Melbourne fashion retailer Feathers Boutique has made the difficult decision to wind up operations after 53 years in business.
The closure will impact 35 employees, with nine retail locations shutting doors and the wrap up of select David Jones concessions. A clearance sale has begun this week.
The closure is also expected to impact the local manufacturing industry, with more than 50 per cent of its stock manufactured locally in Melbourne.
Feathers was founded in 1972 by Margaret Porritt, who is now aged 85. Feathers grew from a single Melbourne store stocking Australian designers to producing its own range across nationwide locations.
New Autumn/Winter stock is expected to arrive shortly, giving customers a final chance to buy from the long-running brand.
"I started Feathers as a single mum with a dream, and while closing is a difficult decision, I feel that at almost 86 it’s a positive way forward,” Porritt said. “I wish to retire with dignity and a full heart on something that was built with love and joy.
"I'm grateful to every customer who made us part of their wardrobe over these 53 years."