Melinda Gloss opens new store in Paris

By

Florent Gilles

Published
May 12, 2014

Matthew Ménonville and Rémi de Laquintane have a lot on their plate. Having attracted a new investor a few weeks ago, big plans and projects now loom on the horizon for the Parisian duo behind Melinda Gloss.

The agenda for the coming months includes: a fourth menswear show scheduled for June, potentially representing European menswear at the next Woolmark Prize and finally, the launch of a new 100 square meter store on boulevard Filles du Calvaire in Paris’ eleventh arrondissement.

The future Melinda Gloss store will replace its current store on rue de Saintonge, the success of which dictated the decision to seek a larger location. The store concept will be designed by architect Franklin Azzi, who would like to create the atmosphere of a “boudoir for men", according to the brand.

The area on the northern border of the Marais proved a wise choice for A.P.C. and previously Ami Alexandre Mattiussi. Maison Kitsuné’s will also soon open Parisian flagship there. These same “contemporary" brands can also be found on the left bank - rue Madame specifically, the street where, in 2012, Melinda Gloss opened its second Parisian store in a building that formerly housed a bank.

The Parisian duo Mathieu Ménonville and Rémi de Laquintane gained a new private investor a few weeks ago, having been courted by several banks and investment funds. The team is expanding, having recently created a new international sales position.

“Every year we see an increase in turnover of over 50%," notes Matthew Ménonville, without going into the fine details, but adding that the brand now works with hundreds of wholesale outlets. In terms of wholesale, the Japanese market that is the biggest with 27 outlets, followed by North America.

Melinda Gloss’ distribution network has been revamped for next summer to target more premium locations. The collections have become more striking, going so far as to offer colored leather jackets "which are selling very well in Asia." Prices, however, have not changed. The brand is maintaining its position on the threshold of the luxury segment where it has seen a great deal of success.

Melinda Gloss will compete in July to become the European finalist at the International Woolmark Prize 2014/2015, which is opening a menswear category for the first time this year.