The Best Style Investments For Your 20s, 30s & 40s
What you wear in your 20s might look quite different to your 30s and 40s, but for every life stage, we have a handful of hero pieces we swear by. So we turned to our team of stylish writers and editors, who span a range of decades, to find out the fashion investment pieces they’re loving in their current life stage…
20’s
“If you invest in a timeless, everyday bag that transcends micro-trends, it will remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. I’ve had this one from Arket for a few years now, and it’s one I use all the time because it feels classic.” – Kitty, Social Media Manager & Content Creator
“Basically I find them such a travel hack. I never want to pay for extra baggage, so that means bringing one (maximum two) pairs of shoes. They are extremely comfortable so you can walk in them all day, you can wear them in the evening, and I’ve even hiked mountains in them. Perfect for anyone who likes an active holiday.”
“I think a good pair of gold hoop earrings is always something worth investing in. I particularly love Mejuri’s pieces for reliable real gold jewellery.”
“I recommend investing a denim jumpsuit that flatters your height/ body shape, Its such a staple in my wardrobe and something I’ve worn to work, to dinners and even on dates. I love that you can dress it up or down with heels or some cool sneakers, and it’s such an easy piece to layer in the winter. Such a staple!” – Elle, Senior Venue Partnerships Manager
“I’d recommend investing in a long trench coat. It’s a staple so will get a lot of wear, making it a safer thing to spend a bit more on. I was fortunately given a vintage Aquascutum one by my step mum who found it in a charity shop in perfect condition. However, since wearing one I have realised how necessary it is and added serious sophistication to my wardrobe.” – Imogen, Graphic Designer
“These trousers are a timeless addition to your wardrobe, offering unmatched versatility and longevity. They pair effortlessly with any colour or style, making them a go-to staple throughout your 20s and beyond.”
30’s
“Your 20s are for experimenting with different fashion trends and vibes whereas, for me at least, my 30s have been more about refining my personal style. And one piece I will continue to reach for time and time again is kitten heel boots. For max longevity, opt for leather over suede.” – Natasha, Digital Editor
“A smart work bag. I’m a basic Rains backpack girl for my day to day commute, but have been eyeing up the DeMellier ‘The New York’ bag and the Flattered ‘Lesley Tote Bag Suede Chocolate’.” – Harriet, Head Of Partnerships
“A black dress that can take you from work to drinks to dinner without having to change – because in your 30s, the less effort you have to put in the better. I love this black midi dress that looks perfect for spring.” – Andrea, Contributing Food, Culture & Lifestyle Editor
“I’ve never really lusted after a designer handbag. Clothes are my thing, and I just can’t bring myself to part with £1K or more on a bag. That’s not to say I don’t appreciate a beautiful one when I see it, and Paris-based brand, Polène, makes the most equisatly crafted pieces at more realistic price points. The Numéro Neuf Bag in rich sandalwood brown is firmly at the top of my wish list.” – Astrid, Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor
40’s
“A blazer is a must in my wardrobe. I’m still wearing my mum’s Benetton ones from the ’90s. However, for the most contemporary look, Anine Bing has you covered. Sleek yet relaxed, this is an everyday piece that never fails.” – Ashling, Contributing Style & Interiors Editor
“I’ve always found underwear buying a total faff, up there with jeans and swimsuits as some of the most annoying and unpleasant items to shop for. Badly lit changing rooms, undressing 100 times, guesswork at the sizing. One thing I’ve bought into in my 40s is spending the extra for a personal shopping experience. My last was at Selfridges – the sales team brought every item to me, switched sizing as I needed and recommended styles for my shape. It made the experience SO much more enjoyable and I ended up with items that I adore – and that actually fit!” – Robyn, Managing Director
“If there’s one fashion staple, I swear by in my 40s, it’s a crisp white shirt—because nothing
pulls an outfit together faster. Over a swimsuit on holiday: Effortlessly chic. Tucked into
tailored trousers for work: Instant polish. Paired with jeans and sneakers: Weekend
perfection. You can never have enough. It’s the ultimate pared-down item I own. I love With
Nothing Underneath for their perfectly oversized fit and COS for their stylish tailoring.” – Tamara, Contributing Beauty Editor
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
