While French Connection's shops lack atmosphere, they are a dream for girls who want to “get the look” with minimal effort.

FC's long-sleeved jersey dresses come with stiff origami folds (£65), while sweaters, long-sleeved basics and blazers are given extra shape with shoulder pads.

Houndstooth crops up on a boyfriend blazer and on beautifully cut peg-leg trousers (£95), and printed T-shirts, echoing those of Luella Bartley and Marc Jacobs, are key to the store's casual range. But it is in denim and tailoring that FC really excels.

Jeans come in every wash and style, while workwear trousers and blazers are cut nicely from quality fabrics.

But the store's drawback is its pricing. Tailored items and super-soft leather pieces do merit a high price but a sequin dress at £226 is overpriced.

While FC may be a great place for capsule pieces, the more discerning cash-strapped fast-fashion customer will head for H&M.

Staff: friendly and helpful
Quality: of a high standard — the best on the high street
Fitting rooms: run-down, with nowhere to sit
Best buy: polka-dot cardi, £60