When it comes to shopping on the high street, I’m quite particular. Nowadays, I prefer to shop small but on occasion when I revert to the high street, Mango, COS, Other Stories and Arket are the quartet to rely on. Boasting premium-looking pieces at sensible price points, their considered silhouettes and wearable designs stand out as worthwhile investments in comparison to the competition.
The standard of the high street is levelling up, and many of the recently released pieces from these four brands feel as luxurious as can be. For this reason, you’ll often see their garments integrated into high-low looks worn by celebrities, editors and influencers alike—take Sienna Miller at this year's Glastonbury in Mango's cocoa-hued minidress as a great example of Mango's pared-back excellence. Kate Middleton and Jessica Alba were also spotted in Mango pieces just last month.
As we head further into winter, hero pieces for the season are already making themselves known. Take COS's leather trench for example, or Other Stories' elevated tops. These pieces are just a cut above the rest and will have a place in your wardrobes for many years to come.
Mango Glitter high heeled shoes (£60)
COS’s star buys include the ultimate leather trench coat and a simple black tube dress that ticks off one of the season's most popular trends and manages to feel grown-up and timeless. And their offering of perfectly tailored trousers only continues to grow and improve. Meanwhile, over at Arket, basics are the pieces to zone in on first—think elevated outerwear and classic knits, as well as some incredible footwear that could so easily pass for designer. Its arsenal exceeds basics, though, and you'll also find the odd flash of silver (which is back for AW22) and pops of colour not to miss.
Fabric is something I’m most intrigued by, and all of these brands continue to appease the more conscious shoppers among us, at least with their more premium pieces. With innovative textiles such as Naia and the increased use of Lyocell, the materials are produced more consciously and with longevity in mind.
Keep reading for some of the standout pieces from COS, Arket, Other Stories and Mango this season, including many party pieces as well as transitional items you can count on each year.
Shop My High-Street Edit:
1. & OTHER STORIES
Style Notes: From classic coats to timeless knits and great denim, Other Stories is proving to be a prime contender for the kinds of items you can wear in many outfit combinations for seasons and years to come.
Look no further than this exquisite piece if you're after a top with some added intrigue. The twisted detail is often featured on designer pieces.
A chic and toasty piece you can count on every single winter. Plus, the quality is exceptional.
Between the colour, boat neckline and ruched detailing it's nothing short of perfection.
Many factors make up this exquisite design - from the glossy finish and buttoned cuffs to the dipped cowl neckline.
I've tried this on in-store and it's just as cosy as it looks. Stripes aren't going anywhere so it's a worthy investment.
Micro miniskirts were popular for SS22, and it seems they’re here to stay. This pleated mini bears a resemblance to designer styles. My favourite part it’s crafted from lyocell and cotton. Pair it with tights, riding boots and a substantial knit.
Everything about these jeans is perfect, from the fit to the deep-indigo hue. I think Parisian style mavens would approve.
It's the year of the pointed knee-high boot and this pair by Other Stories pair is soft to the touch.
A great 'going out out' top if fancy tops aren't your thing.
Stories' collection does not disappoint when it comes to the consideration of textiles and shapes. This is a classic, super-soft black coat with a tailored twist. You'll bring this out year after year - trust me, I've had this exact coat for over 5 years!
This is the dress of dreams, from the silky bias slip to the wide-gaped back. Add heels, a low bun and lipstick for the ultimate date-night look. It's also available in a metallic hue for the party season, of course.
There's no shortage of nice tops this season. This style is great for people who want to make a subtle statement. The ruching is detail enough.
If we could encapsulate A/W 2022 in a shoe it would be gem-encrusted. After the popularity of Mango's designer-esque glitzy shoe, we're seeing more high-street offerings. These will dress up any outfit.
2. MANGO
Style Notes: Mango’s offering is so strong this year, with many neutral tones taking precedence. Whether it’s taupe, brown, or coffee, there are colours to suit all skin tones. As seen here Camille models her Mango collection with a maxi dress bearing an overstated cut-out.
If you're missing flouncy blouses this winter, look to floral blouses on darker backgrounds. There's a touch of gothic Victoriana about this piece with the pop of white embroidery against the black.
The exaggerated o-shaped cut-out isn't going anywhere, and it looks particularly flattering on knitwear this winter.
Wear an understated outfit with these statement earrings and you'll be party ready in an instant.
The collective consensus when it comes to loving platform shoes is a resounding yes - from the cult Versace medusa platform to Nodaleto's bulla babies. The high street has released some equally chic iterations to see us through this season and beyond. You needn't worry about these going out of style because they'll be relevant every festive season.
We may be in the depth of a chilly winter, but this blouse is too good to pass us. Either layer underneath a sleeveless vest with the sleeves poking through or save it for sunnier days on the horizon. It's a piece that'll never lose relevance.
