Trinders' clothes shop in Clare celebrates 50 years

20th Century Fashion at Trinders' in Maltings Lane, Clare, first opened as an antiques and second-hand books store at Easter in 1974, switching to selling pre-owned designer fashion in 2004. 

Owner Rosemary Trinder, who launched the shop with her husband Peter, will also mark her 80th birthday on May 14, making this year an extra special celebration.

Owner Rosemary Trinder (Image: Newsquest)

Of the milestones, Mrs Trinder said: "I feel astonished I suppose. But most people my age will tell you you don't actually feel much different.

"You look changed to everybody outside and younger people think it is a silly thing to say, but it is true - you don't feel elderly." 

Ms Trinder, who lives above the shop in the iconic 16th century timber-framed building, which was formerly part of the Boar and Griffon Inn, said the excitement of finding unusual pieces is part of the draw to continue working.

Inside 20th Century Fashion at Trinders (Image: Newsquest)

"Because it is not new you don't know what sort of thing you're going to get offered or find so you're seeing completely different things every time," she said.

"It is very very rare that I find something which is something I have seen before."

The shop stocks quality brands including Burberry, Versace and Gucci (Image: Newsquest)

Mrs Trinder added: "You get really nice interactions with customers. Someone comes in and they have a prom, they're going to something which is a bit out of their normal sphere, a Buckingham Palace garden party or a rather posh wedding, something which they want to look different to their usual self for.

"It's quite fascinating and exciting to have someone popping out the changing room excited by the clothes. It is lovely to see the expression on their face when they find something.

"One of the things which really gives me pleasure is to see someone walk out of the shop with their clothes in the bag and my clothes on their back." 

20th Century Fashion at Trinders in Maltings Lane (Image: Google maps)

Mrs Trinder formerly worked in computers, including for major banknote printer Thomas De La Rue where she designed and wrote software to create secure patterns for banknotes.

20th Century Fashion at Trinders stocks quality names and materials including items by Burberry, Catherine Walker, Caroline Charles, Gucci and Versace. 

Later this year, the shop will hold a celebratory stock reduction sale which, as items sell, will see pieces from the immense back stock put on offer.