CWB meets new independent childrenswear retailer, DottyandV.
A qualified solicitor by trade, Maria Booth’s previous career lacked the flexibility needed for family life. Keen to work for herself, Booth decided to follow her passion for fashion and took the plunge during the pandemic.
Inspired by her three children, she opened childrenswear boutique DottyandV in her hometown of Kirkby Lonsdale in April 2021. DottyandV brings together Booth’s daughters’ names, Dorothy and Violet. Her son Ernest’s name, meanwhile, inspired BigErnClothing; a bright and colourful collection exclusive to DottyandV comprising children’s hoodies, T-shirts, beanies and caps, plus hoodies for adults.
The boutique itself features a mix of industrial, antique and bold fittings to create a warm and positive vibe for customers. DottyandV focuses on sustainable and timeless brands that are made to last and can be passed on to siblings or friends. Those currently stocked include Turtledove London, Lilly + Sid, Piccalilly, Didriksons, Mousqueton, Me & Henry, Vignette, Wauw Capow and DottyandV’s own collection, BigErnClothing.
To engage with customers, Booth has run a colouring competition with local toy shop Little Owls Emporium, as well as a quiz and trail around the town for children to complete. She has also organised a family giveaway competition; supported four local schools by donating towards their Christmas raffle; and sells bracelets for the charity, Wouldn’t Change A Thing.
As a member of the Chamber of Trade, Booth works hard to promote and support local events. She also advertises the local area via social media. Plans for the business include expanding the BigErnClothing collection and increasing promotion of the website as the business grows.
DottyandV, 3 Chapel Lane, Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria LA6 2AL
