When it comes to our wardrobes, there tend to be two types of clothes: the trendy current pieces from fast-fashion retailers and the classics—those timeless pieces that cost a pretty penny, are most likely designer, and will never go out of style. These classic designer brands serve up the foundation pieces to your closet (think a Saint Laurent leather jacket, Gucci loafers, and a Chloé bag) that combine high-quality design, functionality, efficiency and always feel of the moment. Splurge a little now but save a lot later with these classic designer brands that survive the fast-fashion cycle and never go out of style.
Burberry
Burberry
The Kensington Cotton-Garbardine Trench Coat
The iconic Burberry trench will never go out of style.Available in UK sizes 4 to 18.
Gucci
Gucci
Jordaan Horsebit-Detailed Leather Loafers
Queen Elizabeth II wore Gucci loafers long before they became cool. Twenty years on, they've lasted the test of time, with the fashion crowd wearing backless and fur-lined iterations as well as the brand's enduring classic style.Available in Italian sizes 24 to 42.
Gucci
GG Marmont Small Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag
Gucci's quilted leather bag has become iconic thanks to its elegant timelessness and versatility.
Valentino
Valentino
Garavani The Rockstud Patent-Leather Pumps
Valentino's Rockstud pumps and sandals have achieved cult status, with fashion influencers donning them year after year.Available in Italian sizes 35 to 41.5.
Diane von Furstenberg
Diane von Furstenberg
Flutter Floral-Print Silk-Jersey Wrap Dress
Since Diane von Furstenberg launched the wrap dress in the '70s, its success has continued through the decades. Today, her flattering silhouette still feels fresh and of the moment.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
Prada
Prada
Galleria Medium Textured-Leather Tote
Channel your inner Olivia Pope and opt for a timeless Prada handbag.
Ray-Ban
Ray-Ban
Aviator Gold-Tone Sunglasses
Trendy sunglasses come and go, but Ray-Ban aviators remain forever chic.
Isabel Marant
Isabel Marant
Dyna Suede Ankle Boots
These versatile boots have become an enduring staple in our wardrobes. Perfect for all seasons.Available in French sizes 35 to 41.
Dolce & Gabbana
Dolce & Gabbana
Floral-Print Crepe Midi Dress
Dolce & Gabbana has become famous for its flattering floral and lace silhouettes, fitting for every occasion now and in the years to come.Available in Italian sizes 36 to 50.
Dolce & Gabbana
Corded Lace Midi Dress
Available in Italian sizes 38 to 48.
Fendi
Fendi
Kan I Small Flocked Leather Shoulder Bag
The iconic "F" icon stands the test of time.
Saint Laurent
Saint Laurent
Perfecto Leather Biker Jacket
A black leather jacket adds enduring edge to every ensemble. Saint Laurent's is made from butter-soft Italian leather and will last a lifetime.Available in French sizes 34 to 44.
Saint Laurent
Marino Striped Cashmere Sweater
Perfect for all seasons, the Breton stripe is an essential in every fashionable wardrobe.Available in sizes XS to XL.
Saint Laurent
Satin-Trimmed Grain de Poudre Wool Tuxedo Blazer
The Yves Saint Lauren Le Smoking suit was revolutionary at its inception, and women today still love to wear the empowering tuxedo. It's the epitome of nonchalant elegance.Available in French sizes 34 to 44.
Saint Laurent
Sac de Jour Nano Leather Tote
The perfect work handbag, if we do say so ourselves, the Sac de Jour will last forever.
From '90s celebs to modern-day fashion influencers, Levi's have had their heightened moments of stardom, but they've never truly gone out of style.Available in sizes 24 to 30.
Chloé
Chloé
Drew Mini Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag
Chloé's most wanted handbags are a fashion favorite and here to stay.
Chloé
Faye Medium Leather and Suede Shoulder Bag
Givenchy
Givenchy
Antigona Small Leather Tote
If it's good enough for the likes of Olivia Palermo, Kate Moss, and Rosie Huntington Whitely, it's good enough for us. This has true staying power.
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.