Monday 24 March 2025 marked the launch of ‘Style Arcades’ podcast – the new go-to platform by Victoria Leeds focused on bringing back the magic in midlife through fashion, culture and style

Whilst many 45-plus midlifers report feeling like they’re being left on the high-street sidelines, females in this group make up over 41% of the total spend within Victoria Leeds*. Style Arcades has been created as a space of inspiration for the centre’s stylish customers, dedicated to exploring those in-depth conversations about things that matter in this time of life for self-rediscovery and finding meaningful experiences.

Hosted by northern presenter and broadcast journalist, Michelle Eagleton, Style Arcades is filmed in a dedicated podcast studio on-location and aims to spark conversation on the northern retail scene. It brings together the high-end brands within the centre with local influencers, each episode created with Victoria Leeds’ shoppers inmind. Discovery is at the heart of the podcast, where Michelle delves into relevant, interesting topics, uncovering untold stories in all corners of lifestyle, fashion, homeware, beauty and culture.

The debut episode features Marisa Hordern, founder and creative director of London-based demi-fine jewellery brand, Missoma, alongside ex-nursery teacher, mid-life fashion model and body confidence advocate, Rachel Peru. Discussing everything from starting up a successful, female-led retail business from the kitchen table that now attracts celebrity customers, to finding a renewed sense of confidence, saying ‘yes’, and walking the runway in later life.

Jo Coburn, Centre Director at Victoria Leeds, said: “This podcast is all about injecting the sparkle and visibility into midlife through conversation, discovery and a healthy dose of style. It’s been a long time in the making – we know our customers adore Victoria Leeds, but we also know how curious, daring and individual they are. We wanted to launch a platform that would really tease out all those hidden, real stories from our arcades, shoppers and brands, creating something that people actively want to tune into.

“We know that this fabulous demographic of females feel frustrated and largely ignored by society. Style Arcades is all about connecting with people on a much deeper level than simply what they might buy next. We want to inspire and spark insightful conversation on true-life topics that make people feel heard and valued – discussing topics such as business and entrepreneurship, to family, friendship and everything in-between, all linked by a common love for style and northern culture.”

Victoria Leeds is home to many premium brands who offer a range of clothing that appeals to the fashionable midlife customer. From Mint Velvet, the home of relaxed glamour, Phase Eight, and Whistles, to Jigsaw, COS and the recently supersized flagship store of Hobbs. Most of the stores within Victoria Leeds offer a tailored styling service, and the mix of brands dedicated to skincare, beauty, fragrance, accessories and dining experiences means a visit becomes so much more than just a trip to the shops.

Style Arcades is now available to listen to and watch on all main platforms including YouTube, Spotify, Amazon and Apple Podcasts, here. Episodes are filmed on location at Victoria Gate in a specialist podcast studio, styled by North Home featuring wall art by Castle Fine Art gallery. One episode is planned to bereleased per month, along with two specially-themed episodes planned at key moments in the year.

*Shopper Demographic data from CACI and Victoria Leeds. Females aged 45+ represent 41% of the total spend within Victoria Leeds, based on 2024 visitation data.

For exclusive previews on content, or to catch the highlights of conversations, follow Style Arcades on Instagram @stylearcadespodcast.

For more information, visit the Victoria Leeds website at this link.