Brands like Primark, but better...
Author: Stylist and brand team at TellarDate: 2025
Why Elevate from Primark?
Primark offers unbeatable prices and trend-forward fast fashion—but often at the expense of quality, durability, and sustainability. If you’re aiming for a wardrobe that lasts and looks sharper, here’s how to switch smartly:
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Fabric quality: Natural fibers (cotton, linen, wool) age better and offer comfort.
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Craftsmanship matters: Strong stitching, reinforced seams, and reliable hardware make all the difference.
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Better cost-per-wear: Spending a bit more upfront on a quality piece saves money in the long run.
1. Affordable Yet Elevated Basics
H&M & COS
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H&M offers lifted basics—think structured tees, smarter knits, and tapered trousers that feel more refined.
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COS, H&M’s premium offshoot, features minimalist designs and quality fabrics crafted to last.
🔗 Explore more: How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe That Lasts
2. Mid‑Range High‑Street Winners
Marks & Spencer
Famed for its tailored linen shirts, chino pants, and knitwear. Their “Plan A” sustainability frame boosts ethical credentials.
🔗 Discover: Smart Tailoring for Every Budget
Massimo Dutti
Offers sophisticated wardrobe staples—tailored trousers, cashmere blend sweaters, linen shirts—with a polished, timeless aesthetic.
Arket
Part of the H&M Group, this brand focuses on clean, Scandinavian-inspired designs and well-constructed garments.
3. Sustainable & Ethical Options
Pact
An excellent choice for organic, fair-trade basics—think buttery-soft tees and underwear made with ethical production in mind.
🔗 Check out: Why Ethical Brands Are Worth Investing In
4. On-Trend with Lasting Quality
Uniqlo
Renowned for high-quality cotton tees, Merino wool layers, HeatTech thermals, and fine finishings that hold up.
Ganni
For those who like a playful twist—bold prints, statement dresses, and a strong sense of style without sacrificing build.
Tom Tailor
Delivers classic casualwear (jeans, tees, shirts) with enhanced fabric weight and better tailoring.
5. Smart Upgrades from Value Lines
Asda’s George & Tesco F&F
These supermarket labels have seriously upped their game. Think: trendy cuts, better fabrics—all at value prices.
6. Savvy Shopping Tips
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Scan the fabric: Cotton counts > polyester. Linen and merino are excellent for durability.
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Inspect seams: Reinforced stitches and quality buttons mean clothes that last.
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Think cost‑per‑wear: Spending £40 that you wear 40+ times is a far better investment than a £10 throwaway tee.
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Blend strategy: Mix elevated basics with trend-forward low-cost pieces.
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Use sales wisely: Look out for deals at M&S, COS, Uniqlo, and Ganni.
7. One‑Week Wardrobe Upgrade Plan
Day |
Outfit Item |
Brand & Why |
---|---|---|
Mon |
Heavy cotton white tee |
COS – cleaner drape, better stitching |
Tue |
Tailored trousers |
Massimo Dutti – luxe cut and refined fabric |
Wed |
Merino wool sweater |
Uniqlo – light, warm, and pill-resistant |
Thu |
Linen blend shirt |
Marks & Spencer – breathable and smartly tailored |
Fri |
Everyday jeans |
Tom Tailor – durable denim with sharper fit |
Sat |
Midi dress (cotton) |
Tesco F&F – stylish print, structured feel |
Sun |
Organic tee |
Pact – soft, ethical option to close the week |
🔗 Build on this: Accessorise: Build a Timeless Edit
8. Styling & Fit Advice
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Tailor oversized pieces: Cropped trousers with a slim belt? Instant polish.
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Layer wisely: Basic tee + knit + tailored coat = layered sophistication.
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Add texture: Mix linen, cotton, and wool to give outfits depth.
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Elevate with one statement item: A colourful Ganni dress or patterned scarf can define your look.
9. The Role of Quality Investment
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Longevity: Reduce waste & wardrobe turnover.
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Versatility: Neutral cuts and colors mean you can mix and match easily.
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Sustainability: Many brands listed emphasize eco-friendly sourcing and transparency.
10. Stay Connected with Tellar
For daily style inspo, brand tips, and fit fixes:
Instagram – @Tellarsizing
Twitter/X – @TellarSizing
Facebook – Tellar Sizing
Final Take
Primark’s low prices are hard to beat—until the clothes don’t last. For a subtle yet high-impact wardrobe upgrade, invest in better quality from trusted high-street and sustainable brands. You’ll enjoy more wear, less waste, and greater style confidence.
Let Tellar be your guide: smarter brands, stronger wardrobe, better you.
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