The 20s are back on our radar as a swinging take on the stylish era sashayed off the SS12 runway and is headed straight for our wardrobes.

Inspiration: Think soft draped silks, blush hues, drop waists, and sequins and channel Clara Bow and Louise Brooks to really get this trend right. For a modern take on the vintage theme, make Rooney Mara your poster girl.

Rooney Mara

Catwalk: Runway shows championing the trend included Gucci, Etro, Ralph Lauren and Sonya Rykiel

Hero piece: Biba’s beautiful beaded dress is the jewel in the crown. Snap one up today to be ahead of the game.

Biba Dress

For more inspiration and great pieces , shop our Great Gatsby trend edit where you’ll find wedding perfect outfuts, pretty pastels and more

Dune Shoes

Kath Kidston Earrings

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Dress

Will you be wearing the Great Gatsby trend?

Trend Report: Great Gatsby is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

This season is all about bold, statement knitwear —think Christmas jumper and you can’t go far wrong. Top of the knit picks is Fairisle, a heritage style that suits everybody, from the traditionalist to the modern style maven.

Classically Casual

For lovers of classic style these knit picks tick boxes…

 For him, these Barbour and Howick jumpers are perfect for horizontal patterns while introducing some colour. For her, this Dickins & Jones jumper adds a touch of burnt red while the CC sweater proves grey can be fun.

Modern Update

A modern cut and cool touches bring this look up to date…

 For him, this Peter Werth cardigan mixes blues for a frosty approach while the Howick cardigan criss-crosses red and navy over grey for a bolder look. For her, this Linea Weekend wrap is amazing for keeping warm on those winter nights and these Therapy mittens are fun and quirky to liven up your outerwear.

Little Knits

This trend works for the whole family so you can stock up on stylish knits for the children too…

 Esprit has opted to create a girly pink fairisle pattern with this knitted dress and pom pom hat for the girls, and Benetton has created a gorgeous navy cardigan for the boys. Perfect for layering up when they’re playing in the snow!

Shop menswear here.

Shop womenswear here.

Shop kidswear here.

Knit Picking: Fairisle is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

So, London Fashion Week is well underway and into the fourth day. We donned our wedge heels and braved the cobbles of Somerset house to find out what the designers are dictating for Spring Summer 2012. Here’s what we’ve found out so far…

Friday

On Friday Christopher Raeburn unveiled his Parka heavy collection (it’s THE coat of the season) in an interactive light and sound filled room. Everyday people rather than standard issue leggy models showcased his looks and the non-traditional approach went down a storm.

Sass & Bide models sashayed down the runway all bold eyebrows and sleek, modern make up in a collection boasting structured origami style mini dresses, Aztec sequinned skirts and fluro plastic necklaces — just gorgeous.

Fashion frontrunners PPQ appeared to take inspiration from the old masters, channelling a distinct ’80s Versace vibe. There were flashes of Chanel reworked in pastel, double denim ensembles embroidered and appliquéd with gold keys and incredible tights by Bebaroque.

Saturday

Jaeger kicked of their show to the dreamy theme music from True Romance. That seemed apt as the collection was full to the brim with feminine sheer printed blouses, A-line skirts, cropped jackets and scalloped trims. Everything was grown up and polished (models were sporting sleek side pony tails) in a palette of navy, mustard and cream. Olivia Palermo, Pixi Lott and Lara Bailey were all spotted on the F’row.

House of Holland didn’t disappoint and snakeskin and tartan were the order of the day. Leopard print went large and less obvious — a great new season reworking of the seemingly omnipresent trend. Heavy black eyeliner is back too, according to Henry.

Always a popular show, Issa drew an especially large crowd (something to do with a Middleton we expect) and dazzled with a glamorous ‘70s inspired collection set to a wonderful ‘Girl from Ipanema’ soundtrack. Swimsuits were slashed to the naval, fringed shift, floor length kaftans and loose tumbling curls all featured as well as a carnival queen finale, complete with feather headdress.

Ashish was a riot of Van Gogh sunflowers back to zebra print and breton stripes. Poppies and patterns adorned everything and sequins were definitely the order of the day. Models stomped down the runway with wild flowers stuffed into their DM boots and sweet straw hats atop their heads.

Stay tuned for the best of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday and check our Facebook page for pictures…

London Fashion Week Round Up. The Story So Far… is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Calling all Biba fans… it’s been a year since Biba re-launched at House of Fraser, and to celebrate, we’re offering you an irresistible 20% off the entire womenswear collection.

Whether you prefer the rich caramels of autumn’s ‘70s theme or the brand’s unashamedly kitsch prints, there’s something to suit all styles in Biba’s iconic range of women’s clothing.

All you have to do is print off your voucher and take it to your nearest House of Fraser store, or you can enjoy 20% off online by entering BIBA20 at the checkout*.

I’ve got my eye on this eye-catching striped number – the perfect way to brighten up dull winter days!

Download your voucher here.

To view the Biba collection, click here.

