Ann Harvey brand makes a welcome comeback through Bonmarché

Larger ladies across the country were dismayed when their favourite upmarket womenswear brand, Ann Harvey, announced the closure of its stores, concessions and website over a year ago – though we were left with the promise that the brand would be relaunched, under new ownership, “sometime in 2014”.

Now, happily, Ann Harvey is finally back. Owned by the thriving Bonmarché chain, the brand made its comeback last week and is exclusively available through Bonmarché’s store and website. The new range embraces everything from bold plus-size dresses to elegant trousers, stylish jackets and pretty accessories, with more products being added to the collection all the time.

Focusing on sizes from 16-32, it’s clear that Ann Harvey’s sophisticated plus-size fashion lines have a very loyal fan base – and those fans have certainly been making their views on the new collection known via the Ann Harvey Facebook page. While it’s fair to say that not all the feedback is positive, it’s great that customers are so passionate about the brand – and that social media lets all of us share our feedback direct with retailers in a way that was never possible before. So, assuming the folks at Ann Harvey are paying attention to what customers are asking for – and they are, to their credit, replying to all their customers’ comments – expect to see more smart jackets, stylish suits and flattering long dresses making an appearance in coming seasons.

In the meantime, it’s some of the simplest pieces in the Ann Harvey collection that are our favourites. We like this elegant LBD in a luxurious french crepe jersey (£40), which oozes sophistication on its own or works well layered with a print cardigan for a more relaxed look. You could also try accessorising the ensemble with the collection’s pretty floral design necklace (£10).

Even better news is that if you order by Saturday 2 August you can get free standard UK delivery across Ann Harvey and Bonmarché. Just enter the code PNP14S as you checkout!

And whether you’re one of Ann Harvey’s many longstanding customers or someone discovering it for the first time, don’t forget to tell us below what you think of the brand’s relaunch – and what you’d love to see added to the range in the future.

All prices were correct on 31 July 2014.