Finding high street buys that look like designer is my hidden talent. Keep scrolling to see my top picks…
We all want to look like our most polished selves, don’t we? While, sadly, I’m not here to provide you with a week at a spa or an endless allowance at The Row, I am here to bring you a treasure trove of the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street every week. It’s my mission to prove that you can find premium pieces to elevate your wardrobe without the designer price tag and to make it easy for you to pinpoint the items on the high street that are really worth adding to your wardrobe.
There are some amazing gems out there that your friends won’t believe aren’t designer, but there’s a lot to sift through to find them. That’s where I come in. As a Who What Wear editor, I scroll new-in collections as a hobby, and I can spot an expensive-looking (and -feeling) piece a mile away. I’ll be adding the best bits I find to this list. Some may be more “affordable” than others, but you can be confident every piece is here because I believe it offers great value.
I hope this edit helps save you time and money as you build a closet of classic pieces that bring joy and last much longer than just a few seasons. Now to the good part. Keep scrolling to shop.
Shop the Most Expensive-Looking High-Street Items This Week
The way this skirt is cut, and how it gathers at the hem, ensures it hangs beautifully on the body. Wear now with a vest top and slider sandals, or with loafers and a cardigan come autumn.
Whistles
Sofia Crepe Waistcoat
Whistles has given us some of the best high-street tailoring this year, and it continues to deliver with this waistcoat set.
The very reason we started this feature was to profile pieces like this. Genuinely, this bag looks so high end, no one will believe you snagged it for under £35.
Massimo Dutti
Suede Leather Blazer
I’m starting to think about the investments I’d like to make for autumn, and Massimo Dutti’s new suede blazer is at the top of my wish list. I know it’s far from “cheap”, but I’ve seen very similar designer iterations go for ten times as much.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Knit Drop-Waist Maxi Dress
Between the beautiful colour and the chic silhouette, this maxi dress looks nothing short of designer.
Not quite a sandal, yet not exactly closed-toe either, these shoes strikes the perfect balance between the two. I don’t know about you, but rather than Mango I feel as if these look more akin to The Row or Toteme.
River Island
Black Bandeau Peplum Top
A fun top you can wear with everything, from linen trousers to slip skirts to jorts.
& Other Stories
Asymmetrical Beaded Necklace
I was this close to buying a necklace just like this for £195. Imagine my delight when I saw this style for much less. It also comes in yellow gold, should that be more your taste.
Mint Velvet
Yellow Wool Collarless Belted Coat
Okay, okay, I know we’re finally seeing some sun but I just had to show you this beautiful coat, which I know by looking it—its colour, its fit, its luxurious mood—will sell out by the end of August. The best coats always do.
Shop More Expensive-Looking High-Street Items
Trust H&M to offer slick tailoring with a modern knee-length cut at such an affordable price. Consider styling with sandals and a simple tank, or elevate with heeled mules and a sleek shirt.
Selected Femme
Tenna Sille Sleeveless Twist Maxi Dress
From the sophisticated high neckline to the delicate twist back, this understated dress is sure to make an impact. Dress down with sandals or elevate for occasions with heels.
COS
Cropped Wool Cardigan
I’m already thinking ahead to the milder days, and the shade and cut of this green cardigan means I’ll be wearing it on repeat.
& Other Stories
Striped Tailored Trousers
If you find yourself reaching to black tailored trousers on repeat, add an injection of summer style with this sleek striped pair.
M&S Collection
Cotton Blend Textured Midi Drop Waist Dress
With a textured bodice and elegant asymmetric shape, this dress is already proving to be a bestseller.
Zara
Braided Leather Flat Sandals
If you’re yet to find a pair of sandals to feature in your forever wardrobe, this Zara pair is definitely one to consider.
Free People
Free-Est Coastal Classy Set
Free People knows all about the brilliance of a classy co-ord, and this style takes on a sophisticated design in a relaxed cotton fabric. Basically, the perfect summer blend.
Nobodys Child
Black Box Pleat Midi Skirt
Nobody’s Child may be known for excellent dresses, but their skirt selection for summer 2024 is undeniably refined.
ASOS Edition
Ultra Wide Leg Linen Low Rise Pleat Front Trouser
The black version sold out quickly, lucky for us a new white style has landed with the same contemporary ultra wide silhouette and intricate pleating details.
H&M
Linen-Blend Bandeau Top
We often say its the finer design details that make a simple piece exquisite. Here it’s all in the silhouette, from the fitted shape to the longer-length hem.
& Other Stories
Sleeveless Knit Maxi Dress
From the colour to the soft pleats, this dress feels endlessly elevated. Look to simple styling of strappy heels and a classic bag to let the dress be the main event.
