The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week

Bold, elegant and sure to turn heads—this H&M dress went straight in my basket. The tank dress has become a modern classic in recent years, and the high neckline and drop waist of this dress exude elegance from every angle.

It takes serious design expertise for a high street brand to create a high-end looking handbag, and yet Zara makes it look easy. There's a vintage look to this east-west city bag, from the trapeze silhouette to the crackled tan material. For summer, autumn and beyond, this is a bag that will move through the seasons with you.

This blazer honestly stopped me in my tracks. During a recent try-on I spotted this sleek blazer, and with a nipped waist and elevated cream shade, I still can't believe it's only £20.

Zara has spent the summer outdoing itself with every new release, and this week's latest influx is full of standout styles too. Personally, I can't stop thinking about this easy off-the-shoulder top that has a naturally laid-back look, which I want to embrace all summer long. Pair with the matching shorts, or mix and match with skirts and trousers in your wardrobe.

Whilst I wish every day was a heatwave, the British weather has been reminding us that summer includes cooler moments. On grey or rainy days, a reliable denim jacket is one you'll want to have close to hand, and Aligne's newest offering could easily pass for a designer style. Add to your basket now, and also prepare your wardrobe for autumn's arrival.

The first thing to catch my eye was the drape of these trousers. The wide-leg, languid silhouette feels endlessly polished, and paired with the soft khaki shade, this feels like a real gem.

Over the weekend I tried this pair on and they immediately joined my summer capsule wardrobe. Bringing a seasonal edge to the classic ballet flat with a woven design, this pair is not only incredibly chic but also incredibly comfortable too.

It's the small details that can set a high street piece apart from the rest, and the sweet shoulder detail of this Mango top brings the elegant touch that makes it look high-end.

Massimo Dutti has a way of making the most simple pieces the most coveted, and right now it's this crisp white skirt that has all my attention. With a classic pencil silhouette, hemp blend fabric and understated design, this is a piece I can see myself restyling throughout the seasons (and the year).

This pretty butter yellow dress is already on its way to me as we speak. Won over by the delicate shade, the dropped waist silhouette and scoop back, I'm already planning all the ways I'll wear this dress. First with tan accessories for an elevated day look, and then metallic accents for an upcoming wedding.

I'm looking to take my top collection up a notch this season, and silhouette is the first update I'll be making. Enter, this draped chocolate brown style from Massimo Dutti. Destined to bring a polished edge to everything from jeans to floaty summer skirts.

Speaking of floaty summer skirts, my white midi has been my most-worn item so far this season. If you're searching for a style that isn't see-through, has an a-line silhouette, and pockets, Zara has you covered. Whilst it's minimalist in style, take note of the sweet trim finish.

My weather app is showing a series of cooler days, and whilst I want to be ready for the weather, I still want a summery feel. A sleek co-ord feels like the perfect antidote to cooler days, especially in a denim fabric. This sleek strapless top will bring a chic edge to any pairing, including with the matching jeans.

Mark my words: this is the high street bag everyone will be carrying come autumn, and I'm getting mine before it sells out. If you were a fan of the brand's Studio Bowling Bag, you'll know this will move fast. With smooth suede, an autumnal shade and spacious interior, you'd never guess this was a high street buy.

It's officially a polka-dot summer, and Nobody's Child's latest collection offers up one of the sleekest dresses I've seen. The one-shoulder design paired with the sweeping maxi silhouette has primed this dress to be my go-to for all dressier occasions this summer (and beyond).

Looking to add a high-quality linen shirt to your wardrobe? I recommend With Nothing Underneath. A brand that focuses on excellent shirt offers light linen styles in an array of colours, but this new hunter green is my personal favourite.

I've been looking for a more sophisticated sandal to take over from my flip-flops, and Mango's pair ticks all the boxes. Whilst minimalist in design, the metallic toe brings a refined and eye-catching finish to this pair. For smarter days in the office or evening dressing, consider this chic pair.

