British luxury fashion brand wears in £55 million to fuel expansion in the U.S.

UK-based women-led luxury fashion brand Me+Em has raised £55 million. The round was led by Highland Europe. The added capital will accelerate the company’s expansion in the U.S., followed by continental Europe, Australia and the Middle East. Going forward, the platform is planning to open new stores in New York and Boston.

Highland Europe will join existing investors, including Sir Charles Dunstone CVO, the executive chairman of TalkTalk, and Venrex Investment Management, which was an early backer of British fintech Revolut, makeup brand Charlotte Tilbury, Not on the High Street and fashion shopping app Lyst.

Founded by British entrepreneur and former advertising executive, Clare Hornby, ME+EM clothes are designed for the busy, modern woman by women. Its sales are almost entirely online, driven by a strong digital presence created through look books, storytelling and a seamless buying journey for its customers.

Regularly worn by the Duchess of Cambridge and Strictly presenter Claudia Winkelman, the brand’s data-driven approach is democratising access to sustainable, long-lasting, contemporary luxury clothing.

Clare Hornby, founder and CEO, ME+EM said: “Having seen soaring demand for our clothes in the U.S. and other key international markets, we know that there is a global appetite for the cut, quality, and style that we have created. As a digital-first, data-driven business we are seeing a huge opportunity ahead of us and with Highland Europe’s expertise in this area, we can use technology to delight and serve our customers across the world even more effectively.”

According to the company, it is cutting out the middlemen and creating pieces in family-run factories using responsibly sourced materials to offer accessible prices. Its data-led approach and direct relationships with manufacturers allow transparency across its entire supply chain.

Sam Brooks, partner, Highland Europe, said: “In addition to the success in the U.K., we are impressed by the strong demand coming from international customers, a testament to its global relevance and appeal.”

Currently, ME+EM has six boutique stores across London, as well as concessions in Harrods, Selfridges London and Selfridges Manchester.