When it comes to our purse strings, there is a lot of value in scouring the British high street for a bargain. While many of us covet designer brands we see on our favourite A-listers, it is a relief to know that we can still look incredible in pieces that our favourite stores such as Arket and River Island.
Shopping on the high street does not mean we should have to scrimp on style, in fact there are plenty of retailers who are creating eco-conscious and luxurious garments which wouldn't look out of place in a high-end boutique.
To make your budget friendly shopping a little easier we've put together a list of our favourite pieces this week.
Hello! Fashion shares the most expensive-looking pieces to shop on the high street this week:
1/33
Red Peplum Long Sleeve Playsuit
River Island
Why it looks expensive: Tailored suiting styles are a favourite for many designer brands (we're looking at you Victoria Beckham) and when paired with a sculptural sweetheart neckline, things are elevated tenfold.
Editor's note: The festive season is perfect for a pop of red, but this playsuit option will look utterly chic all year round. Pair with sheer tights and pointed-toe pumps for an evening ensemble or with knee-high boots and a black blazer for an office-approved look.
2/33
Mohair-Blend Turtleneck Jumper
Why it looks expensive: Mohair is one of the world's most luxurious winter fibres, made from the wool of the Angora goat.
Editor's note: You can never go wrong both style-wise and practicality-wise with a cosy jumper. This white option is perfect for layering or wearing on its own.
3/33
Wool-Blend Suit Jacket
Mango
Why it looks expensive: Made from a virgin wool blend fabric in a dreamy brown hue, this belted blazer option could very well pass off as being from a designer house.
Editor's note: Blazers are a wardrobe hero like no other however with the temperatures continuing to drop, it's sometimes hard to find one that practical and chic to wear out and about. This woollen blend option not only will keep you warm, but the sleek removable belt accent allows you to add depth and shape to your ensemble. Style with matching pants or a mini skirt for an office-core look.
4/33
Studded Shoulder Bag
Stradivarius
Why it looks expensive: Spotted on the Acne Studios AW24 runway, studded bags have since taken the fashion world by storm and we're not even a tiny bit mad.
Editor's note: Haven't you heard? Studded bags are all the rage right now, just ask our Shopping Writer Chloe who has done a stellar job of convincing me I need one for myself.
5/33
Satin Ruched-Detail Maxi Dress
M&S
Why it looks expensive: Designed by Sienna Miller herself in collaboration with M&S, this silky green party-perfect dress has an A-Lister tick of approval.
Editor's note: There's something about 'brat' green that will forever scratch my fashion-loving brain in the right way. Opulent, bold and overly festive, this satin slip dress not only features a thigh-high slit but also has subtle waist ruching detailing which is always much appreciated post-festive lunch.
6/33
Scarf With Wool Blend
Reserved
Why it looks expensive: Far from just a regular cosy knit scarf, this cosy companion in a dreamy dusty rose hue is made from 28% wool.
Editor's note: When it comes to an easy yet chic autumn-coded look, a set of jeans, a cute sweater, an overcoat and a chunky scarf in a bold hue reigns supreme. This pink option is perfect for adding a pop of colour to any look and will keep you warmer than ever.
7/33
Asymmetrical Maxi-Earrings
Mango
Why it looks expensive: Statement earrings are loved in the fashion sphere for reasons that need no explanation. Bold options are often seen on the catwalk during Fashion Week.
Editor's note: Perfect for party season and beyond, these overly chic bold gold options from Mango pack a major high fashion punch. Style with a sleek dress, a matching suiting co-ord or your go-to cosy fit for an added touch of elevation.
8/33
Platform mule slippers
Boux Avenue
Why it looks expensive: Loved by the likes of Dua Lipa, Gigi Hadid and Chloë Sevigny, stylish chestnut-toned Ugg slippers and boots are an AW24 must.
Editor's note: Pair with slouchy socks like Bella Hadid or with long trousers for maximum comfort, these slippers needn't be limited to staying at home.
9/33
Halter Dress with Feather Decoration
Mango
Why it looks expensive: 16Arlington is famous for its party-season-approved mini dresses and this option from Mango looks like it could slot into one of its collections nicely.
Editor's note: Perfect for every upcoming soirée, festive brunch or a glamourous trip to the supermarket, this feather-adorned mini dress is cuter than cute and can be worn under a big overcoat with kitten heels, with tights and boots or over a set of tailored black trousers.
10/33
3 Multi-charm Necklace
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Charm necklaces on the whole have been having a major moment this year, included in collections from Chloé to Dior.
Editor's note: Despite the warmer weather being well and truly over and out for another year, one of the sunny season's most notable accessory trends is here to stay. Stacked charm necklaces instantly give any outfit a decadent focal point and can be worn with dresses, over knits and with simple crisp button-up shirts.
