I’m going to show my age here, but having a career in accounting/bookkeeping, I put clothing purchases in the expense category. I don’t view fashion as a long term investment, because of the facts mentioned that there is little ROI unless the piece is a designer bag or something that can easily be sold. I think of clothing expense as a purchase that is necessary, can be fun or pleasurable, but will ultimately cost me money, time, and energy, so I try to make each purchase a good one.
I have loved and followed you all for years. And to enjoy your thoughtful conversations together is amazing. I am 63 with, as an example, my beloved 1990s 501 jeans and trucker jacket. Cost per wear is probably in the low cents by now. But the real investment value is that these pieces continue to adjust to fit my body as it changes. And these have been favorites for decades that I have worn to so many memorable occasions. They always fit my intrinsic style. Then add in the Converse sneakers, the LLBean puffer coat, the Madewell utility jacket. New things can’t touch my attachment to these classic but so cool pieces. Buy what you love. Really, really f’ing love. Wait and wait to make sure. Then go for it. Enjoy it forever. Nothing in our closets will be cooler than that.❤
Honestly when 10 to 30 people stop me and said "I like your outfit or shoe,top,jacket, ect." Then I feel that outfit or a piece of clothing was worth the investment!
I always think of my Patagonia items as an investment piece. And that is largely because I live in a cold place and most of their items are eligible for free lifetime repairs. I ripped a hole in my rain jacket last spring and got it back patched up about 6 weeks after taking it into the store. Any item where the company offers repairs rather than replacements is generally a good option for me.
For me,I find that because I don’t have a ton of creative outlets or hobbies, searching/researching/scrolling for new things to buy/“investment pieces” fills that void,I’m now trying to change that so that I’m not placing all my worth and time in things. The connection between materialism and loneliness was very interesting to hear about.
To me an investment piece is an item that will still look good when worn, used, and mended (my grandmother has a corduroy jacket that she has mended and embroidered, she bought it in the early 70s and still wears it a lot today)
One can create an investment piece... via tailoring! Could you do an episode on tailoring? What can/can't be adjusted, how to find a tailor, what to expect from a tailor, etc. Thanks!
I suppose jewelry, especially gold could be investment pieces, if we are talking money wise. But when it come to clothing it’s like you guys said, things that you love, wear a lot, and it lasts a long time because of quality and care. I am willing to invest in really good , comfortable shoes, because that makes my days better if I am not in pain.
I don’t use the word “investment piece” for the reasons already pointed out (even though it doesn’t always have to mean cash return, I feel the word has gotten much too convoluted with “buying something expensive” in today’s consumer culture!) but sometimes certain items make me feel “OK I’m invested in this piece to keep using it long term”; as in, I’m willing to spend my own resources (money and/or my effort & energy) on something in order to get my future benefit/joy out of using it. But no matter how much I like any clothing item, I have a physical job/lifestyle and my clothes get dirty/damaged fairly quickly (helloooo threadbare inner thighs every year); so even with constant repairs I have to think of my clothes items as eventual consumables. So for me, more repairable & durable accessory items such as heavy-duty leather bags, traditional Goodyear welted shoes, and watches are the only items that have actually made it through the years as my long-term “investment” pieces.
When I hear “investment piece,” I think of a high quality crewneck cashmere sweater, a classic belted camel coat, or a leather bag in a classic shape made by a skilled craftsperson-wardrobe items that are expensive but will last a lifetime if cared for, and will never go out of style. While they May depreciate slightly from the purchase price, the point to me is you can buy them once and will seldom or never need to replace them.
Great topic and discussion today! The loneliness link to shopping etc stat is interesting because shopping is linked to so many other struggles, boredom-stress-feelings of inadequacy-comparing oneself to others etc An investment of any kind be-it clothing, footwear, handbags, jewelry should require us to be thoughtful of the path to purchase and when we make the leap, it should bring us long lasting satisfaction- case in point- Alyssa’s dream bag ❤
loneliness and boredom go hand in hand. Feeling bored, feeling lonely - they are interchangeable. If you are floating around and doom scrolling daily then you are probably not using your time in the best way. And I'm of course also guilty of that!
I am under the impression that a lot of people - not all - use „oh this is an investment piece“ to justify towards themselves why they spend a sh** lot of money on a piece that they actually don‘t really need. But as it is an „investment piece“ or a „classic“ or a „everyone needs a…“ fill in the blank, trenchcoat, LBD ect. and „you will use it for years“ it is somewhat ok. My thoughts: even the „classics“ change with the trends and the super oversized trench from 2021/2022 will maybe seem to be huge and dated on you once your eyes get more used to the more fitted/cinched in ones that are up and coming. So are you really really really wearing that thing for the next years and years to come and enjoy it? Or are you just fooling yourself? And in case of yes, you are fooling yourself: why would you do that? You want that thing for the sake of wanting it. It’s fine. You probably worked hard for that money. You are probably an adult. Your mom doesn’t need to know the price tag 🤫😅
I can’t get enough of the three of you and the conversations around fashion and the contents of our closets. You have inspired me to make wiser choices in regards to my clothing. An idea for a future episode that I think would be fun is… How does the way we choose to dress/style/colour translate/relate to to the way we decorate our homes.🤔 Thanks for considering this topic!
