My Top 13 Key Investment Pieces

As a busy working parent, I have a set of uniforms that are my immediate go to pieces.  Each year, I have an item or 2 that I’d like to invest in and the savings usually start on January 1.  Most of these pieces have been my investment over time as I build my wardrobe from work to play. This takes the guessing game out of finding something to wear first thing in the morning or a last minute venue, not to mention they can outlive any trends.  I believe in the longevity of a garment because you can do so many things with them for many years, so invest in a great quality coat or quality sweater is worth the splurge.

Here are my top 13 key investment pieces for fall/winter that I can wear and rotate year after year regardless of trends.

1. A Button Down Shirt:  What can I say about this shirt?  It is effortless and versatile and you can have this wardrobe staple for years to come.  A great white shirt doesn’t have to break the bank but if you can find a designer one like this is definitely worth the investment.
2. An Oversized Sunnies:  The oversized sunglasses will never go out of style.  Besides offering the chic look it also works as a skin barrier from the harmful rays.
3. A Statement Necklace:  I have countless…way too many I think.  I personally think you only need a few from a pearl strand to an eye catching bling style because they make your wardrobe and silhouettes so much more interesting and personal.
4. A Cashmere Sweater: I’m a cashmere whore!  Yes, I invest in every neutral color and style because they are so elegant and chic as well as durable and practical.  I LOVE traveling with them because they don’t wrinkle and offer great insulation in the winter for warmth and cool in the spring.  This vneck version is perfect and goes with everything!
5. A Little Black Dress:  This is essential in every woman’s closet.  No doubt a little black dress is synonymous with chic, sophisticated style.  Pair with the right accessory and you can transform this dress from casual to even black tie.  I love the vneck of this LBD because I can do rocker chic by pairing with a leather motorcycle jacket, business chic with a blazer, or casual run with a cargo jacket.  Talk about versatility!
6. A Tailored Suit:  Not every woman needs a tailored suit but every woman in the workforce should have this in her closet.  Just like the white button down shirt, if you can invest in a designer one then I think this blue suit is definitely worth the splurge.
7. A Trench Coat:  Yes, the classic trench coat.  This piece belongs in every woman’s wardrobe.  I have a couple that are non-designer and they look like they are almost on their last legs.  I’ve been eyeing this one for my investment list and I’m hoping I can fulfill this wish by 2018.
8. A Winter Coat:  I have a number of winter coats but living in LA does not warrant daily wear in the winter.  However, I know I can rely on them whenever a family visit in the east coast is necessary.  I don’t have a winter white color and I think I’m adding this to my investment list for 2016/2017 as well!
9. A Structured Bag: I have a number of bags but I can always count on my structured bag for business meetings as well as a night at the movie with the family.  This is by far the best and most attractive structured bag I have ever laid my eyes on…(xmas gift…I hope you are reading this, hon!)
10. Skinny Denim: I live and die for skinny jeans.  I personally think this trend will stay for as long as I live.  Not only do they look sexy with pumps year round, they are even more sexy when worn with OTK boots in fall/winter.
11. Pumps: This is another piece that you need in your closet.  My favorite color is black because it goes with virtually everything.  Lately, I’ve been eyeing the t-bar strap pumps in suede because I think they offer an element of sexiness without being too obvious.
12. Over the Knee Boots:  I own a number of knee boots and not only until the last few years that I started to invest in OTK boots.  Wish I had done that sooner because I find my self wearing the same pair every season year after year.  Now, that’s a great investment!
13. A Pencil Skirt:  I think pencil skirts are very sexy and business like.  Overall, I still think it’s a closet staple that one should invest in especially if you work.  They are versatile, conservative, and sexy in a subtle manner.  I can see myself this fall and winter wearing a knit sweater with over the knee boots or pumps to looking chic and modern.

Do  you notice a pattern here?  They are all in neutral colors, which allow me to mix and match any trends to stay modern and chic.  You don’t have to invest in all these items all at once but if you can that’s wonderful.  If it takes you years to invest in a handbag that you love that’s even better because you will appreciate it even more.

Lyst has been my go to site to keep an eye on any items I want by setting up alerts.  Why Lyst and not other sites?  To start, they will hunt my items globally to find it for me if it’s sold out.  The best part is that they will also let me know as soon as the items go on sale.  With the holidays right around the corner, I can depend on Lyst to alert some of my investment pieces when they go on sale or come back in stock!

You can also create your own wish “lyst” with some of your favorite items.  Signing up is free so don’t forget to check it out!

Disclosure:  This post is sponsored by Lyst.  As always all opinions are my own.