When I say I don’t shop on the high street that often, don’t take it the wrong way. It’s not like I’m swanning up and down Sloane Street or getting regular Net-a-Porter deliveries instead. In a bid to be more conscious with my shopping, I pulled back on all my purchases a few years ago and tried to focus less on cheap impulse buys and more on considered ones instead—quite a tough feat as a fashion editor. Yes, that has sometimes meant investing less often in more expensive pieces, whether that’s for the quality, eco-credentials or opting for a smaller independent brand. But it also means even my high-street purchases have had to become much more refined, focused and really, really worth it.
Wearing Zara suit.
Being in the industry helps with this, I think, as we see and try so much from the high street for work that it becomes easier to spot the recurring themes: which brands do which pieces best and which trends are going to stick around for more than one season. So, what made the cut recently?
To help you in building your own wardrobes (or maybe you just want to be nosy—totally fine too), I’ve listed some of my best high-street finds from the last six months below. I will preface this edit by saying that as a shopper, I’m probably what you’d call a minimalist. I enjoy the odd bright, frilly dress in summer (who doesn’t?), but when it comes to the colder months, I do tend to err on the side of neutral classics to mix and match. So maximalists, these might not be the picks you would choose. But if you’re after some great basics for reasonable prices, keep scrolling for the high-street items I’d pick over designer any day.
Wearing Arket blazer and vest.
This is the perfect day-to-night blazer. Just add heels.
I’ve had this pair of Arket boots for three years now and just bought the exact pair again. It’s not that they’re ruined or anything. I just wanted a smarter pair for work and one that can be worn on muddy dog walks—that’s how much I love them.
This is the softest tracksuit I’ve found across the board. The hoodie works great on it’s own with jeans too.
Don’t overlook the men’s sections on the high street—especially for knits. The oversized fit makes this look more expensive.
The fact that these are linen means they work in summer too.
You can’t beat an Arket basic. I have this ribbed vest in three colours now. They work as a great under-layer in winter and on their own in summer. Plus, they wash just as well as more expensive versions I’ve tried.
Weekday has the best denim on the high street hands down. These are a nice sturdy denim, and you can choose your length to fit you perfectly.
I wanted to tap into the crossover-jeans trend this winter but didn’t want to spend hundreds. These are a great high-street version.
I bought this suit for an autumn wedding, and I’m shocked at how much I’ve worn it since. It’s the perfect balance between fancy and comfy.
I don’t wear much colour, but this Zara shirt freshened up my wardrobe of neutrals instantly.
This cashmere vest is on the more expensive end of the high street, but it feels so luxe. It manages to be both on-trend and timeless.
If you’re looking for a classic, wear-everywhere pair of faux-leather trousers, you won’t beat these.
Dungarees are back in a big way right now, and this versatile black pair works for day and night affairs.
& Other Stories does the best knitted vests in my opinion. This one will be perfect for wearing in spring on its own too.
As quilted coats are a real trend right now, I didn’t want to spend hundreds on an It style. This one does the job and is a nice middle ground price-wise.
This isn’t the first time I’ve purchased one of M&S’s cashmere knits. The quality is so good, and they’re great for throwing over your shoulders as an extra layer—just size up for a slouchier feel.
When you find a piece like this on the high street that looks much more expensive than it is, you’ll regret it if you don’t get it.
Jigsaw has really upped its game this season, and this striped knit is giving me serious Totême vibes.
I might be a minimalist, but animal-print boots are basically a neutral in my eyes. These feel really elevated.
