Did you know that Glasgow’s fashion heritage store, House of Fraser, was originally a drapery shop? Located on the prime corner of Argyle Street and Buchanan Street, Fraser’s – as it’s fondly referred to by the locals – was opened in 1849 by James Arthur and Sir Hugh Fraser. A huge success with a loyal customer base (the store employs almost 7000 staff and boasts annual sales of £1.2 billion), Fraser’s later became the launch pad for a national brand that now boasts 60 stores. Not only does the Glasgow store have a huge selection of top global brands, it regularly supports local up-and-coming designers. To celebrate Homecoming Scotland 2014, Fraser’s has teamed up with five established Scottish designers to host pop-up shops featuring products designed exclusively for the store.
The Bringing Scotland Home designers
The Bringing Fashion Home designers include fashion designer Rebecca Torres and the fabulous jeweller Georgia Wiseman (their first collaborative work, which includes t-shirts and sweaters with each of their signatures styles) and luxury handbag and accessory label Strathberry of Scotland (the salmon pink bag is to die for). Artisanal menswear brand ten30 is also involved and the label’s designer, Alan Moore is adding to his made-to-order gentlemen’s attire with a collectable t-shirt. Moore says of the project, “This is a fantastic opportunity and I’m delighted to be involved. The emphasis on heritage and homecoming Scotland is so relevant and important to me and the ten30 brand. It’s great to see House of Fraser embrace that.”
Alan Moore
One of my favourite pieces is the exclusive scarf by designer Karen Mabon, which maps out famous Glasgow landmarks such as Kelvingrove Park, the Duke of Wellington statue and even the Glasgow football teams. A well-considered and perfectly executed tribute to Glasgow, Mabon’s scarf is a great souvenir for anyone visiting the city this summer, whether for the upcoming Commonwealth Games or just as a city break.
Or if you just fancy a wee treat.
Karen Mabon and the celebratory Glasgow tribute scarf
Karen Mabon x House of Fraser scarf
Bringing Fashion Home designers will be available exclusively at Glasgow’s House of Fraser until 4th August.
