Buy Now, Wear Forever: 4 Wardrobe essentials that are worth the invest

Splurge-worthy pieces to shop right now and why we adore them.

by Lindsay Samson

Jan 19, 2021

Investment pieces: they are the first line of defense against the temptation of fast fashion. Though such pieces may not exactly provide instant gratification, in some cases requiring one to save up for the purchase, high quality, classic pieces are always well worth the wait, and as eternally dependable as they are, often turn out to be more economical in the long run. Besides, investing intentionally in your closet also minimizes your environmental impact since the frequent purchasing of throw-away items is a factor that contributes to the obscene amount of waste created by the fashion industry.

Largely thought of as those closet heroes that come with a hefty price tag but are worth the splurge, investment pieces don’t always necessitate the emptying of your bank account—there are plenty of designers producing finely crafted garments and accessories that are built to go the distance. Read on to discover four of the pieces to invest in now, and cherish for a lifetime.

the coat

If there was ever a wardrobe piece worth investing in, this is it. The first thing to reach for when the air begins to chill and the outside temperatures start to drop, it also makes for an excellent finishing touch to many an ensemble even when the elements are less punishing. One of its often turned to iterations is the oversized black one, and Taibo Bacar’s gold embroidered coat is an ultra-glam interpretation of this trope, with its expert tailoring and a sleek silhouette. Wear it as the final layer of a bundled up winter outfit, or throw it over a high-waisted trouser to achieve functional sophistication. If you, however, find black to be a bore, printed styles like the Peacock Midi Coat by Christie Brown may prove more up your alley.

the cross-body bag

When it comes to investing in a no-brainer bag, the classic crossbody style tote has long been among the top choices. And though it’s an investment buy that’s usually on the pricier end, its blend of durability, practicality and luxury make it worth the spend. Versatile and comfortable, this piece marries craftsmanship with indispensable utility, and as the Nikki Messenger Bag by South African designer Thalia Strates, its handcrafted two-tone leather form serves as a striking addition to just a jeans, tee, and sneaker combination. Khokho Collection’s Jabu in Quartz or Sandstone on the other hand is a chic merging of two classic styles: the basket bag and the cross body staple. A flexible addition that sits well in a variety of ensembles, pair it with a simple cotton dress and leather jacket.

the shirtdress

Investment pieces shirk trends; the fact that they’re relatively seasonless is the very reason we consider them an investment to begin with. And when it comes to the shirtdress, we’re hard-pressed to think of an occasion for which it’s not right. An always flattering piece that can handle a full day’s work and an after hours al fresco dinner. The garment exudes a casual elegance that’s unmatched and, depending on what you pair it with, can equally present as the epitome of summertime ease or that of polished formality. Featuring a classic button front and a distinctive collared neckline, the sweeping, cinched-waist shirtdress by Ghana’s Studio 189 is a piece worth making room in your closet for. Worn with a block-heeled mule and delicate drop earring, the shirtdress’s casual refinement works in the office or at a dinner party, while partnering with a crisp, clean sneaker and oversized tote is all that’s needed to get those weekend errands done in style.

statement jewels

There’s something about bold, luxe jewelry that has always felt extra special. Perhaps it has something to do with their status as a gift of love and the sentimentality we tend to attach to them; whatever the case may be, they’re the ultimate “buy now, wear forever” item, one that usually lasts for years thanks to fine craftsmanship and precious materials. Patrick Mavros’ sterling silver jewelry—which range from pangolin-inspired necklaces and bangles, to delicate, sea-urchin inspired drop earrings—are timeless adornments that age gracefully, explicitly created to become family heirlooms. Kenyan silversmith and jeweler Ami Doshi Shah’s creations however, particularly the Vessel Pendants, are sculptural works of art that boast touches of verdigris, their talismanic energy providing an enduring touch of glamor to whatever they end up being paired with.