After my recent trip to Paris, I came back with an even deeper appreciation for timeless style. The Parisians have a pared back effortlessness and chic simplicity in the way they dress that is forever classic and cool. I’ll say it again,… a great blazer will take you far!
I pulled together a luxury edit in partnership with Saks ~ breaking down some of my most worn designer purchases over the years and those key pieces that are worth spending a bit more on in my opinion, for quality and craftsmanship, as they’ll last for seasons and seasons to come. Building out your dream capsule of timeless staples.
For me, there are a couple of key items and categories that I’m willing to spend a bit more on for quality, craftsmanship and material:
1. Great denim:
Denim is the base of my wardrobe as a California girl and my uniform when it comes to personal style ~ so I don’t mind spending more because I know I’ll get my wear out of my jeans. I love finding the best washes / hunting down the perfect vintage pair / and more unique cuts or styles.
2. Leather boots:
Beautiful shoes really make the look, and I’m such a fall / winter boot person! I’m also one for practicality and I want boots that are comfortable for walking miles.
3. Jackets and Outerwear:
This “third piece” also truly makes the look ~ I live for fall and winter styling for the coats! Whether it’s a wool coat or great blazer, I try to think about all the ways I’ll wear it and how often I’ll wear it if making a bigger splurge.
The Best Investments In My Closet
And let’s break down some of my most worn / best luxury buys over the years:
I have a tan blazer from Nili Lotan that I’ve owned for 8+ years (similar in navy). It’s the best fit. Nili Lotan is one of those timeless brands that makes classic pieces that aren’t boring. The wash of the denim, silhouettes / button details give that cool touch. It’s also a brand that’s popped back out on our radar this season as everyone became obsessed with this idea of “quiet luxury” because Nili Lotan does it so well. Gorgeous materials and quality without flashy logos.
They’re so buttery soft and I much prefer a soft leather to a shiny glossy leather. The Row just does it the best and these are the most splurge-worthy classic loafers out there. *(But also, this pair is a great save option).
I debated these boots for a few seasons before finally taking the plunge, and they instantly became my most worn boots. (I live in them in the fall / winter). I love the height they give me which is why I find myself grabbing for them the most, but I also love the tougher contrast they give to a look. I’ve found myself styling them a lot more than I honestly thought. W
ith dresses, jeans, and skirts. It’s a thicker sole making them a heavier boot but I’ve also found that this additional padding offers great support if doing a lot of walking. I’ve walked all over New York in mine.
– Bottega bag
Okay so I thought I was bored with my Bottega bag but I pulled it out again this past spring and the size is truly perfect and the leather also (like The Row) only gets better with wear and time as well. The leather becomes even more worn in and as with everything in my mind, only cooler once you’ve broken things in a bit…I love leather with a little wear. My bag is a small size (the ideal everyday / evening handsfree shoulder bag to carry a bit more than the basics ~ my camera, sunglasses, a few kid snacks). It’s the bag I packed for Paris and again for New York this week as it’s a great day-to-night bag.
– Khaite leather jacket
My leather jackets from Khaite are up there as my most treasured pieces hanging in my closet. The holy grail… most beautiful / cool leather jackets in my opinion. Again, as with all great leather, they just wear so well and are so buttery soft it’s all you’ll want to wear. Also, all you need to look impeccable in a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. Currently drooling over this leather jacket this season.
It’s ideal for cinching the waist of a dress or blazer / coat… with so much styling potential. My dad is such a belt guy with an appreciation for leather which is maybe where I got my taste / love for beautiful well made pieces but the belt also truly makes the look.
