High-street shopping has received a bad rap over the last few years, but there are great 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 timeless clothes that will become favourites, start scrolling.
The Necklace With Parisian Energy
Parisienne women are especially good at knowing how to best wear jewellery and how to use it in a way that makes your outfit sing, but without demanding too much attention. It’s this sensibility that made Agatha Paris’ UK launch pique my interest. Although the French jewellery label was first founded in the 70s, it has until a few weeks ago only been available in its native country. Its USP is bold elegance, so the perfect pair of hoops, pendant necklaces and chains – many of which you can find at more accessible price points. The horse charms are very sweet, the chain earrings are very Maria Tash but for much less, but it’s the heart-shaped resin necklace that really caught my eye – a nostalgic nod to the 90s in the most perfectly low-key Parisian way.
The Perfect T-shirt
Everyone in fashion is very excited about Victoria Beckham’s collaboration with Gap and for good reason – who wouldn’t want a slice of her signature polish at more affordable prices? The collection is selling fast (the cargo pants and white maxi dress have already sold out), but there’s still time to snap up one of the cropped T-shirts. Not every T-shirt is made the same, and if you’re tired of the bulk that often comes with tucking yours into trousers, then these are for you. There’s also a subtle Gap for Victoria Beckham logo at the back, a discreetly chic nod to the collab. Whether you go grey or navy, these are sound staples.
The Summer Blouse You’ll Wear All Summer
If you want to get into the summer state of mind, I urge you to browse M&S’ latest drop, which is full of dreamy, white pieces that will work on sunny shores or at home. I love the delicate dresses with lace trim, but the puff sleeve top with a cinched waist is more versatile. Romantic, but crisp, I’d wear it with cropped straight-leg trousers and loafers to the office, with my favourite jeans at the weekend and with shorts on holiday.
The Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Looking for something to wear to a wedding over the next few months that you’ll actually wear again? Enter Omnes’ floor-sweeping, lace-trimmed maxi, covered in this season’s trending polka dots. Just add a pair of simple gold hoops (maybe these from the aforementioned Agatha Paris), and understated thong heels and you’re good to go. What I really love about this dress is that it has milage outside of occasionwear – wear it over a T-shirt for a grungier edge, or just with sandals and a basket.
The It Sandals
When Miu Miu launched its Riviere rope sandals for spring/summer 2024, they quickly became an It shoe – inspiring dozens of budget-friendly alternatives. Sporty and laidback, their appeal lies in their range; they look as good with denim as they do an elegant LBD. Two years later, they still feel fresh and Parfois’ take, available in red and brown, is a great buy. If you’re unfamiliar with the Portuguese brand and in the market for a reasonably priced summer accessory, I’d recommend taking a look.
Lead picture: Courtesy of M&S
Ella Alexander is Citizen Femme’s fashion features editor. She started her career at the Evening Standard, and has since held senior editorial roles at Vogue, The Independent and Harper’s Bazaar, where she remains a contributing editor. She also writes for The Telegraph, Sunday Times Style, Service95 and CNN. She is an author, having co-written Dame Zandra Rhodes’ memoir, Iconic: My Life In Fashion In 50 Objects, published by Transworld in July 2024. Her favourite travel destination is Catania, Sicily’s second city.
Lead image courtesy of Mango
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Any Questions or Tips to add?