WWB MAGAZINE AUGUST ISSUE 258 by fashion buyers Ltd

WOMENSWEAR BUYER wwb-online.co.uk AUGUST 2016/ ISSUE 258/ £6.95

SHOW TIME MODA MOMENTS WWB’s comprehensive guide to this month’s show FASHIONING THE FUTURE Marc Aurel’s renewed ambitions for UK market growth BELLA ITALIA Latte’s success as the British brand with Italian heart

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LIFE BY THE COAST

WWB’s contemporary womenswear shoot, capturing the key trends and looks of the season.

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THE ITALIAN JOB

How Latte grew from small niche player to boutique favourite

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ALL THE GLAMOUR

The key brands in evening and occasionwear in the spotlight

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STYLE HUNTER

The best products from the Berlin shows.

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RETAIL FORUM

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E-TAIL CLINIC

Expert e-commerce advice

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THE LAST WORD

With WeSC’s Carin Wester

EDITOR’S COMMENT

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The other side of Womenswear

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TALKING POINT

Your views on the issues shaping the industry

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With Radley’s Natalie Bolton

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FAIRYTALE ENDING

Marc Aurel’s new focus on the UK market

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STYLE FILE

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URBAN PUNK

Zips and buckles create a directional look to get in-store now

43/ S P R I N G / S U M M E R 1 7 A T MODA WWB’s comprehensive guide to the Birmingham show

FRONT COVER: JOHNSTONS OF ELGIN 020 7227 3131

NEW COLLECTION

Transitional Looks New Knitwear Collection New Delivery Options

SPRING/SUMMER 2017 Please call your local sales agent or email, to book an appointment: South East Helen Groom: 07986 434346 Wales, Midlands & North West Nick Sturmey: 07976 700312 South West Joanna Sturmey: 07792 280617 North East Susan Hardcastle: 07718 037262 Scotland Richard Kaye: 07825 187574 Ireland Jimmy Burns: 07740 794461 891 Great West Road, Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 5PD UK. Call: 020 8560 2323 Email: sales@adini.co.uk www.adini.co.uk

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Editor Isabella Griffiths isabella@ras-publishing.com Contributors Christina Williams christina@ras-publishing.com Victoria Jackson victoria@ras-publishing.com Laura Turner laura@ras-publishing.com Writer Rebecca Jackson rebecca.jackson@ras-publishing.com Design & production Michael Podger mick@ras-publishing.com

Editor’s comment Isabella Griffiths

Clive Holloway clive@ras-publishing.com James Lindley james@ras-publishing.com Richard Boyle richard@ras-publishing.com Sales manager Sam Chambers sam@ras-publishing.com Editorial director Gill Brabham gill@ras-publishing.com Portfolio director Nick Cook nick@ras-publishing.com Marketing director Stephanie Parker stephanie.parker@ite-exhibitions.com Managing director Colette Tebbutt colette@ras-publishing.com Reprographics & printing ImageData Group 01482 652323

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As the dust settles on the recent EU referendum, reports on the impact of the Brexit vote on retail come in, and they are as contrary as the opposing sides of the poll themselves. Various analytics, including those from the BRC (British Retail Consortium) and Verdict Research, have found that retail sales in the immediate aftermath of the referendum fell, with consumer confidence continuing to nosedive. According to the latest stats from Verdict, worries about the economy, price hikes and personal finances have caused consumer confidence to plummet to a 12-month low following the referendum, with 39 per cent of consumers expecting to spend more on food and grocery at the expense of less essential things, including clothing and entertainment. Young people in particular are said to be much more pessimistic about the future than older age groups, who tended to vote for Brexit. Obviously, that’s not what our industry wants to hear. However, other reports, including those of e-commerce intelligence firm IMRG, suggest that spend online has not been affected at all, and has in fact grown by 17 per cent year-on-year in June. So what’s the real story? The only sensible answer is that it’s too early to tell what the real impact – short, medium and long term – will be, and I think there is a danger that too much speculation too early can have a detrimental effect on shoppers’ mindsets; we can literally talk ourselves into an early recession!

This is a sentiment that seems to resonate with many of you. I have been talking to a lot of indies and brand leaders about this very subject, and most are really concerned about the media’s role in talking the economy down and creating an atmosphere of fear – which, as we all know, is poison for fashion retail, which depends in some respect on people’s frivolity and a positive, carefree mindset. Interestingly, most of the people I spoke to have adapted a very pragmatic approach themselves and – maybe in typical British fashion – are keeping calm and carrying on, determined to tackle any new hurdles as they come and as they have done for many years through economic ups and downs. So let’s try to stay optimistic, too. With this in mind, this issue is packed with positive stories of success. From Marc Aurel’s renewed focus on the UK market to Latte having become one of the most loved British boutique labels with Italian flair, there is a lot to be confident about. And let’s not forget our national trade shows, which are such important dates on the seasonal calendar. This issue once again brings you the essential guide to Moda, which presents a bolstered offer across contemporary womenswear, evening and occasionwear, footwear, accessories, lingerie & swimwear, as well as a new Active section, reflecting the flourishing athleisure trend. The WWB team will be out in force, so if you see us, please do say hello and share your views and opinions – we’d love to hear from you.

WWB is a fashion business publication produced by ITE Moda Ltd. Other titles include MWB and CWB. ITE Moda Ltd is an ITE Group PLC company

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BREXIT – THE IMPACT ON FASHION RETAIL While high street footfall declined, online sales soared – analysts agree it is too early to predict the long-term effects of the referendum on retail sales.

The referendum results in favour of Brexit will ensure that inflation returns to the clothing and footwear sector, owing to the sharp decline in the pound and the expectation that it will remain weak for some time, resulting in increased import costs, analyst Verdict Retail has predicted. A report into the impact of Brexit on UK fashion retail reveals that currency hedging will protect retailers in the short term, but that higher costs are expected to filter in from the back end of Q2 2017. Only once Article 50 is invoked, and new trade agreements are reached, will retailers have more visibility on any changes to tariffs that could further drive up costs. Re-evaluation of supply chains will be crucial to remaining competitive and Verdict expects retailers to negotiate harder with suppliers as a result. The report warns that few clothing players will be able to fully absorb increased costs, or risk weakening margins, resulting in price hikes for consumers, which will most likely damage volume growth. Midmarket players will be able to justify higher prices through investment in style, quality and service; in contrast, price increases at value retailers will be much more evident and remaining competitive on price will be crucial to appeal to more prudent shoppers. “UK consumers now place far more importance on quality and value for money, ensuring that retailers who opt to minimise costs by downgrading the quality of fabrics and fit to protect margins will lose favour with shoppers,” says the report’s

author Kate Ormrod, senior analyst at Verdict Retail. “Giving shoppers justification to make a purchase is vital in order to gain favour over competitors, so clothing and footwear retailers must exploit the point of difference in their propositions in order to seize shoppers’ limited spend. Those clothing retailers that channel investment across innovation, technology and responsiveness to further differentiate their proposition will strengthen their position in the market, and allow them to take advantage of the opportunities created by weaker players that do not respond to shifting consumer sentiment or invest in protecting future sales growth,” she adds. In real terms, it appears too early to assess an immediate impact of the Brexit vote on retail sales. While footfall and sales seem to have declined on the high street, online sales have not been affected. The BRC-KPMG sales monitor for June revealed that UK retail sales decreased by 0.5 per cent on a like-for-like basis from June 2015, when they had increased 1.8 per cent from the preceding year, covering the five weeks 29 May to 2 July. On a total basis, sales rose 0.2 per cent against a 2.9 per cent increase in June 2015, which had been the third best performance of 2015. Meanwhile, the IMRG Capgemini eRetail Sales Index revealed that online sales have mainly remained unaffected by Brexit jitters, with e-commerce sales having soared by 17 per cent year on year in June, with mobile sales on smartphones continuing to drive this strong growth.

FOR DAILY NEWS, ANALYSIS AND UPDATES, VISIT WWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

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NEWS IN BRIEF

LIZ D’ESTERRE FASHION AGENCY LAUNCHES

CACHAREL OPENS FLAGSHIP STORE

A new agency is opening its doors for s/s 17 with a portfolio of brands featuring French collections Aventures des Toiles, Paul Brial and Eva Kayan, plus UK label Ariana. Liz d’Esterre, who is well known in the industry, having spent her career in sales roles for the likes of Frank Usher, Betty Barclay, Gardeur, Passport and most recently Bianca, is launching her eponymous agency, targeting contemporary fashion boutiques at the mid to upper end of the market. “Having spent over 30 years working for a wealth of international brands, I look forward to building on my experience and continuing to represent a great portfolio of labels and developing them with independents up and down the country,” says d’Esterre. The brands will be available to view at the agency’s Central London showroom at the Grange Langham Court Hotel until 19 August. Aventures des Toiles and Ariana will also be shown at this month’s Moda Woman.

French fashion house Cacharel has opened a new flagship store in the chic Parisian district of Rue de Buci. The concept store is the first to showcase Cacharel’s new creative direction and brand repositioning, which will become the blueprint for future retail expansion, with openings in Strasbourg, Marseille, Nimes and Lille to follow in September before a further roll-out globally. The store was designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel and features wooden floors and large wall panels in a russet-and-gold palette inspired by a William Turner painting. “It’s young, but it has personality,” says Jean Bousquet, Cacharel’s president, who reveals plans for a further roll-out of global franchise stores. “What we would like to develop for next season is corners, also designed by Nouvel, in all department stores, whether in France or overseas. We also think it’s important to open stand-alone stores in city centres, because some city centres have lost their personality,” he adds.

UK EXPANSION FOR ISABELL AND POLARBEAR German outerwear brands Isabell and Polarbear are set to ramp up their presence in the UK market, tapping into increased demand for specialist, contemporary outerwear labels. Isabell, which will relaunch to the UK this season, and sister label Polarbear, a new market launch, will make an appearance at Moda Woman this month, with the aim to push ahead with expansion among independent retailers in the UK and Ireland. Both brands are positioned between Lebek and Fuchs & Schmitt, catering for women who look for modern jackets suitable for a busy and active life with a high demand on style, quality and fit.

EMRECO HITS MILESTONE BIRTHDAY UK womenswear label Emreco is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, a significant milestone for the Glasgow firm. Launched in 1926, Emreco is stocked in 350 retail accounts in the UK and Ireland and is among the key labels in UK mainstream womenswear. The brand, a thirdgeneration family business headed by managing director Richard Reinhold, will be marking its big birthday with a gathering for customers on its stand at next month’s Moda Woman. MARC CAIN LAUNCHES FITWEAR RANGE Marc Cain has launched a Fitwear Capsule Collection for s/s 17, tapping into the growing athleisure trend. The range combines functionality, style and convenience and is made up of coordinating sports items such as shorts, leggings, bustiers, jackets, waistcoats and zip-up jackets. Bold colours, animal and petal prints dominate, while silhouettes are slim, form-fitting and ergonomic. The range was launched at last month’s Panorama Berlin, where a ‘Fitroom’ was installed as a centrepiece of the stand. JOHN LEWIS PARTNERS WITH MYER British retailer John Lewis is expanding its international presence with a partnership with Australian department store Myer to open shop-in-shops within six of its branches. The departments will be between 600-850 sq ft in size and will house key John Lewis own brand home and lifestyle products across bed, bath, and living. The first shop-in-shop will open before December in Myer’s newly refurbished Warringah store in the outskirts of Sydney. This will be followed by additional openings in Melbourne, Perth, Bondi, Chadstone, and Myer’s flagship store in Sydney in February 2017.

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NEWS IN BRIEF

MODA LAUNCHES ACTIVE AREA

WACOAL SELLS HUIT

Birmingham trade show Moda will launch Active this season, a brand new area showcasing a range of activewear, athleisure, sports bras and sports swimwear. Located within Moda Lingerie & Swimwear, Active will target womenswear and lingerie buyers alike seeking contemporary apparel that transcends the sports and lifestyle sectors. Confirmed signings within the area include Björn Borg (pictured), Acai Activewear, Freya Active, Panache Sport, Anita Active, Leg Code, Pepper & Mayne, Jilla Active and Control Body Activewear. Puma will also showcase a range of bodywear alongside the Active platform, while event sponsor Invista will present an installation of its Active Fibre and innovations in Lycra. Although Active is located within Moda Lingerie & Swimwear, the area harbours a wide appeal across the womenswear and intimate apparel sectors. For the brands themselves, the wider fashion context of the UK’s national trade exhibition for fashion is a fitting reflection of the evolution of modern-day sportswear.

International intimate apparel house Wacoal Europe has sold the lingerie and swimwear brand Huit to Trendy Capital, owner of nightwear brand Canat, and it will no longer be a part of its group portfolio. The decision is in line with the company’s strategy to grow its European and international presence and strengthen its substantial fuller bust business. Wacoal Europe acquired French lingerie and swimwear brand Huit out of administration in 2010 and since this time has invested heavily in trying to improve its success, with an expanded distribution base and a considerably developed swimwear offer. Despite this, no significant growth has been achieved, which Wacoal attributes to “a very challenging and highly saturated competitor market”. Under its new ownership by Trendy Capital the Huit business will be known as Huit France. Wacoal Europe will continue to support the Huit business for the next two seasons across all of its markets to ensure a smooth transition.

