The 19 Best Wardrobe Investment Pieces Every Woman Should Own
Fashion trends come and go, but a classic remains in style forever. And for that reason, there are some investment wardrobe pieces that every woman should own. These pieces are classics or even iconic staples, and once you own them, can help you save time and money in the long run.
True investment pieces transcend age, demographic, decade, and the economic climate. Although buying really high-end items is expensive, because they will never go out of style, versatile, high-quality pieces should convert their price tag into pennies-per-wear over time. And since these pieces aren’t trendy, but instead timeless, there is no rush to buy them and you can take your time doing research and shopping for the best deal.
There are no rules for fashion and of course, people’s personal style varies. What one woman may love and consider a wardrobe essential, another woman may never want to wear. But if you are looking for some recommendations on which wardrobe pieces you should be investing in, you’ve come to the right place.
Best Wardrobe Investment Pieces
Pump Heels
Shoes make the outfit, and the classic pump is the foundation of any wardrobe. Although these shoes don’t elicit the same excitement as a trendy heel because they will never fall out of style, they are the shoes you will keep the longest. If you invest in a pair of high-end designer pumps in a comfortable, classic style, you’ll get many years of use out of them, and people will notice.
A Trench Coat
The trench coat was originally designed to protect British Army officers from rainstorms before the start of the First World War. However, over time they have become one of the most classic wardrobe staples. In particular, the Burberry Trench coat is worth investing in. This is a piece that has truly been able to stand the test of time and makes its appearance every year. It makes a great transition piece for fall and gives off an air of effortless sophistication, no matter your personal style.
Leather Belt
A belt is an accessory that often doesn’t have a lot of thought put into it. Unless you’re a belt person and love making them a statement piece. For everyone else, owning at least two nice quality belts is enough. Being able to match your belt to your shoes or bag may seem like a small insignificant thing, but it’s the small details that really pull an outfit together.
A Black Blazer
A tailored, quality-made black blazer will never go out of style and is one of the classic pieces that everyone should have in their closet. There really isn’t any fashion piece that is more versatile. When worn casually with a white t-shirt and jeans, you’ll look put together. Or look totally chic when worn over a slip dress during an evening out. They are also work-appropriate, making them an article of clothing that you will wear over and over again. It’s worth the time and money to find one that you can keep wearing for years.
A Crossbody Purse
A crossbody bag is the best option for a practical and functional day bag. They are usually big enough to hold more than your keys and lip gloss and also allow you to free up your hands. Because the weight is distributed across both sides of the body, a crossbody bag is very comfortable when worn for long periods of time. This also makes them a great bag to use while traveling, where you’re more likely to spend a lot of time walking and exploring new cities.
Classic Jewelry Pieces
Cheap versions of everyday jewelry will eventually end up turning green in the shower, be tossed out, and then replaced. Instead of spending money on these pieces that you don’t really care for, invest a little more in a few pieces that you’ll be able to wear for years. There are now so many jewelry startups, that cut out the cost of middlemen, making it so much more affordable to buy quality jewelry. A few of my favorite places to shop for everyday jewelry are:
- Mejuri
- Bloomingdales (they have great sales throughout the year on their gold jewelry, sometimes 50-75% off)
Leather Jacket
A leather jacket goes with everything and will last forever. If you invest in a good quality jacket that you love, you can wear it for decades without ever needing to buy a new one. Leather is one material that usually gets better with time. And a leather jacket will slowly stretch and form to your body for the perfect fit.
A Work Tote
Because tote bags are large but lightweight, they are great for carrying all of your daily essentials around in a neat organized manner. From home to work, while traveling, or even in place of a diaper bag, you’ll look good and be comfortable while carrying it. This is a bag that you really only need one of. So consider the rest of your wardrobe palette and choose a bag that will match the majority of your outfits. And because of how much you’ll use this bag, investing in a beautiful high-quality tote bag is totally worth it.
Tailored Trousers
A pair of pleated tailored trousers will always look good. These pants are more elevated than jeans, even when worn with a pair of sneakers. A pair in a medium-weight fabric, in either a straight or wide-leg cut, will look good and last you for years. Taking the to the tailor to have them hemmed to the perfect length and fit will ensure you always look put together. Especially if you work in the corporate world.
A Pair Of Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an item that you will probably wear more than anything else. And like every other item in the fashion industry, new trends are coming out every season. But the reality is because the shape of your face remains the same, a particular style frame will always be the most flattering. Neutral-colored frames like black and tortoiseshell are classy and pair well with everything. Or choose a metal frame in the same tone that matches the color of your jewelry and other accessories.
A Little Black Dress
The little black dress is iconic enough to have its own acronym. The LBD or the equivalent to match your personal style is a wardrobe essential every woman should have. This is the dress that you can pull out and wear to meetings, cocktail parties, formal events, and date nights. Having one in your closet means that you will always have something appropriate to wear for the occasion.
