PREPPY CLOTHES PROVE XMAS HIT

TWO preppy clothing stores enjoyed bumper Christmas sales as demand for posh outdoor wear soars.

Christmas sales at Fat Face, which sells patterned scarves, coloured chinos and slouchy handbags, jumped by 8pc in the five weeks to January 6, as customers flocked to its stores in the US and the Republic of Ireland, pushing up international sales by 49pc.

Anthony Thompson, chief executive, said its decision to hold off on cutting prices until after Christmas paid off.

Joules, known for its floral wellies, stripey tops and brightly coloured raincoats, reported a 19.2pc boost to sales in the seven weeks to January 7.

The retailer, which has 117 stores in the UK and Ireland, was boosted by a strong performance across both its online business and shops, as it chose to be more selective with promotional activity.