Spirits are not so high on the High Street today. Another fashion brand has seen its doors shut and its staff made redundant as Orla Kiely enters administration. The fashion and homeware retailer has shut down its website and closed its retail stores after parent company, Kiely Rowan, called in administrators.

What is going on?

Orla Kiely Enters Administration

The company, which is owned by ‘queen of prints’ Irish designer Orla Kiely and her husband, Dermott Rowan, ceased trading on Monday and announced that it was going into liquidation after enduring a difficult period over the past number of years.

The brand was quick to acknowledge the support of its customers and partners, saying, “Thank you for embracing our brand and designs throughout the years and for your ongoing support.” 

Staff were reportedly left in tears after being informed by the retailer’s founder, Kiely, that they were being made redundant.

They were then escorted from the building.

The Retail Sector is Faltering

The brand isn’t the only recent casualty on the high street, as other well-known chains such as New Look, Carphone Warehouse, House of Fraser, Carpetright, and Marks & Spencer have all announced store closures.

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There is Still a Future

But it isn’t all over for Orla Kiely, as Orla Kiely Home and Design-branded accessories and homeware will still be available for purchase through its partners. A spokesman for the brand said:

“Orla Kiely’s home and design licensing business will not be affected, and its selection of accessories and homewares will continue to be sold through its distribution partners.”

Kiely, 55, started her own label 23 years ago while working as a fabric and wallpaper designer. She’s currently being celebrated with a major exhibition at the Fashion and Textile Museum in London, entitled Orla Kiely: A Life in Pattern. The show runs until September 23rd.

Featured Image: depositphotos/Forewer