London Style Always Looks So Expensive—Here's How I'm Shopping It for Under $300

One great thing about London is how often the classic British fashion tropes really are worn by locals: Trenches, riding boots, a healthy dose of cozy cardigans—and only partly because English weather truly lives up to its dreary reputation. Season after season, there's a prevalence of fashion—from designer to high street—that delightfully nods to that British heritage in that '90s rom-com kind of way (kind of like if you were to go Paris and half the people you met actually wore berets).

Because I had five nights in town recently, I decided to investigate the locals' style up close and kept tabs on the winter fashion items that seemed to tap into that polished London look and "old money" energy. The vibe is a subset of quiet luxury with a healthy dose of heritage fabrics, an inclination to prepare for rain, and a real affinity with anything that suggests one might have a second home in the country. I promise, these items only look luxe, as everything here is under $300.

Wool Blazers

A winter-weight blazer is one of my favorite things to wear right now. Mango (as always) has a slew of great options, but I'm particularly into this Zara style with a built-in vest.

Riding Boots

When it comes to tall boots, I lean towards more subtle styles that nod to equestrian, but I also appreciate the range of traditional to modern takes on hardware.

Traditional British Fabrics and Prints

There's no one right way to insert heritage details into your look: Opt for plaids, checks, herringbone, and tweeds—whether they're classic, modern, oversize, understated, or bold. Take your pick and wear it like a neutral.

Trenches

A large part of life in London this time of year is preparing for it to rain at any moment, so the rule seems to be that an excellent trench is always within sight.

Cardigans/Knits

I genuinely thought New Yorkers were the biggest fans of cardigans, but London takes it to the next level. Relaxed V-neck styles are always in, but I noticed a slew of polished styles that felt almost tailored.

Chelsea Boots

London remains absolutely dedicated to Chelsea boots. From rain boots with lug soles (less chunky than last year, for sure) to sleeker styles had that cool, downtown Khaite vibe.