Valid on Thursday 8th September only*

20% OFF BIBA – CELEBRATE BIBA’S ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY ON THURSDAY SEPT 8th 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

 Be sure to pick up a copy of the Saturday Telegraph magazine today featuring Mary Portas talking about her new collection - launching exclusively with House of Fraser very soon.

A collection for women by Mary Portas is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Searching for an edgy way to update your look? Well ladies, snakeskin is here to become your seasonal style savoir.

I will happily admit that I’m not a massive lover of patterns. You might discover the odd floral or two in my wardrobe, however it tends to be classic neutrals or bold block colours that really get me going.

Snakeskin is not only endlessly chic, but also ultra easy to wear – a must for those seeking a trend that will surpass the seasons.

FOR YOUR WARDROBE

An eye-catching printed cardigan looks fabulous over an understated LBD, while Vero Moda’s fluid skirt is the perfect partner to simple jersey staples. Making a entrance? Choose a dress in this statement pattern for style that will work for the office and for evening – simply team with a sharp tailored jacket when you require a little more coverage.

FINISH YOUR LOOK

Whether it’s a slouchy tote for everyday or a super-sleek clutch, snakeskin has been infused into an array of accessories this season, so take your pick. I love this oversized shopper by Warehouse – it’s the perfect size for all my essentials and looks great dressed up or down.

Sizzle in Snakeskin is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

I love to liven up my wardrobe with bold and beautiful colour, especially when my skin becomes a little more sun kissed. Why not browse our colour wheel for style inspiration this summer? Just click here to check it out, or read on for my favourite looks…

Ravishing Red

A vibrant shade of red is guaranteed to turn heads and is a must for those seeking a little day to evening drama. From deep berry to sizzling scarlet, red is big news and offers style to suit all skin tones. I’ll be wearing Motel’s bright shorts with clean-cut white and nautical-inspired stripes.

True Blue

This ultra-icy hue looks fabulous against summer’s bronzed skin; floor-sweeping maxi dresses and elegant all-in-ones are drenched in aqua, cobalt and regal navy to create dramatic seasonal silhouettes. Anoushka G’s dramatic gown offers an easy way to work this cool colour palette.  

Bright Spark

Beautiful brights continue to be popular this season, with zesty shades appearing centre stage; thirst-quenching lemon appears alongside loud and proud orange in a fruity and fabulous colour palette. Try Jaeger’s apple-coloured silk camisole for a bold alternative to your classic wardrobe staple.

Nice and Neutral

There’s no need to fret over colour if neutrals are more your style. An essential in any wardrobe, these are the shades that you can always rely on. I love Biba’s pretty embroidered waistcoat with a classic cami and comfy denim on more relaxed days.

Fall for Colour this Summer is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

As a child I was dragged around antique shops by my parents, an experience that has led me to develop a passion for quirky vintage pieces and a love of all things kitsch.

It’s always nice to see new collections that are inspired by a bygone era, and this season is no different. Forget the ultra-modern this summer, and instead opt for vintage-inspired designs for you and your home.

For Her

Fitted florals, feminine heels and feline sunglasses are the sophisticated way to work this story.

For Him

Nothing says retro like classic Fred Perry – stick to the brand’s iconic check for effortless style.

For the Makeup Bag

Add a little liner and a slick of cherry lipstick for a beauty look that’d make Marilyn proud.

For the Home

A few carefully-selected retro pieces will give any living space a new lease of life.

Inspired by Yesteryear is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Ultra-cool and fuss-free, clean bright white is the ideal hue for those seeking contemporary sophistication this summer. Whether you’re looking to update your home or simply desire a little white in your wardrobe, this season’s must-have shade adorns an array of items for a perfectly pure finishing touch…

Ethereal with an edgy twist, white makeup is an easy way to work this on-trend colour. A light dusting of pale shimmering eye shadow will make eyes pop while a designer compact will add a fashion-forward accent to your makeup bag; try Sisley or Clinique’s selection of sumptuous shadows.

Next up, clothing. Ladies, white is the perfect shade for the warmer climes and will keep you cool and collected in the hazy summer heat. LK Bennett is renowned for its timeless dresses, and this clean white style works for the office, day and evening. Coast’s beautifully draped top is a chic accompaniment to classic denim – or try Levi’s skinny jeans to wear the hue from head to toe. Finish with a few white accessories.

Boys, this simple shade is a suitcase essential. A basic white tee works beyond the summer season – layer under a patterned shirt on cooler days – and is a faithful staple you’ll wear endlessly. Team with Ralph Lauren’s bright white shorts for a clean-cut holiday look, adding versatile leather flip flops for casual at its best.

White might not be the most practical of shades (beware chocolate and red wine), however it is an effortless way of brightening up your home. A few simple touches will refresh any room; sleek dinnerware, lighting, comfortable cushions and luxe hotel-style bed linen will transform your living space into a minimalist dream. Swap a classic champagne flute for Linea’s dramatic Olga glasses – a must for the ultra-modern table setting, or make a statement with a chic settee. Linea’s Harry sofa blends soft leather with a ‘50s-inspired shape.

So Fresh, So Clean: Breezy White Essentials is a post from: House of Fraser Blog