Scotland's creative community seems to be making more of an impact over the last couple of years, and I take my fedora hat off to those who are making a difference within the community. This most recently includes boutique manager David Black who runs Factory 45 in Merchant City, Glasgow. I first met David when he was promoting his impressive graduate collection for his label House of Black. Three years later when we met again, I found out that his passion for design has led him to help support other local creative talents.
Along with David's own label, Factory 45 stocks an outstanding array of womenswear, menswear, vintage pieces, jewellery, accessories, homeware and illustrations. It's the perfect place to discover hidden talents and find eye-catching pieces to add to your wardrobe, home, or for a friend as a unique gift. The current talent you can find in the boutique includes Rebecca Torres, Abetwix, G69, Angel Pixie Love, Mandy Maria, Oh Corrin and many more.
It's great that the designers are not required to pay rent, and the profits made go to a brilliant charity called Impact Arts. This community arts organisation helps people, who are mostly from vulnerable groups, to gain new skills and find work in the creative arts. Their Factory 45 project not only helps Scottish creatives gain exposure; it also includes retail training for young people. What better reason is there to shop than to help a wonderful charity?
Rebecca Torres collection
Since its launch in December last year, Factory 45 has already won a regional award for Fashion and Accessories at the 2015 Scottish Independent Retail Awards. I hope it continues its success and I plan to visit from now on whenever I'm in Glasgow. Make sure you do too!