FENN WRIGHT MANSON TO LAUNCH PETITE RANGE Fenn Wright Manson is set to launch a new petite range. Launching in September, the range features carefully selected key pieces from the core collection which have been reduced proportionally in size to suit women 5ft 3 and under. The range will also offer a capsule of exclusives including feminine shifts, tailored jumpsuits and eveningwear. Offering contemporary pieces and structured tailoring, the collection follows the handwriting of the main range and has a working wardrobe at the core of its design aesthetic. Sizing for the petite collection will start from UK 8 up to a UK 18. The range will be available online at www.fennwrightmanson.com, as well as from selected John Lewis stores.

OXFORD STREET TO BE PEDESTRIANISED BY 2020 Oxford Street is set to be completely pedestrianised by 2020, if changes by London Mayor Sadiq Khan are carried out. According to a report by the BBC, Mayor Khan’s office said that the plan is to ban all traffic, including buses and taxis from the world famous shopping street in an effort to combat air pollution and make shopping a safer experience. The ban will take place in two stages, with the first phase directed at the eastern section of the street, between Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Circus. There is already a ban on cars for most of Oxford Street between 7am and 7pm each day, apart from Sunday. LULULEMON TO OPEN ON REGENT STREET Technical athletic apparel company, Lululemon – famed for its yoga-inspired sportswear – is set to open a new 8,200 sq ft European flagship store this winter on London’s Regent Street. In collaboration with Regent Street landlord, The Crown Estate, the Canadian lifestyle brand’s new flagship store will span three floors at 187-189 Regent Street. NEARST AIMS TO ADD £4BN A YEAR TO UK HIGH STREET Retail tech start-up NearSt aims to bridge £4bn in sales for high street retailers in the UK by connecting products in local shops to smartphones. The platform allows people to order products for instant collection and 1-hour delivery, beating any other existing offer from online site such as Amazon. NearSt has launched its website, www.near.st, and mobile app through which consumers, initially in London, will be able to buy books across the city and later this month expanding to thousands more products including consumer electronics, DIY goods, health and beauty products, sportswear, stationery and gift shop services.

Showing at MODA, NEC Birmingham, Stand X51 - Moda White Contact: Andy Thompson Tel: 0161 236 9251 Email: andythompson@bluewatchuk.com 2nd Floor, Rutland House, 18 Hilton Street, Manchester, M1 1FR

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NEWS IN BRIEF

ANIMAL OPENS BLUEWATER STORE

BURBERRY ANNOUNCE NEW LEADERSHIP ROLES

Animal, the UK action sports and lifestyle brand, has opened a new store in Kent’s Bluewater Shopping Centre. Located in the Upper Rose Gallery, the 1,722 sq ft store houses all the latest Animal collections, featuring lifestyle wear and accessories. To celebrate the launch, Animal hosted a live yoga event in-store, with the first 50 customers each receiving a free goodie bag. There were additional promotional activities in-store throughout the whole weekend, including the chance to win an exclusive surf and yoga retreat with Animal Advocates Philly Lewis and threetime British Surf Champion, Alan Stokes. “We are delighted to be bringing the Animal brand to Bluewater and welcoming its many visitors to our new store. It is a fantastic opportunity for us to expand our retail presence and allow people to experience the brand and the lifestyle it reflects first hand,” says Joel Pickering, Animal’s head of brand and marketing.

Burberry has announced new roles within its senior team, as part of its ongoing business review that is targeting future growth opportunities in retail, product and digital. Christopher Bailey, CEO since 2013, will now take on the role of president and chief creative officer, overseeing all elements of the brand and design. Marco Gobbetti has been appointed chief executive officer, and will be responsible for all commercial, operational and financial elements of the business. Gobbetti – currently chairman and CEO of French luxury brands Céline – will join the board in 2017, with Bailey moving to his new role at the same time. Meanwhile, Julie Brown has been appointed to the new role of Chief Operating & Financial Officer. Reporting to the CEO, Brown will join the business and the board in early 2017 and will have responsibility for finance, investor relations, IT, global business services and business transformation.

ASOS UNVEILS ONE-HOUR SLOT DELIVERY OPTION Global e-tailer Asos is set to offer its most flexible customer service delivery option to date, allowing customers the choice of day and exact hour to receive their orders. In a bid to offer the most personable and customer-friendly delivery on the high street, the company will use courier service DPD, and its new delivery option, Precise. “Precise is another first for Asos and a huge leap forward on our customer focused delivery proposition,” says Matt Rogers, director of delivery solutions, Asos. “Our customers love getting their deliveries quickly and tell us they want control and choice over how and when their parcels arrive. Precise gives them exactly that.” Like most delivery companies, DPD notifies Asos customers by email or text of their next day delivery slot. The difference is the customer will be able to choose either the original delivery slot via the notification, or to change it to a preferred hour. Deliveries are despatched seven days a week between 11am and 5pm.

FLANNELS OPENS IN GATESHEAD Premium fashion retailer Flannels has opened its doors at the Intu Metrocentre, Gateshead, adding to its current portfolio that includes Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Leeds. The 9,000 sq ft store offers contemporary menswear and womenswear, footwear and accessories from the likes of Hugo Boss, Jimmy Choo, Y-3 and Moschino. NEW COLLECTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR FOR BELSTAFF British heritage brand Belstaff has appointed Delphine Ninous to the role of collection creative director, with immediate effect. Previously vice president of women’s design at Belstaff, Ninous will lead both men’s and women’s design teams. Her key priority will be to plan the presentation of s/s 17 during London Fashion Week this September, and to work on the development of the a/w 17 collection. MUSTO SET TO EXPAND WHOLESALE BUSINESS Performance clothing brand Musto has appointed Steve Jepson as head of sales, shortly after the appointment of Simon Rosenberg as head of retail. Reporting to Commercial Director Simon Busby, Jepson will focus on strategies to strengthen and grow the brand’s core specialist distribution while building a complementary presence in premium department stores and multiple channels. FASHION SVP RETURNS The next edition of leading manufacturing show Fashion SVP will take place on 15-16 November at London’s Olympia. Held over two days, the event offers the latest information on sourcing, hosting a hand-picked selection of manufacturers able to meet the varied demands of retailers, brands, designers and large importers. Leading suppliers from the UK, Europe and Mediterranean region will be present, showcasing their products and services.

CMY

Spring/Summer 2017 SIZE RANGE: 8-30 ALL GODSKE BRANDS SHOWING AT THE FOLLOWING VENUES Moda UK NEC Birmingham – Hall 20, Stand: U41 and U51 7 August to 9 August 2016 CIFF Copenhagen Bella Centre – B3 – 241 10 August to 14 August 2016 Dublin Showroom Weekend 14 August to 16 August 2016

LONDON SHOWROOM: Godske Group UK. Showroom: 65 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SP Tel: 0207 636 3063 Fax: 0207 636 3863 Email: pug@godske.com DUBLIN SHOWROOM: Godske Group Ireland, Unit 5, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24 Tel: 00353 1 4295042 Fax: 00353 1 4295043

Spring/Summer 2017 SIZE RANGE: 8-30 ALL GODSKE BRANDS SHOWING AT THE FOLLOWING VENUES Moda UK NEC Birmingham – Hall 20, Stand: U41 and U51, 7 August to 9 August 2016 CIFF Copenhagen, Bella Centre – B3 – 241, 10 August to 14 August 2016 Dublin Showroom Weekend 14 August to 16 August 2016 LONDON SHOWROOM: Godske Group UK. Showroom: 65 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SP Tel: 0207 636 3063 Fax: 0207 636 3863 Email: pug@godske.com DUBLIN SHOWROOM: Godske Group Ireland, Unit 5, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24 Tel: 00353 1 4295042 Fax: 00353 1 4295043

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Backstage

The events, campaigns and parties not to miss 01/ ICONIC GALAXY DRESS CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the iconic Galaxy Dress, creator Roland Mouret has unveiled a limited edition capsule collection, available in seven colours. The French fashion house will see its second blogger collaboration for the launch of ‘Ten Years of the Galaxy Dress’ with international fashion blogger and style influencer Denni Elias of Chicmuse. Known to many simply as ‘that dress’, the Galaxy became one of fashion’s most revolutionary and sought after pieces and has made style history, continuing to be worn by celebrities the world over. 02/ MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL Last month, shopping centres around the country removed some of their changing room mirrors in a bid to make shoppers feel better about themselves and less body conscious. The initiative comes in response to new research which revealed that almost three quarters of British women (71 per cent) don’t feel confident buying a new outfit after they’ve tried it on and looked in the changing room mirror. Birmingham’s Bullring, Bristol’s Cabot Circus and Croydon’s Centrale were among those shopping malls who took part in the event. 01/

03/ JD WILLIAMS’ BIKINI SELFIE CAMPAIGN JD Williams has launched its Bikini Selfie campaign fronted by two fabulous models, both over the age of 50. The campaign features Sports Illustrated model Nicola Griffin, 56, and former top model Jilly Johnson, 62, and aims to encourage women to feel confident in their swimwear whatever their age, shape or size. “The fashion industry is constantly criticised for its lack of representation of real women. With the help of Nicola and Jilly, we want to empower women and inspire them to feel confident enough to post photos in their swimwear, no matter what their body shape,” says PR manager Suzi Burns. 04/ WINNERS OF INTERNATIONAL WOOLMARK PRIZE ANNOUNCED Cottweiler and Faustine Steinmetz have been named the respective menswear and womenswear winners of the 2016 International Woolmark Prize British Isles regional final. A jury including Topman creative director Gordon Richardson, editor of British GQ Dylan Jones and deputy editor of British Vogue Anita Barr, selected the winners at an awards ceremony held at the Australian High Commission in London. “Both winners displayed an innate understanding of the fibre, a keen commercial sensibility and a great design aesthetic,” said Jones.

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Talking Point

Your views on the issues shaping the industry Beyond Brexit: Industry relationships

MELISSA WHEELER is a fashion industry commentator and can be contacted on Twitter @melissavwheeler. A lot has been said in the fashion industry on the fallout from Brexit and I have no doubt that the topic will continue to fill many more pages. Given the umbilical link the fashion industry has and will continue to have with Europe and the wider world, these are issues we need to be discussing. However, I would like to explore one underlying theme which has become apparent and speaks a larger truth: flexibility and

Transitioning our store with the customer at heart

CLAIRE WHITE Fashion Buyer, Williams & Griffin Ltd, Colchester. Williams & Griffin is a Fenwick store and is a member of the Fashion Association of Britain (FAB) She was speaking to FAB Retail Columnist Melissa Wheeler. I always look forward to the new season and this typically coincides with the buying season. We’ve

co-operation. Naturally, there will be ‘winners’ and ‘losers’ as the UK invokes Article 50 and as the markets and exchange rates stabilise. Suppliers may struggle as their margins are slashed by manufacturers; while retailers are likely to be protective of their margins to keep customer confidence and stay competitive. At some stage, these conflicting needs will meet and, as ever, the relationships which bind this fantastic industry together will be tested. With or without this new stress to the bridge which connects all players, the marketplace is challenging right now. There are enough headwinds to contend with, from a wet June right through to Brexit and the usual challenges of running a fashion business, without having to face intransigence and conflict. It’s really important that both suppliers and retailers consider each other’s positions and go that extra mile to support each other through this tricky time. Hash Ladha, chief operating officer of Oasis and Warehouse, recently put it like this: “We couldn’t do our jobs without them [suppliers] so we treat them with as much respect as we would do our customers.” Equally, it’s no more helpful for a retailer to cancel an entire order at the 11th

hour because of weather-induced ‘cold feet’ than it is for a supplier to be inflexible on payments or returned faulty items. Both parties’ cases deserve empathy and those who play the long-term game tend to arrive at a far more successful outcome. What should also give retailers something to smile about is how the consumer is valuing a lot more above price right now. Sure, money talks and competitive pricing is non-negotiable, but the realisation that ‘experience’ and ‘personalisation’ are fast becoming priorities is news to be welcomed. Customers will pay for a true shopping experience and this gives retailers, especially bricks and mortar ones, a much-needed opportunity to stand out from the competition. As Mary Portas recently said at Monetate’s European Summit 2016, “The shift in experience has to go back to bricks-and-mortar,” citing M&S’s strong product and not-so-strong ‘experience’. So, yes we are indeed in limbo; there is a lack of clarity on the future and what the terms of Article 50 will involve. But I believe that the best attitude is to embrace these realities with a ‘bring it on’ approach. It should be a case of ‘business as usual’ and ‘usual’ should involve strong relationships, flexibility and creativity.

