*London Atelier. Photo: Jennifer Tattanelli*

Italian luxury brand Jennifer Tattanelli plans to open as many as two Canadian locations, and the brand will use Toronto as its North American launch point. Toronto-based luxury consultancy Winston Collective is representing the Tattanelli brand's North American store expansion, and we interviewed founder Brian Winston for this article.

Founded in Florence in 1971, the Jennifer Tattanelli brand is known for its handcrafted, soft leather goods and garments, all made in Italy. Some leather goods, particularly accessories, feature a unique weave pattern that has become a brand trademark. Hardware is used sparingly, and all materials are of the highest quality. The company manufactures and retails fashions for men and women, including bags, clothing, outerwear, footwear, jewellery and even home goods. Products are also customizable and for the last several years, the company's popular trunk shows have generated millions in revenue and thousands of fans. As a result, the brand's increasing popularity has led Ms. Tattanelli to commence a North American store expansion that will compliment her existing stores in Florence, Italy, London, U.K., as well as a seasonable store in Westhampton Beach, New York.

Tattanelli is working with Toronto-based luxury consultancy Winston Collective on its North American expansion. According to founder Brian Winston, Jennifer Tattanelli is looking to first open a Toronto location measuring between 1,000 and 1,200 square feet on Yorkville Avenue, between Bellair Street and Hazelton Avenue. Although other sites along Yorkville Avenue and Cumberland Street will be considered, Mr. Winston revealed that the stretch of Yorkville Avenue between Bellair and Hazelton will soon become Toronto's luxury retail epicentre, with several top international brands about to announce new store locations.

After establishing its Toronto flagship, Mr. Winston explained that Tatanelli will consider opening a Vancouver store, ideally in the city's 'Luxury Zone' in the vicinity of Burrard Street and Alberni Street. Tattanelli is looking to operate at least seven North American locations, with sights set on New York City, Beverly Hills, Palm Beach, Chicago and other top American retail destinations, according to Mr. Winston.

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web: October 27, 2015