British clothing brands are a go-to destination for both style and quality. With a host of iconic names as well as up-and-coming trendy labels, they offer something for every taste without breaking the bank.
When it comes to building a capsule wardrobe, there's no better place to shop than British clothing brands. With the likes of Reiss, Whistles and Hush on the high street, you can expect extremely high quality as well as trend-led designs that still incorporate timeless elements. Taking inspiration from the runways, you'll find directional outerwear, premium denim, flawless footwear and beautiful occasionwear like the best jumpsuits and best wedding guest dresses.
American brands like Ralph Lauren offer a preppy aesthetic, whilst Scandi names such as & Other Stories and Arket are great at minimalism. But the beauty of the best British brands is that there's something for everyone.
“There is so much history in British clothing brands, and the heritage favourites like Burberry, Liberty, and Pringle have paved the way for many designers, both in the UK and internationally,” says Katie Eastwood, Stylist Ambassador at Stitch Fix. So whatever your taste, there is a British clothing brand to meet your needs.
When choosing the top twenty, we've considered affordability, sustainability, quality and design, so you can rest assured we've done our research. We're kicking things off with the high street stalwart M&S, but there are also brands in the mix that you might not have heard of, or might not have known they were British.
Best British clothing brands as chosen by our fashion team
Most affordable British clothing brands
The most affordable brands offer high quality pieces at lower prices. A good comparison point is how much an occasion dress costs, and on both M&S and Crew Clothing you can find some really pretty options for under £100.
1. M&S
One of the most famous British clothing brands, there are few as iconic as M&S. Brits shop here for everything from food to homeware, and its fashion offering is always reliable. Well known for basics, you can buy some of the best bras here, and it also offers more seasonal, trend-led pieces. Sizes go from 6 up to 24 in some items, and they offer regular, tall and petite options. With great shoes (which are available in half sizes) and bags on offer too, it's as strong for accessories as it is for clothing. In recent years M&S has also started offering a selection of pieces from other, largely British, clothing brands which has meant that there is even more product on site. While this does definitely increase the choice, it does mean that unless you filter for Marks & Spencer specifically, you end up seeing a lot of other labels, which can be overwhelming.
This is a great choice if you're looking for dresses to hide a tummy. One reviewer wrote "Perfect fit, drapes beautifully, pretty and bright pattern, very flattering (hides the bumps!). Lovely fabric, irons like a dream... this dress is perfect in every way. "
Full skirts are a big trend this summer, but why spend a fortune? This £35 option is a great way to nail the summer outfits for work brief, and will pair well with a simple t-shirt and your best white trainers.
In a smart blue, this chambray shirt is both sleek and stylish. Ideal to pack for a holiday, it will work well as a cover-up over the best swimwear for your body shape, and as part of white jeans outfits for evenings.
2. Crew Clothing
One of the most affordable British clothing brands, Crew Clothing was born in Salcombe, Devon and draws on its nautical roots for a collection that straddles both occasion and casual wear. With a strong alliance to classic British sporting events including Wimbledon, Rugby, and Henley Racing, expect everything from Rugby tops to pretty, race day-ready polka dot dresses. With a leaning towards timeless silhouettes, the collections are wearable and affordable, as while they're thoroughly modern, they won't date from one year to the next. With a strong palette of neutrals, accented with nautical hues, you can easily create a capsule wardrobe from this quintessentially British clothing brand.
Exactly the kind of piece this brand does so well, one happy customer wrote: "I have one in every colour, they are great, material is cool and easy care". An item you'll wear again and again.
Increasingly popular for occasionwear, the best jumpsuits are perfect for those who don't want to wear separates but prefer trousers over a skirt. The bold polka dot print has a delightfully vintage feel for a feminine finish.
In nautical colours of red, white and navy, these trousers can be paired with the matching shirt, or with a plain block colour top or blouse.
Luxury British clothing brands
At the other end of the spectrum, luxury British clothing brands are at the high end of the high street, and specialise in pieces that are much more of an investment. If you use the dress test, styles on ME+EM and LK Bennett are around the £295-£300 mark. These brands are also where you'll find buttery soft leather, impeccably tailored trouser suits and outerwear that will last a lifetime.
3. ME+EM
London-based label ME+EM is a great place to look for investment pieces. Tailored separates and dresses in neutral tones sit alongside a careful selection of prints and bold hues seen in the fashion colour trends 2024 to create a coordinated edit of pieces that can be mixed and matched with ease. While the brand clearly takes note of trending styles, the looks don't feel overly fashion-forward ensuring you can wear them for seasons to come. It can be pricey though, so if the latest collection is a bit more than you were hoping to spend, check out the ME+EM sale.