Charles & Keith
Asymmetrical Shoulder Bag
Charles & Keith is known for making highly aesthetic yet affordable accessories, and I predict this asymmetrical shoulder bag will become a new It find.
River Island
Khaki Knit Button Up Cardigan
Cooler evenings are on the way, and this button up knit brings a polished edge to layering.
Nobodys Child
White Drop Waist Mallory Maxi Skirt
Skirts continue to be top of my wish list, and this dropped waist style in a fresh white shade has all my attention.
M&S Collection
Leather Patent Buckle Slingback Shoes
Flat shoes continue to be a staple in our wardrobes, and M&S introduces a cool buckle style that is sure to support outfit builds through summer and well into autumn.
Warehouse
Chiffon Channel Detail Sleeveless Midi Dress
The shirred details add interest through texture, whilst maintaining the versatility of a classic black dress. Dress down with sandals or elevate for evening with heels.
Zara
Zw Collection Linen Blend Pyjama-Style Trousers
COS
Bubble-Hem Shirt Dress
We’ve explore bubble hem dresses and bubble hem skirts, but COS has brought the contemporary style to the classic shirt dress, and I can’t stop thinking about ways to wear it.
Damson Madder
Iris Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress
From the elegant shade to the timeless cut, this dress can easily transform from day to night by swapping sandals and a basket bag for heels and a clutch.
Mark me words, this intricate braided tote bag will sell out quickly.
Whistles
Mila Linen Blend Waistcoat
If you were impressed by Whistles Lindsey waistcoat you’re going to love the Mila. With a smattering of buttons and a surprisingly versatile shade, this piece will quickly become your new go-to.
COS
Balloon-Hem Maxi Skirt
Balloon hem styles have returned for summer 2024, and COS’s sleek maxi interpretation has all my attention.
Warehouse
Bermuda Denim Shorts
As I’m readying my wardrobe for summer holidays the first thing I’m looking for is a pair of reliable denim shorts with a contemporary knee-length cut.
& Other Stories
Strappy Satin Midi Dress
& Other Stories’ current collection is full of elegant pieces, with this minimalist dress destined to elevate my looks for years to come.
Karen Millen
Tailored Denim Look Linen Single Breasted Jacket
There’s no denying the versatility of a classic black blazer, but if you’re looking to revitalise your looks its worth considering this denim look style.
The Drop
Haven Lace-Up Gladiator Sandal
If you’re looking for a sandal sure to stand the test of time, look to the gladiator. Elegant, understated and a style that goes with everything from trousers to mini dresses.
Zara
Linen Blend Darted Trousers
There’s so much to love about this pair from the cropped length to the slight barrel cut to the tailored waistband.
Hush
Sandy Fluid Wide Leg Jumpsuit
For those who love an easy one piece, look to Hush’s jumpsuit that excels due to the fitted top and fluid loose bottoms.
Mango
100% Linen Trousers With Darts
I’ve been wearing my linen trousers on repeat this summer, and the tailored edge means this pair will work hard in your workwear and off-duty wardrobes.
This two-piece co-ord looks endlessly elevated. Better still, you can mix and match for various outfits with the same premium edge.
New Look
Light Brown Relaxed Shirt
Brown and blue is my new favourite colour combination and this particular shade is destined to work hard with my shorts, jeans, and skirts.
M&S Collection
Straw Shoulder Bag
Meet your new summer companion the M&S straw shoulder bag. Carry by the tote handles, or add the detachable strap to wear crossbody.
& Other Stories
Pleated Drawstring Midi Skirt
Featuring a soft drape, delicate drawstring sides and practical pockets, this skirt is sure to be a summer favourite. The hard part is choosing between the soft cream or classic black.
Peachy Den
The Deba Top, Tomato
Peachy Den’s beloved Deba top now comes in two fresh shades—this punchy red and a soft blue.
COS
Minimal Suede Sandals
The Row, Toteme, Khaite—if refined minimalism is what you’re searching for these minimal suede sandals should be on your radar.
Whistles
Poplin Cotton Mix Midi Dress
I’ve seen this dress in person and can confirm it’s even more elevated in real life. Note the delicate dropped waist that adds to the expensive-looking feel.
Nobody’s Child
Yellow Tailored Waistcoat
By now every fashion person has a waistcoat on their summer wish list, and this one comes in a joy-inducing lemon shade. Plus, find matching trousers and blazer for a complete look.
COS
Longline Denim Shorts
Longer lengths add serious sophistication to shorts, and this stone coloured pair will seamlessly blend with the rest of your wardrobe.