been working really hard over the last couple of seasons preparing for the new store which will launch in September [Williams & Griffin has been undergoing a £38m refurbishment before relaunching as Fenwick, Colchester]. We’ve been looking at our brand mix to ensure that our departments ‘make sense’ and provide everything for that customer’s lifestyle. The transition from the ‘old’ store to the new one has forced us to look again at our current offer and tighten up. In some cases, we’ve stripped back quite a few brands in an effort to better focus on our core ones and make space for some new names. We want the new store to excite and inspire our existing customers while attracting ones who may never have shopped with us before. Our new Contemporary offer is built upon the success of Masai, enabling us to layer on some additional brands which are new to Colchester and the Fenwick group and which have strong adjacencies. We’ve introduced Sahara from the UK; Crea from France; Vetona from Germany and Grizas from Lithuania, to name just a few. We have brought in 70 new brands in total. This department gives us an opportunity to do

something different from the high street and also protects us from the pressure to discount by offering that essential point of difference. Naturally, increasing the store size by 50 per cent and overhauling the product mix has had an impact on our s/s 17 buy. While we had pencilled the new direction and scale into our plan for some time, there are always going to be a few surprises. For this reason, we’ve left ourselves a little room for manoeuvre in the event we stumble across that brand offering ‘something special’ which every buyer hopes for. As a department store, we have to make sure we cater for a wide range of customers, from the young to the forever young. We need to make trends accessible to all ages and to all budgets and to provide a good mix of value versus designer items. In addition to product, a great retail experience involves customer service and that’s something we prioritise. In our eyes, every customer deserves a personal shopping experience, whether they are buying the £10 T-shirt or a £1,500 coat. After all, it’s the customer who will help us deliver on this new store. www.fashionassociationofbritain.co.uk

Spring/Summer 2017 collection showing at Moda, NEC stand X21 UK & Ireland contact - sam@lovebrandsuk.com - Tel. 020 7702 0203 Love Brands Limited. www.lovebrandsuk.com

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Radley London has bagged a reputation as one of the leading affordable luxury handbag and accessories brands, with plans in place for further growth and standalone stores in key city locations. Tom Bottomley gets the lowdown from Design Director Natalie Bolton. Tom Bottomley: When did you join Radley London as design director and what is your previous experience? Natalie Bolton: I became design director in November 2014. I have over 20 years’ experience designing handbags and accessories and previously worked as senior designer, then design director, alongside founder Lowell Harder from 2002-11, which gave me a good insight into the brand and its DNA. Those years with Lowell made it easy for me to slip back in as design director in 2014 when she decided to retire. TB: What is your main objective design-wise to make the product even more desirable? NB: We take inspiration from our London origin: the people, the architecture and emerging trends we see on the streets. It’s a never-ending source of inspiration and helps keep us relevant. We pride ourselves on sourcing the most premium leathers and work closely with our suppliers on the craftsmanship and construction of each bag and the attention to detail. Each one of our products is hand finished in some way. For a/w 16 we’re looking more fashion forward than ever before, with the introduction of key new trends and also a refocus back on our classics, the signature Radley London styles whose leathers and detailing make it true affordable luxury. TB: As a/w16 is your first full collection since returning to the brand, how is it different to past Radley London collections? NB: We put a lot of energy into this collection and have been a lot more experimental. We have a number of new shapes and styles that the Radley customer won’t have seen before, such as our on-trend Hamilton half-moon shoulder bag, ladylike Abbey box bags and our bold angular shape called Hardwick. They are some of our key styles for the season.

NATALIE BOLTON DESIGN DIRECTOR, RADLEY LONDON

TB: Have you added in some new ideas to freshen up the brand’s appeal? NB: The new silhouettes are definitely part of that. We have been looking at all our products and making them more modern: not only in style but also playing with colour and texture. As well as our classic, polished leathers, we now have a larger selection of grainy, more textured leather. The Duddon particularly is our new hardwearing textured leather, which has a striking oversized embossed grain and natural two-tone effect.

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TB: When was the brand first established and what were the first designs to really win over both buyers and consumers? NB: Radley London was established in 1998 at a time when black and brown handbags dominated the market. Our playful use of colour and splashes of detail caught the eye of the customer straight away; we were different from the rest. TB: Are there different sections to the collection – at different price points perhaps? NB: Our handbags range from £69 for non-leather styles up to £299 for our large premium leather bags, but the majority of our handbags sit between £179 and £199. We have a selection of other accessories including watches, luggage and small leather goods, which comprises key rings, handbag charms and an assortment of purses and wallets. We also offer a range of non-leather products and for a/w16 we have expanded our non-leather handbag range following the popularity of our ‘Pocket Essentials’ collection. TB: Who would you say is your real target market? NB: A woman who is confident in her style, who appreciates good quality leather and attention to detail and would rather invest in her handbag than fast fashion, but is not willing to pay luxury prices. She wants timeless investment pieces that fit into her everyday style. TB: Are there any new product categories for a/w16? NB: We are very excited about our new personalisation and customisation products. For Christmas we will be launching our new Love Stuck pouch with a selection of leather stickers to customise. We will also have a dedicated gifting range for the season, comprising handbags, coin purses, wallets, pouches, key rings and handbag charms in two Christmas exclusive prints inspired by stars and constellations. For a/w16 we have two exciting collaborations. Launching in September, our Made in London collection is in collaboration with the London Cloth Company, an East London mill set up by young entrepreneur Daniel Harris. This is a small capsule collection which encompasses a slouchy tote style in two colour ways, made from an exclusive cloth that I and the team designed, and woven on the restored vintage looms at the London Cloth Company.

October sees the launch of our second very exciting collaboration with young British illustrator Karen Mabon. Inspired by what you might find in a woman’s handbag – lipstick, keys, hair grips, nail file and so on – Karen has designed an exclusive print. We worked closely with Karen to produce a five-piece ‘In the Bag’ collection of leather bags and small leather goods. The print is set on a striking ruby backdrop and is available in a half moon shoulder bag, a cross-body saddle bag, a zip-top clutch, a make-up bag and handbag charm. TB: What can we expect to see for s/s 17? NB: We have a very exciting new collection: key highlights are ladylike grabs, domed backpacks, occasionwear bags, clutches in a refined colour palette offering, sleek cross-bodies and wristlets for all summer events. There’s also some new slouchy styles in beautiful butter soft leather and classic English saddle bags. We are also working on additional capsule collections for the season, including a second Made in London collection. TB: Does Radley London have any own brand stores or concessions in the UK? And are there plans for more? NB: We have 33 standalone stores across the UK, and are stocked in all John Lewis and House of Fraser stores nationwide. We recently opened our new customer experience store in Manchester and have plans to open several new stores in key city locations over the next few years – to be announced. TB: How many UK wholesale accounts does Radley London currently have in the UK? NB: We have 160 UK accounts including House of Fraser, Fenwick, Hoopers, Morleys Group, Ulster Stores, Beales, Browns and Barkers Northallerton. TB: Is there any other brand news that UK retailers would be interested to know about? NB: We have recently had a new chairman appointed, Don McCarthy, an entrepreneur and veteran retailer with over 40 years investing, operating and controlling high street names. Looking ahead to the future, we have a very clear vision and strategy and are looking forward to cementing our position as the leading affordable luxury handbag and accessories brand, both in the UK and internationally.

Showing at: Moda Birmingham 7-9 Aug | Stand V51 | NEC Birmingham RBC Showroom 22 July - 12 Aug |

Contact Howard Ross:

The Gallery, 6 Charlotte Place, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1SG

+44(0) 7795-007528 / +44(0) 7758-689110

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Fairytale ending

After a period of restructure and with a new UK sales agency in place, German brand Marc Aurel is looking to replicate its international success across the British Isles. A strong and rejuvenated collection and focus on quality partnerships are at the core of the strategy, as Isabella Griffiths finds out.

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“Three years ago, Marc Aurel was a bit like Sleeping Beauty – it needed to be woken from a deep slumber and given the kiss of life, and this is what we’ve done. Today, Sleeping Beauty is very much alive and kicking,” says Andreas Gotschke, MD of German womenswear brand Marc Aurel. And indeed, Marc Aurel got its kiss of life, and Prince Charming – to stay with the analogy – was Gotschke himself, who joined the brand in 2013 to undertake a realignment of the range and bring the brand back to its glory days. “Marc Aurel was at the height of its success in 2007/8, but after that it lost market share and turnover was falling. After more than 40 years [as one of the key German womenswear labels], it had got into a bit of a rut and needed rejuvenating. Technically, the collection had always been impeccable, but the handwriting just needed updating and modernising, so this is what we tackled, and we’re now reaping the rewards and our turnover has grown by more than 40 per cent since 2014,” he explains. Having worked at fellow German labels Laurel and Sportalm previously, Gotschke hit the ground running at Marc Aurel, undertaking an in-depth analysis of the label and its market positioning, and first and foremost initiating changes to the collection itself. The range moved away from the fully coordinated outfits and instead focused more on individual statement pieces which worked well on their own while also corresponding within the whole collection through complementary colour and trend stories. The overall signature received a younger and more contemporary look, taking into account the changing dress sense of the modern woman. According to Gotsche, the key was to rejuvenate the collection without losing the core customer. “We had to take her with us on the journey. It wasn’t about going after a new customer; it was about acknowledging that today’s 40 or 60 yearolds are very snappy dressers, and that they want fashion that is suitable for their every day needs – relaxed and yet smart and versatile, so this was our design brief,” he explains. Looking at the latest collections, it is obvious that this has been achieved, with Marc Aurel oozing relaxed and understated luxury and clean cool, and now sitting alongside brands such as Drykorn, Closed, Rich & Royal, Marc O’Polo and Boss Orange. Still in private ownership by its original founder Reinhold Richter, who established Marc

Aurel back in 1972 – initially as a trouser supplier, but shortly afterwards expanding into the full ready-to-wear range – Marc Aurel is represented in over 20 countries worldwide, with an impressive export ratio of 58 per cent. However, the UK has historically never been a key market for the brand. This is about to change, with the appointment of Diane Sykes Fashion Marketing as the brand’s new UK agency last season. Sykes, an experienced fashion professional and well known for her long career in UK fashion and for working with a number of key womenswear names, has been instrumental in getting the brand noticed and placed with indies across the UK. “We’ve had representation in the UK for over 10 years, but it’s only now that we are really giving the market the attention it deserves. Considering we are almost starting from scratch, Diane has managed to open 30 accounts in her first season, which is a great testament to the potential the brand has over here. If we can get to about 60 to 80 in the next two years, we would be very happy, then we can build close partnerships with these clients and really establish the brand,” says Gotschke. “The UK is a top fashion market; fashion is made here, fashion is lived here and fashion is celebrated here. If we’ve learned one thing, it’s that it’s not a market you can do halfheartedly and just dip in and out of. It’s got a fantastic independent retail sector, and therefore lends itself to Marc Aurel and our brand ethos, so hopefully we are very well placed to really push ahead from here on.” Said brand ethos is a conscious commitment to independent retail. According to Gotschke, Marc Aurel is a dedicated boutique brand, with currently no ambitions for own stores or e-commerce. “I can categorically say that strategically, we have no interest in opening own stores or entering the e-commerce world. We feel that we are much better placed in indies, who are specialists in their areas and their client base, and this is what we are committed to. The only thing we do offer is mono-brand stores on a franchise basis, but this is usually with longstanding trade partners whose offer is about 70 to 80 per cent

Marc Aurel anyway and who then decide to go the whole hog. But other than that, we are first and foremost a wholesale brand by choice,” he explains. “The world market is becoming increasingly competitive and fast paced and forever changing, and we genuinely feel that almost going back to our roots as a wholesale brand and only trading with expert partners and specialist stores is our chance to hold our own against our competitors. Our stockists are the faces of our brand, they are the service providers, the knowledge and the experts, and we really believe that by fully committing to them, it gives us a competitive edge,” he adds. Asked about Brexit and potential implications on the brand’s trade with the UK and vice versa, he remains cautious while pragmatic. “Personally, like most German people, we have been saddened that this decision has been made; however, in terms of business, it’s too early to tell what implications, if any, this will have. At the moment, everything is speculation, and none of us has a crystal ball. So all we can do is carry on business as usual, cross that bridge when we get to it, and tackle any potential hurdles like we would any other,” he says with appealing straightforwardness. Immediate plans see a further development of the brand’s product portfolio with an expanded accessories range, as well as the introduction of a capsule footwear collection to complement the ready-to-wear looks. “We have had great success with our accessories, and we have noticed increased demand for footwear, too, that complement the looks of the collection, so we are trialling this for s/s 17. The footwear range will only be available with the ready-to-wear, so it’s not a standalone range, but it will help reinforce the brand identity and give retailers an added product to up-sell on,” says Gotschke. “We know that it’s becoming increasingly important for indies to offer a mini concept-store, and this is aimed at supporting them and giving them a little extra,” he adds. It looks like Marc Aurel is heading for its fairytale ending after all.

