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.
As we ease into August, our summer wardrobes have already been tested to the max. Sudden heatwaves saw us lean heavily into our lightest pieces, whilst soft showers coaxed a few light layers back into our daily rotations. Whilst the weather remains unpredictable, our assured staples remain a constant, from floaty dresses to breezy linens, and the high street is making sure that we have plenty of expensive-looking styles to choose from right now.
This week, I’ve searched for a mix of pretty pieces and staples, from sweet blouses that have proven their worth over the summer months to staple denim that will inevitably be worn on repeat through autumn and winter too. Tonal shades are guiding the way as we look for timeless additions that will see us through the last of the sunny days and nestle instantly into our forever wardrobes, feeling just as current when we pull them out next summer. 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:
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!
If you're looking for sandals that you'll want to pull out every single year, look no further. This style comes in four sleek shades, the hard part is choosing which one to go for.
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.
Shop More Expensive-Looking High-Street Items:
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
If you're already thinking ahead to transitional dressing, these are worth bookmarking. The square toe makes the classic ballet flat feel particularly modern.
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.
It may not be jacket season yet, but already the best new styles are selling fast. Personally, I don't want to miss out on this cool Topshop style.
From the shade to the shirring to the puff sleeves, this Whistles dress is just so pretty.
Every time I wear my red bead necklace I get so many compliments, and this Astrid & Miyu style so good.
The dainty Mabel Tank comes in four refined colourways. Now, I'm stuck on which one to go for...
A pair of sleek leather sandals will work hard in your summer wardrobe every single year.
Soft ruching and a flowy skirt? Yes, please.
Zara's viral jacket is back, now in a breathable linen version. Don't wait around, this is sure to sell out fast!
If you like your trousers bold, refined and summer-ready, look no further. These are the kinds of trousers that will move seamlessly with your wardrobe for all plans, from work outfits to elegant evenings on far-flung islands.
Take a moment to appreciate all the pretty details that make up this striking dress. Seriously, no one will guess that this is 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.
This whole look is exactly what I want to wear this weekend. Swap in a simple Tee, an oversized shirt or an embellished crop top to restyle this skirt for various occasions.
My linen shirts have been working overtime, and now I'm looking for something a little different. Enter Zara's lace-trim version, ready to bring a relaxed edge to my looks.
If you're looking to add a sleek touch to your summer looks, consider layering in a pair of silk trousers. Pair with pretty blouses, simple Tees or oversized shirts.
Anthropologie's dress collection year is the strongest to date. Dress down with sandals or take to all new heights with a sleek mule.
The Alohas Ola flip-flops are all over my feed right now, and whilst they come in playful shades and a cool studded version, I just know this refined brown pair will work overtime in my wardrobe.
Airy, lightweight and seriously timeless—the Sifnos trousers will be a well-loved summer staple every single year.
If you haven't explore Gap's pretty top selection, take this as your sign!
For those who like their skirts minimalist yet impactful.
Trust me—this pretty dress will sell out fast. It's already sitting in my basket.
Mango teased these a few weeks ago, and finally they've officially dropped. Renew your summer palette instantly with these suede red sandals.
On the hottest time, I have little patience for stringing together outfits. That's when a reliable co-ord comes into its own, and Reformation's style is a breezy linen two piece that can be mixed and matched a hundred ways this summer.
COS gets the balance on classic and contemporary so right. These smart shorts will earn their keep in your wardrobe year after year.
I genuinely gasped when I saw this dress. The striking silhouette has all my attention.
Sézane's sleek basket may be on the pricier side, but the brand has proved that its timeless basket bag are able to withstand the moving trends and be a staple piece every single year.
I was missing a really staple skirt in my wardrobe that could move between work and weekends until I found this Zara style. It comes in a few chic colourways, and I might have to snap up more than one.
I tried on these lightweight trousers last week and they immediately came home with me. Airy, chic and classic, these will definitely work hard in my wardrobe this summer (and every summer to come).
If you're looking for a bag that bring a fresh texture to your looks, this one's for you. The dark brown adds a rich tone whilst the gold hardware brings an elevated feel that makes this bag fit comfortably into all your outfits, from relaxed to smart.
So many of our editors have been shopping H&M's elegant Bermuda shorts this season. Style with pretty blouses, simple linen tops and easy tank tops.
