Until very recently, Debenhams hadn't been at the top of my priority list when it came to shopping the high street, but it was its recent collaboration with London's new design talent Richard Quinn that suddenly put the department store on my radar. The collection—primarily made up of showstopping printed frocks—quickly became my gateway to all things Debenhams, and I've enjoyed reacquainting myself with the lesser-known brands of this British institution.
Katherine Ormerod wearing Debenhams x Richard Quinn Multicoloured Daisy Print Midi Prom Dress.
It can be all too easy to get stuck in your shopping habits and put certain brands in boxes—especially if you consider them to be too edgy, too young or overly minimalist for your taste. I've found that you can find style gems in the most unlikely of places. Debenhams is certainly a treasure trove of brands I wouldn't usually consider to be very "me," but I was surprised to see so many pieces I'd happily add to my summer capsule.
Yes, the store isn't exactly known for stocking the most high-end or edgiest of labels, but as anyone who's a regular high-street shopper will know, it can be tricky to find new sources of affordable fashion. From Red Herrings utilitarian basics and Studio By Preen's high-end–looking dresses to Quiz's new-season staples and Richard Quinn's vibrant prints, there's so much to be found on the store's website right now. Scroll down to see the pieces that have particularly caught my eye.
Debenhams x Richard Quinn
Perfect for a garden party.
A little bit of Mad Men styling.
This is our favourite print by far.
If you're looking for a printed smock dress.
Red Herring
I wear my black slip dress all the time.
You'll wear a utility jacket all summer long.
A cropped jumpsuit is so easy to style.
You can wear this with both strappy sandals and sneakers.
Studio by Preen
The asymmetric hemline is perfection.
Related: I Haven't Shopped at Debenhams for Years—These 9 Pieces Just Changed My Mind
Yellow flowers for summer are never a bad idea.
A logo knit for chilly evenings.
Green is still going strong.
Quiz
Wear with white jeans and chunky sandals.
This would look so good over a bikini.
If you buy any sandals this summer, make them chunky.
A simple wrap dress caters to all your dress needs.
Nine by Savannah Miller
This will carry you through the seasons with ease.
The floaty sleeves on this midi are a lovely detail.
Chuck on after the gym or before a flight.
This will feel so cool on a hot summer's day.
