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Is there anything better than getting a compliment on your outfit when it was a bargain high-street find? We’d argue no.
This autumn, big-name brands like H&M, Mango, M&S and Arket have pulled out all the stops with their new collections, and we’ve been busy scrolling through it all to bring you our top picks.
Best of all, some of these pieces look a lot more expensive than their price tags suggest, so you can look and feel your best without breaking the bank or compromising on quality.
There are tailored trousers, silky, satin tops, structured jackets, chunky knits, and even handbags that look designer, while costing a fraction of the price.
From faux leathers to merino wools, we’ve factored in every budget, style and personal taste to our high-street shopping list, with pieces you can wear to work, build out a capsule wardrobe or give your closet an autumnal glow-up.
Forget chasing trends with one-off purchases that will be out of date by next year, we’ve made sure to include timeless, elegant styles that will get plenty of wear and be worth of the splurge, while keeping everything under £50.
So what are you waiting for?
Here’s the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street right now
M&S Satin Cowl Neck Top
This is the kind of top that is perfect for a jeans-and-a-nice-top type of evening, but can also be worn with your favourite work trousers. The jewel-toned colour looks extra expensive, while the satin finish dresses up even the most casual outfits.
Buy Now for £36
Mango V-neck Knit Sweater
Cobalt is everywhere, and Mango’s knitwear does it best. The V-neck means you can layer a white T-shirt or crisp, pinstripe shirt underneath when it’s properly cold, or on its own to let the vibrant colour do all the talking.
Buy Now for £36.99
H&M Tailored Twill Trousers
A good quality pair of trousers like these is a game-changer for your wardrobe, and a smarter alternative to your favourite jeans. Team with loafers and a jumper to look put-together in the office, or with heels and a blazer for more important meetings where you want to look your best. Did we mention they’re less than £30?
Buy Now for £27.99
River Island Green Faux Leather Corset Pencil Midi Skirt
This skirt is doing the most, in the best way. The faux leather certainly doesn’t look it, and the pencil midi shape is flattering and can be paired with pretty much any colour. We’re thinking of wearing this with knee-high boots and a long-sleeve black bodysuit.
Buy Now for £46
Nobody’s Child Ivory V Neck Knitted Vest
Eat your heart out, Sézane. This ivory knitted vest is the perfect cosy addition to your winter wardrobe, and ideal for layering over t-shirts and under coats. The sleeveless design means it won’t leave you overheating on your commute but still keeps you warm enough when temperatures drop.
Buy Now for £45
Arket Long-Sleeved Merino Top
Another bright blue piece we can’t get enough of is this merino wool top from Arket. Merino wool is the secret weapon of anyone trying to look expensive on a budget – it drapes better, breathes better, and simply looks better than synthetic knits. This long-sleeved top is fine-gauge and fitted without clinging, making it perfect for layering under blazers or wearing solo with wide-leg trousers.
Buy Now for £45
ASOS DESIGN Lemonade Chisel Toe Ballets in Zebra
These zebra print shoes are edgier than your usual ballet flats thanks to the chisel to design, but are just as easy to slip on with tailored trousers, midi and mini skirts for a statement finishing touch to any outfit.
Buy Now for £30
River Island Cream Premium Funnel Neck Sweatshirt
Elevated loungewear at its finest is this funnel neck sweatshirt that can be worn with jeans and jeans, capris, or leggings for a light but stylish layer.
Buy Now for £44
H&M Loafers
This pair are the ultimate budget buy for anyone building an autumn shoe rotation. Complete with a classic silhouette that works with everything, they're an easy way to enjoy the loafer trend without spending a fortune.
Buy Now for £27.99Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
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