The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
![Expensive Looking High Street](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/C7y4ffSYUeShXEC2x9xFTL-1280-80.jpg)
Finding high-street buys that look like designer is my hidden talent. Keep scrolling to see my top picks this week.
We all want to look like our most polished selves, don’t we? Whilst, sadly, I can't provide you with a week at a spa or an endless allowance to spend at The Row, I can 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 items to elevate your wardrobe without the designer price tag, and to make it easy for you to pinpoint the bits 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 also a lot to sift through in order to find them. That’s where I come in. As a Who What Wear UK editor, I scroll new-in sections as a hobby, and can spot an expensive-looking, luxe-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 that everything is here because I believe it offers great value for your wardrobe and your pocket.
I hope this edit helps save you time and money as you build a collection 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:
Spring is on the horizon, and if you're looking for a sleek jacket to transitional your wardrobe into the milder months, COS's contemporary cropped cape should be on your radar.
An elegant top that will elevate evening looks will always be a smart addition, especially when it's made from 100% mulberry silk.
Our editors have already sung the praises of M&S's striking palazzo trousers, and now the beloved style comes in a buttery cream shade just in time for the brighter days.
If you're wondering what the next big shoe trend for 2025 will be, meet the Driving loafer. The comfort and polish of a classic loafer remains with a nautical edge with lace detailing, and this pair with a suede finish and soft brown shade feel extremely premium.
This recently joined my own wardrobe, and I have to say I've had so many compliments on it already. The classic black cardigan design is endlessly easy to style, and the elevated edge of a longline shape and multi-button closure sets this apart from other staples.
Barrel-leg jeans have my full attention right now, and ASOS's deep indigo style with front seam details and contemporary hems are top of my wish list. I'm planning on wearing them with the matching denim jacket or the black knit above.
If you've had a scan of Zara's new-in section, you'll know that its accessories have stepped up to a whole new level. The piece I can't stop thinking about? The Split Suede Mini Tote bag. Not only does it look highly expensive, but also comes with a longer strap for various ways to wear.
A joy-inducing shade? Check. A practical style for the new season? Check. A faux leather finish for an added premium feel? Check.
If you're yet to add a pair of tailored trousers to your wardrobe, look to NA-KD's offering. With sharp multi pleats and a bold wide leg silhouette, this pair is sure to make any outfit feel high-end.
Shop More Expensive-Looking High-Street Items:
I'm dreaming of the days when I can go out in a single outer layer, and accompanying me into the warmer days will be this elegant trench coat. Light cream shades always have a way of feeling premium, and combined with the classic trench design and contrasting black buttons you're sure to feel put together in this.
Trust me when I say you're about to see this bag everywhere. Taking a striking east-west silhouette that rivals that of high designers and adding a supremely elevated brown suede finish, it's clear that JW Pei is on to a winner here.
My obsession with suede right now is far from over, and I predict that suede jackets are going to be big news through spring and well into autumn too. With a minimalist design and ease silhouette, expect M&S's version to move fast.
I recently dug deep into the key denim trends of 2025, and COS has clearly scanned the runways too. The deep indigo shade feels that touch more elevated than true blue, whilst the bold seam details bring a contemporary touch. Personally, I'm very into the full double denim look.
Burgundy shades continue to feel highly premium however we include them in our wardrobes. As someone who spends a lot of time in tailored trousers I just know Massimo Dutti's pair is destined to work for me, and look good doing it.
A few months ago I spotted a latte and white striped shirt just like this and immediately fell for its refined simplicity. At over £100 I didn't add that version to my basket, but with the same elevated feel and a very reasonable price tag I snapped this up in seconds.
Has anyone else noticed how strong Zara's shoe selection is right now? Of all the standouts I found along the way, this pair drew me in with a deep cherry shade, sweet buckle details for a '90s nod and a sleek kitten heel to finish.
The most recent purchase I've made is this longline cardigan from Nobody's Child. With the cosy appeal of a knit, an elegant round neckline and the longline silhouette that brings an extra touch of considered design, this is destined to be a key piece in my wardrobe for years.
