Monsoon continues rapid expansion with grand London opening

Highstreet retailer Monsoon has opened the doors to its newest boutique at 290 Upper Street in Islington, following successful store openings in Bath, Edinburgh and Cambridge over the past year.

The London opening, which took place on Friday 16 June, reflects the retailer’s strategy to open elevated retail spaces in London’s ‘villages’ and select market towns.

Adorned with artisan wall hangings and framed artwork, the historical red-brick building – formerly a pub – will offer a curated space where customers can shop the women’s collections.

The architecture and colour palette reflects Monsoon's long-lasting relationship with India. For example, in-store installations showcase craftsmanship from artisan wood-blocking to weaving techniques, used by the brand since its inception during the 1970s.

This is the second London opening in recent months for retailer, after the launch of a Monsoon Vintage pop-up on Portobello Road in early May to celebrate the brand’s 50th anniversary.

Monsoon Vintage is running for three months and is carrying “quintessentially 70s Monsoon pieces”, such as quilted and embroidered skirt and top co-ords, bib-front dresses and vintage pieces from the likes of Gucci and Oscar de la Renta.

Naomi Robertson, Buying and Merchandising Director at Monsoon, commented: "In our 50th anniversary year, it is fun to be expanding our physical retail presence again.

"Our new boutique format has received a warm welcome with our recent store openings, and we’re looking forward to our new presence in Islington and serving our great North London customer base."