Carlisle's market hall officially welcomed a new business, which aims to provide sustainably-sourced clothing to the people of Cumbria.

Cora's Cloakroom was born during lockdown, when Megan Barrett sought a way to ethically dispose of clothes in her wardrobe. 

Megan BarrettMegan Barrett (Image: Supplied) After setting up an Instagram page to sell a few pieces, and seeing it blow up (with over 2,000 followers at the time of writing), Megan decided to set it up as a full-time business. 

And after a few years of pop-up shops, she has now set up at Unit 63 in Carlisle's Market Hall, officially moving in on September 28. 

Speaking to the News & Star, Megan said: "Cora’s cloakroom was born during lockdown and was inspired by a big wardrobe clear out! I set up an Instagram page to sell a few pieces and to my surprise it just took off.

"I’ve always had an interest in vintage and clothing that’s a bit out of the ordinary, so doing this for my full time job is a dream come true."

Inside the shopInside the shop (Image: Supplied) Megan's first stall has been three years in the making after selling her wares at a wide range of places and spaces, and she is very excited about what the future holds for her in the historic market hall.

She added: "I have been doing pop up shops, festivals and markets since 2021 but this is my first permanent stall and I’m very excited to be here. I currently offer a wide range of men’s and women’s clothing (all of which is ethically sourced or handmade), homeware and accessories.

"Clothing ranges from the 1920s up to 00s and every item is totally unique."

It's Megan's first permanent stallIt's Megan's first permanent stall (Image: Supplied) After other market hall businesses spoke out recently about the lack of footfall, Megan urged the people of Carlisle to come along to support her and other businesses in the hall. 

She said: "There are still lots of small businesses in the market offering a diverse range of goods and services at very reasonable prices.

"Please shop small and support your local traders where possible - we all do a happy dance with every purchase!"

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