The best British clothing brands are really enjoying their moment in the spotlight. We all know how amazing M&S is at the moment - but lesser-known labels like Mint Velvet, Hush and Albaray certainly aren't far behind.
Modern, wearable and effortlessly stylish, these names are hard to beat, and they literally dress the nation. “British clothing brands are known for their innovative design and craftsmanship, and they’ve shaped the global fashion landscape for decades,” says personal stylist Natalie Robinson.
She adds that the impact goes beyond aesthetics: “Many British brands are increasingly focused on ethical standards and responsible production. British manufacturing is recognised for its quality and adherence to industry best practice and it’s part of why 52% of UK exporters say the ‘Made in Britain’ label boosts their sales.”
French clothing brands like Sézane offer a certain je ne sais quoi with their effortlessly chic aesthetic, while American clothing brands can be quite preppy. But the beauty of the best British clothing brands is their rich heritage that spans classic tailoring to cutting-edge trends. The result? A fashion scene that blends heritage with modernity and delivers everyday style that really earns its place in your spring capsule wardrobe.
Most affordable
The most affordable brands offer high-quality pieces at lower prices. A good comparison point is how much an occasion dress costs, and at Next, M&S and John Lewis, you can find some really pretty options for under £100.
1. M&S
Founded: 1884
Known for: Great lingerie, quality clothing and Percy Pigs
Returns: Free, in-store or via Evri or Royal Mail
One of the most famous British clothing brands, there are few as iconic as M&S. Brits shop here for everything from food to underwear, 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 – for example, you can’t go wrong with Marks & Spencer jeans. 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 means there is even more product on site.
2. Next
Founded: 1982
Known for: Mega Boxing Day sale, celebrity collaborations and easy-to-wear pieces
Returns: Free in-store, but costs £2.50 to send back via Evri or Royal Mail
From its workwear-focused beginnings in the '80s, Next has transformed into a retail powerhouse that dresses the whole family. While it's still a great place to pick up women's trouser suits, it now offers a range of trend-led and classic pieces at reasonable prices. Beyond its own range, it's brought other beloved British brands under its umbrella, including Made, Cath Kidston and Joules. Its comprehensive website has become a one-stop destination for both fashion and homeware, while collaborations with designers like Tabitha Simmons and celebrities like Kelly Brook and Rochelle Humes keep things current. With dedicated curve, maternity, petite and tall ranges, Next truly caters to everyone.
3. John Lewis
Founded: 1864
Known for: Quality you can trust, excellent customer service and selling everything from fashion to furniture under one roof.
Returns: Free in-store or via Royal Mail, however, larger items, such as furniture, incur a £29.95 collection fee.
A true British institution, John Lewis has built its reputation on reliability, quality and that reassuring “never knowingly undersold” promise. While it’s long been the go-to for classic wardrobe staples and elegant occasionwear, the fashion offering has had a stylish refresh in recent years – think modern tailoring, trend-aware edits, exclusive own-brand collections like AND/OR and collabs with the likes of Rejina Pyo. The online store makes it easy to browse a carefully curated selection of brands – Whistles and Mint Velvet to small, sustainable labels – alongside homeware, beauty and tech. Plus, it has a pre-owned section selling designer bags and jewellery at seriously reduced prices – perfect if you're after a luxury piece without the luxury price tag. Whether you’re shopping for the best wedding guest outfit, a new sofa or just a really great pair of jeans, John Lewis rarely lets you down.
4. FatFace
Founded: 1988
Known for: Clothes made for "life's everyday adventures", including outdoor wear
Returns: Free to return items (full price or sale) to any FatFace or Next store within 28 days of receipt. You can also do postal returns via Evri, for a £2.50 charge
FatFace was the brainchild of two friends who loved skiing. It was set up in the late Eighties and named after a black mountain ski run in Val d'Isère, France. After experiencing success in ski resorts, their first physical shop opened on London's Fulham Road in 1993. Fast forward to today, and they recently launched a limited collaboration with the V&A.
