Bored of the mainstream offering on the Great British high street? There are plenty of alternative brands to fall in love with – we discover five of the best
Words Joy Montgomery
As much as we love the big name high street brands, there’s nothing like discovering a new source of affordable style. How many times have you fallen in love with a dreamy jacket from Zara only to see it worn by hundreds of other women a week later?
Luckily for us there is a new guard of chic high street stores emerging. Platforms such as Uterqüe and Finery are here to offer consumers an alternative to the brand behemoths. It’s all about delivering design-led pieces and fashion mag-ready campaign imagery at pocket-friendly prices.
We’ve rounded-up five lesser-known high street stores to inspire your next shopping trip. Summer wardrobe? Sorted.
UTERQÜE
Uterqüe is the glamorous, lesser known sister brand of high street giant Zara. Nailing that elusive balance of grown-up elegance and trend-led detail, Uterqüe gives designer brands a run for their money. Coming in at a slightly higher price point than its better-known sibling, the brand is perfect for investment pieces, such as winter coats or summer sandals. Make sure you also keep an eye out for their jewellery line AKA the high street secret of countless fashion editors.
RELATED APPAREL
Created by two generations of one family, Helen and Joanna Nicola, Related Apparel is the contemporary new fashion brand offering stylish and wearable clothing for women. Perfect for girly separates and chic wardrobe staples, Related has taken Instagram by storm, delivering sell-out look after sell-out look (including this stunning off-the-shoulder top).
SAMSOE & SAMSOE
Rooted in Scandinavian simplicity, Samsøe & Samsøe dates back to 1993 when brothers Klaus and Preben Samsøe opened a small shop in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter. Fast forward two decades and the brand still holds onto its scandi heritage. The collection is shaped by a wearable aesthetic that combines the utilitarian energy of Copenhagen street style with a quintessentially Scandinavian spirit.
FINERY
Launched in 2014, Finery is the London-born brand making modern, sophisticated and accessible looks without compromising on quality. Their collections offer a distinctive attention to detail, alongside dramatic silhouettes and distinctive prints, making it great for discovering unusual occasion wear. They also offer a delectable selection of trend-led accessories.
FREE PEOPLE
Part of Urban Outfitters group, Free People is an American bohemian apparel and lifestyle brand. Alongside an eclectic range of lingerie, swimwear, accessories and skincare, the brand offers an extensive range of Cali cool pieces. With flowing frocks, slogan tees and tasseled ponchos aplenty, this is your one-stop-shop for summer style and festival fashion.