Other than people who have capsule wardrobes, does anyone have a low cost per wear? I’ll just say, despite the fact that I’m guilty of over consuming , I am listening to all your podcasts because I’m hoping it rubs off on me. Your last podcast about using what I have did motivate me to walk away from my real real cart so it is working! Good work ladies. Thank you
My fave investment pieces are those that are high quality in construction and materials but also make me feel amazing when I wear them for any occasion. My Loewe flamenco bag (secondhand) and Anine Bing Sydney sweater come to mind.
If I'm excited to wear an item for years on end, it's an investment. Interestingly, most of my "investments" consist of items I've thrifted as opposed to new, fresh off the sales floor pieces. I'm not sure why this is. Something for me to think about for sure! 🤔
For me as you said, an investment piece will depend on the cost per wear, if you buy something and you wear it a lot you will have your ROI but if you buy something and you do not wear at all, you will never get back what you pay for it because you will never charge the same price and no one will pay for it either. It does not matter if it is a channel bag. That's my point of you. Thanks for all the info you share with us.
I usually think of an investment piece as something expensive. But I love the point made in this podcast that it doesn’t have to be. Ever since watching all of you & your videos, I look at everything as an investment piece. I’ve had some items in my closet for 10+ years and when those jeans come back into style, I’ll be ready! 😂
Exactly. I still wear my skinny jeans, even if the fashion world and gen Z have said they are over. I live in a colder climate and basically they work best with boots...and I still love a blazer skinny jeans combo! So whatever to trends. I'm now a millennial laughing at all those baggy jeans that have come back around that looked terrible in the 90s and still look terrible now. P.S. Sorry Christina, I know you love that look! :)
Hi ladies! 👋 I love looking at clothes and trying them on...lol However if I see an item that I love, or need I usually take sometime before I nail the purchase.
I definitely believe that certain clothing pieces are "investments", not only in money but in time. I ponied up for Frye harness boots a few years back because I realized I needed good quality shoes for my foot problems. They took a while to break in so spending the money to resole or fix heels has been worth it. I also have an Hermes scarf from the 1980's that I wore a lot to work back in the day. Then I didn't wear it for the longest time because it was too dressy or conservative. Now I've started wearing it again in a more creative way and it's precious because I've had it for so long. Btw, my mom bought it for me duty free for $35!
I watched an IG story of a woman at a luxury bag auction who learned that apparently only Hermès bags don't depreciate - every other kind does, even if less than other kinds of fashion. I thought that was weird and super interesting - like Hermès is on some whole other level apparently 🤷🏼♀️ but still not an investment I'm interested in lol (or can afford!)
A little late... but to me 'investment' clothes are buying something that I know will get years of use, not with the intention of appreciating in value. The first thing that comes to my mind are my timberland boots that I took a leap of faith, went a little out of my budget at the time and bought on sale and am now going on 13 years of wear and just got the soles fixed to keep them going even longer. Their price per wear has to be down to pennies by now, they are absolute work horses. Alternatively, I have a pair of beautiful black patent Prada boots that still have a very high cost per wear because they aren't in my regular rotation, BUT I bought them knowing that all of their style elements are such that they transcend minor shifts in my style, they're super comfortable, and I've had them for about 5 years now and I keep going back to them to hit a specific look I'm going for in an outfit. I don't plan to ever get rid of them.
Enjoyed hearing your different takes on “investment” pieces. I’m currently auditing a class on Coursera “TheScience of Well Being “ taught at Yale by Dr. Laurie Santos. It is the school’s most popular class. She points out that our brains are wired such that stuff quickly becomes passe and we always want something new! Experiences tend to give us much more long term happiness. But if that new coat gives you joy each time you wear it, then that is an investment in your happiness. At least that is my interpretation! Always learn something new and worthwhile from you ladies!🥰
To me an investment piece is a well-constructed item that will be worn regularly. Well made, well fitting shoes, or a winter coat that will last several seasons are worth spending more on than for example, a summer dress that I will wear only three months a year.
Well, investment pieces are something I have tried to do for the past few years. And in all aspects - material, cut, color - so that I can wear them and love them for many years to come getting their cost per wear to an absolute minimum. That's kind of how I see it. Thank you ladies for another great one and please keep going, I love this podcast of yours.
I learned that I think designer bags are worth the money. I usually buy used or at an outlet mall where it's cheaper. I used to love spending money on cheap bags but the stitching would come up on the inside. I found that now that I own good quality bags I shop for them way less frequently. I still own my 1st Coach bag. I usually pull it out in the winter because I like bigger bags in the winter to out scarves and gloves in.
