It’s no secret that once autumn arrives, there’s one high-street destination editors consistently turn to for pieces that look far more expensive than they are. Arket has long been the fashion insider’s go-to—not only for its impeccable knitwear and perfectly cut jeans, but also for its exceptional outerwear.

No stranger to a viral moment, Arket has perfected the formula for sell-out success. From its alpaca-blend knit that dominated last winter to its perennially sold-out puffer jackets, the brand consistently turns everyday staples into cult favourites. This season, it’s the Lined Cotton Jacket taking centre stage. The rich chocolate-brown iteration landed last month and has already earned a coveted spot among the Who What Wear UK team’s seasonal favourites. Shopping Editor Florrie Alexander and Junior Branded Content Editor Humaa Hussain have both declared it “the perfect autumn jacket”—and we couldn’t agree more.

Writer and Content Creator Anna Newton wearing Arket's Lined Cotton Jacket in chocolate brown.

Overall, the jacket nods to the classic barn style, but its on-trend funnel neck and contrasting cord collar give it a distinctly 2025 update. The slightly oversized cut adds a relaxed edge, yet the clean lines keep it feeling refined—an ideal balance that captures Arket’s design DNA. With its elevated detailing and versatile shape, it’s the kind of piece that transitions seamlessly between off-duty and polished.

While the chocolate-brown version has now sold out, the jacket has returned in a chic beige shade that’s still available—for now. Shop the Arket Lined Jacket while you still can.

Shop Arket's Trending Lined Jacket

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After squeezing out one more summer holiday this month, I can finally say I’m officially ready to embrace some autumn offerings. While I’ll of course be releasing my cosy knitwear collection from the confinements of their vacuum bags, I always like to add a sprinkling of newness each season. Because, who doesn’t? And with the ‘new in’ sections abundant with elevated outerwear (I’m on the lookout for a leather bomber and a funnel neck jacket), glossy boots, bags and everything in-between, now is of course the very best time to pick up your new season starter pack.

While my Net-a-Porter wish list is always immeasurable at any time of the year, it’s the high street I look to when I want to replenish my much-loved wares. And there’s three shopping apps on my phone that get more attention than others: Zara, Arket and Mango. Which is why I’ve spent hours over the past few days checking out what I want to buy, and it's all the anti-trend elevated classics that stood out.

Zara has tapped heavily into suede, which although is key this season, somehow feels timeless as a ‘70s trend that lends itself well to each decade. Meanwhile, Arket has concentrated on creating impeccable knitwear, with a twist—think scarf and jumper hybrids and cardigans with interesting buttons. Along with draped could-be-designer coats and a pair of snake print boots that would make anyone weak at the knees.

Finally, Mango has everything from satin shirts, belted knit jackets to trench coats you'll want to wear with every outfit. So without further ado, out of thousands of items from these much-loved high street heroes, these are the 23 items that stood out to me as an autumn/winter 2025 starter pack.

Shop the Best New-In Pieces at Zara, Arket and Mango:

I can't remember the first time that I was introduced to French style, but I do remember the moment that my infatuation with Gallic style was cemented. I was studying in the south of France in my early twenties, and a group of women sat across from me at a café. Coming from London, I was used to the eclectic styles of the city, but here this group of women shared an innate elegance that was so effortless, so anti-trend and so natural that I immediately took note.

Over the next year, my studies were interrupted by hours spent people watching, intent on finding out the secret to dressing that these stylish people all seemed to be privy to. In time, I came to recognise the types of pieces that these sleek dressers would rely upon, the classic motifs they embraced and the considered silhouettes that featured the most. Now, I'm looking to embrace the French way of dressing as we move into autumn, and with a few hours of research, I have curated a French-girl approved edit from Arket, COS and Zara.

The first thing that stands out when assessing a French-inspired wardrobe is the focus on cut. Instead of chasing new trends, classic cuts are relied upon, such as straight-leg jeans and crisp tailored trousers, supporting their looks with a polished finish from the foundations up. The classic silhouettes are also paired with more contemporary takes on timeless styles, be it an interesting neckline on a top or a sculptural silhouette of a jacket that renews these reliable pieces. For autumn, texture is especially important, and can bring depth to an outfit with contrasting fabrics. In this edit, you’ll find a mix of outerwear and accessories in various materials that will bring this added richness to any ensemble.

Keep scrolling to explore the new-in Zara, Arket and COS pieces that a French woman would shop for autumn.

Shop: French-Inspired Styles From Arket, COS and Zara

Arket

Zara

COS

This weekend, as the drizzle set in and the wind picked up, I realised it was officially time to start building my autumn capsule wardrobe. I’m keeping my shopping list tight this year—fewer impulse buys, more investment pieces that I know I’ll reach for again and again. For me, that means heading straight to those mid-range high-street brands that nail the balance of quality and wearability without edging into designer prices, and when it comes to knitwear, there’s one label that always tops my list: Arket.

You may remember the alpaca-wool jumper phenomenon—a piece that swept through the wardrobes of every fashion insider, reimagined in every autumnal shade worth coveting. But the story of Arket knitwear doesn’t end there. The moment I stepped into store this past weekend, I was struck by just how considered this year's knitwear offering is. From the new collared spin on the alpaca favourite to short-sleeved cashmere knits and those très-French striped jumpers, Arket has mastered the art of elevated staples that feel current yet timeless. Each piece strikes that elusive balance of trend-led detail and enduring wearability.

Fashion content creator Francesca Saffari wearing Arket's Alpaca-wool jumper

It’s exactly this formula that cements Arket as my go-to for autumn layering. Whether you’re looking to refresh your capsule wardrobe with one hero knit or invest in a line-up that will see you through until spring, this is the knitwear destination fashion editors and influencers alike return to season after season.

Shop The Best Arket Knitwear Pieces

They might’ve been a beacon of Brat summer—as Charli XCX wisecracked, the key to achieving this self-indulgent aesthetic is a “Bic lighter and a strappy white top”—but white tank tops have gone the way of the ballet flat. That is to say, the best white tank tops have transcended micro trend status and simply become a wardrobe staple that chic dressers wear in spades.

Sure, their appearance on proclaimed internet It girls Julia Fox and Rachel Sennott in the "360" singer’s music video for the single might’ve helped the style garner a reputation as an essential for hedonists. However, long before they were given this label, white tank tops were revered as a simple and unfussy top that allowed for endless styling possibilities.

What began as a base layer designed to be hidden in plain sight beneath shirts, the white tank top first took to the spotlight in 1951 when American heartthrob Marlon Brando bared his bulging biceps in one during the black-and-white melodrama A Streetcar Named Desire.

Fast forward through a co-sign from Freddie Mercury, the frontman famously donned a white tank top for Queen’s magnum opus Wembley performance in 1986, and a runway debut in Helmut Lang’s late ‘90s fashion shows staged in New York, this former undergarment laid the foundation for outfits based upon function and a reserved approach to skin-glimpsing style.

While these days we’d never associate white tank tops with the naked dressing movement, there is something worth acknowledging about how cohesive this body-conscious garment is when mixed into your existing sartorial arsenal.

It’s this quality that has made them such a desirable fashion fundamental. They look as apt when teamed with structured denim jeans and a floaty button-down when running errands through the city as they do when layered on their own with polished white trousers during balmy summer days, as Rosie Huntington-Whiteley demonstrates below.

"White tank tops are the best wardrobe staples because they are seasonless, a perfect layering piece, and timeless," explains the founder of contemporary womenswear brand All My Love, Georgie Dorfman. Based in California, Dorfman adds that because the piece is so minimal, it's important for a minimalist aesthetic, so a white tank is really about "the shape and fabric."

But not all white tank tops are created equally. Given how widespread they are, there’s a certain threshold for pieces that can truly be dubbed as a “best white tank top”. They must be non-see-through, thick enough to appear smooth over your bra and also made of a fabric that’s generous enough to conceal any underarm stains.

This is something we’ve been discussing here at Who What Wear lately, as we noticed, despite its popularity as an easy basic, a gaping absence of this silhouette across our editorial team.

So, where a recommendation is required, I will deliver. After crowdsourcing suggestions around the office and taking to the high street to test best-sellers for myself, I’ve curated what is the definitive list of the best white tank tops to shop. From ribbed to racer backs, see the nine styles you’ll want to slip into below.

