When Net-A-Porter launched its sister site, The Outnet, earlier this year, we knew our online shopping habit was about to go through the roof. Designer bargains with between 40% and 60% off the original price and with no skimping on the quality? Well, it's a no-brainer really. It's no secret everyone went a bit Outnet crazy, and although they won't release any sales stats until next year, we can only imagine the figures, especially during a recession. Amazingly, The Outnet's founder, Net-a-porter's Natalie Massenet, has claimed that the site was opened in the middle of the recession as a result of luck rather than foresight (we suspect she's just being modest, as she's clearly gifted with some kind of fashion sixth sense).

Interestingly, customer over-lap between Net-a-porter and the Outnet is only 6 percent, with fashionistas frequenting the original Net-à-Porter and bargain hunters on the Outnet. But that might be all about to change, because the Outnet has commissioned a designer collection. Hot on the heels of eBay's announcement that Narciso Rodriguez will be designing a range to sell through his own eBay account, The Outnet have just unveiled online a capsule collection created exclusively for them by Paul and Joe! Staying true to form with a selection of feminine and classic pieces, the brand's founder Sophie Albou has chosen a range of laid-back items from the P&J archives including tuxedo blazers (so hot for Christmas), coats, silk blouses, kaftans and tailored shorts, all being sold for bargain prices of between £85 and £225. So far this is the only commission in the pipeline, but a spokesperson at The Outnet hinted it may not be the last so watch this space recessionistas!