I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a good feeling about 2012. Don’t get me wrong, 2011 was brilliant, however when you’ve experienced dreary weather for the past couple of months you look to the future with a somewhat fresh anticipation.

As the January sales come to an end, the retail world welcomes breezy summer designs that are destined to brighten up the high street… so with the upcoming summer months in mind, I hopped on a train and headed to Birmingham for the Interiors UK Trade Show at the NEC.

It’s always exciting to see what’s to be expected for Spring Summer 2012. After staying in, cuddled up on the sofa throughout the icy climes, it’s nice to think about vivid summer colours, quintessentially British garden parties, and seasonal ways to update your abode.

Whilst strolling through the endless stands and product demonstrations within the exhibition centre, there were a few trends that certainly stood out.

SUMMER BRIGHTS

Bold and beautiful colour is always a key story for the warmer months, and 2012 is set to be no different. From rich chartreuse to fluorescent florals, lively shades dressed a host of home accessories. Plush cushions and various home accessories were transformed for SS12 in tropical pinks, electric blues and regal purples.

CANINE COUNTERPARTS

I’m very much a ‘dog person’, so it was great to see a little pup on practically every homeware stand. French bulldogs, dachshunds, greyhounds and pugs (who could forget that fashion favourite?!) appeared on an array of homeware pieces for a contemporary but cute look. My particular favourites had to be the sausage dog chairs (see below) and some Winston Churchill-inspired bulldog cushions that I was unable capture on film *weep*

GO RETRO

Let’s face it, you either love or hate retro homeware. Those that adore contemporary clean lines and minimalist chrome will grimace at the thought of designs inspired by a bygone era – so I recommend you look away now. Whether its sixties bubble chairs or atom-esque coat hooks, I love it all. It’s no surprise that this theme made me smile, and there were a few style spots that I just had to share…

TOP TIP: SWAP YOUR MODERN HOUSE PHONE FOR A CLASSIC DESIGN FROM THE GOOD OL’ DAYS – FORGET ABOUT PRACTICALITY AND FOCUS ON STYLE THIS SEASON.

STATEMENT GLAMOUR

Lavish gold mirrors, gleaming metallic finishes and over-the-top accents were everywhere at Interiors UK, a theme that’s a must for those with a ‘more is more’ approach to interior design. There were no magnolia walls insight, with the majority of brands opting for in-your-face visuals and accessories on a grander scale. Looking for an understated wall clock? Forget it. If this event was anything to go by, then a large silver grandfather clock is much more fitting.

HOME SWEET HOME

Vintage white finishes are popular in many households nowadays, and this story looks set to stick around for the next few seasons. Feminine French details and gently washed wood were a key focus in many of the collections I viewed, with large wardrobes and oversized chests designed in this clean, crisp style – pieces that would certainly brighten up rooms with less light.

DUST & RUST

For those that despise chintz and prefer their homeware to be a little more industrial, this theme is sure to please. ‘Gasoline’-emblazoned wall art, aging clock faces and items with plenty of wear and tear were made centre pieces in many displays in the exhibition hall. Worn, salvaged wood made wonderful dining tables, whilst chunky vegetable crates and potato sacks were reworked into useful storage and soft furnishings.

WEIRD BUT WONDERFUL

Quirky? No. Eccentric? Definitely not, but regardless of my personality, I still managed to seek out a few gems that couldn’t be ignored. Whether you love them or hate them, you have to admit these are certainly something…

My day ended with a lovely couple of hours watching upcoming homeware designers pitch their ideas to our panel of Mary Portas experts – Peter Cross, Mary Portas’ business partner, Roderick Williams, House of Fraser Homeware Director and Alex Dimitriu, House of Fraser Director of Buying (Womenswear). The winning designs will appear alongside the Mary Portas & House of Fraser collection.

Here are a few of my favourites…

Tina Crawford and her hand-sewn dolls – look there’s Mary…

Camila Prada and her bone china tableware…

Tara Willis and her ‘Helpful Hankies’…

Lianne Mellor and her tea party set, Denise Rawls and her greetings cards, and Louise Tiler and her beautiful wallpaper.