How can one love an episode even more than the previous ones??? Well, I’m astonished by this conversation! Owning what you are, your essence, can realy help you make the best decisions for the right reasons. This allows you to narrow down the choices, because you will know what pieces are in fact, an investment in yourself, in your nature. The best!! Thank you all so much! ❤
An 'investment' piece for me is really those high cost items you know you will have a lifetime. Like a leather jacket (the style will come and go but it will come in again) or a good pair of leather boots. If you can resole them, then you have them forever. But if you are buying investment pieces every week then that problematic. I also feel like you are 'investing' in yourself. You are investing in your style and in your self-confidence. So that would be another perspective for me. But this is outside of frivolous shopping. I know that some items I own or have owned, just bring me so much joy. Yes that sounds materialistic but it's a feeling that also relates to positive experiences I've had when wearing those items :) Of course this leans into nostalgia, but in terms of investment, as you said, if it only costs $4 and you wear it everyday and love it, then that is a good investment.
About 15 years ago, my life totally changed. I came ‘into money’. I retired. I moved north from a very hot climate to 4 real seasons. My job had been working with children and my clothes were always getting pretty dirty and washed a lot. All I could afford was used clothing and had to be careful with spending at that. When I retired, there I was with a wardrobe of ratty, ill-fitting clothes. At the time, I went out and started creating a new wardrobe. I didn’t plan, I didn’t have an overall concept, I barely knew how I would be spending my time going forward. (Let me tell you, you can be very busy in retirement)! I feel like only recently that I have been putting many of these ideas together and understanding how I want to dress and how I want to spend money on clothes. It is actually a fun journey but, too, there are all the old nagging thoughts that I ‘shouldn’t’ spend on casual clothes or whatever similar nagging thoughts we have. It is important to be ok with spending and we should love our wardrobe and our options. Thanks.
If I have to identify an investment piece, it would be a beautiful wool or cashmere coat. As someone with a modest clothing budget, investment refers to how easy is it to take care of and what can happen to the piece when I'm ready to pass it on or have to trash it. Ultimately, my investment is in natural fibers. It hits all the notes for me; wears well,feels luxurious and won't be around for hundreds of years in a dump.
To me an investment piece is a staple that is so well made that it will last a long time without having to spend money on replacements. Examples to mind are good underwear and basic t-shirts that don't get destroyed with a couple of washes. A solid pair of jeans, a winter coat, good shoes...
I think most people agree that buying in bulk, be it food, office supplies , etc…for a better price, as long as we eat all the food or use all the office supplies is saving us money. Cost per wear, if we are wearing it, makes it cost effective . I think it accurate to say that buying quality clothes that you wear for years does give financial benefits over cheap cloths that fade fast, lose there shape quickly then fill our trash dumps all over the world just to have to buy more. Just my thought.
Thank you once again for a fantastic thought provoking episode. I have used the term 'Investment piece' but often after I've brought and had a successful purchase for a period of time, not as a 'this is an investment piece' as I buy it. The main thing that come to mind for me are my Mulberry handbag (Hobo, Daria), Yes It was an expensive item I brought 7 years ago after getting fed up with buying fast fashion handbags that went out of fashion and fell apart. I brought in the sale after 2 years of saving/deciding and now cost per wear is better than some of my 'cheaper' purchases. It was and still is totally me my style and meets my needs, I use it as an every day bag and it still looks amazing. However I could have bought a cheaper one. I still love it because I chose a bag that I knew would suite my lifestyle for as long as I could imagine. I went down to one hand bag, one back pack and one work bag. I do have a couple more cheaper bags now, a black across body bag as I found this was something I thought would support some additional needs for when I travel and a smaller clutch/ posh bag for weddings and occasions. (I sold all my other bags so I just have what I need/ love). However my days of buying bags every season are well over and I love that I did that and I would consider it an investment piece now because the bags selling secondhand are now more than I paid for mine... however I couldn't predict that so I wouldn't consider it an investment piece when I brought it. purchases I have so many summer items that make no sense but I love them. (My other good investment pieces now I've reflected are a Pair of steel tow DM's for work, A pair of Acai outdoor trousers, that I ware for any occasions from gardening, sport, work through to going out! and a Recycled waterproof mac/coat. Because they work for me and my life. Mellissa I see the joy in your face every time you do a video with the Puzzle bag, that shows me how it should be when something works for you.
To me, an investment is a piece I’ve taken the time and money to customize to my body. I’ve thrifted so many pieces that I’ve then taken to my tailor to tweak the measurements (usually the waist or the hem). It’s worth it to me to “invest” in the price of the alterations (which is sometimes WAY more than I paid for the piece itself) so that I will be likelier to wear it again and again. Same goes for pieces that I can ask to have made to my measurements, like things on Etsy.
