The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
I shop for a living, so I know a chic buy when I see one—below you'll find the affordable pieces that caught my eye this week that genuinely look five times their actual price.
Finding high-street buys that look like designer is my hidden talent. Keep scrolling to see my top picks this week.
We all want to look like our most polished selves, don’t we? Whilst, sadly, I can't provide you with a week at a spa or an endless allowance to spend at The Row, I can bring you a treasure trove of the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street every week. It’s my mission to prove that you can find premium items to elevate your wardrobe without the designer price tag, and to make it easy for you to pinpoint the bits that are really worth adding to your wardrobe.
There are some amazing gems out there that your friends won’t believe aren’t designer, but there's also a lot to sift through in order to find them. That’s where I come in. As a Who What Wear UK editor, I scroll new-in sections as a hobby, and can spot an expensive-looking, luxe-feeling piece a mile away. I’ll be adding the best bits I find to this list. Some may be more "affordable" than others, but you can be confident that everything is here because I believe it offers great value for your wardrobe and your pocket.
September is officially here, and whether you're desperately soaking up the last of the sunshine or ready for the respite of cooler days, we're all thinking about our autumn capsule wardrobes. Heading into the new season, I'm ready to stock up on some capsule wardrobe heroes whilst also adding a personal edge with fresh trends that are now on the rise.
Despite the 20-degree days, autumn style is slowly working its way into our wardrobes. Many of us have already layered knitwear back into our everyday rotations, and if you're yet to start, I've found some standout pieces that are worth adding to your collection. Priming our wardrobes for the damper days is Zara's checked cropped trench coat, which is exceedingly classic in design and therefore sure to hold its place in any great wardrobe for years to come. Alongside, I've been turning to capsule wardrobe heroes with an expensive-looking edge. Think great jeans with a sleek barrel-leg silhouette or a light jacket with a distinctive scarf design. Now to the good part—keep scrolling to shop the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street right now.
Shop The Most Expensive-Looking High-Street Items:
H&M's mohair jumper sells out every single year, and this season's rich espresso-brown iteration might just be its chicest yet.
Heritage checks are firmly back on the autumn agenda; Zara's belted trench is an especially elegant way to tap into the trend.
From the brown hue to the fluid pleating, this midi dress feel particularly sophisticated.
The toggle fastenings give this wool-blend knit a subtle heritage feel—exactly the kind of elevated cardigan I'm gravitating towards right now.
Slouchy fold-over bags are everywhere this season, and M&S's khaki iteration looks remarkably premium for the price.
Proof that patent leather is firmly back on the fashion agenda, these sleek ankle boots are such an elegant way to embrace the trend.
COS has taken the scarf-jacket silhouette and rendered it in rich brown wool. Unsurprisingly, it's gone straight onto my wish list.
For anyone experiencing straight-leg denim fatigue, Aligne's gently curved Wren jeans are a very chic palate cleanser.
A 100% silk composition is a rare high-street find, and the elegant neck tie makes this ecru blouse feel particularly luxurious.
Shop More Expensive-Looking High-Street Items:
Whilst I'm not wishing away the milder days, I've started selecting a few special cold-weather pieces as I know they'll sell out before the temperatures. Currently joining my forever wardrobe is Massimo Dutti's sleek wool coat with a striking collar and button details that make it hard to believe this piece comes from the high street.
This entire look reads as designer, and as I've got a pair of great black denim jeans in my wardrobe already, the blouse is next to join my wardrobe. The flowing shape, the frilled detailing and the longer length push this top out of pretty and into Chloé levels of cool.
Just before Marks & Spencer's London Fashion Week show, I was able to try on the entire new collection, and there were so many standouts. You can find out all about the excellent outerwear, striking accessories and sleek knitwear here, but I need to call out these jeans, as I know so many of our readers are currently searching for the perfect barrel-leg jeans for autumn. This is a tried-and-tested recommendation.
Even on warmer days, I'm layering in knitwear around my waist and over my shoulders as the colourful and patterned versions bring such a dose of fun. This Aligne knit has naturally caught my eye, with a rich colourway and trending Argyle pattern which is about to be everywhere this autumn.
Has anyone else noticed that COS's accessories for autumn/winter 2026 are so standout? Whilst refreshing the site for the sold-out Trullo bag, I came across the Frieze, and genuinely thought I had switched tabs to a high-end brand. Bringing COS's renowned focus on refined minimalism, the bag is sleek, understated and destined to outlast the moving trends.
The light drizzle over the weekend reminded me that there's nothing more hard-working than a water-repellent trench coat. Throw over casual off-duty outfits of layering over elegant evening looks, this piece brings together style and practicality.
It's finally time to retire my sandals for another year, and taking their place are a selection of closed toe shoes. Now, I'm searching for a pair of knee high boots to pair with skirts, dresses and more as we move through autumn, and Mango's pair are so sleek.
