The collab to end all collabs has arrived. On Thursday 9th October, Debenhams will officially relaunch its Designers At Debenhams line, which has seen the likes of John Rocha, Matthew Williamson and Henry Holland take the reins since it first began life in 1993. The designer to bring it into 2025 is none other than London Fashion Week favourite Ashish, whose signature sequins and tongue-in-cheek slogans have made him a cult name to know amongst celebs and industry-insiders alike. And who better to bring it all to life than the woman, the myth, the legend that is Kim Cattrall (well, she is British after all). As if we weren’t already itching to add the entire 15-piece collection to our baskets, seeing Ms Cattrall strut her stuff in rainbow faux-fur, sparkling sequins and swirl print separates has us already feeling sorry for our bank balances.
As Ashish himself puts it: “Kim is an icon, and I couldn’t think of anyone better for this campaign. Her sense of humour, wit and style make her even more extraordinary. This collection is all about joy, and owning your presence, and it was such a delight and a privilege to be able to work with her.”
We spoke to the woman herself about British fashion, personal style and advice on how we can all be a bit more Kim Cattrall when it comes to our wardrobe choices.
How does it feel to be the face of the re-launched Designers at Debenhams campaign?
It feels wonderful. Designers at Debenhams is such a part of British fashion culture, it was always about making beautiful, designer-led clothes feel accessible and democratic. To be asked to front this new chapter feels both nostalgic and exciting. I remember seeing those collaborations in store years ago, and now I get to be part of its reintroduction for a new generation.
You and Ashish are a match made in heaven. How did the collaboration come about, and what was it like to work with him?
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I adored working with Ashish. He has such a playful, fearless approach to design. His work is filled with joy, colour, and this sense of glamour that doesn’t take itself too seriously. That’s a spirit I relate to very much. From the moment we met, it felt like a natural fit. This campaign is about celebrating individuality and the theatre of dressing up, and his pieces capture that beautifully.
What’s your favourite piece from the collection and why?
It has to be the sweater and long skirt set. It’s chic yet incredibly wearable, and I love that balance. The colour palette is striking but not overwhelming, and I like how it can move effortlessly from something relaxed at home to something dramatic with the right accessories. To me, that versatility is what makes fashion empowering, it adapts to your mood and your life.
What do you love about UK fashion, from the designers to the high street?
British fashion has always had this duality, it’s rooted in heritage but it’s also daring, rebellious, and witty. Growing up in Britain, especially in the late ’70s, I was surrounded by that creative energy. UK designers have always pushed boundaries while still understanding the importance of wearability. That mix of bold vision and accessibility is what makes British fashion truly unique and something I’ll always feel loyal to.
You’re known for your bold personal style. Who are some of your style icons/inspirations?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with some of the best costume designers in film and television, and each collaboration left its mark on me. Patricia Field [Sex And The City costume designer], of course, is someone I consider a mentor and dear friend. She always encouraged me to take risks and reminded me that fashion should be fun, a tool of self-expression, not just a uniform. Beyond that, I admire women like Bianca Jagger and Diana Vreeland, who dressed unapologetically.
What do you look for when it comes to shopping — how do you choose pieces for your own wardrobe?
For me, it’s about a combination of instinct and practicality. I edit my wardrobe often because I don’t like clutter. I only keep what I love and what feels relevant to me now. I look for pieces that make me feel something, whether it’s confidence, comfort, or joy. I’ll always have my staples from a great blazer, a versatile dress, well-cut trousers but I also enjoy discovering those special, unexpected finds, even on a sale rack.
What advice would you give to those who are less confident in their style choices — how can they dial up the drama?
Start small and give yourself permission to play. Fashion should feel like an extension of yourself, not a costume you’re trapped in. Confidence builds with every step, and soon those “little experiments” become part of your signature style.
You’ve played a whole host of powerful women throughout your career — is there a dream role you’d love to take on next?
I’ve been fortunate to play many layered, complex women, but there are still so many stories to tell. Recently I worked with the BBC on Central Intelligence, about Eloise Page, who rose to become the highest-ranking woman in the CIA, a woman I had never heard of before. Bringing visibility to women like her, who lived extraordinary lives often in the shadows, is very meaningful to me. That’s the kind of work I want to keep doing by giving voice to women whose stories deserve to be seen and celebrated.
The Designers at Debenhams x Ashish AW25 collection will be available exclusively at Debenhams.com from 8am on Thursday 9th October. Prices start from £59.
Rebecca Jane Hill is the Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She has previously contributed to publications including Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Refinery29, The Face, Glamour and Stylist. She started her own magazine, Sister, in 2012 whilst at university. Focused around feminism, fashion and culture, it went on to produce 12 globally stocked print issues, as well as countless events and partnerships. She closed the magazine in 2023.
Rebecca has been an associate lecturer at London College of Fashion since 2018, where she teaches on the Fashion Journalism course. She is a passionate second-hand shopper and is constantly on the lookout for new design talent.