This dress has so many intricate details, from the scalloped neckline to the intricate broderie to the puff sleeves. Dress down with sandals or take to evening with refined mules.
This heatwave, look to fluid silhouettes and breezy fabrics like this flowing midi skirt. Personally, I plan to copy and paste this entire look.
Woven ballet flats are proving to be so popular this summer. Now, Anthropologie brings its sophisticated eye to this summer-ready pair.
If you're looking for a summery bag that can move from the city to the seaside with ease, look no further than this sleek Whistles style.
This summer I'm living in pretty dresses that can be thrown on in an instance and look put-together immediately. Enter Anthropologie's sleek style which can be dressed up with heels or worn casually as above.
Even as a minimalist, I'm finding myself drawn to sleek khaki trousers. Pair with your trusted neutrals.
With Nothin Underneath is known for its excellent shirts, and this summer I'm investing in a mix-and-match set to see me through the warm weather.
This pretty top is already on its way to me. I'm planning on wearing it to make my linen trousers, shorts, and pretty skirts instantly polished this season.
Every stylish person is calling upon longer lengths to make shorts more sophisticated this season. This Zara pair is sure to move fast.
In-the-know fashion people always turn to COS for expensive-looking handbags. This black and raffia minimalist style is sure to be an instant hit.
The shape! The versatile shade! I'll be restyling this dress for day and evening throughout the summer months.
I recently tried on this blouse. I was won over my the relaxed fit, ruffle sleeves and intricate embroidery.
My linen trouser collection is in need of a little rejuvenation and Mango has answered my call with this soft green pair.
I'm only interested in elegant sandals that will outlast moving trends. This pair ticks all the boxes.
With more heatwaves on the horizon, I'm ensuring that my dress collection is ready for the heat. The one thing I'm missing is a sleek mini dress, and & Other Stories's style is so classic.
Whilst I wish I could promise the summer rain was done, I can't. Instead, I can offer a sleek way to take on the cooler moments and sudden showers, and this is it.
I've been searching for tops that are a little more exciting than a simple tank top or T-shirt, but still as timeless. Now, this sweet cami is ready to be styled up with jeans, tailoring, floaty skirts and more.
I've personally tried this dress on and can confirm that the fit and silhouette are exquisite. Dress down with simple sandals or elevate with a sleek mule for summer weddings and garden parties.
There are a lot of linen trousers around right now, and if you're looking for a distinctive yet relaxed silhouette, Free People's flare style currently has all my attention. Made from a breezy linen and cotton blend, the style also comes in other shades.
Everything COS does looks designer. From it's refined tailoring to minimalist sandals, the entire summer collection is an anti-trend dressers dream. Next on my wish list are these sleek yet comfortable sandals, with a suede lining and pared-back straps which are sure to outlast moving trends.
Blouses have become one of the most worn categories in my wardrobe since spring, and I expect they'll hold their place through autumn too. H&M's collection is full of stellar styles, from bolder styles to more pared-back versions like the one above.
My tailored shorts are working hard, but when I want something a little more playful, it's lace-trim shorts that I turn to. Just picture the lace trim peeking out under a long Tee or paired with a sleek halterneck top.
There's nothing more versatile and enduring than a spacious raffia tote bag. Every summer, we find ourselves reaching for this style over and over again, and now I'm ready to invest in one with durable leather straps that can be reworn every singly year.
Massimo's entire collection is impressing me right now, but the one piece I can't stop thinking about is this pretty embroidered skirt. The intricate lace is so beautiful.
& Other Stories is known for its pretty dresses, and I just know this classic style is about to become a best-seller. The pretty sleeves, shirred waist and sleek shade add all the elegance needed for a chic summer.
Sandal season is here! And just in time, Whistles has released a pair of refined sandals that keep their place in your wardrobe for many years to come. This 100% leather pair has a croc-embossed effect which adds to the high-end appeal.
Pretty blouses are here to stay. Style throughout the summer with light jeans, tailored linen shorts, breezy trousers and floaty skirts.
I'm so pleased that playful balloon shapes have returned to bring an elegant edge to summer trousers. But, this pair does more as the hem ties can be loosened to create a simple wide-leg shape. I might also be adding the brown and black colourways to my wardrobe too.
