Style and class

Spotting a gap in the market for timeless pieces with a classic look, Vivien Lauren was launched in 2019 and has gone from strength to strength

woman in cream coat and outfit walking off plane with bag When did you start up and what prompted you to launch the business? It all began with a profound passion for style and class, Vivien Lauren was borne out of a gap found in the fashion market: a difficulty in finding unique, timeless elegant pieces for the classic look, and also not much available as affordable or attainable luxury. Thus, Vivien Lauren was officially launched in 2019.

What challenges have you overcome since the company's launch? Since our inception, we've navigated a myriad of challenges with unwavering determination and creativity. From sourcing premium, sustainable materials to ensuring ethical production practices, we've tackled the complex issues like those brought on by Covid.

Tell us about your product offering. Our fashion offering is more than just a product; it's a testament to the timeless elegance and craftsmanship that epitomizes the very essence of genuine leather. We meticulously curate and design a collection that transcends generations, the fleeting trends, whilst offering an array of exquisite, handcrafted pieces including bags, shoes, mules, shawls and scarfs.

What are your most popular products? It is our Luxury Leather Collections. Have any styles taken you by surprise with their popularity? It is not so much a particular style's popularity, but rather the confirmation of the fact that there is demand for timeless luxury designs from mastered traditional craftsmanship using authentic materials.

How do you keep your designs fresh and current? Do you follow trends? At Vivien Lauren, we epitomise longevity of our designs, departing from fast trends. Our designs outlast seasons, thus giving affordable luxury to our clientele. Our design philosophy is on preserving the enduring appeal of classic styles.

What sets you apart from your competitors? It is our unwavering commitment to uncompromising craftsmanship and beautiful classic designs. Uniqueness, authenticity, sustainability. We believe in the enduring allure of genuine leather, hand-selecting only the finest hides, fabrics and employing master artisanship which meticulously crafts each piece with a passion for perfection.
Also, our take on sustainability – every sale apart from awarding affordable luxury to our customer, directly benefits the communities of craftsmen, by furthering their talent, which remains relevant and protected in this advancing modern age. All our leathers are from cow-hide, as a by-product at the natural end of the food cycle, thereby produced without harm to animals, or to endangered species.
Mastered artistry in Italian handcraftsmanship passed down over generations, a team dedicated to pushing boundaries of design, is at the epitome of crafting of exquisite leather products. These would not only adorn individuals with style but also tell a story of quality, authenticity, and innovation.

red croc effect material bag How are you finding the current climate in the UK? Is it affecting business? We find the current climate in the UK both challenging and invigorating. The ever-evolving landscape, marked by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and economic fluctuations, compels us to use this as a pivot. For us to adapt, continuously innovate, and redefine our presence in the UK market while staying true to our core values and delivering exceptional fashion.

How do you view the future of independent retail and any advice for new businesses starting out in the world of gifts? What we foresee is a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. In an era where consumers increasingly value unique, handcrafted products, independent retailers have a distinct advantage in offering personalized experiences and fostering deep connections with their clientele. Embracing e-commerce and digital marketing will be crucial for reaching a global audience, but the heart of our success will always lie in our commitment to artisanal craftsmanship, sustainability, and storytelling. Independent retail's future is a tapestry of intimate, immersive, and socially responsible commerce, where authenticity and quality serve as a compass in a world of massproduced alternatives.

Are you active on social media? How is this important for the business? We are on social media – actively engaging with fashion lovers from around the world. It is of paramount importance for our business, as it allows us to showcase the craftsmanship and uniqueness of our products. To connect directly with our loyal customers, tap into global trends and consumer preferences. Feedback is immediate, given effortlessly, and the sample space more varied, allowing us to gather invaluable feedback in continuously refining our product offerings.

What can we expect in the future from the company? We are looking to expand our product offering. Currently, we are working on a new product line of leather coats and jackets, towards the creation and offering of a complete attire, the Vivien Lauren Look. We are committed to pushing boundaries of craftsmanship. Blending tradition with modernity. Embracing cutting-edge technologies and materials to create products that are not just a symbol of opulence, but also a testament to our commitment to a better, greener future. Exuding unparalleled style and quality, but also reflect unwavering dedication of catering to the ever-evolving tastes of our discerning customers.

VIVIEN LAUREN
E: info@vivienlauren.co.uk T: +44 (0)7432 138 134  W: www.vivienlauren.co.uk Socials: @vivienlaurencollections

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