Of the many lessons we learn as we grow into adulthood, none holds better to the fine art of shopping than the thought that you get what you pay for. In some instances—when the buy is meant to last a season or is deeply trend-driven—there’s value in not spending much. If it’s an item that you’ll use and love for decades, though, higher price tags are worth it. Craftsmanship, intelligent design, and a commitment to details are all things luxury brands excel at, resulting in the sort of things you can buy knowing it’ll stay in the rotation for years.
Bar a wedding band or stud earrings, your watch is the accessory you can wear every single day. As such, it’s a category to invest in, and one that you can do so with confidence. Impeccable craftsmanship and tradition combine to make a piece you’ll want to wear for forever.
Rolex Datejust 31, price upon request; rolex.com
Subject to tough love on the daily, your bag should be built to withstand slinging, stuffing, and shoving. Stay away from counterintuitive thinking: A better constructed (and therefore more expensive style) can survive the abuse, far outlasting its bargain-bin counterparts.
Hermès Picotin Lock 18, $2,675; hermes.com
Unless you’re prone to losing sunglasses, make them a basic you invest in. You’ll notice the difference between a handmade pair and not the moment you take the former out of its case.
Illesteva Leonard Sunglasses, $211; matchesfashion.com
Boot shapes, silhouettes, and finishes change season-to-season, but consider the trusty riding boot if you’re looking for a constant. Born of practicality and too streamlined to ever feel old, it works with almost everything (and looks more luxurious the more it’s worn).
Chloé Lenny Over-the-Knee Boots, $1,650; barneys.com
High-shine gems and stones will never look out of place. If you’ve already got solitaire studs, look for a pair with a slightly unique cut or arrangement that you can wear for everyday or an occasion.
Paul Morelli Confetti Diamond Climber Earrings, $8,500; neimanmarcus.com
The price tag on street-corner umbrellas can make you think it’s a necessity not worth spending money on, but there are myriad benefits to a high-quality cover. A handmade style will benefit from stronger, better design, a blessing when the rain’s coming down in sheets.
Fox Umbrellas Hardwood Handle Umbrella, $125; foxumbrellas.co.uk
From wheels that pivot to a handle that glides smoothly, every part of this case makes for an easier pack than cheaper varieties. Splurge on it once knowing you’ll never be faced with replacing in the future.
Tumi Continental Carry-On, $495; tumi.com
