Amanda Wakeley buys back own label

Award-winning British designer Amanda Wakeley is back in the game and completed the buyout of her leading designer fashion business. With the acquirement, the fashion designer saved several jobs and secured investment for the future of the brand. It has been over a decade when Amanda Wakeley owned her label.

Before buying out the fashion business, acquired the brand intellectual property in January 2009 from Jason Granite, the former Deutsche Bank distressed debt trader whose other retail investments include Chilli Pepper, Envy and Faith Shoes. Granite and his team conducted a comprehensive restructuring programme at the firm since acquiring the business in December last year.

Amanda Wakeley's current SS09 collection has been well received by both press and buyers and her focused collection AW09, has achieved similar acclaim. Cruise and SS10 collections will be presented in the second half of the year.

Amanda Wakeley said: "This is fantastic news for the brand, for our talented staff and our wonderfully loyal customers. I eagerly look forward to renewing contacts and working with our incredible teams to justify the confidence and support of so many who have encouraged me to take this step over the last few months of transition."

The new business will trade from the flagship store and current headquarters at Fulham Road in London. In addition, the brand will operate through concessions in five Harvey Nichols stores as well as Harrods, Selfridges, House of Fraser and an e-commerce facility. The brand is carried by over 100 international retailers worldwide and has been worn by celebrities including Demi Moore, Charlize Theron and Scarlett Johansson.

Image: Amanda Wakeley RTW SS09