How Whistles Reemerged as One of the Most Exciting Contemporary Brands in Fashion
2008 was not an easy year for many in the fashion industry -- least of all, perhaps, for Jane Shepherdson. The former Topshop brand director, once described as "the most powerful woman on the high street," had just become chief executive of (and a substantial investor in) a fading British brand called Whistles. Days before the brand was scheduled to unveil its relaunch, Lehman Brothers collapsed. "It was terrible," Shepherdson recalls. "The whole year was just really, really stressful -- I lost about a stone." It's clear that things are not so terrible for Shepherdson now. To say that it's a busy time at Whistles is an understatement. We asked Shepherdson about how Whistles survived -- and reinvented itself -- during those tough early years, its plans for international expansion and its hopes for a show at New York Fashion Week. You started at Whistles seemingly at the worst possible time -- right before the Lehman collapse. Yes, it was terrible. What was the turning point? No, it isn't.
Jane Shepherdson
Chief Executive at Whistles, Jane Shepherdson is the figurehead of our brand. Originally from Bristol, she studied in London and worked as Brand Director at Topshop. With an uncanny ability to know what women want to wear, she has been working her magic at Whistles since 2008. Here, we find out a bit more about her world. Can you describe what you do at Whistles? What would you say the Whistles aesthetic is, then? Is that quite a modern way of dressing? They’re pieces women can slot into their wardrobe… Yes, that’s important – but we also want to provide solutions. Have you seen women wearing Whistles on the street? Is it inspiring when you see real women wearing it? How else do you keep up with what women want out of their clothes? So you could be in a Whistles store and be served by Jane Shepherdson? Is there anyone you have in mind when thinking about the Whistles woman? How do you feel about being a role model to younger women in fashion?
Awards | YCN Student Awards | 2014-15 YCN Student Awards | Briefs | Whistles
Design a concept and campaign for the first ever Whistles scent Background Whistles is a leading British contemporary fashion brand that encapsulates an intelligent sense of design with timeless and luxurious pieces. In September 2014, Whistles launched its hotly anticipated debut men’s collection. The Whistles Woman: Intelligent, independent, discerning. She wants clothes that cater to all parts of her purposeful life. The Whistles Man: Aware, selective, confident. He values contemporary design with modern utility. Our PR & Marketing Strategy We create bespoke seasonal in-house marketing and press strategies. We partner with internationally renowned photographers, stylists and art directors to create our campaigns and capture our brand season on season. Our Retail Strategy Our stores are relaxed, contemporary spaces that focus on exceptional service. Regular arrivals of stock and editorial content enrich the evolving ecommerce experience, driving footfall and increasing engagement. Byredo
Whistles conquers the 'middle market' of British womenswear | Fashion
While Marks & Spencer announced a 6.8% drop of general sales last month, another corner of the British high street has been quietly flourishing. Whistles, the clothing brand set up by Lucille Lewin in the 1980s, announced this week that it had bought back the majority of its shares from the Icelandic government, a move which has underlined its growing strength. Whistles, which has been independent since parting ways with the retail group Mosaic in 2008, has gone from strength to strength despite a tough economic climate. Sales were up 13% in 2011 and there was "consistent double digit like for like sales growth," this year, according to a company statement. Whistles is also the bestselling premium high street brand on Asos, the online retailer. This success is largely due to Jane Shepherdson, the influential retail visionary who became chief executive at Whistles, after eight years as brand director at Topshop, in 2008.
Whistles Report - www.amymundey.blogspot.com
Within the second half of my first year at University we were set a brief that continued with theme of the United States and the United Kingdom UK brand opening retail store in US market place You must produce a 3,000 word report on the following topic: Moving one of the following UK retail brands into the American market: 1) size? 2) Whistles 3) Accessorize 4) Thorntons 5) Duffer of St.George As part of the launch you must include a collaboration. Your report should include the following sections: PEST analysis, focusing particularly on the social element. SWOT analysis of your chosen brand and one of a close competitor. Consider the cultural differences that may need to be addressed by the brand/retailer to ensure a successful launch. Consumer segmentation: identify your target consumer, including pen portrait and visuals. Ideas for flagship store environment. You should pay particular attention to the visual look of your report. They must be produced on Photoshop:
Skirts | Pencil, Tube & Midi skirts
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