High street vs high end: Staple pieces for summer

If like us you get tired of waiting the entire month for pay day just to find out you can’t afford any of the pieces you love, we may be about to answer all of your fashion prayers! Finding must-have clothes and accessories is a great feeling, that’s why it’s always a disappointment when you’re prevented from owning them because of a high price tag. Take a look at these amazingly affordable alternatives, your wardrobe and your wallet will thank you!

Mustard sun dress

Both of these dresses are stunning and absolutely perfect for summer. Besides the slight variance in style however, there is another not so subtle contrast between the two. We’re going to go ahead and say it’s the huge £268 difference in price! Now that ladies, is a saving. (Cost difference: £268)

Sun Beam mini dress, £288, Free People

Ruffle trim skater dress, £20, Lily Lulu  

Red belt bag

Look to any celebrity or celebrated fashionista stepping out this summer and it’s likely they’ll be sporting a belt bag. There’s no doubt this classic 80s style is well and truly back, making its mark on summer 2018. (Cost difference: £773)

Red leather belt bag, £795, Gucci

Red belt bag, £22, Topshop

 Simple white bikini

There’s nothing like a crisp white bikini to show off your holiday tan and we love this quilted triangle offering from Beach Cafe. We also love the Asos version at a fraction of the cost! (Cost difference: £94.50)

Seafolly quilted triangle bikini, £110, Beach Cafe

Pretty Little Thing cami bikini, £15.50, ASOS

Straw hat

An indulgently large straw hat is definitely up there with most stylish ways to shield yourself from the sun. If you’re feeling extra generous with your cash, opt for the Lack Of Colour straw boater hat. Alternatively, there’s the South Beach version, which is just as gorgeous but leaves extra cash for cocktails by the pool. (Cost difference: £150)

Lack Of Colour straw boater hat, £160, Selfridges

South Beach straw boater hat, £10, Asos

 

Tortoiseshell cat eye sunglasses

The cat eye seems to be the celebrity choice of shape for sunnies this year. Though some hold a hefty price tag like the Fendi version there are much more reasonably price alternatives from high street brands like Topshop. Perfect for when you inevitably sit on them in the car. (Cost difference: £199)Fendi tortoiseshell cat eye sunglasses, £219, Harvey NicholsTortoiseshell cat eye sunglasses, £20, Topshop

Sophie Cook