Part of a co-ord with a matching top, these linen trousers are a great addition to your summer capsule wardrobe. Well-tailored trousers is something ME+EM particularly excels at, and these will look great with tan sandals and a crisp white shirt.
Smart and sophisticated, this striped shirt is a true timeless design you can count on. It's easy to see why ME+EM can count the likes of the Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Edinburgh and Queen Camilla as fans.
Polka dot is the timeless print to introduce to your wardrobe, as it is both fun and versatile - and these daisy shape dots are gorgeously unique. Ideal for formal events or evenings out, this is an investment piece worth every penny considering the multiple ways you can style it.
4. Reiss
One of the best English clothing brands, Reiss is well known for its brilliant straight-to-market tailoring. With a slightly smaller cut (but sharp finish) the brand does carry a limited size range, but if you fall within its parameters, this is the brand to invest in for directional blazers, smart shirting, workwear trousers and timeless dresses. Creating designs that will stay in your wardrobe for many years to come, Reiss favours a muted colour palette - think grey, beige and black - adding a dash of pastels in the summer to give a nod to brighter days. Expect high-end fabrics like cashmere, silk and wool.
This is a wardrobe staple that Claudia Winkleman's stylist Sinead McKeefry recommended to us a while ago, and we haven't looked back. It's available in several different colours and it's the epitome of elegant simplicity.
Elevating the simplest of looks, the loose knit and brown colour makes this a must-have. The sporty aesthetic is ideal for smart casual wear, and it's also available in ivory too.
Reiss really is the gold standard when it comes to women's trouser suits, and there's a beautifully flared pair of trousers available to match this sharp blazer. It's very in line with the Princess of Wales' penchant for trouser suits.
5. AllSaints
Known for making some of the best leather jackets for women, AllSaints is a top UK brand you can rely on for pieces with an edge. From hoodies to well-cut denim that nails the denim trends 2024, AllSaints make putting together a failsafe weekend wardrobe easy. With a distinctive edgy signature, it may not suit all tastes, but the brand does have a great range of basics, such as soft t-shirts and slinky midi dresses, that have broad appeal.
AllSaints is renowned for its high-quality leather jackets, and they are definitely worth the investment. With all the classic hallmarks of a biker jacket, this design will add some brightness to your wardrobe, and is a refreshing alternative to classic black.
This 2-in-dress dress taps into '90s fashion trends, and is also a favourite of woman&home's Digital Fashion Editor Caroline Parr. She says "this is hands-down my best wardrobe investment in the last few years. I've worn the slip dress on its own, the whole shebang with boots in winter, and the dress with a white t-shirt layered on top. The cropped jumper is also handy for wearing over other dresses too."
A great alternative to a Burberry trench coat that looks designer in itself, customers say this style is super oversized. One reviewer wrote: "It comes up very big so size down at least two sizes."
6. LK Bennett
Another British clothing brand favored by the Princess of Wales, LK Bennett was launched in 1990 with the dream of bringing 'a bit of Bond Street luxury to High Street'. 30 years later, it continues to do just that, letting everyone enjoy a slice of London-inspired fashion. Expect feminine silhouettes in high-quality fabrics that give a nod to vintage prints and patterns but with thoroughly modern silhouettes. LK Bennett covers a huge array of categories including sumptuous knitwear, sharp workwear and even what to wear to Wimbledon.
This faux leather pleated midi is perfect for pairing with ballet pumps for an edgy statement. A brilliant alternative to leather trousers, this will become a mainstay in your wardrobe. The pleats move beautifully when you walk, too.
We know Kate Middleton is a fan of an LK Bennett shoe, and if they’re good enough for a Princess, they’re good enough for us! These neutral white pumps with a contrasting buckle look very high end and will add a touch of luxury to any ensemble.
Moving away from a minimalist capsule wardrobe in 2024? Start with these trousers. Team with the matching shirt for a truly show-stopping look, or tone down with a plain long sleeved tee and sandals.
7. Whistles
A premium British clothing brand, Whistles is loved by the fashion crowd for its ability to always create standout interpretations of runway trends at more affordable price points. Covering everything from knitwear to outwear and some of the best dresses, Whistles also has a stellar bridal collection for those who want a more fashion-forward feel.
You can rely on Whistles to deliver elegant dresses for all occasions. Like leopard, cheetah is a neutral due to its versatility and timeless style. Whether you wear this for an evening out or a day in the office with trainers, it will serve you well.