The 9 Best White Tank Tops for Women

• The Best High-Street White Tank Top: H&M Ribbed Vest Top, £7
• The Best Luxury White Tank Top: Loewe Anagram Cotton-blend Tank Top, £325
• The Best Non-See-Through White Tank Top: & Other Stories Fitted Tank Top, £9
• The Best Ribbed White Tank Top: COS Ribbed Cotton Tank Top, £15

1. Mango

Style Notes: After relocating to London from Sydney earlier this year, Mango became a high-street solace for me when it came to investing in chic items that served my new life in the city.

As the brand isn’t available in Australia, I was instantly besotted with the way it offered expensive-looking pieces that were both trend-forward and quite different from the other stock-standard styles you’d find stocked at your other favourite retailers. This tank top is the perfect example of that.

The garment itself featured a subtle V-neck, thin straps and a very fine fine-knit touch, though these qualities didn’t lead the style to look flimsy. In fact, it was the opposite, given that it was composed mainly of durable and breathable viscose—a semi-synthetic fibre derived from regenerated wood pulp.

The plunging silhouette gave the top an opulent quality, like something you’d see stocked at Khaite’s Manhattan boutique or made by an independent luxury fashion designer. What I adored most, though, was that the style was seamless and sat flush across my chest, contributing to the tank’s sumptuous feel.

Here I’m wearing it in a size small and paired it with a whimsical white cotton poplin skirt, truly a summer outfit idea I’ll be replicating for years to come.

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2. Zara

Style Notes: Another high-street haven, Zara offers quite a lot of different tank tops, so it was difficult to whittle it down to the piece you see here. This white tank top actually was one of the most sturdy that I tried on, with a thick touch and a built-in bra that makes it perfect for everyday wear.

I was drawn to the square neckline and thick straps, two elements that you rarely see in tank tops. And while these facts convinced me to love it when I was wearing it, it was actually the slight cowl effect that made me pick it up in the first place. Again, it lacks that bulky edge that lines some tank tops, which made it a winner in my eyes, but I did think that the way it gathered meant it wasn’t crafted with larger chests in mind. (For reference, I’m a DD cup and am wearing a size small.)

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3. Loewe

Style Notes: For Who What Wear's beauty director Shannon Lawlor, the only tank top worth considering and recommending is Loewe's anagram tank top. An item at the top of her wish list, Lawlor tells me that she purchased it in Puerto Banús while on holiday in Marbella, Spain. Don't get me wrong, though—this tank top was far from an impulse buy. "I did need approximately five glasses of sangria to just drop nearly €300 on a tank top, but I'd say that it's probably 5p in cost per wear by now," she said.

"I originally wanted the classic black stitching, and the sales associate convinced me to go for the white as it’s more timeless and less showy. It was the best advice ever," Lawlor adds. "I’ve never seen anyone else with it."

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4. & Other Stories

Style Notes: For the reasonable price of £19, I was so pleasantly surprised by the make and quality of this & Other Stories white tank top. I sized up in this style, which I regret slightly, as it gaped around my arms. However, it did fit like a glove around my torso and chest, so I can’t be too admonished. It was also very longline, giving that premium and clean-cut effect that’s seen at brands like The Row and Tove.

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5. H&M

Style Notes: When I asked around the Who What Wear office about the best white tank top they'd rate the highest, H&M's style won out with a resounding lead. After wearing it for an entire weekend, I could see why.

First of all, the fabric was heavy-duty, meaning that even the darkest bra wouldn't have a chance at peering out from beneath the fabric. Secondly, it was really lightweight, meaning that it skimmed my body nicely and even gave me a slightly cinched look. Thirdly, it's hard to turn your nose up at the price. Say what you will about deals, I think this under-a-tenner find could be the best bargain I've seen in years.

From an excursion out to Broadway Markets to a trip to the pub and even a pasta puttanesca dinner, this H&M top looked fresh and crisp through every step.

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6. COS

Style Notes: COS has never failed me with sleek-looking fundamentals. From the brand's style insider-beloved white t-shirt to their admirable barrel-leg jeans, I'm never let down by the styles that hit the London-based brand's shelves. All this to say, the brand's tank top lived up to this hype, but didn't necessarily stand out. It wasn't too thick or too thin, meaning that it slightly showed my bra, yet not in a way that would make me feel uncomfortable wearing it out of the house. It's made of 97% organic cotton, meaning the material felt nice under my skin, but it was slightly frail because of this. If these characteristics aren't a priority to you, consider this style like a true Golidlocks find.

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7. Stradivarius

Style Notes: For Who What Wear UK's video producer and editor, Natasha Wilson, the tank top that's crowned "most worn" in her wardrobe is this unfussy one from Stradivarius. "I normally avoid white tees as they are always see-through, but this tank comes in a thick, ribbed fabric, which is hard to come by on the high street," she adds. "I love how high-quality this tank is for its affordable price point. Even more so, I love the classic racerback style of this. The cut is extra flattering, sitting at the perfect length for my low waisted trousers and skirts."

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8. Skims

Style Notes: Skims is one of the best shapewear brands on the market, but there's so much more to this sculpting titan than just compression wear and bras with built-in nipples. But to Who What Wear junior fashion editor, Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki, it's the brand that has the best white tank top. "This summer, I came across the Skims ribbed tank in the Selfridges sale and knew I had to pick it up," she said. "Slightly sheerer than initially expected, there’s not much else I don’t love about this tank. Its fitted fabrication and scoop neck make it one of my favourite throw-on-and-go tops by a mile."

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9. Leset

Style Notes: When a tank top is endorsed by Dakota Johnson, is chic enough for Kendall Jenner to design an exclusive 818 Tequila-themed one, and becomes a key part of Emily Ratajkowski's model off-duty uniform, I pay attention.

For the uninitiated, I'm talking about Leset, the elevated essentials brand worn by everyone from Angelina Jolie to Kamala Harris. Their cult-favourite Margot t-shirt has the tick of approval from Natalie Portman, Hailey Bieber and Jennifer Lawrence—along with my own, of course—but it's the Los Angeles-based brand's tanks that really piqued my interest.

I'm now the very proud owner of the pointelle-knit cotton-jersey tank. It's a sleepwear-inspired style that puts the comfort in chic. With scalloped spaghetti straps and delicate needlework that gives it the feeling of pinstripes, this airy style is something I see myself wearing for seasons on end. I just envision myself pairing it with a matching pointelle knit sweater and matching shorts in summer and a sturdy jacket with jeans in winter.

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What to Look Out for in the Best White Tank Tops

As a fashion writer, I'm often bombarded with questions like what to look out for in the best white tank tops. This is because I spend more time than most previewing new collections, sitting front row and fashion shows and being privy to the inner workings of the industry. Naturally, by consequence, I spend a lot of time in changing rooms too, so I've learnt over the years the traits that separate a premium tank top from a sub-par one.

The best tank tops should be stretchy enough to move with the body and not constrict. They shouldn't discolour easily and must wash well—you do not want to be racking up hundreds of pounds on a dry cleaning bill for what is a simple tube of fabric with three holes cut out of it. Straps must be considerable in size to hide a bra strap, but not stocky. If the straps are slim, the fabric must be smooth to disguise the ridge of the strapless bra you'll be wearing underneath. Necklines should not be too low or too high, and the underarm area must be spacious enough as not to allow for bulging.

This is a strict criterion, yes. But there are tank tops that adhere to this checklist. Find one that does and you'll love it forever.

Are White Tank Tops Supposed to be See Through?

High-quality tank tops are not intended to be see-through. If a tank top is sheer, this is presumably because the fabric is thinner or more lightweight. However, as London-based influencer Chloe Kath Butler proves below, you can use a see-through tank top to your advantage. The double-layering trend is a strategic way to look more chic and 'in the know' while still keeping your ensemble streamlined.

What Bra Colour Looks Best Under a White Tank Top?

Unless you're going for a Carrie Bradshaw look, white and flesh tones look best under tank tops. This is because they're the most conservative shades that won't look too jarring when peeping out from under the style à la Regina George in Mean Girls.

White Tank Tops on the Runway

Style Notes: Daniel Roseberry embraced this Western staple for his 'Lone Star' inspired autumn/winter 2025 runway.

Style Notes: Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez's Proenza Schouler spring/summer 2024 runway was full of city staples, like this layered tank top look.

Style Notes: For Sabato De Sarno's debut collection at Gucci, the Neapolitan designer cleaned the slate after a period of Alessandro Michele's maximalism with clean lines, structured fits and a white tank top, of course.

Style Notes: Same goes for London's own Maximilian Davis, who took the helm of Ferragamo by paying homage to the Italian designer's connection to Hollywood. (Is there anything more LA than a white tank top?)

