With thousands of products dropping online every week, it can be overwhelming to find the pieces that are actually worth adding to your shopping basket. Luckily, as fashion editors for YOU Magazine, we spend a lot of time scrolling through online 'new in' sections, so we have loads of experience separating the naff from the not-to-be-missed. Want to know which shops and items are worth shopping this week? Read on for our round-up of the best affordable buys that have just arrived on the high street.
Sophie Dearden-Howell, Fashion Director
Fashion director Sophie Dearden-Howell in Next and Topshop. The high street is amazing right now, with summer products finally arriving in our favourite high street stores. If I need a wardrobe refresh, Next is always my first point of call. I recently invested in these long shorts from the brand. They are a trend that has left the office divided — it is the marmite of fashion trends this season. However, my vote is firmly 'for' them. They are incredibly chic, grown up and look effortless. I have also just added these Next flip flops to my summer rotation. The leather-look makes them feel sophisticated and less scruffy than their plastic counterparts. Topshop is also a favourite spot of mine after its relaunch last year. I have recently shopped this napkin top from them. It is a style that is everywhere at the moment, but most are too skimpy or see-through for me. This option, however, is lined and has a secure buttoned fastening so there is no risk of anything coming undone.
- Topshop Bandana top
- Next Thong sandals
- Next Jute bag
- Next Jorts with scarf belt
Jessica Carroll, Junior Style Editor
Junior style editor Jessica Carroll in French Connection. One of my favourite high street stores right now has got to be French Connection. The iconic British brand has become my go-to for summer dressing, thanks to its cool, laid-back pieces and price points that will not break the bank. When I saw these Bermuda shorts on the site, I knew I had to invest. Cut to the perfect above-knee height, in a chic beige colourway, they are perfect for strolling around the city — or even for the office if a heatwave hits. I paired them with this gorgeous gingham top, with a flattering cinched waist and sweet button detailing. Gingham can sometimes feel a little chintzy so I tend to avoid it. However, this gorgeous chocolate brown design feels grown up and sophisticated. I am sold!
- French Connection Asymmetric top
- French Connection Denim shorts
- Le Specs Tort sunglasses (Was £65)
Sophie Hines, Lifestyle and Digital Director
Lifestyle and digital subscriptions director Sophie Hines in Mint Velvet. This summer I am turning my attention to dresses, after an entire winter spent in my uniform of crew-neck jumpers and wide-leg trousers. Mint Velvet is one of my favourite high street brands, and this dress is an absolute winner. It is black, which means it is incredibly versatile — I have dressed it down with sandals and a raffia bag here, but you could easily dress it up with kitten heels and a blazer. I love the scalloped necklace and flattering fit-and-flare shape. This is one of those ideal throw-in-your-suitcase dresses that will be worn endlessly on a summer holiday.
- Mint Velvet Midi dress
- Mint Velvet Beaded sandals
- Mint Velvet Tote bag
Hannah Skelley, Fashion Editor
Fashion editor Hannah Skelley in & Other Stories. The top brand on my hotlist? & Other Stories has never looked so good. Think lightweight bomber jackets in saccharine pastel shades, silk billowing blouses, trending woven leather tote bags and occasion-ready dresses — that are not 100% polyester — for under £100. Owned by the H&M group, the brand stands out among competitors for its Scandi-inspired, playful, luxe-looking designs — and that is all thanks to the new creative director, Jonathon Saunders, who took up the post last year. The renowned Scottish designer has previously consulted for Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton, sharing his expert use of print, colour, and traditional silk-screening techniques. When you shop here, you are technically scooping up a piece of high-end high street.
- & Other Stories Mini skirt (Was £67)
- & Other Stories Polo-knit cardigan (Was £119)
- & Other Stories Slingback sandals (Was £97)
Tracey Sayer, Head of Channel
Head of channel Tracey Sayer in F&F and Next. Sometimes you try something on, and it feels just right. Slip me into a well-cut two-piece and I feel confident, comfortable and most importantly myself. In fact, I feel like I can achieve almost anything in a great suit. And this F&F suit has it all going on. The baggy, soft structured jacket is giving me Don Johnson in Miami Vice, the trousers have a secret elastic panel at the back and the beautiful burgundy tone is chef's kiss! I had so many compliments on this look when I wore it to an event the other day. Women were queuing up to ask me where it was from. One even stopped me in the street. I grinned back at her and said, 'Thanks so much! It is F&F at Tesco, I picked it up with my weekly shop'.
- F&F Double breasted blazer
- F&F Pleated trousers
- Next Tote bag
