Found in Issue No. 266
How To Shop Smart-Buy Staples
- Words By
- Bibby Sowray
- Edited By
- Petro Stofberg
Jeans
Jeans are a tricky subject. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for finding the perfect pair – it’s so dependent on body shape and personal fit preference. But what we do recommend is choosing pairs with a high cotton percentage and as little stretch as possible (99% cotton, 1% elastane is always a good mix) – this makes for more authentic-looking, thick, crisp denim that’s more flattering. Mid and dark washes are a safe bet – stonewashed denim is harder to get right and style, especially in the winter months when we generally wear darker colours – and check out the seams and hardware before committing to purchase; you want strong zips, seams and buttons.
Cashmere
Cashmere is always a wise investment and the high street is now home to a lot of it at an affordable price. If you can, go for 100% cashmere, if not, cashmere with a small added wool percentage is a good alternative. The key is care and maintenance. Wash your cashmere as little as possible. Instead, air or steam it and use a gentle fabric freshening spray if needed to combat any clingy smells. A debobbler or clothes shaver is a gentle way to rid the inevitable bobbles that can appear at friction points. Moths love cashmere, so when winter is over, pack it away in moth-proof bags and store it with cedar balls or lavender bags to keep the pesky bugs away.
The Trench
Trench coats are all over the high street, and mid-range, you’re spoilt for choice. But the wrong one can be a real mistake and end up becoming a bit of a sartorial albatross around your neck – something you wear but never really feel confident in. Polly advises checking out any hardware on the trench and making sure it’s good quality - easily broken or cheaply made buckles are a no-no. She also recommends going for heavier fabrics that give a more luxurious feel. A lining also helps with this by allowing the coat to sit more neatly because of the weight. Showerproof fabrics are a wise choice and increase wearability greatly.
Flats
Flats are enjoying a real renaissance at the moment and they’re a welcome re-addition to a forever wardrobe. More delicate than a trainer, more versatile than a sandal, they fill the between-seasons gap nicely. While mesh styles may be trending at the moment, they’re not the most practical (or hardwearing) so a leather flat is a better option. If you can, spend a little more to get lasting quality and opt for sturdy soles – and don’t forget, if the sole begins to wear through, they can always be resoled. Maintenance is the best way to ensure that shoes last for years.
The Knitted Dress
A real hero piece, a knitted dress is a great throw-on-and-go item. Polly suggests going for thicker knits, as this allows the dress to hang better, and opting for wool, cotton or cashmere fabrications. She also advises upsizing for a more relaxed silhouette. Choosing a neutral tone is the best way to ensure maximum wearability.
The Blazer
When it comes to cover-ups, few items are as versatile as the blazer. The right one will serve you for years, and affordable tailoring has never been better than it is right now. Polly recommends choosing styles made from thicker fabrics, like wool or a wool mix, as they maintain their shape. Look also for details that add a feeling of luxury, like sharper shoulders, well-placed pockets and good-quality buttons. If you’re looking for one to wear as a casual option, go for a slightly oversized, relaxed fit, while a blazer for work would benefit from being a little more tailored and neater.
The White T-Shirt
We’ve all got a few in our wardrobes, but finding the perfect one can be a process of trial-and-error, and often it can take years of buying not-quite-right versions before you find the ultimate plain white tee. Our tips? Go for a 100% cotton fabrication, ensure it’s not too short in the body – you want to be able to comfortably tuck it into waistbands – and always opt for a simple crewneck design.
Leather Trousers
Though they may not at first appear to be a wardrobe staple, leather trousers are an incredibly versatile piece. Finding a 100% leather pair at an affordable price is tough, but a lot of faux leather is really good now, so don’t be put off. Look for faux leather that’s matte, rather than shiny, and go for a loose fit that’s cropped at the ankle – this makes them easier to wear with flats and much more versatile.