So you know nothing about high street shopping. Girl, don't worry

Here are some lesser-known high street shops for you to check out next time you hit the malls.

Don't be afraid to walk into these stores. You may think they cost the earth, but often you can nab great deals
There's a high street brand opening in The Dubai Mall at the end of April. Called & Other Stories, it's owned by Sweden's high street maestro Hennes & Mauritz and is known for its feminine, artistic and relaxed take on fashion. You could call it a more affordable version of Anthropologie.
A complete lifestyle brand, you will find everything here - from nail polishes to evening dresses, and even stationery. For a while, it was fashion's best kept secret. Then H&M decided to open flagship stores in cities of fashion all over the world, and now & Other Stories finally comes to Dubai. H&M is also the company behind COS, most working women's (over-30) go-to brand. 
And last week H&M announced it will be opening ARKET, a market-based concept store where you find fashion alongside a Nordic café. The industry is waiting to see what they have to offer. If you thought that high street shopping was just about Top Shop, Zara and Forever 21, think again. Here's a guide to the high street brands you should have on your radar.
Reformation
If it is a high fashion feel that you want, there is one label you'll find in New York that is head and shoulders above the rest: Reformation. If you are not headed for the Big Apple, then we strongly suggest you check out their website. A selection of Reformation's collection is on netaporter.com too. This is clothing that looks good on you, and that is good for the environment. Sustainable fashion has never been so pocket or wardrobe friendly. This dress alongside, is priced at $218 (about Dh800).
& Other Stories
This make comes to Dubai with an 890 sq m store in the heart of The Dubai Mall. With ateliers in Paris, Stockholm and Los Angeles, this brand truly has a feel of global bohemian luxe. What you get is very 'Coachella chic-meets high street'. With dresses that are priced at around Dh500, this is the store you should be making a beeline for to spruce up your summer wardrobe. From sunglasses to swimwear, they have it all - & Other Stories, The Dubai Mall - opening at the end of April.
Uterqüe
From the same company as Zara (Inditex), this label is the older sibling in terms of style. A favourite with many fashion editors, Uterqüe's quality especially when it comes to fabrics, is higher than its better known sister brand. From the summer collection, the crisp white poplin shirts with a soft peplum style detail is just a must and you can't own enough of their knot t-shirts. (Uterqüe, Mall of the Emirates and Mirdif City Centre Dubai). The black skirt is for Dh595.
Tezenis
Italy's high street lingerie brand is well-known for its underwear range - but they do amazing outerwear too. Girls who love jeggings would want to own a pair of their denims. They even have skirts. They fit well, are soft, long lasting and well-priced. And let's face it: can you ever own enough denim? (Tezenis, Mall of the Emirates). Denim skirts (right, worn by fashion blogger Sara Carnicella) start at Dh100 approx.
Ella
Namshi's in-house label, it is on the pulse as far as trends go, from pajama style shirts to high waist cigarette trousers. If there is a new style you want to try but don't wish to invest big money into it, check out Ella (namshi.com). Blue top (on the left) is for Dh119.
Sujata is our Fashion Editor. She makes it her business to stay on trend.
sujata@khaleejtimes.com

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