Unnoticed Fashion Brands Thriving on High Streets This Summer - Picks Our Style Editor Can't Resist
Feeling like your wardrobe needs a refresh? Let's revive some timeless brands that have upped their game.
M&S (Marks & Spencer)- The Comeback Kid: M&S is redefining its aesthetic, moving away from frumpy garments with a target towards the younger demographic. Last year, it recorded a 4.7% increase in clothing sales and a whopping £242.2m in operating profit.- Sustainable Moves: M&S is making strides in sustainability by launching Fairtrade across its own-brand packaging, aiming to remove 1 billion units of plastic packaging.- Store Expansion: Prepare for a M&S expansion, as they are set to open new food halls across the UK, targeting former Homebase sites.- New Brands: M&S is welcoming over 35 new brands to its online platform.
FRENCH CONNECTION
- Bold Rebirth: French Connection has returned with a modern twist on its bold edge, focusing on wearable, directional pieces made for busy lives.
- Luxurious Details: Their summer collection features clever details that make the clothes feel luxurious.
Shop Now:- Ennis Eco Satin Column Shape Dress - £140- Shirt - £69- Skirt - £75- Sunglasses - £45
RUSSELL & BROMLEY
- Design Innovation: This heritage accessories brand is steering away from repetitive silhouettes and moving towards sleek pumps, kitten heels, mules, and arm candy.
- New Leadership: For the first time in its 145-year history, design has moved in-house, with It-boy Daniel Beardsworth-Shaw as creative director.
Shop Now:- Strappy Heeled Sandal - £245- Bag - £295- Sandals - £195- Bag - £275
MINT VELVET
- From Mumsy to Must-Have: Mint Velvet has evolved its aesthetic from mumsy to must-have, thanks to creative director Lucy Bevan's focus on effortless silhouettes with the perfect amount of polish.
- Holiday Edit: Their holiday edit is worth watching for its chic holiday wear.
Shop Now:- Swimsuit - £69- Necklace - £32- Co-ords - From £179
RADLEY
- Farewell Scottie Dog: Radley's iconic Scottie-dog mascot has taken a backseat, with a focus now on stealth wealth and trendsetting bags.
- New Designer: New design director Fernando Soriano Iglesias brings his experience from Calvin Klein, Carolina Herrera, and Loewe to Radley's latest offerings.
Shop Now:- Croc bag - £109- Bag - £279- Sandals - £109- Bag - £239, now £143
ARRANGE AT ASOS
- Premium Offerings: Asos's premium Arrange line provides a far cry from their usual fast-fashion offerings with mature, timeless designs, and an emphasis on quality materials like cotton, leather, and silk.
- Curve Section: Arrange offers a curve section catering to a wider range of body types and sizes.
Shop Now:- Maxi dress - £130- Dress - £130- Top - £65- Shorts - £150
GAP
- Californian Style: Gap's Californian style is still going strong, with their premium Gap Studio line designed by creative director Zac Posen. This line went viral after Anne Hathaway wore a £120 white poplin shirtdress from the range.
- White Lotus Star: The brand's latest campaign stars White Lotus' Parker Posey.
Shop Now:- Jacket - £45- Dress - £120- Jacket - £125- Jeans - £50
- Discover the latest fashion trends in lifestyle and fashion-and-beauty as M&S, French Connection, and Mint Velvet redefine their aesthetics, embracing modernity and increasing their focus on sustainability.
- Upgrade your accessories with design innovations from heritage brands like Russell & Bromley and Radley, now venturing into sleek and trendsetting pieces.
- Take your wardrobe on a global adventure with travel-inspired clothing from premium brands available at shopping destinations like ARRANGE at ASOS and Gap.