For some, figuring out how to spend your hard-earned money is just as hard as spending it. But if you’re anything like me, throwing your money at impulse purchases and fast fashion is easy.
What’s in your bank account right now might be able to get you those trendy pieces you’ll love for a season, but changing the direction of where those hard-earned dollars is what elevates your closet into something out of a Coveteur editorial.
Sometimes to have it all, you’ve got to go slow; you’ve got to save up for those collectors-worthy items — it just takes time, patience, and dedication. Easier said than done, I know. But you can get started with a few fashion classics that will never go out of style.
Here are 11 classic designer items worth splurging on:
Louis Vuitton Sarah Wallet
A Louis Vuitton wallet is a great classic designer investment piece for a couple of reasons. It’s much roomier than it looks and because it’s Louis Vuitton, you know you’ll use it forever. And for $810, it’s $970 cheaper than the iconic Neverfull GM – aka a steal (well not really, but you know what we mean).
Shop it here: Louis Vuitton, Sarah Wallet, $810
Chanel Earrings
A classic designer Chanel item that’s definitely worth investing in is their earrings. The earrings in their costume jewellery collection look much more expensive than they actually are, and wear just as well with a pair of jeans as they do an LBD.
Shop it here: Chanel, Gold, Pearly White & Crystal Earrings, $625
Burberry Trench Coat
A Burberry trench coat is probably one of the most timeless classic designer investment purchases you can make. This type of coat has been in style forever, and that does not appear to be changing any time soon. Also, if you live in a climate that has cold and rainy seasons, you’re guaranteed to get a ton of use out of it year after year.
Shop it here: Burberry, Kensington Heritage Trench Coat, $2,550
Cartier Love Bracelet
The Cartier love bracelet may have only become mainstream in recent years (thanks in part to Kylie Jenner who’s a huge fan), however, it’s actually been around since 1969. Famous for the unique way it’s put on (you have to lock it up with a mini screwdriver), this is a bracelet you can wear for the rest of your life – literally.
Shop it here: Cartier, Love Bracelet (Yellow Gold), $7,950
Gucci Loafers
Yes they cost a pretty penny, but a pair of Gucci loafers is a classic designer buy you’ll never regret. Whether you splurge on a pair of the backless mules or the classic closed-heel style, your feet will be so comfy (and look so good) you’ll never want to take them off.
Shop it here: Gucci, Princetown Embroidered Leather Slippers, $975
Tom Ford Sunglasses
Every girl needs a pair of classic black, Jackie-O style sunnies her collection. We love how these Tom Ford ones have a timeless look, but with a modern twist.
Buy it: Nordstrom, Tom Ford Alistair 56mm Gradient Sunglasses, $601.05
Chanel Double Flap Bag
If you want a big, tall glass of classic, a Chanel Double Flap Bag is it. The best investment would be the OG black caviar leather with gold hardware — it’ll last throughout your lifetime, well into your granddaughter’s. If you’re going to drop big bucks, get something you can wear through every season, with every outfit, for every occasion.
Luckily, you can almost always find it on sites like TheRealReal.com or Vestiaire Collective. Although the Chanel flap comes in a multitude of sizes, the medium is the most reliable. And not only will it exceed your cost-per-wear, but it will never lose its value.
Shop it here: The RealReal, Chanel Classic Double Flap Bags, $3,500 to $8,900
#OldCéline
Anyone with an appreciation for fashion knows getting your hands on any of Phoebe Philo’s designs for Céline is enough. As a collector, you know the adrenaline rush of scouting those #OldCéline wedges the Olsen Twins wore in the mid-2000s. With people seeking the resurgence of Bottega Venetta (#NewBottega) to maintain what is reminiscent of Philo’s palette, you can only truly attain it through her relics. Scour vintage shops, consignment stores, and qualified resellers to find your dream piece. I’ve set alerts for the Gourmette Bag in Green Suede from the Fall 2012 Collection and the Crystal Moon Hoops from one of her last collections. Or better yet, cop these studded beauties from a few years ago.