Elegant swimwear doesn't have to cost three-figures, as & Other Stories proves. Textured swimsuits can be spotted on stylish people every single year, and this one is both timeless and elevated in equal measure.

Even though M&S took a short hiatus, it kept up with the trending styles of summer 2025. Now, the summer collection is here, and I predict this elegant drop waist dress will be one of the first to sell out.

I'm still infatuated with the rise of the polka dot print this year, and this top is one that I will be dressing down with simple jeans, or elevating for evening with tailored trousers or shorts. The matching accessory is also a really considered touch.

If you're looking for a pretty skirt with intricate details and an elegant silhouette, look no further. Mint Velvet brings a precise approach to pintuck pleats, creating a drop-waist silhouette that continues to be the elegant shape of the season. Pair with a simple tank top and slides, or take to evening with a silk cami and mules.

I live in flip-flops in the summer months, and this year I've been searching for something a little more elevated than my classic rubber pairs. Enter COS's leather flip-flops, crafted from 100% smooth leather and currently offered in three elegant shades: burgundy, red and black.

I recently stopped someone in the street wearing this dress to ask where it was from. Of course, I immediately headed to Mango to make it mine. The LBD has been a capsule wardrobe hero for decades, and Mango brings an expensive-looking feel to this style with thin straps, a pleated bodice and 100% cotton composition.

With another heatwave underway, I'm slowly building up my linen collection, but only with polished-looking pieces. Zara's striped linen-blend trousers hit all the marks with a soft silhouette, classic stripes and an elevated colourway.

If you didn't see our social media editor, Megan, wear this dress on Live Shopping, you need to check it out. The crinkled bodice fits neatly to the body, flowing into a soft a-line skirt which is primed to be a go-to for the summer months. The colour is a standout, though it does come in a series of other colourways and prints that are worth exploring too. The blue shade looks great with all neutrals, especially deep browns, like the handbag below.

Finishing off our outfits with polish and practicality is the Whistles Crochet Shoulder Bag. The textural update is perfect for the summer months, bringing a touch of contrast to our cotton and linen pieces, and the deep brown shade is innately elegant. The bag is surprisingly roomy, and will move with you from daytime coffee dates to dressier evening moments.

As the print of the season, I've been looking for more ways to incorporate polka dots into my wardrobe and Nobody's Child's slip skirt is one of the chicest options I've found. The knee length is incredibly elevated, and I'm already planning on all the tops I can pair with this sweet skirt. Frilly blouses, simple tank tops, easy T-shirts...

COS knows that simple pieces done well can be incredibly impactful, and this halterneck dress proves it. The neckline is elegant from both the front and back, with an elasticated back panel for comfort and the perfect fit. The slight drop waist of the skirt feels incredibly contemporary too. The hard part is choosing between the classic black and this deep red shade.

My white shirt has been working overtime this summer as a light outer layer and beach cover-up. Now, I'm giving it some time off and letting Mango's elevated deep brown version take over.

I've been waiting patiently for Anthropologie's Nola bag to be restocked, and finally it's happened! The designer look of this bag is undeniable, and paired with the 100% leather composition, it's destined to be your go-to elevated bag every summer. Plus, it's handmade.

We recently featured this in our Live Shopping event, and after being up close with the top I knew I had to share it here. Free People brings its innate boho aesthetic to this pretty blouse with delicate lacework, sweet front ties and pretty balloon-sleeves. Wear with your favourite denim shorts, or bring a touch of contrast with tailoring.

If you're looking for a way to make denim shorts outfits feel more polished, this pair is your answer. The longer length brings an elegant edge to classic denim shorts, plus the fringe belt is a chic finishing touch. Pair with ballet flats, retro trainers or minimalist sandals this summer.

Whistles has been excelling in co-ords recently, but this elegant set might just be my favourite yet. Pair these crisp-cut tailored trousers with the matching waistcoat for an instantly put-together look, or wear separately with your capsule wardrobe basics. Plus, both pieces are made from 100% linen, making them lightweight and airy.

