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If sustainability is a priority for you, Saffron Walden has a whole host of eco-friendly stores to explore – from second-hand boutiques to ethical jewellers. Fast fashion is a big problem for the planet, but there’s an easy way to reduce the carbon footprint when upgrading your wardrobe. Nicola Brooks, owner of Brooks Clothes Agency , tells us that smart shopping means buying pre-loved: “Not only is it good for the environment, but you can save so much money,” she says. “Most of the items we have in are new – and lots with their original labels that haven’t been worn – so you can get some real bargains. We sell everything from designer labels such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Prada, to top-end high-street names like Reiss, Jigsaw and Whistles – all at a fraction of the original price.” For vintage jewellery and accessories, Arts Decoratifs is an absolute delight. All the products in the shop are pre-loved, dating from the 1960s back to Georgian times. “I love my shop, Saffron Walden and the planet, and think we all need to be proactive in preventing any further damage to it,” says owner Ann Miller. It’s not just
Saffron Walden locals that have cottoned on to the perks of buying second-hand, either. “A favourite part of my job is selling to prop buyers for film, stage and TV. Our goods have graced stages from the Royal Opera House to regional theatres, and even the small screen in The Crown !” If you’re looking for brand-new or bespoke jewellery, without creating a dent in the earth’s resources, one hidden treasure is The Smithy – a little boutique workshop and shop tucked away on Market Hill. “I work in a traditional artisan style, designing and making unique pieces by hand,” says Helen C Walls, independent jewellery designer and maker. “Emphasis is given to recycling precious metals in-house, or from suppliers that are transparent about sustainable and ethical metals and gemstones. It’s great to see a lot of the jewellery trade adopting this practice.”
One business that’s an old hand at reusing and upcycling is Reed & Son , an antique and second-hand furniture dealer founded in 1880 – and the forbear of much-loved Saffron Walden store Angela Reed. “We believe in repurposing and re-loving well-made, interesting furniture and decorative objects. Each piece has a history and tells a story,” comments Kate Reed. “Our labyrinthine shop is a place to go in itself, with cellars and areas of curiosity that established us as a favourite to locals and visitors for hundreds of years.” Offering a diverse, ever-changing inventory of stock, Reed & Son is a cabinet of curiosities that’s a must-see. Finally, another sustainable gem is The Modern Crafter , an independent business specialising in punch needle and embroidery, two traditional types of craft. Run by sisters Rachel and Siobhan, this beautiful shop offers a range of kits that use eco-friendly materials, alongside its own exclusive range of 100% British wool that’s both renewable and biodegradable. “We’ve discovered it is a great planet-friendly fibre, and can be used to make lots of practical items for your home such as rugs, cushions, wall hangings – and anything else you might dream up!” says Rachel. The Modern Crafter is well worth a visit, and you might just discover a relaxing new hobby while you’re at it. Whatever brings you to Saffron Walden – be it the heady aroma of street food, or the lure of cultural curiosities waiting to be discovered – you are sure to find something to love about this charming medieval town.
GREEN ROOMS The Modern Crafter is an eco embroidery specialist (top); Arts Decoratifs deals in antiques that prop buyers can’t get enough of (above left); The Smithy’s Helen is a true artisan, creating incredible jewellery (above)
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK APR I L 2022 83
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