The older I get, the less I find myself obsessing over the latest trends—anyone with me? I’ve tried my fair share of cult items and fleeting fads in my decade of working in fashion, but settling into my own personal style since turning thirty has meant gravitating towards more timeless pieces. Those classics that all work together to create an efficient, polished capsule. Of course, it’s also about trying to be as responsible with my wardrobe purchases as possible, and this more considered approach also means focusing on better fabrics that will last, and pieces that I can be confident I’ll want to pull out next year as much as this one.
Although it would be nice to start my grown-up wardrobe afresh with one of everything from The Row, that’s far from a reality unless I win this weekend’s Lotto rollover. Instead, though, I am increasingly on the lookout for those premium pieces that feel and look luxurious, but still come in under the £500 mark. These investment buys still feel incredibly special, and they work hard making the rest of my predominantly high street wardrobe look expensive too. Of course, if you’re spending that much on pieces you want to be able to wear them forever, so it’s mostly minimalist, monochrome items I’m being drawn to, that I can guarantee won’t age.
As I’ve been scrolling through all the new-in drops recently, I’ve been bookmarking all the pieces that fit this description. Mainly so I can start considering which items are truly worth investing in for the new autumn season ahead, but also so I can share my finds with you. Turns out, there’s a lot of beautiful forever pieces in the new collections, ready to elevate your outfits in an instant. From smart wide-leg trousers, to crisp shirts—and I’m even starting to get excited about *whispers* outerwear again.
Keep scrolling and you’ll see the truly timeless new-in pieces I’ve wishlisted lately—and although they look like you’ve spent thousands on them, they’re all under £500. You can thank me later…
Shop the Best New-In Forever Pieces Under £500
I've just found my dream wide leg trousers.
It might still be warm outside, but this expensive-looking jacket will no doubt sell out quickly, so I'm getting ahead.
A ribbed knit dress is such a versatile capsule piece.
Yes, chunky loafers are still trending. But I prefer a more timeless version like these when I'm investing.
Every editor at Who What Wear has their eyes on this set for autumn.
Cargo pants made chic.
I have an Arket leather blazer in my arsenal, and it only gets better with age.
Reformations Mason pants are the best around— and loved by celebs too. They hang beautifully, so look much more expensive than they are.
A camel coat is an autumn/winter staple you'll be grateful for every year.
The most stylish silhouette.
Add this to any pair of trousers to instantly elevate them.
Arket's blazers are well known by insiders as the best on the high street.
I'm still not over this knit, and it's now a complete classic.
The curved lapel on this jacket makes it feel so premium.
A grown-up LBD.
A.P.C. bags never go out of style.
I'd wear this with a white T-shirt underneath now, and a roll neck come winter.
A great transitional jacket.
Make any outfit look chic with this in hand.
Everyone needs a classic pair of gold hoops in their collection.
Personally, I love a cropped trouser as they go with so many different types of shoes.
The best shirt out there, in my opinion.
White denim in autumn feels surprisingly fresh.
I honestly can't believe this trench coat isn't designer.
The most elevated trainers, full stop.
Tie this light knit around your shoulders when wearing your tank tops into the new season, and tuck it into wide-leg trousers when things get cooler.
A classic shirt with a linen twist.
Effortless in every way.
This would also look great with knee-high boots.
A leather biker is another capsule staple. Opt for a longer length like this one for a more elevated feel.
Up Next: I'm an Editor—These 9 Summer Items From The Row Are Truly Worth the Investment
Opening Image: @thevisuelofgrace, @alexisforeman, @brittanybathgate
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to WearReady in 10 minutes or less.
-
The Only 9 Jackets You Need for Spring, According to Fashion PeopleThere's something for everyone.
-
And Now, 5 Elevated Ways to Wear Your Jeans in 2024Denim devotees, unite.
-
After 5 Days in Aspen, I'm Officially Hooked on Western Pieces—5 I'm Loving RNFrom cowboy hats to fringe accents.
-
I Asked Over 2000 Women Where to Buy the Best White Shirts—They Love These 23Your definitive guide.
-
Here's How French Women Are Styling Their Jeans Right NowTake note.
-
French Women Always Wear This Jeans-and-Flats Outfit FormulaEasy as un, deux, trois.
-
I Went to France and Saw Everyone Wearing These 5 Basics on the Streets of ParisEffortless and chic.
