Karina ReddyWith the speeding pace of “fast fashion,” it can be hard to discern which items are worth buying and which will be obsolete before you can even wear it. While trends come and go, some pieces stand the test of time. Some may stay relevant continuously and others may fade for a few years before popping again. But these six classic items are worth investing in.
The White Button Down
There’s nothing more classic than a crisp white button down, this staple will never go out of style. Versatility keeps this relevant: a work basic, pair it with nice black trousers or a pencil skirt; throw a sweater over it for a preppy look; pair it with jeans and flats for a casual yet polished look. Having this classic top in your closet guarantees you’ll never be without a stylish and sophisticated look.
The Cable Knit Sweater
This old favorite has seen a resurgence in recent years. But the cable knit sweater is one that’s loved by hipsters, prepsters, and old fishermen alike. The sweater was originally devised to keep 19th century fishermen warm, but soon became a staple of leisurely pursuits such as golf and cricket, as well. Today, nothing’s cozier on a cold winter day, and like the white button down it can be paired with any number of items for any number of looks!
The Tweed or Wool Blazer
Blazers in general are a versatile piece in your closet, but it’s worth investing in a well-fitting tweed blazer. Developed for warmth on Scottish and Irish estates in the mid-19th century, the tweed jacket is often associated with the British aristocracy’s leisurely pursuits and early 20th century academics. This preppy favorite more recently rose in popularity for young women in the eighties. It has recently been seen on Kate Middleton and on Roxy in the movie Kingsman: The Secret Service, it is the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. Adding a touch of class to any outfit it’s thrown over, a well-tailored, well-made tweed blazer can be worn for years to come.
The Black Heels
Every so often the fashion world predicts the demise of heels. Yet pumps have continued to have a place in most women’s closets for years. And if it’s worth investing in one pair, it may as well be one that will always be relevant. A pair of black suede heels with a rounded toe are a classic option that won’t go out of style. Finding a pair that’s comfortable and durable can ensure use for years to come.
The Little Black Dress
This staple stormed on the scene in the 1920s and hasn’t left since. First popularized by Coco Chanel herself, the little black dress is a wardrobe’s most powerful weapon. For years, black dresses were only associated with mourning, but since Chanel introduced the black dress for everyday wear, the LBD has had a place in every woman’s closet. It can be worn to any number of events and occasions; a basic LBD transcends time and place.
The Trench Coat
Yet another wardrobe staple that has a history in gentlemen’s clothing, the trench coat has humble beginnings in Great Britain in the 1820s. But it wasn’t until the early 1900s and two British wars (the Boer War and World War I) that the trench coat became popular, with Burberry claiming to have invented the modern trench. Cue one hundred years of trench coats, as the raincoat is just as popular today as it was with British officers. Holly Golightly adding a touch of glamour in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the trench coat won a place in fashion girls’ closets. A classic khaki trench coat is the perfect coat to thrown on on a rainy spring day.
These six pieces have demonstrated their longevity. Invest in one of these pieces and be confident that you can wear it for years to come!