After nearly four decades as a cornerstone of Birmingham’s independent retail scene, Autograph, a beloved clothes shop located on Ethel Street, has closed its doors. Established in 1988 by Carl Lester, Autograph was renowned for offering exclusive menswear from high-profile designers such as Maison Margiela, Rick Owens, Raf Simons, Vivienne Westwood, and emerging Japanese labels. It attracted fashion enthusiasts from across the UK and beyond, celebrated for its unique curation and close designer relationships cultivated over 20 years.
The store had become one of only two remaining businesses on Ethel Street, a once-thriving retail area nestled between New Street and the train station. While Autograph survived formidable challenges including the opening of the Bullring shopping centre in 2003, the 2008 financial crisis, and the pandemic-related lockdowns, the mounting difficulties of operating in a declining city centre finally took their toll.
Imraan Ahmed, the current owner who has been involved with Autograph for three years, expressed sorrow over the closure but remains hopeful about the future. “We were award-winning and recognized by the people we wanted to reach,” he said. “Our customers ranged from teenagers to octogenarians, drawn by our exclusive collaborations and designer offerings. There was truly nothing else like us.”
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Ahmed highlighted the deteriorating conditions of Ethel Street as a major factor in the decision to close. “There’s nothing left now but delivery drivers and mess every morning. The street feels abandoned. We were the last bastion, but the environment became very uninviting,” he remarked. This sentiment was echoed by Erminio Shahmani, owner of La Galleria, currently the only shop still operating on the street, who described the area as “like a warzone.”
Autograph’s legacy extends to pioneering concept menswear retailing in the UK and being among the first to stock cutting-edge international creators. It earned accolades from British GQ and The Times, affirming its status as one of the country’s finest independent stores.
Looking ahead, Ahmed is preparing to relaunch Autograph with a fresh identity in a new location on Ludgate Hill in the Jewellery Quarter. Plans include a broader concept integrating art, undiscovered brands, and deeper community engagement within a residential neighbourhood. “We’re moving away from the difficulties of the city centre—traffic, cleanliness, and accessibility are major obstacles here. Parking was once simple but now is nearly impossible, costing us significant sales,” Ahmed explained. “To leave when we did was a blessing. Unfortunately, I believe there are tougher times ahead for Birmingham.”
The reopening, targeted for the end of May, promises a revitalized experience that reconnects with local residents and reinvents the store’s groundbreaking spirit. Supporters and customers can follow Autograph’s journey on Instagram for updates on this exciting new chapter.