World tour of the fashion boutiques that made an impression in 2022

By

Marion Deslandes

Translated by
Cassidy STEPHENS

Published
Jan 2, 2023

FashionNetwork.com takes a look at the most striking store openings around the world that took place last year. A non-exhaustive (and subjective) panorama of ten locations, from New York to Seoul through London, from mid-range to luxury. An illustrated journey.

Balenciaga blows hot and cold in London

In the spring of 2022, Balenciaga put on an event in the British capital, opening two stores, one after the other, with opposite designs. First, a vast 710 square meter Brutalist-inspired boutique on New Bond Street, with a stripped-down, raw design, then a pop-up store all in pink fur to showcase the brand's it-bag named 'cagole'. Two rooms, two atmospheres, to maintain an element of surprise, and arouse interest.

Mango Teen goes bright in Barcelona

The Spanish retailer Mango has given a new concept to its Teen section, dedicated to teenagers, by calling on the architectural studio Masquespacio. The 120 square-meter space is divided into two bold colors, green and orange, with the aim of bringing "the world of dreams into reality". A unique and playful interior.

Hermès goes big in New York

Following the merger of three buildings on Madison Avenue, the French fashion house inaugurated a New York store in October. The 1,881 square-meter space offers several salons and showcases all sixteen of the Hermès divisions. The space is also used to exhibit works of art from the Art Deco world that characterize the upscale Upper East Side.

Marni displays its creativity in Milan

In June, Marni opened a colorful flagship in Milan's famous Via Montenapoleone, offering an almost sensory experience, with mirrored ceramic tiles on the walls and ceilings, fur, and ultramarine blue carpets. Francesco Risso, creative director of the OTB Group brand, describes the space as "a transversal cultural space where fashion design, interior architecture and creativity converge."

Van Cleef & Arpels unveils a nature-inspired showcase in Seoul

Last summer, the Richemont Group's jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels built a five-story flagship store in the chic Gangnam-gu district of Seoul, South Korea. The design was entrusted to the Jouin Manku studio, which brought nature into the building, whose facade is covered in the brand's dear rhombus shapes.

Zara opens its largest store in Madrid

The Spanish fast-fashion giant opened its largest store in the world in Madrid in April, covering 7,700 square meters on four levels. The atmosphere is pure and minimalist, with a range of new customer services. Thanks to the brand's mobile application, customers can be directed in store to an item spotted online, or book a fitting room, while virtual mirrors allow them to test the make-up line.

Louis Vuitton camps in Saint-Moritz

Since December 16, 2022 and until April 10, the LVMH giant has been presenting its products in a luxury yurt in St. Moritz, at a ski resort in the Swiss Alps. An immaculate construction with the Louis Vuitton emblems on the façade, and a cosy interior -with a wood fire-, which is only accessible by appointment.

Nike plays the game in London

In July, the American brand opened a store in the Westfield White City shopping center in London, unveiling its new concept called 'Rise', for the first time in Europe. A playground of 1,500 square meters lined with screens focused on digital innovation and personalization.

Gucci parks in Detroit

In August, Gucci inaugurated a vast green and yellow store in downtown Detroit in the United States, respecting the historical identity of the building, its glass tiles and its wrought ironwork. The Italian label, part of the Kering group, is one of the first big names in luxury to set up shop in the city with its automotive heritage, and will soon be followed by Yves Saint Laurent, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Max Mara takes off in Tokyo

In November, the Italian fashion house Max Mara opened a flagship store in Tokyo, in the luxury district of Omotesando. The multi-level store, which houses an imposing metal staircase decorated with mirrors, is the brand's second location in the Japanese city.