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 Perfect Boxer Shorts
The easiest way to update your summer wardrobe is to invest in a pair of boxer shorts. I was skeptical, but after joining the party last year, I’m now a convert. The borrowed-from-the-boys look never loses its allure, and the loose silhouette is ideal for hot temperatures. Banana Boxers have spent more time than most in creating the perfect pair; you’ll find traditional cotton styles alongside those in punchier colours. I like the classic French stripe, and the upbeat blue gingham, both of which I’d wear with an oversized white shirt, sunglasses and sandals.
The Summer Cami
I came across M&S’ camisole top via Citizen Femme contributor Frankie Graddon and her excellent Substack, Mumish. Much has been said about the fashion renaissance of M&S, and for good reason – its current summer collection is really strong. This embroidered top falls on the right side of bohemia, and would be perfect with a pair of denim shorts or straight-leg jeans and thong sandals. It would also work well with this season’s returning queen, capri pants (these from Nobody’s Child are a safe bet).
The Classic Swimsuit
I’m always on the hunt for great swimwear and Arket is among the best on the high-street. Less flimsy than some of its budget-friendly counterparts, this swimsuit is designed to support while also offering a clean silhouette. It comes with an elegant scoop back, and is cut high on the leg – but not too high that it reveals too much derrière (a personal bugbear of mine). The chocolate colour is also important; it’s the easiest way to make an outfit look expensive, and is a much warmer tone than black or navy. Even better, it’s on sale – now £39.90 down from £55.
The Wear-Anywhere Sandals
I won’t name names, but I was recently victimised by a pair of high-street leather sandals that have left my feet in a deeply sorry-looking state. Since then, I have been searching for a replacement – I want a style that’s smart enough to wear to meetings, but also relaxed enough for holidays. Above all, they must be comfortable; there is nothing less elegant than feet covered in blisters and plasters. Enter steadfast footwear brand Clarks and its Ravina Strap sandals, which come in olive, black and dark brown. The buckle gives them a polished edge, but the lightly cushioned sole and supportive cross-over design means that you can spend all day in them without persecution.
The Linen Trousers
The advantage of a well-cut pair of linen trousers is that they can be worn everywhere. Too baggy relegates them to the beach only, but a high-waisted pair with a front pleat gives them a more pulled-together finish. Wear these from Massimo Dutti to the office with a white T-shirt or loose-fitting shirt, or on holiday with a racer back tank for day, and a slinky cami for evening. The terracotta shade offers a way of bringing colour into your wardrobe without being too bold.
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
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