Style Notes: Loewe's iconic anagram tank top, designed by the legendary Jonathan Anderson, as it appeared on the Spanish brand's spring/summer 2022 runway. This collection was the first to be staged following the pandemic.

Style Notes: Prada's designer tank top pioneered this trend and the silhouette's revival. One of the first to be designed with Raf Simons's input, the collection was inspired by "commemoration of life and living—of the occasion of the everyday, affording importance to each moment," as the brand wrote in a press release at the time.

How We Chose

These recommendations for the best white tank tops came from Who What Wear's editorial team. Spearheaded by fashion writer Ava Gilchrist, this edit was compiled based on personal recommendations and in-depth reviewing. As Gilchrist has worn, tested and tried countless tank tops over the length of her career, she revised her favourite styles and took to the store floor to uncover the new-in styles of note. Wearing them for hours on end and with different outfits and undergarments to test their sheerness and quality, Gilchrist and her fellow editors landed on the 9 best white tank tops.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

At this point in the summer season, my wardrobe has faced scorching high temperatures, cooler grey days and a series of calendar invites. Now, I'm taking a moment to step back and consider the pieces that I've reached for most, and the gaps in my capsule wardrobe that need to be filled. With elegance and an affordable price tag on my mind, my first two stops were Arket and Massimo Dutti, and already, I've found a few missing styles which would take my summer looks to a whole new level.

With a few scrolls of both sites, I quickly found myself putting together a selection of sleek summer outfits. This season, Arket is putting its best foot forward, leaning into the brand's excellence in staple styles. Crisp linen trousers with a timeless feel are primed to be paired with sleek tops or alternated with contemporary Bermuda shorts with a longline look.

At Massimo Dutti, texture is bringing an expensive feel to the new collection. Satin finishes, crochet touches, and soft pleats are crafted into elegant dresses and swishy skirts that can go from day to evening with a simple accessories swap. Bringing both brands together, you'll find a curated edit of high-end looking pieces with a minimalist edge. Think elegant necklines, pared-back silhouettes and easy to mix and match pieces that make for a hard-working and highly chic wardrobe that can take on summer in the city, or a capsule edit when heading abroad.

Keep scrolling to explore the best new-in buys at Arket and Massimo Dutti.

Shop the Best New-In Buys at Arket and Massimo Dutti

Spring may have only just sprung, but clear trends are already beginning to define the new season. Waisted silhouettes have risen in favour over the past few seasons and are set to hit new heights this spring. With the ease of warm, languid days, there's a shift towards boho aesthetics, with delicate blouses leading the way as an entry point to the style. Now, I've found a top that brings together these two key trends: the elegant Bubble-Mem Pintuck Top from Arket.

Arket's attention to detail is what consistently allows the high street brand to make pieces that look so premium, and this top is a prime example of this. The first thing that drew me in was the pintuck bodice details that create the waisted shape. This alone is a nice detail, but the brand takes the piece to greater heights with wider straps and the playful bubble hem that fully accentuates the fitted waist, creating a bold hourglass shape.

Personally, I'm always a little apprehensive when I see a button-front top, but the placement ensures that you won't see those peaks of skin between the closures. Now, this top is ready to join my off-duty looks as well as office wear rotations. Here I've taken my normal size 38 (UK 10) in the top, which fit true to size, something I always find with Arket's pieces. The top comes in two colourways, a crisp white and deep navy, both of which are made from 100% cotton and feel incredibly high quality to the touch.

Since trying on this top, my mind hasn't stopped putting together spring outfits that will immediately revitalise my capsule wardrobe classics. My wide-leg jeans are the perfect shape to balance out the bold peplum hem of this top, whilst a straight linen skirt will also bring an added elegance to proceedings. On warmer days, when I want to look put-together yet casual, I'm adding relaxed cut-off shorts and easy slip-on sandals into the mix. Even dressing for dinner just got easier as this top can seamlessly pair with satin trousers or tailored styles and a polished mule.

Keep scrolling to shop Arket's bubble-hem pintuck top and explore more Arket new-in buys I really rate, including a dress version of this top.

Shop the Arket Bubble-Hem Pintuck Top

Shop More Arket New-In Buys I Really Rate

In all honesty, it takes a truly special event to coax me out of my beloved flat shoes. Day to day, you’ll find me in one of three silhouettes: a trusty trainer, a classic Mary Jane, or—my ultimate favourite—a pretty ballet flat. Equal parts comfortable and elegant, they balance form and function, pairing with everything from well-worn jeans to floaty skirts. Put simply, I’ve yet to find a shoe that suits me better.

Naturally, not all ballet flats are created equal, and over time, a quiet hierarchy has formed within my wardrobe. For years, it was my minimalist black pairs that received the most wear—versatile, yes, but perhaps a little too understated. That was until I slipped into a beautifully crafted suede style from Arket, and suddenly, the rest of my collection faded into the background.

Cut with a flattering high vamp and made from supple suede that moulds gently to the foot, Arket’s suede ballet flats have become the cornerstone of my best outfits of late. Priced at £149, they do sit a little higher than some of the high-street alternatives, but in my opinion, they’re worth every penny. The rich texture of the suede adds depth and polish, elevating even the simplest of looks. A softly rounded toe ensures a refined finish, while the high-coverage shape offers comfort and support for all-day wear.

Suede ballet flats, in particular, are having a major moment this season. While patent and leather iterations remain classics, suede offers a softer, more elevated take on the trend—perfect for spring’s lighter fabrics and breezier silhouettes. There’s something about the matte finish and plush texture that makes suede feel especially luxurious, making them a treat to wear on the day-to-day.

So far, I’ve been reaching for mine on repeat, mostly with jeans and a trench, and it's unlikely I'll go a day in them without receiving a compliment.

If you’re looking to dip your toe into the ballet flat revival—or refresh a well-loved collection—this Arket pair is a truly worthy contender. Having already sold out once, I wouldn’t be surprised if they disappear again soon.

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Every year, we go through the same cycle here in the UK. We get a few days of sunshine and trick ourselves into thinking the warm weather is here to stay. Then, just as we've packed away our heavy knits and wool jackets, the chill creeps back in, leaving us with the task of finding items that can adapt to the cooler and warmer weather. Enter Arket's linen-blend blazer, a spring/summer wardrobe staple that perfectly bridges the gap between warm summer days and breezier spring afternoons. And we certainly aren't the only ones who love it. In fact, when we went to go and try it on in-store, we had to queue up to get our hands on it! But I can assure you it was well worth the wait.

Shopping Editor Florrie Alexander tries on Arket's waisted linen-blend blazer

What really sets this blazer apart is the ultra-flattering waisted fit. Unlike the oversized, boxier shapes that dominated the past few years, it's clear that 2025 is the year of waisted, hourglass silhouettes that sculpt and shape the body. Opting for a waisted cut will not only look extremely elegant with any outfit but will also subtly enhance your shape without feeling tight or too restrictive. Not to mention that the tailored cut makes it perfect for layering. You can wear it buttoned up on its own or layered over a simple tank or fitted t-shirt.

Beyond the sophisticated fit, the fabric composition is what makes this blazer a real winner in my eyes. Made from a blend of linen, cotton and a touch of elastane for some stretch, it's breathable enough to wear on those rare but extremely hot summer days we get here in the UK, but will also provide just enough coverage when the temperature drops as well. Composed of 99% natural fibre, this blazer is sure to be much more comfortable on the skin than synthetic materials as well as being a more sustainable and lower-impact choice for the planet. Not to mention that natural fibres tend to have a much longer life span, softening over time instead of breaking down as non-natural materials tend to do.

The blazer is currently available in a mole shade that will go with everything from classic neutrals to bolder prints and patterns. For an effortless daytime look, I'd style it with a pair of wide-leg jeans, ballet flats and a suede tote. But this elegant blazer will fit just as seamlessly into a more formal evening outfit. A simple swap to tailored trousers or a poplin midi skirt, heeled mules and a clutch bag will take this blazer from day to night.

Given how popular this blazer was in-store, I have no doubt it will be selling out online soon as well, so keep scrolling to shop Arket's waisted linen-blend blazer, and then take a browse at other waisted blazers we currently love.

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As a shopping editor, I'm often asked about the best fashion items around. Immediately, an array of iconic creations springs to mind, from beloved handbags to the most popular tailoring pieces, but what might surprise you is how many of these items come from the high street.

Those who are able to invest in luxury brands for their staples would be right in arguing that there are benefits to design and fabric, but the high street has come a long way in recent years, leaning into designs with a timeless edge and an enduring appeal, and make from good-quality fabrics. Alongside seasonal pieces and trending buys can be found a select group of decidedly great pieces that are so good that they remain online and in stores for years. Yes—years.

