Ten years ago, I dreaded nothing more than a shopping trip with my mother. At 15, I was glued to my phone while she deliberated over a camel blazer at Karen Millen. If lucky, I'd persuade her to pop into River Island, where she'd grow bored as I tried on cropped vests. Today, at 25 and 61, we happily spend whole days shopping together, sharing a changing room and trying on the same jeans.
This shift extends beyond us. Across the High Street, generational boundaries are blurring. Campaigns featuring Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber for Zara, Heidi and Leni Klum for Intimissimi, and Yasmin Le Bon with Amber Le Bon for George at Asda all reinforce that style transcends age. Youth-focused brands appeal to older consumers, while heritage names signal quality to younger shoppers.
For my mother Christine and me, borrowing from each other's wardrobes is second nature. Here are six High Street brands we both love, with our favourite items.
Reiss
Reiss is known for tailoring, but we both rate its denim. The Sakura patch-pocket jeans (£158) are a joint favourite, thanks to a smart front crease, forgiving fit, and three leg lengths. Though pricier, the quality justifies the investment.
Marks & Spencer
M&S has undergone a quiet revolution under womenswear director Maddy Evans. Now, rails appeal to Gen Z shoppers like me without alienating core customers. This season, outerwear shines, especially trench coats. Mum loves 'The Trench' (£95) for its resemblance to pricier styles; I favour the mini puff short-sleeved version (£50).
ME+EM
For occasionwear, ME+EM is unbeatable. Mum's favourite is the cream Leg Elongator Jumpsuit (£395); I've chosen the navy Very Wide-Leg Jumpsuit (£395). Despite the price, I maximise cost-per-wear with trainers, boots, or flip-flops.
River Island
I've abandoned skimpy vests but not River Island. It has matured, thanks to collaborations with British brands. This floral shirt dress (£69) from the Cabbages & Roses collection caught Mum's eye, and I plan to borrow it for pub trips.
Holland Cooper
For race day, Holland Cooper excels. Trendy yet elegant, its pussybow blouses (£149) and high-waisted trousers (£299) are reliable co-ords for Mum. I prefer three-piece suits as investment staples.
Mint Velvet
In warmer months, we turn to Mint Velvet for linen and embroidered pieces. My favourite is the cream embroidered jeans (£140); Mum loves the linen dresses. Red, the season's must-have colour, shines in their red broderie midi dress (£160) and linen military trim top (£89).
