How To Shop For Forever Pieces Like A Pro
Essentials needn’t be predictable. Here, we curate the directional wardrobe fail-safes that will elevate your look for years to come (and there’s not a white tee in sight)
A new year often feels like a sartorial blank page. But, for 2022, instead of planning how we want to dress for the 12 months ahead, we’ve been curating the pieces to build a ‘forever closet’ with. We’re not referring to basics (though perennial pieces can be thrilling, too); we want clothes that excite us each morning, as well as go the distance. So, from Alaïa’s future-heirloom suiting, to Loewe’s investment-worthy handbags, here are nine classics with an edge…
THE SUIT
Slick suiting is one of the first and foremost pieces to consider when building a closet filled with clothes you’ll cherish forever. A timeless black two-piece is a no-brainer, and Alaïa’s sleek number has added style kudos, it being a heritage brand with a buzzy new creative director. “We always talk about Alaïa as a dressmaker but, for me, he’s a tailor above everything,” Pieter Mulier, who presented plenty of sensual suiting in his debut collection, recently told NET-A-PORTER. We particularly love the high, belted waistband on the pants to create shape. Similarly, Ganni’s check, wrap blazer cinches at the waist for a flattering finish. Style it with the matching pants, which feature an elasticated waistband for that super-relaxed feel.
“The beauty of investing in strong wardrobe foundations is the versatility and ease they bring to your everyday life
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THE SILK BLOUSE
The beauty of investing in strong wardrobe foundations is the versatility and ease they bring to your everyday life. So, you’ve chosen the suit and are wondering what to wear with it – cue the silk blouse, which will look divine and lend a softness to sharp suiting. One of the standout designs this season is Khaite’s scarf style. Tie it in a bow for a preppy look, or let it hang loose for a more bohemian finish. Meanwhile Chloé’s cream blouse adds a playful spin with multicolored marble buttons.
THE LEATHER SKIRT
Equal parts pretty and impactful, a leather midi skirt is a true power piece. It’s all about the detail when it comes to Totême’s wrap iteration – from the croc-effect finish and sharp, A-line silhouette to its gold-buckle fastening. Style with flat knee-high boots, semi-sheer tights, and a slouchy knit for a polished yet effortless 9-to-5 look. To add a hit of color, consider Lafayette 148’s claret-hued style in a classic pencil silhouette instead, which looks incredibly chic worn with a silk blouse and slingback mid-heels.
THE NEW PUFFER
Off-duty puffers have been given a rather refined update of late with elegant, quilted finishes. Whether you’re off on a country walk or pounding the city pavements, these new iterations are ideal. Totême’s khaki style comes with dramatic lapels and a long, enveloping silhouette, while Ganni’s high-neck version is sure to keep you cozy in inclement weather conditions. Both options offer substance as well as style and are consciously crafted from recycled materials, making them worthy additions to your everyday uniform.
“A cornerstone of every closet, a perfect-fit pair of jeans is the holy grail of any off-duty look
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THE PERFECT JEANS
A cornerstone of every closet, a perfect-fit pair of jeans is the holy grail of any off-duty look. Luckily for you, we’ve found the formula to dream denim: blue, high-rise and slightly cropped or landing at the ankle. Citizens of Humanity’s ‘Sabine’ jeans are a prime example of the perfect shape. Meanwhile, The Row’s ‘Montero’ jean has a slightly flared, cropped hem that is ideal for showing off your favorite ankle boots. Style them simply with a white tee and blazer for a relaxed yet refined aesthetic.
COZY SWEATERS
Acne Studios’ patchwork knit is truly a thing of beauty – if it looks like you’re wearing multiple knits in one that’s because, essentially, you are. As part of the label’s ‘Repurposed’ collection, it’s been cleverly crafted from excess materials. Similarly, Lafayette 148’s merlot-hued turtleneck is spun from the label’s ‘KindCashmere’ line, which is sourced from small-scale manufacturers that prioritize sustainability. Either will look gorgeous half-tucked into jeans or a midi skirt.
LUG-SOLED BOOTS
Chunky-soled leather boots in understated silhouettes are the ideal all-rounders, meaning they can be styled with everything from dresses to denim and worn on- or off-duty. The Row’s ‘Billie’ boots are pared-back perfection, thanks to their minimalist shape and classic tan color. Bonus: they’ll complement rich autumnal hues and offset pretty florals come springtime, too. For a classic look with a twist, consider 3.1 Phillip Lim’s cream and black ‘Kate’ Chelsea boots, and pair them with jeans and a shearling jacket at the weekend.
“Classic black is always a fail-safe choice, but why not invest in a pop of color that will lift more muted looks in an instant?
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THE SHOULDER BAG
Large enough to stow away all your daily essentials, but also conveniently sized to tuck under your arm, there is plenty that appeals about the shoulder bag. The ’90s silhouettes have endured in popularity for their minimalist and uncomplicated shapes (making them a sensible investment), and classic black is always a fail-safe choice, but why not invest in a pop of color that will lift more muted looks in an instant? Merlot, mustard, olive and chocolate are all charming – and timeless – options. Loewe’s revamped version of its cult ‘Puzzle’ bag is an instant classic; likewise, The Row’s aptly named ‘Everyday’ bag is a cult favorite.
THE SHEARLING JACKET
A shearling jacket adds instant cool to any look. Whether you opt for a retro biker style, such as Halfboy’s black version with its textured leather for a vintage feel, or a classic fuzzy finish, this is a coat that’s as practical and hard-wearing as it is chic. Also check out Bottega Veneta’s yellow version – its joyful color is sure to make you smile even on cold, gray days.