This month, we meet the owners of Feather & Stitch in Richmond, Fleur Webb and Fiona Sanderson. As the sales get underway and the new season stock starts coming in, we find out from them what's hot for this spring

Originally published in Surrey Life magazine January 2010

This month, we meet the owners of Feather & Stitch in Richmond, Fleur Webb and Fiona Sanderson. As the sales get underway in Surrey shops and the new season stock starts coming in, we find out from them what’s hot in fashion for this spring

Feather & Stitch,54 Hill Street, Richmond,Surrey TW9 1TW.Tel: 0208 3322 717

What would you say are going to be the key trends for this season? The boyfriend blazer was a huge trend in the autumn and will continue into the spring. Also, stylish jersey layering is a versatile look that suits everyone. American Vintage is one of our most popular jersey brands and is perfect for creating this look with its super soft tops.

Which do you think will be your best-selling item this month? Knitwear is still strong for us in the springtime and Laark is a fantastic new British knitwear label that originated in Surrey. Their essential chunky cotton cardigan will be perfect for the change in seasons.

What are your three hottest labels in the store?Samantha Sung is a hot new brand we have in store. Her printed, cotton stretch dresses are a must-have for spring. We also love Odd Molly for pretty, easy-to-wear cotton tops, which look fantastic thrown on with jeans, and Theory do great wardrobe staples with an urban edge.

Is there a particular celebrity’s style you admire and why?It would have to be Claudia Schiffer. We both recently became mums and we admire the fact that she always looks fabulous when photographed on the school run!

What would you say is your best buy at the moment?Anything from the bohemian Danish brand By Malene Birger. Her fabulous and affordable dress shirts will instantly freshen up your look.

Is there anything you would recommend for the guys?We don’t do menswear but a great tip would be to understand the power of accessories! Adding a scarf or a hat can transform a look.

If someone was going to buy one key item for this season, what do you think it should be?A jersey dress is an incredibly versatile piece that can be dressed up or down to suit all occasions. We offer knee length to maxi versions, in earth tones to pretty summer shades. We have some lovely ones in-store from Michael Stars and Day Birger et Mikkelsen. They look great with a piece of statement jewellery.

Is there anyone in Surrey whose style you particularly admire?Amanda Lamb has become a valued customer and has her own great style. She often buys dresses from us and one or two of them have made it on to TV!

In the competitive fashion industry, what are the key ingredients for success?An interesting and unique clothing mix, great customer service and never missing an opportunity… For example, we were unable to find good maternity wear in Richmond when we were pregnant, so we turned the lower ground floor at Feather & Stitch into a maternity boutique.

What would be your top tip for people visiting your store? We are always on hand to offer a free personal styling service – from finding the perfect fitting jeans to wedding and party outfits to maternity and post-pregnancy clothing.