In Paid Partnership with Rushden Lakes (these are my own personal views).
When Rushden Lakes invited Sallyanne (@rutlandgirlfashionstyle) and I to go and take a look at the latest SS19 trends we jumped at the chance. I have been a few times before but it has always been a fleeting visit so it was great to be able to spend a full day there.
For those of you wondering what Rushden Lakes is, it is an out of town shopping park in Northamptonshire. A big, open space area with protected walkways for rainy days. The stores are all bright, have easy access and feel incredibly roomy. There is also plenty of free parking.
Calling it an out of town shopping park undersells what Rushden Lakes has to offer. From big brand fashion to lakeside restaurants and cafes, and a world of outdoor discovery it has something to offer the whole family.
For those of you who are not keen shoppers you can go and explore the Nene Wetlands. My husband and girls would much prefer to get out onto the boating lake than shop with me. Thanks to Canoe2 who have opened up a new boathouse at Rushden Lakes – they can. You can cycle, walk or hire a canoe and go off to explore.
Once you have finished exploring you can stop off and grab a bite to eat at one of the many fabulous restaurants. Bills, Pizza Express, Five Guys, Wagamama are to name a few. I have promised my girls a trip over the Easter holidays so that they can get a sugar fix over at Heavenly Desserts.
There is a play area called 360 for young children. Your kids can climb a giant 3 story play frame or ride the dodgems and carousel and as if this wasn’t enough there are also plans to open a 14 screen Cineworld later on in the year. All this plus shops, I am in heaven! Can you tell I love this place?
Moving onto the fashion side of things, Sallyanne and I spent the 30 min car journey to Rushden Lakes discussing a plan of action. We decided that we would start with a Costa coffee (and maybe a cheeky cornflake cake!). We then headed out to check out some of our favourite brands.
From high street favourites to big fashion brands Rushden Lakes has it all.
We popped into L’Occitane where hand massages were enjoyed and new fragrances were sniffed. I ended up buying a present for a friend of mine, I mean it is really hard to come out of that place without a little something.
The new season range over at Jigsaw was simply beautiful. Classic clothes that will stand the test of time, with some great quality fabrics. The colours were soft and the SS19 range full of wardrobe must-haves. I really believe that if you are after a classic it is well worth investing that little bit more as it really will be in your wardrobe for years to come.
Over to Hobbs to check out what they had in store. Not a store I usually shop in if I’m being honest and I wasn’t sure I’d find anything I’d like, but Sallyanne and I loved the beautiful floral print skirt and dress combo, perfect for so many occasions. I also could not resist trying on the satin shirt dress. Add a touch of neon and a simple classic becomes on trend for SS19.
Robert Goddard is an independent store founded over 100 year ago. The store holds many high quality brands and they pride themselves on great service (which we found to be true – the staff were so lovely). I found so many amazing looks that I loved. From co-ord suits, to stylish jumpsuits they had so much choice in store.
High Street favourite H&M did not disappoint. With affordable trend pieces they really do seem to have it all. Lemon, animal prints and boiler suits were just a few of the trend pieces we found. The store is large with lots of choice and a good range.
Our last stop was River Island. Again we were not disappointed. I fell in love with these gorgeous red trousers and paired it with this pretty red and white shirt, whilst Sallyanne opted for the cool co-ord suit look.
At this point it was 3pm and we were both in desperate need of some food and maybe a cheeky glass of wine so we popped over to Wagamama’s.
The one thing I have to say is that customer service across the retail park really stood out. Staff were incredibly friendly and keen to help. The big open store format also meant that despite the car park being full it did not feel crowded in any of the stores.
I have already planned to do a family trip over the half term holidays so that we can explore the boating lake, shop some more and eat dessert. A truly fabulous place and worthwhile a visit.
Love Chet x
Photo Credit goes to Dennis Davis Photography