Harrods reveals two new womenswear rooms in its historic redevelopment journey
Harrods is delighted to introduce two opulent havens on the first floor of its iconic Knightsbridge emporium: ‘Holiday & Swim’ and ‘Evening & Occasion’ mark the second phase of the eagerly awaited Womenswear redevelopment project.
Spanning nearly 10,000 sq. ft., these spaces are dedicated to pivotal moments in a client’s social calendar—a sun-soaked escape to warmer climes and an elegant soirée. ‘Evening & Occasion’ hosts 38 of the world’s most celebrated evening and party wear brands, offering daring party pieces alongside traditional and sophisticated gowns. Meanwhile, in ‘Holiday & Swim,’ customers can explore year-round holiday options, from seasonal swimsuit refreshes to head-to-toe holiday wardrobes.
Since 2021, Harrods has witnessed a 50% growth in its evening category. To enhance the experience, the expanded 5,145 sq. ft. space boasts four extra-large fitting rooms designed for comfort, as well as deluxe VIP lounges for a private and luxurious shopping experience. The physical expansion is complemented by an expanded offering, featuring six new brands, including the elegant Koltson, Australian favorite Alex Perry, Greek couture house Celia Kritharioti, and accessories brand Rodo.
Harrods Tailors now have a full-time tailor on-site in the fitting rooms to ensure the perfect fit for even the most intricate refinements, making each item appear tailor-made. ‘Evening & Occasion’ showcases 29 globally exclusive pieces from 11 brands, offering a rare and unique curation. The focus on finishing touches includes iconic evening accessories brands like Jefferey Levinson and Judith Leiber, ensuring a clutch for every occasion.
Simon Longland, Buying Director–Fashion at Harrods commented: “Opening the ‘Holiday & Swim’ and ‘Evening & Occasion’ rooms this week has come at the perfect time for our clients, as it so simply answers to those customers who have a full party-season social calendar, those that are counting the days to a winter-sun getaway–or both! It’s been a pleasure to work so closely with such a diverse portfolio of luxury brands both new and existing to Harrods,to deliver a curation of global exclusive and highly sought-afterpieces that are the epitome of style, elegance and individuality, and I am confident that our customers will see this come through on the shop floor. I’m passionate about creating the ultimate shopping experience for our clients, who have come to expect not only the best in service and offering but also in surroundings. Ensuring that from the moment customers step into these spaces they are transported into a luxurious universe where every detail has been considered is crucial, from the layout of the spaces to the details in the fitting rooms”.
The ‘Holiday & Swim’ room, spanning 4,758 sq. ft., complements the adjacent ‘Lingerie & Lounge’ space, providing a seamless and exceptional retail environment. With six spacious fitting rooms and two super-sized fitting rooms, customers can enjoy comfort and ease while exploring holiday dressing options. Permanent shopfits for anchor brands Missoni, Zimmerman, Eres, and Anya Hindmarch, along with long-term pop-ups like Pucci and Le Double J, enhance the variety.
Harrods’ commitment to a year-round holiday offering is reflected in the ‘Holiday & Swim’ room, catering to every moment of a holiday, from beach to bar. The focus extends to functional and supportive swimwear, exemplified by the new brand Form and Fold. The space also features iconic evening accessories, including jewelry from Alexis Bittar, Rodo bags, and Eliurpi hats, offering a one-stop destination for a complete holiday wardrobe.
Lewis Taylor, Design Director at David Collins Studio, provides insights into the distinctive design elements of the ‘Occasion’ and ‘Holiday’ rooms. The former exudes glamour and sophistication with undulating velvet walls, polished metalwork fixtures, and high gloss lacquer display tables. In contrast, the latter maintains continuity with the signature striped marble floors, illuminated textured glass signage, and marble portals, incorporating natural materials and pops of color to evoke a sense of understated luxury.
The harmonious design throughout the women’s wear department reflects David Collins Studio’s commitment to creating a luxurious and residential feel, ensuring every detail contributes to a captivating shopping experience.
