The A/W15 fashion shows displayed some easily wearable but nonetheless elegant trends, from delicate camisoles and midi skirts from Gucci to retro-style ankle boots from Dior. I you’re anything like me, the designer world of fashion seems just that-a completely different world-and it can be difficult to understand how to replicate some of the trends within an everyday setting, or find key pieces that won’t break the bank.
Luckily, the latest AW/15 range from Topshop has particularly captured the catwalk styles in pieces that wouldn’t look out of place on the high street, and certainly do not come with the designer prices. The similarity between the high street and designer pieces is almost uncanny, and even if they don’t come with a designer label, there won’t be any doubt that you’ve managed to capture the latest looks from catwalk.
Take, for example, Miu Miu’s red and black dogtooth coat with snakeskin pockets and cuffs and double-breasted buttons. Capturing a ‘Mad Men’, sixties secretary vibe, this coat came it at £2439 – well above the budget of most people, unless you happen to be the actual Don Draper.
But, have no fear, if you lust after this coat as must as you do after Jon Hamm, Topshop does a similar, but a far cheaper version at £89 – so you can still channel that Miu Miu catwalk look, just not at Miu Miu prices.
Gucci also released a retro-feeling AW15 collection this year, featuring grandma-style pleated midi-skirts in muted and metallic colours. Seen on the likes of Alexa Chung and in many high-street stores, these are set to become a wardrobe staple. At £745, these again come with a designer price.
Yet again, Topshop have come to the rescue with an almost identical midi skirt at only £60. 
Dior also seems to have inspired Topshop with a nod to the late sixties and early seventies through their range heeled ankled boots (£780 a pair).
Again, Topshop come to the fore, capturing the retro style but at high street prices. These heeled ankle boots are a more affordable £79 and come in a range of colours, heel materials and sizes, allowing you to get the designer look with out forking out.
So if you’re looking to keep up to date with the latest in fashion and a fraction of the prices, look no further than your local high street for all your “designer” (well, pretty much) needs.
Beth Thomas 