Little Wing Takes Flight
Perched mid way up the main street of Katoomba, Little Wing sparkles with all things beautiful. Michelle Ryan the owner and manager, has filled her store with exquisite women’s clothing, accessories and homewares. Inspired by the Art Deco streetscape of Katoomba, and tales of show girls secretly getting about town in an underground network of tunnels, Michelle has captured the essence of this elegant era in her own modern boutique.
Having lived locally for 18years, Michelle had spent much of that time commuting to Sydney as she pursued a career in nursing management. Over time, she found herself craving a life that was more connected to her community; she wanted to live her life in the mountains, not just sleep here. She was also ready to be her own boss and so Little Wing was conceived. “I wanted to create a little beautiful haven in Katoomba,” she says and she has done just that – Little Wing is as warm and inviting as the owner herself.
Michelle has always had a love of fashion, and admits she’s still discovering its secrets. Ultimately, she believes “It’s not about size, it’s about shape.” Her desire to understand just what works for her customers is one thing that sets Little Wing apart. Often working with one lady, Michelle is more than happy for them to try on 30 percent of the stock, until the perfect outfit is found. This is not a store you will be hurried or over looked in, but stepped back in time to a place where individuals and their needs were cared for.
Another exciting element of Little Wing is many of the clothing, accessories and homewears found in store are uniquely Australian brands. “We have some labels that can not be found anywhere else in N.S.W”, adding that many of the pieces originate from Melbourne. Rather astutely, Michelle sees a style connection between the cool climate of Melbourne’s funky streets and those of the Mountains. Lucky for us, she’s cleverly used that insight to inform her buying choices.
Inspired by the creative and philanthropic Australian designers she supports, Michelle is excited by the future. The label ‘Queen’ is one Michelle raves about, describing the owner and designer Christine Boyle as hardworking, putting her ethics at the core of her business. Creating styles that interpret modern trends – rather than slavishly following them. ‘Queen,’ is built around timeless pieces that will live in your wardrobe for years to come. With the added bonus of being an Australian made product, it is no wonder Michelle is so excited by her labels.
Little Wing’s pocket of glamour and worldly charms is the perfect contrast to the raw beauty of our wild mountain surrounds. So next time you find yourself in Katoomba, be sure to flutter by – as you slip on a silk slip, and back to a time of style, glamour and service, maybe, just maybe, you’ll catch a glimpse through the 1920’s glass facade of a show girl dashing off to her next performance.
Little Wing is open Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 6.00pm and Sunday 11.00am to 4.00pm.
You can easily find Little Wing at 112 Katoomba St, KATOOMBA NSW 2780. A helpful map can be found at their website, www.littlewingclothing.com.au
To contact Little Wing, please call 4782 4174 or by email at shop@littlewingclothing.com.au
WORDS by Jennifer Jamieson IMAGES by Camille Walsh
LOVE little wing….I have had the pleasure of meeting Michelle before, a lady who really knows what she likes and has a great eye for detail…. :) Lucky for us locals to have such a fabby little shop :)
If only we had more shops like Little Wing in Katoomba!
Here is to the rest of Katoomba Street following Michelle’s lead. It is nice to have a clothes shop not selling polar fleece.