Throughout her career, Emma Willis has always stuck to a capsule wardrobe built on elevated basics. And she does this because she's got a knack for making high-street pieces look expensive. This week, she launched her first collection for Next, which is an arsenal of reliable and elevated basics for under £100 that all aim to make getting dressed a little easier.
"I have always been a classic dresser," Willis says of her style. "I have never had much confidence with trends—I've always been scared of them and don't go anywhere near them. I stick to classic and simple, because that's what works for me."
"It looks like it all makes sense together, as it's pieces that I love and that are really wearable for all ages and everyone. It's not offensive; it's just easy to wear," explains Willis of her no-fuss designs. "I spoke to lots of different people, including my mum, as she's a different generation to me, and my little sister who is 13 years younger. You want to do something that has broad appeal and will suit different demographics and ages."
The £65 blazers and £45 wide-leg trousers look far more expensive than they are and won't date quickly, so what's the secret to making affordable pieces seem more luxurious? "You need a good cut and a good fabric—you want it to feel nice," says Willis.
She continues, "Those are the two things that make something looks expensive. We looked at a lot of fabrics and so many checks. You think it'd be easy, as there's a world of fabrics out there, but it can be like a needle in a haystack to find the one that is right. Buttons are also such a nightmare (who knew?!). It's the little details I really didn't think about before, but you have to pick and approve everything, and I want to make sure everything is 100% right."
Keep scrolling to see the standout pieces from Emma Willis's collection for Next.
1. Checked Suit
2. Wide-Leg Trousers
3. Basic Tops
Related: Summer 2019 Fashion Trends: Looks You Need to Know
4. Blazers
5. Navy Halter Top
Next up, see our guide to the key trends for spring/summer 2019.
