Hotter. Younger. Cooler.

“There is always somebody Hotter, Younger, Cooler” states the press release for this unique pop-up shop in Rye, East Sussex. Well ain’t that the truth! But if you fancy your own little taste of something HYC, I suggest you take a trip to what may well be the historic town’s first pop-up boutique.

 HYC is a joint venture between my good friend and handbag designer Katei Roze, and her good friend Britainy Rae, a former London-based events planner. It showcases apparel, homeware, accessories and artwork at both high and low price points and all stock is limited edition or one off. This is particularly appealing when, let’s face it, we’re all a bit sick of the generic overpriced stock being churned out by high street chains.

I finally had the chance to pop in last Friday and the shop looks great. It’s a rather fabulous mixture of bags, vintage clothes and shoes and customised denim, alongside designer jewellery, beauty products and some beautiful cushions, neatly embroidered with poetically offensive slogans. (Britainy assured me that the most offensive ones were kept out the back! I’m intrigued and very tempted to commission something obscene…)

Thanks to Katei and Britainy’s impeccable taste and natural creative flair the shop is a treasure trove of all things HYC that are beautifully merchandised, with something new to discover in every corner. I was impressed to find that in addition to Katei’s handbags and Britainy’s T-shirts and customised denim, they are pioneering emerging designers such as Serbian jewellery designer Milena Kovanovic – some from London and some right on the boutique’s doorstep in East Sussex.

I’m currently under a self-imposed shopping ban which is painful to say the least, but I couldn’t resist one of the wooden letter rings (below) which are a guilt-free £3.50. The boutique will only be in a Rye until the end of the week but when HYC pops up in its next location I will be well prepared for my plastic to take a battering.

If you adore Katei’s leather bags (below) as much as I do then stay tuned, because I will be featuring an interview with her very soon, where she reveals the inspirations behind her gorgeous designs and shares her hopes for the brand’s future. In the meantime head down to HYC, I promise you won’t be disappointed!

HYC Pop Up Shop, Turtle Fine Art Gallery, 26 Landgate, Rye East Sussex