Celebrating 40 Years Of Style

Accent Clothing in Leeds is marking its 40th anniversary this year. It’s a journey that has seen the store adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs of the fashion-conscious.

Founded in 1984 as a denim boutique, Accent Clothing has transformed from a small store in Queens Arcade into a multi-brand retailer with a growing online store for men and women.

We spoke to buying and commercial director Ian Kelly, whose passion for fashion and commitment to quality underscores the brand’s continued success.

In 1984, Leeds was a bustling industrial city on the cusp of change, with a thriving local community but a retail sector that looked vastly different from today. Over the past four decades, Leeds has seen significant redevelopment, with new retail complexes like Trinity and Victoria Gate redefining the city’s shopping scene. Accent Clothing has evolved from denim specialists to a retailer known for high-quality designer clothing for men, women, and children.

Ian Kelly says: “Accent’s strategy has always focused on customer satisfaction and offering a unique shopping experience. While some retailers have struggled to maintain a personal touch, Accent has retained its independent spirit, with many staff members having been with the company for over 20 years. This loyalty fosters a connection with customers, many of whom visit regularly to reconnect with familiar faces and find something distinct.”

The retail landscape in Leeds is more competitive than ever, with fast-fashion giants and online marketplaces vying for attention. Accent Clothing has adapted to these challenges by embracing digital growth and expanding its online business, which is now an essential part of its operations.

Online sales have opened Accent’s collections to a broader, more diverse audience, including international shoppers who value the brand’s high customer service. Despite this shift, the physical store remains integral to Accent’s identity.

While online customers often explore the brand’s range of women’s accessories and footwear, the Leeds location specialises in men’s fashion, offering footwear and clothing that cater to a loyal following.

Accent’s unique position as a multi-brand retailer allows it to offer an alternative to fast fashion, catering to customers looking for quality and originality. As Kelly explains, Accent focuses on providing something different—a curated selection of standout pieces, paired with an emphasis on customer service, where each visitor is treated to a personalised shopping experience.

What’s in Style This Season: Key Fashion Trends

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• Sandbanks Puffer
• Replay
• Belstaff
• Paul Smith

As the colder months approach, Accent is highlighting some of the biggest fashion trends for the season. Statement outerwear takes centre stage, with oversized puffer jackets and structured coats providing warmth and style. Accent is also excited to introduce UBR, a new technical outerwear brand from Copenhagen known for its innovative, high-performance materials. Additionally, classic brands like Belstaff and Sandbanks, partly owned by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp, remain customer favourites thanks to their mix of style, quality, and heritage. Another notable trend is the resurgence of Aquascutum, known for its bold check patterns.

Shoppers are also increasingly buying items with earthy tones inspired by the outdoors, especially in shades of green and brown. According to Kelly, these tones are outselling the classic black—a shift that reflects customers’ growing interest in embracing nature-inspired palettes.

Sustainability has become a priority for Accent Clothing and the broader fashion industry. Accent’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is reflected in its partnerships with brands that prioritise responsible sourcing and manufacturing. Nudie Jeans, for instance, uses fair-trade and recycled cotton and ensures fair wages for workers, while Replay has adopted water-saving technologies like laser printing to reduce environmental impact. The trend towards sustainable materials extends to outerwear, with more brands opting for synthetic fibres over goose down to offer a more responsible alternative.

With an eye on the future, Accent Clothing is focused on expanding its online presence even further. Kelly anticipates continued growth in the e-commerce space, where Accent’s brand can reach a global audience without compromising its dedication to personal customer service.

As Leeds experiences a retail renaissance, with new and refurbished stores drawing more footfall to Briggate and beyond, Accent is well-positioned to continue its success.

As it celebrates 40 years in business, Accent Clothing is a testament to the power of customer service, strategy, and adaptation in a rapidly changing fashion world.