AS the relaunch of its London stores took place, founder and designer of Paul & Joe Sophie Albou was in buoyant mood. The King’s Road store reopened earlier this week – with Covent Garden and the flagship Sloane Street boutique set to trade on Friday – and Albou told VOGUE.COM what’s next for the quirky French outfit.
"Twelve years on from the launch," Albou reflected, "the spirit and vision of Paul & Joe does not cease to evolve and to build on its already internationally renowned success. For spring/summer, myself and the French team are very proud and happy to take over the London boutiques, sharing Paul & Joe’s own vision and spirit," Albou reflected.
The London sites, which were previously operated as franchises, closed earlier this year amid rumours of money troubles for the label. VOGUE.COM announced in early March that the truth behind the speculation was a restructure, not a closure and Albou insists the brand will be the better for it.
"The Paul & Joe boutiques breathe a positive, fresh and elegant touch," Albou explained following the changes. "The London boutiques are in perfect harmony with how the brand is developing and will present other aspects of the Paul & Joe universe: a jewellery, watch and sunglasses line and the launch of La Maison -a project very close to my own heart."