“ THREE YEARS AGO, MARC AUREL WAS A BIT

LIKE SLEEPING BEAUTY – IT NEEDED TO BE WOKEN FROM A DEEP SLUMBER AND GIVEN THE KISS OF LIFE, AND THIS IS WHAT WE’VE DONE. TODAY, SLEEPING BEAUTY IS VERY MUCH ALIVE AND KICKING”

11-13 SEPTEMBER 2016

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Style File

The hottest brands not to miss this month q IN THE BAG LA accessory brand Mad Rabbit Kicking Tiger (M.R.K.T) is launching to the UK this season. Established in 2010 by Harvard-trained architect Tom Pen, the premium bag brand already has a strong presence in the US and Asia. Inspired by architectural concepts of clean and pure form, the range includes holdalls, laptop bags, weekend bags, backpacks and more.

u FISHING FOR FOOTWEAR Danish sneaker brand Woden is launching to the UK this season with a new environmentally-friendly collection made of cod and catfish skin – usually a waste product. The recycled material is said to be ideal for footwear production due to its strength, which is 10 times that of regular leathers, while its beautiful structure is finer than salmon skin, creating even lighter footwear. Each shoe is unique because each fish skin is unique, with hand-dyed skins giving the range a high-fashion look.

Denim brand Replay is launching a new line of women’s jeans which synchronise fashion with functionality. Touch delivers a comforting smoothness against the skin, and when mixed with the stretch of Replay’s Hyperflex collection, offers a high degree of performance. The range is made up of four fits, including skinny cropped, skinny low waist, skinny high waist and skinny super high waist.

t URBAN WARRIOR Swedish premium urbanwear brand WeSc (We Are The Superlative Conspiracy) is making a statement of individuality for a/w 16. Pull-out pieces in the collection include bold striped tees and dresses, complemented by sweats and hoodies, all displaying the brand’s signature minimalist aesthetic.

t SKIN DEEP Launched in December last year, Rossell England was borne out of founder Jo Rossell’s desire to create a collection of underwirefree luxury cotton and silk underwear for women. Made in the UK using high quality materials, silhouettes are modern and clean, with bras featuring an asymmetric bespoke nickel-free closure for comfort.

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Urban punk Styles are ripped, deconstructed and reimagined this season – though tartan, leather, zips and heavy buckles act as the glue that binds this typically British trend. WWB selects the top items available now for in-store delivery. 04/

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1/ PAUL'S BOUTIQUE £28 020 8845 882 • 2/ WAVEN £16.67 020 3475 2303 3/ SOUTH WEST TEN price on request 020 3773 6061 • 4/ COLLECTIF £23.25 020 7511 6224 5/ MARC CAIN price on request 01704 513294 • 6/ STANCE £3.47 01243 670999 7/ BOY LONDON price on request 020 7366 0043 • 8/ PHANNATIQ £36 07545 574510 Unless stated otherwise all prices are wholesale

Veromia Group

VEROMIA OCCASIONS

Sizes 16 - 28

DRESS CODE by

VEROMIA

DRESSED UP by

VEROMIA

Visit us at Moda, NEC, Birmingham Stand T6 and T2 Veromia Limited, Unit y prospect Business Park, Langston Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 3TR Tel: 020 8502 2257 Email: info@veromia.co.uk

UK CUSTOMER SERVICES 0141 204 0699

INFO@LATTECLOTHING.COM

PURE STAND M80 MODA STAND W49

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Spring

/summer 17 at

Moda

WWB’s comprehensive guide to the brands and the products not to miss at this season’s edition, which once again brings together the cream of contemporary womenswear, lingerie & swimwear, as well as footwear and accessories.

M O D A W O M A N u P A G E 44 M O D A L O V E S u P A G E 54 M O D A F O O T W E A R u P A G E 56 M O D A A C C E S S O R I E S u P A G E 60 M O D A L I N G E R I E & S W I M W E A R u P A G E 64 W H A T ’ S O N A T M O D A u P A G E 68

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Moda Woman This season’s Moda Woman once again welcomes a multitude of domestic and international names in contemporary womenswear, with one of its strongest line-ups of newcomers to the show to date. WWB takes a look at some of the brands not to miss.

POMODORO There are five key themes in this season’s Pomodoro collection, with Desert Spice among the key trend directions. Earthy tones of desert sand are set against black and ecru, while botanical florals and intricate mosaic prints also feature. Elsewhere, blue, from ink to denim to chambray, is also a strong direction, with wide leg trousers and floaty tunics key, while soft linen, cool cottons and jersey make for an easy to wear weekend wardrobe. Stand Q40

BARBARA LEBEK

BIANCA The colour blue is one of the dominant trend stories in the s/s 17 Bianca collection, featuring not only in a strong array of denim styles, but also in shades of indigo which run through the range. A smart casual and often sporty direction characterises key looks. Stand Q50

Modern outerwear is at the heart of Barbara Lebek’s collection, with lightweight coats and jackets making up key styles for the s/s 17 season. The colour palette is neutral and light, with subtle pastels injecting fresh nuances into summery looks. Stand R60

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RONEN CHEN Spring/summer at Ronen Chen features natural fabrics, linen and lightweight materials with comfortable flowing silhouettes sitting alongside more structured cuts. Strong prints feature, while the colour palette includes blues, greys, coral, sand and khaki. In response to increased customer demand, the brand has extended its size range this season to include more styles in plus sizes up to a 26. Moda White Stand V51

“I’M A REGULAR MODA VISITOR; THE SHOW ALWAYS PROVIDES A GOOD OVERVIEW OF THE INDUSTRY FROM A RETAILER’S POINT OF VIEW, AND IS THEREFORE MOST RELEVANT TO ME. THERE’S USUALLY A GOOD MIX OF BRANDS I MAY NOT KNOW BEFORE VISITING, SO IT’S ALSO USEFUL FOR INSPIRATION, AND WE USUALLY END UP PLACING QUITE A FEW ORDERS ACROSS WOMENSWEAR AND ACCESSORIES.” MICHAEL CADDICK, DIRECTOR, BOUTIQUE 144, KINGSBRIDGE, DEVON

EMRECO Spring/summer at Emreco is inspired by travel, with key influences taken from sun-drenched shores, exotic climates and exuberant carnival colours. The collection features both colour pop prints and stylish neutrals, while key styles include drawstring trousers, maxi dresses, feminine knits and casual cotton jersey tops. Stand R50

ISABELL German outerwear brand Isabell is relaunching to the UK with a collection of contemporary jackets suitable for a busy everyday life. With the collection comprising around 50 pieces for s/s 17, a strong focus is put on style, quality and fit, with versatile pieces that fit many lifestyles. Stand Q68 uuu

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BRODIE CASHMERE Brodie Cashmere offers a knitwear range made from pure Mongolian cashmere. As well as timeless bestselling classics, the latest range features tonal shades with a burst of pop and neon colours, and centres around new styles with camouflage designs, fur trims and nautical themes. Moda White Stand X31

TARA VAO Relaxed but flattering cuts once again define the key direction at Tara Vao, with versatile styles that can be dressed up or down and given an individual look. Paris-designed and produced in Bali, Tara Vao already has a strong following in the UK, targeting the 30-plus woman, with this season’s collection once again presenting an array of vibrant colours and prints. Stand S40

“MODA IS OUR MOST SIGNIFICANT TRADE SHOW OF THE SEASON, WHERE WE SEE MOST OF OUR BUYERS, WRITE MANY ORDERS, AND USUALLY (AND HOPEFULLY!) OPEN MANY NEW ACCOUNTS. THE CENTRAL LOCATION IN THE UK IS ONE OF THE KEY ADVANTAGES; IT’S SO ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL BUYERS TO ATTEND WITH EXCELLENT FACILITIES. BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, ITS A LOVELY ATMOSPHERE.” CAROL CAPENER, CAROL C COLLECTIONS

PICADILLY Making its debut at Moda this season, Canadian label Picadilly is geared for a casual summer with an array of dresses and lots of colour. More than 50 different fabrics have been utilised within the collection, with designs that will take the wearer from work to dinner. Casual comfort and natural fabrics are at the core of the brand philosophy. Stand White V49

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FABER One of the central colour stories at Faber this season is lime and lemon, mixed with white, silver and black. Stripes, all-over prints and gemstone embellishments are among the key features, while predicted bestsellers include long mesh jackets, two-ply jacquard styles and long structured knitted jackets. A further focus is also on shirts and jersey styles, while new silhouettes are also being introduced. Stand Q60

LA GAUCHITA Appearing at Moda for the first time this season, Dutch brand La Gauchita is a lifestyle collection with a sporty, smart casual undertone. The brand targets active women who favour classy and luxurious looks, with versatile styles that can be dressed up or down according to the wearer. Moda White Stand V41

JAMES LAKELAND Building on the success of its extended casual range based around colourful, layered tops, James Lakeland is further enhancing this aspect of the collection for s/s 17. Meanwhile, special occasion pieces also feature heavily, with the emphasis on versatility and wearability key and styles that can be worn again for different occasions. Sleeve lengths and necklines have been given special attention, adding to the elegant and modern handwriting of the range. Moda White Stand V39 uuu

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MEISIE Spanish label Meisie offers a range of on-trend designs, characterised by bohemian and romantic styling with a wide appeal across the age demographics thanks to flattering and whimsical silhouettes. Each piece is designed to transition from season to season, creating wardrobe staples that work year-round. Moda Edit Stand Y50

“MODA IS A CRUCIAL EVENT IN OUR SALES CALENDAR. FOR SOME OF OUR CUSTOMERS, IT CONTINUES TO BE AN IMPORTANT BUYING SHOW, WHILST OTHERS USE IT AS A SHOP WINDOW. WE ALWAYS SEE A LARGE PERCENTAGE OF OUR CUSTOMERS AT MODA. THE BEST THING ABOUT THE SHOW IS THE BUYER-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT AND THE MAINSTREAM OFFER.” NOREEN PURI, CO-OWNER, POMODORO

CREAM Danish brand Cream celebrates femininity and offers a signature look centred around bohemian luxury. Playful details and flattering fits sum up the design aesthetic of the brand, which is making its Moda debut this season, alongside fellow Danish brand Fransa from the DK Company stable. Moda White Stand Y52

FRANK LYMAN Making its anticipated Moda debut, Canadian brand Frank Lyman offers feminine collections centred around vibrant prints and flattering cuts, with a strong emphasis on dresses. Frank Lyman’s Power of Style and Power of Cruise collections have been particularly well received, with the brand building on this success this season. The s/s 17 collection features a multitude of colours, prints and textures, with cut-out shoulders, Bardot tops and layering tunics key. Stand U31

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WWW.LEBEK.DE SHOWING AT MODA STAND R60

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LAUREN VIDAL Fusing Parisian chic alongside soft, relaxed luxury, Lauren Vidal’s s/s 17 collection is inspired by travel. Fluid fabrics in playful designs characterise the range, which features graphic jacquards in stylish jackets, combined with soft cottons embroidered with lace and pearls. Focus is given to fresh, visual prints. Moda White Stand W50

SKUNKFUNK Family owned and designed in Bilbao, Skunkfunk is a contemporary womenswear brand with ethical values at the core. A full-spectrum lifestyle brand, Skunkfunk offers everything from versatile separates to coordinated ranges, as well as an extensive selection of accessories made from innovative fabrics, including recycled leather. Moda White Stand X21

“MODA IS A FUNDAMENTALLY IMPORTANT SHOW FOR US TO REACH OUR NORTHERN CUSTOMERS AND OFTEN THE CUSTOMERS FROM THE MIDLANDS THAT WE MAY MISS IN LONDON. IT IS A DIFFERENT FEEL IN BIRMINGHAM, OFTEN PEOPLE CAN BE A BIT MORE RELAXED, AS IN LONDON THE BUYERS ARE TRYING TO FIT IN AS MUCH AS THEY CAN INTO A FEW SHORT DAYS.” JOANNA EDWARDS, JOANNA EDWARDS AGENCY

RINO & PELLE Dutch outerwear brand Rino & Pelle is returning to Moda this season, offering another diverse collection of summer styles. Leather jackets take centre stage, whether that’s in cool biker styles, or chicer, more elegant versions with novelty detailing such as perforated effects. Newness also comes from treatments such as laser cuts on summer trench coats, while the colour palette stays neutral with a focus on whites, creams, silver and greys. Stand T20

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DIDRIKSONS For s/s 17 Didriksons once again merges style with function while paying attention to every detail. The key theme for this season is retro sport, with inspiration drawn from cuts, colours and styles of the 60s and 70s. The result is a collection that takes classic features from this period and adds Didriksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own identity. Stand P41

MARBLE Lightweight knits in soft and elegant yarns, jersey that drapes the silhouette and printed coordinates define the style direction at Marble this season. Each programme is designed to complement the others, making selecting and merchandising key styles easy and intuitive. Marble Jeans continue to grow in popularity and are available in numerous colour options, with styles including skinny, ankle grazers, crops, straight and bootcut. Stand R40

PAOLA COLLECTION Elegant daywear and chic, contemporary occasionwear can be found at Paola Collection. The Polish brand is returning to Moda with luxurious and versatile styles that are ageless and will suit a wide range of customers. Metallics and sophisticated neutrals form a key part of the colour palette, while brighter accents also feature. Moda White Stand W40 uuu

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SMASHED LEMON Bold prints are among the big highlights in this season’s Smashed Lemon collection. Whether it’s all-over graphics, geometrical shapes, florals or quirky accent prints, the collection is vibrant and colourful. Dresses once again take centre stage, while comfortable jumpsuits, skirts and coordinating tops also feature. Stand S40

“WE FIND THE S/S EDITION VITAL FOR OCCASIONWEAR BUYING AND GO FOR THE FULL THREE DAYS. IT’S GOOD FOR GETTING A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW FIRST AND THEN COMPARING THE BRANDS. THE ADVANTAGE OF THE SHOW BEING IN BIRMINGHAM IS THAT EVERYONE IS TOGETHER. IT WORKS WELL FOR US.” STEVE TAYLOR, DIRECTOR, FAB FROCKS LIMITED, WESTBOURNE, BOURNEMOUTH, DORSET

VILAGALLO Spanish brand Vilagallo prides itself on its eclectic range of European influences, referencing Parisian culture and Italian flair as much as its native roots. The collection brings together a striking range of colours and prints in effortless and chic designs. Stand T30

AVENTURES DES TOILES Aventures des Toiles is a prêt-à-porter brand which draws its inspiration from art. Each season six paintings form the basis for six lines of clothing, creating a unique and highly original signature. Established for 15 years in its native France, the brand shuns trends in favour of its own direction, offering a desirable range which suits many lifestyles. Moda White Stand X48 uuu

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Moda Loves Returning for another edition following its successful launch last season, Moda Loves has revealed a directional line-up of brands offering in-season and on-trend collections.

