The concept of ‘cost-per-wear’ has been justifying purchases for women for decades – particularly when a man of the house stumbles across a credit card statement and/or receipt.
But is an investment purchase actually worth its’ wardrobe weight (and potential Friday/Saturday night in for the foreseeable future)? Three words: yes, yes and yes.
If you’re toying with the idea of a designer piece that’ll see you through the best and worst of times, knowledge is key – so pop that chic thinking hat on and read on for our guide to the who, what and how to wear of investment dressing.
1. The leather biker jacket: Balenciaga
A black, classic biker – it’s akin to a fashion myth. Does the perfect one even really exist? Leather is an arena where quality is key, and Balenciaga’s classic biker is the trifecta of design: buttery soft, the perfect length, and minimal finishings. Trust us, this guy will run alongside the entire gamut of your wardrobe, from casual to cocktail.
Balenciaga Classic leather biker jacket, $3,711 from matchesfashion.com
2. The neutral tote: Prada
Thinking bags? Think Prada. If you’re looking for a number to stand through the ages, you’ve found your perfect match. But be warned – this style comes in a million different colour-ways (don’t say we didn’t warn you when you end up walking out with five).
Prada Saffiano Lux Tote, approx. $2,953.02 from saksfifthavenue.com
3. The nude heel: Christian Louboutin
Louboutin’s Pigalle heel (named after one of his favourite neighborhoods in Paris) is without question the leading lady of pumps. These babies are 120mm of pure fashion bliss: from the patent softly rounded toe to the splash of signature red on the soles, the return on investment here is priceless.
Christian Louboutin Pigalle pumps, $845 call (02) 8355 5282 for stockists
4. The wrap dress: Diane Von Furstenburg
To be fair, this dress is as much of an icon as DVF herself. There’s a reason why it incited essentially a retail riot back in 1972 – this number is one of fashion’s rare universals (it suits everyone – no mean feat, Diane). A true 24/7 style – we bet it’d even look great in bed.
Diane Von Furstenburg printed wrap dress, approx. $527.62 from mytheresa.com, Diane Von Furstenburg New Julian Two mini wrap dress, approx. $355.56 from mytheresa.com
5. The trench coat: Burberry
From 15 to 50, the classic trench coat is lauded as a wardrobe must-have – but it’s all in the details. Burberry essentially owns the trench, and designer Christopher Bailey toys with it season after season in a myriad of colours, textures and finishings – so really, we’re never satisfied with only one…
Burberry London Kensington Long gabardine trench coat, $2,850 and Burberry Showerproof Cotton Blend trench coat, $2,650 from au.burberry.com
6. The luxe purse: Louis Vuitton
If anyone knows how to roll up beauty, a touch of humor, one-off fabrications and lust-ability all in one package, it’s Vuitton. Every season a dance-floor hit makes it’s way to the shop floors (we’re talking party accessories people, not chart toppers), so if you’re willing to endeavor the waiting list, the bag of the season is your prize. Always one to transcend from ‘it-bag’ status, this is a piece to be treasured.
Louis Vuitton Chain Louise bag in exotic leather, $6,750 from au.louisvuitton.com
7. The all-day everyday piece of jewellery: Hermes
If a Birkin is a little lofty for your budget, don’t fret – the ‘Clic’ and ‘Clic Clac’ H bracelets are the perfect entry piece into the Hermes club. Stack them up over your watch for day, or leave it on it’s lonesome for night for maximum impact.
Hermes Clic H bracelet in black, gold plated H clasp, $875, and Clic Clac H bracelet in black, gold plated H clasp, $960 from australia.hermes.com.
8. The little black dress: Dolce & Gabbana
Bada-bing! The Dolce woman is always the expert at ramping up the sex appeal. If you’re in the market for a knockout, curve-hugging black number, call on the Italians – they’re always a sure thing to guarantee you’re turning heads in the room.
Dolce & Gabbana fluted lace dress, $3,950 from net-a-porter.com
