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Top 10 Affordable Luxury Fashion Brands: Style Without Breaking The Bank

  • Writer: Stephanie Jackson
    Stephanie Jackson
  • Mar 30, 2023
  • 13 min read

Updated: May 20

Let’s be honest: most of us love the idea of looking put together, a bit polished, maybe even like we’ve got our life in order. But when every outfit that actually looks the part comes with a price tag that could cover your rent, it’s no wonder a lot of people just.. don’t bother.


The good news? You don’t need to shell out thousands to dress like someone who reads How to Spend It over brunch. That whole quiet luxury thing, the clean cuts, the decent fabrics, the stuff that doesn’t shout about its price, is way more doable these days than it used to be.


There are brands out there offering nice pieces made from proper materials (we’re talking cashmere, wool, linen, not the sort of polyester that sticks to your back when you sweat).


And the best part? They’re actually affordable. Not “£900 for a basic coat” affordable. I mean reasonable.


In this post, I’ll run you through some of the best affordable, quiet luxury brands out there right now, labels that look expensive, feel expensive, but won’t completely rinse your bank account. Whether you’re into the whole stealth wealth look or just want fewer clothes that actually last, there’s something here for you.


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Definition Of Affordable Luxury


It’s one of those phrases that gets chucked around a lot: affordable luxury. Sounds a bit contradictory, doesn’t it? Like saying “budget Rolls-Royce”. But the truth is, it’s not as far-fetched as it used to be.


At its core, affordable luxury is about getting the feel of high-end fashion, the fabric, the fit, and the quiet confidence, without handing over your life savings for a jacket. It’s the stuff that’s well-made, thoughtfully designed, maybe even a little bit indulgent… but still within reach for most people who want to treat themselves.


Now, what counts as “affordable” is obviously going to depend on who you ask. For one person, it might be a £100 pair of trousers that actually fit properly and don’t fall apart in the wash. For someone else, it’s spending £300 on a wool coat they’ll wear for the next ten years. Either way, the common thread is this: quality that doesn’t feel like a rip-off.


A lot of these brands are doing things differently, using proper materials, ditching the over-the-top logos, and focusing on stuff that actually lasts. There’s usually a bit of a sustainability angle, too, which isn’t just a nice bonus, it’s part of the whole mindset. Less throwaway. More thoughtful.


And more often than not, these labels have a bit of personality. They’re not trying to be everything to everyone. They know who they are, what they stand for, and the kind of customer they’re dressing. That’s what makes them feel a little bit special, even if you picked up the piece on sale.



Top 10 Brands Offering Affordable Luxury


Right, now that we’ve cleared up what affordable luxury actually means, let’s get into the good stuff, the brands that are doing it properly. These are the labels giving you that high-end feel without the usual markup. Some you’ll know, some might be new names, but all of them prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to look like you have.



  • 1. Tory Burch




Tory Burch is one of those names that pops up again and again when people talk about affordable luxury, and for good reason. The brand’s been around since the early 2000s, founded by Tory herself, and it’s carved out a proper niche for offering high-quality pieces that look expensive, but don’t necessarily cost the earth.


There’s something really polished about the whole range: it’s smart, elegant, and a little bit preppy, but still totally wearable day to day. Think well-cut blouses, sleek dresses, beautifully structured handbags... the kind of stuff you could wear to work or out for dinner without feeling overdressed.


Prices are surprisingly decent, too. You can pick up a blouse or dress for under £200, and most bags and shoes sit in the £300–£500 range. It's not cheap, but compared to other designer labels? It’s very reasonable, especially when the quality’s this good.


And here’s a tip: Tory Burch tends to do regular sales, so if you time it right, you can often grab something gorgeous for even less. Whether it’s a pair of classic loafers or a statement crossbody bag, there’s usually something that’ll feel like a bit of a win.


If you’re after that quiet luxury vibe, clean lines, quality materials, nothing too flashy, this one’s a solid place to start.




  • 2. Michael Kors



Michael Kors is probably one of the first names people think of when it comes to affordable luxury brands, and it’s easy to see why. It’s been around for ages, it’s everywhere, and it’s managed to walk that line between aspirational and actually attainable - No small feat.


The brand’s got a bit of a reputation for being flashier than the whole quiet luxury crowd, especially during its early 2010s handbag boom, but in recent years, it’s dialled things down. These days, there’s a lot more focus on clean lines, timeless shapes, and pieces that work for everyday life, not just Instagram.


