CRISP cotton, pretty dresses and feminine masculinity ... it's going to be an easy, breezy move into spring at House of Fraser.

The store's new collection is all about clean, modern elegance, taking in everything from voluminous pussy bow blouses to refined 1940s inspired coats.

Last year's androgynous feel has been reinterpreted for spring, with boyfriend-inspired pieces a key silhouette.

Wide-legged slouchy trousers worn with formal pinstripe shirts and oversized cardigans have a classic menswear feel, but add a pussy-bow collar for a more ladylike touch.

The dress is still a big deal this year, and there are so many styles and shapes to choose from. Simple, but effortlessly chic is the tunic shape, so snap up the bold poppy red Linea dress - you'll wear it all summer.

Another theme to be found on the rails is a contemporary take on the 1940s army girl, with sexy shirt and tea dresses and high-waisted trousers.

Summer coats are back in a big way, with all the major designers including Prada, YSL and Donna Karan featuring lightweight, dressy styles in their summer collections.

And for the long of limb, shorts return for another sizzling summer ... even tinier than before. NAVY cap sleeve shirt dress £35; brown suede eyelet belt £20 RED silk shift dress £80; black velvet capris £16 GREY stripe short sleeve shirt £80; grey long sleeve knit cardigan with brooch £115; cream wide leg silk/linen mix trousers £75.