LINDY BOP Lindy Bopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design ethos is based on fun and affordable vintage inspired fashion, referencing the 1950s with a contemporary and modern twist. With regular short order delivery drops available, the brand has been growing significantly on wholesale level, combining competitive prices with high quality fabrics and design details. Stand W60

CITY GODDESS Show-stopping styles are at the heart of City Goddess, which managed to combine a luxe and expensive feel with affordable price-points. Floor-length gowns feature classic cuts, updated with cut-out backs, delicate lace detailing or frills. Bodycon dresses in mini and midi lengths complement the range, with sweetheart necklines, sheer panelling and nipped in waists key. Sister label Goddiva will also be on show alongside the City Goddess range. Stand V61

RETRO BY JORDASH CLOTHING

HELLBUNNY Starting out with punk-inspired clothing with a cute edge, Hellbunny has since blossomed into one of the key players in directional fashion, with a wide variety of styles encompassing eras from the 40s and 50s, with retro and rockabilly chic at the core. Cute and quirky prints take centre stage in the latest collection. Stand V71

A distinct retro vibe is running through Jordashâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection, with 60s-inspired full-body skirts and dresses at the core. Vibrant florals and a striking colour scheme dominate the collection, while geometric and abstract prints also feature. The brand is making its Moda Loves debut this season and is looking to expand its customer base. Stand W71

ONE BOUTIQUE One Boutique was established in 2012 by Siobhan McKenzie and has evolved into a minimal, modern brand that aims to change the face of ethical and sustainable fashion within the UK and make it more mainstream. Entirely produced in Britain, the label creates uncluttered and individual looks, with a strong focus on high quality fabrics. Stand Y70 uuu

RED&ROYAL LONDON

RED AND ROYAL, 160-162 Cheetham Hill Road, Manchester M8 8LQ T: 0161 834 6281 F: 0161 834 6282 M: 00447774 158821 E: sales@redandroyal.com www.redandroyal.com

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Moda Footwear

As the UK’s national trade event for shoes, Moda Footwear is unrivalled when it comes to fashion for feet. Don’t miss the event’s Boutique plaza, a unique destination concept showcasing contemporary labels for womenswear and footwear buyers alike.

HUSH PUPPIES Global leader Hush Puppies returns to Moda Footwear with a range of shoes for men, women and children. The women’s collection is characterised by muted earthy tones that add an element of versatility to shoes designed to effortlessly fit into summer lifestyles. Showing Moda Footwear stand H29.

S.OLIVER International apparel label S.Oliver returns to Moda Footwear this season with a range of footwear styles for all the family. For women, wearable summer style is the focus, as wide-strapped sandals and comfortable yet elegant block heels take centre stage within the s/s 17 collection. Showing Moda Footwear stand D31.

RAVEL Ravel channels bohemian chic this season with a range of platforms, block heels, flats and sleek stilettos in laid-back 70s styling. Rope detailing, tribal woven textiles and a pastel palette create a nostalgic feel, while metallic shades add a touch of luxe to the new spring collection. Showing Moda Footwear stand F20.

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ALPE Boutique label Alpe presents a range of shoes made in Spain and designed with Mediterranean flair at heart. Discover new textural depths this season and don’t miss the brand’s active range of stylish sneakers for everyday wear. Showing Boutique stand F21.

ROCKET DOG Making a welcome return to Moda Footwear after an absence of a few seasons, Rocket Dog presents an inspiring collection of Californian style. The brand’s signature flats prevail, while colour and textural embellishment provide the signature Rocket Dog twist. Showing Moda Footwear stand J40.

“WE HAVE BEEN REGULAR VISITORS TO MODA SINCE IT BEGAN. WE USE IT FOR FASHION, SHOES AND LINGERIE. IT IS ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL FOR US AS A LOT OF KEY BRANDS CAN BE VIEWED AS WELL AS DISCOVERING NEW ONES AND WE FIND IT USEFUL TO HAVE AN OVERVIEW OF THE SEASON’S TRENDS. I PARTICULARLY LIKED THE NEW LAYOUT AT FEBRUARY’S MODA!” TRACY HARVEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, HARVEYS OF HALIFAX

ECCO Making its Moda debut, global leader Ecco brings a wealth of streamlined Scandinavian style to the forefront for s/s 17. The Danish label was founded in 1963, and has since established a worldwide portfolio of stockists thanks to its wearable and contemporary designs and high quality attributes for all the family. Showing Moda Footwear I21.

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BLOWFISH MALIBU US label Blowfish Malibu is defined by creativity, and challenges convention for s/s 17 with a range of inspiring footwear fashion. Wearable sandals and flats are key with striking strap detailing that adds a contemporary edge to the Californian collection. Showing Moda Footwear stand I4.

Leading Spanish footwear designer Pedro Miralles made its Moda Footwear debut in February, and this season sees the brand return with its directional range of spring styles. Fun and feminine are the watchwords for the latest range, with mid-heels guaranteeing wearability while the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature creative twists add new facets to spring style. The entire Pedro Miralles collection is made in Spain. Showing Moda Footwear stand H30.

EMU AUSTRALIA New to Moda this season, Emu Australia showcases a stylish range of womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s footwear crafted from the natural materials of its native land. Australian sheepskin, Merino wool and high quality leather define the collection, while laid-back styling lets the quality do the talking. Showing Moda Footwear I29.

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Moda Accessories Conveniently situated alongside Moda Woman, Moda Accessories presents an unrivalled opportunity for cross-sector buying. This season will once again see the exhibition host Adorned, the dedicated platform for contemporary and directional accessories.

BATUCADA PARIS New to Moda and showing on the exclusive Adorned platform, Batucada Paris is an innovation in on-trend accessories. The brand will showcase a range of jewellery and sandals inspired by tattoos, that create patterns on the skin for a statement twist on conventional accessories. Showing Adorned.

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PASSIGATTI Making a welcome return to Moda Accessories following an absence of several seasons, Passigatti is a globally renowned scarf label with a wealth of print and design expertise. The brand will unveil its latest spring designs at Moda Accessories, each designed as a standalone statement piece as well as a complement to wider womenswear trends. Showing Moda Accessories stand Z41.

HARLEM CARTER Having made a stunning debut on the Adorned platform last season, Harlem Carter makes a welcome return this summer with its latest offer. Regal rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roll characterises the collection, which is defined by intricate embellishment and luxurious finishes for a truly unique take on contemporary handbags. Showing Adorned.

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PAMPEANO New to Adorned, pampeano is a premium leather label inspired by the extensive heritage of polo and equine culture. Discover a range of belts and exquisite leather goods crafted from luxurious Argentinian leather, each made in line with the high standards of Peruvian artisan craftsmanship. Showing Adorned.

“MODA IS HUGELY VALUABLE TO SOURCE NEW LABELS AND TO GET AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT THE COMING SEASON WILL LOOK LIKE REGARDING COLOURS, TRENDS ETC. I BUY LADIES’ FASHION AND ACCESSORIES INCLUDING, HATS, JEWELLERY, SCARVES, BAGS AND FOOTWEAR. IT IS A BIG TIME SAVER TO FIND ALL OF THESE UNDER ONE ROOF. MODA FOR ME CANNOT BE DONE IN ONE DAY AND I ALWAYS STAY OVERNIGHT.” DEE BRAIN, OWNER, SERENDIPITY FASHIONS, CHILWORTH

VIXEN MILLINERY Vixen Millinery launched to the trade at Moda Accessories earlier this year, redefining the hat sector with designs inspired by its premium parent label Vivien Sheriff at accessible price points. The brand will return this season following strong sales for s/s 16 with an inspiring new range of occasion headwear. Showing Moda Accessories stand V2.

APARA New launch Apara makes its Moda Accessories debut with an inspiring collection of contemporary jewellery. The French brand is characterised by its point of difference – the exclusive use of silicia, a naturally hypoallergenic and durable raw material extracted from minerals such as quartz and opal. Showing Moda Accessories stand Y39. uuu

www.legero.at

My feet’s favourite shoes.

LEGeRO has what feet love. Lightweight. Extremely comfortable. Breathable. GORE-TEX®.

One of the most respected brands in the UK, Dante have been supplying fashion jewellery to independents, multiples and department stores for over 25 years.

MODA Stand – F40 UK South & Ireland Marcus Baker M.S.S.F. • Tel. +44 (0)7775 995547 • marcus.baker@legero.at UK North Terry McIntosh • Tel. 07957 834348 • terry.mcintosh@legero.at

Each season we design a brand new collection of items that compliment the season’s fashion trends. For more information or a catalogue www.DanteJewellery.com or 01260 226 588

See us at Moda, NEC, Birmingham Stand T38

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Moda Lingerie & Swimwear As the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national trade event for lingerie, swimwear and loungewear, Moda Lingerie & Swimwear has the entire intimate apparel sector covered. This season will also see the launch of Active, a dedicated platform for activewear, sports bras and sports swimwear.

CHANTELLE Created around a second-skin philosophy, Chantelle presents an enhanced-fit range of lingerie designed to adapt to summer apparel this season. Irresistible lines become invisible under the transparency of a summer dress, while pastels add hues of summer colour without any compromise on wearability. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LB42.

LISE CHARMEL Refined chic defines the latest swim offer from elegant French label Lise Charmel. Ethnic, floral and cruise influences all play their part, while high quality fabrics and innovative concepts keep each style ahead of its game. Co-ordinating cover-ups are also available for key lines. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LB14.

MOONTIDE Arriving from New Zealand, Moontide redefines contemporary swim style with its forward-thinking shapes, modern design and flattering silhouettes. The colour palette of the new season is suitably marine in nature, with sea blues and shimmering greens taking centre stage. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LC38.

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EBERJEY US label Eberjey showcases a collection of loungewear and intimates characterised by its signature beautiful simplicity. As always, shape is the focus for the brand as bralets, camis, shorts and pyjamas make for an effortlessly elegant offer of casualwear. Each piece is designed with the brand’s girly-sexy-comfy ethos in mind and, for s/s 17, flattering silhouettes for all body types are the key focus. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LB41.

WACOAL Multi-coloured embroidery combines with large floral and leaf motifs for a statement collection of lingerie for Wacoal this season. The brand maintains functionality with super-flat stitching and glossy finishes, ensuring the new season designs stay under wraps as long as the wearer wants them to. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LB23.

“MODA IS A MUST-GO-TO SHOW FOR MY SEASONAL BUYING. IT GIVES ME A GREAT OVERVIEW OF NEW TRENDS FOR THE COMING SEASON AND I CAN SEE THE MAJORITY OF MY KEY SUPPLIERS IN ONE PLACE. I BUY LINGERIE, SWIMWEAR, NIGHTWEAR AND HOSIERY AND AM LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING THE NEW ATHLEISURE AREA.” KAT STOKES, LINGERIE & HOSIERY BUYER, BROWNS OF YORK

PANACHE Cuban culture inspires the s/s 17 swimwear collection for Panache, bringing vibrancy, refined geometrics and bold tribal designs to the forefront of design. Bestsellers from the s/s 16 collection such as Portofino (pictured) are brought up to date with new colourways, while new twist and knot features make for inspiring new shapes across the range. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LB40.

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MAISON LEJABY This season is the first time in four years that Maison Lejaby has shown its spring offer at Moda Lingerie & Swimwear. The exquisite French brand will present a much more directional collection than previously seen at the show, and will unveil nine new inspiring lines for s/s 17. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LB26.

LINGADORE LingaDore’s latest beach offer comprises 13 new lines, each defined by its own statement prints or colourway and range of contemporary shapes. On-trend sports swimwear silhouettes are key, in addition to high-waists, twisted-front briefs, flattering tankinis and the ever-popular bandeau and moulded bra styles. The brand will also showcase a range of lingerie and nightwear as part of its new comprehensive spring offer. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LC17.

