Like every season, as we inch closer to summer, I’m desperate to wear all the looks I’ve been planning in my head. But this summer feels different. Of course, each season, there are always underlying trends paving the way for all brands and especially the Great British high street, but there’s definitely a feeling that “anything goes” is the mantra, and if you are working an outfit, this season is all about committing and going all out no matter how understated or maximalist your style may be.
This week, I headed out to scour the shop floors of our favourite affordable stores and tried on some of the best buys. From Zara’s new limited-edition pieces to Mango‘s new-season colours, there were many highlights. Most interesting was COS, which has added buttonhole elastics on the inside of all of its trousers. I always remember my father’s trousers having them in the ’90s, and it’s such a genius hack, especially if you have a small waist and wide hips like I do. So, which five shops were my favourites? Read on to find out.
:quality(85):upscale()/2026/05/27/720/n/1922564/8e14f8036a1719329379c5.86726960_.jpg "Ciara Miller and the Art of Dressing for Revenge")
:quality(85):upscale()/2026/05/11/678/n/1922564/5eada73d6a01f2d3b10453.48636618_.jpg "Lisa Wore an Under-0 Bra Top to the Met Gala After Parties Plus More Celebrity Looks")
