Survival of the Chicest: The 25 Staples That Will Never Die

As an editor of a fashion website, I spend a lot of time reporting on new trends, new labels, and new ways to wear things. However, sometimes you really never can beat a classic, and it's arguably even more important to build a wardrobe that you'll love for years—if not decades. To help you do that, here is a list of 25 items that will always rise high above trends, making them the perfect pieces to invest in. From the jeans that have been popular for 150 years to accessories you'll treasure always, here are the 25 chicest items that will never die.

As the Burberry raincoat proves, a classic trench never goes out of style. 

This was a wardrobe staple for Audrey Hepburn, too. 

Another Audrey-approved buy, a little black dress will last you decades if you opt for a classic shape. 

Denim trends come and go, but skinny jeans remain.

Thankfully, the high street is awash with amazing double-breasted jackets this season.

When it comes to sunnies, Ray-Ban's Wayfarers are a wear-forever investment.

When it comes to leather jackets, the Acne Studios biker is the one you want hanging in your wardrobe.

White shirts aren't just for work, as they will slot into your beach and weekend wardrobes too. 

Black leather Chelsea boots are always elegant—and Acne Studios' Jensens are our favorites.

A gold pendant is another chic item that will survive all your wardrobe clear-outs.

When it comes to handbags, a quilted Chanel option is the definition of timeless.

These Gucci horsebit loafers could feature in Eva Chen's signature pose for decades, as they are that timeless.

Whatever age you are, a cashmere sweater is always considered a chic luxury. 

You might have to replace your white T-shirts regularly, but they will forever be a wardrobe building block.

Swimsuit trends are forever changing. However, a simple black swimsuit will always have a place in your suitcase.

Belts might seem like a boring purchase, but they can actually make any outfit look so much more put-together. 

Ballet pumps are the skinny jeans of the shoe world. They might not be considered the coolest, but they always look polished. You can't go wrong with a Chanel pair like Emili Sindlev's.

When it comes to outerwear, a classic camel coat never dates—especially if it's Max Mara.

Jewelry-wise, a pair of gold hoops is a solid investment, whether they are tiny, simple rings or have a more statement silhouette.

Simple white trainers, whether it's Veja or Converse, are also not going to date.

Here we have another trend to thank Coco Chanel for. A classic tweed or bouclé jacket really does work whether you're 80 or 18—it's just a matter of how you style it.

Black pumps are the pièce de résistance of trends, and you'll have them as long as the stilettos remain standing.

You can't possibly talk about wardrobe icons without mentioning Levi's 501s. Did you know they have actually been around since 1873?

A printed silk scarf by the likes of Hermès or Gucci is the sort of item you'll pass onto your grandchildren. And the good thing is they can be styled in dozens of ways.

A classic leather pair of sandals is something you'll want to wear forever—especially if they're Hermès Orans.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK and has since been updated.