Our Story
The owner, Sam, realized that Edinburgh needed a fresh offering of apparel whilst working towards a degree in Construction Project Management, deciding to take the jump and start his own concept store. With previous experience working in retail and a lifetime of observing the fashion market, Sam had a good idea of what clothing brands and store direction was required, however it was quickly apparent it wasn’t as easy as picking up any brands he wanted. He had to start from the very bottom and with determination (and a bit of luck) he managed to acquire some brands in his first trip to London Fashion Week. This is when the real work started, with a handful of brands secured and ready to stock Sam’s new venture, it was time to find a shop. After a few failed short-term lease enquiries, SMI found its first home as a six-month pop-up store in the Stockbridge area of Edinburgh. This was a great opportunity for Sam to showcase his new brand products and begin to build customer relationships.
“Looking back on the pop-up, if anyone is out there looking to start their own brand or new business venture, I would highly recommend it as a starting point. You don’t require a lot of capital to begin with and it’s an easy way to begin liaising with customers and getting your name out there. If it wasn’t for the pop-up there is no chance SMI would be where it is today.”
Sam Ingram, Owner
SMI had lots of new customers and orders placed for the following season, but with the pop up only short-term and close to completion, time was running out. Eventually, a lease agreement was placed at 22 Thistle Street based in Edinburgh City Centre. A massive moment for Sam and the SMI brand and they haven’t looked back since. Each season see’s new, exciting brands joining them on the journey and more customers – local and further afield – flocking to see Edinburgh’s newest addition to the high street to shop their unique brand offering.
“I really believe we are the only store in our city to provide a combination of in demand brands, a personable experience and an array of styles to suit anyone who comes through the door. We pride ourselves on the fact whether you’re going out for dinner, for a hike, for a run, or grabbing a coffee; we have something for you’ll feel comfortable in”.
“We hope you enjoy our store and we’d love to see you soon.”