Ask any UK celebrity or musician where the biggest market lies and they will usually tell you its across the water in the United States.

Now the British retail industry is looking west in an effort to battle its way back from the recession, with the US fashion market providing a valuable outlet for many retailers.

High street chain All Saints this week announced that their flagship shop on Broadway in New York raked in over $1 million (£680,000) in its first week of opening. Elsewhere, the trendy street-wear brand Superdry and modernist outfitter Jack Wills have both experienced recent US success, with customers keen for a new look that move away from the stale home-grown American clothing brands.

With so many British retailers still reeling from the economic downturn and slow pace of recovery, the US is now looming as a crucial battleground for UK fashion success. The popularity of upstart British clothing labels has been widespread, as they do not follow catwalk trends blindly. Jack Wills, which features a range of grown-up school-like clothing and university wear, is one such label that stands out for its individuality. The group has launched two stores already, including one in the well-heeled holiday destination of Martha’s Vineyard, and is anticipating a 2010 full year turnover in excess of £60 million.

Likened to a British version of Abercrombie & Fitch, fashion analysts are watching developments keenly. The world’s largest consumer market has always attracted UK retailers but few have historically had any success. In 1988, leading British company Marks & Spencer sought to enter the US market with clothing store Brooks Brothers. However, this was later sold at a loss in 2001.