Let Massimo Dutti's bold red sandals bring a pop of colour to your staple summer neutrals. Crafted from smooth leather with a vibrant red shade and comfortable insole, this is a pair I'll be reaching for any time my outfits need rejuvenating.

One of Free People's best-selling dresses, the Oasis, is back in stock in a flurry of shades. The easy cotton dress is primed to take on the warmest days, and the smocked bodice ensures it fits neatly to the body. Voluminous sleeves and a ruffled neckline bring a sweet edge to the dress. Already, it's proved to be a timeless addition to any wardrobe.

Instead of a simple tank top, this summer I'm bringing a romantic edge to my looks with pretty tops just like this one. I've had a few expensive styles on my wish list, but this J. Crew style has all the markings of a designer piece.

Balancing comfort and style is a hard feat, by Massimo Dutti's trousers make it look incredibly easy. The cool green shade brings an elevated feel to the elasticated silhouette, plus the linen blend fabric is primed for the warmest days.

Topshop's sunny yellow bag stopped me in my tracks. Even as a minimalist, accessories are where I play with colour and the summery shade is complimented by the high-end east-west silhouette that so many designer brands are making this season.

New styles have launched at ASOS's Arrange collection, and whilst it was hard to narrow down my favourite, this dress came out as the winner. So far, I've been impressed by the brand's tailoring, and the delicate pleats paired with the a-line skirt create a seriously elegant silhouette.

Shirts are a staple in our wardrobes all year round, and already this summer I've found them to be one of my most worn pieces. Whilst a classic white shirt is incredibly versatile, I'm looking for something a little different, and H&M's elevated set is exactly what I've been searching for.

I'll be honest, I've overlooked flip-flops over the past few years in favour of bolder sandals, but after a few stylish people reminded me of how chic and understated they are, my hunt began. Looking for something a little more special than my classic Havaianas, Free People have come through with this stud-look pair which feel a little more considered.

COS excels in an understated style that somehow still packs a punch. With a timeless design, open back and serious designer appeal, this went straight in my basket.

The hottest days are calling for us to show a little leg, and the elegant way to bring shorts back into your wardrobe is with a longline Bermuda silhouette. Even a simple T-shirt feels incredibly considered paired with these shorts.

If you also have a plethora of white skirt outfits in your saved folder, you'll be pleased to hear that Aligne's new style is here. As a staple piece for every summer, it's worth investing a little more in this 100% cotton style.

Classic with a twist is a formula that always looks expensive, even when it comes from the high street. COS's soft yellow top with a playful twist edge is a prime example of how minimalist pieces can be a standout.

Alongside the excellent denim and linen trousers, I find myself turning back to H&M when looking for a great throw-on dress. The colour choices and loose feel always feels incredibly high end, even when the price is so affordable.

With temperatures reaching 30-plus next week, linen is all I can think about. For sharp tailoring, an airy and high quality fabric and affordable price tag, look to Massimo Dutti.

With another heatwave upon us, I'm leaning into the best of summer fashion. Naturally, that includes a great basket bag. The intricately woven fan bag, along with contrasting black handles, makes this bag both timeless and expensive-looking.

I'm looking to switch up my shirt looks this season, and the perfect way to do so is to bring in delicate Broderie detailing. Arket brings its focus on great quality and design together to create this understated blouse.

Pretty details are the focus of my summer wardrobe right now, and this Topshop dress has an array of beautiful motifs. The silhouette alone feels incredibly elegant, whilst the lace accents and lemon shade take this dress to a whole new level.

Brown suede, a cushioned sole and a minimalist strappy look—every detail of these Arket sandals is just right. Whether strolling through the city streets, or heading to the beach on holiday, these understated sandals will be the finishing touch to all my looks.

This whole look is one I want to emulate immediately, and the first thing I'll be buying to make it happen is this sleek striped shirt. The brown and white combination is undeniably timeless, and with linen in the composition, I know this will be an airy staple I wear on repeat throughout the summer months.

