Invest in Yourself!
Posted by Candice Evangeline on 2017 May 30th
"Buy less, choose well." ~Vivienne Westwood.
In a world full of fast fashion and ever changing trends that we "just gotta have!" it can be difficult to decipher between what's worth the extra money and what's not. Here are 10 staple pieces the everyday woman really needs in her wardrobe. These are pieces that defy time and trends; they are meant to last many years and are well worth the extra dollars.
1. A classic Trench Coat.
If you live in a northern climate, you can opt for a good wool version or even a down filled nylon. When buying wool, you can look for the Woolmark logo as a sign of quality. Check for higher percentages of wool and other natural fibers, like duck down and cashmere; something with less than 30% will not keep you nearly as warm as a higher percentage will. Always opt for natural fibers, they hold in more heats and absorb moisture better. Your toasty buns will thank you!
2. A great bag!
I always recommend leather, as it far outlasts its imitation. Regardless of your choice between leather and pleather, always check out the hardware. Weight and sheen is the best teller here, look for heavy hardware, especially when it comes to hooks for removable straps. Lining that is cotton, satin, genuine suede or a soft polyester, especially when logo embossed, is an indicator of a decent quality bag. I tend to look for leather goods made in Canada or Italy. I own a Furla and it has lasted beautifully; four years later it still looks like new and is just as stylish as the day I got it.
3. The perfect pump.
This doesn't need to be the classic pointed toe stiletto, but it certainly can be. Either way, go for something that speaks to you and can be a day to day and/or your evening go to. Black is best, but if you tend to wear more neutrals, opt for a beige, tan, brown or taupe. Again, I recommend leather: it wears better, is more comfortable, and breaths better. Look for leather lining as well for the best breath-ability. Pointed toes are great for leg lengthening and are perfect for X, S and A shapes. Round and square toes look great on those with already long legs, like O, Y and sometimes S or H shapes. Choose a heal height that is comfortable and in a style that speaks to your personality.
4. A well fitted blazer
A well fitted blazer can complete almost any outfit and with such a variety in styles and cuts, anyone can find the best one to suit their body type and personal style. Opt for a neutral, like beige, taupe, grey or black. White is a great secondary option. Adding more than one colour of these key pieces is a great way to continue effortlessly dressing through the seasons. Jackets like these go with anything from dresses to jeans and everything in between.
5. Summer/Winter footwear
After years of collecting multiple pairs of cheap, overly designed, impractical and often uncomfortable shoes, I realized that all that's really needed are a few practical pairs. This includes 1-2 pair of summer shoes and at least one good pair of winter boots.
When it comes to boots, function is most important. Luckily, there are lots of stylish and functional boots to choose from now. Something like a riding boot works well in terms of versatility. This year I opted for a pair of black Pajar fur boots and they were the highlight of my winter! Because the fur was so luxurious looking, they were incredibly versatile. Look for things like a rubber sole, waterproof materials and good insulation. All will depend on your local climate. You may need a rain boot rather than a winter boot.
For summer shoes, go for a comfortable heal height in a neutral colour. I personally prefer wedges because they are more versatile and comfortable. Stilettos and other thin heals are not fun on grass, sand or gravel which can all be pretty common for outdoor summer events. Functional footwear is a closet must!
6. The little black dress
Because this is so versatile, you can invest in a well made dress that can be worn multiple times and changed with accessories, jackets and even the shoes and bag. Avoid cheap fabrics that will pill, like low quality knits and jerseys.
7. A good pair of jeans.
This isn't something that makes it in most renditions of this type of list, but jeans have quickly become a timeless staple and investing in a good pair will help you create many chic casual outfits. My personal favorite are Silver jeans. You can even shop by body type! If you are going to have only one pair, choose the ideal rise and leg for your shape in a medium wash. Avoid anything too trendy like light or stone washes, funky seams or rips and tears. A little bit of a dirtier denim is cool, especially if your palette tends to lean toward neutrals. In the event your wardrobe is on the cooler or more colourful side, you will want a denim in a more true blue or indigo.
8. A Good Bra:
This is especially true if you wear a DD+. It is best to go to a specialty store to get measured. Local boutiques tend to be best for this, avoid main stream lingerie or department stores - they rarely carry above a DD and often mis measure, if they offer a measuring service in the first place. Regardless of your cup size, its always a good idea to go for a fitting. Like clothing, bras fit differently from brand to brand. Boutiques often have years of experience and are the best suited to helping you find the best bra. Most major cities will have a specialty lingerie store - a quick Google search will be your best starting point.
9. Black Pants
A few years ago, I bought a pair of sparkly black dress tights from Tristan and they quickly became my go to evening pant. Years later, they are still my go to pants. As someone who deals with weight fluctuation and lots of chub rub, I can't believe they lasted this long and still fit. I don't have a typical day-to-day, so sparkly black tights may not be your version of a go-to pant, but whatever your version is, find a darker coloured pant, and, like jeans: in the right rise and leg for your shape. Look for details that speak to you, your style and lifestyle, but keep it simple and avoid heavy embelleshment.
10. A Swimsuit
Although this may not be an investment piece by definition, it is a necessary piece if you vacation yearly, or visit a beach or pool in the summer. Even if for just 1 day a year, wearing swimwear that is properly suited and fitted to you is a confidence game changer. These are our two most popular styles and are almost sold out! We are excited to present a size inclusive collection, coming summer 2017 which will be available in size S-3XL. Stay tuned to your inbox for notifications on new arrivals.
It's important to remember to dress the body you have now. Don't wait for "10Lbs from now" to invest in yourself. In the event your weight fluctuates, opt for a slouchy coat and looser open front jacket that will fit within a range of 2 sizes. Also look for jeans with lots of stretch, this will give you some literal wiggle room, without compromising good fit. No one wants saggy bum. When you wear high quality items on a more regular basis, dressing not only becomes easier due to simplification, but you start to feel really confident in what you're stepping out in; even if you've been stepping out in it for several years.
I've always been the type that doesn't save the "good" china for special occasions, because, today, right now, is a special occasion. Nothing else is guaranteed. Don't wait to treat yourself because you deserve it right now.