BJÖRN BORG This season heralds a new phase of development for Björn Borg as the renowned Swedish label focuses on its women’s apparel and underwear. Responding to a perceived rise in the number of female consumers seeking activewear that transcends the leisure and fitness categories, Björn Borg will arrive at Moda’s new Active area with a contemporary range of styles. Showing Moda Lingerie & Swimwear stand LC55.

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The essential resource for the womenswear industry.

wwb-online.co.uk NEWS • RETAIL • BRANDS • PEOPLE • OPINION • FEATURES • FASHION • EVENTS

MAKE WWB-ONLINE.CO.UK YOUR DAILY SOURCE OF ESSENTIAL FASHION INDUSTRY INFORMATION – IT’S ONLY A CLICK AWAY. TO ADVERTISE ON WWB-ONLINE.CO.UK CALL SAM ON 01484 846069 OR EMAIL SAM@RAS-PUBLISHING.COM

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Spring goes live Moda is the industry hub for all aspects of buying, networking and in-season socialising. Don’t miss out on everything the show has to offer this month. u

EXPERT ADVICE Stay ahead of the game with a comprehensive line-up of seminars delivered by experts in their field. From trend advice to guaranteed ways to boost your bottom line, Moda’s seminar programme offers an essential insight into the business tricks that help independent retailers to thrive. t

FOOD WITH A VIEW p

LIVE FASHION Spot the trends as s/s 17 is brought to life on the catwalk. Selecting key styles from across the show, Moda’s catwalk events offer an unmissable opportunity to get inspired ahead of the season to come. Retailers can also benefit from merchandising ideas from the key looks of the season compiled by an expert stylist.

This season’s Moda party reaches new heights at the brand new Highline venue. Inspired by the dramatic skyline of Manhattan, Highline provides the perfect destination to unwind after the show. Located within minutes of the hall, Highline is the perfect setting for socialising, networking and dancing until late. Drinks will be waiting at 7pm on the Monday evening, with food to follow at 8pm. Contact grace.marsh@moda-uk.co.uk for tickets.

SEMINAR PROGRAMME HALL 18 SUNDAY 10.00 - 10.30 Gent Catwalk 10.30 - 11.00 Martin O’Toole. 10 Things You Need To Know About Video Marketing 11.15 - 11.45 Footwear & Accessories Catwalk 11.45 - 12.15 Katherine Earl. The Changing Face of Visual Merchandising 12.30 - 13.00 Gent Catwalk 13.00 - 13.30 Caner Veli. Instagram Marketing 13.45 - 14.15 Footwear & Accessories Catwalk 14.15 - 14.45 Panel Discussion - Generation X vs Millennials: J Ross, J Jordan, E Hichens, W Knight, C Veli 15.00 - 15.30 Gent Catwalk 15.30 - 16.00 Elizabeth Hichens (kidsontalks) Your Future with E-Commerce 16.15 - 16.45 Footwear & Accessories Catwalk 16.45 - 17.15 Alexandra Duke (SizeWhiz). Solving the Online “Will it Fit?” Problem 17.00 - 18.00 Gent Happy Hour 18.00 - 18.30 Gent Catwalk & Drinks MONDAY 10.00 - 10.30 Gent Catwalk 10.30 - 11.00 Warren Knight. 7 Steps to Being a Successful Fashion Business Owner

11.15 - 11.45 Footwear & Accessories Catwalk 11.45 - 12.15 Ian Rhodes. Building a Brand Less Ordinary from Scratch 12.30 - 13.00 Gent Catwalk 13.00 - 13.30 Stefan Maurel (Style Pilot) Menswear Trends 13.45 - 14.15 Footwear & Accessories Catwalk 14.15 - 14.45 Luan Wise. Content Marketing & Storytelling 15.00 - 15.30 Gent Catwalk 15.30 - 16.00 Julie Conway (FAB). Let’s Talk Retail 16.15 - 16.45 Luan Wise. Social Media Do’s and Don’ts 17.00 - 17.30 Footwear & Accessories Catwalk 17.00 - 18.00 Gent Happy Hour TUESDAY 10.30 - 11.00 Gent Catwalk 11.45 - 12.15 Ellie Wood. Stop Being a Slave to Social 12.30 - 13.00 Footwear & Accessories Catwalk 13.00 - 13.30 Jon Tromans. Blogging for the Fashion Business 13.45 - 14.15 Gent Catwalk 14.15 - 14.45 Alexandra Duke (SizeWhiz). Solving the Online “Will it Fit?” Problem

HALL 20 SUNDAY 10.00 - 10.30 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk 10.30 - 11.00 Katherine Earl. The Changing Face of Visual Merchandising 11.15 - 11.45 Moda Woman Catwalk 11.45 - 12.15 Jonny Ross. How to Run a Successful Online Campaign 12.30 - 13.00 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk 13.00 - 13.30 Warren Knight. How to Win New Business with Social Media 13.45 - 14.15 Moda Noir Catwalk 14.15 - 14.45 Martin O’Toole. 10 Things You Need To Know About Video Marketing 15.00 - 15.30 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk 15.30 - 16.00 Jim Jordan. Understanding Your Target Market 16.15 - 16.45 Moda Woman Catwalk 16.45 - 17.15 Elizabeth Hichens (kidsontalks). Your Future with E-Commerce 18.00 - 18.30 Moda Noir Catwalk & Drinks MONDAY 10.00 - 10.30 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk 10.30 - 11.00 Ian Rhodes. Building a Brand Less Ordinary from Scratch

11.15 - 11.45 Moda Woman Catwalk 11.45 - 12.15 Warren Knight. How to Win New Business with Social Media 12.30 - 13.00 Moda Noir Catwalk 13.00 - 13.30 Panel Discussion - Essential Business Advice, Tips and Tricks: J Tromans, J Conway, I Rhodes, L Wise 13.45 - 14.15 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk 14.15 - 14.45 Beth Taubner (Mercury lab). Why Having a Clear Brand Matters 15.00 - 15.30 Moda Woman Catwalk 16.00 - 16.30 Moda Noir Catwalk 17.00 - 17.30 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk TUESDAY 10.30 - 11.00 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk 11.15 - 11.45 Moda Woman Catwalk 12.30 - 13.00 Moda Noir Catwalk 13.00 - 13.30 Ellie Wood. PR is Not the End 13.45 - 14.15 Lingerie & Swimwear Catwalk 14.15 - 14.45 Jon Tromans. Build Better Product Descriptions

TINA TAYLOR SS 2017 Collection Showing at:

MODA (NEC Birmingham) Stand R35

www.tinataylor.co.uk Tel: 01460 65803

Jumper Johnstons of Elgin £101 020 7227 3131 Moda stand O20 Trousers Gardeur £33.25 020 7580 6244

Life

by the

coast

From Breton stripes to stonewashed denim, espadrilles and a palette of pastels, the new season takes its influence from coastal living. — Photographer: Chris Harvey www.iamharvey.co.uk | Styling/Art Direction: Victoria Jackson Hair and make-up: Ruth Brabiner www.ruthbrabinermua.co.uk | Model: Ellis Duke www.bossmodelmanagement.co.uk

Cardigan Marble £19 0141 8826 743 Moda stand R40 Jumpsuit Emreco £21.64 0345 345 1914 Moda stand R50 Necklace stylist’s own

This page: Top Marc Aurel £43 07906 070081 Shorts Joules £16.65 01858 435261 Bag Latte £45 0141 204 0699 Moda stand W49 Pumps Lotus £8.50 01706 219222 Moda stand D20 Opposite: Top James Lakeland £29 020 7636 7130 Moda stand V39 Trousers James Lakeland £31.50 020 7636 7130 Moda stand V39 Necklace stylist’s own

This page: Jacket Pomodoro £26 020 8961 4000 Moda stand Q40 Shorts Circle of Trust £22 020 3772 7134 Moda stand X21 Top Adrianna Papell price on request customerservice@adriannapapell.com Opposite: Jacket Latte £69 0141 204 0699 Moda stand W49 Skirt Marc Aurel £36 07906 070081 Top Circle of Trust £24 020 3772 7134 Moda stand X21

Dress Braintree Clothing ÂŁ23.95 020 7607 1173 Moda stand R70 Pumps stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

Jacket Airfield price on request 020 7636 7111 Shorts Circle of Trust £30 020 3772 7134 Moda stand X21 Top Luisa Cerano £57 0049 7022 705140 Necklace stylist’s own Ring stylist’s own

Jacket Geox £74.60 020 7636 4207 Shorts Joules £20.85 01858 435261 Jumper Brodie Cashmere £69 0113 250 8680 Moda stand X31 Shoes Joules £8.31 01858 435261

Cardigan Monari ÂŁ51.50 020 7636 4207 Dress Foil ÂŁ15.50 0800 612 9009 Moda stand S40

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The Italian Job

Contemporary womenswear brand Latte has gone from a small collection of tops to a full ready-to-wear line that is a boutique favourite up and down the country. Isabella Griffiths talks to creative director Adele Black about why the British brand, which is 100 per cent produced in Italy, is going from strength to strength and what constitutes the success of the label.

When husband and wife team Michael and Adele Black launched their label Latte 11 years ago, it was little more than a capsule collection of 20 tops and knits. Fast forward to 2016, and Latte is now a fully fledged ready-to-wear collection comprising 150 pieces each season and serving 160 accounts in the UK and Ireland. Adele and Michael had been running their successful fashion agency, Premier Fashions in Glasgow, for the best part of 30 years when they saw a gap in the market for what was to become Latte. “It was what the market demanded at the time – unusual tops and knitwear – and we couldn’t get what we wanted from any of our suppliers, so we decided to bite the bullet and do it ourselves,” recalls Adele Black. “We initially launched with just 20 tops and edgy knits, but we quickly saw that we were onto something, and the range and Latte’s reach has been growing steadily since,” she adds. It was four and a half years ago that Adele decided to focus on developing Latte and take up the helm of the brand as creative director full time; with Michael running the agency day to day, though both are involved in both businesses and value each other’s input. It was also at this time that Adele moved to Italy – where all of Latte’s collections are being designed and produced – for a few months to study fashion and business, as well as the language, at the University of Florence. “It was important to me to really immerse myself into both the business

and the Italian language and culture, as this is at the core of what Latte stands for. We are a British company but 100 per cent produced in Italy, and I knew that if I wanted to take the brand to the next level, I had to be able to communicate with our Italian team and the factory and be able to really be handson with it,” says Black. “We work with an 11-strong team and I’m very much involved in every aspect of the production process, from design to fabrics to patterns, embellishments etc. It’s hugely rewarding to see the collection come to life each season,” she adds enthusiastically. This commitment has certainly paid off, as Latte is now a successful and in-demand boutique brand with a rapidly growing fanbase. And Michael and Adele’s vast experience as fashion agents and distributors was certainly a huge advantage in the development of the range. “It definitely helped that we had our agency experience to draw on and our constant and direct contact with independents, so we knew what the market wanted and needed. And because we’ve been supplying the independent market for so long, we knew how to build a brand from scratch, because this is what we’d been doing for 30 years – only that this time it was our own,” says Black. “It certainly took time to hone our craft, and we were always happy to let Latte grow organically rather than push it too much too fast, and I think this has paid off.” Latte’s USP is the mix of British origin with Italian design

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flair, quality of fabrics and production, and an aesthetic that is based on luxurious styles, standout pieces and yet affordable price points, with average wholesale prices coming in at £50 for dresses, £40 for knitwear and £30 to £35 for trousers. Unusual tops and knits are still “the beating heart of Latte”, as Black puts it, but the range has also become known for its flattering dresses – mostly with the much sought after sleeves! – immaculately tailored trousers and versatile outerwear, with each style sporting unusual design details. “It’s a collection that appeals to fashion-savvy women of all ages who avoid the high street and are looking for something different,” she explains. “We genuinely don’t follow the crowd; we look at trends, but we work them into the collection in a way that allows us to retain our own signature and stay relevant and contemporary. Our customers always say that they love Latte because it’s exciting and commercial and spans the age bands,” she adds. In terms of brand adjacencies, Latte has carved a niche somewhere between the likes of Sarah Pacini and Marc Cain, with a lifestyle offer that will take the wearer from work to a dinner to a wedding and everything in between. “We are a genuine boutique designer brand. There is no e-commerce, we have no own stores and no concessions, and no plans to do that. We are not competing with our clients, but we are partners; we give them exclusivity for their area and we work with them,” stresses Black.

With its 160 stockists currently in the UK and Ireland, Latte is at a very healthy level in terms of distribution, and according to Black, the focus on growth is mostly to work with new stockists in strategically relevant areas, where the brand is as yet not represented, and to increase the commitment from existing customers to the brand. “We don’t want to flood the market, and we are very happy with the level of distribution we are at. That said, there are still areas across the UK and Ireland where we have some gaps, so there is still some potential for expansion,” she says. Going forward, Black wants to place further emphasis on product development – accessories have recently been successfully introduced to complement the range – as well as brand building via photography and digital marketing. “I think we are at a point now where Latte has its own strong and distinct signature which we are becoming recognised for. We now want to put more focus on our photography, as this is key in today’s market for every aspect of marketing and PR, and work in partnership with our clients to really promote and build the brand to the end consumer,” says Black. The brand will be showing its latest s/s 17 range at this month’s Moda – and in traditional Italian style, visitors to the stand can expect not only another refined Latte collection, but also to be served by Adele and Michael with a cheeky Limoncello and biscotti biscuits – for that authentic Italian feeling!

