House of Fraser SS10 press day

In our opinion, House of Fraser is one of the UK’s top department stores for fashion. From designer brands to high street labels, House of Fraser has broad appeal, catering for all with younger brands like Therapy to house favourites such as Linea. Next season is set to bring us a number of label exclusives, so we couldn’t wait to pop down last week for a bit of breakfast and a sneaky peek…

Therapy has never really focussed on accessories. This season however, the label has developed, stretching its ideas to bright raffia and beaded clutches, bangles and studded belts. An ‘Alice in Wonderland’ theme is prominent consisting of cutesty heart print, nautical stripes and statement blazers with a youthful take on the sharp shoulder.

House of Fraser exclusive – Stefanel – stood out with its bright palette alongside the neutral tones that are popular for spring 2010. The cobalt blue silk jumpsuit looks like it walked right off the Stella McCartney runway while the multi-coloured floral print silk shorts are perfect for luxurious summer daytime wear. Florals were also seen in dark, graphic print at Kenneth Cole and in floaty, knee-length dresses at Ralph Lauren.

Nudes were evident everywhere, from Pied a Terre – in an almost Josh Goot, sophisticated summer pastel print, as well as asymmetrical drapery – to embellishment at Vera Moda and new brands like Almost Famous, who kept the look romantic with ruffles and lace. Lipsy also surprised us with a gorgeous, grecian halter dress in dusky pink.

Episode focussed on monochrome for next season, keeping things smart with crisp A-line skirts, perfect for contemporary workwear.

The real treat however, came in the shape of the handbags. House of Fraser have a wide selection of neutral delights from the Mischa Barton range, to classic, miniature pieces like the Moschino chain bag and – our favourite – the brown mock-croc Badgley Mischka.

Reliable black numbers came in the shape of the exclusive Lulu Guinness tote, a black fringed hobo from Full Circle and the statement studded beauty from Anya Hindmarch.

But, it also wouldn’t be summer without a few beach brights now, would it? Take a look at these two from Anya Hindmarch and DKNY.