H&M, Mango and Zara are, without a doubt, the new-in sections I head straight for as soon as I feel the urge to shop. Often, pursuing them is enough to help that urge subside, but lately, when I have indulged in a scrolling break at work, I’ve found myself adding more pieces to my basket than ever. That’s not to say I buy everything that ends up in there, but it makes for a good place to make my comparisons and work out how much my desired pieces might altogether cost me, but the number of items that usually make the cut is three or four—five at a push.
Zara Bustier Waistcoat with Lapel Collar (£46)
However, at Zara, H&M, and Mango respectively, my virtual baskets have been bursting over with pieces so chic even I, a fashion editor who has spent a decade scrutinising whether something is worth buying or not, have found it hard to whittle my wish list down to a respectable size. It took time and a lot of willpower, but after analysing every item, I truly believe that, below, I’ve outlined the nine best pieces you’ll find at each brand right now. I’ve deliberately stuck to a classic colour palette, ensuring these finds are versatile and classic in the process, with the goal of maximising their wearability. If you’re looking to update your wardrobe with something fresh for summer from the high street, do so mindfully via my handpicked edit.
Waistline cutouts are a massive dress trend this season.
Oversize blazers have the power to make all of your outfits look cooler.
The perfect summer trouser.
A handy tote I’d carry anywhere, from the beach to brunch.
It’s Britain, so we all know a jacket can’t be too far out of our reach in summer.
So pretty.
Honestly, I’d believe you if you told me these were designer.
I have a thing for rectangular sunglasses—as foes all of fashion apparently.
This chic midi also comes in black.
This dress has already sold out in the beige colourway.
The basket bag, reimagined.
Another co-ord I’ve fallen hard for.
The perfect summer trouser 2.0.
I’ve seen this dress in real life, and it is dreamy.
I’m not over crochet—not by a long shot.
These made it from basket to my own wardrobe.
I want to recreate this entire outfit for my next night out.
Prints like this keep cropping up in designer collections; now, Mango is leading the high-street charge.
The white summer dress gets an unexpected update with perspex chain straps. I’m here for it.
I love the retro cut of these cropped jeans.
The bag of the season—a woven tote.
So chic.
Zara always delivers on gold jewellery.
This shade of blue will always be on trend.
Try pairing this graphic midi with an oversize linen shirt in orange or green.
I kept seeing influencers in these sandals—I assumed they were The Row, not Zara!
This will work just as well over swimwear as it will worn with a slip skirt or jeans.