Barrel leg jeans are big news this year. They offer a relaxed leg silhouette with a tapered finish at the ankles, and they're a style you should add to your wardrobe ASAP. Style with a tucked-in tee or cami and throw on your comfiest sandals.
Ideal for styling with slouchy jeans or denim shorts, this frill sleeved top is light and airy for the season. With a fun floral print that isn't too bright, it is surprisingly versatile for everyday wear, as it will look fun and bright under a blazer too.
Most sustainable British clothing brands
Sustainability has become increasingly important to shoppers in the last few years, and we've chosen brands that focus on responsibly-sourced fabrics and are conscious of their impact on the planet.
8. Nobody's Child
Nobody's Child is one of our favourite British clothing brands for both affordable and trend-led pieces. Offering feminine floaty midi dresses and blouses as well as sturdy denim and outerwear that will serve you well for years to come, this is a brand that will cater to most tastes with pieces that have timeless appeal. The brand's most recent range was designed in-house at their London-based studio and is made from over 95% organic, lower impact or recycled materials - so it wins sustainability points too.
The perfect transitional piece of denim, this top can be layered over t-shirts or worn with matching jeans for a simple yet standout ensemble. Helen Skelton recently wore the full double denim look.
Everyone needs a patterned midi dress in their spring/summer wardrobe and this gingham style is fun and playful but also endlessly versatile for all sorts of occasions.
Made from a responsible linen blend, these trousers are both breezy and smart. Style up with a chic waistcoat, or throw on with a slouchy tee and sandals this season.
9. White Stuff
White Stuff was created by two ski enthusiasts back in 1985 and the name of the brand refers to snow. It’s evolved massively since then, from two guys who wanted to fund their stays in the French Alps by selling t-shirts to a giant brand with hundreds of stores across the UK and Germany. Expect quirky prints, unusual colour combos, and easy-to-wear silhouettes all built to last - White Stuff is big on the details. The brand has had a recent makeover and now features more trend-led pieces with the unique White Stuff stamp on them. Sustainability is also key, with 60 percent of all clothing being made using materials that are kinder to people and the planet.
These statement trousers are available in regular or petite lengths, and are machine washable. One reviewer wrote: "Comfiest trousers [I've] ever worn! Tons of compliments and can match with different colour plain tops with the colours in the bottoms".
If there is one jacket absolutely everyone needs in their wardrobe, it is a denim one. We love the classic style and wash of this one. Perfect for smart casual dress codes, you can throw this on over anything.
This puff sleeve broderie LBD is one of our favourites this year. It has a premium finish whilst remaining relaxed and comfortable. Rock with some dressy flats and sunglasses.
10. Omnes
Not just one of the newest British clothing brands on this list, Omnes is also a sustainable clothing brand too. From the first sketch to the final product, each part of the process has been carefully considered to minimise the environmental impact. With great price points, Omnes is just one of many brands helping to make ethical fashion trendy and financially accessible for shoppers. And of course, its pieces are so beautiful, that eco-friendly re-wearing is guaranteed.
If you're wondering what colour suits me, green might just be the answer. This silky frock can be styled up with heels for parties or layered with a white tee and some vintage-style trainers for casual picnic dates this summer.
Crafted from organic cotton, these wide-leg pants are super flattering. The soft ecru hue doesn't need to be confined to summer either, winter whites team beautifully with this season's neutrals too.
We're living in linen shirts this summer, and Omnes' oversized offering is a versatile purchase that will get plenty of wear with skirts or jeans alike. You could even throw it on over swimwear for holidays.
Best British brands for occasionwear
These are the labels that particularly specialise in fancy frocks that will work for weddings, days at the races and black tie dress codes.
11. Needle & Thread
Founded by Hannah Coffin in 2013, Needle & Thread is a British clothing brand focused on luxurious feminine pieces that are steeped in romance. Largely governed by an occasionwear aesthetic, Needle & Thread make some of the most beautiful gowns if you're looking for the best wedding guest dresses, or for a bridal gown with a difference. With sensationally pretty floral prints, timeless frothy tulle designs, and rich embellishments, if you're in need of a cocktail dress or standout gown for a black tie event, this is the place to come. More recently Needle & Thread have moved into knitted dress and knitwear, for a more daywear take on its vintage style. Now stocking up to a size 22, the brand's dresses are universally flattering.
This is on our list of best wedding guest dresses, and has been worn by none other than Kate Middleton. Available in different lengths (there's even a childrenswear version!) and in sizes UK 4 to 22, this sensational dress would look stunning for a black tie dress code.
Another intensely romantic look, the brand's ethereal aesthetic really comes into its own for the warmer months, but looks equally as striking come autumn. With a high neck and sheer sleeves, this elegant dress has a delightfully vintage feel for a timeless design.