What binds these items together is their classic appeal. From the white cotton t-shirt that won't lose its shape after one wash to the perfectly pleated pair of tailored trousers, these pieces work as sturdy starting points for a long-lasting capsule wardrobe. Whilst they all deserve individual praise, I like to make shopping as easy and enjoyable as possible, so I'm bringing all the best high-street items together in one place. Plus, I'm sharing my expertise to highlight the new pieces that are destined to join this list. Give them a chance, and I promise you'll find they become treasured pieces in your collection.

Keep scrolling to explore the most reliable high-street items and discover my soon-to-be best-seller predictions.

Shop the Best High-Street Items:

1. COS Relaxed Tailored Wool Wide-Leg Trousers

Style Notes: COS is known for its excellent tailoring, and these trousers are a perfect example. With sharp pleats, a wide-leg silhouette and crafted from 100% wool, it's easy to see why these feature in so many great wardrobes.

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2. Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket

Style Notes: Compared to the rest of my best high-street buys, this Whistles jacket is on the more expensive end, but trust me when I say it's worth it. Made from smooth, supple leather with a minimalist look and cool, oversized shape, this jacket is always selling out. We recommend sizing down as it does come up roomy, whilst the petite version has a shorter hem and arm length and tends to fit more true to size.

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3. Arket Cloud Loose Wide Jeans

Style Notes: When wide-leg jeans emerged as a staple denim style, Arket's Cloud jeans became an instant favourite. Relaxed in shape and made from 100% cotton, these jeans are not only comfortable but transform from easy day looks to elevated evening attire with the swap of a shoe.

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4. Arket Alpaca-Wool Blend Jumper

Style Notes: One jumper that features in so many of our editors' wardrobes is the Arket Alpaca-Wool Blend Jumper. The luxurious mix makes for a supremely soft knit with a relaxed shape, and with a vast range of shades available, there's a cosy jumper for all.

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5. COS Studio Bowling Bag

Style Notes: Elegant, understated and practical—it comes as no surprise that COS's Bowling Bag has already claimed its place in the brand's best-seller list. If you're looking for a roomy tote with a polished appeal, this is one to consider. It now comes in two other sizes and a range of shades.

Shop the COS Studio Bowling Bag:

6. Sézane Clyde Trench Coat

Style Notes: A trench coat is a do-it-all piece that can be relied upon throughout the year—and even take on the British rain. French brand Sézane brings together a classic design with a playful touch of check detailing to set this one apart from the rest. Years since its first release, this trench comes in a host of shades and consistently sells out.

Shop the Sézane Clyde Trench Coat:

7. Aligne Leo Long Waist Coat

Style Notes: Last year, waistcoats gained such popularity that I now officially consider them a capsule wardrobe piece. My top pick? Aligne's Leo Long Waistcoat. Like all of Aligne's creations, there's a clear consideration of silhouette with the longline fit bringing an added touch of elegance to this classic piece.

Shop the Aligne Leo Long Waist Coat:

8. & Other Stories Equestrian Buckle Loafer

Style Notes: Whilst loafers have gained considerable popularity of late, they've maintained their status as a staple shoe for many years. This & Other Stories pair combines a sleek low heel with smooth leather and distinct horse-bit hardware.

Shop the & Other Stories Equestrian Buckle Loafer:

9. COS Chunky Pure Cashmere Jumper

Style Notes: With an understated design, this knit lets the premium fabric and oversized cut do the talking. Crafted from sumptuous GCS-certified cashmere, this jumper has a cosy composition with a contemporary loose-fit shape to match. From the deep cuffs to the ribbed collar, it can easily take on designer styles three times the price.

Shop the COS Chunky Pure Cashmere Jumper:

10. Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Tailored Wide Leg Pant

Style Notes: The Sloane trousers are a best-selling style for Abercrombie & Fitch, and have recently become a favourite amongst our Who What Wear UK editors. With three leg lengths, sizing from 23 to 37 and a Curve Love fit option, they can be tweaked to find the ultimate fit.

Shop the Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Tailored Wide Leg Pant:

11. Melie Bianco Brigitte Faux Leather Satchel

Style Notes: If expensive-looking bags with a luxury appeal are what you're looking for, Melie Bianco's Brigitte should be on your radar. The bag is woven from vegan leather and has an understated slouchy shape. Currently, it's available in three sizes and a range of shades.

Shop the Melie Bianco Brigitte Faux Leather Satchel:

12. Free People We The Free Good Luck Barrel Jeans

Style Notes: The latest denim cut to come to the fore is the barrel-leg, and this pair has impressed editors and fashion people alike. In a dramatic horseshoe shape starting as a wide-leg silhouette and tapering at the hem, like most of Free People's best pieces, these come in a huge variety of shades and washes, and you'll be surprised at how easy they are to dress up or down.

Shop the Free People We The Free Good Luck Barrel Jeans:

13. Reformation Dusk Knit Top

Style Notes: Reformation may be considered more of a mid-range brand when it comes to most of its items, but there's a selection of more affordable pieces, and the Dusk Knit is a standout. The top is an elevated take on a simple tank with an elegant scoop neckline and thicker strap details. Whilst black may be the most versatile, you'll find this sleek top comes in an array of shades and patterns.

Shop the Reformation Dusk Knit Top:

14. COS Swing Crossbody Bag

Style Notes: Yes, this is the second COS bag to grace this list, but for good reason. The Swing bag has spent years being a go-to crossbody bag for some of the most stylish people around, with a refined leather finish and surprisingly roomy interior. Consider this the elevated version of that Uniqlo bag.

Shop the COS Swing Crossbody Bag:

And Now, the Best-Sellers to Be:

It's not often that we get a new jacket trend. Trenches, denim, leather and suede styles are all classics that have been in pretty regular rotation for many years now. But 2024 saw a really fresh new style come to the fore—the barn jacket. In fact, it was ARKET's barn jacket in particular that flew off the shelves last year and into the wardrobes of the most stylish.

If you don't already know what I'm talking about, a barn jacket is one of those (usually tan or beige) canvas jackets with a contrasting (usually darker) collar. You might have heard it referred to as a country jacket or chore jacket, and while it used to be synonymous with practical outerwear brands like Barbour and Carhartt, it was elevated to the fashion zeitgeist by The Row and Prada, meaning that now you'll now find iterations all over high street and designer collections for 2025.

Kim tries on the original ARKET barn jacket in dark beige.

While there are many nice versions on the market now, from luxe suede at Zara to Toteme's latest cream dream, it's the ARKET style that is the OG high street buy, and the one that everyone seemingly wants to get their hands on—something that's easier said than done when it's been flying out of stock for the last year.

The jacket's wild popularity is probably down to the fact that it nails the hard-to-achieve mix of being both cool and polished. Not to mention it could easily be mistaken for one of its high end designer counterparts.

If you had this exact jacket on your 2025 moodboard or you're new to the trend and simply looking to invest in the ultimate style, you're in luck—because ARKET just restocked both the original jacket as well as, more importantly, a new spring-ready version of its barn jacket. The new style comes in a lighter, almost-cream beige canvas, with a tan corduroy collar—a colour combination that makes it look even more elevated and polished than the original in my opinion. Can you tell I've already added it to my own basket? I'll be styling with jeans, loafers and a light knit until the warmer days when I can just throw it over a crisp white T-shirt.

I've heard it's slightly oversized so stick to your standard size for a cool slouchy look, or size down if you want it to feel a bit more refined.

It's sure to sell out fast again, so keep scrolling to shop the jacket, along with more of my favourite barn jackets for spring 2025....

Shop ARKET's Barn Jacket

Shop More Barn Jackets

The new year is officially upon us, bringing with it a fresh wave of new-in pieces to set us up for the season ahead.

After the Christmas break, many of us are feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on all this year has in store, which may mean you're considering what you'll be wearing to all the events filling up your newly opened 2025 diary. Yes, you could spend a few hours trawling your favourite sites to find that one special something, or even venture into the arctic outdoors to scour the freshly restocked shelves of the high street, but I'm here to offer a third option. Grab a cuppa, settle in and let me bring the best new-in pieces from Arket, Topshop and Zara directly to you.

We're only a week into January, and already my wardrobe has faced some challenges. Weekend plans and work days are back in action, and I've found my wardrobe struggling to keep up with the balancing act of putting together elegant looks that can withstand the freezing temperatures and bouts of snow. Naturally, I headed to a few of my favourite high-street stores, looking for new buys to bring an elegant edge to my winter looks.

