Rocket Retro in The Arcade, Newark, offers mix of music with indie and retro fashion

A colourful hidden gem in the heart of Newark offers the chance to mix music with the world of indie and retro fashion.

Rocket Retro in The Arcade is known by many people in Newark to be a high-end fashion or a charity shop, to which the owner describes it as indie and retro with vintage musically led.

The owner Maxine Hoole-Jackson first started as a hairdresser about eight years ago, and together with her friend started doing hair at vintage events.

With an interest in vintage clothes reproduction, Maxime rented a wardrobe in the back of a shop and started selling plus size clothes.

Maxine said: “I sold small sizes as well but my main aim was larger ladies.”

The name of her previous business was already called Rocket Retro.

She added: “I’ve always been interested in different fashions and if I haven’t been able to buy I’d make it. I don’t like shopping mainstream.

“I started looking for vintage clothing, and as I’ve always had a music interest I kind of took it down the music route rather than fashion.”

Covid was a tough time for all businesses, however Maxine who sells big brands including Hell Bunny, Lindy Bop and her most popular Run & Fly dungarees, carried on online.

Maxine, who is a full-time carer for her daughter, took part in the government’s New Start scheme to retrain people affected by long-term health issues after covid-19.

She said: “I’ve always wanted to be in training but I never got around to it and obviously being a small shop I pay for my own wage, I don’t have enough money to pay another person a wage so this was ideal.”

The scheme lasted for 13-weeks and Maxime welcomed two new workers into her shop as a result.

“I like to give everyone a chance,” said Maxime.

“It was difficult at first because you obviously have to get used to people in your way and I tried not to be an employer.”

“I know these people haven’t been at work for a long time.

“I have a special needs child myself so I understand fully where they are coming from.”

Maxine describes her shop as a lovely social experience.