Shops: Hidden Pop-up Shop

I recently blogged about the goodies on sale at Much Too Fun's online store and mentioned that there was a pop-up shop planned. Last Thursday evening was the launch evening of Much Too Fun's pop-up shop at the Hidden Lane, and never one to refuse the opportunity to go shopping, I headed along for a visit.

Scatter cushions by Emily Moir featured at the pop-up shop

The appropriately named Hidden Lane is tucked away just off Argyle Street, but too wasn't difficult to find. For a moment I wondered if I was in the right place - up a dark slightly scary alley - but then I spotted the cheery yellow plastic sign that assured me that I was.

The pop-up shop was full of keen shoppers browsing the shelves in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. I was asked several times if I needed assistance or would like a drink, the customer service was very friendly and personal - so much that at times I felt like I had wandered into someones flat rather than a shop (as it felt cosy, there was no pressure to spend money and the Much Too Fun girls seemed genuinely happy that we were there). I instantly recognised jewellery by Bonnie Bling and saw Lindsay McDowall's nautical necklace being proudly displayed in a glass cabinet which made me smile.

Jewellery by Lindsay McDowall (top shelf) & Bonnie Bling for Obscure Couture (underneath)

Lots of other local designers and creative types had their pieces showcased at the shop, including Downie Allison Downie Bookbinders, Wonky Woolies (whose snowman hat and scarf sets get a special mention for being so cute), Emily Moir's gorgeous printed scatter cushions and The Charm Offensive. I also spotted CDs, handmade cards and yummy cupcakes. It was nice to see some of the products up close in 'real life' after admiring them online. Did I leave empty handed? Of course not.

Some of the knitwear on display by Wonky Woolies

The shop has 'popped up' just in time for Christmas shopping, and is well worth a visit to see what quirky gifts are on offer and also to take the opportunity to support local talent.

Some plastic patter by Bonnie Bling (left) & notebooks by Downie Allison Downie Bookbinders

You can find the Much Too Fun Hidden Pop-up Shop at Unit 24A, The Hidden Lane, 1103 Argyle Street, G3 8ND.

Will you be visiting the Hidden Pop-up Shop for a bit of Christmas shopping?

Shop: Jodie's Jewellery Boutique

When an outfit needs something special to give it that extra bit of va-va-voom, only a good piece of statement jewellery will do the job. The cherry on top, the icing on the cake. After the shoes, the dress and the hair are sorted out, it is the jewellery that is the finishing touch and can set you apart from the crowd.

Which is why, tucked neatly in Argyll Arcade, Jodie's Jewellery Boutique is where fashionistas in the know go to accessorise.


The store opened in summer 2008 and is a Glasgow family-run business. With its bubblegum pink carpeting, big mirrors and pick n' mix selection of jewelry & accessories, it is pure girlie fashion indulgence. Jodie's carries the popular brands that we know and love like Tatty Devine and Disney Couture, and introduces us to ones we may not be as familiar with, for example Glasgow's own And Mary and the quirky and fabulous Silver Service.

Disney Couture 'Alice in Wonderland':

Tatty Devine:

I am a firm believer that the shopping experience is almost (if not as) important as the items we purchase, and with its friendly atmosphere, cheerful staff and wonderful attention to detail (from the themed cabinet displays to the cute carrier bags), Jodie's makes for a very pleasant customer experience indeed. The girls in the shop know their jewelry and have the same passion for the designs as their customers.

New season Tatty Devine:

Attention to detail is in the bag:

What I also really like about this store is their knack of knowing what brands people want, ones that may be difficult to get (even online) and they make them accessible. I had to resist buying one of the Wizard of Oz Ruby Slippers-style brooches by No Tail (maybe next time...) and caught myself looking longingly at the new-in handbags by Helen Rochfort. Back to the task at hand, I chatted to Louise of Jodie's, who filled me in on their best selling items and the store's annual birthday bash (which unfortunately has just passed - but there's always next year). The birthday events are very special, with a prize draw, champagne, cake and discount vouchers all featuring in the celebrations!

Ruby Slippers brooches by No Tail:

With prices starting at around a fiver, Jodie's is refreshingly unpretentious. They are worth visiting because they offer high quality and unique pieces that don't cost an arm and a leg, and provide a lovely atmosphere to browse for them in. And isn't that what it's all about?

I finally asked Louise why people should visit Jodie's Jewellery Boutique, and her response?

"If you haven't seen this stuff, you haven't lived".

And I can't say I disagree.