Discover how two friends turned their passion for fashion into a thriving business.
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In the heart of Aberdeen, two young entrepreneurs, Anthony Simms and Bradley Lumsden, have transformed their passion for fashion into a vibrant business. Their vintage clothing store, Fit’s In, has quickly become a staple in the local fashion scene, offering not just clothes but a unique shopping experience that encourages community engagement.
A dream realized
For Anthony and Bradley, the journey to opening Fit’s In has been a long time coming. Having spent countless nights queuing for the latest trainers at Hanon, their love for fashion has always been evident. “It’s been our dream since we were like 15,” Anthony shares, reflecting on their teenage aspirations.
Now, with their own shop, they feel a sense of disbelief at how far they’ve come.
The duo opened Fit’s In in October, right next to The Green, a location they believe is perfect for their vision. “When we walked past here, we thought it was the perfect location, the perfect size… Just perfect everything,” Anthony recalls. Their store stands out with its vibrant exterior, inviting customers to explore the eclectic mix of vintage garments inside.
More than just a shop
Fit’s In is not your average thrift store. Anthony and Bradley aim to create a space that fosters a love for fashion and community. “We want people to come in and treat it more like a social thing rather than just somewhere to buy clothes,” Bradley explains. This philosophy has led to the store hosting live DJ sets and serving as a backdrop for music videos, turning it into a cultural hub in Aberdeen.
Since opening, the store has evolved beyond its initial concept. “We had opened with just the motivation to sell stuff and make money,” Bradley admits. However, as they connected with local creatives, the store transformed into a vibrant space that celebrates fashion and community.
Facing challenges and embracing opportunities
Both entrepreneurs have faced their share of challenges. Anthony completed a degree in fashion management, while Bradley made the tough decision to leave his business studies behind to focus on Fit’s In full-time. “It was a long thought process, but I think it’s for the best,” he reflects. Their commitment to the store is evident as they work tirelessly to build their brand and attract a loyal customer base.
Despite the challenges, their determination has paid off. The store has garnered a growing following, and they are optimistic about the future. “It’s starting to really pick up, we’re getting more and more followers every day,” Bradley shares, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise.
A supportive community
Fit’s In is not just about selling clothes; it’s about building relationships within the community. The duo has received support from neighboring businesses, creating a sense of camaraderie in the area. “They’ve all come in, introduced themselves, and even given us coffee and cake,” Anthony says, highlighting the warm welcome they’ve received.
As they reflect on their journey, both Anthony and Bradley are excited about what lies ahead. They initially signed a three-month lease for their Carmelite Street unit, but they are keeping their plans for the future under wraps. “We might take it on for a little bit longer, but we’re going to make it a surprise if we do or not,” Anthony teases.
For now, they are focused on enjoying the success of their first few months and continuing to foster a love for vintage fashion in Aberdeen. “I can’t wait till I’m older to tell the kids we had a store on The Green. It’s a cool thing to say,” Anthony smiles, embodying the spirit of youthful ambition and creativity that drives Fit’s In.
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