If your outfit ever feels like it's not quite finished, look to accessories. A great belt or a chunky necklace can be all it takes to make a selection of clothes feel like a considered 'fit.
Whether you dress it up with heels and statement accessories or down with boots and a cashmere knit, this dress is guaranteed to be a chic addition to your wardrobe.
The colour, the super-soft suede, the slouchy shape... this is everything I could want from a bag and more.
Don't sleep on River Island's denim. These barrel-leg jeans are a sure sell-out.
Two of my fellow Who What Wear UK editors wore this knit to the office last week, and now the rest of us have followed suit.
I honestly thought these were designer when I saw them on the Mint Velvet website!
A chic belt is such an easy way to freshen up a classic look.
I just love the colour of these wool-blend suit trousers. Pair with the matching blazer or just a tank top.
H&M proves that sleek tailoring doesn't have to come with a sky-high price tag. The new-in section has smatterings of sharp pleats and cool oversized blazers, but the shade and fit of this one has seriously piqued my interest.
Elegant knitwear has a place in my wardrobe all year round, and I'll happily be making space for this soft brown number with striking button details.
As the silhouette of the moment, I've tried on a lot of barre-leg trousers recently and COS's soft cotton pair is one of my favourites.
I've spotted so many fashion people sporting brown suede blazer's recently, and finally I can call off the search for my own.
A bowling bag design with an elegant east-west shape also in a trending burgundy shade? What more could you want.
Knit dresses have worked hard in my winter wardrobe on the mornings when ten minutes is all I have to get ready. John Lewis brings an extra touch of considered design with the pleat details.
If you're readying your wardrobe for spring, or simply have been searching for the ultimate do-it-all barn coat, look. no further. Zara's longline version is ready to bring a contemporary edge to your wardrobe even through spring showers.
My classic white shirt has done overtime in my outfits recently, so I'm looking for something fresh for 2025. Welcome back gingham, which is about to be the print of the season, especially in a trending burgundy shade.
Now that the sleet and snow are behind us, I'm looking towards the brighter days, and readying my footwear selection in anticipation. First on my list is a pair of flat Mary Janes, and this pair brings a contrast of hardware and soft suede that feels unexpected and fresh for 2025.
We all know a great black blazer is a modern wardrobe staple, but if you're looking to add a serious touch of polish to the smart silhouette, look no further. With a structured shape, collarless design and sleek slit pockets, there's serious elegance to be found in every detail of this blazer.
Whilst loafers have always been a reliable shoe to have in any collection, the adoration for this particular flat footwear is on the rise. Easy to slip on, bringing instant polish to all looks from skirts to jeans to tailoring, and there's plenty of styles to choose from around right now. Personally, I'm focused on a paired-back design for a minimalist approach, and Zara's deep burgundy pair is all I can think about right now.
What brings me back to COS time after time is the considered approach it takes with each piece, and right now this cardigan sits at the top of my wish list. We all know the useful nature of a cardigan, working hard almost year round as a cosy light layer. Now, the brand brings a 2025 twist, with the revival of the sailor collar, which we've spotted over the runways and on the chicest fashion people too.
Anytime that I see a really chic black dress I take note, especially when it has day-to-night qualities like the one. The t-shirt sleeves offer a relaxed feel that can also rise to evening occasions, whilst the twist detail not only sets it apart from simpler styles, but is seriously flattering too.
Brown shades continue to draw me in, and a deep chocolate coat with a classic feel has been on my list for a while now. Finally, New Look has come through with a style that looks just as good worn open as worn belted.
If you've taken a peek at some of the most stylish people recently, you'll have noticed a new trouser cut is coming to the fore—the barrel. With the trending horseshoe-like shape and a fresh ecru shade, I can picture myself restyling this for every season.
If you're looking for an expensive-looking tote on the high street you could spend hours hunting one down, or take a peek at this smooth suede offering from Mango. With a spacious size, refined suede look and subtle stitching details, expect compliments when you wear this out.
