Sylvie wears a Burberry Trench Coat.
As fashion editor at Who What Wear, I'd like to think I know a thing or two about searching out a great new piece or a timeless classic, but it's only recently that I learnt the trick to piecing together a truly great outfit. Let's face it: We're all guilty of spending valuable time agonising over what to wear in the morning, and no matter how many statement dresses or exciting new pairs of shoes I find, everything has a time and a place, and I invariably end up turning to the same forever pieces to dress up my day-to-day look. A case in point, the "basic".
Abi wears Manolo Blahnik mules.
Calling anything "basic" gives it a bad rap, but rest assured in this case I don't use basic to mean boring; instead, I'm referring to simple, understated, well-thought-out pieces that can be worn time and again, and end up being the hardest-working things in your wardrobe. Often these are the best investments you can make (and well worth spending a little extra money on for their sheer cost per wear), as these core pieces can be building blocks in creating the perfect capsule wardrobe.
Sarah wears a The Frankie Shop blazer.
As a staunch advocate for high-low dressing and someone you'll always find in a high street blazer and a reliable designer bag, I've made the decision to shop in a way that favours buying less but better, and getting my wardrobe into good shape means shaping up its foundation. So I began the quest to find the very best designer pieces you can count on for exceptional quality, timeless design and versatility, eschewing all flash-in-the-pan trends that will fall out of fashion as quickly as they come in.
After hours of research, I've put together a list of the luxury pieces that I think are really worth the investment. Think forever buys that aren't tied to a trending hashtag, just quality wardrobe essentials like a good quality jacket, the perfect pair of jeans or the attention-grabbing handbag that you'll be happy to wear on rotation.
Not only do these pieces seamlessly weave into your current wardrobe, but they've got the outfit-elevating power of any other designer buy, so the next time you're putting on a simple T-shirt and jeans, you can upgrade the look with a key blazer or smart pair of shoes. Wondering what makes the cut for best of the best? Well, on this list you'll find old favourites like The Frankie Shop tailoring, elevated classics from Toteme and luxe offerings like the perfect boots courtesy of The Row. Sound good?
Monikh with a Loewe Puzzle bag.
Keep scrolling for the best designer basics, including simple coats, jeans, blazers, dresses and accessories, to invest in now but wear for years to come. These are pieces that will never go out of style.
SHOP OUR DEFINITIVE EDIT OF THE BEST DESIGNER BASICS:
1. THE BEST DESIGNER BLAZERS
The Frankie Shop's boxy fit set the standard for the oversized tailoring we now know and love.
Checked blazers are such classics.
Grey will go with everything in your wardrobe.
Such a gorgeous fit.
2. THE BEST DESIGNER SHIRTS
Wear oversized with a pair of straight-leg trousers.
You can't beat all white for versatility.
A blue cotton shirt is not only super chic, but the perfect layering piece under knitwear in the chillier months.
Nothing says spring like the addition of a pastel pink shirt.
3. THE BEST DESIGNER JEANS
If you haven't already tried Citizens of Humanity's Ayla jeans, I can promise you won't be disappointed.
Call off the search: I've found the perfect pair of jeans.
Grey denim doesn't get enough credit for just how chic it really is.
Flare and skinny trends may come and go, but the flattering straight-leg is eternal.
4. THE BEST DESIGNER HEELS
Jimmy Choo pumps are a classic style that will never go out of fashion.
These will go with all of your winter maxi dresses.
Perfect for nights out.
Animal-print heels have become a staple in every fashion-lover's wardrobe.
5. THE BEST DESIGNER SKIRTS AND TROUSERS
Leggings are a staple in most of our wardrobes, so it's worth spending a little more to get a brilliant quality pair that lasts. These are completely opaque, without any sporty details so you can dress them up too.
Whether you're wearing a casual t-shirt or a structured blazer, a denim skirt immediately makes your look cooler.
These might just be the ultimate (super comfy) day to night trousers.
I don't know if it's the cut or beautiful belted detail, but I haven't stopped thinking about this skirt since I first saw it.
6. THE BEST DESIGNER DRESSES
A gorgeous dress that can be styled simply with sandals or elevated with mules.
Pull-on-and-go dresses don't come any chicer than Altuzarra's cashmere dress.
Winter is here, and I plan to be wearing this dress on repeat.
Every wardrobe should include a silk dress.
7. THE BEST DESIGNER FLAT SHOES
Loafers are one of the only styles of shoe you can comfortably wear all year round, so with that much pavement time, you're going to want a pair that goes the distance.
Ballet flats are back, but the truth is they never left.
The Row's sandals are set to be a hit for another year.
A brand that knows all about excellent boots.
8. THE BEST DESIGNER HANDBAGS
It's so difficult to choose between the raffia basket, the Flamenco pouch, the Gate crossbody and even the Luna, but our money is on the Puzzle bag for Loewe's best-selling bag of all time.
You can spot The Row from a mile away. The sleek, minimalist designs are a sure sign that the wearer has serious taste.
An elegant tote bag will always be in style.
Need a bag big enough to carry all of your essentials (and then some)? You just found it in this stylish shopper that will take you all the way through winter too.
9. THE BEST DESIGNER OUTERWEAR
If you're looking to invest in a trench coat, Burberry is the iconic brand to buy from.
There's a lot to love about this cool leather bomber.
Max Mara's Manuela coat has been an icon for decades.
The ultimate wear-forever country jacket to make any and all outfits look stylish.
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