Courtyard Wins Womenswear Independent of the Year in Drapers’ Fashion Awards

Published on: 22 Sep, 2017
Updated on: 20 Sep, 2017

Courtyard, a designer womenswear boutique in Angel Gate, Guildford, has been named Womenswear Independent of the Year at the 2017 at the Drapers Independents Awards.

Courtyard owner Julia Jaconelli (centre) and her team with Draper’s editor Keely Stocker (right).

Held in London on September 13, the awards celebrate and acknowledge key players within the UK’s independent fashion scene.

Established by owner Julia Jaconelli, Courtyard has been retailing quality, designer-led ladies fashion and accessories in Guildford since 1996.

Selected from a shortlist of eight independent stores, Courtyard was praised by the Drapers’ judging panel for “staff [that] really go the extra mile for their customers” and “close attention to merchandising and a unique product selection”. The judges also referred to the store as “a very impressive indie”.

Julia Jaconelli said: “We’re so thrilled to win this award, it really is a tremendous achievement both for the store and all our dedicated and hardworking team.

“We want all our customers to leave Courtyard looking a million dollars and feeling that way as well from the great service they received.

“Winning this award gives us tremendous recognition from within an industry that we’ve been involved with for more than 20 years and we look forward to continuing our fashion journey in Guildford for many more.”

Amanda Masters, general manager of Experience Guildford, the town’s Businesses Improvement District said: “This is a tremendous result for Julia and the team at Courtyard.

“Guildford is well-known for its unique blend of high street and independent stores. It’s what makes the town shine, helping to put us firmly on the map as one of the best shopping destinations in the South East.

“For businesses in the town to win such high-profile awards not only boosts their own credentials but also the town as a whole, adding to and embellishing all that makes Guildford so special.”