Mango's Glitter heeled shoe sold old instantly and the second run didn't last much longer. I have a feeling this pair will follow suit.
I'm loving the resurgence of ‘90s-style shoulder bags this year. This style will lend a polished feel to any outfit. Wear it anywhere from work meetings to off-duty weekends.
These knee-high boots are some of the best I’ve seen on the high street. From the clean-cut leather to the elongated leg, it’s reminiscent of its designer counterparts.
Winter appropriate cut-outs. Honestly, I'm surprised this style hasn't sold out yet.
Camille Charriere x Mango gave us many gems, one of which was these gem-encrusted mules- just in time for party season. It’s a nod to Y2K that I can get on board with.
3. ARKET
Style Notes: Arket graces us with basics year-round, and its jeans in particular are exemplary for the standard of the British high street. This season, its styles have expanded, giving way to some fanciful shapes and silhouettes, all whilst keeping in line with the minimalist, cool-girl aesthetic. We can't ignore their outerwear and boots selections either.
If like me you're swooning over the scarf coat trend, you'll love this cape coat by Arket. It may look unassuming but trust me, it’s magic. Belt it in at the waist and wear it with the scarf detail placed nonchalantly over the shoulder.
Arket's Hopsack blazer is an all-time bestseller that is restocked again and again. That’s the ultimate testament to its longevity.
Everyone needs a rollneck in their arsenal and this one is of the highest quality.
I adore a full skirt and the grace and movement it lends to a look. Arket created a voluminous skirt you can count on for every festive season.
A woollen scarf that's both chic and blanket-like is worth investing in. Due to the popularity of scarf coats scarves are becoming bigger and bolder and due to the practicality, it’s not a style that’s likely to date.
It's the perfect time to mix and match textures. This bouclé knit is a classic jumper with extra bobbly detail.
It's getting nippy outside and I have a feeling this chic but cosy coat will fly off the shelves.
I'm completely influenced by Parisian fashion at the moment and this two-piece is a nod to the inherited tweed styles. Add the matching skirt and riding boots and commit to a top-to-toe French-inspired look.
Although Breton is a forever staple the release of Toteme's cult sweater in 2019 gave us a new appreciation of striped knits. Now they are everywhere. This is a chic knit sweater hybrid.
The neutral colourway, scooped neckline and raglan sleeves make this so much more than a basic. It’s also 100% (RWS certified) wool. Win-win!
The modern ballet flat features an extended opening that allows for more comfort and is ultimately more flattering.
Don't sleep on the high street when it comes to cashmere. I have pieces that I've had for several years, and the quality remains intact. The trick is a fabric shaver/cashmere comb and folding them inside out.
Cable knits lend a vintage feel to every outfit. Style this with straight-leg jeans and pointed-toe boots for an off-duty look.
Don't forget you can purchase Veja sneakers from Other Stories too! I intend on wearing these styles until spring.
4. COS
Style Notes: COS's outerwear and knitwear has been so good recently that it's become somewhat iconic within the industry. If you spot an influencer wearing a chic longline coat or oversized knit these days, there's an extremely high chance it will be from COS.
COS' black crossbody bag was so popular that they released many other colourways - including this woody auburn.
This is one of my favourite tops on the high street right now. It's unassuming at the front and subtly sexy at the back the ultimate update of the poplin shirt.
Leather is timeless, but it certainly seems to be having a moment for winter '22 if the new-in collections are anything to go by. This piece is an investment but it's real leather and will age beautifully.
It's very seldom I find high street party dresses in natural fabrications, but COS has done it with this style. It also comes with straps, so you can wear it one of two ways.
Cashmere unlocks top-tier comfort, and this oat hue is the chicest shade. This jumper comes with matching trousers.
If you purchase one party item this year, I recommend a silk midi dress. This particular style features a halter neck and adjustable ties. It has a timeless appeal and can transcend each season, give, or take a few layers.
From the pristine fit to the tortoiseshell button this blazer is perfect. Scroll for the matching trousers!
I’m a sucker for high-quality compositions. It’s a factor that contributes to the longevity of a garment. Crafted from 100% wool, and with a faint herringbone pattern, it’s a classic piece you can wear in and out of the office.
Everyone needs a luscious black midi in the winter and this COS offering (fashioned from 100% wool), is guaranteed to keep the cold at bay. A similar ribbed version is available here.
I'm in awe of this knitted two-piece. It also comes in dark navy.
This is so refined it could easily cost you three times the price from another brand. I adore the full-skirted look which balances the striking fabrication.
Wear the jumper with the matching skirt for a tonal look. It's an easy and chic pairing.
Nothing says winter quite like the influx of cashmere slippers on premium retailer sites. This is one for the Christmas wish list.
Up Next: Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: The 21 Looks You Need to Know About
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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