New Look
Tan Leather-Look Chunky Toepost Sandals
New Look’s summer collection is full to the brim with expensive-looking sandals ready to show off our summer pedicures.
A-line skirts are a key buy for summer 2024, and H&M’s is understated, refined and ready to work hard in your wardrobe.
& Other Stories
Oversized Linen Shirt
For those who always reach for a white linen shirt, why not add a versatile ice blue into the mix?
ALIGNE
Leah Linen Mini Dress
If you’re yet to add a summer LBD to your wardrobe, trust me when I say you’ll wear it on repeat. Especially as this one features a vest-style button-down design.
Mango
Natural Fibre Shopper Bag
With plenty of room to carry all your beachside or city day-out essentials. Plus, this has a similar design to designer styles that have featured on my dream wish list.
River Island
Cream Pleated Wide Leg Trousers
The delicately place tailoring not only adds to the contemporary wide leg silhouette, but also adds flow to each step.
M&S Collection
V-Neck Tie Front Blouse
Over the weekend I stopped a woman in the street wearing this top, it’s just that pretty. Pair with denim shorts, tailoring, floaty skirts and more.
From the square neckline to the delicate smock details, it’s hard to believe this ethereal dress is from the high street. This also comes in classic black, light green and a bold blue.
Whistles
Sofia Crepe Waistcoat
Whistles’ Limited Edition collection has arrived, and this refined waistcoat went straight in my basket. Pair with floaty skirts, tailoring, jeans and more.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Sweater Tube Top
From beachside strolls to al fresco city drinks, this elegant co-ord is sure to look the part. Wear together or separate for endless ways to wear.
Understated, refined, and made with responsibly manufactured leather, a classic black bag will serve your outfits all year round. Especially when it looks this good.
M&S Collection
Cotton Rich Midi Waisted Dress
M&S’s summer collection has arrived, and this easy sun dress is sure to move quickly. Available in petite, regular and long lengths.
Zara
Wide-Leg Trousers With Belt
With the elevation of tailoring and relaxed look of denim, these trousers will be reached for over and over again. Wear with a simple tank top and sandals, or recreate the look with the matching shirt.
Nobodys Child
White Linen-Blend Bernadetta Blouse
Nobody’s Child taps into the pretty trend that’s taking over summer 2024 with puffed sleeves and delicate bow details.
Mango
Mesh Ballerinas With Buckle Strap
Mango’s beloved mesh ballerinas sold out in black almost immediately. Now they’re back in a bold red shade even minimalists won’t be able to resist.
Massimo Dutti
Pleated Ramie Midi Skirt
Skirts are a key player for the warmer months, and if you’re looking for an elegant way to embrace the style look no further than Massimo Dutti’s fluid Ramie skirt.
Free People
Onda Drop-Waist Tube Midi
I saw someone on TikTok wearing this dress and immediately went to hunt it down, it’s just that good.
River Island
Pink High Neck Fitted Waistcoat
From the soft pink, to the high neck, to the curved hem, there’s so many refined details in this fitted waistcoat.
& Other Stories
Leather-Trimmed Straw Shoulder Bag
This summer-ready handbag has started to take off, and its easy to see why from the perfect balance of practicality and style.
H&M
Smock-Waisted Crêpe Skirt
We’re only just into summer, and it’s already clear that skirts are the main event. This one sings elegance from every angle.
Zara
Oversize Flowing Shirt
Even as a minimalist, I’m so drawn to bolder shades in the summer month, and this bold red shirt is destined to feature in so many of my looks.
Bustier co-ords are the emerging trend no one saw come, but it’s already a favourite of celebrities and fashion people alike.
Anthropologie
Lorna Gingham Shorts
For those who continue to turn to striped trousers, nows the time to add these playful gingham shorts into the mix for the hottest day.
Massimo Dutti
Flat Sandals With Interchangeable Straps
Understated, minimalist and sure to go the distance. What you don’t see is that these are more versatile than they appear, as they come with an extra set of straps allowing for two ways to wear these sandals.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Tailored Premium Linen Pant
We’re all looking to light linens right now, and Abercrombie’s exquisite tailoring has arrived just in time.
H&M
Linen-Blend Maxi Dress
We often say that the expensive-looking feel of high street pieces comes from thoughtful design details, like the twist straps and elegant silhouette of this dress.
Zara
Flower Tote Shoulder Bag
From flower markets to trips to the beach, this fan-shaped woven bag will be a seriously chic companion this summer.
Topshop
Co-Ord Linen Short in White
Looking for a polished way to wear shorts to work? Longer length tailored styles are the way to go.
