I am a firm believer in investing in beautiful pieces for your wardrobe that will not only bring you joy but also last you from season to season. When we think of investment buys, it's often items with a large price tag that come to mind, as well as classically chic designers such as Celine, Totême and The Row, to name a few. These brands are well-known for their timeless cuts and shapes, and they tend to stick to a muted colour palette, too. While I can appreciate the beauty of such pieces, as you may well already know, my style is far from minimalist, so for me, an investment buy isn't always restricted to a beautifully cut black blazer or camel coat. I believe investment pieces can be statement pieces, too, which is why some of my most stand-out dresses and bags are also some of my oldest and most loved.
Said pieces don't need to break the bank, either. How we invest in our wardrobes is of course relative to each of us as individuals, and premium pieces you'll love forever can most certainly be found on the high street, too, which is a blessing for those of us who can't always stretch to The Row price points, right?
Over the years, I have picked up some essential tips on what to look out for when searching for those expensive-looking gems that are affordable, too. Each season, I always look out for certain pieces on the great British high street that I know are versatile winners, such as sequinned blazers and dresses, simple leather trousers and elevated jewellery. Then, I head to the brands that I know really excel in each area. If you’re looking for designer-style coats that are a bit friendlier on your wallet, my go-to is Mango or Massimo Dutti. When it comes to premium party wear, & Other Stories always delivers. Whenever I wear Zara jewellery, I always get asked where it’s from. And finally, Arket is guaranteed to be at the top of my wish list for footwear forever more.
With all this in mind, I knew I had to bring the changing rooms to you and try on the best on the high street right now. So I headed out to see what was in store and cherry-picked the most expensive-looking pieces I could find. Enjoy!
1. Mango Faux-Shearling Jacket
Style Notes: Faux-shearling jackets can be a bit hit-or-miss, but when I saw this Mango one in-store, I quickly picked one up to try on. Now, trust me when I say that the imagery on the Mango website really doesn't do it justice, because it is completely amazing. Mango has somehow managed to get the outer fabric to look like real leather (it is faux), and I sized up to an XL to get that oversized high-end biker jacket look. I'm in love!
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I haven't liked a high-street jacket this much in a long time.
2. & Other Stories Floral Dress
Style Notes: I haven't bought a floral dress in a while, as lately, I've struggled to find one that would work through the winter and didn't require a cardigan or extra layer. Enter this gorgeous long-sleeved pink number. This floral dress from & Other Stories fits like a glove and has a beautiful ruched detail and a devoré fabric. Dress it up or down depending on your plans this season.
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I find & Other Stories sizing varies quite a lot, but on this occasion, I'm wearing a UK 14/EU 40, and it fits perfectly.
3. H&M Padded Gilet
Style Notes: There's something so chic about an oversized gilet. Plus, it's a great styling piece to add some interest to an everyday look such as an oversized-knit-and-leggings combo. I loved the shape and belt detail of this one.
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The elasticated belt ensures it nips in at the waist to create a flattering silhouette and that it's comfortable to wear.
4. Zara Crystal Boots
Style Notes: I actually can't believe these boots are from the high street. The finish is really impressive, and they're pretty comfortable to walk in, too. With the festive season just around the corner, these are bound to work hard for you! A pair of boots like this will also get a lot of mileage in your existing wardrobe, helping to add a touch of sparkle to even the simplest of looks.
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As with anything fabulous at Zara, if you want to get your hands on a pair, you better be quick.
5. COS Cashmere Jumper
Style Notes: I have to admit I have been almost obsessively scouring the high street for the best cashmere this season, as I always feel the cold and want to invest in knitwear that will last for more than a season. What I've learnt on my travels is this: The store that comes out on top, every time, is COS. They're still an investment at just under £200, but the weight and thickness of the cashmere are unrivalled at this price point. This beige colour is timeless.
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This boxy shape works well tucked into the front of your trousers or worn loose over some split-hem leggings.
6. Marks and Spencer Puffer Jacket
Style Notes: I've spied quite a few gems in Marks and Spencer this season, and this puffer is no exception. Just because it's not black doesn't mean it isn't a classic either. Wear this apple green with nearly every other colour in your winter wardrobe.
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My only bug bear is how fitted it is, so I tried on a size 16 to get that oversized look.
7. Massimo Dutti Knitted Dress
Style Notes: As one of the few high-street stores catering to a customer looking for a more elevated style, Massimo Dutti is killing it this season. I have mentioned its coats and footwear in the past, but I also absolutely love this knitted dress in buttery yellow. I'll wear it with knee-high boots or heels and a clutch bag.
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Style with white or metallic knee-high boots.
SHOP MY OTHER FAVOURITE EXPENSIVE-LOOKING HIGH-STREET BUYS
I love a knitted co-ord. They make getting dressed a breeze with only your accessories to worry about. I love the minimal lines and A-line sleeve of this one from H&M.
The high street is so good at sequins. I love the clean lines and high neck on this dress. It's a very grown-up and modern way of wearing sequins. Party season is around the corner, so if you want one, it won't be in stock for long.
This season, the high street has definitely upped its game when it comes to leather footwear, particularly knee-high boots. These definitely sit at the top end of the high-street price bracket, but such a classic shape with an easy-to-walk in heel like this is worth the investment.
Mango outerwear is fast becoming my go-to on the high street. Everything about this coat is perfection, including the creamy camel colour and the stiff wool fabric that creates this sharp silhouette. Shall I go on?
This dress is pretty simple at the front, but the voluminous sleeves and tie back aren't commonly found at this price point, and this burgundy is super chic too.
Arket definitely fills a gap in the market for expensive-looking leather handbags for under £300. The minimal branding and leather buckle on this shoulder bag sold it for me.
Vegan leather isn't easy to get right, as it's deceivingly expensive to produce. M&S has got it bang on with this leather-look blazer. The shape and slightly matte finish really stand out.
The new Zara Studio Collection has just landed, and it really is trying to bankrupt me. The brand always has its finger on the pulse, and considering the increased following for designers such as Khaite and Totême, its put together a collection that you could easily mistake for designer. This knitted dress is my favourite.
Karen Millen has really found its niche in the market, and it is definitely the go-to for high-glam occasionwear right now. This sequin blazer is pretty major and has matching trousers if you dare.
I'm a bit of a magpie for conversation-starting pieces, and the corsage detailing on this dress is incredible. I don't have anywhere to go in this dress right now, but will it stop me buying it? No.
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