Best for day-to-day
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.
5. Boden
Launched: 1991
Known for: Breton tops, quality classics and signature bright colours and prints
Returns: Free, with a 90-day return period
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 all-rounder shirts, gorgeous A-line skirts and chic knitwear, it's a one-stop shop when it comes to building out your seasonal wardrobe. Don’t forget to check out the seasonal Boden sales as well – they have amazing offers, so it’s a great chance to update your wardrobe.
6. Hush
Launched: 2003
Known for: Elevated loungewear, commitment to slow fashion and timeless designs with a contemporary edge
Returns: Free returns and exchanges. They also offer an extended Christmas returns period
Hush is all about relaxed dressing. Founded 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 has been a huge hit with British fashion fans. Think beautifully soft fabrics, considered cuts and a neutral palette punctuated with seasonal pops of colour. Hush is the go-to for elevated basics – linen shirts, cosy knitwear, wide-leg trousers and midi dresses that work just as well for the school run as they do for weekend brunches.
7. Mint Velvet
Launched: 2009
Known for: Relaxed glamour, a wearable palette of neutrals, and luxurious fabrics.
Returns: Free, within 28 days
The “relaxed glamour” ethos is at the heart of everything Mint Velvet does. 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 loungewear, relaxed dresses and buttery-soft leather jackets. While the brand sits firmly in the premium bracket, the Mint Velvet sale is your chance to score their sophisticated pieces at more accessible prices.
8. Toast
Launched: 1997
Known for: Relaxed silhouettes, minimalist aesthetic, commitment to organic and sustainable materials
Returns: Free returns via store or Royal Mail
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. Every piece feels like it’s made with love and thought, with modern, easy-to-wear silhouettes and five-star fabrics. The brand knows what's trending but stays true to its own distinctive aesthetic – think feminine cuts with a tailored, figure-flattering edge that makes everything feel just right.
9. With Nothing Underneath
Launched: 2017
Known for: Making the perfect everyday shirt
Returns: Free within 14 days, via Royal Mail or in store
WNU was established by former Vogue stylist and Tatler editor Pip Durrell, who used to adjust men's shirts to wear herself. She saw a gap in the market for the perfect shirt, which WNU makes in all sorts of shapes and fabrics, from linen to denim. Both Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton are fans, and in recent seasons the brand has added dresses, coats and knitwear to the collections. This is the brand for you if you're in your minimalist era.
10. Jigsaw
Launched: 1970
Known for: Polished everyday pieces, modern tailoring, and a quietly confident British aesthetic
Returns: Free via Royal Mail or in-store
Jigsaw has mastered the art of smart yet effortless dressing. Its collections strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined – think fluid tailoring, elevated wardrobe staples and wear-everywhere dresses. Fun fact: Kate Middleton once worked at Jigsaw as an accessories buyer, reportedly taking the job part-time to balance royal commitments. And like Kate’s own style, the brand favours classic cuts with a modern edge – polished, put-together and never trying too hard.
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. Rixo
Launched: 2015
Known for: Vintage-inspired designs, printed dresses and their oh-so-chic bridal collection
Returns: Free returns within 14 days
Launched from the London living room of designers and friends Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey, Rixo has cornered the market for personality-packed prints. From some of 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.
12. Needle & Thread
Launched: 2013
Known for: Intricate embellishments, romantic details and beautiful bridal gowns
Returns: Free via Royal Mail
Founded by Hannah Coffin, 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 need 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 dresses 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.
13. Phase Eight
Launched: 1979
Known for: Elegant occasionwear, unique prints and flattering silhouettes
Returns: Free to stores or £1.95 via Royal Mail
Phase Eight was originally launched in Wandsworth, South London, by Patsy Seddon to create clothing for busy mums like her. Today, it reigns supreme in the art of event dressing. The British clothing brand offers a sophisticated mix of both statement and everyday pieces, united by its exceptional attention to fit. While its occasion wear continues to shine – with dresses and jumpsuits that strike the perfect balance between trend-aware and timeless – its expanding casual collection proves it's just as adept at elevating the everyday. The result? A brand that seamlessly transitions from momentous celebrations to Monday mornings.
