We’ve all heard the phrase “buy less, buy better” by now, and it encourages us to do exactly as it says: invest in fewer, high-quality pieces that should last a lifetime. But what items actually fall into this category? And which ones will genuinely stand the test of time, ready to be passed down through generations? Not in an older-sister hand-me-down style (thanks, Mum), but as true investment pieces that deserve to be cherished.
Well, I have the answers, learned from a family tree of women who have long understood this very assignment. Take a 30-plus-year-old original Prada nylon bag originally bought by my mum and now living in my own collection, a similarly aged pair of Gucci loafers from my aunt, or an even older Burberry trench coat inherited from my nan, who also has a now-vintage bag collection any fashion fan would envy. All of which act as a perfect example of forever-in-fashion finds, acting as a blueprint of what a true lifetime buy actually is. Although, I’ll stress, they don’t all have to be designer.
The key, really, is quality fabrics — cashmere, wool, leather, cotton — as long as you care for them properly, crafted beautifully, and designed with timelessness in mind. A With Nothing Underneath shirt, The Row jumper, and a Max Mara coat tick all the boxes, for example. Or, of course, there are the brands that embed longevity into their ethos, offering lifetime guarantees or free repairs: Nudie Jeans and Antler suitcases, here’s looking at you.
Below, a list of even more lifetime fashion finds to weave into your own forever wardrobe — many of which you may already own.
Shop the ultimate forever fashion pieces
When asked what her forever fashion find is, our fashion director Lily Russo Bah immediately answered a Max Mara coat. This 100% camel hair style is effortlessly chic and will truly stand the test of time.
Nudie Jeans have a pretty incredible customer service, offering free repairs forever. Simply take your pair into your closest repair shop and the handy makers will patch up holes, sew on buttons and re-hem your Nudie favourites to keep them looking good for, well, a lifetime.
Own any of Bottega Veneta's 'intrecciato' leather bags and you are the owner of a piece of fashion history and a future heirloom. Handmade from the softest lambskin using the house's signature woven leather technique - this is craftsmanship at its finest.
So long as you protect the lenses (or occasionally get them changed), a great pair of sunglasses will last much longer than just one lifetime. I promise it pays to keep them in their case.
Invest in a black Saint Laurent blazer and you'll have a forever piece that can be worn on almost any occasion.
Now, almost any luxury handbag can be considered a forever fashion find — a Chanel classic flap, Louis Vuitton Speedy, and Gucci Jackie, all included. But a Fendi Baguette is a timeless staple that you won't spot on the arm of every other fashion fan.
Unlike bracelets and necklaces that often change with out outfits, our ring stack can stay consistent for years or even decades. One timeless design? Chanel's Coco Crush, complete with a quilting design you'll recognise from the bags.
Any fashion editor will tell you that a lived-in white shirt is infinitely chicer than a stiff, starched style, and few brands are more in-demand right now than With Nothing Underneath.
The Row is the go-to brand for luxury fashion fans searching for timeless staples and a navy cashmere jumper is a foundational element in any wardrobe. Be sure to take extra care when washing as to not shrink this cosy cop.
A timepiece makes for one of the best longterm investments as well as a particularly chic family heirloom. Few are as classic as a Cartier Tank.
These sturdy calf leather boots are another one of fashion director Lily Russo Bah's forever fashion finds. They're also incredibly easy to style with dresses, skirts and even over jeans and may just require the occasional resoling.
Barbour’s wax jackets are built to withstand wind, rain, and a proper Great British winter, so they’re made of pretty sturdy stuff. But, if yours could do with a refresh, the brand offers a re-waxing service to keep it in your wardrobe for even longer.
Almost any Hermès item qualifies as a lifetime buy, but a silk scarf is a true forever piece. To fully embrace timeless style, choose a print that’s unmistakably on-brand, like this orange bridle design.
In case you missed it, suitcases are now considered high fashion finds, specifically this silver Rimowa style. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee so long as you register it on the website.
A black wool maxi coat is truly timeless, so long as you keep it in good nick—the debobbler will be your best friend. This Prada style is particularly sleek whether worn to work or over an LBD at the weekend.
The key to making shoes last a lifetime? Regular resoling and a thorough clean — both easily done at most cobblers. If my aunt’s cream Gucci loafers still look pristine after 30 years, a classic black leather pair will go even further.
Any Tiffany piece would be classed as a forever find—the Tiffany lock, T, and knot, included—but anything from the Elsa Peretti collection is particularly chic. This cuff was originally designed in 1970 but looks just as on-trend today.
I’d dub a Burberry trench coat the ultimate lifetime fashion buy — I’ve seen countless vintage styles that are 40 years old or more. Simply put, they’re built to last, and with the brand’s refresh service, your trench can receive a little extra TLC whenever it needs it.
Another timeless timepiece? Any one of Bulgari's Serpenti styles, which you can also find in ring, bracelet and necklace designs.
A real leather jacket will last more than one lifetime, so it certainly pays to invest in a timeless cut—just like this burgundy sheep leather button-up.
While a silver Rimowa might be spotted next to countless celebrity travellers, it’s an Antler suitcase you’ll find alongside a fashion editor on the move — myself included. Not only does it boast clever compartments (including one that’s waterproof — perfect for the occasional spilled shampoo), but the brand also offers a lifetime guarantee.
Wellies may not be the first item on the list when you think of forever fashion finds, but if you are after a weather-proof shoe, Le Chameau is the label to turn to. A favourite of many a Glasto-attending celeb and the royal family, the classic green colourway will be a longtime feature in any shoe collection.
