French Sole opening in Leeds

Footwear brand French Sole, known for its ballet flats, is to open its first store outside of London at Leeds’ luxury retail destination,

Victoria Quarter, as part of the brand’s UK expansion plan.

The 200 square foot shop, due to launch at the end of February, will front onto Vicar Lane within the Grade ll listed arcade, and will carry its signature ballet flats, along with special editions and selected ranges specifically designed for the Victoria Quarter store.

French Sole’s founder, Jane Winkworth, said: “We are delighted to work with Hammerson in bringing our iconic brand to the north of England for the first time. The Victoria Quarter is the perfect location for our first French Sole store outside of London – the surrounding fashion and lifestyle brands complement ours and target a similar customer.

“This will be the first opening in our UK expansion plan with further stores to open later this year.”

Victoria Quarter, centre manager John Bade, added: “French Sole is the perfect addition to the Victoria Quarter. Complementing the offering of existing retailers perfectly, it is real testament to the quality of our retail offer that French Sole has chosen the Victoria Quarter for its first store outside of London.”

French Sole, which is celebrating its 25th year in business this year, will join luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Vivienne Westwood and Mulberry, who anchor the Hammerson-owned Victoria Quarter.