What does it take to build an independent business that customers genuinely love?
In this episode of Style Arcades, Michelle is joined by two inspiring founders: Lisa Angel, founder and Creative Director of the award-winning gifting and jewellery brand Lisa Angel, and Holly Kragiopoulus, co-founder and CEO of North Star Coffee Roasters. Together, they explore the realities of building businesses with purpose, personality and longevity.
From turning passion into a profession to creating brands that become part of people’s daily lives, Lisa and Holly share the defining moments of their entrepreneurial journeys, the lessons they’ve learned along the way, and what they believe sets truly great independent businesses apart. The conversation covers everything from creativity and customer connection to community, sustainability, branding and leadership.
They also discuss the challenges and misconceptions of being a founder, the importance of supporting local and female-founded businesses, and what consumers will value most in the years ahead. Plus, stay tuned for quick-fire questions covering coffee orders, style icons, favourite gifts and the small things currently bringing them joy.

In episode 15 of Style Arcades, we’re joined by Nicholas Nicola, founder of Allertons, and celebrity makeup artist Sally Rowe, founder of Sally Rowe Beauty, for an honest, expert-led conversation on the evolution of modern beauty.

From the shift towards enhanced natural beauty to the truth behind trending topics like glass skin and microneedling, this episode cuts through the noise to reveal what actually works. Together, Nick and Sally share their insight on the products, treatments and techniques that deliver real results, from achieving healthy, radiant skin to using makeup in a way that lifts and enhances rather than hides.

We also explore Sally’s journey from modelling at 14 to working on red carpets and launching her own beauty brand, alongside the realities of building a business with purpose. In a deeply personal moment, she shares how her brand has become a source of strength and focus through life’s most challenging experiences.

Whether you are trying to simplify your routine, understand the latest beauty trends or feel more confident in your skin, this episode is packed with honest, empowering advice.

Topics include:
Glass skin, microneedling and what actually works
The shift to natural, “less is more” beauty
Skincare vs makeup — how they work together
Confidence, ageing and evolving beauty routines

Keep up to date with new episodes and behind the scenes insights on our Instagram @stylearcadespodcast, and don’t forget to give us a like if you enjoyed this episode!

Studio artwork by Castle Fine Art and studio furniture/decor by John Lewis Home Styling.

Step behind the scenes of Victoria Leeds Fashion Week in this special episode of Style Arcades, as Michelle Eagleton takes you from concept to catwalk for an exclusive look at the making of the third edition of VLFW.

Filmed during the week itself, Michelle is joined by stylist Laura Fawcett, one of the creative forces behind the show’s looks, alongside model and previous Style Arcades guest Rachel Peru, who shares what it feels like to step onto the VLFW runway. The episode also features an exclusive sit down with celebrity stylist Karen Williams in The Cut & Craft, who has styled some of the world’s most recognisable names, from Beyoncé to David Beckham.
Expect backstage moments, runway-ready looks and expert insight into the trends, styling decisions and standout details that shaped this year’s event. From Laura’s approach to curating a multi-brand runway, to Rachel’s perspective from the catwalk and Karen’s advice on finding your fabulous, this is your front-row pass to the making of a premium fashion week in the heart of Leeds.