HoF HITS BRUM: INTERIORS UK AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

It’s our favourite time of year (other than Christmas) !! SALE! If you’ve had enough of the family, can’t bear to think about turkey and didn’t quite get everything you wanted have a sneak peek at some of our top sale picks and start spending your Christmas vouchers…

Picks for the girls

Mary Portas Utility shirt was £105 now £63

Karen Millen satin shift dress was £175 now £120

Planet Pea coat was £179 now £99

J’adore Dior gift set was £98 now £68.60

Biba lip palette was £24 now £19.20

Clarins Gorgeous Getaways was £44 now £30.80

Picks for the guys

G-Star denim shirt was £105 now £78.75

Jaeger merino jumper was £115 now £65

Mango jeans was £49.90 now £34.90

Picks for the pad

Cuisinart coffee machine was £150 now £75

Linea crystal glassware from £7

Panasonic 3D TV was £1099.99 now £749.99

Picks for the little ones

Uttam girls dress was £29.99 now £14.99

Timberland puffa jacket was £85 now £51

Little Joules t shirt was £29.95 now £20.96

Looking for something else? shop the rest of the House of Fraser sale.

Our top sale picks is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Are you a homeware designer, waiting for that big break?

Following on from the success of the new Mary & House of Fraser shop, the House of Fraser team are searching for up-and-coming homeware designers to pitch their ideas to an expert panel at the Interiors UK trade show in January 2012.

If you’d like to apply, simply fill out the form here by the 6^th January. Successful applicants who pitch will get the chance to see their ideas put in to production and either sold as a product or displayed as part of the Mary & House of Fraser shop – a concept store designed around Mary’s creative vision.

To ensure the shop continues to push creative boundaries, the Mary & House of Fraser team are looking for product and furniture designers who have an innovative idea for an item to sell or for the shop-fit itself. Winning designs would potentially sit alongside the fashion, gift, home and food collection aimed at ‘grown-up women’ which launched in August 2011.

Sitting on the expert panel at Interiors UK will be Peter Cross, Mary Portas’ business partner, Roderick Williams, House of Fraser Homeware Director and Alex Dimitriu, House of Fraser Director of Buying (Womenswear).

P.S. If you’re still searching for the perfect Christmas present, why not treat her to a Mary Portas Styling Experience. This includes £150 to spend in the Mary & House of Fraser Shop, your very own personal stylist, and a complimentary glass of delicious Pommery champagne. For more details ask in-store.

Calling all homeware designers: Enter our mary portas competition is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

You may have already heard the buzz, but we just thought we’d let you in on something exciting that’s happening in the New Year.

Launching in February 2012, Michelle Mason will be introducing her very own interiors collection to House of Fraser, entitled Linea by Michelle Mason.  

Renowned for her strong illustrative style and use of playful prints, Michelle creates interior and giftware that has appeared in Elle Decoration, Living Etc and the Sunday Times, to name but a few.

The upcoming collection sees quirky cupcakes, sweet Scotty dogs and iconicLondonbuses appear on all your homeware essentials, including mugs, cushions, containers and plates.

Keep your eyes peeled for updates on this exciting new collection, exclusive to House of Fraser.

Coming Soon: Linea by Michelle Mason is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

I don’t know about you, but when the temperature drops I love nothing more than relaxing in a soothing tub of bubbles or snuggling under the duvet.

So, this winter stay warm and dry with our stylish selection of bed and bath linen – all with an irresistible saving.

There’s currently 30% off selected designs, including styles by Christy, Casa Couture, Cath Kidston and Linea.

I’ve selected a few of my favourites below, but there’s something to suit every colour scheme in our ever-increasing array.

Top tip: Stock up on fresh linen and towels for when the family come to stay this Christmas.

Click here to view Bed Linen.

Click here to view Bath Linen.

Save on Bed and Bath Linen is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

As the nights draw in and we gain an extra hour, it seems now is the perfect time to ensure our homes are ultra-cosy.

I love nothing more than staying in with a warming cuppa and my beloved TV when the temperature drops – a sumptuous throw is also a welcome companion on cold winter nights.

Here are a few cosy homeware essentials that will ensure you stay snug this season…

A Majestic Mattress

Make the most of the extra hour in bed with our irresistible offer. From Thursday 27^th October to Sunday 30^th October enjoy our selection of king size mattresses for double mattress prices. Treat yourself to a little extra space while you slumber – click here.

Plush Cushions

Cuddle up to one of these beauties throughout the big chill.

Fabulous Throws

Add extra warmth when the evenings are extra icy.

Timeless Timepiece

Be reminded of your extra hour in style.

Get Cosy this Season is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

House of Fraser has returned to Aberdeen with an exciting new concept store, located in Union Square

House of Fraser.com has been created for you to come in, relax and shop online using one of our stylish and sophisticated terminals in the centre of Aberdeen.

You can also take advantage of our Buy & Collect service – simply order from the comfort of your own home, and have your items delivered for collection the next day*.

*Order before 5pm in store for next day collection.

We’ve got all your fashion, home and beauty cravings covered and with an amazing 1000 brands available online, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Choose from our incredible range of Womenswear including Jaeger, Pied A Terre and Paul’s Boutique. Plus, we’ve got the exciting new Mary Portas collection and the iconic Biba collection, both exclusively available at House of Fraser.

