Headed by a designer Sonia Rykiel who embodied the inimitable Parisian elegance through knitwear, the eponymous brand had been a fixture in the fashion scene for decades. But following Rykiel’s much-publicised passing in 2016, the company sailed into choppy waters, leading to its demise only three years later. But given the brand legacy and stature of Sonia Rykiel, it was eventually New York City-based GIII apparel group, owner of leading brands such as Calvin Klein, Levi’s and DKNY, which provided the house a new lease on life. The newly opened boutique in Monte-Carlo bears witness to this turnaround. Situated at Le Métropole, a sumptuous shopping centre brimming with high-end brands, the store occupies an elongated 70 sqm. (753 sq.ft.) unit on Level 2.
The boutique has been created by Paris-based interior design and architecture practice Uchronia. Having laid down the brand’s retail design codes for previous boutiques and ephemeral spaces, the aesthetic won’t come as a surprise for the Sonia Rykiel fanbase. Boldly referencing Sonia Rykiel‘s playful use of colour and keen eye for graphics, the premises are imbued in bright hues. Additionally, bands of colour are combined with black, as seen on a seating arrangement, referencing the brand’s signature style. Shiny brushed steel, used as cladding for recessed shelving and standalone shelving units, one marked by alcoves and the other by dividers in different colours, add a distinct contemporary element to the premises. The new Sonia Rykiel boutique carries the full range of women’s apparel, bags and accessories.
Sonia Rykiel
Le Métropole, 17 avenue des Spélugues, Level 2
98000 Monaco
Telephone: +377 93258370
Mon-Sat 10am-7.30pm
Publishers Note
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