Combining cutting-edge fashion with sought-after designer labels, Harvey Nichols Leeds is not an obvious destination for credit crunch shopping - unless, of course, you're looking for stylish clothes that will stand the test of time and still be in your wardrobe in years to come . . .

Prada classics like this hand-crafted bag (£575) and matching shoes (£450) are well worth the investment

We might want to be more careful with our money these days but that doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice our social lives or a spot of retail therapy. The spring/summer collections have arrived at Harvey Nichols Leeds and feature some amazing fashion statements alongside wardrobe staples that will traverse effortlessly into next season.

The main trend for this season has to be colour, which featured heavily in key designers’ catwalk shows. Vivid acid brights, including neon pink and cerulean blue in heavy blocks, sat alongside oversized prints. Bows, ruffles and florals have been incorporated and jewellery is big and bold. Necklines are brightly coloured and embellished, and sequins have an intricate, grown-up feel as the designers experiment with tonality. Distressed metallic materials offer a futuristic vibe, with swimwear and lingerie mirroring these key trends.

Statement jewellery, like this stunning Missoni necklace, is fabulous set against a simple dress

Structured, off-the-shoulder and asymmetrical dresses are big looks for the season, along with a more romantic ballerina style, all of which should be teamed with skyscraper heels or brightly coloured pumps.

“Age is certainly not a barrier to colour, and we have a fantastic offer this season,” comments Jill Adams, womenswear and personal shopping manager at Harvey Nichols Leeds. “In addition to the nude and metallic tones in the Donna Karan collection, we are seeing a lot of neon in footwear and nautical prints in collections such as Roberto Cavalli, Gucci and Stella McCartney.

“Donna Karan is effortlessly lux; dresses in soft jersey in warm, earthy tones with accents of vibrant pink are draped and knotted to create a perfect shape with little effort, whereas Prada is fabulously Italian with fifties overtones complemented by classic, timeless bags such as the highly covetable Degrade (pictured top). Matching your bag and shoes and investing in high-impact jewellery such as Missoni will create an eye-catching look which is very on trend.”

It’s not all about the brights, though; there are also some pretty pastels and creams that offer a softer alternative to black, although the little black dress is still evident.

Harvey Nichols Leeds also has an excellent selection of Dolce and Gabbana, a really strong collection this season, and Balenciaga, which is strong and directional, for the true fashionista.