Everyone has their wardrobe favourites. Those items that you would never dream of throwing out with the change of a season, or the pieces that you longed for having in your collection so badly, because you just knew that they would undoubtedly “go with everything” and be “wearable for years”!
I am no exception to this rule. For me, my wardrobe staples tend to be the pieces that are likely to cost that bit more or come with a designer label. I’ve been fortunate enough to work for some of my favourite brands and retailers, which definitely encouraged my need to make significant purchases, or as I justify them, lifetime investments – some people buy property, I buy handbags. No judgement please!
I’ve selected my top five pieces, available from both designer brands and the high-street, that in my opinion, make for the perfect wardrobe staples, which will hopefully inspire you on your next investment adventure, ‘treat yourself’ trip, or even make it onto that special birthday wish-list.
The Classic Trench Coat
Is there any other piece of outerwear quite so classic? Probably not. Year upon year, trench coats are marched up and down runways around the globe, albeit with new design features, patterns and colourways, yet the classic silhouette and power elegance that the trench coat emanates, always remains.
For me, I dreamt of buying myself a Burberry trench coat with my first pay from my “first real job” after University. Granted I could have selected a more affordable retailer, but I’ve always been more of an optimist than a realist… Little did I know when setting this goal for my future self, that said first pay would in fact be coming from Burberry to go towards Burberry! So, things were made a little more achievable thanks to a little bonus of discount. So the goal was achieved, and the coat was mine.
Thanks to their versatility, and the utter abundance of designs readily available for us to purchase, a good trench coat will be able to serve you year-round… but, if you’re anything like me and hate feeling cold (even if it is for fashion’s sake) then invest in a couple of styles if you can. I have a Classic Burberry Trench in their iconic gabardine fabric, but I also have a cashmere version too, for those extra chilly days. They were investments, remember?!
A signature scarf
If you’re looking for an item that’s practical and stylish, without falling victim to a particular trend or season, then I’d always head towards a scarf. Whether you like big branded logo designs or statement checks, simple solid colours or pretty patterns, you will definitely find something to suit your style, and price point, in today’s market.
My personal collection ranges from cosy cashmere scarves, that keep me warm during the Autumn and Winter months, to feminine silks and gauzes, that can dress up an outfit throughout any point of the year. Not to mention a wrap-around scarf or stole that makes for the perfect travel companion – I never board a plane without one to snuggle up in.
Bag it up, baby
Anyone that knows me well, knows my love for handbags; tote bags, clutch bags, holdalls, cross body bags, mini bags, you name it, I’ve either got one in my wardrobe or on my wish-list. Come to think of it, back-packs are a funny one for me... don't get me wrong, I wasn't a satchel to school kind of girl, but since roaming those corridors, I don't think I've ever used a backpack!
For my 21st birthday, my parents bought me a beautiful black Mulberry Lily handbag, my first designer bag and the beginning of my collection. Now, I do my best to save up and treat myself to a new one as often as I can. I don’t have a massive amount of disposable income, so I tend not to buy fade designs, instead I opt for classic shapes and colours – which would definitely be my number one tip, if you’re looking to treat yourself to a bag that well sit perfectly within your wardrobe for years to come.
Simply, a sweater
Knitwear is having a real moment right now, and that is something that I am entirely OK with! My wardrobe literally consists of about 15 beige knits and 10 black ones, with a sporadic scattering of coloured V necks and Round necks here and there. They’re just so easy to wear and style!
In my opinion, investing in good knitwear is worth every penny, and although you may have to look at the designer end of the market for something that will truly stand the test of time, premium high-street stores are fully embracing quality fibres and designs. For me, you can’t beat a cashmere round neck, they’re part of my daily uniform. With jeans and boots or a midi skirt and trainers, you can look super stylish whilst remaining warm and comfortable throughout the day or into the evening.
Black Boots
Whatever your style, a pair of staple black boots are an absolute must in your wardrobe! Personally, I like to wear a heel whenever I can, so my go to style would be a pointed or square toed, traditionally ankle boot, but I’ll occasionally dabble in knee high boots, with roughly a 3-inch heel. That being said, I do still have a pair or two of Chelsea boots filling spaces on my shoe shelves for those days when heels just aren’t an option.
Like with each of the items I’ve listed above, a good pair of black boots can last you a lifetime and will never go out of fashion. The style of boot you should buy? Well that’s a personal preference. Some people prefer an under the knee to an over the knee, a cowboy boot to a sock boot, a rounded toe to a pointed toe… the options are endless! Ultimately though, you have to find the style that works for you (maybe buy two pairs if you really like them) and style them in the way that’s right for you and your lifestyle! The main note I would make to you (and my future self) however is, if you can’t walk in them when you try them on originally, don’t buy them. Trust me, you’ll never wear them, no matter how many times you tell yourself otherwise.
What items make up your wardrobe staples that you either already own and love, or hope to own one day?
Let me know in the comments below.
Amber x
