then you’re bound to know Kitch, a treasure trove of stylish sartorial finds located on the upper end of the High Street in Tunbridge Wells.
You may think the independent boutique’s name is a spelling mistake – i.e that it should be ‘Kitsch’ – but actually it’s a blend of the owner’s name Charlotte and that of her husband’s: Kit.
The shop opened its doors in 2003 and is one of the town’s biggest independent retail success stories. During Covid it commissioned local fashion stylist Victoria Genevieve to carry out weekly instore lives on Instagram. They proved to be so popular they are now a permanent fixture and something Kitch’s loyal clients love.
“Me369 offers luxurious garments, premium basics and statement pieces that are current yet timeless”
“I’ve always tried to offer something different,” comments Charlotte on the ethos behind her shop and website. “Kitch is a one-stop shopping destination. We try to source new, upcoming brands you won’t see everywhere else so we can offer the customer a unique shopping experience. Kitch is all about colour and print.”
Eye-catching patterns and high-octane hues are clearly key sartorial staples for the store’s rails so it’s no surprise that Charlotte loves the Me369 label which offers statement pieces, with a focus on exquisite prints, colours and silhouettes that are perfect for women of all ages. It also sells a variety of wardrobe basics. Here she tells us more about the international brand…
The Me369 collections are inspired by the fast pace of life and about being able to overcome obstacles in a vivacious and audacious kind of way. Renowned for their elevated takes on everyday essentials, Me369 offers luxurious garments, premium basics and statement pieces that are current yet timeless. From wonderfully printed dresses and skirts, to their cult-favourite wool blazers, here are a selection of key pieces for your capsule closet that will transcend the latest fashion and style trends:
JACKET REQUIRED:
No closet is complete without a signature blazer. The Monica blazer is a timeless staple you will reach for time and time again. Tailored from a wool-blend in a classic checkered pattern, it has a relaxed fit and structured shoulders making it ideal for layering over knits. When it comes to outerwear, a blazer can add business-ready polish to everything, which makes it a staple piece to wear for both work and the weekend. The Monica blazer will instantly become one of the hardest-working versatile pieces on rotation in your wardrobe.
DRESS TO IMPRESS:
Crafted from Me369’s signature soft and silky fabrics, the Mavis Tattoo dress is the epitome of elegance and laid-back luxury. With a notch neck and tie detail, the dress features long balloon sleeves that are secured with buttons and functional tie. The palette of warm neutral shades is a great choice for the new season and makes a sophisticated alternative to the classic wintery neutrals. The soft oyster, black and caramel tones will compliment any skin tone and make every day dressing a joy.
SEASONAL CHANGE:
A standout piece in the new collection, the Amelie Urban dress is a stunning choice for Autumn with its contrasting animal and geometric print. Featuring a deep V-neck with button fastening and small slits at each side, it can be styled up or down to suit a myriad of looks. A great option for any occasion, wear it with a pair of sneakers for an effortless daytime look or style with heels for elevated evening attire.
CONTEMPORY CHIC:
For day-to-evening dressing, a silky midi skirt is an easy-to-wear wardrobe staple that combines classic and contemporary styles. The Rosalie skirt is a cult-favourite, with its vibrant and unique print. The midi skirt is elasticated at the waist and has a straight, relaxed fit. Team it with a sweater and chunky boots for a casual daytime look, then switch it up in the evening with a silk camisole and a pair of heels. Complete your look with minimal Anna Beck gold jewellery that will complement and enhance the warm tones of the skirt.
The latest Me369 collection presents seasonless luxury essentials, through high quality pieces in a refined palette that can be mixed and matched with total ease, season after season. Me369 expertly combines decades of creativity, talent and stunning design to create high end styles, with minimum effort.
