It’s no secret that us Who What Wear editors love to find chic buys at a more affordable price point. Of course, there are some great value, classic pieces to be found on the great British high street that will last a long time in your collection. But sometimes, when curating your forever wardrobe, you’re looking to spend a bit more on quality, luxury items that then elevate the rest of your wardrobe effortlessly. And while we do love an expensive-looking bargain, as experts in the industry we also know a thing or two about a smart designer fashion investment.
So, as we close out 2022 and all start thinking about those special gifts we could ask Santa for (it’s worth a shot, right?), or about which pieces we’re looking to invest in for the year ahead, I thought I’d put the question to my fellow editors: what’s on your luxury wish list right now? And their answers didn’t disappoint. We’re talking beautiful, buttery-leather bags, baby-soft cashmere knits and iconic camel coats. Pieces that they love now but will also stand by forever. One thing’s for sure, these women know how to elongate someone else’s wish list in a heartbeat—you’ve been warned.
Below you can see and shop their luxury shopping picks and my own. Not everything on our lists is wildly expensive—some are little luxuries— but rest assured when they do come with a higher price tag, it’s on there because we believe it’s worth every penny. There’s some all time classics we’ve been lusting after for a long time, and some fresher new-in pieces that already seem just as timeless. Any one of these buys, though, feels rightly special, and will add polish to your everyday wardrobes for many years to come. Keep scrolling for some luxurious shopping inspiration…
“Less a coat, more an icon. Max Mara’s camel-coloured jackets have been the most desirable luxury winter wardrobe buy, for years and years (and years). That’s the kind of backing I like my investment pieces to have. And if one’s thing’s for certain, it’s that you’ll never regret purchasing this totally timeless Madame.”
“I’m not a bag lady, if I’m honest. I don’t own numerous styles, and only ever have one or two classics on rotation. But every few years I’ll fall hard for a timeless designer style, save up and wear it on repeat with everything I own. Loewe’s Luna has been on my mind all season; it hasn’t been over-exposed and it feels elegant and cool at the same time. It’s perfect—and if you need me I’ll be over here continuing to save my pennies until she’s mine.”
“I’ve decided I’d like to be that sophisticated woman-in-her-thirties that only has a small but perfectly formed capsule wardrobe. That means I’m going to need just a couple of really, really good quality knits for winter. This Totême jumper, which will go with everything, is where I’m planning to start.”
“I wear knitted dresses all season long, so I know I’ll get plenty of wear out of a more premium option. This figure-hugging style comes in lots of different colourways, and I can’t pick a favourite.”
“I’m a woman possessed—by the quest to find the perfect-fit leather trousers. By all accounts so far, everyone says these are the one. So, I simply must try them…”
“Black boots are the cornerstone of my entire winter wardrobe, and these have been on my list for a few months now because they have the perfect height and shaped heel, and I love how a stretch/sock-boot ankle will work under jeans and dresses alike.”
“I’m of the opinion that there just aren’t enough dresses with capes out there, so you can imagine my delight when I caught a glimpse of this By Malene Birger knitted iteration. Already doing the social media rounds, I have a feeling this midi is going to fly. What; not a pun fan?”
“After seeing so many of my fellow editors (as well as favourite influencers and celebs) in knee-high boots this season, I’m looking to invest in a pair of my own. This Staud pair caught my eye recently thanks to their perfect heel height and buttery soft leather, as well their chic, slightly slouchy silhouette. I’ll wear them with all my dresses as well as leggings and mini skirts, so I know they’re a worthy investment!”
“I firmly believe that investing in great quality knitwear is never a bad idea, and if I can stretch to the top of my budget for a sweater or cardigan that will last me for years then I always will. Khaite has become a cult brand for stylish yet timeless knitwear and this cashmere design is just that. Plus, have you seen the amazing collar? I’m sold!”
“Nothing says party season quite like a beautiful red dress and this satin style by one of my all time favourite dress brands, Bernadette, is the best of the best. I just love the high-low overlay as well as the pretty bow detail under the bust, and will be wearing it on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and to plenty of weddings throughout 2023.”
“I have to confess, I own a lot of shoes, but I’ve finally found a style that feels as good as they look. Whether it’s knee-high, ankle, or over-the-knee–I’m always obsessed with a polished, low heeled boot and these tick both comfortable and chic boxes.”
“Jewellery fans will already be familiar with Alighieri’s brand of rugged, romantic pieces. No matter what I wear into the next season, I know stacking a few of their chains and bracelets is a timeless combination that elevates even the most simple outfit.”
“Is there anything more luxurious than spending some much needed me time on a new seIf-care routine? I fell in love with Koba’s rich, decadent formulas, and next on my list is the hand and foot bundle–a winter essential”
