In the heart of London, nestled amidst the city’s iconic streets, lies a special space—a place where craftsmanship, creativity, and contemporary luxury converge. This year, we opened the doors to Mandkhai’s first flagship store, a dream realized after years of meticulous planning and creative vision.
Our flagship store is more than just a retail space; it’s a window into our world, where the artistry of Mongolian cashmere comes alive and every detail reflects the ethos of our brand.
The Journey: From Concept to Reality
Opening a flagship store was always part of the vision for Mandkhai. While our collections have been available online and through wholesale, cashmere is a material that demands to be touched, felt, and experienced. Having our own space allows us to showcase the full breadth of our collections and invite customers into a universe that encapsulates everything we stand for.
The timing felt right. Over the years, we’ve honed our identity as a brand and expanded our collections to offer enough diversity to fill the store. From planning the layout to selecting the location, every decision was intentional. We created a space that’s modular and flexible, designed to evolve and grow alongside us. It’s not just a store—it’s a form of creative expression, a physical manifestation of who we are and who we aspire to be.
Designing the Space: A Tribute to Nature and Heritage
The design of the store reflects the natural origins of our cashmere. Inspired by the Gobi Desert’s serene beauty, the interiors feature soft, undulating textures and earthy tones reminiscent of the canyon’s morning light. Every detail, from the bleached wood racks to the movable furniture, creates a harmonious flow, ensuring that the space feels alive and organic.
One of Mandkhai’s favorite elements is our cashmere-upholstered armchair. “To me, this is the epitome of luxury—delicate yet utterly comfortable. It represents everything we strive for: craftsmanship, elegance, and a touch of whimsy.”
Collaborating on the design process was transformative. It forced us to think beyond clothing, translating the essence of Mandkhai into an environment. This shift in perspective was a powerful exercise in understanding who we are as a brand.
The Location and the timing
Choosing the location was one of the most important decisions we made. For us, accessibility and centrality were key. The space itself was equally crucial—its rectangular layout and high ceilings provided the perfect foundation for our modular approach.
The process of opening the store wasn’t without its challenges. From logistical hurdles to ensuring safety measures, we faced practical issues that tested our resilience. But every challenge reaffirmed our commitment to creating something extraordinary.
Mandkhai’s advice to any entrepreneur considering opening their own space? “If the idea keeps calling you, don’t ignore it. The risks are real, but so is the reward of seeing your vision come to life.”
Creating a Customer Experience
When customers step into our store, I want them to feel a sense of warmth, discovery, and connection. The store is designed to reflect the versatility and quality of our cashmere, with displays that allow you to explore our collections in a way that feels natural and inviting.
Our hand-embroidered pieces, in particular, have been a delightful surprise. Customers are drawn to the intricate craftsmanship of these shawls, which have garnered admiration from everyone, regardless of gender or style preference.
A Vision for the Future
The opening of our flagship store is a defining moment for Mandkhai. It’s a space where we bring our story to life, share the richness of our culture, and foster deeper connections with our customers. This milestone represents the next chapter in our journey—one that champions sustainability, showcases our manufacturing expertise, and celebrates creativity. We firmly believe cashmere should be treasured for its rarity and luxury.
Looking ahead, this store is not an endpoint but a new beginning. It serves as a foundation for innovation, growth, and an opportunity to continue sharing the timeless beauty of our cashmere with the world.