Browns: A History of Fashion
Browns changed the course of fashion retail history when it opened in 1970, as a leader in fashion and the UK's first multi-brand luxury boutique. A champion of next generation design, Browns continues its legacy, sourcing fresh talent to add to its ever-growing community of creative innovators.
1970s
1970
Introducing... Browns
Joan and Sidney Burstein purchase Browns from Sir William Piggott Brown in 1968. In 1970, they launch their new luxury fashion boutique on South Molton Street in the heart of London’s Mayfair.
1979
Browns South Molton Street Expands
Between 1970 and 1979 Browns grew to include shops 27,26,25 and 23 South Molton Street. At a time when there were no multi-brand luxury boutiques, Joan Burstein (affectionately known as Mrs B) and her husband Sidney changed the course of retail and fashion history.
1980s
1984
Championing New Designers
After seeing John Galliano's graduate show at Central Saint Martins, Mrs B buys the entire collection and displays it in the windows of Browns South Molton Street.
1990s
1990
A Next Generation
Over the next decade, Browns welcomes designers such as Jil Sander, Versace and Alexander McQueen, carving out Browns' reputation for spotlighting the superbrands of tomorrow.
1997
Browns Focus
Browns opens Browns Focus at 24 South Molton Street. Designed by architect David Adjaye, the boutique becomes a platform for new design talent and a space to allow young designers to develop into household names.
2000s
2006
Mrs B gets a CBE
Joan Burstein receives a CBE from the Queen for her services to the British fashion industry.
“I'm simply thrilled about this – now I just have to worry about what to wear for the Queen!”
- Joan Burstein
2007
Browns Goes Online
After 30 years in the fashion spotlight, Browns launches its e-commerce site brownsfashion.com, making the Browns experience accessible both online and in store.
2010s
2015
Farfetch Invests in Browns
The search for creativity and innovation continues to define the Browns spirit and in 2015, Farfetch invests in Browns. Holli Rogers joins as CEO, bringing with her the same spirit of creativity, originality and fun.
2016
Browns Gets A Rebrand
For the first time in 40 years, Browns launches a rebrand, refreshing all online and offline elements with a new logo.
“Browns was founded 47 years ago and now was the right time to re-invigorate our branding as we enter into a new era for Browns.”
- Holli Rogers
“In creating the overall Browns Nomad concept and opening Browns East, we’ve gone back to our roots, with innovation at the heart.”
- Holli Rogers
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