Nobodys Child
Green Mock Crochet Waistcoat
We’re seeing a lot of waistcoats around right now, and the deep green shade and intricate knitwork of this piece makes it standout from the rest.
Mango
Dress With a Belted Neckline
All our editors have noticed how strong Mango’s dress selection is right now, and this one has made its way to the top of my wish list.
Pilcro
Woven Leather Ballet Flats
On the topic of intricacy, these woven ballet flats take on the flat shoe trend and a Parisian edge all in one.
Anthropologie
Strapless Gingham Midi Dress
Gingham dresses have long been a summer hero, but this one excels in design. Note the contemporary drop waist detail and elegant bandeau silhouette.
Damson Madder
Damson Madder Romeo Blouse
Damson Madder knows all about creating modern icons. With an extra bold collar and sweet embroidery, this is sure to join the roster. Pair with floaty skirts, linen trousers, denim shorts and more.
Mango
Linen Jacket With Buttons
Whilst I wish that I could promise consistent sunshine, there are still days when we need a light layer, and a linen blazer adds practicality and style in equal measure.
& Other Stories
Relaxed Denim Shorts
Hunting for a grown-up way to wear denim shorts? Look to longer silhouettes like this pair from & Other Stories.
& Other Stories
Strappy Smocked Midi Dress
Full skirt dresses are everywhere right now, and this one sets itself apart with intricate top smocking.
Whistles
Lottie Pinstripe Waistcoat
Whistles has proved they know all about a best-selling waistcoat, and this striped style is the next one we predict to sell out.
Zara
Zw Collection Draped Midi Dress
We always say that its in the finer details that expensive looking pieces are made, and this dress proves it with delicate draping and refined tie-detail straps.
M&S Collection
Linen Rich Pleated Wide Leg Trousers
I’ve done lots of linen try-ons leading up to summer, and finding a pair of non see-through white trousers is a big eat, Lucky for you, I found this smart tailored pair by M&S that have recently joined my own collection.
River Island
White Waisted Smock Midi Dress
The easiest way to get dressed in the summer months is with a one-and-done dress that just calls for accessories. River Island’s style features a fitted bodice and high-end looking v-shape waist.
Sunny days have arrived and shorts are back in our wardrobe rotations. This pair is exactly how you can add a polished edge to the everyday.
By Anthropologie
Raffia Checkered Angular Tote Bag
There’s a lot of woven bags around right now, but this checkered style is not only a standout but could easily pass for designer.
Mango
Straight Striped Trousers
This is how to do smart tailoring with a summer-ready edge.
COS
Oversized Linen Shirt
If you find yourself turning to a white linen shirt over and over again, this fresh minty shade is sure to rejuvenate your outfits.
With waistcoats, loose shirts, simple tank tops and plenty more, fashion people are styling their maxi skirts on repeat right now.
mango
Natural Fibre Shoulder Bag
The easiest way to transition your looks into summer mode is by adding raffia accessories, and the dumpling shaped closure of this bag makes it
Nobody’s Child
Blue Linen-Blend One Shoulder Midi Dress
This is the sort of dress I know I can rely on for summer weddings but also throwing in my holiday suitcase. It’s that versatile.
M&S Collection
Linen Blend Halter Neck Cami Top
An elegant top that will elevate any jeans look, this M&S number looks way more expensive than it is.
M&S Collection
Linen Blend Button Through Longline Waistcoat
For those who like refined minimalism, a longline waistcoat should be on your radar. Especially when it comes in an airy linen for summer.
COS
Tailored Linen-Blend Trousers
Take the breathable nature of linen and add COS’s high-end looking tailoring and you get these smart yet summer-ready trousers. I particularly like the sharp front pleats.
Mango
Criss-Cross Straps Sandals
No matter what occasion calls for a pair of strappy sandals this summer, put your best foot forward in this sleek pair.
Autograph
Pintuck Detail Midaxi A-Line Skirt
M&S has stepped into summer, and the first thing I’ll be adding to my wardrobe is this floaty skirt. Note the delicate pleating that adds to the overall expensive-looking appeal to this piece.
& Other Stories
Wide Linen Trousers
& Other Stories
Fitted Linen Blazer
You could also wear this over a slip dress.
ZARA
Block Heel Suede Mules
I think these suede mules look so much more expensive than their £36 price tag.
Nobody’s Child
Khaki Shirred Cassandra Midi Dress
Known for brilliant dresses, its no surprise that Nobody’s Child would have us thinking this was a designer piece. The perfectly placed ruching and elegant square neckline are enough to set it apart.
Zara
Leather Mules With Bow Detail
Take on trending red, versatile flat soles and a sweet bow to finish, and you get these sure to sell out mules.
Elegance is often found in simplicity, and few make this case better than this understated a-line shift dress by H&M.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Curve Love A&f Harper Tailored Linen-Blend Pant
Abercrombie’s highly rated Harper trousers have had a linen update for the warmer months, and this playful striped pair is high up on my wish list.
Free People
Caught in the Moment Maxi Skirt
With the arrival of sunshine this week, I’m dressing for bright days and I have a feeling this maxi skirt will be a main feature. As ever, Free People also offers the skirt in classic black, a bold yellow and a soft brown
Sister Jane
Dragonfly Cami Dress
Finding a dress that can go from day to event is harder than you’d think, but Sister Jane makes it look easy with this refined blue dress.
M&S Collection
Pure Cotton Square Neck Midi Cami Shift Dress
M&S’s sell-out dress has just had a restock. Available in three lengths, this versatile white dress will blend seamlessly into any wardrobe. If you want it, move quickly!
River Island
Plus Pink Button Up Longline Waistcoat
I haven’t been able to stop thinking about this sleek pairing since I first saw it, well done River Island.
Plus, from April 24th-28th the River Island Manchester store will host in-store events and activities with prizes to win, free coffees, and a pop-up flower cart! And the first 50 customers to spend over £55 each day receive a limited-edition tote bag.
If you find yourself reaching for tailored styles over and over again, why not add a playful edge into the mix with this tie-front style by COS.
M&S Collection
Satin Midaxi Wrap Skirt
Marks & Spencer’s spring collection has arrived and it’s full of sophisticated styles including this elegant wrap style skirt. Dress down with sandals and a simple tank, or elevate for evening with strappy heels and bold coloured top.
Mango
Braided Leather Bag
Looking for a handbag that’s practical in size and timeless in design? Now you can call off the search.
Arket
High Waist Linen Shorts
I’m welcoming in the warmer days with a summer time staple—linen shorts. Arket’s tailored style is refined enough for all occasions from coffee dates to the office.
M&S Collection
Linen Rich Relaxed Striped Blazer
Warmer spring days are on the horizon, and M&S has readied it’s new-in section with airy linen-rich styles like this very chic stripe blazer. Plus, there’s a matching top and trousers.
& Other Stories
Cropped Barrel-Leg Jeans
& Other Stories is known for it’s great denim, and this cropped barrel-leg style in a deep blue shade is currently top of my wish list.
COS
Leather-Trimmed Mesh Ballet Flats
If you’re yet to add a pair of sleek flats to your wardrobe, take this as your sign. Pair with tailoring, dresses, jeans and much more.
Soon enough, we’ll be pairing simple tanks with wide leg trousers or floaty skirts for the warmer days. Update your basic style with eternally chic stripes and an elegant boat neckline.
Arket
Relaxed Wool-Blend Trousers
If excellent tailoring on the high street is what you’re after, then look no further than Arket. Whilst their exquisitely cut wool-blend trousers come in versatile neutrals like brown and black, its the red that’s caught my eye.
COS
Column Jeans Straight
If you’re looking to refresh your denim selection for the spring months, look to white and ecru shades in best-selling styles like COS’s column jeans.
Nobody’s Child
Dark Blue Denim Starlight Midi Dress
From the slight puff sleeve to the panelled waist, there’s a lot to love about this dress.
Arket
Relaxed Cotton Shirt
We often turn to Arket for reliable staples, like a classic striped shirt that will feature in our outfit builds all year round.
H&M
Tailored Linen Trousers
With the warmer days, we’re welcoming the return of linen styles to our outfit rotations. As such a spring and summer staple, it’s worth spending a bit more on this premium pair, especially for the classic straight-leg cut and 100% linen fabrication.
& Other Stories
Buttoned Rib-Knit Cardigan
& Other Stories knows that the finer details can set a piece apart. Just look at the organic-shaped silver buttons of this cardigan.
M&S Collection
Linen Blend Longline Trench Coat
Trench coat season is here, and I have a feeling this luxe-looking linen style will move quickly.
I keep spotting fashion people in full a-line skirts, and this Zara style is the best I’ve found. Note the intricate box pleats, classic black shade and even features pockets.
Charles & Keith
Cesia Canvas Metallic Accent Shoulder Bag
Charles & Keith’s iconic bag now comes in spring-ready canvas style.
H&M
Linen-Blend Pull-On Trousers
Warm days are right around the corner, and I’m preparing my wardrobe with airy linen trousers.
Zara
100% Linen Basic Shirt
A classic shirt will come in handy all year round, especially in this elevated shade.
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