Fashion brand chooses Yorkshire city centre for pop-up store launch

British brand Temperley London has opened its first standalone store outside the South East in Hammerson’s flagship destination – Victoria Leeds.

The retail space will stock the Temperley London Autumn and Winter 2019 collections, along with a select offering of its Bridal collection.

Temperley London focuses on women’s ready-to-wear collections, and offers a comprehensive range of daywear, cocktail and eveningwear. The brand was founded by Alice Temperley in 2000, and she continues to head the creative direction of the business.

Temperley London uses artisan techniques and intricate hand-worked embellishment. The brand currently has four standalone stores and its products are distributed in over 30 countries across the world.

Iain Mitchell, UK commercial director at Hammerson, said: “Temperley London’s unique design-led products will be a great addition to Victoria Leeds, and will really complement the broader fashion offer at the destination, which includes the likes of Louis Vuitton and Vivienne Westwood.

“Pop-up stores are a great way for brands to test out their offer in new locations, and also help us to keep our destinations fresh and exciting for consumers.

“Across our portfolio, when it comes to fashion, we’re looking for unique, independent brands that deliver products and an in-store experience that breaks the mould, and Temperley London is a great example of that.”

Luca Donnini, CEO of Temperley London, said: “We’re aiming to expand our own retail operation in key UK locations outside London; we have chosen Victoria Gate as a first step.

“This is part of a strategy which aims to give access to a wider audience in our national market. Leeds will be an important space to showcase our new product categories launching in 2020, together with the magic Bridal Collection. The new ready-to-wear collection and range in pricing will open us up to a wider customer base whilst still providing a luxury one-to-one service experience.”

Victoria Leeds has already attracted a number of other high-profile brands in 2019, including Peloton and Leeds-based homeware retailer Dowsing & Reynolds.