30 years of style

Debbie Wilson, owner of Mélange in Truro, tells us how she and her team have moved with the times over the last 30 years.

After first walking through Truro’s brand new Nalders Court development 30 years ago, Debbie Wilson knew it was time to engage her entrepreneurial spirit. A hairdresser by trade, Debbie’s eye for colour and style helped her realise that there was a gap for an upmarket ladies clothing shop, for the 40-plus woman looking for quality clothing that was different to what the high street had to offer. “It wasn’t long before I had signed a 25-year lease and was on my way to opening Mélange!”

“Smart, comfortable, casual clothing is now what women want…”

Over the years Mélange has changed dramatically, with customers now item buying and mixing fashion pieces with classic staple favourites. “Lifestyles are different,” Debbie tells us. “Smart, comfortable, casual clothing is now what women want, which is why we now specialise in jeans and casual trousers. A perfect fit is essential!”

Of course, Mélange has also witnessed the advent of online retail, which has had a huge impact on the high street. “Customers are easily drawn into thinking it’s cheaper and easier,” Debbie explains. “But it’s not. Often when your purchase arrives it isn’t as good as it looked, or the quality and fit aren’t as expected. Here at Mélange we’ve always delivered great personal service, and as the shift is gradually drifting back to independent stores, we’re still here in Truro after 30 years, with a helpful team on hand to help choose the perfect clothes for you.”

So how does Debbie decide which labels to stock? She explains: “I have stayed true to some of my collections over the years as they too have changed with the times, however I regularly look at new brands if I feel that I’m lacking a bit of excitement in the season.” Joseph Ribkoff is the latest addition: popular thanks to its fit and comfort, this fabulous label flatters customers sized 8 to 18, with larger sizes available to order if required. Perfect for travelling, the easy-care fabrics mean they can virtually be worn straight from your suitcase, giving you that instant feel good vibe via timeless designs and a supreme level of comfort.

Spending time with customers, helping them to select items to fit and flatter them and giving them the confidence to try something new – whether it’s for work, a holiday or special occasion – is what Debbie and her friendly team enjoy most. They understand that whilst we may all feel as if we need a reason to purchase that new dress or sweater, most of the time, we simply need our fashion taste buds tickled!

Tailored to you

Debbie and the team also offer a complimentary bespoke trouser shortening service.

MÉLANGE

01872 223767

www.melangefashion.co.uk