Liz Nicholls visits Jan Parkinson whose new My Secret Closet in Benson offers beautiful dresses & accessories for hire, plus a pep talk!

Dressing up can be one of life’s greatest pleasures.

But if you’ve lost your confidence (in your body shape or your style) an invitation or ticket to a special event can trigger a hot thought that just makes you panicky… what on earth to wear?!

Jan Parkinson understands this all too well. The mum of two grown-up twin daughters has spent her life traversing the globe working in luxury aviation. Her globe-trotting life includes time living in Florida working in hair & beauty, and so she’s naturally impeccably turned-out (while being modest and camera shy!).

Jan has collected some stunning occasionwear on her travels, some of which has barely been worn. This prompted a brainwave: why not hire out dresses and accessories? That’s how My Secret Closet was born. Jan’s outfit rental is perfect for mothers of the bride or groom, wedding guests, regattas, balls… or how about hiring something to give you that extra boost of confidence for an all-important job interview?

“With Jan’s help you shall go to the ball!”

From mid-March you’ll find high-quality/designer outfits and accessories in various sizes and colours to suit any style. We all feel a bit clueless sometimes (imposter syndrome, too) when we have to dress up, but Jan is the perfect fairy godmother to guide you to an outfit that might even make you feel like a princess. If you’re scared of colour, don’t be: Jan can show you how to build the perfect outfit, head to toe.

Her wardrobe has a fabulous range of accessories, including handbags, jewellery, pashminas and more along with dresses from Veni Infantino, Ted Baker, Karen Millen, Reiss, Hobbs and Coast to name but a few. Jan’s aim, by renting outfits, is to reduce fast, disposable fashion and offer an affordable and fun long-term or short-term rental solution. With Jan’s help, you shall go to the ball!

Email [email protected] and see My Secret Closet on Facebook for info.