THE COVID ERA has significantly altered the way some women shop—rendering trendy fashion out and timeless clothing in. In its Spring 2021 press presentation last November, retail site Net-a-Porter reported that, based on its sales data, customers were drifting away from faddish seasonal pieces and toward luxury classics, like eternally chic Saint Laurent blazers and sleek-but-relaxed pants from the Row. Key factors: All the time we’re spending at home (there’s no point trying to impress a cat with zeitgeisty trendiness) and a heightened awareness of how “in one season, out the next” clothing creates waste.
All this is driving women to invest in heirloom-quality clothing that will last not just for a few years, but for the next generation. Below, three forward-looking style insiders share recent purchases that they hope to wear again and again—and then pass down to their children.
Suzanne McFayden
55, Writer and philanthropist, Austin
The Investment: A blooming Christopher John Rogers dress, approx. $2,675
The Long-Term Plan: I’m originally from Kingston, Jamaica, so I’m used to lots of color. I love that when I put this dress on I feel like a flower. I also like to shop from emerging designers and Black designers when I can. This has a silhouette that I feel I could wear 10 or 20 years from now. And I have two daughters, 23 and 19; they’re always raiding my closet and it’s nice that we can share a love of fashion. I think everyone wants to see the next generation doing something with what was there before.
