Investment pieces can do a lot of the “heavy lifting” to add personality and visual interest to your outfits. You don’t have to pile on; a few well-chosen pieces are all you need.
Here are some tips on how to accessorize for effortless style, and some of my go-to investment pieces that will elevate your wardrobe.
1. A Black Blazer
Is there any piece more versatile than a black blazer? I honestly don’t think so.
A well-made, tailored blazer is one of those classic items that everyone should have. I mean, it’s a total lifesaver! Throw it on over a white t-shirt and jeans, and you instantly look so put-together for a casual day out.
Or, for a chic evening vibe, layer it over a slinky slip dress. It’s also a go-to for the office, making it an item you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.
It’s so worth taking the time and spending the money to find a keeper that will last you for years.
2. Classic Jewelry Pieces
I think we’ve all been there—buying cheap jewelry that turns green after a few wears and ends up getting tossed.
Instead of constantly replacing those pieces you don’t really love, it’s so much better to invest a little more in a few classic items you can wear for years.
The good news is that with so many new jewelry brands cutting out the middlemen, buying quality pieces has become so much more affordable. Finding those perfect everyday items is a total win.
3. A Trench Coat
Originally created for British Army officers to shield them from rain before World War I, the trench coat has become one of the most iconic wardrobe staples.
The Burberry trench, in particular, is an amazing investment piece. It has seriously stood the test of time, making a comeback every single year. I love that it’s such a perfect transition piece for fall.
It gives off such an effortlessly sophisticated vibe, no matter what your personal style is.
4. Black Ankle Boots
Just like a great pair of white sneakers, black ankle boots have proven they are here to stay. And for good reason!
A classic black ankle boot looks good with just about anything—jeans, dresses, skirts, you name it. A really well-made, comfortable pair of boots can easily become the most-worn item in your closet.
If you take good care of them, they can last a lifetime, especially if you’re up for re-soling them every few years.
5. A Clutch Purse
Most of the time, we think of clutches as just for evenings out. They add this aura of sophistication and elegance and feel reserved for special events.
But who says they can’t be an everyday thing? These low-maintenance bags have such a high impact.
Clutches from Bottega Veneta are instantly recognizable, and you might be surprised by how much they can hold depending on the size.
Plus, so many bags from Saint Laurent have a detachable chain, so it’s like getting two bags in one! A clutch will always look stylish, whether you’re grabbing drinks, doing lunch with friends, or pairing it with your work outfits.
6. Leather Jacket
A leather jacket is one of those pieces that literally goes with everything and will last forever.
I’m a big believer that if you invest in a good quality jacket that you truly love, you can wear it for decades and never need a new one. Leather is also one of those materials that just gets better with age.
A leather jacket will slowly stretch and mold to your body over time, giving you that perfect custom fit.
7. A Little Black Dress
The little black dress is so iconic it even has its own acronym. The LBD, or whatever the equivalent is for your personal style, is a wardrobe essential that every woman should own.
This is that one dress you can pull out for anything—meetings, cocktail parties, formal events, or date nights. Having one in your closet is a game-changer because you’ll always have something appropriate and chic to wear for any occasion.
8. A Crossbody Purse
For a day bag that’s both practical and functional, a crossbody is the absolute best choice. They’re usually big enough to carry more than just your keys and lip gloss, and I love that they let you be hands-free.
Because the weight is spread across your body, a crossbody bag is super comfortable to wear for long periods.
This makes them a perfect bag for traveling, when you’re likely spending lots of time walking and exploring new places.
9. A Winter Coat
I’ve always felt that a great winter coat is such a solid investment, especially if you live somewhere with a cold climate.
For months out of the year, it’s the one item you wear almost daily, and it’s what most people see you in. More importantly, it needs to keep you warm and dry, and quality materials and construction just cost more.
People don’t buy these every year. A high-quality parka that you wear for several months should last at least five years, if not way longer. And a good wool coat can seriously last a lifetime.
10. Leather Belt
A belt is one of those accessories that we often don’t think much about, unless you’re someone who loves to make them a statement piece. For the rest of us, having at least two nice, quality belts is really all you need.
Being able to match your belt to your shoes or bag might seem like a small detail, but it’s those little things that really pull an entire outfit together and make it look so polished.
11. A Piece Of Statement Jewelry
Statement jewelry is so personal to your own style and what the word means to you. It could be an expensive piece you only pull out for special occasions, or it might be a bold piece of jewelry that gets a ton of attention.
An expensive pair of earrings or an extravagant ring could become a family heirloom that you pass down to your children one day.
On the other hand, a unique necklace without a huge price tag can be a valuable way to express yourself. Either way, the jewelry becomes a totally worthy investment.
12. A Versatile Coat
A versatile coat is that perfect everyday piece that looks great with just about any outfit.
It’s not as casual as a puffer jacket, and it’s something you should be able to wear for work, a date night, or even more formal events and still look totally appropriate.
I find that neutral-colored wool coats with classic cuts become absolute mainstays in your closet that can last a lifetime.
13. A Work Tote
Tote bags are amazing because they’re large but still lightweight, making them perfect for carrying all your daily must-haves in a neat way.
From home to work, while you’re traveling, or even as a chic diaper bag substitute, you’ll look good and feel comfortable carrying it. This is a bag you really only need one of.
I’d suggest thinking about the colors in your wardrobe and picking a bag that will go with most of your outfits. Because you’ll use it so much, investing in a beautiful, high-quality tote is completely worth it.
14. A Timepiece
There’s just something about the feeling of confidence and value you get from wearing a watch. It’s such a great luxury item that adds an elegant, eye-catching touch to any look, whether it’s super casual or more dressed up.
This accessory also gives off the impression that you’re someone who values time and is reliable. It’s those little things that people notice subconsciously and can help make a great first impression.
In situations like a job interview or a business meeting, that can be incredibly useful.