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After sharing a pint with a British friend over the holidays, I decided to take a trip to London this year — at least sartorially. Classic English styling is influencing fashion everywhere, and it’s giving rich mum meets off-duty aristocracy. However, while many may covet higher-end labels like Burberry and Stella McCartney, shopping for more affordable, inspired-by pieces and saving those quids for an actual holiday is also a smart option.
Delving into classic London trends is a visual feast of neutral hues, sharp tailoring, and stand-out accessories that define the quiet luxury style. Whether your taste is more Princess Kate or Kate Moss, scroll on to shop some of my favorite British-inspired styles and get ready for an ultra-posh afternoon tea — or whatever you might have on your schedule!
1. Grace Karin Trench Coat: Add an interesting twist to the classic trench with tweed! This belted, double-breasted style has pretty decorative buttons and raw edges for outfit-making details — $40 at Amazon!
2. Dream Pairs Women’s Elastic Chelsea Ankle Boots: Whether you’re venturing down cobblestone streets or your local downtown area, these boots are made for walking. With a chunky 2.5″ lug heel, this Chelsea design is a versatile staple that comes in six pretty colors. Reviews say they are all-day comfortable and “look expensive” — $38 at Amazon!
3. Liberty London Purse, Head or Neck Scarf: After working in London a few months back, Sarah Jessica Parker gave this fabric brand a special shoutout. Tie the beautiful and unique floral scarf around your neck or your handbag for massive style points — $18 on Amazon!
4. Topshop Oversize Long Sleeve Sweater Dress: Another UK staple, a sweater dress is a cold-weather hero. When styling this Topshop’s pick, simply add high boots, patterned tights, and a large tote and you’re on your way! — $53 (regularly $75) at Nordstrom!
5. Elleven Women’s Blazer with Pockets: Elevating jeans with a tailored jacket and loafers is a classic, year-round go-to look, and this cinched-waist blazer checks all the boxes. The brown plaid option is my favorite but it comes in multiple colors, including a dark navy and whimsical purple. Available in sizes XS-XXL, one shopper confirms, “This material is awesome. The blazer is very classy, and I can’t wait to wear it” — $48 at Amazon!
6. Barbour Isla Bouclé Plaid Shawl: From a classic British brand, this lovely throw-on layer adds warmth and style to jeans or skirts. Perfect over your shoulders when the weather is nippy — $100 at Nordstrom!
7. Idealsanxun Women’s Plaid Wool Skirts: Available in so many colors, this pretty flared, plaid wool-blend skirt is a cold-weather go-to. One shopper wrote, “I love this skirt. It fits great, the pockets are a good size, and they hold my phone with room to spare. The two layers make it warm.” In sizes XS-3X — $37 at Amazon!
8. Topshop Texture Knit Column Maxi Skirt: An elegant piece, this figure-hugging skirt can be worn dressy or casual. The ribbed black jacquard fabric is soft and chic — $49 (regularly $65) at Nordstrom!
9. Dokotoo Women’s Short Puff Sleeve Knit Tops: Nautical stripes and a gently puffed sleeve give this tee a fresh, Euro-inspired spin — $20 at Amazon!
10. Maggy London Seamed Pleated Long Sleeve Dress: Toss this knee-length, fit-and-flare dress in your luggage. The pretty burgundy shade works day or night, and, according to reviews, it’s so comfy. One person wrote, ” I wore it for the first time today and received several comments. Added bonus, the dress is comfortable and warm enough for cooler weather.” — $126 (regularly $168) at Nordstrom!
11. Lauren Ralph Lauren Belted Geo Print Long Sleeve Shirtdress: Printed dresses are a must, especially belted styles. This stylish black-and-white, geo-printed shirtdress features a band collar and button cuffs. Even better: It has pockets (!) and is nearly 50% off! — $165 at Nordstrom!
12. Topshop Lace Straight Leg Pants: Mix it up with semi-sheer relaxed-leg lace pants that layer with blazers or shine on their own. $42 (regularly $55) at Nordstrom!
13. Veronz Super Soft Luxurious Classic Cashmere-Feel Winter Scarf: Someone will have to be in-your-personal-space close to notice if this is Burberry or a lookalike, but as for the price tag, it can’t be beaten. Besides the traditional tan plaid, it comes in over 30 colorways, and reviews call it “so soft” — $22 at Amazon!
14. Navygrey The Winter Weekend Sweater: If you do fancy splurging on an heirloom piece that will stay in your closet for years, Navygrey’s luxe British jumpers are a worthy spend. Not only are they made of fine wool, but Scottish water is used to produce a uniquely soft and smooth texture, and the straight fit effortlessly layers over other shirts — $425 at Nordstrom!
15. Designer Tote Bags, Two Pack Set: Kate Middleton is among the countless fans of Longchamp bags. If you’d like to snag the look for less, these totes are a more affordable alternative and are nearly identical! One shopper says they are “Amazing quality and value” for travel and everyday use — $60 at Amazon!
16. Reformation Alyssa High-Waist Wide-Leg Jeans: Skip fast fashion and invest in a great pair of jeans that never go out of style. This slightly wide-leg pick is made from low-stretch denim and has retro patch pockets to make every day a stylish one! — $168 at Nordstrom!
