Everyone has a favorite piece that they cannot live without. Whether that’s a beat up pair of jeans that you bought five years ago that have great quality or a dainty necklace that elevates any outfit look, there’s no doubt that we all enjoy a few items in our wardrobe more than others. Our team has gathered up our top high quality pieces that we have come to adore throughout the year, in hope to share with our audience.
When speaking of high quality, there’s a misconception that refers to the high price of these items. Of course, we, as a collective, have come accustomed to believing that we have to spend an arm and a leg to receive the best quality. Due to luxury brands' advertisements, we associate great quality with a greater price. However, once you understand your necessities as a buyer and become more educated in the fashion realm, you’ll start to be able to comprehend everything from the touch of a fabric to the way the clothes hang on you.
We've compiled an assortment of styles and textures made from affordable yet high-quality materials that are sure to offer you the perfect balance of style, comfort, and longevity.
Finding the perfect pair of pants can feel like an impossible equation. How do you combine quality, fit, and affordability? A well-constructed pair of pants should offer both style and functionality, but long lasting wear is the most important quality a pair of pants can have. Fabrics like cotton blends, wool, and Tencel offer durability and breathability while ensuring comfort. Look for high-waisted silhouettes that provide a flattering fit made with blends of cotton and elastane. Plenty of brands offer structured, chic cigarette pants and long, wide-legged trousers with sustainable materials like Tencel that offers a silky feel and mimic luxury brand silk for a price that won't break your bank. Pants with elastic waistbands and stretch panels made from elastane and cotton blends add extra layers of ease and adjustability for increased wearability. Wool and polyester combinations are another option, providing warmth without the bulk and offering a professional look at a fraction of the cost.
Tops are an everyday essential that has branched out in various categories. If you’re leaning more towards a casual presence in your outfit, there’s a basic white tee or a button up that can create a simple look in a compelling manner. White tees are a dime a dozen, but it can be difficult to find high-quality ones that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. When you're looking for affordable, high-quality tops, material is everything. Soft, natural fabrics like linen and cotton are the best with a luxurious feel and a staple in fabrics. The same can go for sweaters, which can easily snag and rip if the fabric has a cheap, thin feel to it. Cashmere offers warmth with flexibility and durability, making it stronger against tearing. Wool blends are another great fabric for high-quality sweaters, especially for colder temperatures. Look for sweaters that are stylish but will stand the test of time
High-quality, affordable jewelry doesn’t have to come branded with a luxury tag. Some of the best finds are hidden away in small boutiques online and sold in department stores, if you know where to look. Big, chunky jewelry can give an outfit a maximalist finish while daintier accessories highlight the trending minimalist style that serves as a more timeless look. Either style, they all have one thing in common when it comes to high-quality pieces: non-tarnishing materials. Look for materials like gold-fill, sterling silver, or stainless steel that resist tarnish and wear, keeping your pieces radiant without the worry of corruption. Gold-filled or gold vermeil pieces have a thick layer of real gold over a base metal and provide durability without rapid tarnish. Sterling silver is another great option if its properly cared for while stainless steel is extremely resistant to chipping, resisting both tarnish and wear. Avoid cheap alloys or plated jewelry with thin coatings that are more prone to wear and tear.
From lifestyle to activewear, everyone wants shoes that give great cushion and sturdiness, which means looking beyond trends and focusing on quality materials. For sneakers, look for brands that emphasize high-grade canvas with strong stitching to prevent early wear and rubber outsoles that have strong traction for longevity. If you're more of a heel person, a sturdy sole is your best friends. Heels are notoriously uncomfortable, so you also want ones with a cushioned insole to ensure comfort and durability. Look for materials like leather or suede that age beautifully rather than synthetic alternatives that peel or crack early. Ankle boots are a great staple for your closet, as well as a good structure for a shoe. Opt for boots with a well-constructed sole that is stitched rather than glued to withstand everyday wear and tear. You'll also want to look at waterproof options in case of unexpected snow or rain that may cause scuffs or other damage.
