Getting to Know Bristol with BS8 on Park Street
Posted on: 05 Nov 2014BS8 on Park Street in Bristol is another institution for anyone that grew up here and our work experience intern Maura Rolls spoke with manager Alice Powers to find out more about the shop and how they continue to thrive year after year.
Maura : How long has BS8 been running in Bristol?
Alice : The shop opened in the early 1990's and I've been here just over a year.
Are there BS8 stores in places other than Bristol?
No – we’re a one off!
What age are the majority of customers?
Most are between the ages of 14 and 30 but older customers come in for the vintage section.
What do you think are the most popular items in your store?
People always love the Levi jackets and cut shorts from the vintage part of the shop. In the boutique section, there is always a demand for scarves and the bone china PRSC mugs. Towards Christmas time sequin dresses are very popular.
Do you think there are a variety of styles of clothes in store or just one?
A variety – we cater for everyone and we get a range of customers who like the different trends that come in like the sporty trend or glitz and glam ready for Christmas.
What popular boutiques/labels can currently be found in BS8?
Bellfield - a new brand filling rails at BS8, Native Youth, Glamorous and AX Paris are all getting lots of attention at the moment! Nicce is an East London unisex brand that have just agreed to be stocked with BS8 - lucky them! Some great new products for our customers to see.
How often do you get new stock in?
Three times a week! Our stock is constantly changing and customers can even ask us to order bespoke or popular pieces.
Are people drawn more to the boutiques or the Vintage section?
There’s not a big divide. Someone might come for one and end up buying from the other; people like to browse through all of it.
Where do you source the vintage items from?
From all over the world. We have lots of stock coming from New York and Los Angeles as well as the Far East. Our popular vintage shirts come from Japan. We have truly international lines. Come in and see.
What sets you apart from other Vintage stores?
I think it’s the size of our shop; the clothes aren’t crammed onto rails for lack of space like some vintage stores – something that I personally can’t stand! We have more stock and lots of variety, taking inspiration from other vintage stores all across the world. Also there’s the one off pieces like the real men’s cowboy jacket that we had in store recently.
There's lots of space in BS8 - do you use it for any other functions?
Our top floor is a studio that is available for events including fashion shoots - contact us if you are in need of a fantastic location!
Are there any events like the “lock in event” coming soon?
That’s a secret! The last one on 16th October where everything was 20% off was a huge success. All I can say is there will be one around Christmas… If you like us on Facebook we can let you know nearer the time. Our Facebook page is www.facebook.com/BS8.bristol
Contact BS8 in Bristol at:
34 Park Street, Bristol, BS1 5JG
Phone 0117 929 0115
Email info@shopbs8.com
Article by:
Born and raised in the suburbs of Swansea, Jimmy moved to Bristol back in 2004 to attend university. Passionate about live music, sport, science and nature, he can usually be found walking his cocker spaniel Baxter at any number of green spots around the city. Call James on 078 9999 3534 or email Editor@365Bristol.com.
