High fashion comes to Liverpool

Westwood's creations are seen on catwalks across the world

Fashion designer Vivienne Westwood was in Liverpool on Thursday to put the finishing touches to her new shop in the city.

It will be the only store owned by an international designer in the city centre when it opens in Matthew Street on Friday.

The city currently has far fewer designer clothing stores than Manchester and is keen to attract the likes of Gucci and the Armani.

It is hoped Ms Westwood's shop will encourage other designers to move into the city.

Ms Westwood said she was surprised Liverpool had less fashion stores than its North West rival.

She said: "As far as I know Liverpool people are quite famous for liking clothes and liking fashion.

"They're very social people, lively people, and we know that they like clothes."