Last year, Massimo Dutti has a viral knit that sold out almost instantly. This year, the silhouette is softened, the colourway updated, and the appeal is even greater. I won't miss out this time.
So many great autumn and winter looks start with a sleek black skirt, and Zara is offering up this supple version in three classic colourways—black, taupe and burgundy.
If you're looking for a refined way to layer, try a soft knit jumper with a matching scarf. H&M's version is ready-made perfection.
Autumn welcomes back mixing textures, and alongside my denim and cashmere, satin is bringing a refined finish to cold-weather dressing.
Trench coat season is here and new styles are arriving on the high street. Of them all, my favourites feature interesting collars and minimalists designs, just like this Zara style.
I've had a similar designer style saved on my wish list for months. Now, I'm snapping up Massimo Dutti's 100% leather version.
If you're wondering which jeans every editor has on their wish list right now, look no further. The Chord jeans are a vintage style straight-leg with a relaxed edge, and now they come in a brand new shade.
Autumn staples don't have to be subtle. Personally, I can't wait to add this striking red top to my wardrobe. The fitted silhouette and loose sleeves are such a refined touch.
If you've been following the new arrivals you'll have seen that bold buckle belts are big news this season, and Mango has so many good ones.
It might feel a little early for a cost jacket, but this designer-looking version won't wait until the temperatures drop.
Our editors turn to Marks & Spencer's loafers every single autumn. They always look expensive and are surprisingly comfortable.
Mark my words, this will be the next Zara buy to sell out. With intricate embroidery, a lace collar and flared cuffs, this blouse could easily pass for triple the price.
A back-to-school feeling is in the air, and I'm looking to upgrade my workwear wardrobe. Enter Mint Velvet's sleek barrel leg trousers that balance classic and cool in equal measure.
Cobalt is fast becoming the shade of the season, and this knit will bring a bold pop of colour to my neutral looks.
There's a very designer feel to this sleek bag.
COS's cool technical jacket has sold out in so many shades, but I'm so glad the off-white version is back in stock. Pair with bolder shades, neutrals and plenty more. Plus, it's the perfect light layer for autumn and spring.
Reformation has so many sleek tops to take your jeans, tailoring and skirts to evening.
I'm ready to slip back into boots and the architectural heel of this Vagabond pair make it look incredibly expensive. Sleek, timeless and sure to outlast the moving trends.
Levi's are experts in denim, and the latest style to join its stellar lineup are the low straight jeans. I just know they'll be a staple in so many great wardrobes in no time.
Trust COS to refine knitwear to the point where it looks triple the price. Even though the weather is mild, I'll be snapping this up for cooler evenings.
Zara's denim collection is the strongest its been in years. Now, the high street hero brings another silhouette to the table, a softly sculpted curve that sits between straight-leg and barrel with serious ease in the drape.
Personally, I don't want to scramble for a great autumn jacket last minute, so I'm already on the hunt for excellent outerwear. Enter Massimo Dutti's tonal trench coat which will blend with neutrals or bold shades seamlessly.
If the COS Trullo bag has also been all over your social media feeds, you'll be pleased to know its finally here! The supple leather, spacious interior and understated look exudes that designer feel we're seeing in investment pieces. Expect this to fly out of stock.
A light jacket will ease your wardrobe into the new season. Wear as is, or cinch the hem to create a striking silhouette.
From the collarless design to the sculpted shape, this shirt is a standout.
Now for a switch up from out autumn staples—the pretty dress. If you have any reason to dress up in your calendar this dress is sure to induce compliments.
As light jackets slowly return to our wardrobes, I'm looking for a blazer with a little difference. Luckily, Massimo Dutti knows exactly what I need: a soft tonal shade, sharp shoulders and bold stand collar/
Nobody's Child may be known for its dresses, but its pretty blouse selection is just as stellar. Layer with satin trousers, tailoring and relaxed denim.
Sézane's new collection has launched, and through a host of cosy knitwear and standout jackets I found this designer-looking style. Canvas bags are the perfect transitional piece to move out of our raffia totes, and this one has a seriously high-end appeal. Find it on so many editor's wish lists right now.
If you're as dedicated to the jeans-and-a-nice-top duo as I am, you'll be pleased to see H&M's new style. The fluttering sleeves, fitted waist and tie back has placed this firmly on my wish list.
Comfortable light trousers will be the most hard-working piece in your transitional wardrobe. And Zara brings a fresh twist with the barrel-leg silhouette.
When my outfits aren't quite hitting, I know I just need to layer on statement jewellery.
H&M has officially restocked its best-selling cashmere knit! With a soft silhouette, bold ribbed cuffs and a rich shade, it's no surprise that this style sells out every single year.
Many of us are currently restocking our capsule wardrobes, and a pair of classic straight-leg jeans will always be a worthwhile addition.
These M&S loafers stopped me in my tracks. They look at least triple the price tag, with soft ruching and a croc effect to make this pair a standout. Plus, M&S loafers are known for being seriously comfortabel.
