Overview
Brisbane has a new home for luxury retail, with the arrival of The New Trend (TNT) on James Street. Founded by Vanessa Spencer in Melbourne in 2017, the multi-brand retailer has gradually expanded to numerous brick-and-mortar locations in both Victoria and New South Wales. Now, a brand-new flagshop store is set to make contemporary fashion more accessible.
At the heart of the brand's success is its carefully curated selection. Serving as a go-to destination for global fashion powerhouses like The Attico, Coperni and Wardrobe NYC, each store also offers several leading designers from Australia and New Zealand. Think Christopher Esber, Alemais, ESSE Studios, Wynn Hamlyn and Harris Tapper.
Yet what sets TNT apart from other Fortitude Valley spots is how it operates as more than just a stockist. Through meaningful dialogue with the local brands it believes in, a collaborative approach puts considered feedback and development support front and centre. Together, this creates a robust platform that aims to elevate local designers into international names.
The new James Street boutique will help support this aspiration. Thoughtfully located in a high-end retail precinct like TNT's other stores, renowned interior design studio AKI was brought on board to shape a suitably refined, inviting space that complements the building's existing facade and architectural context.
Browsing the racks at TNT James Street, shoppers will be immersed in natural light, with high ceilings, layered textures and organic materials that reflect the luxe garments on display. Meanwhile, custom-designed furniture produced by local designers adds to the sophisticated atmosphere, where every detail has been carefully crafted with purpose.
As for the client experience, personalised attention transforms retail therapy into a VIP encounter. Inside dedicated styling suites, knowledgeable staff offer one-on-one advice so you nail your dream look. Plus, select appointments come complete with refreshments and champagne — a tailored experience you won't get scrolling at home.
The New Trend is now open Monday–Friday from 9.30am–5.30pm, Saturday from 9.30am–5pm and Sunday from 10am–4pm at Shop 3, 48 James Street, Fortitude Valley. Head to the website for more information.
