Meet the Brand: Sylk
Since 2016, founders of Sylk vintage - Dexter and Sophy - have been curating a minimal and timeless mix of vintage gems and luxury labels. Sylk's skill for sourcing the crème de la crème is unmatched.
In celebration of launching an exclusive edit of Sylk Vintage here at MIMMO Studios, we dive into the heart of Sylk, with insights into their journey from a side hustle to a thriving business, their love for Manchester, and their passion for sustainability and quality fabrics.
MIMMO Studios — What's your current view?
Sophy — We are currently based in Manchester in our gorgeous city skyline view studio. You can see the beautiful landscape of Manchester. Although it can get incredibly hot and cold in here, it’s the perfect spot for us.
MIMMO Studios — What’s your earliest creative memory?
Sophy — I used to draw bubblegum & groovy chick characters. I also did a drawing of the queen for my gran once, she was so impressed she had it stuck on the wall for years.
MIMMO Studios — To begin with, was your business a hobby, passion project or a solution to a problem?
Dexter — Our business was a hobby. We used to buy and sell vintage alongside our full-time jobs, and it gradually became what it is today.
We never had any thoughts of it becoming a business, but during lockdown it gave us time to think and we both decided this was our passion. Since then, our point of difference has been making vintage feel more accessible, and to showcase classic & minimal design through secondhand.
MIMMO Studios — Do you have any guiding principles or manifestos?
Sophy & Dexter — Sustainability is a big one for us. We have had so many conversations with customers who don’t usually shop vintage, but since finding our brand they’ve realised you can buy better quality items instead of throwaway fast fashion pieces.
Design is another one of our key principles. All our items are vintage and one of one, meaning they’re totally unique. We think it’s so important to have individual style and we believe shopping vintage enhances this. We both have a passion for quality fabrics and that's something our store is based on.
We believe that transparency is so important in everything we do, which goes hand in hand with building customer relationships. We understand what it’s like to lose trust in a brand - being open and honest is always the best form of transparency.
MIMMO Studios — What’s at the top of your business bucket list?
Dexter — Having both worked in retail, one of our goals was to have our items in more physical stores. Our collaboration with MIMMO Studios means it’s really happening, and it’s so exciting! We really think this is the perfect match.
MIMMO Studios — What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Sophy — Don’t wait for the perfect moment. There’s no better time than to start now.
Dexter — I agree with Sophy. We’ve found ourselves waiting for the perfect moment, but we have come to realise that even if you make mistakes, you grow more from that than getting it perfect every time.
MIMMO Studios — If I gave you £5 to spend at the corner shop, what would you buy?
Dexter — Pick & Mix
Sophy — Chocolate - every type!
MIMMO Studios — What’s your top product pick from MIMMO Studios?
I need this jumper, it’s everything I would want! 100% wool, made in Scotland & minimal design.
These slippers look sooo cosy & they’re such a good price considering they are 100% wool!
We are obsessed with vintage furniture - especially anything chrome, so these vintage candle holders would be the perfect addition to our studio.
