The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
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:
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.
Shop More Expensive-Looking High-Street Items:
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.
This knit swiftly sold out in the original blush colourway, but I have a feeling the rich-looking camel iteration will be even more popular.
Brown boots are selling out all over the high street, so I suspect this John Lewis pair will follow suit. The kitten heel feels so current whilst the pointed toe bestows them with a timeless quality.
Seriously, no one will believe this cost you less than £40. I'm also tempted by the cream version.
A very chic dress that will work for daytime and evening with a simple swap of shoes and outerwear.
I know I'll get lots of wear out of this top over the next couple of months; it's the perfect way to dress up jeans.
& Other Stories always delivers when it comes to tailoring, and these trousers are next on my wish list.
I have a winter wedding coming up, and I've ordered this dress for the occasion.
It's time to add coats into our outfit rotations, and this elegant scarf style is sure to bring a premium edge to any look.
With the architectural heel, curved edge and square toe finish, it's seriously hard to believe this pair of boots are only £65.
Trust me when I saw Marks & Spencer's outerwear collection is so strong this season, and the first thing I'll be adding to basket it this deep burgundy faux leather jacket.
Thanks to Zara, the little black dress has been officially replaced with the asymmetric midi. The gathered fabric brings a softness to the dress that can easily be styled for day or night.
Aligne ensures that even knitwear is a standout piece. Note the nipped waist to celebrate your silhouette, accented by the perfectly placed buttons.
When it comes to excellent denim, you can always rely on Free People to have the trending cuts. Right now, it's all about the barrel-leg silhouette, and this pair comes in 20 colours and washes.
If you want to look put together whilst remaining seriously cosy, a knitted co-ord should be on your radar. Bring a touch of sunshine to the everyday with this soft lemon duo. Shop the skirt here.
Not only is this bag so sleek, but also seriously practical. Slide onto your shoulder, or adjust the strap to wear crossbody.
A burgundy trench coat has been on my wish list for a long time, and Topshop's style has a pebbled texture to the faux leather that feels seriously high end.
Leopard print has returned in a big way for autumn, and this deep tones of this sleek skirt make it easy to style for day or night.
Every single bag on my wish list right now has one expensive-looking detail in common: suede. With a soft brown shade and striking east-west silhouette, this is a bag fashion people are sure to snap up quickly.
Mango offers extra refinement to the leather-look jacket with this minimalist style. Note the pockets integrated into the design to keep the streamlined silhouette, and it comes with a detachable sheepskin collar for a warm touch when winter arrives.
Fabrics are an easy way to bring an expensive feel to your outfits, and these satin trousers from COS will bring an elevated polish whilst remaining seriously comfortable thanks to the elastic waist and wide-leg silhouette.
Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.
Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.
Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.
When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.
Emily is currently on maternity leave.
- Florrie AlexanderActing Affiliates Editor
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