Joyce Pratt opened Ragdoll of Pudsey in 1976 and her daughter Maxine joined them a year later after leaving school. Neither had any formal training but both showed an eye for fashion and a head for business from the start.

Great British Life: Ragdoll of PudseyRagdoll of Pudsey (Image: Archant)

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They had no idea that their business would still be booming years later. But booming it is, and since that successful day the shop has seen three generations working together. With Joyce’s daughter-in-law, Michelle, joining them full time in 1997 and now with five additional part time staff at the helm, Ragdoll is still going from strength to strength.

Their priority is to provide a personal, tailored service for every customer that visits their Galloway Lane shop, spending time with ladies looking for just the right outfit for that important occasion.

The main focus of the business is fabulous clothes from outstanding collections from around the world, but there are many other factors that bring customers back time and time again.

Outfits are available in sizes 8 to 22, with shoe sizes 3 to 8. A full alteration service is available to ensure that perfect fit. Ragdoll have an impressive collection of day, evening, race, cruise and of course occasion wear from leading international fashion houses. Condici, Ispirato, John Charles, Veni Infantino, Presen and Ian Stuart to name but a few.

Upon speaking to Ian Stuart about Ragdoll he said “For many years I have designed Bridal gowns, until numerous mothers of the bride and groom asked if we would consider making a collection for them too. I created an occasion wear sample collection in 2008, and nervously waited with bated breath, to see the reaction from the boutiques.

Our very first occasion wear customer was Maxine, Michelle and Joyce, of Rag Doll of Pudsey… We all instantly clicked and became firm friends! It was their sheer enthusiasm which I will never forget! They are always researching fashion and on the look out for something new in their boutique. Our First Occasion wear client would be selling my collection, in my Fathers home town of Pudsey, which made me feel really proud!.... That was five fast years ago!

As a designer, feedback is paramount. You have to be aware of what the customer requires, whilst providing wear ability and new ideas.. The tips and comments I have received from Maxine and Michelle have, I believe enhanced the collection to what it is today.

Three generations of Rag Doll have given the utmost service to their customers! Boutiques like this are hard to find and I feel honoured that my collection is presented in such and elegant platform by such wonderful, welcoming and friendly people!”

The Ragdoll Team are proud to have dressed hundreds of ladies for their special events during their 37 years in the business. They understand body shape and sizes and are able to offer a very personalised “One-to-One” service, with Yorkshire’s most comprehensive outfits. Presented on two floors, you’re sure to find the perfect ensemble to create the wow factor for that special event. A warm welcome always waits at Ragdoll of Pudsey.

Contact Details:

76 Galloway Lane, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 8LE

Telephone: 01274660880

Website: ragdollofpudsey.co.uk

Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Ragdoll-Of-Pudsey