Dubai Skyline | Source: ecopolis

Middle East Retail Returns to Growth Track (WWD)
“The retail pulse is back in the Middle East. Fashion brands point to positive trends in the region, including the return of tourists, particularly in Dubai. Wealthy Chinese are streaming in… shoring up a fast-growing destination for Europe’s luxury players even though business isn’t near pre-recession levels.”

Debenhams refinances, sees lower interest costs (Reuters)
“Britain’s No.2 department stores group, has completed a refinancing of its debts, signing a new 650 million pound ($997 million)agreement that will cut its interest bill… the deal comprised a 250 million pound term loan and a 400 million pound revolving credit facility.”

Luxury Retailers: Cautiously Shoptimistic (Brand Channel)
“Luxury retail in general took the hardest hit during this recession…Our customers pulled back dramatically from spending… that being said, we are very happy to see that business is coming back. The customer is definitely back in the stores.”

Britain’s regional tailors (FT)
“The pre-eminence of London’s Savile Row as the centre of tailoring expertise is well documented. Yet outside the capital there are tailors the length and breadth of Britain who cut, sew and fit to the same bespoke methods. Their numbers, however, are dwindling.”

What women want (Independent)
“A unique approach to women’s fashion: Whether they’re inspired by skyscrapers, schoolgirls or Joan Collins, London Fashion Week’s female designers have a unique approach to women’s wardrobes.”

LINK LOVE:BoF Daily Digest | Middle East back on track, Debenhams refinances, Luxe shoppers return, Off Savile Row, What women want

For Girls Who Wish They’d Been Sluts In High School…

This, according to American-born, London-based designer Natascha Stolle, is the subtle theme behind her label, which debuted in 2007. Stolle’s works are a cheeky blend of grown-up style and teenage sexuality, a quality that also lends itself to her latest S/S 09 collection.

In it, subdued neutrals are paired with vivid patterns, hues and textures, along with free-flowing shapes that offer a hint of structure. This includes billowy high-waisted trousers, pencil skirts and oversized tees and cardigans that are somewhat reminiscent of the 80’s but in a very good way. The outcome is a covetous compilation of pieces that are nostalgic and contemporary.