For me clothing items are not investment. They are like watercolor paint tubes. I use them to paint and to mix colors. They will be used but the value is in the process of creating. I pay more to have really good jewelry. A pair of 18k hoop earrings in the size that I can wear often is an investment. If I could only have one black bag I’d get a 28 or 32 Hermes Kelly. I’d say I like functional investment, not showroom pieces.
Investment clothing to me just means clothes that can be worn for an extended period of time and have a low cost per wear. And also require a certain investment of effort in their care to make sure they can be used to their full lifespan. My max Mara coats, fendi peek a boo bag, and Celine bag were expensive, but their cost per wear is lower than many pieces in my wardrobe that were a fraction of the price!
I think the term is a bit of a scam. Going to Paris and Rome this Fall and seeing the plethora of “luxury” shops everywhere including at the airports and seeing everyone on the commuter train wearing certain types of identifiable brands makes me realize that in fact they are not really exclusive. They are massed produced too. Then seeing line ups at those stores ( but not at airport shops) to give them your money, I see the nuttiness. I mean, get them if you want to, but don’t kid yourself that you are accumulating a vast future financial dynasty for yourself.
wow. That was great content. I look at an investment piece as something that I have been coveting with good quality and versatility. My example is Nili Lotan Diane Diane wool blazer. It gives me confidence and great pleasure when I wear it. It was North of $900 US and couldn't find it second hand so I bought it new. As far as the "investment" it's pure pleasure in myself for an item that I worked very hard for and don't expect any sort of profit from if I was to sell it. Thanks again for the thoughtful content as always.
Yes it is an investment, normally when you redeem the cost. And it happens when you buy an expensive piece which means special design, artisan made, beautiful fabric, ...You will wear it for years and always will look amazing.
This is such an interesting topic on so many levels. Looking at my own wardrobe and the choices I have made over the years, it is clear to me that the backbone, if you will of hero pieces, are in many cases over 10 or 20 years old. These are generally items that at the time I spent more money on and as a result, have looked after and kept whilst the more frivolous purchases have cycled in and out. Have I made money on items, I suppose if you look at cost per wear and in some cases the selling price then maybe, but that to me is not the central issue. To me the crux of your question is personal enjoyment as clothing is an extension of our selves and our wants and desires. In that regard then yes, my clothing is an investment in me and I am worth the investment 😊.
I have been buying gold and silver second hand and investing in my jewelry collection. I feel like it a good investment because the cost of new gold and silver has such markups and second hand I can find it at a more affordable prices.I feel like it has value not only the intrinsic value of the metals but as jewelry it will always have resale value so if I get sick of a piece I can usually sell it and get a return on my investments plus I got to use it for as long as I loved it. So I don’t feel guilty investing in all the precious metals.😊
Few pieces are an investment! But I think that if you explane what you mean then it is ok. Why not call it slow fashion piece as a opposit of fast fashion prieces?
Is it bad that I’ve cropped a thrifted trench coat and now removing the sleeves from a second trench also thrifted. Both now worn creatively in my wardrobe ie wearing the sleeveless over tracksuits to make them more work appropriate and providing myself a very comfortable (1 of my 3 words) style. I upcycle a lot to make fun unique pieces. Fun or creative is another of my 3 words. I am old and have started building my forever wardrobe all thrifted so far.
Investment peace can be seen from lots of point of views. As someone wrote ( and i remember that from my parents/country) people were always buying gold as investment. because it is not "loosing its value". But if we talk about clothes - I think good investment peace is a peace of good quality, that can be word even with changing body ( which many of us are facing), something we wear and feel every time comfortable and good in it ( even if it is not always feeling of being "amazing"), something we can use for different situations and possibly use for different purposes . I have bought amazing silk dress. feels amazing, but... after every wear dry cleaning, very sensitive, and now after gaining weight even doesn't know if i can wear it. So beautiful peace of clothes but not good as investment peace. Also i think this should be clear, that it is not possible to have only investment peaces in the wardrobe, but it is possible to try to maximize the percentage of them in the closet.
Invest in real, solid gold pieces of jewelry. Save up and buy the good stuff. Invest in the best leather belts, loafers, gloves, boots and purses. Invest in a couple of the most beautiful scarves that make you feel alive when you wear them! Invest in the most gorgeous but classic coat and raincoat/trench. These are the items that will stand the test of time and last 50 years! Think classics.
I’m going to show my age here, but having a career in accounting/bookkeeping, I put clothing purchases in the expense category. I don’t view fashion as a long term investment, because of the facts mentioned that there is little ROI unless the piece is a designer bag or something that can easily be sold. I think of clothing expense as a purchase that is necessary, can be fun or pleasurable, but will ultimately cost me money, time, and energy, so I try to make each purchase a good one.
I have loved and followed you all for years. And to enjoy your thoughtful conversations together is amazing.
