House of Fraser AW16 Home Collection

Today was a London day. I head south every so often to the big smoke to attend PR events LTID has been invited along to. Heading into London this morning after a rather early 4.15am start, the sun was shining and London seemed to have a skip-in-the-air kind of vibe.

The event was the launch of department store giant, House of Fraser’s Autumn Winter Home Collection 2016. Fittingly it was a grandiose affair, held in old converted church at One Marylebone opposite Great Portland Street tube station.

House of Fraser, a household name for Brits alike since 1847 has stores all over the UK. I was intrigued to find out what a ‘quintessential’ UK brand like HOF would put on show for us. The beautiful venue has been styled with different areas, where attendees could mingle through one area to another.

Coffee, canapes, juice bar, blow dry bar and screen printing, all added to the fun of the event as HOF made all guests feel comfortable and happy, while browsing their forthcoming ranges.

So what did I spy and what caught my eye?

Expect comfort and casual this Aumtun Winter 16. The bold colours I saw a lot of were; orange, deep blue, tomato red and mustard. At the gentle end of the spectrum were baby blues, light pinks (pantene colours of the year) light grey, cream and gentle lilac green. Rustic chic with tribal prints, wicker baskets, patterned rugs and beds layered deep in blankets and cushions. A lovely trend (which I adore and has been around couple for seasons now) showed through – blankets with pom pom edging, created a layered and playful look draped over benches and bed ends.

The different areas were styled using ceramic pots and vases, photo frames, candles (burning), faux fur rugs, some old vintage pieces such as trunks and wooden benches. The whole vibe oozed an organic, relaxed environment into which the the colder seasons will emerge.

I do love how the bigger brands are very mindful that today peoples lives are over complicated. The overall feel of House of Fraser’s AW2016 collection is simple and comfortable. Their clients can go home, shut the door on the busy world and enjoy their own simple, cosy, rustic and happy home designed by a department store who is moving with the times.

House of Fraser SHOP here.