Radley London, renowned for its Scottie dog-stamped leather goods, is switching gears and heading straight for the luxury sector after appointing its first-ever Design Director, Fernando Soriano Iglesias.
Founded by Australian architect-turned-designer Lowell Harder in 1998, Radley is a London-based designs and manufactures luxury handbags, purses and other women’s accessories. Over the past 27 years, Radley has gained a reputation for its practical offering in a rainbow assortment of colours.
With its latest appointment, the brand is looking to add a spring back into its step and Iglesias, who has previously held accessory design roles at Loewe, Calvin Klein and Carolina Herrera, has been selected as the man to do it.
“We looked far and wide for a designer who could take us on this journey, and we found Fernando, who has experience both in luxury and the high street,” said Jackie Hay, Radley’s Chief Product Officer, told WWD.
“We’ve always had beautiful leathers, but they’re even more beautiful now, and the collection brings together design and craft in a new and vibrant way.”
Prior to making its appointment, Radley did extensive research, uncovering Gen Z wanted a pouch or a small bag while Millennials preferred crossbody styles. But, Radley isn’t forgoing its bread and butter – the traditional customer who loves colours, practical pockets, and of course, the instantly recognisable Scottie logo.
Despite being after different styles, most demographics agree on a price point and Radley is determined to keep retail prices below £300. This confirms the brand as an established force in mid-market territory up against competitors such as Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and Coach, who are all based overseas in the US.
Soriano Iglesias has already given Radley’s signature styles long-overdue updates from bags to eyewear, jewellery and beyond.
According to insiders, Soriano Iglesias’ bags are softer and of a higher quality than previous Radley designs. The new Design Director has also introduced new materials such as supple suede and woven yarns to the line-up. Meanwhile, each on-trend but sturdy offering is built to last. The aim? For there to be something for everyone.
His first collection is going on offer to wholesale customers this week and is set to land on shop floors and home pages this August.
Radley is available online at at its two flagships in London and Glasgow as well as at John Lewis. In the US, Radley is sold through Macy’s and is set to add Nordstrom to its growing list of stockists shortly.
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