FOREVER CLASSIC: INVESTMENT PIECES WITH STAYING POWER
Pieces with staying power. Whether it is interiors or sartorial choices, there is something comforting about pieces that endure. When it comes to tried and true classics, I look for outstanding quality and timeless appeal. These investment pieces are not susceptible to trends and look great season after season, and will stand the test of time. From a duffle bag for weekends away (my T. Anthony from the early 90s still in rotation), to jewelry you will wear every day, these are the items that are always in style. For a new generation looking for foundational pieces and those who want to buy less but better, consider this your guide.
Image courtesy of Veronica Beard
A go-with everything double breasted blazer is a must. This one by Veronica Beard is a best-seller for a reason.
Image courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Image courtesy of Alice Walk
Throw it in your bag, use it on the plane, wear it at an outdoor wedding— the uses for a cashmere wrap are endless. Alice Walk’s fringed versions come in a rainbow of colors and I want one of each!
Image courtesy of Frame
Frame makes jeans that look polished with no embellishment. I prefer a dark wash.
Image courtesy of J.McLaughlin
Every fall, I get a new leather tote. An everyday bag that has to fit a laptop and be spacious enough to carry daily necessities. It’s like a new backpack for the start of the school year, but for adults. This carry all from J. McLaughlin has leather-covered handles shaped like bamboo and I love that special detail.
Image courtesy of Mansur Gavriel
I’ve used my Anya Hindmarch wallet for years, and it has held up well. If I was to get a new wallet, this monogrammable Mansur Gavriel zip wallet fits the bill.
Image courtesy of Rochelle Behrens
A white button down shirt goes with everything. Finding one that is fits well and is cut well is another story. This Rochelle Behrens is it.
Image courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman
Chloe flats embody low-key quiet luxury and the brand continues to make one every season. I also love Margaux’s leather ballet flats, because they are incredibly comfortable.
Image courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman
Sidney Garber bracelets need no introduction. The design is striking and minimalist. Throw these on and they add just enough glimmer. Understated elegance at its best.
A Cartier Tank Watch has always been the gold standard. My mom has had hers forever, and I have always loved the colored skin and satin bands that give the watch personality. These are floating around on the resale sites, and The RealReal tends to have them from time to time.
Image courtesy of Goop
Signet rings are personal, and when they have your family crest or initials they are wonderful pieces that have meaning.
Image courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman
My Tom Ford tortoise sunglasses are on regular rotation, but the style is discontinued. Oliver Peoples sunglasses are incredible quality and last forever, so these are my back-up. Celine also makes a great wayfarer-ish option.
Image courtesy of Pamela Munson
A gold minaudiere goes with everything and can transition from cocktails to charity events with ease. Pamela Munson has this fun version with an animal print
Image courtesy of Paravel
There is just something about canvas bags. When paired with leather, this simple material has a certain crispness to it that always looks polished. Paravel’s duffel bag has become a new classic. And yes, you can get it monogrammed.
Image courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman
A vide poche is a great piece to own because it can coral smaller items on your nightstand and you can take it with you when you travel to help keep things organized on the go. Royce makes a brightly colored leather version that can be monogrammed, and it makes a wonderful gift.
Image courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman
Good things last forever, and if you had this Maison Pearson hairbrush as a wee-one, then you know what I am talking about. Made of boar bristles, this brush looks pretty on your bathroom vanity and is also really good for your hair.
Image courtesy of Neiman Marcus
Do you have a signature scent? Perhaps Fracas will pique your interest. This divine fragrance is made of white flowers and has set the standard since 1948.
Image courtesy of Westman Atelier
If is something you use it every day, why not make it special? Makeup brushes are no exception. Westman Atelier get their brushes made in Japan and they are strikingly beautiful as well as outstanding quality. They add a dose of chic to your bathroom vanity.
Image courtesy of Rigaud
Rigaud candles are as old school as it gets, and they are true originals. Their green Cypres candle is an essential accessory found in many a Park Avenue apartment. Their heady fragrances are comforting and packaging elegant. As a lover of white flowers, I tend towards their Gardenia candle. Plus, they make a lovely gift with their zebra print package.
Image courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman
If you are a luddite and actually like to write things down, then a well made leather notebook is the way to go. When I was a magazine style editor, one of the highlights was getting a Smythson notebook at the start of each year. I have saved my old notebooks, and it is fun to go back and look at them and reflect on all the things I saw and did during those inspiring, whirlwind years in New York. These have become a signature item the English brand is known for.
Image courtesy of Elizabeth Arden
Keep chapped lips and dry hands at bay with this balm known as Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. It has been around for ages and this tube will last years, and work miracles. I have this in my bag at all times. It adds a subtle sheen to lips.
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