A Flap Bag
Flap bags, especially Chanel Flap Bags, are one of the all-time classic investment pieces. Since Coco Chanel created the first Flap Bag in 1955, they have remained on the shoulders of fashionable women ever since. These bags don’t come cheap, even when bought preowned. They are one of the few bags that not only hold their value but, if taken care of, will actually increase in value. Whether you’re just beginning to build your designer handbag collection, or plan to only ever buy one designer bag, choose a neutral color that will match everything.
Black Ankle Boots
Just like white sneakers, the black ankle boot has stood the test of time, and it’s safe to say they’re here to stay. That’s because the classic black ankle boot pairs well with jeans, dresses, skirts, and anything else you can think of. A well-made, comfortable pair of boots can end up being the most worn item in your closet. And if taken care of properly will last you a lifetime. Especially if you’re willing to re-sole them every few years.
A Timepiece
There’s something to be said about the feeling of value and confidence that wearing a watch can create. This is a great luxury item that adds an elegant, eye-catching element to any outfit, whether that be super casual or elegant. This accessory also makes the wearer appear to be someone that values time and is reliable. These are the little things that people subconsciously use to make good first impressions. And in instances like a job interview or business meeting, can be very useful.
A Versatile Coat
A versatile coat is one that looks nice for everyday wear that can go with just about any outfit. This coat isn’t as casual as a puffer jacket, and you should be able to wear it for work, date night, or even more formal events and still look appropriate. Neutral-colored coats, made from wool and in classic cuts, will become a mainstay in your closet that can last a lifetime.
White Button Down
A crisp white button-down shirt will forever be the gold standard when it comes to building out a classic wardrobe. It’s usually not as easy as one may think it should be to find the perfect shirt. But once you find the right cut in premium fabric, you’ll be able to keep this piece in your wardrobe for years. Whether paired with trousers or denim jeans, a white button-down will always be a timeless wardrobe essential.
A Winter Coat
I’ve always considered a good winter coat to be a good investment. This is especially true if you live in cold climate areas. For many months out of the year, this is one item that you will be wearing almost daily, and it’s what people will see you in more than anything else. More importantly, you need it to keep you warm and dry, and good materials and construction come at a cost. These aren’t the type of purchases that people make yearly. A good quality parka that is worn for many months of the year should last a minimum of five years, if not much longer. And a good wool coat can last a lifetime.
A Clutch Purse
More often than not, clutches are thought of as evening bags. These small bags add an aura of sophistication and elegance and are reserved for special occasions and social events. Even though they may not be an item you use in your day-to-day life, they certainly can be. These low-maintenance, high-impact bags, like the ones from Bottega Veneta, are instantly recognizable and, depending on the size, can hold more stuff than you’d think. And a lot of the bags from Saint Laurent have a detachable chain, so it’s like two bags for the price of one. A clutch will always be a stylish choice when going out for drinks, lunch with friends, or paired with workwear outfits.
A Piece Of Statement Jewelry
Statement jewelry is very personal to an individual’s style and to the meaning that they put into the word. It can be a piece of expensive jewelry that you only wear on special occasions or a bold piece of jewelry that draws a lot of attention. An expensive pair of earrings or extravagant ring can become a family heirloom that is one day passed on to your children. And a unique necklace that may not hold a lot of monetary value can instead be a valuable form of self-expression. In either case, the jewelry becomes a worthy investment.
Luxury Items Every Woman Should Own
Unless you’re very wealthy, building a wardrobe of luxury items is something that will take a long time. In my opinion these are the items every woman should own. Maybe something to keep in mind while shopping for your own wardrobe pieces.
- A Signature Perfume- I have two perfumes that I absolutely love. I alternate them depending on my mood or wear them together. Bibliotheque Eau de Parfum and Rose 31 Eau de Parfum
- An Everyday Bag- A Chanel Bag in Quilted Caviar is less likely to be scratched when used every day. The Mini Cassandra Leather Satchel from Saint Laurent is also a beautiful classic bag that is literally a fraction of the price. And if you prefer a larger tote bag, then the Neverfull from Louis Vuitton is a great option. I’ve had mine for years, and have used it as my diaper bag, work bag, and travel carry on.
- Black Pumps- The shoes I reach for more than any others over the years are undoubtedly my Jimmy Choo Pumps. They’re a classic shoe that is work appropriate, in a height that is comfortable to wear all day. They can also be worn casually with jeans or dressed up for a nice occasion.
I want to know what you think! Did I leave anything off of this list that you think should be added? And what wardrobe investment pieces are the most important to you? Let me know in the comments below. And if you found this post helpful you might also enjoy reading the posts linked below.
Xx Monti
