Dawn Stretton

I came into the newly returned Dawn Stretton the other day, now back in it’s rightful place at the Corn Exchange, as I was searching for a bridesmaid dress for my sister’s wedding. Once again I was greeted by hoards of exquisitely designed glorious dresses, from the elegant maxi to the sumptuous shorter options. Each striking garment is made with the finest silk material, stiff to keep shape but not so much that it doesn’t flow, and every item appears to have been lovingly made with the utmost care.
The shop was buzzing with customers, all presumably on a similar excursion to myself, who were ‘oohing and ahhing’ at the many dresses. The shop also has a lovely arrangement of fascinators, handbags and accessories which seem to match with the majority of the garments so I would certainly recommend this shop for occasions, bridal wear, proms and other such events!
Sadly, this time there was nothing for me. I was looking for a deep purple and there was nothing in that appeared right. I am certain that I could have asked about the possibilities of a custom make dress, only I simply have left it too late. Still, one day I will come back and there will be something with my name on for sure. This beautiful shop is a gem and must be visited!

I came away from the Dawn Stretton shop thinking that it would be the ideal place for cruise ship enthusiasts to prepare for their impending holiday. The décor of the place corresponds perfectly with the architecture of the Corn Exchange, stylish baroque furniture displaying the goods, lit by intricate chandeliers.
This is a place to buy an outfit for a special occasion, and the prices reflect that. The quality of the clothing was evident. The material on a particular peacock blue number that I picked up felt thick and luxurious. When I tried it on, I found the lines flattering and the discreet chest support boosted and didn’t flatten.
A sale rail curved around the window and was heaving with discounted cocktail dress and gowns. I began creating scenarios in my head as to why I might need a floor length red ballgown. I was halfway to the till with a hot pink fitted number, when I remembered about the Barclays statement that gracelessly occupied my doormat that morning.
To be honest, I think if I was shopping for a specific event, Dawn Stretton probably wouldn’t be the first place I would look, I sometimes thought it was erring on the side of garish. I can see why it is popular though, and it certainly wouldn’t be the last.

I admit, Dawn Stretton is not the sort of shop I would usually set foot in. For a start the prices are mostly prohibitive for me (up to £250 for a dress), but also the style is not really my thing. Mostly selling dresses of the type I imagine ladies that lunch might wear for a day at the races! This vision is bolstered by the array of corsages and fascinators on display.
However, this opinion is formed entirely through my very-​skint-​scruffily-​attired-​recent-​student eyes, and for a formal wedding or very special occasion this shop is spot on… full of gem-​coloured silks, large bows and flattering shapes. Described as ready-​to-​wear haute couture, the garments are all made to be treasured — a welcome antidote to the fast fashion of the high street chain store. Whatever your taste, if you are looking for a dress for a very special occasion it is definitely worth a look, as despite my first impressions, I did actually find a dress I could imagine wearing… and it had been reduced to £35 in the sale!
The shop also sells a small range of bath products and some organic perfumes — perfect as gifts… especially if shopping for wedding attire!