Warm, refined and with an old money feel, the short sleeved knit is has been a key trend over the winter months, and one that will work hard in your spring wardrobe too. Nobody's Child offers a cosy alpaca wool blend option to bring a luxurious touch to the every day.
This is the kind of skirt you'd never guess what from the high street. Ready to take a simple t-shirt to all new heights, or accompany pretty tops for evening, the deep burgundy shade and coated finish will leave you wearing this on repeat.
A leather jacket is a wardrobe staple that so many fashion people swear by, and Abercrombie brings a fresh 2025 feel with this bomber style. The oversized fit and slouchy silhouette bring a contemporary feel whilst the brown shade feels seriously premium.
Anytime I feel like my outfits are feeling stale I look to a pop of red to breath new life into them. Right now, these slingback heels with 90's buckle detailing and comfortable kitten heel are destined to rejuvenate all my looks.
The collared knit has taken over from chunky jumpers as the elevated knitwear style to know about. With a deep camel shade, soft wool and alpaca blend composition and neat collar finish, this knit is sure to feature in outfit builds for work or play.
It's hard to narrow down my favourite piece from Massimo Dutti's latest collection, but this green dress is one I can't stop thinking about. The classic silhouette is endlessly versatile and can be styled for day with knee-high boots or evening with striking mules. The mixture of the fabrics also brings a high end feel to this dress.
The chilly winter winds have left me hunting for light layers to bolster the cosy factor of my looks, but if I want to stay chic whilst adding warmth, this H&M boucle jacket is ideal. Also, come Spring, I'll wear this as a light layer with a simple tank and jeans.
If you've spent the winter break lounging in loungewear and dread the idea of falling back into fitted silhouette, it's time to rejoice. Ultra wide leg silhouettes are key for 2025, and Topshop has proven it's still a master of denim with these bold 70s wide leg jeans.
A designer-looking shape, a refined suede finish, and a trending brown shade? This bag ticks all the boxes of expensive-looking styles that are destined to sell out fast.
If you've looked ahead to the spring trends, you'll have noticed that baby pink is about to return in a big way. Bring a sweet edge to winter looks and spring dressing alike with this soft-to-touch mohair knit vest.
The drizzle and sudden showers have inspired me to start the search for a great mac, and New Look's is a clear standout. The elevated feel of this jacket comes from the classic nature of the camel shade and silhouette, whilst the check trim and collar set it apart.
This knit immediately caught my eye for its classic stripes, cosy finish and mohair-blend fabrication. I'll be styling this with leather trousers, slip skirts, simple denim and more.
If your denim collection is calling out for a fresh update, look to bold barrel silhouettes like this pair.
M&S's winter collection has been incredibly strong, and the gems keep coming. Now, the brand offers an easy trucker style jacket in a playful animal print that is sure to be a best-seller.
Burgundy still has all my attention, and ASOS offers the trending shade in a seriously chic trench coat style that is sure to be worn repeatedly through the rest of winter and well into spring.
Sleek, refined and ready to be an elegant finishing touch to your looks.
I've spotted so may stylish people wearing short-sleeve jumpers this in winter, and Arket ups the ante with an alpaca wool finish.
Finding a dress that can work for both day and night is rare, but & Other Stories makes it look easy with this ruched-waist dress.
This blouse went immediately to the top of my wish list for so many reasons. First, it's incredibly chic, with the ruched top and bold shoulders. But what puts this over the top is its ability to be restyled, by removing the puff sleeves you'll find a sleek top with sweet bow detailing.
Finding expensive-looking handbags on the high street is one of my favourite pastimes. With a practical shape for essentials and more, a suede brown finish for elegance and gold stud details for an extra refined edge, this Mango bag has definitely joined the list.
With the adoration of scarf detailing, capes have risen in popularity this season, and as a classic accent to any look, this is a piece you'll call upon every winter. With one look at this monochromatic look you can consider me convinced.