Of the key players on the high street, Arket, Topshop and Zara are a few of my all-time go-tos. Arket's expertise in classic pieces with a designer feel is hard to compete with, and with each refresh of the new-in section, there's a new gem to be found. Growing up in the Topshop generation, I'll admit I'd overlooked the brand in recent years until a recent scroll through the ASOS website. Now, it's firmly back in a top spot with its consistently good denim, playful accessories and of-the-moment interpretations of seasonal colour trends. Finally, Zara is a brand I turn to almost daily as a reliable source for trending pieces, easy staples and design details that make each item look far more high-end than its price tag.

Tens of tabs, hours of scrolling and plenty of coffee later, I've settled on the 33 best buys from Arket, Topshop and Zara that are ready to rejuvenate all your looks through the rest of winter and beyond. Scroll on to explore!

Shop the Best New-In Buys at Arket, Topshop and Zara:

1. ARKET

2. TOPSHOP

3. ZARA

With 2025’s arrival on the horizon, a feeling of newness is in the air.

Over the coming months, we can expect an influx of new collections, fresh trends taking hold and plenty of unexpected styling (I’m looking at you, bows upon bows) to appear just as they did this year.

Whilst I’m intrigued to see what the runways have in store for us and which microtrends will arise in various European cities, I’m taking this moment of pause before January arrives to look back at the year we've had. In 2024, there was a distinct movement in fashion that focused on a return to classic dressing and a general quietening, with high-end designers and high-street brands alike putting more focus on foundational pieces.

In turn, a few key items quickly proved that they have serious staying power in our wardrobes, so before we dive head-first into the new-in sections, a selection of pieces that ruled in 2024 deserve consideration for our future wardrobes.

I dug into the data to consolidate the best-selling items of 2024, all of which have already proven their ability to withstand moving trends, faced changing seasons and gained their credentials as smart buys for 2025. Take classic tailored trousers that adjust to office looks, casual weekends and evening attire without breaking a metaphorical sweat; or a sleek bag, intricate in design but classic in form that makes a statement every time it's carried, and then there are super-simple classics like the perfect T-shirt that guarantee so much wear.

So before we indulge in all that the new year has to offer, these are the best-selling buys of 2024, ready and waiting to be part of your 2025 looks.

Shop the Best-Selling Fashion Items of 2024:

If you're a frequent reader of Who What Wear UK, you may know by now that I do a lot of try-ons. This year, I've focused on putting the latest arrivals to the test by trying them on in real life. Whilst online shopping has so many benefits of ease, products that aren't available in-store and saves searching for your size in various locations, sometimes it's important to have an in-person review of items before we click checkout and that's where I come in.

Just this year I've done approximately 29 try-ons, putting 33 jeans styles, 26 coats and an array of other pieces to the ultimate test. With each day spent in a dressing room, I hope to bring you insight into the materials, styling opportunities and fit of each piece, letting you have as much information as possible to make smart purchases.

With 2025 approaching I've taken a moment to look back at all the stellar pieces that have arrived in stores this year and have brought together the 11 items that joined my forever wardrobe. Below you'll find classic staples like the ultimate white T-shirt from COS, cosy knitwear that I now have in two shades because it's just that good, and a selection of accessories that bring instant polish and a contemporary edge to any ensemble.

So if you're starting to plan out your 2025 wardrobe, these are the 11 pieces that truly deserve a spot and come editor tried and tested.

1. COS Clean Cut T-Shirt

Style Notes: I've tried on plenty of white T-shirts in my time, but I always come back to COS. The weight is heavier, ensuring there's no outlines or seaming of lingerie to be seen, and features a boxy shape that particularly dres me to the style. Yes, you can pick up a similar T-shirt for less, but the quality of the fabric and ease of the silhouette ensure you will rewear this all the time.

2. Arket Cloud Jeans

Style Notes: Arket's Cloud jeans were trending as far back as January, so naturally I wanted to see what all the hype was about. Though described as low waist, these didn't feel too far of the place my jeans usually hit, and the wide leg silhouette is just perfection. The denim itself feels high quality, and as someone who wears jeans almost every day, this is a really important factor for me. The laid-back feel is evident from every detail, yet this pair can still work for dressier occasions with pair of sleek slingbacks. Here I took my regular size 28 .

3. Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket

Style Notes: Whistles makes such timeless pieces than many of their styles can be found each and every year. The Clean Bonded Jacket is one of them. This year, the brand brought out a petite version of the jacket, which I knew I had to try as the regular size hadn't suited my shorter frame. The sizing comes up large, so if you want a touch of oversized without swallowing you up, I'd definitely recommend sizing down. Here I'm wearing the petite size small which still has enough room for my cosy knits.

4. Reformation Clara Cardigan

Style Notes: This winter I headed in store at Reformation to try on some of its most loved pieces, one of which was the Clara Cashmere cardigan. I'll cut to the chase, I immediately fell in love. The crew neck design is classic and easy to style, whilst the main event is the luxurious cashmere composition. For winter, it's become a key layering piece in my outfits, but as a light layer with cosy capabilities I'll be rely on it for spring layers and on cooler summer evenings. The cherry and cocoa shades both came home with me, and I took a size M as above.

5. Zara Soft Coat

Style Notes: This was one of the first coats I tried on this autumn/winter, and one that I still think about to this day. Whilst Zara excels in jumping on trends quickly, it also has a plethora of timeless buys ready to join our capsule wardrobes. A prime example is this coat. The timeless oatmeal shade is sure to blend with the rest of your wardrobe, whilst the classic silhouette means this will always feel chic, no matter the year. Plus, there's just been a restock so if you missed out the first time, there's still a chance to snap it up. This coat comes up big, so I went for the size XS here which fit just right.

6. Rixo Ardith Silk Midi Skirt

Style Notes: Whilst patterns may feel bold to most minimalists, animal prints return every single year as a key trend, and paired with a refined silhouette they're sure to go the distance. In summer, I headed to Rixo to try on the Ardith skirt after hearing great things, and you can consider me wowed. The fabric is undeniably silky and smooth, and with tones of brown and black is seriously easy to style. Add a simple T-shirt and flats for day, or take this skirt to night with a nice black top and slingback heels. Here I'm wearing the size small.

7. COS Arch Tapered Jeans

Style Notes: Before COS's Arch jeans, I'd stuck to wide-leg and straight-leg jeans cuts, and now I don't know how I got dressed without them. The style has the comfort of loose jeans with the edge of a tapered ankle, creating a subtle barrel-like shape. The jeans come in 7 colour ways, including classic black, true blue and fresh white. Here I'm wearing my regular size, 28.

8. Mango Cotton Trench Coat

Style Notes: Mango's outerwear collection in 2024 is the strongest I've ever seen it, and whilst there was an array of trending pieces I adore that quickly sold out, the one piece that feels like a smart addition to my capsule wardrobe is this trench coat. The brand brings a refined edge with a front panel concealing the button closures, keeping the sleek silhouette intact. Here I'm wearing the size small, and I'm especially fond of the wide sleeves allowing plenty of room for chunky knits underneath, or can be buttoned for a neater fit.

9. COS Cinch Waist Cardigan

Style Notes: Classics with a contemporary twist is what COS does especially well, and one piece I didn't expect to like so much was this knitted waisted cardigan. First, the raglan sleeves that lead into a slim wrist make for such a striking shape, and combined with the fitted body make for a seriously elegant-looking piece.

10. Reformation Mason Pant

Style Notes: When I'm not wearing jeans, I can most likely be found in a pair of tailored trousers, and whilst in the Reformation store I thought I'd try on the highly rated Mason Pants. The fabric is a soft tencel lyocell that feels so premium, with sharp pleats on the front and a wide-leg silhouette. Here I tried the regular style in a size 10 as I couldn't find the petite version in store, but I snapped them up online after and decided to size up for a slightly more comfortable waistband.

11. COS Buckled Ballet Flat

Style Notes: On a trip to COS earlier this summer I stumbled across a pair of contemporary ballet flats that are cool and comfortable in equal measure. Naturally, they've become a best-selling pair for the brand and have since been released in a fresh ivory as well as trending burgundy shade. Paired with jeans, skirts, dresses and tailoring, this is a pair of shoes that will work hard in your wardrobe.

As soon as winter arrived I had one item at the top of my to-do list: find a great coat.

