I Tried On the New High Street Collection Everyone's Talking About

Here at Who What Wear UK, we're all about delivering the latest and greatest shopping edits, as approved by our team. That's why we've created a new shopping column, The Joy of Shopping, which will see me, Joy Montgomery, heading to all your favourite stores to test out new-in pieces IRL. From summer dresses to the brands you might've forgotten about, prepare for changing room selfies aplenty. Is there something you'd like me to cover? Make sure to tweet or Instagram me your requests!

We've felt like a bit of a broken record over the last few months with our constant refrain to 'buy less, buy better', but this season it feels as though the message is finally sinking in. Whether it's the stripped-back basics proliferating on Instagram or the 'capsule edits' created by our favourite stores, the spirit of simplicity is certainly spreading. As a high street enthusiast, I'm couldn't be happier.

Debenhams' highly anticipated in-house fashion brand, KLEY, is the ultimate reflection of this shift in the fashion zeitgeist. Launched in September, KLEY describes itself as "modern, clean cut and effortless clothing that satisfy dressing for the everyday." Versatile, flattering and, most importantly, seasonless, this collection is what women have been calling out for for decades. 

With prices ranging from £20 to £220, this is definitely pitched at the affordable end of the market, but it's a demographic that has felt somewhat unrepresented when it comes to quality, grown-up pieces designed to stand the test of time. Browsing the rails, I found plenty of chic pieces to satisfy my needs as a twenty-something fashion editor, but I can also safely say that I can imagine my mum finding plenty of options too, and that is no mean feat.

So, most impotently, what are my hero pieces? Top marks goes to the buttery soft teal leather coat, which might be at the upper end of the price range, but is worth every penny. I also rate the grey neck-tie knit for its cosy yet cool appeal, which will look equally as good with a leather skirt as it will with jeans. Also, make sure you don't miss the beige cross-body bag, which looks tens times its price. Interested? Scroll down to see and shop my complete KLEY edit. 

Style Notes: Stop the search - I've just found my dream coat. Coming in butter soft leather and a '90s-inspired boxy fit, this is probably my highlight of the collection. The higher price point is totally justified IMO as it feels like a designer item and it's sure to make your money back in cost-per-wear.

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Style Notes: A suit is fast becoming a staple in the fashion-lovers' wardrobe, even if you don't work in a formal office environment. This plum-coloured look becomes more chic less corporate with the addition of a white tee, ballet pumps and belt bag. 

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Style Notes: I've fallen back in love with the ballet pump this season, but these are far from the bow-tie iterations from your teen years. This pointed, cream-coloured pair is so grown-up and elegant and is sure to look good with everything from denim to midi dresses. 

Style Notes: If you buy any coat this season, make it a trench. There are so many different interparations out there at a range of price points, but look from Kley ticks all the boxes with its simple silhouette and single-breasted fit. I sized up because I wanted to create a more oversized finish. 

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Style Notes: There are so many fab printed dresses around right now, which are great for the shifting seasons. This long-sleeved style comes in a super-flattering fit (high neckline and floaty skirt) and light fabric, meaning it's fitted without being too sweaty. I'll be wearing with chunky lace-up boots this October.

Style Notes: I never thought I'd be someone who would enjoy a chunky boot but, lo-and-behold, I've become a convert, as they're just what you need when you want to add a little toughness to an outfit. I'm enjoying the subtle mock croc finish, which would look super expensive with straight leg jeans or satin slip skirts. 

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Style Notes: The knitted co-ord is an unexpected addition to our autumn/winter capsule, but I'm totally here for it. Together they offer a very Rosie HW tonal effect (so cosy too), but I can also imagine adding polish to the trousers with a white shirt and heeled boots. 

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Style Notes: If I had to choose one outfit combo to wear for the entirety of October, it would have to be the chunky knit and silky slip. This slip dress is just the right length to add a warm roll neck and boots, but what's great is that you could also easily dress it up by itself with strappy heels.

Style Notes: Not all high street teddy coats are made equal, and this Kley look is proof of this. Made of a heavy-weight shearling fabric, it fits like a dream (although it is slightly oversized) and looks so good with leather trousers. A weekend winner if I ever saw one.

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Style Notes: If you're not quite brave enough to try the 'scrumper', then this clever jumper essentially does the hard work for you. A scarf and jumper in one? It's a yes from me. Make the most of the item's woollen appeal and style with a leather midi skirt for a satisfying textural finish.

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Style Notes: Unlike many other affordable bags, I love that this beige piece is super simple—it undoubtedly makes it look ten times more premium. Finished with a cross-body strap, this is just the right size for both work and weekend. 

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Style Notes: I had to include a close-up of this little belt bag which, again, like the above beige style, wins with its simplicity. I think it works best with tailored jackets and blazers, but I can imagine it would also look the part with a chunky knit. 

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Style Notes: On the hanger I wasn't sure if I'd like this pair of green leather trousers, however when paired with a nude roll neck, I instantly fell in love. The trouser leg is just the right level of baggy to look good with both oversized jumpers and more slim-fit tops.

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Style Notes: Despite not being a trainer person, I have recently conceded that a classic pair of white lace-ups is a great addition to my wardrobe. This white and grey pair toe the line between preppy and sporty and will make a comfy pairing for your fave polished autumn staples. 

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