I am 63 with, as an example, my beloved 1990s 501 jeans and trucker jacket. Cost per wear is probably in the low cents by now. But the real investment value is that these pieces continue to adjust to fit my body as it changes. And these have been favorites for decades that I have worn to so many memorable occasions. They always fit my intrinsic style. Then add in the Converse sneakers, the LLBean puffer coat, the Madewell utility jacket. New things can’t touch my attachment to these classic but so cool pieces.
Buy what you love. Really, really f’ing love. Wait and wait to make sure. Then go for it. Enjoy it forever. Nothing in our closets will be cooler than that.❤
Honestly when 10 to 30 people stop me and said "I like your outfit or shoe,top,jacket, ect." Then I feel that outfit or a piece of clothing was worth the investment!
That loneliness stats just hit the spot… so true for me
I always think of my Patagonia items as an investment piece. And that is largely because I live in a cold place and most of their items are eligible for free lifetime repairs. I ripped a hole in my rain jacket last spring and got it back patched up about 6 weeks after taking it into the store. Any item where the company offers repairs rather than replacements is generally a good option for me.
For me,I find that because I don’t have a ton of creative outlets or hobbies, searching/researching/scrolling for new things to buy/“investment pieces” fills that void,I’m now trying to change that so that I’m not placing all my worth and time in things. The connection between materialism and loneliness was very interesting to hear about.
To me an investment piece is an item that will still look good when worn, used, and mended (my grandmother has a corduroy jacket that she has mended and embroidered, she bought it in the early 70s and still wears it a lot today)
I love this example.
One can create an investment piece... via tailoring!
Could you do an episode on tailoring? What can/can't be adjusted, how to find a tailor, what to expect from a tailor, etc.
Thanks!
This was my thought exactly! Can’t undersell the value of a trusted tailor
I suppose jewelry, especially gold could be investment pieces, if we are talking money wise. But when it come to clothing it’s like you guys said, things that you love, wear a lot, and it lasts a long time because of quality and care. I am willing to invest in really good , comfortable shoes, because that makes my days better if I am not in pain.
I don’t use the word “investment piece” for the reasons already pointed out (even though it doesn’t always have to mean cash return, I feel the word has gotten much too convoluted with “buying something expensive” in today’s consumer culture!) but sometimes certain items make me feel “OK I’m invested in this piece to keep using it long term”; as in, I’m willing to spend my own resources (money and/or my effort & energy) on something in order to get my future benefit/joy out of using it.
But no matter how much I like any clothing item, I have a physical job/lifestyle and my clothes get dirty/damaged fairly quickly (helloooo threadbare inner thighs every year); so even with constant repairs I have to think of my clothes items as eventual consumables.
So for me, more repairable & durable accessory items such as heavy-duty leather bags, traditional Goodyear welted shoes, and watches are the only items that have actually made it through the years as my long-term “investment” pieces.
When I hear “investment piece,” I think of a high quality crewneck cashmere sweater, a classic belted camel coat, or a leather bag in a classic shape made by a skilled craftsperson-wardrobe items that are expensive but will last a lifetime if cared for, and will never go out of style. While they May depreciate slightly from the purchase price, the point to me is you can buy them once and will seldom or never need to replace them.
Actually, Merino sweaters will last longer.
@@americafirst9144 That's true, cashmere unfortunately wears after time and holes start to appear on elbows, etc :)
@@brontec9769 You, or your tailor, could attach faux seude patches to the elbows. If you put real suede on it could be very expensive to dry clean.
Great topic and discussion today!
The loneliness link to shopping etc stat is interesting because shopping is linked to so many other struggles, boredom-stress-feelings of inadequacy-comparing oneself to others etc
An investment of any kind be-it clothing, footwear, handbags, jewelry should require us to be thoughtful of the path to purchase and when we make the leap, it should bring us long lasting satisfaction- case in point- Alyssa’s dream bag ❤
loneliness and boredom go hand in hand. Feeling bored, feeling lonely - they are interchangeable. If you are floating around and doom scrolling daily then you are probably not using your time in the best way. And I'm of course also guilty of that!
@@brontec9769 boredom is different from loneliness though they can exist simultaneously
I am under the impression that a lot of people - not all - use „oh this is an investment piece“ to justify towards themselves why they spend a sh** lot of money on a piece that they actually don‘t really need. But as it is an „investment piece“ or a „classic“ or a „everyone needs a…“ fill in the blank, trenchcoat, LBD ect. and „you will use it for years“ it is somewhat ok.
My thoughts: even the „classics“ change with the trends and the super oversized trench from 2021/2022 will maybe seem to be huge and dated on you once your eyes get more used to the more fitted/cinched in ones that are up and coming. So are you really really really wearing that thing for the next years and years to come and enjoy it? Or are you just fooling yourself?
And in case of yes, you are fooling yourself: why would you do that? You want that thing for the sake of wanting it. It’s fine. You probably worked hard for that money. You are probably an adult. Your mom doesn’t need to know the price tag 🤫😅
I can’t get enough of the three of you and the conversations around fashion and the contents of our closets. You have inspired me to make wiser choices in regards to my clothing.
