John Lewis has reported that online fashion sales have performed ahead of expectations since the launch of the revamped clothing site last month.

John Lewis Direct managing director Robin Terrell said that the group had aimed to generate £8.5m of extra revenue from the relaunched fashion website in the half year to January. However, it is now expected to hit its target in early December.

“The results we have seen have blown us away,” Terrell told the Financial Times.

Sales of clothing online are three times higher than last year, according to Terrell. Womenswear online sales were five times higher than a year ago.

Terrell attributed the majority of this growth to the revamped site and not soft comps from last year.

Brands including Paul & Joe Sister, Tara Jarmon and Rene Derhy were selling well, Terrell added.

Rival retailers including Tesco and Marks & Spencer have also recently revamped their clothing websites.

Meanwhile, John Lewis reported that the first day’s trading at its John Lewis at Home store saw over 9,000 shoppers come through its doors. The store, which opened on Thursday in Poole, spans 40,000sq ft and houses John Lewis’ electrical, home and home technology assortments as well as a gift list service.

Strong sellers included 40 inch Sony TVs and gift food and Christmas decorations.