You’ll find plenty of wardrobe essentials here, such as smart outerwear, tailored dresses, sleek totes, but with just enough edge to keep things interesting. They’ve also got some cracking options if you’re after that designer look at an accessible price, sunglasses for under £100, leather handbags in the £200–£400 range, and classic staples that won’t feel dated six months down the line.


Yes, it’s still a bit more “logo-friendly” than some of the quiet luxury brands to shop for, but if you choose the right piece, something subtle, maybe in a neutral tone, without too much hardware, you can easily get that stealthy wealthy feel.


If you’re building your wardrobe and want a couple of smart, high-quality pieces that add polish without the panic at checkout, Michael Kors is a solid shout. You’re getting quality and craftsmanship with a recognisable name, and if you keep it minimal, you’ll have something that genuinely withstands the test of time.

 



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  • 3. Coach



Coach used to be one of those brands you’d mostly see in outlet villages or airports, alright, but easy to overlook. These days, it’s taken a different direction. The logo’s still around, just toned down a bit. The designs feel sharper now, more grown-up, more considered. You can tell they’re thinking about how people actually wear this stuff in real life.


Bags are still their strong point, proper leather, good structure, and a solid finish. Nothing that’s trying too hard, just something that goes with almost anything and actually lasts.


You’re not getting a bargain, sure, but you’re not staring at the price tag wondering how you’ll afford rent either. Most of their bags fall somewhere between £300 and £500, and to be fair, they’re built to last; you’ll probably still be using them in five years.


They’ve also got some great wardrobe staples, coats, boots, accessories, and relaxed pieces that aren’t chasing trends - Just things you’ll genuinely reach for and wear again and again.


It’s fair to say Coach has found its footing again. It’s not shouting for attention, and that’s exactly what makes it appealing.



  • 4. Ted Baker



Ted Baker’s one of those brands that just quietly gets it right. It’s been knocking about on the British high street for years, and while some labels chase trends or get a bit lost trying to reinvent themselves, Ted Baker has stayed in its lane, smart, reliable, and always a touch refined.


There’s a clear focus on detail, proper stitching, nice buttons, linings that feel a bit special, and the materials don’t feel like they’ve been skimped on either. It’s the sort of stuff that looks sharp without shouting about it, which is probably why it fits so nicely into that affordable luxury space.


You’re not paying over the odds either. A blazer’s usually around £200, dresses come in a bit lower, and some of the simpler bits start at about fifty quid. Coats and tailoring are pricier, yeah, but it still feels reasonable for what you’re getting.


There’s a good range too. Stuff for day-to-day, and pieces you’d happily wear to a wedding or work do. It’s got a bit of personality as well. The odd pop of colour, a cheeky print, something a bit different. But it doesn’t stray into silly. Feels grown-up, just not boring.


If you like your clothes polished but not uptight, with decent build and a bit of British flair, Ted Baker’s a safe bet. One of those brands that just fits into your wardrobe and ends up sticking around longer than you’d planned.



  • 5. Ganni



Ganni’s one of those brands that found its place without shouting about it. It’s got that laid-back Scandinavian thing going on, clean cuts, simple shapes, nothing too in your face, but still feels like you’ve made an effort.


There’s usually a little detail that sets it off. Could be a bold print, a sharp collar, something that gives it a bit of life without tipping into try-hard.

They’ve been doing the sustainability thing for years. Organic cotton, recycled fabrics, lower-impact production, not just for show, it’s part of how they work. Prices kick off at around fifty quid and go up to about £700, so there’s a decent range depending on what you're after.


That mix of feel-good and look-good is what makes Ganni work. You buy a piece and it sticks around. Whether it’s a wool coat or a linen dress, it ends up being one of those things you just keep reaching for. Quiet luxury at its best — the kind that doesn’t try too hard but gets it right.



  • 6. Marc Jacobs



A lot of people know the brand for its bold designs and playful vibe, and that’s still there, but there’s also a growing focus on timeless pieces. Think clean silhouettes, proper quality materials, and bags that don’t rely on overt branding to feel premium. It’s the kind of label where you can lean into colour and statement shapes or go completely understated, depending on your style.


