Paul's Boutique - The Return?

Ten years ago, I would've listed Paul's Boutique as one of my favourite brands. I would check Topshop for the latest drop, and Christmas hint myself silly in Selfridges. It was cool, original, hard to find and hand customised with each bag or jacket rocking a slightly different patch, charm or pattern. We were in love. But then came the inevitable rise to the high street, and our love was torn apart when I started to see 14 year olds carrying bags to school and girls in BANK dripping in diamantes and velour pawing at the PB display with their mums. There's only so much a girl can take when the tweens get hold of a brand. I abandoned ship and watched from a safe place as PB's popular designs and styles were brought down, like UGG and Juicy Couture before it, by the counterfeiters and market stall fakers, while the kids continued to lap it up - real or not. Sad times for us original fans . . . *fade to black* . . . but it seems the sun has not quite set on this story, AW12 sees Paul's Boutique return in a new light.

It's been a long time since I had a look at their online store but it's recently had a revamp so I went for a nose, for old times sake, and had a pleasant surprise! The first thing to catch my eye was this PB VIP camo jacket. It totally smacks of the old school designs from a decade ago, and is definitely more than a step in the right direction, I would totally wear this. The cartoon graphic reminds me of JC/DC, one of my favourite designer labels.

PB VIP Camo Print Army Surplus Jacket £90

The bags have also had a massive redesign for AW12. The bright colours of past seasons have grown up and moved on into neutrals and colourblocking for the new season. It will be interesting to see if they do as well with the usual PB fans, but I think they will definitely attract new ones, as well as reigniting interest with original fans like me, who are now obviously a little older ;)

Limited Edition Phoebe Studded Grey £70


Jessica Tote Navy £65

These are just a few of the obviously new designs for the brand. The new website states that 'The next move for Paul's Boutique is an exclusive leather range for Selfridges and a British made luxury line showing a more mature side without losing all the elements that make the brand playful and stand out.'

I know I'm looking forward to seeing what is coming. It would be really nice to see Paul's Boutique shed the teen dream image it has backed itself into over the last few years, and if a more mature look and higher price point in leather at Selfridges is the way forward then march on PB Army, march on!

J - ATTENNNNNTION!