It’s one of those hero pieces that may only come out for a few months, but for the time we wear it, it's the most important item in our wardrobes. After all, we don't want to waste all that time and effort spent putting together highly chic winter outfits by covering it all with a drab outer layer. So, said coat should be seriously stylish, but I demand more. I want it to be chic, warm and of course, practical too. Enter the scarf coat.

@florriealexander wears COS' Double-Faced Wool Scarf Jacket (£189).

Over the past few months, I've tried on almost 50 coats (seriously), sharing my insights on the finer details with you, but one style I keep coming back to is the scarf coat. Brought into the spotlight by Toteme, the scarf coat has been rising in popularity over the past few winters, and this year, it has finally reached its peak. Undeniably elegant in silhouette, practical (a built-in scarf!) and ready to add a warm extra layer whether you're popping for coffee or heading out for the evening, a scarf coat is sure to prove its worth in wearability for many winters to come.

@styleidealist wears Mint Velvet's Hand Finished Wool Blend Scarf Coat (£250).

We've seen designer labels tap into the elegant coat style, but this year, high-street brands have rolled up their sleeves to put an affordable spin on the style. Already this season I've been impressed by COS' Double-Faced Wool Scarf Jacket (£189)with an oversized fit ready to be layered over knits and a shorter silhouette that can go from day to night in a flash. I've also fallen for Mint Velvet's more classic long iteration in a chic burgundy hue.

After discovering these two, I knew there must be more, so I've rounded up the very best high-street scarf coats below, just for you. There's a myriad of shades, a mix of lengths from cropped to maxi and plenty more design details you'll want to see.

Keep scrolling to shop the best high-street scarf coats.

Shop the Best High-Street Scarf Coats for Winter 2025:

It’s official, autumn has arrived on the high street. Whilst we soak up the sunshine and squeeze in last-minute holidays our favourite affordable brands have been busy stocking shelves with a fresh wave of new season finds. Though my focus is still on summer, and enjoying every last ray of sunshine that comes with it, there’s no denying that the milder evenings and crisp mornings will soon be upon us. Instead of leaving it to the last minute, I’m getting ahead of the seasonal switch-up with the help of Marks & Spencer, COS and Arket.

I often think of how lucky we are as Brits to have such a stellar high street. From H&M to Massimo Dutti, we’ve got an array of standout stores that consistently hit the mark on new-in trends, treasured classics and reliable staples, all at affordable prices. But as we move towards the new season, I've turned to a trifecta of brands that have each earned their stripes in high-quality anti-trend pieces that truly go the distance.

In fashion circles, M&S is not only known for its lingerie section but also its cashmere. Sumptuous styles return every time the cooler days set in to satiate our desire to cosy up in the luxurious fabric, without breaking the bank. Alongside, COS continues to serve up exquisite tailoring that year-round finds its way into our outfit builds and forever wardrobes. Arket too comes into its own in autumn, as the first flock of jackets and coats launch, and each year the brand offers expensive-looking styles at a fraction of the price you'd pay for a designer style.

Whilst the brands are celebrated for the particular categories they excel in, the new-in sections prove that each of them can do much more than just those standout pieces. There's sure-to-be sell-out knitwear, easy dresses that can be worn throughout the transitional period, refined footwear to take over once your sandals have been packed away, and plenty more to support outfit builds throughout the rest of the year and well beyond.

To save you scrolling, I've whittled down the stellar new-in pieces to just 24 standout buys from COS, M&S and Arket. Keep scrolling to explore.

AUTUMN NEW-IN BUYS AT COS:

AUTUMN NEW-IN BUYS AT MARKS & SPENCER:

AUTUMN NEW-IN BUYS AT ARKET:

Whilst most are holding on to the last of the summer sunshine, we editors are always looking ahead to the new season. From deciphering the runway trends to staying on top of new-in pieces, we're here to ensure that your wardrobe is prepared for the seasonal switchover when it comes. And from looking at the current weather, we may be dipping into our autumn wardrobes sooner than we thought.

Like us, brands have already begun dropping some cooler-weather pieces, and on my morning scroll of some of our favourites, I came across the most expensive-looking coat that I honestly mistook for a designer piece. All I have to say is well done, Arket.

When it comes to building a refined wardrobe, certain items call for investment, and I've always believed that a great coat is one of them. As the key layer in our autumn/winter wardrobes, this piece is the outer shell of our outfits and sets the tone for all our looks. I thought that finding a coat that could take on this challenge would always come with a hefty price tag, taking into account design details and quality, but Arket's early autumn 2024 collection has already proved me wrong.

Arket has a track record of offering high-end-looking pieces on a (premium) high-street budget thanks to the brand's attention to detail, and when it comes to my new favourite coat, this is very much the case. The Double-Face Wrap Coat (£189) has a wide collar that adds a sophisticated edge with a refined wool-blend composition and elegant wrap silhouette that looks just as put-together tied or worn loose.

I'm so impressed by this coat that I immediately started conjuring up all the ways I can wear it, as the neutral shade and wearable style make for a piece that will support your day, work and night looks seamlessly. And I can prove it.

Below, you can shop the seriously expensive-looking Arket coat and explore the three ways I'll be wearing it this autumn.

1. Put-Together Daytime Look

Shop the Look:

2. Polished Workwear Look

Shop the look:

3. Elegant Evening Look

Shop the look:

It's been an incredibly slow start to summer this year, but rumour has it a heatwave is about to arrive. As someone who checks the weather app almost hourly, right now it looks as though the next week or so has highs of 20-plus degrees incoming to (finally) welcome us into the warmer months. We've waited patiently to start showing off our summer wardrobes, and as I packed away my rain mac I realised a few gaps were left where chic, airy, warm-weather heroes should be. Naturally, I headed straight to Arket.

For years we've praised Arket's stellar high street pieces. From iconic blazers to sophisticated co-ords, the brand is known for getting it right, and summer 2024 is no exception. My first stop was, of course, the drawstring linen trousers. A summer staple that combines a put-together feel and comfortable silhouette, this is one of the most reliable pieces of the warmer months. What's more, both our editors and stylish people have been singing the praises of Arket's drawstring styles for years. From pulling on with a bikini top for breakfast by the beach to styling up with a tank top and linen shirt for work, the versatility of these trousers is undeniable. Fluid and understated, I can already see that these will get so much wear this summer.

The next piece that caught my eye was the linen vest dress. We've all noticed an uptick in waistcoat and vest styles within our daily outfit builds, bringing that sophistication to the everyday. Now, Arket has played upon the elevated silhouette of a vest, extending it to an undeniably chic midi dress, finished in a seriously elegant deep brown shade. From the fit to the fabrication, every aspect of the design has been considered, with a silky lining that skims over the body to the ties at the back that allow you to cinch the waist for a more fitted silhouette.

Keep scrolling to shop the 2 standout linen pieces joining my forever wardrobe, and more linen Arket pieces worth seeing.

1. Arket Linen Drawstring Trousers

Style Notes: Easy to style and even easier to pull on, getting dressed is simpler with a reliable pair of linen trousers. Arket's beloved drawstring trousers currently come in six shades, from classic black to playful stripes. Here I'm wearing the size small.

SHOP THE LOOK:

2. Arket Linen Vest Dress

Style Notes: As more of a trouser person it takes a pretty special dress to stop me in my tracks, but this one definitely has. Pair with ballet flats for work, or throw on a strappy sandal and basket bag for summer holidays. Here I'm wearing the size 38.

SHOP THE LOOK:

SHOP MORE ARKET LINEN PIECES:

Listen up: Arket has just released a designer-looking suede tote bag that's on its way to selling out, and I can't keep this information to myself any longer. Having already sold out once before, this expensive-looking tote has all of the characteristics of a new-season cult buy. Composed of a premium suede material, the chocolate brown bag taps into one of the season's favourite colour trends in a wearable and understated way. Designed to hold a slouchy silhouette, the large tote comfortably houses all daily necessities, including a laptop and water bottle, and features an adjustable strap that allows you to wear it over the shoulder or sling it across the body.

A lighter alternative to the black leather totes we've been styling throughout the winter months, this softer suede style is perfect for wearing with a summer wardrobe. Coming in at £230, the high-street bag is still an investment, but it makes its case via a cost-per-wear angle—you really will reach for this bag every single day. Having already been snapped up by so many of my favourite influencers the first time it hit the market, the fashion set has proven its loyalty to the newly trending tote.

Read on to discover how influencers are styling the bag right now, and shop it below.

HOW INFLUENCERS ARE STYLING THE ARKET SUEDE TOTE BAG THIS SEASON

This oversized tote is ideal for day-to-day styling.

