For 26 years, we’ve been a family-run independent lifestyle store in the heart of Hove, filled with beautiful things and people who truly love what they do.
Welcome to
Twenty-six years ago, I opened a little shop in Brighton's North Laine with my wonderful mum, Iris. We had a simple dream—to create a beautiful independent store filled with products we genuinely loved and a shopping experience people would remember.
Over the years we've moved around Brighton & Hove, and for the last 17 years we've proudly called Church Road, Hove our home.
Today, Velvet has grown into a stunning 2,500 sq ft destination store spread across two floors, filled with carefully curated women's fashion, menswear, accessories, gifts and homeware from around the world.
Although we've grown, our philosophy has never changed. We believe shopping should be inspiring, personal and fun.
Our Story
26
Years
2,500 sq ft
Store
15
Amazing team members
Thousands
Of loyal
customers
Being a mum has shaped everything about how I run Velvet. Building a successful independent business whilst raising a family hasn't always been easy, but it's something I'm incredibly proud of.
Velvet has always been a real family business. My mum, Iris, still plays a huge role behind the scenes, and all three of my boys have worked here over the years. Family has always been at the heart of everything we do.
A Family Business
No business is built by one person.
Today, I feel incredibly lucky to work alongside an amazing team of talented women who share the same passion for exceptional customer service, creativity, and making every visit to Velvet feel truly special.
Many of our team have been with us for years, including Gemma, who has been by my side for over 17 years. Alongside Ella, our Store Manager of nearly 10 years, Gemma and Ella buy our collections, create our beautiful displays, look after our wonderful customers, and ensure Velvet continues to evolve with every season.
We're also incredibly lucky to have Ellen, our fabulous part-time manager, who somehow balances raising her two wonderful boys with being an invaluable part of the Velvet team. Her warmth, dedication and positivity make her such an important part of everything we do.
Helen, our Warehouse Manager, has also been part of the Velvet family for almost 20 years (with a little break in between!). She keeps our stock management running like clockwork, ensuring everything behind the scenes is organised, efficient and ready for the shop floor.
Together, they have helped shape Velvet into the welcoming, inspiring store it is today, and I couldn't be prouder of the incredible team we have built.
Our Amazing Team