You may not realise it yet but there’s probably an irresistible piece with your name on it at a most fashionably unique Aberdeen shop.
It could be some classic black cashmere with a rainbow of buttons, a sumptuous knitted mink cape or a silver-trimmed, plunge-back LBD.
And once you discover it the chances are you will just have to have it, for the collections at French outfitter Escale just ooze luxury and that indefinable Gallic chic.
Exclusive Scottish stockists of Jean Paul Gaultier, JC de Castelbajac and designers including Eyedoll , Ananke, Hotel Particulier, Estheme and Axara, Escale is owned by the effortlessly elegant Karine Franck who swapped runways – from aviation to fashion – to set up the George Street store.
Originally from Metz, Karine was an air traffic controller with the French navy before deciding to take off in an entirely different direction. She learned the retail trade through working with family friends in France and then scoured Paris for the brands to bring to Aberdeen.
As a result Escale, with its understated navy and white décor, is the backdrop for a treasure trove of high- quality, original clothing and accessories – some are single pieces, most are stocked in only twos or threes – and an offering unique to the city.
Some may be brands favoured by Lady Gaga, Katy Perry and Madonna, but all are accessible to a wide age range. And best of all, Karine is on hand to dispense some priceless French style advice.
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 6.30pm, until 7.30 on Thursdays and from 12 noon on Sundays in the run-up to Christmas, Escale – as its name translates – is the perfect stopover for a spot of truly Parisian retail therapy.