There was a time when Brisbanites with an abiding interest in luxury accessories and hard-to-find runway brands had to travel the world to get their high-fashion fix. Not any more. With the opening of Brisbane’s first dedicated designer accessories boutique - Jean Brown - in Fortitude Valley, local fashionistas can freely avail themselves of the latest styles from lusted-after overseas labels.
The boutique’s ever-expanding brand portfolio includes the (exalted) likes of Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, Balenciaga, John Galliano, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Alexander McQueen, Miu Miu, Derek Lam, Botkier, Viktor & Rolf and - hold your breath - Jimmy Choo. Yes, fellow fashion fiends - we’re talking about the brand made famous around the world after being one of the shoes of choice for the girls in Sex and the City.
“Jimmy Choos are adored across the world and their addition is another example of the desire luxury fashion houses have to make their product available to the Queensland market,” says director and curator Amber Long. “We have spent a great deal of time developing Jean Brown, ensuring each designer is exhibited as an artist in their own right. Such a concept appeals to the fashion houses as their designs are works of art themselves.”
The boutique’s architect-designed Gallery sets the perfect aesthetic to showcase each designer as an artist and master in their field.
“Each collection is unique - from the futuristic elements of Balenciaga, to the classic elegance of Jimmy Choo and the endearing romanticism of Yves Saint Laurent,” Amber says. “These brands don’t follow trends; they make them. One thing in common across all collections, however, is the enduring value of great design.”
Complementing the magnificent collections is a rotating exhibition of Amber’s antique and vintage handbags, showcasing the evolution of design over time. Seeing the classic “old” accessories alongside the exquisite “new” puts fashion in fascinating perspective.
The store even offers a seasonal styling and wardrobe service. This is retail therapy of the highest order!
Flagship store: Shop 62, Emporium, 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Telephone: 07 3257 2888 or www.jeanbrown.com.au