If you’re after a quiet luxury look without spending thousands, Marc Jacobs is a solid shout. Their leather goods, especially the bags, strike a balance between chic style and practicality. They’ve got a polished feel, but they’re not just for show; the stitching’s solid, the structure holds up, and you won’t be swapping them out every season.


Prices usually fall between £80 and £500, depending on what you’re after, which puts it comfortably in the best affordable bracket for anyone wanting a bit of flair with their fashion. Whether it’s a compact crossbody or a minimal cashmere sweater, the brand offers a range that feels well considered.


It’s not trying to mimic brands like The Row. Marc always had his own lane, but if you’re looking to invest in quality and enjoy a bit of personality in your wardrobe, it’s a good place to start.


  • 7. Longchamp



Longchamp’s one of those luxury fashion brands that’s always quietly delivered without the need for big flashy campaigns or celebrity hype. It’s been around for over 70 years, and it’s carved out its place as one of the most affordable luxury brands for people who want quality that lasts without the showy bits.


The big standout, obviously, is the Le Pliage tote. Foldable, light, and properly practical, it’s become a bit of a cult classic, the sort of quiet luxury item you see slung over the arms of everyone from uni students to execs dashing through the airport. It’s understated, but that’s the appeal. It ticks the stealth wealth box without trying too hard.


But Longchamp isn’t just about that one bag. The brand offers a range of leather goods, travel pieces, and even wardrobe essentials like outerwear and accessories. The designs are simple, sleek, and built to last, exactly what you’d expect from a label that’s focused on comfort and durability rather than trends.


Prices run from about £100 to £1000 depending on the item, which puts it in that sweet spot for people looking to invest in something that feels luxurious but still sits at an accessible price point. You won’t find massive logos or loud colourways here. It’s all about clean lines, neutral tones, and pieces that genuinely withstand the test of time.


If you like the idea of quiet luxury brands that value quality and craftsmanship over attention-grabbing designs, Longchamp’s definitely one to keep in rotation.



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  • 8. Kate Spade



Kate Spade always had a bit of charm to it. It leans into that fun, slightly playful style, but still manages to feel polished, which is probably why it’s become one of the go-to affordable luxury brands for women who want a bit of personality without compromising on quality.


There’s a mix of things here, some bolder colours and patterns, sure, but plenty of pieces that give you that quiet luxury look too. Think clean-cut handbags, well-fitted dresses, the odd cashmere sweater , all done with an eye for detail and a bit of a wink. It’s not trying to be serious or minimalist like brands like The Row, but that’s the point. It knows its audience.


What makes Kate Spade such a solid option in the best affordable bracket is that the quality’s actually there. We’re talking quality materials, proper finishes, zips that don’t jam after a week, and leather goods that can hold their shape without feeling bulky. A smart crossbody might set you back around £150, while a larger tote or standout piece can go up to £350–£500.


There’s also a practical side to it, bags with actual storage, wardrobe essentials with versatility, and shoes you can wear all day. It’s clear the brand’s designed with real life in mind.


If you’re after something with a bit of personality that still feels like a treat, Kate Spade gives you that affordable, quiet luxury edge, a way to elevate your style without feeling like you're dressing up as someone else.




  • 9. See By Chloe


See By Chloé is basically Chloé’s younger, more laid-back sister, a bit more relaxed, a bit more wearable, but still with that same easy Parisian elegance. It’s a great option if you like your clothes to feel soft, a little floaty, and effortlessly put together without tipping into anything too precious.


There’s a definite quiet luxury vibe going on, the kind that gives you subtle shapes, softer fabrics, and a neutral palette without loads of logos. Think flowing wardrobe essentials like a linen maxi dress, a muted wool coat, or one of their signature handbags with just the right amount of detail.


What sets See By Chloé apart is the attention to detail in both cut and finish, from tailored trousers to lace-trimmed blouses. The pieces feel thoughtful, but not fussy. It’s got that whole stealth wealth look that people are chasing lately, understated and elegant, without trying too hard.


In terms of price, it sits in that accessible price range for a designer name; most pieces fall between £150 and £500. It’s not throwaway money, but if you’re looking to invest in something properly made that’ll withstand the test of time, it feels fair.


They’ve also been making more of an effort on the sustainability front, using better fabrics and cleaner production where they can, which adds to that sense that this brand isn’t just about surface-level style.


If you want pieces that sit somewhere between polished and bohemian, and you like your fashion to feel soft, well-made and just a bit special, See By Chloé might be exactly what you’re after.



