You might assume it’s impossible to find premium-looking clothing on the high street, but a clever cut, a rich colourway or a quality material blend is often all it takes for a piece to pass for designer. Winter is a costly time of year, fashion-wise. Coats, boots and chunky knits typically come with eye-watering price tags, so it’s more important than ever to shop smart and maximise your budget.
When sifting through the thousands of frugal buys out there, there are a few things you can do to develop a more discerning eye and filter out the clearly cheap pieces. Firstly, I suggest sticking to a colour palette of classic neutrals. Minimal designs always look the most expensive, in my opinion, and will help you tap into the anti-trend aesthetic that's everywhere this year. Look out for considered details like a wide sleeve, covered buttons or a pointed toe. This kind of seemingly small design choice will instantly add polish to your outfit.
Knee-high boots have been a particular saviour for me recently—slip them on with leggings and your favourite knit for a reliable winter look. I'm also convinced that gold-toned jewellery makes it seem like you've put in ten times more effort (without fail) and the addition of a wool coat will make you feel like you're dressed in luxury, too.
For more inspiration, keep scrolling to see five expensive-looking winter outfits I've assembled with affordable pieces from the high street. And yes, I've linked them below, so you can add them to your own wardrobe in no time.
1. Longline Coat + Tailored Trousers + Slingbacks
Style Notes: When it comes to dressing as a minimalist, look to the finer details to make even the simplest outfit a standout. The wool coat features a striking scarf detail, the tailored trousers have sharp pleats that feel seriously premium, and the slingbacks come in an elevated shade, making for a timeless and impressive overall look.
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We're still obsessing over chic scarf coats.
The perfect finishing touch.
A handy layer on particularly chilly days.
It's hard to beat COS's excellent tailoring.
The bag that consistently sells out.
You'd never guess these were just £28.
2. Striped Knit + Trench Coat + Wide-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: On casual days, don't underestimate your basics. A simple striped knit needs little more than considered accessories to feel fashion-forward.
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Ready to protect against sudden showers and look good doing it.
The wrap neckline sets this striped knit apart.
Gold accents will bring this look to life.
You can't go wrong with blue wide-leg jeans.
A beauty we return to time and time again.
The ruched details are so designer looking.
3. Simple Dress + Knee High Boots + Elevated Accessories
Style Notes: Trust me when I say you'll get so much wear out of an elegant black dress that can go from day to night. Here, I'm imagining a dinner date on a cool winter day, layering in trusted knee-high boots, bold gold jewellery and an elegant coat.
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Timeless and sure to be treasured for years to come.
Just wait until you see the back.
A great pair of knee high boots will work hard in your wardrobe.
Wear on its own, or stack up for extra impact.
Plus, it comes with a longer strap for crossbody wear.
I did a double take at the price of these bangles.
4. Fluffy Jacket + Satin Trousers + Chelsea Boots
Style Notes: On days when you can't decide what to wear, stick to neutral shades and lean into textures. Take the soft nature of a fluffy coat, add in contrasting sleek satin trousers and ground the whole look with chunky boots for a cool and cosy look.
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The collar is such a standout.
Cream and gold is an enduring pairing.
I've got a pair of these and can confirm they're as cosy as they are chic.
Satin trousers will bring a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Chic and practical in equal measure.
A staple piece in any wardrobe.
5. Knit Set + Wool Coat + Tonal Accessories
Style Notes: Nothing looks quite as put-together as a matching co-ord, especially when it comes in this soft mole shade. For added elegance, stick to tonal accessories with a brown belt and heels, and compliment the chocolate tones with a cosy navy coat.
Shop the look:
This comes in a range of classic shades.
I'm so obsessed with this colour.
Mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe.
A belt will bring a considered edge to this knit co-ord.
These are already moving quickly.
The shape of this bag is exquisite.
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