Liven up an all-white outfit with this rich chocolate shade.

The dark brown slouchy bag is so easy to work into a capsule wardrobe.

SHOP THE ARKET SUEDE TOTE BAG:

SHOP OUR OTHER FAVOURITE SUEDE TOTE BAGS:

If you're a regular around these parts you'll know that I'm vehemently championing the wardrobes of French women. French style has become aspirational for its anti-trend element and when studying the nuances of French women's style, I've observed the timelessness when it comes to footwear. Like their apparel, there's an unwavering element to certain styles, which although may come in and out of fashion, are staples in a French women's arsenal. Take the Mary Jane flat. Its revival heavily inspired in 2023, however, the crossover strap iteration has been celebrated across France and championed for its feminine elements for decades.

The same sentiment applies to ballet flats. Miu Miu undeniably spearheaded the reimagined satin iteration, but ballet flats are known as the epitome of French style and are routinely paired with rigid denim for a dreamy juxtaposition. French women's shoe preferences are ever so subtle but there's a common theme — prioritising comfort and with a feminine lilt, by way of streamlined silhouettes. Aside from boots worn during the colder seasons, footwear airs on the side of flat. Most commonly worn heels are itty bitty with women preferring to wear minuscule kitten heels, gloved pumps with block heels or flat-surfaced espadrilles.

As we transition from winter to spring, you'll notice a slew of slingback and slip-on mules, ballet flats and loafers and continuing into the warmer months, you'll witness the integration of slip-on sandals, trainers (namely Adidas or Veja) and easy-to-wear thong sandals. It's like clockwork, but it's a recipe for success. Continue reading for a round-up of five shoe styles you're guaranteed to see on French women this spring, from your resident French style reporter.

See the Five Elegant Shoe Trends French Women Are Backing for 2024:

1. Pointed Mules

Style Notes: You'll be hard-pressed not to find a pair of mules in a French woman's wardrobe and I've been heavily leaning into this style since moving here. It bridges the gap between formal and dressy casual and it can easily be integrated into a transitional wardrobe. The most celebrated styles are pointed with a slight heel.

Shop Pointed Mules:

2. Mary-Janes

Style Notes: We saw the resurgence of Mary-Janes seasons back but it's safe to say it's a forever staple for French women. What's current, however, is the adoption of micro trends onto classic silhouettes. For this reason, you'll see them donning mesh detailing, unique straps or fabric styles and I'm certain they'll be worn for years to come.

Shop Mary-Janes:

3. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Contrary to popular belief, French women don't wear ballet flats all too often, as they prefer to wear trend-forward interpretations such as Mary Jane's or slightly elevated espadrilles. Having said that, they'll own at least one pair to wear when the occasion calls. I've seen many of my favourite French Saartorialists don Chanel's iconic ballet flats. It has a wonderful silhouette that's proven hard to replicate but if it's not in keeping with your budget, I've found some notable and equally chic contenders.

Shop Ballet Flats:

4. The Micro Heel

Style Notes: You may notice that French women like to prop an outfit up with a little heel. No bigger than a couple of inches but with a statement effect, you'll see them styled with everything from straight-leg jeans to dresses. This category feels a little miscellaneous but all mini heels create a similar effect.

Shop Micro Heel:

5. Loafers

Style Notes: Although most French women's footwear bears a feminine silhouette, they're often spotted wearing loafers, particularly during the transitional months. Hardwearing, practical, yet chic, they've become the bedrock of a footwear capsule. Rigid denim (namely Levis 501s), a pale trench coat and a supple white t-shirt complete the uniform.

Shop Loafers:

There are those dedicated to dresses, others who always step out in the very best shoes, but for me it’s all about denim. Jeans, shirts, jumpsuits, dresses—I’m such a big fan of this fabric that it makes up most of my outfit builds throughout the year. Even when I’m running to the shops, I’ll pull on my favourite wide-leg style just to feel slightly more put together. All that to say I know a thing or two about great denim, so it might surprise you that all but one of my favourite pairs comes straight from the high street.

Jeans are a true wardrobe staple. Bar a few days in the height of summer, denim is one fabric that we can rely upon all year round, and can be taken from day to night in the swap of a top. With boots, heels, sandals, flats; these trousers are as versatile as they come, and I personally wear them from the coldest days with tights underneath and cosy knits, to warm summer days with a tank top and slides. But it's a known fact that when it comes to jeans, finding the one can feel like a never-ending mission. As a denim devotee, I can attest for the hours that can be spent in dressing rooms wriggling into various styles just to find the elusive perfect pair. And often, we assume that the very best styles are the ones that have a high price tag to match. Whilst I can see the appeal of higher-end denim and have a few styles on my wish list that I’m saving up for, I’ve found so many stand-out pairs on the high street that I simply had to share them with you.

To save the time and energy it takes to do a mass denim try-on, I took one for the team and did the hard work for you. Rounding up six of the best-selling styles from three of our most reliable high street stores, H&M, COS and Arket, I’ve put these pairs to the test to see if they live up to my high standards, and help guide you through the denim shopping process as seamlessly as possible. For reference, I wear a size 28 and stand at 5’2”. In rounding up the best styles, I tried a variety of cuts from high to low waist, baggy to slim fit, so that whatever style you’re looking for has been covered.

Keep scrolling to see the six best high-street jeans I tried on, and my thoughts on each.

H&M

THE WIDE HIGH JEANS

Style Notes: Truthfully, I've had my eye on H&M's quick-moving wide-high jeans for a few weeks now. Featuring a classic high waist and wide-leg silhouette, these feel like a very 2025 pair of jeans. The fabric is incredibly soft and very comfortable, as I've found is a feature of the brand's denim selection. Whilst there are some wide-leg styles that are seriously exaggerated, this pair felt just right. This style comes in regular number sizes, and I opted for a size 10 which fit like a dream. And at just £28, are a seriously affordable option.

THE SLIM STRAIGHT HIGH ANKLE JEANS

Style Notes: To be fully transparent, I actually have a pair of H&M's highly popular Slim Straight High Ankle jeans already, but that isn't the reason I chose to try them again. Ever since H&M released this pair, they've flown off shelves thanks to the slim straight cut and slight stretch that makes them the jean of choice for many people I know. Whilst keeping a streamlined cut, these don't verge into skinny jeans territory, and can easily be dressed up or down for all occasions. I found that this pair fits slightly smaller, so I went for a size 12 here.

ARKET

THE CLOUD JEANS

Style Notes: Arket's Cloud jeans first caught our eye last year, and since we've continued to feature them in many of our round-ups for good reason. A bolder wide leg than H&M's, the flowing fabric skims your legs giving undeniable comfort along with the soft denim. I was skeptical at the thought of a low rise style as someone who grew up in the era of ultra high rise everything, but in taking my true size (28) I found that it was such a subtle difference that I could easily get on board. The laid-back feel is evident from every detail, yet this pair can still work for dressier occasions with pair of sleek slingbacks.

THE JADE JEANS

Style Notes: As a long standing favourite amongst many of our editors, I naturally wanted to see what all the fuss was surrounding the Arket Jade jeans. A slim straight leg style, this pair features a slight stretch which is ideal for anyone who likes their jeans form-fitting yet ready to move with them. Whilst I usually take a size 28, I sized up to the 29 in this pair because of the slimmer silhouette and they fit well. With a slight crop, this pair hit me perfectly at ankle length,

COS

THE ARCH JEANS

Style Notes: I’m a big fan of the Arch jeans, ever since I tried them on about a month ago. And since then, I’ve noticed I’m not the only one. So I took the plunge again, trying them this time in a light blue wash and once again fell down the rabbit hole. The almost barrel leg style feels incredibly current, and adds a contemporary touch to any denim collection. At 5’2” these sat just at my ankle, which was ideal for pairing with ballet flats or other streamlined footwear, and come summer sandals will look just as good. The denim is more rigid with less of a stretch to it than others, but the relaxed shape means they'll still be comfortable to sit in. For these I sized down to a 27.

THE COLUMN JEANS

Style Notes: After hearing so much love for the column jeans, I knew I had to put them to the test. A more straight shape than the beloved Arch style, this pair really is the classic straight cut. They come in a range of shades, but there’s something about the Indigo wash that adds a very 2025 feel. For me, they came up a little long, but as a petite person I know that this is part of the deal, and any dry cleaner will be able to take off a few inches without any sign that alterations were made. Again, the denim is more rigid, but the straight style isn't restrictive making them a very versatile pair. Here, I've tried the size 27.

