A NEW country wear business has opened in Ilminster on the Dillington Estate.

The rural start-up, Stuarts Countrywear officially opened in September 2022 and has enjoyed a busy time since.

It is the brain-child of Kerry Hole-Stuart, a local businesswoman with a strong track record of catering for the needs of local women in a rural setting.

“We were keen to offer quality outdoor clothing in what is a very special environment,” Kerry Hole-Stuart said.

Stocking quality brands such as Dubarry, Clare Haggas, Hortons of England and Hartwell was an easy choice for the location with so many walkers present, as well as those who live and work in the countryside.

“The aim was to stock quality outdoor and country clothing for women but we quickly branched out into boutique wear for dogs. Four legged friends are a huge part of life on the estate so we couldn’t leave them out. We also haven’t forgotten the men in our lives and are beginning to stock items especially for the chaps.

“We quickly realised that whilst we were waiting for stock, we could be sourcing items not only designed in the UK but also made in the UK, if not locally.

“We found we were tapping into a rich seam of creative talent and drawing together real artisans from our immediate surroundings. Within two weeks we launched MAKE cosmetics, made by Mary Temperley, only a few miles away.”

Chard & Ilminster News: Stuarts Countrywear.

One of the first local brands to come on board was Smith Scents, a small regional candle manufacturer.

Recent associations come in the form of Somerset sheepskin products made by Drapers of Somerset which are of the best quality and support rural industry in the county and handmade bags by local artisan leather worker Angie Hinkins.

“We are now constantly looking for locally made country clothing made to the highest standard,” Kerry added.

“I strongly believe that local businesses need to pull together now more than ever. Whatever we provide as a service, we need to act as a team to support each other, particularly in these very difficult and uncertain times.”

Stuarts now also happy to stock Reeves and Reeves Jewellery from Forde Abbey, British socks, Harris tweed items, hand woven goods and products made by The Merchant Fox of Wellington.

Kerry finished by saying: "It seems clear then that whilst Stuarts Countrywear is adding a little sparkle to this corner of Somerset, it is also boosting the local economy and creativity."

You can learn more by visiting their website - stuarts-countrywear.myshopify.com.