The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
Finding high street buys that look like designer is my hidden talent. Keep scrolling to see my top picks...
We all want to look like our most polished selves, don’t we? While, sadly, I’m not here to provide you with a week at a spa or an endless allowance at The Row, I am here to 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 pieces to elevate your wardrobe without the designer price tag and to make it easy for you to pinpoint the items on the high street 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 a lot to sift through to find them. That’s where I come in. As a Who What Wear editor, I scroll new-in collections as a hobby, and I can spot an expensive-looking (and -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 every piece is here because I believe it offers great value.
I hope this edit helps save you time and money as you build a closet of classic pieces that bring joy and last much longer than just a few seasons. Now to the good part. Keep scrolling to shop.
Shop the Most Expensive-Looking High-Street Items This Week
Known for brilliant dresses, its no surprise that Nobody's Child would have us thinking this was a designer piece. The perfectly placed ruching and elegant square neckline are enough to set it apart.
Waistcoats have become a key part of the fashion uniform, and so many of our team is adding this refined version to their baskets. Wear with jeans, skirts, tailoring and more.
Take on trending red, versatile flat soles and a sweet bow to finish, and you get these sure to sell out mules.
Elegance is often found in simplicity, and few make this case better than this understated a-line shift dress by H&M.
Abercrombie's highly rated Harper trousers have had a linen update for the warmer months, and this playful striped pair is high up on my wish list.
Nothing says timeless style like a restocked item. Proving that another summer calls for a chic raffia clutch, COS has restocked their Framed bag in both the natural and black colourways. Style Notes: treasure forever.
With the arrival of sunshine this week, I'm dressing for bright days and I have a feeling this maxi skirt will be a main feature. As ever, Free People also offers the skirt in classic black, a bold yellow and a soft brown
Finding a dress that can go from day to event is harder than you'd think, but Sister Jane makes it look easy with this refined blue dress.
I've been looking to freshen up my top selection and for summer 2024 I'm looking to boho-inspired styles. Pair with denim shorts and fisherman sandals for day, or the maxi skirt above and mule heels to take it to night.
Shop More Expensive-Looking High-Street Items
There's no denying how strong H&M's new collection is. I can picture this dress with sandals and a straw bag for sunny day strolls, or elevated with heels for an evening affair.
Zara proves that simple can be seriously impactful with this tuxedo-style jacket. The white shade adds a fresh edge to your outfits, and the sleek tailoring completes the polished feel.
If you're looking to rejuvenate your jeans collection, the addition of a stripe is the way to go. Pair with a simple tee and throw a cardigan round your shoulders, or go full force with the matching set.
M&S's sell-out dress has just had a restock. Available in three lengths, this versatile white dress will blend seamlessly into any wardrobe. If you want it, move quickly!
With holidays on the horizon, I'm looking to inject some raffia into my wardrobe by way of this playfully-shaped tote.
I've got my eye on every piece of this collaboration, but this plisse top is one I know I'll turn to over and over again.
I haven't been able to stop thinking about this sleek pairing since I first saw it, well done River Island.
Plus, from April 24th-28th the River Island Manchester store will host in-store events and activities with prizes to win, free coffees, and a pop-up flower cart! And the first 50 customers to spend over £55 each day receive a limited-edition tote bag.
As we know, linens are about to enter our wardrobes in a big way, and these light khaki trousers with a polished tailoring edge are top of my wish list.
I've recently embraced the mesh shoe movement, and this fresh white pair will immediately add a spring touch to every step.
H&M knows all about the eternal appeal and flattering construction of a draped dress, so I have no doubt that this spring-ready linen-blend style will move quickly.
If you find yourself reaching for tailored styles over and over again, why not add a playful edge into the mix with this tie-front style by COS.
Wide-leg denim styles are reigning supreme for 2024, and the turn-up cuff details on this pair set them apart.
Marks & Spencer's spring collection has arrived and it's full of sophisticated styles including this elegant wrap style skirt. Dress down with sandals and a simple tank, or elevate for evening with strappy heels and bold coloured top.
Looking for a handbag that's practical in size and timeless in design? Now you can call off the search.
I'm welcoming in the warmer days with a summer time staple—linen shorts. Arket's tailored style is refined enough for all occasions from coffee dates to the office.
Classic, chic looks are built from great foundations, and a striped t-shirt is a versatile piece that should feature in any and all wardrobes.
