’s roll-call of famous fans is as legendary as the blue Issa dress that Kate Middleton wore for her engagement portrait – little wonder, then, that its price tags put it out reach for most of us.

But ELLE can happily confirm that its forthcoming collection in collaboration with high street favourite Banana Republic, which boasts dresses priced from £75, is worth the hype. Among the 40-piece-strong line are preppy knits, throw-on-and-go tunics, luxe envelope clutches – even an updated version of said iconic blue wrap.

We caught up with Issa chairwoman Camilla Al-Fayed to get the skinny.

Kate Middleton's Style File

Why did you decide to do a high street collaboration?

Even though Issa is a very well known brand in its own right, we wanted to take it to the next level. We were approached by Banana Republic last year, in August, and asked to collaborate on a capsule collection. We thought there would be a wonderful synergy between the two brands, our visions and philosophies.

How are the Issa girl and the Banana Republic girl alike?

The Banana Republic girl is easy going, very feminine and effortlessly chic, just like the Issa girl.

How did you go about editing the final collection?

I wanted the collection to stay true to what Issa represents. Issa is print based brand, but I also wanted the collection to be timeless and comfortable. We made sure that the prints we chose went on a style and with fabric that would have universal appeal.

Have you learnt anything from the project that will influence future Issa collections?

That remains to be seen but we are very excited by BR development of accessories, such as costume jewellery and handbags.

Which piece from the collection will you be wearing most?

I will wear the Issa iconic jersey dress. And all the accessories.

Set your reminders now: the collection lands in store on 13 August.