It seems to be long overdue since the company has been so successful here at home, but amid the recent global economic crisis that saw some brands fold completely, perhaps a wisely delayed venture. With future plans to make expansion in places like Tokyo and Toronto, the company’s quest for international growth is well on its way.

The new store locale is a 1,507 square-foot, freestanding building located in London’s Covent Garden district, and will offer collections for men, women and kids, also including denim, sportswear and handbags. {Shopping Blog}

“We are excited about our first branded retail store in the UK, as this marks a key milestone in the evolution of the True Religion brand to a global retail platform,” said Jeffrey Lubell, chairman, chief executive officer and chief merchant of True Religion Apparel, Inc. “With our Covent Garden store, we have a strong opportunity to build upon our brand’s success in London’s premier department stores and boutiques and further grow our brandâ€s presence.”

Further comments from the Brand’s President, Michael Buckley read, “We are evaluating our international opportunities on a market-by-market basis and look forward to achieving significant international growth.” {Denim Blog}

Covent Garden district is one of the busiest shopping and tourist destinations in the UK, and could be an ideal location for True Religion’s United Kingdom debut.  While the economy is still something of a mixed bag, clothing retailers in both the US and UK have been posting stronger than expected sales and showing signs of recovery.

Beginning today, new Fall/Winter 2009 pieces from Japanese streetwear company BBC/Ice Cream will be available for purchase at the Tokyo flagship store.  In this drop are Chukka boots, tote bags, and a parka featuring the company’s new digi camo print.

We’re relieved that, although the new print is certainly a quirky and creative take on the basic, utterly repulsive not-so-appealing camouflage motif, it appears mainly in small doses on accessories.  (We emphatically pass, however, on the overwhelmingly printed parka, and would prefer acting as though it doesn’t exist.)

Pieces from the mini-collection would look great paired with slouchy, perfectly worn-in tees and your favorite set of bass-pumping headphones.  But please — don’t match your shoes to your bag.

Read the full story {High Snobiety}