French Connection Aubine Pleated Dress Overview
The French Connection Aubine pleated dress is a structured midi dress from the British brand French Connection. It features a front pleated panel, a V-neckline, and a fitted silhouette. The dress is made from a polyester blend and is available in colors such as black, navy, and burgundy. It is sold through the French Connection website and major retailers like ASOS and Nordstrom, with prices typically ranging from $100 to $150 USD. The brand, founded in 1972, is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FCCN.
French Connection reported annual revenue of approximately £215 million for the fiscal year ending in 2023, according to its latest annual filing. The Aubine pleated dress is part of the brand's core women's collection, which contributes the majority of its online sales. The dress is marketed as a versatile office-to-evening piece and is frequently featured in the brand's seasonal lookbooks. French Connection operates over 100 standalone stores globally, with the majority in the United Kingdom and the Middle East.
Style Details and Fit
Design and Fabric
The Aubine pleated dress has a knee-length to midi hem, long sleeves, and a buttoned front. The pleating is concentrated across the chest and waist, creating a textured, tailored look. The fabric is a lightweight polyester blend with a slight sheen, designed to hold its shape. The dress is machine washable according to the brand's care label instructions. French Connection states the dress is designed in London and produced in accordance with its ethical sourcing code.
Fit and Sizing
French Connection uses a standard UK sizing system for the Aubine dress, ranging from UK 8 to UK 22. The brand recommends checking the specific measurements for each size on its website, as the dress has a fitted bodice and a slightly A-line skirt. The waist is defined by the pleating, and the dress does not include a lining. Customer reviews on the French Connection site and third-party retailers note that the dress runs true to size, with some buyers suggesting sizing up for a looser fit through the hips.
Pricing, Availability, and Market Position
Retail Price and Discounts
The French Connection Aubine pleated dress is priced at £89 to £129 GBP at full price, which converts to roughly $110 to $165 USD depending on the retailer and exchange rate. The dress is frequently discounted during seasonal sales, with reductions of 30% to 50% common at outlets such as ASOS and the French Connection sale section. The brand also offers student discounts through platforms like Student Beans, which can reduce the price further. Price tracking tools show the dress rarely drops below £60 GBP during clearance events.
Where to Buy
The dress is available directly from the French Connection website, which offers standard and express shipping to the UK, US, and EU. It is also stocked by Nordstrom, ASOS, and Zalando, each of which provides its own return policy and shipping rates. French Connection's online store uses a secure checkout and offers payment via credit card, PayPal, and Klarna for installment plans. The brand's investor relations page confirms that online sales have grown as a percentage of total revenue, reflecting a shift toward digital retail channels.