With growth on various fronts key to its return to former glories, French Connection is now adding the Very platform to its fulsome list of stockist this autumn/winter.

Also expect a menswear addition on the Very platform in time for SS5 and, before then, more store openings this year.

But first the wholesale collaboration with the Very platform that will see a womenswear range that includes occasionwear comprising “sophisticated tailoring and standout dresses” for the upcoming party season.

Aside from its burgeoning list of UK stockists and concessions (including M&S, John Lewis, ASOS, House of Fraser, Fenwick, Elys of Wimbledon and Pearsons of Enfield), French Connection currently operates 19 UK stores, including nine outlets. The aim is to open up to five more stores by the end of this year.

It has already opened stores in Guildford in Surrey, Livingston Designer Outlet near Edinburgh and in Clarks Village in Somerset, plus three John Lewis concessions and two Brown Thomas stores in Ireland this year. The forthcoming new openings are expected to include a combination of full-price and outlet stores across locations including high streets and shopping centres.