An idea for a future episode that I think would be fun is…
How does the way we choose to dress/style/colour translate/relate to to the way we decorate our homes.🤔
Thanks for considering this topic!
You guys hit the nail on the head again and again!
Other than people who have capsule wardrobes, does anyone have a low cost per wear? I’ll just say, despite the fact that I’m guilty of over consuming , I am listening to all your podcasts because I’m hoping it rubs off on me. Your last podcast about using what I have did motivate me to walk away from my real real cart so it is working! Good work ladies. Thank you
My fave investment pieces are those that are high quality in construction and materials but also make me feel amazing when I wear them for any occasion. My Loewe flamenco bag (secondhand) and Anine Bing Sydney sweater come to mind.
If I'm excited to wear an item for years on end, it's an investment. Interestingly, most of my "investments" consist of items I've thrifted as opposed to new, fresh off the sales floor pieces. I'm not sure why this is. Something for me to think about for sure! 🤔
Fantastic and always interesting and insightful, thank you ladies, see you on your individual channels too x
For me as you said, an investment piece will depend on the cost per wear, if you buy something and you wear it a lot you will have your ROI but if you buy something and you do not wear at all, you will never get back what you pay for it because you will never charge the same price and no one will pay for it either. It does not matter if it is a channel bag. That's my point of you. Thanks for all the info you share with us.
I usually think of an investment piece as something expensive. But I love the point made in this podcast that it doesn’t have to be. Ever since watching all of you & your videos, I look at everything as an investment piece. I’ve had some items in my closet for 10+ years and when those jeans come back into style, I’ll be ready! 😂
Exactly. I still wear my skinny jeans, even if the fashion world and gen Z have said they are over. I live in a colder climate and basically they work best with boots...and I still love a blazer skinny jeans combo! So whatever to trends. I'm now a millennial laughing at all those baggy jeans that have come back around that looked terrible in the 90s and still look terrible now. P.S. Sorry Christina, I know you love that look! :)
Hi ladies! 👋 I love looking at clothes and trying them on...lol
However if I see an item that I love, or need I usually take sometime before I nail the purchase.
I definitely believe that certain clothing pieces are "investments", not only in money but in time. I ponied up for Frye harness boots a few years back because I realized I needed good quality shoes for my foot problems. They took a while to break in so spending the money to resole or fix heels has been worth it. I also have an Hermes scarf from the 1980's that I wore a lot to work back in the day. Then I didn't wear it for the longest time because it was too dressy or conservative. Now I've started wearing it again in a more creative way and it's precious because I've had it for so long. Btw, my mom bought it for me duty free for $35!
I watched an IG story of a woman at a luxury bag auction who learned that apparently only Hermès bags don't depreciate - every other kind does, even if less than other kinds of fashion. I thought that was weird and super interesting - like Hermès is on some whole other level apparently 🤷🏼♀️ but still not an investment I'm interested in lol (or can afford!)
Would love for y'all to have Naja Sierra as a guest on the podcast :)
A little late... but to me 'investment' clothes are buying something that I know will get years of use, not with the intention of appreciating in value. The first thing that comes to my mind are my timberland boots that I took a leap of faith, went a little out of my budget at the time and bought on sale and am now going on 13 years of wear and just got the soles fixed to keep them going even longer. Their price per wear has to be down to pennies by now, they are absolute work horses.
Alternatively, I have a pair of beautiful black patent Prada boots that still have a very high cost per wear because they aren't in my regular rotation, BUT I bought them knowing that all of their style elements are such that they transcend minor shifts in my style, they're super comfortable, and I've had them for about 5 years now and I keep going back to them to hit a specific look I'm going for in an outfit. I don't plan to ever get rid of them.
Enjoyed hearing your different takes on “investment” pieces. I’m currently auditing a class on Coursera “TheScience of Well Being “ taught at Yale by Dr. Laurie Santos. It is the school’s most popular class. She points out that our brains are wired such that stuff quickly becomes passe and we always want something new! Experiences tend to give us much more long term happiness. But if that new coat gives you joy each time you wear it, then that is an investment in your happiness. At least that is my interpretation! Always learn something new and worthwhile from you ladies!🥰
To me an investment piece is a well-constructed item that will be worn regularly. Well made, well fitting shoes, or a winter coat that will last several seasons are worth spending more on than for example, a summer dress that I will wear only three months a year.
Well, investment pieces are something I have tried to do for the past few years. And in all aspects - material, cut, color - so that I can wear them and love them for many years to come getting their cost per wear to an absolute minimum. That's kind of how I see it.
Thank you ladies for another great one and please keep going, I love this podcast of yours.
I learned that I think designer bags are worth the money. I usually buy used or at an outlet mall where it's cheaper.
