Cath Kidston – York Store – Honestly, Becky!

Cath Kidston – York Store

October 29, 2012

I adore Cath Kidston; the pretty florals, country comforts and vintage inspirations. When I think I have the brand pinned, a new design breathes a new fresh take on the shabby chic, vintage look, proving it’s not about chintz and granny decor.

As much as I’ve loved Cath Kidston, I’ve never been into one of the stores. Buying online and through the catalogues is simple as, but I’ve often wondered the physical experience, seeing the product ranges for real and being able to touch the pieces. So, I decided to call into the York store on Stonegate to get a proper feel of this quintessential British brand…

The store looked tiny but like many of York’s city centre shopfronts, was deceptively roomy and full of inspiring visuals. Farmhouse style kitchen chairs and wellington boots lined the way in, with display boxes full of bags in all shapes and sizes. From there, an archway led you into the main shop floor; the points of sale to the left with trinkets and small goods in every available crevice to tantalise your curiosity.

A large, centrally placed table boasted festively designed kitchen and dining paraphernalia; tea towels, cake tins and paper napkins in holly print and and an adorable frolicking deer design. I was in actual awe of this pint sized rudolph because it reminded me instantly of old fashioned cards and Christmas ornaments my Grandparents used to decorate their home with.

I found a beautifully soft and chunky jumper with the very same little deer design knitted into it’s thick yarn. It was so cute and looked like the kind of jumper you could snuggle into when it’s pinching cold outside and you’re all enveloped warm and cosy within this comfy jumper. Sadly it was the only jumper left in the store and it was a small. 🙁 A large would be the perfect size to throw on and chill out in.

Everything in the shop was there to be adored, picked up and to take inspiration from. In one corner, a faux set up of a laundry room caught my attention. An apron adorned mannequin ironed Cath Kidston fabrics on a board of complimenting floral bouquets.

Even the changing rooms were clearly Cath Kidston!

The ‘bedroom’ was my favourite set up in the store. A beautiful white glossed wooden bed with Cath Kidston fabric panels was dressed in a swathe of country chic patterns. Floral and striped pillows lay upon eiderdowns and blankets; blues, pinks and crisp whites offering a clean, feminine country boudoir. This is everything my own bedroom aspires to be.

I could have jumped right into that bed, there and then, it was so beautifully inviting! To the left was an open shelved area where I discovered what must be the best blanket ever to have been knitted. This super snuggly Fair Isle lambswool blanket. I was in love!