There’s a little trick that I think a lot of people might unaware of: If you’re smart when shopping on the high street, pretty much any piece can look designer. There are, of course, a few rules. Monochromatic outfits are a great way to look chic, but it’s always wise to check out the fabric and patterns. (Cashmere mix is a good example, as is croc effect.) But overall, the key to easy outfit success is something simpler and less fussy.
Right now, there are so many incredible pieces on the high street that fit into this criterion. As proof, I’ve found 25 items that look two, three and even four times as expensive as their price point. A case in point: the H&M trench that could be designer, the & Other Stories loafers you'll wear on repeat, and an ARKET denim jacket so good it should be considered a wardrobe staple. Keep scrolling to see my edit of the most expensive-looking high-street pieces right now, there's something in there that I can guarantee you'll love.
H&M
Oversized Trenchcoat
The exaggerated shoulder and oversized fit make this trench look like it's walked straight off the runway.
H&M
Lace-Trimmed Slip Dress
You can't go wrong with a pretty slip dress.
H&M
Wedge-Heeled Mules
This shoe ticks off two cool trends at once: chunky mules and a square toe.
& Other Stories
Relaxed Cut-Away Tailored Blazer
Just imagine how chic this will look with a white tee and blue jeans.
& Other Stories
Squared Toe Leather Loafers
These come in black too, but the tan brown is exceptional.��
COS
Knitted Tank
A knitted tank looks far more luxe than a cotton tee.
COS
Embellished Shoulder Bag
Prepare to have to answer "where did you get that bag from?" every time you wear it.
COS
Pleated Midi Wrap Skirt
A midi skirt + knee-high boots is always an undoubtedly chic combo.
Warehouse
Scoop Neck Satin Midi Slip Dress
Wear with a jacket and flat sandals in the day, and swap to a heel for the evening.
Arket
Collarless Denim Jacket
This collarless jacket is a elevated twist on the denim original.
Arket
Curved Suede Bag
A large bag big enough to wear crossbody, and in luxurious suede? Sign us up.
Arket
Wide Linen Trousers
Every wardrobe should have a great pair of tailored trousers, and you'll be grateful of linen as soon as the temperatures rise.
Whistles
Ida Short Quilted Coat
There's a reason that fashion girls are investing in quilted coats for transitional weather.
Whistles
Karine Rib Detail Cardigan
This also comes in orange, but there's something about the cream that looks decidedly more expensive.
Jigsaw
Satin Crinkle Sleeveless Top
Wear as co-ord for a striking two-piece that's perfect for evening.
Jigsaw
Painted Abstract Ruched Jersey Dress
Because only a designer would take a risk on such a statement, abstract print, right?
Rosie X Autograph
Pure Cotton Lounge Shirt
Lounging at home never looked so good.
M&S Collection
Satin Crepe Midaxi Circle Skirt
Wear with knits, cotton shirts, structured blazers, camisoles...
Mango
Oversize Leather-Effect Trench Coat
The easiest way to upgrade a simple trench? Glossy leather.
Mango
Bow Shirt Dress
I can't think of a dress code that this buttoned-up black dress won't work for.
Reiss
Mocha Dakota Zebra Calf Hair Baguette Bag
I know what you're thinking, but yes, this really is under £100.
Reiss
Black Lana Plunge Neck Halter Maxi Dress
Picture this on a summer evening. Sheer perfection.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo U Jersey Tailored Jacket
It's the sage green colourway that make this jacket go from good, to great.
Uniqlo
Slim Fit Straight Leg Jeans
The perfect pair of jeans doesn't exis...
This story was published at an earlier date and has been since updated.
Elinor Block was one of the earliest team members of Who What Wear UK, starting her tenure working across both Who What Wear and Byrdie, which were owned by the original parent company, Clique, at the time. Her specialism in fashion and beauty established her multifaceted role as Assistant Editor, which she developed over six years from 2016 to 2022 to become Deputy Editor. She is now the Head of Editorial at fashion tech company Drest.