A new Preston city centre shop is proving popular with students hungry for vintage ’90s fashion. 

Hollywood Exports opened in September on Fox Street. Co-owner Lisa Pickles, who also runs The Time Train in Clitheroe, said: “We had a successful launch night, and the first weeks have exceeded expectations. We’ve had lots of students in, and the word seems to be spreading organically.

“Apparently we’re the talk of UCLan, and we’ve had students in from Cardinal Newman College too. We’re already seeing the same faces coming back and bringing different friends with them. It’s great to have returning customers so soon. People seem to be enjoying it – they’re giving good feedback and are happy with the prices.”

The shop is owned by a team that includes American TV star Jesse McClure. Jesse handpicks vintage items in California to be shipped over to Lisa and the team in Preston. Another shipment of 800 pieces will be arriving soon.

Read more: Vintage shop with a California twist to open in Preston city centre

Lisa continued: “We get pictures of the stuff from LA and we’re like, ‘Oh my God that’s so cool!’. Then it’s really exciting when it all arrives.

“It’s interesting to see that the more eccentric stuff is selling well. We had a Caesar’s Palace security shirt that was totally random, but the guy who bought it looked ace in it. College football stuff and campus jackets with kids’ names are flying out too.

“We love that people are individual and can express themselves in that way. Vintage really helps with that – it’s not like in a typical high street store where there’s eight of each item on the shelf.”

Although Hollywood Exports stocks earlier pieces, the ’80s and ’90s trend is most popular, and that is reflected in the design of the shop. The counter is made from a wall of VHS, there are replica props from films like Gremlins, and the changing rooms are inspired by Twin Peaks.

Once settled, the Hollywood Exports team are planning to focus on social media and events. They’re also keen to tie in with whatever is happening in the city, and become part of the community.

Lisa said: “We’re planning a party in store for Jesse’s birthday, where we’ll auction off a few items from our new delivery. We’re in talks with UCLan about getting students to customise some of our designer jeans, and Jesse will then pick his favourite pair. Following that the jeans will be sold in store on a profit share basis with the designer.

“We’re also doing a catwalk through the streets of Preston soon, so people should keep their eyes peeled for that.”

You can follow Hollywood Exports on Facebook and Instagram.

Have you been to Hollywood Exports? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.