Tank dresses are back in rotation as the warm weather arrives, and I have my sights set on this elevated style from Arket. Details like the dropped waist and neutral hue add to the overall premium feel.
If you like your classic wardrobe staples with a twist, look to this trench coat in a fresh light greige and oversize silhouette.
COS's swing crossbody bag has been a favourite amongst fashion people since it first released, and now it's available in a vibrant red shade.
From the soft balloon sleeves to the ruched waist, every part of this Arket dress feels so premium. Wear casually with ballet flats, or elevate for wedding season with strappy heels.
I've spotted so many knitted waistcoats cropping up from high designer to high street, and this is the sleekest I've found.
As we swap out heavy wool trousers for lighter linen styles for warmer days, these wide-leg trousers with a relaxed pull-on style should definitely be on your radar.
From dinners to coffee dates, this textured top with a twist strap detail is sure to add instant polish to any outfit.
& Other Stories is known for it's great denim, and this cropped barrel-leg style in a deep blue shade is currently top of my wish list.
We keep spotting bubble hems all over street style and our Instagram feeds, and this Zara skirt offers an elegant way to tap into the trend.
If you're yet to add a pair of sleek flats to your wardrobe, take this as your sign. Pair with tailoring, dresses, jeans and much more.
H&M's new-in section is full of sleek warm-weather pieces, but the cut and drape of these relaxed linen-blend trousers makes them a particular stand out.
I keep a pair of sunglasses with me all year round, and this refined style from COS is about to join my collection. The mix of gold hardware and tortoiseshell alongside the soft oval shape adds to the premium feel of this pair.
Take a reliable blazer silhouette, add an airy linen fabrication and versatile neutral hue and you get this hardworking piece from M&S.
Soon enough, we'll be pairing simple tanks with wide leg trousers or floaty skirts for the warmer days. Update your basic style with eternally chic stripes and an elegant boat neckline.
The mesh shoe trend is still going strong so expect to see these shoes paired with tailored trousers, midi skirts, jeans and more.
If excellent tailoring on the high street is what you're after, then look no further than Arket. Whilst their exquisitely cut wool-blend trousers come in versatile neutrals like brown and black, its the red that's caught my eye.
The elegant tank dress is one to rely on for years to come. Whilst the black is incredibly versatile, it also comes in a sunny yellow too.
You can always rely on a rich cream shade to elevate a staple piece. Note the adjustable strap and interesting asymmetric shape that combine form and function.
I added a green trench coat to my collection three weeks ago, and I've worn it almost every day since.
If you're looking to refresh your denim selection for the spring months, look to white and ecru shades in best-selling styles like COS's column jeans.
From the slight puff sleeve to the panelled waist, there's a lot to love about this dress.
We often turn to Arket for reliable staples, like a classic striped shirt that will feature in our outfit builds all year round.
With the warmer days, we're welcoming the return of linen styles to our outfit rotations. As such a spring and summer staple, it's worth spending a bit more on this premium pair, especially for the classic straight-leg cut and 100% linen fabrication.
& Other Stories knows that the finer details can set a piece apart. Just look at the organic-shaped silver buttons of this cardigan.
Layer over dresses, pair with tailoring, or go bold with a full denim look. This does come oversized, I went for a size XS and am a size 8 on top.
Trench coat season is here, and I have a feeling this luxe-looking linen style will move quickly.
I keep spotting fashion people in full a-line skirts, and this Zara style is the best I've found. Note the intricate box pleats, classic black shade and even features pockets.
Charles & Keith's iconic bag now comes in spring-ready canvas style.
Warm days are right around the corner, and I'm preparing my wardrobe with airy linen trousers.
A classic shirt will come in handy all year round, especially in this elevated shade.
The hard part is choosing between classic black or crisp white.
Add ease to getting ready with a jumpsuit, just add accessories.
Arket's handbag selection is so strong right now, but I can't stop thinking about this soft suede style.
From the bold black pipping to the fluid silhouette, this is at the top of my wish list.
A blazer is a modern wardrobe staple, and Marks & Spencer has just released this classic single-breasted style in three reliable shades; camel, black and grey.
With the countdown to spring underway, I've got my sights set on a denim update in the form of this chic wrap skirt.
If you're yet to add a waistcoat to your outfit rotations, COS makes a case with this elegant three-button style. Wear with jeans, tailoring or floaty skirts.