I used to love spending money on cheap bags but the stitching would come up on the inside. I found that now that I own good quality bags I shop for them way less frequently. I still own my 1st Coach bag. I usually pull it out in the winter because I like bigger bags in the winter to out scarves and gloves in.
How can one love an episode even more than the previous ones??? Well, I’m astonished by this conversation! Owning what you are, your essence, can realy help you make the best decisions for the right reasons. This allows you to narrow down the choices, because you will know what pieces are in fact, an investment in yourself, in your nature. The best!! Thank you all so much! ❤
I agree that "investments" can be emotional (not just financial).
What were the books you mentioned in this episode? Are they linked somewhere?
An 'investment' piece for me is really those high cost items you know you will have a lifetime. Like a leather jacket (the style will come and go but it will come in again) or a good pair of leather boots. If you can resole them, then you have them forever. But if you are buying investment pieces every week then that problematic.
I also feel like you are 'investing' in yourself. You are investing in your style and in your self-confidence. So that would be another perspective for me. But this is outside of frivolous shopping. I know that some items I own or have owned, just bring me so much joy. Yes that sounds materialistic but it's a feeling that also relates to positive experiences I've had when wearing those items :) Of course this leans into nostalgia, but in terms of investment, as you said, if it only costs $4 and you wear it everyday and love it, then that is a good investment.
I love this podcast ❤
About 15 years ago, my life totally changed. I came ‘into money’. I retired. I moved north from a very hot climate to 4 real seasons. My job had been working with children and my clothes were always getting pretty dirty and washed a lot. All I could afford was used clothing and had to be careful with spending at that. When I retired, there I was with a wardrobe of ratty, ill-fitting clothes. At the time, I went out and started creating a new wardrobe. I didn’t plan, I didn’t have an overall concept, I barely knew how I would be spending my time going forward. (Let me tell you, you can be very busy in retirement)! I feel like only recently that I have been putting many of these ideas together and understanding how I want to dress and how I want to spend money on clothes. It is actually a fun journey but, too, there are all the old nagging thoughts that I ‘shouldn’t’ spend on casual clothes or whatever similar nagging thoughts we have. It is important to be ok with spending and we should love our wardrobe and our options. Thanks.
If I have to identify an investment piece, it would be a beautiful wool or cashmere coat.
As someone with a modest clothing budget, investment refers to how easy is it to take care of and what can happen to the piece when I'm ready to pass it on or have to trash it. Ultimately, my investment is in natural fibers. It hits all the notes for me; wears well,feels luxurious and won't be around for hundreds of years in a dump.
What (if any) threshold should we aim to for a cost per wear ?
To me an investment piece is a staple that is so well made that it will last a long time without having to spend money on replacements. Examples to mind are good underwear and basic t-shirts that don't get destroyed with a couple of washes. A solid pair of jeans, a winter coat, good shoes...
I think most people agree that buying in bulk, be it food, office supplies , etc…for a better price, as long as we eat all the food or use all the office supplies is saving us money. Cost per wear, if we are wearing it, makes it cost effective . I think it accurate to say that buying quality clothes that you wear for years does give financial benefits over cheap cloths that fade fast, lose there shape quickly then fill our trash dumps all over the world just to have to buy more. Just my thought.
Thank you once again for a fantastic thought provoking episode.
I have used the term 'Investment piece' but often after I've brought and had a successful purchase for a period of time, not as a 'this is an investment piece' as I buy it.
The main thing that come to mind for me are my Mulberry handbag (Hobo, Daria), Yes It was an expensive item I brought 7 years ago after getting fed up with buying fast fashion handbags that went out of fashion and fell apart.
I brought in the sale after 2 years of saving/deciding and now cost per wear is better than some of my 'cheaper' purchases. It was and still is totally me my style and meets my needs, I use it as an every day bag and it still looks amazing. However I could have bought a cheaper one. I still love it because I chose a bag that I knew would suite my lifestyle for as long as I could imagine. I went down to one hand bag, one back pack and one work bag.
I do have a couple more cheaper bags now, a black across body bag as I found this was something I thought would support some additional needs for when I travel and a smaller clutch/ posh bag for weddings and occasions. (I sold all my other bags so I just have what I need/ love).
However my days of buying bags every season are well over and I love that I did that and I would consider it an investment piece now because the bags selling secondhand are now more than I paid for mine... however I couldn't predict that so I wouldn't consider it an investment piece when I brought it.
purchases
I have so many summer items that make no sense but I love them. (My other good investment pieces now I've reflected are a Pair of steel tow DM's for work, A pair of Acai outdoor trousers, that I ware for any occasions from gardening, sport, work through to going out! and a Recycled waterproof mac/coat. Because they work for me and my life.
Mellissa I see the joy in your face every time you do a video with the Puzzle bag, that shows me how it should be when something works for you.
