Blackburn + Sweetzer Has Moved

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I haven’t been to Topshop in NYC (only been to Topshop in London), but I’ve heard complaints from people who fell in love with the fast fashion chain in the UK, but have been disappointed by the incarnation stateside. Which I think is a pretty big lesson. Customers love a brand, and want it close to them. They don’t want the brand-for-the-US-market. AllSaints‘ North American PR point person, Jennifer Walker, assures that while each shop has its unique elements, the UK brand is not changing for the US market, a presence which will be felt strongly in the next three-five years with 30-50 stores opening in key cities across the country. Spring 2010 will bring Miami and Soho outposts for starters (there’s currently a shop in shop in NYC).

But for now, we get the first shot in the US to shop AllSaints at its 100 North Robertson Boulevard boutique, just opened yesterday. And, indeed, it feels very British, with its bit of a darker side, a tattered and tough luxe, directional design. For men, women and kids ($35-$65), you’ll find loads of leather jackets and bags ($250-$800), denim ($90-$150), myriad workwear boots, laced and buckled (around $250), plus lots of dresses ($100-$500), substantial knits and wool overcoats.

More photos, more on the merch…

For women, you’ll notice AllSaints’ signature voluminous skirting on dresses, an effect created by a system of ties. The volume and drape-iness can be seen throughout the collection on sweaters, a Vivienne Westwood-esque blazer, a cowl-like neckline on a wool coat, or a skirt with asymmetrical diagonal pleats.

It’s all about a lot of texture. For men, you’ll see it on a leather moto jacket or even plaid button-downs. There’s always some AllSaints touch, which makes everything feel a bit antique-ed but not worn; not in the buying jeans with a bunch of holes way, but rather, these boots are ready for me to jump in and wear out the store this instant.

And the store. I love the store—exposed brick, wood-beamed ceiling with skylights, a wall of ram skulls behind the counter (the brand’s logo), vintage printing presses and looms fitted with shelving, wood and steel floors, those vintage Singer sewing machines in the windows.

AllSaints brings a whole new allure to Robertson and I will be returning, specifically Mon-Sat 10am-7pm and Sun 11am-6pm.

» Shops—AllSaints, Fingers Crossed, Opens Tomorrow on Robertson Boulevard
» Shops—Beach Bunny Swimwear and AllSaints Show Signs on Robertson
» Shops—AllSaints and Beach Bunny Swimwear to Robertson, AllSaints Also to Malibu, NYC and Miami