If there's one preconception that most people have about fashion editors, it's that we all live in designer clothing. As much as I would love to wake up each morning and have a wardrobe full of Chanel, Prada and Gucci to choose from, the reality is that not only does my bank account not support my lofty dreams, but also that the quality of the high-street is at an all time high, and there's simply no need to spend £500 on a plain white tee when I know exactly where to get an excellent one for £25.
And, therein lies the secret. As it's our job to know the new-in sections like the back of our hands, after years of tried and tested research, industry insiders have a list of reliable go-tos for just about everything. I know for example if I want to find a great dress, I'm heading for H&M first. Jeans? It's got to be Zara. Comfortable, fashion-forward shoes? Only Marks and Spencer. But, if you're looking for premium quality and luxe design, there are three high-street stores that influencers, editors and even designers have come to rely on for the very best in affordable clothing–COS, & Other Stories, and Mango.
Liv wears & Other Stories' large leather tote (£125).
A cursory scroll through my Instagram feed reveals a tally of around 70% of all of the outfits I saw featuring at least one element from the big three, proving COS, & Other Stories and Mango's status as the bonafide style trinity. That textured jacket you thought was designer? Likely it was Mango. The jumpers, wide-leg trousers and wool coats that everyone rushes to buy in the new year are always from & Other Stories, and the suede bowling bag you've been spotting everywhere? Yep, COS.
The High-Street Brands That Fashion People Really Shop From:
The Best New-In Pieces From COS:
A gorgeous outer layer for various looks.
This cardigan will look so cool paired with poplin skirts this season.
I love how COS jeans always have an elevated silhouette.
Ballet flats continue to be a key style for 2025, especially in a trending fabric like suede.
A dark denim dress can be styled for work and the weekend.
If you haven't bought a COS bowling bag yet, this is your sign.
The perfect year-round jacket.
COS is my go-to for simple tees—be warned, they sell out quickly!
A beautiful knit mini dress is a cold weather must-have.
Suede trainers aren't going anywhere.
I can't believe this is a high street piece.
The Best New-In Pieces From & Other Stories:
The kind of coat no one would guess was from the high street.
A quality midi that can easily be dressed up or down.
A beautifully soft, versatile tote.
The chicest pumps on the high street right now.
When it comes to knitwear, & Other Stories does some of the best on the high street.
I love the fit of these trousers.
Doesn't this look so expensive?
I love the idea of this cardigan with indigo denim and flats.
The classic jeans that feel so fresh.
Pleated skirts have become a staple in every fashion person's wardrobe.
Suede loafers are going nowhere in 2025.
The Best New-In Pieces From Mango:
The fit and finish of this dress is seriously premium.
The very definition of an elevated basic.
So chic.
The styling possibilities are endless.
This shade looks so expensive.
A designer-looking knit without the price tag.
The flowy silhouette is so flattering.
You don't need to splash out on designer clothing to look like you're in the know.
Wear with flare-kick jeans or a denim mini skirt.
This entire look is straight out of the Nineties.
A bag style that I'll always come back to.
These are at the top of my wish list.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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