Art of Style

6 New-Season Investment Pieces To Update Your Look

Whatever your style, denim can pull a look together with effortless aplomb

We round up the sleekest trans-seasonal styles guaranteed to refresh your look – and earn a space in your forever closet

Words Colleen RossFashion editor Millie Parry
Fashion

Denim is many things – hardworking, reliable, effortlessly cool – but it’s rarely considered to be the star of the show. That’s set to change for SS25. In a heavily washed denim to achieve the look of genuine vintage, Loewe’s drawstring-style denim jacket will complement similar light washes, but is smart enough to style with a slip dress or tailoring in the evening, too. Meanwhile, in line with its ongoing commitments to responsibly made fashion, Agolde’s ‘Palmer’ jacket is made from recycled denim and comes in a relaxed, cropped shape; while Citizens of Humanity’s ‘Alya’ jeans have oversized pockets inspired by traditional cargo styles. Team yours with a tonal cotton shirt and retro sneakers.

Casually leave your oversized shirt unbuttoned, or tie a sweater around one shoulder, for laid-back, insouciant style

From diaphanous chiffons to crisp cotton-poplins, this season, oversized shirts come in a host of different fabrics (and colors). Look to Stella McCartney for chic styles from our NET SUSTAIN edit, in a mood-boosting blush-pink hue. Elsewhere, you can’t go wrong with stripes, and Matteau’s cotton-poplin style is a timeless choice – leave the cuffs undone and wear half-tucked into jeans for a look that is approved by tastemakers. To ensure optimum versatility, put your shirt to work between seasons by layering it under a wool vest, or with a cashmere knit knotted nonchalantly around the shoulders.

When it comes to trans-seasonal versatility, blazers, leather jackets and polo shirts are all classic investment pieces – whatever your style

The polo is a perennial favorite that you can wear all year long – it’s an ideal layering piece that comes in both knitted and jersey fabrics. A key component of SS25’s ‘new uniform’, it looks effortless paired with denim and can easily be dressed up with streamlined separates. The trick is to look to brands that excel at elevated basics, then opt for a classic silhouette in a super-soft, high-quality yarn. First stop, Bally – the label’s lipstick-red sweater is made from a sumptuous cashmere and silk blend and has a slim fit that’s easy to layer underneath a denim jacket or blazer. Also look to Allude and &Daughter for investment pieces that will pair beautifully with tailoring and loungewear alike.

A lightweight jacket is the ultimate keep-forever, in-between-weather investment piece

While it’s true that tricky trans-seasonal weather often calls for a jacket that can be thrown on over anything, your last-minute layer should look just as good as the rest of your outfit. Not too thin or thick, Loulou de Saison’s ‘Bago’ jacket from our NET SUSTAIN edit comes in chic ivory and will add instant elegance to outfits – balance the cropped shape proportionally with high-rise, wide-leg pants or an A-line midi skirt. Another beautiful piece from our NET SUSTAIN selection, which you’ll still adore wearing in five years’ time, is Tom Ford’s leather jacket, which comes in a classic black shade and has a cool, cropped fit. On warmer days, leave it unzipped over a dress and add the sleekest pair of sunglasses you can find.

The perfect flat shoe does exist. Comfortable, practical and stylish – what’s not to love about fashion’s current obsession with going low? Topping the wish lists of fashion editors and content creators in every major fashion city this season is the classic loafer. The epitome of timeless style, Saint Laurent’s ‘Le Loafer’ is crafted from glossed leather and will add polish to every outfit. Try it with relaxed tailoring or a mini dress and ankle socks. Alternatively, make a statement in Loewe’s sleek white version.

The key to any well-curated closet is to add pieces that really go the extra mile between seasons. Do-it-all dresses are the kind that are light enough to layer with knitwear or an oversized jacket when there’s still a chill in the air, but will easily make an impact on their own, too. Esse Studios’ two-in-one style goes one step further by combining a stretch-knit, cut-out bodice and skirt in one fluid silhouette. Alternatively, look for slightly heavier fabrics that won’t leave you feeling too hot or cold when you’re only planning to add boots or sandals. Maria McManus’s long-sleeved, ribbed knit dress is a total winner.

No trans-seasonal wardrobe is complete without a do-it-all dress for every occasion

The people featured in this story are not associated with NET-A-PORTER and do not endorse it or the products shown