I have a soft spot for Primark. There—I said it. As someone who spends a lot of time testing outfit formulas and hunting for pieces that feel polished without costing the earth, I’m always on the lookout for high-impact, low-cost finds. Over the years I’ve learned how to spot the Primark items that genuinely *look* three times the price, and how to style them so they read elevated rather than cheap.
Below I’m sharing the pieces I reach for again and again, plus simple styling tricks that make each one look thoughtful and modern. These are practical, budget-friendly picks that work across different wardrobes and body shapes — and most importantly, they’re easy to mix with the nicer pieces you already own.
Structured blazers
Primark blazers are a game-changer when you choose the right silhouette. Look for a blazer with a neat shoulder (not too padded), a slightly nipped-in waist and a clean lapel. Neutral colours—black, camel, navy or oatmeal—always read more expensive.
How I style them:
Wool-blend coats
Primark’s wool-blend coats often have great structure and clean lines. The trick is to pick a longer length (mid-calf or knee) and a classic collar. Avoid overly shiny buttons and look for matte finishes and minimalist details.
How I style them:
Tailored trousers
Well-cut trousers are one of the fastest ways to look put together. Primark’s tailoring has come a long way: aim for a high-rise, straight-leg or slightly tapered cut. Heavier fabrics with a slight weight hang better and photograph well.
How I style them:
Quality knitwear (look for weight and finish)
Not all cheap knitwear is created equal. Look for pieces with a tidy finish at the seams, a good weight, and minimal piling. Chunky knits and fine merino-look jumpers in neutral shades are my go-tos.
How I style them:
Classic accessories: belts, bags and shoes
Accessories are where Primark really shines: a structured faux-leather bag, a smart belt with a metallic buckle or a pair of pointed boots can transform an outfit. These items are often so close to luxury counterparts that, styled well, they pass for higher-end.
How I style them:
Basic tees and shirts that layer well
Primark’s basics are brilliant for anchoring outfits. Look for tees with a slightly heavier cotton (not see-through) and shirts with crisp collars and decent button placement.
How I style them:
Dresses with good drape
Look for midi dresses in satin, crepe or weighty jersey that skim rather than cling. Wrap styles and shirt dresses are particularly flattering and look more expensive when they fit well.
How I style them:
Styling rules that make Primark pieces look expensive
There are a few simple rules I use every time I shop or style a Primark find. They’re easy to apply and make a huge difference:
| Item | What to look for | Styling tip |
| Blazer | Structured shoulder, neat lapel, neutral colour | Belt over dress or wear with silk cami + trousers |
| Wool-blend coat | Matte buttons, long length, minimal details | Layer monochrome neutrals, add leather gloves |
| Trousers | High-rise, heavier fabric, straight/tapered leg | Pair with loafers and a tucked knit |
| Accessories | Structured bag, metal-buckle belt, pointed boots | Keep contents tidy, polish shoes |
I love that Primark allows experimenting without a big financial commitment. When you shop with intention—focusing on silhouette, fabric weight and neutral colours—you can create looks that feel refined and considered. Try adding one or two of the pieces above to your wardrobe and style them using the tips here; you might be surprised how easily budget finds can look utterly luxe.
