My Friend Wants an Elegant Wardrobe On a Strict Budget—9 Zara, COS and H&M Buys I Sent Her
Ready for an elevated wardrobe update? These are the most sophisticated buys on the high street right now.
Finally, February is upon us. For some, it's a chance to check in with our New Year's Resolutions. For my best friend, she went into 2026 with the intention of shopping more thoughtfully this year. If you're as interested in fashion as we are, one of your goals for the year may be based around your wardrobe, whether that's leaning into your personal style, finally collating your capsule wardrobe, or being smarter with your money. For my best friend, it's the latter, and with a shopping editor to hand, she set me a task of hunting down expensive-looking high street buys that will instantly bring the polish she's searching for, without breaking the bank. Truthfully, it's been a lot of fun.
My daily routine is focused on sourcing the best buys. A few hours are spent hunting down elevated, affordable buys, then researching the most notable luxury investments of the season, and finally tracking the rise of fresh yet enduring trends. With it comes a pretty concrete understanding of where to look for sophisticated buys that don't require months of saving, and now I'm putting all my expertise to the test to curate an edit of budget-friendly buys that could trick any onlooker into thinking they're designer investments.
Shopping budgets can look different for everyone, and for my friend, she's focused on a few smart additions that come in at under £100. Naturally, I headed straight to Zara, H&M and COS, trusting their reliability in creating elevated buys with an affordable edge. This trio of high street heroes knows how effective subtle details can be, whether it's a bold collar or interesting button motif; the understated effects can be striking. After a few hours of searching, I put together a selection of budget-friendly shopping ideas for her to peruse, covering trusted tailoring, easy outerwear, and a few accent accessories that make reliable outfits feel fresh. Whilst I tried to whittle down my selection to 9 standout buys, you'll also find a few extras that I simply had to share. Now, scroll on for an instant infusion of elegance.
Shop the 9 Best Zara, COS and H&M New-In Buys
The bomber jacket has been updated for 2026. Now, look for striking high-neck collars and bold patch pockets.
If you're on the hunt for great jeans, editors and fashion people are adding the Reprise jeans to basket.
I did a double take when I first saw this handbag.
This sleek piece comes from H&M's latest Studio Collection edit. Note the silk-blend material, bringing a luxe touch to affordable dressing.
I've tried these on and can confirm they're even better in person.
Your trusted cardigan just got a fresh new update.
Zara's high neck buttoned blazers keep selling out, and for good reason. Snap this up before it sells out.
The shade! The fit! The buttons! The fined details of this knit are exquisite.
This whole look is worth replicating.
These boots have all my attention. Pair with denim, tailoring, slowing skirts and more.
Shop More Zara, COS and H&M Buys
The crinkled texture adds to the elevated look of this jacket.
Look to rich shades, like burgundy, to bring an elevated finish.
Stylish women are swapping out trainers for polished loafers, and this pair has already made its way into my wardrobe.
A classic shirt is undeniably versatile, and even more refined in a deep brown shade.
The classics can be seriously effective.
Brighten up your neutral looks with a touch of sunny lemon.
Zara seamlessly brings together smart-casual trousers for office and off-duty looks.
Bring a sophisticated finish to any outfit by layering in this belted blazer.
COS is known for its elevated knitwear. Made from 100% wool.
The cut of these trousers is just so good. Add to your forever collection.
Layer in sleek jewellery for instant impact.
This comes in black and cream, but this bold red shade is sure to rejuvenate reliable looks.
Sharp pleats, a wide-leg silhouette and a timeless shade.
Refined accessories can make even the simplest jeans and T-shirt effortlessly elevated.