Luxury
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 at ME+EM 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.
14. ME+EM
Launched: 2009
Known for: High-quality tailoring and pieces that don't date
Returns: Free, via Royal Mail
When it comes to investment pieces that stand the test of time, ME+EM leads the pack. Founded by former advertising executive Claire Hornby with a vision for functional yet flattering contemporary wear, the brand excels in versatile separates and dresses. Its carefully curated collections blend neutral staples with purposeful pops of colour and print, all designed to mix and match effortlessly. Though contemporary in feel, each piece is crafted with longevity in mind, sidestepping fleeting trends in favour of enduring style. Worn by celebrities including the Princess of Wales, Margot Robbie and Sienna Miller. It's no wonder ME+EM is becoming a go-to for modern investment pieces. 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.
15. Reiss
Launched: 1971
Known for: Sharp tailoring, luxe occasionwear and ‘that’ royal engagement dress
Returns: Free in-store, £1.95 via Evri
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 place for fashion-forward blazers, smart shirting, workwear trousers and some of the best wedding guest dresses on the high street. 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. If you’re on a budget, keep an eye out for Reiss Black Friday deals for a chance to snag these luxurious pieces at a lower price.
16. AllSaints
Launched: 1994
Known for: Signature leather jackets, 2-in-1 dresses, edgy aesthetic and slouchy knits
Returns: Free in-store and via Royal Mail
Known for making some of the best leather jackets and biker boots, AllSaints is a top UK brand you can rely on for pieces with an edge. Its well-cut denim, for example, is a great place to find the best jeans for your body type, with a range of styles and washes to suit different preferences. From oversized knits to those perfect jeans, 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.
17. Whistles
Launched: 1976
Known for: Modern silhouettes, understated luxury and elevated wardrobe staples with a cool, contemporary edge
Returns: Free in-store or via Royal Mail. They offer an extended Christmas return period
A premium British clothing brand, Whistles is loved by the fashion crowd for standout interpretations of runway trends at more accessible price points. Covering everything from knitwear to outerwear and some of the best dresses, Whistles also has a stellar bridal collection for those who want a more fashion-forward feel. The brand excels at elevating everyday pieces with contemporary twists - think classic blazers with unexpected cuts, or midi dresses with architectural details. With a knack for balancing timeless appeal with current trends, they've mastered that sweet spot between high street and high-end, making luxury style more attainable.
18. The Fold
Launched: 2012
Known for: Polished tailoring and luxurious occasionwear, worn by the Princess of Wales and Pippa Middleton
Returns: Free within 14 days, by Royal Mail or to store
The Fold was founded in 2012 by Polly McMaster, who set out to redefine women's workwear. Their boardroom-ready dresses are particularly exquisite, and the brand soon became a regular fixture at Royal events - for example, Pippa Middleton wore a dress by The Fold to attend Harry and Meghan's wedding. You really do get what you pay for - these are investment pieces to wear and treasure forever.
Most sustainable
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.
19. Nobody's Child
Launched: 2015
Known for: Puff sleeved dresses, pretty patterns and affordable, sustainable fashion
Returns: Free. They don’t accept online returns to their three London stores
Nobody’s Child is one of our favourite British clothing brands for both affordable and trend-led pieces. From floaty midi dresses and pretty blouses to sturdy denim and wear-forever outerwear, it’s a brand that caters to most tastes while keeping things timeless. They use organic, lower-impact or recycled materials, earning them serious sustainability points. They’ve even introduced rental and repair services to help extend the life of your wardrobe.