To me, an investment is a piece I’ve taken the time and money to customize to my body. I’ve thrifted so many pieces that I’ve then taken to my tailor to tweak the measurements (usually the waist or the hem). It’s worth it to me to “invest” in the price of the alterations (which is sometimes WAY more than I paid for the piece itself) so that I will be likelier to wear it again and again. Same goes for pieces that I can ask to have made to my measurements, like things on Etsy.
I love this podcast! ❤
I wish someone would talk about me the way Alyssa talks about Loewe puzzle bag 😂
For me clothing items are not investment. They are like watercolor paint tubes. I use them to paint and to mix colors. They will be used but the value is in the process of creating.
I pay more to have really good jewelry. A pair of 18k hoop earrings in the size that I can wear often is an investment. If I could only have one black bag I’d get a 28 or 32 Hermes Kelly. I’d say I like functional investment, not showroom pieces.
Investment clothing to me just means clothes that can be worn for an extended period of time and have a low cost per wear. And also require a certain investment of effort in their care to make sure they can be used to their full lifespan. My max Mara coats, fendi peek a boo bag, and Celine bag were expensive, but their cost per wear is lower than many pieces in my wardrobe that were a fraction of the price!
I think the term is a bit of a scam. Going to Paris and Rome this Fall and seeing the plethora of “luxury” shops everywhere including at the airports and seeing everyone on the commuter train wearing certain types of identifiable brands makes me realize that in fact they are not really exclusive. They are massed produced too. Then seeing line ups at those stores ( but not at airport shops) to give them your money, I see the nuttiness. I mean, get them if you want to, but don’t kid yourself that you are accumulating a vast future financial dynasty for yourself.
wow. That was great content. I look at an investment piece as something that I have been coveting with good quality and versatility. My example is Nili Lotan Diane Diane wool blazer. It gives me confidence and great pleasure when I wear it. It was North of $900 US and couldn't find it second hand so I bought it new. As far as the "investment" it's pure pleasure in myself for an item that I worked very hard for and don't expect any sort of profit from if I was to sell it. Thanks again for the thoughtful content as always.
Yes it is an investment, normally when you redeem the cost.
And it happens when you buy an expensive piece which means special design, artisan made, beautiful fabric, ...You will wear it for years and always will look amazing.
This is such an interesting topic on so many levels. Looking at my own wardrobe and the choices I have made over the years, it is clear to me that the backbone, if you will of hero pieces, are in many cases over 10 or 20 years old. These are generally items that at the time I spent more money on and as a result, have looked after and kept whilst the more frivolous purchases have cycled in and out. Have I made money on items, I suppose if you look at cost per wear and in some cases the selling price then maybe, but that to me is not the central issue. To me the crux of your question is personal enjoyment as clothing is an extension of our selves and our wants and desires. In that regard then yes, my clothing is an investment in me and I am worth the investment 😊.
I have been buying gold and silver second hand and investing in my jewelry collection. I feel like it a good investment because the cost of new gold and silver has such markups and second hand I can find it at a more affordable prices.I feel like it has value not only the intrinsic value of the metals but as jewelry it will always have resale value so if I get sick of a piece I can usually sell it and get a return on my investments plus I got to use it for as long as I loved it. So I don’t feel guilty investing in all the precious metals.😊
Few pieces are an investment! But I think that if you explane what you mean then it is ok. Why not call it slow fashion piece as a opposit of fast fashion prieces?
Is it bad that I’ve cropped a thrifted trench coat and now removing the sleeves from a second trench also thrifted. Both now worn creatively in my wardrobe ie wearing the sleeveless over tracksuits to make them more work appropriate and providing myself a very comfortable (1 of my 3 words) style. I upcycle a lot to make fun unique pieces. Fun or creative is another of my 3 words. I am old and have started building my forever wardrobe all thrifted so far.
Investment peace can be seen from lots of point of views.
As someone wrote ( and i remember that from my parents/country) people were always buying gold as investment. because it is not "loosing its value".
But if we talk about clothes - I think good investment peace is a peace of good quality, that can be word even with changing body ( which many of us are facing), something we wear and feel every time comfortable and good in it ( even if it is not always feeling of being "amazing"), something we can use for different situations and possibly use for different purposes .
I have bought amazing silk dress. feels amazing, but... after every wear dry cleaning, very sensitive, and now after gaining weight even doesn't know if i can wear it. So beautiful peace of clothes but not good as investment peace.
Also i think this should be clear, that it is not possible to have only investment peaces in the wardrobe, but it is possible to try to maximize the percentage of them in the closet.
Plenty of guys out there doing similar math.
Invest in real, solid gold pieces of jewelry. Save up and buy the good stuff. Invest in the best leather belts, loafers, gloves, boots and purses. Invest in a couple of the most beautiful scarves that make you feel alive when you wear them! Invest in the most gorgeous but classic coat and raincoat/trench. These are the items that will stand the test of time and last 50 years! Think classics.