Burberry Quilted Navy Jacket (Sizing tip: I typically wear a size XS or 0 in jackets, but I went with a size small in this one, as it was a little tight in the shoulders. I tried it on pre-pregnancy, so this tip should still apply to everyone!) More fitted black version here, and my favorite Barbour version here) / Paige Jeans (I’m wearing the maternity version but I love ALL Paige Skyline jeans!) / Joie Booties c/o / J.Crew Striped Tee (Also love this one SO much!) / Louis Vuitton Tote (Buy here, here or here) / Similar Sunglasses
Last year, I purchased my very first “investment piece,” and I have to say: I was nervous about it. You can read about that decision here, but in short, I’m so glad I did it. I use my bag on a daily basis, and there’s a whole lot less stuff in our home as a result of the purchase. In my opinion, no need to buy new purses when you own a LV! So the thing actually saves you money, right? Haha! And like I said in the original post, the tote–as ironic as this is–serves as a reminder to stay on top of consumption, helps me appreciate all that I’ve been blessed with, and encourages me lead a simpler life.
I’ll be as transparent as possible here: a few months ago, I received a department store gift card as part of compensation for big project. And after much consideration, I decided to use it to purchase a navy Burberry quilted jacket: something I’d been lusting over since I was in my early twenties. It took 10 years to finally pull the trigger on it, but I love it. And over my first week with the jacket, I’ve already set aside a ton of stuff that I like but don’t love. Let the donating and selling begin!
(Burberry jacket sizing tip: I typically wear a size XS or 0 in jackets, but I went with a size small in this one, as it was a little tight in the shoulders. I tried it on many, many times pre-pregnancy, so this tip should still apply to everyone!)
Purchasing “investment pieces” has always been a scary thing for me, which is why I’ve only done it twice. But in my old age, I’m starting to realize how great it is, if done responsibly. Going out and casually spending a ton of money on something I simply like isn’t something I’m ever going to do… but investing in something I know I’ll absolutely love for years to come (after careful consideration)? Yes. Because that prevents frivolous spending, lack of appreciation, and clutter problems. Less is more, especially when you’re a City Girl!
So I’d love to hear what you have to say on the matter. Are you for or against investment pieces? Why? And if you’ve ever purchased an investment piece, what was it, and was it a solid decision? Thanks for weighing in!
Outfit details:
Burberry Quilted Navy Jacket (More fitted black version here, and my favorite Barbour version here) / Paige Jeans (I’m wearing the maternity version but I love ALL Paige Skyline jeans!) / Joie Booties c/o / J.Crew Striped Tee (Also love this one SO much!) / Louis Vuitton Tote (Buy here, here or here) / Similar Sunglasses
That’s a gorgeous jacket, Kelly. You won’t regret “investing” in it. I’m a big believer in buying a few “investment pieces” and keeping them forever. You’ve styled the jacket just right, very cool and fresh.
Love your LV bag, I’ve been dreaming of one for ages and I will purchase one at some point, for now I carry a Tory Burch tote which is great! I also LOVE your boots and your jacket, I think investment pieces are a great idea, I so often buy stuff ‘just because’ and then I look at how much I’ve spent and I think ‘if I had saved that money I could buy one really good investment piece’….So, I’ve really started to think before I buy…
I’m a big believer in “quality over quantity” and you choose gorgeous pieces! I’ve been dreaming of that Burberry jacket forever and can’t wait to splurge on my first LV bag!
xoxo,
Katie
chicincarolina.blogspot.com
I couldn’t agree more with you Kelly — investment pieces — when done responsibly can truly save you money. I bought my first pair of investment pumps from LK Bennett when I still worked in finance. I held my breathe throughout the entire checkout process. But now, 7 years later, they still look brand new. It might be time for a $15 resole but thats only because I use them ALL the time.
After that I started buying a lot more investment pieces. I’d say my closet is as least 50% investment pieces at this point and while I thought I would eventually regret one of the purchases, I never have. I use them all the time.
And I think that’s why investment pieces can be so important. They force you to rally think about your needs, your aesthetic, and your lifestyle and to evaluate what single item can serve you the best.
If only I could apply this tactic when I shop at Forever 21!
Xoxo,
Ashley || Sed Bona
I’m still dying for a chanel and have started saving (‘m only about half way there) but I don’t know if I could pull the trigger and spend that much at the end of the day! I love a gorgeous designer piece but I also do like having variety so I’m not someone that could be happy with just one bag for example. On the other hand, there are some investment pieces I do love so… I’m not sure how i feel about it haha! Either way I love your classic jacket!
http://asequinloveaffair.com
I agree 100%! My best investment pieces so far have been for travel. I am obsessed with my Lo & Sons carry on and invested in a high quality rolling carry on as well. They have ben so worth it!
I am a huge believer in investment pieces. I’ve found a few brands/styles that I love and are flattering, and don’t mind spending more money on them because I usually buy classic pieces, and I wear them until they can’t be worn anymore! I’ve had my Burberry jacket since 2005 and it’s still going strong.
When I was in my young 20’s I recognized that certain investment pieces like lovely leather boots are absolutely worth every penny. My first pair are now 8 years old and still going strong whereas cheap, “fast fashion” pieces would have long ago worn out. Certain classic items are just worth it and certain very trendy items just aren’t.
Kelly, I love the idea of an investment bag but am personally not the biggest fan of the LV look, can you recommend some other large totes/purses that you would consider just as glam, lovely, and high quality? thanks!
Kelly! I have this Burberry jacket in black and wear it ALL. THE. TIME. Such a great investment and the quality is hard to beat. Now you’ve made me want the navy…sigh! Hope you’re feeling okay – you look adorable!
While I haven’t made a big purchase yet on a handbag or the like, I have started buying higher quality sunglasses and they make such a difference! I love wearing them and feel so good when I do because I know I made an investment into them. I appreciate something more that I’ve saved up for such a long time!
-Maggie http://www.thatgirlmags.com
I’ve been eyeing the LV bag & the Burberry jacket in black. I know they would last forever and are classic but I just can’t bring myself to pull the trigger. I’m hoping I can find the Burberry jacket on sale eventually as some friends have told me they bought theirs on sale.
I believe in quality pieces but am hesitant to spend that much money on “investment” pieces. Take into account that one’s tastes, priorities, and size might change over time. I found it true with me that what I used to enjoy a couple of years ago now ends up in a trash can. Also, everyone’s idea of an “investment” price threshold is different based on their income and priorities in life. It is funny but I went to one of the local Burberry stores and tried this jacket on. Even though, I loved the impeccable styling, I do not see myself spending this much money for an item. Then again, I am not rich and have to work for living.