Sybil’s Closet was always a unique discovery for Canberrans, synonymous with Melbourne’s arcade and back alley boutiques; Sybil’s always served a niche. But what happens when Sybil closed her closet?
Danielle Neale adopted it of course, re-opening the doors with fresh styles and eclectic new labels; adding her personal spin on what she and Canberrans loved about the boutique. Now named Sybil’s closet by Danielle, Danielle offers her share of quirky treats inside.
Danielle adds a flavour to the Andrew Arcade and Kingston community and sits poised behind her decorated register, complete with a dainty stand of homemade vanilla cream cupcakes.
“Take one!” she exclaims to her customers, and with her sparkling smile and boutique that looks more like a 50’s boudoir, you can’t help but be enticed and delighted by what you’ve found.
Danielle looks as though Sybil’s Closet was made for her. She greets the regulars that walk by and waves over at the other retailers. With a string of new dedicated shoppers and a handful of amazing new labels in-store, it’s hard to imagine that this it’s Danielle’s first quarter of trading, and more importantly her first experience in the fashion industry.
“Its genetic I believe, I blame my mother entirely. My father can confirm that he had to live with 2 females who just indulged in fashion.”
Danielle hopes to add her personal spin on the shopping experience, and is basing her philosophy on experiences on the ‘other side’ of the counter.
“As a consumer, I like to buy unique pieces, sometimes things a little more cat-walky than practical, but I like to have that option.”
Sybil’s Closet by Danielle is only a small premises but Danielle has collected a broad spectrum of looks, from urban and military inspired day wear to classic siren glam, with icons Veronica Lake and Dita Von Teese in mind.
“It’s a challenge to get that right and pick the right pieces… it is going to be a learning curve for me.”
Danielle has gone to great lengths to select a new collection of Australian labels for her closet, but with all the excitement of a new store, what’s Danielle’s favourite addition?
“I couldn’t pick one; it’s like choosing a favourite child!”
Honey & Beau and Melbourne label Mazi are just some of the inspiring Aussie names now hanging in the closet.
Danielle has high hopes for Canberra’s fashion scene and aims to contribute to the growth and support of ‘the unique.’
“I would like to see canberrans wearing more of their personality instead of conforming. It’s important to be appropriate but stepping outside of the drab navy suits.”
Danielle’s passion for feminie and strong clothing on women of the past stems from her earliest fashion memory, swanning around in her mother’s gowns.
“I used to beg my mother to let me dress up in her clothes and jewellery. I loved her black lace full-length gown, with a big frill neck. She even had a pair of Perspex stilettos…I just thought she was the hottest thing ever.
Danielle’s mum eventually handed down her beloved lace gown.
“I’ve never worn it. At the time, she looked divine, but some things are best left in the past!”
After a sweet treat this Autumn? You’re sure to snap-up wearable delights, in a tasty range of girly shades at Danielle’s Closet. You might even be lucky enough to sample home-made treats of the edible variety, if there’s any left!
