Regatta Designer Clothes on Bell Street

Walk into Regatta Designer Clothes on Bell Street and the air carries a faint hint of fresh linen, the kind that lingers from neatly folded cashmere throws. This spot at number 25 has carved out its niche over the years, focusing on womenswear that bridges the gap between boardroom polish and weekend wanderings.

Owned and run by a team who know their stock inside out, the shop stocks pieces from brands like Dea Kudibal for those floaty linen dresses perfect for Hampshire summers, or DL1961 jeans that hold their shape through countless countryside rambles.

The rails here groan under a thoughtful edit: think Suncoo kaftans in earthy tones that nod to the New Forest’s palette, or Marella blazers cut sharp enough for a day in Southampton but soft enough not to chafe on the drive back.

Accessories fill the shelves too, from Orelia Jewellery’s delicate gold chains to Rino & Pelle’s leather totes, sturdy yet chic for lugging around Abbey markets or popping into the local deli. Vilagallo brings bold prints that inject colour into grey afternoons, while Nooki’s activewear line keeps things practical without skimping on flair.

It’s the sort of place where you might snag a Hale Bob kaftan for a riverside picnic or Max & Moi trousers that transition seamlessly from office to evening drinks at the White Horse.

What sets the selection apart is the emphasis on versatility. Cocoa Cashmere jumpers come in hues from classic camel to vibrant teal, layered over Five Jeans for that effortless look Romsey folk favour when heading to the test ground or a quick coffee at Crosfield Hall.

The shop’s online presence mirrors this, with easy browsing for those too far to stroll Bell Street, though nothing beats the in-person try-on, feeling the fabric’s weight against your skin.

Brands like Ashiana add ethical twists, with organic cotton scarves from Ombre that wrap around necks during crisp autumn walks along the Test Way.

Francetti Bond’s footwear slots in neatly, offering low-heeled boots that handle cobbled streets without a wobble, paired with Alpe sandals for warmer spells. Connock’s scented candles and diffusers sneak in as gifts, their lavender notes evoking the town’s own herb gardens.

Other Trend’s relaxed shirts round out the mix, ideal for layering under a Vilagallo coat when the weather turns. The boutique’s layout encourages lingering, with wide aisles and mirrors that catch the light filtering through sash windows, making the space feel airy despite the bounty on display.

Reviews paint a picture of highs and lows. Shoppers rave about the “fantastic range” and “gorgeous clothing”, often highlighting “friendly service” and “knowledgeable assistance” that turns browsing into a tailored hunt. One recent visitor called it a “pleasant shopping experience” for its curated vibe.

Yet not all feedback sings the same tune; a 2022 account decried “disgusting attitude” from staff, leaving a sour note on what could have been a highlight. With an average of 2.5 stars from a handful of Yell ratings, opinions split between the treasures found and service slips. Most agree the stock justifies the detour, especially for those seeking pieces that last beyond trends.

Bell Street itself buzzes with similar independents, from bookshops to butchers, making a morning here a full circuit of small-scale finds. Regatta fits right in, stocking items that suit the town’s rhythm: functional yet refined, ready for whatever the day throws up, be it a sudden shower or an impromptu gathering.