How to Invest in Timeless Fashion

The underlying tenets of my wardrobe are quality over quantity, with a big focus on ensuring I get a good cost-per-wear out of anything new I add to it. I’d like to think that over the years, I’ve shifted (mostly) away from trend-led pieces and more towards timeless designs that will truly stand the test of time.

Wearing Rue Stiic linen top, Mott & Bow skinny jeans, IRO coat (s/o but similar option here), Sam Edelman loafers (also here), Oroton bag, Holly J necklace, Mejuri necklace, Holly J earrings

While I still purchase the odd item from the high street, I’m largely looking at investing more in singular items, that I plan on having for years. I look to contemporary brands like Phillip Lim, Joseph, IRO and Isabel Marant for a modern update on a classic wardrobe staples that feel fresh but are also reflective of my personal style. But the question is, how do you know you’re making a good wardrobe investment, and not a bad one?

Trust your instinct

Personal style is innate, and what one person considers timeless within the walls of their own wardrobe, another might deem a passing fancy. Does the item feel innately you? Does it have a timeless classic appeal that you see yourself wanting to wear for the forseeable future?

Neutral hues

Unless you’re someone who goes bold and bright with their fashion choices, neutral hues are in my opinion, the best way to go when investing in timeless fashion. If you’re spending upwards of $500 on one item, you want to be sure it will not only go with a lot of your wardrobe, but that it’s muted enough to be worn on repeat. White, black or grey are always a safe bet, but I also love neutral colours such as navy, beige or camel, and blush. Unlike a bold pop of colour which might quickly go out of favour depending on the colour trends of the season, a neutral option is a classic for a reason – it doesn’t date.

Is it versatile?

Timeless fashion is by its very nature a classic. In my experience, it’s usually the classic pieces in my wardrobe that are the most versatile too. When I add anything new to my wardrobe – at either end of the price spectrum – I like to think of at least three different ways I could wear it with items I already own. Taking that a step further, I think it’s wise to ramp it up a notch when considering a seriously spendy purchase. So what I do is try and note ten or even twenty different ways that I could wear it; if it’s a truly timeless piece, it shouldn’t be hard to come up with endless ways to style it.

Know what brands work for you

Personal style is exactly that, it’s personal, and there’s no one size fits all when it comes to timeless fashion. Like I’ve identified, I think it’s worth pinpointing which brands work best for your silhouette, reflect your values, but also offer high quality designs in classic styles.

Timeless fashion doesn’t have to mean designer

Quality can be found at every price point, so don’t think that you can only invest in timeless fashion if you’re buying designer. A lot of my timeless, classic staples have come from the high street. The key here is to be selective. Be conscious of what a quality item is; inspect seams, buttons, scrutinise fit and above all, opt for natural fibres where possible. In my experience, they always fare better than their synthetic counterparts, and will be items that you can wear for years. My favourite high street or affordable brands include Everlane for wardrobe basics, Uniqlo for elevated workwear pieces, and Grana for their cashmere and pima cotton styles.

Steer clear of trends

This one is probably a bit of a no brainer, but if you’re after a timeless style that will last years, it goes without saying that you should avoid the trends. Be considerate about what is a fleeting “of the moment” trend – like pearl beaded bags or hair clips – and what is trending but is actually a take on a wardrobe classic. Timeless fashion staples like trench coats, or suiting are a good example of the latter. As always, to really ensure you get your wear out of the piece in the years to come, go for a pared back look that you’ll want to reach for in the years to come.

Avoid impulse buys

For the most part, impulse buys over the years have usually been the ones that have had the least longevity in my wardrobe. When shopping in-store, it can be easy to get swept up in the moment and the sheer excitement of trying something new, despite the reality of that item not quite matching up with our closet’s style story. To help me stay on track with my purchases and buy only what I love, I use the 30 day shopping rule. This helps me to weed out the good fashion purchases from the bad, and it’s ample time to determine whether an item will be worth investing in. Or at least in this case, whether it’s a truly timeless piece.