*Spotlight On* – Simply French 24 Sep 2020
Simply French is a ladies’ fashion boutique situated on Holywell Hill selling ‘Pret-a-Porter’ (that’s ready-to-wear) French branded clothing and accessories including dresses, separates, knitwear and accessories. They pride themselves on providing high quality, unique pieces that are incredibly well priced.
“With over 5o years in retail, I love nothing more than helping customers find the perfect items. You can see and feel the quality of our items and we are on hand to help with bespoke advice and styling. An experience that you simply can’t get online
Lesley’s extensive career has taken her all over the world, including working as Retail Director for Benetton when it was in its heyday. When Lesley retired in 2005, her love for boutique fashion was so strong that she decided to open Simply French in her hometown of St Albans.
We talked to Lesley to find out more about her unwavering passion for continental fashion:
What makes Simply French so unique?
Customers love to shop with us because they enjoy the personal service and that we offer products that are not your usual high street pieces. They also really like that whilst we have higher end products, the prices are affordable. You will always get a great service with us and we are on hand to help everybody achieve the best look for them. We hope that they enjoy shopping with us. That’s what it’s all about!
What are your bestsellers?
Because there aren’t any big occasions, such as weddings, the races and such-like due to COVID-19, we are selling more casual every-day wear. Our trouser lines are incredibly popular along with our knitwear and we always have a large selection of scarves and wraps – which we are known for – as they are different in style to what is available in the high street and accessories are the simplest way to elevate an outfit.
What can people expect to pay?
We have accessories that start at £25 and jackets that are priced up to £150 whilst knit wear starts at £49 and trousers £59.
What do you love about running a business in St Albans?
I have lived here for over 50 years, arriving in the 60’s, and I love St Albans because it is an interesting town with lots to offer. It has a marvellous café society and a lovely mix of independent shops that people like to support.
Your windows always look great!
Being on Holywell Hill, we are a destination shop. People don’t tend to wander up and down it, so we change our window displays every week to catch the eye of passersby as they stop at the lights!
What inspires your buying
We always aim to create a continental look and to offer items that are a bit different but still very wearable – items that customers can put on and wear day in and day out. Everything I buy is designed to stand the test of time in both its style and durability.
Where can people find out more about you?
Customers can visit our website www.simplyfrench.me or follow us on social media @simplyfrenchfashion.