5 Members Of The NET-A-PORTER Team Share Their Forever Pieces
What’s the one item in your closet you couldn’t be without? The forever piece (or pieces) you’ll lovingly care for, repair, and rewear year after year? We posed this question to five fashion aficionados on the NET-A-PORTER team – and here’s what they told us…
A classic blazer
“My shopping mantra is ‘buy less, buy better’ – because I like investing in timeless pieces that I know will stand the test of time. If there’s one item in my closet I always rely on, it’s a blazer – a forever piece that can easily be dressed up or down. I wear my Toteme blazer (which I bought years ago) everywhere and anywhere – mostly with jeans and a white T-shirt to the office, then with tailored pants and a pair of heels for a polished after-hours look. I’m very much looking forward to treating myself to a blazer by The Row that’s been on my wish list forever…” Viktorija Tomasevic, shopping editor
A day-to-night dress
“I rely on a roster of five timeless dresses that are versatile enough to wear to the office or an evening event. I adore brilliant brands like The Row, Róhe, Khaite, JW Anderson, Tove, and Proenza Schouler for their flattering silhouettes that suit my shape; luxurious fabrics that endure season after season; and classic designs that allow me to wear them in a multitude of ways – paired with my favorite heels and accessories for a nighttime occasion, or with simple ballet flats and a denim jacket or casual blazer for the office.” Alice Casely-Hayford, content director
Investment denim
“I’m a strong believer in a capsule wardrobe and investing in versatile pieces that work with many different outfits, suit your lifestyle, and make you feel confident and special. One of the true workhorses in my wardrobe is my ‘Miro’ jeans by Citizens of Humanity. For me, they’re flattering, comfortable, and can be dressed up with a heeled boot or down with flats or sneakers. Typically, when I find a fit that works, I’ll buy it in at least two washes and build my outfits from there. For fall, I have my eye on Alaïa’s high-rise, wide-leg jeans, which feature a stretch-knit panel at the waist and look chic with both oversized shirts and slim crew necks.” Ali Fitzgerald, buying manager
A suede bag
“OK, hear me out – yes, a suede bag requires a bit more maintenance and care than its sturdier leather counterparts. But if you can embrace its naturally lived-in appearance over time, you’ll come to love suede, too. My first foray into suede bags was Toteme’s ‘T-Lock’ clutch in a rich dark-chocolate brown. After a brief honeymoon phase, where I barely wanted to touch it for fear of ruining it, I invested in a great suede protector spray (always spot-test!) and a brush – and now it’s been my go-to weekend bag all summer. Next on my wish list is Saint Laurent’s ‘Le 5 À 7 Bea’ tote – a generously sized beauty that I was lucky enough to road-test on a recent shoot. My favorite thing about suede is that it naturally has a luxe, heirloom feel; my own little girl can look forward to inheriting mine one day. Plus, suede lets you tap into the bohemian trend without going full-on fringe or ruffled blouses – perfect if, like me, you’re more of a minimalist.” Gillian Brett, head of fashion content
A trans-seasonal jacket
“I love the first few weeks of fall – they’re perfect for transitional leather and suede jackets. I’ve developed a soft spot for biker jackets in particular, which add an edge to my otherwise polished, minimal looks. I usually balance the toughness of the jacket with a dress – often in silk or featuring details like pleats, as seen here on an older Toteme piece – and accessories such as ballet flats and clutch bags. I’d pair my oversized, distressed leather jacket with a gray crew-neck knit, chunky gold jewelry, slim pants or denim, and kitten heels. You can always count on Saint Laurent, Khaite, Nour Hammour, Toteme, and Róhe to have great options.” Lydia Zacharis, buying manager