To label clothes as an investment might sound odd to some people, but allow us to explain what we mean. As per the definition of the word “investment”, an investment is something where you pay either money, time or energy on something that can at a later date yield a reward. We think that can be applied to clothes as well, as you save time, energy and money by purchasing, or investing in clothes that stand the test of time, through both durability and trends. Price per use is talked about by many, and if the garments you invest in maintain a high level of quality then the price of the purchase will be a distant memory. In this article we will list 20 garments that we think qualify as timeless and long-term investments.

Trench Coat

A classic trench coat doesn’t have to just be worn during autumn, but it can be worn during many more seasons without it looking like your clothes are to warming. As soon as the rain arrives, you can always be assured that a trench coat will keep you dry. We believe that the colour beige is the most timeless and given colour for the trench coat.

Selvedge Jeans

Japan produces some of the best jeans in the world, and this is our opinion based on two things. The first is that Japan as a country prizes durable quality and have a long craftsmanship tradition which no other country can compare themselves to. Japan never does a job half-done, simply said. Secondly, after the Second World War, Japan managed to get some old, American looms that the jeans from the Gold Rush were made on. These looms are now found almost exclusively in Japan where the selvedge fabric is woven with the same historical method.

Loafers

Regardless of whether you chose a pair of penny or tassel loafers, we can almost guarantee you that you will be pleased with your purchase. Loafers are very traditional shoes and have a variety of different uses, and they combine just as well with a pair of jeans as they do when paired with a suit. Choose a pair in the colour that you use the most. And remember: there is no right or wrong when it comes to colour or the use of the shoe.

Unstructured Blazer

Unstructured blazer means that all the things that make the blazer a very formal garment have been removed. We believe that this blazer deserves a place at the table when we are talking about long-term, durable garments, because you can wear it together with wool trousers and a shirt, or more casually with a t-shirt and jeans.

Suede Jacket

A good suede jacket can last a lifetime if you look after it well. It can be worn both during early autumn and in spring. Choose a simple design that doesn’t stand out from the crowd too much, and in a colour that works with the garments in your wardrobe. The Zip Blouson design from Valstar ticks all the boxes, and is something that you will be grateful for life that you invested in one.

White Sneakers

Owning a pair of white sneakers is similar to owning a vacuum cleaner, it’s something you have to have. Even if it sounds like a low comparison, white sneakers are something that works with everything, and in almost all situations. Wear them with your favourite jeans, chinos or perhaps with a suit.

Chinos

It doesn’t matter if you like chinos or not. Chinos should, in our opinion, be in every man’s wardrobe because they can be worn in many ways. When it comes to colour, it is only you and your existing clothes that decide. We have chosen a pair in a dark blue which combine with most garments on this list.

Overcoat

An overcoat is perhaps one of the most all-round garments that you can own during autumn and winter, because it can lift any outfit. This allows you to even look good wearing sweatpants and a t-shirt when you’re out buying milk. Many men have confidence in their overcoat when the colder temperatures emerge.

Casual Shirt

A casual or relaxed shirt can be worn in many combinations. A light blue model with a button down collar is perfect for both the office and a meal out in town. Wear it together with some chinos or jeans, or perhaps together with a stylish blazer.

Derby Shoe

A pair of embossed brogue patterned Derby shoes made from black leather with a durable Vibram outsole. These are the ultimate choice for those who find it hard to leave their favourite boots once they reach spring. They have enough grip to manage with snow and rain, but at the same time they aren’t as high and warm as a pair of boots.

Cabin Bag

A stylish and durable cabin bag can make the journey to the destination even easier and better, and makes the packing process a more fun process. If the cabin bag is made from aluminium then it will be easy to carry with you, and over time the cabin bag with get a nice patina.

White T-shirt

Similar to a pair of white sneakers, the white t-shirt is one of the most well-known garments in this list. Make sure you carefully choose one, as there are a lot of white t-shirts on the market that will fall to pieces after a few washes. This white t-shirt might cost more than the average, but it will hold its form and is therefore also very durable.

Leather Belt

A black, braided leather belt can never be a bad choice. Other than the belt doing the job that it is intended to do, the black colour combines with the majority of colours. A plus is if you wear black shoes.

Sunglasses

A pair of handmade sunglasses don’t just make it better when the sun emerges, but they are very durable. Investing in quality products makes using them even more of an occasion. We have chosen a grey pair, transparent toned glass that can combine well with most garments.

Card Holder

Even though many people have their debit or credit cards in their phones now, there is a way to store one’s physical bank cards in a functional and fine way. We have chosen one made from leather which will, over time develop a nice patina.

Sweatshirt

A cotton sweatshirt can be worn both at work and at home. Loopback cotton is extra soft and comfortable to wear. When it comes to colour, one should choose a colour that works with the garments already in the wardrobe. However, if it’s majority black, then a light grey is always a great choice.

Chukka Boots

There is no shoe more adaptable than a pair of brown suede chukka boots. They are sufficiently warm for autumn and mild winter days, but are also breathable enough to wear in spring and sometimes during the summer months. We have chosen a pair of handmade chukka boots which are very durable if you look after them well.

Wool Trousers

A pair of dark grey wool trousers are very adaptable, and are also very comfortable to wear during long days. When the autumn emerges from the summer, you can find your wool trousers and wear them all the way through to spring.

Fragrance

Having a signature fragrance that your friends and family associate with you is always great. An Oud fragrance, which is a part of the oriental fragrance family, is nearly always a safe bet.

Briefcase

The most elegant way to carry your laptop and documents with you to work is by using a leather briefcase. We have chosen a stylish black, embossed leather briefcase that is worth every euro.