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High Street Fashion I'm Surprised Is From The High Street
23 high street finds, from Arket, Reformation, Cos and more, that look much more expensive than they really are.
A good six years ago I realised I had a bit of a clothes shopping problem. Somewhere in between carrying the eight and ninth Ikea bag full of clothes from one London rental to the next, I considered that maybe fast fashion's modus operandi, that everyone needs - no, deserves - cheap and new clothing endlessly, had got to me.
After many self-made challenges (no new clothes for a year, one designer item a month, and so on, and so forth), and proper grown-up expenses to contend with (hello, mortgage and nursery fees), I'm happy to say I now have a very healthy and balanced approach to buying clothes. Always looking for a deal and of course aware of the environmental impact of over consuming, my wardrobe is largely made up of pre-loved, vintage, and sale bought designer pieces.
But, it also includes high street items, carefully chosen and considered for their quality (I try to look for natural materials and fibres), wearability, and style. Arket, Cos, Reformation and M&S are amongst my go-to for expensive looking items that will last more than a couple of seasons, and here's an edit of what's in right now.
Adding a pop of red to outfits is such an easy way for them to feel fresh. This cashmere jumper will last a long time too (if you look after it properly), all the way until a pop of red goes out of, and back in style again.
Shearling has had a bit of a sleek 2023 update. Which is lucky, since shearling coats are one of the cosiest styles around.
If you're all about suiting but are bored of trousers, try a suit skirt like this maxi from Massimo Dutti.
The oversized cuffs elevate H&M's cotton shirt to much more than that. Coming in three different colours, I thought the black would be best for winter workwear.
The perfect layering piece for winter and paired with just a skirt for summer, Mango's asymmetric top will work hard for you.
Big enough to fit a little MacBook Air, this nylon bag ticks the practical and chic boxes with ease.
While low rise and barrel leg jeans are the adventurous shapes du jour, high rise straight leg jeans are a staple for your wardrobe.
Knee high kitten heel boots are a must this season and M&S leather pair have a generous calf size so they are even more comfortable. I'll be pairing with a denim midi skirt and white t-shirt to the office.
Bodycon dresses are back and H&M's draped version (which comes in brown also) is perfect for New Year's Eve with vertigenous heels and sheer tights.
High-waisted, straight leg jeans are a worthwhile investment, particularly if they are no-stretch like these. Pair with knitwear for now and shirts for work.
Mixed metal hoops are a great way to tie together other gold and silver jewellery you might be wearing. Plus, Mejuri currently has a Black Friday sale going on.
Take advantage of Missoma's rare sale with a cut-price gold chain, to be worn from desk to dinner alike.
Ghost's satin dresses are perfect for events, be it Christmas parties or summer weddings all year round. I'd wear this with ballet flats and an overcoat in winter and kitten heels come summer.
A perfect layering piece, M&S' merino wool jumper comes in multiple utilitarian hues, but my favourite is this chocolate brown.
This shape of boot has become a real staple in designer collections, and I love this Cos pair in a burgundy red.
Mary-Jane ballet flats with a high collar like these from Cos are so wearable and stylish. I'm such a fan.
Black Friday sales are a great time to buy staples like winter coats, and & Other Stories' single-breasted coat should last you many winters.
I have been wearing my set of these grey socks on rotation with aforementioned Mary-Jane ballet flats and loafers to work.
To be layered over knee-high boots and a t-shirt and paired with a tote and blazer for the office or strappy sandals on summer holidays, this Nobody's Child slip dress feels luxe and minimal.
I'm usually hesitant to recommend pieces that are all over Instagram, but a good leather jacket is a good leather jacket. The exposed zip offers a modern take on a classic shape.
Daisy Murray is the Digital Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, spotlighting emerging designers, sustainable shopping, and celebrity style. Since joining in 2016 as an editorial intern, Daisy has run the gamut of fashion journalism - interviewing Molly Goddard backstage at London Fashion Week, investigating the power of androgynous dressing and celebrating the joys of vintage shopping.
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