Why not indulge yourself with one of thousands of beauty and skincare products from our top brands including Shisedo, Chanel and Estee Lauder.

Men needn’t feel left out either, with a whole host of brands to choose from including Polo Ralph Lauren, G Star and Barbour. There’s also our exclusive brands including Kenneth Cole New York and Howick Tailored, designed to cover all your tailoring needs.

You can also update the little one’s wardrobes by choosing from our top Kids brands including Name It, DKNY and Hugo Boss, or make their dreams come true with a wide selection of toys including Barbie, Polly Pocket and Thomas The Tank Engine.

Give your home a stylish makeover with some fantastic furniture and accessories from Shabby Chic or Kenneth Cole Home, both exclusively available from House of Fraser, or update your kitchen with Le Creuset, Bodum or Tefal.

Getting married? Use our Wedding List service, which will help you find every gift from the practical and innovative to the luxurious and indulgent. Our service to you is led by our dedicated Concierge team, making our contribution to your special day. Plus, once you have opened your Wedding List at House of Fraser, there are treats in store for all members of the wedding party!

Make sure you’re there on the 21st October when all will be revealed!

Revealed: Our New Aberdeen Store is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

If you’re searching for a feminine way to transform your home, delicate pink accessories offer a stylish solution.

Pink isn’t just for the ultra-girly. It creates a warm, tranquil feel and exudes an ethereal simplicity that will surpass the seasons.

From washed blush hues to antique rose, this pretty palette looks fabulous in any room… and here are a few of my favourite pink pieces.

Cath Kidston is renowned for its signature florals and contemporary kitsch, however I think this look is much more effective in small doses. Update a traditional sofa with a couple of Provence Rose cushions – this will give your tired settee a new lease of life, plus you can always update the cushions when you redecorate.

Luxurious bed linen will make your bedroom into a beautiful boudoir. Try Christy’s lavish patterned style – adding a throw for extra indulgence. To complete the look, dress your bedside table with Lombok’s stylish candle holder; the Moroccan rose tea lights from Linea make the perfect accompaniment.

Remember, pretty pink hues work in any room – even the bathroom or kitchen – and will add a pop of colour to more understated living spaces. I love Shabby Chic’s vintage-inspired prints, while Linea’s eye-catching dinnerware will make mealtimes extra special.

To view our latest pink homeware, click here.

Powder Pink: Unashamedly Elegant Interiors is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

As we wave goodbye to the hot weather, there’s no need to frown – autumn is officially here, and what better way to celebrate than with a couple of on-trend updates for your home…

Autumn has always been my favourite time of year; it evokes memories of conker fights, fiery leaves and scrumptious stodge. This season there are plenty of ways to update your home, from plush cushions to beautiful bed linen, and I’ve selected a few must-haves for you to enjoy when the mercury drops.

A rich berry red will add warmth to any room, and a few pieces in this on-trend hue will give your home a boost of colour.

Accessorise with vintage-inspired leather and a few lavish details to create a space you won’t want to leave.

Get the fire blazing, warm the mulled wine and snuggle up on the sofa… autumn has arrived.

New Season Interiors: Falling for Fall… is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

At 9.30 am this morning, House of Fraser flung open its doors to welcome grown up, style conscious women to Mary Portas’ very own shop within a shop. We couldn’t wait to get down there to find out all about it…

Forget everything you know about shopping. Mary Portas has been sent from the gods to iron out every wrinkle of frustration women face when they hit the high street. She was on hand today to talk customers through her vision — It’s all about experience, service and fabulous pieces to make dressing an absolute breeze, as her manifesto explains.

Absolutely everything has been considered. From the express orange lift taking you straight to the action, to bell-boys that fetch sizes, it’s all there. Stylists have been trained within an inch of their lives and there’s even a barista brewing an exclusive blend of coffee (because as Mary points out, we reach a stage when below par isn’t good enough).

Shoe Wall

Mary’s Lift

Coffee Time

The revolutionary fitting rooms are designed with real life in mind, complete with adjustable lighting (office, home, even ‘Paris at dawn’!), a chair, a pull out mirror to view yourself at any angle (vital!) and knowledgeable stylists ready to help. Browse through the look book on state of the art iPads and if you want to, book a VIP one-on-one appointment.

Mood Lighting

Lifestyle

Mary Portas

The only thing we’re sure you won’t want to use is the ‘moan phone’, installed by Mary so that you may air any suggestions directly to her team.

Visit the Mary Portas and House of Fraser shop online and in our Oxford St store today.

See the online collection.

Mary Portas: A Collection for Women by Women is a post from: House of Fraser Blog