11/33
Minaudière With Golden Fastening
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Gold metal accented handbags will forever be a fashion favourite. From JW Anderson to Loewe, designer brands will always hero a striking accent.
Editor's note: Is it a clutch? Is it a crossbody? It's both! Perfect for those occasions when you need to go from day to night, this dreamy burgundy option looks seriously luxe and will elevate any outfit.
12/33
Endless Romance Off Shoulder Mini Dress
Peppermayo
Why it looks expensive: Polka dot print has made a triumphant return to the fashion realm, loved by the likes of Rita Ora and Kendall Jenner.
Editor's note: Balloon-style hemlines have been a major 2024 trend and they're not going anywhere soon. This ultra-cute open-back option is party-perfect and would look amazing with sheer black tights, pointed-toe pumps and a faux fur jacket.
13/33
Faux Fur Bag
Reserved
Why it looks expensive: Faux teddy bear fabric is loved and used in A/W collections throughout the fashion world and is peak cosy chic.
Editor's note: If you're in need of a seasonal go-to bag, this fluffy cross-body option is perfect for making any outfit autumnal-coded.
14/33
Snake Embellished Clutch
& Other Stories
Why it looks expensive: Schiaparelli is a huge lover of statement quirky bags adorned with gold fixtures and this snake option is giving the same energy.
Editor's note: It's hard to find a party-season black handbag that's not boring. This snake-adorned option is the perfect pop of fun for when you're in need of a simple going-out option but need a little pop of something.
15/33
Flat Mules
Stradivarius
Why it looks expensive: It's no secret that these black slides look like they could be from Gucci or Bottega.
Editor's note: Finding a footwear option that's both comfortable and chic when worn with trousers and dresses is harder than hard, but I think these slip-on options are just the ticket. I love the chunky sole and square toe shape and think they would look super cute with slouchy socks and a mini skirt or with a tailored suiting look.
16/33
Patent Effect Heeled Boots
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Heeled black boots are a fashion favourite and patent options have been making a statement on runways around the globe.
Editor's note: It's officially boot season and these patent-heeled options are perfect for the season ahead. Wear with sheer tights and your favourite LBD or with long jorts and a cosy knit for an elevated flare.
17/33
Bow Balloon Mini Skirt
Zara
Why it looks expensive: If you told me this itty bitty mini skirt was from the Miu Miu catwalk, I wouldn't even think twice.
Editor's note: Bows will forever be my favourite adornment, especially when made in a plush velvet fabric. As we all know, bubble hems are currently making fashion waves so this mini couldn't be more on trend.
18/33
Crop Blazer
Zara
Why it looks expensive: A cropped blazer with a statement button will forever be a wardrobe hero, loved by it-girls everywhere.
Editor's note: Perfect for throwing on over a plain white tee, pairing with a matching skirt for an office-approved look or simple with a set of jeans and a lacey bralette, a cropped blazer is as versatile as it gets.
19/33
Seamed Mini Dress
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Mini dresses in all forms will forever be in fashion, however this deep red hue is trending heavily right now.
Editor's note: Pair with sheer tights and your favourite knee-high boots for an autumnal pop of colour. I also love the idea of styling this over a peplum collared shirt.
20/33
Grey short buttoned military jacket
River Island
Why it looks expensive: Coat season never looked cuter and you best believe the fashion girls are about to cop this crop.
Editor's note: I can't stop thinking about this cropped coat layered over a floaty, frilly dress with chunky boots and a knitted head scarf.
21/33
Studded Mini Bucket Bag
Zara
Why it looks expensive: The fashion world is obsessed with the colour burgundy at the moment, making this itty bitty bag very on-trend for the autumn season.
Editor's note: I've said it over and over again but the fact remains the same - finding the perfect handbag is no easy feat. I love the size, shape, colour and material of this Zara option and think it would make the perfect arm candy accessory.
22/33
Rhinestone Embellished Jeans
H&M
Why it looks expensive: Embellished jeans are currently having a major street style moment, worn and loved by the likes of Dua Lipa and Charli XCX.
Editor's note: It's hard to find the perfect baggy jeans and these affordable options are the real deal. Style with heels and a button-up shirt or with an oversized graphic tee and sneakers.
23/33
Floral Disc Chord Necklace
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Statement jewellery will forever be a sign of luxury, used in collections around the world from Swarovski to Schiaparelli.
Editor's note: In all honestly I can't believe the price tag of this statement necklace. Wear with a plain white t-shirt for an extra pop, a slinky slip dress and matching orange heels for a date night dinner or with anything that needs a burst of fun.
24/33
Satin Dress with Lace Trim
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Stylish mavens including Sydney Sweeney and Victoria Beckham swear by a lace trim slip dress and both would love this Zara option.
