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Tuesday 8 May 2012

The Kooples open in Victoria Quarter

The Kooples open in Victoria Quarter


Quirky young marque Francais The Kooples (a spin on how ‘couples’ is pronounced by the French), is now open on King Edward Street in Victoria Quarter, the latest in a string of new brands to the region who’ve opened in VQ over the last 12 months.
Founded by Alexander, Laurent and Raphael Elisha, who are also responsible for the successful Comptoir des Cotonniers, it’s a real phenomenon in France and is currently sweeping the UK. The Kooples concept is based on the idea that people in relationships frequently borrow each other's clothes, so expect a slightly more masculine and androgynous style with a cool rock vibe.
The collection highlights include skinny silhouettes, sharply tailored sleeves, slim fit trousers, all sewn in the legendary ateliers of Savile Row, the epicentre of British tailoring. Tailoring is at the heart of the brand and the brothers work alongside British tailor, Patrick Grant of Norton & Sons to create a truly British sensibility at the core of their suiting.
Rock n’ roll influences shake up these silhouettes with the addition of badges, emblems and skull details. Narrow, black leather coats, short navy jackets, striped button-down collar shirts, and khaki trench coats with subtle military accents make up the casual elements of the men’s collection. Key pieces within the women’s line include ¾-length sleeve shirts, smocked button down tops and long sleeved cardigans, embroidered tops, leather skirts and dresses.
VQ Centre Director, John Bade commented, “This is another great brand for VQ and has already created a lot of interest from shoppers. Their arrival certainly speaks of a continuing confidence in the centre and Leeds in general, which is an encouraging sign in what remains an unpredictable market.”
The Kooples store is 11, King Edward Street, Victoria Quarter, Leeds.