I'm not abandoning my metal jewellery completely, but this summer I'm enamoured by beaded necklaces and chunky acrylic bracelets. After a long hunt for the perfect red beaded necklace to make my simple dresses and plain white T-shirts feel contemporary, I've finally found it. Well done, Whistles.

Massimo Dutti is a master at tailored styles, and the cut of these linen trousers is a prime example of the brand's considered designs. Bring a polished touch to a simple T-shirt and trousers look, or embrace the ease of a co-ord with the matching waistcoat.

Ever wondered how stylish people look elevated and stay comfortable? Drawstring satin trousers are the answer. No matter the season, these trousers will bring a premium feel to your looks. Did someone say chic airport look?

Earlier this year I received a plethora of compliments on a longline cardigan from Nobody's Child. Now, it's back in a fresh summer shade with a sweet scalloped edge to a pretty twist. Consider this already in my basket.

COS has officially done it again, bringing a modern edge to timeless pieces and I've already spotted so many stylish people updating their tailored trousers to this contemporary wrap style pair.

This summer is all about the pretty white blouse, and Free People is leaning into its boho aesthetic to create this intricately embroidered, lace-trimmed piece that will bring a romantic edge to looks this year and beyond.

This season, I'm swapping my well-worn denim shorts for something a little more polished. The tailored details, the longline silhouette and the sleek neutral shade bring an instant elevation this pair.

I've been avidly awaiting the release of the India Edit for Monsoon, and as soon as it went live I knew this would be a best-seller. An ethereal drop waistline, a buttery yellow shade and a pretty silhouette—this is a dress I expect to sell out soon.

Culotte-style trousers have returned for the summer months and offer a perfect chance to show off your summer sandals.

It's time for the summer accessories switch-up! Give your leather handbags a day off, instead opt for a summery raffia tote with a spacious interior and Massimo Dutti's signature minimalist design.

Zara is on top form right now, and a prime example of that is this butter yellow, incredibly soft suede leather jacket. From the cooler summer moments to fresh autumn days, this is a jacket that will earns its keep in any wardrobe.

I'm always impressed with H&M's tailoring, and this ankle-skimming pair is the latest style to join my wish list. The crisp white feels particularly fitting for summer, but this pair also comes in navy, beige and khaki.

So many summer outfits start with a great midi skirt, and we've spotted so many stylish people wearing this exact Free People skirt. The a-line silhouette and soft pleats make for a seriously considered piece, plus the side elastic brings a comfortable edge to this sleek skirt.

Wondering how to look chic whilst staying comfortable this summer? Look to Hush's perfectly draped linen-blend trousers.

I spotted someone wearing this exact dress over the weekend. With sweet ruffle details and an elegant scoop neckline, I still can't believe its a high street find.

With broderie anglaise, vintage-look embroidery and sweet tie details, this is one of the prettiest tops I've seen in a while. This summer, I'll be pairing it with everything from simple denim shorts to tailored linen to floaty skirts.

So simple, but so effective. The perfect throw on yet elegant summer dress.

It's taken me a while to come around to them but I'm so into bermuda shorts for 2025. This polished pair are at the top of my wish list.

These are such a great affordable alternative if you’ve had those Miu Miu boat shoes on your wish list for a while.

This is such a unique and interesting way to make all your outfits look polished.

I've seen this bag on Instagram recently and I was certain it was going to be designer. Perfect for throwing everything in and still looking stylish.

Polka dots are back in a big way for summer 2025, you heard it here first. This perfect summer dress is unsurprisingly selling out fast.

If you've been searching for a sleek alternative to a boring straight leg, informal wide-leg or dated skinny jean, this slim flare in a perfect shade of deep blue denim should be on your radar. Arket's denim always impresses me with the quality so I'm excited to try this fresh pair which look like they can easily be dressed up or down.

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.