Natalie Carlisle has spent decades in the trenches of the fashion world, working with everyone from the 1% club to corporate queens. And if there is one thing she's learnt from styling the rich and famous, it’s this: lean in, because it’s a secret - even the people with platinum cards love a high-street bargain.
- The quality white tee: H&M Silk Blend White T-Shirt, £32.99 / $44.99
- The versatile blazer: Mango Black Straight Blazer, £55.99 / $95.99
- The new IT bag: Strathberry Charlotte Drawstring Bag, £325 / $495
- The high-street cashmere: M&S Cashmere Knit, £130 / $255
- The forever jeans: Levi's 90s Jeans, £90 / $64.98
- The power player shoe: Adidas Spezial Handball, £100 / $130
You might be surprised to know that Natalie's wealthiest clients still covet the pieces the rest of us can afford. Why? "Because they aren’t just looking at the label," she tells me, "They’re looking at the material composition, the precision of the cut, and the quality of the finish. You don’t need a designer budget to get a designer look - you just need to know where to look."
Here are the six affordable staples Natalie buys for her clients (and for herself!).
1. The 'Better Than Basic' White T-Shirt
© WireImageTop of everyone’s list is always a good quality t-shirt, but please, stop buying those multipacks that go grey after one wash. If you want to look polished, you need a tee with the luxe factor.
The Expert Pick: "I swear by the H&M Silk-Cotton blend. The silk gives the fabric a gorgeous sheen and a distinctive, smart look that elevates it way beyond a standard jersey top.
"If you prefer something with a bit more structure, the COS tees are a dream. They have a tailored fit and a super flattering neckline that screams expensive."
Pro-tip: My clients buy these in every single colour.
2. The Power Blazer
© NetflixA blazer shouldn’t be a hard find, but so many women overthink it. This is the single most versatile piece in your wardrobe - it can take a 'jeans and a tee' look from 'running errands' to 'running the boardroom' in five seconds flat.
The Expert Pick: "Mango has been the undisputed queen of the high-street blazer for years. Whether you go double-breasted or single, they always have a variety of cuts that mimic high-end tailoring. Honestly, my clients often prefer these for a night out because they don’t have to worry about a stray glass of red wine ruining a four-figure investment! If you want something a bit softer, M&S does a stunning Ecru blazer that looks incredibly chic for Spring."
3. The "New Wave" Handbag
© InstagramThe era of the 'logo-loud' designer bag is fading. Natalie's clients are moving away from the heavy price tags and towards brands that focus on craftsmanship over clout.
The Expert Pick: "Strathberry is the one to watch. The leather quality is insane, and the designs are simple yet so effective. The Charlotte Drawstring pouch is a personal favourite - it’s classic, timeless, and surprisingly versatile. If you want other quiet luxury options that won't break the bank, check out DeMellier or Polene. They offer that 'I found this in a boutique in Paris' vibe without the airfare."
4. Cosy in Cashmere
© NetflixA decent knit is a total wardrobe workhorse, but it has to be the right one, otherwise, you're heading into grandma territory (and not in a cool, retro way).
The Expert Pick: "Marks & Spencer is my absolute go-to for knitwear. If you’re a cashmere devotee, it's your best bet for affordable luxury."
5. The Forever Denim
© Getty ImagesIt probably goes without saying, but Levi's has been leading the pack since day one. But here is Natalie's stylist’s sermon: please, stop rushing your denim shopping!
The Expert Pick: "Invest some real time in your Levi's. Try on the styles you usually avoid - you might be surprised. Always buy them a little snug, because they will give. And for the love of fashion, stop washing them so much! Wash them inside out to preserve the colour, and never wash them after just one wear. They are designed to be lived in. If you want something with a slightly more boutique feel, Mint Velvet has come a long way - their price point is a smidge higher these days, but the fit is worth every penny."
6. The Trendy Trainer
Finding the perfect 'basic' trainer can be tricky for women but Natalie is a fan of Adidas for her clients. The Spezial and the Samba shoes offers a slim, streamlined silhouette that doesn't compete with the rest of your outfit. For a stylist, this is gold; it means the shoe works just as well with a pair of fluid, wide-leg tailored trousers as it does with a feminine, polka-dot midi dress.
The Expert Pick: "My clients love the Adidas Spezial sneakers for a comfortable shoe that doesn’t look like you're about to head to the gym. The Samba trainers are great for a slightly smarter feel as well. Be quick when they bring out a print or themed trainer - you’ll spend your time hunting them down desperate for them otherwise!"
Natalie Carlisle is a freelance stylist specialising in 40+ fashion. For more of her straight-talking style advice, follow her on Instagram @natalierose_stylist.
