Buy Me: Allders special collection

Can you believe that these are clothes from the spring/summer range at Allders? Yes, that tired-looking department store seems to be upping the stakes in a bid to take on Debenhams and the others who have been encouraging young designers such as Pearce Fionda and Lulu Guiness to design diffusion ranges at a snip of the price of their designer ranges. We've already seen the fall, unsurprisingly, of Littlewoods, and if some other big-wigs don't get their thinking caps on there are going to be more casualties.

Just as well, then, that Allders seems to have come up with an ultra- wearable and amazingly priced collection, the best of which is seen here in a pastel floral print dress (pounds 27) and modern white trouser suit (jacket pounds 45, trousers pounds 33). Allders have also recently introduced the slightly more cutting edge A Grade collection for a more design-conscious market. Allders are the fourth largest department store on the high street, with over 20 stores throughout the country. Perhaps next time you walk past your local branch you'll do more than look at your reflection in the window and actually take a trip inside.

North End, Croydon, Surrey and branches nationwide, inquiries 0181-681 5232.