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.