Built in 1871 by Corbett, Raby and Sawyer, Manchester’s Barton Arcade is one of the city’s most spectacular hidden gems and a retail haven. Ornate tiled floors overlooked by balcony levels complete with iron lacework, this historic shopping centre connects Deansgate with St Anne’s Square, but is one of town’s most beautiful destinations in its own right. Exactly the kind of place that would suit NOLA, then, a high end womenswear specialist which opened here in 2023. A stunning store that stocks guest labels alongside its own lines of wonderful designs, none of which you’ll be able to find anywhere else.
“Our pieces are intended to work with the rest of your wardrobe and are designed for comfort,” the team say of their exclusive creations. “We use predominantly deadstock luxury fabrics such as Yorkshire wools, Irish linens and organic cottons sourced from local markets, fairs and small factories in the North West. Fabrics are super limited so our pieces are often one-of-a-kind.” The result is a collection of infinitely wearable, eye-catching contemporary clothing made to impeccable standards, from pants to grab bags, shorts to high skirts, bonnets to kimonos and almost anything else between.
External labels are all chosen on similar merit — items that are very well produced and always timeless in terms of trends. But buyers also go to great lengths sourcing brands which are less commonly found in Manchester and the North West, drawing on classic styles to give customers exclusives and rare finds. Finally, a fabulous homeware selection is available along with a great range of gifts ideas, greetings cards and other smaller purchases. Alongside the amazing choice, NOLA is known for its friendly and approachable staff, who are on hand to share their expert knowledge, recommend specific pieces, and help make sure each customer walks away happy.