Joan and Sidney Burstein purchased Browns from Sir William Piggot Brown
The 1970’s was a bold and overstated era in the fashion department, giving us hippie chic, power dressing, glam rock and even punk – all within an exceptional 10-year timeframe. We haven’t even paid homage to Bo Derek’s braids (shout out to Bo). But the most exceptional fashion moment of all? Well that’s a no-brainer. Browns launched into the London scene in 1970 - a MAJOR fashion moment, folks.
Between 1970 and 1979 Browns grew to include shops 27,26,25 and 23 South Molton Street. In 1976 they opened 6C Sloane Street
At a time when there were no multi-brand boutiques, Joan Burstein and her husband Sidney bought the first of five Georgian townhouses on South Molton Street and changed the course of retail and fashion history forever. True story.
After a chance meeting between Mrs B and Calvin Klein at Studio 54, saw the UK launch of Calvin Klein at Browns, 24 South Molton Street.
The first to introduce brands such as Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein to the UK, the latter secured via a meeting at Studio 54 – Mrs B sidled through the wild dancers to approach the rising fashion designer which was every bit as fabulous as you imagine. The wonderful Mrs B also discovered home grown talents like Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, championing them in a way that no one else could and flying the flag for fashions new spirit of individuality which is a flag that’s been flying ever since.
Browns opens first Comme des Garçons womensweer Shop-in-Shop in the UK at Browns, South Molton Street
Until Browns, graduates didn't sit in boutiques alongside big designers, so this unique edit and the discovery of these talents changed not only how Browns and future retailers looked at clothes, but where we looked FOR them.
Browns exclusively launches Jil Sander, opening the first UK store on South Molton Street
Caroline Burstein joins Browns and is appointed Creative Director
The search for creativity, innovation and originality continues to define the Browns spirit and in 2015, Farfetch - also known for its pioneering approach, bought and invested in Browns. We like to think it was their smartest move yet. But that’s not all, you stylish ladies and gentlemen. Holli Rogers joined team Browns as CEO that same year and has been busy making her indelible mark on the business ever since, leaving sprinkles of joy in her ever-so-stylish wake.
Now that we have combined the Browns DNA with Farfetch's tech brilliance, Browns is on a journey to harmonise the best parts of the beloved boutique shopping experience with the speed and convenience of e-tail. And you’re invited to join the party.
Excited? We thought so. Go forth and explore our digital home, and if you fancy saying hello IRL, pop into the store - we’d love to see you.