Of all the blouses on my wish list (and there's quite a selection right now) Massimo's gathered style is currently at the top. With a boho feel and textured edge, this is the nice top you'll want to accompany your jeans, tailoring and skirts through winter, spring and beyond.
I've been waiting for the Calla tote to return and finally it's back in stock. With a sleek hexagonal shape, plenty of room for essentials (and more), and three sleek colourways to choose from, it's hard to believe this is a high street find.
A waisted cardigan is one of my most worn winter items, and & Other Stories offers this very sleek option. Taking a trending deep brown shade, a striking waisted silhouette, and a wrap closure finished with a metal button, this is destined to be a new best-seller for the brand.
As so many of my outfits rely on jeans I'm always looking out for new ways to add fresh life into my denim collection, and Hush's subtle stripe details set this pair apart.
I still can't believe that these refined boots are only £38. With a square toe, smooth brown shade and a very wearable heel, I predict these will move quickly.
A few months ago our beauty editor wore a very similar faux suede jacket and I knew it was something that would compliment my wardrobe with minimal effort. Naturally, as soon as I saw Zara's version it went straight in my basket. The hard part is choosing between burgundy, brown and black.
Has anyone else noticed how strong Marks & Spencer's collection is right now? Case in point, these wide-leg trousers. With a satin-like finish that brings a touch of polish, and bold silhouette, this is a pair you can dress up or down for day or night.
I recently discovered this brand on ASOS and now almost my entire wish list is full of Gina Tricot pieces. If you're yet to add a timeless coat to your wardrobe that can easily pair with black, navy and brown shades along with bold colours, look no further.
Expensive-looking, practical and highly chic—H&M has outdone itself with this tote bag.
This party season I'm looking for pieces that can be worn for evening throughout the year, and a top with a striking neckline ticks all the boxes. Plus, the wool fabric brings a cosy edge to this incredibly elegant piece.
Whistles is known for anti-trend styles that will work hard in your wardrobe for years, and I know that no matter the year this look will make an impact. Pair the sleek skirt with a white shirt, sweet blouse or the matching knit.
A few months ago I tried on a similar leopard print coat at Mango, which swiftly sold out. With a refined a-line shape, tonal shades that will easily blend with all my staples and an elegant funnel neckline, I won't miss out on a great buy this time.
A burgundy shade, a comfortable kitten heel and a croc-effect texture? I've officially fallen for these boots.
Arket knows all about polished pieces that look triple their price, and this wool-blend overshirt is no exception. Take your favourite neutrals further by layering in this tweed-like jacket.
I've been wearing satin trousers on repeat this winter, paired with a simple knit for day or elevated for evening with a nice top (see the COS option above). With a soft drape and seriously refined shade, these might just join my wardrobe.
A black dress may not be the most groundbreaking piece around, but when it's done this well and at only £23, it's worth talking about. The drape detail is a feature we've seen in many designer collections recently, making this feel incredibly luxe whilst being incredibly affordable.
Sleek, elegant and under £100? It's no surprise that this chic coat has already sold out once. Now, it's back in stock.
Monochromatic looks always have a premium feel to them, and a light beige skirt in a classic shape is a reliable piece to instantly elevate your looks.
Deep brown, soft suede and enough room for all your essentials? This bag does it all. And has already made its way onto my wish list.
Cosy season is upon us, but finding knitwear that feels more elevated than simple is rare. Enter River Island's asymmetric button cardigan in winter's trending shade.
I've long been a fan of COS's denim, and the latest addition to its collection features a contemporary wide-leg silhouette, ready to be dressed up with boots, or worn casually with trainers.
If your boots have been working overtime, look to a refined flat. Massimo Dutti brings a fresh edge with a cow print effect that fashion people are adoring right now. Simply, they're chic and comfortable.
I'm not the only one whose noticed that Zara's outerwear collection is full of designer-passing pieces this winter. The latest piece to catch my eye is this burgundy wool cape with scarf detailing that brings an added premium feel.