Zara's viral autumn jacket is back again! Last year, it sold out in a matter of weeks. This time I won't miss out.
Now that the weather is starting to cool, this blouse is ready to take over from my short sleeve versions and bring a dainty polish to my early autumn outfits.
The tailoring of these trousers could easily convince anyone that they're a designer buy. Add to your forever wardrobe now.
Supple, slouchy bags are a key style right now, and this is the most expensive-looking style I've found on the high street.
If you're wondering where to find sumptuous cashmere on the high street, COS would be my personal recommendation. This cosy cardigan was a best-seller last year, and now its back in a fresh blue shade to revitalise your wardrobe in time for autumn.
With trousers and jeans about to return in a big way, I've been on the hunt for pretty tops that will make my staples look incredibly elevated. Enter Ninety Percent's Orla top.
If your classic jeans could do with a fresh infusion, look to this sleek pair from Abercrombie. The waistless design is streamlined, focusing on clean lines and a relaxed silhouette.
I've already started setting my sandals aside in favour of sleek loafers. Marks & Spencer's styles are known for their refined look and comfort.
My late-summer and early autumn calendars are full of reasons to get dressed up, and this & Other Stories dress is sure to look the part for all occasions. Style with tonal accessories or make the most of the versatile brown shade with bold shades.
I'm readying my wardrobe for autumn's arrival, and the first thing on my list is a lightweight jacket. Enter H&M's sleek trench style, which will inevitably sell out before the new season even arrives.
I'm not ready to give up the sweet effect of blouses, so I'm turning to long sleeve versions to bring a pretty touch to my autumn looks. Nobody's Child has so many great styles right now.
A little known secret amongst fashion editors is that & Other Stories does seriously expensive-looking bags. Take this woven style, it's spacious, sleek and primed to become your everyday companion.
The fit! The neckline! The denim wash! Abercrombie's new top is all I can think about right now.
Barrel-leg cuts have cemented themselves as a classic cut for fashion people. Now, Zara offers a seriously sleek silhouette in a fresh white shade which will rejuvenate autumn basics throughout the new season.
If I have to hang up my trusty sandals, I'm happy to do so for these sleek ballet flats. Crafted from smooth leather and with a soft rounded toe, this timeless pair will bring a refined edge to all your looks from now on.
It's true, COS's best-selling cashmere is officially back in stock. As it tends to sell out every single year, I'm getting ahead of the rush.
There's a back to school feel in the air and I'm ready to update my workwear wardrobe. First on the list are these polished trousers.
Zara's belted shirt dress comes back every single season (and sells out every time). Now, a soft pink version has released which is already moving fast.
I picked this blouse and the matching skirt up a few weeks ago and have worn them on repeat in the city and abroad since.
I added these exact jeans to my wardrobe a few weeks ago and I've had so many questions about them ever since. Finally, they're back in stock!
COS's Paradigm bag sold out instantly. Now it's back in a smaller version that is the perfect everyday style.
The frog-fastening trend is here to stay, and Aligne is leading the seasonal switchover with this sleek satin version. Mark my words, it won't stick around for long.
I honestly did a double take when I saw this as I was convinced it was a designer buy that's been sitting on my wish list. In fact, it's a sleek alternative from J.Crew.
These Zara shorts are polished, timeless and finally back in stock!
H&M has reworked the simple denim dress into a striking silhouette, and naturally it's already in my basket. Pair with neutral tones or go bold with vibrant red accessories.
In the blink of an eye, we'll be layering jackets back into our wardrobes. If you're ready to get ahead of the inevitable sell out, I'd snap this sweet check style up now.
The kind of dress that makes getting ready in warm weather incredibly easy. I love the pintuck detailing, which gives the relaxed linen silhouette a much more elevated feel.
The rich brown leather and woven finish make this look seriously premium
A best-seller for a reason. COS always gets trouser shapes right, and this barrel-leg pair is no exception.
A polished blouse that looks far more expensive than its price tag suggests
An effortless summer dress you'll reach for whenever you don't know what to wear. The halterneck silhouette does all the work, so you can keep everything else simple.
Bermuda shorts are still going strong, and this linen-blend pair are already a fashion-person favourite.
There's something so chic about an easy matching set, and the inky navy shade makes this one feel especially elevated. Wear the pieces together now, then style the shirt with denim when temperatures dip.
If you prefer your denim classic, this '90s-inspired straight-leg shape is hard to beat.
Personally, I think that the best dresses are ones that can be restyled for all occasions. For day, add sandals to this dress, or take to evening with mules, swapping in ballet flats for your office commute.
COS is known for its excellent denim, and this new style is set to join it's best-seller lineup.
Well done & Other Stories. This bag looks so incredibly high-end, no one will believe its from the high street.
Anthropologie's Calla bag is so beloved that the brand brought it out in a bigger size for those who like a little more room. Now, a new shade has arrived, and I just know it's going to be an instant favourite.