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All the

glamour

Evening and occasionwear encapsulates drama, statement details and playful prints for s/s 17, with brands going all out in the glamour stakes. Rebecca Jackson takes a look at the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essential trends and the latest news from key brands.

Linea Raffaelli Belgian brand Linea Raffaelli offers a range that spans from mother of the bride to special occasion pieces. An array of textures from matt to shimmering finishes are used on the same garment, along with subtle colour combinations. Draping is key for a variety of layering options, while flowing fabrics, ruffles and delicate accessories feature heavily alongside ultra-feminine silhouettes.

Showing at Moda Carla Ruiz: Stand W11 Linea Raffaelli: Stand T9

Carla Ruiz Carla Ruiz makes a welcome return to the Moda halls with its latest collection for s/s 17. Maintaining its focus on contemporary dressing, the brand introduces softer fabrics to the line this season. Chiffons dominate in a colour palette of blue, cream, green and red while select styles come in longer length options.

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Sonia Pena The s/s 17 Scarlett collection from Sonia Pena is based on the novel of the same name by Alexandra Ripley. Taking inspiration from the lead character, Scarlett Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara, the collection themes embody romance, ambition and strength. The designs focus on luxury fabrics, volume and floral prints, with a romantic touch seen through feminine silhouettes, lace and sheer fabrics. Key colours include turquoise, aubergine, red and fuchsia.

Rosa Clara Spanish brand Rosa Clara brings its premium range of special occasionwear and cocktail dresses to the UK market. Starting out almost 20 years ago, the brand is well-established as one of the largest manufacturers in Spain for bridal and occasionwear. This season, close-fit and curve-flattering shapes dominate the collection, creating feminine silhouettes across the line. Meanwhile, lace, sheer fabrics and sparkle add subtle detail on both short and long length designs.

Showing at Moda Ronald Joyce: Stand U19 Rosa Clara: Stand V9 Sonia Pena: Stand W8

Ronald Joyce The s/s 17 Veni Infantino collection by Ronald Joyce offers lace, embroidery and chiffon fabrics featuring beaded details. Colours including silver, charcoal, taupe, cream, navy and ivory create a refreshing palette throughout the line of stylish and contemporary young occasionwear pieces.

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ELLIE WILDE BY MON CHERI

MICHAELA LOUISA

CITY GODDESS

VERA MONT

DRESSED UP BY VEROMIA OCCASIONS

TREND WATCH: STATEMENT BLUE

Summer presents an array of colours this season, though the one dominating collections time and time again is blue. Whether it’s mixed with different clashing patterns and lighter colours for extra effect or appearing as an all-over colour option, this bold and flattering hue sure makes a statement. Working well on fitted and loose styles, royal and midnight blue stand out.

Showing at Moda Ariella: Stand X3 City Goddess:Stand V61 Dressed Up by Veromia: Stand T6 Ellie Wilde by Mon Cheri: Stand U21 Marfil Barcelona: Stand V9 Michaela Louisa: Stand T31

Ariella

Marfil Barcelona

Ariella is returning to Moda this season with its s/s 17 offering, alongside a short-order range for Christmas. An array of party and occasionwear pieces dominates the collection, with full length gowns taking centre stage. Buyers visiting the Ariella stand during the Moda trade show will be entitled to 10 per cent off on their first order.

The s/s 17 collection from Marfil Barcelona offers flattering feminine shapes in soft colours including pinks and greys. Sheer fabrics and sparkling embellishments act as standout design features across the range, which spans from cocktail and party dresses to mother of the bride. Dresses are available in a range of flexible lengths and short or long sleeve options. Wholesale prices range from £110-£160.

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John Charles On-trend elegance comes from renowed UK brand John Charles, which offers a renewed interpretation of modern occasion dressing. Harmonious in its soft tonal mix of pastels and vibrant brights, the palette is delicately feminine, bringing together a colour to suit any occasion in styles that set the tone for the season. Metallics and bold blues are also key for summer 2017, given a twist with ornate embroidery or modern laser-cutting. u

Cabotine

Mascara The s/s 17 collection of Mascara will see the brand offer what it is best known for: statement red carpet gowns. The range features subtle embellishments and a colour palette of jewels to berry tones, adding glamour and elegance. Fabrics have been specifically created to add accents and flatter silhouettes.

Cabotine focuses on an elegant and sophisticated aesthetic across its s/s 17 line. Designs are kept simple and clean whilst also giving an on-trend modern appearance. From the designer Gema Nicolas, the range is typically aimed at the feminine, styleconscious and modern-day woman, and centred around outfits that are ideal for cocktails, ceremonies and celebrations. Showing at Moda Cabotine: Stand Y7 • Carla Ruiz: Stand W11 City Goddess: Stand V61 • Crystal Breeze: Stand V8 John Charles: Stand T21 • Mascara: Stand T11

CARLA RUIZ

CHI CHI LONDON

CRYSTAL BREEZE

CITY GODDESS

LINZI JAY

TREND WATCH: LACE

Lace is a returning favourite this season. Whether used to highlight attention to detail or as an all-over effect, this flattering fabric is without doubt an occasionwear crowd-pleaser. For s/s 17, lace is often used to emphasise layers or create a playful texture. Combined with other fabrics, lace appears sophisticated and refined. However, when used all over and with just one colour, the trend echoes a more dramatic look.

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PAOLA COLLECTION

JOHN CHARLES

LIZABELLA

TERESA RIPOLL

TREND WATCH: FLORALS

DYNASTY LONDON

A varying display of florals is presented this s/s 17, from ditsy prints to large statement design. Colours are key to creating eye-catching looks, and this season bold and bright hues are a great option. At the same time, subtle colours work in harmony to create a softer approach to the trend.

Showing at Moda Lizabella: Stand T41 Michaela Louisa: Stand T31 Paola Collection: Stand W40 Zeila: Stand Y7

Michaela Louisa For s/s 17, Michaela Louisa presents a varied collection showcasing a bright colour palette including the key hues pink, red and blue. Metallics and monochrome also feature on long and shorter length styles, with statement stripes and ditsy patterns playing a key role. Clashing colours in general characterise many of the pieces, as well as florals and delicate summer-focused patterns. A range of fabrics from lace to chiffon are used to add layers and texture, presenting a multitude of options.

Zeila Mother of the bride brand Zeila caters to all shapes with its latest range. Dresses and coats present a timeless feel, though on-trend styles are also represented through vibrant colour options. A variety of fabrics come together to create a playful use of texture and up to date looks. Designed by Lola Arce, the collection is immaculately crafted with strong attention to cuts and detail.

w w w. ro n a l d j o y c e . c o m

djoyce.com wwwwww. .rroonnaa ll d joyce.com View the beautiful Spring / Summer 2017 collection at Moda H A L L 2 0 , S TA N D U 1 9 7TH - 9TH AUGUST

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Style hunter WWB visited Berlin last month to discover the key products and trends to emerge for the new s/s 17 season, from contemporary fashion at Premium and SEEK, through to wardrobe staples at mainstream trade fair Panorama. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

APRICOT info@apricot100.com

BENCH 0161 276 3900

BLEND SHE 020 3432 6387

DERHY 0033 1 4770 5690

ICHI 0045 79 433 000

JOULES 01858 435255

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MATT & NAT 07815 784316

NATIVE YOUTH 0161 835 2064

SAINT TROPEZ 0045 4976 2526

SOAKED IN LUXURY 020 3432 6385

SOKO 001 650 804 9235

SYNDICUT LONDON 07506 684311

TOM SHOT 0049 30440383

TWIST & TANGO 0046 3112 8110

VIU 0049 89 380 379 01

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Retailer spotlight:

BOUTIQUE CELEBRATES TEN YEARS IN BUSINESS

LIBERTY LONDON HOSTS GARDEN PARTY

Cambridge boutique Boudoir Femme celebrated 10 years in business last month with an in-store charity fundraising party. Collecting money for the Cambridge-based Arthur Rank Hospice, the store treated guests to special offers, goody bags and a designer prize draw worth over £800 including items from Lily & Lionel, M.i.h Jeans, Pernille Corydon, Maison Scotch and American Vintage. The store also produced a sell-out own-label cashmere scarf to mark the 10th anniversary.

As part of Secret Streets – a summer celebration throughout London – department store Liberty London held its own garden party last month. The store held an afternoon of outdoor fun outside its premises on Great Marlborough Street including hair braiding, street food and music. Limited edition charity T-shirts were also on offer at the event, with 50 per cent of proceeds donated to the MTV Staying Alive charity.

Retail Forum The latest in-store news from the industry

HAVE YOU OPENED A NEW STORE , LAUNCHED A TRANSACTIONAL WEB SITE , ORGANISED AN EVENT OR HAVE ANY OTHER IN-STORE NEWS? THEN LET US KNOW BY GETTING IN TOUCH AT REBECCA . JACKSON@RAS-PUBLISHING.COM.

Web watch:

WWW. YOUNGBRITISHDESIGNERS.COM

Established in 2010, the Young British Designers website is, as its name suggests, dedicated to showcasing up-and-coming homegrown talent within the fashion industry. The list of on-site designers includes one of this year’s British Fashion Council NewGen winners: JW Anderson. Other designers include Folk, Aries, Draw in Light, Rose Rankin and Kirsty Ward. The transactional website allows customers to shop by product category or designer. There is also a ‘new in’ section, enabling website visitors to browse the very latest additions to the site, while inspiring design is celebrated through an exciting display of art-focused imagery. Video content and interactive content makes this website one to watch.

SUSIE PERKS Owner, The Wardrobe, Alton, Hampshire www.thewardrobe.biz — What is your current bestseller in-store? New lines this season include Emreco, Marble and Lily & Me, which has been very popular. The Beach House tunic top from Lily & Me is a bestseller. It comes in a great mix of colours and is incredibly flattering on all shapes and sizes. How have you found trading over the last month? Above expected. I think the bursts of good weather have driven sales, with people finally getting their wardrobes holiday-ready after a seemingly endless winter. What have you been doing to drive traffic in-store? We ran an early spring advertising campaign in our local newspaper, and Alton also has a very active town retail group that is great at cross publicising all that the local shops have to offer. We’ve also placed an advert in the Hampshire Life magazine to attract footfall from outside the town. What’s on your agenda for the coming month? I’m very excited that next month we have some fabulous new brands coming in store, in particular Sixton London. The brand has a really lovely selection of dresses and tops which I think our customers will absolutely love.

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Retail therapy: Share your retailing bugbears

MINT VELVET OPENS IN SHOPPING CENTRE

BRITISH WOMENSWEAR CLOTHING BRAND MINT VELVET OPENED A STANDALONE STORE AT BLUEWATER SHOPPING CENTRE, KENT, LAST MONTH. THE 2,200 SQ FT STORE WAS THE BRAND’S FIRST UK STANDALONE STORE TO BE OPENED WITHIN A SHOPPING CENTRE. DESIGNED BY BRITISH STUDIO KINNERSLEY KENT DESIGN, THE NEW VENUE HOLDS THE LATEST OFFERING OF ACCESSORIES, CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR. “THE HIGH QUALITY LOCATION IS FANTASTIC, WITH SIGNIFICANT APPEAL TO OUR AFFLUENT CUSTOMER BASE, WHILST BENEFITING FROM A MUCH WIDER CATCHMENT AREA,” SAYS MINT VELVET CO-FOUNDER AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE LIZ HOUGHTON.

TRICIA STIRLING Owner, Vanity Fair, Bearsden, Glasgow and Helensburgh, Argyll As we embark on our new season buying trips, I only wish that we had a platform to promote the independent boutiques. Yes, we can advertise individually, but as I watch Lorraine Kelly and Mark Heyes constantly pushing high street brands like Zara, Top Shop and H&M, I can’t help but think that the people that make these programmes could be looking outside the city to show the 40+ lady the vast selection available from independent boutiques. We may not have Gok Wan in store or indeed Mark Heyes, but we have a great deal of experience and a genuine wish to ensure the customer leaves happy. If anybody knows a programme producer out there that can give us a nod every now and again, please have a quiet word in their ear.

INDIES BOUNCE BACK AFTER FLOODS Indie businesses in Hebden Bridge and Mytholmroyd marked six months since the destruction caused by the Boxing Day floods last year. Hebden Royd Alternative Christmas saw residents and visitors celebrate the town, with many of the stores being back open for business. Indie footwear store Ruby Shoesday and many others joined in with the celebrations, which included street parties, Christmas dinner, Christmas tree planting, a Christmas Market and a carol service.

Q&A:

Which promotional events do you find most effective?

JESSICA GORE

MHAIRI MCDERMOTT

DERYANE TADD

TRINA BODMAN

Womenswear buyer, Accent Clothing, Leeds

Owner, M Boutique, Broughty Ferry, Dundee

“Our VIP Lock-in nights. They allow us to offer a more tailored one-to-one styling experience to our loyal customers, while giving them exclusive discounts off their favourite brands. The events also encourage new customers, as our long-standing customers tend to bring their friends and family along. We try to vary the themes of the events to ensure they appeal to everyone.”

