The under-the-radar high street brands that have upped their game this summer – and everything our fashion editor is buying

On the hunt for new brands? Instead I urge you to rediscover the handful of style stalwarts that have had a glow up.
M&S is leading the charge on reinvention across the high street. In 2019 its clothing sales declined 5.5 per cent and there were plans to oust its frumpy garment department altogether.
After targeting younger customers and modernising its aesthetic, six years on it stocks sell-out items and collaborates with the likes of Sienna Miller. Last year clothing sales jumped 4.7 per cent producing an operating profit of £242.2m.
These are the other revamped brands to have on your radar now.
FRENCH CONNECTION
A few years ago I would have tagged this brand as an overpriced occasionwear outlet. Now I'd happily add most of its 'new in' section to my basket. Its head of design Helen Gallagher says, 'We've worked hard to reintroduce that bold, confident edge French Connection was once known for, with a new emphasis on pieces that feel wearable yet directional, and made for busy lives.' The result? A summer collection featuring clever details that make the clothes look and feel luxe.
Ennis Eco Satin Column Shape Dress
£140
Shop
A standout piece thanks to its balloon sleeves and seashell embroidery.
£69 Shop
Wrap-around sarong skirts are a great alternative to your trusty midi slip.
Skirt
£75 Shop
These are begging to be worn in the South of France.
Sunglasses
£45 Shop
RUSSELL & BROMLEY
This heritage accessories brand has steered away from reproducing the same old silhouettes and moved towards sleek pumps, kitten heels, mules and drool-worthy arm candy. For the first time in its 145-year history, design has moved in-house, with It-boy Daniel Beardsworth-Shaw as creative director. 'I'm aiming to tell the story of this iconic brand through innovation and an updated direction,' he says. His vision comes into full effect from autumn this year, but the latest styles on offer already show his influence – the suede bag collection is unmatched.
I'm loving the rich brown shade and buckle strap.
Strappy Heeled Sandal
£245
Shop
Bag
£295 Shop
These 70s-inspired platform mules will work with wide-leg jeans or linen trousers.
Sandals
£195 Shop
Chocolate suede is everywhere: nail the trend with this investment piece.
Bag
MINT VELVET
Two years ago you'd be pushed to find a gem on this brand's rails, but now Mint Velvet is packed with styles that end up with wait lists. Its aesthetic has evolved from mumsy to must-have, thanks to creative director Lucy Bevan, who says, 'We design for women who want to look put-together without trying too hard. Our focus is on creating effortless silhouettes with just the right amount of polish.' Which is why its holiday edit is one to watch.
This ruffled one-piece is super flattering.
Swimsuit
£69 Shop
Sea-themed charms will amp up the simplest of summer looks.
£32 Shop
RADLEY
Founded in 1998 by Australian architect-turned-designer Lowell Harder, this London-based brand made its name selling mid-price bags featuring its Scottie-dog mascot. But to quote Florence Welch, 'the dog days are over'. Thanks to new design director Fernando Soriano Iglesias, Radley's focus is now on stealth wealth-looking totes and the sort of bags you'll find trending on Instagram. His experience at Calvin Klein, Carolina Herrera and Loewe is already evident in in this season's polished offerings.
Croc bag
£109
Shop
This faux-croc number will fit your laptop, notebook, sunglasses and kitchen sink.
Bag
These gladiators are giving Gwyneth Paltrow vibes.
I have my eye on this squishy grab bag.
Bag
£239, now £143 Shop
ARRANGE AT ASOS
My mum would say Asos is far too young for her – she'd also question the quality. But the digital outlet's premium Arrange line is a far cry from its usual fast-fashion offerings. Rather than trend-led, the range is timeless, mature, features designs in 100 per cent cotton, leather and silk – and has a curve section. It does especially fabulous, yet modest, occasionwear that looks far more expensive than it is.
Maxi dress
£130
Shop
Chartreuse is becoming the next shade of yellow to covet now.
Dress
£130 Shop
Arrange also does a fine line in party tops: see this asymmetric striped find.
Top
£65 Shop
For the brave, these leather city shorts will look très chic with a white linen shirt and kitten heels.
GAP
You may associate this Californian export with denim and white T-shirts, but its premium Gap Studio line – designed by creative director Zac Posen – went viral when Anne Hathaway wore a £120 white poplin shirtdress from the range last summer. The brand has gone from strength to strength since, with White Lotus star Parker Posey (below) fronting its latest campaign.
That hit shirtdress in navy polka dots.
Dress
£120 Shop
This asymmetric short trench is a great twist on a classic.
Jacket
£125 Shop
Gap's jeans are still fabulous and well priced: these horseshoe ones have sold out twice.

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