15 investment style buys for 2013
The classic trench coat
A Burberry-style trench is a wardrobe staple, especially for those who have to brave the changeable British weather. Neutral colours are a wise choice for any investment piece, making a beige trench coat a tried-and-trusted classic to see you through the seasons.
Buy it now: Double-breasted trench by L.K.Bennet, £245 from John Lewis
Stylish spring jumper
Nautical styling is a spring/summer favourite and nothing says seaside chic like a classic Breton jumper - and this one comes with a cute red bow for added style points. Wear with navy cigarette pants and red heels for an off-duty look that’s fresh and feminine.
Buy it now: Lainey jumper, £59.95 from Joules
A chic LBD
Every woman needs a chic LBD to fall back on. Choose a classic shift style and you can dress it up or down as the occasion demands. This Joseph wool dress has a relaxed, flattering fit while being timeless enough to make it an intelligent investment piece.
Buy it now: Joseph black Perry sleeveless Interlock dress, £295, My Wardrobe
Equestrian boots
The heritage look is having a ‘moment’ but with quality and longevity as its watchwords, it is one trend that never goes away. Invest in some traditional equestrian styling - in the form of these aptly named Giddy-Up riding boots – and gain instant country style credentials.
Buy it now: Giddy-Up boots, £295, Russell and Bromley
Must-have jeans
Invest in a pair of quality jeans and you’ll never look back. Finding the right cut and style can take a while, so be prepared to invest time as well as cash. The classic straight-leg cut of J Brand's cigarette jeans (a favourite of The Duchess of Cambridge) is a good place to start your search.
Buy it now: J brand Ignite, £230, My Wardrobe
Summery white blazer
A white blazer is a must for every woman’s summer wardrobe. Team it with trousers or a fitted dress for work, or sling it over your favourite jeans and tee at the weekend. Chose a timelessly elegant style and it will serve you well for special or formal occasions too.
Buy it now: Invitation Bellini Jacket, £199, Hobbs
Long-lasting leather bag
Well-crafted basics form the foundation of any stylish wardrobe and that goes for accessories as well as clothing. Spend extra on a quality vintage-style leather satchel and it will last and last - and will only get more covetable with age.
Buy it now: Vintage revival satchel, £159.99, Fossil
Crisp white shirt
A fresh white shirt is a wardrobe essential that should last you years. Wear it with dark blue jeans and a jaunty scarf for a relaxed weekend look or team with tailored trousers for work. This one comes with subtle lace detailing as added interest.
Buy it now: Planet shirt, £69, House of Fraser
Nude heels
When choosing investment pieces, think about what you’ll get the most wear out of. Black, white, navy and nude are hard working shades that will complement most colours in your wardrobe. Make sure they’re comfortable, and a nude pair of heels should pay for themselves many times over.
Buy it now: Amelia suede nude platform, £120, Kurt Geiger
Suit up in style
Don’t let interviews or high-profile work meetings catch you out. Choose a fuss-free style and you can make a smart jacket work for formal occasions (team with slim fit black trousers) - and get wear out of it at the weekend over your favourite skinny jeans.
Buy it now: Elliot crepe jacket, £155, Whistles
Leather skirt
Leather is one of the best-wearing materials and can often get better with age. In addition to a must-have leather jacket, think about investing in a leather skirt. Team with a sheer blouse and heels or dress it down with a sloppy jumper a la Alexa Chung.
Buy it now: Sens leather skirt, £188, All Saints
Plush evening jacket
A sumptuous evening jacket will add instant glamour to any outfit. Think beyond trends and opt for a tailored cut that suits your body shape. The beautiful cut and quality of this velvet jacket elevates it to investment piece – rather than just another military/peplum style for the season.
Buy it now: Velvet military jacket, £190, Karen Millen
Cashmere jumper
A cashmere jumper is something every woman should own. Super soft, it will make you feel instantly more feminine and luxurious. Spend your cash on machine washable cashmere and you’ll wear it even more often.
Buy it now: Pink cashmere jumper, £50, Warehouse
Polkadot perfection
It’s generally best to steer clear of statement prints and colour combinations when choosing investment pieces but the polka-dot dress is an exception to the rule. Timelessly elegant, polka dots are the perfect office-wear staple – or glam it up with red heels and beads.
Buy it now: Precis petite polka dot dress, £99, John Lewis
Leather jacket
Leather never goes out of fashion and can even get better with age. When choosing your ultimate rock chic companion, look for clean lines and simple detailing. Steer clear of stud and fringe embellishments and it should see you through a life time of changing trends.
Buy it now: Quilted leather jacket, £299, Jaeger
Next Up: Key fashion trends for 2013
From power dressing to pared-down sportswear, clashing prints to classic monochrome, follow our 2013 style guide and find out what’s in store
See also:
