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
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.
Shop More Expensive-Looking High-Street Items
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.
H&M
Fringe-Trimmed Lace Polo Shirt
Holidays are coming up fast, and this is boho set is sure to get you in the beachside mood.
& 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.
Anthropologie
Linen-Blend Bandeau Top
We all know about the relaxed properties of linen, but few are able to make this airy fabric look this elegant.
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.
Peachy Den
The Deba Top in Onyx
Peachy Den’s best-selling top is now back in stock. Pair with jeans, skirts, shorts, tailoring, basically everything.
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.
Zara
Long Strappy Dress With Beads
Summer is all about ease, and I can picture throwing on this loose dress on repeat. And just wait until you see the back!
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
H&M is fully in summer mode, and their sandal selection is so high-end looking.
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.
Easy to style, versatile to dress up or down, its no surprise that tank top dresses are back for another summer. And I’m particularly impressed by H&M’s offering in a deep green shade featuring an elegant dropped waist.
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.
Anthropologie
Puff-Sleeve Tie-Front Blouse
Pretty boho details are big news, and Anthropologie’s blouse ticks off intricate embroidery, sweet scalloping and delicate bows all in one.
& Other Stories
Relaxed Drawstring Trousers
Linen trousers are the backbone of our wardrobes in the warmer months, and this pair brings an element of fun to the timeless offering.
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.
My year round wardrobe always relies on classic shirts, and this joyful yellow shade is next to join the collection. Pair with jeans, shorts, skirts and more.
Hush
Sophie Straw Crossbody Bag
Practical, understated and warm-weather ready—this straw bag will become a longstanding summer hero.
COS
Market Small Bucket Bag
This is the perfect summer basket bag.
Arket
A-Line Cotton Skirt
A-line skirts are huge news this season. Style yours with the matching top or opt for a vest and blazer.
& 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.
You just can’t go wrong with a striped linen shirt at this time of the year, and H&M is one of my favourite destinations for good-quality but affordable pieces.
Whether you’re a minimalist or maximalist, this red peplum top promises to serve you well this season. Those that love colour can pair it with matching trousers, but if, like me, your summer wardrobe consists of mainly neutral pieces, why not wear it with classic blue jeans or shorts?
Tank-style dresses come back every single summer and this biscuity beige iteration is the ideal work-to-dinner style.
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.
River Island
Cream Crew Neck Waistcoat
Waistcoats have become a key part of the fashion uniform, and so many of our team is adding this refined version to their baskets. Wear with jeans, skirts, tailoring and more.
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.
Nothing says timeless style like a restocked item. Proving that another summer calls for a chic raffia clutch, COS has restocked their Framed bag in both the natural and black colourways. Style Notes: treasure forever.
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.
Topshop
Lace Trim Insert Tie Up Waist Coat
I’ve been looking to freshen up my top selection and for summer 2024 I’m looking to boho-inspired styles. Pair with denim shorts and fisherman sandals for day, or the maxi skirt above and mule heels to take it to night.
There’s no denying how strong H&M’s new collection is. I can picture this dress with sandals and a straw bag for sunny day strolls, or elevated with heels for an evening affair.
ZARA
Waistcoat with Tuxedo-Style Collar
Zara proves that simple can be seriously impactful with this tuxedo-style jacket. The white shade adds a fresh edge to your outfits, and the sleek tailoring completes the polished feel.
Aligne
Miso Pinstripe Straight Leg Jean
If you’re looking to rejuvenate your jeans collection, the addition of a stripe is the way to go. Pair with a simple tee and throw a cardigan round your shoulders, or go full force with the matching set.
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!
Arket
Leather-Detailed Straw Bag
With holidays on the horizon, I’m looking to inject some raffia into my wardrobe by way of this playfully-shaped tote.
NA-KD
X Danielle Copperman Flounce Detail Plisse Blouse
I’ve got my eye on every piece of this collaboration, but this plisse top is one I know I’ll turn to over and over again.
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.
& Other Stories
Wide Linen Trousers
As we know, linens are about to enter our wardrobes in a big way, and these light khaki trousers with a polished tailoring edge are top of my wish list.
Mango
Mesh Ballerinas With Buckle Strap – Women
I’ve recently embraced the mesh shoe movement, and this fresh white pair will immediately add a spring touch to every step.
H&M
Draped Linen-Blend Dress
H&M knows all about the eternal appeal and flattering construction of a draped dress, so I have no doubt that this spring-ready linen-blend style will move quickly.
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.
Zara
Trf High-Waist Turn-Up Jeans
Wide-leg denim styles are reigning supreme for 2024, and the turn-up cuff details on this pair set them apart.
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.
& Other Stories
Striped T-Shirt
Classic, chic looks are built from great foundations, and a striped t-shirt is a versatile piece that should feature in any and all wardrobes.
Tank dresses are back in rotation as the warm weather arrives, and I have my sights set on this elevated style from Arket. Details like the dropped waist and neutral hue add to the overall premium feel.
If you like your classic wardrobe staples with a twist, look to this trench coat in a fresh light greige and oversize silhouette.
COS
Swing Crossbody in Leather
COS’s swing crossbody bag has been a favourite amongst fashion people since it first released, and now it’s available in a vibrant red shade.
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.
Arket
Short-Sleeved Maxi Dress
From the soft balloon sleeves to the ruched waist, every part of this Arket dress feels so premium. Wear casually with ballet flats, or elevate for wedding season with strappy heels.
COS
Rib-Knit V-Neck Waistcoat
I’ve spotted so many knitted waistcoats cropping up from high designer to high street, and this is the sleekest I’ve found.
H&M
Linen-Blend Pull-On Trousers
As we swap out heavy wool trousers for lighter linen styles for warmer days, these wide-leg trousers with a relaxed pull-on style should definitely be on your radar.
Mango
Asymmetrical Textured Top
From dinners to coffee dates, this textured top with a twist strap detail is sure to add instant polish to any outfit.
& 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.
Zara
Zw Collection Voluminous Midi Skirt
We keep spotting bubble hems all over street style and our Instagram feeds, and this Zara skirt offers an elegant way to tap into the trend.
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.
H&M
Linen-Blend Belted Trousers
H&M’s new-in section is full of sleek warm-weather pieces, but the cut and drape of these relaxed linen-blend trousers makes them a particular stand out.
COS
Wire-Frame Cat-Eye Sunglasses
I keep a pair of sunglasses with me all year round, and this refined style from COS is about to join my collection. The mix of gold hardware and tortoiseshell alongside the soft oval shape adds to the premium feel of this pair.
M&S Collection
Linen Blend Relaxed Single Breasted Blazer
Take a reliable blazer silhouette, add an airy linen fabrication and versatile neutral hue and you get this hardworking piece from M&S.
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.
Mango
Mesh Ballerinas With Buckle Strap
The mesh shoe trend is still going strong so expect to see these shoes paired with tailored trousers, midi skirts, jeans and more.
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.
& Other Stories
Tank Midi Dress
The elegant tank dress is one to rely on for years to come. Whilst the black is incredibly versatile, it also comes in a sunny yellow too.
Zara
Asymmetric Crossbody Bag
You can always rely on a rich cream shade to elevate a staple piece. Note the adjustable strap and interesting asymmetric shape that combine form and function.
Mango
Double-Button Trench Coat
I added a green trench coat to my collection three weeks ago, and I’ve worn it almost every day since.
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.
Layer over dresses, pair with tailoring, or go bold with a full denim look. This does come oversized, I went for a size XS and am a size 8 on top.
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.
It’s never too early to snap up premium-looking slides.
COS
Swing Crossbody Leather
Just when we thought COS’s famous crossbody couldn’t get any chicer, they go and bring out this khaki green version.
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