Although many designer fashion brands excel in a variety of categories, the fact of the matter is that most are best known for certain key items. Similarly, some brands specialize in specific areas more than others. Sometimes this stems from the heritage of the fashion house and what it was producing from the start; other times, it’s because the brand has an It item in a particular category, season after season. In other cases, the must-have piece is a classic that has become an investment-worthy staple.
With 11 years as a Who What Wear fashion editor under my belt—and a personal affinity for luxury shopping—I’ve learned a thing or two about what to buy from the major designer brands, and I love putting that knowledge to good use. Below, I’m highlighting the one item category to shop for from each of these popular brands, along with a few other standout categories for each. So, whether you’re new to luxury shopping or looking to dive deeper, I think you’ll find this roundup useful.
Without further ado, keep scrolling to discover (and shop) the most important item from the 13 luxury brands everyone wants in their closets.
Despite being practically devoid of logos, as soon as a new The Row arrival hits the shelves, it’s sold out. People consider its pieces an investment, and the brand has started more trends than one could count. Its bags are especially coveted, and the high quality and timelessness of each style make them worthy of that aforementioned investment purchase.
The Most Coveted Bags: Margaux, Marlo, 90’s, India, Half Moon
Other The Row Standouts: Shoes, basics
Shop The Row Bags
Alaïa’s Mary Jane Ballet Flats launched a million copycats, but none live up to the original. The brand continues to release It shoe after It shoe, each met with breathless anticipation. Whenever I see someone wearing a pair of Alaïa flats, I instantly identify them as a fashion person.
The Most Coveted Flats: Mary Jane Ballet Flats, Criss Cross Ballet Flats, Perforated Ballet Flats, Le Coeur Flats, Fishnet Mules
Other Alaïa Standouts: Unique bags, dresses
Shop Alaïa Flats
I think it’s safe to say that everything Miu Miu makes is highly coveted, but if I had to narrow it down to just one thing to buy, it would be its knitwear. It’s quirky yet completely wearable, and a Miu Miu knit will *make* any outfit it’s a part of.
The Most Coveted Knits: Layered Polo Shirts, Striped Polo Shirts, Cashmere Argyle Sweater, Cashmere Cardigan
Other Miu Miu Standouts: Hats, sandals, casual bags, miniskirts
Shop Miu Miu Knits
