By Hayley Manning

THE OWNER of a new fun and fabulous ladies fashion shop on Emu Bay Road invites you to come in and experiment with some colour!

The Purple Thistle is named to reflect Gayle Pollock’s favourite colour and her Scottish heritage. Initially from Scotland, then WA for 35 years, Gayle moved to Westbury, a place she fell in love with the place while on holidays a year ago.

Gayle’s creative flair for colour coordination and accessorising stems from an extensive background in art and design, interior design, men’s and women’s retail, and a ‘memorable’ stint in bridal wear.

‘It has always been my dream to have my own business.

We have a beautiful dressing room with plenty of room to move and lots of mirrors because in many shops you just go into a cramped, dark corner,’ she said.

‘I encourage customers to let me come in and allow me to spin my magic – to gather garments and help you put together a unique outfit.

‘We start with the basics of leggings and skivvies, and then I like to introduce colour for people to try with layering.

‘I will never forget my first day at Sportscraft in Cottesloe. It was a particular company where if you sold a lot, you got a commission. At the end of the day my manager said to me, “I am very happy with the way you conduct yourself Gayle, however, and I’m not saying you do it, but never ever say someone looks good in something if they don’t look good in something because it all depends on the colour, style and fit.”’

The Purple Thistle features easycare, Tasmanian designed, ethically-made garments, in prints reminiscent of yesteryear, but produced in bold colours with a modern twist.

Local fashionista Maria said, ‘Deloraine has been waiting for the Purple Thistle. It is an up-to-date shop with a remarkable degree of variety at a reasonable price.’