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Have you ever dropped into this preloved and vintage haven on Beaumont St? I am Billie Boots opened back in November 2019 and specialises in quality women’s clothing and accessories and is a little bit of a hidden gem in the preloved and vintage world of Newcastle!

Brought to us by Newcastle-born and bred vintage lover, Julie Grant, I am Billie Boots is situated pretty much directly opposite local coffee haunt, Lords Coffee & Associates, and is the culmination of years of love for art and clothes.

“I have always been obsessed with clothes and for most of my young life was determined to be a Fashion Designer. I was always creating something too. Whether it was sewing, craft, art, writing stories; I was always making something,” Julie said.

Having spent many years working in the retail industry, Julie saw first-hand the level of waste that the industry produces and wanted to be a part of the movement that was creating an alternative.

“I have always been a passionate op-shopper and vintage hunter and the idea started to build that I could take my passion and turn it into a business.”

The real catalyst, however, was when she was browsing in her friend Bec’s store, The Retro Wardrobe, when she mentioned the space next door was up for lease.

“She encouraged me to take a look at it. I did and the rest is history!”

Take a step inside the welcoming space and browse the incredible range, beautifully sourced and curated by Julie herself. Exploring through markets, garage sales, and even auctions; Julie is always on the hunt for amazing pieces.

“The garments we stock are chosen for their quality and uniqueness. We have a serious love of fabric so you will find lots of silk, cotton, linen, wool, velvet, and lace. Every item has something special about it.

“It may be dramatic, glamorous, theatrical, romantic. We love the fantasy world of dressing up. So, while we do stock plenty of garments you can wear every day if it’s something special you are after you can find it on our racks.”

Finding those unique special pieces is Julie’s specialty, in fact, her sourcing skills became so good she caught the attention of TV presenter and all-around funny gal, Jan Fran.

“A dear friend of mine was chairing a panel at an event where Jan Fran was the MC. Apparently, the vintage dress Jan Fran was wearing at the event was so fabulous that my friend approached her afterward to tell her about, I am Billie Boots.”

Jan had started her ‘no new clothes,’ journey when Julie’s friend suggested she start following the local boutique on Instagram. Since then, the TV presenter has purchased quite a number of items from Julie!

“Jan Fran is such an incredible advocate for buying preloved and vintage clothing and her style is seriously awesome. We wish there were more presenters on TV like her.”

The name itself, I am Billie Boots is Julie’s ode to her beloved late Father, William Grant Boots…

“My Father’s name was William Grant Boots. When he was little, people called him Billy Boots. I thought it was the most adorable name! I feminised the spelling to reflect that I retail women’s clothing.”

For those looking for a relaxing and welcoming haven in which you can experiment, play dress-up, and shop, I am Billie Boots on Beaumont St has the most beautiful preloved and vintage range to explore.