HOW TO MAKE A WISE FASHION INVESTMENT
IF you’re going to splash some cash on an investment buy, you want to make sure it’s going to have longevity in your wardrobe, not just in terms of quality but style-wise as well.
“I believe in considered shopping, investing carefully in fewer, better pieces that I adore,” says Jo Bennett, head of womenswear buying at John Lewis. “Women want to invest in products that are good quality, aesthetically beautiful and offer value for money, that they will wear and cherish.”
So how can you sort the fast-fashion from the wear-forever pieces, aside from looking at the price tag?
“Make sure that your investment pieces make you feel good,” is Jo’s number one rule. “Each item should make you feel great and be versatile – matching with four or five different looks from your current wardrobe. This way, you’ll want to wear them over and over again.”
Here, Jo lists staples that are well worth investing in and reveals what to look for when shopping for them.
JEANS
“JEANS are the perfect foundation for an outfit – a quality pair can make all the difference,” Jo says. “I would recommend choosing a pair of black fitted jeans as they’re versatile and can work as part of both casual and formal outfits.
“I wear And/Or’s Silverlake straight style.”
JEWELLERY
“BEAUTIFUL jewellery can transform any outfit,” says Jo, who favours intricately designed sterling silver pieces. “These styles compliment clothing and offer elegance from day to night.”
DRESS
A VERSATILE dress is a must for Jo, who says the pieces in John Lewis’s Modern Rarity collaboration with up-andcoming designer Eudon Choi offer: “The perfect wardrobe update. They are elegant and timeless and perfect to dress up or down depending on the occasion.”
CASHMERE SWEATER
WHEN it comes to cashmere, you can play around with playful colours and shapes, says Jo: “A statement cashmere sweater in an extravagant silhouette is great as a day-time piece and also fantastic when travelling.”
COAT
IT’S all about the fabric if you’re looking for a coat that’s built to last. Jo recommends cashmere or wool for warmth and longevity: “A great cut will flatter your shape and the beautifully rich fabric will keep you warm.”
SHOES
“A GREAT pair of shoes is a wardrobe staple – just think about the variety of occasions you will wear them for,” Jo advises.
“Comfort is key for an investment pair of heels,” she warns, “so consider heel height and the lining of your chosen pair of heels. You want to be excited about wearing your shoes, not worrying about aching feet the next day!”