I had given an exclusive look at the high street's most coveted collaboration yet...here are the Rixo x John Lewis pieces you don't want to miss

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Every year, winter occasions catch me out.

Not Christmas, when sequins and velvet are entirely acceptable, but winter weddings, for example, or landmark birthdays. I have one such wedding on the horizon, and I’ve suddenly realised nothing in my wardrobe is suitable for it.

When an occasionwear conundrum like this strikes, the more fashion-forward among you will know exactly where to turn: RIXO. Known for its distinctive prints and vintage-inspired designs, the British label has become a go-to for dresses for any event - including a relaxed Sunday doing nothing.

Since launching in 2015, co-founders Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey have built a devoted following among fashion editors and celebrities alike. Everyone from the Princess of Wales to Margot Robbie has worn the brand.

But there were only four stores in the UK, and they were all in London, alongside a Liberty concession and an outlet at Bicester Village. And as anyone partial to a big online shop will know, the trouble with purchasing more than one formal dress is that you need to take out a second mortgage to do so. Sometimes you simply want to try it on before you make a purchase.

Enter John Lewis.

Today sees the launch of John Lewis x RIXO, the retailer’s biggest and arguably most exciting collaboration to date. The 44-piece collection brings RIXO’s signature aesthetic to a wider audience, with pieces available across John Lewis stores nationwide.

Rather than simply adding another designer name to the high street, this is a collaboration that promises to make getting dressed for winter’s social calendar considerably easier.

I was given an exclusive look at the collection, and what a treat it was.

I’m not always drawn to florals. Too often, they can veer into twee territory, but the black-ground prints here - including the Lucy and the Amari - feel altogether more sophisticated. These are clothes with character that don’t feel so ostentatious they become unwearable.

The surprise favourite? A £235 mini dress. I hadn’t expected to gravitate towards it, but the satin finish and pankou knot detail make it feel particularly special. I’d wear it over trousers - I’m still a little nervous of anything that stops above the knee - although it looks equally good with bare legs and the collection’s velvet pumps.

Then there’s the standout blue/grey floral print, inspired by an 1849 block-printed textile from the John Lewis Partnership Archive. The exclusive floral motif appears across two dresses, a blouse, a skirt and a scarf, offering a thoughtful nod to the retailer’s heritage. 

The Carina printed maxi dress, pictured below, features a flattering sweetheart neckline and is the most expensive piece in the collection at £545 and is available in sizes 6–20. 

Yes, the dresses are the main attraction, but don’t overlook the separates. The 100 per cent silk black skirt is a particularly smart investment. It’s suitable for a wedding or evening event, but shouldn’t be left languishing in your wardrobe. I love the idea of wearing it with knitwear for a more relaxed day look. 

Jackets are having a moment this season, and the collection delivers here too. The cropped velvet jacket with gold embroidery, £325, and a tuxedo-style design, £295, certainly aren’t cheap but will bring a chic vintage edge to an existing wardrobe, with plenty of mileage beyond party season.

Their Luanne faux-fur-trimmed jacket is another winner. The cropped length is particularly flattering, and it looks fabulous over delicate satin and lace-trimmed dresses. This rich green with its jacquard print will take you up to and through the festive party season. 

That sense of individuality is central to the collection. As RIXO co-founder Orlagh McCloskey explains: ‘If you’re going to do a collaboration, you have to do it properly. It should feel as strong, if not stronger, than anything you’ve created before – every piece considered, every detail cared for, and something you feel genuinely proud to put your name to.’

She adds: ‘We can’t wait to see women across the UK, whether they’re longtime RIXO lovers or discovering us for the first time through John Lewis, style it in their own way and make it theirs.’

Thanks, Orlagh, that’s my winter wedding outfit sorted.