These Dresses Look Designer, But They’re Actually From This High Street Shop

Have you ever experienced that sinking feeling when you spot an incredible dress that you instantly fall in love with, only to then notice a price tag that's the equivalent of three months' rent? Well, then you might imagine how deliciously sweet it would be the other way round: spotting a frock you immediately assume is designer, only to realise that it is, in fact, the product of the Great British high street.

This is exactly what happened while perusing Monsoon's latest wares recently. While my mind has been swirling with the possibility of irresistible dresses from the likes of Ganni, Rixo, Batsheva and Vampire's Wife, when it came to the high street options, Monsoon wasn't the most obvious choice. But while it may have been overlooked, it's actually full of some really lovely dresses – most of which look far more expensive than they are.

It all started with a blue, button-detail dress that I wore, only for everyone I encountered to ask which designer had made it. The incredulity and sheer disbelief upon learning it was, in fact, from Monsoon made me feel vindicated; I knew that I was on to a winner.

BUY: Cape Sleeve Maxi Dress, £170

Since then, I've made a point of checking the Monsoon website regularly, largely just to see which dresses I want to add to my basket. And it's a lot, I have to tell you. From sunshine yellow midis to incredible, printed sun dresses, you can find everything from your ideal wedding guest outfit to a new workwear staple. Just be prepared for your colleagues to assume you've had a pay rise.

The brand has also started a new initiative to encourage a more conscious approach to shopping. If you happen to have any old Monsoon clothes you now don't wear, you can exchange them in any store for a £10 voucher to use when you spend £50 or more. You simply hand your old clothes over at the till and Monsoon will then donate them to charity to be sold or recycled, with all profits going towards Newlife, a charity dedicated to changing the lives of disabled and terminally ill children across the UK.

If you're not already at the checkout, virtual or otherwise, it may be worth noting that there is currently 20 per cent off everything on Monsoon's website at the moment. But be quick – this offer ends at midnight tonight.