20. Aspiga
Launched: 2006
Known for: Sustainable fashion, vibrant prints, and relaxed, resort-inspired style
Returns: Free in-store or £3.50 via their own returns portal
Aspiga started life selling handmade sandals and belts crafted by artisans in Kenya, and that commitment to ethical, considered fashion still runs through everything they do. Today, the brand offers a full wardrobe of feel-good pieces, blending bold prints, natural fabrics and easy, flattering silhouettes. Sustainability is at the heart of the brand, with eco-conscious materials like organic cotton, TENCEL™ and linen, plus a focus on fair wages and small-batch production. Whether you’re after a holiday hero dress or effortless everyday staples, Aspiga brings a sunshine-soaked aesthetic with a conscience – thoughtful fashion that looks good, and does good too.
21. White Stuff
Launched: 1985
Known for: In-house designed quirky prints, natural fabrics and striking colour combinations
Returns: Free in-store or with Evri, £2.00 via Royal Mail
White Stuff was created by two ski enthusiasts back in 1985 - 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. 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% of all clothing being made using materials that are kinder to people and the planet.
22. Damson Madder
Launched: 2020
Known for: Eye-catching prints like leopard and gingham, plus statement collars and designs that go viral
Returns: Returns cost £3.50 via Royal Mail. Sale purchases must be returned in 14 days (non-sale is 28 days), items altered with the tailoring service are non-refundable
Founded during lockdown in 2020, Damson Madder isn't just one of the newest British clothing brands on this list - it's also one of the most sustainable. In 2025, over 92% of the cotton Damson Madder used was organic or recycled cotton, and over 75% of the fibres used are plant-based. Founder Emma Hill is a former fashion buyer, who had "begun to become disillusioned by some of the bad practices that I saw going on behind the scenes. I wanted to focus on something slower, more considered, and more responsible, but where innovative and exciting design was still the driving force."
23. Albaray
Launched: 2021
Known for: Easy-to-wear dresses (with pockets!), great quality basics and trend-led denim
Returns: All returns are free within 30 days, and they also offer free exchanges
Albaray is quickly becoming a must-have British brand, despite only launching in 2021. Founded by three fashion veterans during lockdown, this eco-conscious brand is now stocked by major retailers like John Lewis and M&S. Albaray proves that sustainability doesn't mean sacrificing style, offering a range of trendy pieces from playful prints to wardrobe staples. By utilising recycled polyester, organic denim and deadstock fabrics, they create contemporary clothing with a lower environmental impact. Its Re-Loved Collection takes things further, offering returned items at reduced prices, proof that circular fashion can be both stylish and accessible.
24. Brora
Launched: 1993
Known for: Cosy Fair Isle knits
Returns: Free within 14 days, via Royal Mail or in a UK store
An antidote to fast fashion, Brora works with expert craftspeople and artisans. Not only does that mean incredible quality pieces, but also that Brora contributes to preserving traditional skills that might otherwise be lost. Where possible, they use local suppliers, and their Scottish cashmere and Fair Isle knits have been worn by none other than Claudia Winkleman when hosting The Traitors. There's much more to the brand than just knitwear though! Here at woman&home, we particularly love Brora dresses.
25. Aligne
Launched: 2021
Known for: Trend-led tailoring and denim, as well as elevated everyday staples
Returns: Returns cost £3.50
Aligne may be one of the newer names on the block, but it’s already made a big impression. The London-based brand champions timeless design with a contemporary twist – from throw-on-and-go dresses to sharp tailoring and trend-led denim that never feels overdone. Sustainability is at its core, with organic cotton, recycled fibres and low-impact production baked into every collection. Fit matters too: Aligne has partnered with SOJO to offer a seamless, high-quality tailoring service – they even cover part of the cost to help you get the perfect fit. With clean lines, neutral tones and clever details (yes, most dresses have pockets), Aligne is ideal for building a wardrobe that feels both thoughtful and effortlessly cool.
FAQs
Best British clothing brands - where to browse?
Based on our own wardrobes, these are the fashion team's four favourite British clothing brands.
- Nobody's Child: best for sustainable style from £25
- Hush: best for laidback luxe from £35
- M&S: best for on-trend pieces from £8
- Whistles: best for sleek separates from £35
Which British clothing brands ship internationally?
Many 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're in the UK.
