In the early 90s, skateboarding was the ultimate expression of urban counter-culture. Freedom of life and expression combined with underground aesthetics: skateboarding was ahead of all trends, and, predictably, became extremely popular. Nicolas Ivars started by taking on the role of skate culture pioneer, in Avignon where he was born, and across France, before opening Circle, a multi-brand skate-shop in 1999.

In 2006, the first The Next Door store opened in Avignon. Skateboarding, which had since become a full-fledged urban culture and fashion, is replaced with a more mature and casual clothing selection, with the same street culture undertones. From New York to Los Angeles, and Tokyo, Nicolas Ivars hunts forward-thinking brands and upcoming designers. The Next Door becomes a household name, collaborating with close to 60 brands.

In 2010, The Next Door expanded its reach via its website, opening up to Parisian and international customers. Four years later, The Next Door would go against the digital grain by opening a new store. On Avignon’s Place Crillon, the city’s first theatre – an 18th century building where Molière performed – hosts a unique contemporary fashion experience. This new store’s offer blends luxury and street culture, in line with the market trends, and brands such as Undercover, Sacaï, Comme des Garçons, Junya Watanabe, Marni, Nike, and Adidas quickly come onboard.

More information : MAN/WOMAN