Free People to open first permanent store in UK

American fashion and lifestyle brand Free People is set to open its first true store front in the UK later this week in London.

The 7,500 square foot store on Floral Street in London will open on January 18 and was chosen for its “vibrant Covent Garden” location. The opening will mark the brand’s second permanent store in Europe joining the Amsterdam flagship, which opened in November last year.

The fashion brand, known for its bohemian clothes and vintage silhouettes, has also announced that it will be following up the Floral Street opening with a second store in London, launching in Duke of York’s Square in March 2019. With further stores set to be announced later in the year.

Sheila Harrington, president of Free People, said in a statement: “We are delighted to announce that we will be growing our UK portfolio in 2019. This is an exciting opportunity to provide a greater brand experience for our customer.”

Free People to expand their presence in the UK with two London stores opening this spring

The Floral Street store design will follow the signature Free People aesthetic whilst “respectfully acknowledging the architectural features of the original building,” added the brand. It will be inspired by nature’s raw beauty, with an emphasis on the handmade and unexpected textures and materials, with design highlights expected to include accents of cooper, washed white reclaimed oak and rose quartz.

The store will launch with the spring 2019 collection and will house the brand’s signature styles, essential one-pieces and sets, along with bodysuits, woven tops, and jumpers, as well as various silhouettes from the brand’s in-house We The Free denim collection including flares, wide legs and skinny styles.

Founded in Philadelphia, Free People is part of URBN’s portfolio, which also includes Urban Outfitters, BHLND, Terrain and Vetri.

Image: Free People Facebook