High-street shopping has received a bad rap over the last few years, but there are pieces to be found. These are our best high-street buys – that also look more expensive.
In a world of disposable fashion, where so much of what we wear ends up in landfill, budget-friendly clothing is thought to be among the worst culprits. Although the materials of our wardrobe favourites matter, what’s also important is how often we wear the styles we buy.
Whether designer or high-street, what’s needed is a thoughtful approach – only buying clothes that we really love because those are the pieces that won’t be quickly discarded. And there is treasure to be found on the high street, which is why each month we’ll highlight five pieces under £50 that won’t age. Each of these high-street buys look more expensive than they are, because shopping on a lower budget doesn’t mean negating style. Most will have a travel lens, but we also believe that, swimwear aside, what you wear on holiday shouldn’t be too far from what you wear in your day-to-day life anyway. For high-end energy clothes that will become favourites, start scrolling.
The Day-To-Night Top
Monsoon has always been very good at embroidery and hand-crafted detailing. This is a brand that was initially inspired by the founder’s 70s road trip through Afghanistan and India. Over 50 years on, Monsoon still offers well-made, feminine bohemia. This golden sheer T-shirt is embroidered with delicate white flowers and scattered metallic strands catch the light beautifully. It’s the kind of top you’ll get a lot out of – either tucked into denim by day (I love the idea of this with a pair of jorts for an alternative summer festival look), or with a high-waisted column skirt for the evening – and also has real transeasonal appeal.
The Trusty Summer Dress
Polka dots have replaced florals as this summer’s key print, in part thanks to the 80s-inspired Boom Boom movement. To keep them looking fresh rather than kitsch (although we’re on board with that look too), keep your footwear chunky – a thick-soled sandal, loafer or a platform mule both work. If it’s cool enough, layer with a leather jacket or a bomber. This River Island dress features pretty bow details on the back of each strap for a hyper feminine addition. It’s a great dress for relaxed weekends in the sun, but also a strong wedding guest contender when pared with a minimalist mules and gold jewellery.
The Jorts
Denim shorts are a mainstay of any summer wardrobe, but they no longer have to be micro-sized. This season’s trending iteration come in the form of jorts, a style that falls anywhere between the lower half of the thigh and just past the knee. More elegant than a faded denim cut-off (although I haven’t abandoned mine just yet), they offer a more grown-up alternative to itsy-bitsy designs. In terms of styling, it’s all about balance – if whatever you’re wearing on your lower half is looser in silhouette, then keep it more fitted up top – a simple white T-shirt or tank top works well, as does a classic shirt as pictured below. I really love the slightly faded wash of these from H&M, they feel relaxed but with the potential to be dressed up with a pair of simple slingbacks too.
The Summer Party Trouser
It is my firmly held opinion that every summer wardrobe benefits from a pair of party trousers, which is great news because this season they’re everywhere. As I have grown older and my capacity for working out what to wear each day has shrunk, they are such an easy win. They have a relaxed, but upbeat energy, which is very much the summer I want to have. Look for loose-fitting styles in breathable fabrics ideally with a fun print, then find your most trusted tank top or T-shirt and you’re done. To dress them up for an evening, just swap your sandals for a kitten heel and accessorise with a gold chain or oversized earrings. These from Next are perfect. The rich yellow tone is pure sunshine, and the satin jacquard makes them feel super luxe.
The Timeless Swimsuit
There’s something that feels very premium about an asymmetric swimsuit; it’s timeless without being obvious. One-shoulder one-pieces have long been favoured by luxury swimwear brands such as Eres and Sir, but this M&S style offers the same low-key aesthetic without the high price tag. While it does often pay to invest more in good quality beach attire, M&S is such a stalwart when it comes to well-made, durable classics. This one comes with removable padding and tummy control technology to ensure you feel your most confident. I’d also be tempted to wear this under shorts or a sarong for a casual lunch look too.
Lead picture: Courtesy of M&S
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