• Head for the Flagship – ‘You’ll find the hottest items in flagship locations. For example, Zara on Bond Street has more of those winning directional pieces you won’t see in stores outside London’ – Yasmin Sewell, fashion consultant.
• Invest in classics – ‘A pair of elegant court shoes should be a wardrobe staple. My favourites this season are taupe suede pointed courts with contrasting patent toes- timeless.’ – Annick Gorman, creative director, LK Bennett.
• Stay hands-free – ‘Never take a handbag on a high street mission – you need both hands to shop. Just shove a small compact mirror (so you can see how you look from all angles) and your credit card in your back pockets.’ – Lulu Kennedy, director, Fashion East.
• Customise – ‘I always like to customise my high street purchases by raising hemlines, turning T-shirts into dresses, changing buttons on coats and adding studs to my accessories – that way I know that my clothes will always look unique.’ – Ben Grimes, model and designer.
• Mix and Match – ‘Always buy basics like cool tank tops and leggings from the high street. You can layer them under bodices and mix them up with designer and vintage pieces for a really individual look.’ – Annette Felder, designer, Felder Felder.
• Forecast to Last – ‘Invest in a pair of summer brogues this season. They’re easily dressed up or down, and equally on trend with playsuits or coloured jeans. For a vintage look, wear them with a ditsy print 1940’s style tea dress. They’re a practical buy, too, because they’ll take you into autumn/winter.’ – Sandy Verdon, creative director, Hobbs.
• Be decisive – ‘As indulgent and consumerist as it sounds, never think twice about a high street purchase if it fits like a dream and gets you excited. The fast stock turnover in shops means you won’t find it again if you wait.’ – Carrie Gorman, acting web editor, ELLEUK.com.
• Accessorise – ‘Accessories are a good way to buy into the trends of the season, whatever your shape, lifestyle and budget. With more high street retailers expanding their ranges, the choice is ever-increasing.’ – Bell Robinson, co-owner of Jigsaw.
• Stick to your budget – ‘To prevent yourself over-shopping, give yourself a budget, take out the exact cash and leave your credit card safely at home.’ – Stacey Duguid, executive fashion editor, ELLE.
• Don’t be cheap – ‘The British high street offers so much choice. Shop around, do your research and – crucially- don’t always go for the cheapest thing. A bad chain or setting can let down an otherwise beautiful piece of jewellery or handbag.’ – Kara Ross, jewellery designer.
• Go for limited editions – ‘Seek out limited edition items as these are the high street pieces which push design boundaries. They’re made of the most beautiful fabrics, which give them more longevity in your wardrobe. Plus, you have the added benefit of being one of the lucky few to wear them.’ – Nadia Jones, creative director, Oasis.
• Keep it in proportion – ‘Make sure you try everything on, stick within your budget and always look out for good basics. Wearing flats is a good idea but carry a pair of high heels to check proportions, and make sure you aren’t too tempted by overcrowded sale rails. If no one else wants it, why would you?’ – William Tempest, designer.
There’s so much more to read if you pick up your own copy, it really is a must-read. Also check out ELLE magazines great website for more articles and tips at http://www.elleuk.com/.
Love Katie x
