While we love to give you the latest on affordable finds, as fashion editors we also believe in investing in pieces that have more long-lasting quality. While they may come with a higher price tag, they become items we cherish for years and stay in shape wear after wear. There’s plenty of brands on the market, but we’ve tried a lot and have narrowed our favorites down to 11 high-quality ones that we think are going to have a spot in our wardrobe for years to come.
Below, see our answers on the brands we think are worth investing in for more top-quality pieces. From Agolde to Proenza Schouler, there’s a whole lot of fashion moments you don’t want to miss. If you’re looking to make an investment purchase anytime soon, the list below is one to take notes from.
There’s a reason every fashion editor I know is a fan of Agolde. It just doesn’t get any better than their jeans that are somehow both of the moment and timeless. Their relaxed ’90s Mid-Rise and more tailored Pinch Waist jeans are two of my most worn pairs and I’m certain I’ll have both (and inevitably more from the brand) in my closet for years to come.
For being an affordable brand, the shoes from Vagabond hold up really well. I’ve had several boots and sandals from them for years now and they’re still the pairs I reach for on repeat. Considering I’ve worn one of their ankle boots for years in L.A. and now NYC, I think it goes without saying that they’re super comfortable, too. Yep, I stan.
Any one of my fellow editors can attest to the fact that I’m obsessed with Staud. What I love about this brand is that every single collection leaves my jaw on the floor. I have a few Staud dresses, bags, and sweaters that I’ve been able to keep on rotation for the past few years, and unlike other brands, the pieces last the test of time. Trust me when I say, Staud can take all your money cause it’s worth it every time.
Totême is one of the few brands that I’ll consistently splurge on. Pretty much everything they make is a forever piece, so I think it’s worth if you want to invest in something special. I particularly love their coats and accessories, and I can honestly say that if the only clothing brand I could shop from for the rest of my days was Totême, I’d be okay with that.
Fine jewelry that’s cool and modern and doesn’t cost a million dollars is one of my favorite things to come out of the past decade. The epitome of this is Kinn. Everything is 14k gold, and its designs are unique and trend-forward without being too trendy. It’s also one of the few jewelry brands I can actually say that I’d wear every single piece from.
I’ve never regretted a single Proenza Schouler purchase. Whether I splurge on a full-price item or score something on sale, their dresses, outerwear, shoes (and everything else) always hold up to endless wears and somehow strike the perfect balance of feeling forward and classic—no matter how much time passes.
I own a couple of blazers from Veronica Beard and will forever cherish them. They fit so well and I think they look so sharp without trying. I really think they’re the kind of pieces that will last me for many, many years. She also makes a mean pair of wide-leg jeans.
I’m fully obsessed with Maje and particularly the brand’s cardigans. They’re as polished as a jacket but as comfortable as a sweater—the perfect combo. I always wear them with jeans and they make my outfit so much chicer.
Mackage is a go-to for me if I’m looking to invest in quality outerwear that will last for seasons and seasons. I wear the classic moto jacket all the time and it has a strong cost per wear.
I promise I’m not biased when I say our collection, because it is really that good. We use the same factories as some of your favorite luxury brands, so the items have the high quality you’re looking for. Plus, the designs are inspired by our very own editors, so what’s not to love?
You may be seeing plenty of Aritzia purchases on your social media feeds but I have to admit, the hype is very real. My favorites have to be their leather pants and tailored pieces.