CHLOE MCDONALD

 

Tell us a little bit about what you do? What are you excited for this year? Can you tell us about some of the projects you are working on at the moment? 

I run my own Vintage homeware store called Scene By Chloe.  I source and curate an eclectic mix of furniture, objects and art.  predominantly I'm online based with regular pop-ups in different locations across London.  I source from all over the UK and Europe, to curate an inspiring and diverse spectacle.  I'm super excited that my next pop up will be in an iconic west London department store as part of Spotlight market in July.  I'm also close to securing my first permanent showroom space and from there will expand into interior design services and product development. 

What is an opportunity you are grateful for in your career?   

I was previously a fashion buyer at Harrods and I had this pipe dream of becoming an antique dealer, which I had no idea how or when I would start!  It was the pandemic that gave me the time and space to really think about my future and set up my venture.  I remember my life was so hectic pre pandemic I had no time to do my washing let alone start a side hustle! I'm really just so grateful for that time that enabled me to launch my new business and career. 

Is there anyone who acted as a mentor to you along the way?   

As a new antique dealer you are kind of making it up as you go along, it can be tricky to ask for too much guidance without overstepping the mark as no one wants to give away all their trade secrets!  Luckily I have a great group of antique dealer friends, we collaborate and bounce ideas off each other on our sourcing trips!  

How do you approach getting dressed everyday?  

Well now it's a lot more chilled than when I was at Harrods!  But I'm still a fashion gal and love to throw a lewk together.  I tend to wear the same practical things at antiques fairs like jeans and my vintage F1 jacket so everyone recognises me!  You get better prices if they know you've bought from them before!  When I have a pop up I like to dress up for my brand.  My business is really just an extension of my personality like my fashion so it's nice to dress up for my customers.    

What are you wearing here and what made you gravitate towards this look from Huishan Zhang?   

I'm wearing a gorgeous pale blue ruffle cape gown from Autumn Winter 2023. I just love the elegance of the very soft pale blue, and the contrast of the ethereal ruffles and soft movement with the power woman shoulder pads.  Feminine and powerful is my kind of lewk.   

Chloe McDonald wears the Calla Gown from our Autumn Winter 2023 collection. Available for pre-order.