Avalon Afriyie
Looking classic has always been appealing but never before has timeless style been so covetable. We've motored through the age of quiet luxury and yet, even as we find ourselves at a time of reset, its hold on fashion remains present. I know that the only thing my friends are currently interested in is making their outfits look more polished and dressing themselves in a trend-proof manner. As such, they've recently been asking me how best to begin investing in luxury pieces.
The mere thought of adding luxury touches to your wardrobe is a privilege, let alone following through on the action, so this isn't advice I dish out lightly. A luxury purchase—neigh, any purchase—should be made with the utmost consideration and cash only exchanged when you've come to the conclusion that, yes, you will get the wear of it for years to come. I've given the items I'd suggest adding to a luxury capsule wardrobe some serious contemplation. Below are my recommendations.
From cashmere knits you can snap up on the high street for that premium touch to iconic designer pieces that I could only dream of owning myself, scroll on to see the 13 items that, together, make for a glorious, anti-trend luxury capsule wardrobe.
Your Luxury Capsule Wardrobe Starter Kit
1. A Trench Coat
Style Notes: When it comes to spring/summer outerwear, a trench coat will not only keep you arm enough on chillier mornings, but they also look expensive no matter the price point you opt for.
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The fluid silhouette is undeniably elevated.
A timeless black trench will always have a space in any capsule wardrobe.
A Who What Wear UK editor favourite.
2. Sleek Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: When it comes to finishing your outfits, a simple handbag will always stand you in good stead. Keep adornments to a minimum to ensure their versatility.
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The tan smooth and fresh white are also worth considering.
This Neous design may be contemporary, but the shape, colour and fabric is enduring.
I've been seeing Savette bags everywhere lately.
3. Classic Timepiece
Style Notes: A high-end watch isn't a purchase one makes every day but, if you are in the position to invest in one, then rest assured it will elevate your outfits for a lifetime.
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Cartier's watches are understated and destined to become a treasured heirloom.
So timeless.
Simply stunning.
4. Well-Cut Jeans
Style Notes: A key way of looking put together is having great-fitting clothes. Whether to choose to splash on labels or not, consider tailoring or at least trying on as many size options as possible to find the perfect option for you. Apply this logic to everything—from dresses to jeans—and your outfits will look more luxury by default.
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This blue wash is finally back in stock.
So many fashion insiders turn to Citizens of Humanity for excellent denim.
A high-street jean that looks designer.
5. A Lightweight Cashmere Knit
Style Notes: If there's one word I always associate with luxury, it's "cashmere". And right now is the ideal time to invest in some, as the high-street is full of chic cashmere knits.
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As ever, The Row has perfected the boxy silhouette.
It's a well-known fact that COS does some of the best cashmere on the high street.
Great for throwing over your shoulders come spring.
6. Silk Shirting
Style Notes: Silk is one of the most luxurious fabrics on the market, and, if you ask me, the easiest way to integrate it into your wardrobe is by way of a versatile shirt.
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Bring a lustrous element to your outfits.
The scarf-detail celebrates the fluidity of this shirt.
This deep brown shade looks so expensive.
7. A Luxury Wallet
Style Notes: If you live for fashion then chances are you already own a designer wallet. Where logo-adorned bags can sometimes feel a touch in your face, there's something about obviously designer card holders and pouches that screams luxury (in a good way).
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Refined simplicity.
Choose from an array of colours.
There are so many great pre-love options as well.
8. A Simple Blazer
Style Notes: Layered over a basic tee or one of the silk shirts above, a loosely tailored blazer will add instant polish to any look, thus earning its place in any luxury capsule wardrobe.
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Perfect for spring.
Wear with denim, tailoring, over dresses and plenty more.
Arket's tailoring is adored by editors and fashion insiders alike.
9. Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: If you want to make your outfits look more expensive, a pair of tailored trousers will do just that. Proof that "luxury" and spending a lot don't always have to correlate with one another.
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I'm a big fan of the flare-leg silhouette.
A year-round staple.
Bring a smart edge to the everyday with these refined grey trousers.
10. Elegant Heels
Style Notes: When it comes to shoes, heels can have the power to make your ensembles look more high-end but only if you choose the right pair. In my opinion, you can't go wrong with slingbacks at any budget.
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This muted shade will seamlessly blend with everything.
How chic are these?
Slingbacks feel refined at any price point.
11. Suede Carry-Alls
Style Notes: Another fabrication that always looks luxe? Suede. And right now, suede tote bags are a hot-ticket item amongst the style set, with The Row's Margaux style proving one of the most covetable. I'm also taken with Métier's bag in warm caramel.
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Woven perfection.
A versatile size for all occasions.
I still can't believe this is from the high-street.
12. A Black Dress
Style Notes: I know it might sound like a cliché but, for its ability to adapt to any style situation and, let's face it, its eternal appeal, if you're going to invest in any dress at a luxury price point, it's got to be the little black dress.
Shop the Staple:
Just add colourful accessories.
Note the elegant skirt and fashion-forward trim detailing.
This went straight into my basket
13. Polished Loafers
Style Notes: Of all the flat shoes, I think loafers loan themselves best to the luxury aesthetic. Look for styles with a point of difference, be it a designer logo or elegant gold metal hardware.
Shop the Staple:
When it comes to iconic, Prada knows how to do it.
These are constantly selling out, so act fast.
A pair to treasure forever.
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