New sustainable and ethical clothing shop Yew Tree in Lyndhurst High Street, which also sells vegan coffee, cake and ice cream, officially opens

A NEW shop which offers sustainable and ethical clothing alongside vegan coffee, cake and ice cream opens its doors in Lyndhurst today (Saturday).

Yew Tree, based in High Street, is the brainchild of Josh Bland (37) and partner Cacey (41), whose focus is zero-waste fashion with a conscience.

The shop stocks their own brand, Tweedy Clothing, as well as sustainable skincare, handmade jewellery and eco-friendly gifts, such as soya candles.

Josh told the A&T: “We are absolutely thrilled about our venture and the positive impact it will have on our community and the environment.

“Our aim is to create a haven where healthy living, sustainability, and relaxation come together harmoniously, offering a unique shopping experience that resonates with individuals who value ethical choices and high-quality products.”

Josh explained each piece of clothing is thoughtfully crafted with natural materials, ensuring both style and sustainability.

The store, which has complimentary WiFi, is designed to provide a comfortable and inviting space for visitors to relax and unwind while enjoying vegan food and drinks.

The couple’s journey began in 2014 when Cacey, who was taking part in a yoga training course, spotted some jewellery for sale at the studio.

Josh said: “A lightbulb moment sparked within her – ‘I could make this jewellery!’

He added: “Driven by her creative spirit, Cacey wasted no time. She swiftly ordered the necessary materials and tools, crafting unique pieces of jewellery that she proudly wore to her yoga training sessions.

“To her surprise, her fellow students fell head-over-heels for her creations and eagerly purchased them right off her neck.”

The couple, who were based in Australia, decided to seize the opportunity to expand Cacey’s customer base and delved in to the world of Christmas markets, where Josh secured a coveted spot for Cacey’s jewellery at a seven-week festive extravaganza.

Juggling full-time jobs alongside the project, the duo poured their hearts and souls into crafting jewellery during their spare moments.

The market was a great success and with profits in hand, they embarked on an “epic” journey to India.

Josh said: “Travelling by train, boat, and even a thrilling ride on a Royal Enfield motorbike through the majestic Himalayas, we amassed a collection of unique clothing along the way.

“Our enchanting encounters led us to a talented tailor named Raj, with whom we formed a deep bond and a family-like friendship.”

From this, their brand Tweedy Clothing was born, channeling their love for wearing clothing in to creating designs that embodied their unique vision.

The couple design each item of clothing in-house to ensure they are unique and stylish as well as based on “real bodies for real scenarios”.

They believe in reducing environmental impact by sourcing materials from suppliers committed to sustainability, ethical working conditions and fair wages.

Josh added: “Knowing that your clothing is made by skilled adult workers who are paid fairly in great conditions and also made from beautiful earth conscious fabrics will help you wear your garms with pride and make feel great inside and out.”