 

  • 10. Nanushka



Nanushka’s one of those brands that fashion insiders have been wearing quietly for years. Based in Budapest, it’s carved out a space in the quiet luxury world with pieces that feel considered, comfortable, and genuinely wearable.


There’s a calm, relaxed elegance to everything they do, soft tailoring, draped silhouettes, muted colours, and the kind of clean lines that slot effortlessly into your wardrobe. It’s modern minimalism, but with warmth. A Nanushka wool coat or cashmere sweater isn’t just nice to look at; it’s the sort of piece you actually reach for on a cold morning.


The brand is also properly committed to sustainability. They work with low-impact fabrics, use recycled materials where they can, and focus on responsible production. It’s a great example of the rise of affordable luxury fashion that puts ethics and aesthetics on equal footing.


Prices usually sit between £100 and £600, depending on the piece. So yes, it’s an investment, but not one that feels over the top. Whether it’s a structured leather bag, a soft tailored trouser, or a transitional, quiet luxury item you’ll wear all year round, Nanushka’s pieces are made with comfort and durability in mind, and they tend to withstand the test of time.


These top brands have earned their place not just through great design, but through the people behind them. If you're a fashion brand owner building your team, or someone looking to take the next step in your career, we’re fashion hiring experts here at SJR London, ready to help you find the right fit.



Focus on Quality, Not Quantity


There’s this idea floating around that the more clothes you have, the better dressed you are. But anyone who’s ever stood in front of a full wardrobe thinking “I’ve got nothing to wear” knows that’s not really how it works.


Fast fashion has made it easy to buy cheap and often, but most of it doesn’t last. You get stuff that loses its shape, bobbles, or fades after just a few washes. And before you know it, you’re back to square one.


That’s why more people are stepping back from the cycle and leaning towards fewer, better things. It’s not about a wardrobe full of options; it’s about having the right ones.


This is where affordable, quiet luxury really comes into its own. You get proper materials, clothes that are made well, and designs that won’t feel dated in six months. It’s a slower, more thoughtful way to build a wardrobe, one that works around you instead of the other way around.


Spending a little more up front on pieces that are built to last doesn’t just save you money long-term, it also cuts down on waste. And let’s be honest, the planet doesn’t need more polyester.


At the end of the day, it’s not about chasing trends. It’s about picking out a handful of things you’ll actually wear, clothes with shape, structure, and staying power.




Invest in Timeless Pieces


Trends come and go some quicker than others, but the pieces that really earn their keep are the ones that don’t chase what’s in season. A proper blazer, a good coat, a well-cut dress, they’re the sort of things that just work, year after year.


Building a wardrobe around those kinds of staples makes life easier. You’re not constantly trying to keep up, and you’ve always got something to fall back on that feels right. It’s a bit of an upfront investment, sure, but in the long run, it saves you from the endless cycle of buying cheap and replacing often.


The good news is, you don’t have to go full designer to get that level of quality. Loads of affordable, quiet luxury brands are offering sharp tailoring, structured handbags, and everyday pieces that are made to last all at a more accessible price point.


Whether it’s a classic pair of tailored trousers, a soft cashmere sweater, or a sleek pair of heels that can transition from day to night, these sorts of pieces tend to do a lot of the heavy lifting in your wardrobe. They’re not trend-driven, and that’s exactly what makes them feel like true luxury; they just quietly do the job, season after season.


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Conclusion


Trends come and go, some quicker than others, but the pieces that really earn their keep are the ones that don’t chase what’s in season. A proper blazer, a good coat, a well-cut dress, they’re the sort of things that just work, year after year.


Building a wardrobe around those kinds of staples makes life easier. You’re not constantly trying to keep up, and you’ve always got something to fall back on that feels right. It’s a bit of an upfront investment, sure, but in the long run, it saves you from the endless cycle of buying cheap and replacing often.


The good news is, you don’t have to go full designer to get that level of quality. Loads of affordable, quiet luxury brands are offering sharp tailoring, structured handbags, and everyday pieces that are made to last all at a more accessible price point.


Whether it’s a classic pair of tailored trousers, a soft cashmere sweater, or a sleek pair of heels that can transition from day to night, these sorts of pieces tend to do a lot of the heavy lifting in your wardrobe. They’re not trend-driven, and that’s exactly what makes them feel like true luxury; they just quietly do the job, season after season.

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