I immediately stopped scrolling when I came across this bag. Anthropologie is known for curating a selection of handbags that have a distinctly elegant look. Just wait—you'll be seeing this bag everywhere very soon.
I stopped scrolling when I saw this sweet M&S top. The first thing to get me was the sweet bows on the shoulders, followed by the sculptural shape created by the shirred waist. Don't just save for special occasions, you can style this casually with loose trousers or easy shorts.
Honestly, this whole look is a 10/10. Pair this breathable cotton maxi skirt with the matching top, or mix and match with the rest of your summer wardrobe.
If you're not quite ready to launch into sandals, it's time to add a sleek ballet flat to your collection. Alohas elegant styles are beloved by fashion people and editors alike (and come in so many great colours).
Massimo Dutti always gets it right. For those milder summer days, reach for this sophisticate overshirt with delicate buttons and a soft silhouette.
I've been waiting weeks for this dress to finally arrive! From the elegant shape to the timeless shade, this dress was made to turn hears every single summer.
The incoming sunshine is calling out for pretty tops with intricate embroidery. Enter Mango's sweet top with delicate embroidery and a tie back.
Ray-Ban has a history of iconic sunglasses, and this rectangular style is about to join the lineup. Personally, I wear sunglasses all year round, so I know I'll get plenty of wear out of this chic pair.
I've already spotted a few stylish people wearing Free People's sleek linen skirt set. The linen infusion brings an airy edge to this polished co-ord.
Even at the height of summer, the cooler evenings can call for a light jacket. This linen style will add just enough warmth, as well as bring a playful edge with the sweet embroidery.
A great shirt will work hard in every wardrobe, and no one knows that better than With Nothing Underneath. Now, this bold blue shade is calling my name.
COS is known for its excellent tailoring, and this pair is about to become a best-selling style for the brand. The barrel-leg shape is so refined.
I recently tried on these Reiss jeans and immediately had to share them. First, the barrel-leg silhouette is exquisite, then add in the seriously soft and comfortable denim and they've swiftly become one of my go-to pairs.
Sandals with a touch of embellishment always look so expensive, and this pair is no exception. No matter the year, you can depend on these sleek sandals.
I've been looking for a light layer for the cooler moments, and this overshirt has officially called off my search. The soft blue shade, the toggle closures and the curved collar come together to create an incredibly expensive-looking piece that can be styled with everything from jeans to shorts to tailoring.
Restock alert! Sézane's best-selling Gaspard cardigan has been restocked in the vibrant red shade, and I won't let it pass me by.
The accessories switchover is underway as sandals and woven bags rejoin our wardrobes. Of them all, this patterned woven style is one of the most expensive-looking I've found on the high street.
If you haven't yet explored Gap's summer dress collection, you're missing out. This is just one of the standout styles, exuding elegance and moving seamlessly from day to night with a touch of styling.
I saw these sandals in person the other day, and yes, they immediately came home with me. Leaning into the suede trend, Anthropologie offers up this sleek pair with bold gold hardware then instantly elevates your footwear collection for the warm days.
I scrolled through hundreds of H&M new-in buys to find these trousers, and it was so worth it. The striking shape, the linen infusion and the classic spring appeal has put this pair firmly on my wish list.
I've truly fallen for every piece in Massimo Dutti's latest collection, but the first thing that is joining my forever wardrobe is this black dress. The neckline brings a touch of intrigue to such a pared-back piece, and I already know that I'll be restyling it for day and night.
Nothing signals the arrival of the warm days quite like the return of the basket bag. COS's bags are frequently praised for their designer appeal.
I know a great pair of jeans when I see them, and the drape of this pair has all my attention.
If you didn't know, Gap's spring/summer 2026 collection is full to the brim with pretty styles, including this elegant dress. It also comes in classic black and a vibrant red.
Easy skirts are back in our wardrobe rotations, and if you're searching for a style that is enduring, classic and incredibly wearable, this one's for you.
This spacious woven bag is the perfect companion this spring. Fill up with picnic snacks, beach essentials or your work day must-haves!
If you're searching for a dress that looks incredibly current yet will hold it's place in your wardrobe for years to come, this is the one for you.
If you're updating your denim collection for spring, look to Gap's comfortable drawstring pair with a bold horseshoe cut. Currently I'm stuck between the light wash and dark blue denim.
