Liberty of London S2 E1

 
So it's back! Liberty of London, one of the UK's most prestigious and luxurious department stores has allowed Channel 4 a look inside as they create the second series following the store and events that happen inside. Stocking some of the most glamorous brands such as Versace, Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen, the store attracts aspirational shoppers who all want the most unique and most fashionable clothing and home products possible. 

During this first episode, American managing director, Ed Burstell, introduces a traditional US concept in order to try and discover unique and inspiring products to stock in store whilst also bringing Liberty into the future. This involved an open call pitch for absolutely anybody who felt that their product should be stocked inside Liberty of London, a process which was often used in the 60's by some of the largest US department stores such as Macy's and Bloomingdale's. Ed and the Liberty team find Nancy, who has created a new idea surrounding the nail varnish market, a polish that will smell delicious (Nancy's nails). They also come across a completely new market which would stand out in their store from Baker and Bray, a company who aims to create stylish and practical dog trench coats to sell in the store. The episode follows Ed's meeting with the two hopefuls, as he works with them to hopefully make their dreams come true!

 This episode also touches on the visual merchandising and window displays of the stores, as new head of visual identity, Liz Silvester has the task of restyling the store, in order to create a buzz - particularly with the scarf hall. Scarves have always been a central focus point for Liberty of London, and it's pretty much written in their DNA, so there was a lot of pressure put on Liz in order to impress and make herself stand out, especially after a disappointing start on window displays. But using an army of mannequins draped in scarves from head to toe, the hall is transformed, looking modern, breezy and also somewhat controversial.

 

I can't wait to see what the rest of the series holds for Liberty of London, and love the idea of this documentary as truly allows you to get to know the employees and each of their roles in the store, perfect for someone like myself who is just trying to figure out what exactly it is I want to go into within this huge and complex industry.