Growing up, Benetton was somewhere people went for brightly-coloured sweaters, but as I got older I kind of dismissed it as a fashion destination.  However, it looks like I should go and give them a second chance, as the Benetton flagship store at Oxford Circus is due to relaunch this afternoon with a makeover and a whole load of fun and games for shoppers to participate in.

If you’re over 15, you can be dressed by the stylists and pose for a Benetton ad-style shoot which will then be featured on Benetton’s website and Facebook page.  There will also be the opportunity to meet the two UK winners of Benetton’s ‘It’s My Time’ competition, where ordinary people were given the chance to star in a Benetton campaign shot by the legendary Josh Olins – I say ordinary, but they all look like models to me!

If that’s not enough, you can shop exclusive promotions on must-haves whilst enjoying aperitifs and an in-store DJ AND the first 300 customers will receive a special goodie bag with their purchase – now if that’s not a reason to be forming an orderly queue, we don’t know what is …

Whilst I’m sure the brightly-coloured sweaters will be in there somewhere, there are some seriously hot pieces floating around in the autumn/winter lookbook and ad campaigns – I am particularly coveting the suede mid-heel hiking boots, which are surely the perfect everyday stomping-around-town shoe for people like me with an allergy to flats.  There are also some fabulous leather pieces, tailoring, prints, accessories and some super-cute Fairisle-type knits which are perfect for the snow-bunny look as seen on the D&G catwalk.  Looks like it’s definitely time to give Benetton another chance!

The official re-launch event is open from 4pm to 8pm today at the Oxford Circus Benetton store.  Enjoy!

Benetton, 255/259 Oxford Street, London W1B 2ER