Anna Harvey Timeless Style
Looking for longevity? Start with these staples
Ihave an array of miscellaneous purchases in my wardrobe, many hardly worn. But alongside these, hanging together at one end of the rail, are items I wear over and over again, even though they were bought years ago. I go on about refreshing and updating in this column but I also retain old favourites, as most of us do. There’s nothing wrong with wearing something one looks good in, feels comfortable with and is not yet out of shape or too worn.
The first is a navy pea jacket I bought several years ago by Inès de la Fressange for Uniqlo (she still does a capsule collection there each season which is always well worth a look). It is the most flattering shape and made in a good quality wool which, provided it is cleaned regularly, looks almost as good as new. When shopping for a pea jacket or blazer, be sure to get one long enough to cover your rear – far more flattering than one that cuts the buttocks in two.
Then the best pair of summer trousers I ever bought: a pair of cotton chinos from Jil Sander in a great straight-leg fit. The hook on the waistband is rather worn some seven years later, and the turn-ups are frayed, but because the cloth is good, they retain their shape. They were expensive but it is worth spending money on good trousers. I recommend Margaret Howell for those who favour a slightly masculine cut, or Ralph Lauren for narrower shapes.
I have one almost seasonless dress from The Chelsea Design Company which has never let me down. It is a good shape on me (longer sleeves, knee-length and slightly fitted) and made of a beautiful soft crêpe in a shade of pale fuchsia. It can be dressed up with a necklace and evening shoes or simply worn on its own when one needs to make a good impression.
Accessories can last, too, if you look after them. With shoes, these days
I am a flat fan and wear loafers in the day and velvet slippers at home in the evening, but I have one pair of black suede Emma Hope low heels which have seen me through many an evening event. They now finally need replacing but I shall try to find something as similar as possible as they have been so useful. LK Bennett does good low-heeled, smart shoes.
And I have one handbag that I carry everywhere with me; a large, black soft leather bag bought at Burberry many years ago. The handle went after six years of wear but I sewed it back on with a carpet needle and strong button thread and it has had a new life. Anya Hindmarch and Mulberry also make very good day-to-day bags, as does Furla.
These are my basics; old friends I am absolutely comfortable with and know I can rely on. I don’t wear all of them all the time but, just like the best old friends, I know they are always there for me if I need them.