It takes a special set of circumstances to make a dress, bag or trousers so desirable that not only does it wow the fashionistas on the couture front row — it also becomes a must-have on the High Street.
Every season, there are a few pieces that hit the nail on the head — and end up inspiring strikingly similar items across High Street brands.
Take Toteme’s graphic print two-piece, totally wearable yet distinctive. Or Schiaparelli’s puffball skirt (yes, really, another classic of Princess Diana’s style and era is back in a big way).
When you know what you’re looking for, bagging one of these High Street homages to a red-carpet showstopper is a shortcut to dressing well for less.
Here’s our expert guide to snaffling the six key pieces of the summer — in versions so good even a fashion editor will look twice . . .
The silver pump
Versace’s SS24 catwalk show in Italy
Not just for Christmas parties any more, silver shoes are taking this season by storm.
These shoes will take you from desk to dinner to dancefloor (and will see you through any season).
Want to steal Versace’s style for a fraction of the price? Both River Island and Jones have what you need for under £100.
And if you’re willing to spend a little more, then head to Penelope Chilvers, where there is also a £149 version with an elasticated back for added comfort.
£30, riverisland.com
£89, jonesbootmaker.com
£219, penelopechilvers.com
The white puffball skirt
Schiaparelli SS24 – a Princess Diana favourite
Once favoured by Princess Diana and worn in 2024 by pop princess Sabrina Carpenter, this is a super versatile style, although Schiaparelli’s look from the catwalk isn’t exactly office appropriate.
To avoid looking like you’re in fancy dress, stick to sophisticated neutrals: & Other Stories have the perfect bubble- hem skirt for £115, or try New Look’s midi for £37.99.
Both are simple, but with enough volume to create a bit of oomph. Or to really take the guesswork out of this look, Amy Lynn has a strappy dress complete with voluminous skirt.
£99, Amy Lynn at selfridges.com
£115, stories.com
Skirt, £37.99, newlook.com
The throw-on frill dress
Stella McCartney throw-on ruffle dress on her SS24 catwalk
Love it or hate it, bohemian style is huge. It’s thanks, in part, to Chloe’s new creative director, Chemena Kamali, whose opening collection was all floaty white blouses and chunky brown clogs.
Even Stella McCartney wanted in on the action with a throw-on ruffle dress on her SS24 catwalk.
Then, the queen of boho returned, Sienna Miller, with ‘that’ M&S collection. Her range flew off the shelves — no surprise, with this expensive-looking frill dress for just £89.
£89, marksand spencer.com
£125, monsoon.co.uk
The chunky wedge
Sienna Miller, left, and Georgia May Jagger, centre, on the front row at Chloe
Sandal season is upon us and there’s only one ‘It-shoe’: Chloe’s Maxime wedge sandal.
At Chloe’s AW24 show in Paris, celebrities including Sienna Miller and Georgia May Jagger all wore the 1970s chunky style. Yes, it’s a Noughties throwback, but it’s also sturdier than a kitten heel, and more summery than a block heel.
Dune’s sky-high platforms are the closest match. If you’re after something a little more wearable, try Oasis or River Island’s less vertiginous pair.
£95, dunelondon.com
£36, Oasis at debenhams.com
£55, river island.com
The minimal print two-piece
Shirt, £540, Toteme at net-a-porter.com
Trousers, £520, Toteme at net-a-porter.com
Florals and loud prints take a back seat this summer — now, it’s all about Toteme’s minimalist graphic print.
The Stockholm brand is adored by the fashion crowd for its effortlessly cool designs, especially this silk-twill, monogram, logo print, left.
This co-ord set would cost you over £1,000, but Monsoon has an almost identical geometric set for just over £100, right, as does Zara in a more relaxed fit — which is currently in the sale.
Shirt, £55, and trousers, £49, monsoon.co.uk
The chocolate woven bag
Maxi Cabat tote bag, £10,300, bottegaveneta.com
If there’s one designer house that knows how to make an It-bag, it’s Bottega Veneta, thanks to its instantly recognisable woven style. This summer’s update on the classic is in a rich chocolate brown colour — one of this summer’s hottest hues.
So it’s no surprise that the High Street has taken inspiration from this one.
Anthropologie’s slouchy shoulder bag brings boho flair, but is practical for everyday use, while Dragon Diffusion’s is the perfect grab-and-go.
And if you want to carry on the trend for your holidays, then this small tote bag from Massimo Dutti comes with a handy detachable linen pouch, perfect if you’re heading to the beach.
£299, massimodutti.com
£135, anthropologie.com
£310, Dragon Diffusion at selfridges.com