Colette Paris was one of the most iconic and trendsetting boutiques in the fashion industry. It was a destination for fashion enthusiasts from all over the world, known for its unique selection of high-end designer clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products.
However, in 2017, to the shock of many, Colette announced that it would be closing its doors after 20 years of operation. This sudden announcement left many wondering why such a prominent and successful store would choose to shut down.
History of Colette
Colette was founded in 1997 by Colette Roussaux, a former Vogue accessories buyer, and her daughter Sarah Andelman. The store was located on Rue Saint-Honoré in Paris and quickly became a hub for fashion insiders and celebrities alike. Colette was known for its eclectic mix of designer clothing, streetwear brands, art books, and other unique products that could not be found anywhere else.
The Closing Announcement
On July 12th, 2017, Colette announced that it would be closing its doors for good on December 20th of the same year. The announcement came as a surprise to many who had followed the store’s success over the years. In a statement released on Instagram, Colette cited personal reasons as the primary factor behind its decision to close.
The Real Reason Behind Colette’s Closure
While personal reasons may have played a part in the decision to close Colette’s doors permanently, there were other factors at play as well. One significant factor was changing consumer behavior. With the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon and online luxury retailers like Farfetch and Net-a-Porter, traditional brick-and-mortar retailers have struggled to keep up with changing consumer preferences.
In an interview with Business of Fashion shortly after announcing their closure, Sarah Andelman stated: “We are a small specialty store in an industry dominated by global luxury brands. It’s become much harder to compete with the big players who offer everything from clothing to accessories to cosmetics and fragrances, all under one roof.”
Another factor that contributed to Colette’s closure was the rising cost of rent in Paris. The store was located on Rue Saint-Honoré, one of the most expensive streets in Paris, and as a result, Colette was paying exorbitant rent prices.
The Legacy of Colette
Despite its closure, Colette’s impact on the fashion industry cannot be understated. Over the years, the store had established itself as a trendsetter and had helped launch the careers of many up-and-coming designers. It had also collaborated with several high-profile brands like Chanel, Nike, and Saint Laurent.
Colette’s legacy lives on through its loyal customer base and through Sarah Andelman’s new project, Just An Idea. Just An Idea is a consulting agency that specializes in brand collaborations and experiential marketing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there were several reasons why Colette chose to close its doors permanently in 2017, it was primarily due to changing consumer behavior and rising rent prices. However, Colette will always be remembered as one of the most influential fashion boutiques of all time. Its unique selection of products and trendsetting approach have left an indelible mark on the fashion industry that will not be forgotten anytime soon.