retail concepts

40 years of Joseph and their famous handknit sweaters



Joseph handknit sweater and 1980s ad campaign

1983 was a monumental year for fashion. Why? So many reasons but in particular, it was the launch of Joseph*. A key influence on 80s and 90s fashion, Joseph Ettedgui was a knitwear and retail innovator whose fabulous contemporary stores, buying nous and ad campaigns were both timeless and of the moment. (more…)



Positive fashion: Curated reseller Marrkt just launched womenswear



Marrkt womenswear

Not sure if this is good or bad news. If you’re a selective shopper like me, then good news, I hope! Marrkt (I pronounce it ‘market’, Mr DRG insists on ‘marked’), the curated reseller platform that – until now – specialises in heritage-y menswear brands, has now added womenswear.

Its email blurb promises the likes of pre-loved APC, Comme des Garçons, Margaret Howell and Trickers, or as they put it, “classic, quirky, design- and quality-driven – less about the logo, more about the product.” (more…)



Quote of the day: Tiina Laakkonen on retail for the post-aspirational class



Tiina The Store by Christopher Sturman

“The aspirational retail world has been taken over by big luxury brands. That’s what they’ve done in East Hampton. But my customer is no longer aspirational. They don’t want logos or any of that stuff. They’re done.”
Tiina Laakkonen, New York Times (more…)



What to buy from the Grenson summer pop-up



Grenson loafers - Epsom style in yellow

Summer is officially here and with it, loafer and sandal season. My summer uniform is a rotation of dark Levi’s, slim khaki chinos and pleat-front linen trousers – all ankle-cropped and loafer-friendly. For me, loafers have to show some bare ankle or sock; I don’t rate loafers worn with super-long trousers (however trendy they are atm). But loafers with dresses and skirts, with or without socks are a firm yes.

Grenson has a summer pop-up in its east London store and the two-tone Epsom penny loafers are a major highlight. (more…)