It might not seem like it, but we are actually edging closer and closer to spring. Sure, the weather is still grey and cold out there, but with any small glimpse of sun I'm reaching for my shoes and heading straight for the door for a weekend winter walk (to catch the quickly descending rays). Fashion can indeed feel less than inspiring when baltic temperatures hit, however, I've been finding ways to make weather-appropriate choices that align with my style.

When it comes to dressing in the winter, the priority of many is to remain warm, but that doesn't mean that there isn't fun to be had. It can be the opposite with winter-appropriate accessories and experimenting with colour palettes. From personal experience, I've realised that easily transferable outfits, from indoor venues (read; home) to the outdoors are more time-efficient and encourage me to venture out for much-needed fresh air throughout the day. Although tracksuit sets are wonderful for the cold weather, there are many easy-to-assemble and inspiring ensembles beyond loungewear, especially if like me, your casual clothes quota is lacking. From easy-to-wear skirt outfits to sleek knitted sets, continue reading to discover seven inspiring winter weekend outfits that are perfect for walks and beyond.

7 Winter Walk Outfits We're Excited to Wear in 2025:

1. Wool Coat + Jeans + Loafers

Style Notes: Whether you're going on a casual day out or need a warm layer to throw over your elegant evening outfits, a classic wool coat will serve you from now and well into the spring season. We probably all already a classic black so why not take a cue from Marilyn and opt for a chic yet no less versatile dark brown iteration?

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2. Knitted Jumper + Knitted Skirt + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Ever a lover of minimalist tones, Dina demonstrates the appeal of wearing tonal outfits in grey (which is arguably just as versatile as black or white). Not only is the colour scheme chic, but this is also a comfortable outfit you can easily take from the home to the outdoors, give or take a few layering tweaks.

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3. Shearling Jacket + Cord Trousers + Chunky Boots

Style Notes: Play around with texture by pairing your fluffy shearling jacket with a pair of on-trend cord trousers. Add some chunky boots to keep hemlines off the floor along with a sleek handbag to pull the look together.

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4. Knitted Dress + Scarf + Oversized Tote

Style Notes: The scarf coat has taken over 2025, however you can create your own look by matching your knit dress to your scarf for your weekend walks. Add a large leather tote to fit everything in and you're good to go.

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5. Canvas Jacket + Jeans + Trainers

Style Notes: The canvas jacket style went viral earlier this year with celebrities and influencers alike hopping on the trend. And we don't expect these to go out of style anytime soon, least of all in 2025. The perfect mix of casual and dressed up, this jacket can easily be paired with anything from jeans to tailored trousers.

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6. Black Leather Jacket + Black A-Line Skirt

Style Notes: All-black get-ups are always chic and Danielle shows that full-skirted looks can be toned down for off-duty days. Pair skirts with trainers and hardened leather, for a city day on foot. Comfort and trendy rolled into one monochrome look.

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7. Black Cashmere Set + Tan Handbag + Ankle Boots

Style Notes: The appeal of cashmere is that it appears so uniform (especially a matching set). Add a wool coat, a crossbody bag (hands-free accessories are extremely practical when walking) and streamlined boots.

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The pursuit of an excellent pair of jeans is not without its challenges. Always demanding a thorough try-on session, it can be difficult to find a pair that delivers on comfort, style, affordability and fit. And the never-ending process is made all the more difficult with so many denim trends to choose from. Whilst trending shapes such as puddle pants and straight-leg jeans both have their merit, this season I'm picking up my search for the perfect pair of baggy, low-rise jeans. If the '00s resurgence hasn't already reached you via kitten heels or ballet flats, then these perfectly baggy and ultra-comfortable jeans might be your bait.

For their very cool and very 2024 silhouette, baggy, low-rise jeans are the outfit-elevating solution to your winterwear styling dilemmas. And whilst so many brands offer compelling iterations, I keep coming back to Arket's Cloud style. The high-street jeans frequently whispered about in fashion circles, the Cloud jeans marry comfort with style and have worked their way up to the top of my wish list.

Influencer Francesca Saffari in Arket's Cloud Low Loose Jeans (£97).

Available in eight washes, the baggy style offers an oversized fit, so consider sizing down once or twice for a neater finish. Coming in at £97, the soon-to-be cult jeans are a wardrobe investment that will continue to get better with age. Falling to hip height with a spacious feel and soft touch, the baggy, low-rise jeans are a comfortable alternative to the tighter, high-waisted styles we've seen for a good few seasons now.

Who What Wear UK affiliates editor Emily Dawes is also a fan.

A firm favourite amongst influencers and editors alike, shop the Arket Cloud Jeans below, as well as our other favourite baggy, low-rise jeans.

SHOP THE ARKET CLOUD JEANS:

SHOP OUR OTHER FAVOURITE ARKET PIECES:

Opening Image: @francescasaffari

There's never a better time to invest in some chic, reliable and staple pieces that then start of the new season. With warm, sunny days on the horizon (finally) and a lovely long weekend coming up, I'm starting to think about the gaps in my wardrobe and what pieces I may need to add to my rotation this year.

Whether it's a chic trench that will help you layer up during the transitional period, a chic bag that will work for the office and weekend, or a fantastic pair of flats that promise to go with just about everything in your wardrobe, I firmly believe the start of a new season and the end of an old one is the perfect moment to think about what pieces will make your wardrobe work even harder than it does now. The two places I've found that absolutely hit the nail on the head? COS and Arket. 

Whether I'm looking for elevated classics, or searching for the latest It item that has still has a timeless feel, between the two, they just truly never seem to disappoint. Not only do the trend-led designs scratch the itch of making sure my outfits feel current, the premium quality never lets me down, and, as classic pieces go, all of COS and Arket's pieces are pretty affordable, too.

Scroll on to discover my favourite new yet timeless pieces from COS and Arket that will set you up for a very stylish spring. 

Shop My Favourite COS and Arket Pieces for Spring 2024:

As a fashion editor, I spend a healthy portion of my days on the hunt for the latest and greatest on offer across my favourite high-street and designer brands, and lately, I must admit I've been spoilt for choice. 2025 has really started on a cold note, but the latest high-street offerings have me truly excited for the dropping temperatures ahead. From chic coats to cosy knits and chunky boots, I'll always look for a good excuse to layer any day of the week so this is right up my alley.

So, with a love for all things winterwear, I've collated some of the very best new-in pieces across three of my favourite high street brands: Zara, COS and Arket. Each catering to a slightly different audience, and all with their own strengths, this new-season edit comprises classic winter items and trending yet timeless new-season buys.

Read on to discover the very best from these high-street heroes.

1. ZARA

2. COS

3. ARKET

A friend once told me that I'm much more of a cold-weather dresser than that of a hot one. I prefer to layer, build up textures and to tie it all together with some wool-content items for good measure. My long-time go-to item of clothing has and will always be a wide-fit pair of trousers with a pleat detail and belt loops. I feel like you just can't go wrong with the right pair and they can be styled with knitwear, fitted tops, chunky tops, slouchy tops, big coats, small coats, trainers, loafers...I could go on.

The beauty of this tailored style of trousers is that they go hand in hand with non-tailored items so well. Don't get me wrong, a waistcoat and blazer also helps nail the look, but I thrive on styling mine with a fitted jersey top or t-shirt and a bomber jacket or similarly loose-fitting piece. 

The added benefit? This style of trouser is so versatile, it can work for any event. From day to night or office to bar, a shoe change from loafers or trainers to boots or heels instantly transforms your trouser-led outfit with so little effort. They're comfy too, meaning that my jeans have been relegated and pushed to the back of my wardrobe this winter, and tailored trousers have taken centre stage.

There are a lot of great examples of chic tailored trousers out there right now across all price ranges and in all materials. Some of the best are fluid spun-wool fabrics, which hang off the waist beautifully or a thicker wool for a more traditional style. Read on for my edit of the best tailored trouser outfits and shop all the pieces you may need to help recreate the looks at home.

1. Sharp and Monochromatic

Style Notes: Here, Tanice combines the sharp tuxedo-style tailoring of her coat with a relaxed t-shirt for a modern and clean look. I especially love the sharp pressed edge down the front of her trousers. Her whole look is pulled together with a simple black leather belt and simple sandals (although I've selected a more winter-and-toe-friendly option below.)

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2. Relaxed and Layered

Style Notes: Tray effortlessly combines stripes with a light jacket (buttoned only at the top, stylish) underneath an on-trend khaki quilted jacket for a laid back look. The cropped ankle length of her tailored trousers along with polished leather accessories beautifully pull together her layering. 

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