Shop it here: The RealReal, Céline Studded Pointed-Toe Mules, $608.21
AllSaints Moto Jacket
Whether it’s in brown suede or smooth black leather, the AllSaints Balfern is as necessary as ketchup on fries. This jacket will carry you through season after season, and like any good wine, gets better with age. Wear it in, age the leather, and soften its fit for a truly personal piece. This staple item can be scored during their end-of-season sales, but is worth paying full price. Plus, its ability to go with any look will guarantee your cost-per-wear ratio to be well worth it.
Shop it here: AllSaints, Balfern Leather Jacket, $615
Vintage Pucci
Like Old Céline, you can only truly appreciate Pucci’s designs by collecting his original designs. Although his gowns and swimwear are highly-coveted, all you need is a neck scarf to satiate your craving for his bright colourways and signature patterns. Add a little retro flare to any outfit with a subtle but significant accessory. The colourway in this classic neck scarf is both retro and wearable, so you get the perfect dosage.
Shop it here: The RealReal, Emilio Pucci Printed Square Scarf, $82.01
Premium denim
We all love a good pair of Topshop Jamies, considering we have them in every cut and wash. But investing in a good pair of premium denim will last you a good decade and wear into your perfect shape. One of my favourite brands is J Brand, which integrates comfort with style within their brand philosophy and design execution. It’s also a a go-to for celebrities. Cut for the most flattering fit, you’ll find just the right wash and in-seam with J Brand. Being 4’11, my favourite cut is the Alana Cropped. When it comes to premium denim, the price is always worth the splurge — just make sure that you’re getting a classic wash, like a classic black or indigo.
Shop it here: J Brand, Alana High-Rise Cropped Super Skinny In Fix, $228
Featured Image: Instagram/@karlakazemi
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When it comes to shopping, there are certain items that are worth spending a little extra money on, and certain things that you can get away with skimping out on. Things that you know you’ll get a ton of use out of, are things worth splurging on. But in the areas of your wardrobe where quantity beats quality, there’s plenty wiggle-room to save.
Check out a list of 5 wardrobe items to splurge on and 5 that can be saved on.
Splurge On:
1. Handbag
Instagram/ @peggy_loves
Handbags can get pricey, but they’re definitely worth the investment. With the right handbag, you may not have to upgrade for years to come, and if you pick one that’s neutral-coloured, you’ll be able to pair it with almost any outfit, for any occasion.
2. Blazer
Having a trusty, go-to blazer in your closet is always a good idea. Blazers are something that will never go out of style, and are extremely versatile. You can dress it up, and pair it with a mini-dress and heels for a night out, or a matching midi-skirt and turn it into a power-suit. You can also invest in an oversized one, and turn it into a dress, a look that is seriously trending right now.
3. Pumps
Instagram/ @stuartweitzman
You can never go wrong with a good pair of pumps. They’re a timeless classic that can take any outfit to the next level. But, you never want to take the cheapest route when it comes to heels, because usually, the cheaper they are, the more blisters they’re going to leave on your feet. Spending a little extra for guaranteed comfort is worth it.
4. Black Dress
A little black dress goes a long way. In fact, most of us have probably had the same little black dress in our wardrobes for years that we’ve worn to a million different things. They never go out of style, they match with everything, and they’re always a flattering choice on all body-types.
5. Jeans
Instagram/ @shophobnob
Finding a good, comfortable pair of jeans, that fits just right is an uphill battle —and most of the time if the price seems too good to be true, it’s because it is too good to be true. Cheap jeans are either too stiff, or stretch too much, fade easily, and become quickly worn. Stretching your budget for a good-fitting pair of jeans with a real life-span, is always worth the purchase.
Save On:
1. Jewelry
Instagram/ @mejuri
So long as you don’t have any allergies to cheap jewelry, buying it from Forever 21 might be the easier, more affordable option. Don’t get me wrong, it’s always nice to have a couple classic pieces of jewelry that you can keep forever — but buying fake jewelry allows you to buy more statement pieces to go with different outfits, the quality is decent, and it won’t break your heart if you accidentally lose a pair of $4 earrings.
2. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are things that are practically begging to be lost, broken, or stolen. I can’t even tell you how many pairs of sunglasses I go through every summer. So, opting for a pair of $7 sunglasses that are still just as stylish and sturdy as a pair of designer ones, has been a life-saver. Plus, it allows you to buy more pairs, for different looks.
3. Swimwear
Instagram/ @zaful
Designer swimwear is insanely pricey — and if you live in Canada, chances are, you have very few opportunities to wear a bathing suit each year, so spending copious amount on money on swimwear, just doesn’t make sense — especially since a $20 bikini is just as trendy, and will still get the job done.
4. Flats
Flats, unlike pumps, are almost always comfortable. So, why not spend $20 on a pair of loafers, and $15 on a pair of ballerina flats? Stock up your collection without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win.
5. Leggings
Women go through leggings like crazy, we basically need a pair for every day of the week. Buying that many high-end leggings would clean you out pretty fast. Try opting for cheap leggings at places like H&M, Forever 21, Sirens. Even Aritzia has leggings for under $25. It’s never been easier to own a fresh pair of leggings for working out, lounging, or just day-to-day wears.
Featured image: Instagram/ @nordstrom
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This past weekend I did a major closet overhaul, taking inventory of the items that I love and the items that I could live without. While a bit early in the season, this Spring Cleaning allowed me to dissect my closet and really assess everything that I own before shopping for anything new.
By tossing, donating or selling the items that no longer serve a purpose in my closet, I have more room for my next wardrobe splurge! This got me thinking… “Not every item in my closet is an investment piece”. Season after season, the same clothing categories appear in my toss pile because they are either damaged or dated and can’t stand the test of time in my wardrobe. Realizing this, I’ve compiled a list of the top five items to splurge on in your closet versus save on.
Which items are worth splurging on in your closet?
1. A Little Black Dress
A staple little black dress is quintessential in your wardrobe. The best LBDs are transitional pieces that can take you from the office to happy hour, to a wedding (if necessary). Splurging on a mid-length little black dress in a washable material is always a safe bet.
2. A Leather Jacket
The look and feel of a leather jacket can instantly take any outfit to a whole new level. When splurging on a leather jacket, avoid styles that are too trendy (i.e. with lots of fringe or buckles,) as these may become dated and lessen the versatility of the jacket.
3. A Pair of High Heels
A great pair of high heels can take you to new places, as well as elevate nearly any outfit! Invest in a quality pair of black high heels that are a comfortable height and easy to walk in, you won’t regret it.
4. A Blazer
You can’t go wrong with splurging on a well-tailored blazer. A fitted, long sleeve blazer can elevate any look by adding a bit of polish to your outfit. Look for styles with a patterned lining to add some interest when you wear it with the sleeves rolled up.
5. A Structured Handbag
Why purchase twenty not-so-incredible purses, when you can invest in one reallllyyy gorgeous handbag? A sleek, medium-sized, structured handbag will go a long way in your wardrobe when it doubles as a travel carry-on, laptop bag or briefcase.
When splurging on pieces for your closet, keep in mind the following: go for neutral colours that will coordinate with almost anything, check the item’s tag to note the washing instructions (i.e. dry clean only) and take into consideration the price of tailoring an item to your body type (if necessary,) as this will add to your investment.
Which items are worth saving on in your closet?
1. Costume Jewellery
The name alone should tell you that this isn’t an item in your wardrobe that will be worn frequently and therefore is not worth splurging on.
2. Jeans
With so many styles and washes to choose from, you’re likely going to own way more than just one pair of jeans in your wardrobe. Therefore, the cost of investing in multiple pairs of quality jeans far outweighs the value in the long run.
3. Workout Gear
If you workout on the regular, then you know just how much wear and tear your gear goes through at the gym. Don’t splurge on workout gear, knowing that frequently worn pieces will likely only provide the elasticity or support needed for the first few months.
4. Special Occasion Wear
Purchasing a fancy dress or gown for a special occasion? Think again, your outfit will not be worth the expense of only wearing it once. Instead, we suggest tapping into your friend’s closets, consignment stores or renting a dress from shops like Studio Fitzroy to save the big bucks.