How To Make High-Street Fashion Look Expensive
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Check the fabric. Avoid anything with a polyester blend, and stick to natural materials and fibres such as cotton, silk, wool and linen. From a longevity perspective, this will provide maximum cost per wear (assuming you also take care of the item properly). Cut is another consideration. I’m always looking for exaggerated lapels, extra darting or oversized cuffs on a blazer, while the length is so important for dresses. The difference between an expensive-looking midi dress and one that doesn’t quite hit the mark often only comes down to a couple of inches.
Go for timeless pieces that transcend the seasons. While that’s a sage piece of advice, I’d also suggest you can use the high street as an opportunity to pick up more fashion-forward pieces at a fraction of the price. Either way, keep an eye on details like the type of buttons on a blazer or the heel on a pair of shoes.
Try before you buy. Online shopping is convenient, but going into a physical store is a more valuable exercise. Seeing and feeling items before you buy them can save you hours in the Post Office queue or the dreaded Zara returns line.
Go oversized. Sizing up is a quick and easy way to make something look more expensive than it is. I am a size 10 but I usually wear a 12 or 14 in blazers.
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Get things tailored. You can often find a tailor or seamstress in your local dry cleaners, and having something fitted to your exact measurements is a small investment that will instantly make a high-street piece look more expensive. SoJo in Selfridges is another great option for alterations. I have big thighs and a small waist, so a size 10 often fits me on the leg, but it is usually too big around the waist. That’s why I have had nearly all my suit trousers tailored.
Check out the big retailers’ premium ranges. Buying into these collections gives you some exclusivity that you don’t get from regular high-street shopping. Plus, they’re often made from higher quality fabrics and the styles are more elevated – which explains why the price point is a little higher. The quality means you can wear these pieces time and again, and they feel newer for longer.
And here are some of the premium ranges Nana really rates…
Massimo Dutti
Its new limited-edition collection features classic silhouettes in tonal shades, with pops of red running throughout. The leather accessories are the standouts.
Visit MassimoDutti.com
H&M Studio
One for the fashion girls, H&M Studio drops twice a year and instantly sells out. Full of oversized silhouettes, fitted dresses and classic tailoring, it always gives designer vibes.
Visit HM.com
Whistles Limited Edition
Full of design-led and staple investment pieces, the limited-edition collection from Whistles will instantly add style points to your wardrobe.
Visit Whistles.com
Zara Limited Edition
Each collection has its own identity but, like anything Zara, items quickly go viral and sell out. The current collection features jacquard, organza, sheer and sequin pieces – all perfect for summer.
Visit Zara.com
Mango Capsule Collection
This is occasionwear at its finest. Full of statement mini and maxi dresses, tailoring, pops of colour and texture, the latest edit is perfect for wedding season, the races or any summer party.
Visit Mango.com
Mint Velvet
Mint Studio is such a go-to for wardrobe staples, great tailoring, and statement dresses. Feathers, fringing and ruffles – it does that kind cool, relaxed glamour so well.
Visit MinVelvet.com
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