The high-end fashion designer who crafted spectacular dresses worn by Dakota Johnson in two of the Fifty Shades movies is set to open her first standalone UK shop in Mayfair, the Evening Standard understands.
Retail sources said Monique Lhuillier, which designs and sells ready-to-wear, accessories and bridal collections, has agreed to open a branch on South Audley Street.
The company was founded in 1996 by Monique Lhuillier and her husband Tom Bugbee.
High profile “red carpet” clients have included Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Blake Lively, Taylor Swift and Michelle Obama,and the brand is well known for a spectacular silk dress worn by lead character Anastasia Steele in Fifty Shades Darker, and her wedding gown in Fifty Shades Freed.
The company is believed to be taking around 2150 sq ft in London, adding to its three sites in the US.
The brand is also stocked in various boutiques, including in the UK, and latest arrivals on the firm’s website include a £6700 floral strapless sequin cocktail dress.
Monique Lhuillier declined to comment as did property owner Grosvenor.
The deal follows good momentum seen in 2022, with 21 international fashion and footwear brands opening debut London stores. Many entrants expect luxury spend to remain resilient this year.
