If there's one thing you're bound to find a fashion editor doing in their spare time, it's having a full and thorough scour of the great British high street. It's full of unsung heroes, and with new drops landing almost daily, we like to have our ears firmly to the ground. However, the vast number of new-ins can make the task of finding a real gem a little daunting (note our endless number of open tabs), so it’s handy to know which brands and retailers will never let you down.
Our endless searches have allowed us to pinpoint the brands that make looking polished and feeling good as easy as possible. High benchmarks you say? Well, this is the test we've been putting pieces through to help filter the trends from the staples, the classics from the one hit wonders, and thankfully it hasn’t failed us yet. Naturally, it'll take you less than a minute of scrolling to notice some recurring brands in our edits for these exact reasons. Case in point: Reformation, Aligne and Everlane, whose pieces are the piece de resistance when it comes to that perfect balance between fashion and function.
Reformation has made it into our best picks for bridalwear, New Year outfit formulas and our classic winter staples. We work hard, and it makes our stylish little hearts soar when we find pieces that work harder. With origins as an indie vintage store, they only design and distribute small batches, making every piece feel that little bit more timeless and special than the norm. We can’t get enough of their gorgeous cashmere collection and we’re not the only ones; Celebs, influencers and street style stars continue to return to the brand for hard working wardrobe heroes that will last a lifetime.
Aligne and Everlane follow the same formula of stylish but conscious staples and so our essentials edit felt a little naked without them. They’re the ones we find ourselves unashamedly repeat-wearing whether heading to Fashion Week, the office or brunch with friends, and there's no guilt attached – both brands are highly committed to using only recycled and organic materials. What’s not to love?
It doesn’t get better than these three for building your New Year capsule wardrobe. Expect cosy knits from Everlane, polished tailoring from Aligne and standout staples from Reformation. We take full responsibility if you become just as obsessed as we are.
1. REFORMATION
We're all about our straight jeans at the moment and this high-waisted pair will look beautiful with all your shoes.
There's something so timeless about this simple silhouette. Accessorise with jewellery and heels.
The chic double breasted silhouette of this coat makes it feel instantly elevated.
Any ankle boot with a pointed toe and a glossy finish is a win in our book.
There are limitless ways to style a denim shirt and this gorgeous find doubles as a dress!
You'll never regret a versatile, cream roll neck.
The glossy buttons are the perfect finishing touch to this cropped tweed jacket.
Maximum chic, maximum cosiness.
The Mason trousers are one of the brand's best-selling pieces. Dress them up or down, the choice is yours!
A silky satin shirt will be a staple in your wardrobe forever.
Reformation is known for its silky slip dresses, and this new floral print is the latest iteration to grace the new-in page.
Loafers are going nowhere people. Invest in this monochrome for a pair that will go with nearly everything in your wardrobe.
Editors, celebs and influencers all love this cardigan. Look after it and it will last you a lifetime.
2. Aligne
The pretty collar makes this blouse feel so fresh and fun.
There is room for leather in any great capsule wardrobe and we guarantee a leather trench will never fail you.
You can never really go wrong with a bold pop of colour.
The tailored feel of this coat is undeniable. Layer it over turtleneck, tanks and shirts.
Layer this with everything and anything. I'll wear mine with a blazer and heels in the evening and a chunky knit and boots in the daytime.
This blazer, a white tee and gold jewellery is such an easy yet chic combination.
These are the definition of maximum impact, minimal effort.
The perfect way to try winter whites.
Is there anything more sophisticated as a cream blazer? The tie is such a gorgeous detail.
You heard it here first, denim maxi skirts are in for 2023.
I say yes to this whole pinstripe suiting look.
3. Everlane
Made entirely from organic cotton, this anorak is as functional as it is fashionable.
Stripes never go out of style.
The ideal choice whether you're on a trip to the gym or curling up on the couch.
The buttery texture of these flats make walking all day a literal breeze. There are five colours to choose from including this on trend lime.
Available in charcoal, black and canvas hues, this jumper is a neutral hit.
A cosy classic with a sporty cut.
Cashmere is always a good idea.
A classic sweater that you'll love and wear forever.
You're favourite mules, but elevated. Show them off beneath a pair of your favourite trousers or denim.
This cashmere vest is made almost entirely from recycled fibres and feels so soft to the touch.
Everlane's take on the cami is as modern and beautiful as you would expect. Complement the low neckline with a necklace and hoop earrings.
A beautiful cashmere cardigan ur go-to choice for all seasons. Layer it over just about everything in your wardrobe, year round.
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