What Clothes Should I Invest In?
What Editors Just Won't Buy From Fast Fashion Stores
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While stores like H&M, Zara, and Forever 21 are regular stops for our style-obsessed editors, there's a limit to our love for fast fashion. In some cases, quality wins out — you can't beat the craftsmanship of a real leather bag or heels that won't kill your feet — and we're willing to shell out a little more for a piece that'll truly last.
If you've ever experienced the regret that comes with a fast-fashion impulse buy, read on as our editors reveal the clothing and accessories they're willing to invest in time and time again, despite the temptation of a shiny new Zara bag or heels that ring in under $50. As we've learned, some things really are worth the money.
Bags
"To me, a bag is something to invest in. It's the one wardrobe staple that quality and craftsmanship really matters. When I'm wearing a t-shirt and denim, it's always the bag that makes the look." — Dana Avidan Cohn, executive style director
"I'm done buying trendy, one-off bags. There's something special about the craftsmanship of a designer bag I'll have for years. And just like Dana, I, too, believe the bag makes the look — even when I'm running around in old jeans with no makeup on. People will always notice a great bag." — Hannah Weil McKinley, director, Fashion
"I definitely always save up to buy bags and, recently, well-made shoes. So you won't find me buying low-top sneakers at H&M or even a cute bucket bag from Zara; I would rather save up for a special shoe or bag, since these are the items I get the most wear out of." — Sarah Wasilak, editor, Fashion
Mansur Gavriel Sun Mini Mini Leather Tote
Chanel Quilted New Medium Boy Bag
Chanel Quilted New Medium Boy Bag ($4,800)
Simon Miller Bonsai Pebbled Leather Bucket Bag
Heels
"I would have to say that I would never buy heels from fast fashion. I have wide feet so I always have to be extra choosy with any shoes. When I have tried buying heels in the past, I've always ended up regretting it because I end up with blisters and can't walk the next day." — Nikita Ramsinghani, assistant editor, Fashion
Loeffler Randall Coco Knotted Velvet Block Heel Mules
Alexandre Birman Clarita Stack Heel Platform Sandals
Sam Edelman Odele Gingham Canvas Sandals
Outerwear
"The one thing I will never buy are Winter coats. I feel tempted sometimes by the affordable prices for a cute parka or peacoat, but I know they won't last me through the brutal NYC Winters. I prefer to pay a little more and have one coat that's a classic rather than five 'just OK' versions of it." — Marina Liao, assistant editor, Fashion
AYR The Robe Coat
AYR The Robe Coat ($585)
London Fog Women's Double Breasted Trench Coat
Rag & Bone Women's Darwen Reversible Wool & Cashmere Coat
Workout Gear
"One thing I'll never buy from fast fashion is workout apparel. Whether it's running shoes or tights, fast fashion is usually about style rather than function. Working out in quality fitness wear is super important to me — especially items like sports bras or running shoes — so I'd rather spend the money on brands that test their clothing for things like sweat wicking or even injury prevention." — Rebecca Brown, editor, Shopping
Adidas Women's Trefoil Sports Bra
Adidas by Stella McCartney Train Ultra Tights
Nike Women's Vapormax Flyknit Running Shoe
Jewelry
"Although it's fun to buy affordable statement jewelry, I try to stay away from fast-fashion retailers for necklaces and bracelets. The gems fall out after a couple wears, and I can't tell you how many times I have broken a clasp. I have found that quality jewelry is a better investment anyway — classic designs never go out of style, and the craftsmanship makes it last for years." — Macy Cate Williams, assistant editor, Shopping