Available in several colourways, this is the perfect skirt to finally help you nail how to dress like Carrie Bradshaw. The full yet delicate tulle can be worn with pretty flats and a tee for everyday, or dressed up with a silky or sheer blouse.
12. Phase Eight
Phase Eight has always been a go-to when figuring out what to wear to occasions, but the British clothing brand has constantly expanded its casual separates collection too - meaning this brand works, whatever the event. With a strong focus on fit, it’s packed full of frocks and flattering jumpsuits that give a nod to trends but manage to remain timeless, meaning your occasionwear buys can last more than one event season.
Lorraine Kelly has worn this dreamy white summer dress, and we love the print, which is inspired by the landscapes of Tuscany. It's the ideal garden party dress if you've got a big date in the diary.
In a sensational shade of purple, this all-in-one is guaranteed to turn heads. It's available up to a size 26, and the wide leg trousers are super flattering.
Phase Eight has got it covered when it comes to occasionwear and this jacket is the perfect finishing touch. The peplum hem will nip you in at the waist, creating an hourglass silhouette and offers smart arm coverage too. A great staple, you can wear this over the best wedding guest dresses all year.
13. Ghost
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales has been spotted wearing British clothing brand Ghost in recent years, increasing its sartorial stock. Known for its gorgeously feminine frocks with a vintage aesthetic, it's a go-to for special occasions, such as what to wear to a christening, or those days when you just want to throw on a nice dress and feel good. With strong attention to detail, the silhouettes are effortless, combining a soft colour palette with timeless prints. Once you've added a Ghost dress to your collection, you'll never look back. Look for the brand's classic bias-cut silk tea dresses and slip skirts as a timeless wardrobe basic.
Flowy satin dresses might be what Ghost is famous for, but it's well worth checking out the rest of the collection too. How pretty is this cotton maxi dress?
As well as occasion frocks, Ghost delivers on chic separates. In the perfect shade of terracotta, team this scoop neck top with the matching trousers for an incredibly chic alternative to an occasion dress.
Ghost is second to none when it comes to bridesmaid dresses, and we love the sage green colour of this one. Timelessly chic, this will get endless wear in your wardrobe for decades to come. With the added interest of the diamond detailing it nails the simple yet stylish look.
14. Hobbs
From fancy occasion outfits to smart and stylish workwear, British clothing brand Hobbs knows a thing or two about dressing well. With a very diverse collection, Hobbs is well known for making some of the best occasionwear looks. Quality and classic cuts are at the heart of everything the brand does and even the basics feel premium, the kind of pieces you’d imagine Kate Middleton dresses in on her days off from royal duties.
This dress is a great option for what to wear to the races, and it's giving us real Pretty Woman vibes thanks to the polka dot print. All you need is simple black accessories and it's a foolproof formula for occasionwear.
There are only a handful of places to find a good fascinator on the high street, but Hobbs is undoubtedly one of them. This black and white option is a good investment, as it will pair perfectly with plenty of different dresses.
Hobbs never disappoints when it comes to staple workwear and we love these sleek straight leg trousers for every day. Play into the silhouette by dressing up with some black heels.
Cool British clothing brands
These are some of the coolest British clothing brands around right now. They're favourites amongst celebrities and fashion editors, and they release consistently fashion-forward lines.
15. Rixo
Launched in 2015 from the London living room of designers and friends Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey, Rixo has cornered the market for personality-packed prints. From the best midi dresses to slinky skirts, each piece has been carefully cut to suit a range of body types for a flattering, feminine silhouette. The brand has even launched a bridal collection and also has accessory and swimwear edits to meet all your wardrobe needs.
Rixo delivers wearable but playful prints in droves and the brand nails chic polka dots every time. This flirty and feminine lace-trimmed dress is the perfect ankle-skimming length for year-round casual or formal wear.
This vintage-inspired print blouse is a true statement piece that will bring in so many compliments. Loose and flowy without being too boxy, it is comfortable and extremely stylish.
A slip skirt is a staple and we love this chartreuse iteration. Team with gold, white or silver to create a shimmering daytime look or offset with dark boots for an evening ensemble.
16. Kitri
A British clothing brand with a difference, the London-based label was born out of the frustration of not being able to find well-made, distinctive designs that don't cost a fortune. While Kitri don't follow trends, you will find plenty of brightly-hued pieces that give a nod to the fashion colour trends, whilst its bold designs will be sure to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Another plus point, it's loved by the fashion crowd.