& Other Stories has combined the best of both worlds with this tote. First, the roomy shape is incredibly practical, and second, the suede finish adds endless polish.
We often find ourselves raving about H&M's tailoring selection, and the sharp pleats and relaxed cut of this pair feels particularly expensive.
The dress version of this sold out in the blink of an eye, so we're so excited that M&S has reconfigured the design into a skirt and top. The brilliance of a co-ord is the ease of getting dressed when combined, as well as the option to mix and match with other pieces for various outfits.
Ready for the milder months, Arket takes the comfort of a knit and pairs it with a utility design for this comfortable yet chic concoction.
The perfect neutral, this cool knit can be layered into your looks now, or effortlessly draped over shoulders on warmer days. The open-knit details give it a warm-weather edge, just in time for spring.
I've been on the hunt for a pair of trending flats that can serve both my day outfits and nighttime ensembles, and finally I can call off the search.
The latest addition to H&M's stellar tailoring selection, this blazer features a contemporary waisted style and spring-ready linen-blend.
These bold cuff turn-up jeans are selling quickly, and its easy to see why.
Spring is all about light layers, and a versatile denim shirt will work hard in any wardrobe.
The delicate draping is reminiscent of high-end styles, whilst the cream shade lets this easily blend with the rest of your wardrobe.
If your wardrobe is yet to feature a classic black dress, then look no further. The soft cap sleeve and subtle asymmetric hem primes this one for daytime styling with trainers or evenings with Zara's elegant mules above.
From the intricate weave to the burgundy shade, everything about this bag feels incredibly premium.
Boho core is having a revival thanks to Chloé's latest runway, and broderie anglaise styles are a smart way to embrace the style.
The sharp pleats and wide-leg cut create an endlessly elevated silhouette.
H&M knows that the finer details set a piece apart. Noted the longline silhouette and smattering of buttons that elevate this particular waistcoat.
I did a double-take when I first saw this pairing. The soft yellow shade feels particularly 2024.
Spring has arrived at Marks & Spencer in the form of these elegant sandals.
Gold and cream is such a premium-looking combination. Add in the eye-catching asymmetrical shape and collarless design, and you get this Zara winner.
Right now, fashion people are adding Arket's silk trousers into all their outfits from casual everyday with a t-shirt and trainers, to elegant evening with a smart top and heels.
So many of our editors have added this spring-ready denim dress to their wish lists recently.
In the blink of an eye warm spring days will be upon on us, and I plan to be wearing light linen trousers in this perfect shade of green all the way through to the end of summer. Plus, there's a matching blazer.
If you're yet to add a trench coat to your capsule wardrobe, COS offers a classic silhouette with a playful tie-style hood.
With Uniqlo's track record, we suspect this one will shortly be viral too. Just like the crossbody, its surprisingly roomy, and can even fit a laptop.
After a short hiatus, Arket's best-selling black blazer has been restocked.
Every capsule wardrobe features a classic striped shirt, and this one is set apart by the contrasting white cuffs and collar.
Denim styles are all over the runways and street style right now, and this sleek topstitch maxi skirt is the best I've found. Plus, it has pockets!
Looking for a sleek top to accompany your evening outfits or work ensembles? Look no further than COS's elegant scarf-detail blouse.
Marks & Spencer is one of the brands we always turn to for excellent tailoring on the high street. I'm also a big fan of the matching blazer.
I tried this cardigan on this week and can confirm firsthand how incredibly elegant it is.
Charles & Keith expertly curates premium-looking handbags at prices you'd never believe.
Almost every fashion person has Arket's cosy alpaca-blend jumper on their wish list, and now it comes in a classic stripe style.
We've long sung the praises of & Other Stories denim, and the cut of this pair feels incredibly current.
The appreciation for classic slingbacks is on the rise, and this pair is classic enough to last in your forever wardrobe.
Pair with jeans, tailored trousers or layered over a dress for a Parisian touch.
I'm always on the hunt for classic styles with a twist, and Arket's wrap shirt is everything I've been dreaming of.
Those in the know are well aware of H&M's sleek tailoring selection. And now, they've added these trending pinstripes to the selection.
The silhouette of this coat had me convinced it was a designer style.
Just when we thought COS's famous crossbody couldn't get any chicer, they go and bring out this khaki green version.
Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.
Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.
Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.
When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.
Emily is currently on maternity leave.
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