I tried some of the standout pieces from Debenhams’ brand new heritage runway collection that’s full of knitwear, sequins and boho vibes – these are the pieces to buy
Autumn fashion collections are in full swing, and Debenhams is the latest retailer to drop a new season range. Packed full of tailoring, sequins and knitwear with a boho twist, the Runway London 1.8.1.8 collection celebrate’s the brand’s heritage, and has everything you need to see you through autumn and well into party season.
With 40 pieces to choose from, I tried some of the stand out pieces and styled them for autumn to see which were worth spending your money on and what would become a wardrobe must-have for years to come.
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Runway 1.8.1.8 Wool Blend Shaggy Sleeve Cable Knit Jumper, £69
Starting with one of my absolute favourite pieces in the whole collection, this cable knit jumper is a timeless classic. It’s made from 20% wool, which makes it super warm, and the fringe detail on the sleeves amps it up from your standard cable knit jumper. My one criticism is that it could have been slightly softer and snugglier, however the fit, shape and design more than make up for it, and I already know I’ll be wearing this for years to come.
I paired it with a pair of baggy jeans for a cosy seasonal look, but you could easily wear it with a leather mini skirt or over a midi dress with boots.
Runway 1.8.1.8 Wool Blend Oversized Dress With Scarf, £95
We’ve spotted scarf jackets and jumper everywhere this season, but this scarf jumper dress is the perfect cosy autumn outfit. The scarf is fully detachable, so you can wear both pieces separately, but wearing them together gives you an instantly put together look with minimal effort – just what we need when getting ready in this chilly weather. Like the jumper it’s made from 20% wool and has a heavy feel which makes it hang really nicely – an instant favourite.
I wore it with a pair of Jadon Smooth Leather Platform Boots, £200 from Dr Martens, for an easy, cosy look, but it would look just as good with platform trainers or a pair of loafers.
Runway 1.8.1.8 Chantilly Lace Pussy Bow Blouse, £45
Boho was a big theme behind Debenhams’ new collection, and this lace pussy bow blouse is the perfect way to bring the trend into your wardrobe. It’s easy and effortless to style and can be worn in a few different ways. The length is just right for leaving it untucked, but the material is lightweight enough it can be tucked into jeans or a skirt without bunching. You can also tie the scarf into an oversized bow, or sling one end over your shoulder and leave the other trailing.
I wore it with these 70s-inspired Pocket Detail Wide Leg Jeans from Michelle Keegan’s collection with Very, which are now discounted to £17.70 and almost sold out. However the Button Front High Waist Wide Leg Trouser, £65, from the Debenhams range is a great alternative.
Runway 1.8.1.8 Check Sequin Strappy Dress, £85
We can’t possibly head towards party season without some sparkles, and this tartan-print sequin midi dress was up there with my all-time favourite pieces from the Runway 1.8.1.8 range. It’s form-fitting and flattering, fully lined and great quality so you don’t need to worry about it being see through or flimsy. The print is also perfectly place to accentuate your waist and flatter your figure, and I instantly felt fantastic when wearing it.
I wore it with a pair of Schuh’s Lorella Point Flat Shoes, £38, to show how easily it can be worn for day time, but you could just as easily amp it up for a party with a pair of metallic platforms and a velvet coat.
Runway 1.8.1.8 Velvet Lace Insert Dress, was £65 now £39
I’m not usually a barely-there dress kind of gal, but this gave me just the right amount of coverage to feel comfortable whilst still giving the semi-naked illusion. The velvet panels are thick and supportive, so you feel held in and secure, and the lace also has some stretch so you don’t feel restricted or like it’s constantly moving around. The panels were a little awkwardly placed for someone with curves like me, and it took some playing around to lay them where I felt like they flattered my shape. However this is definitely a knockout dress that’s perfect for party season.
I wore it with a pair of old jewel-covered stilettos from Zara which have long since sold out, however these Chain-Link Strap Heeled Mules from Charles and Keith are the perfect alternative, and they’re currently on sale down from £69 to £43.