“Collaborating with other local businesses definitely gives us a good return. It creates a point of interest for our existing customers, and by working with like-minded businesses we both generate new income. It takes a lot of work and effort but the results make it very worthwhile.”

Owner, The Dressing Room, St Albans, Hertfordshire

Owner, Trina’s Ladieswear, Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf

“New season events that we host at the weekends have the best reaction. We try to incorporate Instagram competitions into these events with fun prizes to win and charity raffles.”

“I hold a fashion show every season at the local golf club. Not only do we raise lots of money for charities, but we offer 10 per cent discount and it’s a great success.”

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E-tail Clinic

Essential e-commerce advice The expert view: How to effectively collect feedback I often talk about the ‘Three Pillars’ of online customer feedback (collecting, analysing and action) and undoubtedly without the initial stage of collecting the right feedback on your websites and apps, the whole exercise is futile. Collecting the right customer feedback in your online ordering funnel takes careful planning and a firm understanding of the journey your clients take when buying a product or service on your website or app. The ‘right feedback’ is better described as ‘qualitative information’, the data which is relevant and most helpful to guiding your business and its sales funnel towards growth and customer retention. Overall, it is vital that feedback requests are relevant to the customer and your business drivers, whilst being timely so as not to hassle and alienate the very people you are trying to keep engaged and interested! Identify where visitors are leaving This is the first step and is where feedback can add the most value. When you have your web analytics in place you will know how visitors are behaving and which pages have the highest exit rates. Feedback will tell you exactly why customers are leaving. Use the right framework It is vital to capture feedback in the moment (when the problems may be occurring), not via an email after the interaction. However, it can be difficult to decide what to ask and when, so a framework will provide a structure to collect the feedback you need and keep it consistent for every funnel or product. Keep it short Let’s be honest, not many people want to spend 30 minutes to provide you with feedback! So limit the number of questions (a maximum of say three or four) and keep them short and simple, with a facility to leave comments, which can be invaluable. Be relevant Don’t just ask for general feedback, you need to tune it around what you want to achieve. The more relevant your question is and the more it fits with what the customer is trying to achieve through your website or app, the more useful the feedback will be. Provide the right incentives You are asking customers to make the effort and provide feedback, so why not stimulate and reward them for it? You could offer a discount, free usage, or a gift/prize for every 100th or 1000th feedback that is submitted. This shows your customers and visitors that you value their input and are prepared to give something in return for their efforts. Think mobile Mobile devices have transformed e-commerce in recent years, with apps for buying clothes, handling insurance claims, or banking being increasingly popular – so these channels should be a key part of your business’s feedback strategy. Stop guessing, start knowing There is no point trying to guess what your customers require; you need to find out from them directly! Capturing the right insights, in the right way, is crucial for optimising online sales, but do not make it too complex to start with. Once feedback flows in you can tweak your setup and optimise it further, to see what works best for your specific situation. Often it will be a process of trial and error, but the secret to success lies in collecting feedback effectively. KEES WOLTERS, MOPINION

Web chat: TANYA HARDY Owner, Orchid Boutique, Louth, Lincolnshire www.orchidboutique.co.uk When did you launch your website and is it transactional? In order to reach a wider audience and complement the boutique, I launched the e-commerce website in 2014. What percentage of your business does your site constitute? At the moment online sales only constitute a small proportion of our sales, between 5-10 per cent. Are you selling the same stock online as in-store? Yes. But I offer a wider selection in-store, partly due to the time it takes to load new products on to the site. Customers often browse the website before coming into the boutique. For my customers living outside of the area, it is a shop window for them. Is your e-commerce arm growing, and what is driving this growth? Some months more than others, but on the whole, yes. Currently I am looking to update the website to help its growth, but I find social media does help a great deal. What are your plans for the site and how would you like it to develop? I would like to see an increase to around 15-20 per cent of the total business in the next 12 months. Using social media behaviour, competitions and personal data submitted online to send tailored messages will help target customers better. Updating the website and adding things like product reviews, testimonials and social login options should also help its growth.

25.2

The increase in online retail delivery volumes year-on-year in May, the strongest growth recorded so far this year by some distance *Sourc: IMRG MetaPack UK Delivery Index

Increase in online clothing sales in the first week after the Brexit vote, indicating that while footfall on high streets has fallen, digital shoppers are more resilient *Source: Demandware Shopping Index

24%

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Brand Directory

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Airfield 020 7636 7111 www.fosfashion.co.uk • Alpe 07791 054647 www.alpeactive.com • Adrianna Papell www.adriannapapell.com • Ariella 020 8883 7288 www.ariella.com • Atelier Gardeur 0207 580 6244 www.atelier-gardeur.com • Aventures des Toiles 0033 385 770 303 www.aventuresdestoiles.com • Barbara Lebek 0049 2661 9190 www.lebek.de • Bianca 020 7580 0085 www.bianca.de • Bjorn Borg www.bjornborg.com • Blowfish Malibu 07884 188821 www.blowfishshoes.co.uk • Braintree 020 7607 1173 www.braintreeclothing.com • Brodie Cashmere 0113 250 8680 www.brodiecashmere.com • Cabotine 0161 236 7951 www.gndesigngroup.es • Carla Ruiz 01892 614000 www.carlaruiz.com • Chantelle 07767 276992 www.chantelle.fr • Chi Chi London 020 7377 9944 www.chichiwholesale.com • Circle of Trust 020 3772 7134 www.circleoftrust.nl • City Goddess 020 8597 2744 www.citygoddess.co. uk • Crystal Breeze 020 8541 1199 www.crystalbreeze.co.uk • Collectif 020 7511 6224 www.collectif.co.uk • Didriksons 07979 691899 www.didriksons.com • Dressed Up by Veromia Occasions 020 8502 2257 www.veromia.com • Dynasty London 020 8736 0200 www.dynastyuk. co.uk • Eberjey 020 7499 4598 www.eberjey.com • Ecco www.ecco.com • Ellie Wilde by Mon Cheri 01954 232 102 www.mon-cheri.co.uk • Emreco 0141 424 1914 www.emreco.co.uk • Emu Australia 0207 7132080 www.emuaustralia.com • Faber 020 8441 6305 www.faberknitwear.de • Frank Lyman 0141 204 0699 www.franklyman. com • Foil 0800 612 9009 www.carolccollections.com • Geox 020 7636 4207 www.partnersinfashion.com • Harlem Carter 07876 474693 www.harlemcarter.com • Hellbunny 020 8501 2838 www.popsoda.co.uk • Hush Puppies 020 7860 0100 www.hushpuppies.co.uk • Isabell 0049 172 88 84 502 www.ferentino.de • James Lakeland 020 7636 7130 www.jameslakeland.net • Johnstons of Elgin 0207 227 3131 www.johnstonscashmere.com • Joules 01858 435261 www.joules.com • Jordash 0161 833 4471 www.jordashclothing.com • John Charles 020 8888 8833 www.johncharles.co.uk • L’Atelier 020 8965 1522 www.mascaracollection.com • La Gauchita 0031 252 433 980 www.largauchita.eu • Latte 0141 204 0699 www.latteclothing.com • Lauren Vidal 01825 733330 www.mdainternational.co.uk • Lindy Bop 0161 399 0176 www.lindybop.co.uk • Linea Raffaelli 0032 13771476 www.linearaffaelli.be • Lingadore 0031 315 653 202 www.lingadore.com • Linzi Jay 01254 665104 www.linzijay.com • Lise Charmel 00 33 4 37 50 1692 www.lisecharmel.com • Lizabella 0113 245 9064 www.tatefashions.com • Maison Lejaby 07535 891577 www.lamaisonlejaby.com • Marc Aurel 07906 070 081 www.marc-aurel. com • Marc Cain 01704 513294 www.marc-cain.com • Marfil Barcelona www.marfilbarcelona.com • Mascara 020 8965 1522 www.mascaracollection.com • Marble 0141 882 6743 www.marblefashions.co.uk • Meisie 0711 207062 www.meisie.es • Michaela Louisa 020 8888 7000 www.michaelalouisa.com • Monari 020 7636 4207 www.partnersinfashion.com • • Mon Cheri 01954 232102 www.mon-cheri.co.uk • Mori Lee 0845 561 5522 www.morilee.com • Moontide 01209 314883 www.moontide.com • Nu 020 7702 0203 www.lovebrandsuk.com • One Boutique 07545 595607 www.one-boutique.co.uk • Panache 0114 241 8839 www.panachelingerie.com • Pampeano 01865 773709 www.pampeano.co.uk • Paola 01892 614000 www.joannaedwardsagency.co.uk • Passigatti 0049 731 98577 42 www.passigatti.com • Passionata 07767 276992 www.chantelle.fr • Pedro Miralles 0034 966 630911 www.pedromiralles. com • Peter Kaiser 0049 6331716246 www.peterkaiser.co.uk • Picadilly 020 7580 3202 www.picadillyfashions.com • Pomodoro 020 8961 4000 www.pomodoroclothing.com • Ravel 01706 212512 www.ravel.co.uk • Rino & Pelle 0031774723383 www.rino-pelle.com • Rocket Dog 020 8207 7200 www.rocketdog.co.uk • Ronen Chen 020 7458 4019 www.ronenchen.com • Ronald Joyce 0845 561 5522 www.ronaldjoyce. com • Rosa Clara www.rosaclara.es • • Skunkfunk 07887 891160 www.lovebrandsuk.com • Smashed Lemon 0800 612 9009 www.smashed-lemon.com • S.Oliver 0049 5231 605 345 www.soliver-shoes.com • Sonia Pena 0034 952 240 368 www.soniapena. com • South West Ten 020 3773 6061 www.southwest.com • Stance 01243 670999 www.stance.com • Tara Vao 0800 612 9009 www.carolccollections.com • Teresa Ripoll 07850 788178 www.teresaripoll.com • Vera Mont 020 8097 3016 www.bettybarclay.com • Veromia Occasions 020 8502 2257 www.veromia.com • Vilagallo 0034 916 331 767 www.vilagallo.es/en/ • Vixen Millinery 01725 512983 www.vixenhats.co.uk • Wacoal 01536 764398 www.wacoal-europe.com • Waven 020 3475 2303 www.waven.co.uk • Zeila 0161 236 7951 www.gndesigngroup.es

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The Last Word with... Carin Wester, newly appointed creative director of WeSC What are the immediate plans for the brand moving forward? We are now building the brand by introducing three different characters for the line. The Purist – the classic streetwear kid that loves bold prints, colours and shapes (the old WeSC customer). The First Gen – the customer that cares about quality and iconic products in the collection. And the Model 2.0 – the more trend focused customer that is new for WeSC; this is the top of the line where the focus is about new things and what’s exciting in streetwear at the moment. Who do you admire in terms of brands and designers? Since I started working with WeSC I check a lot of other streetwear brands including Supreme, Palace and different collaborations of sportswear brands. As I come from a ready-towear brand, I’m really excited to see where Demna Gvasalia will take Balenciaga and Vetements, which for me feels very fresh.

You joined WeSC as creative consultant last year and have now been appointed creative director. What excited you about WeSC’s potential? I knew about WeSC as I had many friends who had worked for the brand over the years, so that, combined with an interest in streetwear, made the decision easy when the opportunity came knocking and I was excited to go for it. WeSC is a well-known brand globally, therefore the potential to try to bring it to the next level is what inspires me the most. You have already designed the womenswear collection for a/w 16. What was your inspiration? The inspiration came from the early 90s cult grunge music scene and I tried to mix this up to bring more feminine attributes to the line. There is a hand-painted ‘Love Bird’ allover print, fluffy reversible teddy jackets and accessories, oversized block-striped jersey and fake fur pony sneakers and trucker caps. The colours are a mix of classic blue and red tones, adding strong yellow and green for a more playful look. You have a very individual design aesthetic and use really interesting fabrics; is this something you always focus on? Yes, I always start my design process with fabric sourcing. I like to play with fabrics and twist the conventional and I think this is one of most interesting elements of design.

Where would you position WeSC as a brand – who would you like to sit alongside? I think we can do something very unique, especially for the women’s line. In the current climate I feel there are very few brands in sportswear that create collections for both men and women where the shape and cuts come from the same inspiration. For me, the WeSC woman is a girl who appreciates quality, shapes and new cuts with a masculine touch, which is also very Scandinavian. What have been the ‘must-dos’ with this new collection? I’m building iconic new products for the brand. The customer always needs to be able to find the Bomber, the Parkas and the Windbreaker together with traditional streetwear materials and expression, such as the camouflage, Hawaii print and bold stripes. How do you unwind? I always appreciate playing with my daughter when coming home from work. On weekends I unwind by cooking and relaxing with my family. What are the three things on your bucket list? Participate in the Swedish radio programme Sommar, tour the States in a pink Cadillac, create a big garden. What’s your secret talent? I love karaoke! What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? Aim higher. Dream bigger. How would you sum up your style? I love the mix of high fashion with streetwear and always have some kind of masculine touch in my dressing.