I'm always enamoured by Damson Madder's offerings but its shirts might be my favourite. With intricate embroidery, playful oversized and doubled up collars and a timeless gingham print, I expected this to be at least double the price.
I've recently been focused on affordable jewellery that isn't just the staple pieces of hoops and chain necklaces, and & Other Stories has filled all my jewellery box dreams. Add these sculptural earrings to any look to bring a refined finish.
I've spotted so many fashion people wearing suede jackets this season, but I've been holding out for the perfect one. From smooth faux suede fabrics to the perfect caramel shade, this ticks all the boxes.
An easy way for a simple item to become spectacular is by switching up details, like buttons. With a very Schiaparelli feel with mixed design metallic buttons, I have a feeling this cardigan will move quickly.
With the styling versatility of jeans and cold-weather texture of velvet, this is exactly how to bring white shades into winter.
I've got a black version of this pair and they've become my most worn shoe. The square-toe looks so chic peeping out under tailored trousers or wide-leg jeans and this burgundy shade is sure to elevate them even further.
I'm not much of a sequin girl, so this party season I've been hunting down great prints, and came across this highly chic Mango dress. I can see this styled with flat knee-high boots for a work look or taken to evening with mules and a clutch bag.
Trust & Other Stories to take simplicity and make it so much more. This simple black long-sleeve top features twisted details bringing texture and and dimension whilst still being incredibly wearable.
If there's one brand that consistently offers up excellent handbags with serious staying power, its COS. Meet the latest addition, the Eastside Bowling Bag, destined to be as in demand as the brand's Studio Bowling Bag.
If you still haven't added a barn jacket to your collection, take this as your sign! With classic cord details on the collar and cuffs as well as bold patch front pockets, I have a feeling this will become a best-seller.
I've never taken the time to explore Massimo Dutti's jewellery, and now I've seen their seriously chic selection, I highly regret not knowing about it earlier. There are so many refined pieces with a contemporary edge, like this abstract teardrop bracelet.
Scarf coats have all my attention this season, and the deep navy shade and minimalist shape of Zara's version feels endlessly premium.
Party season is upon us, and I've been searching for the perfect outfit that doesn't feel to dressed up, but still seriously chic. This co-ord is the answer.
Whilst I may be a minimalist, even I'm drawn to the playful feel of a touch of animal print. I'll be wearing these with tailored trousers, jeans, dresses and more, this season and well beyond.
I've spotted to many stylish people wearing knitted vests in the cold weather. With a neutral shade and classic cable-knit details, this will be easy to add into my outfit rotations.
I haven't stopped thinking about the drape on this pair. They definitely live up to the 'fluid' name.
Whether you want to take your day time looks further or up to ante at night, a bold cuff bracelet is an easy way to make the simplest looks feel highly considered.
Boho styles are back to stay, and with sweet tiers, bold flounce sleeves and a very 2024 burgundy shade, this dress has all my attention.
Every top on my wish list features an interesting neckline right now, and Arket's top selection is the best it's ever been.
The grey winter skies have me calling out for a splash of colour, and Topshop's vibrant leather coat has all the impact I'm looking for.
The nipped waist and wide sleeves give this simple cardigan a high-end finish.
Party season is on the horizon, and a day-to-night gingham dress with sweet bow details is everything I've ever wanted.
Almost flat boots with the impact of a heeled boot? Yes, please.
No matter the season, a sleek skirt with intricate details that make it feel more expensive than it is will always go straight in my basket.
From scarf blouses to satin shirts, refined tops are big news this winter and Arket's draped neck top is one of the best I've found. Just wait until you see the back.
Knitwear is back as a key part of our daily uniforms. If you're looking to break away from classic crew or V-neck styles, or want a cosy piece that can take on the cooler evenings, look to an off-the-shoulder style in a timeless shade.
As someone who wears denim almost every day, I'm always looking for something a little different. I've already got colourful jeans and printed styles in my arsenal, but this boucle pair is unlike anything I've ever seen before.