We love the versatility of a bold print midi skirt for all seasons. Team this skirt with the best white t-shirt and trainers for a chic daytime look, or get inspired by the spring/summer shoe trends 2024 and dress it up with a satin kitten heel.
This crochet dress has been on our wishlist for a while now. The multicoloured stripes are so eye-catching, and it's exactly the kind of piece that will work for all different types of weather.
In keeping with Kitri's dress collection, this long sleeved printed dress makes a beautiful statement. With elasticated cuffs, a fitted waist and voluminous A-line skirt, it is a seriously stunning number.
Best day to day British clothing brands
And finally, these are our go-to brands for day to day style. Whether it's office essentials, or laidback basics, the following stores get it just right.
17. Boden
Dreamt up by founder Johnnie Boden from his kitchen table, this quintessentially British clothing brand is sure to bring some joy to your wardrobe. Boden is big on colour and print, taking timeless silhouettes and reinventing them with playful design twists. Maximising staple silhouettes, such as the best shirts, gorgeous A-line skirts, and chic knitwear, it's a one-stop shop when it comes to building out your seasonal wardrobe.
Boden's latest swimwear collection nails grown-up boho, and this is one of our favourite one-pieces. It's one the of the best bathing suits for women over 50 thanks to the v-neckline and strategically placed print.
Few pieces are more stylish than a shirt dress and this version from Boden comes in several prints. An item that can be worn for every season, this is a true style staple.
Famous for doing bold colours well, Boden have some of the best Adidas Samba alternatives. These pink trainers are sure to put a spring in your step all year round.
18. Hush
Hush is all about relaxed dressing. Founded in 2003 by Australian Mandy Watkins, Hush was born out of her desire to solve her own wardrobe dilemmas after moving to the UK. The brand's signature style for easy, everyday dressing pieces that still feel trend-led but not overwhelmingly 'trendy' has been a huge hit with British fashion fans.
A light yet statement piece of outerwear is the key to perfecting any and every outfit, and this khaki number fits the bill perfectly. The ideal length for throwing over high-waisted jeans or a slip skirt, it's a style essential.
Denim maxi skirts are all the rage this season so there's no time like the present to invest in one. In a perfect mid-denim hue that will work for any season, this high-quality piece will soon become a spring/summer staple in your wardrobe.
This cardigan will keep you looking very stylish without compromising on cosiness when the cold creeps in. For a casual twist, team this knit with a pair of the best white trainers for a stylish getup.
19. Mint Velvet
The “relaxed glamour” ethos is at the heart of everything Mint Velvet does. Launched back in 2009, its founders wanted easy, glamorous clothes that its customers would wear from work to the school run to drinks with friends - a multi-tasking wardrobe that felt good too. Expect high-end basics such as the best loungewear, relaxed dresses and buttery-soft leather jackets.
There are a lot around right now, but for us, these are the perfect pair of leopard print jeans. Wear them as they're styled on the model with a chambray shirt and ballet flats, or team with a black cardigan and trainers.
This waistcoat can be worn on its own or layered over a white tee for added coverage. It's made from 100% linen, and the combination of the top and matching trousers really reminds us of Sienna Miller's best Wimbledon look.
20. Toast
Founded in 1997, Toast’s collections feature fuss-free minimalist closet staples that are beautifully designed. It’s one of the few British clothing brands with its own full pattern room, curating original high-quality pieces that are created to last. Every piece feels like it’s made with love and thought, with modern, easy-to-wear silhouettes and five-star fabrics. While the brand keeps trends in its peripheral vision, its distinctive brand aesthetic shines through every piece, offering feminine styles with a tailored and figure-flattering twist.
A refreshing twist on your usual denim, the Suki trousers boast a drawstring waist and a loose fit.
The perfect piece for those tricky transition between seasons, this loose, boxy cut will keep you cool whilst making a gorgeous statement. Ideal for throwing over a swimming costume or layering with tights and boots on chillier evenings, you will wear this year after year.
This v-neck top is the perfect alternative to a t-shirt for transitional weather, as it will be airy and breathable. Keep the rest of the silhouette slouchy for a true Toast look.
Best British clothing brands - where to browse
Based on our own wardrobes, these are the fashion team's 4 favourite British clothing brands.
- Nobody's Child: best for sustainable style from £22
- Ghost: best for vintage-inspired occasion dresses from £39
- LK Bennett: best for Royal style from £55
- Whistles: best for sleek separates from £39
Which British clothing brands ship internationally?
All of the British clothing brands on this list can be shipped worldwide. Just be sure to check the shipping costs and whether there are taxes to consider before adding to basket. We'd also recommend making a beeline for the bricks-and-mortar stores if you happen to be visiting the UK.
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