Harlow Business recognised on SmallBiz100

Posted on October 13th, 2023 in Harlow Business Case Study

Sew Last Summer is a slow-fashion brand based in Harlow, Essex. Focusing on utilising and rescuing textiles from going to landfill, they create accessories which make you look good, feel confident – and doing a little bit to save the planet!

Sew Last Summer was founded in 2020 as a Harlow based business, they make/create accessories and lifestyle products that bring joy to the people who wear and use them. In 2023 they were named as one of the most impressive businesses in the UK by Small Business Saturday in their SmallBiz100 list. When asked about being based in Harlow their Creative Director and Owner Tiffany Blatchford said:

“Working as a business in Harlow is really inspiring to me – a lot of people have a negative opinion about Harlow, but as someone born and raised here, I do truly find the beauty in our town.  We have a lot of wonderful independent businesses, and this year the monthly Harlow Maker’s Market has been back in the Harvey Centre, where I am every last Saturday of the month!”

Everything they produce is zero waste – any tiny piece of scrap fabric is used in some way whether it’s as a bookmark, a pair of earrings or used as stuffing for drought excluders. Dubbed ‘The Crown of Joy’ their headbands are a well-loved best seller.

Their luxurious and fun accessories are designed and created by Tiffany, a Disabled and queer, self-taught sewist who was born in Essex. She is passionate about sustainability, finding joy in the small things and daring to be different. Currently Sew Last Summer is stocked in several locations throughout the UK in independent boutiques, including Love Local in Copford, Essex.

The future of Sew Last Summer looks bright and full of opportunities, they are currently striving to build new connections with wholesalers and department stores. When we asked Creative Director and Owner Tiffany Blatchford, Sew what’s next? She said:

“With my illness it can be quite difficult to look too far into the future (last year I spent half of the year closed and in hospital) but I would love to open my own independent boutique in Harlow town center, perhaps showcasing other local businesses, and maybe even hosting workshops”

All that’s left to say is watch this space! Sew Last Summer is a unique and creative local business which seeks to grow and build stronger connections with the Harlow community.

For more information on Sew Last Summer please visit www.sewlastsummer.com or email [email protected].