5 Wardrobe Basics for Women That Are Worth Investing In

Advertiser Disclosure ▾

This page contains affiliate links from which we receive a compensation. Like many publications Wise Bread is supported by affiliate commission from partner companies whose products appear on our site. This may influence which products we write about and the location and order in which products appear. We aren't able to cover every product in the marketplace.

Wise Bread Picks

• Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Cash Back Credit Cards
• 0% Balance Transfer Credit Cards

I am not the most clothing-minded individual. I enjoy dressing up and looking nice, but buying new clothing makes me grind my teeth. Everything seems so expensive! Perhaps unsurprisingly, I'm a big proponent of thrift-store shopping and clothing swaps (as well as hand-me-ups, which is what I call the cast-off clothing my younger sister gives me).

However, there are a few wardrobe items that I think are worth more of an investment, because spending more money means you'll end up with a substantiallly more comfortable, flattering, or long-lasting garment. I'm not suggesting that you drop outlandish amounts of cash; many of the the items on my list can still be found for substantial discounts at places like Overstock or T.J. Maxx. But when you're shopping for the following five things, it will serve you well to consider quality and fit above cost. (See also: 6 Work Wardrobe Staples to Invest In, via Currency)

1. Shoes

Shoes are one of my biggest splurges. There are many reasons why expensive shoes are worth the indulgence, (Chris lists several in his Case for Expensive Shoes), but my big two are comfort and longevity. In my experience, it's much more likely that cheap shoes will cut into my feet, cause blisters, and generally provide poor support. Furthermore, well-made shoes can last several seasons as long as you show them some TLC. Have a cobbler fix any rubbed-down heels or soles before the shoes become unwearable (I find that once a year is usually enough, and I tend to drag my heels).

2. Handbags

Like shoes, a well-made bag can continue looking posh for several seasons, and it's much less likely to suffer from ripped straps, broken hardware, and fussy zippers. Don't go all out for a bag that's made to get dirty — a cheap canvas tote does just fine for the beach — but a stylish clutch in a color that matches a lot of your going-out wear should serve you well for quite some time.

3. Coats

A good-quality coat can last for several seasons, as long as you don't purchase anything too trendy. Vintage stores can be a great place to find classic wool coats — just check to make sure the lining, buttons, and pockets are all in good condition.

4. A Dress You Love

I have a wedding problem. Every time one comes around, I poke around my closet until finally settling on the same meh cotton dress that I wore to the last three weddings I attended. I look fine in it, and it's dressy enough for most celebrations. But I don't feel wildly attractive or fancy in it, and even though I'm not the girliest person ever, I do think every woman should own a dress (or similar fancy outfit) that she loves. Whether it's the "little black dress" or a bright-red stunner, this should be something that looks great on you and you can always count on when you need to look awesome. If you can dress it up or down, even better.

5. Good Jeans

I don't care if you think your butt is weird, you don't like your thighs, or you feel like your inseam is outlandish. There are so many companies making different cuts of jeans now, you should be able to find a pair that fits and flatters you. Like other items on this list, properly cared for jeans can last for years. That said, don't think this is an excuse to pay $300 for jeans. There's a difference between paying for quality and paying for a brand name.

What other wardrobe staples are worth investing in? Share in the comments!