Style clinic
Dear Style Clinic,
Now that the high street has opened again, I don’t want to spend my time and money buying clothes and accessories I don’t need. What should I be going into real chain shops for?
If it’s service and something different you’re after, you’re best to head for your local independents shops, who really need our support right now. Vintage and preloved shops, in particular, are where you will be able to find one-off pieces you won’t see anywhere else.
That said, our UK high street and department stores have much to offer (and, of course, they employ local people and encourage shoppers to visit everyone). Value shops such as Matalan and New Look have been the most searched online during lockdown and the queues at Primark since opening suggest the UK shopper may well have concerns about over-spending on fashion.
My tip for shopping in the budget high street fashion shops is to look for pieces that stand out immediately to you and look far more expensive than they really are. This is something that you need to be there for, so you can see the item in the flesh. Summer clothes and accessories work well in this regard. The Primark lace jacket is a super-chic throw-on, no matter where you go, and the Matalan pink shoes will add a soft luxe touch to easy weekend outfits. The organza top from New Look is a stand-out piece – very catwalk.
Remember, if you love it, it’s less likely to end up in landfill.