Fashion,  Inspiration,  Style

5 Tips on Choosing Your Wardrobe Investment Pieces

March 19, 2017 / 20 Comments

As you know if you’re a regular here or on my Youtube channel (or even if you follow my Instagram account), I love a good pieces that work in perfect harmony with your personal style. There are certain items that are really worth your time, money and effort, as they will bring you so much value in the long run. Whether it’s a lush coat, a timeless bag, a comfy and stunning pair of shoes or a piece of statement jewelry, choosing your wardrobe investment pieces carefully will take your style to the next level.

Classic bag.jpg

So how do you know if an item in the store will fall into this category, and not turn out to be an overpriced dud?

Details, details, details!

First of all, a quality piece will be easily recognizable from its details. The hem will be solidly sewn and not have loose threads. Structured items such as blazers and shirts will retain their shape and hug your body in the right places. A printed item will have all the pieces of the pattern matching at the seams, so that the complete image is flowing and uniform. Thin or see through dresses will come with an underneath slip.

Not to mention the fabric! Quality ones should be pleasant to touch, without irritating the sking or making you overheat in them. They should not be overly stretchy or cling to your body. Cotton, cashmere, thin wool, silk, even good viscose are ones to look for.

Fits you like a dream

Secondly, it’s extremely important that the piece you buy compliments your body. This is perhaps the most important aspect when it comes to investing in a timeless garment. Because if it looks good on the rack but doesn’t look good on you, the end result is that you won’t reach for it.

That is why it’s so important to know your body shape and recognize your favorite body parts, the ones that you want to enhance and draw the eye to. Even if that item is a widely toted “wardrobe staple”, you need to make sure it is the staple for you. If it hides your best features and doesn’t leave you smiling when you put it on, leave it in the store.

Tailor your wardrobe

Just as important as fit is the tailoring of a piece. A properly tailored garment will look a thousand times better on you, which is why it’s important to have a good tailor on call for adjustments.

For example, pants need to be cut to the right length, depending on the type. Quick guide: ankle length for skinny pants, max 1 cm off the ground for flares, and just grazing the tip of your shoe for boot-cut or straight pants. Make sure jackets and blazers are comfortable when you move your arms. And test that you can actually close the buttons, even if you won’t regularly do it when you wear them. Sleeves generally need to hit right at the first knucle of your thumb, especially for shirts.

Classics versus trends

Another thing to consider is whether the item is actually a classic or a trend. A camel hued duster coat for example will still be considered chic 10 years from now, while a furry pink coat, as popular as they are at the moment, will probably have a short lived life as a trend.

Some colours, like nudes (beige, camel, navy, grey, charcoal, chocolate) generally guarantee that your item will not be bound to a specific fad or period in time. This makes them more versatile and dependable when it comes to building a wardrobe. Just as some cuts will always be in style- such as a fit& flare dress or a fitted shirt.

classic trenchcoat look.png

Buy from reputable sellers

Finally, when it comes to watches and jewelry, I recommend you buy a few great pieces from a reputable retailer. All precious jewelry should ideally come with a certificate of authenticity and a guarantee. Even costume jewelry should not easily scratch or oxidize.

Whether you go for silver, gold or more colourful pieces is entirely up to you. Just keep in mind to always check the quality of the metal. There is usually a specific code inscribed that shows the percentage of precious material. A few of the pieces that you will never go wrong with are: pearl earrings, diamond studs, statement necklaces, cuff bracelets and a men’s inspired watch.

Classic women's watch worth splurging on.jpg

I really hope this post has been useful for you! If there are any parts of it you’d like me to expand on, or if you have any suggestions on what you’d like me to write about, please let me know in the comments. And if you want to know more about the timeless accessories that you’d benefit from having in your wardrobe, check out my latest Youtube video.

Thanks for reading, have a gorgeous Sunday!

P.S.: If you haven’t by now, make sure you join The Style Club to receive your free personal style printables and get the most stylish updates directly in your Inbox!

 

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