Editor's note: Pair with knee-high boots for a night out or with strappy black heels for an elegant occasion. I also love the idea of wearing this under a baggy t-shirt with sneakers for an off-duty option.
25/33
Double Hoop Clip On Earrings
COS
Why it looks expensive: Chunky earrings in all forms are an accessory that makes any ear stack look luxe.
Editor's note: Not all of us have pierced ears and for those of us that do, heavy earrings are not a vibe. These clip-on options bost big luxury vibes without the hassle and pain of heavy ear candy.
26/33
Seashell Halter top
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Nothing beats a simple top with bold appliqué statements.
Editor's note: Perfect for when the dress code is "jeans and a cute top" this sweetheart neckline halterneck is just the ticket. I love the idea of wearing it with baggy jeans, a strappy heel and a slew of silver jewellery to match the shell appliqué.
27/33
Flowing blouse with ruffles
Stradivarius
Why it looks expensive: This ruffled blouse screams Chloé in the best way possible.
Editor's note: If it's good enough for Sienna Miller, it's good enough for me. If you're thinking of following in the aforementioned footsteps of one of the fashion sets most stylish, this blouse is just the ticket. Wear over a bikini and with baggy jorts or with a low-waist maxi skirt and a low-slung belt and revel in the compliments from it-girls everywhere.
28/33
Layered Double-Breasted Trench Coat
COS
Why it looks expensive: Finding a good trench coat is no easy feat and you can often tell from first glance whether or not it will stand the test of time. As you can see, this layered option from COS looks luxurious and will likely be a staple for years and years to come.
Editor's note: Although we're meant to be frolicking around the park in dainty linen dresses around this time of year, we can't change the UK weather, which often means a coat in summer is definitely needed. I love the idea of wearing a trench layer over a mini dress with boots as it's a light layer that will protect you from the unpredictable elements whilst keeping your ensemble sleek and chic.
29/33
Long Foil Halter Dress
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Made from metallic knit fabric, this weighted halterneck dress hugs all the right places which is always a sign of a well-made garment.
Editor's note: If you're on the hunt for a glamorous dress for your next date night dinner or holiday escape, please let it be this open-back, halterneck silver dress from Zara. Because it packs a punch on its own, you can get away with wearing a set of your favourite flat sandals.
30/33
Asymmetric Studded Belt
Stradivarius
Why it looks expensive: Both Sienna Miller and Rita Ora love a Y2K-inspired chunky belt, so why can't we?
Editor's note: Wear over a maxi skirt, slung on your hips over a mini dress or with your favourite pair of jeans, this studded belt is a one way ticket to it-girl status.
31/33
Vase graphic T-shirt
Pull & Bear
Why it looks expensive: Cool girls around the world are obsessed with oversized graphic tee's, donning them with lace skirts and chunky boots for all occasions.
Editor's note: Nothing beats a comfortable outfit that also looks cute and this boxy t-shirt is perfect for exactly that. Wear with shorts, a skirt, over a silk slip or with jeans and revel in the compliments.
32/33
Plain top with back buttons
Zara
Why it looks expensive: Because of the cut of this top this could easily be from Jacquemus or Cult Gaia.
Editor's note: Personally, matcha-green is one of my favourite hue's at the moment and it's made even better when in a knit fabric. I love the idea pg wearing this with a set of baggy Jorts and boots in the summer.
33/33
Lace dress with ruffle design
Mango
Why it looks expensive: Delicate lace delights are hard to find now that boho chic has made a resurgence thanks to Sienna Miller.
Editor's note: Though this is on the price side due to it being from Mango's 'Capsule' collection, it would be hard to find a dress as beautiful with a more affordable pricetag. Perfect for wedding guest events, date night dinners, layered under an over sized t-shirt or on its own, this match-green delight is set to be a sell-out.
How we chose the pieces:
Aesthetic: After combing through the internet's top high street fashion websites, we have selected the pieces that look categorically luxe. Despite boasting a modest price point, these buys could be mistaken for designer. That could mean a beautiful, flattering bias cut, a carefully constructed print, rich embellishment or another thoughtful design detail.
Price: We have tried to keep pieces in this edit affordable, under the £250 mark, except for items made from precious materials.
Why you should trust me:
I am Hello! Fashion’s Fashion Features Writer. With a love for all things fashion (the quirkier the better), I can usually be found playing dress-up in my own wardrobe, watching Gilmore Girls for the 8th time or finding new outfit inspo and DIY musts on TikTok, nothing in my closet is safe from a safety-pin bow embellishment. I have been in the styling world for almost 5 years now, specialising in editorial features, luxury campaigns and music videos. As for the world of magazines, I have worked for various digital and print publications around the world, focusing on fashion. Basically, fashion is my bread and butter.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
