Since its humble origins in the sixties as a mail order fashion company, Biba has grown into a massive success.
The polish-born due, Barbara Hulanickie and husband Stephen Fitz-Simon, opened their first store in Kensington in 1964 and went in to London department store Derry and Toms ten years later. The store fit its art-deco style, which can still be seen in Biba’s logo. Initially billed as stylish clothes for young girls, the brand quickly became sophisticated and more expensive.
Over the years, Biba has been bought and sold by Dorothy Perkins and Dennis Day, relaunched by various designers such as Monica Zipper and Bella Freud but Barbara Hulanickie was never involved. House of Fraser bought the company in 2009 and this year they are celebrating 50 years of the iconic brand with its Biba Gold collection.
The Gold Collection echoes the vintage rock and roll appeal from its origins, with the use of leather, beading and tassels and is the perfect timeless capsule wardrobe. The six limited edition pieces are available now in store and online at House of Fraser.
Embellished Dress, £250
Leather Tie Waist Dress, £250
Beaded and Tassel Dress, £250
Leather Embellish Zip Top, £149
Leather Embellished Zip Skirt, £189
Shearling Jacket, £649
By Emily Parker
http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/