Zara's shoulder bag has a distinctly vintage feel with is elongated shape and strap detailing.
Our calendars are already filling up with Christmas parties, winter weddings and other celebrations. To prepare, look to an elegant dress that is so refined you'll want to rewear it over and over again.
Take the polished edge of a boxy cardigan and add a sumptuous cashmere finish and you're officially ready to tackle to drop in temperatures in style.
I always find myself turning to darker, rich tones during the winter months, and these cream trousers bring the perfect addition of lightness to add a fresh feel.
I can't be the only one who's noticed how strong Marks & Spencer's outerwear collection has been this year. Bringing a playful edge to the winter months, the brand offers this bold animal print coat with a soft finish.
Zara has been teasing the arrival of this sleek burgundy bag for weeks, and finally I can add it to my basket. There's plenty of room for your essentials and the elevated shade is sure to go with all your looks.
Arket knows all about understated pieces that will prove their worth over many years, and this jacket is one such piece.
So many of our editors have fallen for this sleek co-ord, ready to make deciding what to wear that much easier. Whilst I adore this soft brown colourway, it also comes in a 5 other shades.
A striking shade, a bold square-toe and an architectural heel—I have a feeling this pair will sell out very quickly. Especially as there's a very Prada feel to them.
Elegant, minimalist and ready to pair with jeans, skirts, tailoring and more.
Sharp shoulders, a straight cut and a timeless silhouette—this is the kind of coat you'll reach for year after year.
For dinner dates or cocktail hour, a "nice" top with a wintery edge is the perfect companion for jeans, tailoring and skirts. COS offers this refined off-the-shoulder style in both cream and black.
Our straight-leg jeans have been benched for the time being as wide-leg silhouettes take centre stage. Dive into the cut with M&S's bold palazzo style.
A trending shade? Check. A comfortable flat sole? Check. A fashion-forward edge? Check. This pair ticks so many boxes that it's even harder to believe they're from the high street.
Looking at all the designer bags of the moment, there's a clear design detail they all share—the east-west silhouette.
The scarf-knit trend is one I'm predicting will stick around for years thanks to its cool yet classic appeal, and Topshop ups the ante with a striking asymmetric button closure.
If you're looking for a reliable piece to bring a touch of polish to even the simplest outfits, this tweed jacket in deep red is ready to rise to the challenge.
Take the '90s buckle motif and add a bold east-west silhouette and you get River Island's striking clutch bag. With a removable strap for various ways to wear, this is ideal for daily jaunts and evenings out.
One exciting part of winter dressing is the mix of fabrics we get to play with, and these soft, highly elegant velvet trousers will instantly breathe new life into your looks.
From parties to winter weddings, & Other Stories' elegant draped dress is one you'll want to rewear all season long and well beyond.
Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her top-selling column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily interned at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she managed the fashion team and travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
- Florrie AlexanderShopping Editor
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFW
Let's dive in.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
I Just Got Back From Europe, and Now, I Want to Shop These Trends From H&M, Nordstrom, and J.Crew
Think effortless elegance.
By Caitlin Burnett
-
My Goal in 2025 Is to Look Elegant, Effortless, and Classy—47 Sale Finds That Nail the Brief
Deep discounts from Aritzia, Mango, J.Crew, and Banana Republic right this way.
By Judith Jones
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears Today
A true fashion icon.
By Judith Jones
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% Classic
Just as you are.
By Drew Elovitz
-
I Already Failed My 2025 No-Buy—36 Under-$100 H&M Finds That Look Triple the Price
Miu Miu, Khaite, and Prada are all on the menu.
By Ana Escalante
-
I'm a Fussy Shopping Editor—30 Expensive-Looking H&M Winter Items I'd Actually Buy
This is big for me.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Talk About Great Timing: My Friend Told Me Her Favorite Jeans Are From Mango, and Now, They're on Sale
I'm in my lucky girl era.
By Nikki Chwatt